Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episodes 205 & 206 of ‘Single Drunk Female’. To revisit the previous two episodes, click here.
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When we are going through a difficult time in our lives, or we’re trying to put the pieces of our lives back together because of that difficult time… all we know in that moment, is our world. Our feelings, our thoughts, and our struggles, and rightfully so. Because those dark days are on our minds and all we want to do is be done with them and leave them behind, and well… that can cause us… to be blissfully unaware of other situations going on around us. Because while our struggles are important, there are others going through it as well, and who knows… perhaps we can find a little sliver of joy or healing if we hear them and help them.
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Which is why this week’s double feature of Single Drunk Female on Freeform is of note. For ‘Defining Relationships’ and ‘Keeping it Professional’ explored that and so much more, courtesy of some fascinating and powerful storylines. One of which involved Brit. Because we came to learn during this week’s adventures that she has been struggling badly with the divorce and the course of her life post-divorce. To the point where she was looking for something, anything to hang onto, and that motivated her to shoplift to try and bring home an item that would evoke a happy memory while doing something thrilling and self-destructive and well… this was a fine example of how we miss the suffering of others during dark times and how indeed we can find something worthwhile from it. Since Sam hadn’t a clue she was hurting this badly, but discovered a little slice of fulfillment by stepping in and giving Brit one good night in a sea of dark ones. 

But since this show loves to explore all of life’s ups and downs, there was an opportunity here to also look at how the isolation we create in dark times, can actually be detrimental. Which was explored by way of James and Carol, who… pushed themselves deeper into isolation over the course of these stories. James for instance, kept drinking, kept pushing others away and just let the day take him wherever. Which left him alone and broken, and Carol, well she continued to use toxicity to try and process her emotions and well… that led to disaster. Because she disrespected Bob in an effort to maintain that status quo and that was enough for Bob. He felt someone needed to teach her a lesson and moved out. All of which neatly hammered home, that when we isolate and stew and only worry about our problems, we can be a touch self-destructive since that darkness and frustration consumes us.

In fact, even as we recover and heal, we can still make similar mistakes, as evidenced by Sam’s storyline in this tale. Because despite her holding to sobriety and being a rock for her friend in a time of need, she still got into her head a plenty. To the point where she blew a big interview with Bob the Drag Queen at a film festival she was assigned to, because she let her poor perception of herself, related to her self-worth of course… torpedo that moment… and that… put her in a tough place mentally. An isolated one really. If anything, all of this made it seem as though perhaps this episode block was just going to slide into darkness and perhaps show us a moment where Sam might slip and where others would continue to slide. But this is a series that always teaches and oft looks at how we find our way out of the darkness, and that happened here as well.
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For James came to learn, he needs a support network, and he needs something to believe in, and started to find sobriety again through faith and his mother and Mindy. And Carol came to learn… that she could no longer hide from her emotions and her trauma and had to open up if she ever wanted people in her life, because she was shoving them away because she was already scared of losing them. And she did that by joining a support group, and by finally speaking about her pain and as for her daughter… she came to realize she has to communicate better with others and make a point to look objectively at her life and what she is doing right. So, she doesn’t slide into her somewhat self-destructive mode now and again and those were fine lessons to find here, and applied to a great of lessons we all need to learn or need a refresher upon.

But what truly made this set of episodes so incredible, is that… the back-and-forth nature of these stories, and raw chaos and lows on display here… just reflected everyday life. Because it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s tough, and we go through it hard, even when we’re doing wonderful things and making progress and this show deserves a round of applause for showing us such a dynamic and realistic set of stories and for reminding us to be prepared for dark days. Because that’s what shows and stories about recovery and our struggles should do, for we need that honesty, not just excessive positivity and well, now that we’ve reached the end of two powerful tales, we are absolutely left eager for more. Simply because we have to know… what is going to come out of the revelations that played out here, for they were huge in nature and will have long-lasting impact upon these characters and their powerful story. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 307 of ‘Ted Lasso’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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There was a time, when sports stories all followed certain formulas to tell their tales, and never once deviated from them. Simply because those formulas… the kind that feature an underdog eager to have their day in the sun, or a wash-out eager to finish what they started, or someone at the end of their career that’s hungry to have it all… are designed to deeply inspire us. Since an underdog story reminds us to always go for it no matter the odds, and to indeed finish what we start or that it is not too late to chase our dreams, and well… how could a story possibly deviate from such tried-and-true concepts that do indeed leave people feeling better about their day? Well as it turns out… there are several reasons as to why. Such as the fact… that those concepts don’t reach everyone, and some folks don’t relate to sports stories at all since it isn’t their bag in the slightest. Which is why, the genre is finally evolving, and the show that is leading the way in making sports stories accessible to the masses and is finding new ways to inspire them, remains Ted Lasso on Apple TV+.
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For this series has made it clear that the best way to captivate an audience and ignite inspiration within them, is to create a realistic world revolving around the struggles we face with sports surrounding that. Wherein people handle big things in very real ways and never was that more evident than during this week’s episode. For ‘The Strings That Bind Us’ was a story that took its time to look at so many uniquely relatable concepts. Such as the importance of boundaries in love, and the need to be honest with the one that has captivated our heart. So that our relationship is healthy and built on the right foundation, and that is something that people want to be inspired about, since we struggle with such matters. A feat the story accomplished by having Keeley set those very boundaries with Jack, who was love bombing and through Nate who finally was honest with Jade about his feelings and their connection and received something positive in return in doing so.

