2026 looks ominous for media, from Hollywood to journalism
NPR••entertainment
Key Points:
- The media landscape in 2026 faces significant challenges, including misinformation, concentrated ownership by wealthy business groups, and political pressures that threaten journalistic independence and public trust.
- The potential acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Netflix or Paramount raises concerns about monopolistic control, impacts on the film and streaming industries, and the future of news outlets like CNN, with both outcomes posing risks to consumers and media diversity.
- Traditional news organizations, exemplified by CBS News, are undergoing leadership changes that may align news coverage with specific ideological agendas, potentially undermining journalistic standards and viewer trust.
- The Trump administration's rhetoric on race and diversity presents ongoing challenges for news outlets in reporting on racism and discrimination, requiring balanced coverage that resists prejudice and supports informed
