Let’s not beat around the bush; Marvel’s going through something right now. The superhero studio’s recent output has simply exhausted both casual and hardcore fans alike.
The sentiment appears to be close to universal too: amidst the avalanche of MCU content, there have been too few hits and too many misses. The fact that Bob Iger, Disney’s Chief Executive Officer, has publicly said that they’re going to change strategy and “slowly decrease volume” tells you everything you need to know.
So how does Marvel proceed from here? MCU mastermind Kevin Feige is seemingly planning to course-correct by re-assembling the Avengers sooner rather than later. Next year alone will see the release of Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts, The Fantastic Four, and Blade, followed a few months later by a new Avengers—previously subtitled “The Kang Dynasty,” though that’s reportedly been abandoned.
It’s a sensible play.
The sentiment appears to be close to universal too: amidst the avalanche of MCU content, there have been too few hits and too many misses. The fact that Bob Iger, Disney’s Chief Executive Officer, has publicly said that they’re going to change strategy and “slowly decrease volume” tells you everything you need to know.
So how does Marvel proceed from here? MCU mastermind Kevin Feige is seemingly planning to course-correct by re-assembling the Avengers sooner rather than later. Next year alone will see the release of Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts, The Fantastic Four, and Blade, followed a few months later by a new Avengers—previously subtitled “The Kang Dynasty,” though that’s reportedly been abandoned.
It’s a sensible play.
- 5/21/2024
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
Move over Tinker Bell. Disney is bringing sexy back with the new Country Bear Musical Jamboree outfits for Bunny, Bubbles, and Beulah. The gals are styling in pink and white tutus, white fringed vests, halter tops, wrist cuffs, and pink cowboy hats.
I’m kidding about “sexy,” but I thought it was an odd choice to put them in halter tops and mini skirts. But this is an improvement over the old look. At least they’re wearing bottoms now.
Disney teased the new costumes and showed some behind-the-scenes looks at the costuming department.
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The new show is based on the old “Opry” style shows from Nashville, which is likely where they are taking costume inspiration. Except now they are just singing Disney IP songs because that’s all Bob Iger wants to push current year.
It was...
I’m kidding about “sexy,” but I thought it was an odd choice to put them in halter tops and mini skirts. But this is an improvement over the old look. At least they’re wearing bottoms now.
Disney teased the new costumes and showed some behind-the-scenes looks at the costuming department.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Disney Parks (@disneyparks)
The new show is based on the old “Opry” style shows from Nashville, which is likely where they are taking costume inspiration. Except now they are just singing Disney IP songs because that’s all Bob Iger wants to push current year.
It was...
- 5/21/2024
- by Kambrea Pratt
- Pirates & Princesses
Disney’s U.K. commissioning subsidiary Walt Disney Emea Productions Limited has reported more than a 50% drop in revenue from the previous financial year.
The U.K.-based company, which commissions international productions and co-productions for Disney’s linear networks as well as streaming platform Disney+, reported revenues of £86 million ($110 million) for the year ending in Sept 2023, according to the latest financial report filed at U.K. business registrar Companies House last week.
The figure marks a drop from the previous year’s reported revenue of £215 million ($270 million), which covered the year ending Oct. 2022 and marked an all-time high for the subsidiary. In the year ending Oct. 2021 – which was the first financial reporting year following the launch of Disney+ in the U.K. — the company reported revenues of £43 million.
According to the accompanying financial report, the subsidiary’s directors are “in the process of considering the company’s future” although...
The U.K.-based company, which commissions international productions and co-productions for Disney’s linear networks as well as streaming platform Disney+, reported revenues of £86 million ($110 million) for the year ending in Sept 2023, according to the latest financial report filed at U.K. business registrar Companies House last week.
The figure marks a drop from the previous year’s reported revenue of £215 million ($270 million), which covered the year ending Oct. 2022 and marked an all-time high for the subsidiary. In the year ending Oct. 2021 – which was the first financial reporting year following the launch of Disney+ in the U.K. — the company reported revenues of £43 million.
According to the accompanying financial report, the subsidiary’s directors are “in the process of considering the company’s future” although...
- 5/20/2024
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
‘The Marvels’ was undoubtedly last year’s biggest MCU flop, losing a staggering amount of money. This prompted significant changes across the board, with Bob Iger emphasizing the need for the studio to focus on quality and reduce their creative output.
However, the movie also initiated promising developments, such as the ‘Young Avengers’ project, hinted at by Kamala’s efforts to recruit younger superheroes.
The post-credits scene of ‘The Marvels’ features Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel recruiting Kate Bishop into her new initiative. Kamala also inquires about Cassie Lang, who, as seen in ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,’ goes by the alias Stature. The rumored members of the Young Avengers also include Skaar (Hulk’s son), Wiccan, Speed, America Chavez, Kid Loki, Ironheart, Toussaint, Patriot, and Love from ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’
A few months ago, the ‘Young Avengers’ project was in active development, and now, according to Daniel Richtman, the...
However, the movie also initiated promising developments, such as the ‘Young Avengers’ project, hinted at by Kamala’s efforts to recruit younger superheroes.
The post-credits scene of ‘The Marvels’ features Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel recruiting Kate Bishop into her new initiative. Kamala also inquires about Cassie Lang, who, as seen in ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,’ goes by the alias Stature. The rumored members of the Young Avengers also include Skaar (Hulk’s son), Wiccan, Speed, America Chavez, Kid Loki, Ironheart, Toussaint, Patriot, and Love from ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’
A few months ago, the ‘Young Avengers’ project was in active development, and now, according to Daniel Richtman, the...
- 5/20/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Fiction Horizon
‘The Marvels’ was definitely last year’s biggest MCU flop. The movie lost an eye-watering amount of money and kickstarted some great changes across the board, with Bob Iger himself commenting that the studio needs to focus on quality Asap reducing their creative output.
But the movie did also kickstart great things, for example, the ‘Young Avengers’ project which was teased by Kamala’s initiative as she tries to recruit younger superheroes.
The post-credits scene of ‘The Marvels’ sees Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel recruited Kate Bishop into her own new initiative; she also asked about Lang’s daughter, Cassie, who, as ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’ goes under the alias Stature. The rumored members of the Young Avengers also include Skaar (Hulk’s son), Wiccan and Speed, America Chavez, Kid Loki, Ironheart, Toussaint, Patriot, and Love from ‘Love & Thunder.’
A few months ago, the ‘Young Avengers’ project was in active development,...
But the movie did also kickstart great things, for example, the ‘Young Avengers’ project which was teased by Kamala’s initiative as she tries to recruit younger superheroes.
The post-credits scene of ‘The Marvels’ sees Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel recruited Kate Bishop into her own new initiative; she also asked about Lang’s daughter, Cassie, who, as ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’ goes under the alias Stature. The rumored members of the Young Avengers also include Skaar (Hulk’s son), Wiccan and Speed, America Chavez, Kid Loki, Ironheart, Toussaint, Patriot, and Love from ‘Love & Thunder.’
A few months ago, the ‘Young Avengers’ project was in active development,...
- 5/20/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Comic Basics
Jimmy Kimmel will moderate a conversation between President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama for a Biden campaign fundraiser in Los Angeles next month. The event will also feature special guests George Clooney and Julia Roberts.
The fundraiser will be held June 15, with tickets starting at $250 per person and rising to $500,000 for an “event chair” tier. Proceeds go to the Biden Victory Fund.
Kimmel will not be the first late-night host to dip his toe in the game of presidential moderation this year. In March, Stephen Colbert moderated a New York Biden fundraiser that featured the current president, Obama and former President Bill Clinton in conversation. Per the Associated Press, the event raised $26 million.
News of Kimmel’s gig comes after a big week for the comedian, given he made headlines for his brutal Disney upfront monologue on Tuesday, during which he laid into into CEO Bob Iger, the Golden Bachelor,...
The fundraiser will be held June 15, with tickets starting at $250 per person and rising to $500,000 for an “event chair” tier. Proceeds go to the Biden Victory Fund.
Kimmel will not be the first late-night host to dip his toe in the game of presidential moderation this year. In March, Stephen Colbert moderated a New York Biden fundraiser that featured the current president, Obama and former President Bill Clinton in conversation. Per the Associated Press, the event raised $26 million.
News of Kimmel’s gig comes after a big week for the comedian, given he made headlines for his brutal Disney upfront monologue on Tuesday, during which he laid into into CEO Bob Iger, the Golden Bachelor,...
