Margaret Cho Says Ellen DeGeneres Was ‘Not Nice to Me for Most of My Career’: ‘We Go Way Back’ but She Would Act ‘Like We Just Met’

The third edition of SXSW Sydney is rolling out the red carpet for Hollywood director Paul Feig—best known for hits like Bridesmaids and Spy—who’ll be honored with the festival’s first-ever Screen Pioneer Award. Fans can expect a deep dive into his career with a retrospective of his work, plus a keynote speech from the man himself. He’s just one of the big names joining the lineup, signaling a strong start for this year’s event.

Editor’s Note: SXSW Sydney is shaping up to be a major draw for film and pop culture enthusiasts, especially with a heavyweight like Feig in the spotlight. Honoring him not only adds star power but also cements the festival’s growing reputation as a key player in the global creative scene. For fans, it’s a chance to celebrate his legacy—and for the industry, it’s a nod to Sydney’s rising influence on the festival circuit.

Robin Birrell, a well-known YouTuber, is stepping into a new role as Co-Founder and Head of Partnerships at STARX MEDIA. Instead of being the face of the content, he’s now using his firsthand experience as a creator to help other influencers build sustainable careers behind the scenes. It’s a shift from starring in videos to shaping the business side of digital media.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another "influencer starts a company" story—it’s about how creators are using their platform knowledge to redefine the industry. Birrell’s move signals a growing trend where successful content creators are transitioning into leadership roles, potentially changing how influencer businesses are built and scaled. For aspiring creators, it’s a reminder that there’s life beyond the camera—and maybe even more impact.

Michael Schmidt, a respected leader in global media and president of Sipur Studios, passed away unexpectedly at 52. Known for his creative vision behind impactful documentaries like We Will Dance Again and The Devil’s Confession: The Lost Eichmann Tapes, Schmidt also held key roles at Red Arrow Studios. His death leaves a void in the industry, particularly for those who admired his storytelling and leadership.

Editor’s Note: Schmidt’s sudden passing is a loss not just for his colleagues but for audiences who benefited from his work. His projects often tackled heavy, thought-provoking subjects, blending artistry with journalism. For an industry already grappling with rapid changes, his absence underscores how much individual visionaries shape the stories we see—and how they’re told.

CBS and Paramount Global are doubling down on their defense against former President Trump’s lawsuit over a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris, calling his claims "meritless." They argue the interview is protected by the First Amendment and deny Trump’s accusation that edits turned it into "commercial speech." While settlement talks are reportedly happening behind the scenes, CBS isn’t backing down publicly—this could set a precedent for how media outlets handle legal challenges over editorial decisions.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about one interview—it’s a high-stakes tug-of-war over press freedom and how far public figures can go to control their media portrayal. If Trump’s lawsuit gains traction, it might embolden others to challenge editorial calls, but if CBS wins, it reinforces protections for journalists. Either way, the outcome could ripple through newsrooms and courtrooms alike.

Comedian Steph Tolev, known for her hilariously raunchy stand-up, is finally getting her moment in the spotlight with her new Netflix special Filth Queen. She first grabbed attention years ago when a viral clip caught the eye of Bill Burr, but her unapologetically gross humor has been brewing for much longer. Now, fans of boundary-pushing comedy can enjoy her wild, unfiltered style on a big platform.

Editor’s Note: Comedy thrives on voices that dare to be different, and Tolev’s rise signals a growing appetite for bold, unpolished humor. Her success isn’t just a win for her—it’s a nod to the fans and creators who love comedy that doesn’t play it safe. If you’re tired of cookie-cutter jokes, this special might be your next favorite thing.