Entertainment
Ellie Kemper Would Love To Do Another Season Of This Fan-Favorite Series
Known for making audiences laugh on screen, actress Ellie Kemper is bringing that same playful energy to families this summer through a recent partnership with Pirate’s Booty.
The mom of two recently sat down with The Blast to share a little about the partnership, as well as to reminisce about some fan-favorite shows, balancing set life with motherhood, and what favorite summer tradition her family looks forward to year after year. She even told The Blast she would love to do a few more seasons of one of her hit shows (no spoiler alerts here)!
Kemper, a mom of two boys ages 6 and 9, said the partnership with Pirate’s Booty for their Captain Bob’s Summer Quest guide was a perfect fit.
“I love Pirate’s Booty. First and foremost, I as an individual love Pirate’s Booty. As a mom, I also love Pirate’s Booty. It’s really easy to pack, it’s easy to put in a lunch bag and my kids love it. It’s a treat they look forward to, and I become a favorite mom,” Kemper told The Blast exclusively. “I was very interested in this partnership.”
After Kemper learned more about Captain Bob’s Summer Quest, she said it was a “no brainer to join forces.”
“The whole kind of premise behind this project is to get kids off screens as much as they can this summer and to fuel imaginative play, which is something I personally like as an adult,” she said. “It’s really nice to share with my own kids.”
Families can join Captain Bob and his parrot sidekick Crunchy on summer adventures through easy-to-follow prompts and imaginative activities designed to spark creativity, encourage exploration, and create memorable moments together.
“Pirate’s Booty’s Summer Quest, inspired by our own Captain Bob, was built around a simple idea: helping families find easy ways to connect through play,” said Eric Bowers, VP of Salty Marketing, The Hershey Company. “We know that meaningful moments don’t require elaborate plans – just opportunities to explore, create, and spend time together.”
The Summer Tradition That Brings Ellie Kemper Back To Childhood

Kemper and her family have a summer tradition that they look forward to each year – visiting the grandparents in San Diego and St. Louis.
“We go to visit both sets every summer and it’s a lot of fun. We usually spend a longer time in St. Louis, and I have family there so the kids get to see their cousins. It’s always unbearably hot but that’s part of the experience. It’s what I grew up with,” she told The Blast. “It’s nice to share that with the kids.”
Finding That Work-Life Balance Can Be Tougher In The Summer Months

When asked how she finds a balance between set life and mom life, especially in the summer months when the kids are out of school, Kemper responded, “tell me because I am constantly asking that question of other moms too.”
“Any job that you have, I think once summer hits, it’s really crazy because your schedule doesn’t necessarily shift, but the kids don’t have school,” she said. “So that I find to be a constant balancing act. I certainly haven’t figured it out, and I am often very stressed out trying to fill in those gaps.”
Kemper said that the Pirate’s Booty guide has been a “breath of fresh air” for her because the activities are easy and fun and only require items around the house.
“You don’t have to go out and get anything. And those have been moments to take deep breaths for me and the kids,” she shared. “So those have been real nice moments of respite.”
What Hit Series Would Ellie Kemper Love To Do Another Season Or Two?

For fans of the hit Netflix original series, “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” four seasons wasn’t enough. It’s such a fan-favorite that many rewatch it over and over. When asked what the best part about filming the show was, Kemper said she has “very tender memories of all of it.”
“At first, it was working with Robert Carlock and Tina Fey because I admired their work for years and years, and they’re just icons,” she said. “And then, once I got to meet the other actors on the show, that was like the blessings just kept coming. What a gift to be able to work with all of my castmates.”
She added that it was a bonus that filming took place in New York City, and said “every part of that worked out.”
When the chat moved in the direction of wishing there was another season, Kemper said she would do it in a heartbeat.
Ellie Kemper Loved ‘The Office’ Before She Was Even On It

