Big Media

Posted on by 
by Matthew Cohn

In today’s media marketplace, the industry is dominated by enormous companies whose assets include most of the nation’s leading television and radio stations, all of the largest broadcast and cable networks, and many of the largest studios and production companies. Some of these big media companies have been around since before television, and all have grown through acquisitions. These companies that are considered “Big Media” own and operate many smaller companies, which are all independently managed. It is likely that most of the consumers these companies target don’t even know who owns what or how big these companies truly are.

What is Big Media?

The term “Big Media” is used to describe the media industry, which is dominated by “Big Media” companies. All of the major companies prospered through acquisitions, otherwise known as conglomeration. A media conglomerate owns companies in various mass media such as TV, Film, Radio, Publishing, and Internet. It has become necessary for the largest media companies to own a major asset associated with every aspect of the media business. A fully integrated media conglomerate would likely include at least one motion picture and television production studio, one or more cable or broadcast networks (for distribution), a combination of print and web assets (for promotion), and a range of local media, including television stations, radio stations, newspapers, and other related assets. Of course, large media companies routinely do business with one another, but by doing business within the same conglomerate, it creates a synergy that increases the amount of revenue. A TV series can be produced, distributed, and syndicated all under the same corporate umbrella. Vertical Integration and Synergy are two common terms associated with big media, both pretty much summing up the way a company can “vertically integrate” its product across different platforms to create a “synergy” within a company.

Rules Governing Big Media

Large media companies are controlled similar to other large U.S. corporations. In regard to content and advertising, some of these regulations are based upon law and others are general guidelines self-imposed and self-regulated by each media industry. For a complete list of Broadcast Ownership Rules, click here

Financial Interest and Syndication Rules, otherwise known as Fin-Syn rules, were rules put into effect by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) in 1970. Basically, the FCC thought the big media companies had too much control over the television industry, thus creating unfair competition in the market. For example, a network could only broadcast shows created by its own studio, even if there were better options in the marketplace. At the time, there were only three broadcast networks and the FCC didn’ t want them to monopolize the market. Under the Fin-Syn rules, none of the networks could broadcast any prime-time programming in which they had a financial stake or interest in. Thus, many of the big media companies were forced to sell or let go of their production studios. In 1993, the Fin-Syn rules were abolished, which led to where we are today. For more on the Fin-Syn history, click here

The Big Media Companies

The largest media companies today are known as “The Big 6.” All have major assets in the TV, Film, Internet, and Publishing industries.

  • Disney (ABC)
  • Comcast (NBC)
  • News Corporation (FOX)
  • CBS (CBS)
  • Time Warner (CNN, HBO)
  • Viacom (MTV, Comedy Central)

Disney

The Walt Disney Company was founded in 1923 and is one of the most well-rounded entertainment companies in the world. The four major components are their media networks, studios, consumer products, and amusement parks.

Media Networks

Thanks to the elimination of the Fin-Syn rules, Disney took ownership of ABC Television Network in 1995. Included in ABC’s network is ABC Studios, as well as ESPN and its many sister networks. Other channels include ABC Family, Disney Channel, History Channel, and more.

Radio

Disney owns a majority ownership stake in Citadel Broadcasting Corporation, owner of 277 radio stations in the US.

Publishing

Disney operates book publishing, magazine publishing, music recording, and even Marvel Comics.

Film

Disney is most known for its film business. Most famous is Walt Disney Pictures which is home to its animation studio. Also, Touchstone Pictures, Miramax Films, Pixar Animation Studios, and more.

Other

Disney owns theme parks worldwide and even a cruise line. Disney success early on can be credited to its Consumer Products business, especially Mickey Mouse. Disney still is one of the most powerful consumer product companies in the world.

For a complete list of Disney’s holdings, click here
For more on Disney’s Company Overview, click here
For more on Disney’s History, click here

Comcast


Comcast’s power base comes from its near monopoly on cable service to nearly a third of all U.S. households. Although always a major player, Comcast was not really considered a “Big” until its take over of a majority share of NBC-Universal from General Electric. Comcast owns 51% of NBCU, GE owns 49%. General Electric has long been considered a “Big,” but their main business operations are not in the media industry, especially since Comcast’s acquisition of majority share. Comcast is one of the largest cable and internet service providers, and combining them with one of the biggest producers of TV and movies makes them one of the most powerful corporations in the industry.

For more on the Comcast/NBCU Transaction, click here

Television

Comcast owns NBC Network, including all of its local stations, Telemundo, CNBC, as well as multiple sports networks under the Comcast Sports Net name. Comcast is also one of the largest cable providers in the US.

Internet

Comcast is one of the nation’s largest Internet Service Providers.

Film

Comcast owns Universal Pictures, Focus Pictures, Rogue Pictures, as well as Universal Studios Home Entertainment, a distribution unit.

Sports

Comcast is very unique compared with the other members of the Big 6. Comcast, whose headquarters are in Philadelphia, PA, owns both the Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), and the Philadelphia Flyers (NHL). Comcast also owns the Wachovia Center, where the teams play.

For a complete list of Comcast’s holdings, click here

For more on Comcast’s company overview, click here

News Corporation

Under Rupert Murdoch’s leadership, News Corporation has become one of the most powerful companies in the TV and Film industries.

Television

News Corp. owns FOX as well as 16 owned and operated Fox Regional Sports Networks. Also, Fox News and National Geographic Channel. Production companies include 20th Century Fox Television and Fox Television Studios.

Film

News Corp. owns 20th Century Fox, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, and Searchlight Pictures.

Publishing

News Corp. owns HarperCollins Publishers, as well as more than 150 newspapers and numerous magazines.

Online

Online properties include FoxSports.com, Foxnews.com, Simplyhired.com, and more

Sports

News Corp also owns the National Rugby League.

For a complete list of News Corporations holdings, click here

For more on News Corporations company overview, click here

Time Warner

Time Warner Inc. is one of the most diversified Big Media companies, with holdings that include Time Inc., HBO, Turner Broadcasting System (TBS), and Warner Bros. Entertainment. Time Warner owns some of the strongest cable networks including CNN, TNT, TBS, and more. Time Warner also owns 50% of the CW Network (CBS owns the other half).

Television

Time Warner has built its company off being an early innovator in cable TV. Time Warner owns some of the most valuable cable channels today, including HBO, Cinemax, TBS, TNT, Cartoon Network, as well as all of CNN’s international programming. Also, Time Warner owns Warner Bros. Television group, one of the best production companies in the TV industry today.

Film

Time Warner owns some of the best production companies, including Warner Bros. Pictures, New Line Cinema, Castle Rock, and more.

Internet

Along with the digital properties of CNN.com, CartoonNetwork.com, and other cable channels’ websites, Time Warner owns America Online and all of AOL’s properties.

Publishing

Time Warner is arguably the strongest of the Big 6 when it comes to publishing. Its properties include Time Inc, Time Warner Book Group, DC Comics, People magazine, Sports Illustrated, Fortune, and more.

For more on Time Warner Inc., click here

For a complete list of Time Warner Inc., holdings, click here

Viacom


Viacom’s history is unique in that it was created out of the original Fin-Syn rules in 1971, when CBS was forced to leave the program syndication business and let go of ownership of Viacom. Viacom became so big that in 2000 they merged with CBS, only to split again in 2005, leaving Viacom and CBS Corp. as two separate companies. Viacom’s power is built around is TV and film assets.

Television

Viacom television properties include some of the strongest channels including MTV, Comedy Central, BET, Nickelodeon, VH1, and Spike.

Film

Viacom owns Paramount Pictures, which includes Dreamworks and MTV Films.

For more on Viacom, click here

For more on Viacom’s history, click here

For a complete list of Viacom’s holdings, click here

CBS

CBS is one of the oldest networks, as its roots trace back to 1928 when it was a collection of 16 radio stations, and then one of the first television broadcast networks. CBS is the number one broadcast network in the country, and has strong international distribution.

Television

CBS is the number one rated network in America, with top shows such as Survivor, CSI, and Two and a Half Men, all of which sell internationally. CBS also owns Showtime, one of the top pay cable networks. CBS also owns 50% of the CW Network (Time Warner owns the other half).

