Variety CEO Michelle Sobrino-Stearns to Step Down After 28 Years

Brad Paisley recently sang the National Anthem at a World Series game that made history by going into the 18th inning, tying the record for the longest game. He humorously expressed his enthusiasm for baseball, suggesting he could be the go-to guy for more epic games. This moment not only highlights Paisley's connection to the sport but also underscores the excitement and unpredictability of baseball, making it a memorable event for fans.

In the latest episode of the 'Daily Variety' podcast, reporter Ethan Shanfeld explores Sean 'Diddy' Combs' unique position in pop culture as he prepares for his release from federal prison in May 2028. This discussion sheds light on the potential impact of his return on the music industry and fans alike. Additionally, Marc Malkin shares a lighthearted segment with Hilary Duff during a Red Carpet Rundown, highlighting the fun and glamour of celebrity events.

Variety's Women's Impact Report 2025 highlights the resilience and achievements of women in the entertainment industry amidst a challenging year marked by layoffs and political instability. Despite these hurdles, figures like Eva Longoria, Tayla Parx, and Alex Cooper have not only navigated these issues but also contributed to the creation of blockbuster films and series. This report is significant as it showcases the vital role women play in shaping the future of showbiz, proving that they can thrive even in tough times.

Iliza Shlesinger is set to host Variety's Power of Women gala on October 29 in Beverly Hills, a role she feels is a perfect fit given her career focus on women's issues. This event not only showcases her comedic talent but also highlights her commitment to uplifting women, making it a significant occasion for both her and her audience.

Variety has received an impressive 107 nominations for the Los Angeles Press Club's 18th National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards, highlighting the exceptional work of its reporters, photographers, and designers. Notably, Daniel D'Addario and Chris Willman are in the running for print journalist of the year, while Ethan Shanfeld is nominated for online journalist of the year. This recognition not only showcases the talent within Variety but also underscores the importance of quality journalism in the arts and entertainment sector.

Ichiyama Shozo, the programming director of the Tokyo International Film Festival, has been a pivotal figure in the film industry since the 1990s. He has successfully navigated the transition from traditional 35mm film to digital formats while staying true to his core belief that the essence of cinematic expression remains unchanged. His insights highlight the importance of adapting to technological advancements without losing the artistic integrity of filmmaking, making his perspective particularly relevant in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape.

This week, Paramount Skydance is set to lay off around 1,000 employees, primarily in the U.S., as part of a restructuring effort following its recent merger. This significant job cut highlights the challenges faced by the entertainment industry in adapting to changing market conditions. With more layoffs anticipated in the future, this news raises concerns about job security and the overall health of the sector.

In this episode, Variety's Rebecca Rubin discusses how 'Chainsaw Man' has taken the lead at the box office, surpassing 'Deliver Me From Nowhere'. This is significant as it highlights the growing popularity of anime adaptations in mainstream cinema. Additionally, Nick Vivarelli shares insights from Lucca, Italy, where a fan event is making waves, even outshining San Diego Comic-Con. This showcases the vibrant culture of cosplay and fan engagement in Europe, making it a noteworthy moment for the entertainment industry.

Tonight's episode of the US thriller 'The Hunting Party' features former FBI profiler Rebecca Henderson, played by Melissa Roxburgh, as she faces the aftermath of a secret underground prison explosion. This gripping series delves into the chilling world of serial killers targeting happy families, making it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas. The tension builds as viewers are left wondering how the characters will navigate this terrifying situation, highlighting the show's ability to blend suspense with emotional depth.

The viewership for the first two games of the World Series featuring the Dodgers and Blue Jays has seen a significant drop of 14% compared to last year's matchup between Los Angeles and the New York Yankees. This decline in U.S. audiences raises concerns about the overall interest in baseball, especially as Canadian and Japanese viewers are breaking records. It highlights a shift in viewer engagement and could impact future broadcasting strategies.

Stephen Colbert took a jab at former President Trump during his latest episode of 'The Late Show,' questioning the need for an MRI that Trump underwent. This moment is significant as it highlights ongoing public scrutiny of Trump's health and fitness for office, stirring conversations about transparency and accountability in leadership.

The new anime 'ChaO' presents a unique blend of romance and comedy as it explores the relationship between a mermaid princess and her human husband. Unlike traditional tales, this story avoids the cliché of sacrificing one's voice for love, instead showcasing a quirky take on arranged marriages aimed at fostering harmony between humans and mermaids. This fresh perspective not only entertains but also highlights the importance of understanding and coexistence in relationships, making it a significant addition to the anime genre.

Ayushmann Khurrana is celebrating a significant milestone as his latest film 'Thamma' has crossed the INR100 crore mark at the Indian box office, making it his fifth century. This supernatural horror-comedy, directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and produced by Dinesh Vijan, is on track to become the highest-grossing film in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. This success not only highlights Khurrana's appeal as an entertainer but also underscores the growing popularity of the horror-comedy genre in Bollywood.

The recent episode of 'High Potential' honored co-creator Nicolas Jean, a significant figure behind the original French series HPI that inspired the U.S. adaptation. This tribute not only pays respect to Jean's contributions but also highlights the cultural exchange between French and American television, showcasing how original stories can resonate across borders.