Variety to Honor Scarlett Johansson With the Legend & Groundbreaker Award at Newport Beach Film Festival

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.

In today's episode of the 'Daily Variety' podcast, Gene Maddaus reveals serious allegations against the Los Angeles Film School, claiming it engaged in extensive federal student loan fraud based on testimonies from former employees. This is significant as it raises concerns about the integrity of educational institutions and their impact on students' financial futures. Additionally, Jennifer Maas discusses the booming mobile gaming industry, highlighting Scopely's success, which contrasts sharply with the troubling news about the film school.

Hlynur Pálmason's new film 'Joan of Arc' has just released its official trailer ahead of its world premiere at the San Sebastián Film Festival. This 62-minute film is generating excitement as Pálmason, a favorite at the festival, showcases his talent once again. The film's debut in the Zabaltegi Tabakalera section highlights the festival's commitment to innovative storytelling, making it a significant event for both the director and film enthusiasts.

Denise Parkinson has taken on a significant role at Variety, where she will lead international business efforts, focusing on development and marketing across global markets. Based in London, her extensive experience in entertainment and media will be crucial as she drives Variety's initiatives in the U.K. and beyond. This move is important not only for Parkinson's career but also for Variety as it expands its influence in the competitive international landscape.

Variety magazine has been closely covering Jimmy Kimmel's recent suspension, suggesting that the publication is supportive of him during this time. The coverage highlights Kimmel's significance in the comedy world, especially as his time-off comes to an end. This situation is noteworthy as it reflects the media's role in shaping public perception of Kimmel and his comedic influence, particularly in the context of political discussions.

Variety has unveiled its 10 Actors to Watch for 2025, highlighting emerging talents like Milly Alcock from 'Supergirl' and Chase Infiniti from 'One Battle.' This annual list, which has previously recognized over 35 Academy Award winners, showcases actors poised for breakout roles in the upcoming awards season. It's exciting to see fresh faces gaining recognition, as they represent the future of cinema and bring new perspectives to storytelling.

In today's episode of the 'Daily Variety' podcast, Owen Gleiberman, Variety's chief film critic, discusses why Paul Thomas Anderson's new drama 'One Battle at a Time' resonates deeply in our current climate. This film captures the essence of our struggles and triumphs, making it a significant piece for audiences today. Additionally, Jem Aswad reflects on the influential career of Sylvia Rhone, celebrating her contributions to the music industry as she announces her latest endeavors. This conversation highlights the intersection of film and music, showcasing how both art forms respond to and shape our societal moments.

Sinclair has decided to preempt 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' on its ABC stations starting Tuesday night, replacing it with news programming. This decision comes as negotiations for the show's return are still ongoing. While fans may be disappointed, this move highlights the ongoing discussions between Sinclair and the show's producers, indicating that there may be a potential return in the future.

MTV has officially canceled 'Catfish: The TV Show' after nine seasons, a decision that has left fans disappointed. The show, which explored the complexities of online relationships and deception, was a staple of reality television. While MTV will continue to air past episodes, the cancellation marks the end of an era for a series that sparked important conversations about love and trust in the digital age. Producers are now looking for new homes for the show, but its absence will be felt by many.

The Manhattan Theatre Club has made a significant move by appointing Nicki Hunter as its first new Artistic Director in 53 years, succeeding Lynne Meadow, who has been a cornerstone of the organization. This change is not just a transition in leadership; it represents a fresh perspective for the theater, promising to bring new energy and ideas to the stage. Hunter's appointment is a pivotal moment for the club and the New York theater scene, as it signals a commitment to evolving while honoring a rich legacy.

The 2025 Ryder Cup is set to take place from September 26 to 28 at the iconic Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale, New York. Following Europe's victory in Rome in 2023, Team USA is eager to reclaim the trophy on their home turf. Fans can catch all the action starting Friday at 4 p.m. ET, with early matches available for streaming on Peacock. This event is significant not just for the competition but also for the camaraderie and national pride it fosters among golf enthusiasts.

Seth Meyers recently took a humorous jab at Karoline Leavitt, the press secretary for the Trump administration, after she called for an 'immediate investigation' into an escalator malfunction during Trump's visit to the UN. Meyers' witty response highlights the absurdity of the complaint, showcasing how comedy can shed light on political issues and the sometimes trivial concerns raised by public figures. This moment not only entertained viewers but also sparked conversations about the priorities of political discourse.

Jeff Probst, the host of Survivor, recently shared insights about the show's unique approach to ensuring that contestants do not know each other before the competition begins. This revelation highlights the lengths the series goes to create a fresh and unpredictable environment for players, which is crucial for maintaining the show's excitement and integrity. By fostering genuine interactions among contestants, Survivor continues to captivate audiences and enhance the reality TV experience.

Jimmy Kimmel's return to television has led to a significant boost in his ratings, much to the delight of fans eagerly awaiting his show. This surge in viewership highlights the strong connection Kimmel has with his audience and the excitement surrounding his comeback, making it a noteworthy event in the entertainment industry.

Nate Bargatze is standing by his charity bit from the 2025 Emmys, where he promised to donate $100,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of America while keeping speeches short. Despite facing criticism, he believes the segment was fun and engaging, showcasing a creative way to support a good cause. This approach not only entertained viewers but also highlighted the importance of charitable contributions in a light-hearted manner.