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.

In 2024, whiskey emerged as one of the most iconic cultural symbols, not just in bars but in music as well. From genre-blending hits to celebrity-backed whiskey brands, the spirit of whiskey became synonymous with both escapism and celebration amid a turbulent year. Tracks like Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” Hozier’s “Too Sweet,” and Moneybagg Yo’s “Whiskey Whiskey” showcased whiskey as a central theme, elevating it beyond a mere drink to a key element of musical storytelling. As these hits soared through the charts, whiskey became a metaphor for navigating life’s highs and lows, perfectly capturing the spirit of 2024.

The surge in whiskey-themed music can be traced to more than just creative expression—2024 marked a time when whiskey was more than a drink; it was a moment of reflection and release. With the world facing challenges like  economic instability, global conflicts, and social shifts, whiskey became the cultural antidote. These musical hits reflected the times, with whiskey as a symbol of both sorrow and celebration.

In parallel, celebrity involvement in the whiskey industry reached new heights in 2024. High-profile figures in the entertainment industry, such as Matthew McConaughey with his Longbranch whiskey, Nick Offerman’s Lagavulin, and other notable stars, introduced their own brands, driving the whiskey market to unprecedented levels of popularity. These collaborations further embedded whiskey into mainstream culture and helped shape it as one of the top spirits of the year.

The rise of whiskey can also be tied to World Whiskey Day, which is celebrated every year on the third Saturday of May. In 2024, this day of celebration on May 18th coincided with the whiskey music explosion, adding to the cultural momentum. Whiskey, a spirit deeply tied to tradition and history, took on new layers of meaning in 2024, both as a drink to savor and as a symbol of defiance, release, and indulgence.

Top Whiskeys to Try in 2024

• Heaven’s Door Whiskey: A premium whiskey from the legendary Bob Dylan, offering a rich, complex flavor that has won multiple awards. Its different variations, including straight bourbon and rye, continue to be crowd favorites.
• Kikori Whiskey: This Japanese whiskey, made from 100% rice, stands out for its smooth taste, aged in a variety of casks, including French oak and sherry. It’s one of the first whiskeys crafted by an Asian American woman.
• Four Roses Small Batch: A beautifully smooth bourbon with hints of caramel and cherry, Four Roses Small Batch is a favorite for those seeking a slightly sweeter option.
• Redbreast 21 Years Old: Known for its rich and creamy honeyed flavors, Redbreast was named the best Irish whiskey for 2024 by the World Whiskey Awards.

The rise of whiskey as both a drink and a cultural symbol shows no signs of slowing down. Music, spirits, and celebrity collaborations created a perfect storm that made 2024 a defining year for whiskey. Whether you’re celebrating World Whiskey Day or simply enjoying a night out, whiskey’s influence on pop culture will continue to resonate in the years to come.

As the year wraps up, the whiskey trend shows no signs of fading, and it’s clear that this spirit will continue to be at the center of musical hits, cultural moments, and global celebrations.

Sabrina Carpenter has achieved her second top 10 entry on the Billboard 200 as her holiday album Fruitcake re-enters the Dec. 21-dated chart at No. 10. This resurgence is largely due to the album’s wide physical release on Dec. 6, which included CD, vinyl, and cassette formats. Carpenter’s chart-topping album Short n’ Sweet also remains in the top 10, holding steady at No. 5. Previously, Fruitcake peaked at No. 121 in 2023.

The album’s reentry was fuelled by a massive sales boost, marking the largest sales week for a holiday album in four years and the biggest vinyl sales week for a holiday set in the modern era since Luminate began electronically tracking sales in 1991. Additionally, the release was bolstered by the debut of Carpenter’s Netflix holiday special, A Nonsense Christmas, on the same day.

Originally released in November 2023 as a digital download and for streaming, Fruitcake saw a limited vinyl release in December 2023 exclusively through Carpenter’s official webstore. Its Dec. 6, 2024, wide release included three vinyl variants (one exclusive to Target), CDs, and cassettes, significantly expanding its reach.

