Latest news with #RisingStar
Cosmopolitan
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cosmopolitan
Is Dancing With the Stars Rigged? Producer Speaks Out
Dancing With The Stars is about to debut its 34th season on ABC and apparently the show is pulling in bigger audiences than ever—and battling rumors that it's rigged. Executive producer Ryan O'Dowd just sat down for an interview with Deadline, who wasted no time asking about the "small contingent of fans who accuse the show of being fixed." "We take that very seriously," Ryan said. "We have never, nor would we ever do anything to manipulate the votes. The show really needs to be credible. It needs to allow the viewers to have a voice and to really be the voice of who deserves to win. So we have never nor would we ever want to manipulate that in any way." Ryan was also asked about the possibility of doing a live show for the West Coast and East Coast, and shut that down pretty fast. "Many years ago, I worked on a singing show called Rising Star for ABC, and it became unbelievably challenging to produce," he said. "We would essentially have the live show for the east coast and central viewers and then we would stay and produce another live result. There was a West coast save element to that format and the juice wasn't worth squeeze, to be honest. I think we are always looking for ways in which we can include the west coast in a more meaningful way. It's just proven to be very difficult." Noted!
Associated Press
4 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
MassRobotics Announces Recipients of 2025 Robotics Medal Recognizing Accomplishments of Women in Robotics
BOSTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / May 29, 2025 / MassRobotics, a leading robotics innovation organization, announced its 2025 Robotics Medal and Rising Star recipients at the IEEE ICRA conference in Atlanta. The Robotics Medal is the world's first major award to recognize the wide-ranging impact of female researchers focusing on the development of robotics around the globe. The Robotics Medal is awarded to a nominated woman researcher in robotics to recognize her impactful contributions to the field and includes a $50K prize awarded to the individual. The Rising Star Medal recognizes up-and-coming women making strides and advancing the field of robotics and includes a $5K award given to the individual. The 3rd Annual MassRobotics Robotics Medal award, sponsored by Amazon Robotics, is presented to Dr. Maja Matarić, Chaired and Distinguished Professor of Computer Science, Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California,for her pioneering work in the field of socially assistive robots and for making significant advancements to the field of distributed robots and learning in human-robot systems. Dr. Tania Morimoto, Associate Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of California, San Diego, is awarded the MassRobotics Rising Star in Robotics Medal for her contributions to novel soft and flexible medical robots and human-machine interfaces designed to improve access to high-quality care. To encourage diversity in the field of robotics, Amazon established an endowment with MassRobotics in 2022 to support these annual awards. The purpose of The Robotics Medal is to not only celebrate individual achievements, but to inspire and encourage women and other underrepresented groups to participate in shaping the future of the world through robotics. 'As the founding sponsor of the Robotics Medal, we aim to recognize and honor female robotics professors around the globe who have made remarkable contributions to advancing robotics technology,' explained Tye Brady, who serves as both the chief technologist at Amazon Robotics and chairperson of MassRobotics' board. 'We are deeply grateful for the invaluable insights and educational contributions provided by both Dr. Matarić and Dr. Morimoto to our physical AI community and we're proud to support this recognition in honor of their achievements.' Since 2017, MassRobotics has grown from a Massachusetts-based incubator to a global robotics hub, helping support the adoption of robotics worldwide and providing startups with the resources needed to grow and scale. Of the current 95+ startups that MassRobotics houses at its facility in Boston, more than 50% are from out of state and 25% are from outside the U.S. MassRobotics hosts STEM and robotics initiatives specifically developed for high school women and continues to promote women in robotics through events and networking to ensure women are recognized and heard. Over the past five years the MassRobotics Jumpstart Fellowship program has graduated nearly 100 students who have since enrolled in notable universities including MIT, Harvard, Northeastern, Boston University, Stanford, Georgia Tech, University of Michigan, Purdue University, and the University of Massachusetts. Although strides are being made and women now make up 48 % of the total workforce, just 34% of the STEM workforce is made up of women, and only 16% are in engineering and robotics roles, according to the National Girls Collaborative Project. Nominations for these awards came from around the United States including Texas, Washington, Massachusetts, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, and Pennsylvania, as well as across the globe from countries including Canada, Japan, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, and India. Submissions spanned a wide range of robotic technology fields and areas of research, from new materials for gripping, exoskeletons and assistive technologies, human robot interaction, and motion planning. 'We were thrilled by the overwhelming number of qualified nominations we received and impressed with the diversity of robotic fields and research happening across the globe,' said Joyce Sidopoulos, cofounder at MassRobotics. 