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irl Media NEWS PODCAST
Tim Burton's “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” & Saudi Arabia esports - Eps. 47
Welcome to Episode 47 of the irl Media NEWS Podcast, I'm your host Chris Thompson, and today we discuss In today’s edition we discuss Tim Burton's “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” kills opening weekend, Saudi Arabia is making waves in the esports industry, Selena Gomez is a Billionaire, Ellen DeGeneres just flipped a megamansion for a $26 million profit, and becoming a Green Bay Packers shareholder.
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Chris Thompson
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherjthompson/
irl Media NEWS brings you the business behind the news, with a healthy dose of sarcasm.
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irl Media NEWS is completely self funded & privately owned, so we are beholden to no one except our own morals and ethics. The opinions expressed in our videos are exactly that - our opinions, and should be regarded (or disregarded depending on your perspective) as those of a small independent media organization bringing you original content in the fo...
Welcome to Episode 47 of the irl Media NEWS Podcast, I'm your host Chris Thompson, and today we discuss In today’s edition we discuss Tim Burton's “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” kills opening weekend, Saudi Arabia is making waves in the esports industry, Selena Gomez is a Billionaire, Ellen DeGeneres just flipped a megamansion for a $26 million profit, and becoming a Green Bay Packers shareholder.
Business
Tim Burton's long-awaited sequel “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” just had an amazing opening weekend raking in $110 million dollars at the box office during its first weekend, marking a huge comeback for the “Beetlejuice” franchise.
This impressive opening places it among the highest-grossing Tim Burton films to date, outpacing the initial expectations for its debut. The strong performance signals not only the enduring appeal of the beloved 1988 original but also the wide appeal of the sequel, which introduces new characters while retaining the quirky charm and spookiness that made the first film a cult favorite. With a marketing push targeting both nostalgic fans and younger audiences through its inclusion of stars like Jenna Ortega, the movie's opening weekend figures set the stage for a very successful box office run.
The plot of "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" picks up years after the events of the original film. Michael Keaton returns as the mischievous, chaotic ghost Beetlejuice, summoned once again by Lydia Deetz, played by every GenXer’s favorite Winona Ryder. This time, however, the focus expands to include Lydia’s daughter, Astrid, played by Generation Z actress Jenna Ortega. Lydia is now a single mother, and the film explores the dynamics between three generations of Deetz women: Lydia, her daughter, and her eccentric mother Delia, once again portrayed by Catherine O’Hara. Beetlejuice’s re-emergence disrupts the family, creating a blend of supernatural chaos and heartfelt family moments. New characters, including Beetlejuice’s ex-wife, played by Persephone, I mean Monica Bellucci, and a ghostly police officer, played by Willem Dafoe, who needs no further introduction. Tim Burton’s signature blend of eerie visuals, dark humor, and bizarre characters delivers a compelling mix that has drawn both old fans and newcomers.
To understand the cultural impact of "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice", it's crucial to look back at the original "Beetlejuice" from 1988. Directed by Tim Burton and starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Alec Baldwin, the film was a dark comedy that broke new ground with its quirky, gothic aesthetic and offbeat humor. The story followed a recently deceased couple who, after dying in a car accident, enlist Beetlejuice to help them scare away the new occupants of their home. Michael Keaton’s portrayal of the ghost with the most—complete with his manic energy and irreverent antics—became iconic, and the film was a box office success, earning $73 million globally on a $15 million budget. It also won an Academy Award for Best Makeup, thanks to its unique visual effects and elaborate, whimsical designs. The movie’s success cemented Tim Burton’s status as a director with a distinct style and vision, and "Beetlejuice" became a fan favorite, spawning a Broadway musical, animated series, and endless Halloween costumes.
Looking ahead, financial projections for "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" are incredibly optimistic. Given its strong opening weekend and the fact that it faces little competition in the coming weeks, analysts believe the film could easily surpass $350 million domestically by the end of its theatrical run. Internationally, it is expected to perform even better, with some estimates suggesting it could bring in over $700 million globally, for an estimated $1.1 billion dollars worldwide, at least by my estimate, for whatever that’s worth.
