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Scary Movie Roars Back at the Box Office With Strong Preview Numbers

The Scary Movie franchise is proving that audiences still have an appetite for outrageous parody comedy. The rebooted installment opened with an estimated $7.7 million in preview screenings, putting it in the same conversation as some of the biggest recent horror-comedy openings. The impressive figure has surprised many industry observers, especially considering the franchise has been absent from theaters for more than a decade. According to early box office reports, the film’s preview earnings are nearing the levels achieved by Scream 7 and are outperforming several recent R-rated comedy releases. 

The strong start suggests that nostalgia, combined with the return of key franchise faces, is drawing audiences back to theaters. The new film reunites core franchise stars Anna Faris, Regina Hall, Marlon Wayans and Shawn Wayans, bringing back the comedic chemistry that helped turn the original movies into pop culture staples.

While critics haven’t been particularly enthusiastic about the reboot, audiences appear to be having a much better time. Early audience scores have significantly outpaced critic ratings, highlighting a familiar trend for broad comedies that often connect more strongly with moviegoers than reviewers.

The film’s success is especially notable in a crowded marketplace. Scary Movie is currently competing against several high-profile releases, including Masters of the Universe and The Amazing Digital Circus, yet it has still managed to generate considerable opening-day momentum.

Industry analysts had initially projected the movie to open in the $40 million to $45 million range domestically. However, after the strong preview performance, expectations are beginning to rise as the weekend unfolds. The franchise first launched in 2000 and quickly became one of Hollywood’s most successful parody series, earning hundreds of millions worldwide while spoofing everything from Scream and The Sixth Sense to The Ring and Saw.

Now, years after its last theatrical outing, Scary Movie appears to have found its audience once again. Whether the reboot can maintain its momentum throughout the weekend remains to be seen, but one thing is already clear: the franchise’s return is no joke at the box office.

Taylor Swift Gives Jessie Her Flowers With Heartfelt Tribute on New Toy Story 5 Track

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Taylor Swift is making sure one of Pixar’s most beloved characters finally gets her moment in the spotlight. While fans have been buzzing about Swift’s new Toy Story 5 song, “I Knew It, I Knew You,” the singer says the track is ultimately a tribute to Jessie, the fearless cowgirl who has been a fan favorite since Toy Story 2. The song’s artwork prominently features Jessie, and Swift has made it clear that the character served as the emotional inspiration behind the project.

“Creating something for Jessie was a new challenge and also felt like second nature all at once,” Swift shared while announcing the track.

For many fans, Jessie has long been one of the franchise’s most emotional and relatable characters. Introduced in 1999’s Toy Story 2, the energetic cowgirl quickly became a standout thanks to her heartbreaking backstory and unwavering loyalty to her friends.

Now, more than two decades later, Swift is helping bring that character back into the spotlight.

The Grammy winner described working on the song as both a creative departure and a return home, with the track embracing the country influences that first launched her career. Given Jessie’s cowgirl roots, fans have noted that the musical style feels like a fitting tribute.

Swift also reflected on her own lifelong connection to the Toy Story universe, revealing that she has been a fan since childhood.

The singer reunited with longtime collaborator Jack Antonoff to co-write and produce the song, which celebrates themes of friendship, loyalty and reconnecting with people who leave a lasting impact on your life.

In a heartfelt message to fans, Swift explained that she and Antonoff approached the project with deep affection for the characters who shaped so many childhood memories.

“We wrote this with so much adoration for these characters that made us laugh and helped us learn lessons throughout our childhoods,” she said.

The release comes as anticipation continues to build for Toy Story 5, which arrives in theaters on June 19.

While the film will once again reunite audiences with Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the rest of the gang, Swift’s contribution has sparked excitement among Jessie fans who feel the character has often been overlooked despite her importance to the franchise.

With “I Knew It, I Knew You,” Swift isn’t just adding another soundtrack credit to her résumé. She’s giving Jessie the recognition and appreciation many fans believe she has deserved for years.

