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Sony Pictures TV/Amazon MGM Studios/ABC
Guest Sharks Lined Up for Season 18
MrBeast, Mindy Kaling, JJ Watt to Sit on the Panel
From the Futon Critic
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"Shark Tank" features the Sharks - tough, self-made, multimillionaire and billionaire tycoons - as they invest in America's best businesses and products.
This season's all-star lineup of guest Sharks includes:
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Jimmy Donaldson (aka MrBeast), creator of the YouTube channel MrBeast and founder of Beast Industries, and Jeffrey Housenbold, chief executive officer of Beast Industries
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Mindy Kaling, award-winning writer, producer, director, actor and author
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J.J. Watt, founder of the Justin J. Watt Foundation and former NFL defensive lineman
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Erin Foster and Sara Foster, co-founders of Favorite Daughter, producers and entrepreneurs
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Steven Bartlett, entrepreneur, investor, Dragon on "Dragons' Den" (the U.K. version of "Shark Tank") and host of "The Diary of a CEO," the second-largest podcast in the world
Additionally, Kendra Scott and Rashaun Williams have been elevated to permanent Sharks, joining Barbara Corcoran, Robert Herjavec, Lori Greiner, Daymond John, Daniel Lubetzky and Kevin O'Leary. · Season 18 of "Shark Tank" will air Wednesdays this fall on ABC and stream on Hulu. The premiere date will be announced at a later date.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
TV Insider
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
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posted 7/7/2026 |
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This Is Not a Repeat from 2009
Ian Ziering to Host "Great American Road Rally" for CW
From the Futon Critic |
The Great American Road Rally(TM), an all-new celebrity-driven television event hosted by Ian Ziering, will premiere this fall on The CW, airing Wednesdays at 9:00 PM ET/PT from September 2 through November 25, 2026.
Premiering during the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Route 66 and the 250th Anniversary of the United States, the series takes audiences on a high-energy journey across America's most iconic highway, combining adventure, competition, entertainment, community celebration, and philanthropy.
Produced by 7 Bridges Media Group (7BMG), The Great American Road Rally(TM) features celebrity participants from television, music, sports, comedy, and popular culture as they travel historic Route 66, visit legendary destinations, tackle unique challenges, share personal stories, and spotlight charitable organizations making a meaningful impact in communities across America.
At its core, the series is built around a simple idea: transforming competition into contribution.
Throughout the season, celebrity teams will represent and support ten charitable organizations serving families, children, veterans, first responders, community programs, and individuals in need. While the weekly road-trip adventures and celebrity challenges provide the entertainment, the larger mission is to elevate the organizations and people working every day to strengthen communities across the country.
Hosted by Ian Ziering, the series brings together recognizable personalities from television, music, sports, comedy, and popular culture whose careers span generations of American entertainment.
"The Great American Road Rally(TM) was created to celebrate the American spirit, the open road, the legacy of Route 66, and the power of entertainment to bring people together for something meaningful," says Ziering. "It's so much more than a road-trip series, it is a national celebration of community, generosity, American culture, and the charitable spirit that connects us all."
Each week, audiences will meet new celebrity participants, discover remarkable charitable organizations, and experience fresh challenges, destinations, and unforgettable moments, giving viewers new reasons to tune in throughout the entire season.
Unlike traditional competition programs, The Great American Road Rally(TM) is designed so that every cause benefits.
Viewers will also be invited to participate through community events, charitable initiatives, social engagement, public appearances, audience participation opportunities, and special announcements tied to the journey. Fans can follow the Rally from the earliest stages of production through the season finale with celebrity reveals, charity spotlights, behind-the-scenes content, filming updates, and community engagement opportunities released before and throughout the broadcast season.
Filming begins in August 2026, with production traveling from the Midwest to the Pacific Coast along historic Route 66 before culminating in a special season finale event during Thanksgiving week.
As America prepares to celebrate two historic milestones, the Route 66 Centennial and the nation's 250th Anniversary - The Great American Road Rally(TM) aims to deliver a shared national television experience rooted in adventure, nostalgia, entertainment, generosity, and the enduring spirit of the open road.
Additional celebrity participants, charitable partners, production updates, community events, sponsorship opportunities, and public engagement initiatives will be announced throughout the summer as the Rally begins its journey toward its September premiere.
For production updates, filming locations, celebrity announcements, charitable initiatives, sponsorship opportunities, and public participation information, visit: www.americanroadrally.com
The Futon Critic
Vital Thrills
PR Newswire
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posted 7/7/2026 |
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Facebook
LOUISE LASSER: 1939-2026
"Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman" Actress Played Games
From Deadline |
Louise Lasser, whose pig-tailed braids, bangs and baby-doll gingham dresses took the nation by storm when they became her trademark look on Norman Lear‘s Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman in the 1970s, died Monday at her home in Manhattan. She was 87.
Her death was reported by her friend Susan Charlotte to The New York Times.
Initially making her name in early Woody Allen films — the two married in 1966 and divorced four years later — Lasser employed a droll, deadpan comic delivery to great effect not only in Allen’s Take the Money and Run, Bananas and Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex (But Were Afraid to Ask) but in buzzy commercials for Comet, Excedrin and NyQuil (in the latter, she played a helpful wife to a sick and grateful husband: “I’m lucky to have you, Mildred,” the stuffed-up man says, to which Lasser’s benevolent and placid Mildred replies, “I know.”)
Early in her career she even briefly appeared on Broadway in 1962 as Barbra Streisand’s replacement in the musical I Can Get It for You Wholesale. But it wasn’t until January 1976 that Lasser shot to international stardom as the title character in Lear’s wildly offbeat soap opera parody Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.
As envisioned by Lear, Hartman was not only a soap parody but an actual soap, televised in syndication five days a week in half-hour installments. It aired in some markets during traditional daytime soap time slots and in others at 11 p.m. Both time periods were telling: The deadpan comedy and satirical bent was fitting in the post-primetime slots, while the faux melodrama of a working-class family in small-town Ohio (the fictional Fernwood) made for a clever addition to the afternoon sturm und drang that filled network hours.
While Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman lasted only until July 1977, the daily schedule meant that the cast churned out 325 episodes, a wearying tally especially for Lasser, who was the series’ constant throughout all the various storylines. In a season-ending episode that seemed all too real, her character suffered a nervous breakdown on national television, a heartbreaking scene that Lasser seemed to play all too well.
In game shows, Lasser appeared on episodes of Talent Scouts and Showoffs.
Following her breakout success on Hartman, Lasser continued working but never in anything nearly as high-profile as her signature role. In 1980 she made the first of three appearances in the hit comedy Taxi as Phyllis, the ex-wife of Judd Hirsch’s Alex Reiger, and that same year had an uncredited cameo in Allen’s Stardust Memories. Subsequent credits included Todd Solondz’s Happiness (1998) and Darren Aronofsky’s Requiem for a Dream (2000) as well as TV shows including St. Elsewhere and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.
A noted New York acting teacher, Lasser more recently was featured in three episodes of Lena Dunham’s HBO comedy Girls, playing, appropriately enough, a mostly forgotten artist who was newly revered by a younger generation.
Lasser is survived by her longtime partner, Michael Citriniti.
Deadline
TV Line
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
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posted 7/7/2026 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "This Is Your Job Opening" |
- Jeopardy! is looking for a clue-writer. Six figure salary offered! (New York Post)
- Peter Weber slams former "Bachelor" producer on detailing their situationship in a new tell-all (Reality TV World)
- Nick Viall, Natalie Joy welcome twins! (People)
- Love Island's Gabriel Garland speaks now about the stabbing case that cost him his place (Deadline)
- Katie Thurston is no tortured poet, turning "pain into purpose" (Reality TV World)
- Tiffany Ervin returns home and has a reputation for being used to not eating (People)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Hannah Brown (Reality TV World)
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posted 7/6/2023 |
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Reuters
Sky to Acquire ITV's Broadcast/Streaming Assets
Comcast to Own Combined Company
From Deadline
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Sky has finally sealed a £1.6 billion ($2.1 billion) deal to acquire ITV‘s television network operations.
ITV confirmed to shareholders on Monday morning that it will sell to its pay-TV rival, meaning a crown jewel of British broadcasting becomes part of the NBCUniversal entertainment empire.
As part of the deal, Reuters confirmed previous reporting that The Great British Bake Off producer Love Productions will be sold to ITV Studios.
The deal is for ITV’s Media & Entertainment arm, not its Studios production and distribution division, and it first emerged late last year.
In May, ITV followed up by saying it remained in “active discussions” with Sky. Reuters said it is now being finalized by lawyers and an announcement could be made in the next couple of weeks.
ITV Studios, which makes the likes of Love Island and Squid Game: The Challenge, will remain separate and will add Love Productions to its stable, a huge boon given the Great British Bake Off IP. Sky, a division of Comcast, bought 70% of Love in 2014 and the remainder in 2020. Founder Richard McKerrow exited last year.
ITV CEO Carolyn McCall was quick to speak up its indie production prospects and global scale on a call with analysts and journalists today amid persistent rumors over its future. With rivals such as Banijay and All3Media merging and the tech and streaming giants getting larger, market chatter has persisted that ITV Studios would need to merge with a rival such as Fremantle or could become another takeover target to gain scale.
“We are confident that ITV Studios will continue to succeed,” McCall said. “It has been a real success story in the past eight years. It has grown about 45% and it has the best shows in every genre.”
Chris Kennedy, ITV’s Chief Operating Officer and Chief Finance Officer, added: “ITV Studios already has the scale to compete in the global market. It is one of the largest independent producers in the world, and more than half the revenue comes from outside the UK.”
He pointed to “a very successful strategy of bolt-on acquisitions” and claimed the company would have “sufficient cash to continue” in that vein. “We don’t see the need for a transformational acquisition of anything like this scale,” he added.
Deadline
The Wrap
Variety
Broadcast
Realscreen
Deadline
Variety
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
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posted 7/6/2026 |
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"Naked and Afraid" Gets Shipwrecked
Catch It on Discovery August 2
From TV Zone |
In a high-stakes twist on the franchise, 12 Naked and Afraid all-stars are dropped into open water in the dark of night, finding themselves unexpectedly abandoned and fighting to survive in the all-new series NAKED AND AFRAID: SHIPWRECKED, premiering Sunday, August 2 at 8PM ET/PT on Discovery Channel.
Under the impression that they are entering a standard 35-day group challenge at dawn, the survivalists instead begin their insertion adrift at sea overnight. With emergency flares shooting overhead, the survivalists must grab whatever limited resources they can before making their way ashore.
Divided into four groups of three, the survivalists are stranded on a mysterious and isolated island on the lost coast of the Philippines, often described as the "Bermuda Triangle of Southeast Asia," due to its history of past shipwrecks and unexplained disappearances. The terrain offers both opportunities and risk, with a dense, resource-rich jungle that contains the remnants of those who came before. Teams work together to build shelters and tools from the wreckage, including a 300-foot primitive water aqueduct. In the surrounding seas, survivalists must contend with tiger and hammerhead sharks, stingrays, sea snakes and box jellyfish whose venom contains one of the ocean's most lethal toxins.
Far removed from civilization and with no food, no fresh water and no clothing, the survivalists must adapt quickly, relying not only on their individual skills but also on their ability to innovate and salvage whatever they can from the environment. With each team receiving only one piece of the challenge map, they must track down the others and combine pieces to rescue themselves from the island on Day 35.
The battle-tested survivalists that will be lost at sea include:
· Adam Kavanaugh - 61 Days Survived
· Ally Frueh - 21 Days Survived
· Ana Lis Pitter - 21 Days Survived
· Dani Beauchemin - 114 Days Survived
· Darrin Reay - 115 Days Survived
· Jamie Frizzell - 55 Days Survived
· Jarrell Banks - 21 Days Survived
· Jonny Yates - 21 Days Survived
· Malu Beyonce - 17 Days Survived
· Mandy Bublitz - 35 Days Survived
· Patrick French - 110 Days Survived
· Shawn Bretschneider - 21 Days Survived
In addition to watching NAKED AND AFRAID: SHIPWRECKED on Discovery Channel, viewers can join the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #NakedAndAfraid and following Naked and Afraid on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
NAKED AND AFRAID: SHIPWRECKED is produced for Discovery Channel by Lionsgate Alternative Television.
The Futon Critic
TV Insider
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posted 7/6/2026 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "The Life of a Showgirl's Newlywed" |
- Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift are evermore lovers (Variety)
- Taylor Frankie Paul needs to pass a drug test before spending more midnights with the kids (Reality Tea)
- Julie Chen Moonves recalls seeing red after being "kidnapped" last year (Entertainment Weekly)
- Love Island's Gabriel Garland speaks now about the stabbing case that cost him his place (Deadline)
- Katie Thurston is no tortured poet, turning "pain into purpose" (Reality TV World)
- Tiffany Ervin returns home and has a reputation for being used to not eating (People)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Hannah Brown (Reality TV World)
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posted 7/6/2023 |
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Getty Images
VICTOR WILLIS: 1951-2026
Village People's "Cop" Played "To Tell the Truth"
From the AP |
Victor Willis, who co-founded the Village People, co-wrote the disco group’s classic hits “Y.M.C.A.,” ″Macho Man” and “In the Navy,” and delighted crowds while dressed as the band’s helmeted and mustachioed police officer, has died. He was 74.
“We are profoundly sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People,” tand his wife Karen Huff-Willis he group posted on its official Facebook page. The cause was identified as “a short but aggressive illness.”
Willis was a musician-actor who, among other things, had appeared on Broadway in “The Wiz” when he decided to cash in on the disco craze in 1977 by joining a group made up of beefy, macho-looking guys dressed as a biker, a construction worker, a cop, a cowboy and a Native American chief.
With producer Jacques Morali and Henri Belolo, Morali’s business partner, Willis founded the six-member Village People. The idea came to them while partying at an after-hours gay nightclub in the West Village of Manhattan. The group’s self-titled debut album was released in 1977.
In 1978, the group released two albums, “Macho Man” and “Cruisin’” — which featured the international hit “Y.M.C.A.,” a song that peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard chart. A year later, Village People released the album “Go West,” which included “In the Navy,” a song that peaked at No. 3 on the chart. “Macho Man” peaked at No. 25 in 1978.
In game shows, Willis featured on an episode of "To Tell the Truth" in 2016.
An earlier marriage to actress Phylicia Rashad, who appeared with him in “The Wiz” and later starred as Clair Huxtable on “The Cosby Show,” ended in divorce. Complete information on survivors was not immediately available.
AP
The Washington Post
The New York Times
CNN
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posted 7/2/2026 |
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Mondays Get Quizzy
BBC2 Brings Back Summer Game Show Tradition
From Telly Mix |
QUIZZY MONDAYS ARE BACK!
Monday nights are about to get a lot more competitive as one of the BBC's most popular traditions returns for another summer of brain-teasing television.
Quizzy Mondays are back from 13 July, with brand-new series of Mastermind, Only Connect and University Challenge once again taking over BBC Two for an evening packed with questions, puzzles and plenty of tense moments.
The night begins at 7.30pm with Mastermind, where a new group of contestants will put their specialist subjects and general knowledge to the test in the famous black chair.
At 8pm, Only Connect returns with more fiendishly difficult connections and missing vowels before University Challenge rounds off the evening at 8.30pm as another set of universities battle it out for quiz supremacy.
Facebook @TellyMix
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posted 7/2/2026 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Light Up the World" |
- James O'Halloran. Model. Actor. Guitarist? (TV Insider)
- Taylor Frankie Paul scores a win at trial (Reality Tea)
- John Cochran wants to see Jeff Probst "really degrade himself" on Survivor (Entertainment Weekly)
- A Bachelor producer was almost "The Bachelorette" (Entertainment Weekly)
- Travis Kelce is literally one day away from making an honest woman out of Taylor Swift (Rolling Stone)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Ciara Miller (The Wrap)
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posted 7/2/2023 |
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Netflix Studios
More on "The Golden Ticket"
Netflix Clones Gene Wilder's Voice
From the Futon Critic
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In celebration of the 55th anniversary of the beloved 1971 classic Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Netflix today announced that Wonka's The Golden Ticket will premiere globally on September 23, inviting audiences into a thrilling new competition based on Roald Dahl's book Charlie & the Chocolate Factory and inspired by one of the most iconic worlds in cinematic history.
Twelve lucky Golden Ticket winners, each with a partner of their choosing, will step through the gates of Wonka's Chocolate Factory and into a world of pure imagination, delicious mischief, and unexpected challenges. Once inside, contestants must navigate a series of Wonka's games, tests, and temptations designed to challenge them physically, mentally, and morally. In this high-stakes social experiment, players will journey through the factory's wondrous and unpredictable landscape, adapting, strategizing, and withstanding the unknown while proving they have the instincts, resilience, and character to thrive in chaos. In the end, only one contestant will have what it takes to earn Wonka's life-changing prize.
Adding to the nostalgia, Wonka's The Golden Ticket will feature the recreated voice of Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka, honoring the legendary performance that has enchanted generations of audiences. The voice of Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka has been recreated with the consent of Mr. Wilder's estate. The series will also welcome back Rusty Goffe, who appeared in the original 1971 film, reprising his role as an Oompa Loompa.
"More than five decades after Gene brought Willy Wonka to life, people of all ages and backgrounds around the world continue to find joy, laughter and inspiration in his performance," said Karen B. Wilder, Gene Wilder's wife, on behalf of the Gene Wilder Estate. "Gene had a remarkable ability to bring humor, wonder and heart into people's lives, and that connection has endured for generations. We are delighted that Wonka's The Golden Ticket celebrates the warmth and imagination that he brought to the role, introducing that magic to a new generation while honoring the fans who have cherished it for decades."
In collaboration with the Roald Dahl Story Company, which Netflix acquired in 2021, and the Gene Wilder Estate, Wonka's The Golden Ticket pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Dahl's beloved book and Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory while reimagining its world for a new era of audiences.
Wonka's The Golden Ticket will premiere on Netflix September 23, with a two-part finale on September 30.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
The Wrap
Variety
TV Line
The Hollywood Reporter
Gizmodo
Consequence of Sound
Vulture
AV Club
Unilad
Reality Blurred
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posted 7/1/2026 |
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Canada Heads to Eurovision
Country to Compete from 2027
From the Hollywood Reporter |
Canada will compete in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest in Bulgaria, the CBC/Radio Canada and the European Broadcasting Union announced on Wednesday.
The move follows the European Broadcasting Union, the Eurovision organizer, earlier announcing Canada’s full membership after a vote held at its 96th General Assembly in Prague. CBC/Radio-Canada, the country’s public broadcaster, had been an associate member of the EBU since 1950, and as a full member gains entry into the Eurovision competition and other EBU initiatives.
Canadian artists have performed on the Eurovision stage for other member countries before, including superstar Celine Dion in 1988 winning the singing contest while competing for Switzerland in Dublin.
The Hollywood Reporter
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posted 6/30/2026 |
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E! News
PAUL FLACK: 1971-2026
Brother of "Love Island" Host Caroline Flack
From People |
The brother of Love Island U.K. host Caroline Flack has died six years after her death by suicide. He was 55.
Paul Flack was found unresponsive at his home in Norwich, England, on Sunday, June 21, and he later died in the hospital, outlets including the Daily Mail, The Independent and local newspaper the Eastern Daily Press reported.
According to a provisional post-mortem, he is also believed to have died by suicide.
A hearing into his death was opened on Monday, June 29, Norfolk Coroner's Court confirmed to PEOPLE, with another scheduled for October 23.
Paul, who worked as a graphic designer, is survived by his partner and two children.
Paul's last Instagram post was a tribute to his sister. Sharing a childhood photo of Caroline in August 2020, six months after her death, he wrote in the caption, "This will be my last post here. May those who know feel shame for eternity. Love you Caroline."
Caroline took her own life at the age of 40 on February 15 2020. Picture date: Friday September 27, 2024. Caroline, who hosted Love Island U.K. from 2015 to 2019, died aged 40 on Feb. 15, 2020.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use problems, or just needs to talk, call or text 988, chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7, or visit SpeakingofSuicide.com/resources for additional resources.
People
TMZ
Entertainment Weekly
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posted 7/1/2026 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Don't Poke the Bears" |
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posted 7/1/2023 |
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NBCUniversal
Comcast to Spin-Off NBCUniversal
Tech Brands, Broadcast Assets to Separate
From the Futon Critic
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Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) today announced its intention to separate into two independent publicly traded companies through a tax-free spin-off of NBCUniversal and Sky. Upon completion of the transaction, Comcast shareholders will own shares in both Comcast and NBCUniversal, creating two focused industry leaders, each with significant scale, strong financial profiles and distinct strategic opportunities.
The proposed separation reflects Comcast's track record of positioning its businesses to compete and win in rapidly changing markets. As technological innovation, consumer behavior and competitive dynamics continue to reshape both media and communications, Comcast's Board and management team believe each company will be better positioned to pursue its own strategic priorities, invest for growth and create long-term shareholder value as independent entities.
Brian L. Roberts will continue to be actively involved in the leadership of Comcast and NBCUniversal, working in partnership with the CEOs of both companies. Mike Cavanagh will be the Chief Executive Officer of NBCUniversal and Comcast's former Chief Financial Officer Michael Angelakis will become the Chief Executive Officer of Comcast, following completion of the separation and in the interim will join as a Strategic Advisor.
Comcast is a leading technology company serving residential and business customers through its broadband, wireless and entertainment platforms. Comcast will focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences backed by the nation's largest converged network, reaching more than 65 million homes and businesses, its intelligent fiber network architecture and global technology platforms. With one of the nation's fastest-growing wireless businesses, the industry's leading business services platform and substantial free cash flow generation, Comcast is well-positioned for long-term growth.
NBCUniversal is a premier global media and entertainment company, anchored by its growing theme parks division, Universal film and television studios, NBC and Telemundo networks, Peacock, and Bravo. In addition, NBCUniversal's global portfolio will include Sky, our European media business. Together, these businesses will be powered by a portfolio of world-class intellectual property, a deep content library, extraordinary content creation capabilities, and exceptional strength across sports, news and entertainment. With iconic brands, valuable intellectual property, global distribution and leading creative talent, NBCUniversal will be strongly positioned to compete and grow in an evolving media landscape.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Deadline
Variety
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
Awful Announcing
The Wrap
Wall Street Journal
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posted 6/30/2026 |
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ITV/Sony Pictures TV
Jeremy Clarkson Will Return to "Millionaire"
Host to Return to Chair After Cancer Treatment
From Variety
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Jeremy Clarkson is set to return for more episodes of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” and spinoff “Millionaire Hot Seat” following news he is in remission from cancer.
U.K. network ITV has ordered 15 episodes of the flagship quiz show as well as 20 episodes of the “Hot Seat” spin-off, which launched in January this year and is also hosted by Clarkson. The high-pressure game is given an added twist by requiring contestants to answer questions quickly in a fast-moving queue system or risk being replaced.
Both “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” and “Millionaire Hot Seat” are produced by Sony Pictures Television-backed Stellify Media for ITV and its streaming platform ITVX, commissioned by ITV’s Katie Rawcliffe, Kevin O’Brien and David Smyth. Kerri Reid exec produces for Stellify.
“The ‘Millionaire’ brand continues to deliver for ITV audiences and ‘Millionaire Hot Seat’ has brought an exciting new energy to the format,” Rawcliffe said in a statement. “The combination of Jeremy Clarkson’s hosting and the high-pressure gameplay has proved a winning formula, so we’re delighted to be bringing both ‘Millionaire Hot Seat’ and ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?’ back for more episodes.”
Clarkson will shoot both shows later this year. The journalist turned television personality recently revealed on the latest season of his Prime Video series “Clarkson’s Farm” that he had been diagnosed with an “aggressive” form of prostate cancer. In a Sunday Times interview last week following the revelation he updated fans that he was now in remission following surgery, calling himself “officially the world’s luckiest man.”
Variety
Manchester Evening News
HOLR Magazine
Wales Online
LBC
Senal News
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posted 6/30/2026 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "What Is It with Love Island Attracting Walking Talking Red Flags?" |
- Love Island UK's Gabriel Garland pulled due to a link for stabbing (The Hollywood Reporter)
- LeBron James is leaving his Wall in LA, but he's going to test the free agent market (The Hollywood Reporter)
- Zack "Steel" George just welcomed a little gladiator of his own (Female First)
- Katrina Grant joins Expectation (C21 Media)
- Becca Scott welcomes her own game changer - Gabriel Christopher Kerns (Suggest)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Alzo Slade (WBEZ Chicago) and Kodi Lee (TV Insider)
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posted 6/30/2023 |
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Running Man (No, Not That One) Comes to the US
Korean Game of Tag Deals with Hellcat
From Deadline |
Running Man, a long-running Korean variety series, is eyeing a run in the U.S. The series, which is ostensibly a weekly game of tag, comes from Korean broadcaster SBS, which is working with Pippa Lambert’s Hellcat on a U.S. adaptation.
The show launched in Korea in 2010 and with over 700 episodes, is a staple of SBS’ weekend schedule. It has been described as a mix between Traitors and Taskmaster.
It is a “high-concept celebrity urban chase show that has evolved into a character-driven competition series blending celebrity guests, large-scale missions, strategic mind games, and serialized comedic rivalries”, per the logline.
Hellcat, founded by former ICM and WME agent Lambert in 2020, has just started conversations with networks and streamers over the remake. It marks the latest international format for the company, which is adapting Australian canine reality series Muster Dogs, for Wonder Project.
Deadline
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posted 6/29/2026 |
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M6 Drops More "Money"
Olivier Minne to Host Reboot of "Money Drop"
From Entrevue |
The game show Money Drop is officially coming back to French television.
The M6 network announced that it’s reviving the series, which was long associated with TF1 and host Laurence Boccolini.
The reboot is set to premiere next season in M6’s early‑evening lineup, positioned as a lead‑in to primetime. M6 plans to air new episodes daily, alternating the show with The Best Bakery, another staple of its early‑evening schedule.
For the relaunch, M6 has tapped Olivier Minne to host the new version. It’s a significant move for the network, which has been steadily positioning Minne as one of its marquee game‑show personalities. He recently fronted the revival of Weakest Link, a format also previously hosted in France by Laurence Boccolini.
With Money Drop, Minne now inherits a second franchise closely tied to Boccolini. M6 is betting that a fresh face can reinvigorate a familiar brand while keeping the core gameplay that made the show a hit in the first place.
Entrevue
Voici
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posted 6/29/2026 |
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ITV America
"Love Island" Drops a Bombshell
Alannah Keyser Dumped After Resurfaced Racist Posts
From Variety
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Former “Love Island USA” star Alannah Keyser issued an apology to TikTok on Saturday after being kicked off the Peacock reality show for using the n-word in a resurfaced video.
The video shows Keyser rapping along to Roddy Ricch’s 2019 track “The Box” and singing the lyrics with the n-word.
“I’m coming on here to address some things that have been circulating online,” Keyser said. “I do want to begin by addressing the video of me singing along to a Roddy Ricch song that contains a racial slur. I’m sorry to whoever has seen that video and has been offended by it, that was never my intention. The video is from six years ago, and that word is just not in my vocabulary anymore.”
She added, “I do want to say directly that I do not support racism or discrimination of any kind, and I never have. When I first found out that these things were going around online, it really broke my heart, and I couldn’t do anything about it. But this has definitely been a learning lesson for me, and it sucks that I didn’t get a chance to really show my personality and who I am.”
Keyser is the second “Love Island USA” Season 8 contestant to get the boot for saying the n-word. In late May, Vasana Montgomery was fired in the days leading up to the Season 8 premiere after two videos of her using the slur went viral. In last year’s Season 7, two contestants, Yulissa Escobar and Cierra Ortega, were also caught using racial slurs and had to exit the Villa.
