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Category: TV & Movies
ABBA Fever Hits SNL: Can You Handle the Sequins and Synchronized Laughter?
It was an “old home week” to remember on Saturday Night Live, as former cast members Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph joined host Kate McKinnon for a side-splitting spoof of the iconic Swedish pop group, ABBA. The sketch, disguised as a late-night infomercial, sent up everything from the band’s signature sequin-spangled costumes to their penchant for synchronized choreography (with a healthy dose of goofball charm thrown in).
James Austin Johnson took center stage as the over-enthusiastic presenter, hawking ABBA’s “newly unearthed” 1978 Christmas album, “ABBA Jul,” “coming to you, like a reindeer flying through the sky, for the first time ever!” With promises of “15 brand new Christmas classics and 85 holiday remakes of their existing songs,” the excitement soared higher than Agnetha Fältskog’s high notes.
McKinnon, resplendent in a mirror-covered red dress and matching fishnet stockings, embodied Anni-Frid Lyngstad with a playful wink and a perfectly executed Swedish chef accent. Wiig, clad in a green leopard-skinned jumpsuit, channeled Agnetha’s ethereal coolness with a touch of deadpan humor. Rudolph, in a superhero-esque get-up complete with a feather boa and sparkly gloves, nailed Björn Ulvaeus’ flamboyant stage presence with gusto. Completing the quartet was cast member Bowen Yang, looking every bit the disco-era Björn Andersson in a Barry Gibb-meets-musketeer ensemble.
The comedic gems flew fast and furious as the infomercial unfolded. Songs like “Santa Queen” (a glittery reimagining of “Dancing Queen”) and “Who’s That Baby?” (a cheeky spin on “Take a Chance on Me”) had the audience in stitches. But the pièce de résistance was undoubtedly “Frostitita,” a “wintry take” on “Chiquitita” featuring Rudolph belting out lyrics about a depressed snowwoman with remarkable gusto.
Of course, no ABBA parody would be complete without their signature synchronized dance moves. And while the SNL ensemble nailed the iconic formation of standing close, facing different directions, it was the subtle breakdowns in synchronization that truly stole the show. Wiig and McKinnon, in particular, seemed to struggle to contain their laughter as they pressed their faces together, their smiles threatening to shatter the facade of pop star poise.
But beyond the silliness, there was a genuine love and appreciation for ABBA woven throughout the sketch. The costumes, meticulously recreated and dripping with 70s glam, were a visual feast. The vocal performances, while exaggerated for comedic effect, still showcased the talent and musicality of the original band. And even the most ridiculous lyrics (“Shake a tambourine because you’re seventeen!” sung to baby Jesus in “Away in a Manger”) had a sense of playful reverence for ABBA’s unique brand of pop perfection.
Ultimately, “SNL’s” ABBA spoof was more than just a bit. It was a joyous celebration of a band whose music has brought joy to millions for generations. It was a reminder that laughter and a little bit of absurdity can go a long way, even during the holiday season. And it was a testament to the comedic brilliance of Kate McKinnon, Kristen Wiig, and Maya Rudolph, who proved that even in their post-SNL days, they can still light up the stage with their infectious humor and boundless talent.
So, grab your platform shoes, put on your brightest sequined jacket, and crank up the Mamma Mia soundtrack. Because thanks to Saturday Night Live, ABBA fever is alive and well.
Mayim Bialik Makes a Surprising Exit from “Jeopardy!” – What’s Next for the Beloved Show?
In a turn of events that will likely disappoint fans of the beloved quiz show, Mayim Bialik has confirmed that she will no longer be hosting the syndicated version of “Jeopardy!” The news comes just months after she and “Jeopardy!” legend Ken Jennings were named co-hosts following a lengthy search for the successor to the late Alex Trebek.
View this post on InstagramBialik announced the news on her social media platforms on Friday, December 15th, with a heartfelt message expressing gratitude for her time on the show. “As the holiday break begins in Hollywood, I have some Jeopardy! news,” she wrote. “Sony has informed me that I will no longer be hosting the syndicated version of Jeopardy!”
The official “Jeopardy!” account followed up Bialik’s announcement with a statement of their own, confirming the decision and praising her contributions. “We made the decision to have one host for the syndicated show next season to maintain continuity for our viewers,” the statement read. “Ken Jennings will be the sole host for syndicated ‘Jeopardy!’ and we are grateful for all of Mayim’s contributions to the show. We hope to continue to work with her on primetime specials.”
The news of Bialik’s departure has sparked mixed reactions from fans. Some expressed disappointment, having grown accustomed to her presence and warm demeanor behind the podium. Others voiced support for the show’s decision, arguing that having a single host, especially the highly respected Jennings, would better emulate the classic “Jeopardy!” experience.