- 5/19/2024
- by Zoe G Phillips
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This summer’s movie season poses a stark contrast to last year’s blockbuster bonanza, facing a grim forecast with predictions of box office revenues dropping by nearly $1 billion. The expected $3 billion haul is attributed to last year’s Hollywood labor strikes that significantly disrupted production schedules and pushed back film releases. Notably, Disney will release its first Marvel film of the year in July, breaking a long-standing tradition of May releases since 2009. Disney CEO Bob Iger noted, We are always watching and learning from their decision-making processes, emphasizing the strategic shifts within Marvel’s release schedules. Underwhelming Start for The
The post The Fall Guy Box Office Confirms A Harsh Reality After $2.4 Billion Phenomenon first appeared on TVovermind.
The post The Fall Guy Box Office Confirms A Harsh Reality After $2.4 Billion Phenomenon first appeared on TVovermind.
- 5/19/2024
- by Steve Delikson
- TVovermind.com
While Disney’s Bob Iger has noted that Marvel content on Disney Plus will be cut down a bit, it was also announced that the channel was actively developing Hawkeye Season 2. That’s in addition to already announced shows like Daredevil: Born Again, Agatha All Along, Ironheart, and several others, meaning that even if the content is being cut back, there’s still plenty more coming.
A lot of the shows have received pretty tepid reactions from fans, but some, like the recent X-Men ’97 are being raved about. So what’s the best Marvel show on Disney Plus so far? Take our poll and weigh in with your thoughts in the comments!
What's the best Disney Plus Marvel TV Series?WandaVisionThe Falcon and the Winter SoldierLokiWhat If...?HawkeyeMoon KnightMs. MarvelShe-Hulk: Attorney at LawSecret InvasionEchoX-Men '97VoteBack to vote
The post Poll: What’s the best Disney Plus Marvel TV Show?...
A lot of the shows have received pretty tepid reactions from fans, but some, like the recent X-Men ’97 are being raved about. So what’s the best Marvel show on Disney Plus so far? Take our poll and weigh in with your thoughts in the comments!
What's the best Disney Plus Marvel TV Series?WandaVisionThe Falcon and the Winter SoldierLokiWhat If...?HawkeyeMoon KnightMs. MarvelShe-Hulk: Attorney at LawSecret InvasionEchoX-Men '97VoteBack to vote
The post Poll: What’s the best Disney Plus Marvel TV Show?...
- 5/19/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
It's now been over 5 years since Marvel Studios last released an Avengers movie. While Covid and last year's strikes have to take some of the blame, it's fair to say the McU's heroes should have re-assembled by now.
As we write this, Avengers 5 (previously titled The Kang Dynasty) is currently scheduled to arrive in theaters on May 1, 2026, with Avengers: Secret Wars set to follow on May 7, 2027.
With Disney CEO Bob Iger pushing for Marvel Studios to get back top quality over quantity, there are concerns that there's no longer enough time to effectively build to the stories which need to be told in those movies. Then, there's the fact the Multiverse Saga's new big bad, Kang, is reportedly being sidelined.
It's easy to forget that we only saw Thanos in a few brief scenes before Avengers: Infinity War so the villain - or some Variant of him - can still work,...
As we write this, Avengers 5 (previously titled The Kang Dynasty) is currently scheduled to arrive in theaters on May 1, 2026, with Avengers: Secret Wars set to follow on May 7, 2027.
With Disney CEO Bob Iger pushing for Marvel Studios to get back top quality over quantity, there are concerns that there's no longer enough time to effectively build to the stories which need to be told in those movies. Then, there's the fact the Multiverse Saga's new big bad, Kang, is reportedly being sidelined.
It's easy to forget that we only saw Thanos in a few brief scenes before Avengers: Infinity War so the villain - or some Variant of him - can still work,...
- 5/19/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
There are many sung heroes associated with the overall Star Wars franchise, such as Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and George Lucas. However, all of these stars have been lauded for their work humungously and continue to receive praise habitually from fans of the never-dying series.
However, some names that also played a huge role in making the original trilogy of films a reality did not quite get the same due. Among them is none other than Frank Oz, originally a puppeteer, and the man responsible for bringing to life one of the most celebrated characters in the Star Wars universe: Yoda.
George Lucas wanted Frank Oz to be nominated for an Oscar after Empire Strikes Back. | Disney+
Oz’s troubles with respect to his work on the franchise included a ‘freaky encounter’ with snakes. Yes, actual, slithering, poisonous, moving, snakes that he was exposed to by the director, Irvin Kershner.
However, some names that also played a huge role in making the original trilogy of films a reality did not quite get the same due. Among them is none other than Frank Oz, originally a puppeteer, and the man responsible for bringing to life one of the most celebrated characters in the Star Wars universe: Yoda.
George Lucas wanted Frank Oz to be nominated for an Oscar after Empire Strikes Back. | Disney+
Oz’s troubles with respect to his work on the franchise included a ‘freaky encounter’ with snakes. Yes, actual, slithering, poisonous, moving, snakes that he was exposed to by the director, Irvin Kershner.
- 5/19/2024
- by Rishabh Bhatnagar
- FandomWire
Despite Kevin Feigeʼs tireless efforts to keep the cogs of the megalomaniacal Marvel universe running, some of the products like the star-studded Eternals come out a bit worse for the wear and bear the brunt of the fans who remain dejected with the performance of the Phase Four era.
The quality of projects originating in the post-Endgame saga of the MCU have performed categorically worse in the recent past. Regardless, not many original projects coming out of that Phase have received the sequel treatment.
Tiamut in Eternals (2021) [Credit: Marvel Studios]With plenty of Marvel films and television projects now facing criticism over their deteriorating quality, it is only fair for audiences to feel nervous after receiving news about a sequel to a Phase Four film. Moreover, the studioʼs stagnating state of work neither shows improvement nor the desire to achieve it, making it difficult to accept Marvelʼs decision regarding a Phase Four film sequel.
The quality of projects originating in the post-Endgame saga of the MCU have performed categorically worse in the recent past. Regardless, not many original projects coming out of that Phase have received the sequel treatment.
Tiamut in Eternals (2021) [Credit: Marvel Studios]With plenty of Marvel films and television projects now facing criticism over their deteriorating quality, it is only fair for audiences to feel nervous after receiving news about a sequel to a Phase Four film. Moreover, the studioʼs stagnating state of work neither shows improvement nor the desire to achieve it, making it difficult to accept Marvelʼs decision regarding a Phase Four film sequel.
- 5/18/2024
- by Diya Majumdar
- FandomWire
Marvel Television, headed by Jeph Loeb under the watchful eye of Marvel Entertainment Chairman Ike Perlmutter, closed its doors in 2019. At the time, Disney gave full control of the MCU to Kevin Feige, leading to Marvel Studios developing a slate of projects for Disney+.
While Marvel Television made a lot of missteps (we recently broke many of them down here), Marvel Studios quickly learned that developing TV shows wasn't as easy as they might have believed.
Approaching them like movies with "Head Writers" in place of showrunners (and pricey reshoots which fixed glaring issues in post-production) has forced them to go back to the drawing board. Following Daredevil: Born Again's creative overhaul, future small screen projects will be made like traditional TV shows.
They'll also be released under the returning "Marvel Television" banner, a move which shocked fans earlier this week. Talking to ComicBook.com, Marvel Studios Head of TV,...
While Marvel Television made a lot of missteps (we recently broke many of them down here), Marvel Studios quickly learned that developing TV shows wasn't as easy as they might have believed.
Approaching them like movies with "Head Writers" in place of showrunners (and pricey reshoots which fixed glaring issues in post-production) has forced them to go back to the drawing board. Following Daredevil: Born Again's creative overhaul, future small screen projects will be made like traditional TV shows.
They'll also be released under the returning "Marvel Television" banner, a move which shocked fans earlier this week. Talking to ComicBook.com, Marvel Studios Head of TV,...
- 5/18/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
Marvel Studios has been tasked by Disney CEO Bob Iger with getting back to quality over quantity. That's why, moving forward, we're getting three movies per year and only two Disney+ TV shows.
We'd bet on Kevin Feige appearing at both the San Diego Comic-Con and D23 to share an updated Multiverse Saga slate, but some updates come our way today courtesy of scooper Daniel Richtman.
We'll start with Spider-Man 4. That's supposedly set to begin shooting this fall, with the plan being for the movie to arrive in theaters as soon as fall 2025. It's a quick turnaround, but very much in line with the wall-crawler's previous solo outings.
Here's where things get really interesting: Richtman adds that the piece of Venom left on Earth-616 at the end of Spider-Man: No Way Home will play a role in the movie. Given what a dark place Peter Parker is likely to...
We'd bet on Kevin Feige appearing at both the San Diego Comic-Con and D23 to share an updated Multiverse Saga slate, but some updates come our way today courtesy of scooper Daniel Richtman.
We'll start with Spider-Man 4. That's supposedly set to begin shooting this fall, with the plan being for the movie to arrive in theaters as soon as fall 2025. It's a quick turnaround, but very much in line with the wall-crawler's previous solo outings.