'It reflects the contributions women have made, and inspires the next generation who will make an impact in this expanding field touching nearly every industry.' The Robotics Medal and Rising Star recipients were selected by a committee of robotics experts, led by MassRobotics, which convened several times and methodically evaluated the significance, depth, and originality of technical contributions each nominee has made in the overall field of robotics. 'Robotics as a field advances most rapidly when it draws from diverse intellectual perspectives and technical approaches. The contributions of leading female researchers have been instrumental in solving some of the most challenging problems in our discipline,' said Daniela Rus, Director of the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) at MIT and member of the MassRobotics board. 'The Robotics Medal recognizes the exceptional scientific achievement and technical innovation that has fundamentally advanced the field.' A formal Gala awarding the medals and celebrating the recipients will be held in Boston at the MIT Samberg Conference Center on October 25, 2025. Tickets, reserved tables, and sponsorship opportunities for the event are available here. MassRobotics has created an endowment and welcomes contributions to support future cash prizes for The Robotics Medal. Contact [email protected] to learn about becoming an underwriter of The Robotics Medal. Nominations for the 2026 Robotics Medal and Rising Star are open until December 20th, 2025. More information can be found here. About MassRobotics MassRobotics is the world's largest independent robotics hub dedicated to accelerating robotics innovation, commercialization, and adoption. Our mission is to help create and scale the next generation of successful robotics and AI technology companies by providing entrepreneurs and startups with the workspace, resources, programming, and connections they need to develop, prototype, test, and commercialize their products and solutions. While MassRobotics originated and is headquartered in Boston, we reach and support robotics acceleration and adoption globally. We work with startups, academia, industry, and governments both domestically and internationally. See for details. CONTACT: Sayo Tirrell [email protected] SOURCE: MassRobotics press release
National Post
6 days ago
- Business
- National Post
Psycho Bunny Expands Its Tennis Presence with Multi-Year Partnership With Icon Andy Roddick
Article content Psycho Bunny announces a multi-year partnership with tennis legend Andy Roddick, marking a significant step in the brand's growing presence in the sport. Article content Article content MONTREAL — Menswear brand Psycho Bunny is proud to announce a multi-year partnership with tennis icon Andy Roddick, further establishing the brand's presence in the sport. The collaboration between the popular brand and the legendary American tennis player will bring Psycho Bunny's signature style and craftsmanship to a global audience. Article content Earlier this year, Psycho Bunny made its debut in the tennis world with a partnership featuring rising star Alexei Popyrin. Earlier this month, Psycho Bunny announced a partnership with tennis standout Arthur Rinderknech. Building on this momentum, the brand has further solidified its commitment to tennis through a multi-year partnership with the National Bank Open (NBO) as the official athletic outfitter and its ongoing collaborations with Popyrin and Rinderknech. Now, by teaming up with Roddick, Psycho Bunny strengthens its connection to the sport, bridging its rich history with an exciting future. As part of the collaboration, Roddick will advise on the brand's expanding presence in tennis and play a pivotal role in enhancing its credibility within the sport. This partnership underscores Psycho Bunny's unwavering support for both established players and emerging talent. Article content A former world No. 1 and US Open champion, Andy Roddick is one of the most influential figures in tennis. Known for his fierce competitive spirit and powerful game, Roddick's impact extends far beyond his playing days. As the host of Served, the #1 tennis podcast, he delivers sharp insights and candid conversations that shape the sport's discourse. Through his commentary, philanthropy, and commitment to growing tennis, he continues to inspire the next generation of athletes. Article content 'Tennis has given me so much, and I've always believed in pushing boundaries—both in competition and in life,' said Roddick. 'Psycho Bunny's magnetic vibe, with its boldness and edge, speaks to my personality perfectly. I'm all about embracing individuality, and this partnership feels like a great way to express that fun side of me. Let's make some noise!' Article content 'Andy isn't just a tennis legend—he's a disruptor, a trailblazer, and someone who has always done things his own way,' said Anna Martini, CEO of Psycho Bunny. 'That's exactly what Psycho Bunny stands for. We're thrilled to have him as a partner in celebrating tennis culture.' Article content This collaboration marks the next chapter in Psycho Bunny's ongoing journey in tennis. With global brand ambassador Andy Roddick leading the way, the brand continues to build on its commitment to the sport, carrying forward the same passion and dedication that have defined its efforts. Exciting developments lie ahead as Psycho Bunny further elevates its presence in the game. Article content Headquartered in Montreal, Psycho Bunny is a global premium clothing brand recognized for its bold designs, uncompromising quality, and iconic bunny logo. Since its founding in 2005, the brand has redefined modern style by blending classic sophistication with a playful, irreverent edge. Originally known for its premium polo shirts, Psycho Bunny has expanded to offer a full range of apparel and accessories for men, women, and children. With nearly 180 stores worldwide and a commitment to excellence, the brand is growing quickly, crafting elevated fashion from the world's finest materials. Article content In 2024, The Bold Standard was introduced—born out of Psycho Bunny's relentless commitment to consummate quality, striking design, and a thoroughly audacious, adventurous lifestyle. More than just fashion, it represents a state of mind, an attitude, an ethos, a mantra, a rallying cry, and a veritable religion—anchored by one thoroughly iconic Bunny logo. Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content
