“We’re ready for people to stop writing about the Big Four networks and start writing the Big Five,” announced Brad Schwartz, The CW’s president of entertainment, at the top of a Thursday morning meeting with TV press.
It’s an obvious aspiration for broadcast’s long-suffering stepchild, but the timing is a bit odd. The cachet of the “Big Four” — ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC — diminishes more and more each year, rendering the term more of a nostalgic catchphrase than an accurate representation of the true TV power brokers in the age of streaming saturation. Still, growth and a diversified (and, often, less expensive) programming portfolio is exactly what Nexstar Media Group has pursued after completing its acquisition of The CW in 2022. That’s involved a big gamble of the Saudi-backed Liv Golf league, canceling all but four scripted series in the inherited CW slate and banking big on acquisitions.
It’s an obvious aspiration for broadcast’s long-suffering stepchild, but the timing is a bit odd. The cachet of the “Big Four” — ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC — diminishes more and more each year, rendering the term more of a nostalgic catchphrase than an accurate representation of the true TV power brokers in the age of streaming saturation. Still, growth and a diversified (and, often, less expensive) programming portfolio is exactly what Nexstar Media Group has pursued after completing its acquisition of The CW in 2022. That’s involved a big gamble of the Saudi-backed Liv Golf league, canceling all but four scripted series in the inherited CW slate and banking big on acquisitions.
- 2/15/2024
- by Mikey O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The more things change, the more things stay the same.
That may as well be the motto for the five broadcast networks heading into the 2023-24 season as their corporate parents are increasingly focused on cutting costs, restructurings and streaming. To that end, three of the five networks have made leadership changes in the past year.
The biggest change comes at The CW, which is now majority controlled by Nexstar with former Pop topper Brad Schwartz now tasked with making the younger-skewing network profitable for the first time following the unexpected departure of TV’s longest-tenured president, Mark Pedowitz. Over at CBS, Kelly Kahl and his top lieutenant Thom Sherman and their sizable paydays were bounced in favor of former head of current Amy Reisenbach. Over at Fox, Charlie Collier — who led the network following the sale of its studio counterpart — bailed for Roku with the broadcaster tapping unscripted chief...
That may as well be the motto for the five broadcast networks heading into the 2023-24 season as their corporate parents are increasingly focused on cutting costs, restructurings and streaming. To that end, three of the five networks have made leadership changes in the past year.
The biggest change comes at The CW, which is now majority controlled by Nexstar with former Pop topper Brad Schwartz now tasked with making the younger-skewing network profitable for the first time following the unexpected departure of TV’s longest-tenured president, Mark Pedowitz. Over at CBS, Kelly Kahl and his top lieutenant Thom Sherman and their sizable paydays were bounced in favor of former head of current Amy Reisenbach. Over at Fox, Charlie Collier — who led the network following the sale of its studio counterpart — bailed for Roku with the broadcaster tapping unscripted chief...
- 12/8/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It’s the end of an era: Superman & Lois will take one final flight on The CW.
The Nexstar-backed broadcast network on Thursday announced that the upcoming fourth season of the DC Comics drama from exec producer Greg Berlanti will be its final run. The 10-episode final season starring Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch will air sometime in 2024.
“Over the last three seasons, Superman & Lois redefined both the superhero genre and family drama as Tyler, Elizabeth and the entire cast effortlessly portrayed these classic characters with new layers of depth and complexity that had never before been explored in the Superman universe,” said Brad Schwartz, president of entertainment at The CW. “We are grateful for the years of hard work and graceful storytelling from the show’s writers, producers, actors and crew, as well as our terrific partners at Warner Bros. Television and Berlanti Productions. As Superman embarks on his final flight,...
The Nexstar-backed broadcast network on Thursday announced that the upcoming fourth season of the DC Comics drama from exec producer Greg Berlanti will be its final run. The 10-episode final season starring Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch will air sometime in 2024.
“Over the last three seasons, Superman & Lois redefined both the superhero genre and family drama as Tyler, Elizabeth and the entire cast effortlessly portrayed these classic characters with new layers of depth and complexity that had never before been explored in the Superman universe,” said Brad Schwartz, president of entertainment at The CW. “We are grateful for the years of hard work and graceful storytelling from the show’s writers, producers, actors and crew, as well as our terrific partners at Warner Bros. Television and Berlanti Productions. As Superman embarks on his final flight,...
- 11/2/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The CW has found its new programming exec.
NBCUniversal alum Ryan Sharkey has joined the Nexstar-controlled broadcast network as senior vp programming and content strategy. Sharkey will report to CW president of entertainment Brad Schwartz and fill the void created by the June departure of Kevin Levy.
Levy, who was with The CW since its launch in 2006, had served as exec vp program planning, scheduling and acquisitions. While Sharkey’s title differs from Levy’s, the role is effectively the same. Sharkey will lead scheduling and acquisitions teams and be based in New York while also spearheading the network’s growth and its AVOD platform and Fast channels.
“As The CW explores new content that will resonate with viewers on both our linear and streaming channels, Ryan is the ideal candidate to lead our programming team,” said Schwartz. “With Ryan’s vast experience in all areas of network scheduling and acquisitions,...
NBCUniversal alum Ryan Sharkey has joined the Nexstar-controlled broadcast network as senior vp programming and content strategy. Sharkey will report to CW president of entertainment Brad Schwartz and fill the void created by the June departure of Kevin Levy.
Levy, who was with The CW since its launch in 2006, had served as exec vp program planning, scheduling and acquisitions. While Sharkey’s title differs from Levy’s, the role is effectively the same. Sharkey will lead scheduling and acquisitions teams and be based in New York while also spearheading the network’s growth and its AVOD platform and Fast channels.
“As The CW explores new content that will resonate with viewers on both our linear and streaming channels, Ryan is the ideal candidate to lead our programming team,” said Schwartz. “With Ryan’s vast experience in all areas of network scheduling and acquisitions,...
- 10/10/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Three years after the Covid-19 industry-wide shutdown threw a wrench into the broadcast schedules, ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and The CW now find themselves back in familiar territory after the nearly 150-day-long work stoppage that followed strikes by the Writers Guild of America and performers union SAG-AFTRA.
With the WGA strike now having wrapped, the five broadcast networks are quickly assembling writers rooms for such hits as Abbott Elementary, Young Sheldon, 911: Lone Star and a cadre of procedurals from Dick Wolf as industry insiders express optimism that the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike will be resolved quickly and filming can resume as scribes jam out scripts and pre-production begins on the centerpieces of the networks’ 2023-24 schedule.
According to multiple sources familiar with the myriad plans in place at each network — which all hinge on the timing for when the actors strike may be resolved — scripted comedies and dramas could begin...
With the WGA strike now having wrapped, the five broadcast networks are quickly assembling writers rooms for such hits as Abbott Elementary, Young Sheldon, 911: Lone Star and a cadre of procedurals from Dick Wolf as industry insiders express optimism that the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike will be resolved quickly and filming can resume as scribes jam out scripts and pre-production begins on the centerpieces of the networks’ 2023-24 schedule.
According to multiple sources familiar with the myriad plans in place at each network — which all hinge on the timing for when the actors strike may be resolved — scripted comedies and dramas could begin...
- 10/5/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The CW systematically stripped away its superhero dramas and teen-centric soaps during the 2022-23 television season, taking the foundation of its primetime programming slate down to the studs. Now comes the reveal of a renovation that leans heavily on niche sports, noisy unscripted series, procedural dramas and broad-skewing comedies.
The change comes a year after Texas-based Nexstar Media Group acquired a majority stake in The CW from its founders, CBS and Warner Bros. (the “C” and “W” in “CW”). A new owner inevitably brings new priorities and a new regime, and The CW’s freshly appointed leadership team of president Dennis Miller and entertainment president Brad Schwartz have a nail-biter of a season ahead. There’s little doubt that The CW will see a ratings drop, at least early on, as it implements a radical shift in content strategy.
The new CW team can only hope that Nexstar, led by...
The change comes a year after Texas-based Nexstar Media Group acquired a majority stake in The CW from its founders, CBS and Warner Bros. (the “C” and “W” in “CW”). A new owner inevitably brings new priorities and a new regime, and The CW’s freshly appointed leadership team of president Dennis Miller and entertainment president Brad Schwartz have a nail-biter of a season ahead. There’s little doubt that The CW will see a ratings drop, at least early on, as it implements a radical shift in content strategy.
