News

Vice Media has landed a $75 million credit facility from Western Alliance Bank, with plans to use it to fill out its programming slate.

The transaction is the latest milestone for Vice since its emergence from bankruptcy. Amy Powell, the Paramount and Amazon veteran who joined Vice last May as president of the company’s studio division, intends to use the new financial resources on staffing, acquisitions and development. Plans call for scripted projects, not historically Vice’s signature, to be part of the new mix.

This is all comes as the company plans to invest $500M in content, aided by the credit facility as well as funding from Fortress Investment Group and distribution deals, over the next five years.

While word of the new credit facility and Vice’s corporate backers has appeared elsewhere, Powell shared her outlook on building the programming exclusively with Deadline.

“Our No. 1 focus is to...

For its sixth installment, Under the Big Sky Festival in Whitefish, Montana, boasted one of its most potent lineups yet: Tyler Childers, Wynonna Judd, Mumford & Sons, the Red Clay Strays, Shane Smith & the Saints, Luke Grimes, Whitey Morgan & the 78s, Hailey Whitters, Kelsey Waldon, Wyatt Flores, and more all descended on the mountain town just an hour’s drive from the Canadian border.

Located on a 400-acre working ranch owned by Under the Big Sky Festival founder Johnny Shockey, the festival is stunning in its beauty and proximity to rugged nature.

The 2025 Major League Baseball All-Star Game is set to happen tonight (July 15), and we have the full roster of players from the American League and the National League!

The big game will air live from the Atlanta Braves stadium, Truist Park, beginning at 8pm Et on Fox.

Some MLB veterans are in the lineup, like Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, and Clayton Kershaw, plus some younger names like Paul Skenes! If you don’t know, players are selected in two rounds of fan-voting. It’s similar to the NFL Pro Bowl game in that regard!

Tune in to Fox on TV tonight to catch all the coverage.

Keep reading to find out more…

Scroll down to see the entire roster for the 2025 MLB All Star Game, airing tonight!

American League

Starters

C: Cal Raleigh (Sea)

1B: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (Tor)

2B: Gleyber Torres (Det)

3B: Junior Caminero (TB) +

SS: Jacob Wilson...

Cross Canadian Ragweed are adding a sixth comeback show to their ongoing reunion. The Oklahoma roots rockers will headline Colorado State University’s Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins on July 21, capping the first night of the Professional Bull Riders’ Last Cowboy Standing event.

Ragweed replaces Tim McGraw on the Pbr bill. McGraw is recovering from back surgery, the latest in a series of issues with his back and knees that have plagued the three-time Grammy winner since early in his 2024 Standing Room Only tour.

“I heard there was actually an...

Turnpike Troubadors have announced the “Wild America Tour,” a new stretch of 2025 US tour dates kicking off in the fall.

The country band will begin their new tour after completing their summer stretch on Willie Nelson’s Outlaw Festival Tour as well as their previously-announced North American dates. The group’s “Wild America Tour” kicks off on August 28th in Chicago and runs through cities like Kansas City, Columbus, St. Louis, Asheville, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Cleveland, and many more. The tour ends in Mesa, Arizona on December 13th. See Turnpike Troubadours’ full list of tour dates below.

Get Turnpike Troubadours Tickets Here

Tickets for Turnpike Troubadours’ “Wild America Tour” will first be available via an artist pre-sale kicking off on Wednesday, May 14th at 10:00 a.m. local time; fans can sign up for pre-sale access to their desired show date(s) via the band’s official website. Tickets...

Hot Docs, the internationally renowned nonfiction film festival in Toronto, announced awards tonight for the 32nd edition of the event.

Best International Feature Documentary went to I, Poppy, written and directed by Vivek Chaudhary. The film centers on a son who “fights corrupt officials while his mother tends their poppy farm in India.” The award comes with a $10,000 cash prize.

“A film of negotiations – with family, with community, with the systems that limit our choices and bind our fates,” noted the jury, comprised of Brett Story, Inti Cordera, and Shane Smith, describing I, Poppy as a “moving and thoughtfully crafted chronicle of a family navigating conflicts, contradictions and uncomfortable truths.”

‘River of Grass’

The Joan VanDuzer Special Jury Prize-International Feature Documentary was awarded to River of Grass, directed by Sasha Wortzel, “an ode to the Florida Everglades that explores its historical and ongoing challenges through the writings and testimonies of environmentalists,...

