Entertainment
Days of our Lives: Is Brady Black Stefano’s New Pawn in Dangerous Power Game?
Days of Our Lives shocks with a pawn missing from Stefano DiMera’s (Joseph Mascolo) chess set that he bequeathed to Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) and John Black (Drake Hogestyn) in his will. And now Brady Black (Eric Martsolf) and Chad DiMera (Connor Floyd) and Belle Black (Martha Madison) are all really interested in the chess set and exactly what was meant by this gift.
We’re going to talk about the missing pawn in Chad and Belle’s theory about another pawn and whether it might be Brady Black or somebody else equally interesting who’s supposed to take his dad’s place.
Days of Our Lives: The Missing Pawn Mystery
So, initially the assumption was that the missing pawn in the chess set referred to John Black, the original pawn himself. But then Chad pointed out this week that the chessboard and pieces were an inheritance meant for both Marlena and John.
And Chad pointed out that Stefano, his dad, would have no idea that John wouldn’t be alive to receive the bequest personally. So, then Chad and Belle were discussing whether it might have been a mystery meant for John rather than being about John.
And that leads us to the question of is there another pawn right now versus another pawn in the past? Marlena recently gave her daughter Belle permission for her and Chad to investigate the mysterious chessboard that Stefano gifted his queen of the night and his original pawn John.
However, Marlena was clear she didn’t want to know what Belle and Chad discover. So once they started thinking it through, Chad and Belle decided the missing game piece isn’t just symbolic of John Black’s past as Stefano’s brainwashed mercenary.
Chad and Belle are thinking that the pawn could reference a whole other person altogether. Maybe a new person. After all, there’s 16 pawns on the board. Eight on each side, eight in each color, not just a single pawn.
DOOL: Stefano’s Operatives and the Key Discovery
This suggests that Stefano had in the past or still has right now another operative or operatives or possibly a victim that he’s using as a pawn in this sick twisted game he’s playing from beyond the crypt. We’ve also gotten other hints recently with EJ DiMera (Dan Feuerriegel) and Theo Carver (Tyler Joseph Andrews) playing a frustrating game of chess this week in the living room under Stefano’s portrait while talking about his will and inheritances.
This week, Theo and Chad are looking over the chess set together at Brady Pub. And a key falls out into Theo’s hand. And that key could be the first step into figuring out who this pawn is.
We’re wondering if there’s a chance that it’s Belle’s brother, John’s son, Brady Black, who may be some sort of unwitting pawn in Stefano’s twisted final game. He’s playing with the family of Marlena and John Black.
Days of Our Lives: The Phoenix and His Chess Obsession
We all know The Phoenix loved chess and he loved manipulation and the deliberately missing pawn is no accident. It’s a puzzle or some sort of secret message that was meant to be solved. If you recall when Marlena first refused the bequest, the pawn and the queen were there and they were standing out from the rest of the set. So, I’m thinking this missing pawn signals that an undiscovered player may have already been on the board and John and Marlena just never knew it or a new pawn is soon going to emerge.
But Stefano had no way to know John would suffer the untimely and tragic death that he did. So, there is a chance absolutely that there is another pawn out there. Maybe somebody that Dr. Wilhelm Rolf (Richard Wharton) may have brainwashed for Stefano, much like was done to John Black back in the day. And this mysterious pawn could be lurking around any corner in Salem. And they may not even know that they’re the pawn. They may be basically a sleeper cell that hasn’t been activated.
Days of Our Lives: Brady Black as the New Pawn
And this may all link back to the coin that was left at John’s grave site that Marlena found. If you remember. And the next clue, of course, is the key that Chad and Theo discover while playing around with the chess set this week. So, Brady Black, as John and Isabella Kiriakis Black’s son, has deep family ties to Stefano’s rival and enemy.
So, Brady seems a fairly likely candidate as the new pawn. Plus, his closeness to Marlena, his bonus mom, I think, would also appeal to the late Phoenix. And it’s something that Stefano knew about. So Brady could be positioned to become the new pawn.