Here's where things get really interesting: Richtman adds that the piece of Venom left on Earth-616 at the end of Spider-Man: No Way Home will play a role in the movie. Given what a dark place Peter Parker is likely to...
- 5/17/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
Exclusive: More ensemble drama series are reducing the number of episodes cast members are in as a way to save money. The series regulars on CBS’ FBI and FBI: Most Wanted will have their minimum guarantees trimmed by 2 episodes next season, Deadline has learned. The third FBI series, FBI: International, is not impacted, I hear. Reps for FBI producers Wolf Entertainment and Universal Television declined comment.
As Deadline reported exclusively this week, veteran cast members on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy also are getting their episodes cut next season by 3-4 in a cost-saving measure.
The move for the two FBI series mirrors the episodic guarantees reductions applied to Wolf/Uni TV’s Chicago and Law & Order dramas a year ago. The timing makes sense as such talent cost-cutting usually follows a renewal that nowadays comes with a flat or reduced license fee.
The six NBC dramas were up for renewal last year,...
As Deadline reported exclusively this week, veteran cast members on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy also are getting their episodes cut next season by 3-4 in a cost-saving measure.
The move for the two FBI series mirrors the episodic guarantees reductions applied to Wolf/Uni TV’s Chicago and Law & Order dramas a year ago. The timing makes sense as such talent cost-cutting usually follows a renewal that nowadays comes with a flat or reduced license fee.
The six NBC dramas were up for renewal last year,...
- 5/17/2024
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Now that the upfronts are over, it’s time to hand out much-deserved accolades to those who made this year’s presentations truly unforgettable.
Just remember, everyone’s a winner here. But these folks made the week extra special in New York.
Most Ominous Overture: Kelly Clarkson kicking off a week of upfronts that used to be the sole proprietorship of broadcast networks with tunes like “Whatever Makes You Stronger” and “Since U Been Gone.”
Best Dressed Code Breakers: Men like Bob Iger, Casey Bloys, Mike Hopkins and Rob Wade for appearing without ties. Nothing says we are hemorrhaging money more than a nude neck.
Earworm Award: Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ‘Em and Miley Cyrus’ Flowers that were played on a loop.
Best Joke of the Week: “NBC is launching the new adventure Destination X,” said Seth Meyers at the NBCU upfront. “It was originally titled the Linda Yaccarino story.
Just remember, everyone’s a winner here. But these folks made the week extra special in New York.
Most Ominous Overture: Kelly Clarkson kicking off a week of upfronts that used to be the sole proprietorship of broadcast networks with tunes like “Whatever Makes You Stronger” and “Since U Been Gone.”
Best Dressed Code Breakers: Men like Bob Iger, Casey Bloys, Mike Hopkins and Rob Wade for appearing without ties. Nothing says we are hemorrhaging money more than a nude neck.
Earworm Award: Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ‘Em and Miley Cyrus’ Flowers that were played on a loop.
Best Joke of the Week: “NBC is launching the new adventure Destination X,” said Seth Meyers at the NBCU upfront. “It was originally titled the Linda Yaccarino story.
- 5/17/2024
- by The Deadline TV Team
- Deadline Film + TV
When Emma Stone, star of Disney’s Cruella and Searchlight’s Poor Things, introduced CEO Bob Iger at the company’s Upfronts presentation this week – the first time that the former TV chief had been on stage at the advertising rodeo in 30 years – it was clear that this is no longer just a TV event.
“To say a lot has changed since 1994 would be an incredible understatement and I’m not just talking about the color of my hair, or my fashion choices,” Iger said.
Stars such as Ryan Reynolds, Jamie Foxx, Cameron Diaz, Reese Witherspoon, Will Ferrell and Jake Gyllenhaal were all highly visible presences across the week to promote their recent and upcoming feature films.
It marked a sea change for the Madison Avenue set, who were previously treated to a cavalcade of television stars promoting the small-screen, usually fresh from the broadcast pilot process. Unlike April’s CinemaCon,...
“To say a lot has changed since 1994 would be an incredible understatement and I’m not just talking about the color of my hair, or my fashion choices,” Iger said.
Stars such as Ryan Reynolds, Jamie Foxx, Cameron Diaz, Reese Witherspoon, Will Ferrell and Jake Gyllenhaal were all highly visible presences across the week to promote their recent and upcoming feature films.
It marked a sea change for the Madison Avenue set, who were previously treated to a cavalcade of television stars promoting the small-screen, usually fresh from the broadcast pilot process. Unlike April’s CinemaCon,...
- 5/17/2024
- by Peter White and Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Grab your quiver of trick arrows and prep a boxed Macaroni and Cheese pot because Kate Bishop and Clint Barton could return for Hawkeye Season 2. A target with a rumor at its bullseye is making the rounds today, with whispers of Marvel developing a follow-up to 2021’s Hawkeye series on Disney+. The rumor comes from industry scooper @MyTimeToShineH, who says Marvel plans to put Steinfeld’s Kate Bishop and Jeremy Renner’s Clint Barton at the center of an outrageous plot with The Raid-like elements.
Okay. The last time someone told me something would feel like The Raid, we got 2021’s Mortal Kombat, which was fun, but saying it’s like The Raid is crazy talk. So, pardon me if I’m skeptical. Anyway, @MyTimeToShineH says Hawkeye has been renewed for a second season, with Clint’s brother, Barney, playing a significant role. “The season will be inspired by The Raid,...
Okay. The last time someone told me something would feel like The Raid, we got 2021’s Mortal Kombat, which was fun, but saying it’s like The Raid is crazy talk. So, pardon me if I’m skeptical. Anyway, @MyTimeToShineH says Hawkeye has been renewed for a second season, with Clint’s brother, Barney, playing a significant role. “The season will be inspired by The Raid,...
- 5/17/2024
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
In October 2012, Disney dropped a bombshell, announcing their acquisition of Lucasfilm and the entire Star Wars universe. Along with that, they also revealed they’ve also snagged a treatment for Episodes VII-ix directly from the mastermind himself, George Lucas. Yet, amidst the chaos, it was the Star Wars fans who were confused the most.
George Lucas [Photo: Joey Gannon/Wikimedia Commons]As it wasn’t a secret that Lucas was content to bid farewell to Star Wars after Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. He had no intentions of making a seventh installment. Thus, this left room for many to speculate. And the questions raised: Did Lucas’ vision shape the new era of the saga, or did Disney chart a different course entirely?
George Lucas Didn’t Want to Make Star Wars: Episode VII!
Nearly a decade back, on CBS’ iconic 60 Minutes, host Lesley Stahl dropped a bombshell question on George Lucas.
George Lucas [Photo: Joey Gannon/Wikimedia Commons]As it wasn’t a secret that Lucas was content to bid farewell to Star Wars after Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. He had no intentions of making a seventh installment. Thus, this left room for many to speculate. And the questions raised: Did Lucas’ vision shape the new era of the saga, or did Disney chart a different course entirely?
George Lucas Didn’t Want to Make Star Wars: Episode VII!
Nearly a decade back, on CBS’ iconic 60 Minutes, host Lesley Stahl dropped a bombshell question on George Lucas.
- 5/17/2024
- by Sampurna Banerjee
- FandomWire
2023 turned out to be disastrous for Disney and for Marvel Studios. Most of their movies flopped, and TV shows were met with mixed reviews at best. Disney concluded its first year in a long time not having a billion-dollar movie, and Marvel Studios concluded the year with ‘The Marvels’ which is officially the lowest-grossing movie in the MCU, and the first movie not to break the $100 million threshold at the domestic box office.
Recently, the list of biggest box-office flops was revealed, and most of Disney movies were on it, with ‘The Marvels’ losing an eye-watering $237 million dollars on a single project. This seems like a drop in the bucket for one of the most powerful entertainment and media companies in the galaxy, but it was enough to prompt some drastic changes.
Iger has already announced that they will be drastically decreasing their creative output and in his latest investor conference appearance,...
Recently, the list of biggest box-office flops was revealed, and most of Disney movies were on it, with ‘The Marvels’ losing an eye-watering $237 million dollars on a single project. This seems like a drop in the bucket for one of the most powerful entertainment and media companies in the galaxy, but it was enough to prompt some drastic changes.
Iger has already announced that they will be drastically decreasing their creative output and in his latest investor conference appearance,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Comic Basics
Disney CEO Bob Iger Says Linear TV Can Be Managed In Decline With “Dramatically” Lower Content Spend
In July of 2023, recently returned Disney CEO Bob Iger shocked the media industry by indicating he might be open to divesting the company’s declining linear assets. By last fall, he’d changed his mind, declaring them not for sale. On interviews and earnings calls since, he’s explained why — most recently at the MoffettNathanson media conference, and in the midst of annual upfront presentations to advertisers.
