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Former NFL GM blasts Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers
A former NFL general manager isn't sold on Aaron Rodgers' Super Bowl odds in what's shaping up to be his final season with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Dana White Reacts to Dricus du Plessis Beating Kamaru Usman
UFC president Dana White shared his reaction after Dricus du Plessis defeated Kamaru Usman in the main event of UFC Oklahoma City. Du Plessis was the more effective striker through the 25 minutes that the UFC OKC main event lasted, as he took home a unanimous decision win with 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46 scorecards. It […] The post Dana White Reacts to Dricus du Plessis Beating Kamaru Usman appeared first on HEAVY.
Seahawks Get Blunt Jadarian Price Outlook Before Training Camp
The Seattle Seahawks will be counting on Jadarian Price early in the 2026 season, with Zach Charbonnet likely to miss the start of the campaign as he returns from injury. Moreover, Seattle did lose Kenneth Walker III to the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency. Last season for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Price played 242 total snaps, leading to a 78.6 overall […] The post Seahawks Get Blunt Jadarian Price Outlook Before Training Camp appeared first on HEAVY.
Detroit Lions 2026 Player Profile: Christian Mahogany
Christian Mahogany enters his third year and although he was named the starter last season, that may not be promised this year.
Why Are Nothing's New 'B' Series Phones So Much Cheaper?
There are quite a number of downgrades that the Phone 4(b) has when put head to head with the 4(a), including a plastic back, and that's why it's cheaper.
How much are tickets to 2026 World Cup finals between Argentina and Spain?
Dig deep if you are looking for a last-minute ticket to see the World Cup final.
This Is The Alabama’s Biggest Question Entering 2026
Alabama enters the 2026 season with expectations as high as ever, but unlike many recent Crimson Tide teams, there is one glaring question that could determine whether Kalen DeBoer’s third season ends with a College Football Playoff run or another disappointing finish. Can Alabama finally establish a consistent running game? The numbers from last season…
Lorde blasts Spotify's AI song feature over error
Lorde isn't a fan of Spotify's AI-generated song descriptions. The streaming platform introduced its About the Song feature in February.
Rutgers’ AD Keli Zinn Addresses Athletics Deficit on Big Business on Campus Podcast
Rutgers AD Keli Zinn reports drastic revenue increase for Rutgers athletics compared to last year.
Rutgers’ AD Keli Zinn Addresses Athletics Deficit on Big Business on Campus Podcast
Rutgers AD Keli Zinn reports drastic revenue increase for Rutgers athletics compared to last year.
Liberal circuit judge blasts SCOTUS conservatives, says Hawaii will defy high court
Justice Todd Eddins accused the Roberts Court of reviving discredited 1857 and 1896 rulings while dismantling constitutional rights and democracy.
Bingo! How to win free Farm Science Review tickets in Clinton County
As quickly as the Clinton County Fair has come up on us, it’s hard to believe it’s already over. Today marks the last day of the Fair as exhibitors sell their projects and get ready to leave the fairgrounds. We wish you luck to all our exhibitors who are taking any projects to the State Fair or any other exhibitions! It was great seeing the culmination of all these kids’ hard work.
Orioles win 3-2 over Astros
The Rangers had won eight of their last 10 games against left-handed starters, but they were over-matched against Sale.
Chris Sale dominates with 7 shutout innings as the Braves rout the Rangers 15-1
The Rangers had won eight of their last 10 games against left-handed starters, but they were over-matched against Sale.
Nara Smith says 2-year-old-daughter Whimsy's cancer is in remission
The content creator, known for making elaborate meals while wearing glamorous ensembles, tells her TikTok and Instagram followers that she and her husband have spent the last eight months processing their daughter’s health battle.
AI’s new political donor class is already outspending Big Tech’s last one
Campaign filings show AI employees donating faster, more heavily, and more in sync than three prior tech-IPO donor classes. Here’s where the money is going.
Michigan health insurers seek large rate hikes for 2027
The proposed rate hikes are slightly smaller than last year's, but still in the double-digits for many plans.
Young musician dead at 23: His body was just discovered a year after he went missing
He went for a hike last year and disappeared.
Here’s where MS ranks among worst states for business in 2026. Did it get better from last year?
See how Mississippi’s ranking compares to previous year and other states across the country.
