Smithsonian Channel Likely To Get Axed If The Possible Merger Between Paramount Global And Warner Bros. Discovery Moves Forward

The Smithsonian Channel is a factual based brand operated by Paramount Global through MTV Entertainment Group. It offers video content inspired by the Smithsonian Institution's museums, research facilities and magazines.

Serving as a competitor to Disney's National Geographic and a majority of factual based channels operated by Warner Bros Discovery. It was home to content like Ice Airport Alaska, The Exhibit: Finding the Next Great Artist, Damian Lewis: Spy Wars and Aerial America.

It used to operate various linear channels internationally and since December 2022 is only viewable on Paramount+ in these regions. As it has been outlined by sources that it would garner traction and of course some content would resurface on MTV.

During the week, it was reported that Paramount Global and Warner Bros. Discovery were exploring a potential merger. For now, Warner Bros. Discovery can't look at merging with another entity until April 2024 and talks are said to be in the early stages so it's not known whether they'll go through with the plan.

Most of Paramount's assets are likely to be consolidated if not sold at this point. Unlike Nickelodeon or MTV, The Smithsonian Channel doesn't seem to have much of a future as it had been overshadowed by existing competitors.

Logically, shows like Aerial America and Mayday will just fold under the factual part of Warner Bros. Discovery not that this is new or anything. But they had been licensing content to other broadcasters before and after expanding their linear offering to other countries.

As for the brand in general, The Smithsonian Channel could continue to offer content based on their "museums, research facilities and magazines". Of course, I'd expect quite less of that at this point and they'd probably need to look at partnerships for sustainability.

Warner Bros. Discovery In Talks To Merge With Paramount Global

• The duo discussed ways their companies could complement one another. For example, each company's main streaming service — Paramount+ and Max — could merge to better rival Netflix and Disney+.

• WBD could use its international distribution footprint to boost Paramount's franchises, while Paramount's children's programing assets could be essential to WBD's long-term streaming ambitions.

• CBS News could be combined with CNN to create a global news powerhouse. CBS' crime dramas, such as "NCIS" and "Criminal Minds," could be combined with Investigation Discovery and TruTV.

Paramount Global CEO Bob Bakish and WBD boss David Zaslav sat down on Tuesday at Paramount’s corporate headquarters in New York’s Times Square, a well-place source tells the media, “It was all rather preliminary,” the source said of the talks. Shari Redstone, CEO of Paramount’s controlling shareholder, National Amusements, “is on a bit of a listening tour to see what she might be able to get if she decides to sell the company or part of it,” he added.

Sources has reported in recent days that Redstone, after spending years holding her family’s empire together, had become open to offers for NAI and Paramount assets from suitors including Skydance and RedBird Capital.

Redstone was not in the room with Zaslav and Bakish for the actual meeting, a source noted. Redstone did have a separate conversation with Zaslav this week where the role of broadcast network CBS in any potential future deal was a major topic.

As a broadcast network coupled with 28 owned stations in many markets, CBS is a significant asset but also a legacy one. Given recent talk of Disney possibly parting with ABC and its stations (though the company recently said it has reconsidered) and other movement on the broadcast chess board, the notion of CBS and the stations not following the rest of the Paramount portfolio may be logical. Private equity funds have increasingly looked at local broadcasting as an area of interest.

Wall Street didn’t have any immediate reaction to the initial report of the negotiations by Axios. WBD stock slipped almost 6% during the regular trading day and was basically flat in after-hours trading. Paramount slid 2% and drifted down further after the session.

Warner Discovery would be prevented from entering into a transaction until the April expiration of a two-year lock-up period after the merger of WarnerMedia and Discovery. The lockup was agreed to as part of the Warner-Discovery deal, which was executed via a Reverse Morris Trust, which confers certain tax advantages. Many dealmakers had marked April 8 of next year given the likelihood of WBD wanting to make changes to its portfolio.

Word of the talks surfaced not long after Bloomberg reported that Paramount had also been discussing the potential sale of BET Media, which includes the BET and VH1 cable networks as well as studio and streaming operations. Potential buyers include Byron Allen and an investor group led by BET CEO Scott Mills and finance executive Shinh Chu of CC Capital Partners. Paramount had previously explored the sale of BET but had pulled it back after determining that the bids were too low.

Both WBD and Paramount face significant issues with debt as well as the hefty expenses required of anyone looking to compete in streaming. Since the April 2022 closing of WarnerMedia’s $43 billion merger with Discovery, investors had pointed to the company’s debt as a concern. It also combined a large swath of cable TV assets against a backdrop of accelerating rates of cord-cutting. Shares in the merged company have been trading well below the price as of the deal close. Similarly, Paramount’s reunion of CBS and Viacom has not gone over well on the Street, with the stock sinking to single digits earlier this year and remaining nearly two-thirds below its level at the close of the Viacom-CBS deal in 2019.

WBD and Paramount Global both declined to comment. A rep for National Amusements did not respond to a request for comment.

Paramount Is Reportedly In Talks To Sell BET For Almost $2 Billion

For most of 2023, Paramount has been looking to sell BET. Reportedly, earlier this year, Paramount decided that the offers for BET were not worth it now though Paramount has decided to once again look at deals to sell BET.

