Exclusive: The Paley Center for Media has appointed four new trustees to its board and added some high profile executives to its L.A. contingent on the West Coast.
Kristin Dolan, CEO of AMC Networks, Omar Abbosh, CEO of Pearson, Brad Karp, chair of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, and Dennis Mathew, chairman-ceo of Altice USA are new to the board of trustees of the nonprofit programmer and think tank that explores all things media.
The Los Angeles Board of Governors is also expanding with Jesse Collins, founder and CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment; Sharb Farjami, North America CEO of GroupM; Daryl Lee, Global CEO of McCann Worldgroup; Christian Muirhead, co-chairman of WME; and Ben Samek, CEO of Banijay America. They join Bela Bajaria, Jennifer Salke, Kevin Beggs, Greg Berlanti, Frances Berwick, Casey Bloys, Robert A. Boyd II, Campbell Brown, Brian Robbins, George Cheeks, Agnes Chu, Channing Dungey, Michael Kassan,...
Kristin Dolan, CEO of AMC Networks, Omar Abbosh, CEO of Pearson, Brad Karp, chair of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, and Dennis Mathew, chairman-ceo of Altice USA are new to the board of trustees of the nonprofit programmer and think tank that explores all things media.
The Los Angeles Board of Governors is also expanding with Jesse Collins, founder and CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment; Sharb Farjami, North America CEO of GroupM; Daryl Lee, Global CEO of McCann Worldgroup; Christian Muirhead, co-chairman of WME; and Ben Samek, CEO of Banijay America. They join Bela Bajaria, Jennifer Salke, Kevin Beggs, Greg Berlanti, Frances Berwick, Casey Bloys, Robert A. Boyd II, Campbell Brown, Brian Robbins, George Cheeks, Agnes Chu, Channing Dungey, Michael Kassan,...
- 5/29/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Stormy Daniels Doc Finds UK Buyer
The Stormy Daniels doc from the producers of Britney vs Spears and Judd Apatow has landed a UK buyer. Paramount-owned Channel 5 has secured exclusive first-run rights to air Peacock’s Stormy, telling the in-her-own-words story of the woman currently embroiled in a legal tussle with former Potus Donald Trump. Produced by Sarah Gibson and Erin Lee Carr, Stormy offers an intimate look behind the scenes as the former adult movie star navigates her roles as a mother, an artist and an advocate striving to reinvent herself while contending with the explosive revelation that shook her life five years ago. Apatow is exec producing alongside Emmy Award-winning Sara Bernstein and Meredith Kaulfers from Imagine Documentaries. Daniels is currently involved in a very public legal battle with Trump over alleged hush money paid for her silence about an alleged sexual liaison years earlier. “Bringing...
The Stormy Daniels doc from the producers of Britney vs Spears and Judd Apatow has landed a UK buyer. Paramount-owned Channel 5 has secured exclusive first-run rights to air Peacock’s Stormy, telling the in-her-own-words story of the woman currently embroiled in a legal tussle with former Potus Donald Trump. Produced by Sarah Gibson and Erin Lee Carr, Stormy offers an intimate look behind the scenes as the former adult movie star navigates her roles as a mother, an artist and an advocate striving to reinvent herself while contending with the explosive revelation that shook her life five years ago. Apatow is exec producing alongside Emmy Award-winning Sara Bernstein and Meredith Kaulfers from Imagine Documentaries. Daniels is currently involved in a very public legal battle with Trump over alleged hush money paid for her silence about an alleged sexual liaison years earlier. “Bringing...
- 5/21/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The wait for Max’s European launch is nearly over.
The Warner Bros Discovery streaming service will launch in the Nordics, Iberia, and Central and Eastern Europe — where HBO Max is already available — on May 21, with launches in Poland, the Netherlands, France, and Belgium following closely after. House of the Dragon season 2 will debut in Europe on June 17.
This means the streamer will be available in 25 countries in Europe and 65 overall, having first launched in the U.S. in May last year. Pricing wasn’t revealed.
HBO Max, which Max replaced in the U.S., is currently offers in some European territories but is being phased out. The launches in France and Belgium mark the first new territory launches for Wbd in two years. In Belgium and the Netherlands, the service will be known as HBO Max.
Notably, Max will be the only platform to stream all live coverage of...
The Warner Bros Discovery streaming service will launch in the Nordics, Iberia, and Central and Eastern Europe — where HBO Max is already available — on May 21, with launches in Poland, the Netherlands, France, and Belgium following closely after. House of the Dragon season 2 will debut in Europe on June 17.
This means the streamer will be available in 25 countries in Europe and 65 overall, having first launched in the U.S. in May last year. Pricing wasn’t revealed.
HBO Max, which Max replaced in the U.S., is currently offers in some European territories but is being phased out. The launches in France and Belgium mark the first new territory launches for Wbd in two years. In Belgium and the Netherlands, the service will be known as HBO Max.
Notably, Max will be the only platform to stream all live coverage of...
- 3/21/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Director Gareth Edwards will direct his Jurassic World sequel at Sky Studios Elstree this year ahead of its release in 2025.
Production is moving necessarily fast on the next Jurassic World film, with Gareth Edwards and his collaborators working to meet the pre-defined release date of July 2025 set by Universal Pictures.
We heard last month that filming is expected to get underway in July; in the meantime, Universal has confirmed that the sequel will film this year at Sky Studios Elstree in the UK.
The announcement was made in the wake of British chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s spring budget today (6th March) in which he announced some new tax breaks for film and TV studios as well as tax credits for UK-based indie films with budgets less than £15m.
The boss of Sky Group, Dana Strong, hailed Mr Hunt’s tax breaks in one of those press statements that sounds much...
Production is moving necessarily fast on the next Jurassic World film, with Gareth Edwards and his collaborators working to meet the pre-defined release date of July 2025 set by Universal Pictures.
We heard last month that filming is expected to get underway in July; in the meantime, Universal has confirmed that the sequel will film this year at Sky Studios Elstree in the UK.
The announcement was made in the wake of British chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s spring budget today (6th March) in which he announced some new tax breaks for film and TV studios as well as tax credits for UK-based indie films with budgets less than £15m.
The boss of Sky Group, Dana Strong, hailed Mr Hunt’s tax breaks in one of those press statements that sounds much...
- 3/6/2024
- by Ryan Lambie
- Film Stories
Universal Pictures’ Jurassic World 4 is set to film in the UK later this year at Sky Studios Elstree in London for Universal.
Both Universal and Sky Studios are owned by Comcast.
The untitled fourth instalment in the Jurassic World series, and the seventh in the entire franchise, was confirmed for a UK shoot by Sky Group CEO Dana Strong following the UK government’s announcement of a 40% relief on business rates for the country’s studio facilities.
“We’re delighted that the [UK] Chancellor [Jeremy Hunt] called ‘Cut’ today on TV and film studio business rates, providing vital tax relief...
Both Universal and Sky Studios are owned by Comcast.
The untitled fourth instalment in the Jurassic World series, and the seventh in the entire franchise, was confirmed for a UK shoot by Sky Group CEO Dana Strong following the UK government’s announcement of a 40% relief on business rates for the country’s studio facilities.
“We’re delighted that the [UK] Chancellor [Jeremy Hunt] called ‘Cut’ today on TV and film studio business rates, providing vital tax relief...
- 3/6/2024
- ScreenDaily
During the reading of the U.K. government’s spring budget on Wednesday, Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt revealed a 40% corporate tax relief for film and TV studios through 2034.
The plan also includes a new tax credit for independent films shot in the U.K. that have a budget less than $19 million (£15 million), and a 5% increase in credit for visual effects in film and high-end TV along with the removal of the 80% cap.
“We have become Europe’s largest film and TV production center, with Idris Elba, Keira Knightley and Orlando Bloom all filming their latest productions here,” Hunt said. “Studio space in the U.K. has doubled in the last three years, and at the current rate of expansion, next year we will be second only to Hollywood globally.”
Hunt continued to say that the government had listened “carefully to representations from companies like Pinewood, Warner Bros. and Sky Studios” when making the decision.
The plan also includes a new tax credit for independent films shot in the U.K. that have a budget less than $19 million (£15 million), and a 5% increase in credit for visual effects in film and high-end TV along with the removal of the 80% cap.
“We have become Europe’s largest film and TV production center, with Idris Elba, Keira Knightley and Orlando Bloom all filming their latest productions here,” Hunt said. “Studio space in the U.K. has doubled in the last three years, and at the current rate of expansion, next year we will be second only to Hollywood globally.”
Hunt continued to say that the government had listened “carefully to representations from companies like Pinewood, Warner Bros. and Sky Studios” when making the decision.