The new CW team can only hope that Nexstar, led by...
- 9/14/2023
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Riverdale star Kj Apa says the show’s constant shirtless scenes with him “messed” him up.
The actor opened up about sometimes disagreeing with how his character Archie Andrews was sexualized throughout the series.
“I’ve been through a lot of s— with that. It can mess with your head a little bit,” he explained.
The New Zealand actor recounted how his original enthusiasm about shirtless scenes eventually turned into a stressor.
“At first, as a young child, which is what I was, I thought it was cool – you almost want the opportunity to be shirtless. I was like, ‘Yeah, let me take my shirt off. Boom!’ And then you gotta consistently stay in incredible shape. It takes a toll,” he explained to Variety.
He recalled times when he didn’t know how to advocate for himself regarding this dilemma.
“Even saying that I didn’t feel comfortable I had a hard time with,...
The actor opened up about sometimes disagreeing with how his character Archie Andrews was sexualized throughout the series.
“I’ve been through a lot of s— with that. It can mess with your head a little bit,” he explained.
The New Zealand actor recounted how his original enthusiasm about shirtless scenes eventually turned into a stressor.
“At first, as a young child, which is what I was, I thought it was cool – you almost want the opportunity to be shirtless. I was like, ‘Yeah, let me take my shirt off. Boom!’ And then you gotta consistently stay in incredible shape. It takes a toll,” he explained to Variety.
He recalled times when he didn’t know how to advocate for himself regarding this dilemma.
“Even saying that I didn’t feel comfortable I had a hard time with,...
- 9/2/2023
- by Afriasia Bermúdez-Crespín
- Uinterview
The CW’s “Nancy Drew” aired its final episode on Wednesday, following last year’s news that Season 4 of the detective series would be its last. At the time, showrunners Noga Landau and Melinda Hsu Taylor said they were “full of gratitude, knowing that we were able to bring this chapter to a close with intentionality,” but executive producer Larry Teng is telling a different story.
On X, formerly known as Twitter, the EP said The CW did not tell the “Nancy Drew” team that the network planned to cancel the show until a “random call 3/4 into our season.” According to Teng, “Nancy Drew” star Kennedy McMann “was in line to shoot ‘The Good Lawyer,'” so her agent called CBS Studios (a production company behind “Nancy Drew”) to ask about scheduling in regards to “Nancy Drew” Season 5. CBS then apparently made a call to The CW “right around the...
On X, formerly known as Twitter, the EP said The CW did not tell the “Nancy Drew” team that the network planned to cancel the show until a “random call 3/4 into our season.” According to Teng, “Nancy Drew” star Kennedy McMann “was in line to shoot ‘The Good Lawyer,'” so her agent called CBS Studios (a production company behind “Nancy Drew”) to ask about scheduling in regards to “Nancy Drew” Season 5. CBS then apparently made a call to The CW “right around the...
- 8/25/2023
- by Ethan Shanfeld
- Variety Film + TV
Following the Aug. 23 series finale of Nancy Drew, executive producer Larry Teng is making clear how he feels about the show’s cancellation.
Teng took to X/Twitter Thursday night to vent his frustration over what he considers was the inconsiderate way the team was informed about the cancellation, and that they had no opportunity to craft a proper conclusion to the show.
“From what I’ve read, the reaction to the series finale have been mostly positive,” Teng wrote. “Now imagine if you watched that finale without us knowing it would be the last episode of #NancyDrew ever. Because that’s what almost happened.
Related: 2023 Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming
Teng notes that star Kennedy McMann was readying to shoot The Good Lawyer, and CBS Studios was hoping for a way that she could do both and reached out to the CW around the...
Teng took to X/Twitter Thursday night to vent his frustration over what he considers was the inconsiderate way the team was informed about the cancellation, and that they had no opportunity to craft a proper conclusion to the show.
“From what I’ve read, the reaction to the series finale have been mostly positive,” Teng wrote. “Now imagine if you watched that finale without us knowing it would be the last episode of #NancyDrew ever. Because that’s what almost happened.
Related: 2023 Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming
Teng notes that star Kennedy McMann was readying to shoot The Good Lawyer, and CBS Studios was hoping for a way that she could do both and reached out to the CW around the...
- 8/25/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Spoiler Alert: This story contains spoilers from the series finale of “Riverdale,” which aired on The CW Wednesday, August 23.
The end of “Riverdale” has arrived — after seven seasons of milkshake-drinking, love triangles, crime- solving and one incredible bear attack. The CW’s teen drama-turned-supernatural phenom finally wrapped up on Wednesday night, but not before throwing in a few more major twists.
The finale, titled “Goodbye, Riverdale,” jumped ahead 67 years. Betty (Lili Reinhart) is in her 80s, and is the last remaining alive member of the Riverdale crew. The night before she dies, she gets a visit from the ghost of Jughead (Cole Sprouse), who takes her back to a day when she missed school, revisiting all of her friends and finding out what happened to them after high school. For a full breakdown of where everyone ended up and how they all died (!), read our full recap.
Sarah Schechter, as the chairperson of Berlanti Productions,...
The end of “Riverdale” has arrived — after seven seasons of milkshake-drinking, love triangles, crime- solving and one incredible bear attack. The CW’s teen drama-turned-supernatural phenom finally wrapped up on Wednesday night, but not before throwing in a few more major twists.
The finale, titled “Goodbye, Riverdale,” jumped ahead 67 years. Betty (Lili Reinhart) is in her 80s, and is the last remaining alive member of the Riverdale crew. The night before she dies, she gets a visit from the ghost of Jughead (Cole Sprouse), who takes her back to a day when she missed school, revisiting all of her friends and finding out what happened to them after high school. For a full breakdown of where everyone ended up and how they all died (!), read our full recap.
Sarah Schechter, as the chairperson of Berlanti Productions,...
- 8/24/2023
- by Emily Longeretta
- Variety Film + TV
Spoiler Alert! This post contains details from the series finale of The CW’s Riverdale.
Goodbye, Riverdale.
After seven seasons that included multiple serial killers, at least one human sacrifice, lots of drug trafficking, an organ harvesting cult, a parallel universe, and time travel in the name of saving the town from an impending comet…the eclectic series has come to an end.
The CW series bid farewell to its characters during a heartfelt episode on Wednesday which saw Betty (Lili Reinhart) at the end of her life. She’s just learned that Jughead (Cole Sprouse) has died, meaning she’s the last of the original crew still alive. As she expresses to her granddaughter that she’d like to visit Riverdale one last time, she’s visited by a younger version of Jughead, who offers her one last chance to spend a day in high school with her friends.
Goodbye, Riverdale.
After seven seasons that included multiple serial killers, at least one human sacrifice, lots of drug trafficking, an organ harvesting cult, a parallel universe, and time travel in the name of saving the town from an impending comet…the eclectic series has come to an end.
The CW series bid farewell to its characters during a heartfelt episode on Wednesday which saw Betty (Lili Reinhart) at the end of her life. She’s just learned that Jughead (Cole Sprouse) has died, meaning she’s the last of the original crew still alive. As she expresses to her granddaughter that she’d like to visit Riverdale one last time, she’s visited by a younger version of Jughead, who offers her one last chance to spend a day in high school with her friends.
- 8/24/2023
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Hey, "Riverdale" fans. We hope you guys totally enjoyed the heck out of tonight's episode 20, especially since it was indeed the very last episode of Riverdale's current season 7 and for the series as a whole. That's right, guys. Season 7 is officially confirmed to be the very last season of Riverdale forever. Yep, according to the folks over at Deadline.com, season 7 was revealed to be the final season way back in May of 2022. During the announcement of season 7 being the final season, The CW's head honcho Mark Pedowitz made a positive statement about it saying, "Seven years is the right amount. I am a big believer of giving series that have had a long run an appropriate send-off. We had a long conversation with Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa yesterday and he is thrilled with the decision. We are going to treat the show in the manner it deserves. It’s been...
- 8/23/2023
- by Andre Braddox
- OnTheFlix
Brad Schwartz, who joined The CW as its entertainment president six months ago, hasn’t won over many diehard fans of the network after he canceled nearly all of its beloved scripted shows as part of a push by its new ownership, station group Nexstar, to make it profitable by 2025.
