Paramount Claim There's No Plan To Sell Cable Assets

The Paramount Skydance merger with Warner Bros. Discovery, announced after a heated bidding war, will create a major media powerhouse valued at approximately $110 billion (with Paramount paying $31 per share for Warner Bros. Discovery). The combined entity will carry about $79 billion in net debt, Paramount disclosed on Monday, with no plans to divest or spin off cable networks.

Reuters reports Paramount CEO David Ellison revealed the details in an analyst call following the deal's signing on Friday. The merger unites the companies' streaming services into one platform, serving over 200 million direct-to-consumer subscribers across more than 100 regions. This scale is intended to better compete against dominant player Netflix.

The deal combines extensive cable and broadcast assets, including Paramount's CBS, MTV, Comedy Central, and BET with Warner's CNN, HBO, TNT, and Food Network. It also merges one of Hollywood's deepest content libraries, featuring franchises like Game of Thrones, Mission: Impossible, Harry Potter, Top Gun, the DC Universe, and SpongeBob SquarePants.

The merged company expects to produce at least 30 theatrical films per year while preserving both Warner Bros. and Paramount studios as distinct entities.

The transaction ended a months-long contest where Netflix initially agreed in December to acquire Warner Bros. assets (excluding cable networks) for $27.75 per share, or about $82.7 billion. Paramount's superior bid prompted Warner's board to favor it, leading Netflix to decline matching and step back. Paramount paid Warner's $2.8 billion termination fee to Netflix. The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals and shareholder vote.

Competition concerns have emerged, with California Attorney General Rob Bonta announcing a vigorous state investigation. Cinema operators warn of potential job losses and fewer theatrical releases. However, the merger is anticipated to gain European Union antitrust approval with only minor divestments likely, per reports. Some analysts note Paramount's ties—via David Ellison and his father, billionaire Larry Ellison—to the Trump administration could aid favorable regulatory outcomes.

Austin TV: Reporter Refuses Directive To Not Cover Pro-Trump Rally

A CBS Austin reporter went viral on March 1, 2026, after publicly defying a superior's instruction during a live broadcast to downplay coverage of a large pro-Trump demonstration at the Texas State Capitol.

The reporter Matt Yurus received a text message from his boss directing him not to focus on the massive size or enthusiasm of the crowd, which had gathered to support President Trump's recent U.S. military strikes on Iran, including actions that targeted leadership and reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

On air, the reporter read the message aloud, stating: “They don't want us to focus on this.” He then replied defiantly, “Alright. Well, I am,” and continued highlighting the rally's scale and supportive chants, including praise for the U.S. and allied actions against the Iranian regime.

BREAKING - A CBS reporter in Austin, Texas, is being massively praised after refusing to follow a text message from his superior telling him not to focus on a massive crowd praising President Trump’s actions in Iran.

“They don’t want us to focus on this.”

“Well, I am.” pic.twitter.com/Pll2AJgXjp

— Right Angle News Network (@Rightanglenews) March 1, 2026

The moment, captured in viral video clips shared widely on X and other platforms, drew widespread praise from viewers who called it an act of principled journalism and resistance against perceived attempts to suppress positive coverage of the events. Supporters described the reporter as a "hero" for prioritizing the story and public interest over editorial directives.

The demonstration itself featured pro-Trump crowds, including Iranian-Americans, cheering the strikes as a bold move against the regime. The incident highlighted tensions in media coverage amid politically charged reactions to the U.S. actions. CBS has not publicly commented on the exchange or any potential repercussions for the reporter.

The Paramount Skydance Portfolio

David Ellison

Larry and David Ellison's Paramount Skydance has emerged victorious in a heated bidding war, securing a definitive agreement to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery in a deal valued at approximately $110 billion (with Paramount paying $31 per share in cash). 

The merger, announced Friday after Warner Bros. deemed Paramount's revised bid superior and Netflix withdrew, would create one of the world's largest media empires—if it gains regulatory and shareholder approval, expected potentially in Q3 2026.

The combination would unite Paramount (including CBS, Paramount+, and franchises like Mission: Impossible and Star Trek) with Warner Bros. Discovery's assets, adding HBO, CNN, HBO Max (with nearly 130 million subscribers), thousands of iconic films, and a vast cable network portfolio.