According to a report from Bloomberg, Paramount is in talks with multiple potential buyers, include BET Chief Executive Officer Scott Mills and Chinh Chu, a former Blackstone Inc. member. The deal will reportedly be for just under $2 billion.

Originally this deal would reportedly include BET cable networks, BET+, a subscription streaming service, and BET studios. VH1 is now also managed by BET and would reportedly be included in this deal. Now though, it is unknown if VH1 will be a part of this new deal.

Paramount in the past, was reportedly interested in a minority stake but is likely looking for ways to cut back on expenses and earn cash to pay down its debts. It is unknown if this deal will still include a minority stake in the channel.

Paramount also recently agreed to sell Simon & Schuster to Penguin Random House for $2.2 billion, but regulators killed the deal. Paramount also sold the classic CBS NYC headquarters known as Black Rock and a large number of websites back in 2020.

Now selling BET seems to be the next step in Paramount’s efforts to free up cash to pay off debts and invest in Paramount+. 

Credit: Luke Bouma.

Recap To Last Month: Nick Jr. Failed To Enter The Splat Zone As MultiChoice And Paramount Global Promised, Might Launch In 2024 Alongside Nicktoons

Earlier in the year, Paramount Global opted to revive one of Nickelodeon's most iconic logos, The Splat. Together with the previous logo would add a more modern flare with most Nickelodeon feeds in Europe integrating by August with consumers in Southern Africa and likely ROA by October.

Together with the Splat, MultiChoice Africa had switched Nickelodeon to high definition two years after the channel switched to high definition in South Africa. It was mentioned that Nick Jr. would migrate by last month with Nicktoons following sometime in 2024.

Just like Paramount+, none of that came in 2023 as intended with questions surrounding the possible delay of the rebrand. Could it be possible that Paramount Global wants to rebrand both Nick Jr. and Nicktoons together or rather they have no idea when it's taking place.

Unlike Nicktoons, Paramount Global supplies a globalised feed for Nick Jr. (and MTV). If you look at it, Paramount Global (in Africa) don't have much control over majority of the developments seen on this channel as opposed to brands like MTV Base and BET.

If anything, it wouldn't surprise me if Nicktoons were to rebrand by the new year alongside Nick Jr. Despite operating as a local, Nicktoons' offering has been more aligned to their international counterparts unlike previous years were it was structured to operate independently.

Could Paramount Network Be Shutting Down Soon?

As of Jan. 8, 2024, Paramount Global will rebrand the linear Showtime cable network as Paramount+ With Showtime — the same name as the company’s top-tier streaming package. With the name change, the premium cable network will add select Paramount+ original series.

According to Paramount, “The move aligns the brand with the Paramount+ With Showtime plan, a cornerstone integration for the streaming service, making this the first of its kind multiplatform brand that integrates streaming and linear content.” The company introduced Paramount+ With Showtime as the name of its ad-free streaming package this summer and said it would phase out the standalone Showtime streaming app around the end of 2023 and rebrand the cable network.

As part of the rebrand, Showtime subscribers as of Jan. 8 will have access to new Paramount+ original series “Sexy Beast,” the upcoming second season of video game adaptation “Halo” and additional programming from Paramount+, including “Halo” Season 1, Taylor Sheridan’s “Mayor of Kingstown” Seasons 1-2, “Star Trek: Discovery” Seasons 1-4 and “Wolf Pack” Season 1.

Of course something that hasn't been discussed here in general was the future of the current Paramount Network. After replacing Spike, the channel was meant to serve as alternative offering to the Showtime brand with its own range of reality shows, films and dramas.

As of 2022, the channel is basically another TCM and Sundance TV featuring reruns to classic dramas and sitcoms. Similar to Universal Kids, one would say that the channel was struggling to garner traction when it launched as it didn't have much longevity as the studios behind the production of to various content.

With the current Showtime channel set to rebrand to Paramount+ With Showtime it would raise a lot of confusion amongst consumers. Paramount Network would seem more like what Paramount Global is perceiving with Paramount+ With Showtime which isn't the case here.

If one would have to guess what future awaits Paramount Network it would more likely be consolidation or as seen with BET and the rest of Showtime Group - a possible sale. Unlike the latter, Paramount Network has become redundant so they'll likely have to just bundle the channel with the current offering.

Development Alert: CBS Reality Will End It's Run In More European Territories Starting With Czech Republic And Slovakia From 31 December 2023.

After its closure in the UK, as AMC Networks International is streamlining/strengthening their portfolio. It had been mentioned by one of AMC Networks International regional managers that CBS Reality will stop airing in Czech Republic and Slovakia from 31 December 2023.

According to sources, AMC Networks International is looking to discontinue more of these channels in other countries. But they didn't disclose which feeds would be affected by these changes or how long the remaining CBS channels would reside across Europe.

Not long ago, AMC Networks International halted further original productions from CBS Reality in Poland. It was also mentioned that the channel will continue to operate in the market and the same might be said about the feeds in Africa following its recent expansion to StarSat.

Following AMC Networks International's removal of CBS brand name in the linear offering in the UK. It had been long speculated that they look to duplicating this in other countries. Whether this means a complete revamp to content or cease in operations.