The film’s appeal spans multiple demographics: younger viewers are drawn in by Jenna Ortega’s rising star power following her success in the Netflix show "Wednesday", while older audiences are eager to revisit a beloved classic. With Halloween season on the horizon, the film’s spooky-but-fun vibe is expected to drive sustained ticket sales throughout October. If the film continues on this trajectory, it could become one of Tim Burton’s highest-grossing movies, potentially surpassing the $1 billion mark in global earnings.
The broader success of "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" could also lead to further expansion of the "Beetlejuice" universe. While no direct sequels or spin-offs have been announced yet, the film’s strong opening and anticipated financial success may encourage studios to explore additional projects within the franchise. Moreover, the renewed interest in "Beetlejuice" is likely to boost sales of the original film’s merchandise, its Broadway adaptation, and even home video and streaming sales of the 1988 movie. As the box office figures continue to climb, Tim Burton’s signature style remains as relevant and beloved as ever, proving that "Beetlejuice", even after more than three decades, still has plenty of life - or rather, afterlife - left in it.
Tech
Saudi Arabia is making big moves in the global esports scene, and recently hosted the first-ever Olympic Esports Competition. This event signals Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the world of competitive gaming.
A major part of Saudi Arabia’s strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil is to build up its reputation in entertainment, sports, and tourism. The Olympic Esports Competition is just the tip of the iceberg in what has become a massive investment into esports, with the country committing $38 billion to the video game industry through its Public Investment Fund (PIF). The inaugural Esports World Cup in Riyadh also showed the world that Saudi Arabia is serious about becoming a central hub for gaming, with fans and professionals alike attending and competing for some of the largest prize pools in the industry.
Saudi Arabia’s involvement in esports is the latest in its wider strategy of investing heavily in sports and entertainment as a way to shift its economic reliance from oil. Over the last decade, the kingdom has hosted and invested in major sporting events, including Formula 1 races, heavyweight boxing matches, and professional golf tournaments. Through its PIF, Saudi Arabia has spent billions to secure partnerships and buy stakes in various sports properties. The PIF’s portfolio includes a 75% ownership stake in the Premier League soccer team Newcastle United, acquired in a deal worth approximately $409 million in 2021. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has invested in LIV Golf, a controversial golf league, and spent over $2 billion to poach some of the sport’s top players from the PGA Tour.
Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a key player in the global sports market, utilizing its $700 billion PIF to buy influence in numerous leagues and sports franchises. The country’s foray into esports is a continuation of this pattern of financial domination in international sports. Critics often describe these investments as “sportswashing,” or an effort to enhance its global image and distract from ongoing human rights concerns. However, for struggling industries like esports and video games, Saudi Arabia’s deep pockets are hard to resist.
In the esports world, Saudi Arabia’s influence has become increasingly undeniable. Through Savvy Games Group, a company funded by the PIF, Saudi Arabia now holds a 40% market share of the global esports sector. Savvy Games has been central to Saudi Arabia’s gaming strategy, spending around $6 billion on acquiring esports companies and another $14 billion on stock investments in major video game publishers such as Electronic Arts, Take-Two Interactive, and Nintendo. This aggressive investment approach has made Saudi Arabia the largest outside investor in Nintendo, owning 8.3% of the company.
In 2022, Saudi Arabia's $925 billion sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), made a significant move by acquiring a 2% stake in Reliance Industries, a conglomerate that owns one of India’s largest esports companies, for $1 billion. That same year, PIF launched Savvy Games Group (SGG), with the goal of turning Saudi Arabia into a global gaming hub. SGG spearheaded a $1.5 billion investment to merge the esports platforms ESL and Faceit and also acquired 96% ownership of the Japanese game developer SNK. Additionally, PIF purchased minority stakes in Japan’s Capcom and Korea’s Nexon, each worth over $1 billion, and secured a $265 million stake in Chinese esports giant VSPO, backed by Tencent Holdings.
