Television
Disney+ to Exclusively Stream 2025 Oscars in France
2024-12-11
Disney+ is set to make a significant mark by exclusively live streaming the 2025 Oscars ceremony in France on March 2nd, 2025. This move comes as a major shift, taking over from the previous linear broadcaster Canal+. Julia Tenret, Director of Disney+ Acquisition and Programming, revealed this deal at a crucial time for the streaming service and the entire Disney Group. As Disney's distribution deal with Canal+ is set to end on December 31st, 2024, this new arrangement holds great importance.

Key Moments and Announcements

In November 2024, Disney announced that from January 1st, 2025, Canal+ customers would no longer have access to their films or be able to watch Disney+ or their television channels with their subscriptions. This change aligns with French theatrical window rules, where viewers will now have to wait 17 months instead of the previous six months after a movie's cinema release before it streams on Disney+. The group is actively considering all options to expand and enhance its platform and content distribution.According to local reports, Disney is also in negotiations with the movie industry to increase its contribution to French movie production. This strategic move aims to secure a more favorable position in the theatrical window rule.The platform, which currently ranks third in SVoD in France with 30 million users, has plans to grow its presence in French TV series. This expansion will further strengthen Disney's foothold in the French entertainment market.

Impact on the Streaming Service and Disney Group

This exclusive streaming deal with the 2025 Oscars ceremony is a major milestone for Disney+. It showcases the company's commitment to providing unique and exclusive content to its French audience. By taking over from Canal+, Disney+ is positioning itself as a leading player in the French streaming market.The end of the distribution deal with Canal+ also forces Disney to reevaluate and expand its distribution channels. This presents an opportunity for the company to explore new partnerships and strategies to reach a wider audience.

Growth Plans for the Platform

Disney's focus on growing its presence in French TV series is a strategic move. By investing in local content, the company can attract more French viewers and build a stronger brand presence. This will not only increase user engagement but also drive revenue growth.In addition to expanding in TV series, Disney is also considering various options to grow its platform and content distribution. This could include partnerships with other media companies, the acquisition of local content providers, or the development of original French shows.The company's efforts to increase its contribution to French movie production are also crucial. By supporting local filmmakers, Disney can gain access to high-quality content and build stronger relationships with the French movie industry.
Cal State LA Gets Two Golden Globe Foundation Grants for TV, Film & Journalism
2024-12-11
The Golden Globe Foundation has long been a pillar of support for Cal State LA. Last week, two significant grants were announced, bolstering the university's television, film, and journalism programs. These grants are set to make a profound difference in the lives of students and the overall landscape of these departments.

Empowering Creativity at Cal State LA with Golden Globe Support

Television, Film, and Media Fund

Cal State LA is set to receive a $30,000 grant for its Television, Film, and Media Fund. This funding will open up a world of opportunities for students. It will enable them to participate in internships, produce films, and organize film festivals. The equipment and software provided will enhance their creative capabilities and give them a competitive edge in the industry. For instance, students can now use high-quality cameras and editing software to bring their visions to life. This grant is not just about money; it's about nurturing the next generation of filmmakers.Moreover, the Television, Film, and Media Fund will also support scholarships, making education accessible to a wider range of students. It has already had a significant impact on individual students, changing their lives and opening doors to a future in the entertainment industry.

Diversity in Journalism Fund

The $10,000 grant for the Diversity in Journalism Fund is another crucial aspect of the Golden Globe Foundation's support. In an industry that often lacks diversity, this fund aims to address this issue. It will provide resources and opportunities for underrepresented students to pursue a career in journalism.Through this fund, Cal State LA's journalism program can offer more scholarships and mentorship programs. Students will have access to top journalists who can guide them and share their experiences. This will not only help these students advance their careers but also contribute to a more diverse and inclusive media landscape.In recent years, Cal State LA's journalism students have been honored with over two dozen awards and honors. This is a testament to the quality of education and the support provided by the Golden Globe Foundation.