The Futon Critic
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
The Wrap
The Wrap
Deadline
TV Insider
People
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Reality TV World
The Hollywood Reporter
The Hollywood Reporter
The Wrap
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Deadline
The Wrap
Deadline
The Wrap
The Futon Critic
Cosmopolitan
USA Today
Deadline
The Wrap
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
Deadline
Deadline
TV Line
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The Hollywood Reporter
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Reality Blurred
Reality Tea
Variety
The Wrap
The Hollywood Reporter
Entertainment Weekly
Reality Tea
Reality TV World
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posted 6/29/2026 |
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Casa Amor UK
Meet the New Bombshells
From Deadline |
ITV2’s Love Island UK is heating up as the Casa Amor boys and girls enter the villa to shake things up.
The dating series hosted by Maya Jama is introducing 12 new bombshells — 6 girls and 6 boys — to test the couples’ connections as they continue their love journey.
Some relationships might end completely, and some Islanders might find a stronger connection with one of the new Islanders as they continue grafting.
The 12 new Islanders entering Casa Amor are: Charleen (25, Dublin), Mara (25, Luton), Martha (25, London), Olivia (23, Doncaster), Nevaeh (22, Gloucester), Julia (26, London), Tommy (23, Essex), Gabriel (24, London), Jordon (28, Surrey), Will (23, Barnsley), Carlos (22, New Forest), and Aaron (26, East London).
The Love Island UK Season 13 Casa Amor twist starts on Sunday, June 28 at 9 p.m. BST on ITV2 and stream on ITVX. For U.S. viewers, the episode will start streaming on Hulu on Tuesday, June 30.
Love Island is produced by Lifted Entertainment, part of ITV Studios, and WPP Media Motion Entertainment.
Deadline
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posted 6/29/2026 |
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Getty Images
PENELOPE KEITH: 1940-2026
"To the Manor Born" Icon Played Games
From Deadline |
Dame Penelope Keith, the BAFTA-winning British actress best known for the BBC comedy The Good Life, has died. She was 86.
In a statement sent to British media, Keith’s family said: “We are deeply saddened to announce that Dame Penelope Keith died peacefully whilst living with cancer at her home in Surrey where she had lived for more than 50 years.
“The family is grateful for the care and support she received throughout her treatments, and ask that their privacy be respected at this time.”
Keith was born Penelope Anne Constance Hatfield on April 2, 1940. She joined the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1963 and secured her first major screen credit in The Army Game, the ITV comedy that aired between 1957 and 1961.
Keith progressed to roles in Carry on Doctor, The Avengers, and Private Lives before she was cast in The Good Life in 1975.
The Good Life is woven into the fabric of British comedy and featured Keith as Margo Leadbetter, a straight-laced neighbour to Richard Briers and Felicity Kendal’s Tom and Barbara Good, who escape the rat race to live a self-sufficient lifestyle in suburbia.
Keith won her first BAFTA for The Good Life in 1977. A year later, she doubled her tally of bronze masks, winning for her work in The Norman Conquests: Living Together, a television play written by Alan Ayckbourn.
She was also BAFTA-nominated for To the Manor Born, the BBC comedy. One of her final screen credits was Death Comes to Pemberley, the 2013 limited series based on PD James’s homage to Pride and Prejudice, co-starring Matthew Rhys.
In game shows, Keith was featured on episodes of Call My Bluff, Going for a Song, and the British version of What's My Line?.
Jon Petrie, director of BBC comedy, said: “All of us at BBC Comedy are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dame Penelope Keith. She was one of the defining figures of British television comedy. Her iconic performance as Margo in The Good Life remains one of the nation’s most beloved sitcom roles and continues to delight audiences today. We send our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and all of those who had the privilege of working with her.”
Deadline
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
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posted 6/29/2026 |
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"Drag Race" Heads to Mexico for Worldwide Competition
Latina Royale to Play on WOW Present Plus July 30
From Deadline |
WOW Presents Plus has unveiled the cast for the inaugural season of Drag Race México: Latina Royale, which is set to premiere globally on July 30.
The drag race competition, completely in Spanish, is set to be hosted by Lolita Banana and Taiga Brava and feature fan-favorite queens from Drag Race México and franchises around the world.
Queens from the U.S., Brasil, Spain, Germany, and Holland will be featured in the competition celebrating Latin pride.
The 11 queens competing in Drag Race México: Latina Royale are:
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Alexis Mateo (RuPaul’s Drag Race US)
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Barbie Q (Drag Race Germany)
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DesiRée Beck (Drag Race Brasil)
- Elektra Vandergeld (Drag Race México)
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Eva Blunt (Drag Race México)
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Horacio Potasio (Drag Race México)
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Mariana Stars (Drag Race España)
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Matraka – México (Drag Race México)
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Miss Abby OMG (Drag Race Holland)
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Regina Voce (Drag Race México)
- Xunami Muse (RuPaul’s Drag Race US).
The first two seasons of Drag Race México are available worldwide exclusively through World of Wonder’s WOW Presents Plus streaming platform. WOW Presents Plus is the exclusive and global home of the Drag Race franchise.
Executive Producers of the show for World of Wonder are Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, Tom Campbell, and RuPaul Charles.
Deadline
TV Insider
Reality Tea
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posted 6/26/2026 |
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Breaking Up the "Band"
Netflix Cancels Talent Competition After One Season
From Deadline |
Building the Band is hanging up its microphone.
Netflix‘s music competition series, which was best known for filming with Liam Payne shortly before his untimely death, has been canceled after just one season.
Netflix declined to comment, but a source confirmed the cancellation, which was first reported by The Sun newspaper in the UK.
Produced by Remarkable Entertainment, Building the Band brought together 50 singers to compete for a chance to form their own band without seeing each other.
Former One Direction singer Payne served as a mentor alongside Pussycat Dolls’ Nicole Scherzinger and Kelly Rowland, who was part of Destiny’s Child. Backstreet Boys’ AJ McLean was on hosting duties.
The series culminated in three live shows that were filmed in late August 2024 in front of an audience in Manchester. Two months later, Payne died after falling from a hotel balcony in Argentina. The Netflix show was dedicated to his memory.
After premiering last July, Building the Band‘s finalists, 3quency, SZN4, Soulidified, and Midnight Til Morning, have all released original music and toured.
Deadline
TV Insider
Reality Tea
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posted 6/26/2026 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "Someone's in the Kitchen with Ryan" |
- Ryan Seacrest spent National Foodie Day soft-launching a new relationship. I cooked ribs for the first time, but whatever, bro, you do you (TV Insider)
- Utica missed the cut for "Drag Race All-Stars" because of, of all things, Project Runway (Entertainment Weekly)
- What's Megan thee Stallion doing on "Love Island"? (Yahoo!/Buzzfeed)
- Mike Golic Sr. & Mike "Mikey" Golic Jr.to return to ESPN Radio (Radio Insight)
- Taylor Frankie Paul has the cops called on her again (TMZ)
- Kristen Kish compares "Top Chef" to "The Traitors" (The Hollywood Reporter)
- Survivor's Joe Hunter was cast on Tyler Perry show thanks to... the Tooth Fairy? (Entertainment Weekly)
- Drag Race star Jade Sotomayor hospitalized in critical condition after fatal car crash (Entertainment Weekly)
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posted 6/22/2023 |
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Instagram @Jeopardamy
BETTY JO SCHNEIDER: c.1943-2026
Mother of "Jeopardy!" Master Amy Schneider
From the Sun |
Amy Schneider has shared that her mother Betty Jo has sadly passed away.
The Jeopardy! star took to Instagram to announce the news through a touching tribute post.
Amy posted a single photo of her mother smiling widely at the camera while sitting at a table.
In the post’s caption a heartbroken Amy penned: “It is with a heavy heart that I announce that my mother, Betty Jo Schneider, has passed away at the age of 83.
“My mom was a smart, stubborn, compassionate woman, who loved to learn, and to teach.
“I wouldn’t be who I am without her inspiration, encouragement, and support.
“I’m not ready for her to be gone, but her last days were spent peacefully with her family, and she feels no more pain. I love you, Mom. RIP.”
Amy appeared on Jeopardy! from November 2021 to January 2022. She became the show’s first transgender contestant to qualify for the Tournament of Champions. She was also the second-longest-running player in the history of the regular format of the show.
The Sun
People
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posted 6/26/2026 |
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BBCSLA/ABC
HAROLD WHEELER: 1943-2026
Original "Dancing with the Stars" Bandleader
From the Hollywood Reporter |
Harold Wheeler, the veteran orchestrator on Broadway and longtime musical director for ABC’s Dancing With the Stars, has died. He was 83.
Wheeler died Wednesday from an unspecified cause of death at his home in Los Angeles, Tony Award-winning producer Lamar Richardson told The Hollywood Reporter.
Wheeler began as a musical director on Broadway in 1968 when, at only 25, he was picked by Burt Bacharach to orchestrate Promises, Promises. His work as an orchestrator, music director, conductor and arranger spanned half a century on Broadway and included work on Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations.
Broadway musical premieres in which he was involved include Two Gentlemen of Verona, The Wiz, Lena Horne: The Lady and Her Music, Dreamgirls, Little Me, The Tap Dance Kid, Carrie, The Life, Side Show, The Full Monty, Hairspray, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Hugh Jackman: Back on Broadway.
In addition to his Broadway work, Wheeler has arranged and produced music for such artists as Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Nina Simone, B.B. King, Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross, Ray Charles, Kathleen Battle, Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Joe Cocker, Dizzy Gillespie and Gloria Gaynor.
In 2019, Wheeler received a special Tony Award for lifetime achievement. “I was going to thank every castmember for every show I’ve every been in, until I realized I’ve done 30 Broadway shows,” he said onstage when accepting his trophy.
In a 2010 interview by the New York Post, Wheeler recalled a quick cancellation in Boston for Lennon, a 2005 Broadway-bound musical he arranged, allowed him to say yes to joining Dancing With the Stars.
“It was during that six-week cancellation that I got a call to work on [the] show. Had Boston not been cancelled, I would have said, ‘Sorry, not available’ and we wouldn’t be having this discussion. They shot the pilot for Dancing during the exact same six weeks we would have been in Boston. So it was meant to be,” Wheeler recalled.
Wheeler and his live backing band and singers in 2014 were fired by ABC, to be replaced by recorded music and a smaller band. The Harold Wheeler Orchestra and Singers consisted of 28 members and had been with the show for 17 seasons.
Wheeler also played piano for Bruce Springsteen on “Blinded by the Light” and “Spirit in the Night” on the 1973 album Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J. His other awards include the Drama Desk Award for outstanding orchestrations for Hairspray in 2003, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the NAACP Theatre Awards in 2008, seven Tony noms and six Drama Desk noms.
William Harold Wheeler Jr. was born in St. Louis on July 14, 1943. Starting at age 5, he played piano at Antioch Baptist Church, where the members included Chuck Berry and Ike and Tina Turner. He attended Turner Branch Elementary School, Sumner High School and Howard University before earning his master’s degree in music from the Manhattan School of Music in 1968. From 1968-71, he worked as an assistant program director for CBS-FM in New York.
It was at Howard that Wheeler met his wife, Hattie Winston, an original member of the groundbreaking Negro Ensemble Company also known for her work on Becker, The Electric Company and Rugrats. They met when Wheeler was her student substitute music teacher. They teamed up for the 1971-73 Broadway production of Two Gentlemen of Verona before agreeing to marry.
In addition to his wife, Wheeler is survived by his daughters, Marian and Samantha, and his grandchildren.
The Hollywood Reporter
Playbill
Deadline
TV Insider
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posted 6/25/2026 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "How to Win Big Brother... from a Big Brother Winner" |
- Taylor Hale debunks sequester rumors (TV Insider)
- James Patterson teams with MrBeast to write a new thriller (Polygon)
- Kylee Russell, Aven Jones are over for real this time (Reality TV World)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with TPIR EP John Quinn (TV Insider)
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posted 6/25/2023 |
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Hulu/Disney
... Okay, Was That Enough Time?
ABC Reportedly Plans to Air Taylor Frankie Paul's "Bachelorette" Season
From Mediaite
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ABC reportedly plans to air the latest season of The Bachelorette after the initial premiere was derailed due to the controversy around Taylor Frankie Paul.
Paul, who rose to fame on the reality TV show The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, was set to star on the new season of the long-running dating show.
In March, TMZ released a video of a violent dispute involving Paul and her partner, Dakota Mortensen. In the video — which was recorded by Mortensen — Paul could be seen repeatedly hitting him and even throwing chairs at him. As this was going on, Paul’s daughter was in the room watching it all unfold.
Hours after the video came to light, Disney announced it would not air the upcoming season.
Three months later, however, the company seemed to have changed course. A Wednesday report from TMZ read:
“The Bachelorette” season starring Taylor Frankie Paul is almost out of Hollywood jail … and there’s an excellent chance it’ll air on ABC next month … TMZ has learned. Production sources tell TMZ … the current discussion behind the scenes is for the season to premiere in mid-July — though final plans are not yet locked.
According to the report, the show’s editors “never stopped cutting episodes” even when it was announced the season wouldn’t run.
Since that announcement in March, TMZ added, Paul has worked to repair her public image on social media. Those efforts have gotten the attention of the network executives.
Mediaite
TMZ
Reality TV World
Reality Tea
TV Insider
TV Line
Deadline
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posted 6/24/2026 |
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Rolling Through the Smokies
New Season of "Great Food Truck Race" Begins July 26
From the Futon Critic |
The Great Food Truck Race kicks off a new season on Sunday, July 26th at 9pm (all times ET/PT) on Food Network and streaming the next day on HBO Max and this time around, it will be a battle of savory and sweet. With four trucks that specialize in savory dishes and four sweet-themed trucks, the eight competing teams each represent a dynamic mix of flavors, strategies and culinary creativity in their quest for the win. Host Tyler Florence will lead the route starting in Nashville and through the Great Smoky Mountains, stopping in cities with vibrant food scenes - all while adding unexpected twists and turns from the very first mile. Every week, the teams must prove their cooking expertise, marketing savvy and selling skills in themed challenges to beat their rivals - and for the first time, the bottom two teams each week will go head-to-head in a taste redemption battle to see who earns the right to stay and who heads home. The season will culminate in an action-packed finale on Sunday, September 6th at 9pm from the legendary Churchill Downs in Louisville, where only one truck will be awarded a life-changing $50,000 grand prize.
The teams competing are: Bug & Bear's Cannoli - Los Angeles, California (Joseph Serpico, Matthew Wilson, Dina Pecci); Cason Funnel Cakes - Richmond, Virginia (Terrance Cason, Andre Cason, Morris Green); Deadproof Pizza Co. - Derry, New Hampshire (Thomas Lomanno, Dante Marino, Lisa Bosteels); Grounds Donut House - Bronx, New York (Carmela Varotta, Gabriella Amoroso, Stephanie Hill); Hele Rolls - Kapolei, Hawaii (Brittany Lopez, Jasmine Milam, Mari Wills); Jollof Bowl - Baltimore, Maryland (Ethel Kamara, Andrea Kamara, Lekan Oketunji); Stuph'd Beignets & Burgers - New Orleans, Louisiana (Dionne Lewis, Duana Lawrence, Sherman Clarke) and Waffadilla - Hampshire, Illinois (Shawn Peterson, Madison Peterson, Gavin Mari).
Fans can get to know the competing teams and relive the most dramatic moments of the season on social using #GreatFoodTruckRace. Viewers can also follow the adventure and meet the teams on FoodNetwork.com, plus get summer grilling inspiration from host Tyler Florence.
The Great Food Truck Race is produced by Critical Content for Food Network.
The Futon Critic
Niagara Frontier Publications
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posted 6/24/2026 |
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Drag Race Down Under Takes on the World
Meet the Queens for the Inaugural Season
From Deadline |
Drag Race Down Under vs The World has unveiled the 11 queens battling in the drag race competition.
The reality series is hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race legend Michelle Visage, who will sit alongside a judging panel that includes Rhys Nicholson and Drag Race Down Under Season 4 winner Lazy Susan.
Five Drag Race Down Under queens will battle six formidable drag artists from around the world, each representing their own country and international series of Drag Race.
Unlike Drag Race Down Under, this time, the top two queens of the week choose which of the bottom two queens they want to eliminate from the competition. After a final lip-sync battle, the winning performer reveals which of the bottom queens they have chosen to send home. Who will take home the crown? Down Under or The World.
The eleven queens returning to compete are:
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Art Simone (Down Under S1)
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Coco Jumbo (Down Under S1)
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Estrella Xtravaganza (Drag Race España S2)
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Flor (Down Under S3)
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LaLa Ri (Drag Race S13, All Stars S8)
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M1ss Jade So (Drag Race Philippines S2)
- Michael Marouli (Drag Race UK S5)
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Nikita Iman (Down Under S4)
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Nicole Paige Brooks (Drag Race S2, All Stars S10)
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Raven (Drag Race S2, All Stars S1)
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Vybe (Down Under S4).
Drag Race Down Under vs The World premieres in the U.S. on WOW Presents+ and in Australia on Stan starting July 24. Drag Race Down Under vs The World is a World of Wonder production in collaboration with Stan in Australia and WOW Presents Plus. Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, Tom Campbell, and RuPaul Charles serve as Executive Producers for World of Wonder. Adrian Swift and Tina Diaz serve as Executive Producers for Stan.
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Reality Tea
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posted 6/24/2026 |
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NBCUniversal
UPFRONTS: NBCUniversal
IN: The Voice, The Traitors, Wordle
From various sources
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Three days after airing the Primetime Emmy Awards on Monday, Sept. 14, NBC will begin its 2026-27 entertainment season with a stacked lineup of new and returning reality series, the highly popular OneChicago and "Law & Order" franchises and exciting freshman additions - the compelling drama "Line of Fire" and new comedy "Newlyweds."
The season gets off to a supersized start at 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept.17 with the two-hour launch of "The Traitors: New Blood," the innovative civilian-led incarnation of the Emmy Award-winning hit Peacock series hosted by Alan Cumming. Followed by another two-hour episode on Sept. 24, the series will move into its regular hourlong timeslot on Thursday, Oct. 8.
Milestone season 30 of "The Voice" arrives the next week at 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21 with new coaches Queen Latifah and Riley Green. They'll be joined by Kelly Clarkson and Adam Levine, the latter who returned to "The Voice" last season in winning fashion as he took home the crown in the first ever "The Voice: Battle of Champions."
Right after "The Voice" at 10 p.m. will mark the premiere of the new drama series "Line of Fire," starring Peter Krause and Hope Davis, about a family of law enforcement professionals entangled in a deadly conspiracy. Another thrilling season of summer's most-watched series will conclude Wednesday, Sept. 23 when a new champion is set to be crowned on "America's Got Talent."
In what is certain to be one of the biggest television events of the year, NBC will celebrate its monumental 100th anniversary on Dec. 10 with a live three-hour variety special from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The network will commemorate its once-in-a-lifetime anniversary with a telecast that will honor a century of must-see television, groundbreaking moments and iconic stars.
On the unscripted side, NBC has greenlit a new game show series based on "Wordle," the globally beloved word game from The New York Times Games. An avid "Wordle" player, "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie will serve as host of the primetime gameshow executive produced by Jimmy Fallon. The new format challenges players to solve five-letter word puzzles in a supersized battle of smarts, speed and fun. It builds on the way the puzzle community engages with Wordle every day - solving together, sharing wins, debating strategies and cheering one another on. Now, that style of play comes to life as the most-obsessed and competitive players will team up in squads and go head-to-head in the "Wordle" arena, playing for an incredible cash prize. Produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio (UTAS), in partnership with Jimmy Fallon's Electric Hot Dog and The New York Times, the series brings the global phenomenon to television with a fresh, fast-paced format. Originally launched in 2021 and acquired by The New York Times in 2022, Wordle has become a cultural phenomenon, engaging millions of daily players worldwide and inspiring conversation across generations.
NBC's four-time Emmy Award-winning musical competition series "The Voice" returns this fall for season 30 with coaches Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine and Riley Green, who confirmed his participation this past weekend at his concert in Alpharetta, Ga. A fourth coach joining the superstar panel will be announced shortly. "The Voice" is a presentation of MGM Television, Warner Horizon Unscripted Television, a Warner Bros. Television Group, and ITV Studios The Voice USA, Inc. The series was created by John de Mol, who serves as an executive producer along with Mark Burnett, Audrey Morrissey, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson, Adam H. Sher and Barry Poznick.
"The Traitors" is coming to NBC with an all-new all-civilian version of Peacock's Emmy Award-winning competition reality series known for strategic gameplay and skillful saboteurs. In this brand-new iteration of "The Traitors" for NBC, Emmy-winning host Alan Cumming is opening the doors to his now infamous castle in the Scottish Highlands to everyday Americans. There he will ask them, "Are you a Faithful? Or are you a Traitor?" "The Traitors" is a nail-biting psychological adventure in which treachery and deceit are the name of the game. Set at an ancient castle set deep in the Scottish Highlands, contestants work together on a series of exhilarating missions to build a prize fund worth up to $250,000. Hidden amongst the Faithful are the Traitors, whose goal is to eliminate the Faithful and claim the prize for themselves. Under the cover of darkness, the Traitors murder the Faithful one by one in a treacherous spree while the Faithful try to uncover the Traitors and banish them from the game. If the Faithful contestants banish all the Traitors, they will share the prize fund, but if a Traitor (or Traitors) makes it to the end, they will steal all the money. "The Traitors" is produced by Studio Lambert, part of All3 Media. Alan Cumming hosts as well as serves as an executive producer along with Mike Cotton, Sam Rees-Jones, Rosie Franks, Jack Burgess, Stephen Lambert and Tim Harcourt.
Other unscripted series returning to NBC this summer are "America's Got Talent," "American Ninja Warrior" and "Password." As previously announced, "Destination X" will return in 2027.
NBC FALL 2026-27 SCHEDULE (New programs in UPPER CASE; all times ET/PT). Game shows are in bold.
MONDAY (September/October)
- 8p: The Voice
- 10p: LINE OF FIRE
MONDAY (November)
- 8p: St. Denis Medical
- 8:30p: The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins
- 9p: The Voice
- 10p: LINE OF FIRE
TUESDAY
- 8p: NBA Coast 2 Coast
WEDNESDAY
- 8p: Chicago Med
- 9p: Chicago Fire
- 10p: Chicago PD
THURSDAY
- 8p: THE TRAITORS
- 9p: Law & Order: SVU
- 10p: Law & Order
FRIDAY
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8p: Happy's Place
- 8:30p: NEWLYWEDS
- 9p: Dateline NBC
SATURDAY
- 7p: Big Ten/Notre Dame Pregame
- 7:30p: Big Ten Saturday Night/Notre Dame Football
SUNDAY
- 7p: Football Night in America
- 8:20p: Sunday Night Football
MIDSEASON TBA
- THE ROCKFORD FILES
- SUNSET PI
- WORDLE
Other upfront notes....
- Jimmy Fallon spent a lot of time last year promoting his business reality format On Brand. Unfortunately, it was one and done for The Tonight Show host after NBC elected to cancel the unscripted series. The show, which was created, hosted and exec produced by Fallon, follows him as he starts a marketing agency “and fills it with the most creative, clever, and competitive go-getters he can find”. He was joined by former Netflix marketing chief Bozoma Saint John, who was also a cast member of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, as On Brand Agency’s Chief Marketing Offer, where she mentored the creatives and evaluated their work.
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Peacock has renewed Love Island Games for a third season, with Ariana Madix set to return as host. The streamer made the announcement during the NBCUniversal Upfront, revealing that Season 3 of the competition-dating series will launch in the Fall of 2027.
- Staying on Love Island,
a hot new bombshell enters the Love Island USA villa as Ciara Miller has been set to co-host companion series Aftersun. The Summer House star will be hosting Peacock‘s dating series after show alongside Tefi Pessoa.
The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
Variety
The Wrap
Variety
Realtiy Tea
The Futon Critic
TV Insider
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
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posted 6/24/2026 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Tyra's Bad Choices" |
- Bad choice #1: Tyra Banks teases "AI contestant" in ANTM reboot (Entertainment Weekly)
- Bad choice #2: What are Tyra's chances against Netflix? Let's ask a former contestant... turned lawyer (Reality Tea)
- Survivor alums may play a bigger role in "White Lotus" season 4 (TV Insider)
- BTS: an audio tech shows us how the magic happens in TPIR (TV Insider)
- Joan Vassos welcomes two grandkids (Reality TV World)
- Gail Simmons has yet to hear from when the new season of "Top Chef" is playing (Reality Blurred)
- Marc Summers' "Majority Rules" is unearthed (Facebook)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Derek Hough (The Hollywood Reporter)
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posted 6/24/2023 |
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Studio Lambert/Netflix
"The Circle" Is Moving
New Season Ordered by Hulu, Michelle Buteau Not Returning
From Deadline
|
Michaelle Buteau hosted The Circle in the U.S. for seven seasons, and with Hulu rebooting the reality competition, many viewers wondered if she would return as the host.
While appearing on Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live, the comedian revealed that she would not be hosting the new iteration of the series.
“I’m glad that The Circle found a new home because it’s a great show,” Buteau said on the late-night talk show hosted by Andy Cohen. “I hosted the U.S. version, the longest-running version (seven seasons), and I put my foot in it, my back, my back fat, my right (breast), I put all the stuff in it.”
“But they’re not going to go through with me being the host, so I say, good luck, bless up, I hope you have fun putting a square in a circle.”
The Circle was one of Netflix’s first hits in the reality competition space and spawned versions in France and Brazil.
The move comes after Rob Mills, who is EVP, Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment at Walt Disney Television, told Deadline in April that it was making a ““concentrated” push into serialized competition with Parker Posey-fronted series The Mob.
Unlike the Netflix version, which featured civilians, the Hulu version will also feature celebrity contestants. It will also introduce audience voting for the first time in the U.S. and is being “reimagined” as a “fast-turnaround” social experiment.
It will bring everyday players and celebrities to compete side by side in a game of popularity where identity is ever-changing, and anyone can be anyone. Essentially, contestants move into separate apartments in the same building but are kept isolated from each other. They are only allowed to communicate via a specific app using text and photos but they can decide to play the game as themselves or anyone else they like.
The original was described as Catfish-meets-Black Mirror.
The Hulu version will be filmed in real time, giving viewers access as twists and player ratings unfold, with audience votes shaping the game.
The format first launched on Channel 4 in the UK and ran for three seasons between 2018 and 2021. Netflix launched a U.S. version in 2020 with four versions through to 2022. The streamer then launched seasons six and seven in 2024.
The Hulu series is produced by Studio Lambert and WPP’s Motion Entertainment, which produced the original, with Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions also on board. Susan House, who exec produced the Netflix series and has also worked on ABC’s The Bachelor and The Hustler, will serve as showrunner. It will be exec produced by Studio Lambert’s Tim Harcourt, Jack Burgess, Niall O’Driscoll and Stephen Lambert, Motion Entertainment’s Martin Oxley and Chet Fenster and Omaha’s Peyton Manning, Jamie Horowitz and Colin Campbell. All3Media International handles format and tape sales.
Deadline
What's on Disney Plus?
Reality Tea
The Wrap
Cinema Blend
TV Line
Deadline
|
posted 6/23/2026 |
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I Am, And Always Have Been, on WhatsApp
All3Media Licenses "The Traitors" for "Anywhere" Game
From License Global |
All3Media International has launched several live entertainment ventures based on its television properties, expanding from immersive gameplay and city-wide adventures to theatre productions. Additional experiences are planned for 2026 and 2027.
IDTV's "The Traitors" has been adapted in 40 territories worldwide, including BAFTA-winning and Emmy-winning versions in the U.K. and U.S.
Announced today, All3Media International has partnered with the Race Across the World: The Experience team on The Traitors: Anywhere, a social deduction game launching in the U.K. and Ireland in 2026. The game operates entirely through WhatsApp, bringing the tension, strategy and psychological intrigue of "The Traitors" into players' everyday lives.
The game transforms a private group chat into a world of suspicion, scheming and surprise. Designed for up to 30 players, with larger groups able to split into parallel games, each experience unfolds over approximately one week.