“When I came back, I did declare that everything was on the table. Meaning I wanted to look at our asset base as a company and determine whether we were supporting assets that not only had no growth but were drags on our bottom line. I looked very extensively at traditional media. It was exhaustive in terms of our analysis. And ultimately, we concluded that … it’s not going to be a growth business, but it could become an important component to our...
“When I came back, I did declare that everything was on the table. Meaning I wanted to look at our asset base as a company and determine whether we were supporting assets that not only had no growth but were drags on our bottom line. I looked very extensively at traditional media. It was exhaustive in terms of our analysis. And ultimately, we concluded that … it’s not going to be a growth business, but it could become an important component to our...
- 5/16/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery and Fox’s combined sports streaming service has yet to unveil a price point, but it does have a name.
As announced on Thursday, the service will be called Venu Sports (pronounced like “venue”) and, per its freshly launched website, will “bring the most sought-after live sports from the top leagues and teams, together in one place. All in a new app built from the ground up for sports fans.”
More from TVLineNetflix to Exclusively Stream NFL's Christmas Day Games This YearJason Kelce Officially Joins ESPN's Monday Night Football Pregame ShowWNBA 2024: How...
As announced on Thursday, the service will be called Venu Sports (pronounced like “venue”) and, per its freshly launched website, will “bring the most sought-after live sports from the top leagues and teams, together in one place. All in a new app built from the ground up for sports fans.”
More from TVLineNetflix to Exclusively Stream NFL's Christmas Day Games This YearJason Kelce Officially Joins ESPN's Monday Night Football Pregame ShowWNBA 2024: How...
- 5/16/2024
- by Dave Nemetz and Rebecca Iannucci
- TVLine.com
The three-part Finale of X-Men ‘97 has finally concluded, and what a ride it proved to be! The 10-episode-strong Season 1 of the series presents a stellar narrative that pays off its audience in multiple ways.
The overall narration, the cameos of several Avengers, and the way in which the season combined multiple popular comic book arcs means that X-Men 97 has perfectly recaptured everything the Marvel characters have always been known for.
This, among a range of nostalgia-ridden details, also includes the fact that the franchise in itself has always drawn parallels from the actual world. Whether it be through the intolerance that human beings hold for mutants, the existence of extremism on both sides, or through the polar opposite perspectives that major characters have, X-Men ‘97 perfectly captured the true essence of the popular franchise.
X-Men ’97 is a superhit! | Disney+
That however, might not be accurate as far as Bob Iger is concerned,...
The overall narration, the cameos of several Avengers, and the way in which the season combined multiple popular comic book arcs means that X-Men 97 has perfectly recaptured everything the Marvel characters have always been known for.
This, among a range of nostalgia-ridden details, also includes the fact that the franchise in itself has always drawn parallels from the actual world. Whether it be through the intolerance that human beings hold for mutants, the existence of extremism on both sides, or through the polar opposite perspectives that major characters have, X-Men ‘97 perfectly captured the true essence of the popular franchise.
X-Men ’97 is a superhit! | Disney+
That however, might not be accurate as far as Bob Iger is concerned,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Rishabh Bhatnagar
- FandomWire
The upcoming reboot of ‘The Fantastic Four’ is generating significant buzz as one of the most discussed projects in development. Intended to revitalize the previous ‘Fantastic Four’ franchise, which received mixed reviews at best, the film faces a challenging release amidst criticism of Marvel Studios’ recent underwhelming projects. This cycle has resulted in waning fan interest and Disney earning the unenviable title of the biggest box-office disappointment of 2023.
Paul Walter Hauser, recently cast in an undisclosed role for the film, spoke with Screen Rant about the ongoing development of the movie. He emphasized the meticulous attention being given to ensure its success, noting that there’s a lot at stake for the studio, as they can’t afford another major failure.
I think it’s the folks who are involved. The writers and the director, Matt Shakman, his department heads and the cast alone. I just looked at it and I went,...
Paul Walter Hauser, recently cast in an undisclosed role for the film, spoke with Screen Rant about the ongoing development of the movie. He emphasized the meticulous attention being given to ensure its success, noting that there’s a lot at stake for the studio, as they can’t afford another major failure.
I think it’s the folks who are involved. The writers and the director, Matt Shakman, his department heads and the cast alone. I just looked at it and I went,...
- 5/15/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Fiction Horizon
The upcoming ‘The Fantastic Four’ reboot is one of the most talked about projects currently in development. The movie is supposed to reboot the older ‘Fantastic Four’ franchise which was met with mixed reviews at best.
The movie is also being released in quite an uncomfortable time when Marvel Studios is under scrutiny due to releasing several sub-par projects in the last few years. A cycle that led to fans generally losing interest, and Disney breaking unflattering record as the biggest box-office loser of 2023.
Paul Walter Hauser, recently cast for the movie in an undisclosed role, talked to Screen Rant, and commented on the development of the movie so far, stating that extra care is being put in the movie, as it can’t fail. The studio cannot have another massive flop on its hands.
I think it’s the folks who are involved. The writers and the director, Matt Shakman,...
The movie is also being released in quite an uncomfortable time when Marvel Studios is under scrutiny due to releasing several sub-par projects in the last few years. A cycle that led to fans generally losing interest, and Disney breaking unflattering record as the biggest box-office loser of 2023.
Paul Walter Hauser, recently cast for the movie in an undisclosed role, talked to Screen Rant, and commented on the development of the movie so far, stating that extra care is being put in the movie, as it can’t fail. The studio cannot have another massive flop on its hands.
I think it’s the folks who are involved. The writers and the director, Matt Shakman,...
- 5/15/2024
- by Valentina Kraljik
- Comic Basics
Upfront week’s reliance on films isn’t actually new but it is increasingly bizarre, as evidenced by the top of Wednesday morning’s Warner Bros. Discovery presentation kicking off with sizzle that prioritized features Furiosa, Dune: Part Two and Wonka — when new episodes of the HBO and Max’s flagship Game of Thrones spinoff, House of the Dragon, are just weeks away.
But the opening frames proved to be relatively misleading, as the 90-minute (notably David Zaslav free) pitch to advertisers focused almost exclusively on … advertising. And on linear TV, at that. Film was referenced, of course, but as a vehicle to get Procter & Gamble’s Olay in on the Barbie phenomenon. Ad sales execs literally offered up James Gunn’s first project of the new DC era to the room full of media buyers, asking who wants sponsorship deals ahead of its planned 2025 release: “Do you want to be in Superman?...
But the opening frames proved to be relatively misleading, as the 90-minute (notably David Zaslav free) pitch to advertisers focused almost exclusively on … advertising. And on linear TV, at that. Film was referenced, of course, but as a vehicle to get Procter & Gamble’s Olay in on the Barbie phenomenon. Ad sales execs literally offered up James Gunn’s first project of the new DC era to the room full of media buyers, asking who wants sponsorship deals ahead of its planned 2025 release: “Do you want to be in Superman?...
- 5/15/2024
- by Mikey O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Jimmy Kimmel was in attendance at this year’s Disney upfronts, where the comedian entertained everyone with his comedic gags. During the upfronts, Kimmel touched upon several topics surrounding the entertainment conglomerate, including aiming some zingers at Disney boss Bob Iger.
Jimmy Kimmel poked fun at Bob Iger at the 2024 Disney upfronts.
Kimmel made some light-hearted and humorous comments about Iger. Moreover, with Iger recently coming out of a civil war for control over the company, in which he was backed by George Lucas, Kimmel’s jokes proved to be a hilarious take on the state of Disney’s leadership. Here is what Kimmel said about Iger at this year’s upfronts.
Jimmy Kimmel Roasts Disney Boss Bob Iger at Disney Upfronts
Jimmy Kimmel joked about Bob Iger’s continued control over Disney (Image via Apple TV)
Jimmy Kimmel took the stage during the 2024 Disney upfronts, where he performed a comedy bit,...
Jimmy Kimmel poked fun at Bob Iger at the 2024 Disney upfronts.
Kimmel made some light-hearted and humorous comments about Iger. Moreover, with Iger recently coming out of a civil war for control over the company, in which he was backed by George Lucas, Kimmel’s jokes proved to be a hilarious take on the state of Disney’s leadership. Here is what Kimmel said about Iger at this year’s upfronts.
Jimmy Kimmel Roasts Disney Boss Bob Iger at Disney Upfronts
Jimmy Kimmel joked about Bob Iger’s continued control over Disney (Image via Apple TV)
Jimmy Kimmel took the stage during the 2024 Disney upfronts, where he performed a comedy bit,...
