After landing a recurring role in Abbott Elementary, Vince Staples kept his acting momentum going with Netflix’s The Vince Staples Show. The series was well-received, with a response that has now prompted Netflix to give the program a second season, it was officially confirmed yesterday (May 30).
Staples said in a statement (as Variety reports), “The ‘Vince Staples Show’ is back! The people have spoken and the most riveting, captivating, and polarizing show on Netflix is returning for season 2. Get ready for hijinks that only a mother can love. Thank you, Netflix!”
Netflix and Staples also teased/confirmed the news on social media with straightforward posts.
It would appear that Staples calling his fans to action has worked: In February, in response to a fan asking for more episodes, Staples tweeted, “Netflix didn’t buy anymore episodes so make sure you hit that double thumbs up. Peer pressure works and I’m tryna re up.”
In an Uproxx interview from that month, Staples said, “Hopefully, it performs well and we are able to keep it going. That’s kind of how we got situated over here with Netflix, and I think it came out good. I feel like no matter how it ends up, we gave a round story and gave it some closure, some context. So I think we’ll be good either way.”
In the age of streaming platforms vying for content, Netflix has emerged triumphant in securing a highly anticipated docuseries delving into the tumultuous allegations surrounding rap mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. Months of speculation and social media buzz have finally resulted in the revelation that Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson’s production company, G-Unit Film & Television, will spearhead this riveting exposé, set to unravel the intricate web of accusations against Combs. The genesis of this project traces back to December when Jackson first hinted at the possibility of shedding light on the dark shadows clouding Combs’ legacy.
Fueling the anticipation, faux posters teasing a documentary began circulating on social media, igniting fervent discussions among netizens. Amidst the buzz, Jackson confirmed in a tweet that Netflix had emerged victorious in the heated “bidding war,” securing the rights to the series. However, with a poignant caveat, Jackson acknowledged that should more victims come forward, the narrative might necessitate additional episodes—a testament to the gravity of the allegations at hand. Central to the documentary’s focus are the distressing accounts of sexual abuse, rape, and sex trafficking leveled against Combs by multiple women over the past six months.
Combs, vehemently denying these claims, finds himself ensnared in a storm of accusations, with the latest lawsuit surfacing on the very day of Netflix’s announcement. The documentary promises an unflinching examination of these allegations, juxtaposed against Combs’ staunch denials. Testimonies of individuals once entrenched within Combs’ inner circle, including former rapper Mark Curry, who divulged unsettling anecdotes from their time under Combs’ tutelage. Notably, lyrics from a Rick Ross song, eerily echoing themes of drugging and sexual assault, underscore the chilling allegations permeating the documentary’s discourse.
A pivotal moment occurred with the release of surveillance footage depicting Combs’ altercation with his former girlfriend, R&B singer Casandra Ventura—a visual testament to the dynamics overshadowing their relationship. Combs’ subsequent apology video signifies a recognition of past transgressions, yet leaves lingering questions regarding accountability. Netflix’s decision to greenlight this docuseries reflects a commitment to amplifying voices long silenced by power dynamics within the industry.
For months, 50 Cent has been needling his beleaguered rival mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, who has come under both public and federal scrutiny after several lawsuits were filed against him alleging sexual misconduct. Today, 50 reported another win in his one-sided battle with Diddy, as the documentary he has been touting since the beginning of the drama has reportedly been bought by Netflix after a bidding war among streamers for its broadcast rights.
According to TMZ, 50 produced the doc through his G-Unit Film and Television Studios, and is expected to begin streaming “sooner rather than later.”
Meanwhile, Combs, still reeling from the leak of a hotel security video that captured an assault on his ex Cassie Ventura, was hit with a sixth lawsuit today. Filed by former model Crystal McKinney, the latest suit alleges that Diddy forced McKinney to give him oral sex after drugging her at a New York Fashion Week party when she was 22.
The latest suit came after federal authorities raided several of Diddy’s properties while investigating claims of sex trafficking leveled against the Bad Boy founder in one of the lawsuits against him. However, Diddy can’t be charged for the 2016 hotel assault on Cassie, due to an expired statute of limitations.
50 Cent had a busy May 21. The rapper has had a field day with the downfall of his fellow NY mogul, Diddy. He not only made fun of Diddy on social media, but he secured distribution for his anticipated documentary series on the mogul’s various crimes. The docuseries, tentatively titled Diddy Do It, was bought by Netflix after a lengthy bidding war. A bidding war that 50 celebrated by poking fun at TMZ.
TMZ broke the news of the Netflix acquisition. They claimed that multiple networks and virtually all the streaming platforms were trying to purchase the docuseries, given how much attention the Diddy saga had gotten in the last few months. “[The] new Diddy docuseries will hit the streamer sooner than later,” the outlet added. 50 Cent’s decision to go with Netflix makes perfect sense, given the success that the platform has had with other true crime shows.
The rapper did not appreciate TMZ’s coverage of the story, however. He reposted a screenshot of the article on his Instagram and noted that the outlet used a photo of him when he was noticeably heavier. His theory? TMZ is salty because they recently put a Diddy documentary of their own: The Downfall of Diddy. “TMZ use this fat boy picture of me because their doc went to Tubi LOL,” he wrote on IG. “It’s ok guys we’re all making good television mines just happens to be the best.”
50 Cent went on note that he may have to produce more episodes of his docuseries if more harrowing Diddy allegations surface. “Netflix wins the bidding war but if more victims keep coming out I’m gonna need more episodes,” he added. This Instagram post comes only a few hours after the rapper reacted to the latest assault claims leveled at Diddy. A former model named Crystal McKinney filed a lawsuit against Diddy for an alleged 2003 incident, and 50 once again blasted the Bad Boy founder. “This my last puffy post I think he might kill himself,” he wrote. “I don’t want no parts of that.” The rapper later deleted the post.
Ted Sarandos is the co-CEO and Chief Content Officer of Netflix. He has amassed a net worth of $200 million as of 2024, according to CelebrityNetWorth. His rise from humble beginnings to the top of the entertainment industry has been marked by his innovative approach to content development and distribution, propelling Netflix into the global streaming giant it is today. Sarandos’s strategic acumen and willingness to challenge industry norms have solidified his reputation as a visionary leader.
Ted Sarandos’s career in entertainment began in video rental stores. He developed a keen understanding of consumer tastes and preferences. This experience also proved invaluable when he joined Netflix in 2000, a time when the company was primarily a DVD rental service. Recognizing the potential of digital distribution, Sarandos pushed for Netflix to expand its streaming services. His early foresight helped position the company as a pioneer in the shift from physical media to digital content.
Transformation & Leadership At Netflix
NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 01: Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos attends the North. American Premiere Of “Lilyhammer”, a Netflix Original Series at Crosby Street Hotel on February 1, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ID-PR)
As Netflix’s Chief Content Officer, Sarandos played a key role in transitioning the company from a DVD rental business to a streaming powerhouse. He oversaw Netflix’s original content strategy, leading to hit shows like House of Cards, Stranger Things, and The Crown. By investing heavily in original programming, Sarandos ensured Netflix could compete with traditional networks and movie studios, setting the standard for streaming services.
In 2020, Sarandos was appointed Co-CEO, sharing the helm with Reed Hastings. He continued to drive Netflix’s global expansion, acquiring rights to local productions in different countries and producing content tailored to diverse markets. This approach broadened Netflix’s appeal and helped it become one of the world’s largest entertainment platforms.
Impact On The Industry & Influence
CAP D’ANTIBES, FRANCE – MAY 20: (L-R) Ted Sarandos, Adam Sandler, Ben Stiller, and Clint Eastwood attend the Vanity. Fair and HBO Dinner celebrating the Cannes Film Festival at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc on May 20, 2017, also in Cap d’Antibes, France. (Photo by David M Benett/Dave Benett / Getty Images for Vanity Fair)
Ted Sarandos’s impact on the entertainment industry is profound. He has reshaped how audiences consume media and pushed traditional studios to embrace streaming models. His focus on data-driven content creation and strategic partnerships has enabled Netflix to grow its subscriber base and become a hub for high-quality entertainment. Ted Sarandos’s net worth reflects his success in revolutionizing the media landscape. His ability to anticipate trends and lead Netflix’s growth ensures that he remains a significant figure in the world of entertainment, guiding the company’s innovative content strategies.
Everyone is talking about the biggest story in rap this year. Drake and Kendrick Lamar have been going back and forth for weeks now and it resulted in one song after another packed full of disses from the most comical to the most scathing. Everyone in the rap world has shared their takes on who is winning the beef, with some commenting on the very idea of rap beef itself. But that’s also extended beyond the rap world where millions more are paying attention to the pair, including comedian Seth Rogen. Earlier this week the comic took the stage as a part of Netflix’s Netflix Is A Joke comedy and music festival. During his set he talked about the beef that’s captured the hearts and minds of many rap fans out there.