All of which made it clear the importance of those elements in love and likely inspired someone in need, and the story didn’t end there with inspiration. Since it also took the time to address, how tough it is for BIPOC individuals in the world right now. Because everywhere we turn, someone in power or in influence is spouting racist nonsense and they’re empowering other morons that share their closed world view to cause harm and how does a BIPOC individual reconcile that? Well, that was answered by Sam in this tale, who took the time to push back against a government official that was pushing back on immigration in the U.K., and he paid the price for speaking the truth about hate, since his wondrous restaurant was vandalized in the name of closed-minded bullshit. But the arrival of his father, and the support of his teammates made it clear that the good in this world outweighs the bad and often trumps it, and that looking to the light and the embracing the good can help in the interim while the bigger fight continues. Which was a powerful and inspirational message to send out in these troubling times, and that is definitely a real-world scenario that so many can sadly, relate to. 

Yet, there were still more inspiring and realistic life lessons to be found in this tale, and that was handled by the team. For the time had come for Ted to instill his version of Total Football at Richmond and well… that didn’t go well. Because the team was not conditioned for it, not ready for it and the concepts did not stick. Which are elements that outright go against what sports stories stand for. Since unity and execution and growth are often what we see in sequences such as this. But instead, it was just failure and struggle, and some funny shenanigans along the way. Since Coach Kent did think of a twisted way to ensure unity and synergy, by tying the men together at the phallus with string. Which also went about as well as one might expect, since one wrong tug sent both teammates to the ground. But despite everyone’s best and twisted efforts to make this work, it just didn’t and that showed on the field when they took on Arsenal.  
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Because the failures rolled along, and the team was scattered to the winds, and it took… them hitting their lowest, for Jamie Tartt to figure out what really needed to happen on the pitch for this team to be successful. And just like that, the whole thing came together, and well… while they didn’t get the win, the message inherent was clear. In that, there is no quick rush to the finish line in sports, or in life. We have to stumble, we have to fall, and we have to embrace the chaos before everything comes together, and we will not see the results right away nor will success come in the form of a championship or a personal award. We’ll just see it, feel it, know it and be comfortable with the fact that we achieved wonders and that we have what we want, and that’s what went down here and that… is the most inspiring lesson of all. Since this sequence informed us, to stay the course, trust the process and keep putting in the work and we will indeed achieve what we want, and that… is a damn fine message to find in a sports story… one that does things differently because it stumbled upon something.

In that, the core reason why people go to watch sports stories in the theaters or on a streamer, is to find inspiration to solve the very problems they’re facing in life. For sports offers a purity of sorts, a black and white understanding of our problems and the world. But the creative brain trust here, asked a harder question. Such as… what if… the show looked at the world and the concerns of others through the colorful chaos that actually happens in the world and make it accessible to all… and this is the end result. A story that captivates, that is beloved and truly does inspire us on a fundamental level by indeed squaring up against stuff we can all relate to in some form or fashion and seeing that on display in such a pure manner here, was brilliant to say the least and made for a powerful story. One that once again reminded us why this show is the champion of sports shows and of course, leaves us eager for more. Because we want to be inspired by these characters and their journeys and we of course… want to see them learn and grow as we hope to, because seeing people progress… is about as inspiring as it gets. Until next time.      

There are few characters in this world, as iconic as Harriet the Spy. For this charming and inspiring character has captivated the imagination of children everywhere, and she is so iconic and so beloved that she been a staple in the pop-culture landscape for nearly sixty years now courtesy of a bevy of creative adaptations of her original story. Such as the 1996 film that many still revisit to this day and the various television shows that followed. 
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But one of the most faithful adaptations of her story, is the Apple TV+ animated series that debuted on the network not that long ago, and it was so well received and respected that a second season was granted, one that fans of this franchise have been patiently waiting for and thankfully, don’t have to wait much longer to enjoy. For May 5 will see season two arrive on the digital airwaves and to properly celebrate the return of this dynamic series, Apple TV+ was kind enough to release a trailer for year two, and since you are here because you are eagerly awaiting more adventures with Harriet, here is that trailer, and some details on season two for you to enjoy… courtesy of Apple TV+.  

‘Apple TV+ today released the trailer for season two of “Harriet the Spy,” based on the iconic children’s novel chronicling the coming-of-age adventures of the irrepressible Harriet M. Welsch, premiering on May 5, 2023. Produced by The Jim Henson Company, the animated series stars Golden Globe nominee Beanie Feldstein ("Lady Bird," “Booksmart”) as Harriet, a fiercely independent and adventurous 11-year-old girl, alongside Emmy Award winner Jane Lynch (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel") as Ole Golly, Harriet’s larger-than-life, no-nonsense nanny. 

