Media Roundup: SBS film backlash, Seven reporter exits, Nine payout scrutiny, Paramount targets ByteDance, and Pop Mart expands Australia

See the top industry stories trending today.

Media

SBS faces backlash over Jewish film rejection

The Australian’s Steve Jackson writes that SBS is under fire for declining to acquire Mezuzah Man, a short film about a young Jewish Australian navigating identity and antisemitism in Bondi.

The taxpayer-funded broadcaster reportedly raised concerns that the content could be perceived as inflammatory by some communities.

The decision has drawn criticism from industry figures, who argue it contradicts SBS’s multicultural remit.

Seven News journalist Jodi Lee signs off

Jodi Lee has exited Seven after more than a decade with the network, bringing a 15-year television career to a close.

As Kyle Laidlaw reports in TV Blackbox, the Sydney-based journalist confirmed the move in a social post, marking the end of a long newsroom chapter.

Legal

Nine executives face scrutiny over Roberts-Smith payment

Nine’s top brass are set to come under the spotlight as details of a confidential payout tied to Ben Roberts-Smith’s former partner prepare to be released by the Federal Court.

As The Australian’s James Madden details, the high six-figure agreement had been kept secret until now.

AI

Paramount Skydance challenges ByteDance over AI content

Deadline’s Jill Goldsmith reports that Paramount Skydance has accused ByteDance of using its intellectual property to train AI models, sending a cease and desist letter to the tech company’s CEO.

The studio claims tools, including Seedance and Seedream, have used its content without permission.

Retail Media

Pop Mart expands Australia as Labubu drives demand

As The Australian’s Danielle Long reports, Pop Mart is accelerating its Australian expansion, naming the market as one of its most important globally.

The company reported significant growth across the Asia-Pacific region in early 2025, with Australia emerging as a key contributor.

The surge has been fuelled by the runaway popularity of its Labubu range.

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