Meghan Markle’s new Netflix show, With Love, Meghan to debut on January 15th.
The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle has announced her new lifestyle and cooking show, With Love, Meghan, which will premiere on Netflix on January 15. In the eight-episode series, the former Suits star will share advice on flower arrangements, cooking, gardening, crafting, and entertainment. The show will feature appearances by chef Alice Waters, actress Mindy Kaling, and Meghan’s close friend and Suits co-star, Abigail Spencer. Prince Harry also makes a brief cameo in the trailer. Meghan described the project as a “huge thrill” on Instagram, adding her gratitude for the support she’s received. The series expands the Sussexes’ partnership with Netflix, following their 2022 docuseries Harry & Meghan. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, the couple has launched various ventures, including Meghan’s lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, and an upcoming Netflix series on professional polo, highlighting their growing independence.
Meghan Markle’s new Netflix show debuts January 15th. pic.twitter.com/MVl9CZWszx
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) January 2, 2025
Jeff Baena, husband of Aubrey Plaza, sadly passes away at age 47.
Filmmaker Jeff Baena, husband of actress Aubrey Plaza, has died at the age of 47. His body was reportedly discovered by an assistant at his Los Angeles home on Friday morning, January 3. Baena, known for directing films such as The Little Hours, Horse Girl, and Joshy, was pronounced dead shortly after. The cause of death remains unknown, pending the results of an autopsy. In a statement to Deadline, Baena’s family expressed their devastation and requested privacy during this difficult time. Baena and Plaza, who starred in The White Lotus and Parks and Recreation, married in 2021 and collaborated on multiple projects, including his debut film Life After Beth. Plaza has yet to comment publicly on her husband’s passing. Fans have shared condolences and tributes on social media, honoring Baena’s work and legacy.
Jeff Baena has sadly passed away at the age of 47.
He previously directed films including ‘Life After Beth’ and ‘The Little Hours’ pic.twitter.com/3VXII25BG9
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) January 4, 2025
Denzel Washington, others awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The US President Joe Biden awarded his final Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, to 19 exceptional individuals across various fields, including politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, and science. Among the honorees was actor Denzel Washington, celebrated for his roles in Glory and Training Day and his philanthropic contributions. Michael J. Fox, beloved for Back to the Future and his advocacy for Parkinson’s research, was also recognized. Other recipients included former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, U2’s Bono, designer Ralph Lauren, Science Guy Bill Nye, basketball legend, Magic Johnson, Vogue editor Anna Wintour, chef José Andrés, conservationist Jane Goodall, and football star Lionel Messi. “These extraordinary individuals have shaped American culture and advanced its cause,” said Biden during the ceremony. The Presidential Medal of Freedom honors outstanding contributions to society, culture, and global leadership.
Denzel Washington receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom.pic.twitter.com/PTXbCKZwum
— Complex (@Complex) January 4, 2025
SZA reveals she is under a contract with TDE to release two more albums.
RnB star, SZA has hinted at releasing two albums of “peaceful children’s music” to complete her current contractual obligations. The artist recently dropped Lana, a deluxe version of her 2022 album SOS, adding 15 new tracks to the original 23. While Lana showcased her signature R&B style, SZA hinted at shifting gears toward a simpler life after fulfilling her record deal commitments. On social media platform X, she wrote, “To fulfill my last 2 album requirements I think I just wanna make peaceful children’s music n get outta here. Then go be a farmer and donate the produce to underserved communities.” Both SOS and its 2017 predecessor Ctrl were released under Top Dawg Entertainment and RCA Records. While her contract details are unclear, fans can expect more updates, as SZA confirmed additional mixes and tracks will be added to the recently released deluxe on January 6.
SZA reveals she’s under a deal to make two more albums:
“I think I just wanna make peaceful children’s music n get outta here.” pic.twitter.com/4pW3Vk3fpS
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) January 4, 2025
Jennifer Lopez receives Variety’s Legend and Groundbreaker Award.
Singer and actress, Jennifer Lopez was honored with the Legend and Groundbreaker Award at Variety’s 10 Directors to Watch and Creative Impact Awards brunch at the Parker Palm Springs on Saturday. Recognized for her powerful performance in the film Unstoppable and her extraordinary career, Lopez delivered an emotional acceptance speech reflecting on her challenging journey to stardom. The globally acclaimed actress and singer spoke about overcoming societal and personal obstacles, saying, “I followed a burning passion against the advice of those who doubted me. How do you go from a Bronx tenement to starring in Hollywood movies when your circumstances, race, or gender make it seem impossible?” Lopez emphasized resilience, stating, “There is no straight path to success. We fall, rise, and build our destinies.” Her heartfelt speech came after her separation from Ben Affleck in 2024 due to irreconcilable differences.
Jennifer Lopez receives the Legend & Groundbreaker Award at the Variety Creative Impact Awards pic.twitter.com/2YvJEdkkDZ
— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) January 4, 2025