Players navigate a cycle of missions, Round Table discussions, banishments and covert traitor activity as participants complete challenges, form alliances and attempt to uncover hidden traitors or successfully conceal their own identity. Private messages with the host add strategy elements, while the group chat becomes the central platform for accusations, persuasion and reveals.
License Global
Variety
|
posted 6/23/2026 |
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Prime Video, Talpa Launch "Alliance"
Indian Reality Format to Launch Globally
From Deadline |
Prime Video India’s upcoming reality series Alliance will launch worldwide on June 26.
The Hindi-language show will debut as the Amazon streamer’s first-ever original global daily series and will also mark Kunal Kemmu’s debut as a reality show host.
Alliance is the first international adaptation of Talpa Studios‘ Dutch format of the same name, created by John de Mol, and produced locally by Banijay Asia.
The game format show follows 16 contestants who enter the game as duos, but quickly discover that no alliance is permanent. The final player standing at the end is the winner.
“As a first-of-its-kind format for India, Alliance will combine strategy, shifting loyalties, and constantly evolving gameplay, creating a truly immersive experience that will keep our audiences engaged every single day from start to end,” said Nikhil Madhok, director and Head of Originals, Prime Video, India.
"We are delighted to partner with Banijay Asia, yet again to bring this globally successful format to India. The success we have seen with our unscripted slate, including The Traitors India and Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle, reflects the growing appetite for distinctive and unconventional reality content. We are confident that Alliance will continue this momentum and emerge as a compelling addition to the genre.”
Deepak Dhar, founder and Group CEO, Banijay Asia, said: “Given the name of the show, it feels appropriate to say we’re thrilled to be in Alliance with Prime Video on this one. What drew us to the format was its sheer scale. The games are ambitious, cinematic, and unlike anything we’ve attempted before, but spectacle alone doesn’t make a great format. “What makes Alliance stand out is the constant interplay between strategy and performance. Contestants are pushed physically, mentally, and emotionally, with every challenge creating new opportunities and new setbacks.”
Deadline
India Today
The Futon Critic
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posted 6/23/2026 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Terry Crews? Fireworks? Ironic, Don't You Think?" |
- Terry Crews will host Macy's 4th of July Fireworks, presented by Brawndo (The Futon Critic)
- The password is... advisor. Keke Palmer named to BET's newly-established board (The Futon Critic)
- W. Kamau Bell to Nate Bargatze: "It Is So Easy to Not Do This" (Variety)
- Savannah Guthrie responds to note alleging that the worst has happened (The Hollywood Reporter)
- Ryan Seacrest just sold his Napa Valley digs for $18.5 million (TV Insider)
- Kira Mengistu is keeping details private... but she has been made honest (Reality TV World)
- One night in Nashville may cost Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean $1.4 million (MSN)
- Elizabeth Banks is ready to board "The Magic School Bus" (The Hollywood Reporter)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Ashley Iaconetti (TV Insider)
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posted 6/23/2023 |
 |

Everett Collection
Gabby's Opening Her Dollhouse
Netflix Greenlights Competition Series Based on Kids Series
From Deadline
|
A Gabby’s Dollhouse-inspired competition series is coming to Netflix.
Hosted by Laila Lockhart Kraner, who voiced Gabby in the series and portrayed the character in the live-action movie, follows talented young baker-and-maker duos as they compete in whimsical baking and crafting challenges inspired by the magical world of Gabby. Four holiday-themed episodes will launch later this year, along with new episodes in 2027.
“Since Gabby’s Dollhouse first premiered on Netflix in 2021, a world of creativity and imagination has exploded for our young audience and it only continues to grow” said co-creators Jennifer Twomey and Traci Paige Johnson.“We’ve been so lucky to continue playing and creating in the Dollhouse, with a fourteenth season coming to Netflix, and now a competition series that brings play to life in a new way.”
Deadline
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
|
posted 6/22/2026 |
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Dropout Revisits "Crowd Control"
"Game Changer" Spinoff Renewed for Season 2
From Variety |
Indie streamer Dropout has set 30 comedians to compete on the upcoming second season of its latest “Game Changer” spinoff, “Crowd Control.”
Hosted by Jacquis Neal with announcer Chioke I’Anson, each episode of “Crowd Control” features a trio of comedians as they compete against one another in a battle of the best crowdwork with no prewritten material allowed. Instead, the comedians have to develop their impromptu sets based on prompts given to them and audience interactions. Then, that same “Crowd Control” audience gets to pick the winner.
Comedians joining Dropout’s “Crowd Control” for its 10-episode Season 2 include Taylor Tomlinson, Tony Baker, Jeff Arcuri, Bob the Drag Queen, Drew Lynch, Gianmarco Soresi, Nicole Byer, Ron Funches, Aaron Branch, Sasheer Zamata, Amber Ruffin, Cameron Esposito, Emily Catalano, Reggie Watts, Kristin Key, Dulcé Sloan, Joel Kim Booster, Maria Bamford, Bobby Moynihan, Guy Branum, Roz Hernandez, Jordan Myrick, Demi Adejuyigbe, Dylan Adler, Grant O’Brien, Jackie Kashian, Debra DiGiovanni, Sabrina Jalees, Raphael Chestang and Joyelle Nicole Johnson.
The premiere date for “Crowd Control” Season 2 has not yet been set, but Dropout confirmed to Variety it will debut “later this summer.”
The second-season casting announcement for “Crowd Control” comes amid Dropout’s release of “Game Changer” Season 8, which began airing May 18. “Crowd Control” is Dropout’s fourth spinoff series based on a “Game Changer” episode, alongside “Make Some Noise,” “Dirty Laundry” and “Play It By Ear.”
The six-episode first season of “Crowd Control” launched in September 2025.
Variety
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posted 6/22/2026 |
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WireImage
CLIVE DAVIS: 1932-2026
"The Man with the Golden Ears" Judged Talent Shows
From CNN |
Clive Davis, the legendary music producer of industry icons from Janis Joplin and Whitney Houston to Billy Joel and Santana, has died.
Davis, famously dubbed “the man with the golden ears,” was 94. His family confirmed his death in a social media post.
Davis’s family remembered him as both “a towering figure whose influence changed music forever” as well as “the man who led our family with grace, generosity, and kindness.”
The Brooklyn-born Davis never intended to lead a life in music, let alone shape pop culture’s musical tastes for decades. After his parents died in his late teens, he graduated from Harvard Law School and became a lawyer before going to work for Columbia Records in 1960. Five years later, Davis had ascended to be the record label’s top lawyer and was soon named Columbia’s president.
Davis’ first major signing was Janis Joplin, whom he first saw perform at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967. In his 2013 memoir “The Soundtrack of my Life,” Davis described Joplin’s stage presence as “not conventionally beautiful,” but “her body seemed to vibrate with the modulations of her voice, which struck with equal impact whether she was wailing at the top of her lungs or delivering an intimate whisper.”
His instinct for talent led Davis to discover and sign eventual megastars like Bruce Springsteen, Carlos Santana, Chicago, Earth, Wind and Fire, Aerosmith and Barry Manilow. In a tribute posted to social media on Monday, Springsteen honored his “close friend,” who he said changed his life when the producer signed him to Columbia in his early 20s. “He treated me with the same respect and kindness as a 22-year-old nobody as he did after all my success,” Springsteen wrote. “A great man.”
Billy Joel was floundering as a recording artist when Davis signed him in 1973. “Piano Man” was Joel’s first album at Columbia and paved his way to superstardom. “When they all hit, one after another and I was there, making that judgment… it obviously gave me confidence to keep going,” Davis said.
The 1980s brought perhaps Davis’ most storied discovery: 19-year-old pop sensation Whitney Houston. Their collaboration led to a record-setting seven consecutive No. 1 singles, including “Saving All My Love for You,” “How Will I Know,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” and “Where Do Broken Hearts Go.”
If Davis didn’t discover a star, there was a good chance he nurtured them along the way. Simon and Garfunkel, The Grateful Dead, Dionne Warwick, Miles Davis, Rod Stewart and Luther Vandross all crossed his path. When Aretha Franklin’s career stalled in later years, Davis contemporized her style. In 1987, Franklin went to number one on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart with “I Knew You were Waiting (For Me),” a duet with George Michael that marked her first number one hit since 1967’s “Respect.”
The accolades didn’t come without struggles. Davis was pushed out of Columbia Records in 1973 over accusations he used company funds for personal uses. He later said in his memoir that the expenses were always meant to be reimbursed. The scandal came at the same time as a federal investigation of alleged “payola” at Columbia, of which Davis was cleared, but he was still charged with tax evasion on unreimbursed expenses. Five of the six charges were later dropped.
“This virtually complete exoneration received nothing like the coverage of all the baseless charges, rumors, and guilt-by-association whispers that I had lived with since leaving Columbia,” Davis wrote in 2013.
He responded by starting Arista Records and continuing his unprecedented hot streak.
Later, in 1989, Arista expanded into country music and struck big with Alan Jackson and Brooks & Dunn.
“You’ve got to be a survivor,” Davis once said of show business. “You’ve got to rise above cold periods, you’ve got to come back.”
Davis himself won four Grammy awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. That same year he formed J Records and launched the career of Alicia Keys, whose debut album “Songs In A Minor” sold more than 10 million copies and won her five Grammy Awards.
Further growth Davis expanded into hip-hop in the ’90s, partially acquiring Sean Combs’ label Bad Boy Records, which spawned enormous hits from Notorious B.I.G., Faith Evans and others.
On television, it was Davis' company that would sign the winners of early seasons of "American Idol", where he recurrently sat on the panel. Davis also featured on episodes of "The X Factor", "Dancing with the Stars", and "The Voice".
Davis married twice and had four children.
CNN
CBS News
Variety
The New York Times
TV Insider
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posted 6/22/2026 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "A Bombshell for a Bombshell" |
- Remember when we mentioned Alannah in the lead story? Well.... she sad a bad word (Reality Tea)
- Is there more to George Knight's Love Island UK ouster than meets the eye? (The Sun)
- Danny Bretherton taking a break from December 10 after online controversy (Reality Tea)
- The Bachelorette is blind! Blake Horstmann, Giannina Gibelli marry in Europe (People)
- RuPaul turned "Drag Race" into an Emmy dynasty (The Hollywood Reporter)
- Kristen Kish compares "Top Chef" to "The Traitors" (The Hollywood Reporter)
- How Sam Reich turned "Game Changer" into an Emmy ... favorite? (The Hollywood Reporter)
- Jeremy Clarkson's prostate cancer reportedly in remission (BBC News)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Zuri Hall (TV Insider)
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posted 6/22/2023 |
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Studio Lambert/Peacock
"Traitors" Draws "New Blood"
Catch the All-Civilian Version on NBC September 17
From the Futon Critic
|
The first two episodes of NBC's new all-civilian version of The Traitors, deemed The Traitors: New Blood for the upcoming season, will debut Thursday, September 17 in a special two-hour extended premiere. New episodes of The Traitors: New Blood will continue to air Thursdays at 8:00 PM ET/PT on NBC and stream the next day on Peacock.
In lieu of celebrities and socialites, Emmy-winning host Alan Cumming will open the doors to his now-infamous Scottish castle to 22 everyday Americans, hand selected from a nationwide search resulting in over 60,000 hopeful applicants.
The Traitors is one of television's most honored reality competition series with The Traitors on Peacock earning five Primetime Emmy(R) Awards for Season 3, including Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program for Alan Cumming (his second consecutive win), Outstanding Reality Competition Program, Outstanding Directing for a Reality Program, Outstanding Cinematography for a Reality Program and Outstanding Picture Editing for a Structured Reality or Competition Program. Season 4 of The Traitors on Peacock also recently led this year's Critics Choice Real TV Awards, earning five awards: Best Competition Series, Best Ensemble Cast in an Unscripted Series, Best Show Host for Alan Cumming, Female Star of the Year for Lisa Rinna and Male Star of the Year for Rob Rausch.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
TV Line
TV Insider
Reality Tea
|
posted 6/18/2026 |
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Netflix
Netflix Says...
Streamer to Put New Twist on "Simon Says"
From Netflix Tudum
|
Following directions is only half the battle in Simon Says.
A new reality competition series based on the OG playground game of the same name is premiering on Netflix in 2027. But this isn’t the Simon you remember from recess. In a mischievous and high-stakes twist, contestants will face a gauntlet of cunning challenges, strategic mind games, and unexpected pivots as they compete for a life-changing prize. One rule remains the same: if Simon says it, you’d better listen.
To win over Simon and his prize money, players must decide when to follow orders or risk elimination. Obedience may buy another day, but every choice comes with consequences.
Showrunner Emer Harkin (MTV’s The Challenge) and executive producers Julie Pizzi, Rupert Dobson, and Gayani Wanigaratne will bring Simon’s sinister sense of humor to life. Simon Says, which is produced by Bunim/Murray Productions, part of Banijay Americas, joins Netflix’s growing slate of must-watch competition series, including The Golden Ticket, Squid Game: The Challenge, Million Dollar Secret, Is It Cake?, Win the Mall and many more.
Netflix Tudum
The Futon Critic
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
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posted 6/18/2026 |
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Sony Pictures TV/ABC
Meet the Season 4 "Jeopardy! Masters"
Catch It on ABC August 25
From the Futon Critic
|
Hosted by Ken Jennings, the fourth annual "Jeopardy! Masters" tournament will return to ABC on Tuesday, Aug. 25, at 8 p.m. EDT and stream next day on Hulu. "Jeopardy! Masters" is the highly competitive culmination of the "Jeopardy!" season, featuring the year's elite "Jeopardy!" champions as they face off for the grand prize of $500,000.
The lineup of top players is as follows: reigning "Jeopardy! Masters" champion Yogesh Raut and returning finalists Juveria Zaheer and Victoria Groce, 2026 "Jeopardy!" Tournament of Champions winner Paolo Pasco, and 2026 "Jeopardy!" Invitational Tournament winner Andrew He and runner-up Long Nguyen. Andrew He will make his return to the "Jeopardy! Masters" stage after competing in the first edition of the tournament.
The series is produced by Sony Pictures Television and executive-produced by Michael Davies.
The 2026 "Jeopardy! Masters" tournament will air across the following nine episodes:
-
Tuesday through Friday, Aug. 25-28 (Episodes 1-4)
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Tuesday through Friday, Sept. 1-4 (Episodes 5-8)
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Tuesday, Sept. 8 - Finale
The Futon Critic
Niagara Frontier Publications
TV Insider
Give Me My Remote
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posted 6/18/2026 |
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Spyglass Media Group/Freeform
More on "Project Runway" Season 22
Catch It on Freeform July 9
From the Futon Critic
|
Hosted by Heidi Klum, "Project Runway" makes a fashionable return with its biggest season ever on July 9 at 9:30 p.m. EDT/PDT on Freeform and will stream shortly after on Hulu and Disney+, followed by weekly airings.
For the first time, 22 designers from different backgrounds, the most in "Project Runway" history, will compete for a chance to take their careers to the next level. Heidi Klum, Law Roach and Nina Garcia return as judges, with Christian Siriano returning as mentor.
This season, supermodel and entrepreneur Tyra Banks joins as a recurring judge.
Guest judges for season 22 include Ciara, Fausto Puglisi, Ice Spice, Iman, Kiernan Shipka, Niecy Nash, Nina Dobrev, Sergio Hudson, Willy Chavarria and Winnie Harlow.
This season will feature cameos from Becca Bloom, Hannah Berner, Molly Rogers (costume designer, "The Devil Wears Prada 2"), Nara Smith, Nicky Campbell and Paige DeSorbo.
As previously announced, worlds collide as the "Dancing with the Stars" cast hits the "Runway" catwalk, with appearances from Brandon Armstrong, Alan Bersten, Val Chmerkovskiy, Jenna Johnson, Emma Slater, Ezra Sosa, Britt Stewart and Julianne Hough. And stars from Hulu's "Get Real" universe, Charity Lawson ("The Bachelorette"), Sarah Jane Nader ("Love Thy Nader"), Ekin-Su ("Vanderpump Villa") and "Project Runway" Season 21 winner Veejay Floresca will also appear as models in an episode this season.
"Project Runway" is produced by Spyglass Media Group and Alfred Street Industries. Executive producers include Gary Barber and Sean Hoagland for Spyglass and Dan Cutforth, Jane Lipsitz, Nan Strait and Dan Volpe for Alfred Street Industries. Michael Rucker serves as showrunner and executive producer, along with San Heng and Nicole Sorrenti, who executive-produce. Klum, Siriano and Garcia are executive producers, with Roach as co-executive producer.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Reality Tea
iReality Blurred
|
posted 6/18/2026 |
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Another Round of Bullseye
ITV Picks Up a New Season of Reboot
From Radio Times |
Bullseye has been recommissioned for another series on ITV, with Freddie Flintoff returning as host alongside scorer Richard Ashdown.
The series successfully returned in 2024, with the modern revival reaching nearly 15 million viewers, with 7 million tuning in to watch last year's Christmas special alone.
Flintoff said of the renewal: "It’s great that Bullseye still has a special place in the nation’s heart, as it does mine, and I loved bringing it back on TV screens. I can’t wait to see what a new season brings."
The series sees three pairs of contestants, each containing an amateur dart player and their team partner, as they compete against each others. The teams then test their skills at throwing darts at different game boards while answering questions correctly for points and a fabulous range of prizes. As they progress throughout the show, three teams are then whittled down to one final pair who can go on to risk all their money and prizes for Bully's Mystery Star Prize.
Katie Rawcliffe, director of entertainment, reality & daytime commissioning ITV commented: "Bullseye is a cherished format which has proved incredibly popular with viewers since its return, undoubtedly helped by Freddie. We’re thrilled to be bringing another series to screens later this year."
While Lily Wilson, managing director, Bright Entertainment added: "We are thrilled to be bringing the iconic Bullseye back to British TV audiences later this year. With Freddie Flintoff equally as adored by the public, he is the perfect host for this modern take on a TV classic."
Radio Times
Digital Spy
Liverpool Echo
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posted 6/18/2026 |
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Emmys/ABC
Dancing with Guillermo
"Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Sidekick Joins DWTS Season 35
From Deadline
|
Dancing with the Stars has added another celebrity to its Season 35 roster. Jimmy Kimmel Live star Guillermo Rodriguez will be sashaying his way across the ballroom floor this fall, Disney revealed on Wednesday night.
So far, he joins a cast that includes The Traitors and Love Island breakout Maura Higgins, Summer House favorite Ciara Miller and Savannah Bananas second baseman Jackson Olson. The full cast of celebrities and their pro dancing partners is expected to be unveiled on Good Morning America September 2.
Season 35 will air on ABC and simulcast on Disney+ sometime in the fall, though Disney hasn’t given an exact premiere date yet.
Deadline
TV Line
The Wrap
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
Reality TV World
Reality Tea
|
posted 6/18/2026 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Haute Cuisine" |
- Padma Lakshmi explains how "America's Culinary Cup" is the harbinger of "High-End" food TV (The Hollywood Reporter)
- Hannah Harper to go on tour with Brad Paisley (TV Insider)
- Megan Walerius undergoes breast explant surgery (Swooon)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Olandria Carthen (Cosmopolitan)
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posted 6/18/2023 |
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AP
TOM DREESEN: 1940-2026
Legendary Comedian Sat on Panels
From Deadline |
Tom Dreesen, the comedian and comic actor whose sharp delivery and amiability made him a favorite not only with audiences but of show biz kingpins like Johnny Carson and Frank Sinatra, died today. He was 86
His death was announced by a spokesperson for his family. A cause was not stated.
“For more than five decades, Tom Dreesen brought laughter, heart, and humanity to audiences across America,” the statement said. “A proud native of Harvey, Illinois, Tom built a remarkable career through perseverance, talent.”
Dreesen began his career in the late 1960s as half of the comedy team Tim and Tom with actor Tim Reid, a barrier-breaking interracial duo. Reid later went on to star as Venus Flytrap in the 1978-82 sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati. (Dreesen would late make a guest appearance on his old friend’s show.)
Dreesen continued as a stand-up comic, becoming a ubiquitous presence in the 1970s and ’80s (and thereafter), with more than 500 appearances on national television throughout his career.
Perhaps most significantly, he made over 60 appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and was subsequently a frequent guest on The Late Show with David Letterman. He occasionally guest hosted The Late Show in Letterman’s absence. Dreesen’s final TV appearance was just last week when he was a guest June 9 on CBS’ Comics Unleashed With Byron Allen.
Considered one of the great opening acts in the business, Dreesen set the stage for numerous headliners like Liza Minnelli, Sammy Davis Jr., Frankie Avalon, Smokey Robinson, Tony Orlando, Gladys Knight and, most notably and for 13 years, his good friend Frank Sinatra.
As an actor, Dreesen had roles in Columbo, Touched By An Angel and Murder, She Wrote, and in such films as Spaceballs, Man on the Moon, The Rat Pack and Trouble with the Curve.
In game shows, Dreesen was a guest on Match Game, Pyramid, Mindreaders, Beat the Clock, Hollywood Squares, Hot Potato, Family Feud, Wordplay, and Just Men!.
Although complete information on survivors was not immediately available, the family statement said Dreesen “was a devoted father, brother, grandfather, friend, mentor, storyteller, and motivator. He gave generously of his time, supported countless charitable causes, and inspired others through his motivational speaking, his writing, and his personal example.”
The family, the statement continued, “asks for privacy at this time and is thankful for all the heartfelt condolences.”
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
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posted 6/17/2026 |
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Instagram
JAMES BARKER: 1986-2026
"Love Island USA" Producer Lost to "Medical Emergency"
From Deadline |
James Barker, a Love Island USA producer who had been working on the current season of the Peacock dating series, has died. He was 40.
The executive producer died in Fiji last week after suffering an unexpected medical emergency, ITV America and Peacock confirmed.
Barker started working on Love Island USA in 2020 as a story producer and worked his way up to EP, a role he had been preparing for over the past three seasons. His contributions to the show covered both production and post-production, and overseeing the show’s soundtrack.
“James’ unimaginable loss has been deeply felt across not just the entire Love Island USA production, but throughout all of ITV and Peacock,” ITV America and Peacock said in a joint statement.
“He was a beloved and greatly valued member of our collective family whose kindness, talent, and dedication left an indelible mark on all of us and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to James’ partner, family, friends, and colleagues.”
Love Island USA paid tribute to late executive producer James Barker at the end of the latest episode.
As the June 16 episode concluded, the show honored the longtime employee, who lost his life during the filming of Season 8 in Fiji.
Host Ariana Madix shared with the contestants, “None of us know how long we’ve got. For some, that time can be cut way too short. So please cherish every moment.”
The episode then concluded with a photo montage simply titled, “For James.” The images included the 40-year-old smiling at concerts, poolside and with friends. It ended with his name, followed by one last photo. The final image was a card which read, “We love you.”
Barker began his television career in 2011 at Leftfield Pictures, where he worked as a producer on shows like Counting Cars, Forged in Fire, and Pawn Stars. At ITV America, he produced Queer Eye and numerous seasons of Love Island USA and Love Island Games. Barker also worked on shows for Scout Productions, Sharp Entertainment, and Kinetic Content.
The Wrap
Reality Shrine
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
Reality TV World
Reality Tea
Reality Tea
|
posted 6/17/2026 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Tip Toe to Starz" |
- Alan Cumming's queer drama "Tip Toe" picked up by Starz (Deadline)
- Paramount Animation plans Survivor movie based on animal kingdom (Deadline)
- Kristen Kish teams with Lindsay Ames to launch "The Great American Sandwich Show" (The Hollywood Reporter)
- Jeremy Clarkson diagnosed with "aggressive" prostate cancer (TV Line)
- Katie Thurston to pause treatments because "I need a break" (People)
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posted 6/17/2023 |
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Fremantle/NBC
Just in the Knick of Time
NBA Champion Josh Hart Plays Password Tonight!
From NBC PR
|
The New York Knicks' NBA championship celebration continues tonight on a new episode of Password Season 3.
The fan-favorite game show is just a few weeks into its third season, with Emmy-winning Host Keke Palmer and Jimmy Fallon returning as its resident player. And the June 16 episode will be one basketball fans won't want to miss when Knicks guard Josh Hart will see if he can bring his winning ways to Password!
Fans can catch Hart's Password episode tonight, June 16, at 10 p.m. ET on NBC, with the episode streaming next day on Peacock. Watch a preview clip above — spoiler alert, Hart and his teammate absolutely nail the round.
Hart and his teammates captured the Larry O'Brien championship trophy with a Game 5 NBA Finals win over the San Antonio Spurs on June 13, ending a 53-year title drought for the storied New York Knicks franchise.
NBC Insider
The US Sun
OnTheFlix
|
posted 6/16/2026 |
 |

Getty
"Funny AF" Renewed
Netflix Reups Kevin Hart-Hosted Talent Search, Adds Interactivity
From Deadline
|
Netflix has announced that its comedy competition series Funny AF with Kevin Hart, culminating in the naming of Ron Taylor as its inaugural winner at Netflix Is a Joke Fest 2026, has been renewed for a second season amid Emmy campaigns for both the series and its host.
The show is up for Outstanding Reality Competition Program, with Hart up for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program. Season 2 is expected to release in 2027 and will again include live episodes with real-time voting where members decide the winner.
Premiering this past April, Funny AF is an uncensored competition bringing together rising comedians from across the country, each stepping into the spotlight with one goal: to make the same leap Kevin once did and become a household name. Throughout the series, Hart is joined by a circle of comedy heavyweights who help decide which comics advance, offering a behind-the-curtain look at the pressure, triumphs, and occasional bombs that define a stand-up career. The competition builds toward high-stakes live final rounds, where a global vote determines the ultimate winner.
Roundly embraced by the comedy community as an opportunity to shine a light on fresh voices and mint some new comedy stars, at a time when talent incubation in stand-up is otherwise somewhat lacking, Funny AF‘s first season remained in the Netflix Top 10 for over three weeks, building on Hart’s history of success at the streamer, where in the last two years, his titles have generated more than 1 billion views.
In addition to Detroit-born Taylor, finalists of Funny AF Season 1 included Usama Siddiquee, Caitlin Peluffo, and Reg Thomas. Special guests joining Hart included Keegan-Michael Key, Tom Segura, Kumail Nanjiani, Chelsea Handler, Nikki Glaser, Chris Rock, and the NFL’s Marshawn Lynch.
Deadline
The Futon Critic
|
posted 6/16/2026 |
 |
Drag Race France Ruveals Season 4 Queens
Catch It on WOW Presents Plus July 8
From Deadline |
Drag Race France is back for Season 4, and WOW Presents Plus has unveiled the 10 queens competing in the new season, which is set to premiere on July 8 on the streamer.
After three seasons and an All Stars version, the French adaptation of the drag race competition returns with new queens, new rules, and a dazzling new Werk Room.
Nicky Doll is set to return as host and judge alongside Daphné Bürki and Loïc Prigent. The first celebrity guest judge is Isabelle Adjani.
Brand-new twists, French and international guest stars, and a season more unpredictable than ever, Season 4 promises glam, drama, over-the-top performances, and plenty of surprises.
New this year is the biggest twist yet – the Golden Baguette! Before leaving the Werk Room, each eliminated queen will have one final mission: awarding the Golden Baguette to the sister of her choice. The queen who receives this power will be able to save one of the bottom three queens the following week, or save herself if she’s in danger. It’s the ultimate get out of jail card!
The ten new queens for Drag Race France Season 4 are Azemylia, Creatine Price, Daisy Superbitch, Fluffy Bidule, Holly White, La Harpie, Lana Cotta, Malawitte, Margarette, and Sublyme.
The ten drag race queens are all competing for the title of France’s Next Drag Superstar and follow in the footsteps of previous queens like Paloma, Keiona, Le Filip, and All Stars winner Mami Watta.