“Harriet the Spy” follows the outspoken and perpetually curious 11-year-old Harriet M. Welsch. More than anything, Harriet wants to be a writer, and in order to be a good writer, she’ll need to know everything. And to know everything means she’ll need to spy … on everyone! This season, follow Harriet as she navigates letting go, growing up, and celebrating the gift of today. 

Joining Feldstein and Lynch, the series features Kimberly Brooks ("Baby Shark's Big Show") and Charlie Schlatter ("Big Nate," “For All Mankind”) as Janie and Sport, Harriet’s best friends, Lacey Chabert ("Mean Girls") as Marion Hawthorne, the ringleader of a group of popular girls at Harriet’s school, and additional voice cast Crispin Freeman ("Young Justice"), Grey Griffin ("The Loud House"), and Bumper Robinson ("The Owl House"). Guest stars this season include Jaeden Martell (“It”), Emmy Award winner Brad Garrett (“High Desert,” “Bupkis”), Emmy Award nominee Michelle Trachtenberg (“Gossip Girl”) and many more. 

Based on the book by Louise Fitzhugh, the Apple Original series is produced by The Jim Henson Company, and written and executive produced by Will McRobb (“The Adventures of Pete & Pete”) with Sidney Clifton (“Black Panther” animated series, “Me, Eloise”) as producer. Lisa Henson and Halle Stanford executive produce on behalf of The Jim Henson Company with John W. Hyde, Nancy Steingard and Wendy Moss-Klein also serving as executive producers, and Terissa Kelton as co-executive producer. Chris Prynoski, Shannon Prynoski and Ben Kalina executive produce for Titmouse Animation Studios.
 
The award-winning slate of original series and films for kids and families on Apple TV+ includes this year’s Academy Award and BAFTA Award-winning animated short film “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse”; star-studded animated adventure film “Luck” from Apple Original Films and Skydance Animation; and, BAFTA Award-winning and Academy Award-nominated animated film “Wolfwalkers.”
 
“Harriet the Spy” is a part of all-ages offerings now streaming globally on Apple TV+, including the BAFTA Award and Humanitas Prize-winning “El Deafo,” BAFTA Award-winning “Lovely Little Farm,” “Duck & Goose,” GLAAD Media Award nominated “Pinecone & Pony,” Emmy Award-winning “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock” from The Jim Henson Company, Peabody and Emmy Award-winning series “Stillwater,” “Helpsters” from Sesame Workshop, “Wolfboy and the Everything Factory” from Joseph Gordon-Levitt, HITRECORD and Bento Box Entertainment, “Sago Mini Friends,” Emmy Award-nominated “Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show” from Jack McBrayer and Angela C. Santomero, “Eva the Owlet,” Emmy Award nominee “Snoopy in Space,” “The Snoopy Show” and “Get Rolling with Otis.” Live-action offerings include Bonnie Hunt’s DGA and WGA Award nominated “Amber Brown,” DGA Award winner "Best Foot Forward," “Surfside Girls,” WGA Award winner “Life By Ella,” Emmy Award-winning “Ghostwriter” from Sesame Workshop, and “Puppy Place.” 
 
Also included are specials from Peanuts and WildBrain including Emmy Award nominee “It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown,” “Lucy’s School,” Humanitas and Emmy Award nominee “To Mom (and Dad), With Love,” Emmy Award-winning “Who Are You, Charlie Brown?” and “For Auld Lang Syne,” and “Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth,” the Emmy Award-winning television event based on the New York Times best-selling book and TIME Best Book of the Year by Oliver Jeffers.
 
Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries, and series have earned 348 wins and 1,421 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”
 
Apple TV+ is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL, and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at tv.apple.com, for $6.99 per month with a seven-day free trial. For a limited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, or iPod touch can enjoy three months of Apple TV+ for free. For more information, visit apple.com/tvpr and see the full list of supported devices.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Twenty of ‘Lopez vs Lopez’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say, that the NBC series, Lopez vs Lopez, is one of the most important television shows on the airwaves right now. Simply because… this series is more than a hilarious comedy about family life in modern America… it really is one of the only shows on television that is taking the time to properly showcase Latino/Latinx culture. For this show has really dug deep into the traditions that Latino families take part in, and shown the world their majesty and their wonder, and it has dealt with powerful cultural conflicts present within the Latino/Latinx community and thankfully, this show is showing no signs of letting up when it comes to such examinations. As evidenced by this week’s wonderful episode.
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For ‘Lopez vs Corte Caliente’ took the time to explore a couple of unique aspect of Latino culture. Such as what kind of entertainment is wildly popular with the culture and the difficulties that come with honoring the legacy of the culture and it explored the first element, through quite the interesting conflict between Rosie and George. For Rosie came to realize she still had her original wedding ring and since the couple was now divorced, she wanted to sell it and move on in life. But George, wanted his cut of the ring since it seemed only fair, and despite both of them getting the suggestion from Mayan to just sell it and split the proceeds, they each wanted a full payout and that led them… to Corte Caliente. A spicy television show where Judge Justicia would decide who would get the ring and its riches. 

