Entertainment

Drew Barrymore, The Talk, Even Bill Maher Reverse Scab Plans Amidst Strikes on September 18, 2023 at 9:02 pm The Hollywood Gossip

Published

1 year ago

September 18, 2023

This summer, we have witnessed entertainment industry event that the world has not seen in generations.

Both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA are striking amidst unthinkable corporate cheating. Executives are paying themselves tens of millions, while using streaming loopholes to pay minuscule residuals to the people who actually make TV and film.

It’s unsustainable. And there are many other issues that desperately need addressing.

Amidst all of this, a few clowns decided to resume their shows — scabbing during the strike. Sadly, Drew Barrymore was among them. Now, at least, she has reversed course and offered a heartfelt apology.

In September of 2023, Drew Barrymore posted an “apology” video to Instagram. She apologized to writers and actors for returning to her show during the historic WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes … but, at the time, still planned to scab. (Instagram)

Please, don’t scab

Last week, The Drew Barrymore Show resumed — an apparent violation of the work stoppage.

Years ago, talk shows could continue in some form during strikes, lining the pockets of networks without their usual content. Those rules have since changed.

Reports came out, describing Barrymore’s security expelling studio audience members who wore strike-related materials.

Patricia Clarkson joins SAG-AFTRA members on the picket line outside of Warner Bros. Discovery on August 10, 2023 in New York. The Emmy Awards have been postponed by almost four months, organizers said Thursday, as crippling strikes by Hollywood’s actors and writers drag on with no resolution in sight. (Getty)

Simply put, the whole point of any sort of strike — such as the one that America’s courageous auto workers recently authorized — is for the people who actually create goods and services and art that generate profit to bargain collectively.

Only a small percentage of actors are millionaires or more. Even a smaller percentage of writers are. The vast majority of SAG-AFTRA actors don’t even make as much as your average first-year teacher.

People who create value should then receive financial compensation for their labor and ingenuity. But with massive companies obsessed with golden parachutes and stockholders, it has become a game of cheating them out of their due.

Drew Barrymore speaks onstage during American Film InstituteÂs 44th Life Achievement Award Gala Tribute show to John Williams at Dolby Theatre on June 9, 2016 (Getty)

We were ALL rooting for you!

Crossing the picket line — literally or metaphorically — hurts strikers. It also, by extension, hurts most Americans.

So when Drew Barrymore, or The Talk, or whatever Bill Maher’s god-awful show is called … when they start filming despite a work stoppage, it helps these corporate behemoths to avoid paying people what they owe them.

In case anyone wondered how valuable actors and writers actually are, Warner Bros Discovery projected a loss of $500 million for 2023. That’s bad, even under Zaslav’s leadership. Agreeing to the guilds’ terms would have cost a fraction of that.

Bill Maher attends the Los Angeles Premiere of LBJ at ArcLight Hollywood on October 24, 2017. (Getty)

No one was rooting for Maher

Long story short, it sucked to hear that Barrymore was filming with scabs instead of her own writers. People felt disappointed in her.

Everyone expected this from Maher. He is a notoriously awful person who will almost invariably take the wrong stance on most issues.

The backlash was intense. And while it was a great opportunity to dunk on Maher, it was a time to bite the bullet and call out Barrymore.

Drew Barrymore attends the 2023 Time100 Gala at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 26, 2023. (Getty)

Two apologies: a hit and a miss

Late last week, she put out an apology … but did not signal her intent to change course. That was, obviously, not enough.

Now, Barrymore is showing that she has listened to and understood people’s concerns.

“I have listened to everyone, and I am making the decision to pause the show’s premiere until the strike is over,” she wrote on Instagram. Absolutely, it is a good thing that she has listened. We’re sure that many friends reached out to her.

“I have listened to everyone, and I am making the decision to pause the showâs premiere until the strike is over,” Drew Barrymore announced on Instagram, reversing her plans to scab during the historic 2023 WGA/SAG-AFTRA strikes. (Instagram)

“I have no words to express my deepest apologies to anyone I have hurt,” Barrymore continued.

“And, of course,” Barrymore acknowledged, “to our incredible team who works on the show and has made it what it is today.”

Oddly, she wrote: “We really tried to find our way forward.”

John Oliver, winner of the Outstanding Variety Talk Series award for ‘Last Week Tonight with John Oliver’, poses in the press room during the 74th Primetime Emmys. (Getty)

Barrymore affirmed: “And I truly hope for a resolution for the entire industry very soon.”

Previously, she had explained that she was trying to resume work to save the jobs of other people.

For the record, other talk show hosts have formed a podcast, Strike Force Five, to earn money to pay their writers and crews.

Bill Maher often says what’s on his mind. But this has gotten the comedian in trouble a lot over the years. (Getty)

Like we said, a lot of people felt disappointed in Drew Barrymore. Reversing course was the right thing to do, and it’s a relief.

What’s really a sign of the incredible upswell in public opinion is that The Talk and Bill Maher are also reacting to the backlash. Both halted plans to resume business as usual.

As many on social media observed, if Maher is caving, public pressure is an effective tool.