The companies described the merger as creating a "Hollywood champion" that would boost consumer choice and opportunities for creative talent and labor.

Key assets the Ellisons would control include:

• Streaming: HBO Max (fourth-largest streamer) and Paramount+ (fifth-largest, with 79 million subscribers). It's unclear if they will merge platforms or keep them separate with bundle options, similar to Disney's approach with Disney+ and Hulu. Experts suggest separate platforms with package deals to gain market share without immediate price hikes, especially to attract international subscribers where Paramount+ is weaker.
• News: CNN (with over 3,000 employees, including anchors like Anderson Cooper, Kaitlan Collins, and Jake Tapper) joining CBS. This has raised concerns among CNN staff about editorial independence, given the Ellisons' ties to Trump and their prior appointment of Bari Weiss to infuse more conservative voices at CBS News. Reports indicate fears of potential influence or changes.
• Movies and Studios: A massive film library rivaling Disney's, combining Warner Bros.' Harry Potter, Batman, The Lord of the Rings, The Wizard of Oz, and Gone With the Wind with Paramount classics like The Godfather and Chinatown. The deal adds Warner Bros.' 110-acre Burbank lot (with over 30 soundstages) to Paramount's Hollywood facilities. Industry observers warn this consolidation could reduce major buyers for talent, potentially impacting production quality, though short-term theatrical releases may remain unchanged.
• Cable TV and Programming: A huge lineup including Paramount's MTV, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, and BET; plus Warner's Discovery networks (HGTV, Food Network, TLC), Adult Swim, Cartoon Network, TBS, TNT, and Turner Classic Movies. HBO classics like Game of Thrones, The Sopranos, Sex and the City, and Veep would also join.
• Sports: Enhanced rights combining CBS's NFL, NCAA March Madness, and Masters coverage with TNT's MLB, NHL, NASCAR, additional NCAA events, US Soccer, US Open, and Wimbledon tennis.

Employees at both companies are bracing for potential layoffs, with reports of anxiety and hopes for voluntary buyouts to avoid deeper cuts. Paramount did not immediately respond to inquiries.

The Ellisons, with Larry (Oracle co-founder and TikTok US investor) providing major financial backing and David leading as CEO, transformed Skydance from a smaller player into a Hollywood powerhouse after its 2025 Paramount merger. They outmaneuvered Netflix, which had an earlier $27.75-per-share deal for WBD's studio and streaming assets but declined to match the higher offer amid regulatory and competitive concerns.

The deal faces scrutiny, including from state attorneys general.

Unlocking Revenue Growth With Adults 25–64

The advertising industry's long-standing Adults 25–54 demographic target for radio ads is outdated and overdue for expansion to Adults 25–64, according to a new analysis by Audacy Senior Director of Research & Insights Reggie Shah.

Expanding the range adds 31% more reach—growing the national radio audience from 107 million to 140 million adults and adding 33 million people—while increasing total listening by 48%, without diluting audience quality or income levels.

Audacy's effectiveness research shows the broader 25–64 target delivers a four-point lift in conversion among exposed listeners. “Conversion is where business impact becomes tangible,” said Ray Borelli, SVP of Research and Insights at Audacy. “A 4% lift at scale translates into measurable revenue, not just awareness.”

This shift aligns with modern demographic realities: Major life milestones now occur later, with the median first-time homebuyer age at 40 and any homebuyer at 59. Labor force participation among 55–64-year-olds has risen sharply over recent decades, and retirement ages continue climbing. Adults 55–64 represent 17.8% of U.S. households but nearly 20% of both income and spending—making them a financially dominant group, not a declining one.

Netflix CEO: We Knew What We Were Gonna Do

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, in his first interview since Netflix withdrew its bid for Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) in late February, emphasized that the decision was driven purely by financial discipline, not politics or regulatory issues.

Netflix stuck to a pre-set price ceiling and quickly walked away when Paramount Skydance submitted a superior offer with stronger financing guarantees. “We knew right away, when we got the notice on Thursday that they had a superior offer and the details of that deal,” Sarandos told Bloomberg. 

“We knew exactly what we were gonna do.”

