‘Michael’ Continues Record Breaking Box Office Run

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, “Michael” chronicles the rise of Michael Jackson from his childhood years with the Jackson 5 through the height of his solo superstardom during the Bad era. The movie stars Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, in his feature film debut, alongside a cast that includes Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, and Laura Harrier.

The biopic’s latest milestone adds another chapter to an impressive theatrical performance that has consistently exceeded expectations since its April release. Distributed by Lionsgate in North America and Universal internationally, the picture has become the highest-grossing title in Lionsgate’s history while also ranking among the biggest titles of 2026 overall.

The box office success has arrived despite a mixed critical reception. While reviewers were divided over the film’s approach to Jackson’s life and legacy, many singled out Jaafar Jackson’s performance for praise. Audiences proved far more enthusiastic, helping propel the movie through a series of strong weekends and making it one of the year’s most talked about releases.

Its commercial momentum may not be finished yet. With a Japanese rollout now underway, industry observers will be watching to see whether the picture can cross the $1 billion mark worldwide.

The film focuses primarily on Jackson’s ascent to global fame, tracing key moments from his early years with Motown through the record breaking success of albums such as Thriller and Bad. A sequel is already in development, potentially allowing filmmakers to continue the story beyond the period covered in the current release.

Negri spent nearly a century performing, teaching, and championing music, building a legacy that extended from television screens to concert stages and university classrooms. While many viewers recognized him from his appearances alongside Fred Rogers, he was also widely respected within the jazz world as a performer, mentor, and advocate for music education.

A Life Dedicated to Music On and Off Screen

Born in Pittsburgh on June 10, 1926, Negri showed an early aptitude for performance, appearing on radio as a child and beginning his professional career while still young. By the 1940s, he was touring nationally with big bands before interrupting his musical pursuits to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II. After returning home, he immersed himself in Pittsburgh’s thriving music scene and studied composition at what is now Carnegie Mellon University.

His television career developed alongside his work as a musician. During the 1950s and 1960s, Negri became a familiar figure on local Pittsburgh broadcasts, eventually serving as music director for WTAE. It was through that work that he crossed paths with Fred Rogers, a connection that would lead to one of the most recognizable roles of his career.

Beginning in 1968, Negri appeared on “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” as both Handyman Negri and the owner of Negri’s Music Shop. His calm demeanor and love of music made him a natural fit for the program, where he introduced young viewers to instruments, creativity, and the joy of making music. He remained associated with the series until production of new episodes ended in 2000.

Away from television, Negri spent decades shaping future generations of musicians. He taught jazz guitar for nearly half a century at the University of Pittsburgh and also held long teaching tenures at Duquesne University and Carnegie Mellon University. His work helped establish jazz guitar as a serious academic discipline, and many former students credited him not only for his technical instruction but also for his generosity and encouragement.

Negri’s career included collaborations with a wide range of artists, including Tony Bennett, Johnny Mathis, Andy Williams, Yo-Yo Ma, Michael Feinstein, and Wynton and Ellis Marsalis. Whether performing in intimate jazz settings, appearing with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, or teaching aspiring musicians, he remained a constant presence in Pittsburgh’s cultural life.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Joan Negri, their three daughters, and three granddaughters.

Jason Momoa Says Kurt Russell Is the Reason He Won’t Play Snake Plissken

When asked about the prospect,Momoa sounded unconvinced not only about taking the role himself, but about the remake altogether.

“Do we need a remake? I even like Escape from L.A.,” Momoa said before turning to the subject of Russell’s portrayal. While he spoke warmly about Snyder, he admitted that his admiration for the original star makes it difficult for him to imagine stepping into the character’s shoes. “I love Kurt Russell,” Momoa said. “I don’t want to. I would never want to step into that.”

The actor went on to explain that the hesitation comes from his affection for both the film and the performer who defined Snake Plissken for generations of moviegoers. He acknowledged that the role would ordinarily be the kind of opportunity many actors would jump at, but added that his respect for Russell outweighs the appeal. “It’s one of those things where you’re like, oh my God, I would love to do that. But at the same time, I’m like, I love him too much,” Momoa said, later wishing “good luck” to whichever actor eventually lands the role.

Momoa also drew a distinction between “Escape from New York” and another famous remake he previously headlined, “Conan the Barbarian.” He explained that he did not grow up attached to the Arnold Schwarzenegger films and instead came to the character through the original Robert E. Howard stories.

“I didn’t grow up with Conan,” he said. “I grew up reading Robert E. Howard. I didn’t grow up with Arnold’s thing. My mom raised me on, like, Gone with the Wind, and Barefoot in the Park, and Hitchcock movies.” For Momoa, the lack of personal attachment made “Conan” a very different proposition from revisiting one of Russell’s most iconic performances.

The latest version of “Escape from New York” represents only the newest chapter in a development journey that stretches back nearly two decades. Various filmmakers, including Len Wiseman, Brett Ratner, Breck Eisner, Robert Rodriguez, and the filmmaking collective Radio Silence, were linked to the property at different points.

Now, with Snyder officially attached and development moving forward once again, attention has returned to the same question that has followed the project since its announcement: who is willing to take on a role that many actors view as nearly impossible to replace?

For now, Momoa has removed himself from that conversation. The actor is already heading into one of the busiest periods of his career, with “Supergirl” arriving this month and “Dune: Part Three” scheduled for release later this year.

Elizabeth Olsen Preparing for a New Role Off Screen

The 37-year-old actress was seen having lunch at All Time Restaurant in Los Angeles this week. During the outing, Olsen wore a loose white button down shirt and was photographed cradling her stomach, fueling confirmation that she and Arnett are preparing to welcome their first baby together.

While Olsen has largely kept her personal life out of the spotlight, her relationship with Arnett has unfolded quietly over the past several years. The pair became engaged in 2019 after dating for three years and later revealed that they had married in a private ceremony. Since then, they have occasionally collaborated professionally, including co-authoring the children’s books “Hattie Harmony: Worry Detective” and “Hattie Harmony: Opening Night.”

The pregnancy marks a significant milestone for Olsen, whose career has remained busy in recent years. After gaining critical acclaim for her breakout performance in “Martha Marcy May Marlene,” she became a global star through Marvel projects such as “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “WandaVision,” and “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” Her work on “WandaVision” earned nominations for both a Primetime Emmy Award and a Golden Globe.

Beyond her Marvel success, Olsen has continued to balance major studio productions with acclaimed dramatic roles. Recent projects have included “Love & Death,” “His Three Daughters,” and “The Assessment.”

For now, however, attention has shifted away from Hollywood and toward a personal milestone. As Olsen and Arnett prepare to expand their family, the actress appears ready to embrace an entirely new role, one that arrives far from any superhero storyline.

A Lasting Connection to Disney History

Although Kerry built a career across multiple areas of entertainment, she remained most closely associated with Disney’s 1953 animated classic “Peter Pan.” During production, animators used her pantomime performances as a visual guide for Tinker Bell, whose expressive personality relied entirely on movement rather than dialogue. Kerry spent months performing scenes on a soundstage, helping artists translate human gestures into one of the studio’s most recognizable animated figures.

Her contribution extended beyond the fairy herself. Kerry also provided reference performances and vocal work for the red-haired mermaid featured in the film’s Neverland lagoon sequence. Over the decades, she became a beloved figure among Disney fans, frequently attending conventions and sharing stories from the production of the animated classic.

Long before “Peter Pan”, Kerry entered show-business as a child performer under her birth name, Peggy Lynch. She appeared in films during the 1930s and later worked as a camera double for Elizabeth Taylor on “National Velvet.” Her screen career expanded through film and television roles, including appearances on “The Lone Ranger” and “The Andy Griffith Show.”

Kerry also established herself as a prolific voice performer. She contributed dozens of character voices to children’s programming and animation, including work on “Clutch Cargo,” “Space Angel,” and “The New Three Stooges.” Beyond acting, she spent years in radio broadcasting, community outreach, public speaking, and animation advocacy, serving on the board of ASIFA Hollywood and remaining active in the entertainment community well into her later years.

In recent years, Kerry continued celebrating her Disney legacy. Her autobiography, “Tinker Bell Talks: Tales of a Pixie Dusted Life,” offered a personal look back at her decades in entertainment, while several honors recognized her role in animation history. In 2023, her original Tinker Bell ballet slippers were displayed at the Walt Disney Family Museum as part of celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Disney.

Her family’s announcement paid tribute to that connection, encouraging admirers to look toward the “Second Star to the Right” and remember the woman who helped bring a timeless character to life.

Sepideh Moafi Knows When ‘The Pitt’ Returns, But Not What Happens Next

Moafi was candid about how much information she has received ahead of filming. “I don’t know anything yet,” she said, explaining that production is scheduled to begin in about a week. While plot specifics remain a mystery, she did confirm one notable detail about her involvement. “I know that I’m not going to be part of the first episode. I think I can share that.”

The actress also shed light on how Season 3 will be structured. According to Moafi, viewers should expect characters to arrive at different points in the story rather than all appearing from the outset. “It’s going to be like staggered entrances,” she said.

Unlike the story details, however, the show’s timeline appears to be something she has already been told. “I think it’s around Thanksgiving, four months from Season 2,” Moafi revealed. She also hinted that the series will maintain its trademark intensity, adding, “I know that we’re stepping into another wild day.”

That setting could be particularly significant for Dr. Al-Hashimi. The attending physician made a major impact during Season 2 after arriving at Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center as Dr. Robby’s temporary replacement. Her push for modernization, confidence in emerging technology, and willingness to challenge long-standing practices frequently placed her at the center of the drama.

By the season’s end, however, her professional future had been thrown into question after the return of her seizure disorder led to a confrontation over patient safety and her ability to continue working.

For now, Moafi is waiting for answers alongside the audience. “I’m as excited and enthusiastic as everyone else is to find out what’s going to happen next,” she said. With filming about to begin and Season 3 already positioned several months beyond the events of last season, fans may not have to wait much longer to learn where Dr. Al-Hashimi’s journey goes from here.

Peter Sarsgaard Joins The Last of Us Season 3 in an Original Role

Sarsgaard’s casting marks another notable departure from the source material. While “The Last of Us” remains closely tied to Naughty Dog’s video game franchise, Amon does not appear in the games. His introduction suggests the HBO adaptation will continue expanding elements of its world, particularly as it spends more time with the Seraphites, the religious faction at the center of the conflict in Seattle.

The casting news arrives during a planned production pause. Filming on Season 3, which began earlier this year in British Columbia, is currently on a temporary hiatus expected to last about a month. The break coincides with the FIFA World Cup, with Vancouver serving as one of the tournament’s host cities and facing the logistical challenges that accompany an event of that scale.

When production resumes, cameras are expected to continue rolling through the end of 2026. HBO has not announced a premiere date, though the third season is currently targeting a 2027 debut. While executives have not formally confirmed the show’s endgame, Season 3 is widely viewed as a potential final chapter for the adaptation.

Created by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, “The Last of Us” became one of HBO’s biggest recent successes after premiering in 2023. The series began by following Joel, played by Pedro Pascal, and Ellie, portrayed by Bella Ramsey, across a post apocalyptic America devastated by a fungal outbreak. As the story evolved, it shifted toward the events of “The Last of Us Part II” and introduced Abby, played by Kaitlyn Dever, whose storyline is expected to take center stage in the third season.

For Sarsgaard, the role adds another high profile television credit to a career that has spanned more than three decades. The actor earned Emmy nominations for both “Dopesick” and “Presumed Innocent” and recently won the Volpi Cup for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival for his performance in “Memory.”

A Career That Spanned Nearly Seven Decades

Born in Bradford, England, in 1937, Hockney emerged as part of a new generation of artists that helped transform British art in the 1960s. After studying at the Royal College of Art in London, he quickly established himself as one of the movement’s most distinctive talents, combining bold color, personal storytelling, and a willingness to challenge artistic conventions.

His reputation grew internationally after relocating to Los Angeles in the mid 1960s, where California’s light, architecture, and swimming pool culture inspired some of his most recognizable works. Paintings such as The Splash and Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) became enduring symbols of his career, blending striking visual simplicity with emotional complexity.

An Artist Constantly Reinventing Himself

Although often associated with painting, Hockney refused to be defined by a single medium. Throughout his career he explored printmaking, photography, stage design, video art, and digital technology, frequently adopting new tools long before they became common in the art world.

His experiments with photographic collages in the 1980s challenged traditional perspectives, while later projects created on iPhones and iPads demonstrated an eagerness to embrace technological change well into his later years. Whether working with oil paint, cameras, or digital screens, Hockney remained focused on the same question that fascinated him throughout his life: how people see and experience the world.

Record Breaking Success and Global Recognition

Hockney’s influence extended far beyond galleries and museums. In 2018, his 1972 masterpiece Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) sold for more than $90 million at auction, briefly making it the most expensive artwork ever sold by a living artist.

His works entered the collections of many of the world’s leading institutions, including the Tate, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Centre Pompidou. Major retrospectives drew hundreds of thousands of visitors, cementing his status as one of the most celebrated artists of his generation.

A Lasting Legacy

Even in his eighties, Hockney continued producing new work and mounting ambitious exhibitions. His career was marked not only by remarkable longevity but by a restless curiosity that kept pushing his art in new directions.

From the vibrant pool paintings that made him famous to the digital landscapes and portraits of his later years, Hockney built a body of work that connected multiple eras of modern art. His death closes a chapter in British cultural history, but his influence will remain visible in museums, galleries, and generations of artists inspired by his example.

What We Know About Netflix’s Planned ‘Hit Man’ Series

While Netflix has not revealed plot specifics, the proposed title is expected to draw from the central concept that powered the picture. The story revolves around an ordinary man who adopts a range of carefully crafted identities while posing as a contract killer in undercover operations. The setup offers room for an episodic format, with new cases, disguises, and moral complications potentially driving the narrative from week to week.

The original film was directed by Richard Linklater, who also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Glen Powell. Powell took the lead role as Gary Johnson, a quiet college professor who assists law enforcement by impersonating a hitman. What begins as a police operation gradually becomes far more complicated when Gary develops feelings for a woman who seeks his services in an attempt to escape an abusive marriage.

“Hit Man” drew inspiration from the real-life story of Gary Johnson, a college professor who worked with Houston police during undercover sting operations in the late twentieth century. The factual basis came from a 2001 magazine article by journalist Skip Hollandsworth, though much of the movie’s romantic and criminal intrigue was fictionalized for the screen.

The picture assembled a cast that included Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, Retta, and Sanjay Rao alongside Powell. Following its premiere at the 80th Venice International Film Festival in September 2023, the film continued its festival run before arriving in theaters in May 2024 and debuting on Netflix shortly afterward. The release earned widespread praise from critics and further elevated Powell’s profile as both an actor and screenwriter.

Alongside the renewal, creator and showrunner Katie Dippold has signed a multi-year overall deal with the streamer, ensuring her continued involvement in both the hit and future projects.

A Vote of Confidence Before the Finale

The series blends horror and comedy in a story centered on Tom Loftis, played by Matthew Rhys, the mayor of a small New England island town whose residents are convinced they are living under a centuries-old curse. Tom initially dismisses those fears, only to find himself increasingly drawn into the town’s growing catalogue of strange and supernatural events.

Created by Katie Dippold, whose previous credits include projects such as “Ghostbusters” and “The Heat,” the show has distinguished itself through its mix of folklore, mystery, and offbeat humor. The first season gradually expanded from local superstition into a sprawling mythology involving demonic pacts, family bloodlines, and unexplained phenomena that have haunted the island for generations.

The ensemble cast includes Matthew Rhys, Kate O’Flynn, Kevin Carroll, Dale Dickey, Kingston Rumi Southwick, and Stephen Root. Behind the camera, Hiro Murai serves as a key creative force, directing multiple episodes and executive producing the series alongside Dippold and other members of the production team.

The renewal is accompanied by a broader commitment from Apple TV+ to Dippold’s creative vision. Under her new overall deal, she will remain the driving force behind “Widow’s Bay” while also developing additional projects for the streamer.

With a second season already secured and the first still building toward its conclusion, Apple is positioning the series as a long-term part of its growing original programming slate.

Gerran Howell Teases a More Personal Story for Whitaker in Season 3

Howell revealed that the series appears ready to spend more time exploring the experiences that shaped Whitaker before he arrived at Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center.

“It’s all trickling in very slowly. We’re just getting scripts and having conversations with the writers,” Howell said, adding, “So I can’t spoil anything, but it’s all good stuff.”

The actor’s comments point toward a shift in focus for a character who has steadily grown from an uncertain medical student into one of the emergency department’s most dependable young physicians. Over the first two seasons, Whitaker’s resilience, compassion and work ethic made him a standout member of the ensemble, even as much of his personal history remained in the background.

That may be changing. Howell revealed that upcoming episodes could place greater emphasis on the life Whitaker knew before pursuing medicine. “I’m excited what they have in store for Whitaker,” he said. “It seems to be bringing a bit more of his backstory into the forefront, where he’s came from, what he’s left behind.”

Whitaker grew up in rural Nebraska and became the first member of his family to attend college and medical school. The show has also hinted at financial struggles, homesickness and complicated family dynamics, threads that have largely remained secondary to the fast paced demands of the emergency room.

For Howell, those elements appear poised to play a larger role moving forward. “Those aspects are starting to creep back into his shift this time,” he said. “So I’m excited.”

Created by R. Scott Gemmill and executive produced by John Wells and Noah Wyle, “The Pitt” has earned widespread praise for its realistic portrayal of emergency medicine and became one of television’s most decorated dramas. HBO Max renewed the series for a third season ahead of the Season 2 premiere, ensuring that viewers will get another chance to follow Whitaker and the rest of the Pitt staff through the pressures of a new shift.

The network’s selections include a mix of awards favorites, comedy veterans and major music stars. In the guest comedy actor category, NBC submitted Bad Bunny, Ryan Gosling, Harry Styles, Jack Black, Colman Domingo, Will Ferrell and Connor Storrie. On the actress side, Amy Poehler, Olivia Rodrigo, Melissa McCarthy and Ariana Grande were put forward.

The names missing from the list have generated just as much attention. Among those not submitted are Sabrina Carpenter, Matt Damon, Alexander Skarsgård, Glen Powell, Josh O’Connor, Finn Wolfhard, Miles Teller, Nikki Glaser and Teyana Taylor. Several of those hosts delivered some of the season’s most discussed episodes, making their absence one of the more notable developments of the Emmy campaign.

Inside NBC’s Emmy Strategy for Saturday Night Live Season 51

NBC’s decisions appear to reflect a combination of strategy, visibility and awards positioning. Some of the hosts who secured submissions were attached to the season’s strongest ratings performances. Grande’s December episode attracted approximately 5.4 million viewers, making it the most watched installment of the season, while Rodrigo’s May appearance drew nearly 5 million viewers. Both ultimately received Emmy backing.

That approach does not fully explain every choice, however. Skarsgård’s January episode, which also served as the show’s landmark 1,000th episode, ranked among the season’s most watched broadcasts with roughly 4.8 million viewers. Despite those numbers and widespread attention surrounding the milestone event, he was not included among the submissions.

Season 51 itself was a particularly eventful chapter for the long running sketch series. The show featured hosts ranging from first timers such as Connor Storrie to returning veterans like Will Ferrell, and delivered some of its strongest audiences of recent years. Ariana Grande’s holiday episode became a standout, while hosts including Sabrina Carpenter, Matt Damon and Alexander Skarsgård generated significant buzz both on air and across social media.

The Emmy submissions represent only the first stage of the process. Voting for nominations is currently underway, with the official nominees set to be announced on July 8. Until then, NBC’s selective approach has already created one of the more intriguing talking points of this year’s awards season, particularly given the number of recognizable names left on the sidelines.