In other developments, Warner Bros. Discovery is also looking to close Discovery Science and DTX from 31 December 2023 which would coincide with the demise of Disney's linear offering seen in Europe and this includes National Geographic and National Geographic Wild.

Paramount Executives Could Be Exploring Selling Off Parts of the Media Company

New developments suggest Paramount might be considering exploring more media and acquisition deals.

Last week, the media company filed an 8-K form with the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission that said top executives like CEO Bob Bakish, CFO Naveen Chopra, and executive vice president Christa D’Alimonte could get severance if they’re let go within two years “following the consummation of a change in control.”

On Monday, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) completed its purchase of Paramount’s Mixed Martial Arts company, Bellator. The deal was announced after Paramount said it was shuttering its Showtime sports division at the end of the year.

This year, “significant buyer interest” has seen Paramount’s stock to climb, according to Yahoo!Finance. Due to its smaller size, Paramount has historically been viewed as a potential acquisition target.

Paramount, like a majority of streaming services, has been struggling over the last few years. The loss of high viewership amid the pandemic in 2020, rising inflation rates, and increasing competition from other streamers has forced media companies to pare down workforce numbers, anticipate financial losses, and raise service prices.

The media company has taken a number of steps to keep itself afloat including relieving itself of “non-core assets.” For example, Paramount completed its sale of publishing company Simon & Schuster to investment firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts last month. Rumors also suggest Showtime and BET Media Group could be for sale in the future.

Last month — before the actors strike resolved — Bakish said Paramount would continue to license content beyond its own channels, Advanced Television reported. As an example, Paramount unveiled a multi-year deal with Greek pay-TV service Cosmote TV.

Bakish said content licensing provides “a robust supply of content from diverse creatives to entertain consumers” and anticipates that Paramount will begin to recoup streaming losses next year.

MultiChoice Renews Several Studio Deals Including NBCUniversal, Warner Bros. Discovery, Disney And More

Every year, MultiChoice would usually host a content showcase where they'd display various attractions currently or yet to be seen across their platforms. 2023 was one of those years were for some reason none of this occurred so another option would be the interim results.

Interim results are usually the one way MultiChoice is able to engage with consumers about the performance on their platforms and also a downsized version to the content showcase which reflect mostly toward their assets than 3rd parties.

It is through this report hidden way in a page is the renewal agreement with NBCUniversal, MGM, Amazon, Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount and Disney for their content distributed to M-Net and linear channels. Of course, MultiChoice doesn't provide a duration or terms to these new agreements as seen with Disney back in 2021.

It was also highlighted that they had reduced 3rd parties cost which could mean a number of things: First with Showmax 2.0. set to rollout in the first quarter of 2024 MultiChoice would have to reduce their portfolio so that NBCUniversal can use their 30% stake in the platform.

M-Net had undergone a similar route following the rollout of Disney+ and had since then (co-)produced a number of shows like Devil's Peak, Reyka, Recipe For Love And Murder, and Blood Psalms.

Another would have to pertain to their linear offering, most companies highlighted provide a selection of factual, lifestyle, general entertainment and children's channels. It's likely that one of these channels are going dark soon if not building the lineup for another channel.

National Geographic possibly becoming a member of A+E Networks could mean the end of National Geographic Wild as A+E Networks sustains one channel. Nickelodeon possibly being sold to Warner Bros. Discovery would signal the end of Nicktoons and Nick Jr. as linear channels.

Could Nickelodeon Be Offloaded Onto Cartoon Network In The Next Two Years??? Warner Bros. Discovery's CEO David Zaslav Seem To Hint At That Possibility

Nickelodeon is a children's channel that is operated by Paramount Global which is home to some of the most iconic characters including Garfield, SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and The Loud House alongside iCarly and Henry Danger.

During the week, it was reported that Warner Bros. Discovery was looking to become an acquirer in the next two years as the impact of strikes and write offs to fully developed productions saved them up a lot of money. They site NBCUniversal and also Paramount Global as possible candidates.

Both companies are heading for a loss before the end of this current financial period with their streaming endeavours. It is what led to delay of global rollouts to this streaming services as the latter are looking at potential partnerships with Peacock rolling out across Africa under the Showmax streaming service and likely Paramount+.

Although this sale isn't an official thing NBCUniversal was rumoured to have explored the possibility of merging with these brands but got rejected as the latter felt this merger would favour them. Paramount on the other was in negotiations a few years back with Netflix of a possible acquisition before talks got scrapped as the streamer was more invested in their studios than linear offering.

Warner Bros. Discovery from the looks of things doesn't expect these two companies to recover the lost income overtime and might look to declare bankruptcy if not sale I mean Paramount Global current CEO was open to the idea and had attempted that with BET before plans fell through.

How this affects Nickelodeon?

Not only does Nickelodeon provide content but they distribute a number of TV channels like NickMusic, TeenNick, Nicktoons, Nick Jr. and Nick@Nite. All of this will likely just shut down if a sale were to occur with content like Paw Patrol and SpongeBob SquarePants folded under Cartoon Network and Warner Bros. Animation.