- 3/6/2024
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
The UK government is to introduce an indie movie tax credit for films that have budgets up to £15M ($19M), along with bringing in business rates relief for big studios and additional VFX relief.
From April 1, the new indie relief will be separate to the pre-existing film and high-end TV tax credit but both will fall under the new Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit system. The local industry has been calling for the move for months. Films will qualify if they pass a “new British film Institute test.” Productions can make claims from April 1 2025 in respect of expenditure incurred from April 1 2024.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt also announced in the past few moments that there will be a 5% increase in tax relief for UK VFX costs in film and high-end TV, while the cost cap of 80% will be removed. The government will also consult on the types of expenditure that will be in scope...
From April 1, the new indie relief will be separate to the pre-existing film and high-end TV tax credit but both will fall under the new Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit system. The local industry has been calling for the move for months. Films will qualify if they pass a “new British film Institute test.” Productions can make claims from April 1 2025 in respect of expenditure incurred from April 1 2024.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt also announced in the past few moments that there will be a 5% increase in tax relief for UK VFX costs in film and high-end TV, while the cost cap of 80% will be removed. The government will also consult on the types of expenditure that will be in scope...
- 3/6/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The U.K. government of Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak unveiled a 40 percent corporate tax relief for film and TV studio facilities until 2034 on Wednesday, introduced a new independent film incentive of 40 percent and announced an increase to an existing incentive for visual effects. The moves earned praise from entertainment industry leaders who also said that the new Jurassic World movie would start shooting in the country later this year.
Sunak’s chancellor, or finance minister, Jeremy Hunt made the announcements during his spring budget speech.
“We have become Europe’s largest film and TV production center, with Idris Elba, Keira Knightley and Orlando Bloom all filming their latest productions here,” said Hunt, adding that if production space growth continues at its current pace, the country will next year rank “second only to Hollywood” in that regard. “Studio space in the U.K. has doubled in the last three years and...
Sunak’s chancellor, or finance minister, Jeremy Hunt made the announcements during his spring budget speech.
“We have become Europe’s largest film and TV production center, with Idris Elba, Keira Knightley and Orlando Bloom all filming their latest productions here,” said Hunt, adding that if production space growth continues at its current pace, the country will next year rank “second only to Hollywood” in that regard. “Studio space in the U.K. has doubled in the last three years and...
- 3/6/2024
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sky is bringing its studios and content divisions together under Cécile Frot-Coutaz.
Frot-Coutaz, who joined the Comcast-owned outfit nearly three years ago, has been promoted and will take on an expanded role as CEO of Sky Studios and Chief Content Officer.
She will lead all of Sky’s content business excluding sport while continuing to helm studios. Sky’s UK and Ireland content teams plus Sky News across Europe will report to Frot-Coutaz, including the likes of Content MD Zai Bennett.
The move comes several weeks after Sky revealed UK and Ireland CEO Stephen van Rooyen would be stepping down at the end of February, leaving Sky’s operations in those countries to report directly to CEO Dana Strong.
Projects currently in development will not be impacted by the changes, we understand, and no layoffs will follow.
Meghan Lyvers will continue to oversee original series for Sky Studios, with...
Frot-Coutaz, who joined the Comcast-owned outfit nearly three years ago, has been promoted and will take on an expanded role as CEO of Sky Studios and Chief Content Officer.
She will lead all of Sky’s content business excluding sport while continuing to helm studios. Sky’s UK and Ireland content teams plus Sky News across Europe will report to Frot-Coutaz, including the likes of Content MD Zai Bennett.
The move comes several weeks after Sky revealed UK and Ireland CEO Stephen van Rooyen would be stepping down at the end of February, leaving Sky’s operations in those countries to report directly to CEO Dana Strong.
Projects currently in development will not be impacted by the changes, we understand, and no layoffs will follow.
Meghan Lyvers will continue to oversee original series for Sky Studios, with...
- 2/8/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Sky Studios CEO Cécile Frot-Coutaz is expanding her role to extend across the Comcast-owned media group’s entire U.K. and Ireland content business outside of sports. Her new title will be CEO of Sky Studios and chief content officer.
Zai Bennett, MD of content for Sky U.K. and Ireland, will now report to Frot-Coutaz, who joined Sky in 2021 after leadership stints at Fremantle and YouTube.
Bennett previously reported to Stephen van Rooyen, Sky CEO for U.K. and Ireland, who departs the company this month after 17 years in the job. Bennett will remain responsible for output and performance. His role includes overseeing commissions, acquisitions across the group and managing the Sky Entertainment, Sky Cinema and Sky Kids brands.
Frot-Coutaz already looked after Sky’s comedy and drama across Europe as part of her remit. She will now also lead on U.K. and Ireland content as well as Sky News across Europe,...
Zai Bennett, MD of content for Sky U.K. and Ireland, will now report to Frot-Coutaz, who joined Sky in 2021 after leadership stints at Fremantle and YouTube.
Bennett previously reported to Stephen van Rooyen, Sky CEO for U.K. and Ireland, who departs the company this month after 17 years in the job. Bennett will remain responsible for output and performance. His role includes overseeing commissions, acquisitions across the group and managing the Sky Entertainment, Sky Cinema and Sky Kids brands.
Frot-Coutaz already looked after Sky’s comedy and drama across Europe as part of her remit. She will now also lead on U.K. and Ireland content as well as Sky News across Europe,...
- 2/8/2024
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Comcast’s British TV giant Sky is cutting about 1,000 roles at it pivots away from the satellite dish and towards a streaming model, Deadline has confirmed.
The Financial Times, which broke the story, reported the cuts represent about 4% of Sky’s 27,000 staff in the UK, and we understand that figure is accurate, dependent on the results of consultations. The layoffs will be made across 2024.
Most of cuts will come from Sky’s engineering division, many of whom are staff who make home visits to install satellite dishes and fix wired issues. With Sky pivoting to a streaming model through products such as Sky Glass, a strategic decision has been made to cut staff.
A Sky spokesperson said: “The launch of Sky Glass and Sky Stream represents a shift in our business to deliver TV over IP [an internet connection] rather than satellite. Increasingly, customers are choosing Sky Glass and Sky Stream which don’t require specialist installation,...
The Financial Times, which broke the story, reported the cuts represent about 4% of Sky’s 27,000 staff in the UK, and we understand that figure is accurate, dependent on the results of consultations. The layoffs will be made across 2024.
Most of cuts will come from Sky’s engineering division, many of whom are staff who make home visits to install satellite dishes and fix wired issues. With Sky pivoting to a streaming model through products such as Sky Glass, a strategic decision has been made to cut staff.
A Sky spokesperson said: “The launch of Sky Glass and Sky Stream represents a shift in our business to deliver TV over IP [an internet connection] rather than satellite. Increasingly, customers are choosing Sky Glass and Sky Stream which don’t require specialist installation,...
- 1/30/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Stephen van Rooyen. (Courtesy photo)
Sky Group says the chief executive of its U.K. and Ireland businesses Stephen van Rooyen will step down at the end of February.
Starting this week, Sky U.K. and Ireland will be overseen by Sky Group CEO Dana Strong until a successor is named.
Van Rooyen has spent nearly two decades at Sky, overseeing its satellite and linear channel businesses as well as helping the company develop its streaming pay television service Sky Go and, later, Now TV. He also helped facilitate Sky U.K. and Ireland’s transition from an independent company whose assets were partially owned by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation toward one majority-owned by American telecommunications firm Comcast.
He started his career with Sky in 2006 as its director of product management and product marketing. He was elevated to the role of managing director for sales, marketing and brand across Sky...
Sky Group says the chief executive of its U.K. and Ireland businesses Stephen van Rooyen will step down at the end of February.
Starting this week, Sky U.K. and Ireland will be overseen by Sky Group CEO Dana Strong until a successor is named.
Van Rooyen has spent nearly two decades at Sky, overseeing its satellite and linear channel businesses as well as helping the company develop its streaming pay television service Sky Go and, later, Now TV. He also helped facilitate Sky U.K. and Ireland’s transition from an independent company whose assets were partially owned by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation toward one majority-owned by American telecommunications firm Comcast.
He started his career with Sky in 2006 as its director of product management and product marketing. He was elevated to the role of managing director for sales, marketing and brand across Sky...
- 1/22/2024
- by Matthew Keys
- The Desk
Stephen van Rooyen, CEO of Sky U.K. and Ireland, is stepping down after almost 17 years at the company. He will official depart the media conglomerate, which is owned by Comcast, in February.
Van Rooyen was also Cco for Sky Group.
His team will report to Sky group CEO Dana Strong effective immediately.
“I have taken the decision that now is the right time for me to leave Sky,” said van Rooyen. “The business today has everything it needs to compete to win. We have strong leadership, led by Dana, a world-class team, and a fantastic plan. I would like to thank every one of my colleagues for the support I’ve received and the commitment they make to Sky. It has been a real privilege, and I will always be Sky’s biggest supporter.”
Strong added: “I would like to thank Stephen for his very significant contribution to Sky over the past 18 years.
Van Rooyen was also Cco for Sky Group.
His team will report to Sky group CEO Dana Strong effective immediately.
“I have taken the decision that now is the right time for me to leave Sky,” said van Rooyen. “The business today has everything it needs to compete to win. We have strong leadership, led by Dana, a world-class team, and a fantastic plan. I would like to thank every one of my colleagues for the support I’ve received and the commitment they make to Sky. It has been a real privilege, and I will always be Sky’s biggest supporter.”
Strong added: “I would like to thank Stephen for his very significant contribution to Sky over the past 18 years.
- 1/22/2024
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Sky UK & Ireland’s CEO and Group Cco, Stephen van Rooyen, will step down at the end of next month.
Effectively immediately, Sky’s UK and Ireland operations will report directly into the Comcast-owned group’s CEO, Dana Strong.
Van Rooyen has been with Sky for nearly two decades, rising through the ranks to become UK and Ireland chief exec in 2016. He was a key part of several major products launches, such as streamer Now, Sky On-Demand, Sky Mobile and the next-gen Sky Glass TV sets.
“I would like to thank Stephen for his very significant contribution to Sky over the past 18 years,” said Strong. “He has played an instrumental role in developing and building our brand, developing and launching our products, taking our UK business into new markets, leading our people and ensuring our customers are at the heart of everything we do. He has delivered significant growth...
Effectively immediately, Sky’s UK and Ireland operations will report directly into the Comcast-owned group’s CEO, Dana Strong.
Van Rooyen has been with Sky for nearly two decades, rising through the ranks to become UK and Ireland chief exec in 2016. He was a key part of several major products launches, such as streamer Now, Sky On-Demand, Sky Mobile and the next-gen Sky Glass TV sets.
“I would like to thank Stephen for his very significant contribution to Sky over the past 18 years,” said Strong. “He has played an instrumental role in developing and building our brand, developing and launching our products, taking our UK business into new markets, leading our people and ensuring our customers are at the heart of everything we do. He has delivered significant growth...
- 1/22/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Comcast’s Sky Group said on Monday that Stephen van Rooyen has decided to leave the business at the end of February. He has served as Sky U.K. & Ireland CEO and group Cco. Effective immediately, Sky’s U.K. & Ireland business will report directly to group CEO Dana Strong.
“I would like to thank Stephen for his very significant contribution to Sky over the past 18 years,” said Strong. “He has played an instrumental role in developing and building our brand, developing and launching our products, taking our U.K. business into new markets, leading our people and ensuring our customers are at the heart of everything we do.”
She also highlighted: “He has delivered significant growth for our company and leaves an impressive legacy of achievements. Together with all of my colleagues, we wish him well for the future.”
Said van Rooyen: “I have taken the decision that now is...
“I would like to thank Stephen for his very significant contribution to Sky over the past 18 years,” said Strong. “He has played an instrumental role in developing and building our brand, developing and launching our products, taking our U.K. business into new markets, leading our people and ensuring our customers are at the heart of everything we do.”
She also highlighted: “He has delivered significant growth for our company and leaves an impressive legacy of achievements. Together with all of my colleagues, we wish him well for the future.”
Said van Rooyen: “I have taken the decision that now is...
- 1/22/2024
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sky Boss Dana Strong Stays Bullish on HBO European Content Deal Renewing in 2026: ‘We’re Optimistic’
Sky boss Dana Strong has said she is “optimistic” that Warner Discovery will renew its content deal with the European cable service when it expires in three years.
Citing the two companies’ long history, Sky’s reputation for bringing “fandom and audiences” to content and the changing attitudes to direct-to-consumer services, Strong said she thought “the logic of doing business together” would hold out.
Sky distribute a number of HBO shows such as “White Lotus” and “Succession” throughout Europe and also have co-production deals with Warner Discovery on shows including “House of the Dragon.”
“We have a very long history of partnership with Warner and we think we have represented that content extremely well and will bring brands and fandom and audiences for that content very well,” she said during a panel at the Royal Television Society conference in Cambridge, U.K. “We’re really well known for creating environments...
Citing the two companies’ long history, Sky’s reputation for bringing “fandom and audiences” to content and the changing attitudes to direct-to-consumer services, Strong said she thought “the logic of doing business together” would hold out.
Sky distribute a number of HBO shows such as “White Lotus” and “Succession” throughout Europe and also have co-production deals with Warner Discovery on shows including “House of the Dragon.”
“We have a very long history of partnership with Warner and we think we have represented that content extremely well and will bring brands and fandom and audiences for that content very well,” she said during a panel at the Royal Television Society conference in Cambridge, U.K. “We’re really well known for creating environments...
- 9/20/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
The British media and entertainment sector could be worth £53.0 billion ($65.5 billion) by 2033, up from £43.0 billion ($53.1 billion) in 2021, potentially bringing an additional £10 billion ($12.4 billion) to the U.K. economy, Comcast-owned European media and technology giant Sky said on Wednesday, unveiling a new report that also urged political leaders in the country to help companies capture the growth opportunities.
The industry giant called on the U.K. government to “unleash the creative industry’s potential” by implementing five key policy priorities, some of which were outlined by Sky group CEO Dana Strong during an appearance at the Royal Television Society (Rts) Cambridge Convention. Among them is proactive support of the development of the country’s studio infrastructure by streamlining planning processes for new facilities, a reduction in costly red tape, and a regular review of tax incentives.
“We face a unique opportunity for the U.K. to be a global powerhouse of creative production,...
The industry giant called on the U.K. government to “unleash the creative industry’s potential” by implementing five key policy priorities, some of which were outlined by Sky group CEO Dana Strong during an appearance at the Royal Television Society (Rts) Cambridge Convention. Among them is proactive support of the development of the country’s studio infrastructure by streamlining planning processes for new facilities, a reduction in costly red tape, and a regular review of tax incentives.
“We face a unique opportunity for the U.K. to be a global powerhouse of creative production,...
- 9/20/2023
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sky CEO Dana Strong has said she is “optimistic” that the company’s UK unit can keep hold of HBO content when its deal with Warner Bros. Discovery comes up for renewal in 2026.
Strong, who has led the Comcast-owned pay-tv operator for nearly three years, said that Sky had represented shows including Succession and Game of Thrones “extremely well” in the UK.
She argued that its relationships with external partners had shown that it can be better to work with Sky than against the company in wringing value out of content.
“We’re quite optimistic that the logic … of doing business together so that both parties have a better outcome in the market [means] we’ll be able to find our way through that [HBO renewal],” Strong said at the Rts Cambridge Convention.
German Sale Ruled Out?
Strong also seemingly ruled out a sale of Sky’s German unit, Sky Deutschland. She...
Strong, who has led the Comcast-owned pay-tv operator for nearly three years, said that Sky had represented shows including Succession and Game of Thrones “extremely well” in the UK.
She argued that its relationships with external partners had shown that it can be better to work with Sky than against the company in wringing value out of content.
“We’re quite optimistic that the logic … of doing business together so that both parties have a better outcome in the market [means] we’ll be able to find our way through that [HBO renewal],” Strong said at the Rts Cambridge Convention.
German Sale Ruled Out?
Strong also seemingly ruled out a sale of Sky’s German unit, Sky Deutschland. She...
- 9/20/2023
- by Jake Kanter and Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Sky CEO Is “Quite Optimistic” on HBO Pact in U.K., Signals No Sale for Germany Unit With “Potential”
Comcast-owned European TV giant Sky is optimistic about being able to continue its role as the home of HBO in the U.K. and bullish about its business opportunity in Germany, CEO Dana Strong told an industry conference on Wednesday. Her comments come during a year that has seen recurring market chatter about a possible sale of the firm’s Sky Deutschland unit in Germany and discussions about Warner Bros. Discovery’s possible future strategy for HBO in the U.K., including possibly its own streaming service.
In a keynote session at the Royal Television Society (Rts) Cambridge Convention on Wednesday, Strong answered questions about both topics and discussed her management team’s strategy for Sky, the reasoning behind their shift away from satellite to IP delivery, and more.
“Warner is up in 2026,” the Sky CEO said. “We have a very long history of partnership with Warner, and we...
