#MAGFAB: Brad Pitt and the Mavericks of Hollywood for ESQUIRE Magazine
The first in ESQUIRE’s annual September issue Mavericks of Hollywood portfolio, cover star Brad Pitt.
In A Monday with Brad Pitt, ESQUIRE’s Ryan D’Agostino spends a rare and revealing afternoon with Brad Pitt and his two dogs, chatting with a star at the peak of his powers who still needs to feel fiercely challenged and alive when he works – and who has more on his mind that we ever expected.
ESQUIRE’s September cover story featuring Maverick of Hollywood Brad Pitt is on Esquire.com now and will be available by August 25 everywhere magazines are sold.
Pitt on no longer being sober: “I was sober for seven years. And then I got back off the wagon.” Little laugh. He raises his famous opposing-diacritic eyebrows and holds a finger up: “In a more restrained manner. I got overconfident a couple times, went, Yep, nope, not good for me. Not in big quantities.”
Pitt on a difficult period in his life involving “family stuff”: “I was never suicidal in any way. It just was not my makeup. In fact, if I have any afflictions, it’s probably being a congenital optimist. Which has helped many times, and it’s also gotten me—I’ve walked foolishly head-on into a Mack truck because of my optimism. Or, as my forever-funny friend David Fincher will say, Yeah, you see the glass as half full, but it’s half full of urine. Anyway, I’ve never been suicidal except for one little period. And in that one little period, I just thought—I just couldn’t—just didn’t see a way out. The pain was so oppressive that—I wasn’t going to act on this, but I could feel—I could feel the cold steel of the bullet in my head, and it felt like relief. And I thought, Oh, okay, now I understand—I understand suicide, in the sense that it’s just relief. It’s just looking for relief from the pain. But I also think we have incredible survival instincts. And for me, that immediately kicked in, but it was just . . .” He pauses, his head kind of rolling around on his neck, grappling, groping. “Yeah. Like, listen: This sh*t ain’t easy.” He stares at me. “And you’re talking to a guy who won the lottery.”
Pitt on his fifties: “God, I want my fifties back,” he says, locking in on me a second. “I would do more. Your fifties are just—man, anything that’s on your mind, go. Go attack it. Go attack it now.”
Pitt on bad acting: “Bad acting drives me crazy. It’s why I can’t watch porn.”
Pitt on the use of AI to create visual effects for movies: “There’s a lot of pushback against AI, but AI is going to be the very thing that, if used as a tool, is going to help these mid-budget films, forty- to ninety-million-dollar budgeted films, get made,” he says.
Pitt on grief: “Grief, if you survive it, leaves a gaping hole, but it also leaves profound beauty. It’s an aching beauty, but it’s beauty.”
In A Monday with Brad Pitt, ESQUIRE’s Ryan D’Agostino spends a rare and revealing afternoon with Brad Pitt and his two dogs, chatting with a star at the peak of his powers who still needs to feel fiercely challenged and alive when he works – and who has more on his mind that we ever expected.
ESQUIRE’s September cover story featuring Maverick of Hollywood Brad Pitt is on Esquire.com now and will be available by August 25 everywhere magazines are sold.
Pitt on no longer being sober: “I was sober for seven years. And then I got back off the wagon.” Little laugh. He raises his famous opposing-diacritic eyebrows and holds a finger up: “In a more restrained manner. I got overconfident a couple times, went, Yep, nope, not good for me. Not in big quantities.”
Pitt on his fifties: “God, I want my fifties back,” he says, locking in on me a second. “I would do more. Your fifties are just—man, anything that’s on your mind, go. Go attack it. Go attack it now.”
Pitt on bad acting: “Bad acting drives me crazy. It’s why I can’t watch porn.”
Pitt on the use of AI to create visual effects for movies: “There’s a lot of pushback against AI, but AI is going to be the very thing that, if used as a tool, is going to help these mid-budget films, forty- to ninety-million-dollar budgeted films, get made,” he says.
Pitt on grief: “Grief, if you survive it, leaves a gaping hole, but it also leaves profound beauty. It’s an aching beauty, but it’s beauty.”
#RHOA: Cynthia Bailey Reacts After Andy Cohen Appears To Reveal ‘RHOA’ Cast
Cynthia Bailey confirmed her return to The Real Housewives of Atlanta for Season 18 after Andy Cohen announced the cast details.
See more
American TV personality Andy Cohen has been making headlines, mainly because of The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
Recently, the show host revealed the cast details for The Real Housewives of Atlanta, and Cynthia Bailey has now broken her silence on the announcement.
Cynthia Bailey opened up about reclaiming her peach for RHOA Season 18
Recently, the 59-year-old TV personality appeared on the Humble Brag Podcast with Crystal Kung Minkoff, where she discussed RHOA.
While reacting to Andy Cohen's comments, Cynthia Bailey shared that everyone would be returning.
Bailey said, "I definitely saw him say that this was the cast, and there was a photo I was in, so I am a part of that as well."
"You heard it here, Cynthia's back, obviously, Andy said it first," she added after laughing
The podcaster and actress further shared that she had the most fun during filming. Amid these discussions, she revealed that many people have been asking whether she has a desire to return as a full-time cast member of The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA).
Cynthia Bailey responded by saying that her current position is her "sweet spot" and that she is not looking for any casting upgrade at the moment.
According to the Blast, Cynthia said, "I'm not saying that I won't ever because I'm not an idiot. I'm not gonna say that. I may wake up next week and say [change my mind]."
"But I love the space that I'm in now," Cynthia Bailey concluded after claiming she invented 'The Friend Contract'
Talking about The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Season 17's multi-part reunion is currently wrapping up. As for Season 18, although updates and buzz surrounding the cast have been circulating, an official premiere date has not been announced yet. However, Season 18 will also see executive producer Andy Cohen returning as the host.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON CYNTHIA BAILEY RECLAIMING HER PEACH FOR RHOA SEASON 18?
See more
American TV personality Andy Cohen has been making headlines, mainly because of The Real Housewives of Atlanta.
Recently, the show host revealed the cast details for The Real Housewives of Atlanta, and Cynthia Bailey has now broken her silence on the announcement.
Cynthia Bailey opened up about reclaiming her peach for RHOA Season 18
Recently, the 59-year-old TV personality appeared on the Humble Brag Podcast with Crystal Kung Minkoff, where she discussed RHOA.
While reacting to Andy Cohen's comments, Cynthia Bailey shared that everyone would be returning.
Bailey said, "I definitely saw him say that this was the cast, and there was a photo I was in, so I am a part of that as well."
"You heard it here, Cynthia's back, obviously, Andy said it first," she added after laughing
The podcaster and actress further shared that she had the most fun during filming. Amid these discussions, she revealed that many people have been asking whether she has a desire to return as a full-time cast member of The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA).
Cynthia Bailey responded by saying that her current position is her "sweet spot" and that she is not looking for any casting upgrade at the moment.
According to the Blast, Cynthia said, "I'm not saying that I won't ever because I'm not an idiot. I'm not gonna say that. I may wake up next week and say [change my mind]."
"But I love the space that I'm in now," Cynthia Bailey concluded after claiming she invented 'The Friend Contract'
Talking about The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Season 17's multi-part reunion is currently wrapping up. As for Season 18, although updates and buzz surrounding the cast have been circulating, an official premiere date has not been announced yet. However, Season 18 will also see executive producer Andy Cohen returning as the host.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON CYNTHIA BAILEY RECLAIMING HER PEACH FOR RHOA SEASON 18?
#NewMusic from Sy’rai Releases New Single “Bullseye (Nice Shot)”
Rising R&B singer and songwriter Sy’rai has officially released her latest single, “Bullseye.” Available today across all major digital streaming platforms, the deeply personal track delves into the emotional complexities of heartbreak, betrayal, and the ongoing process of healing.
“Bullseye” narrates the emotional fallout of a relationship ending in unexpected pain. Through a blend of soulful vocal delivery and transparent lyricism, Sy’rai explores the jarring experience of feeling targeted by a once-trusted partner. The song serves as a poignant reflection on how the deepest emotional wounds are often inflicted by those we hold closest.
Discussing the vulnerability that inspired the track, Sy’rai shared:
“‘Bullseye’ is about that moment when you realize the person you loved hurt you in a way you never imagined. It’s about feeling blindsided, questioning everything, and learning how to pick yourself back up. I hope people hear this song and know they’re not alone in what they’re feeling.”
LISTEN HERE:
The release of “Bullseye” marks another significant milestone in Sy’rai’s ongoing artistic evolution. By consistently choosing to lead with vulnerability, the rising artist continues to translate real-life experiences into emotionally resonant R&B. The new single highlights both her growing vocal maturity and her gift for honest songwriting, reinforcing her ability to forge authentic connections with listeners navigating similar emotional journeys.
“Bullseye” is available to stream and download now on all major digital platforms.
“Bullseye” narrates the emotional fallout of a relationship ending in unexpected pain. Through a blend of soulful vocal delivery and transparent lyricism, Sy’rai explores the jarring experience of feeling targeted by a once-trusted partner. The song serves as a poignant reflection on how the deepest emotional wounds are often inflicted by those we hold closest.
Discussing the vulnerability that inspired the track, Sy’rai shared:
“‘Bullseye’ is about that moment when you realize the person you loved hurt you in a way you never imagined. It’s about feeling blindsided, questioning everything, and learning how to pick yourself back up. I hope people hear this song and know they’re not alone in what they’re feeling.”
LISTEN HERE:
The release of “Bullseye” marks another significant milestone in Sy’rai’s ongoing artistic evolution. By consistently choosing to lead with vulnerability, the rising artist continues to translate real-life experiences into emotionally resonant R&B. The new single highlights both her growing vocal maturity and her gift for honest songwriting, reinforcing her ability to forge authentic connections with listeners navigating similar emotional journeys.
“Bullseye” is available to stream and download now on all major digital platforms.
#HipHopNews: DJ Spinderella gets candid about where she stands with Salt-N-Pepa before tour reunion
DJ Spinderella says she and Salt-N-Pepa are in a better place as the pioneering hip-hop trio prepares to reunite on tour. The update marks a major shift after Spinderella once said their relationship was “over” amid a public dispute and Salt-N-Pepa later pushed back on claims. Now, DJ Spinderella and Salt-N-Pepa are preparing to share a touring stage again.
Speaking with People, Deidra “DJ Spinderella” Roper said she is “in a good space” with Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton today, while acknowledging that their decades-long sisterhood has had difficult periods.
“We’re in a good space today. I said today. We’re in a good space today,” Spinderella shared. “It’s a sisterhood, and sometimes it’s good, and sometimes it’s not so good.”
“This is the first time we’ll be on stage on a tour in years for me. They’ve been doing shows. I’ve been doing my own thing, but us coming together, this is a really big moment. So we’re doing okay. We’re doing good,” she added.
The reunion comes as Salt-N-Pepa prepares to co-headline the “It’s Iconic Tour” with TLC, with En Vogue appearing as special guests. The tour is scheduled to begin Aug. 15, and Spinderella told the outlet it will be the first time in years that she has toured onstage with Salt and Pepa.
Their renewed partnership follows years of public tension. In 2019, Spinderella said she had been terminated from Salt-N-Pepa by email. She later sued James and Denton over allegations including unpaid royalties, breach of contract, fraud and intentional misrepresentation. The dispute ultimately ended in a confidential settlement.
The tension resurfaced in 2021 when Spinderella criticized the Lifetime “Salt-N-Pepa” biopic, saying she had been wrongfully excluded from the project. She later told Billboard that she would consider reuniting only if she was respected and treated fairly.
Five years later, the tone is markedly different.
Spinderella told People that she is concentrating on her mental and physical health before the tour, including avoiding negative energy and trying to stay healthy. She also reflected on Salt-N-Pepa’s legacy of inspiring women, noting that women have told her she inspired them to become DJs.
DJ Spinderella and Salt-N-Pepa were also inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, another recognition of their influence on hip-hop and women in music.
Speaking with People, Deidra “DJ Spinderella” Roper said she is “in a good space” with Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton today, while acknowledging that their decades-long sisterhood has had difficult periods.
“We’re in a good space today. I said today. We’re in a good space today,” Spinderella shared. “It’s a sisterhood, and sometimes it’s good, and sometimes it’s not so good.”
“This is the first time we’ll be on stage on a tour in years for me. They’ve been doing shows. I’ve been doing my own thing, but us coming together, this is a really big moment. So we’re doing okay. We’re doing good,” she added.
The reunion comes as Salt-N-Pepa prepares to co-headline the “It’s Iconic Tour” with TLC, with En Vogue appearing as special guests. The tour is scheduled to begin Aug. 15, and Spinderella told the outlet it will be the first time in years that she has toured onstage with Salt and Pepa.
Their renewed partnership follows years of public tension. In 2019, Spinderella said she had been terminated from Salt-N-Pepa by email. She later sued James and Denton over allegations including unpaid royalties, breach of contract, fraud and intentional misrepresentation. The dispute ultimately ended in a confidential settlement.
The tension resurfaced in 2021 when Spinderella criticized the Lifetime “Salt-N-Pepa” biopic, saying she had been wrongfully excluded from the project. She later told Billboard that she would consider reuniting only if she was respected and treated fairly.
Five years later, the tone is markedly different.
Spinderella told People that she is concentrating on her mental and physical health before the tour, including avoiding negative energy and trying to stay healthy. She also reflected on Salt-N-Pepa’s legacy of inspiring women, noting that women have told her she inspired them to become DJs.
DJ Spinderella and Salt-N-Pepa were also inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, another recognition of their influence on hip-hop and women in music.
Brandy Brings Her Voice To ‘A Different World’ Theme Song For Netflix Sequel
Today, Netflix has tapped Brandy Norwood to perform the theme song for its upcoming A Different World sequel series.
The Grammy Award-winning singer will record a new version of the familiar theme from the original sitcom. Dawnn Lewis, who played Jaleesa Vinson on the series, co-wrote the song, which was performed by several singers during the show’s six-season run, including Aretha Franklin. Lewis will also appear as a guest star in the new series. “It feels amazing to be a part of the legacy,” Brandy said in a statement to TUDUM. “I just hope I can do it as much justice as Ms. Franklin.”
“Singing this iconic theme song for A Different World means everything to me,” the singer explained. “It was one of those shows that I had to watch every time it came on. I remember the song and how it made me feel.”
The 10-episode comedy brings viewers back to Hillman College, this time following Deborah Wayne, played by Maleah Joi Moon. Deborah is the youngest daughter of Whitley Gilbert and Dwayne Wayne, the characters made famous by Jasmine Guy and Kadeem Hardison. The story begins as she arrives at the fictional HBCU and starts college alongside a new class of students.
Guy and Hardison are among the original cast members returning for the sequel. Cree Summer will reprise her role as Freddie Brooks, while Darryl M. Bell returns as Ron Johnson. Newcomers Alijah Kai, Cornell Young IV, Jordan Aaron Hall, Kennedi Reece and Chibuikem Uche round out the main cast.
Felicia Pride created the series and serves as showrunner and executive producer. Debbie Allen, who directed several episodes of the original sitcom, returns as an executive producer and directs the premiere. Tom Werner, Reggie Rock Bythewood and Gina Prince-Bythewood are also executive producers.
The original A Different World debuted in 1987 and ran for six seasons, following students as they made their way through life at Hillman. Brandy’s rendition of the theme will introduce a new generation of characters while providing another connection to the series that came before it.
Today, Netflix has tapped Brandy Norwood to perform the theme song for its upcoming A Different World sequel series.
The Grammy Award-winning singer will record a new version of the familiar theme from the original sitcom. Dawnn Lewis, who played Jaleesa Vinson on the series, co-wrote the song, which was performed by several singers during the show’s six-season run, including Aretha Franklin. Lewis will also appear as a guest star in the new series. “It feels amazing to be a part of the legacy,” Brandy said in a statement to TUDUM. “I just hope I can do it as much justice as Ms. Franklin.”
“Singing this iconic theme song for A Different World means everything to me,” the singer explained. “It was one of those shows that I had to watch every time it came on. I remember the song and how it made me feel.”
The 10-episode comedy brings viewers back to Hillman College, this time following Deborah Wayne, played by Maleah Joi Moon. Deborah is the youngest daughter of Whitley Gilbert and Dwayne Wayne, the characters made famous by Jasmine Guy and Kadeem Hardison. The story begins as she arrives at the fictional HBCU and starts college alongside a new class of students.
Guy and Hardison are among the original cast members returning for the sequel. Cree Summer will reprise her role as Freddie Brooks, while Darryl M. Bell returns as Ron Johnson. Newcomers Alijah Kai, Cornell Young IV, Jordan Aaron Hall, Kennedi Reece and Chibuikem Uche round out the main cast.
Felicia Pride created the series and serves as showrunner and executive producer. Debbie Allen, who directed several episodes of the original sitcom, returns as an executive producer and directs the premiere. Tom Werner, Reggie Rock Bythewood and Gina Prince-Bythewood are also executive producers.
The original A Different World debuted in 1987 and ran for six seasons, following students as they made their way through life at Hillman. Brandy’s rendition of the theme will introduce a new generation of characters while providing another connection to the series that came before it.
Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” Profits At Risk Over Unlicensed Sample
Beyoncé’s facing a copyright lawsuit over a sample used on her “Renaissance” album track “Alien Superstar” without proper licensing from the rights holder.
Beyoncé is facing a legal battle over a sample used on her 2022 Renaissance album track “Alien Superstar.”
Hirose Enterprise and producer Shuji Hirose filed suit claiming they own the rights to a song called “Moonraker” performed by John Holiday, and that Beyoncé’s team sampled the spoken-word introduction without proper licensing.
The lawsuit reveals a licensing gap that’s raising questions about how the sample was cleared.
According to court documents, Beyoncé’s team never obtained a license before releasing the album but secured one from Holiday himself weeks after the album’s release.
The problem is that Hirose claims Holiday transferred his entire interest in the song decades ago, meaning he had no authority to grant permission.
According to TMZ, the company says it put Beyoncé’s company on notice about the infringement, but the record continued selling.
The case centers on whether Holiday actually owned the rights he licensed to Beyoncé’s team. Hirose is seeking an injunction to stop the song from generating revenue and is asking for unspecified damages.
This isn’t the first time a major artist has faced sample-related legal issues, but the timing here is particularly interesting: the licensing occurred after the album’s release rather than before.
What makes this case notable is the procedural complexity around who actually controls the rights to “Moonraker.”
If Hirose’s claims are accurate, then Holiday may have breached his own obligations by licensing material he no longer owned.
Beyoncé’s Renaissance album has been one of the most successful projects of her career, and “Alien Superstar” remains a fan favorite.
Beyoncé is facing a legal battle over a sample used on her 2022 Renaissance album track “Alien Superstar.”
Hirose Enterprise and producer Shuji Hirose filed suit claiming they own the rights to a song called “Moonraker” performed by John Holiday, and that Beyoncé’s team sampled the spoken-word introduction without proper licensing.
The lawsuit reveals a licensing gap that’s raising questions about how the sample was cleared.
According to court documents, Beyoncé’s team never obtained a license before releasing the album but secured one from Holiday himself weeks after the album’s release.
The problem is that Hirose claims Holiday transferred his entire interest in the song decades ago, meaning he had no authority to grant permission.
According to TMZ, the company says it put Beyoncé’s company on notice about the infringement, but the record continued selling.
The case centers on whether Holiday actually owned the rights he licensed to Beyoncé’s team. Hirose is seeking an injunction to stop the song from generating revenue and is asking for unspecified damages.
This isn’t the first time a major artist has faced sample-related legal issues, but the timing here is particularly interesting: the licensing occurred after the album’s release rather than before.
What makes this case notable is the procedural complexity around who actually controls the rights to “Moonraker.”
If Hirose’s claims are accurate, then Holiday may have breached his own obligations by licensing material he no longer owned.
Beyoncé’s Renaissance album has been one of the most successful projects of her career, and “Alien Superstar” remains a fan favorite.
Michael B. Jordan & Singer RAYE ‘Really Like Each Other’ After Multiple Dates, Source Claims
A source close to RAYE claims she and Michael B. Jordan “really like each other” after going on several dates.
The singer, 28, and the 39-year-old “Creed” actor sparked romance rumors after fans spotted them on rides together at Six Flags Magic Mountain near Los Angeles on Friday, August 7. However, the source said their amusement park visit was not their first outing.
“Michael and RAYE have been on a couple dinner dates before this,” the source told PEOPLE. “Things are new between them, but they really like each other. RAYE tells friends that Michael is her type and that he is warm and kind.”
Photos showed Jordan and RAYE sitting beside each other on a roller coaster and talking. A video captured RAYE raising her hands before another ride and nudging Jordan to follow her lead.
A second source insisted the pair are still “just friends” and attended Six Flags with a group of people.
Neither Jordan nor RAYE has commented on the speculation, and their representatives have not responded. Jordan previously dated Lori Harvey from 2020 to 2022, while RAYE has never confirmed a relationship.
What are your thoughts on these two allegedly dating?
A source close to RAYE claims she and Michael B. Jordan “really like each other” after going on several dates.
The singer, 28, and the 39-year-old “Creed” actor sparked romance rumors after fans spotted them on rides together at Six Flags Magic Mountain near Los Angeles on Friday, August 7. However, the source said their amusement park visit was not their first outing.
“Michael and RAYE have been on a couple dinner dates before this,” the source told PEOPLE. “Things are new between them, but they really like each other. RAYE tells friends that Michael is her type and that he is warm and kind.”
Photos showed Jordan and RAYE sitting beside each other on a roller coaster and talking. A video captured RAYE raising her hands before another ride and nudging Jordan to follow her lead.
A second source insisted the pair are still “just friends” and attended Six Flags with a group of people.
Neither Jordan nor RAYE has commented on the speculation, and their representatives have not responded. Jordan previously dated Lori Harvey from 2020 to 2022, while RAYE has never confirmed a relationship.
What are your thoughts on these two allegedly dating?
California AG Accuses Paramount of ‘Blackmail’ Over Warner Bros. Merger
Paramount CEO David Ellison is reportedly threatening to start moving the company out of California as soon as October 1 if the state doesn’t resolve its antitrust case blocking Paramount’s planned $110 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery, a deal already cleared by federal and international regulators.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta blasted the move as “blackmail,” vowing to keep fighting what he calls an “illegal merger” that would raise costs, shrink options, and cut jobs in Hollywood even as Paramount faces a looming “ticking fee” of about $7 million per day if the merger isn’t closed by October.
The stalled takeover has already rattled the industry, with Warner Bros. struggling to retain talent—Quinta Brunson just moved her overall deal to Disney’s 20th Television—and creatives hesitating to commit long-term while thousands of jobs and Warner’s entire studio and streaming future hang in the balance.
The fight over Paramount's stalled Warner Bros. Discovery takeover just escalated from the courtroom to California itself.
According to Bloomberg, California Attorney General Rob Bonta accused Paramount of "blackmail" on Tuesday, August 11, following reports that CEO David Ellison is prepared to begin moving the company out of the state if officials don't negotiate a resolution to the antitrust case blocking its $110 billion Warner Bros. merger.
"In a span of weeks, Paramount agreed to halt the merger until a court decision or until June 2027, asked for a November trial, and is now back with another attempt to blackmail the state into letting an illegal deal through," Bonta wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
This illegal merger will result in higher costs, fewer options, and fewer people making movies.
My office remains committed to stopping illegal consolidation and protecting a vibrant California economy for businesses that play by the rules.
Ellison has discussed a five-year plan that could begin moving Paramount's operations out of California as soon as October 1, starting with its Los Angeles headquarters. The reported plan comes as Paramount faces mounting costs from the delayed Warner Bros. transaction and uncertainty over how long the court fight could continue.
October carries a particularly expensive deadline. If the merger remains unfinished, Paramount will begin accruing a "ticking fee" for Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders worth approximately $7 million per day. The fee is designed to compensate investors for delays in closing the transaction.
Bonta isn't backing down.
"This illegal merger will result in higher costs, fewer options, and fewer people making movies," he wrote. "My office remains committed to stopping illegal consolidation and protecting a vibrant California economy for businesses that play by the rules."
Paramount has not publicly responded to Bonta's latest comments.
The clash follows a federal judge's decision to pause the merger after California and 11 other states sued to block it under federal antitrust law. The states contend that combining Paramount and Warner Bros. would eliminate a major Hollywood competitor and concentrate too much control over theatrical releases and cable programming.
That legal limbo is already affecting both companies. Warner Bros. has faced difficulties retaining talent as the merger drags on, while thousands of jobs could be eliminated if the companies ultimately combine.
Quinta Brunson recently moved her overall deal from Warner Bros. Television to Disney's 20th Television, and creatives have raised concerns about committing long-term projects while the company's ownership remains unsettled.
The California fight is the latest obstacle in a takeover that has already survived a remarkable series of challenges.
Paramount initially fought Netflix for Warner Bros. Discovery after Netflix reached an agreement to acquire Warner's studio and streaming operations. David Ellison's company continued raising its offer until Warner ultimately accepted Paramount's proposal for the entire business. Netflix declined to match the final price and exited with a $2.8 billion breakup fee.
Paramount subsequently secured Warner Bros. Discovery shareholder approval and cleared major regulatory reviews in the United States and abroad. Britain recently approved the acquisition, following clearances from the European Union and other international regulators.
But the multistate lawsuit has stopped Paramount from converting those approvals into an actual closing.
The delay also comes as Warner employees and creatives remain caught between two corporate structures. Warner continues producing films and television, negotiating talent deals, and operating HBO Max while contractual restrictions tied to the pending merger limit some long-term business decisions.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta blasted the move as “blackmail,” vowing to keep fighting what he calls an “illegal merger” that would raise costs, shrink options, and cut jobs in Hollywood even as Paramount faces a looming “ticking fee” of about $7 million per day if the merger isn’t closed by October.
The stalled takeover has already rattled the industry, with Warner Bros. struggling to retain talent—Quinta Brunson just moved her overall deal to Disney’s 20th Television—and creatives hesitating to commit long-term while thousands of jobs and Warner’s entire studio and streaming future hang in the balance.
The fight over Paramount's stalled Warner Bros. Discovery takeover just escalated from the courtroom to California itself.
According to Bloomberg, California Attorney General Rob Bonta accused Paramount of "blackmail" on Tuesday, August 11, following reports that CEO David Ellison is prepared to begin moving the company out of the state if officials don't negotiate a resolution to the antitrust case blocking its $110 billion Warner Bros. merger.
"In a span of weeks, Paramount agreed to halt the merger until a court decision or until June 2027, asked for a November trial, and is now back with another attempt to blackmail the state into letting an illegal deal through," Bonta wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
This illegal merger will result in higher costs, fewer options, and fewer people making movies.
My office remains committed to stopping illegal consolidation and protecting a vibrant California economy for businesses that play by the rules.
Ellison has discussed a five-year plan that could begin moving Paramount's operations out of California as soon as October 1, starting with its Los Angeles headquarters. The reported plan comes as Paramount faces mounting costs from the delayed Warner Bros. transaction and uncertainty over how long the court fight could continue.
