The creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, criticized the planned $28 billion merger between Paramount and Skydance, blaming it for delays in the show's 27th season premiere and expressing concerns over streaming rights, amid ongoing studio disputes and corporate negotiations.
The premiere of "Dancing With the Stars" is expected to be delayed due to talent dropping out amid the ongoing WGA strike. Actor Matt Walsh, a member of WGA, SAG-AFTRA, and DGA, has announced that he is taking a pause from the show until an agreement is reached with the WGA. While the show employs one WGA writer, it is covered by SAG-AFTRA's "Network Code" agreement, allowing the rest of the cast to continue working. The production is facing complications as more celebrities consider dropping out, potentially affecting the show's continuity. The crew, consisting of around 500 people, is also a concern. The WGA has been vocal about the show not continuing until the strike is resolved. Other reality competition shows without WGA writers, like "The Masked Singer," have faced no criticism. The premiere date is likely to be delayed.