newyorkpost--2020-12-11--The Gayest Christmas Ever: Inside 2020’s Big, Queer Holiday Explosion

Christmas 2020 is the gayest Christmas ever .
This holiday season has gifted audiences with four—yes , four—gay Christmas romcoms : Hallmark ’ s The Christmas House , Hulu ’ s Happiest Season , Lifetime ’ s The Christmas Set-Up ( December 12 ) , and Paramount ’ s Dashing in December ( December 13 ) .
There have been more mainstream gay holiday romcoms released in 2020 than in every other year in recorded pop culture history combined .
So… what took so long ?
Gays didn ’ t just starting loving Christmas this year .
And why has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giving us coal ?
And why is 2020 the year that holiday entertainment finally caught up with reality ?
To unwrap the answers , Decider spoke with the queer actors , creators , personalities , and performers that made this a very merry Christmas for a community that ’ s been waiting a while .
“ I think when they said make the Yuletide gay , they meant it , ” said Jonathan Bennett , one half of the gay couple at the heart of Hallmark ’ s The Christmas House .
By @ @ @ @ @ @ @ center ( Brad Harder plays Bennett ’ s onscreen spouse ) , the film is a major step forward for the network .
But what led to this shift ?
Blake Lee—who stars in Lifetime ’ s The Christmas Setup alongside his IRL husband Ben Lewis—had a guess : “ After four years of the current political administration , I think that queer writers were like , ‘ Fuck this , I want to see representation .
I want to create the world that I want to live in . '
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gay apparel , justifying decades of passion for this historically heteronormative holiday .
Because , honey , the gays have always been here for Christmas—even if Christmas hasn ’ t always been here for us .
“ It ’ s so classic , so typical that the queer communities have often loved a lot of these institutions that have not necessarily loved us back , ” said Ben Lewis , the other half of The Christmas Setup ’ s gay power couple , sharing a sentiment echoed by pretty much everyone else interviewed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Netflix ’ s Holiday Home Makeover with Mr. Christmas , had a theory : “ I think there are certain elements [ of Christmas ] that we didn ’ t fully experience as children , because there was already a recognition that maybe we were different and we weren ’ t sure quite where we fit in .
And so I think for gay men , I think even for Christmas enthusiasts , I think we ’ re chasing after that childhood comfort and safety that maybe we missed at that time.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an all-consuming affection for the holidays , came to a similar conclusion , pointing out that Christmas is “ safe and familiar , and it ’ s also this idealized life .
So when you ’ re young and queer , you are afraid—or at least , I was afraid of losing everything that I ever saw in front of me , and Christmas was one of the most sacred things.
” “ I talk a lot about my childhood Christmases in Connecticut , which were very on-the-surface , very storybook , very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said BenDeLaCreme , a fellow RuPaul ’ s Drag Race alum who released a feature-length holiday special with Jinkx Monsoon this year .
“ But in true WASP New England fashion , that ’ s just the shiny glaze on top of the hardened fruitcake that nobody wants .
I always felt as a kid that , even though all the trappings were there , something didn ’ t feel how it seemed like it was supposed to feel.
” “ Christmas was always my favorite time of year , because it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my family came together and put things aside and committed to doing their best to be a happy loving family , ” said Monsoon , echoing her collaborator ’ s sentiment .
“ It was only as an adult that I look back on things and realize yes , that was there , but it was also traumatic at many moments .
That challenge of trying to create the perfect holiday is inherently stressful , and puts us through the wringer.
” This trauma and fear of abandonment are an essential part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shared love of “ All I Want for Christmas Is You.
” But this unique layering of joy and pain isn ’ t exactly like what you see in , say , A Christmas Story or even It ’ s a Wonderful Life .
You do see it in Happiest Season , 2020 ’ s addition to the Christmas canon .
Victor Garber—a hero to a generation of gay people thanks to his work on Broadway , Titanic , Alias , Legends of Tomorrow , and just being Victor Garber—played it straight in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s uptight politician father .
But the struggle depicted in the movie rang true for Garber .
“ I grew up a Jewish kid in Ontario .
Christmas was always just a family thing , and I think that if you are accepted in your family , then [ Christmas is a dream ] .
Otherwise , it ’ s a nightmare .
I remember meeting a lot of gay kids when I was growing up who weren ’ t so happy about Christmas and , not unlike Happiest Season , would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be straight ] .
” “ I think the queer community has a pretty love/hate relationship with with the holidays in general , ” said DeLaCreme .
“ We ’ ve been inundated for decades with imagery about homecoming and family that doesn ’ t include us , it doesn ’ t represent us and isn ’ t necessarily representative of our experience .
But at the same time , Christmas is glittery , and it ’ s colorful , and everybody puts on sequined sweaters and puts their trees in drag.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for this season , ” said Lee , touching upon many gay men ’ s reason for the season .
“ I loved dressing up when I was a kid , and playing make believe .
To see my whole family get into it was so huge .
Because you ’ re like , ‘ You ’ re doing what I want to do all the time ! '
” Obviously decking the halls is a major source of joy during December—or , if your nickname is Mr. Christmas , even earlier .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ really even acknowledge Halloween around here , ” said Bradley , who ’ s turned his passion for pinecones and garland into a career and a Netflix series .
That series—Holiday Home Makeover—serves a different purpose in 2020 ’ s avalanche of gay content .
That show is hosted by an out gay man who casually refers to his partner in front of the straight families he ’ s been tasked to make merry .
Seeing a gay man openly talk his your same-sex partner at Christmas around strangers ?
That ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gay people .
Even celebrating the holidays with your same-sex partner can be a little transformative—just ask Victor Garber .
“ My life changed when I met Rainer [ Andreesen ] , my partner .
My sister and I and my best friend Nikki , we used to meet every year for Christmas and we used to call it ‘ Three Jews on Christmas.
’ And then Rainer came into my life and everything changed.
” It turns out , Garber is married to his own Mr. Christmas .
“ The first time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ didn ’ t know what to do .
There was no place to sit !
The decorations were lavish and beautiful , because he ’ s a brilliant artist .
From then on , our Christmases became something else .
I just fell into it and was a very fortunate recipient of his generosity and his love for Christmas .
I was kind of indoctrinated into the whole Christmas world .
And happily so !
” Even if gay audiences haven ’ t seen literal gay characters on screen , we still have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Connecticut for gay icon Barbara Stanwyck , and Nina West returns to White Christmas every year thanks to the looks and stunts of Vera-Ellen and Rosemary Clooney .
BenDeLaCreme realized as an adult that Christmas at Pee-wee ’ s Playhouse is “ the gayest thing , ” in part because “ Miss Yvonne is the best Christmas drag queen anyone could ever hope for.
” But when it comes to queer Christmas entertainment ( pre-2020 ) , it ’ s all about the Muppets .
“ I identified with A Muppet Christmas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the closest thing to drag queens , ” said Jinkx Monsoon .
“ I think I think you can justify that Miss Piggy is a drag persona.
” Ben Lewis ( The Christmas Setup ) agrees 100 % : “ A Muppet Christmas Carol is huge for me .
Frank Oz , for example , is not a gay man , but somehow created Miss Piggy , who is the most iconic , most canonical ‘ gay ’ character.
” While thinking aloud , Lewis realized why so many Christmas specials seem so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very gay about puppetry and stop motion animation , just in general .
Particularly with stop motion — to put that amount of painstaking detail , the amount of hand glittering that must have gone into the making of any one of those movies , is textbook gay.
” Another unlikely queer Christmas icon : the Grinch .
“ He ’ s this amazing bitchy gay guy !
I kind of love that , with his little dog , ” said Blake Lee of The Christmas Setup .
“ I think an honorable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movie , ” said Monsoon , eliciting a teeny bit of surprise from BenDeLaCreme .
“ It inspired multiple drag performers to do sexy versions of the Grinch .
[ Laughs ] Which , I love a sexy Grinch and I love a sexy Krampus .
But also because Christine Baranski is in the film , and any film that Christine Baranski is in becomes queer with her presence.
” “ I think that ’ s why drag queens love [ Christmas ] .
I mean , girl , you can go into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off of a shelf and make them into earrings , ” said Nina West , angling for her own holiday crafting show on whichever streaming service is smart enough to make it happen .
Mainstream cable networks are just catching up to something drag queens have known for years : Christmas is a time for content , honey .
