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We talked to ‘Bachelorette’ Taylor Frankie Paul. Then reality hit pause on her TV career

“The best way I can describe it is, it’s an addiction,” says Taylor Frankie Paul. The star of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* is seated by a window in an empty Starbucks within a downtown Salt Lake City hotel, reflecting on her relationship troubles in an interview on Feb. 19.

Followers of Paul’s screen life are all too familiar with the drama. Now, others can’t escape knowing about it too. Days later, a dispute with her on-again, off-again partner would lead to a police investigation that surfaced in multiple news reports this week. Then, on Thursday, the release of a video recording of a separate dispute from 2023 led to a pause on *The Bachelorette*, her latest starring role on reality TV, just three days before the show was set to premiere.

—

### From #MomTok to Reality Fame

Paul’s brush with fame began with #MomTok, as the self-proclaimed founder of the Utah-based group of Mormon moms. This group spawned a corner of TikTok where members shared choreographed dance videos and light lifestyle content. But in 2022, Paul rose to notoriety after revealing in a TikTok Live session details about an arrangement she had with her then-husband, Tate Paul. They had agreed to pursue intimate relations with other consenting couples—without having extramarital sex. However, she confessed to violating their agreement by having an emotional affair.

This salacious revelation, dubbed the “soft-swinging” scandal, lit up social media and eventually inspired Hulu’s breakout hit *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*.

Much of Paul’s story across the show’s four seasons has revolved around her rocky relationship with Dakota Mortensen, the man she began dating following her divorce. Even as the show documented the lead-up to Paul becoming the new face of *The Bachelorette*, her biggest screen opportunity yet, the pair’s on-again, off-again dynamic remained turbulent and confusing—lasting right up to the *Mormon Wives* season finale.

—

### Turmoil Amid Stardom

A despondent Paul nearly upended the start of production on ABC’s dating series when she missed her flight to Los Angeles after sleeping with Mortensen—the father of her youngest son, Ever—the night prior. (She eventually took a later flight.)

“I was just still stuck in the cycle,” she says, noting she hasn’t watched the *Mormon Wives* finale. “That’s why I knew I had to leave [to do ‘The Bachelorette’], if that makes sense. I can’t help people understand it because my own brain doesn’t understand it. The only thing I can relate it to is, it is a drug; the toxicity is a drug. It’s always a mind game and I fall for it every time, and I cave and it’s just so dumb. I get exhausted saying it to people because I’m like, ‘I don’t blame you guys. I’m mad at me.’”

The hook of a 31-year-old mother of three trying to find love who unapologetically wears her troubles on her sleeve was supposed to make her a desirable candidate for the latest crossover experiment in Disney’s reality TV universe.

—

### Investigation and Show Pause

In the week leading up to Sunday’s Season 22 premiere of *The Bachelorette*, reports surfaced detailing allegations of domestic violence involving Paul and Mortensen. Utah’s Draper City Police Department confirmed an open investigation involving the pair but declined to share further details amid the ongoing inquiry.

According to a person familiar with the situation, allegations were made by both parties regarding incidents on Feb. 24 and Feb. 25—less than a week after our interview. No charges have been filed in connection to this case.

Paul was previously arrested and charged in 2023 for a separate dispute involving Mortensen, eventually pleading guilty to one count of aggravated assault; other charges were dropped. Part of that earlier incident was documented in the first season of *Mormon Wives*.

On Thursday, TMZ published a video of the 2023 incident, prompting Disney Entertainment Television to pause the planned premiere of *The Bachelorette*.

“In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of *The Bachelorette* at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family,” the statement from Disney read.

Whether the season will be released later or re-edited remains unknown, according to a source familiar with the matter.

—

### Statements from Paul and Producers

“Taylor is very grateful for ABC’s support as she prioritizes her family’s safety and security,” read a statement from Paul’s representative. The statement added that Paul suffered “extensive mental and physical abuse as well as threats of retaliation.”

While Season 5 of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* began production in January, cameras were not following Paul during the recent incidents; she was focused on publicity commitments for *The Bachelorette*.

Hulu and ABC declined to comment on the ongoing investigation. Mortensen could not be reached for comment.

Production on *Mormon Wives* is currently on pause, and a decision about Paul’s status as a cast member has not been made, according to a person briefed on the situation.

—

### The Impact on Both Shows

Paul’s chaotic reality now casts a shadow on both *The Bachelorette* and *Mormon Wives*. The programming experiment aimed at blending the audiences of ABC’s veteran dating series and Hulu’s emerging “Real Housewives” alternative has become an example of how rapid expansion and crossover success can backfire.