When talking about beloved television series, “The Office” is sure to pop into any chat. Many fans still binge it to this day, years after it ended production.
“I loved the show before I got a job on it, because my character didn’t make an appearance until season 5,” Kemper told The Blast. “I understand why people love it. It’s so relatable and so comforting. The characters are jus like you know one of those characters in every part of your life. You could say, ‘oh that’s a Dwight,’ or ‘that’s a Phyllis.’”
She also added that the fact that people are still watching the show “speaks to the writing on the show, the heart of the show.” Kemper said she was “blessed to have had any part in any of it.”
Entertainment
Karrueche Tran’s Cooking Habit Leaves Deion Sanders Shook
Karrueche Tran and Deion Sanders recently had the internet talking after a casual kitchen moment turned into a conversation about one of Karrueche’s personal lifestyle choices. While the two shared a lighthearted exchange, viewers quickly picked up on the surprising habit that sparked a little back-and-forth between them.
RELATED: Baby Talk? Karrueche Tran & Deion Sanders Fuel Speculation About Having Kids Together (PHOTO)
Karrueche Tran Sparks Debate While Cooking With Deion Sanders
Standing in a luxury kitchen, Karrueche Tran was seen cooking while rocking a brownish-red biking top, white pants decorated with sunflowers, and her hair styled in a middle-part updo. As she leaned over the stove and stirred a pot containing what appeared to be yellow rice inside a glass bowl, Deion Sanders recorded the moment and questioned whether she should just use a microwave instead.
Karrueche Tran Says She’s “One Of Those People”
Karrueche responded with a look at the camera and appeared to shake her head before explaining that she avoids microwaves because she has concerns about radiation. Deion then jokingly asked if she was “one of those people,” and Karrueche agreed, standing by her decision and sharing her perspective on why she chooses not to use one.
Internet Divided Over Lil’ Grandma’s Microwave Stance
Folks quickly made their way to Live Bitez’s Instagram comment section to share their two cents on Karrueche Tran’s microwave stance. While some commenters agreed with her concerns and said she may have a point, others pushed back, joking that the sun gives off more radiation and questioning the level of concern. Meanwhile, a few people admitted they’re shook by how it feels like nothing is seemingly safe nowadays.
One Instagram user @amazing_.t said, “Threw my Microwave out 2015!💯 Bought a Convection oven with built in Air Fryer. The food is always crispy never soggy!”
This Instagram user @mfalme_93 commented, “I used microwave everyday for 40yrs and I don’t have radiation issues 🤷🏽♂️”
Likewise, Instagram user @xogialove added, “She’s completely right I haven’t owned a microwave in years lol”
And, Instagram user @essieland shared, “She’s right I warm up my food in the oven or steam it on the stove top”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @pocholicious claimed, “Nothing is safe nowadays😂😂😂😂”
While Instagram user @armcandiru looked, “I’m the same way 😂”
RELATED: Naw, Dawg! Deion Sanders’ Response To Karrueche Tran’s Hair Disaster Has The Internet In Tears (PHOTO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Kim Kardashian Shares Texts From Late Grandmother MJ
Kim Kardashian seemingly revealed some of the final text messages that her family sent to grandmother Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon days before her death at age 91.
Kardashian, 45, posted a screenshot on Friday, July 17, showing messages from her “Entire OG Family” group chat where she and mom Kris Jenner recently exchanged inspirational Bible passages with Shannon.
Jenner initially paraphrased Psalm 90:17, writing, “Lord our God, may your blessings be with us. Give us success in all we do.”
“Amen,” Shannon replied.

