Paramount in exclusive merger talks with Skydance; Colin Farrell stars as film noir detective in ‘Sugar’ and other news

Paramount Global is set to enter into exclusive merger talks with Skydance Media, a move that could potentially end Shari Redstone’s control of the media empire built by her late father, Sumner Redstone. The decision comes after members of Paramount’s board favored Skydance over a $26 billion offer from Apollo Global Management, according to a source familiar with the matter.

In other entertainment news, Colin Farrell is making a comeback in the world of film noir with his role in the new Apple+ series “Sugar.” The Golden Globe Award winner plays a private detective in contemporary Los Angeles, battling inner demons as he searches for a missing Hollywood producer’s granddaughter.

Meanwhile, Disney is gearing up to crack down on password-sharing for its streaming service starting in June, as CEO Bob Iger aims to boost subscriber growth and make the business profitable. Iger also hinted at the need for consolidation in the streaming industry and expressed a desire for double-digit margins for Disney’s streaming business.

On the film front, director Arkasha Stevenson fearlessly explores female body horror in “The First Omen,” featuring graphic birthing scenes and imagery of the female body. Stevenson emphasized the importance of not shying away from such visuals in the film.

Lastly, the musical “Mamma Mia!” is celebrating 25 years in London’s West End, with producer Judy Craymer reflecting on the show’s unexpected success and impact on musical theatre. The production, based on ABBA songs, has been seen in over 450 cities worldwide and has spawned two hit movies, offering a unique and lighter experience compared to other successful musicals of its time.