October carries a particularly expensive deadline. If the merger remains unfinished, Paramount will begin accruing a "ticking fee" for Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders worth approximately $7 million per day. The fee is designed to compensate investors for delays in closing the transaction.
Bonta isn't backing down.
"This illegal merger will result in higher costs, fewer options, and fewer people making movies," he wrote. "My office remains committed to stopping illegal consolidation and protecting a vibrant California economy for businesses that play by the rules."
Paramount has not publicly responded to Bonta's latest comments.
The clash follows a federal judge's decision to pause the merger after California and 11 other states sued to block it under federal antitrust law. The states contend that combining Paramount and Warner Bros. would eliminate a major Hollywood competitor and concentrate too much control over theatrical releases and cable programming.
That legal limbo is already affecting both companies. Warner Bros. has faced difficulties retaining talent as the merger drags on, while thousands of jobs could be eliminated if the companies ultimately combine.
Quinta Brunson recently moved her overall deal from Warner Bros. Television to Disney's 20th Television, and creatives have raised concerns about committing long-term projects while the company's ownership remains unsettled.
The California fight is the latest obstacle in a takeover that has already survived a remarkable series of challenges.
Paramount initially fought Netflix for Warner Bros. Discovery after Netflix reached an agreement to acquire Warner's studio and streaming operations. David Ellison's company continued raising its offer until Warner ultimately accepted Paramount's proposal for the entire business. Netflix declined to match the final price and exited with a $2.8 billion breakup fee.
Paramount subsequently secured Warner Bros. Discovery shareholder approval and cleared major regulatory reviews in the United States and abroad. Britain recently approved the acquisition, following clearances from the European Union and other international regulators.
But the multistate lawsuit has stopped Paramount from converting those approvals into an actual closing.
The delay also comes as Warner employees and creatives remain caught between two corporate structures. Warner continues producing films and television, negotiating talent deals, and operating HBO Max while contractual restrictions tied to the pending merger limit some long-term business decisions.
'Love & Marriage: Huntsville' Season 12 Trailer Promises a Shocking New Arrival
Love & Marriage: Huntsville returns to OWN for Season 12 on September 12 at 8 p.m. ET/PT, with Destiny Payton, Martell Holt, Kimmi and Maurice Scott, LaTisha and Marsau Scott, and Nell and Chris Fletcher all back amid new wins, losses, and a surprise arrival that shakes up the group.
Martell kicks off the season riding high after earning his builder’s license, but a “surprise introduction to the group” threatens his bond with Destiny and destabilizes the cast’s long-standing dynamics.
As the long-running series leans into “emotional breakthroughs” and “hard truths,” Marsau and LaTisha juggle a 20th anniversary and a major property loss, Nell becomes a full-time caregiver, Maurice and Kimmi adjust to an empty nest, and the show rides ratings growth and an AAFCA win into its new season.
The Huntsville crew is suited up, camera-ready—and headed straight for another collision. OWN has released the official cast photos and first teaser for Season 12 of Love & Marriage: Huntsville, returning Saturday, September 12, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Destiny Payton, Kimmi and Maurice Scott, Martell Holt, Nell and Chris Fletcher, and LaTisha and Marsau Scott are all back as new wins, painful losses, and one surprise arrival threaten to rearrange the group.
Per Deadline, Martell opens the season on a high after earning his builder’s license, marking a major step forward in his career. But the celebration quickly gives way to tension when “a surprise introduction to the group” disrupts the existing dynamic. The fallout could hit his friendship with Destiny especially hard, putting one of the cast’s closest connections under immediate pressure.
Created by Carlos King, Love & Marriage: Huntsville began in 2019 with successful Black couples joining forces to revitalize Huntsville, Alabama, through a real estate venture known as the Comeback Group. The deals soon became only part of the story.
Over 11 seasons, the OWN hit has followed marriages breaking down, friendships shifting, families blending, and entrepreneurs attempting to protect their businesses while their private lives play out on television.
Season 12 raises the stakes across the board. Marsau and LaTisha are approaching their 20th wedding anniversary, but the milestone comes as they absorb the devastating loss of their first residential investment property.
Nell becomes a full-time caregiver for her aging father, creating a new reality for her marriage to Chris. Maurice and Kimmi, meanwhile, are entering their empty-nest era while wrestling with concerns about Maurice’s son and his future.
OWN is promising “emotional breakthroughs, hard truths” and “authentic, deeply personal storytelling.”
The drama arrives with real momentum behind it. According to OWN, the show’s most recent season climbed by double digits across every key demographic compared with the previous season. It also ranked as Saturday night’s No. 1 original cable series among Black women ages 25 to 54.
The numbers are not its only win: Love & Marriage: Huntsville recently earned the African American Film Critics Association award for Outstanding Unscripted Series after previously receiving an NAACP Image Award nomination.
Kingdom Reign Entertainment and ITV America produce the series, with King, Jordana Hochman, Andrew Hoagland, Markus Burns, and Nisa Ahmad serving as executive producers.
Martell kicks off the season riding high after earning his builder’s license, but a “surprise introduction to the group” threatens his bond with Destiny and destabilizes the cast’s long-standing dynamics.
As the long-running series leans into “emotional breakthroughs” and “hard truths,” Marsau and LaTisha juggle a 20th anniversary and a major property loss, Nell becomes a full-time caregiver, Maurice and Kimmi adjust to an empty nest, and the show rides ratings growth and an AAFCA win into its new season.
The Huntsville crew is suited up, camera-ready—and headed straight for another collision. OWN has released the official cast photos and first teaser for Season 12 of Love & Marriage: Huntsville, returning Saturday, September 12, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Destiny Payton, Kimmi and Maurice Scott, Martell Holt, Nell and Chris Fletcher, and LaTisha and Marsau Scott are all back as new wins, painful losses, and one surprise arrival threaten to rearrange the group.
Per Deadline, Martell opens the season on a high after earning his builder’s license, marking a major step forward in his career. But the celebration quickly gives way to tension when “a surprise introduction to the group” disrupts the existing dynamic. The fallout could hit his friendship with Destiny especially hard, putting one of the cast’s closest connections under immediate pressure.
Created by Carlos King, Love & Marriage: Huntsville began in 2019 with successful Black couples joining forces to revitalize Huntsville, Alabama, through a real estate venture known as the Comeback Group. The deals soon became only part of the story.
Over 11 seasons, the OWN hit has followed marriages breaking down, friendships shifting, families blending, and entrepreneurs attempting to protect their businesses while their private lives play out on television.
Season 12 raises the stakes across the board. Marsau and LaTisha are approaching their 20th wedding anniversary, but the milestone comes as they absorb the devastating loss of their first residential investment property.
Nell becomes a full-time caregiver for her aging father, creating a new reality for her marriage to Chris. Maurice and Kimmi, meanwhile, are entering their empty-nest era while wrestling with concerns about Maurice’s son and his future.
OWN is promising “emotional breakthroughs, hard truths” and “authentic, deeply personal storytelling.”
