Nintendo finally unveiled the Switch 2 yesterday, giving us some bits of information and plenty of new cause for speculation, but the only game we saw was the next Mario Kart. Fans are already calling the kart racer Mario Kart 9 despite us having no official title yet. Though we only saw a few seconds of the game,…
Nintendo finally unveiled the Switch 2 yesterday, giving us some bits of information and plenty of new cause for speculation, but the only game we saw was the next Mario Kart. Fans are already calling the kart racer Mario Kart 9 despite us having no official title yet. Though we only saw a few seconds of the game,…
It was recently reported that Apple TV+ has renewed the Rebecca Ferguson show for two more seasons and is planning to end after season 4. Season 2 has just finished its run. Season 3 is currently being filmed, and season 4 is being written so they can shoot back-to-back. Silo follows the last 10,000 people on Earth as they navigate life in their mile-deep underground home protecting them from the toxic outside world. The catch? No one knows when or why the silo was built and anyone who goes snooping for answers faces fatal consequences. The series has an impressive cast that includes Ferguson (Doctor Sleep), Tim Robbins (The Shawshank Redemption), David Oyelowo (Selma), Common (John Wick: Chapter 2), and Rashida Jones (Parks and Recreation).
The Wrap recently sat down with the show’s creator, Graham Yost, now that season 2 has come to an end. Beware: Spoilers follow for anyone wanting to stay fresh. Yost was asked about ending the second season with a big flashback to before the silos. When asked when he knew he wanted to do the flashback, Yost explained, “A lot of it is just instinctual and also just trial and error. Breaking Season 2 was difficult. We didn’t know how far Season 2 was going to go. We thought maybe we would have Juliette over in Silo 17 for two seasons, and then we said, ‘No, we can’t sustain that. We don’t need to sustain that. Let’s move it along.’ Then it was sort of like, then what’s Season 3 and what’s Season 4? I won’t get into all of that, but we are going to get into some origin story stuff in Season 3, you’ve now met Daniel and Helen, played by Ashley Zuckerman and Jessica Henwick.”
Yost, then said, “There was talk with Apple, initially there were some who thought maybe we just end with Juliette on fire in the in the air lock. And we said, ‘No, this not a show that ends with just a cliffhanger. It needs to be something is answered and something is raised.’ At the end of Season 1, when she walks over the hill and out of sight, we could have ended with that. But no, we want her to be seeing that there are 50 other silos. So now we’ve answered some things, and now we’re asking new questions.”
He continued, “With this one, it was a different kind of thing. We knew people are going to go, ‘Oh s–t, that’s where the Pez came from. What does that mean?’ That then propels us forward and that’s kind of the way this show works best because it’s a mystery show.”
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Filmmaker Jeannot Szwarc earned directing credits on 80 different projects over the course of a career that spanned more than 50 years – but most movie fans will likely remember him as the director of the shark thriller sequel Jaws 2, the time travel romance Somewhere in Time, and/or the DC Comics adaptation Supergirl. Sadly, Szwarc is no longer with us, as his Somewhere in Time star Jane Seymour took to social media to confirm that he has passed away at the age of 85. Seymour wrote, “Today, we say goodbye to a true visionary. Jeannot Szwarc was not just a brilliant director but a kind and generous soul. He gifted us many timeless stories, including Somewhere in Time, a film that changed my life forever. May his memory be a blessing, and may his artistry live on in our hearts.“
Born in Paris on November 21, 1939, Szwarc graduated from Harvard University before getting his directing career started in the late 1960s by taking the helm of episodes of TV shows like Ironside, The Virginian, Alias Smith and Jones, and Marcus Welby, M.D., among others. In the ’70s, he continued directing for TV shows (Night Gallery, Columbo, The New Perry Mason, The Six Million Dollar Man, Kojack, The Rockford Files, Baretta) while also racking up credits on several TV movies, including Night of Terror, The Weekend Nun, and The Devil’s Daughter. His first theatrically released feature was the 1975 mutant cockroach horror movie Bug. That was followed by Jaws 2 in 1978. In the ’80s, he worked primarily on feature films – Somewhere in Time, Supergirl, Santa Claus: The Movie, etc. – but also made room in his schedule for TV work, including directing a couple TV movies and some episodes of The Twilight Zone.
As of the ’90s, he shifted back to working mostly in television. Over the last few decades, he directed Rockford Files TV movies and episodes of Boston Public, Ally McBeal, C.S.I.: Miami, The Practice, JAG, Numb3rs, Without a Trace, Heroes, Cold Case, Smallville, Fringe, Supernatural, Castle, Bones, Designated Survivor, Grey’s Anatomy, and more.
Swarz passed away on January 15th. Our sincere condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans.
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Questions about Sony’s live-service plans continue to mount. The company confirmed two games were canceled at Bend Studio and Bluepoint Games, responding to a report by Bloomberg that the PlayStation 5 maker had canned two projects that were part of the company’s ongoing multiplayer push. Neither studio will be…
Questions about Sony’s live-service plans continue to mount. The company confirmed two games were canceled at Bend Studio and Bluepoint Games, responding to a report by Bloomberg that the PlayStation 5 maker had canned two projects were part of the company’s ongoing multiplayer push. Neither studio will be closed, but…
A new year means new entries for the Marvel Cinematic Universe are on the way. First up will be Anthony Mackie taking center stage as the new Captain America in Captain America: Brave New World. The movie went into production in March of 2023, with filming lasting through June. But in December of ’23, another screenwriter was brought onto the project to write new material for reshoots, and those reshoots seemed to be quite substantial, lasting from May 2024 through November. We know that the story still involves the Serpent Society; in fact, the reshoots added Giancarlo Esposito into the mix as Sidewinder, the leader of the Serpent Society.
Marvel is now gearing up for their big film release since last year’s Deadpool & Wolverine with a final trailer and brand new posters for specific premium theater screens. This includes posters for IMAX, Dolby Theaters, 4DX theaters, Real D 3D screenings, Screen X theaters and a poster for Fandango ticket sales. These posters are playing up the big showdown between Captain America and Red Hulk. Check them out below!
Here’s the official information on Captain America: Brave New World, straight from Marvel: Anthony Mackie returns as the high-flying hero, who’s officially taken up the mantle of Captain America. Harrison Ford makes his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut as newly-elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross, a role originated by the late William Hurt. Ross and Sam have a bit of a history: In his previous role as Secretary of State, Ross was responsible for arresting Sam and his fellow Avengers during the events of Captain America: Civil War. Now as president, Ross is eager to work with Sam, hoping to make Captain America an official military position. But that tentative alliance is jeopardized when Sam finds himself in the middle of an international incident, with friend and retired super-soldier Isaiah Bradley (Carl Lumbly) as the prime suspect. Sam’s investigation send him on a dangerous chase, and (leading to) a deadly showdown and a tease of the menacing Red Hulk. Danny Ramirez returns as former Air Force lieutenant Joaquin Torres, who’s picked up Sam’s old wings and taken on the role of Falcon. Tim Blake Nelson is also back as Samuel Sterns, AKA The Leader, appearing in the MCU for the first time since 2008’s The Incredible Hulk. New to the cast is Shira Haas, who joins as Ruth Bat-Seraph. A former Black Widow, Ruth is now a high-ranking U.S. government official who has the trust of President Ross. Giancarlo Esposito, Liv Tyler, and Xosha Roquemore also star. The film is directed by Julius Onah and produced by Kevin Feige and Nate Moore. Louis D’Esposito and Charles Newirth serve as executive producers. Malcolm Spellman, Dalan Musson, and Rob Edwards crafted the story for the film. Onah receives screenplay credit alongside Peter Glanz and Matthew Orton (Orton being the writer who was brought on for the reshoots).
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Jimmy Donaldson, better known by his online persona MrBeast, is a household name in the digital entertainment sphere, or as the kids call it, the YouTubes. Born ON HIS BIRTHDAY May 7, 1998, in Wichita, Kansas, and raised in Greenville, North Carolina, MrBeast has grown from a curious teen dabbling in YouTube videos to a global icon known for his groundbreaking content and massive philanthropic efforts. His journey is a blend of awe-inspiring achievements, calculated risks, and controversies that shine a spotlight on the complexities of modern-day success.
MrBeast began his YouTube career in 2012, posting gaming videos, like everyone else at the time, and attempts at humorous content under the username “MrBeast6000.” These early uploads, ranging from Let’s Plays of Minecraft and Call of Duty to speculative commentary on YouTube personalities’ net worth, were far from the spectacle-driven productions he’s now famous for. His big break came in 2017, when he uploaded “Counting to 100,000,” a video that was as much a test of endurance as it was a statement about standing out in a crowded space. The stunt, which took him over 40 hours, went viral and set the tone for his future content: ambitious, unconventional, and impossible to ignore.
From counting large numbers to giving away millions, MrBeast’s content rapidly evolved. His decision to start giving away large sums of money—sometimes to strangers, sometimes to his friends, and often to those in need—struck a chord with viewers. By 2018, his brand of philanthropy had become his signature, earning him both a loyal audience and growing influence on YouTube.
