Latest news with #DeliBoys'
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
What ‘The Handmaid's Tale' star Elisabeth Moss ‘stressed about' for a year and a half while filming the final season
Fresh off the series finale, The Handmaid's Tale cast and creatives gathered Wednesday at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles to reflect on the Emmy-winning show's full-circle moments — and to reveal a surprise guest. Calling the final scenes of the six-season series 'a very meta experience to film,' star, director, and executive producer Elisabeth Moss described the moment her character, June Osborne, walks through the ruins of the Waterfords' home and reflects on her past as a handmaid, known as Offred, in the Boston household. More from GoldDerby The nontraditional methods 'Deli Boys' casting director used to find an 'authentic' ensemble Guest acting Emmy odds: See how Kaitlyn Dever, Jeffrey Wright, Martin Scorsese, Bryan Cranston, and other hopefuls stack up TV directors roundtable: 'American Primeval,' 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,' 'Paradise' 'It was a really beautiful experience, because we had a closed set just to keep it really nice and calm,' said Moss, who directed four episodes this season, including the finale, during the FYC event. 'Every single member of this crew took it upon themselves that this was going to be the best scene they had ever done, and everything had to be perfect.' Based on the 1985 novel by Margaret Atwood, The Handmaid's Tale imagines an alternate America overtaken by Gilead, a theocratic totalitarian regime where women are forced into reproductive servitude. The dystopian series premiered on Hulu in 2017, as a new political administration took power in the United States — coincidentally led by the same official who entered office as Season 6 debuted earlier this year. 'When I read [creator] Bruce Miller's words, I felt that it was such a powerful message of rebellion, of fighting — a very feminist story,' said executive producer Warren Littlefield during the panel. 'This was developed in the Obama years. We could see the far right on the horizon throughout the world. But we loved the message, echoed so much in this final season: Don't give up the fight.' In the finale, Boston is liberated from Gilead's control by American forces. June, now a free woman, walks the city and reconnects with a familiar face — Emily Malek, the first resistance fighter she encountered in the series, played by Alexis Bledel. Bledel joined the panel onstage as a surprise guest and reflected on what it meant to reunite the two characters. 'The fact that the finale brings us full circle and has June and Emily walking together in freedom felt so meaningful and seemed to inform so much about each of their journeys, as well as the way they were intertwined from the beginning,' Bledel said. 'Being back on set in the context of freedom felt very different. I almost expected to have the bonnet on again.' Moss admitted she had heard early on that Emily's character might return for the finale — but making it happen was the challenge. 'Our first official day one was with Alexis. And she's why June became who she is,' Moss said. 'Once I heard that, I was just basically stressed about it for the next year and a half — whether or not we were actually going to be able to get her to come back and then keep it a secret for so long.' The two-part panel also featured co-showrunners Eric Tuchman and Yahlin Chang, as well as cast members Yvonne Strahovski, Ann Dowd, O-T Fagbenle, Madeline Brewer, Amanda Brugel, Sam Jaeger, Ever Carradine, and Josh Charles, who shared pivotal turning points for their characters. Strahovski said getting Serena to a point of apology by the series' end had everything to do with June. 'I think so much of her journey has to do with June's belief in Serena — that she can ultimately change — and that never wavered,' Strahovski said. 'That's what allows her to evolve. If she didn't have someone in her life forcing her to see what she has done, I don't think she would have gotten there.' While The Handmaid's Tale is concluding, the story will continue in The Testaments, a sequel that will center on Dowd's character, Aunt Lydia. Littlefield gave a preview of the upcoming Hulu series, which Moss is also executive producing. It's based on Atwood's 2019 novel of the same name. 'Four years after the end of Handmaid's Tale, and we're in a world that is Virginia, Maryland,' Littlefield said. 'We're away from the Boston area, and this is from the point of view of the young women coming of age in Lydia's school.' He continued, 'These young women have never known a world other than Gilead, and that world is bright and beautiful and seductive — and yet it's still Gilead. And so that's the realization. Lydia has started the school to try and reform from within, rather than blow up Gilead.' Moss herself has grown significantly since the show's first season, a transformation she credits to Miller and Littlefield. 'They were the original executive producers that I worked with the most, and they recognized that the female voice was really necessary in that position to the show, and they gave me a seat at the table when they honestly didn't have to,' Moss said. 'I'll always be forever grateful to the both of them for that.' Best of GoldDerby TV directors roundtable: 'American Primeval,' 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,' 'Paradise' 'Paradise' directors John Requa and Glenn Ficarra on the 'chaos' of crafting 'the world coming to an end' 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' director Charlotte Brändström on Gandalf's 'big reveal' and which scene required 'the most prep' Click here to read the full article.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘American Idol' Top 3 revealed as 2 contestants eliminated: Who advanced to the Season 23 finale?
