FIRST LOOK
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ON TELEVISION (THURSDAY 5/1/6/24)
HULU: The Beauty Queen Killer: 9 Days of Terror (Premiere)
PEACOCK: Bronx Zoo ’90: Crime, Chaos and Baseball (Premiere)
MAX: Home Sweet Rome! (Premiere)
CBS: Young Sheldon (Finale) at 8pm
CBS: So Help Me Todd (Finale) at 9pm
NBC: Law & Order (Finale) at 8pm
NBC: Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (Finale) at 9pm
NBC: Law & Order: Organized Crime (Finale) at 10pm
FOX: Farmer Wants a Wife (Finale) at 9pm
After avoiding a face-to-face clash for more than three years, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have agreed to duke it out mano-a-mano on the debate floor at least two times during this election period. The two candidates will first step to the podium on June 27 for CNN, CNN International, CNN en Español, CNN Max and CNN.com and will not have an audience. Moderators will be announced at a later date. On September 10, the two take the floor once again for the ABC broadcast network, streaming network ABC News Live and Hulu. ABC News said it will make the debate available to simulcast on additional broadcast and streaming news networks in America. Information on moderators, format and additional details will be provided at a later date.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Netflix expanded its sports reach with the acquisition of streaming rights for Christmas Day NFL games with two contests this season – the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Houston Texans. The three-season deal also includes at least one game on Christmas Day in 2025 and 2026. According to the Wall Street Journal, Netflix paid about $75 million per game for rights this year. Netflix has dabbled in sports streaming in the past – it has aired NFL docuseries “Quarterback” and the upcoming “Receiver,” one-off events like “The Netflix Cup” golf event, “The Netflix Slam” tennis match and the upcoming Mike Tyson/Jake Paul prizefight and paid $5 billion for rights to the WWE for 10 years.
(Source: Cynopsis)
No Grinches here. Hallmark will open the “Hallmark Christmas Experience” in Kansas City’s Crown Center every weekend beginning November 29 through December 23. The free, open-to-the public immersive experience is designed by Hallmark’s creative team to bring all the charm of a Hallmark movie town square to life.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Travel series “Conan O’Brien Must Go” has been renewed for a second season on Max. In its first season, the comedian visited Norway, Thailand, Argentina and Ireland in four episodes. Season 2 will be expanded to six episodes.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Paramount+ said its next “South Park” exclusive event, “South Park: The End of Obesity,” will premiere May 24. The first six exclusive events – “South Park: Post Covid,” “South Park: Post Covid: The Return of Covid,” “South Park: The Streaming Wars,” “South Park: The Streaming Wars Part 2,” “South Park: Joining the Panderverse,” and the recently released “South Park: (Not Suitable for Children)” – are currently available to stream exclusively on Paramount+. The hit animated franchise, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2022, has been renewed on Comedy Central through 2027, taking cable’s longest-running scripted series through an unprecedented 30th season. “South Park” debuted on Comedy Central August 13, 1997.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Warner Bros. Discovery Hispanic launched “Mas,” its new initiative to deliver culturally relevant content, including the introduction of 10 new FAST channels this year. Scheduled in two phases, the initiative aims to enhance viewer engagement and diversify streaming options for US Hispanic audiences.
(Source: Cynopsis)
UPFRONT UPDATES
Madison Square Garden housed the crowd for the Warner Bros. Discovery event. Chief US Advertising Sales Officer Jon Steinlauf announced a suite of new advanced ad products available on Max, including shoppable ads, advanced contextual targeting and interactive video formats, in addition to the existing premium video ad solutions. “At Warner Bros. Discovery, we drive results for our brand partners to achieve measurable increases in consumer spending, brand awareness and positive brand perception, and today we’re introducing new ad products to further enhance that offering,” said Steinlauf. “Through these innovations, we can align brand messages with relevant on-screen moments and increase the connection between brand awareness and consumer action, as well as create an enjoyable ad experience for our viewers.”
(Source: Cynopsis)
Kathleen Finch, Chairman and CEO of US Networks, was introduced by Adult Swim’s “Rick and Morty,” before sharing news of a “Harry Potter” baking competition at Food Network, the plot of the upcoming “Rick and Morty” anime series, “Shark Week” host John Cena, and a new HGTV series reuniting divorced “Flip or Flop” stars Tarek El Moussa and Christina Hall. “Regardless of how or where they watch, viewers come to WBD for our addictive content,” said Finch. “Only at WBD could we bring one of the biggest action stars face-to-face with the ocean’s biggest predators as John Cena hosts this year’s Shark Week, and also travel to Hogwarts in an innovative new way.”