Deadline
|
posted 6/16/2026 |
 |
Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Here's to Old Friends" |
- Marc Summers to host Robin Russo, Harvey in 40th anniversary Double Dare reunion in Philly (NickAlive)
- A show based on Paul O'Grady's life is coming to Leicester next year (BBC News)
- "The Traitors" is coming to the West End (PA Media)
- NBCUniversal merges units under Beatrice Springborn (Deadline)
|
posted 6/16/2023 |
 |
 
Fox/Roku
Fox to Buy Roku
Broadcaster to Pay $22 Billion for Streamer
From the Futon Critic
|
Fox Corporation (Nasdaq: FOXA, FOX) ("FOX" or the "Company") and Roku, Inc. (Nasdaq: ROKU) ("Roku") today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which FOX will acquire Roku for $160.00 per share in a combination of cash and FOX Class A common stock, valuing Roku at approximately $22 billion in enterprise value.
The transaction combines FOX's leading sports, news and entertainment content and the Tubi service, with Roku's leading connected TV platform, The Roku Channel, first-party data and direct relationship with more than 100 million global streaming households.
Together, FOX and Roku will create a scaled next-generation media and technology company positioned at the intersection of two of the most important forces reshaping video consumption: the enduring primacy of live sports and news, and the continued rise of streaming.
FOX and Roku are committed to continuing to operate Roku as an open, partner-friendly platform and to the continued ubiquitous distribution of FOX content.
On a pro forma basis, the combined company will become the third-largest player in U.S. television by share of viewing, with an attractive mix of FOX's sports, news, and entertainment content, alongside streaming services Tubi and The Roku Channel. That distribution and engagement scale spans every major viewing environment - broadcast, cable, local and streaming - creating broad and diversified reach that benefits viewers, partners and advertisers.
Lachlan K. Murdoch, Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Fox Corporation, said: "This is a defining moment for FOX, and a natural extension of the deliberate and focused strategy we have been executing for nearly a decade. In 2019, we reoriented the company around live news and sports. In 2020, we acquired Tubi and under our stewardship it has become one of the most successful businesses in streaming. Today, we take the next step: bringing together the most valuable live content portfolio in video consumption with the preeminent streaming platform through which America watches it. This combination will transform the scope of our company into high-growth verticals and yield a step change in our overall growth profile. And we are executing this acquisition from a position of financial strength - maintaining our investment grade balance sheet while providing our shareholders with an uninterrupted return of capital program in the form of share buybacks and dividends. Roku pioneered streaming TV and scaled it into a leading CTV platform. Together, we intend to lead its next chapter."
Anthony Wood, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Roku, said: "Over the past two decades, we've built Roku into the leading TV streaming platform, reaching more than 100 million households globally and reshaping how people discover and enjoy entertainment. I'm incredibly proud of what our team has built, and the combination with FOX is an extraordinary opportunity to accelerate our vision, scale faster and innovate more aggressively for viewers, partners and advertisers. That's why our Board of Directors unanimously determined after concluding its strategic review process that this transaction offers a significant premium to Roku shareholders while also providing them with the opportunity to participate in the compelling future upside of the combined company. I couldn't be more excited about what we'll accomplish together."
The Futon Critic
Deadline
The Wrap
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
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posted 6/15/2026 |
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Going Global
Buzzr to Air Foreign Versions of Game Shows Starting July 8
From Facebook |
Buzzr, the Fremantle- & Fox-owned home of classic game shows, is adding a new block of global game shows.
According to a reel on Facebook, the initial offering - to start July 6 - will include Small Talk & Going for Gold from the UK and Family Feud Canada.
Small Talk, which originally aired on BBC1 from 1994 to 1996, features three players trying to predict the outcomes of questions posted by host Ronnie Corbett to a panel of 9 school-aged children. Produced by Grundy, it launched a short-lived American version starring Wil Shriner in 1996 on the Family Channel (now Freeform).
Going for Gold, which aired for 11 seasons between 1987 and 2009 on BBC1 and Five, featured contestants from across Europe competing in a series of fast‑paced general‑knowledge rounds to advance through the week and ultimately reach the finals. Its signature format featured seven international players, a repechage system that let eliminated contestants return the next day, and a mix of buzzer rounds and head‑to‑head play.
Family Feud Canada is, of course, the Canadian version of the long-running American format. Hosted by Gerry Dee, it will enter its seventh season on CBC this fall.
Facebook |
posted 6/15/2026 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "A Whole Lotta Love (and a Crossover)" |
- FIRST LOOKS: Love Is Blind Argentina season 2 (Netflix, June 28) (The Futon Critic) & Love Is Blind UK: Aftrer the Altar (Netflix, July 12) (The Futon Critic)
- How did Jeff Probst pull off the MrBeast coin flip? (The Wrap)
- Ron Perlman is a game changer (Variety)
- Exatlon host Frederik Oldenburg brings some World Cup competition to Love Island USA (Deadline)
- MrBeast: I just pulled 500 million subscribers! (The Wrap)
- Tyra Banks sues Netflix for "false and defamatory" portrayal (The Wrap)
- Big Brother's Jimmy Heagerty engaged to boyfriend (Reality TV World)
- Lindsay Arnold dancing with her third baby (Reality TV World)
- Taylor Frankie Paul is "emotionally numb" (Reality TV World)
- "Fergus", Alan's groundskeeper on "The Traitors", got the chop (BlueSky @JohnR73)
- Pat Sajak is keeping busy two years after his retirement (Entertainment Weekly)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Taylor Hicks (TV Insider)
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posted 6/15/2023 |
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TCA Awards: And the Nominees Are....
HBO Max Leads with 30 Nominations
From Deadline |
Gay ice hockey romance series Heated Rivalry, corporate drama Industry and horror comedy Widow’s Bay lead the 42nd Annual TCA Awards nominations with five each, the Television Critics Association announced Friday.
They’re followed by Hacks, The Pitt and Pluribus with 4 each and The Comeback, Margo’s Got Money Troubles and Shrinking with 3 each.
HBO Max leads the pack with 30 nominations, followed by Apple TV with 20 and Netflix with 14.
Heated Rivalry, which recently received a record-breaking 16 Canadian Screen Awards, along with a Peabody, a GLAAD Award and TV Academy Honors Award in the U.S., the breakout series is not eligible to compete at the TV Academy-administered Emmy Awards. Heated Rivalry is produced by Toronto-based Accent Aigu Entertainment for Crave and distributed by Canadian conglom Bell Media’s Sphere Abacus with no U.S. ownership, so it did not meet the Emmys’ foreign production eligibility criteria.
The 2026 TCA Awards honor standout series and stars from the 2025-2026 television season. Winners will be announced later this summer across TCA’s social media.
TCA also announced it is expanding its categories to 14 with the additions of Outstanding Achievement in Animation—recognizing the best in new or returning animated series—and Outstanding Achievement in International Series, recognizing the best overall series produced by a country outside the United States where the predominant language spoken on screen is not English.
The Simpsons, South Park, and Invincible are among the nominees for the Outstanding Achievement in Animation award, and Outstanding International Series nominees include Squid Game, The Boyfriend and The House of the Spirits. In late-night, John Oliver, Jimmy Kimmel, and Seth Meyers will face off in the Outstanding Achievement in Variety, Talk, or Sketch category.
Below is the list of 2026 Television Critics Association nominees (game show related entries are in italics)...
Outstanding Achievement in News and Information
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“60 Minutes” — CBS (2012 Winner)
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“The American Revolution” — PBS
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“CBS This Morning” — CBS
- “Disneyland Handcrafted” — Disney+
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“Frontline” — PBS (Eight-time Winner in Category)
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“Have I Got News For You” — CNN
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“Marty, Life Is Short” — Netflix
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“Mr. Scorsese” — Apple TV.
Outstanding Achievement in Reality
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“Couples Therapy” — Showtime/Paramount+ (2021 Winner)
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“Finding Mr. Christmas” — Hallmark
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“The Great British Baking Show” — Netflix
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“Love on the Spectrum” — Netflix
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“RuPaul’s Drag Race” — MTV (2014 Winner)
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“Survivor” — CBS
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“Top Chef” — Bravo
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“The Traitors” — Peacock (2024, 2025 Winner)
Outstanding International Series – New Category
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“The Boyfriend” — Netflix
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“Crime Scene Zero” — Netflix
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“Drops of God” — Apple TV
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“The House of the Spirits” — Prime Video
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“Last Samurai Standing” — Netflix
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“Squid Game” — Netflix
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
Decider
|
posted 6/12/2026 |
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NBC News Today
GENE SHALIT: 1926-2026
Movie Critic Played Games
From Deadline |
Gene Shalit, the longtime film critic for Today, known for his quirky puns and signature walrus mustache, has died. He was 100.
His family tells NBC News in a statement that Shalit passed away peacefully on Friday “after 100 years of an amazing life.”
Shalit began his long career at The Today Show in 1970, where he began part-time and became a contributor three years later.
Known for his frequent use of puns and his comical “absent-minded professor” appearance, which included a handlebar mustache, fuzzy hair, large glasses and colorful bow ties, Shalit became one of the most recognizable faces on television.
During his four-decade tenure at Today as film and book critic, Shalit reviewed thousands of films, many of which were generally positive assessments, which frequently drew criticism from his peers for his lack of rigor, evidenced in parodies by rival film critics such as Siskel & Ebert.
His review of the 1980 horror film The Shining is considered by many to be his most notable. Veering away from the consensus, he panned the film shortly after its release, criticizing it for lacking the depth and scariness expected from a major Stephen King adaptation and failing to live up to its hype.
Shalit announced that he would leave The Today Show after 40 years, effective Nov. 11, 2010. He was quoted at the time as saying “it’s enough already” about his retirement.
Born March 25, 1926 in New York City to parents of Jewish descent, Shalit and his mother briefly moved later that year to Newark, New Jersey, before the family permanently relocated to Morristown, New Jersey, in 1932.
He discovered his passion for writing while attending Morristown High School, where he penned a humor column for the student newspaper, a style which eventually morphed into his pun-heavy, comedic styling that would define his career in later years.
Prior to his long stint on Today, Shalit began writing for print publications in the 1960s, such as Look magazine, a 12-year stint at Ladies’ Home Journal, as well as Cosmopolitan, TV Guide, Seventeen, Glamour, McCall’s and The New York Times.
Over the years, Shalit became synonymous with pop culture. He guest-starred as the voice, and was portrayed in the form of a fish food critic named ‘Gene Scallop’ in the SpongeBob SquarePants episode ‘The Krusty Sponge’. He also was parodied in several episodes of Family Guy, including ‘Family Guy Viewer Mail #1’, ‘Brian Sings and Swings’, ‘The Book of Joe’ and ‘Big Man on Hippocampus’, although he was not a voice actor for the series.
Shalit also voiced a character inspired by himself in three episodes of the animated series The Critic. Additionally, he was portrayed several times on Second City Television by cast member Eugene Levy.
In game shows, Shalit featured on episodes of What's My Line?, Jeopardy!, To Tell the Truth, and Hollywood Squares.
Shalit turned 100 on March 25, 2026, a milestone that was commemorated on Today in a special segment, in which Al Roker sent birthday wishes using a personalized Smucker’s jar, a reference to Shalit’s association with the brand through earlier promotions. Shalit was surrounded by his family for the occasion and said he looked forward to watching his favorite baseball team, the New York Mets.
TV Line
TV Insider
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
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posted 6/5/2026 |
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Getty
RONNIE SCHELL: 1931-2026
"Gomer Pyle" Actor Played Games
From Deadline |
Ronnie Schell, a prolific TV character actor perhaps best known for his portrayal of the amiable Pvt. Duke Slater, pal of Jim Nabors’ hayseed Gomer Pyle on the ’60s sitcom of that name, died of natural causes today at UCLA Hospital in Los Angeles. He was 94. His death was announced by family.
Born Ronald Ralph Schell on December 23, 1931, in Richmond, California, Schell began his show business career while a senior at San Francisco State University when he auditioned at the city’s famed Purple Onion nightclub as a stand-up comedian.
Signed for a five month stint, Schell, after graduation, began playing other clubs in the area, including North Beach’s Hungry I, Bimbo’s 365 Club and Fack’s 11 Jazz Club. He would later play some of the most prestigious hotels and casinos in Las Vegas, where he performed occasionally until his death.
The first of nearly 150 TV credits was an appearance on the Groucho Marx game show You Bet Your Life, and while still playing supper clubs in New York City, Chicago and around the country, Schell found his signature role playing the friendly Duke from 1964-1969 on Gomer Pyle: USMC, the hit spinoff from The Andy Griffith Show starring Nabors as the former Mayberry resident who bumbles his way through a stint in the Marines. As Duke, Schell provided the small-town Gomer with a somewhat more worldly city boy pal.
Other roles soon came, including a recurring character on Marlo Thomas’ That Girl as the title character’s always striving agent Harvey Peck. In 1967 he co-starred with Joby Baker on the one-season sitcom Good Morning World as a morning drive radio disc jockey duo. The series also featured a young Goldie Hawn.
Other credits from the era include appearances on Love, American Style, The Patty Duke Show, Arnie, The New Dick Van Dyke Show, The Girl With Something Extra and many others. He worked steadily throughout the ’70s (Sanford & Son, The Dukes Of Hazzard, Charlie’s Angels, One Day At A Time, Mork & Mindy), the ’80s (The Love Boat, Too Close For Comfort, Sledge Hammer!, She’s The Sheriff) and beyond. His more recent appearances as a guest performer were on General Hospital, Yes, Dear and Disney’s Phil of the Future.
Schell appeared on numerous game shows including Oh My Word, The Cross-Wits, Dance Fever, and Beat the Clock.
Schell also appeared in more than 24 films including Disney’s Gus, The Shaggy D.A., and The Devil and Max Devlin, and Carl Reiner’s Fatal Instinct. He provided voices on such animated projects as Jetsons: The Movie and Rover Dangerfield as well as TV series including Battle of the Planets, Shirt Tales, Smurfs, Goober and the Ghost Chasers, and many more. He also appeared with Tim Conway in the video feature Dorf Goes Fishing.
Schell acted in many TV and radio commercials, and was the spokesman for San Francisco’s BART. He landed his first national CLIO award for his Kemp’s Ice Cream commercial, and in 2002 received the first California Standup Comedy Legend Award. He was also inducted into San Francisco State’s Hall of Fame.
Recently he starred in the 2019 Off Broadway musical comedy revue Don’t Leave it All to You Children!
Schell is survived by wife Janet, sons Gregory and Christian, and granddaughter Chiara.
USA Today
TV Insider
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
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posted 6/5/2026 |
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Avalon/Channel 4
Going Right Into the Next One
Matt Lucas, Richard Ayoade Among Comics Tapped for Season 22
From the London Standard
|
Matt Lucas and Richard Ayoade are the among latest comedians to compete on Taskmaster.
The pair will be joined on the upcoming 22nd season by Chloe Petts, Isy Suttie and Nina Conti. Channel 4 teased that the comics have “willingly submitted themselves to the toughest physical and mental examination on television”.
It added: “Like so many before them, they all believe they can impress the Taskmaster, but only one can take home the glory.”
The group will be put through their paces by Greg Davies and his assistant Alex Horne who will “score and mark with the utmost scrutiny to determine who will emerge victorious” and eventually hold the trophy and be named a Taskmaster Champion.
Lucas is best known for his work with David Walliams on the BBC sketch comedy series Little Britain and Come Fly With Me. He has also appeared in Doctor Who, Paddington, Wonka and Gladiator II.
Ayoade played socially awkward IT technician Maurice Moss in Channel 4 sitcom The IT Crowd from 2006 until 2013.
Petts has supported Ed Gamble on tour and appeared on House Of Games, Have I Got News For You and Celebrity Mastermind.
Suttie played Dobby in Peep Show while Conti was the director of comedy feature Sunlight.
The most recent season of Taskmaster featured Amy Gledhill, Armando Iannucci, Joanna Page, Joel Dommett and Kumail Nanjiani.
London Standard
Wales Online
Radio Times
AV Club
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posted 6/12/2026 |
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ITV Tips Its Hand
"Tipping Point" to Return
From TV Zone |
Tipping Point is set to return to the studio later this year to record a new batch of episodes for broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX.
Tipping Point, the quiz in which contestants answer questions to win turns on an arcade-style machine, is hosted by Ben Shephard has been a staple of ITV's afternoon schedule since it launched in 2012.
Dropping tokens down a choice of four chutes, the contestants hope to knock piles of them off a moving shelf - and the more they collect, the greater the prize fund. The player who has won the least amount is then eliminated, and the last one standing competes for a £10,000 jackpot.
Previous episodes of Tipping Point are available now on ITVX.
TV Zone
Wales Online
Liverpool Echo
|
posted 6/12/2026 |
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Anil Kapoor Joins "The 1% Club"
Indian Version to Air on Star Plus
From India Today |
India Today has exclusively learnt that actor Anil Kapoor is all set to return to the small screen as the host of Star Plus' upcoming reality show. The game show is the Indian adaptation of the globally successful British format The 1% Club.
Produced by Endemol Shine India, the show is expected to be one of the broadcaster's biggest reality launches in recent years. Sources close to the development reveal that Kapoor is currently shooting for the first promotional campaign, which is expected to be unveiled soon.
"The team wanted a host who could bring both class and mass appeal to the format. Since The 1% Club is a quiz-based game show that also requires a fun and engaging personality, they explored multiple options before deciding on Anil Kapoor," a source shared.
India Today
Mid-Day
India Today
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posted 6/12/2026 |
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Sony Pictures TV/ABC
Celeb Wheel to Stream Season 6 Extras
Season 6b Episodes to Run Starting June 12
From Deadline
|
Celebrity Wheel Of Fortune will be airing its seventh season on ABC’s linear schedule this fall.
But fans of the game show will be pleased to hear that Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White will also be hosting more episodes exclusively on streaming. Deadline understands that ten new episodes of the show will drop on Disney’s two streaming platforms on Friday, June 12.
These episodes, which will see a raft of celebrity guests spinning the wheel for a chance to win up to $1M for charity, will also get a second run on ABC at some stage.
It’s not entirely clear why Disney made the decision to launch a number of streaming exclusive episodes of the long-running series, which was previously hosted by Pat Sajak. Disney previously moved Dancing with the Stars exclusively to Disney+ for Season 31, but this is the first time that one of its unscripted shows has had original episodes airing on linear and streaming. Hulu previously had a number of exclusive episodes of Family Guy that did not air on Fox but that show is also produced by Disney’s 20th Television Animation.
Celebrity Wheel of Fortune is produced by Sony Pictures Television with Bellamie Blackstone as executive producer.
Celebrity guests appearing on the exclusive streaming episodes include
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Los Angeles Dodgers’ Freddie Freeman, Kiké Hernández and Miguel Rojas
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Michael Urie, Yvone Orji and Hasan Minhaj
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Sarah Chalke, Nat Faxon and Joel Kim Booster
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New Girl stars Hannah Simone, Lamorne Morris and Jake Johnson
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Andrea Savage, Brian Austin Green and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward
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Jamie Lynn Sigler, Dan Bucatinsky and WWE Hall of Famer Nikki Bella
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Vanessa Lachey, Adam Conover and Simon Rex
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Kelly McCreary, Billy Gardell and Mary Elizabeth Ellis
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Top Chef host Kristen Kish, rapper and chef Action Bronson and Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Rashid Shaheed
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Jordin Sparks, Scott Auckerman and Brett Gelman.
Deadline
TV Insider
KABC-TV Los Angeles
|
posted 6/11/2026 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Roll Up" |
- LIST ABUSE: Television's most lucrative TV shows according to... (Radio Times)
- Shannon Fairweather gets engaged (Reality TV World)
- Sean Reifel can rejoin the police after being booted off Love Island... but... (TMZ)
- Love Island USA app usage up 350 percent when it crashed (The Hollywood Reporter)
- Michelle Visage reveals the secret of winning "Drag Race" (Variety)
- MrBeast got his fair share of stories on season 2 (Deadline)
- Jinkx Monsoon to lead in "Oh, Mary!" on the West End (Playbill)
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posted 6/11/2023 |
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More on "Destination X" Season 2
Catch It on NBC in 2027
From the Futon Critic |
NBC's travel competition series "Destination X" returns for a sophomore season with an all-new lineup of contestants boarding the bus. The roster is inclusive of fan-favorite Bravolebs, Bombshells and reality competition superstars.
The contestants participating in Season 2 are:
· Dan Gheesling, 42 | Dearborn, MI (The Traitors, Big Brother)
· Wendell Holland, 42 | Philadelphia, PA (Survivor)
· Kaylor Martin, 24 | Connellsville, PA (Love Island USA, Love Island: Beyond the Villa)
· Tiffany Mitchell, 45 | Detroit, MI (The Traitors, Big Brother, The Challenge)
· Aesha Scott, 34 | Tauranga, New Zealand (Below Deck Mediterranean, Below Deck Down Under)
· Nic Vansteenberghe, 25 | Jacksonville, FL (Love Island USA)
· Will Anderson, 27 | St. Louis, MO
· Lauren Barnwell, 21 | San Francisco, CA
· Amun Cosme, 34 | Warner Robins, GA
· Lacy Dollar, 47 | Munford, AL
· Matthew Gaston, 30 | San Antonio, TX
· Dalen Michaels, 24 | Boca Raton, FL
· Sasha Sloan, 29 | Salt Lake City, UT
"Destination X" was the #1 new show of Summer 2025 and reached more than 20 million viewers across all platforms. It also stands as NBC's top alternative series launch on Peacock.
Based on the award-winning Belgian format, the series was created by Geronimo and is distributed globally by Be-Entertainment. "Destination X" for NBC is produced by Twofour, part of ITV Studios, and Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group. Andy Cadman, Sophie Alcock, Darren Brown, Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Emanuel Vanderjeudg executive produce alongside Twofour's Dan Adamson and Shireen Abbott.
The Futon Critic
Reality Blurred
Reality Tea
TV Insider
Deadline
|
posted 6/10/2026 |
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Spicks & Specks & a Renewal
ABC Confirms New Season to Arrive in July
From Rolling Stone |
Spicks and Specks is coming back.
The ABC has today (June 10th) confirmed a brand-new season of the beloved music quiz show will premiere on July 8th. Returning to its familiar Wednesday night slot, the latest run reunites longtime hosts Adam Hills, Myf Warhurst, and Alan Brough, who will once again put Australia’s music knowledge to the test while tackling a fresh round of absurd challenges and musical mysteries.
Viewers can expect the trio to investigate questions ranging from whether music can be made using hospital equipment to imagining what the classic aria “Nessun Dorma” might sound like if it were inspired by a butt-scooting dog. The new season will also delve into the story behind what exactly happened when Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber spent time together in Japan.
Helping navigate the chaos is a stacked lineup of Australian music talent, including Amy Shark, Ruel, Rhonda Burchmore, Casey Donovan, Dami Im, Chris Cheney, Kate Miller-Heidke, Katie Noonan, and Caleb Harper.
The series will also welcome comedians and entertainers including Zoë Coombs Marr, Tommy Little, Denise Scott, Noah Szto, and Frank Woodley.
Rolling Stone
Variety
|
posted 6/10/2026 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Going Hollywood" |
- "Taskmaster" invited to the Hollywood Bowl (Deadline)
- Cirie Fields responds to Rob Mariano's "excuses" and "justification" (People)
- Katie Thurston's latest update: "No evidence of disease!" (Reality TV World)
- CFTC asking for comments on whether prediction markets should include game shows, reality show competitions, or pageants (The hollywood Reporter)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Kristen Kish (Variety)
|
posted 6/10/2023 |
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Fremantle/ABC
More on SFG 2026 Edition
Lineups Released for Feud, Whammies Unleashed for PYL
From the Hollywood Reporter
|
Survey says… this season of Celebrity Family Feud contestants is stacked! Season 12 will feature American Idol alums, Olympic athletes, and more stars.
Contestants for the new season, with the tagline "Laugh your X off" in key art, include...
· Team AFC Champions (ay Lewis Jr., Terrell Suggs, Hines Ward, Melvin Blount and Rodney Harrison) vs. Team NFC Champions (Michael Singletary, Isaac Bruce, Landon Dickerson, Amani Toomer and Milton Williams)
· Team USA Women's Hockey ( Laila Edwards, Hilary Knight, Hannah Bilka, Cayla Barnes and Caroline Harvey) vs Team USA Men's Hockey (Griffin LaMarre, Jack Wallace, Declan Farmer, Connor Hellebuyck and Dylan Larkin)
· "American Idol" Men's Team (David Archuleta, Clay Aiken, Ruben Studdard, Jamal Roberts and David Cook) vs. "American Idol" Women's Team (Kellie Pickler, Lauren Spencer Smith, Abi Carter, Maddie Poppe and Pia Toscano)
· Julie Bowen vs. Yvette Nicole Brown
· Chris O'Donnell vs. Wayne Brady
· Nicole Byer vs. Margaret Cho
· Dave Portnoy and Barstool Sports vs. Cooper Flagg
· Steve Aoki vs. Joel Kim Booster
· 2 Chainz vs. Eric André
· Zac Brown and Kendra Scott vs. Mickey Guyton
· Sheila E. vs. En Vogue
· Kathy Hilton vs. Da Brat
· Bow Wow vs. Rickey Smiley and his morning show family
· Lisa Lisa vs. Taylor Dayne
The new season will premiere on July 9 at 8p.m. on ABC. It will then air on Thursdays through the rest of the season. Press Your Luck will air immediately after.
The Futon Critic
Yardbarker
|
posted 6/9/2026 |
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NBC Tuesday Is THE Night of the Summer
Record Gains for AGT, Password
From the Wrap |
“America’s Got Talent” and “Password” kicked off to strong ratings starts on NBC and Peacock, with both unscripted shows seeing double-digit ratings gains.
The “America’s Got Talent” Season 21 premiere, which saw Howie Mandel, Mel B, Sofía Vergara and Simon Cowell return as judges, scored 6.2 million total viewers across NBC and Peacock, according to live-plus-three-day Nielsen figures.
Viewership in the 18-49 demo was up 20% as compared to the season premiere, with the episode ranking as No. 1 season premiere for the series in the 18-49 demo in 3 years.
Likewise, the season premiere of “Password,” which returned for its third installment with host Keke Palmer and resident player Jimmy Fallon at the helm, scored 3.5 million total viewers across NBC and Peacock. The season premiere soared 15% in the 18-49 demo over the Season 2 summer premiere in 2024.
On Peacock alone, the “America’s Got Talent” Season 21 premiere ranks as the show’s No. 1 episode to date, per live-plus-three-day numbers, as does the “Password” Season 3 premiere compared to the show’s past episodes.
Additionally, as “America’s Got Talent” and “Password” debuted their new seasons on Tuesday, June 2, the series ranked as the No. 1 and No. 2 entertainment programs of the night on linear, respectively.
The Wrap
|
posted 6/9/2026 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "A Bombshell Has Entered Her Ex's Baby Mama's House... Allegedly" |
- Why is Huda Mustafa (allegedly) sneaking into Nicole Olivera's apartment? (Reality Tea)
- Funny AF finalist Caitlin Peluffo has a special on YouTube (Deadline)
- #TIL Survivor, Love Island tape in the same location (TV Insider)
|
posted 6/9/2023 |
 |

NPR
From NPR & WBEZ Chicago, ... It's Alzo Slade
Actor/Comedian Becomes New Judge/Scorekeeper/Voice for "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!"
From NPR
|
Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me! is thrilled to announce that Alzo Slade will be our next judge and scorekeeper.
Listeners already know Alzo from his frequent appearances as a panelist and occasional guest judge and scorekeeper. On this weekend's show in Austin, Texas, he officially takes on the role full time, succeeding iconic broadcaster Bill Kurtis, who retired at the end of May.
Says Slade: "Joining Wait Wait…Don't Tell Me! as co-host, judge and scorekeeper feels equal parts honor and elaborate hoax or clerical error. Every time I've been on the show I'm reminded it somehow makes the news feel intelligent, human and just unhinged enough to survive the week. And much love and respect to Bill Kurtis. This guy is amazing! Stepping into anything connected to that legendary voice is a bit like following a jazz legend at an open mic."
