Entertainment
Netflix Subscriber Surge Driven by Bridgerton and Baby Reindeer
Netflix has reported a significant boost in subscribers, adding over eight million new members in the three months leading up to June. This impressive growth has been fueled by the latest season of “Bridgerton” and the new drama “Baby Reindeer.” The increase nearly doubled investor predictions, showcasing the effectiveness of Netflix’s recent measures to curb password sharing.
Despite this surge, Netflix cautioned that the positive impact of the password-sharing crackdown might diminish in the coming months, potentially leading to slower subscriber growth. To maintain its momentum, the streaming giant is exploring new avenues such as sports, live events, and gaming.
Upcoming plans include a multi-player video game tied to the new season of the popular dystopian series “Squid Game,” set to release later this year, as well as games linked to shows like “Emily in Paris.” Netflix expressed confidence in its strategy, stating, “If we execute well – better stories, easier discovery and more fandom – while also establishing ourselves in newer areas like live, games and advertising, we believe that we have a lot more room to grow.”
With this recent subscriber gain, Netflix’s global total has surpassed 277 million. Considering more than two people in most households share accounts, the platform estimates its audience reaches over 600 million. In the UK, Netflix’s cheapest ad-supported package costs £4.99, while in the US, it is priced at $6.99.
Netflix’s advertising business has shown “steady progress,” with subscriptions to the ad-supported plan rising by 34% in the quarter. However, the company noted that the ads business would not significantly impact revenue until 2026. Jamie Lumley, an analyst at Third Bridge, pointed out that while the ad-supported tier is crucial for subscriber growth, it has yet to demonstrate its revenue potential. He emphasized that Amazon has made a more substantial impact in the ad market, and Netflix needs to scale up to become a major player in this segment.
Financially, Netflix’s total revenue for the quarter was $9.56 billion, a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Profits also saw a substantial rise, reaching $2.15 billion, up from $1.5 billion the previous year. The company projects a year-on-year growth of 14% for the July-September period.
As Netflix continues to innovate and expand into new areas, its position as the industry leader remains strong, with a promising outlook for future growth and audience engagement.
Entertainment
The Sidemen Transition from YouTube to Netflix for Bigger Horizons
The Sidemen, a powerhouse group of British YouTube creators, have announced a major shift in their content strategy, moving their reality series Inside to Netflix after reaching what they describe as “the limit” of YouTube’s potential.
The group, which includes renowned personalities like KSI, revealed that the second season of Inside will premiere on Netflix next year. Additionally, Netflix will produce a U.S. version of the series, marking a significant expansion for the Sidemen brand.
Known for their humor, creativity, and camaraderie, the Sidemen have amassed over 146 million subscribers across their YouTube channels since launching in the early 2010s. Originally focused on gaming content, they have since diversified into comedy sketches, travel challenges, podcasts, and even a dating show.
The reality series Inside, which debuted on YouTube in June, became an instant hit, with the opening episode garnering 14 million views. The show follows 10 influencers confined to a house for a week, competing for a prize of up to £1 million.
Its success caught Netflix’s attention, leading to the commission of both a second UK season and a U.S. adaptation. Both versions will air exclusively on Netflix, marking a departure from the group’s traditional platform.
The Sidemen, now backed by a production team of over 100 members, view the move as an opportunity to expand their creative vision. “We’ve always tried to push boundaries, and this feels like the next big step,” said member Vik.
Entertainment
One Direction Members and Loved Ones Bid Farewell to Liam Payne
Family, friends, and One Direction stars gathered in Buckinghamshire to honor Liam Payne at an emotional funeral on Wednesday, over a month after the singer’s untimely passing at 31.
The private service took place at St. Mary’s Church in Amersham, north-west of London. Payne’s former bandmates Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik joined mourners, including his girlfriend Kate Cassidy, ex-partner Cheryl, and their son Bear.
A white horse-drawn hearse adorned with floral tributes spelling “Son” and “Daddy” brought Payne’s coffin to the church. Other tributes included a 10-pin bowling-themed arrangement, reflecting one of his favorite pastimes.
Following the service, pallbearers carried the coffin from the church as Payne’s parents, Cheryl, and other close family members followed. Among the attendees were Cheryl’s Girls Aloud bandmates Kimberley Walsh and Nicola Roberts, as well as Simon Cowell, who signed One Direction to his label.
The heartfelt ceremony also drew appearances from notable personalities, including James Corden, Marvin and Rochelle Humes, Scott Mills, and Adrian Chiles.
Despite Payne’s global fame, fans largely respected the privacy of the occasion, heeding reminders on social media that “memorials are for fans, funerals are for family.” Only a small number of locals and well-wishers gathered outside the church.
Payne, who resided in nearby Chalfont St. Giles, was remembered for his warmth and talent. His passing has deeply affected his family, bandmates, and fans worldwide, marking the loss of a beloved figure in music.
Entertainment
Brooklyn Priest Replaced Following Sabrina Carpenter’s Music Video and Mismanagement Allegations
A New York priest, Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, has been removed from his post after allowing singer Sabrina Carpenter to film scenes for her Feather music video in a church, sparking controversy. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn announced his dismissal, citing the music video and further findings of administrative misconduct.
The video, released in October 2023, included provocative scenes filmed at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, showing Carpenter dancing on the altar in a short dress and a crucifix adorned with profanity. The Diocese expressed its dismay at the video and initiated an investigation, which uncovered additional irregularities.
In a statement, Bishop Robert Brennan explained that investigations by external firms revealed violations of church policies. These included unapproved financial transfers and personal use of church funds.
Among the allegations, it was found that from 2019 to 2021, nearly $2 million in church funds were transferred to accounts linked to a former staff member of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who faces multiple criminal charges.
The Diocese revoked Monsignor Gigantiello’s administrative powers in November 2023 after the video’s release and replaced him with a new overseer. Gigantiello, who previously served as the vicar of development for the Diocese, acknowledged the decision to allow filming in the church as a “lapse in judgment” but has not commented on the broader allegations.
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