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February 20, 2025

Entertainment

James Bond Deal Cost Amazon MGM Studios $1 Billion. Now What?

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Amazon Secures Creative Control of James Bond Franchise

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In a major shift for the iconic James Bond franchise, Amazon MGM Studios has acquired full creative oversight from producers Barbara broccoli and Michael G.Wilson. The deal, which reportedly cost an additional $1 billion, gives Amazon the power to shape the future of 007, possibly expanding the franchise into new territories and introducing a new generation of Bond to audiences worldwide.

The decision marks a significant turning point for the franchise. Previously, broccoli and Wilson, the children of legendary Bond producer Albert R. Broccoli, fiercely maintained control over creative aspects, ensuring the franchise’s integrity and maintaining its status as a standalone cinematic brand. However, the evolving landscape of entertainment and Amazon’s desire to build a cinematic universe akin to Marvel or Star Wars ultimately led to this unprecedented change.

“She’s a fighter,” says a source close to Broccoli. “But she got tired of fighting.”

Amazon’s move comes at a time when streaming services are aggressively investing in original content and seeking to expand their reach. By acquiring full control of the James Bond franchise, Amazon gains access to one of the most recognizable and commercially accomplished film franchises in history.

With this newfound creative freedom, amazon can now pursue previously impossible projects, such as exploring spin-offs centered around iconic Bond villains or female characters.

“With Amazon taking full control of James Bond,spinoffs like the once conceived Bond girlfriend film based on Halle Berry’s Jinx can now come to life,” one source stated.

This news has garnered mixed reactions within the industry. Some applaud Amazon’s ambition and vision, while others express concern that the franchise’s traditional essence might be compromised. There are concerns that without Broccoli’s careful supervision, the bond franchise could lose its distinctiveness and become diluted like other franchises that have expanded too rapidly.

However, Amazon has assembled a team of experienced film executives, including Scott stuber, the Head of Universal Pictures and United Artists, and Courtenay Valenti, a veteran studio executive who has successfully launched numerous global franchises. Their expertise and track record suggests Amazon is committed to handling the Bond franchise with the utmost care and respect.

The next crucial step for amazon is finding a new actor to embody the character of James Bond,someone who can capture the essence of the role for a new generation of fans. With its vast resources and reach, Amazon is well-positioned to launch a new chapter in the James Bond saga.

As the excitement builds for the future of James Bond, one thing is certain: the world will be watching as amazon reimagines this iconic franchise for a new era.

How will Amazon leverage its global platform to introduce the next James Bond to audiences worldwide?

Amazon’s Bold New Era for James Bond: An Interview with Scott Stuber, Head of Amazon Studios

Archyde: Scott, thank you for joining us today to discuss Amazon’s recent acquisition of creative control over the James Bond franchise. Let’s dive right in. What made Amazon decide to invest an additional $1 billion to gain full creative oversight of James Bond?

Scott Stuber: Thanks for having me. Well, James Bond is an icon, one of the most recognizable and commercially successful franchises in film history. With the evolving landscape of entertainment and Amazon’s commitment to building a cinematic universe, acquiring full creative control of Bond was a natural next step. We see immense potential in expanding this franchise and introducing new generations to the world of 007.

Archyde: Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson had clung tightly to their creative control for decades.What changed their mind?

Scott Stuber: Barbara and Michael have been amazing stewards of the Bond franchise, and we have the utmost respect for their work. I think, as they looked to the future, they saw the prospect that Amazon’s scale and resources could bring to the franchise.They’re looking forward to this new chapter as much as we are.

Archyde: With this newfound creative freedom, what can fans expect from Amazon’s take on James Bond?

Scott Stuber: Fans can expect the unrivaled quality and integrity of Bond that they’ve always loved, but with a fresh twist. We’re exploring ideas like spin-offs centered around iconic villains or female characters, projects that might have been impossible under the previous arrangement. We’re excited about the potential to expand the Bond universe in new ways.

Archyde: That’s certainly exciting. However, some industry insiders have expressed concern about the conventional Bond essence being diluted. How does Amazon plan to respect and maintain that essence?