In the week ending Dec. 12, the album earned 54,000 equivalent album units, reflecting a 1,040% increase, according to Luminate. Album sales accounted for 39,000 units (up a staggering 27,326%), while SEA units made up 15,000 (equivalent to 19.65 million on-demand streams). Of the album’s physical sales, vinyl formats dominated with 31,000 copies sold.

The last time a holiday album saw a bigger overall sales week was in October 2020, when Carrie Underwood’s My Gift debuted with 41,000 copies sold. On vinyl specifically, the previous record for a holiday set was just two weeks earlier, with The Philly Specials’ A Philly Special Christmas Party selling 22,000 vinyl copies.

output: Carpenter now joins an elite group of artists in 2024 to have two albums in the top 10 concurrently, including Taylor Swift, Morgan Wallen, Zach Bryan, Future, and Metro Boomin. This dual success further underscores her rising prominence in the music industry.

Beyond the Billboard 200, Fruitcake has debuted across multiple charts:

• No. 1 on Indie Store Album Sales,
• No. 2 on Vinyl Albums,
• No. 2 on Top Catalog Albums,
• No. 4 on Top Album Sales, and
• No. 3 (a new peak) on Top Holiday Albums.

The Billboard 200 chart ranks the week’s most popular albums in the U.S. based on multi-metric consumption, measured in equivalent album units compiled by Luminate. These units include album sales, track equivalent albums (TEA), and streaming equivalent albums (SEA), where one unit equals one album sale, 10 individual tracks sold, or 3,750 ad-supported or 1,250 paid/subscription on-demand streams. The full Dec. 21, 2024-dated charts will be available on Dec. 17 on Billboard’s website.

Other chart rankings include Top Album Sales, which highlights the week’s best-selling albums across all formats, and Vinyl Albums, focusing on top-selling vinyl records. Indie Store Album Sales lists the best-selling albums at independent music stores, while Top Holiday Albums and Top Catalogue Albums rank the most popular holiday and catalogue (older) albums, respectively, by equivalent album units.

With Fruitcake achieving historic sales figures and cementing its position across multiple charts, Sabrina Carpenter’s latest accomplishment reaffirms her ability to captivate audiences during the holiday season while establishing a lasting presence in the music industry.

Ariana Grande is open to performing at the Oscars with her Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo, as the two stars are eager to take the stage at Hollywood’s biggest night. Despite Wicked not being eligible for Best Original Song, Grande and Erivo have made it clear that they are more than ready to share their powerful voices in celebration of their iconic roles. Their chemistry both on and off-screen has captivated fans, and they’re prepared to bring that magic to the global stage if given the chance.

Grande, who has received her first-ever Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Glinda in Wicked, is already a frontrunner in the Best Supporting Actress category at the Academy Awards. Though Wicked’s iconic songs are not eligible for Best Original Song at the Oscars, the question remains: would Grande and Erivo still be willing to perform at the Oscars? The answer, according to Ariana herself, is a resounding “yes.”

In a recent interview at the Golden Globes First-Time Nominee Celebration, Ariana Grande shared her excitement about the possibility of performing with Erivo. “Of course, we love singing with each other,” Grande said. “I’ll sing together absolutely anywhere, anytime, especially in celebration of Wicked. And I love her, that’s my sister. Say the word and we’ll be there.” The heartfelt sentiment emphasizes the strong bond between the two stars, and it’s clear they are more than ready to take their Wicked energy to the Oscars stage.

Both Grande and Erivo have been receiving significant attention this awards season, with Erivo also nominated for a Golden Globe and generating Oscar buzz for her role as Elphaba in Wicked. Their standout performances have earned them widespread praise, positioning them as strong contenders for multiple accolades. The excitement surrounding Wicked is further heightened by the anticipation for the release of its second part, Wicked: For Good, which is set to hit theaters next year.