But what Schwartz has done, in a relatively short time, has been to position The CW in a place where the network can age up its audience, reduce overhead and secure the key rights needed to make it profitable for the first time ever.
To be clear, The CW was never designed to make money as a network. It was launched as a joint venture between CBS Studios and Warner Bros. TV in a bid to generate revenue for both studios through selling its programs internationally and to streamers. And with shows like The Flash, Riverdale, Nancy Drew and Dynasty,...
But what Schwartz has done, in a relatively short time, has been to position The CW in a place where the network can age up its audience, reduce overhead and secure the key rights needed to make it profitable for the first time ever.
To be clear, The CW was never designed to make money as a network. It was launched as a joint venture between CBS Studios and Warner Bros. TV in a bid to generate revenue for both studios through selling its programs internationally and to streamers. And with shows like The Flash, Riverdale, Nancy Drew and Dynasty,...
- 8/4/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
As Nexstar continues to put its stamp on The CW, another network staple is set to depart. Kevin Levy, who is the the executive vice president of program planning, scheduling and acquisitions, will be leaving The CW on August 1, TheWrap can confirm. Levy first joined the network at its launch.
The CW’s president of entertainment Brad Schwartz announced the impending departure in a memo to staff. “A 25-year industry veteran, Kevin helped build this network twice: first during his time at Upn where he began his television career and helped launch shows like ‘America’s Next Top Model,’ ‘Veronica Mars’ and ‘Everybody Hates Chris,’ then again as part of the original executive team that created The CW in 2006,” the memo reads.
Schwartz also praised Levy for his work on network staples such as “The Flash,” “Supernatural,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Jane the Virgin,” “Riverdale,” “All American” and “Gossip Girl.”
Also Read:...
The CW’s president of entertainment Brad Schwartz announced the impending departure in a memo to staff. “A 25-year industry veteran, Kevin helped build this network twice: first during his time at Upn where he began his television career and helped launch shows like ‘America’s Next Top Model,’ ‘Veronica Mars’ and ‘Everybody Hates Chris,’ then again as part of the original executive team that created The CW in 2006,” the memo reads.
Schwartz also praised Levy for his work on network staples such as “The Flash,” “Supernatural,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Jane the Virgin,” “Riverdale,” “All American” and “Gossip Girl.”
Also Read:...
- 6/27/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
The Nexstar-ization of The CW is nearly complete.
Kevin Levy, the exec vp program planning, scheduling and acquisitions, will leave the broadcast network on Aug. 1. Levy had been with The CW since it was launched in 2006 and had been among the last remaining executives from the network’s Mark Pedowitz regime. Pedowitz, and all of his top lieutenants, have systematically been pushed out at the network since station group Nexstar took over a 75 percent controlling stake of The CW in October.
Brad Schwartz, The CW’s president of entertainment, announced Levy’s departure in a memo to staff Tuesday. (Read it in full, below.) “Now that the hard transition work is done, he is ready for his next adventure. We want to thank Kevin for his immeasurable contributions to The CW. Kevin has been an integral member of our team and I have the utmost respect for his leadership,...
Kevin Levy, the exec vp program planning, scheduling and acquisitions, will leave the broadcast network on Aug. 1. Levy had been with The CW since it was launched in 2006 and had been among the last remaining executives from the network’s Mark Pedowitz regime. Pedowitz, and all of his top lieutenants, have systematically been pushed out at the network since station group Nexstar took over a 75 percent controlling stake of The CW in October.
Brad Schwartz, The CW’s president of entertainment, announced Levy’s departure in a memo to staff Tuesday. (Read it in full, below.) “Now that the hard transition work is done, he is ready for his next adventure. We want to thank Kevin for his immeasurable contributions to The CW. Kevin has been an integral member of our team and I have the utmost respect for his leadership,...
- 6/27/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The CW has added another acquired series to its programming roster.
The network, under the control of station group Nexstar since October, has landed U.S. broadcast rights to The Chosen. The drama series about the life of Jesus will launch Sunday, July 16, at 8 p.m. on the network, which will air the first three seasons through the fall before wrapping with the finale on Christmas Eve.
The CW’s deal for The Chosen, a crowdfunded drama from creator Dallas Jenkins (The Resurrection of Gavin Stone), covers the first three seasons of the series. Jenkins has a seven-season plan for the show and is currently in production on season four.
“The Chosen is based on the biggest IP of all time and is truly a one-of-a-kind series that tells this historically significant story in a captivating, dramatic and premium way,” said The CW president of entertainment Brad Schwartz in a statement announcing the deal Friday.
The network, under the control of station group Nexstar since October, has landed U.S. broadcast rights to The Chosen. The drama series about the life of Jesus will launch Sunday, July 16, at 8 p.m. on the network, which will air the first three seasons through the fall before wrapping with the finale on Christmas Eve.
The CW’s deal for The Chosen, a crowdfunded drama from creator Dallas Jenkins (The Resurrection of Gavin Stone), covers the first three seasons of the series. Jenkins has a seven-season plan for the show and is currently in production on season four.
“The Chosen is based on the biggest IP of all time and is truly a one-of-a-kind series that tells this historically significant story in a captivating, dramatic and premium way,” said The CW president of entertainment Brad Schwartz in a statement announcing the deal Friday.
- 6/9/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Between the WGA writers’ strike and Warner Bros. Discovery selling the network to Nexstar Media Group, it’s beginning to look a lot like The CW’s long-mooted reboot of Babylon 5 is dead.
Speaking to TV Line, Brad Schwartz, The CW’s President of Entertainment, spoke about a number of titles previously in development, saying: “We’ve already given those back to the studios, so they’re free to develop those and sell them anywhere.”
He wasn’t talking about Babylon 5 specifically – the article only names the live-action Powerpuff Girls, Arrow spin-off Justice U, a female-led Zorro series, and Jake Chang, but adds “any other prospective series left over from former CW president Mark Pedowitz’s regime.”
The series’ creator J. Michael Straczynski previously paid tribute to Pedowitz on Twitter when his departure was announced at the end of October 2022, thanking him for his “dedication for and support of Babylon 5.
Speaking to TV Line, Brad Schwartz, The CW’s President of Entertainment, spoke about a number of titles previously in development, saying: “We’ve already given those back to the studios, so they’re free to develop those and sell them anywhere.”
He wasn’t talking about Babylon 5 specifically – the article only names the live-action Powerpuff Girls, Arrow spin-off Justice U, a female-led Zorro series, and Jake Chang, but adds “any other prospective series left over from former CW president Mark Pedowitz’s regime.”
The series’ creator J. Michael Straczynski previously paid tribute to Pedowitz on Twitter when his departure was announced at the end of October 2022, thanking him for his “dedication for and support of Babylon 5.
- 5/20/2023
- by James Hoare
- The Companion
The CW can never hold Kitty! How’s that for a deep cut? Don’t worry, Powerpuff Girl fans. I’ve got your back. Some unfortunate news is coming out of Townsville today. The CW is no longer developing several live-action series, including The Powerpuff Girls, the Archie series Jake Chang, the Arrowverse show Justice U, and a female-led Zorro. The same fate goes for all series left over from former CW president Mark Pedowitz’s tenure.
“We’ve already given those back to the studios,” Brad Schwartz, The CW’s President of Entertainment, explained to TVLine after an Upfront presentation, adding, “so they’re free to develop those and sell them anywhere.”
Shutting down development on the abovementioned projects comes as Hollywood struggles to negotiate with the WGA during the most recent writer’s strike. With no timeline for when writers will return to work, more shows could be...
“We’ve already given those back to the studios,” Brad Schwartz, The CW’s President of Entertainment, explained to TVLine after an Upfront presentation, adding, “so they’re free to develop those and sell them anywhere.”
Shutting down development on the abovementioned projects comes as Hollywood struggles to negotiate with the WGA during the most recent writer’s strike. With no timeline for when writers will return to work, more shows could be...
- 5/19/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Powerpuff is officially powered down.
A live-action take on the Powerpuff Girls is no longer being redeveloped at The CW, TVLine has confirmed. The same goes for the Arrowverse offshoot Justice U, a female-led Zorro series, Jake Chang (which was to be based on a new-ish Archie Comics character), or any other prospective series left over from former CW president Mark Pedowitz’s regime.