MrBeast’s innovative style has inspired countless creators to emulate his success. From attention-grabbing challenges to philanthropy-driven content, his impact is seen in channels like Airrack, Ryan Trahan, and ZHC, who have built their own followings by taking cues from his formula. MrBeast’s influence is not limited to YouTube; his focus on over-the-top stunts and storytelling has created a ripple effect across other platforms, driving creators to think bigger and more creatively. He’s also openly mentored some up-and-coming YouTubers, offering tips on how to maximize engagement and audience retention, which has cemented his role as a community leader within the creator ecosystem.
Videos such as “I Gave $1,000,000 To Random People” and “Last To Leave Circle Wins $500,000” typify his mix of altruism and spectacle. These videos often blur the line between genuine charity and calculated content. Over the years, MrBeast has produced some truly unforgettable videos that define his career. His recreation of the popular Netflix series Squid Game was a landmark project, reportedly costing over $3.5 million to produce and garnering over 400 million views. This video not only showcased his ability to tap into trending cultural phenomena but also raised the bar for YouTube production quality. Similarly, his “Planting 20,000,000 Trees” video for #TeamTrees and “I Opened A Free Bank” pushed boundaries in terms of both scale and impact. These videos highlight his knack for creating content that resonates across demographics, balancing spectacle with heart.
While they undeniably help individuals and causes, they also rake in millions of views, leading some to question whether the philanthropy is primarily for profit. In the age of social media, where clicks equal dollars, MrBeast has arguably perfected a model where doing good is also very, very good business. He seems like a genuine guy who largely lives below his sizable means, but business is, as they say, a boomin’.
MrBeast’s philanthropic ventures are monumental in scale. In 2019, he co-launched the #TeamTrees campaign with former NASA engineer and fellow YouTuber Mark Rober, aiming to plant 20 million trees. The campaign surpassed its target, raising over $23 million—a testament to his ability to mobilize his audience for a cause. Similarly, in 2021, he spearheaded #TeamSeas to remove 30 million pounds of trash from oceans, rivers, and beaches, again exceeding the goal.
But here’s where the debate intensifies: Are these campaigns altruistic at their core, or are they profit-driven initiatives disguised as goodwill?
Consider the parallels to major corporations that engage in philanthropy for the sake of positive PR. For example, brands like TOMS Shoes or Patagonia position themselves as socially conscious to bolster consumer loyalty. Similarly, MrBeast’s acts of charity—while undeniably impactful—feed directly into his content machine. Every donation video garners millions of views, which translate to ad revenue and sponsorships that likely replenish the initial outlay many times over. And then there are slightly less overt approaches, like major companies maximizing tax incentives and endearing themselves to consumers and employees through charitable efforts.
This isn’t to downplay the good Jimmy’s done. If anything, MrBeast’s model is refreshingly transparent. He openly acknowledges that the revenue generated from his videos funds more ambitious projects. It’s a feedback loop of giving that works for everyone involved—especially him.
MrBeast’s ventures aren’t limited to YouTube. In December 2020, he launched MrBeast Burger, a virtual restaurant brand operating through ghost kitchens. Customers could order via an app, and the brand exploded in popularity, opening at hundreds of locations across the U.S. However, this venture hasn’t been without its problems.
In 2023, Donaldson filed a $100 million lawsuit against Virtual Dining Concepts (VDC), the company responsible for managing MrBeast Burger. He alleged that VDC’s failure to maintain quality standards damaged his brand and reputation. In response, VDC countersued, claiming that Donaldson’s public criticism of the brand’s quality constituted breach of contract and defamation. Donaldson had taken to social media to call out the poor quality of the burgers being delivered under his name, accusing VDC of prioritizing profits over customer satisfaction. The ongoing legal battle highlights the challenges of managing a brand at such a massive scale, especially when your name is synonymous with perfection in the eyes of some fans. It seems like the brand is in a very slow decline.
Another significant legal challenge surfaced in 2024, tied to the production of his Amazon Prime series, “Beast Games.” Marketed as a high-stakes game show with a $5 million grand prize, the show faced backlash when allegations of unsafe working conditions emerged. Contestants reported issues ranging from inadequate resources to medical emergencies due to the extreme nature of the challenges. Critics argued that the production was rushed and chaotic, prioritizing spectacle over safety. While Donaldson’s team responded by emphasizing their commitment to contestant welfare, the controversy underscored the difficulties of scaling his unique content style to a traditional TV format. For Jimmy’s part, he has called the accusations largely fake news.
The show saw high initial viewership numbers, bolstered by MrBeast’s immense popularity, that quickly tapered off. Criticisms centered around the games being basic and shallow for a supposed game show. It could also have been an issue of timing. It’s harder to watch people backstab each other for a chance at millions, when you don’t know if you’ll be able to able to pay your rent that month.
