Ted Sarandos on Netflix’s Strategy, Marvel Drama, and Meghan Markle

Apple TV+ is losing over $1 billion a year despite heavy investment in original content. Since its 2019 launch, Apple has poured more than $5 billion annually into hit shows like Ted Lasso and The Morning Show, but subscriber growth still lags behind Netflix and Disney+. Wayne Ma, The Information reports that Apple remains committed to the streaming battle, even as losses mount

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos continues to shape Hollywood’s future, discussing the streaming wars, Netflix’s rocky past with Marvel, and the company's partnership with Meghan Markle. In a new interview with Variety’s Matt Donnelly and Ramin Setoodeh, he highlights Netflix’s early advantage in original content and expresses surprise at how long competitors took to catch up. He also reflects on creative tensions with Marvel Television and defends Meghan Markle, calling her “underestimated and overly dismissed” as Netflix renews her show With Love, Meghan for a second season.

Netflix is bringing Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to life in a new way—with a reality competition series. Alex Weprin for The Hollywood Reporter shares that this move is part of Netflix’s broader strategy to expand Roald Dahl’s universe with fresh, interactive storytelling. The series will give fans an immersive experience inside Wonka’s whimsical world.

Warner Bros. Discovery has removed classic Looney Tunes cartoons from Max, continuing a pattern of decisions under CEO David Zaslav that have raised concerns about the studio’s commitment to its animation legacy. Bill Desowitz and Sarah Shachat for IndieWire report that this follows the shelving of completed projects like Coyote vs. Acme for tax benefits. While Warner Bros. Discovery is prioritizing adult and family programming, the move calls into question the long-term accessibility of these iconic cartoons.

Playboi Carti’s I AM MUSIC is projected to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, marking his second chart-topping album. Sophie Caraan for Hypebeast reports that the album, which dropped on March 14, features collaborations with Future, Young Thug, Lil Uzi Vert, Travis Scott, The Weeknd, Skepta, and Kendrick Lamar. With first-week sales expected to hit 250,000 units and record-breaking streaming numbers, Carti’s return is making waves.

Discord is launching mobile video ads to expand its advertising reach and create more opportunities for game advertisers. Starting in June 2025, its new ad format, Video Quests, will reward users with in-game items and avatar decorations for watching promotional videos. VentureBeat’s Dean Takahashi reports that this move builds on Discord’s existing desktop and console ad formats, offering brands a way to engage its mobile audience without disrupting the user experience.

Brands are shifting from casual, unpolished TikTok content to more polished, high-production videos to stand out. Companies like Tower 28 and Milani Cosmetics are embracing scripted, entertainment-driven content to better engage audiences. Gillian Follett, Ad Age reports that this trend reflects a growing focus on brand storytelling and high-quality visuals in social media marketing.

Bobby Hundreds, co-founder of the streetwear brand The Hundreds, has joined Disney in a creative role. Jaelani Turner-Williams for Complex reports that this move comes as Hundreds closes his brand’s Fairfax flagship store, marking a shift in his career. The collaboration signals Disney’s interest in integrating modern streetwear aesthetics into its creative projects.

Nike is making major leadership changes with the departure of Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer Daniel Heaf and Chief Communications Officer KeJuan Wilkins. CEO Elliott Hill, who took over in October 2024, has been restructuring senior management to revitalize the brand and address sales challenges. The Business of Fashion reports that Heaf’s role has been eliminated, while Wilkins, a nearly 20-year veteran, is stepping down. These shifts are part of Nike’s broader effort to refocus on sports and strengthen retail partnerships.

McDonald’s is rolling out a limited-edition Minecraft-themed meal to coincide with A Minecraft Movie, aiming to engage the gaming community. The meal includes a Big Mac or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets, fries, a drink, and one of six exclusive collectibles, plus a code for in-game content. Erika Wheless, Ad Age reports that this campaign showcases McDonald’s growing focus on pop culture partnerships to drive engagement.