More from TVLineSuperman & Lois Finale: CW Boss Teases 'Cliffhanger' Ending Amid Ominous Renewal ChatterNancy Drew Fights Her 'Yearning' for Ace in First Look at Final SeasonLibrarians Sequel Series Ordered at CW -- Will Flynn, Eve & Co.
A live-action take on the Powerpuff Girls is no longer being redeveloped at The CW, TVLine has confirmed. The same goes for the Arrowverse offshoot Justice U, a female-led Zorro series, Jake Chang (which was to be based on a new-ish Archie Comics character), or any other prospective series left over from former CW president Mark Pedowitz’s regime.
More from TVLineSuperman & Lois Finale: CW Boss Teases 'Cliffhanger' Ending Amid Ominous Renewal ChatterNancy Drew Fights Her 'Yearning' for Ace in First Look at Final SeasonLibrarians Sequel Series Ordered at CW -- Will Flynn, Eve & Co.
- 5/18/2023
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
The new CW regime outlined their pitch to reinvent the network beyond its former roster of DC Comics-inspired superhero shows in an effort to make the now Nexstar-controlled broadcaster profitable by 2025.
Former Pop TV president Brad Schwartz, now entertainment president at The CW, and network president Dennis Miller (no, not that one) talked press through Nexstar’s first fall schedule for the formerly younger-skewing network Thursday, sharing details of how they plan to use foreign acquisitions, unscripted series and Liv Golf to broaden the network to new, older and repeat viewers.
“We’re excited that The CW is now in the hands of Nexstar, a company with more free cash flow than Paramount, almost as much free cash flow as Fox,” Schwartz told reporters from a podium in New York, where assembled press (and those via Zoom) grilled the executive about the network’s drastic makeover. “The CW...
Former Pop TV president Brad Schwartz, now entertainment president at The CW, and network president Dennis Miller (no, not that one) talked press through Nexstar’s first fall schedule for the formerly younger-skewing network Thursday, sharing details of how they plan to use foreign acquisitions, unscripted series and Liv Golf to broaden the network to new, older and repeat viewers.
“We’re excited that The CW is now in the hands of Nexstar, a company with more free cash flow than Paramount, almost as much free cash flow as Fox,” Schwartz told reporters from a podium in New York, where assembled press (and those via Zoom) grilled the executive about the network’s drastic makeover. “The CW...
- 5/18/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
In 2000, when Upn landed The Hughleys from ABC as well as Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Roswell from The WB Network, industry insiders dubbed it the “Used Parts Network.” Flash forward two decades and The CW’s roster of homegrown scripted originals has tumbled from 18 in the 2021-22 broadcast season to only two shows, with three remaining on the bubble at press time.
The writing has been on the wall for what has become of The CW — whose current name represents its former owners, CBS Studios and Warner Bros. TV. But what is The CW’s brand under station group Nexstar, which has vowed to make the formerly younger-skewing network profitable by 2025? With CBS Studios and Warners now owning a mere 12.5 percent of the network each and Nexstar’s new focus on low-cost acquisitions and unscripted fare, The CW’s brand now may best be described as “Castoffs Wanted” or even “Curated Wreckage.
The writing has been on the wall for what has become of The CW — whose current name represents its former owners, CBS Studios and Warner Bros. TV. But what is The CW’s brand under station group Nexstar, which has vowed to make the formerly younger-skewing network profitable by 2025? With CBS Studios and Warners now owning a mere 12.5 percent of the network each and Nexstar’s new focus on low-cost acquisitions and unscripted fare, The CW’s brand now may best be described as “Castoffs Wanted” or even “Curated Wreckage.
- 5/12/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A couple months ago, Robbie Thompson – showrunner of the Supernatural prequel series The Winchesters – expressed uncertainty as to whether or not his show was going to get a second season now that The CW is being retooled. Now it’s official: The CW has cancelled The Winchesters after just one season.
Kung Fu has also been cancelled after three seasons. The CW provided the following statement to Variety: “As we reimagine the new CW, we had to make some tough programming decisions. We thank our partners at Warner Bros. and the casts and creative teams of Kung Fu and The Winchesters for all their hard work, creativity and dedication.“
The Winchesters‘ chance of continuing appeared to drop in a major way once Mark Pedowitz left as head of the network. Supernatural was already in its sixth season when Pedowitz joined The CW, but he was an established fan who had seen every episode to date.
Kung Fu has also been cancelled after three seasons. The CW provided the following statement to Variety: “As we reimagine the new CW, we had to make some tough programming decisions. We thank our partners at Warner Bros. and the casts and creative teams of Kung Fu and The Winchesters for all their hard work, creativity and dedication.“
The Winchesters‘ chance of continuing appeared to drop in a major way once Mark Pedowitz left as head of the network. Supernatural was already in its sixth season when Pedowitz joined The CW, but he was an established fan who had seen every episode to date.
- 5/11/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Walker: Independence is no more.
The CW has opted to cancel the prequel to the network’s Walker reboot after a single season. The series starring Katherine McNamara was the last of The CW’s bubble shows from CBS Studios. The news comes mere minutes after the Jared Padalecki-led Walker was renewed for an abbreviated 13-episode fourth season at the Nexstar-controlled CW.
Walker: Independence debuted in October as a midseason bow after station group Nexstar took control of The CW. The 1800s-set series wrapped its 13-episode run in early March with a mere 440,000 live same-day viewers, a stat that is increasingly important to Nexstar as it looks to make The CW profitable.
Anna Fricke served as showrunner on the prequel series and will continue in that role on the flagship series for the 2023-24 broadcast season. While Walker ranks as The CW’s most-watched linear series, the spinoff failed to deliver similar results.
The CW has opted to cancel the prequel to the network’s Walker reboot after a single season. The series starring Katherine McNamara was the last of The CW’s bubble shows from CBS Studios. The news comes mere minutes after the Jared Padalecki-led Walker was renewed for an abbreviated 13-episode fourth season at the Nexstar-controlled CW.
Walker: Independence debuted in October as a midseason bow after station group Nexstar took control of The CW. The 1800s-set series wrapped its 13-episode run in early March with a mere 440,000 live same-day viewers, a stat that is increasingly important to Nexstar as it looks to make The CW profitable.
Anna Fricke served as showrunner on the prequel series and will continue in that role on the flagship series for the 2023-24 broadcast season. While Walker ranks as The CW’s most-watched linear series, the spinoff failed to deliver similar results.
- 5/9/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
With new owners Nexstar set to unveil The CW’s strategy for the 2023-24 broadcast season next week, the network has added another U.S. scripted original to those plans.
The CW on Tuesday announced that it has renewed Jared Padalecki drama Walker for a fourth season consisting of only 13 episodes, its lowest order to date. The reboot of the 1990s Western joins All American on The CW’s schedule for next season as sources say Nexstar may be eyeing a mere four U.S. scripted originals on its schedule, which new owners Nexstar has already been populating with low-cost imported shows that have already aired elsewhere. Decisions on the network’s remaining U.S. scripted originals have net yet been determined.
Walker ranks as The CW’s most-watched linear series in its third season among total viewers, a fact that is increasingly important to station group Nexstar as it...
The CW on Tuesday announced that it has renewed Jared Padalecki drama Walker for a fourth season consisting of only 13 episodes, its lowest order to date. The reboot of the 1990s Western joins All American on The CW’s schedule for next season as sources say Nexstar may be eyeing a mere four U.S. scripted originals on its schedule, which new owners Nexstar has already been populating with low-cost imported shows that have already aired elsewhere. Decisions on the network’s remaining U.S. scripted originals have net yet been determined.
Walker ranks as The CW’s most-watched linear series in its third season among total viewers, a fact that is increasingly important to station group Nexstar as it...
- 5/9/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Spoiler Alert! This post contains details from the Season 7 premiere of The CW’s Riverdale.
It’s the beginning of the end for Riverdale. The series kicked off its final season on Wednesday, picking up where the last moments of Season 6 left off, after the characters were suddenly transported back in time to the 1950s right before Bailey’s comet decimated the town.
Archie, Betty, Jughead, Veronica and the rest of the gang are back in high school, in a decade that showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa says is “most associated with Archie Comics.” But while the season will certainly feel nostalgic, it also won’t shy away from the realities of the decade, Aguirre-Sacasa said.
“It would have been disingenuous to erase the real struggles and the real hardships that a lot of people in the 1950s faced, especially for our queer characters and our characters of color,” he told Deadline,...