Which led… to a hilarious sequence. Wherein George and Rosie pled their case to Judge Justicia, with minimal luck. For she was a no-nonsense judge that put them in their place about a lot of things. Such as how they still cared for one another despite their vitriol and how… they were still married due to oversight on the paperwork. Which gave this duo pause. Since it finally put a lot in perspective about their relationship and led to a beautiful moment of growth for both of them, and the decision to split the very small profits of the fake cubic zirconia in that ring. But that growth and hilarity aside, this really was a great opportunity to explore how sensational entertainment is part of the Latino experience. Be it through a Telenovela (as this writer’s grandmothers and mother adored) or through intense shows like Corte Calinte that bring the chisme, there’s just a real draw to that kind of entertainment and rightfully so. It’s bombastic and fun, and it was great to see this on display in this show. 

As for the exploration regarding the difficulties that come with honoring legacy, that was handled by Mayan and Chance. For Rosie pointed out what an important tradition Folklórico was in the family, which is an understanding and practice of traditional Latino/Latinx dances, often performed in Mexico. Which Mayan took part in when she was young and well… she did indeed try to get Chance to take part in that education… with awful results. Because Chance hated the outfits, and he could not master the dances. And eventually, it was revealed that Mayan stunk at them too and was also pushed into doing it. Which made it clear that it isn’t easy to honor legacies in family life, especially when there is little interest in doing so, and if by chance one really does want to that to happen… then one has to find someone that can honor it all the way the family desires, since Quinten could do it… or one has to figure out a different way to honor the past in a manner that pleases all. 

If anything, this was just… an incredible episode when all is said and done. Because it really did showcase Latino/Latinx culture in a dynamic and informative light. Not to mention, the Folklórico segment was a deep cut to say the least. Since it has been years since that word even crossed the mind of this writer. But it was amazing to see none the less, and it was equally as amazing to see some carefully crafted and exciting chisma through that epic court segment. One that featured Marilyn Milian as Judge Justicia, whom we normally know as Judge Marilyn Milian on The People’s Court, making for a delightful cameo, and well… now that we’ve reached the end of this educational delight, the time has come to wait for next week’s story. One that will undoubtedly be brilliant since this series always finds a way to bring a special story to the table. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Fourteen of ‘Night Court’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is definitely safe to say that people have a strange relationship with the notion of the crush. Because on the one hand, so many of us secretly hope that there is someone out there, thinking about us constantly in that romantic manner… and maybe, just maybe… they’ll confess that crush and we’ll enjoy the love of a lifetime. Provided of course, certain criteria come into play. Such as say… having the right person harbor that crush and it also needs to happen at just the right time. So, we’re ready to see where the magic can take us. Which is… quite the fascinating duality to work with when it comes to our seeming never ending quest for the wonder of love. But it is how it goes and sometimes… sticking to those rules isn’t exactly a bad thing. After all, if you’re in a deeply committed relationship when a crush arrives, that’s problematic.

Because the last thing one wants to do in that situation… is badly hurt the person declaring their love, and deal with the awkwardness that accompanies that. So yes, having a crush come into play is indeed a big issue, one that needs to be dealt with properly. But what is the right way to handle such matters? Well, it just so happens that this week’s episode of Night Court on NBC, explored the answer to that question. A feat that ‘When Abby Met Gabby’ accomplished by putting Abby in that very situation. Because now that she was aware of how Neil felt about her, and how big his crush was, things were getting weird at work. In fact, at times, it was almost impossible to get stuff done in the courtroom. Which meant, Abby needed to address this, especially since she was deeply committed to Rand, and that brought Olivia into the fold.

For she too wanted the old dynamic back and knew she could help since she was no-nonsense. But Abby wasn’t sure about applying her ice-cold approach to this and thought there might be a better way, and she was right. Since an old flame from Neil’s high school days, named Gabby, was finalizing her divorce at the court and well… the chemistry there and the fact that Gabby was very much like Abby… prompted this duo to try and get these two together. Which didn’t go well at first, until Abby stepped in and more or less made it clear in a gentle way, that Neil shouldn’t hold out for the love of one person when he might find happiness in the arms of another. Especially when that love won’t be reciprocated, and that motivated him to give Gabby a shot and in turn taught us… that honesty and a good chat in that vein is the best way to handle this little surprise. So that hearts aren’t shattered and so feelings are funneled into the right direction. 

However, since this series knows how to perfectly balance the sentimental with the funny stuff, Dan and Gurgs’ storyline is the one that leaned into the hilarity. Courtesy of a moment of shame for Gurgs. Because Dan was hit with a mixed drink by a drunken mother in the court, and Gurgs felt she failed Dan and his undoubtedly expensive suit. So, she deemed it best to become his personal protector. To prove her worth and settle this debt and that led to some amazing moments. The kind that saw Gurgs try to get Dan to wear an ankle monitor to properly keep watch over him, and freak people out in the Restroom by trying to secure a safe space for Dan. Which prompted him to try and force the debt into being paid through a staged drink toss, and Dan even tried to hire private security to get Gurgs to back off since this was so hilariously stifling. But when Neil tried to offer up a run-by-hugging of Dan, because of how well his date went with Gabby, and he simply wanted to share the love… Gurgs proved her worth, by intercepting that snuggle.