Tonight on American Idol, "Disney Night" continues with heroes, villains and a special appearance by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The Top 5 travel to Disneyland Resort and perform twice as America votes live for the three finalists. Judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan provide feedback. After the Top 5 perform, host Ryan Seacrest "dims the lights" as two hopefuls are eliminated. More from GoldDerby 'Deli Boys' and 'Shifting Gears' showrunner Michelle Nader says both shows 'are about humanity and make people laugh' 'American Idol' says goodbye to Slater Nalley and Thunderstorm Artis ahead of Season 23 finale Gabby Samone returns to 'American Idol' for the season finale. Who's joining her? The "Disney Night No. 2" episode of American Idol airs live coast-to-coast on Monday, May 12 (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT). Follow along with our live blog below to see each performance and find out who went home. Plus, vote for your favorite in our poll once the entire Top 5 has performed! 8 p.m. — Previously, on American Idol: The Top 5 finalists were announced on May 11 after competing in "Disney Night No.1" — performing a Disney classic and a Mother's Day tribute. John Foster ("Almost There"/"Believe"), Jamal Roberts ("Go the Distance"/"A Change Is Gonna Come"), and Breanna Nix ("Reflection"/"Like My Mother Does") won Gold Derby's poll as your favorite performers. Thunderstorm Artis ("Colors of the Wind"/"Out of the Blue") and Slater Nalley ("Can You Feel the Love Tonight"/"Don't Think Twice, It's All Right") rounded out the Top 5. After millions votes were cast, Gabby Samone ("How Far I'll Go"/"Home") and Mattie Pruitt ("Remember Me"/"Those Kind of Women") were eliminated. Who will be sent packing next? And who will advance to the Season 23 finale on Sunday, May 18? Let's find out! Slater Nalley Age: 18 Hometown: Atlanta Performance: "You've Got a Friend in Me" from Toy Story Carrie's comments: "That was a fun way to kick things off! You looked totally at ease [without your guitar]." Lionel's comments: "Son, you've come a long way." Luke's comments: "Slater's playing the American Idol game! That song's a classic for us on Disney night and that was certainly one of my favorite versions." John Foster Age: 18 Hometown: Addis, La. Performance: "The Bare Necessities" from The Jungle Book Carrie's comments: "You took a fun song and made it your own. It was just a good time!" Lionel's comments: "You've got likability. A lot of people think it's just about singing, but they've got to like you!" Luke's comments: "You've got 'em right where you want 'em. You've got a thing, you've got a look, you've got a sound." Thunderstorm Artis Age: 29 Hometown: Haleiwa, Hawaii Performance: "A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes" from Cinderella Carrie's comments: "That song fit you perfectly. You are all heart. You don't do too much or too little. We feel your heart behind it." Lionel's comments: "You knocked it out of the park!" Luke's comments: "That moment makes our show so great. It's hard to critique when you come out here every week and give so much. That was such a perfect moment." Breanna Nix Age: 25 Hometown: Denton, Texas Performance: "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" from The Parent Trap Carrie's comments: "The first half I felt like you were a little bit unsure. Your next performance, just have fun." Lionel's comments: "That was a perfect song! You have taken yourself to an area that pressure is going to be a part of your career for the rest of your life." Luke's comments: "I didn't