Jenner, 70, texted a verse from Psalm 91:1 on Sunday, July 12, writing, “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find protection in the shadow of the Almighty.”
This time, Shannon replied with a “prayer hands” emoji.
The final exchange was sent by Jenner on Monday, July 13, quoting Isaiah 63:9, “In his love and mercy he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them through all of the years.”
Once again, Shannon responded, “Amen.”
Shannon’s death was initially announced by Jenner via Instagram on Thursday, July 16, weeks before the matriarch’s 92nd birthday.
“Today, we said goodbye to my beautiful Mommy MJ. 😞💔,” Jenner wrote in her emotional tribute. “There are no words that could ever capture what she has meant to me or the heartbreak of having to say goodbye. My mom was the heart of our family. She taught me everything that truly matters … to love your family fiercely, to be kind, to show up for the people you love, and to never take a single moment together for granted. She taught us that family is everything.”
Kardashian broke her silence on Shannon’s death later that day, affectionately referring to her late grandmother as her “best friend, [her] gossip buddy [and her] forever twin.”
“You taught all of us the importance of family, and those values are something we’ll carry with us forever!!!!! You were the woman who showed me what it meant to be a hardworking businesswoman,” she added.
However, Kardashian’s social media activity drew some criticism from her followers in the wake of Shannon’s death. Some called her out for posting a carousel of photos from her and boyfriend Lewis Hamilton’s lake vacation a few minutes after Shannon’s death was announced.
“This post was scheduled a few days ago before we lost MJ, so its timing came right alongside her passing,” she clarified. “I’ve been by my mom and grandma’s side this past week, and my heart is completely with my family right now. We love and miss her so deeply, and in the days ahead, we’ll be focusing on celebrating her beautiful life 🕊️🤍.”
Some fans were equally critical of the reality star’s decision to post a photo of her and Shannon’s bare feet — alongside Khloé Kardashian, Kris and Kylie Jenner — as a tribute to her grandma.
“And for anyone that knows my grandma knows she had the most beautiful feet in the world and she would want everyone to know lol,” Kim clapped back.
Before her death, Shannon was married three times, first to her high school sweetheart for only two months at age 18. She later wed Robert “Bob” Houghton, with whom she shared daughters Kris and Karen Houghton. (Karen died in March 2024 at age 65.)
After divorcing Bob in 1962, MJ was married to third husband Harry Shannon for 40 years until his death in 2003.
Entertainment
75-Year-Old Georgia Woman Shot Distributing Food In Atlanta
A 75-Year-Old Georgia woman was shot while distributing food in an Atlanta community on Wednesday, July 15. The woman was found lying on the ground suffering from a gunshot wound in East Point by a local gas station.
RELATED: Resource Officer Reportedly Removed From Active Duty After Allegedly Tasing 18-Year-Old Student On School Bus In Atlanta (VIDEO)
Woman Hospitalized After Being Shot While Distributing Food In Atlanta Community
According to 11Alive News, the shooting happened near a Chevron gas station on Washington Road off Camp Creek Parkway. The 75-year-old Georgia woman shot was later identified as Dorothy Gordon.
FOX5 Atlanta reports Gordon was distributing food to people in need when gunshots rang out around 9:00 a.m. Gordon was shot and later rushed to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. Her son, Justin Gordon, told WSBTV that his mother is recovering, but she is in pain.
“She’s still in pain, but she is not as much pain as she was yesterday,” he said, later adding, “Nobody sane would shoot at nine o’clock in the morning. So it’s gotta be somebody way out just shooting at somebody.”
The Bullet Just Missed Gordon’s Spine
The bullet reportedly just missed Gordon’s spine, and on Thursday, Justin said that the bullet still needed to be removed. He added that surgeons wanted her pain to subside before operating on her.
“They still got to get the bullet out,” Justin Gordon said. “When I talked to her yesterday, she said it’s a good thing it didn’t hit her in the chest because it would have been fatal.”
“People who she was trying to help, they was mad too because all she was trying to do is help people,” he added.
Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta Offering A Reward
At this time, detectives do not know who shot Gordon and they have reported no suspects. However, the police say that several people were nearby when the shooting occurred and could have seen the shooting.
The authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta. In addition, 11Alive reporter Cody Alcorn noted on X and Facebook that an up to $5000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest.
“Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta offering a reward of up to $5,000 for info leading to an arrest in shooting 75-year-old Dorothy Gordon, a woman who was wounded while distributing food to people in need in East Point. Senseless!”
Tips may be anonymous, and people with information are encouraged to call 404-577-TIPS (8477) or texting CSGA to 738477.
RELATED: Prayers Up! Teen Couple Arrested After Allegedly Killing 5 Of Girlfriend’s Family Members In Shooting Spree In Illinois
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Latto Responds After Troll Criticizes Her Daughter’s Private Jet Trip
Latto might be in her Big Mama, one-kid era, but that’s not stopping her from clocking the shade — especially when it comes to her daughter. When a social media user tried to come for her baby girl’s lifestyle, the rapper didn’t waste any time checking them for speaking on her child.
RELATED: Beach Babes! Latto & Her Daughter Melt Hearts With Tropical Twinning Vibes In Matching Burberry ‘Fits (PHOTOS)
Latto Gives Troll Quick Reminder About Her Baby Girl
Recently, Latto hopped on X (formerly Twitter) and shared a video of her pushing her daughter in a stroller as they seemingly prepared to hop on a private jet. While some fans loved seeing Latto fully embracing mom life, other folks had something to say about her parenting choices. When one troll commented, “No amount of money would allow me to put my newborn on a plane. I struggle with ear pops as a grown man.” Big Mama didn’t miss the comment at all, she quickly slid in with “Good thing this not yo child b***h boy.”
Fans Applaud Latto’s Response After Troll Questions Her Parenting Choices
After The Shade Room shared Latto’s response, plenty of fans flooded the comment section to defend her. Plenty of folks said people need to stay out of celebrities business and leave Big Mama alone.
Instagram user @jordynchristel wrote, “Mind you regular people fly with their babies everyday😂😂😂”
Instagram user @lexizjinx wrote, “Cause why did he need to say that.”
While Instagram user @silesoy_ wrote, “Y’all get on here saying anything omg lol.”
Then Instagram user @emilycandylillian_morgan wrote, “Cause why was that his business 🙄🫣”
Another Instagram user @queen_kaylou wrote, “How does he know she didn’t have noise canceling headphones on the baby?”
Instagram user @makaelaspencer wrote, “She’s always attacked on the internet, and I never see her let it really get to her the way it does most people. I love her. True Capricorn energy ♑️”
Then another Instagram user @nolimitchamberlain wrote, “She right. Mind your own business.”
While another Instagram user @makyamade_ wrote, “i want ya to leave these celebrities alone 😂”
Finally, Instagram user @trezellragas wrote, “She said what she said.”
Big Mama & Lil Mama Previously Went Viral For Their Sweet Moments
Even though a little shade tried to enter Big Mama and Lil’ Mama’s mommy-daughter moment, Latto and her baby girl still had the internet melting. Latto had fans gushing after she shared adorable flicks on Instagram showing them twinning in Burberry swimsuits while soaking up some beach time. Swipe below to see the cute photos.
RELATED: Latto Reveals Who Her Daughter Looks Like & The One Thing That Surprised Her About Motherhood (VIDEO)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
Jason Statham’s Greatest Sequel Is A Streaming Hit On Netflix
By Jonathan Klotz
| Updated

