ABC Affiliates to Replace ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ for Charlie Kirk Tribute Special Following Controversial Remarks

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September 18, 2025

ABC Affiliates to Preempt ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ for Tribute Special Following Controversial Remarks

Dozens of ABC affiliate stations will air a tribute special in remembrance of Charlie Kirk in place of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Friday. This decision, led by Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group, follows Disney’s indefinite suspension of the show after the host made controversial remarks about the assassination of the conservative activist.

Sinclair, which operates 30 ABC affiliates, announced its plans to air the special shortly after Disney’s decision. “Mr. Kimmel’s remarks were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country,” said Sinclair Vice Chairman Jason Smith in a statement. The company also called for Jimmy Kimmel to issue a direct apology and make a personal donation to the Kirk family and Turning Point USA, a group founded by Kirk. Smith added that Sinclair would not reinstate the show until appropriate steps are taken to uphold broadcast standards.

Nexstar, another major owner of ABC affiliates, had also announced its decision to preempt the program. “Mr. Kimmel’s comments about the death of Mr. Kirk are offensive and insensitive… and we do not believe they reflect the spectrum of opinions, views, or values of the local communities,” said Andrew Alford, President of Nexstar’s Broadcasting Division. He stated that preempting the show was “in an effort to let cooler heads prevail.”

The controversy stems from comments Kimmel made in a monologue, where he accused conservatives of “desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them.” While some of Kimmel’s defenders have suggested his remarks were taken out of context, Disney ultimately decided to suspend the program before Kimmel could address the backlash on his show.

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Guest Dies After Riding Stardust Racers at Universal’s Epic Universe

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Chip

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September 18, 2025

Guest Dies After Riding Coaster at Universal's Epic Universe

Guest Found Unresponsive Following Ride on Stardust Racers at Epic Universe

A guest at Epic Universe has died following a ride on the park’s dual rollercoaster, Stardust Racers, late Wednesday. The incident is currently under investigation by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a statement from Universal, the guest was found unresponsive after the ride and was transported to the hospital, where they later died.

In response to the tragic event, a Universal spokesperson released the following statement: “We are cooperating with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office following a tragic event involving a guest at Epic Universe on Wednesday night. The guest became unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers and was transported to the hospital, where the guest later died. We are devastated by this event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones. We are fully committed to cooperating with this ongoing investigation. The attraction remains closed.”

Universal Orlando Shares First Look at Stardust Racers Coaster Coming to Epic Universe 2

There is no word on whether the coaster will reopen on Thursday.

Disney Destiny Theater Cast Arrives in Germany to Prepare for Stage Shows

By

Sara

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September 17, 2025

Disney Destiny Cast Heads to Germany for Show Preparations

The Disney Destiny’s inaugural cast has arrived in Papenburg, Germany! The performers got their first look at the ship’s Walt Disney Theatre, where they’ll spend the next few weeks rehearsing for three Broadway-style shows. The lineup includes fan favorites “Disney Seas the Adventure” and “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” as well as the brand-new “Disney Hercules.”

Before going the distance to Germany, the cast spent 11 weeks at Disney Cruise Line’s entertainment facility in Toronto, Canada, learning dialogue, choreography, and other show material for “Disney Hercules.” They prepared high-energy numbers, like “Zero to Hero,” using rehearsal puppets, sample costume pieces, and scenic elements similar to those on the Walt Disney Theatre stage.

As the cast steps into the spotlight at the Walt Disney Theatre, they will begin incorporating technical elements into their rehearsals, including costumes, sets, and state-of-the-art puppetry, to help bring the Walt Disney Animation Studios film to the stage like never before.

Central Florida Zoo to host farewell party for PJ on World Rhino Day

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Catherine

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September 17, 2025

Central Florida Zoo to Host Farewell Party for PJ the Rhino

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is inviting the public to a special farewell party for PJ, a beloved greater one-horned rhinoceros who has called the zoo home for 13 years. The celebration, held on World Rhino Day, September 20, will give the community a chance to say goodbye before PJ embarks on his next big adventure.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., guests can join in a rhino-sized celebration of PJ’s life and his important new role. The day’s events will include keeper chats, rhino-themed activities, and a table featuring artwork created by PJ himself. Visitors will also have the opportunity to make cards to wish PJ well on his journey.

A New Chapter for PJ and Rhino Conservation

PJ’s move is part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a crucial conservation program designed to help endangered animal species thrive. He’s heading to the Buffalo Zoo to become a future breeding male, where he will play a vital role in helping to grow and protect the population of greater one-horned rhinos for generations to come.

In honor of World Rhino Day, the International Rhino Foundation will also be on-site with information and fun activities about all five rhino species.

Silent Auction and Event Details

Guests can view and purchase PJ’s unique painted art pieces at a silent auction. The PJ Farewell Auction is live from September 15 at 9 a.m. and closes on September 20 at 3 p.m.

