Shakira supports a Bad Bunny Super Bowl halftime show: 'It's about time!'

PBS SoCal is hosting a telethon featuring stars like Josh Groban and Jamie Lee Curtis to support public television after funding cuts by the Trump administration. This event, titled 'We ❤ Public Television!', aims to celebrate 55 years of trusted broadcasting and raise awareness about the importance of public media. It's a crucial moment for local stations to rally support and ensure that quality programming continues for everyone.

Jiaoying Summers is making waves with her first hour-long comedy special, 'What Specie Are You?', set to premiere on Hulu on November 8. Recognized as one of Variety's 10 Comics to Watch, Summers uses her unique comedic style to explore the differences and commonalities among people. This special is significant not just for its humor but also for its timely message about unity and diversity, making it a must-watch for fans of comedy.

Director Jon M. Chu has dedicated over five years to adapting the beloved Broadway musical 'Wicked' into two films, which he views as a single epic narrative, similar to 'The Lord of the Rings.' This perspective highlights the ambitious nature of the project and its potential to resonate with audiences, making it a significant addition to the cinematic landscape.

In the latest episode of the 'Daily Variety' podcast, Rebecca Rubin discusses the impressive performance of 'Black Phone 2' at the box office, highlighting its strong connection with audiences. This year has seen a record-breaking tally for the horror genre, showcasing its growing popularity. Additionally, Todd Spangler provides insights into the upcoming Q3 earnings for major players like Netflix and Disney, making this episode a must-listen for film and business enthusiasts alike.

Shakira recently shared her thoughts on why Bad Bunny is the perfect choice to headline the Super Bowl, highlighting the significance of the moment for Latin music. She also expressed her desire to collaborate with Chappell Roan and her plans to revisit classic hits for Spotify. This is exciting news as it showcases the growing influence of Latin artists in mainstream music and the potential for innovative collaborations that can resonate with diverse audiences.

In a recent article, a writer from Variety has taken a strong stance on the current media landscape, criticizing journalists like Joe Scarborough for their perceived manipulation of truth. This commentary highlights the growing concern over media integrity and the challenges of discerning fact from opinion in today's polarized environment. It matters because it reflects a broader struggle for credibility in journalism, which is essential for an informed public.

Gavin Newsom raised alarms about the dangers of firing live ammunition over a freeway, a warning that was dismissed by the Trump administration, which accused him of lying. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities regarding public safety and the implications of such actions on community trust and safety.

Jennifer Flavin, wife of actor Sylvester Stallone, recently sparked controversy by sharing her transphobic views during a discussion with former Trump spokesperson Katie Miller. This incident is significant as it highlights ongoing societal debates about transgender rights and the impact of public figures voicing such opinions, which can influence public perception and policy.

Audible has finalized the cast for its highly anticipated adaptation of J.K. Rowling's 'Harry Potter' series, featuring over 200 actors. Notably, veteran actor Bill Nighy, known for his role as Rufus Scrimgeour in the film series, will voice Horace Slughorn. This extensive casting not only brings beloved characters to life in a new format but also highlights the growing popularity of audiobooks, making the magical world of Harry Potter accessible to a wider audience.

EJAE, the talented singer and songwriter known for her role in 'KPop Demon Hunters,' has signed with WME for global representation in her music career. This move comes after her significant contributions to the film's soundtrack and her performance as the voice of the main character, Rumi. This partnership with WME is a promising step for EJAE, as it opens up new opportunities for her music and expands her reach in the industry.

A recent survey by UCLA's Center for Scholars & Storytellers reveals that Gen Z is leaning towards more animation and less sexual content in media. This year's report, titled 'Get Real: Relatability on Demand,' highlights the desire for authenticity and relatable representation among young audiences. These insights are crucial as they indicate a shift in media consumption preferences, suggesting that creators should focus on relatable storytelling to engage this demographic effectively.

Exciting news for Harry Potter fans! Pottermore Publishing and Audible have announced new cast members for the Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions. Notable actors like Bill Nighy, who played Rufus Scrimgeour in the films, will take on the role of Professor Slughorn, while Saoirse-Monica Jackson from Derry Girls will portray Professor Trelawney. This addition of talented voices not only enhances the listening experience but also brings beloved characters to life in a fresh way, making it a must-listen for both new and longtime fans.

The premiere of '9-1-1: Nashville' has made a strong impact, attracting 12.4 million viewers within its first week. This impressive figure marks a 231% increase from its initial same-day audience of 3.75 million. As part of Ryan Murphy's successful procedural franchise, the show joins the ranks of '9-1-1' and 'Grey’s Anatomy' in ABC's popular Thursday primetime lineup, highlighting its potential to engage audiences and contribute to the network's success.

A recent UCLA study reveals that teens are increasingly drawn to media that reflects their own lives, highlighting a shift in content preferences. The annual Teens & Screens survey, which involved 1,500 adolescents, shows that shows like 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' resonate with young viewers who want to see relatable stories. This trend is significant as it underscores the importance of representation in media, suggesting that when teens see characters and narratives that mirror their experiences, it can foster a deeper connection and understanding.