UTA Taps Apple And Disney Vet Judy Schwab As Chief People Officer

AI startup Character.AI has recently taken down Disney characters from its chatbot platform following a cease-and-desist letter from Disney. This move highlights the ongoing tensions between tech companies and entertainment giants over intellectual property rights. The removal of beloved characters could impact user engagement and the platform's appeal, raising questions about the future of AI in creative spaces.

Major talent agencies in New York and Los Angeles, including CAA, WME, and UTA, have received a letter urging them and their clients to boycott the Surrey Hotel in NYC due to an ongoing labor dispute. This situation highlights the growing tensions between labor unions and businesses, emphasizing the need for fair treatment of workers. The call for a boycott reflects a significant stance from the entertainment industry, showcasing solidarity with the affected workers and raising awareness about labor rights.

Judy Schwab, a seasoned HR professional with experience at Disney and Apple, has been appointed as the Chief People Officer at UTA. This is significant because her proven ability to build high-performing teams and foster a positive workplace culture is expected to enhance UTA's organizational effectiveness. CEO David Kramer emphasized that her leadership and expertise will be crucial as the company continues to grow and evolve.

The return of 'High Potential' for its second season has been a remarkable success, with the premiere episode attracting 12 million viewers across various platforms within just seven days. This impressive figure represents a 28% increase compared to last year's premiere, showcasing the show's growing popularity and the effectiveness of its multi-platform strategy. Such growth is significant for ABC and its streaming services, indicating a strong viewer engagement and potential for future seasons.

FuboTV shareholders have given the green light for a merger with Hulu + Live TV, creating a larger entity under Disney's control. This merger is significant as it combines FuboTV's sports-focused streaming with Hulu's extensive content library, potentially enhancing viewer options and market competitiveness. However, the deal still awaits approval from government regulators, which adds an element of anticipation to the future of this collaboration.

'Dancing with the Stars' is back with its exciting 34th season, and fans are eager to catch Week 3's episode airing on September 30. This week promises a thrilling theme, and viewers can easily tune in through platforms like Hulu and Disney+. It's a great opportunity for fans to enjoy the show and see their favorite celebrities showcase their dancing skills.

At the Iberseries & Platino Industria conference, Sofía Fábregas, the VP of Original Production at Disney+ Spain, discussed the upcoming international rebranding of Star to Hulu. She emphasized the importance of respecting local theatrical windows, highlighting the need for a balanced approach in the streaming landscape. This transition is significant as it reflects the evolving strategies of major streaming platforms and their commitment to local content, which could impact how audiences engage with films and series in Spain.

Alex Scott, known for her role on BBC's Football Focus, is set to host Disney's coverage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League starting next month. This move is significant as it highlights the growing investment in women's sports media, with ESPN producing all 75 live matches and offering commentary in various languages. This initiative not only enhances visibility for women's football but also reflects a broader trend towards inclusivity in sports broadcasting.

The U.K. and Ireland box office is buzzing with excitement as Warner Bros.' 'One Battle After Another' debuted at No. 1, raking in £2.4 million. Not to be outdone, Disney's 'Hamilton (10th Anniversary)' made a strong entrance at No. 2, also earning $2.4 million. This surge in box office numbers highlights the growing interest in theatrical releases, especially as audiences are eager to experience live performances again. It's a promising sign for the film industry as it continues to recover.

Chad Powers, the new sitcom on Disney+, showcases Glen Powell in a standout performance that blends humor and heart. While it may draw comparisons to the beloved Ted Lasso, Powell's unique charm and the show's quirky premise make it a delightful watch. This series not only entertains but also resonates emotionally, proving that even a seemingly familiar concept can be transformed into something fresh and engaging. It's a reminder of the power of comedy to connect with audiences in meaningful ways.

The ongoing fallout from Jimmy Kimmel's controversial suspension is escalating, with irate shareholders demanding answers from Disney. As the clock ticks down to a Tuesday deadline for crucial documents, the media giant, led by Bob Iger, faces the threat of a courtroom showdown. Kimmel, who returned to ABC's airwaves on September 23, has been under scrutiny, and the lack of transparency could have significant implications for Disney's reputation and shareholder trust.

Elizabeth Olsen is back as the Scarlet Witch in the animated series 'Marvel Zombies,' where she lends her voice to the character. Although she admits she can't recall much about the recording process, this return is exciting for fans who have been eagerly awaiting her portrayal. The series, a spinoff of 'What If...?,' explores a unique zombie-infested universe, adding a fresh twist to the Marvel franchise. Olsen's involvement alongside other Marvel veterans highlights the ongoing popularity and expansion of the Marvel universe, making it a significant moment for fans.

BBC Two and BBC iPlayer are set to honor the legendary David Bowie with a new documentary titled 'Bowie in Berlin,' which will air in the fall of next year. This 90-minute film celebrates the 50th anniversary of Bowie's move to Berlin, a pivotal moment in his career that shaped his music and artistry. Executive produced by Louis Theroux and directed by Francis Whately, the documentary promises to provide fans with an insightful look into this transformative period of Bowie's life, making it a must-watch for music lovers.

The BBC is set to launch its exciting new high school drama 'Crookhaven,' based on JJ Arcanjo's novel, with first-look images now available. This eight-part series promises to bring a fresh take on the genre and is scheduled to premiere early next year. The anticipation is building as BBC Studios prepares to showcase the series at MIP Junior and MIPCOM in October, highlighting its commitment to innovative children's programming.

Alex Honnold, the renowned free solo climber, is gearing up for an exhilarating live event where he will scale the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper in Taiwan. This daring feat will be broadcast on Netflix in a special titled 'Skyscraper Live.' Honnold's previous climbs have captivated audiences worldwide, and this event promises to be another thrilling showcase of his extraordinary skills. It matters because it not only highlights Honnold's incredible talent but also brings attention to the breathtaking architecture of Taipei, inspiring both climbers and fans alike.

Saturday Night Live is gearing up for an exciting Season 51 after a landmark 50th season. The beloved NBC sketch comedy show will introduce five new cast members, bringing fresh energy to the iconic series. With the first three episodes already featuring a lineup of hosts and musical guests, fans can look forward to a mix of familiar faces and new talent. This season promises to keep the laughter coming and engage audiences with its unique blend of humor and current events.

Fans are buzzing about a possible hint dropped by Travis Kelce regarding a new lyric from Taylor Swift's upcoming album. During the Life of a Showgirl Spotify experience in New York City, attendees believe they caught a glimpse of what might be a sneak peek into Swift's latest work. This speculation adds excitement to both Kelce's and Swift's fanbases, as they eagerly await the album's release and any potential collaborations or connections between the two stars.

Walt Disney has taken a strong stance against Character.AI by sending a cease-and-desist letter, claiming that the platform is infringing on its copyrighted characters. This move highlights the ongoing battle over intellectual property rights in the digital age, as studios like Disney seek to protect their iconic characters from unauthorized use. The situation raises important questions about creativity and originality in AI-generated content, making it a significant development for both the entertainment industry and technology.