Streaming or AI didn’t take down Hollywood; people did.

Every character in this transaction suffered from Hollywood Derangement Syndrome, believing the Paramount brand still holds any cultural currency. It doesn’t. Meanwhile, they didn’t comprehend that Hollywood is up against the same unbeatable enemy that cable news faces: people.

Research shows Gen Z views their favorite influencers in the same way they view their friends. We know what clothes they wear, what food they eat, and what brands they buy. This has radically transformed the retail economy, so much so that 40% of us now consult an influencer before we make a purchase.

America has fallen out of love with brands and in love with people. This is evident in every corner of American life — from politics and business to technology and media. People are the new brands.