In a keynote session at the Royal Television Society (Rts) Cambridge Convention on Wednesday, Strong answered questions about both topics and discussed her management team’s strategy for Sky, the reasoning behind their shift away from satellite to IP delivery, and more.
“Warner is up in 2026,” the Sky CEO said. “We have a very long history of partnership with Warner, and we...
- 9/20/2023
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
James Corden and Emma Thompson are among the industry leaders featuring in the speaker lineup of the U.K. Royal Television Society’s annual convention.
The program titled Too Much to Watch, will see Corden give his first industry interview since returning to the U.K., and Bryan Lourd, co-chair of Creative Artists Agency in conversation with Oscar and BAFTA winner Emma Thompson. The convention will also include conversations with Mike Fries, chief executive and vice chair, Liberty Global; Shay Segev, CEO, Dazn; Dana Strong, CEO, Sky; U.K. Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer; BBC director general Tim Davie and ITV CEO Carolyn McCall.
Alex Mahon, CEO of Channel 4 and convention chair, said: “I’m thrilled to confirm an outstanding cast for this year’s convention, including some of the biggest names and most provocative figures in TV, globally esteemed and savvy CEOs, and a fresh contingent of visionary media innovators.
The program titled Too Much to Watch, will see Corden give his first industry interview since returning to the U.K., and Bryan Lourd, co-chair of Creative Artists Agency in conversation with Oscar and BAFTA winner Emma Thompson. The convention will also include conversations with Mike Fries, chief executive and vice chair, Liberty Global; Shay Segev, CEO, Dazn; Dana Strong, CEO, Sky; U.K. Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer; BBC director general Tim Davie and ITV CEO Carolyn McCall.
Alex Mahon, CEO of Channel 4 and convention chair, said: “I’m thrilled to confirm an outstanding cast for this year’s convention, including some of the biggest names and most provocative figures in TV, globally esteemed and savvy CEOs, and a fresh contingent of visionary media innovators.
- 8/30/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Sky wanted to start 2023 with a bang. Comcast’s European pay-tv giant gathered journalists at London’s salubrious Soho Hotel and laid on a banquet table heaving with Danish pastries. A smorgasbord of upcoming Sky content was also on the menu, but there was really only one show on everyone’s lips. The Last of Us had recently premiered and Pedro Pascal’s blockbuster apocalypse series was in the mood to steal Sky’s thunder.
Sky is the home of HBO content in the UK and people who know the business will tell you it is both a blessing and a curse. In many respects, it is the diamond-studded crown atop Sky’s £500M ($630M) original content pile, but industry insiders say the headgear weighs heavy.
HBO makes some of the best television in the world by any standard, meaning Sky is subscription bait for Succession and Game of Thrones fans.
Sky is the home of HBO content in the UK and people who know the business will tell you it is both a blessing and a curse. In many respects, it is the diamond-studded crown atop Sky’s £500M ($630M) original content pile, but industry insiders say the headgear weighs heavy.
HBO makes some of the best television in the world by any standard, meaning Sky is subscription bait for Succession and Game of Thrones fans.
- 5/18/2023
- by Jake Kanter and Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Prime Video Lines Up ‘One For All’ Series On Belgian Soccer Players
Prime Video is set to launch One for All, a four-part doc from Neo Studios about three Belgian national team football players. Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, Inter Milan’s Romelu Lukaku and Atletico Madrid’s Axel Witsel will offer insights into the Belgian team, including assessments of the much fancied ‘Golden Generation’s disastrous 2022 World Cup performance, and their own lives across a six-month period. The doc will launch on Prime Video in the Benelux region, Spain, Italy and the UK on May 25. Watch the trailer here. Amazon has leaned in heavily to sports docs of late, including the All or Nothing franchise, Fc Bayern- Behind the Legend and Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give In.
‘Harry Potter 20th Anniversary’ Exec Joins October Films
Harry Potter 20th Anniversary exec Mohammed Adnan has joined October Films to head up its U.
Prime Video is set to launch One for All, a four-part doc from Neo Studios about three Belgian national team football players. Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois, Inter Milan’s Romelu Lukaku and Atletico Madrid’s Axel Witsel will offer insights into the Belgian team, including assessments of the much fancied ‘Golden Generation’s disastrous 2022 World Cup performance, and their own lives across a six-month period. The doc will launch on Prime Video in the Benelux region, Spain, Italy and the UK on May 25. Watch the trailer here. Amazon has leaned in heavily to sports docs of late, including the All or Nothing franchise, Fc Bayern- Behind the Legend and Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give In.
‘Harry Potter 20th Anniversary’ Exec Joins October Films
Harry Potter 20th Anniversary exec Mohammed Adnan has joined October Films to head up its U.
- 5/9/2023
- by Max Goldbart and Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Jeff Shell, the ousted CEO of NBCUniversal, forfeited compensation valued at $43 million for 2022 after being fired for cause last Sunday.
“As previously disclosed, Mr. Shell’s employment was terminated with cause on April 23, 2023. As a result, he did not receive any supplemental payments or benefits in connection with his termination. He will receive only his accrued but unpaid base salary and vacation time, vested employee benefits and reimbursement for any unreimbursed business expenses in accordance with his employment agreement. Upon his termination, all unvested PSUs and RSUs and all vested and unvested stock options, which had an estimated fair value of $43.3 million as of the termination date, were forfeited and canceled,” NBCU parent Comcast said in an SEC filing today.
Shell’s compensation for last year included $2.5 million in base pay — flat from the year before — and a $7.5 million cash bonus that was given out before the events of last week unfolded.
“As previously disclosed, Mr. Shell’s employment was terminated with cause on April 23, 2023. As a result, he did not receive any supplemental payments or benefits in connection with his termination. He will receive only his accrued but unpaid base salary and vacation time, vested employee benefits and reimbursement for any unreimbursed business expenses in accordance with his employment agreement. Upon his termination, all unvested PSUs and RSUs and all vested and unvested stock options, which had an estimated fair value of $43.3 million as of the termination date, were forfeited and canceled,” NBCU parent Comcast said in an SEC filing today.
Shell’s compensation for last year included $2.5 million in base pay — flat from the year before — and a $7.5 million cash bonus that was given out before the events of last week unfolded.
- 4/28/2023
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
As Comcast manages through the shocking and abrupt exit of NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell, the company has put senior exec Mike Cavanagh at the controls on an interim basis.
Cavanagh, who was promoted last October to president of Comcast, will play a central role in guiding the executive changeover and trying to keep NBCU on course. Although well-known and respected in corporate and financial circles, the Philadelphia-based exec has a much lower profile in Hollywood.
The unexpected new duties are landing on Cavanagh’s plate just months after he earned an important vote of confidence from CEO Brian Roberts and the company’s board of directors. His promotion from CFO to president made him the first person to hold the title outside of the Roberts family, and along with the new title came a contract extension through 2027.
Cavanagh joined Comcast as CFO in 2015, after working for 20 years in financial services,...
Cavanagh, who was promoted last October to president of Comcast, will play a central role in guiding the executive changeover and trying to keep NBCU on course. Although well-known and respected in corporate and financial circles, the Philadelphia-based exec has a much lower profile in Hollywood.
The unexpected new duties are landing on Cavanagh’s plate just months after he earned an important vote of confidence from CEO Brian Roberts and the company’s board of directors. His promotion from CFO to president made him the first person to hold the title outside of the Roberts family, and along with the new title came a contract extension through 2027.
Cavanagh joined Comcast as CFO in 2015, after working for 20 years in financial services,...
- 4/24/2023
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
African pay TV giant MultiChoice Group and Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky on Thursday unveiled a partnership that “will bring some of the world’s best content and technology to streaming customers across MultiChoice’s 50-market footprint in sub-Saharan Africa at a time when Africa is approaching an inflection point in terms of broadband connectivity and affordability.”
They will form the new Showmax group, which will be 70 percent owned by MultiChoice and 30 percent owned by NBCUniversal. “It will build on Showmax’s success to date and aim to create the leading streaming service in Africa,” the companies said. “Powered by Peacock’s leading, globally-scaled technology, Showmax subscribers will have access to an extensive premium content portfolio, bringing African audiences the best of local and international programming.”
Further details about the new Showmax service, including launch date, content and pricing will be announced at a later date.
The streaming service will...
They will form the new Showmax group, which will be 70 percent owned by MultiChoice and 30 percent owned by NBCUniversal. “It will build on Showmax’s success to date and aim to create the leading streaming service in Africa,” the companies said. “Powered by Peacock’s leading, globally-scaled technology, Showmax subscribers will have access to an extensive premium content portfolio, bringing African audiences the best of local and international programming.”
Further details about the new Showmax service, including launch date, content and pricing will be announced at a later date.
