Quantcast
Channel: TV
Viewing all 7868 articles
Browse latest View live

Ryan Seacrest reveals how he landed the 'American Idol' hosting job that made his career at age 28

0
0

Ryan Seacrest of “American Idol” fame shares the story of how he first got his gig as the show's host. Following is a transcript of the video.

ALYSON SHONTELL: Take me back to getting the first “Idol” gig. And that was really your breakthrough moment, it seemed like. How did you audition for it? Walk me through that process of landing that in the first place.

RYAN SEACREST: There was already a host for the show and I auditioned to be the co-host and I remember they were looking for people — around the country they were doing auditions for the host and as I went into one meeting, they actually started the meeting by talking to me about being a judge for the show and I said, “let me audition to be a host.” And I auditioned, and I got the job and then I got asked back. So, and it happened very fast. I remember I auditioned on a Friday and I think I started working on a Saturday. Nothing ever happens as planned.

Well, I mean, Simon — he created the show and he created a show with a certain vision and I think my job has always been and, and is to be someone that that moves something along, but also the key to being a part of it and being a successful part of it is also not putting yourself in front of everything, too.

I mean like I lay back, I stand back, let moments happen. And, I'm not the star of the show. The artist that is competing to win is the star of the show. And once you understand that dynamic then hopefully you get to stick around.

SHONTELL: One thing I read in The Hollywood Reporter piece was that there was actually some fierce salary negotiations going on. At one point you maybe thought about walking away with removing your name from being in consideration. So, talk me through the salary negotiations and tips you might have for helping others get what they need.

SEACREST: Well, I think the priority in anything is always the product and the quality of the product and that has been at the top of the list ever since we've talked about bringing back “Idol” — ever since I said on “Idol” at the end, “for now, goodbye for now.” So that's been what we've been focused on the most and I think that when you, when you have a, a great show, a great product, great storytelling, then it works and that's what we're focused on, so.

SHONTELL:  But you didn't answer my negotiations for salary thing.

SEACREST: I’m negotiating the answer.

SHONTELL:  Okay, fine. I'll let you skirt around that one just because we are short on time. You're lucky.

 

Join the conversation about this story »


Game of Thrones uses real fire when bringing battles to life

'Game of Thrones' season 7 just delivered the first major character death and fans are praising the scene

0
0

25 joffrey

Warning: Spoilers ahead for "Game of Thrones" season seven, episode three, "The Queen's Justice."

Revenge is a dish best served in a goblet full of poison, according to Jaime Lannister. Sunday's episode of "Game of Thrones" came with a surprising ending when Jaime Lannister and his army attacked House Tyrell's castle, Highgarden. When Jaime found Olenna he handed her a poisoned drink, which she accepted without protest. 

But before she died, Olenna made sure to get the last word in. She let Jaime know she was responsible for Joffrey's brutal death. 

"I'd hate to die like your son. Clawing at my neck, foam and bile spilling from my mouth, eyes blood red, skin purple," Olenna said. "Must have been horrible for you, as a Kingsguard, as a father. It was horrible enough for me. A shocking scene. Not at all what I intended. You see, I'd never seen the poison work before. Tell Cersei. I want her to know it was me."

Olenna Tyrell Game of Thrones season six finale

Though the seventh season of "Game of Thrones" has been anything but bloodless, so far the characters getting the axe were mostly secondary. But Lady Olenna, the Queen of Thorns, was a beloved part of the cast and the last remaining member of House Tyrell. Her demise is a major game changer, but fans are raising their glasses to Olenna Tyrell tonight.

Olenna's death is another major blow to Daenerys' team of allies. First she lost Yara Greyjoy and Ellaria Sand (and the Sand Snakes), and now one of her wisest counselors is gone. Just last episode, Olenna advised Daenerys to "be a dragon," so perhaps we'll see Daenerys heed that advice in the wake of her death.

Olenna Tyrell Game of Thrones season seven

This might also be added motivation for Daenerys to ally herself with Jon Snow. Their first ever conversation had fans buzzing (and by buzzing we mean freaking out), so this could be one more thing that brings them closer to joining forces for the greater good.

Though we're sad Olenna won't be around to deliver any biting quips or witty comebacks, at least her final moments were just as badass as the rest of her scenes on the series.

Finally hearing Olenna confess to conspiring for Joffrey's murder was brutal, given how much Jaime truly cared for the boy plus the fact that Tyrion very nearly died thanks to Olenna letting him take the fall for the regicide.

joffrey dies game of thrones season four

It's also interesting that Jaime could now tell Cersei that Tyrion had nothing to do with Joffrey's death, just as he'd been saying all along. But we'll have to wait until next week to see how Jaime handles the fallout of killing Olenna. Will he continue to be Cersei's war lapdog?

Cersei certainly doled out plenty of the queen's justice on this episode, but we're hoping her brutal reign doesn't continue going this smoothly for long. Jaime is long overdue for becoming disenfranchised with his sister/lover, especially if the fan theory about her prophesied death is going to come true.

"Game of Thrones" season seven continues August 6 on HBO.

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: 7 details you might have missed on season 7 episode 3 of 'Game of Thrones'

'Game of Thrones' teased one of the most long-awaited reunions in the next trailer and most fans missed it

0
0

arya game of thrones season seven premiere hbo

Warning: Spoilers ahead for "Game of Thrones" season seven, episode three, "The Queen's Justice."

"Game of Thrones" fans have long waited for the Starks to be together again in Winterfell. And while we got a brief tease of the family reunion between Sansa and Bran, most people missed that an even bigger reunion was coming next week. 

