ITV

Category: Television

  • Murdoch loses family trust case in Nevada

    Murdoch loses family trust case in Nevada

    MUMBAI: This is one battle he lost but he says he intends to fight it. 93 year old media baron Rupert Murdoch is one tough guy. Even at his age.

    He wanted to change the family trust, which gave his  four children equal voting rights to his empire, so that control would vest in his eldest son Lachlan’s hands who shared his right wing political beliefs. But he lost the case over the weekend when a Reno-Nevada probate commissioner  ruled against him and said he was acting in bad faith, when he tried to change the terms of the irrevocable trust and leave Lachlan in charge. 

    Murdoch owns 40 per cent of the voting stock in both Fox Corp and News Corp through the trust.  Upon his death James, Elisabeth , Lachlan and Prudence were to share control  of the trust equally. But the old man  wanted to change the terms of the trust  and put Lachlan, the CEO of Fox and chairman of News Corp  fully in charge upon his death. This was something his other children were not inclined to.

    Hence, they took their father to court in Nevada which was a probate court and was not open to the public. Earlier, a probate commissioner had told Murdoch senior that he could change the terms if what he was attempting to do was in good faith and in the best interests of his heirs. Murdoch senior had argued that were his other three children – Prudence, James and Elisabeth – to have voting power, they  would lean towards making his news outlets moderate which would harm their prospects as it would alienate the hard right wingers who supported it. 

    But the trio did not buy into this as they felt they would be left out and took their father and brother to court in Nevada. A case they won, following which they are now saying they would like mend and heal family relationships. 

    However, the family feud does not seem to have ended as the elder Murdoch said he was going to appeal against the probate commissioner’s decision.

  • 20th CNBC-TV18 IBLA honour leaders in innovation & growth

    20th CNBC-TV18 IBLA honour leaders in innovation & growth

    MUMBAI: The 20th edition of CNBC-TV18 India Business Leader Awards (IBLA), presented by Standard Chartered Bank, celebrated India’s visionary leaders who are driving innovation, growth, and transformation across industries through bold actions and impactful contributions.

    Emeritus, DLF chairman KP Singh received the ‘Hall of Fame recognition, cementing his legacy as a pioneer in the transformation of India’s real estate sector. The ‘Lifetime Achievement’ award was conferred on Serum Institute of India founder Cyrus Poonawalla for his extraordinary contribution to delivering affordable public health solutions globally. For her exceptional efforts in showcasing India’s cultural heritage and fostering global connections, Reliance Foundation chairperson Nita Ambani was honoured with the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Brand India’ award.

    Actor Rajkumar Rao was named ‘Entertainment Leader of the Year’ for his compelling performance in films like Srikanth and Stree 2. The managing director of Bajaj Auto, Rajiv Bajaj received the ‘Outstanding Company of the Year’ award for Bajaj Auto.

    The evening also featured engaging sessions with policymakers who offered thought-provoking insights on India’s economic landscape and growth opportunities.

    In a fireside chat, union minister of road transport & highways Nitin Gadkari said, “Our GDP structure highlights both challenges and opportunities. Agriculture contributes 14 per cent, manufacturing accounts for 22–24 per cent, and services dominate with 52–54 per cent. Despite this, 65 per cent of our population depends on agriculture, yet its growth rate remains at 14 per cent. This imbalance underscores the urgent need to embrace innovation, science, technology, and global best practices to enhance productivity. By shifting to value-added agriculture, empowering rural communities, and diversifying into energy production, we can elevate agricultural growth to 22 per cent, thereby increasing purchasing power in rural India and aligning it with our broader development goals.”

    In conversation with Network18’s editor-in-chief Rahul Joshi, Piyush Goyal, union minister of commerce and industry said, “I’ve long questioned how interest rates—whether high or low—truly impact the demand for essentials like onions, tomatoes, rice, or pulses. This outdated thinking, tied to traditional inflation metrics like CPI, no longer serves us. In fact, high interest rates may fuel inflation, further burdening the common man. It’s time for economists to come together and assess the real impact of monetary policy on food inflation. While the economy remains strong with positive indicators like GST collections and manufacturing growth, we must adapt to changing realities. I’m confident that by the end of the year, we will maintain our position as the fastest-growing economy globally. However, the debate around inflation and interest rates is one we can no longer afford to overlook.”

