#which David and Michael also co-hosted

[ingravinoveritas]

Michael and David both attended an event for the 3-year anniversary of Multibank at Winfield House in London last night!

[ncisfranchise-source]

“Tiva” is stepping up to the mic.

TVLine has learned exclusively that Cote de Pablo and Michael Weatherly — NCIS vets and stars of the upcoming NCIS: Tony & Ziva spinoff — are launching a Spotify video podcast titled Off Duty: An NCIS Rewatch.

In each weekly episode of Off Duty: An NCIS Rewatch, de Pablo and Weatherly will invite a special guest to join them as they rewatch iconic NCIS episodes.

Watch the Off Duty trailer below:

Present and past cast and guest stars making appearances include Sean Murray (who since Season 1, Episode 7 has played Special Agent Tim McGee), Brian Dietzen (Dr. Jimmy Palmer since late Season 1), Sasha Alexander (Special Agent Caitlin Todd in Seasons 1 and 2), Eric Christian Olsen and Daniela Ruah (NCIS: Los Angeles‘ Marty Deeks and Special Agent Kensi Blye), Season 13 NCIS guest star Jon Cryer and others, each of whom will join the hosts to reminisce about the long-running and well-watched procedural’s impact on television and pop culture, and reveal exclusive behind-the-scenes moments from making the TV series.

Premiering Tuesday, June 4 (soon!), the Spotify video podcast will also feature recurring and interactive segments that will further connect fans and NCIS loyalists.

Weatherly starred as NCIS‘ Special Agent Tony DiNozzo from the series’ backdoor pilot (as a JAG double episode) through the end of Season 13, and made a surprise cameo in the most recent season’s second episode.

De Pablo played Special Agent Ziva David from Season 3 through 10, surprised viewers with her own cameo in the Season 16 finale, and then appeared in multiple Season 17 episodes.

De Pablo and Weatherly are heading to Budapest this summer to begin filming Paramount+’s Europe-set NCIS: Tony & Ziva series, which finds the title characters “trying to raise their tween daughter and save the world.” John McNamara, whose past TV credits include co-creating Profit  Fastlane and The Magicians, penned the spinoff’s premiere and will serve as showrunner.

Off Duty: An NCIS Rewatch is produced by Spotify Studios in partnership with Rabbit Grin Productions, with Jeph Porter and Rob Holysz as executive producers. Natalie Holysz, Kasper Selvig and Derek Johnson also serve as producers.

[claudia1829things]

"TOWARDS ZERO" (2007) Review

"TOWARDS ZERO" (2007) Review

When it comes to the television adaptations of Agatha Christie’s Jane Marple novels, I tend to stick with those that featured the late Joan Hickson as the elderly sleuth. However, my curiosity got the best of me and I decided to watch a movie that starred Geraldine McEwan as Miss Jane Marple. And this movie is the 2007 adaptation of Christie’s 1944 novel called "Towards Zero".

The adaptation of Christie’s novel has drawn a good deal of criticism from purists. First of all, the novel is not a Jane Marple mystery. Instead, the main investigator in "Towards Zero" turned out to be Superintendant Battle, who had been featured in a few other Christie novels, including one Hercule Poirot tale - "Cards on the Table". However, Battle did not appear in the 2007 adaptation. Jane Marple replaced him as the story’s main detective, with the police represented by Alan Davies as one Superintendant Mallard. Since "Towards Zero" has always been one of my favorite Christie novels, I decided to give the movie a chance.

In "TOWARDS ZERO", Jane Marple is invited to a house party hosted by an old school friend named Lady Camilla Tressilian. Also included in the party are the following:

*Neville Strange – Professional tennis star and Lady Tressilian’s ward

*Kay Strange – Neville’s younger second wife

*Audrey Strange - Neville’s reserved ex-wife

*Thomas Royce – Owner of a Malaysian plantation and Audrey’s distant cousin

*Mary Aldin – Lady Tressilian’s companion

*Ted Latimer – Kay’s childhood friend

*Mr. Treves- Lady Tressilian’s friend and solicitor

The house party turned out to be a tense affair, due to emotions running rampant between the characters. Neville discovered that he was still in love with his first wife, Audrey. She seemed to harbor emotions for him, despite her reserved behavior. Thomas seemed jealous of Neville, due to his love for Audrey. Mary seemed attracted to Thomas and a little envious of Audrey. Kay was obviously jealous of Audrey. And Ted was also jealous of Neville, due to his love for Kay.

During a supper party, Mr. Treves recalled an old murder case in which a child had made deliberate preparations to kill another and make it look like an accident. That child, according to Mr. Treves, had a peculiar physical trait. All of the suspects possessed a peculiar physical trait. And following the supper party, Mr. Treves died from a heart attack after climbing some stairs that lead to his hotel room. Someone had placed a NOT IN SERVICE sign in front of his hotel’s elevator. Another day or two later, this same person brutally murdered old Lady Tressilian with a blow to the head.

As I had earlier stated, the 1944 novel has always been a favorite of mine. Christie had crafted a complex and original mystery filled with characters of great psychological depth. By inserting another Christie creation – Jane Marple – as the story’s main investigator, I feared that this 2007 adaptation would prove to be a bust. Imagine my surprise when my fears proved to be groundless. Thanks to director David Grindley and screenwriter Kevin Elyot, I found myself surprisingly satisfied with this movie. Despite a few changes – namely the post-World War II setting, Jane Marple as the story’s main detective, the deletion of a character named Andrew MacWhirter, the addition of another character named Diana, the new police officer in charge of the case – Superintendant Mallard, and the budding romance in the story’s conclusion that did not happen in the novel. Perhaps that is why I had enjoyed it so much. Both Grindley and Elyot recognized the novel’s first-rate plot and tried to follow it as closely as possible.

The production values for "TOWARDS ZERO" impressed me as well. Production designer Michael Pickwoad did an excellent job in re-creating Britain of the early-to-mid 1950s. And he was ably supported by Sue Gibson’s beautiful photography, which struck me as rich in color and sharp. Sheena Napier’s costumes not only captured the era perfectly, but also the personality of each character. I do have one quibble – namely Saffron Burrows’ hairstyle. I am aware that some women wore their hair slightly long past the shoulders. But I got the impression that the hairdresser could not decide whether to give Burrows a 1950s hairstyle or a modern one. Her hair struck me as a confusing mixture of the mid 20th century and the early 21st century.

The cast turned out better than I had expected. If I must be honest, I could not spot a bad performance amongst the entire cast. The whole lot of them - Julian Sands, Paul Nicholls, Julie Graham, Greg Rusedski, Guy Williams, Amelda Brown, Jo Woodcock and especially Tom Baker - gave first-rate performances. But there were a handful that really impressed me. One came from Saffron Burrows, who gave one of the most enigmatic and intense performances I have ever encountered in a Christie film. I could never tell whether her character was guilty of the two murders or not. And Burrows did a superb job in conveying this ambiguity of the Audrey Strange character with very little dialogue. I was also impressed by Zoe Tapper’s portrayal of the more extroverted Kay Strange. Tapper could have easily given an over-the-top performance, considering the type of character she had portrayed. But the actress conveyed Kay’s passionate nature without turning the character into a one-note scream fest. I also enjoyed Alan Davies as Superintendant Mallard, the new police investigator in this mystery. I not only enjoyed his wit, but also his transformation from his contempt toward Jane Marple’s investigative skills to a full partnership with the elderly amateur sleuth. And Eileen Atkins provided a great deal of comic relief as the second victim, Lady Camilla Tressilian. Not only did she provide much of the story’s sharp humor, Atkins also captured the character’s bombastic and arrogant nature. Her Lady Tressilian struck me as a modern day Lady Catherine de Bourgh, but with a stronger moral center.

But I believe the two best performances came from Greg Wise and Geraldine McEwan as Jane Marple. I found myself completely surprised by Wise’s impressive portrayal of the tennis pro with the two wives, Neville Strange. His performance perfectly portrayed Neville as the complex force of nature that had a major impact upon the other characters in "TOWARDS ZERO", without indulging in any hammy acting. But I was more than impressed by Geraldine McEwan’s portrayal of Jane Marple. I had seen McEwan’s portrayal of Miss Marple in "THE SITFORD MYSTERY", and found her performance ridiculously mannered and annoying. No such exaggerated mannerisms marred McEwan’s performance in "TOWARDS ZERO". The actress gave a subtle performance laced with subtle humor and her character’s intelligence. One of McEwan’s best moments featured very little dialogue on her part in a scene between Miss Marple and the verbose Lady Tressilian, inside the latter’s bedroom.