The situation also highlights the ongoing discourse around vetting failures and oversights in reality TV, as well as the voyeuristic nature of viewers attracted to this genre’s often sordid personal drama.

—

### How the ‘Mormon Wives’ Crossover Took Shape

As traditional television faces steep challenges due to changing viewing habits influenced by streaming and social media, Disney has been blurring the lines between its linear and streaming properties ABC and Hulu to maximize reach.

*Mormon Wives*, which has released four seasons in less than two years, has become a key asset in this strategy.

Earlier this year, two cast members, Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt, competed against each other on *Dancing With the Stars* (DWTS). Paul’s casting as *The Bachelorette* made her the first heroine who was not a contestant on a previous *Bachelor* season.

Before the reports about Paul surfaced, The Times spoke with Robert Mills, head of Walt Disney Television Alternative, and show producers about efforts to collaborate within the company’s broadcasting universe. This approach rewards viewer curiosity and differentiates the company from competitors by building Hulu’s unscripted slate.

Mills recalled that talks of crossovers began even before *Mormon Wives* launch, with producers envisioning cast members appearing on DWTS to coincide with the show’s arrival.

“When the show took off, then it became, ‘OK, now we know we’re doing it,’” Mills said.

Having cast members compete on DWTS added curiosity for audiences of both shows. Adding the journey’s narrative into *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* enhanced the viewing experience. Two *Mormon Wives* cast members competing in the same DWTS season heightened this dynamic.

The casting process was featured in Season 3 of *Mormon Wives*, including their pitch to ABC executives. Their DWTS journey, including relocating families to Los Angeles and their falling out, was part of Season 4.

—

### Corporate Synergy and Challenges

Corporate synergy within the Disney portfolio is nothing new. *Dancing With the Stars* regularly features Disney-themed episodes and has hosted *Bachelor* franchise stars before. Navigating intertwined storylines requires coordination.

“We basically carved out times where they [the ‘Mormon Wives’ crew] could film rehearsals and we always had a producer present just in case something happened that was dramatically important for our show,” said Conrad Green, showrunner of DWTS.

“It’s like a gentleman’s agreement—we’re borrowing talent off another show so we have to work together, and it works for everyone’s benefit.”

Mills noted that spin-offs and further expansion conversations were ongoing with *Mormon Wives* as of the interview.

The crossover strategy became a key feature of the show’s identity, featuring other Hulu series like *Vanderpump Villa*, where cast members and spouses engaged in shared storylines full of drama.

—

### A New Direction for *The Bachelor* Franchise

Paul’s casting on *The Bachelor* universe continues an effort to revamp the long-running franchise, which has seen milestones like its first Black male lead in 2021 and a senior citizen dating spin-off, *Golden Bachelor*, last year.

After Paul posted a tongue-in-cheek TikTok in June 2025 announcing her “bid” as a single mother looking for love, Disney’s publicity department took notice, sparking discussions about her potential role.

Showrunner Scott Teti did his homework before agreeing.

“Of course, I had heard of her—it’s hard not to hear that name,” he said. “But I had to familiarize myself with it because I hadn’t watched her show. Instantly, you realize how honest and truthful she is, almost to a fault. Although she’s unrelatable in many ways due to media and social media attention, she has a layered story that I think is very relatable to many people—a single mother who hasn’t found relationship success but still wants to find love.”

Teti added that although Paul was a “fish out of water” on the first night, she showed vulnerability that made the season compelling.

“That is why this season is so big, and there are so many pivotal points in the season that will leave you on the edge of your seat.”

—

### Behind the Scenes with Paul

When we met, Paul was dressed casually in beige lounge pants and an oversized mushroom-adorned T-shirt. Despite a sluggish demeanor as she navigated her schedule between *Mormon Wives* Season 4 and *The Bachelorette*, she remained affable.

She shared TikTok videos expressing her current mental state, illustrating her emotional challenges.

No stranger to viral success, Paul views the show crossovers as “genius marketing,” while acknowledging potential risks to the #MomTok community.

“I think it’s really cool to see all the different opportunities you can venture off into,” she said. “The con is that with all these opportunities, it kind of spreads us apart. We’re doing our own thing. It could break friendships. You get envious. You get competitive.”

As the cast’s fame grows—inside and outside Disney—showrunner Andrea Metz says the key to keeping the series interesting is to incorporate these moments openly rather than pretending they don’t exist.

“We have not shied away from breaking the fourth wall,” Metz said. “We have not shied away from talking about what is really happening with them. I think people like that. The trajectory of their fame and their stars rising has been very quick, but it’s also been really exciting.”

—

### Was She Ready for ‘The Bachelorette’?

The power and unity of #MomTok has become a concern each season as personal conflicts make headlines. Even before recent allegations emerged, Paul’s entanglement with Mortensen caused some viewers to question whether she approached *The Bachelorette* seriously.

