Full Breakdown
John Krasinski's Some Good News Transitions to ViacomCBS
1/20/2026, 1:48:59 AM
Licensing Agreement with ViacomCBS
John Krasinski's web series, *Some Good News* (SGN), has been licensed to ViacomCBS following a competitive bidding process. The deal allows CBS All Access, which is set to be rebranded this summer, to have the first window for new episodes before they are distributed across various ViacomCBS linear networks. While Krasinski will remain involved as an executive producer, he will not host the upcoming episodes, with a new host to be announced later. Krasinski expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “Could not be more excited and proud to be partnering with CBS/Viacom to be able to bring Some Good News to so many more people!”
Background and Context
*Some Good News* was launched in late March 2020 by Krasinski during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to provide uplifting content to audiences confined at home. Initially self-financed and produced, the series quickly gained popularity, amassing 2.56 million subscribers on YouTube and achieving view counts as high as 17 million for individual episodes. The series featured notable segments, including reunions of *The Office* cast and the original Broadway cast of *Hamilton*. Corporate sponsors, such as AT&T and the Boston Red Sox, began to support the show with giveaways, further enhancing its reach.
Key Figures Involved
John Krasinski, known for his roles in *The Office* and *Jack Ryan*, created and produced SGN through his production company, Sunday Night Productions, alongside partner Allyson Seeger. George Cheeks, the president of CBS Entertainment Group, played a crucial role in securing the licensing deal for SGN, marking one of his first significant actions since taking over leadership in late March 2020.
Why It Matters
The transition of *Some Good News* to ViacomCBS represents a significant shift in how digital content can be integrated into traditional media platforms. This deal not only expands the audience for SGN but also aligns with ViacomCBS's strategy to enhance its content offerings across its various brands. The partnership is expected to maintain the series' original mission of spreading positivity while leveraging ViacomCBS's extensive distribution capabilities.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding the deal, some critics have expressed concerns about the commercialization of a series that initially thrived on its grassroots, independent spirit. There are apprehensions that the new corporate structure may alter the show's tone and accessibility, which were key to its initial success.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the deal has been widely reported, specific details regarding the second window for SGN episodes and the involvement of broadcast networks remain unclear. Additionally, it is uncertain how Krasinski's on-air presence will manifest in the new format.
Verbatim Quotes
“From the first episode, our goal was to create a news show dedicated entirely to good news.” — John Krasinski, Creator and Executive Producer
“Comedy Central Productions is excited to partner with John and bring his beloved Some Good News to audiences around the world through ViacomCBS’ family of brands,” — Chris McCarthy, President of Entertainment & Youth Group, ViacomCBS
In summary, the licensing of *Some Good News* to ViacomCBS marks a pivotal moment for the series, promising to broaden its reach while navigating the challenges of maintaining its original charm in a corporate environment.
