Streaming TV Streaming News

Streaming TV

Blog

Media Man Streaming Blog

Netflix.com

Netflix to Become New Home of WWE 'Raw' Beginning 2025

BINGE (Australia)

Streaming Television (Wikipedia)

Streaming Media (Wikipedia)

Netflix News

Netflix: Games

Netflix: News

Netflix to Become New Home of WWE 'Raw' Beginning 2025

BINGE (Australia)

Streaming Television (Wikipedia)

Streaming Media (Wikipedia)

Territory Is an Unforgettable Visit to the Australian Outback

Get to know the players vying for power at the world’s largest cattle station

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Is Coming Soon — Here’s Everything to Know

Watch the trailer, learn more about the co-main event and undercard, and prepare yourself for one of the most highly anticipated fights in boxing history, streaming live on Netflix on Nov. 15.

Pop Culture/Entertainment

Streaming

March 6, 2025

1. The Night Agent (Netflix), 1.52 billion minutes viewed
2. Sweet Magnolias (Netflix), 1.07 billion
3. Bluey (Disney+), 1.04 billion
4. The Recruit (Netflix), 956 million
5. Kinda Pregnant (Netflix), 847 million
6. NCIS (Hulu/Netflix/Paramount+), 834 million
7. Grey’s Anatomy (Hulu/Netflix), 791 million
8. Younger (Netflix), 767 million
9. Law & Order: SVU (Hulu/Peacock), 730 million
10. The Big Bang Theory (Max), 728 million

Original Series:

1. The Night Agent, 1.52 billion minutes
2. Sweet Magnolias, 1.07 billion
3. The Recruit, 956 million
4. Severance (Apple TV+), 582 million
5. American Manhunt: O.J. Simpson (Netflix), 519 million
6. Paradise (Hulu), 476 million
7. Squid Game (Netflix), 430 million
8. Invincible (Prime Video), 419 million
9. Apple Cider Vinegar (Netflix), 410 million
10. Beast Games (Prime Video), 381 million

Acquired Series:

1. Bluey, 1.04 billion minutes
2. NCIS, 834 million
3. Grey’s Anatomy, 791 million
4. Younger, 767 million
5. Law & Order: SVU, 730 million
6. The Big Bang Theory, 728 million
7. Bob’s Burgers (Hulu), 725 million
8. Family Guy (Hulu), 711 million
9. The Rookie (Hulu), 689 million
10. American Dad (Hulu), 667 million

Movies:

1. Kinda Pregnant, 847 million
2. You’re Cordially Invited (Prime Video), 431 million
3. The Menu (Netflix), 380 million
4. Back in Action (Netflix), 286 million
5. The Wild Robot (Peacock), 236 million
6. Moana (Disney+), 208 million
7. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (Peacock), 186 million
8. American Renegades (Netflix), 159 million
9. Sing (Netflix), 145 million
10. Frozen (Disney+), 132 million

News

Streaming TV Ratings

As of March 7, 2025, streaming TV ratings reflect the continued growth and dominance of streaming platforms in the U.S. entertainment landscape. While I don’t have comprehensive real-time data for all of 2025, I can provide insights based on trends and specific ratings up to early 2025, drawing from available information.

Streaming viewership has been on a steep upward trajectory. By December 2024, streaming accounted for over 43% of Americans’ total TV viewing time, up from 26% in May 2021, according to Nielsen’s “Streaming Unwrapped” report. In 2024 alone, U.S. audiences spent over 12 trillion minutes streaming—equivalent to 23 million years—a 10% increase from 2023’s 21 million years. This shift highlights how streaming has overtaken traditional TV in many respects, with total TV usage remaining steady while streaming usage surges.

Nielsen’s ARTEY Awards for 2024 crowned Bluey on Disney+ as the top overall streaming title, with 55.62 billion viewing minutes, largely driven by kids aged 2-11 (43% of its audience). For acquired series, the classic western Gunsmoke racked up 10.23 billion minutes across Peacock and Paramount+, appealing strongly to viewers over 50 and Black audiences (36% of its watch time). These figures showcase the diversity of content driving streaming success.

Looking at early 2025, specific weekly ratings from Nielsen provide a snapshot. For January 27–February 2, 2025, The Night Agent on Netflix led with 2.92 billion minutes viewed, followed by The Recruit (1.19 billion minutes) and Younger (1.04 billion minutes), both also on Netflix. Bluey held strong at 1.01 billion minutes, while Apple TV+’s Severance posted 557 million minutes, marking a robust three-week run for the platform (its best since Ted Lasso Season 3 in 2023). Earlier, from January 20–26, The Night Agent hit 3.11 billion minutes, with Severance at 622 million, showing sustained momentum for high-profile originals.

The trend of streaming originals dominating is clear, but acquired content and older shows like Grey’s Anatomy (754 million minutes, January 27–February 2) and Bob’s Burgers (866 million minutes) also retain strong audiences across platforms like Hulu and Netflix.

Paramount+’s Landman (1.38 billion minutes, January 6–12) and Netflix’s Squid Game (2.37 billion minutes in the same week) further illustrate how new releases can spike viewership, though Squid Game dropped 48% from the prior week yet still led by nearly a billion minutes.

These ratings, based on Nielsen’s U.S. TV-only measurements (excluding mobile and computer viewing), suggest streaming’s grip is tightening, with platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Paramount+ leading the charge. For the most current 2025 data beyond February, trends indicate continued growth in original content viewership, alongside steady interest in nostalgic or acquired series. If you’d like deeper analysis on a specific show or platform, let me know! (Grok)

News

Media Man

WWE RAW On Netflix wins Media Man 'Streaming Series Of The Month'; Runner-up: WWE SmackDown (Streaming on Netflix in Australia and some other non-US markets). RAW nor SmackDown are currently in the top 10 streaming charts as far as we can ascertain. RAW peaked at number 1 and 3 positions for the first couple of broadcasts via Netflix.

Zero Hour wins Media Man 'Political Thriller/Drama Of The Year' award. (Currently streaming on Netflix)

*Rakings can vary on a daily basis.
*Correct at time of publication

Sources Include: X, Netflix TUDUM

https://netflix.com/tudum/top10/tv

https://netflix.com/tudum/top10

Predicted Top 10 (January 2025)

WWE RAW

News.com.au - Streaming

The Sydney Morning Herald - Culture - Streaming

News

Streaming Entertainment via Grok; X TV Tipped To Eventually Go Head To Head With YouTube, Netflix, But Will Take Many Years To Get To That Point; Customers Waiting To Churn/Switch. Changes Ahead For WBD, HBO, Binge, Paramount And Many Others - Too Many To List! Media Man Founder and Subscriber TV Veteran

Streaming entertainment has transformed how we consume media, offering a vast array of movies, TV shows, music, and more directly to our devices. Here's a breakdown of what's happening in this space as of my last update:

Major Players:

Netflix: Known for its original content like "Stranger Things," "The Crown," and "Squid Game." They've been pushing into gaming and have been experimenting with ad-supported models.

Amazon Prime Video: Comes with Amazon Prime membership. Notable for "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," "The Boys," and its integration with shopping and other Amazon services.

Disney+: A powerhouse for family entertainment, featuring Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and classic Disney content. It's also expanding its library with more adult-oriented content under the Star banner in some regions.

HBO Max: Offers premium content like "Game of Thrones," "Chernobyl," and a vast library of movies. It's also known for its DC Universe shows.

Apple TV+: While newer, it's making waves with high-quality originals like "Ted Lasso," "The Morning Show," and "See."

Peacock (NBCUniversal): Provides a mix of free and premium content, including "The Office," WWE, and original series like "Punky Brewster."

Paramount+: Combines CBS All Access with content from Paramount, Nickelodeon, MTV, and more, featuring shows like "Star Trek: Discovery" and "The Stand."

Trends and Developments:

Original Content: There's a massive push towards creating exclusive content to attract subscribers. This includes movies, series, documentaries, and even live sports.

Global Expansion: Services are increasingly focusing on international markets, either by offering local content or by making their service available in more countries.

Bundling: Companies are bundling their streaming services with other products. For example, Disney has bundles with Hulu and ESPN+.

Ad-Supported Models: To combat rising costs, some platforms like Netflix have introduced or are considering ad-supported tiers.

Direct-to-Streaming Releases: Movies are increasingly bypassing traditional theatrical releases, going straight to streaming platforms, especially noted during global health crises.

Quality Over Quantity: While there's a lot of content, platforms are also focusing on high-quality, award-winning productions to stand out.

Interactive Content: Some platforms are experimenting with interactive movies or shows where viewers can choose the plot direction.

Technological Integration: Enhanced with technologies like 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos for audio, providing a cinematic experience at home.

Challenges:

Content Saturation: With so many platforms, there's a risk of content fatigue among viewers.

Churn: Subscribers frequently switch between services based on what's currently available, leading to high turnover.

Regulatory Scrutiny: Issues like market dominance, content licensing, and privacy are increasingly under regulatory lenses.

Piracy: Despite advanced measures, piracy remains a challenge, especially for content not easily accessible in certain regions.

If you're interested in a specific aspect of streaming entertainment or want to know about recent developments since my last update, feel free to ask! If there's a particular service or type of content you're curious about, I can dive deeper into those areas. (Grok)

News

Streaming TV

Streaming TV has revolutionized how we consume television content, offering a vast array of shows, movies, and original programming through internet-based platforms rather than traditional cable or satellite TV. Here's a breakdown of what you might be interested in regarding streaming TV as of my last update:

Key Players:

Netflix: Known for its extensive library, original content like "Stranger Things," "The Crown," and "Squid Game," and a global reach.

Amazon Prime Video: Comes with an Amazon Prime subscription, offering shows like "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," "The Boys," and movies, plus the integration with shopping services.

Hulu: Offers a mix of current TV episodes, a robust library of older content, and originals like "The Handmaid's Tale." It's also notable for its live TV option.

Disney+: Focuses on family-friendly content, including Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic. Hits include "The Mandalorian" and "WandaVision."

HBO Max: Home to HBO's acclaimed series like "Game of Thrones," "Chernobyl," plus a wide range of Warner Bros. movies and new originals.

Apple TV+: While newer, it's gaining traction with high-quality originals like "Ted Lasso," "The Morning Show," and "Foundation."

Peacock: NBCUniversal's service, offering a mix of free and premium content, including "The Office," "Parks and Recreation," and new originals.

Trends and Features:

Ad-Supported vs. Ad-Free: Many services now offer tiers where you can choose between watching with ads for a lower price or paying more for an ad-free experience.

Live TV Streaming: Services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV allow streaming of live broadcast channels, appealing to sports fans and those who still want traditional TV experiences.

Bundling: Some platforms offer bundles with internet service providers or other streaming services to reduce costs.

Original Content: There's a significant push towards exclusive, original content to differentiate services, leading to a golden age of TV with high-quality, diverse programming.

Global Expansion: Services are increasingly focusing on global markets, offering localized content or subtitles/dubbing in multiple languages.

Technological Considerations:

4K and HDR: Many services now offer content in 4K resolution and HDR, enhancing viewing quality.

Offline Viewing: Most services allow downloading content for offline viewing, which is great for travel or areas with poor internet.

Smart TVs and Devices: Streaming is not just for computers or smartphones anymore; smart TVs, streaming sticks (like Roku, Amazon Fire Stick), and gaming consoles have made streaming accessible on almost any screen.

Challenges:

Content Fragmentation: With content spread across multiple services, there's a growing issue of "streaming fatigue" where consumers feel overwhelmed by the number of subscriptions needed.

Price Increases: As content quality and exclusivity rise, so do subscription costs, leading to discussions about the cost-effectiveness of streaming vs. traditional cable.

Piracy: The fragmentation and cost have somewhat revived piracy concerns as viewers look for ways to access content without multiple subscriptions.

If you're looking for recommendations or have specific questions about streaming services or shows, feel free to ask! If there's been a significant update or new service since my last update, you might want to check the latest reviews or news for the most current information. (Grok)

Streaming Entertainment News

Netflix Top 10 - February 2025

1. Sweet Magnolias
2. The Åre Murders
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
4. The Night Agent
5. American Manhunt: OJ Simpson
6. The Recruit
7. Cassandra
8. Prison Cell 211
9. Wrong Side of the Tracks
10. Sakamoto Days

Ratings can vary from market to market, and for a variety of reasons. For example, WWE Raw On Netflix had been rated both number 8 and number 4 in previous weeks. Some insiders expect Raw ratings to rise again as WrestleMania Season further heats up in the upcoming weeks, as well as the NFL Super Bowl 2025 now being in the history books (Media Man Group)

News

Netflix Top 10 Movies

Kinda Pregnant
The Menu (Searchlight)
Back In Action
Miss Congeniality (WB)
Fallen (Sony)
American Renegades (LG/EC)
Boss Baby (DW)
How To Train Your Dragon 2
Minions (Uni)
How To Train Your Dragon

News

February 2025

Sport rights, ad tiers reshaping VoD market

Kantar, the marketing data and analytics company, reveals a growing consumer preference for ad-supported streaming, robust momentum for Apple TV+, increasing investment in sports content and Netflix’s continued strength in delivering engaging entertainment in its Q4 Entertainment on Demand (EoD) data on the global streaming market. The study, from Kantar’s Worldpanel division, uncovered the following behaviours between October and December 2024:

Black Doves was the most enjoyed show, followed by The Day of the Jackal, Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Yellowstone and Outer Banks

Apple TV+ and Paramount+ were the fastest growing major VoD streamers year-on-year

Prime Video achieved the highest share of new paying subscribers, with Paramount+ second and Netflix third

Paid ad-supported subscribers rose by 3 per cent quarter-on-quarter

Nearly two in five (38 per cent) of new VoD users opted for premium subscription models

Paid ad-supported captured 35 per cent, FAST accounted for 20 per cent and virtual multichannel video programming distributor (vMVPD) services that offer TV over the internet claimed 7 per cent of the global market

Two in three (66 per cent) new Netflix subscribers chose the ad-supported tier

News

Netflix raises the bar with WWE and NFL

Netflix began 2024 with two major announcements: the removal of its cheapest ad-free plan and an expansion into live sports streaming with the acquisition of WWE starting in 2025. However, as Ted Sarandos emphasised, the focus remains on the entertainment value of sports – a strategy reinforced by Netflix’s highly anticipated NFL Christmas Day games. Sports alone drove 18 per cent of new Netflix subscriptions globally in Q4 2024, helping Netflix to rank third among new paying subscribers globally, recording subscriber growth in nearly every country tracked by Kantar except Australia. Subscriber satisfaction has rebounded to previous highs, reflected in its highest Net Promoter Score (NPS) of +44 since Q1 2022 and underscoring its role in setting the industry standard.