The streaming service will...
- 3/2/2023
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Former CBS News president David Rhodes has been appointed executive chairman of Sky News.
In his new pan-European role, Rhodes will be responsible for Sky’s Emea news services with a focus on commercial strategy in both the U.K. and Italy.
Rhodes, who will report to Sky Studios CEO Cecile Frot-Coutaz, has spent over 25 years in journalism, eight of which as president of CBS news. As well as leading Bloomberg Television he has also worked with the L.A. Times, Spotify and Bcg among other organisations. In 2021 he joined Sky from News U.K. as group director of international business development.
Under the new leadership structure Jonathan Levy has also been promoted from director of newsgathering and operations to managing director and executive editor of Sky News U.K., where he will be responsible for Sky’s news across multiple platforms including digital, TV and audio. He will report into Rhodes.
In his new pan-European role, Rhodes will be responsible for Sky’s Emea news services with a focus on commercial strategy in both the U.K. and Italy.
Rhodes, who will report to Sky Studios CEO Cecile Frot-Coutaz, has spent over 25 years in journalism, eight of which as president of CBS news. As well as leading Bloomberg Television he has also worked with the L.A. Times, Spotify and Bcg among other organisations. In 2021 he joined Sky from News U.K. as group director of international business development.
Under the new leadership structure Jonathan Levy has also been promoted from director of newsgathering and operations to managing director and executive editor of Sky News U.K., where he will be responsible for Sky’s news across multiple platforms including digital, TV and audio. He will report into Rhodes.
- 2/27/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Comcast-owned European TV giant Sky unveiled a new leadership structure for its Sky News Group on Monday. It named former CBS News president David Rhodes executive chairman of the Sky News Group with “overall responsibility for Sky’s news services across Europe, Middle East and Africa.”
His pan-European role “will focus on the development of a long-term commercial strategy for both Sky News U.K. and TG24 in Italy,” the news channel of Sky Italia, the company said. Rhodes will report to Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Levy was promoted to managing director and executive editor of Sky News U.K., “with the primary responsibility for the journalism on all U.K. platforms, including digital, TV and audio.”
The new leadership was set after the December news that John Ryley would depart as head of Sky News after 17 years at the helm.
“I am delighted with these appointments,...
His pan-European role “will focus on the development of a long-term commercial strategy for both Sky News U.K. and TG24 in Italy,” the news channel of Sky Italia, the company said. Rhodes will report to Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Levy was promoted to managing director and executive editor of Sky News U.K., “with the primary responsibility for the journalism on all U.K. platforms, including digital, TV and audio.”
The new leadership was set after the December news that John Ryley would depart as head of Sky News after 17 years at the helm.
“I am delighted with these appointments,...
- 2/27/2023
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
‘Dead Pixels’ Remake Set At India’s Disney+ Hotstar
India’s Disney+ Hotstar has greenlit a remake of gamer comedy Dead Pixels, the British show produced by Succession creator Jesse Armstrong, Sam Bain and Phil Clarke’s Various Artists Limited. BBC Studios India and Tamada Media are behind the remake, which will be in Telugu and follows the journey of three young friends whose lives revolve around an online video game, with the ultimate goal of defeating a virtual villain. The Indian version moves from the UK to Hyderabad, depicting the main characters’ obsession with the game and how it interferes in different aspects of their daily lives. Aditya Mandala is director, Akshay Poolla is writer and the version stars Niharika Konidela, Harsha Chemudu, Sai Ronak, Akshay Lagusani and Bhavana Sagi. The British Dead Pixels has aired for two seasons on E4 and was picked up in the U.S.
India’s Disney+ Hotstar has greenlit a remake of gamer comedy Dead Pixels, the British show produced by Succession creator Jesse Armstrong, Sam Bain and Phil Clarke’s Various Artists Limited. BBC Studios India and Tamada Media are behind the remake, which will be in Telugu and follows the journey of three young friends whose lives revolve around an online video game, with the ultimate goal of defeating a virtual villain. The Indian version moves from the UK to Hyderabad, depicting the main characters’ obsession with the game and how it interferes in different aspects of their daily lives. Aditya Mandala is director, Akshay Poolla is writer and the version stars Niharika Konidela, Harsha Chemudu, Sai Ronak, Akshay Lagusani and Bhavana Sagi. The British Dead Pixels has aired for two seasons on E4 and was picked up in the U.S.
- 2/27/2023
- by Max Goldbart and Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Sky News Boss John Ryley Steps Down
Sky News Head John Ryley is stepping down next year after almost 20 years at the helm. In a letter to colleagues over the weekend, the UK news vet said he would move on to projects “incompatible with leading a news organisation” and that the plan was always to step down by summer 2023. A new Head of News will be unveiled in the coming weeks. Ryley has overseen huge shifts in the news landscape and major stories during a 17-year tenure, including the 2008 financial crash, Brexit, the election of Donald Trump and Covid-19 pandemic. He thanked a number of people in his letter and paid tribute to “present and past colleagues for your exceptional good work, enterprise, innovation, creativity, and success.” He was in turn thanked for his “extraordinary and enduring contribution to Sky over more than two decades” by Dana Strong, Sky Group Chief Executive,...
Sky News Head John Ryley is stepping down next year after almost 20 years at the helm. In a letter to colleagues over the weekend, the UK news vet said he would move on to projects “incompatible with leading a news organisation” and that the plan was always to step down by summer 2023. A new Head of News will be unveiled in the coming weeks. Ryley has overseen huge shifts in the news landscape and major stories during a 17-year tenure, including the 2008 financial crash, Brexit, the election of Donald Trump and Covid-19 pandemic. He thanked a number of people in his letter and paid tribute to “present and past colleagues for your exceptional good work, enterprise, innovation, creativity, and success.” He was in turn thanked for his “extraordinary and enduring contribution to Sky over more than two decades” by Dana Strong, Sky Group Chief Executive,...
- 12/5/2022
- by Nancy Tartaglione, Max Goldbart and Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Comcast Corporation has promoted Mike Cavanagh to president, making him the third person to occupy the role in the company’s 59-year history. He will continue to serve as chief financial officer in addition to working closely with chairman-ceo Brian Roberts on managing the company’s cable and broadband operations as well as NBCUniversal.
“Today’s promotion will come as no surprise – Mike is admired and trusted by those who know and work with him,” Roberts said. “Mike has brought incredible operational and financial expertise to Comcast and is an integral part of our special company. He’s an outstanding partner and together we are focused on continuing to create new and exciting opportunities for growth.”
Cavanagh cited the company’s “exceptional businesses with world-class executives,” naming Sky CEO Dana Strong, Comcast Cable chief Dave Watson and NBCU chief executive Jeff Shell. “I look forward to working together to shape the bright future of Comcast.
“Today’s promotion will come as no surprise – Mike is admired and trusted by those who know and work with him,” Roberts said. “Mike has brought incredible operational and financial expertise to Comcast and is an integral part of our special company. He’s an outstanding partner and together we are focused on continuing to create new and exciting opportunities for growth.”
Cavanagh cited the company’s “exceptional businesses with world-class executives,” naming Sky CEO Dana Strong, Comcast Cable chief Dave Watson and NBCU chief executive Jeff Shell. “I look forward to working together to shape the bright future of Comcast.
- 10/12/2022
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
NBCUniversal parent Comcast has promoted CFO Mike Cavanagh to president, working closely with chairman-ceo Brian Roberts to manage the business and teams across the sprawling company.
He’ll only be the third executive to hold that title in the company’s 59-year history, Comcast noted, and will also remain chief financial officer.
“Today’s promotion will come as no surprise – Mike is admired and trusted by those who know and work with him,” said Roberts. “Mike has brought incredible operational and financial expertise to Comcast and is an integral part of our special company. He’s an outstanding partner and together we are focused on continuing to create new and exciting opportunities for growth.”
“It’s an honor to work with Brian to lead this great company,” Cavanagh added. “We have exceptional businesses with world-class executives in Dana, Dave and Jeff, and I’m proud to call them my partners.
He’ll only be the third executive to hold that title in the company’s 59-year history, Comcast noted, and will also remain chief financial officer.
“Today’s promotion will come as no surprise – Mike is admired and trusted by those who know and work with him,” said Roberts. “Mike has brought incredible operational and financial expertise to Comcast and is an integral part of our special company. He’s an outstanding partner and together we are focused on continuing to create new and exciting opportunities for growth.”
“It’s an honor to work with Brian to lead this great company,” Cavanagh added. “We have exceptional businesses with world-class executives in Dana, Dave and Jeff, and I’m proud to call them my partners.
