Broadway enters an anxious time as labor action threatens to roil theaters

Penelope Milford, the talented actress known for her Oscar-nominated role in 'Coming Home' and her memorable performance as the school counselor in 'Heathers,' has passed away at the age of 77. Her family confirmed her death in Saugerties, NY, although the cause remains undisclosed. Milford's contributions to film and theater, including roles in 'Endless Love' and various Broadway productions, have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors.

Last week was a remarkable one for Broadway, with the iconic musical 'Hamilton' achieving its best week ever, grossing $4 million. This surge in revenue comes as four new shows, including 'Queen of Versailles' and 'Ragtime', began previews, contributing to a total box office gross of over $39 million. This not only highlights the enduring popularity of 'Hamilton' in its 10th year but also signals a vibrant fall season for Broadway, attracting audiences and boosting the theater economy.

SAG-AFTRA has just launched its new Verticals Agreement, specifically designed for serialized microdramas. This innovative contract aims to support productions with budgets under $300,000, providing essential protections and flexibility for creators, actors, and producers. This is a significant step forward for the industry, as it acknowledges the unique needs of smaller productions and helps foster creativity in storytelling.

CBS News is currently facing internal confusion as staff members receive mixed messages regarding how to respond to a controversial memo from new Editor in Chief Bari Weiss. Some producers are encouraging reporters to take action, while the Writers Guild of America has advised caution. This situation highlights the challenges within the newsroom as employees navigate differing directives, which could impact their reporting and overall morale.

A recent BBC study reveals that many viewers are skeptical about the broadcaster's independence from government influence. This perception issue is highlighted by the findings of the 'Our Future, Our BBC' survey, which involved over 872,000 participants. With only 43% expressing confidence in the BBC's autonomy, this raises significant concerns as the organization prepares to renew its Royal Charter. Understanding public sentiment is crucial for the BBC's future, as it navigates the challenges of maintaining trust and credibility.

In a significant blow to press freedom, reporters from major news outlets vacated the Pentagon after refusing to comply with new media restrictions imposed by the Trump administration. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions between the government and the press, particularly in the realm of national security reporting. The move not only affects the journalists involved but also raises concerns about transparency and accountability in government communications, which are vital for a functioning democracy.

The documentary 'The Last Class' featuring Robert Reich has become a significant success, grossing $700,000 at the box office. Reich, a well-known critic of Trump and a former Secretary of Labor, shares insights on why the film resonates with audiences. This success highlights the growing interest in political discourse and the impact of influential figures like Reich in shaping public opinion.

'South Park' has wrapped up its 27th season and is set to kick off Season 28 with a new episode on Comedy Central this Wednesday. This transition is exciting for fans as it promises fresh content and continued humor from the beloved series, keeping its legacy alive in the world of adult animation.

Celia Imrie, the beloved veteran actress, had a hilarious moment on the show 'Celebrity Traitors' when she accidentally let out a fart during a tense game. She humorously attributed the mishap to nerves, bringing a light-hearted touch to the competition. This incident not only showcased her charm but also reminded viewers that even in high-pressure situations, laughter can be the best remedy. It's moments like these that make reality TV entertaining and relatable.

Walter Salles is set to receive the prestigious Luminary Award at the Academy Museum Gala Tribute, an event that also honors notable figures like Penélope Cruz and Bruce Springsteen. Alejandro González Iñárritu, a multiple Oscar winner, has expressed his admiration for Salles, highlighting the significance of this recognition. This gala not only celebrates Salles' contributions to cinema but also reinforces the importance of artistic achievements in the film industry.