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Willie Nelson‘s annual Luck Reunion music festival returns today, as fans will head to the legendary artist’s Spicewood, Texas, ranch for a day of live music. Sticking to tradition, the day ends with a performance from the evening’s headliners Nelson and his Family Band.

At a Glance: How to Watch 2025 Luck Reunion Festival Livestream

Stream: Nugs.net Date: March 13, 2025 Get Subscription at $19.99/month

Luckily, those who...

Before playing the most high-profile concert of his career, Josh Meloy had a routine to keep.

Outside his dressing room, the backstage halls at the Criterion, a mid-sized rock room in downtown Oklahoma City and benchmark for up-and-coming bands passing through, were nearly as crowded as the sold-out venue itself. This was in early February, and Meloy was headlining the 3,300-capacity room for the first time, with parents, wives, children, aunts, uncles, cousins — anybody considered family to Meloy and his five-piece band — all welcome. It created the type of chaos...

Luck Reunion, the bucket-list music festival held each March at Willie Nelson’s ranch in Spicewood, Texas, has announced its 2025 lineup. Along with a set by perennial headliner Nelson and his Family Band, the daylong fest will include performances by Charley Crockett, Steve Earle, Taj Mahal, Shane Smith and the Saints, Lukas Nelson, Jesse Welles, Lily Meola, and Julien Baker and Torres.

This year’s Luck is scheduled for March 13, as usual, smack dab in the middle of the music portion of the South by Southwest conference in nearby Austin.

The Cross Canadian Ragweed comeback is expanding to Texas.

The Red Dirt pioneers, along with co-headliners Turnpike Troubadours, are bringing their Boys From Oklahoma showcase to McLane Stadium in Waco, on the campus of Baylor University, on August 23. Ragweed and Turnpike — who confirmed the details to Rolling Stone — will be joined by Shane Smith and the Saints, Wade Bowen, and American Aquarium for the concert.

After Ragweed sold out four reunion shows in Stillwater, Oklahoma, set for April 10 through 13, frontman Cody Canada tells Rs that the combination of band excitement...

The Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan is returning to the world of podcasting.

Corgan, best known for records such as Gish, Siamese Dream and Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, has teamed up with Bill Maher’s Club Random Studios on The Magnificent Others.

The video podcast, which launches on February 5, will feature Corgan having conversations with musicians, artists, entrepreneurs and scientists.

Guests include Kiss’ Gene Simmons, Corey Feldman, Sam & Dave’s Sam Moore, Bon Jovi’s Richie Sambora, Wilson Phillips’ Carnie Wilson, Rage Against The Machine’s Tom Morello, Pat Benatar and Neil Geraldo.

It comes after The Smashing Pumpkins recently released their 13th album – Aghori Mhori Mei – last year.

Corgan, who also owns and serves as president of The National Wrestling Alliance, is the latest star to sign up to work with Maher’s Club Random Studios, which also features podcasts from Shane Smith and Jillian Michaels.

After 15 years, two months, and 30 days, Cross Canadian Ragweed’s hiatus is over.

The Oklahoma four-piece, whose mid-2000s heyday laid the groundwork for the current surge in popularity of Red Dirt music, reunited to play six songs late Thursday, closing down the main stage on a cold night at Mile 0 Fest in Key West, Florida.

“I was honestly nervous, and I didn’t think I was going to be,” frontman Cody Canada tells Rolling Stone of the set, “but, man, that felt great.”

Ragweed took the stage after a 14-song Ragweed tribute set,...

Exclusive: Vice Media has launched a sports division, lining up more than 50 hours of programming and also shifting its Vice TV cable network to a sports-first approach.

Vice Sports will look to capitalize on still-healthy viewer appetite for sports fare, but the initiative does not signal an intent as of now to go after any top-tier live rights.

As part of the strategic shift, Vice TV will co-produce and air seven original sports series early next year, with prime-time programming blocks carrying the Vice Sports brand. The company will produce more than 50 hours of sports-themed docuseries, programs, events, and podcasts for global distributors across television and digital. Among the initial partners with Vice is Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions.

Anchoring the network’s sports slate are the original series Pitino: Red Storm Rising and Calipari: Razor’s Edge, which center on two prominent and controversial college basketball coaches. Vice TV...

On Thursday December 5 2024, Vice broadcasts Shane Smith Has Questions!

Episode Summary

In the upcoming episode of “Shane Smith Has Questions,” the host dives deep into some of the most pressing social and political issues of the day. This episode promises to tackle fundamental truths that often get overlooked in mainstream discussions. With a reputation for asking tough questions, Shane Smith aims to shed light on complex topics that affect people’s lives.

