Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco attended the 2025 Golden Globes, marking their first public appearance as an engaged couple since announcing their engagement in December. While they chose not to walk the red carpet together, Benny was a constant presence by Selena’s side during the star-studded evening.

The couple’s moment in the spotlight didn’t escape the Golden Globes’ signature humour. Host Nikki Glaser playfully roasted the pair, quipping, “Selena Gomez—nominated for Emilia Perez and Only Murders in the Building—is here tonight with her new fiancé, Benny Blanco. And Benny Blanco is here because of the genie that granted that wish. Man, lucky guy.” Selena and Benny laughed off the joke, with Benny affectionately kissing Selena on the shoulder as she jokingly pretended to be the lucky one.

Selena was nominated in two categories at the ceremony: Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture for Emilia Perez and Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Series—Musical or Comedy—for Only Murders in the Building.

The roast quickly went viral, with fans sharing their reactions on social media. Tweets ranged from “Selena Gomez’s fiancé, Benny Blanco, getting roasted at this year’s #GoldenGlobes was the best part of the show” to “Selena and Benny knew Nikki was gonna to roast them, and they took it like champs.”

ICYDK, Selena announced her engagement last month through a series of heartwarming photos. One showcased a close-up of her stunning diamond ring, another featured her admiring it, and the last two captured sweet moments with Benny, including him kissing her cheek. Sharing the pictures, Selena wrote, “Forever begins now,” while Benny cheekily commented, “Hey wait… that’s my wife.”

The couple’s Golden Globes debut and viral moments have left fans even more excited about their future together.

As we step into the new year, Sabrina Carpenter is once again capturing attention, this time with a new coffee creation. The popular singer and songwriter has teamed up with a major coffee chain to launch Sabrina’s Brown Sugar Shakin’ Espresso, a refreshing iced drink combining bold espresso, smooth oat milk, and sweet brown sugar. This exciting new beverage is set to hit stores just in time for the New Year, offering fans and coffee lovers alike a delicious way to kickstart 2025.

The drink is more than just a beverage; it’s a celebration of flavor and creativity. The iced espresso drink blends rich espresso with the creamy sweetness of oat milk and a hint of brown sugar. But what makes it even more special is the playful energy Sabrina brings to the table. The launch is accompanied by an engaging and lively ad campaign called Shake That Ess, which captures Sabrina’s trademark humor and lively personality, infusing her creative spirit into the drink and the entire campaign.

This new drink release reflects a growing trend of celebrity collaborations within the food and beverage industry, where artists bring their personal touch to beloved products. Sabrina, known for her chart-topping hits, including “Espresso,” has infused her personality into this drink, creating a fun and lighthearted option for fans to enjoy. As the campaign rolls out, expect to see fans and influencers shaking their drinks and embracing the joy that comes with the new year.

But Sabrina’s Brown Sugar Shakin’ Espresso isn’t just a delicious drink; it’s also about bringing people together. The ad campaign showcases a room full of people joyfully shaking their drinks to the beat of Sabrina’s track “Espresso,” mirroring the frothy texture of the iced drink. It’s a moment of levity, an invitation to take life a little less seriously, and enjoy the fun side of things—just as Sabrina’s music often does.

Alongside the launch of this new drink, there’s also a special limited-edition Shakin’ Espresso Shaker, available exclusively for fans. This unique shaker will drop at 9 a.m. PT on New Year’s Eve, adding even more excitement to the festivities. In addition, a special $5 meal deal will be offered, which includes two delicious Wake-Up Wrap sandwiches and a choice of either hot or iced coffee.

Sabrina’s Brown Sugar Shakin’ Espresso will officially launch in stores on December 31, just in time for the celebrations. This bold new creation is sure to shake things up as we enter the new year, offering coffee lovers a fun, flavorful start to 2025.

Jason Momoa is making a big return to the DC Universe, but this time in a different role. The actor, famous for his portrayal of Aquaman, has officially signed on to play the iconic alien bounty hunter Lobo in the highly anticipated Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, set to release in 2026. This exciting casting news marks a major step for Momoa, who has long expressed his passion for bringing the blue-skinned, cigar-smoking character to life on the big screen.