    In his first private media event after taking oath as Maharashtra’s chief minister, Devendra Fadnavis said, “The people of Maharashtra have given us an unprecedented mandate, and with it comes a great responsibility of driving India’s economy forward. Maharashtra has always been ahead, and I am proud to share that in just the first six months of this year, we have already achieved 90 per cent of last year’s FDI inflows—poised for a record-breaking year. In infrastructure, Maharashtra is leading the way with projects like the Badhwar port, which is set to become India’s largest and transformative development, such as the third Mumbai airport in Panvel and the Atal Setu connecting Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. Additionally, we are building a ‘third Mumbai,’ three times the size of the current city, to become India’s next business capital. Maharashtra offers unparalleled opportunities, and I assure you that conducting business here will be seamless and supportive. Together, we can make Maharashtra India’s first trillion-dollar sub-national economy.”

    The jury panel for IBLA 2024 comprised a distinguished group of senior industry leaders, including Bharat Forge chairman & managing director Babasaheb N Kalyani, who chaired the panel. Other esteemed jurors included Standard Chartered Bank CEO, India & South Asia Zarin Daruwala, State Bank of India chairman Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, Kotak Mahindra Bank managing director & CEO Ashok Vaswani, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise managing director Suneeta Reddy, Federal Bank managing director & CEO  KVS Manian, L&T  president, whole-time director & CFO  R Shankar Raman, Asian Paints CEO & managing director Amit Syngle, Cognizant CEO Ravi Kumar S, Titan Capital co-founder Kunal Bahl, and Blume Venture Advisors co-founder & managing partner Karthik Reddy.

    CNBC-TV18 India Business Leader Awards (IBLA) is a coveted leadership award, which celebrates trailblazers whose courage, vision, and influence are redefining success. Spread across seventeen categories, IBLA recognised emerging and established business leaders in its 20th edition.

    Here’s the full list of winners:

    CATEGORIES

    WINNERS

    BRAND CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR

    ARIEL

    YOUNG TURK OF THE YEAR

    NOISE

    YOUNG TURK STARTUP OF THE YEAR

    THE SLEEP COMPANY

    BREAKOUT BRAND OF THE YEAR

    		 BLISSCLUB

    OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO CLIMATE CONSCIOUSNESS

    BATX ENERGIES

    DISRUPTOR OF THE YEAR

    		 BLINKIT

    MOST PROMISING COMPANY OF THE YEAR

    PI INDUSTRIES

    OUTSTANDING BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR

    VELLAYAN SUBBIAH

    OUTSTANDING COMPANY OF THE YEAR

    BAJAJ AUTO

    IN MEMORIAM

    NARAYAN VAGHUL, VINEET NAYYAR, RANJIT SHAHANI, FALI NARIMAN

    OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO PUBLIC SERVICE

    SUNITA NARAIN

    OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO INDIAN ECONOMY

    IIT MADRAS (SPECIAL RECOGNITION)

    ENTERTAINMENT LEADER OF THE YEAR

    RAJKUMMAR RAO

    SPORTS LEADER OF THE YEAR

    INDIAN CHESS TEAM – TANIA SACHDEV

    LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

    DR CYRUS POONAWALLA

    OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO BRAND INDIA

    NITA AMBANI

    HALL OF FAME

    		 KP SINGH
  • For the love of cinema, DocuBay unveils Fanatics by Studio 9

    For the love of cinema, DocuBay unveils Fanatics by Studio 9

    MUMBAI: What drives a fan to worship their cinematic idols with the fervor of a devotee? Is it the larger-than-life stories, the charisma of the stars, or something deeper – a bond that transcends the screen? For South Indian cinema lovers, it’s all of this and more. Come 7 December 2024, DocuBay, the global documentary streaming platform from IN10 Media Network, invites you on an exhilarating journey with Fanatics – a stirring original feature that peels back the curtain on the extraordinary world of South Indian film devotion.

