‘Emilia Pérez’ and ‘The Bear’ Dominate the Race with 10 and 5 Nods Respectively

The nominees for the 82nd Golden Globe Awards have been officially announced, setting the stage for a star-studded celebration of film and television.

In the world of cinema, Emilia Pérez leads with an impressive 10 nominations, marking it as the most-nominated comedy or musical film in Golden Globe history. Hot on its heels are The Brutalist with seven nominations and Conclave with six. On the television front, FX/Hulu’s The Bear takes the lead with five nominations, while Only Murders in the Building and Shōgun follow closely with four nods each.

The highly competitive individual categories feature an array of celebrated names. In film, stars like Timothée Chalamet, Sebastian Stan, Angelina Jolie, Kate Winslet, Zendaya, and Cynthia Erivo have been recognized for their standout performances. Meanwhile, the television categories include Donald Glover, Hiroyuki Sanada, Kristen Bell, Ayo Edebiri, and Quinta Brunson among the nominees.

The 2025 Golden Globe Awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on January 5, promising a night filled with glamour, excitement, and surprises.

Full List of 2025 Golden Globe Nominations

Best Motion Picture – Drama

• The Brutalist (A24)
• A Complete Unknown (Searchlight Pictures)
• Conclave (Focus Features)
• Dune: Part Two (Warner Bros. Pictures)
• Nickel Boys (Orion Pictures / Amazon MGM Studios)
• September 5 (Paramount Pictures)

Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy

• Anora (Neon)
• Challengers (Amazon MGM Studios)
• Emilia Pérez (Netflix)
• A Real Pain (Searchlight Pictures)
• The Substance (Mubi)
• Wicked (Universal Pictures)

Best Motion Picture – Animated

• Flow (Sideshow / Janus Films)
• Inside Out 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Memoir of a Snail (IFC Films)
• Moana 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (Netflix)
• The Wild Robot (Universal Pictures)

Cinematic and Box Office Achievement

• Alien: Romulus (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (Warner Bros. Pictures)
• Deadpool & Wolverine (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Gladiator II (Paramount Pictures)
• Inside Out 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Twisters (Universal Pictures)
• Wicked (Universal Pictures)
• The Wild Robot (Universal Pictures)

The nominations span across categories highlighting international films, standout performances, and technical brilliance. For non-English language films, entries like All We Imagine as Light (USA/France/India) and The Girl with the Needle (Poland/Sweden/Denmark) bring a global flavor to the competition.

Key Individual Acting Nominations

Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama

• Pamela Anderson (The Last Showgirl)
• Angelina Jolie (Maria)
• Nicole Kidman (Babygirl)
• Tilda Swinton (The Room Next Door)
• Fernanda Torres (I’m Still Here)
• Kate Winslet (Lee)

Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama

• Adrien Brody (The Brutalist)
• Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown)
• Daniel Craig (Queer)
• Colman Domingo (Sing Sing)
• Ralph Fiennes (Conclave)
• Sebastian Stan (The Apprentice)

Television Categories

The TV categories showcase exceptional talent in both drama and comedy, with The Bear, Abbott Elementary, and Shōgun standing out. Notable nominees include Kristen Bell (Nobody Wants This), Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary), and Jeremy Allen White (The Bear), as well as seasoned actors like Donald Glover (Mr. & Mrs. Smith) and Hiroyuki Sanada (Shōgun).

Special Honors

This year’s Cecil B. DeMille Award will honor the incomparable Viola Davis, while the Carol Burnett Award will celebrate the contributions of legendary actor Ted Danson.

The countdown to the Golden Globes is on! Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

Jeremy Allen White, the breakout star of The Bear, is officially stepping into the Star Wars universe. White has been cast as the voice of Rotta the Hutt, Jabba the Hutt’s slug-like son, in the upcoming film The Mandalorian & Grogu.

Set in the aftermath of Return of the Jedi, the film picks up where Jabba’s reign of terror ended—with Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) famously strangling the crime lord to death. Following Jabba’s demise, his cousins unsuccessfully attempted to seize control of his territory, as revealed in The Book of Boba Fett. Now, Rotta’s arrival in the storyline hints at another potential power struggle, possibly bringing Boba Fett (Temuera Morrison) and Fennec Shand (Ming-Na Wen) back into the fray to protect their hard-won dominance on Tatooine.

The movie will be directed by The Mandalorian series creator Jon Favreau, who is co-writing the screenplay with Dave Filoni, known for his work on Ahsoka. Pedro Pascal is confirmed to return as Din Djarin, the titular Mandalorian, alongside Grogu—affectionately known as Baby Yoda—who will also be featured prominently in the film. Adding to the excitement, Sigourney Weaver has joined the cast in a currently undisclosed role.