realize there were that many staccato notes in that song! I just love your vibe." Jamal Roberts Age: 27 Hometown: Meridian, Miss. Performance: "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" from Remember the Titans Carrie's comments: "We all know your voice is incredible. You do have an incredible gift, but you missed an opportunity to move around and entertain. We know you have that in you. Let's go!" Lionel's comments: "I don't know if I can emotionally take another performance. You have the ability to Jamal-orize everything. You could take 'Three Blind Mice' and turn it into a soulful song." Luke's comments: "Wow! I watched your original audition this morning. To watch you now today, what a ride you've taken us on." 9:00 p.m. -- Season 21 champ Iam Tongi returned to the American Idol stage to perform "Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride" from the new Lilo & Stitch movie, debuting in theaters on May 23. Slater Nalley Age: 18 Hometown: Atlanta Performance: "Born to Be Wild" from D3: The Mighty Ducks Carrie's comments: "That's what I'm talkin' about! I love that song for you." Lionel's comments: "There you go again. I can't even get control on the crowd. That's how you do it!" Luke's comments: "Great song choice for you. I loved it." Thunderstorm Artis Age: 29 Hometown: Haleiwa, Hawaii Performance: "Find Yourself" from Cars Carrie's comments: "I would have been standing if I could. You have the ability to connect with people. All is good in the world when you sing. We felt it." Lionel's comments: "You have the ability to take an audience and focus them. You're a vibe master." Luke's comments: "Just remember all that time in that room [playing music] with your dad. That's why you're here and you deserve every second of it." John Foster Age: 18 Hometown: Addis, La. Performance: "Rainbow Connection" from The Muppets Carrie's comments: "I love that you're standing here right now proving me right. If you ain't real careful, you might just win this whole thing." Lionel's comments: "I am totally in love with the timbre of your voice. I know it's you on your first note." Luke's comments: "At this point we've seen you go all over the map. It was authentically you and great job on that." Breanna Nix Age: 25 Hometown: Denton, Texas Performance: "You'll Be in My Heart" from Tarzan Carrie's comments: "You brought us into your family and it was such a sweet moment. You have been so solid throughout this entire competition." Lionel's comments: "When you lock in on a note, it ain't goin' nowhere. It's so strong. I enjoyed that performance." Luke's comments: "Your voice and your presence is so strong." Jamal Roberts Age: 27 Hometown: Meridian, Miss. Performance: "Beauty and the Beast" from Beauty and the Beast Carrie's comments: "I can't say anything over this crowd!" Lionel's comments: "How the heck did you do that? So much soul. Only you can pull that off." Luke's comments: "Jamal, let's win this thing!" Dim the lights! Based on America's vote (over 19 million), these artists were eliminated on May 12: Slater Nalley Thunderstorm Artis SIGN UP for Gold Derby's free newsletter with latest predictions Launch Gallery: 'American Idol' Season 23 cast: Meet the Top 24 finalists Best of GoldDerby 'The Masked Singer' spoilers: Who is Boogie Woogie? 'RuPaul's Drag Race' winners list: Every season, plus 'All Stars' Vote for 'Survivor 50': The 3 new questions center around design, survival, and strategy Click here to read the full article.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Gabby Samone returns to ‘American Idol' for the season finale. Who's joining her?