In the teaser for season seven, episode four "The Spoils of War," fans were given a quick glimpse of Arya Stark approaching Winterfell, her family home. The youngest Stark daughter was heading south to King's Landing before her old friend Hot Pie informed her that her half-brother, Jon, was named King in the North.

game of thrones arya winterfell hbo

Though Arya didn't appear in this most recent episode, the preview shows Arya from behind as she looks towards Winterfell, a home she hasn't seen since Ned brought her and Sansa south to King's Landing in season one.

Since her father's death, Arya has had a rough go of it. She's traveled along the Kingsroad as a boy, been taken captive at Harrenhal, was captured by the Brotherhood without Banners before becoming a captive of Sandor "The Hound" Clegane, and finally learned to become one of the Faceless Men at the House of Black and White in Braavos. 

Arya and Ned Stark Talking Game of Thrones

But Arya never forgot who she really was. After finally killing the Waif in season six, Arya returns to the House of Black and White to confront Jaqen in the Hall of Faces. "Finally a girl is no one," Jaqen says after Arya confronts him for ordering her to be killed.

"A girl is Arya Stark of Winterfell, and I'm going home,"she corrects him.

Since then, Arya has returned to Westeros, murdered Walder Frey and his entire male bloodline, and briefly reunited with her direwolf, Nymeria. Slowly but surely, she's on her way back to her roots — and avenging her family along the way.

Arya Stark

Now, at long last, Arya will be reunited with what's left of her family in Winterfell: Her sister Sansa, who is currently leading the North while Jon is away; Bran, who finally made it back to Winterfell in episode three; and Jon, who is currently mining dragonglass from beneath Dragonstone. 

This will be the first time the Stark siblings have been together since season one. And after the awkward family reunion between Sansa and Bran, we're hoping Sansa may finally find some comfort in her long-lost sister.

This would also mean that it's the first time that real-life best friends Maisie Williams (Arya) and Sophie Turner (Sansa) finally get to film together again. Turner told INSIDER that the two friends still get to see each other while filming because they are generally in the same area. 

"Well I haven't worked with her since season one, but we all shoot in Belfast," Turner said. "So we have sleepovers whenever we're in Belfast at the same time. She's my best friend, she's my soul mate. I love that girl to pieces."

We can't wait to see Arya make it back to Winterfell and to see the Stark family (hopefully) back together again. 

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: 7 details you might have missed on season 7 episode 3 of 'Game of Thrones'

The most talked-about moments from this week's 'Game of Thrones'

0
0

Olenna Tyrell Game of Thrones season seven

Warning: Spoilers ahead for "Game of Thrones" season seven, episode three "The Queen's Justice."

Fire and ice finally collided on the newest episode of "Game of Thrones."

Daenerys Targaryen met Jon Snow (and fans went wild), Sansa and Bran had another Stark reunion, and Olenna Tyrell gave one of the best farewell's in "Game of Thrones" history.

 

But which moments had fans talking the most?

Social-media monitoring platform Brandwatch found nearly 29,000 "Thrones"-related mentions on Twitter during the hour and five minutes it aired on HBO, and identified the scenes when conversation peaked.

Here are the five most talked-about moments from the latest "Game of Thrones" episode:

5. People could not stop talking about Sansa taking charge at Winterfell and many wondered who was waiting at the gate for her.

9:46 p.m. ET — Around 600 mentions

After Jon Snow journeyed south with Davos to meet Daenerys Targaryen and hopefully mine some of her dragonglass, he left Sansa in charge at Winterfell where she dutifully took note of how much food was available to feed the castle with winter fast approaching and oversaw the making of armor.

Not only that, but fans got their first Stark reunion between Sansa and Bran. Unfortunately, many were hoping a different Stark sibling would walk through the door.



4. A lot of fans were simply thrilled that "Game of Thrones" was back again and that Jon and Davos had arrived at Dragonstone.

9:02 p.m. ET — Around 630 mentions

Their tense arrival on the beach, surrounded by Dothraki and with their weapons taken from them, was made all the better with a reunion between Jon Snow and Tyrion Lannister. 

Here was the amazing dialogue if you want to relive a little bit of the magic:

Tyrion: "The bastard of Winterfell."

Jon: "The dwarf of Casterly Rock."

Tyrion: "I believe we last saw each other atop the Wall."

Jon: "You were pissing off the edge, if I remember right."

We were all excited.



3. Fans were overwhelmed to see Sansa and Bran together again — and had feelings about their bizarre reunion.

9:48 p.m. ET — Around 630 mentions

"Game of Thrones" fans have long been waiting for a Stark sibling reunion after the family was torn asunder in season one. Both Sansa and Bran have not had easy lives since they last saw one another. Sansa has been married to two different men, tortured by the late King Joffrey, and become a political pawn that was used and abused throughout the past seven seasons.

For his part, Bran has fled from Winterfell, journeyed beyond the Wall, seen the White Walkers, and watched as his direwolf Summer and faithful servant Hordor were brutally killed by wights.

Seeing them together was emotional for the viewers and for Sansa, but Bran seemed unmoved. As Isaac Hempstead Wright told INSIDER, he's a completely different character now that he's the Three-Eyed Raven.

 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

11 details you might have missed on the latest 'Game of Thrones' episode

0
0

Daenerys Targaryen Jon Snow Game of Thrones season 7 episode 3

Warning: Spoilers ahead for "Game of Thrones" season seven.

The seventh season of "Game of Thrones" charged ahead with a jam-packed episode, but as usual there were smaller moments and callbacks fans might have missed. From added subtext in Olenna's mic-drop death scene to the teasing of the mysterious catspaw blade, we're breaking down every scene.

