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Lady Gaga Delivers a Dazzling Coachella Spectacle Blending Theatrical Chaos and Raw Emotion

Andy Lalwani
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Lady Gaga Delivers a Dazzling Coachella Spectacle Blending Theatrical Chaos and Raw Emotion

Lady Gaga’s headlining performance at Coachella 2025 was a masterclass in theatrical spectacle, musical prowess, and emotional depth. Taking the stage on the opening night of the festival, Gaga delivered a 110-minute set that seamlessly blended her extensive catalog with new material from her latest album, Mayhem. The performance was not just a concert but a narrative journey, structured into five distinct acts, each exploring different facets of her artistic identity.

A Theatrical Odyssey

The show commenced with a spoken word piece titled “The Manifesto of Mayhem,” setting the tone for the evening’s exploration of chaos and rebirth. Each act was introduced with title cards, such as “Of Velvet and Vice” and “The Beautiful Nightmare That Knows Her Name,” guiding the audience through a visual and auditory odyssey. Gaga’s costume changes were as dramatic as the music itself, ranging from gothic ensembles to avant-garde creations, each symbolizing different themes of the performance.​

One of the most striking visuals occurred during “Poker Face,” where the stage was transformed into a life-sized chessboard. Aerial shots captured the intricate choreography from above, reminiscent of Busby Berkeley’s cinematic style. The performance featured a stylized battle between two opposing groups, one led by Gaga and the other by a veiled figure dressed in white. The routine concluded with Gaga emerging victorious, prompting the audience to chant “Off with Her Head” toward the defeated figure.

The narrative continued with Gaga symbolically confronting and overcoming her past selves. In a dramatic sequence, she was ‘executed’ on stage, only to be ‘resurrected’ by dancers in plague doctor costumes, paying homage to her earlier work while signaling her evolution as an artist. ​

Musical Highlights

Musically, the setlist was a dynamic blend of Gaga’s greatest hits and new tracks from Mayhem. Songs like “Bad Romance,” “Born This Way,” and “Paparazzi” were reimagined with fresh arrangements, showcasing her vocal range and ability to reinterpret her own work. New songs such as “Garden of Eden” and “Zombieboy” were performed live for the first time, receiving enthusiastic responses from the audience. A notable collaboration occurred during “Killah,” where French DJ Gesaffelstein joined Gaga on stage, adding an electronic edge to the performance. ​

The emotional core of the show was evident in the stripped-down rendition of “Die With a Smile,” performed at a skull-adorned piano. Gaga’s heartfelt delivery resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting her ability to connect on a personal level through her music. ​

Visual and Production Mastery

The production design was nothing short of spectacular. The massive set featured intricate ramps that extended into the audience, creating an immersive experience. These ramps allowed Gaga and her dancers to traverse the space dynamically, enhancing the theatricality of the performance. The backdrop, described as an “opera house in the desert,” was a testament to the show’s grandeur and ambition. Gaga’s statement, “I wanted to make a romantic gesture to you… I decided to build you an opera house in the desert,” encapsulated the show’s ethos of blending high art with pop culture. ​

Emotional Resonance

As the performance neared its conclusion, Gaga took a moment to address the audience directly. Expressing gratitude and reflecting on the shared experience, she said, “It’s fucking beautiful out here. I always feel so blessed to be with the audience because you always teach me something profound. The truth is, we’re all one. It’s just all one fucking thing.” This candid expression of connection underscored the show’s emotional depth and Gaga’s genuine appreciation for her fans. ​

A Defining Moment

Lady Gaga’s Coachella 2025 performance was a defining moment in her career, showcasing her evolution as an artist and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of live performance. By blending music, theater, and visual art, she created an experience that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. The show not only highlighted her vocal and performance skills but also her ability to craft a cohesive narrative that resonated with the audience on multiple levels.​

As the festival continues, Gaga’s set stands out as a testament to the power of live performance and the enduring impact of her artistry. For fans and critics alike, it was a night to remember, reaffirming Lady Gaga’s status as one of the most innovative and influential performers of her generation.​