David Zaslav, President and CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, attends a premiere in May 2023. Many have dubbed him “the most hated man” in the entertainment industry, and with good reason. (Getty)

There’s only one group of people who can end these strikes, and they’re executives in charge of some of the biggest entertainment industry corporations on the planet.

Instead, many executives planned vacations for this year. Companies have pushed film releases to next year — to a post-strike time when actors can promote their projects.

They can end the strikes by agreeing to reasonable terms from SAG-AFTRA and the WGA. Instead, it appears from the outside that they’d rather continue to lose money out of spite.

Drew Barrymore, The Talk, Even Bill Maher Reverse Scab Plans Amidst Strikes was originally published on The Hollywood Gossip.

This summer, we have witnessed entertainment industry event that the world has not seen in generations. Both the WGA and …
Drew Barrymore, The Talk, Even Bill Maher Reverse Scab Plans Amidst Strikes was originally published on The Hollywood Gossip.

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Advice

How to Balance Automation and Authenticity in Brand Messaging

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Bolanle Media Staff

The Challenge of Modern Marketing

In today’s digital landscape, brands face a complex challenge: leveraging the power of automation while maintaining authentic connections with their audience. This delicate balance is not just a marketing tactic, but a fundamental business imperative that can make or break customer relationships in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

The Promise and Peril of Automation

Automation has revolutionized content creation and distribution, offering unprecedented efficiency and scalability. AI-powered tools can analyze vast amounts of data to generate personalized content, schedule posts with pinpoint accuracy, and streamline repetitive tasks that once consumed valuable human resources. This technological leap allows marketers to focus on high-level strategy and creativity, potentially transforming the entire marketing ecosystem. However, the allure of automation comes with a significant risk: the production of generic, impersonal content that fails to resonate with audiences craving genuine interactions.

The Importance of Authenticity

Authenticity remains the cornerstone of effective brand messaging, a truth that has only intensified in the digital age. Consumers have developed a keen sense for detecting scripted or disconnected content, and they actively seek out brands that offer genuine, value-driven interactions. This desire for authenticity goes beyond mere preference; it’s a fundamental expectation that drives long-term loyalty and advocacy. Brands that successfully maintain an authentic voice build trust and emotional connections with their customers, creating a resilient foundation for sustainable growth.

Defining Brand Identity

The key to striking the right balance lies in a strategic approach that begins with a clear definition of brand voice, values, and messaging strategy. This foundational work serves as a guiding light for the implementation of automation tools, ensuring that all generated content aligns seamlessly with the brand’s authentic identity. Human oversight becomes crucial in this process; marketers must review and refine automated content, injecting nuance, emotional resonance, and contextual relevance that AI alone cannot provide.

Personalization Without Invasion

Personalization emerges as a critical factor in maintaining authenticity within automated messaging systems. By leveraging data insights to tailor content to individual preferences and behaviors, brands can create experiences that feel uniquely relevant to each customer. However, this personalization must be executed with care, avoiding the pitfalls of invasive or misleading practices that can erode trust. The most successful brands find ways to combine automated processes with genuine human interactions, especially for complex customer inquiries or sensitive issues that require empathy and nuanced understanding.

The Need for Continuous Evaluation

Ultimately, successful brand messaging in the age of automation demands a dynamic, ever-evolving approach. Marketers must continuously evaluate and adjust their strategies, conducting rigorous A/B testing and staying attuned to audience feedback. This iterative process allows brands to refine their automation tools and techniques while preserving the human touch that gives their messaging authenticity and impact.

Creating Synergy Between Automation and Authenticity

By thoughtfully integrating automation while steadfastly preserving authentic human elements, brands can create a powerful synergy. This balanced approach enables the creation of efficient, scalable, and genuinely engaging content that resonates deeply with target audiences. In doing so, brands not only meet the expectations of today’s discerning consumers but also position themselves for long-term success in an increasingly automated world.

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Advice

How to Win Gen Z Hearts with Purpose-Driven Content

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Bolanle Media Staff

The Purpose Revolution: Why Gen Z Demands More Than Just Products

Gen Z isn’t just a demographic; they represent a purpose-powered generation that views consumption as a form of activism. Unlike previous generations, they don’t merely buy products; they invest in movements, ideologies, and brands that authentically reflect their worldview. Research indicates that 75% of Gen Z will actively boycott or support brands based on their social and environmental stances, making purpose not just a marketing strategy but a fundamental business imperative. This generation seeks to align their purchasing decisions with their values, demanding transparency and accountability from the brands they choose to support.

Decoding Gen Z’s Value Ecosystem: Beyond Surface-Level Activism

To effectively engage with Gen Z, brands must delve deep into the intricacies of their value system. This generation has grown up with unprecedented access to global information, witnessing climate crises, social movements, and systemic inequalities in real-time. Their values encompass environmental sustainability, social justice and equity, mental health awareness, digital privacy, ethical technology, and economic transparency. Brands that attempt to superficially check diversity boxes or create performative content will quickly be exposed and rejected by this discerning audience. Authenticity isn’t just preferred; it’s expected. For Gen Z, actions speak louder than words, and they can easily discern when a brand is being disingenuous.

The Content Architecture: Crafting Meaningful Digital Narratives

Creating compelling content for Gen Z requires a multi-dimensional approach that emphasizes visual storytelling and emotional intelligence. Effective narratives often take the form of 90-second video stories that engage viewers with relatable characters and authentic experiences. Behind-the-scenes glimpses into a brand’s operations can foster transparency and trust. Furthermore, integrating user-generated content allows for a more participatory media landscape where consumers feel like active contributors rather than passive viewers. Emotional intelligence in brand communication is equally crucial; acknowledging systemic challenges while showcasing genuine commitment to change resonates deeply with this audience. Highlighting real human stories—those of individuals impacted by social issues—can create powerful connections that transcend traditional marketing.

Strategic Collaboration: Amplifying Impact Through Authentic Partnerships

In today’s landscape, Gen Z values collective action over individualistic approaches. Brands must evolve beyond transactional influencer marketing to forge meaningful collaborations that result in tangible social impact. This involves partnering with grassroots organizations and supporting emerging social entrepreneurs whose missions align with the brand’s values. By creating platforms for marginalized voices and developing transparent impact metrics, brands can amplify their efforts and demonstrate genuine commitment to social change. Such collaborations not only enhance brand credibility but also foster community engagement and loyalty among Gen Z consumers.

Measurement and Accountability: The New Marketing Paradigm

Engaging with Gen Z through purpose-driven content is not merely about creating impactful narratives; it also requires demonstrating measurable change. This generation expects brands to publish comprehensive sustainability reports that outline their environmental impact and share concrete diversity and inclusion metrics that highlight progress in these areas. Continuous learning and adaptation are vital; brands must be willing to evolve based on feedback from their audience. Establishing transparent feedback mechanisms allows consumers to voice their opinions while holding brands accountable for their commitments.

The Transformation Imperative

Ultimately, connecting with Gen Z is not just a marketing tactic; it represents a fundamental transformation within businesses themselves. Brands must reimagine their identities as purpose-driven entities that contribute meaningfully to societal progress rather than simply selling products. The companies poised for success are those that create movements, empower communities, and redefine what business can represent in the 21st century. By embracing purpose-driven content that aligns with Gen Z’s values, brands can forge lasting connections with this influential generation, fostering loyalty and engagement in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Entertainment

MrBeast’s Epic $5M Amazon Prime Show

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Bolanle Media Staff

On December 19, 2024, the highly anticipated reality competition series “Beast Games” premiered on Amazon Prime Video, marking a significant milestone in the career of YouTube sensation Jimmy “MrBeast” Donaldson. This new show is a culmination of Donaldson’s signature style of extreme challenges and generous prizes, now brought to a broader audience through Amazon’s streaming platform.

The Concept and Prize

“Beast Games” features an unprecedented 1,000 contestants competing over 10 episodes for the largest cash prize in television history – a staggering $5 million. The show is designed to push participants to their limits through a series of physical and mental challenges, many of which are reminiscent of the extreme stunts and giveaways that have made MrBeast a household name on YouTube.

Production and Controversy

The production of “Beast Games” has been marred by controversy. Several contestants filed a class-action lawsuit in September, alleging workplace abuses including unpaid wages and sexual harassment during filming. These allegations have cast a shadow over the show’s launch, despite Donaldson’s efforts to address the concerns and ensure a safe and fair environment for all participants.

Promotional Tour and Hype

In the lead-up to the premiere, MrBeast embarked on a multiplatform promotional tour, appearing on popular podcasts, collaborating with esports teams like FaZe Clan, and even hosting live streams on Twitch. One notable event included bringing $5 million to Times Square to visually illustrate the grand prize, generating significant buzz and excitement among fans.

Episode Release Schedule

The first two episodes of “Beast Games” were released on December 19, 2024, with subsequent episodes set to be released weekly. Here is a brief overview of the initial episodes:

Episode 1: “1,000 People Fight for $5,000,000” – Contestants enter an arena and face their first challenges.
Episode 2: “500 People Trapped In My City” – The number of contestants is halved, and the remaining participants navigate a new city built by MrBeast’s team.

Unique Elements and Collaborations

“Beast Games” is not just a competition; it’s an immersive experience. The show features elaborate sets, including a city built from scratch, and challenges that range from monster trucks to helicopter jumps. Additionally, MrBeast has collaborated with other brands and platforms, such as Roblox, where fans can participate in challenges mirroring those on the show.

Viewing and Engagement

Fans can watch “Beast Games” exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, available with a basic subscription. The show is also promoted through various Amazon services, including Amazon Fresh, which is distributing “Beast Games”-branded bags in major cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

Conclusion

“Beast Games” represents a new frontier for MrBeast, transitioning his unique brand of entertainment from YouTube to a major streaming platform. Despite the controversies surrounding its production, the show promises to deliver high-energy challenges, massive prizes, and an engaging viewing experience. As the series unfolds, it will be interesting to see how audiences respond to this ambitious project and whether it will cement MrBeast’s status as a television personality as well as a YouTube sensation.