This highly anticipated project continues the Star Wars franchise’s expansion, blending beloved characters with new narratives that promise to thrill fans. The Mandalorian & Grogu is set to premiere on May 22, 2026.

Star Wars enthusiasts and newcomers alike can look forward to witnessing Jeremy Allen White’s unique take on Rotta, a character poised to play a pivotal role in this evolving galaxy far, far away.

Greta Gerwig’s much-anticipated reboot of The Chronicles of Narnia is set to deliver a fresh and daring take on C.S. Lewis’s beloved fantasy series, bringing a vibe no one quite expected: rock and roll.

In an exclusive conversation with Deadline, producer Amy Pascal shared key insights about the project, revealing that filming is scheduled to kick off next July. Pascal teased Gerwig’s unique vision, describing it as “[a] very new take on Narnia. It’s all about rock and roll.” She went on to praise Gerwig’s creative genius, saying, “I’ve never seen anything like [her].”

The bold direction has sparked buzz among fans, many of whom were surprised by the “rock and roll” description. While details remain under wraps, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos previously hinted that the project would be “bigger and bolder than [audiences] thought.” Gerwig herself has described the adaptation as a blend of English folklore and fairy tales, hinting at a reinterpretation that could redefine the Narnian world for a modern audience.

Gerwig is set to direct at least two films in the saga, with the first expected to hit screens in late 2025. Given her stellar track record, expectations are sky-high. Her 2023 blockbuster Barbie shattered box office records and became a cultural phenomenon, while her earlier works, such as Little Women and Lady Bird, received widespread critical acclaim.

Fans of both Gerwig and The Chronicles of Narnia will undoubtedly be eager to see how she infuses her signature storytelling style into this ambitious project. Will Narnia’s magic and whimsy pair seamlessly with a rock-and-roll edge? With Gerwig at the helm, anything feels possible.

Spike Lee has officially announced that A$AP Rocky will take on “the main role” in Highest 2 Lowest, his highly anticipated film described as a “reinterpretation” of Akira Kurosawa’s classic High and Low.

Initial reports suggested that Rocky would portray a character named Yung Felon, but details about how his role influences the plot remain under wraps. Speaking to Deadline, Lee confirmed the rapper’s pivotal involvement in the project. Additionally, he revealed that rising star Ice Spice will also appear in the film, though specifics about her role have yet to be disclosed.

The film reimagines Kurosawa’s 1963 crime thriller, High and Low, but with a modern twist. In the original, Toshiro Mifune plays a shoemaker who becomes embroiled in an extortion plot when his chauffeur’s son is kidnapped. In Lee’s reinterpretation, Denzel Washington takes the lead as a powerful music mogul renowned for his impeccable ear and influential record label. This marks the fifth collaboration between Lee and Washington, a partnership the director affectionately refers to as his “dynamic duo.”

Kurosawa’s High and Low was itself inspired by Ed McBain’s 1959 novel King’s Ransom and is celebrated as one of the most iconic crime dramas in cinematic history. Lee’s modern adaptation, however, promises a fresh narrative lens while maintaining the emotional depth and moral complexity of its source material.

Highest 2 Lowest will be distributed theatrically by A24 before making its global debut on Apple TV+. The combination of Spike Lee’s visionary direction, Denzel Washington’s legendary presence, and A$AP Rocky’s lead role is already generating buzz, setting expectations sky-high for this reimagined classic.

Austin Butler is stepping into the chilling shoes of Patrick Bateman in an upcoming remake of American Psycho. Renowned filmmaker Luca Guadagnino is set to reimagine Bret Easton Ellis’s iconic novel for Lionsgate, bringing his distinctive cinematic flair to the infamous tale.

The project will feature a script penned by Scott Z. Burns and promises to deliver a fresh interpretation of the novel rather than a direct remake of the cult-classic 2000 film that starred Christian Bale, Willem Dafoe, and Reese Witherspoon. Earlier speculation had linked Jacob Elordi to the lead role, but Butler has officially taken on the part of the enigmatic Wall Street yuppie and serial killer.

The original film, set in the 1980s, earned critical acclaim for its sharp satire of consumerism and its haunting portrayal of Bateman’s descent into madness. Guadagnino, celebrated for films like Call Me by Your Name, Challengers, and Bones and All, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the story. Fans anticipate that his version may lean into a more sensual and provocative tone, a hallmark of his filmmaking style.

Production is expected to begin after Guadagnino wraps up work on After the Hunt, his forthcoming film starring Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield.

As excitement builds around this highly anticipated project, stay tuned for updates on casting, production, and release details.

Tom Holland is stepping into the world of film production with the launch of his new company, Billy17. Collaborating with his brother Harry Holland and creative partner Will South, the trio has already secured a production deal with Sony Pictures. Their first project under this partnership promises to be an original film, signaling the start of an exciting new chapter in Holland’s career.

