Jack Black and Kyle Gass (a.k.a. the melodious duo known as Tenacious D) dropped a cover of Britney Spears‘ debut hit “… Baby One More Time” on social media last week, which naturally, melted the faces of anyone who watched it. The cover was a match made in heaven, and Black is definitely ready to take things to the next level.
While walking the red carpet for Kung Panda 4, Black made it abundantly clear that the D is ready to collaborate with Britney at the drop of a hat. Just say the word, and they’re there.
“Britney, if you’re watching, I love you. I love the song,” Black told Entertainment Tonight. “I’m here! I’m ready when you are. I’m waiting by the phone. I got kicks! I don’t quite have Britney kicks, but you know, I got some moves.”
Black also hopes Britney saw the cover and liked what she saw.
“We’re very proud of it, [and] I hope you like it, too,” Black said.
The Tenacious D cover has already racked up over 3 million likes thanks to Black absolutely going for it. You can watch his madcap performance below complete with Gass pulling off his best dance moves in the background and the words “Baby” written across Black’s knuckle in this hilariously badass cover of a stone-cold classic:
Move over, The Last of Us fans, because the long-awaited film adaptation of the popular video game Borderlands is coming soon. Starring superstar funnyman Kevin Hart, Ariana Greenblatt, Edgar Ramirez, Cate Blanchett, and none other than Jack Black lead the way in the star-studded big-budget film coming to theaters.
Now get this: Borderlands is a title from Gearbox and 2K and has become one of the top-selling games ever. The trailer top lined by Kevin Hart, gets the ball rolling in the film adaptation. Eli Roth is directing, and he knows how to keep genre fans on the edge of their seats with plenty of action mixed with in-your-face laughs.
Here’s the official synopsis:
Two-time Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett teams up with Kevin Hart in director Eli Roth’s BORDERLANDS. Lilith (Blanchett), an infamous outlaw with a mysterious past, reluctantly returns to her home planet of Pandora to find the missing daughter of the universe’s most powerful S.O.B., Atlas (Ramirez). Lilith forms an alliance with an unexpected team – Roland (Hart), a former elite mercenary, now desperate for redemption; Tiny Tina (Greenblatt), a feral pre-teen demolitionist; Krieg, Tina’s musclebound, rhetorically challenged protector; Tannis (Curtis), the scientist with a tenuous grip on sanity; and Claptrap (Black), a persistently wiseass robot. These unlikely heroes must battle alien monsters and dangerous bandits to find and protect the missing girl, who may hold the key to unimaginable power. The fate of the universe could be in their hands – but they’ll be fighting for something more: each other.
Borderlands is hitting theaters on Aug. 9 but check out the trailer here.
Jack Black, renowned for his exuberant personality and versatile talents, has become a distinguished figure in the film and music industries. His unique blend of comedy, acting, and musical prowess has endeared him to audiences worldwide. As of 2023, Black’s successful tenure in Hollywood and his ventures with the band Tenacious D have contributed to a net worth of $55 million, according to Fresherslive, signifying his impact and popularity in entertainment and music.
Career Highlights: A Fusion Of Comedy & Music
Kyle Gass and Jack Black of Tenacious D during Sean “Diddy” Combs and Tenacious D Visit MTV’s “TRL”. September 25, 2006 at MTV Studios in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Carley Margolis/FilmMagic)
Jack Black’s journey to fame in Hollywood is marked by a series of memorable performances that showcase his comedic flair and acting abilities. Notable roles in films like School of Rock, Kung Fu Panda, and Jumanji have highlighted his talent for blending humor with heartfelt performances. Beyond acting, Black’s musical career with Tenacious D showcases his multifaceted skills as a musician and performer. This further cemented his reputation as an entertainer of diverse talents.
In addition to his film career, Black has made significant contributions to the music industry with his band Tenacious D. Their blend of comedy and rock music has garnered a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Black’s work in Tenacious D illustrates his passion for music and his ability to create a unique and entertaining musical experience.
