Category Archives: entertainment

Americans Reject Trump/Sinclair/Nextar’s Censorship

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Censorship ought to be the most reviled form of control over self-expression in a country like the United States. The First Amendment guarantees the right to free expression and should not be subject to what a president or a media conglomerate deems acceptable speech. Such control is both vile and un-American.

Last night, a popular late-night show returned to the air—well, at least in many regions across the United States. However, ABC affiliate stations owned by Sinclair and Nexstar Media Group refused to air the show. Additionally, President Trump has publicly criticized the late-night comedian’s return.

Despite this opposition, ABC’s parent company, Disney—which faced considerable criticism last week for pulling Jimmy Kimmel from the air—has posted Kimmel’s returning opening monologue online for everyone to watch.

Here’s what you need to know and how you can watch Kimmel’s opening monologue in full.
https://crooksandliars.com/2025/09/americans-reject-trumpsinclairnextars

This Week in Switch 2 – Pokemon Legends Z-A hands-on preview, Silksong review & Daft Punk x Fortnite

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We are back with the latest episode of **This Week in Switch 2**, featuring a lively discussion on a variety of gaming topics. In this episode, we dive into TJ’s *Hollow Knight: Silksong* review, Donovan’s hands-on preview of *Pokemon Legends: Z-A*, Fortnite’s recent Daft Punk event, Nintendo Music’s latest additions, and the news of another Xbox price increase.

Be sure to check out TJ’s detailed *Hollow Knight: Silksong* review and Donovan’s insightful *Pokemon Legends: Z-A* preview articles for a closer look at these exciting titles.

**This Week in Switch 2** is our new weekly format that allows all Shacknews staff members to share their opinions on the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware, games, and operating system. Instead of rushing to publish reviews-in-progress, we are taking our time with both the Nintendo Switch 2 and *Mario Kart World* to provide you with thorough and useful review content.

With this series, we keep you updated by sharing our latest impressions of the console as we continue our review work. Plus, we’ve expanded the availability of the show by releasing the podcast in audio format on your favorite platforms.

You can now catch **This Week in Switch 2** on Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music/Audible, Player FM, Podchaser, and Apple Podcasts. Keep an eye out for new episodes and enjoy listening on the go!

We’ll be back next week with another episode, so stay tuned by following our [This Week in Switch 2 topic page](#).

Have any questions or topics you’d like us to cover in the next episode? Let us know in the Shacknews Chatty comment thread below!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146072/twis-2-podcast-episode-18-pokemon-silksong

Strictly judge Shirley Ballas reveals what was said during phone call with Dani Dyer after she was forced to quit show – and how producers are working to replace her

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**Strictly Judge Shirley Ballas Reveals Details of Phone Call with Dani Dyer Following Show Exit**

Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas has opened up about her conversation with Dani Dyer after the TV personality was forced to quit the show due to a devastating injury. The 65-year-old dancer and judge appeared on *This Morning* alongside hosts Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley on Wednesday to discuss Dani’s shock departure and how producers are working to find her replacement.

Speaking gravely about Dani, Shirley said, “I know her work ethic and when she got onto Strictly I thought, ‘They don’t know what’s hit them!'” Singing praises for the young star, Shirley continued, “This young lady is all sparkle, and of course, yesterday, she fell on her ankle, or twisted it, she has a hairline fracture, so she’s out.”

Shirley revealed she had spoken to Dani the day after her injury. “I spoke to her yesterday, she’s mortified, she’s devastated but, as I said to her, she could come back next year. You know, like Jamie Laing did, and he made the final.”

With Dani’s departure, Strictly bosses are now scrambling to find a replacement. Shirley shared insights on the situation behind the scenes: “I did speak to the executive producer [about a replacement] to try to get an answer for you and they’re hustling and bustling to see what they can do. We’re a dancer down. So, either, someone won’t go home the first week or something like that. But let’s hope that someone else will get the opportunity.”

The news broke on Tuesday when the *Daily Mail* reported that Dani, 29, one of the show’s favourites, had suffered a fractured ankle during a rehearsal last Friday, forcing her to bow out of the competition.

Dani confirmed the injury in a heartfelt statement, saying:
“I had a fall on Friday in rehearsals and landed funny. I thought I had rolled my foot but it swelled up badly over the weekend and after an MRI scan yesterday, it turns out I have fractured my ankle.”

She added with a touch of humour, “Apparently doing the quickstep on a fracture is not advisable (!) and the doctors have said I am not allowed to dance so I’ve had to pull out of the show.”

Dani expressed her heartbreak over the situation: “To say I’m heartbroken is the biggest understatement. I am so going to miss dancing with Nikita but will of course be watching closely and cheering all the couples on.”

The accident occurred before Dani even had the chance to perform a routine on the show.

Sarah James, Executive Producer for BBC Studios, also commented on the news:
“Dani has brought so much passion, joy and enthusiasm to Strictly, and her partnership with Nikita was off to the most sensational start. Everyone on the show is incredibly sad that she’s no longer able to compete in this year’s series. We send her all our love and best wishes for a swift recovery, and we very much hope to welcome her back to the ballroom in the future.”