The break between wrapping *Mormon Wives* and starting *The Bachelorette* filming was just one day.

Paul admits she wasn’t sure if she was ready.

“I might not have been ready, but ready is a decision—just do it,” she said. “It was like a rehab, almost. It’s full detox. I had no contact—no world where it happens with the co-parent. Whether or not I was ready, it was what I so needed, at the very least to just get away from it. And I wanted to find someone and love.”

*The Bachelorette* became one of her hardest yet most rewarding experiences.

“I have my kids back home. I’m not just here looking for me. The emotional exhaustion was a lot. I’m dating 20-something guys. I am putting my all into one conversation after another, every single day, all day. Your brain is just kind of fried.”

When asked whether she feels like the show helped break the cycle she had with Mortensen, she said:

“Yeah, I feel like it helped. Obviously, things were within the process of the show; I can’t speak on it yet. But you’ll see it all unravel.”

—

Taylor Frankie Paul’s story is one of complexity, vulnerability, and the unpredictable nature of reality TV fame—where real-life struggles frequently collide with on-screen drama.
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2026-03-19/taylor-frankie-paul-bachelorette-secret-lives-of-mormon-wives-crossover

‘Lanterns’ co-creator Damon Lindelof apologizes for ‘dumb joke’ that upset DC fans and a comics icon

**Damon Lindelof Sets the Record Straight on “Lanterns”: “Green is f- awesome”**

Damon Lindelof, co-creator and executive producer of the upcoming HBO Max superhero drama *Lanterns*, is addressing the backlash following his previous comments about the show’s title. In a heartfelt apology posted to Instagram on Monday, the prolific TV writer—known for his work on *Lost*—clarified his stance and expressed his genuine admiration for the Green Lantern legacy.

“I made a dumb joke on a comedy podcast,” Lindelof wrote alongside a photo of himself wearing a very green T-shirt emblazoned with the Green Lantern symbol at his first Comic-Con appearance. “I’m not going to bob and weave about context, the joke was dumb, the fandom is not. I owe them an explanation and a genuine reflection of my actual feelings.”

The joke that sparked controversy originated from Lindelof’s appearance on a 2024 episode of *Pod Save America* co-host Jon Lovett’s podcast, *Lovett or Leave It*. When asked about the show’s title, Lindelof said, “It’s called ‘Lanterns’ because we all agreed that the ‘Green’ was stupid.”

These remarks resurfaced recently after the release of the first *Lanterns* teaser earlier this month, during which some fans noticed an apparent lack of green. The resulting uproar caught the attention of comic book legend Grant Morrison, who penned a direct response in a Sunday Substack post. Morrison questioned Lindelof’s involvement with the project, writing:

“Why does a writer attach himself to this kind of narrative if he thinks it’s fundamentally ‘stupid’? What is this jockish dismissal of superhero conventions intended to prove anyway? Does Lindelof imagine it makes him seem less nerdy? The only people who give a [f-] about the ‘Lanterns’ TV series are Green Lantern fans. Why alienate them at the start? That feels more like ‘stupid.’”

Lindelof acknowledged Morrison’s criticism and took responsibility for his remarks. He also shared a personal reflection on what the Green Lantern character Hal Jordan meant to him growing up:

“For a quiet, uncoordinated kid, there was nothing cooler than a hero whose superpower was his imagination,” Lindelof wrote. “And green is not stupid, it is my lifelong favorite color and I have a questionnaire that I filled out in third grade to prove it.”

He went on to emphasize his pride in being part of the *Lanterns* creative team:

“More importantly, it would be a betrayal to everyone I worked for and alongside to say anything other than I was absolutely honored to be a part of the team that manifested the incredible construct that is *Lanterns*, because it was,” Lindelof added. “I was sloppy and careless with my words, ironic considering I care so much about Hal, John and the entire Corps. I can and will do better to be worthy of the oath. Until then, I’ll let the show speak for itself and I can’t wait for you all to hear what it has to say.”

Support soon followed in the comments section of Lindelof’s Instagram post. Among those sending encouragement were *Superman* actor Nathan Fillion—whose Green Lantern Corps member Guy Gardner will appear in *Lanterns*—and DC Studios president James Gunn.

“The joke was funny. No harm, no foul! Keep up the great work, we appreciate you!” Fillion wrote, including a green glove emoji. Gunn expressed his support more succinctly, sharing a single green heart emoji.

