Albert Cheng has been promoted to vice president of Amazon Prime Video U.S. He most recently served as chief operating officer of Amazon Studios.
The news came Wednesday in a staff memo written by Mike Hopkins, senior vice president of Prime Video and Amazon Studios. Cheng enters the newly created position effective immediately and will report to Hopkins.
2022 has been a banner year for Amazon’s studio and streaming service, especially with the launch of “The Rings of Power,” the latest entry into the “Lord of the Rings” franchise. According to Hopkins, responsibilities under Cheng’s purview will include revenue growth, brand strategy, marketing operations and customer acquisition.
Cheng joined Amazon in 2018. Previously, he has held positions at BMI, Disney, Lifetime and Fox.
See Hopkins’ full memo below.
Team,
2022 has been a very strong year marked by tremendous growth and success for Prime Video. From acquiring MGM to the...
The news came Wednesday in a staff memo written by Mike Hopkins, senior vice president of Prime Video and Amazon Studios. Cheng enters the newly created position effective immediately and will report to Hopkins.
2022 has been a banner year for Amazon’s studio and streaming service, especially with the launch of “The Rings of Power,” the latest entry into the “Lord of the Rings” franchise. According to Hopkins, responsibilities under Cheng’s purview will include revenue growth, brand strategy, marketing operations and customer acquisition.
Cheng joined Amazon in 2018. Previously, he has held positions at BMI, Disney, Lifetime and Fox.
See Hopkins’ full memo below.
Team,
2022 has been a very strong year marked by tremendous growth and success for Prime Video. From acquiring MGM to the...
- 9/21/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
On a picturesque evening in Culver City, California, as the sun began to set and temperatures settled on the perfect side of warm, the cast of “Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,” stepped through golden framed archways and a small forest of wondrous ancient-looking trees of amber for the premiere of Amazon Prime Video’s big-budget gamble in the fantasy drama world.
But the big stars at the event were really Amazon’s top brass: executive chairman Jeff Bezos; president and CEO Andy Jassy; Jeff Blackburn, the senior vice president of media and entertainment; and SVP of Prime Video, MGM and Amazon Studios Mike Hopkins.
The presence of the the company’s biggest leaders joining Amazon Studios head Jennifer Salke, chief executive officer Albert Cheng and Vernon Sanders, the head of global TV for Amazon Studios, was a key indicator that Amazon is going “full guns blazing, all...
But the big stars at the event were really Amazon’s top brass: executive chairman Jeff Bezos; president and CEO Andy Jassy; Jeff Blackburn, the senior vice president of media and entertainment; and SVP of Prime Video, MGM and Amazon Studios Mike Hopkins.
The presence of the the company’s biggest leaders joining Amazon Studios head Jennifer Salke, chief executive officer Albert Cheng and Vernon Sanders, the head of global TV for Amazon Studios, was a key indicator that Amazon is going “full guns blazing, all...
- 8/30/2022
- by Jolie Lash
- The Wrap
Amazon’s Prime Video is going big with fall TV, launching the most expensive TV series in history, “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,” and taking full control of NFL’s “Thursday Night Football.” But on the film side, things are a little less groundbreaking and more in flux as the industry waits to see what the e-commerce giant plans to do with MGM and which top movie-studio exec Amazon will select to run its film business.
Among those whom Variety hears Amazon has spoken with in recent weeks are Netflix film chief Scott Stuber, Paramount Pictures alum Emma Watts and Warner Bros. vet Toby Emmerich. But according to multiple sources familiar with the matter, though Amazon “loved” Watts and doesn’t see Stuber as being interested in this type of role, deliberations are far from over and Amazon still has distance to go before the top film exec is chosen.
Among those whom Variety hears Amazon has spoken with in recent weeks are Netflix film chief Scott Stuber, Paramount Pictures alum Emma Watts and Warner Bros. vet Toby Emmerich. But according to multiple sources familiar with the matter, though Amazon “loved” Watts and doesn’t see Stuber as being interested in this type of role, deliberations are far from over and Amazon still has distance to go before the top film exec is chosen.
- 8/23/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
The “Tomb Raider” franchise must explore a new studio.
MGM has returned the rights to producer Graham King and his Gk Films after owning the IP for nine years. Lead star of the 2018 reboot, Alicia Vikander, is also expected to be recast. The Wrap first reported the news.
Opening bids for the rights have spurred a bidding war since last week, with studios and streamers looking to acquire the adventure IP based on the 1996 videogame series of the same name. Angelina Jolie starred in previously Paramount’s “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” in 2001 and sequel “Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life” in 2003.
Vikander led MGM and Gk Films’ reboot “Tomb Raider,” which earned 275 million worldwide and was slated to have a sequel helmed by “Lovecraft Country” creator Misha Green.
Vikander gave an update that a follow-up is “in somebody else’s hands” after the Amazon buyout of MGM for...
MGM has returned the rights to producer Graham King and his Gk Films after owning the IP for nine years. Lead star of the 2018 reboot, Alicia Vikander, is also expected to be recast. The Wrap first reported the news.
Opening bids for the rights have spurred a bidding war since last week, with studios and streamers looking to acquire the adventure IP based on the 1996 videogame series of the same name. Angelina Jolie starred in previously Paramount’s “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” in 2001 and sequel “Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life” in 2003.
Vikander led MGM and Gk Films’ reboot “Tomb Raider,” which earned 275 million worldwide and was slated to have a sequel helmed by “Lovecraft Country” creator Misha Green.
Vikander gave an update that a follow-up is “in somebody else’s hands” after the Amazon buyout of MGM for...
- 7/29/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
In a sign that Amazon is enmeshing itself even further into the entertainment industry, Jeff Bezos is adding one of Hollywood’s own to his inner circle.
Mike Hopkins, Sony Pictures Television’s chairman of the past two and a half years, is decamping from the studio to become senior vice president of Prime Video and Amazon Studios on Feb. 24, reporting directly to Bezos, the chairman and CEO of the tech behemoth. Hopkins will effectively be the highest-ranked industry player at the company.
In hiring Hopkins, Amazon is telegraphing “that we are serious about this, we are investing in it — and we want the best players to come work with us,” says Peter Csathy, founder of consulting and investment firm Creatv Media. Hopkins is “a brand name in the streaming business, and that alone brings credibility.”
With a long career that includes four years as CEO of Hulu along with...
Mike Hopkins, Sony Pictures Television’s chairman of the past two and a half years, is decamping from the studio to become senior vice president of Prime Video and Amazon Studios on Feb. 24, reporting directly to Bezos, the chairman and CEO of the tech behemoth. Hopkins will effectively be the highest-ranked industry player at the company.
In hiring Hopkins, Amazon is telegraphing “that we are serious about this, we are investing in it — and we want the best players to come work with us,” says Peter Csathy, founder of consulting and investment firm Creatv Media. Hopkins is “a brand name in the streaming business, and that alone brings credibility.”
With a long career that includes four years as CEO of Hulu along with...
- 2/12/2020
- by Elaine Low and Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon has snapped up North American rights to an Emily Blunt-fronted western from the BBC, Variety has learned.
The streaming giant is understood to have boarded “The English,” which has attached the “Quiet Place” actor as its lead. The multi-part series is produced by “Doctor Foster” firm Drama Republic, whose credits include BBC Two and SundanceTV spy thriller “The Honorable Woman,” as well as Netflix and BBC Two co-production “Black Earth Rising.”
The series is the latest from writer-director Hugo Blick, who broke out with “Honorable Woman” in 2014. The Golden Globe and Peabody-winning drama was one of the first high-end shows to feature actors traditionally seen in film crossing over into the TV space, and featured Maggie Gyllenhaal as a woman who inherits her family’s arms business and becomes mired in a volatile political situation in the Middle East.
Blick’s follow-up, “Black Earth Rising,” aired in 2018, and...
The streaming giant is understood to have boarded “The English,” which has attached the “Quiet Place” actor as its lead. The multi-part series is produced by “Doctor Foster” firm Drama Republic, whose credits include BBC Two and SundanceTV spy thriller “The Honorable Woman,” as well as Netflix and BBC Two co-production “Black Earth Rising.”
The series is the latest from writer-director Hugo Blick, who broke out with “Honorable Woman” in 2014. The Golden Globe and Peabody-winning drama was one of the first high-end shows to feature actors traditionally seen in film crossing over into the TV space, and featured Maggie Gyllenhaal as a woman who inherits her family’s arms business and becomes mired in a volatile political situation in the Middle East.
Blick’s follow-up, “Black Earth Rising,” aired in 2018, and...
- 2/11/2020
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon Studios and Prime Video has a new leader in Mike Hopkins, who is exiting Sony Pictures Television to oversee Amazon’s video entertainment business.