1. She Made Global History with “Water”

Before she was booked for the World Cup festivities, Tyla became an overnight household name thanks to her July 2023 smash hit single, “Water.”

The sultry, infectious track sparked a massive, viral TikTok dance challenge that captured the attention of millions worldwide. “Water” rapidly climbed into the top 10 of the US Billboard Hot 100, making Tyla the first South African solo artist to enter the chart in 55 years.

2. She is an Multi-Grammy Winner

Tyla isn’t just a viral internet wonder; she has the hardware to back up the hype. At the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, she took home the inaugural trophy for Best African Music Performance for “Water.”

Proving she was no one-hit wonder, she followed it up by winning the exact same category again at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards for her hit “Push 2 Start.” She is currently the youngest African artist in history to win a Grammy.

What is “Popiano”?

Tyla describes her signature musical style as “popiano”—a seamless fusion of Western pop, R&B, and amapiano (a popular South African electronic dance music genre rooted in house, jazz, and deep baselines that originated in the mid-2010s).

3. Her Background and Roots

Born Tyla Laura Seethal on January 30, 2002, the 24-year-old singer was raised in a culturally rich, musical household in Johannesburg, South Africa. She grew up listening to global pop icons like Michael Jackson and Rihanna alongside local South African genres.

She has spoken openly about her multiethnic heritage—which includes Zulu, Indian, Mauritian, and Irish roots—and proud South African upbringing, often using her massive global platform to shine a spotlight on African dance styles and creators.

4. What’s Next For The Star?

With her self-titled debut album already a critical and commercial success, Tyla is showing no signs of slowing down. She is currently gearing up for the highly anticipated release of her second studio album, A*Pop, which is scheduled to drop later this summer.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering her unique sound during today’s World Cup celebrations, one thing is completely undeniable: Tyla is the future of global pop.

Matthew Broderick

Four decades after turning Ferris Bueller into one of cinema’s most memorable teenagers, Matthew Broderick remains as busy as ever across stage and screen. He is currently appearing in the Off Broadway satire “Ulster American” while also lining up new film projects, including “Tomorrow Is a Drag” and “The Best Is Yet to Come,” which reunites him with former co-star Alan Ruck.

In recent years, audiences have seen him tackle dramatic material as Richard Sackler in Netflix’s “Painkiller,” while also popping up in series such as “Only Murders in the Building” and “Elsbeth.” Theater continues to be a major part of his career, highlighted by his acclaimed run in “Plaza Suite” opposite wife Sarah Jessica Parker. Away from the spotlight, Broderick enjoys family life with Parker and their three children, splitting time between New York City and Ireland.

Alan Ruck

While many fans still associate Alan Ruck with anxious teenager Cameron Frye, the actor has spent decades building a remarkably varied career. His profile received a major boost in recent years thanks to his acclaimed performance as Connor Roy on “Succession,” a role that earned him both Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.

Looking ahead, Ruck has a busy schedule that includes the FX series “Disinherited.” Ferris Bueller fans will also get a special reunion when he shares the screen once again with Matthew Broderick in “The Best Is Yet to Come.” Away from Hollywood, Ruck enjoys family life with actress Mireille Enos and their children while continuing to balance television, film, and theater projects.

Mia Sara

Unlike many of her contemporaries, Mia Sara largely stepped away from Hollywood and spent years out of the public eye. The actress, who played Ferris Bueller’s girlfriend Sloane Peterson, recently made a surprise return to acting in “The Life of Chuck,” director Mike Flanagan’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novella.

Her comeback followed a 14-year-absence from the screen, during which she embraced a quieter lifestyle with husband Brian Henson in the English countryside. Sara devoted much of that time to writing poetry, horseback riding, and personal wellness practices, pursuits she has described as deeply fulfilling. It ultimately took a conversation with Flanagan, whose work she greatly admired, to convince her that the right role was worth returning for.

Jennifer Grey

Jennifer Grey has continued to reinvent herself long after her memorable turn as Jeanie Bueller, Ferris’s perpetually frustrated sister. The actress is preparing to revisit one of her most famous roles as Baby Houseman in the long-awaited “Dirty Dancing” sequel, where she is also serving as an executive producer. She recently appeared in Jesse Eisenberg’s acclaimed film “A Real Pain,” adding another well-received project to her extensive résumé.

Beyond acting, Grey found success as an author with her bestselling memoir “Out of the Corner,” which offered an unusually candid look at her career, personal struggles, and life in the spotlight. She remains active across film, television, and voice work, proving her career is as varied today as it was when audiences first met Jeanie in 1986.

Jeffrey Jones

Jeffrey Jones, remembered by movie fans as the exasperated Principal Ed Rooney, has largely remained out of the spotlight for many years. His Hollywood career slowed dramatically in the early 2000s following legal troubles that effectively ended his status as a regular screen presence.

One of his final significant acting roles came as newspaper publisher A. W. Merrick on HBO’s “Deadwood,” a character he later reprised in the 2019 reunion film. In recent years, he has made only occasional public appearances, including a “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” cast panel at a fan convention, where he spoke about relocating from Los Angeles to the desert.

Ben Stein

Few actors have become as closely associated with a single scene as Ben Stein, whose monotone economics teacher delivered one of “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” most quoted moments. Today, Stein spends far less time in front of movie cameras and focuses instead on writing, public speaking, and economic commentary.

He remains a frequent columnist and media contributor, offering his views on finance, business, and current events through articles, television appearances, and speaking engagements around the country. An accomplished author, Stein has written dozens of books covering subjects ranging from investing to personal finance.

Charlie Sheen

Charlie Sheen’s appearance in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” lasted only a few minutes, but his brief role as the police station delinquent became one of the film’s most memorable cameos. After decades spent as one of Hollywood’s most-talked about-stars, Sheen has entered a new chapter focused on stability, family, and rebuilding his career.

He recently launched the production company STRAC Media and has partnered with WME to develop future television and film projects. Sheen has also been open about his personal journey through a documentary and memoir that revisited both his successes and struggles. These days, he balances new professional ambitions with a quieter life centered on his children and long term sobriety.

Here is how a single track managed to unite the entire world ahead of the opening whistle.

The Meaning Behind “Dai Dai”

If you’ve been shouting the chorus without knowing what it means, you aren’t alone.

The title “Dai Dai” is actually an Italian slang exclamation that translates to “Come on!” or “Let’s go!” It’s a passionate, high-energy exhortation commonly heard in Italian sports, used to push athletes to give it their absolute all. By leaning into this universal sporting sentiment, Shakira and Burna Boy captured the exact adrenaline rush of the World Cup before a single ball was even kicked.

A Linguistic Masterpiece: 5 Languages, 1 Song

In an era where music is more global than ever, “Dai Dai” sets a staggering new benchmark. The song seamlessly weaves together five different languages:

• English
• Spanish
• Italian
• French
• Japanese

By blending these languages into one cohesive rhythm, the track eliminates borders entirely, ensuring that fans in Tokyo, Paris, Rome, Lagos, and Mexico City all hear a piece of themselves in the tournament’s definitive track.

The Secret Avengers of Pop

While Shakira and Burna Boy are the voices driving the hit, the brains behind the curtain are a certified musical dream team. “Dai Dai” was co-written and produced alongside pop geniuses Jon Bellion, Ed Sheeran, Benny Adam, and Alexander Castillo.

Charting from Day One

The track was released on May 15, amid heavy rumors that FIFA rushed its release to satisfy fans who were underwhelmed by other early tracks on the tournament’s official album. If that was the strategy, it worked beautifully.

“Dai Dai” immediately exploded across international airplay and streaming platforms. It quickly nabbed the #1 spot on the Latin America Anglo Airplay charts, dominated the airplay charts in Ecuador and Suriname, and secured top-5 positioning across Central America, Chile, and Colombia.

A Star-Studded Music Video

The global hype only amplified with the release of the song’s official music video, directed by industry icon Hannah Lux Davis. Filmed in Miami, the visual serves as a massive love letter to soccer culture, opening with unmissable cameos from the sport’s biggest icons: Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland.

The video also features a stunning, animated sequence of Shakira standing atop Mexico City’s iconic Angel of Independence—a perfect nod to the host nation welcoming the world.

The World Cup is Just the Beginning

For Shakira, “Dai Dai” marks her fourth official World Cup contribution, cementing her legacy alongside past triumphs like “Waka Waka” and “La La La.”

But the multi-lingual anthem is just the opening act for what promises to be an unforgettable summer. For fans already hooked on the track, the real spectacle arrives on July 19, 2026, when Shakira will join forces with Madonna and K-pop titans BTS for FIFA’s first-ever final halftime show at MetLife Stadium.

Paul Anthony Kelly Lands a Major Role in the Thriller Sequel

Kelly has been cast as Douglas Garrick, a wealthy businessman who becomes the latest employer of Millie, the former housemaid played by Sweeney. His character is married to Wendy Garrick, who will be portrayed by Dunst. The sequel adapts Freida McFadden’s second novel in the bestselling “Housemaid” series and continues Millie’s story after the events of the first film.

Behind the camera, Paul Feig is returning to direct after steering the original movie to commercial success. Rebecca Sonnenshine, who adapted the first installment, is once again handling screenplay duties.

The casting represents another major step in Kelly’s rapid rise. Before landing the role of John F. Kennedy Jr., the Canadian actor spent years working primarily as a model, appearing in campaigns for major fashion brands while pursuing acting opportunities. His breakout television role transformed him into one of the more closely watched newcomers of the year and helped put him on Hollywood’s radar.

“The Housemaid’s Secret” arrives with high expectations following the success of its predecessor. Released during the 2025 holiday season, “The Housemaid” starred Sweeney as Millie Calloway, a young woman with a criminal past who takes a job with a wealthy family only to uncover disturbing secrets lurking behind their seemingly perfect life. The psychological thriller became a box office hit, earning approximately $400 million worldwide and spawning plans for a larger franchise based on McFadden’s novels.

