A CYNOPSIS MESSAGE FROM LOCALITY
LOCALITY’S LOCAL LIFTTM STUDY
HOW LOCAL VIDEO CAMPAIGNS INCREASE CONSUMER ACTION
Unlock the power of local:
71% of U.S. TV viewers EXPECT advertising to be localized
81% of Gen Z and younger millennials (ages 18-34) share this local expectation
TV viewers are 4X more likely to trust brands with local ad messages
53% of local ad viewers are likely to make a purchase, 4X vs. national ad viewers
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IN THE NEWS |
Through the second round of March Madness, consumers have been 21% more likely to engage with ads during the men’s tournament than the primetime average, and 2% more likely during the women’s tournament, according to TV outcomes company EDO. Ad effectiveness has so far increased each round as the tournament progresses. Spots in the men’s tournament generated a 9% lift in consumer engagement from the first round to the second, while the women’s tournament experienced a 7% increase. |
Adult Swim has renewed “Common Side Effects” for a second season. The animated comedic thriller follows what happens after the discovery of a mysterious healing mushroom. “We are grateful for the enthusiastic response to ‘Common Side Effects’ and are thrilled to continue exploring this world with our amazing team and the fans who have embraced the show,” said co-creators Joe Bennett and Steve Hely. “Our goal with the show is to transform planet Earth and restore the human spirit. For now, we will settle for a second season.”
Jennifer Salke’s exit as head of Amazon MGM Studios led to the separation of TV and film operations – an organizational change that won’t be Amazon’s last. “We will be taking a couple of weeks to have thoughtful conversations with Jen’s directs and others to finalize the ideal long-term structure for the Amazon MGM Studios organization as a whole,” said Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios head Mike Hopkins last week. Salke – whose hits included “Jack Ryan” and “Reacher,” but who also oversaw the rocky production of “Citadel” and the stalled development of new James Bond films – leaves with a first-look film and TV producing deal with the studio.
Amber Ruffin won’t be performing at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner after all. The comedian had been booked for the association’s annual event, set to take place April 26, but the invitation was rescinded after Taylor Budowich, a White House deputy chief of staff, raised concerns over comments Ruffin has made that are critical of President Trump. “The WHCA board has unanimously decided we are no longer featuring a comedic performance this year,” WHCA president Eugene Daniels told members. “At this consequential moment for journalism, I want to ensure the focus is not on the politics of division but entirely on awarding our colleagues for their outstanding work and providing scholarship and mentorship to the next generation of journalists.”
It’s a good thing. In April, Pluto TV is offering The Martha Stewart Channel, starting with episodes of “Martha Gardens” from 7p-10p on April 4, 5, 6, and 9. 24/7 content also includes “Martha Cooks,” “Martha Bakes,” “Martha Stewart Living,” and more.
Not a good thing: QVC laid off about 900 US employees last week, as part of its “strategy to grow by becoming a live social shopping company,” according to a statement on the company’s website. The move impacts staffers across HSN, QVC US and Global Shared Services.
Ozy Media co-founder Carlos Watson, who had been ordered to report to prison on Friday for a nearly 10-year sentence, won’t be spending time in the slammer after all. At the eleventh hour, President Trump commuted his sentence in the financial security case. Watson also no longer has to pay $96 million in restitution and forfeiture After Watson’s sentencing, then-Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Breon Peace described Watson as “a con man who told lie upon lie upon lie to deceive investors into buying stock in his company.” Watson said he was “profoundly grateful to President Trump for correcting this grave injustice.”
The Trump administration was blocked from shuttering Voice of America when US District Court Judge J. Paul Oetke granted a temporary restraining order to a group of the service’s employees. Most of the staff of VOA had been put on leave following an executive order on March 14 to eliminate the US Agency for Global Media, which oversees government-funded networks. “The dismantling of USAGM would clearly cause employees, contractors, and grantees irreparable harm,” said the judge, noting that, ”Plaintiffs have offered sufficient evidence that Defendants are doing just that.”