Jason Statham managed to carve out a niche for himself in Hollywood as the king of the B-movie. His action movies have been reliable hits for over 20 years, and yet, two of his largest successes have come when he’s left behind the martial arts action of everyday guy who is secretly a world-renowned assassin. Turns out, Statham versus a giant shark is where the real money’s been this whole time. 2023’s Meg 2: The Trench which features not only a multiple giant prehistoric monster sharks but a massive octopus is now a streaming hit on Netflix.
New Meg, Same Chum

The first film, 2018’s The Meg, was our introduction to Statham’s greatest character yet, Jonas Taylor, rescue diver. He doesn’t get to roundhouse kick a bunch of hapless goons, instead opting for stabbing a giant shark in the eyeball. Meg 2: The Trench fixes that problem by giving plenty of evil mercenaries for Statham to karate chop. It also includes gigantic prehistoric shark mating rituals.
Set five years after the first film, Meg 2 now has Taylor helping to combat eco-terrorists and criminals, while back at the Mana One base, the team is studying Haiqi, a juvenile Meg who has grown up in captivity. From the beginning, you can’t think too hard about the plot. When Taylor leads the team back down through the thermocline at the bottom of the Mariana Trench from the original and there’s an entire illegal mining operation complete, don’t ask yourself “How did they build this?” It’s not that kind of movie.
As with the first film, Meg 2 comes down to the gigantic shark terrorizing unsuspecting vacationers and only Jason Statham can stop it. If you’re wondering, “how is that water deep enough for a 75-foot shark” then you’re still thinking too hard. Stop that.
Mo’ Meg Mo’ Problems

