Latest news with #RainbowConnection
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Kermit the Frog tells Maryland students to ‘take big leaps' in sweet commencement speech
Miss Piggy would surely agree that Kermit the Frog looked dapper in his red robe and graduation cap as he delivered his cheery commencement speech to the University of Maryland's graduating class on Thursday. The iconic green Muppet encouraged the graduates to 'take big leaps' in life and to always 'stay connected to your families, your friends and your dreams.' 'Life's like a movie,' he told the crowd. 'Write your own ending. Keep believing. Keep pretending. You've all done just what you set out to do. And you're just getting started!' The speech — written and spoken by puppeteer Matt Vogel, who has performed Kermit since 2017 — paid tribute to the late Jim Henson, creator of 'The Muppet Show' and a graduate of the University of Maryland class of 1960. 'In the early days, he had a hand in literally everything I did,' Kermit said at one point, eliciting laughter from the crowd. 'Jim believed that everyone had a place,' he continued. 'Jim thought of that and he made us believe it. And so, my whole life I tried to appreciate people for exactly who they are. ... Life is not a solo act. No, it's not. It's a big, messy, delightful ensemble piece, especially when you're with your people.' He added, 'So as you prepare to take this big leap into real life, here's a little advice, if you're willing to listen to a frog. Rather than jumping over someone to get what you want, consider reaching out your hand and taking the leap side by side. Because life is better when we leap together.' And if those sweet remarks weren't enough to inspire, Kermit wrapped his speech with a 'Rainbow Connection' sing-along, reminding everyone of the prism of opportunities before them. Kermit's speech begins around the 2:04:00 mark below. Click here for a transcript of his remarks. This article was originally published on
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
Kermit the Frog shares words of wisdom for Class of 2025
Class of 2025, Kermit the Frog has some sage advice for you all! Everyone's favorite frog delivered a special "Ker-mencement" address at the University of Maryland in College Park on Thursday and shared some pearls of wisdom for graduating students. It was in some respects a full-circle moment, as the university is Muppets creator Jim Henson's alma mater. "I am honored to share some words of wisdom about three things that are close to my heart: finding your people, taking the leap and making connections," Kermit said in his speech. "As you prepare to take this big leap into real life, here's a little advice, if you're willing to listen to a frog," he continued. "Rather than jumping over someone to get what you want, consider reaching out your hand and taking the leap side by side, because life is better when we leap together." The beloved Muppet also revisited his own past and hearkened back to Henson's time at the university. "Jim and his wife Jane were proud students right here at UMD when the food at the [Adele H. Stamp Student Union] was good," he joked. At the heart of his speech, Kermit emphasized friendship, harmony and celebrating everyone's special traits. "The show must go on, and if you're with your people, then you won't have to do it alone, because life is not a solo act," he said. "No, it's not. It's a big, messy, delightful ensemble piece, especially when you're with your people." Kermit ended his memorable address with a "Rainbow Connection" sing-along, joined by the crowd of students.
Newsweek
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
'American Idol' 2025 Results: Who Made the Top 3? When Is the Finale?
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. With Season 23 of American Idol nearing its end, fans are eagerly awaiting the crowning of this year's champion. The Top 5 contestants faced off in a high-stakes Disney-themed double episode this week, and millions of viewer votes have now decided the final three who will compete in Sunday's finale. What Happened in 'American Idol' Last Night? The May 12 episode was the second night of a Disney-themed week. Each of the Top 5 contestants performed two classic songs from Disney's catalog, with the outcome fully in the hands of viewers through live voting. Guest mentor Lin-Manuel Miranda guided the contestants, while judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie returned to offer their critiques. The night also featured emotional family segments, including visits to Disneyland with loved ones—a recurring theme that added a personal layer to the performances. Several contestants dedicated songs to their children or partners, adding to the emotional weight of the episode. Who Made the Top 3? After nearly 19 million votes were tallied, the three finalists moving on to the American Idol 2025 finale are: John Foster – Known for his smooth vocals and everyman appeal, Foster's performances of "The Bare Necessities" and "Rainbow Connection" won over the judges and the crowd. Richie highlighted his "likability," while Bryan noted his originality. Jamal Roberts – An early fan favorite, Roberts brought his two daughters to Disneyland before the show. He