With the apology and positive reinforcement from notable figures in the DC fandom, Lindelof looks to move forward confidently as *Lanterns* gears up for its highly anticipated debut.
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2026-03-17/green-lanterns-damon-lindelof-apology

Amy Madigan wins Oscar for ‘Weapons,’ 40 years after her first nomination

Amy Madigan was horror’s secret weapon this awards season, and now she has the gold to prove it. Madigan won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her turn as the ginger wig-donning witch Aunt Gladys in Zach Cregger’s supernatural film, *Weapons*.

She was the film’s sole nominee and beat out contenders Teyana Taylor (*One Battle After Another*), Wunmi Mosaku (*Sinners*), Elle Fanning (*Sentimental Value*), and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas (*Sentimental Value*) for the prestigious award.

“This is great!” Madigan exclaimed as she accepted the honor on Sunday evening. The actress added that the press has repeatedly asked her what’s different about this nomination compared to her earlier career decades ago. “What’s different is I have this little gold guy,” she quipped with a smile.

Madigan’s portrayal of Aunt Gladys was so iconic that ceremony host Conan O’Brien parodied her character in his opening monologue. O’Brien humorously ran with a trail of children behind him through various Oscar-nominated movies, including *Sinners* and *KPop Demon Hunters* (in animated form), highlighting the character’s cultural impact.

With her nomination for *Weapons*, Madigan set a new record for the longest gap between Oscar nominations for an actress. She earned her last nod 40 years ago for her performance as Sunny in 1985’s *Twice in a Lifetime*, directed by Bud Yorkin and starring Gene Hackman.

This awards season, Madigan also received nominations from the Golden Globe Awards, Critics Choice Awards, and Actor Awards—the latter two of which she turned into wins. Reflecting on her decades-long career, Madigan dedicated her Actor Award win to her fellow SAG-AFTRA members earlier this month, saying, “It’s such an honor to be here. I’ve been doing this a long-ass time.”

“Gladys has surprised me. She’s getting a lot of love back,” Madigan said. “I didn’t know y’all want to hang out with her.”

The veteran performer expressed similar surprise at her *Weapons* character’s rapid rise to icon status during a recent episode of The Times’ Envelope podcast. “I thought people would really have a good time with Aunt Gladys,” she said. “But the night that we opened it was, ‘Boom.’ So this was all a surprise to me.”

Madigan added that she and director Zach Cregger are in conversation about a potential *Gladys* prequel movie, which would likely explore the character’s origins and journey to witchcraft.

“What that will be, I don’t know. I like mystery in things, and Gladys is a mystery, but I trust Zach implicitly,” Madigan said. “So I’m very curious if we get to make it and what will happen.”
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/awards/story/2026-03-15/amy-madigan-wins-oscars-2026-supporting-actress-weapons

‘War of the Worlds’ remake sinks to the bottom at this year’s Razzie Awards

**Surveillance Industry Take on War of the Worlds Starring Ice Cube Sweeps 46th Annual Golden Raspberry Awards**

The latest remake of H.G. Wells’ 1898 classic sci-fi novel *War of the Worlds*, starring Ice Cube, dominated the 46th Annual Golden Raspberry Awards, popularly known as the Razzies. The Razzies, a parody of the Academy Awards, annually highlight Hollywood’s most embarrassing cinematic efforts just before the mainstream Oscars ceremony.

This direct-to-video reboot of *War of the Worlds* was awarded a total of five Razzies, including Worst Remake, Worst Actor, Worst Screenplay, Worst Director, and Worst Picture. Critics universally panned the film, and it earned abysmally low ratings on Rotten Tomatoes.

In a press release, members of the Golden Raspberry Foundation—a voting group comprising over 1,200 movie fans, journalists, and film industry professionals worldwide—described the remake as a “cult hate-watch classic” and “a near sweeper of our $4.97 trophy.”

Ice Cube took home the Worst Actor award for his portrayal of a Department of Homeland Security surveillance expert in the film. Meanwhile, Australian star Rebel Wilson was named Worst Actress for her “not-quite-believable performance as an action hero in *Bride Hard*,” a film featuring weaponized curling irons.

Neither Ice Cube nor Rebel Wilson have responded to NPR’s requests for comment regarding these dubious honors.

The Worst Supporting Actress Razzie went to Scarlet Rose Stallone for her role in *Gunslingers*. Meanwhile, the award for Worst Supporting Actor was humorously bestowed upon all seven CGI-enhanced dwarves in Disney’s live-action *Snow White* remake. The Razzie press release noted, “It cost a fortune and lost a fortune,” referencing the film’s massive $300 million budget and reported $170 million loss, as detailed by Forbes. The statement even speculated that the film was “perhaps cursed by Walt himself for having ignored his dying wish for it never to be remade.”