- 10/12/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
‘Evolution Earth’ Greenlit By PBS, Arte, Sky Nature and Love Nature
PBS, Arte, Sky Nature and Love Nature have joined together on a natural history series, Evolution Earth, revealing how animals are adapting to our changing planet and evolving before our eyes. The five-parter will debut on Love Nature’s global linear and streaming platforms and on Sky Nature in the UK and Italy. PBS will premiere the series in the U.S. and Arte will air in France and Germany. Produced by Passion Planet, the show is shot in extreme locations around the world and dives into the ingenuity of wild species to adapt to bigger storms, longer droughts and warming oceans, for example, while pointing to how humans may also need to adapt to the global changes around us. With numerous co-production partners, it is testament to how natural history programing is developing. Blue Ant International is distributing outside of commissioning territories,...
PBS, Arte, Sky Nature and Love Nature have joined together on a natural history series, Evolution Earth, revealing how animals are adapting to our changing planet and evolving before our eyes. The five-parter will debut on Love Nature’s global linear and streaming platforms and on Sky Nature in the UK and Italy. PBS will premiere the series in the U.S. and Arte will air in France and Germany. Produced by Passion Planet, the show is shot in extreme locations around the world and dives into the ingenuity of wild species to adapt to bigger storms, longer droughts and warming oceans, for example, while pointing to how humans may also need to adapt to the global changes around us. With numerous co-production partners, it is testament to how natural history programing is developing. Blue Ant International is distributing outside of commissioning territories,...
- 6/20/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
SkyShowtime, the European streaming joint venture of Comcast and Paramount Global, has named Jon Farrar, who has served in key roles at BBC commercial arm BBC Studios, head of programming.
Farrar led the direct-to-consumer programming strategy at the company as global VOD director and editor in chief of North American SVOD service BBC Select.
Paramount and Comcast had in August struck a deal to launch a new subscription video-on-demand service in more than 20 European territories, including Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland this year. The territories encompass 90 million homes.
In January, the partners named Monty Sarhan the CEO of the joint streaming business. The executive, who had joined Comcast Cable in late 2019 as senior vp content acquisition after working at Epix, also has experience at Viacom, which merged with CBS in late 2019, with the combined company...
SkyShowtime, the European streaming joint venture of Comcast and Paramount Global, has named Jon Farrar, who has served in key roles at BBC commercial arm BBC Studios, head of programming.
Farrar led the direct-to-consumer programming strategy at the company as global VOD director and editor in chief of North American SVOD service BBC Select.
Paramount and Comcast had in August struck a deal to launch a new subscription video-on-demand service in more than 20 European territories, including Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland this year. The territories encompass 90 million homes.
In January, the partners named Monty Sarhan the CEO of the joint streaming business. The executive, who had joined Comcast Cable in late 2019 as senior vp content acquisition after working at Epix, also has experience at Viacom, which merged with CBS in late 2019, with the combined company...
- 6/13/2022
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Hello and welcome back to Deadline’s International Insider. If you’re not in Cannes enjoying the sun-soaked days and balmy evenings along the Croisette, allow us to provide you with everything you need to know, plus provide the lowdown on another big week in international entertainment.
Cannesdemonium
A matter of principle: Diana Lodderhose here reporting from Cannes. The 75th edition of the Cannes Film Festival is well underway and the sun is shining on international delegates for what feels like a return to pre-pandemic days. Deadline kicked off the week with a bang with Andreas’ exclusive about Cannes demanding copy approval as a condition for interviews with its chief Thierry Frémaux. After sitting down with the festival head in Paris last month, our International Editor was asked by the Cannes press department to water down and remove certain quotes, including comments about Roman Polanski and a lack of female directors.
Cannesdemonium
A matter of principle: Diana Lodderhose here reporting from Cannes. The 75th edition of the Cannes Film Festival is well underway and the sun is shining on international delegates for what feels like a return to pre-pandemic days. Deadline kicked off the week with a bang with Andreas’ exclusive about Cannes demanding copy approval as a condition for interviews with its chief Thierry Frémaux. After sitting down with the festival head in Paris last month, our International Editor was asked by the Cannes press department to water down and remove certain quotes, including comments about Roman Polanski and a lack of female directors.
- 5/20/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Sky has unveiled a second series of I Hate Suzie and an adaptation of The Tattooist of Auschwitz, while confirming Universal Pictures’ Wicked will be one of the first projects to be filmed at Elstree Studios, relocating from the U.S.
The Comcast-owned outfit is to present the news at a glitzy London event taking place this evening, led by the announcements about Wicked, the new TV dramas, and comedies featuring Sheridan Smith, Katherine Ryan and Suranne Jones.
Sky is upping its original commissioning by 60 to 200 shows this year, revealed by CEO Dana Strong last week.
Meanwhile, a host of Sky Original films including Letitia Wright-starring Aisha, Colin Farrell’s After Yang, political thriller The Independent (Brian Cox, Jodie Turner-Smith, John Cena, Ann Dowd) and Liam Hemsworth/Russell Crowe-featuring Poker Face are all coming to the UK platform, according to Sky.
Sky Studios Elstree, the brand spanking...
The Comcast-owned outfit is to present the news at a glitzy London event taking place this evening, led by the announcements about Wicked, the new TV dramas, and comedies featuring Sheridan Smith, Katherine Ryan and Suranne Jones.
Sky is upping its original commissioning by 60 to 200 shows this year, revealed by CEO Dana Strong last week.
Meanwhile, a host of Sky Original films including Letitia Wright-starring Aisha, Colin Farrell’s After Yang, political thriller The Independent (Brian Cox, Jodie Turner-Smith, John Cena, Ann Dowd) and Liam Hemsworth/Russell Crowe-featuring Poker Face are all coming to the UK platform, according to Sky.
Sky Studios Elstree, the brand spanking...
- 5/17/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Pay TV operator Sky is continuing to invest big in the U.K.
The Comcast owned outfit has trebled its output of U.K.-originated content from 2019 to 200 originals in 2022 with an investment of £500 million (610 million), said Dana Strong, group CEO of Sky, on Thursday.
Strong was bullish about the impending opening of the Sky Studios Elstree that will host Sky originals in addition to film and television content from the Universal group.
“We’re very excited about it, there are 13 sound stages and Elstree will bring £3 billion [3.6 billion] of production into the U.K. over five years, and thousands of jobs opportunities,” Strong said.
Strong was speaking at the Deloitte and Enders Media and Telecoms conference, an in-person event attended by the heads of all the U.K. public service broadcasters (Psb), the BBC, Channel 4, Channel 5 and Stv.
Strong said that the relationship between Sky and the PSBs “could not be stronger.
The Comcast owned outfit has trebled its output of U.K.-originated content from 2019 to 200 originals in 2022 with an investment of £500 million (610 million), said Dana Strong, group CEO of Sky, on Thursday.
Strong was bullish about the impending opening of the Sky Studios Elstree that will host Sky originals in addition to film and television content from the Universal group.
“We’re very excited about it, there are 13 sound stages and Elstree will bring £3 billion [3.6 billion] of production into the U.K. over five years, and thousands of jobs opportunities,” Strong said.
Strong was speaking at the Deloitte and Enders Media and Telecoms conference, an in-person event attended by the heads of all the U.K. public service broadcasters (Psb), the BBC, Channel 4, Channel 5 and Stv.
Strong said that the relationship between Sky and the PSBs “could not be stronger.
- 5/12/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Sky is making 200 originals in 2022, CEO Dana Strong has said, while talking up the pay-tv giant’s relationship with the Public Service Broadcasters (Psb) as having “never been stronger” and revealing that 30 of BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5’s content is watched on the platform.
The number of originals has trebled over three years and is testament to Sky’s commitment to its original content pivot, said Strong.
Speaking at the Deloitte and Enders Media and Telecoms conference, Strong said she is “extraordinarily respectful” of these PSBs at a time when they are under threat, with the BBC license fee frozen for two years and Channel 4 set to be privatized.
“The role Psb plays could not be more important in UK culture,” she added. “The history of storytelling in the UK is profound and I couldn’t be more supportive. Connecting people with the content they love works...
The number of originals has trebled over three years and is testament to Sky’s commitment to its original content pivot, said Strong.
Speaking at the Deloitte and Enders Media and Telecoms conference, Strong said she is “extraordinarily respectful” of these PSBs at a time when they are under threat, with the BBC license fee frozen for two years and Channel 4 set to be privatized.
“The role Psb plays could not be more important in UK culture,” she added. “The history of storytelling in the UK is profound and I couldn’t be more supportive. Connecting people with the content they love works...
- 5/12/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Total compensation last year for Comcast chief executive Brian Roberts was 33.9 million, up 3.8 from 32.7 million the year before.