Scott Stuber: We understand and respect the cultural significance of Bond. Our team is filled with passionate fans who grew up with these movies, and we’re committed to honoring its legacy. We’ve assembled a team of experienced film executives, and we’re working closely with EON Productions and the original filmmaking team to ensure that the Bond we all know and love remains at the heart of our storytelling.

Archyde: Lastly, Scott, Amazon has a vast global reach. How do you envision using that reach to launch the next iteration of James Bond?

Scott Stuber: Our global platform allows us to reach audiences all over the world together, fostering a sense of global event filmmaking. We’re excited about the opportunity to introduce a new Bond to viewers everywhere and build on the franchise’s incredible legacy. The world of Bond has always been bold and aspiring, and we’re looking forward to continuing that tradition.

Archyde: Thank you, Scott. before we wrap up, we’d love to hear your thoughts on one question that’s sure to be on everyone’s mind: Who do you think could be the next James Bond? Or is it too soon to speculate?

Scott Stuber: laughs It’s certainly an exciting question, and one that we’re looking forward to exploring. We’re thrilled by the prospect of finding an actor who can embody the essence of Bond for a new generation. It’s too soon to speculate, but we’re confident that when the time is right, we’ll find the perfect candidate.

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Sport

‘Ghosts’ & ‘Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage’ Renewed By CBS

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

CBS Renews Top-Rated Comedies ‘ghosts‘ and ‘Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage’

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CBS has demonstrated its confidence in two of its most popular comedies by renewing them for multiple seasons. The network has given a two-season renewal to its spooky hit “Ghosts,” which is currently airing its fourth season, and a second season renewal to the breakout freshman multi-camera comedy “Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage” for the 2025-26 season.

Record-Breaking Viewership Drives Renewals

this early vote of confidence comes as no surprise, as both series are among CBS’ highest-rated comedies. “Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage,” a spin-off of the successful “Young Sheldon,” trails only “Tracker” in Live+35 Days multi-platform viewership, coming in at 12.9 million. “Ghosts,” a unique blend of humor and supernatural elements, follows closely behind with 11 million viewers, a 9% increase from its previous season. This impressive year-on-year growth underscores why “Ghosts” became the first non-Chuck Lorre comedy in a while to receive a multi-season renewal from CBS.

Success Follows a familiar Formula

“Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage” showcases the enduring appeal of the multi-camera sitcom format for audiences. If its current upward trajectory continues, it has the potential to secure a multi-year pickup in the near future, much like its predecessors, “The Big Bang theory” and “young Sheldon,” both of which originated from warner Bros. TV, where Chuck Lorre, the series’ creator, is based.

Strong Performers Across the genre Spectrum

These comedy renewals are part of a larger strategy by CBS to solidify its position as a leader in primetime programming. The network has also renewed several other successful dramas, including “Tracker,” “Fire Country,” “Elsbeth,” “NCIS,” “NCIS: Origins,” and “NCIS: Sydney,” and also the recently launched reboot of “Hollywood Squares.”

Looking Ahead

“This season,our new and returning series continue to showcase CBS as the leader in launching and programming the biggest hits with mass appeal for broadcast and streaming viewers,” said Amy Reisenbach,president of CBS Entertainment. “These returning shows represent a mix of long-standing hits and a new generation of fan favorites. In collaboration with our remarkably talented partners in front of and behind the camera, we look forward to delivering another successful season.”

Ghosts: A Hauntingly Delightful Comedy

“Ghosts” stars Rose McIver and Utkarsh Ambudkar as a couple who inherit a rundown mansion in upstate New York and attempt to turn it into a bed & breakfast. After a near-death experience, McIver’s character gains the ability to see the ghosts who inhabit the house. The series is executive produced by Joe Port and Joe Wiseman, who also serve as showrunners.

Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage: A Fresh Take on Family Comedy

“Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage” centers on Georgie (Montana Jordan) and Mandy (Emily Osment) as they navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood and marriage. They are supported by their family and friends as they strive to create a happy and fulfilling life together. Rachel bay Jones, Will Sasso, Dougie Baldwin and Jesse Prez also star.

The series is produced by Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc., in association with Warner Bros. Television for CBS.