In the end, this was just… a wonderful episode. A day in the life of Night Court if you will. Since we once again saw the characters and their growth and machinations be the focus of the story, and that’s worked well since day one and it was wonderful to experience again here. As was the interesting tidbit near the end of the story where Abby worried about her and Rand’s future as a couple because of how much they relied on same ol’, same ol’ to keep the spark alive, which brought Gabby’s marriage to an end. And what makes that interesting, is that this series doesn’t waste a singular moment. So, this has significance, and it will be interesting to see what comes of such musings, and what wonderful moments and shenanigans await us as we inch toward the end of season one of this dynamic and delightful new-boot of a television classic. Until next time.     

It is definitely safe to say that the STARZ series, Run the World, was a true breath of fresh air when it hit the airwaves in 2021. Simply because… this is an original story that television remains in dire need of. Since it focuses on life in the big city through the eyes of dynamic women that want nothing more than to achieve their goals. Not to mention, it remains a model on representation in television, and it doesn’t hurt that season one was funny through and through, and those reasons, and the response from its newfound fan base, made renewing the series for a second season, a no brainer.
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But alas, we’ve been waiting for a little while now to enjoy more of this magnificent series. But thankfully, good things are indeed coming to those who wait. Since season two of Run the World arrives on STARZ in late May and to begin to properly build anticipation for year two… STARZ was kind enough to provide the fans with some wondrous gifts. For earlier today, STARZ released some key art, a trailer, and some updated details on season two, and since you’re here to get an idea of what to expect from another season from this brilliant show, let’s not waste any more time, and provide you with those details… and that trailer as we begin the countdown to season two of Run the World.

‘STARZ released today the key art and trailer for the critically acclaimed series “Run the World” set to premiere on Friday, May 26. Vicariously live through Whitney (Amber Stevens West), Renee (Bresha Webb) and Sondi (Corbin Reid) as they fashionably navigate through the ups and downs of life, love and careers in the pursuit to have it all. They’re moving on, and moving up. The second season of the half-hour comedy series will premiere at midnight (ET) on the STARZ app, all STARZ streaming and on-demand platforms. On linear, it will debut on STARZ at 9:30PM ET/PT in the U.S. and Canada.

“Run the World” chronicles the euphoric highs and heartbreaking lows that Whitney, Renee and Sondi must endure in their pursuit of world domination. Whitney must follow the road of self-discovery in order to thrive in her life with or without Ola, while Renee and Sondi must decide what they truly want out of life – both in love and their careers. Whether they reunite with a past love, taste the life of a millionaire, or see their career take off in a radical new direction, these powerful Black women, fortified by their impenetrable friendship, won’t let anything get in their way.
 
Amber Stevens West (“The Carmichael Show”), Bresha Webb (“Marlon”) and Corbin Reid (“Valor”) return to their roles as “Whitney,” “Renee” and “Sondi,” three best friends living and thriving in Harlem. Stephen Bishop (Moneyball) and Tosin Morohunfola (“Black Lightning”) return in series regular roles. Erika Alexander (“Living Single”) and Nick Sagar (“Queen of the South”) will also be returning as recurring guest stars and Jay Walker (“Grey’s Anatomy”) and Tonya Pinkins (Enchanted) will return as guest stars.
 
STARZ previously announced that Tika Sumpter (Sonic the Hedgehog 2, “Mixed-ish”), Comedian CP (“Detroiters,” “Love Life”) and Isha Blaaker (A Madea’s Homecoming, “The Flight Attendant”) will be joining the second season in recurring roles, while Cree Summer (“Better Things,” “Queen Sugar”) and Ashley Blaine Featherson-Jenkins (“Dear White People,” Bad Hair) will guest star.
 
Rachelle Williams-BenAry (“Love Life,” “Mixed-ish,” “Survivor’s Remorse”) joins season two as showrunner and executive producer. Yvette Lee Bowser and Leigh Davenport serve as executive producers. “Run the World” is produced by Lionsgate for STARZ.
 
“Run the World” Online
Twitter: @RunTheWorldTV | @STARZ
Instagram: @RunTheWorldSTARZ | @STARZ
Facebook: @RunTheWorldSTARZ
Join the conversation with #RunTheWorld and #STARZ
 
About STARZ
STARZ (www.starz.com), a Lionsgate company, is a leading global media streaming platform committed to delivering premium content that amplifies narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences. STARZ is home to the highly rated and first-of-its-kind STARZ app that offers the ability to stream or download STARZ premium content, as well as the flagship domestic STARZ® service, including STARZ ENCORE, 17 premium pay TV channels, and the associated on-demand and online services. In 2018, STARZ launched its international premium streaming platform STARZPLAY, now LIONSGATE+, to provide subscribers access to bold, curated storytelling. LIONSGATE+, coupled with the STARZPLAY ARABIA joint venture in MENA and Lionsgate Play in South and Southeast Asia, has a footprint that extends across the globe. STARZ and LIONSGATE+ are available across digital OTT platforms and multichannel video distributors, including cable operators, satellite television providers, and telecommunications companies around the world. In February 2021, STARZ launched #TakeTheLead, a multi-faceted and innovative inclusion initiative expanding its existing efforts to improve representation on screen, behind the camera and throughout the company.
 