Throughout the episode, Shane engages with experts and everyday individuals, seeking their perspectives on current events. By doing so, he hopes to uncover different viewpoints and foster a better understanding of the issues at hand. This approach not only highlights the diversity of opinions but also encourages viewers to think critically about the world around them.

As the episode unfolds, Shane’s candid style and thoughtful inquiries aim to spark meaningful conversations. Whether discussing economic inequality, climate change,...

In the latest episode of Shane Smith Has Questions, host Shane Smith tackles the fundamental truths behind today’s most pressing social and political issues. With his signature approach, Smith delves deep into complex topics, offering insightful perspectives and encouraging viewers to question the narratives often presented in mainstream media. This episode promises to spark thought-provoking discussions as Smith explores key issues that are shaping the world around us.

Through candid interviews, sharp commentary, and a mix of investigative journalism, Smith brings clarity to difficult subjects, seeking answers to the tough questions that many are afraid to ask. As always, the show offers a blend of humor and seriousness, making it both informative and engaging. For anyone interested in understanding the bigger picture of current events, Shane Smith Has Questions is a must-watch, offering a fresh and honest take on the issues that matter most in today’s world.

Release...

On Thursday November 21 2024, Vice broadcasts Shane Smith Has Questions!

Is There an Immigration Crisis? Pt. 2. Episode 5 Episode Summary

In the upcoming episode of “Shane Smith Has Questions,” titled “Is There an Immigration Crisis? Pt. 2,” host Shane Smith dives deeper into the complex topic of immigration. This episode continues the discussion from the previous installment, exploring the many layers of this pressing social issue. Shane aims to uncover the fundamental truths, if any exist, surrounding immigration and its impact on society.

The episode promises to bring a mix of interviews, expert opinions, and real-life stories. Shane will talk to various individuals, including immigrants, policymakers, and activists, to provide a well-rounded view of the situation. The goal is to shed light on the challenges faced by those navigating the immigration system and to understand the broader implications for communities and countries.

Viewers can expect a thoughtful examination of the policies and narratives that shape the immigration debate.

On Thursday November 21 2024, Vice broadcasts Shane Smith Has Questions!

Youtube Star: Destiny (Steven Bonnell) Episode 6 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Shane Smith Has Questions” titled “Youtube Star: Destiny (Steven Bonnell)” promises to delve into the complexities of polarization in America. In this episode, Shane Smith sits down for a one-on-one interview with Steven Bonnell, known online as Destiny. Bonnell is a prominent figure in the world of online debate and discussion, making him a fitting guest for a conversation about the current state of discourse in the country.

During the interview, Bonnell will share his insights on how polarization affects communication and understanding among people with differing opinions. He has built a reputation for engaging in heated debates, and viewers can expect him to discuss the techniques and strategies he uses when arguing. This exploration of arguing as an art form could shed light on how effective dialogue can be fostered,...

In the upcoming episode of “Shane Smith Has Questions,” titled “Is There an Immigration Crisis? Pt. 2,” airing at 10:00 Pm on Thursday, November 14, 2024, Shane Smith dives deeper into the complex world of immigration. Following the first part of this two-part series, Shane aims to uncover the fundamental truths behind the ongoing debates surrounding immigration policies and their social implications.

This episode promises to be thought-provoking as Shane engages with experts, activists, and everyday people affected by immigration issues. He seeks to highlight the different perspectives that shape the conversation. Viewers can expect candid discussions about the challenges and opportunities that arise in a world where immigration is a hot-button topic.

As Shane navigates through various narratives, he aims to shed light on whether there truly is an immigration crisis or if the situation is more nuanced than it appears. The episode is sure to invite viewers to reflect on their...

On Thursday October 31 2024, Vice broadcasts Shane Smith Has Questions!

Episode Summary

In the upcoming episode of “Shane Smith Has Questions,” the host dives into some of the most pressing social and political issues of today. Shane Smith, known for his engaging style and thought-provoking questions, aims to uncover the fundamental truths that shape current events. This episode promises to tackle topics that resonate with many, encouraging viewers to think critically about the world around them.

Throughout the episode, Shane will engage with experts and everyday people, seeking their perspectives on various issues. By exploring different viewpoints, he hopes to shed light on complex subjects that often spark debate. The discussions are expected to be candid and insightful, providing a platform for voices that might not always be heard.

As the episode unfolds, Shane’s curiosity drives the conversation, leading to unexpected revelations and deeper understanding. This approach not only informs...

In the upcoming episode of “Shane Smith Has Questions,” titled “Are We Ruled By a Shadow Government?” Shane Smith dives into some heavy topics that have sparked debate and intrigue over the years. This episode, airing on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 11:00 Pm on Vice, promises to explore the murky waters of political power and hidden agendas.

Shane is joined by author Peter Dale Scott, who is well-known for his work on deep state theories and historical events that have shaped American politics. Together, they will discuss the recent assassination attempts involving former President Trump, connecting these events to a broader narrative about power and secrecy in government. The conversation will also touch on significant moments in history, like the Kennedy assassination and Watergate, that have left many questioning the true nature of political influence in the United States.

Viewers can expect a thought-provoking dialogue that challenges conventional views and encourages...

“Shane Smith Has Questions” is set to air on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 1:00 Am on Vice. This show features Shane Smith as he dives deep into the pressing social and political issues of today. With a unique approach, Shane aims to uncover the fundamental truths behind these complex topics.

In this episode, Shane will engage with a variety of voices, bringing different perspectives to the table. He will ask tough questions and encourage open discussions that challenge conventional thinking. The audience can expect a thought-provoking exploration of the issues that shape society, from politics to culture.

As the world navigates through rapid changes, Shane’s insightful commentary and inquisitive nature will help shed light on the conversations that matter. Each episode promises to leave viewers with more questions than answers, fostering a sense of curiosity about the world around them. This is not just another talk show; it’s a...

On Thursday October 24 2024, Vice broadcasts Shane Smith Has Questions!

Episode 102 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Shane Smith Has Questions” promises to delve into important social and political issues that affect many people today. Host Shane Smith will guide discussions that aim to uncover fundamental truths behind these pressing topics. With his unique style, Shane seeks to engage viewers in a thought-provoking conversation.

In this episode, Shane will tackle various issues that are shaping society. He will explore different perspectives and encourage open dialogue. The show aims to provide insights that help viewers understand the complexities of the world around them. Shane’s approach is to ask the tough questions that often go unaddressed.

As the episode unfolds, viewers can expect a blend of interviews, expert opinions, and real-life stories. Shane’s curiosity and commitment to uncovering the truth will be at the forefront. This episode is set to challenge...

Two Step Inn will return in 2025 with headlining performances from Alan Jackson and Sturgill Simpson. The Georgetown, Texas music festival will be held on April 5 and 6 at San Gabriel Park for the third consecutive year with more than 35 scheduled performances.

Jackson will lead the first day of the weekend event with additional performances from Miranda Lambert, Flatland Cavalry, Gavin Adcock, Ernest, Eli Young Band, Randall King, Tracy Byrd, Diamond Rio, Priscilla Block, William Beckmann, Diplo and more.

As the Sunday headliner, Simpson’s set will follow performances from Lynyrd Skynyrd,...

“Shane Smith Has Questions” is set to return for another thought-provoking episode on Thursday, October 31, 2024, at 10:00 Pm on Vice. This show features host Shane Smith as he dives into some of the most pressing social and political issues of the day. With his signature style, Shane aims to uncover the fundamental truths that shape our world.

In this episode, Shane will tackle a variety of topics that resonate with many. His approach is to ask the tough questions and spark meaningful conversations. Whether it’s about current events, cultural shifts, or political debates, Shane seeks to get to the heart of the matter. The show promises to challenge viewers’ perspectives and encourage critical thinking.

As always, Shane’s engaging personality and insightful commentary make for an intriguing hour of television. Audiences can expect a mix of expert interviews, real-life stories, and on-the-ground reporting. This episode is sure to leave...

Wearing a feathered cowboy hat and a brand-new black jacket with “Great Western” printed across the back and “Hassie” stitched on the front — for his wife, fellow Yellowstone star Hassie Harrison — Ryan Bingham stood and watched the house lights fall over the Texas Gentlemen.

Just a few moments earlier, the Lone Star State outfit that doubles as Bingham’s backing band kicked off “Nothing Holds Me Down” and now Bingham was ready to take stage of the Dickie’s Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, to headline an arena for the first time in his career.

In the upcoming episode of “Shane Smith Has Questions,” airing at 10:00 Pm on Thursday, October 24, 2024, Shane Smith dives deep into some of the most pressing social and political issues of today. This episode promises to tackle fundamental truths that often go overlooked in the fast-paced news cycle. Shane’s unique approach encourages viewers to think critically about the world around them.

