Reposted by Norman Lear CenterHollywood, Health & Society @hollywdhealth.bsky.social · 10/09/2026We are delighted to announce the 2026 Norman Lear Awards where we will be celebrating 10 TV shows whose storytelling makes a difference across critical health and social issues. This year's ceremony is hosted by Jay Pharoah on Oct. 29 in Beverly Hills! hollywoodhealthandsociety.org/2026-norman-... 012
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 09/09/2026Lear Center Director Marty Kaplan joins author and filmmaker Jon Boorstin to discuss 'The American,' a new book exploring family, history, identity and the stories that get left out. At its heart is what it means to be American. Watch: youtu.be/aoxXeLM81Tk?...youtu.beJon Boorstin Discusses The American with Marty KaplanYouTube video by UGAPress 000
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 27/08/2026What happens on screen can shape conversations about death off screen. On What About Death!?, @hollywdhealth.bsky.social's Kate Folb and our Director of Research Erica Rosenthal discuss how we work with creatives to inform authentic end-of-life stories and research their impact on audiences. 012
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 14/07/2026In a new Forbes interview, 'The Pitt' executive producer Simran Baidwan highlights our recent study on the show's real-world impact, including findings that show's organ donation storyline inspired viewers to learn more about becoming donors. www.forbes.com/sites/markhu...forbes.comInterview: ‘The Pitt’ Simran Baidwan On Care And Grace Under Pressure"The Pitt" EP and writer Simran Baidwan explains the Emmy-winning series commitment to authenticity in both medical and human terms. 012
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 02/06/2026In accepting the Walter Cronkite Award, CBS News's Scott Pelley offered a powerful defense of journalism and its role in serving the public. Today, perhaps more than ever, his remarks are worth hearing. 020
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 15/05/2026Entertainment can shape social norms, influence health outcomes, and drive measurable social impact. On May 18 at #CannesFilmFestival Managing Director @mojojohanna.bsky.social joins leaders from The World Bank and the University of Pennsylvania for a conversation hosted by The Impact Lounge. 020
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 27/04/2026Expert-informed narratives strengthen storytelling and raise standards industry-wide, says Kate Folb, @hollywdhealth.bsky.social Director: “Because [The Pitt] is so incredibly accurate, other medical shows ...feel like they really have to up their game." www.insidehighered.com/news/faculty...insidehighered.comFaculty Consulted on Blockbusters Like “The Pitt,” “Sinners”From Only Murders in the Building to The Pitt, faculty members are lending their expertise to Hollywood to help tell an accurate story. 000
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 24/04/2026If climate stories only show disaster…do we start to believe nothing can change? Director of Research Erica Rosenthal shares how storytelling can move audiences from fear to action. The full talk can be found here: www.youtube.com/live/y0XqBFA... 012
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 17/04/2026If climate stories only show catastrophe, do audiences feel powerless? Our Director of Research Erica Rosenthal shares our body on research on climate storytelling at the @sierraclub.org symposium and how stories can shift narratives and drive action. Watch: www.youtube.com/live/y0XqBFA... 010
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 15/04/2026There’s been almost no research on how Black journalists are portrayed in popular culture. A new IJPC Journal special section begins to change that, offering first-of-its-kind analysis across film, TV, and literature. Read more: www.ijpc.org/page/journal... 000
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 17/02/2026The first-ever USC symposium exploring the intersection of arts, health, medicine and wellness brings together faculty, artists & healthcare leaders for panels, talks, and live demos. Opening keynote by Kate Folb, director of our @hollywdhealth.bsky.social program: calendar.usc.edu/event/arts-h...calendar.usc.eduArts + Health: A USC Arts Now Symposium 001
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 12/02/2026The Walter Cronkite Awards For Excellence in Political Journalism honor reporting that holds power accountable and strengthens democracy through accuracy, independence, and integrity. Watch highlights from the 2025 acceptance speeches: www.cronkiteawards.org/2025ceremony... 0184
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 03/02/2026Latinos make up nearly 20% of the U.S. population—but just 6% of roles in top broadcast TV. Our latest research examines how Latino characters are portrayed—and what’s missing. Featured in the Los Angeles Times (De Los). bit.ly/4c7HDoubit.lyNew study shows Latinos account for only 6% of roles in top U.S. broadcast seriesThe data comes from a new study by ¡Pa’lante!, a Latino representation initiative from the USC Norman Lear Center, that examines the status and cultural impact of Latino representation in entertainmen... 011
