Media Monday: TikTok Slippage, Times Drama & Netflix-Paramount Intrigue - pucks-the-powers-that-be Recap

Podcast: pucks-the-powers-that-be

Published: 2025-12-29

Duration: 26 minutes

Summary

The episode explores potential changes in the media landscape by 2026, including the future of major corporations like Warner Bros. Discovery, Disney, and TikTok, as well as the evolving dynamics at The New York Times and in the NBA.

What Happened

Jon Kelly and Peter Hamby dive into their predictions for the media world in 2026, forecasting significant shifts in major companies. They suggest that Josh DeMorrow is likely to succeed Bob Iger at Disney, indicating a strategic pivot towards hospitality and potentially spinning off ESPN. In a surprising prediction, Kelly believes Netflix will acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, despite skepticism about regulatory hurdles and competition from other bidders.

Peter Hamby raises the possibility of a rough year for TikTok, citing competition from Instagram's enhanced features and potential complications with a new U.S.-specific algorithm. This could lead to a slowdown in TikTok's momentum as Instagram begins to attract more of its user base.

The discussion also touches on the New York Times, where a low-drama era might give way to a succession battle to replace executive editor Joe Kahn. Carolyn Ryan and Kathleen Kingsbury are mentioned as potential contenders, each with significant influence within the company.

On the technology front, Hamby predicts a trend towards consolidating YouTubers and podcasters into larger networks to better monetize content. He also foresees an increase in AI-generated video content, especially in news, as organizations seek cost-effective ways to produce media.

In terms of television news, Hamby expects to see high-paid anchors leaving as networks realize that audiences may not require big names for viewership. The potential for AI to create generic news content could further change the landscape of news delivery.

Sports media is also on the radar, with a focus on the NBA's global ambitions. The league is expected to invest in European markets, with an eye towards establishing a European league to rival soccer's global reach. The NBA's strategy may include leveraging international talent pipelines and expanding its media rights deals.

Key Insights