Keep reading for a look at 11 details in "The Queen's Justice" you might have missed.

SEE ALSO: 'Game of Thrones' season 7 just delivered the first major character death and fans are praising the scene

Jon Snow was startled by a dragon right after proclaiming he wasn't a Stark — foreshadowing much?

Most of the fandom knows by now that Jon Snow is actually half Targaryen. His father was Rhaegar Targaryen (Daenerys' brother) and his mother was Lyanna Stark (Ned Stark's sister). The shock of his first encounter with a dragon felt like a nod towards audience members in the know.

His blood relation to Daenerys is part of the reason fans are against the idea of a romance blossoming between Jon and Daenerys, but Targaryens are known for their incestuous relations.



The Dothraki man overseeing Jon and Davos' arrival is the same one who first brought Daenerys to his khal as a captive.

Qhono (played by Staz Nair) is the Dothraki character who took Longclaw from Jon Snow when Missandei requested the Stark emissary relinquish their weapons.

 



If he looked vaguely familiar, Qhono was a prominent part of Daenerys' time as a Dothraki captive on the sixth season.

Qhono has come a long way since threatening to rape Daenerys Targaryen on the sixth season — now he's one of her most trusted Dothraki soldiers. The Mother of Dragons had him on the beach when Jon and Davos arrived, and then later ordered him to show the "guests" to their chambers.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

John Oliver slammed Alex Jones for the way he finances his show

0
0

John Oliver Alex Jones HBO final

After taking most of July off, HBO's "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver" came back Sunday night. And boy, did he have to catch up on a lot.

Though the show could have dedicated its entire half hour to what happened in the past week — Jared Kushner's prepared speech at the White House, the explosive interview that new White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci gave to The New Yorker, and the ouster of White House chief of staff Reince Priebus — Oliver instead looked at the radio host Alex Jones.

The "Infowars" host has climbed to conservative media prominence through explosive claims that go viral, such as that chemicals in our water are turning frogs gay, or ones that have made him infamous, such as that the Sandy Hook school shooting in 2012 was a hoax.

But Oliver looked past all that to delve into something else Jones does a lot on his show: shill merchandise. Oliver said that in one week of Jones' recent broadcasts, he spent nearly a quarter of the time either talking about or playing ads for his products. And he has a lot of them.

The "Infowars" store has survival gear, organic shampoo and soaps, and even a Bill Clinton rape whistle. ("Last Week Tonight" bought this item, and Oliver said it came with a complimentary "9-11 Was an Inside Job" bumper sticker.)

John Oliver Alex Jones 2 HBO finalRadio hosts doing ads is nothing new, but Oliver said that since 2013, Jones had been focusing on his vitamins and other supplements. Two-thirds of his funding reportedly comes from marketing his products, which range from vitality drugs to "Caveman," a paleo-formula chocolate drink with bone broth. It sounds awful, and Oliver bought it, tried it on air, and confirmed it tastes awful, too.

Jones even has a doctor come on his show to hock the merch with him. Jones claims that Dr. Edward Group III has a degree from MIT, but "Last Week Tonight" did some digging and learned he actually attended Texas Chiropractic College. When the show asked MIT about him, it responded, "Calling him an alumni would be inaccurate and misleading."

The show played a clip of Jones saying "Infowars" costs $45 million to $50 million to run and that any money from his store goes back into the show. But Oliver also noted that Jones had sported at least three different Rolex watches on his show.

Jones often says his critics focus on things he says taken out of context. But Oliver said on Sunday's show that in context, what Jones does was chilling.

"At the start of this piece, I promised Alex Jones that I would put his statements in context, because he is right — that if you play small clips in isolation, he looks like a loon," Oliver said. "But if you play them in context, he looks like a skilled salesman spending hours a day frightening you about problems like refugees spreading disease and then selling you an answer."

Perhaps the best example of this is that after Jones' "gay frogs" video went viral, he did a follow-up claiming that chemicals were being put in the water to feminize society and reduce the population, then segued to an ad for water filters.

Watch the "Last Week Tonight" Alex Jones piece:

SEE ALSO: All the biggest moments from "Game of Thrones" season 7 episode 3, "The Queen's Justice"

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Here's everything you need to know about Azor Ahai — the legendary savior on 'Game of Thrones'

HBO has been hacked, and a 'Game of Thrones' script may have been stolen

0
0

Game of Thrones

HBO is the latest entertainment company to be hacked.

Entertainment Weekly reports that hackers claim they took 1.5 terabytes of data from the pay-cable channel and that they put upcoming episodes of "Ballers" and "Room 104" online. But the big find would be a script from the fourth episode of "Game of Thrones," airing next week.

"HBO recently experienced a cyber incident, which resulted in the compromise of proprietary information," the network confirmed in a statement to EW. "We immediately began investigating the incident and are working with law enforcement and outside cybersecurity firms. Data protection is a top priority at HBO, and we take seriously our responsibility to protect the data we hold."

Many reporters received an anonymous email on Sunday announcing the hack, according to EW.

"Hi to all mankind," the email reads. "The greatest leak of cyber space era is happening. What's its name? Oh I forget to tell. Its HBO and Game of Thrones……!!!!!! You are lucky to be the first pioneers to witness and download the leak. Enjoy it & spread the words. Whoever spreads well, we will have an interview with him. HBO is falling."

It's unclear whether the hacker has possession of any completed episodes of "Game of Thrones." HBO would not say what might have been stolen.

Though the biggest hack within the entertainment industry is still that of Sony in 2014, there have been smaller ones recently. Netflix was hacked in April, and episodes from season five of "Orange is the New Black" were put online ahead of its summer launch. Then in May, a hacker claimed to have stolen Disney's "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales," but studio head Bob Iger later said it was a hoax.

SEE ALSO: The dealmaking to pull off the 1980s-soaked "Atomic Blonde" soundtrack was as intense as the fight scenes

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Here's the first trailer for the second season of 'Westworld'


We ranked the 'Game of Thrones' characters by leadership abilities — here's how they're doing so far this season

0
0

Daenerys meets Jon Snow

Warning: "Game of Thrones" spoilers ahead.

When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die.

But leadership isn't always a zero sum game, even when you're dealing with dragons, ice zombies,sneak attacks, and death. So much death.

Last season, we ranked the "Game of Thrones" characters based on their leadership abilities. So here's an update, based on the intense, upsetting, and altogether brutal events of this season so far.

A few notes: This list counts only characters who are still alive on the show, not in the books. So keep in mind that a bunch of people have died recently. Shout out to the incomparable Olenna Tyrell— we'll miss you, Queen of Thorns.

Also, this list takes into consideration only people who could be counted as "leaders"— more solitary characters who aren't currently in leadership roles aren't on here, like Arya Stark, Jorah Mormont, Meera Reed, Melisandre, or Sandor Clegane.

The same goes for people who are basically out of commission at this point — sorry, Ellaria and Yara.

Lastly, this ranking looks into characters' track records but heavily favors things that happened this season. This list examines leadership ability, not overall power, importance, or title.

Here are the leaders of "Game of Thrones" that have survived the season so far, ranked from worst to best:

SEE ALSO: 6 effective leadership styles we can learn from 'Game of Thrones'

DON'T MISS: We ranked the Game of Thrones characters by leadership skills — No. 1 may surprise you

22. Jaime Lannister

Jaime seems more directionless than ever this season.

Sure, he did a good job of beating the weakest of the great houses — "golden roses, indeed," as Olenna quipped — and poisoning an old lady.

But all he could do while the Queen of Thrones berated him about his terrible sister-girlfriend was throw back half-hearted protestations.

And the look on his face when the last Tyrell revealed she had gone all "Arsenic and Old Lace" on Joffrey was pretty rough.

Now he knows that his father and sister forced Tyrion out for no reason — so what's next for the Kingslayer?



21. Qyburn

As Tom McKay said in Mic, this slippery, disgraced former maester has become one of the most powerful people in King's Landing. He's now Queen Cersei's hand, after all.

But that doesn't mean Qyburn's a decent leader.

Previous hands, like Ned Stark, Tyrion Lannister, and Tywin Lannister, all brought their own agenda and a forceful presence to the role.

Qyburn is still just a sniveling sycophant. He's basically Cersei's medieval mad scientist. He creates creepy zombie knights for her. He builds dragon-killing machines for her.

He's ultimately a follower, not a leader.



20. Brienne of Tarth

In fairness, we haven't seen too much from Brienne yet this season.

So far, she's mostly just been hanging around Winterfell, protecting Sansa, and mentoring Podrick.

She has done a good job of that, but I'm excited to see what's in store for her.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

This chart shows how drastically young Americans are cutting traditional TV from their lives

0
0

It’s no secret that cable companies are struggling as Americans cut the cord and make the jump from TV subscriptions to online streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. As this chart from Statista shows, Americans between 18 and 24 years old are among the biggest cord cutters. The group has cut their TV usage by 12 hours per week since 2011 according to data from Nielsen's quarterly total audience report

Traditional TV networks are feeling the pain and trying to find ways to stay in the game. AT&T bought Time Warner as it chases audiences moving their TV watching onto mobile devices, and Discovery Communications just bought Scripps Network as an attempt to increase its share of the market and remain attractive to distributors. 

Meanwhile,  Netflix original shows like "Orange is the New Black" and "Stranger Things" dominate conversations. And subscribers at Netflix and Amazon Prime, which offers original video programming through its streaming service, continue to grow rapidly.

As young Americans begin to start their own homes, they are likely to bring their TV watching habits with them, and traditional TV companies will have to continue to fight to stay relevant.  Chart Of The Day 7/31

SEE ALSO: Young people spend about twice as much time watching Netflix as live TV, and even more time on YouTube

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Netflix is an emerging juggernaut

8 contestants from the 'Bachelor' franchise who regret their time on the show

0
0

nick viall bachelorThe INSIDER Summary: 

  • Not every former "Bachelor" star looks back fondly at their experience.
  • Some contestants, like Emily Maynard, felt embarrassed by their time on the popular series.
  • Others, like Juan Pablo Galavis, said they wouldn't do it again if they had the chance.  


There is a dark underbelly to "The Bachelor" and "The Bachelorette," which is less concerned with love and more concerned with ratings. As such, many of the franchise's stars have spoken out over the years, calling into question the morality of the show. Thanks to fictional television shows like "UnREAL," which highlight the danger of reality TV tactics, viewers have begun to understand that it isn't all love and roses. Not surprisingly, a lot of past contestants have since decided to separate themselves from Bachelor Nation. 

Now, with the recent sexual assault allegations during the filming of "Bachelor in Paradise" Season 4, even more questions have come to light, not just about the morality but about the safety of the show. The investigation ultimately concluded there was no assault, and both parties involved, Corinne Olympios and DeMario Jackson have agreed to return for the reunion special

But that hasn't gotten rid of the tension just yet. Scroll through to find out which former "Bachelor" stars have since spoken out against the show.

Andi Dorfman

After Andi Dorfman left Juan Pablo's season of "The Bachelor," she became The Bachelorette for Season 10. Unfortunately, that journey also ended in heartbreak. She left the show engaged to Josh Murray, but the couple later broke up, and Dorfman accused him of emotionally abusing her throughout the relationship.