Nickelodeon could continue to operate as a separate tier from Cartoon Network I mean it doesn't seem far fetched. Warner Bros. Discovery had made several attempts at building the live-action offering on Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon had conceived a number of successful shows including iCarly, Big Time Rush and Drake And Josh.

In this current climate where cable TV is being rendered obsolete one of these companies would have to give in and look into offloading assets if it gives them any chance of sustainability. 

Warner Bros. Discovery Looking To Acquire Assets Of Companies Flirting With Or For Filing For Bankruptcy, Hints At The Demise Of Paramount Global And NBCUniversal

Chief Executive David Zaslav and board member John Malone both made comments this week suggesting the company is paying down debt and building up free cash flow to set up acquisitions in the next two years of media businesses suffering from diminished valuations.

The targets could be companies flirting with or filing for bankruptcy, Malone said in an exclusive interview with CNBC on Thursday. While U.S. regulators may frown at large media companies coming together because of overlaps with studio, cable or broadcasting assets, they'll be much more forgiving if the companies are struggling to survive, Malone told David Faber.

"I think we're going to see very serious distress in our industry," Malone said. "There is an exemption to the antitrust laws on a failing business. At some point of distress, right, then some of the restrictions, they look the other way."

Media company valuations have been plummeting amid streaming video losses, traditional TV subscriber defections, and a down advertising market. This has affected Warner Bros. Discovery as much as its peers. The company's market valuation recently fell below $23 billion, its lowest point since WarnerMedia and Discovery merged last year. The company ended the third quarter with about $43 billion in net debt.

Warner Bros. Discovery is trying to position itself to be an acquirer, rather than a distressed asset, itself, by paying down debt and increasing cash flow, Zaslav said during his company's earnings conference call this week. Warner Bros. Discovery has paid down $12 billion and expects to generate at least $5 billion in free cash flow this year, the company said.

"We're surrounded by a lot of companies that are – don't have the geographic diversity that we have, aren't generating real free cash flow, have debt that are presenting issues," Zaslav said Thursday. "We're de-levering at a time when our peers are levering up, at a time when our peers are unstable, and there is a lot of excess competitive – excess players in the market. So, this will give us a chance not only to fight to grow in the next year, but to have the kind of balance sheet and the kind of stability ... that we could be really opportunistic over the next 12 to 24 months."

Still, Warner Bros. Discovery also acknowledged it will miss its own year-end leverage target of 2.5 to 3 times adjusted earnings as the TV ad market struggles and linear TV subscription revenue declines.

Buying from distress

Malone has some experience with profiting from times of distress.

His Liberty Media acquired a 40% stake in Sirius XM over several years more than a decade ago, saving it from bankruptcy. Since then, the equity value of the satellite radio company has bounced back from nearly zero to about $5 per share. Sirius XM currently has a market capitalization of about $18 billion.

"It made us a lot of money with Sirius," Malone told Faber.

While Malone didn't name a specific company as a target for Warner Bros. Discovery, he discussed Paramount Global as an example of a company whose prospects seem shaky. Paramount Global's market valuation has slumped below $8 billion while carrying about $16 billion in debt.

Malone noted that Paramount's debt was recently downgraded. "I think that they're running probably negative free cash flow," he said.

Paramount Global's third-quarter cash flow was $377 million, and the company has forecast a return to positive free cash flow in 2024.

While Paramount Global shares have fallen precipitously since Viacom and CBS merged in 2019, there are signs the company is shoring up its balance sheet. CEO Bob Bakish said earlier this month Paramount Global's streaming losses will be lower in 2023 than 2022, and the company expects further improvement to losses in 2024. The company closed a sale for book publisher Simon & Schuster for $1.6 billion and will use the proceeds to pay down debt.

Paramount Global is one of the few assets that logically fits Malone's vision of a media asset that would have regulatory issues as an acquisition with potential distress concerns. Comcast's NBCUniversal, another potential merger partner, will lose more than $2 billion this year on its streaming service, Peacock, but the media giant is shielded by its parent company, the largest U.S. broadband provider.

"Warner Bros. [Discovery] now is making money. Not a lot, but they're making money," Malone said. "Peacock is losing a lot of money. Paramount is losing a ton of money that they can't afford. At least [Comcast CEO] Brian [Roberts] can afford to lose the money."

Paramount Global's controlling shareholder Shari Redstone is open to a transformative transaction, CNBC reported last month. Puck's Dylan Byers recently reported that industry insiders have speculated Warner Bros. Discovery might pursue an acquisition of Paramount Global after the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

A combination of NBCUniversal and Paramount Global also has strategic logic, but the combination of two national broadcast networks — Comcast's NBC and Paramount Global's CBS — would present a significant regulatory hurdle. Warner Bros. Discovery doesn't own a broadcast network, making an acquisition of CBS easier.

Spokespeople for Paramount Global and Warner Bros. Discovery declined to comment.

While Malone said all legacy media companies should be talking to each other about merger synergies, he acknowledged valuations may have to fall farther to get regulators on board with further consolidation. Malone predicted that could happen in the same timeline Zaslav gave — within the next two years.

"Eventually maybe there'll be regulatory relief," Malone said. "Out of distress usually comes the reduction in competition, increased pricing power, and the opportunity to buy assets at a deep discount."