Perth Now
26-05-2025
- Sport
- Perth Now
Saints great labels Reid clear Rising Star favourite
St Kilda great Leigh Montagna says Fremantle's first-year sensation Murphy Reid should be the clear favourite for this year's Rising Star Award after another classy performance against Port Adelaide. Reid kicked four pivotal goals and collected 18 disposals as the Dockers disposed of the Power in the heavy rain at Optus Stadium on Saturday night, earning the 18-year-old his first haul of coaches votes with seven. The young gun slipped to pick 17 in last year's national draft, and Reid wasted no time making a number of recruiters regret their decision to pass over the talented Victorian. He booted an incredible four goals in six minutes on debut against the Cats in Geelong and, according to Champion Data, is No.1 for scoreboard impact, goals, and score assists while rating second for score involvements among all first and second-year AFL players. He earned his Rising Star nomination in round six for collecting 17 disposals and kicking a goal against Melbourne at the MCG. Speaking on Fox Footy, Montagna was full of praise for Reid. 'It was a great performance from Murphy Reid with the four goals, 18 disposals in the wet,' he said. 'When they say the class prevails and the talent really shines, this guy stood out like a beacon. He was able to kick four goals already the second time in his career. 'It's a very small group (who have achieved that in their first season). This is a pretty special player and for me, I think he should be the Rising Star favourite. 'Levi Ashcroft is having a great year, but I don't think he's impacting his Brisbane Lions like Murphy Reid is doing on this team.' Reid was adjudged the second-best player on the ground on Saturday in the AFL Coaches Association's player of the year award, behind only ruckman Luke Jackson, and told The West Australian the win showed the Dockers were beginning to 'mature'. 'We've felt we've competed well the last couple of weeks, and it was good to get a bit of recognition last week with a win on the board,' he told The West Australian. 'And we knew Port were going to come out hot as they did after a bit of a disappointing week, and it was great to win. 'It goes to show how mature we are as a side. They threw everything at us as we prepared for going into the game. Logan Evans of the Power closely marks Murphy Reid of the Dockers. Credit: Daniel Carson / AFL Photos 'They normally drive off a bit of emotion, and they came out ready to fire, and we feel like we took a couple of those punches and really made the most of our opportunities when we went forward. 'We're just just trying to stick to the game plan. It probably hasn't come off as much as we would have liked in the earlier weeks, but it's the same game plan we've had the whole year, and we're just loving playing in these big games.'
Perth Now
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Perth Now
‘A little bit more experience' will aid Saints: Lyon
St Kilda coach Ross Lyon is optimistic the injection of experience will rectify his side's recent midfield deficiency. Lyon omitted three young Saints – Hugo Garcia, Angus McLennan and Lance Collard – for the match with Gold Coast on Sunday. Ball-winner Jack Macrae will also miss the match with a punctured lung he sustained during last week's loss to West Coast. But the Saints have welcomed back duo Hunter Clark and Zak Jones to counter the Noah Anderson and Matt Rowell inspired Suns. Lyon says the addition of Clark and Jones offers 'more experience around the ball'. 'We're really thrilled, Hunter Clark has had an abdominal issue pre-Christmas, he's got back (and) is three games in,' he said. Zak Jones is a welcome addition for Ross Lyon's St Kilda. Mark Stewart Credit: News Corp Australia 'He's been a really good player for us and as has Zak Jones – his best is very, very good – and it just gives us a little bit more experience around the ball. 'We need to reward those performances and our midfield is an area we haven't been on top of our game. In the end we need to reward performances below.' Garcia has ridden the highs and lows of the AFL across the past month. The second-year Saint was issued some strong feedback against Brisbane, won a Rising Star nomination against Fremantle and faced the axe this week. Lyon says sending Garcia back to the VFL is a chance for him to show a bit of flair. 'The narrative was the clip, my narrative was feedback on action,' he said. 'One week you're coaching, next week you're sacked – it happens to all of us, it's the AFL, the AFL is a high-demand industry. 'He's a young player, second year, lots of footy, sometimes you've got to take some pressure off and let them go back (to the VFL) and express themselves.' Lyon hinted at more midfield minutes for Mattaes Phillipou last week but he struggled against the fired-up Eagles. St Kilda will look to implement him in a similar role to opponent Bailey Humphrey this week. 'Phillipou, we probably threw him to the wolves last week a little bit, and we want to give him a little bit through there, maybe a 50-50 split,' he said. 'We brought him in off no games, off a 14-week rehab because he's such a great preparer and he's still running quite well, but that up and down stuff, off the ground, just can be really challenging. 'We need to save him from himself sometimes, like (Bailey) Humphrey for them goes in and out and has an impact, that's the sort of player we see him as at the moment.'