Billy17 is currently developing a movie titled Burnt, with Academy Award-winning writer Rodney Rothman attached to script the project. While specific plot details remain under wraps, there’s speculation that Holland himself will take on a starring role. Additionally, the team at Billy17 is gearing up to produce an adaptation of Graeme Simsion’s bestselling novel, The Rosie Project, in collaboration with Sony Pictures. Another major venture includes The Winner, a novel by Teddy Wayne, which Holland is also set to star in, with Amy Pascal joining as a co-producer.

In an official statement, Tom Holland expressed his enthusiasm for this new journey. “I’ve had an incredibly happy and successful relationship with Sony Pictures for almost a decade, so they felt like the perfect partner to launch our production company with,” Holland said. “It’s been an ambition of mine to take this step for some time now, and we’re incredibly excited to bring entertaining and rewatchable movies to the big screen. This is the hope for us, and it starts with Burnt, an idea that has been sitting in our heads for a few years. Having Rodney attached to pen our most ambitious project is incredible. We’re diving into the deep end here, and we’re extremely excited for what comes next.”

Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group chairman and CEO, Tom Rothman, also shared his excitement for the partnership. “Tom, Harry, and Will are bursting with cool ideas and have the zeal to follow through on them,” Rothman said. “Sony is lucky as hell to be extending our already immensely successful relationship with Tom, and our ongoing work on the franchises we have together, to a new era which will take advantage of the trio’s producing skills, in wonderful addition to Tom’s extraordinary acting abilities. We are pushing hard on these new projects, with doubtless more to come.”

With Billy17 now officially in the spotlight, Tom Holland and his team are poised to bring their creative vision to life, delivering stories that captivate audiences while expanding Holland’s impact beyond the screen. The future looks bright for this dynamic new production company.

Michael Gracey, known for The Greatest Showman, is set to direct, with Jennifer Kaytin Robinson writing the script.

Disney is officially bringing Tangled to life as its latest animated classic to receive the live-action treatment. The project will be helmed by acclaimed filmmaker Michael Gracey, who gained widespread recognition for directing The Greatest Showman. Writing duties will fall to Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, whose previous works include Netflix’s edgy dark comedy Do Revenge, Marvel’s Thor: Love and Thunder, and the reboot of I Know What You Did Last Summer.

The live-action adaptation will reimagine Disney’s 2010 animated hit, itself inspired by the Brothers Grimm tale of Rapunzel. The original Tangled told the enchanting story of a princess with magical, impossibly long hair who escapes her isolated tower with the help of a charming outlaw, Flynn Rider. Featuring the voice talents of Mandy Moore as Rapunzel, the film was both a critical and commercial success, grossing $592 million globally. It also earned an Oscar nomination for its memorable songs, including “When Will My Life Begin.”

Following the animated film’s success, Disney expanded the Tangled universe with the 2012 short film Tangled Ever After and the 2017 television series Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure.

This announcement continues Disney’s trend of revisiting beloved animated classics through live-action adaptations. Hits like The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Mulan, and The Little Mermaid have already received the treatment, with more on the horizon. Upcoming projects include Snow White starring Rachel Zegler, Lilo & Stitch, and Moana.

While details about casting and release dates for Tangled remain under wraps, fans are already buzzing with excitement to see Rapunzel’s hair-raising adventure unfold in a whole new way.

Peacock is officially developing a reboot of Friday Night Lights, the beloved football drama that captured hearts in the 2000s.

The upcoming series, currently in development at NBCUniversal, introduces a fresh storyline. According to the official synopsis, the reboot centers on “a ragtag high school football team and their damaged, interim coach” as they embark on an unlikely journey to win the Texas High School State Championship. This inspiring effort takes place in the aftermath of a devastating hurricane, transforming the team into a beacon of hope for their struggling community.

Fans of the original series will be pleased to know that Jason Katims, who served as showrunner and executive producer of the first Friday Night Lights, is returning to helm the reboot. Joining him are Peter Berg, the original series’ director and executive producer, and Brian Grazer, another key producer from the original run.

The original Friday Night Lights premiered in 2006 and aired for five critically acclaimed seasons. The show was inspired by H.G. Bissinger’s 1990 book of the same name, which was first adapted into a 2004 film starring Billy Bob Thornton. The TV series starred Kyle Chandler as Coach Eric Taylor, whose leadership of a high school football team in the fictional town of Dillon, Texas, offered a compelling mix of sports drama and heartfelt storytelling. Chandler was joined by an ensemble cast that included Connie Britton, Taylor Kitsch, Minka Kelly, Zach Gilford, Jesse Plemons, Michael B. Jordan, and Jurnee Smollett.