As of March 2023, PIF also holds stakes in major gaming companies, including a 9.2% stake in Electronic Arts (EA), 6.7% in Take-Two Interactive, 4.9% in Activision Blizzard, and 8.3% in Nintendo. While PIF consolidated most future gaming acquisitions through SGG, it remains uncertain whether this will be its sole approach to investing in the sector moving forward.
One of the kingdom’s most ambitious projects is the creation of Qiddiya, a massive entertainment city 30 miles west of Riyadh that will include a dedicated esports district. This project is designed to transform Saudi Arabia into a global hub for gaming, featuring state-of-the-art arenas and facilities to host international esports events. The country’s gaming scene has grown so large that the Esports World Cup in Riyadh featured a record-breaking $60 million prize pool, further cementing Saudi Arabia’s standing as a premier destination for competitive gaming.
In addition to high-profile tournaments, the country has inked partnerships with some of the largest gaming companies in the world. For example, Sony and Warner Bros. Discovery have both signed on to produce and stream content related to Saudi esports events, such as the Esports World Cup. In another notable move, Savvy Games Group acquired the Electronic Sports League (ESL), one of the most prestigious esports leagues globally, as well as Scopely, the gaming studio behind popular mobile games like "Monopoly Go". These acquisitions give Saudi Arabia not only significant control over esports competitions but also over the platforms and technologies that power them.
The scale of these investments is staggering, but they are part of a broader plan. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, himself an avid gamer, has laid out a vision for Saudi Arabia to create 250 gaming companies and 39,000 jobs in the sector by 2030. As part of this plan, the kingdom has recruited top talent from the U.S. and Asia and launched exchange programs to connect young Saudi game developers with their international counterparts.
Saudi Arabia’s future in esports looks incredibly bright, with its massive investments setting the stage for long-term dominance in the industry. The country is well on its way to becoming a global esports capital, as evidenced by the successful launch of the Esports World Cup and the upcoming Qiddiya gaming city. Through the PIF and Savvy Games Group, Saudi Arabia has made it clear that it intends to be a leader in competitive gaming, both as a host for prestigious events and as a financial powerhouse in the industry.
However, things aren’t all peachy in the land of Saudi Arabia. They’ve got some challenges ahead to be sure. The kingdom’s deep involvement in the esports world has faced criticism from gamers and organizations concerned about human rights issues in Saudi Arabia. Some have vowed to boycott events, while others grapple with the moral complexities of accepting Saudi money in a time of financial strain for the gaming industry. Still, avoiding Saudi influence entirely is becoming increasingly difficult, as many of the world’s largest gaming companies now have ties to the kingdom.
In the years to come, Saudi Arabia’s influence in esports is only expected to grow. With billions of dollars at its disposal and a commitment to building state-of-the-art facilities and fostering talent, the kingdom is poised to become an undeniable force in competitive gaming. While there may be controversies along the way, one thing is clear: Saudi Arabia’s presence in esports is here to stay.
Entertainment
Selena Gomez has officially joined the elite ranks of billionaires, with her net worth now estimated to be $1.3 billion dollars. Much of her newfound wealth stems from the overwhelming success of her cosmetics company, Rare Beauty, which has become a major player in the beauty industry. Selena Gomez’s journey from Disney Channel star to global businesswoman is remarkable, and her success in diversifying her career into entrepreneurship is what has propelled her into billionaire status.
Selena Gomez’s rise to fame began on Disney Channel, where she starred in Wizards of Waverly Place from 2007 to 2012, earning approximately $3 million for her role. While acting was her early claim to fame, her musical career also took off, allowing her to reach a broader audience. By 2017, she had sold over 22 million singles worldwide. However, Selena Gomez has strategically distanced herself from relying solely on music as a primary source of income. Despite this, her career in the entertainment industry has still brought in millions over the years. For example, her two-year deal with Puma in 2017 earned her $30 million.
In addition to acting and music, Selena Gomez has successfully leveraged her massive social media following, with 430 million Instagram followers, to land lucrative brand deals. In 2016, she signed a $10 million deal with Coach, and shortly after, she partnered with Louis Vuitton for another $10 million .