    From Tollywood to Sandalwood, this documentary delves into the heartfelt, and sometimes overwhelming, passion of fans who turn theaters into temples and actors into deities. Fanatics isn’t just a film; it’s a celebration of an emotion that millions live and breathe – a spectacle that promises to move, inspire, and leave you in awe. Mark your calendars, because this is one cinematic story you won’t want to miss.

    Through in-depth storytelling, Fanatics journeys into the cultural heartlands of south India to showcase the acts of devotion and reverence that redefine fandom. From building temples in honour of their idols to life-altering sacrifices, the documentary portrays not only the admiration fans hold but also the darker consequences of such passion. Beginning with Tamil actor-politician MG Ramachandran’s era, the film traces the evolution of fan culture to the present day, including figures like Rajinikanth and Allu Arjun.

    The documentary features candid interviews with Indian cinema icons such as Allu Arjun, Kichcha Sudeep, and Vijay Sethupathi, highlighting their perspectives on fan loyalty and the influence it wields on society. The film also examines the risks of fanaticism, including violent rivalries between fan groups.

    Arjun reflects in the documentary, “Cinema has become a very strong, integral part of the culture—it’s no longer just a source of entertainment. Stars are highly idolised in the South, more than anywhere else I have seen in the world. Many fans do wonderful charity work, and that is great energy being put to the right cause.”

    Sudeep shares his perspective, saying, “When I see people building temples for me or getting tattoos, it honestly scares me because I am a man of flaws. Over time, you begin to understand the purity of their emotions and the immense love they have for you. It teaches you responsibility and makes you a better human.”

    IN10 Media Network, managing director, Aditya Pittie expressed the vision behind Fanatics, “At DocuBay, our mission is to curate and deliver intriguing narratives that resonate with global audiences. With Fanatics, we aim to provide an in-depth look at the unparalleled devotion of South Indian cinema fans. This first-of-its-kind documentary reflects our commitment to diverse and impactful storytelling that drives engagement worldwide.”

    Fanatics delves into the symbiotic relationship between fan loyalty and the business of cinema, highlighting how this devotion directly influences the box-office success of south Indian films. By presenting stories of fans piercing their tongues, tattooing their bodies, and dedicating their lives to their idols, the documentary balances the awe-inspiring and cautionary tales of fandom.

    Produced by Studio 9, Fanatics offers an unfiltered view into the world of extraordinary devotion. The documentary premiered exclusively on DocuBay on 7 December 2024.

  • Republic Bharat unveils the logo of ‘Sangam – Sahitya, Sur aur Shakti’

    Republic Bharat unveils the logo of ‘Sangam – Sahitya, Sur aur Shakti’

    MUMBAI: Republic Bharat, the Hindi news channel of Republic Media Network, announced the launch of Sangam – Sahitya, Sur aur Shakti, a cultural initiative that highlights and showcases the essence of India’s artistic and cultural heritage.

    As per the press release, Republic Bharat mentioned reaching over 49 crore people annually and is watched by every second viewer in India’s TV universe, Republic Bharat is taking a bold step beyond the news to establish Sangam – Sahitya, Sur aur Shakti as a beacon of India’s rich traditions in literature, music, spirituality, and women empowerment.

    With Sangam – Sahitya, Sur aur Shakti, Republic Bharat promises an unparalleled energy of musical performances, inspiring storytelling, meaningful discussions, and vibrant cultural expressions. The initiative will feature a stellar lineup of India’s most revered speakers, musicians, writers, artists, and novelists, each contributing their unique voices to celebrate the nation’s legacy.