It’s the beginning of the end for Riverdale. The series kicked off its final season on Wednesday, picking up where the last moments of Season 6 left off, after the characters were suddenly transported back in time to the 1950s right before Bailey’s comet decimated the town.
Archie, Betty, Jughead, Veronica and the rest of the gang are back in high school, in a decade that showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa says is “most associated with Archie Comics.” But while the season will certainly feel nostalgic, it also won’t shy away from the realities of the decade, Aguirre-Sacasa said.
“It would have been disingenuous to erase the real struggles and the real hardships that a lot of people in the 1950s faced, especially for our queer characters and our characters of color,” he told Deadline,...
- 3/30/2023
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
"Riverdale" has garnered a widespread, loyal fan base since it first premiered in 2017, but The CW announced in May 2022 that the show's seventh season, which premieres on March 29, will be its last.
"Riverdale" is an original story based around the characters of the Archie Comics and follows a group of teenagers as they navigate the mysteries and evil forces in their hometown of Riverdale after a murder takes place. The show is led by the now-iconic cast, including Kj Apa, Lili Reinhart, Camila Mendes, and Cole Sprouse. It's filled with thrills, complicated stories, and superhero powers that have kept viewers coming back season after season. As heartbreaking as it is for fans to say goodbye to the beloved show after seven seasons, the reason for its end is as good as any reason could be. Here's everything we know about why "Riverdale" is ending.
Why Is "Riverdale" Ending After Season...
"Riverdale" is an original story based around the characters of the Archie Comics and follows a group of teenagers as they navigate the mysteries and evil forces in their hometown of Riverdale after a murder takes place. The show is led by the now-iconic cast, including Kj Apa, Lili Reinhart, Camila Mendes, and Cole Sprouse. It's filled with thrills, complicated stories, and superhero powers that have kept viewers coming back season after season. As heartbreaking as it is for fans to say goodbye to the beloved show after seven seasons, the reason for its end is as good as any reason could be. Here's everything we know about why "Riverdale" is ending.
Why Is "Riverdale" Ending After Season...
- 3/29/2023
- by Alicia Geigel
- Popsugar.com
More layoffs are underway at The CW, Variety has confirmed.
Sources say that over a dozen people have been let go from the network, mostly in the marketing and finance divisions. According to an individual with knowledge of the situation, those released this time were supposed to be part of an initial round of cuts that took place late last year, but ongoing projects or remaining time on their contracts meant they were not let go until today.
This marks the latest layoffs at the broadcast network since Nexstar acquired a majority stake in it in October 2022. As Variety exclusively reported in November, between 30-40 staffers were laid off shortly after the deal closed, including longtime network communications head Paul Hewitt. Those came after network head Mark Pedowitz stepped down along with several other senior executives.
Nexstar has made it clear that they are planning to revamp programming at the network,...
Sources say that over a dozen people have been let go from the network, mostly in the marketing and finance divisions. According to an individual with knowledge of the situation, those released this time were supposed to be part of an initial round of cuts that took place late last year, but ongoing projects or remaining time on their contracts meant they were not let go until today.
This marks the latest layoffs at the broadcast network since Nexstar acquired a majority stake in it in October 2022. As Variety exclusively reported in November, between 30-40 staffers were laid off shortly after the deal closed, including longtime network communications head Paul Hewitt. Those came after network head Mark Pedowitz stepped down along with several other senior executives.
Nexstar has made it clear that they are planning to revamp programming at the network,...
- 3/23/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: The CW is undergoing another round of staff cuts, sources tell Deadline. We hear more than 15 people were affected, with the marketing/promotional team impacted, along with finance.
The laid-off employees are said to include mid- and high-level executives, including some in SVP roles. A rep for CW parent Nexstar Media declined comment.
Today’s staff reductions come a month and a half after Chris Spadaccini joined the CW as Chief Marketing Officer. They also come amid uncertainty over the programming direction of the network, which is expected to pull away from the high-end scripted series that have been dominating its schedule. So far, only flagship drama All American has been renewed for next season.
The first major wave of layoffs hit last November 1, less than a month after Nexstar closed a deal to take 75% ownership of The CW, when about 30 to 40 staffers across multiple areas left. Those reductions...
The laid-off employees are said to include mid- and high-level executives, including some in SVP roles. A rep for CW parent Nexstar Media declined comment.
Today’s staff reductions come a month and a half after Chris Spadaccini joined the CW as Chief Marketing Officer. They also come amid uncertainty over the programming direction of the network, which is expected to pull away from the high-end scripted series that have been dominating its schedule. So far, only flagship drama All American has been renewed for next season.
The first major wave of layoffs hit last November 1, less than a month after Nexstar closed a deal to take 75% ownership of The CW, when about 30 to 40 staffers across multiple areas left. Those reductions...
- 3/23/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva and Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Prior to Nexstar Media Group, Inc. acquiring a 75% ownership interest in The CW Network, the TV network reported $100 million in losses, canceled numerous series and retired long-time president Mark Pedowitz, seemingly signalling the end of grooming popular DC Comics' superheroes into woke TV content 'Lqbtq' characters:
The CW's recently canceled TV series include "Supergirl", "Naomi", "Batwoman", "Legends of Tomorrow", "In the Dark", the "Vampire Diaries" spinoff "Legacies", as well as the network's reboots of "Charmed", "Dynasty", "4400" and "Roswell, New Mexico".
Final seasons this year also include the series "The Flash", "Superman & Lois", "All American", "Nancy Drew", "Stargirl", "Walker" and "Kung Fu".
Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global, the current co-owners of The CW, will each retain a 12.5 percent ownership interest in the network and will continue to produce original, scripted content.
Click the images to enlarge…...
The CW's recently canceled TV series include "Supergirl", "Naomi", "Batwoman", "Legends of Tomorrow", "In the Dark", the "Vampire Diaries" spinoff "Legacies", as well as the network's reboots of "Charmed", "Dynasty", "4400" and "Roswell, New Mexico".
Final seasons this year also include the series "The Flash", "Superman & Lois", "All American", "Nancy Drew", "Stargirl", "Walker" and "Kung Fu".
Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global, the current co-owners of The CW, will each retain a 12.5 percent ownership interest in the network and will continue to produce original, scripted content.
Click the images to enlarge…...
- 3/15/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
The CW series Supernatural was already in its sixth season when Mark Pedowitz became head of the network, but he was an established fan who had seen every episode to date. And as the series continued through the 15 season run that Pedowitz enabled, the network head was so supportive that Supernatural stars Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles – who played monster-hunting brothers Sam and Dean Winchester on the show – came to think of him as “the other Winchester”. Pedowitz was still the head of The CW when the Supernatural prequel series The Winchesters was ordered, but last year Nexstar Media Group acquired a controlling interest in the network and Pedowitz exited his post. The Winchesters‘ first season just finished airing, and showrunner Robbie Thompson told TV Line he’s not sure if there will be a season 2 at The CW now that Pedowitz is gone.
Thompson said, “I’ve spoken a...
Thompson said, “I’ve spoken a...
- 3/8/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
The fate of the universe hangs in the balance on The Winchesters, and so does the future of the CW series as its finale airs this Tuesday (at 8/7c).
Much like fellow freshman newbie/prequel spinoff Walker Independence, the Supernatural offshoot has yet to be renewed or cancelled amid the changes at the network, which began in August 2022, when local-tv giant Nexstar Media Group acquired majority ownership of The CW. Shortly after, network boss Mark Pedowitz — who was one of Supernatural‘s biggest champions — exited his post. The new Nexstar regime has indicated that just “a couple of shows” from...
Much like fellow freshman newbie/prequel spinoff Walker Independence, the Supernatural offshoot has yet to be renewed or cancelled amid the changes at the network, which began in August 2022, when local-tv giant Nexstar Media Group acquired majority ownership of The CW. Shortly after, network boss Mark Pedowitz — who was one of Supernatural‘s biggest champions — exited his post. The new Nexstar regime has indicated that just “a couple of shows” from...
- 3/6/2023
- by Vlada Gelman
- TVLine.com
Mark Pedowitz, former Chairman and CEO of the CW, and his production company Pine Street Entertainment have signed with CAA for representation. The move comes as Pedowitz contemplates his future as a producer after exiting the CW in October, following Nexstar’s acquisition of the broadcast network.
