The Changing Face of Sports and Culture
Sports have become a big deal in the world of media. Companies like Amazon and Netflix are spending a lot of money to show NFL games. In 2024, 40 of the top 50 TV shows were NFL games. Only a few other events, like the presidential debates and the Thanksgiving Day parade, made the list.
The Fight for Sports Rights
This fight for sports rights is huge. Disney, Amazon, Netflix, and others are all trying to get a piece of the action. They are spending billions of dollars. But what does this mean for the average person?
The Past vs. The Present
In the past, everyone could watch big events together. Shows like the Super Bowl and the Oscars were free for everyone to enjoy. This helped people feel connected, no matter their background. But now, things are changing. More and more, only people with money can afford to watch certain events.
The Broader Impact
This is not just about sports. Companies like Disney used to make shows for everyone. Now, they focus on wealthy people. This divides society even more. People are split by politics, geography, and now, class.
The NFL and Public Funding
The NFL is not a free-market enterprise. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and the Chicago Bears get money from taxpayers to build stadiums. If the public is paying for these stadiums, shouldn't the games be available to everyone?