(Source: Cynopsis)
Streaming was a hot topic – and HBO and Max chairman and CEO Casey Bloys went to the Max. “As we grow we remain focused on providing more and more reasons to make Max the one to watch,” said Bloys. “Subscribers are now looking to us for live news on CNN Max and we’re also offering can’t-miss live sports with B/R sports on Max. This blends seamlessly with HBO, Max originals, Magnolia and a powerful mix of shows from Discovery, TLC, HGTV, ID, Food, TCM, Adult Swim and others.”
(Source: Cynopsis)
Sheereen Russell, EVP of Client Partnerships and Inclusion Solutions, WBD, and Dana Nussbaum, EVP of Worldwide Marketing, Warner Bros. Pictures, showcased the company’s holistic approach to cross-company collaboration. “This past year, we developed new best practices and pathways across all our internal partners to drive success for us and for clients,” said Russell. “We can create bespoke opportunities for the right brands, bringing them directly into meaningful events, major film releases and beloved franchises.”
(Source: Cynopsis)
And of course, there were Shaquille O’Neal and Conan O’Brien. Of Shaq’s endorsement haul, the comedian observed, “In the time that Shaq’s been out here, he has signed deals with the following products: The Shaq and Decker circular saw. The Shaqbook laptop. The Shake Shack Shaq. Shaq Plaque Attack Dental Floss. Shaq Zodiac tarot cards. Shaq Kerouac On the Road Travel Books. The Cheesecake Shaqtory. Shaq Tac Toe. Shaqamole. That’s a fun game. And finally, Shaq oat milk for the Shaqtose intolerant.”
(Source: Cynopsis)
It was Netflix’s second time in the Upfront mix, and Amy Reinhard, President of Advertising, pointed to the continued growth and momentum of Netflix’s ad-supported plan, which now has 40 million global monthly active users — up from 5 million a year ago. Over 40% of all signups in the ads countries now come from the ads plan, she noted. Featured as measurement partners were Affinity Solutions, DoubleVerify, EDO Inc, Integral Ad Science, iSpotTV, Kantar, Lucid, NCSolutions, Nielsen and TVision.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Moving forward, Netflix is launching an in-house advertising technology platform, by the end of 2025. “Bringing our ad tech in-house will allow us to power the ads plan with the same level of excellence that’s made Netflix the leader in streaming technology today,” said Reinhard. This summer, Netflix will also expand its buying capabilities to include The Trade Desk, Google’s Display & Video 360, and Magnite who will join Microsoft as the main programmatic partners for advertisers.
(Source: Cynopsis)
“We’re being incredibly strategic about how we present ads because we want our members to have a phenomenal experience. We conduct deep consumer research to make sure we stay ahead of the competition, bringing opportunities that are better for members and better for brands,” said Reinhard.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, explained that Netflix needs a variety of quality shows, movies and live events across many genres, cultures and languages. Among new series on the way are comedies “Golf,” starring Will Ferrell, and “Running Point,” starring Kate Hudson, and drama “The Waterfront,” from Kevin Williamson.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Vision, content and ads innovation were the buzzwords at YouTube’s 13th annual Brandcast at Lincoln Center. Billie Eilish featuring FINNEAS, and Benson Boone and Stray Kids took to the stage, while YouTube creators Haley Kalil, Kinigra Deon, Ryan Trahan, Shannon Sharpe, Zach King and more highlighted why viewers choose YouTube. “Creators are drawing audiences on the big screen because they’re the new Hollywood,” said CEO Neal Mohan. “They have business strategies, writers’ rooms and production teams. They’re reimagining classic TV genres, from morning shows to sports commentary. And they’re inventing entirely new ones! Creators are redefining what we think of as ‘TV.’ …Young people come to YouTube more than any other platform. Because they know the distinction between scripted and unscripted, between highly produced long-form and quick casual behind the scenes…doesn’t really matter anymore.”
(Source: Cynopsis)
On the business side, Mary Ellen Coe, Chief Business Officer, YouTube, said, “No one is more engaged than loyal YouTube fans. They excitedly count down to new videos, rewatch old ones, and create their own in response. And they rush to their favorite creator’s channel in the 24 hours after new videos are released. Which presents an ideal moment for brands to engage with these fans.”
(Source: Cynopsis)
Among the announcements:
· YouTube Select Creator Takeovers: YouTube Select will now allow advertisers to tap into the top 1% of content on YouTube. With this takeover option, brands will be able to collaborate with top creators to own 100% share of voice on their channel, making the most of creator-fan connections.
· Video Reach Campaigns Non-Skips: YouTube announced a new AI-powered format optimized for CTV, using non-skippable assets across in-stream inventory.
· Branded QR Codes: YouTube is launching branded QR codes giving advertisers an opportunity to weave in their creative into all pieces within these interactive placements.