Pedowitz originally launched Pine Street Entertainment in 2010, following his exit from Disney after 19 years — including a stint as President of ABC Studios — with a first-look deal at Warner Bros. TV. The next year, he returned to the executive ranks when he was recruited to run the CW but his brief first tenure as a producer resulted in a couple of pilots and one series, David E. Kelley’s CBS comedy The Crazy Ones starring Robin Williams and Sarah Michelle Gellar.
When Pedowitz left the CW, there was expectation originally that he would sign a producing deal with Warner Bros. TV or CBS Studios,...
Pedowitz originally launched Pine Street Entertainment in 2010, following his exit from Disney after 19 years — including a stint as President of ABC Studios — with a first-look deal at Warner Bros. TV. The next year, he returned to the executive ranks when he was recruited to run the CW but his brief first tenure as a producer resulted in a couple of pilots and one series, David E. Kelley’s CBS comedy The Crazy Ones starring Robin Williams and Sarah Michelle Gellar.
When Pedowitz left the CW, there was expectation originally that he would sign a producing deal with Warner Bros. TV or CBS Studios,...
- 3/2/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
As former The CW chairman and CEO Mark Pedowitz gets back into the production business, he has sign on with CAA for representation, the tenpercentary announced on Thursday. Pedowitz has revived his shingle, Pine Street Entertainment, which is represented by CAA as part of the arrangement.
Pedowitz announced his departure from The CW in October, following Nexstar Media Group’s acquisition of the network from its previous joint operators CBS and Warner Bros.
In reviving Pine Street Entertainment, Pedowitz is bringing back his independent production company that produced CBS’ “The Crazy Ones” (starring Sarah Michelle Gellar and Robin Williams), as well as a number of development projects.
Pedowitz had joined The CW in 2011 and oversaw its programming and strategic operations for 11 years until the ownership change in 2022. While there, he brought the network to seven nights a week, struck innovative business deals, increased the CW’s programming volume and helped...
Pedowitz announced his departure from The CW in October, following Nexstar Media Group’s acquisition of the network from its previous joint operators CBS and Warner Bros.
In reviving Pine Street Entertainment, Pedowitz is bringing back his independent production company that produced CBS’ “The Crazy Ones” (starring Sarah Michelle Gellar and Robin Williams), as well as a number of development projects.
Pedowitz had joined The CW in 2011 and oversaw its programming and strategic operations for 11 years until the ownership change in 2022. While there, he brought the network to seven nights a week, struck innovative business deals, increased the CW’s programming volume and helped...
- 3/2/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Mark Pedowitz has signed with CAA for representation in all areas.
The former president and CEO of The CW is returning to the producing game following his more than a decade run atop the younger-skewing broadcast network. CAA will rep the former executive and his Pine Street Entertainment production company.
Until last October, Pedowitz was broadcast’s longest-tenured network chief. The respected executive had called The CW home since 2011, when he was hired to expand the former WB Network’s reach and transform the fifth broadcast net from its female-skewing predecessor. During his run, Pedowitz and Greg Berlanti ushered in the era of the Arrow-verse, a multiple-show world of shows based on DC Comics characters that also included The Flash, Legends of Tomorrow, Batwoman, Superman & Lois and more.
Pedowitz transformed The CW into a home for inclusive and award-winning content including Jane the Virgin, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend as well as teen-favorite...
The former president and CEO of The CW is returning to the producing game following his more than a decade run atop the younger-skewing broadcast network. CAA will rep the former executive and his Pine Street Entertainment production company.
Until last October, Pedowitz was broadcast’s longest-tenured network chief. The respected executive had called The CW home since 2011, when he was hired to expand the former WB Network’s reach and transform the fifth broadcast net from its female-skewing predecessor. During his run, Pedowitz and Greg Berlanti ushered in the era of the Arrow-verse, a multiple-show world of shows based on DC Comics characters that also included The Flash, Legends of Tomorrow, Batwoman, Superman & Lois and more.
Pedowitz transformed The CW into a home for inclusive and award-winning content including Jane the Virgin, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend as well as teen-favorite...
- 3/2/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Walker Independence will wrap up its freshman run with this Thursday’s finale, but it remains to be seen whether the episode will be the final one to air on The CW following much turnover at the network.
In August 2022, local-tv giant Nexstar Media Group acquired majority ownership of The CW, after which network boss Mark Pedowitz exited and was replaced by TV executive-turned-venture capitalist Dennis Miller. Nexstar execs indicated that the plan for The CW’s future includes targeting older viewers and a focus on low-cost unscripted programming. But “there may be a couple of shows that distinguish themselves...
In August 2022, local-tv giant Nexstar Media Group acquired majority ownership of The CW, after which network boss Mark Pedowitz exited and was replaced by TV executive-turned-venture capitalist Dennis Miller. Nexstar execs indicated that the plan for The CW’s future includes targeting older viewers and a focus on low-cost unscripted programming. But “there may be a couple of shows that distinguish themselves...
- 3/2/2023
- by Vlada Gelman
- TVLine.com
The ninth and final season of "The Flash" is set to premiere on Feb. 8 and will wrap up after just 13 episodes. The show's finale, which will air in May, will mark the end of The CW's Arrowverse. The franchise, which was inspired by DC Comics, began with "Arrow" in 2012 and expanded with the premiere of "The Flash" in 2014. It was then followed by "Supergirl," "Legends of Tomorrow," "Black Lightning," and "Batwoman." Considering "The Flash" has been one of the Arrowverse's most successful series, you might be wondering why the show is ending after season nine.
The good news is it had nothing to do with viewership. The eighth season of "The Flash" reportedly averaged one million viewers, making it one of the most-watched shows on The CW from 2021 to 2022. But since all good things must come to an end, it seems it was just time for "The Flash" to wrap...
The good news is it had nothing to do with viewership. The eighth season of "The Flash" reportedly averaged one million viewers, making it one of the most-watched shows on The CW from 2021 to 2022. But since all good things must come to an end, it seems it was just time for "The Flash" to wrap...
- 2/8/2023
- by Michele Mendez
- Popsugar.com
Further to Nexstar Media Group, Inc. acquiring a 75 ownership interest in The CW Network, LLC (aka The CW), the TV network reported 100 million in losses, canceled numerous series and fired longtime president Mark Pedowitz, finance chief Mitch Nedick and chief branding Officer Rick Haskins, seemingly signalling the end of producer Greg Berlanti's 'gay-tv' push, that encouraged writers to groom popular DC Comics' superheroes into woke 'Lqbtq' characters:
Also let go from The CW were Gaye Hirsch, the network's EVP of Development and Michael Roberts, EVP of Current Programming.
The CW's recently canceled TV series include "Supergirl", "Naomi", "Batwoman", "Legends of Tomorrow", "In the Dark", the "Vampire Diaries" spinoff "Legacies", as well as the network's reboots of "Charmed", "Dynasty", "4400" and "Roswell, New Mexico".
Final seasons this year also include the series "The Flash", "Superman & Lois", "All American", "Nancy Drew", "Stargirl", "Walker" and "Kung Fu".
Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global,...
Also let go from The CW were Gaye Hirsch, the network's EVP of Development and Michael Roberts, EVP of Current Programming.
The CW's recently canceled TV series include "Supergirl", "Naomi", "Batwoman", "Legends of Tomorrow", "In the Dark", the "Vampire Diaries" spinoff "Legacies", as well as the network's reboots of "Charmed", "Dynasty", "4400" and "Roswell, New Mexico".
Final seasons this year also include the series "The Flash", "Superman & Lois", "All American", "Nancy Drew", "Stargirl", "Walker" and "Kung Fu".
Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global,...
- 2/3/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
In what appears to be a new wave of layoffs, several senior scripted executives have left the broadcast network, including Gaye Hirsch, EVP, Development, who is departing after more than 15 years, and fellow CW veteran and head of department, Michael Roberts, who had been at the network (and its predecessor the WB) for 21 years, sources tell deadline.
Also said to be leaving alongside Hirsch and Roberts are Ellen Rand, SVP of Current Programming and Steve Tao, VP, Current Programming, I hear. The full extent of layoffs is unclear. Reps for the CW did not return calls and emails seeking comment.
The high-profile departures come three months after new CW owner, Nexstar, named former Pop TV topper Brad Schwartz as President of Entertainment.