Dwayne Johnson Says Oscar Recognition Was a Real Goal

After spending decades as one of the industry’s most reliable box office draws, Johnson took a markedly different path with “The Smashing Machine,” Benny Safdie’s 2025 biographical drama about former MMA champion Mark Kerr.

The role earned some of the strongest reviews of his career and led to a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor, sparking awards season buzz that many believed could carry into the Oscars. Looking back on that campaign, Johnson admitted he had been hoping for more. “It would have been incredible to get nominated for an Oscar,” he told Esquire.

Rather than dismissing the disappointment, the actor said the prospect of Academy recognition mattered to him from the start. “It would have been amazing. I wish it happened. But it didn’t,” Johnson said. “But in no uncertain terms did I ever think, ‘Oh, that doesn’t matter.’ I always thought it mattered.”

The film itself represented a major departure from Johnson’s usual blockbuster fare. Released by A24 after premiering at the Venice Film Festival, where it won the Silver Lion, “The Smashing Machine” followed Kerr’s rise in mixed martial arts alongside his struggles with addiction and personal turmoil.

Johnson starred opposite Emily Blunt, with the pair portraying the complicated relationship at the center of Kerr’s story. Despite strong reviews, the picture struggled commercially and finished its theatrical run with just over $21 million worldwide against a reported $50 million budget.

Still, Johnson suggested the experience left a lasting impact. “It has lit a fire in my spine, which is: Let’s go back to work,” he said, signaling that prestige projects remain firmly on his radar. The actor’s upcoming slate includes Disney’s live-action “Moana,” arriving in July, and “Jumanji: Open World,” which is scheduled to close out the year, but his latest comments indicate that his pursuit of another awards caliber role is far from over.

Dwayne Johnson Opens Up About a Frightening Health Scare

The revelation came after Johnson discovered a lump on one of his t**ticles shortly before traveling to Las Vegas for CinemaCon, where he was scheduled to promote “Jumanji: Open World.” Recalling the doctor’s initial reaction, Johnson said, “The doc felt the lump and said it was probably epididymitis,” a condition involving inflammation of a tube. However, the physician also warned that “it could be cancer,” leaving the actor facing a far more serious possibility.

What followed was a difficult conversation about timing. According to the account shared with Esquire, the doctor asked, “What’s your schedule today?” Johnson explained that he was heading into an all day promotional event tied to the upcoming “Jumanji” film. Rather than wait, the physician urged him to return for further testing immediately the next morning, advising that he “needed to get an ultrasound first thing the next morning.”

That recommendation left Johnson with an anxious stretch of uncertainty. “So I had to live with that for those 24 hours, not knowing,” he said, while still carrying out a packed schedule in front of fans, exhibitors, and members of the press. Despite the circumstances, he continued with his public appearances, later recalling that he “had to be on all day, joking around, making speeches.”

The actor eventually underwent the ultrasound, which provided the answer he had been waiting for. The results showed that the lump was caused by epididymitis rather than cancer. Sharing the outcome, Johnson offered a simple update: “But! I’m okay.”

The experience unfolded during a particularly busy year for Johnson. Alongside his return as Maui in Disney’s live-action “Moana,” he is also leading “Jumanji: Open World,” the latest installment in the adventure franchise. While audiences saw him promoting major studio releases, he was simultaneously dealing with a deeply personal health concern and waiting to learn whether the diagnosis would change his life.

A Strong Endorsement Amid Questions About Hardy’s Future

As discussion continues over whether Hardy will return for a potential third season, Mirren left little doubt about where she stands. When asked if she would work with him again, the Oscar winner delivered a blunt and enthusiastic response: “Absolutely. In a ****ing heartbeat.”

The comments arrive after months of reports surrounding alleged friction during production. Early claims suggested Hardy had been removed from the series following disagreements on set. Subsequent reporting, however, indicated that no firing had taken place and that conversations regarding his future involvement remain ongoing.

Rather than dwelling on the controversy, Mirren used the opportunity to praise her co-star’s talent. “I love Tom, I think he’s the most amazing actor,” she said. The actress also noted that performers often approach their craft in different ways, adding, “Different actors have different processes.”

Mirren emphasized that the end result matters more than the route taken to get there. “As long as what’s on the screen is fantastic, I’m totally chilled with however someone gets there,” she said, before describing Hardy as “a very special person.”

She closed her remarks with an unmistakable show of support, calling Hardy “absolutely remarkable” and stressing, “My support of him is genuine and heartfelt.”

As a result, industry insiders believe the series may not return to screens until 2028 at the earliest, with some even suggesting a longer hiatus could be on the table while the broadcaster determines the next phase of one of its most valuable television properties.

BBC Begins Search for a New Direction

Behind the scenes, industry figures suggest the Christmas special became increasingly difficult to deliver as plans for the series unraveled. Sources told Deadline that there was no actor attached to play the Doctor and that scripts were not sufficiently developed to meet the production timeline. With only a matter of months before filming would have needed to begin, continuing with the special was ultimately deemed unrealistic.

Some insiders questioned why the episode was announced in the first place. One source described the reveal as an attempt to reassure viewers amid growing uncertainty surrounding the franchise’s future after Disney ended its co-production partnership.

The BBC’s next step will involve opening the show to outside producers as part of its charter obligations. The process could take months before a new creative team is selected, and even then, development and production would require additional time. As mentioned earlier, several industry figures believe a return before 2028 is unlikely, while others predict the franchise could remain off air for considerably longer.

The uncertainty follows the departure of Ncuti Gatwa, who played the Fifteenth Doctor. Introduced in 2023, Gatwa made history as the first Black man and the first openly queer actor to lead the series. He exited the role in 2025, ending a tenure that earned praise for his performance even as debate continued around the show’s creative direction.

Despite the current pause, few within the industry believe “Doctor Who” is in danger of disappearing permanently. The franchise remains one of the BBC’s most recognizable global brands, with a source close to the show comparing its long-term value to other multigenerational properties such as “Star Wars” and “Star Trek.” For now, however, the TARDIS appears headed for an extended stay in the repair shop as the broadcaster works to determine what comes next.

Billy Ray Cyrus Says Family Helped Him Through a Life Threatening Health Crisis

Reflecting on the health crisis, Cyrus said, “I got really sick and almost died.” He recalled periods when he was sent home from the hospital while still fighting for his recovery, spending time with his rescue dog Tommy Jack as doctors continued to monitor his condition. “My body was blowing up [with] a toxicity of some type,” he said, adding that the threat felt immediate. “If it had erupted, I would have died.”

As his condition worsened, Cyrus turned increasingly to prayer. He described making repeated visits to what he called his “prayer rock,” where he would ask for help. “Please. I need a miracle. I need a miracle,” he remembered praying.

According to Cyrus, doctors eventually prepared for what he believed would be one final surgery, but the outcome surprised everyone involved. “I got to the hospital [and] they said, ‘Mr. Cyrus, it’s gone. It’s healed,’” he said. “I had a miracle.”

Recovery brought another obstacle when the illness affected his voice. Cyrus revealed that he temporarily lost the ability to sing and speak because of vocal paralysis. Rather than giving up, he tried to convince himself that the setback would not be permanent. “I started believing once I had the first miracle,” he said. “I said, ‘Cyrus, you can’t talk or sing right now, but believe you can.’”

Music became one of the things that helped him push forward. Cyrus pointed to Noah Cyrus’ song “Don’t Put It All On Me,” written by his son Braison, as a source of comfort throughout the ordeal. “I just loved it so much,” he said of the track. “And I do credit that particular song [for] saving me.”

The singer also found encouragement from an unexpected place: his grandson Bear. Recalling one emotional moment during his recovery, Cyrus said, “In this very broken moment of my life, my little grandson Bear looked at me and said, ‘Try again.’” The comment stayed with him. “I thought, ‘He’s telling you something,’” Cyrus said. “Is it about love? Music? Somehow, I got to try again at both.” Looking ahead to the release of his new album, The Hill, he added, “So I’m learning to try again.”

Tim Allen Shares New Update on a Possible ‘Home Improvement’ Revival

More than 25 years after “Home Improvement” ended its eight-season-run on ABC, Allen said discussions about revisiting the sitcom have never completely disappeared. However, he indicated that turning those conversations into an actual production has proven far more complicated than simply securing studio support.

Reflecting on where the project stands, Allen noted that efforts to move forward repeatedly hit the same barrier. “They keep talking about how it could move forward, but they get stuck because there are some personality problems right now with the boys,” he said. While he did not elaborate further, he acknowledged that the actors involved “have their own issues.”

Allen has previously expressed interest in a revival centered on the Taylor family years after the original series. That concept remains his preferred approach. “I always thought it would be cool if it was a story about them,” he said, referring to the three sons of Tim and Jill Taylor who were played by Zachery Ty Bryan, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, and Taran Noah Smith.

The former child stars have taken very different paths since the sitcom concluded in 1999. Thomas stepped away from Hollywood years ago and has largely remained out of the public eye, while Smith left acting altogether and pursued other professional interests. Bryan, meanwhile, has faced a series of highly publicized legal troubles in recent years.

So, Allen stopped short of ruling out a return. He described the situation as “a little challenging right now, to put it mildly,” leaving the door open to the possibility that the project could eventually come together if circumstances change. For now, one of television’s defining family comedies of the 1990s remains a revival idea rather than a confirmed production.

Sydney Sweeney Says the Conversation Around Cassie Often Extended Beyond the Screen

When asked about the criticism she received during the run of “Euphoria,” Sweeney pointed to what she sees as a contradiction in the public response to both her character and herself. “I’ve always found it really interesting how people scrutinize how Cassie was treated on the show, and then they do it to me in real life,” she said.

The actress went on to argue that many viewers failed to recognize the parallel between the way Cassie was perceived within the series and the way discussions about the show often played out online. “There’s no awareness that [Cassie’s peers] sexualize Cassie on the show, but we’re going to do this in real life too.”

Sweeney acknowledged that the attention surrounding the role was not always easy to navigate, particularly as conversations about Cassie frequently spilled beyond the boundaries of the fictional character. “To be honest, sometimes it’s hard,” she admitted.