It included a salary of 3.2 million, stock awards of 13.5 million, option awards of 8.5 million, non-equity incentive plan compensation (cash bonus) of 8.6 million and other items worth close to 2 million.
Jeff Shell, the CEO of NBCUniversal, made 21.5 million last year, up from 16.5 million in 2020, according to the entertainment giant’s proxy filed with the SEC today that lists the salaries of companies’ top five highest paid executives. Shell does not make the list every year.
His pay jumped on a boost in non-equity incentive plan compensation to 9.9 million from 5.8 million and a higher stock awards from the year before.
Chief financial officer Mike Cavanagh earned 27.4 million.
Dave Watson, the CEO of Comcast Cable, earned 22.7 million.
Compensation is a mix of quantitative factors — like hitting certain financial metrics — and qualitative factors. In the proxy’s discussion of pay,...
It included a salary of 3.2 million, stock awards of 13.5 million, option awards of 8.5 million, non-equity incentive plan compensation (cash bonus) of 8.6 million and other items worth close to 2 million.
Jeff Shell, the CEO of NBCUniversal, made 21.5 million last year, up from 16.5 million in 2020, according to the entertainment giant’s proxy filed with the SEC today that lists the salaries of companies’ top five highest paid executives. Shell does not make the list every year.
His pay jumped on a boost in non-equity incentive plan compensation to 9.9 million from 5.8 million and a higher stock awards from the year before.
Chief financial officer Mike Cavanagh earned 27.4 million.
Dave Watson, the CEO of Comcast Cable, earned 22.7 million.
Compensation is a mix of quantitative factors — like hitting certain financial metrics — and qualitative factors. In the proxy’s discussion of pay,...
- 4/22/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Jeff Shell, CEO of Comcast-owned NBCUniversal, saw his total compensation climb to 21.6 million last year, up 30 over the year prior — the biggest pay bump among Comcast’s top execs in 2021.
Comcast chairman and CEO Brian Roberts’ pay package rose 3.7 in 2021, to 34 million. The disclosures came in the cable and entertainment giant’s proxy statement filing with the SEC Friday.
Shell, who oversees NBCU’s studios, networks, theme parks, and the Peacock streaming service, in 2021 earned 2.5 million in base salary, plus 5.5 million in stock, 3.4 million in stock options, a 9.98 million bonus and 165,000 in other compensation.
“Mr. Shell continued to successfully lead and mitigate negative pandemic impacts on NBCUniversal in 2021,” the Comcast board’s compensation committee said in the proxy. It said NBCU’s financial performance “rebounded well in 2021,” with revenue increasing by 26.1 to 34.3 billion and adjusted Ebitda increasing by 6 to 5.7 billion (including Peacock losses).
Roberts’ 2021 salary was 3.25 million, alongside 13.5 million in stock,...
Comcast chairman and CEO Brian Roberts’ pay package rose 3.7 in 2021, to 34 million. The disclosures came in the cable and entertainment giant’s proxy statement filing with the SEC Friday.
Shell, who oversees NBCU’s studios, networks, theme parks, and the Peacock streaming service, in 2021 earned 2.5 million in base salary, plus 5.5 million in stock, 3.4 million in stock options, a 9.98 million bonus and 165,000 in other compensation.
“Mr. Shell continued to successfully lead and mitigate negative pandemic impacts on NBCUniversal in 2021,” the Comcast board’s compensation committee said in the proxy. It said NBCU’s financial performance “rebounded well in 2021,” with revenue increasing by 26.1 to 34.3 billion and adjusted Ebitda increasing by 6 to 5.7 billion (including Peacock losses).
Roberts’ 2021 salary was 3.25 million, alongside 13.5 million in stock,...
- 4/22/2022
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
The house from Tobe Hooper’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre has been through a lot of changes over the years, but there are some things that haven’t changed about the old place. Cooking and consumption still take place on the property, but human meat is not on the menu.
Today, the house is now the Grand Central Café and Club Car Bar, situated next to The Antlers Inn in Kingsland, Texas. The café serves more traditional cuisine—breakfast, soup, burgers, etc.—and is situated next to the picturesque Lake Lyndon B. Johnson (Lbj), and the house and surrounding area are a beautiful sight. And if Franklin, Sally, and company stopped on the premises looking for gas, they would surely get a much friendlier welcome than they received from the Sawyer family.
The house is one of the most iconic horror movie locations ever, and the real history of...
Today, the house is now the Grand Central Café and Club Car Bar, situated next to The Antlers Inn in Kingsland, Texas. The café serves more traditional cuisine—breakfast, soup, burgers, etc.—and is situated next to the picturesque Lake Lyndon B. Johnson (Lbj), and the house and surrounding area are a beautiful sight. And if Franklin, Sally, and company stopped on the premises looking for gas, they would surely get a much friendlier welcome than they received from the Sawyer family.
The house is one of the most iconic horror movie locations ever, and the real history of...
- 2/17/2022
- by James Doherty
- DailyDead
Sky executive Jane Millichip, a distribution leader and a driving force behind the company’s sustainability drive, is leaving the company after almost 10 years.
News of the executive’s departure was revealed to staff in a memo from Sky Studios CEO Cécile Frot-Coutaz on Tuesday morning. Millichip, who currently serves as chief content officer for Sky Studios, is leaving the company after nine years. She first joined the business in 2013.
Millichip, a well-respected executive in the U.K. industry, made her mark at Sky through her leadership of the company’s in-house distribution banner Sky Vision, which was folded into NBCUniversal International Distribution following Comcast’s acquisition of Sky in 2018.
Under Millichip, Sky Vision grew from £8 million ($10.8 million) in revenues to £250 million ($338 million) in just six years. The executive was also key in growing the company’s investments in independent production companies, such as “Great British Bake Off” outfit Love Productions.
News of the executive’s departure was revealed to staff in a memo from Sky Studios CEO Cécile Frot-Coutaz on Tuesday morning. Millichip, who currently serves as chief content officer for Sky Studios, is leaving the company after nine years. She first joined the business in 2013.
Millichip, a well-respected executive in the U.K. industry, made her mark at Sky through her leadership of the company’s in-house distribution banner Sky Vision, which was folded into NBCUniversal International Distribution following Comcast’s acquisition of Sky in 2018.
Under Millichip, Sky Vision grew from £8 million ($10.8 million) in revenues to £250 million ($338 million) in just six years. The executive was also key in growing the company’s investments in independent production companies, such as “Great British Bake Off” outfit Love Productions.
- 2/8/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Comcast-owned Sky Group has implemented hybrid working across its European arm.
The U.K. government’s work from home directive ended Monday.
But Sky, led by group chief executive Dana Strong, has implemented a new model that will see its employees continue to split their time between Sky’s offices and home.
And in order to ensure every staff member has a primary office location to work from, the company is also opening a new building, set to house 600 staff in Covid-secure conditions, on its London campus. When opened, the building will be Sky’s first fully net zero carbon property. It will also include over 5,000 sq feet of solar panels.
Sky’s London campus, which as well as offices includes food outlets, gyms, sports shop, hair and beauty services, mailroom and dry cleaning, currently caters to 8,000 employees.
Employees won’t be able to work from just anywhere, however.
The U.K. government’s work from home directive ended Monday.
But Sky, led by group chief executive Dana Strong, has implemented a new model that will see its employees continue to split their time between Sky’s offices and home.
And in order to ensure every staff member has a primary office location to work from, the company is also opening a new building, set to house 600 staff in Covid-secure conditions, on its London campus. When opened, the building will be Sky’s first fully net zero carbon property. It will also include over 5,000 sq feet of solar panels.
Sky’s London campus, which as well as offices includes food outlets, gyms, sports shop, hair and beauty services, mailroom and dry cleaning, currently caters to 8,000 employees.
Employees won’t be able to work from just anywhere, however.
- 1/24/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Comcast-backed pay-tv operator Sky is setting out to support more Black-owned and led businesses in the U.K. through a £1 million ($1.3 million) fund, with plans to grow diversity in Sky’s supply chain in the future.
The initiative is targeted specifically at Black entrepreneurs and is in addition to the £30 million that was earmarked over three years in June 2020 to improve Black and minority ethnic representation at all levels within Sky and elsewhere.
The new allocation of funds will support Black business founders by delivering practical solutions to succeed, including a combination of business advice, mentoring and financial support; and creating the opportunity to access Sky’s own supply chain.
As part of a Variety investigation into diversity in the U.K. production sector, Sky said last month that it doesn’t track the ownership diversity of its production partners, “but is investigating how this can be done so we can track going forward.