“If you’re not a rap fan, allow me to explain. There are two very famous rappers in Drake and Kendrick Lamar, and they’re in a fight right now. They are in a big fight with each other, and the way rappers fight with each other is they write mean rhymes about each other, which is an objectively funny way to fight with another person,” Rogen begins. He discusses how the beef began and how it escalated to some pretty serious allegations that ended up with Drake playing defense. “You don’t hear rap that’s like, ‘I am a good father … I should not be a registered sex offender.’ I would say as soon as you’re asserting in a rap song that you should not be a registered sex offender, you’ve lost the rap battle,” he concludes. Check out the full clip of his explanation below.
The diss tracks finally seem to have slowed down after an extremely busy week for rap fans. The final release came from Drake, who dropped “The Heart Part 6” on Sunday. Many of the songs are off to incredibly strong starts commercially and will likely litter the top half of the Hot 100 for the next few weeks.
What do you think of Seth Rogen’s hilarious take on the Drake and Kendrick Lamar beef? Do you think he does a good job of explaining how all of the events have unfolded so far? Let us know in the comment section below.
The Greatest Roast of All Time: Tom Brady was an epic three-hour spectacle, broadcast live on Netflix. The roast surpassed all expectations, pushing boundaries with an unapologetic barrage of comedic jabs. The star-studded lineup featured the likes of Bill Belichick, Kevin Hart, Peyton Manning, Ben Affleck, and also Kim Kardashian. Altogether, these stars gathered to pay homage to the iconic quarterback. As is expected of a roast, no topic was too sacred or off-limits during Tom Brady’s episode. Every facet of his life was hilariously dissected, from Brady’s personal life, including his divorce from supermodel Gisele Bündchen, to his notorious vanity, and questionable business decisions. Moreover, the roast explored the dynamics of his relationship with Bill Belichick, revealing the lighter side of their professional relationship. Here are some of the best jokes of the night.
At Tom Brady’s roast, Nikki Glaser evidently did not come to play. Once she took the stage, she delivered a standout performance of the night. Her set was strong and filled with witty bits targeting Gisele, and Julian Edelman’s apparent admiration for Brady. Glaser’s delivery was impeccable, maintaining a high level of comedic energy without dull moments. Speaking about Brady’s ex-wife, she joked: “Tom Brady. Five-time Super Bowl MVP, most career wins, most career touchdowns. You have seven rings– well, eight, now that Gisele gave hers back. The only thing dumber than saying yes to this roast was when you said, ‘Hey babe, you should try jiu-jitsu.’”
Bill Belichick’s Walk Of Shame
TOM BRADY FAVORITE RING WAS THE RING CAMERA ONE WHICH CAUGHT Bill Belichick LEAVING THAT POOR GIRLS HOUSE AT 6 IN THE MORNING
Tom Brady truly shone at his roast, displaying impeccable comedic timing. His performance was outstanding, earning him one of the top spots of the night. This was also especially impressive as he is not known to be a comedian. One memorable moment included a witty jab at Belichick, who was famously caught on video leaving a woman’s house the morning after. “Everybody asks me which ring is my favorite,” Brady began. “I used to say, ‘The next one.’ But now that I’m retired, my favorite ring is the camera that caught Coach Belichick slinking out of that poor girl’s house at 6 a.m. a few months ago.”
Nikki Glaser really came out with her guns blazing for everyone in sight. Despite going after the man of the show Tom Brady, Glaser turned her eyes on Kevin Hart and unleashed an unforgettable roast his way as well. Targeting his stature, she joked: “You really gotta hand it to Kevin Hart ‘cause he can’t reach. No one works harder than this man. Do you know that every morning Kevin wakes up at 4:00 am to make a shitty movie? I love your movies or as I like to call them, short films.”
Bill Belichick Takes The Stage
Belichick not holding back
“It was hard to butt heads with Tom because he was so far up Alex Guerrero’s ass” pic.twitter.com/kzPLeCjCf9
Belichick also got his lick in at Tom Brady’s roast, showcasing his own comedic prowess. While Brady slightly outscored Belichick in the joke department, Belichick certainly left a lasting impression with some of the most memorable lines of the night. “People said that Tom and I butted heads a lot,” Belichick started. “In a way that was true, but not really. It was hard to butt heads with Tom because his was so far up Alex Guerrero’s ass.”
“You left Bill Belichick with Mac Jones. You fucked him Tom! You did! You fucked him!” ~ Kevin Hart roasting the sh*t out of Tom Brady pic.twitter.com/uiAJk6l6nC
Kevin Hart served as the host of the event and kicked off the evening with an energetic and entertaining set. As Tom Brady’s reactions unfolded in real-time, it became evident that jokes about his divorce from Gisele were going to be a recurring roast of the night. In his opening set, Hart went straight for the throat and opened the floor up for future hits about Gisele. “You left Bill Belichick with Mac Jones, god damn! Oh, you f*cked him. You fucked him good. You did Tom, you fucked your coach,” he said. “But let me tell you something, people. That’s what you gotta do to maintain your happiness, you understand? You sometimes gotta f*ck your coach. You know who else f*cked their coach? Gisele. She f*cked that karate man.”