Radio

CBS still is active in its original business, radio, and owns 130 stations in 29 different markets.

Publishing

CBS owns Simon & Schuster, one of the largest book publishing companies.

Online

CBS’ online properties are very strong, especially CBSSports.com, CBSnews.com, and Sho.com.

For more on CBS, click here

For a complete list of CBS properties, click here

*It is worth noting that National Amusements has a controlling interest in both CBS and Viacom, but both operate individually.

The Next Level Down

After the Big 6, there are other large media companies, but none are nearly as diversified as the Big 6 companies.

Some worth noting, and their core business:

Cable

Cox Enterprises

Cablevision

Publishing

The New York Times Company

The Washington Post Company

Hearst Corporation

Telecommunications

Verizon

AT&T

Radio

Clear Channel Communications

For a complete list of all major media companies, click here
For a smaller list of ownership in the media industry, click here

109 thoughts on “Big Media”

  1. Hi there! I know this is somewhat off-topic however I had to ask.
    Does managing a well-established blog such as yours take a lot of
    work? I am brand new to running a blog however I do write in my journal everyday.
    I’d like to start a blog so I will be able to share my experience and thoughts online.
    Please let me know if you have any kind of suggestions or tips for
    new aspiring blog owners. Appreciate it!

    Reply ↓

  3. I blog frequently and I really thank you for your content. Your article has truly peaked
    my interest. I’m going to book mark your blog and keep
    checking for new information about once per week. I subscribed to your RSS
    feed too.

    Reply ↓

  4. Simply wish to say your article is as astounding.

    The clarity in your put up is just great and that i
    could assume you’re a professional on this subject.

    Well with your permission let me to seize
    your RSS feed to keep up to date with drawing close post.
    Thanks 1,000,000 and please keep up the enjoyable
    work.

    Reply ↓

  6. I’m not sure exactly why but this weblog is loading extremely slow for
    me. Is anyone else having this issue or is it a issue on my end?
    I’ll check back later on and see if the problem still exists.

    Reply ↓

  7. After looking into a handful of the blog posts on your site, I
    seriously appreciate your technique of writing a blog.
    I book marked it to my bookmark webpage list and will be
    checking back in the near future. Please check out my web
    site as well and tell me what you think.

    Reply ↓

  8. Very great post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted
    to say that I have really enjoyed surfing around your
    blog posts. In any case I will be subscribing for your feed
    and I am hoping you write once more soon!

    Reply ↓

  9. I have been exploring for a bit for any high-quality
    articles or blog posts in this sort of area .
    Exploring in Yahoo I at last stumbled upon this
    web site. Reading this info So i’m happy to express that I
    have an incredibly just right uncanny feeling
    I came upon just what I needed. I such a lot without a doubt will
    make sure to don?t overlook this web site
    and give it a look on a continuing basis.

    Reply ↓

  10. Hey I know this is off topic but I was wondering if you knew of
    any widgets I could add to my blog that automatically
    tweet my newest twitter updates. I’ve been looking
    for a plug-in like this for quite some time and was hoping maybe you would have some experience with something like this.
    Please let me know if you run into anything. I truly enjoy reading your blog
    and I look forward to your new updates.

    Reply ↓

  11. I think this is one of the most vital information for me.

    And i’m glad reading your article. But should remark on some general things, The site style is
    great, the articles is really excellent :
    D. Good job, cheers

    Reply ↓

  13. I blog quite often and I genuinely thank you for your
    information. The article has really peaked my interest.
    I am going to book mark your website and keep checking for new details about
    once per week. I subscribed to your RSS feed as well.

    Reply ↓

  16. Oh my goodness! Awesome article dude! Thank you so much,
    However I am experiencing difficulties with your RSS.

    I don’t know the reason why I am unable to join it. Is there anybody getting similar
    RSS problems? Anyone that knows the answer will you kindly respond?
    Thanx!!

    Reply ↓

  18. We’re a group of volunteers and opening a new scheme in our community.
    Your website offered us with valuable info to work on. You’ve done an impressive job and our whole community will be thankful
    to you.