Just look at BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon , who have been performing over the holidays individually or together for a decade .
2020 marks their third year in a row collaborating on a holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the holiday traditions are , and then analyze what they ’ re rooted in , and then decide how we ’ re going to tear that apart , ” said Monsoon of their creative process .
“ It ’ s taking something that continues to uphold the 1950s idea of what normal America looks like — and then just blowing it wide open and saying , ‘ This is what it could look like , if queer people were considered . '
” West , who dropped a Christmas EP titled The West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the holidays an essential part of her drag .
“ I ’ m trying to stick to something that feels nostalgic , fresh , and from my point of view , ” said West .
“ Because the holiday is — whether it ’ s Hanukkah or Christmas or Kwanzaa , whatever you are in the market to celebrate during this time of year — people are steeped in tradition.
” Tradition ?
Meet COVID-19 .
Fortunately for West , she had an entire EP of holiday tunes—like “ Cha Cha Heels ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ via music video .
“ I just couldn ’ t let the season pass — being that I was at home , being that I had the ability and some support , and some incredible partners — to just put something together and celebrate the holiday with a new video .
I thought it was something I could do , so why not ?
” The pandemic threatened to derail DeLaCreme and Monsoon ’ s annual , all-new holiday experience , as it ’ s always been a stage show .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minds were like , ‘ Eh , someday we ’ ll [ make a film ] , ' ” said DeLaCreme .
“ But you know , 2020 said , ‘ Now . '
” The result is The Jinkx & Dela Holiday Special , a 67 minute long film that they pulled off while staying safe and distanced .
“ We not only sort of rose to the occasion of getting to create this type of content for ourselves , but we also got to deliver it at a time when it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Christmas Is My Two Gay Leads “ I think [ Happiest Season is ] groundbreaking because it ’ s an honest-to-god holiday-themed romcom that is for queer people , by queer people , ” said Jinkx Monsoon of Happiest Season , Hulu ’ s star-studded , major studio gay holiday romcom starring Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis .
Monsoon and DeLaCreme were cast as local drag performers by director and co-writer Clea DuVall—herself a queer woman and drag superfan .
For Monsoon , that authenticity comes across .
“ I see a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was clearly written and directed by straight people , and is geared towards straight people .
So at the end of the day , I ’ m watching something that ’ s totally queer and not relating to it at all .
Whereas Happiest Season is not like that at all.
” The cast of Happiest Season knew they were doing something different .
“ We all felt like we had something quite unique and special , ” Garber said of playing mayoral hopeful Ted Caldwell in the film .
“ I couldn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set , just how everybody just clicked .
It was amazing .
And I think everybody was aware of it , and everybody you talk to would say the same thing .
We just had a wonderful time .
It just felt immediately like a family.
” On the small screen side of things ( Happiest Season was slated for a theatrical release before COVID-19 , thus its arrival on Hulu ) , Jonathan Bennett was keenly aware of the importance of Hallmark ’ s The Christmas House from day one .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first time I met [ onscreen husband ] Brad [ Harder ] , and we were driving to set and I looked at him and I said , ‘ You realize what we ’ re doing right ?
’ And he turned to me and said , ‘ We ’ re making history.
’ And right then , we just looked at each other and we knew.
” Gay creators have been trying to make history for a minute .
Jake Helgren , the writer/director behind Paramount ’ s Dashing in December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TV movie business .
He learned years ago , however , that even putting queer characters in supporting roles irked certain online trolls .
That may be why he didn ’ t initially consider making Dashing in December a gay romance—and then leapt at the chance to make this particular dream come true ( a dream starring out actors starring Peter Porte and Juan Pablo Di Pace ) .
“ We originally pitched [ Dashing in December ] as a straight movie and at some point [ producer Stephanie Slack ] suggested [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Helgren .
“ I said it would be a dream come true for me to tell that story.
” This simple tweak opened up the entire story for Helgren , turning what was just a couple sentences of plot into a full-fledged screenplay that speaks to not only the holiday season , but to the specific experience of being gay in a small , rural community .
Helgren was encouraged by Paramount to make Dashing in December the sweeping , theatrical romance he ’ d long dreamed of making : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alabama and Hallmark all got together and had a love child , [ it would be Dashing in December ] .
” By casting gay actors , the performers felt emboldened to put their own experiences into their characters .
Bennett felt incredibly lucky to be co-starring in an adoption storyline in The Christmas House alongside Harder—who ’ s gone through the adoption process twice with his husband .
The baby that characters Brandon and Jake adopt in the film is even Harder ’ s real son .
The scene that mattered the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ queer person watching The Christmas House at home , was Brandon and Jake ’ s kiss—yes , a gay kiss on Hallmark .
“ That scene mattered more than any other scene in my career , ” said Bennett .
“ When we were done with that scene , there wasn ’ t a dry eye in the house .
One of our art department guys who ’ s gay came up to me and had tears in his eyes .
And he said , ‘ You know , I do art department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and for the first time , I feel like I ’ m part of the family now , too.
” “ [ The Christmas House ] is so inspiring as it [ represents ] so many different types of people that haven ’ t been able to share this story of love , family and Christmas , ” Brad Harder wrote via email .
“ Diverse stories are needed because we matter , our stories matter and it ’ s important for these stories to get told.
” Ben Lewis felt compelled to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emotional arc in Lifetime ’ s The Christmas Setup would resonate with gay audiences .
“ One thing that we wanted to see more of in the script was a sense that this community in Milwaukee had this strong , progressive , queer movement happening , ” said Lewis .
“ The traditional narrative of these movies is the big city kid — which was me , in this case — gets drawn back into their hometown , and sort of reevaluating what their priorities are .
And so I think for my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ career in New York , it ’ s like , what is realistically going to draw him back to Milwaukee ?
And the answer is Patrick and the queer initiatives that he ’ s sort of spearheading in their community.
” May your gays be merry and bright “ It ’ s so refreshing to see something that really just gets to be lighthearted and heartwarming , ” said BenDeLaCreme of Happiest Season .
“ So much queer representation is always tinged with that assumed tragedy of what it is to be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are struggles [ in Happiest Season ] .
The protagonists have to overcome things , but they ’ re still common , relatable experiences that seem like they ’ re in the canon , and not uniquely tinged with that sadness that we get put upon us , [ sadness ] that is not necessarily a part of how we enjoy the holidays.
” Brad Harder also felt proud to provide families with a film that ’ s filled with love .
“ Christmas can be a tough time of year as an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ connected to my family since I came out , so it can be a sad time of year .
The Christmas House is so important because it gives so many of us with these experiences the hope and joy of seeing a family of unconditional love and acceptance.
” It ’ s also not hyperbole to say that these movies , part of incredibly popular cable lineups that have become a 21st century tradition for millions of families , will change lives .
“ These young people who are maybe in the closet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents , maybe this Christmas will be a little different for them , ” said Dashing in December writer Jake Helgren .
“ Maybe when they sit down and they see this film and other films like that are coming out , they ’ ll feel more comfortable having these open conversations with their parents.
” And if they don ’ t get the chance this year , there ’ s going to be plenty of opportunities next year .
This is not a fab fad , and Jonathan Bennett knows it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hallmark Channel because we already have projects greenlit for 2021 that are in development that are going to make the holiday table even bigger and better next year.
” “ We love to watch stories about love , especially young people , they won ’ t have to wonder if they ’ re gon na find love , ” said Helgren .
“ They ’ ll be able to see this and say , ‘ No , I have a real chance at it . '
” And that ’ s what Christmas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Christmas Setup premieres on Lifetime on Saturday , December 12 at 8 p.m .
ET Dashing in December premieres on Paramount Network on Sunday , December 13 at 7 p.m .
ET Where to watch The Christmas House Where to watch The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Special Where to watch Holiday Home Makeover with Mr. Christmas