Transformative Support for Students

For more than two decades, the Golden Globe Foundation has been offering transformative support to Cal State LA's diverse, low-income students. Scholarships have played a vital role in enabling these students to pursue their dreams. Equipment grants have given them the tools they need to create and express themselves.During the pandemic, emergency grants provided much-needed financial assistance. This year's grant monies will continue to support film festivals and student works, as well as internships in Southern California newsrooms. These internships give student journalists valuable experience and help them build their portfolios.The Department of TVFM at Cal State LA offers a comprehensive range of programs, including a Bachelor of Arts in Television, Film and Media Studies, a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, a Master of Arts in Television, Film and Media Studies, and a Master of Fine Arts in Television, Film and Theatre.The MFA program brings together the three creative arms of the entertainment industry—content creation, writing, and acting—in cohorts. This collaborative approach allows students to develop a well-rounded skill set and prepares them for the challenges of the industry.Hollywood's top producers, directors, screenwriters, and actors often serve as university guest speakers and mentors. This exposure gives students a unique opportunity to learn from the best in the business and gain valuable insights.Cal State LA's journalism program, part of the Department of TVFM, trains students who have been traditionally underrepresented in newsrooms. Through its classes, student media outlets, and collaborations with professional newsrooms, students gain practical experience and develop the skills needed to succeed in the field.Since 1989, the Golden Globe Foundation (and its predecessor Hollywood Foreign Press Association) has donated more than $55 million to entertainment-related nonprofit organizations, academic programs, and organizations protecting press freedom. It has also funded the restoration of 138 classic films, preserving the history of the entertainment industry.Funding for the foundation's philanthropy is made possible from revenue generated by licensing fees from the Golden Globe® Awards. This ensures that the foundation can continue to make a positive impact on education and the arts.
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Donald Trump's Cabinet Picks: MTV & Fox News Stars Galore
2024-12-11
Trump's second-term picks have been a significant focus, with various individuals selected from different fields and with connections to Fox News. These picks have drawn both attention and criticism, shaping the composition of his cabinet.

Unraveling Trump's Cabinet Choices and Their Fox News Links

Fox News and Trump's Second-Term Picks

Fox News has played a prominent role in shaping Trump's cabinet selections. The president-elect chose Janette Nesheiwat, a former medical contributor on the network, as his surgeon general. This shows the influence of Fox News in medical and healthcare-related positions.Another notable pick is Pam Bondi, a frequent guest on the network who faced criticism for hosting a show while in office. Her nomination as US attorney general highlights the network's reach and its impact on legal and law enforcement matters.Kimberly Guilfoyle also made an appearance in Trump's cabinet selections. She is a former Fox News personality and was tapped for the US ambassador to Greece. This demonstrates the continued association between Trump and Fox News personalities in diplomatic roles.

Transportation Secretary and Reality TV Star

For the transportation secretary position, Trump nominated Sean Duffy. He gained fame on MTV's The Real World: Boston in the late 1990s. While on the show, Duffy stood out for his conservative views and his interactions with the cast. His selection shows how Trump looks beyond traditional political backgrounds and considers individuals with diverse experiences.During his time on the show, Duffy engaged in controversial discussions, including accusations of racism. This aspect of his past has added another layer to his cabinet appointment and has drawn both support and criticism.

Popular Celebrity Doctor and Medical Controversies

Popular celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz has been tapped to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. With no government experience, Oz drew attention from his appearances on Oprah Winfrey's television and his own show, The Dr. Oz Show.However, Oz has also faced criticism for unsubstantiated medical claims made on his daytime show. These claims include topics such as astrology's impact on health, questionable weight-loss therapies, and unproven supplements and vitamins. His appointment has raised questions about the role of celebrity in medical leadership and the need for evidence-based practices.An episode on discredited practices aimed at changing someone's sexual orientation drew fire from LGBTQ rights groups, further highlighting the challenges and controversies surrounding Oz's appointment.

Former NFL Player and HUD Secretary

Scott Turner, a former NFL player and veteran of Trump's first term, was selected to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Turner played nine seasons in the NFL before serving in the Texas House of Representatives. His background in sports and politics brings a unique perspective to the role.Trump's selection of Turner shows his willingness to consider individuals from different walks of life and use their experiences to shape government departments.

Wrestling Executive and Cabinet Member

Linda McMahon, the onetime CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, was appointed to lead the Department of Education. In the wrestling ring, McMahon was involved in outlandish and eye-popping scripted plotlines.Her character's storylines, including a comatose phase and a raucous brawl with her husband, add an interesting dimension to her cabinet appointment. Trump's own history with wrestling, including the "Battle of the Billionaires" storyline, further connects these two worlds.Recently, a clip of McMahon being bodyslammed by wrestling great Glenn Jacobs went viral, adding another layer of entertainment to her role."Donald Trump surrounds himself with a diverse group of individuals who bring unique skills and backgrounds to his cabinet. These picks reflect his approach to governance and his ability to tap into different sectors," Loge said.
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