Actor Tom Felton didn’t take the bait when a reporter asked him about the controversy over JK Rowling taking a stand against radical trans activists. 
The 37-year-old celeb, who played the villain Draco Malfoy in the successful “Harry Potter” film franchise and will reprise the role for the upcoming Broadway production, was asked about the matter Sunday night at the Tony Awards. When a Variety reporter asked Felton if Rowling’s views affected him or his work, he rejected the suggestion and reiterated his support for Rowling.
&#8220;No, I can&#8217;t say it does. I&#8217;m not really that attuned to it,” the British star said. 
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&#8220;The only thing I always remind myself is that I&#8217;ve been lucky enough to travel the world. Here I am in New York,&#8221; he continued. &#8220;And I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter, and she&#8217;s responsible for that. So I&#8217;m incredibly grateful.&#8221;
Over the past five years, Rowling has faced scorn in the media and among former fans for taking the position that sex and gender are determined by biology. Most “Harry Potter” actors <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/j-k-rowling-vs-the-trans-agenda-heres-what-harry-potter-cast-members-have-said-about-the-ongoing-battle">denounced her position</a> and distanced themselves from the billionaire author, but several have come to her defense.
It all started in 2020 with a series of viral tweets from Rowling stating her position. “If sex isn’t real, there’s no same-sex attraction. If sex isn’t real, the lived reality of women globally is erased. I know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives. It isn’t hate to speak the truth,” she wrote in part at the time.
British star Daniel Radcliffe, who played the main character Harry Potter in the film series, wrote an essay for The Trevor Project, an LGBTQ-focused nonprofit, in the wake of Rowling’s viral tweets. 
“I firmly stand with the trans community,” Rupert Grint, the actor who played Ron Weasley, said in a statement at the time. 
“Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned or told they aren’t who they say they are,” Emma Watson, who played Hermione, shared on Twitter in June 2020.
“Fantastic Beasts” star Eddie Redmayne said he was pro-trans rights, but also noted that critics were being way too hard on Rowling, calling the online backlash “absolutely disgusting.”
Actor Ralph Fiennes, who plays Lord Voldemort in the “Harry Potter” franchise, has been one of Rowling’s staunchest defenders.
“I can’t understand the vitriol directed at her,” Fiennes said in a March 2021 interview. “I can understand the heat of an argument, but I find this age of accusation and the need to condemn irrational. I find the level of hatred that people express about views that differ from theirs, and the violence of language toward others, disturbing.”
Robbie Coltrane, who played Hagrid in the “Harry Potter” movies, also came to Rowling’s defense prior to his death in October 2022.
“I don’t think what she said was offensive, really,” he told Radio Times in 2020. “I don’t know why, but there’s a whole Twitter generation of people who hang around waiting to be offended. They wouldn’t have won the war, would they?”

Tom Felton

‘Harry Potter’ Actor Shoots Down Reporter Goading Him To Badmouth JK Rowling

'Harry Potter' Actor Shoots Down Reporter Goading Him To Badmouth JK Rowling

Celebrities

Entertainment

Harry Potter

JK Rowling

Transgender

World

Tom Cruise may be in his 60s, but the action star was still able to set a Guinness World Record while filming a stunt for “Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning.”
The organization announced this week that Cruise had been awarded the title for &#8220;most burning parachute jumps by an individual,&#8221; citing the 16 times the A-lister &#8220;leapt out of a helicopter&#8230;while strapped to a parachute pre-soaked in fuel and lit ablaze.&#8221;
The flaming parachute could only burn for seconds before Cruise, known for performing his own stunts, had to cut it away and deploy a backup, as <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tom-cruise-guinness-world-record-mission-impossible-flaming-parachute-stunt/#:~:text=Tom%20Cruise%20has%20become%20a,said%20in%20a%20news%20release.">CBS News</a> reported. The actor would also hold a 50-pound camera for some of the jumps.
&#8220;Tom doesn&#8217;t just play action heroes — he is an action hero!&#8221; Craig Glenday, editor-in-chief of Guinness World Records, said of the stunt. &#8220;A large part of his success can be chalked up to his absolute focus on authenticity and pushing the boundaries of what a leading man can do. It&#8217;s an honor to be able to recognize his utter fearlessness with this new Guinness World Records title.&#8221;
Cruise posted a clip of some of the jumps on social media. “If this is twisted while it’s burning, I’m going to be spinning and burning. I have to kick out of the twist and then ignite in 10 seconds,” Cruise can be heard saying before jumping. “We’re going to be real smart. I’m not saying be risky. We don’t take risks, obviously.”
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Light the fuse. <a href="https://t.co/X1i1w70VOX">pic.twitter.com/X1i1w70VOX</a>
&mdash; Tom Cruise (@TomCruise) <a href="https://twitter.com/TomCruise/status/1930682304894239114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
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“Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning” had a strong Memorial Day Weekend debut and has grossed $390 million at the worldwide box office. This gave the movie business a much-needed boost after a sluggish start to the year.
“This weekend was one for the history books!” Cruise wrote in a note he shared with followers after the debut. “Congratulations and thank you to every filmmaker, every artist, every crew member and every single person who works at the studios.”
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“To every theater and every employee who helps bring these stories to audiences, thank you,” the message continued.  “To everyone that works at Paramount Pictures and Skydance, thank you for your many years of partnership and unwavering support. And most of all, THANK YOU to audiences everywhere for whom we all serve and for whom we all LOVE to entertain. Sincerely, Tom.”
Cruise had previously discussed doing “physically punishing” stunts during filming. One involved him breathing in his own carbon monoxide during an underwater submarine scene.
“You have to overcome all of that while you’re doing it, and be present,” he said during a February interview with Empire, as The Daily Wire previously <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/tom-cruise-opens-up-about-physically-punishing-stunt-for-upcoming-film">reported</a>.
Cruise also discussed an action sequence on the outside of a biplane, saying he passed out multiple times while filming it.
“When you stick your face out [of an airplane], going over 120 to 130 miles an hour, you’re not getting oxygen,” the Hollywood star said. “So I had to train myself how to breathe. There were times I would pass out physically; I was unable to get back into the cockpit.”

Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise Sets Random Guinness World Record With ‘Mission: Impossible’ Stunt

Tom Cruise Earns Guinness World Record While Filming 'Mission: Impossible 8' 

Hollywood

Mission Impossible

Movies

U.S.

The cause of death for beloved “Cheers” actor George Wendt has been revealed as cardiac arrest, according to a death certificate obtained by <a href="https://www.tmz.com/2025/06/05/george-wendt-cause-of-death/#continued">TMZ</a>.
The outlet noted that the certificate from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health lists cardiac arrest, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, and hypertension as underlying causes. Other contributing conditions listed include end-stage renal disease or kidney failure, and hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol).
Wendt died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 76 on May 20, as The Daily Wire previously <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/beloved-cheers-actor-george-wendt-dies-at-76">reported</a>. 
“Beloved actor and comedian, George Wendt, best known for starring in the NBC hit comedy ‘Cheers,’ has passed away,” a statement from his rep said. 
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“George’s family confirmed the news of his death early Tuesday morning, announcing he died peacefully in his sleep while at home,” it continued. “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”
The actor hailed from Chicago and got his start with the famed improv comedy troupe Second City, also the launchpad for famous names like Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, John Candy, Steve Carell, Bill Murray, Chris Farley, and a host of others.
Wendt also appeared on “Saturday Night Live,” including his recurring role as Bob Swerski in the “Chicago Superfans” sketches. 
His movie acting credits include “Dreamscape” (1984), “House” (1985), “Fletch” (1985), “Gung Ho” (1986), “Plain Clothes” (1987), “Never Say Die” (1988), “Guilty by Suspicion” (1991), “Forever Young” (1992), and “Spice World” (1997).
Besides “Cheers,” Wendt’s TV appearances include “Seinfeld,” “The Simpsons,” “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” “Hot in Cleveland,” “Portlandia,” and “Fresh Off the Boat.” He had a self-titled show in 1995 that was canceled after one season. 
Wendt received Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for six consecutive years for “Cheers,” and though he never won, the role is beloved by fans to this day.

George Wendt

Cause Of Death Revealed For ‘Cheers’ Star George Wendt

Cause Of Death Revealed For 'Cheers' Star George Wendt

Death

Television

San Antonio Police Chief William McManus walked back statements he previously made about his department finding “no evidence whatsoever” that actor Jonathan Joss’ death was a hate crime.
Social media and mainstream media lit up following the death of the “King of the Hill” voice actor on Sunday. At first, news reports were saying that the Texas native was shot following a dispute with his neighbor. Soon after, a man claiming to be Joss’ husband said Joss was really the victim of anti-LGBT bigotry.
While San Antonio police originally ruled out a hate crime, now McManus is walking back those statements. “That was way, way, way premature,” he <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SanAntonioPD/videos/1356101808802458/">said</a> during a Thursday press conference. “Shouldn’t have done it. It was way too soon before we had any real information, and I will own that and simply say, again, that we shouldn&#8217;t have done that. It was way too early in the process for any statement of that nature to be issued.”
“We understand that many in the LGBTQ+ community are feeling anxious and concerned,” he continued. “A lot of it has to do with that premature statement that we released, and again, I own that, shouldn&#8217;t have done it. The loss of Jonathan Joss was tragic and most, most heavily felt by the LGBTQ+ community.”
Just two days earlier on June 3, the SAPD said that they “thoroughly reviewed all available information” and said there was no reason to believe Joss’ death “was related to his sexual orientation.”
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As some people have pointed out, the post from Joss’ alleged husband following the incident is full of extreme, unsubstantiated accusations, including one about angry neighbors burning down their home several months ago. But <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/lgbt-activists-have-found-their-next-hate-crime-hoax-and-its-the-most-insane-one-yet">news reports</a> from the time state that Joss admitted to using a propane heater, which may have caused the fire.
According to a report from local station WFAA, Joss also had a long history of getting into altercations with his neighbors and was reported to have been causing a disturbance on the night he was killed.
“Neighbors [said that Joss] was at the site Sunday night checking his mail, which he did regularly, when something went terribly wrong. A video shared by a neighbor who was present shows a man, who they identified as Joss, pacing up and down the street with a pitchfork and screaming,” the outlet reported.
It went on, “The neighbors say it was common behavior over the years for Joss to scream while carrying weapons, and even though they say they didn’t like it, several neighbors said they were surprised when a man who lives just 50 yards away responded to the situation with a gun around 6 p.m. Sunday.”
One person claiming to be a neighbor of Joss posted on Facebook saying the voice actor “started gun fights constantly” and “constantly threatened his surrounding neighbors.”
Footage of Joss behaving aggressively at an event for the &#8220;King of the Hill&#8221; revival two days before his death also started circulating online. The voice actor had to be escorted from the premises by security.
Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez, 56, who is described as a former neighbor of Joss, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. His is currently under house arrest on $200,000 bond.