And judging by the response online, audiences are more than ready to celebrate the iconic cowgirl alongside her.

Paul Rudd Recalls Hilarious Encounter With Neil Diamond That Ended With a Perfect One-Liner

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Paul Rudd is looking back on an unforgettable celebrity encounter from long before he became one of Hollywood’s most recognizable stars. During a recent appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, the actor shared a hilarious story about meeting legendary singer Neil Diamond while working as a DJ in Los Angeles in his early twenties.nBefore becoming known for films like Clueless, Ant-Man and Avengers: Endgame, Rudd spent weekends DJing weddings, birthdays, bar mitzvahs and other events to earn extra money while he was still in school.

One particular party, however, stands out above all the others.

Rudd recalled working at a birthday celebration where Diamond happened to be among the guests. While excited to see the music icon in attendance, the actor admitted he spent most of the evening feeling nervous.

“I was very aware that Neil Diamond was there,” Rudd said, explaining that he finally worked up the courage to introduce himself.

According to the actor, Diamond was sitting alone at a table when he approached and politely asked whether he was enjoying the party.

The singer reportedly responded with a serious but friendly, “Yes, yes I am.”

That exchange inspired Rudd to make a joke that would lead to an even better response.

Referencing Wang Chung’s hit song Everybody Have Fun Tonight, which he believes was playing at the event, Rudd asked, “Well, more importantly, are you Wanging Chung tonight?”

Without missing a beat, Diamond allegedly looked at him and replied, “Well, I try and Wang Chung every night.”

The response left a lasting impression on Rudd, who described the interaction as a flawless celebrity encounter.

“It was a perfect run-in. It was great,” he said.

Host Seth Meyers agreed, joking that it would be difficult for a conversation with Neil Diamond to go any better than that.

The lighthearted story quickly became one of the highlights of the interview, offering fans a glimpse into Rudd’s life before fame and proving that even Hollywood stars can still get starstruck.

While Rudd may not consider himself a great DJ, he joked that it was the perfect side job during his younger years because it allowed him to work weekends while pursuing acting.

And thanks to one quick joke and an even quicker comeback from Neil Diamond, it also gave him one of the best celebrity stories of his career.

Carrie-Anne Moss Shares Unexpected Praise for Rising Star Hudson Williams While Teasing New Series

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Carrie-Anne Moss is giving one of television’s fastest-rising stars a glowing endorsement. The Matrix actress recently appeared at Bell Media’s upfront presentation in Toronto to promote her upcoming supernatural drama Yaga, where she opened up about working alongside Heated Rivalry breakout star Hudson Williams. While discussing the new series, Moss revealed that one of the most memorable parts of filming involved sharing romantic scenes with the 25-year-old actor.

“I got to make out with him, so that’s lovely,” Moss joked while gesturing toward Williams during the event.

However, it was her praise for his professionalism that quickly caught attention.

“He was super respectful. He was so respectful to my personal space,” Moss said. “This guy is, like, a serious gentleman.”

The upcoming drama is based on playwright Kat Sandler’s 2019 stage production and offers a modern twist on the legendary Baba Yaga folklore. Moss stars as Katherine, a university professor known for her relationships with younger men, while Williams plays Henry Park, the missing heir to a powerful fishing empire.

The series also stars Noah Reid as private investigator Rapp and Clark Backo as detective Carson. Sandler serves as both writer and showrunner.

Set in a small coastal town, Yaga blends mystery, supernatural elements and psychological drama, with the series expected to debut in the United States on AMC+ later this year after premiering on Crave in Canada.

Williams, meanwhile, continues to enjoy a meteoric rise following the success of Heated Rivalry. The hockey romance drama became a breakout sensation after its late-2025 debut and turned the actor into one of Canada’s most talked-about young stars.

The actor recently won Best Lead Performance in a Drama Series at the Canadian Screen Awards for his portrayal of Shane Hollander, while Heated Rivalry itself took home 16 awards, including Best Drama Series.

