AI lawsuits, Red Lobster’s comeback, Cannes controversies: The news that shaped 2025

As the curtain closes on 2025, the marketing and advertising landscape looks fundamentally different from what it did 12 months ago. It was a year where “impossible” comebacks became reality — led by the butter-soaked resurgence of Red Lobster — and where the “creative agency of record” model was tested by bold new partnerships such as JCPenney and Mischief.In this special year-end wrap-up, the Campaign US editorial team dives deep into the stories that moved the needle. From the legal battles over AI in Hollywood to the investigative ripples caused by the Cannes awards fallout, we examine the moments that sparked debate in the C-suite and the Slack channels alike. We also take a hard look at the evolving creator economy, the shifting value of industry awards and the resilience of the workforce amidst a year of significant layoffs. The sound bite"2026 is going to be a busy year."The articlesThe Social Skinny: Disney, Universal become first Hollywood giants to file AIFrom a popular CEO to viral seafood boils: The story behind Red Lobster’s biz comebackIn the post-bankruptcy chapter of its story, JCPenney names Mischief as its new creative agencyHavas and World Vision’s Lessons of Shame under scrutiny after Cannes Lions winOmnicom completes acquisition of IPG, creating world’s largest ad holding company‘Tracking Bad Bunny’ team hopes Grand Prix win inspires people to find Puerto RicoREVEALED: The most-awarded brands, campaigns and agencies across the worldZulu Alpha Kilo’s new promo, even hardened criminals draw the line at fake case studiesAnomaly’s parody-style ‘Greatest Hits’ ad to woo intern applicants is a bangerInside the creator economy's late payment crisisIn new Sweethearts campaign, till death do us part no longer holds weightCampaign US unveils new editorial team under leadership of Luz CoronaThe takeawaysAI's impact on the entertainment industry is significant.Red Lobster's comeback highlights the power of marketing on the bottom line.JCPenney's partnership with Mischief signifies a new direction in bold partnerships.Controversies surrounding awards are reshaping industry standards.Creators are increasingly taking control of their narratives.The importance of ethical practices in advertising is growing.Self-deprecating humor in ads resonates with audiences.2026 promises to be another transformative year for the industry. campaignlive.com Music - Take you Out by Lucid Tides, courtesy of Triple Scoop.  What we know about advertising, you should know about advertising. Start your 1-month FREE trial to Campaign US.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.