He also has a connection to Stefano through Kristen DiMera (Stacy Haiduk) and their daughter Rachel Black (Lorelei Olivia Mote). However, if Days of Our Lives really wanted to twist things up, skipping a generation and Rachel being the pawn would be really wild. But assuming it’s an adult, Brady could very well be the next generation pawn if you think about it.
John was Stefano’s pawn. But he also did dirty work for Victor Kiriakis (John Aniston), who eventually became John Black’s father-in-law when he married Isabella. And of course, Stefano and Victor were sworn enemies. And they were pretty much cut from the same type of villainous cloth as we’ve seen.
Stephanie Targets Brady on Days?
Plus, Brady ran his dad’s company, Basic Black, before he teamed up with Steve Johnson (Stephen Nichols) at Black Patch. So, already Brady is following in his dad John’s footsteps. Plus Brady and Sarah Horton (Linsey Godfrey) are soon investigating DiMera Enterprises Pharmaceuticals’ roles in the deaths of Destiny and her sister Clea. So this puts Brady at odds with Stefano’s heir wicked son EJ. But I don’t think Stefano’s heir apparent really knows anything about this new pawn game.

Days of Our Lives: Other Possible Pawns and Theories
However, Dr. Rolf probably is neck deep in with Stefano’s new pawn. And if it isn’t Brady, maybe it’s wicked little Rachel since she seemed so enamored of the Arabian Nights book. That’s of course one of Stefano’s tools when he played mind games with Marlena.
And of course there’s Tate Black (Leo Howard). He could always be an unsuspecting sleeper agent, especially with him getting all these hand-to-hand combat skills. Brady’s son with Theresa Donovan (Emily O’Brien). If you remember, was manipulated in the womb by Kristen and Dr. Rolf. If you recall, Tate was ripped out of Theresa’s womb and implanted in Kristen’s, who raised Tate as an infant.
Kristen even named Tate after herself, calling him Christopher with a K like Kristen. So, Tate could very very well be used as the new pawn in this story arc. But I feel like he’s a longer shot. Because the actors were fired and are leaving and they’re neck deep in another story line right now. However, it is supposed to be DiMera adjacent. So we’ll see.
Days of Our Lives: Stefano Had No Limits
And I will say Stefano wasn’t opposed to messing with his own family. So that leaves other options open. Including EJ, Tony DiMera (Thaao Penghlis), not so dead Peter Blake (Dan Gauthier), not so dead Stefan DiMera (Brandon Barash). Heck, even Theo could be the next pawn in whatever endgame Stefano is playing from the afterlife. But I tend to think that Stefano wouldn’t have done that to Theo.
Now, we know from the big summer promo that somebody is sitting behind a computer watching them play this game. They are manipulating them, dropping hints, dropping little keys and clues. So, I think it could be pretty cool if that was Brady Black and he didn’t even know he was doing it. But since Rolf snuck in and gave Peter that shot to kill him, Stefano’s adopted son might have been kept in a person pod awaiting a role to play in this new game. So, we’ll just have to wait and see.
Entertainment
BunnaB Reveals Why She Nearly Gave Up On Music
BunnaB is one of the newest rap girlies making her mark in hip-hop. Last year, she took over the summer with viral tracks like ‘Lil Innit,’ ‘Bunna Summa,’ and ‘Mad Again,’ leaving fans eager to see what she had in store for 2026. The rapper ended up sparking a viral TikTok challenge with her latest release, ‘Best B**tch,’ earlier this year.
But while BunnaB kept a smile on her face, many supporters had no idea about the personal struggles she was facing behind the scenes. Recently, the rapper opened up about one of the toughest periods of her life while celebrating a major milestone with her family.
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BunnaB Surprises Her Mom With A Brand New Home
On Wednesday, BunnaB took to social media to share that she had surprised her mother with a new home. In a heartfelt video, the rapper is seen dancing alongside her mom as they celebrate the special moment with family.
Alongside the post, BunnaB reflected on the milestone, writing, “half a mill on you bby girl love you mommy! Thank you God for everything.” The rapper also shared additional photos and videos featuring her siblings, adding, “Dang y’all, I bought my mama a house today! The day I’ve been dreaming of. She raised all 10 of us by herself! Had to give you the world! #LongLiveMyDaddy.”
BunnaB Opens Up On Nearly Giving Up Music And What’s Next For Her Career
While celebrating a major milestone for her family, BunnaB also took a moment to open up about the challenges she has faced behind the scenes. The rapper revealed that this year has been one of the toughest of her life, saying she has struggled to balance music, family, and everything in between. Despite the challenges, BunnaB said she is coming back stronger than ever and is preparing to release new music, visuals, and more for her supporters. In her post, she wrote:
“Y’all don’t understand how blessed I am. I know a lot of y’all have been asking, ‘Where’s the summer song?’ Truth is, this year has been one of the toughest years of my life. I’ve been trying to balance music, family, and everything in between, and at one point became so overwhelmed that I almost gave up on what I love most.
During the month of May, my baby brother was battling craniopharyngioma and had to undergo brain surgery. Watching someone you love go through that changes your whole perspective on life.
My mom has always been there for everybody else’s children, always giving, always helping, and always showing up when people need her. All I ever wanted was to be able to give her the world in return.
Through it all, God has continued to bless us, and I’m beyond grateful. Thank y’all for being patient with me and supporting me through this season.
But trust me… I’m coming back stronger than ever. New music, new visuals, new shows—everything is on the wayyyyy!”
Social Media Reacts
Many gathered under The Shade Room Teens to react to BunnaB’s latest post. While celebrating her big accomplishment, supporters also showed love and encouragement to her family.
Instagram user @_nostalgia3_ wrote, “congratulations, as a child this is one of the ULTIMATE goals. 💯 also, her mother looks like her sister.”
Instagram user @_leneak added, “That’s what its all about and family look healthy and happy 😍😍 🫶🏾 🫶🏾 “
While Instagram user @_richhomiemaine wrote, “So basically have at least 10 kids be one is guaranteed to become famous???”
Instagram user @princessbarbiebeauty wrote, “CONGRATULATIONS @bunnabI am rooting for her sooooo bad! She deserves the world!!! ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ “
Instagram user @its.yannak added, “and through it all she kept a smile on her face 🤍 Loveeeee her!”
While Instagram user @lilbiigrelle wrote, “She really got a family to feed !”
Instagram user @pimpin4rr wrote, “I wanna make my mama proud like this”
Instagram user @her.way32 added, “She definitely has a great mom who does a lot for her community as well. This was beautiful. Congratulations”
While Instagram user @lusciouske84 wrote, “God is great….keep going Bunna B…. Waiting for the new music to drop
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What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Young and the Restless: Explosive New Romances, Bizarre Crush & 2 Major Reunions!
Young and the Restless hints of about some couple swaps and shakeups coming soon, including Kyle Abbott (Michael Mealor) considering a shocking new romance that could ignite a family feud. Plus, Phyllis Summers (Michelle Stafford) may pursue a bizarre crush on a sketchy guy.
Plus, there’s a few dramatic reunions coming driven by tragedy and second chances. We’re going to get into what is coming for Kyle and Phyllis and Nate Hastings (Sean Dominic) and many others.
Young and the Restless: Kyle and Victoria’s Unexpected Romance
And now, let’s talk about romance and pairings and reunions on Y&R. Right off the bat, and I’m sure you already know this, headwriter Josh Griffith has a tendency to let promising romantic pairings just die on the vine. Like for instance, with Nick Newman (Joshua Morrow) and Sharon Newman (Sharon Case) going nowhere. Same with Victoria Newman (Amelia Heinle) and Nate Hastings. And of course, on top of that, there’s the ick of Patty Williams (Stacy Haiduk) forcing herself on Jack Abbott (Peter Bergman) again.
You know, with Victoria and Nate, they renewed their friendship. They sparked a little and then they fell off the radar as a pair. So, I do want to start with Victoria. She’s been enabling Victor Newman’s (Eric Braeden) awful antics and dealing with Nick’s addiction and now with Nikki Newman’s (Melody Thomas Scott) ongoing health issues.
Young and Restless: Victoria Needs Romance
So, also Victoria hasn’t had any romantic action pretty much since Cole Howard (J. Eddie Peck) died last year. She and Nate got closer when the two of them were sharing grief because his brother Damian Kane (Jermain Rivers) had been murdered and then Cole died of Legionnaire’s disease that in real life kills pretty much nobody.
So, Victoria is long overdue for romance and I suspect Y&R may intend to pair her with Kyle Abbott, which I’m totally down for. It definitely seems like Kyle and Victoria’s bickering could lead to romance, maybe the bedroom. Nate and Victoria haven’t sizzled in a long time. In fact, they fizzled and it was kind of a waste of time.
And since Young and the Restless keeps throwing Kyle together with Victoria, I suspect they could be chemistry testing them. And now that Jack is vowing revenge on Victor for bringing Patty to town and Diane Jenkins Abbott (Susan Walters) going missing, we’ve got the Abbott versus Newman feud heating up on both sides.
Y&R Twist: Kyle and Victoria’s Romeo & Juliet Story
So, if Young and the Restless pairs Kyle with Victoria, they would have a whole like Romeo and Juliet vibe, you know, some Westside Story type of action with Kyle and Victoria falling in love against all odds with both their families against the match. And honestly, if Kyle wants revenge on Victor, dating Victoria would be a good way to get it.
Plus, it would be extra soapy because Victoria was married to and shares kids with Kyle’s uncle, Billy Abbott (Jason Thompson). Plus, Kyle’s last big romance was with Victoria’s daughter, Claire Grace Newman (Hayley Erin). But since Josh Griffith likes the whole elder woman, younger man vibe right now, I could see Kyle and Victoria going for it.
Young and the Restless: Nate & Audra’s Second Chance
Next, let’s talk about Nate, who hasn’t been alone with Victoria in forever. So, I think that pair is dead. He’s at loose ends. And if you remember, Sally Spectra (Courtney Hope) was prodding Audra Charles (Zuleyka Silver) to take a second look at getting with Nate since he is incredible. And Sally told Audra to go for it with him and forget about Noah Newman (Lucas Adams).
Plus, it looks like that Noah is going to stick with his older love Sienna Bacall (Tamara Braun). Despite Audra turning up to sniff around Noah and flirt with him, it seems like Sienna and Noah are staying together, at least for now. So, I think Nate is a much more viable option for Audra. and she and Nate just had a very nice moment at Crimson Lights.
Also, it’s clear to me that Audra and Nate have hotter chemistry than her with Noah or him with Victoria. And a ton of fans really liked when Audra was with Nate. And of course, Audra did him wrong with the dirty deal that she cut with Victor.
Audra & Nate 2.0 on Y&R
But let’s be real, Nate is not always a good guy. He slept with Elena Dawson (Brytni Sarpy) when she was with Devon Hamilton (Bryton James) and he still forgave Nate. And Nate was with Elena when he started cheating on her with Victoria and she forgave him. So, Nate’s had second chances, third chances. That’s why I can see him giving Audra another chance. Plus, she was so good with Amy Lewis (Valarie Pettiford). And when Audra was with Nate, she was softer and less ruthless.
But of course, Victor tempted her to turn vicious and power hungry. But hopefully she learned her lesson. And if Nate gave Audra another chance, I think Sally would tell her, “Go for it.” I could see her telling Audra, “You better grab Nate with both hands. He’s a catch.” I think it could also be really cute with Sally and Billy doing double dates with Nate and Audra. I would be there for all of that, especially if Victoria is meant to wind up with Kyle. So, I think Audra and Nate version 2.0 would be a really good pairing. I would like to see him back with Audra and them in a loving, healthy relationship.
Plus, Nate knows firsthand that a romance with Victoria is going to bring irritating Newman interference, and I don’t think he wants to deal with Victor that way again. So, Audra, of course, would have to prove herself to Nate, but I think she could earn a second chance with him.
