Author:
Matthew Keys
Matthew Keys is the award-winning founder and editor of TheDesk.net, an authoritative voice on broadcast and streaming TV, media and tech. With over ten years of experience, he's a recognized expert in broadcast, streaming, and digital media, with work featured in publications such as StreamTV Insider and Digital Content Next, and past roles at Thomson Reuters and Disney-ABC Television Group.

Hearst promotes Mike Kronenfeld to VP, National Sales
Hearst Television has promoted Mike Kronenfeld to Vice President of National Sales, expanding the responsibilities of a veteran broadcast advertising executive who joined the company in 2023.

Sinclair “disappointed” by Scripps board vote on takeover offer
Sinclair said it hoped Scripps would engage with the company as it continues to evaluate a potential takeover offer for the broadcaster.

Parks Associates: Video revenue to surpass $190 billion by 2030
Average monthly spending on subscription video is expected to peak at about $122.74 in 2028 before easing slightly.

Gracenote expands On Sports metadata solution to include shoulder programming
The updates cover 160-plus leagues globally and unify live games with related sports content in integrated discovery hubs.

Poll: Most Americans oppose loosening federal broadcast ownership rules
Four in five likely voters said consolidation would raise cable, satellite and streaming prices and reduce local control.
FIRST ON THE DESK

Nielsen: Network TV viewership slumps during second week of December
Nielsen data showed lower network TV viewing in mid-December, with average audiences for top broadcast programs falling week over week.
RATINGS

FCC Chairman Carr defends trolling broadcasters in Senate hearing
Democratic senators accused Carr of coercing networks over programming and transactions, raising First Amendment and independence concerns.

NBC previews AI-driven advertising formats ahead of CES
NBC Universal unveiled new AI-powered ad tech and data products designed to link premium video advertising to measurable business outcomes.

CBS hires former NASA TV supervisor to lead Dallas-Fort Worth stations
CBS News & Stations has hired Tim Hinson to serve as the Vice President and General Manager of its Dallas-Fort Worth owned-and-operated stations.

YouTube to stream Academy Awards starting in 2029
YouTube has secured the exclusive global streaming rights to the Academy Awards under a new multi-year deal starting in 2029.

Sinclair multicast networks see sharp ratings growth in November
Sinclair’s networks networks posted strong November ratings gains, driven by expanded distribution and more-premium shows.
RATINGS

Weigel’s MeTV to air tribute to Rob Reiner on Sunday
The memorable TV network will air multiple episodes of "All in the Family" during a special marathon blocking honoring Rob Reiner's work on the show.