Personal Life: Comedic Charm & Authenticity
ATLANTA, GA – MAY 06: Jack Black of Tenacious D performs during Day 3 at Shaky Knees Festival. Also at Atlanta Central Park on May 6, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Legato/Getty Images)
Jack Black’s personal life mirrors the energy and humor he brings to his professional work. Known for his down-to-earth persona and infectious enthusiasm, Black’s public appearances and social media presence have made him a beloved figure beyond his on-screen and on-stage performances. His dedication to his family and various philanthropic efforts add depth to his public image, showcasing his commitment to causes important to him.
Legacy & Influence: Jack Black’s Impact On Entertainment
NEW YORK, NY – MAY 01: Jack Black (who starred in the fiilm as “Dewey Finn”). Signs the VIP room wall backstage at the hit musical based on the film starring Jack Black “School of Rock”. On Broadway at The Winter Garden Theatre on May 1, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Glikas/Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic)
Reflecting on Jack Black’s $55 million net worth in 2023, his entertainment career is a testament to the power of combining diverse talents and a charismatic personality. His influence in film and music is marked by his ability to bring joy and laughter to audiences, as well as his skill in delivering performances that resonate on a deeper level. Overall, Black’s legacy in the entertainment industry is characterized by his unique brand of humor. Also, his musical talents and unwavering commitment to entertaining and engaging with his fans have helped his success.
Jack Black had the biggest hit of his career with “Peaches,” Bower’s yearning ballad for Princess Peach from The Super Mario Bros. Movie (coincidentally, the biggest movie of 2023). Over the weekend, at the Game Awards’ 10–Year Concert, the Tenacious D member performed the song live for the first time.
Black was accompanied by a full orchestra, but no Toad on the maracas. A real missed opportunity there. Still, you can watch it below.
Black was initially hesitant to sing in The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which is maybe the first time he’s ever be hesitant to break into a tasty jam.
“We had already had a few sessions; I think we were a year in when [directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic] first sprung it on me,” he told IGN. “They were like, ‘How would you feel about Bowser singing a song?’ And I was like, ‘Ooh, I don’t know.’ I’m very protective about my singing career with my band, Tenacious D.” But once he heard “Peaches,” Black “couldn’t deny that it was funny. I was like, I get it. I see why you want Bowser to do this, tickling the ivories and singing a love song to Peaches. It was undeniable.”
Also undeniable: “Peaches” deserving an Oscar nomination. Tenacious D was robbed once before; don’t make it twice.
Jack Black is the MVP of the highest-grossing video game movie of all-time (and the biggest movie of 2023). In the music video for “Video Games,” Tenacious D‘s first new song in five years, he and Kyle “Rage Kage” Gass pay tribute to some of the most iconic video game characters ever, including Link (it’s almost Tears of the Kingdom Day!), Kratos, and Lara Croft. Black is also transported into Mario, but not as Bowser. This time, he’s Mario. Which I guess means Chris Pratt is now… Lakitu? That works.
In a statement, the D wrote, “It’s about growing up and leaving childish things behing… But then realizing that video games are more than just mindless toys… in fact they can be a true expression of huge ideas that belong in the pantheon of great works of art! It’s about time someone defended the honor and integrity of this bold new horizon. Leave it to the greatest band in the world… Tenacious D!!!” They’ll lead (and play video games) as two kings.
Tenacious D are on tour. Here’s where you can see them:
5/11/23 New Orleans, LA @ The Fillmore
5/13/23 St. Augustine, FL @ The St. Augustine Amphitheatre
6/2/23 Nuremberg, Germany @ Rock im Park
6/3/23 Nurburg, Germany @ Rock Am Ring
6/4/23 Prague, Czech Republic @ Forum Karlin
6/6/23 Hamburg, Germany @ Sporthalle
6/7/23 Berlin, Germany @ Zitadelle
6/8/23 Nickelsdorf, Austria @ Nova Rock Festival
6/10/23 Milan, Italy @ Carroponte
6/12/23 Zurich, Switzerland @ The Hall
6/13/23 Brussels, Belgium @ Forest National
6/14/23 Rotterdam, Netherlands @ Ahoy
6/16/23 London, England @ O2 Arena
6/18/23 Clisson, France @ Hellfest Open Air Festival
Harry Styles, Jennifer Lopez, Eminem, Prince, and Beyoncé are the only artists who had the number one movie and song in the country in the same week. Jack Black won’t quite get there, but he’ll come closer than anyone expected. Even though we probably should have, because there’s nothing the Tenacious D singer can’t do (including playing Batman, hopefully).