Young and the Restless: Victor & Nikki’s Reunion and Lily & Cane
And then another thing to talk about, we’ve got Victor and Nikki who have been split up for three months now. She asked Victor not too long ago about whether they could get back together. And he told Nikki, “Sure, we can get back together as soon as you cut Jack Abbott out of your life for good.” But Nikki is unwilling to get rid of her oldest friend. So, she and Victor are at an impasse. But Nikki’s in bad shape medically with those headaches intensifying and her vision deteriorating.
So, Victoria is pressuring her mom to go to the doctor. And when Nikki does, she gets a scary diagnosis, and that sends Victor running back to her side to see Nikki through this, and it’s going to trigger their reunion. Also, Lily Winters (Christel Khalil) and Cane Ashby (Billy Flynn) have been kissing and warming up. I expect more canoodling, and that Lily and Cane are an officially reunited couple during July sweeps. I think Lily is going to wind up over at Cane’s place and in between his sheets with him very soon. and Devon and the other haters who don’t like Lily being with Cane are just going to have to deal with it.

Young and the Restless: Phyllis & Matt Clark’s Unexpected Connection
And now I want to talk about Phyllis Summers. So, if you remember, her last sort of romantic interest was Cane, but their pairing wasn’t even really romantic. It was all about revenge and him trying to get over Lily. And with Cane off the market, we’ve got Phyllis again at loose ends. But she has some kind of weird thing with Matt Clark (Roger Howarth) going on.
Even knowing what he did to Sharon back in the day, Phyllis was worried about what Victor would do to Matt when he got a hold of him. She was actually trying to protect him. And in a way, Phyllis and Matt are a perfect match for each other because nobody else in Genoa City would be willing to date either of them at this point.
Young and the Restless: Phyllis & Matt May Pair Up
But, you know, in all seriousness, Matt and Phyllis do have a vibe. And since Young and the Restless seems to be redeeming Matt despite his icky past, and they’re going to keep Roger Howarth around, which is great because I like him as an actor, you know, despite Matt’s horrible past. So, yeah, be on the lookout for more scenes with Phyllis and Matt, and maybe some sparks flying between them. I wouldn’t hate it. But I just don’t like the idea of them redeeming a rapist, but they’re obviously going to do that anyway.
I also expect to see Holden Novak (Nathan Owens) and Claire getting more serious and Jack fighting against Patty who might drug him into bed again. But in the end, I do anticipate Jack and Diane are happily reunited despite this awful plot. But either way, I’m expecting some hot new pairings, some dramatic reunions, and some couple shakeups that maybe we weren’t even expecting on Young and the Restless.
Entertainment
Jelly Roll Breaks Silence On Divorce From Bunnie XO (VIDEO)
Whew! Jelly Roll had the crowd locked in during a recent show as he finally stepped forward to clear the air on everything fans have been speculating about within his personal life. In a rare moment on stage, he addressed the noise head-on, giving fans clarity on where things really stand between him and Bunnie XO. Though, it left some wondering whether he was confirming or shutting down the divorce rumors circulating online.
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Jelly Roll Addresses Viral Photo With Daughter
In a TikTok post shared on June 5, Jelly Roll included a photo of himself alongside his 18-year-old daughter Bailee, both flashing their middle fingers in a carefree moment. The overlay text read, “Can’t believe my life right now I feel on top of the world,” pulling directly from his feature on Latto’s track ‘Mama.’ But the comments quickly spiraled, with users assuming the post targeted his personal life and recent split from Bunnie XO—despite no mention of her in the video. However, on June 17, Jelly Roll shut the speculation down directly in the comments, making it clear the timing was misunderstood.
“This wasn’t posted today it’s just going viral today, it is not a response to anything. All this post meant was I love my daughter and I’m honored to be on Latto’s song. Love y’all,” he wrote, putting the rumors to rest and reminding fans that sometimes a post is just a post.
RELATED: Hol’ Up! Bunnie XO Sparks Confusion After Posting Video Lip-Syncing To One Of Jelly Roll’s Songs (VIDEO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
The ‘Sad Part’ Behind Jelly Roll And Bunnie XO Split
For years, Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO appeared to be one of country music’s most resilient couples, weathering personal struggles, career changes, and intense public attention together. Their love story survived challenges that might have broken many relationships.
Now, as their marriage comes to an end, new details are emerging about the difficult road that led to their separation and the heartbreak left behind.

News of Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO’s divorce came as a shock to many fans who had watched their relationship evolve over nearly a decade.
While reports suggest the split was mutual, one insider believes the most painful aspect of the breakup is everything Bunnie endured while standing by her husband’s side.
“The sad part is that Bunnie stood by him through everything,” a source told Page Six. “She was there before the fame, before all the awards, before his sold out shows. She stayed through some incredibly difficult periods, including challenges that would have ended a lot of marriages.”
Despite the heartbreak, the source stressed that there is still a deep connection between the former couple. According to the insider, Jelly Roll and Bunnie ultimately reached a difficult realization about their future.
“Jelly Roll and Bunnie eventually had to be honest with themselves that they weren’t building the same future anymore,” the source explained.
Even with the marriage ending, those close to them reportedly believe there remains a “tremendous amount of love” between the two.
Jelly Roll And Bunnie XO Faced Growing Differences

While no single issue appears to have ended the marriage, people close to the couple believe their lives gradually began moving in different directions.
One source previously told Page Six that friends and associates noticed changes in the dynamic between them over time. According to the insider, some observers “felt there was growing tension as Jelly embraced a more faith-centered lifestyle while Bunnie continued building the outspoken and provocative brand that had always been authentic to her.”
The source added, “Whether that’s fair or not, it became increasingly difficult to reconcile those two worlds.”
As Jelly Roll’s popularity continued to soar, balancing personal values, public expectations, and separate career paths reportedly became increasingly challenging.
Past Struggles Continued To Cast A Shadow

The former couple had already faced significant obstacles long before the divorce filing.
In 2018, they briefly separated after Jelly Roll admitted to a months-long affair. Although they eventually reconciled and rebuilt their marriage, insiders suggest some lingering issues never fully disappeared.
Reflecting on the pressures they faced, a source explained, “When you add in the pressure of fame, constant public scrutiny and then the unresolved issues from the earlier years of their marriage, including trust issues they worked hard to overcome, it created a situation where they kept finding themselves having the same conversations over and over.”
Those recurring difficulties reportedly became harder to ignore as both continued navigating increasingly demanding careers.
The divorce filing became public this week after legal documents revealed that the singer, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, filed on May 18 in Williamson County, Tennessee. Court records cited “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split.
Jelly Roll Divorce News Sparks Public Attention

The timing of the divorce revelation quickly fueled speculation online.
Just hours before the filing became public knowledge, Bunnie XO shared a glamorous photo of herself wearing pink satin lingerie. Alongside the image, she posted a message that many followers later interpreted as symbolic.
“She’s getting her sparkle back,” Bunnie wrote.
The following day, reports emerged that a moving truck had been spotted outside the couple’s Tennessee home. It remains unclear whose belongings were being moved.
Their relationship began in 2015 after meeting at one of Jelly Roll’s concerts. The pair secretly married in Las Vegas in August 2016, the same night he proposed. They later renewed their vows in 2023.
Throughout their marriage, Bunnie also embraced a parental role in the lives of Jelly Roll’s children, daughter Bailee Ann and son Noah Buddy.
Family Responds To The Split

As public interest intensified, Jelly Roll’s daughter Bailee Ann addressed the attention surrounding the family.
Rather than discussing the divorce itself, the 18-year-old used TikTok to express frustration over how closely people were following the situation.
“I am disgusted at how invested everyone is in a very clearly private family matter,” she wrote.
Bailee then urged followers to focus on their own lives rather than her family’s personal struggles, adding, “Worry about your house – not mine.”
Although many hoped she would provide additional details, she made it clear that she was not ready to speak publicly about the breakup.
“I’m not speaking on it – yet,” she added.
For now, both Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO appear to be moving forward separately after nearly ten years together.
Entertainment
Tom Hanks’ Viral MS NOW Dig Sparks Backlash Online
Tom Hanks created an unexpected viral moment during the ceremonial opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago when a brief exchange with a television reporter quickly turned into one of the event’s most talked-about moments.
