John Oliver tricks local stations into running fake blanket segment
The trick, which was ultimately revealed on “Last Week Tonight,” was part of a broader commentary on the practice of sponsored content.
The E. W. Scripps Company (Scripps) [$SSP] is a mass media conglomerate that owns local television stations, digital broadcast networks and streaming television channels. The company operates the Ion Television Network, Scripps News (formerly Newsy), Court TV and dozens of local television stations. It also operates Bounce, Grit, True Real and Defy TV through its Katz Broadcasting subsidiary. Scripps is based in Cincinnati, Ohio.
The trick, which was ultimately revealed on “Last Week Tonight,” was part of a broader commentary on the practice of sponsored content.
A variant of the news channel Newsy will soon launch on dozens of Ion Media stations owned by the Scripps, the company said in a press release.
A local Scripps station has been sued for alleged defamation stemming from a series of news reports published last year.
Scripps is expected to launch two new digital broadcast networks this year while simultaneously exploring new streaming opportunities for its existing networks.
Scripps is integrating its Katz digital networks with newly-acquired Ion Media Networks this week.
Scripps has signaled its interest to keep Sacramento TV station KSPX once its blockbuster merger with Ion is complete.
E.W. Scripps has agreed to sell 26 Ion Media stations to a shell company for more than $45 million, according to filings.
Grit, Laff, Court TV and Newsy will eventually replace Ion Plus, Qubo and two home shopping channels.
Consolidation coupled with a focus on re-transmission agreements have helped local stations weather the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Around 60 channels operated by E. W. Scripps in 42 local markets have gone dark on the satellite service.