Jody Gerson and Phil Schermer Discuss Mental Health Initiatives and Partnering With Musicians at Variety Entertainment & Technology Summit

Metro Boomin is celebrating a significant legal victory after a civil court jury found him not liable in a rape lawsuit stemming from an incident nearly ten years ago in Los Angeles. He expressed his gratitude for the verdict, emphasizing his desire to move on from what he described as 'this nonsense.' This outcome not only clears his name but also highlights the complexities and challenges surrounding legal accusations in the entertainment industry.

In a recent episode of the Variety podcast 'Strictly Business,' industry leaders discussed the evolving landscape of streaming and broadcast series. This conversation, which took place during the annual Entertainment and Technology summit in Los Angeles, highlights how top executives are eager to experiment with traditional norms in television. This matters because it reflects a significant shift in how content is created and consumed, potentially leading to innovative programming that resonates with audiences.

The music world mourns the loss of Robert 'Rabbit' Jaramillo, the founder of Cannibal and the Headhunters, who passed away recently. This Chicano rock pioneer made a significant impact in 1965 when his band rose to fame, capturing the essence of a vibrant cultural movement. His contributions to music not only entertained but also paved the way for future generations of artists, making his legacy all the more important. Jaramillo's passing is a reminder of the rich history of Chicano rock and its influence on American music.

Micro-drama platforms like ReelShort are becoming crucial for aspiring actors and writers, offering them opportunities to showcase their talent in short, impactful narratives. In a recent production, actress Samantha Drews portrays a mother in a gripping scenario, highlighting the emotional depth these platforms can achieve. This trend matters because it not only provides a creative outlet for emerging artists but also caters to audiences seeking quick yet meaningful storytelling, potentially reshaping the entertainment landscape.

William Shatner, the iconic actor known for his role in 'Star Trek', has reassured fans that he is 'perfectly fine' following recent hospitalization reports from the Los Angeles area. This news is significant as it alleviates concerns among his fans and highlights his ongoing engagement with them, showcasing his resilience and positive spirit.

In a significant legal development, a Los Angeles Superior Court judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by stuntman Jimmy Sharp against Disney and former 20th TV executive Nissa Diederich. The lawsuit, which alleged retaliation and blacklisting, had been ongoing for nearly three years and sought over $1 million in damages. This ruling is important as it not only clears Disney and Diederich of the accusations but also highlights the challenges faced by individuals in the entertainment industry when pursuing legal action against powerful companies.

Big Thief has reached a significant milestone in their career with a remarkable performance at the Hollywood Bowl, showcasing their growth from humble beginnings in Los Angeles to a major venue. This achievement highlights their unique sound and the increasing recognition they are receiving in the music industry.

Metro Boomin, the acclaimed producer known for his collaborations with top artists like Drake and Future, has been cleared of all charges in a sexual assault case. A Los Angeles jury swiftly found him not liable on all four claims, which is significant not only for his career but also highlights the importance of due process in legal matters. This verdict allows him to continue his work in the music industry without the shadow of these allegations.

Exciting news for fans of the basketball comedy 'Running Point' as Netflix announces the addition of eight new cast members for Season 2, along with the promotion of Justin Theroux and Uche Agada to series regulars. This expansion not only enhances the show's dynamic but also signals Netflix's commitment to delivering quality content. With production already underway in Los Angeles, viewers can look forward to more engaging storylines and character development in the upcoming season.

Variety is excited to announce its first-ever Hollywood & Horror event on October 15 in Los Angeles, featuring keynote speaker Jason Blum of Blumhouse. This cocktail evening will celebrate the excellence in horror entertainment and the passionate fandom that surrounds this growing genre. The event also aligns with the release of Variety's inaugural Horror Impact Report on October 8, which will honor key contributors to the horror industry. This gathering not only highlights the significance of horror in film and television but also fosters community among fans and creators.

Café con reggaetón is taking the coffee scene by storm, with day parties popping up from California to New York. DJs like Allierockk are creating vibrant, all-ages spaces where people can enjoy music, dance, and of course, great coffee. This trend is significant as it not only promotes local artists but also fosters community in a fun and inclusive environment.

The Getty is making significant strides in preserving Los Angeles' Black heritage through various initiatives, such as designating cultural monuments and providing grants for Black modernist architecture. This is particularly important as it counters recent rollbacks in diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, ensuring that the rich history and contributions of the Black community are recognized and celebrated.

Madelaine Petsch shines in her role in 'The Strangers – Chapter 2,' showcasing her talent as a Scream Queen. The film, currently in theaters, continues to build excitement for the trilogy, leaving fans eager to discover the true antagonist in the upcoming third installment. Petsch's performance, combined with the film's suspenseful narrative, highlights her growing prominence in the horror genre.

Warner Bros has made history by becoming the first studio this year to surpass $4 billion at the global box office, thanks to the release of its seventh original film, Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another.' This milestone not only highlights the studio's successful year but also reflects the resilience and appeal of its films in a competitive market, showcasing the enduring popularity of cinema.

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco are set to tie the knot this fall, just nine months after their engagement. This wedding is not just another celebrity event; it showcases their unique love story and commitment to each other. Fans are excited to see how their relationship unfolds and what this special day will bring, making it a significant moment in pop culture.

Amber Smith has opened up about the heartbreaking experience following the tragic death of their son, River, who drowned six years ago. She revealed that her husband, country singer Granger Smith, faced a severe emotional struggle that led to a suicide attempt. This candid discussion sheds light on the profound impact of grief and mental health challenges, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and support during such devastating times.

Sean 'Diddy' Combs is currently awaiting a ruling from Judge Arun Subramanian regarding his request to have charges dropped before sentencing. This situation is significant as it could impact Diddy's legal standing and future, especially given his high-profile status in the entertainment industry. The outcome of this ruling may set a precedent for similar cases involving celebrities, making it a topic of interest for both fans and legal analysts.

Netflix is gearing up for an exciting October 2025, bringing a mix of original and returning titles that promise to entertain subscribers. Fans can look forward to the arrival of all three 'Austin Powers' films and the 'Beverly Hills Cop' series, among many other beloved titles. This lineup not only enhances the viewing experience but also highlights Netflix's commitment to providing diverse content that appeals to a wide audience.