Penguins ticket prices reportedly trending down
Attendance across the NHL was up last season to record levels across the board. A rebound year on the ice meant improvements in Pittsburgh to fill the arena to 94% capacity in 2025-26, up from 91.5% in 2024-25. That 94% figure still ranks near the bottom of the league, with only six teams in the […]
Without Platner, Maine Democrats Scramble to Keep Grassroots Energy Alive
Graham Platner’s campaign for Senate imploded last week. The activists who backed him are seeking a candidate to carry his populist message in the race against Republican Susan Collins.
Boston businesses hope energy from World Cup crowds can have lasting impact on nightlife
Boston's summer of major international events is nearing its finale, but businesses and residents hope the momentum will continue long after the final whistle of the World Cup.
Longtime Browns Starter Signs With Rival Ravens: Report
A Cleveland Browns starter for the last four years just inked a contract with the Baltimore Ravens. The post Longtime Browns Starter Signs With Rival Ravens: Report appeared first on HEAVY.
Bill Belichick's 1st college team struggled at UNC. He's hoping for more success
“Last year when we started, we were literally starting from scratch," the Super Bowl-winning coach said. “We're above that now for sure.”
Entertainment Guilds Blast Emmy Category Changes
The Directors Guild of America, SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America Friday criticized a Television Academy decision to remove five Emmy Award categories from the prime-time broadcast. The criticism came a day after the Television Academy’s Board of Governors approved moving five award categories from the Sept. 14 prime-time telecast on NBC to ceremonies […]
The Haven Exchange: New business downtown provides a unique dining experience
LOCK HAVEN — A building that once welcomed customers to manage their finances is now welcoming them to gather over food, drinks and conversation. After months of renovations, planning and a few last minute hurdles, Emma and Parker Everett officially opened The Haven Exchange, 104 E. Main St., Lock Haven, on Friday, July 17, transforming […]
Leon Black walked out of an Epstein House committee interview. Here’s what we know
Billionaire investor Leon Black, who for years paid Jeffrey Epstein for tax and financial advice, is facing scrutiny over his relationship with the late convicted sex offender after walking out of a closed-door interview with House investigators last month.
North Carolina scientists find airborne microplastics warm Earth as much as 200 coal plants
"We really need every single thing at our disposal."
Trump administration races to rebuild tariff wall knocked down by Supreme Court
The U.S. Treasury last year swelled with revenue from President Donald Trump’s double-digit taxes on imports from almost every country on earth. But the money dried up after the Supreme Court struck down the biggest and boldest of Trump’s tariffs in February. The question now is: Can the president’s trade team make good on its promise to replace the lost revenue?
Meet the billionaires behind $336M ‘explosion’ of money in California politics, per new report
San Francisco is no stranger to concentrated wealth shaping City Hall, and big-money spenders did well here during the last primary.
Meet the billionaires behind $336M ‘explosion’ of money in California politics, per new report
San Francisco is no stranger to concentrated wealth shaping City Hall, and big-money spenders did well here during the last primary.
Michigan’s ‘money out of politics’ group confident in signature validity as it faces new challenge
Michigan’s Board of State Canvassers plan to take up the Michiganders for Money Out Of Politics petition next week, assessing both the sufficiency of its signatures collected over the last year, as well as a direct challenge to those signatures.
20 places on Earth that scientists still can't fully explain
From a Himalayan lake whose DNA results deepened its own mystery to a Siberian blast that still defies full explanation, these are 20 real places science hasn't fully cracked
Last-minute Samsung leak spoils all of its next-gen foldable phones
Samsung's three Galaxy Z foldables have leaked in promotional form five days before Galaxy Unpacked.
Two Ohio State Buckeye Legends, One Picture Frame
Two of the best Ohio State Buckeyes pose for a picture together, reminding us just how good we have had it watching the last 10 years of Ohio State Football.
Trump cites national security to stop offshore wind development. Here's what to know
President Donald Trump's administration has worked to stop offshore wind development on the grounds that it's a national security risk since late last year.
Off Season began with viral NFL jackets. Now Kristin Juszczyk is building a company designed to outlast any one sports season
Her brand, Off Season, is growing beyond football as she builds a fashion business around sports fandom.
A Legacy of Belief: Celebrating 30 Years of BCSD’s National Youth Sports Program
For 30 years, BCSD’s National Youth Sports Program, guided by the leadership of retiring Youth Services Supervisor Lewis Neal, has provided Bakersfield students with opportunities to build confidence, leadership skills, healthy habits, and lasting...
