LISTEN: Mattel’s Robbie Brenner, Banijay’s Marco Bassetti and All the Buzz From the Mipcom Content Market

Banijay Entertainment is making waves by launching a professional soccer team in the Netherlands, named FC Failliet/Finesse (FCF), in collaboration with popular social media creators like Ilias Vietto, Aimane Charbon, and Kleine John. This initiative not only diversifies Banijay's portfolio but also brings a fresh approach to sports entertainment, merging traditional soccer with the influence of digital creators. It's an exciting development for fans and a unique opportunity for the creators to engage with their audience in a new way.

Banijay Mexico & U.S. Hispanic is excited to announce a new travel docu series titled 'Tres Hinchapelotas' as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Featuring popular Latino figures like Jaime Camil, Marcelo Tinelli, and Jorge Enrique, the series aims to capture the spirit of the tournament through the eyes of passionate fans. This initiative not only highlights the cultural significance of the World Cup but also showcases the vibrant Latino community's enthusiasm for soccer, making it a must-watch for fans everywhere.

The U.K. has officially submitted 'My Father’s Shadow' as its entry for the best international feature at the 98th Academy Awards. This film marks the feature debut of Akinola Davies Jr. and showcases a blend of Yoruba, Naija-Pidgin, and English languages. Having premiered at Cannes' Un Certain Regard competition earlier this year, this submission highlights the growing recognition of diverse storytelling in cinema and could pave the way for more international films to gain visibility on prestigious platforms.

Banijay and YouTube are teaming up to launch an Entertainment Creators Lab in France, aiming to harness the growing creator economy. This initiative, announced by Banijay's Marco Bassetti at Mipcom, will feature a dedicated channel called Banijay Creators Studio, designed to connect creators with industry professionals. This partnership is significant as it not only supports content creators but also enhances the diversity of entertainment formats available, fostering innovation in the industry.

This weekend's box office results were disappointing, with new releases like 'Tron: Ares,' 'Roofman,' and 'Kiss of the Spider Woman' failing to attract audiences. This matters because it highlights ongoing challenges in the film industry, especially as the annual Mipcom content market kicks off in Cannes, where industry insiders are buzzing about the future of media and entertainment.

Banijay Entertainment is making waves by announcing the launch of 10 new pilot projects at Mipcom, as shared by CEO Marco Bassetti. This initiative taps into the creator economy in France and the U.K., leveraging previously unused intellectual property from their catalog. Bassetti views this as a valuable opportunity to experiment and potentially expand their offerings, which could reshape the entertainment landscape and provide fresh content for audiences.

A new live-action series inspired by the beloved Magic 8 Ball is being developed by renowned filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan and Emmy-winning producer Brad Falchuk, in collaboration with Mattel. This project promises to bring a fresh twist to the iconic toy, tapping into Shyamalan's knack for supernatural storytelling. Fans of both the franchise and the creators are excited about the potential for a unique blend of mystery and entertainment, making it a noteworthy addition to the television landscape.

Banijay's recent acquisition of the Netherlands-based creator label Werktitel marks a significant move in the evolving creator economy. Announced at MIPCOM in Cannes, this deal highlights the growing importance of creators in the media landscape, as Banijay aims to enhance its portfolio and adapt to changing market dynamics. This acquisition not only strengthens Banijay's position but also reflects a broader trend where traditional media companies are increasingly investing in creator-driven content.

Donnie Wahlberg is back as Danny Reagan in the new offshoot 'Boston Blue,' which premiered at Cannes, kicking off the MIPCOM event. The excitement doesn't stop there, as Wahlberg dreams of a crossover movie with 'Blue Bloods.' This news is significant as it highlights the growing interest in expanding beloved TV universes, potentially attracting more fans and creating new storytelling opportunities.

Donnie Wahlberg and Sonequa Martin-Green are making waves at the Cannes premiere of 'Boston Blue,' the highly anticipated offshoot of the beloved series 'Blue Bloods.' With 'Blue Bloods' having captivated audiences for 14 seasons, expectations are high for this new chapter. The premiere not only highlights the show's legacy but also showcases the talent of its stars, making it a significant moment in television history.

Radial Entertainment Group is facing layoffs following the merger of Shout Studios and FilmRise. This decision is part of a broader effort to streamline operations and eliminate redundancies, which the company believes is necessary for long-term growth. While such measures can be crucial for a company's future, they also highlight the challenges and human impact of corporate restructuring, making it a significant development in the entertainment industry.

NBC has just unveiled the trailer for 'Stumble,' a new comedy series featuring Jenn Lyon as a cheerleading coach facing tough challenges. Set in the competitive world of junior college cheerleading, this mockumentary promises to deliver laughs while highlighting the intense stakes involved. It's an exciting addition to NBC's lineup, showcasing the underdog spirit and the unique culture of cheerleading, making it a must-watch for fans of comedy and sports alike.

T.J. Holmes and Amy Robach, former co-hosts of GMA3, have announced their engagement nearly three years after their relationship began. This news is significant as it highlights a personal milestone for the couple, who have captured public interest since their romance became known. Their journey from colleagues to partners showcases the evolving nature of relationships in the spotlight, making it a heartwarming story for fans.

Exciting news for food lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike! The California Coastal Commission has given the green light for a new restaurant designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry and run by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck at the Gladstones site. This new venue, which will be slightly smaller than the previous Gladstones, promises to bring a fresh dining experience to the coast, blending innovative design with culinary excellence. This development not only revitalizes a historic location but also enhances the local dining scene, making it a significant step forward for the community.

Prince Harry's recent request for state-sponsored security is likely to create further tension between him and his father, King Charles III. This move raises concerns about the possibility of reconciliation within the royal family, as it suggests ongoing discord and differing priorities. The implications of this request could affect public perception of both Harry and Charles, making it a significant moment in their strained relationship.

Steve and Terri Irwin's love story is a beautiful testament to their bond, showcasing how their relationship flourished alongside their shared passion for wildlife conservation. Their journey together not only highlights their personal connection but also emphasizes the impact they made in raising awareness about environmental issues. This story matters because it reminds us of the power of love and partnership in making a difference in the world.