Johnathan Joss

San Antonio Police Chief Walks Back Statement That Jonathon Joss’ Murder Wasn’t A Hate Crime

San Antonio Police Chief Walks Back Statement That Jonathon Joss' Murder Wasn't A Hate Crime

Crime

Hate Crime

LGBTQ

Murder

San Antonio

Anyone who relished 1978’s “Superman: The Movie” winced over the saga’s fourth installment, 1987’s “The Quest for Peace.”
That didn’t erase the mark Christopher Reeve left on the Man of Steel and pop culture writ large. Iconic. Then and now.
<div id="attachment_930427" style="width: 471px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-930427" class="size-large wp-image-930427" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-166979319-461x576.jpg" alt="Superman, played by American actor Christopher Reeve (1952 - 2004), holds a green crystal at the Fortress of Solitude, in a promotional still from 'Superman', directed by Richard Donner, 1978. (Photo by Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images)" width="461" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-166979319-461x576.jpg 461w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-166979319-240x300.jpg 240w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-166979319-768x960.jpg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-166979319.jpg 819w" sizes="(max-width: 461px) 100vw, 461px" />Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images</div>
So, after Marvel’s “Iron Man” blew the doors off the box office in 2008 and ignited Hollywood’s new superhero craze, it made sense to bring the DC Comics hero back to theaters.
He’s arguably the most recognizable hero in the men in tights genre, dating back to the late 1930s. So why can’t the industry get Superman right?
Here’s hoping director James Gunn does just that with the latest “Superman.” The summer’s most anticipated release casts relative newcomer David Corenswet (“Twisters”) as the Krypton native. Early <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhUht6vAsMY">trailers</a> suggest a lighter tone and emphasis on humor as much as rock ‘em, sock ‘em action.
<div id="attachment_930429" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-930429" class="size-large wp-image-930429" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/MixCollage-06-Jun-2025-11-20-AM-503-1024x576.jpg" alt="David Corenswet. &quot;Superman&quot; 2025. Photo by Courtesy of Warner Bros. Copyright: Warner Bros." width="1024" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/MixCollage-06-Jun-2025-11-20-AM-503-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/MixCollage-06-Jun-2025-11-20-AM-503-300x169.jpg 300w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/MixCollage-06-Jun-2025-11-20-AM-503-768x432.jpg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/MixCollage-06-Jun-2025-11-20-AM-503-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/MixCollage-06-Jun-2025-11-20-AM-503-2048x1152.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Photo by Courtesy of Warner Bros. Copyright: Warner Bros.</div>
Why is it so hard to make the Man of Steel as popular as the Hulk or Thor on movie screens? 
We’ve had endless small-screen Supermen, from George Reeves’ ‘50s era here to Dean Cain in the rom-com-ish ‘90s series “Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman.”
The first major attempt at Superman came two years before Robert Downey, Jr. kick-started the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The 2006 film “Superman Returns” deployed a Reeve doppelganger (Brandon Routh) but underwhelmed at the box office.
Something was missing, and not just the “American Way.” The film ditched the hero’s signature phrase, “Truth, Justice and the American Way” to placate foreign audiences or the industry’s Left-leaning sensibilities.
By the time Warner Bros. hired Henry Cavill to play Clark Kent the superhero craze was in full swing, but this wasn’t your father’s Superman. Cavill’s “Man of Steel” (2013) was conflicted, a far cry from Reeve’s Boy Scout persona. Even the legendary suit’s colors were muted, a darker shade to reflect his inner turmoil.
<div id="attachment_930431" style="width: 812px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-930431" class="size-large wp-image-930431" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-171517650-802x576.jpg" alt="SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 25: (EUROPE AND AUSTRALASIA OUT) British actor Henry Cavill poses during a photo shoot on June 25, 2013 in Sydney, Australia. Cavill is in Australia to promote his new superman film 'Man of Steel'. (Photo by Chris Pavlich/Newspix/Getty Images)" width="802" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-171517650-802x576.jpg 802w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-171517650-300x215.jpg 300w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-171517650-768x551.jpg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-171517650.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 802px) 100vw, 802px" />Chris Pavlich/Newspix/Getty Images</div>
The film made millions, but it didn’t rock the culture like Reeve did in the late 1970s nor did it generate a direct sequel. Cavill starred in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” (2016) and “Justice League” (2017).
Cavill made a Superman cameo in the 2022 disappointment “Black Adam” before learning he was out of the DCEU (DC Extended Universe).
It’s not surprising that Hollywood has struggled to make Superman “Superman.” Antiheroes are all the rage in Tinsel Town, from Tony Soprano to the misfit warriors of “Thunderbolts*” and two “Suicide Squad” films.
It’s hard to make a Boy Scout-like hero pop off the screen in our cynical age. The writing must be rich and detailed, showcasing layers that make the “aw, shucks” heroism matter. Antiheroes offer far more shades of gray and opportunities to grab our attention. That’s what Walter White did for five mesmerizing seasons of “Breaking Bad.”
“Say my name!”
Goody two-shoes characters aren’t hip in the eyes of many screenwriters. White hat heroes need not apply. How many recent films have glorified hit men, paid assassins who serve as judge, jury and executioner? The “John Wick” saga is the tip of that morally dubious iceberg.
So where does that leave this summer’s Superman reboot?
It’s Gunn’s baby, through and through. The veteran writer/director is in charge of the DCEU’s reboot, and this is his coming-out party after working with the MCU on the “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy.
<div id="attachment_930433" style="width: 879px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-930433" class="size-large wp-image-930433" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2179646001-869x576.jpg" alt="NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 19: James Gunn speaks at the DC Studios Creature Commandos panel during New York Comic Con 2024 at The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on October 19, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for ReedPop)" width="869" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2179646001-869x576.jpg 869w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2179646001-300x199.jpg 300w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2179646001-768x509.jpg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2179646001.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 869px) 100vw, 869px" />Craig Barritt/Getty Images for ReedPop</div>
Gunn brings a quirky sense of humor to his work, but he’s hardly a traditionalist. He also has a dark side. He previously got canceled in 2018 for resurfaced <a href="https://deadline.com/2018/07/james-gunn-fired-guardians-of-the-galaxy-disney-offensive-tweets-1202430392/">pedophilia and rape jokes</a> on Twitter. Disney later had a change of heart and hired him to helm the third film in the “Guardians” saga.
<a href="https://www.indiewire.com/features/general/james-gunn-donald-trump-dick-joke-twitter-james-mangold-1201908489/">Gunn also blasted then-President Trump</a>, a common pose in his field.
The Daily Wire’s Ben Shapiro, no fan of Gunn’s work, has <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbefouUAF2w">low expectations</a> for the new reboot after reviewing the trailer. “Two thumbs down.”
A recent revelation suggests Hollywood didn’t learn from its past mistakes. Official “Superman” movie merchandise drops the “American Way” phrase once more in favor of “<a href="https://cosmicbook.news/james-gunn-superman-ditches-the-american-way">the human way.”</a>
Yet the director <a href="https://thescreenbrief.com/james-gunn-interview-superman-teaser-press-launch/">spoke to the character’s innate goodness</a> in a late 2024 interview that suggests a Reeve-like take on the material. 
“We can expect a Superman who is about the compassion of the human spirit, a Superman who is about kindness, love and compassion, while also being a very strong character. He is the best of humanity, even though he is an alien from outer space.”
Maybe Gunn will rise to the cultural occasion. We could use a unifying hero like Superman at this point in American culture. We’re at each other’s throats over political differences, egged on by social media platforms that feast on conflict.
<div id="attachment_930443" style="width: 874px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-930443" class="size-large wp-image-930443" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2172998627-864x576.jpg" alt="NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 18: (L-R) Peter Safran, Co-Chairman &amp; CEO, DC Studios, David Corenswet and James Gunn, Co-Chairman &amp; CEO, DC Studios attend &quot;Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story&quot; New York Premiere at Museum of Modern Art on September 18, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)" width="864" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2172998627-864x576.jpg 864w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2172998627-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2172998627-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/06/GettyImages-2172998627.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 864px) 100vw, 864px" />Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images</div>
Superman isn’t Right or Left, although his Midwest upbringing suggests he’d call the former camp home. Still, Reeve’s Superman never became a culture war talking point. His chaste pursuit of Margot Kidder’s Lois Land was PG-rated perfection. He’s true to his word and lives to save cats stuck in trees.
That’s all for the good.
Gunn teased Superman’s core strength as a character in the aforementioned interview, another tease that he might be channeling the Reeve model.
“[He’s ]this symbol of really old-fashioned values and hope, and it’s an idea that’s been a bit battered over the years.”
Gunn is no conservative, but he may realize “Superman” needs heartland values to connect with the character’s past … and the franchise’s future. That’s assuming he still has one.
* * *
Christian Toto is an award-winning journalist, movie critic and editor of <a href="https://www.hollywoodintoto.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HollywoodInToto.com</a>. He previously served as associate editor with Breitbart News’ Big Hollywood. Follow him at <a href="https://www.hollywoodintoto.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HollywoodInToto.com</a>.
The views expressed in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Daily Wire.
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Auction Of Superman Suit In Melbourne – Preview