Most Agatha Christie purists might automatically dismiss this adaptation of "TOWARDS ZERO". Especially since the script changed the main investigator from the literary Superintendent Battle to a cinematic Jane Marple. But despite this major change, along with another that included a romance that emerged in the film’s final scene; David Grindley’s direction and Kevin Elyot’s script remained surprisingly faithful to Agatha Christie’s novel. Normally, I would care less about changes in an adaptation of a novel. But in the case of "TOWARDS ZERO", the choices made by Elyot worked in the movie's favor.

[fuckyeahvanhalen86-95]

Wolfgang Van Halen has responded to comments recently made by David Lee Roth, in which he claimed the Mammoth WVH leader displayed antisocial behavior and poor decision-making during Van Halen’s final tour.

Wolfgang was sounded out about the “uncomfortable topic” while in conversation with The Morning X With Barnes & Leslie. During the interview, one of the hosts pointedly asked, “What the hell is going on with the hatred from David Lee Roth?”

The question was related to some of Roth’s recent comments, which saw the band’s former vocalist (voice-acting as Jesus at the time, for some reason) backhandedly remark he “would have had this job even if my dad wasn’t God”.

It was a jibe from Roth, who was clearly taking a dig at the fact Wolfgang had been hired as the Van Halen bass guitar player to play alongside his father, the late Eddie Van Halen.

In another clip, Roth said of Wolfgang, “This fuckin' kid. He's complaining the entire tour like I'm not paying enough attention to him on stage. He's complaining to everybody around me – the business manager, the security guy, the clothing lady – 'Dave's not paying enough attention to me.’”

When quizzed over why Roth was calling him out “in such a vile fashion”, Wolfgang responded: “I guess I'm honored he even thinks about me as much as he seems to.”

In response to the unprovoked outburst, Wolfgang also drew attention to some of Roth’s previously misinformed and wholly outlandish comments regarding the Van Halen name, and said nothing he says can be taken at face value.

“I guess you have to take what he says with a grain of salt,” Wolfgang replied, “considering he also said that he wrote [Eddie's iconic instrumental] Eruption and came up with the Frankenstein stripes [the pattern that famously adorns Eddie's guitar].”

To that latter point, Roth was called out back in 2021 when he posted a seven-minute video in which he recalled the origin story behind the Frankenstein. In the video, he claimed he was the brains behind the iconic striped design.

However, his tale didn’t add up, and was later disputed by Chris Gill – Guitar World contributor, EVH guitar expert and co-author of Eruption: Conversations with Eddie Van Halen – who blasted his story as a “complete revisionist fabrication”.

“I guess that’s all I can say,” Wolfgang continued in his recent interview. “I seem to have been born into this Van Halen drama that has come way before me. I guess now that my dad isn't here to be a target, I guess he went to the next best thing.”

Wolfgang was also asked about the potential for a Van Halen reunion, or honorary tour – not with Roth – in the future. As he has done in the past, though, the EVH brand torchbearer shot down the possibility.

“It’s impossible to have a reunion,” he stated. “No way. No, I don’t want to play that music without my dad.”

As such, the closest thing we’ll probably get to an honorary Van Halen tribute is the upcoming Best Of All Worlds tour, which will see Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani and Michael Anthony share the stage for some Van Halen-filled setlists.

[docrotten]

LUST FOR A VAMPIRE (1971) – Episode 196 – Decades Of Horror 1970s

“He had a heart attack.” And you get a heart attack! Everybody gets a heart attack! Is that normal? Join your faithful Grue Crew – Doc Rotten, Bill Mulligan, Chad Hunt, and Jeff Mohr – as they count the heart attacks while they continue their reverse trek through Hammer’s Karnstein Trilogy with Lust for a Vampire (1971).

Decades of Horror 1970s Episode 196 – Lust for a Vampire (1971)

Join the Crew on the Gruesome Magazine YouTube channel! Subscribe today! And click the alert to get notified of new content! https://youtube.com/gruesomemagazine

Decades of Horror 1970s is partnering with the WICKED HORROR TV CHANNEL (https://wickedhorrortv.com/) which now includes video episodes of the podcast and is available on Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, and its online website across all OTT platforms, as well as mobile, tablet, and desktop.

In 1830, forty years to the day since the last manifestation of their dreaded vampirism, the Karnstein heirs use the blood of an innocent to bring forth the evil that is the beautiful Mircalla, or as she was in 1710, Carmilla.

  Director: Jimmy Sangster

Writers: Tudor Gates (screenplay); J. Sheridan Le Fanu (based on characters created by)

Selected Cast:

Barbara Jefford as Countess Herritzen

Ralph Bates as Giles Barton

Suzanna Leigh as Janet Playfair

Yutte Stensgaard as Mircalla / Carmilla Karnstein

Michael Johnson as Richard Lestrange

Helen Christie as Miss Simpson

Mike Raven as Count Karnstein (dubbed by  Valentine Dyall)

Christopher Cunningham as Coachman

Harvey Hall as Inspector Heinrich

Michael Brennan as Landlord

Pippa Steel as Susan Pelley

Judy Matheson as Amanda McBride

Caryl Little as Isabel Courtney

David Healy as Raymond Pelley

Jonathan Cecil as Arthur Biggs

Erik Chitty as Professor Herz (as Eric Chitty)

Jack Melford as Bishop

Christopher Neame as Hans

Kirsten Lindholm as Peasant Girl

Luan Peters as Trudi

In the Seventies, Hammer Films struggled to find its way as horror films moved away from gothic horror into modern-day terrors; however, the company famous for Dracula and Frankenstein did earn some success with a trio of films referred to as The Karnstein Trilogy. The Grue Crew settles in to revisit the middle entry, Lust for a Vampire, which follows Vampire Lovers (1970) and leads into Twins of Evil (1971). Unfortunately, the film was plagued with misfortune from the onset: both Peter Cushing and Ingrid Pitt refused to return; the original director, Terence Fisher, suffered injuries when he was hit by a car and was replaced at the last minute by Jimmy Sangster; the director and the writer clashed with producers who insisted on including the pop song “Strange Love.” Even co-star Ralph Bates called the feature, “One of the worst films ever made.” Certainly, there must be some highlights. Certainly…

At the time of this writing, Lust for a Vampire is available to stream from  Shudder, AMC+, Tubi, and Flix Fling. The movie is also available on physical media as a Blu-ray from Shout! Factory.

Gruesome Magazine’s Decades of Horror 1970s is part of the Decades of Horror two-week rotation with The Classic Era and the 1980s. In two weeks, the next episode, chosen by Doc, will be Kingdom of the Spiders (1977). William Shatner and 5,000 spiders! What could go wrong?

We want to hear from you – the coolest, grooviest fans: comment on the site or email the Decades of Horror 1970s podcast hosts at feedback@gruesomemagazine.com. 

Check out this episode!

[robertrabiah]

Robert Rabiah was nominated for Best Actor in a film alongside Geoffrey Rush, Hugo Weaving, Sam Neill and David Wenham at the 2012 Australian Film Institute/Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards, 2011 Inside Film Awards, and is a 2xtime Australian Academy Awards candidate - 2023/2024.

Robert Rabiah has also won Best Actor (Monaco Charity Film Festival) for his performance in Face to Face (2011) by Michael Rymer, Best Writer at the Australian Writer's Guild (Monte Miller Award) and Best Writer at the National Literary Awards (Fellowship of Australian Writers)

Robert Rabiah's other notable distinctions include a top 5 Award at the first Spaamart (Screen Producers Association of Australia Film Market) a Spark Award given by the Australian Film Commission, a Cannes World Film Festival nomination (Best Feature Doco - 2023) a candidate at the Australian Academy Awards (Best Feature Doco - 2023/2024) a candidate at the Australian Academy Awards (Best Supporting Actor in a film - 2023/2024) and a nomination for Best Actor in an ensemble at the annual Australian Equity Ensemble Awards (the only actor-voted awards in Australia) for his performance in Safe Harbour (2018), which went on to win for Best TV Movie/Mini-Series at the International Emmy® Awards.

Robert Rabiah has appeared in some of Australia's best loved films and television shows such as, Chopper (2000) with Eric Bana, Deadline Gallipoli (2015) with Sam Worthington, Jack Irish (2016) with Guy Pearce, Ali's Wedding (2017) with Osamah Sami, Below (2019) with Anthony LaPaglia, critically-acclaimed series Secret City (2016) with Anna Torv (Foxtel/Netflix/Matchbox Pictures), Safe Harbour (2018) (Hulu/AppleTV/BBC4/SBS) directed by Glendyn Ivin, Netflix/Peacock/NBCUniversal TV series Irreverent (2022) and feature film Land of Bad (2024) with Russell Crowe and Liam Hemsworth.

Robert Rabiah's passion for film was inspired by growing up across the road from a cinema and he was mentored early in his career by Dominic Minghella and Robin Swicord. Robert Rabiah is also a co-host of the award-winning podcast The ShowBiz Podcast with Robert Rabiah and Joey Coley-Sowry (2019) (ranked in the top 12 Australian podcasts), which revolves around the entertainment industry.

Robert Rabiah's work for production giants such as Netflix, Amazon, Stan, NBCUniversal, Hulu, Foxtel, Peacock, Paramount+, Madman Entertainment, AppleTV, Syfy, BBC4, SBS, ABC and Michael De Luca Productions has ensured both global releases and critical acclaim for his performances.

Robert Rabiah has also branched out into music and filmmaking - had a number 28 hit on the Australian dance charts in the 90's with pop outfit RMR - (Song released by Standard Records, Australia) and his original work has been shown at film festivals, received theatrical releases, and been distributed internationally by Amazon Prime.

[cleverhottubmiracle]

9 Genesis House & Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop Launch A Lush Forest Experience Genesis House‘s latest installation received a helping hand from Gwyneth Paltrow!  Paltrow’s Goop and Genesis teamed up for “The Forest Within” display, which uses visual displays to transport attendees into a green Korean forest. Paltrow’s voice can be heard throughout the installation as she guides guests through the space—which includes LED light visuals of plants and tigers inspired by Korea’s Sobaek Mountains, plus greenery displays (including Paltrow’s fave peonies!) by Jeff Leatham—in the spirit of balance, mindfulness, and serenity. The space concludes with a reflecting pool, where guests can practice mindfulness IRL. You can take a break and discover the space for yourself at Genesis House until June 29. But that’s not all; also until June 29, the building’s Genesis House Restaurant will feature themed dishes including Mugwort gulrim mandu, a dessert, a ginseng petrichor soju-based cocktail, and zero-proof hanbang ppuli cocktail. “I’ve always been drawn to the ways technology can deepen our connection to wellness, and with  ‘The Forest Within,’ Genesis House has elevated that idea into something truly transportive,” Paltrow said in a statement. “There are very few places to encounter this kind of immersive, meditative experience, especially in the heart of New York City. Collaborating on this project has been an incredible opportunity to push the boundaries of what wellness can look and feel like, and I’m thrilled to invite people into this serene, multisensory world we’ve created.” All images: Courtesy of Genesis House Sutton Foster Wows The Crowd at The New York Philharmonic Spring Gala On Tuesday night, the New York Philharmonic hosted its annual Spring gala and concert in David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, honoring philanthropists Gurnee and Marjorie Hart and celebrating over 50 years of Mr. Hart’s service on the Board of Directors. The orchestra opened the evening’s concert with a performance of the overture to Bernstein’s Candide. Tony award winner Sutton Foster then sang an hour of American songbook classics and selections from her Broadway hits from Once Upon A Mattress to The Music Man. Guests included Matías Tarnopolsky (President & CEO, New York Philharmonic), Gurnee Hart (honoree and Board Director Emeritus, New York Philharmonic) and Marjorie Hart, Peter W. May (Co-Chairman, New York Philharmonic) and Leni May, Oscar L. Tang (Co-Chairman, New York Philharmonic) and H.M. Agnes Hsu-Tang, Alexander Klabin (Board Member, New York Philharmonic, and Gala Co-Chair) and Kristen Klabin (Gala Co-Chair), James L. Nederlander (Board Member, New York Philharmonic, and Gala Co-Chair) and Margo M. Nederlander (Gala Co-Chair), Sutton Foster, Michael Rafter (conductor), Mariko Silver (President and CEO, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts), and Bill Pullman.  The gala raised more than $1.8 million for the Philharmonic. Sutton Foster (Courtesy)   Sutton Foster (Getty Images) Nicolle Austin, Alex Klabin Kristen Klabin and Bill Pullman (Getty Images) The Wall Street Hotel Opens A Reimagined Bar Tontine The Wall Street Hotel had a bash to celebrate the newly reimagined Bar Tontine rooftop. The event welcomed Christian Siriano, Mischa Barton, Kelly Killoren, Alex Lundqvist, Josephine Skriver, Influencer, Sophie Sumner, Ryan Cooper, Cody Belew, Lisa Raden, and more! “With Bar Tontine, our vision was to create more than just a rooftop – we wanted to offer an experience that captures the spirit of New York while allowing guests to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in something vibrant and unexpected,” said Prince A. Sanders, General Manager of The Wall Street Hotel. “This event was a celebration of that spirit – bringing together amazing energy, bold flavors, and unforgettable moments that spark connection and create community. We’re excited to officially open Bar Tontine and to welcome New Yorkers and visitors throughout the season.”   