Hopkins, who helped make Hulu a powerhouse in the streaming industry long before its purchase by Disney, will take over the duties of Jeff Blackburn, a longtime Amazon executive who was instrumental in building the company’s entertainment ventures. Blackburn went on sabbatical earlier this year and though he was expected to return in 2021, it is unclear how Hopkins’ hiring would impact Blackburn’s duties. Hopkins will begin working at Amazon on February 24.
“Mike comes to us with over 20 years of industry experience at Fox, Hulu and Sony,” Blackburn said in an internal memo obtained by Variety. “He has an extensive track record as a global business leader in media, film and TV — negotiating landmark content and distribution agreements, running marketing operations, leading product/tech teams,...
Hopkins, who helped make Hulu a powerhouse in the streaming industry long before its purchase by Disney, will take over the duties of Jeff Blackburn, a longtime Amazon executive who was instrumental in building the company’s entertainment ventures. Blackburn went on sabbatical earlier this year and though he was expected to return in 2021, it is unclear how Hopkins’ hiring would impact Blackburn’s duties. Hopkins will begin working at Amazon on February 24.
“Mike comes to us with over 20 years of industry experience at Fox, Hulu and Sony,” Blackburn said in an internal memo obtained by Variety. “He has an extensive track record as a global business leader in media, film and TV — negotiating landmark content and distribution agreements, running marketing operations, leading product/tech teams,...
- 2/10/2020
- by Tyler Hersko
- Indiewire
Amazon Studios head Jennifer Slake will report to Hopkins.
Former Hulu chief and current Sony Pictures Television (Spt) chairman Mike Hopkins is joining Amazon to oversee the tech giant’s video entertainment businesses, including Amazon Studios.
Amazon Studios head Jennifer Slake will now report to Hopkins, as will Greg Hart, vice-president worldwide of Amazon Prime video. Hopkins, who headed pioneering streaming service Hulu for four years before doing his two-and-a-half year stint at Spt, will report direct to Amazon chairman and CEO Jeff Bezos.
Hopkins is taking over the Amazon duties of senior vice-president of business development Jeff Blackburn, to...
Former Hulu chief and current Sony Pictures Television (Spt) chairman Mike Hopkins is joining Amazon to oversee the tech giant’s video entertainment businesses, including Amazon Studios.
Amazon Studios head Jennifer Slake will now report to Hopkins, as will Greg Hart, vice-president worldwide of Amazon Prime video. Hopkins, who headed pioneering streaming service Hulu for four years before doing his two-and-a-half year stint at Spt, will report direct to Amazon chairman and CEO Jeff Bezos.
Hopkins is taking over the Amazon duties of senior vice-president of business development Jeff Blackburn, to...
- 2/10/2020
- by 31¦John Hazelton¦0¦
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins will exit the studio and lead Amazon’s video entertainment business, including Amazon Studios.
Amazon Studios head Jen Salke will now report to Hopkins, who will report directly to Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. Hopkins had been with Sony since 2017, following four years as the CEO of Hulu. He will begin his new role later this month.
The move to Amazon puts Hopkins back in the streaming game after a little more than two years on the studio side.
Also Read: Sony Pictures Profit Drops to $51 Million in Third Quarter
Hopkins takes over for Jeff Blackburn, who is in the middle of a year-long sabbatical from the company this year, with plans to return in 2021. He could return in another capacity, an individual with knowledge tells TheWrap. Blackburn, a senior vice president and one of Bezos’s closest advisers, was in charge of Amazon’s entertainment,...
Amazon Studios head Jen Salke will now report to Hopkins, who will report directly to Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. Hopkins had been with Sony since 2017, following four years as the CEO of Hulu. He will begin his new role later this month.
The move to Amazon puts Hopkins back in the streaming game after a little more than two years on the studio side.
Also Read: Sony Pictures Profit Drops to $51 Million in Third Quarter
Hopkins takes over for Jeff Blackburn, who is in the middle of a year-long sabbatical from the company this year, with plans to return in 2021. He could return in another capacity, an individual with knowledge tells TheWrap. Blackburn, a senior vice president and one of Bezos’s closest advisers, was in charge of Amazon’s entertainment,...
- 2/10/2020
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Former Hulu CEO Mike Hopkins is returning to the streaming world with a high-level job at Amazon. Hopkins will be stepping down from his current post as Chairman of Sony Pictures Television later this month to join Amazon where he will be overseeing Amazon’s video entertainment businesses – including Prime Video and Amazon Studios — reporting directly to Amazon Chairman and CEO Jeff Bezos.
Tony Vinciquerra, Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, just made the announcement at the company’s quarterly senior leadership meeting.
Hopkins is not expected to be replaced — at least for the time being, — with Jeff Frost, President of U.S. Production, and Keith LeGoy, President of Worldwide Distribution, taking on additional responsibilities. They will now report directly to Vinciquerra, as will Sony TV’s International Production business, Silvergate, Gsn, the India networks business, and Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! Vinciquerra laid out the senior leadership realignment in an internal memo.
Tony Vinciquerra, Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, just made the announcement at the company’s quarterly senior leadership meeting.
Hopkins is not expected to be replaced — at least for the time being, — with Jeff Frost, President of U.S. Production, and Keith LeGoy, President of Worldwide Distribution, taking on additional responsibilities. They will now report directly to Vinciquerra, as will Sony TV’s International Production business, Silvergate, Gsn, the India networks business, and Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! Vinciquerra laid out the senior leadership realignment in an internal memo.
- 2/10/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Sony Pictures Television Chairman Mike Hopkins is departing his post at the industry’s largest independent TV studio later this month to oversee Amazon’s video entertainment operations, including Amazon Studios and Prime Video.
Current Amazon Studios head Jen Salke will report to Hopkins, who will report directly to Amazon chairman and CEO Jeff Bezos. Amazon’s senior vice president of business development and digital entertainment Jeff Blackburn, whom Salke currently reports to and who oversees the e-commerce giant’s streaming platform, is on sabbatical.
Salke, who joined Amazon in 2018, is expected to continue to engage with the creative community.
Hopkins boarded Sony’s TV studio in late 2017 after spending four years as CEO of Hulu. He is credited with fortifying and streamlining Sony Pictures TV’s operations, which in recent years has merged its media networks, television distribution and home entertainment businesses.
Sony Pictures Entertainment chairman Tony Vinciquerra announced...
Current Amazon Studios head Jen Salke will report to Hopkins, who will report directly to Amazon chairman and CEO Jeff Bezos. Amazon’s senior vice president of business development and digital entertainment Jeff Blackburn, whom Salke currently reports to and who oversees the e-commerce giant’s streaming platform, is on sabbatical.
Salke, who joined Amazon in 2018, is expected to continue to engage with the creative community.
Hopkins boarded Sony’s TV studio in late 2017 after spending four years as CEO of Hulu. He is credited with fortifying and streamlining Sony Pictures TV’s operations, which in recent years has merged its media networks, television distribution and home entertainment businesses.
Sony Pictures Entertainment chairman Tony Vinciquerra announced...
- 2/10/2020
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Mike Hopkins is returning to the digital space.
After a two-and-a-half-year tenure as chairman Sony Pictures Television, Hopkins is leaving the independent studio and taking a top job at Amazon, where he will oversee Prime Video and Amazon Studios. In his new post, he will report directly to Amazon chairman and CEO Jeff Bezos. Hopkins will begin his new role at Amazon on Feb. 24.
Hopkins' role at Sony TV will not be replaced but his duties will be absorbed by worldwide distribution president Keith LeGoy and Jeff Frost, president of U.S. production. The news was announced Monday during a ...
After a two-and-a-half-year tenure as chairman Sony Pictures Television, Hopkins is leaving the independent studio and taking a top job at Amazon, where he will oversee Prime Video and Amazon Studios. In his new post, he will report directly to Amazon chairman and CEO Jeff Bezos. Hopkins will begin his new role at Amazon on Feb. 24.
Hopkins' role at Sony TV will not be replaced but his duties will be absorbed by worldwide distribution president Keith LeGoy and Jeff Frost, president of U.S. production. The news was announced Monday during a ...
- 2/10/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Eight months after Disney took full control of Hulu, Disney is moving forward with integrating Hulu into its business operations under Direct-to-Consumer & International chairman Kevin Mayer. As part of the restructuring, Hulu CEO Randy Freer has stepped down. The top executives across Hulu operations, like distribution, sales, marketing, will now report directly into the corresponding Dtci business leads.
The realignment puts all Disney-owned and -operated streaming platforms — Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu — under the same centralized leadership. The three already have been bundled together in offerings to consumers since the November launch of Disney+.
There already has been integration of Hulu operations under Disney executives in the original programming area, which stopped reporting to Freer last summer when Dana Walden, chairman of Disney Television Studios and ABC Entertainment, took oversight of Hulu original scripted series. Additionally, FX chairman John Landgraf oversees the FX on Hulu portion of the streamer. Both Walden...