    Reply ↓

  19. Remarkable page! I seriously had our checking. I’m hoping to read simple things a lot more on your side. In my opinion that you have exceptional awareness and even prospect. Now i am quite pleased within this guidance.

    Reply ↓

  20. Top post Genachowski’s less than artful weaving of net neutrality and consumer privacy | Law and Politics of Broadband you’ve surely influenced all of us FYI have you read Middle East amazing headlines! Enjoy your day ! Flash Website Design

    Reply ↓

  24. Hi there, just became alert to your blog through Google, and found that it’s truly informative. I抦 gonna watch out for brussels. I抣l appreciate if you continue this in future. Numerous people will be benefited from your writing. Cheers!

    Reply ↓

  38. I know this if off topic but I’m looking into starting my own weblog and was wondering what all is needed to get set up? I’m assuming having a blog like yours would cost a pretty penny? I’m not very internet savvy so I’m not 100 sure. Any recommendations or advice would be greatly appreciated. Appreciate it

    Reply ↓

  39. Thanks for your content. One other thing is that if you are selling your property on your own, one of the troubles you need to be aware of upfront is just how to deal with home inspection records. As a FSBO seller, the key to successfully transferring your property and saving money on real estate agent profits is expertise. The more you are aware of, the better your sales effort will be. One area where by this is particularly significant is inspection reports.

    Reply ↓

  41. Hi there, You have done an incredible job. I will certainly digg it and personally recommend to my friends. I’m sure they will be benefited from this website.

    Reply ↓

  44. I was suggested this web site by means of my cousin. I’m no longer positive whether this put up is written via him as nobody else know such specific about my difficulty. You’re incredible! Thanks!

    Reply ↓

  45. you are really a good webmaster. The website loading speed is amazing. It seems that you’re doing any unique trick. Furthermore, The contents are masterwork. you have done a fantastic job on this topic!

    Reply ↓

  47. Thanks for the useful information on credit repair on all of this site. A few things i would advice people is always to give up this mentality that they’ll buy currently and shell out later. As being a society we all tend to do that for many issues. This includes vacation trips, furniture, and also items we would like. However, you’ll want to separate your own wants from all the needs. When you are working to improve your credit rating score make some trade-offs. For example it is possible to shop online to economize or you can click on second hand suppliers instead of pricey department stores regarding clothing.

    Reply ↓

  51. What’s up?

    I found this article very interesting…please read!

    Do you remember the blockbuster hit film The Matrix that was released in 1999? You may not know this, but it has deep spiritual implications concerning the times we are living in and Bible prophecy.

    It tells a story of how these “agents” are trying to turn us into machines. We are closer then ever before for this to become a reality when they cause us to receive an implantable microchip in our body during a time when physical money will be no more.

    You may have seen on NBC news concerning the implantable RFID microchip that some people are getting put in their hand to make purchases, but did you know this microchip matches perfectly with prophecy in the Bible?

    “He (the false prophet who deceives many by his miracles) causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name…

    You also may have heard of the legendary number “666” that people have been speculating for possibly thousands of years on what it actually means. This article shares something I haven’t seen before, and I don’t think there could be any better explanation for what it means to calculate 666. This is no hoax. Very fascinating stuff!

    …Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666″ (Revelation 13:16-18 NKJV).

    To see all the details showing why the Bible foretold of all these things, check out this article!

    Article: http://1.voicetruth.org

    GOD is sending out His end time warning:

    “Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name” (Revelation 14:9-11).

    In the Islamic religion they have man called the Mahdi who is known as their messiah of whom they are waiting to take the stage. There are many testimonies from people online who believe this man will be Barack Obama who is to be the biblical Antichrist based off dreams they have received. I myself have had strange dreams about him like no other person. So much so that I decided to share this information.

    He came on stage claiming to be a Christian with no affiliation to the Muslim faith…

    “In our lives, Michelle and I have been strengthened by our Christian faith. But there have been times where my faith has been questioned — by people who don’t know me — or they’ve said that I adhere to a different religion, as if that were somehow a bad thing,” – Barack Obama

    …but was later revealed by his own family members that he indeed is a devout Muslim.

