Celebrity
Oprah, Spielberg help Apple launch new streaming service
Published
7 years agoon
NEW YORK (AP) — Apple trotted out few details on its long-awaiting streaming service on Monday, but it didn’t skimp on high-wattage celebrity.
Oprah Winfrey, Steven Spielberg and Jennifer Aniston were part of a parade of A-listers who took the stage at Apple headquarters in Cupertino, California, where the main attractions are usually the company’s latest high-tech gadgets.
This time, though, it was the likes of Big Bird and Aquaman himself, Jason Momoa, who took the spotlight at Apple’s latest live-streamed product launch.
“I’m joining forces with Apple,” declared Winfrey. “They’re in a billion pockets, y’all.”
Apple chief executive Tim Cook gave what he called “a sneak peek” of the tech giant’s plans to transform television viewing and jump — some analysts say belatedly — into the streaming business Netflix has pioneered.
The service, dubbed Apple TV Plus, will debut in the fall in more than 100 countries and feature ad-free original series and films. Cook and Apple declined to say how much the nascent streaming service will cost. It was unveiled as an extension of Apple’s redesigned TV app, which will bundle third-party services like HBO, CBS and Showtime, along with a user’s cable subscription and some streaming services like Hulu. Netflix has said it won’t partake.
Standing out from the pack will be a challenge for each. Disney’s streaming service, named Disney-Plus, even bears a plus-symbol just like Apple’s service.
“It’s not just another streaming service,” said Zack Van Amburg, who along with Jamie Erlicht was hired away from Sony TV to head Apple’s video programming.
Cook didn’t map out how extensive Apple’s streaming library will be; it has about two dozen series and a handful of movies in the pipeline. But he promised big ambitions. “We partnered with the most thoughtful, accomplished and award-winning group of creative visionaries who have ever come together in one place, to create a new service unlike anything that’s been done before,” he said.
But what the presentation lacked in particulars it sought to make up for with star power and sizzle-reel teases of its upcoming slate. Some of the highlights:
— Oprah: Winfrey said she has two documentaries in the works for Apple TV Plus (one on mental health, one on the toll of sexual harassment in the workplace) and is planning “the most stimulating book club on the planet.” The TV personality, whose book club choices have made dozens of works into instant best-sellers, said the Apple broadcast will include streamed conversations with authors. Winfrey already has her OWN network and “O″ magazine where she still makes book picks, most recently Michelle Obama’s “Becoming.” ″I am proud to be a part of this platform where I can connect with people around the world to create positive change,” said Winfrey.
— “Amazing Stories”: Executive produced by Steve Spielberg, “Amazing Stories” is a science-fiction anthology series the filmmaker is reviving. It first ran for two seasons from 1985-1987 on NBC. “We want to transport the audience with every single episode,” said Spielberg.
— “The Morning Show”: Aniston, Reese Witherspoon and Steve Carell star in this series about the behind-the-scenes drama at a TV morning show. Witherspoon said it will “pull back the curtain on men and women in the high-stakes battle of morning television.” It is, notably, Aniston’s first time back in television since “Friends.” ″And I’m really excited about it,” she said.
— “Little America”: Kumail Nanjiani unveiled this anthology series based on true-life tales of immigrants or children of immigrants from across the country. “This is no such thing as the other,” said the comedian-actor-writer. “There is only us.”
— “See”: This post-apocalyptic series stars Jason Momoa and Alfre Woodard takes places centuries after a cataclysmic event where all of humanity has lost its sight.
Other shows in development include the thriller “Defending Jacob,” in which Chris Evans plays a father whose 14-year-old son is accused of murder; an untitled drama from M. Night Shyamalan; a series from “La La Land” director Damien Chazelle; a show about computer coding for preschoolers called “Helpsters,” with Big Bird; a drama series about youth basketball produced by Kevin Durant; “Dickinson,” starring Hailee Steinfeld as Emily Dickinson; and “Little Voice,” a show about a young musician produced by J. J. Abrams and Sara Bareilles, who performed the theme song Monday.
Apple’s nascent movie aims were harder to discern Monday. It previously entered into a partnership with A24, the indie label behind films like “Moonlight” and “Lady Bird.” Their first film together is to be “On the Rocks,” Sofia Coppola’s reunion with “Lost in Translation” star Bill Murray. He plays a larger-than-life father reconnecting with his daughter, played by Rashida Jones.
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ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) –Ananda Lewis, the charismatic MTV VJ and talk show host, passed away on June 11, 2025, at the age of 52, after a courageous battle with stage 4 breast cancer. Her sister, Lakshmi Emory, confirmed the news, sharing that Ananda passed away peacefully in her Los Angeles home.
Born on March 21, 1973, in San Diego, California, Lewis rose to prominence in the late 1990s as a VJ on MTV, hosting shows like Total Request Live and Hot Zone. Her engaging personality and insightful interviews made her a beloved figure among viewers, and she earned accolades such as an NAACP Image Award for her work on BET’s Teen Summit.
