American cable channel, flagship of the MTV Entertainment Group (Paramount).
The European Commission has approved a Paramount-Warner merger with conditions, saying competition persists in film production and streaming but warns over theatrical distribution. Paramount must divest its UIP stake and end its partnership with Universal within deadlines; the approval emphasizes consumer choice and scale to compete with tech platforms. U.S. regulators pause the case as states challenge the merger; a preliminary injunction hearing is slated for Aug. 3.
Billie Eilish and James Cameron have co-directed a new 3D concert film, Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live in 3D), which captures the star’s Manchester show and backstage moments. The project marks Cameron’s first major foray into a concert-film collaboration with a pop artist, expanding the format while staying faithful to Eilish’s stage persona.
Chase has died at age 35 from complications of bacterial meningitis and a blood infection. She has been living homeless in Los Angeles with her boyfriend near the hospital where she died. The New York Times reports she voiced Lilo in the 2002 film and Samara in The Ring, among other roles. Her father confirmed the cause and circumstances, and an online fundraiser has raised about $4,000 for her memory.
AP and Guardian reviews converge on Jackass: Best and Last as a farewell that leans on familiar stunts and nostalgia, with a few fresh twists but less novelty than earlier entries.
WeWard has launched Walking Mode, a feature that locks social apps until users meet a walking goal. The feature aims to promote activity and reduce screen time. Venus Williams funds the project, with the app reporting 30 million users in 29 countries and a 25% increase in walking time on average.
A wave of coverage highlights privacy risks and safety concerns around Meta’s AI-powered glasses, with retailers, designers and commentators weighing in on potential misuse, regulation and safeguards while highlighting benefits for accessibility.
The independent reports that District Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín has approved a $1.5 billion class-action settlement with Anthropic over AI training on copyrighted books. About 91% of the 482,000+ works covered have been claimed; payouts are about $3,000 per work. While this marks a historic recovery, authors retain the right to pursue future training claims. Judge Alsup previously approved the deal; he has since retired.
A California judge has ordered a 14-day pause on Paramount’s $110 billion deal to merge with Warner Bros. Discovery, with a preliminary injunction possible and hearings ongoing as states filed antitrust lawsuits. Regulators worldwide are reviewing concessions; a delayed close could carry substantial costs.