Where to Stream: Happiest Season
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Christmas 2020 is the gayest Christmas ever. This holiday season has gifted audiences with four—yes, four—gay Christmas romcoms: Hallmark’s The Christmas House, Hulu’s Happiest Season, Lifetime’s The Christmas Set-Up (December 12), and Paramount’s Dashing in December (December 13). There have been more mainstream gay holiday romcoms released in 2020 than in every other year in recorded pop culture history combined.
So… what took so long? Gays didn’t just starting loving Christmas this year. And why has the community loved a holiday that kept giving us coal? And why is 2020 the year that holiday entertainment finally caught up with reality? To unwrap the answers, Decider spoke with the queer actors, creators, personalities, and performers that made this a very merry Christmas for a community that’s been waiting a while.
Christmas Time Is Queer
“I think when they said make the Yuletide gay, they meant it,” said Jonathan Bennett, one half of the gay couple at the heart of Hallmark’s The Christmas House. By featuring a married gay couple front and center (Brad Harder plays Bennett’s onscreen spouse), the film is a major step forward for the network.
But what led to this shift? Blake Lee—who stars in Lifetime’s The Christmas Setup alongside his IRL husband Ben Lewis—had a guess: “After four years of the current political administration, I think that queer writers were like, ‘Fuck this, I want to see representation. I want to create the world that I want to live in.'” The networks—Hallmark, Lifetime, Paramount—finally donned their gay apparel, justifying decades of passion for this historically heteronormative holiday. Because, honey, the gays have always been here for Christmas—even if Christmas hasn’t always been here for us.
“It’s so classic, so typical that the queer communities have often loved a lot of these institutions that have not necessarily loved us back,” said Ben Lewis, the other half of The Christmas Setup’s gay power couple, sharing a sentiment echoed by pretty much everyone else interviewed.
Benjamin Bradley, the host of Netflix’s Holiday Home Makeover with Mr. Christmas, had a theory: “I think there are certain elements [of Christmas] that we didn’t fully experience as children, because there was already a recognition that maybe we were different and we weren’t sure quite where we fit in. And so I think for gay men, I think even for Christmas enthusiasts, I think we’re chasing after that childhood comfort and safety that maybe we missed at that time.”
Nina West, a drag performer with an all-consuming affection for the holidays, came to a similar conclusion, pointing out that Christmas is “safe and familiar, and it’s also this idealized life. So when you’re young and queer, you are afraid—or at least, I was afraid of losing everything that I ever saw in front of me, and Christmas was one of the most sacred things.”
“I talk a lot about my childhood Christmases in Connecticut, which were very on-the-surface, very storybook, very Christmas card, very Hallmark,” said BenDeLaCreme, a fellow RuPaul’s Drag Race alum who released a feature-length holiday special with Jinkx Monsoon this year. “But in true WASP New England fashion, that’s just the shiny glaze on top of the hardened fruitcake that nobody wants. I always felt as a kid that, even though all the trappings were there, something didn’t feel how it seemed like it was supposed to feel.”
“Christmas was always my favorite time of year, because it was a time that I really felt like my family came together and put things aside and committed to doing their best to be a happy loving family,” said Monsoon, echoing her collaborator’s sentiment. “It was only as an adult that I look back on things and realize yes, that was there, but it was also traumatic at many moments. That challenge of trying to create the perfect holiday is inherently stressful, and puts us through the wringer.”
This trauma and fear of abandonment are an essential part of the queer Christmas experience—as much as our shared love of “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” But this unique layering of joy and pain isn’t exactly like what you see in, say, A Christmas Story or even It’s a Wonderful Life. You do see it in Happiest Season, 2020’s addition to the Christmas canon.
Victor Garber—a hero to a generation of gay people thanks to his work on Broadway, Titanic, Alias, Legends of Tomorrow, and just being Victor Garber—played it straight in Happiest Season as closeted Harper Caldwell’s uptight politician father. But the struggle depicted in the movie rang true for Garber. “I grew up a Jewish kid in Ontario. Christmas was always just a family thing, and I think that if you are accepted in your family, then [Christmas is a dream]. Otherwise, it’s a nightmare. I remember meeting a lot of gay kids when I was growing up who weren’t so happy about Christmas and, not unlike Happiest Season, would have to go home and pretend [to be straight].”
“I think the queer community has a pretty love/hate relationship with with the holidays in general,” said DeLa. “We’ve been inundated for decades with imagery about homecoming and family that doesn’t include us, it doesn’t represent us and isn’t necessarily representative of our experience. But at the same time, Christmas is glittery, and it’s colorful, and everybody puts on sequined sweaters and puts their trees in drag.”
Troll the ancient Yuletide, Carol!
“Your house becomes this other thing for this season,” said Lee, touching upon many gay men’s reason for the season. “I loved dressing up when I was a kid, and playing make believe. To see my whole family get into it was so huge. Because you’re like, ‘You’re doing what I want to do all the time!'”
Obviously decking the halls is a major source of joy during December—or, if your nickname is Mr. Christmas, even earlier. “Typically, we don’t really even acknowledge Halloween around here,” said Bradley, who’s turned his passion for pinecones and garland into a career and a Netflix series. That series—Holiday Home Makeover—serves a different purpose in 2020’s avalanche of gay content. That show is hosted by an out gay man who casually refers to his partner in front of the straight families he’s been tasked to make merry. Seeing a gay man openly talk his your same-sex partner at Christmas around strangers? That’s a transformative notion for a lot of gay people.
Even celebrating the holidays with your same-sex partner can be a little transformative—just ask Victor Garber. “My life changed when I met Rainer [Andreesen], my partner. My sister and I and my best friend Nikki, we used to meet every year for Christmas and we used to call it ‘Three Jews on Christmas.’ And then Rainer came into my life and everything changed.” It turns out, Garber is married to his own Mr. Christmas. “The first time he decorated our living space, I didn’t know what to do. There was no place to sit! The decorations were lavish and beautiful, because he’s a brilliant artist. From then on, our Christmases became something else. I just fell into it and was a very fortunate recipient of his generosity and his love for Christmas. I was kind of indoctrinated into the whole Christmas world. And happily so!”
Even if gay audiences haven’t seen literal gay characters on screen, we still have our touchstones. Benjamin Bradley loves Christmas in Connecticut for gay icon Barbara Stanwyck, and Nina West returns to White Christmas every year thanks to the looks and stunts of Vera-Ellen and Rosemary Clooney. BenDeLaCreme realized as an adult that Christmas at Pee-wee’s Playhouse is “the gayest thing,” in part because “Miss Yvonne is the best Christmas drag queen anyone could ever hope for.”
But when it comes to queer Christmas entertainment (pre-2020), it’s all about the Muppets. “I identified with A Muppet Christmas Carol, because I think Muppets are the closest thing to drag queens,” said Jinkx Monsoon. “I think I think you can justify that Miss Piggy is a drag persona.”
Ben Lewis (The Christmas Setup) agrees 100%: “A Muppet Christmas Carol is huge for me. Frank Oz, for example, is not a gay man, but somehow created Miss Piggy, who is the most iconic, most canonical ‘gay’ character.” While thinking aloud, Lewis realized why so many Christmas specials seem so low-key gay. “There is something very gay about puppetry and stop motion animation, just in general. Particularly with stop motion — to put that amount of painstaking detail, the amount of hand glittering that must have gone into the making of any one of those movies, is textbook gay.”
Another unlikely queer Christmas icon: the Grinch. “He’s this amazing bitchy gay guy! I kind of love that, with his little dog,” said Blake Lee of The Christmas Setup.
“I think an honorable mention would be the Jim Carrey Grinch movie,” said Monsoon, eliciting a teeny bit of surprise from BenDeLaCreme. “It inspired multiple drag performers to do sexy versions of the Grinch. [Laughs] Which, I love a sexy Grinch and I love a sexy Krampus. But also because Christine Baranski is in the film, and any film that Christine Baranski is in becomes queer with her presence.”
Santa’s Got a Brand New Bag (it’s Prada)
“I think that’s why drag queens love [Christmas]. I mean, girl, you can go into a Michael’s and grab ornaments off of a shelf and make them into earrings,” said Nina West, angling for her own holiday crafting show on whichever streaming service is smart enough to make it happen.
Mainstream cable networks are just catching up to something drag queens have known for years: Christmas is a time for content, honey. Just look at BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon, who have been performing over the holidays individually or together for a decade. 2020 marks their third year in a row collaborating on a holiday spectacular.
“We look at what the holiday traditions are, and then analyze what they’re rooted in, and then decide how we’re going to tear that apart,” said Monsoon of their creative process. “It’s taking something that continues to uphold the 1950s idea of what normal America looks like — and then just blowing it wide open and saying, ‘This is what it could look like, if queer people were considered.'”
West, who dropped a Christmas EP titled The West Christmas Ever in 2019, also makes the holidays an essential part of her drag. “I’m trying to stick to something that feels nostalgic, fresh, and from my point of view,” said West. “Because the holiday is — whether it’s Hanukkah or Christmas or Kwanzaa, whatever you are in the market to celebrate during this time of year — people are steeped in tradition.”
Tradition? Meet COVID-19. Fortunately for West, she had an entire EP of holiday tunes—like “Cha Cha Heels”—just waiting to be brought to life via music video. “I just couldn’t let the season pass — being that I was at home, being that I had the ability and some support, and some incredible partners — to just put something together and celebrate the holiday with a new video. I thought it was something I could do, so why not?”
The pandemic threatened to derail DeLa and Monsoon’s annual, all-new holiday experience, as it’s always been a stage show. “I think both of us somewhere in our minds were like, ‘Eh, someday we’ll [make a film],'” said DeLa. “But you know, 2020 said, ‘Now.'” The result is The Jinkx & Dela Holiday Special, a 67 minute long film that they pulled off while staying safe and distanced. “We not only sort of rose to the occasion of getting to create this type of content for ourselves, but we also got to deliver it at a time when it feels most needed.”
All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Gay Leads
“I think [Happiest Season is] groundbreaking because it’s an honest-to-god holiday-themed romcom that is for queer people, by queer people,” said Jinkx Monsoon of Happiest Season, Hulu’s star-studded, major studio gay holiday romcom starring Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis. Monsoon and DeLa were cast as local drag performers by director and co-writer Clea DuVall—herself a queer woman and drag superfan. For Monsoon, that authenticity comes across. “I see a lot of queer representation in media that was clearly written and directed by straight people, and is geared towards straight people. So at the end of the day, I’m watching something that’s totally queer and not relating to it at all. Whereas Happiest Season is not like that at all.”
The cast of Happiest Season knew they were doing something different. “We all felt like we had something quite unique and special,” Garber said of playing mayoral hopeful Ted Caldwell in the film. “I couldn’t believe this feeling on the set, just how everybody just clicked. It was amazing. And I think everybody was aware of it, and everybody you talk to would say the same thing. We just had a wonderful time. It just felt immediately like a family.”
On the small screen side of things (Happiest Season was slated for a theatrical release before COVID-19, thus its arrival on Hulu), Jonathan Bennett was keenly aware of the importance of Hallmark’s The Christmas House from day one. “I remember getting in the van, the first time I met [onscreen husband] Brad [Harder], and we were driving to set and I looked at him and I said, ‘You realize what we’re doing right?’ And he turned to me and said, ‘We’re making history.’ And right then, we just looked at each other and we knew.”
Gay creators have been trying to make history for a minute. Jake Helgren, the writer/director behind Paramount’s Dashing in December, is a veteran of the holiday TV movie business. He learned years ago, however, that even putting queer characters in supporting roles irked certain online trolls. That may be why he didn’t initially consider making Dashing in December a gay romance—and then leapt at the chance to make this particular dream come true (a dream starring out actors starring Peter Porte and Juan Pablo Di Pace).
“We originally pitched [Dashing in December] as a straight movie and at some point [producer Stephanie Slack] suggested [we make the leads two men],” said Helgren. “I said it would be a dream come true for me to tell that story.” This simple tweak opened up the entire story for Helgren, turning what was just a couple sentences of plot into a full-fledged screenplay that speaks to not only the holiday season, but to the specific experience of being gay in a small, rural community. Helgren was encouraged by Paramount to make Dashing in December the sweeping, theatrical romance he’d long dreamed of making: “If Brokeback Mountain and Sweet Home Alabama and Hallmark all got together and had a love child, [it would be Dashing in December].”
By casting gay actors, the performers felt emboldened to put their own experiences into their characters. Bennett felt incredibly lucky to be co-starring in an adoption storyline in The Christmas House alongside Harder—who’s gone through the adoption process twice with his husband. The baby that characters Brandon and Jake adopt in the film is even Harder’s real son.
The scene that mattered the most to Bennett, and every single queer person watching The Christmas House at home, was Brandon and Jake’s kiss—yes, a gay kiss on Hallmark. “That scene mattered more than any other scene in my career,” said Bennett. “When we were done with that scene, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. One of our art department guys who’s gay came up to me and had tears in his eyes. And he said, ‘You know, I do art department for a lot of Hallmark movies, and for the first time, I feel like I’m part of the family now, too.”
“[The Christmas House] is so inspiring as it [represents] so many different types of people that haven’t been able to share this story of love, family and Christmas,” Brad Harder wrote via email. “Diverse stories are needed because we matter, our stories matter and it’s important for these stories to get told.”
Ben Lewis felt compelled to make sure that his character’s emotional arc in Lifetime’s The Christmas Setup would resonate with gay audiences. “One thing that we wanted to see more of in the script was a sense that this community in Milwaukee had this strong, progressive, queer movement happening,” said Lewis. “The traditional narrative of these movies is the big city kid — which was me, in this case — gets drawn back into their hometown, and sort of reevaluating what their priorities are. And so I think for my character, who has this really thriving career in New York, it’s like, what is realistically going to draw him back to Milwaukee? And the answer is Patrick and the queer initiatives that he’s sort of spearheading in their community.”
May your gays be merry and bright
“It’s so refreshing to see something that really just gets to be lighthearted and heartwarming,” said BenDeLaCreme of Happiest Season. “So much queer representation is always tinged with that assumed tragedy of what it is to be a queer person. I mean, there are struggles [in Happiest Season]. The protagonists have to overcome things, but they’re still common, relatable experiences that seem like they’re in the canon, and not uniquely tinged with that sadness that we get put upon us, [sadness] that is not necessarily a part of how we enjoy the holidays.”
Brad Harder also felt proud to provide families with a film that’s filled with love. “Christmas can be a tough time of year as an adult. I haven’t been connected to my family since I came out, so it can be a sad time of year. The Christmas House is so important because it gives so many of us with these experiences the hope and joy of seeing a family of unconditional love and acceptance.”
It’s also not hyperbole to say that these movies, part of incredibly popular cable lineups that have become a 21st century tradition for millions of families, will change lives.
“These young people who are maybe in the closet and afraid to come out to their parents, maybe this Christmas will be a little different for them,” said Dashing in December writer Jake Helgren. “Maybe when they sit down and they see this film and other films like that are coming out, they’ll feel more comfortable having these open conversations with their parents.”
And if they don’t get the chance this year, there’s going to be plenty of opportunities next year. This is not a fab fad, and Jonathan Bennett knows it. “I’m so proud of Hallmark Channel because we already have projects greenlit for 2021 that are in development that are going to make the holiday table even bigger and better next year.”
“We love to watch stories about love, especially young people, they won’t have to wonder if they’re gonna find love,” said Helgren. “They’ll be able to see this and say, ‘No, I have a real chance at it.'” And that’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.
The Christmas Setup premieres on Lifetime on Saturday, December 12 at 8 p.m. ET
Dashing in December premieres on Paramount Network on Sunday, December 13 at 7 p.m. ET
Where to watch Happiest Season
Where to watch The Christmas House
Where to watch The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Special
Where to watch Holiday Home Makeover with Mr. Christmas