The Writers Guild of America East slammed President Trump’s executive order ending collective bargaining with federal labor unions in agencies with national security missions. “It’s not surprising that the billionaires in the Trump Administration hate unions,” said WGAE Executive Director Sam Wheeler. “Unions are a bulwark against tyranny, both in the workplace and in civil society.” Actors’ Equity Association also weighed in, saying, “The workers targeted by this executive order are not only the indispensable pulse that keeps our country running, they are our friends, neighbors and colleagues. They’ve been on the front line of protecting our democracy, and their lawsuits against this administration have placed them in the crosshairs of political retribution.”
FCC Chair Brendan Carr said the agency has opened an investigation into Walt Disney Co. over whether Disney and ABC have been violating FCC equal employment opportunity regulations by “promoting invidious forms of DEI discrimination.” Last month, Disney made adjustments including replacing a Diversity & Inclusion metric with a Talent Strategy factor in executive compensation planning, but Carr maintained “significant concerns remain.” Responded a Disney spokesperson, “We are reviewing the Federal Communications Commission’s letter, and we look forward to engaging with the commission to answer its questions.”
American Rebel Holdings, home of American Rebel Beer as well as safes and self-defense products, is launching an ad campaign today that is expected to include traditional television spots on CNBC and Fox Business, complemented by digital ads that will appear on financial advice and investor education websites.
A year after the death at age 45 of Deb McBride, a beloved A+E corporate communications executive who had previously worked at Turner Broadcasting System, a scholarship has been established in her name. The Luckiest Foundation will provide annual scholarships to students pursuing studies in history, politics, or communications. To learn out more, go here. |
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SPORTS MEDIA AWARDS
Due to Popular Demand: We’re Giving You More Time to Shine
The Sports Media Awards entry deadline has been extended one final time—but not for long.
You now have until April 2 to submit your best campaigns, talent, and activations across digital, marketing, and live coverage.
From powerhouse teams to rising stars, this is your moment.
Don’t miss your shot to stand out on the industry’s biggest stage.
Submit Your Entry Now |
PRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT |
ESPN and Disney+ have ordered a docuseries focused on the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs from Words + Pictures in association with Skydance Sports, NFL Films, Patrick Mahomes’ 2PM Productions and the Chiefs’ inhouse production division, Foolish Club Studios. “ESPN and Disney+ know that sports fans are interested in stories that take them beyond the X’s and O’s, and this series will explore the legacy of the Chiefs franchise while also showcasing the emotional highs and lows of building a championship-winning team,” said Burke Magnus, President of Content, ESPN. “From the brilliance of Patrick Mahomes to the leadership of Andy Reid and the passion of Chiefs Kingdom, this project will showcase the drama, intensity, and heart that make this team a global phenomenon.”
Netflix has ordered a pilot for a sequel to the 1987-1993 NBC sitcom “A Different World.” The show, from writer/executive producer Felicia Pride and executive producers Debbie Allen, Mandy Summers, Tom Werner, Gina Prince-Bythewood and Reggie Bythewood, follows Dwayne and Whitley’s daughter at an HBCU.
Mary Steenburgen is joining her husband, Ted Danson, on season two of Netflix’s “Man on the Inside,” reports Variety. Steenburgen will play a musician involved in the case Danson’s character is working to solve. |
NEW & RETURNING SHOWS |
Season 18 of “Heartland,” the longest-running drama ever in Canada, will make its US debut on UP Faith & Family. Beginning Thursday, April 17, the streaming service will add new episodes weekly with a four week break after episode five.
Netflix dark comedy “Bad Thoughts” premieres Tuesday, May 13. The six-parter stars stand-up comedian Tom Segura, who also serves as creator, director, and executive producer. |
Today’ Premieres
Acorn TV: Truelove
HIDIVE: Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentesho
Netflix: Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer; Rhythm + Flow: Italy
Prime Video: Divorce Insurance |
DIGITAL OPPORTUNITIES
Introducing Cynopsis Trailer Park – A New Premiere Advertising Opportunity!
Cynopsis Trailer Park is the ultimate platform to showcase new series, specials, and seasons while featuring the latest in advertising innovation.
This all-new opportunity offers:
– Captivating Sneak Peeks – Highlight must-watch content in an engaging, high-visibility format.
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– Immersive Brand Messaging – Amplify your promotion with video, text, and infographics for a fully integrated experience.Be among the first to take advantage of this exclusive promotional platform.