Over its run, the series earned 14 Emmy nominations, with Chandler taking home the award for Best Actor in a Drama in 2011 and Katims winning for Best Writing that same year.

While it’s still unclear if any original cast members will return for the reboot, fans can expect the same spirit of resilience, teamwork, and small-town heart that made the original a classic. Stay tuned for more updates as this highly anticipated project develops.

Hot Ones is taking the leap into independence. Buzzfeed has confirmed the sale of its First We Feast studio, the powerhouse behind the wildly popular Hot Ones celebrity interview series, for $82.5 million USD. The deal sees First We Feast returning to its roots under the leadership of founder Chris Schonberger and host Sean Evans, with backing from a consortium of investors.

The investor group includes Mythical Entertainment—run by YouTube icons Rhett and Link—along with podcast company Crooked Media and Soros Fund Management. According to reports, additional partners will be revealed in the future. The acquisition also provides Buzzfeed a much-needed financial lifeline, allowing the media company to significantly reduce its debt load. Proceeds from this sale, combined with other operational funding, will cut Buzzfeed’s $124 million USD debt by $88.8 million USD, leaving the company with more cash than liabilities.

For fans of Hot Ones, this marks the beginning of an exciting new era. Hosted by Sean Evans, the show has become a pop-culture phenomenon, praised for its unique format of interviewing celebrities while they tackle progressively spicier chicken wings. Big names such as Sydney Sweeney, Billie Eilish, Paul Mescal, and Rosé have braved the heat, earning the series a dedicated following.

This sale also represents Buzzfeed’s continued restructuring following its acquisition of Complex Networks three years ago. While the $300 million USD deal initially helped Buzzfeed go public, declining investor confidence in digital media led to a significant drop in stock value. Earlier this year, Buzzfeed offloaded Complex for $108.6 million USD and shut down its news division in 2023.

Chris Schonberger, reflecting on the milestone, stated:

“Today’s announcement marks an exciting new chapter in First We Feast’s history. Being part of this incredible journey has been one of the greatest joys of my life. Our proven expertise in developing compelling formats, iconic IP, and best-in-class interviews makes us uniquely positioned to build on the brand’s momentum and supercharge our growth.”

With fresh investments, First We Feast plans to explore new platforms, expand into live events, and acquire talent. Its independence officially begins on December 19 with the launch of the Annual Hot Ones Holiday Extravaganza. Fans can also look forward to Season 26, set to premiere on January 23, 2025, featuring new celebrity guests and surprises to commemorate the show’s 10th anniversary.

The move positions First We Feast as a standalone entertainment powerhouse, ready to push boundaries in digital and live content while continuing to deliver the heat.

Despite the critical acclaim of Memento and a promising creative partnership, Guy Pearce recently disclosed that he and Christopher Nolan haven’t worked together since their groundbreaking 2000 film. The reason? A Warner Bros. executive who simply didn’t “get” him as an actor.

Speaking with Vanity Fair while promoting his upcoming film The Brutalist, Pearce revealed that while Nolan had considered him for roles in projects like Batman Begins and The Prestige, his career trajectory at Warner Bros. was ultimately hindered by an executive’s opinion.

“There was an executive at Warner Bros. who quite openly said to my agent, ‘I don’t get Guy Pearce. I’m never going to get Guy Pearce. I’m never going to employ Guy Pearce,’” Pearce recalled. “So, in a way, that’s good to know. I mean, fair enough. There are some actors I don’t get. But it meant I could never work with Chris.”

A Missed Opportunity in Batman Begins

One of the closest near-misses came when Pearce was briefly considered for the role of Henri Ducard, later revealed to be Ra’s al Ghul, in Nolan’s Batman Begins. The role ultimately went to Liam Neeson, but Pearce recounted how he learned about the decision mid-process.

“Nolan flew me out to London to discuss the part,” Pearce explained. “I think it was decided on my flight that I wasn’t going to be in the movie. So I get there, and Chris is like, ‘Hey, you want to see the Batmobile and get dinner?’”

When asked if he might have done something to offend the Warner Bros. executive, Pearce was candid. “I think he just didn’t believe in me as an actor,” he said.

Reflecting on Memento and Nolan’s Genius

Despite the challenges of working within the Warner Bros. system, Pearce remains deeply appreciative of his time with Nolan and his Memento co-star Carrie-Anne Moss.

“[Moss] was good fun. I’ve lost touch with her, unfortunately,” Pearce shared. “She had a good sense of humor, but it’s hard to compete with Chris Nolan. He’s such a towering intellect.”

