Liam Payne to feature posthumously in Netflix talent show

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One Direction star Liam Payne will feature posthumously as a guest judge in a forthcoming Netflix talent competition, which was recorded before his death, according to reports.

Building The Band, which matches up singers to form bands without seeing each other, was announced in September in the streaming giant before Payne died on 16 October, aged 31, after falling from a third-floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Netflix has revealed that Backstreet Boys star AJ McLean will host the series, while Pussycat Dolls star Nicole Scherzinger will take on the mentor and judge role, while Destiny’s Child star Kelly Rowland was planned to be joining Payne as a guest judge.

It’s unconfirmed whether the series will air with scenes including Payne. The Independent has contacted Netflix for comment.

Scherzinger was a judge on The X Factor when Payne auditioned in 2010 as a solo contestant before he was grouped with bandmates Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson to form One Direction.

The Netflix show will operate using a similar concept to Love Is Blind, where contestants are kept separate in booths but can still hear each other.

Building The Band was one of Payne’s final projects, along with the track “Do No Wrong” with North Carolina singer Sam Pounds.

Pounds later delayed the release of the new music, saying he wanted Payne’s “family to mourn in peace and in prayer”.

Netflix has not announced a release date but confirmed the series during the launch of new TV and film content for 2025.

The show’s synopsis says: “All they have to go on is musical compatibility, connection, chemistry and merit… with incredible performances, compelling drama, and one big goal – to find the next great music band – the stage is set for an unforgettable experience.”

In December, five people, including the late singer’s friend Roger Nores, the hotel’s manager, and a receptionist were charged in connection to Payne’s death, Argentina’s National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor’s Office said in a previous statement.

Two others, hotel employee Ezequiel Pereyra and waiter Braian Paiz, were been charged with supplying cocaine.

Nores has made a legal complaint in the US against Payne’s father, Geoff Payne, claiming that the singer’s father made “false and defamatory” statements about him to authorities, which led to his arrest for manslaughter having “abandoned” the singer “knowing that he was incapable of fending for himself”.

Court documents filed in Florida in January claim that Nores and the singer had a “dear mutual friendship” but insisted he “never had a legal duty of care” towards him.

French rapist Dominique Pelicot questioned over 1990s cases

Dominique Pelicot has denied involvement in a 1991 rape and murder case, but has admitted to a 1999 attempted rape – Copyright SANA/AFP –

Frenchman Dominique Pelicot, convicted in December for organising the rape of his then wife Gisele Pelicot by dozens of strangers, was being questioned Thursday by an investigating magistrate over an attempted rape, as well as a rape and murder, in the 1990s, his lawyer said.

Pelicot, 72, who was sentenced in December to 20 years for aggravated rape, is being questioned over a rape and murder in Paris in 1991 and an attempted rape in the Seine-et-Marne region outside the capital in 1999, his lawyer Beatrice Zavarro said.

She said the investigation, being handled by a unit in the Paris suburb of Nanterre dedicated to “cold cases”, had been going on since October 2022 and Dominique Pelicot had already been interrogated in October 2023.

He has denied involvement in the 1991 rape and murder case but has admitted to the 1999 attempted rape after he was identified by his DNA.

These dates are well before the near decade from 2011 to 2020 during which Pelicot invited dozens of strangers, whom he had recruited online, to the family home in the town of Mazan in southern France to rape his heavily sedated wife Gisele.

The 20-year gap between these crimes has sparked fears that Pelicot could have committed other acts in the interim that have not yet come to light.

His ex-wife Gisele Pelicot has been hailed as a hero for her courage and dignity in the over-three-month trial that ended in December with all 51 defendants, including her ex-husband and the men he enlisted to rape her, being convicted.

– ‘Little bottle of ether’ –

During his trial, Dominique Pelicot confessed to the 1999 attempted rape.

“It was indeed me,” he said. “I took off her T-shirt, her shoes and her trousers but I didn’t do anything.”

But he denied having played a role in the murder and rape of Sophie Narme, a real estate agent killed in Paris in 1991.

“I have nothing to do with that case,” he said, despite the similarities in the two cases, with both the victims young real estate agents aged 23, who were visited by a man under a false name to view an apartment.

The two women were undressed from below in the same way.