During the Golden Globes event, Grande shared that one of the most rewarding experiences of her career has been hearing feedback from her musical idol, Imogen Heap. “Imogen Heap, my musical idol since I was a young girl; hearing that she saw it with her daughter and loved it, that was very exciting,” said Grande. “We got to meet Steven Spielberg, that was also incredibly overwhelming and such an honor. And he was so kind, and it was just really exciting. You have these idols in music and film, and then to hear a kind thing said about your work is really extraordinarily special.”

As the Wicked movie continues to make waves in the industry, both Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are proving to be front-runners in this awards season. The musical’s success, along with their exceptional performances, has ignited an outpouring of enthusiasm from fans and industry professionals alike. With both stars receiving recognition for their work, many are eagerly hoping to see them perform at the Oscars.

Grande and Erivo’s undeniable talent, coupled with their deep connection as co-stars and friends, ensures that they are more than ready for any opportunity that comes their way. As they continue to shine in Wicked and build momentum for the awards season, it seems clear that Ariana Grande is open to performing at the Oscars—and if the call comes, she and Erivo will be ready to bring their magic to the stage.

Taylor Swift was truly spoilt by her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, for her 35th birthday. According to a new report from Page Six, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end went all out, spending an impressive $175,000 on gifts for the pop superstar. Kelce had been shopping for months, carefully selecting items Taylor had casually mentioned wanting, making sure her celebration was nothing short of unforgettable.

The private celebration, just the two of them, was a far cry from Taylor’s usual big birthday bashes in cities like Nashville or New York. Despite his busy schedule with the Chiefs, Kelce made sure to leave a mandatory NFL charity event early to be with Taylor on her special day. A source close to the couple shared that “Travis got her a ton of gifts,” emphasising his thoughtful approach to picking out presents.

This intimate birthday celebration marks another special moment in their relationship, which began in 2023 after Taylor attended a Chiefs game with Kelce’s mother, Donna. Their romance has been widely publicised since then, with Taylor often spotted cheering at Kansas City games, supporting Kelce as they secured their second consecutive Super Bowl victory in Las Vegas against the San Francisco 49ers.

Kelce, 35, made sure to pay attention to Taylor’s wishes, keeping track of things she had mentioned she liked. Some of the gifts were reportedly things she had casually mentioned, showcasing how attentive he is. The couple also reportedly enjoyed a heart-shaped birthday cake from Cami’s Cake Co., a bakery in Leawood, Kansas.

This isn’t the first time Kelce has lavished gifts on Taylor. For Valentine’s Day earlier this year, he reportedly spent around $22,000 on presents for the pop superstar. A source described him as being “not the type to leave these things to the last minute,” explaining that he had been picking up Christmas and birthday gifts for her for months.

As they continue to deepen their bond, Kelce and Swift are looking forward to spending quality time together. With the end of Taylor’s Eras Tour, she plans to “hibernate” with Travis in New York City, doing “normal things” as a couple. Both are eager to enjoy each other’s company as their relationship continues to flourish.

Taylor and Travis, who have been dating for over a year, have made it clear they are serious about each other. According to a source, “things with Travis are serious. He makes her very happy. They are great together.” The couple also plans to host both their families over the Christmas holidays. While engagement rumors swirl, sources suggest the couple is not rushing into that decision, instead enjoying their relationship and the “little nuances” that come with spending quality time together.

With their love growing stronger each day, it’s clear that Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift are in a deeply meaningful and exciting chapter of their relationship.

It’s confirmed! Selena Gomez is now engaged to music producer Benny Blanco. On December 11, 2024, Gomez posted the thrilling announcement on Instagram, stating, “Forever starts now,” with several pictures highlighting her beautiful engagement ring. The initial photo in the carousel featured a detailed shot of her marquise-cut diamond ring on a pavé band, perfectly paired with her stylish, translucent pink nails for a celebration-ready appearance. The engagement announcement displayed Gomez sprawled on a picnic blanket with a champagne bottle and some Taco Bell in the background—offering fans a look into the relaxed, personal moment.

In the comments, Blanco replied with a light-hearted note: “Hey, hold on…that’s my wife.” The couple’s connection has been tumultuous, and their engagement signifies the next phase in their journey as a pair.