Gabby Samone's journey with American Idol isn't completely over. ABC has announced the lineup of superstar guests for its upcoming Season 23 finale, and the Top 14 are among them. The Final 5 contestants — Breanna Nix, Jamal Roberts, John Foster, Slater Nalley, and Thunderstorm Artis — will appear alongside the nine most recently eliminated artists: Gabby Samone, Mattie Pruitt, Josh King, Canaan James Hill, Kolbi Jordan, Ché Chesterman, Filo, Amanda Barise, and Desmond Roberts. More from GoldDerby 'Deli Boys' and 'Shifting Gears' showrunner Michelle Nader says both shows 'are about humanity and make people laugh' 'American Idol' says goodbye to Slater Nalley and Thunderstorm Artis ahead of Season 23 finale 'The Voice' recap: America votes as Top 12 perform for a spot in the Season 27 finale The three judges — Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie — will sing a showstopping number together, and "Artist in Residence" Jelly Roll will deliver a performance in addition to his role as the season finale mentor. Luke and Lionel joined ABC's reality TV show in 2018, while this marks Carrie's first time sitting at the judges' table after previously winning Season 4. SEE'American Idol' winners list: All seasons A-listers scheduled to appear on the American Idol stage alongside the Top 14 artists include Brandon Lake, Goo Goo Dolls, Good Charlotte, Jennifer Holliday, Jessica Simpson, Josh Groban, Kirk Franklin, Myles Smith, Patti LaBelle, and Salt-N-Pepa. American Idol viewers are still coping with Gabby's shocking elimination from the May 11 episode. Jolten Joe told Gold Derby, "Gabby should not have been eliminated ... she was good enough to win it all." And Kenneth Morris added, "I believe the next Super Star was eliminated last night. Gabby was/is the best candidate I've seen since Carrie Underwood." ABC's three-hour finale will air live coast-to-coast on May 18 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Here's the official logline: "It's the grand finale! The Top 3 give their final performances in a star-studded night with music legends and top stars. Then, this year's American Idol winner is revealed live." As always, host Ryan Seacrest will open the envelope and announce the ultimate winner at the end of the program. Who do you think deserves to win American Idol Season 23? Be sure to sound off in our reality TV forum. SIGN UP for Gold Derby's free newsletter with latest predictions Best of GoldDerby 'The Masked Singer' spoilers: Who is Boogie Woogie? 'RuPaul's Drag Race' winners list: Every season, plus 'All Stars' Vote for 'Survivor 50': The 3 new questions center around design, survival, and strategy Click here to read the full article.
New York Times
28-03-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
After Fasting for Ramadan, Only Doughnuts Will Do
Pop quiz: It's the morning of Eid al-Fitr at the mosque, marking the end of Ramadan. After 30 days of fasting, it's time to indulge in your first meal during daylight hours. What do you reach for? As soon as Eid prayers are over, Saagar Shaikh is on a mission: 'My eyes scan the room, and I'm looking for the nearest Krispy Kreme box, because that's what I'm conditioned to do,' said the actor, who currently stars in the comedy series 'Deli Boys' on Hulu. Across the United States, Eid runs on Dunkin' — or Krispy Kreme or a local bakery, depending on where your mosque caters from. As congregants mingle with friends and family, nearby tables heave with dozens of boxes of chocolate-frosted, glazed or jelly-stuffed pastries. 'It's not Eid unless there's doughnuts,' said Sharaf Mowjood, a producer for CBS News. 'This is just the beginning — that doughnut sets the tone for the rest of the day.' Like many American religious communities, Muslims across the country have gravitated toward those orbs of fried dough: They're cheap, easy to cater in large quantities early in the morning — and nothing pairs more beautifully with that hallowed first morning coffee in 30 days. They're also often halal-friendly. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Los Angeles Times
14-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Unwrapping Hulu's latest series ‘Deli Boys' with the Minds Behind the New Show
A Q&A for the new series 'Deli Boys' took place at The Culver Theater on February 28, 2025, after a screening of the first two episodes. Matt Brennan from the Los Angeles Times moderated the discussion with creator Abdullah Saeed, showrunner Michelle Nader and cast members Asif Ali, Saagar Shaikh, Poorna Jagannathan, Alfie Fuller and Brian George. They talked about the show's origins, characters, comedy and crime. Saeed said he wanted 'Deli Boys' to tell a story that would hook the audience, combining family, business and crime with influences from 'The Godfather' and 'Barry.' 'It was in 2019 that I first came up with the concept and really I was writing a sample script and I just wanted a good format for jokes. So I created two characters who were familiar, I could sort of base on real relationships in my life,' said Saeed. The panelists discussed how the show has its own voice while drawing from classics, featuring South Asian representation and breaking Hollywood stereotypes. They emphasized the depth and relatability of the characters and credited Michelle Nader with that. Her knowledge of Philadelphia and her comedy background helped with the show's authenticity, setting and humor. They also talked about defying audience expectations with diverse representation. 'When I read the script, I was like, this guy's a genius and he's writing in a novelistic way that I felt was very rare. I mean, I have worked in TV a long time and these kinds of scripts with these kinds of singular voices don't come that often,' said Michelle Nader, showrunner. The discussion ended with some lighthearted Oscar speculation and the panel's commitment to storytelling that entertains and reflects diverse experiences. The event gave fans a peek into the making of the show and the changing landscape of entertainment where stories from underrepresented communities are being valued.
