Home / Technology / OpenAI Buys Tech Talk Show, Moves into Broadcasting
OpenAI Buys Tech Talk Show, Moves into Broadcasting
3 Apr
Summary
- OpenAI acquired the 11-person technology talk show TBPN.
- The deal for TBPN was valued in the low hundreds of millions of dollars.
- TBPN averages 70,000 viewers and was set to generate $30 million in revenue.
OpenAI has acquired TBPN, a technology-focused talk show with a significant presence in Silicon Valley, signaling a move into broadcasting. The acquisition involves an 11-person company and was reportedly valued in the low hundreds of millions of dollars.
TBPN, launched in October 2024, has garnered a dedicated following among tech founders and investors. Its co-hosts have interviewed prominent figures like Mark Zuckerberg and Sam Altman, establishing the show as a fixture at industry conferences.
Fidji Simo, who leads OpenAI's product business, highlighted TBPN as a key venue for discussions on AI and its impact on builders. This acquisition comes after Simo urged OpenAI staff to focus on core offerings like ChatGPT and business coding tools, differentiating TBPN from potential "side quests."
One source close to OpenAI dismissed concerns that the deal might distract engineers, emphasizing its role in marketing and communications. TBPN, which averages 70,000 viewers per episode, was projected to earn around $30 million in advertising revenue this year.
OpenAI stated that TBPN will maintain its base in Los Angeles and its editorial independence. Co-host Jordi Hays noted OpenAI's openness to feedback and commitment to responsible AI development. TBPN's team will support OpenAI's marketing and communications efforts while retaining editorial autonomy.