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 31/01/2026Latino communities span 20+ countries, each with distinct cultures, yet that specificity rarely appears on screen. While Latino actors reflect a wide range of backgrounds, the characters they’re cast as are far more limited. Our new report explores these gaps: learcenter.org/latinorepresentationlearcenter.org¡Pa’lante! Latinos in EntertainmentRead the Press Release The Wrap Lear Center Launches New Initiative to Research Representation on TV | Exclusive 032
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 27/01/2026LIVE today at 10am PT: Director of Research Erica Rosenthal shares our Lear Center research on audience reactions to HBO Max's 'The Pitt.' www.kqed.org/forum/201010...kqed.orgCalifornia ER Doctors Reflect on ‘The Pitt’ Effect | KQEDWe talk to California ER physicians about the effect TV show 'The Pitt' has had on their lives and work. 042
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 16/01/2026How does the medical community view HBO Max’s Emmy-winning drama The Pitt? Lear Center Research Director Erica Rosenthal and Hollywood, Health & Society Director Kate Langrall Folb break it down on the podcast Tomorrow Will Be Televised. tomorrowwillbetelevised.com/episodes/tom... 031
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 09/01/2026As The Pitt enters season two, new Lear Center research shows that thoughtful medical storytelling resonates with clinicians — and motivates audiences to seek out and share real-world health information. learcenter.org/ThePitt parade.com/news/medical...parade.comMedical Doctors Say ‘The Pitt’ Gets It Right — Here's Why That Actually MattersA USC study found that the Max drama resonates for its realism, and can even move audiences to seek out health information. 010
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 12/12/2025ICYMI: Rachel Maddow, Scott Pelley, Peter Alexander and others joined Lear Center Director Marty Kaplan on stage for the 2025 Walter Cronkite Awards at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. The full event video is here: www.c-span.org/program/publ...c-span.orgWalter Cronkite Awards for Excellence in TV Political JournalismRecipients of the 2025 Walter Cronkite Awards for Excellence in TV Political Journalism participate in an award ceremony in Washington, DC. 011
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 12/12/2025Streaming now on C-SPAN2 & the C-SPAN app | YouTube | Hulu + Live TV 010
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 05/11/2025Our Managing Director @mojojohanna.bsky.social has partnered with @worldbank and global leaders in Abuja, Nigeria for Entertaining Change—a gathering exploring how storytelling and strategy can drive social impact. The conversation continues in Lagos, streaming live here: youtube.com/@evgworld1youtube.com 020
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 04/11/2025This week, our Managing Director @mojojohanna.bsky.social has convened with #TheWorldBank and global partners in Nigeria for "Entertaining Change" — a powerful gathering that is exploring how storytelling and strategy can drive social impact at scale. www.worldbank.org/en/events/20... 011
Reposted by Norman Lear CenterBeth Hoffman @bethlhoffman.bsky.social · 30/10/2025Grateful that I had the opportunity to consult on the @learcenter.bsky.social's latest study, which looked at the impact of The Pitt's organ donation and end-of-life care storylines on viewers: www.mediaimpactproject.org/thepitt.htmlmediaimpactproject.orgLife & Death in The PittFor nearly 25 years, our Hollywood, Health & Society program has served as a free and trusted resource to the entertainment industry, providing accurate information and access to experts for... 253
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 15/09/2025Congrats to HBO Max’s The Pitt on its Emmy wins — Outstanding Drama Series plus honors for Noah Wyle & Katherine LaNasa! @hollywdhealth.bsky.social helped connect the writers with experts so stories, characters & challenges felt real. Research on how it resonates with audiences will be out this fall 063
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 04/09/2025Celebrating stories that make a difference! From The Pitt to Matlock to Shrinking, the New Norman Lear Awards honor TV tackling racism, climate, addiction & more—marking 25 years of honoring storytelling that sparks change. deadline.com/2025/09/the-...deadline.com‘The Pitt,’ ‘Matlock,’ ‘Shrinking’ & More Among New Norman Lear AwardsThe Pitt, Matlock, Shrinking and others have been honored with Hollywood, Health & Society's renamed Norman Lear Awards for TV. 041