Fernando Jorge’s Dazzling Jewels Sparkle At Obvio Obvio received a burst of glamour from Fernando Jorge on Wednesday night! The designer showcased his latest fine jewelry collection, “Vertex,” with a chic cocktail party in the giraffe-spotted midtown lounge. Attendees discovered (and tried on!) Jorge’s gleaming diamond designs while enjoying a range of wine and cocktails, and made sure to snap well-lit mirror selfies at the venue’s all-red vanities. Guests included Dakota and Aliana Lohan, Dylana and Natalie Lim Suarez, Lynn Yaeger, Jessica Iredale, Larissa Gargaro, Sabine Getty, Michal Kurtis, Trang Trihn, Leon Gray, and more. All images: Courtesy of Fernando Jorge  Galvan Kicks Off Frieze New York With A Slick LES Bash It-girl fashion brand Galvan‘s Anna Christin-Haas and Katherine Holmgren started Frieze New York with a splash, hosting a late-night party with Unemployed’s Cecile Winckler and Sophie Tabet. Held at a new, unnamed Lower East Side space by Nur Khan, attendees mingled with Lalo Tequila, Belvedere Vodka, and Hendrick’s Gin cocktails. In the spirit of artistic individuality, everyone was invited to draw and paint on the space’s walls—and, in essence, turned the space into a piece of art itself! Guests including Charlotte Groeneveld, Agathe Mougin, Elena Ora, Jillian Hervey, Kyra Kennedy, Diana Louise Bartlett, Nur Khan, Dylan Hales, Scott Lipps, and more danced the night away to beats by Agathe Mougin and Mona Matsuoka. All images: Miguel McSongwe/BFA & Patrycia Lucas Kallmeyer Opens On Madison Avenue With A Cool-Girl Café Party Daniella Kallmeyer has set up shop on the UES! The designer officially opened the doors to her namesake brand’s second boutique this week, but kicked the celebrations off early with an exclusive party on Thursday night. Guests began the evening with an early viewing of the space, which features a mix of modern French and Art Deco aesthetics by interior designer Louis Rambert, custom store scent by Kindred Black. After mingling with Via Carota Cra Cocktails’ Aperol Spritzes and French 75’s, everyone headed to Three Guys diner—dubbed “Café Kallmeyer” in a special takeover for the occasion. Inside the diner, everyone enjoyed BODY Vodka martinis, YOLA Mezcal, and plenty of burgers, French fries, grilled cheese, chicken tenders, and green salads—plus a Kallmeyer-themed gelato cart! DJ Rae Sada kept the chic crowd dancing the night away, which included Chloe Fineman, Denèe Benton, Laura Brown, Louisa Jacobson, Sarita Choudhury, Tommy Dorfman, Molly Gordon, Coco Baudelle, Busy Phillips, Patina Miller, Kate Young, Sarah Hoover, Sandy Brondello, Janicza Bravo, Rennae Stubbs, Megan Rapinoe, Sue Bird, Brianna Lance, Charlotte Groenveld, Christie Tyler, Christina Grasso, Liana Satenstein, Kiane von Mueffling, Nina Runsdorf, Leandra Medine, and more. All images: BFA.com The Cultivist Celebrates 10 Years At New York Art Week  Cheers! Members club and agency The Cultivist celebrated its tenth anniversary with a special party at Prince George Ballroom. Held on Wednesday during New York Art Week, the soirée paid homage to the agency’s values of community and inclusive art. Tony Lewis created special cocktails for the occasion, which guests enjoyed with popcorn after kickoff remarks by Chris Watts and CEO Marlies Verhoeven. Later on, the event nodded to the agency’s first art boxing event with a boxing ring that hosted live “match” performances curated by Joey Lico and Cheryl Pope, featuring artists Jesus Benavente, Judith Bernstein, Ludovic Nkoth, Eduardo Sarabia, Phaan Howng and Rachel Martino, Caleb Hahne Quintana and Rogelio,. Shaun Leonardo and Cheryl Pope, and Hiba Schahbaz—with Ayana Evans serving as emcee. Attendees included Pat Mahoney, Waris Ahluwalia, Coco Mellors, Eileen Guggenheim, Isabelle Wilkinson, Madeline Haddon, Nathalie and Charles de Gunzburg, Casey Fremont, Yvonne Force & Leo Villareal, Michelle Hellman and Adam Cohen, Allison Glenn, Alex Logsdail, Zoe Buckman, Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, Toby Milstein, Laurence Milstein, Charlotte Kidd, Alex and Solange Assouline, Kyle de Woody, BJ Topol, Lexi Bowes Lyon, Curtis Kulig, Zani Gugelman, Sheree Hovespian, Samuel Levi Jones, Gisela Colón, Harold Mendez, and Jessica Chestman.  All images: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com The Guggenheim Young Collectors Council Party Lights Up The UES On Thursday night, the Guggenheim shut down for its third annual Guggenheim Young Collectors Council Party, celebrating this year’s LG Guggenheim Award-winning artist Ayoung Kim. Hosted in paartersnhip with LG Display, the night found attendees exploring the Guggenheim’s soaring circular floors while admiring its current exhibit, Rashid Johnson: A Poem for Deep Thinkers, as well as LaJuné McMillian’s curated “lavender dream”-themed experiences and a MIND GAMES fragrance activation. On the museum’s rotunda floor, guests also took in a special dance performance featuring Rena Anakwe, Zeelie Brown, LAMB, RaFia Santana, Maryann Talavera, Renaldo Maurice, and Roobi Gaskins, followed by tarot card and aura readings, sliders, and plenty of themed cocktails aligning with the night’s “Cosmic-core” dress code. All funds raised from the evening notably went to the Guggenheim New York and the Young Collectors Council Art Fund. Attendees included Hannah Gottlieb-Graham, Alyssa Yoon, Tiffany Zabludowicz, Sophia Cohen, Olivia Fialkow Phillips, Scout Willis, Talullah Willis, Rumer Willis, Lucas Hoffmann, Natalie Jackson, Chloe and Dillon Lawson-Johnston, Tschabalala Self, Moses Sumney, Alexander Hankin, Seun Aboderin, Ella Emhoff, Jon Gray, Melissa Mathias, Deidrea A. Miller, Casey Bergen, Moneifa Cherice Nance, Kevin Rezvani, Gabrielle Richardson, Paula Sanders, Dakota Sica, Anastasiya Siro, Casey Kohlberg, Kali Steinman, Cecily Waud, Eden Xu-Martinez, Eva Phan, Mariët Westermann, Naomi Beckwith, Wendy Fisher, Seol Park, Sarah Morris, Ilana Savdie, Rachel Rossin, Liz Magic Laser, Agnieszka Kurant, Gabriel Florenz, Ilana Savdie, Agnieszka Kurant, Ella Snyder, Sophia Wilson, Clara Perlmutter, Rachel Rossin, Liz Magic Laser, Joe Ando, Nikita Redkar, Taylor Rosen, and more. All images: Hannah Turner Harts/BFA.com & Alex Marcano/BFA.com Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on all the latest fashion news and juicy industry gossip. // Allow detecting when fb api is loaded. function Deferred() var self = this; this.promise = new Promise( function( resolve, reject ) self.reject = reject; self.resolve = resolve; ); window.fbLoaded = new Deferred(); window.fbAsyncInit = function() FB.init( appId : '374762726405868', autoLogAppEvents : true, xfbml : true, version : 'v3.0' ); window.fbLoaded.resolve(); ; (function(d, s, id) var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = " fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); (document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk')); Source link

[norajworld]

9 Genesis House & Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop Launch A Lush Forest Experience Genesis House‘s latest installation received a helping hand from Gwyneth Paltrow!  Paltrow’s Goop and Genesis teamed up for “The Forest Within” display, which uses visual displays to transport attendees into a green Korean forest. Paltrow’s voice can be heard throughout the installation as she guides guests through the space—which includes LED light visuals of plants and tigers inspired by Korea’s Sobaek Mountains, plus greenery displays (including Paltrow’s fave peonies!) by Jeff Leatham—in the spirit of balance, mindfulness, and serenity. The space concludes with a reflecting pool, where guests can practice mindfulness IRL. You can take a break and discover the space for yourself at Genesis House until June 29. But that’s not all; also until June 29, the building’s Genesis House Restaurant will feature themed dishes including Mugwort gulrim mandu, a dessert, a ginseng petrichor soju-based cocktail, and zero-proof hanbang ppuli cocktail. “I’ve always been drawn to the ways technology can deepen our connection to wellness, and with  ‘The Forest Within,’ Genesis House has elevated that idea into something truly transportive,” Paltrow said in a statement. “There are very few places to encounter this kind of immersive, meditative experience, especially in the heart of New York City. Collaborating on this project has been an incredible opportunity to push the boundaries of what wellness can look and feel like, and I’m thrilled to invite people into this serene, multisensory world we’ve created.” All images: Courtesy of Genesis House Sutton Foster Wows The Crowd at The New York Philharmonic Spring Gala On Tuesday night, the New York Philharmonic hosted its annual Spring gala and concert in David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, honoring philanthropists Gurnee and Marjorie Hart and celebrating over 50 years of Mr. Hart’s service on the Board of Directors. The orchestra opened the evening’s concert with a performance of the overture to Bernstein’s Candide. Tony award winner Sutton Foster then sang an hour of American songbook classics and selections from her Broadway hits from Once Upon A Mattress to The Music Man. Guests included Matías Tarnopolsky (President & CEO, New York Philharmonic), Gurnee Hart (honoree and Board Director Emeritus, New York Philharmonic) and Marjorie Hart, Peter W. May (Co-Chairman, New York Philharmonic) and Leni May, Oscar L. Tang (Co-Chairman, New York Philharmonic) and H.M. Agnes Hsu-Tang, Alexander Klabin (Board Member, New York Philharmonic, and Gala Co-Chair) and Kristen Klabin (Gala Co-Chair), James L. Nederlander (Board Member, New York Philharmonic, and Gala Co-Chair) and Margo M. Nederlander (Gala Co-Chair), Sutton Foster, Michael Rafter (conductor), Mariko Silver (President and CEO, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts), and Bill Pullman.  The gala raised more than $1.8 million for the Philharmonic. Sutton Foster (Courtesy)   Sutton Foster (Getty Images) Nicolle Austin, Alex Klabin Kristen Klabin and Bill Pullman (Getty Images) The Wall Street Hotel Opens A Reimagined Bar Tontine The Wall Street Hotel had a bash to celebrate the newly reimagined Bar Tontine rooftop. The event welcomed Christian Siriano, Mischa Barton, Kelly Killoren, Alex Lundqvist, Josephine Skriver, Influencer, Sophie Sumner, Ryan Cooper, Cody Belew, Lisa Raden, and more! “With Bar Tontine, our vision was to create more than just a rooftop – we wanted to offer an experience that captures the spirit of New York while allowing guests to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in something vibrant and unexpected,” said Prince A. Sanders, General Manager of The Wall Street Hotel. “This event was a celebration of that spirit – bringing together amazing energy, bold flavors, and unforgettable moments that spark connection and create community. We’re excited to officially open Bar Tontine and to welcome New Yorkers and visitors throughout the season.”   Fernando Jorge��s Dazzling Jewels Sparkle At Obvio Obvio received a burst of glamour from Fernando Jorge on Wednesday night! The designer showcased his latest fine jewelry collection, “Vertex,” with a chic cocktail party in the giraffe-spotted midtown lounge. Attendees discovered (and tried on!) Jorge’s gleaming diamond designs while enjoying a range of wine and cocktails, and made sure to snap well-lit mirror selfies at the venue’s all-red vanities. Guests included Dakota and Aliana Lohan, Dylana and Natalie Lim Suarez, Lynn Yaeger, Jessica Iredale, Larissa Gargaro, Sabine Getty, Michal Kurtis, Trang Trihn, Leon Gray, and more. All images: Courtesy of Fernando Jorge  Galvan Kicks Off Frieze New York With A Slick LES Bash It-girl fashion brand Galvan‘s Anna Christin-Haas and Katherine Holmgren started Frieze New York with a splash, hosting a late-night party with Unemployed’s Cecile Winckler and Sophie Tabet. Held at a new, unnamed Lower East Side space by Nur Khan, attendees mingled with Lalo Tequila, Belvedere Vodka, and Hendrick’s Gin cocktails. In the spirit of artistic individuality, everyone was invited to draw and paint on the space’s walls—and, in essence, turned the space into a piece of art itself! Guests including Charlotte Groeneveld, Agathe Mougin, Elena Ora, Jillian Hervey, Kyra Kennedy, Diana Louise Bartlett, Nur Khan, Dylan Hales, Scott Lipps, and more danced the night away to beats by Agathe Mougin and Mona Matsuoka. All images: Miguel McSongwe/BFA & Patrycia Lucas Kallmeyer Opens On Madison Avenue With A Cool-Girl Café Party Daniella Kallmeyer has set up shop on the UES! The designer officially opened the doors to her namesake brand’s second boutique this week, but kicked the celebrations off early with an exclusive party on Thursday night. Guests began the evening with an early viewing of the space, which features a mix of modern French and Art Deco aesthetics by interior designer Louis Rambert, custom store scent by Kindred Black. After mingling with Via Carota Cra Cocktails’ Aperol Spritzes and French 75’s, everyone headed to Three Guys diner—dubbed “Café Kallmeyer” in a special takeover for the occasion. Inside the diner, everyone enjoyed BODY Vodka martinis, YOLA Mezcal, and plenty of burgers, French fries, grilled cheese, chicken tenders, and green salads—plus a Kallmeyer-themed gelato cart! DJ Rae Sada kept the chic crowd dancing the night away, which included Chloe Fineman, Denèe Benton, Laura Brown, Louisa Jacobson, Sarita Choudhury, Tommy Dorfman, Molly Gordon, Coco Baudelle, Busy Phillips, Patina Miller, Kate Young, Sarah Hoover, Sandy Brondello, Janicza Bravo, Rennae Stubbs, Megan Rapinoe, Sue Bird, Brianna Lance, Charlotte Groenveld, Christie Tyler, Christina Grasso, Liana Satenstein, Kiane von Mueffling, Nina Runsdorf, Leandra Medine, and more. All images: BFA.com The Cultivist Celebrates 10 Years At New York Art Week  Cheers! Members club and agency The Cultivist celebrated its tenth anniversary with a special party at Prince George Ballroom. Held on Wednesday during New York Art Week, the soirée paid homage to the agency’s values of community and inclusive art. Tony Lewis created special cocktails for the occasion, which guests enjoyed with popcorn after kickoff remarks by Chris Watts and CEO Marlies Verhoeven. Later on, the event nodded to the agency’s first art boxing event with a boxing ring that hosted live “match” performances curated by Joey Lico and Cheryl Pope, featuring artists Jesus Benavente, Judith Bernstein, Ludovic Nkoth, Eduardo Sarabia, Phaan Howng and Rachel Martino, Caleb Hahne Quintana and Rogelio,. Shaun Leonardo and Cheryl Pope, and Hiba Schahbaz—with Ayana Evans serving as emcee. Attendees included Pat Mahoney, Waris Ahluwalia, Coco Mellors, Eileen Guggenheim, Isabelle Wilkinson, Madeline Haddon, Nathalie and Charles de Gunzburg, Casey Fremont, Yvonne Force & Leo Villareal, Michelle Hellman and Adam Cohen, Allison Glenn, Alex Logsdail, Zoe Buckman, Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, Toby Milstein, Laurence Milstein, Charlotte Kidd, Alex and Solange Assouline, Kyle de Woody, BJ Topol, Lexi Bowes Lyon, Curtis Kulig, Zani Gugelman, Sheree Hovespian, Samuel Levi Jones, Gisela Colón, Harold Mendez, and Jessica Chestman.  All images: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com The Guggenheim Young Collectors Council Party Lights Up The UES On Thursday night, the Guggenheim shut down for its third annual Guggenheim Young Collectors Council Party, celebrating this year’s LG Guggenheim Award-winning artist Ayoung Kim. Hosted in paartersnhip with LG Display, the night found attendees exploring the Guggenheim’s soaring circular floors while admiring its current exhibit, Rashid Johnson: A Poem for Deep Thinkers, as well as LaJuné McMillian’s curated “lavender dream”-themed experiences and a MIND GAMES fragrance activation. On the museum’s rotunda floor, guests also took in a special dance performance featuring Rena Anakwe, Zeelie Brown, LAMB, RaFia Santana, Maryann Talavera, Renaldo Maurice, and Roobi Gaskins, followed by tarot card and aura readings, sliders, and plenty of themed cocktails aligning with the night’s “Cosmic-core” dress code. All funds raised from the evening notably went to the Guggenheim New York and the Young Collectors Council Art Fund. Attendees included Hannah Gottlieb-Graham, Alyssa Yoon, Tiffany Zabludowicz, Sophia Cohen, Olivia Fialkow Phillips, Scout Willis, Talullah Willis, Rumer Willis, Lucas Hoffmann, Natalie Jackson, Chloe and Dillon Lawson-Johnston, Tschabalala Self, Moses Sumney, Alexander Hankin, Seun Aboderin, Ella Emhoff, Jon Gray, Melissa Mathias, Deidrea A. Miller, Casey Bergen, Moneifa Cherice Nance, Kevin Rezvani, Gabrielle Richardson, Paula Sanders, Dakota Sica, Anastasiya Siro, Casey Kohlberg, Kali Steinman, Cecily Waud, Eden Xu-Martinez, Eva Phan, Mariët Westermann, Naomi Beckwith, Wendy Fisher, Seol Park, Sarah Morris, Ilana Savdie, Rachel Rossin, Liz Magic Laser, Agnieszka Kurant, Gabriel Florenz, Ilana Savdie, Agnieszka Kurant, Ella Snyder, Sophia Wilson, Clara Perlmutter, Rachel Rossin, Liz Magic Laser, Joe Ando, Nikita Redkar, Taylor Rosen, and more. All images: Hannah Turner Harts/BFA.com & Alex Marcano/BFA.com Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on all the latest fashion news and juicy industry gossip. // Allow detecting when fb api is loaded. function Deferred() var self = this; this.promise = new Promise( function( resolve, reject ) self.reject = reject; self.resolve = resolve; ); window.fbLoaded = new Deferred(); window.fbAsyncInit = function() FB.init( appId : '374762726405868', autoLogAppEvents : true, xfbml : true, version : 'v3.0' ); window.fbLoaded.resolve(); ; (function(d, s, id) var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = " fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); (document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk')); Source link

[ingravinoveritas]

This year's Pub in the Park event happened last weekend, and there was apparently no host at all...which just about confirms what many of us thought/talked about last year when David and Georgia were scheduled to co-host, only for Georgia to bail out and Michael to fill in at the last second. There is also the fact that David and Georgia normally attend PiTP each year, but did not do so this year (which, in fairness, could be for a variety of reasons). But to add further insult to injury, there is only one shot of David and absolutely no mention of Georgia (or Michael) in the highlight video of last year's event. All of which gives the impression that things did not remotely go according to plan last year and that there's been fallout as a result...