The drama arrives with real momentum behind it. According to OWN, the show’s most recent season climbed by double digits across every key demographic compared with the previous season. It also ranked as Saturday night’s No. 1 original cable series among Black women ages 25 to 54.
The numbers are not its only win: Love & Marriage: Huntsville recently earned the African American Film Critics Association award for Outstanding Unscripted Series after previously receiving an NAACP Image Award nomination.
Kingdom Reign Entertainment and ITV America produce the series, with King, Jordana Hochman, Andrew Hoagland, Markus Burns, and Nisa Ahmad serving as executive producers.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Splits from Longtime Love Riley Roberts
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and longtime love Riley Roberts have called it quits.
On August 11), TMZ confirmed that the 36-year-old Congresswoman has split from the web designer. Puck‘s Chief Washington Correspondent Leigh Ann Caldwell, who was first to report the news, says that AOC and Riley actually split roughly two years ago.
The pair usually kept their relationship very private, and only made one public appearance together at the 2021 Met Gala. A year later in May 2022, AOC confirmed that she and Riley were engaged. At the time, she revealed that Riley popped the question while they were in Puerto Rico.
The two met as undergraduate students at Boston University, and have dated for several years. They met at BU’s Coffee & Conversations in 2011, a student town hall. They later broke up after school when he moved back to Arizona, and they rekindled their relationship in New York.
News of the split comes just one day after AOC revealed she is freezing her eggs and documenting her journey, which she admittedly described as “very daunting.” In her video, she made no mention of Riley as she spoke about the process.
On August 11), TMZ confirmed that the 36-year-old Congresswoman has split from the web designer. Puck‘s Chief Washington Correspondent Leigh Ann Caldwell, who was first to report the news, says that AOC and Riley actually split roughly two years ago.
The pair usually kept their relationship very private, and only made one public appearance together at the 2021 Met Gala. A year later in May 2022, AOC confirmed that she and Riley were engaged. At the time, she revealed that Riley popped the question while they were in Puerto Rico.
The two met as undergraduate students at Boston University, and have dated for several years. They met at BU’s Coffee & Conversations in 2011, a student town hall. They later broke up after school when he moved back to Arizona, and they rekindled their relationship in New York.
News of the split comes just one day after AOC revealed she is freezing her eggs and documenting her journey, which she admittedly described as “very daunting.” In her video, she made no mention of Riley as she spoke about the process.
Rod Stewart Cancels Tour as He Recovers After Undergoing Heart Procedure
Rod Stewart is recovering after a recent surgery. On Tuesday (August 11), the 81-year-old “Have I Told You Lately” singer announced that he was canceling the all of the upcoming concerts after successfully undergoing a routine coronary stent procedure.
“Doctors are pleased with his recovery, and Rod is doing very well and has returned to his normal daily activities,” Rod‘s rep shared in a statement with People. “On the advice of his doctors, he will take the next four weeks to recuperate and regain full fitness before returning to the stage. Unfortunately, this means he will be unable to continue his current tour dates.”
The Grammy winner was scheduled to be on One Last Time Tour through September 3 and had six Las Vegas residency dates set for late August.
Also in the statement, Rod said that following the heart procedure, he “already feeling better and very much on the mend.”
“I want to thank the doctors, nurses and everyone who has taken such wonderful care of me,” he said. “I’m deeply disappointed to miss these shows and sorry to let my fans down, but I look forward to getting back on stage and having a good time with you all again soon.”
The new health date comes just two days after Rod was forced to postpone a show in Cincinnati at the last minute due to “an unforeseen but minor medical procedure that required prompt attention.”
He also faced several other health woes while on tour. While performing in Utah in June, Rod was in the middle of performing when he abruptly stopped the show to use an oxygen tank onstage, nearly fainting.
Before that, Rod canceled a show in San Diego at the last minute after he was diagnosed with laryngitis. However, he faced a lot of backlash from fans when he attended a 2026 World Cup match just hours later.
Despite the health woes, Rod made it very clear in 2025 that he has no plans on retiring.
“I still enjoy what I’m doing. I love it,” he told People at the time. “You can tell it’s written all over my face. Absolutely love it.”
Rod Stewart is recovering after a recent surgery. On Tuesday (August 11), the 81-year-old “Have I Told You Lately” singer announced that he was canceling the all of the upcoming concerts after successfully undergoing a routine coronary stent procedure.
“Doctors are pleased with his recovery, and Rod is doing very well and has returned to his normal daily activities,” Rod‘s rep shared in a statement with People. “On the advice of his doctors, he will take the next four weeks to recuperate and regain full fitness before returning to the stage. Unfortunately, this means he will be unable to continue his current tour dates.”
The Grammy winner was scheduled to be on One Last Time Tour through September 3 and had six Las Vegas residency dates set for late August.
Also in the statement, Rod said that following the heart procedure, he “already feeling better and very much on the mend.”
“I want to thank the doctors, nurses and everyone who has taken such wonderful care of me,” he said. “I’m deeply disappointed to miss these shows and sorry to let my fans down, but I look forward to getting back on stage and having a good time with you all again soon.”
The new health date comes just two days after Rod was forced to postpone a show in Cincinnati at the last minute due to “an unforeseen but minor medical procedure that required prompt attention.”
He also faced several other health woes while on tour. While performing in Utah in June, Rod was in the middle of performing when he abruptly stopped the show to use an oxygen tank onstage, nearly fainting.
Before that, Rod canceled a show in San Diego at the last minute after he was diagnosed with laryngitis. However, he faced a lot of backlash from fans when he attended a 2026 World Cup match just hours later.
Despite the health woes, Rod made it very clear in 2025 that he has no plans on retiring.
“I still enjoy what I’m doing. I love it,” he told People at the time. “You can tell it’s written all over my face. Absolutely love it.”
Rihanna shares rare photos with all 3 kids on vacation
Rihanna took her three kids down memory lane with a sweet visit to the street she grew up on in Barbados.
On Monday, the musician posed alongside her sons RZA, 4, and Riot, 2, and 10-month-old daughter, Rocki Irish, while visiting Westbury New Road, which has been renamed Rihanna Drive.
"One minute I feel like that kid from Westbury … the next minute I'm bringing my own kids back to 'Rihanna Drive,'" she captioned sweet Instagram photos of herself and her little ones.
"Trippy how life works! And the Glory STILL and WILL ALWAYS belong to the Almighty Creator!!!" Rihanna, 38, added.
The hitmaker and her little ones beamed as they stood near a sign on the floor that reads "Rihanna."
The sign was gated off and placed in front of a colorful house.
The street was previously named Westbury New Road. Rihanna/Instagram
Barbados honored the Fenty Beauty founder with her own street name on the country's Independence Day in 2017.
Additionally, Rihanna also enjoyed some family time with her loved ones on board a luxury catamaran later on Monday.
The "Diamonds" songstress has been spending the past few weeks back in the Caribbean and stepped out to the Grand Kadooment Day parade for the 2026 Crop Over festival on Aug. 4.