Fans won’t have to wait too long to see more of Williams either. Production on Heated Rivalry Season 2 is set to begin later this summer, with new episodes expected to premiere in spring 2027.

For now, Moss seems more than happy to join the growing list of people singing his praises.

And if her comments are anything to go by, audiences can expect plenty of chemistry when Yaga finally arrives.

Chilling 911 Call Revealed After ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ Actor James Handy’s Fatal Stabbing

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New details have emerged in the tragic death of veteran actor James Handy after authorities revealed a chilling 911 confession linked to the fatal stabbing. The 81-year-old character actor, best known for appearances in films including Top Gun: Maverick, Jumanji, Logan and Arachnophobia, died on June 4 after being found with a stab wound to the chest outside his home in Tarzana, California. According to audio obtained by multiple outlets, the suspect allegedly made a disturbing admission during a 911 call placed shortly after the incident.

“I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin,” the caller reportedly told emergency dispatchers.

When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered Handy unconscious in the front yard of the residence. Paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Authorities have identified the suspect as 44-year-old Michael Gledhill, the son of Handy’s girlfriend. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, Gledhill allegedly approached responding officers and informed them he was the individual they were seeking.

Police say Gledhill lived at the home with his mother, who was in a relationship with Handy. Investigators have not yet publicly disclosed what may have led to the fatal confrontation.

The suspect has been arrested and charged with murder. He is currently being held on $2 million bail. Law enforcement officials have stated that they believe the incident was isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Handy built a career spanning nearly five decades, appearing in dozens of television shows and films. Audiences may recognize him from guest roles on The X-Files, NYPD Blue, Beverly Hills, 90210, Melrose Place, Walker, Texas Ranger and The West Wing.

One of his most recognizable film appearances came in the original Jumanji, while younger viewers may remember him from Top Gun: Maverick, where he portrayed bartender Jimmy in a memorable scene alongside Tom Cruise.

Handy’s final public appearance reportedly took place in 2017 at a theater event in Los Angeles.

As the investigation continues, fans and colleagues are remembering the actor for his extensive body of work and long-standing contributions to television and film.

Alexa Demie Finally Breaks Her Silence on Barbie Ferreira’s ‘Euphoria’ Exit

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Years after Barbie Ferreira’s shocking exit from Euphoria, co-star Alexa Demie has finally shared how she felt about the actress leaving the hit HBO drama. Speaking after the series finale aired, Demie reflected on Ferreira’s departure and admitted that while she was saddened by the decision, she ultimately understood and respected it. Ferreira portrayed Kat Hernandez, one of the show’s most popular characters during its first two seasons. However, following months of speculation and fan theories about her future on the series, the actress officially announced her departure before production on Season 3 began.

“I was bummed, but I really respected her decision. She has to take care of herself,” Demie said in a recent interview, adding that she viewed Ferreira’s choice as a brave one.

At the time, rumors surrounding her exit dominated social media, with many viewers questioning whether creative disagreements had played a role. Ferreira later addressed the situation herself, explaining that discussions about her character’s future had been ongoing for some time, but a direction that felt right never fully materialized.

Rather than continue with a storyline she wasn’t satisfied with, Ferreira chose to move on and explore new opportunities.

Demie’s comments provide one of the clearest indications yet that there was no apparent animosity from her fellow cast members regarding the decision. Instead, the actress emphasized the importance of prioritizing personal wellbeing and creative fulfillment, even when it means stepping away from one of television’s biggest shows.

The conversation arrives at a significant moment for Euphoria, which recently concluded its third and final season. The final chapter generated intense discussion among fans, with viewers debating major storylines, character arcs and the show’s overall direction.

Despite the mixed reactions surrounding the ending, one topic that continues to fascinate longtime fans is Ferreira’s departure and how different the series may have looked had Kat remained part of the story.

With the show now officially over, Demie’s remarks offer a rare glimpse into how those closest to the production viewed one of the most talked-about exits in modern television.