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Russian bombshell booted from Vladimir Putin’s National Guard due to ‘envy’

A bikini bombshell who won a Russian National Guard beauty contest claims she was booted from strongman Vladimir Putin ’ s military unit because of “ envy , ” according to a report .
Gun-toting Anna Khramtsova , a 32-year-old mother of one , beat more than 1,000 entrants to win the pageant last year , according to East2West News .
She was recently dismissed from the National Guard – the Kremlin ’ s internal military force , which reports directly to Putin — ostensibly for posting a video showing the inside of the premises where she worked , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showed a disinfection operation , has been removed but Khramtsova said she believes other revealing footage and images showing her love of bikini fitness competitions may have sparked jealousy and resulted in her ouster .
“ I was fired because they needed it , I crossed … someone , ” the ensign , who earlier claimed to be the victim of “ sexism ” in the Guard , told Govorit Moskva radio according to East2West News .
“ The reason for my dismissal was trifling , filming an administrative building during disinfection in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said , adding that only a “ narrow circle of people ” even saw the video in her native Yekaterinburg .
“ After the contest I got more envy , they learned about my hobby , my sports , so they got ready to kick me out from the service , ” she said .
“ Now they have done it.
” Khramtsova hinted she ’ ll appeal the decision , saying : “ In the near future I will decide what to do next .
But I just won ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the E1 news outlet that her win as Miss National Guard in the online pageant had proved divisive — with many female service members “ recoiling from me.
” “ I am very proud of this victory .
Some congratulated me , some showed envy .
Male colleagues congratulated , wrote a lot , some tried to meet me personally , ” she said .
“ Such a wave of popularity was very pleasant .
But many women in the service even stopped greeting me , ” Khramtsova said , adding that once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lady colleagues hardly talked to me.
” “ I don ’ t know why they reacted so sharply to this .
So I go on stage in a bikini — for some it ’ s a swimsuit , but for me this is a stage costume and nothing more , ” she continued .
“ Apparently , they envy me.
” After her win last year , she described how she faced “ those old jokes about blondes in service , but I ignore them — and just serve stylishly .
A source @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Komsomolskaya Pravda newspaper that her video had violated the rules .
“ Khramtsova showed the closed premises of the Russian Guard troops .
It is unacceptable , ” the spokesman said .
“ Compliance with the conditions of service is mandatory for all personnel and implies the personal responsibility of the employee.
” Khramtsova said she is from a military and law enforcement family — with her dad in the army and police for 30 years , and her mother also in uniform .
“ I am proud to continue the dynasty , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off the National Guard .

A bikini bombshell who won a Russian National Guard beauty contest claims she was booted from strongman Vladimir Putin’s military unit because of “envy,” according to a report.
Gun-toting Anna Khramtsova, a 32-year-old mother of one, beat more than 1,000 entrants to win the pageant last year, according to East2West News.
She was recently dismissed from the National Guard — the Kremlin’s internal military force, which reports directly to Putin — ostensibly for posting a video showing the inside of the premises where she worked, the outlet reported.
The video, which showed a disinfection operation, has been removed, but Khramtsova said she believes other revealing footage and images showing her love for bikini fitness competitions may have sparked jealousy and resulted in her ouster.
“I was fired because they needed it, I crossed … someone,” the ensign, who earlier claimed to be the victim of “sexism” in the Guard, told Govorit Moskva radio, according to East2West News.
Anna Khramtsova East2West
“The reason for my dismissal was trifling, filming an administrative building during disinfection in order to raise the spirits,” she said, adding that only a “narrow circle of people” even saw the video in her native Yekaterinburg.
“After the contest I got more envy, they learned about my hobby, my sports, so they got ready to kick me out from the service,” she said. “Now they have done it.”
Khramtsova hinted she’ll appeal the decision, saying: “In the near future I will decide what to do next. But I just won’t leave it like this.”
Anna Khramtsova East2West
She told the E1 news outlet that her win as Miss National Guard in the online pageant had proved divisive — with many female service members “recoiling from me.”
“I am very proud of this victory. Some congratulated me, some showed envy. Male colleagues congratulated, wrote a lot, some tried to meet me personally,” she said.
“Such a wave of popularity was very pleasant. But many women in the service even stopped greeting me,” Khramtsova said, adding that once her bikini fitness contests became known, “lady colleagues hardly talked to me.”
Anna Khramtsova East2West
“I don’t know why they reacted so sharply to this. So I go on stage in a bikini — for some it’s a swimsuit, but for me this is a stage costume and nothing more,” she continued. “Apparently, they envy me.”
After her win last year, she described how she faced “those old jokes about blondes in service, but I ignore them — and just serve stylishly.”
A source in the 340,000-strong military unit told the Komsomolskaya Pravda newspaper that her video had violated the rules.
Anna Khramtsova East2West
“Khramtsova showed the closed premises of the Russian Guard troops. It is unacceptable,” the spokesman said. “Compliance with the conditions of service is mandatory for all personnel and implies the personal responsibility of the employee.”
Khramtsova said she is from a military and law enforcement family — with her dad in the army and police for 30 years, and her mother also in uniform.
“I am proud to continue the dynasty,” she said before she was kicked out of the National Guard.


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Jenny Slate is pregnant, expecting first child with fiancé Ben Shattuck

Click to email this to a friend ( Opens in new window ) Click to share on Twitter ( Opens in new window ) Click to share on Facebook ( Opens in new window ) Jenny Slate ’ s been bumping along in quarantine .
The “ Parks and Recreation ” alum , 38 , announced on Thursday ’ s episode of “ Late Night With Seth Meyers ” that she ’ s pregnant .
It ’ ll be her first child with fiancé Ben Shattuck .
“ Let me tell you , on night one of the lockdown , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being together , real sweet with my fiancé , ” she said .
“ And then I did what everyone else did .
I kind of hunkered down and baked a lot of bread .
But I just want to say I think I might have baked too much bread or eaten too much bread .
You tell me , Seth.
” Slate then stood up to reveal her baby bump in a form-fitting black dress .
“ It ’ s different .
I feel different , ” she joked .
“ Um @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months been ?
They ’ ve been real pregnant for me.
” The former “ Big Mouth ” star announced in September 2019 that she and Shattuck had gotten engaged .
“ He took me to France and made a picnic and made me feel happy and free and then he asked me to marry him and I screamed YES , ” Slate wrote on Instagram .
She previously had an on-again , off-again relationship with Chris Evans .

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Jenny Slate’s been bumping along in quarantine.
The “Parks and Recreation” alum, 38, announced on Thursday’s episode of “Late Night With Seth Meyers” that she’s pregnant. It’ll be her first child with fiancé Ben Shattuck.
“Let me tell you, on night one of the lockdown, we had a really romantic night of being together, real sweet with my fiancé,” she said. “And then I did what everyone else did. I kind of hunkered down and baked a lot of bread. But I just want to say I think I might have baked too much bread or eaten too much bread. You tell me, Seth.”
Slate then stood up to reveal her baby bump in a form-fitting black dress.
“It’s different. I feel different,” she joked. “Um, how have the exact last nine months been? They’ve been real pregnant for me.”
Jenny Slate shows off her baby bump
The former “Big Mouth” star announced in September 2019 that she and Shattuck had gotten engaged.
“He took me to France and made a picnic and made me feel happy and free and then he asked me to marry him and I screamed YES,” Slate wrote on Instagram.
She previously had an on-again, off-again relationship with Chris Evans.


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Repair shop owner at center of Hunter Biden saga defends himself

The Delaware computer shop owner at the heart of the Hunter Biden laptop saga has released a video defending himself against allegations that he ’ s a “ Russian hacker ” or spy .
John Paul Mac Isaac said he was “ hired , never paid ” to transfer information from a MacBook Pro to an external hard drive — which was later found to contain bombshell emails about Hunter Biden ’ s overseas business dealings .
“ For two generations , the Mac Isaac family has fought for the entirety of the Cold War against communism in the ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 3-minute YouTube video titled “ The truth ” and posted Dec. 5 .
“ That ’ s why it ’ s completely absurd that why anyone would ever consider me to be a Russian agent or influenced by Russians .
I am proud of my family , I ’ m proud of my country .
I am proud to be an American.
” Mac Issac turned over a copy of the laptop to Rudy Giuliani ’ s lawyer , Bob Costello , after it and the external hard drive were seized by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the now-shuttered Mac Shop in Wilmington also dispelled rumors that he ’ s a hacker , calling the term a “ death sentence in my industry.
” “ For the record , I am not nor have I ever been a hacker .
Those guys make so much more money than I do .
I was hired — never paid — to perform a data transfer from a Macbook Pro to an external hard drive , ” he says , showing the invoice with Hunter Biden ’ s signature at the bottom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paperwork clearly states the process and sets the expectations .
There ’ s no magic or Hollywood .
The process is no different than dragging or dropping from a USB drive .
The only difference is I had to perform some surgery on the Mac to get it to boot.
” He adds , “ To imply that I ’ m a hacker or that information is hacked has an an irreversible impact on my business and my character.
” Mac Isaac ’ s lawyer Brian Della Rocca told USA Today last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after receiving death threats .