Nolan, meanwhile, went on to forge an illustrious relationship with Warner Bros., beginning with Insomnia in 2002 and culminating with blockbusters like The Dark Knight trilogy, Inception, and Tenet. That collaboration ended in 2021 when the director moved to Universal, where he released the Oscar-winning Oppenheimer.

Although Pearce hasn’t had another opportunity to work with Nolan, he speaks with reverence about the director’s brilliance. The two remain emblematic of Memento’s legacy, a film that helped establish Nolan as a visionary filmmaker and cemented Pearce’s reputation as a leading man capable of delivering complex performances.

For now, Pearce continues to look ahead, pursuing challenging roles in independent films like The Brutalist, while fans can only wonder what might have been if he and Nolan had reunited.

The beloved actor starred alongside Cameron Diaz in the 1994 cult comedy.

Jim Carrey may not be done with the iconic green-faced character just yet.

In a recent conversation with Comicbook.com, Carrey revealed that he’s open to the idea of a sequel to The Mask, his breakout 1994 comedy that cemented his status as a comedic powerhouse.

“Oh man, it would really depend on the concept,” Carrey shared. “If someone came up with the right idea, sure… It’s not about the paycheck. I make jokes about that, but honestly, it’s about the creative spark. You just never know. I’ve talked about stepping back from acting, but it’s more like taking a breather. When a great idea comes along, or you get a chance to collaborate with people you love, it’s hard to say no.”

The Mask tells the story of Stanley Ipkiss (Carrey), a timid bank clerk who discovers a magical mask that transforms him into an outrageous, cartoonish alter ego with superhuman abilities. The movie also featured Cameron Diaz in her breakout role, as well as Peter Riegert.

Carrey’s openness to a sequel isn’t limited to The Mask. The actor recently told Comicbook.com he’d consider returning as the Grinch in a follow-up to How the Grinch Stole Christmas — but with one caveat: solving the challenges of the iconic costume.

“I’d be game for the Grinch again,” Carrey said, “if we could rework the costume. The prosthetics and makeup were a grueling process last time, and, honestly, that was harder than the actual performance.”

In the 2000 holiday classic, Carrey endured hours of preparation to transform into the Grinch, donning a full-body prosthetic suit and elaborate makeup that he once described as “torturous.”

Meanwhile, Carrey recently returned to one of his other iconic roles, reprising Dr. Robotnik in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, slated to hit theaters on Dec. 20. Speaking with the Associated Press about his involvement, he quipped, “I came back because, first off, playing a genius is a bit of a stretch for me. And, let’s be real, I’ve got a lot of bills to pay.”

Pete Davidson wants his reputation to rest on his work—but not too much of it.

The comedian and actor, best known for his time on Saturday Night Live, recently spoke with W Magazine about the challenges of staying relevant in Hollywood without becoming overexposed. Reflecting on his career, Davidson admitted he’s learned that success often means knowing when to step back.

“There’s a line in The Sopranos where Tony says, ‘You ever feel like you got into something at the end, when the good times were over?’ That’s how I feel about show business and being a celebrity. It’s over,” Davidson shared.

Early in his career, Davidson found it hard to turn down opportunities. “When you’re starting out, you’re hungry, and you say yes to everything. I made the mistake of doing too much,” he explained. “Now, I realize less is more. Look at Christian Bale—he’ll do one movie every two or three years, but you’ll definitely see it. Leonardo DiCaprio does one movie every four years, and it’s huge. It’s because people miss them. That’s the trick. People need to miss you.”

Davidson has built an impressive resume over the years. After eight seasons on SNL (he left in 2022), he starred in films like Bodies Bodies Bodies and the semi-autobiographical The King of Staten Island. But he’s also been the subject of intense media scrutiny, particularly around his high-profile relationships with stars like Ariana Grande, Kim Kardashian, and Madelyn Cline.

“I want to be known for doing good work,” Davidson said. “I want people to see me when it’s about a movie, stand-up, charity, or a business venture. That’s it. I don’t want to be the guy who’s only known for dating people. That’s not who I am. But people hate celebrities now.”

Davidson believes the media plays a role in shaping public perception. “Every few years, the media picks a few celebrities to tear apart. For some reason, I’ve been one of them. But in a strange way, it’s been a blessing. It forced me to take a step back and think about what I really want. Who am I? I’m just a guy from Staten Island who wanted to do stand-up. Everything else has been a bonus.”

Now starring in Bupkis, Davidson says he’s found peace with his career and personal life. “I’m in a good place mentally,” he said. Looking back, he feels grateful for the wake-up call he described as being “hit on the face with the Hollywood shovel.”

By focusing on quality over quantity, Davidson hopes to redefine how people see him—on his terms.

Will Smith has publicly rejected rumors suggesting any involvement in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ alleged controversial parties. These gatherings, often referred to as “freak-offs,” reportedly included sexual misconduct and the use of sex workers.