    Republic Media Network CEO Hersh Bhandari remarked: “As a network rooted in the principle of ‘Nation First,’ we firmly believe that culture lies at the heart of our national identity. With Sangam – Sahitya, Sur aur Shakti, we are launching a cultural IP that embodies this belief, showcasing India’s unmatched artistic brilliance to the world. This is more than an event; it’s a movement – a commitment to celebrating our traditions, creativity, and diversity.”

    Republic Media Network’s Sangam – Sahitya, Sur aur Shakti is poised to become a powerful platform for cultural dialogue and creative exchange, bringing together audiences from all walks of life. By weaving together music, literature, and art, the IP aspires to inspire a deeper appreciation for India’s timeless traditions while offering a fresh perspective on the cultural narratives that unite the nation.

  • Global Paris Olympics viewership rose 25 per cent: IOC-backed research

    Global Paris Olympics viewership rose 25 per cent: IOC-backed research

    MUMBAI: Guess which was amongst the top most watched televised sports event in 2024?

    The most engaging?

    The one which saw eye-popping growth on many parameters?

    If you are going to mention football and the Premier League, you would be far from the truth.  

    If you are going to say cricket and the IPL, you will have got it wrong.

    At least that’s what new research conducted on behalf of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)  by independent researchers would have us believe. It says that a record 84 per cent of the potential global audience followed the Olympic Games Paris 2024, translating into an audience of five billion people. 

    This  means that more than half of the world’s population followed the inspirational achievements of the Olympic athletes and the magic of the Olympic Games, underlining the massive success of the games in Paris.

    Digital platforms drove an unprecedented level of attention revealed the research. There were an estimated 412 billion engagements from 270 million posts on social media platforms. This represents a 290 per cent increase compared to the previous edition of the games.

    Media rights-holders (MRHs) delivered record results, driven in large part by this increased visibility on digital channels. Globally, there were 13 times more social media engagements on MRH handles than for the previous games’ edition. Some 70 per cent of the global audience watched on both television and digital platforms.

    There was a 25 per cent increase in the amount of coverage watched, with 28.7 billion hours of footage viewed around the world on MRH platforms. This meant every viewer watched on average nine hours of coverage, a 20 per cent increase on the previous games. In the home market of France, 95 per cent of the potential audience watched an average of 24 hours of coverage of the Olympic Games.

    The IOC’s own digital platforms and social handles generated 16.7 billion engagements, a 174 per cent increase on the previous edition of the games. Olympic athletes, national Olympic committees, international federations and organising committees all benefitted from the huge social media engagement, growing their digital presence and adding a combined 85 million followers to their main social media handles. There was a 200 per cent increase in internet searches related to Olympic sports and the Olympic Games compared to the previous edition of the Olympic Games.

    The report outlining these figures was presented to the IOC’s executive board at a meeting held last week  in Lausanne.

    IOC president Thomas Bach said: “Paris 2024 demonstrated the unprecedented global appeal of the Olympic Games. Audiences are following and interacting with the Olympic Games like never before. The independent surveys also demonstrate that people believe that the Olympic Movement’s mission to unite the world in peaceful competition is more important than ever in a divided world; and that the Olympic values truly resonate with younger generations. These were Olympic Games of a new era.”

    In consumer insight studies, 78 per cent of those surveyed said they believed the Olympic Games are more important than ever in a divided world. Three out of four people also believe that the IOC was successful in “bringing the world together in peaceful competition” and in “building a better world through sport.”

    According to an independent brand tracker study conducted in September 2024, the relevance of the Olympic Games with Gen Z is now higher than with the general population, including outperforming other demographic groups in the metrics of “engagement with the Olympics,” “brand affinity” and “brand relevance”. This was driven in particular by the “inspiring stories of the athletes,” the “buzz on social media” and “improved accessibility to content.”

    Seven out of 10 people deemed Paris 2024 a “success” and thought the games would leave a positive legacy.

    The experience of the Paris 2024 spectators surveyed was rated as “excellent” or “good” by 85 per cent for the ticketed events, 95 per cent for the free events, and 98 per cent for the Marathon Pour Tous. “Atmosphere,” “visual appearance” and “security” were cited as key drivers across all events.