As a seasoned journalist, Shane Smith brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table. He has a knack for asking the tough questions that many shy away from. In this episode, he explores various topics that resonate with audiences, aiming to spark meaningful conversations. With a mix of interviews and on-the-ground reporting, Shane seeks to uncover the realities behind the headlines.

Viewers can expect an engaging and thought-provoking hour as Shane navigates complex issues with clarity and honesty. This episode of “Shane Smith Has Questions” is set to be an eye-opener,...

On Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 10:00 Pm, Vice will premiere a thought-provoking episode of Shane Smith Has Questions. This show has gained a reputation for diving deep into pressing issues and exploring topics that matter. In this episode, Shane Smith is back, armed with questions that will spark conversations and engage viewers in meaningful dialogue.

Throughout the episode, Shane Smith tackles various subjects, examining the complexities of modern life and the challenges people face today. His unique style and genuine curiosity make the discussions both enlightening and entertaining. Whether he is speaking with experts, everyday people, or celebrities, Shane aims to uncover the truths behind significant issues and offer a fresh perspective.

Viewers can expect a mix of humor, insight, and perhaps some surprises along the way. With Shane’s knack for storytelling and his ability to connect with guests, this episode promises to be both informative and enjoyable. Tune in...

Many great investigative pieces have been written about Vice, the publication that had a spectacular rise as well as an explosive collapse, culminating in the mass layoffs of hundreds of employees earlier this year and subsequent attempts by those like co-founder Shane Smith to save it. Eddie Huang’s documentary, “Vice Is Broke,” is not going to be one of them.

This is something that the director, a former employee and host for the company who says he had to fight to receive full compensation for the work he did, would likely agree with. Early on in his documentary, Huang makes clear that he isn’t interested in following conventions of the form by relying on the familiar pattern of cutting to talking heads and recountings of what happened.

Instead, he sits down with a collection of former employees one-by-one to talk with them in extended interviews about their experiences...

Eddie Huang came to both bury and praise Vice at the opening night of the Toronto Film Festival on Thursday.

The author, chef and former host of the bankrupt media company’s show, “Huang’s World,” was on hand with his new documentary “Vice Is Broke.” The film serves as both an ode to Vice’s anarchic spirit and the generations of aggressive, barrier-pushing, break-shit journalists and filmmakers it employed, as well as a darker look at the greed and questionable ethics that helped send it into Chapter 11. And Huang, who says he got an NDA he had signed waived in return for unpaid residuals, made it clear that Vice, or what’s left of it, isn’t too happy with what he made.

“Their lawyers are still trying to fight us on this film,” Huang said during a question-and-answer session following the documentary’s premiere at TIFF Lightbox Cinema. He added that Shane Smith,...

The title of Eddie Huang’s new documentary says it all: “Vice Is Broke.” The media company that defined counterculture sensibilities filed for bankruptcy in 2023. And Huang — the multitalented author, on-camera personality, and documentarian — began his new film with a grievance.

First, Huang says in an interview, he had a personal falling-out with controversial Vice executive Shane Smith, the face of the brand and the mastermind of the company’s scaling-up beyond what was sustainable. (Huang declines to go into the nature of the offense.) Then, he noticed that he was owed money for his on-camera work for Vice, including the TV series “Huang’s World,” in which he traveled and experienced other cultures in the style of his role model and late friend, Anthony Bourdain.

“I had been asking for an accounting since 2018,” Huang says. “They kicked the can down the road and never paid me my residuals. The bankruptcy...

Toronto International Film Festival has brought back the renamed Best Canadian Discovery Award after a five-year hiatus.

The C$10,000 award recognises emerging filmmakers and will go to a first or second feature film in official selection.

The roster of this year’s TIFF awards includes Best Canadian Feature Film, for which all Canadian features in official selection — excluding first or second features — will be considered for a C$10,000 cash prize.

The jurors are Guadalajara International Film Festival and Cineteca Ficg general director Estrella Araiza, Toronto-based director Chelsea McMullan, and Japanese Canadian artist and filmmaker Randall Okita. The award is presented by Canada Goose.

New episodic series from Alfonso Cuarón, Thomas Vinterberg, Joe Wright and Janicza Bravo will screen in the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival’s Primetime program, TIFF organizers announced Friday.

Cuarón will be at the festival with his Apple TV+ psychological thriller series “Disclaimer,” starring Cate Blanchett and Kevin Kline; Vinterberg with “Families Like Ours,” a six-episode series set in a future when Denmark must be evacuated because of rising sea level; Wright with “M: Son of the Century,” a limited series about the rise of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini; and “Zola” director Bravo with “The Listeners,” starring Rebecca Hall.