A Love Story Steeped in Music

Gomez and Blanco’s romantic connection goes hand in hand with their musical history. The two have worked together professionally for years, creating some of Gomez’s most memorable hits. Blanco produced Gomez’s tracks “Same Old Love” and “Kill Em with Kindness” in 2015, followed by “Trust Nobody” in 2016. Their most recent collaboration was on the 2019 song “I Can’t Get Enough,” a catchy hit featuring J Balvin and Tainy. Blanco also produced Gomez’s 2023 single, “Single Soon.” The pair has undeniable chemistry, both on and off the stage.

The announcement of their engagement comes at a time when rumours about their relationship were making headlines. Fans first speculated about their engagement in August 2024 when Gomez shared a bathroom selfie featuring Blanco, cleverly hiding her ring finger with a heart emoji. The gossip mill was set ablaze when a popular account posted about a famous couple getting engaged after a year of dating. Gomez later dismissed the rumours by sharing another selfie, this time with her ringless hand visible.

Looking Toward the Future

Before their official engagement, both Gomez and Blanco had spoken publicly about their hopes for the future, including the idea of marriage and starting a family. In an interview earlier this year, Gomez revealed that she had always planned on adopting children, even before meeting Blanco. At 32, Gomez is still determined to start a family, though she has acknowledged that motherhood might look different for her. She has been open about her struggles with fertility, revealing that she cannot carry children. However, she remains hopeful and grateful for options like surrogacy and adoption, which she sees as beautiful opportunities for women who want to become mothers.

“I’m excited for what that journey will look like, but it’ll look a little different,” Gomez shared. “At the end of the day, I don’t care. It’ll be mine. It’ll be my baby.”

No Pressure, Just Love

Gomez and Blanco have been publicly dating since December 2023, but their bond goes far beyond the spotlight. In interviews, Gomez has expressed how easy and natural their connection is, noting that they don’t feel pressure to get married. “We always make sure we’re protecting what we have, but there are no rules,” she explained in an interview with Vanity Fair. “I want him to always be himself. I always want to be myself.”

Their relationship is marked by love and mutual respect, with Gomez describing Blanco as a light in her life. “He’s just been a light. A complete light in my life. He’s my best friend. I love telling him everything.”

A Tradition She’ll Skip

Despite their engagement, one tradition that Gomez is firm about skipping is changing her name. “I’m not changing my name no matter what,” she stated definitively. “I am Selena Gomez. That’s it.”

As they move forward in their relationship, the couple is focused on building their future together, free from external pressures. With their deep-rooted love, shared history, and exciting plans ahead, Gomez and Blanco’s journey is just beginning.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences (AMPAS) experienced a strong fiscal 2024, thanks to a surge in The Academy Awards viewership, but its Academy Museum faced a decline in income. Financial statements reveal a complex picture of the Film Academy’s performance, with Oscar revenue showing positive growth, while the Museum’s earnings have slipped after its initial success.

Academy Reaps Benefits from Oscar Revenue Surge

The Academy had a successful year with The Academy Awards, which saw a significant jump in viewership, reaching a post-pandemic high of 21 million viewers. This surge in ratings resulted in an increase in Oscar revenue, which rose to $146.6 million in fiscal 2024, compared to $143.5 million in the previous year. This growth reflects not only a boost in TV licensing deals with ABC and Buena Vista International but also increased sponsorships, screenings, and related events tied to the Oscars.

Oscar revenue, which is a major source of the Film Academy’s income, benefits from both fixed license fees and sales-based royalties. With the rise in TV ratings, advertising sales increased, contributing to the revenue spike. The Academy’s TV deals with Disney’s ABC and Buena Vista run until 2028, ensuring stability in the short term. However, as the Oscars continue to evolve, the Academy will need to address potential shifts in how the event reaches audiences, particularly with the growing demand for streaming options.