The most significant factor in Selena Gomez’s leap into billionaire territory is Rare Beauty. Launched in 2020, the makeup brand quickly gained popularity for its inclusive products, with the company now valued at over $1 billion. Rare Beauty’s success has helped Selena Gomez amass most of her current wealth. The company’s mission of promoting self-acceptance and mental health has resonated with fans and consumers, allowing it to stand out in the highly competitive beauty industry.
Rare Beauty’s popularity has grown rapidly, largely thanks to Selena Gomez’s influence and her keen business strategy. In 2023 alone, the brand generated nearly $400 million in sales. With such a dominant presence in the market, it’s clear that Rare Beauty has been instrumental in catapulting Selena Gomez to billionaire status.
Selena Gomez isn’t the first celebrity to achieve success by transitioning into the beauty and fashion industries. This trend has been growing over the past decade, with many high-profile figures using their fame to launch highly successful brands. Some of the biggest names in fashion and beauty have built multi-million and even billion-dollar empires by leveraging their popularity and influence.
One of the most prominent examples is Rihanna, whose Fenty Beauty brand launched in 2017. Rihanna’s goal was to create a beauty line that catered to all skin tones, which resonated with consumers. By 2022, Fenty Beauty was valued at $2.8 billion, with Rihanna herself reaching billionaire status thanks largely to her ownership stake. Rihanna's business portfolio also includes Savage X Fenty, a lingerie line that is reportedly valued at over $3 billion, further solidifying her presence as a force in the fashion and beauty world.
Similarly, Kim Kardashian has become a powerhouse in the beauty and fashion industries. Her shapewear brand Skims, launched in 2019, quickly became a global sensation. The company was valued at $4 billion in 2023, highlighting the brand’s rapid growth. Kim Kardashian’s beauty brand KKW Beauty, launched in 2017, provides another huge revenue stream. In 2020 she sold a 20% stake to Coty for $200 million dollars, which gave the company a $1 billion dollar valuation. Kim Kardashian’s approach, much like Selena Gomez and Rihanna, has been to capitalize on her enormous social media following while creating products that resonate with her audience.
Kylie Jenner is another celebrity, and baby sister to Kim Kardashian, whose beauty brand has made a significant financial impact. Kylie Jenner launched Kylie Cosmetics in 2015, and within just a few years, it became a multi-million-dollar empire. In 2019, Kylie Jenner sold 51% of Kylie Cosmetics to Coty for $600 million, which valued the company at $1.2 billion. Though her billionaire status has been debated due to some discrepancies in reported earnings, Kylie Jenner remains one of the youngest and most successful self-made beauty entrepreneurs.
Jessica Alba also made waves in the consumer products world with The Honest Company, a clean beauty and household goods brand. Launched in 2011, the company focused on non-toxic, eco-friendly products. In 2021, The Honest Company went public, and while its market valuation has fluctuated, it was initially valued at $1.44 billion. Jessica Alba’s stake in the company has significantly contributed to her estimated $200 million net worth.
Even stars like Lady Gaga and Pharrell Williams have ventured into the beauty space. Lady Gaga’s Haus Laboratories, launched in 2019, has made waves for its cruelty-free, vegan beauty products. In 2020 Pharrell Williams launched Humanrace, a skincare line focused on inclusivity and sustainability. Though these brands have yet to hit billion-dollar valuations, they demonstrate how the beauty industry has become a lucrative avenue for celebrities beyond their primary careers.
These celebrity-driven brands thrive on the combination of strong personal branding, massive fan followings, and products that resonate with consumers on a deeper level. Whether it’s inclusivity, sustainability, or quality, stars like Selena Gomez, Rihanna, and Kim Kardashian have mastered the art of combining social influence with entrepreneurial ventures. In Selena Gomez's case, Rare Beauty's focus on inclusivity and mental health has been key to its success, proving that a strong mission can drive financial returns.
Selena Gomez’s transition from entertainment to business mogul with Rare Beauty marks a pivotal moment in her career. The brand’s success has not only made her one of the most successful celebrities in the beauty industry but has also set her up for a continued legacy of wealth and influence. Rare Beauty’s inclusive ethos and Gomez’s focus on promoting mental health have resonated deeply with consumers, positioning the brand for even greater success in the future.