The Delaware computer shop owner at the heart of the Hunter Biden laptop saga has released a video defending himself against allegations that he’s a “Russian hacker” or spy.
John Paul Mac Isaac said he was “hired, never paid” to transfer information from a MacBook Pro to an external hard drive — which was later found to contain bombshell emails about Hunter Biden’s overseas business dealings.
“For two generations, the Mac Isaac family has fought for the entirety of the Cold War against communism in the ’70s,” Mac Isaac says in a 3-minute YouTube video titled “The truth” and posted Dec. 5.
“That’s why it’s completely absurd that why anyone would ever consider me to be a Russian agent or influenced by Russians. I am proud of my family, I’m proud of my country. I am proud to be an American.”
Mac Issac turned over a copy of the laptop to Rudy Giuliani’s lawyer, Bob Costello, after it and the external hard drive were seized by the FBI last year.
The owner of the now-shuttered Mac Shop in Wilmington also dispelled rumors that he’s a hacker, calling the term a “death sentence in my industry.”
“For the record, I am not nor have I ever been a hacker. Those guys make so much more money than I do. I was hired — never paid — to perform a data transfer from a Macbook Pro to an external hard drive,” he says, showing the invoice with Hunter Biden’s signature at the bottom of the document.
“The signed paperwork clearly states the process and sets the expectations. There’s no magic or Hollywood. The process is no different than dragging or dropping from a USB drive. The only difference is I had to perform some surgery on the Mac to get it to boot.”
He adds, “To imply that I’m a hacker or that information is hacked has an an irreversible impact on my business and my character.”
Mac Isaac’s lawyer Brian Della Rocca told USA Today last month that he’d closed his shop after receiving death threats.


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Tiffani Thiessen reveals which food she thinks is sexy

Click to email this to a friend ( Opens in new window ) Tiffani Thiessen dished to Page Six about all the ways food plays a role her life , including what she eats to feel “ sexy ” on a date night with her spouse .
The host of MTV ’ s “ Deliciousness ” revealed a certain kind of protein is one of her turn-ons .
“ It ’ s hard for me what I find sexy is probably not what other people think is sexy , but to me like short rib with a reduced sauce like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Thiessen , 46 , said .
“ Some people wouldn ’ t think that ’ s sexy.
” She and husband , Brady Smith , have been married since 2005 and share two children : 10-year-old Harper and 5-year-old Holt .
The former “ Saved By the Bell ” star said that the food she has trouble getting her kids to eat the most are vegetables , but their favorites are “ tacos , enchiladas and homemade pizza.
” One Thanksgiving , Thiessen said was getting ready to prepare the holiday meal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electricity in the kitchen of her new home was not working .
She shared , “ My neighbors were out of town , I called them and begged them if I could actually rent their kitchen for the afternoon so that I could actually try to finish some of my cooking to be able to put on a meal for my entire family.
” “ Deliciousness ” premieres Monday , Dec. 14 at 7 p.m .
ET on MTV .

Tiffani Thiessen dished to Page Six about all the ways food plays a role her life, including what she eats to feel “sexy” on a date night with her spouse.
The host of MTV’s “Deliciousness” revealed a certain kind of protein is one of her turn-ons.
“It’s hard for me, what I find sexy is probably not what other people think is sexy, but to me like short rib with a reduced sauce like polenta —that to me is sexy,” Thiessen, 46, said. “Some people wouldn’t think that’s sexy.”
She and husband, Brady Smith, have been married since 2005 and share two children: 10-year-old Harper and 5-year-old Holt.
The former “Saved By the Bell” star said that the food she has trouble getting her kids to eat the most are vegetables, but their favorites are “tacos, enchiladas and homemade pizza.”
One Thanksgiving, Thiessen said she was getting ready to prepare the holiday meal for her family when she realized the electricity in the kitchen of her new home was not working.
She shared, “My neighbors were out of town, I called them and begged them if I could actually rent their kitchen for the afternoon so that I could actually try to finish some of my cooking to be able to put on a meal for my entire family.”
“Deliciousness” premieres Monday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. ET on MTV.


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--New Movies + Shows to Watch this Weekend: Netflix’s ‘The Prom’ + More

I ’ m going to be honest , people , this Friday has been marked on my calendar for about a month now in anticipation for the big drop of movies and shows we are seeing on our favorite streaming platforms this weekend .
Could it be solely because this theater nerd has been tracking one Ryan Murphy project since seeing its inspiration on the big white way a few years back ?
Maybe , but whether you celebrate with Netflix , Hulu , Amazon Prime or all of the above , each streaming service has put out top-notch movies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will find entertainment this weekend .
But where to start ?
For what it ’ s worth , here ’ s our thoughts on what to watch this weekend and where to stream it .
New Movies and Shows to Stream This Weekend : The Prom , I ’ m Your Woman and Madagascar : A Little Wild- Season 2 There are a ton of big-ticket items up for your viewing pleasure starting today , so let ’ s jump in .
This author may be alone in her excitement-induced panic attack , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ musical The Prom has entered the building on Netflix .
But if you are not in the mood to happy cry and dance your butt off , then be sure to check out the documentary Giving Voice or the film short Canvas which are also debuting on the streaming platform .
Over on Amazon Prime Video you will find a bunch of new options including the original survivor series The Wilds and the crime drama I ’ m Your Woman , starring The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel ’ s Rachel Brosnahan .
And be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , High School Musical : The Musical : The Holiday Special for some holiday-themed fun .
We told you this weekend ’ s lineup was impressive !
But to get started , check out some highlights from the great movies and shows now streaming we ’ ve listed below : New on Netflix December 11 : The Prom It ’ s time to build a prom , for everyone !
After much anticipation ( from this author , at least ) the incredible film The Prom is new on Netflix this weekend .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same name — which was , in turn , inspired by a true story — this musical comedy tells the story of four down-on-their-luck Broadway stars who , in an attempt to salvage their decimated reputations , travel to a small town in Indiana to help a young high school student who has been banned from taking her girlfriend to the prom .
Producer and director Ryan Murphy ( AHS , Glee , Ratched ) is at the helm and cast Hollywood juggernauts Meryl Streep , James Corden , Andrew Rannells , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some “ zazz ” to the flick ; but the real stars of this dance-inducing yet heartwarming tale are none other than Ariana DeBose ( West Side Story , Hamilton ) and newcomer Jo Ellen Pellman who plays the “ little lesbian ” at the center of all the mess .
After a year like we ’ ve had , we could all use a little glitter and a reason to smile ; something you can find in heaping tons in The Prom , one of the top movies out on Netflix this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and regrettable prom dresses because it ’ s time to dance !
New on Hulu December 11 : Madagascar : A Little Wild Season 2 New on Hulu this weekend is season two of Madagascar : A Little Wild , the original animated series that centers on the kid versions of the film Madagascar ’ s main mammals as they embark on fun adventures in the streets of New York .
In season 2 , we catch up with lion Alex , zebra Marty , hippo Gloria and giraffe Melman as they find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have in the ever-changing city that is New York .
If your kid enjoyed the movies , they will fall in love with this series adaptation starring the vocal talents of Tucker Chandler , Amir O ’ Neil , Shaylin Becton , Luke Lowe and more .
New on Amazon Prime Video December 11 : I ’ m Your Woman Rachel Brosnahan ( The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel ) stars in I ’ m Your Woman , a 1970s crime drama that is new on Amazon Prime Video this weekend .
The thrilling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced to go on the run when her husband betrays his partners , sending her and her baby on a treacherous journey for their lives .
Also starring Bill Heck ( The Ballad of Buster Scruggs ) , Arinze Kene , Marsha Stephanie Blake ( When They See Us ) and more , I ’ m Your Woman is a crime drama that will keep you enthralled from the beginning to the very end .
Full List of New Movies and Shows on Streaming This Weekend The options above only scratch the surface @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s full lineup will have amazing options for what to watch this weekend !
For the full breakdown of the best movies and shows to stream now , or if you ’ re still undecided on what to stream this weekend , then check out the complete list below : A Trash Truck Christmas *NETFLIX FAMILY Canvas *NETFLIX FILM Giving Voice *NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY The Mess You Leave Behind ( El desorden que dejas ) *NETFLIX ORIGINAL The Prom *NETFLIX FILM Clifford the Big Red Dog : Season 3A *Amazon Original Series I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 2020 ) The Wilds : Season 1 *Amazon Original Series Victoria Small ( Pequeña Victoria ) : Season 1 Disney Channel ’ s Epic Holiday Showdown Disney Holiday Magic Quest Extras – Beyond the Clouds : Meet the Sobiechs *Disney+ Original Gender Revolution : A Journey with Katie Couric High School Musical : The Musical : The Holiday Special ( Premiere ) *Disney+ Original Ralph Breaks the Internet Safety ( Premiere ) *Disney+ Original The Mandalorian – “ Chapter 15 ” *Disney+ Original The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse – “ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ordinary Date ” *Disney+ Original Adult Material Midnight Family , 2020 ( HBO ) One Way Or Another , Season Finale ( HBO ) The Bee Gees : How Can You Mend a Broken Heart , Documentary Premiere ( HBO ) aTypical Wednesday ( 2019 ) Bay of Silence ( 2020 ) End of Sentence ( 2019 ) Friday The 13th ( 1980 ) Friday The 13th , Part II ( 1981 ) Friday The 13th , Part III ( 1982 ) Friday The 13th , Part IV : The Final Chapter ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ V : A New Beginning ( 1985 ) Friday The 13th , Part VI : Jason Lives ( 1986 ) Friday The 13th , Part VII : The New Blood ( 1988 ) Friday The 13th , Part VIII : Jason Takes Manhattan ( 1989 ) Godzilla ( 1998 ) Night Shift ( 1982 ) Tootsie ( 1982 ) Catherine Cookson ’ s The Glass Virgin | New to BritBox | 3 X 60 Catherine Cookson ’ s The Secret | New to BritBox | 3 X 60 Catherine Cookson ’ s The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 X 60 Catherine Cookson ’ s Tilly Trotter | New to BritBox | 4 X 60 Catherine Cookson ’ s A Dinner of Herbs | New to BritBox | 6 X 60 Catherine Cookson ’ s Colour Blind | New to BritBox | 3 X 60 Catherine Cookson ’ s The Moth | New to BritBox | 3 X 60 Catherine Cookson ’ s The Cinder Path | New to BritBox | 3 X 60 Catherine Cookson ’ s The Dwelling Place | New to BritBox | 3 X 60 Catherine Cookson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to BritBox | 3 X 60