    Some 95 per cent of athletes surveyed rated their overall experience positively, with 89 per cent rating “becoming an Olympian” and 91 per cent citing “competing at the biggest multi-sport event on earth” as fundamental motivations for participating at the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

    (The brand tracker, broadcast research, and consumer and athlete surveys were conducted by Nielsen, Ipsos and Publicis Sport & Entertainment. Across all consumer studies a total of more than 55,000 people in 18 countries were surveyed, with all respondents aged between 13 and 65. Potential global audience with access to follow the Olympic Games and over the age of 4 years old.)

  • Star Sports wins National Award for redefining inclusivity in broadcasting!

    Star Sports wins National Award for redefining inclusivity in broadcasting!

    MUMBAI: Why should feeling different ever mean being left out? In a world striving to embrace inclusivity, breaking biases and fostering equality isn’t just a moral obligation – it’s a celebration of humanity. Star Sports has shattered one of the most profound – the exclusion of differently-abled sports enthusiasts. In a groundbreaking leap towards inclusivity, India’s premier sports network has been recognised with the National Award for Institutions Engaged in Empowering Persons with Disabilities 2024. This honour, bestowed by the president of India, Droupadi Murmu, applauds a revolutionary initiative that has changed the game forever. With their sign language and descriptive commentary feed, Star Sports is not just broadcasting sports but building bridges, connecting Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, and Visually Impaired fans to the electrifying pulse of live sports like never before.

    Star Sports’ efforts to break communication barriers and expand access to live sports have been transformative. By addressing the needs of differently-abled fans, the network has set a benchmark in inclusive broadcasting, ensuring that no fan is left behind in the excitement of live sports.

    Expressing gratitude for the recognition, a Star Sports spokesperson said, “We are deeply honoured to receive this prestigious National Award. It reflects the dedication of our team to making sports accessible to all fans. Initiatives like the Sign Language and Descriptive Commentary Feed are integral to our mission of uniting sports lovers, regardless of their abilities. This award motivates us to continue innovating and ensuring inclusivity in sports broadcasting.”

    Star Sports plans to expand its commitment to inclusivity by exploring new ways to enhance the sports-viewing experience for all audiences, reaffirming its role as a leader in the broadcasting industry.
     

  • JioCinema experiments with legal drama Suits in Hindi

    JioCinema experiments with legal drama Suits in Hindi

    MUMBAI: Many of us English-speaking folks are familiar with legal drama Suits  that follows the sharp and charismatic Harvey Specter, one of New York’s top attorneys, and Mike Ross, a brilliant college dropout with a photographic memory. Despite lacking a law degree, Mike impresses Harvey with his raw talent and unconventional thinking, leading Harvey to hire him as an associate at the prestigious law firm Pearson Hardman. Together, they navigate complex cases while hiding Mike’s secret from the firm and the legal world.

    Now JioCinema is attempting to widen Suits‘ appeal to non-English speaking audiences – mainly in heartland Hindi-conversant India. For the first time ever, Bharat can dive into the high-stakes world of Suits in a way that feels closer than ever-every thrilling argument, every razor-sharp comeback, now delivered in Hindi. All nine seasons of the globally celebrated legal drama can be watched exclusively on its Peacock Hub through JioCinema Premium.

    This groundbreaking release reimagines the iconic series, bringing Harvey Specter’s charm, Mike Ross’s brilliance, and the relentless courtroom battles to a brand-new audience. Known for its gripping storytelling and unforgettable characters, Suits explores ambition, loyalty, and moral dilemmas against the backdrop of New York’s high-powered legal world. Featuring a stellar cast including Patrick J. Adams, Gabriel Macht, Meghan Markle, Sarah Rafferty, and Rick Hoffman, Suits has captivated global audiences with its wit, drama, and intensity. This Hindi adaptation is a cultural bridge, turning the global phenomenon into a deeply personal experience for Indian viewers.