Slade is only the third judge and scorekeeper in the 29-year history of the show. NPR legend Carl Kasell created the role in 1998 and was succeeded by Kurtis in 2015. Like his predecessors, Slade is an award-winning journalist (a Peabody and three Emmys) but unlike his predecessors, he's a stand up comic, worked as a concert photographer for Prince, won the Mr. Prairie View A&M pageant, and created Grits and Biscuits, a Southern hip-hop dance party that tours the country. Most importantly, Alzo has a deeply resonant voice that warms up your radio.
Wait Wait host Peter Sagal says, "If Bill Kurtis has the voice of the Dad you always wished you had, Alzo's is the voice of the friend you always wanted. He's funny, he's kind, he's ridiculously smart, and knows just how to cut you down to size when you need it — or at least, when I need it."
NPR
|
posted 6/8/2026 |
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Meet the UK Islanders
George Knight Breaks Silence About Leaving the Villa
From Deadline |
George Knight, a contestant on Love Island UK Season 13, is opening up about his abrupt exit from the dating series.
The Islander came in as a bombshell on Day 1 but left the Mallorca-set villa after only a few days on the show.
“Family comes first, always,” Knight wrote on Instagram. “Leaving the @loveisland Villa was a decision made in order to be with my family. Out of respect for them, I’d prefer not to go into any further detail.”
He continued, “Thank you to everyone who has reached out with kind messages and support! It genuinely means a lot.”
Knight came in as a bombshell alongside Yasmin. They were both greeted by host Maya Jama outside the villa, who explained that they would be part of a twist. Both bombshells would spend the day with the Islanders, and after 24 hours, would pick one of them to dump from the villa. The decision seemed to weigh heavily on both bombshells, but Knight seemed to take it even harder as he delivered the news to his fellow Islanders.
ITV, which produces the series, has not commented on the reason Knight left the show, and the Islander preferred not to go into details about his exit.
Deadline
Deadline
The Futon Critic
The Hollywood Reporter
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
|
posted 6/1/2026 |
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"Mafia" Gets Gamified
Sam Altman, Founders Fund Launch Game Show
From TechCrunch |
Have you ever had the desire to see Sam Altman and Palmer Luckey square off over a moderately suspenseful card game? If so, you are in luck.
Silicon Valley’s leaders are rushing to embrace the power of media for the purposes of marketing and political capital. Now, in a sign of the times, Founders Fund, the venture capital firm co-founded by Peter Thiel, has launched its own game show.
“MAFIA the GAME,” will apparently be an ongoing thing, where prominent tech luminaries get together and face off over a game of cards (the show is named after the party-game favorite).
The spectacle is moderated by Pirate Wires editor Mike Solana (who is also the chief marketing officer at Founders Fund). The debut episode includes a who’s who of players — Sam Altman; Palmer Luckey; Bryan Johnson, the famed biohacker who will (according to him) live forever; and Moxie Marlinspike, the founder of encrypted chat app Signal.
TechCrunch
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posted 6/8/2026 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "The People's Governor....s Ball" |
- "The Voice" season 30 winner will perform at the Governors Ball in 2027 (Variety)
- For the second time in three years, Victoria Groce is the Queen of Quiz (WorldQuizzing.com)
- Savannah Guthrie still cries every morning on the way to work while her mother is missing (Variety)
- Zach Shallcross, Kaity Biggar close on their house (Reality TV World)
- Ken McNickle shares cancer diagnosis, warns that cancer chose the wrong one on the wrong day (People)
- Hannah Brown talks about a uterine septum procedure that didn't go so well (Reality TV World)
- Jim Birge, creator of Long Beach Jeopardy! students tournament, dies after battling pancreatic cancer (KABC-TV Los Angeles)
- CASTING COUCH: Fear Factor: House of Fear season 2 (Casting Crane)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Jeff Probst (The WRap)
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posted 6/1/2023 |
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Back to the Shops!
Freeform Renews "That Thrifting Show"
From Deadline |
That Thrifting Show with Lara Spencer has been renewed for a second season on Hulu and Freeform.
The unscripted competition series, from executive producer and host Spencer, will return in 2027. Season 1, which premiered in March, is currently streaming.
In the competition series, vintage design expert Spencer presents two designer duos with identical rooms. With just 48 hours and a strict budget, generally totaling around $2,000, the teams must hunt through vintage and thrift stores to design their way to beautiful, layered, finished rooms. It’s a stylish and sustainable race against the clock.
Design experts Robert Hartwell, Preston Konrad and Dani Klarić serve as judges.
The series is produced for ABC News Studios by Butternut, a division of Wheelhouse Entertainment, and Envisionary Productions. Lara Spencer serves as executive producer, alongside Courtney White and Cheryl Wayne for Butternut, Jon Rosen for Envisionary Productions, and senior executive producer David Sloan and Melia Patria for ABC News Studios.
Deadline
The Futon Critic
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posted 6/5/2026 |
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BBC
ANTHONY HEAD: 1954-2026
"Buffy", "Ted Lasso" Actor Played Games
From TV Line |
"Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Ted Lasso" star Anthony Stewart Head has died at the age of 72, reports BBC.
"He passed away peacefully of complications due to pneumonia, surrounded by his family," his daughters Emily Head and Daisy Head told the publication.
The women added: "It has been, and forever will be, an honor and a privilege to be his daughters, and to have witnessed firsthand the impact both he and his work have had on so many."
Emily and Daisy also said they knew "how dearly he will be missed by friends, colleagues and fans of the show he was in," adding that he "loved his job very much" and "always considered himself incredibly lucky."
Head played Rupert Giles, Buffy Summers' Watcher and father figure for seven seasons of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." The actor reprised the role in Audible's 2023 audio series "Slayers: A Buffyverse Story" alongside his former co-stars James Marsters, Charisma Carpenter, Amber Benson, Juliet Landau, Emma Caulfield Ford, and more.
On Apple TV's "Ted Lasso," he played Rupert Mannion, the former owner of AFC Richmond and ex-husband to Rebecca Welton (played by Hannah Waddingham). He recurred and guest-starred for Seasons 1 and 2, and became a series regular by Season 3.
From 2019-2022, he played Bill in four episodes of "Motherland" alongside Anna Maxwell Martin and Diane Morgan. His other TV credits include "Bridgerton," "Jack Ryan," "Doctor Who," "Drunk History," "Galavant," "Dominion," and "Warehouse 13." He also narrated Seasons 3 and 4 of the docuseries "Doctor Who Confidential."
In game shows, Head appeared on episodes of "Hollywood Squares" and "All Star Mr & Mrs".
On the film side of things, Head starred in "The Iron Lady," "Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters," and "Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance," among others. He also held a lengthy stage resume, including playing Dr. Frank-N-Furter in a 1990 West End production of "The Rocky Horror Show."
Other stage credits include "Chess," "Rope," "Six Degrees of Separation," "Julius Caesar," "Henry V," and "The Heiress."
TV Line
BBC
Deadline
The New York Times
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posted 6/5/2026 |
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Studio Lambert/Peacock
Critics Choice Real TV Awards: And the Winners Were...
"The Traitors" Cleans Up.... Again.
From Deadline
|
The Critics Choice Association got down to its real nitty gritty today, revealing the winners of its eighth annual Real TV Awards.
Peacock’s adventures in treachery The Traitors was the top dog, scoring five prizes including Best Competition Series and Best Host for Alan Cumming. The Traitors winner Rob Rausch and contestant Lisa Rinna were named the respective Male and Female Star of the Year, and show’s five triumphs were enough to put Peacock atop the leader board among platforms.
Netflix was second with four wins including two for Love on the Spectrum, which was the only other multiple champ, following up last year’s victories for Best Unstructured Series and Best Relationship Show.
Other top winners included such stalwart unscripted fare as ABC’s Dancing with the Stars and Shark Tank, MTV’s RuPaul’s Drag Race and the syndicated version of Jeopardy!
The awards celebrate excellence in nonfiction, unscripted and reality programming across broadcast, cable and streaming platforms. Here are the winners of the 2026 Critics Choice Real TV Awards:
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Best Competition Series: The Traitors (Peacock)
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Best Competition Series: Talent/Variety: Dancing with the Stars (ABC)
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Best Unstructured Series Love on the Spectrum (Netflix)
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Best Structured Series: (tie) Couples Therapy (Paramount+ Premium), Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives (Food Network)
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Best Culinary Show: (tie) The Great British Baking Show (Netflix), Top Chef (Bravo)
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Best Game Show: Jeopardy! (Syndicated)
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Best Travel/Adventure Show: Tucci In Italy (National Geographic)
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Best Business Show Shark Tank (ABC)
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Best Animal/Nature Show: Secrets of the Bees (National Geographic)
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Best Crime/Justice Show: Trust Me: The False Prophet (Netflix)
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Best Sports Show: 30 for 30 (ESPN)
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Best Sports Show: Talk/Analysis:
Inside the NBA (ESPN/ABC)
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Best Relationship Show: Love on the Spectrum (Netflix)
- Best Lifestyle Show: Home/Garden: Ugliest House in America (HGTV)
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Best Lifestyle Show: Fashion/Beauty: RuPaul’s Drag Race (MTV)
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Best Limited Series: Mr. Scorsese (Apple TV)
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Best Ensemble Cast In An Unscripted Series: The Traitors (Peacock)
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Best Show Host: Alan Cumming – The Traitors (Peacock)
- Male Star of the Year: Rob Rausch, The Traitors (Peacock)
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Female Star of the Year Lisa Rinna, The Traitors (Peacock)
Deadline
WTVD Durham/Raleigh/Fayetteville
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
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posted 6/4/2026 |
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Talk About Expecting the Unexpected...
CTV, Crave Pick Up Big Brother USA, Option for Canadian Reboot
From Bell Media |
Bell Media announced today that, following a deal with Banijay Rights, the global distribution arm of media and entertainment powerhouse Banijay Entertainment, it will bring future seasons of BIG BROTHER USA to Canadian audiences beginning Summer 2027. With the acquisition of the US series, Bell Media also announced it has ordered a new season of BIG BROTHER CANADA for Crave and CTV.
From Entourage, the team behind French-language Québécois series, BIG BROTHER CÉLÉBRITÉS, and produced in association with Crave and CTV, BIG BROTHER CANADA is set to begin production Spring 2027 in Montréal. Canadian TV personality Andrea Bain, co-host of CTV’s THE SOCIAL, is confirmed as the host for the new season, with casting details to be announced at a later date.
“BIG BROTHER is one of the most iconic and beloved formats around the world and we are thrilled to have it take up residency at Bell Media,” said Justin Stockman, VP, Global Content, Bell Media. “Further strengthening our alliance with our production partners at Entourage and distribution partner at Banijay Rights, we look forward to delivering Canadian audiences more of the eventful and unforgettable competitive social gameplay they love with a new season of BIG BROTHER CANADA.”
“BIG BROTHER is a global phenomenon that continues to embed deep roots with local audiences. Continuing our long-standing partnership with Bell Media, we’re thrilled to bring back this renowned superbrand to Canada which will be a brilliant way to showcase the country’s culture and personality,” added Jane Rimer, SVP Canada, Banijay Rights, who negotiated the agreement.
With the order of BIG BROTHER CANADA, Bell Media also acquires the Canadian series’ back catalogue, with 12 seasons to be available to stream on Crave, joining the extensive collection of French-language series, BIG BROTHER CÉLÉBRITÉS. The French-language series has established itself as a fan-favourite since its debut in 2021, following a deal with Banijay Rights, spawning yearly specials and a successful spin-off. Season 6 of BIG BROTHER CÉLÉBRITÉS on Noovo was the #1 original reality series of Winter 2026 and was the most-streamed show in French on Crave in the same period, amassing nearly 4.7 million views on Crave and Noovo.ca combined.
Bell Media
Entertainment Weekly
Reality Tea
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posted 6/4/2026 |
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Food Network's July
"Food Truck Race" Headlines Offerings
From the Futon Critic |
The BBQ charcoals will be glowing, engines will be revving, and the drama will be scorching this July on Food Network where new and returning series will combine for the network's hottest summer yet. Guy' Grocery Games features a new Global Games tournament while new series Kitchen Chaos will pull back the curtain on the unpredictable world of food to reveal some of the most outlandish happenings and viral moments that must be seen to be believed. Then, host and judge, Andrew Zimmern will helm an elite panel of judges in Pitmasters, a punishing new around-the-clock BBQ competition where teams will battle to earn up to $50,000 in prize money. Restaurant Impossible: Last Call will follow acclaimed chef Aarón Sánchez and dynamic Canadian restaurateur Jen Agg as they lead the way to help struggling restaurants across North America. Over the road competition, The Great Food Truck Race will return led by host Tyler Florence with a sweet and savory twist that will play out across the Great Smoky Mountains. Then, later in July, the high-stakes, sneak-attack restaurant rescue, Kitchen Undercover led by chef Antonia Lofaso and sous chef Nestor Milian will get to the root of a restaurant's problems and try to turn things around before it's too late. With even more fresh content coming later this summer on linear and YouTube, Food Network will keep its viewers fed all summer long.
"Food Network is expanding its summer slate with bold new originals and content designed to drive audience engagement," said Betsy Ayala, President, Food Network. "Paired with fresh takes on proven favorites, the lineup offers something for every viewer."
Athletes aren't the only ones competing in epic international games this year. On Wednesday, July 8 at 9 p.m. ET/PT host Guy Fieri invites eight all-star masters of world cuisines to compete in the new five-part tournament, Guy's Grocery Games: Global Games, for a chance to win the trophy and a $50,000 grand prize. Fans can follow all the action and share which games are their favorite using #GroceryGames.
Next, Pitmasters premiering Monday, July 13 at 9 p.m. ET/PT is a raw, relentless, real-world BBQ competition unlike anything ever attempted on Food Network. A non-stop week-long battle set deep in the wilderness where teams of the most notable pitmasters will push the boundaries of what BBQ can be as they compete over live fire to prove they are the best of the best. They will be cooking from sunrise to sunset to sunrise again, fighting for survival and their share of up to $50,000 in prize money. Teams must manage fire, fatigue, and challenges within challenges to impress an elite panel of judges. Andrew Zimmern, Jess Pryles, Moe Cason, and Ernest Servantes use their vast BBQ knowledge to crown one team the Pitmasters Champion. Viewers can join the social conversation and share their takes on the hottest barbecue trends using #FNPitmasters.
The Great Food Truck Race will kick off a new season premiering Sunday, July 26 at 9 p.m. ET/PT, and this time around, it will be a battle of savory and sweet. With four trucks that specialize in savory dishes and four sweet-themed trucks, the eight competing teams each represent a dynamic mix of flavors, strategies and culinary creativity in their quest for the win. Host Tyler Florence will lead the route starting in Nashville and through the Great Smoky Mountains, stopping in cities with vibrant food scenes - all while adding unexpected twists and turns from the very first mile. Every week, the teams must prove their cooking expertise, marketing savvy and selling skills in themed challenges to beat their rivals - and for the first time, the bottom two teams each week will go head to head in a taste redemption battle to see who earns the right to stay and who heads home. The season will culminate in an action-packed finale from the legendary Churchill Downs in Louisville, where only one truck will be awarded a life-changing $50,000 grand prize. Fans can get to know the competing teams and relive the most dramatic moments of the season using #GreatFoodTruckRace.
The Futon Critic
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posted 6/4/2026 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Love Lost" |
- Vasana Montgomery apologizes for using THAT word (Deadline)
- George Knight quits Love Island UK citing "private reasons" (Reality Tea)
- A former "Love Island" contestant, whose identity is being withheld pending the outcome of a criminal investigation, was arrested AGAIN for stalking, obstruction, coercive control, criminal damage, assault, threats of revenge corn, and 15 articles of scumbag (The Sun)
- MrBeast has some "crazy ideas" if Prime wants to make "Beast Games" into a movie (Variety)
- Jimmy Kimmel defends Scott Pelley over his firing (Variety)
- Anne Hegerty reveals why "The Chase" hasn't filmed in a year (1News)
- Michelle Visage wants to get Drag Race back into the Emmy limelight, a RuPaul biopic (The Hollywood Reporter)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Matt Iseman & Akbar Gbajabiamila (TV Insider)
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posted 6/1/2023 |
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Sony Pictures TV/CBS Media Ventures
Back to the Wheel
Graham Norton's Version to Return for Season 4
From the Liverpool Echo
|
An ITV program lauded as the "greatest game show on TV" appears set to make a comeback for a fourth series.
Wheel of Fortune, a massive hit throughout the 1980s and 1990s, was revived in 2024 with Graham Norton at the helm, and the reboot has now completed three series.
TVZone has revealed that there is plenty more to come, with the show returning on ITV for a fourth series "with even more excitement, laughter, and big money prizes".
While no broadcast date has been confirmed, the website states that applications are open for those who fancy their chances at competing for the jackpot on the beloved game show.
Wheel of Fortune challenges contestants to solve word puzzles while spinning a giant wheel to determine their cash winnings and prizes, reports the Mirror.
The Liverpool Echo
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posted 6/3/2026 |
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Fox
Fox Slots More of the Summer
Beat Shazam to Return After World Cup Coverage
From various sources
|
FOX today announced additional Summer 2026 premiere dates, including the season premieres of Kitchen Nightmares with Gordon Ramsay and Beat Shazam hosted by Jamie Foxx.
The hit musical game show Beat Shazam returns Tuesday, July 28 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. Hosted and executive-produced by award-winning actor, singer and comedian Jamie Foxx, who is joined by his daughter, producer and activist Corinne Foxx as co-host and deejay, Beat Shazam is an interactive game show that pits teams of two against the clock and each other, as they attempt to identify the biggest hit songs of all time. In the end, the team with the most money banked will outlast the competition and go against Shazam, the world's most popular song identification app, for the chance to win $1 million dollars. Over the course of its seven previous seasons, the show has given away more than $10 million dollars. In Season Eight, Beat Shazam will celebrate its 100th episode milestone and will feature special themed episodes throughout the season including ladies night, teams of NFL fans, heroes, college students, teachers, best friends and couples - all battling it out to win the prize of a lifetime. Beat Shazam was created by Jeff Apploff and Wes Kauble, and is produced by Apploff Entertainment, MGM Alternative Television and BiggerStage in association with Shazam. Apploff, Mark Burnett, Barry Poznick, Lauren Zalaznick, Pat Kiely, Seán O'Riordan and Jamie Foxx serve as executive producers.
As previously announced, the series debut of Nation's Dumbest, a new celebrity competition series that flips the traditional format on its head - because this is the only show where winning is the last thing anyone wants, premieres Wednesday, July 15 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT). Taking attendance as host is acclaimed comedian Jack Whitehall, who presides over the chaos as contestants relive the highs and humiliations of school life - from pop quizzes and report cards to recess and parent teacher conferences - all while trying to stay out of last place. Nation's Dumbest channels celebrities' inner school spirit as they head back to summer school, facing a mix of brain-teasing tasks, fast-paced physical challenges, and long-buried classroom knowledge. Each week, the 'smartest' celebrity graduates, narrowing the field until a high-stakes final exam determines who will be left standing with the distinction no one wants - the title of The Nation's Dumbest. Enrolled in this season's all-star class are television personality Hilaria Baldwin, actress and model Carmen Electra, actor Anthony Michael Hall, actor Jon Heder, musician and actor Chase Hudson, rapper and actor Ice-T, singer-songwriter Elle King, former NFL quarterback Matt Leinart, television personality and physician Dr. Drew Pinsky, stunt performer and comedian Steve-O, singer and performer JoJo Siwa, and entrepreneur and former presidential candidate Andrew Yang. Based on a format from Montreaux Films, Nation's Dumbest is executive produced by Ryan O'Dowd, Krystal Whitney and Jenny Groom for BBC Studios. James Breen and Michael O'Sullivan also executive produce, with Breen serving as showrunner.
Iconic culinary series MasterChef continues Season 16 with all-new episodes beginning Wednesday, July 15 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT), celebrating international cuisine with award-winning chef and executive producer Gordon Ramsay as host and judge, alongside renowned restaurateur Joe Bastianich and acclaimed chef and entrepreneur Tiffany Derry.
Additionally, all new episodes of fan favorite games shows The 1% Club (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT), hosted by Joel McHale and The Quiz with Balls (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) hosted by Jay Pharoah resume beginning Monday, July 13.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
TV Line
Variety
TV Insider
TV Insider
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posted 6/3/2026 |
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Unboxed
Netflix Reportedly Shelves "What's in the Box"
From Parade |
While unscripted shows have historically performed well on Netflix, there are some that end up going under the radar. One of those is What’s in the Box?, a game show hosted by Neil Patrick Harris.
Across six episodes, contestants had the chance to compete in trivia rounds to win prizes. They didn’t know what would be in each of the boxes they opened, with pairs having to face off in games of strategy and alliance-switching. All six episodes dropped on December 17, 2025, and if you feel like you missed it, you’re not alone.
Like many Netflix shows, it flew under the radar, and so, it’s not surprising to hear that Netflix has opted to cancel the game show.
Rather than make a big announcement about the cancellation, fans learned via Matt’s Inside Line. A reader asked Matt Webb Mitvoch about the chances of a second season, and he did some digging with his contacts.
Netflix has confirmed that there are “no plans” to create any more episodes. In other words, it’s been unofficially canceled.
Parade
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posted 6/2/2026 |
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Ball Province
Banijay Deals Game to Crave
From Deadline |
Banijay Rights has struck its first international deal for buzzy physical comedy gameshow Let’s Play Ball.
Heated Rivalry streamer Crave has picked up the format for French Canada and will make a bumper 10 x 60-minute version of the show that sees celebrities push giant balls across various terrains.
Produced by Sphere Media, the Canadian version will travel across Montreal, from narrow city streets and open countryside to flowing rivers.
Let’s Play Ball, a former Deadline Global Breakout, started life on YouTube before being scaled up by EndemolShine Nederland and local broadcaster SBS6. ITV is developing a version in the UK with Last One Laughing UK producers Initial and Zeppotron, while in the U.S. Bunim/Murray Productions is taking the show to market.
Banijay Rights Canada SVP Jane Rimer said: “Let’s Play Ball is a bold, highly visual. format with universal appeal, combining larger-than-life, laugh-out-loud comedy with a healthy dose of competition. Securing our first international deal for Let’s Play Ball with Bell Media here in Quebec is a fantastic milestone, and we cannot wait to partner with Bell Media again to bring this uniquely entertaining format to life for French-Canadian audiences.”
Deadline
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posted 6/2/2026 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Badges? He Don't Need No Stinking Badges!" |
- Sean Reifel gets the business from his former police chief, mayor (WHTM Harrisburg)
- Michelle Visage reacts to rumors that RuPaul is prepping to hang it up (E!)
- Whitney Leavitt teases new project after "Mormon Wives" exit (TV Insider)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Chris D'angelo (TV Insider)
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posted 6/2/2023 |
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Jeopardy! Today Arrives on Peacock
Sony Pictures Teams with Lil Snack to Launch
From GamesBeat |
NBCUniversal, Sony Pictures Television (SPT) and Lil Snack today announced the launch of Jeopardy! Today on the Peacock mobile app, a new daily interactive game exclusively on to Peacock subscribers.
The game brings one of the most beloved and enduring franchises in television history into the daily gaming format — offering fans a fresh, bite-sized Jeopardy! experience every single day, right inside the Peacock app.
Jeopardy! Today is the latest addition to Peacock’s growing suite of companion games and interactive experiences, which have become a meaningful driver of daily engagement for Peacock’s subscriber base – 10% of mobile users have played a game on Peacock.
Jeopardy! Today gives players a fresh board of nine clues each day, with new content tied to pop culture and NBCUniversal programming on Peacock. Players can win by completing a tic-tac-toe — horizontally, vertically, or diagonally — or, for the die-hard fans, by completing the full board. The distinctly modern yet familiar format is designed to be accessible to casual players while giving superfans a worthy daily challenge that rewards deep knowledge of the Jeopardy! canon and introduces a layer of strategic choice that goes beyond simple trivia recall.
All content for Jeopardy! Today is licensed material specifically for the game, ensuring that it carries the same intellectual rigor, wit and authenticity that has made the franchise a cultural institution for over four decades. Whether you’re a first-time player or a Jeopardy! devotee, every clue delivers the unmistakable feel of the show.
“These companion games and interactive experiences on Peacock have proven to be a powerful way to give fans more of what they want – expanding the content they love into something they can engage with every day,” said John Jelley, Senior Vice President, Product and User Experience, Peacock. “Games like Jeopardy! Today extend the magic of these iconic franchises by inviting fans to actively participate and deepen their connection to their favorite shows. This also delivers on our broader vision to build Peacock into a destination where entertainment isn’t just watched, but experienced.”
“Expanding a franchise as iconic as Jeopardy! into new formats requires thoughtful stewardship of the brand and a deep understanding of what the fans value,” said Sally Umsted, SVP, Brand Partnerships, Licensing, and Experiences, Sony Pictures Television, Game Shows division, in a statement. “With Jeopardy! Today, we saw an opportunity to extend the fandom into a new daily game that feels modern, interactive, and native to how audiences now engage with entertainment, while still preserving the unmistakable Jeopardy! experience. Peacock has an unwavering commitment to innovation and creates meaningful engagement outside of the series, making it the perfect platform for a daily interactive experience.”
“At Lil Snack, our mission is to bring play to the world,” said Eric Berman, CEO of Lil Snack, in a statement. “By reimagining iconic franchises like Jeopardy! into something bite-sized, fresh, and worth coming back to every single day. We built Jeopardy! Today to surprise and delight audiences with a reason to come back to Peacock daily —to play the game in the same destination where they already watch the show.”
GamesBeat
Cordcutters News
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posted 6/1/2026 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "Happy National Game Show Day!" |
- KSI going outside, leaving the Sidemen (Deadline)
- Jimmy Kimmel wins a Peabody, gives an NSFW acceptance speech (Variety)
- Katie Thurston's liver "isn't ok", prompting "likely another biopsy" (Reality TV World)
- Caesars Entertainment, home of the "Challenge" of the same name, sold to Fertitta for $6 billion, or 1.5 billion blackjack bets (NBC News)
- Clarke Carraway signs with Kensington Grey (Deadline)
- Would Billy Eichner return to the street? (Deadline)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with MrBeast & Michael H. Miller (Deadline)
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posted 6/1/2023 |
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Spyglass Media/Disney
22 in 22: Last Designer Standing
Catch It on Freeform, Hulu, Disney+ July 9
From the Futon Critic
|
Project Runway unveils its lineup of 22 designers for its biggest season to date. Season 22 debuts in the evening on July 9 on Freeform and will stream shortly after on Hulu and Disney+, followed by weekly airings.
For the first time, 22 designers from different backgrounds - the most in "Project Runway" history - will compete for a chance to take their careers to the next level. Heidi Klum, Law Roach and Nina Garcia return as judges, with Christian Siriano returning as mentor.
Designers featured in this season include returning designer from Season 21 Joseph McRae, along with Aaron Potts, Andrea Moore, Andriy Volkov, Anna Molinari, Bao Tranchi, Bi Pham, Bryan Barrientos, Chloe Magleby, Dani Bennett, Elizabeth Shevelev, Jeffrey Kelly Abess, Jennifer Daniels, Jude Mikulencak, Omolara "LRÉ the Artist" Odupita, Naheim Muhammad, Octavius Terry, Plane Jane, R'bonney Nola Gabriel, Robert Crone, Varvara "Bobby" Diakonenkova and Yang Yang Xu.
"Project Runway" is produced by Spyglass Media Group and Alfred Street Industries. Executive producers include Gary Barber and Sean Hoagland for Spyglass and Dan Cutforth, Jane Lipsitz, Nan Strait and Dan Volpe for Alfred Street Industries. Michael Rucker serves as showrunner and executive producer, along with San Heng and Nicole Sorrenti, who executive-produce. Klum, Siriano and Garcia are executive producers, with Roach as co-executive producer.
The Futon Critic
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
Reality Tea
Reality Blurred
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posted 5/28/2026 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Amazing Disgrace" |
|
posted 5/28/2023 |
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Bed Rot... the Game Show
Reality Stars Play for $100,000
From Entertainment Weekly |
You know how there are days when you just don’t want to get out of bed? Now imagine being paid $100,000 to stay in one. But there’s a catch.