In her book "It's Not Okay," Dorfman revealed the dark times she experienced on "The Bachelor," writing, "It's freezing cold, everyone is cold and nervous standing on these risers, and you could hear the teeth chattering and the deep breaths. And I watch Juan Pablo come in with a stack of roses, and I'm thinking, 'This is the stupidest thing I've ever been a part of. I'm standing here cold, my feet hurt, and I'm waiting for a dude I don't know to give me a rose.'"



Ben Flajnik

Flajnik was rejected by Ashley Hebert in Season 7 of "The Bachelorette" after getting down on one knee. He then became The Bachelor for Season 16 and ended the show happily engaged to Courtney Robertson. Their on-again, off-again relationship ultimately didn't end well. Flajnik later tweeted, "I still can't believe I ever did this s---. It's amazing. #TheBachelor"



Emily Maynard

Emily Maynard first appeared in Brad Womack's Season 15 of the show. Womack proposed to Maynard at the end of the season, but their engagement didn't last long. After they split, Maynard decided to give the show another go and took on the role as "The Bachelorette" for Season 8. She once again found herself engaged at the end of the season, this time to Jef Holm. The two split a few months later. 

Maynard then published a tell-all book, "I Said Yes," in which she said "The Bachelor" franchise left her feeling "empty and utterly embarrassed" after two failed proposals.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Next week's 'Game of Thrones' episode will feature a significant weapon with a mysterious history

0
0

Littlefinger Petry Baelish Sansa Stark Game of Thrones season seven

Warning: Spoilers ahead for "Game of Thrones," season seven, episode four.

The preview for episode four of "Game of Thrones" season seven teased the reappearance of an important weapon — the Valyrian steel dagger used in Bran's assassination attempt back on the first season.

Here's the shot from the preview showing the dagger:

Littlefinger hold catspaw blade valyrian dagger Game of Thrones episode 4 preview

On the first season, someone sent a would-be killer (often called the "catspaw") after Bran Stark. They armed the man with a unique Valyrian steel dagger, and Catelyn Stark brought the blade to King's Landing. There, Littlefinger and Varys examined the weapon and Littlefinger confessed it had once belonged to him.

But he said Tyrion Lannister had won it off him in a bet — a statement we later learn was bogus.

Varys catspaw blade Game of Thrones

In the books, we learn through Tyrion and Jaime's point of view that they believe Joffrey was the one who hired the killer and armed him with the blade (the Lannister men believe Robert Baratheon was the last known owner of the dagger, having won it off Littlefinger in a bet).

But the show has never really explained where the dagger came from, or who hired the catspaw. 

The last time the dagger was shown on "Game of Thrones" was in episode four, when it's seen on Ned Stark's desk in the Tower of the Hand.

Catspaw dagger Game of Thrones

Now, thanks to the trailer for season seven, episode four, we know Littlefinger has the dagger. He likely took it from Ned after betraying him in the Throne Room.

Here's the shot of the dagger in the preview again, but this time look closer at the rings of the man holding it and his distinctive yellow sleeves:

Littlefinger hold catspaw blade valyrian dagger Game of Thrones episode 4 preview

We went back and found this scene with Littlefinger and Sansa from season five, where you can clearly see him wearing the same rings and yellow-colored shirt:

Littlefinger Petry Baelish Sansa Season five skitched

So what is Littlefinger doing with the blade on the coming episode? With Jon at Dragonstone and Sansa in charge of Winterfell, the time is ripe for Littlefinger to try and screw with House Stark once again.

Bran arrived to the castle in the last episode, and based on the same trailer for episode four it looks like Arya will soon join her brother and sister. Whatever is about to happen with the dagger, we know Arya will eventually be its new owner. 

Before season seven began, Vanity Fair's Joanna Robinson pointed out that Maisie Williams (Arya) was photographed with the dagger at her hip for an Entertainment Weekly cover.

Arya Stark EW cover Game of Thrones catspaw blade

For an even closer look at the catspaw blade's journey through the show, read our deep dive into everything we know about the dagger. You can also check out more insights from the latest "Game of Thrones" episode in our round up of 11 details you might have missed on "The Queen's Justice."

Watch the preview for episode four below:

SEE ALSO: 13 'Game of Thrones' actors whose real-life accents sound nothing like their characters on the show

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Here’s what celebrities would look like with symmetrical faces

We can't figure out why nobody is talking about Jon Snow's resurrection on 'Game of Thrones'

0
0

Jon Snow and Ser Davos Seaworth Game of Thrones season 7 episode 3 photos Helen Sloan

Warning: Spoilers ahead for HBO's "Game of Thrones" season seven. 

"Game of Thrones" is a fantasy story with magic and dragons and terrifying ice zombies — but the strength of the show and George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" lies in the realistic characters. 

This might be why the show seems to have so quickly glossed over Jon Snow's murder and subsequent rebirth thanks to the Lord of Light. This incredible moment in Jon's life has been seemingly swept aside — as if it's just another crazy magic event that happened on "Game of Thrones."

But the seventh season's third episode brought this oversight into sharp relief when Davos spoke on behalf of Jon in front of Daenerys. 

"He risked his life for his people," Davos told the Mother of Dragons. "He took a knife in the heart for his people. He gave his own —"

But Jon stopped him from revealing that he was actually once a dead man. Later Daenerys asked Tyrion what he thought that exchange was all about, but they both dismissed it as a "flight of fancy."

Jon Snow Daenerys Targaryen Game of Thrones S7e3 Helen Sloan

When are we finally going to see someone react to Jon's death and resurrection? Why is the show holding back from this huge plot point?