    So, whether viewers are meeting Harvey and Mike for the first time or reliving their legendary partnership, Suits in Hindi is an experience many may not want to miss. 

    The platform marked the launch with a striking promo set to Yo Yo Honey Singh’s hit track Millionaire, capturing the ambition and drama synonymous with the series.

    Said Singh:  “I’m thrilled to see Millionaire resonate with a powerhouse series like Suits! The song celebrates ambition, confidence, and the drive to succeed—values that perfectly align with the show’s iconic characters and their journeys. I created this song not just for millionaires but for those aspiring to rise from the streets and achieve success. Coming from New Delhi myself, I owe everything to my fans who made this possible.”

    JioCinema Premium offers an ad-free, high-definition streaming experience for just Rs 29 per month. Alongside Suits, subscribers gain access to a diverse range of international films, family-friendly content, and exclusive originals, ensuring unmatched value for Indian audiences.

     

     

  • News9 becomes the arena for live football

    News9 becomes the arena for live football

    MUMBAI: In a moment as unpredictable as a last-minute goal, News9 shattered the conventional boundaries of news broadcasting by stepping onto the turf of live sports. On 4 December, the channel made history as the first Indian news network to air a professional football match, delivering Bayer Leverkusen’s nail-biting 1-0 triumph over Bayern Munich in the German Cup directly from the iconic Allianz Arena. A gamble so audacious it bordered on bizarre, this bold move rewrote the rules of news broadcasting—proving, as they say, that sometimes the wildest ideas yield the greatest victories.

    The live broadcast showcased News9’s commitment to redefining news content by integrating sports and entertainment, captivating a broader audience. The match, rich in drama, featured Bayer Leverkusen’s resilience against the might of Bayern Munich, led by a game-changing header from substitute Nathan Tella in the 69 minute. Bayern Munich, reduced to 10 men after Manuel Neuer’s red card in the 17 minute, failed to break through despite standout performances by Kingsley Coman and Leon Goretzka.

    “This is a historic moment not just for News9 but for Indian news media as a whole,” said TV9 Network, MD & CEO, Barun Das. “Bringing live football action to a news platform demonstrates our commitment to evolving news content to meet the diverse interests of our audience. This marks the beginning of a new era in engaging and relevant broadcasting.”

    News9 complemented its live telecast with in-depth pre- and post-match analysis, featuring insights from seasoned football experts. The channel also offered a concise recap for viewers, highlighting Bayer Leverkusen’s determination and Bayern Munich’s first defeat of the season in league and cup matches.

    News9’s foray into live sports broadcasting signals a bold step forward in blending news with entertainment. This initiative underscores the channel’s innovative approach to broadening its audience base while maintaining its commitment to quality journalism.

  • FanCode has acquired exclusive streaming rights of HWC 2024

    FanCode has acquired exclusive streaming rights of HWC 2024

    MUMBAI: Imagine catching the thrill of world-class golf, the pristine greens of Albany in the Bahamas glistening under the sun, and Tiger Woods teeing off—all without spending a single rupee. FanCode, the sports streaming platform known for its affordable Rs 19 passes, is taking a swing at something extraordinary this December. With exclusive streaming rights in hand, it’s offering Indian golf fans free access to the prestigious Hero World Challenge 2024, streaming live from 5-8 December.

    Hosted by Tiger Woods, the Hero World Challenge stands as a marquee event on the international golf calendar, supporting the TGR Foundation and drawing the world’s top golfing talent. The 2024 lineup includes global stars such as Scottie Scheffler, Jason Day, Ludvig Aberg, and Justin Thomas. Three Indian-origin golfers — Sahith Theegala, Akshay Bhatia, and Aaron Rai — will also feature, adding a special connection for Indian fans.

    The competition will see eight members of the victorious 2024 U.S. Presidents Cup team, including Scheffler, Patrick Cantlay, Sahith Theegala, and Wyndham Clark, battling it out against international stars like Jason Day, Tom Kim, and Sungjae Im.

