Variety

Variety in the News

• Aug 26, 2026
  AI & Video

  Google and AWS join Busan Market to showcase InnoAsia generative AI tools

  The Asian Contents & Film Market's InnoAsia 2026 program will feature participation from AWS, Google DeepMind, and Kling AI to showcase generative AI tools for cinema, localization, and virtual production. The event highlights the intersection of emerging technology and content production, including a focus on the $18 billion microdrama market.

• Aug 26, 2026
  Business

  Sky ITV acquisition preserves commissioning strategy and public service mandates through 2028

  ITV managing director Kevin Lygo confirmed that the broadcaster's commissioning strategy will remain unchanged through 2028 as it awaits regulatory approval for its acquisition by Sky. The deal mandates that Sky must uphold ITV's public service broadcasting license requirements, including news and independent production spending, through 2034.

• Aug 26, 2026
  Ad Tech

  X launches NFL Gametime feed to secure brand-safe sports ad inventory

  X has launched 'NFL Gametime,' a dedicated feed integrating real-time scores, statistics, and curated content alongside standard user feeds. The initiative, which runs through the 2027 Super Bowl, is designed to provide a brand-safe environment to attract advertisers to the platform's sports-focused inventory.

• Aug 26, 2026
  Ad Tech

  GameSquare Hatchet rebrand adds AI search to creator marketing analytics

  GameSquare has rebranded its livestreaming measurement tool Stream Hatchet to Hatchet, expanding the platform into a full-service creator marketing and analytics suite. The updated platform integrates AI-driven search and cross-platform data from TikTok, X, and Instagram to assist brands in tracking campaign performance and creator ROI.

• Aug 25, 2026
  Business

  Sam Register Warner Bros. departure leaves animation leadership void after 18 years

  Sam Register is stepping down as president of Warner Bros. Animation, Cartoon Network Studios, and Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe after 18 years. Warner Bros. TV Group chair Channing Dungey has initiated a search for a successor while current creative department heads manage daily operations.

• Aug 22, 2026
  Business

  Paramount and California AG to discuss Paramount Warner merger settlement

  Paramount and the California Attorney General are scheduled to meet to discuss a potential settlement regarding the proposed $111 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. The state is seeking structural remedies to address antitrust concerns related to market consolidation in theatrical distribution and cable programming.

• Aug 21, 2026
  Policy

  Take-Two issues GTA 6 leaks subpoena to Microsoft and Discord

  Take-Two Interactive has filed federal subpoenas against Microsoft and Discord to identify individuals responsible for leaking unauthorized gameplay footage of Grand Theft Auto 6. The legal action, initiated under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, seeks to protect intellectual property ahead of the game's upcoming November launch.

• Aug 21, 2026
  Ad Tech

  Amazon Creator Services expansion integrates YouTube and Twitch for brand scale

  Amazon is expanding its Creator Services initiative to integrate content from platforms like Twitch and YouTube with its e-commerce infrastructure. The program aims to provide brands with scalable ad buying and closed-loop measurement tools by leveraging the connection between creators and their fan communities.

• Aug 21, 2026
  Policy

  Kathleen Kennedy and Hollywood leaders release Human Generative Workflows framework

  A coalition of Hollywood industry leaders has released the 'Human Generative Workflows' framework to establish a common vocabulary for AI integration in film production. The document aims to distinguish between AI tools that assist human creativity and those that replace it, addressing concerns regarding authorship and copyrightability.

• Aug 21, 2026
  Business

  Vertical media revenue to hit $150 billion as platforms battle saturation

  A new report from Owl & Co. projects the global vertical media market outside of China will reach $150 billion in 2026, with advertising driving the vast majority of revenue. While the sector is experiencing rapid growth, the report notes a trend of diminishing returns as content volume increases and platforms face high customer acquisition costs.