Strictly Business

Sean Astin, veteran actor and new SAG-AFTRA president, dives into hot topics impacting the industry. He discusses the complexities of the Jimmy Kimmel situation and articulates the union's stance on synthetic performers amid the Tilly Norwood controversy. Astin emphasizes the need for strong protections against AI encroachment, including human-only clauses in contracts. He also shares insights on Bryan Cranston’s involvement with OpenAI's Sora 2 and reveals SAG-AFTRA's proactive steps in addressing the booming trend of microdrama.

Tatiana Siegel, an investigative reporter for Variety, dives into David Ellison's tumultuous overhaul at Paramount. She reveals a drastic transformation with tough leadership, significant layoffs, and strategic bets on middle America, including a massive UFC deal. Meanwhile, Chris Willman, chief music critic at Variety, shares his insights on the AccraSure Arena near Palm Springs, noting its intimacy and production-friendly atmosphere that attracts top artists for rehearsals and concerts, offering a refreshing perspective on live music venues.

In this discussion, Todd Spangler, a Variety Business Editor, explores the impact of AI on big tech layoffs, particularly highlighting Amazon's significant job cuts driven by efficiency needs. He delves into how AI is reshaping roles within companies like Meta, enhancing coding efficiency while redefining workflows. Meanwhile, Jennifer Maas, a Senior Writer at Variety, unveils the secrets behind Dropout's subscriber growth, detailing a recent price increase that fans embraced. She emphasizes the indie streamer's unique niche content and strong fan relationships.

Rebecca Rubin, Senior film and media reporter at Variety, dives into the dismal box office turnout of Halloween weekend 2025. She explains how the combination of no major releases and competing events like the World Series led to staggering declines in theater attendance. October is highlighted as the worst month since 1997 for grosses, with several big-budget films missing the mark. The conversation also touches on Mark Walter's rise as a major force in L.A. sports, owning the Lakers and Dodgers, and a glamorous LACMA Gala featuring Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber.

Join Chris Dinan, executive producer of ABC News' World News Tonight, and Lindsay Davis, anchor for ABC News Live Prime, as they discuss adapting to remote production during COVID. Vin DeBona shares the challenges of creating 'At Home with AFV' using Zoom, while Jason Kurtz recalls launching 'The Drew Barrymore Show' amid uncertainty. They reflect on technical innovations, emotional tolls, and the lasting impacts of remote work on the industry. Discover how empathy shaped leadership in unprecedented times!

Naveen Sarma, Managing Director and U.S. media & telecom sector lead at S&P Global, shares valuable insights into the ever-evolving media landscape. He discusses the impact of high consumer demand for content on sector stability amid monetization challenges. AI's potential savings in production also come under the spotlight, along with Netflix's dominant role in streaming profitability. Additionally, Sarma evaluates Disney Plus's international growth prospects, advertising trends, and the implications of interest rates on M&A activity in the media sector.

On today's episode, Variety's Haley Kluge and Jennifer Dorn discuss how they produce Variety’s amazing Power of Women visuals year after year. And Marc Malkin brings us updates on "disgusting" things happening on Season 2 of “The Pitt” in a Red Carpet Rundown with stars Noah Wyle and Katherine LaNasa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ethan Schoenfeld, a Variety reporter renowned for his in-depth coverage of Sean 'Diddy' Combs's federal trial, shares insights into Diddy's shifting place in pop culture and his uncertain future following prison. They discuss the unlikely possibility of a presidential pardon and the implications of a potentially mismanaged prosecution. Additionally, a fun Red Carpet Rundown features Hilary Duff, who teases her music comeback and an exciting new docuseries. It's a mix of legal drama and celebrity updates!

On today’s episode, Variety's Rebecca Rubin explains why “Chainsaw Man” topped “Deliver Me From Nowhere” to lead the box office this weekend. And Nick Vivarelli reports on the scene in Lucca, Italy, where he’s covering a fan event that is bigger than San Diego Comic-Con.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Salome Hailu, a Variety reporter known for her sharp insights into TV and film, discusses Rachel Sennott’s rise as a multihyphenate talent behind HBO's "I Love L.A." She explores the show’s authentic portrayal of modern Los Angeles and Sennott's unique creative vision. Meanwhile, Gianna Levy, a keen reality-TV commentator, dives into the addictive dynamics of Netflix's "Love Is Blind." She unpacks the show's intriguing pod dating concept and reflects on the drama and revelations from the latest season.