While performing in San Diego, Smith paused during his set to address the issue. “The world today makes it hard to know what’s real,” he said in a TikTok video shared by TMZ. “I’ve seen the memes. Some of it’s funny, but let me be clear: I’ve got nothing to do with Puffy. Y’all can stop with those memes.”

Smith, known for staying quiet about internet chatter, said he felt compelled to respond this time. “Usually, I don’t bother with nonsense. But this? Y’all are going too far,” he explained.

The actor continued, “I’ve got my own stuff to deal with. Don’t drag me into someone else’s drama. I haven’t been near that man or any of this so-called stupidity. If you hear someone say I’m involved, it’s a lie. I don’t even like baby oil.” This last comment referred to reports that large quantities of baby oil and lubricant were found during raids on Combs’ properties earlier this year.

Smith’s remarks come amid serious allegations against other figures in the music industry. A lawsuit recently accused Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, of raping a 13-year-old girl in 2000. The lawsuit also implicated Combs. The incident allegedly occurred during a house party following the MTV Video Music Awards.

Jay-Z denied the allegations in a detailed statement, urging the filing of a criminal complaint rather than a civil one. “Anyone guilty of such a crime should face justice,” he wrote. His lawyer later sought to dismiss the case, citing inconsistencies in the accuser’s claims. “This case is baseless and motivated by money and fame,” Carter stated. “Justice will prevail.”

Meanwhile, Combs faces charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. Arrested in September, he remains in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. His requests for bail have been denied, and his trial is scheduled for May.

Sources say Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, the Oscar-nominated duo behind Barbie, have started brainstorming a sequel to the $1.4 billion box office hit. However, representatives for Warner Bros. and the filmmakers deny that any official plans are in motion.

The massive success of Barbie sparked immediate questions about a follow-up. Warner Bros. and Mattel, buoyed by the film’s cultural impact in 2023, seemed ready to greenlight a sequel. Yet, Gerwig and Baumbach, who co-wrote the original film, have emphasized that any continuation would depend on finding a meaningful story.

In March 2024, while accepting Time’s Women of the Year honors, Gerwig explained her approach: “My guiding principle is to ask, ‘What do I deeply love? What’s the story beneath the story?’ If I can find that foundation, then it’s worth pursuing. If not, there’s no sequel.”

Now, a well-placed source has revealed that the pair has found that foundation. They’ve reportedly pitched an idea to Warner Bros., although everything remains in early stages. Another source with direct knowledge confirmed that story development has opened the door to preliminary deal discussions.

Representatives for Gerwig, Baumbach, and Warner Bros. pushed back on these reports. “There is no truth to this,” said the filmmakers’ rep, while Warner Bros. called the information “inaccurate.”

What’s Next for the Filmmakers

If the project moves forward, the next step would involve writing a script and aligning schedules. Baumbach is currently in post-production on an untitled Netflix coming-of-age film featuring an all-star cast, including George Clooney, Adam Sandler, Laura Dern, and Riley Keough. Gerwig is in pre-production for her Chronicles of Narnia adaptation for Netflix, which producer Amy Pascal recently described as “very rock and roll.”

According to one insider, Baumbach would start writing the sequel’s script, with the pair collaborating in their usual fashion—writing separately, exchanging drafts, and refining ideas together. During a 2023 Writers Guild Q&A, Gerwig described their process: “We write alone, share drafts, and see if the other person laughs.”

Details about the sequel’s story remain under wraps. Gerwig has been cautious about revealing ideas too soon. “If I share an idea early, it often loses its magic. That can hurt the movie,” she explained at the same Q&A.

Reflecting on Barbie’s Impact

Barbie, produced by Margot Robbie through her LuckyChap banner, received critical acclaim and earned eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. Robbie, who also starred as the titular Barbie, praised Gerwig’s vision. “Greta cracked the code for this film,” Robbie said in February. “Her creativity, humanity, and joy brought Barbie to life.”

The film won one Academy Award for Best Original Song, thanks to Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell’s “What Was I Made For?” It became a cultural touchstone, blending sharp storytelling with the legacy of an iconic toy.

Critics highlighted Gerwig and Baumbach’s script for its wit and insight. Writing for The Hollywood Reporter, Lovia Gyarkye called the screenplay “clever” and praised its exploration of Barbie’s complicated legacy.

The first film followed Barbie’s journey from the picture-perfect world of Barbieland to the real world, where she grappled with deeper questions about life and identity. The story struck a chord with audiences, setting a high bar for any sequel.

A Proven Creative Team

Gerwig and Baumbach’s past collaborations include Frances Ha and Mistress America. Gerwig also directed Lady Bird and Little Women, both of which earned Oscar nominations for their scripts. Baumbach’s extensive filmography includes Marriage Story and The Squid and the Whale, which brought him two Academy Award nods.

