News
The latest stories published on The Desk.
Gomez criticizes dismissal of challenge against FCC’s news distortion policy
The original petition, backed by former FCC leaders including Tom Wheeler and Mark Fowler, sought repeal of the news distortion rule, claiming it chills editorial independence.
FIRST ON THE DESK
Cascade PBS launches Local Public as standalone streaming tech company
Executives say the platform is designed to help local stations maintain their role as community-focused public media providers in the streaming era.
Sony to stop selling physical PlayStation game discs in 2028
Sony said the decision was rooted in consumer trends, where gamers prefer digital titles over physical media; the company offered no data to support this.
Plex raises price of lifetime Plex Pass, introduces five-year plan at $250
The price hike on the lifetime Plex Pass was justified as necessary to financially support ongoing software and platform developments.
FIRST ON THE DESK
Weigel promotes William Craig to VP, Network Marketing
Craig succeeds Will Givens, Weigel’s longtime Senior Vice President of Network Marketing, who is retiring from his daily job but staying with the company in a consulting role.
EXECUTIVE MOVES
Fox Nation to debut documentary on UFC White House fight
The documentary offers behind-the-scenes access to UFC Freedom 250, staged on the South Lawn of the White House.
Gray Media agrees to buy American Spirit local television stations
The deal is valued at $50 million, and involves television stations primarily located in smaller TV markets.
TVB criticizes Nielsen Gauge reports as inadequate, incomplete
Nielsen's most-recent Ad-Supported Gauge report artificially inflate streaming viewership by leaving out key data and focusing on the wrong demographic, the TVB said on Wednesday.
FIRST ON THE DESK
Dish Network parent files Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Dish Wireless to formally shut down
As part of the Chapter 11 process, Dish will formally shut down its Dish Wireless business unit; subsidiaries like Dish Network and Sling TV will operate as normal.
British government may intervene in Paramount-Warner Bros merger
Britain's Culture Secretary has expressed concerns over Paramount's blockbuster deal with Warner Bros Discovery; the companies have until next week to reply to her inquiries.
CBS-owned WFOR launches relief campaign for Venezuela earthquake
Paramount's local television station in Miami is launching a relief fundraiser for victims affected by two strong earthquakes that rocked Venezuela last week.
Sky News Australia to rebrand as News24 in July
News Corp's 24-hour news channel in Australia is getting a new name this summer.