NFL drives growth and starts to unlock international audiences

The progression of sports streaming continues to reshape the media landscape. Following its acquisition of NFL’s Sunday matches for the 2023/2024 season, YouTube TV experienced an impressive 48 per cent surge in subscribers from Q3 2023 to Q4 2024 – a testament to the increasing demand for premium sports content. This performance highlights the value of YouTube TV’s strategic partnership with the NFL to engage new, broader audiences.

American football emerged as the fastest-growing sport in viewership, which now captivates 42 per cent of households watching sport in Q4 2024, up 6 percentage points from the previous quarter. Successful NFL international games in Germany and London, alongside upcoming fixtures in Dublin (2025) and Melbourne (2026), highlight a growing global appeal as media giants compete over untapped international sport audiences.

Meanwhile, Disney pivoted strategically under CEO Bob Iger by merging its Hulu + Live TV business with Fubo following the collapse of Venu Sports. This is in addition to the anticipated direct-to-consumer ESPN launch expected later this year. By integrating ESPN into broader bundle deals to maximise reach, and leveraging curated, sports-focused packages that drive engagement and retention, Disney is strengthening its hold on the media landscape.

In this competitive arena, delivering accessibility, affordability, and a premium viewing experience is paramount. This is evidenced by Comcast Xfinity’s new targeted strategy with its recent launch of a ‘skinny’ bundle offering exclusively live sports and news content. This is designed to appeal to consumers who want a curated output – especially relevant given that 63 per cent of its customers were tuned into sports in Q4 last year.

Andrew Skerratt, Global Insight Director at Kantar’s Worldpanel, commented: “The NFL is rewriting the playbook for streaming. A 48 per cent surge in subscribers isn’t just a number – it’s a stark reminder that fans worldwide are hungry for real-time, premium sports experiences.”

35% of new subscribers embrace paid ad-supported streaming

Ad-supported streaming delivered significant momentum in Q4 2024, with 35 per cent of new VoD subscribers opting for paid ad-supported models – a substantial increase from 21 per cent the year before. Following initial resistance, these tiers are now showing stronger retention rates, driven by the perceived value for money. In fact, 43 per cent of ad-tier users report satisfaction with the value they receive – a rate that exceeds that of ad-free subscription tiers – while only 23 per cent of VoD households oppose seeing ads. As streaming platforms refine their ad strategies, the challenge will be to maintain premium content quality alongside a seamless, engaging ad experience.

Apple TV+ impressive content and bundles drive global appeal

Since its debut in late 2019, Apple TV+ has experienced steady growth but 2024 proved to be a breakout year. Now, 28 per cent of subscribers globally identify Apple TV+ as their primary VoD platform, up 3 percentage points year-on-year. Enhanced content quality, compelling local and international programming, attractive bundled offers, and strategic promotions all contributed to overall consumer satisfaction. Apple TV+ also ranked fourth in attracting new paying subscribers, with 49 per cent of new sign-ups citing bundling and promotional activity as key motivators. This winning mix has driven an impressive 14 per cent year-over-year subscriber growth, including a remarkable 21 per cent increase in Germany.

Skerratt concluded: “Our Q4 2024 data unveils a significant shift in the global streaming landscape. Bold, innovative ad-supported models, live sports integrations, and an unyielding commitment to premium content are rewriting the rulebook on consumer behaviour. Giants like Prime Video, Netflix and Apple TV+ are not just in the game – they’re redefining it by capturing fresh audiences and igniting relentless engagement in a fiercely competitive arena. The future of streaming isn’t a distant dream – it’s a dynamic revolution, balancing stellar content with unparalleled viewing flexibility, and it’s already in full swing.”

News

Netflix's 'The Clubhouse' Docuseries: An Inside Look at the 2024 Red Sox Season

Netflix is set to unveil 'The Clubhouse: A Year with the Red Sox,' a docuseries that will offer fans an unprecedented glimpse into the Boston Red Sox's 2024 season, which concluded with an even 81-81 record. Directed by Greg Whiteley, the series promises to delve deep into the team's dynamics, capturing both the highs and lows of their campaign. Despite the team's average performance, the series has sparked varied reactions among fans; some are thrilled for the insider access, while others debate the focus on a non-playoff team. The docuseries is slated for release in April 2025, providing a detailed narrative of what it takes to navigate through a Major League Baseball season. (Grok)

News

Cobra Kai Series Finale Airs Tonight

The Netflix series 'Cobra Kai,' an extension of the 'Karate Kid' franchise, is concluding with its final episodes. The show has transitioned from a YouTube original to a major Netflix success, impacting fans across generations. As the series finale approaches, there is a palpable mix of excitement and melancholy among fans and creators. Discussions focus on the show's legacy, its evolution, and the emotional impact of its conclusion. Despite the end of 'Cobra Kai,' there are hints of future projects within the 'Karate Kid' universe, suggesting the franchise's story will continue in new forms. The finale is anticipated to be a significant event, with fans expressing their deep connection to the series through various tributes and reflections. (Grok)

News

Netflix Top 10 Sports List:

Here's a rundown of the Netflix Top 10 Sports programs based on the latest available information:

Top Sports Programs on Netflix:

Formula 1: Drive to Survive - Season 7 is anticipated in Spring 2025, offering more drama from the world of Formula 1 racing despite Max Verstappen's championship win.

Full Swing - Season 2 is set to premiere on February 25th, 2025, providing an in-depth look at the PGA Tour with unprecedented access to top golfers.

McGregor Forever - While specific updates for 2025 are not listed, its previous popularity indicates continued interest among viewers.

Break Point - The series continues to delve into the lives of tennis players, though specific updates for 2025 are not detailed.

America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders - Season 2 is in production, focusing on the cheerleading squad's efforts to support their team.

Court of Gold - An upcoming unscripted project following the top men's basketball medal contenders at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Running Point - A new scripted series starring Kate Hudson, loosely based on the Los Angeles Lakers, set to debut in February 2025.

The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan - A documentary series on the intense cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan, scheduled for February 2025.

Starting Five - A basketball documentary following five NBA elite players, set for a late 2025 release.

Matchroom Sports - A docuseries focusing on the success of Britain's Matchroom Sports promotion, with a release planned for 2025.