What you will notice between both films is there’s a lot of Chinese actors on camera. Both movies were co-financed by China, and as a result, were megahits in the country. Meg was during the tailend of the period where Hollywood was shoehorning in scenes for Chinese edits as a way to appeal more to the country. Meg 2 came long after the trend died, but it was still a success, with over $300 million of its total $397 million coming from overseas markets.
The Meg and Meg 2 are both adaptations of novels by Steve Alten, though they make some significant changes from the source material. For starters, Meg 2 spends a lot more time out of the Trench, there’s fewer sharks, and since Li Bingbing didn’t come back for the sequel, everything meant for Jonas’ wife went to her brother, Jiuming (Wu Jing) instead. One new villain, the gigantic crocodile-like reptiles the kronosaurs, were written out completely, likely for inclusion in the third movie.
A third Meg movie, adapting the next novel, seems like a no-brainer. Warner Bros. hasn’t given it the greenlight and Statham has been busy on a sequel to The Beekeeper. Not only have both of the “Jason Statham asserts dominance over giant prehistoric shark” movies been box office successes, but even on stream, both have become perennial hits always lurking right outside of the top ten, if not on it, no matter the streaming platform.
Meg 2: The Trench is now available on Netflix.
Entertainment
Queen Naija Clears The Air With Clarence & DreamDoll (VIDEOS)
Queen Naija, Clarence NYC, and DreamDoll have the timeline buzzing following a situation at Kai Cenat’s Streamer University. The chatter started after Queen confronted Clarence about being in DreamDoll’s room. As clips spread across social media, viewers quickly shared their opinions, causing even more discussion surrounding the viral moment. As the criticism continued, Queen later sat down with Clarence before meeting with DreamDoll to officially clear the air.
RELATED: Whew! Queen Naija Reacts After Fans Peep Clarence In DreamDoll’s Dorm At Streamer University (VIDEOS)
Queen Naija & Clarence Speak On The The Viral DreamDoll Moment
Clarence and Queen sat down in their own dorm after a viral clip showed her confronting him about being in DreamDoll and Jordyn Lucas’ room. Clarence pointed out that he’s encouraged Queen to network with male creators, including doing a song with PlaqueBoyMax. He admitted he understands the influence the chat has on Queen but said her reaction also affected how the situation was perceived.
“You know damn well you didn’t care. But they don’t know, so the clip is just taken out of context. You get to run around here, shoot water guns, doing what you want. But when I want to do what I want to do. It’s disturbing. They be on my d***,” Clarence said.
Clarence admitted the moment left him discouraged from collaborating with other creators and argued there’s a double standard surrounding his interactions. He stressed that, despite knowing moments would get clipped online, he came to Streamer University to network and collaborate with fellow creators.
The pair also discussed another situation when Clarence helped a female student find directions around campus during a stream. In the moment, Queen’s chat alerted her about the interaction, and she reacted by saying the young woman was standing too close. That reaction led many viewers to flood Clarence’s chat, making the situation awkward. Clarence later reassured Queen, “I’m still going home after these five days of Streamer U. I’m going home to you.” Queen stood by her reactions, explaining it’s difficult not to respond when her chat constantly brings situations to her attention.
DreamDoll & Queen Naija Clear The Air During Streamer University Bible Study
Following Queen Naija’s sit-down with Clarence, she headed to Bible study at Streamer University. Fellow students gathered as they spoke about their faith and their spiritual journeys. Queen also took the opportunity to clear the air with DreamDoll following the discussion surrounding Clarence being in her dorm. DreamDoll admitted she initially felt Queen may have been “clip farming” during the viral moment when she confronted Clarence. Queen explained her reaction was genuine and made it clear she has no issues with DreamDoll or Jordyn Lucas. She revealed that, before the incident, she and DreamDoll had already shared a heartfelt moment together and felt the enemy was trying to create chaos and division between them. The two ended the conversation with a hug, reassuring everyone there is no beef between them.
Social Media Reacts
Folks across the timeline reacted to the viral clips involving Queen Naija over in The Shade Room Teens comment section. While some felt her reaction was justified, others believed Clarence didn’t do anything wrong. Some viewers felt the couple should’ve discussed boundaries before attending Streamer University.
Instagram user @thatss.she wrote, “He too nonchalant for me. He could’ve apologized to her for not communicating he was going to be somewhere that would’ve made her a lil uncomfortable and that would’ve ended all that talking he did to defend the situation. 🤦🏾♀️ “
Instagram user @luvluvnani added, “”He should know by now what makes her uncomfortable and what doesn’t and it’s not always abt your intentions it’s abt perception and just having that awareness”
While Instagram user @bye.demi wrote, “Her reaction was normal ME PERSONALLY I WOULD’VE BEEN WORSE 😂😂😂😂”
Instagram user @alyssa_sq wrote, “Unless y’all been watching the whole stream…. Don’t even say anything bc tbh i love queen but Clarence wasn’t wrong for his feelings… this thing got blown way out of proportion. Give them grace it’s not easy them putting the business on the front line”
Instagram user @mswest2u_ added. “I’m sorry but Queen is the problem. I’ve been on stream since they started and Clarence wasn’t doing nothing at all. And bffr…. Dream don’t want no Clarence. Streamer U is for them to collab with others and build their communities. Queen knew what was up before she step on the campus”
While Instagram user @ameretirek wrote, “And just like that SU looking like Love & HipHop”
Instagram user @siidnneyym wrote, “She gives mean girl. And I don’t think Queen bugging she’s so genuine and nice and everybody don’t deserve that she ain’t have to explain nothing to her.”
Instagram user @_naturalafrolatina added, “Y’all doing too much DreamDoll didn’t do nothing wrong SHE WAS IN HER ROOM TF STREAMING! Queen should go home with her man”
While Instagram user @kiyahbaby_ wrote, “Finally y’all posted this! I loved Queen approach to this but absolutely hated Dreamdoll response… like after that very great bible study/fellowship, I just thought she would’ve been way more receptive to this smh 🤦🏾♀️ but i guess some ppl just don’t understand how/when to give grace, unfortunately.”
RELATED: Queen Naija & ClarenceNYC’s Son Legend Shows Off His Math Skills During Kai Cenat’s Streamer University Auditions (WATCH)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
7 Years Later, Octavia Spencer Officially Confirms the Status of Her Cult Classic Thriller
Blumhouse has built plenty of franchises from opening-weekend success, but this sequel (in development) exists because a modest 2019 thriller became much larger after leaving theaters. The original film was made for roughly $5 million and went on to rake in $61.2 million worldwide, already making it highly profitable, then found a second audience during the pandemic through repeated streaming-chart appearances.
The first film appeared to close its story decisively. Sue Ann Ellington’s (Octavia Spencer) revenge campaign ends with the house burning around her, so bringing the character back in the sequel requires more than simply repeating another group of teenagers, another basement, and the same manipulation. The sequel’s challenge is to preserve the mix of psychological damage, social humiliation, camp, and sudden violence that made the original so replayable while explaining how Sue Ann returns and what could push her into a second campaign.
The movie is Ma 2, and Spencer, in an interview with ScreenRant, says the team is “working very diligently” on the screenplay because they want to “do it right.” Spencer is officially returning as Sue Ann, while Ashley Nicole Black is writing the sequel. Blumhouse CEO Jason Blum previously confirmed that the company viewed the original’s streaming success and meme-driven popularity as proof that the character had become a genuine cultural phenomenon.
‘Ma’ Became a Meme Through Poster Parodies, Quotes, and Octavia Spencer Herself
The meme culture around Ma was built from the film’s unusually adaptable title and Sue Ann’s most theatrical moments. Fans began editing her into awards-season posters and famous movie titles, producing jokes such as Ma Ma Land, Roma, Ma Star Is Born, The Irishma, The Greatest Show Ma, and Mad Ma: Fury Road. Other posts reused Spencer peering through a car window, her strict basement rules, and the instantly recognizable line, “Don’t make me drink alone.” The trend became large enough that Spencer herself reposted fan creations, promoted the #MaMemes tag, and launched a contest for the best entry.
It appears all that has synergized toward this sequel that’s now in development. There are no further updates or a release date for Ma 2 for now. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
- Release Date
-
May 31, 2019
- Runtime
-
102 minutes
Entertainment
The 70s Sci-Fi Cult Classic Student Film That Accidentally Created A Massive Franchise
By Jonathan Klotz
| Published