Beyond her television career, Lewis was a passionate advocate for social issues. She launched The Ananda Lewis Show in 2001, addressing topics like domestic violence and breast cancer, aiming to provide a platform for meaningful conversations. Her commitment to authenticity and social impact resonated with many, and she continued to use her platform to inspire and educate.
In 2020, Lewis publicly disclosed her diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer and later revealed that it had progressed to stage 4. Despite medical advice recommending a double mastectomy, she chose alternative treatments, later expressing some regret about that decision. Throughout her illness, Lewis remained vocal about cancer awareness, encouraging women to prioritize their health and live authentically.
Ananda Lewis leaves behind a legacy of empowerment, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to her values. Her influence extended beyond the entertainment industry, inspiring countless individuals to embrace authenticity and advocate for positive change.
Her passing marks the loss of a significant figure in entertainment who also became a voice for health advocacy. Her legacy includes a strong commitment to authenticity and social impact, and her estimated financial worth was around $8 million.
Ananda Lewis’s impact on television and her dedication to social causes have left an indelible mark on the industry and the hearts of many.
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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) –Val Kilmer, one of Hollywood’s most memorable actors, has passed away at the age of 65. Known for his dynamic range and unmistakable voice, Kilmer captivated audiences with his standout performances in a career that spanned over four decades.
A Career Full of Iconic Roles
Kilmer’s breakout role came in the 1980s with Top Gun (1986), where he portrayed the cocky and charming fighter pilot, Iceman. The film catapulted him into stardom alongside Tom Cruise, and it remains one of the most iconic films in Hollywood history. Kilmer’s portrayal of Iceman left an indelible mark on pop culture, with his line “I am dangerous” becoming an enduring catchphrase.
Beyond Top Gun, Kilmer’s career featured a diverse range of roles, from playing the suave rock star in The Doors (1991) to the legendary Batman in Batman Forever (1995). He brought depth to each of his characters, making them memorable even in smaller roles, such as his comedic turn in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005). His performances were often praised for their intensity, wit, and ability to disappear into his roles.
A Life Beyond the Screen
Kilmer’s life was marked by both triumph and personal struggles. Despite his fame, he was known for his private nature and his journey battling throat cancer. In recent years, Kilmer’s health struggles became widely known, as he had to undergo a series of surgeries that left him with a diminished ability to speak. However, he continued to embrace his craft and the fans who loved him, most recently appearing in Top Gun: Maverick (2022), a sequel to the film that first made him a star.
The documentary Val (2021) offered fans a rare, candid look into his life, showcasing not only his successes but also his personal battles and the deep affection he had for his craft. Through this film, Kilmer shared never-before-seen footage from his personal archive, allowing fans to see the man behind the roles.
A Legacy That Will Live On
Kilmer’s death marks the end of an era for Hollywood. He leaves behind a legacy of timeless performances that will continue to resonate with generations of fans. From the depths of his dramatic portrayals to the highs of his action-packed roles, Val Kilmer’s impact on cinema is undeniable. His unforgettable presence and voice, once a hallmark of his performances, will be greatly missed by fans and colleagues alike.
Val Kilmer is survived by his children and countless fans who cherished him throughout his illustrious career. His contributions to film will continue to inspire new audiences for years to come, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the ability of one man to shape the very fabric of cinema.
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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com
Celebrity
LPGA Pros Shutout Celebs at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions “Break The Glass” Challenge
Published
1 year agoon
January 28, 2025By
Mike Brodsky
ORLANDO, Fla. (Florida National News) – Some big names in sports, entertainment, and music can be found with golf clubs in hand at The Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club, this weekend. About 50 celebrities will compete for a $500,000 purse, while LPGA Tour players try to grab their share of $2 million in prize money.
Today, LPGA pros Megan Khang, Alexa Pano, and Bailey Tardy took on celebrities Landon Donovan, Major League Soccer legend, Michael Peña, award-winning actor, and Kira Dixon, Reporter and Miss America 2015 in the annual “Break The Glass” challenge. The LPGA pros shutout the celebs 3-0. You can watch the action here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFYsQKbyiAi/?igsh=YzZlNG9rNXhvbnRy. (And be sure to follow Florida National News on Instagram and Facebook.)
Lydia Ko returns to defend her title, after adding an Olympic gold medal and membership in the LPGA Hall of Fame to her resume since last year’s tournament. Actors Don Cheadle and Larry The Cable Guy, NBA stars Blake Griffin and Ray Allen, and Pro Football Hall of Famers Marcus Allen and Charles Woodson are just some of the celebs hitting the links Thursday, 1/30 through Sunday, 2/2. Tickets and more information are available online at http://www.HGVLPGA.com.