The realignment puts all Disney-owned and -operated streaming platforms — Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu — under the same centralized leadership. The three already have been bundled together in offerings to consumers since the November launch of Disney+.
There already has been integration of Hulu operations under Disney executives in the original programming area, which stopped reporting to Freer last summer when Dana Walden, chairman of Disney Television Studios and ABC Entertainment, took oversight of Hulu original scripted series. Additionally, FX chairman John Landgraf oversees the FX on Hulu portion of the streamer. Both Walden...
- 1/31/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Former Sony Pictures Television executives Andy Kaplan and George Chien have cut a deal with Sony to acquire three entertainment networks that serve Southeast Asia and South Korea.
Kaplan and Chien have launched Kc Global Media to operate the Sony channels, which include the Axn-branded channels in the region, the anime-focused Animax and South Korea’s Sony One entertainment channel. Kc Global Media is in the market to buy similar assets from other major media conglomerates. Kc Global Media’s deal with Sony does not include the successful Sony Pictures Networks India service.
Kaplan and Chien know Sony’s international TV assets well. Kaplan served as president of Sony Worldwide Networks from 2002 through early 2018, when Sony’s TV wing underwent a major overhaul of top management. Chien directly oversaw the growth of Axn and other channels in his role as exec VP of Sony Pictures Television Media Networks. Before that,...
Kaplan and Chien have launched Kc Global Media to operate the Sony channels, which include the Axn-branded channels in the region, the anime-focused Animax and South Korea’s Sony One entertainment channel. Kc Global Media is in the market to buy similar assets from other major media conglomerates. Kc Global Media’s deal with Sony does not include the successful Sony Pictures Networks India service.
Kaplan and Chien know Sony’s international TV assets well. Kaplan served as president of Sony Worldwide Networks from 2002 through early 2018, when Sony’s TV wing underwent a major overhaul of top management. Chien directly oversaw the growth of Axn and other channels in his role as exec VP of Sony Pictures Television Media Networks. Before that,...
- 1/8/2020
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Sony Pictures Television (Spt) has acquired Silvergate Media, a company that focuses on developing, producing and licensing children’s animation, for $195 million.
The independent media company was owned by its own management team as well as Los Angeles-based investment firm Shamrock Capital. Silvergate, which has ownership in “Octonauts” and TV’s “Peter Rabbit,” has offices in New York and London.
Under the terms of the deal, Spt gets 100% of Silvergate Topco Limited, which includes a 49% interest in a joint venture with Beijing-based Wanda Group. Wanda technically holds the rights to “Octonauts.” Additionally, Sony Pictures Entertainment gets a minority stake in Silvergate Bp Bidco Limited, which produces the “Peter Rabbit” television series.
Also Read: Steph Curry and John Legend to Develop Sports Drama 'Signing Day' at Sony
“We are excited to extend our capabilities and gain valuable children’s IP to bolster our entry into the kids’ space,” Mike Hopkins, chairman of Spt,...
The independent media company was owned by its own management team as well as Los Angeles-based investment firm Shamrock Capital. Silvergate, which has ownership in “Octonauts” and TV’s “Peter Rabbit,” has offices in New York and London.
Under the terms of the deal, Spt gets 100% of Silvergate Topco Limited, which includes a 49% interest in a joint venture with Beijing-based Wanda Group. Wanda technically holds the rights to “Octonauts.” Additionally, Sony Pictures Entertainment gets a minority stake in Silvergate Bp Bidco Limited, which produces the “Peter Rabbit” television series.
Also Read: Steph Curry and John Legend to Develop Sports Drama 'Signing Day' at Sony
“We are excited to extend our capabilities and gain valuable children’s IP to bolster our entry into the kids’ space,” Mike Hopkins, chairman of Spt,...
- 12/10/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Sony Pictures Television has acquired British kids producer Silvergate Media for just under $200M.
The Hollywood studio has bought the Octonauts and Peter Rabbit producer from the La-based investment firm Shamrock Capital and Silvergate’s management team for a total of $195M.
The company’s CEO Waheed Alli and Chairman William Astor will continue in their roles.
Sony has acquired 100% of Silvergate Topco Limited, whose assets include Silvergate’s 49% interest in a joint venture with Beijing-based Wanda Group, which holds the rights to Octonauts. Additionally, it has acquired a minority stake in Silvergate Bp Bidco Limited, which produces the Peter Rabbit television series and will continue to be majority-owned by Waheed Alli.
This comes after Sony Pictures Animation unveiled an expanded slate earlier this year.
Mike Hopkins, Chairman, Sony Pictures Television said, “We are excited to extend our capabilities and gain valuable children’s IP to bolster our entry into the kids’ space.
The Hollywood studio has bought the Octonauts and Peter Rabbit producer from the La-based investment firm Shamrock Capital and Silvergate’s management team for a total of $195M.
The company’s CEO Waheed Alli and Chairman William Astor will continue in their roles.
Sony has acquired 100% of Silvergate Topco Limited, whose assets include Silvergate’s 49% interest in a joint venture with Beijing-based Wanda Group, which holds the rights to Octonauts. Additionally, it has acquired a minority stake in Silvergate Bp Bidco Limited, which produces the Peter Rabbit television series and will continue to be majority-owned by Waheed Alli.
This comes after Sony Pictures Animation unveiled an expanded slate earlier this year.
Mike Hopkins, Chairman, Sony Pictures Television said, “We are excited to extend our capabilities and gain valuable children’s IP to bolster our entry into the kids’ space.
- 12/10/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Sony Pictures Television is diving into children’s TV in a big way by buying Silvergate Media – the producer behind global hits “Octonauts,” Netflix’s “Hilda” and the “Peter Rabbit” animated series – for $195 million, Variety has learned. The acquisition marks Spt’s first move into producing kids’ TV and follows its stablemate Sony Pictures Animation’s diversification into TV series.
Spt is buying Silvergate from the current management team and Shamrock Capital. L.A.-based investment business Shamrock acquired 51% of Silvergate in 2016. Among Silvergate’s assets is a 49% stake in a joint venture formed last year with China’s Wanda Group. That entity holds the rights to “Octonauts,” the preschool animated series about a band of intrepid underwater explorers. The show started out in the U.K. and has become a global success.
Sony has also acquired a minority stake in Silvergate Bp Bidco, which owns the “Peter Rabbit” animated TV series.
Spt is buying Silvergate from the current management team and Shamrock Capital. L.A.-based investment business Shamrock acquired 51% of Silvergate in 2016. Among Silvergate’s assets is a 49% stake in a joint venture formed last year with China’s Wanda Group. That entity holds the rights to “Octonauts,” the preschool animated series about a band of intrepid underwater explorers. The show started out in the U.K. and has become a global success.
Sony has also acquired a minority stake in Silvergate Bp Bidco, which owns the “Peter Rabbit” animated TV series.
- 12/10/2019
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
Sony Pictures Entertainment has bought out AT&T’s minority interest in Game Show Network for about $500 million.
The deal makes Sony the sole owner of Gsn. AT&T had owned 42% of the company, which the telco giant inherited with its purchase of DirecTV in 2015. AT&T has been on a mission this year to pay down the $180 billion debt load left by its acquisitions of DirecTV and Time Warner. AT&T’s debt stands at about $154 billion, according to its third-quarter earnings report last month.
“We’re excited to bring Game Show Network fully into the Sony Pictures Entertainment portfolio,” said Mike Hopkins, chairman of Sony Pictures Television. “The acquisition allows us to work more closely with the company’s talented team to deliver the best iconic game shows, develop and syndicate new game show IP for audiences across the nation, as well as
to advance the fast-growing Gsn Games business,...
The deal makes Sony the sole owner of Gsn. AT&T had owned 42% of the company, which the telco giant inherited with its purchase of DirecTV in 2015. AT&T has been on a mission this year to pay down the $180 billion debt load left by its acquisitions of DirecTV and Time Warner. AT&T’s debt stands at about $154 billion, according to its third-quarter earnings report last month.
“We’re excited to bring Game Show Network fully into the Sony Pictures Entertainment portfolio,” said Mike Hopkins, chairman of Sony Pictures Television. “The acquisition allows us to work more closely with the company’s talented team to deliver the best iconic game shows, develop and syndicate new game show IP for audiences across the nation, as well as
to advance the fast-growing Gsn Games business,...
- 11/18/2019
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Sony has acquired AT&T’s 42% stake in Game Show Network in a transaction with a total value of $500 million.
After the deal, Sony will own 100% of the multimedia entertainment company, whose offerings are anchored by its namesake cable network, which airs original and classic game programming. Game Show Network channel will continue to be carried on AT&T’s DirecTV.
Mark Feldman will continue as president and CEO of Gsn.
Sony is positioning Gsn’s suite of game programming alongside its television unit’s established game properties such as Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune.