I can understand Jon not wanting his death and rebirth brought up during his first conversation with Daenerys, especially when she already seemed doubtful of his sanity. For some reason, Daenerys and Tyrion found it hard to believe the Night King and his army of wights are a real threat — even though Daenerys is literally immune to fire and hatched dragons when everyone told her that was impossible. 

So Jon not wanting to pile on the "crazy" makes sense, but the hesitation speaks to a larger pattern. It's not just Jon — nobody other than Davos seems interested in speaking about Jon's death.

Even Melisandre, when pointedly asked on the second episode of season seven why she thinks Jon Snow is a prophesied hero, made no mention of his death and rebirth. You'd think that would be her biggest talking point when trying to convince people of Jon's destiny, but no. She mentions his leadership abilities and bringing the Wildlings and the Northmen together.

Battle scene Tormund Game of Thrones april trailer 5

We know Sansa knows about his death, because Tormund spoke with the Wildlings about Jon sacrificing his life for them in front of her on season six. But we haven't seen any conversations between Jon and Sansa about this huge event.

The show also skipped over Sam Tarly's reaction to Jon's death and choice to leave the Night's Watch. Sam sent a raven from Oldtown to Winterfell, which means he knows Jon is no longer Lord Commander and instead is King in the North. 

Of course, all of these moments probably just happened off screen. Showrunners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss can't possibly write every little conversation into the series, so the audience has to accept that certain things happen between episodes.

Jon Snow

But I expected Jon Snow's resurrection to have more of an impact on the realm at large. Nearly everyone knows Jon was the Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, including Cersei Lannister. Which means people should either be questioning why he abandoned the Night's Watch (an action punishable by death), or they should be making a fuss about the fact that the man now named King in the North is actually a resurrected ex-Lord Commander.

Granted, word hasn't seemed to spread about Beric Dondarrion's multiple resurrections, but he's part of a semi-underground gang of outcasts — not the King in the North who is leading an army. Also, we have many instances of Sandor Clegane bringing up Beric's resurrection because it clearly unsettles him.

I'd expect similar behavior from the men and women around Jon, but so far Davos is the only person who seems to think it's worth having a conversation about.

Fingers crossed we see Jon address this traumatic part of his past soon, and hopefully in front of Daenerys. If anyone should understand, it's the woman who walked into a fiery funeral pyre and emerged naked, unhurt, and with three newborn baby dragons everyone thought were fossils. 

"Game of Thrones" season seven continues on Sunday at 9 p.m. on HBO. In the meantime, catch up with 11 details you might have missed on the latest episode. 

SEE ALSO: The 8 biggest questions we have after this week's 'Game of Thrones'

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: The biggest mistake everyone makes when eating steak, according to Andrew Zimmern

The trailer for Netflix's new David Fincher series 'Mindhunter' examines the minds of serial killers

0
0

Mindhunter Netflix2 final

David Fincher loves to tell really creepy stories, and his latest contribution to Netflix looks to be just that. 

Following his push to get "House of Cards" on Netflix (he's an executive producer on the show), he now brings the streaming giant something completely different, "Mindhunter." 

The show follows two 1970s FBI agents who sit down and interview the most sadistic serial killers alive to better understand the mind of a murderer.

It's basically combining two of Fincher's greatest movies, "Zodiac" and "Seven," into a TV show. Fincher will direct a few episodes and is an executive producer along with Charlize Theron.

If you dare to continue on, the trailer is below. Netflix will go live with the series on October 13.  

SEE ALSO: These 10 "Game of Thrones" characters disappeared, but could come back in a major way this season

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: DC showed off a new 'Justice League' trailer at Comic Con — and it looks epic

Racism was the main focus of 'The Bachelorette: Men Tell All' special – and it was heated

0
0

lee and rachel bachelorette men tell all

The INSIDER Summary:

  • Lee Garrett was a contestant on ABC's "The Bachelorette." 
  • While on the show, his racist and misogynistic tweets were revealed.
  • Host Chris Harrison read the tweets out loud.
  • Many contestants and the bachelorette, Rachel Lindsay, all confronted Garrett about his racist behavior. 
  • Most of the episode focused on the tense conversation. 


The discussion on Monday's "The Bachelorette: Men Tell All" episode was primarily focused on racism.

The special gathers the rejected men and generally gives them a chance to explain their actions from the mansion, discuss their emotions, and confront each other over events that occurred. But much of what ABC chose to broadcast on Monday focused on contestant Lee Garrett, his behavior towards fellow contestant Kenny King, and his racist tweets.

Garrett, 30, and King, 35, were both vying for bachelorette Rachel Lindsay's love, but their combative relationship with each other ultimately resulted in both men getting sent home following a two-on-one date.

During the "Men Tell All," King said that the tension "didn't feel like racism" when the two were arguing in the mansion, but that he felt like Garrett was just reacting to a situation where he was "out of his league." The episode quickly evolved into a conversation about Garrett's racist actions and tweets when it was his turn in the hot seat.

At first, Garrett stumbled his way through an explanation of his behavior as the men began to confront him.

kenny king men tell all bachelorette

Rather than shy away from the racism and misogyny, host Chris Harrison laid it on thick by reading some of Garrett's tweets out loud, including ones he wrote about feminists being ugly and compared the NAACP to the KKK.

After Harrison asked Garrett how he feels after seeing those tweets now, Garrett responded, "I feel like I have a lot to learn in that area. And I feel like I said things that I should not have said. They were inconsiderate."

But the other contestants didn't accept his explanation.

"Everybody's sorry when they get caught," King said. "But if you didn't get caught, would you be sorry?"

