Conan O’Brien Defends Attending Kennedy Center Mark Twain Event Despite Trump Controversy: ‘I Felt Like It Was Important’

For the past couple of months under the new administration, there’s been some contentious events at the Kennedy Center,” O’Brien remarked on his recent podcast episode of “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend.” “I found myself wondering if I should attend or not. In the end, I felt it was crucial to be present.

Disney’s Craig Erwich on Broadcast TV’s Resurgence, Fates of ‘Doctor Odyssey’ and ‘The Bachelor’ — and Which Ratings Matter Most (EXCLUSIVE)

Craig Erwich, who holds a distinct role of managing both a broadcast network and a streaming platform (having spent his formative years in the broadcast industry), finds such an idea amusing. As president of Disney Television Group, encompassing ABC Entertainment, Hulu Originals, Disney Branded Television, and Freeform, Erwich strategically employs these platforms to boost each other’s audiences – for instance, “High Potential” on Hulu can be found on ABC, while “Only Murders in the Building” is available on Hulu but also airs on ABC.

Will Janelle James Finally Win Emmy for ‘Abbott Elementary’?

In the fourth season of “Abbott Elementary” on ABC, James is delivering an outstanding performance as Principal Ava Coleman. Initially, her character provided humor, but this season she has become a significant emotional focus. Her portrayal now encompasses depths that were previously unseen, such as vulnerability and endearing leadership, while maintaining her signature sharp-tongued, exaggerated style. With three previous nominations under her belt, James could finally take home the award this time, cementing her reputation as a top comedic actor on television.

Sheryl Lee Ralph has received well-deserved recognition for her role as veteran teacher Barbara Howard in the show. Her performance brings wisdom and warmth to the series, and she is likely to receive another nomination. Lastly, we eagerly anticipate Lisa Ann Walter’s first nomination for her portrayal of Philly native Melissa.

Bowen Yang: Can He Win His First Emmy?

Building on the success of “Wicked,” Bowen Yang is once again making waves on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live.” Known for generating viral sensations and garnering critical acclaim, he has already received two Emmy nominations. Winning one would make him part of an exclusive group of only four previous “SNL” cast members who have won Emmys for acting. This season, Yang’s fellow cast members Marcello Hernández, James Austin Johnson, and Kenan Thompson (who was previously nominated) are also delivering standout performances.

Will Jean Smart Dominate the Emmys Again for ‘Hacks’?

Once again, it’s Jean Smart who is at the forefront, possibly claiming her sixth Emmy award overall, and the fourth for her character as Deborah Vance, the Las Vegas stand-up diva, in the fourth season of “Hacks” on HBO/Max. Smart has already won consecutive awards in 2021 and 2022 (the show was not eligible during the 2023 period), and she returned again last year with her compelling, multi-layered portrayal that continues to develop in unexpected and emotionally resonant ways.

Will Martin Short Finally Claim His Emmy Glory for ‘Only Murders in the Building’?

Currently, Martin Short is leading the pack. Known for his loveable comedic roles and previous Emmy wins (“AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Mel Brooks” in 2014 for variety special and writing for “SCTV Network” in 1983), Short’s performance as Oliver Putnam in Hulu’s hit series “Only Murders in the Building” has been captivating both viewers and voters. This is evident by his Screen Actors Guild Award win earlier this year. With three consecutive nominations for this role, there’s a strong chance that Short could finally take home an acting award, cementing his position among television’s comedy legends. However, the outcome might depend on whether Steve Martin, his co-star, becomes a factor in the competition. If so, they could potentially split votes, opening up possibilities for others to contend for the win.

‘9-1-1,’ ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ ‘The Rookie,’ ‘Shifting Gears,’ ‘Will Trent’ Renewed at ABC

The broadcaster owned by Disney has ordered more episodes for the shows “9-1-1,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “The Rookie,” “Shifting Gears,” and “Will Trent.” This means that “9-1-1” will continue to Season 9, “Grey’s Anatomy” will reach Season 22, “The Rookie” will go into its eighth season, “Shifting Gears” will air its second season, and “Will Trent” will start its fourth.

Director X Signs With Paradigm (EXCLUSIVE)

Renowned for his innovative, visually striking direction, Director X boasts over 100 acclaimed music videos under his belt, working alongside popular musicians such as Drake (“Hotline Bling,” “Started From the Bottom”), Rihanna (“Work,” “Pon de Replay”), Rosalía (“La Fama,” “Con Altura”), Kendrick Lamar (“King Kunta”) and Justin Bieber (“Boyfriend”). He has received a Juno and a BET Award for his contributions, and has been nominated for multiple other accolades, including a Grammy nomination for the music video of Future and Drake’s “Life Is Good.