For AT&T, the deal furthers the company’s objective to pay down debt and generate cash from non-strategic assets. The telecom and media giant, still digesting its $81 billion acquisition of Time Warner, has sold off a range of assets from real estate to equipment while also completing a massive restructuring of Time Warner, now known as WarnerMedia.
After the deal, Sony will own 100% of the multimedia entertainment company, whose offerings are anchored by its namesake cable network, which airs original and classic game programming. Game Show Network channel will continue to be carried on AT&T’s DirecTV.
Mark Feldman will continue as president and CEO of Gsn.
Sony is positioning Gsn’s suite of game programming alongside its television unit’s established game properties such as Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune.
For AT&T, the deal furthers the company’s objective to pay down debt and generate cash from non-strategic assets. The telecom and media giant, still digesting its $81 billion acquisition of Time Warner, has sold off a range of assets from real estate to equipment while also completing a massive restructuring of Time Warner, now known as WarnerMedia.
- 11/18/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Sony Pictures Entertainment has bought out AT&T’s minority stake in the Game Show Network (Gsn), giving the studio 100% ownership of the cable network.
AT&T owned 42% of the channel, with Sony making up the rest. In connection with the transaction, AT&T received approximately $500 million, including proceeds for its equity stake valued at $380 million (before transaction-related adjustments) and dividends of approximately $130 million.
Gsn will continue to be managed by Sony Pictures Television, with Mark Feldman continuing as President and CEO.
Also Read: 'Fast & Furious' Veteran Chris Morgan Signs Overall Deal With Sony Pictures TV
“We’re excited to bring Game Show Network fully into the Sony Pictures Entertainment portfolio,” said Mike Hopkins, Chairman, Sony Pictures Television. “The acquisition allows us to work more closely with the company’s talented team to deliver the best iconic game shows, develop and syndicate new game show IP for audiences across the nation,...
AT&T owned 42% of the channel, with Sony making up the rest. In connection with the transaction, AT&T received approximately $500 million, including proceeds for its equity stake valued at $380 million (before transaction-related adjustments) and dividends of approximately $130 million.
Gsn will continue to be managed by Sony Pictures Television, with Mark Feldman continuing as President and CEO.
Also Read: 'Fast & Furious' Veteran Chris Morgan Signs Overall Deal With Sony Pictures TV
“We’re excited to bring Game Show Network fully into the Sony Pictures Entertainment portfolio,” said Mike Hopkins, Chairman, Sony Pictures Television. “The acquisition allows us to work more closely with the company’s talented team to deliver the best iconic game shows, develop and syndicate new game show IP for audiences across the nation,...
- 11/18/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
James Holzhauer is finally going to face his nemesis Ken Jennings.
After winning the “Jeopardy! Tournament of Champions” last week, Holzhauer is returning to the game show to compete against the game show’s two other biggest legends: Jennings, who continues to hold the all-time highest-earnings record over Holzhauer, and Brad Rutter.
Airing on ABC in a multi-night event starting Jan. 7, this will be the first time “Jeopardy!” has aired on network television, instead of in syndication, in 30 years.
Also Read: 'Jeopardy!': James Holzhauer Wins Tournament of Champions
Holzhauer, Jennings and Rutter will compete in a series of matches. The first to win three matches gets $1 million and the title of “Jeopardy! The Greatest of All Time.” The two runners up will each receive $250,000.
The matches will air from 8 to 9 p.m. Et on Jan. 7, 8 and 9, and if necessary, on through Jan. 10, 14, 15 and 16 until a three-game winner emerges.
After winning the “Jeopardy! Tournament of Champions” last week, Holzhauer is returning to the game show to compete against the game show’s two other biggest legends: Jennings, who continues to hold the all-time highest-earnings record over Holzhauer, and Brad Rutter.
Airing on ABC in a multi-night event starting Jan. 7, this will be the first time “Jeopardy!” has aired on network television, instead of in syndication, in 30 years.
Also Read: 'Jeopardy!': James Holzhauer Wins Tournament of Champions
Holzhauer, Jennings and Rutter will compete in a series of matches. The first to win three matches gets $1 million and the title of “Jeopardy! The Greatest of All Time.” The two runners up will each receive $250,000.
The matches will air from 8 to 9 p.m. Et on Jan. 7, 8 and 9, and if necessary, on through Jan. 10, 14, 15 and 16 until a three-game winner emerges.
- 11/18/2019
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
Alex Trebek appeared to tear up on Monday’s episode of “Jeopardy!” after a contestant used his response to a prompt to convey the message “We love you, Alex.”
As his answer to one of Monday’s questions, Tournament of Champions semifinalist Dhruv Gaur penned the message with a heart in place of the word “love,” betting $1995 of his $2000 on the answer.
“Oh, that’s very kind of you,” Trebek, 79, said after seeing the message. “Thank you.”
Continuing with the tournament, he added, “[That] cost you $1,995, you’re left with $5.”
Trebek, who has hosted “Jeopardy!” for 35 years, revealed in March that he has been diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer — one of the fastest moving and deadliest types of cancer. Trebek has decided to continue hosting the show, however, returning in August after starting chemotherapy.
A five-year survival rate is only viable in 9% of patients who receive a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis.
As his answer to one of Monday’s questions, Tournament of Champions semifinalist Dhruv Gaur penned the message with a heart in place of the word “love,” betting $1995 of his $2000 on the answer.
“Oh, that’s very kind of you,” Trebek, 79, said after seeing the message. “Thank you.”
Continuing with the tournament, he added, “[That] cost you $1,995, you’re left with $5.”
Trebek, who has hosted “Jeopardy!” for 35 years, revealed in March that he has been diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer — one of the fastest moving and deadliest types of cancer. Trebek has decided to continue hosting the show, however, returning in August after starting chemotherapy.
A five-year survival rate is only viable in 9% of patients who receive a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis.
- 11/12/2019
- by Erin Nyren
- Variety Film + TV
One day, a Midwestern kid set his sights on Hollywood and headed West. He gave himself six months to make it or return to Nebraska. The day before his self-imposed deadline, he landed a job writing for television.
It sounds too corny for an inspirational movie, yet this is Harry Friedman’s life.
Now, after decades of running “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune,” Friedman is receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Nov. 1, just months ahead of his planned May 2020 retirement. He’ll be 73, and although it’s been “a hell of a lot of fun,” it was time, he says, to step down from his executive producer role on the syndicated hits.
“When we went on the air in ’83, there were three networks, and that was it. No Fox, no streaming, no cell phones, no nothing,” says “Wheel of Fortune” host Pat Sajak. “It is as...
It sounds too corny for an inspirational movie, yet this is Harry Friedman’s life.
Now, after decades of running “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune,” Friedman is receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Nov. 1, just months ahead of his planned May 2020 retirement. He’ll be 73, and although it’s been “a hell of a lot of fun,” it was time, he says, to step down from his executive producer role on the syndicated hits.
“When we went on the air in ’83, there were three networks, and that was it. No Fox, no streaming, no cell phones, no nothing,” says “Wheel of Fortune” host Pat Sajak. “It is as...
- 11/1/2019
- by Jacqueline Cutler
- Variety Film + TV
Josh Greenstein and Sanford Panitch have each been named to the new shared position of President Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, Sony Motion Pictures Group Chairman Tom Rothman announced Thursday.
The duo will assume a senior role that has been vacant since Doug Belgrad left the studio in 2016. Greenstein and Panitch’s responsibilities and reporting lines remain unchanged. Greenstein’s previous title was Sony Pictures President of Worldwide Marketing & Distribution and Panitch previously served as president of Columbia Pictures.
In addition, Rothman noted the recent promotions of Kristine Belson to president of Sony Pictures Animation, Features and Series and Spring Aspers to president of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, Music.
Also Read: Marvel, Sony Pictures Reach Deal for Another 'Spider-Man' Film
Read the memo below…
From: Office of Tom Rothman
Sent: Thursday, October 3, 2019
To: Office of Tom Rothman
Subject: Mpg Promotions
Good morning,
I am pleased to share with all...
The duo will assume a senior role that has been vacant since Doug Belgrad left the studio in 2016. Greenstein and Panitch’s responsibilities and reporting lines remain unchanged. Greenstein’s previous title was Sony Pictures President of Worldwide Marketing & Distribution and Panitch previously served as president of Columbia Pictures.
In addition, Rothman noted the recent promotions of Kristine Belson to president of Sony Pictures Animation, Features and Series and Spring Aspers to president of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, Music.
Also Read: Marvel, Sony Pictures Reach Deal for Another 'Spider-Man' Film
Read the memo below…
From: Office of Tom Rothman
Sent: Thursday, October 3, 2019
To: Office of Tom Rothman
Subject: Mpg Promotions
Good morning,
I am pleased to share with all...
- 10/3/2019
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
Exclusive: This morning Sony Motion Pictures Group Chairman Tom Rothman informed studio staff about a round of recent promotions, with Josh Greenstein and Sanford Panitch each being named to the new shared position of President Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, a title which has been vacant since Doug Belgrad’s departure.
It’s all for a job well done by the duo with Panitch in production and Greenstein leading global marketing and distribution as Sony recently saw their highest grossing movie of all-time with Spider-Man: Far From Home‘s $1.13 billion global gross, and Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood being the highest grossing original film at the B.O. year to date with $357.6M (the filmmaker’s second-highest grossing movie after Django Unchained). Not to mention, Sony is primed to clear $1 billion at the domestic box office soon and potentially best their 2018 $1.3B take following the releases...
It’s all for a job well done by the duo with Panitch in production and Greenstein leading global marketing and distribution as Sony recently saw their highest grossing movie of all-time with Spider-Man: Far From Home‘s $1.13 billion global gross, and Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood being the highest grossing original film at the B.O. year to date with $357.6M (the filmmaker’s second-highest grossing movie after Django Unchained). Not to mention, Sony is primed to clear $1 billion at the domestic box office soon and potentially best their 2018 $1.3B take following the releases...
- 10/3/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Executive shepherded Oscar-winner Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse.
Sony Pictures Animation president Kristine Belson, under whose watch the latest entry in the Hotel Transylvania franchise attained record international and global box office results, has renewed her contract and expanded her role to include producing animated series for television and streaming platforms.
In her new role as president, Sony Pictures Animation, features and series, Belson will continue to report to Sony Pictures Entertainment motion picture group chairman Tom Rothman.
For television projects, she will liaise with Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins and work with Sony Pictures Television Studios co-presidents Chris Parnell...
Sony Pictures Animation president Kristine Belson, under whose watch the latest entry in the Hotel Transylvania franchise attained record international and global box office results, has renewed her contract and expanded her role to include producing animated series for television and streaming platforms.
In her new role as president, Sony Pictures Animation, features and series, Belson will continue to report to Sony Pictures Entertainment motion picture group chairman Tom Rothman.
For television projects, she will liaise with Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins and work with Sony Pictures Television Studios co-presidents Chris Parnell...
- 10/2/2019
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Sony Pictures Animation President Kristine Belson has renewed her contract to continue running the Oscar-winning film division, the studio announced on Wednesday.
In addition to re-upping her deal, Belson will also expand her responsibilities to include producing animated series for TV and streaming. Belson’s new title is president of Sony Pictures Animation, Features and Series. She will continue to report to Sony’s motion picture group chairman Tom Rothman.
On the television side, Belson will liaise with Sony Pictures TV Chairman Mike Hopkins and work with Chris Parnell and Jason Clodfelter, co-presidents of Sony Pictures TV Studios, on some projects.
Also Read: Marvel, Sony Pictures Reach Deal for Another 'Spider-Man' Film
“For the last few years, Sony Pictures Animation has thrived under Kristine’s expert leadership,” Rothman said. “Under her watch, we’ve seen ‘Hotel Transylvania’ grow to a $1.3 billion franchise and the team win their first-ever Oscar for ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
In addition to re-upping her deal, Belson will also expand her responsibilities to include producing animated series for TV and streaming. Belson’s new title is president of Sony Pictures Animation, Features and Series. She will continue to report to Sony’s motion picture group chairman Tom Rothman.
On the television side, Belson will liaise with Sony Pictures TV Chairman Mike Hopkins and work with Chris Parnell and Jason Clodfelter, co-presidents of Sony Pictures TV Studios, on some projects.
Also Read: Marvel, Sony Pictures Reach Deal for Another 'Spider-Man' Film
“For the last few years, Sony Pictures Animation has thrived under Kristine’s expert leadership,” Rothman said. “Under her watch, we’ve seen ‘Hotel Transylvania’ grow to a $1.3 billion franchise and the team win their first-ever Oscar for ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
- 10/2/2019
- by Trey Williams
- The Wrap
Sony Animation President Kristine Belson Renews Deal, Expands Duties to Streaming and TV (Exclusive)
Newly-minted Oscar winner Kristine Belson has signed a new deal to remain president of Sony Pictures Animation, and will expand her purview to television.
Belson, who reports to Sony motion picture group chairman Tom Rothman, has been on the Culver City lot since 2015, and is largely credited with reviving the division thanks to hits like the “Hotel Transylvania” franchise and the recent, genre-bending “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.”
In her expanded role, Belson will tackle series projects for TV and streaming partners. She will liaise with Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins and work with Chris Parnell and Jason Clodfelter, co-presidents of Sony Pictures Television Studios. Her new title will read as president, Sony Pictures Animation, features and series.
“For the last few years, Sony Pictures Animation has thrived under Kristine’s expert leadership,” Rothman tells Variety. “Under her watch, we’ve seen ‘Hotel Transylvania” grow to a $1.3 billion franchise and...
Belson, who reports to Sony motion picture group chairman Tom Rothman, has been on the Culver City lot since 2015, and is largely credited with reviving the division thanks to hits like the “Hotel Transylvania” franchise and the recent, genre-bending “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.”
In her expanded role, Belson will tackle series projects for TV and streaming partners. She will liaise with Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins and work with Chris Parnell and Jason Clodfelter, co-presidents of Sony Pictures Television Studios. Her new title will read as president, Sony Pictures Animation, features and series.
“For the last few years, Sony Pictures Animation has thrived under Kristine’s expert leadership,” Rothman tells Variety. “Under her watch, we’ve seen ‘Hotel Transylvania” grow to a $1.3 billion franchise and...
- 10/2/2019
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Television’s biggest night took place in Century City, CA Saturday, September 21st, where the entertainment industry came together for the 13th annual “Evening Before” party, benefitting Mptf (Motion Picture & Television Fund).
Stars Attend 13th Annual Evening Before Benefitting Mptf
Credit/Copyright: Getty Images for Mptf
The television industry, from Emmy presenters and nominees, to other TV industry members, helped raise funds to support their industry colleagues and friends who benefit from Mptf’s charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, care giving support and of course the legendary retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is “home” to television and film veterans alike.
“Mptf’s Evening Before once again brought our industry together in the spirit of a community that truly takes care of its own. We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of the corporate sponsors and donors from the television community who came out to support and sustain our mission,...
Stars Attend 13th Annual Evening Before Benefitting Mptf
Credit/Copyright: Getty Images for Mptf
The television industry, from Emmy presenters and nominees, to other TV industry members, helped raise funds to support their industry colleagues and friends who benefit from Mptf’s charitable programs and services such as financial assistance, crisis counseling, care giving support and of course the legendary retirement facility in Woodland Hills that is “home” to television and film veterans alike.
“Mptf’s Evening Before once again brought our industry together in the spirit of a community that truly takes care of its own. We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of the corporate sponsors and donors from the television community who came out to support and sustain our mission,...
- 9/23/2019
- Look to the Stars
If you're already suffering from withdrawals after learning that Netflix is losing both Friends and The Office in 2020, we have good news! The streaming giant has acquired all 180 episodes of Seinfeld and will begin streaming once the show's current Hulu distribution deal ends in 2021.
As first reported by Los Angeles Times, Netflix and Sony Pictures Television have struck a five-year deal that gives the streaming site global streaming rights and a major comeback after losing two of its most popular licensed series. We may be saying goodbye to Central Perk, but at least we'll be returning to Monk's Café!
"Seinfeld is a one-of-a-kind, iconic, culture-defining show," Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins said. "Now, 30 years after its premiere, Seinfeld remains center stage. We're thrilled to be partnering with Netflix to bring this beloved series to current fans and new audiences around the globe."...
As first reported by Los Angeles Times, Netflix and Sony Pictures Television have struck a five-year deal that gives the streaming site global streaming rights and a major comeback after losing two of its most popular licensed series. We may be saying goodbye to Central Perk, but at least we'll be returning to Monk's Café!
"Seinfeld is a one-of-a-kind, iconic, culture-defining show," Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins said. "Now, 30 years after its premiere, Seinfeld remains center stage. We're thrilled to be partnering with Netflix to bring this beloved series to current fans and new audiences around the globe."...
- 9/21/2019
- by Mekishana Pierre
- Popsugar.com
After losing the ultra hit shows The Office and Friends, Netflix has found a win with securing the streaming rights to the classic NBC sitcom Seinfeld.
The series is currently streaming on Hulu and it will be released on Netflix in 2021 and that’s where it will stay for at least five years. All 180 episodes of the show will be remastered in 4K for the first time ever for Netflix.
Netflix and Jerry Seinfeld have a strong working relationship with each other, so it makes sense that the series would eventually come to the streaming service with the rest of Seinfeld’s projects.
