Likewise and Watchlist Inc. Join Forces to Revolutionize Entertainment Discovery via Newsletters

Likewise Announces Acquisition by Watchlist Inc.

SEATTLE and NEW YORK, June 4, 2025
In a significant development in the world of digital media, Likewise, known for spearheading the largest entertainment-focused newsletter brand, has officially announced its acquisition by Watchlist Inc. This strategic move is poised to enhance the future of personalized entertainment discovery through newsletters.

Watchlist Inc., a new holding company aimed at scaling promising media enterprises, will now feature Likewise at its helm. With a remarkable track record of over 8.4 million subscribers across its main offerings—Watchlist, Booklist, and Podlist—Likewise is at the forefront of a newsletter-first revolution, transforming how audiences decide what to read, watch, and listen to.

Josh Epstein, a seasoned media executive with a rich background in technology, will step in as the new CEO of Likewise following the acquisition. Epstein, who was previously Likewise's Chief Business Officer, has played a key role in shaping the company's newsletter monetization strategy and is set to lead the company into its next stage of growth.

The acquisition has garnered the support of several high-profile investors and advisors from the tech and media sectors. These include industry veterans with experience from well-known companies like AppNexus, Comcast, Goldman Sachs, and Google, adding a wealth of knowledge and capital to Likewise’s future initiatives. Notably, Gates Frontier has opted to retain a minority interest in the company as part of this transaction.

In Epstein's words, “Newsletters serve as the new direct-to-consumer portal to media.” With this acquisition, Likewise aims to leverage its strengths: delivering highly personalized entertainment recommendations through a mix of bold editorial content and data-driven insights.

The growth statistics for Likewise are impressive, reflecting a year-over-year increase of over 300% in its newsletter audience. The platform has doubled its revenue for the past two consecutive years, solidifying its place as a leader in entertainment recommendations. Furthermore, its flagship newsletters—Watchlist, Booklist, and Podlist—combine striking editorial quality, AI-generated personalization, and exclusive user insights, expanding its reach to varied entertainment sectors.

With innovative tools like Pix already in the mix, Likewise has established itself as a must-visit newsletter platform for curating entertainment content. Epstein believes that this acquisition will foster significant innovations, allowing consumers to discover and connect with content tailored to their preferences.

Bob Bakish, the former CEO of Paramount, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “I look forward to witnessing the next chapter of personalized products tailored for consumers and partners, which Josh and his team are strategizing.” Bakish's comments emphasize the excitement surrounding what this partnership may offer to media consumers in the near future.

About Watchlist Inc.

Founded in 2025, Watchlist Inc. is committed to nurturing and managing some of the most promising digital media investments. With a robust foundation of industry expertise and a growing ecosystem of entertainment brands, the company is strategically positioned to define the media landscape of tomorrow.

About Likewise

Likewise stands as the largest entertainment newsletter brand in the U.S., proudly supporting over 8 million subscribers to discover insightful recommendations regarding what to read, watch, and listen to next. Merging editorial strength, innovative data usage, and AI-powered personalization, Likewise is reshaping audience engagement in entertainment.

For more information, visit Likewise.com.

Media Contact:
Aviva Downing
Head of Marketing & Communications
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 240-460-7981