The Super Mario Bros. Movie is expected to finish #1 at the box office for a second straight weekend, while “Peaches,” the Oscar-eligible ballad sung by Bowser (voiced by Black), is climbing up the charts. “The song got off to a strong start in streaming and sales, and has only grown in the days since, as the movie has conquered theaters nationwide,” according to Billboard. “It’s risen from 218,000 daily official on-demand U.S. streams and about 500 digital song sales on April 7 in its first full day of release to 961,000 and 1,000 in streams and sales on April 10 – gains of 342 percent and 104 percent.”
“Peaches” could appear on the Billboard Hot 100 “within the next week or two” (it’s rapidly rising on the global Spotify chart), which would be a first for Black as a solo artist. With Tenacious D, he and Kyle Gass reached #78 with “POD” from The Pick of Destiny. (“Tribute,” the second single from the D’s first album, peaked at #4 in Australia, but failed to chart in the United States.)
Come on, TikTok, do your thing, and get “Peaches” on the Hot 100. And while you’re at it, make “Kyle Quit the Band” go viral, too.
Jack Black, born Thomas Jacob Black, is a California actor, musician, and comedian. Black has had an extensive career in music, television, and film. He’s a celebrated creative in Hollywood, and his comedic takes have made for classic cult lines that fans still say today. He’s also worked with his band Tenacious D, and on the silver screen, Black has been featured in the Jumanji franchise, Kung Fu Panda blockbusters, and dozens of other hit features.
With a decades-long career under his belt, Jack Black has more than enough fan favorites. While our list isn’t necessarily exhaustive, we’re diving into a few noteworthy Jack Black movies that can’t be ignored. From his recent appearance in The Super Mario Bros. Movie to jammin’ in School of Rock, here are my favorite Jack Black films.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)
Black lent his voice to the new Super Mario Bros. film alongside Chris Pratt, Charlie Day, and Seth Rogan. Jack voices Bowser in the film. He is also the main antagonist. The film also features the origin story of brothers Mario and Luigi. These two characters are quite popular in video gaming, with several best-selling games. The film’s plot follows the two as they are transported to an alternate universe and become entangled between two kingdoms. One of the kingdoms is Bowser’s. The Super Mario Bros. Movie generally received positive reviews upon its release. It has so far grossed over $377 million in worldwide ticket sales. Additionally, the movie is currently on its theatrical run.
The House With W Clock In Its Walls (2018)
Jack Black plays the warlock Jonathan Barnavelt in this fantasy comedy based on the 1973 novel of the same name. John Bellairs wrote the original novel. The plot follows the adventures of Lewis Barnavelt, an orphan who moves in with his uncle Jonathan. The movie further explores the relationship between Lewis and his uncle as the 10-year-old learns magic. He would eventually help Jonathan uncover the mystery of a magic clock. From a $42 million production budget, the film grossed over $130 million at the global box office.
Jumanji Film Series (2017 – )
The Jumanji series is a movie franchise based on the children’s books Jumanji (1981) and its sequel Zathura (2002). The movie revolves around people being mysteriously sucked into an enchanted video game. Finishing all the game levels is the only way to get out of the game. Jack Black stars alongside comedian Kevin Hart and franchise magnet Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. The actors have also starred in two out of the four live-action Jumanji films. Jack plays Professor Sheldon ‘Shelly’ Oberon, an expert scientist, and is the avatar of Bethany (played by Madison Iseman).
Gulliver’s Travels (2010)
Gulliver’s Travels is a fantasy adventure comedy film where Jack Black plays the role of Lemuel Gulliver. Lemuel is a struggling news reporter sent on a mission to uncover the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle. After arriving in the triangle, he is mysteriously sucked in by a water spout and magically transported to an island of tiny people. The themes lightheartedly revolve around love, envy, and acceptance. Emily Blunt, T.J. Miller, and Amanda Pete also star in the film.