The Bed Rot Challenge is a new reality competition web series in which stars from Survivor, The Traitors, Love Island USA, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, The Bachelorette, and Beast Games will attempt to outwit and outlast each other… on a bed. Whoever can stay in bed the longest without coming into contact with the ground — while also surviving elimination challenges — will win $100,000. There will also be contests that enable contestants to win or lose comfort along the way.
The Bed Rot Challenge cast includes a trio of former Survivor contestants: Carolyn Wiger (also of The Traitors), Natalie Anderson (also of The Traitors, The Amazing Race, and The Challenge), and Ben Katzman. They will be joined by Love Island star Vanna Einerson, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Chase McWhorter, Beast Games competitor Zadok Esters, and Aaron Kahng from Taylor Frankie Paul’s unaired season of The Bachelorette. Also competing is bodybuilding YouTuber Luke Yates, and two newcomers hoping to score a cool 100 grand.
The series is hosted by London Lazerson and being produced by Cozy Earth. It will feature six episodes streaming on Cozy Earth’s YouTube channel, with the first installment dropping June 11.
Entertainment Weekly
TV Insider
|
posted 5/27/2026 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Keeping It Cordial" |
- Julie Dowding retires after a decade wtih All3Media (Deadline)
- Love Island USA reminds the Internet that "The villa runs on good vibes" and to "keep it kind, keep it positive". Good freaking luck with that (Deadline)
- Jimmy Kimmel gets emotional during his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony (Variety)
- Riley Green gets welcomed to the world of Voice trash talking from Kelly Clarkson (E! News)
- Kyle Abrams gets married... and gets busy (Reality TV World)
- Joey Graziadei, Kelsey Anderson get engaged... again (Reality TV World)
- Drew Carey is definitely not a fan of Spencer Pratt for mayor (Reality Tea)
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posted 5/27/2023 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Obstacle Courses" |
- Ninja Warrior to be incorporated into the 2028 LA Olympics (The Sporting News)
- Peppermint calls out RuPaul for not calling out the Ellisons (The Wrap)
- Alan Cumming doesn't like what his adoptive home country has become (ITV Press Centre)
- BRUTALLY HONEST REVIEW: Chopped Castaways (Food) (Reality Blurred)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Howie Mandel (CBC)
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posted 5/26/2023 |
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Amazon MGM Studios/CBS
Next Stop: The Open Era
The Next Hurdle... "Prediction Markets"
From the Futon Critic
|
Jeff Probst is slamming prediction market platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket for allowing users to make trades about who won “Survivor” Season 50, saying that the companies are “incentivizing people to lie, cheat and steal to get ahead.”
“They have figured out a way to capitalize on [the show],” he tells Variety. “It doesn’t sit well with me as a human. I get it — they built a great business. They don’t care.”
Aubry Bracco wasn’t officially crowned as the Sole Survivor of “Survivor 50” until the finale on Wednesday night, but many fans were spoiled on her win in advance due to widely circulated reports about her odds on Kalshi and Polymarket. On both platforms, she was forecast to have above an 80% chance of winning before the season even premiered. By the finale, Kalshi’s “Survivor” market had reached a volume of $32.7 million, with Bracco at 97% odds. Moments before the finale debuted on Wednesday night, Kalshi sent out a push notification that read, “Survivor S50 finale TONIGHT. Aubry’s at 97% — is the island already decided?”
Probst learned how much money was in Kalshi’s “Survivor” market, and that they’d sent out the cheeky notification, for the first time while being interviewed by Variety.
“I’m not happy about it,” he said. “I am learning this in real time — this is announced before our finale?”
As reported by Variety, Hollywood executives are concerned that the growing popularity of prediction markets is leading to insider trading and that widespread spoilers will reduce suspense and hurt their shows’ ratings.
But Kalshi is adamant that its ban on insider trading is being enforced effectively and that its “Survivor” market has been thoroughly investigated. Executives at the company believe traders are drawing from public rumors on Reddit and other online communities — and while the anonymous people starting those rumors might be insiders breaking their NDAs, the traders listening to them are still following the law. Therefore, it’s not up to Kalshi to crack down on them.
“Survivor” cast and crew members all sign agreements that prohibit the use of insider knowledge for gambling or any monetary gain, and additional reminders — specifically mentioning Kalshi and Polymarket — were sent out during the release of Season 50. CBS is also incorporating language about prediction markets in “Survivor” contracts moving forward.
But Probst maintains that it’s unfair to put the onus on networks and studios to manage the spread of these spoilers.
“Clearly, if 90% of the people are voting for somebody, there’s a leak. But to look at us, the producers, as though we have a problem, is the mirror pointing in the wrong direction,” he says. “[Prediction market platforms] are the ones with the problem, not us. We went and made our show in a vacuum, and we keep it very tightly contained, but if you are foolish and naive enough to not think that somebody might leak it, that’s your problem.”
He continues: “If the idea is that ‘Survivor’ needs to do a better job of managing our spoilers, you just don’t know anything about humans. That’s ridiculous. You’re telling me there’s a way I can make money by sharing information I have, and I might not ever get caught? Of course, people are going to do that. And if I found out somebody on our show bet on this, they’d be fired.”
In a new statement, Kalshi spokesperson Elisabeth Diana emphasizes the company’s position that prediction markets can be additive to the reality TV experience, creating excitement rather than stifling viewership.
But the company is now taking Probst’s concerns to heart. “If the market volume on ‘Survivor’ is any indication, this isn’t something that’s stopping people from caring about ‘Survivor,'” Diana says. “That being said, we’re looking at adding product features to prevent spoilers.”
The Futon Critic
Variety
Variety
Reality Tea
Variety
The Futon Critic
Reality Blurred
The Wrap
Deadline
Deadline
TV Line
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
CBS News
Variety
Variety
Reality Shrine
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posted 5/23/2026 |
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Happy Friday Lightning Round
... or "Different Approaches" |
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posted 5/23/2023 |
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Meanwhile, in Greece...
"Survivor Greece" Called Due to Injury
From TV Line |
"Survivor Greece" was forced to end early after a contestant sustained major injuries while spearfishing in the Dominican Republic earlier this month.
Following the event, a statement put out by production company AcunMedya revealed that Stavros Floros lost part of his left leg and experienced trauma in his right foot after a boat hit him by accident. The incident took place near Saona Island while Floros was off duty from filming.
"The competent port authorities are investigating the causes of the incident in order to fully determine the circumstances. The contestant remains hospitalized in serious but stable condition and is out of danger," read the AcunMedya statement.
Meanwhile, SKAI Television, the network that airs "Survivor Greece," issued a statement pledging to "contribute in every possible way to [Floros'] treatment, as well as to any hospitalization and rehabilitation care that may be required."
This year's "Survivor Greece" might have ended prematurely, but Stavros Floros has been crowned its undisputed champ. The last episode of the European reality series saw host Giorgos Lianos announce the decision to wrap up the festivities early before praising the injured contestant for his resilience.
"Everyone has been amazed by the courage and strength of a true survivor," Lianos said (via tovima.com). "The winner of this year's 'Survivor' and the €250,000 prize is Stavros, because he is a real survivor, because he truly deserves it, and because it is one of the few things we can do for him."
Lianos added that the health, safety, and well-being of the show's participants come first, hence the decision to conclude the 2026 installment of "Survivor Greece" early. The next season has yet to be formally announced.
TV Line
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
CBS News
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posted 5/21/2026 |
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Rhythm+Flow Heads to Italy
Catch It on Netflix June 22
From the Futon Critic |
RHYTHM + FLOW ITALY, the rap show produced by Fremantle, is back only on Netflix with its third season, every Monday starting June 22.
The new season includes nine episodes, one more than in the previous seasons, and brings an even stronger judging lineup. Joining the now-iconic judges Fabri Fibra, Geolier and Rose Villain is another legend of the scene: Guè officially becomes part of the team to raise the bar even higher and discover the next stars of Italian rap.
The first four episodes - available from Monday, June 22 - introduce a completely new structure: the judges come together for the auditions, launching this year's search for the best emerging rappers through original tracks and freestyle battles. To complete the scouting process, Fabri Fibra, Geolier, Rose Villain and Guè will head to Lugano, Bologna and Milan to discover new talents, joined by some of the leading figures of the urban scene.
Following the final auditions, selected contestants will compete in the next four episodes - available from Monday, June 29 - across a series of escalating challenges, including cypher, a sample-based format, a major new feature of this edition, music videos and featurings. Only the best will make it through to the final on Monday, July 6, where the artists will face off other one last time and just one will win the €100,000 prize.
The third season of RHYTHM + FLOW ITALY, produced by Fremantle Italia, is written by Marco Curti, Matteo Lenardon, Paola Papa and Sonia Soldera, with Alessandra Colombo, Vincenzo Maiorana and Alessandra Tomaselli, and directed by Alessio Muzi.
The first two seasons of RHYTHM + FLOW ITALY have truly made their mark: the original tracks by contestants who reached the final stages of the show (music videos and finale) have reached a total of almost one billion streams across all music and social platforms. These numbers confirm that the show has become one of the most popular showcases for Italian rap, capable of discovering new and promising talents.
The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
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posted 5/21/2026 |
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NASCAR
KYLE BUSCH: 1985-2026
Iconic NASCAR Racer Played Games
From NASCAR |
Kyle Busch, a generational talent who rose to become a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of the sport’s greatest drivers, died Thursday. He was 41.
Busch’s death, which was announced by the Busch family, NASCAR and Richard Childress Racing, marked a sudden, staggering blow to the motorsports community. His team had indicated earlier Thursday that Busch had been hospitalized with a severe illness.
Busch was in his 22nd full-time season in NASCAR’s top division, where he won two Cup Series titles (2015, 2019) and 63 races — a figure that ranks ninth on the circuit’s all-time win list. His numbers across the other two national NASCAR series are record-setting, with 102 victories in what is now called the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and 69 wins in the Craftsman Truck Series.
The Busch family, Richard Childress Racing and NASCAR made the following joint statement:
“On behalf of the Busch family, everyone at Richard Childress Racing and all of NASCAR, we are devastated to announce the sudden and tragic passing of Kyle Busch. “Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch. A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation. He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely skilled and he cared deeply about the sport and fans. Throughout a career that spanned more than two decades, Kyle set records in national series wins, won championships at NASCAR’s highest level and fostered the next generation of drivers as an owner in the Truck Series. His sharp wit and competitive spirit sparked a deep emotional connection with race fans of every age, creating the proud and loyal ‘Rowdy Nation.’ Our thoughts are with Samantha, Brexton and Lennix, Kyle and Samantha’s parents, Kurt and all of Kyle’s family, Richard and Judy Childress, everyone at Richard Childress Racing, his teammates, friends and fans. NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon.
“During this incredibly difficult time, we ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy and continue to keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Further updates will be shared as appropriate.”
Busch drove for three Hall of Fame team owners in Cup, getting his start with Hendrick Motorsports as a heralded rookie in stock-car racing’s big leagues in 2005. He joined Joe Gibbs Racing in 2008, establishing a long-running partnership that made him the face of Toyota’s NASCAR endeavors. He spent the final stages of his career with Childress, arriving in 2023 and taking the reins of the No. 8 Chevrolet.
In game shows, Busch was featured on episodes of Nashville Squares, The $100,000 Pyramid, Sports Jeopardy! & Jeopardy!. Most recently, he participated on NASCAR Week on Wheel of Fortune back in February.
"Ryan, Vanna, and the entire Wheel family is saddened to hear of the passing of Kyle Busch," the show posted on its socials. "We were grateful for the chance to spend time with him during NASCAR Week this year and to witness the kindness and energy he brought to everyone around him. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and the entire racing community."
NASCAR
ESPN
WCNC Charlotte
TV Insider
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posted 5/21/2026 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Thanks, Stephen" |
- CASTING COUCH: The Price Is Right casting team is heading to Rivers Casino Philadelphia (Philly Voice)
- Jimmy Kimmel urges viewers not to watch CBS ever again after tonight (The Hollywood Reporter)
- Billy Eichner wants his "real voice" to be heard in audio memoir (Variety)
- VIDEO WALL: Thigns get heated with Colin Jost on this week's "Hot Ones" (YouTube)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Tristan Williams (TV Insider)
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posted 5/22/2023 |
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BBC
Dancing with the New Stars
Meet the New Hosts of Strictly Come Dancing
From Deadline
|
The BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing has replaced Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly with not two but three hosts.
Love is Blind UK host Emma Willis, professional dancer Johannes Radebe and comedian Josh Widdicombe will take the reins of one of the UK’s biggest entertainment shows. Widdicombe will take over Winkleman’s role in the show’s former “Clauditorium,” while Radebe will act as a roving reporter, the BBC said.
Winkleman and Daly exited in 2025 from the hit show, which has had to grapple with several scandals over the past couple of years.
The past few months have seen many of the UK’s top talents considered for the hot presenter gig and in the end the BBC has opted for a diverse trio. Willis is a presenter who has presided over the likes of Love is Blind UK and Swiped: The School That Banned Smartphones. Radebe has been on Strictly as a professional dancer for years, first on the South African version and then the UK. In 2021, he was partnered with Great British Bake Off winner John Whaite, who became the show’s first male same-sex couple. Widdicombe is a comedian who presents a number of British TV and radio shows.
BBC chief content boss Kate Phillips said the trio’s “chemistry is undeniable.”
“There’s been so much speculation and hype, so I’m relieved we can share the news with the public at last. I’d like to thank all the brilliant people we saw before making this tough decision. But the most beloved ballroom in the UK always leads the way, and in a Strictly first we have chosen three outstanding hosts to take up the mantle.”
The Strictly host job is hugely coveted. Daly and Winkleman had been hosting Strictly since Bruce Forsyth stepped down in 2013, at which point Winkleman, who had already been helming the results show, took over.
Winkleman has been busy since leaving. She hosts two versions of The Traitors per year and has been given her own chatshow by the BBC.
The news comes at a difficult time for the 20-year-old show. In 2024 it was was hit with scandal as two professional dancers exited following allegations of misconduct. The BBC attempted to move on last year but was hit with further scandal when it had to launch an investigation into allegations of drug use on the show.
Produced by BBC Studios, Strictly has aired on the BBC from September to Christmas since 2004. The U.S. version, Dancing with the Stars, has been on TV for 20 years and multiple other versions air around the world.
Deadline
BBC News
Reality Tea
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posted 5/20/2026 |
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NBCUniversal
And America's Most Watched Network This Season is...
NBC Wins the Season with ... a Lot of Sports
From various sources
|
For the first time since 2008, a network other than CBS can claim the title of the most-watched broadcaster in primetime.
NBC will win the 2025-26 season in total viewers — the first time that’s happened since the latter days of Must-See TV.
With the September-to-May TV season coming to a close, NBC will finish with an across-the-board win among all viewers, adults 18-49 and adults 25-54. The victory is thanks in no small part to two-plus weeks in February, when the second most-watched Super Bowl ever and a resurgent Winter Olympics put NBC out of reach of its fellow broadcast networks.
Through May 17, NBC has averaged 5.83 million viewers in primetime this season, up about 14 percent from 2024-25. CBS — which had won every season since 2008-09 in total viewers — is second with 4.63 million (down 19 percent), a little ahead of ABC‘s 4.33 million (up 1 percent). Fox rounds out the big four networks with 3.41 million viewers (down 11 percent). Unless otherwise noted, all figures in this story are Nielsen linear ratings only and don’t include streaming (which would bump up the averages for all four networks by a significant amount).
The total viewer win for the season is NBC’s first since the 2001-02 season, when Friends and ER were two of the top three shows on TV. The network also had the top show this season in Sunday Night Football, which extended its record of consecutive No. 1 finishes to 15 seasons. SNF averaged 21 million viewers on NBC and 23.5 million including streaming on Peacock and other digital platforms.
CBS fell the farthest, partly because of some declines in individual shows. But the network also rested most of its scripted series, including strong performers like Tracker, NCIS and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage, in January and most of February, two of the higher-use TV months of the year.
ABC edged up, and measuring entertainment programming only (i.e., not sports and news), it’s the only network to grow year to year in total viewers.
Fox had some successes with shows like Best Medicine, Doc and Fear Factor: House of Fear; its year-to-year decline is explained mostly by having had the Super Bowl last season and not this season.
NBC also led the key ad-sales demographics of adults 18-49 and 25-54. In the 18-49 demo, it scored a 1.01 rating (equivalent to about 1.37 million viewers in that age range) in primetime for NBC’s first win in that measure since the 2021-22 season (also a Super Bowl/Winter Olympics year). Fox came in second with a 0.64 rating/871,000 viewers, followed by ABC (0.57/776,000) and CBS (0.45/613,000).
Among adults 25-54, NBC posted a 1.32 rating, equivalent to 1.66 million viewers. Fox (0.83/1.04 million) edged ABC (0.77/968,000) for second place, and CBS was fourth at 0.64/804,000.
The Hollywood Reporter
Deadline
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posted 5/20/2026 |
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Alone Goes Global
Catch the New Season on History June 17
From The Futon Critic |
The HISTORY Channel's acclaimed survival series "Alone" returns for season 13 on Wednesday, June 17 at 9/8c and is raising the stakes like never before.
On the heels of the World Cup and for the first time in franchise history, ten skilled survivalists from around the globe will compete in "Alone: World Championship". Participants will be dropped inside Canada's Arctic Circle with just ten survival tools, and enough camera gear to self-document their experiences. As winter tightens its grip, survivalists will battle against punishing weather, relentless isolation, and menacing predators local to the region such as grizzly bears, wolves, and moose. Whoever survives the longest takes home the coveted $500,000 grand prize and will be crowned the first-ever Alone world champion.
This is survival on an international stage, where reputation, legacy, and national pride are on the line. No camera crews. No gimmicks. ALONE is the ultimate test of human will.
This season, survivalists from seven different countries are represented including the United States, Canada, Wales, Australia, Slovenia, Portugal, and New Zealand.
Each week, a new episode will stream on The HISTORY(R) Channel app, history.com, and across major TV providers' VOD platforms the day after it airs on The HISTORY(R) Channel. You can also watch it ad-free by downloading to own wherever you purchase your favorite series.
Follow along on social using: #AloneOnHistory #AloneWorldChampionship
The Futon Critic |
posted 5/20/2026 |
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The 1% Club Heads to South Africa
Afrikaans Version to Air on KykNet
From TVSA |
kykNET's acquired the rights to British game show The 1% Club - titled Die 1% Klub for South Africa where it's going to be played in Afrikaans.
Our edition's being produced by Rapid Blue (Come Dine With Me, SA's Got Talent) and the search is on for contestants who want to be part of it. Quick witted. Creative. Analytical. Puzzle loving. These are the adjectives you'll need to play.
Also: You must be 18 or older, be able to speak Afrikaans and, provide your own transport to the studios which are in Johannesburg.
TVSA
News24
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posted 5/20/2026 |
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More on 100 Cooks
Catch It on Food Network June 7
From the Futon Critic |
Food Network celebrates home cooks this summer with the brand-new series 100 Cooks - the biggest, boldest home cook competition in the network's history. Hosted by actor, television host and former pro football player Terry Crews, the series welcomes 100 of the country's best home cooks to run through an epic seven-week culinary gauntlet where 99 cooks will be eliminated and only one is named America's best home cook and wins as much as $250,000. From firefighters and college students to corporate lawyers and stay-at-home moms and dads, these competitors are from all walks of life and share a passion and talent for food. In each episode, competitors are selected at random by a lottery ball "Cook Mixer" to come to the floor after the "Challenge Mixer" dictates what food-themed battle they will face. Each round is judged by top culinary content creator Nick DiGiovanni and Food Network all-star Alex Guarnaschelli, who will determine who stays in the competition each week and who is sent home. 100 Cooks premieres Sunday, June 7th at 9pm ET/PT on Food Network and streams the next day on HBO Max.
The premiere episode will also be available globally on Nick DiGiovanni's YouTube channel. Following the U.S. launch, 100 Cooks will be localized and roll out in around thirty of WBD's international territories, across networks, discovery+ and HBO Max. "This is the kind of competition I live for - big energy, big stakes and 100 talented home cooks bringing everything they've got," said host Terry Crews. "Every challenge was unpredictable, every dish had a story and the passion in that kitchen blew me away. Seeing their creativity up close was an incredible experience - and an absolute blast!"
The Futon Critic
TV Insider
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posted 5/20/2026 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "The Finish Line" |
- JB Smoove signs first look deal with Fox (Deadline)
- Mike White plugs two Survivor all-stars for the new season of The White Lotus (Deadline)
- Stuart Krasnow wanted Bob Barker to play a cameo on Gameshow Marathon (People)
- Ken Jennings admits to being smitten with Vanna White (Do You Remember)
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posted 5/20/2023 |
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The Chasers Is On
Tom Brady to Plot Celebrity Quiz Show for YouTube
From Variety |
Tom Brady is going social with his next series.
His Shadow Lion production shingle is behind “Chasers,” which it’s dubbing “the world’s first trading-card trivia format.”
Brady will appear in the premiere episode, which launches May 20 on YouTube. Kevin Bonner hosts “Chasers,” which will feature celebrity guests as they aim to identify four cards via insightful questions — and then dive deep into how they’re connected.
Here’s how the digital series is explained: “In each episode, a different celebrity guest attempts to answer trivia questions to identify cards that are in some way related to their lives. Someone from their hometown, a player they share a record with, or maybe just an unknown obsession or skill. Each card starts a new topic of conversation, and correct answers reveals a card to win a guess in the final round.”
This reps Shadow Lion’s first social show. “Chasers” will drop biweekly on YouTube beginning May 20; after its initial premiere, 90-second episode cutdowns will appear on Instagram and TikTok.
Brady noted that the series was inspired in part by his life-long collecting hobby, as well as the growth of his “CardVault by Tom Brady” business.
“My team at Shadow Lion launching ‘Chasers’ is the perfect way to keep the momentum rolling,” Brady said in a statement. “The hobby has so much to offer, and this show meets people where they are. At the end of the day, I just love seeing all my friends working together in the same orbit.”
Brady is an executive producer on “Chasers,” along with Bonner, Gilad Haas and Philip Byron. Ethan Byrne is the director.
Variety
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posted 5/19/2026 |
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This Season's Pointless Friends
Ben Miller Reunites with Alexander Armstrong
From the BBC |
BBC One and BBC iPlayer’s Pointless has unveiled a brand-new line-up of celebrity co-hosts who will be joining host Alexander Armstrong on upcoming episodes of the Remarkable Entertainment produced (a Banijay UK company) show for BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Some of the famous faces set to appear on the show include Susan Wokoma, Gok Wan, Nish Kumar, Lucy Porter, Michael Ball, Ben Miller, Sara Pascoe and Clare Balding.
Alexander Armstrong, Host of Pointless, says: “We are back and I am raring to go alongside a raft of absolutely joyous co-hosts to deliver more random and fascinating facts. I've just got to remind myself which sovereign states are members of the UN in their own right.”
Comedian and actor, Ben Miller, said: “Armstrong and Miller are BACK... on Pointless!!! Xander finally succumbed to my pleading emails and I am so excited. Not only to work with my old mate again but also to dazzle viewers with my extensive general knowledge (discretely delivered to my screen by the show’s producers). I can't wait to get started and Pointless-the-heck out of this.”
Actress and writer, Susan Wokoma, says: “Not being funny but this was the role I was meant to play - sat down, sounding intelligent all whilst basking in the glory of Xander Armstrong? Sign me up! Very, very excited to be keeping warm the Pointless co-pilot seat.”
Singer, presenter and actor, Michael Ball, added: “What a joy to get to sit in the hot seat with the pointless team. I love the show, love Xander, love the fact that this time I’ll know all the answers and I promise to try to not be too judgmental if people say daft things…I’ll try, but I can’t promise anything.”
Comedian and actress, Sara Pascoe, added: “I’m coming to that co-host seat to learn. I’ll swot up all the facts and then next series I’ll enter as a competitor, win the show and steal Xander’s job. It’s a whole game plan.”
Broadcaster Clare Balding said: “I’ve competed on the show many times, and I always walk around asking myself what the pointless answer to any question in life could be. To be sat in the co-host chair where I have all the pointless answers in front of me, is wonderful. It’s such a warm, friendly environment and I’m looking forward to working with the lovely Alexander Armstrong.”
Caroline O’Neill, Commissioning Executive for BBC Daytime comments: “Pointless yet again delivers another great cohort of hosts set to join Alexander as they question another group of contestants searching for the Pointless answer. It’s the hottest seat on the telly and we can’t wait for audiences to enjoy.”
Laura Turner, Executive Producer, Remarkable Entertainment, says: “It's so exciting to see the Pointless family continue to grow with even more marvellous faces gracing the co-host desk. The questions are polled, the contestants are booked and the trophies are gleaming. We can't wait to get filming.” Pointless broadcasts on BBC One at 5.15pm.
BBC News
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posted 5/19/2026 |
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Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Too Good at Goodbyes" |
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posted 5/18/2023 |
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Sony Pictures TV/CBS Media Ventures
America's Game Celebrates America's Semiquincentennial
Catch It This June
From Variety
|
“Wheel of Fortune” is showing its patriotic side this summer with two weeks of USA-themed episodes in honor of America’s 250th birthday sponsored by Coca-Cola.
Titled “Drink In America Presented by Coca-Cola,” the themed episodes of the syndicated “Wheel of Fortune” will air nationwide the week of June 1 and again, “with added elements,” the week of June 29.
The special editions of the Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White-hosted game show will invite “viewers to ‘drink in’ the spirit, sights, and stories of America through the lens of one of television’s most beloved shows.”
Per “Wheel of Fortune” producer Sony Pictures Television, the episodes will feature custom Coca-Cola integrations, like a branded wheel wedge that offers “iconic trips to beloved American cities,” including Los Angeles for July 4th celebrations, New York City for an exclusive Times Square ball drop, or Seacrest’s hometown (and Coca-Cola headquarters) in Atlanta.
At-home viewers can enter the “Drink in America Giveaway” for a chance to win a trip to an American National Park or to Universal Studios.
“’Wheel of Fortune’ has long been a staple of American viewing, and collaborating with Coca-Cola, one of the most globally recognizable brands, feels like a natural way to celebrate America250,” Sony Pictures Television game shows president Suzanne Prete. “Both brands have been part of the cultural fabric for generations, creating shared moments of joy and connection, and we’re honored to bring that spirit to life in a way that celebrates what makes this country so special.”
“Few brands are as deeply woven into American culture as Coca-Cola and ‘Wheel of Fortune,'” Coca-Cola trademark category vice president Stacy Jackson said. “As a signature partner of America250, we’re proud to celebrate this once in a generation moment by teaming up with ‘Wheel of Fortune’ to invite fans across the country to drink in the stories, places, and spirit that make America special. This collaboration is a celebration of that shared legacy—bringing America250 to life through pop culture, iconic destinations, and moments worth savoring together.”
The Coca-Cola and America250 integration for “Wheel of Fortune” was led by Sally Umsted, senior vice president of brand partnerships, licensing and experiences for Sony Pictures Television, game shows division.
Variety
TV Insider
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posted 5/18/2026 |
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Getty Images
TOM KANE: 1962-2026
Voice Actor Voiced AFV
From Deadline |
Tom Kane, the prolific voice actor whose credits include Yoda on Star Wars: The Clone Wars, The Powerpuff Girls, Archer and scores of video games, died today, May 18, in Kansas City after having suffered a stroke more than five years ago. He was 64.
His death was announced on social media by Galactic Productions, his talent agency.
“Today we say goodbye to Tom Kane — a legendary voice actor whose work shaped the childhoods and imaginations of millions around the world,” the statement reads. “From his unforgettable performances in Star Wars to countless animated series, documentaries, and games, Tom brought wisdom, strength, humor, and heart to every role he touched. His voice became part of our lives, our memories, and the stories we carry with us.”
