Status | Media News & Analysis

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

In a conversation with Status, Ben Smith dishes on his new Washington-focused column, whether he believes democracy is under threat, and the state of the news media.

Burying the Bruises

Aug 30, 2025

The Democracy Rocket

Aug 29, 2025

YouTube’s Deal With the Devil

Aug 28, 2025

Penske’s Secret Sales

Aug 27, 2025

CNN’s Journal Raid

Aug 25, 2025

Hard-hitting reporting. Uncompromising analysis. Zero spin. Status is the definitive nightly briefing that cuts through the noise to inform readers about what is really happening in the corridors of media power.

Below the Fold

WIRED for the Moment

In a conversation with Status, WIRED’s Katie Drummond argues that Silicon Valley is no longer just innovating new technology—it’s actively shaping American democracy.

Pardon Me?

MAGA Media cheered Ghislaine Maxwell’s praise of Donald Trump—but the hollow transcript only deepened questions about the missing Epstein Files.

CBS' Cash Counter

An astonishing report this week about CBS News' finances sparked buzz and consternation inside the outlet and across the industry—but on Thursday, a significant wrinkle in the story emerged.

CNN’s Streaming Vision

CNN is racing toward an October streaming debut while building out new lifestyle products, Status has learned, a pivotal moment that will test Mark Thompson’s digital vision for the network's future.

Penske’s Power Play

A recent memo from Jay Penske has set the stage for a major shift inside his media empire, Status has learned.

Plucking MSNBC’s Feathers

After nearly 30 years, MSNBC is dropping its name to become MS NOW—a rebrand that sparked tension with NBCU and weeks of behind-the-scenes debate.

‘Nightly News’ in a New Era

Tom Llamas talks to Status about stepping into the “NBC Nightly News” anchor chair, balancing the studio with the field, and keeping the broadcast relevant in 2025.

The Russia Ruse

MAGA Media’s praise for Trump’s disastrous meeting with Putin shows it’s about propping up Trump and spinning his failures—no matter what.

Wary of the Wolff

Melania Trump’s lawyer sent Hunter Biden a cease-and-desist, the third of its kind—but there is something rather conspicuous about the first lady's legal strategy.