World Cup crowds brought record-breaking business to Seattle’s Pioneer Square. Will momentum last?
The organization says the focus now is on turning one-time visitors into repeat customers.
Less sleep = less health; Led Zeppelin in the OR; dangers of people-pleasing; plus other stories with Vanderbilt Health sources
Prevention interviewed Beth Malow, MD, Professor of Neurology and Pediatrics in the Vanderbilt Sleep Division, for a story about two randomized trials published in Annals of Internal Medicinethat found decreasing sleep by just 1.5 hours each night was linked with increases in body weight, waist circumference, and sedentary time in adults with elevated cardiometabolic risk. Yahoo Healthalso picked up the story. WTVF News Channel 5 reporter Nikki Hauser interviewed Ashish Shah, MD, Professor and Chair of Cardiac Surgery, for a new video podcast series called “Why Nashville” where she interviews interesting people doing interesting work about why they came to Nashville and how it is going. Among the revelations: his go-to OR music includes Led Zeppelin and AC/DC. Everyday Health interviewed Aaron Brinen, PsyD, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, for a story about the TikTok trend that encourages women to speak up about their concerns or they’ll develop an autoimmune disease. Overall, people suggest that suppressing feelings of anger, minimizing your own needs, or people-pleasing raises your risk. Telemundo Nashville broadcast a story on cyclosporiasis that quotes both William Schaffner, MD, professor of Preventive Medicine, and Juan C. Salazar, MD, MPH, chair of the Department of Pediatrics and system Pediatrician-in-Chief for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Schaffner also spoke to WKRN News 2 about measles and The Cutabout shingles and long distance running. WREG (Memphis) and others picked up the measles story as well. CNN reporter Deidre McPhillips interviewed John Trahanas, MD, Assistant Professor of Cardiac Surgery, and Director of Thoracic Aortic Surgery, for a story about aortic dissection in last week’s death of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham. The Nashville Post published a story by freelance reporter Leah Hunter on robotic surgery, including a patient story and numerous quotes from Sekhar Padmanabhan, MD, Assistant Professor of Surgery in the Division of Surgical Oncology.
How to Watch the 2026 World Cup Final This Sunday
Spain vs. Argentina World Cup Final: TV Channel, Live Stream, Kickoff Time, and Messi's Last Shot at Glory
Biggest differences with Cowboys from this year to last
What would you say is the biggest difference in the Cowboys this year compared to last?
Massie introduces second Epstein files bill
Last July, Rep. Thomas Massie introduced a bipartisan bill to force the Justice Department’s release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein.
How the hold-in has become the ploy of choice for Steelers with stalled contract talks
Six years ago, Le’Veon Bell became the last Steelers player to hold out during training camp. Upset the Steelers placed the franchise tag on him...
MAGA's meddling in European politics
While past US governments framed their involvement in Europe as support for democracy, that mission now appears less clear, especially since Donald Trump returned to office in January last year.
Supplement that binds to microplastics may remove them from our body
A supplement comprised of dead bacteria seems to remove microplastics, and prevent their absorption into cells, by attracting them to the bacteria's rough surfaces
Military Health System experts collaborate with NATO partners on brain health guidelines to improve warfighter readiness
In reaffirming its commitment to implementing protective actions against blast exposure for warfighters, the Military Health System collaborated with experts across the Department of War to develop and release the NATO report, “Guidelines to mitigate military occupational brain health risks from repetitive blast exposure.” The landmark guidelines provide a deeper understanding of repeated exposure to low-level blasts in military training and the battlefield — impacting brain health, force health, and readiness.
Only Cooper Cousins Until Penn State Football
We’re exactly 50 days away from Penn State kicking off its 2026 football season against Marshall, and today we’re honoring a person who is widely expected to help anchor the offensive line. After seeing playing time mainly on special teams as a freshman, Cooper Cousins saw action on the O-line as a sophomore last season, […]
Ron Howard describes ‘intense’ filming experience on John Wayne’s last movie
Howard and Wayne starred in the 1976 movie “The Shootist” together along with Lauren Bacall and James Stewart.
Insurers Hedge on Trump-Backed Pledge To Improve Denials Process
Last year, the Trump administration announced a voluntary commitment by dozens of insurers to improve a process called prior authorization, which often requires patients or their doctors to seek approval before proceeding with treatment. Less than one year later, some insurers chose not to sign the pledge’s update.