These titles reflect Netflix's commitment to sports content, blending documentary styles with narrative drama to engage viewers with both the competitive and personal aspects of sports. Remember, this list is based on current announcements and might see changes or additions closer to the release dates. If you're interested in any specific sport or documentary, let me know, and I can generate images or provide more detailed information if available. (Grok)

News

Super Bowl Ads: Top Listings

Here are the top 10 highest rated ads:
Budweiser – "First Delivery" Lay's – "The Little Farmer" Michelob Ultra – "The ULTRA Hustle" Stella Artois – "David and Dave NFL – "Somebody" NFL – "Flag 50" Bud Light – "Big Men on Cul-De-Sac" Uber Eats – "Century of Cravings" Hellmann's – "When Sally Met Hellmann's" Pfizer – "Knock Out" Here are the 10 lowest rated ads as of Monday morning: Tubi – "The Z Suite" Fetch – "The Big Reward" CoffeeMate – "Foam Diva" Cirkul – "You Got Cirkul" OpenAI – "ChatGPT: The Intelligence Age" Squarespace – "A Tale As Old As Websites" T-Mobile – "A New Era in Connectivity" DoorDash – "DashPass Math" Hims & Hers – "Sick of the System" GoDaddy – "Act Like You Know"

The list of winners shows that Anheuser-Busch InBev continues the tradition of unforgettable Super Bowl beer ads once again, taking four places on the top 10 list. The list of losers shows that companies like CoffeeMate and Hims & Hers, which had their first ever Super Bowl commercials may not have hit the mark with consumers watching.

The list below includes all the Super Bowl LIX commercials that aired from the playing of the national anthem to the first ad break after the Eagles won.

After National Anthem: "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning" Trailer, Paramount Skechers TurboTax, brand of Intuit Inc INTU NASCAR on Fox After Coin Toss: Lilo & Stitch live action movie teaser for Disney YouTube TV, brand of Alphabet

After Kickoff, During First Quarter:

Dunkin' "How to Train Your Dragon" live action movie trailer, Comcast Pfizer "Thunderbolts" trailer, Marvel film from Disney MSC Cruises Little Caesars Fox News T-Mobile with Starlink Homes.com, brand of CoStar Group Meta Platforms with Ray-Ban IndyCar racing on Fox Doritos, brand of PepsiCo Cirkul Michelob Ultra, brand of Anheuser-Busch InBev

After End of First Quarter, During Second Quarter:

Disney+ and Hulu streaming platforms Ritz, brand of Mondelez International Red Bull Squarespace "The Floor" on Fox Local Ad Mountain Dew Baja Blast, brand of PepsiCo Instacart, brand of Maplebear Coors Light, brand of Molson Coors Stand Up to Hate FanDuel Kick of Destiny challenge, brand of Flutter Entertainment "Extracted" on Fox Uber Eats, brand of Uber Technologies
WeatherTech TurboTax, brand of Intuit NASCAR on Fox Google Pixel phone with Gemini AI UFL on Fox Rocket Companies
He Gets Us Liquid Death HexClad Duracell, brand of Berkshire Hathaway
OpenAI
CoffeeMate, brand of Nestle NFL youth organizations Ram Truck, brand of Stellantis Hellmann's, brand of Unilever
Pringles, brand of Kellanova
Budweiser, brand of Anheuser-Busch InBev Nike NYU Langone Health Novartis

After End of Second Quarter, During Halftime, During Third Quarter:

IndyCar on Fox MyFitnessPal Yahoo!, brand of Apollo Global and Verizon Inc Southwest Airlines Jewel-Osco, brand of Albertsons Bayer Aspirin
"The Masked Singer" on Fox Fox Nation streaming platform On Holding Angel Soft, brand of Georgia-Pacific Reese's Lava Cup, brand of The Hershey Company
NFL ad Tubi streaming platform, brand of Fox Fox shows Local ad Local ad Salesforce Inc
DoorDash Inc
Meta Platforms Stand Up to Hate Nerds Lay's, brand of PepsiCo "M3gan 2.0" trailer, distributed by Comcast Taco Bell, brand of Yum! Brands Nerdwallet Häagen-Dazs Tubi Fox Nation Bud Light, brand of Anheuser-Busch InBev Hims & Hers Health Poppi TV shows on Fox After End of Third Quarter, During Fourth Quarter: Salesforce Inc Ramp Tullamore Dew whiskey Toyota Sandals Resorts Local Ad Jeep, brand of Stellantis Tubi streaming platform Fox News Stella Artois, brand of Anheuser-Busch InBev Dove, brand of Unilever Booking.com

UFL on Fox Bosch Totino's Pizza Rolls, brand of General Mills
GoDaddy
Fetch TV shows on Fox

The Eagles win 40-22!

Final Ad Spot After Game:

Progressive
Adidas
Cirkul Vrbo, brand of Expedia Group
Universal Resorts
Energy Transfer

News

Super Bowl 2025: Best Ads

The Super Bowl 2025 was a showcase for some of the most creative and memorable advertisements of the year. Here's a rundown of some of the best ads based on various reports and analyses found on the web:

Hellmann's with Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal: This ad was highlighted for its nostalgia factor, recreating the iconic scene from "When Harry Met Sally" at Katz's Deli. The commercial, featuring the actors 35 years later, was praised for its humor and clever integration of the product into the scene. The addition of Sydney Sweeney delivering the memorable line "I'll have what she's having" added to its charm.

Uber Eats "A Century of Cravings": Featuring Matthew McConaughey in a conspiracy theory-themed ad, it suggested that football was invented to make people hungry. With cameos from Kevin Bacon, Martha Stewart, and others, this ad was noted for its entertainment value and for playing into the cultural phenomenon of food and football.

Pringles "The Call of the Mustaches": This ad involved Adam Brody summoning Pringles cans by calling upon the mustaches of celebrities like Nick Offerman and James Harden. It was described as both humorous and a bit unsettling, making it memorable.

Dunkin' "DunKings": Returning with an even bigger ad than before, this one featured Ben Affleck, Casey Affleck, and Jeremy Strong among others, in a seven-minute mini-movie format. It was appreciated for its creativity and entertainment value, solidifying Dunkin's presence in Super Bowl ad culture.

Nike's Tribute to Women's Sports: Amidst a record year for women's sports, Nike's ad was praised for celebrating female athletes while acknowledging the ongoing journey for equality in sports.

Budweiser's "Baby Clydesdale": This ad continued Budweiser's tradition with its Clydesdale horses, featuring a foal eager to join the team, showcasing the brand's iconic imagery in a heartwarming narrative. It scored high on USA Today's Ad Meter.

GoDaddy's "Act Like You Know": Walton Goggins delivered the goods with his unique charm, selling both GoDaddy's AI website builder and a fictitious product, Goggins Goggle Glasses, with humor and style.

Doritos "Crash the Super Bowl": This year's winner of Doritos' fan-made commercial contest involved an alien abduction scenario, adding to the brand's history of engaging and fun ads.

These ads stood out for their creativity, humor, and cultural resonance, capturing the essence of what makes Super Bowl advertising special. They leveraged celebrity power, nostalgia, and unique storytelling to resonate with viewers, making them some of the best commercials of Super Bowl 2025 according to various sources.