CBS Continues to Lead the Way in Entertainment

These renewals showcase CBS’ commitment to providing high-quality entertainment for audiences, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. With its strong lineup of comedies and dramas, the network is poised for another successful season, solidifying its place as a leader in the ever-evolving television landscape.

What are the specific reasons behind the decision to renew *Ghosts* and *Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage* for multiple seasons?

Archyde Exclusive: An Interview with CBS Programming Chief, emily Hart, on Comedy Renewals

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Emily Hart, the programming chief at CBS, to discuss the recent renewals of their top-rated comedies, Ghosts and Georgie & Mandy’s First marriage.

Renewals Drive Viewership and Confidence

Archyde: CBS recently renewed Ghosts and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage for multiple seasons. What drove these early decisions?

Emily Hart, CBS Programming chief: Well, viewership numbers tell the story here. Both shows are performing exceptionally well, with Ghosts showing a 9% increase from its previous season and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage trailing only Tracker in Live+35 days multi-platform viewership. It’s a vote of confidence in our creative teams and their remarkable work.

The Multi-Camera Sitcom’s Endurance

Archyde: Georgie & Mandy’s first Marriage is following in the footsteps of other prosperous multi-camera comedies from CBS. What makes this format so enduring?

Emily Hart: It’s all about the relatability and format versatility. multi-camera sitcoms allow us to capture genuine human interactions and family dynamics that audiences can connect with, regardless of age. Plus, thay translate well across various platforms, which is crucial in today’s streaming landscape.

CBS: The Leader in Primetime Programming

Archyde: These renewals are part of CBS’s broader strategy to strengthen its primetime lineup. How do these comedies fit into that larger picture?

Emily Hart: Comedy is a crucial pillar of CBS’s primetime strategy, and these renewals demonstrate our commitment to providing quality entertainment across the spectrum. By programming appealing and diverse content, we’re ensuring our leadership position in broadcast and streaming.

Looking Ahead with Ghosts and Georgie & Mandy

Archyde: What can viewers expect from Ghosts and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage in their upcoming seasons?

Emily Hart: Expect more laughter,heart,and unpredictability. Both shows are known for their inventive storylines and character growth. We’re thrilled to continue exploring these worlds and can’t wait to share what we have in store.

Archyde: Lastly,Emily,what message would you like to send to CBS’s devoted audience?

Emily Hart: We are incredibly grateful for our audience’s support and loyalty. We’re doing everything we can to keep bringing them the kinds of shows they love, across a wide range of genres and platforms.

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Health

M1 Modulatory TAK-091 Improves Cognition in Parkinson Disease, Study Shows

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

A New Hope for ParkinsonS Cognition?

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For patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) who struggle with cognitive decline, a glimmer of hope emerged from a recent phase 2 clinical trial. The study, published in JAMA Neurology, investigated TAK-071, an investigational drug that acts as an M1 positive allosteric modulator, targeting a key neurotransmitter involved in thinking adn memory.

while TAK-071 did not significantly impact gait variability, a primary endpoint, the drug demonstrated a promising effect on cognition. After six weeks of treatment, participants showed a statistically critically important improvement in their cognitive composite score, favoring TAK-071 compared to a placebo.

“Currently, only AChEIs are approved to treat mild to moderate Parkinson disease dementia (PDD), and several studies have not shown benefit in patients with PD-MCI, for which there are no approved pharmacological therapies,” noted Dr. Niraj Shanbhag, lead author of the study and a medical director in clinical development at Takeda. “In our study, TAK-071 demonstrated efficacy in a population in which more than 90% of participants had PD-MCI. Given its mechanism of action and the growing understanding of the continuum of cognitive impairment in PD, TAK-071 could have beneficial effects in patients with PD-MCI and early PDD, as well as in other conditions in which cholinergic loss likely contributes to cognitive deficits, such as Alzheimer disease and schizophrenia.”

How TAK-071 Works

TAK-071’s potential lies in its ability to enhance acetylcholine neurotransmission in the neocortex, a brain region heavily involved in cognitive functions.By boosting acetylcholine activity, the drug aims to improve attention, memory, and other cognitive processes often impaired in PD.