Why Can’t Hollywood Get Superman Right?

Comics

DC Studios

Marvel

Superman

Warner Bros

According to a Reuters <a href="https://archive.is/lUgfe">report</a>, Disney is preparing to conduct mass layoffs that will affect hundreds of employees across various departments, including film and TV, publicity, casting, development, and corporate finance.
Reps for the entertainment company have declined to comment, and no exact numbers have been released yet.
This is just the latest in a series of layoffs over recent years. Disney laid off nearly 200 television and ABC News operations employees earlier this year after cutting ABC News and local station staff in October. In September 2024, an additional 300 people were let go, per <a href="https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/disney-mass-layoffs-tv-film-finance-departments-1236415786/">Variety</a>.
Disney cut 7,000 jobs in 2023 alone as it tried to save $5.5 billion in costs, Reuters reported.
During layoffs in 2023, company CEO Bob Iger said, “There will no doubt be challenges ahead as we continue building the structures and functions that will enable us to be successful moving forward.”
“In tough moments, we must always do what is required to ensure Disney can continue delivering exceptional entertainment to audiences and guests around the world, now, and long into the future,” he <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/disney-will-begin-mass-layoffs-this-week-ceo-announces">continued</a>.
Critics are quick to point out that Disney has had several big-budget flops recently, including the latest disaster, “Snow White.” The live-action remake is estimated to have cost the company approximately $115 million, based on a $410 million budget, including marketing, but it only earned a worldwide box office gross of $194.7 million. 
The film had multiple controversies, including a total change to the storyline and controversial statements made by Rachel Zegler, the actress playing the titular role. 
Many fans blame Disney’s downfall on increasingly leftist messaging, which Iger addressed during a shareholder meeting last April. When asked about Disney&#8217;s &#8220;wokeness,&#8221; the exec <a href="https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/disney-bob-iger-slams-ron-desantis-disney-florida-1235571743/">replied</a>, &#8220;I&#8217;m sensitive to that.&#8221;
&#8220;Our primary mission needs to be to entertain and then through our entertainment to continue to have a positive impact on the world. And I&#8217;m very serious about that. It should not be agenda-driven,&#8221; Iger added.