Pro Wrestling

Best Heels In WWE/NXT:

Kevin Owens
Logan Paul
Karrion Kross
Drew McIntyre
Jacob Fatu
Tama Tonga
Dirty Dom
Lexis King
Oba Femi
Bronson Reed
Finn Balor
Charlotte Flair
Liv Morgan
American Made/Creed Bros
Brooks Jensen

Best Babyfaces/Good Guys:
Roman Reigns
CM Punk
Penta
Ricky Starks
Cody Rhodes
Rhea Ripley
Seth Rollins
Tony D'Angelo
Sol Ruca
Zaria
Motor City Machine Guys
Alpha Academy

*Pro wrestling lists are subjective in nature, due to professional wrestling being performance art. Crowd reaction and "drawing money" are just as important as in-ring technical performance in many regards. The best pro wrestlers rank highly in many categories (Media Man Group)

News

Pro Wrestling Dream Matches: Fantasy Booking

Penta vs Rey Mysterio
Logan Paul vs Cody Rhodes
Ricky Starks vs Lexis King
Braun Strowman vs Oba Femi
Motor City Machine Guns vs Hardys
Tony D'Angelo vs Nakamura
Oba Femi vs Moose
Roman Reigns vs Jacob Fatu
CM Punk vs Seth Rollins - 2/3 Falls
Charlotte Flair vs Tessa Blanchard - Flag Match!
Jensen vs Dunne

Media Man

UFC wins Media Man 'MMA Promotion Of The Month' award

WWE wins Media Man 'Wrestling Promotion Of The Month' award

Netflix wins Media Man 'Streaming Service Of The Month' award

Cobra Kai wins Media Man 'Streaming Series Of The Month' award

News

Super Bowl Ads: News

Here's a summary of the latest news on Super Bowl ads based on recent information:

Super Bowl 59 features a matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs, set to occur in New Orleans. This year's commercials are heavily focused on humor and celebrity cameos, with a notable absence of ads related to gambling and cryptocurrency.

Advertisers have paid premium prices for ad slots, with some spots reportedly costing around $8 million. Brands like Bud Light, Hellmann’s, and Uber Eats are among those featured, with celebrities such as Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan, Martha Stewart, and David Beckham making appearances in various ads.

Notable Ads: Hellmann’s ad features Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan recreating their iconic scene from "When Harry Met Sally."

Uber Eats has an ad with Martha Stewart and Kevin Bacon, humorously suggesting that football was invented to sell food.

Instacart introduces its first Super Bowl ad with well-known consumer mascots like Mr. Clean and Chester the Cheetah.

Bud Light has a commercial with Post Malone, Shane Gillis, and Peyton Manning.

HexClad and Häagen-Dazs are among the newcomers to Super Bowl advertising this year.

Strategy and Impact: The ads aim to leverage nostalgia and humor to resonate with viewers, potentially avoiding the pitfalls of more controversial or divisive themes.

There's a significant focus on building long-term brand impact through these short, high-profile ad slots, with some brands like Hellmann's and Bud Light banking on star power and comedic elements to leave a lasting impression.

Trends and Reactions: There's a trend towards using AI in ads, with companies showcasing their technological advancements or using AI to enhance ad creativity.
Some ads like Google's for its AI tool Gemini had to be re-edited due to factual inaccuracies, highlighting the risks of live advertising.

General Audience Engagement: Super Bowl ads are not just about the immediate impact; they're about creating moments that can be discussed and shared across social media, extending the ad's life far beyond the game itself.

This year's ads reflect a strategy of fun, familiarity, and leveraging celebrity to capture the vast audience's attention, aiming to make a memorable impact in a setting where viewers are known to pay as much attention to the commercials as to the game. (Grok)

News

Kendrick Lamar to Headline Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show

Kendrick Lamar is confirmed to headline the Super Bowl LIX halftime show, generating immense anticipation among fans. Viewers are eagerly setting reminders not to miss what is expected to be a memorable performance. While there's buzz about potential surprise guests like Drake or Taylor Swift, especially for a rendition of 'Bad Blood', these remain speculative. This event not only underscores Lamar's significant influence in the music world but also acts as a major attraction for those tuning in for the halftime show, illustrating the vibrant blend of music and sports culture. (Grok)

News

Tiffany Stratton Calls Out Charlotte Flair for WrestleMania Showdown

During a recent WWE SmackDown event, Tiffany Stratton, the current WWE Women's Champion, directly challenged Charlotte Flair, the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble winner, to a match at WrestleMania. This confrontation has ignited discussions among fans and analysts about the dynamics of their potential encounter. While some advocate for Charlotte to elevate Tiffany by possibly losing, others argue for Charlotte to continue her dominant streak. The interaction highlighted Tiffany's ambition to carve out her own legacy in WWE, contrasting with Charlotte's established prowess. Although there's speculation about Charlotte's response, the challenge itself has set the wrestling community abuzz with anticipation for what could be a defining moment at WrestleMania. (Grok)

News

Debt-laden Victoria could be paying $15m per match to host NFL

February 6, 2025

The NSW Labor government rejected an offer to secure hosting rights for the first games of top-league American football in Australia after being presented with a “ballpark” cost of $15 million a game.

After the cash-strapped Victorian Labor government announced on Thursday it had landed a multiyear deal with the National Football League to host games featuring the Los Angeles Rams, NSW Premier Chris Minns said he rejected the proposal because the NFL – regularly ranked as the world’s richest sport by revenue – wanted a “king’s ransom”.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a source familiar with the negotiation said “the ballpark position” put to the NSW government was $15 million a game.

Neither Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan nor Visit Victoria chair Andy Penn would say how much the government paid, saying it was commercial in confidence.

Without nominating numbers, Ms Allan claimed there would be economic spinoffs for what is believed to be at least a three-year deal with games to be played at the MCG. (Full coverage via The Australian Financial Review)

News

The Australian Financial Review wins Media Man 'Newspaper Of The Month' award

Streaming TV Rankings

October 15, 2024

Top 10

TV Series:

1. Disclaimer (Apple TV+)

2. Nobody Wants This (Netflix)

3. The Penguin (Max)

4. High Potential (Hulu)

5. Teacup (Peacock)

6. Agatha All Along (Disney+)

7. Only Murders in the Building (Hulu)

8. From (MGM+)

9. Slow Horses (Apple TV+)

10. The Old Man (Hulu)

Movies:

1. It's What's Inside (Netflix)

2. Salem's Lot (Hulu)

3. Caddo Lake (Max)

4. Wolfs (Apple TV+)

5. Terrifier (Prime Video)

6. Terrifier 2 (Freevee)

7. Bad Boys: Ride or Die (Netflix)

8. Hold Your Breath (Hulu)

9. Challengers (Prime Video)

10. Lonely Planet (Netflix)

Streaming Industry News

Olympics fuels US TV viewership in August

September 2024

US Television viewing in August was boosted by the 2024 Paris Olympics, according to The Gauge report from Nielsen. The Summer Games had the most notable impact on broadcast viewership, notching growth levels more typical for September with increases of 8 per cent versus July and 11.7 per cent year over year. The broadcast category ultimately accounted for 22 per cent of TV in August, and when looking week-by-week, its share peaked during the first week of the interval with 24.3 per cent of TV.

On the streaming side, Peacock offered broad Olympics coverage to complement linear offerings, the success of which was demonstrated by a monthly viewership increase of 39 per cent for the streaming service overall, and nearly double the amount of viewers aged 35-49. These factors helped lift Peacock from a 1.5 per cent share of TV in July to a new platform-best 2.1 per cent share in August (+0.6 pts.). It also makes Peacock only the third streaming platform this year to record a 0.5 point share increase or more on a monthly basis, in addition to YouTube (February and July) and Netflix (June).

Olympics programming on NBC drew millions of viewers in both primetime and daytime windows. Across all of NBC’s Olympics telecasts that aired during the August interval, 32 of them totaled more than 5 million viewers, and 17 garnered more than 10 million viewers. Moreover, Olympics telecasts on NBC notched the top 19 broadcast telecasts of the month. Leading the charge with 17.9 million viewers was NBC’s July 30th primetime programme that highlighted Simone Biles and the US women’s gymnastics team winning gold in the team competition, as well as four American medals in swimming and the dramatic bronze-medal victory by the US women’s rugby team.
From a total television usage perspective, August levels were even with July. However, a year-over-year comparison revealed a larger imbalance, as usage this month was up 3.5 per cent versus August 2023. A notable year-over-year difference was also evident among broadcast program genres, with broadcast sports programme viewership up 239 per cent over August 2023, further illustrating the impact of the Games on the overall TV landscape.

Like the broadcast category, cable also exhibited a peak viewing week that coincided with a major TV event. The Democratic National Convention aired for four nights across multiple networks during the final week of the August interval, and during that week, cable’s share of television climbed to 27.9 per cent. The DNC also contributed to the top cable programmes in August, with MSNBC receiving most of the benefits. MSNBC owned the top 11 cable telecasts of the month, and 14 of the top 15. ESPN’s coverage of the Florida State vs Georgia Tech football matchup snagged the 12th spot. In the end, cable viewing was down 2 per cent from July and finished the month with 26.3 per cent of TV.

After several consecutive remarkable months, the streaming category had a softer month in August from a content perspective, but remained the clear winner overall with 41 per cent of TV (down 1 per cent, -0.4 pts.). Only one original programme broke into the month’s top 10 – The Umbrella Academy on Netflix totaled 3.9 billion viewing minutes – while the rest went to acquired titles including Prison Break, which led the way with 5.4 billion minutes across Netflix and Paramount+. Bluey on Disney+ generated over 4 billion viewing minutes to secure the second most watched streaming title this month. The animated Australian import helped drive an 8 per cent increase for the streamer, as Disney+ reached a platform high of 2.3 per cent of TV in August. Some of the 8 per cent boost can also be attributed to Hulu content available within the Disney+ platform to certain package subscribers.

YouTube won the month among streaming services for the 19th consecutive interval, posting another category and platform best in August with 10.6 per cent of TV. Compared with August 2023, YouTube has the largest year-over-year difference in share for any streaming platform and has added 1.5 points to its share of TV (9.1 per cent to 10.6 per cent). Meanwhile, the overall streaming category has gained 2.7 points YoY and is up 11 per cent versus August 2023. (Wires)

X's Grok Helps Fans, Online Publishers And Newsrooms Keep Up To Speed With Latest From 'The Big N'; Netflix Over Delivers Again. Combat Sports And Anime In The Mix; Geeked Week And Month! Media Man

News

New Cyberpunk Animated Series on Netflix

Based on the latest information available up to September 19, 2024, Netflix, in collaboration with CD Projekt Red, has confirmed the development of a new animated project within the Cyberpunk universe. Here's what we know:

Announcement: During Geeked Week, Netflix teased this new project, hinting at a "return to Night City," which suggests it will be set in the same universe as "Cyberpunk: Edgerunners" and "Cyberpunk 2077."

Project Details: While it's confirmed to be set in the Cyberpunk universe, specifics like whether it will be a direct sequel or a new story entirely, akin to "Edgerunners" but with a different narrative or characters, remain undisclosed. There's been no confirmation if this is an "Edgerunners Season 2," though the nature of the announcement leaves room for speculation.

Reception and Context: The original "Cyberpunk: Edgerunners" series was well-received, contributing to a surge in interest back towards "Cyberpunk 2077." This positive reception might influence the new project's direction, aiming to leverage the existing fanbase while expanding the universe's lore.

Teasers and Speculation: From posts on X (formerly Twitter), there's excitement and speculation among fans. The mention of "another animated series set in the Cyberpunk 2077 universe" and teases about exploring new stories in Night City suggest a continuation or expansion of the thematic elements fans enjoyed in "Edgerunners."

Release Information: As of now, no release date or further detailed plot information has been shared. Netflix and CD Projekt Red have promised more details at a later date, keeping the community in anticipation.

This new venture into the Cyberpunk animated series by Netflix represents a commitment to exploring more narratives within this dystopian world, potentially tapping into different aspects of Night City's lore, characters, or even new tech developments within its universe. While fans eagerly await more concrete details, the announcement itself has reignited discussions and excitement around what new stories might unfold in one of the most visually and narratively rich settings in recent sci-fi history. (Grok)

News

Squid Game Season 2 Premiere Date

"Squid Game" Season 2 is set to premiere on December 26, 2024, on Netflix. This information was confirmed through multiple sources, including official announcements and teasers released by Netflix during their Geeked Week event, as well as posts on X (formerly known as Twitter) from various users sharing the premiere date. The season continues the story with Lee Jung-jae reprising his role as Seong Gi-hun, diving back into the deadly games with new twists and returning characters. (Grok)

News

Bridgerton Season 3 Dominates Netflix

Bridgerton Season 3 has emerged as the most consumed series on Netflix in the first half of 2024, amassing 733.8 million hours viewed. This season, focusing on the romance between Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton, has captivated audiences, leading to widespread acclaim and discussions about its popularity and narrative. Fans have particularly celebrated the fulfillment of Penelope's lifelong dream to be with Colin, highlighting emotional moments like their wedding and Penelope's voiceover in the final scene. Despite some criticism regarding the inclusion of certain scenes, the season's success is evident, with many expressing their ongoing affection for the characters and the show's romantic and dramatic elements. (Grok)

News

Wednesday Season 2 First Look Revealed.

The latest on "Wednesday Season 2" includes a behind-the-scenes first look that was revealed as part of Netflix's Geeked Week celebrations, indicating the series will return in 2025. Here's what's known:

First Look: Fans have been treated to behind-the-scenes footage featuring the cast, including Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams, providing a glimpse into what's coming in the new season. This footage emphasizes that Season 2 will be "bigger and more twisted," promising a deeper dive into the horror elements of the series,

Cast and Crew: Returning cast members include Jenna Ortega, Luis Guzmán, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Emma Myers, and more, under the direction of Tim Burton for at least part of the season. The show also features new cast members and promises to expand on the existing characters' stories.

Plot Teases: While specific plot details are being kept under wraps, Jenna Ortega has hinted at incredible set pieces, suggesting visually richer environments or significant events that might tie into unresolved cliffhangers from Season 1, like the transformation and fate of Tyler.

Themes and Tone: There's an indication that Season 2 will continue to focus on Wednesday's journey of self-discovery and her relationship dynamics, particularly her attempt to carve out her path away from her family's influence. Additionally, the emphasis will be on horror over romance, aligning with Ortega's comments about avoiding forced romantic narratives.

Production: Filming for Season 2 commenced in May 2024, with locations including Ireland, signaling a potentially broader or different setting for some of the storylines.

Release: The series is set to return in 2025, maintaining the suspense and anticipation among fans who are eager for more of Wednesday Addams's dark-hearted adventures at Nevermore Academy and beyond.

The excitement around "Wednesday" Season 2 is palpable, with fans and critics alike looking forward to how the series will expand on its established gothic universe while introducing new elements of horror and mystery. (Grok)

News

Based on the information available up to September 19, 2024, here are some updates and insights regarding Netflix:

Pricing and Plans: Netflix offers several subscription tiers, with the most basic ad-supported plan starting at $6.99 per month, which allows streaming on two devices in 1080p. The ad-free plans include Standard for $15.49 per month, which also supports streaming on two devices at 1080p, and Premium for $22.99 per month, which ups the ante to four simultaneous streams at 4K resolution. There's also an option to add extra member slots for an additional cost.

