AI-Generated ads and Shifting Media Landscapes Dominate Headlines on August 20, 2025
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The entertainment and media industries are undergoing rapid change, marked by the rise of artificial intelligence, evolving streaming strategies, and persistent economic pressures. Today,August 20,2025,brings a flurry of developments,from actors licensing their likenesses for AI advertising to price adjustments at major retailers and streaming services.
TikTok’s AI Ad Gamble and the Future of Actor Compensation
A concerning trend is emerging as TikTok reportedly paid actor Scott Jacqmein a mere $750 for the rights to use his digital likeness in AI-generated advertisements. The agreement, facilitated through an agency, allows advertisers to create ads featuring Jacqmein without any further compensation or approval from the actor. What’s more, these AI-generated ads have reportedly appeared on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube without the AI labeling present on TikTok, raising questions about transparency and consent.
“This is a watershed moment,” noted one industry analyst. “It highlights the urgent need for clear regulations and fair compensation models as AI continues to disrupt the entertainment industry.” the situation underscores the potential for exploitation as companies leverage performers’ images for profit without adequate remuneration. The actor’s likeness is being used “all across the world by a company making billions,” according to reports.
Meta Reorganizes AI Division Amidst Downsizing
In a related development, Meta‘s AI division is undergoing a significant restructuring, downsizing and splitting into four distinct groups, one of which is curiously named “superintelligence.” This internal shift comes as Meta reported $35 billion in net profit during the first six months of 2025, raising questions about the company’s long-term AI strategy.
Streaming Wars Heat Up: ESPN/NFL+ Combo and Netflix’s K-Pop Success
The streaming landscape continues to evolve. A combined ESPN and NFL+ subscription, including RedZone, will launch on September 3, 2025, priced at $40 per month or $200 for the full season – a $5 monthly savings. Meanwhile, Netflix is experiencing a surge in viewership with its animated films and the unexpected success of “KPop Demon hunters,” which has already secured over 1,000 sell-out screenings in movie theaters this weekend. The most-watched WWE Premium Live Event in the first half of 2025 on Netflix wasn’t wrestlemania, but the Royal Rumble in early February, attracting 3 million international viewers.
Economic Pressures and Price Adjustments
Economic realities are impacting consumer behavior and corporate strategies.Home Depot anticipates “modest price movement” in some product categories this year,while still maintaining its financial guidance for 2025. This comes as consumers continue to delay larger purchases and home betterment projects. The recent widening of tariffs on goods like air conditioners, office furniture, and generators by the Trump administration is expected to further influence retail sales.
In response to consumer pushback, McDonald’s is reversing course and lowering prices on combo meals after previously implementing “modest price movement.”
Industry Losses and Updates
The industry mourns the loss of longtime comedy manager David Steinberg, who passed away this week at the age of 81. Steinberg represented iconic comedians like Billy Crystal and Robin Williams.
In other news, Legendary is no longer involved in the upcoming Mortal Kombat II film at Warner bros. this October, with their partnership now focused on projects slated for 2026 and 2027, including a sequel to Detective Pikachu. FX‘s Alien series is off to a strong start, and the WNBA is experiencing record viewership on ABC and through its streaming platforms.
