In a significant shift for the entertainment industry, the 2025 Academy Awards will be live-streamed on Disney's Hulu alongside its traditional broadcast home on ABC. This move symbolizes the final chapter in the story of linear television as we know it. For years, major events like sports games and award shows have been tied to pay-TV bundles, but now they are migrating to streaming platforms. By next year, all top broadcasts will be available through standalone streaming services, signaling a complete transformation of how viewers access content. The transition has been gradual, with entertainment programming leading the charge, followed by sports and news. As Hollywood invests billions into streaming, traditional cable channels have become shadows of their former selves. Executives acknowledge this shift, emphasizing the need to adapt while trying to salvage what remains of the pay-TV model.
March 2: A Turning Point for Television
In the heart of early spring, March 2, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the history of television. On this day, one of the last bastions of traditional TV—the Academy Awards—will embrace the streaming revolution. For the first time ever, the Oscars will be streamed live outside the pay-TV ecosystem, available on Disney’s Hulu. This development underscores a broader trend: the dismantling of the pay-TV bundle. In 2024, 14 out of the top 50 TV broadcasts were exclusive to pay-TV services, primarily football games on Fox and ESPN. However, by 2025, every event on Nielsen’s most-watched list will be accessible via standalone streaming platforms. The migration began years ago with entertainment content, led by Netflix, and has since extended to sports and news. Major networks like Disney, NBCUniversal, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Paramount have pivoted heavily toward streaming, reducing investments in linear TV. Executives recognize that streaming is the future, yet some still aim to preserve elements of the pay-TV bundle.
Disney CEO Bob Iger highlighted this duality, stating that linear networks remain valuable assets while acknowledging the shift towards streaming. Similarly, Fox CEO Lachlan Murdoch emphasized support for traditional bundles while targeting cord-cutters and cord-nevers with new streaming offerings. The demise of the Venu sports bundle further accelerated this change, prompting providers like DirecTV and Comcast to offer skinnier packages focused on sports and news. Despite these efforts, the writing is on the wall: pay-TV exclusivity is fading fast. Events like the MTV Video Music Awards and WWE Smackdown may soon follow the Oscars’ lead, joining the streaming wave. Executives at “SpinCo,” Comcast’s soon-to-be-independent cable channels, are already planning their exit strategies. The media landscape has undergone a seismic shift, moving from a world where every household paid for a channel bundle to one where content seeks new platforms to thrive.
From a journalistic perspective, this transition highlights the relentless march of technology and consumer preferences. It’s a reminder that industries must evolve or risk obsolescence. The Oscars’ move to streaming not only reflects changing viewer habits but also ensures the event remains culturally relevant. As more content breaks free from traditional bundles, the challenge for remaining linear networks will be finding innovative ways to stay competitive. This era marks the end of an old order and the beginning of a new one, driven by flexibility and accessibility.
A beloved rock ensemble has unveiled plans for an eagerly anticipated world tour. The Lumineers will embark on their "Automatic" tour, making a stop at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul on July 25th. Known for fusing alternative rock, Americana, and compelling narratives into their dynamic live performances, the band boasts an impressive record of success, including 24 chart-topping hits across various formats, over 1.5 million album sales, and a staggering 22 million monthly listeners on Spotify. This tour supports their fifth studio album, also titled "Automatic," set to release soon. Joining them on this musical journey are acclaimed acts such as Young the Giant, St. Vincent, and The Night Sweats. Tickets for the concert will be available starting February 21st at 10:00 a.m.
Blending Genres and Crafting Memorable Performances
The Lumineers have established themselves as masters of blending diverse musical elements into unforgettable live shows. Their unique style combines the raw energy of alternative rock with the soulful depth of Americana, creating a distinctive sound that resonates deeply with audiences. Each performance is a testament to their storytelling prowess, where every song feels like a chapter from an unfolding narrative. This ability to connect emotionally with fans has been a cornerstone of their success.
Drawing from a rich catalog of music, The Lumineers have consistently delivered high-energy concerts that captivate and inspire. Their performances are not just about playing songs but crafting experiences. The band's chemistry on stage is palpable, often leading to spontaneous moments that make each show unique. With 24 number-one hits and over 1.5 million albums sold, it's clear that their talent extends beyond just writing great music. Their presence on stage transforms venues into intimate spaces where stories come alive through melody and rhythm.
Exciting Support Acts and Ticket Details
In addition to the headlining act, the "Automatic" tour promises an evening filled with diverse musical talent. Opening for The Lumineers are several notable artists, including Young the Giant, St. Vincent, and The Night Sweats. These acts bring their own unique styles to the stage, ensuring a varied and enriching experience for concertgoers. Each supporting artist complements The Lumineers' sound, creating a cohesive and engaging night of music.
Tickets for the concert go on sale on February 21st at 10:00 a.m. Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare for what promises to be a memorable event. The tour, which kicks off in support of their latest album "Automatic," offers a rare opportunity to witness The Lumineers performing new material alongside fan favorites. With anticipation building, this concert is poised to be a highlight of the summer music season. Don't miss out on experiencing the magic of The Lumineers live in St. Paul.
BendPak Inc. has introduced a novel range of rubber puck adapters and jack pads, collectively known as AutoPucks. This innovative product line is designed to enhance safety and protection for auto service professionals when lifting vehicles such as Corvettes and Tesla electric cars. The new adapters are engineered to provide a secure connection at the OEM-recommended lifting points, ensuring vehicle stability and preventing damage. Each model in the AutoPucks series is tailored for specific vehicle types, offering unparalleled versatility and reliability. Crafted from durable materials, these adapters promise consistent performance over time.
Enhancing Lift Safety with Precision Design
The introduction of AutoPucks addresses a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance: ensuring that lifting equipment is properly aligned with the manufacturer's recommended points. Improper placement can lead to significant damage or even accidents. To mitigate these risks, BendPak has developed three distinct models of AutoPucks, each meticulously designed to cater to different vehicle types. The use of high-strength 95 Shore rubber ensures durability and resistance to wear, making these adapters suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Each set of four lifting pucks comes in a compact carrying case, facilitating easy storage and transportation. The Universal Slotted AutoPucks feature a specially designed groove that securely cradles vehicle pinch welds, providing stability while protecting undercarriage components. This universal design allows for seamless integration with various lifting systems, including standard jacks and frame-engaging lifts. By ensuring precise alignment, these adapters significantly reduce the risk of misalignment and potential damage during lifting operations.
Tailored Solutions for Specific Vehicle Models
Recognizing the unique requirements of different vehicle models, BendPak has developed specialized AutoPucks for Corvettes and Teslas. These models are engineered to align perfectly with the factory jack points of their respective vehicles, ensuring secure and stable lifting. For Corvette owners, the dedicated AutoPucks protect sensitive underbody components while offering hassle-free operation. Similarly, Tesla-specific AutoPucks are designed to meet the precise lifting needs of electric vehicles, providing an additional layer of stability and confidence.
The Corvette AutoPucks come equipped with a locking T-slot stem and a silicone O-ring, which ensures a firm grip on the jack points, preventing slippage or misalignment. This model supports all Corvette variants, including C5, C6, C7, C8, Z06, and ZR1. Meanwhile, the Tesla AutoPucks are specifically engineered to fit Model S, 3, X, and Y. Featuring a similar locking mechanism, they ensure a secure fit at Tesla’s OEM jack points. Both models exemplify BendPak's commitment to delivering reliable and safe lifting solutions for modern vehicles.