Recap To Last Month: CBS Reality Ends It's Run In The UK As Paramount And AMC Networks Decide To Drop The Last CBS Channel In The Region After 14 Years

CBS Reality is a factual entertainment channel operated by AMC Networks International together with Paramount Global. The channel is home to shows like Judge Judy, Close Calls On Camera, Border Patrol, Haunted Case Files and Random Breath Tests.

In the UK, it was announced that CBS Reality would end its run after 14 years thus bringing an end to CBS brand name. Prior to this announcement, CBS Reality's programming had been altered to feature true crime and also there's a FAST channel resembling it's likeness.

This was something to be expected and also it doesn't really answer any questions regarding the feed seen in Europe and Africa. One theory that comes to mind would be the disastrous ending to CBS Reality seeing as Poland halt production of further original programs.

Perhaps, the plan would be shift more toward true crime as the last original programs to have been produced were all crime skewed. Another would be keeping the non-crime portion of CBS Reality (particularly in Africa) intact and finding supplements.

This change seen in the UK is part of streamlining efforts and as it is AMC+ is not viewable in some of the regions CBS Reality resides in. It's likely that the channels could take up another form if not True Entertainment or True Crime but it does appear they'll remain intact for the time being.

The Splat Is Back On DStv! As Nickelodeon Across Southern Africa Is Now In HD, Rebranding To The Nick Jr. And Nicktoons Channel To Follow Soon

DStv’s kids channel Nickelodeon has uncovered a new brand identity that calls back to its irreverent history. It includes a reimagined Splat logo, but with a modern feel for today’s kids & families. The rebrand is live on Nickelodeon and will be launching on Nick Jnr from November and on NickToons in 2024.

The new identity positions the brand Nickelodeon and its re-imagined splat as the ultimate “Portal to Fun” - a gateway to surprising experiences Nick kids of all ages will love. This new take on the brand’s classic look and feel demonstrates for kids just what can happen when you enter the splat world of Nickelodeon!

What’s more, this playful brand identity can be enjoyed in full High Definition by children and families across Africa from 1 November!

“For us at Nickelodeon, the reimagined splat logo brings our mission of making the world a more playful place come to life. We hope that kids and their families across the continent will enter the portal of fun and enjoy the new and exciting content we have in store” said Dillon Khan, Vice President for Nickelodeon in Africa. 

The new brand identity will work to demonstrate Nick’s energy and sensibility through the lens of our iconic characters (SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, PAW Patrol, Blue’s Clues, Baby Shark, Dora the Explorer, The Loud House and Monster High), punctuated with moments of quintessential Nickelodeon Slime. Now all in HD for African audiences.

Development Alert: AMC Networks To Rebrand UK Channels, What Fate Awaits The CBS Channels Across Africa?

AMC Networks International has announced a rebrand of its portfolio of UK channels and streaming services owned by the CBS AMC Networks UK Channels Partnership with Paramount Global.

The rebrand, taking place on 22 November will retain the familiar colouring of the channel brands, which will be brought together by a ‘signature open box branding’.

CBS Reality, which has been the UK’s number 1 factual entertainment channel amongst adult women since 2016 and has been airing popular original, expert-led true crime programming, will be renamed to True Crime, and streaming brand True Crime from CBS Reality will change from to True Crime UK. The FAST channel is available through multiple platforms including Amazon Freevee, Rakuten TV and Samsung TV + services initially, with more major platforms rolling out shortly.

Entertainment channel Legend, which features action, sci-fi, adventure and western series and movies, and which was renamed from Horror Channel in 2022, will also go through a brand transformation.

On-demand content from both the True Crime and Legend channel brands are available currently on free on-demand player CBS Catch Up Channels UK which will become Watch UK. Watch Free UK is accessible directly via Freeview, Freesat and Youview, and downloadable via IOS, Android, and all major device and manufacturer stores.

Other channels in the portfolio to rebrand include Legend Xtra and True Crime Xtra, and time-shift versions Legend XTRA +1 and True Crime +1.

Sam Rowden, VP, Content Group said, “With such a vast array of content available across so many platforms, we wanted to elevate our UK portfolio to be more easily recognisable and accessible, and to clearly reflect our content offering. This rebrand closely aligns with our aim to provide carefully curated services catering to both existing and new audiences, wherever they choose to watch our programmes.”

The new look was developed with Second Home Studios alongside AMCNI UK’s in-house creative team led by Creative, Marketing and Communications Director Matt Stott, and the updated identity is supported by a marketing campaign including on air and digital media elements.

CBS Reality's demise in the UK means that the CBS brand name on linear TV has come to an end and similar to CBS Justice these would continue to function in Africa and other parts of Europe which begs the question as to what fate awaits these channels.

CBS Reality has been a crime filtered channel in the UK so the switch to True Crime makes sense. These channels had felt more AMC than Paramount so the names kind of makes sense which begs the question on the fate of its international counterparts.

Considering True Crime seems more permanent my guess is that CBS Justice in Africa will likely fold under that brand name and CBS Reality considering there's been not much put out there in terms of branding my guess would be, True Entertainment or True Television or weirdly enough True Reality.

Seeing as AMC International UK also manage the feeds seen across EMEA this rebrand is likely to be duplicated elsewhere.