About Lionsgate
Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF.A, LGF.B) encompasses world-class motion picture and television studio operations aligned with the STARZ premium global subscription platform to bring a unique and varied portfolio of entertainment to consumers around the world.  The Company’s film, television, subscription and location-based entertainment businesses are backed by a 17,000-title library and a valuable collection of iconic film and television franchises. A digital age company driven by its entrepreneurial culture and commitment to innovation, the Lionsgate brand is synonymous with bold, original, relatable entertainment for audiences worldwide.’

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Premiere of ‘The Madame Blanc Mysteries’. To revisit the Season One Finale, click here.
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One thing that fans of mysteries can agree upon, is that season one of the Acorn TV series, The Madame Blanc Mysteries, was quite the delightful treat. Simply because it was a wondrous cozy mystery from beginning to end. One filled to the brim with magnificent characters that we instantly fell in love with, and cases that were never outlandish or twisted, they felt real-world in many ways and allowed for us to just kick back and enjoy the wonder of Jean’s clever mind and find grand satisfaction in her solving the case that brought her to the tiny little berg of Saint Victorie in the first place. And we so enjoyed what season one had to offer that we anxiously awaited season two and were gifted with it not that long ago.
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Which means… it is time to begin our journey through season two and all of its majesty, and well, the season two premiere of this show wasted little time in reminding us why we tune in. That is, after it lulled us into a false sense of security. For when we caught up with Jean and Dom and all the wonderful people in this town, it was the Holiday season, and everyone was preparing to exchange gifts and sing carols and just enjoy the wonder of the season. But alas, an incident at Caron’s home… took the time to remind us that the ugliness of the world doesn’t just go away when the season arrives. For cruelty cares not about the mistletoe or egg nog, it will do what it must and that gave Jean quite the case to handle.

For Caron’s wife was murdered out of the blue, and well… since it was a well-known fact that he and his wife were divorcing, and that the murder weapon came from their own kitchen… he became the chief suspect. Which prompted him to ask for Jean’s help in clearing his name and well, at first that seemed quite impossible. Because Jean had little to go on and the hot shot inspector that came in to handle this case, really believed that she was going to put Caron behind bars. But thanks to Jean’s keen eye and ability to connect dots, it became clear that Caron’s late wife had come to discover some shady dealings at the local art gallery, the kind that would have exposed some hideous charges, and well… Jean was happy to pick up that mantle and bring that monster to justice. To give the fallen peace and to give Caron the best gifts of all this season, his freedom and exoneration. 

Which really did make for a powerful storyline. One that truly reminded us that the world keeps turning during the season, good or bad, and it was lovely to see Jean work her magic and prove Caron’s innocence. Making that storyline, an uplifting holiday plot, albeit a slightly bleak one. Which is likely why the episode featured something a touch more heartfelt. For Dom’s Uncle, Patrick, stopped by with his grandson, Archie. Who came to learn that Patrick had sticky fingers and loved to steal from kind people when the opportunity arose. Which prompted a little lesson in what the spirit of the season means and why this is the wrong time to do bad things and well… Patrick listened and returned what he stole and that made, for a very holly jolly Christmas in Saint Victoire, and a wonderful way to kick off a new season of storytelling from this show.

Simply because, happy endings were everywhere to be found in this tale since a murderer and money launderer was brought to justice and of course… everyone was made whole during these tough few days in the town and well, seeing Jean do her thing again and seeing this town trust her to make magic happen, was about as satisfying as it gets. Plus, there was growth to be found here since Jean clearly has settled into her new home and she’s beginning to open up to Dom and that’s the stuff you want from a second season. New horizons and growth and new challenges for the story and the characters and well, since clearly that’s the agenda for season two, that will make navigating it an utter joy, and we cannot wait to see what new cases and heartwarming moments await us as we continue our journey through season two of this wondrous series. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the Season Two Premiere of ‘Dalgliesh’. To revisit the Season One Finale, click here.

​It is definitely safe to say that season one of the Acorn TV crime drama, Dalgliesh, was quite refreshing in nature. In large part, because of its setting. Because traveling back to the 1970s to explore the world of crime that Inspector Adam Dalgliesh deals with on a regular basis absolutely livened up the genre, since it took us back to a time where cameras could not enhance an image to catch a killer, and where DNA evidence was not a thing. This was when investigators had to do incredible, iron-clad work with their cases. To prove that a crime was committed by their suspect and that added a real level of humanity and intensity to these stories that we don’t often receive in crime dramas, and thankfully… the time has come for us to enjoy more of this dynamic series.
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For season two of this saga made its debut on Acorn TV yesterday with quite the incredible tale. One that explored the vulnerable nature of our institutions when matters of the heart are involved. A feat that ‘Death of an Expert Witness’ accomplished, by having Adam and Miskin head out to the community of East Anglia. A place where one of the top forensic labs in the country was housed and sadly… this important institution was rattled by murder. For a senior forensic biologist was found murdered by the murder weapon of another case one fine day and well… that forced Adam and Miskin to try and understand who would cross that line and rattle an institution in this manner, and that brought forth a case filled with fascinating commentary on the theme at hand and how small towns… blur lines. 