In a more positive note, the Redeemer Award—given to a previous Razzie nominee or winner who has made a critical or commercial comeback—was presented to Kate Hudson for her Oscar-nominated performance in *Song Sung Blue*. Hudson has appeared multiple times on Razzie hit lists, including for *My Best Friend’s Girl* (2008), *Mother’s Day* (2016), and *Music* (2021).

Founded in 1981 by Hollywood publicist John J. B. Wilson, the Razzies were created to “celebrate” the least compelling films of the prior year. The very first Worst Picture winner was *Can’t Stop the Music* from 1980.

### Full List of 46th Razzie Award Winners

– **Worst Picture:** *War of the Worlds* (2025)
– **Worst Actor:** Ice Cube, *War of the Worlds* (2025)
– **Worst Actress:** Rebel Wilson, *Bride Hard*
– **Worst Supporting Actress:** Scarlet Rose Stallone, *Gunslingers*
– **Worst Supporting Actor:** All Seven Artificial Dwarfs, *Snow White*
– **Worst Screen Combo:** All Seven Artificial Dwarfs, *Snow White*
– **Worst Prequel, Remake, Rip-Off or Sequel:** *War of the Worlds* (2025)
– **Worst Director:** Rich Lee, *War of the Worlds* (2025)
– **Worst Screenplay:** *War of the Worlds* (2025) – Kenny Golde, Marc Hyman

Stay tuned for more updates and insights from Hollywood’s most notorious award ceremony!
https://www.npr.org/2026/03/14/nx-s1-5747985/razzie-awards-war-of-the-worlds-ice-cube-oscars-academy-awards

Review and setlist: Dropkick Murphys fires up crowd, flames ICE at St. Patty’s Day kickoff show

“This weekend makes us a better band because we have to play so many songs. Thanks for giving a s-t.”
— Ken Casey, Dropkick Murphys
MGM Music Hall at Fenway, March 13, 2026

—

Dropkick Murphys once again came in swinging Friday night, kicking off a rollicking weekend of pedal-to-the-metal shows celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Reveling in the glory of their 30th anniversary and yet another weekend of St. Patty’s Day shenanigans, the band wasted no time in getting things going.

With three openers under their belts already, the crowd was raring to go as frontman Ken Casey launched into the opening lines of “Barroom Hero.” The crowd’s intensity might have come as a bit of a shock to a less-experienced group, but Dropkick Murphys are about as seasoned as Boston-based performers get. Pouncing on the explosive energy, they barreled right into fan favorites such as “The State of Massachusetts” and “The Boys Are Back.”

MGM Music Hall at Fenway has been the home turf for the band’s St. Patrick’s Day concerts for a few years now, and Friday’s show proved that it’s a stage they’re fully comfortable on. Casey once again proved his mastery at keeping a rowdy crowd together, leaping out onto the stage extensions and leaning in to sing along with fans.

Looking back on three decades as a band, Dropkick Murphys gave time in the spotlight to songs old and new. This included a run of three back-to-back tracks — “Caught in a Jar,” “Boys on the Docks,” and “Never Alone” — from their 1998 album *Do or Die*.

“This weekend makes us a better band because we have to play so many songs,” Casey said. “Thanks for giving a s-t.”

It was also during this run that Casey foreshadowed the more overt politics that came into full force in the second half of the band’s set. Dropkick Murphys have always been vocal, especially about their support for immigrants, but the past year’s crackdown from the Trump administration has only amplified their response.

“I wanna send this one out to the children and grandchildren of immigrant parents,” Casey said before launching into “Boys on the Docks.” The band then paid tribute to fellow Boston-based punk band The Trouble with a cover of their song “This One’s For You.”

Perhaps playing a string of older songs left Dropkick Murphys reminiscing, but that sentimentality didn’t last long.

“There’s a dementia-ridden pedophile in office starting wars,” Casey bellowed. “F-k that!”

Casey’s cries prompted an eruption of cheers from the audience as his bandmates catapulted into “Who’ll Stand With Us?,” the lead track off the latest Dropkick Murphys album, *For the People*. The band first debuted the song during last year’s St. Patrick’s Day shows and gave it the acoustic treatment soon after at Boston’s “Hands Off!” rally in April 2025.

In keeping with past years, union member and Lizzie Borden and the Axes frontwoman Heather Fahey joined Casey on stage to perform “The Dirty Glass” as a duet. Fahey’s appearance revealed just how many crowd members had been at past St. Patrick’s Day shows, and fans who recognized her gave a hearty welcome.

“Forever” made space for a rare solemn moment in an otherwise bombastic set. However, Casey seemed to understand that these moments being so few is what makes them so precious.

“We weren’t planning on playing this one, but y’all look like a bunch of sensitive bastards. And someone requested it,” he joked.