Content Updates: Netflix continues to add new TV shows, movies, and original content regularly. Recent or upcoming releases as of September 2024 include a variety of genres from survival dramas to supernatural horror, indicating Netflix's broad content strategy remains intact.

Event and Announcements: There was an event around the time of inquiry where Netflix planned to reveal updates on several highly anticipated series such as "One Piece Season 2", "Wednesday Season 2", "Black Mirror Season 7", "Squid Game Season 2", "Stranger Things", a "Devil May Cry" anime, and "Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 2". This event underscores Netflix's commitment to both continuing popular series and exploring new avenues like anime.

User Interaction and Features: Netflix provides a service where content can be downloaded for offline viewing, which is particularly useful for viewers on the go or in areas with unreliable internet. The platform's user interface also includes features like profiles for kids with parental controls, and recommendations that improve with more viewing data.

Market Sentiment and Discussions: From X posts, there's considerable excitement and discussion around Netflix's content strategy, with users and media outlets focusing on new releases, price changes, and the platform's approach to both original content and licensed material.

Cost Considerations: There's mention in discussions about how Netflix's cost has nearly doubled for some users, reflecting the ongoing debate on the value of streaming services versus their cost, which might influence subscriber behavior and expectations for content quality and quantity.

Subscription Model: Netflix emphasizes its month-to-month subscription model, which allows users to cancel anytime without long-term contracts or cancellation fees, providing flexibility which is often appreciated in the dynamic streaming market.

Given these points, Netflix in 2024 continues to evolve, focusing on a diverse content library, enhancing user experience through technology and personalization, while facing the usual industry challenges like pricing satisfaction and content competition. The platform's strategy appears to blend global appeal with niche interests, aiming to cater to a broad audience while also pushing the boundaries with original programming. (Grok)

Media Man Editors: Massive few months for Netflix. Also mark down Terminator: Zero, The Queen Of The Villains and Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson (November 2024). And don't forget WWE Raw hits Netflix in January 2025. And even the official WWE Vault YouTube channel has plugged Netflix, and specifically "Dump", while uploading some classic Japanese pro wrestling matches to their own platforms.

Websites

Netflix
http://netflix.com

Netflix: TUDUM
http://netflix.com/tudum

Netflix YouTube
http://youtube.com/@Netflix

Media Man

News

Streaming Movies Top 10 (North America)

August 27, 2024

1. Furiosa (Max)

2. The Union (Netflix)

3. Jackpot (Prime Video)

4. The Instigators (Apple TV+)

5. Alien (Hulu)

6. The Bikeriders (Peacock)

7. Immaculate (Hulu)

8. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (Hulu)

9. Alien: Covenant (Hulu)

10. Twister (Max)

News

Top 10 Streaming TV (North America)

August 27, 2024

1. Bad Monkey (Apple TV+)

2. The Umbrella Academy (Netflix)

3. Industry (Max)

4. The Bear (Hulu)

5. From (Prime Video)

6. Presumed Innocent (Apple TV+)

7. Emily in Paris (Netflix)

8. Time Bandits (Apple TV+)

9. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (Netflix)

10. Evil (Paramount+)

Media Man

Pop Culture/Streaming Entertainment

Top 10 Movies Streaming (United States)

August 20, 2024

Top 10 movies

1. The Instigators (Apple TV+)

2. The Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (Hulu)

3. The Bikeriders (Peacock)

4. Deadpool 2 (Disney+)

5. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Netflix)

6. Twister (Max)

7. Challengers (MGM+)

8. If (Paramount+)

9. Deadpool (Disney+)

10. Wicked Little Letters (Netflix)

Pop Culture/Streaming Entertainment

Top 10 Streaming TV (United States)

1. The Umbrella Academy (Netflix)

2. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (Netflix)

3. Presumed Innocent (Apple TV+)

4. House of the Dragon (Max)

5. Industry (Max)

6. Bad Monkey (Apple TV+)

7. Time Bandits (Apple TV+)

8. The Bear (Hulu)

9. Evil (Paramount+)

10. Batman: Caped Crusader (Prime Video)

Pop Culture/Streaming Entertainment

Top 10 Movies Streaming (United States)

1. The Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (Hulu)

2. Deadpool 2 (Disney+)

3. Twister (Max)

4. Deadpool (Disney+)

5. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Netflix)

6. Tarot (Netflix)

7. If (Paramount+)

8. Wicked Little Letters (Netflix)

9. Challengers (MGM+)

10. Abigail (Peacock)

Others

The Beekeeper (Prime Video)

Find Me Falling (Netflix)

My Spy: The Eternal City (Netflix)

*correct at time of publication

Streaming TV (United States)

Top 10 TV

1. House of the Dragon (Max)

2. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (Netflix)

3. Presumed Innocent (Apple TV+)

4. Batman: Caped Crusader (Prime Video)

5. Time Bandits (Apple TV+)

6. The Decameron (Netflix)

7. The Bear (Hulu)

8. The Boys (Prime Video)

9. Mayor of Kingstown (Paramount+)

10. Evil (Paramount+)

Streaming Service

An online provider of entertainment (music, movies, multi-episode series, etc.) that delivers content over an Internet connection to the subscriber's computer, TV or mobile device.

Netflix, Amazon Prime, Binge (Australia), Kayo Sports (Australia), Hulu, HBO, Disney, ESPN Plus, Gaia, Passionflix, Spotify, Discovery, Peacock, Paramount Plus, Triller TV, UFC Fight Pass, WWE Network and Apple TV+ are examples of paid streaming services.

Examples of free services include Amazon ABC iView, Freedive, Free TV, Hoopla, Kanopy, Pluto TV, Roku Channel, Snagfilms, Sony Crackle, SBS On Demand, Tubi TV, VUDU and Xumo.

The big streamers have been cutting their original content output

Where did all the new shows go?

By Tom Jones

Seasons change

If you’ve been mindlessly scrolling through streaming services and have been feeling even less enthused than usual, you may not be entirely to blame: almost all major US streamers have been cutting their original TV output this year, according to new analysis from Variety.

From content monolith Netflix, which released 203 original shows in the first half of 2023 compared with 174 in H1 ‘24, to Disney+, which has halved its already-slim original TV library as it continues an apparent shift to quality over quantity, shrinkage has hit the streaming world hard. Indeed, of the 8 major streamers Variety studied from Luminate data, only Max and Peacock maintained their output level year over year.

All told, the number of original seasons fell 19% at the 8 streamers tracked.

For a while, it seemed we might float forever on an endless stream of new series, as companies competed to supply viewers who’d become accustomed to basking in the Golden Age of Television. However, the financial reality of producing content in an increasingly-competitive arena where margins are tight and churn rates are growing is becoming apparent.

It’ll be interesting to see how streamers’ original show libraries stack up in the latter half of this year compared to H2 2023, when original production tallies at some major players began to reflect the effects of the extended Hollywood strikes. (Credit: Chartr with Sherwood_

Full article via subscription to Sherwood

Big Streamers Cutting Original Content
https://sherwood.news/culture/big-streamers-cutting-original-content-output-fewer-shows-to-watch/

Streaming Media News

Netflix Netflix Q2 2024 Earnings
https://youtube.com/watch?v=wro9lCCgW0E

Netflix beats estimates as ad-supported memberships rise 34% from last year

Adds 8M Subscribers

278 million global subscribers

The streamer’s global paid memberships rose 16.5% year over year to 278 million. This marks one of the last updates Netflix will release regarding its membership numbers

Shareholder Letter:

“our biggest update in a decade.”

“This new interface provides more visible title information at a glance — including synopsis, genre and ratings”

“Title previews are also larger and more dynamic, with more immersive trailers and bigger box art to make browsing easier. We’ve also simplified the navigation bar and moved it to the top of the page to create quicker, easier short cuts. And this new design includes My Netflix, which has everything members have saved or watched and was previously only available on mobile.”

“The challenge for so many of our competitors is that while they are investing heavily in premium content, it’s generating relatively small viewing on their streaming services and linear continues to decline”

“we believe our biggest opportunity is winning a larger share of the 80%+ of TV time (primarily linear and streaming) that neither Netflix nor YouTube has today.”

“This has driven industry leading penetration, engagement and retention for us, which limits the benefit to Netflix of bundling directly with other streamers”

More Intel:

Netflix shares were down about 1.5% in extended trading following the earnings release.

Company performance per WSJ

Earnings per share: $4.88 vs $4.74 per share expected by LSEG

Revenue: $9.56 billion vs.9.53 billion expected by LSEG

Total memberships: 277.65 million global paid memberships vs. 274.4 million expected, per StreetAccount

Revenue was roughly $9.6 billion, up 17% compared to the same quarter last year, driven primarily by the increase in average paid memberships.

Netflix said it now expects full-year reported revenue growth of 14% to 15%, compared with previous guidance of 13% to 15%.

The company reported net income of $2.15 billion, or $4.88 per share, up from $1.49 billion, or $3.29 per share, during the second quarter of 2023.

Netflix’s global paid memberships rose 16.5% year over year to 278 million. This signals one of the last updates Netflix will release regarding its membership numbers.

News

Netflix Second Quarter 2024 Earnings Interview
https://ir.netflix.net/investor-news-and-events/investor-events/event-details/2024/Netflix-Second-Quarter-2024-Earnings-Interview-2024-HkuRh-_yAj/default.aspx

Pop Culture/Combat Sports News

Netflix

Japanese Female Pro-Wrestling Drama Series ‘The Queen of Villains’ Premieres September 19

How did one woman whip Japan into a frenzy? Launching on September 19, The Queen of Villains unveils the story of Dump Matsumoto, the most terrifying “heel” during the golden age of women’s pro wrestling in Japan. Spanning five episodes, the series explores the events that led to her rise decades ago.

From the ‘70s to the ‘80s, female pro-wrestling tag teams like “Beauty Pair” (Jackie Sato and Maki Ueda) and “Crush Gals” (Chigusa Nagayo and Lioness Asuka) became national icons. They captivated Japan not only by competing but also by singing and dancing in the ring. On the other side of this was Dump Matsumoto, the sworn rival of the “Crush Gals.” She made all of Japan her enemy, wreaking havoc in and outside of the ring. But once upon a time, young Dump Matsumoto was told she was too kind to be a villain. What events made her one of the most disliked figures in Japanese wrestling history?

Bringing these iconic female wrestlers to life is a talented cast chosen through auditions:

Multi-talented comedian Yuriyan Retriever portrays Dump Matsumoto.

Erika Karata (Desert of Namibia) plays Chigusa Nagayo, who starts as a failed wrestling trainee but eventually rises to stardom.

Ayame Goriki (Watashi ga Ore no Jinsei?!) portrays Lioness Asuka, known for being the most athletic and technical wrestler among her peers.

The renowned Osamu Suzuki developed, wrote, and produced the series. After hearing Matsumoto talk about the women’s pro wrestling era on his show, Suzuki was inspired to turn her story into a series and wrote the screenplay himself. Kazuya Shiraishi (The Devil’s Path, The Blood of Wolves, Lesson in Murder) serves as the supervising director, while Chigusa Nagayo herself led the actors’ physical training and presided over the wrestling scenes.

Watch the rise of these women to fame and the lessons their journeys hold today. The Queen of Villains premieres globally on September 19, only on Netflix.

About Netflix Series The Queen of Villains Cast: Yuriyan Retriever, Erika Karata, Ayame Gorik Developer, Producer, Screenwriter: Osamu Suzuki Supervising Director: Kazuya Shiraishi Director: Katsuhito Mogi Writer: Junya Ikegami Producers: Haruhiko Hasegawa Hidehisa Chiwata Produced by: Netflix Production Company: KADOKAWA Release Date: September 19, 2024 Episode: 5 episodes. (Credit: Netflix)

https://netflix.com/thequeenofvillains

#TheQueenofVillains

Logline: The Queen of Villains unveils the untold story of Dump Matsumoto, a professional wrestler who ignited a boom in women's wrestling in the 1980s with her cult-like following. Unlike the iconic “Crush Gals” duo, Chigusa Nagayo and Lioness Asuka, Matsumoto made her mark as the most famous heel. Dominating television screens, they became a cultural phenomenon, captivating Japan. (Credit: Netflix)

Media Man: Pumped for Dump. We used to bring in VHS tapes of Dump and her associates into Australia in the late 80s and early 90s. One of the greatest women pro wrestlers of all time. The killer heel and queen bee of the ring. Netflix makes a killer and smart move in delivering this gem to the global audience. This will more than satisfy the cast majority of pro wrestling and fight fans, and we as those who love the hero vs villain scenario - a base of storytelling. Shakespearean and a beautiful violence. This is pop culture history.

Your text advertisement here from as little as $100USD per 12 months

Profiles

Steaming Television Music Movies Hollywood WWE Wrestling Business Gaming Entertainment

Advertising Promotions

Pop Culture/Pro Wrestling/Streaming News

OVW and pro wrestling lifestyle continues to be showcased via Netflix

Wrestlers | Real Life | Official Clip | Netflix
https://youtube.com/watch?v=2ZCAkE-alzk&ab_channel=Netflix

"I started wrestling kinda like a last-resort type thing. You can only take so many hits before you get angry" Hollywood Haley Evans

At a storied professional wrestling organization, new owners and a roster of rising stars strive to make an impact beyond the ring in this docuseries.

Ohio Valley Wrestling in Louisville, Kentucky was once a proud finishing school for young wrestlers who hoped for a chance at a career in big time Pro Wrestling but times have changed. With new owners in the picture, once-famous pro wrestler Al Snow has been given the summer to turn OVW's dire financial situation around. Wrestlers tells the story of a handful of eccentric misfits who attempt to come together to help Al save this historic gym while achieving their own wild dreams of wrestling professionally. Now streaming on Netflix. (Credit: Netflix)

Wrestlers | Official Trailer | Netflix
https://youtube.com/watch?v=hY9CISx70Oo&t=1s&ab_channel=Netflix

"Wrestling is my escape" Hollywood Haley Evans

Media Man: Strong thumbs up. Much respect. The sort of show you can watch again and again, and gain more insight and respect, as we are. Keeping the dream alive. Never give up.