Rihanna turned heads, wearing a massive jeweled headpiece and feathered wings designed by Lauren Austin.
The annual parade marks the end of the month-long harvest festival and concludes the sugar cane season.
During the celebration, which dates back to the 17th century, she danced with her brother Rorrey Fenty's band, Aura.
The couple have been together since 2020. Getty Images for Fenty Beauty & Fenty Skin
Earlier this month, Rihanna also threw Riot a Spider-Man-themed party for his 3rd birthday, per People.
The bash appeared to have occurred at her Barbados home.
The "Don't Stop the Music" singer shares her three kids with her boyfriend, A$AP Rocky, whom she started dating in 2020.
On Monday, the musician posed alongside her sons RZA, 4, and Riot, 2, and 10-month-old daughter, Rocki Irish, while visiting Westbury New Road, which has been renamed Rihanna Drive.
"One minute I feel like that kid from Westbury … the next minute I'm bringing my own kids back to 'Rihanna Drive,'" she captioned sweet Instagram photos of herself and her little ones.
"Trippy how life works! And the Glory STILL and WILL ALWAYS belong to the Almighty Creator!!!" Rihanna, 38, added.
The hitmaker and her little ones beamed as they stood near a sign on the floor that reads "Rihanna."
The sign was gated off and placed in front of a colorful house.
The street was previously named Westbury New Road. Rihanna/Instagram
Barbados honored the Fenty Beauty founder with her own street name on the country's Independence Day in 2017.
Additionally, Rihanna also enjoyed some family time with her loved ones on board a luxury catamaran later on Monday.
The "Diamonds" songstress has been spending the past few weeks back in the Caribbean and stepped out to the Grand Kadooment Day parade for the 2026 Crop Over festival on Aug. 4.
Rihanna turned heads, wearing a massive jeweled headpiece and feathered wings designed by Lauren Austin.
The annual parade marks the end of the month-long harvest festival and concludes the sugar cane season.
During the celebration, which dates back to the 17th century, she danced with her brother Rorrey Fenty's band, Aura.
The couple have been together since 2020. Getty Images for Fenty Beauty & Fenty Skin
Earlier this month, Rihanna also threw Riot a Spider-Man-themed party for his 3rd birthday, per People.
The bash appeared to have occurred at her Barbados home.
The "Don't Stop the Music" singer shares her three kids with her boyfriend, A$AP Rocky, whom she started dating in 2020.
Jaafar Jackson’s ‘Michael’ Sequel Salary Talks Reportedly Cause Family Tension
Jaafar Jackson is reportedly seeking a bigger payday to portray his uncle again after “Michael” became a billion-dollar blockbuster.
The 30-year-old actor is renegotiating his compensation as plans move forward for another film, according to In Touch. The talks have reportedly created friction between Jaafar and cousins Prince and Paris Jackson.
“Though Jaafar is loving his moment as the star of a billion-dollar movie, it’s come at a cost,” a source told the outlet. “The hope is that time — and perhaps more success — can heal these rifts.”
The insider added, “Jaafar is re-negotiating because of the first film’s massive success“He’s become a major international actor and deserves to make a fortune when they shoot a second or even a third film.”
“Michael” has earned more than $1 billion worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing biopic in history. The Antoine Fuqua-directed film surpassed “Oppenheimer,” which collected $975.8 million globally, and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which earned $911 million.
International moviegoers contributed $629.8 million to the total, while North American theaters generated $371.8 million. Japan added more than $35 million as the movie crossed the billion-dollar threshold during its 12th weekend.
“Jaafar is re-negotiating because of the first film’s massive success,” the source said. “He’s become a major international actor and deserves to make a fortune when they shoot a second or even a third film.”
Prince, 29, served as an executive producer on the film. He and Paris, 28, also benefit from their father’s estate. The source said the movie’s success has boosted Paris financially. “It’s made her even richer than she already is, at least on paper.”
However, Paris remains involved in a separate $3 million legal dispute with an executor of Michael Jackson’s estate.
“Paris continues to fight tooth-and-nail,” the source said. “She isn’t letting up, and that makes her an obstacle in Jaafar’s journey toward playing her father again.”
Production on the next “Michael” installment could begin as early as the end of 2026. Details about Jaafar’s new salary have not been disclosed.
The 30-year-old actor is renegotiating his compensation as plans move forward for another film, according to In Touch. The talks have reportedly created friction between Jaafar and cousins Prince and Paris Jackson.
“Though Jaafar is loving his moment as the star of a billion-dollar movie, it’s come at a cost,” a source told the outlet. “The hope is that time — and perhaps more success — can heal these rifts.”
The insider added, “Jaafar is re-negotiating because of the first film’s massive success“He’s become a major international actor and deserves to make a fortune when they shoot a second or even a third film.”
“Michael” has earned more than $1 billion worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing biopic in history. The Antoine Fuqua-directed film surpassed “Oppenheimer,” which collected $975.8 million globally, and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which earned $911 million.
International moviegoers contributed $629.8 million to the total, while North American theaters generated $371.8 million. Japan added more than $35 million as the movie crossed the billion-dollar threshold during its 12th weekend.
“Jaafar is re-negotiating because of the first film’s massive success,” the source said. “He’s become a major international actor and deserves to make a fortune when they shoot a second or even a third film.”
Prince, 29, served as an executive producer on the film. He and Paris, 28, also benefit from their father’s estate. The source said the movie’s success has boosted Paris financially. “It’s made her even richer than she already is, at least on paper.”
However, Paris remains involved in a separate $3 million legal dispute with an executor of Michael Jackson’s estate.
“Paris continues to fight tooth-and-nail,” the source said. “She isn’t letting up, and that makes her an obstacle in Jaafar’s journey toward playing her father again.”
Production on the next “Michael” installment could begin as early as the end of 2026. Details about Jaafar’s new salary have not been disclosed.
YouTube Just Made It Harder For Creators To Get Paid And Millions Of Views Still May Not Be Enough
YouTube monetization is about to become a much steeper climb for new creators hoping to turn their channels into a real source of income. Starting February 1, 2027, YouTube will require creators seeking ad and Premium revenue through the YouTube Partner Program to reach 8,000 qualified watch hours within the previous 365 days or 20 million qualified Shorts views within 90 days, according to an official announcement from YouTube. Those requirements effectively double two of the platform’s major existing benchmarks.
Under the current YouTube monetization rules, creators seeking full ad revenue eligibility generally need 1,000 subscribers along with either 4,000 valid public watch hours during the previous 12 months or 10 million valid public Shorts views within 90 days. YouTube’s current eligibility guidance confirms those thresholds, while the company’s August 10 announcement says the subscriber requirement will remain part of the process as the higher viewing requirements take effect. For creators still building an audience, the difference between 4,000 and 8,000 hours can represent months of additional work.
The change does not mean every creator already making money on YouTube suddenly has to hit the doubled entry numbers. YouTube said the higher YouTube monetization entry requirements will not affect creators who are already members of the YouTube Partner Program. The changes specifically raise the barrier for new creators trying to qualify for ads and subscription revenue. That distinction protects established channels from having to qualify all over again, but it also creates a much tougher starting line for the next wave of creators.
Shorts creators have another number to watch closely. According to YouTube’s announcement, creators will need 10 million qualified Shorts views during a 90 day period to remain eligible for ad and subscription revenue sharing on Shorts beginning February 1, 2027. If a channel drops below that level, YouTube says it will remain in the Partner Program and can continue earning from qualifying long form videos. Shorts revenue sharing will automatically resume once the channel crosses the 10 million view threshold again.
That setup makes consistency increasingly valuable. A creator can have a viral stretch, qualify for Shorts earnings and then lose access to that specific revenue stream if the channel cannot continue generating millions of qualified views every few months. As The Verge reported, falling below the Shorts threshold will not automatically remove a creator from the entire YouTube Partner Program. Still, the ability to generate Shorts revenue will depend on maintaining the required level of qualified traffic. For creators whose businesses depend heavily on short form videos, that makes sustained reach almost as important as hitting the milestone in the first place.
YouTube says the tougher YouTube monetization requirements are connected to the massive scale the platform has reached. In its explanation, the company said the changes are designed to “keep pace with the growth of YouTube, which now sees over 200 billion daily Shorts views and over a billion hours of watch time on TV” every day. Those numbers, which YouTube included in its official Partner Program update, show just how crowded the platform has become. More content and more viewing can create more opportunities, but higher qualification standards also mean creators have to capture a much larger piece of that attention before certain revenue doors open.
YouTube is pairing the tougher requirements with changes it says could create additional earning opportunities. The company announced that Premium Lite will expand to every country where YouTube Premium is offered. According to YouTube, revenue pools created by those subscriptions are distributed based on member watch time and views, with creators receiving a 55 percent revenue share for long form videos and 45 percent for Shorts after the applicable subscription revenue is allocated to the creator pool.
YouTube presented that subscription expansion as a potential financial benefit for its partners, writing, “With these additional subscribers, creators can expect higher earnings: when a user signs up for Premium, partners, on average, earn more than when the user was watching ads,” according to the company’s announcement. YouTube also says it plans to introduce additional creator incentives tied to areas such as shopping, brand deals and starting or growing trends, although details about those programs have not yet been fully released.
The bigger issue is what the new YouTube monetization rules mean for creators who have not reached established status. YouTube has spent years positioning itself as a place where independent creators can build audiences and businesses, but the February 2027 changes make the road to advertising and subscription revenue longer for anyone entering through the traditional Partner Program route. The platform may be growing, but creators now have to prove they can command considerably more attention before receiving access to some of the money generated by that growth.
For established creators, the transition may be relatively manageable. For newer channels, the message is much clearer: building an audience on YouTube will still be possible, but reaching the point where that audience begins generating platform revenue is about to demand a lot more views, watch time and consistency.
YouTube monetization is about to become a much steeper climb for new creators hoping to turn their channels into a real source of income. Starting February 1, 2027, YouTube will require creators seeking ad and Premium revenue through the YouTube Partner Program to reach 8,000 qualified watch hours within the previous 365 days or 20 million qualified Shorts views within 90 days, according to an official announcement from YouTube. Those requirements effectively double two of the platform’s major existing benchmarks.
Under the current YouTube monetization rules, creators seeking full ad revenue eligibility generally need 1,000 subscribers along with either 4,000 valid public watch hours during the previous 12 months or 10 million valid public Shorts views within 90 days. YouTube’s current eligibility guidance confirms those thresholds, while the company’s August 10 announcement says the subscriber requirement will remain part of the process as the higher viewing requirements take effect. For creators still building an audience, the difference between 4,000 and 8,000 hours can represent months of additional work.
The change does not mean every creator already making money on YouTube suddenly has to hit the doubled entry numbers. YouTube said the higher YouTube monetization entry requirements will not affect creators who are already members of the YouTube Partner Program. The changes specifically raise the barrier for new creators trying to qualify for ads and subscription revenue. That distinction protects established channels from having to qualify all over again, but it also creates a much tougher starting line for the next wave of creators.
Shorts creators have another number to watch closely. According to YouTube’s announcement, creators will need 10 million qualified Shorts views during a 90 day period to remain eligible for ad and subscription revenue sharing on Shorts beginning February 1, 2027. If a channel drops below that level, YouTube says it will remain in the Partner Program and can continue earning from qualifying long form videos. Shorts revenue sharing will automatically resume once the channel crosses the 10 million view threshold again.
That setup makes consistency increasingly valuable. A creator can have a viral stretch, qualify for Shorts earnings and then lose access to that specific revenue stream if the channel cannot continue generating millions of qualified views every few months. As The Verge reported, falling below the Shorts threshold will not automatically remove a creator from the entire YouTube Partner Program. Still, the ability to generate Shorts revenue will depend on maintaining the required level of qualified traffic. For creators whose businesses depend heavily on short form videos, that makes sustained reach almost as important as hitting the milestone in the first place.
YouTube says the tougher YouTube monetization requirements are connected to the massive scale the platform has reached. In its explanation, the company said the changes are designed to “keep pace with the growth of YouTube, which now sees over 200 billion daily Shorts views and over a billion hours of watch time on TV” every day. Those numbers, which YouTube included in its official Partner Program update, show just how crowded the platform has become. More content and more viewing can create more opportunities, but higher qualification standards also mean creators have to capture a much larger piece of that attention before certain revenue doors open.
YouTube is pairing the tougher requirements with changes it says could create additional earning opportunities. The company announced that Premium Lite will expand to every country where YouTube Premium is offered. According to YouTube, revenue pools created by those subscriptions are distributed based on member watch time and views, with creators receiving a 55 percent revenue share for long form videos and 45 percent for Shorts after the applicable subscription revenue is allocated to the creator pool.
YouTube presented that subscription expansion as a potential financial benefit for its partners, writing, “With these additional subscribers, creators can expect higher earnings: when a user signs up for Premium, partners, on average, earn more than when the user was watching ads,” according to the company’s announcement. YouTube also says it plans to introduce additional creator incentives tied to areas such as shopping, brand deals and starting or growing trends, although details about those programs have not yet been fully released.
The bigger issue is what the new YouTube monetization rules mean for creators who have not reached established status. YouTube has spent years positioning itself as a place where independent creators can build audiences and businesses, but the February 2027 changes make the road to advertising and subscription revenue longer for anyone entering through the traditional Partner Program route. The platform may be growing, but creators now have to prove they can command considerably more attention before receiving access to some of the money generated by that growth.
For established creators, the transition may be relatively manageable. For newer channels, the message is much clearer: building an audience on YouTube will still be possible, but reaching the point where that audience begins generating platform revenue is about to demand a lot more views, watch time and consistency.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
When they put too much air in your tires
This is so funny! I'm glad they aren't throwing hands.
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