Lady Gaga’s Coachella 2025 setlist included:​

  1. Bloody Mary

  2. Abracadabra

  3. Judas

  4. Scheiße

  5. Garden of Eden

  6. Poker Face

  7. Perfect Celebrity

  8. Disease

  9. Paparazzi

  10. Alejandro

  11. The Beast

  12. Killah (with Gesaffelstein)

  13. Zombieboy

  14. Die With a Smile

  15. How Bad Do U Want Me

  16. Shadow of a Man / Kill for Love

  17. Born This Way

  18. Shallow

  19. Vanish Into You

  20. Bad Romance​KBAK+6UPROXX+6Wikipedia+6Wikipedia

Linda McMahon Mistakes Artificial Intelligence for Steak Sauce During Education Panel

Josh Azevedo
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Linda McMahon Mistakes Artificial Intelligence for Steak Sauce During Education Panel

Secretary of Education Linda McMahon made headlines this week, but not for the reason you’d hope from the nation’s top education official. While speaking on a panel at the ASU+GSV Summit—an annual global conference focused on the future of education and innovation—McMahon repeatedly confused “AI” (artificial intelligence) with “A1,” the beloved steak sauce.

Yes, really.

During her remarks about how artificial intelligence could shape early childhood learning, McMahon earnestly declared that “first graders, or even pre-Ks, will have A1 teaching every year.” The gaffe didn’t end there. She doubled down, proclaiming, “It wasn’t all that long ago that it was, ‘We’re going to have internet in our schools!’ Now let’s see A1 and how can that be helpful.”

The error would’ve been a simple slip-up—if she hadn’t said it multiple times.

McMahon, a former WWE executive and Trump-appointed Education Secretary, is no stranger to the spotlight. But this time, the internet came for her quicker than a steel chair in a wrestling ring. Critics were quick to highlight the irony: the Secretary of Education misidentifying artificial intelligence as a steak condiment.

Naturally, the marketing team at A.1. Sauce couldn’t resist the moment. The brand shared a spoof image on Instagram featuring a bottle labeled “For education purposes only,” with the caption: “You heard her. Every school should have access to A.1.” The cheeky post read, “Agree. Best to start them early.”

The internet, predictably, erupted. X (formerly Twitter) was flooded with memes, GIFs, and roasts. “We’re ruled by the stupidest, most incompetent people in the world,” one user posted, while another joked, “A1 for education, and the smart kids graduate to Thousand Island Dressing.”

One particularly savage post read: “Linda McMahon thinking A.I. stands for steak sauce is the most American thing I’ve heard all week.”

While public officials are human and verbal slip-ups happen, the gaffe reignited ongoing concerns about digital literacy in government—particularly at a time when AI is reshaping the global workforce, educational standards, and how young people learn.

Still, if nothing else, the moment gave everyone a much-needed laugh—and gave A.1. a PR win no marketing budget could’ve bought.

As for the future of AI in education? Hopefully, it comes with fewer condiments and more clarity.

Netflix Casts Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet in New ‘Pride & Prejudice’ Series

Caitlynn McDaniel
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Netflix Casts Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet in New ‘Pride & Prejudice’ Series

It’s that time again—Pride and Prejudice is getting a fresh new makeover, and we’re already obsessed. A brand-new cast, a dreamy six-episode run, and yes, Emma Corrin as Lizzie Bennet? This adaptation is giving us everything we’ve ever wanted.

This week, Netflix revealed the cast for its new six-part limited series based on Jane Austen’s iconic novel. And playing our favorite sharp-witted, fiercely independent heroine, Elizabeth? None other than Emma Corrin.

The Crown star, who identifies as nonbinary, will lead the upcoming series alongside Oscar-winner Olivia Colman as the meddling Mrs. Bennet and Jack Lowden as the smoldering Mr. Darcy.

Billed as a “faithful” adaptation of Jane Austen’s iconic 1813 novel, the series comes from writer Dolly Alderton (Everything I Know About Love) and Heartstopper director Euros Lyn. And yes—Corrin is pulling double duty as both star and executive producer.

“Playing Elizabeth Bennet is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Corrin said in a statement. “To be able to bring this iconic character to life, alongside Olivia and Jack, with Dolly’s phenomenal scripts, is truly the greatest honor. I can’t wait for a new generation to fall in love with this story all over again.”

Alderton echoed the excitement, calling the novel “the blueprint for romantic comedy.”