    So what’s in the name? The meaning of someones name can say a lot about a person. God throughout history has given names to people that have a specific meaning tied to their lives. How about the name Barack Obama? Let us take a look at what may be hiding beneath the surface…

    “And He (Jesus) said to them (His disciples), ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven'” (Luke 10:18).

    In the Hebrew language we can uncover the meaning behind the name Barack Obama.

    Barack, also transliterated as Baraq, in Hebrew is: lightning

    baraq – Biblical definition:

    From Strongs H1299; lightning; by analogy a gleam; concretely a flashing sword: – bright, glitter (-ing, sword), lightning. (Strongs Hebrew word H1300 baraq baw-rawk’)

    Barak ‘O’bamah, The use of bamah is used to refer to the “heights” of Heaven.

    bamah – Biblical definition:

    From an unused root (meaning to be high); an elevation: – height, high place, wave. (Strongs Hebrew word H1116 bamah baw-maw’)

    The day following the election of Barack Obama (11/04/08), the winning pick 3 lotto numbers in Illinois (Obama’s home state) for 11/5/08 were 666.

    Obama was a U.S. senator for Illinois, and his zip code was 60606.

    Seek Jesus while He may be found…repent, confess and forsake your sins and trust in the savior! Jesus says we must be born again by His Holy Spirit to enter the kingdom of God…God bless!

    Reply ↓

  52. You really make it appear so easy along with your presentation however I to find this matter to be really something which I feel I’d never understand. It sort of feels too complicated and extremely extensive for me. I am taking a look ahead in your next put up, I抣l attempt to get the dangle of it!

    Reply ↓

  55. Thanks for another wonderful post. Where else could anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I’m on the look for such info.

    Reply ↓

  57. Have you ever thought about writing an e-book or guest authoring on other blogs? I have a blog based on the same subjects you discuss and would love to have you share some stories/information. I know my audience would enjoy your work. If you’re even remotely interested, feel free to send me an email.

    Reply ↓

  73. Fantastic goods from you, man. I’ve have in mind your stuff previous to and you are simply extremely great. I really like what you’ve bought here, really like what you are stating and the way in which by which you are saying it. You’re making it enjoyable and you still care for to keep it smart. I can’t wait to read much more from you. This is really a great web site.

    Reply ↓

  78. I manage a vape shop submission site and we have had a posting from a vape shop in the United States that also sells CBD product lines. A Calendar month later, PayPal has contacted use to claim that our account has been limited and have asked us to take out PayPal as a payment method from our vape store directory site. We do not offer for sale CBD items like CBD oil. We only offer marketing solutions to CBD firms. I have checked out Holland & Barrett– the UK’s Top Health and wellness Retail store and if you take a good look, you will see that they offer for sale a relatively wide-ranging variety of CBD items, specifically CBD oil and they also happen to accept PayPal as a settlement solution. It seems that PayPal is employing contradictory standards to many different firms. As a result of this constraint, I can no longer take PayPal on my CBD-related site. This has restricted my payment options and presently, I am seriously reliant on Cryptocurrency payments and direct bank transfers. I have consulted a lawyer from a Magic Circle law firm in London and they stated that what PayPal is doing is absolutely not legal and inequitable as it should be applying a systematic standard to all companies. I am still to consult one more lawyer from a US law practice in The city of london to see what PayPal’s legal position is in the USA. In the meantime, I would be extremely appreciative if anybody here at targetdomain could provide me with alternative payment processors/merchants that deal with CBD firms.

    Reply ↓

  80. Thanks for your exciting article. Other thing is that mesothelioma cancer is generally the result of the inhalation of material from mesothelioma, which is a carcinogenic material. It can be commonly seen among laborers in the engineering industry who definitely have long contact with asbestos. It is also caused by living in asbestos protected buildings for a long period of time, Genes plays a huge role, and some persons are more vulnerable on the risk than others.

    Reply ↓

  81. I used to be suggested this web site via my cousin. I’m not certain whether or not this publish is written through him as nobody else know such particular approximately my trouble. You are amazing! Thank you!

    Reply ↓

  82. I抣l right away grab your rss feed as I can’t find your email subscription link or e-newsletter service. Do you’ve any? Please let me know in order that I could subscribe. Thanks.

    Reply ↓

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *