The Town with Matthew Belloni

Lucas Shaw, a media and entertainment reporter for Bloomberg, joins to dissect the breakup of Warner Bros. Discovery. They explore the motivations behind the split, and what it means for HBO Max and CNN. Shaw speculates on potential buyers for the spun-off companies, including Netflix’s interest in DC franchises. The discussion touches on the broader challenges of the media landscape, from declining cable markets to the evolving dynamics of streaming and acquisitions, offering insights into the future of major content players.

Join veteran publicist Lewis Kay, co-CEO of Kovert Creative, who represents stars like Jimmy Kimmel and Amy Poehler. He dives into the evolved landscape of celebrity PR, highlighting how social media has transformed press tours. Lewis discusses the blend of traditional and digital media strategies that celebrities must navigate today. He also touches on the authenticity needed in modern PR and its impact on public perception, while providing insights into the upcoming film 'Ballerina' and its marketing dynamics.

John Johnson, a nine-time Tony Award-winning producer, shares insights on his latest production, ‘Good Night and Good Luck.’ He discusses the groundbreaking decision to stream it live on CNN, marking a new era for Broadway. The conversation dives into the financial challenges of theater, the allure of star power, and how celebrity casting impacts ticket sales. Johnson also explores the evolving landscape of Broadway, emphasizing the need for innovation and adaptation in an age influenced by streaming platforms.

Lucas Shaw, a music industry expert at Bloomberg, joins to dissect Taylor Swift's bold move to reclaim her master recordings. They delve into the deal's intricate details and its significance for artist ownership, highlighting how Swift has reshaped the landscape for musicians. Shaw discusses the ripple effects for rising stars like Olivia Rodrigo and Bad Bunny and analyzes the shifting role of record labels. The conversation wraps with a glance at the NBA Finals viewership dynamics, evaluating celebrity influence across different industries.

Join comedian John Mulaney, known for his sharp wit and memorable SNL sketches, as he dives into his experience writing for the SNL 50th Anniversary special. He shares insights on getting creative freedom with his late-night Netflix show and reflects on the evolution of late-night television. Mulaney also reminisces about touring with his family while navigating the unique challenges of comedy in today’s media landscape, sprinkled with humor and nostalgia.

Stand-up comedian Mike Birbiglia, known for his Netflix special 'The Good Life' and podcast 'Working It Out', dives into the evolving world of comedy. He discusses how the landscape has shifted over the last decade, emphasizing the vital role of podcasts and social media in building a fanbase. Mike explores Netflix's transformative impact on stand-up and questions if traditional media still holds sway. He also touches on the importance of long-form storytelling and the current Oscar buzz surrounding films from the Cannes Film Festival.

Seth Rogen, a versatile actor and co-founder of Point Grey Pictures, joins forces with collaborator Evan Goldberg to dive into the wild world of Hollywood. They discuss their unconventional decision to choose Netflix's Ted Sarandos over Tim Cook for a cameo and the frantic pitch to Ice Cube. Filming in a real Las Vegas casino brought unique challenges, and they offer insights on what made the cutting room floor. The duo also analyzes the shifting tides of theatrical comedy and shares their ambitious plans for future projects.

Seth Rogen, a talented writer, director, and actor known for his collaborations with Evan Goldberg, joins the conversation to share wild stories from the set of their new show, ‘The Studio’. They dive into the challenges of capturing Hollywood’s quirky dynamics and the importance of creating a positive atmosphere during filming. The duo also reflects on how their characters embody real-life figures while exploring gratitude in the film industry. Plus, they touch on the box office buzz around the nostalgic release of 'Lilo & Stitch'.

Sean Evans, the innovative host of 'Hot Ones,' shares his journey from a niche internet show to a beloved celebrity favorite. He dives into the art of interviewing, revealing how he balances corporate interests with creative integrity. Evans debunks spicy myths surrounding the show, and humorously recounts challenges from filming in various cities. He also candidly discusses health management after the hot sauce challenges, all while teasing the upcoming 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning' buzz. Get ready for spicy insights and laughter!

Charlie Hellman, Spotify's VP and global head of music, shares insights into the music industry. He discusses the tumultuous impact of streaming, revealing how artists earn from Spotify and their frustrations. The conversation also touches on the competitive landscape against platforms like YouTube and the rising trend of AI-generated music. Hellman highlights the complexities of artist visibility and compensation, addressing ongoing challenges while emphasizing Spotify's role in enhancing artist relations. He concludes with thoughts on upcoming industry changes.