[ear-worthy]

Dead And Kind Of Famous Podcast: Weird, Wonderful, & Wild!

I love podcasts that take a genre or topic and bend it, twist it, and even improve on it by combining two disparate elements.

With the new independent podcast, Dead and Kind of Famous, the co-hosts have merged fame with anonymity, and unshackled celebrity from legacy.

The podcast presents two friends ("one who's a nobody and one who's kinda famous") who dive into the life stories of dead folks who enjoyed a touch or two of fame in their time and now reside permanently in Hollywood Forever Cemetery.

The show only began in October and has released two episodes so far, but those episodes are like a bumper car ride into death, celebrity, unsavory behavior, comic relief, descents into salty sarcasm and wildly inappropriate wit.

Boil all these elements into excellent sound quality, comedic chops, and narrative acumen, and you receive an indie podcast that proves yet again that breaking the mold on any genre can make for a superb podcast.

The co-hosts are Courtney Blomquist and Marissa Rivera. Courtney explains how she met Marissa: "We met in kind of a funny way! I had been friends with Marissa’s now ex-husband since high school and had reached out to him when my now husband and I were considering moving to LA. And then he introduced me to his wife, and that wife ended up becoming my best friend."

Marissa adds: "I won her in the divorce, too. She’s MINE."

Just like the banter on their podcast, Courtney returns fire with: "I also sent her a rose emoji when I asked her to be my friend as a stupid bachelor reference. Funny thing is, I don’t even watch The Bachelor.

Marissa responds playfully with: "Wasn’t I the one who sent that?"

In the first episode, Blomquist and Rivera introduce us to Frankenstein. No, not the famous one. The nearly famous one! Our co-hosts clue us in on the eccentric and flamboyant life of Baron Clement von Franckenstein. In the inaugural episode, they take listeners through an amusing adventure in the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where "We use Find a Grave to track down the baron's final resting place." The co-hosts share their first impressions of his marble tombstone, the origin of his captivating surname, and even improvise an obituary that will leave you smiling and giggling.

From youthful escapades and inheritance windfalls to a colorful Hollywood career, Baron Clement von Franckenstein's life was nothing if not extraordinary. We learn about his transformation from an English nobleman to a beloved character actor, with memorable roles in everything from Young Frankenstein to Robin Hood: Men in Tights.

I actually remember him in a small role as the French president in the 1995 film, The American President, with Michael Douglas.

The second episode introduces us to actor Christopher Jones, a long-time actor, carouser, and all-around ne'er do well.

The co-hosts begin by asking: "What if the ghost of James Dean haunted an actor's career? Christopher Jones, a man forever overshadowed by his uncanny resemblance to the rebel icon, lived a life that was as electrifying as it was cursed."

Jones's journey through the swinging '60s is a cocktail of passion and paranoia, particularly in his tumultuous relationship with actor Susan Strasberg.

Throughout the episode, the co-hosts navigate Jones's on-screen triumphs and setbacks, from his role in the cult classic Wild in the Streets to the challenging production of Ryan's Daughter, which saw director David Lean both frustrated and fascinated by Jones's enigmatic presence. Despite the controversies that hounded him, Jones’s unique charisma left a lasting impression, one that still echoes in the halls of Hollywood lore.

Courtney says: "Tune in for an exploration not just of a man, but of a myth in the making, a tale of ambition, love, and the spectral shadow of a legend."

As co-hosts, it is obvious that these two have talent and media experience. They are comfortable in front of the mic, funny, playful, irreverent, and their close friendship infects the tenor of the show. It's like they're inviting you to be their third wheel and enjoy these nearly famous dad people.

Courtney Blomquist is one of those people who has tried a million and one things at least once and has a confusing resume to prove it. She started out singing and acting, dabbled in photography, did standup comedy and finally found her home producing podcasts. Courtney has produced podcasts for top talents like Russell Peters, Rachel Zoe and Meghan Trainor, and she's worked across many genres. She now splits her time working for Resonate Recordings, making this podcast, and living that domestic life with her husband and daughter, Iris.

Marissa Rivera is a Puerto Rican actress, born on a U.S. Army base in South Korea, and raised all over the eastern United States. She received her B.A. in Theatre at Florida State University and studied in London under the tutelage of professors from RADA and Central.

She’s been living and working in Los Angeles for the better part of a decade, and you can always spot her in several national commercials interrupting your favorite TV shows.

Furthermore, she’s a seasoned commercial actress whose credits include: Capitol One with Samuel L. Jackson, multiple spots for Lowe’s and McDonald's - and the 2021 Super Bowl M&Ms campaign with Daniel Levy.

You can also currently catch her on Season three of Good Trouble playing “Magdalena Magda Calderón”! She has two beloved fur babies; Gus and Trudy.

I am a huge Lucifer fan and remember her from an episode in season five titled, "Blue Ballz" where she's at the bar in Lux and Mazikeen asks her if she wants a screwdriver.

When I asked Courtney and Marissa why they started this podcast, Courtney jumped in: "Well, I am a podcast producer by trade, so it wasn’t too big of a stretch! But I had stepped back and was focusing on my new role as a mom, and I realized that I had never produced my own show before and had always focused on producing for other people. I love producing for other people, by the way, but I wanted to run with one of my own ideas. And it gave me an excuse to walk over to Marissa’s late at night and gab and giggle over the obscure dead folks that I’d been researching."

Marissa added: "And I am an excellent friend who wanted to help her make a creative baby in addition to the real baby she had just created. Also, I too wanted yet another reason to hang out."

When I asked: "Why start this particular podcast?"

"Walking through Hollywood Forever Cemetery is one of my favorite things to do in Los Angeles," Courtney admits. "There are peacocks and swans everywhere, and beautiful headstones that always make me curious. Especially for the people I don’t know of. So one day I was walking through with my in-laws and my daughter and I had the idea to investigate the graves that caught my eye. And then I ran home and asked Marissa to do it with me."

Marissa said: "And of course, I said yes."

"I do a lot of self taped auditions and voiceover auditions, so I already had a sound optimized studio in my house. So we used that space," notes Marissa.

"Otherwise, we use a Podtrack and Shure SM58 mics. But honestly, starting this show involved finding the graves that stood out, doing a bunch of research, and writing the dang thing," says Courtney.

"Then I rounded things out by listening to her talk, reacting in real time and doing a bunch of unrehearsed accent work," Marissa chimes in. Courtney says that "our goal is to make a great show with a loyal fanbase and have fun doing it. I’d also like to monetize in one way or another down the line."

"But right now, we are focused on making consistently great content," Marissa says.

Like all indie podcasters, jobs, family, and other responsibilities vie for time to work on the podcast.

Courtney observes that "Finding the time to research, write and record. Between my hectic mom life and Marissa’s busy acting career, it’s very hard to find the time. But banking episodes has been key for us."

When I asked Courtney and Marissa what was the weirdest thing that happened during the podcasting process, they answered with: "The weirdest details are in the life stories of the dead people we talk about (Marissa). And that is the TRUTH (Courtney). So please listen. Because we’ll tell you one thing: it isn’t boring." (Courtney & Marissa) Check out Dead and Kind of Famous. Who said cemeteries can't be fun! Seriously, enjoy the back and forth of two extraordinary podcasters, learn about dead people who hovered around fame, and question the legacy we all leave when we attend that final Rose ceremony. (Bachelor reference!)

[denimbex1986]

'...9. 'John Adams' (2008)

Created by Kirk Ellis

Paul Giamatti and Laura Linney observing ongoing events with interest as John and Abigail Adams in John Adams.Image via HBO Before he was the butt of the jokes in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton, John Adams was the subject of a 7-part HBO miniseries. Stuck in between the overpowering legacies of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, the 2008 miniseries sought to highlight one of America’s more overlooked founding fathers. Written by Kirk Ellis, directed by Tom Hooper, and executive produced by Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman, the miniseries was adapted from the 2001 book of the same name by David McCullough.