A strong smell of ether — an anaesthetic historically used in surgery — was also noted at the crime scene around Sophie Narme, and the substance had been used to attack the young woman in 1999.

“I had a little bottle of ether in the car and a piece of string,” he said of the attempted rape case during his trial.

Asked why he fled, he said: “I had a mental block, thinking it could have been my daughter,” he said.

Pelicot’s daughter, Caroline Darian, would have been in her early twenties at the time.

Darian, now 46, believes she was also drugged and raped by Pelicot after seeing pictures of her unconscious body, wearing underwear she did not recognise, were found among the detailed records her father kept of his crimes.

She told the BBC this month that he “should die in prison” as he was “a dangerous man”.

Among the 50 others sentenced in December, 14 have appealed.

Dominique Pelicot could thus again appear in court, but as a witness, during an appeals trial later this year in front of a jury, according to a prosecutor in the southern city of Nimes.

Unseen Liam Payne footage to air in Netflix show months after tragic hotel death

Liam Payne will feature in a new Netflix talent competition series recorded before his tragic death.

The One Direction star died aged 31 on October 16 last year after falling from the balcony of his third floor hotel room in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Liam died from multiple injuries sustained from the fall and suffered “internal and external bleeding”.

The singer will appear in the show – titled Building The Band – alongside Pussycat Dolls star Nicole Scherzinger and Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Rowland. Netflix confirmed Scherzinger will take on the mentor and judge role, and Payne and Rowland will be guest judges.

The programme, which aims to find the “next great pop group”, has a similar concept to Love Is Blind with contestants are kept in separate booths. It will bring together singers to form bands without seeing each other.

Netflix confirmed the release as it announced its 2025 slate of releases across TV and film. Kelly and Nicole both spoke about what it was like working with Liam before he died.

Kelly told People: “Liam is absolutely hilarious. I didn’t know how funny he was, so I’m getting to know him, and he is so cool.”

Nicole shared snaps of her and Kelly with Payne and paid a heartfelt tribute to the singer. She wrote: “I will forever cherish and treasure the time we shared together, from fifteen years ago when One Direction was born, right up until just a few weeks ago.

“It was such a blessing to get to work with you recently. We shared the same love and passion for music and I will forever remember the meaningful and joyful conversations we had.”

“It’s been so hard to process that you’re no longer here, but I am grateful to have known your kind heart, sweet soul and character. You brought so much joy, light, and laughter to the lives of those that truly knew you. I will “miss you” my friend and carry you in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.”

Scherzinger was a judge on The X Factor when Payne auditioned in 2010 and, she played a key part in forming One Direction. Building The Band was one of Liam’s last projects, along with the track Do No Wrong with North Carolina singer Sam Pounds.

Pounds later delayed the release of the track as he wanted Payne’s “family to mourn in peace and in prayer”. In November, Payne’s funeral in Buckinghamshire was attended by Cheryl, mother to their son Bear, and Liam’s fellow One Direction stars Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson.

The circumstances around Payne’s death at the Casa Sur Hotel is being investigated by the Public Prosecutor’s Office in Argentina. Five people have been charged in connection with his death.

This included the singer’s friend Roger Nores, the hotel’s manager, and a receptionist – who were all accused of manslaughter. Two others, a hotel employee and a waiter, were charged with supplying cocaine to the singer.

A hearing was held by Buckinghamshire Coroner’s Court in December to determine how Payne died. It has been adjourned until a pre-inquest review on November 6.

Nores, who says he is innocent, has made a legal complaint against Payne’s father, Geoff Payne – claiming “false” sworn declarations to Argentine officials. Court documents filed in Florida in January claim Nores and Payne had a “dear mutual friendship” but insisted he “never had a legal duty of care” towards him.

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10 Functional Fitness Moves for Daily Life Mastery

Functional fitness isn’t just a trend—it’s the cornerstone of a lifestyle that gears you up for life’s daily challenges with confidence and ease. Let’s dive into how you can harness the power of functional fitness to enhance your day-to-day activities.

First up, master your bodyweight movements. Think push-ups, squats, and lunges—they’re the bread and butter of functional exercises that mimic the actions you do every day. Whether you’re lifting groceries or getting up from the couch, these moves prepare your muscles for anything life throws at you.

Next, embrace core stability. A robust core isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s your powerhouse for balance and coordination. Planks and twists should be your go-to exercises, fortifying your midsection to tackle tasks with precision.