Josiah Graham, a 28-year-old attorney, then asked to speak with Garrett and sat down next to him on the couch.

"I want you to articulate to all of us why did you come on a show where the bachelorette was an African American woman, if on the other hand, you're tweeting about black people and groups of black people who fought and died so I can be on the stage next to you," Graham said. "People came before me so that I could go to the same school like you, so I could drink from the fountain like you, and if you're comparing them to the KKK, people who hung my ancestors, why are you trying to date a woman who looks like me?"

lee and josiah bachelorette men tell allGarrett again stumbled through an explanation.

"I don't like racism at all," he said. It bothers me morally. It bothers me inside, and I don't like it. And when I woke up and I saw that those came out, it hurt me a lot."

The other men continued to press him on his views and asked him why he didn't denounce those tweets at the time. The conversation went back and forth with contestants pressing him about "invisible racism" and his motivations for his ignorant tweets.

Garret eventually responded with an apology and denounced his tweets.

"I'm sorry for saying things when I was not educated and ignorant in those subjects," he said. After being pressed some more, he finally admitted to the racism. "That tweet was racist, and I denounce it."

Lindsay also had a chance to confront Lee when she sat down to talk with Harrison.

"I'm not in the house and I only know what's happening right in front of me, so to sit back and see things that I've never seen before, it's very enlightening," Lindsay, who is the first black "Bachelorette" star, told Harrison.

She then spoke directly to Garrett about how he should have taken his time in the house as an opportunity to get to know people from various backgrounds instead of reacting the way he had.

"I hope that in watching it back, you realize that you were a part of something so great," she said. "But in case you didn't, please know that you can exit stage left and meet me backstage, and I will be more than happy to give you a black history lesson, a lesson on women's rights."

Watch a clip from the confrontation below:

"The Bachelorette" finale will air next Monday. 

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Animated map shows where your bottled water actually comes from


Wisconsin environmental activists attack $10 billion Foxconn deal

0
0

The logo of Foxconn, the trading name of Hon Hai Precision Industry, is seen on top of the company's headquarters in New Taipei City, Taiwan March 29, 2016. REUTERS/Tyrone Siu/File Photo

(Reuters) - Activists on Tuesday attacked Wisconsin's plan to waive environmental reviews for Taiwanese electronics manufacturer Foxconn's proposed $10 billion LCD flat-screen factory, calling it a roadmap to destruction of precious state wetlands.

Environmental groups, including Midwest Environmental Advocates and the Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters, said the state's proposal rolls back protections for wetlands, which act as natural filters for drinking water and wildlife habitats, and protect against flooding.

"It's hard to throw a rock without hitting a wetland," said Ryan Billingham, spokesman for the Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters.

"It's shocking to us in its extreme," he added of the state's proposed plan.

Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd , hopes to open the plant in 2020 at a 1,000-acre site in southeastern Wisconsin. It will initially employ 3,000 people but that number could rise to 13,000, according to Foxconn and to Wisconsin's Republican governor, Scott Walker.

Foxconn is a major supplier to Apple Inc for its iPhones, but the company has not said if the Wisconsin factory would produce any parts for Apple.

President Donald Trump, who has suggested the deal would not have happened without his efforts, said he was told by Foxconn Chairman Terry Gou that the investment could be larger than $10 billion.

"He told me off the record, he thinks he may go to $30 billion," Trump said at a small business event at the White House on Tuesday of Foxconn's investment.

"I promised I wouldn't tell," Trump said to laughter.

Foxconn had no immediate comment.

State officials also emphasized the job creation, including an expected 22,000 ancillary and 10,000 construction jobs.

"We can preserve our natural resources & help businesses create jobs, economic opportunity for the people of WI. The two aren't incompatible," Tom Evanson, spokesman for Walker, said on Twitter.

Walker ordered the Republican-controlled state legislature into special session on Tuesday to consider the package. Legislators said a public hearing will be held Thursday and a vote could occur this month.

The draft bill allows Foxconn to discharge dredged or fill material into some wetlands without state permits. The legislation also would allow Foxconn to connect artificial bodies of water with natural waterways without state permits.

Gou told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that Wisconsin was appealing in part because of its proximity to abundant fresh water from Lake Michigan.

"New business is great, but it shouldn't come at the expense of our water and air," Clean Wisconsin said on Facebook.

(Reporting by Suzannah Gonzales in Chicago; Additional reporting by David Shepardson and Ayesha Rascoe in Washington; Editing by Ben Klayman and Matthew Lewis)

SEE ALSO: Trump announces that Apple's top supplier, Foxconn, is building a $10 billion TV factory in Wisconsin

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: A former HR exec who reviewed over 40,000 résumés says these 7 résumé mistakes annoy her

A 9-year-old named after Celine Dion nailed her song on 'America's Got Talent' — and the judges went nuts

0
0

celine americas got talent golden buzzer

The INSIDER Summary:

  • Nine-year-old Celine Tam is named after Celine Dion.
  • Her voice is as good as the celebrity she's named after.
  • On "America's Got Talent," she blew away the judges with a Michel Bolton song.


The Tam family is a bit obsessed with Celine Dion. One sister is named "Celine," the other is named "Dion." And on Tuesday night's episode of NBC's "America's Got Talent," the older sister proved she has the vocal chops to match her namesake.

The nine-year-old, Celine, belted out Michael Bolton's "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You." The judges were overwhelmed. Guest judge Laverne Cox gave Celine the "Golden Buzzer," which automatically sent her to the next round of the show.

"I just want to eat you up," Cox said. "You were so adorable and so cute and your voice is amazing. You are so talented. Thank you so much. I am really blown away."