In his first major executive move, he just hired former NBCUniversal executive Heather Olander as Head of Unscripted, an area that will have a big presence on the network in its new incarnation,...
Also said to be leaving alongside Hirsch and Roberts are Ellen Rand, SVP of Current Programming and Steve Tao, VP, Current Programming, I hear. The full extent of layoffs is unclear. Reps for the CW did not return calls and emails seeking comment.
The high-profile departures come three months after new CW owner, Nexstar, named former Pop TV topper Brad Schwartz as President of Entertainment.
In his first major executive move, he just hired former NBCUniversal executive Heather Olander as Head of Unscripted, an area that will have a big presence on the network in its new incarnation,...
- 2/3/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
The CW, in its latest shift away from scripted originals, is dismantling its current programming department.
Sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that exec vp current programming Michael Roberts and exec vp development Gaye Hirsch — two of The CW’s remaining most important scripted executives — are among those who were let go Thursday. An exact headcount was not immediately available, though sources say others were impacted by the layoffs.
While losing the heads of current and development are a big blow to The CW’s efforts to continue making scripted originals, this is not a complete dismantling of its scripted executives as sources say some lower-level staffers — i.e., those with smaller salaries — are being retained.
Reps for The CW did not respond to THR’s multiple requests for comment.
The workforce reduction marks the latest blow to The CW under station group Nexstar, which took control of the younger-skewing broadcaster...
Sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that exec vp current programming Michael Roberts and exec vp development Gaye Hirsch — two of The CW’s remaining most important scripted executives — are among those who were let go Thursday. An exact headcount was not immediately available, though sources say others were impacted by the layoffs.
While losing the heads of current and development are a big blow to The CW’s efforts to continue making scripted originals, this is not a complete dismantling of its scripted executives as sources say some lower-level staffers — i.e., those with smaller salaries — are being retained.
Reps for The CW did not respond to THR’s multiple requests for comment.
The workforce reduction marks the latest blow to The CW under station group Nexstar, which took control of the younger-skewing broadcaster...
- 2/3/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“All American” has gotten an early renewal for Season 6 at The CW.
“Over the last five seasons, ‘All American’ has established itself as one of the all-time CW flagship franchises,” said Brad Schwartz, president of entertainment at The CW. “‘All American’ is not only the network’s youngest series, but also the strongest performer when combining all our platforms. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll, Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter, the entire creative team and the incredible cast for another season of captivating family drama.”
The drama series follows Spencer James (Daniel Ezra), a star high school football player from South L.A. who is recruited to play for Beverly Hills High. The cast also includes, Taye Diggs, Monet Mazur, Samantha Logan, Cody Christian, Bre-z, Hunter Clowdus, Michael Evans Behling, and Greta Onieogou. Season 5 debuted in October and will return with its midseason premiere on Jan.
“Over the last five seasons, ‘All American’ has established itself as one of the all-time CW flagship franchises,” said Brad Schwartz, president of entertainment at The CW. “‘All American’ is not only the network’s youngest series, but also the strongest performer when combining all our platforms. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll, Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter, the entire creative team and the incredible cast for another season of captivating family drama.”
The drama series follows Spencer James (Daniel Ezra), a star high school football player from South L.A. who is recruited to play for Beverly Hills High. The cast also includes, Taye Diggs, Monet Mazur, Samantha Logan, Cody Christian, Bre-z, Hunter Clowdus, Michael Evans Behling, and Greta Onieogou. Season 5 debuted in October and will return with its midseason premiere on Jan.
- 1/11/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
We’ve all seen the memes: January is the time when our out-of-office messages give way to “circling back” emails about unfinished business left over from the pre-holiday frenzy. And while everyone is sending and receiving a fair amount of those, the start of 2023 on the TV beat has been near total radio silence.
Outside of the plethora of premiere dates and first-look clips that have been unspooling at a rate comparable to a Randy Johnson fastball as networks and streamers fire their marketing machines back up, the breaking news front has been relatively quiet. Much of this can be chalked up to everyone returning from holiday break and getting back into the groove, but the post-holiday news cycle usually comes back with a frenzy after a day or two to settle back in.
For me, the lack of new series orders to start the year — yes, there were more...
Outside of the plethora of premiere dates and first-look clips that have been unspooling at a rate comparable to a Randy Johnson fastball as networks and streamers fire their marketing machines back up, the breaking news front has been relatively quiet. Much of this can be chalked up to everyone returning from holiday break and getting back into the groove, but the post-holiday news cycle usually comes back with a frenzy after a day or two to settle back in.
For me, the lack of new series orders to start the year — yes, there were more...
- 1/5/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The CW has picked up a documentary series about the lead up to the Indianapolis 500.
Titled “100 Days to Indy,” the six-part series is said to “take fans behind the scenes to chronicle the bold and brash personalities of the Ntt Indycar Series as they begin the 2023 season and start their epic quest for racing’s greatest prize.” The series does not have a premiere date at the time of this publishing, but is expected to launch in Spring 2023.
“100 Days to Indy” is produced by Penske Entertainment and Vice Media Group. It is directed by Patrick Dimon and executive produced by Bryan Terry for Vice.
“’100 Days To Indy’ is a high-octane adventure grounded in emotional sports storytelling,” said Brad Schwartz, president of entertainment at The CW Network. “Alongside our partners at Vice Media Group, Penske Entertainment and Ntt Indycar Series, we have come together to deliver a series that will follow...
Titled “100 Days to Indy,” the six-part series is said to “take fans behind the scenes to chronicle the bold and brash personalities of the Ntt Indycar Series as they begin the 2023 season and start their epic quest for racing’s greatest prize.” The series does not have a premiere date at the time of this publishing, but is expected to launch in Spring 2023.
“100 Days to Indy” is produced by Penske Entertainment and Vice Media Group. It is directed by Patrick Dimon and executive produced by Bryan Terry for Vice.
“’100 Days To Indy’ is a high-octane adventure grounded in emotional sports storytelling,” said Brad Schwartz, president of entertainment at The CW Network. “Alongside our partners at Vice Media Group, Penske Entertainment and Ntt Indycar Series, we have come together to deliver a series that will follow...
- 12/8/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Rob Tuck, the veteran ad-sales chief of the CW network, is leaving the outlet as it moves forward under new ownership, according to two people familiar with the matter
Tuck has posted information about his coming retirement on social media. He has been with the CW and its antecedent, the WB, since mid-1995 — its first broadcast season — rising up through the ranks until he was named executive vice president of national sales in 2008. Before joining the WB, Tuck was group director of national broadcast at the large TeleVest media-buying agency, which was renamed MediaVest.
A spokeswoman for the CW did not immediately respond to a query seeking comment,
Tuck is one of the industry’s longest-serving TV ad-sales chiefs, having run the CW’s outreach efforts to Madison Avenue for nearly 14 years. During that time, he helped garner ad support for programing ranging from “Gossip Girl” and Wildcats” to “The Flash” and “Arrow.
Tuck has posted information about his coming retirement on social media. He has been with the CW and its antecedent, the WB, since mid-1995 — its first broadcast season — rising up through the ranks until he was named executive vice president of national sales in 2008. Before joining the WB, Tuck was group director of national broadcast at the large TeleVest media-buying agency, which was renamed MediaVest.
A spokeswoman for the CW did not immediately respond to a query seeking comment,
Tuck is one of the industry’s longest-serving TV ad-sales chiefs, having run the CW’s outreach efforts to Madison Avenue for nearly 14 years. During that time, he helped garner ad support for programing ranging from “Gossip Girl” and Wildcats” to “The Flash” and “Arrow.
- 12/6/2022
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Nexstar Media Group has appointed former Turner ad sales exec Michael Strober to the newly created position of EVP and Chief Revenue Officer.
Strober will be responsible for “leading the reimagination and execution of a new advertising sales and go-to-market strategy for the company,” according to the official announcement. Nexstar execs in recent weeks have noted that the company pursued the acquisition of The CW in part because it would make the company a player in the national ad sales marketplace.
Strober will report to CEO Perry Sook, and will start in his new role next January 2.
The company’s acquisition of The CW, completed in October, led to the expected exits of several top-level executives at the broadcast network, including longtime CEO Mark Pedowitz. As Deadline has reported, Nexstar’s plans to install a Cro have been expected to have an impact on the network’s sales department, which...