Other projects in Primetime include “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” director Tomas Alfredson’s “Faithless,” an adaptation of the semi-autobiographical 2000 film written by Ingmar Bergman and directed by Liv Ullman; Australian director Dylan River’s “Thou Shalt Not Steal”; and two projects from Canadian filmmakers, Courtney Montour and Tanya Talaga’s “The Knowing...

Toronto International Film Festival’s (TIFF) Primetime programme unveiled with the Short Cuts selections on Friday includes new series from Joe Wright, Thomas Vinterberg, Alfonso Cuarón, and Tomas Alfredson.

A trio of high-profile Primetime selections premiere in Venice: Wright’s M. Son Of The Century for Sky and Fremantle explores the rise to power of Italian fascist dictator Benito Mussolini; Cuarón’s psychological miniseries Disclaimer for Apple TV+ stars Cate Blanchett as a journalist with a dark past; and Vinterberg’s family drama Families Like Ours from Studiocanal and Zentropa stars Paprika Steen.

There is a world premiere for Alfredson and Sara Johnsen’s Faithless,...

The TIFF 2024 TV lineup is full of buzzy world premieres and screenings from beloved auteurs venturing into the episodic space.

The Primetime lineup includes eight new series, with five world premieres. For one, “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” director Tomas Alfredson reimagines Ingmar Bergman and Liv Ullman’s iconic 2000 film “Faithless” as a six-part limited series.

The show’s synopsis reads: “In the present day, renowned director David Howard, 73, is reunited with his former great love, actress Marianne Vogler, 75 (Lena Endre). Their encounter forces them to confront the painful repercussions of their past relationship, not only for themselves but also for their families. 40 years prior, a young David (Gustav Lindh) and Marianne (Frida Gustavsson) find themselves entwined in a passionate love affair which they must keep a secret, as Marianne is married to David’s best friend, Markus (August Wittgenstein).”

Other highlights include the world premiere of Janicza Bravo’s sci-fi series “The Listeners,...

The Toronto Intl. Film Festivals folks are slowly coming to the end of their selection announcements (we are still expecting them to announce some heavyweight last-minute entries) and in today’s batch it was Thom Powers’ turn to drop the Docs Programme. We have a good mix of world premieres and some film fest musts in the twenty-one films selected and if we had to cherry-pick a trio of world premiere musts we ‘d point to the films by Eddie Huang, Steve Pink and the Jen Gatien and Billy Corben tandem.

Huang known for ABC’s Fresh Off the Boat, will open the section with Vice is Broke — which chronicles the events leading up to Shane Smith‘s Vice Media, a once scrappy media player valued at $5.7 billion, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2023, paving the way for the company’s sale.…...

Eddie Huang, creator of ABC’s Fresh Off the Boat comedy, is set to open the Toronto Film Festival’s TIFF Docs sidebar with a world premiere for Vice is Broke, a documentary about the rise and fall of Vice Media.

Huang will chronicle events leading up to Shane Smith’s Vice Media, a scrappy media player once valued at $5.7 billion, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2023 to open the way for a sale of the company.

There’s also world bows in Toronto’s documentary strand for Blue Road – The Edna O’Brien Story, directed by Sinéad O’Shea, who did hours of interviews with the legendary Irish novelist in the last year of O’Brien’s life; Jen Gaiten and Screwball doc maker Billy Corben bringing Men of War, about a former U.S. Green Beret caught up in a failed 2020 coup to remove Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro; and...

Studio71, a top podcast network for digital-first creators and brands, is adding Club Random with Bill Maher to its roster of shows. Studio71 will team up with Maher and his Club Random Studios’ co-founders Chris Case and Chuck Labella to drive advertising and growth opportunities for the show. Additionally, Studio71 will support the launch of new podcasts produced under the Club Random Studios banner. The deal was announced today by Adam Boorstin, Co-CEO of Studio71.

"Club Random" showcases Maher in dynamic, hour-long one-on-one interviews with stars across entertainment, politics, music, and more.The incredible guests include Quentin Tarantino, Sheryl Crow, Jerry Seinfeld, Jordan Peterson, Nikki Glaser, Seth MacFarlane, Ice Cube, Jillian Michaels, Dana White, and Bill Burr, who have appeared on Club Random to share their thoughts and enjoy drinks with Maher.

Studio71 will support distribution of the show, which releases episodes in both audio and video formats, as well as manage podcast advertising,...

