Hollywood Reporter: While HBO executives are staying mum, multiple sources say that HBO is in talks for a major multipart deal with ESPN cast-off Bill Simmons, the biggest media personality in sports. Though Simmons is said to have several suitors, insiders say conversations at HBO have focused on a TV show — something Simmons is believed to want — along with heavy digital extensions that make the prolific personality tailor-made for the HBO Now era. “This is the most exciting inflection point in the history of our company,” says CEO Richard Plepler. “Our opportunities to reach new consumers have never been more expansive, and the array of talent that wants to work with us has never been greater.”