EXCLUSIVE
MAD Project targets FCC license of Fox News satellite truck
Two years after challenging the license of a Fox-owned TV station, the MAD Project is now asking the FCC to revoke a license associated with a Fox News satellite truck.
Weigel to simulcast Regina Jones documentary across multicast networks
Weigel Broadcasting will premiere “Who in the Hell is Regina Jones?” as a multi-network event on February 16.
Streaming News
Ampere: Holidays shoppers flock to streaming deals, but churn remains a problem
Ampere found most holiday-acquired subscribers cancel a service quickly, with few retaining customers long-term.
Policy & Law
Civil rights groups urge FCC to block TV station acquisitions
A coalition of civil rights groups urged the FCC to block broadcast station deals by Nexstar, Gray Media and Sinclair, citing excessive local TV consolidation.
Radio & Television News
IAB Tech Lab releases CTV Ad Portfolio, updates programmatic guidance
IAB Tech Lab on Thursday released a new Connected TV Ad Portfolio and an updated Guide to Programmatic CTV as the industry moves to standardize emerging ad formats across streaming platforms.
Sports Desk
Disney pulls plug on ESPN 3, shifts content to ESPN Unlimited
Disney has shut down ESPN 3 as it shifts its distribution strategy toward ESPN Unlimited, which carries all programming from ESPN’s cable networks and ESPN Plus.
Special Coverage: Media Earnings
Starz subscribers stable in Q3, but financial loss widens
If there was one bright spot in Starz’s third quarter (Q3) financial earnings on Thursday, it was this: The company didn’t lose very many subscribers.
Special Coverage: NextGen TV
Nexstar CEO: Still optimistic about TEGNA deal, NextGen TV push
Nexstar CEO Perry Sook said the regulatory environment favors mass-media consolidation and the launch of NextGen TV as the new digital broadcast standard.
Advertising & Data
Ampere: Holidays shoppers flock to streaming deals, but churn remains a problem
Ampere found most holiday-acquired subscribers cancel a service quickly, with few retaining customers long-term.
Europe & UK
Priya Dogra leaving Sky Group to become CEO of Channel 4
Channel 4 has named Sky advertising chief Priya Dogra as the public service broadcaster’s new CEO, starting in March.
Best of TheDesk.net
Four years in, free streamer Fox Weather evolves into public safety resource
With wide distribution and a commitment to free, live coverage, the channel has become a trusted source before, during and long after climate emergencies.