The Oscar-winning actor’s playful but pointed remark sparked laughter, criticism, and a flood of online reactions, putting the spotlight on a media network’s struggles and Hanks’ trademark wit.
The unexpected exchange unfolded shortly after Tom Hanks arrived at the opening ceremony on Thursday.
MS NOW Senior National and Political Correspondent Jacob Soboroff was livestreaming from the event when he approached the actor in hopes of securing a quick interview.
“Great to see you,” Soboroff said while trying to get Hanks’ attention.
Initially occupied, Hanks eventually turned toward the reporter after some persistence. Rather than answering questions immediately, he opened with a remark that caught everyone off guard.
“What can I do for the 800 people watching MS NOW?” Hanks joked.
The comment appeared to reference the network’s declining television audience and immediately changed the tone of the interaction.
Soboroff responded with a smile and reminded the actor, “Oh, come on. We’re live on MS NOW.”
Tom Hanks And The Reporter Trade Playful Barbs

The exchange didn’t end there. After Soboroff pushed back, Hanks fired off another quip.
“All right – add a zero to it,” he replied in a deadpan manner.
The reporter quickly countered by saying, “I would say millions now that you’re on our air.”
At that point, Hanks appeared ready to move on from the joke.
“All right. All right,” he said before answering questions about the event itself.
The moment lasted only seconds, but it was enough to capture the internet’s attention. Clips of the interaction quickly spread across social media platform X, generating hundreds of thousands of views within hours.
For many viewers, the brief exchange became more memorable than the event where it occurred.
Online Reactions Split Over The Viral Moment

As the clip circulated online, reactions came from every direction.
Some viewers found the actor’s comments hilarious and praised his sense of humor. Others felt the joke crossed a line and criticized the actor for taking a swipe at the network during a live broadcast.
One social media user wrote, “Asking Tom Hanks for a comment these days is like a box of chocolates….you never know what you’re gonna get.”
Not everyone was amused. “Pretty arrogant, Tom. Not a great look,” another commenter posted.
A third critic added, “Hanks was always a whiny, immature and twisted liberal.”
Supporters were equally vocal. “Tom immediately with a banger,” one fan wrote.
Another user commented, “He goofy with those jokes,” while someone else praised the interaction altogether, saying, “The entire interview was awesome.”
The Network Behind The Joke
The joke landed against the backdrop of real challenges facing traditional cable television.
Like many linear television networks, MS NOW has experienced audience declines over the years despite recent efforts to strengthen its position.
According to the Daily Mail, the network currently averages roughly 900,000 viewers, down from averages that exceeded 1.1 million viewers in 2016.
As changing viewing habits and cord-cutting continue reshaping the industry, the network has undergone major changes. It was renamed from MSNBC in November as part of a broader corporate restructuring effort following its separation from Comcast.
Today, the channel operates under Versant, a media company focused primarily on domestic cable properties. Other networks under its portfolio include CNBC, Golf Channel, E!, Syfy, and Oxygen.
Against that backdrop, Hanks’ quip resonated with many viewers already familiar with the changing television landscape.
Tom Hanks Focuses On ‘Toy Story 5’
Away from the viral controversy, Hanks is preparing for another major career milestone.
The actor will return as Woody in “Toy Story 5,” which arrives in theaters on June 19.
Speaking with PEOPLE in New York last month, Hanks expressed enthusiasm about returning to one of Pixar’s most beloved franchises.
“Oh my Lord, all I can say is the saga continues,” he said.
The original “Toy Story” debuted in 1995 and became a global phenomenon, launching one of animation’s most successful franchises. More than three decades later, Hanks remains amazed that the journey is continuing.
“I have seen it. I don’t know how they do it, but it is a vibrant and proper chapter in the Toy Story canon,” he said. “None of us can believe that we’re still a part of it.”
The new film will see Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and the rest of the gang facing a modern challenge as technology competes for children’s attention.
Director Andrew Stanton previously explained the central conflict by saying, “In Toy Story 5 the toys’ jobs get exponentially harder when our toy crew goes head to head with what kids are obsessed with today: electronics.”
