warner bros discovery This week, employees, especially those on the cable network side, faced layoffs again.
furlough to be influenced The company’s vast portfolio of cable TV networks includes Discovery Channel, Investigative Discovery and Food Network. The Turner Classic Movie Channel was also affected, resulting in a major shift in leadership and causing concern among moviegoers and film preservationists.
Known as TCM, the network is recognized as a place to store classic films and a curated line-up of guest introductions, documentaries and non-English films. Its work includes movies and shows included in Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max streaming app.
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav was inspired by the network’s transformation to reach out to top filmmakers. Filmmaker Steven Spielberg, a treasure trove of Hollywood masterpieces, including “Schindler’s List.” And Paul Thomas Anderson, who produced critically acclaimed hits like “There Will Be Blood,” reassured them that the essence of TCM would not change under new leadership.
“Turner Classic Movies has always been more than just a channel. “And while it has never been financially huge, it has always been a profitable undertaking since its inception.”
Scorsese, Spielberg, and Anderson added that Mr. Zaslav had been in touch about restructuring TCM, and each had spent time talking with the CEO individually and as a group, adding that “and TCM and classic films are the same.” It is clear that it is very important to him.Our main purpose” is to ensure that TCM’s programs remain unaltered and protected. ”
Directed by Steven Spielberg.
Gilbert Flores | Variety | Getty Images
In April, Spielberg and Anderson discussed film preservation efforts at the TCM Classic Film Festival. Zaslav joins the stage, According to media reports.
A representative for Warner Bros. Discovery declined to comment other than to refer to the filmmaker’s statement.
The merger of Warner Bros. and Discovery in 2022 will create the largest portfolio of cable TV networks under one roof at a time when consumers are opting for streaming services and drastic code reductions. bottom. The merger comes at a time when major streaming platforms like Netflix are starting to hit a plateau in subscriber numbers and shift their focus from growth to profitability.
Warner Bros. Discovery has been plagued with large merger debt and has been looking for ways to cut costs. The company has taken a number of layoffs (thousands of employees will lose their jobs), as well as other measures such as reducing content spending.
Additionally, the company recently rebranded its flagship streaming service to Max, which combines Discovery+ and HBO Max content. The service features content from the company’s cable TV networks, including TCM.
Scorsese, Spielberg and Anderson said in a statement: “We have been encouraged and encouraged by our conversations thus far, and are committed to working together to ensure the continuation of this cultural touchstone that we all hold so dear. I will do my best,” he said.