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Venton Jones Apologizes Over Chris Brown’s Recognition
On the same day Chris Brown expressed gratitude for his congressional recognition, the man who signed it issued an apology. Texas State Rep. Venton Jones released a statement following days of fiery backlash over the honor, particularly against Jasmine Crockett. The U.S. rep joined Venton on stage in Arlington, Texas, to present Chris and Usher with the recognition. Tuesday, Breezy thanked Crockett and Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, while Venton Jones apologized to his constituents, including women and survivors of abuse, for any harm the recognition may have caused.
RELATED: Chris Brown Thanks Jasmine Crockett & Dallas Mayor Following Congressional Record Recognition Amid Divided Reactions
Venton Jones Apologizes To DV & Sexual Abuse Survivors
The Texas State Rep. spoke out on social media about his participation in honoring Chris Brown and Usher. On Instagram, it appears Venton shared his written statement nearly 12 hours after Breezy boasted about the recognition on Instagram. The singer showed a close-up of the plaque presented to him by Jasmine Crockett and Jones, which he also signed. “This means so much to me,” Chris Brown said in his caption.
On that Arlington stage, Venton appeared to be all smiles as Jasmine thanked the R&B singers for their contributions to music and culture. But in his statement on Tuesday, Jones appeared to carry a serious tone. He admitted to spending the last few days taking in conversations, concerns and feedback about the recognition for Brown specifically. As we’ve previously reported, the honor sparked a deep divide online, landing Crockett especially in the hot seat over Breezy’s history of violent behavior.
“…I want to acknowledge the women, the Black women, whom my actions have hurt. In moments like these, I think it’s important to be specific and just as loud with an apology as our original actions were. I apologize,” Venton Jones wrote. Adding, “You are the backbone of our community, our families and our democracy. Far too often, we continue to ask that you carry the heaviest burdens, lead our fights and navigate spaces where your safety and your lived realities are sidelined. My decision was another moment that perpetuated this.”
In the continued statement, Venton Jones shared that he’s a survivor of both sexual violence and domestic abuse whose work has centered on women and survivors. He admitted that with his experience, more is required of him.
“My work and experience do not absolve me of accountability; and to be another person who, yet again, asks for your forgiveness is another layer on top,” Jones said.
Additionally, he spoke directly to the constituents of House District 100, whom he represents, and every survivor of domestic and sexual violence. “I extend my sincerest apology for the hurt, frustration and pain my choices caused. Your trust and support are invaluable to me and I never take lightly how my decisions impact you,” Jones said.
Texas State Rep Explains Intention Behind Recognition
In the last two paragraphs of his statement, Venton Jones clarified what his and Jasmine Crockett’s goals were regarding the congressional recognition. He viewed it as giving Usher and Chris Brown acknowledgment for their musical careers. Also, the Texas State Rep saw “the opportunity to reach thousands of everyday people, voters and non-voters, exactly where they are.” Moreover, they saw it as a chance to share the “critical importance of turning out to vote” for the midterm elections in November.
“In that same breath, that message was not communicated to you. Thus, the impact extended beyond its original intent. The work of mobilizing our people for the 2026 Midterm General Election, Tuesday, November 3, continues,” Venton Jones wrote.
Also, he promised to continue carrying out the recent conversations and working tirelessly on his constituents’ behalf. Meanwhile, in his caption, Jones wrote: “I have been listening and reflecting. I see you and hear you. Please accept my remarks in response. I remain transparent and committed to House District 100, the Dallas community, and Texas, and will allow the work of the Office to continue reflecting that. Texans, please remember the last day to register to vote is Monday, October 5th.”
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There have seemingly been other people in Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker’s marriage, at least according to him.
The media personality’s estranged husband has shared some fresh truths about their defunct union and the unconventional ways they kept things rolling in the bedroom.
Todd Tucker and Kandi Burruss finalized their divorce in March, had a recent heated exchange online, but have continued to co-parent their two children, with either party retaining the right not to pay child support.
The 53-year-old in the trailer for his upcoming film “Til Divorce Do Us Part” got into a brief discussion with his pal and “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” alum Peter Thomas about lingering news about the marriage.
Thomas had asked if it was actually true that Tucker and Burruss invited other people into their bedroom, which the former confirmed and stated, “We did. I would say most of our marriages we did.”
In the Instagram clip, the response from Tucker prompted Thomas to make a joke about being a saint in his failed marriage to Cynthia Bailey compared to Burruss and Tucker.
The conversation was sandwiched in between several clips of Tucker having conversations with various people about moving on post-divorce. He rounded up his post with the caption:
“Oh, y’all thought @apollonida03 wasn’t down?! @peterthomasrhoa @dennismckinley@ralphpittmanjr and you know my guy Marc is down. Who else do y’all want? Fellas, it’s our time. Get your tickets at Dontbringyourmantoatlanta.com or click the link in my bio.”
As shared by Us Weekly, Tucker, in an earlier post about the project earlier in the month, had declared that he was inspired to share his post-divorce journey as a means to educate people.
He noted that divorce is never easy, and he made so many mistakes along the way, although he never pictured the outcome being that he would be separated from his partner.
Fans Buzz With Excitement Over The Production Manager’s Project
Tucker’s Instagram comment section passed the vibe check as over 3k fans and followers left their thoughts about his latest creative endeavor. “Well, the scheme has finally arisen. I’m not mad at the concept,” this Instagram user wrote.
Another fan described the film as a revenge tour spearheaded by Tucker alongside the former husbands of some of these Bravo superstars. “I’m sat!! Todd literally knows what it takes to produce reality TV, so this should be good,” this fan noted.
More commenters promised to watch the film because it would be entertaining, going by Tucker’s track record and ability to reel out unique content. This fan added, “You know what… y’all might be on to something…a show about the ex-husbands and their new journey from the man’s perspective. We don’t see that often or hardly ever.”
In April, the couple uncovered another rocky path in the post-divorce interaction after Tucker broke his silence after Burruss’ mother reportedly threw subtle shade at him.
As shared by The Blast, during the promotion of her upcoming show, “I Do. I Did. I’m Done,” Burruss shared an Instagram video of Mama Joyce humming “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
While promoting her upcoming show “I Do. I Did. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” Mama Joyce sang in a video on Instagram as she shared the message “I’m Done.” The clip then flashed back to an infamous “Real Housewives of Atlanta” moment in which Mama Joyce used the song to take a jab at Tucker.
Tucker quickly responded in the comments, sarcastically suggesting that Burruss and her family would keep using him for publicity despite once painting him as the opportunist.
Burruss told him to stop acting like a victim, prompting Tucker to fire back that since their relationship had been used for entertainment from the beginning, they might as well capitalize on its ending too.
The exchange sparked plenty of reactions on Reddit, as some fans questioned why the pair were still publicly trading shots after their split. In contrast, others joked that Mama Joyce must feel vindicated after years of criticizing Tucker.
One other commenter called Burruss out for using too much of her personal life as content, while one supported Joyce’s old claim that Tucker had been opportunistic from the beginning.
The Reality Star Teased Her Ex-Husband About One Of His New Routines
Last month, the songwriter revealed that she and Tucker have tried working past their issues and focusing on co-parenting as friends with the best interest of their kids at the center.
As reported by The Blast, Burruss analyzed the situation when he appeared on “The Rickey Smiley Morning Show” in August to promote her one-woman show.
She emphasized that people have misinterpreted a smooth interaction between them as a sign of them getting back together, especially after a family vacation in July.
In a clip shared from the trip, Burruss had playfully teased Tucker for reading a book about daily prayers for men, especially after she recalled him not reading anything similar while they were married.
Burruss also used the interview to clear up reports about their divorce settlement, after Da Brat referenced claims that Tucker received part of Burruss’ premarital wealth. The media personality rejected such claims and explained that they only divided assets they acquired together, including jointly purchased properties.
The songwriter established that anything that belonged to her and was acquired in her name, whether before or during their marriage, remained solely hers.
Inside Todd Tucker And Kandi Burruss’ Divorce Settlement
In March, the former couple signed the dotted line on the final phase of their divorce battle with a six-figure settlement from the songwriter to her ex alongside an agreement over their kids and assets.
In the final document, the former couple agreed not to pay child or spousal support, but will have joint legal and physical custody of their two children. Burruss gained permission to keep the children’s passports, but was ordered to make them available upon request if they are needed for international trips.
The former partners also got to keep their individual collections of luxury cars, including Burruss’ Bentley, Cadillac Escalade, Porsche Cayenne, and a 1963 Chevrolet Camaro.
As for Tucker, his Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon, Porsche 911, Range Rover, and Ford Bronco also stayed in his loft. Burruss and his former wife also disposed of their shared food truck, sold their shared home, and split up their saved credit card points.
Finally, the television star, who previously slammed Tucker for failing to support their children financially, was ordered to pay Tucker $426,000 as part of the settlement. In contrast, Tucker paid her $38,000 to settle his share of their Atlanta Hawks season tickets.
Is Todd Tucker setting the stage for more bombshell information about Kandi Burruss once the film airs?
One of the best things about Interstellar is the way Christopher Nolan blends enormous space-set spectacle with a grounded approach to physics and human emotion. The sets, CGI, and spectacular performances from Anne Hathaway and Matthew McConaughey all helped make it one of the defining sci-fi movies of the 21st century. But if its 2-hour-49-minute runtime still leaves you wanting more, there is a six-season sci-fi epic that scratches a very similar itch: The Expanse.
The bold sci-fi series follows numerous characters as they navigate a dangerous future in which humanity has spread across the solar system, Earth and Mars are locked in a cold war, and an entire population of people called “Belters” struggle for basic resources while living and working throughout the asteroid belt. From the outset, with a Star Wars-style text on the screen, The Expanse throws audiences into its heavily futuristic world, yet its politics, class divisions and human flaws remain strikingly grounded. By creating stunning visuals with both CGI and practical sets, alongside a dark exploration of capitalism and exploitation, The Expanse is exactly the kind of epic sci-fi binge Interstellar fans should seek out.
‘The Expanse’s Attention to Detail Enhances the Sci-Fi Elements of the World
Great science fiction makes even its most futuristic ideas feel tangible, and The Expanse excels in this area, especially with how it introduces technology through active use before explaining exactly how it works. For example, we see James (Steven Strait), who becomes heavily involved in the Cold War between Earth and Mars while trying to keep a low profile after his ship is mysteriously attacked, injected in the neck with a milky fluid before the ship he’s in does a flip in space to change direction. At first, it’s clear it’s something they use when turning. But we don’t fully understand its significance until an OPA prisoner of the UN refuses the injection, killing himself in a statement of suicide. Moreover, it’s explained to us that this injection allows humans to survive “hard gravity” by Chrisjen (Shohreh Aghdashloo), who was in charge of the prisoner.
We get a similar moment when James crushes a pill into liquid and drinks it, and we are later told this is a substitute for coffee. What it does is allow us to experience the world before information is thrown at us. By also linking such technology to real-world things such as how we may feel gravity during flight or driving, or coffee, we can see how humanity has evolved in a linear fashion, rather than having to fathom something wholly new.
The politics of this world are given a similar treatment. While the scale of conflicts may be on an interplanetary level, the maneuvers different political actors take as well as the stakes feel very grounded and familiar to our world. The Belters on Ceres are clear stand-ins for people in our world who are trapped in a cycle of exploitation, and the OPA terrorists show how such dissatisfaction with the status quo can push the public to support extremist groups, especially when things such as water are limited. We also see how such a growth in ability has not made humans better.
There are huge levels of corruption in Miller’s (Thomas Jane) police organization, which makes his job (which includes finding a rich man’s daughter who is far more significant than he first thinks) far harder. Yet, Miller himself is also one to bend the rules when it suits him. It is clear that such advances won’t automatically fix issues in humanity’s moral makeup, but will simply provide different settings for such issues.
‘The Expanse’ Mixes CGI and Practical Effects in an Effective and Gripping Way
CGI on television is certainly not guaranteed to be the spectacle it is usually on the big screen. Due to typically smaller budgets and less time in between seasons on average, it is not normal for a sci-fi series to look as good as The Expanse does. It may not rival Interstellar‘s iconic depictions of black holes and strange planets, but shots such as the Canterbury flipping its boosters to change direction and subtle effects like Miller’s interplanetary map that shows Julie Mao’s (Florence Faivre) previous movements seamlessly integrate with the rest of the show. The former example conveys the spectacle such an epic narrative should, and the latter is another example of The Expanse making every second of screentime fascinating to watch.
However, these CGI achievements are perhaps surpassed by the range and creativity of practical sets which The Expanse uses to make the mise en scène feel encompassing and add a depth of context to the world the characters inhabit. From the Blade Runner-esque streets of Ceres which feel incredibly steampunk, to claustrophobic ship interiors, to the luxurious events and houses we see Chrisjen attend and enjoy, these sets portray the difference in class between different factions, characters, and even planets. In doing so, much of the subtext is communicated via visual means and does a lot of heavy lifting so that the character dynamics feel clear.
There is so much that can go wrong when such a high-concept genre is brought to TV, yet The Expanse succeeds in crafting a lived-in and thorough galaxy that is exploding with themes that can be seen as explorations of issues in our own world. With each character going through their own journey that has stakes as high as stopping a galaxy-wide war, The Expanse turns that attention to detail into one of the most immersive sci-fi worlds on television.