Sony Pictures Television Chairman Mike Hopkins told the Los Angeles Times, “Seinfeld is a one-of-a-kind, iconic, culture-defining show,” then added, “Now, 30 years after its premiere, Seinfeld remains center stage. We’re thrilled to be partnering with Netflix to bring this beloved series to current fans and new audiences around the globe.
The series is currently streaming on Hulu and it will be released on Netflix in 2021 and that’s where it will stay for at least five years. All 180 episodes of the show will be remastered in 4K for the first time ever for Netflix.
Netflix and Jerry Seinfeld have a strong working relationship with each other, so it makes sense that the series would eventually come to the streaming service with the rest of Seinfeld’s projects.
Sony Pictures Television Chairman Mike Hopkins told the Los Angeles Times, “Seinfeld is a one-of-a-kind, iconic, culture-defining show,” then added, “Now, 30 years after its premiere, Seinfeld remains center stage. We’re thrilled to be partnering with Netflix to bring this beloved series to current fans and new audiences around the globe.
- 9/16/2019
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Joseph Baxter Sep 16, 2019
Netflix has acquired the rights to legendary sitcom Seinfeld, which will join the streaming giant’s library in 2021.
Seinfeld is Netflix-bound! – Yada yada, it premieres on the platform in 2021.
Netflix finalized a five-year deal with Sony Pictures Television to acquire the streaming rights to Seinfeld, as reported by The L.A. Times, also confirmed by Variety. Said deal will see the groundbreaking sitcom – which originally ran on NBC from 1989 to 1998, leaving behind a legacy of 180 episodes – depart its current home of Hulu for Netflix pastures worldwide in 2021. While the numbers for Netflix's deal are not yet known, Hulu's 2015 acquisition cost $160 million a year, or, around $875,000 per episode.
As Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins expresses in a statement to The L.A. Times:
“Seinfeld is a one-of-a-kind, iconic, culture-defining show. Now, 30 years after its premiere, Seinfeld remains center stage. We’re thrilled to be partnering with Netflix...
Netflix has acquired the rights to legendary sitcom Seinfeld, which will join the streaming giant’s library in 2021.
Seinfeld is Netflix-bound! – Yada yada, it premieres on the platform in 2021.
Netflix finalized a five-year deal with Sony Pictures Television to acquire the streaming rights to Seinfeld, as reported by The L.A. Times, also confirmed by Variety. Said deal will see the groundbreaking sitcom – which originally ran on NBC from 1989 to 1998, leaving behind a legacy of 180 episodes – depart its current home of Hulu for Netflix pastures worldwide in 2021. While the numbers for Netflix's deal are not yet known, Hulu's 2015 acquisition cost $160 million a year, or, around $875,000 per episode.
As Sony Pictures Television chairman Mike Hopkins expresses in a statement to The L.A. Times:
“Seinfeld is a one-of-a-kind, iconic, culture-defining show. Now, 30 years after its premiere, Seinfeld remains center stage. We’re thrilled to be partnering with Netflix...
- 9/16/2019
- Den of Geek
“What’s the deal with streaming rights, amirite? First, you’re over here, next, you’re over there, all while I’m thinking ‘I just wanna watch my MTV!'” That’s not a, uh, direct Seinfeld quote, as I wrote it on spec, but not a bad impression, eh? I’ve honed it from watching a good chunk of the comedian’s titular sitcom over the years. My grandma even used to watch it live, when it was brand new. Now, perhaps a new generation will do the same when the series leaves its longtime home on Hulu in 2021 to head over to Netflix.
Netflix, the former biggest and baddest (in the tough sense) of the streaming giants, has been taking a few punches lately, specifically in the one-two losses of both The Office and Friends, much to the chagrin of your white girlfriend. Picking up Jerry and co.
Netflix, the former biggest and baddest (in the tough sense) of the streaming giants, has been taking a few punches lately, specifically in the one-two losses of both The Office and Friends, much to the chagrin of your white girlfriend. Picking up Jerry and co.
- 9/16/2019
- by Josh Heath
- We Got This Covered
‘It is as fresh and funny as ever and will be available to the world in 4K for the first time.’
As competition for TV library content heats up among new and existing streamers, Netflix has signed a five-year deal for exclusive streaming rights throughout most of the world to sitcom classic Seinfeld.
The deal, signed with Seinfeld distributor Sony Pictures Television and set to come into effect in 2021, comes after Netflix has recently lost rights to Friends to WarnerMedia and the Us version of The Office to NBCUniversal for their upcoming streaming services.
Seinfeld, which currently streams on Hulu...
As competition for TV library content heats up among new and existing streamers, Netflix has signed a five-year deal for exclusive streaming rights throughout most of the world to sitcom classic Seinfeld.
The deal, signed with Seinfeld distributor Sony Pictures Television and set to come into effect in 2021, comes after Netflix has recently lost rights to Friends to WarnerMedia and the Us version of The Office to NBCUniversal for their upcoming streaming services.
Seinfeld, which currently streams on Hulu...
- 9/16/2019
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Netflix will become the master of Seinfeld‘s domain effective 2021, as the result of a new five-year deal that will pull all 180 episodes of the iconic sitcom from its current streaming home, Hulu.
In reportedly outbidding Hulu, Amazon, WarnerMedia, NBCUniversal and Viacom for not just U.S. but global rights to the series, Netflix is believed to have paid well north of both the $500 million that NBCUniversal shelled out to land The Office on its own upcoming streaming platform and the $425 million that HBO Max ponied up for Friends. (Hulu reportedly pays $150 million/year to host Seinfeld Stateside-only.)
More from...
In reportedly outbidding Hulu, Amazon, WarnerMedia, NBCUniversal and Viacom for not just U.S. but global rights to the series, Netflix is believed to have paid well north of both the $500 million that NBCUniversal shelled out to land The Office on its own upcoming streaming platform and the $425 million that HBO Max ponied up for Friends. (Hulu reportedly pays $150 million/year to host Seinfeld Stateside-only.)
More from...
- 9/16/2019
- TVLine.com
Netflix yada yada yada “Seinfeld.”
Variety has confirmed that the streaming giant has landed the global streaming rights to all 180 episodes the genre-defining sitcom. The deal was struck with Sony Pictures Television, which controls the distribution rights to the NBC series. It is a five-year deal which is set to begin in 2021.
“’Seinfeld’ is a one-of-a-kind, iconic, culture-defining show,” said Mike Hopkins, chairman of Sony Pictures Television. “Now, 30 years after its premiere, ‘Seinfeld’ remains center stage. We’re thrilled to be partnering with Netflix to bring this beloved series to current fans and new audiences around the globe.”
Hulu currently controls the domestic streaming rights to “Seinfeld,” with that deal set to expire in 2021. Amazon distributes the series internationally. When the Hulu deal was first reported in 2015, it was estimated the streamer was paying roughly $875,000 per episode for the series, or $160 million annually.
“Seinfeld” represents a major get for Netflix,...
Variety has confirmed that the streaming giant has landed the global streaming rights to all 180 episodes the genre-defining sitcom. The deal was struck with Sony Pictures Television, which controls the distribution rights to the NBC series. It is a five-year deal which is set to begin in 2021.
“’Seinfeld’ is a one-of-a-kind, iconic, culture-defining show,” said Mike Hopkins, chairman of Sony Pictures Television. “Now, 30 years after its premiere, ‘Seinfeld’ remains center stage. We’re thrilled to be partnering with Netflix to bring this beloved series to current fans and new audiences around the globe.”
Hulu currently controls the domestic streaming rights to “Seinfeld,” with that deal set to expire in 2021. Amazon distributes the series internationally. When the Hulu deal was first reported in 2015, it was estimated the streamer was paying roughly $875,000 per episode for the series, or $160 million annually.
“Seinfeld” represents a major get for Netflix,...
- 9/16/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix is set to lose “Friends” and “The Office” in the next couple of years. Yada, yada yada… the streaming giant is bringing in another former NBC sitcom to its service with “Seinfeld.”
Netflix announced on Monday that it landed the global rights to the comedy, which ran from 1989 to 1998, beginning in 2021. “Seinfeld” had been available on Hulu since 2015. Terms of the deal with Sony Pictures Television, which handles distribution of the show, were not disclosed.
“‘Seinfeld’ is the television comedy that all television comedy is measured against,” Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s chief content officer, said. “It is as fresh and funny as ever and will be available to the world in 4K for the first time. We can’t wait to welcome Jerry, Elaine, George and Kramer to their new global home on Netflix.”
Also Read: 'Living With Yourself' Trailer: Paul Rudd Fights to Keep His Life...
Netflix announced on Monday that it landed the global rights to the comedy, which ran from 1989 to 1998, beginning in 2021. “Seinfeld” had been available on Hulu since 2015. Terms of the deal with Sony Pictures Television, which handles distribution of the show, were not disclosed.