Still, the A-lister suggested that time may ultimately change how both the series and the discourse surrounding it are remembered. “I hope maybe years from now, when people are separated from the craziness and the clickbait of social media, someone who sits back and watch it all, doing a deep dive, goes, ‘Huh, maybe we all had this very wrong.’”

The filmmaker will receive the award at the 17th Governors Awards on Nov. 15 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood alongside fellow honorees Glenn Close and Floyd Norman.

The Director Behind Some of Cinema’s Most Lasting Worlds

Few filmmakers have left a visual imprint on popular culture quite like Scott. From the claustrophobic terror of “Alien” to the rain soaked future of “Blade Runner” and the grandeur of “Gladiator,” his pictures have repeatedly introduced audiences to worlds that continued to resonate long after their original release. Many of those productions went on to become reference points for entire genres.

What makes Scott’s career particularly unusual is that some of his most celebrated achievements were not always recognized immediately. “Blade Runner” struggled to find its audience when it first arrived in theaters, only to be reassessed over time as one of the defining science fiction films ever made. “Alien” similarly helped redefine what the genre could accomplish, blending suspense, horror, and striking visual design in a way that influenced decades of filmmaking.

The Academy has acknowledged Scott’s work on several occasions without ever awarding him a competitive Oscar. He received Best Director nominations for “Thelma & Louise,” “Gladiator,” and “Black Hawk Down,” while “The Martian” earned him a Best Picture nomination. Although “Gladiator” won the gold, Scott himself never secured an Oscar, a surprising distinction given his stature and influence within the industry.

Beyond awards, Scott’s longevity remains one of the most remarkable aspects of his career. Nearly five decades after making his feature directing debut with “The Duellists” in 1977, he continues to mount ambitious productions. Recent releases such as “Napoleon” and “Gladiator II” have demonstrated an output that few filmmakers of any generation can match.

For a director whose influence can be seen across countless movies, television series, and visual artists, the Honorary Oscar serves as recognition of a career that has helped define the look and scope of modern filmmaking.

The award will be presented at the 17th Governors Awards on Nov. 15 at the Ray Dolby Ballroom in Hollywood, where fellow honorees include filmmaker Ridley Scott and animator Floyd Norman.

A Long-Awaited Academy Recognition

Close has long held a unique place in Oscar history. Despite earning eight Academy Award nominations, she has never taken home a competitive Oscar, making her one of the most nominated performers without a win.

The actress first caught the Academy’s attention with supporting role nominations for “The World According to Garp,” “The Big Chill,” and “The Natural.” She later received leading actress nominations for “Fatal Attraction” and “Dangerous Liaisons,” performances that helped establish her as one of the defining screen talents of her generation.

More than two decades later, Close returned to the Oscar race with acclaimed turns in “Albert Nobbs,” “The Wife,” and “Hillbilly Elegy.” Her nomination for “The Wife” in particular reignited discussions about her place among the industry’s most respected performers, as many awards observers considered her a leading contender that season.

Beyond the Academy Awards, Close’s résumé includes three Primetime Emmy Awards, three Tony Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and multiple Screen Actors Guild honors. She is also among the select group of performers whose achievements have placed them in contention for both the Triple Crown of Acting and EGOT status.

Announcing the honor, Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor praised Close’s body of work, highlighting the emotional depth and complexity she has brought to a wide range of characters throughout her career.

George Clooney Backs Callum Turner for James Bond

Clooney’s endorsement arrives at a moment when interest in the next Bond has reached a fever pitch. Amazon MGM Studios is developing the franchise’s next chapter with acclaimed filmmaker Denis Villeneuve attached to direct, and industry chatter has increasingly centered on Turner as a serious contender.

The filmmaker worked with Turner on 2023’s “The Boys in the Boat,” where the British actor led the historical drama as Olympic rower Joe Rantz. Reflecting on Turner’s career choices since then, Clooney praised the path the actor has carved out in an industry often driven by commercial opportunities. “He hasn’t just gone for the easy paychecks. He’s done really interesting work,” the A-lister said.

Rather than pointing to a single breakout performance, Clooney highlighted the steady momentum Turner has built through projects that have helped him stand out from his peers. “Somehow Callum has weaved his way through all of the noise and found a place where people look at him and go, ‘There’s something with this young man.’ It’s exciting to watch people saying, ‘That guy, that’s a guy I want to follow and pay attention to.’”

The praise culminated in a direct endorsement for Bond. Without prompting, Clooney expressed hope that Turner ultimately lands the role, declaring, “I hope Callum ends up being the next Bond. I think he would be a great Bond.” He then listed the qualities he believes make the actor an ideal fit, adding, “He’s tall and handsome and charming and British, so he’s the perfect guy to do it.”

Turner, 36, has spent the last decade steadily building his résumé through projects such as “Fantastic Beasts,” “The Capture,” and “Masters of the Air.” More recently, his profile has risen even further thanks to high profile roles and his relationship with Dua Lipa. Whether Clooney’s prediction comes true remains to be seen, but his endorsement adds another influential voice to the growing campaign surrounding one of the most closely watched casting decisions in modern Hollywood.

The update arrives alongside confirmation that showrunner Russell T Davies will step away from the series once again, marking the end of another chapter for one of television’s most enduring properties.

BBC Maps Out a New Era for ‘Doctor Who’

Instead of producing a standalone holiday episode, the broadcaster said its focus has shifted toward securing the next phase of the franchise and finding a new co-production partner for future seasons. So, production companies are now being invited to participate in a competitive process to help shape the show’s next incarnation.

Davies addressed the decision in a message shared on Instagram, where he also confirmed his departure from the series. The writer described the move as “goodbye from me but hello to a big new future for the show,” while clarifying that the Christmas special never progressed beyond an early concept. “There was no script, I never wrote it, and no actor was ever approached to play the next Doctor,” he wrote.

“Doctor Who” has undergone significant changes behind the scenes in recent years. Since 2023, the series has been produced in partnership with Bad Wolf and distributed internationally through a deal with Disney+. That arrangement concluded in 2025 after 26 episodes, leaving the BBC to chart a new course for the franchise. The corporation said the decision to cancel the Christmas special was made after careful consideration and forms part of a larger effort to ensure the show’s long-term future.

Holiday specials have long been a defining part of the “Doctor Who” experience, frequently serving as major milestones for regenerations, companion departures, and new story arcs. While fans will now wait longer for the TARDIS to return to screens, the BBC has indicated that its focus remains on developing the next full era of the series rather than filling the gap with a one-off event.

Wendy Gledhill Recalls the Morning James Handy Was Killed

In the interview, Gledhill recalled that Handy got out of bed around 9 a.m. on June 3 to retrieve the newspaper. One detail stood out to her afterward. “James had gotten up to get the newspaper at about 9 o’clock, but he didn’t make the coffee like he usually does,” she told the outlet. She added that all she heard was the front door opening as he stepped outside.

Gledhill told the Daily Mail that she remained in bed and was unaware that a confrontation may have been unfolding outside the house. Referring to her son, Michael Gledhill, she said, “I can only assume my son was already out there and they started to argue, from my understanding, on the front yard.” She also acknowledged that she does not know what may have triggered the alleged dispute.

According to Gledhill, she did not realize anything had happened until officers from the Los Angeles Police Department arrived at the residence roughly half an hour later. “The first time I heard something was happening was when the police showed up,” she said. Authorities informed her that a 911 call had been placed and that “someone was wrapped in a blanket outside the house,” though she told the outlet she did not initially understand who they were referring to.

The interview also touched on Michael Gledhill’s mental health history. Gledhill said her 44-year-old son, who has reportedly been diagnosed with schizophrenia, may have stopped taking his medication in the week before the incident. “So I don’t think he was taking it at the time [of the alleged attack], but I don’t know for sure,” she told the publication.

Elsewhere in the interview, Gledhill described the emotional toll of the tragedy. “I was with James for 31 years and of course I loved him dearly,” she said. “This is so difficult.” She also told the Daily Mail that she has not left the home since Handy’s death.

The actor spent nearly five decades working steadily across film and television, appearing in titles including “Jumanji,” “Arachnophobia,” “Alias,” “Profiler,” “Logan” and “Top Gun: Maverick.” He died after suffering a fatal stab wound to the chest. Michael Gledhill was subsequently arrested and charged with murder.

The news was confirmed by his wife, Valarie Anderson, who told TMZ that he passed away Saturday at a hospital in the Los Angeles area after suffering a cardiac arrest in May.

According to Variety, Anderson said Guidera had remained on life support for three weeks following the medical emergency.

A Familiar Face Across Film and Television

While Guidera was not a household name, he carved out a recognizable presence in Hollywood through a string of supporting roles in major studio productions. Born in San Francisco on October 18, 1960, he made his feature film debut in Francis Ford Coppola’s “The Godfather Part III” in 1990, appearing as a bodyguard in the final chapter of the acclaimed crime saga.

His film career expanded throughout the decade with appearances in several high-profile releases. Audiences saw him in Roger Donaldson’s science-fiction thriller “Species,” Michael Bay’s action blockbuster “The Rock,” Kevin Costner’s The “Postman,” and the asteroid disaster epic “Armageddon.” Though often cast in smaller roles, Guidera became a familiar screen presence in productions that defined much of 1990s popular cinema.

Television viewers also encountered him in a variety of guest roles. His credits included appearances on “Baywatch,” “Renegade,” “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” and “Angel,” among other series.

One of the most unusual milestones of Guidera’s career came in 1996, when he shared the MTV Movie Award for Best Kiss with Natasha Henstridge for a scene in “Species.”

In a statement shared on social media, Anderson described her husband’s death as a devastating loss for the family and asked supporters to keep him in their thoughts.

Sydney Sweeney Trained for a Deleted Pole Dancing Scene in ‘Euphoria’

While reflecting on material that never appeared in the HBO drama, Sweeney recalled a storyline involving Cassie and Maddy during a visit to a st**p club. In the scene, Cassie becomes captivated by the performers and starts imagining herself in their world.

