‘Last Week Tonight’: John Oliver Explains Why Bari Weiss Taking Over CBS News Is “Especially Alarming,” Says Potential Paramount-Warner Bros. Merger Is “Not Ideal”

The Larry Ellison family is in discussions to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, aiming to strengthen Paramount, which is currently the smallest among major media companies. However, negotiations are ongoing, and a price has yet to be agreed upon. This potential acquisition is significant as it could reshape the competitive landscape of the media industry, impacting content creation and distribution.

Exciting news for Star Trek fans! At New York Comic-Con, Paramount+ revealed the first trailer for 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy,' set to stream in January 2026. This new series takes us to the 32nd century, expanding the Star Trek universe introduced in 'Star Trek: Discovery.' With Paul Giamatti starring as Nus Braka, the show promises to deliver thrilling adventures and fresh characters, making it a must-watch for both longtime fans and newcomers.

The excitement is building for 'Mortal Kombat II,' set to hit theaters next summer. Warner Bros. recently shared a behind-the-scenes featurette at New York Comic-Con, giving fans a glimpse into the making of this highly anticipated sequel. Following the success of the 2021 film, this installment promises to deliver even more thrilling martial arts action, featuring beloved characters and the return of fan-favorite Johnny Cage. This film matters not just for its entertainment value but also for its connection to a beloved video game franchise that has captivated audiences for decades.

The relationship between streamers and TV networks is evolving positively, moving away from past conflicts like the 2007 lawsuit by Paramount against YouTube. This shift is significant as it indicates a growing collaboration in the media landscape, allowing both traditional broadcasters and online platforms to coexist and thrive together. As they learn to share audiences and resources, viewers can expect more diverse and innovative content, benefiting everyone involved.

Park Circus is making a significant move by expanding its operations into France, having secured the distribution rights for Warner Bros.' classic film library. This expansion is not only a milestone for the company but also a great opportunity for French audiences to enjoy timeless films. CEO Doug Davis shared this exciting news ahead of the International Classic Film Market in Lyon, highlighting the importance of this new territory for their business. It’s a win-win situation, as classic films find new life and appreciation in a fresh market.

Exciting news for fans of the Mortal Kombat franchise! New Line is already planning a third installment, even before the release of Mortal Kombat II. Jeremy Slater, who wrote and produced the sequel, is set to return as the screenwriter. This announcement was made at New York Comic-Con, signaling a strong commitment to expanding the beloved series. With the anticipation building, this could mean more thrilling action and storytelling for fans to enjoy.

Exciting news for Star Trek fans as 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' has officially set its premiere date for January 15, 2026, on Paramount+. This new series will kick off with two episodes, followed by weekly releases until March 12. The announcement was made during the 'Star Trek' Universe panel at New York Comic-Con, where it was also revealed that Stephen Colbert will join the series. This development not only expands the Star Trek universe but also keeps fans engaged with fresh content.

Stephen Colbert is set to voice a character in the upcoming 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' series, as he announced during a virtual appearance at New York Comic Con. This news comes as Colbert's late-night show is wrapping up in May, making it an exciting transition for fans of both Colbert and the Star Trek franchise. The premiere date for the series on Paramount+ has also been set, generating buzz among Trekkies and showcasing Colbert's continued involvement in popular culture.

At New York Comic Con, Paramount+ excited fans with a sneak peek of Season 4 of 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.' The clip features Captain Christopher Pike, played by Anson Mount, navigating the USS Enterprise through a fierce storm. This reveal is significant as it builds anticipation for the upcoming season, showcasing the show's commitment to thrilling storytelling and character development, which keeps the Star Trek legacy alive.

Toys 'R' Us Studios is making waves by embracing the unconventional pairing of their family-friendly brand with the R-rated thriller 'Roofman.' This film, based on a true story about a prison escapee hiding in a big-box store, has caught the attention of major players like Paramount and Channing Tatum. The bold marketing strategy, which some might call a 'harassment campaign,' showcases Toys 'R' Us's innovative approach to engaging audiences and highlights the potential for cross-genre storytelling in cinema.

The popular series 'Yellowjackets' is set to conclude with its fourth season, as confirmed by Variety. Originally premiering in 2021, the show has garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. The third season is scheduled to air from February to April 2025, with the fourth season expected to debut in 2026. This news is significant for fans who have followed the intense and thrilling storyline, as they prepare for the series' final chapter.

Bari Weiss, the new editor in chief of CBS News, has reached out to staff with a memo asking for insights on their work and suggestions for improvement. This initiative aims to foster communication and innovation within the newsroom. Meanwhile, the Writers Guild of America East has advised its members not to respond to Weiss's inquiries until they receive further clarification. This situation highlights the ongoing dynamics within media organizations as they navigate leadership changes and staff engagement.

In a significant development, Israeli hostage David Cunio is set to be released along with 19 others as part of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. This news comes as former President Trump arrives in Israel, drawing attention to the ongoing situation. Cunio, who was kidnapped during the Hamas attacks, has been highlighted in the documentary 'A Letter To David.' His release, alongside his brother Ariel, brings hope to families affected by the conflict and underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts in the region.

Stanley Tucci is set to lead the cast of 'Masterplan,' an exciting international heist movie directed by Thomas Vincent, known for 'Reacher.' This film, which also stars Simona Tabasco and Victor Belmondo, is significant as it marks Prime Video's first original production in French and Italian. Filming has just begun in picturesque locations across France and Italy, promising a thrilling cinematic experience that showcases the talents of its star-studded cast.

Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, a two-time Academy Award winner, has joined as executive producer for the short film 'Don't Be Late, Myra,' directed by Afia Nathaniel. This collaboration is significant as the film has already qualified for the Oscars after a successful festival run, highlighting the importance of Pakistani narratives in cinema. Obaid-Chinoy's involvement is expected to elevate the film's visibility as it competes for recognition at the 98th Academy Awards.

A biopic about the life of Nobel Prize-winning philosopher Bertrand Russell is in the works, with Amanda Curdt-Christiansen set to write the script. This film is significant as it will be the first theatrical portrayal of Russell, who is celebrated for his contributions to humanitarian ideals and freedom of thought. His life, which spanned nearly a century, offers a rich narrative that can inspire and educate audiences about the importance of philosophy in understanding our world.

ITV Studios is making waves at MIPCOM Cannes with a series of exciting format deals, including the Spanish launch of 'A Party to Die For' and the fiftieth territory for 'Come Dine With Me'. The revival of the Fox Reality show 'Solitary' adds to their impressive catalog. This expansion not only showcases ITV's growing influence in the global market but also highlights the increasing demand for diverse reality formats, making it a significant moment for the company and its partners.

Channel 4 is set to release a documentary titled 'Hitler’s DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator,' which will analyze a verified sample of Adolf Hitler's DNA. Produced by Blink Films, this documentary promises to deliver surprising results and is expected to spark controversy due to its sensitive subject matter. The exploration of Hitler's genetic material could provide insights into historical narratives and the implications of genetic research on historical figures, making it a significant topic for both history enthusiasts and the general public.