Don’t forget the magic of multi-joint exercises. Deadlifts and overhead presses—compound movements that work multiple muscle groups at once—turn your workouts into efficient routines that maximize strength and coordination.

Prioritizing flexibility and mobility is non-negotiable. Integrate yoga and dynamic stretches into your routine to keep your joints agile and ward off injuries. Your future self will thank you as you move with the fluidity of a seasoned athlete.

Functional cardio? Yes, please. Swap dull treadmill trudges for exciting adventures like hikes or a friendly game of basketball. These activities engage your body in diverse movements, making your heart work smarter, not harder.

Let balance training take center stage. Incorporate single-leg stands and yoga balance poses to refine your stability—perfect for navigating uneven surfaces or mastering the art of multitasking without a wobble.

Ready for real-world challenges? Tackle activities like rock climbing or obstacle courses. These not only test your functional prowess but also add an element of fun to your fitness journey—breaking the monotony of conventional workouts.

Have a knack for creativity? Adapt workouts to suit your environment. Use household items for resistance training, or take your routine outdoors for a refreshing change of scenery—think park benches for incline push-ups.

Practice the mind-body connection. Pay attention to your breathing and form during exercises. This focus not only enhances efficiency but also prevents injuries, cementing your functional fitness foundation.

Finally, consistency is key. Continuously challenge your body by incrementally increasing the intensity and complexity of your routines. This progressive approach ensures that you’re always advancing, turning potential plateaus into new peaks.

Embark on your functional fitness journey today, and watch as your everyday tasks become effortlessly manageable—proof that you’re not just living, but thriving with purpose and power.

8 Simple Habits to Boost Daily Wellness

Boosting Physical Wellness: Simple Daily Practices

In a world that never hits pause, taking charge of your physical wellness might feel like a juggling act. But fret not—there’s a blueprint waiting to elevate your health game. It’s all about integrating simple yet effective practices into your daily routine. Here’s how you can make it happen:

Rise and Shine with Stretching

As the sun peeks over the horizon, gear up for the day with a series of dynamic stretches. By gently warming up your muscles, you’re not just banishing the morning stiffness—you’re setting the tone for an active and energized day.

Harness the Power of Hydration

Never underestimate the mighty sip! Keeping a water bottle within arm’s reach ensures you’re consistently hydrated. With every sip, you’re fueling your body, keeping fatigue at bay, and igniting your energy levels.

Make Movement a Must

Static postures are out—movement is in. Integrate short bursts of activity into your day, whether it’s a set of squats, a brisk walk, or a spontaneous dance break. These mini-movements keep your body agile and your metabolism revved.

Fuel Up with Balanced Meals

Your body deserves the best—so focus on meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and whole grains. These nutritional powerhouses deliver sustained energy and support your body’s performance, helping you tackle any challenge that comes your way.

Unplug and Unwind

In a digital age, the screen is often our relentless companion. Gift yourself a daily digital detox—allow your eyes and mind a break from the blue light, giving space for relaxation and mental clarity.

Prioritize Restful Sleep

An evening ritual that signals it’s time to power down is invaluable. Whether it’s a calming tea, a good book, or gentle stretches, create a bedtime routine that lulls you into rejuvenating slumber.

Cultivate a Mindful Moment

Amidst the hustle, carve out calm. Engage in mindfulness practices to ground yourself, reducing stress and enhancing mental well-being. With every mindful breath, you’re building resilience against life’s chaos.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Nature’s magic is a mighty balm—don’t disregard it. Step outside, breathe deeply, and let the fresh air invigorate your senses. Nature’s vitality can uplift your spirit and renew your zest for life.

Incorporate these practices into your daily routine—and witness the transformative power they can hold. Remember, physical wellness isn’t a distant goal—it’s a vibrant journey. So, lace up, hydrate, and take those first steps toward a more energized you!

7 Steps to Transform Your Oral Hygiene Game

Listen up, folks! Let’s talk about something we often sweep under the rug—oral hygiene. You might think it’s no more than a chore, but here’s the deal: embracing a few powerful habits can redefine your overall wellbeing. So, gear up and let’s dive into the mighty world of effective oral hygiene!