Strober will be responsible for “leading the reimagination and execution of a new advertising sales and go-to-market strategy for the company,” according to the official announcement. Nexstar execs in recent weeks have noted that the company pursued the acquisition of The CW in part because it would make the company a player in the national ad sales marketplace.
Strober will report to CEO Perry Sook, and will start in his new role next January 2.
The company’s acquisition of The CW, completed in October, led to the expected exits of several top-level executives at the broadcast network, including longtime CEO Mark Pedowitz. As Deadline has reported, Nexstar’s plans to install a Cro have been expected to have an impact on the network’s sales department, which...
- 12/1/2022
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Restructuring, streamlining and realignment. We’ve been hearing that phrasing quite a bit over the past few months as media congloms have been thinning out their top executive ranks and targeting efficiencies to improve their balance sheets in a time when the effects from the pandemic are being exacerbated by the impact of the economic slowdown, high inflation and a looming recession.
Related Story CBS Shakeup: Thom Sherman Steps Down & Segues To Producing Deal, Amy Reisenbach Upped To President Of Entertainment Related Story The TV Network Slot Machines Built? Nexstar Says Its Investment In The CW To Be Mostly Funded By Proceeds From Sale Of Chicago Property To Casino Developer Related Story Kelly Kahl To Depart As CBS Entertainment President After 26 Years At Broadcast Network
CBS president and CEO George Cheeks used the “restructuring and streamlining” language in his memos yesterday announcing the exits of Kelly Kahl, a 26-year CBS veteran,...
Related Story CBS Shakeup: Thom Sherman Steps Down & Segues To Producing Deal, Amy Reisenbach Upped To President Of Entertainment Related Story The TV Network Slot Machines Built? Nexstar Says Its Investment In The CW To Be Mostly Funded By Proceeds From Sale Of Chicago Property To Casino Developer Related Story Kelly Kahl To Depart As CBS Entertainment President After 26 Years At Broadcast Network
CBS president and CEO George Cheeks used the “restructuring and streamlining” language in his memos yesterday announcing the exits of Kelly Kahl, a 26-year CBS veteran,...
- 11/17/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
CBS has a new entertainment president.
Former head of current Amy Reisenbach has been tapped to replace Kelly Kahl atop the broadcast network. As part of the changes at the broadcast network, senior vp programming Thom Sherman — who many expected to take over for Kahl and run CBS — is stepping down from his role and has signed a sizable producing deal with the network’s studio counterpart, CBS Studios.
The changes come as part of what CBS CEO George Cheeks described as part of a “restructuring and streamlining of leadership” at CBS Entertainment. The executive changes will go into effect in January, when Kahl’s 26-year CBS tenure concludes. Cheeks and Sherman both addressed the changes via internal memos to staff (read both, below). Reisenbach will report to Cheeks and oversee primetime, daytime and late night creative departments at the CBS Television Network,...
CBS has a new entertainment president.
Former head of current Amy Reisenbach has been tapped to replace Kelly Kahl atop the broadcast network. As part of the changes at the broadcast network, senior vp programming Thom Sherman — who many expected to take over for Kahl and run CBS — is stepping down from his role and has signed a sizable producing deal with the network’s studio counterpart, CBS Studios.
The changes come as part of what CBS CEO George Cheeks described as part of a “restructuring and streamlining of leadership” at CBS Entertainment. The executive changes will go into effect in January, when Kahl’s 26-year CBS tenure concludes. Cheeks and Sherman both addressed the changes via internal memos to staff (read both, below). Reisenbach will report to Cheeks and oversee primetime, daytime and late night creative departments at the CBS Television Network,...
- 11/16/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
Another broadcast network president is out.
Kelly Kahl, who has been with CBS for nearly three decades, is stepping down from his role as entertainment president at the network. Kahl will exit at year’s end as part of what CBS CEO George Cheeks described as part of a “restructuring and streamlining of leadership” at CBS Entertainment. A replacement for Kahl has not yet been determined.
The news was announced Wednesday morning with both Kahl and Cheeks sending memos to staff. Read both below.
The news comes as a surprise given Kahl’s longtime history with CBS and after he was tapped to serve as entertainment president at the network following Glenn Geller in 2017. The longtime Les Moonves exec — he came with him to CBS after serving as a research exec at Warner Bros. TV — rose to the top after rising to run scheduling for the network.
Another broadcast network president is out.
Kelly Kahl, who has been with CBS for nearly three decades, is stepping down from his role as entertainment president at the network. Kahl will exit at year’s end as part of what CBS CEO George Cheeks described as part of a “restructuring and streamlining of leadership” at CBS Entertainment. A replacement for Kahl has not yet been determined.
The news was announced Wednesday morning with both Kahl and Cheeks sending memos to staff. Read both below.
The news comes as a surprise given Kahl’s longtime history with CBS and after he was tapped to serve as entertainment president at the network following Glenn Geller in 2017. The longtime Les Moonves exec — he came with him to CBS after serving as a research exec at Warner Bros. TV — rose to the top after rising to run scheduling for the network.
- 11/16/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Waiting to get the very final word on DC’s Stargirl‘s ultimately sad, sad fate was an “emotional roller coaster,” says series lead Brec Bassinger.
The news that the superhero team-up series’ current season would be its last came on Oct. 31, less than a week after it was announced that The CW’s Nancy Drew will be entering its final season in 2023 (as will The Flash and Riverdale).
More from TVLineStargirl Recap: The Town 'Voyeur' Is Revealed -- Plus, Who Died?Gotham Knights: Grey's and Stitchers Alums Join CW DC SeriesThe CW: 'A Couple of Shows' May Survive Into...
The news that the superhero team-up series’ current season would be its last came on Oct. 31, less than a week after it was announced that The CW’s Nancy Drew will be entering its final season in 2023 (as will The Flash and Riverdale).
More from TVLineStargirl Recap: The Town 'Voyeur' Is Revealed -- Plus, Who Died?Gotham Knights: Grey's and Stitchers Alums Join CW DC SeriesThe CW: 'A Couple of Shows' May Survive Into...
- 11/9/2022
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
Click here to read the full article.
Nexstar Media Group reiterated its guidance of making The CW profitable by 2025, which it said will require a “low nine-figure” investment over that time period.
The TV station group officially took over The CW on Oct. 1. Existing CW programming is in place for the 2022-23 broadcast season, Nexstar management told investors Tuesday. After that, the company said it will move to more of a mix of scripted and unscripted content and shows that “appeal to a broader audience.”
“Over the course of the next year, we’re really working to develop our slate, which will then come online in the 2023-24 broadcast season. We will have some carryover commitment for the CBS and Wbd programming in that year, but it’s minimal at that point,” said Lee Ann Gliha, Nexstar’s executive vice president and chief financial officer.
Given the timeline, the majority...
Nexstar Media Group reiterated its guidance of making The CW profitable by 2025, which it said will require a “low nine-figure” investment over that time period.
The TV station group officially took over The CW on Oct. 1. Existing CW programming is in place for the 2022-23 broadcast season, Nexstar management told investors Tuesday. After that, the company said it will move to more of a mix of scripted and unscripted content and shows that “appeal to a broader audience.”
“Over the course of the next year, we’re really working to develop our slate, which will then come online in the 2023-24 broadcast season. We will have some carryover commitment for the CBS and Wbd programming in that year, but it’s minimal at that point,” said Lee Ann Gliha, Nexstar’s executive vice president and chief financial officer.
Given the timeline, the majority...
- 11/8/2022
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Newly installed DC Studios co-ceo James Gunn has heard your calls to save TV’s Legends of Tomorrow, #TheAyerCut of 2016’s Suicide Squad film and other projects. But right now, his and Peter Safran’s focus is on “the story going forward, hammering out the new Dcu.”
On Nov. 1, filmmaker Gunn and longtime producing partner Safran officially stepped into their new roles as co-chairmen and CEOs of DC Studios (fka DC Films), where they oversee “the overall creative direction of the storied superhero franchise across film, TV, and animation under a new, unified banner.”
More from TVLineJames Gunn, Peter Safran...
On Nov. 1, filmmaker Gunn and longtime producing partner Safran officially stepped into their new roles as co-chairmen and CEOs of DC Studios (fka DC Films), where they oversee “the overall creative direction of the storied superhero franchise across film, TV, and animation under a new, unified banner.”
More from TVLineJames Gunn, Peter Safran...
- 11/6/2022
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
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