Tyler James Williams and Hayden Panettiere Starring in Thriller ‘Amber Alert’

Tyler James Williams and Hayden Panettiere Starring in Thriller 'Amber Alert'

Abbott Elementary star Tyler James Williams and Scream IV’s Hayden Panettiere are top-lining Lionsgate’s new film thriller, Amber Alert. Well, that sounds like a thriller, if there ever was one. 

So Deadline scooped the exclusive and from the Hollywood media outlet, Amber Alert follows Jaq (Panettiere) on the first day of her new job and Shane (Williams), her ride-share driver for the day. The pair fall into a game of cat and mouse when an Amber Alert for an abducted child goes out, and they find themselves behind the suspected vehicle of the abduction and spring into action so as not to let the suspect escape.

Kerry Bellessa will direct Amber Alert from a script that Joshua Oram and Bellessa penned. Joseph Restaino and Tony Stopperan are producing under Hungry Bull Productions. Also producing are Summer and Kerry Bellessa with Bluefields Entertainment, as well as Leal Naim. Executive producing Amber Alert are Panettiere and Williams.

As we mentioned, Williams stars in the acclaimed comedy Abbott Elementary, which is in its third season on ABC. And get this: he scored a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor in a TV series musical/comedy or drama. That’s a big deal.

Panettiere came back to the screen after reprising her character in the fan-favorite Scream franchise in Scream IV, which was decent at the box office, earning over $90 million worldwide. Panettiere is a Golden Globe nominee for her role in the series Nashville. Congrats to both, and don’t miss those notifications for Amber Alerts, pun intended. 

The post Tyler James Williams and Hayden Panettiere Starring in Thriller ‘Amber Alert’ first appeared on The Source.

The post Tyler James Williams and Hayden Panettiere Starring in Thriller ‘Amber Alert’ appeared first on The Source.

Tyler James Williams Shuts Down Rumors About Sexuality, Decries Trying To “Out” People

It may be Pride Month, but Tyler James Williams is tired of people gossiping about his sexuality. This is not the first time that Williams has gone on social media to address some societal concerns. In 2020, he famously went up against Terry Crews amidst his claims of “black supremacy.” The two formerly starred together in Everybody Hates Chris. Williams was not in the spotlight for some time, but he was thrust back into it in the surprise hit comedy from Quinta Brunson, Abbott Elementary. In a new set of Instagram Stories, the actor has addressed rumors about his sexuality. Additionally, he has expressed concern over the culture of attempting to expose someone’s sexual orientation.

Williams appears to have come across social media posts suggesting that he displays certain behaviors associated with being gay. In his statement, the actor denied these claims. He also spoke out against anyone who tries to “catch” a gay person that isn’t out. Williams claims that this is a dangerous game and incredibly damaging to the LGBTQ community.

Williams Simultaneously Denies Being Gay And Defends The LGBTQ Community

Tyler James Williams attends the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza on February 26, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

Tyler James Williams appears to have come across social media posts about his sexuality. Apparently, these posts suggest that he displays certain behaviors associated with being gay. This is what compelled Williams to speak out. “Usually I wouldn’t address stuff like this but I feel like it as a conversation is bigger than me,” the actor said. “I’m not gay; but I think the culture of trying to ‘find’ some kind of hidden trait or behavior that a closeted person ‘let slip’ is very dangerous.” Of course, this practice is commonplace online. One needs only to look at the comments under posts by the likes of Shawn Mendes and Harry Styles to see it. Williams, however, says this behavior only contributes to a feeling of being unsafe for queer people.

“I’ve been very clear about the intentionality I try to put into using my platform to push back against those archetypes every chance that I get,” Williams continued. “Being straight doesn’t look one way. Being gay doesn’t look one way. And what may seem like harmless fun and conversation may actually be sending a dangerous message to those struggling with real issues.” The actor’s selfless statement no doubt meant quite a bit to members of the LGBTQ community. He went on to wish a happy Pride to his “queer and questioning” friends. What do you think of Williams’ statement? Be sure to sound off in the comments below!

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‘Abbott Elementary’ Fans Are Freaking Out About Its Latest Cameos, Including Vince Staples And A 76ers Legend

In just two short seasons, Abbott Elementary has become an outright sensation. The show, which is kind of like The Office or Parks And Recreation set in a Philadelphia public elementary school, has garnered rave reviews for its heart and laugh-out-loud comedic touch. However, another aspect of its popularity that can’t be overlooked is its cameos and commitment to its Philadelphia setting.

While comedian/rapper Zack Fox played an integral role in the first season, the second season has upped the ante, with a hilarious appearance from Philly Flyers mascot Gritty, and in the show’s latest episode which aired last night, Vince Staples and 76ers legend Andre Iguodala. They join a cast that is already full of delightful comedic personalities including Tyler James Williams (from Everybody Hates Chris), Janelle James, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Quinta Brunson, the show’s creator and main character, rookie educator Janine Teagues.

And since Staples is cast as a romantic rival to Williams’ Gregory for Janine’s affections, fans are rightfully freaking out, since Greg and Janine are the show’s “will they, won’t they” couple. Williams and Brunson’s smoldering chemistry doesn’t hurt either.

Iggy’s appearance is played more for straight laughs, as he appears as the boyfriend of the school’s irresponsible principal, Ava (portrayed by James). Fans were naturally excited to get yet another Philly reference on the show, which has nodded to Sixers basketball a couple of times this season, including with Janine’s Halloween costume of James Harden.

The show is going into its winter hiatus. Still, it will return in early 2023 — undoubtedly with more fun surprises and complications in the ongoing story of the interoffice romance between Janine and Greg (and hopefully, more Ava/Iggy shenanigans).