As any seasoned Dropkick Murphys fan would know, moments like these are typically the calm before the storm. “Forever” was no exception, as it was immediately followed by “Citizen I. C. E.,” a fiery protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“It’s time to wake up, Boston!” Casey called. “F-k ICE!”

The song is an updated version of their 2005 track “Citizen C. I. A.” and was released earlier this year to protest the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis by ICE agent Jonathan Ross. The band bolted through the blistering cut as the song’s lyrics and footage of ICE arrests played behind them on stage. At barely over a minute in length, the breakneck speed and raucous chanting made it the hardest-rocking song of the night.

Being joined on stage by Austin Sparkman, frontman of the Boston-based hardcore punk band Haywire, certainly helped.

“Citizen I. C. E.” is the lead single from *New England Forever*, a split EP by Dropkick Murphys and Haywire. It officially releases on streaming March 17, but it was available early on vinyl at Dropkick Murphys shows starting Feb. 9.

The band squeezed in a few more fan favorites to close out their main set, including “Rose Tattoo” and “Worker’s Song,” but the rapid pace of some songs left them with extra time on their hands. To make sure they used every minute they had, they added a live debut of “Only the Strong” from *New England Forever* to the start of their encore.

Though fans seemed to enjoy “Only the Strong” enough, there was a sense that they would’ve preferred to hear one of the classics that got left on the table, such as “Tessie” or “Kiss Me, I’m Sh-tfaced.” While Dropkick Murphys shouldn’t hesitate to play new material, one of those tracks would’ve certainly hit harder, especially in Boston on St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

After that, it was time for the anthem everyone had been waiting for. Two decades after it became Dropkick Murphys’ biggest hit, “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” still fires up crowds like no other song. While it would have been a perfect closer, the show didn’t end there.

The band made sure to go out with a bang by playing “The Big Man,” a song practically made for moshing.

“Let’s get that circle going!” Casey shouted as the crowd released the last of its pent-up chaotic energy.

Once again, Dropkick Murphys proved that they know Boston crowds like no other and kicked off the weekend in fine style. With four more shows on the way this weekend, Friday’s performance showed that the band still has local loyalty at a time when Boston needs it most.

—

### Opening Acts

Dropkick Murphys were led in by an all-star lineup of Boston-based punk bands, including The Vigilantes, Haywire, and Showcase Showdown. Each band built on the next and perfectly set the tone for the night. The Vigilantes and Showcase Showdown, both underground acts from the 1990s, came out of retirement after decades to support Dropkick Murphys. Haywire, on the other hand, is a much newer act, but they certainly had the chops to stand alongside the others.

—

### Dropkick Murphys Setlist
*MGM Music Hall at Fenway, March 13, 2026*

– Barroom Hero
– The State of Massachusetts
– Mick Jones Nicked My Pudding
– The Boys Are Back
– Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya
– The Gang’s All Here
– Pipebomb on Lansdowne
– Caps and Bottles
– Caught in a Jar
– Boys on the Docks
– Never Alone
– This One’s For You (The Trouble cover)
– Which Side Are You On? (The Almanac Singers cover)
– Who’ll Stand With Us?
– The Dirty Glass
– God Willing
– Forever
– Citizen I. C. E.
– The Men Behind the Wire (The Barleycorn cover)
– Rose Tattoo
– Worker’s Song

**Encore:**
– Only the Strong (Live debut)
– I’m Shipping Up to Boston
– The Big Man

—

Dropkick Murphys’ March 13 show at the MGM Music Hall at Fenway was a powerful mix of nostalgia, fiery political statements, and high-energy punk rock — a fitting start to a weekend of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
https://www.boston.com/culture/concert-reviews/2026/03/14/review-setlist-dropkick-murphys-at-mgm-music-hall-3-13-26/

Rihanna at home as Beverly Hills mansion is struck by gunfire, source says

A woman fired several shots into the Beverly Hills home of pop star Rihanna on Sunday, with a bullet penetrating a wall of the mansion, a law enforcement source told The Times.

Los Angeles police responded to the shooting report at 1:21 p.m. on Sunday, a spokesperson confirmed. A 30-year-old female suspect was taken into custody at the scene.

According to authorities, the suspect fired multiple rounds from inside her vehicle toward Rihanna’s home. The pop star was at the residence during the incident, the source said.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Police Sgt. Jonathan de Vera, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Police Department, confirmed that no one was hurt in the shooting.
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-03-08/rihanna-beverly-hills-mansion-is-struck-by-gunfire-source-says

Secrets of the stars ahead of the Oscars: Picture perfect poses, the right dress and more

NEW YORK – The Oscars represent the ultimate intersection of film and fashion, where hard work is rewarded, and unforgettable red carpet moments are made. Each moment is etched into history with one statue and one photograph at a time.

