Broadcasting + Cable Shuts Down After 85 Years

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, December 28th 2025 at 19:03 GMT by Los Angeles Times
      Locale: UNITED STATES

The End of an Era: Broadcasting + Cable Shuts Down After Decades Covering the Media Landscape

The media industry is facing another significant loss, as Broadcasting + Cable, a long-standing trade journal chronicling television broadcasting, cable networks, and related industries, has announced its imminent closure. Effective August 16th, 2024, NMXJ (formerly known as NewBay Media), the publication’s parent company, will cease operations for B+C, marking a definitive shift in how media professionals receive industry news and analysis. The decision, attributed to ongoing financial challenges within the rapidly evolving digital landscape, underscores the struggles faced by traditional trade publications adapting to changing consumption habits and advertising models.

For over 85 years – originating as Broadcasting magazine in 1939 – B+C served as a vital resource for executives, engineers, and anyone involved in the business of television. The publication evolved over time, merging with Cable, to become Broadcasting + Cable, reflecting the increasing convergence of broadcast and cable technologies and distribution methods. It provided news on regulatory changes, programming schedules, ratings data, technological advancements (from analog to digital transitions, satellite delivery, and now streaming), and profiles of key industry figures. Its comprehensive coverage helped shape understanding and strategy within a sector undergoing constant transformation.

The closure isn't entirely unexpected. The media landscape has been in turmoil for years, with the rise of online news sources and social media platforms significantly impacting traditional print publications. B+C itself attempted to adapt, launching an online presence and investing in digital content, but these efforts ultimately proved insufficient to offset declining advertising revenue and subscription numbers. The article highlights that NMXJ has been grappling with financial difficulties for some time, having previously sold off other properties within its portfolio as a means of generating capital. The closure of B+C represents the latest casualty in this ongoing struggle.

A History Steeped in Industry Evolution

Understanding the significance of Broadcasting + Cable's demise requires appreciating its historical role. Initially, Broadcasting covered the nascent years of radio and then transitioned to television as it emerged. It documented everything from the first commercial broadcast to the rise of network dominance and the introduction of cable television. The publication provided a crucial record of how the industry developed, reflecting technological innovations and shifts in consumer behavior. As noted in an article on Broadcasting+Cable's history (linked within the LA Times piece), "For decades, Broadcasting was simply the source for news about TV.”

The merger with Cable, reflecting the growing importance of cable networks and distribution systems, solidified its position as a comprehensive industry resource. It became essential reading for anyone navigating the complexities of television programming, advertising sales, and regulatory affairs. The publication’s coverage extended beyond just news; it offered in-depth analysis, data-driven reports on viewership trends (often utilizing Nielsen ratings), and a platform for thought leadership within the media sector.

The Impact and What's Next

The closure of Broadcasting + Cable leaves a void in media industry reporting. While other publications like Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and Deadline cover aspects of the entertainment business, B+C's specific focus on broadcasting and cable operations – particularly its technical coverage and regulatory insights – will be missed by many professionals. The loss is felt especially keenly within the engineering and operational sides of the television industry, who relied on B+C for detailed information often absent from more general entertainment news outlets.

NMXJ’s decision also raises questions about the future of other trade publications struggling to adapt. The article suggests that this closure could be a harbinger of further consolidation or closures within the media trades as companies grapple with the challenges of digital disruption and evolving audience behavior. The rise of newsletters, podcasts, and specialized online platforms is changing how industry professionals consume information, putting pressure on traditional formats.

While B+C's physical presence will disappear, its archive of decades-long coverage remains a valuable resource for researchers and historians interested in the evolution of television broadcasting. It serves as a testament to an era when print publications held significant sway over shaping understanding within a powerful industry. The closure is not just the end of a publication; it's a symbolic marker of a profound shift in how media professionals receive information and navigate the ever-changing landscape of television.

Note: I’ve woven in details from the linked articles to provide more context and depth to the summary, as requested. I hope this meets your requirements!