John Carpenter is known today as the Master of Horror, but he got his start with Dark Star, an offbeat sci-fi comedy that started as a student film while he attended the University of Southern California. He also happened to be friends with Dan O’Bannon, who helped him write the script for the film. While Carpenter would go on to make Halloween and The Thing, O’Bannon was inspired by the reaction to their low-budget sci-fi comedy to write a sci-fi horror that you might know: Alien.
Dark Star may be a cult classic today, but when it was upgraded from student film to feature film and released in 1974, audiences had no idea what they were watching, and most of the humor was missed. O’Bannon noticed this and shared his thought process in later interviews, “If I can’t make them laugh, then maybe I can make them scream.”

Once it was available on VHS, the film found its audience, including Quentin Tarantino, the creator of the Metal Gear games, Hideo Kojima, and Doug Naylor, the creator of Red Dwarf. Fittingly given Carpenter’s musical talents, multiple bands have used voice samples or paid tribute to the film in their songs.
Cabin Fever INNNN SPACEEEEEE!!!
The connections between Dark Star and Alien are apparent from the very beginning, with both films taking place on ramshackle spaceships that share the same retro-futuristic style, and the crews are composed of characters that don’t fit into the typical sci-fi hero mold. Dark Star, as a parody of 2001: A Space Odyssey, cranks the crew’s personalities to 11, which somehow works. As a result, it feels like frat bros trapped in space together, and they don’t get along, but they have to.

