‘Quiet on Set’ reveals dark side of kids TV and more pop culture news
In the headlines
From royal health scares and album releases to the dark side of Kid’s TV, the entertainment world is ablaze with headlines to get caught up with. Ahead, find the latest pop culture news you might have missed.
Quiet on Set reveals disturbing stories behind your favourite childhood shows
Since premiering on 17 March, Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV has sent shockwaves over social media for its shocking revelations of sexual abuse involving Nickelodeon stars of the early 2000s. Former child star, Drake Bell, appeared on the documentary series and broke his silence on the abuse he endured at the hands of his dialogue coach, Brian Peck. He recalled the sexual exploitation and manipulation he experienced when he was just 15 years of age. Peck was 43. Despite a guilty conviction, Peck was only sentenced to 16 months in prison and continued to work with children on Disney Channel’s The Suite Life of Zack and Cody, sparking online outrage about accountability and child safety measures within the entertainment industry.
The four-episode series also delved into the abuse that other young actors and workers at Nickelodeon experienced—particularly, from Dan Schneider who was regarded as the creative mastermind behind Nickelodeon. On 20 March, Schneider appeared on a YouTube interview to address the issues and apologised for his behaviour. Due to the success of the series, Quiet on Set will release a fifth bonus episode titled Breaking the Silence on 7 April. Featuring Drake Bell and several All That cast members, the episode will discuss how the industry can move forward in creating a safer environment for children. Stream it on Max.
Sean “Diddy” Combs home raided by US law enforcement
On 25 March, Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Los Angeles and Miami mansions were raided by officials from US Homeland Security. According to Fox 11, the raids are “in connection with a federal sex trafficking investigation.” The rap mogul has been involved in a string of allegations over the past six months, including sexual assault, sex trafficking, and the distribution of narcotics and firearms. However, it remains unclear if Combs was the specific target of the raids.
The artist maintains his innocence against these accusations. Combs, 54, is a pivotal figure in shaping the hip-hop genre. The rap legend won three Grammys and is credited for the success behind stars such as Usher and Mary J. Blige.
Dune franchise glides past the $1 billion milestone
Dune has been the talk of the town amongst cinephiles since Part Two hit theatres a month ago. According to Collider, the Dune franchise achieved a monumental milestone by grossing $1 billion at the global box office. It has been reported that the second instalment garnered $574 million. Combined with Dune Part One’s $431 million, it makes Dennis Villeneuve’s desert epic a billion-dollar project based on a $190 million budget. In this sequel, the saga of Paul Atreides intensifies as he allies with Chani and the Fremen on a vengeful quest against those who destroyed his family.
Tyla is an Amapiano Queen in her self-titled debut album
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As one of the biggest breakout music stars of 2023 with her explosive hit Water (and a Grammy already under her belt), Tyla’s first album could not come with higher expectations. Released on 22 March, the five-track record features a distinctly South African flair, utilising the Amapiano genre’s soulful and euphoric house music style she is known for. Stream the album below for an instant mood lift!
Kate Middleton ends the conspiracies with shock cancer announcement
After several whirlwind months of conspiracy theories surrounding Kate Middleton’s whereabouts, the Princess of Wales finally made her long-awaited appearance online, bearing shocking news about her health. On 23 March, the British royal revealed that she is currently undergoing preventative chemotherapy after her abdominal surgery in January found positive traces of cancer. For a more comprehensive look into the #KateGate scandal, click here.
Sydney Sweeney plays a pregnant nun in the upcoming horror film, Immaculate
After conquering the rom-com and superhero genre, Sydney Sweeney’s latest venture sees her donning the habit for the upcoming scare-fest, Immaculate. The actress plays Sister Cecilia, an American novitiate thrust into the eerie depths of a convent nestled in the Italian countryside. In it, Sweeney’s character grapples with an unexpected pregnancy amidst the ominous secrets and sinister forces lurking within the convent’s walls. The film comes to theatres on 22 March.
All must choose a side in House of the Dragon Season 2 trailers
After a breathtaking first season, HBO’s critically acclaimed House of the Dragon has dropped dual trailers for its eagerly awaited second season, each offering a glimpse into divergent story arcs and character developments.
Hot off of season one’s cliffhanger, the fiery trailers reveal more about the impending war (known as the Dance of the Dragons) between the Targarhyens and Hightowers as each house vies for power on the Iron Throne. Whether you’re Team Green or Team Black, mark your calendars as the fantasy series is set to premiere its second season on 16 June 2024.
Kendrick Lamar disses Drake and J.Cole on Like That
Kendrick Lamar has stirred up controversy with his apparent diss towards fellow rappers Drake and J. Cole in his song Like That. Featured on Future and Metro Boomin’s latest album, We Don’t Trust You, Lamar pulls no punches as he targets his peers in the rap industry. The track’s lyrics are laced with subtle jabs, hinting at potential rivalries between the rap legends.
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