“‘Seinfeld’ is the television comedy that all television comedy is measured against,” Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s chief content officer, said. “It is as fresh and funny as ever and will be available to the world in 4K for the first time. We can’t wait to welcome Jerry, Elaine, George and Kramer to their new global home on Netflix.”
Also Read: 'Living With Yourself' Trailer: Paul Rudd Fights to Keep His Life...
- 9/16/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Mike Richards is set to take over as executive producer of “Jeopardy!” and “Wheel of Fortune” when Harry Friedman exits next year.
Friedman announced his plans to retire from the game show world at the beginning of this month after 25 years with Sony Pictures Television.
Richards, who served as executive producer of “The Price is Right” for over ten years and also worked on “Let’s Make a Deal,” announced plans to leave both shows in June after signing an overall deal with Spt.
Also Read: How the Dead 'Spider-Man' Deal Fueled Sony's Rebound
“Wheel of Fortune” is currently in production on its 37th season, while and “Jeopardy!” is taping its 36th. Both will premiere on Sept. 9.
“‘Wheel of Fortune’ and ‘Jeopardy!’ are the gold standard of television — exceptional, timeless formats produced by amazing teams. Alex Trebek, Vanna White and Pat Sajak are incredible hosts and I...
Friedman announced his plans to retire from the game show world at the beginning of this month after 25 years with Sony Pictures Television.
Richards, who served as executive producer of “The Price is Right” for over ten years and also worked on “Let’s Make a Deal,” announced plans to leave both shows in June after signing an overall deal with Spt.
Also Read: How the Dead 'Spider-Man' Deal Fueled Sony's Rebound
“Wheel of Fortune” is currently in production on its 37th season, while and “Jeopardy!” is taping its 36th. Both will premiere on Sept. 9.
“‘Wheel of Fortune’ and ‘Jeopardy!’ are the gold standard of television — exceptional, timeless formats produced by amazing teams. Alex Trebek, Vanna White and Pat Sajak are incredible hosts and I...
- 8/29/2019
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
Mike Richards, the veteran executive producer of The Price is Right and Let’s Make A Deal, will take the helm as executive producer of Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! when the shows’ long-time Ep/showrunner Harry Friedman departs next year.
Friedman announced on August 1 that he would be stepping down when his contract ends at the conclusion of the shows’ current seasons, capping a remarkable 25-year career at Sony Pictures TV, the shows’ producer.
Wheel of Fortune is currently in production on the show’s 37th season and Jeopardy! is taping its 36th season; both premiere on Monday, September 9. Last season, Wheel of Fortune reached 25.8M viewers on average each week and Jeopardy! reached 25.0 million.
“Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! are the gold standard of television – exceptional, timeless formats produced by amazing teams,” said Richards.” Alex Trebek, Vanna White and Pat Sajak are incredible hosts and I can’t...
Friedman announced on August 1 that he would be stepping down when his contract ends at the conclusion of the shows’ current seasons, capping a remarkable 25-year career at Sony Pictures TV, the shows’ producer.
Wheel of Fortune is currently in production on the show’s 37th season and Jeopardy! is taping its 36th season; both premiere on Monday, September 9. Last season, Wheel of Fortune reached 25.8M viewers on average each week and Jeopardy! reached 25.0 million.
“Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! are the gold standard of television – exceptional, timeless formats produced by amazing teams,” said Richards.” Alex Trebek, Vanna White and Pat Sajak are incredible hosts and I can’t...
- 8/29/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Mike Richards is taking over as executive producer on both “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy!” Richards will take the reins of both shows following the exit of longtime executive producer Harry Friedman, who announced in the beginning of August that he would be stepping down in 2020 when his contract expires.
“’Wheel of Fortune’ and ‘Jeopardy!’ are the gold standard of television – exceptional, timeless formats produced by amazing teams,” Richards said. “Alex Trebek, Vanna White and Pat Sajak are incredible hosts and I can’t wait to work side by side with them on these world class franchises. Harry Friedman’s 25-year run can only be described as legendary. I have long been inspired by his hard work and brilliant decision making, and I’m honored to get to work with Harry over the next few months. Thank you to Mike Hopkins and the entire Sony team for this dream opportunity.
“’Wheel of Fortune’ and ‘Jeopardy!’ are the gold standard of television – exceptional, timeless formats produced by amazing teams,” Richards said. “Alex Trebek, Vanna White and Pat Sajak are incredible hosts and I can’t wait to work side by side with them on these world class franchises. Harry Friedman’s 25-year run can only be described as legendary. I have long been inspired by his hard work and brilliant decision making, and I’m honored to get to work with Harry over the next few months. Thank you to Mike Hopkins and the entire Sony team for this dream opportunity.
- 8/29/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Fox Entertainment has named former Sony exec Amy Carney as Chief Operating Officer.
Carney spent 15 years at Sony, most recently as president, advertiser sales & research, and stepped down in April 2018. Based in La and reporting to Fox Entertainment CEO Charlie Collier, she will be responsible for overseeing research, strategy and operations for the media company.
Carney joined Sony Pictures Television in 2003 to lead its advertiser sales team, adding strategy and global research to her responsibilities in 2012. At Sony, Carney was one of four president-level executives who reported to Sony Pictures Entertainment Chairman and CEO Tony Vinciquerra before the appointment of chairman Mike Hopkins.
Prior to joining Sony, she was Vice President, Sales, for Univision Online and held roles at Ticketmaster and CBS affiliate Wtvr-tv. She has also served as a board advisor at ad company Brightline Media, programmatic firm ITN Networks and No More Kids with Cancer, which is dedicated...
Carney spent 15 years at Sony, most recently as president, advertiser sales & research, and stepped down in April 2018. Based in La and reporting to Fox Entertainment CEO Charlie Collier, she will be responsible for overseeing research, strategy and operations for the media company.
Carney joined Sony Pictures Television in 2003 to lead its advertiser sales team, adding strategy and global research to her responsibilities in 2012. At Sony, Carney was one of four president-level executives who reported to Sony Pictures Entertainment Chairman and CEO Tony Vinciquerra before the appointment of chairman Mike Hopkins.
Prior to joining Sony, she was Vice President, Sales, for Univision Online and held roles at Ticketmaster and CBS affiliate Wtvr-tv. She has also served as a board advisor at ad company Brightline Media, programmatic firm ITN Networks and No More Kids with Cancer, which is dedicated...
- 8/7/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Harry Friedman, the longtime executive producer of Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!, is stepping down when his current contract expires next May, capping a 25-year career that has seen him produce more than 6,270 hours of programming, most of those on two of TV’s most venerable game shows.
Friedman shared the news with the staffs of both Sony Pictures TV productions this morning at a gathering on the Jeopardy! sound stage, where the Alex Trebek-hosted quiz show is currently taping its 36th season. Wheel of Fortune is now in production on Season 37. Both syndicated staples premiere September 9.
Jeopardy! especially has had a resurgence in the spotlight, with Trebek’s public fight with cancer and phenom champion James Holzhauer (and his 32-game winning streak) fueling big ratings gains.
“I think all of you know how much I love these shows, and that I deeply respect how hard you’ve worked to make them so successful,...
Friedman shared the news with the staffs of both Sony Pictures TV productions this morning at a gathering on the Jeopardy! sound stage, where the Alex Trebek-hosted quiz show is currently taping its 36th season. Wheel of Fortune is now in production on Season 37. Both syndicated staples premiere September 9.
Jeopardy! especially has had a resurgence in the spotlight, with Trebek’s public fight with cancer and phenom champion James Holzhauer (and his 32-game winning streak) fueling big ratings gains.
“I think all of you know how much I love these shows, and that I deeply respect how hard you’ve worked to make them so successful,...
- 8/1/2019
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Quentin Tarantino is curating a film series inspired by his new movie “Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood” that will air later this month on the Sony Movie Channel, Sony Pictures Television announced Monday.
The film series is titled “Swinging Sixties, a Movie Marathon,” which will include nine films from the Columbia Pictures library that were released from 1958 to 1970. All of the movies were handpicked by Tarantino, and each film served as a specific influence on his latest movie, which follows an actor during a changing Hollywood in 1969.
Films such as “Easy Rider,” “Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice,” “Hammerhead” and more will begin airing on the Sony Movie Channel starting July 21, with two films airing each night until July 25.
Also Read: Critics Love 'Once Upon a Time ... in Hollywood' - but Saying Why Might Spoil Everything
Tarantino will also hold conversations with film writer and historian Kim...
The film series is titled “Swinging Sixties, a Movie Marathon,” which will include nine films from the Columbia Pictures library that were released from 1958 to 1970. All of the movies were handpicked by Tarantino, and each film served as a specific influence on his latest movie, which follows an actor during a changing Hollywood in 1969.
