Ankler Agenda

Michele Mulroney, president of the Writers Guild of America West and a former television writer, shares urgent insights on the implications of Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros. She highlights past mergers' negative impact on writers' jobs and diversity, warning that further consolidation threatens competition and opportunities. Mulroney emphasizes the need for writers to advocate for their interests and embrace entrepreneurial creativity. She also calls for industry leaders to consider the welfare of workers in the wake of corporate decisions.

Lesley Goldberg, a television reporter and Ankler contributor, joins the discussion on Netflix's surprising $82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. She highlights the potential job losses and the industry’s anxiety over this mega-deal. The panel explores how this move could impact iconic brands like HBO, the fear surrounding theater survival, and the possibility of Netflix acquiring all-star showrunners. They also touch on the ramifications for guild negotiations and future content strategies, leaving many in the industry feeling shell-shocked.

Richard Rushfield, founder of The Ankler and expert on studio business dynamics, joins the discussion on the frenzy over Warner Bros. Discovery's potential acquisition. The podcast explores the big players—Netflix, Paramount Skydance, and Comcast—who are circling like hawks. Discussion includes which studio executive would best lead the merged entity and the troubling implications of consolidation in Hollywood. Rushfield passionately argues for alternatives to studio takeovers, emphasizing the need for creativity and competition over conglomeration.

Katie Rich, host of the Prestige Junkie podcast and awards-season expert, dives into the surprising success of *Wicked*, noting it drew an audience that was 70% women. She highlights how female-led films are thriving while male-targeted movies struggle. Rich also discusses the current Oscar race, revealing many voters haven't seen enough contenders. Additionally, she provides insights on Warner Bros. strong position with their best picture frontrunners, while addressing the challenges and perceptions of films released on streaming platforms.

How long before Warner Bros. becomes another studio swallowed up by David Ellison? With final bids for WBD due this week, all eyes remain on Paramount Skydance — despite the Comcast and Netflix red herrings. Elaine Low, Sean McNulty and Natalie Jarvey break down why a Paramount–Warners mash-up now feels less like speculation and more like destiny. Then Richard Rushfield reveals the whispers starting to circulate within the creative community about Ellison’s cozy ties to Donald Trump and how it might push back. Plus: As Disney becomes a luxury brand and even monthly streaming bills seem like an extravagance, has the middle-class been priced out of entertainment? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special bonus Ankler Agenda episode, Richard Rushfield chats with Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group co-chairs Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy about their journey to Warners, their record-breaking year at the box office and why their strategy paid off on hits from ‘Sinners’ to ‘Superman’ — all in the face of relentless negative headlines about their bold and risk-taking slate. With a combined 70 years of making movies, these two have seen it all — hits and flops, unexpected wins and surprising losses. But even now, with so many signs pointing to the contrary — and the fate of their studio in doubt, as it's officially up for sale — they both retain a sense of hope and wonder for the best that Hollywood can be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this discussion, Erik Barmack, former head of international originals at Netflix and now CEO of Wild Sheep Content, shares insights on AI's looming impact on Hollywood. He highlights how big tech’s ambitions threaten creative jobs, revealing which roles may become obsolete. Barmack warns that the traditional apprenticeship model for filmmakers is at risk. As AI technology grows, it could democratize content creation, yet it simultaneously dismantles crucial industry roles. The future of drama in theaters and streaming services also faces critical challenges.

Lachlan Cartwright, co-founder of Breaker Media and a media reporter, dives into the media landscape's transformation. He discusses the rise of 'newsfluencers' overshadowing traditional cable news, with viewers' ages skewing older. Lachlan shares insider insights on Bari Weiss's controversial leadership at CBS News, including staff concerns and her unconventional style. The conversation also touches on the challenges of attracting younger audiences, the future of MSNOW, and the impact of recent political shifts on media trust.

The podcast dives into the alarming economic indicators plaguing Hollywood, spotlighting significant job losses at major studios and a worrisome decline in shoot days. A guest shares insights from his nationwide theater tour, revealing changing moviegoing habits and rising costs. The discussion shifts to the exodus of productions due to attractive tax incentives elsewhere. Concerns also arise over skyrocketing streaming prices leading to churn, while a new segment critiques the dwindling presence of female directors in major releases, revealing harsh industry realities.

Elaine Low introduces a dynamic new format that dives into Hollywood's latest trends and the evolving creator economy. Co-hosts Sean McNulty, Natalie Jarvey, and Richard Rushfield join her to analyze the headlines shaping entertainment. Expect expert insights and lively discussions about creativity and culture. With new content on YouTube every Thursday, this podcast is your backstage pass to the business of showbiz!