- Release Date
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2015 – 2022-00-00
- Network
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SyFy, Prime Video
- Showrunner
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Naren Shankar, Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby
- Directors
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Breck Eisner, Jeff Woolnough, David Grossman, Kenneth Fink, Rob Lieberman, Terry McDonough, Thor Freudenthal, Bill Johnson, David Petrarca, Jennifer Phang, Mikael Salomon, Sarah Harding, Marisol Adler, Anya Adams, Nick Gomez, Simon Cellan Jones
- Writers
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Georgia Lee, Robin Veith, Hallie Lambert, Matthew Rasmussen, Ty Franck, Naren Shankar, Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby, Daniel Abraham, Dan Nowak
Since the first book’s release in 2008, audiences have been captivated by the world of The Hunger Games. Katniss Everdeen‘s fight against the tyrannical Capitol has earned the franchise a strong and expansive fanbase. In recent years, The Hunger Games author Suzanne Collins has released additional novels focusing on key characters and their backstories. From the powerful President Snow to the haunted Haymitch Abernathy, new light is being shed on these characters and Panem’s history is explored on a further level.
With Sunrise on the Reaping set to release on November 20th, fans are eager to see what other prequels Collins might publish next. Throughout the fictional country’s long and bloody history, there are many characters that a third prequel story could focus on. Whether its a new character or a fan favorite, audiences can trust that The Hunger Games will deliver a painful and fascinating story.
5
The First Victor
The Hunger Games have existed for 75 years in the world of Panem. Audiences have seen the 10th, 74th, 75th, and soon, the 50th Games, but the earliest Games have not been explored. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes went back to the 10th Games with Coriolanus Snow (Tom Blyth) and Lucy Gray Baird (Rachel Zegler), but little information was given about the 1st Game. A prequel surrounding the first Hunger Games held by the Capitol would set the stage for the next 75 years. Following the story of the first Victor would give further context to the war-torn years in Panem and the legacy that would be the Capitol’s Games.
4
Cashmere and Gloss
Catching Fire introduced a cast of past Victors to compete in the 75th Quarter Quell. Among those Victors were a brother and sister from District 1, Cashmere and Gloss. So far, there have not been any narrators outside of District 12 and the Capitol. It would be interesting to see what life in District 1 would be like, especially through the eyes of a sibling duo. Little is known about the deadly brother and sister, played by Stephanie Leigh Schuland and Alan Ritchson, giving a prequel about their lives a lot of creative leeway. As they are fated to die in the 75th Quarter Quell, learning how they won their Games and lived under the Capitol’s watchful gaze would be an interesting prequel story.
3
Mags Flanagan
There is not much information known about Mags. She was first introduced in Catching Fire and made a surprising appearance in Sunrise on the Reaping, but her story is largely unknown. She won the 11th Hunger Games, the year after Lucy Gray won in The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Her behavior towards young Victors like Haymitch and Annie Cresta demonstrates a true kindness in her that has developed over the painful decades she’s endured. A prequel following her life as a Victor and mentor to countless tributes would be heartbreaking and would expand on this selfless character.
2
Plutarch Heavensbee
Since The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, The Hunger Games had been through the perspective of Katniss, a poor citizen from the Districts. It was shocking to realize that the prequel’s protagonist was not only a Capitol citizen, but the president himself. Many fans suspect that a third prequel would return to a Capitol narrator in the form of Plutarch Heavensbee. Gamemaker and secret rebel, Plutarch is a complex and underrated character in the franchise. His perspective on the growing resistance throughout the years would contextualize Katniss’s success in her story.
1
Finnick Odair
Finnick is a fan favorite character since his introduction in Catching Fire. Played by Sam Claflin, the character’s charming personality hides a tragic past. After winning his Games at 14, Finnick was commodified by the Capitol. A prequel centering on the District 4 Victor would not only be interesting for fans of the character, it would also further expose the Capitol’s perverse crimes against the Victors of the Hunger Games. With his death in Mockingjay, looking back onto Finnick’s challenging life would give more insight into his experiences as a Victor and what he was willing to sacrifice for a free Panem.
There are countless focuses for possible prequels coming out of The Hunger Games universe. Some characters deserve to have their backstories explored while also explaining more about the world of Panem and its complicated politics. If Suzanne Collins does release a third installment in her prequel series, fans can trust that they will learn more about how the Games operate and how the rebellion was crafted. Each story gives more context to the original trilogy and continues to remind audiences why these stories remain impactful.
- Release Date
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March 23, 2012
- Runtime
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142 minutes
- Director
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Gary Ross
- Writers
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Billy Ray, Gary Ross, Suzanne Collins
Even months after Stranger Things concluded its five-season run, fans continue to debate one lingering mystery: What really happened to Eleven?
According to Millie Bobby Brown, she actually knows the answer but she isn’t allowed to tell anyone.
Brown Swore to Keep the Secret
While appearing on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Millie Bobby Brown revealed that Matt and Ross Duffer made her swear to secrecy about Eleven’s true fate.
“They were like, ‘Do not tell anyone. Because we made it a secret kind of pledge,’” Brown said. “No one else knows. It’s just us three. And what we do with that information, it’ll be up to them.”
Brown explained that the Duffer Brothers entrusted her with the truth behind Eleven’s ending, making her the only cast member who knows exactly what happened to the beloved character after the series finale.
Stranger Things Season 5 [credit: Netflix]
The Ending Was Meant to Stay Open to Interpretation
The ambiguous finale has sparked countless fan theories since Stranger Things wrapped up, with viewers questioning whether Eleven survived, sacrificed herself, or if the truth lies somewhere in between.
The Duffer Brothers have intentionally left the ending open to interpretation, allowing fans to decide for themselves what Eleven’s future ultimately looks like. Brown’s comments suggest that while the creators have a definitive answer, they have no plans to reveal it publicly.
That means fans hoping Brown might accidentally spill the secret during an interview probably shouldn’t hold their breath.
A Mystery That Will Continue
For many viewers, the uncertainty surrounding Eleven’s fate has become one of the defining talking points of the series finale. While some fans would prefer a concrete answer, others appreciate the mystery and the freedom to interpret the ending for themselves.
For now, Brown appears committed to honoring the promise she made to the Duffer Brothers, ensuring that one of Stranger Things’ biggest mysteries remains exactly that—a mystery.
As the franchise moves forward with new projects, including the upcoming animated series Stranger Things: Tales From ’85’, it appears the secret of Eleven’s ultimate fate will remain safely locked away between Millie Bobby Brown and the Duffer Brothers.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been enthralled by the iconic creatures of Universal’s classic monster franchise: Frankenstein’s monster, Count Dracula, the Mummy, the Bride of Frankenstein, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, and the Invisible Man. These legendary characters, along with their respective actors such as Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney Jr., Claude Rains, and Elsa Lanchester, have all been ingrained in my psyche since childhood. I’ve been dreaming of a place where I could unleash my inner monster, let my freak flag fly, and revel in their ghoulish glory. That place is finally here: Dark Universe, a revolutionary new portal within Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe.
This reimagined universe is not just a nod to the past; it’s a bold evolution of the classic monsters for a modern audience. The masters of theme park magic have taken these beloved characters under their wing, infusing them with a thrilling new sense of excitement, mystery, and wonder. I knew I was home as I watched the introduction to this foreboding realm. The immersive atmosphere is intoxicating, with every detail meticulously crafted to transport visitors into a world of legendary monsters.
Throughout this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the Dark Universe, revealing the monstrous details of mysterious attractions and ghoulish delights that await. From the experiments of Victoria Frankenstein to a twisted landscape where monsters roam, the Dark Universe is a grim world of myth and mystery. Every aspect of this portal is designed to satisfy even the most discerning monster enthusiasts. So, come join me as we delve into the forbidden world of gods and monsters, where the creatures of our wildest nightmares come to life. Let’s raise our stakes and enter… DAS STAKEHAUS!
IT’S ALIVE!
It’s Alive! It’s Alive!” Next year, Universal – the pioneer of the horror genre will bring its timeless monsters to the present day with the debut of Dark Universe – one of the five immersive worlds featured at the all-new Universal Epic Universe opening in 2025. The most mysterious world of Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, this captivating new land will envelop guests in monstrous adventures across various attractions, shops, restaurants and character meet and greets that will thrill everyone from families to classic Monster fans alike. Created by the award-winning Universal Creative team in partnership with Universal Pictures, Dark Universe blends the iconic stories of unearthly legends like Dracula, The Wolf Man, Frankenstein’s Monster, the Bride of Frankenstein and more with a new generation of monsters and characters, including Dr Victoria Frankenstein – the great-great-granddaughter of the infamous Henry Frankenstein who has continued his misguided experiments. As guests venture through Darkmoor – the ravaged village within Dark Universe –they’ll encounter the characters and subjects of those experiments within a first-of-its-kind theme park environment that offers family-friendly fun while also pushing the boundaries on intensity in a way that only Universal could achieve.
ENTER THE DARK UNIVERSE
The formidable journey begins the moment guests enter its electrifying portal via Celestial Park. As you step through the foreboding portal, a jolt of electricity crackles through the air, like the spark of life itself. The air is heavy with anticipation as you enter a realm where the veil between the world of the living and the realm of the dead is at its thinnest. The decaying cemetery before you is shrouded in a thick, eerie fog that clings to your skin like a chill. Tombstones lie upended, their inscriptions worn away by time and neglect, while twisted roots writhe like skeletal fingers across the ground. The wind whispers secrets in your ear, and the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end as you realise that nothing stays buried for long in this forsaken place. As you venture deeper, the energy coursing through the portal intensifies, building towards a crescendo that will culminate at the imposing Frankenstein Manor, a monolith of darkness that looms large over the village like a spectre of death itself. Will you dare to enter this haunted realm, where science and darkness collide in a maelstrom of terror and wonder?
WELCOME TO DARKMOOR
Welcome, brave souls, to Darkmoor, a village shrouded in an eternal twilight where the very fabric of reality seems to unravel like a tattered cloak. As you step into the crumbling blackened stone walls of this foreboding town, the air thickens with an unsettling energy, heavy with the scent of decay and desperation. The once-quaint streets now lie in ruin, scarred by the unholy experiments of the notorious Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, whose twisted creations lurk in every shadow. The creaking of old wooden signs and the distant howling of wolves echo through the night as if the very darkness itself is alive and watching. In this forsaken place, where monsters roam free and the villagers cower in fear, you’ll find yourself drawn into a world of unholy terror and wonder. Enter Frankenstein Manor, where the horrors within will chill your very bones. Stumble upon hidden shops and restaurants, where the eerie atmosphere is only matched by the unsettling cuisine. And venture forth into the woods, where you’ll be able to meet these monsters that lurk around every bend. Guests will embark on thrilling adventures where they can get made up to look like their favourite monsters. This is Darkmoor, a village where survival is a constant struggle, and only the bravest (or most foolhardy) will emerge unscathed. So, brave Universal Orlando’s most chilling ride ever, and dare you enter where the boundaries between reality and nightmare blur like a madman’s canvas?”
“We created a village and a world beyond it where not only can these stories come together, but new stories can come in as well,” explains Pete Carsillo, senior creative director for Dark Universe. “Now you’re in the same place where all those stories come together, but it’s the current day.”
THRILLING AND UNSETTLING ATTRACTIONS
MONSTERS UNCHAINED: THE FRANKENSTEIN EXPERIMENT
Welcome, dear thrill-seekers, to the darkest recesses of the Dark Universe, where the boundaries of sanity are tested and the terror is palpable. Step into the foreboding Frankenstein Manor, where the scent of decay and electricity hangs heavy in the air. This is Universal Orlando’s most terrifying attraction yet, this state-of-the-art dark ride takes guests deep into the catacombs of Frankenstein Manor, where Dr. Victoria Frankenstein conducts her twisted experiments. In a vain display of her genius, she invites guests into her laboratory to witness a demonstration of her ability to control monsters. But her plans go awry when her attempts to control the most dangerous of monsters, Dracula fails, unleashing a maelstrom of monstrous horrors, and you are about to become their prey. As you venture deeper into the darkness, the shadows seem to writhe and twist around you, like living tendrils of malevolence. The crackle of electricity and the hum of machinery will send shivers down your spine as you navigate the dimly lit corridors, pursued by the likes of Dracula, The Wolf Man, The Mummy, and The Creature from the Black Lagoon. The very air seems to vibrate with malevolent energy as you evade their grasping hands, and monstrous wails echo through the darkness. But wait, what’s this? The Phantom of the Opera’s haunting melody wafts through the shadows, accompanied by 14 individual flames that dance in eerie harmony, casting an otherworldly glow over the macabre scene. And then, the question echoes through your mind: who is the true monster here—the creator or her creations? Will you escape the clutches of these unholy abominations, or will you succumb to their primal fury? Only one thing is certain: in the Dark Universe, terror awaits around every twisted corner…
Speaking about Victoria Frankenstein, Greg Hall, creative director of Dark Universe had to say, “We see a maniacal side of her even though she’s our hero. The monsters are released and it’s up to her, Frankenstein and Ygor to help save the day while we’re stuck in the middle of this chaos” speaking about the attraction experience he also said that “What I want guests to say is, ‘That was one of the scariest things I’ve ever done in my life — and you have to try it. It’s hard to scare people these days. We want to make sure they have fun, and they see something they’ll never forget”.
CURSE OF THE WEREWOLF
Step into the shadows of darkness, where the moon casts an eerie glow and the whispers of the forest seem to echo through the trees. The Guild of Mystics beckons you to a colourful encampment shrouded in mystery and foreboding, where the all-knowing seer and leader, Maleva, awaits. She warns you that you bear the mark of the werewolf, a curse that threatens to consume you at any moment. As you board the wagon, the rustling of leaves and snapping of twigs signal your descent into the heart of terror. The air is thick with tension as you hurtle through the dark forest, the sound of gnashing teeth and glowing eyes closing in around you. The wind rushes past your face as you spin and weave through the trees, desperate to escape the snarling pack of werewolves that stalks you. Will you outrun the curse or succumb to its primal fury? For 2 minutes and 37 miles per hour, The family coaster, Curse of the Werewolf will leave you breathless and begging for more. Enter if you dare, but be warned: once you’re bitten by the thrill of this family coaster, there’s no turning back.”
While Maleva does make an appearance in the 1941 film “The Wolf Man,” her Dark Universe version is updated to reflect the fictional culture of the Guild of Mystics, which is rich with beauty, violence and, of course, werewolves.
Speaking about this attraction, Pete Carsillo, senior creative director for Dark Universe had to say.. “It feels really updated, but you could literally trace this Maleva back to another Maleva back to the movie. So now you experience Maleva and her Mystics, but it’s with a lot of richness and a lot of color — stuff you couldn’t get in the old black and white.
MAKE-UP & MEET AND GREETS
DARKMOOR MONSTER MAKEUP EXPERIENCE
Step into the eerie confines of Dr. Pretorius’ notorious laboratory, where the boundaries between human and monster blur. Within these crumbling walls, a team of masterful artisans await to unleash your inner Monster. As you surrender to their skilled hands, they’ll transform your visage into a terrifyingly alluring masterpiece, complete with elaborate face paint and temporary tattoos. Immerse yourself in the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, where the lines between reality and nightmare dissolve. Become one with the darkness as you don the skin of a werewolf, vampire, mummy, or some other fiendishly fantastical creature. The whispers of the dead echo through the lab, as the air thickens with anticipation. Will you dare to unleash your inner monster and join the ranks of the forever damned? Allow the masterful makeup artists to breathe life into your deepest desires, and unleash your inner beast upon the world. Let the transformation begin… if you dare. Some of have waited our whole lives to unleash our inner monsters, so count me in.
“If you want to be a monster, you can actually be made up like a monster,” says Pete. “Or if you want to be a little more meta, you can come in and get your whole family covered up in temporary tattoos. In Dark Universe, you can walk around with [temporary] tattoos on when you’re five!”
MEET THE MONSTERS
Step into the shadows of the Dark Universe, where the boundaries between reality and nightmare blur, and the inhabitants of the village will make your heart skip a beat. As you wander through the twisted streets and crumbling architecture, you’ll encounter the infamous Universal Monsters, their eerie silhouettes lurking in every corner. Say hello to Frankenstein’s Monster, his bride, Dracula, the Invisible Man, and the Wolf Man as they roam free, their eyes glowing with an otherworldly light. But beware, for these are not just mere caricatures – they are the living, breathing embodiment of terror. And then there are the characters created just for this twisted world, like Victoria Frankenstein the eccentric great-great-granddaughter and her monstrous assistants, who will weave a spell of wonder and dread around you. Meet Ygor, the sinister servant with a twisted grin, or the Invisible Man, whose presence is only felt through his unsettling whispers. The air is alive with the scent of decay and death, and the sounds of screams and howls echo through the darkness. Will you dare to take a photo with the Bride of Frankenstein, her porcelain skin glowing in the moonlight? Or will you flee from the grasping hands of The Hounds, monster hunters who patrol the streets in search of their next victim? You’ll even stumble upon a talented musician who will regale you with songs and tales of the classic Universal Monsters stories. Come, join us in Darkmoor Village, where fear is palpable and the unknown lurks around every corner. But be warned: once you enter our domain, there’s no turning back.
“There’s so much for guests to do and see and discover. I really hope that the strokes that we’ve taken here feed the monster kids that are out there — the people who really love the legacy. And I hope that it starts a fire of passion for these characters in new audiences!”-Chris Frisella, executive producer of Dark Universe
UNSETTLING CUISINE
As you step into the foreboding realm of Dark Universe, you’ll find yourself entranced by the eerie allure of two restaurants that will transport you to a world of dark fantasy. The choice is yours: indulge in the sinister ambiance of Das Stakehaus, a vampire-run dining hall where the “familiars” of the night serve up a menu of succulent kebabs, burgers, and sandwiches amidst an atmosphere of ancient mystique and foreboding. Or, succumb to the allure of The Burning Blade Tavern, a smoldering windmill-framed tavern where the scent of sizzling meats and periodic flames waft through the air, beckoning you to sink your teeth into a meal that will leave you howling for more.
DAS STAKEHAUS
Darkmoor’s most ominous restaurant. As you dine, be wary of the vampire “familiars” who serve you, their piercing gazes seeming to size you up as potential meal. But fear not, for their sinister intentions are matched only by the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen. Savor each bite, as the shadows cast by the flickering torches dance across the walls, conjuring tales of ancient battles fought and won. And when you’ve finished your meal, browse the shelves for macabre merchandise and apparel that will make you the envy of all who dare to venture into this haunted realm. In Das Stakehaus, the walls are adorned with artwork that reimagines the world through the eyes of the creatures of the night, casting vampires as heroes in their own twisted tales. Will you find yourself entangled in their dark fantasy, or will you emerge unscathed, with only a taste for blood or adventure? The choice is yours, but be warned: once you enter this realm, there’s no turning back…
THE BURNING BLADE TAVERN
As you step into the foreboding gates of The Burning Blade Tavern, the air thickens with an otherworldly energy, The windmill’s blazing inferno crackles and spews forth a mesmerizing dance of flames, casting an eerie glow over the rustic, weathered walls. It’s as if the spirits of the past have converged upon this forsaken spot, their whispers weaving a spell of temptation around every succulent bite. And what a feast awaits! Savor the savory aroma of sizzling burgers, the spicy tang of wings, the snap of bratwursts and pretzels, and quench your thirst with a specialty brew that will leave you howling for more. But be warned: the tales that unfold within these hallowed halls are not for the faint of heart. The “Hounds” – Darkmoor’s most feared monster hunters – regale patrons with boasts of their gruesome conquests, while their trophies stare down from the walls like malevolent sentinels. Will you dare to indulge in a meal amidst these hunters, or will you flee into the darkness, forever changed by the secrets whispered within these ancient stones? Many years ago, an angry mob of villagers torched the old mill during the infamous Frankenstein incident back in1931. Now, the mill has become their favorite hangout. The mill that stands atop this restaurant erupts into flames every 20 minutes.
Other fun nods to the Universal Monsters universe will include shops and snack stands, including:
De Lacey’s Cottage – Near Frankenstein Manor sits De Lacey’s Cottage food stand, where the original Frankenstein’s Monster once received sustenance and friendship. Here, guests can find a variety of snacks and cool treats like cinnamon bread, ice cream, twisted taters and more.
Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities – “Guests can take home a piece of the immortal world of Dark Universe with commemorative merchandise and mementos
A SHADOWY WORLD OF LEGENDARY MONSTERS
“And so, dear friends, as the curtains close on our journey through the shadows of Darkmoor that is until 2025, I leave you with a haunting whisper: come, join me in the darkness. Let us venture forth into the heart of this eerie realm of Gods and Monsters, where the boundaries between reality and nightmare blur. The wind whispers secrets of the damned in your ear as we venture into Frankenstein Manor for a thrilling ride on Monsters Unchained , the moon casts an otherworldly glow throughout Curse of the Werewolf , and the scent of decay wafts through the air. Welcome to Dark Universe, where the monsters you thought you knew come to life in a world of unspeakable terror. The rustling of dry leaves signals the approach of Dracula’s minions, while Frankenstein’s monster lumbers forth from the shadows, its eyes aglow with an unholy light. The ghosts of film noir flicker like lanterns in the darkness, guiding you deeper into the abyss. And amidst this macabre landscape, tantalizing aromas waft from the shadows: rich coffee, sweet pastries, and savory meats sizzle on ancient grills. Come, indulge, at Das Stakehaus where mortal flavours meet monstrous delights. Quench your thirst with a glass of ‘Dracula’s crimson concoction that will leave you shivering in delight. And as you dine amidst the darkness. These classic monsters will finally have a home in one unique and incredible immersive world in Dark Universe, the line between reality and horror is but a whisper away. The legacy of the Universal Monsters is hard to overstate, after all the IP is over 100 years old and it’s safe to say the creative team behind this world has taken on this project with great respect and admiration.
“It’s really about the care that has been taken, as we’ve crafted these stories and this land, to really respect the history of these films,” says Chris. “But we’re not being charged with creating a museum. We are being charged with creating a living, breathing world and experience.” Dark Universe is world where all of the classic Universal Monsters stories really happened — and soon, guests will be able to venture into the shadows and experience what that world looks like today.
Until we meet again, may your nightmares be filled with sweet terror…
To prepare for the electrifying chills and thrills that await in Dark Universe, guests can now purchase a variety of new merchandise themed to the new land – including apparel, accessories and more. The collection is available for a limited-time and can be purchased at the Universal Epic Universe Preview Center in Universal CityWalk and on https://shop.universalorlando.com/shop/. Stay tuned – more details about Universal Epic Universe will be revealed in the months ahead. For more information about Universal Epic Universe, visit https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/gb/theme-parks/epic-universe.
By Robert Scucci
| Published
My mileage varies when it comes to the raunchy summer sex comedy that’s geared toward younger adults. Mainly because I’m 38, and I grew up during that sweet spot when films like Road Trip, American Pie, and Van Wilder were dominating the cultural zeitgeist. I still occasionally check them out because I have kids of my own, who will one day start watching movies like this behind my back, and I kind of want to know what’s out there. More importantly, though, secret bangers like 2018’s The Package make their rounds and remind me that the part of my brain that’s still stuck in eighth grade will never grow up.
Sometimes, a solid boner comedy is all you need to get through a rough week, and the reason I checked out 2013’s The To Do List wasn’t necessarily because of its premise, but rather its cast. Aubrey Plaza and Donald Glover share screen time, which I know works because Mystery Team (2009) proved the concept, but there’s also Bill Hader, Andy Samberg, and, yes, even McLovin’ (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) added to the mix to make for the kind of raunchy comedy that screams Superbad, but with a female protagonist, portrayed by Plaza in one of her more unhinged feature-length roles.
The talent alone makes The To Do List worth your time, but in this case, the whole feels like less than the sum of its parts. There were moments when I found myself scream laughing, but they were few and far between. Had I actually caught this movie when it came out, I would have been 25, and by extension, more receptive to the humor being presented here. As I approach middle age, however, I’d only recommend this movie to my peers for some of its isolated moments, and honestly, a YouTube sizzle reel crash course of the best moments is probably all you really need from this movie.
Checking Off All The Boxes
In The To Do List, Aubrey Plaza is Brandy Klark, the valedictorian of her graduating class. The movie is set in 1993, so she idolizes Hillary Clinton and her pantsuits. As you would expect, such a young overachiever isn’t exactly a social butterfly, so she’s pretty much awkward on all fronts. Her older sister, Amber (Rachel Bilson), is more experienced when it comes to courting the opposite sex, but she’s not exactly the kind of person to divulge her trade secrets about her sexual exploits.
The real conflict comes in the form of Rusty Waters (Scott Porter), the badass, guitar-playing dude whose abs glisten in the sun like water reflecting off a pristine, undisturbed body of water, which we only know because he’s shirtless whenever he gets a chance to be. Brandy wants to lose her virginity to Rusty, but the problem is that she literally knows nothing about sex. It doesn’t help that her father, George (Clark Gregg), is a judge and a prude, making him the worst possible person to talk to about these things, even though her mother, Jean (Connie Britton), frequently hints that she was quite wild when she was her daughter’s age.
Brandy gets a job at the local pool where Rusty works under the supervision of Willy McLean (Bill Hader), the manager who seemingly lives in the locker rooms and is known for hazing the newbies. Realizing that Rusty is way out of her league, Brandy, the academic that she is, comes up with the ultimate to do list of sexcapades that she feels she needs to accomplish before approaching Rusty with romantic intent.
She “practices” on her study buddy who’s secretly in love with her, Cameron (Johnny Simmons), as well as her friends, Duffy (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) and Derrick (Donald Glover), which culminates in a steamy shower scene involving local rocker Van King (Andy Samberg) as she attempts to get close to Rusty. Meanwhile, Rusty witnesses her increasingly erratic behavior from afar, not knowing what to make of the entire situation. But with each thrust, kiss, slurp, and every other unwholesome activity she has on her to-do list, Brandy keeps her eyes on the prize, absolutely confident that she’s going to finally go all the way with Rusty.
We’ve Already Seen This Movie Before
My biggest gripe with The To Do List is that it’s stuffed to the gills with talent. Bill Hader steals every single scene he’s in because he’s trying to be an authority figure but also wants to be popular, making him constantly at odds with himself. Aubrey Plaza and Rachel Bilson nail the sibling dynamic with the same level of efficacy as Jake and Maggie Gyllenhaal in Donnie Darko, and their bickering, which almost always feels like an afterthought, is what made me laugh the most.
The sex humor, if I’m being entirely honest, was what I liked least about the movie. It’s not that I’m a prude or easily offended, but more of a “been there, done that” kind of scenario. It’s American Pie with a female lead, 14 years too late. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned about coming-of-age raunchy comedies, it’s that they need to ante up with the times. The Package is a perfect example of how to escalate the genre. Nobody’s trying to get laid for the first time because there’s a bigger problem, namely one of the protagonists accidentally chopping off his wiener while trying to slice through his pee stream with his new switchblade.