Describing the character’s reaction, Sweeney said, “Cassie starts to see the girls on stage and she gets really excited. She’s like, ‘Wow, these girls are beautiful. I could do this.’” What begins as curiosity quickly spirals into the kind of reckless confidence that often defined Cassie’s most memorable storylines.

The sequence would have eventually placed Cassie in the spotlight herself. “She gets w**ted and she goes up on the stage, she gets all dressed up and Cassie pole dances,” Sweeney recalled.

To prepare for the scene, the actress underwent pole dancing training. “I did lessons for pole dancing, and it was so much fun,” she said. Looking back on the experience, she added, “Imagine crazy Cassie on a pole, which was hilarious.”

The revelation arrives just weeks after “Euphoria” wrapped its third and final part. The eight-episode farewell picked up years after the events of Season 2 and followed Rue, Cassie, Maddy, Jules, and the rest of the ensemble as they navigated adulthood. While the series ultimately ended with a very different version of Cassie’s story, Sweeney’s comments offer a glimpse at one of the many ideas that never made it from production to the screen.

Prosecutors allege Nick Reiner was responsible for the killings and have indicated he could face the death penalty if convicted. He has pleaded not guilty.

Why Nick Reiner Is Seeking Access to the Trust

The newly filed petition centers on a trust established by the Reiners for their children. According to the filing, the arrangement was designed to distribute funds in stages, with beneficiaries receiving half of their share at age 30 and the remainder at age 35. Reiner’s legal team argues that those terms entitled him to money years ago and that the funds should already be under his control.

Court documents reportedly state that the trust contains at least $1.5 million in assets. The filing further claims that Reiner has not received the portion he was supposed to obtain when he turned 30 and alleges that the trustee, attorney Paul R. Kanin, has repeatedly declined to release the money.

His attorneys maintain that the trust dispute is separate from the criminal proceedings and contend that Reiner remains entitled to access his assets while awaiting trial. The petition emphasizes that he is presumed innocent and argues that withholding the funds limits his ability to build a defense.

The filing also points to the departure of high profile defense attorney Alan Jackson from the case, claiming Reiner lacked the resources necessary to retain him. As a result, he is currently relying on representation through the public defender’s office while seeking access to the trust.

Reiner’s lawyers argue that delays could affect trial preparation and accuse the trustee of improperly withholding money that belongs to him under the terms of the trust. The court will now be tasked with determining whether those assets can be released while the criminal case against him continues to move forward.

A New Chapter for an ’80s Animation Favorite

The reboot marks the latest effort to expand the “Jem and the Holograms” franchise, which first gained popularity through its animated series that aired between 1985 and 1988. Created by Christy Marx, the show followed Jerrica Benton, a record company owner who secretly transformed into pop star Jem with the help of an advanced holographic system known as Synergy.

Blending music, science-fiction, and melodrama, the original hit centered on the adventures of Jem and her band while they competed against rival groups such as The Misfits and The Stingers. The title also became known for incorporating original songs and music video sequences into nearly every episode, helping it stand out from other animated programs of the era.

The new adaptation has been in motion for several months. Hasbro Entertainment reportedly began shopping the project in late 2025, with Amazon quickly emerging as the frontrunner. Industry chatter linked Kilter Films to the series from the beginning, though it took time for negotiations to be finalized and the various agreements to be completed.

Kilter arrives with a strong track record in genre television. The company earned acclaim for HBO’s “Westworld” and later found major success with Prime Video’s “Fallout,” making its involvement one of the most notable aspects of the new project.

Additional creative details, including casting, writers, and a release timeline, have not yet been announced.

In a recent interview with ScreenRant, however, Scott offered a different perspective, suggesting that the situation may not be as settled as some reports have implied.

Scott Eastwood Says Retirement Talk May Be Premature

Asked whether Clint Eastwood has officially retired, Scott made it clear that he is not working from any inside confirmation. “We’ll see. I have not heard that from his mouth at all. So I don’t know what that feels like,” he said, leaving open the possibility that the 95-year-old filmmaker may not be finished yet.

Rather than discussing any future plans, Scott focused on the remarkable body of work his father has assembled across nearly seven decades in the entertainment industry. He described Clint’s career as “something to admire, something to be inspired by,” pointing not only to his achievements in front of the camera but also to his work behind the scenes.

“The work, the artistry that he’s done on and off screen,” Scott said, before listing the many roles Clint has filled throughout his career, including producing, writing, composing, directing and acting. “The body of work is incredible.”

If Clint Eastwood has indeed directed his final picture, that project would be “Juror #2,” the 2024 legal thriller starring Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, J.K. Simmons and Kiefer Sutherland. The movie earned strong reviews from critics and was later named among the National Board of Review’s top films of the year.

For now, though, any definitive retirement announcement appears to remain unconfirmed by the filmmaker himself, at least according to one of the people closest to him.

Tom Hanks Believes Great Voice Performances Already Qualify for Oscar Recognition

Rather than calling for new categories, Hanks pointed to the Academy’s current standards. “I think they have enough categories,” he said, before stressing that performers working exclusively with their voices are not excluded from consideration. “The truth is, a voice actor can win Best Actor.”

The A-lister argued that the Academy ultimately responds to the emotional impact of a performance rather than the way it is delivered. “Any performance that moved you,” he said, is what matters.

To illustrate his point, Hanks referenced Andy Serkis, whose groundbreaking motion capture work has long fueled debates about awards recognition. “Even though he does not appear as Andy Serkis, he gives all the raw material for it,” Hanks noted, before arguing that recognition for voice work remains possible under the current rules. “There’s been people who have been close to being nominated that do not appear on camera. That could happen to a pure-vocal actor.”

For Hanks, the issue is ultimately straightforward. “If they are moved — that means, they are moved by a human being’s performance — that’s all the requirement.”

His remarks arrive as he prepares to reprise Woody in “Toy Story 5,” the latest chapter in Pixar’s blockbuster franchise. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the film reunites many of the saga’s longtime cast members and explores a world where traditional toys compete with children’s growing attachment to technology. The movie is scheduled to reach theaters on June 19.

The development comes just months after Momoa’s casting was announced and does not appear to have altered the project’s overall trajectory. The adaptation remains in active development, with Sony reportedly beginning the search for a new leading star. Director Justin Lin, best known for revitalizing the “Fast and Furious” franchise, is still attached to helm the film.

Plot details have yet to be revealed, but the movie is currently scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 10, 2027. The project is being produced by PlayStation Productions alongside Sony Pictures, continuing the companies’ efforts to bring some of gaming’s most recognizable properties to film and television.

The Video Game Phenomenon Behind Sony’s Next Adaptation

Sony’s determination to keep the project moving reflects the growing profile of the “Helldivers” brand. When Arrowhead Game Studios launched the original title in 2015, it attracted attention for its demanding cooperative gameplay, which required players to work together while navigating the constant threat of friendly fire.

Rather than focusing on individual heroes, the series built its identity around teamwork. Missions often forced players to coordinate airstrikes, deploy specialized equipment, and complete objectives in hostile territory while facing endless waves of enemies. The approach helped the game carve out a loyal audience in an increasingly crowded shooter market.

The franchise’s fictional universe also became part of its appeal. Set under the rule of Super Earth, the games blend large scale science-fiction warfare with satire, presenting a society devoted to spreading its version of managed democracy across the galaxy.

The property reached a much wider audience with the arrival of “Helldivers 2” in 2024. The sequel shifted from a top-down perspective to third-person combat and quickly became one of the year’s biggest gaming successes.

That surge in popularity helped pave the way for Sony’s film adaptation, which was officially announced in 2025. While the studio must now find a new lead following Momoa’s exit, the continued momentum behind the franchise helps explain why the project remains a priority ahead of its planned 2027 release.

Portnoy shared an emotional reaction on Instagram after watching Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson perform together again on June 7 in Los Angeles, with German drummer Anika Nilles stepping into the role once occupied by the late Neil Peart. For Portnoy, whose admiration for Peart evolved into a personal friendship before the drummer’s death in 2020, the moment carried particular significance.

Mike Portnoy Says Rush’s Return “Needed to Happen”

Portnoy revealed that he spent the night following every moment of the band’s return from afar. “So many feelings and emotions today,” he wrote, explaining that he was “glued to YouTube all night long” while watching the RushCon livestream.

The drummer was particularly enthusiastic about the performance itself, calling the evening “magical” and declaring that “The setlist was absolutely PERFECT!!” He also expressed excitement about what’s still to come, noting that the group has “around three other variations up their sleeves.”

Much of his praise was reserved for Nilles, who took over the drum duties for the tour. “Anika absolutely KILLED IT in the best way imaginable,” Portnoy wrote, adding that he was thrilled to see her “nailing all of the big Neil moments with a giant smile on her face the whole time!” He then offered perhaps his strongest endorsement of the night, stating, “She really is the perfect choice for this!”

The concert’s tributes to Peart also left a lasting impression. Portnoy described them as “so tasteful and emotional” and openly admitted, “Yes I’ll admit I cried at a few points.” He also singled out the show’s technical side, calling the production “absolutely INSANE.”

For Portnoy, however, the most important part of the evening was seeing Lee and Lifeson back together onstage. “I am so happy for Geddy and Alex to be able to do this again,” he wrote. Looking at the broader significance of the tour, he added, “Seeing this tour come to life, it is very obvious this needed to happen,” before concluding that “Geddy and Alex deserve it. And the fans deserve it as well.”

According to Variety, Moonbug Entertainment is now pointing to new research conducted alongside child development experts to challenge those claims. The studio’s confidence stems from a collaboration with UCLA’s Center for Scholars and Storytellers, which reviewed Moonbug’s content and examined existing academic literature on children’s media.

The findings, according to both the company and researchers involved in the project, did not uncover clear evidence that programs like “CoComelon” are addictive or inherently harmful because of their editing style.