I’m going to be honest, people, this Friday has been marked on my calendar for about a month now in anticipation for the big drop of movies and shows we are seeing on our favorite streaming platforms this weekend. Could it be solely because this theater nerd has been tracking one Ryan Murphy project since seeing its inspiration on the big white way a few years back? Maybe, but whether you celebrate with Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime or all of the above, each streaming service has put out top-notch movies and shows in which every genre fan will find entertainment this weekend. But where to start? For what it’s worth, here’s our thoughts on what to watch this weekend and where to stream it.
New Movies and Shows to Stream This Weekend: The Prom, I’m Your Woman and Madagascar: A Little Wild- Season 2
There are a ton of big-ticket items up for your viewing pleasure starting today, so let’s jump in. This author may be alone in her excitement-induced panic attack, but at long last the hit movie musical The Prom has entered the building on Netflix. But if you are not in the mood to happy cry and dance your butt off, then be sure to check out the documentary Giving Voice or the film short Canvas which are also debuting on the streaming platform. Over on Amazon Prime Video you will find a bunch of new options including the original survivor series The Wilds and the crime drama I’m Your Woman, starring The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’s Rachel Brosnahan. And be sure to tune into the Disney+ special, High School Musical: The Musical: The Holiday Special for some holiday-themed fun. We told you this weekend’s lineup was impressive! But to get started, check out some highlights from the great movies and shows now streaming we’ve listed below:
New on Netflix December 11: The Prom
It’s time to build a prom, for everyone! After much anticipation (from this author, at least) the incredible film The Prom is new on Netflix this weekend. Based on the 2016 hit musical of the same name — which was, in turn, inspired by a true story — this musical comedy tells the story of four down-on-their-luck Broadway stars who, in an attempt to salvage their decimated reputations, travel to a small town in Indiana to help a young high school student who has been banned from taking her girlfriend to the prom. Producer and director Ryan Murphy (AHS, Glee, Ratched) is at the helm and cast Hollywood juggernauts Meryl Streep, James Corden, Andrew Rannells, Nicole Kidman and many more to add some “zazz” to the flick; but the real stars of this dance-inducing yet heartwarming tale are none other than Ariana DeBose (West Side Story, Hamilton) and newcomer Jo Ellen Pellman who plays the “little lesbian” at the center of all the mess. After a year like we’ve had, we could all use a little glitter and a reason to smile; something you can find in heaping tons in The Prom, one of the top movies out on Netflix this month. So break out your cummerbunds and regrettable prom dresses because it’s time to dance!
Stream The Prom on Netflix
New on Hulu this weekend is season two of Madagascar: A Little Wild, the original animated series that centers on the kid versions of the film Madagascar’s main mammals as they embark on fun adventures in the streets of New York. In season 2, we catch up with lion Alex, zebra Marty, hippo Gloria and giraffe Melman as they find new places to explore and new experiences to have in the ever-changing city that is New York. If your kid enjoyed the movies, they will fall in love with this series adaptation starring the vocal talents of Tucker Chandler, Amir O’Neil, Shaylin Becton, Luke Lowe and more.
Stream Madagascar: A Little Wild Season 2 on Hulu
New on Amazon Prime Video December 11: I’m Your Woman
Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) stars in I’m Your Woman, a 1970s crime drama that is new on Amazon Prime Video this weekend. The thrilling film centers on a woman who is forced to go on the run when her husband betrays his partners, sending her and her baby on a treacherous journey for their lives. Also starring Bill Heck (The Ballad of Buster Scruggs), Arinze Kene, Marsha Stephanie Blake (When They See Us) and more, I’m Your Woman is a crime drama that will keep you enthralled from the beginning to the very end.
Stream I’m Your Woman on Prime Video
Full List of New Movies and Shows on Streaming This Weekend
The options above only scratch the surface, so you know that this weekend’s full lineup will have amazing options for what to watch this weekend! For the full breakdown of the best movies and shows to stream now, or if you’re still undecided on what to stream this weekend, then check out the complete list below:
New on Netflix- Full List
Released Friday, December 11
A Trash Truck Christmas *NETFLIX FAMILY
Canvas *NETFLIX FILM
Giving Voice *NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY
The Mess You Leave Behind (El desorden que dejas) *NETFLIX ORIGINAL
The Prom *NETFLIX FILM
New on Hulu- Full List
Released Friday, December 11
Madagascar: A Little Wild: Complete Season 2 (Hulu Original)
Rent-A-Pal (2020)
Spy Cat (2020)
Released Saturday, December 12
Endless (2020)
New on Amazon Prime Video- Full List
Released Friday, December 11
Clifford the Big Red Dog: Season 3A *Amazon Original Series
I’m Your Woman *Amazon Original Movie (2020)
The Wilds: Season 1 *Amazon Original Series
Victoria Small (Pequeña Victoria): Season 1
New on Disney+ – Full List
Released Friday, December 11
Disney Channel’s Epic Holiday Showdown
Disney Holiday Magic Quest
Extras – Beyond the Clouds: Meet the Sobiechs *Disney+ Original
Gender Revolution: A Journey with Katie Couric
High School Musical: The Musical: The Holiday Special (Premiere) *Disney+ Original
Ralph Breaks the Internet
Safety (Premiere) *Disney+ Original
The Mandalorian – “Chapter 15” *Disney+ Original
The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse – “The Brave Little Squire” & “An Ordinary Date” *Disney+ Original
New on HBO- Full List
Released Friday, December 11
Adult Material
Midnight Family, 2020 (HBO)
One Way Or Another, Season Finale (HBO)
Released Saturday, December 12
The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart, Documentary Premiere (HBO)
New on Starz- Full List
Released Friday, December 11
aTypical Wednesday (2019)
Bay of Silence (2020)
End of Sentence (2019)
Friday The 13th (1980)
Friday The 13th, Part II (1981)
Friday The 13th, Part III (1982)
Friday The 13th, Part IV: The Final Chapter (1984)
Friday The 13th, Part V: A New Beginning (1985)
Friday The 13th, Part VI: Jason Lives (1986)
Friday The 13th, Part VII: The New Blood (1988)
Friday The 13th, Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan (1989)
Godzilla (1998)
Night Shift (1982)
Tootsie (1982)
Released Sunday, December 13
Power Book II: Ghost: Episode 107
New on BritBox- Full List
Released Friday, December 11
Catherine Cookson’s The Glass Virgin | New to BritBox | 3 X 60
Catherine Cookson’s The Secret | New to BritBox | 3 X 60
Catherine Cookson’s The Wingless Bird | New to BritBox | 3 X 60
Catherine Cookson’s Tilly Trotter | New to BritBox | 4 X 60
Released Saturday, December 12
Catherine Cookson’s A Dinner of Herbs | New to BritBox | 6 X 60
Catherine Cookson’s Colour Blind | New to BritBox | 3 X 60
Catherine Cookson’s The Moth | New to BritBox | 3 X 60
Released Sunday, December 13
Catherine Cookson’s The Cinder Path | New to BritBox | 3 X 60
Catherine Cookson’s The Dwelling Place | New to BritBox | 3 X 60
Catherine Cookson’s The Rag Nymph | New to BritBox | 3 X 60


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Alabama took different route to get national title swagger back

The invincibility that once blanketed Alabama football has returned .
It ’ s different now , of course , compared to what it once was .
Before he hired Lane Kiffin to completely overhaul his archaic offensive philosophy , Nick Saban mastered the art of dominating football teams through defense , special teams and just enough offense , normally a running game , that was simply too overwhelming for teams to match .
This version of Alabama is not that .
It ’ s essentially the opposite of that .
This version of Alabama , now a -135 favorite to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is almost unrecognizable from the boa constrictor type of football Saban built when he arrived in Tuscaloosa .
And yet , the expectations feel similar .
The fear is back .
That sense of inevitability is alive and well .
And while we speculate over whether Ohio State is deserving of playoff consideration despite playing only five games , it feels like it ’ s more for show than anything else .
Alabama is 9-0 .
Despite being dealt an average spread of nearly 24 points , the Crimson Tide are 7-2 against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s No .
3 scoring offense .
And , despite a rocky start on that side of the ball , they have the No .
15 scoring defense .
A 29.5-point road favorite against LSU on Saturday , Alabama cruised 55-17 in Baton Rouge — a place that doesn ’ t typically ( or ever ) — see spreads of this magnitude .
Saban ’ s team made the football demolition look easy , thanks largely to quarterback Mac Jones and wideout DeVonta Smith .
( More on him in a minute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While it feels different and it looks much different , it feels like we ’ re approaching the position we were in back in 2017 , 2015 , 2012 , 2011 and 2009 championship seasons .
Alabama has its swagger back .
Sure , there are plenty of reasons why it might not culminate with a national title .
For starters , winning one is hard .
The Crimson Tide still likely have to face Florida and then , perhaps , Clemson , Notre Dame or Ohio State .
If all goes according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play two of those teams .
But the current championship odds speak volumes .
And if you watch the way this offense consistently overwhelms the opposition — without star wideout Jaylen Waddle , I might add — then -135 , despite the randomness and the quality of the opponents still in play , doesn ’ t sound all that bad .
It ’ s different , for certain .
And deep down Saban probably hates this brand of football .
But it ’ s hard to deny where Alabama appears to be headed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This was a football Picasso .
Forget that the Chanticleers won outright as an 8.5-point underdog , although that certainly played a significant part .
The fact that this game was born out of thin air and necessity in a matter of 48 hours , was greeted with overwhelming applause and then somehow actually met the hype is truly magnificent .
What a win for Coastal Carolina .
Bigger yet , what a season .
I thought this team would be physically outmatched against BYU , and it countered that notion by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , kudos to the Cougars .
It ’ s not easy to accept , prepare or travel cross-country on short notice .
They should be commended for that .
And that ending ?
Perfection .
Game of the year .
• Michigan-Ohio State isn ’ t happening .
Major COVID-19 issues with the Wolverines derailed this game .
While curiosity quickly turns to Ohio State and the College Football Playoff , I am far more intrigued to see what happens to Jim Harbaugh .
( Also , I think the Buckeyes will find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the other hand , is in a fascinating scenario .
There are rumors this week that he has been offered an extension at a lower salary .
There also are rumors that he could return to the NFL .
Not a bad spot to be in considering how bad it has been this year .
If I ’ m Harbaugh , I leave Ann Arbor .
It ’ s just not working .
Maybe a new staff could help change that .
Sure .
But it ’ s hard to escape the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moving forward .
Time for a fresh start .
• For as long as I am writing this column and the award is not announced , I will continue beating the same drum .
Give DeVonta Smith the Heisman .
Don ’ t fall in love with the quarterbacks like we do every year .
Give it to the best , most impactful player in college football this season .
I realize that his quarterback , Mac Jones , is a fantastic football player having a fantastic season .
His deep balls have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best player in the sport right now .
Last Saturday , he caught three touchdowns and went over 200 yards receiving against LSU … in the first half .
He ’ s a cheat code .
He ’ s the best wideout in Alabama history .
He ’ s a player who should win the Heisman .
He won ’ t , but he should .
The voting for this award is broken , which is unfortunate .
But to help unbreak it for the others to follow , please spread the word @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know who Karl Dorrell is ?
And for those who know of Dorrell , how much do you know about him ?
Be honest .
Dorrell is the head coach at Colorado .
His team is 4-0 .
When Dorrell was hired after the departure of Mel Tucker to Michigan State in late February , it felt like a bit of a reach .
Dorrell was the Dolphins ’ wide receivers coach before he was hired to lead Colorado in a pinch .
The collective response was somewhere between “ meh ” and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stanford , San Diego State and Arizona isn ’ t exactly the definitive path to coaching brilliance , kudos for a great start .
Colorado is a nice story in a weird year .
• Kansas covered a game against the spread .
Call your family .
Sounds the alarms .
Life can return to normal .
I feel obligated to keep you informed on all Kansas football matters because we ’ re in too deep at this point .
Heading into their game against Texas Tech , the Jayhawks were winless against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were a 26.5-point favorite , Kansas ultimately lost 16-13 .
For those rooting for Kansas to go an entire season without covering a game , those dreams are over .
And for Texas Tech fans , well , woof .