The crew’s mission is to find potentially dangerous planets and blow them up, but the catch is that after a massive malfunction, a thermostellar bomb develops a personality and tries to blow up ahead of schedule. The captain of the Dark Star, a former surfer, has to talk the bomb into not blowing up.
It’s a fantastic parody of sci-fi that engages in deep philosophy, and was purposely designed to be a parody of HAL. That’s part of the humor that O’Bannon was frustrated with, which went over the head of the audience, but it’s the bizarre beach ball alien that became the proto-Xenomorph.
The Comedy Routine That Became Alien

Working under tight budget restrictions, the alien in Dark Star is a painted beach ball with floppy claws loosely attached to it. Sergeant Pinback, played by O’Bannon, tries to keep the alien contained in a storage room, but it keeps escaping and attempts to murder him, and eventually, Pinback accidentally causes it to pop and explode. The entire sequence, played here for laughs with some absurd physical humor, is what directly inspired Alien.
Replacing the adorable but slightly murderous prankster beach ball with the H. R Giger design of the terrifying, very murderous Xenomorph but maintaining the similar setting and feeling of claustrophobia provided the recipe for a genre-defining hit. Dark Star, it should be noted, is also rated “G,” which gives you an idea as to the level of physical humor that O’Bannon brought to his role. Yet, given how the film ends, it’s only suitable for kids if you want to inflict a NeverEnding Story level of trauma on them.

If you’ve never seen Dark Star, it is well worth your time, even today, because it’s an absolutely bonkers take on sci-fi that nails the exact tone they wanted. It’s streaming for free on Tubi, Pluto TV, YouTube, and Plex, and is also part of Amazon Prime.
Entertainment
Spectacular Smith Blasts Southwest Airlines After Heated Incident
Whew! Spectacular Smith is making it clear that he isn’t letting a recent airport encounter go quietly. The Pretty Ricky member is speaking out following a tense moment with a Southwest Airlines employee at Ontario International Airport. He alleges the encounter left him feeling disrespected and fans aren’t sure how to feel.
RELATED: Whew! Social Media Users Are Weighing IN After Willie Taylor Said Day 26 Would Have “Smoked” Pretty Ricky & B2K In Verzuz (VIDEOS)
Spectacular Smith Shares His Side Of Southwest Airlines Dispute
In a video shared to his Instagram, Spectacular Smith documented an interaction with a male Southwest Airlines gate agent he identified as Erick Edwards. In the clip, the gate agent can be seen standing near the jetway entrance. Meanwhile, Spectacular repeatedly asks, “What are you doing?” before the door is closed. The agent then directed him to speak with additional employees at another counter. Spectacular also asked to speak with a supervisor about the situation.
According to Smith, the disagreement started over Southwest Airlines’ carry-on policy involving his pillow and blanket. The rapper explained that he regularly travels with both items. He said he was unaware they would count as separate carry-on belongings since he rarely flies with the airline. He said he was willing to check the items and followed instructions, but believes the situation escalated unnecessarily afterward.
Spectacular Demands Respect After Tense Airport Moment
Spectacular later shared more details about the encounter, claiming the gate agent became confrontational and allegedly got inches from his face while allegedly balling up his fist, which made him feel threatened. He said he activated the recording feature on his Meta Glasses to capture what was happening and called out Southwest Airlines for what he described as unacceptable customer service.
While Spectacular acknowledged that misunderstanding the airline’s carry-on rules was his mistake, he said his issue was never with the policy itself. Instead, he emphasized that his concern was how he says he was treated. Especially, after complying with employees instructions. He said the interaction became unnecessarily disrespectful. Spectacular also called for accountability. He added that passengers should be treated with professionalism and respect, even when they make a mistake.
Not The Comments Bringing B2K Into This
Fans quickly jumped in TSR’s Instagram comment section and ran it UP with their reactions to Spectacular Smith’s airport encounter. While some commenters questioned, “What do you expect from Southwest Airlines?” others pointed out that the rapper did appear to look late for his flight. Meanwhile, a few people felt the gate agent was taking his job wayyyy too seriously.
One Instagram user @willgetzitin said, “Some people take their job too serious”
This Instagram user @tayehydermua added, “a blanket and pillow have never been considered as carry ons when i fly southwest.”
And, Instagram user @aspence615_ commented, “You look like you was late fam lol”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @marcus2braids claimed, “B2k put that hiittt out on my bro 😂”
While Instagram user @wopokee shared, “Omarion got something to do with this, I can’t prove it yet, but I know he do”
Lastly, Instagram user @shes_winning_ said, “It’s southwest y’all be expecting private jet experiences, high and experiences on low funded as air flight. I mean, I’m confused at where y’all confused.”
RELATED: Social Media Goes Off Over B2K And Pretty Ricky Verzuz As The TL Brings All The Smoke (VIDEOS)
What Do You Think Roomies?
Entertainment
New Footage Shows Milania Giudice Smiling Following Arrest
Milania Giudice’s domestic violence case continues to draw attention after newly released police dashcam footage appeared to capture the reality star’s daughter laughing and smiling while being transported to jail following her arrest earlier this year.
The footage arrives as the 20-year-old University of Tampa student prepares to return to court in August, where she will continue fighting a simple assault charge stemming from an alleged domestic dispute at the New Jersey home of her mother, Teresa Giudice, and stepfather, Luis “Louie” Ruelas.
Video obtained by Page Six from the Montville Police Department shows officers placing a handcuffed Milania into the back of a police vehicle after her May 14 arrest.
As an officer fastens her seatbelt, Milania appears to scoff while speaking before looking toward the open door and briefly laughing. The footage then shows her turning forward with what appears to be a smile on her face.
Additional dashcam video reportedly captured activity outside Teresa Giudice and Ruelas’ New Jersey residence, though portions of the footage were heavily redacted.
Milania was ultimately transported to Montville Township Police Department headquarters, where she was booked on one count of simple assault before being released pending further court proceedings.
What The Charge Could Mean Under New Jersey Law

