News
The latest stories published on The Desk.
CPJ: Israel kills most journalists in 2025, data reveals
More journalists were targeted and killed by Israel than any other country in the world last year, according to a report released by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) in recent weeks.
States may sue to block Nexstar-TEGNA deal
The transaction still requires DOJ review, and approval may hinge on FCC ownership rule changes, waivers or station divestitures.
Estrella TV sees strongest ratings in 5 years
MediaCo says its Spanish-language broadcast network Estrella TV experienced its strongest ratings in five years, based on Nielsen viewership data released this week. The network reported a 51 percent increase in its Monday through Sunday prime-time audience among adults 18–49 ... Read more
Report: The Trade Desk holds talks with OpenAI on advertising pact
The discussions follow a difficult year for The Trade Desk, whose stock had fallen roughly one-third amid slowing growth and rising competition.
Hearst Media Production Group President Frank Biancuzzo to retire
Frank Biancuzzo, the President of Hearst Media Production Group, will retire from the company in mid-2026, concluding a television career that spans more than four decades.
EXECUTIVE MOVES
Audiochuck hires Matt Shanfield to lead new TV, film division
The unit will develop original projects and acquire third-party content as Audiochuck expands into a vertically integrated studio model.
Washington Post picks Veritone for content licensing, archiving
Executives said the agreement expands revenue opportunities while maintaining editorial oversight and brand protection for the Post.
Cumulus Media files for bankruptcy, announces debt restructuring
The plan would give debtholders full ownership of the reorganized company and provide $50 million in new convertible notes.
Philo CEO Andrew McCollum stepping down; Mike Keyserling to succeed
Philo CEO Andrew McCollum is leaving the company after more than a decade; COO Mike Keyserling is succeed him in the role.
FIRST ON THE DESK
Court TV exposes identity of undercover officer during murder trial
Judge Richard Mrazik ordered the network to stop transmitting and later asked outlets to edit or remove archived footage containing the officer.
EXCLUSIVE
Scripps acquiring ABC affiliate in Lexington from Morris Network
The deal will create a new market duopoly between the region's ABC and NBC affiliates.
IAB updates Multi-State Privacy Agreement following new state laws
The revisions aim to simplify compliance for advertisers and ad tech partners by reducing contract friction and clarifying roles in data processing.