While Oscar revenue has risen, there is still uncertainty surrounding the future of The Academy Awards’ income, particularly when the Academy negotiates new deals or explores streaming platforms. With the Oscars not yet available for online streaming, both Disney and AMPAS are likely to push for digital access to tap into younger viewers. How this will impact future revenue remains unclear, especially given the slipping viewership in previous years.

Academy Museum Struggles with Revenue Slippage

In contrast to the positive momentum of the Oscars, the Academy Museum, one of the Academy’s major ventures, has seen its income decline. In fiscal 2024, the Museum earned $15.3 million in “earned revenues,” a drop from $18 million the previous year. This decrease is attributed to slower ticket sales, reduced sponsorships, and a downturn in event revenues. However, membership revenues showed slight growth, increasing from $4.9 million to $5.5 million, which suggests some stability in this area.

The Museum, which had garnered excitement upon its opening, quickly became a hub for screenings and industry events, hosting high-profile fundraisers and attracting A-list guests. Despite these star-studded affairs, the Museum has faced challenges, including complaints about some exhibits and leadership changes. These difficulties led AMPAS to lay off about 2% of its workforce in October 2024, including several VP roles, and to replace the Museum’s chief.

Though the Museum’s fundraising efforts continue to draw attention, the decline in earned revenues indicates that the excitement surrounding its launch may be fading. As a result, the Academy may need to rethink its approach to ensure long-term financial sustainability for this prestigious venue.

Film Academy’s Overall Financial Growth

Despite the slowdown in Museum income, AMPAS’ total revenue saw a significant increase in 2024. The Film Academy reported total revenue of $263 million, up from $225.6 million in 2023. This growth was largely driven by investment returns, with AMPAS’ investment portfolio rising by $66.7 million to a total of $762.5 million. While the Oscar revenue contributed substantially to this increase, the growth in investment income helped balance out the Museum’s revenue challenges.

Looking Forward: The Future of the Oscars and the Academy Museum

The Film Academy remains heavily reliant on the continued success of The Academy Awards, which contribute the lion’s share of revenue. However, with viewership trends shifting and the pressure to adapt to the digital era, the future of Oscar revenue is uncertain. AMPAS faces the challenge of maintaining strong TV ratings and finding new avenues for reaching younger audiences, potentially through streaming.

Meanwhile, the Academy Museum, which quickly gained popularity as a cultural landmark, will need to address its financial challenges. The slipping income and leadership changes highlight the difficulties the Museum is facing in maintaining its initial momentum.

As the Academy moves forward, it will need to navigate these challenges while ensuring the continued success of the Oscars and finding new ways to drive revenue for both the Film Academy and the Museum. With evolving industry trends and audience preferences, AMPAS is at a pivotal moment in its financial strategy, balancing Oscar revenue growth with the uncertain future of the Museum’s income.

As the holiday shopping season accelerates, Cyber Monday 2024 is poised to smash previous records, with consumers expected to spend a staggering amount online. Following the success of Black Friday, where shoppers spent a record $10.8 billion online, Cyber Monday is expected to see even more significant numbers as e-commerce continues to dominate the retail landscape.

Shoppers Spend Big This Holiday Season

Shoppers are already on track to break spending records in 2024. With just a few days left in the post-Thanksgiving shopping marathon, online retail is forecasted to reach an all-time high, setting a new benchmark for Cyber Monday. According to industry analysts, this year’s Cyber Monday could see U.S. consumers spending over $13 billion, making it the biggest online shopping day of the year. This surge follows the impressive spending seen on Black Friday, which saw a massive $10.8 billion spent online, a 10.2% increase over last year.

Retailers across the U.S. are gearing up for one of the busiest shopping days of the year, offering deep discounts and exclusive deals, further driving up sales. Many major brands have extended their sales over multiple days, offering customers plenty of opportunities to snag deals well before Cyber Monday arrives.

Record-Breaking Retail Sales Expected

The 2024 holiday shopping season is shaping up to be one for the history books. U.S. retail sales are expected to hit a record-breaking $75 billion during the holiday season, signaling robust consumer demand despite concerns about inflation. Retailers are seeing more shoppers than ever turning to online platforms for their holiday purchases. With an expanding range of products—from electronics and beauty items to home goods and fashion—the e-commerce boom is set to continue throughout the season.