- 5/15/2024
- by Pratik Handore
- FandomWire
Disney CEO Bob Iger said that as the traditional pay-tv universe continues to shrink, the company is cutting its investment in programming for linear entertainment TV networks while amortizing overall content spending across streaming platforms.
The strategy is “to reduce pretty dramatically our investment in content specifically aimed at those traditional networks,” Iger said Wednesday at MoffettNathanson’s 2024 Media, Internet and Communications Conference in New York. The conclusion Iger reached after reviewing Disney’s TV business when he returned as CEO in the fall of 2022 was that “it’s not a growth business, but it could become an important component to our ability to basically engage with the consumer.”
Iger’s comments come a day after Disney’s big upfront presentation in New York announcing a slate of new shows across TV and streaming.
Iger gave credit to Dana Walden, co-chair of Disney Entertainment, who oversees the portfolio of linear networks,...
The strategy is “to reduce pretty dramatically our investment in content specifically aimed at those traditional networks,” Iger said Wednesday at MoffettNathanson’s 2024 Media, Internet and Communications Conference in New York. The conclusion Iger reached after reviewing Disney’s TV business when he returned as CEO in the fall of 2022 was that “it’s not a growth business, but it could become an important component to our ability to basically engage with the consumer.”
Iger’s comments come a day after Disney’s big upfront presentation in New York announcing a slate of new shows across TV and streaming.
Iger gave credit to Dana Walden, co-chair of Disney Entertainment, who oversees the portfolio of linear networks,...
- 5/15/2024
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
New data from Aluma Insights reinforces the claims of Fubo and other pay-tv distributors that the Jv will be disruptive to their market.
The joint venture sports streaming service from Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery has stirred up quite the hornets’ nest of opposition. Fubo has been its main antagonist, and has gone so far as to file a lawsuit alleging that the proposed streamer violates anti-trust laws. Its main argument is that by selling a slimmed-down channel bundle directly to consumers — which has never been available for other distributors to offer — the three companies are creating an unfair business environment that will sap subscribers from live TV streaming services. Executives from Disney, Fox, and Wbd have insisted that the Jv won’t be that disruptive to the current market, but a new survey from Aluma Insights casts doubt on those assertions.
Key Details: Aluma found that 38% of current...
The joint venture sports streaming service from Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery has stirred up quite the hornets’ nest of opposition. Fubo has been its main antagonist, and has gone so far as to file a lawsuit alleging that the proposed streamer violates anti-trust laws. Its main argument is that by selling a slimmed-down channel bundle directly to consumers — which has never been available for other distributors to offer — the three companies are creating an unfair business environment that will sap subscribers from live TV streaming services. Executives from Disney, Fox, and Wbd have insisted that the Jv won’t be that disruptive to the current market, but a new survey from Aluma Insights casts doubt on those assertions.
Key Details: Aluma found that 38% of current...
- 5/15/2024
- by David Satin
- The Streamable
Disney CEO Bob Iger gave a mea culpa for big losses incurred while launching streaming platforms like Disney+ during an investor conference appearance on Wednesday.
“As we got into the streaming business in a very, very aggressive way, we tried to tell too many stories. Basically we invested too much, way ahead of possible returns. It’s what led to streaming ending up as a $4 billion loss,” Iger told the MoffettNathanson Media, Internet & Communications Conference during a session that was webcast.
Iger addressed a falling out with his hand-picked successor, former Disney CEO Bob Chapek, whose tenure he called out for lavish and misplaced content spending. “It was clear to me that our structure was not working, because we were removing accountability from those that were basically investing the most capital was a mistake,” he argued.
Iger said Chapek had moved the P&l (profit and losses) responsibility to the studio’s distribution arm,...
“As we got into the streaming business in a very, very aggressive way, we tried to tell too many stories. Basically we invested too much, way ahead of possible returns. It’s what led to streaming ending up as a $4 billion loss,” Iger told the MoffettNathanson Media, Internet & Communications Conference during a session that was webcast.
Iger addressed a falling out with his hand-picked successor, former Disney CEO Bob Chapek, whose tenure he called out for lavish and misplaced content spending. “It was clear to me that our structure was not working, because we were removing accountability from those that were basically investing the most capital was a mistake,” he argued.
Iger said Chapek had moved the P&l (profit and losses) responsibility to the studio’s distribution arm,...
- 5/15/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Remember Ironheart? She showed up in Wakanda Forever and then vanished. Well, Riri Williams’ Disney+ journey to be the MCU’s replacement for Ironman will finally see the light of day … in 2025.
Several announcements were made at yesterday’s Disney Upfront event. Ironheart was among them, along with yet another retitle for the Agatha series.
Dominique Thorne was present during the reveals. Although the video hasn’t surfaced from this moment, the actress did speak to Deadline on the red (err…blue) carpet.
Dominique Thorne onstage at Disney Upfront for #Ironheart pic.twitter.com/32Bk65YgTi
— Ironheart News (@ironhnews) May 14, 2024
Dominique Thorne on filming #Ironheart and working with Anothony Ramos
pic.twitter.com/Xm62n04feP
— Ironheart News (@ironhnews) May 14, 2024
Although Thorne remained somewhat tight-lipped about the Ironheart show, which wrapped production in 2022, she was willing to give a tiny bit of info:
“I think what I can say is...
Several announcements were made at yesterday’s Disney Upfront event. Ironheart was among them, along with yet another retitle for the Agatha series.
Dominique Thorne was present during the reveals. Although the video hasn’t surfaced from this moment, the actress did speak to Deadline on the red (err…blue) carpet.
Dominique Thorne onstage at Disney Upfront for #Ironheart pic.twitter.com/32Bk65YgTi
— Ironheart News (@ironhnews) May 14, 2024
Dominique Thorne on filming #Ironheart and working with Anothony Ramos
pic.twitter.com/Xm62n04feP
— Ironheart News (@ironhnews) May 14, 2024
Although Thorne remained somewhat tight-lipped about the Ironheart show, which wrapped production in 2022, she was willing to give a tiny bit of info:
“I think what I can say is...
- 5/15/2024
- by Mike Phalin
- Pirates & Princesses
Despite being seen as a step down compared to the original trilogy, George Lucas’ prequel trilogy did add something new to the galaxy far, far away, which can’t be said for the sequels. While it was 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker that put the final nail in the coffin for the sequel trilogy, which pushed Disney to stray away from the big screen releases, the initial entry too failed to win over Lucas.
Lucas criticized the films for their lack of originality, and fans couldn’t agree more with that sentiment, especially in the case of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
George Lucas Was Disappointed by the Lack of Originality in The Force Awakens
A Still from Star Wars: The Force Awakens | Walt Disney Pictures
For George Lucas, it was important that each entry added something new to the franchise, and was disappointed to find out that the first...
Lucas criticized the films for their lack of originality, and fans couldn’t agree more with that sentiment, especially in the case of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
George Lucas Was Disappointed by the Lack of Originality in The Force Awakens
A Still from Star Wars: The Force Awakens | Walt Disney Pictures
For George Lucas, it was important that each entry added something new to the franchise, and was disappointed to find out that the first...
- 5/15/2024
- by Santanu Roy
- FandomWire
Marvel Television was originally a separate entity from Marvel Studios, spearheaded by Jeph Loeb under the watchful eye of former Marvel Entertainment Chairman Isaac Perlmutter.
Before being shut down in 2019 (when Disney handed full control of all things Marvel to Kevin Feige), Marvel Television produced the likes of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Netflix's Defenders slate, and even the likes of Cloak & Dagger, The Runaways, and M.O.D.O.K.
The vast majority of characters were off-limits to Marvel Television, with Marvel Studios' desires prioritised by Disney. For Feige, Loeb's outfit was an annoyance, particularly as much of what they produced - Inhumans, for example - damaged the MCU brand.
Marvel Studios has since discovered that producing TV shows isn't as easy as it looks. Last year, the decision was made to creatively overhaul Daredevil: Born Again and the studio's small screen output as a whole, with "Head Writers" finally replaced with proper showrunners.
Before being shut down in 2019 (when Disney handed full control of all things Marvel to Kevin Feige), Marvel Television produced the likes of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Netflix's Defenders slate, and even the likes of Cloak & Dagger, The Runaways, and M.O.D.O.K.
The vast majority of characters were off-limits to Marvel Television, with Marvel Studios' desires prioritised by Disney. For Feige, Loeb's outfit was an annoyance, particularly as much of what they produced - Inhumans, for example - damaged the MCU brand.
Marvel Studios has since discovered that producing TV shows isn't as easy as it looks. Last year, the decision was made to creatively overhaul Daredevil: Born Again and the studio's small screen output as a whole, with "Head Writers" finally replaced with proper showrunners.