Disney

Disney Layoffs Will Affect Hundreds Of Employees In TV, Film, Corporate Finance: Report

Business

Economy

layoffs

The Kennedy Center kicked off June by continuing on their mission of offering family friendly content for visitors of all ages. The Washington, D.C.-based entertainment venue debuted the Angel Studios hit film, “The King of Kings,” on June 1.
“This animated film is the perfect family experience, and we are thrilled to bring a special viewing to the Kennedy Center,&#8221; Ambassador Richard Grenell, President of The John F. Kennedy Center, said in a <a href="https://www.angel.com/press/release/the-kennedy-center-to-host-free-screening-of-the-animated-film-the-king-of">press release</a>. “When I saw the advertising campaign for ‘The King of Kings,’ I immediately knew we needed to have it come to the Kennedy Center. Coincidentally, I was asked to be on a panel with the CEO of Angel Studios, so I cornered him. This is family-friendly programming that we will be doing more of in the future.”
Jordan Harmon, President of Angel distribution company, added, “The success of the film proves that when you give the audience the power to choose, they’ll elevate stories that matter and that will amplify light to families around the globe. The Kennedy Center has the pulse on art and entertainment that is impacting our culture, and to see this film celebrated there is a victory for faith, family, and the future of storytelling.”
Both shows were completely sold out and the on-site prayer wall was totally full, a rep from the Center confirmed with The Daily Wire. The theater included people of all ages and from all backgrounds applauding the animated film about the life of Jesus.
As of May 22, “The King of Kings” has grossed a total of $66.9 million worldwide, making it one of the most successful bible-based films in history.
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A synopsis of the film says, “A father tells his son the greatest story ever told, and what begins as a bedtime tale becomes a life-changing journey. Through vivid imagination, the boy walks alongside Jesus, witnessing His miracles, facing His trials, and understanding His ultimate sacrifice. The King of Kings invites us to rediscover the enduring power of hope, love, and redemption through the eyes of a child.”
Film critics and theatergoers were both effusive with their praise of the film. It currently has a 97% audience score on <a href="https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_king_of_kings">Rotten Tomatoes</a>.
Trump made headlines earlier this year when he promised to reform the Kennedy Center, which began when he replaced its board and was elected chairman. Trump also tapped Special Envoy Richard Grenell to serve as the Center’s president.
“At my direction, we are going to make the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., GREAT AGAIN,” Trump wrote in February. “Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our youth — THIS WILL STOP.”

The King of Kings

The Kennedy Center Kicks Off June With Sold Out Showings Of ‘The King Of Kings’

The Kennedy Center Kicks Off June With Sold Out Showings Of 'The King Of Kings'

The Kennedy Center

Washington D.C.

Voice actor Jonathan Joss, best known for portraying the voice of John Redcorn on the long-running animated comedy “King of the Hill,” died from a fatal gunshot wound in San Antonio on Sunday night. He was 59 at the time of his death.
According to early reports, Joss died after getting into a fight with his neighbor, who allegedly then pulled out a gun and shot him several times, per <a href="https://www.tmz.com/2025/06/02/king-of-the-hill-jonathan-joss-dead-shot-san-antonio-texas-voice-actor/">TMZ</a>. The gunman is then reported to have gotten into a vehicle and fled the scene.
San Antonio police confirmed that the suspect was captured a block from the scene of the accident. Officers detained 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Cejam, who has been booked for murder. The investigation is ongoing.
The paramedics responded and tried to revive Joss, but they were ultimately unsuccessful, the outlet noted.
<a href="https://get.dailywire.com/subscribe/plus/?utm_medium=website&amp;utm_source=editorial&amp;utm_campaign=memorial&amp;utm_content=editorialmemorialday&amp;_gl=1*1qdq03s*_gcl_au*MTYyNDg0MTE0OS4xNzQxODk4NTMz*_ga*MTEzOTk1NjkxNi4xNzI2MzI1MDQz*_ga_CZKR9ZYKJP*czE3NDgzNzg2NDgkbzEwMDMkZzEkdDE3NDgzODEwMTckajU4JGwwJGgw" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get 40% Off New DailyWire+ Annual Memberships</a>
The actor’s death occurred just two days after he attended the 2025 ATX TV Festival in Austin, Texas, with other “King of the Hill” cast members. Joss last shared an Instagram post of himself walking around Austin and noting how the show’s “reboot is up and moving,” as People <a href="https://people.com/king-of-the-hill-voice-actor-jonathan-joss-dies-at-59-after-being-fatally-shot-police-11746467">noted</a>.
Joss took over for the original actor, Victor Arron, for season 3 of the series after Arron died in a car accident in 1996.
The “King of the Hill” reboot is slated to premiere on Hulu in August and had already started recording, the outlet noted.
Joss also appeared in other popular shows such as “Parks and Recreation,” “Tulsa King,” “Ray Donovan,” “True Grit,” “The Magnificent Seven,” and others.

‘King Of The Hill’ Voice Actor Shot, Killed Following Dispute With Neighbor

'King Of The Hill' Voice Actor Shot, Killed Following Dispute With Neighbor

Animation

Texas

Rapper 50 Cent said he would talk to President Donald Trump about the Sean “Diddy” Combs case after Trump did not rule out an executive pardon last week.
The recording artist, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, posted about the situation on his Instagram Reels on Friday. “He said some really bad things about Trump, it’s not ok. I’m gonna reach out so he knows how I feel about this guy,” Jackson wrote, per <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/06/01/us-news/50-cent-vows-to-dissuade-trump-from-potential-diddy-pardon/">the New York Post</a>. 
“Donald doesn’t take well to disrespect, and doesn’t forget who chooses to go against him,” the rapper added in a follow-up.
“While working tirelessly to make America great again, there is no room for distraction. He would consider pardoning anyone who was being mistreated, not Puffy Daddy,” Jackson said.
The “In Da Club” rapper also shared a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DKXRpnotQ0P/">screenshot</a> of an article claiming he was trying to &#8220;nuke&#8221; Combs&#8217; chances of pardon. &#8220;I didn&#8217;t say I would nuke anything, I simply said I will make sure Trump is aware,&#8221; Jackson wrote in the image caption.
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Combs, 55, has been held without bail since his September arrest on federal sex trafficking and racketeering charges. If convicted, the Bad Boy Records founder could face life in prison.
Trump indicated that a pardon for Combs isn’t off the table during an Oval Office press conference alongside Elon Musk on Friday. 
“Nobody’s asked. But I know people are thinking about it. I know they’re thinking about it. I think some people have been very close to asking,” the president said in response to Fox News White House correspondent Peter Doocy, as The Daily Wire previously <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/trump-asked-about-potential-pardon-for-diddy">reported</a>.
Trump said he hasn’t been following the case closely, but was aware how much attention it was getting in the news.
“I haven’t seen him, I haven’t spoken to him in years,” Trump added of Combs. “He used to really like me a lot, but I think when I ran for politics … that relationship busted up, from what I read. I don’t know — he didn’t tell me that, but I’d read some little bit nasty statements.”
“I would certainly look at the facts. If I think somebody was mistreated, whether they like me or don’t like me, it wouldn’t have any impact on me,” he added.
Nathan Gay contributed to this report.

50 Cent

50 Cent Says He Will ‘Reach Out’ To Discourage Trump From Pardoning Diddy

50 Cent Says He Will 'Reach Out' To Discourage Trump From Pardoning Diddy 

Donald Trump

Pardon

Sean 'Diddy' Combs

Many people, even the <a href="https://njmonthly.com/articles/news/remembering-ronald-reagans-1984-visit-to-nj-and-his-born-in-the-usa-blunder/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">President of the United States</a>, misread Bruce Springsteen’s most iconic tune.
“Born in the U.S.A.” wasn’t a rah-rah anthem but a Vietnam War smackdown.
No one is misreading The Boss’ political leanings today. Springsteen’s European tour finds the rocker trashing President Donald Trump like a Stephen Colbert monologue.
There’s only one problem. Springsteen squandered his moral authority over the past decade, and it’s not coming back. He’s far from alone in hard-rock circles.
<div id="attachment_927311" style="width: 682px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-927311" class="size-large wp-image-927311" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2215117217-672x576.jpg" alt="MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 14: Bruce Springsteen performs during the first night of his 'The Land of Hopes and Dreams' tour at Co-op Live on May 14, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Shirlaine Forrest/Getty Images)" width="672" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2215117217-672x576.jpg 672w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2215117217-300x257.jpg 300w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2215117217-768x659.jpg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2215117217.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 672px) 100vw, 672px" />Shirlaine Forrest/Getty Images</div>
Springsteen made waves with his recent <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/nobody-cares-bruce-springsteen-mocked-for-tirade-against-trump?author=Amanda+Harding&amp;category=News&amp;elementPosition=undefined&amp;row=0&amp;rowType=Vertical+List&amp;title=%E2%80%98Nobody+Cares%E2%80%99%3A+Bruce+Springsteen+Mocked+For+Tirade+Against+Trump">on-stage Trump tirade</a>, a May 14 rant that swiftly went viral. So much for Norms – bashing America overseas is typically frowned upon.
<blockquote>In my home, the America I love, the America I’ve written about, that has been a beacon of hope and liberty for 250 years, is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent and treasonous administration. Tonight, we ask all who believe in democracy and the best of our American experiment to rise with us, raise your voices against authoritarianism and let freedom ring!</blockquote>
The comments came during the media maelstrom regarding Trump’s predecessor, the 80-something president whose cognitive decline made him woefully unfit for the gig.
Yet Springsteen didn’t say a word, at least publicly, about President Joe Biden’s mental state. The Boss supported Biden’s 2020 presidential run and similarly backed Vice President Kamala Harris last year. The rock icon kept mum about what every fair-thinking American saw over the last four years.
Gaffe after gaffe. Video after video. The sad proof was there before our collective eyes.
Nor did he condemn Harris for hiding Biden’s mental fog. She worked side-by-side with Biden and sang from the “Sharp as a Tack” hymnal, yet Springsteen never pressed her on the matter in song or on a concert stage.
<div id="attachment_927325" style="width: 859px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-927325" class="size-large wp-image-927325" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2181620062-849x576.jpg" alt="PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 28: Singer Bruce Springsteen performs before former U.S. President Barack Obama speaks during a campaign rally in support of Democratic presidential nominee, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris at Temple University October 28 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Voters in the United States will cast their ballots on November 5, 2024. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)" width="849" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2181620062-849x576.jpg 849w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2181620062-300x204.jpg 300w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2181620062-768x521.jpg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2181620062.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px" />Win McNamee/Getty Images</div>
His silence wasn’t isolated to that terrible issue. Springsteen stayed mum during the Twitter Files scandal, Team Biden’s attempts to curb pandemic critics and Cancel Culture’s impact on the First Amendment.
He didn’t speak up for author Jeanine Cummins, aggressively canceled for writing a book (“American Dirt”) from a different culture than her own. The Boss didn’t rage against sensitivity readers or the scolds who censored books by literary giants like Roald Dahl and Agatha Christie.
You’d think an artist of his caliber would have had their backs, even if they worked in different media. Not Springsteen.
A true blue-collar troubadour wouldn’t let partisanship get in the way of the truth. Heck, the old Springsteen might have penned an ode to <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/laken-rileys-alleged-illegal-immigrant-killer-was-flown-to-georgia-on-taxpayer-dime">Laken Riley</a>, the young woman killed by an illegal immigrant in 2024.
This version? Not a chance.
The New Jersey legend refused to stand up to longtime fans alarmed at his sky-high ticket prices. He put his blue collar bona fides on a shelf and said <a href="https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/bruce-springsteen-covers-lp-fan-outrage-ticket-prices-1234632658/">he was worth the price of admission.</a>
Some Everyman.
Recently, two well-known rockers rode to Springsteen’s defense. Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder has backed The Boss on stage, covering the singer’s “My City of Ruins” and blasting Trump from his <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/eddie-vedder-trump-bruce-springsteen-2074454">concert soap box</a>.
<blockquote>Part of free speech is open discussion, part of democracy is healthy public discourse. The name calling is so beneath us. Bruce has always been a true American with his values of freedom and liberty and his justice has always remained intact…This freedom to speak will still exist in another year or two when we come back to this microphone.</blockquote>
Like Springsteen, Vedder stood down during the relentless attacks on free speech over the past decade. He said nothing about Cancel Culture, of fellow artists forced to grovel for forgiveness for past jokes and comments.
Nothing.
<div id="attachment_927327" style="width: 874px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-927327" class="size-large wp-image-927327" src="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2213288519-864x576.jpg" alt="NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - MAY 03: Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam performs during 2025 New Orleans Jazz &amp; Heritage Festival at Fair Grounds Race Course on May 03, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images)" width="864" height="576" srcset="https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2213288519-864x576.jpg 864w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2213288519-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2213288519-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dw-wp-production.imgix.net/2025/05/GettyImages-2213288519.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 864px) 100vw, 864px" />Erika Goldring/Getty Images</div>
That goes double for Tom Morello. The Rage Against the Machine singer joined his fellow, far-Left rockers in <a href="https://thehill.com/blogs/in-the-know/5320025-rage-against-the-machine-tom-morello-trump-bruce-springsteen/">blasting Trump and backing The Boss</a>.
<blockquote>Bruce is going after Trump because Bruce, his whole life, he’s been about truth, justice, democracy, equality … And Trump is mad at him because Bruce draws a bigger audience. F— that guy!</blockquote>
And let’s not forget their collective silence on one of the biggest news stories of the past decade. Neither Springsteen, Vedder or Morello publicly spoke out against the Oct. 7 atrocities, the ongoing hostage crisis or the 2023 Nova Music Festival massacre.
The latter should have been a moment for musicians from all genres to sing in one voice against an attack that hit so close to home. U2’s Bono <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/music/2023/oct/10/u2-changes-lyrics-song-pride-israeli-music-festival-supernova">briefly spoke out</a> against the Nova massacre, as did <a href="https://nypost.com/2023/10/09/attack-on-israel-exposes-cowardice-of-social-media-celebs/">Madonna</a>.
The aforementioned rockers stayed silent.
And where are the pleas for Hamas to release the hostages held captive for more than a year? How hard is it to share that message?
John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting fame has just done that, almost nonstop, since Oct. 7. He’s put politics aside to pen songs tied to the Ukraine War, the Hamas barbarism and more.
His chilling anthem “OK (We Are Not OK),” a reaction to the Oct. 7 atrocities, is a must listen.
We may disagree on the power of celebrity messaging, but Ondrasik’s moral authority remains strong. What a shame Springsteen and friends can’t say the same.
* * *
Christian Toto is an award-winning journalist, movie critic and editor of <a href="https://www.hollywoodintoto.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HollywoodInToto.com</a>. He previously served as associate editor with Breitbart News’ Big Hollywood. Follow him at <a href="https://www.hollywoodintoto.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HollywoodInToto.com</a>.
The views expressed in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Daily Wire.

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The “Sex and the City” spinoff Max series “And Just Like That” is getting some negative reactions from a storyline it added featuring Rosie O’Donnell playing a nun named Mary who loses her virginity to Miranda (Cynthia Nixon).
The episode “Outlook Good,” which premiered on Thursday, included the story of Miranda meeting a tourist named Mary (O’Donnell) at a lesbian bar in New York City. The women decide to head to Mary’s hotel room to engage in sexual activities, per <a href="https://people.com/and-just-like-that-rosie-odonnell-plays-a-virgin-nun-season-3-premiere-11743506">People</a>. 
Mary told Miranda she’s &#8220;amazing.&#8221; 
&#8220;I&#8217;ve never experienced anything like that,&#8221; Mary said. &#8220;Oh, you are really, really something. It felt so, I don&#8217;t know, electric, and yet, still so natural,&#8221; she continued. &#8220;I never dreamed my first time could be both those things.&#8221; 
&#8220;First time?&#8221; Miranda asked. &#8220;So then, this was your first time with a woman?&#8221;
&#8220;This is my first time with anyone. I&#8217;m a virgin. Well, I was a virgin,&#8221; Mary said before revealing that she’s a nun.
Later, Miranda recalls what happened while discussing the incident with her friend Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker). 
&#8220;In my defense, Mary never mentioned she was a nun. And she was dressed like a regular lesbian… In fact, she didn&#8217;t mention it until right after she told me she was a virgin,&#8221; Miranda said. 
&#8220;So, you deflowered the Virgin Mary?&#8221; Carrie joked.
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Miranda spent the rest of the episode trying to avoid Mary, who kept trying to contact her. Finally, she said, &#8220;So, I gather you&#8217;re at the beginning of a new journey, and I know how that is because I just got off a crazy chapter myself. But don&#8217;t do anything solely based on what you&#8217;re feeling right now.&#8221; 
&#8220;Don&#8217;t leave God for me,&#8221; Miranda said, to which Mary replied, &#8220;Miranda, I would never leave God. We&#8217;re married.”
Reactions to the episode focused on O’Donnell’s involvement and the cringeworthy factor of the storyline.
“OK, my wife and I made it 23 minutes, 39 seconds into episode 1 of season 3 of #AndJustLikeThat,” one person <a href="https://x.com/KEVIN_FREE1971/status/1928263838173921542">wrote</a>. “The big hat! The Virgin Rosie O’Donnell nun! Charlotte’s bratty daughters who can’t give Anthony a hug! I’m done! This is a hollow, unwatchable, pretentious bore.”
“I am… disgusted,” another person <a href="https://x.com/baddiesbaketoo/status/1928312440145465819">posted</a> via meme, referencing the O’Donnell/Miranda scenes. 
“Ridiculous!” another commenter echoed, while another person said “they’ve outdone themselves” after featuring Miranda in a relationship with Che (Sara Ramirez), a non-binary character from last season.

Rosie O’Donnell and Cynthia Nixon

Rosie O’Donnell Plays Nun Named Mary Losing Her Virginity To A Woman In ‘Sex And The City’ Spinoff

Rosie O'Donnell Plays Nun Named Mary Losing Her Virginity To A Woman In 'Sex And The City' Spinoff

Rosie O'Donnell

Sex And The City

Actor Russell Brand pleaded “not guilty” to charges of rape and sexual assault on Friday.
The 49-year-old appeared at Southwark Crown Court in London for a very short pre-trial hearing. Brand pleaded not guilty to the five charges filed against him.
As The Daily Wire previously <a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/russell-brand-charged-rape-sexual-assault">reported</a>, the <a href="https://news.met.police.uk/news/russell-brand-charged-by-the-metropolitan-police-service-495944">accusations</a> stem from four alleged incidents; one in 1999 in which a woman said she was raped in the Bournemouth area, one in 2001 in which a woman claimed she was indecently assaulted in the Westminster area of London, one in 2004 when a woman said she was orally raped and sexually assaulted in the Westminster area of London, and one between 2004 and 2005, in which a woman claimed she was sexually assaulted in the Westminster area of London.
Brand will remain on conditional bail until his trial begins in June 2026, per <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/30/arts/russell-brand-pleads-not-guilty-rape.html">The New York Times</a>. The actor will have to keep the court advised of any address changes going forward until the trial begins. The celebrity is being represented by lawyer Oliver Schneider-Sikorsky, who also defended actor Kevin Spacey against sex assault allegations in 2023.
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Brand released a lengthy video in response after the charges were made public, admitting he used to be a sex addict but claiming that all sexual behavior in his past was consensual.
“I’ve always told you guys that when I was young and single before I had my wife and family… I was a fool,” he said in a video shared on social media on April 4. “Man, I was a fool before I lived in the light of the Lord. I was a drug addict, sex addict, and an imbecile. What I never was was a rapist.”
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My response. <a href="https://t.co/wJMGxlwBh0">pic.twitter.com/wJMGxlwBh0</a>
— Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) <a href="https://twitter.com/rustyrockets/status/1908184087304548484?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
“I’ve never engaged in non-consensual activity,” Brand stated at the time. “I pray that you can see that by looking in my eyes.”
He thanked fans again and said he was “grateful” for the opportunity to “defend these charges in court.”

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