In today’s episode of the “Daily Variety” podcast, industry experts discuss the surprising success of Universal Pictures’ daring move to split the musical “Wicked” into two separate films. Rebecca Rubin highlights that the decision, initially met with skepticism due to the inherent risks of dividing a musical and the challenges of polarizing genres, has proven to be a profitable gamble. The first installment opened with a remarkable $150 million...

JJ's Kook Origins Revealed in Outer Banks Season 4 Continuation The shocking revelation that JJ Maybank was actually born into a wealthy Kook family continues to reverberate through the Outer Banks universe as Season 4, Part 2 prepares to launch. The opening sequence of the new episodes provides crucial backstory that fans have been eagerly awaiting. In an unexpected narrative twist, viewers finally learn that JJ's birth name is Jackson, resolving years of speculation about what the second...

Starting July 25, UK internet users faced a significant shift in online access, as age verification became mandatory for viewing certain types of content. This new regulation aims to restrict minors from reaching adult or harmful material, but it has also sparked widespread concern among adults who now encounter added hurdles to their usual online routines, including social media browsing and messaging. The implementation is part of the UK's Online Safety Act, enacted in 2023 to enhance...

The recent implementation of age verification laws in Britain has sparked a significant increase in VPN usage, as individuals seek to maintain privacy while complying with new online regulations. Since July 25, British internet users must prove they're 18 or older to access various websites, including adult content platforms, social networks, dating services, and certain gaming sites. Ofcom, the UK's internet regulator, has outlined various verification methods including facial recognition,...

In a significant move to combat the rising tide of unwanted calls, a leading cybersecurity provider has expanded its protective services beyond traditional online security measures. The company recently unveiled a new feature designed to shield users from the growing nuisance of spam calls. The newly launched call screening tool is currently accessible to Android users within the United States. This timely development comes in response to alarming statistics showing financial losses from...

Exciting Streaming Deal: HBO Max Slashes Prices for Black Friday Starting this Monday, HBO Max is rolling out an incredible limited-time offer that streaming enthusiasts won't want to miss. New and returning subscribers can access the platform's ad-supported tier for just $2.99 monthly for a full year—representing significant savings of 73% off the standard $10.99 monthly rate. This special promotion runs for one week only, concluding on December 1, 2025. The deal is widely available...

At 37 years old, Shirley Henderson found herself cast in a role that would become one of her most recognizable performances in the film industry. Her portrayal of Moaning Myrtle in the 2002 film “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” is a testament to her acting versatility and dedication. Interestingly, Henderson was advised by the film’s casting director to keep her age a secret during the audition process. She was told to audition without revealing her true age...

Poguelandia Celebration Highlights I can't believe they managed to pull it off again! The fan enthusiasm for another Poguelandia event was absolutely incredible. Madison Bailey expressed her amazement that they were able to gather the cast and thousands of devoted fans for a second round of the immersive Outer Banks experience. The popularity of the show has clearly created a fandom that can't be satisfied with just a single celebration. For the upcoming fourth season, Netflix transformed...

Netflix's Live-Action 'ONE PIECE' Expands Cast with Baroque Works Agents for Season 3 The live-action adaptation of Eiichiro Oda's beloved manga series continues to grow its roster of characters as production begins in Cape Town, South Africa. Two new Baroque Works agents will join the growing list of antagonists in the upcoming third season. Daisy Head, known for her roles in "Shadow and Bone" and "Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves," has been cast as Miss Doublefinger. Joining her...

Universal's bold choice to fracture the "Wicked" musical into dual cinematic chapters defied conventional Hollywood wisdom. The studio wagered over half a billion dollars that audiences would embrace this two-year odyssey— a gamble most deemed reckless for a genre where recent adaptations consistently stumbled. Yet the spellbinding returns silenced doubters: Part one's $758 million global triumph crowned it the highest-grossing stage-to-screen transfer ever, while its sequel shattered...

UK Government Stands Firm on Online Safety Act Despite Public Outcry Despite mounting opposition and a rapidly growing petition, the British government remains committed to the Online Safety Act, emphasizing its determination to create a safer internet environment. The legislation, which became law in 2023, has recently triggered widespread backlash following the implementation of mandatory age verification requirements that took effect on July 25th. These measures require UK residents to...

Squid Game Season 2 Preview In the recently unveiled preview for "Squid Game" Season 2, fans witnessed a transformed Gi-hun (portrayed by Lee Jung-jae), showcasing a stark contrast to his Season 1 persona. When instructed to "smile!" by an off-camera voice, the once-cheerful Player 456 now responds with a steely, unwavering glare—a powerful visual representation of his character evolution. This dramatic shift in demeanor hints at the significant changes awaiting viewers when the highly...