- 5/15/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
Beau DeMayo’s X-Men ’97 flawlessly captured the nostalgia from the original X-Men: The Animated Series, with the same aesthetics and by bringing back the legendary mutants. Captivating audiences with 9 episodes so far, the show is set to release its finale on May 15. Meanwhile, Rogue voice actor Lenore Zann appeared for an interview to speak about X-Men ’97, her experience, and the MCU.
Lenore Zann as Rogue in Marvel’s X-Men ’97
Addressing highly anticipated questions during the interview, the X-Men ’97 voice actor Lenore Zann discussed her opinion on the MCU and revealed her favorite movie from the franchise. Zann shocked fans with her response when she admitted appreciating Brie Larson’s The Marvels while sharing her honest opinion on the box office disaster.
X-Men ’97 Voice Actor Claimed to Love The Marvels
Playing the role of the fan-favorite character Rogue, in Beau DeMayo‘s X-Men ’97, Lenore Zann...
Lenore Zann as Rogue in Marvel’s X-Men ’97
Addressing highly anticipated questions during the interview, the X-Men ’97 voice actor Lenore Zann discussed her opinion on the MCU and revealed her favorite movie from the franchise. Zann shocked fans with her response when she admitted appreciating Brie Larson’s The Marvels while sharing her honest opinion on the box office disaster.
X-Men ’97 Voice Actor Claimed to Love The Marvels
Playing the role of the fan-favorite character Rogue, in Beau DeMayo‘s X-Men ’97, Lenore Zann...
- 5/15/2024
- by Krittika Mukherjee
- FandomWire
If there were any lingering doubts that the Walt Disney Co. is now comfortable leaning into the edgier aspects of its increasingly aligned portfolio, they evaporated about 10 minutes into Tuesday’s upfront presentation when Ryan Reynolds promised that eventual Disney+ library member Deadpool & Wolverine would be a boon to advertisers targeting “testicular trauma” and “cocaine content.”
There was noticeably less cursing than during the week’s previous upfront events, at least until Jimmy Kimmel took the stage, but the embrace of Hard-r content was apparent from the pitch’s opening moments. Emma Stone, the Oscar-winning star of the Disney-produced Poor Things, was on hand to introduce Bob Iger — and, a month after he won his proxy fight with Nelson Peltz, voice her support for the recently embattled CEO.
“I think we’re incredibly fortunate to have a captain like Bob Iger at the helm of the Walt Disney Co., ensuring...
There was noticeably less cursing than during the week’s previous upfront events, at least until Jimmy Kimmel took the stage, but the embrace of Hard-r content was apparent from the pitch’s opening moments. Emma Stone, the Oscar-winning star of the Disney-produced Poor Things, was on hand to introduce Bob Iger — and, a month after he won his proxy fight with Nelson Peltz, voice her support for the recently embattled CEO.
“I think we’re incredibly fortunate to have a captain like Bob Iger at the helm of the Walt Disney Co., ensuring...
- 5/14/2024
- by Mikey O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Jimmy Kimmel is, without fail, the highlight of TV’s upfronts week every year; 2024 was no exception.
The “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” host left no stone unturned in his annual profane and ruthless takedown of everything Disney (and everyone else in Hollywood) wants to sell to advertisers. This year that included the new Disney+ bundle with Hulu and Max, Netflix finally kissing the asses of said advertisers, the AMPTP, “The Golden Bachelor,” and finding a catchy new name for that sports-streaming service Disney is working on with Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery.
He started things off with a huge announcement: Bob Iger’s successor at Disney as CEO is… an artificially intelligent Bob Iger clone. AIger.
“Bob isn’t going anywhere ever again anywhere,” Kimmel said. “We uploaded him to the cloud so that we can live in peace and prosperity under the watchful AI of the Iger. All hail AIger!
The “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” host left no stone unturned in his annual profane and ruthless takedown of everything Disney (and everyone else in Hollywood) wants to sell to advertisers. This year that included the new Disney+ bundle with Hulu and Max, Netflix finally kissing the asses of said advertisers, the AMPTP, “The Golden Bachelor,” and finding a catchy new name for that sports-streaming service Disney is working on with Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery.
He started things off with a huge announcement: Bob Iger’s successor at Disney as CEO is… an artificially intelligent Bob Iger clone. AIger.
“Bob isn’t going anywhere ever again anywhere,” Kimmel said. “We uploaded him to the cloud so that we can live in peace and prosperity under the watchful AI of the Iger. All hail AIger!
- 5/14/2024
- by Tony Maglio and Brian Welk
- Indiewire
“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” host Jimmy Kimmel once again shared the Disney upfronts stage on Tuesday, providing his zingers in person for advertisers and media buyers at the programming presentation for the first time in five years. That’s because last year Kimmel didn’t attend due to the Hollywood WGA strikes. And in 2022, he was in New York — but had to be beamed in to do his routine after testing positive for Covid. (The 2021 and 2020 upfronts were virtual because of the pandemic.)
“Two years ago, I couldn’t be here in person because I had Covid. And last year, I couldn’t be here because of the writer’s strike. And this year I couldn’t think of a third excuse,” Kimmel said. “I tried diarrhea on the plane, but I guess they get that all the time now.”
Kimmel being Kimmel — he’s been doing this at the event for two decades now,...
“Two years ago, I couldn’t be here in person because I had Covid. And last year, I couldn’t be here because of the writer’s strike. And this year I couldn’t think of a third excuse,” Kimmel said. “I tried diarrhea on the plane, but I guess they get that all the time now.”
Kimmel being Kimmel — he’s been doing this at the event for two decades now,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
After a two-year absence from the upfront stage, Jimmy Kimmel was back Tuesday to take aim at Bob Iger, P Diddy, CBS and the new Golden Bachelorette.
Introduced by Kerry Washington — who he said was the “last decent lead-in I ever had” — Kimmel had fun with an artificial version of Bob Iger on screen and another version of the Golden Bachelor franchise called The Golden Retriever: Love is a Bitch.
Here’s his monologue:
“Let’s hear it for all the talented stars who were forced to come here today because of a clause in their contract their agents didn’t bother to read. I am glad you’re all inside. I heard Amazon left you guys out on the porch. You’re lucky you didn’t get stolen.”
“It is so great to be back in the abandoned shopping cart district. And as I look out into your long dead marketing executive eyes,...
Introduced by Kerry Washington — who he said was the “last decent lead-in I ever had” — Kimmel had fun with an artificial version of Bob Iger on screen and another version of the Golden Bachelor franchise called The Golden Retriever: Love is a Bitch.
Here’s his monologue:
“Let’s hear it for all the talented stars who were forced to come here today because of a clause in their contract their agents didn’t bother to read. I am glad you’re all inside. I heard Amazon left you guys out on the porch. You’re lucky you didn’t get stolen.”
“It is so great to be back in the abandoned shopping cart district. And as I look out into your long dead marketing executive eyes,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
During Disney’s upfront presentation today, where Bob Iger actually showed up for the first time in 30 years, Marvel announced the newest title for the Agatha Harkness show. Now it’s called “Agatha All Along.”
My husband has been joking that this would be the title and there it is.
During a video clip, all the various announced titles are flashed, and the “Agatha All Along” song from WandaVision plays.
It was Agatha All Along
Don’t miss the two-episode premiere of #AgathaAllAlong, September 18 on @DisneyPlus. pic.twitter.com/hwPSOeJFv6
— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) May 14, 2024
So far the various “titles” have been “Agatha: Darkhold Diaries,” “Agatha: Coven of Chaos,” “Agatha: House of Harkness,” and “Agatha: Lying Witch With Great Wardrobe.”
The two-episode premiere will be on September 18, 2024. They brought back the Marvel Television logo.
pic.twitter.com/CB2GRfC3IB
— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) May 14, 2024
So there it is. Hopefully, this will...
My husband has been joking that this would be the title and there it is.
During a video clip, all the various announced titles are flashed, and the “Agatha All Along” song from WandaVision plays.
It was Agatha All Along
Don’t miss the two-episode premiere of #AgathaAllAlong, September 18 on @DisneyPlus. pic.twitter.com/hwPSOeJFv6
— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) May 14, 2024
So far the various “titles” have been “Agatha: Darkhold Diaries,” “Agatha: Coven of Chaos,” “Agatha: House of Harkness,” and “Agatha: Lying Witch With Great Wardrobe.”
The two-episode premiere will be on September 18, 2024. They brought back the Marvel Television logo.
pic.twitter.com/CB2GRfC3IB
— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) May 14, 2024
So there it is. Hopefully, this will...
- 5/14/2024
- by Kambrea Pratt
- Pirates & Princesses
Jimmy Kimmel rarely holds back during his annual monologue to Disney advertisers, but this year he was particularly brutal about the state of the business.