Selena Gomez’s entry into the billionaire club is a testament to her ability to diversify her income streams and create a lasting impact beyond the entertainment industry. As she continues to grow her empire, it’s clear that her business acumen and cultural influence will keep her at the forefront of both the beauty and entertainment worlds.
Real Estate
Ellen DeGeneres has once again showcased her prowess in the real estate world by selling her cliffside Los Angeles megamansion for a whopping $96 million. The comedian and television host, along with her wife, Portia de Rossi, initially purchased the sprawling estate in 2022 for a combined total of nearly $70 million. The property was bought in two parts: the main Tuscan-style mansion for $41.7 million and an adjacent plot of land for $28.2 million. With this sale, Ellen DeGeneres has made a remarkable $26 million profit, adding to her impressive track record of lucrative property deals.
The sprawling mansion, perched atop the Los Angeles cliffs, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and comes with all the luxurious amenities you’d expect from a celebrity-owned home. The Tuscan-style estate features a blend of old-world charm with modern touches, including multiple living spaces, a chef’s kitchen, a vast master suite, and an expansive outdoor area complete with an infinity pool. This isn’t just any mansion; it’s an architectural masterpiece designed for ultimate privacy and comfort. Ellen and Portia’s ability to spot properties with high market potential and flip them for significant profit has become a hallmark of their real estate ventures.
Before Ellen DeGeneres became a mogul in the real estate world, she first made her mark as a stand-up comedian in the 1980s. Known for her observational humor and witty take on everyday life, Ellen DeGeneres quickly gained a loyal following. Her comedic talent eventually led to her starring role in the sitcom “Ellen” from 1994 to 1998, which was groundbreaking for several reasons—most notably for its 1997 episode in which Ellen DeGeneres' character came out as gay, making her one of the first openly LGBTQ characters on primetime television.
Her big break in daytime TV came in 2003 with "The Ellen DeGeneres Show", a talk show that ran for 19 successful seasons. The show was beloved for its lighthearted interviews, dance segments, and philanthropic moments, becoming a cornerstone of American daytime television. Over the years, Ellen interviewed countless celebrities and public figures, becoming an influential voice in the entertainment industry. The success of her show earned her multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most successful hosts. Her decision to end the show in 2022 marked the end of an era but allowed her more time to focus on her other business ventures, including her passion for real estate.
Ellen DeGeneres' success on television, combined with her real estate ventures, has contributed to an estimated net worth of $370 million. Beyond her properties, Ellen DeGeneres also owns several other high-profile assets, including stakes in media and production companies. Her brand, ED Ellen DeGeneres, has expanded into various industries, from home décor to pet products, further diversifying her income streams.
As a couple, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi have become known for their keen real estate investments. Together, they’ve bought and sold multiple high-end properties, mostly in California. With a penchant for buying unique, luxurious estates and flipping them for substantial profits, Ellen DeGeneres has become one of the most successful celebrity real estate moguls in Hollywood.
Over the years, Ellen DeGeneres has owned an array of luxurious homes, each more spectacular than the last. One of her most famous properties is her Montecito mansion, which she sold in February of 2024 for $32 million. This Tuscan-style villa sits on nearly 17 acres of land and features total of five bedrooms and eight bathrooms across the main and guest house, with views of both the ocean and the mountains. The property includes a pool, a tennis court, and a 900-square-foot guest house, making it an idyllic retreat.
Another notable property in Ellen’s portfolio is a ranch in Montecito, purchased for $6.7 million, which she renovated to include modern amenities while maintaining its rustic charm. This property features a barn-turned-guesthouse, multiple outdoor seating areas, and even a private lake. Ellen DeGeneres also once owned a Beverly Hills home that she sold for $35 million, adding to her impressive record of flipping properties for profit.
In addition to these, Ellen and Portia have owned homes in Santa Barbara, Carpinteria, and other sought-after locations. Their Carpinteria beach house, which they bought for $18.6 million, was another standout in their portfolio. The house featured five bedrooms, a private beach access, and a stunning outdoor area for entertaining.