Jayden Daniels has three words to describe Patrick Mahomes
Jayden Daniels was in awe watching Patrick Mahomes against the Commanders last season.
Scientists discovered a plastic-eating fungus in the Amazon rainforest that survives without oxygen and could one day help tackle landfill waste worldwide
Deep within the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest, scientists discovered a fungus with an extraordinary ability that could offer new clues in the fight against plastic pollution. Known as Pestalotiopsis microspora, the fungus can break down polyester polyurethane, a widely used type of plastic, and use it as a source of carbon.
Eight Patriots facing the most pressure ahead of training camp
Last year, expectations for the Patriots were bare-bones. But heavy lies the crown for the reigning AFC champs.
Family businesses built to last: Meet the 2026 FOBA honorees
Eight Central Valley companies are being recognized in The Business Journal's 2026 Family Owned Business Awards for multigenerational leadership and business longevity.
SF overdose deaths decline as public health officials expand treatment, drug monitoring
Overdose deaths in San Francisco have declined compared to last year, a trend local public health officials say reflects both national patterns and the city's ongoing efforts to expand treatment and other interventions.
Stanley Cup, World Cup lead to big betting in June, last month before tax, distribution changes
Matt Damon gets caught not knowing his ‘Odyssey’ costar Zendaya’s last name
Zendaya and Matt Damon both star in ‘The Odyssey,’ but he struggled to summon her last name while promoting the new film: ‘Uhhhh…’
‘It’s not really about sports’: One parent on ending lawsuit against NH’s trans student athlete ban
Sara Tirrell, the mother of one of the teenagers who dropped her legal challenge against the state, spoke with NHPR about the decision and what the last two years have been like for her family.
How Americans are engaged with news, politics, religion and civic life
The Briefing ☀️ Happy Thursday! The Briefing is your guide to the world of news and information. Sign up here! In today’s email: 🔥 Featured story German regulators said this week that the country’s media laws apply to content generated by artificial intelligence after a court ruled last month that Google is liable for inaccurate […]
Do Good Fest raises $200K for youth mental health nonprofits
Last weekend’s Do Good Fest charity concert raised $200,000 to support youth mental health.
NBA reportedly looking into Bucks' signing of Gary Trent Jr.
The deal sparked some controversy after Trent made less than $4 million in each of the last two seasons in Milwaukee.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Best friends’ home interiors store starts new chapter with a move
Opening Clover last November fulfilled a longtime dream for best friends Kyle Donovan and Julie Pitt. Less than a year later, the Marblehead entrepreneurs are beginning a new chapter — relocating their home interiors store to a larger, more visible storefront at 9 Pleasant St. The Marblehead natives spent two years planning the business before
Giving old sweaters ‘Anu’ life: Greenfield business celebrates one year of upcycling cashmere into new winter sportswear
Greenfield based company Anu recently celebrated its first anniversary since beginning its journey of upcycling used cashmere sweaters into neck warmers, reducing exposure to microplastics and toxins in outdoor wear.
Google Pixel 11 Rumor Roundup: New Colors, Higher Prices and Lots of Leaks
Everything we've heard about what the new Pixel 11 phones look like, new prices and more storage than last year.
CGC hoping three iconic sports cards can shift perceptions in PSA-dominated grading landscape
As the last remaining sizable competitor to grading giant PSA, CGC is trying to make further inroads with sports card collectors.
Maker of Drone Boats Used in Iran War to Open New Texas Shipyard
Saronic Technologies will make naval and commercial vessels at the facility. The company’s naval drone helped rescue the crew of a downed Apache helicopter last month.
EA Is Salivating At The Prospect Of Loading Games Up With Ads
The last un-monetized frontier of gaming: virtual billboards
Julie Chen Moonves blasts Rick Devens: ‘This ain’t ‘Survivor,’ honey. This here ‘Big Brother’’
‘Big Brother’ host Julie Chen Moonves blasts Rick Devens’ gameplay: ‘This ain’t ‘Survivor,’ honey. This here ‘Big Brother.’ Go back to the island, dude.’
UnitedHealth blasts health care providers’ ‘egregious’ awards under No Surprises Act
Eden-Prairie based health care giant highlights alleged arbitration abuses while reporting success on financial turnaround.
The Science Behind Ketchup Pouring Could Lead to Ceramic 3D Printing
3D printing’s usefulness goes far beyond plastic.
How is USF St. Pete’s Marine Science Lab doing 2 months after catastrophic fire?