Kane, who retired in 2021, provided voice performances for numerous series and episodes going back to the early 1990s when his early credits included such animated programs as The Legend of Prince Valiant, Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Team Knight Rider, The Angry Beavers and many others.
In game shows, Kane was a sub-announcer on America's Funniest Home Videos, often substituting for Ernie Anderson.
His signature roles were in the Star Wars animated universe, including C-3PO, various soldiers and imperial officers and, most notably, Yoda, a character he first played in a 1999 video game called Star Wars – Yoda’s Challenge. He’d return to the character in various video games as well as the TV series Star Wars: Clone Wars.
Born Thomas Kane Roberts on April 15, 1962, in Overland Park, Kansas, Kane would become one of the most prolific voice actors of his generation. In addition to the Star Wars projects, he voiced various characters on Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends, Kim Possible and The Wild Thornberrys, among many others.
For Marvel he voiced the characters Magneto and Ultron.
His most recent credits were in the 2023 video game Harry Potter: Magic Awakened and, also that year, the YouTube series Presidents Discord Server.
Kane is survived by wife Cindy and nine children..
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
The Wrap
TV Insider
Variety
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posted 5/18/2026 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "Don't Overthink It" |
- Chris Hardwick reunites with AMC Networks for "I Think You're Overthinking It" podcast (The Futon Critic)
- #ICYMI: A hair-raising joke swap (Deadline)
- Jeremy Clarkson's heart episode is front and center of "Clarkson's Farm" season 5 (Deadline)
- #ICYMI #2: Win Jay Leno's car (TV Insider)
- Witney Carson dancing with Spider-Man? She hopes... (People)
- Ilona Maher wants to be "The Bachelorette".... or go dancing, whatever. (Reality Tea)
- Danny Dyer compares "Nobody's Fool" to "The Traitors" (Digital Spy)
- A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Julianne Hough & Bruno Tonioli (Deadline)
- #ICYMI #3: And the winner of Eurovision 2026 is.... (Deadline)
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posted 5/18/2023 |
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School's Out for Summer!
TPIR Plots Its School's Out Episode June 8
From Variety |
School’s out for the summer, and that means students have more time on their hands to do fun activities like being on The Price Is Right.
The game show is set to host a kick-off-to-summer episode where the entire audience is filled with students. Monday, June 8, although not the first day of Summer, will be the “School’s Out” episode, according to a press release.
The students will kick off vacation in style. Host Drew Carey will welcome the high-energy crowd who will compete in iconic pricing games, such as Punch A Bunch, Hole In One, Money Game, Push Over, and more. They will have the chance to win huge cash prizes, dream vacations, and luxury cars during the one-hour episode to mark the end of school.
TV Insider
Paramount Press Express
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posted 5/15/2026 |
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Physical 100 Arrives in Sweden
Production Begins on Adaptation
From the Futon Critic |
The production of Physical 100: Sweden has just started in Sandviken, Sweden. Today, Netflix unveiled the 100 participants who will go head-to-head in the high-stakes competition.
Physical 100: Sweden brings together some of Sweden's most accomplished athletes, as well as firefighters, construction workers, gym rats, military professionals and celebrities. Amongst the 100 competitors fighting for the top spot are global swimming icons Sarah Sjöström and Therese Alshammar, UFC legend Alexander "The Mauler" Gustafsson, Olympic alpine champion André Myhrer, multitalented artist Daniel Adams-Ray, 7-time parkour World Cup winner Miranda Tibbling, boxing star Mikaela Laurén, elite calisthenics athletes Simon Imhäuser and Malin Migdal Flefil, actor Björn Bengtsson, and influencers Hissy Elhissy and Ludwig Blomqvist.
During the extensive casting process, more than 1,300 people across Sweden either applied or were contacted, resulting in over 450 casting interviews. The selected participants range in age from 20 to 57 and represent a wide array of disciplines - from different styles of Martial arts to swimming, calisthenics, ice hockey and wrestling.
In Physical 100: Sweden, 100 contestants across gender, age, and athletic backgrounds face off in challenges that test strength, endurance, courage, determination, teamwork, focus, and mental resilience. They will push their bodies and minds to the absolute limit to determine who has the most complete physique, with only one winner taking home the grand prize of 1 million SEK ($105,679.09).
Physical 100: Sweden is produced by Banijay Nordic label Meter Entertainment and is currently shooting in Sandviken, Sweden. The reality competition series will have a global premiere on Netflix in 2027.
Building on the Korean original series, the Swedish adaptation joins the expanding franchise, following recent announcements of Physical 100: Italy, Physical 100: Mexico, Physical: Asia and Physical 100: USA.
The Futon Critic
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posted 5/15/2026 |
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Try Guys Phone It In (Not Like That)
More on Season 4
From Variety |
The Try Guys‘ bonkers cooking competition “Phoning It In” has rounded out its slate of judges, cast members and contestants for Season 4. The show premiered its fourth installment on the independent streamer 2nd Try TV on May 6 before it rolls onto YouTube starting May 30.
Chris Ying, Justin Pichetrungsi, Elizabeth Falkner, Jordan Myrick, Jimmy Wong, Jen Yee, Nick Schreiber and Rie McClenny have joined the series as judges. Melissa King and Kat Turner are contestants.
The competition locks elite chefs out of the kitchen, instead forcing them to coach unqualified comedians from afar, guiding them only via telephone to bring their culinary visions to the plate. Previously announced chefs and judges this season include: Kristen Kish, Josh Scherer, Jonny Manganello, Mitzi Reyes and Monique Chan.
The contestants include comedians from the TryCast universe: Ash Perez, Ryan Garcia, Jared Popkin, Kwesi James, Ryann Graham, Joyce Louis-Jean and Rainie Toll. Previously announced contestants include Try Guys Keith Habersberger and Zach Kornfeld, as well as Miles Bonsignore and “Smosh’s” Angela Giarratana.
“We’re making the biggest food competition show on YouTube with the biggest chefs in the world, and it’s been awesome to step our game up every season,” said Kornfeld and Habersberger in a statement.
Variety
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posted 5/15/2026 |
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Happy Friday Lightning Round
... or "Don't Eff with the Teamsters" |
- MrBeast faces standoff with Teamsters over Beast Games season 3 (Deadline)
- Byron Allen says he'll save CBS $150 million (The Wrap)
- WHY THE BLEEP IS THIS NEWS?: Joe Hunter blocks people on SM, putting him in an elite club called EVERYONE. (Reality Tea)
- Cirie Fields announces her retirement from Survivor (Reality Tea)
- Mark Ballas wonders about his future on DWTS (Us Weekly)
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posted 5/15/2023 |
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Back to the Beach
"Battle on the Beach" Returns June 1 to HGTV After Reported Cancellation
From The Futon Critic |
Reports of the demise of "Battle on the Beach" have apparently been exaggerated.
HGTV's epic surfside home renovation competition Battle on the Beach will head to the Grand Strand, South Carolina's hot vacation destination, in its latest seven-episode season premiering Monday, June 1, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. During the series, which attracted 15.5 million viewers across linear and streaming to its last run, HGTV stars Sarah Baeumler (Rock the Block), Mika Kleinschmidt (100 Day Dream Home) and Ty Pennington (Rock the Block) will each mentor a two-person team of promising renovators as they vie to transform lackluster beachfront vacation properties - and the biggest homes in Battle on the Beach history - into stunning waterfront escapes that deliver top reviews and top dollar.
Armed with $100,000, seven weeks and invaluable advice from their respected mentors, the teams will overhaul the dated digs while navigating unprecedented design challenges, including repurposing discarded roadside finds in their homes and swapping partners for the chance at additional prize money. Husband-and-wife renovation duo Tristyn and Kamohai Kalama (Renovation Aloha) will determine which team increases the rental value of each week's revamped space, with the winner given a critical choice: take home $3,000 now or apply $6,000 to the final grand prize. When the stunning renos are complete, the team who clinches the highest peak season rate for their short-term rental will claim a cash prize of at least $50,000, with their mentor boasting ultimate bragging rights.
The Futon Critic
NewsNation
TV Insider
TV Insider
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posted 5/14/2026 |
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Thursday Lightning Round
... or "How Did We Get Here?" |
- AUDIO CLUE: How a Briton created a series in Sweden that captured America for 50 seasons (BBC)
- Nic Vansteeberghe has a lot to say about his romance with Olandria (Reality Tea)
- Newly-minted American Idol Hannah Harper will join her fellow finalists at CMA Fest (TV Insider)
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posted 5/14/2023 |
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Everett Collection
JOHN BARBOUR: 1933-2026
"Godfather of Reality Television" Active on Game Shows
From Deadline |
John Barbour, whose role in creating, producing and co-hosting the 1979-1984 NBC series Real People is recognized as a pioneering effort in the popularity of reality TV, died from natural causes on Sunday, May 10, at his home in Las Vegas. He was 93.
His death was announced by family.
Executive produced by Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In creator George Schlatter, Real People featured a panel of co-hosts, including Barbour, who introduced pre-taped segments about people with odd or unusual hobbies – or just odd and unusual people – and then riffed on the short films.
The popularity of the show and its pliable format would inspire any number of subsequent series, from That’s Incredible! and America’s Funniest Home Videos to MTV’s long-running Ridiculousness.
In addition to Barbour, the panel of hosts included, at one time or another, Sarah Purcell, Byron Allen, Skip Stephenson, Bill Rafferty, Mark Russell, Peter Billingsley, David Ruprecht and Fred Willard.
Born April 24, 1933, in Toronto, Canada, Barbour dropped out of high school at age 15 and moved to the U.S. in the 1950s. He began his show business career as a standup comic, which eventually led to appearances on The Dean Martin Show and The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. He released two comedy albums, It’s Tough To Be White (1965) and I Met A Man I Didn’t Like (1978).
Barbour was the first host of AM Los Angeles, where he won the first of his five Emmy awards. He courted controversy with interviews with anti-Vietnam War guests including Mohammed Ali and Jane Fonda. His additional Emmys came from his years as the critic-at-large on Los Angeles’ KNBC.
He was the pilot host for The Gong Show, and, over the years, made appearances on several television shows, such as Get Smart, Sanford and Son, The Liars Club, CSI, and Breaking Bad.
Barbour wrote, produced, and narrated the documentary film Ernie Kovacs: Television’s Original Genius, and, in 1992, he won the prize for best documentary at the San Sebastian Film Festival for The JFK Assassination: The Jim Garrison Tapes, which profiled New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison and his investigation of the Kennedy murder. In 2017, Barbour wrote and directed the sequel, The American Media and the Second Assassination of John F. Kennedy.
Barbour wrote a 2019 autobiography entitled Your Mother’s Not A Virgin: The Bumpy Life and Times of the Canadian Dropout who Changed the Face of American TV!
He is survived by his wife Sarita and their son Christopher.
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
The Wrap
The Daily Beast
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posted 5/13/2026 |
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Love... Boston Style
New Season of "Love Is Blind" Goes to Boston
From Variety |
Love is wicked blind.
The next season of Netflix‘s hit dating experiment is heading to Boston. The streamer announced the Season 11 renewal of “Love Is Blind” during its upfronts presentation in New York, revealing that the new installment would arrive sometime in fall 2026.
The series, hosted by married couple Vanessa and Nick Lachey, centers on a crop of singles who get to know each other without ever seeing each other’s faces. They go on truly “blind” dates before agreeing to marry someone without ever actually meeting them. Over several weeks, the engaged couples move in together and plan their weddings, figuring out whether their physical connection lives up to the emotional bond they developed in the “pods.” Per the logline, “When their wedding day arrives, will real-world realities and external factors push them apart, or will they marry the person they fell blindly in love with? … This addictive social experiment will uncover whether looks, race, or age do matter — or if love really is blind."
Elsewhere, Love is Blind is coming to Denmark! In this popular social experiment, singles who want to be loved for who they are on the inside will date and get engaged without ever seeing each other - putting the ultimate question to the test: is love truly blind?
Love is Blind: Denmark will be produced by Mastiff DK, with production scheduled to begin this year. The casting is now open and Danish singles eager to take part in the dating experiment are encouraged to apply here.
Love is Blind premiered in the US in 2020 and has since become a global phenomenon. The original series has been adapted in many countries, including Japan, Brazil, UK, Germany, France and Poland among others. Every episode of the European adaptations featuring the pods are filmed in Strängnäs, Sweden. Up until now over 330 hopeful singles have entered the pods in the search of finding love.
The global Netflix premiere of Love is Blind: Denmark is set for 2027.
Variety
Deadline
The Futon Critic
The Daily Beast
The Futon Critic
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posted 5/13/2026 |
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Warner Bros. Discovery
UPFRONTS: Warner Bros. Discovery
IN: 100 Cooks, HIGNFY
From the Futon Critic
|
The US Networks at Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) - which boasts more top-performing cable networks, series and freshman hits than any other portfolio - unveiled its robust content lineup during WBD's 2026 New York Upfront presentation. Claiming five of the top 10 cable networks, 208 million average monthly viewers and nearly 30 percent of primetime cable viewing in the first quarter of 2026, WBD's entertainment brands have primed this year's programming pipeline with over 3,000 premiere hours which encompasses 98 new series and fresh episodes of 127 popular returning titles. The WBD portfolio, including Discovery Channel, Food Network, HGTV, Investigation Discovery, TBS, TNT, TLC, Magnolia Network, Adult Swim, OWN and others, also owns seven of the top 10 unscripted freshman/limited series among Adults 25-54 so far in 2026, with TLC's breakout title Suddenly Amish in the #1 spot.
"Our brands are unstoppable, delivering the most talked about and must-watch unscripted series on TV today," said Channing Dungey, Chairman and CEO of the Warner Bros. Television Group and WBD US Networks. "We have the best creative team in the business and will continue to produce innovative, genre-defining programming that super serves our fans."
CNN announced today that Have I Got News For You has been renewed for a fifth season. The American version of the long-running UK comedy series is hosted by Roy Wood Jr. along with team captains Amber Ruffin and Michael Ian Black. Produced by Hat Trick Productions for CNN Originals, the fifth season of Have I Got News for You premieres Saturday, September 12 at 9pm ET/PT on CNN, and will be available to stream on the CNN app and at CNN.com/Watch the next day.
"We're thrilled to return for season five and continue covering the nation's most important stories, most of which still sound made up," said Wood Jr., Ruffin and Black in a joint statement. Since its debut in 2024, Have I Got News For You has become a staple of CNN's Saturday night lineup, offering audiences a comedic lens on the ever-evolving news cycle. The series blends humor and insight, creating a space where politics, culture and current events collide in unexpected and entertaining ways.
"Season four demonstrated just how strongly this series is resonating with audiences, becoming a standout performer across CNN's platforms and a meaningful part of the weekly conversation online," said Amy Entelis, executive vice president of talent, CNN Originals and creative development for CNN Worldwide. "At a time when people are looking for entertaining ways to engage with the nonstop news cycle, Roy, Amber and Michael continue to deliver something that feels timely and culturally relevant - and we will continue building on that success with a fifth season this fall."
Notable guests from season four of Have I Got News For You included U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, Hasan Minhaj, Andy Richter, Kara Swisher, Ari Shapiro, Larry Wilmore, Gianmarco Soresi, Bomani Jones, Nimesh Patel and more. All episodes of Have I Got News For You are available to stream now on the CNN app. Companion podcast Have I Got News For Your Ears hosted by Michael Ian Black continues to release new episodes every Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available to stream on the @HIGNFYUS official YouTube page. Have I Got News For You is executive produced by Jim Biederman, Jimmy Mulville and Richard Wilson for Hat Trick Productions.
Elsewhere, Food Network announced its biggest home cook competition of all time, 100 Cooks, hosted by actor, television host and former pro football player Terry Crews, and an exciting new no-holds-barred tournament Wildcard Kitchen: High Rollers at Sea;
The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
Variety
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posted 5/13/2026 |
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ITV Reups with "The 1% Club"
Deal Keeps Show on the Air for 3 Years
From Televisual |
ITV has announced a new three-year deal for The 1% Club.
The 1% Club remains the biggest original quiz show in more than a decade. It regularly exceeds 5 million viewers an episode and since launching three years ago, it has been streamed over 60 million times and reached over 43 million viewers.
The 1% Club has also enjoyed major international success, establishing itself as one of the best-selling original British entertainment formats of recent years.
The 1% Club host, Lee Mack says: “I’m delighted that ITV have given us three more series to discover Great British clever clogs. I just told my family how old I would be when these three series are over, but apparently I got it wrong. Which shows you how well I’d do as a contestant.”
ITV’s Director of Factual Entertainment, Sue Murphy, said: “We’re thrilled to be renewing The 1% Club for a further three years. The show has become a huge hit with viewers of all ages. With Lee at the helm as always, we can’t wait to bring more series and specials to the viewers. It’s a brilliant entertainment show with a unique format that viewers love to play along with at home, and its broad appeal makes it a hugely valuable part of our slate on ITV.”
Executive Producers and creators of The 1% Club, Dean Nabarro and Andy Auerbach, said: “It’s a wonderful vote of confidence that ITV have commissioned three more years of the show and we’re delighted that so many more people will now get the chance to join The 1% Club.”
ITV will commission further series and specials of The 1% Club over the next three years, alongside the return of The 1% Club Rollover later this year and The 1% Club Kids Special, due to air later this month.
The series is commissioned for ITV by Director of Factual Entertainment, Sue Murphy. The 1% Club was created by Dean Nabarro and Andy Auerbach, and is a Magnum Media production for ITV.
Televisual
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posted 5/13/2026 |
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Getty Images
REX REED: 1938-2026
Caustic Movie Critic Played Games
From Deadline |
Rex Reed, one of the most widely known, influential and biting film critics of the new wave ushered into prominence by Pauline Kael in the 1960s, died today, May 12, at his home in Manhattan following a short illness. He was 87.
His death was confirmed by longtime friend William Kapfer, who noted that Reed died “surrounded by his closest loved ones.”
Reed, whose stylishly written film reviews, celebrity profiles and interviews with Hollywood and Broadway stars were featured in such publications as The New York Times, GQ, Esquire, Vogue and, most recently, the New York Observer, was a ubiquitous presence on talk shows throughout the 1960s and ’70s, prized by hosts like Johnny Carson and Dick Cavett for his wit and candor.
In a telling sample of his quotes collected for his obituary in The New York Times, Reed could be both worshipful and scathing. In 1968 he said the aging Bette Davis was exciting enough “to make the latest youth idols about as interesting as a withered logarithm.” Broadway’s Gwen Verdon was one of those performers “rare as blue butterflies, who carry around their own lightning.”
Not all of his subjects got off so easy. “If there is anything more excruciating than sitting through a Michelangelo Antonioni film, it’s sitting through a Michelangelo Antonioni interview,” he wrote in 1967. He called Peter Lawford a Rat Pack “court jester” with limited intelligence, and drew the ire of Frank Sinatra when he said daughter Nancy Sinatra looked like a “pizza waitress.” After he wrote that a drunk Ava Gardner quipped about Sinatra’s marriage to Mia Farrow, “Hah! I always knew Frank would end up in bed with a boy,” Gardner called “a son of a bitch is either at your feet or at your throat.”
Reed’s writings were collected in numerous books, including his notoriously titled first, Do You Sleep in the Nude?, the question an example of the kind of query he designed to provoke noteworthy responses from his interview subjects.
Even in the latter part of his career, at the weekly newspaper New York Observer, his writings lost none of their sting, and indeed often seemed like an unappetizing leftover from an era when sour personal swipes were more tolerated.
In games, Reed appeared on episodes of "Hollywood Squares", "To Tell the Truth", "All Star Secrets", "The Gong Show", "You Don't Say!", and "What's My Line?".
He ascribed the Oscar win by deaf Children of a Lesser God actor Marlee Matlin to a “pity vote” and described Melissa McCarthy as “tractor-sized” and a “hippo.”
Reed’s victims relished a chance at payback when the writer tried his hand at acting in the atrocious 1970 film adaptation of Gore Vidal’s novel Myra Breckinridge. He would later appear in better films, but it was Breckinridge – a film that routinely lands on Worst Films Ever lists and was disavowed by Vidal himself – that made headlines. Time magazine wrote at the time that “Myra Breckinridge is about as funny as a child molester. It is an insult to intelligence, an affront to sensibility and an abomination to the eye.”
Both Reed and costar Raquel Welch were pilloried for their performance as the same character before and after what would now be called gender-affirming surgery.
In keeping with his own standards, Reed, too, panned Myra Breckinridge. It was, he wrote, “a train wreck.”
Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter
Forbes
The New York Times
Variety
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posted 5/13/2026 |
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Savannah Bananas
Banana Mirrorball
Jackson Olson Joins "Dancing with the Stars"
From Deadline
|
Dancing with the Stars has added another celebrity contestant to its Season 35 lineup. Jackson Olson, the second baseman for the Savannah Bananas, has joined the competition, Disney announced during its upfront presentation on Tuesday.
Olson is the third contestant to be revealed so far. He joins The Traitors and Love Island breakout Maura Higgins and Summer House favorite Ciara Miller, who the network revealed at Disney’s Get Real unscripted TV event last month.
Per Disney, the rest of the Season 35 celebrities as well as their professional dance partners will be announced on Wednesday, September 2, exclusively on Good Morning America.
There’s no premiere date for Season 35 just yet, but ABC has confirmed the series will return in the fall. It will simulcast live across ABC and Disney+ and stream next-day on Hulu.
In addition to being a second baseman for the Savannah Bananas, Olson is a content creator known for his macro baseball insights and captivating storytelling on family, relationships, food, and the journey of coming-of-age. Whether he’s sharing the joys of eating ballpark food or something over-the-top delicious, the triumphs and tribulations of love and family, or the intricacies of life on and off the field, Jackson Olson invites followers into his world with authenticity and warmth, leaving a lasting impression on all who engage with his content.
Deadline
The Futon Critic
The Wrap
TV Line
Reality TV World
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posted 5/13/2026 |
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Big Re-Break
BBC Two Options Remake with Paddy McGuinness, Stephen Hendry
From RTE |
The hit 90s snooker-themed game show Big Break will return with broadcaster Paddy McGuinness and seven-time world snooker champion Stephen Hendry at the helm.
The popular program will return to BBC Two over two decades after it last aired, with the channel saying it will keep the "spirit of the original show" with a "brand new look and feel".
The revived series will follow three contestants who will be paired up with professional snooker players, straight off the competition circuit, as they battle it out over three rounds in a bid to win a cash prize in a dramatic finale.
McGuinness said: "I am absolutely delighted to be a part of Big Break. "It is one of those shows everyone knows and loves, so to be hosting it alongside legend Stephen Hendry will be something special. Bring it on!"
The game show previously aired on BBC screens between 1991 and 2002 and was hosted by Jim Davidson and the late snooker star John Virgo, who died earlier this year aged 79.
Hendry, who will take over Virgo's role of performing trick shots, is hoping the series can inspire a new generation of snooker players to get into the sport.
He said: "Big Break was a unique mix of trick shots and great entertainment, and I can't wait to be back at the table and bringing this incredible show to a whole new audience - and who knows, we might inspire the next generation of snooker players to get into the sport."
Production for the series will begin shortly for the twenty 30-minute-long episodes, with the series set to air on BBC Two and the BBC iPlayer.
RTE
The Mirror
Fremantle
TV Zone
Radio Times
License Global
C21 Media
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posted 5/13/2026 |
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Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Prize Picks" |
- Sia returns her $100,000 fan favorite award (Variety) PLUS 50 seasons of stories (Variety)
- Travis Kelce & Colin Jost have one thing in common... they're the beta in the couple (The Wrap)
- Nick Cannon drops new docuseries on Netflix (The Futon Critic)
- Whitney, Conner Leavitt launch new production shingle (Reality Tea)
- Maggie Sajak reacts to her boyfriend being cast for "DWTS" (Us Weekly)
- CROWNING MOMENT OF AWESOME: That time Jay Leno donated a $70K Corvette to TPIR (WRCB Chattanooga)
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posted 5/13/2023 |
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Getty Images
The Queen Holds Court
Music Icon/Actress Queen Latifah Joins "The Voice"
From TV Line
|
Forget a swivel chair, the newest coach on the "The Voice" is going to need a swivel throne. Queen Latifah is confirmed to be joining the show for Season 30.
For her inaugural season of "The Voice," Latifah will be joined by returning coaches Kelly Clarkson and Adam Levine, as well as fellow first-timer Riley Green, who recently wrapped a multi-episode arc on CBS' "Yellowstone" spin-off "Marshals."
While most people probably think of Latifah as an actress, she also boasts an impressive career in the music industry. She won a Grammy Award in 1995 for her song "U.N.I.T.Y.," and has amassed six additional Grammy nominations over the years. She was also nominated for an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in the movie-musical "Chicago."
Unlike newcomers Latifah and Green, Clarkson and Levine have a long history with "The Voice." Levine was a mainstay for the show's first 16 seasons before taking a nine-year break, eventually returning for Seasons 27, 29, and now 30. Meanwhile, Clarkson's coaching tenure spanned from Seasons 14 to 21; she later returned for Seasons 29 and now 30.
New episodes of "The Voice" will air Mondays at 8/7c on NBC, leading into the new Peter Krause-led crime drama "Line of Fire." A premiere date has not yet been announced. Read More: https://www.tvline.com/2170763/queen-latifah-the-voice-season-30-coaches-confirmed/
TV Line
The Futon Critic
Reality Tea
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posted 5/12/2026 |
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Going Up
Richard Osman to Host "Golden Elevators" for ITV
From ATV Today |
ITV is heading back into the gameshow arena with The Golden Elevators, a new high-concept quiz format hosted by Richard Osman — and there’s little doubt the broadcaster will be hoping this one reaches the penthouse rather than stalling between floors.
The series, produced by Studio Lambert and Talpa Studios, turns deceptively simple A-or-B questions into a strategic social experiment, with contestants forced to decide not only what answer is right, but who around them can actually be trusted.
Set inside a towering skyscraper, ten players begin in the lobby and must choose between two elevators for every question. One lift contains the correct answer and moves contestants closer to the jackpot. The other sends everyone inside crashing back to the lobby and out of the game entirely. The twist is where the format may find its sweet spot. Before each decision, contestants are free to debate, persuade, bluff and manipulate each other — turning what could have been a straightforward trivia contest into something much closer to psychological warfare in a shiny ITV primetime wrapper.
It’s also another significant entertainment commission for ITV at a time when the broadcaster is under growing pressure to land a breakout non-scripted hit. Recent attempts to launch fresh event entertainment formats have delivered mixed results at best, with The Neighbourhood — fronted by Graham Norton — struggling badly in the ratings before being quietly shifted out of primetime to burn off its remaining episodes.
Against that backdrop, The Golden Elevators feels like a calculated pivot towards something cleaner, simpler and more format-friendly. The premise is instantly understandable, visually strong and deliberately designed for audience play-along — the kind of broad entertainment mechanic ITV executives traditionally love.
And if there’s one person who knows how to sell a format built on simplicity, it’s Osman. Already synonymous with modern British quiz television thanks to Pointless and his hugely successful publishing career, Osman brings an affable authority that ITV will hope helps elevate the format above gimmick territory.
“I signed up the moment they showed me the game,” Osman said. “It’s so simple, but it takes such skill to win — I’ve never seen a quiz show quite like it.”
ATV Today
The Sun
The London Standard
ITV Press Centre
Radio Times
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posted 5/12/2026 |
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Sony Pictures TV/CBS
NBC P-I-C-K-S Up "Wordle" For 2027
Savannah Guthrie to Host
From the Futon Critic
|
NBC has greenlit a new game show series based on "Wordle," the globally beloved word game from The New York Times Games. Produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio (UTAS), in partnership with Jimmy Fallon's Electric Hot Dog and The New York Times, the series brings the global phenomenon to television with a fresh, fast-paced format.
Originally launched in 2021 and acquired by The New York Times in 2022, Wordle has become a cultural phenomenon, engaging millions of daily players worldwide and inspiring conversation across generations. An avid "Wordle" player, "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie will serve as host of the primetime gameshow.