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The invincibility that once blanketed Alabama football has returned.
It’s different now, of course, compared to what it once was. Before he hired Lane Kiffin to completely overhaul his archaic offensive philosophy, Nick Saban mastered the art of dominating football teams through defense, special teams and just enough offense, normally a running game, that was simply too overwhelming for teams to match.
This version of Alabama is not that. It’s essentially the opposite of that. This version of Alabama, now a -135 favorite to win the national championship at Circa, is almost unrecognizable from the boa constrictor type of football Saban built when he arrived in Tuscaloosa.
And yet, the expectations feel similar. The fear is back. That sense of inevitability is alive and well. And while we speculate over whether Ohio State is deserving of playoff consideration despite playing only five games, it feels like it’s more for show than anything else.
Alabama is 9-0. Despite being dealt an average spread of nearly 24 points, the Crimson Tide are 7-2 against the spread. They have the nation’s No. 3 scoring offense. And, despite a rocky start on that side of the ball, they have the No. 15 scoring defense.
A 29.5-point road favorite against LSU on Saturday, Alabama cruised 55-17 in Baton Rouge — a place that doesn’t typically (or ever) — see spreads of this magnitude. Saban’s team made the football demolition look easy, thanks largely to quarterback Mac Jones and wideout DeVonta Smith. (More on him in a minute.)
Back to the inevitability. While it feels different and it looks much different, it feels like we’re approaching the position we were in back in 2017, 2015, 2012, 2011 and 2009 championship seasons.
Alabama has its swagger back. Sure, there are plenty of reasons why it might not culminate with a national title. For starters, winning one is hard. The Crimson Tide still likely have to face Florida and then, perhaps, Clemson, Notre Dame or Ohio State. If all goes according to plan, they’ll likely play two of those teams.
But the current championship odds speak volumes. And if you watch the way this offense consistently overwhelms the opposition — without star wideout Jaylen Waddle, I might add — then -135, despite the randomness and the quality of the opponents still in play, doesn’t sound all that bad.
It’s different, for certain. And deep down Saban probably hates this brand of football. But it’s hard to deny where Alabama appears to be headed.
Tidbits and Observations


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Bill Belichick can’t ignore the Jarrett Stidham question much longer

With rookie Cam Akers running wild for the Rams and ...

Cam Newton has seen a different Jarrett Stidham of late. It won’t be enough to cost Newton his job yet, though.
Patriots coach Bill Belichick shot down any talk of a quarterback change following Thursday night’s ugly 24-3 loss to the Rams that dropped New England to 6-7.
“Cam’s our quarterback,” Belichick said while cutting off a reporter’s question in the postgame press conference.
Newton, who is dealing with an abdominal injury, was pulled for Stidham early in the fourth quarter. The veteran finished 9-for-16 for 119 yards and threw a crushing pick-six on a horribly thrown screen pass that gave Los Angeles a 17-0 lead early in the second quarter.
“That’s not my call,” Newton said of a potential quarterback switch. “I’m just doing what I’m asked, with the mentality of getting better, and that’s what I keep planning on doing.”
Stidham completed 5-of-7 passes for 27 yards in his brief opportunity Thursday night. Stidham has appeared in four games this season, though three of those appearances came in mop-up duty.
Jarrett Stidham and Cam Newton Getty Images
When Newton missed a Week 4 tilt against the Chiefs, Stidham replaced Brian Hoyer in the second half in his only meaningful action of the season. Still, Newton has been impressed by what he has seen from the second-year quarterback in practice recently.
“Man, I’m so proud of Stid, man,” Newton said on WEEI’s “Greg Hill Show” this week.
“We had a chat (Monday) in the QB room, and honestly, his growth and his development is something that really caught my attention. Because I’ve known him enough to know I don’t know if he makes that throw or able to stay in that pocket — a murky pocket, for what it was — and fire an absolute strike to Gun Show.”
The loss dropped New England 2½ games behind the Colts for the final wild-card spot in the AFC. Newton’s running ability (451 yards, 11 touchdowns) has added a different facet to the Patriots offense, however, his current lack of arm strength and accuracy has limited the passing attack (five touchdowns, 10 interceptions) all season.
It seems unlikely the 31-year-old Newton, who signed a one-year deal last offseason, is the Patriots’ answer at QB beyond this season. Stidham may not be either, but Belichick could use the end of this season to better judge the former Auburn star and fourth-round draft pick.
“I’m always a (proponent) of winning football, and just to see him grow is something that I’m extremely pleased about,” Newton said of Stidham.


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--FDA to grant emergency use authorization for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine: HHS

Pfizer ’ s COVID-19 vaccine will get the green light for use in the US by the Food and Drug Administration — and vaccinations could begin as early as Monday , Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said Friday morning .
“ I ’ ve got some good news for you , ” Azar said on ABC ’ s “ Good Morning America.
” “ Just a little bit ago , the FDA informed Pfizer that they do intend to proceed toward an authorization for their vaccine.
” The vaccine , developed by Pfizer and German company BioNTech , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus in the US .
It was approved for use last week in the UK , with vaccinations rolled out to British citizens immediately .
The US news comes a day after an FDA advisory board voted to approve the drug for emergency use authorization following an all-day hearing of health experts .
“ So in the next couple of days , probably as we work to negotiate with Pfizer the information doctors need to prescribe it appropriately , we should be seeing the authorization of this first vaccine , ” Azar continued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ getting vaccinated Monday , Tuesday of next week .
”

Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine will get the green light for use in the US by the Food and Drug Administration — and vaccinations could begin as early as Monday, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said Friday morning.
“I’ve got some good news for you,” Azar said on ABC’s “Good Morning America.”
“Just a little bit ago, the FDA informed Pfizer that they do intend to proceed toward an authorization for their vaccine.”
The vaccine, developed by Pfizer and German company BioNTech, will be the first vaccine against the coronavirus in the US.
It was approved for use last week in the UK, with vaccinations rolled out to British citizens immediately.
The US news comes a day after an FDA advisory board voted to approve the drug for emergency use authorization following an all-day hearing of health experts.
“So in the next couple of days, probably as we work to negotiate with Pfizer the information doctors need to prescribe it appropriately, we should be seeing the authorization of this first vaccine,” Azar continued.
“We could be seeing people getting vaccinated Monday, Tuesday of next week.”


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Review: Taylor Swift’s ‘Evermore’ album is just more ‘Folklore’

`` This could have been a time where I absolutely lost ...

When you’re a pop superstar on the level of Taylor Swift — rarefied air only shared by the likes of Adele and Beyoncé — you don’t do anything small.
So instead of releasing a deluxe edition of “Folkore” — her surprise July release that’s the best-selling LP of 2020 — the 30-year-old “Shake It Off” singer dropped an entire “sister” album, “Evermore,” out of nowhere on Friday.
Arriving at the beginning of Hanukkah, two weeks before Christmas and two days before the star’s Dec. 13 birthday, it’s the ultimate gift for Swifties.
Consider your stocking stuffed.
But whereas “Folklore” came as a revelation — its moody, alt-folk intimacy a radical departure from the peppy pop of 2019’s “Lover” — “Evermore” is, well, more of the same.
That’s not to say it’s a bad thing — certainly not if the quarantine chill of “Folklore” was your jam. It’s just that, like most sequels, it doesn’t measure up to the original.
“The Godfather Part II,” it isn’t.
If anything, “Evermore” brings to mind when Justin Timberlake released “The 20/20 Experience — 2 of 2” just six months after dropping “The 20/20 Experience” in 2013. The best stuff — “Suit & Tie,” “Mirrors” — went on the first album; the second one got the outtakes.
But with the artistic heights that Swift reached on “Folklore” — which received six Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year — even her leftovers are solid, if not stellar. No doubt, T-Swizzle was in her singer-songwriter zone on 2020 lockdown.
The National’s Aaron Dessner, who produced and co-wrote much of “Folklore,” returns for even more duty here. In fact, his band — with vocals by lead singer Matt Berninger — is featured on the wistful “Coney Island.”
There are even more songwriting appearances by “William Bowery,” her secret name for boyfriend Joe Alwyn.
Meanwhile, sister act Haim appears on “No Body, No Crime,” a dark tale shadowed with suspicions of infidelity and murder. But the Chicks might have given this one more of an edge.
Elsewhere, “Dorothea” and “Marjorie” add to the fine catalog of character songs that Swift is building. On the latter, she kicks some meme-worthy wisdom: “Never be so polite, you forget your power/Never wield such power, you forget to be polite.” Word.
The title track is another haunting, piano-laced beauty with Bon Iver following their “Folklore” joint, “Exile.” They just need to do a whole album together already.
As with “Folklore,” it’s not about splashy singles on “Evermore.” It’s a vibe, though.
While industry cynics might think that Swift released “Evermore” just in time to boost her Grammy chances for “Folklore” — or to boost her bank account with no touring in 2020 and the uncertainty of any future road haul — it’s still a true artist getting real when the world needs it. And you can’t be mad at that.


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Homeless man bathing in a creek rescued after two days

A nalf-naked man in Bradenton , Florida , was pulled from a creek after he tried to bathe in the @ @ @ @ @ get out .
He told Manatee County deputies that he had been there for two @ @ @ @ @ is literally peeling off his feet , ” one deputy says in this dramatic rescue @ @ @ @ @ YouTube here .