For the 150 students and faculty housed in the building, the last couple months have been a series of ups and downs.
Heat-related deaths spiked in last heat wave, worrying health officials as more heat looms
Heat-related deaths jumped to 19 in the first half of the summer, with eight of those coming during the brutal heat wave around the Fourth of July, putting the state on track to record the second-most heat deaths in 15 years, new data shows
Trump earned billions last year. Some Pennsylvania swing voters say they don't care
Key voters in Pennsylvania are split on whether President Trump earning a big windfall last year is a big deal or not. Their reaction reveals a level of cynicism about many in the political class.
Bryson DeChambeau aims to salvage major season at The Open as LIV Golf contract nears expiration
DeChambeau's contract year has been a disaster, but he has one last chance to get something out of the four major championships
Trump is taking longer to approve disaster aid and denying Democratic states more frequently
Americans are waiting longer for disaster aid under President Donald Trump, with delays often lasting weeks or months
At the Podium: Duce Robinson’s Comments from ACC Kickoff
The 6-foot-6 All-ACC receiver details passing on the NFL to refine his route tree, embrace a fourth starting quarterback, and cement a lasting legacy in Tallahassee.
ZeniMax Online Studios leadership to exit as part of Xbox cuts
There are major changes happening atop Maryland-based ZeniMax Online Studios, developer of the Elder Scrolls Online, Game File has learned. Joe Burba, a 14-year veteran of the studio who was appointed to run it last July, is departing, along with ESO executive producer Susan Kath, studio game director Rich Lambert and production director Ala Diaz. Their roles were listed among hundreds of others cut last week from the Maryland offices of ZeniMax, in a WARN letter sent to the state by ZeniMax and obtained today by Game File. Tonight, BUrbam Kath, Lambert and Diaz notified Zenimax Online Studios workers of plans to “transition” to a new leadership team consisting of promoted ZOS veterans. That transition will occur “over the next few months,” they told workers, according to a copy of the notice reviewed by Game File. “We will remain in place during the transition period to help ensure a smooth handoff.” Last week, Microsoft laid off of 1,600 workers across its vast gaming teams in locations around the U.S. and abroad. Just who has been impacted and how hard various studios have been hit has been emerging day by day. Game File reported last week that Microsoft/ZeniMax notified officials in Maryland that 379 gaming jobs were being cut across the state. They tallied cuts in two locations: one for ZeniMax Media Inc. (covering Elder Scrolls/Starfield/Fallout-maker Bethesda Game Studios and central Bethesda game publishing) and one for ZeniMax Online Studios (Elder Scrolls Online). More than 200 jobs were cut at the latter. Last week’s totals did not reveal job titles, nor did Microsoft announce any leadership changes in the ZeniMax group. That has now happened. Earlier today, Game File obtained from Maryland officials a breakdown of the 379 impacted roles, which, extraordinarily, included “studio head.” Microsoft later confirmed to Game File which studio head that referred to: ZeniMax Online Studios’. Microsoft has since has notified studio employees and internally announced new leadership. ZOS will now be run by Josh Henderson, previously head of business operations at the studio, and Nick Giacomini, who was promoted to game director for ESO last August. Game File is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my journalism, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe Last week’s news of 200+ cuts at ZeniMax Online Studios generated public sympathy for those workers and questions about the long-term viability of the Elder Scrolls Online. ESO is a massively multiplayer online game that inherently persists on the strength of new content being developed for it. Earlier today, fans and workers in Maryland protested the cuts at the ZeniMax teams in a rally organized by the Communication Workers of America, the union that represents many of the impacted employees. Regarding concerns around the game, a community manager stated on Saturday: “The plan is still to deliver great content, and we will hopefully have an update soon.” In their note to the studio today, the outgoing leaders of ZeniMax Online Studios predicted “growth” for the game: We have tremendous confidence in Josh and Nick, the future of this studio, and the continued growth of ESO. With exciting experiences still ahead for our players as we wrap up work for Update 51 and beyond, we believe that your passion, creativity, and commitment to each other and the community will continue serving as the heartbeat of ESO. The list of jobs cut in the ZeniMax WARN notice in Maryland includes several very senior roles, including: Studio Head Studio Operations Director Studio Game Director Studio Audio Director Studio Art Manager Vice President and Controller VP, Global Sales & Business Development While some of those job descriptions match the exiting ZOS leadership team, Game File couldn’t verify if