Netflix pulls the plug on its last two Marvel series.
Netflix’s two remaining Marvel series, “Jessica Jones” and “The Punisher,” were canceled this week. The studio’s decision comes a few months after its other Marvel shows—“Daredevil,” “Iron Fist,” “Luke Cage”—met with the same fate on the studio’s chopping block. (The Hollywood Reporter)
After Oscars snub, “Eighth Grade” wins at WGA Awards.
Even though the film had been absent from this year’s Oscar-nominated films, “Eighth Grade” written and directed by Bo Burnham, received the award for Best Original Screenplay at this year’s WGA awards last Sunday. “To the other nominees in the category: have fun at the Oscars, losers,” said Burnham. (Backstage, New York Times)
Jussie Smollett out on bail after arrest.
The investigation into the alleged hate crime against actor Jussie Smollett took a dramatic turn Thursday morning when he was arrested on felony charges for staging and falsely reporting an attack. He has since been released on bail and appeared in a Chicago court. If found guilty, Smollett could face up to three years in jail. Though Fox has continued production on “Empire,” Smollett has been dropped from the remainder of the fifth season. (Deadline)
“The Haunting of Hill House” gets a new story and name for Season 2.
Netflix’s 2018 horror smash has been renewed for a second season, though creators Trevor Macy and Mike Flanagan revealed the sophomore season will follow a completely new storyline and have a new name. “The Haunting of Bly Manor” will be based on the work of Henry James and is expected to be released in 2020. (Twitter)
Broadway contract fine print leads to a unique predicament for orchestrators.
Due to a single line in a union contract, the respective orchestrators of Broadway’s “Be More Chill” and “Hadestown” can no longer legally play in the pit of their own shows. According to the agreement between the Broadway League and Local 802, the musician’s union, “No orchestrator of a given production may serve as Orchestra Contractor, Supervisor, Copyist or Instrumentalist on that production.” (Broadway News)
Paramount pushes for diversity with new initiative.
Jim Gianopulos, chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures, has announced that all the studio’s productions “will be required to complete a plan designed to enhance access and opportunities for groups historically underrepresented in the media industry. Special attention will be paid to our storylines, our talent in front of and behind the camera, our vendors and our shooting locations.” (Deadline)