A ”Succession” Drama in Real Life: Unscripted: The Epic Battle for a Media Empire and the Redstone Family Legacy.

The ever-evolving landscape of business, finance, entertainment, and medicine is often shaped by technological advancements and cultural changes. However, those in power during these changes often resist them and try to maintain their grip on the status quo, particularly if family is involved. This is exemplified in the TV show "Succession" and James B. Stewart's books, including "Disney Wars," "Den of Thieves," "Deep State," "Tangled Webs," and "Blood Sport."

The pandemic was a transformational event for the entertainment industry, but the #MeToo movement was also a catalyst for change, with Harvey Weinstein as its poster child. Additionally, the theatrical movie business faced pressure from the ongoing streaming wars, which have altered the fabric of Hollywood.

All of these forces come together in the story of Sumner Redstone, his family, and his mistresses. Redstone was a one-time movie theater magnate and the owner of Paramount, Viacom, CBS, and Simon and Schuster. In his 90s, he was surrounded by hangers-on, adversaries, family members, and a group of women whose experiences highlighted the worst of Hollywood, even in modern times. When you add the worst of corporate governance to the mix, you have the story that James B. Stewart and Rachel Abrams tell in "

 

My conversation with James Stewart and Rachel Abrams: