Commentary

'EW' Aims To Sort Out Overwhelming Streaming TV Landscape

I wrote yesterday about how content creators feel they’re too dependent on the big tech platforms — search, social media and associated products. And I wrote a few days ago about the ways in which formerly print-centric media companies are adapting and innovating in the digital space in sometimes interesting ways.

So when I read about a new Entertainment Weekly initiative to help viewers managing the proliferation of choices in TV these days, it felt like a natural synergy — 32-year-old EW’s natural mission adapted to the swirling, overwhelming new world of OTT TV.

The brand, now owned by Dotdash Meredith, has launched “What to Watch on Google TV,” a three- to five-minute monthly guide designed to assist viewers as they choose from entertainment programs streaming on the platform. The series is an extension of EW’s “What to Watch” podcast and video series, which premiered in 2020 offering the top three entertainment picks of the week. It’s hosted by four EW staffers who curate their selections.

Google TV is a smart TV experience built into televisions and streaming devices that offers movies, shows and live TV in one place.

In the first episode, available here, the hosts — EW General Manager and Editor in Chief Patrick Gomez, Executive Editor Gerrad Hall, Deputy Editor Chanelle Johnson, and TikTok Producer Jorie McDonald — lay out recommendations, including the discovery+ reality series "Trixie Motel," the Disney+ series "Ms. Marvel," season 3 of Amazon Prime Video’s "The Boys!",

In addition to being on Google TV, “What to Watch” can be viewed on EW.com and EW’s YouTube channel.

“With more content than ever at our fingertips, EW’s ‘What to Watch’ remains a vital resource for those who rely on us to curate what’s worth their time,” Gomez said, adding the partnership with Google TV "will expand the footprint of this franchise... providing our pop culture expertise where and when you need it most.”

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