Many of Dani’s Strictly co-stars, celebrities, and professional dancers expressed their sympathies following her early exit. Among them was head judge Shirley Ballas, who wrote on social media:
“I’m so so sorry. But health is most important. Get well soon Angel.”

—

Dani Dyer’s departure is a huge loss for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing, but fans and the show’s cast alike are hopeful for her swift recovery and eventual return.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tv/article-15129141/strictly-judge-shirley-ballas-phone-call-dani-dyer-quit.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490

Rajinikanth announces ‘Jailer 2’ release date, completes Kerala shoot

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**Rajinikanth Announces ‘Jailer 2’ Release Date, Completes Kerala Shoot**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | September 24, 2025, 2:25 PM*

The shooting of **Jailer 2**, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2023 blockbuster *Jailer*, is currently underway. Superstar Rajinikanth recently completed a shooting schedule in Kerala and announced that the film will be released on **June 12, 2026**. The announcement came at Chennai airport, where Rajinikanth was warmly welcomed by enthusiastic fans.

### Shooting Updates: Filming in Full Swing

The production of *Jailer 2* is taking place across multiple locations, with recent scenes shot near Palakkad, Kerala. Fans gathered to catch a glimpse of Rajinikanth, who greeted them by waving from his car’s sunroof. The Kerala schedule featured elaborate sets and intense action sequences, reportedly including the climax of the film.

### Cast and Expectations

*Jailer 2* promises to deliver another blockbuster experience, blending high-octane action with a mix of returning and new cast members. Alongside Rajinikanth, familiar faces from the original film will return, while notable additions such as SJ Suryah and Nandamuri Balakrishna join the ensemble.

Directed by Nelson, the first *Jailer* was a massive commercial success, grossing approximately ₹600 crore worldwide despite receiving mixed reviews. With the sequel in production, fans eagerly await another thrilling installment from this franchise.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Jailer 2* as the release date approaches!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/jailer-2-rajinikanth-announces-the-sequel-s-release-date/story

Rajinikanth announces ‘Jailer 2’ release date, completes Kerala shoot

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**Rajinikanth Announces ‘Jailer 2’ Release Date, Completes Kerala Shoot**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 24, 2025, 02:25 PM*

The highly anticipated sequel to the 2023 blockbuster *Jailer* is well underway. *Jailer 2* is currently in the midst of shooting, with its lead star Rajinikanth recently wrapping up a schedule in Kerala. During his visit to Chennai airport, Rajinikanth excitedly announced that the film is set to release on June 12, 2026. The superstar was greeted enthusiastically by fans upon his arrival.

**Shooting Details: ‘Jailer 2’ in Full Swing**

Filming for *Jailer 2* is taking place across multiple locations, with recent shoots spotted near Palakkad, Kerala. Fans warmly welcomed Rajinikanth, who waved to them from his car’s sunroof. The production’s action sequences and elaborate sets attracted significant attention locally. Reports indicate that the climax of *Jailer 2* was filmed during this Kerala schedule.

**Cast Highlights: New and Returning Faces**

The sequel aims to build on the success of the original with high-octane action and a compelling cast. Returning major stars from *Jailer* will be joined by popular actors SJ Suryah and Nandamuri Balakrishna, who are new additions to the ensemble.

Directed by Nelson, the first *Jailer* movie was a massive success, grossing around ₹600 crore worldwide despite receiving mixed reviews. Fans and industry insiders alike are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this action-packed franchise.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Jailer 2* as it progresses towards its June 2026 release.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/jailer-2-rajinikanth-announces-the-sequel-s-release-date/story

Why Aneet Padda replaced Kiara Advani in ‘Shakti Shalini’

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**Why Aneet Padda Replaced Kiara Advani in ‘Shakti Shalini’**
*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 24, 2025, 01:43 PM*

Aneet Padda, who impressed audiences with her debut film *Saiyaara*, has reportedly stepped into the lead role of the upcoming Maddock film *Shakti Shalini*, replacing Kiara Advani. While Maddock Films initially denied any changes in the cast, recent reports have confirmed Padda’s official casting in the titular role, sparking considerable buzz within the industry.

**Reasons Behind the Casting Change**

According to Bollywood Hungama, the primary reason for the replacement was Kiara Advani’s packed schedule. A source close to the production revealed, “*Shakti Shalini* is a critical film in the studio’s upcoming universe, and it’s imperative for the shoot to commence by the end of 2025. Kiara’s schedule is completely booked until mid-2026. She’s one of the most in-demand actresses at the moment.”

In addition to scheduling conflicts, changes in the film’s final script also influenced the casting decision. The insider explained, “The latest version of the screenplay focuses on the coming-of-age journey of a woman in her mid-20s. When Kiara was initially approached for the role, it was pitched to her as a more mature, layered individual. With the revised narrative leaning toward a younger protagonist, it no longer aligned with Kiara’s vision for the project.”