Lobo first made his appearance in DC Comics in 1983 in Omega Men No. 3, created by Roger Slifer and Keith Giffen. Known for his super strength, healing powers, and no-nonsense attitude, Lobo is one of the most feared and unpredictable figures in the DC Universe. The character’s tough and irreverent personality has earned him a dedicated fanbase, and fans have been clamoring for years to see him in a live-action adaptation.

While Lobo has been the subject of multiple failed attempts to bring him to the silver screen in previous years, with names like Dwayne Johnson once circling the role, Momoa’s long-standing wish to play the character finally comes to fruition with Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow. The actor even referenced his past hopes during a press tour for Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, sharing a quote in which he expressed his hope that DC would eventually call him for Lobo’s role. On Instagram, he captioned it with a simple yet powerful, “they called.”

This casting is particularly noteworthy as it shows how the new leadership at DC Studios, led by James Gunn and Peter Safran, is embracing fan favorites from the past regime, offering them fresh opportunities in new roles within the revamped DC Universe. Momoa’s transition from Aquaman to Lobo marks the first such move, demonstrating the studio’s commitment to keeping beloved actors in the fold, even in new incarnations.

Momoa’s appearance in Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow will also be a key part of the new era for DC films, with the movie following Superman: Legacy, which is set to premiere earlier in July 2026. This dynamic reimagining of the DC Universe will undoubtedly bring exciting changes for fans, and Momoa’s turn as Lobo will surely be one of its standout moments.

Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow is slated for release on June 26, 2026, starring Milly Alcock as the titular Supergirl. It is set to be the second feature in the new DC Universe, continuing the momentum of the upcoming Superman film. Fans can look forward to seeing how Lobo’s fierce, larger-than-life persona fits into this thrilling new chapter of the DC Universe.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt have finalised their divorce settlement after a lengthy eight-year legal process, according to Jolie’s attorney. The former couple, who married in 2014 and have six children together, were once considered one of Hollywood’s most famous duos, known as “Brangelina.”

Jolie filed for divorce in 2016, citing “irreconcilable differences.” It was later revealed in separate court proceedings that she accused Pitt of abusive behaviour toward her and two of their children during a private jet incident that year. However, Pitt was not charged following an investigation, and he has consistently denied the allegations.Jolie’s lawyer, James Simon, stated that his client has focused on “finding peace and healing for their family” since the divorce began. He added, “This is just one part of a long, ongoing process that started eight years ago. Frankly, Angelina is exhausted, but she is relieved this one part is over.”

The details of the settlement remain confidential, but the agreement marks the end of a significant chapter in the couple’s legal proceedings.When their separation was first made public in 2016, both Jolie and Pitt expressed a desire for privacy during the process. Since then, they have largely refrained from speaking extensively about their relationship. However, several court cases have revealed a tense and acrimonious divorce, with Jolie accusing Pitt of a “vindictive war” and Pitt claiming Jolie aimed to undermine his business ventures.

The settlement does not appear to resolve their ongoing legal dispute over Chateau Miraval, a French vineyard they purchased together in 2008 for €25 million (£21.3 million). The vineyard, which was also the site of their wedding, has been a source of contention. In 2022, Pitt alleged that Jolie sold her share of the property to Russian billionaire Yuri Shefler, the owner of Stolichnaya vodka, without informing him, in an attempt to harm his wine investment.At the time of their marriage, the couple was among the most financially successful figures in Hollywood, with a combined net worth estimated at $400 million (£319 million), according to Forbes.

Pitt and Jolie first met on the set of the 2005 film Mr. & Mrs. Smith, and their relationship quickly became a media sensation. For Pitt, the marriage to Jolie was his second, following his high-profile marriage to Jennifer Aniston. For Jolie, it was her third marriage, following her previous unions with actors Billy Bob Thornton and Jonny Lee Miller.

Both stars have had highly successful careers. Jolie is known for her roles in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Changeling, and Girl, Interrupted, with her latest project being the biographical film Maria, about opera singer Maria Callas. Pitt, famous for roles in Fight Club, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and Twelve Monkeys, is currently filming F1, a movie about Formula One racing, in which he plays veteran driver Sonny Hayes.

Alex Cooper made a monumental gesture of love and gratitude for her parents this holiday season, buying them a beautiful home in Los Angeles. The popular podcast host, known for her hit show, shared this heartfelt news during a Christmas episode, recounting the emotional moment when she and her husband, Matt Kaplan, surprised her parents with the incredible gift.