He dismissed speculation about political pressure or DOJ hostility influencing the move, calling the regulatory review process “completely normal” and stating, “Yeah, we’re in the clear.”

Ted Sarandos

Sarandos described the potential acquisition as a “strategic opportunity” rather than a necessity for Netflix's growth, saying, “We definitely wanted this asset. We didn’t need it.” He reinforced the company's identity as “builders, not buyers,” focused on organic investment over overpaying for deals.

The Netflix leader warned that Paramount Skydance's highly leveraged takeover could lead to aggressive cost-cutting at the combined entity, potentially reducing production volumes and jobs across Hollywood by billions in savings.

Despite past opposition from theater owners during the bidding, Sarandos indicated Netflix remains open to expanding its theatrical presence through future collaborations with cinema chains, saying, “I think we’re gonna find a bunch of cool things to do together going forward.”

For investors, Sarandos framed the withdrawal as a demonstration of strong capital stewardship—Netflix prioritizes disciplined valuation thresholds and will continue growing internally rather than chasing acquisitions at any cost.

Trump Admin Officials MIA From Sunday News Shows

No senior Trump administration officials or cabinet members appeared on Sunday morning television news shows, the day after a major joint U.S.-Israeli military operation in Iran killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

CNN reports the absence stood out given the challenging task of explaining the strikes' rationale and objectives to the American public amid an escalating conflict that has already claimed U.S. lives.

Major networks had made standard — but especially urgent — requests for administration representatives to appear and address the operation. Instead, the White House communications team opted to defer to congressional allies, according to three people familiar with internal discussions. White House communications director Steven Cheung told CNN that cabinet members remained with the President in the Situation Room over the weekend, while allies handled media appearances after a Saturday messaging call to coordinate talking points.

Several Republican senators stepped in to defend the strikes across networks:

• Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) told NBC's "Meet the Press" that the operation's goal was "to change the threat, not the regime."
• Sen. Dave McCormick (R-PA) told "Fox News Sunday" the actions were "totally justified," pointing to intelligence showing Iran's ongoing nuclear work as an "imminent threat" to Americans regionally and globally.
• Other GOP senators who appeared included Ted Cruz, James Lankford, Rick Scott, and Tom Cotton.

🚨 WOW! John Fetterman is REALLY going to bat for President Trump this morning

“You can put out TWEETS and STATEMENTS to support peace, but to actually create REAL peace, you have to do these kinds of actions!

And that's why I support [President Trump’s strikes]… This was the… pic.twitter.com/qzmbOPW5CJ

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) February 28, 2026

The White House Rapid Response social media account amplified clips from these lawmakers and selectively from Democrats, such as:

• Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), who said the strikes did not violate the War Powers Resolution.
• Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), who called Khamenei's death "good for the region, good for the world" — though the White House omitted his added comment that Trump had "started a war of choice" and needed to make the case to Congress and the public.

Later Sunday, President Trump told the Daily Mail in a phone interview that he is "getting ready" to address the nation about the conflict, without providing a timeline.

Good Morning! Let's Check The Pulse for Monday, March 2

Radio Broadcasting

iHeartMedia Releases Q4 2025 and Full-Year 2025 Earnings Results: As the largest U.S. radio broadcaster (operating hundreds of stations and a massive digital audio/podcast portfolio), iHeartMedia issues its quarterly and annual financial results after market close on March 2, 2026, followed by a conference call at 4:30 p.m. ET. Analysts anticipated modest EPS (around $0.10–$0.12) and revenue near $1.1 billion for Q4, with focus on digital audio growth offsetting traditional radio declines, cost-saving initiatives (including AI tools for efficiency), and overall performance amid economic uncertainty. This is a pivotal event for the sector, as iHeartMedia's results often signal trends in ad revenue, listener metrics, and recovery from prior challenges like debt restructuring.

Iran Conflict Boosts News/Talk Radio Listenership and Coverage:  With the war in its third day—including U.S. casualties (three troops killed, more wounded), Iranian retaliatory strikes on Gulf assets, and President Trump's warnings of prolonged operations and likely additional losses—terrestrial and network radio (e.g., NPR hourly updates, Salem Radio Network, FOX News Radio, and local news/talk stations) see heightened real-time demand. Outlets like NPR, WORLD Radio, and others air frequent bulletins, analyses, and call-in segments on the conflict, casualties, potential terrorism links (e.g., the Austin shooting probe), oil price spikes affecting gas prices, and domestic reactions. This drives tune-in for AM/FM news formats but pressures ad budgets from travel/energy sectors amid market volatility.

