Netflix
Netflix chose to do its event virtually this year without talent, releasing some new footage for series such as a trailer for 3 Body Problem and breaking out its ad-tier info for the first time, claiming the ad-supported plan has around 5 million monthly active users. Of course, the virtual presentation led to a somewhat tepid reaction online. Overall, it was a presentation that could’ve drastically benefitted from a little sword fighting. But again, what presentation wouldn’t? — B.B.
YouTube
YouTube, a non-traditional TV player, used its second year holding its Brandcast spectacular during upfront week to bring out all the glitzy stops. YouTube had pizza-shaped cookies from YouTuber Airrack (a pizza enthusiast), offered advertisers a special YouTube TV deal for their own personal accounts and serenaded attendees with YouTube star Jacob Collier. Doja Cat was also on hand to perform “Need to Know,” “Juicy” and “Say So.” In another touch of TV magic, YouTube also offered longer ad spots on its YouTube Select inventory airing on CTV. — Catherine Perloff
