Sizzling Samachar: Vince Vaughn’s ‘Bad Monkey’ returns for a second serving of madness; Ted Danson’s detective charm returns: ‘A Man on the Inside’ gets season 2

Welcome to another episode of your daily news podcast, I'm your host Nikhil. News first from Hollywood.

Vince Vaughn’s ‘Bad Monkey’ returns for a second serving of madness

Get ready to dive back into the zany, sun-soaked chaos of Bad Monkey as the Apple TV+ hit returns for season two with Vince Vaughn reprising his role as the snarky ex-cop turned health inspector, Andrew Yancy. Based on Carl Hiaasen’s novel, this Bill Lawrence creation blends murder-mystery with absurd hilarity, following Yancy as he investigates a severed arm fished up in the Keys, hoping to reclaim his badge. With a stellar cast featuring Rob Delaney, Natalie Martinez, and Michelle Monaghan, expect more gripping antics and tropical intrigue. Season one is streaming now, so catch up before the heat rises!

Disney+ swings, but misses: Pixar's ‘Win or Lose’ tweaks Transgender storyline

Pixar’s much-anticipated animated series Win or Lose is pitching for February 19, 2025, but not without controversy. The show, which chronicles the off-field lives of a middle school softball team called the Pickles, has axed a transgender subplot from one episode. While Disney confirmed the character remains, references to gender identity were cut, citing parental discretion as the reason. Chanel Stewart, the transgender voice actress behind the character, expressed disappointment, saying such stories are vital. The move reignites debates around LGBTQ+ representation in youth content, as Disney navigates the backlash and strives to maintain its box office-winning streak.

Ted Danson’s detective charm returns: ‘A Man on the Inside’ gets season 2

Ted Danson isn’t done sleuthing yet! Netflix has renewed A Man on the Inside for a second season, set to drop in 2025. The comedy, inspired by the Oscar-nominated documentary The Mole Agent, follows Charles played by Danson, a widower-turned-undercover investigator cracking quirky retirement home crimes. Created by Mike Schur known for his work on The Good Place, the show debuted on November 21, 2024, earning a Golden Globe nod for Danson and a spot on AFI’s TV Programs of the Year list. Packed with humour, heart, and a stellar ensemble cast, this feel-good hit promises even more hilarious detective misadventures in the coming year.

Pills, Thrills, and Big Bills: Amazon picks up dark comedy ‘200 Monas’

Amazon MGM teams up with Imagine Entertainment to bring Jan Saenz’s darkly hilarious debut novel 200 Monas to life. Think Uncut Gems meets a college senior’s worst nightmare—48 hours to offload her late mom’s stash of mind-bending pills. Joining her chaotic quest? A charming local dealer with a surprisingly golden heart. Saenz, who snagged a deal with Little Brown for the book’s publication, will adapt and executive produce, with Imagine’s Brian Grazer and Jeb Brody on board. From Thirteen Lives to Judy Blume Forever, this Amazon-Imagine dream team guarantees a wild ride. Can’t wait? Same here!

Pitch Perfect Scream Queen: Anna Camp joins the bloodcurdling roster of ‘Scream 7’

Anna Camp is trading a cappella for screams, joining the cast of Scream 7, directed by Kevin Williamson. Known for her versatility in Pitch Perfect and True Blood, Camp’s role remains shrouded in mystery. The film sees Neve Campbell return as Sidney Prescott after sitting out the sixth instalment due to pay disputes, with Mason Gooding reprising his role as Chad Meeks-Martin. Fresh faces like Isabel May (1883), Mckenna Grace, and Asa Germann also join the chaos. Slashing its way to screens on February 27, 2026, Scream 7 promises fresh chills while keeping its iconic legacy alive. Stream Scream VI now on Paramount+!

Denzel Washington might join the Wakandan throne as 'Black Panther 3' begins development

The Marvel Cinematic Universe just got a major roar of excitement as Kevin Feige confirms Black Panther 3 is officially in development. While details remain as elusive as vibranium, Nate Moore, a driving force behind the first two films, is stepping into a new producer role for the franchise's next chapter. Adding to the buzz, Denzel Washington hinted at playing a Ryan Coogler-penned role in the film, teasing a potential crossover of legends. