Showbiz
Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 2 Trailer Released
The trailer for Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 2 has been released, showcasing the upcoming final episodes of the series. The two-minute clip dropped on December 15 and gives a glimpse into what's to come for the characters, including Will, Eleven, and the rest of the gang. The final season's second chapter, consisting of three episodes, premieres on Christmas Day. In the trailer, it's revealed that Will can harness Vecna's telekinetic powers, but it's unclear if this will be enough to stop Vecna from completing his new world order. The trailer also shows Eleven asking her long-lost sister Eight to help her find and kill Vecna, while Nancy is in a shoot-out against Dr. Kay and her soldiers. Additionally, Max and Holly attempt to escape Vecna's mindscape, and Demodogs wreak havoc on Hawkins Memorial Hospital. The three episodes in Stranger Things Season 5, Volume 2 are titled "Chapter Five: Shock Jock," "Chapter Six: Escape From Camazotz," and "Chapter Seven: The Bridge." They will arrive on Netflix on December 25 at 8 p.m. ET. The trailer promises a mix of action, suspense, and emotional moments, including tender interactions between the characters. With the release of the trailer, fans are eagerly anticipating the conclusion of the series.
Zootopia 2 Regains Top Spot at Box Office, Grosses $1 Billion Worldwide
Zootopia 2 has reclaimed the number one spot at the domestic box office, earning $26.3 million in its third weekend of release. This brings the film's global total to $1.14 billion, making it the second film of the year to surpass $1 billion worldwide. The Walt Disney Co. animated sequel has been particularly successful in China, where it has grossed $502.4 million, becoming the biggest Hollywood hit in the country in years. The film's success comes as the box office experiences a relatively quiet weekend, with no major new releases. Five Nights at Freddy's 2, which debuted strongly last weekend, saw a significant drop of 70% in its second weekend, earning $15.4 million. Despite this, the film has still been a commercial success, with a domestic total of $95.5 million. The weekend's most notable new release was Ella McCay, directed by James L. Brooks, which earned a disappointing $2.1 million from 2,500 locations. The film, which features a supporting cast including Jamie Lee Curtis and Woody Harrelson, received poor reviews and had low box-office expectations. The coming holiday season is expected to be a busy period for moviegoers, with several highly anticipated films set to be released, including Avatar: Fire and Ash and The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants. The year's overall ticket sales are currently running close to last year's totals, according to Comscore data.
Anthony Geary, Star of 'General Hospital,' Dies at 78
Anthony Geary, the actor known for playing Luke Spencer on the ABC soap opera "General Hospital," has died at the age of 78. Geary's portrayal of the quirky and impulsive character made him a household name and one of daytime TV's most iconic figures. He played Luke Spencer from 1978 to 2015, bringing to life a character that was initially intended to be an anti-hero. In a 2015 interview with "Nightline," Geary noted that Luke Spencer was "not created to be a heroic character" but rather an anti-hero, a trait that Geary embraced and developed over the years. Geary described his character as "all shades of grey," making him a complex and intriguing figure to audiences. With a career spanning decades, Geary's impact on "General Hospital" and daytime television will be remembered. This is a developing story, with more updates to come. Geary's legacy as a talented actor and his iconic character will undoubtedly be celebrated by fans and the entertainment industry alike.
Hollywood Director Rob Reiner and Wife Found Dead in Los Angeles Home
Legendary Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife, producer Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is investigating the case as an apparent homicide. Rob Reiner's son, Nick Reiner, has been booked on suspicion of murder and is being held on $4 million bail. The 32-year-old had struggled with addiction in the past and had spoken publicly about his experiences. Rob Reiner was a renowned director, known for his work on films such as "When Harry Met Sally," "The Princess Bride," and "A Few Good Men." He and his wife were married for over three decades and had three children together. The news of their death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many celebrities and politicians paying tribute to the couple. Former President Barack Obama described Rob Reiner as a man who "lived a life defined by purpose" and said he and his wife will be remembered for the values they championed. The investigation into the deaths is ongoing, with detectives interviewing family members and seeking a search warrant for the Reiners' home.
Anthony Geary, Legendary 'General Hospital' Actor, Dies at 78
Anthony Geary, the renowned actor best known for his iconic role as Luke Spencer on the soap opera 'General Hospital', has passed away at the age of 78. Geary died on Sunday due to complications from a scheduled operation he underwent three days prior. His husband, Claudio Gama, confirmed the news, stating it was a shock to their families and friends. Geary's portrayal of Luke Spencer earned him eight Daytime Emmy Awards and cemented his status as a soap opera superstar. He first appeared on 'General Hospital' in 1978 and his character's romance with Laura Webber Baldwin, played by Genie Francis, became a central storyline. Geary's performance as the complex and troubled Luke Spencer made him a household name, and his on-screen wedding to Laura in 1981 remains one of the most-watched episodes in television history, attracting 30 million viewers. Throughout his career, Geary received numerous awards and nominations for his work, including eight Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. He is widely regarded as one of the most popular and influential actors in soap opera history.
Howard Stern's Ex-Sidekick Artie Lange Reveals Devastating Effects of Drug Use
Comedian Artie Lange, former co-host of The Howard Stern Show, has been spotted for the first time in five years, revealing a shocking transformation due to his struggles with drug use. The 58-year-old posed in a photo with fellow comedians and his sister, showcasing a reconstructed nose. Lange has been open about his addiction, blaming it for his deformed nose. In a 2019 interview, he explained that years of drug abuse and a violent incident with a bookie who punched him in the nose led to the destruction of his septum. Despite undergoing two operations, Lange stated that his nose is "just in bad shape." His struggles with alcohol and drugs led to his departure from The Howard Stern Show in 2009, where he was a co-host from 2001. However, in 2020, Lange shared on Instagram that he had been sober for a year, expressing gratitude for his progress. The recent photo marks a rare public appearance for Lange, who has been working to overcome his addiction. His story serves as a testament to the devastating effects of substance abuse and the importance of seeking help and support. Lange's journey towards recovery is a positive step, and his openness about his struggles may help raise awareness and inspire others to seek assistance.
Rob Reiner's Son Arrested on Suspicion of Homicide After Director and Wife Found Dead
Rob Reiner, a legendary actor, director, and political activist, and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead at their Brentwood home on Sunday. Their son, Nick Reiner, 32, was booked into the Los Angeles County jail on suspicion of murder, with a bail set at $4 million. Law enforcement sources reported that there was no sign of forced entry into the home and that the couple had injuries consistent with being stabbed. The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the deaths as a homicide. Nick Reiner had a history of struggling with addiction and had been in and out of rehab centers as a teenager. He had gotten clean by 2015 and worked with his father on the semi-autobiographical film "Being Charlie," which addressed addiction and recovery. Rob Reiner, 78, was known for his work on films such as "When Harry Met Sally," "The Princess Bride," and "Stand by Me," as well as his political activism, particularly in the fight for equal rights and children's issues. The community has expressed shock and sadness over the tragic loss, with Mayor Karen Bass describing Rob Reiner as a "big-hearted genius" who used his gifts to serve others.
Rob Reiner and Wife Michele Found Dead in Los Angeles Home, Son in Custody
Rob Reiner, a renowned Hollywood actor and director, and his wife Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday afternoon. The couple's 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, is in custody and being held on $4 million bail. Authorities are investigating the deaths as an apparent homicide, with reports indicating that the couple suffered stab wounds. Rob Reiner was best known for directing classic films such as "This Is Spinal Tap," "A Few Good Men," "When Harry Met Sally," and "The Princess Bride." He also acted in the iconic sitcom "All in the Family." Tributes have poured in from the entertainment industry, including from actors Sean Astin, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Stephen King, who remembered Reiner as a "superlative filmmaker" and a "wonderful friend." The Los Angeles Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident, with Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton stating that detectives are interviewing family members to gather more information. The Reiner family has confirmed the deaths, asking for privacy during this difficult time. Nick Reiner's arrest has sparked shock and sadness, with many remembering Rob Reiner's contributions to the entertainment industry and his impact on American culture.
Taylor Sheridan's Landman Takes a Shot at The View
In the latest episode of Taylor Sheridan's Landman, a character compares The View to a "fart in church," sparking interest in how the show's hosts will respond. The comment was made by Billy Bob Thornton's character Tommy, who advised his father T.L. to watch The View as a source of semi-ironic daytime amusement. However, T.L. had no knowledge of the show, prompting Tommy to describe it as "a bunch of pissed-off millionaires bitching about how much they hate millionaires and Trump and men and you and me and everybody else they got a bee up their ass about." The comment is seen as a mild shot at the show, and it will be interesting to see how The View's hosts, including Whoopi Goldberg, respond to the criticism. It's worth noting that Landman has been criticized for its depiction of female characters, making Tommy's comment a notable moment in the series. The show's creator, Taylor Sheridan, is known for using his characters to express his own viewpoints, and this comment is likely to spark a reaction from The View's hosts. Whether they choose to address the comment or ignore it remains to be seen. In any case, the comment has generated interest in how The View will respond, and it will be worth watching to see how the situation plays out. With Landman already confirmed for a third season, fans can expect more of the show's unique blend of drama and social commentary. The show is available to stream on Paramount+, and new episodes are released every Sunday. As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see how The View's hosts choose to respond to Tommy's comment, and whether it will lead to a larger conversation about the show and its place in popular culture.
NYT Connections Puzzle #918 Answers and Hints for Dec. 15
The New York Times Connections puzzle for Dec. 15, #918, is now available, and hints and answers have been provided to help players solve the challenging groups. The puzzle consists of four groups: yellow, green, blue, and purple, each with a unique theme. The yellow group is related to sporting events, specifically tournament rounds, with answers including final, qualifier, quarter, and semi. The green group is themed around enormous things, with answers such as bumper, giant, monster, and titanic. The blue group is related to disreputable establishments, with answers including dive, dump, hole, and joint. The purple group is more abstract, with the theme being what the letter "C" might mean, and answers including Celsius, cold, one hundred, and see. Players can use various strategies to solve the puzzle, such as saying the clue words out loud, avoiding obvious groupings, and breaking down compound words. Additionally, the Times now offers a Connections Bot, which provides a numeric score and analysis of players' answers. Registered players can also track their progress, including the number of puzzles completed and win rate.
Chris Chalk Discusses His Portrayal of Young Dick Hallorann in 'It: Welcome to Derry'
Chris Chalk, the actor playing a young Dick Hallorann in the HBO series 'It: Welcome to Derry', discusses his approach to the character and the show's exploration of racism and trauma. Chalk notes that his character's backstory and personality were a surprise to him, as he is typically portrayed as a kind and charismatic figure in Stephen King's works. However, in 'It: Welcome to Derry', Hallorann is shown to be a complex and troubled individual with telekinetic powers. Chalk also talks about his personal experiences with trauma and how they inform his acting, stating that he has "good trauma" that he uses to connect with his characters. He expresses gratitude for his career, which has allowed him to process and deal with his past. The show's portrayal of Black characters and its handling of racist themes are also discussed, with Chalk praising the show's thoughtful and realistic approach. Overall, Chalk's performance as Dick Hallorann has been well-received, and his insights into the character and the show provide a deeper understanding of the series' themes and characters.
Upcoming TV Releases: 'Fallout,' 'Emily in Paris,' and More
This week's TV lineup includes the return of several popular series and the premiere of new shows. On December 17, Prime Video's adaptation of the post-apocalyptic video game series "Fallout" returns for its second season, following the fortunes of characters navigating an irradiated America. Netflix's "Emily in Paris" returns for its fifth season on December 18, with its heroine trying out Rome. The Adult Swim special "The Elephant" airs on December 19, featuring a group of animators working on different acts of a single show without seeing each other's work. Apple TV's "Born to Be Wild" also premieres on December 19, telling the stories of endangered animals raised in captivity as they're introduced to life in the wild. The documentary "Breakdown: 1975" comes to Netflix on December 19, exploring the landmark year in film releases with interviews from luminaries like Martin Scorsese and Jodie Foster. Additionally, actor and comedian Kumail Nanjiani releases his latest comedy special, "Kumail Nanjiani: Night Thoughts," on Hulu on December 19. The special promises to be an entertaining and lighthearted watch, with Nanjiani gently reassuring viewers that his newfound muscles are not intimidating. With a range of new releases, there's something for everyone to look forward to this week on TV.
Director Rob Reiner and Wife Michele Singer Found Stabbed to Death in Los Angeles Home
Director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer, were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday, according to a statement from their family. Senior law enforcement sources told ABC News that the victims were stabbed to death in their Brentwood-area residence. The Reiner family announced the tragic passing, stating they are "heartbroken by this sudden loss" and asking for privacy during this difficult time. Officials have not identified a suspect and nobody is currently in custody. Mayor Karen Bass described the loss as "devastating" for the city and country, highlighting Reiner's contributions to American culture and society. Rob Reiner, known for directing massive Hollywood hits like "The Princess Bride" and "When Harry Met Sally...," was 78 years old, while his wife Michele was 68. The LAPD's Robbery-Homicide Division is leading the investigation. The news of their death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from notable figures, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who described Reiner as a man with "boundless empathy" whose stories have taught generations about goodness and righteousness. Reiner and Singer were married in 1989 and had three children together. The community is in shock, with neighbors reporting that actors Billy Crystal and Larry David visited the home on Sunday evening, with Crystal appearing visibly distraught. The investigation is ongoing, with the LAPD working to identify a suspect and determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
Critics Weigh In on Off-Broadway Revival of Eugene O'Neill's Anna Christie
The Off-Broadway revival of Eugene O'Neill's Anna Christie, directed by Thomas Kail, has officially opened at St. Ann's Warehouse. The production stars Michelle Williams in the title role, alongside Mare Winningham, Brian d'Arcy James, and Tom Sturridge. The play, which premiered in 1921 and won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1922, follows a former prostitute trying to turn her life around. The creative team includes movement and fight choreography by Steven Hoggett, scenic design by Christine Jones and Brett J. Banakis, costume design by Paul Tazewell, lighting design by Natasha Katz, and music by Nicholas Britell. Reviews from various outlets, including The New York Times, The Guardian, and The New Yorker, are now available. The production will run through February 1, 2026, with a brief hiatus from December 22, 2025, to January 5, 2026. Tickets can be purchased at StAnnsWarehouse.org. This revival marks the fourth time Anna Christie has been revived, following previous productions in 1952, 1977, and 1993.
Rian Johnson's Wake Up Dead Man Pays Homage to Golden Age Detective Fiction
Rian Johnson's latest installment in the Knives Out franchise, Wake Up Dead Man, now streaming on Netflix, pays homage to the Golden Age of detective fiction, particularly the locked-room mystery subgenre. The film features a brief disquisition on the subgenre from detective Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig. The story itself contains a locked-room mystery, where the charismatic but sulfurous Monsignor Jefferson Wicks is stabbed in the back despite being alone in a storage alcove. The film draws inspiration from John Dickson Carr's 1935 novel The Hollow Man, considered a masterpiece of the genre. However, Johnson's true subject is a spiritual crisis, that of Reverend Jud Duplenticy, a young priest who teams up with Blanc to find the real killer. The film explores the opposition between reason and faith, with Blanc's deductions pitted against the religious man's beliefs. Ultimately, the film suggests that faith and reason are not opposed but united, a theme reminiscent of G.K. Chesterton's Father Brown stories. The film's climax features Blanc having a "Damascus moment," where he refrains from revealing the killer's identity, instead urging them to confess and seek redemption. This move is a nod to the Father Brown tradition, where the detective's primary concern is not to solve the crime but to save the souls of the perpetrators.
2 Found Dead at Brentwood Mansion Owned by Director Rob Reiner
Two individuals, a man and a woman approximately 78 and 68 years old, were found dead inside a Brentwood home owned by director and actor Rob Reiner. The discovery was made on Sunday afternoon, with the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responding to the scene around 3:30 p.m. Following the discovery, LAPD officers were dispatched to the home for an "ambulance death investigation." The identities of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding their deaths have not been confirmed. LAPD Robbery Homicide Division detectives have been assigned to the case, and there is a significant police presence at the home. Neighbors indicated that Reiner and his wife reside in the home, which property records confirm they own. The investigation is ongoing, with officials currently unable to share further information. This incident is developing, and more details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is handling the investigation, with multiple law enforcement sources confirming the deaths. The community is awaiting further updates on the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. For now, the cause and details of the deaths remain under investigation.