Paramount, Home To MTV And Nickelodeon Reportedly Up For Sale or Merger

Recently, Paramount, the parent company of Nickelodeon and Paramount+, has been looking to sell some of its assets and make cuts to others. Now, according to a report from CNBC, Shari Redstone, president of National Amusements and controlling shareholder of Paramount Global, is open to a merger or selling the company if the price is right.

Shari Redstone owns roughly 80% of Paramount Global voting stock and was reportedly the main force behind merging CBS and Viacom back in 2019. That merger resulted in the company we now know as Paramount.

Paramount holds a lot of assets that would attract many potential buyers. Its local affinities and the CBS network alone are highly attractive, especially for their NFL contract. However, the company has a lot more to offer, including Nickelodeon, Paramount+, MTV, Pluto TV, Comedy Central, Showtime, and more. This also includes popular shows and franchises like SpongeBob SquarePants, Star Trek, South Park, and more.

In recent years, most media companies, including Paramount, have been struggling with the growth of  cord cutting. Paramount’s market capitalization has reportedly dropped to $7.7 billion as 2023 hit many media companies hard. That is the lowest level it has been at since the 2019 Viacom and CBS merger. That drop could make the company a target for a merger or a sale.

According to CNBC’s sources, any potential deal for Paramount would have to be at a good price or the Redstone family wouldn’t accept it. Exactly what that price is was not disclosed in the report.

Paramount has a lot going for it right now, with Paramount+ hitting 61 million subscribers, a number that other major streaming services could only dream of. It also has very lucrative sports deals, including the NFL, March Madness, and a new deal with the Big Ten that will see more college football and basketball games on CBS. This could help Paramount outlast any further drop in the market, but it also makes it very attractive to potential buyers.

Some outsiders have said they believe Paramount is too small in the long run, though, to compete with Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, NBCUniversal, and a growing number of streaming companies like Amazon along with Apple. Even with its large catalog of shows and networks Paramount is facing massive companies like Disney and the newly merged Warner Bros. Discovery.

For years we have heard predictions that there would be consolidation in the market because of cord cutting. Disney’s deal to buy 21st Century Fox was likely only the start of what could be a number of big mergers. We also saw Discovery and Warner Media merge recently. Now, there are rumors that Warner Bros. Discovery and even NBCUniversal could be interested in buying up some or all of their competitors. Could that mean they are looking at Paramount? For now, we will have to wait and see.

Paramount Unveils Upcoming Projects Ahead Of Brand Licensing Europe 2023

As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, Paramount remains at the forefront with its commitment to innovation, creativity and engaging content that appeals to all ages and demographics. Paramount Consumer Products & Experiences has an abundance of best-in-class IP, both new and existing, as well as strategic opportunities that will excite any partner.

Off the back of a triumphant return to the silver screen, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have reignited the fandom among both nostalgic adults and curious youngsters. The new look Turtles will continue to expand in 2024, as Paramount is set to kick off an electrifying 40th-anniversary celebration of the beloved franchise. This milestone year will witness the launch of a new animated series that promises to reinvigorate the ninja heroes, as well as a whole host of in-person and digital experiences. A slate of gaming releases will keep drawing in both seasoned enthusiasts and a new generation of fans. That's not all; the slate of content planned for this franchise is truly impressive, with another blockbuster movie already announced for 2025. While the heroes in a half shell have a special place in the hearts of those who grew up with them, this year will showcase their enduring appeal - and their ability to resonate across age groups - by uniting old and new fans in a 'shell-tastic' celebration.

Building on from the Paw Patrol franchise's 10th anniversary year, Paramount and Spin Master have introduced Rubble & Crew, which invites viewers to dive deeper into Rubble's family. The year ahead will also be filled with heroic excitement, as the Heroes in Training brand campaign takes centre stage in 2024. This initiative is not just about entertainment, it's about instilling values of bravery, teamwork and compassion in young minds. Moreover, Paramount recognises the increasing demand for diverse representation, and in response is actively fostering the growth of girls' licensing across multiple categories.

SpongeBob has already come to life across 13 seasons of the original series, two spinoff series and three major theatricals, not to mention his first musical which is touring the UK this year. In 2024, Paramount is celebrating 25 years of this beloved, optimistic sea sponge with a host of surprising and delightful activity and partnerships that are sure to put a smile on everyone's faces.

The sweeping success of Yellowstone has not only captured audiences' hearts but also opened doors to a vast and immersive universe. Paramount has announced a thrilling spinoff that will delve even deeper into the gripping narrative that fans have come to adore. The momentum in the UK is bolstered by the airing of Series 1 on Channel 5, with new products available at retail as the studio continues to build out this now iconic franchise.

Kids can get ready to join Dora on another series of exciting escapades as Paramount introduces the adventurous character to a new generation of pre-schoolers. Dora is back with her vibrant animation and engaging storytelling, rendered in immersive CG animation. Paramount will debut a specially created Dora theatrical short ahead of Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie this October, before the consumer products launch rolls out in 2025.

The Avatar franchise will be serving the fandom with a live action Netflix adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender and new content from Avatar Studios coming in 2025.