Given the success of Barbie, a sequel seems less like a question of “if” and more about “when.” As Gerwig noted before the first film’s release, “There’s a tone, a humor, and a joy to this world. I’d love to go back to Barbieland.”

Denzel Washington commands attention wherever he goes. As he approaches his 70th birthday on December 28, the two-time Oscar winner reflects on his legendary career and embarks on a new chapter—one marked by groundbreaking roles, mentoring new talent, and prioritizing health.

Washington recently spoke with Variety’s Awards Circuit Podcast about his personal and professional journey. “It’s been a two-year process to get healthier,” he shared. “At the Oscars, I looked at myself and decided it was time for a change. With the help of trainer Doug Romero, I’ve made progress. This is my birthday gift to myself—feeling good when I look in the mirror.”

In Ridley Scott’s upcoming “Gladiator II,” Washington takes on the role of Macrinus, a former slave turned scheming villain. Reuniting with Scott after their collaboration on “American Gangster” (2007), Washington described the trust he places in the veteran director. “With Ridley, you’re in it. You don’t overthink. You trust him to craft the final product,” he said.

The film also features rising stars like Paul Mescal and Fred Hechinger. Washington is energized by working alongside younger actors. “Ridley’s casting is impeccable,” he said. “Fred and Paul bring such vitality to the set. My role is to support and guide them where I can.”

Beyond acting, Washington continues to excel as a director. His critically acclaimed work includes “Fences” (2016), where he became the first Black director to earn an acting nomination for a film he helmed. Most recently, he produced “The Piano Lesson,” directed by his son Malcolm Washington. “Watching Malcolm’s growth as a filmmaker makes me incredibly proud,” he said. “Adapting August Wilson’s work is no small feat, but Malcolm delivered.”

Denzel’s pride in his family extends beyond professional achievements. At a recent event, he eagerly shared a trailer for “The Piano Lesson” that Malcolm edited himself. “Look at that!” he said with fatherly pride. “Isn’t it great?”

As for his future projects, Washington will star in “High and Low Man,” a collaboration with longtime partner Spike Lee. “Spike’s vision is extraordinary,” Washington said. “I’ll be reviewing the cut soon, and I know it’ll be special.”

While rumors about “Black Panther 3” swirl, Washington remains tight-lipped. “Ryan Coogler is brilliant,” he said. “I apologized for letting slip about the project. He’s humble and full of ideas. Whatever he writes, I’ll read.”

Reflecting on his career, Washington acknowledges the challenges he faced as a Black actor. “Roles for us weren’t always great,” he said. “We were often sidelined. But things have changed, and I’ve had opportunities to tell meaningful stories.”

With nine Oscar nominations and two wins, Washington’s legacy is unmatched. Yet, he’s not ready to slow down. “Retirement isn’t imminent, but it’ll come eventually. Until then, I’m focused on working with great directors and sharing impactful stories,” he said.

As he approaches his milestone birthday, Washington prioritizes health and family. “I’ve been training, eating better, and simplifying my life,” he said. “Clearing out 40 years’ worth of stuff was liberating. Watching my family grow is the greatest reward.”

Also in this Awards Circuit episode, actor Jharrel Jerome discusses his role in “Unstoppable,” and the team analyzes the Golden Globes nominations and emerging Oscar contenders.

Tom Holland has launched a new production company, Billy17, signing a producing deal with Sony Pictures. He is joined in this venture by Harry Holland and Will South.

The first project under the Billy17 banner is an original film titled “Burnt,” developed by the trio. Rodney Rothman, the Academy Award-winning writer of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” will pen the screenplay. While plot details remain under wraps, the film is set to feature Tom Holland in the lead role.

Billy17 has additional projects in the works with Sony Pictures. These include an adaptation of Graeme Simsion’s bestselling novel “The Rosie Project” for TriStar Pictures. This production will also involve Matt Tolmach and Michael Costigan from Jason Bateman’s Aggregate Films. Another upcoming project is an adaptation of Teddy Wayne’s novel “The Winner,” which Holland will star in and produce alongside Amy Pascal.

“I’ve had a strong and positive relationship with Sony Pictures for almost a decade, so partnering with them for this new venture felt natural,” said Tom Holland. “Starting Billy17 has been a long-time goal, and we’re excited to create movies that are both entertaining and rewatchable. Our first project, ‘Burnt,’ has been on our minds for years, and having Rodney involved as the writer is incredible. We’re fully committed and eager to see what’s next.”

Tom Rothman, chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, commented, “Tom, Harry, and Will bring fresh ideas and the energy to make them happen. Extending our partnership with Tom, who has already been instrumental in our success, is a fantastic step. Beyond his acting talent, this new venture highlights his potential as a producer. We’re committed to these new projects and look forward to more in the future.”