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 28/07/2025In the @financialtimes.com: Colbert may keep skewering CBS until he is let go then turn to podcasts or streaming, says Lear Center Director Marty Kaplan. Don’t expect a comedy successor — “what the new ownership wants CBS to be is not what brilliant comedy is about.” bit.ly/4lbkq5Wbit.lyStephen Colbert, the cancelled late night TV hostThe comedian’s ousting ahead of Paramount’s $8bn sale to Skydance raises concerns about political interest in US media 010
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 27/07/2025Today we honor Norman Lear on what would have been his 103rd birthday. His belief that stories could spark conversation — and change — shaped television and culture. We continue exploring how media influences the way we see ourselves and each other — work made possible by his vision. 021
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 22/07/2025Can TV help fight cancer? Join @hollywdhealth for this virtual Lunch & Learn on using humor+storytelling to normalize breast, gynecologic & colorectal cancer screenings. Featuring public health experts+TV creatives. Aug 5 | ⏰ 12:30–1:30pm PT Online RSVP: www.eventbrite.com/e/tv-screens...eventbrite.comTV Screens for Cancer: New Approaches to a Difficult SubjectTV storylines can play a crucial role in getting the message out about the importance of cancer prevention and early detection. 021
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 15/07/2025Most TV deaths are violent, but that’s not how most people die. Max's 'The Pitt' got it right — thanks to guidance from @hollywdhealth.bsky.social and #EndWell showing the real emotional and ethical complexities of end-of-life care. www.medscape.com/viewarticle/...medscape.comWhat ‘The Pitt’ Can Teach Us About Hospital DeathsCan more accurate portrayals of natural death in the media improve awareness and understanding of this part of life? One doctor wants to find out. 041
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 03/07/2025Accuracy matters—especially when it comes to health storylines on TV. Aspen Ideas: Health invited Grey’s Anatomy showrunner Zoanne Clack,MD, and Lear Center Director Marty Kaplan to talk about how entertainment can drive understanding—and why getting it right is more than just good storytelling. 020
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 27/06/2025What a privilege to know Bill Moyers as a journalist and a friend. His boundless curiosity, penetrating mind, generosity, humanity — he taught us all so much. I'm grateful to have had him in my life, & I join so many of Bill's colleagues & friends in sending condolences to Judith & their family.-MK 032
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 24/06/2025Today! 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM PT Storytelling in the Age of Climate. How can filmmakers tackle the climate crisis and tell unforgettable stories? Our Director of Research Erica Rosenthal joins this virtual panel on blending real science with powerful, cinematic storytelling.filmindependent.orgSloan Salon: Storytelling in the Age of Climate: Big Screen, Real Stakes - Film IndependentAs climate change shapes our reality, it also transforms the stories we tell. Film Independent is proud to partner with the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation for 031
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 19/06/2025How do filmmakers tell powerful stories about the climate crisis—without losing the heart? Research Dir. Erica Rosenthal joins this virtual #SloanSalon conversation with writers, producers & researchers. Hosted by @filmindependent.org and @sloanfoundation.bsky.social shorturl.at/pzJ2E 031
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 16/06/2025The harms of social media go far beyond kids and teens—but are stories and coverage keeping up? Our new study funded by @luminategroup.bsky.social explores how news and entertainment portray tech’s impact on society—and what audiences want to see. ➜ learcenter.org/technologylearcenter.orgBig Tech in MediaTo understand how the harms of social media and technology are covered in media and entertainment — as well as audiences' appetites for such stories — we conducted a multi-method study across... 021
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 12/06/2025“These two are always on stage and aware of it,” says @martykaplan.bsky.social of Trump and Newsom. Their clash isn’t just about policy — it’s about perception and control of the narrative. The fight over California has become a national drama about democracy itself.theglobeandmail.comDonald Trump and Gavin Newsom are complicated combatantsThe two are in the spotlight in a dramatic dispute over both values and tactics 020
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 12/05/2025At the Norman Lear Center, we’re committed to tackling the climate crisis through research + storytelling—partnering with creators to inspire action through film, TV, and media. 🌱📺 Learn more: www.learcenter.org/climatechange #ClimateStorytelling #HollywoodClimateSummitlearcenter.org 010