Floss Regularly

— Flossing is not just some tiresome ritual your dentist nags about—it’s your secret weapon against inflammation. We’ve all heard whispers about flossing’s role in preventing cavities, but its saga goes deeper, involving the heart and brain by staving off harmful inflammation. Consider it an investment in your future.

Choose the Right Toothbrush

— A toothbrush may look innocuous, but it’s your frontline soldier. Opt for a soft-bristled version to protect your gums and enamel while scrubbing away pesky bacteria. The right brush can make the difference between a gleaming smile and a dental disaster.

Use Mouthwash Wisely

— This isn’t your run-of-the-mill swish-and-spit operation. Pick an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep your oral environment moist and inhospitable to bad bacteria. It’s all about outsmarting the microscopic villains that threaten your mouth’s peace.

Keep an Eye on Your Diet

— Your diet is a two-edged sword—wield it wisely. High-sugar foods are feasts for bacteria, turning your mouth into their personal playground. Turn the tables with crunchy fruits and veggies; Mother Nature’s toothbrushes that clean as you chew, providing a gratifying crunch in every bite.

Stay Hydrated

— Water is more than just a thirst-quencher—it’s the unsung hero of oral hygiene. Let it flush away food particles and bacteria, ensuring your saliva does its job. A hydrated mouth is a happy mouth, and an indispensable line of defense.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

— Your dentist isn’t just searching for cavities—they’re your lookout, identifying issues before they become costly nightmares. Regular checkups ensure your pearly whites remain as pristine as they deserve to be.

There you have it! Simple yet transformative habits that reframe oral hygiene from a mundane task to an exciting journey towards better health. Grab your floss, wield your toothbrush, and embark on an odyssey of oral excellence. Let’s make those smiles radiant and those gums singing songs of glee!

Comedian Ken Flores dies aged 28 while on tour as tributes paid

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Comedian Ken Flores has tragically passed away at the age of 28 amidst his tour. The Chicago-based comedian was in the middle of his 33-date Butterfly Effect tour across the US and was set to perform in Phoenix, Arizona today.

His family released a poignant statement: “It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our friend, brother, and son, Kenyi Flores.”

“Please respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss.”

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office stated that Flores died at home on Tuesday from cardiac arrest, as reported by TMZ, though an official cause of death has not been disclosed by his family. Flores had last performed on January 25 in Norcross, Georgia, with his tour scheduled to continue until April 19.

In one of his recent social media updates, Flores discussed his tour and decision to go sober: “So I started my tour a couple weeks ago and I’m proud to say I’ve done every single show. 5 in Portland 1 in Albuquerque and 4 in Atlanta without a single drop of alcohol. Nervous for Phoenix next weekend but I think I got it I’m not sober just wanna chill a bit.”, reports the Mirror.

Flores rose to fame through his YouTube videos, which often went viral, and he built up a significant following on Instagram, TikTok, and X. At 22, while working at PNC Bank, he began performing at open mic nights at Comedy Shrine.

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“If you get that one big pop, you get bit by the standup bug and you’re addicted. Ever since I went up the first time, I couldn’t stop,” he once told Comedy Gazelle. Tributes have been streaming in for Flores after the tragic news broke.

Comedian Neema Naz remarked: “I was hoping this wasn’t real. What a tragic and devastating loss to the world. Ken was a gem and was going to be a star one day. RIP.”

Darren Carter shared: “Always happy to see and hang with him backstage. May his memory be a blessing.”

The Hollywood Improv group expressed: “We were honored to give him a stage to share his talent. Sending so much love to his family and the comedy community.”

Musicians Los Desvelados stated: “Ken Thank you for all amazing times the laughter the jokes, you will be missed RIP.”

Flores was not only a regular on the podcast circuit but also toured with his comedy acts. He featured on Netflix’s ‘Is a Daily Joke’ and had filmed his debut comedy special in December, which is awaiting release.

Alongside fellow comedian René Humberto Valdiviezo, Flores co-created the LatinXL comedy show, aiming to boost Latino representation in the comedy industry.

The show paid tribute, stating: “LATINXL came from an idea over late night pre-pandemic convos and backyard covid shows to do something together – to break Latinos into opportunities that would usually be hard to land… while also getting our own stage to refine our comedy and enjoy our friendship while chasing our dreams. We were so proud of Ken when he made it in his dream as a kid from Aurora.”

They added: “We were always rooting for him and continued to share stages to present day. LatinXL WOULD NOT exist without Ken. The XL was a nod to Ken for having an ‘XTRA large personality’ and being such a force…which crowds all over the country would inevitably love.”

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Anthony Mackie looks stylish at the Captain America photocall

Anthony Mackie looked stylish as he joined co-star Harrison Ford at the Captain America: Brave New World photocall in Trafalgar Square, London, on Thursday.

The 46-year-old Avengers: Endgame star, whose character Sam Wilson has taken over the iconic Captain America mantle in the latest film, cut a dapper figure in an olive green Burberry trench coat.

He layered it with a beige jacket, dark green jumper, and a pair of smart black trousers.

Meanwhile, Harrison, who plays Thaddeus Ross in the movie, donned a navy suit over a light blue shirt.

The 82-year-old actor appeared in high spirits as he posed for snaps on the carpet and also took a moment to interact with fans.

Also at the photocall was Danny Ramirez, 32, wearing an all black ensemble consisting of a long coat, knitted roll neck jumper, wide leg jeans, and smart shoes.

Anthony Mackie looked stylish as he joined co-star Harrison Ford at the Captain America: Brave New World photocall in Trafalgar Square, London, on Thursday

The 46-year-old Avengers: Endgame star, whose character Sam Wilson has taken over the iconic Captain America mantle in the latest film, cut a dapper figure in a green Burberry trench

Captain America director Julius Onah, 41, was also in attendance along with co producer Nate Moore, 41.

It comes after Anthony was forced to clarify comments he made about his upcoming Marvel film after they stoked outrage from some fans on social media.

The actor ignited online outrage after speaking about what the character signified to him during a press conference in Rome on Monday.

‘To me Captain America represents a lot of different things and I don’t think the term “America: should be one of those representations…’ he said.

‘It’s about a man who keeps his word, who has honor, dignity and integrity. Someone who is trustworthy and dependable.’

The actors comments quickly became fodder for outraged posts on social media, particularly from conservative posters and right-wing pundits.

Mackie — who may find himself dueling for the Captain America name with former Marvel star Chris Evans in the future — took to his Instagram stories on Tuesday afternoon to try to clarify his statement.

‘Let me be clear about this, I’m a proud American and taking on the shield of a hero like CAP is the honor of a lifetime,’ he wrote in a simple text post.

He layered his chic coat with a beige jacket, dark green jumper, and a pair of smart black trousers as he posed up a storm on the blue carpet

Meanwhile, Harrison, who plays Thaddeus Ross in the movie, donned a navy suit over a light blue shirt

The 82-year-old appeared in high spirits as he posed for snaps on the carpet and also took a moment to interact with fans

Also at the photocall was Danny Ramirez, 32, wearing an all black ensemble consisting of a long coat, knitted roll neck jumper, wide leg jeans, and smart shoes

Danny, Harrison, and Anthony posed together

Captain America director Julius Onah (left), 41, was also in attendance along with co producer Nate Moore (right), 41

(L-R) Danny, Harrison, Anthony, and Julius all posed together

‘I have the utmost respect for those who serve and have served our country. CAP has universal characteristics that people all over the world can relate to,’ Mackie concluded.

Anthony’s original comments seemed to infuriate several users on X (formerly Twitter), though plenty of fans of Captain America comics pointed out that his comments were in line with things the superhero himself has said.

‘That makes me not want to watch it now,’ another user said of the new film, while one person said Mackie’s comments were ‘wild.’

One commenter joked that Anthony’s comments were ‘sure to sit well with your American audience.’

Several fans claimed that it was self-evident that Anthony was incorrect, because ‘America’ was part of his character’s name.

‘”Where does it say Captain America represents America?” In the name, “Captain America,”‘ wrote on user, who included a gif of right-wing pundit Ben Shapiro.

‘Too bad captain america doesn’t seem pro america,’ bemoaned another fan.

Others suggested Anthony was incorrect because Captain America’s costume and shield reference the American flag.

It comes after Anthony was forced to clarify comments he made about his upcoming Marvel film after they stoked outrage from some fans on social media; seen Monday in Rome

‘To me Captain America represents a lot of different things and I don’t think the term “America: should be one of those representations…’ he said (pictured in the film)

‘And this is why the movie will do poorly,’ predicted one upset poster.

