Free Press co-founder Bari Weiss named editor in chief of CBS News

Shannon Buck, a seasoned PR and communications professional, is set to join Paramount as the executive VP of communications and PR for Paramount Direct to Consumer. Starting Monday, she will oversee global communications and publicity strategy, bringing her extensive experience from NBCUniversal, where she held a similar role. This move is significant as it highlights Paramount's commitment to enhancing its direct-to-consumer approach, which is crucial in today's competitive media landscape.

Shannon Buck has been appointed as the new Head of Communications and PR for Paramount's Direct to Consumer division. With her extensive experience, including her recent role as EVP Publicity for Peacock and previous work at Netflix, Buck is set to enhance Paramount's global communications strategy. This is significant as it reflects Paramount's commitment to strengthening its direct-to-consumer approach, which is increasingly vital in today's media landscape.

Ian Bohen, known for his role in 'Yellowstone', is set to join the cast of 'Lioness' for its third season, marking an exciting return to the Taylor Sheridan universe. Production has officially started at SGS Studios in Texas, and this news is significant as it highlights the ongoing expansion of Sheridan's storytelling universe, which has captivated audiences. Fans are eager to see how Bohen's character will contribute to the military drama's narrative.

Paramount+ has announced a straight-to-series order for the legal thriller 'Discretion,' starring Nicole Kidman and Elle Fanning. This exciting project, based on Chandler Baker's short story, promises to bring a fresh narrative to the legal drama genre. With A24 producing, fans can expect high-quality storytelling and performances. This move not only highlights Paramount+'s commitment to original content but also showcases the star power of Kidman and Fanning, making it a highly anticipated addition to the streaming platform.

Paramount+ has made a significant move in the TV landscape by giving a straight-to-series order for 'Discretion,' a legal thriller starring Nicole Kidman and Elle Fanning. This marks the first major greenlight since Skydance acquired Paramount's parent company, showcasing the new regime's commitment to bold content. The decision comes after a competitive bidding war, highlighting the show's potential and the platform's ambition to attract viewers with high-profile projects.

The upcoming Paramount+ comedy 'Crutch' features Tracy Morgan as Francois 'Frank' Crutchfield, a dad navigating the challenges of parenthood with humor and heart. Set to premiere on November 3, the show is a spinoff of CBS's 'The Neighborhood' and promises to deliver relatable family moments and laughs. This series is significant as it showcases Morgan's comedic talent while exploring themes of family dynamics, making it a must-watch for fans of heartfelt comedies.

The documentary 'Ozzy: No Escape From Now' was released on Paramount+ on October 6, but it took a somber turn after the passing of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne in July. Initially intended to celebrate his life, the film now serves as a poignant reflection on his final years. The Osbourne family encouraged the filmmakers to continue with the project, emphasizing its importance in honoring Ozzy's legacy. This film matters not just as a tribute but also as a reminder of the impact Ozzy had on music and culture.

David Ellison and Bari Weiss have shared their vision with CBS News employees, emphasizing their commitment to restoring trust within the organization. This initiative is crucial as it aims to enhance the credibility of CBS News, a respected name in journalism, and to engage a wider audience. By acknowledging past challenges and striving for improvement, they are setting a positive tone for the future of the news division.

A group of about 30 employees from Paramount Skydance has expressed strong discontent with the studio's leadership for their stance on the Israeli film boycott. In a letter addressed to CEO David Ellison, they accused the company of aligning itself with what they describe as genocide in Gaza. This situation highlights the growing tension within the entertainment industry regarding political issues and the impact of corporate decisions on employee morale and public perception.

Paramount is making a bold move by appointing Bari Weiss as the new editor in chief of CBS News, aiming to revitalize its traditional news division. In a time when many people turn to social media for their news, this strategy could be a game-changer. Weiss, known for her provocative opinions, brings a fresh perspective that might attract a younger audience and reinvigorate CBS's relevance in the competitive media landscape.

Paramount has officially acquired The Free Press, a right-of-center commentary site, and appointed its founder, Bari Weiss, as the new editor in chief at CBS News. This move is significant as it highlights Paramount's commitment to diversifying its media portfolio and enhancing its editorial direction under Weiss's leadership, who is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovation to the organization.

Paramount is taking a significant step in the streaming landscape by introducing a new ad format on Paramount+ that aims to unify the viewing experience. This initiative, under the guidance of Skydance Media, is designed to ensure that advertisers can reach wider audiences, enhancing visibility and engagement. This move is important as it not only benefits sponsors but also enriches the content experience for viewers, making it a win-win situation in the competitive streaming market.

Dwayne Johnson recently reflected on the disappointing performance of his latest film, 'The Smashing Machine,' which only grossed $6 million at the box office. He emphasized that while it's tough to see a film underperform, the box office is beyond anyone's control. This perspective is important as it highlights the unpredictable nature of the film industry and reminds fans that even big stars face setbacks.

This year's Arab Critics' Awards for European Films has highlighted three remarkable films: 'Deaf' by Eva Libertad, 'DJ Ahmet' by Georgi M. Unkovski, and 'Yunan' by Ameer Fakher Eldin. Chosen by a jury of 100 critics from 16 Arabic-speaking countries, these films showcase diverse storytelling and talent from Europe. This recognition not only celebrates artistic achievements but also fosters cultural exchange and appreciation between the Arab world and European cinema.

Dramas from public service broadcasters in the Nordics are gaining traction, but the pressure is mounting on scripted commissioners due to various market challenges. With global investment declining and local budgets tightening, there's an urgent need to adapt strategies to engage younger audiences and meet diverse viewer demands. This shift is crucial for the sustainability of Nordic dramas in a competitive landscape.

Ruth Jones, known for her work on the hit show 'Gavin & Stacey', is teaming up with the BBC again to create a new comedy focused on middle-aged relationships. This untitled series, co-written and co-starring Steve Speirs, explores the unexpected friendship that blossoms between two individuals who meet at a knee trauma clinic. This project is exciting not only because of Jones's impressive track record but also because it addresses relatable themes of friendship and aging, making it a timely addition to the comedy landscape.

Erik Poppe, the renowned Norwegian filmmaker, has begun filming 'Bad Moon Rising' in Norway, a relationship drama based on the original script by 2023 Nobel Prize winner Jon Fosse. This collaboration is significant as Fosse's reputation spans across the U.S., Japan, and Europe, making this project highly anticipated in the film industry. The film not only showcases Fosse's literary prowess but also highlights Poppe's directorial talent, promising a captivating cinematic experience.

The trailer for 'Sunday Ninth,' a poignant Belgian drama directed by Kat Steppe, has been unveiled ahead of its premiere at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. The film explores the emotional journey of two brothers reconnecting as one faces the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. This marks Steppe's first foray into fiction after her successful documentary work, making it a significant moment for her career and for audiences seeking heartfelt narratives about family and memory.