Bialik’s tenure as host was marked by both challenges and triumphs. She faced criticism initially, with some questioning her qualifications for the role and comparing her hosting style unfavorably to Trebek’s. However, she quickly won over many viewers with her intelligence, wit, and genuine enthusiasm for the game. She also made strides in representing marginalized communities on the show, hosting episodes that featured all-female contestants and contestants from diverse backgrounds.
While no official reason has been given for Bialik’s departure, speculation is rife. Some reports suggest that the show’s producers ultimately felt that having two hosts created logistical challenges and a lack of consistency in the viewing experience. Others believe that Jennings’ immense popularity, coupled with his status as a “Jeopardy!” champion, made him the more natural choice for the single host role.
Whatever the reason, Bialik’s exit leaves a void in the “Jeopardy!” family. Her presence brought a fresh perspective and a touch of warmth to the show, while her dedication to inclusivity and representation resonated with many viewers. It remains to be seen how Jennings will handle the solo hosting role, and whether the show will introduce any new elements or formats in the future.
One thing is certain: “Jeopardy!” will continue to be a cultural touchstone, drawing in audiences with its challenging questions, engaging format, and timeless appeal. While Bialik’s journey on the show may have come to an end, her contributions will undoubtedly be remembered fondly by fans and Jeopardy! enthusiasts alike.
Posters, Proposals, and a Prince: The Real-Life Love Story That “The Crown” Can’t Capture
The fifth season of Netflix’s hit royal drama, “The Crown,” has fans buzzing with a fictionalized meeting between Kate Middleton and Princess Diana. This intriguing scene begs the question: did these two royal figures ever cross paths in real life? The answer, while captivating for its intrigue, is unfortunately no.
Did Kate Middleton ever meet Princess Diana?
Photo : CHRIS JACKSON/GETTY; TIM GRAHAM PHOTO LIBRARY VIA GETTY Despite “The Crown’s” poignant portrayal, Kate Middleton tragically never met her future mother-in-law, Princess Diana. Diana tragically passed away in a car accident in 1997, when Prince William was just 15 and Kate was a 16-year-old student at St. Andrew’s School. Sadly, Kate wouldn’t enter William’s life for another five years, meeting him at university in 2001.
Both Kate and William have openly spoken about their shared loss and the void left by Diana’s absence. In a 2023 event, Kate expressed, “I never, sadly, got to meet her,” but added, “I would have loved to have known her.” She further spoke of how Diana would have been a “brilliant” grandmother to their children.
Did Kate Middleton really have posters of Prince William on her wall?
CHRIS JACKSON/GETTY While “The Crown” depicts a teenage Kate adorning her walls with William’s photos, this particular detail remains unconfirmed. Kate herself has never directly addressed the poster claim, leaving room for speculation. However, it’s well documented that Kate and William knew of each other during their school years, even attending the same parties on occasion. It’s not unlikely that Kate, like many teenage girls, held an admiration for William, but the extent of that admiration, including poster-worthy adoration, remains a mystery.
How did Kate Middleton and Prince William first meet?
Photo: CHRIS JACKSON/GETTY The real-life love story of Kate and William unfolded at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Both enrolled in the same Art History program and resided in the same student hall, St. Salvator’s College. Their friendship blossomed over the years, culminating in a romance that bloomed during their second year. As their bond deepened, they shared apartments, vacationed together, and faced the pressures of media scrutiny with growing confidence.
Their relationship progressed steadily, weathering temporary breaks and solidifying into a committed partnership. Finally, in 2010, after nearly a decade of dating, William proposed to Kate in Kenya, presenting her with Princess Diana’s iconic sapphire and diamond engagement ring. Their fairytale wedding captivated the world in 2011, and the couple went on to become parents to three beautiful children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Beyond “The Crown”: Understanding the Power of Fictionalized Narratives
While “The Crown” takes creative liberties with historical events, its dramatized portrayal of Kate and Diana’s “meeting” serves as a reminder of the profound impact Diana continues to have on the royal family and public imagination. The scene, though fictitious, allows viewers to contemplate the potential bond these two remarkable women could have shared.
However, it’s crucial to remember the distinction between fact and fiction. “The Crown” is a work of art, not a documentary, and its creative license serves to entertain and provoke thought, not necessarily document historical accuracy. By understanding this distinction, we can appreciate the show’s artistic merit while holding onto the real-life stories that continue to fascinate us.