Tam isn't the only young phenomenon on "America's Got Talent." A few weeks ago, a nine-year-old kidney transplant survivor impressed the judges with an Alicia Keys song and also earned the "Golden Buzzer."

Watch Celine Tam sing "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You" on "America's Got Talent" below:

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: The most persuasive phrase in the human language

10 new photos from the next 'Game of Thrones' episode tease trouble in Westeros

0
0

Game of Thrones Sansa Stark godswood Helen Sloan   HBO

Warning: Spoilers ahead for "Game of Thrones," including speculation of future events. 

 

HBO just dropped new photos for the upcoming "Game of Thrones" episode, "Spoils of War," and they tease brewing conflicts on multiple fronts. We know from the trailer that we can expect to see the the return of an important weapon, and yet another long-awaited reunion. But what else is in store?

Let's take a closer look at the new photos to see if we discern some hints about what's to come.

SEE ALSO: 'Game of Thrones:' Who is alive (and dead) in all the major houses

Daenerys Targaryen stands on the beach of Dragonstone, surrounded by her advisors plus Jon Snow and Davos.

She'll likely hear about Olenna's death, and reconvene her counsel. This is a huge blow to Daenerys' forces — will she take Olenna's advice and "be a dragon" finally?



Jon Snow is lurking nearby. We're curious to see more interactions between him and Daenerys, since their first meeting was a bit rocky.



With Olenna, Ellaria, and Yara gone, Missandei is the only woman left on Daenerys' team of advisors.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

11 documentaries on Netflix right now that will make you happier

0
0

Screen Shot 2017 08 02 at 13.35.13

It's not all machiavellian politicians, drug lords, and female inmates on Netflix.

No, the online video service has some hidden documentaries that will help make you feel better about the world.

Business Insider asked Netflix to recommend some of the most uplifting and feel-good films on the site right now.

From a documentary about the benefits of minimalism to the story of photographers travelling to some of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth, they showcase the goodness in mankind.

So sit back, relax, and find your inner zen with the documentaries on Netflix right now that will make you happier.

"Daughters of Destiny"

What it's about: Five girls from India’s most impoverished families attend a boarding school as they strive for a brighter future. This documentary tells the story of an institution that attempts to interrupt the fate that India's poorest families.

Available to download.

Youtube Embed:
http://www.youtube.com/embed/b49QEQsNUj0
Width: 560px
Height: 315px


"Given"

What it's about: Told through the eyes of a six-year-old, this surfing adventure across 15 countries gives a young boy from Kauai, Hawaii an opportunity to widen his horizons and gain a deeper understanding of life. 

Available to download.

Youtube Embed:
http://www.youtube.com/embed/X54O_u6iYSo
Width: 560px
Height: 315px


"Footprints: The Path of Your Life"

What it's about: This documentary follows 10 men who agree to walk the Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile, 40-day trek that will challenge their strength and faith.

Available to download. 

Youtube Embed:
http://www.youtube.com/embed/ApAPxRCzyBM
Width: 560px
Height: 315px


See the rest of the story at Business Insider

40 differences between the 'Game of Thrones' books and TV show you may not have noticed

0
0

Game of Thrones Season 7

HBO's "Game of Thrones" naturally had to make some changes from the books when adapting them to a television show. That's the business.

But it's still fun to spot them, and think about whether you like one choice more than the other.

Business Insider previously compiled the biggest plot changes from the books to the show, including how Tyrion Lannister looks quite different on the small screen.

However, in honor of season seven, we've also rounded up 40 differences (in no particular order) that you might not have noticed unless you've really read the books carefully.

Warning: There are book and show spoilers in this post so read at your own risk.

Here are the differences between the "Game of Thrones" books and show you may not have noticed:

SEE ALSO: HBO just unveiled a peek at 15 new character looks for 'Game of Thrones' season 7

Everyone's favorite sellsword Daario Naharis looks way different in the books than in the show.

In the the books Daario Naharis is much more flamboyant, taking after his Tyroshi roots. The Tyroshi are known for dyeing their hair bright colors and wearing bright clothes. Daario is described in the novel "A Storm of Swords" as having a blue trident beard and bright blue, long hair, with a gold mustache and one gold tooth. While both Ed Skrein and Michiel Huisman have done an outstanding job of playing the character in seasons three and four through six, respectively, they aren't exactly what George R.R. Martin had in mind.



Missandei isn't having a romance with Grey Worm any time soon in the books, because she's only 10!

Daenerys refers to Missandei often in the "A Song of Ice and Fire" book series as her "little scribe," because the girl is so small. When she's introduced in the show during season three, she appears to be much older. Her age is unconfirmed in the show, but you can take your own guesses based on her picture here. Also the slavers of Astapor offer her with no prompting in the book "A Storm of Swords." In the show during season three, Daenerys demands they give her Missandei (as a gift).



Mance Rayder is still alive in the books, kind of, despite being burned alive on the show. Well, he's mostly alive. He was still burned at the stake.

In the book "A Dance with Dragons" and in season five of the show, Mance Rayder is burned alive at the stake. But, in the book, Melisandre does some red-priestess magic to switch Mance Rayder and the Lord of Bones' (aka Rattleshirt's) body. You remember the Lord of Bones, right? He wore... bones... lots of them. Anyways, Stannis wanted to burn Mance Rayder, but Melisandre thought Mance Rayder would still be useful later on, so she wanted to keep his soul alive. She clearly didn't share the same thoughts about the Lord of Bones. It's really quite complicated and you should read "A Dance with Dragons" to get a full description of it but for right now: Mance = alive, Rattleshirt = dead.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider
Viewing all 7868 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images