Entertainment
New York Knicks Will Reportedly Visit White House/Donald Trump
The New York Knicks will reportedly become the first NBA champions to visit the White House under Donald Trump‘s presidency.
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New York Knicks Will Reportedly Become First NBA Champions To Visit White House Under Donald Trump’s Presidency
According to USA Today, James Dolan, the owner of the New York Knicks, accepted an invitation from the president for the team to visit the White House. Per the outlet, Dolan shared his acceptance on Wednesday, June 17, while appearing on WFAN New York.
“… We just did receive an invitation from the White House, which we accepted. We still have to figure out the details, et cetera, but yes, of course. Look, I invited the president to come down for the game. He is a friend. I’ve known him for 30 years, and I’m very proud to bring the team to the White House,” Dolan explained.
James Dolan confirms the Knicks have been invited to the White House and have accepted:@craigcartonlive @CMacWFAN pic.twitter.com/kemKQZJhf9
— WFAN Sports Radio (@WFAN660) June 17, 2026
Per the outlet, the previous five teams that have won NBA championships during Trump’s presidency have declined invitations to the White House. Fox News adds that the date of the Knicks’ trips remains to be finalized, along with how many players will attend.
Social Media Reacts To The Team Being The First NBA Champions To Reportedly Visit White House During Donald Trump’s Presidency
Social media users reacted to the New York Knicks’ upcoming trip to the White House in TSR’s comment section.
Instagram user @xoxoxoxobs wrote, “I thought the players declined? 🤨”
While Instagram user @astarrwasborn_ added, “Lol the team declined. The owner accepted. Then forced the players to comply by threatening reprimand for not complying. The strategic captions is problematic”
Instagram user @nickgtv_ wrote, “The owner accepted idk if the players are aware 😂”
While Instagram user @thedbwallstreet added, “The only game they lost he attended. If they go they probably won’t win again for 100 years”
Instagram user @shawnalyng3 wrote, “I don’t expect everyone on that team to be on the same political stance but as a player you decide for yourself. I’m not available 😂 and if you say it’s mandatory. I’ll take the fine. Period! 👏 #youbetter”
While Instagram user @deeohhhmaris added, “The owner accepted the invite. Not the team. They might have something already scheduled for that day 🙃😉”
Instagram user @dippdnreddofficial wrote, “This sounds very forced 😂😂😂 nothing is organic about this 😂”
While Instagram user @realfriarielle added, “I don’t think the players know this”
Instagram user @beloved83 wrote, “The owner will be the only one there lol”
While Instagram user @thebrianap added, “The owner accepted it not the players, and I’ll doubt they will go !”
Instagram user @latinas_kisses wrote, “People are allowed to do as they please! 🔥🔥 Shout out to the New York Knicks for not being followers 🧡💙”
The New York Knicks’ Parade & French Montana Gives Back
According to abc7NY, the Knicks’ celebration parade commenced in New York City on Thursday, June 18. At this time, it’s estimated that more than 1 million people attended, and things concluded with a “Key to the City” ceremony on City Hall Plaza.
In addition to the Knicks having a grand celebration, a taxi cab owner may also be celebrating. According to CBS News, French Montana exclusively shared that he presented Noureddine Bitat with a $75,000 check after New Yorkers swarmed his taxi and smashed his windshield following the Knicks’ championship win.
“I just saw a man trying to feed his family,” French, who reportedly raised the money with YouTuber Zachery Dereniowski and the New York Taxi Workers Alliance, told the outlet.
Per French, Bitat reportedly told him that he no longer wants to drive a taxi. Therefore, the money will go towards assisting him with his living expenses “until he figures out what he wants to do.”
“I asked him, ‘Does he even watch the Knicks?’ He said, ‘I don’t even know what the Knicks is.’ He just happened to be working around the place, and you know, things unfortunately happened to him. He doesn’t deserve it. So we all came together to help,” French stated.
RELATED: Empire State Of Ballin’! Celebrity Reactions Take Over Timelines Following The Knicks’ Championship Win (VIDEOS)
What Do You Think Roomies?
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