7 chapters across the catalog
Michael Jackson's performance at the MTV Video Music Awards was contingent on the Video Vanguard Award being named after him. Adam Curry describes visiting Jackson's studio, where he saw the singer standing on an apple crate to appear taller and witnessed Howie Mandel performing voices for children. Curry laments that younger generations are largely unaware of Jackson's massive cultural impact.
Vice Media Funding and David Icke Documentary
Vice Media reportedly secured $250 million in debt financing from a consortium led by George Soros following significant layoffs. The hosts examine a Vice documentary about David Icke, criticizing it for mischaracterizing Icke's famous 1991 interview on the Terry Wogan show. They argue that Vice's editorial direction is influenced by its need for survival and corporate funding.
Vice Media Business Model and Tom Arnold Series
The business strategy of Vice Media is critiqued, characterizing the organization as an advertising agency rather than a traditional news outlet. There is skepticism regarding the longevity of Tom Arnold's show, with suggestions that the production relies on sensationalism and "guest abuse" for engagement.
Vice co-founder Shane Smith interviewed Secretary of Defense Ash Carter aboard a military aircraft, discussing alleged Russian cyberattacks on the Pentagon. The interview is dismissed as a "poorly done" propaganda piece facilitated by former MTV CEO Tom Freston's connections. The hosts argue that if the Russian attacks were as severe as claimed, the U.S. would be taking more aggressive military action rather than discussing it in a lifestyle magazine.
Vice Media Valuation and Potential Acquisition of HLN
Vice Media CEO Shane Smith discussed the company's aggressive acquisition strategy, targeting "distressed media assets" like magazines and television networks. Smith hinted that Vice is interested in acquiring HLN (Headline News), claiming the network is currently performing poorly and could be revitalized under Vice's management.
The credibility and valuation of Vice Media are questioned, with the hosts suggesting that many of their "edgy" documentaries are scripted or rigged. The involvement of former Viacom executive Tom Freston and founder Shane Smith is highlighted as Vice moves toward a multi-billion dollar valuation.
Skepticism regarding Vice Magazine's exclusive five-part documentary series on ISIS. The segment questions how Vice obtained such high-quality, scripted-looking footage and suggests the organization, led by former MTV executive Tom Freston, may be facilitating a specific narrative about the terror group's capabilities and brutality.
