The post ‘The White Lotus’ Turns Cannes’ Hôtel Martinez Into Festival’s Newest Attraction appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

The wheel has stopped turning — at least on screen.

Prime Video has officially canceled The Wheel of Time after three seasons, according to a report from Deadline. The decision comes as a blow to fans of the epic fantasy series, which had gained momentum and critical praise, especially for its most recent season.

A Sudden End to a Promising Journey

Based on the beloved novels by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson, The Wheel of Time made an ambitious leap to television under the guidance of showrunner Rafe Judkins. The adaptation starred Rosamund Pike as the powerful Aes Sedai Moiraine Damodred and Josha Stradowski as Rand al’Thor, the Dragon Reborn. Over three seasons, the series built a dedicated fanbase and evolved into one of Prime Video’s standout genre titles.

Critics lauded the third season for its rich storytelling and production quality. In fact, reviewer David Opie praised the show for becoming “more sophisticated than The Witcher, more thrilling than The Rings of Power, and more distinctive than House of the Dragon.”

So Why Cancel It?

The reason for the cancellation isn’t creative — it’s financial.

Insiders revealed that while Amazon executives and Sony TV (the studio behind the series) were pleased with the show’s creative direction, rising costs ultimately led to its demise. With The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power carrying a staggering billion-dollar price tag and new hits like Fallout performing better in viewership rankings, The Wheel of Time simply didn’t make the financial cut.

Talks between Amazon and Sony to explore a path forward reportedly continued long after Season 3 wrapped, but no viable solution emerged.

A Legacy That Endures

While fans are understandably disappointed, the show’s legacy remains intact. From its sweeping landscapes to its faithful homage to Jordan’s world-building, The Wheel of Time succeeded in bringing a once “unfilmable” story to life. As Jordan himself wrote in The Path of Daggers, “There are neither beginnings nor endings to the Wheel of Time. But it was a beginning.”

And what a beginning it was.

Though the journey has ended on screen, The Wheel of Time lives on in the hearts of its fans — a memorable chapter in the ever-turning wheel of fantasy storytelling.

Source: Empire – The Wheel Of Time Cancelled After 3 Seasons By Prime Video

The post The Wheel of Time Canceled: Prime Video Ends Fantasy Series After 3 Seasons appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

NBC’s veteran journalist Lester Holt is stepping down as the anchor of NBC Nightly News after leading the flagship broadcast for 10 years. However, Holt isn’t leaving NBC entirely—he will transition to a full-time role on “Dateline NBC.“

When Will Holt Step Down?

The transition is expected to take place early this summer, though an exact date has not yet been announced. NBC has also not named a successor for “Nightly News.”

Holt’s Statement on His Departure

In a memo to staff on Monday, Holt reflected on his time at “Nightly News” and expressed gratitude for his colleagues.

“It has truly been the honor of a lifetime to work with each of you every day, keeping journalism as our true north and our viewers at the center of everything we do.”

He also noted his excitement about taking on a greater role at “Dateline“, which he has anchored since 2011.

NBC’s Response

NBC executives praised Holt’s contributions to the network. Janelle Rodriguez, NBC News’ Executive Vice President of Programming, called him “the beating heart of this news organization” and reassured staff that Holt will remain with NBC for years to come.

Lester Holt’s Legacy at NBC

• Joined NBC in 2000
• Anchored “NBC Nightly News” since June 2015, replacing Brian Williams
• Hosted weekend editions of “Nightly News” for 8 years before becoming the main anchor
• Principal anchor of “Dateline” since 2011

Holt has played a crucial role in covering major global events and maintaining NBC’s reputation as a trusted news source.

The Future of “Nightly News”

• Currently averages around 7 million viewers per week
• First launched in 1948, later renamed “NBC Nightly News” in 1970

NBC has yet to confirm who will take over the anchor desk.

Holt’s New Role at “Dateline NBC”

“Dateline,” now in its 33rd season, has grown into a true crime powerhouse, with top-ranked podcasts and television spinoffs like “The Thing About Pam.” It also covers breaking news, investigative journalism, and human interest stories.

Broader Changes in Broadcast News

Holt’s departure from “Nightly News” is part of a larger shift in the TV news landscape:

• Norah O’Donnell recently signed off from CBS Evening News after leading since 2019.
• Hoda Kotb ended her run as lead anchor of NBC’s “Today” on January 10.
• MSNBC is undergoing a major transition, with Joy Reid’s show, “The ReidOut,” ending as the network prepares for a spinoff from NBC News.

Holt’s next chapter marks the end of an era for “Nightly News” and the beginning of a new focus on long-form investigative storytelling.

Source

The post Lester Holt to Step Down as NBC Nightly News Anchor After 10 Years appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

MSNBC President Rashida Jones has announced she is stepping down after leading the network for four years, marking a significant moment just before the inauguration of Donald Trump’s second administration. Jones’ departure comes amid corporate ownership changes and evolving dynamics at the news network.

Jones’ Departure and New Leadership at MSNBC

In a memo sent to staff on Tuesday, Rashida Jones stated that she was leaving her position to “pursue new opportunities.” Rebecca Kutler, a former CNN executive who joined MSNBC in 2022, will serve as interim president. Jones, who made history as the first Black executive to lead a cable news network, took the helm at MSNBC in 2021.

During Jones’ tenure, MSNBC displaced CNN as the second-rated cable news network, trailing only behind Fox News Channel. However, the network’s ratings have seen a significant decline since Donald Trump’s election, a trend that has continued throughout the years.

Achievements and Changes Under Jones’ Leadership

Despite the challenges of fluctuating ratings, Jones made notable changes to MSNBC’s programming lineup. The network saw Jen Psaki, former Biden administration press secretary, as one of its most high-profile additions under her leadership. Jones also helped shape the network’s weekend programming and extended the airtime for two popular shows: Morning Joe and Deadline: White House with Nicolle Wallace.

However, her leadership was not without controversy. The hiring of Ronna McDaniel, former Republican National Committee head, as a paid MSNBC contributor led to an internal uproar among network personalities. This decision was eventually reversed after public backlash.

Corporate Changes and the Future of MSNBC

In November, Comcast announced that it would separate MSNBC and CNBC from NBC News, forming a standalone company led by Mark Lazarus. This shift meant that Jones was now answering to a new corporate structure. Lazarus expressed surprise and some sadness over Jones’ decision but also wished her well during what he described as a “very personal decision.”

During a morning meeting, Jones remarked, “I’m excited about what we’ve done, and I’m excited about what comes next,” though she did not provide specific details regarding her future plans. Corporate transitions, like those happening at MSNBC, often lead to leadership changes in the media industry.

The Future of MSNBC’s Brand and Programming

Despite some rumors about a potential name change for MSNBC, Mark Lazarus confirmed that the network would retain its name. The name MSNBC has been synonymous with a partnership with Microsoft since its inception in 1996, and despite the separation from NBC News, there are no immediate plans to alter the brand identity.

As for programming, Rachel Maddow, the network’s most popular host, is returning to her prime-time show five nights a week for the first few months of the new administration. Since 2022, Maddow had limited her appearances to one night per week. Her return is seen as a move to bolster the network’s viewership during a critical political moment.

MSNBC’s Viewership Challenges

Under Jones’ leadership, MSNBC saw a significant decline in viewership, with ratings dropping by 57% since Trump’s election. Networks associated with a losing presidential candidate often experience a post-election audience dip, and MSNBC is no exception. However, early signs show a potential rebound in viewership, particularly as the political landscape shifts with the upcoming second Trump administration.

As cable television usage continues to decline, it remains uncertain whether MSNBC can regain the momentum it saw in 2017 when it experienced a surge in viewership.

What’s Next for MSNBC?

With Jones stepping down and new leadership taking over, MSNBC faces a period of transition. The network’s ability to adapt to a changing political environment and media landscape will be critical as it aims to regain viewership and maintain its position as a key player in cable news.

Source

The post Rashida Jones Steps Down as MSNBC President Ahead of Trump’s Second Term appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.