“My parents are officially moving to Los Angeles, California, and I bought them a house,” Cooper announced with emotion. “It makes me so emotional thinking about it because when I started my podcast, I had some vision of what I hoped it would turn into. But to be able to go to my parents this past summer and say, ‘I want to buy you guys a house and I want to do this for you,’ was truly something special. I just want you to be happy and thrive – I want nothing in return.”

This thoughtful act was not only about giving back but also about honoring the sacrifices her parents made throughout her life. Cooper opened up about how her parents supported her dreams, even when it meant financial and emotional sacrifices. Her mom, for instance, took her to community colleges to support her aspirations in film, while her father drove her to countless soccer tournaments in the hopes of earning a college scholarship.

“I would not be where I am today without my parents,” Cooper confessed. “Buying them a house is the least I could do because of all the sacrifices they made for me. They gave so much for me to have the opportunities I have today.”

This generous gesture comes on the heels of a major career milestone for Cooper. After securing a game-changing $125 million, three-year deal with SiriusXM for her podcast, the star has cemented her place as one of the most influential figures in the podcasting world. Cooper’s dedicated fanbase, affectionately known as the “Daddy Gang,” helped propel her podcast to the top, making it one of the most listened-to shows, second only to Joe Rogan’s podcast.

For Cooper, buying her parents a home in Los Angeles following the $125M SiriusXM deal symbolizes her immense gratitude and the importance of family. She reflected on how her parents’ dedication and hard work shaped her journey and enabled her to reach the incredible heights she enjoys today. “I want nothing in return,” she emphasized. “This is just about them enjoying life, and if I have kids, maybe they’ll babysit sometimes too!”

This generous act reflects not just Cooper’s success but also the love she has for the people who helped her get to where she is today.

When Squid Game first aired on Netflix, its story of desperate, debt-ridden people fighting for survival in a deadly, childlike game of competition became an instant cultural phenomenon. With its disturbing imagery, clever social commentary, and high-stakes tension, it quickly became the most popular series on Netflix. In season two, the show returns with darker themes and a heightened sense of urgency, blending elements of personal struggles with worldwide political divides. Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, who drew from personal experiences and global issues, opens up about what fans can expect from this new season that promises to be as socially poignant as it is thrilling.

The Divide: Red vs. Blue, A Global Metaphor

In Squid Game season two, Hwang continues to explore themes of social division. “I wanted to highlight the theme of taking sides,” he explains, standing in the giant dormitory set where players gather. A new addition to this set features a giant blue “O” and red “X” that represent two opposing factions of players. This visual cue mirrors the ongoing global divide, symbolizing two groups marked by stark ideological differences.

This division is not just a symbolic aesthetic but plays a critical role in the structure of season two. Unlike season one, where players could vote to end the game, this time the vote to continue is mandatory after every round. Players are separated into two camps: one side believes they are the ones who deserve the money and victory, while the other side insists that the game must end to prevent more suffering. The split echoes the divide in many parts of the world, from generational conflict in Korea to the bitter polarization in places like the United States. This is Hwang’s way of asking a fundamental question: “Is the majority always right?”

“We live in a democratic society, and everyone has their own right to vote, but the dominant side rules,” Hwang explains. “So I wanted to pose the question: Is the majority always right?” This question is particularly relevant in today’s political landscape, where division is rampant and multiple perspectives often lead to bitter conflict rather than constructive dialogue. The underlying tension between individual and collective rights runs through the entire series, offering viewers a sobering critique of societal polarization.

A Dystopian Echo of Real-World Fissures

The relevance of Squid Game season two to contemporary issues is undeniable. Hwang is keenly aware that the show will be released at a time when the world is facing unprecedented political and social divisions. The series is dropping around the same time as the U.S. presidential election, which Hwang calls “the ultimate O-X event.” This timing is not coincidental, as the show seeks to draw parallels between the brutal battles on-screen and the real-world conflicts driven by issues like class, race, and wealth inequality.

“There’s no room for debate, only hostility,” Hwang says, pointing out how societies, including Korea, are divided along generational lines, with younger generations clashing with older ones over the direction of the nation. Squid Game is not just a survival drama; it’s a reflection of the increasingly dangerous and polarized nature of contemporary political and social discourse. The games in the show serve as a metaphor for real-world battles for power, resources, and survival, amplifying the stakes for the players.

