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David Ellison's Paramount is now suing Warner Bros. Discovery
Business Insider· 2026-01-12 15:20
Core Viewpoint - Paramount's CEO David Ellison is pursuing legal action to gain access to financial information from Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) regarding its valuation of cable networks, aiming to facilitate informed decisions for WBD shareholders regarding Paramount's acquisition offer [1][2][7]. Group 1: Acquisition Attempts - Paramount has made eight unsuccessful attempts to acquire WBD, with its latest offer being an all-cash proposal of $30 per share, which is positioned as superior to Netflix's offer [1][3]. - The initial offer from Paramount was made at a significant premium to WBD's share price of $12.54, culminating in the current $30 per share proposal [3][4]. Group 2: Legal Action and Information Disclosure - Paramount has filed a lawsuit in Delaware Chancery Court to compel WBD to disclose financial information necessary for shareholders to evaluate the acquisition offer [6][7]. - WBD has not provided adequate financial disclosures regarding the valuation of the Global Networks stub equity or the overall Netflix transaction, which is required under Delaware law [6][7]. Group 3: Shareholder Engagement and Future Steps - Paramount plans to nominate a slate of directors to engage with WBD's board and propose amendments to WBD's bylaws to require shareholder approval for any separation of Global Networks [4][5]. - The company aims to ensure that WBD shareholders have the final say on which offer is more beneficial, emphasizing the importance of transparency and constructive dialogue with WBD's board [4][9].
Disney could be forced to choose between Jimmy Kimmel and the NFL as massive ESPN deal looms: report
New York Post· 2025-09-22 14:26
Core Insights - The Walt Disney Co. faces a critical decision between maintaining its late-night franchise and upholding a significant partnership with the NFL, potentially leading to the dismissal of Jimmy Kimmel [1][4]. Disney's Late-Night Franchise - Jimmy Kimmel's show was abruptly pulled off the air following controversial remarks about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which ignited a political backlash [6][15]. - The controversy has led to pressure from various stakeholders, including the White House, complicating the situation for Disney CEO Bob Iger [11][12]. - Disney has not provided a timeline for Kimmel's potential reinstatement, with ongoing negotiations and considerations regarding the political climate [16][19]. NFL Partnership - ESPN recently secured a major deal with the NFL, exchanging a 10% equity stake valued at approximately $2–3 billion for access to the NFL Network, RedZone, and fantasy football assets [2][15]. - The deal is under scrutiny as it requires regulatory approval, and there are concerns that political pressures could jeopardize the agreement [3][11]. Political Context - President Trump has a history of conflict with the NFL and has threatened to retaliate against networks that criticize him, which adds a layer of complexity to Disney's situation [3][20]. - Trump's comments regarding Kimmel's firing suggest that the political landscape could influence corporate decisions at Disney [8][12]. Industry Reactions - Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner criticized the handling of the Kimmel situation, highlighting concerns over leadership and the implications for free speech [11][12]. - ESPN's Stephen A. Smith expressed disappointment over Kimmel's removal, emphasizing his contributions to the network and the potential ramifications of the current political climate [17][18].
NICKELODEON SETS LAUNCH FOR TIM REX IN SPACE, BRAND-NEW ANIMATED PRESCHOOL SERIES, ON MONDAY, AUG. 4
Prnewswire· 2025-07-07 15:33
Core Viewpoint - Nickelodeon is launching a new animated preschool series, "Tim Rex in Space," in collaboration with Channel 5's Milkshake!, marking its first global co-production [1][4]. Group 1: Series Overview - "Tim Rex in Space" follows a T-Rex named Tim and his family as they embark on adventures in a unique world made up of asteroids [2]. - The series will premiere on August 4, 2025, airing for three consecutive weeks on Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. channels [1]. Group 2: Production Details - The series is created and produced by Mint Copenhagen, with animation by Jam Media, and features a team of experienced directors and writers [4]. - Key production personnel include Josephine Jerris Margolis, Louise Barkholt, Sam Dransfield, and Andy Potter [4]. Group 3: Voice Cast - The voice cast includes Cassian Swan-Mckee as Tim, Ace Gill as Tommy, Hope Delaney as Tia, and Jamie Smart as Kai, among others [3]. Group 4: Channel 5's Milkshake! - Channel 5's Milkshake! is a leading children's programming block in the UK, catering to preschoolers with a variety of engaging content [5]. - The channel features popular shows like "Peppa Pig," "PAW Patrol," and "Thomas & Friends," and is known for its strong character-led animation [5]. Group 5: Nickelodeon's Position - Nickelodeon, now in its 46th year, is recognized as the number-one entertainment brand for kids, with a diverse global business model [5]. - The brand encompasses television programming, consumer products, digital experiences, and feature films [5].