LISTEN: ‘Wicked: For Good’ Soars to Fourth-Highest Opening of 2025; HBO Preps for Busy 2026 Amid Warner Bros. Discovery M&A Drama
In the latest episode of the “Daily Variety” podcast, hosts Rebecca Rubin and Jennifer Maas delve into the significant developments in the film and television industry, focusing on Universal Pictures’ ambitious decision to split the highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway hit “Wicked” into two parts. This bold move, initially met with skepticism, has proven to be a lucrative gamble for the studio. By releasing “Wicked” in two installments, Universal not only capitalized on the immense popularity of the source material but also created a buzz that has translated into a record-breaking box office haul. The podcast discusses how this strategy mirrors successful practices in the industry, where franchises and adaptations often see greater financial returns through multi-part releases. Rubin highlights that this approach allows for deeper storytelling and character development, giving audiences a richer cinematic experience while maximizing the film’s commercial potential.
Meanwhile, Maas provides insights into the current atmosphere at HBO as its parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery, prepares for potential sale discussions again. The podcast reveals that the mood among HBO executives and staff is a mix of uncertainty and cautious optimism, as the network navigates the complexities of ownership transitions and market dynamics. With Warner Bros. Discovery’s financial strategies under scrutiny, Maas discusses how this situation could impact HBO’s creative direction and programming decisions. The podcast emphasizes the importance of stability in leadership and vision for HBO, a network that has historically thrived on innovative storytelling and high-quality productions. As the entertainment landscape evolves, the insights shared in this episode shed light on the challenges and opportunities facing major studios and networks, making it a must-listen for industry professionals and fans alike.
On today’s episode of “Daily Variety” podcast, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin unpacks Universal Pictures’ risky decision to break “Wicked” in two parts, and how it paid off with a record haul. And Jennifer Maas gives us an update on the mood at HBO as parent company Warner Bros. Discovery slides into sale mode yet again. More […]