Gi-hun’s Transformation: From Survivor to Savior

Season two picks up right where season one left off, with Gi-hun, the sole survivor of the first deadly game, preparing to reunite with his estranged daughter in America. However, instead of boarding the plane, he has a change of heart. Unable to live with the knowledge that the sadistic competition continues, Gi-hun’s journey becomes one of conscience and redemption. Hwang draws a clear parallel to the famous red and blue pill choice in The Matrix, where Gi-hun, like Neo, chooses awareness over ignorance, embarking on a mission to stop the games.

Lee Jung-jae, who plays Gi-hun, notes that the character’s evolution in season two was carefully considered. Gi-hun’s shift from an idealistic underachiever to a grim, mission-driven man is explored in depth. “One word that was top of mind for me while shooting season two was ‘conscience,’” Lee says. He continues, “It’s not something that’s absolute, but to call ourselves human, we have to be true to our conscience, and when we are not, we have to be able to feel shame.” This moral struggle will be central to Gi-hun’s character arc in season two, as he confronts his past choices and their consequences.

Returning Faces and New Additions

While Gi-hun is the only returning protagonist from season one, several key figures make a return. Front Man (Lee Byung-hun), the enigmatic leader of the game, is back, along with Jun-ho (Wi Ha-joon), the police detective who uncovered the Front Man’s true identity. Gong Yoo, who played the mysterious recruiter in season one, will also return in season two, though his role is expected to be expanded as the show delves deeper into the shadowy world behind the games.

However, most of the new season’s ensemble is comprised of fresh faces. One standout is Jo Yu-ri, a former K-pop star who plays a young woman caught in the game alongside her ex-boyfriend. This storyline reflects Hwang’s interest in exploring the younger generation’s economic struggles, especially after the cryptocurrency boom and the resulting debt crisis that affected many young people during the pandemic. The show will also introduce new players with personal backstories that intersect in unexpected ways, creating more intrigue and tension for both the characters and the audience.

Global Success and the Pressure to Deliver

The success of Squid Game season one was overwhelming, leading to increased expectations for season two. Netflix, which initially had modest projections for the first season, has invested significantly in the second season, offering Hwang more creative freedom and a larger budget. “In season one, we had to tweak the idea because of budget limitations,” Hwang recalls. “But this time, I was able to fully realize my creative vision.”

This higher budget allowed Hwang to create even more elaborate sets and incorporate CGI, offering an even more immersive and visually stunning experience for viewers. However, with greater resources came greater pressure. Hwang admits to having “nightmares” about the production process, fearing that the second season might not live up to the expectations set by its predecessor. Despite the anxiety, Hwang is determined to continue challenging himself creatively. “Comfort zone will kill you,” he says, referencing his personal motto, which encourages him to push boundaries and explore new territory.

The Cultural Impact of Squid Game

Squid Game has not only become a global pop culture phenomenon but has also placed Korean entertainment at the forefront of the international stage. Following in the footsteps of Parasite and BTS, the show has played a key role in the mainstreaming of Hallyu, the Korean Wave. The success of Squid Game is proof that compelling stories can come from anywhere and resonate with people worldwide.

As Hwang reflects on the massive success of the show, he acknowledges that the series has surpassed his initial expectations. Despite the immense pressure to deliver a follow-up that meets fans’ expectations, Hwang remains grounded in his belief that Squid Game’s greatest strength lies in its ability to provoke thought and spark conversations about the world we live in. The success of Squid Game has proven that good storytelling can transcend borders and language barriers, opening doors for more international projects to gain global recognition.

A Show with a Darker, Urgent Message

Season two of Squid Game promises to be even darker and more relevant than the first, pushing viewers to question the very systems that drive human behavior. The themes of survival, morality, and societal division resonate deeply in today’s fractured world, where inequality and polarization continue to shape global discourse. Hwang Dong-hyuk’s vision for the series is a reflection of his personal struggles, his observations of the world around him, and his commitment to creating a series that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Whether Squid Game season two will surpass its predecessor or struggle under the weight of its own success remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the game is far from over.

Beyoncé delivered an unforgettable performance during the Netflix Christmas Day halftime show, setting the stage on fire with her star power. The iconic pop star took center stage at NRG Stadium, where the Houston Texans faced the Baltimore Ravens, but the game quickly became secondary to the explosive Beyoncé halftime show. Joining Beyoncé were special guests Post Malone, Shaboozey, and her daughter Blue Ivy, making it a night to remember.