One user went so far as to call for Marvel to bring back the previous Captain America.

‘Bring back Steve [Rogers],’ this guys a moron and never watched the first movie,’ they wrote. ‘Captain America is a veteran. What a stupid take.’

But other fans, many of whom cited examples from Captain America comics, not just the more recent Marvel films, agreed with Anthony and suggested a skepticism of blind patriotism was a hallmark of modern incarnations of the character.

‘This is quite literally regarded as one of Roger’s best speeches of all time,’ wrote one fan who included a cell from a Captain America in which the hero spoke about the importance of standing up for his values, even if they conflicted with the sentiment of the American public and government.

‘If you disagree with Mackie, you quite literally do not understand the character of Captain America. He’ll fight America just as quick as he’s to fight in the name of it.’

Another fan pointed out that earlier Captain America films showed the character — then played by Chris Evans — showing skepticism toward the American government that was ultimately shown to be warranted.

‘Captain America 2 and 3 were about Captain America directly going against the US government because they made poor choices based on incomplete information,’ they wrote. ‘He’s not a propaganda-spewing mouthpiece and is in fact the direct opposite. So yeah Anthony Mackie is right.’

‘I have the utmost respect for those who serve and have served our country. CAP has universal characteristics that people all over the world can relate to,’ Anthony clarified on Tuesday

Read More Captain America: Brave New World trailer

Another person pointed out how absurd it was that ‘people [are] made at this when 2/3 of the Captain America trilogy involve him fighting AGAINST the American government…’

Anthony was clearly a fan of the character, and he said playing Captain America was like an ‘aspect of a dream coming true’ at the press conference on Monday.

In Captain America: Brave New World, Mackie’s title character finds himself thrust into an international conspiracy after a meeting with the newly elected President Thaddeus Ross, who is played by Harrison Ford in his Marvel movie debut.

Plot details about the standalone film have been scarce, but trailers for the movie indicate that Captain America will have a showdown with Ross when the president transforms into the monumental Red Hulk and proceeds to demolish the White House.

Captain America: Brave New World is slated to arrive in theaters February 14, 2025, in what’s shaping up to be a critical release for Marvel after recent movies such as Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Eternals and The Marvels underwhelmed in critic reviews and box office revenues.

The release date of the movie was delayed due to last year’s entertainment industry strikes, according to Variety.

Netflix Is Rebooting a Classic Western TV Series With ‘The Boys’ Writer

From Vought Industries to the prairie? The writer and producer on Amazon Prime’s hit supehero satire show The Boys, Rebecca Sonnenshine, is officially bringing fans back to a certain small house on the prairie. With the massively popular superhero series coming to a close, Sonnenshine has set her sights on her next exciting project. Known for her work on Vampire Diaries and Archive 81, the writer is resurrecting an old favorite, family-friendly TV Western for Netflix: Little House on the Prairie .

According to Variety, Netflix recently greenlit a modern reboot of the American classic book series, Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House on the Prairie, which was a hit NBC show in the 70s, starring Michael Landon and Melissa Gilbert. Wanting to adapt the books more closely as a long-time fan of Wilder’s work, Sonnenshine will act as showrunner and executive producer of the new Western series. Sonnenshine told the outlet how she hopes to honor both fans of the books and of the TV show.

“I fell deeply in love with these books when I was five years old. They inspired me to become a writer and a filmmaker, and I am honored and thrilled to be adapting these stories for a new global audience with Netflix.”

This Could Be the Perfect Time for a Family-Friendly Western Close

With more than 73 million copies of the beloved books being sold to date and over 200 episodes of the original NBC series, the new take on the classic is bound to draw a crowd. The original series was even one of the most streamed shows of 2024, according to Variety. Other executive producers include Joy Gorman Wettels of Joy Coalition and Trip Friendly of Friendly Family Productions, son of the original series’ executive producer Ed Friendly, as well as Dana Fox, and Susanna Fogel. The new series’ logline reads:

“Part hopeful family drama, part epic survival tale, and part origin story of the American West, this fresh adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s iconic semi-autobiographical ‘Little House’ books offers a kaleidoscopic view of the struggles and triumphs of those who shaped the frontier.”