    The partnership between Hero and the Tiger Woods Foundation, which began in 2014, will extend through 2030, making it one of the longest-running collaborations on the PGA Tour. This iconic event continues to uphold its reputation for delivering world-class golf and supporting a noble cause.

    “FanCode is committed to making global sports more accessible to Indian audiences,” a spokesperson from FanCode said. “Bringing premium events like the Hero World Challenge for free aligns with our mission to deliver the best sports content to fans.”

    Stream Details

    . Dates: 5-8 December 2024

    .  Platform: FanCode app and website

    .  Cost: Free

  • Adidas’ documentary about its Predator football boots set to premiere on 11 December

    Adidas’ documentary about its Predator football boots set to premiere on 11 December

    MUMBAI: When did a scruffy pair of boots ever stop us from chasing the ball as kids? 

    Fast forward to today, football boots have grown into a colossal $18.5 billion industry (2023), charging ahead with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8 per cent through 2030. From backyard dreams to global domination, these humble boots have become the unsung heroes of the beautiful game. 

    Take Adidas’ iconic Adipure 11Pro, for instance-a pair that has etched its legacy into football history, gracing the feet of Toni Kroos as he lifted more trophies than even the legendary FC Barcelona, all while donning the same boots since their release in 2013.

    In a journey that spans three decades of passion, innovation, and unrelenting excellence, Adidas celebrates the 30th anniversary of its legendary football boot franchise Predator with a cinematic masterpiece, Under The Tongue, a documentary that peels back the layers of emotion, craft, and cultural impact behind the boot franchise. 

    Directed by Keane Shaw and produced with online soccer creative culture publisher SoccerBible’s creative touch, the film promises to be as much a love letter to football as it is a testament to the humble boot’s extraordinary story. The trailer of the film was scheduled to premier today  (5 December) with the promise to leave fans inspired, nostalgic, and utterly awestruck.

    The hour-long documentary features the era-defining footballers that made adidas’ Predator football boot brand so iconic in its early years – including David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane, and Eniola Aluko – as well as current stars such as Jude Bellingham, Alessia Russo, Aitana Bonmatí and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who reflect on early memories and what it means to be a part of the Predator family. It also weaves an emotional tapestry of memories as senior adidas executives, visionary design team members, and devoted fans like Louis Tomlinson, reminisce about the moment Predator emerged and changed the game forever.

    Craig Johnston, the mastermind behind the revolutionary Predator design, vividly recalls his eureka moment—repurposing rubber to craft the iconic Predator teeth that forever altered how the ball moves off a player’s foot. With heartwarming nostalgia and raw determination, Johnston shares how a coaching session for kids inspired a concept that, against all odds, graced the world’s biggest stages by 1994.

    Adidas global football general manager, Nick Craggs said: “Predator changed the game. We know what it means to us all at adidas but as we come to the end of its 30th anniversary we felt it was fitting to hear from those that played such a crucial role in cementing its place in football culture. It has helped push the boundaries of innovation on the field of play and inspire millions off it – we now take it into the future and hopefully another 30 years of iconic moments with the world’s best players.”

    SoccerBible creative director Pete Martin said: “The Predator is a boot with such a profound legacy that it was a real honour to have crafted ‘Under The Tongue’ alongside Keane Pearce Shaw. A boot with such personality too, not only does it mean so much to the culture of the game but it has been an unrivalled yet consistent giver of glory. There are few products on the planet that can, have or ever will, evoke such memories and feelings as that of the Predator. It’s almost immortal. That’s what we have tried to capture with this film – that powerful infatuation – a charming icon with bite, flair and beauty.”

    The 60-second trailer offers a glimpse into the untold journey, now live across Adidas’ social channels. But the real story unfolds on 11 December, when Under The Tongue premieres at 9 PM CET on the adidas football YouTube channel. Football fans, mark your calendars, as this promises to be more than just a documentary