all were from that studio. The full list of cut roles shared by Maryland officials also covers workers at Bethesda Game Studios and its central publishing office. The following is an excerpt: The list of 379 eliminated ZeniMax jobs in Maryland also includes: four animators three bilingual CS (community service) leads for Chinese, Italian, and Japanese a creative director for the Elder Scrolls Online Player Life Cycle two food service workers seven producers more than 60 senior QA testers. and many others The WARN notice states that almost all of the 379 workers were notified of their layoff on July 6. In fine print, it states: “Approximately 9 employees were notified of the elimination of their position prior to July 6, 2026.” A 2021 mega-merger scaled back Microsoft announced in 2020 that it intended to buy ZeniMax and its network of game studios in 2020, and closed the $7.5 billion deal in March 2021. The purchase, which preceded Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, added several award-winning studios to Microsoft’s portfolio, including Bethesda (Elder Scrolls, Fallout), Arkane (Dishonored), and id Software (Doom). The studios’ output since then included a 2024 Game of the Year contented from MachineGames in the form of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle along with Starfield from Bethesda and the poorly-received Redfall from Arkane Austin. In recent years, a Microsoft repeatedly in cutback mode closed ZeniMax’s Tango Gameworks (which was reconstituted by Krafton) and closed Arkane Austin. The Xbox cuts last week have hit the ZeniMax group hard, with 158 jobs eliminated in Texas, many of them at id, and 379 from the ZeniMax teams in Maryland. Xbox also said last week that it would be entering a consultation process around Arkane Lyon, a process expected to end in a sale, shutdown or other form of divestment. The Lyon team has been working on a game tied to Marvel’s Blade vampire-hunting super-hero.
The ’Gay’ Attacks on Lindsey Graham Are All About Politics
Was Lindsey Graham gay? As the author of a book about the history of gay Washington, D.C., it’s a question I’ve been asked frequently for years, and even more so since his sudden death last weekend. The South Carolina Republican’s lifelong confirmed bachelorhood, vocal intonation, and Southern dandy demeanor (if not sartorial choices) prompted many to conclude that he was, as they say in that part of the country, “light in his loafers.” Graham’s repeated attestations to the contrary had zero effect on those invested in the narrative that he was. Only about the matter of J. Edgar Hoover’s rumored cross-dressing (for which there is much circumstantial but no direct evidence) am I questioned more. Whenever I’ve been asked to speculate upon Graham’s sexuality—and speculate was all that I or anyone else could do—I always answered the question honestly. While my personal sense is that Graham was probably gay, as a journalist and a historian I cannot rely on my intuition to make factual assertions. (Gaydar hasn’t yet been scientifically perfected.) Given the absence of any known female or male romantic interests, Graham may very well have been a heterosexual unlucky in love. He might also have been asexual. Barring the highly unlikely postmortem emergence of a personal diary or some other unassailable evidence attesting to Graham’s innermost yearnings, we will never know the answer. As is depressingly the case these days when a public figure dies, a chorus of voices reveled in Graham’s passing, many of them making light of his presumed homosexuality.
Chippewa Entertainment District bar owners blame loiterers, not patrons, for weekend violence
Bar owners say their establishments and customers are not responsible for the violence that erupted last weekend in Buffalo's Chippewa Entertainment District.
Giants Rivals Feature 2 of NFL's top-10 Wide Receivers
The New York Giants are ecstatic to see A.J. Brown leave the NFC East. CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens each landed on the list of the top-10 wide receivers, which was voted on by 70-plus scouts, coaches and executives and compiled by ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. The Giants went 1-1 against Dallas last year, and nearly swept the the Cowboys if not for the Cowboys' furious, last-minute comeback.
Starmer says his political journey is over at his last question session as UK leader
Starmer, who leaves office next week, bid farewell to the boisterous weekly Prime Minister’s Questions sessions where he has traded barbs with opposition politicians and defended his government’s record.
Android 17 QPR1 Beta 7 rolling out for Pixel
Following last release two weeks ago, Android 17 QPR1 Beta 7 is rolling out today for Pixel devices. Android 17...
Suspect arrested for murder in deadly beating outside Las Vegas business
Authorities say they've arrested a suspect in connection with the deadly beating of a man outside a Las Vegas business last week.
Joey, Jesse Buss reportedly interested in NBA Europe ownership, stake in Padres
The brothers were fired from their positions within the Los Angeles Lakers' front office last fall, not long after Mark Walter's purchase of the franchise from the Buss family was approved.