A nalf-naked man in Bradenton, Florida, was pulled from a creek after he tried to bathe in the water but was unable to get out. He told Manatee County deputies that he had been there for two days. "His skin is literally peeling off his feet," one deputy says in this dramatic rescue video.
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newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Chinese authorities detain Bloomberg news assistant

A Chinese national working for the Bloomberg News bureau in Beijing has been detained on suspicion of endangering national security , the outlet and China ’ s Foreign Ministry said Friday .
Haze Fan , a news assistant , was seen being escorted from her apartment building by plainclothes security officials about 11:30 a.m. local time Monday , shortly after she had been in contact with one of her editors , according to Bloomberg .
The news agency said it has sought information on Fan ’ s whereabouts from Beijing and the Chinese embassy in Washington , DC .
Her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it said .
Bloomberg LP , the parent of Bloomberg News , received confirmation Thursday that she was being held on suspicion of participating in activities endangering national security .
“ We are very concerned for her , and have been actively speaking to Chinese authorities to better understand the situation .
We are continuing to do everything we can to support her while we seek more information , ” a Bloomberg rep said .
Fan , who joined Bloomberg in 2017 , previously worked for CNBC , CBS News , Al Jazeera @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ms .
Fan has been detained by the Beijing National Security Bureau according to relevant Chinese law on suspicion of engaging in criminal activities that jeopardize national security , ” the Chinese authorities said .
“ The case is currently under investigation .
Ms.
Fan ’ s legitimate rights have been fully ensured and her family has been notified , ” they added .
Chinese citizens can only work as news assistants for foreign news bureaus in China .
They are not permitted to do independent reporting .
Foreign media working in China @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than a dozen foreign journalists at American media outlets have been expelled this year after their press credentials were yanked amid worsening relations between Beijing and Washington , according to Reuters .
In August , Cheng Lei , a China-born Australian citizen working for state-run broadcaster CGTN , was detained in Beijing on suspicion of illegal activities that endangered China ’ s national security .
In September , Australia helped two correspondents leave China after they were questioned by the country ’ s state security ministry .

A Chinese national working for the Bloomberg News bureau in Beijing has been detained on suspicion of endangering national security, the outlet and China’s Foreign Ministry said Friday.
Haze Fan, a news assistant, was seen being escorted from her apartment building by plainclothes security officials about 11:30 a.m. local time Monday, shortly after she had been in contact with one of her editors, according to Bloomberg.
The news agency said it has sought information on Fan’s whereabouts from Beijing and the Chinese embassy in Washington, DC. Her family was informed within 24 hours, it said.
Bloomberg LP, the parent of Bloomberg News, received confirmation Thursday that she was being held on suspicion of participating in activities endangering national security.
“We are very concerned for her, and have been actively speaking to Chinese authorities to better understand the situation. We are continuing to do everything we can to support her while we seek more information,” a Bloomberg rep said.
Fan, who joined Bloomberg in 2017, previously worked for CNBC, CBS News, Al Jazeera and Thomson Reuters.
“Chinese citizen Ms. Fan has been detained by the Beijing National Security Bureau according to relevant Chinese law on suspicion of engaging in criminal activities that jeopardize national security,” the Chinese authorities said.
“The case is currently under investigation. Ms. Fan’s legitimate rights have been fully ensured and her family has been notified,” they added.
Chinese citizens can only work as news assistants for foreign news bureaus in China. They are not permitted to do independent reporting.
Foreign media working in China have come under mounting pressure, and more than a dozen foreign journalists at American media outlets have been expelled this year after their press credentials were yanked amid worsening relations between Beijing and Washington, according to Reuters.
In August, Cheng Lei, a China-born Australian citizen working for state-run broadcaster CGTN, was detained in Beijing on suspicion of illegal activities that endangered China’s national security.
In September, Australia helped two correspondents leave China after they were questioned by the country’s state security ministry.


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--‘Wonder Woman’ director Patty Jenkins lands new Star Wars movie ‘Rogue Squadron’

“ Wonder Woman ” director Patty Jenkins ’ next project will take her to a galaxy far , far away .
Jenkins will helm the next installment of George Lucas ’ iconic intergalactic franchise , “ Star Wars : Rogue Squadron , ” Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy revealed Thursday .
The announcement was made during Disney Investor Day , according to Entertainment Weekly .
Rogue Squadron will “ introduce a new generation of Star Wars pilots as they earn their wings and risk their lives in a boundary-pushing high-speed thrill ride , ” Kennedy said of the upcoming movie .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Squadron is the group of rebels that Luke Skywalker joined at the end of “ A New Hope , ” named after the group of people who sacrificed themselves to acquire the Death Star plans in “ Rogue One.
” Jenkins , who will be the first woman to direct a Star Wars feature film , announced her involvement in the project by filming a Twitter video outlining several personal reasons why she wanted to be involved in the project .
Along with “ Rogue Squadron , ” Lucasfilm announced a spinoff starring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Mandalorian ” character Ashoka Tano , played by Rosario Dawson .
Hayden Christensen will also revive his role as Anakin Skywalker ( and later , Darth Vader ) in the upcoming “ Obi-wan Kenobi ” series on Disney Plus .
The tentative date for Rouge Squadron to fly into theaters is Christmas 2023 .

“Wonder Woman” director Patty Jenkins’ next project will take her to a galaxy far, far away.
Jenkins will helm the next installment of George Lucas’ iconic intergalactic franchise, “Star Wars: Rogue Squadron,” Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy revealed Thursday.
The announcement was made during Disney Investor Day, according to Entertainment Weekly.
Rogue Squadron will “introduce a new generation of Star Wars pilots as they earn their wings and risk their lives in a boundary-pushing high-speed thrill ride,” Kennedy said of the upcoming movie.
In the Star Wars universe, Rogue Squadron is the group of rebels that Luke Skywalker joined at the end of “A New Hope,” named after the group of people who sacrificed themselves to acquire the Death Star plans in “Rogue One.”
Jenkins, who will be the first woman to direct a Star Wars feature film, announced her involvement in the project by filming a Twitter video outlining several personal reasons why she wanted to be involved in the project.
Twitter
Along with “Rogue Squadron,” Lucasfilm announced a spinoff starring “The Clone Wars” and “The Mandalorian” character Ashoka Tano, played by Rosario Dawson. Hayden Christensen will also revive his role as Anakin Skywalker (and later, Darth Vader) in the upcoming “Obi-wan Kenobi” series on Disney Plus.
The tentative date for Rouge Squadron to fly into theaters is Christmas 2023.


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Florida man pays neighbors’ utility bills for a second straight Christmas

A kind-hearted Florida businessman is playing Santa for the second holiday season in a row — this year reportedly paying the overdue utilities bills for 114 families who were at risk of losing service .
“ This year to me probably is more meaningful than last year with the pandemic and all the people out of work having to stay home , ” Michael Esmond , 74 , told CNN .
Esmond , the owner of a pool installation company in Gulf Breeze , shelled out over $ 7,600 this year for families whose bills were past due , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joanne Oliver , told the outlet .
“ People can ’ t afford to pay their bills and put food on the table , so I hope doing my part and paying some bills for these folks takes a little bit of stress off of them around Christmas time , ” Esmond said .
In addition to the pandemic , Gulf Breeze , a city on the Florida Panhandle , endured the wrath of Hurricane Sally .
Esmond said he was able to continue his generosity because his business this year did well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4,600 to help 36 families pay their water and gas bills .
But the business owner wasn ’ t always in the financial position he now enjoys , something he said helps him empathize with those struggling .
“ I have been down on my luck like people are today , where I had trouble paying bills and raising three daughters , ” he told CNN .
“ The gas company shut the gas off and we didn ’ t have any heat .
“ I can relate to people suffering and not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Esmond said .
“ That ’ s probably one of the biggest motivators for me , because I ’ ve been there .
”

A kind-hearted Florida businessman is playing Santa for the second holiday season in a row — this year reportedly paying the overdue utilities bills for 114 families who were at risk of losing service.
“This year to me probably is more meaningful than last year with the pandemic and all the people out of work having to stay home,” Michael Esmond, 74, told CNN.
Esmond, the owner of a pool installation company in Gulf Breeze, shelled out over $7,600 this year for families whose bills were past due, the city’s utility billing supervisor, Joanne Oliver, told the outlet.
“People can’t afford to pay their bills and put food on the table, so I hope doing my part and paying some bills for these folks takes a little bit of stress off of them around Christmas time,” Esmond said.
In addition to the pandemic, Gulf Breeze, a city on the Florida Panhandle, endured the wrath of Hurricane Sally.
Esmond said he was able to continue his generosity because his business this year did well.
Last year, he paid $4,600 to help 36 families pay their water and gas bills.
But the business owner wasn’t always in the financial position he now enjoys, something he said helps him empathize with those struggling.
“I have been down on my luck like people are today, where I had trouble paying bills and raising three daughters,” he told CNN. “The gas company shut the gas off and we didn’t have any heat.
“I can relate to people suffering and not being able to pay bills,” Esmond said. “That’s probably one of the biggest motivators for me, because I’ve been there.”


newyorkpost--2020-12-11--Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai charged under new Chinese security law

Imprisoned Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has reportedly been charged under the city ’ s new national security law @ @ @ @ @ foreign forces .
The charge against the 73-year-old billionaire , who is a prominent pro-democracy @ @ @ @ @ his own tabloid paper , Apple Daily , which is known for its critical coverage @ @ @ @ @ .
The security law Lai was charged under was imposed in June and punishes what @ @ @ @ @ , subversion , terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in jail @ @ @ @ @ appear in court on Saturday , Apple Daily reported .
He was arrested in August @ @ @ @ @ fraud in connection to the lease of a building that houses his anti-government tabloid .
@ @ @ @ @ , D.C. , to rally support for Hong Kong democracy .

Imprisoned Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai has reportedly been charged under the city’s new national security law on suspicion of colluding with foreign forces.
The charge against the 73-year-old billionaire, who is a prominent pro-democracy activist, was announced by his own tabloid paper, Apple Daily, which is known for its critical coverage of China and Hong Kong.
The security law Lai was charged under was imposed in June and punishes what Beijing broadly defines as secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces with up to life in jail.
Lai is due to appear in court on Saturday, Apple Daily reported.
He was arrested in August on a separate charge of fraud in connection to the lease of a building that houses his anti-government tabloid.
Lai often travels to Washington, D.C., to rally support for Hong Kong democracy.
With Post wires