John Krasinski is facing backlash from fans after it was announced on Thursday that his popular web series "Some Good News " was sold to ViacomCBS.- After the news broke, fans of the feel-good web series (which aims to bring happier news to people during the current pandemic) called out Krasinski for "selling out."
- "You got to love when what seemed like an act of goodwill during a pandemic can be auctioned off to the highest bidder," one user tweeted.
- Most fans took issue with the fact that Krasinski's series, which was previously free to watch on YouTube, will now be behind a paywall.
- Others were disappointed that the beloved actor wouldn't remain a host on the new version of the show, although he'll reportedly remain involved in some capacity.
Fans of John Krasinski are criticizing the actor for "selling out" after news broke Thursday that his popular web series "Some Good News" had been sold to ViacomCBS.
Krasinski produced and hosted the viral, feel-good web show, which aimed to bring happier news to people during the coronavirus pandemic. Past episodes of the show featured a reunion of the cast of "The Office" (which Krasinski also starred on) and the original Broadway cast of "Hamilton," as well as other light-hearted stories.
While the original iteration of "Some Good News" garnered plenty of fans, some of them weren't happy with the news of the deal, which will see Krasinski continue to executive produce, but not host, the CBS iteration of his show.
Others took issue with the fact that the new version of "Some Good News" will only be available on CBS All Access and affiliated channels — not for free on YouTube, as it previously had been.
—Brian K (@bktandem) May 21, 2020
—Dave Zatz (@davezatz) May 21, 2020
—Josh Pigford (@Shpigford) May 21, 2020
A few even questioned Krasinski's reasoning for selling off a show that was supposed to be a pick-me-up during a trying time to a major corporation, where fewer people will be able to access it.
—LW (@lindseyweber) May 21, 2020
—Honey, I Shrunk Nathan Hartman (@somestuffisaid) May 21, 2020
—Scott Redmond (@ScottPRedmond) May 21, 2020
—Jen (@darlinginmyway) May 21, 2020
—Capt Planet (@_CaptPlanet) May 21, 2020
—AquaManly (@crimsonjester) May 21, 2020
Krasinski, for his part, only expressed excitement for the deal in a statement obtained by the Hollywood Reporter on Thursday, although sources quoted in the article say the actor was hesitant to sell his show at first.
"Could not be more excited and proud to be partnering with CBS/Viacom to be able to bring 'Some Good News' to so many more people!" Krasinski said in the statement. "From the first episode, our goal was to create a news show dedicated entirely to good news. Never did I expect to be joining the ranks of such a historic news organization as CBS."
Representatives for Krasinski didn't immediately respond to Insider's requests for comment.
- Read more:
- John Krasinski and Steve Carell reunited on the 15th anniversary of 'The Office,' and reminisced about their favorite moments
- John Krasinski and Jenna Fischer discussed Jim and Pam's 'perfect' first kiss on the 'Office Ladies' podcast
- John Krasinski says he kept the iconic teapot that Jim gave to Pam on 'The Office'