Netflix has had recent success in the Westerns department with the hit miniseries American Primeval, starring Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin, and with the impressive streaming numbers for Little House on the Prairie the re-adaptation is surely a no-brainer. Also based off of real life stories, Little House on the Prairie will strive to corner a market that has been dry since the original series ended in 1983. Audiences have plenty of hard-hitting, Western thrillers and dramas, but not many family-friendly Westerns.

Related Little House on the Prairie Cast, 50 Years Later: Where They Are Today

Little House on the Prairie debuted in 1974, and with multiple children in the cast, it’s interesting to see where they all are now, 50 years later.

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While most of Netflix’s Westerns are not for kids, their next project certainly will be. Jinny Howe, the vice president of drama series for Netflix, told the outlet about their excitement to fill this gap for Western-lovers.

“‘Little House on the Prairie’ has captured the hearts and imaginations of so many fans around the world, and we’re excited to share its enduring themes of hope and optimism with a fresh take on this iconic story. Rebecca’s vision threads the needle with an emotional depth that will delight both new and existing fans of this beloved classic.”

With another Western drama titled The Abdandons in the works, Netlfix is staking their claim in the Western show market. Fans of Wilder’s books based off of her childhood on the prairie will no doubt be excited to have a caring showrunner with a love for the source material spearheading the reboot of the American classic. Going from superheros beating the hell out of each other to a family making a life out on the prairie, Sonnenshine has her work cut out for her.

Your Rating close 10 stars 9 stars 8 stars 7 stars 6 stars 5 stars 4 stars 3 stars 2 stars 1 star Rate Now 0/10 Little House on the Prairie TV-PG WesternDramaFamily Release Date 1974 – 1982 Cast Melissa Gilbert Dean Butler Karen Grassle

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Mira Sorvino and Lisa Kudrow Are Reuniting for a Sequel to Their Cult Comedy

A sequel to Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion is getting ever-closer to becoming a reality. Original stars Lisa Kudrow and Mira Sorvino are in final negotiations to reprise their roles, and the project has now found a director, as well. The Hollywood Reporter has the news that Tim Federle has been attached to the project at 20th Century Studios.

In addition to starring, Kudrow and Sorvino are also attached to executive produce the sequel to the 1997 cult classic comedy. The sequel has been in the works for years, with both Kudrow and Sorvino expressing interest in revisiting the film. Federle is a novelist and playwright; he wrote the script for the animated film Ferdinand, and created and showran High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. He made his feature directorial debut in 2022 with the Disney+ musical Better Nate Than Ever. The movie is tentatively scheduled to start filming in June in Los Angeles, but nothing is set in stone yet. Robin Schiff (Emily in Paris), who wrote the original film and created the Romy and Michele characters in the stage play Ladies Room, has written the sequel’s script; it will be produced by Laurence Marks and Barry Kemp.

What Is ‘Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion’ About?

Directed by The Simpsons’ David Mirkin, Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion follows Romy (Sorvino) and Michele (Kudrow), two lifelong friends who were relentlessly bullied in high school. Now single, living together, and decidedly unambitious, they decide to attend their tenth high school reunion after a chance encounter with former classmate Heather (Janeane Garofalo). Desperate to impress their one-time social betters, especially cheerleader Christie (Julia Campbell) and her now-husband Billy (Vincent Ventresca), they reinvent themselves as successful businesswomen and claim to have invented the Post-It note. However, their deceptions are quickly uncovered, and they become outcasts again until the arrival of nerd-turned-millionaire Sandy Frink (Alan Cumming) changes everything. The film also stars Camryn Manheim, Elaine Hendrix, and Justin Theroux.

While a modest success at the box office, making $29 million USD on a $20 million budget, the film became a cult classic on home video, thanks to its oddball humor, a soundtrack of 1980s hits, and the unconventional fashion sense of its main characters. Schiff also wrote and directed a 2005 TV movie prequel, Romy and Michele: In the Beginning, which starred Katherine Heigl and Alexandra Breckenridge as the duo.

A sequel to Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion is in development; no release date has yet been announced. Stay tuned to Collider for future updates.

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Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion

R

Comedy

Release Date April 25, 1997

Runtime 92 Minutes

Director David Mirkin

Writers Robin Schiff

Cast

Mira Sorvino

Lisa Kudrow

Janeane Garofalo

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