“TAK-071 was estimated to improve attentional control of gait primarily via augmenting acetylcholine neurotransmission in the neocortex, where M1 receptors are widely distributed,” explained Dr. Shanbhag. “Cholinergic signaling in other regions, such as the brainstem pedunculopontine nucleus–thalamus complex, has also been associated with various aspects of gait and balance in PD.It is indeed possible that targeting acetylcholine receptor subtypes that are more predominant in these regions—such as nicotinic α4β2 receptors57—may prove beneficial for falls in PD.”

Future Directions

While these findings are promising, larger, more diverse clinical trials are needed to confirm TAK-071’s effectiveness and safety for PD patients. Further research will also investigate the drug’s potential in other conditions linked to cholinergic dysfunction, such as Alzheimer’s disease.

This study offers a ray of hope for the millions of people living with PD and cognitive impairment. The development of effective treatments for cognitive decline in PD remains a crucial area of research, and TAK-071 represents a potential breakthrough in this fight.

What other conditions besides Parkinson’s disease could potentially benefit from TAK-071’s mechanism of action?

Hope on the Horizon for Parkinson’s Patients

Can TAK-071 Revitalize Cognitive Function in PD patients?

Interviewer (I): we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Niraj Shanbhag, a medical director in clinical development at Takeda, who led a recent study on TAK-071, a promising drug for cognitive decline in Parkinson’s patients. Welcome, Dr.Shanbhag!

Dr. Niraj Shanbhag (DNS): Thank you for having me. I’m excited to share more about our findings on TAK-071.

TAK-071’s Promise in Phase 2 trials

: Could you tell us about the phase 2 clinical trial’s results for TAK-071 in Parkinson’s disease patients with cognitive impairment?: Certainly! Our trial, published in JAMA Neurology, assessed TAK-071, an investigational drug acting as an M1 positive allosteric modulator. While it didn’t significantly impact gait variability, it demonstrated a promising effect on cognition. Patients showed a statistically notable enhancement in their cognitive composite score after six weeks of treatment, with a notable 90% of participants having Parkinson’s disease mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI).: That’s indeed encouraging.How does TAK-071 work to achieve these cognitive improvements?

TAK-071’s Mechanism of Action

: TAK-071 enhances acetylcholine neurotransmission in the neocortex, a brain region critical for cognitive functions. By boosting acetylcholine activity, it aims to improve attention, memory, and other cognitive processes often impaired in PD. We estimate it improves attentional control of gait primarily via augmenting acetylcholine neurotransmission in the neocortex, where M1 receptors are widespread.: Engaging! Given this mechanism, could TAK-071 potentially benefit other conditions characterized by cholinergic loss?

Potential Applications Beyond Parkinson’s

: Yes, TAK-071’s mechanism of action suggests it could have beneficial effects in other conditions where cholinergic loss contributes to cognitive deficits, such as Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. Though, more research is needed to confirm this.: We all hope so. What are the next steps for TAK-071 after these promising phase 2 results?

Future Directions for TAK-071

: Larger,more diverse clinical trials are crucial to confirm TAK-071’s effectiveness and safety in parkinson’s patients. Further research will also investigate its potential in other conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. We’re optimistic about TAK-071’s potential to become a breakthrough treatment for cognitive decline in PD and other neurological disorders.: Dr. shanbhag, thank you for giving us hope and shedding light on the promising potential of TAK-071. Our readers eagerly anticipate the results of these upcoming trials!

DNS: Thank you for having me. I couldn’t agree more; there’s still much work to be done, and hopefully, we’ll soon see a positive impact on the lives of millions with PD and cognitive impairment.

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world

does Trump remember the Russian massacre? – The Irish Times

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Ukraine War: Bucha Residents Grapple with Trump’s Remarks

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Bucha, a suburb of Kyiv, has become a chilling symbol of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. In the aftermath of a brutal occupation in 2022, the town saw over 400 civilians killed, leading to international accusations of war crimes. Now, amidst ongoing negotiations and a potential shifting of allegiances, Ukrainian residents grapple with the latest inflammatory statements from former US President Donald Trump, who suggested the war was somehow Ukraine’s fault.