Researchers Say Existing Evidence Does Not Support Common Criticisms

Rich Hickey, Moonbug’s chief creative officer, said one of the most surprising outcomes of the partnership was hearing experts dismiss concerns that had long circulated online. “One of our most pleasant revelations from working with this group of experts is that they looked and said, ‘That’s not a thing,'” Hickey explained. He added that the researchers were impressed by the level of care and detail involved in the company’s production process.

The study’s conclusions were echoed by Dr. Yalda T. Uhls, founder and CEO of the Center for Scholars and Storytellers. Uhls acknowledged that she initially shared many of the concerns that critics have raised about “CoComelon.” However, after assembling a panel of specialists and reviewing available academic research, she said the team found little evidence supporting the idea that rapid editing or similar stylistic choices have a proven negative effect on children. “The data is fairly inconclusive,” Uhls noted.

Researchers also assessed a selection of Moonbug programs using a rubric based on developmental science. According to Uhls, the content generally demonstrated positive educational qualities, even if there was room for improvement. She said most of the evaluated material scored in the middle range rather than at the lowest end of the scale, suggesting that the shows already incorporated a number of beneficial elements before the collaboration began.

Uhls argued that some of the backlash may stem from adults judging children’s programming through their own preferences rather than through child development research. Reflecting on her experience as both a parent and a psychologist, she pointed to the negative reactions many adults once had toward Barney despite research showing educational value in the series. “You start to feel like, ‘This can’t be good for my child.’ But the research actually shows it’s not harmful. It can have positive outcomes,” she said.

For Hickey, the discussion ultimately comes back to transparency. He said Moonbug is aware of the amount of time children spend with its content and wants caregivers to better understand the educational goals behind each episode. “We take that responsibility really seriously,” Hickey said, encouraging parents to watch the programs themselves and evaluate the lessons being presented.

Rather than receiving a full season outline, cast members were typically given episodes one at a time, forcing them to discover major developments as they happened. Cranston said the approach proved especially effective on “Breaking Bad,” where Walter White’s journey was filled with unexpected turns.

How Bryan Cranston Learned the Truth About a Major ‘Breaking Bad’ Twist

While discussing the unpredictability of Gilligan’s storytelling, the actor recalled one particular moment from the series that caught him completely off guard. “I remember shooting an episode of Breaking Bad where Aaron Paul’s character, Jesse, comes at me with a gun because he thinks I poisoned the little boy in the show, and I’m going, ‘Why would I do that?'” Cranston said.

Reflecting on the scene, he remembered his character placing the blame on the main antagonist, arguing, “Gus Fring, he’s the one who would stand to gain by this!” As Walter desperately tried to convince Jesse of his innocence, Cranston delivered lines that reflected what he himself believed at the time. “You think I did it? Then kill me. Then shoot me right now, if you think I did it!”

The revelation arrived only after production moved forward and the next script landed in his hands. “And then the next episode came a few days later and I’m reading it and I go, ‘Oh, I did do it.’ Oops. My bad!”

The scene in question appeared in “End Times,” the penultimate episode from the fourth season of “Breaking Bad,” which aired in October 2011. The installment remains one of the show’s most acclaimed chapters and earned Aaron Paul an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his performance as Jesse Pinkman.

Idris Elba Says the Bond Speculation Was “Never Legit”

Reflecting on the years of discussion surrounding his name, Elba dismissed the notion that he was ever genuinely in contention for the role. “I’ve always felt that it’s not a realistic thing,” he told British GQ, and stated that the possibility was “never legit.”

Even so, Elba said he understood why the idea resonated with fans. “I was complimented by it,” he noted, acknowledging the enthusiasm that surrounded the prospect of him stepping into one of cinema’s most recognizable roles. The actor, however, suggested that the reality of a global franchise is more complicated than online casting campaigns.

Speaking about the international reach of Bond, Elba argued that audience expectations differ across cultures and markets. “James Bond was written how he was written for a reason,” he said, before adding that “Bond is big all over the world.” He went on to explain his view that “some markets just don’t go for that,” referring to the idea of a Black actor taking on the role.

Elba was even more direct when discussing how he believes some audiences would respond to such a casting choice. “And [audiences] won’t [all] go for a Black male, an African male, playing Bond,” he said. “That’s not what they like in their culture. Period.”

The actor also weighed in on the broader conversation surrounding the franchise’s future, cautioning against reshaping the character to satisfy every cultural debate. “Bond is so unrealistic, so a hint of reality is good, but let’s not try and make it woke,” he said. Emphasizing what he sees as the series’ core appeal, Elba added, “I think you’ve got to be pure to what it is: escapism. Don’t try and answer the world’s taste. Just be Bond.”

Elba’s latest remarks arrive as the Bond series prepares for its next chapter. Denis Villeneuve has been tapped to direct the upcoming title for Amazon MGM Studios, which now shares control of the property following a major restructuring of the franchise’s ownership. While casting remains under wraps, industry reports indicate that producers are searching for a new male British actor to take over the role.

With Villeneuve currently focused on “Dune: Part Three,” the next Bond film is not expected to reach theaters until at least late 2027 or 2028, setting up one of the longest gaps between installments in the series’ history.

Peter Dinklage Reflects on Sophie Turner’s Standout Performance

Looking back on the ensemble that turned “Game of Thrones” into a global television event, Dinklage did not hesitate when discussing Turner’s contribution to the series. “She was I think the greatest actress on this f****ng show,” he said, before recalling the level of preparation she consistently brought to set. “She was always so prepared.”

The compliment carried extra weight given the arc Turner was tasked with portraying. Introduced as the sheltered eldest Stark daughter dreaming of courtly romance, Sansa gradually became one of the most politically savvy figures in Westeros. Across the show, the character endured betrayals, captivity, public humiliation, family tragedy, and multiple shifts in power before ultimately being crowned Queen in the North.

Dinklage also pointed to the challenges built into the role itself. “And that was such a difficult part,” he remarked, acknowledging the complexity of a character whose evolution spanned nearly every major chapter of the story. Unlike many of the warriors and rulers, Sansa’s journey was largely defined by survival, adaptation, and strategic growth.

Turner joined “Game of Thrones” as a teenager and remained a central figure until the series concluded in 2019. Over the years, her performance earned increasing recognition, culminating in an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for the show’s final season. She was also part of the cast’s multiple Screen Actors Guild Award ensemble nominations.

According to World of Reel, citing an interview with the Financial Times, Lanthimos admitted he is questioning whether filmmaking remains his next destination.

The Director Says He Needs to Rediscover the Joy of Making Movies

The comments surfaced while Lanthimos was discussing his latest photography exhibition, a creative pursuit that has increasingly occupied his attention. Unlike filmmaking, which requires years of planning, financing, and coordination, photography offers a different rhythm.

Describing the experience, he called it “freeing” and noted that “you can just walk around with a camera, it is a solitary thing, and kind of meditative in a way. You don’t have to have a concept, you don’t have to have an end goal. You don’t have to find financing.”

That contrast appears to have prompted a broader reflection on his career. Rather than outlining future directing plans, Lanthimos suggested that the path ahead remains uncertain. “Will I make more films? I don’t know, we will see,” he said when asked about the possibility of continuing behind the camera.

The filmmaker’s hesitation is particularly notable given the success of his recent work. Since returning to the big screen with “The Favourite” in 2018, Lanthimos has become one of the industry’s most celebrated auteurs, earning Oscar recognition and expanding his long-running creative partnership with Emma Stone through multiple projects.

For now, however, he seems unwilling to force another production into motion. “I need to find again the joy in making films,” Lanthimos remarked, adding that he wants “to let it come naturally, instead of pushing myself.” Whether that leads to another feature or a longer detour into photography remains an open question.

During an appearance on SubwayTakes, the internet talk show hosted by Kareem Rahma, the singer and actress offered a characteristically confident opinion about who gets to call themselves a true New Yorker.

Jennifer Lopez Draws a Hard Line on New York Identity

Asked for her controversial takes, Lopez wasted little time getting to the point. “You have to be born in New York to be a New Yorker,” she said, before adding, “I know everybody wants to claim the city. Everybody wants to claim our city, but you have to be born in New York.”

The Bronx native went even further, arguing that the distinction comes down to where someone enters the world. “You have to be born in one of the five boroughs to be a New Yorker,” she said.

Rahma challenged the idea with a hypothetical example. What about someone who had spent 50 years living in New York and reached the age of 90? Would that person qualify? Lopez’s answer was immediate: “I have to say no.”

She did, however, acknowledge that decades in the city leave a mark. “You live in New York. You take on the characteristics of New Yorkers, probably by that time,” she said. “You have a New York sensibility. You pay New York taxes.”

Even with those concessions, Lopez maintained that residency and identity are not the same thing. “But I can’t call it,” she said. “When you are born in New York, that’s when you are really a New Yorker.”

The A-lister’s appearance on SubwayTakes comes as she promotes “Office Romance,” her new Netflix romantic comedy in which she stars as Jackie, the powerful CEO of Air Cruz. The film follows her character’s strict no-fraternization policy as it is put to the test by the arrival of a charismatic new lawyer, played by Brett Goldstein.

In a recent interview with Variety, executive producer Gordon Smith offered a glimpse into where work on Season 2 currently stands.

‘Pluribus’ Season 2 Has Reached a Key Stage in Development

Fans eager for news on Pluribus received one of the clearest updates yet this week. Speaking about the status of the new installment, Smith said the writers are currently focused on mapping out upcoming episodes, noting that the team is “about midway through Season 2” as they continue developing the story.

The update arrives several months after the first part concluded with Carol Sturka, played by Rhea Seehorn, making a dramatic alliance with fellow survivor Manousos Oviedo following the arrival of an atomic bomb.

While progress is underway, Smith indicated that the process remains demanding. “We are working as hard as we can and as fast as we can, which isn’t very fast, but it is the best we can do,” he said.

As for cameras rolling again, there is still no official start date. Smith expressed hope that production could resume “by the end of this year or early next year,” offering the strongest indication yet of when filming may begin.