In conclusion, while The Crown may have offered a glimpse into what could have been, the true story of Kate and William’s relationship, forged in friendship and strengthened by shared experiences, remains their own. It’s a love story for the modern age, one that continues to inspire millions across the globe. And while Diana’s absence leaves a void that can never be truly filled, it’s her enduring legacy that continues to shape the lives of those closest to her, even the ones she sadly never met.
From Loompaland to Dreamhouse: Timothée Chalamet’s Whimsical Brush with “Barbie” and the Mystery of the Reject French Ken
Hollywood heartthrob Timothée Chalamet may have missed out on the pinktastic playground of Greta Gerwig’s record-breaking “Barbie,” but the mystery of his scrapped cameo remains a delightful enigma. Scheduled conflicts tragically robbed the world of witnessing Chalamet and his “Lady Bird” and “Little Women” co-star Saoirse Ronan gracing the candy-colored celluloid, leaving fans to speculate about their unrealized roles.
Speaking on “The Tonight Show,” Chalamet, ever the charming enigma, shed some light on the lost footage of his cinematic dreams. “There was an idea for Saoirse Ronan and I to do a cameo in it,” he revealed, leaving a tantalizing trail of “what ifs” in his wake. But when it came to specifics, the actor was as clueless as a doll missing a limb. “I don’t know what the cameo would’ve been,” he admitted, chuckling.
However, Chalamet, ever the collaborator, had his own playful theories. “I think it would’ve been one of the rejected Kens or Barbies,” he mused, his voice dripping with mischievous sarcasm. “Not Alan! Maybe there was a reject French one along the way.” The mere mention of a “reject French Ken” conjures up visions of Chalamet sporting a perfectly tousled beret and a brooding existentialist stare, perpetually lost in a croissant-fueled philosophical crisis amidst the plastic perfection of Barbie Land.
Gerwig herself confirmed the lost opportunity in an earlier interview, admitting, “I tried to get them both in it. They both couldn’t do it.” The director, however, remained tight-lipped about the specifics of their intended roles, adding to the mystique surrounding Chalamet’s phantom performance.
While details may be scarce, the rumor mill has gone into overdrive, churning out outlandish scenarios. Was Chalamet a rebellious Ken doll yearning for artistic freedom? Or perhaps a lovelorn Romeo to a heartbroken Barbie, their forbidden romance echoing across the aisles of the Dreamhouse?
The possibilities are as endless as the imagination, fueled by Chalamet’s inherent charisma and the boundless, subversive potential of Gerwig’s “Barbie” universe. In its absence, his phantom cameo becomes a shimmering mirage, a testament to the creative sparks that could have been, yet leaves us with a smile.
Chalamet, however, refuses to dwell on the missed opportunity. “I was on the Warner Bros. UK lot shooting ‘Wonka’ while they were doing ‘Barbie’,” he shared, his voice laced with an almost tangible sense of wistful curiosity. “So at least I got to smell the pink fumes from afar.”
The image of Chalamet, decked out in his flamboyant Willy Wonka attire, inhaling the heady scent of plastic perfection from across the set, is pure cinematic gold. It’s a moment of meta-humor that embodies the playful spirit of Gerwig’s film, even in its absence.
While the mystery of Chalamet’s “Barbie” cameo may remain forever unsolved, its very existence adds a layer of playful intrigue to the film. It serves as a reminder that even the biggest blockbusters are playgrounds for creative minds, and the dreams of actors become the delightful whispers of “what ifs” that dance behind the silver screen. And who knows, perhaps there’s a secret vault somewhere in Warner Bros., housing a celluloid ghost of a brooding French Ken, forever frozen in a perfect, pink-infused limbo. The true beauty of cinema lies not just in the stories it tells, but also in the stories it almost tells, leaving us with a smile and a whispered, “Je t’aime, reject French Ken.”
Here Are The Musical Guests For ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ This Week: Star Power and Rising Stars Collide
The curtains of Studio 6B are set to rise for another exciting week on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” and the lineup boasts a dazzling blend of established icons and fresh voices making waves in the music industry. From indie pop darlings to genre-bending veterans, this week’s musical guests promise to deliver diverse sounds and electrifying performances, adding a sprinkle of musical magic to Fallon’s signature blend of laughs and lighthearted fun.
Kicking off the week on Monday, December 18th, is the enigmatic and captivating Billie Eilish. The Grammy Award-winning artist, whose sophomore album “Happier Than Ever” continues to dominate charts and redefine pop music, will grace the stage with her signature blend of dark-pop anthems and introspective ballads. Expect a performance that’s both emotionally charged and undeniably captivating, as Eilish takes viewers on a journey through her unique sonic universe.