As shopping habits shift, more consumers are taking advantage of “buy now, pay later” services, which are becoming increasingly popular during the holiday season. This allows shoppers to break up the cost of their purchases, making it easier to take advantage of deep discounts without putting a strain on their wallets.

The Growing Dominance of E-Commerce

This year, e-commerce is expected to continue its dominance, with both retailers and shoppers embracing the convenience of online shopping. Consumers have become accustomed to shopping from the comfort of their homes, and major retailers are offering a seamless online experience to match. As a result, physical store traffic has been on the decline, with more shoppers opting for the ease and flexibility of online purchases, especially on days like Cyber Monday.

In addition to record-breaking spending, experts are also forecasting an increase in “experience-driven spending.” Shoppers are more likely to splurge on self-gifting this season, treating themselves to everything from tech gadgets to personal care items. Categories like electronics, fitness products, and beauty items are among the biggest winners in the race for holiday sales.

A Strong Economy Fuels Record Spending

Despite concerns over rising inflation and potential tariff increases, the U.S. economy remains resilient. Economic indicators suggest that consumer confidence is strong, with spending growth expected to continue into 2024. Even with the challenges posed by inflation, consumers are eager to take advantage of the holiday deals, ensuring that retailers see a record-breaking finish to the year.

The forecasted $75 billion in retail sales is a testament to the ongoing strength of the American consumer. As retailers continue to adapt to changing shopping behaviors, it’s clear that the future of retail is online, and Cyber Monday will continue to be a highlight of the shopping season.

Cyber Monday 2024 is shaping up to be a landmark event in the world of retail. With shoppers already breaking records, spending an impressive $10.8 billion online on Black Friday, and consumers forecasted to hit new highs this Monday, it’s clear that e-commerce is driving the retail boom. As U.S. retail sales soar toward a record-breaking $75 billion this holiday season, it’s evident that the future of shopping is digital, and Cyber Monday remains a key pillar in the ever-evolving landscape of online retail.

The beloved Disney classic Lilo & Stitch is making a grand return, but this time in a live-action adaptation that’s sure to capture the hearts of a whole new generation. After years of anticipation, Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch remake is set to invade cinemas on May 23, 2025, promising to bring a fresh twist to the story of a young girl and her mischievous alien friend.

A Long-Awaited Return

Originally released in 2002, Lilo & Stitch quickly became a fan favorite. The story of a young girl who lives with her sister and has trouble fitting in at school, and her unlikely friendship with Stitch, an alien designed for destruction, resonated with audiences for its warmth, humor, and universal themes of family and belonging. Now, Disney is ready to reintroduce this charming story in a live-action form, blending cutting-edge CGI with live-action performances.

Here’s everything we know about the return of the blue alien and his young friend:

The Road to Production

Disney confirmed the live-action remake in October 2018, and while fans eagerly awaited its release, production faced multiple delays. The film was initially set to begin filming in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic put those plans on hold. After a few more setbacks—including a fire on set and a halt in production due to the writers’ and actors’ strikes—the film finally wrapped production in early 2024. Now, after years of delays, Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch is set to debut in theaters on May 23, 2025.

A Familiar Cast with a New Twist

The remake will introduce some new faces, but fans will be excited to see several original voice actors return in new roles. Chris Sanders, the voice of Stitch and co-creator of the character, will reprise his role as the mischievous blue alien. Meanwhile, Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani in the animated film, will appear in a new role as Mrs. Kekoa, and Amy Hill will bring a new character, Tūtū, to life.

As for the new generation of cast members, Maia Kealoha will take on the iconic role of Lilo, the spirited young girl, while Sydney Elizabeth Agudong will play her older sister Nani. The role of David Kawena, Lilo’s friend and Nani’s love interest, was originally cast with Kahiau Machado but was recast with Kaipot Dudoit after past social media posts containing racial slurs surfaced.

Rounding out the ensemble, Zach Galifianakis will play Jumba, Billy Magnussen as Pleakley, and Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles.

Stitch in the Spotlight

While most of the film will feature live-action performances, Stitch, the alien star of the show, will be brought to life using CGI. This decision will help preserve the character’s playful and mischievous nature while blending seamlessly into the live-action world. Other characters like Jumba and Pleakley will be portrayed by live actors, creating a perfect blend of real-life performances and CGI magic.

A Story That Stands the Test of Time

At its core, the live-action Lilo & Stitch will remain faithful to the original film’s heartwarming storyline, focusing on the bond between Lilo, the young girl who lives with her sister and has trouble fitting in at school, and Stitch, the alien experiment designed to destroy. Their unlikely friendship not only brings joy to both characters but also teaches valuable lessons about love, family, and acceptance.

Fans can expect the same emotional moments and humor that made the original film a classic, while the live-action format promises to bring new depth to the story. The stunning Hawaiian backdrop and the timeless themes will undoubtedly resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers.

With a talented cast, a beloved storyline, and the magic of live-action and CGI, Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch remake is shaping up to be an exciting cinematic event. As we count down the days until the film’s release on May 23, 2025, it’s clear that the story of this young girl, who lives with her sister and has trouble fitting in at school, and her blue alien friend will continue to capture the hearts of audiences everywhere. Get ready for a nostalgic yet fresh take on a Disney classic—Lilo & Stitch is back, and it’s here to make a splash!

Maryann Fisher’s journey to landing the lead role in Happy Mother’s Day is a testament to the power of self-determination and passion. When the award-winning actress stumbled across the casting call online, she didn’t hesitate to submit her materials, knowing the opportunity aligned with her talent and drive. What followed was a whirlwind experience that not only brought her to the forefront of indie horror but also earned her the “Best Actress” award at the Southern Oasis Film Festival—a career-defining moment that began with a single proactive step.

Fisher’s portrayal of Samantha, a woman forced to fight for survival during a seemingly ordinary Mother’s Day that spirals into chaos, is both harrowing and deeply moving. The role pushed Fisher to tap into raw emotions, embracing Samantha’s fear and resilience as if they were her own. “Playing Samantha was a transformative experience that pushed me to new heights as an actress,” Fisher said. Her dedication to fully embodying the character paid off, as her performance became a standout element of the film, resonating with audiences and critics alike.

The recognition Fisher received for her work didn’t come easy. When she learned she had been nominated for Best Actress at the Southern Oasis Film Festival, she and her family braved a snowstorm to make the last-minute trip to Tennessee. Hearing her name announced as the winner was a surreal and affirming experience. “That moment was nothing short of magical—a whirlwind that reminded me why I love acting and storytelling,” she shared.

While Happy Mother’s Day has become a highlight of her career, it’s only part of Fisher’s inspiring journey. A passionate performer since the age of 12, she has built an impressive résumé that spans film, theater, television, and commercials, working with brands like Nickelodeon, The Kennedy Center, and Burger King. Her versatility as an artist extends to music, where her voice dazzles in genres ranging from pop and jazz to Broadway classics.

What makes Fisher’s success even more compelling is her proactive approach to her career. Rather than waiting for opportunities to come to her, she consistently seeks them out, as she did with Happy Mother’s Day. This self-starter mentality, combined with her talent and relentless work ethic, has opened doors and led to memorable roles that challenge and inspire her.

Off-screen, Fisher channels her energy into causes close to her heart, rescuing animals and fundraising for their welfare. She also treasures her unique hobbies, such as collecting vintage hats and B-17 memorabilia in honor of her late grandfather.

Maryann Fisher’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and the courage to take control of her destiny. Her journey with Happy Mother’s Day is a shining example of how seizing opportunities with passion and confidence can lead to unforgettable moments and remarkable achievements. For more information and updates, visit Maryann’s IMDb and find her on social media.

As Maryann continues to forge ahead in her career, she proves that the right mix of talent, determination, and self-belief can turn any audition into a life-changing experience.