NAB State Leadership Conference Preparations and Crystal Radio Awards Finalists: The National Association of Broadcasters' (NAB) annual State Leadership Conference is set for March 3, 2026, in Washington, D.C., with radio broadcasters gearing up today for advocacy meetings on Capitol Hill. Discussions focus on ownership rules (e.g., pending 2022 Quadrennial Review outcomes), potential deregulation, and recent legislative pushes like the "Keep It Moving Act" to speed FCC reviews of M&A deals. Additionally, the 50 finalists for the 2026 NAB Crystal Radio Awards (honoring community service) were previously announced, with winners to be revealed at the event—highlighting radio's local impact amid competitive pressures from streaming.

Media Industry

Intense Media Coverage of the Iran Conflict Drives Viewership: Major U.S. outlets like CNN, The New York Times, CBS News, NPR, and Al Jazeera are providing wall-to-wall live updates on the escalating war, including U.S. casualties (three troops killed), Iranian retaliatory strikes on Gulf states (e.g., near U.S. Embassy in Kuwait, disruptions in Dubai/Abu Dhabi/Doha), and Israel's strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon ending a cease-fire. This has boosted ratings and digital traffic for 24/7 news networks and online platforms, with oil price surges (up ~10% to around $78-79/barrel) adding economic angles. However, the conflict disrupts travel and raises safety concerns for journalists in the region, with reports of air travel chaos and potential threats to media personnel embedded or stationed nearby.

U-S News

U.S. and Israel Continue Intense Strikes on Iran; War Widens Regionally:  The joint U.S.-Israeli operation (referred to as "Operation Epic Fury") against Iran persists, with over 2,000 targets hit so far. President Donald Trump stated in interviews that the campaign could last "four to five weeks" (or "four weeks or less" in some reports) to achieve objectives, including regime change, and warned that more U.S. casualties are "likely." Iran has retaliated with missile and drone barrages targeting Israel, U.S. assets in the Gulf (including bases in Kuwait), and cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. Iranian-backed militias have joined the fight, expanding the conflict. Israel struck Hezbollah in Lebanon, ending a yearlong cease-fire after Hezbollah rocket fire. Explosions and attacks have disrupted air travel and raised fears of broader regional involvement.

U.S. Military Casualties Mount: 3 Troops Killed, More Wounded: The U.S. Central Command confirmed three American service members were killed and five seriously wounded in Iranian attacks, primarily at a base in Kuwait (with reports of strikes hitting near the U.S. Embassy compound there). Additional minor injuries occurred from shrapnel and concussions. Several U.S. military aircraft crashed in Kuwait, though all crews reportedly survived. Trump has vowed to "avenge" the fallen and signaled potential for more losses as operations continue.

Public Opinion and Political Reactions to Iran Strikes: A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows low support: only about 27% of Americans approve of the strikes (which killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei), while 43% disapprove. Roughly half believe Trump is too quick to use military force, including some Republicans. Republicans largely back the action despite anti-war elements in the MAGA base; Democrats denounce it but show internal divisions. Trump has expressed openness to talks with Iran's new leadership post-Khamenei but emphasized continued pressure.

Lawmakers Want FCC to Accelerate Acquisitions

Two U.S. House representatives have introduced bipartisan legislation to accelerate FCC reviews of radio station mergers and acquisitions by imposing a strict "shot clock" on the agency's decisions.

The bill, known as the Keep It Moving Act, was introduced by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) and Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) in late February 2026. It would codify and enforce a timeline—generally aligning with the FCC's existing informal 180-day guideline—for the agency to act on license transfer and assignment applications involved in radio M&A deals. 

If the FCC fails to meet the deadline (with limited exceptions), applicants could petition a court to compel action, potentially forcing approval within a short window like 72 hours. Denials or referrals to hearings would require a formal vote by FCC commissioners.