· Google and Scripps Sports have reached an agreement for locally televised WNBA Friday night games on ION to be shown on YouTube TV in home and away markets of teams playing. YouTube TV will be the only dMVPD carrying both local and national WNBA games this season, starting May 31 and continuing through the regular season.
(Source: Cynopsis)
“The magic of YouTube isn’t just about our scale, or our captivating content, or viral hits,” said Mohan. “It’s that we bring everything together in a way you won’t find anywhere else. There’s only one place where you can find a truly unique connection to fans. There’s only one place where you can reach every audience you care about. There’s only one YouTube.”
(Source: Cynopsis)
AMC Networks’ Sundance Now is the exclusive U.S. home for modern-day witch drama, “Domino Day.” Launched on BBC Three earlier this year “Domino Day” will premiere in the U.S. this summer on Sundance Now and AMC+. The series is a Sundance Now collaboration with British broadcaster the BBC and Fremantle’s Dancing Ledge Productions.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Halfway through its first season, the seven couples on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network’s relationship show “The Never Ever Mets” have finally met face-to-face (with two couples deciding their love cannot survive offscreen) and are preparing for the next phase: learning the art of Japanese bondage, to help practice healthy communication and increase intimacy in their relationships. “The Never Ever Mets” airs on Friday’s at 8p and streams on Max.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Magnolia Network will launch its family-friendly unscripted content slate for Max this fall, including “Roller Jam,” a six-episode competition series hosted by Jordin Sparks; eight-episode talent competition series “Second Chance Stage,” and “Human vs. Hamster,” an eight-episode competition series that lives up to its name. Magnolia’s first-ever social experiment – “Back to the Frontier – is slated for early next year, following three families “transported back in time for two months of life on the 1800s American frontier.” Filming is expected to begin this summer.
(Source: Cynopsis)
The History Channel will premiere nonfiction series “Holy Marvels with Dennis Quaid,” on Monday, June 3 at 10p. The eight-episode series produced by A+E Factual Studios group illuminates the history, mysteries, and journeys behind some of the world’s most sacred and holy relics.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Family Entertainment Television will help raise awareness for EMS Week May 20-24 with on-air promos and interstitials featuring past interviews with Randolph Mantooth and Kevin Tighe, stars of the classic TV show “Emergency!”. The on-air promos will highlight the importance of emergency medical professionals and “Emergency!’s” influence on the growth of the paramedic field.
(Source: Cynopsis)
CBS’ one-hour primetime special on Norah O’Donnell’s interview with Pope Francis will air on Monday, May 20.
(Source: Cynopsis)
AXS TV kicks off the summer season with an all-day Country Music marathon beginning Monday, May 27, at 10a. Lady A discusses their career with Dan Rather on “The Big Interview,” followed by “Lady A: Live From The Artists Den.”
(Source: Cynopsis)
Caitlin Clark’s Tuesday night WNBA debut with the Indiana Fever against the Connecticut Sun averaged 2.6 million viewers, according to AdImpact. Viewership peaked at 8p with an estimated audience of 3.6 million viewers and fluctuated between 3 million and 3.5 million throughout the game. Most viewers watched the game via linear television (56%), while streaming accounted for 44% of total viewership. YouTube TV was the most popular streaming platform attracting 20%.
(Source: Cynopsis)
ESPN’s Monday’s Game 5 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs Game 5 matchup between the Carolina Hurricanes and New York Rangers averaged 1.8 million total viewers (peaking at 2.3 million) and 775,000 P18-49 viewers, a 50% and 40% increase over 2023, making it the most-viewed Game 5 of a second round NHL Playoff series on cable since 2013. Through eight games, the second round on ESPN is averaging 1.64 million total viewers and 694,000 P18-49, up 35% and 25% versus last year. Through 30 games the Stanley Cup Playoffs on ESPN networks are averaging 1.2 million total viewers (508,000 P18-49), up 23% and 17% vs. the comparable point last year.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Sinclair’s multicast networks including Charge, Comet, & TBD (known collectively as “The Stack”), delivered their all-time high in primetime among Adults aged 18-49 and Adults aged 25-54 last week, according to Nielsen data, averaging 66,000 viewers (up 106%) and 90,000 viewers (105%), respectively. The week was one of Sinclair’s highest among Adults aged 35-64, with 153,000 viewers in the demo, up 72%.
(Source: Cynopsis)
“Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants,” from HBO and NFL Films will debut on July 2 at 9p on HBO and will be available tostream on Max with new episodes airing on subsequent Tuesdays through July 30. The five-part series will break new ground in documenting the NFL offseason for the first time.
(Source: Cynopsis)
Tennis Channel will dedicate every Tuesday of each week, beginning June 11, exclusively to women’s competition on its sibling network, T2. Throughout the year, Tuesday’s “Women’s Day” on T2 will feature the best women’s tennis players in the world live and for free.
(Source: Cynopsis)
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