**Maintaining a Strong Professional Relationship**

Despite the casting shift, the parting between Kiara Advani and the *Shakti Shalini* team has been reportedly amicable. The source added, “Kiara and producer Dinesh Vijan continue to share a strong professional bond. In fact, Dinesh has already committed to bringing her another script within the next month. Maddock Films has several projects in the pipeline, and there’s no doubt that Kiara will headline one of them soon.”

With Aneet Padda now taking on the lead role, fans are eager to see how *Shakti Shalini* unfolds when filming begins later this year.

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/aneet-padda-replaces-kiara-advani-in-shakti-shalini/story

Annapurna Interactive’s first Tokyo Game Show Direct features three new game reveals

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Some of gaming’s biggest publishers are set to gather this weekend for the annual Tokyo Game Show. Among them is Annapurna Interactive, marking its first-ever appearance on the show floor.

Prior to the big event, the publisher held a special Annapurna Direct to unveil three brand-new titles, all of which will be playable for attendees this weekend.

**D-Topia**

First up is *D-Topia*, the latest effort from Japanese developer Marumittu Games. Formerly known as *Project D*, *D-Topia* follows a single maintenance worker who helps manage and oversee a residential facility run by artificial intelligence. Players will solve puzzles to keep the AI running smoothly and maintain the happiness of the facility’s denizens. This sometimes involves making difficult choices that impact the story.

Look for *D-Topia* to release in 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and Nintendo Switch.

**People of Note**

Next is *People of Note*, from the team at Iridium Studios. Best described as a musical turn-based RPG, the game centers around Cadence, an aspiring star who can’t reach stardom alone. Players will recruit other musicians to form a killer band and face off against tough musical acts as well as the occasional fantasy creature.

*People of Note* blends musical rhythm mechanics with turn-based battles, delivering a unique RPG experience. The game is set to launch in 2026 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

**Demi and the Fractured Dream**

Finally, *Demi and the Fractured Dream* comes from the team at Yarn Owl. The story follows Demi, a cursed voidsent who awakens in the world of Somnus and is beckoned by the old gods to fulfill his destiny.

This title features classic hack-and-slash adventuring combined with environmental puzzles. Demi must rely on his sword, his abilities, and an acolyte named Mergo to repair this imaginative yet fractured world.

*Demi and the Fractured Dream* is coming to PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and Nintendo Switch in 2026.

Stay tuned for more updates from the Tokyo Game Show as Annapurna Interactive and other publishers showcase their latest and upcoming games.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146058/annapurna-interactive-direct-tokyo-game-show-reveals

Jimmy Kimmel’s Show Set To Return On Air, But Still May Face Partial Boycott

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Despite ABC revoking Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension, Nexstar and Sinclair have refused to air his show over “insensitivity” following his remarks about the MAGA movement.

The day after ABC lifted the suspension on Jimmy Kimmel’s show, local TV stations operated by Nexstar and Sinclair, which collectively run dozens of stations affiliated with ABC, announced they would continue to replace the show with regular programming on Tuesday.

“Mr. Kimmel’s remarks were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country,” said Sinclair’s vice-chairman, Jason Smith.

Kimmel’s late-night talk show was abruptly pulled last week after Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr and affiliate networks threatened ABC over comments Kimmel made in a monologue about the MAGA movement’s response to Charlie Kirk’s assassination. This incident sparked a heated debate between supporters of former President Donald Trump’s administration and Kimmel regarding government interference and freedom of speech.

On Monday, over 400 artists, including Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, and Jennifer Aniston, signed an open letter organized by the ACLU in support of Kimmel, CNN reported.

Later, a spokesperson for the Walt Disney Company, which owns ABC, told CNN, “We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday.”
https://www.news18.com/world/tv-stations-refuse-to-air-insensitive-kimmels-show-despite-abc-lifting-suspension-ws-l-9592556.html

Jimmy Kimmel’s Show Set To Return On Air, But Still May Face Partial Boycott

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Despite ABC revoking Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension, Nexstar and Sinclair refused to air his show over “insensitivity” following his MAGA remarks.

A day after the suspension order on Jimmy Kimmel’s show was revoked, local TV stations owned by Nexstar and Sinclair announced they would continue to refuse to air the program, citing concerns over its “insensitivity.” BBC quoted Nexstar and Sinclair, which together operate dozens of ABC-affiliated stations, stating that they would replace the show with regular programming on Tuesday.

“Mr. Kimmel’s remarks were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country,” said Sinclair’s vice-chairman, Jason Smith.

The late-night talk show was abruptly pulled off the air last week after Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr, along with networks of affiliate stations, threatened ABC over Kimmel’s comments made during a monologue about the MAGA movement’s response to Charlie Kirk’s assassination.

This controversy sparked a debate between supporters of President Donald Trump’s administration and Kimmel regarding government interference and freedom of speech.

On Monday, over 400 artists, including Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, and Jennifer Aniston, signed an open letter organized by the ACLU in support of Kimmel, CNN reported.

Later, a spokesperson for the Walt Disney Company, which owns ABC, told CNN: “We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday.”
https://www.news18.com/world/tv-stations-refuse-to-air-insensitive-kimmels-show-despite-abc-lifting-suspension-ws-l-9592556.html