On with Kara Swisher

Kara Swisher chats with Matthew Belloni, an entertainment journalist from Puck News; Franklin Leonard, founder of The Blacklist; and Brooke Hammerling, communications expert and pop culture authority. They dive into the impressive box office success of 'Barbie' and 'Oppenheimer' during the industry strikes. They discuss whether this cinematic surge is a trend or a one-off event, the role of community in shaping film choices, and the challenges faced by female filmmakers in a struggling landscape. Their insights reveal the complexities of Hollywood today.

A commencement address offers a humorous reflection on attire and the legacy of an esteemed institution, emphasizing creativity in a tech-driven world. The speaker champions individuality, urging graduates to challenge norms for personal growth. They share tales of digital transformation, from early tech encounters to social media's societal impact, stressing the need for responsible practices. A light-hearted reminder encourages stepping outside the digital realm to appreciate real-life experiences, leaving graduates with both wisdom and warmth.

Fran Drescher, the iconic star of "The Nanny" and current president of SAG-AFTRA, discusses the recent SAG strike and the challenges facing Hollywood. She reveals what led to the breakdown in negotiations and her thoughts on corporate greed among the industry's "fat cats." The conversation delves into the impact of AI on actors' livelihoods and the urgent need for fair compensation and solidarity among performers. With her fiery passion, Drescher hints at the possibility of a future run for office, championing the fight for equitable treatment in entertainment.

Chris Larsen, the co-founder and Executive Chairman of Ripple, dives into current crypto dynamics following a pivotal legal win for Ripple. He discusses the nuanced ramifications of SEC regulations and the importance of timely oversight in the crypto sector. Larsen also opines on his hefty investments to address urban issues in San Francisco, emphasizing that while he’s passionate about community safety, he has no interest in running for office. The conversation touches on the resurgence of the cryptocurrency industry amid Hollywood strikes and broader societal challenges.

Join Jeremy W. Peters, a New York Times reporter specializing in Fox News, along with media critic Margaret Sullivan and Jonah Goldberg, editor of The Dispatch, as they dissect the intriguing power dynamics among Tucker Carlson, Rupert Murdoch, and Donald Trump. They delve into Carlson's controversial exit, the shifting sands of Fox News as the elections loom, and the evolving landscape of political media. Expect insights into how these relationships impact viewer loyalty and the broader implications for traditional journalism versus social media.

Jake Tapper, Chief Washington Correspondent for CNN and author of "All the Demons Are Here," dives into the state of journalism amid political turmoil. He discusses the challenge of avoiding clickbait in a sensationalist media landscape and questions the future of nonpartisan news. Tapper also reflects on the lasting impacts of Watergate on public trust and shares insights from his novel that draw parallels to real-life media figures. The conversation touches on ethical dilemmas in today's political coverage and the essential role of integrity in journalism.

Oliver Stone, acclaimed filmmaker behind classics like "Wall Street" and "JFK," dives deep into his latest documentary on nuclear energy. He addresses the surprising underutilization of nuclear power in the U.S. and critiques public perception shaped by past incidents. Stone explores the intertwining of film, politics, and climate change, advocating for nuclear energy as a crucial solution. He also notes the rise of conspiracy thinking in America, challenging listeners to rethink narratives around truth and storytelling in film.

The discussion kicks off with a humorous look back at early encounters with Mark Zuckerberg. Topics like accountability in data privacy raise ethical questions about his leadership. Tech turbulence is spotlighted, noting recent layoffs and Instagram's rumored plans to take on Twitter. The contrasting personalities of tech titans are dissected, emphasizing Zuckerberg's unique challenges and communication struggles. Finally, the fallout from Facebook's IPO and controversies surrounding misinformation highlight the ongoing tension between corporate accountability and innovation.

In this engaging conversation, Sarah Jessica Parker, the iconic actress and entrepreneur known for Carrie Bradshaw in "Sex and the City," shares her insights on the evolving landscape of Hollywood. She discusses reprising her legendary role and her successful ventures in shoe design and wine. SJP emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in storytelling and the resilience of cinema amidst industry challenges, while also reflecting on the intersection of fashion and personal business. Her passion for empowering creatives shines through as she navigates the complexities of show business.

Wanda Sykes, a comedian and actress renowned for her sharp wit and stand-up specials, shares her insights on the current political climate. She humorously dissects topics like lockdowns, vaccine hesitancy, and book bans in her latest Netflix special. Sykes also expresses her evolving views on humor, specifically stating why she finds Donald Trump no longer funny. The conversation highlights the challenges of addressing sensitive societal issues through comedy, emphasizing the importance of advocating for marginalized voices.