Belichick did not restrain himself to only shooting shots at Tom Brady. During his set, he made a playful jab at Gronkowski’s performance. He joked, “A lot of people connect me to the saying, ‘Do your job,’ and telling people to do their job. Gronk, I’ve been watching you on FOX NFL Sunday, and I’m begging you: Stop doing your job. Do another job. Do somebody else’s job!”
Rob Gronkowski’s Infamous Teammate
TOM BRADY SAYS THE BAR FOR GRONK TO BE A GOOD #PATRIOTS TIGHT END WAS LOW…
Embodying the spirit of the evening, the GOAT fearlessly targeted everyone present, refusing to miss out on the fun. Brady also went for his former Patriots teammate, Gronkowski. In a light roast, Brady stated: “Despite everything we’ve seen here tonight, Gronk was actually useful on the field. Although the bar for Patriots tight ends was pretty low back then: block, catch, don’t murder.” While this was a jab at Gronkowski, it highlighted the infamous case of Aaron Hernandez, his former teammate and convicted murderer. However, not everyone was amused, including Hernandez’s fiancee Shayanna Jenkins, who condemned the jokes.
Nicole Byer is renowned for her vibrant personality and sharp comedic flair. She has achieved a net worth of $4 million as of 2024, according to CAknowledge. Byer is best known for her role as the host of the Netflix baking show Nailed It!. She has become a standout figure in comedy, using her platform to explore and push boundaries within the genre. Her approach combines humor with insightful commentary, making her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Byer’s journey in comedy began in the improv theaters of New York, where she honed her craft with the Upright Citizens Brigade. Her early years in stand-up comedy and sketch shows laid the foundation for her unique style, which skillfully blends candid, observational humor with a charismatic delivery. Her breakout role on Nailed It! has brought her mainstream success and showcased her ability to engage audiences with her infectious enthusiasm and wit.
Breakout Role & Mainstream Success
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 18: (L-R) John Cena, Wipeout on TBS and Peacemaker on HBO Max and Nicole Byer, Wipeout on TBS attends the Warner Bros. Discovery Upfront 2022 show at The Theater at Madison Square Garden on May 18, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Warner Bros. Discovery)
Nailed It! has been a significant turning point in Byer’s career. The show’s format, which features amateur bakers attempting to recreate complex cakes, is the perfect platform for Byer’s comedic talents. A mix of encouragement and playful teasing marks her hosting style. It has earned the show multiple Emmy nominations, highlighting her skill as a comedian and host.
Beyond Nailed It!, Byer has expanded her presence in television with roles in series such as The Good Place and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Her versatility as an actress is evident as she seamlessly transitions between comedy and acting, bringing her distinctive energy to every performance.
Podcasts & Other Ventures
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 19: Nicole Byer attends the 73rd Primetime Emmy. Awards at L.A. LIVE on September 19, 2021, also in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Rich Fury/Getty Images)
In addition to her television career, Nicole Byer is prolific in the podcasting space. Her podcast, Why Won’t You Date Me?, is highly popular and offers an unfiltered look into her life and dating experiences, conveyed with her trademark humor. This platform has allowed her to connect with fans more personally and discuss important social issues. She particularly focuses on race and body positivity. Moreover, her involvement in various other podcasts, including guest appearances and collaborations, showcases her reach and influence in the podcasting community. This extension of her brand into digital media illustrates her adaptability and understanding of contemporary entertainment platforms.
Impact & Influence
PARK CITY, UTAH – JANUARY 22: (L-R) Nicole Byer, Candice Wilson Cherry, Logan Browning, Mayanna Berrin, Danielle Solomon, Tika Sumpter, Kiana Butler Jabangwe and Thai Randolph of Women Write Now pose for a portrait at Getty Images Portrait Studio at Stacy’s Roots to Rise Market on January 22, 2023 in Park City, Utah. (Photo by Emily Assiran/Getty Images for Stacy’s Pita Chips)
Nicole Byer’s impact extends beyond her roles and into her active engagement with social issues. She uses her platform to advocate for greater representation and inclusivity in the entertainment industry, particularly for women of color. Her outspoken nature and advocacy efforts are integral to her public persona, enhancing her influence and endearing her further to her audience. Her comedy transcends traditional boundaries, significantly contributing to the evolving landscape of stand-up and comedic entertainment. Byer continues exploring new opportunities in film and television, promising further growth and success in her career.
As Nicole Byer’s career advances, her influence within the comedy and entertainment sectors will likely expand, ensuring that her vibrant personality and sharp wit continue to win hearts and provoke thought across diverse audiences.
Netflix’s latest miniseries, Baby Reindeer, has captured the attention of binge-watchers since its release on April 11th. Its gripping narrative and the stellar performances from the cast have undoubtedly helped shape its online hype and the discourse that celebrities like Cardi B have contributed to. However, the show’s wild premise raises a critical question: Is Baby Reindeer based on a true story? Below, we dive into the true story behind Baby Reindeer and the cast who brought the show to life.
Baby Reindeer initially debuted as a one-man show at the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland. Written and performed by Scottish comedian Richard Gadd, the production delves into Gadd’s harrowing experience with a relentless stalker during his twenties. The character of Donny Dunn, portrayed by Gadd himself in the series, serves as a fictionalized representation of the comedian who finds himself navigating through fame and fear while dealing with harassment.
The Television Show
Netflix kept the original essence of Baby Reindeer in their television adaptation. However, the show’s translation from the stage to the screen allows an expanded narrative, keeping viewers at the edge of their seats. Jessica Gunning’s impeccable performance as Martha, the enigmatic stalker who is obsessed with Donny, undoubtedly left fans feeling unease. Her portrayal of Martha blurs the line between victim and perpetrator, even through the psychological fear of stalking.
Depiction Of Real Events
The most shocking aspect of Baby Reindeer is that it is actually based on a true story of the real-life stalking and harassment that Gadd endured. Over the course of four and a half years, Gadd found himself inundated with thousands of emails, voicemails, and messages from a middle-aged woman known in the series as Martha. Unfortunately, this level of harassment impacted well beyond Gadd himself, with his loved ones also being affected. In a scary situation, Gadd overcame the harassment and developed one of the most compelling original series that Netflix has seen in a while.
The cast of Baby Reindeer delivers powerhouse performances that breathe life into the characters and their complex dynamics. Alongside Richard Gadd’s compelling portrayal of Donny Dunn, Jessica Gunning captivates as the troubled Martha, blurring the lines between sympathy and fear with her nuanced performance. Nava Mau brings depth to the role of Teri, while Tom Goodman-Hill adds intrigue as Darrien, a figure from Donny’s past whose presence looms large throughout the series.
Conclusion
Baby Reindeer offers a nuanced exploration of trauma, obsession, and resilience, grounded in the stark reality of Richard Gadd’s own experiences. As viewers immerse themselves in this captivating series, they are reminded that truth can be stranger—and more compelling—than fiction.
With its gripping storyline and standout performances, Baby Reindeer invites audiences to bear witness to the tumultuous journey of one man’s struggle against an insidious force. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or drawn to stories based on real-life events, Baby Reindeer promises to deliver an unforgettable viewing experience. So, grab your popcorn and settle in—because Baby Reindeer is now streaming on Netflix, ready to take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotion and suspense.
Netflix’s hit sitcom The Upshaws just dropped the new trailer for Part 5, which is due to hit the streamer this month. The family is putting in the work every day to achieve their dreams, not without a share of laughs along the way.
The returning series stars Mike Epps, Kim Fields, Gabrielle Dennis, and Wanda Sykes and follows a working-class Black family that has dealt with a real issue—infidelity—but is working through it all to solidify their family.
According to the synopsis:
Bennie Upshaw (Mike Epps), the head of a Black working class family in Indianapolis, is a charming, well-intentioned mechanic and lifelong mess just trying his best to step up and care for his family — wife Regina (Kim Fields), their two young daughters (Khali Spraggins, Journey Christine) and firstborn son (Jermelle Simon), the teenage son (Diamond Lyons) he fathered with another woman (Gabrielle Dennis) — and tolerate his sardonic sister-in-law (Wanda Sykes), all without a blueprint for success. But the Upshaws are determined to make it work, and make it to the next level, together. In this upcoming part, the Upshaws continue to ride life’s ups and downs, including new jobs, bigger dreams, health struggles and some major life surprises but still hanging on with the love that comes with family.
Epps and Sykes are executive producing with Regina Hicks along with Page Hurwitz, Niles Kirchner, Annie Levine, Jon Emerson, and Mark Alton Brown. Hicks and Sykes are showrunners and series creators.
Part 5 comes to Netflix on April 18, but the series was already renewed for the sixth part, hitting the streamer later this year.