Entertainment reporter Joelle Garguilo set out to uncover some of the secrets stars rely on when preparing for an award show like the Oscars.

Dr. Dendy Engelman of the Shafer Clinic revealed that she has been treating several people attending the Oscars and has been busy for the last six months. “People are getting ready, you know, they’re doing body toning, they’re doing skin tightening,” Engelman said.

She also shared insights into what her celebrity clients often say when they come in. “I need to look perfect without looking done, head to toe perfection, you would be shocked,” Engelman explained.

When asked about the most requested treatment currently, Lucia Miranda from the Shafer Clinic said, “The tight jawlines with the Everest, get them snatched and lifted, and the best thing is I can do it, and they can walk to get their makeup done right away.”

In addition to facial treatments, the team focuses on muscle building and body toning to help clients look their best for the big night.

Regarding the dresses, the days of picking a gown off the rack are long gone. Designers like Natalie De’Banco of Bronx & Banco work closely with celebrities and their stylists to create custom looks — often up until the last minute. De’Banco has dressed stars such as Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Miley Cyrus.

When asked about her typical preparation time, De’Banco said, “A month if you are lucky. So if you came to me and you asked for a red carpet gown, that’s basically what we create.”

As photos of the stars flood social media immediately after the event, De’Banco emphasized that this kind of exposure is priceless marketing. “In today’s digital age, you have to know how to make it all work when the cameras are flashing.”

That’s where image consultant and posing instructor Britney Hayles comes in. “Practice makes perfect,” Hayles said. “Looking at the cameras in front and to the side. And when you’re done posing, you have a little wave.”

While some secrets of the stars are meant to be shared, one lesson remains clear: looking effortless on the red carpet takes a tremendous amount of effort behind the scenes.
https://abc7.com/post/oscars-red-carpet-what-takes-celebrities-get-picture-perfect-hollywoods-biggest-night/18685769/

Justin Timberlake sues to block release of police video from 2024 drunken driving arrest in New York

**Justin Timberlake Sues to Block Release of Police Body Cam Footage from Hamptons Drunken Driving Arrest**

*NEW YORK —* Pop star Justin Timberlake is suing to block the release of police body camera footage related to his 2024 drunken driving arrest in New York’s Hamptons.

Timberlake’s lawyers filed a lawsuit Monday against the Village of Sag Harbor and its police department, arguing that releasing the video would “devastate” Timberlake’s privacy by revealing “intimate, highly personal, and sensitive details.” They also contend that it would cause “severe and irreparable harm” to his reputation by subjecting him to “public ridicule and harassment.”

“The footage at issue depicts Petitioner in an acutely vulnerable state during a roadside encounter with law enforcement, capturing intimate details of Petitioner’s physical appearance, demeanor, speech, and conduct during field sobriety testing, the subsequent arrest, and Petitioner’s confinement following arrest over the next several hours,” the lawsuit states.

A hearing was held Monday in state court in Riverhead, but Judge Joseph Farneti did not issue an immediate ruling, according to Vincent Toomey, a lawyer representing Sag Harbor. Instead, the judge asked both parties to confer on a potential resolution and report back later in the week.

Timberlake’s lawyers have not yet responded to emails seeking comment.

The NSYNC singer turned solo artist and actor pleaded guilty to impaired driving in September 2024. Police reported that Timberlake ran a stop sign in the village center, veered out of his lane, and exited his BMW smelling of alcohol that June.

The Tennessee native told officers he had consumed one martini and was following friends home in Sag Harbor—a former whaling village among the affluent beach communities of the Hamptons, about 100 miles east of New York City.

As part of his plea deal, Timberlake agreed to give a public safety announcement warning against the dangers of drunken driving. This agreement reduced his initial misdemeanor charge to a noncriminal traffic violation.

He was sentenced to a $500 fine, 25 hours of community service, and a 90-day suspension of his driver’s license.

“Even if you’ve had one drink, don’t get behind the wheel of a car,” Timberlake said following his court appearance. “This is a mistake that I made, but I’m hoping that whoever is watching and listening right now can learn from this mistake. I know that I certainly have.”

According to the lawsuit, Timberlake’s legal team was informed Sunday that village officials intended to release portions of the footage with some redactions to comply with public records requests. The total footage reportedly runs approximately eight hours and includes Timberlake’s initial stop, police questioning, field sobriety tests, and arrest.

The Associated Press was among several media outlets that submitted public records requests seeking the release of the video.

Sag Harbor Mayor Thomas Gardella stated that village officials have carefully reviewed the footage to ensure it does not jeopardize police safety or public security.

