Mailbag! Marvel’s Future, Johnny Depp’s Comeback, L.A.’s Recession, and Awkward Celeb Interactions.

Hollywood's economic stability remains a central concern, particularly regarding the potential impact of the Warner Bros.-Paramount merger on Los Angeles employment. While some fear an industrial decline similar to Detroit, the entertainment sector represents a relatively small percentage of the broader regional economy, which is bolstered by diverse industries like aerospace and tech. Meanwhile, Johnny Depp’s career prospects hinge on audience reception rather than executive strategy, as evidenced by positive test screenings for his latest project. Meghan and Harry’s struggle to find product-market fit stems from a misalignment between their personal brand and audience expectations. Additionally, Netflix is increasingly adopting theatrical windows for major releases to attract top-tier talent and secure awards, while Marvel is pivoting toward standalone television projects and a renewed focus on theatrical tentpoles like the X-Men to revitalize its brand.