The show, which begins in 1770, ambitiously covers 50 years, chronicling John Adams’ entire political career and the first 50 years of America’s independence, all the way to his death on July 4th, 1826. Paul Giamatti portrays the founding father and second President of the United States, with Laura Linney as his wife, Abigail. Both performances were universally lauded, leading to Emmy wins for both actors. With 13 Emmy wins, John Adams remains the most-awarded miniseries in Emmys history...

1. 'Band of Brothers' (2001)

Created by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks

Following their very successful collaboration in 1998’s Saving Private Ryan, Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks returned to the World War 2 milieu with Band of Brothers, an adaptation of Stephen E. Ambrose’s nonfiction book of the same name. It follows the “Easy” Company, 2nd Battalion, a group of paratroopers in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division. The members are portrayed by a large ensemble of actors led by Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston and David Schwimmer. It also features a host of up-and-coming acting talent, including appearances from Michael Fassbender, Tom Hardy, Dominic Cooper, Andrew Scott, and more.

The story follows the members of the “Easy” Company from their training to the landing in Normandy and the invasion of Germany, all the way to the end of the war. Arguably the most iconic HBO miniseries, Band of Brothers revolutionized military storytelling with its immense scope and ambition. As one would expect from a show co-created by Steven Spielberg, the battle scenes are expertly made and immediately immerse the audience in their chaotic nature. However, the show is much more than an exhibition of its movie-quality filmmaking. By including interviews with the company's real-life surviving members, the show grounds its story in reality and underlines the truth. Throughout its run, Band of Brothers balances immersive action and World War 2 re-staging with prescient and delicate discussions on mental health and PTSD. So warmly was it received that it spawned two spiritual sequels: The Pacific (2010), also on HBO, and Masters of the Air (2024) on Apple TV+.'

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Alex Kaplan at MMFA:

Ann Vandersteel, a far-right podcaster who has promoted conspiracy theories and far-right ideology that government agencies have warned are domestic threats, hosted an online discussion in which she endorsed multiple Republican election denier candidates running for supervisors of elections in counties throughout Florida. Along with having ties to a militia group, Vandersteel has previously promoted sovereign citizens ideology and the QAnon conspiracy theory, both of which have received internal government warnings for being domestic threats. (Vandersteel, who has promoted other conspiracy theories like 9/11 trutherism and Pizzagate, has more recently criticized QAnon.) 

On July 19, she co-hosted an X Space called “FLORIDA TO END ELECTION FRAUD- 9 SOE CANDIDATES BRING THE BATTLE PLAN” with Cathi Chamberlain, a Florida election denier and podcaster. The discussion featured multiple candidates running to be supervisors of elections in Florida, including Dave Schaffel (Collier County), Jeff Buongiorno (Palm Beach County), Chris Gleason (Pinellas County), Tom Vail (Lake County), Michael “Mick” Peters (Lee County), David Kalin (Charlotte County), George Umansky (St. Lucie County), and Judith Jensen (Alachua County). Right-wing pundit and former Virginia congressional candidate Leon Benjamin also participated in the Space. During the Space, Vandersteel said that counties in Florida had “terrible problems” with supposed election fraud and falsely claimed, “We know that there was corruption and votes were flipped in every single county around this country,” citing the work of MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell and fellow conspiracy theorist Dennis Montgomery. She then said of the candidates in the Space, “I’m endorsing all of them tonight. I mean, you’re going to see me start to put it out on Twitter. I'm endorsing everybody that's on this list as an SOE [supervisor of elections].” Chamberlain also claimed that she was involved in putting together this “slate” of candidates.

Right-wing extremist and QAnon conspiracist Ann Vandersteel hosted an online forum on X Spaces for election denier candidates in Florida.

[robertrabiah]

Robert Rabiah was nominated for Best Actor in a film alongside Geoffrey Rush, Hugo Weaving, Sam Neill and David Wenham at the 2012 Australian Film Institute/Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards, 2011 Inside Film Awards, and is a 2xtime Australian Academy Awards candidate - 2023/2024.

Robert Rabiah has also won Best Actor (Monaco Charity Film Festival) for his performance in Face to Face (2011) by Michael Rymer, Best Writer at the Australian Writer's Guild (Monte Miller Award) and Best Writer at the National Literary Awards (Fellowship of Australian Writers)

Robert Rabiah's other notable distinctions include a top 5 Award at the first Spaamart (Screen Producers Association of Australia Film Market) a Spark Award given by the Australian Film Commission, a Cannes World Film Festival nomination (Best Feature Doco - 2023) a candidate at the Australian Academy Awards (Best Feature Doco - 2023/2024) a candidate at the Australian Academy Awards (Best Supporting Actor in a film - 2023/2024) and a nomination for Best Actor in an ensemble at the annual Australian Equity Ensemble Awards (the only actor-voted awards in Australia) for his performance in Safe Harbour (2018), which went on to win for Best TV Movie/Mini-Series at the International Emmy® Awards.

Robert Rabiah has appeared in some of Australia's best loved films and television shows such as, Chopper (2000) with Eric Bana, Deadline Gallipoli (2015) with Sam Worthington, Jack Irish (2016) with Guy Pearce, Ali's Wedding (2017) with Osamah Sami, Below (2019) with Anthony LaPaglia, critically-acclaimed series Secret City (2016) with Anna Torv (Foxtel/Netflix/Matchbox Pictures), Safe Harbour (2018) (Hulu/AppleTV/BBC4/SBS) directed by Glendyn Ivin, Netflix/Peacock/NBCUniversal TV series Irreverent (2022) and feature film Land of Bad (2024) with Russell Crowe and Liam Hemsworth.

Robert Rabiah's passion for film was inspired by growing up across the road from a cinema and he was mentored early in his career by Dominic Minghella and Robin Swicord. Robert Rabiah is also a co-host of the award-winning podcast The ShowBiz Podcast with Robert Rabiah and Joey Coley-Sowry (2019), which revolves around the entertainment industry.

Robert Rabiah's work for production giants such as Netflix, Amazon, Stan, NBCUniversal, Hulu, Foxtel, Peacock, Paramount+, Madman Entertainment, AppleTV, Syfy, BBC4, SBS, ABC and Michael De Luca Productions has ensured both global releases and critical acclaim for his performances.

[ncisfranchise-source]

The Monte-Carlo Television Festival has rolled out the blue carpet welcoming star guests for its 63rd edition, but it also has an eye on the future.   “We’re always working towards expanding and developing the festival. Each year, we get better and better,” executive director Cécile Menoni says.   Listing “fabulous highlights,” Menoni gushes over this year’s Crystal Nymph winner: Morgan Freeman. The award recognizes the “stellar body of work” of the veteran actor, who recently exec produced “The Gray House,” which celebrated its world premiere Friday at the opening ceremony. Mary-Louise Parker, Daisy Head, Amethyst Davis and Ben Vereen attended.   “It’s such a thrill for us to honor him,” Menoni says.   The fest will also take a closer look at rising stars, with “Bridgerton’s” Simone Ashley given the International Golden Nymph for most promising talent. Honorary Golden Nymph – “Our festival’s highest accolade” – will go to “true fan favorite” Olivier Marchal. The French actor – and former policeman – is known for “36th Precinct.” He also created the cop series “Braquo.”   “It has always been important for our festival to attract big stars and their shows. Right from the very beginning, it has been crucial to appeal to both local and global fans. We certainly have an expanded fan contingent these days, because we make sure they are well-served with a variety of events enabling them to get close to and meet their favorite stars.”   That includes “selfie sessions” with “Chronicles of the Sun” team, autograph sessions with “Chicago Med,” “FBI” and “Law & Order” cast members and meetings with soap celebs from “The Bold and the Beautiful” and “The Young and the Restless.”   To spotlight its 50th anniversary, “Little House on the Prairie” will host a special Anniversary Tea Party, says Menoni, while “NCIS” team Michael Weatherly, Wilmer Valderrama, Cote De Pablo and Brian Dietzen will mark the 1,000th episode of the series.   “We have a long list of amazing talent joining us, including Lee Jung-jae who will be in Monaco to support the launch of Lucasfilm’s ‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’ on Disney+,” she adds.   “Buffy” alumnus David Boreanaz, also seen in “SEAL Team” and “Bones,” will return to the fest, this time as the president of the fiction jury.