These legal and logistical hurdles are compounded by the pressure of maintaining his image as the “nice guy” of YouTube. MrBeast’s empire involves hundreds of employees, dozens of brand deals, and a relentless content schedule. Mistakes are inevitable, but in the court of public opinion, every misstep is magnified. Whether it’s a lawsuit or allegations of workplace discontent, the stakes are higher when you’re seen as the gold standard of internet philanthropy.
As of January 2025, MrBeast’s main YouTube channel boasts over 336 million subscribers. His influence extends beyond YouTube, with ventures like Feastables—his line of chocolate bars—and his philanthropy-focused channel, Beast Philanthropy, which donates 100% of its revenue to charitable causes. Despite controversies, his popularity remains largely intact, a testament to his ability to connect with audiences.
Beyond his main channel, MrBeast has diversified his content with several spin-offs. Channels like MrBeast Gaming, MrBeast Reacts, and Beast Philanthropy cater to niche audiences while maintaining his overarching brand ethos. MrBeast Gaming, for instance, capitalizes on the gaming community with massive in-game challenges and giveaways, while Beast Philanthropy focuses exclusively on charitable endeavors, showcasing the real-world impact of his generosity. Each of these channels has millions of subscribers, proving that his appeal extends far beyond a single type of content. This multi-channel strategy not only strengthens his empire but also ensures a steady stream of engagement from various audience segments.
Looking ahead, the challenges he faces are as monumental as his achievements. Scaling his operations while maintaining authenticity will be a delicate balancing act. Legal battles and production controversies have already shown that even someone as meticulous as MrBeast can’t control every variable in his sprawling empire. Yet, his ability to adapt and innovate suggests he’s far from finished rewriting the rules of entertainment and philanthropy.
MrBeast’s fame has recently transcended the digital world, as he’s dipped his toes into Hollywood’s vibrant animation scene. His blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cameo in Kung Fu Panda 4 served as a selling point for the massive hit film. He staged a fake FaceTime auction with Jack Black to promote it to his 64 million Instagram followers. They even spent the time and money to animate his goofy-ass smile onto Panda Pig. This wasn’t his first foray into voice work. He was busy in 2023, when he lent his voice to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Migration, and Under the Boardwalk. His roles in these films demonstrate his versatility and appeal.
MrBeast’s story is one of contrasts. He’s a philanthropist who profits from giving, a YouTube star who’s redefining traditional media, and a businessman navigating the pitfalls of rapid expansion. Whether you view him as a modern-day Robin Hood or a savvy capitalist who’s mastered the art of monetized altruism, there’s no denying his impact. And as he continues to push boundaries, the world will be watching—clicking, liking, and debating every step of the way.
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Here’s one story you can’t make up about Dick Turpin: his show is dead. Despite a successful and acclaimed first season on Apple TV+, The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin won’t be returning for a sophomore outing. And according to reports, there’s one man to pin it on: the star of the series, Noel Fielding.
As it stands, Noel Fielding – who plays the titular character and truly broke out as part of The Mighty Boosh troupe – is at the center for why The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin won’t press on. As reports claim, Fielding didn’t return after the holiday break in production and headed for France, with a rep for the actor coyly stating, “One of the main cast members who has not been well is not recovered enough to complete the filming.” As vague as that is, everything has been pointing directly to Fielding, who evidently ditched the production around three quarters of the way in.
That leaves The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin in a tailspin, with the cast and crew seeing what we can imagine will be no future for the show that they have put so much time and effort into. Considering that “millions of pounds” went into the making of season two, there could be legal ramifications as well.
And then there is the matter of Noel Fielding. It’s a bad move to ditch a production at any point, but we do hope he is OK healthwise. If so, there’s also now the question as to where that leaves him with game show Never Mind the Buzzcocks and competition series The Great British Bake Off.
In The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin, the character “sets out on a journey of wildly absurd escapades when he’s made the reluctant leader of a band of outlaws — and tasked with outwitting corrupt lawman and self-appointed thief-taker Jonathan Wilde. In this irreverent retelling set in the 18th century, Turpin is the most famous but least likely of highway robbers, whose success is defined mostly by his charm, showmanship and great hair. Together with his gang of lovable rogues, Turpin rides the highs and lows of his new endeavors, including a brush with celebrity, all whilst trying to escape the clutches of the thief-taker.”
Apple TV+ has been kind of a secret home to amazing shows. While Ted Lasso took off and Severance has made it known it’s an Emmy presence for the foreseeable future, there are so many others that are killing it: Shrinking, The Morning Show, Silo, Slow Horses, etc. And, really, there was no reason not to put The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin in the conversation. It’s just too bad we’ll likely never see how far it could have gone…
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Since it launched last year, Pokémon TCG Pocket players have been eager to get to do the “trading” part of the game’s title. Well, the feature is finally coming to the hit mobile adaptation later this month, and the developers have revealed how that system will actually work in practice. Will you be able to instantly…