After four-and-a-half months of a strike that has paralyzed the entertainment industry, Hollywood writers and producers are inching closer to a deal. On Wednesday, the Writers Guild of America and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers resumed negotiations and released a joint statement, with a source close to the negotiations saying talks were "productive". Both sides have expressed optimism that a deal could be reached soon, and will continue negotiations on Thursday.
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Halle Berry has spoken out against rapper Drake for using a photo of her without her permission as the cover art for his new single. She posted a message on Instagram expressing her displeasure and explaining that Drake had asked for permission but she had declined. Fans have been supportive of her stance, applauding her for standing up for her rights and setting a good example for other artists.
After four months of failed contract negotiations, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) are set to resume talks on Wednesday. Bill Maher, host of the HBO talk show “Real Time,” had previously announced that the show would be returning to TV without the presence of writers, but reversed his decision last week in support of the strike. The WGA is encouraging its members to continue to demonstrate their commitment to the strike by attending picket lines while negotiations are ongoing.
Russell Brand, an actor and comedian, has been accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse by four women. His management agency, Tavistock Wood Management Agency, has terminated their professional ties with him and released a statement saying they were "horribly misled" by him. Brand performed a sold-out stand-up show on Saturday, alluding to the allegations but not discussing them. No charges have been filed against him yet.
Billy Miller, an Emmy Award-winning actor known for his roles on "The Young and the Restless," "General Hospital" and "All My Children," has died at the age of 44. He was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin before relocating to Los Angeles. Miller's manager confirmed his death on Friday, Sept. 15, in Austin, Texas, and revealed he was struggling with manic depression. He will be remembered for his impact on soap opera fans.
Drew Barrymore has announced that her talk show will not be returning due to backlash from her decision to resume production amid the Hollywood writers strike. Rosie O'Donnell shared an essay from Elizabeth Grey on her Instagram page which suggested Barrymore should stop asking audiences to cross the picket line. CBS Media Ventures voiced their support for Barrymore's decision to reverse course and respect the strike.
Jann Wenner, co-founder of Rolling Stone magazine and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, has been removed from the Hall of Fame's Board of Directors following comments he made that were seen as disparaging towards Black and female musicians. The Hall of Fame released a statement saying they are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all music fans and will not tolerate any form of discrimination or bigotry. They have yet to announce who will replace Wenner on the Board of Directors.
Russell Brand, a British actor and comedian, has denied allegations of rape, sexual assault and abusive behavior following a joint investigation by multiple UK-based news outlets. Brand has stated that all of his relationships have been consensual, and has called for more support for survivors of sexual assault in the past. The investigation includes allegations from four women and Channel 4 has released a trailer for its upcoming special on the investigation.