“Once in a generation, a group of people get to retell this wonderful story and I feel very lucky that I get to be a part of it,” she said. “It has been a joy to delve back into its pages to find both familiar and fresh ways of bringing this beloved book to life.

“With Euros Lyn directing our stellar cast, I am so excited to reintroduce these hilarious and complicated characters to those who count Pride and Prejudice as their favorite book, and those who are yet to meet their Lizzie and Mr. Darcy.”

Pride and Prejudice is the ultimate slow-burn romance, full of sharp banter, social mishaps, and scandalous suitors. It follows Elizabeth Bennet, a clever and outspoken young woman, as she navigates love, family drama, and the rigid expectations of 19th-century society—especially when the aloof (but secretly smitten) Mr. Darcy enters the picture.

Filming is expected to begin later this year, with no premiere date announced just yet.

Jeremiah Brent Reveals He Was ‘Terrified’ to Join Queer Eye Cast: ‘I’m Really Good at Failing’

Andy Lalwani
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Jeremiah Brent Reveals He Was ‘Terrified’ to Join Queer Eye Cast: ‘I’m Really Good at Failing’

Jeremiah Brent, the newest member of the Queer Eye Fab Five, has shared his initial apprehensions about joining the hit Netflix series, revealing he was “really nervous” when he first stepped into the role of the show’s interior design and home organization expert. Brent joined the Fab Five in 2024 for the ninth season of the makeover show, replacing Bobby Berk, who had been the resident design guru since the show’s inception in 2018.

Brent, who is also known for his role on Say I Do, sat down with PinkNews while promoting his new partnership with the insect-repellent brand STEM. In the conversation, Brent candidly discussed his feelings of uncertainty before joining the show and the challenges he faced in replacing someone as iconic as Berk.

“I was absolutely terrified,” Brent admitted. “It’s always been the driving force for me. I usually run into decisions like this because I’m really good at failing.” The 40-year-old, who previously spent two decades closeted, added, “I was closeted for 20 years—I can do anything!” His triumphant tone highlighted his resilience, which has been an integral part of his journey, both personally and professionally.

Despite his fears, Brent recognized the cultural significance of Queer Eye and the impact it has had on both viewers and the people it features. “That show is important culturally. It’s important with the work it does and the people it meets and interacts with,” he said. He explained that the show’s legacy and its role in sparking important conversations made his decision to join all the more daunting. “I really wanted to do a good job,” he reflected.

Brent also acknowledged the close-knit dynamic of the Fab Five, describing it as similar to walking into an established group of friends. “It’s like any group of friends you walk into,” he explained. “They’re a family. They’ve been through a lot together.” Brent spoke with great admiration for Jonathan Van Ness, Tan France, Antoni Porowski, and Karamo Brown, noting how they’ve led “the most difficult conversations culturally” over the past decade.

In stepping into Berk’s shoes, Brent found himself at the center of speculation about the reasons for Berk’s departure. Rumors had swirled in the media, suggesting potential tensions between the Fab Five members. However, Brent’s experience on the show has proven to be a positive one, and he is quick to dismiss any concerns about discord. “Since joining the show, we’ve become incredibly close,” he shared. “I said the first day I met them, ‘I’m just here to be a partner. I’m just here to be a friend and to do this with you guys.’ What blossomed from the experience is probably four of my dearest friends now.” He continued, “Life is funny, and it puts the people in your life that are meant to be there. It has been a real gift. I’ve absolutely loved every part of it.”

Brent also revealed the authenticity of Queer Eye, which, according to him, sets it apart from many other reality shows. “The show is real,” he explained. “It’s not like these other things you see on TV that are wildly produced. I’ve been a part of that. You actually make an impact on people’s lives, and you watch them step into this new iteration of themselves and see themselves the way you see them. It’s just really powerful, and I’m really proud to be a part of it.”

The impact of the show is something Brent holds dear, particularly in how it helps people rediscover their confidence and sense of self. “It’s not just about the design or the makeover,” he emphasized. “It’s about helping people see their worth, which is a beautiful thing to witness.”

In addition to his role on Queer Eye, Brent has been involved in a new advertising campaign with STEM, where he showcases the brand’s insect-repelling products. The campaign features a humorous interaction between Brent and New Girl star Max Greenfield. In the ad, Greenfield plays a disruptive “pest,” while Brent highlights the effectiveness of the STEM Light Trap and Fan Trap in maintaining a peaceful home environment.

Brent, who uses STEM’s products in his own New York home with husband Nate Berkus, shared his tips for creating a relaxing and functional living space. For him, home design is less about the amount of money spent and more about the care and attention to detail. “We didn’t grow up with a lot of money, but my mother worked really hard,” Brent recalled. “What was really important was cleanliness and organization. We may not have had a lot, but we took a lot of care in what we did have.”

He stressed that beauty in home design is subjective and should reflect the story of the people living there. “Beauty is not about how much you spend in your space,” he said. “It’s about the story you’re telling about who you are through your space.” On Queer Eye, he noted that each episode showcases a different story, and the transformations are tailored to the individuals’ unique needs. “Every episode stylistically is very different because the people are different, and their stories are different. What they find beautiful is different, and what they need to find respite in is different.”

Brent’s perspective on home design emphasizes the emotional connection people have with their living spaces. “It’s less about the sofa, more about the moment that matters the most to you in that room,” he explained. “That can really shift the way you live, absolutely.”

As Queer Eye continues to evolve, Brent’s presence brings a fresh yet familiar energy to the team. His honest approach to design, combined with his openness about his personal journey, has resonated with fans and participants alike. With Season 10 of Queer Eye set to begin filming soon, Brent’s role as the interior design expert continues to inspire and transform the lives of those featured on the show.

The impact of Queer Eye goes far beyond makeovers. It’s about helping people embrace who they are, and for Jeremiah Brent, that’s what makes being a part of the show so meaningful.

New ‘Black Mirror’ Episode ‘Hotel Reverie’ Draws Comparisons to Fan-Favorite ‘San Junipero’ for Queer Love Story

Andy Lalwani
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New ‘Black Mirror’ Episode ‘Hotel Reverie’ Draws Comparisons to Fan-Favorite ‘San Junipero’ for Queer Love Story

The latest season of the dystopian anthology series “Black Mirror” has arrived on Netflix, and one episode in particular, titled “Hotel Reverie,” is already generating buzz and drawing comparisons to the critically acclaimed and beloved “San Junipero” for its central queer love story.  

“San Junipero,” which aired in the show’s third season, is widely regarded as one of the series’ most poignant and optimistic installments. Starring Mackenzie Davis and Gugu Mbatha-Raw, the episode followed two women who meet and fall in love within a virtual afterlife simulation called San Junipero. The episode resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, earning two Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Television Movie.  

Now, “Black Mirror” may have delivered another compelling queer narrative with “Hotel Reverie,” which features nonbinary actor Emma Corrin and Issa Rae in leading roles. Rae portrays Brandy Friday, a high-profile Hollywood actor who becomes immersed in a technologically advanced remake of a classic romantic film. Within this immersive experience, Brandy finds herself falling in love with one of the characters, played by Corrin.  

According to the official synopsis for “Hotel Reverie,” “Hollywood A-list actor Brandy Friday is thrown into an unusually immersive high-tech remake of a vintage romantic movie. She’s got to stick to the script if she ever wants to make it home.” This premise sets the stage for a potentially mind-bending exploration of identity, reality, and connection, themes often explored in “Black Mirror.”  

Corrin spoke highly of their co-star Rae in an interview with Elle UK, praising her comedic talent. “She’s brilliant,” Corrin said. “Her comic timing is unreal. It’s a love story at the heart, which I think is going to be surprising for people. It’s not this big horror warning.” This suggests a departure from the often unsettling and cautionary tone that characterizes many “Black Mirror” episodes, hinting at a more emotionally driven narrative.

Elle UK further described the dynamic between Corrin and Rae, noting that “the scenes between [Corrin] and Rae are infinitely watchable” and that “their chemistry is so tender that it blunts the sense of dread that often accompanies a ‘Black Mirror’ episode.” This emphasis on the actors’ connection and the tenderness of the relationship echoes the central appeal of “San Junipero,” which captivated viewers with its heartfelt portrayal of queer love.

Rae herself has acknowledged the parallels between “Hotel Reverie” and past fan-favorite episodes with queer themes. In an interview with TV Insider, Rae stated that the episode reminded her of her “favorite episode, ‘San Junipero,’ and ‘Striking Vipers,'” another “Black Mirror” installment that explored complex relationships and virtual reality. However, she expressed hope that viewers “can look at them both separately but also appreciate them both as compliments to one another,” suggesting that while there are thematic similarities, “Hotel Reverie” offers its own unique perspective.  

“Striking Vipers,” from the show’s fifth season, featured a reunion between two male friends that takes a complicated turn when they begin exploring their relationship within a virtual reality fighting game, raising questions about intimacy and identity. While not explicitly a lesbian romance like “San Junipero” or the apparent dynamic in “Hotel Reverie,” it also delved into unconventional forms of connection.  

The comparisons to “San Junipero” are significant given that episode’s lasting impact on viewers and its recognition from the Television Academy. The fact that “Hotel Reverie” is already being discussed in the same breath suggests that it has struck a chord with audiences seeking nuanced and engaging LGBTQ+ representation within the science fiction genre.

As “Black Mirror” continues its exploration of the intersection between technology and humanity, “Hotel Reverie” appears poised to offer a compelling examination of love and identity in an increasingly digital world, potentially joining the ranks of the series’ most memorable and emotionally resonant episodes.

Season seven of “Black Mirror,” featuring “Hotel Reverie,” is now available for streaming on Netflix, allowing viewers to determine for themselves if this new queer-centered story can achieve the same lasting impact as the beloved “San Junipero.” The early reactions and comparisons indicate a strong possibility that “Hotel Reverie” will become a significant talking point among fans and critics alike, further solidifying “Black Mirror’s” reputation for thought-provoking and boundary-pushing storytelling.   

Alexander Skarsgård Stars in Kinky Gay Romance ‘Pillion’ Heading to Cannes

Josh Azevedo
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Alexander Skarsgård Stars in Kinky Gay Romance ‘Pillion’ Heading to Cannes

Buckle up (and maybe bring a safe word). The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has revealed its official lineup—and this year, it’s bringing a thrilling wave of queer stories, including one scandalously seductive motorcycle romance that’s already revving engines.

Among the buzziest world premieres is Pillion, the debut feature from director Harry Lighton. The film, which Variety has cheekily described as a “fun and filthy romance with heart,” stars Alexander Skarsgård (The Northman) and Harry Melling (The Queen’s Gambit) in what’s shaping up to be one of the most talked-about entries at the festival.

 

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Pillion, named after the back seat of a motorcycle, follows Colin (Melling), a shy, unassuming man drifting through life—until he meets Ray (Skarsgård), a magnetic motorcycle club leader with a commanding presence and a flair for kink. What starts as an erotic thrill ride quickly deepens, as Colin is pulled into a tight-knit community of queer bikers, awakening new desires and emotional truths.

“Ray uproots Colin from his dreary suburban life,” Variety reports, “introducing him to a community of kinky, queer bikers and taking all sorts of virginities along the way.” But as the lines between liberation and domination blur, Colin begins to question whether he’s truly found freedom—or simply traded one kind of confinement for another.

If that doesn’t scream “Cannes chaos,” we don’t know what does.

But Pillion is just one of several standout LGBTQ+ stories headed to the Croisette this year. The lineup also features Rebecca Zlotowski’s Vie Privée, starring Jodie Foster as a high-profile psychiatrist investigating the mysterious death of a patient; Kelly Reichardt’s high-stakes heist film The Mastermind; and Oliver Hermanus’ historical romance The History of Sound, which stars Josh O’Connor and Paul Mescal as two men recording folk songs—and falling in love—while traveling across the U.S. during World War I.

With themes spanning mystery, music, mayhem, and motorcycles, the 2025 Cannes Film Festival promises a bold and eclectic celebration of cinema.

The festival runs from May 13 to May 24 on the iconic French Riviera. Bring your sunscreen—and your emotional armor.

Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Fortnite’ Takeover Sparks Outcry Among Some Straight Gamer Bros

Andy Lalwani
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Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Fortnite’ Takeover Sparks Outcry Among Some Straight Gamer Bros

Pop singer Sabrina Carpenter’s prominent integration into the popular online video game “Fortnite” has ignited a passionate response from players, with her fans celebrating her arrival and a vocal minority of gamers expressing their displeasure. Carpenter is currently headlining the latest iteration of “Fortnite Festival,” a performance-based game mode within “Fortnite,” and the update has introduced a range of Sabrina-themed customization options for players’ avatars.

These new features allow players to personalize their in-game characters to resemble Carpenter and utilize emotes and dances set to some of her popular songs. This integration has rapidly gained traction within the “Fortnite” community, with Carpenter’s fans enthusiastically embracing the opportunity to express their fandom within the virtual world. Social media platforms have been flooded with videos showcasing players mimicking Carpenter’s signature “Juno” poses from her tour, engaging in virtual dance-offs featuring legions of Sabrina-inspired avatars, and generally populating the game with digital representations of the singer.

The widespread adoption of the Sabrina Carpenter customizations has been met with humor and excitement by many players. One user on social media expressed their delight with a playful lament: “they never should’ve added sabrina to fortnite LMFAOOO.” Another player highlighted a sense of solidarity among fans, stating, “the refusal to kill another sabrina carpenter girlie on fortnite.”

However, this enthusiastic reception has been counterbalanced by a wave of negative reactions from some segments of the “Fortnite” player base, particularly those who appear resistant to the inclusion of pop culture figures they perceive as outside the game’s core demographic. This sentiment has manifested in online complaints and expressions of frustration over the perceived “invasion” of the game by Carpenter’s fanbase.

One social media account, which has repeatedly posted critical remarks, asserted that “Sabrina Carpenter has RUINED Fortnite.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern among some gamers about the perceived dilution of the game’s original identity and the influx of players primarily drawn by the celebrity crossover rather than the game itself.

Conversely, many observers have found the intense negative reactions to be disproportionate and even comical. One user commented on the phenomenon, writing, “Grown men absolutely seething over Sabrina Carpenter having a skin in Fortnite is so strange.” Another player offered a more pointed interpretation of the backlash, sarcastically suggesting, “FORTNITE FACT: Sabrina Carpenter received a large wave of backlash and hate when she was introduced to Fortnite Festival. This is a clever reference to how the majority of Fortnite’s fanbase are sexist incels.”

Despite the outcry from some quarters, a significant portion of the “Fortnite” community remains determined to enjoy the new content and celebrate Carpenter’s presence in the game. Numerous players have shared their positive experiences and humorous interactions with the Sabrina Carpenter features. One user proudly declared, “just killed a man in fortnite as sabrina carpenter,” while another expressed a renewed interest in the game, stating, “i reinstalled Fortnite for the first time in 5 years yall dont understand how much i love Sabrina Carpenter.”

The sentiment of embracing Carpenter’s inclusion is further echoed by players who have readily adopted her avatar. One user simply stated, “just loaded in the lobby with my Sabrina Carpenter skin in fortnite.” Some have even framed her arrival as a welcome disruption to established norms within the gaming community. One user playfully remarked, “good. i hope she ruins everything men love,” and another quipped, “absolutely fucking brilliant that from now on, if any man mentions Fortnite, I can ask if he means the Sabrina Carpenter game.”

The dynamic surrounding Sabrina Carpenter’s integration into “Fortnite” highlights the ongoing intersection of mainstream pop culture and the gaming world. While collaborations between celebrities and video games are not new, they often elicit strong reactions from dedicated gaming communities, particularly when they introduce elements that are perceived as deviating from the game’s traditional themes or target audience.

The intensity of the backlash in this instance underscores the passionate and often protective nature of gaming fandom. For some players, “Fortnite” represents a specific virtual space with established norms and identities, and the influx of a large fanbase drawn from outside that core group can be seen as disruptive.

However, the significant positive response from Carpenter’s fans and other players who appreciate the new content demonstrates the potential for such crossovers to broaden a game’s appeal and introduce new audiences. The “Fortnite Festival” mode, by its very nature, is designed to integrate musical artists and performances into the game, making Carpenter’s headlining role a logical extension of this feature.

Ultimately, the “Sabrina Carpenter in Fortnite” phenomenon illustrates the diverse and often conflicting interests within the gaming community. While some players may lament the introduction of pop star elements, others enthusiastically embrace the opportunity for new forms of self-expression and social interaction within the game’s virtual environment. The digital landscape of “Fortnite” has, for the time being, become a stage for both celebration and contention as Carpenter’s influence continues to resonate with its players.

Lady Gaga Promises ‘Gothic Dreams’ and High-Octane Mayhem for Her 2025 Coachella Headlining Return

Josh Azevedo
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Lady Gaga Promises ‘Gothic Dreams’ and High-Octane Mayhem for Her 2025 Coachella Headlining Return

Little Monsters, grab your fishnets and get ready for some “Gothic dreams” in the desert. Lady Gaga is making her grand return to the Coachella —and this time, she’s bringing Mayhem with her.

The global pop icon is set to headline the Friday lineup of the iconic festival, marking her first Coachella performance since 2017. Back then, she stepped in last-minute to replace Beyoncé, who had announced she was pregnant with twins. Eight years later, Gaga is back on the main stage—but don’t expect a repeat performance.

 

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“I don’t want to give anything away,” Gaga teased in an interview with Out, “but I’ll say that it’s a completely different show to what I did the first time. It’s going to incorporate a lot of the new record… and I’m so excited. I’m working on it with Parris Goebel, and we’re really having a good time.”

The new record she’s referring to? Mayhem, Gaga’s latest album, already streaming on all major platforms—and already being embraced by fans, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community, for its raw energy and theatrical vibes.

“Mayhem is, to me, a lot of Gothic dreams,” Gaga explained. “I’ve realized that’s been a part of my music since early in my career. So I’m just really thinking about the lighting, the feeling, the energy, and what I want to help people feel that night.”

And Gaga’s got big plans for that feeling. With a full two-hour set to play with, she’s aiming to deliver more than just a performance—she’s curating an experience. “It’s amazing that I get a time slot where they’re like, ‘You get two hours to make people happy.’ I’m going to do my best.”

Gaga’s mission to spread joy is especially personal as she speaks to her longtime relationship with her queer fans. “I just want to make people happy, so I hope that my queer fans feel happy listening to the music,” she said. “To me, music is a gift and contribution to culture.”

She adds, with her signature sincerity, “It’s an honor to be in conversation with the queer community all of these years. Thank you so much for giving me so much inspiration.”

Mayhem is available now on all streaming services. For tickets and information on Lady Gaga’s Coachella performance, visit coachella.com.

‘Happy Endings with Bruno’ Set to Premiere on WOW Presents Plus This Summer

Josh Azevedo
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‘Happy Endings with Bruno’ Set to Premiere on WOW Presents Plus This Summer

WOW Presents Plus is bringing the heat (and the deep tissue therapy) this summer with its newest original series, Happy Endings with Bruno, starring none other than RuPaul’s Drag Race Pit Crew favorite and long-time masseur Bruno Alcantara.

Premiering exclusively on WOW Presents Plus worldwide, the series is produced by the Emmy-winning team at World of Wonder and promises a cozy blend of ASMR-meets-heart-to-heart realness. Each episode invites viewers into Bruno’s massage studio, where celebrity guests are treated to full-body massages—and full-on emotional conversations. Think muscle relief with a side of vulnerability, topped off with a dash of sass.

Bruno isn’t just working out knots—he’s digging deep into his guests’ personal journeys to find out: “What does my happy ending look like?” Spoiler alert: it’s way more meaningful than a spa day.

“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity WOW Presents Plus has given me to share my passion for massage with a global audience,” Alcantara said in a statement. “For me, massage is more than just relaxation—it’s about connection, healing, and the power of human touch.” And honestly, in a world that could use more hugs and hot stones, who can argue?

The guest list is as juicy as a massage oil drip. Expect a rotating cast of Drag Race queens, dancers, actors and content creators who aren’t afraid to bare their souls—or their shoulders. Confirmed stars include Brandon Kyle Goodman (Abbott Elementary, Big Mouth), influencer Kyle Krieger, Nick Lemmer (a.k.a. Lazi Susan from RuPaul’s Drag Race Live!), Kameron Michaels (RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 10 and All Stars Season 6), Sebastian Molina (another Drag Race Live! hunk), and Siam Phusri from Drag Race Thailand Season 3.

Happy Endings with Bruno joins a robust slate of programming on WOW Presents Plus, including World of Wonder’s award-winning documentaries, global Drag Race spin-offs, and plenty of behind-the-scenes fabulousness for diehard fans.

If you’ve ever thought a massage could use a little more glitter, gossip, and glittery gossip—this show is for you.

Happy Endings with Bruno drops this summer. Start your subscription (and your emotional healing) at www.wowpresentsplus.com.

Pete Buttigieg’s New Beard Is Out and So Are His Unfiltered Political Takes

Josh Azevedo
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Pete Buttigieg’s New Beard Is Out and So Are His Unfiltered Political Takes

Pete Buttigieg may have stepped away from Washington, but he’s not staying silent.

The former U.S. transportation secretary and 2020 presidential candidate appeared on The Weekly Show with Jon Stewart podcast this week with sharp commentary, a newly scruffy look, and some clear warnings about former President Donald Trump’s chaotic economic policies.

Now teaching part-time and raising twin toddlers with husband Chasten, Buttigieg is relishing his post-Cabinet life—but he’s far from tuning out.

Life After the Cabinet (and Facial Hair Freedom)

“Pete, look at you with the scruff,” host Jon Stewart remarked as Buttigieg appeared on screen.

“You started it,” Buttigieg quipped back, explaining that after a family vacation, he decided to ditch the daily shave required in public office. The beard, he joked, is just one of the perks of no longer running a department with 55,000 employees.

“I guess I should feed the dog now,” he said of his new home routine.

Trump’s Tariff Chaos: “This Is Not a Game”

Shifting to serious topics, Buttigieg didn’t hold back when asked about Trump’s recent tariff moves—an erratic rollout that rattled global markets before being partially walked back.

“These are decisions that very quickly go to our everyday lives,” Buttigieg said. “Whether you’re hoping, as a construction worker, that a project is going forward near you, or you’re at the grocery store seeing prices rise—this is not a game.”

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“They don’t view an honest discussion of policy as something they need to slow down and do.” We’re digging into the Trump team’s logic, or lack-there-of, with @Pete Buttigieg. #TheWeeklyShow #politics

♬ original sound – The Weekly Show Podcast

Referring to recent reporting that conservative economists discovered basic math errors in Trump’s tariff policy, he added: “That actually matters when trillions of dollars depend on what you do—and how you do it.”

He also emphasized what many overlook: “A tariff is a tax,” he reminded listeners. “And people are paying it.”

“This Is Chaotic On Purpose”

Buttigieg described the Trump team’s approach as not just messy—but intentional.

“There’s a logic here,” he explained. “If you make it completely chaotic, then the only organizing principle is the man himself. The more messy you make it, the more you get to the king.”

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“The only organizing principle is the man himself.” @Pete Buttigieg on how Trump exploits chaos and an absence of accountability to consolidate power. #TheWeeklyShow #politics

♬ original sound – The Weekly Show Podcast

He called it a “terrible way to make policy” and “terribly unfair,” slamming the lack of accountability that comes with governing by personality rather than facts.

“If you think you can just beat your chest and say it’s all fake news, then why bother checking your math or confirming your targets before implementing policy?” he said.

On the Signal Scandal: “Highest Level of Foul-Up Imaginable”

Buttigieg also weighed in on reports that Trump-era officials coordinated military activity in an unsecured Signal group chat—and accidentally included a journalist.

“These people cannot keep America safe,” he wrote in a viral Instagram post earlier this week. On Stewart’s podcast, he elaborated: “They sent battle plans to the wrong guy on the wrong text app… then they slap a tariff on an island with penguins.”

 

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“These screwups don’t lead to introspection. That’s what’s terrifying.”

Looking Ahead—But Not Ruling Out a Return

Now back in Michigan, Buttigieg is spending more time navigating twin toddler tantrums than policy briefings—but speculation about his political future remains.

He has publicly declined to run for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat or the governor’s race, sparking questions about a possible 2028 presidential bid.

In the meantime, he’s stopping by construction projects funded during his time as Secretary of Transportation and enjoying a slower pace—beard and all.

“But all of us are still very, very alarmed about what’s happening in the country,” he said. “You can’t tune it out.”

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