Simply because… there was no separation between state and civilian in this place. After all, the late biologist was feuding with his cousin over family fortunes, and they both worked at the lab. Plus, the victim was having a wild affair with the superintendent’s sister, and there were feuds between he and another forensic expert. Making this case nothing less than a deadly soap opera really. One that truly pointed out how little matters from a decorum standpoint in small towns since everyone is inside everyone else’s business and that made solving this case damn near impossible. Because one thread would lead to more drama and little else, and that pushed Adam and Miskin to confront the drama to get answers, especially when another body turned up.

But cutting through the nonsense and the drama was the right call, for that got us to the core theme as we came to learn that it wasn’t family feuds or sour intentions that led to this unfortunate death. It was as it oft is in this world, matters of the heart. For the two experts were embroiled in a love triangle with that very sister, and in order to win favor, the deceased tried to blackmail his competition and that… led to his end. Since that would have sent children packing to a divorcee mother, and deeply wounded said competition, and that was why he snapped, and well… that made it clear that there is no institution that can stand tall when its internal workings are mired in love affairs and jealousy and all the drama that makes life pure chaos. But order was restored, and lessons were learned, courtesy of the hard work put on display here and the arrest made.

If anything, this was just… a magnificent premiere when all is said and done. Simply because it perfectly reintroduced us to this world after a lengthy hiatus for the show. In fact, the story even took the time to remind us of Adam’s wondrous work with words via his poetry before plunging us back into an intense case filled with fear and insecurity and all the emotions that tough times bring our way. Which was how we were reminded of the humanity of this series and the gravity of murder, and what it means to have a decent man handling such cases in a decent manner and well, it is just great to be back in Adam’s world. Where justice prevails the right way and where the importance of the fallen is never forgotten and it will be interesting to see what we learn from this new year of cases as season two continues along. Until next time.

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Seven and the Season One Finale of ‘The Consultant’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Over the course of the past six episodes, the Prime Video series, The Consultant, has put on a masterclass examination regarding the nature of evil and what drives it in this world and how easily it can consume a person. A feat it has accomplished, by allowing for us to get to get to know the enigma that is one Regus Patoff and learn of his love of chaos and how he desperately enjoys inspiring darkness in others. Which in turn has brought forth our understanding of how evil grabs hold whilst chilling us to the bone. Since the story has also heavily implied that Regus is nothing more than a monster of sorts, one that knows how to yield a special power to influence people into the darkness.
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But while it has been fascinating to learn what evil lurks in the heart of humanity, we have all been quite curious as to where this exploration is going. For even the seventh episode in this saga, ‘Elephant’, leaned hard into the ease of which darkness can take over. A feat that story accomplished by having Regus push Elaine like never before. All by asking her to really think of an incredible way to publicize the game, and a glib remark on her part, about setting a giant elephant free in the city, put her in a bind. Because Regus loved that idea and demanded she do whatever she needed to in order to make that stunt take place and well… that meant fully embracing the darkness.

Because to make this happen, she would need unsavory people, and ‘off the books’ payments, and well… she accomplished that, and of course indulging in such darkness without giving it much thought, led to disaster. Because had to recruit her ex to make this happen and he of course wanted the world and Patoff’s desire to not pay him, put her in a tough place. Not to mention, the elephant died, putting that reality upon her soul. In fact, ‘Hammer’ was a story that brought forth the consequences of letting evil thrive. Because not only did Elaine have to reconcile the fact, she killed an innocent animal to appease the boss… but Craig came to learn his beloved was working for Patoff and well… that led to a powerhouse showdown. 

One that saw Elaine rescue Patti at last while Craig taught Patoff quite the lesson. One where he made sure to inflict pain on a man that had inflicted so much pain on others and that ended… with a severed toe and big changes to everyone’s lives. Since Patti realized she and Craig weren’t compatible and Elaine managed to land the top job at CompWare as a gift for crossing the line, and evil persisted. Since despite losing a golden toe that Craig planned to enjoy retirement from, since he scooped it up, Regus found another job. Which really did make it seem as though this ending was a misnomer of sorts… one designed to wow instead of bringing this all together. But in reality, everything that happened in this finale… did do that in a supremely subtle manner.
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For in essence, this was a story that teaches us, the right way to combat evil. Which isn’t just beating the hell out of it and into submission. It’s more about learning the warning signs and understanding how it gets under our skin and into our minds and how we need to be vigilant regarding that. Because to not question what is asked of us, to not resist decisions made in the name of money or standing, informs evil that it has hold of us and can do as it pleases. But when we fight back by saying no, by risking standing to keep it at bay, that is how we weaken it and that is how we destroy it and that made this, a fascinating season of storytelling. 

