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Top Stories on Gold Derby for December 30, 2024
Shifting Gears Unveils New Trailer
A new trailer has been released for the anticipated ABC comedy series Shifting Gears, set to premiere on January 8. The show features Kat Dennings as a mother attempting to rebuild her life while moving back in with her estranged father, portrayed by Tim Allen. This marks Allen’s third comedic role on ABC, previously starring in Home Improvement from 1991 to 1999 and Last Man Standing from 2011 to 2021 before it shifted to FOX for another three seasons. The series is the creation of Mike Scully and Julie Thacker Scully, both known for their work on The Simpsons, with Michelle Nader acting as showrunner.
Apple TV+ Offers Free Weekend
In an effort to attract new viewers, Apple TV+ will grant free access to its entire library from January 3 to January 5. This is an opportunity to explore popular shows such as Shrinking, Ted Lasso, and The Morning Show. Notably, the second season of Severance is set to premiere on January 17. Apple TV+ has made a name for itself with critically acclaimed films, including CODA, which won an Oscar for Best Picture, and Killers of the Flower Moon, directed by Martin Scorsese, which received ten nominations without wins. Their lineup for award contenders this year includes Blitz, a World War II drama from Steve McQueen.
Charges Filed in Connection to Liam Payne’s Tragic Death
According to BBC reports, former one-direction star Liam Payne tragically passed away at the age of 31 on October 16 after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. Argentine authorities have arrested five individuals regarding the incident. Charges include manslaughter against hotel manager Gilda Martin, receptionist Esteban Grassi, and a companion of Payne, Roger Nores. Meanwhile, two hotel staff, Ezequiel Pereyra and waiter Braian Paiz, are accused of providing Payne with narcotics. Toxicology results indicated the presence of alcohol, cocaine, and an antidepressant in his system at the time of death.
Jason Momoa Cast as Lobo in Upcoming DC Film
Actor Jason Momoa has been cast to portray the character Lobo, an alien bounty hunter, in the film Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, set to hit theaters on June 26, 2026. The film stars Milly Alcock as Supergirl and is helmed by Craig Gillespie, based on a screenplay by actress-writer Ana Nogueira. This release marks the second film in the revamped DC Universe, overseen by James Gunn and Peter Safran, following the new Superman film starring David Corenswet expected in July 2025. Previously, Momoa has portrayed Aquaman in various DC films, making him the first actor from the earlier franchise to continue in this new direction.
Linda Lavin Passes Away at Age 87
Beloved actress Linda Lavin died on December 29 after a battle with lung cancer. Lavin gained fame on television with roles in series such as Rhoda and Barney Miller, and is perhaps best known for her leading role in the sitcom Alice, which aired from 1976 to 1985, earning her an Emmy nomination in 1979. She won two Golden Globes for her performance during the late ’70s. Lavin’s talent extended to Broadway, where she starred in productions like Gypsy and The Diary of Anne Frank, receiving six Tony nominations throughout her career, winning Best Actress in a Play for Broadway Bound in 1987.
Jimmy Carter Passes Away at 100
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter died on December 29 at the remarkable age of 100, making him the longest-living president in U.S. history. In a statement from the White House, it was noted, “Today, America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian.” After serving one term from 1977 to 1981, Carter dedicated much of his life to philanthropy, notably with Habitat for Humanity, and was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize. He was also recognized for his literary work, receiving multiple Grammy awards for his audiobooks, and he is nominated this year for Best Audio Book for Last Sunday in Plains: A Centennial Celebration.
SZA Tops Billboard 200 Chart with SOS Deluxe: Lana
SZA has reclaimed the top spot on the Billboard 200 charts with her deluxe album SOS Deluxe: Lana, marking her return to number one after 22 months. She surpassed various holiday album releases, as the original SOS album, released in December 2022, enjoyed a remarkable run with ten weeks at the top. The deluxe edition includes 15 new tracks, contributing to a total of 178,000 equivalent album units for this latest chart week. Notably, after more than 100 weeks, SOS has consistently remained within the top 20.
In other news, holiday music continues to dominate the charts, with Michael Bublé’s Christmas landing at No. 2, followed by Bing Crosby’s Ultimate Christmas at No. 3. Additional holiday albums making waves include Nat King Cole’s The Christmas Song, Mariah Carey’s Merry Christmas, and Frank Sinatra’s Ultimate Christmas, which reached a record high at No. 10.
Wicked and A Real Pain Available Digitally
As the competition for the Golden Globe for Best Picture, Musical/Comedy heats up, two notable films are set for digital release on December 31. Wicked, the eagerly awaited adaptation of the Broadway musical, will be available for purchase with bonus features—including sing-along versions and behind-the-scenes footage. Similarly, A Real Pain, a film about cousins reconnecting in Poland, will also offer a making-of feature in its digital release, as both contend for recognition at the Golden Globes.
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