The States Try to Topple WarnerMount…Thus Begins the Local Antitrust Era
(Welcome to the “Most Important Story of the Week”, my bi-weekly strategy column analyzing the most important (but often not buzziest) news story of the last two weeks. I’m the Entertainment Strategy Guy, a former streaming executive who now analyzes business strategy in the entertainment industry. Please subscribe.) Well, it looks like it’s time for another strategy column. Can I finally avoid writing about M&A? No, it seems I cannot. Admittedly, I’m a week early with this column, since I usually put it out every other week. But this news couldn’t wait. This will make three “Most Important Stories” in a row with a merger or acquisition as its centerpiece. First, Roku-Fox (an acquisition), then Comcast-NBCUniversal (a divestment!), and now the State AGs and the WGA’s lawsuits against Paramount’s pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery (antitrust). M&A is usually the “most important” topic any given week, simply because a giant company merging or breaking up (or preventing those outcomes) can have the biggest impact on the streaming board. If you think about these companies as players in a game, changing the number of players is one of the biggest changes you can make. I shouldn’t really complain, either, since this lawsuit is very good news for customers and suppliers (econ speak for talent, workers and indie studios in Hollywood). So let me answer some questions about this potential trial, along with (shudder) making some heavily caveated predictions. I’ll also look at whether Hollywood must consolidate, whether or not the states can win, trouble at X-Box, Netflix’s YouTube binge, and more. Plus, I have five images that visualize this merger and the harm, including three brand new data looks you’ve never seen before. Subscribe Most Important Story of the Week - Can The States and the WGA Stop Hollywood’s Consolidation (Crisis)? If every other newsletter and news outlet is writing about the same story, I try to avoid writing about it as well, but I can’t ignore a story this consequential. The story of the last year was the fate of Warner Bros. Discovery, and this development potentially extends that saga into 2027. As I tried to figure out my angle, I realized, like my last column, I’m again faced with a series of questions. These questions, though, are much more forward-looking. Will the states win? Will the WGA win? If so, what happens to Warner Bros. Discovery? Either way, will this chill the market for future mergers? So you know what that means: predictions. About the future, no less, the hardest thing to predict.1 Just remember: nothing here comes with a guarantee. And the more confident someone is in their predictions, the less you should trust them. This situation is incredibly fluid, nuanced, uncertain and tenuous. So let’s try to explain what may happen. Question: Why File this Lawsuit? I’ll admit, a few months back, I was fairly pessimistic about the fate of this lawsuit. Rumors had started bubbling up that the state Attorneys General (in particular California) wanted to settle with either some minor divestments (usually CNN) or behavioral remedies. And that tracked for me: the states usually settle lawsuits, like the recent John Deere right-to-repair suit. Yet, they plan to fight this. (As they did the LiveNation-Ticketmaster monopolization trial and the Nexstar-Tegna merger.) Honestly, that also makes a ton of sense. Frankly, this move is just good politics for these State AGs. Most are still running for higher and higher office in blue states—some folks have emphasized that only Democratic AGs joined this suit, but given the Ellison/Trump ties, and fears of retribution, that tracks—and a high profile case like this will help them move up the electoral ladder, especially since Paramount and its leadership (the Ellisons, father and heir) have sided with the other side of the political aisle. That makes them unsympathetic to Democratic voters and Hollywood workers in particular. Why did this lawsuit happen? In addition to the very real concerns about industry consolidation, this is why. That said, I don’t think we would have seen this lawsuit for Netflix and Warner Bros., simply because they’re more sympathetic and aligned with Democrats. But those consolidation concerns are real. The “town”—meaning Hollywood and such—really is seeing the damage of mergers on this industry. That’s why the WGA also filed its own lawsuit in defense of workers as well. (Wildcard: What about Europe? Will they try to stop the deal, too? There have been some rumors out of the UK they may try to fight the deal, and UK enforcers just stopped a Getty Images-Shutterstock tie up, so there is precedence. This argument could go either way, though. On one hand, the EU doesn’t need to step in, cause they states are handling it. On the other hand, this could make the EU’s case easier. Just imagine if both sides coordinated. I’ll simply say, “We’ll see!”) Question: Will The State AGs or the WGA Win? Can the state AGs play David to Paramount-Skydance’s Goliath here? That’s really the whole thing, isn’t it? If you know this result, you