The show began with a pre-recorded segment, where Beyoncé, wearing a white cowboy hat, performed “16 Carriages” while riding a white horse. This moment marked the first time she performed tracks from her highly anticipated Cowboy Carter album live. Shortly after, Beyoncé was joined by rising country stars Tanner Adell, Tiera Kennedy, Reyna Roberts, and Brittney Spencer for a moving rendition of The Beatles’ “Blackbird,” showcasing Beyoncé’s powerful vocal range.

As the live performance kicked into high gear, Beyoncé dazzled the crowd in a sparkling white leotard and matching chaps. She performed “Ya Ya,” a track nominated for a Grammy, bringing intense energy to the stadium. With dozens of dancers and musicians backing her up, Beyoncé’s performance harkened back to the #Beychella vibes from her legendary 2018 Coachella performance.

The surprise collaborations continued as Shaboozey joined Beyoncé for the electrifying performance of “Spaghetti,” followed by Post Malone’s appearance for their joint rendition of “Levi’s Jeans,” performed in front of a truck covered in denim. The crowd went wild when Blue Ivy joined her mother on stage during “Texas Hold ‘Em,” a hit that topped both the country and pop charts earlier this year. Beyoncé praised the Texas crowd, saying, “It’s only right we do ‘Texas Hold ‘Em’ in Texas for the first time.”

Beyoncé’s performance was nothing short of mesmerizing, taking the Christmas Day halftime show to an entirely new level. The electric atmosphere might just make the Christmas Day halftime show as coveted as the Super Bowl Halftime performance. With final Grammy voting taking place over the holidays, Beyoncé, with 10 nominations—including four in country music—was already set to dominate the awards season.

Throughout the show, Beyoncé made full use of the stadium, performing Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” while riding in a car and closing the show by ascending high above the stage. As she wrapped up the performance, Beyoncé expressed her gratitude to the audience: “Merry Christmas! God Bless y’all. Thank you so much!”

Beyoncé’s show-stopping Christmas Day halftime performance has redefined the holiday tradition, bringing fans an unforgettable experience, and cementing her legacy as one of the most influential performers in modern music.

2024 has been a year of unforgettable red carpet moments, where movie premieres pushed the boundaries of spectacle. From daring stunts to jaw-dropping performances, these events weren’t just about celebrity glamour—they were about making a statement. Some premieres brought thrilling action directly to the red carpet, while others staged immersive experiences, capturing the essence of their films. This year, studios went all out, with stunts that shocked and delighted audiences alike, ensuring these events went down in Hollywood history as the most over-the-top of the year.

‘Kung Fu Panda 4’

In March, the premiere for Kung Fu Panda 4 took over The Grove in Los Angeles with an electric energy. Jack Black, known for his larger-than-life personality, kicked off the event by dancing to a cover of “Baby One More Time” with Tenacious D partner Kyle Gass. The premiere also featured an elaborate Dragon dance and Black showcasing his trademark kicks. As the night progressed, Black and the cast paraded through the shopping center, hopping on a trolley and waving to fans on their way to the screening.

‘The Fall Guy’

The premiere of The Fall Guy in April is arguably the most stunt-packed event of the year. With a focus on stuntmen, the premiere had motorcycles speeding across the red carpet, stuntmen being pulled through the backdrop, and even one performer diving off a platform onto the street below. The event reached its peak when Ryan Gosling returned dressed as Beavis from Beavis and Butt-Head, along with Mikey Day, completing an iconic moment from their Saturday Night Live skit.

‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’

In May, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes brought the action to the red carpet with realistic-looking apes riding horses down Hollywood Boulevard. The stunt mirrored a major marketing move, where the apes had made appearances in key cities before the premiere. It was a wild spectacle that combined live-action thrills with a cinematic vision.

‘Hit Man’

Glen Powell’s premiere for Hit Man in Austin took a more playful approach. Powell, known for his charm, invited his parents to troll him by holding up humorous signs as they walked the red carpet. This unexpected moment added a personal touch to the event and highlighted Powell’s lighthearted personality while promoting the film.

‘The Garfield Movie’

In May, The Garfield Movie added a special touch to its L.A. premiere, rolling out an orange carpet for the iconic animated cat. The premiere also saw Garfield’s paw prints cemented outside the TCL Chinese Theater, marking a fun and memorable moment for fans and attendees alike.

‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’

For the premiere of Bad Boys: Ride or Die, Will Smith made a grand entrance in May by arriving on Hollywood Boulevard atop a double-decker bus, rapping and hyping up the crowd below. The fun, high-energy arrival fit perfectly with the spirit of the Bad Boys franchise and set the tone for the premiere that followed.

‘Inside Out 2’

The premiere of Inside Out 2 in June turned Hollywood Boulevard into a circus, complete with jugglers, performers, and life-sized versions of the film’s emotions. The immersive atmosphere, paired with the star-studded cast, brought the whimsical world of Pixar’s latest film to life.

‘MaXXXine’

For the premiere of MaXXXine in June, A24 stirred up controversy by hiring fake protestors to picket the event. The actors posing as protestors chanted, “Maxine has got to go” and “horror equals porn,” adding an unconventional layer to the premiere that fit the edgy nature of the film.

‘Gladiator II’

Hollywood Boulevard was transformed into the Colosseum for the November premiere of Gladiator II, complete with fire cauldrons, statues, and an impressive set design that made it feel like ancient Rome. The red carpet was a visual spectacle, setting the stage for the return of the epic franchise with stars like Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington leading the charge.

‘Squid Game’

Netflix’s premiere of Squid Game in December was one of the most interactive, with hundreds of fans donning the show’s signature green tracksuits to participate in a real-life version of “Red Light, Green Light.” The immersive event included a 5k run with challenges and provided an unforgettable experience for fans eager to witness the return of the show.

These premieres proved that the red carpet is no longer just a place to showcase glamorous outfits—it’s an opportunity for studios to engage audiences and bring cinematic worlds to life. Whether through jaw-dropping stunts or interactive fan experiences, these events made 2024 a year to remember in Hollywood.

Genesis Rodriguez has been receiving widespread acclaim for her performance as Josie Carrillo in Taylor Sheridan’s Lioness. As the season two finale wraps up, Rodriguez finds herself reflecting on her growth as both an actress and an individual, having faced challenges and obstacles that pushed her to discover new strengths and abilities. Her portrayal of Josie, a U.S. Army captain forced into the CIA’s Lioness program, has captured the attention of viewers as she navigates both the high-stakes world of covert operations and the personal turmoil surrounding her family’s connection to a Mexican cartel.

For Rodriguez, the role of Josie was more than just a career milestone; it was a journey of self-discovery. She admits that the part initially intimidated her, but it was exactly that fear that pushed her to take the leap. “It wasn’t natural for me,” Rodriguez says. “It was actually like a challenge… When it scares you, there is this growth.” The intensity of the role, which demanded both physicality and emotional depth, made Rodriguez realize how much she was capable of achieving. The character of Josie challenged her to grow as an actress and helped her uncover strengths she didn’t know she had. “I didn’t know I could do all the things that I was able to do,” she reflects, adding that the experience helped her grow both professionally and personally.

One of the most compelling aspects of Lioness is the complex relationship between Josie and Cruz, a fellow recruit in the Lioness program. Their bond, which evolves from mutual respect and understanding to romance, is a pivotal part of the storyline. Rodriguez explains that for Josie, Cruz represents the one person who treated her with genuine humanity. “It was the one person who spoke to her like a human, who understood where she was coming from,” Rodriguez notes. This emotional connection becomes even more significant as Josie faces the harsh realities of her family’s involvement in the cartel. When Josie confronts her father, Pablo Carrillo, she’s forced to reconcile with the fact that the man she thought she knew is far more brutal and political than she ever imagined. Rodriguez describes the shock Josie experiences when her father’s true nature is revealed, emphasizing how people often avoid seeing family members for who they really are. “You can look away at certain things because it’s family,” she says. “But then there could be so much avoidance until you’re actually confronted with this person again, and you’re seeing them for who they are.”

The season two finale of Lioness delivers some of the most intense action of the series, with Josie thrust into a chaotic battle in Iran. Her helicopter is shot down, and she must fight for survival amid an all-out war. Rodriguez’s performance during this scene is raw and powerful, particularly during a pivotal moment when Josie screams in sheer desperation. The scream, while scripted, comes from a place of instinct, Rodriguez says, explaining that once she was in the heat of the moment, the emotion took over. “When you’re actually in the moment… feeling the explosions, seeing the chaos—it just comes out naturally,” she reflects. This scene, along with the rest of the action-packed finale, marks a turning point for Josie, who is now fully immersed in the Lioness program and all its complexities.