performed "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "Beauty and the Beast," drawing standing ovations. "Let's win this thing, baby!" Bryan shouted afterward. Breanna Nix – Her rendition of "You'll Be in My Heart," dedicated to her husband, was called both strong and heartfelt by the judges. Richie praised her vocal range and control, and Underwood noted her emotional balance on stage. Eliminated from the competition were: Thunderstorm Artis – He delivered heartfelt versions of "A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes" and "Find Yourself," both of which were dedicated to his children. Richie described his presence as "suave" and his voice "amazing," while Underwood called him "all sunshine and positivity" with a powerful emotional delivery. Slater Nalley – Known for his retro charm, Nalley performed "You Got a Friend in Me" and "Born to Be Wild." Underwood noted his ease and charisma without a guitar for the first time, and Bryan praised his ability to command the stage with a classic, crowd-pleasing style. Both are expected to return for special performances in the finale broadcast. "American Idol" stars Ryan Seacrest, Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan. "American Idol" stars Ryan Seacrest, Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan. Gizelle Hernandez/Disney When Is the 'American Idol' Finale? The Season 23 American Idol finale will air Sunday, May 18 at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT on ABC. The live broadcast will feature celebrity performances from artists including Josh Groban, Patti LaBelle, Salt-N-Pepa, and Jessica Simpson, alongside appearances by judges and resident artist Jelly Roll. What Prize Does the 'American Idol' Winner Get? The winner of American Idol 2025 will receive a recording contract with Hollywood Records, along with significant industry exposure, mentorship opportunities, and a cash prize that has historically been in the range of $125,000 to $250,000. The winner often performs at major network events and may land brand endorsements or touring opportunities. Who Were the Last 10 'American Idol' Winners? The winners from the last 10 seasons are as follows: 2024 – Abi Carter – Abi Carter 2023 – Iam Tongi – Iam Tongi 2022 – Noah Thompson – Noah Thompson 2021 – Chayce Beckham – Chayce Beckham 2020 – Just Sam – Just Sam 2019 – Laine Hardy – Laine Hardy 2018 – Maddie Poppe – Maddie Poppe 2016 – Trent Harmon – Trent Harmon 2015 – Nick Fradiani – Nick Fradiani 2014 – Caleb Johnson American Idol skipped 2017 due to a one-year hiatus before its ABC reboot. With the finale on the horizon, all eyes will be on who seizes the opportunity and captures America's vote.
Yahoo
13-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Hoda Kotb surprises her former cohost Jenna Bush Hager with a visit to 'Today' show
Hoda Kotb gave some support to her former cohost, Jenna Bush Hager, on Today this week when she made a surprise appearance. The former morning show host visited Bush Hager and current cohost Dwyane Wade behind the scenes. The account behind the renamed series, Today With Jenna & Friends, formerly named Today With Hoda & Jenna, explained that Kotb "dropped in to show her love and support" for the team. Some went in for hugs. See the post below. Kotb's visit during the daily briefing meeting was a hit. "What is happening? What is happening?" Bush Hager exclaimed. "I FaceTimed you today!" Kotb's final day as an employee at the show was Jan. 10. She had spent nearly three decades at NBC, the network said. She worked on Dateline and as an anchor of the fourth hour of Today with Kathie Lee Gifford before former first daughter Bush Hager joined the show. Kotb and Savannah Guthrie had been at the helm of the earlier, longer news and lifestyle broadcast for more than five NBC News veteran announced in September that she would leave the network's signature morning show to spend more time with her family, which includes daughters Haley Joy, 9, and 5-year-old Hope Catherine. "I've been weighing this decision for quite a while — Am I truly ready?" Kotb wrote in a letter to NBC staff that the network later shared. "But, my sixtieth birthday celebration on the Plaza felt like a shift. Like a massive, joyful YES, you are! I saw it all so clearly: my broadcast career has been beyond meaningful, a new decade of my life lies ahead, and now my daughters and my mom need and deserve a bigger slice of my time pie. I will miss you all desperately, but I'm ready and excited." Related: Hoda Kotb cries on last Today episode as Kermit sings 'Rainbow Connection' to her She later elaborated on the reference to the birthday celebration that she mentioned, which was held in August on Rockefeller Plaza. "I remembered standing outside looking at these beautiful bunch of people with these gorgeous signs, and I thought, This is what the top of the wave feels like for me," Kotb said of her decision on Today. "And I thought it can't get better, and I decided that this is the right time for me to kind of move on." In addition to Wade, Bush Hager's rotating group of celebrity guest hosts has so far included the likes of Scarlett Johansson, Keke Palmer, Eva Longoria, Ciara, and Wynonna Judd. Read the original article on Entertainment Weekly
