mediagroup
music
sound
records
all services
staff
6 bold predictions for 2026

 

As 2025 comes to an end, we all like to take a look ahead. Some things may be obvious. Some trends look inevitable. But once in a while, the biggest and boldest moves that were talked about as impossible... actually happen.


Here are my 6 BOLD Predictions for 2026! Take it with a grain of salt, unless they do come true, they you can say your read it here first. 


#1 Apple Acquires Disney


Netflix and Paramount have been making big moves in 2025. So where is Apple and Disney in all of this? Disney is the crown jewel of entertainment. Bob Iger has been looking for his succession plan and Apple could be it. Just imagine if Apple were to integrate their technology into Disney Parks. Disney gets a global partner with deep pockets and together they define the next generation of media experiences. 


Is this Big and Bold? Yes. But not impossible. It's my #1 BOLD Prediction for 2026. 


#2 Warner Bros. Discovery splits Film/TV studios and the TV side returns back and is rebranded as Discovery (Sound Familiar?)


As Netflix consolidates Warner Bros. film empire, the TV side of Warner Bros. Discovery quietly reverts to its old roots: Television. And they become Discovery. A move that is a return to focus: niche, non-fiction content that doesn't compete head-to-head with Paramount and Netflix. And yes, more Shark Week!


#3 AI User-Generated Content Peaks, Human Stories Become Premium Again


By 2026, the novelty of AI-generated content fades. Yoda fighting Buzz Lightyear was fun. But that desire to watch fades. What matters again is taste, point of view, and storytelling that resonates. AI is infrastructure, Human art is premium. 


#4 The First A-List Star Headlines a Vertical Drama


Why not? Vertical Dramas have become an $8 Billion Dollar global industry. For 7 days of work and the right paycheck, I think this could happen. And once it does, vertical drama content will earn prestige and credibility. Brad Pitt, let's make this real!


#5 The Metaverse Makes a Quiet, Strategic Comeback


The Metaverse didn't die, it evolves. In 2026, with headsets and tech wearing glasses becoming viable, virtual production stages, interactive fan experiences, music, and IP activations actually start to generate revenue. This won't be dominating the headlines, but behind the scenes, there is slow growth and the Metaverse quietly becomes a revenue ecosystem for brands and creators who figured out the best uses for this new and exciting world. 


#6 (Spoiler Alert) PrimalHouse Expands to New Jersey 


In 2026, we launch PrimalHouse New Jersey, strategically to align with the growing presence of Netflix, Paramount, and Lionsgate. We are building our East Coast hub to support production, music licensing, and music compliance expertise into the heart of the entertainment industry of New Jersey. 


Wishing everyone a healthy and prosperous 2026, the year that bold moves meet opportunity. 


What's your BOLD Prediction for 2026? I'd love to hear about it. 


#MediaTrends2026 #EntertainmentIndustry #AIContent #MetaverseInnovation #MusicIndustry #BoldPredictions