“We’re trying to be as transparent as can be with this footage,” Gardella said, noting that New York’s public records law generally mandates the release of police body camera footage.
https://abcnews.com/Entertainment/wireStory/justin-timberlake-sues-block-release-police-video-2024-130697955

WGA cancels Los Angeles awards show amid labor strike

The Writers Guild of America West (WGAW) has canceled its awards ceremony originally scheduled for March 8, as its staff union members continue to strike. The employees are demanding higher pay and protections against the use of artificial intelligence.

In a letter sent to members on Sunday, WGA West’s board of directors, including President Michele Mulroney, explained the decision: “The non-supervisory staff of the WGAW are currently on strike and the Guild would not ask our members or guests to cross a picket line to attend the awards show. The WGAW staff have a right to strike and our exceptional nominees and honorees deserve an uncomplicated celebration of their achievements.”

While the Los Angeles ceremony has been canceled, the New York ceremony, also scheduled for the same day, is expected to proceed as planned. According to the letter, an alternative celebration for Los Angeles-based nominees will be held at a later date.

Comedian and actor Atsuko Okatsuka was set to host the L.A. event, and filmmaker James Cameron was slated to receive the WGA West Laurel Award.

WGA union staffers have been striking outside the guild’s Los Angeles headquarters on Fairfax Avenue since February 17. The union alleges that management did not intend to reach an agreement on the pending contract. Furthermore, they claim that guild management has “surveilled workers for union activity, terminated union supporters, and engaged in bad faith surface bargaining.”

On Tuesday, the union stated that management had mentioned canceling the ceremony during a call about contract negotiations. The staff union responded, “Make no mistake: this is an attempt by WGAW management to drive a wedge between WGSU and WGA membership when we should be building unity ahead of MBA [Minimum Basic Agreement] negotiations with the AMPTP [Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers].”

The union further urged guild management to end the strike immediately, posting on Instagram, “We urge Guild management to end this strike now.”

The union, formed last spring and consisting of more than 100 employees working in areas such as legal, communications, and residuals, first authorized a strike in January with 82% of its members supporting the action.

Contract negotiations, which began in September, have primarily focused on the use of artificial intelligence, pay raises, and “basic protections” including grievance procedures. The WGA has stated that it offered “comprehensive proposals with numerous union protections and improvements to compensation and benefits.”

The cancellation of the awards ceremony, occurring just weeks before the Oscars, casts a shadow over the upcoming negotiations between the WGA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), which represents studios and streamers.

Notably, in 2023, the WGA experienced a strike lasting 148 days, marking the second-longest strike in the union’s history.
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2026-03-01/wga-cancels-los-angeles-awards-show-amid-labor-strike

Indiana woman Kyndal Inskeep wants to be next ‘American Idol’

**Kyndal Inskeep: Central Indiana Singer-Songwriter Aims to Be the Next “American Idol”**

LOS ANGELES (WLS) — Kyndal Inskeep, a talented singer-songwriter from Fishers, Indiana, is chasing her big dreams and hoping to become the next “American Idol.”

Inskeep recently spoke about her musical journey and aspirations in an exclusive interview streamed by ABC7 Chicago. “Music has always been my passion, yeah. I started singing very, very young,” she shared.

Her faith plays a significant role in both her music and her life. “The Lord has sustained me through everything, and His grace is so merciful. I do believe that He’s placed me in a position to almost be a bridge in a way,” Inskeep explained.

A memorable moment during the auditions featured Lainey, a 16-year-old contestant from Alabama, singing a song that Inskeep wrote just before her own audition.

“Music is a universal language. And to have someone singing your words the way that they want to express, it’s like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. And it’s why I do what I do,” Inskeep said.

Performing her original music in front of the judges was a profound experience for her. “It was a really divine experience. I wouldn’t change a thing about the audition; I’m really happy with it,” she added.

Inskeep also reflected on the charm of Midwestern contestants on “American Idol.” “Maybe it’s our charm; we have that Midwestern, happy-go-lucky thing going on,” she remarked.

Entering the show, Inskeep didn’t have many expectations, but the experience has far exceeded what she imagined. “It has super exceeded anything I could have imagined. So, I’m really grateful; I want to keep going, and I wanna become the best artist I can be. It’s helping me with my confidence; it’s helping me just become,” she said.

Don’t miss Kyndal Inskeep and other hopefuls on *American Idol*, airing Monday, March 2, on ABC7 Chicago.

**SEE ALSO:**
EXCLUSIVE: 15-year-old Haitian singer pays homage to her culture during ‘American Idol’ audition
https://abc7chicago.com/post/fishers-indiana-woman-kyndal-inskeep-wants-american-idol/18650990/