Dan Rather Says Bari Weiss Hire And Skydance-Paramount Merger Mark “A Dark Day In The Halls Of CBS News”

Exciting news for horror fans as New Line has announced the release date for Zazie Beetz's upcoming film 'They Will Kill You,' set to hit theaters on March 27, 2026. This film, produced by Skydance and the Muschietti brothers' Nocturna label, promises to bring fresh thrills to the genre. The collaboration between these notable production houses and the rising star Beetz highlights the growing interest in innovative horror storytelling, making this a highly anticipated release.

David Ellison, CEO of Paramount, recently clarified his role in the company amidst discussions about his father's financial support in major deals, including the $8-billion takeover of Paramount. This insight is significant as it highlights the dynamic between family influence and corporate leadership, especially in high-stakes negotiations like those involving Warner Bros. Discovery.

Paramount has appointed Jay Askinasi, previously the ad sales chief at Roku, as its new Chief Revenue Officer. This move comes as part of a strategic executive reshuffle following Paramount's merger with Skydance. Askinasi's experience in the advertising sector is expected to bolster Paramount's revenue strategies, making this a significant step for the company as it navigates the evolving media landscape.

David Ellison, the CEO of Paramount Skydance, recently addressed the media at the Bloomberg Screentime conference in Los Angeles, where he refrained from confirming any intentions to bid for Warner Bros. Discovery. However, he did highlight that there are numerous actionable mergers and acquisitions possibilities available. This statement is significant as it indicates the ongoing interest and potential shifts in the entertainment industry, which could reshape the competitive landscape.

In today's episode, Variety's Tatiana Siegel dives into Bari Weiss's new role as editor-in-chief at CBS News, highlighting its significance for the network's future. Additionally, longtime correspondent Nick Vivarelli shares insights on the vibrant media landscape at the Rome MIA Market. This discussion is crucial as it sheds light on the evolving dynamics of media leadership and international markets, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the industry.

Bryan Bertino's latest horror film, Vicious, is generating buzz with its recent premiere at Fantastic Fest 2025 and a sneak peek featurette released by Paramount+. This film promises to deliver a thrilling experience as it explores the dark and demanding nature of its central box. With Bertino's reputation for crafting engaging horror narratives, fans are eager to see how this film unfolds when it streams on Paramount+ starting tomorrow. It's an exciting time for horror enthusiasts as they anticipate another chilling tale from a talented filmmaker.

The documentary 'Ozzy: No Escape From Now' offers a poignant look at Ozzy Osbourne's struggles with chronic pain and depression as he faces retirement. While it may resonate with metal fans, it primarily speaks to caregivers and those who understand the toll of such health issues. This film matters because it sheds light on the often-hidden battles faced by artists, reminding us of their humanity beyond the stage.

David Ellison's bid for Warner Bros is gaining momentum as new contracts for key executives Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy have been finalized. This development is significant as it indicates a strong future for Warner Bros under Ellison's potential leadership, especially after a successful year at the box office. The ongoing changes suggest a strategic shift in the entertainment landscape, which could lead to exciting new projects and collaborations.

Paramount has just dropped a hilarious first look teaser for 'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Chrome Alone 2', a fun animated short that will be shown before 'The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants' this December. This nostalgic return to the classic Turtles vibe is sure to delight fans as they eagerly await the next TMNT feature film, 'Mutant Mayhem', set for 2027. It's a great time to be a Turtles fan!

Jessica Biel is set to star in and executive produce 'The Ambler Warning,' a new spy thriller based on Robert Ludlum's bestseller. This project marks the first collaboration between Biel's production company, Iron Ocean, and Paramount Television Studios, which recently revived its television division. This partnership is significant as it highlights the growing trend of established actors taking on dual roles in production, potentially leading to more creative control and unique storytelling in the industry.

Great news for fans of 'Dexter: Resurrection'! The popular sequel series featuring Michael C. Hall as the iconic serial killer has been renewed for a second season on Paramount+. Hall expressed his gratitude to fans in a heartfelt YouTube video, assuring them that more thrilling content is on the way as the writers' room begins to assemble. This renewal not only highlights the show's success but also promises to deliver more of the suspense and drama that viewers love.

Jeremy Strong is set to star in and executive produce '9/12,' a new limited series on Paramount+ that highlights the significant legal battle faced by 9/11 first responders. This series is important as it sheds light on the relentless fight for justice and nearly $1 billion in compensation for those who risked their lives during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. By focusing on this landmark case, the show aims to honor the sacrifices of these heroes and raise awareness about their ongoing struggles.

Wagner Moura, the star of the Oscar contender 'The Secret Agent,' expressed his fears about artificial intelligence at the London Film Festival. He highlighted concerns over how AI might distort the truth, stating that it terrifies him to think that the reality we know could be altered. Moura's comments resonate in today's tech-driven world, where the implications of AI on truth and authenticity are increasingly relevant, making his perspective crucial as we navigate these changes.

Rising star Solly McLeod, known for his role in the miniseries 'Tom Jones', has joined the cast of the upcoming film 'Anxious People', which is currently being filmed in London. This project, directed by Marc Forster, also features a stellar lineup including Angelina Jolie and Jason Segel. McLeod's addition to the cast highlights his growing prominence in the film industry, making this an exciting development for fans and followers of his career.

The genre feature 'Lucid' has secured an international sales deal and will be distributed in Canada, marking a significant milestone ahead of its premiere at the Sitges Film Festival in Spain. Competing for the Noves Visions Award, this film, directed by Deanna Milligan and Ramsey Fendall, is generating buzz in the horror community, especially with its upcoming U.S. premiere at the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival. This is exciting news for fans and filmmakers alike, as it highlights the growing interest in innovative horror films.

Charlie Hunnam revealed that he maintained the creepy voice of Ed Gein throughout the filming of 'Monster,' even off-camera, which he later admitted might have been annoying to those around him. This quirky dedication to his role showcases the lengths actors go to immerse themselves in their characters, but it also raises questions about the impact of such methods on co-stars and crew. While Hunnam's commitment to authenticity is commendable, it highlights the often overlooked challenges faced by those working alongside intensely focused actors.

ACF Investment Bank is making a significant move by establishing a new office in Germany and appointing industry veteran Bernd Wendeln as the Head of M&A for Europe. This expansion reflects the growing momentum in the international M&A market, indicating that ACF is poised to enhance its presence across the continent. Such developments are crucial as they not only signify confidence in the European market but also suggest potential growth opportunities for businesses looking to engage in mergers and acquisitions.

The latest Market Talks provide valuable insights into the commercialization of AI and the competitive landscape within the technology, media, and telecom sectors. Understanding these trends is crucial for stakeholders as they navigate the rapidly evolving market, ensuring they stay informed about innovations and shifts that could impact their strategies.