Created by Vince Gilligan, the series follows novelist Sturka, one of only a handful of people immune to an event known as the Joining, which turned most of humanity into a peaceful hive mind. Season 1 earned widespread acclaim for its unusual premise, with Seehorn’s performance drawing particular attention as the show established itself as one of Apple TV’s biggest successes.

A Career That Reached Across Stage and Screen

Born Patrick Lindesay Archibald Godfrey in London on February 13, 1933, he began his professional journey after winning the prestigious Carleton Hobbs Bursary and joining the BBC’s Radio Drama Company in 1956. His screen career gathered momentum in the decades that followed, leading to roles in period dramas and literary adaptations that became staples of British cinema.

Godfrey appeared in films such as “A Room with a View,” “Maurice,” “The Remains of the Day,” “The Count of Monte Cristo,” “The Importance of Being Earnest,” “The Duchess,” “Les Misérables,” and “Mr. Turner.” While often cast in supporting parts, he developed a reputation for bringing authority and subtlety to historical figures, clergymen, academics, and aristocrats.

His role as Leonardo da Vinci in “Ever After” remains one of his most recognizable performances, thanks to the character’s relationship with Drew Barrymore‘s Danielle.

Television audiences encountered him in a wide range of productions over the years. His credits included “Doctor Who,” “Inspector Morse,” “Foyle’s War,” “Midsomer Murders,” “Casualty,” “The Bill,” “Doc Martin,” and “His Dark Materials.” He was also active in voice work, contributing performances to projects such as “BioShock 2,” “Red Dead Redemption,” and “Red Dead Redemption 2.”

Godfrey is survived by his wife, actress Amanda Walker, whom he married in 1960, and their two children.

Wayans Family Return Powers Franchise Comeback

The sixth entry arrives with a notable sense of nostalgia attached to it. Marlon, Shawn, and Keenen Ivory Wayans returned to write and produce the film, reuniting the creative team that helped establish the franchise as a box office force in the early 2000s. Their involvement became one of the picture’s primary selling points as marketing emphasized a return to the tone of the first two installments.

The movie also brings back several familiar faces. Anna Faris reprises her role as Cindy Campbell, while Regina Hall returns as Brenda Meeks alongside Marlon and Shawn Wayans as Shorty Meeks and Ray Wilkins. The story centers on the resurfacing of the masked killer that haunted the original flick, drawing the surviving characters back into another round of genre parody and self aware horror comedy.

Like its predecessors, “Scary Movie 6” targets a wide range of contemporary horror hits. The picture pokes fun at titles such as “Sinners,” “Longlegs,” “Smile,” “M3GAN,” “The Substance,” and the recent “Scream” movies, while also weaving in references to broader pop culture.

The box office performance is particularly notable given the film’s reported $30 million production budget. If weekend projections hold, the movie will have already earned nearly twice its production cost domestically within its first few days of release, giving Paramount and Miramax an early win as the summer movie season continues.

Critical reception has been mixed to negative, but audience turnout suggests that longtime fans were eager to see the franchise’s original creative voices return. With an opening weekend now expected to set a new series benchmark, “Scary Movie 6” appears poised to become one of the most commercially successful chapters in the parody franchise’s history.

Sean Penn says skipping the Oscars was “better for my mental health”

During the conversation, Penn stressed that his absence from the Academy Awards was not about the ceremony itself. “It’s not just [that it’s] an awards show,” he said. “It would be the same if this group was going to an afterparty and one stepped into that.” He added that large gatherings have long been difficult for him, describing them as “social discomfort” because there are simply “too many people.”

Penn went on to reveal that he has drawn a firm personal boundary when it comes to crowded events. “I’m now down, committed for life, that I won’t go anywhere to be in a designated group beyond eight people,” he said. According to the actor, those settings trigger his “anxiety” and are “dread-provoking.”

Ahead of the Oscars, Penn discussed the situation with his “One Battle After Another” collaborators and ultimately decided not to attend. The group agreed it was “better for my mental health” if he skipped the ceremony. Instead, he traveled to Ukraine for activist work, where he watched the broadcast despite the time difference.

Watching from abroad gave him a different experience than the one he had known as a nominee and winner. “I really got to enjoy the Academy Awards for the first time,” Penn said. “It was great.”

The actor also revealed that his decision was shaped by an earlier awards-season appearance. Reflecting on a visit to the Golden Globes, he said, “The best that I could ever muster was relief.” That event ultimately convinced him that awards shows were no longer for him. “I went to the Golden Globes; I’d never been to that before. And that’s where I decided, ‘I can’t do this.’” As for what makes those gatherings difficult, Penn offered a simple explanation: “It’s the ninth person.”

Sarah Michelle Gellar Revisits Buffy’s Farewell to Honor Anthony Head

Rather than beginning with her own words, Gellar opened her tribute with a line from the Season 5 finale, when Buffy leaves a message for her mentor before her ultimate sacrifice: “Tell Giles I figured it out and I’m ok.”

Gellar then revealed that the sentiment no longer felt true in the wake of Head’s passing. “Well I don’t have it figured out and I’m not ok. But I know I’m the lucky one because I knew you,” she wrote. The post quickly resonated with fans who remembered the emotional connection between Buffy and Giles, a relationship that evolved far beyond teacher and student during the show’s seven-season run.

The actress also took a moment to acknowledge Head’s family, thanking his daughters. “Thank you to Daisy and Emily who not only shared their dad with me, but with the world,” she wrote.

Head’s portrayal of Giles became one of the defining elements of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” Introduced as Buffy’s Watcher and mentor, the character gradually emerged as a father figure not only to Buffy but also to her closest friends. The role earned Head lasting acclaim and remained closely associated with him long after the series concluded in 2003.

According to Deadline, the project is not being positioned as a remake but as a new story that draws from the original premise while updating it for a very different media landscape.

Produced by Sony Pictures Television, the untitled pilot comes from writers Rob Rosell, known for his work on “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” alongside “Cobra Kai” collaborators Joe Piarulli and Luan Thomas.

Hulu’s Version Brings Chip Douglas Into the Streaming Age

While many film-to-television adaptations take only broad inspiration from their source material, Hulu’s project is maintaining a direct connection to “The Cable Guy.” Johnson and Wayans Jr. will portray updated versions of Chip Douglas and Steven Stephens, the characters originally played by Jim Carrey and Matthew Broderick in the 1996 picture directed by Ben Stiller.

The new series shifts the story into a world dominated by streaming services, binge watching and algorithm driven entertainment. According to the official logline, Chip is now an old fashioned cable technician struggling to find his place in an era that has largely moved beyond the service he represents. His life changes when Steven reaches out to have his cable reconnected, reviving a friendship that Chip has never forgotten.

At first, the relationship appears mutually beneficial. Both men find something they have been missing in their lives, but the dynamic gradually becomes more complicated as Chip’s eagerness begins to cross boundaries. The premise echoes the original film’s blend of comedy and discomfort while exploring themes of loneliness and connection through a modern lens.

Released in 1996, “The Cable Guy” followed an eccentric cable installer who inserted himself into the life of a reluctant customer after a chance encounter. The picture earned more than $100 million worldwide and, despite receiving mixed reviews at the time, later developed a devoted cult following. Its darker tone also marked a notable departure from the broader comedies that had made Carrey one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.

Whether the pilot ultimately moves forward to a full series remains to be seen, but Hulu’s order signals renewed interest in a film whose themes of media dependency and social isolation may be even more relevant today than they were thirty years ago.

‘The Acolyte’ Creator Hasn’t Given Up on Season 2

While no revival is currently in development, Headland made it clear that her enthusiasm for a second season has not faded. “I would still want to do it! Absolutely,” she told Empire. “As more people discover it, I think people may want to see some form of the story come back.”

Headland said the creative team had already mapped out several major storylines beyond the first season’s finale. “We did have a lot of stuff that we wanted to explore — including tying in lore to the sequels,” she revealed. Among the biggest unanswered questions were those surrounding Manny Jacinto’s Qimir, whose backstory was only beginning to emerge when the series ended.

According to Headland, future episodes would have dug deeper into the character’s connections across the “Star Wars” mythos. “Getting into who exactly Manny’s character is, his connection with Vernestra, his connection with Plagueis, and then his connection with other sequel established things,” she said, outlining some of the material that never made it to the screen.

For Headland, fluctuating reactions within the fandom are another reason not to rule out the show’s future. “The weather changes with Star Wars,” she said, pointing to how opinions can evolve over time. Referencing the once divisive prequel trilogy, she added, “There was a real negative reaction to [the Prequels], especially from a particular generation. And 25 years later, Hayden is at Celebration.” Whether that same reevaluation eventually benefits “The Acolyte” remains to be seen, but the creator is clearly keeping the door open.

Suspect Allegedly Confessed During 911 Call

Police were dispatched to the residence at approximately 9:30 a.m. after receiving a disturbing emergency call. According to Deadline, the caller told the dispatcher, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.” When officers arrived, they discovered Handy unconscious in the front yard with stab wounds to the chest. He was transported to a hospital, where he was later declared dead.

Investigators identified the suspect as 44-year-old Michael Gledhill. The Los Angeles Police Department said Gledhill approached responding officers and indicated that he was the person they were seeking. He was subsequently taken into custody and booked on suspicion of murder. Bail was set at $2 million.

LAPD officials also stated that Gledhill lived at the residence with his mother, who was reportedly in a relationship with Handy. Details regarding what may have led to the incident have not yet been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Handy built a lengthy career as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable character actors. Beginning in the late 1970s, he accumulated dozens of screen credits, appearing in films including “The Verdict,” “The Rocketeer,” “K-9,” and “Unbreakable,” among others.

His television résumé was equally extensive. Over the years, he appeared in series such as “Alias,” “Profiler,” “NYPD Blue,” “The West Wing,” “Law & Order,” “Criminal Minds,” “Castle,” and “The X-Files.” Though rarely a leading man, Handy became a familiar presence across American film and television, earning a reputation for dependable performances that kept him working steadily for nearly half a century.