The measure aims to provide greater certainty, predictability, and efficiency in the regulatory process for broadcasters, who often face prolonged delays that hinder transactions and investment.

The legislation arrives at a pivotal moment for the radio industry, as expectations rise for potential deregulation of broadcast ownership caps under the current administration and FCC leadership. The agency is nearing resolution of its long-pending 2022 Quadrennial Review of media ownership rules, which could loosen restrictions on how many stations a single entity can own in a market or nationally. 

If those caps are relaxed, faster FCC reviews would facilitate more consolidation, allowing radio groups to pursue larger deals more quickly and with less regulatory uncertainty.Industry support has been strong. 

NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt endorsed the bill as "common-sense and long-overdue," emphasizing that timely FCC action ensures local broadcasters can receive fair hearings and continue serving communities effectively.

Rep. Pfluger highlighted the bill's alignment with broader FCC modernization efforts led by Chairman Brendan Carr, aimed at encouraging investment, reducing costs, and expanding access in communications.

While the bill focuses on license transfers tied to M&A, its implications could extend to broader broadcast transactions, helping streamline processes amid a shifting regulatory landscape for radio. The proposal reflects ongoing bipartisan interest in reducing administrative delays at the FCC.

Iran War Triggers Weekend Coverage On News Outlets

The assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint U.S.-Israeli airstrike has triggered a dramatic escalation in the Middle East, plunging the region into open conflict and dominating global headlines.

On Saturday, U.S. and Israeli forces launched coordinated strikes targeting key Iranian military sites, nuclear-related facilities, and leadership compounds in Tehran and elsewhere. The operation, supported by intelligence reportedly gathered over months by the CIA, resulted in the confirmed death of Khamenei—along with dozens of other senior officials, including high-ranking Revolutionary Guards commanders and security advisers. 

U.S. President Donald Trump described the strikes as "ahead of schedule" and reported that 48 Iranian leaders were eliminated in the initial wave, while emphasizing ongoing efforts to dismantle Iran's ballistic missile capabilities and air defenses.

Iran responded swiftly and aggressively. On Saturday night and into Sunday, March 1, Iranian forces launched multiple barrages of ballistic missiles and drones targeting Israel directly, as well as U.S. military bases and allied sites across the region—including in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. Strikes hit locations such as Naval Support Activity Bahrain, Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, and Ali Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait, causing fires, structural damage, and civilian impacts in some areas. 

The U.S. military confirmed three American service members killed and five seriously wounded in the exchanges, with air defenses intercepting many incoming projectiles but not all.The conflict has expanded rapidly, with Israel renewing strikes on Tehran and other Iranian targets on Sunday to degrade remaining missile launchers and command structures. 

Casualty figures remain fluid and disputed: 

• Reports indicate over 200 deaths in Iran, at least nine in Israel from Iranian strikes, and additional injuries and damage in Gulf states. 
• Iran has declared 40 days of national mourning for Khamenei and vowed revenge as a "legitimate right," while an interim leadership council has been named amid uncertainty over succession.

This high-stakes crisis has seized worldwide attention, driving unprecedented traffic and viewership for major news organizations. Outlets like Reuters, The New York Times, CNN, The Washington Post, BBC, Al Jazeera, and broadcasters such as NBC and CBS have shifted to wall-to-wall, real-time coverage, with live updates, maps of strike locations, and analysis of potential escalation risks. 

The story tests journalism's ability to report accurately amid fog-of-war conditions, misinformation, and rapidly evolving developments.

Beyond the immediate violence, the events carry profound implications. Correspondents and crews in the region face heightened dangers from ongoing strikes and retaliatory attacks. Newsrooms worldwide are reallocating resources—pulling in additional reporters, analysts, and satellite feeds—to sustain 24/7 coverage. 

Globally, leaders from Europe, Russia, China, and Gulf states have urged de-escalation, warning of unpredictable consequences for regional stability, energy markets, and international security. The killing of Khamenei, who ruled for over 36 years, marks a potential turning point for Iran's regime and the broader Middle East balance of power.

The Athletic Poaches Six Sports Reporters from WaPo

The Athletic has aggressively capitalized on the Washington Post's recent decision to shutter its storied sports desk by hiring six prominent former Post sports journalists, aiming to fill the significant gap in local Washington, D.C. sports coverage.