The ABC late-night host laid into CEO Bob Iger, the Golden Bachelor, streaming bundles, Star Wars, Elon Musk and many other topics.
Here were some of his best — and most cutting — jokes to the Madison Avenue audience:
— “Golden Bachelor is a key part of our strategy to steal CBS’ viewers by putting them in a house together. We’re now launching the Golden Bachelorette, a game show where you can win an old lady. Joan is our new Golden Bachelorette. She has four kids and two grandchildren. Are the grandkids ready to see grandma get raw-dogged in a jacuzzi?”
— “I’m glad you’re inside. I heard Amazon left you guys out on the porch. You’re lucky you didn’t get stolen. It’s...
The ABC late-night host laid into CEO Bob Iger, the Golden Bachelor, streaming bundles, Star Wars, Elon Musk and many other topics.
Here were some of his best — and most cutting — jokes to the Madison Avenue audience:
— “Golden Bachelor is a key part of our strategy to steal CBS’ viewers by putting them in a house together. We’re now launching the Golden Bachelorette, a game show where you can win an old lady. Joan is our new Golden Bachelorette. She has four kids and two grandchildren. Are the grandkids ready to see grandma get raw-dogged in a jacuzzi?”
— “I’m glad you’re inside. I heard Amazon left you guys out on the porch. You’re lucky you didn’t get stolen. It’s...
- 5/14/2024
- by James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The theme of Disney’s 2024 upfront presentation to advertisers Tuesday was “connections” — and not just because of the running bit started by “Deadpool” star Ryan Reynolds and “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” star Rob McElhenney, which involved their constant replaying of a five-second ad spot that said “Connections!” with a Disneyified logo and voiceover.
No, the symbol of unity across Disney’s brands was made up of a slew of announcements from Marvel, and about such other high-wattage projects as “Star Wars,” “The Bear,” “Only Murders in the Building,” the “Wizards of Waverly Place” sequel series, “9-1-1,” Ryan Murphy’s new slate of FX titles and more franchises with intersecting talent.
Disney kicked off the event when Oscar-winning “Poor Things” star Emma Stone introduced the Mouse House’s big boss, Bob Iger — a job like that would traditionally go to a top ABC star. The use of film talent like...
No, the symbol of unity across Disney’s brands was made up of a slew of announcements from Marvel, and about such other high-wattage projects as “Star Wars,” “The Bear,” “Only Murders in the Building,” the “Wizards of Waverly Place” sequel series, “9-1-1,” Ryan Murphy’s new slate of FX titles and more franchises with intersecting talent.
Disney kicked off the event when Oscar-winning “Poor Things” star Emma Stone introduced the Mouse House’s big boss, Bob Iger — a job like that would traditionally go to a top ABC star. The use of film talent like...
- 5/14/2024
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Sheryl Lee Ralph and Lisa Ann Walter from Abbott Elementary got to call roll at the start of the Disney Upfront Tuesday, which allowed many of the stars from the studio’s movies and networks to sound off (in a video) before the presentation kicked off at the North Javits Center.
And what’s an ABC upfront without the voice of Walt Disney? Yup, he was (heard) there, too. Here’s what else happened at the afternoon shindig:
Emma Stone, whose Oscar acceptance speech for Poor Things was replayed during the opening montage, kicked off the event to remind everyone that the studio was founded more than 100 years ago. Her primary job, though? She was there to introduce Disney CEO Bob Iger. Disney CEO Bob Iger (Disney/Jennifer Pottheiser) Iger returned to the upfront stage, sans tie with his white shirt, for the first time in 30 years. He promised that...
And what’s an ABC upfront without the voice of Walt Disney? Yup, he was (heard) there, too. Here’s what else happened at the afternoon shindig:
Emma Stone, whose Oscar acceptance speech for Poor Things was replayed during the opening montage, kicked off the event to remind everyone that the studio was founded more than 100 years ago. Her primary job, though? She was there to introduce Disney CEO Bob Iger. Disney CEO Bob Iger (Disney/Jennifer Pottheiser) Iger returned to the upfront stage, sans tie with his white shirt, for the first time in 30 years. He promised that...
- 5/14/2024
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
There’s a new slate of Marvel shows coming to Disney+ soon.
During Disney’s Upfront presentation, Marvel Studios revealed that Agatha All Along will be flying onto the streamer on September 18. Two episodes will be available at launch, with episodes becoming available weekly thereafter.
Meanwhile, audiences can expect Daredevil: Born Again in March 2025. Ironheart is also coming in 2025, though the studio didn’t say when, exactly, to expect that series.
Kathryn Hahn is reprising her role of Agatha Harkness for the upcoming Wandavision spinoff, which Disney+ has already teased. With the Blu-Ray release of WandaVision, Marvel Studios snuck a little preview of the spinoff where Hahn and creators spoke about the making of the series, claiming there’s been “nothing more delicious.”
Related: Bob Iger Returns To Upfront Stage For First Time Since 1994 With Pitchman Praise For Disney’s “Creative Excellence” & Jimmy Kimmel’s Roast To Follow
Agatha: Darkhold...
During Disney’s Upfront presentation, Marvel Studios revealed that Agatha All Along will be flying onto the streamer on September 18. Two episodes will be available at launch, with episodes becoming available weekly thereafter.
Meanwhile, audiences can expect Daredevil: Born Again in March 2025. Ironheart is also coming in 2025, though the studio didn’t say when, exactly, to expect that series.
Kathryn Hahn is reprising her role of Agatha Harkness for the upcoming Wandavision spinoff, which Disney+ has already teased. With the Blu-Ray release of WandaVision, Marvel Studios snuck a little preview of the spinoff where Hahn and creators spoke about the making of the series, claiming there’s been “nothing more delicious.”
Related: Bob Iger Returns To Upfront Stage For First Time Since 1994 With Pitchman Praise For Disney’s “Creative Excellence” & Jimmy Kimmel’s Roast To Follow
Agatha: Darkhold...
- 5/14/2024
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Selena Gomez revealed the new Wizards Of Waverly Place spinoff will be known as Wizards Beyond Waverly Place during Disney’s upfront Tuesday. She also shared two first-look images you can find below.
The photos give fans a look at grownup Alex and Justin Russo, played by Gomez and David Henrie, who are reprising their roles. A secondary image introduces the spinoff’s new characters: Billie, portrayed by Janice LeAnn Brown, and the Russo family, played by Mimi Gianopulos (Giada Russo), Alkaio Thiele (Roman Russo) and Max Matenko (Milo Russo).
In addition to the above talent, Taylor Cora will join the series’ regular cast in the role of Winter, Billie’s bubbly, quirky and oversharing best friend.
Related: Bob Iger Returns To Upfront Stage For First Time Since 1994 With Pitchman Praise For Disney’s “Creative Excellence” & Jimmy Kimmel’s Roast To Follow
Wizards Beyond Waverly Place follows an adult Justin Russo,...
The photos give fans a look at grownup Alex and Justin Russo, played by Gomez and David Henrie, who are reprising their roles. A secondary image introduces the spinoff’s new characters: Billie, portrayed by Janice LeAnn Brown, and the Russo family, played by Mimi Gianopulos (Giada Russo), Alkaio Thiele (Roman Russo) and Max Matenko (Milo Russo).
In addition to the above talent, Taylor Cora will join the series’ regular cast in the role of Winter, Billie’s bubbly, quirky and oversharing best friend.
Related: Bob Iger Returns To Upfront Stage For First Time Since 1994 With Pitchman Praise For Disney’s “Creative Excellence” & Jimmy Kimmel’s Roast To Follow
Wizards Beyond Waverly Place follows an adult Justin Russo,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Rita Ferro, president of global advertising at Disney, emphasized the company’s reach during the company’s upfronts presentation to advertisers Tuesday.
Before detailing the company’s daily interactions with half the world’s population, its industry-leading 11.5% share of content distribution in April (according to Nielsen) and its “billions of consumer touchpoints,” Ferro got animated. She was depicted in a short sketch that placed her in the middle of the Family Guy set, seated on the living-room couch in between Peter Griffin and his dog, Brian. (See a still from the short below.)
“Sorry I’m late – I was streaming,” Peter jokes in the sketch, emphasizing the last word of the sentence after he is shown leaving the bathroom. “I didn’t really hear the sink running in the bathroom,” the animated version of Ferro responds, before delivering a rapid-fire pitch for Disney’s wares.
Related: Marvel Teases Disney+ Release Dates For ‘Agatha All Along,...
Before detailing the company’s daily interactions with half the world’s population, its industry-leading 11.5% share of content distribution in April (according to Nielsen) and its “billions of consumer touchpoints,” Ferro got animated. She was depicted in a short sketch that placed her in the middle of the Family Guy set, seated on the living-room couch in between Peter Griffin and his dog, Brian. (See a still from the short below.)