While fans may continue to wonder what could have been, Demie’s response suggests that sometimes leaving is simply the right decision for an artist, even when it means walking away from a global phenomenon.

Aubrey Plaza Puts Baby Bump on Display at NYC Premiere of ‘The Accompanist’

Aubrey Plaza made a memorable appearance at the New York premiere of her latest film, The Accompanist, but it wasn’t just the movie that had everyone talking. The actress stepped onto the red carpet at Manhattan’s SVA Theater on Thursday evening, proudly showing off her growing baby bump while posing for photographers. Dressed in a relaxed yet elegant ensemble, Plaza appeared in high spirits as she celebrated the release of the upcoming project. The White Lotus star was joined by co-star Susan Sarandon at the event, with the two actresses sharing several moments together on the red carpet. 

However, much of the attention remained focused on Plaza, who continues to embrace her pregnancy journey in the public eye. During a conversation with Entertainment Tonight at the premiere, Plaza also showcased her signature sense of humor. When asked who she would choose to assist during a home birth, the actress jokingly named Sarandon before adding a few other famous friends to her dream support team.

The playful remark follows a recent appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, where Plaza joked that either Meyers or actor Henry Winkler should help deliver her baby. The joke was a nod to Parks and Recreation, where Winkler’s character famously delivered the baby of Plaza’s character in one of the show’s memorable episodes.

The actress is currently expecting her first child with actor Christopher Abbott. The couple’s relationship became public after Plaza faced a deeply difficult period following the death of her husband, filmmaker Jeff Baena, in January 2025.

While Plaza has largely kept details of her personal life private, recent appearances suggest she is embracing this new chapter with confidence. Her red carpet outing quickly became one of the most talked-about celebrity moments of the evening, with fans praising both her glowing appearance and her ability to balance humor with grace.

With The Accompanist generating buzz ahead of its release, Plaza’s appearance ensured that all eyes remained firmly on her as she celebrated both a new film and an exciting personal milestone.

Amy Adams Admits Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg Left Her Terrified on ‘Cape Fear’ Set

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Working with Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg is a dream for most actors. For Amy Adams and Javier Bardem, it was also a little terrifying. The two Hollywood legends serve as executive producers on Apple TV+’s new adaptation of Cape Fear, and according to the cast and crew, they were far more involved than their titles might suggest. Showrunner Nick Antosca revealed that both filmmakers played an active role throughout production, reading scripts, reviewing edits and offering creative feedback. Their involvement stems from the duo’s connection to the 1991 Cape Fear film, which was directed by Scorsese and produced by Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment.

“They gave notes, they watched cuts and they read scripts,” Antosca shared, describing their contributions as invaluable to the series.

For Javier Bardem, who takes on the role of Max Cady, the pressure was immediate. The actor recalled an early table read where the cast gathered in a room while giant screens displayed Scorsese and Spielberg watching remotely.

“It was the most terrifying table read I’ve ever done,” Bardem admitted, joking that he was convinced Scorsese would fire him after hearing him read the iconic role.

Amy Adams had a similar reaction. The actress revealed that seeing Scorsese appear on screen during the first table read instantly made her nervous.

“The expletives that went through my head,” Adams joked. “I was sweating and trying so hard to prove I belonged there.”

Despite the nerves, Adams said having two of cinema’s greatest filmmakers involved was ultimately a rewarding experience. The actress, who previously worked with Spielberg in Catch Me If You Can, described him as a mentor and even a father figure throughout her career.

She credited the director for giving her confidence early in her Hollywood journey and said she still carries lessons learned from working with him more than two decades ago.

Antosca also revealed that Scorsese’s influence extended into the editing room. The filmmaker reportedly offered suggestions on building suspense, scene placement and even helped shape one of the show’s most brutal sequences involving Bardem’s character.

Meanwhile, Spielberg championed another key element of the series: its music. According to Antosca, the legendary director was passionate about incorporating Bernard Herrmann’s iconic Cape Fear score, believing it should feel like a character within the story itself.