While Paramount's small-screen triumphs are remarkable, the big screen still holds its enchantment. Paramount is rich in cinematic content for 2024. If is an imaginative original family title from John Krasinski. The movie tells the story of a 12-year-old girl who moves to New York and discovers that the city is home to an entire world of adorable imaginary friends.

Everyone's favourite lazy and sarcastic cat, Garfield, hits the big screen next year in a brand-new animated movie, with Chris Pratt voicing the lasagne-loving feline. For the first time in the history of the franchise, audiences will also meet Garfield's father, played by Samuel L. Jackson.

The action-packed Mission Impossible saga returns to the big screen with the highly anticipated Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 2, for what is being heralded as the cornerstone of cinematic excellence. The movie will be supported with a consumer products programme.

Channel Shorts: Nick Jr. Global Expand To Latin America And Brazil, Star Channel Rolls Out In Netherlands And Flanders By November, And TNT Provides An Update On Their Status With StarSat

Nick Jr. Global expands to Latin America and Brazil

For several years, various cable providers had been streamlining and cutting back on content costs for their linear platforms in an attempt to boost their streaming endeavours. Nick Jr. alongside MTV seems to be having that ripple effect in parts of the world.

During the week, a viewer had noticed that Nick Jr. had started using the global feed in Latin America and Brazil. Although some level of localisation will still be seen on the brand particularly during ratings buds, advertisements, localised test on trailers, and local programming.

Star Channel to debut on various FOX brands in Europe

The Walt Disney Company has unveiled a new name and visual identity for the TV channel FOX is the Netherlands and Flanders.

As of November 1, it will operate as STAR Channel while at the same time remaining “the number one series channel and home to high-quality entertainment as we have come to expect from FOX”.

According to Walt Disney, STAR Channel’s mission is to continue broadcasting the best action, drama, horror and comedy series from leading studios, including favourites such as “Hudson & Rex”, “Below Deck” & “Chucky”. In addition, the channel will soon launch several new titles. It will kick off with the epic new horror series “FROM” (from the makers of LOST & The Game of Thrones), with more new series to follow later in the season, including “Robyn Hood” & “The Goodship Murder”.

Walt Disney also notes that content on STAR’s streaming platform on Disney+ and the linear channel STAR Channel will differ. Furthermore, STAR Channel will maintain its position in the channels’ electronic program guide (EPG).

StarSat is telling more lies to consumers

Last week, TNT went dark on StarTimes across Africa without prior notice to consumers as it was alleged that the reason for the exit had to with a change in broadcast rights. Warner Bros. Discovery had since then been investigating the matter with an update finally released.

According to Warner Bros. Discovery's PR, TNT was only removed due to ongoing negotiations with S

which seem to have hit a dead end. As StarSat is now looking to replace TNT with another channel and had removed and muted any mention of the channel across their platforms.

Basically, fans of Hollywood blockbusters and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) can continue to watch TNT Africa's programming on DStv (channel 137), GOtv (channel 16, channel 116 in Ghana and 316 in Uganda), Canal+ (channel 140 in Rwanda and 163 in Ethiopia) and C&W Seychelles (channel 207).

#BoycottingNick: Could Play Room Be Added As A Replacement Channel Perhaps For Nicktoons On DStv?

During the week, it was learnt by MultiChoice and Ngwato Nkosi Group that a new children's channel will be allocated on DStv in the coming months, Play Room. It will feature educational and entertaining shows the with selected content dubbed in Zulu.

Since last year, MultiChoice has been battling with transponder constraints that often channels had to be removed in order to make space for more. This is how the pay-tv company was able to rollout Hilaal TV, Racing240, Magic Showcase, Qwest TV and recently added Zee Zonke.

Would it seem far fetched if Play Room were treated in the same manner?

Last year, MultiChoice attempted to phase out the educational brand Da Vinci for a toddler filtered Moonbug and that garnered backlash amongst consumers which led MultiChoice to retract their previous agreement with Moonbug added as a new channel.

But this time around things might be different and MultiChoice may have it's eye out on another brand (e.g. Nicktoons).

Nicktoons was added as a replacement channel for Comcast and Corus Entertainment's KidsCo featuring various shows from Nickelodeon like Paw Patrol, Dora The Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants, The Fairly OddParents, The Loud House and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Over the years, the channel has somewhat been redundant most of the schedule is bombarded with just 2 shows and you'd have a variety of shows like Peppa Pig, Best & Bester, ALVINNN!!! And The Chipmunks being integrated to the Nickelodeon and Nick Jr.

Making it a very easy target seeing as various content is very much viewable on Nickelodeon and soon Play Room. This would be one way to supposedly limit the repeats although Play Room keeps it at a minimum.

Interesting to note, the last kids brand to retain the channel 300 was replaced by Nickelodeon so this would be one way for MultiChoice to avenge K-TV. After its legacy had been replenished by the channel as it's older audience preferred shows like Hannah Montana and Big Time Rush.

Recap To The Week: Paramount Is No Longer Selling BET

Paramount notified bidders late Wednesday night about its decision to conclude the BET Media Group sale process, said a person familiar with the decision who was not authorized to speak publicly. The person said the company determined maintaining a heavy stake in BET creates more value for Paramount than any of the proposals after consulting with a couple highly-experienced financial advisors.