That said, if you’re a fan of the talent roster that’s jammed into The To Do List, you’ll have heaps of fun spending time with these characters. If you’re expecting a raunchy summer comedy that pushes the envelope past the point of comfort, you’re not really going to find that here.
As of this writing, you can stream The To Do List for free on Tubi. It’s solid if you don’t watch a ton of these movies and aren’t used to the humor. But if you’ve been around the block with boner comedies of yesteryear, this one’s just more of the same.
A woman is accused of drugging a man she met at an South Florida event venue after taking an Uber ride to his home, where she allegedly stole his gold Rolex.
Lynda Mae Crouse, 32, of Miami, has been linked to additional “bad date” cases involving alleged druggings as part of a scheme to steal victims’ belongings, according to court records viewed by Us.
Crouse was arrested on Friday, September 11, on a charge of second-degree grand theft in connection with the Rolex she allegedly stole from the man she met in April, court records show.
On April 12, Crouse exchanged Instagram accounts with the man after meeting him around midnight at the Carousel Club, a large open-air entertainment space featuring a cocktail lounge in Hallandale Beach, according to a probable cause affidavit.
After they parted ways, an officer wrote in the affidavit that the man ordered an Uber to pick up Crouse, who was driven to his home around 1:40 a.m.
Crouse and the man drank a few alcoholic beverages together, but “not enough” for the man to “‘black out’ or ‘pass out,’” he told investigators. However, he eventually started feeling “funny” and groggy.
He recalled hearing a clapping noise coming from his living room at a certain point, and later came to believe was the sound of his Rolex watch box being shut, according to the affidavit.
After hearing the sound, he told investigators that Crouse said she was going home, the affidavit states.
“The victim was becoming increasingly more tired and confused and fell asleep within minutes of (Crouse) leaving his residence,” the filing continues.
When he awoke hours later, he was still feeling “funny” and suspected he had been drugged, according to investigators. He then allegedly opened his Rolex box and discovered his watch was missing.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ ex Yung Miami claims to have proof to dispel claims in Lil Rod‘s lawsuit that she transported drugs to the rapper. “The allegations Lil Rod has made in his lawsuit are completely false,” a source close to Yung Miami exclusively told Us Weekly, claiming that she has “time stamped photo evidence” of […]
He believes Crouse stole the watch, which featured multiple diamonds covering the bezel according to the affidavit, which says the Rolex had been appraised at $98,400.
The man told police that although he didn’t take a drug test, that the “funny” feeling from allegedly being drugged lingered, the affidavit states.
He later identified Crouse from a photo lineup, according to the affidavit.
Crouse is accused of four similar cases in Miami-Dade County, where she allegedly appeared to “intentionally drug her victims with a sedative substance in order to incapacitate them and steal their property,” according to investigators.
“She targets her victims at a bar or night club who are wearing expensive watches,” the officer wrote in the affidavit.
In one case, a toxicology test confirmed a victim had a sleep aid in their system, according to the filing. This victim allegedly experienced similar effects described by the man who met Crouse at the Carousel Club.
Court records didn’t indicate whether Crouse had retained legal counsel or entered a plea.
During a Monday, September 14, probable cause hearing, the court ruled there was enough probable cause to believe Crouse allegedly stole the man’s Rolex.
By Robert Scucci
| Published
One of the best parts about growing up in the 80s and 90s is how localized television was, especially when it comes to news programs. One of the finest examples of how effective this format is for comedy and horror has got to be 2025’s Buffet Infinity, which is 99 straight minutes of local advertisements that eventually culminate in a horrific story about religious cults, a sentient restaurant of unknown origin that spawned from a sinkhole, and how the community subtly reacts to some sort of cosmic horror that’s in their own backyard, but nobody wants to address directly.
WNUF Halloween Special takes a far less absurdist approach than Buffet Infinity in the sense that it plays out like a piece of lost media involving a newscast gone wrong when paranormal interference ruins everybody’s Halloween.
The spirit remains the same, though, as the broadcast is jam-packed with fake commercials of varying audiovisual quality while lulling you into a sense of calm nostalgia as an oppressive amount of VHS hiss dominates the sound design. Given how much questionable, and downright terrible, found footage horror is out there, WNUF Halloween Special is an absolute treat because it’s not a bunch of scared kids in the woods trying to capitalize on the success of The Blair Witch Project.
Since we’re talking about a supposedly real piece of lost media in order to enjoy the show, the camerawork is surprisingly steady because we’re being sold the illusion that this was all documented by a trained camera crew, which makes the movie feel that much more authentic than its contemporaries.
A Straight-Faced Piece Of Alleged Lost Media
WNUF Halloween Special presents itself as a VHS recording of a local television broadcast that originally aired on Halloween night in 1987. The main event is reporter Frank Stewart (Paul Fahrenkopf) broadcasting live from the infamous Webber House, where Donald Webber murdered his parents 20 years earlier after allegedly receiving instructions from a demonic spirit board.
The house has remained vacant ever since, and stories of paranormal activity have turned it into a local legend. Frank, however, approaches the entire assignment with the dry enthusiasm of a man who seems mildly annoyed that he has to be there at all, cracking jokes with trick-or-treaters and treating the supposedly haunted house like another piece of disposable local-news holiday fluff.
Joining Frank are husband-and-wife paranormal investigators Dr. Louis Berger (Brian St. August) and Claire Berger (Helenmary Ball), a thinly veiled parody of Ed and Lorraine Warren who take the supernatural considerably more seriously than their host, who lowkey thinks they’re full of crap until he has a compelling reason to think otherwise.
Claire quickly becomes convinced that something dangerous is inside the Webber House, while Frank remains skeptical and keeps the broadcast moving whenever the Bergers start getting worked up. Father Joseph Matheson (Robert Long II), a Catholic priest brought along in case an exorcism becomes necessary, isn’t particularly reassuring either, admitting that his experience with exorcism is mostly academic. Producer Veronica Stanze (Nicolette le Faye), meanwhile, remains outside coordinating the broadcast as Frank and his increasingly nervous group venture deeper into the house.
All of this is constantly interrupted by fake commercials, station promos, news segments, and other pieces of gloriously mundane late-’80s local television, sometimes even fast-forwarded by whoever supposedly recorded the tape. The commitment to the bit initially makes the Webber House investigation feel like an elaborate publicity stunt, complete with technical problems, questionable experts, and Frank’s increasingly strained attempts to keep things entertaining.
But when strange occurrences begin piling up, the Bergers become considerably less interested in staying inside, and the interruptions start feeling less like comic relief and more like temporary escapes from whatever is happening between commercial breaks. What begins as WNUF exploiting a local ghost story for Halloween ratings gradually turns into something genuinely unsettling, and Frank’s skepticism becomes harder to maintain once the broadcast starts slipping beyond anybody’s control.
We’ll Be Right Back After This Commercial Break
While I cannot praise Paul Fahrenkopf’s portrayal of Frank Stewart enough in WNUF Halloween Special, the film wouldn’t work as well as it does without co-anchors Gavin Gordon (Richard Cutting) and Deborah Merritt (Leanna Chamish), who are respectively dressed as a vampire and a witch back at the station while cracking wise with their spooky banter that they think is pushing the envelope, but remains incredibly PC because they’re broadcasting on live television.
With each cutaway as the story escalates, they transition from jovial and lighthearted to genuinely concerned about their journalists out in the field investigating the Webber House. Since this is show business, though, they keep their composure while everything falls apart behind the scenes.
The commercials, which play exactly how you’d expect from local television of this era, only heighten the ridiculousness of the entire ordeal everybody’s facing because between the horrifying moments that transpire at the Webber House, we get prerecorded political slam pieces, advertisements for dental practices, and the Shining Trapeze Strip Club. What makes the commercials so effective is that several of them were directed by different people, much like real commercials would be. Each advertisement has a distinct voice while similarly boasting the same late-80s local TV aesthetic.
While I’m sure there are plenty of moments where the illusion breaks since this was filmed in 2013, the effort put into making this look like a piece of lost media from 1987 cannot be overstated. This feels like a deep pull from Grandma’s VHS collection, and that’s where most of the charm comes from.
As of this writing, you can stream the WNUF Halloween Special on AMC+. It may still technically be streaming, but this is the closest you can get to VHS without actually hooking up an old VCR.
WNUF HALLOWEEN SPECIAL SCORE
Entertainment
‘Stargate SG-1’ Star Officially Reveals Plot Details for Prime Video’s Cancelled Sci-Fi Reboot
It has been three months since Prime Video canceled the Stargate reboot series, but fans, including many franchise stars, are still actively trying to save it. A dedicated campaign labelled “Save Stargate with Martin Gero!” has been running for months, and the Change.org petition has gathered over 123,000 signatures so far. Additionally, #SaveStargate remains a common presence on social media and even appears in comments on Prime Video posts promoting unrelated movies and shows.
The planned sci-fi series was to be led by franchise veteran Martin Gero, who previously wrote for all three live-action Stargate series. Other key contributors, including Brad Wright, Joseph Mallozzi, Dean Devlin, and Roland Emmerich, also joined as producers and executive producers during development, though few story details were initially disclosed. However, this is about to change as a franchise icon recently revealed surprising news, including story specifics and the show’s cancellation status.
During the Stargate SG-1 reunion panel at Rose City Comic Con, moderated by ScreenRant’s Ash Crossan, Richard Dean Anderson, who played Jack O’Neill in all ten seasons of SG-1, explained that the cancelled Amazon series wasn’t actually a reboot. According to him, SG-1‘s Daniel Jackson, portrayed by Michael Shanks in the military sci-fi series, would serve as a conduit to connect “our show” and universe to the next generation.
“I’ve stayed out of touch with many things in my life, but the politics going on over the reboot, they’re calling it – first of all, it technically didn’t seem like a reboot more than it was using Michael Shanks’ character, Daniel, well again, as the conduit that would take us from our show, from our universe to the next generation of it.”
Is Amazon’s ‘Stargate’ Truly Dead?
Since Amazon cancelled the highly anticipated series in June, various reports have emerged exploring potential reasons. Initial reports indicated Amazon executives worried the series might only appeal to the existing fanbase. However, later reports suggested that leadership changes within Amazon played a role. Currently, Anderson offers more insight, suggesting the cancellation stemmed from disagreements over who would have “control” of the show.
“Something has gone awry in the negotiations, or the development, or who’s going to run it, who’s going to control it, etc. etc. There’s so many things that take place behind my scene anyway. I can guess what has been happening, but I think it’s been forestalled because of all of those things I just referenced a second ago.”
As for the possibility of the cancelled Stargate series returning, the SG-1 star is admittedly unsure of its current status and isn’t very optimistic. Also, conversations with Michael Shanks imply that “it’s kind of a dead issue,” but Anderson himself is unsure and prefers to keep his opinions private. Despite this, he acknowledges the ongoing efforts through the “Save Stargate” campaign and remains hopeful the project can be revived.
Stargate SG-1 streams on Prime Video. Stay tuned to Collider for future Stargate updates.
- Showrunner
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Martin Gero
- Writers
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Martin Gero
HBO’s The Last of Us has been one of the network’s defining dramas of the last several years. The video game adaptation, led by Pedro Pascal (The Mandalorian) and Bella Ramsey (Game of Thrones), debuted in 2023 and quickly became both a ratings and awards success for HBO, with its second season dramatically expanding the story beyond Joel and Ellie’s original journey, for better or worse. Well, now we know if HBO actually sees a long-term future in the series.
HBO Chairman and CEO Casey Bloys has now indicated that The Last of Us Season 3 will be the show’s final season, with the new episodes currently expected to arrive sometime in 2027. Speaking to Deadline following this year’s Emmy Awards, Bloys was asked when audiences could expect the third season and confirmed, “It’ll be happening in ’27. I don’t have a date.”
When pressed on whether HBO was finally prepared to confirm Season 3 as the end of the series, Bloys pointed directly to co-creator Craig Mazin (Chernobyl) and his plans for the story: “I think [showrunner] Craig [Mazin] has planned it as the final season.”
Mazin had previously mentioned that he felt the entire story might need four seasons to tell, but those plans now appear to have shifted. The loss of Naughty Dog head Neil Druckmann from the creative side, too, may also have played a part and it might just be that all parties feel it’s best to wrap up now.
It also means that there may need to be a shift in what was expected of the actors. Ramsey had previously indicated she would only have a small role in the third season, but Ellie plays a huge role in the final act of The Last of Us Part II.
What Will Season 3 of ‘The Last of Us’ Be About?
Season 2 made one of the biggest changes from the video game by ending before completing the story of The Last of Us Part II. Its finale brought Ellie’s portion of the Seattle storyline to a dramatic stopping point before turning the clock back three days and shifting perspective to Kaitlyn Dever’s Abby.
Ramsey will return as Ellie, while Dever is expected to take on a substantially larger role as Abby. The existing ensemble also includes Isabela Merced (Alien: Romulus) as Dina, Young Mazino (Beef) as Jesse, Gabriel Luna (Terminator: Dark Fate) as Tommy, and Jeffrey Wright (The Batman) as Isaac Dixon.
The Last of Us returns in 2027.
- Release Date
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January 15, 2023
- Network
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HBO
- Showrunner
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Craig Mazin
- Directors
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Craig Mazin, Peter Hoar, Jeremy Webb, Ali Abbasi, Mark Mylod, Stephen Williams, Jasmila Žbanić, Liza Johnson, Nina Lopez-Corrado
- Writers
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Neil Druckmann, Craig Mazin, Halley Wegryn Gross
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