The sale of Ellen’s cliffside L.A. megamansion is just the latest in a series of real estate wins for the celebrity. With a sale price of $96 million, Ellen DeGeneres is walking away with a $26 million profit in just over a year—a testament to her keen eye for the real estate market. This flip adds to her already impressive resume as a property investor, and it’s clear that Ellen’s foray into real estate is far more than a hobby; it’s a highly profitable venture.
As Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi continue to buy and sell homes, each new property seems to top the last in terms of luxury, location, and profit margins. While Ellen DeGeneres may be retired from daytime television, her real estate game is stronger than ever, and this $96 million sale proves that she’s still at the top of her game, both in entertainment and real estate.
Sports
The Green Bay Packers stand as the only NFL team owned by its fans, a unique model in professional sports. Unlike other franchises that are privately owned by individuals or partnerships, the Green Bay Packers operate as a publicly owned nonprofit, and this structure has been in place since the team’s earliest days.
Over time, the Green Bay Packers have held stock sales, allowing fans to purchase ownership stakes in the team. While these shares do not appreciate in value or pay dividends, they grant holders the pride of ownership and the ability to attend shareholder meetings.
The Green Bay Packers first sold stock in 1923 to ensure the team's survival, selling 1,000 shares at $5 each. This move helped the organization remain financially stable and set the foundation for the unique ownership structure we see today. Since then, the Packers have held multiple stock offerings, each time allowing new generations of fans to become "owners."
1923: As the Packers struggled financially, they launched their first stock sale, offering shares at $5 each to help cover operating expenses.
1950: In another time of need, the Packers offered more stock, raising $118,000, which helped them fund the construction of a new stadium.
1997-98: The Packers launched a third stock sale, with shares priced at $200 each. This sale brought in $24 million to fund renovations to Lambeau Field.
2011: To support another round of stadium improvements, the team sold additional shares at $250 each, raising $67 million.
2021: Most recently, the Packers offered shares at $300 each, allowing more fans to join the ownership ranks. This sale raised $65 million for further upgrades to Lambeau Field.
While these shares do not carry traditional financial benefits, Green Bay Packers stockholders can attend annual meetings and vote on various team matters, fostering a deep connection between the franchise and its fans.
In contrast to the Green Bay Packers' fan-based ownership model, the NFL recently made a significant policy shift. In 2024, the league approved private equity firms to purchase up to a 10% equity stake in NFL teams. This marks a significant departure from the traditional ownership rules, which typically restricted ownership to individuals or small groups. The decision to allow private equity firms to invest introduces a new financial dynamic to the league, potentially boosting franchise valuations and allowing owners to cash out part of their stakes.
Private equity investments could bring substantial capital to NFL teams, making them more competitive financially. However, it also shifts ownership dynamics, with teams potentially becoming more corporate in their management. This contrasts sharply with the Green Bay Packers’ fan-based structure, which remains grounded in community and tradition rather than profit-driven motives.
The Green Bay Packers' ownership model is truly one-of-a-kind. While most NFL teams are owned by wealthy individuals or corporate groups, the Green Bay Packers' public ownership sets them apart. With over 537,000 shareholders, the Green Bay Packers are owned by their fans, who hold over 5 million shares. These stockholders do not profit financially from their shares, but they gain the satisfaction of being part of the team’s legacy.
This structure provides stability for the Green Bay Packers, ensuring they will remain in Green Bay indefinitely. There is no majority owner who could potentially move the team, as we’ve seen with other franchises in the past. Instead, the Green Bay Packers' loyalty to their community is enshrined in their ownership model.
As the only publicly owned team in the NFL, the Green Bay Packers are a shining example of how fan engagement can transcend traditional team ownership. With their long history of stock sales and dedicated fanbase, they will continue to stand out as a unique force in the league, no matter how much private equity reshapes the rest of the NFL.
While the NFL is moving toward private equity involvement, the Green Bay Packers’ fan-based ownership model remains unmatched. This connection between the team and its fans ensures that the Packers are not just a franchise—they are a community institution, owned by those who love them the most.