Some popular suitors included actor-director Tyler Perry, music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs and businessman Byron Allen. At one point, some considered Perry as a leading contender based on the two successful series, “The Oval” and “Sistas,” airing on the network. He also owns a minority stake of the BET+ streaming service.

Along with BET, the deal would have included the cable channel VH1.

BET was originally started by Robert and then-wife Sheila Johnson in 1980. Robert Johnson created BET from the basement of his Washington home after securing a $500,000 loan from longtime cable executive John Malone and eventually built the brand into the leading TV network for Black Americans.

Johnson expanded BET by creating smaller digital networks geared to fans of jazz, gospel and hip-hop along with being a publishing house and event production firm. The network was initially led by popular shows like “Bobby Jones Gospel,” “Rap City,” “ComicView,” “Lift Every Voice” and “Teen Summit.”

In the early 1990s, the network became the first Black-controlled television company to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

BET has seen a decline in subscribers and revenue over the past decade. Subscribers fell to an estimated 66.3 million in 2022 from 89.5 million in 2014, a peak year for cable television, according to S&P Global. S&P said the cable network’s annual profits have fallen from an estimated peak of $319 million in 2013 to $188 million in 2022.

Source: Hip-Hop DX

Foxtel To Close Down MTV In Australia Amidst Streaming Shift

This development follows the recent news that viewers will also miss out on children’s favourites, Nickelodeon and Nick Jr.

MTV has been a beloved destination for fans of reality TV series such as Geordie Shore, Teen Mom, and The Hills New Beginnings. The distribution of all three channels to Foxtel was overseen by Paramount ANZ.

A Foxtel spokesperson explained the decision, noting the drastic shifts in viewing patterns over recent years.

“With audiences flocking to on-demand and streaming options, and an increasing array of third-party apps now a part of Foxtel, our channel offerings have been adapting to reflect these new habits,”

While MTV’s reality content may be departing, music enthusiasts can take solace. MTV’s musical channels will continue to be accessible to Foxtel subscribers, with MTV Classic set to undergo a rebranding as ‘MTV 80’s’ from the start of August.

The departure of MTV reality programming from Foxtel comes at the same time industry speculation is indicating Channel 10 is preparing to add a dedicated MTV to its 10play streaming platform.

A spokesperson told sources,

“All the MTV content that audiences know and love will now have a home across all Paramount’s owned and operating platforms.

Further details will be made available soon.”

The reduction in channels at Foxtel comes as the pay-tv platform looks to offset its significant programming costs by moving toward an aggregation model.

Such moves underscore Foxtel’s approach of embracing third-party services, allowing them to forego the need for exclusive content investments. In a telling statistic, over two-thirds of Foxtel subscribers also use at least one other streaming service.

The company’s data highlights a shift from traditional channels to an increasing preference for On Demand.

“A diverse pipeline of content is slated for on-demand, from our international studio partners, as well as a burgeoning array of Australian originals.

Foxtel’s IQ set-top boxes now offer 14 integrated apps, reflecting this trend, with more additions anticipated soon. The seamless incorporation of services like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and ABC Kids, among others, demonstrates Foxtel’s commitment to keeping pace with the ever-evolving entertainment sector.

BET's Future As A Linear Channel Up In The Air As Tyler Perry Reportedly Backs Out Of Deal

Media mogul Tyler Perry refuses to cough up the $3 billion-plus that Paramount is asking in an auction of Black Entertainment Television — and the fierce haggling has begun to throw a sale into doubt, The Post has learned.

The “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” star has been considered the frontrunner to win the auction for BET Group, whose properties include cable channels BET and VH1 along with the BET+ streaming service.

But Perry is losing patience with the drawn-out process after making an offer that’s short of $3 billion — a price tag that other investors also consider to be lofty, according to a source close to the situation.

The filmmaker, who already owns a 25% stake in BET and BET+, has private equity backing for his offer, the insider added.

“He is used to getting his way and is frustrated,” the source said, adding that final bids are due by mid-July.

Paramount Global bought BET for $2.7 billion in 2000 when the Shari Redstone-owned company was called Viacom. The company wants roughly 10 times the BET Group’s current $325 million in Ebitda, or earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, sources said.

However, the continuing decline in cable’s popularity as more people cut the cord figures to be a drag on BET Group’s future earnings.

Paramount Global — which includes CBS, MTV, Paramount Pictures, the recently launched Paramount+ streaming service and book publisher Simon & Schuster — had $15.6 billion in long-term debt as of March, according to public findings.

“Paramount’s leverage now is six times Ebitda, so to make this work a sale needs to happen at eight times or more,” the first source said, since after accounting for taxes a sale at a lower multiple will not reduce its debt level.

“There is interest, but not at eight times [Ebitda].”

There was a report by sometime ago that Perry had won the auction, leading to premature congratulations from Perry’s “Madea” co-star Keke Palmer.

Weather Channel owner Byron Allen is also in the hunt, according to an inside source.

Meanwhile, private equity firm CVC Capital Partners — which partnered with Group Black, a media company that teamed with celebrities including Rapper 50 Cent and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal — is out of the process, leaving Group Black looking for a well-funded partner, two sources said.