Working alongside such a talented cast, including Zoe Saldaña, Nicole Kidman, and Michael Kelly, has been one of the highlights of Rodriguez’s experience on Lioness. Rodriguez shares how much she admires Zoe Saldaña, saying, “I’ve looked up to her for so many years. To share screen time with her and witness her talent was a gift.” Saldaña’s influence, both on and off-screen, had a lasting impact on Rodriguez, who praises her as “one-of-a-kind” and someone who could do no wrong. The camaraderie among the cast was one of the reasons Lioness became such a special experience for Rodriguez, who describes the entire ensemble as dedicated and collaborative.

The physical demands of playing Josie were no small feat. Rodriguez had to train extensively to build muscle, learn how to fly a helicopter, and perform stunts. “This whole series kicked my ass in the best way possible,” she says. “It challenged me in the best ways.” Despite the grueling preparation, Rodriguez embraces the challenges because they pushed her to expand her capabilities. She admits she’s proud of the growth she experienced and grateful for the opportunity to explore new facets of herself as an actress.

As Lioness season two ends, fans are left wondering about the fate of Josie and the rest of the Lioness team. Rodriguez is hopeful that the show will return for a third season, and she is eager to continue exploring her character’s journey. “I’m crossing all my fingers and toes that we get picked up for another season,” she says with enthusiasm. The anticipation for Lioness season three is palpable, and Rodriguez is clearly excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for her character.

Beyond Lioness, Rodriguez is also working on new projects, including a role in Netflix’s The Night Agent. “I’m playing such a different part in Night Agent,” she shares. “It’s a lot of fun… a lot of action and twists and turns.” The shift from the physically demanding role in Lioness to a more cerebral character in The Night Agent allows Rodriguez to showcase her versatility and take on a completely new type of challenge. She’s clearly enthusiastic about this next chapter in her career, saying she loves the idea of constantly being pushed outside her comfort zone.

Looking back at her time on Lioness, Rodriguez is full of gratitude for the experience and the opportunity to grow as both an actress and a person. “I’m still coming off the high of Lioness,” she says, expressing her appreciation for the fans who embraced the show. As her career continues to rise, it’s clear that Rodriguez is ready for whatever comes next. Whether it’s a potential third season of Lioness or new projects on the horizon, she’s excited for the future and eager to continue taking on roles that challenge her in new and unexpected ways.

Dan Abrams, a prominent legal analyst and media entrepreneur, will be stepping away from his primetime show Dan Abrams Live on NewsNation in February 2024. Abrams, who is known for his multifaceted role in the media world, has decided to shift his focus and prioritize his other ventures.

In a heartfelt announcement at the end of his program, Abrams explained that despite his passion for the show, balancing the demands of his daily radio show, his role as a legal analyst, and the growing responsibilities of his various media businesses had become increasingly difficult. “I devote far more of my time to this show than anything else, but it’s not practical to do this show all week while also running and expanding my businesses,” Abrams shared.

With a career that spans across numerous platforms, including hosting On Patrol Live on Reelz, his work as ABC News’ chief legal analyst, and his ownership of digital media brands such as Mediaite and Law & Crime Network, Abrams has had a busy schedule. He also emphasized the importance of recognizing when to delegate, saying, “After three years of this unexpected opportunity, I’ve reached the point where it’s impossible to continue devoting the time needed for this show while growing my other businesses.”

Though Abrams is leaving his role as the anchor of the show, he will continue to work with NewsNation in a different capacity, with more details expected to be shared in February. As Abrams prepares to step aside, NewsNation is expected to name a new host to take over the critical 9 p.m. slot.

Abrams was integral in NewsNation’s rebranding when the channel shifted from its previous identity to a 24-hour cable news format under new ownership. His role helped shape the network’s vision for politically neutral, intelligent news coverage, aiming to provide an alternative to the partisan content dominating many other news outlets.

His departure marks a significant shift for the network, but it also highlights the challenges of balancing multiple high-profile roles in the fast-paced world of media. As Abrams focuses on growing his media empire, it remains to be seen who will step in to take over his primetime show, continuing the legacy of thoughtful, unbiased reporting he has championed.