The event is included with general Zoo admission. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens website.

ABC Suspends ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ After Host’s Remarks on Charlie Kirk Assassination

By

Chip

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September 17, 2025

ABC Suspends 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' After Host's Remarks

Late-Night Show Indefinitely Preempted Following Controversial Comments on Charlie Kirk Assassination

ABC has indefinitely suspended the popular late-night show Jimmy Kimmel Live! following controversial remarks made by the host concerning the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

His remark:

“We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it,” Kimmel said.

The show will be “preempted indefinitely,” a network spokesperson confirmed, in a move that follows similar actions by major affiliate station groups.

The decision comes shortly after Nexstar, one of the largest owners of local TV stations in the U.S., announced it would preempt the show. According to a report from The Hollywood Reporter, ABC had also been contacted by at least one other station group, suggesting that an affiliate revolt may have influenced the network’s decision.

Andrew Alford, President of Nexstar’s Broadcasting Division, commented on the decision. “Mr. Kimmel’s comments about the death of Mr. Kirk are offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national political discourse, and we do not believe they reflect the spectrum of opinions, views, or values of the local communities in which we are located,” Alford said. “Continuing to give Mr. Kimmel a broadcast platform… is simply not in the public interest at the current time.”

Federal Communications Commission chair Brendan Carr also weighed in on the controversy. In a statement on Kimmel’s initial comments, Carr said that the remarks “appear to be an action by Jimmy Kimmel to play into the narrative that this was somehow a MAGA or Republican-motivated person.” Carr added that broadcasters have an “obligation to operate in the public interest” and that a failure to “change conduct” could lead to “additional work for the FCC ahead.”

Carr later thanked Nexstar for their decision, stating, “I hope that other broadcasters follow Nexstar’s lead.” The controversy stemmed from Kimmel’s comment that, “We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”

Judge Signs off on Disney’s $233 Million Wage Theft Settlement

By

Sara

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September 17, 2025

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Federal judge approves Disney’s $233 million wage theft settlement

An Orange County judge has approved a $233 million settlement in a wage theft lawsuit filed by more than 51,000 Disneyland employees. The decision, made on Tuesday, September 16, brings an end to a six-year legal dispute regarding employee pay at the Anaheim theme park.

The OC Register reports that Judge William Claster of the Orange County Superior Court gave final approval to the class-action lawsuit against Disneyland. The lawsuit was based on the theme park’s failure to pay employees in compliance with Anaheim’s “living wage” ordinance.

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“This is the end of the lawsuit,” said Richard McCracken, the lead attorney for the employees. “We believe this is the largest wage class action settlement in California history.”

Final reports on the payments to each class member are due by June 30, 2026. The employees are represented by lawyers from McCracken, Stemerman & Holsberry and Hadsell, Stormer Renick & Dai.

According to McCracken, the average payment for each employee is estimated to be around $3,000. He added that this amount is highly unusual for a class-action lawsuit, saying, “It’s usually a coupon to buy an ice cream.”

A Disney spokesperson stated that the company “cares deeply about our cast members” and is “pleased that this matter is nearing resolution.”

The lawsuit began when Disney claimed it was exempt from Measure L, a “living wage” initiative that was approved by voters in 2018. The measure required any businesses in Anaheim’s resort district receiving city tax subsidies to pay employees at least $15 an hour starting January 1, 2019, with wages increasing annually until 2022.

In 2019, several unions representing Disneyland employees filed a lawsuit. Initially, a judge sided with Disney in 2021, but the unions appealed that decision. In July 2023, a three-judge panel for California’s Fourth Appellate District reversed the lower court’s ruling.

According to a recent court filing, the settlement breaks down like this: $179.6 million will be given to the employees in back pay and retirement contributions. Additionally, $17.5 million in penalties will be paid to the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency, while $35 million will cover attorney fees. The rest of the money will be used for administering the settlement.

Disney Announces New ‘Camp Rock 3’ Movie for Disney+ and Disney Channel

By

Sara

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September 17, 2025

Camp Rock 3 is in the works for Disney+ and Disney Channel

Great news for Camp Rock fans! Disney Branded Television has officially greenlit Camp Rock 3, which will premiere on Disney+ and Disney Channel. Joe, Nick, and Kevin Jonas are set to reprise their iconic roles. The Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato will also serve as executive producers for the highly anticipated film, which began filming this week in Vancouver.

A new group of talented young actors are joining the Camp Rock cast, including Liamani Segura as Sage, Malachi Barton as Fletch, Lumi Pollack as Rosie, and newcomer Hudson Stone as Desi. Casey Trotter, Brooklynn Pitts, and Ava Jean will also star as Cliff, Callie, and Madison, respectively.

Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas, and Kevin Jonas are all set to return as the members of the band Connect 3. Maria Canals-Barrera will also be reprising her role as Connie, and Sherry Cola joins the franchise as a new character, Lark.

In Camp Rock 3, the story follows the band Connect 3 after they lose the opening act for their reunion tour. They return to their old stomping grounds to find the next big musical act. As the campers compete for this coveted spot, old friendships are tested, and new relationships are formed.

The movie will introduce a new cast of characters, including the ambitious Sage and her brother Desi, cello prodigy Rosie, drummer Cliff, choreographer Callie, influential Madison, and the rebellious Fletch.

“Camp Rock is an important part of the Disney Channel Original Movie legacy,” said Ayo Davis, President of Disney Branded Television. “It has unforgettable music, energetic storytelling, and characters that fans still love. Bringing it back with Kevin, Joe, Nick, and Demi is a full-circle moment, and we can’t wait to reintroduce this world to a new generation.”

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First Look at Ryan Gosling in Star Wars: Starfighter

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Sara

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September 17, 2025

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Star Wars: Starfighter reveals the first look at Ryan Gosling’s character

From a galaxy far, far away to the Mediterranean Sea, director Shawn Levy has offered fans their first glimpse of Star Wars: Starfighter. The upcoming spin-off stars Ryan Gosling alongside newcomer Flynn Gray.

While the plot is still under wraps, Lucasfilm has confirmed that Starfighter is an original story set in a new Star Warsera. The standalone film focuses on new characters and reportedly takes place about five years after the events of 2019’s Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

The image shows Gosling and Gray’s characters in disheveled clothes, stranded on a makeshift raft. This scenic and somewhat mundane setting, which director Shawn Levy captioned “Somewhere in the Mediterranean Sea” and tagged as being in Sardinia, Italy, is a major departure from the usual desert or galactic battlefields seen in past Star Wars films like those on Tatooine and Jakku.

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In addition to Gosling and Gray, the film features a star-studded cast that includes Amy Adams, Matt Smith, and Mia Goth. Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, and Daniel Ings will also appear in the movie. The screenplay is written by Jonathan Tropper, and Shawn Levy will produce alongside Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy.

Are you excited for a new Star Wars movie?

Utkarsh Ambudkar and Ginnifer Goodwin Join the Cast of Disney Jr.’s Hit Series ‘Superkitties’

By

Catherine

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September 17, 2025

Utkarsh Ambudkar and Ginnifer Goodwin Join the Cast of Disney Jr.’s Hit Series ‘Superkitties’

Get ready for some glamorous new mischief in the town of Kittydale! Disney Junior’s popular animated series “Superkitties” is adding two familiar voices to its cast for the upcoming third season: Utkarsh Ambudkar and Ginnifer Goodwin.

The duo will be voicing the show’s newest villains, a hilariously clueless and glamorous brother and sister hamster team known as the Glamsters. Ambudkar, known for his role on the CBS comedy “Ghosts,” will voice Champster Glamster, while Goodwin, who famously voiced Judy Hopps in Disney’s “Zootopia” franchise, will play his sister, Pamster Glamster.

The new season of “Superkitties” will feature a “Su-Purr Wild” story arc, which sees the furry heroes venturing into the Kittydale Wild Jungle to team up with their wildcat friend, Willa. The series, which has been a hit with preschoolers since its debut in 2023, has garnered over 6.5 billion minutes watched across streaming and linear platforms.

“I love working with Disney and typically get cast as one of the ‘good guys,’ so playing the villain this time was a refreshing switch-up,” Goodwin told Collider. “But let’s be honest, can we really call Pamster Glamster a villain? She’s way too fabulous for that!”

Ambudkar expressed his excitement about the role, saying, “Getting to play a singing, troublemaking hamster has always been a dream of mine…I love doing voiceover work for animation, and it’s always fun when it’s something my kids can watch and get a good laugh at too.”

The new season of “Superkitties” is set to premiere on Monday, September 22, on Disney Jr. and Disney Channel, with the first six episodes becoming available to stream on Disney+ on October 1. The new season will also be accompanied by a new soundtrack from Walt Disney Records, “Disney Jr. Music: Superkitties Su-Purr Wild Original Soundtrack,” which will be released on Friday, September 19.

Fans can look forward to seeing the Superkitties—Ginny, Sparks, Buddy, and Bitsy—take on their most glamorous foes yet when the new season of “Superkitties” debuts this fall.

Light Up the Night with the New Fantasmic Glow in the Dark Baseball Hat!

By

Ana Leal

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September 17, 2025

Light Up the Night with the New Fantasmic Glow in the Dark Baseball Hat!

Looking for the perfect accessory to show your love for one of Disney’s most spectacular nighttime shows? Look no further than the Fantasmic Glow in the Dark Baseball Hat, now available at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! This hat is the perfect blend of style and fandom, making it a must-have for any Disney Parks enthusiast.