Bill Maher has jumped to WME, months after a report surfaced noting he had grown disenchanted with his former agency, CAA, which had represented the iconoclastic comedian and satirist for years.

WME, part of the talent-and-sports consortium Endeavor, will represent Maher in all areas of entertainment. Maher is in the midst of hosting the 22nd season of his long-running HBO talk show, “Real Time,” and signed a two-year extension for the program in March, ensuring his voice will be heard through the current presidential election and through 2026. “Real Time” is seen on HBO and parent company Warner Bros. Discovery’s Max streaming service, and also airs on Saturday nights on sibling cable outlet CNN, a day after it debuts on HBO.

Maher continues to be managed by Marc Gurvitz of Brillstein Entertainment Partners.

His jump to WME may have been precipitated by a report in The Hollywood Reporter that noted...

David Ellison started his pursuit of Paramount Global last winter — 30 years nearly to the month after Sumner Redstone and Barry Diller began their long M&a fight for control of one of Hollywood’s foundational studios.

A generation later, Ellison’s Skydance Media and Gerry Cardinale’s RedBird Capital are poised to add a new chapter to the history of Paramount, CBS and more, after an equally protracted and hard-fought negotiations with Shari Redstone’s National Amusements Inc. So, assuming the $8 billion transaction is completed, what do they plan to do with their prize?

The new leadership team, which includes Ellison as chairman-ceo of the merged company and former NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell as president, sought to answer that question as it made the rounds with analysts and reporters after clinching the sale agreement on July 7. Ellison, 41, leaned on his roots as a scion of the tech sector to explain how...

More than three months after Vice Media Group CEO Bruce Dixon announced plans to layoff hundreds of employees and the shuttering of its flagship website, co-founder Shane Smith is set to return as editor-in-chief of Vice News and to host a podcast with Bill Maher this summer.

Smith, who co-founded Vice (which at the time was called Voice of Montreal) in 1994, stepped down as CEO in 2018 as the digital publication floundered behind the scenes. When discussing his decision to come back, he told the Wall Street Journal: “It’s your baby that you built,...

Co-founder Shane Smith is taking on a new role at Vice. The Wall St. Journal reports that he has been appointed editor-in-chief of Vice News.

“It’s your baby that you built, that you birthed,” Smith said to the WSJ of his new tasks, which come in the wake of several years of rocky financial times at the company.

Smith will reportedly host several shows, starting with Vice News: The Truth? a video podcast that will feature talk-show host Bill Maher as a recurring guest. Smith said the show will report facts free of political bias and expose misinformation, and will air on Maher’s podcast network and Vice TV.

The WSJ says Smith will also create content on the company’s social-media channels.

Vice exited the day-to-day news business earlier this year and is focused on long-form documentaries.

Smith blamed social media platforms for siphoning off Vice’s ad revenue.

Shane Smith is trading in the boardroom for the newsroom at Vice Media.

The brash co-founder of Vice Media will become a correspondent for Vice News, returning to a role creating content for the media brand, which filed for bankruptcy protection a year ago, and laid off much of its staff earlier this year in a major restructuring.

Smith will also host a podcast for Bill Maher’s Club Random Studios Network called Vice News: The Truth. The video podcast, which will occasionally feature Maher, will debut this summer and also run on Vice’s TV channel.

Maher was a producer on Vice’s HBO series, which frequently featured Smith.

Vice says that Smith will also appear on other news networks commentating on the 2024 election, and will produce content for Vice News’ social channels.

Smith had been executive chairman of Vice, and he led a quixotic attempt to salvage the...

Dylan Gossett is well aware that his career has been ridiculously fast-tracked.

In just one year’s time, the 25-year-old Austin, Texas, native went from half-seriously uploading songs to social media to becoming one of country music’s most in-demanded live draws. On the strength of a pair of EPs — including Songs in the Gravel that dropped in March — Gossett has consistently played to capacity crowds in the U.S. and abroad. In March, he performed his first show with a band with a high-profile slot on Rolling Stone’s...

Update: [7:45 Pm Et]: Hot Docs announced that the festival’s artistic director Hussein Currimbhoy stepped down from his role on March 20 “due to personal reasons,” the festival told IndieWire in a statement following the mass exodus of programmers on Monday.

The festival said Currimbhoy was “fundamental in programming this year’s Festival” and that Heather Haynes, festival director, will lead the programming department ahead of the festival next month.

The statement said merely, “Regrettably, some members of the programming team have decided not to participate in this year’s Festival. We thank them for their contributions.” It did not mention any of the individuals by name.