The involvement of both directors has added an extra layer of prestige to the series, but it has also raised expectations among fans. With two of Hollywood’s most celebrated storytellers guiding the project from behind the scenes, Cape Fear arrives with the kind of creative pedigree few television dramas can match.

The first two episodes of Cape Fear are now streaming on Apple TV+.

‘Top Gun: Maverick’ Actor James Handy Dies at 81 After Fatal Stabbing in Los Angeles

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Veteran character actor James Handy, whose career spanned nearly five decades across film and television, has died at the age of 81 following a fatal stabbing in Los Angeles. According to reports, authorities responded to a residence in Tarzana on the morning of June 4 after receiving a disturbing call from a man who allegedly claimed responsibility for the attack. When officers arrived at the scene, Handy was found with multiple stab wounds and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Police identified the suspect as Michael Gledhill, the son of Handy’s girlfriend. The 44-year-old was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody. Investigators have not yet disclosed what may have led to the incident.

The shocking nature of Handy’s death has left many in Hollywood remembering a performer whose face was instantly recognizable, even if audiences did not always know his name.

Handy built one of those careers that quietly touched nearly every corner of American entertainment. With close to 150 screen credits, he appeared in a remarkable range of projects, including Jumanji, Logan, Arachnophobia and Taps. More recently, he was seen in Top Gun: Maverick, where he played Jimmy, the bartender who shares scenes with Tom Cruise’s Pete “Maverick” Mitchell.

Television viewers may remember him from appearances on iconic series such as The X-Files, NYPD Blue, The West Wing, Beverly Hills, 90210, Quantum Leap, Walker, Texas Ranger and Alias. He was one of Hollywood’s most dependable character actors, regularly bringing depth and authenticity to supporting roles.

While leading stars often receive the spotlight, actors like Handy form the backbone of the entertainment industry. His career is a reminder of how many beloved films and television shows are elevated by performers who consistently deliver memorable work without seeking the headlines.

As the investigation continues, tributes are expected to pour in from colleagues and fans who grew up watching his work across generations of television and film. James Handy lives by family, friends and a legacy built through decades of storytelling on screen.

Chris Hemsworth Reveals Passport Mix-Up That Got His Family Denied Boarding

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Chris Hemsworth may play a superhero on screen, but even Thor cannot defeat airport security. The actor recently revealed that he, wife Elsa Pataky and their children were once denied boarding for an international flight because of a passport mix-up. During an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, Hemsworth admitted that he accidentally brought his daughter’s passport instead of one of his sons’ passports. The Marvel star, who shares daughter India Rose and twin sons Sasha and Tristan with Pataky, tried to talk his way through the situation by insisting the document belonged to the child traveling with him. Unfortunately, airport officials were not convinced.

Hemsworth joked that his children “kind of look the same,” but Pataky immediately corrected him, making the story even funnier. The actor recalled telling the security agent that the passport belonged to his child, only to be told that the document clearly showed a different gender.

Unsurprisingly, the family could not board the flight.

The moment is funny because it feels surprisingly relatable. Celebrity travel is usually associated with private jets, luxury vacations and perfectly planned itineraries, but this story is proof that even famous families can be defeated by basic parenting chaos.

Hemsworth and Pataky, who married in 2010, have mostly kept their children away from constant public attention. However, the kids have occasionally appeared alongside their parents. India Rose had a small role in Thor: Love and Thunder, while Sasha and Tristan recently appeared in Pataky’s Spanish-language series The Tribute.

Still, Hemsworth has made it clear that he wants his children to enjoy a normal childhood before stepping too far into the entertainment world. He previously said that there is plenty of time for acting later, but childhood should come first.

That makes the passport story feel even more like a normal family moment. Behind the fame, global travel and blockbuster career, Hemsworth was simply a dad at the airport trying to fix a mistake and failing spectacularly.

At least now he has a travel lesson for the future: check every passport twice before leaving the house.