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Welcome back to The Brief by Kuro House, your daily dose of sharp, insightful marketing and media updates. I’m glad you’re here, because today’s stories span the spectrum from advertising legends and C-suite shakeups to the evolving world of AI search, local sports podcasts, and even a bizarre crime involving a TV reporter. Let’s dive right in.
First up, we’re marking the loss of a true industry giant. Steve Hayden, the legendary advertising executive and one of the creative minds behind Apple’s iconic ‘1984’ Super Bowl ad, has passed away at 78. As Adweek reports, Hayden began his career as a copywriter at General Motors and rose to prominence at Chiat/Day in the 1980s. It was there, alongside Lee Clow and Brent Thomas, that he helped create the ‘1984’ ad—a cinematic spot that not only launched the Macintosh but also redefined how advertising could intersect with culture. Hayden’s career didn’t stop there. He later became chairman and CEO of BBDO West, where he helped retain the Apple account for over a decade. In 1994, he took on the role of vice chairman and chief creative officer at Ogilvy, overseeing the massive IBM global business consolidation and launching the transformative ‘e-business’ campaign. His creative leadership touched brands like American Express, Kodak, Motorola, and Dove, including the lasting “Real Beauty” campaign. But perhaps just as important as his campaigns was his role as a mentor and collaborator—remembered by colleagues as a gentle genius who inspired generations. Steve Hayden’s legacy isn’t just in the ads we remember, but in the people he encouraged to push boundaries. Our thoughts are with his family and everyone he inspired.
Next, a big shakeup in the AI search world. Adweek reports that Taz Patel, head of advertising and shopping at Perplexity, has left the company after just nine months. Patel, who previously co-founded the influencer marketing firm Captiv8, was brought in to build out Perplexity’s ads business. Perplexity, the fast-growing AI search startup valued at $18 billion, has been experimenting with sponsored ads and online shopping features, bringing on brands like TurboTax, Indeed, and Whole Foods for tests. Despite raising $100 million in July, the company’s ad business is still nascent—generating only about $20,000 in Q4 last year. Perplexity has also been aggressive in its marketing, spending nearly $10 million last year, including its first national TV campaign during the NBA Finals. However, the company faces legal challenges, including a cease-and-desist from The New York Times and a lawsuit from Japanese publishers over content usage. In response, Perplexity recently announced it will share 80% of revenue from its Comet Plus subscription product with publishers in an effort to secure licensing deals. As for Patel’s replacement, Perplexity hasn’t commented, but the company insists its work continues “unchanged.” It’s a reminder of how turbulent and high-stakes the AI search space has become.
Over at WPP, more executive changes are underway. Adweek reports that Andrew Scott, the chief operating officer and board member, will retire at the end of this year after 27 years with the company. Scott has been instrumental in shaping WPP’s operational structure, leading major acquisitions like Satalia and InfoSum, and orchestrating the sale of 60% of Kantar to Bain Capital and the sale of FGS Global to KKR. He’ll work with incoming CEO Cindy Rose as he transitions into a senior advisory role. This move comes just as outgoing CEO Mark Read, who’s been with WPP for three decades, also prepares to step down, staying on as an advisor through the end of the year. Cindy Rose, who was previously COO for global enterprise at Microsoft and has been a WPP board member since 2018, is stepping in as the next CEO. In her first address to staff, she expressed excitement and optimism for WPP’s next chapter. With major leadership changes and a legacy of bold deals, WPP is clearly positioning itself for a new era.
Shifting gears to local sports media, Sinclair’s AMP Media is teaming up with its Fox affiliate WLUK in Green Bay to launch a new podcast for Packers fans. According to Adweek, “THE TUNDRA: A Podcast on The Green Bay Packers” will feature former Packers fullback John Kuhn and journalist Matt Schneidman, delivering insider stories, game analysis, and unique perspectives. Annie Agar will also appear regularly as a guest. Pete Gianesini, director of Network Programming for Podcasts, notes that after success with recent college football shows, they’re eager to bring the same energy to Packers fans. Long-form episodes will drop weekly on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube with extended video versions. For local sports marketers and brands, this is a prime example of how regional content and athlete-driven media can build community and engagement.
Finally, a strange and troubling story out of Miami. Adweek reports that Michael Hudak, a reporter for WSVN, has been accused of stealing a $16,000 Rolex from his neighbor. The alleged theft took place while the neighbor was in Spain, and Hudak—who had a spare key for emergencies—allegedly entered the house and pawned the watch using his own Florida ID. He’s now facing felony charges of grand theft and burglary. The Miami ABC affiliate has suspended Hudak without pay. It’s a reminder that trust and reputation are everything in media—and how quickly both can be lost.
That’s all for today’s Brief. From the enduring impact of creative legends to the fast-moving world of AI, leadership transitions at the top, new opportunities in local sports content, and even the occasional cautionary tale, the marketing and media landscape never fails to surprise. Thanks for joining me—stay sharp, stay curious, and I’ll see you next time.