One that truly took us on a wild ride through both the philosophical and the supernatural, since clearly… Regus was something otherworldly and well… this is a season that will leave us with plenty to think upon when all is said and done. Simply because it really did offer up a quality analysis on the nature of evil and what makes it tick and what helps it to persist in our world and did so in a manner that was compelling and fascinating and truly entertaining and well, it will be interesting to see if Prime Video grants us more adventures with Regus and his special brand of evil… or if this unique story is where we part ways, but either way, at least we were able to enjoy a complete and original story. One that truly offered up a thoughtful and twisted adventure, with dynamic characters, that learned some valuable lessons from the strangest consultant to ever grace the business world.  

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 510 of ‘Magnum P.I.’ To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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When we last settled in to enjoy the wondrous new season of the NBC series, Magnum P.I., we were all left in quite the worrisome place. After all, the dark men that were hunting Thomas Magnum and the remainder of his crew from that fateful mission… were making their moves to bring down the team at last, and their furious push to bring that to fruition, led to the end of Detective Childs, and the potential end for T.C. as well. Since the closing moments of that tale saw him taking fire from one of Swayzak’s lackeys. Leaving all of us to wonder if T.C. was going to be okay and exactly what Thomas would do when he learned of this attack and thankfully, the Spring Finale of this series, wasted little time in answering those questions.  
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For ‘Charlie Foxtrot’ quickly informed us that T.C. was going to be okay. Thanks to Kenny’s quick thinking, since he put down the assailant with a quick shotgun blast, and that got T.C. into surgery. Where he recovered and faced a slow road back. One that might not feature the use of his legs because of the damage done to his body. Which time will tell of course if that will be the case, but he survived and that was a relief, as was what happened while T.C. was being rushed to the hospital. For that is when the rest of the dark ops unit descended upon Robin’s Nest, just as Rick called Higgins to let her know what was happening with T.C., and that he was on his way to the hospital, and had it not been for Juliet and Thomas’ extensive training, they might not have survived the onslaught. One that put Swayzak in handcuffs and led to more work for this dynamic duo.  

Simply because, Rick never made it to the hospital to check on T.C., which was of concern since he was just leaving the bar when he made that call, and well… that led to a harrowing storyline for Rick. One where we learned, he was captured, and he had to get creative to escape his captors and keep that creativity going to continue to evade them in the middle of the night and the early morning hours, and sadly his efforts were all for naught. For eventually he was captured again. And the search for him yielded minimal results. Which meant, Thomas and Juliet had to figure out who was behind this and why, and quickly. So, they could ascertain if there was any possibility that Rick might be alive and if the odds were in his favor, find Rick and in doing so… bring this monster to justice. For Magnum had a feeling that the true villain here was with Rick and his theory, and Higgins’ fine work, finally yielded them some possibilities as to who was behind this and how that might help them find Rick.

In that, it appeared that Nadine Amherst, who originally appeared to have died in this mess, was actually alive and well and behind this. For she spent a lot of time with Ahman Hadid, the man that Magnum’s crew brought down, and likely fell in love with him and wanted revenge for his death. Which at first, didn’t appear to be a sound theory. Since so many years had passed between the operation and this chaos. But… the discovery that she had a son with Hadid who also passed away, allowed for this theory to make sense and that gave Magnum quite the idea. Because Rick’s capture was likely designed to have him answer for being the one who pulled the trigger on Hadid. Which meant, there was a very good chance he was alive and well and being interrogated and harmed by Amherst to enact revenge, and that meant there was an easy way to figure out where he was… through Swayzak.
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Because he was in custody and on his way to jail, and if by chance… it appeared as though he was being rescued through people that worked both sides of the fence like he did, he would lead everyone to Rick and Nadine. So, a plan was put into place to stage his escape and well… it worked like a charm. For Swayzak did indeed return to home base, where Nadine was preparing to cause Rick great harm for being the man to put down the love of her life. But thankfully, no harm came to him. For the cavalry arrived and arrested Nadine and freed Rick, and with a little brute force on Magnum’s part… okay… a lot of brute force… Swayzak was also brought to justice. Bringing an end to this dastardly plot and leaving what was left of this once proud unit… wounded but alive.

If anything, this was… an epic and moving way to wrap up this particular storyline. Simply because, the cost was high to bring Nadine to justice. After all, Greene was gone, T.C. has a long recovery ahead and both Magnum and Rick came to realize they’re not invincible and really did have a close brush with the end. And now that the dust from this battle/rescue mission has settled, we can revel in a story that did a wonderful job of bringing this particular chapter in the life and times of Thomas Magnum and his friends to a close, and truly… it will be interesting to see how these men respond to what they experienced in this tale. For that close of a brush with death, can change people fundamentally, and it would come as no surprise if such matters will be explored in great detail when this magnificent show returns to the airwaves. Until next time.