could make a lot of money. When things are uncertain, it’s tempting to shrug and say, “Eh” meaning it’s a 50/50 proposition. I wouldn’t, though. When in doubt, you should expect that the merging parties succeed. AT&T did successfully buy Warner Bros., after all, and Disney bought Fox without any challenges. Many judges are extremely sympathetic to mergers, and I’d bet the state AGs get a judge who will allow the merger. (Even Obama-appointed judges often allow mergers.) As I understand it, we’ll see two main attacks. First, theatrical films. The AGs are arguing that, when it comes to share of box office and the number of both “wide releases” and blockbuster (or “tentpole”) films, the merging parties will have over 27% market share. Now, the Supreme Court once ruled from on high that any merger that exceeds 30% is presumptively illegal, but that’s guidance, not an ironclad bar. Still, the states will have to argue that this is close to having too much power, and with that power, this will likely further worsen the theater/studio splits in particular. Indeed, as Matthew Stoller pointed out, “just five studios are responsible for 95% of all blockbusters; if this merger goes through, then Paramount and Disney will control 60% of that.” So yes, movie studios will be very concentrated after this merger. Want me to visualize some of that? Well, here’s the share of films that grossed over $200 million at the domestic box office since 2022. (Note: this isn’t all films released in over 3,000 screens, but it is a good look at market power.) First, here are the 43 films by studio: Notice all the blue (Disney), orange (Universal), and purple (Warner Bros)? Yeah, those studios are powerful, and this combines Paramount with one of them. Here’s the look by studio and share of the films that grossed over $200 million: Now, if you look at that and also think, “Huh, should we break up Disney?” I’m with you. I’ve seen some folks poo-poo this idea that this is a real category, but it is! For an upcoming article, I’ve been pulling data on the share of top 100 films at the box office as a share of total box office, and it’s massive. Here’s the chart: (This analysis looks at The-Number’s top 100 films and total domestic box office each year.) To be clear, tentpoles make up 80.7% of the box office each year, so I do think it’s a genuine market. (To be clear, films grossing over $50 million make up 80% of the domestic box office, and films grossing over $100 million make up 64.1%.) I mean, the top 100 films at the box office make up 95% of each year’s grosses. Worse, the combined studios will likely cut output to flex that market power. Everyone can just look at what happened to Disney and Fox to see the precedent. (With fewer films, the remaining theaters have to give more for those few films that remain.) Here’s an image I’ve used a lot, the share of wide-release films from Disney and Fox over time: The AGs will also argue that this consolidation will also impact the cable industry. In this case, the consolidation is actually worse, but that environment is…complicated. Paramount will argue that the cable industry is shrinking. That said, predictions that cable will “go to zero” also don’t look very well supported by the data, as the declines are shrinking, meaning “cable” or “vMVPDs” will likely stabilize at some point. Can the state Attorneys General win on those two main arguments? I honestly don’t know. Again, I’d bet no, since history in general supports that, but it depends on the judge/jury and how they interpret the arguments. Notably, Paramount won’t face accusations about monopoly power in other areas, like streaming, news, sports rights, or vertical integration. I tend to disagree with leaving out sports rights, but I also see the appeal for a simpler case. The states also aren’t really pushing novel theories about labor harm either, which should help. (By the way, Sean McNulty at The Ankler wrote a great run through of potential options, and Capitol Forum also wrote a great paper on theatrical consolidation. Both these pieces predated the lawsuit. Matthew Stoller is also out with his analysis of the pros and cons of the case too.) In some ways, the WGA’s case is even stronger. Quoting Sean McNulty’s summary: “The WGA is citing WARNAMOUNT as crossing a 30% market share in multiple sectors, a number that the Supreme Court has precedent for deeming “presumptively anticompetitive” in a market. According to the WGA numbers, WARNAMOUNT would have represented: - 35% of film writing jobs between 2021 and 2024 - 36% of TV writing projects between 2022 and 2025 - 38% of overall deals between 2021 and 2024” Notably, antitrust enforcers did win recently in the Penguin-Simon & Schuster merger by focusing on labor impact, so don’t count this thinking out. (Wildcard: Will the states try to get a jury trial? Most likely no, they’ll let a judge handle it. If I’m them, though, I’d try to put this in front of a jury. Juries tend to understand monopoly power in a more realistic way than judges faced with legions of economists.) Question: What if They Win? What if They Lose?
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