This awesome hat retails for $29.99, a small price to pay to carry a piece of the magic with you wherever you go. Head over to Hollywood Studios to grab yours and get ready to light up the night!

The hat itself is classic black, providing a sleek backdrop for the eye-catching design. Front and center is the iconic “Fantasmic!” logo, emblazoned in fiery red lettering that really pops. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Below the logo, a triumphant Sorcerer Mickey gazes up at the show’s title, ready to conduct the fantastical scenes of his imagination. The whole design is brought to life with a sprinkling of stars and fireworks, capturing the epic feel of the show.

But here’s the coolest part, the hat isn’t just for daytime wear. A sticker on the brim reveals that the cap glows in the dark! Imagine wearing this as you watch the show, the hat’s design glowing in sync with the performance. The back of the hat features the Hollywood Studios wordmark embroidered in red, a subtle nod to where the magic happens. With an adjustable strap in the back, it’s a comfortable and perfect fit for almost any head size.

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Get Spooky with the New Mickey and Minnie Halloween Create Your Own Headband Plushies at Hollywood Studios!

By

Ana Leal

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September 17, 2025

Get Spooky with the New Mickey and Minnie Halloween Create Your Own Headband Plushies at Hollywood Studios!

If you’re heading to Hollywood Studios this Halloween season, you’ve got to check out the new Mickey and Minnie Halloween Create Your Own Headband Plushies! For just $11.99 each, these plush are the perfect way to add a touch of Disney magic to your spooky style.

First up, we have Mickey Mouse as a vampire! This little guy is ready for a fright with his tiny fangs and a classic black and red vampire cape. He’s the perfect accessory for anyone looking to sink their teeth into the Halloween spirit. Next, we have Minnie Mouse in her adorable witch costume. Her pointy hat is absolutely charming, and she’s ready to cast a spell of fun on your Disney day.

And of course, it wouldn’t be Halloween without a pumpkin! You can also snag a Mickey Mouse pumpkin plush to celebrate the spooky season. Whether you’re a fan of trick-or-treating or just love a good pumpkin patch, this little Jack-o’-lantern is the perfect addition to your holiday look. So, get creative and mix and match your favorites to create a one-of-a-kind headband that’s all your own!

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Go the Distance with the New Hercules Collection at the Disney Store!

By

Ana Leal

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September 17, 2025

Go the Distance with the New Hercules Collection at the Disney Store!

We have some exciting news for all you demigods and fans of the classics out there! The Disney Store is celebrating one of our all-time favorite heroes with a brand-new Hercules Collection, and trust us, you’re going to want to add these pieces to your training montage immediately. From cozy sweaters to athletic gear, this collection has everything you need to go from zero to hero.

Gear Up for Glory

First up, let’s talk about the Hercules Spirit Jersey. This thing is seriously out of this world! It features an allover starry night print that’ll have you feeling like you’re soaring through the heavens. With the movie’s logo in metallic gold puff print on the back and the symbol of the gods on the front, this jersey is truly a heroic statement. It’s perfect for those cool nights when you want to feel both stylish and powerful.

If you’re looking to add a little more charm to your closet, the Hercules Cardigan is a must-have. This knit is wrapped in legendary style, featuring Hercules, Pegasus, and Hades in a dreamy pastel palette. Complete with cloud motifs and sunny yellow trims, it’s a wearable tribute to Mount Olympus itself. It’s perfect for everyday quests or just cozying up with a good movie.

For those of you who train like a true demigod, the Hercules Sports Jersey is where it’s at. With bold graphics, classic varsity styling, and the iconic ’97’ on the back, this comfortable top is your new go-to. Whether you’re hitting the gym or just showing off your might around town, this jersey is ready for action.

Mythical Companions

And what’s a hero without his trusty sidekick? You can now cuddle up with a larger-than-life Pegasus Large Soft Toy! This high-flying pal has a cloud-white coat, sky-blue mane, and soft, fluttery wings. He’s ready to gallop straight into your heart and bring a touch of magic to every moment. If you prefer your mythical companions on the go, the Disney Store Japan Pegasus Keyring is perfect. This pocket-sized soft toy clips onto your keys, bag, or backpack, so your imagination can take flight wherever you are.

A Mug and Collectibles Fit for a God

Don’t forget to fuel up for your morning quests with the mighty Hercules Mug. Featuring bold artwork of Hercules, Meg, and Phil, along with striking Greek key details and lightning bolt accents, this mug is the perfect way to power through your day. No training montage required! And for all you collectors out there, there’s also the limited edition Hercules Collectible Key featuring Hercules and Phil, a perfect keepsake for any fan.

This collection is a true tribute to the legendary hero and his epic journey. Head over to the Disney Store to grab these items and prove that you, too, can go the distance! Which item are you most excited to get your hands on?

Credit: Disney Store