The initiative is targeted specifically at Black entrepreneurs and is in addition to the £30 million that was earmarked over three years in June 2020 to improve Black and minority ethnic representation at all levels within Sky and elsewhere.
The new allocation of funds will support Black business founders by delivering practical solutions to succeed, including a combination of business advice, mentoring and financial support; and creating the opportunity to access Sky’s own supply chain.
As part of a Variety investigation into diversity in the U.K. production sector, Sky said last month that it doesn’t track the ownership diversity of its production partners, “but is investigating how this can be done so we can track going forward.
- 12/20/2021
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Sky has embraced the cord-cutting revolution by launching a TV product that doesn’t require a satellite dish, described by CEO Dana Strong as the “first platform to fully integrate content from local broadcasters to global giants.”
Unveiled at a swanky event in London’s Greenwich this morning, Sky Glass will offer Sky subscription packages that start at £13 per month after the cost of TV. Sky CEO, UK and Ireland, Stephen van Rooyen, said the TV products are around 30% less than the average on the market.
The product is effectively a smart television, with no requirement for satellite dish, as the Comcast-owned pay-tv giant adapts to a world in which cord-cutting has become the norm.
It will launch in the UK later this month and roll out in more territories next year.
The platform is ‘voice first’ and was described by various senior Sky execs as the natural evolution from Sky Q.
Unveiled at a swanky event in London’s Greenwich this morning, Sky Glass will offer Sky subscription packages that start at £13 per month after the cost of TV. Sky CEO, UK and Ireland, Stephen van Rooyen, said the TV products are around 30% less than the average on the market.
The product is effectively a smart television, with no requirement for satellite dish, as the Comcast-owned pay-tv giant adapts to a world in which cord-cutting has become the norm.
It will launch in the UK later this month and roll out in more territories next year.
The platform is ‘voice first’ and was described by various senior Sky execs as the natural evolution from Sky Q.
- 10/7/2021
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Comcast-Owned Sky Ditches Satellite Dish and Cable Box With Launch of ‘Sky Glass’ Streaming Hardware
Comcast-owned British broadcaster Sky has unveiled Sky Glass, a new streaming television and “innovation platform.”
The almost entirely wireless television is a large screen that can be installed swiftly and only requires an Internet connection to operate — dispensing with the need for a satellite dish or cable box.
The service will amalgamate shows and films from each different streaming service in one place, allowing users to search by title or category without having to log into each one separately, including Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Sky’s own Now service, among others. It will even allow users to seamlessly watch shows where seasons are split between different streaming services due to licensing constraints.
“[This is] Sky embracing aggregation as a strategy,” said Sky CEO Dana Strong during a press event for the launch on Thursday morning in London, U.K.
At the moment, the television will only...
The almost entirely wireless television is a large screen that can be installed swiftly and only requires an Internet connection to operate — dispensing with the need for a satellite dish or cable box.
The service will amalgamate shows and films from each different streaming service in one place, allowing users to search by title or category without having to log into each one separately, including Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Sky’s own Now service, among others. It will even allow users to seamlessly watch shows where seasons are split between different streaming services due to licensing constraints.
“[This is] Sky embracing aggregation as a strategy,” said Sky CEO Dana Strong during a press event for the launch on Thursday morning in London, U.K.
At the moment, the television will only...
- 10/7/2021
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Comcast-owned European pay TV giant Sky has unveiled a broadband-powered TV set, dubbed “Sky Glass,” that doesn’t require a satellite dish to access its full suite of services and has new features, including a playlist that compiles content from across Sky and streaming services.
The product will launch in the U.K. later this month, followed by other markets next year. Sky, led by CEO Dana Strong, had pre-announced that it would on Thursday unveil “something magical.”
During her remarks at a launch event in London, Strong said “we spend more time searching for content ...
The product will launch in the U.K. later this month, followed by other markets next year. Sky, led by CEO Dana Strong, had pre-announced that it would on Thursday unveil “something magical.”
During her remarks at a launch event in London, Strong said “we spend more time searching for content ...
- 10/7/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Comcast-owned European pay TV giant Sky has unveiled a broadband-powered TV set, dubbed “Sky Glass,” that doesn’t require a satellite dish to access its full suite of services and has new features, including a playlist that compiles content from across Sky and streaming services.
The product will launch in the U.K. later this month, followed by other markets next year. Sky, led by CEO Dana Strong, had pre-announced that it would on Thursday unveil “something magical.”
During her remarks at a launch event in London, Strong said “we spend more time searching for content ...
The product will launch in the U.K. later this month, followed by other markets next year. Sky, led by CEO Dana Strong, had pre-announced that it would on Thursday unveil “something magical.”
During her remarks at a launch event in London, Strong said “we spend more time searching for content ...
- 10/7/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Happy Friday International Insiders. Tom Grater here coming to you live from the San Sebastian Film Festival with the week’s top international news. To get this sent to your inbox every Friday, sign up here.
A Royal Affair
On the block: One subject above all others dominated this week’s Royal Television Society Convention: the potential sale of iconic UK broadcaster Channel 4. Everyone had an opinion on the sale of The Great British Bake Off, Gogglebox and It’s A Sin channel. Or they tied themselves in knots trying not to have one. The government made its position clear late on Tuesday night with a press release from Dcms and Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden laying out the reasons why the Conservatives want privatization. Dowden was meant to deliver a keynote on the subject later that day, however he got the chop as part of Boris Johnson’s reshuffle. His...
A Royal Affair
On the block: One subject above all others dominated this week’s Royal Television Society Convention: the potential sale of iconic UK broadcaster Channel 4. Everyone had an opinion on the sale of The Great British Bake Off, Gogglebox and It’s A Sin channel. Or they tied themselves in knots trying not to have one. The government made its position clear late on Tuesday night with a press release from Dcms and Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden laying out the reasons why the Conservatives want privatization. Dowden was meant to deliver a keynote on the subject later that day, however he got the chop as part of Boris Johnson’s reshuffle. His...
- 9/17/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
In her first on-stage interview since she became CEO of European pay-tv giant Sky, Dana Strong discussed the Comcast-owned broadcaster’s recent deal with ViacomCBS in Europe, the potential sale of Channel 4 and her favorite TV shows.
Strong became Sky Group CEO in early 2021, taking over from longtime boss Jeremy Darroch, who led the company for 13 years. Prior to taking the reins at Sky, Strong was President of Consumer Services for Comcast Cable, and before that served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Virgin Media and Chief Transformation Officer of Liberty Global.
In her discussion with Sky journalist Beth Rigby, Strong regularly sounded notes of optimism about how the company was responding to the challenges posed by SVODs and shifting viewing habits.
“Our industry is incredibly resilient and adaptable. The level of innovation gives me an enormous confidence. Despite all the rumored demise in the press, the...
Strong became Sky Group CEO in early 2021, taking over from longtime boss Jeremy Darroch, who led the company for 13 years. Prior to taking the reins at Sky, Strong was President of Consumer Services for Comcast Cable, and before that served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Virgin Media and Chief Transformation Officer of Liberty Global.
In her discussion with Sky journalist Beth Rigby, Strong regularly sounded notes of optimism about how the company was responding to the challenges posed by SVODs and shifting viewing habits.
“Our industry is incredibly resilient and adaptable. The level of innovation gives me an enormous confidence. Despite all the rumored demise in the press, the...
- 9/15/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Sky’s new American CEO Dana Strong has touted the U.K. as an “imperative market” for parent company Comcast as it looks to grow its investment in local infrastructure, and strengthen its European partnerships.
Speaking at the Royal Television Society conference in Cambridge on Wednesday, where she was interviewed by Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, Strong made her first public address since taking the reins as CEO at the pay-tv operator in January.
Strong kept her cards close to the chest throughout the session, diplomatically dodging questions about the health of the U.K. market, which is being disrupted in a major way by streaming services — a strained reality that’s traditionally a central topic of discussion at the annual conference. “You don’t respond to the rumored anxieties in the market,” declared Strong.
“You’ve got to look at the fundamental principles,” she continued. “Looking at the [public-service broadcasting] market,...
Speaking at the Royal Television Society conference in Cambridge on Wednesday, where she was interviewed by Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, Strong made her first public address since taking the reins as CEO at the pay-tv operator in January.
Strong kept her cards close to the chest throughout the session, diplomatically dodging questions about the health of the U.K. market, which is being disrupted in a major way by streaming services — a strained reality that’s traditionally a central topic of discussion at the annual conference. “You don’t respond to the rumored anxieties in the market,” declared Strong.
“You’ve got to look at the fundamental principles,” she continued. “Looking at the [public-service broadcasting] market,...
- 9/15/2021
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
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