Taylor Swift Attends Second Consecutive Kansas City Chiefs Game
Taylor Swift, the 14-time Grammy winner, attended her second consecutive Kansas City Chiefs game, watching the team play against the Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium. Swift, who is engaged to Kansas City tight end Travis Kelce, was seen in a suite with Kylie Kelce, the wife of retired Eagles center Jason Kelce, and their daughters. This appearance follows her 36th birthday celebration and marks her fifth public appearance at a Chiefs game since announcing her engagement to Kelce in August. Swift has been keeping a low profile while supporting Kelce at his games, avoiding TV cameras and grand tunnel entrances. The couple plans to tie the knot on June 13, 2026, and is reportedly considering having a ceremony in Rhode Island, where Swift has a home, as well as a potential second wedding in Tennessee. Last week, Swift attended the Chiefs' game against the Houston Texans, accompanied by her best friend Selena Gomez, Lena Dunham, and Leonardo DiCaprio. The 6-7 Chiefs are hoping to keep their playoff hopes alive, with Swift's support from the sidelines.
Peter Greene, Iconic 'Pulp Fiction' Villain, Dies at 60
Peter Greene, a renowned character actor, has passed away at the age of 60. He was best known for his iconic role as Zed in Quentin Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction." Greene died in his New York City home, with his manager Gregg Edwards confirming the news on Friday. The cause of death has not been released. Greene began his career with leading roles in "Laws of Gravity" in 1992 and "Clean, Shaven" in 1993. His breakthrough role came in 1994 with "Pulp Fiction," where he played the memorable villain Zed. The same year, he also appeared as a leading villain in "The Mask" alongside Jim Carrey and Cameron Diaz. At the time of his death, Greene was working on two projects, including a documentary about the federal government's withdrawal of funding from the US Agency for International Development. His manager, Gregg Edwards, described Greene as "arguably one of the greatest character actors on the planet" and "just the nicest man." Greene's passing has left the film industry mourning the loss of a talented actor who had worked with numerous notable directors and actors throughout his career.
Kate Hudson and Jeremy Allen White Discuss Their Music-Driven Films and Craft
Kate Hudson and Jeremy Allen White, stars of the music-driven films "Song Sung Blue" and "Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere," respectively, sat down to discuss their experiences portraying musicians and the impact of music on their craft. Hudson, who plays one-half of a Neil Diamond tribute band in "Song Sung Blue," praised White's performance as Bruce Springsteen, saying it made her emotional due to its authenticity. White, who was given a 1955 Gibson J-200 guitar by Springsteen himself, noted that the album "Nebraska" was a north star for him during filming, helping him connect with the character. The two actors also discussed their approaches to acting, with Hudson emphasizing the importance of spontaneity and flexibility, while White admitted to being more rigid in his preparation. They shared stories about their time on set, including Hudson's experience working with Naomi Watts and White's encounters with Springsteen. Music played a significant role in their conversations, with both actors highlighting its ability to evoke emotions and inspire their performances. Hudson and White also touched on the topic of romantic comedies, with White expressing his desire to star in a classic rom-com like "When Harry Met Sally." Hudson cautioned that the genre is harder than it seems, requiring a deep understanding of the audience's expectations and desires. Overall, their conversation showcased the passion and dedication that goes into bringing music-driven stories to life on screen.
Taylor Swift Faces Backlash Over Israel References in New Documentary
Taylor Swift's new docuseries, "Taylor Swift: The End of an Era," has sparked outrage among some fans due to two references to Israel. The documentary, which premiered on Disney+, mentions Israel twice, leading some to accuse Swift of deliberately choosing to include these segments and demanding that she take a pro-Palestinian stance. The first reference appears in a scene where fans discuss meeting others from "Scotland, England and Israel," with critics claiming that the pause between countries suggested the Israel reference could have been easily edited out. The second mention comes in a CNN news clip about canceled shows in Austria due to terror threats, featuring a reporter broadcasting from Tel Aviv. Fans have taken to social media to express their anger, with some calling the references "embarrassing" and "disgusting." The backlash also stems from Swift's decision not to take a firm political stance in favor of the Palestinian side during the war in Gaza. Some users have linked the mentions to broader political implications, accusing Swift of attempting to "humanize baby killers and perpetrators of genocide" by including Israel in her documentary. Others have criticized the documentary for not addressing the death of a fan during a Swift concert in Brazil, although only two episodes have been released so far.