From Gaga to Garth, Miranda to Moreno: Celebs join inaugural
(AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)Like so much this past year, the inaugural celebration will be like no other: pared down, distanced, much of it virtual. But for actor Christopher Jackson — the original George Washington in Broadway's “Hamilton" — performing in a virtual “ball” is a way of participating in an essential rite of American democracy. Miranda will contribute a classical recitation, joining musicians like Bruce Springsteen, Katy Perry, John Legend, Demi Lovato, Foo Fighters, Justin Timberlake and Bon Jovi. The inaugural committee has made sure to blend this high-powered list with ordinary Americans and inspiring stories. And the “AAPI Inaugural Ball: Breaking Barriers” celebrated the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities with planned participants including actors Kal Penn, John Cho, Kumail Nanjiani and Chloe Bennet.
Celebrities unite to various get-out-the-vote efforts
This combination photo shows Justin Bieber, from left, Dua Lipa and Demi Lovato who will take part in various planned events urging Americans to vote. (AP Photo)NEW YORK – In the final days before the U.S. election, celebrities from Kerry Washington to Billie Jean King and Danai Gurira are urging Americans to vote. — The hourlong “Every Vote Counts: A Celebration of Democracy” will be hosted by Alicia Keys, America Ferrera and Kerry Washington. — The NFL's voting campaign includes Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll and quarterback Russell Wilson, San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle and Atlanta Falcons running back Todd Gurley. There's also an “Latinos Vote” extension campaign with NFL legends and celebrities encouraging the Latino community to vote that includes Victor Cuz, Roberto Garza and Wilmer Valderrama.
Celebs, long vocal about Breonna Taylor case, decry decision
It’s time for some people to go to jail.” - Queen Latifah, recording artist and actor, in an interview with The Associated Press. Ask yourself ‘Why so long for Breonna Taylor?’” - Stevie Wonder, in a video message. “My heart is broken for the family of Breonna Taylor. once again we’re left with nothing that they try to make seem as something” - Ella Mai, recording artist, via Twitter. “Brett Hankison is indicted for shooting into the apartment NEXT to Breonna Taylor & not for KILLING HER.
Disney+ surpasses 10 million sign-ups since launch
Disney's new streaming service, Disney+, has already seen 10 million sign-ups since launching Tuesday, the company announced Wednesday. Disney's new streaming service launched Tuesday with some technical errors that prevented some users from connecting with the service. Disney did not immediately respond to a question about whether the 10 million sign-up figure included presales. The company has already signed up more than 10% of the high end of its forecast of 60 million to 90 million subscribers by the end of 2024. For comparison, it took CBS about five years to reach 8 million streaming subscribers combined for CBS All Access and Showtime.
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