The hires, announced February 26, 2026, include: 

• Longtime Post columnist and D.C. sports chronicler Barry Svrluga, who will cover the Washington Commanders while also contributing to major national stories
• Spencer Nusbaum, continuing his Nationals beat 
• Award-winning columnist Candace Buckner, moving to a national columnist role
• Ava Wallace, taking on tennis coverage plus women's sports
• Investigative reporter Adam Kilgore, joining The Athletic's new rapid-response investigative unit as a senior writer
• Former Post sports editor Jason Murray, stepping in as deputy editorial director to help oversee daily news across North American sports.

The Athletic's executive editor Steven Ginsberg—himself a former longtime Washington Post editor—framed the moves as a deliberate strategy to step into the void created by the Post's cuts. "For many decades, the Washington Post was the go-to place for sports for Washingtonians," Ginsberg said. 

"That's not an option now, and we want to make sure that people understand that The Athletic can be one." He added that the additions will deliver "unparalleled coverage" of local teams and broader sports interests.

The Washington Post, owned by Jeff Bezos, eliminated its dedicated sports section in early February 2026 as part of sweeping layoffs that affected about one-third of the company's workforce. The move shuttered a traditional powerhouse in local sports journalism, reassigning some reporters to broader cultural or feature roles while ending routine beat coverage of teams like the Commanders, Nationals, Wizards, and Capitals.

The six journalists bring deep institutional knowledge and accolades, including Buckner's recent APSE column wins and Svrluga's more than two decades shaping D.C. sports narratives. Their rapid transition to The Athletic, a subscription-based platform owned by The New York Times, underscores the ongoing industry shift toward specialized digital sports media amid broader challenges for legacy newspapers.

CBS Sports Plus TNT Sports Could Rival ESPN

The impending acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) by Paramount has cleared a major hurdle, positioning CBS Sports and TNT Sports for a likely merger that would create one of the most powerful live sports portfolios in media—second only to ESPN.

Paramount's latest superior bid of $31 per share was deemed better than Netflix's competing offer by WBD's board as of late February 2026, effectively steering the company away from a partial sale to Netflix (which would have spun off cable assets like TNT Sports into a separate entity called Discovery Global) and toward full ownership under Paramount.

This shift makes a combination of CBS Sports and TNT Sports almost inevitable, according to analysis from Awful Announcing. The merged entity would boast an unmatched array of major rights:

• NFL games (including CBS's longstanding Sunday afternoon package)
• March Madness (the full NCAA men's basketball tournament, currently split but with CBS holding primary rights)
• MLB and NHL playoff coverage
• Golf majors like The Masters and the French Open
• UFC
• NASCAR
• Potentially expanded College Football Playoff games

Such a portfolio would rival ESPN's dominance in live sports, combining broadcast reach (via CBS) with cable and additional events (from TNT/TBS/TruTV).

Some TNT properties could shift to CBS's broadcast network for wider exposure, enhancing over-the-air accessibility for big events. Paramount+—the company's streaming platform—stands to gain enormously from absorbing TNT Sports' rights, bolstering its live sports offerings and helping compete against rivals like ESPN+, Peacock, and Prime Video in the streaming wars.

The merger would likely see the TNT Sports brand folded into CBS Sports, raising questions about the future of iconic programming like Inside the NBA (currently a TNT production, though licensed in part to ESPN in some contexts). Overall, this development signals a major consolidation in sports media, driven by Paramount's aggressive push to build scale amid industry pressures on traditional TV and streaming growth.

While the deal still faces potential regulatory scrutiny, the trajectory points to a transformed landscape where Paramount emerges as a true heavyweight in live sports rights and distribution.

Live Sports Viewing Comes With Added Price

Finding live sports remains frustrating and costly for many American viewers, according to a February 2026 Reviews.org survey, with nearly half struggling to locate games and over half missing them due to subscription issues.

Key findings from the report on active sports viewers include:

• 45% of viewers say they "struggle" to find the right channel or streaming service for a specific game or to follow their favorite team.
• 53% have missed a game because they lacked the necessary TV or streaming subscription.
• 27% of more frustrated fans report turning to unauthorized broadcasts (study details on this were not specified).
• 75% believe watching sports has become too expensive.