While the newly released footage has generated headlines, the more significant issue for Milania remains the legal case itself.
According to allegations outlined during her arraignment, prosecutors claim Milania “knowingly caused bodily injury” to an individual identified as “LR” by allegedly striking the person in the forehead during a domestic dispute.
The judge informed Milania that a conviction could carry penalties that include up to six months in jail, probation, and financial penalties exceeding $500. Court records show that Milania has pleaded not guilty and is expected back in court later this summer.
Police Report Revealed Details Of The Family Dispute

Additional details emerged through the police report connected to the incident. According to the report, officers were called to the home after Gabriella Giudice, Milania’s older sister, contacted 911 and reported that her sister was allegedly “acting erratically.”
The report also stated that Milania was allegedly throwing food and candles during the dispute. Authorities noted that no weapons were involved in the incident. While the judge later referenced redness on the alleged victim’s forehead during the arraignment, police documentation reportedly indicated that no injuries were initially reported at the scene.
Milania Giudice Previously Addressed Her Arrest On TikTok
Although she has not publicly commented on the newly released dashcam footage or the allegations discussed during her arraignment, Milania previously spoke about her arrest during a TikTok video posted on June 29.
In the video, she pushed back against an alleged fake mugshot circulating online, claiming it had been created using artificial intelligence. “I ate down in my mugshot. I looked fire. I mean, nothing to be proud of, but I made sure of that,” she joked.
Milania also acknowledged she was struggling personally around the time of the incident. “It is what it is. Sh-t happens in life. It is what it is. You gotta learn from it and just become a better person and talk about it,” she said.
The reality TV daughter added that she was “not in a good area” of her life at the time and suggested followers did not know the full story behind what occurred.
The Incident Adds To A Family Already Familiar With Public Legal Battles

Milania is one of four daughters shared by Teresa Giudice and her ex-husband, Joe Giudice, whose legal troubles became a major storyline during their time on “The Real Housewives of New Jersey.” The former couple served prison sentences related to federal fraud convictions before finalizing their divorce in 2020.
Teresa later married Ruelas in 2022, blending their families and bringing additional attention to the household where the May incident allegedly occurred.
For now, the focus remains on Milania’s upcoming court appearance, where the case will continue, and a judge will determine whether the allegations against her warrant further penalties under New Jersey law.
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