Contact Amy Abbey for more details or to secure your spot! |
COMING UP |
The first interview with astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams since their return to Earth will air on Fox News’ “America’s Newsroom” at 9a today, March 31. Bill Hemmer will be live from the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston.
Polish documentary “Abortion Dream Team,” following four female activists, makes its US premiere Thursday, April 10 on Viaplay. |
DISTRIBUTION |
Tiny House’ new children’s television series, “I Spy, You Spy!”, a co-production with Nest Productions, has been picked up by the BBC. Production is underway, with the show set to premiere later in 2025 on CBeebies. |
EXECUTIVE MOVES |
Pam Levine has left her job as Head of Marketing for Disney Branded Television and National Geographic, a position she has held since July 2022. Levine will not be replaced; Erin Weir, EVP, Marketing, ABC and Disney Entertainment Television, will add marketing for Disney Branded Television to her purview.
The WNET Group named Dana Roberson as General Manager, THIRTEEN and Production Operations. Roberson is a former GM of “PBS NewsHour Weekend” and executive producer of special projects. |
IN MEMORIAM |
Actor Richard Chamberlain died March 29 at age 90. Chamberlain rose to fame in 1961-66 TV series “Dr. Kildare,” before earning the nickname “King of the Mini-Series” for leading roles in shows including “Centennial,” “Shogun” and “The Thorn Birds.” |
This Day in History
1918 – The first Daylight Savings Time change occurred.
Answer to Our Last Trivia Question
On “Man With a Plan” (2016-20), why did Andi hate pranks? She was traumatized by a prank in her childhood. Kudos to: Gerry Bixenspan-TV Marketing Inc./NYC; Tom Moore-Kalt Productions/LA
Today’s Trivia Question
In which series did Muhammad Ali, Celine Dion and Sally Ride guest star as themselves? (Email your answer to trivia@cynopsis.com and be sure to include your name, company, city and time zone. Unofficial rules: a limit of four answers per time zone.) |
DIRECTOR, AD MARKETING & SALES >>
THE SHADE ROOM/REMOTE: Develop and execute a revenue growth strategy to drive direct advertising, branded content, and sponsorship sales as well as lead the development of compelling advertising and branded content offerings tailored for TSR’s audience and cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key advertisers, media agencies, and brand partners. Full info HERE
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE DIRECT RESPONSE >>
OPPORTUNITY MEDIA/NY(REMOTE/HYBRID): Seeking an energetic achiever with excellent written & organizational skills for role to assist in growing revenue for dynamic Direct Response Team: required: BA Degree, Min 2 yrs DR Experience. Wide Orbit Exp a +. Full info HERE
PROFESSIONAL LECTURER OF COMMUNICATION/SPORTS BROADCASTING >>
MARIST UNIVERSITY/ POUGHKEEPSIE, NY: Teach studio and field broadcasting and new media courses in sports media and journalism as well as be able to teach a studio course on producing a newscast and help students live stream a podcast or produce short-form feature content suitable for social media streaming. Also demonstrate through their teaching, professional activity, and service. Full info HERE
DIGITAL MEDIA PLANNER/BUYER >>
BEACON MEDIA GROUP/ LYNDHURST, NJ: Management of paid social media campaigns, strong written & verbal communication skills, knowledge of various targeting methodologies, and basic understanding of traditional media. Familiarity with media planning and buying software. Proficient in website analytics tools. Experience in pixel implementation and conversion tracking. Full info HERE
VICE PRESIDENT BUSINESS AFFAIRS >>
HEARST MEDIA PRODUCTION GROUP/CHARLOTTE, NC: Focus on FCC compliance, brand integrity for all current series and day-to-day business affairs for development and production. Strategize with management and outside counsel on business issues, and draft, review and execute various short-form business documents. Legal background and/or related media experience is required. Full info HERE
SALES LEAD – AGENCY PARTNERSHIPS
UPWAVE
NEW YORK, NY
Build and manage relationships with our agency partners – mostly targeting media buyers and planners – and help them see the value of adding Upwave measurement to The Trade Desk campaigns. You will both leverage your existing network and open new doors to achieve aggressive but achievable sales targets. Full info HERE |
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