Sports fans are shifting toward virtual pay TV options, with 47% relying on services like YouTube TV, Sling TV, or Hulu + Live TV for viewing—compared to only about one-third using traditional cable or satellite.

Households with sports viewers spend an average of $122.93 per month on access: roughly $79.80 on broad pay TV (cable, live streaming, virtual) and $43.13 on on-demand streaming platforms.

The most-followed leagues among respondents are the NFL (68%), NBA (55%), Major League Baseball (54%), NCAA college football (41%), and NCAA college basketball (31%).

The survey, conducted in January 2026, included 1,000 U.S. adults via stratified sampling for national representation, with the report focusing on the 882 who identified as active sports viewers.

USAToday Turns First Profit In Six Years

USA TODAY Co. (formerly Gannett) achieves first annual profit since 2019 merger.  The company reported a net profit of $1.7 million for fiscal year 2025 on total revenues of approximately $2.3 billion, marking its first positive year-end net income since the $1.2 billion GateHouse merger in 2019.

This turnaround follows years of challenges, including massive losses (such as $670 million in 2020 amid the pandemic), heavy debt from the merger, mass layoffs in 2022, and an exodus of editors. The company battled inflation, declining traditional advertising, and AI disruptions while implementing cost cuts and strategic shifts.

Mike Reed

CEO Mike Reed credited the profit to:

• Growth in digital subscriptions, bolstered by a rebuilt strategy emphasizing reduced churn (subscriber turnover) and sustainable pricing.
• AI licensing deals, including partnerships with Meta and Microsoft, which provided new revenue streams from content.
• A broader digital transformation, with digital revenue reaching 47% of total revenue in recent quarters and targeting 50% by the end of the period.

The most recent quarter stood out as the company's strongest in years, with improvements in free cash flow, adjusted EBITDA (around $263 million for the year), and debt reduction (total debt fell below $1 billion, with significant repayments).

While the $1.7 million profit represents a razor-thin margin (about 0.07% on $2.3 billion revenue), it signals a key inflection point after prolonged losses. The company expects further profit growth, continued digital expansion, and cash flow improvements in 2026, as digital becomes the dominant revenue driver. 

This positions USA TODAY Co. for a more stable, growth-oriented future in a tough media landscape.

Radio History: Mar 2

➦In 1897...British patent No. 12,039 (1897) "Improvements in Transmitting Electrical impulses and Signals, and in Apparatus therefor", was granted to a 22-year-old Marconi.

As a boy he took a keen interest in physical and electrical science and studied the works of Maxwell, Hertz, Righi, Lodge and others. In 1895 he began laboratory experiments at his father’s country estate at Pontecchio where he succeeded in sending wireless signals over a distance of one and a half miles.

In 1896 Marconi took his apparatus to England where he was introduced to Mr. (later Sir) William Preece, Engineer-in-Chief of the Post Office, and later that year was granted the world’s first patent for a system of wireless telegraphy.

The apparatus that Marconi possessed at that time was similar to that of one in 1882 by A. E. Dolbear, of Tufts College, which used a spark coil generator and a carbon granular rectifier for reception. A plaque on the outside of BT Centre commemorates Marconi's first public transmission of wireless signals from that site. A series of demonstrations for the British government followed—by March 1897, Marconi had transmitted Morse code signals over a distance of about 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) across Salisbury Plain. On 13 May 1897, Marconi sent the world's first ever wireless communication over open sea.

➦In 1950...Karen Anne Carpenter born (Died - February 4, 1983 at age 32).  She was a singer and drummer who was part of the duo the Carpenters alongside her brother Richard. She was praised for her contralto vocals, and her drumming abilities were viewed positively by other musicians and critics.

Carpenter was born in New Haven, Connecticut, and moved to Downey, California, in 1963 with her family. She began to study the drums in high school, and joined the Long Beach State choir after graduating. After several years of touring and recording, the Carpenters were signed to A&M Records in 1969, achieving commercial and critical success throughout the 1970s. Initially, Carpenter was the band's full-time drummer, but gradually took the role of frontwoman as drumming was reduced to a handful of live showcases or tracks on albums.