The new format challenges players to solve five-letter word puzzles in a supersized battle of smarts, speed and fun. It builds on the way the puzzle community engages with Wordle every day - solving together, sharing wins, debating strategies and cheering one another on. Now, that style of play comes to life as the most-obsessed and competitive players will team up in squads and go head-to-head in the "Wordle" arena, playing for an incredible cash prize.
"I feel very honored to be working with Savannah Guthrie on this show," said Fallon "Savannah has that rare combination of intelligence, charm, and warmth that makes everyone feel instantly welcome. And she obviously knows how to host a show. I am SUPER PROUD and HAPPY and I think we developed a SOLID GAMER for PRIME-time."
"Wordle is one of the most successful and culturally resonant games of the past decade," said Sharon Vuong, Executive Vice President, Unscripted Programming, NBC. "This series is a natural extension of NBC's legacy in the game show space, and with the incredible Savannah at the helm and our partners at UTAS, Electric Hot Dog and The New York Times, we're excited to bring a smart, joyful and distinctly NBC take to this global phenomenon."
"We're eager, happy, giddy - all of those five-letter words and more - to bring Wordle to life for television," said Toby Gorman, President, Universal Television Alternative Studio. "The New York Times word game has been played billions of times, and our goal is to create an equally addictive show. Savannah brings the perfect blend of warmth and wit to deliver exactly that."
"Several years ago, The New York Times began developing a Wordle game show. Teaming up with Jimmy Fallon to develop the game for NBC was a perfect fit," says Caitlin Roper, executive editorial director of film and tv at the Times. "We wanted to honor the specific thrill of Wordle, the way people play and share their scores with each other, but also make something new for TV. Like Jimmy, Savannah is a passionate Wordle player-she even solved on TV in Times Square. No one gets what our contestants will go through like she does."
Casting for the season is currently open, interested applicants can visit wordle.castingcrane.com. Production on the show is set to begin later this year and is slated to premiere in 2027.
"Wordle" is produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, in association with Fallon's production company, Electric Hot Dog and The New York Times. Jimmy Fallon and Jim Juvonen serve as executive producers for Electric Hot Dog with Caitlin Roper and Jonathan Knight serving as executive producers for The New York Times. Wes Kauble will also executive produce and serve as showrunner. The "Wordle" format will be licensed globally by NBCUniversal Formats, a division of Universal Studio Group.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
BBC News
Variety
Newscast Studio
TMZ
Realscreen
Sky News
Daytime Confidential
The Guardian
USA Today
CNN
The Hill
The New York Times
NBC News Today
Deadline
KROC-FM Rochester
Distractify
Pocket Gamer
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posted 5/12/2026 |
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Riley Green
A New Coach in Town
Riley Green to Join "Voice" Season 30
From Deadline
|
The Voice will have some new blood for Season 30. Country singer Riley Green will join Kelly Clarkson and Adam Levine as a coach on the NBC show. Season 29, which just ended, saw Clarkson, Levine and John Legend as the three coaches. Season 30, which returns in the fall, will feature four coaches with one other star joining the trio soon.
Green has released three albums and is known for hits including There Was This Girl, I Wish Grandpas Never Died, Half of Me and Different ‘Round Here, which he did with Luke Combs.
While the move marks Green’s first role as a judge on a singing competition, he was one of the stars on CMT’s 2012 reality series Redneck Island. He also recently appeared in a four-episode arc on CBS’ Yellowstone spinoff Marshals as one of Kayce Dutton’s former Navy SEAL teammates. Green revealed his new gig on his Instagram page with a voicemail from Kelly Clarkson.
Clarkson said, “We have never officially met… I am super stoked to coach alongside you. Welcome to The Voice. I was stoked when I heard you’re going to be a coach because I actually am a super fan of your music, man, you’re so good. You probably know that, because I’ve covered your songs, big fan. But, needless to say, fan and all, it’s a competition. So I, as a future friend, I sent you something, a little gift, while you’re out on the road doing shows to get your head in the game for The Voice coming up, because I think you’re gonna need the practice, because team Kelly’s gonna whoop that ass.”
“I guess y’all can start calling me coach… see ya this fall,” Green added.
Deadline
The Futon Critic
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posted 5/11/2026 |
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Sony Pictures TV Studios
More on "Pop Culture Jeopardy!" Season 2
Catch It on Netflix
From the Futon Critic
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A new platform means new rules for Pop Culture Jeopardy!. Season 2 of the game show premiered on May 11 and gives the winner an opportunity to win more games and money.
Instead of the teams winning one game and then advancing to the quarterfinals, they can now win up to five games.
“Things are going to be slightly different this time. Here’s how it works,” host Colin Jost said. “The winners of each game will advance to play in the next episode, where they cap at five games maximum. After 15 games, the top nine teams will compete in the semifinals for a chance to win $300,000 and be named the next Pop Culture Jeopardy! champion.”
The recently introduced version of the syndicated game show focuses solely on — you guessed it — pop culture questions, ranging from TV to sports to music and more. Jeopardy! has produced many spinoffs, including Tournament of Champions, Masters, Invitational Tournament, Celebrity Jeopardy!, College Tournaments, and more. But they all focus on everyday trivia. Pop Culture Jeopardy! is solely for the fangirls and boys.
The Personality Hires (Emily Hogg, Zach Gozlan, and Miranda Onnen) won Season 1 in March and took home the grand prize and the PC Jeopardy! trophy.
Hosted by SNL Weekend Update anchor Colin Jost, Pop Culture Jeopardy! is a prudciton of Sony Pictures Television Studios, Michael Davies executive producer and Bari Jean Dorman co-exective producer.
The Futon Critic
TV Insider
ComingSoon.net
The Futon Critic
TV Insider
Hollywood Outbreak
TV Insider |
posted 5/11/2026 |
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Brent Probst
SCOTT PROBST: c.1968-2026
"Survivor" Cameraman, Art Director; Jeff's Younger Brother
From People |
Survivor host Jeff Probst's brother Scott has died, their brother Brent announced on Instagram Monday, May 11.
"Some sad news, our brother Scott is no longer with us," Brent captioned a photo of Scott. "He was a great brother, son and friend. I will miss him so much. I’m so sad he is gone." A cause of death was not revealed.
Scott previously worked alongside his brother on Survivor. While Jeff, 64, has hosted the reality series since May 2000, his brother has been credited on a few episodes as both an art assistant and camera assistant.
Scott's death comes nearly two years after the death of their mother, Barb Probst, who died in November 2024. A season 47 episode paid tribute to the family matriarch, with a tribute card reading, “Dedicated to Barb, the biggest Survivor fan of all time. See you on our next adventure.” Brent confirmed the death of their mother on Instagram at the time.
“She was the best mom, grandma and just a fantastic person full of love and life," he wrote. "For the last couple years, she had full-time care for dementia and died one week before her 86th birthday." He added, "She had a great life and I am certain that I am a good person because she and my dad raised me with love and humor. I will miss her every single day for the rest of my life.”
People
TMZ
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posted 5/11/2026 |
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Monday Lightning Round
... or "Surprise!" |
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posted 5/11/2023 |
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ABC
SFG: 2026 Edition
Here's the Calendar!
From the Futon Critic
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Today, ABC announced its summer premiere dates, which include a slate of high-stakes, fan-favorite game shows and the brand-new competition series, "Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro."
"Celebrity Family Feud" premieres THURSDAY, JULY 9, with host Steve Harvey, followed by new episodes of "Press Your Luck," hosted by Elizabeth Banks. Later in the month, Jimmy Kimmel hosts a new season of "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire," starting WEDNESDAY, JULY 22. As previously announced, the latest spinoff series from the hit franchise, "Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro," is set to debut MONDAY, JULY 13, hosted by Robert Irwin.
As previously announced, "The Bachelor," "Bachelor in Paradise" and "Dancing with the Stars" have been renewed for new seasons. Premiere dates for these series will be announced at a later date.
CELEBRITY FAMILY FEUD Hosted by stand-up comedian, actor, author and Emmy(R) Award winner Steve Harvey, the iconic game show features celebrities, along with their family members or their extended TV families, going head-to-head in a contest to name the most popular responses to survey-type questions posed to 100 people for a chance to win $25,000 for a charity of their choice. "Celebrity Family Feud" is produced by Fremantle. Myeshia Mizuno is the showrunner and executive producer. Follow "Celebrity Family Feud" (#CelebrityFamilyFeud) on Instagram, X and Facebook.
DANCING WITH THE STARS: THE NEXT PRO Hosted by wildlife conservationist and "Dancing with the Stars" Season 34 Len Goodman Mirrorball Champion Robert Irwin, "Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro" features 12 exceptional up-and-coming dancers who move into one house and compete in a grueling audition process, all vying for a coveted spot as a pro dancer on Season 35 of "Dancing with the Stars." Three-time Mirrorball champion Mark Ballas and his mother, "The Queen of Latin" Shirley Ballas, will serve as judges. They will be joined by a star-studded lineup of returning pros who will serve as rotating mentors/guest judges. Follow "DWTS" (#DWTSNextPro) on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, TikTok, X and YouTube.
PRESS YOUR LUCK Hosted by Elizabeth Banks, "Press Your Luck" is a game of wits, strategy and high stakes as contestants compete for a chance at life-changing cash and prizes. During each game of "Press Your Luck," three contestants battle each other, answering questions to earn spins on the Big Board. Contestants then use their spins to win cash and prizes while trying to avoid the WHAMMY, which could take all their winnings and leave them with nothing. The winning contestant then moves on to the bonus round to face the WHAMMY in a final battle for the chance to win $1 million. "Press Your Luck" is produced by Fremantle. The show is executive produced by Elizabeth Banks, Max Handelman and John Quinn, who also serves as showrunner. Follow "Press Your Luck" (#PressYourLuck) on Instagram, X and Facebook.
WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE Hosted by Emmy Award-winning Jimmy Kimmel, "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" features pairs of celebrity contestants playing together in the hopes of winning $1 million for the charity of their choice. "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" is executive produced by Michael Davies and Jimmy Kimmel. The series is produced by Sony Pictures Television's Embassy Row and Kimmelot. Follow "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" (#WhoWantsToBeAMillionaire) on Instagram, X and Facebook.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
TV Line
Variety
The Wrap
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posted 5/8/2026 |
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A Record-Shattering Lion's Share
TPIR Contestant Breaks Single-Game Record
From E! |
The next contestant on The Price is Right is none other than the biggest single-game winner of all time.
The longtime CBS game show had a price that was extra right for contestant Vanesa McCaskel from Virginia, who took home more than $240,000 in cash and prizes on the May 8 episode, setting the record for the largest amount won in a single pricing game in the show’s 54-year history.
The retired vet tried her luck on the BetMGM sponsored “The Lion’s Share” on the Mother’s Day-themed episode. She started off winning $2,500 then $25,000 before landing on $100,000 twice and even picking up a mother-daughter trip to Morocco, ultimately giving her a $240,150 haul.
"From ‘Come on Down’ to playing ‘The Lion’s Share,’ it all felt so surreal,” Vanesa raved in a press release, “a dream moment that only kept getting bigger. I was nervous, excited and everything at once. Winning over $200,000 is life changing.”
As for what she plans to do with her winnings? “Invest wisely, enjoy a little and treat my mom to a special surprise.”
McCaskel's win of $240,150 surpasses the previous record single game win of $210,000, which was set on a 2016 episode.
Since taking over hosting duties from the late Bob Barker in 2007, Drew has constantly found himself amazed by the continued love and adoration for The Price is Right—even if he was slightly overwhelmed by the audiences at first.
“I couldn’t believe how loud it was,” he recalled to Variety in 2025. “I thought my hair was gonna blow back. I used to wear an Apple watch. I had to change the settings because all of a sudden, my watch was going off all the time during the show, telling me I was in a loud environment.”
And of course, it was important to him to “keep the memory of Bob alive.”
“I’m not replacing anybody,” he explained. “I’m just doing a show that he used to do.”
E!
Variety
TV Line
Deadline
USA Today
WTSP Tampa-St. Petersburg
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posted 5/8/2026 |
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"Masked Singer" to Return
Season 15 Comes with Numerous Changes
From Deadline |
The Masked Singer is heading into Season 15 with a new production company and likely a new, East Coast location.
Fox has renewed the singing competition for a midseason bow in the 2026-27 broadcast season. However, it no longer will be produced by Fox Entertainment Studios after Fremantle-owned Eureka Productions beat a number of rivals for the right to make the show.
Masked Singer also is going to stick with one season per year, which it brought in for Season 14.
The move is interesting because it puts production of one of Fox’s biggest hits – arguably the show that had the most impact on the unscripted business in the States before The Traitors came along – into the hands of a third party.
It’s not the show’s first production change; the first season in 2019 was produced by Endemol Shine North America before it was taken over by the then-named Fox Alternative Entertainment for Season 2.
The Masked Singer also is likely to move from Los Angeles, where its most recent season was shot, to the East Coast.
Eureka is keen to cement a deal for the production in New Jersey. The Garden State offers production tax incentives of 30% on qualified expenses with up to 40% on certain studio projects. New Jersey, unlike California and many other states, also accepts unscripted in its tax incentive scheme.
Fox insiders noted that the move also could benefit the show from a talent perspective; it now will have more access to East Coast stars, including Broadway performers and those working in New York.
Eureka Productions, which is owned by Fremantle, is no stranger to big-budget productions. It is producing Netflix’s upcoming Willy Wonka-themed series The Golden Ticket and has produced series including Megan Thee Stallion-starring KPopped for Apple TV and The Mole for Netflix. The company also has worked regularly with Fox; it produces Rob Lowe’s The Floor, Jay Pharoah-hosted game show The Quiz with Balls and dating show Farmer Wants a Wife.
Deadline
Primetimer
Yahoo!/Parade
|
posted 5/8/2026 |
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Quick! Hide!
RTVE Spain Option for "Hide & Seek"
From C21 Media |
Spanish public broadcaster RTVE has commissioned Warner Bros ITVP Spain to create a local adaptation of Talpa Studios’ format The House of Hide & Seek.
RTL 4’s original The House of Hide & Seek Locally titled El Escondite the show is based on the classic hide and seek game using a set with more than 120 hiding places, where the audience will follow every move of the contestants in real time.
The House of Hide & Seek was created by Talpa Studios and David Grifhorst and developed in collaboration with Fox Entertainment Studios in the US. The project was originally commissioned by RTL 4 in the Netherlands in conjunction with the Videoland platform, which will release its first version this year.
The Spanish version will be produced at Talpa Studios’ hub in the Netherlands. Its sale into Spain marks the first international agreement for the format.
In each episode, six celebrities compete in a series of rounds that combine riddles, tension and strategy, alternating on-set challenges with intense searches inside the set in front of a live audience.
C21 Media |
posted 5/8/2026 |
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Fox
Fox Lines Up "Nation's Dumbest"
Jack Whitehall to Host
From the Futon Critic
|
FOX today announced the debut of Nation's Dumbest, a new celebrity competition series that flips the traditional format on its head - because this is the only show where winning is the last thing anyone wants. Taking attendance as host is acclaimed comedian Jack Whitehall, who presides over the chaos as contestants relive the highs and humiliations of school life - from pop quizzes and report cards to recess and parent teacher conferences - all while trying to stay out of last place. The series will debut this summer starting Wednesday, July 15 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX.
Nation's Dumbest, a proven format across multiple international territories, channels celebrities' inner school spirit as they head back to summer school, facing a mix of brain-teasing tasks, fast-paced physical challenges, and long-buried classroom knowledge. Each week, the 'smartest' celebrity graduates, narrowing the field until a high-stakes final exam determines who will be left standing with the distinction no one wants - the title of The Nation's Dumbest.
Enrolled in this season's all-star class are television personality Hilaria Baldwin, actress and model Carmen Electra, actor Anthony Michael Hall, actor Jon Heder, musician and actor Chase Hudson, rapper and actor Ice-T, singer-songwriter Elle King, former NFL quarterback Matt Leinart, television personality and physician Dr. Drew Pinsky, stunt performer and comedian Steve-O, singer and performer JoJo Siwa, and entrepreneur and former presidential candidate Andrew Yang.
"Nation's Dumbest takes an instantly relatable format and flips it in a way that's 'smart,' unpredictable, and genuinely funny," said Michael Thorn, President of FOX Television Network. "It's a competition where the goal is to avoid winning, and that twist - combined with Jack Whitehall's sharp comedic voice and a great celebrity cast - makes it a bold, high-energy series built for big, co-viewing audiences."
"I can confidently say we have the absolute dumbest television format in the world - and for once, that's by design, said Ryan O'Dowd, President of Unscripted, BBC Studios. "Nation's Dumbest celebrates humor, humility and the universal experience of not always getting it right. With Jack Whitehall leading the chaos and a cast fully in on the joke, it's a bold, irreverent series packed with big laughs and real surprises."
Based on a format from Montreaux Films, Nation's Dumbest is executive produced by Ryan O'Dowd, Krystal Whitney and Jenny Groom for BBC Studios. James Breen and Michael O'Sullivan also executive produce, with Breen serving as showrunner.
Jack Whitehall is an award-winning comedian, actor, presenter and writer. He most recently starred in the series, "The 'Burbs" opposite Keke Palmer; and opposite David Duchovny and Carice Van Houton in the thriller, "Malice." He's recently wrapped production on the indie rom-com, "Whodunnit" opposite Lana Condor and Randall Park; and the thriller "Legacy" opposite Anjelica Huston and Lucy Hale. Up next, he'll be back on tour with his Jack Whitehall: Bad Influence UK tour.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Deadline
|
posted 5/8/2026 |
 |
Happy Friday Lightning Round
... or "Splitsville" |
- Will Arnett, Carolyn Murphy break up (TMZ)
- Cameron Mathison, wife file for legal separation (TMZ)
- Grant Ellis threw shade on Taylor Frankie Paul... Taylor Frankie Paul threw it right back (Reality Tea)
- Savannah Louie reveals how much taxes she had to pay on her "Survivor" winnings (Reality Tea)
- Blake Shelton blames manager for missing No Doubt show (TMZ)
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posted 5/8/2023 |
 |

E!
E! Bellies Up to the Bar
Joey Fatone, Lance Bass to Host "Cocktail Wars"
From the Futon Critic
|
E!, the go-to destination for high-quality pop culture and entertainment news, is expanding their unscripted slate with the addition of new original mixology competition series Cocktail Wars. Hosted by Lance Bass and Joey Fatone, the 10-episode series will debut this summer.
Cocktail Wars pits America's buzziest mixologists against each other in a lively, high-stakes showdown for $10,000 per episode. Hosted by Joey Fatone and Lance Bass, who are joined by a series of celebrities and an expert judge, each episode features a fast, fiery battle of skill, creativity, humor, and flair. From playful flavor combinations to eye-catching technique, the focus is on having a good time, taking risks, and serving up drinks with personality. Each shake, stir, and splash could be the winning touch or the one that sends them home. It's a cocktail competition where the vibes are high, the drinks are strong, and the bragging rights are everything.
"We're excited to be part of Cocktail Wars and team up again for something this fun," said Lance Bass and Joey Fatone. "With this much talent, a little competition, a lot of cocktails and just enough chaos to keep things interesting - that's usually where we thrive."
"We are beyond thrilled to welcome Lance and Joey to E! with Cocktail Wars," said Val Boreland, President of Entertainment, VERSANT. "Blending competition, creativity and personality, this show will deliver must-watch moments where nostalgia, pop culture, and mixology are in sync."
Cocktail Wars is executive produced by Texas Crew Productions and R&D Media. David Karabinas, Rick Cikowski, Chip Rives, James Macnab and Brad Bernstein are executive producers for Texas Crew; Russ McCarroll is showrunner and executive producer for R&D.
The Futon Critic
Deadline
|
posted 5/7/2026 |
 |
Wells Adams Goes Golfing
"Bachelor in Paradise" Bartender to Co-Host "Big Break x Good Good"
From the Futon Critic |
Television and entertainment personality Wells Adams - best known for his work on The Bachelor and Bachelor in Paradise and current co-host of The Vanity Index on Golf Channel - will serve as co-host for Big Break x Good Good Presented by Golf Galaxy, as the ground-breaking golf reality competition show returns to Golf Channel this August.
A self-admitted golf nut and long-time fan of Big Break, Adams joins Big Break Dominican Republic winner, former LPGA Tour pro and Golf Channel personality Blair O'Neal as co-host for Season 24.
"As a self-proclaimed 'golf-sicko,' Wells is the perfect person to pair with Blair to host the return of Big Break," said Tom Knapp, Golf Channel EVP and GM. "His well-documented experience and success in reality television combined with the interviews and "inside golf" conversations he has on The Vanity Index on Golf Channel make him a bit of a Big Break unicorn. I also think he'll be a really good fit for fans of Good Good Golf. We're very happy to have Wells on our Big Break team."
Adams initially gained recognition as a contestant on the reality series The Bachelorette and currently serves as the bartender on Bachelor in Paradise. He currently co-hosts and produces The Vanity Index Podcast alongside Full Swing producer Chad Mumm, airing Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m. ET on Golf Channel. He has also hosted the baking reality competition show Sweet Empire and recently appeared on the reality series The Traitors.
Taking place at Horseshoe Bay Resort in Horseshoe Bay, Texas, Big Break x Good Good Presented by Golf Galaxy renews Golf Channel's transformative golf reality competition series, in partnership with Good Good Golf. The original series broke ground in television entertainment beginning in the early 2000s and ran for a record-breaking 23 seasons.
The Futon Critic
E!
|
posted 5/7/2026 |
 |
Netflix Heads Back to the Island
"Temptation Island" to Return for Season 3
From Deadline |
A new group of couples are preparing to have their relationships tested after Netflix renewed Temptation Island for a third season.
The renewal comes less than a month after the second season dropped on the platform.
The dating series has performed well for the streamer, with Season 2 hitting Netflix’s Global Top 10 ratings with 2.5M views in its first week. This was broadly in line with the ratings for the first season, which also made it into the Top 10 when it was released in March 2025, where it averaged 2.7M views in its first week.
It’s the latest dating hit for Netflix, which has found success in the genre with Love Is Blind, and more recently, Age of Attraction, which was renewed for a second season after debuting with 3.8M views over its first week.
Deadline
Swooon
|
posted 5/7/2026 |
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NBCUniversal
UPFRONTS: Telemundo
IN: Hispanophone Version of "House of Villains" Joining Reality Favorites
From Deadline
|
Telemundo is leading the way in unscripted programming, and in their 2026-2027 programming slate, we’ll see more of their leading franchises, including La Casa de los Famosos, Exatlón Estados Unidos, and Top Chef VIP.
Joining the slate is the singing competition Operación Triunfo and an adaptation of Peacock’s House of Villains.
For Latinos, live content is not just a form of entertainment; it’s how they spend time together and connect across generations, ages, and distance. Telemundo’s reality franchises fuel daily engagement, social conversation, and cross-platform viewing. These formats are designed as multiplatform ecosystems—extending beyond linear to streaming, and from digital to social — to build lasting audience connection and loyalty.
Capitalizing on the success of La Casa de los Famosos, Telemundo is upping the stakes with a new competition featuring aspiring singers. Operación Triunfo is set to premiere this summer on the network with Natalia Téllez tapped to host the show.
Also joining the lineup is Juego de Villanos (working title), an adaptation of House of Villains, which brings reality stars together under one roof to find out who is the most villanous of them all.
“I think we have a very interesting, not only lineup, but a future in terms of the way that we are not only producing these reality shows, but also creating the whole 360 environment around the properties that we are producing, there’s an exciting moment for the content and the TV,” SVP of Unscripted Content, Adrián Santucho, told Deadline previewing Telemundo’s Unscripted slate. “What we are doing now is not only producing the show, but programming our shows, Monday through Friday, Sundays, two, three hours per day. It’s a very strong way to create the fandom that we are creating around the properties.”
He continued, “It’s not about a TV show … is more of a community. And I think this is an opportunity for us to keep growing and bring people, not only to our screen, but to our ecosystem.” Santucho, who joined Telemundo earlier this year, said that although the network has produced existing formats, he sees a future where they start setting new trends with new formats, adding, “It’s those shows that we have to start pushing now at some point [as] we are in the position we can create trends now.”
Check out Telemundo’s Unscripted slate below.
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La Casa de los Famosos Season 7: The multiplatform reality phenomenon La Casa de los Famosos returns with a new cast of fan-favorite celebrities living in complete isolation from the outside world. The series delivers an unfiltered, 24/7 viewing experience across platforms—including its wildly popular 24/7 live stream—powered by more than 100 cameras capturing every moment. As alliances form and rivalries intensify, audiences ultimately decide who will be crowned the winner of Telemundo’s highest-rated reality series.
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Top Chef VIP: Top Chef VIP brings together celebrities in a high-stakes culinary competition judged by three renowned Latino chefs. Hosted by acclaimed actress Carmen Villalobos, the series combines skill, pressure and personality as contestants compete for the title and a $200,000 prize.
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Exatlón Estados Unidos: Telemundo’s longest-running reality competition, Exatlón Estados Unidos, returns for its 11th season, pushing elite athletes to their physical and mental limits through demanding circuits and head-to-head challenges. Living in isolation, competitors face intense daily competition until one is crowned champion.
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Operación Triunfo Estados Unidos: Hosted by Mexican actress, host and media personality Natalia Téllez, Operación Triunfo is a global music competition where a group of young artists live and train together at an academy while being filmed 24/7. Each week, they take the stage in high-profile live gala concerts, performing solo and in groups as they compete for the opportunity to launch a professional music career. Guided by a panel of judges and industry mentors, contestants are evaluated on their talent, growth and performance, while audiences play a key role in determining who advances. Blending artistic training, real-life moments and top-tier musical performances, the series delivers a compelling journey of personal ambition, creativity and transformation.
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Juego de Villanos (Working Title): House of Villains brings together some of the most notorious personalities from Spanish-language reality TV in a high-stakes competition built on strategy, conflict and survival. Living under one roof, contestants must navigate shifting alliances, outmaneuver their rivals and adapt to an ever-changing game where trust is limited and every move has consequences. Through a series of physical, mental and social challenges, they compete to avoid elimination and gain control of the house. In the end, only one will rise above the rest to claim the title of ultimate “Supervillain” and a cash prize.
Deadline
The Wrap
|
posted 5/7/2026 |
 |
MasterChef Goes 24/7
EndemolShine Mexico to Launch Real-Time Version of Competition Series
From Variety |
“MasterChef” is going all-live, all-the-time in Mexico. EndemolShine Boomdog, part of Banijay Americas, announced Thursday that “MasterChef 24/7” — the the first live, 24/7 version of the culinary competition franchise, will launch this spring. “MasterChef 24/7” will feature both a broadcast component via TV Azteca, along with a 24/7 stream via Disney+ and a digital element as well.
“MasterChef México 24/7” will premiere May 17 on TV Azteca. Per the logline, “For the first time, contestants will live, train and compete under one roof in a purpose-built environment designed to elevate technique, mentorship and professional development. The format increases transparency around the discipline and craft required to succeed, shifting the focus from observation to skill-based progression.”
Along with the live streaming across digital platforms, TV Azteca will air live episodes including 2-hour primetime episodes Monday through Friday, along with a three-hour Sunday episode featuring the show’s “Grand Elimination Challenge.” On digital, audiences will see training sessions, technical instruction, team challenges and judges deliberations in real-time. Weekday elements include a defined culinary test (including the “MasterChef Mystery Box”), technical pressure challenges, team competitions, creativity focused assignments and a “Salvation Challenge.”
“MasterChef México” is hosted by Claudia Lizaldi, with judges Chef Adrián Herrera, Chef Zahie Téllez and Chef Poncho Cadena.
“MasterChef has sustained global relevance because it evolves without compromising its core,” said EndemolShine Boomdog chief content officer Frank Scheuermann. “This model expands access to the process while protecting the integrity of the competition as viewers gain greater visibility into mentorship, technique, and progression.”
Variety
Variety
|
posted 5/7/2026 |
 |
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