“We look forward to celebrating this year’s films with our audiences and bringing them together with filmmakers to share their important stories.”

Currimbhoy, who had stints at Sundance, Sheffield DocFest, the Melbourne Film Festival, and more, was named artistic director in November 2023 shortly after...

By any measure, Shane Smith and the Saints are in the midst of the sort of career-altering breakthrough that launches Texas bar bands into amphitheaters, music halls, and the top lines of festival posters.

Start with the tour. This spring, the Saints will play the Grand Ole Opry, headline Red Rocks Amphitheatre for the second time in a year — with 49 Winchester and Hayes Carll on the bill — and spend a week touring Europe with Tanner Usrey opening.

There’s also the record. Norther hits stores and streaming on March 1. It...

Just weeks after the company he founded entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy last May, Shane Smith jetted to the French Riviera. But this wasn’t a vacation for the 54-year-old flamboyant former Vice CEO to drown his sorrows. Smith landed in Cannes on a mission to save the media company that he had started as a scrappy punk music magazine in Montreal three decades ago from the financial scrap heap.

Smith, the brash face of Vice, had been quietly operating behind the scenes since stepping aside as CEO in 2018. In his new capacity as executive chairman, he worked the phones and hustled for deals as only he knew how. Now, accompanied by his chief of staff, Alon Soran, he was at Cannes Lions, the annual advertising confab that attracts the monied set looking to do business, desperate to ensure the company he had built didn’t disappear into liquidation and irrelevancy.

In...

Vice has a new Executive Chairman.

The youth-skewing network has named Michael Lang to the position. Lang is a former CEO of Miramax, was part of the team that launched Hulu, where he was a founding board member, and has worked for companies including Disney, Fox, Universal Music and Discovery.

He was most recently CEO of Pixel United, a mobile games business and joins Vice from the role of Operating Partner at Fortress, the company that acquired it out of bankruptcy earlier this year.

It is the latest change in personnel at the company after Co-CEO Hozefa Lokhandwala exited.

In an internal memo to staff, seen by Deadline, Bruce Dixon, who is now sole CEO, said that Lang will “continue the critical restructuring work” and help the “long-term goal of positioning Vice Media for financial stability and future growth”.

In the note, Dixon said that Lang knows co-founder Shane Smith...

Hussain Currimbhoy is the new Artistic Director at Toronto’s Hot Docs.

The filmmaker takes the helm from Shane Smith, who left in June. Currimbhoy will begin his role immediately. He’ll lead programming for the upcoming 2024 Hot Docs Festival, held between April 25-May 5 in Canada next year.

The job also gives him responsibility for Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival, Toronto’s Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema and Docs for Schools, the organization’s national educational program.

Currimbhoy was born in Toronto and has worked as a film producer, director and film curator since 2002. He was executive producer on feature documentaries such as And, Towards Happy Alleys, Praying For Armageddon, Tomorrow’s Freedom and The Beloved and was the Cmp’s Director of Investment and Global Strategy.

As a film programer he has worked for the likes of Sundance Film Festival, Sheffield DocFest, Melbourne International Film Festival, Nordisk Panorama Film Festival,...

Hussain Currimbhoy has been named as the new artistic director of the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival, while Heather Haynes is promoted to director of festival programming.

The new executive moves follows former ABC News/Disney exec Marie Nelson being named president of Hot Docs in May 2023, replacing Chris McDonald, who first as executive director and then as president led the Hot Docs festival for 25 years.

Currimbhoy’s appointment follows other succession moves at North America’s largest documentary festival out of Toronto. In mid-2021, executive director Brett Hendrie left Hot Docs after eight years in the post. His successor, Heather Conway, lasted only five months as executive director and co-president of the Canadian documentary festival.

Currimbhoy replaces Shane Smith, who left Hot Docs as artistic director in June 2023 after eight years in the post. “It is an absolute honor to take up this position with one of my favorite film festivals,...

Canadian producer Hussain Currimbhoy has been appointed, effective immediately

Canadian producer Hussain Currimbhoy has been appointed artistic director of Toronto’s Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival.

Shane Smith departed from the role in June after eight years and Currimbhoy will assume the position immediately. In the role, he will oversee programming for the film festival in addition to Toronto’s Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema and educational programme Docs for Schools.

Currimbhoy is a producer, director and film curator with credits on Praying For Armageddon; And, Towards Happy Alleys; and Venice 2023 premiere Hollywoodgate.

In the festival world, he has worked for Sundance Film Festival,...