Films such as “Easy Rider,” “Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice,” “Hammerhead” and more will begin airing on the Sony Movie Channel starting July 21, with two films airing each night until July 25.
Also Read: Critics Love 'Once Upon a Time ... in Hollywood' - but Saying Why Might Spoil Everything
Tarantino will also hold conversations with film writer and historian Kim...
- 7/16/2019
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Quentin Tarantino has teamed with Sony Pictures Television on Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Quentin Tarantino Present the Swinging Sixties. It’s a series of 10 films personally curated by Tarantino, including Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice and Easy Rider — all of which served as a specific influence in the creation of his upcoming 1969-set film.
The 10 films from the Columbia Pictures library, dating from 1958-70, will air over consecutive nights in more than 80 territories worldwide beginning about one week before Sony’s July 26 theatrical release of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood in each market. Interstitial segments featuring specially created conversations between Tarantino and film writer and historian Kim Morgan will accompany each film, along with a first look at scenes from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
The film series will premiere in the U.S. on Sony Movie Channel from July 21-25, with two films airing...
The 10 films from the Columbia Pictures library, dating from 1958-70, will air over consecutive nights in more than 80 territories worldwide beginning about one week before Sony’s July 26 theatrical release of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood in each market. Interstitial segments featuring specially created conversations between Tarantino and film writer and historian Kim Morgan will accompany each film, along with a first look at scenes from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
The film series will premiere in the U.S. on Sony Movie Channel from July 21-25, with two films airing...
- 7/15/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Mike Richards, a veteran executive producer for “The Price Is Right” and “Let’s Make a Deal,” will be leaving both game shows after signing a multi-year overall deal with Sony Pictures Television.
Richards will start working with Sony beginning in September. Under the new deal, he will develop and produce game shows for Sony’s network, cable, and streaming platforms. He worked on “The Price Is Right” for over 10 years.
“Bringing on an extraordinarily talented and versatile producer like Mike, who has been at the helm of two of the biggest franchises in daytime TV, reinforces our strong commitment to growing our game show business,” Mike Hopkins, chairman of Sony Pictures Television, said. “Mike joining Spt fills out a veritable ‘Dream Team’ of outstanding producers, including Harry Friedman, who produces ‘Jeopardy!’ and ‘Wheel of Fortune,’ two of the longest running and most successful game shows in television. With these flagship shows,...
Richards will start working with Sony beginning in September. Under the new deal, he will develop and produce game shows for Sony’s network, cable, and streaming platforms. He worked on “The Price Is Right” for over 10 years.
“Bringing on an extraordinarily talented and versatile producer like Mike, who has been at the helm of two of the biggest franchises in daytime TV, reinforces our strong commitment to growing our game show business,” Mike Hopkins, chairman of Sony Pictures Television, said. “Mike joining Spt fills out a veritable ‘Dream Team’ of outstanding producers, including Harry Friedman, who produces ‘Jeopardy!’ and ‘Wheel of Fortune,’ two of the longest running and most successful game shows in television. With these flagship shows,...
- 6/26/2019
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
Mike Richards, the longtime executive producer of both “The Price Is Right” and “Let’s Make a Deal,” is stepping down after signing a multi-year overall deal with Sony Pictures Television, Variety has learned exclusively.
Richards will begin working with Sony in September. Under the deal, he will develop and produce game shows for network, cable, and streaming platforms. He has been with both “The Price Is Right” and “Let’s Make a Deal” for over 10 years each.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve done to restore and transform ‘The Price Is Right’ and ‘Let’s Make a Deal’ over the last decade,” said Richards. “My focus has always been to create content that makes the world a better and happier place and I look forward to working with Mike Hopkins and the entire Sony team to create new shows that entertain and inspire.”
Richards has produced over...
Richards will begin working with Sony in September. Under the deal, he will develop and produce game shows for network, cable, and streaming platforms. He has been with both “The Price Is Right” and “Let’s Make a Deal” for over 10 years each.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve done to restore and transform ‘The Price Is Right’ and ‘Let’s Make a Deal’ over the last decade,” said Richards. “My focus has always been to create content that makes the world a better and happier place and I look forward to working with Mike Hopkins and the entire Sony team to create new shows that entertain and inspire.”
Richards has produced over...
- 6/26/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
A funny thing happened on the way to the upfront in a year of major transitions for the largest player in television.
Numerous network and studio executives found a dealmaking environment that was more collegial and collaborative than in the recent past. With so much of the traditional TV business in flux, there was a palpable feeling of competitors taking a long view and trying to find ways to fight through the storm together.
“There was a sense of resignation about the structural changes that took place this past year,” said Peter Roth, president and chief content officer of Warner Bros. TV Group.
The most seismic shift has been the union of Disney and 21st Century Fox and the immense TV content and distribution at the enlarged company. Consolidation and the move into streaming by Disney, NBCUniversal, WarnerMedia and others promises to fundamentally change the economics of television programming. But...
Numerous network and studio executives found a dealmaking environment that was more collegial and collaborative than in the recent past. With so much of the traditional TV business in flux, there was a palpable feeling of competitors taking a long view and trying to find ways to fight through the storm together.
“There was a sense of resignation about the structural changes that took place this past year,” said Peter Roth, president and chief content officer of Warner Bros. TV Group.
The most seismic shift has been the union of Disney and 21st Century Fox and the immense TV content and distribution at the enlarged company. Consolidation and the move into streaming by Disney, NBCUniversal, WarnerMedia and others promises to fundamentally change the economics of television programming. But...
- 5/17/2019
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
It was a little stressful and down to the wire as all of Sony Pictures TV’s new series pickups and some of its renewals did not close until the weekend before the upfronts, but the indie studio ultimately saw four of its six pilots picked up, drama For Life and comedy United We Fall at ABC and drama Lincoln and comedy Indebted at NBC. Excluding straight-to-series orders, that is the studio’s strongest conversion ratio in almost a decade.
Additionally, Sony TV saw all of its broadcast scripted series get renewed; its broadcast tally, including scripted and unscripted series, is 11 series on ABC, NBC and CBS.
That is with the studio, which last year did not get a new broadcast series but landed a series order for its NBC pilot La’s Finest at Spectrum, scaling back on broadcast development, developing about 50% fewer scripts with a targeted approach.
Sony Pictures...
Additionally, Sony TV saw all of its broadcast scripted series get renewed; its broadcast tally, including scripted and unscripted series, is 11 series on ABC, NBC and CBS.
That is with the studio, which last year did not get a new broadcast series but landed a series order for its NBC pilot La’s Finest at Spectrum, scaling back on broadcast development, developing about 50% fewer scripts with a targeted approach.
Sony Pictures...
- 5/13/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Sony Corp.'s Sony Pictures Entertainment said Tuesday that Funimation, the anime distribution and network subsidiary of Sony Pictures Television (Spt), will be led by Colin Decker as general manager.
Funimation was founded 25 years ago by Japan-born Gen Fukunaga, who stepped down as CEO earlier this year to take on a chairman role. Fukunaga retains a 5 percent stake in the company, with the rest acquired by Sony at the end of 2017.
Decker and Fukunaga will report to Mike Hopkins, chairman of Spt.
"Adding Colin’s leadership, experience in emerging media and proven track record of ...
Funimation was founded 25 years ago by Japan-born Gen Fukunaga, who stepped down as CEO earlier this year to take on a chairman role. Fukunaga retains a 5 percent stake in the company, with the rest acquired by Sony at the end of 2017.
Decker and Fukunaga will report to Mike Hopkins, chairman of Spt.
"Adding Colin’s leadership, experience in emerging media and proven track record of ...
Sony Pictures Entertainment this morning held its annual all-hands meeting for employees from all divisions. The yearly “State Of the Union” featured appearances by Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse’s Chris Miller, on the heels of him and partner Phil Lord signing a mega deal with Sony Pictures Television, and by Quentin Tarantino, who showed a five-minute clip from his buzzed about upcoming feature for the studio Once Upon a Time In Hollywood.
Spe chairman and CEO Tony Vinciquerra closed the two-hour event by announcing the naming of one of the main television buildings on the lot in Culver City after Norman Lear.
“Norman and the shows he created defined what great television can be,” Vinciquerra said. “He sits comfortably in the Pantheon of great television legends, and we are honored to have him in the Sony family.”
Lear took the stage to “Movin’ on Up,” the theme song from his hit show The Jeffersons,...
Spe chairman and CEO Tony Vinciquerra closed the two-hour event by announcing the naming of one of the main television buildings on the lot in Culver City after Norman Lear.
“Norman and the shows he created defined what great television can be,” Vinciquerra said. “He sits comfortably in the Pantheon of great television legends, and we are honored to have him in the Sony family.”
Lear took the stage to “Movin’ on Up,” the theme song from his hit show The Jeffersons,...
- 4/30/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.