“Sorry I’m late – I was streaming,” Peter jokes in the sketch, emphasizing the last word of the sentence after he is shown leaving the bathroom. “I didn’t really hear the sink running in the bathroom,” the animated version of Ferro responds, before delivering a rapid-fire pitch for Disney’s wares.
Related: Marvel Teases Disney+ Release Dates For ‘Agatha All Along,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Jason Kelce, who retired earlier this year after 13 years with the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles, told the crowd at Disney’s upfront how pumped he is to be joining “Monday Night Freakin’ Football!”
While he kept his shirt on, Kelce summoned the emotional intensity of his retirement announcement. When Abbot Elementary’s Quinta Brunson introduced him, Kelce hoisted her up off her feet, prompting the TV creator to joke that she felt like she’d just been on the Guardians of the Galaxy ride.
Kelce’s retirement was magnified by him becoming a player in the widely obsessed about romance between his brother, Travis, a member of the Super Bowl-winning Kansas City Chiefs, and pop superstar Taylor Swift. As the Chiefs marched through the playoffs, the Eagles wound up at home, giving Jason Kelce the chance to...
While he kept his shirt on, Kelce summoned the emotional intensity of his retirement announcement. When Abbot Elementary’s Quinta Brunson introduced him, Kelce hoisted her up off her feet, prompting the TV creator to joke that she felt like she’d just been on the Guardians of the Galaxy ride.
Kelce’s retirement was magnified by him becoming a player in the widely obsessed about romance between his brother, Travis, a member of the Super Bowl-winning Kansas City Chiefs, and pop superstar Taylor Swift. As the Chiefs marched through the playoffs, the Eagles wound up at home, giving Jason Kelce the chance to...
- 5/14/2024
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
The Goat Serena Williams has been tapped to host the 2024 Espys, set for July 11 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
The news was announced Tuesday during Disney’s Upfront presentation in New York City.
Williams, regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, was ranked world No.1 in singles by the Women’s Tennis Association for 319 weeks, including a joint-record 186 consecutive weeks, and finished as the year-end No.1 five times. She won 23 major (Grand Slam) women’s singles titles, the most in the Open Era, and the second-most of all time. She earned 14 doubles titles with her sister Venus and two mixed doubles titles. Williams retired in September 2022, walking away with 73 singles titles and $94.8 million in prize earnings, per the Wta Tour.
Williams currently has several TV/film projects in the works, including ESPN docuseries In The Arena: Serena Williams, set to premiere July 10 on ESPN...
The news was announced Tuesday during Disney’s Upfront presentation in New York City.
Williams, regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, was ranked world No.1 in singles by the Women’s Tennis Association for 319 weeks, including a joint-record 186 consecutive weeks, and finished as the year-end No.1 five times. She won 23 major (Grand Slam) women’s singles titles, the most in the Open Era, and the second-most of all time. She earned 14 doubles titles with her sister Venus and two mixed doubles titles. Williams retired in September 2022, walking away with 73 singles titles and $94.8 million in prize earnings, per the Wta Tour.
Williams currently has several TV/film projects in the works, including ESPN docuseries In The Arena: Serena Williams, set to premiere July 10 on ESPN...
- 5/14/2024
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Joan Vassos is getting another shot at love.
The 61-year-old school administrator has been cast as the inaugural Golden Bachelorette, ABC announced Tuesday during Disney’s Upfront presentation.
Vassos was an early frontrunner during Gerry Turner’s season of The Golden Bachelor. She unfortunately had to voluntarily leave the show during Week 3 due to a family emergency. During the Women Tell All, Vassos admitted that she felt there was some unfinished business between her and Turner. At times, she said it was hard not to wonder what may have happened if she’d stayed.
ABC also announced that The Golden Bachelorette, which debuts this fall, will air on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Et/Pt before new episodes of Abbott Elementary.
Related: Bob Iger Returns To Upfront Stage For First Time Since 1994 With Pitchman Praise For Disney’s “Creative Excellence” & Jimmy Kimmel’s Roast To Follow
The Golden Bachelorette joins a...
The 61-year-old school administrator has been cast as the inaugural Golden Bachelorette, ABC announced Tuesday during Disney’s Upfront presentation.
Vassos was an early frontrunner during Gerry Turner’s season of The Golden Bachelor. She unfortunately had to voluntarily leave the show during Week 3 due to a family emergency. During the Women Tell All, Vassos admitted that she felt there was some unfinished business between her and Turner. At times, she said it was hard not to wonder what may have happened if she’d stayed.
ABC also announced that The Golden Bachelorette, which debuts this fall, will air on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Et/Pt before new episodes of Abbott Elementary.
Related: Bob Iger Returns To Upfront Stage For First Time Since 1994 With Pitchman Praise For Disney’s “Creative Excellence” & Jimmy Kimmel’s Roast To Follow
The Golden Bachelorette joins a...
- 5/14/2024
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
When a reliable performer like The Rookie, which has always been on the fall schedule if not delayed by a pandemic or strike, is suddenly not in a network’s starting lineup for the season, fans understandably would be worried.
Magnifying their concerns is the fact that The Rookie is headed into its seventh season, which is when a lot of broadcast series are canceled these days, including two ABC dramas, Station 19 and The Good Doctor, this year.
Meanwhile, Will Trent, which launched in midseason two years ago, had its first chance to get on the ABC fall schedule but didn’t get it.
Keeping the two dramas on the bench does not signal a lack of confidence in them.
“The opposite,” Disney TV Group President Craig Erwich told Deadline in an interview tied to the Disney upfront presentation.
Related: Bob Iger Returns To Upfront Stage For First Time...
Magnifying their concerns is the fact that The Rookie is headed into its seventh season, which is when a lot of broadcast series are canceled these days, including two ABC dramas, Station 19 and The Good Doctor, this year.
Meanwhile, Will Trent, which launched in midseason two years ago, had its first chance to get on the ABC fall schedule but didn’t get it.
Keeping the two dramas on the bench does not signal a lack of confidence in them.
“The opposite,” Disney TV Group President Craig Erwich told Deadline in an interview tied to the Disney upfront presentation.
Related: Bob Iger Returns To Upfront Stage For First Time...
- 5/14/2024
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
“I am deeply optimistic about our company, and in a world that is so in need of entertainment is a true privilege,” said Disney boss Bob Iger today in a rare appearance on stage at the start of the media giant’s upfront presentation in New York City. “To run a company that is the embodiment of creative excellence, of great and bold storytelling, of quality, and of innovation.”
“Today we’re going to share with you the incredible projects that we’re working on. And then later Jimmy Kimmel will be out to tear them all apart. I think he’ll probably be tearing me apart too.”
As he noted from the get-go, this is the first time Iger has been in front of advertisers and other clients on an upfront stage since he ran ABC Entertainment back in the early days of Bill Clinton’s presidency.
Related: Marvel...
“Today we’re going to share with you the incredible projects that we’re working on. And then later Jimmy Kimmel will be out to tear them all apart. I think he’ll probably be tearing me apart too.”
As he noted from the get-go, this is the first time Iger has been in front of advertisers and other clients on an upfront stage since he ran ABC Entertainment back in the early days of Bill Clinton’s presidency.
Related: Marvel...
- 5/14/2024
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
The arrival of George Lucas’ Star Wars in theaters was a major turning point in Hollywood cinema as it not only changed the game in pop culture, but also created a whole jargon of concepts that would later become synonymous with the franchise.
George Lucas’ Star Wars
Take, for example, the word “force” – an ordinary term that has changed its meaning since the release of the Star Wars movies. Lucas thought this was a cool term to incorporate into the films; however, one of his colleagues thought otherwise.
Brian De Palma Mocked ‘The Force’ In George Lucas’ Star Wars
During a podcast interview via Light the Fuse, filmmaker Brian de Palma revealed he used to mock George Lucas for concocting the term “force” to denote the spiritual power in the Star Wars saga.
“I just thought the idea of The Force, you know – ‘The Force’, I would say, and I kept repeating it,...
George Lucas’ Star Wars
Take, for example, the word “force” – an ordinary term that has changed its meaning since the release of the Star Wars movies. Lucas thought this was a cool term to incorporate into the films; however, one of his colleagues thought otherwise.
Brian De Palma Mocked ‘The Force’ In George Lucas’ Star Wars
During a podcast interview via Light the Fuse, filmmaker Brian de Palma revealed he used to mock George Lucas for concocting the term “force” to denote the spiritual power in the Star Wars saga.
“I just thought the idea of The Force, you know – ‘The Force’, I would say, and I kept repeating it,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Ariane Cruz
- FandomWire
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