Tuesday, December 19th, brings a double dose of indie-pop charm with Gracie Abrams and Tate McRae. Abrams, whose raw lyricism and confessional melodies have garnered critical acclaim, is sure to deliver a performance that’s both intimate and powerful. McRae, on the other hand, will bring her infectious energy and danceable pop anthems to the stage, offering a vibrant counterpoint to Abrams’ introspection. Their contrasting styles promise a dynamic showcase of the diverse talent emerging in the indie pop scene.
Wednesday, December 20th, welcomes the legendary Alanis Morissette. The Canadian singer-songwriter, whose raw vocals and unflinching lyrics defined an era, will revisit her iconic catalog, bringing hits like “You Oughta Know” and “Ironic” to life once again. This promises to be a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans who grew up on Morissette’s music, and a powerful display of enduring artistry for younger audiences discovering her work.
Thursday, December 21st, sees the multifaceted John Legend grace the stage. The Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and pianist will showcase his soulful vocals and genre-bending musicianship, offering a blend of R&B, soul, and gospel that’s guaranteed to move the audience. Expect a performance brimming with raw emotion and undeniable stage presence, as Legend celebrates the spirit of the holiday season with his signature style.
Finally, Friday, December 22nd, closes the week with a high-energy bang courtesy of Kelsea Ballerini. The country music darling, whose infectious pop-country anthems and empowering lyrics have made her a chart-topping force, will bring her vibrant stage presence and undeniable charisma to Studio 6B. Expect a performance that’s full of fun, country twang, and holiday cheer, as Ballerini sends viewers into the weekend with a smile.
Beyond the music, “The Tonight Show” promises a week of star-studded interviews and hilarious segments. Guests this week include actor Timothée Chalamet, comedian Tiffany Haddish, and the cast of the hit holiday film “Falling for Christmas.” With its blend of musical talent, comedic wit, and festive spirit, “The Tonight Show” is sure to offer a week of entertainment that’s perfect for warming up those winter nights. So tune in, grab some hot cocoa, and get ready for another unforgettable week on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”
From Bravolebrity to Backlash: Ramona Singer Navigates “RHONY Legacy” Premiere Post-Controversy
NEW YORK CITY, NY (December 14, 2023) – In a move that surprised many, Ramona Singer, the outspoken former star of “The Real Housewives of New York City,” graced the red carpet for the premiere of “Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: RHONY Legacy” on Tuesday night. This comes after she abruptly pulled out of BravoCon last month amid ongoing controversy surrounding an alleged racist comment.
Singer, 67, looked her signature glamorous self in a sparkling black dress as she posed for photos at GH on the Park in Manhattan. However, unlike her usual chatty demeanor, she opted to not answer any questions from reporters, keeping her lips sealed about the recent drama.
Despite the tension surrounding her appearance, Singer briefly joined her castmates inside the venue. Dorinda Medley, her longtime friend and fellow “RHONY Legacy” star, even captured a video of the two singing “Happy Birthday” together, which both shared on their Instagram stories. Singer also took to her own stories to hype up the new series, telling viewers, “It’s going to be the best season we ever did!”
This news comes after a turbulent few months for Singer. In November, a Vanity Fair article resurfaced an allegation that she used a racial slur towards a Black crew member during her final season of “RHONY.” While Singer vehemently denied the accusation, the backlash was swift and fierce. Fans called for her to be fired, and several brands that partnered with her distanced themselves.
Amid the mounting pressure, Singer announced her decision to skip BravoCon, the annual Bravo fan convention. In a statement, she cited “unforeseen circumstances” and promised to address the allegations at a later date. Many interpreted this as an attempt to avoid facing the heat during the highly publicized event.
Now, with her surprise appearance at the “RHONY Legacy” premiere, questions swirl around her next move. Is this a sign that she intends to weather the storm and remain a Bravo fixture? Or was this a calculated move to control the narrative and maintain her status in the reality TV world?
One thing is for certain: Ramona Singer is no stranger to controversy. Throughout her thirteen seasons on “RHONY,” she was known for her fiery personality, her penchant for making insensitive remarks, and her ability to bounce back from any scandal. However, the current situation appears to be her most serious challenge yet.
The allegations against her are not only damaging to her reputation but also raise important questions about race and discrimination within the reality TV industry. Whether she can regain the trust of viewers and brands remains to be seen.
“The future of Ramona Singer in the Bravo universe is uncertain,” says reality TV critic Sarah Miller. “This controversy has undoubtedly tarnished her brand, but it’s also ignited a crucial conversation about representation and accountability. It will be interesting to see how she chooses to navigate the situation going forward.”
Ultimately, only time will tell whether Ramona Singer can emerge from this current controversy unscathed. But one thing is clear: her return to the spotlight, albeit a brief one, is sure to keep the “Real Housewives” world buzzing for months to come.