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 12/05/2025We’re proud to be a community partner of the 2025 Hollywood Climate Summit—June 2–4 in LA & online! 🌎 Get 50% off w/ code PARTNERHCS25 Explore how storytelling can power climate action. 🎟 hollywoodclimatesummit.com/ticketshollywoodclimatesummit.comTICKETING | HCS 2025 130
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 29/04/2025Lear Center Director Marty Kaplan reflects on a hard truth in today's Guardian: the show that once redefined TV journalism is now caught between profits and principles — and under Trump’s pressure, it’s the principles that are at risk. www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025...theguardian.comTrump v 60 Minutes is a stunning battle for the soul of US mediaThe US president’s tensions with the CBS show barely scratch the surface of his crusade against the media 020
Reposted by Norman Lear CenterJohanna Blakley @mojojohanna.bsky.social · 01/04/2025Considering that 1 in 5 Americans describe themselves as having Latino heritage, it is shocking how little screentime they receive in film & TV. This new program @learcenter.bsky.social starts to address the problem. #storiesmatter 011
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 21/03/2025Director Marty Kaplan on Hollywood’s shifting approach to diversity: “Really never, but especially right now, no studio wants its movie branded as a D.E.I. lesson.”nytimes.comInside the Controversy Surrounding Disney’s ‘Snow White’ RemakeThe dwarfs. The casting. The politics of the lead actress. And that wig! Is Disney’s live-action remake of the classic film doomed by culture war skirmishes? 020
Reposted by Norman Lear CenterDinah Lenney @dinahlenney.bsky.social · 27/02/2025"We enter into parallel worlds that give us the chance to explore “what if” scenarios: What would I do in that situation? How are my values similar or different?" @mojojohanna.bsky.social about the work she does @learcenter.bsky.social voyagela.com/interview/da...voyagela.comDaily Inspiration: Meet Johanna BlakleyToday we’d like to introduce you to Johanna Blakley Hi Johanna, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to spee... 031
Reposted by Norman Lear CenterHollywood, Health & Society @hollywdhealth.bsky.social · 14/03/2025Hi hi Marty, our @learcenter.bsky.social director! #SleeplessInHollywood 131
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 12/03/2025We're #SleeplessInHollywood! Check out @hollywdhealth.bsky.social's free panel on #SleepDisorders this Thursday, March 13th at Writers Guild of America West in collaboration with #ProjectSleep. They'll be providing complimentary free parking for attendees – just be sure to RVSP at buff.ly/zr5b0Ro 030
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 24/02/2025Meet Managing Director @mojojohanna.bsky.social. She studies how media, culture and tech shape entertainment and public opinion. She’s also finished a novel based on her work that explores how AI & entertainment could fundamentally change the world. Read her #VoyageLA profile: lear.center/4ifGOKj 020
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 29/01/2025Our @hollywdhealth.bsky.social program connected The Pitt’s producers and writers with Dr. Sylvia Owusu-Ansah, whose experience as a medical director helped shaped the show’s plot points. Check out The Pitt on HBO Max. www.pitt.edu/pittwire/fea...pitt.eduHow this Pitt professor lent her voice to a hit medical dramaThe School of Medicine’s Sylvia Owusu-Ansah shared her story with writers of HBO Max’s “The Pitt.” 063
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 19/12/2024"¡Pa’lante! builds on the existing advocacy of so many individuals and organizations. We want to build community, not competition," said researcher @sgiaccardi.bsky.social who is spearheading the initiative. www.thewrap.com/usc-norman-l...thewrap.comUSC Norman Lear Center Launches New Initiative to Research Latino Representation on TV | ExclusiveThe USC Norman Lear Center has launched a new research initiative diving into Latino representation in television. 010
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 19/12/2024Among its goals: to disaggregating data on the diverse ethnicities, racial identities, languages and cultures of Latino communities spanning more than 20 countries. Read more: lear.center/latinorepresentationlear.center¡Pa’lante!Read the Press Release The Wrap Lear Center Launches New Initiative to Research Representation on TV | Exclusive 110
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 19/12/2024We've launched a new research hub for organizations and individuals committed to improving #LatinoRepresentation across the entertainment industry, leveraging research and evaluation findings to pinpoint successes, failures and best practices for progress. Read more: lear.center/latinorepres... 121
Norman Lear Center @learcenter.bsky.social · 05/12/2024On the anniversary of Norman Lear's passing, we at the Norman Lear Center pause to honor the legacy of a visionary who transformed television. 063