Netflix Eyes Acquisition of 'Hot Ones' for Exclusive Live Editions Amid BuzzFeed's Financial Struggles
September 13, 2024Netflix is currently in discussions to acquire live editions of the popular YouTube talk show 'Hot Ones,' which features celebrities eating spicy chicken wings while being interviewed by host Sean Evans.
The negotiations for this potential acquisition were first reported by Bloomberg's Lucas Shaw.
BuzzFeed, which owns the show through its First We Feast brand, is reportedly seeking to sell 'Hot Ones' amid financial challenges, making the timing of the negotiations favorable.
The likelihood of the deal progressing appears strong, as Netflix is actively looking to diversify its content offerings and BuzzFeed is open to selling.
However, the discussions are still in the early stages, and no formal agreements have been reached yet.
This move comes as traditional late-night talk shows face declining ratings and budgets, prompting Netflix to explore different formats to attract viewers.
Netflix has previously experimented with talk shows but has struggled to achieve significant success, leading to a desire for unique live experiences.
If the deal materializes, Sean Evans will host the live versions exclusively for Netflix, enhancing the platform's expanding lineup of live programming.
Since its debut in 2015, 'Hot Ones' has gained immense popularity, attracting tens of millions of viewers on YouTube and featuring numerous A-list celebrities.
The show has hosted a variety of high-profile guests, including Jennifer Lawrence, Paul Rudd, and Ariana Grande, making it a popular promotional platform for celebrities.
Concerns have been raised that Netflix might alter the show's format or turn it into a promotional platform for its own content, potentially detracting from its original charm.
Despite these concerns, 'Hot Ones' is relatively inexpensive to produce, costing about the same as a meal for two at Buffalo Wild Wings, making it an appealing addition for Netflix.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources
Forbes • Sep 14, 2024
The Good And Bad News Of Netflix Buying ‘Hot Ones,’ PotentiallyTechCrunch • Sep 14, 2024
‘Hot Ones’ could add some heat to Netflix’s live lineup | TechCrunchThe Verge • Sep 13, 2024
Netflix wants to stream live episodes of Hot OnesVariety • Sep 13, 2024
Netflix in Talks to Air ‘Hot Ones’ Live Shows