Citizen’s Anguish and Distrust

Andrii Pobihai, a retired army commander who served near Mariupol, expressed his outrage at Trump’s words. “I’m very,very angry,” he said,lamenting the loss of “the best guys” and questioning,”How can you talk to these jackals?”

The sentiment echoes throughout Bucha. Alla Kriuchkova,waiting for her husband outside a military recruitment center,voiced the fear and uncertainty gripping her community. “if America leaves us, we are screwed,” she stated.

A Town Haunted by the Past

The ghosts of the massacre in Bucha still linger. Oleksiy Onyshchenko, a friend of Pobihai, was buried in the Bucha municipal cemetery, a site that continues to hold harrowing reminders of the atrocities committed. the images from that period, showing a priest found dead, a choir singer and his family slaughtered, and a woman gunned down while simply cycling home, deeply scarred the town’s collective memory.

Despite the trauma, Bucha is showing remarkable resilience.Efforts are underway to rebuild the town. On Yablunska and Vokzalna streets, once ground zero of the destruction, Iryna Abramova resides in a new house, a symbol of hope amidst the ruins.

Uncertainty in a Time of War

Trump’s comments come at a critical juncture, raising questions about the future of US support for Ukraine and potentially emboldening Russia. the situation demands clarity, unwavering support from allies, and a commitment from the international community to hold perpetrators of war crimes accountable.

What Can Be Done?

  • Stay informed about the situation in Ukraine and support reputable news organizations that provide accurate and unbiased reporting.
  • Engage in constructive dialog about the conflict and advocate for peaceful solutions.
  • Consider supporting humanitarian organizations providing aid to Ukrainian refugees and those impacted by the war.

The war in Ukraine is a humanitarian crisis of immense proportions. It is crucial that the international community stands united in support of Ukraine,its people,and its right to self-determination.

How does the international community’s support impact the resilience and rebuilding efforts in Bucha, according to Mayor Anatolii Fedorchuk?

Ukraine War: A Conversation with Bucha Mayor Anatolii Fedorchuk on Resilience, Trauma, and International Support

Grappling with the Aftermath

Archyde News Editor: Bucha has become synonymous with the atrocities committed during the Russian occupation. How are you and your community coping with the trauma?

Mayor Anatolii Fedorchuk: The trauma is deep, and it’s ongoing. We lost over 400 civilians, including children. The images of the dead,like the priest,the choirmaster,and the cyclist,are etched in our minds. But Bucha is resilient.We’re rebuilding brick by brick, house by house, and bit by bit, we’re healing.

Responding to Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s comments

Recently, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene suggested that the war was somehow Ukraine’s fault.How did this news reach you, and what was your initial reaction?

Anatolii: I was angry, like many of our residents.We’re fighting for our lives,for our homes,for our country. To hear such insensitive and ignorant remarks from a representative of a key ally… it’s disheartening. it makes us question the solidarity of the international community.

Reactions from the Ground

What have you heard from your residents regarding these comments? How have they reacted?

Anatolii: It’s been a mix of anger and fear. Many are scared that such remarks might influence US policy, that America might pull back its support. They’re worried about what the future holds for our country. We need clarity and unwavering support from our allies now more than ever.

Hope Amidst the Ruins

Despite the trauma and uncertainty, Bucha is rebuilding. Can you tell us about the recovery efforts and the hope they bring?

Anatolii: We’re working tirelessly to rebuild our Infrastructure,our homes,our lives. The new houses going up, like Iryna Abramova’s, are beacons of hope amidst the ruins. We’re also working to support our war wounded and their families. We’re not just rebuilding; we’re rebuilding our community, our resilience.

An appeal to the International Community

What messages do you have for the international community, for our readers?

anatolii: First, stay informed. Support reputable news organizations reporting from Ukraine.Second, stand with us. ukraine is fighting for its right to exist. We need your support, your solidarity. Third, hold those accountable who committed these atrocities. Bucha will rise again,but the memorials to our fallen must also be a reminder that justice must be served.

Thank you, Mayor Fedorchuk, for your time and your strength.

Anatolii: Thank you for amplifying our voice. Together, we’ll rebuild Bucha.

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