“We can’t wait to see who they will select. We just know they will be the best of the best as the final selections are all extremely strong this year,” Menoni says.   Taking a break from the glamour, the event will encourage conversations about the ever-changing industry landscape during Business Content sessions, addressing the impact of 2023 strikes, A.I. controversies – and the new tools it provides – as well as changes in international co-productions.   “We have a great lineup,” she says, mentioning “in-depth panel discussions on important and timely subjects,” from “Bringing the World to Light Through TV Drama” to “New Narratives for Documentaries: The Blur Between Reality & Fiction.”   Unsurprisingly, many “emotional documentaries” will be featured as well, including “Ukraine’s War: The Other Side,” “Ukrainian Chronicles,” “Broken Dreams,” “Lie to Me,” “Uvda: Table for Eight” and “Mines of Death,” while “stellar” official selection includes four world premieres: “Madam” with Rachel Griffiths (produced by Tavake and XYZ Films), “Alone at Sea” (High Sea Production), “Night Therapy” (Yes TV) and German offering “Der Heimweg” (Ziegler Films).   “The Law of the Sea,” “The Good Wife” spinoff “Elsbeth,” “Little Did I Know,” “Helgoland 513” and “The Gathering” will be screened for the first time in France.   “It’s always interesting to see how an audience responds. I find it difficult to watch [with them] sometimes, but I let other people tell me how they reacted,” “The Gathering” actor Vinette Robinson says with a laugh.   “There is nothing like the live, collective response. It’s unusual for television, but it can really heighten how the piece hits. To come to Monte Carlo, to have such a local, British show and see how universal it really is… It widens the audience.”   Martina Haag, “Little Did I Know” creator and director, agrees: “Showcasing your film or series and engaging with viewers directly can help boost the visibility and success of your show. Viewers who have a positive interaction with the creators and cast are more likely to become enthusiastic promoters. Also, festivals are fun and vibrant events where the hard work of the cast and crew is recognized and appreciated.”   “All these special events highlight the accessibility and relevance of the festival, which continues to be a must-attend event for worldwide talent, producers, writers, distributors, streamers, industry professionals and, of course, the public,” Menoni sums up.   “We hope this year’s edition delivers on its promise of celebrating the very best programming from around the world and, looking to the future of the entertainment industry, [figuring out] how it can continue to entertain, inspire and educate people throughout the globe.”

[theultimatefan]

Linda Hamilton, Jeff Ward, Peter Weller Head Next Wave of Celebrity Guests At FAN EXPO New Orleans

Linda Hamilton (The Terminator franchise, Dante’s Peak), Jeff Ward (“One Piece,” “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.”), Peter Weller (RoboCop, The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension) and Felicia Day (“The Guild,” “Supernatural”) headline the next wave of celebrity guests appearing at FAN EXPO New Orleans, set for January 5-7, 2024, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The four will be joined by Lana Parrilla (“Once Upon a Time,” “Spin City”), Ethan Suplee (“My Name is Earl,” Remember the Titans), Sonequa Martin-Green (“Star Trek: Discovery,” “The Walking Dead”) and Eman Esfandi (“Ahsoka,” King Richard) as new additions to the convention lineup.

Tickets for FAN EXPO New Orleans are available at fanexpohq.com/fanexponeworleans/buy-tickets, with a variety of individual single day, 3-day and Ultimate Fan Packages to choose from.

Hamilton first turned heads in 1984’s The Terminator, following up with a co-starring role as “Assistant District Attorney Catherine Chandler” opposite Ron Perlman in “Beauty and the Beast.” She reprised her “Sarah Connor” role in Terminator 2: Judgment Day and Terminator: Dark Fate, and has shown versatility in her more than 80 credits with spots on “Frasier” and the lead in the Lifetime holiday film Home by Christmas.

Ward currently stars as “Buggy” in the action Netflix series “One Piece,” following up on a three-year, 45-episode spin in “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D” as “Deke Shaw,” the complex character who proved popular with fans. He also co-starred in the 2021 Netflix horror/drama mini-series “Brand New Cherry Flavor” and portrayed Charles Manson in the Lifetime TV movie “Manson’s Lost Girls” in 2016.

Accomplished actor, director, voice over artist and occasional professor Weller’s amazing career has taken him from the mean streets of old Detroit to the final frontier of space. He has appeared in more than 50 films and television series, notably in the title role in 1987’s RoboCop and its sequel RoboCop 2 and as the title character in the quirky 1984 sci-fi cult film The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension.

Day has more than 100 credits, from films to TV series to voice work, with many highlights including a 66-episode run on “The Guild” and recurring spots on “Supernatural” and “Eureka.” She teamed with original series host Joel Hodgson for a five-year run on the recent iteration of “Mystery Science Theater 3000” and had her first big fandom exposure in a recurring role as “Vi” on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”

Parrilla appeared in 156 episodes of the ABC hit fantasy/adventure series “Once Upon a Time” between 2011-2018, for which she earned several awards, including TV Guide’s Favorite Villain, and numerous nominations. She has had recurring roles in hits “Spin City,” “Boomtown,” “24” and “Windfall,” and co-starred as “Lana Trammell” in this year’s Netflix release of the second season of “The Lincoln Lawyer.”

Suplee has had nearly 100 film and TV roles, from comedies like the Kevin Smith productions Mallrats, Dogma and Clerks III, “My Name is Earl,” and “Boy Meets World” to dramas such as Remember the Titans and The Butterfly Effect.

Martin-Green portrayed “Sasha Williams” on “The Walking Dead” from 2012-17, and has wowed fans as “Michael Burnham” in “Star Trek: Discovery” for the past six years. Some of her other major credits include Space Jam: A New Legacy and recurring roles on “Once Upon a Time” and “The Good Wife.”

Esfandi co-starred opposite Rosario Dawson, David Tennant and Mary Elizabeth Winstead in this year’s Disney+ miniseries “Ahsoka,” part of the Star Wars universe. He has also been seen in King Richard with Will Smith and The Inspection with Jeremy Pope and Gabrielle Union.

The eight newcomers join an already impressive autograph area that includes Danny Trejo (Machete, The Book of Boba Fett), the "Daredevil" tandem of Charlie Cox and Vincent D'Onofrio, Katee Sackhoff (Star Wars’ “The Mandalorian”), Jon Bernthal (“The Punisher,” “The Walking Dead”), Sean Gunn (Guardians of the Galaxy, “Avengers: Infinity War”), the “Charmed” duo of Holly Marie Combs and Rose McGowan, Peter Cullen (Transformers), Jason Lee (Vanilla Sky, Almost Famous) and voice acting stars of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” Barry Gordon (“Donatello”), Cam Clarke (“Leonardo”), Townsend Coleman (“Michelangelo”) and Rob Paulsen (“Raphael”).

FAN EXPO New Orleans features the biggest and best in pop culture: movies, TV, music, artists, writers, exhibitors, cosplay, with three full days of themed programming to satisfy every fandom. More guest news will be released in the following weeks, including line-up reveals for comic creator guests, voice actors, and cosplayers.

FAN EXPO New Orleans runs January 5-7 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. Show hours are Friday 4 - 9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tickets start at $28 during the advanced prices window until December 21, and begin at $38 from December 22 through the end of the show; 3-day passes and VIP packages also available at fanexpohq.com/fanexponeworleans/buy-tickets. More information and updates can be found at fanexpohq.com/fanexponeworleans.

New Orleans is the first event on the 2024 FAN EXPO HQ calendar; the full schedule is available at fanexpohq.com/home/events/.

[ariel-seagull-wings]

One of the most popular science fiction writers in Hollywood, Straczynski is best known as the creator of the TV show Babylon 5, for which he wrote almost a hundred scripts, and he also has countless other writing credits for various TV shows, comic books, feature films, cartoons, books, and articles. Together with the Wachowskis, he co-created the Netflix original series Sense8, which we reviewed in episode 157 and which was just renewed for a second season.

This interview first appeared on Wired.com’s The Geek’s Guide to the Galaxy podcast, which is hosted by David Barr Kirtley and produced by John Joseph Adams.