Holland’s collaboration with Sony Pictures has been highly successful. He starred in and executive produced “Uncharted,” which earned $407 million globally and became the fourth highest-grossing video game adaptation in the U.S. He also played a key role in the “Spider-Man” trilogy directed by Jon Watts, which has collectively made nearly $4 billion worldwide. The latest film in the series, “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” grossed $1.9 billion globally, making it the seventh highest-grossing movie of all time worldwide and Sony’s most successful release to date.

Billy17 is represented by WME and Sloane, Offer, Weber, Dern. Tom Holland is represented by WME, Shelter PR, and Sloane, Offer, Weber, Dern.

A stay-at-home dad in Ventura County has uncovered a rare collection of unreleased Michael Jackson recordings from the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Gregg Musgrove, a former California Highway Patrol officer turned full-time parent, never expected his hobby of buying storage units would lead him to a treasure trove of unreleased tracks by the King of Pop. The discovery came when Musgrove acquired a storage unit in Van Nuys, California, previously owned by music producer and singer Bryan Loren, whose current whereabouts are unknown.

The storage unit contained cassette and DAT tapes featuring 12 unreleased songs recorded by Jackson between 1989 and 1991, during the early phases of his work on the album Dangerous. According to Musgrove, some of the tracks had been rumored among fans, while others had never been mentioned or leaked.

“I’ve gone through all the fan sites. Some of these songs are known, but a few are completely unheard of,” Musgrove told The Hollywood Reporter. “Hearing Michael Jackson talk and joke during the recording process gave me goosebumps.”

Musgrove’s inventory includes unreleased songs and snippets of additional tracks, accompanied by discussions between Jackson and Loren about their creative process. Among the songs is “Don’t Believe It,” which appears to address the media rumors that surrounded Jackson. Another track, “Seven Digits,” references the identification numbers used in morgues, with Jackson explaining its meaning in detail.

One of the most unique recordings is “Truth on Youth,” a rap duet between Jackson and LL Cool J. The rapper has previously confirmed working with Jackson, and this song highlights Jackson’s rare venture into rapping.

Despite the excitement surrounding the tapes, fans hoping to hear them may be disappointed. Musgrove approached the Jackson Estate earlier this year, but the Estate declined to purchase the recordings. While they provided Musgrove with a letter confirming that they do not claim ownership of the physical tapes, they emphasized that the copyright for the music remains with the Estate. This means the recordings cannot be released commercially.

A representative for the Estate clarified that the recordings on the tapes are not new discoveries. “The Estate of Michael Jackson was presented with DAT copies, not master recordings. The master recordings are already housed in the Estate’s vaults,” the representative said. “Ownership and rights to exploit the recordings remain with MJJP Records, and no commercial use can be made of the copies.”

Musgrove and his team estimate the collection’s value to be in the seven-figure range. He plans to take the tapes to major auction houses, hoping to attract collectors of Michael Jackson memorabilia. High-profile collectors, such as Lady Gaga, who has purchased dozens of Jackson items at auction, may find the tapes appealing for private ownership.

Currently, the tapes are stored in a secure facility managed by Musgrove’s attorney.

This story first appeared in the Dec. 13 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.

A new TV series, “The Good Daughter,” is set to begin filming in metro Atlanta in early 2025. The drama is based on Karin Slaughter’s 2017 bestselling novel and will air as a limited series on Peacock.

Production is scheduled to start on March 18 and wrap by the end of June, according to IATSE 479, the union representing most crew members. Actress Rose Byrne is attached to the project, though no other cast members have been announced.

Jessica Biel, initially tied to the series, left the project earlier this year.

Byrne, known for her roles in Damages, Bridesmaids, Neighbors, and Physical, has previously worked in Atlanta. She filmed Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising in the area in 2015.

While the union confirmed the series will be shot in Atlanta, the specific studio location has not been disclosed. Recent Peacock productions in the area include Fight Night and Teacup at Assembly Studios in Doraville, as well as Hysteria! at Three Ring Studios in Covington.

Slaughter, an Atlanta-based author, has seen her work adapted for screen before. Her book series Will Trent inspired the ABC drama of the same name, which stars Ramon Rodriguez and Erika Christensen. That show returns for its third season on January 7. Another of her books, Pieces of Her, was adapted into a Netflix limited series starring Toni Collette in 2022.

“The Good Daughter” centers on two sisters, Charlotte and Samantha, who are grappling with the aftermath of their mother’s murder 28 years earlier. When a new violent attack occurs in the present, Charlotte—now a lawyer and the first witness—must confront her past as the case reveals shocking truths.