Kung Fu Panda Film Franchise (2007 – )
Jack has consistently reprised his role as the voice of Po in the DreamWorks animated franchise Kung Fu Panda. The franchise includes films and television spin-off shows. Generally, the plot follows the adventures of Po, the Kung Fu panda, with his friends and fellow warriors in different quests. DreamWorks has officially announced Kung Fu Panda 4, slated for 2024. Jack Black is expected to continue voicing Po in the new sequel. The Kung Fu Panda movies have, over the years, seen massive box office success. The franchise is estimated to have grossed over $1.8 billion across the three released films. Jack Black has also been consistently lauded for his incredible voice acting in the franchise.
King Kong (2005)
King Kong is an epic adventure monster film and is also the eighth sequel in the King Kong movie franchise. King Kong follows the unsanctioned adventures of film director Carl Denham (Jack Black). He lies to his crew and actress Ann Darrow (Naomi Watts) about shooting a film in the SS Venture ship. However, Carl intends to film the mythical Skull Island.
SS Venture coincidentally shipwrecks on Skull Island, and the crew encounters savage natives of the Island. King Kong, a 25-foot-tall ape, also lives on the island. The natives periodically offer human sacrifices to the ape. The film then dives into the relationship between King Kong and actress Ann Darrow. The relationship is juxtaposed with the efforts of Jack and company to free her from the monster. Kong is eventually killed in a confrontation with the Navy as the movie concludes. The film succeeded at the global box office, raising over $560 million in its theater run.
School Of Rock (2003)
School of Rock is a 2003 comedy film featuring Jack Black alongside Mike White and Sarah Silverman. The movie grossed $131 million at the global box office from a $35 million budget. Black stars as a music teacher who is set to turn a young group os students into a full-fledged rock band. The film largely received positive reviews, with critics praising Black’s performance. It is one of the highest-grossing music-themed comedy films of all time, sitting behind 2015’s Pitch Perfect.
One of the surprise delights that awaited viewers of The Super Mario Bros. Movie was another classic Jack Black musical moment — one that has the internet’s attention in a chokehold. “Peaches,” a power ballad sung by Black as the film’s villain Bowser, who secretly pines for the Princess of the Mushroom Kingdom, has quickly become a fan favorite on social media.
Well, here’s some good news for those fans: According to Variety, “Peaches” will be eligible to win a Best Original Song Oscar at next year’s Academy Awards. Which, if you ask the legions of newly converted Bowswer fans, is an award it already has in the bag.
Universal appears to know this as well; in addition to highlighting the song on social media, the studio even commissioned a music video featuring Jack Black directed by hip-hop’s go-to director Cole Bennett, who applies his signature colorful aesthetic to the video.
The music in The Super Mario Bros. Movie has turned out to be an unexpected star with both classic pop needle drops and not one, but two notoriously bad Ninento-related raps of the ’90s returning to introduce heroes the Super Mario Bros. and Donkey Kong. The cast even made an appearance on late-night TV to perform an acapella version of the game’s iconic theme song.
Check out Bowser’s “Peaches” video above and try not to get it stuck in your head for the rest of the day.
The crossover we never knew we needed: Jack Black shared a photo with the one and only Lizzo on Instagram. The pair are working together in the Disney+ series The Mandalorian, and in the picture it looks like they’re both having a great time on set.
“So fun working with @lizzobeeating on @themandalorian as the king and queen of Plazir-15!!!” Black wrote in the caption.
The “About Damn Time” singer was only making a cameo. This happens during episode 6 of season 3, playing the role of the Dutchess Of Plazir-15, who is Black’s wife. Fans loved this unexpected coupling.
Meanwhile, Lizzo’s deal with Amazon Studios was recently extended since her Watch Out For The Big Grrrls show won an Emmy. “I’m thrilled to continue this partnership with the Amazon team after an incredible experience on season one of Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” she shared about the exciting news in a statement. “I’ve witnessed lives change through this show, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue making space for even more Big Grrrls around the world to shine and break down barriers across this industry.”
Lizzo is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
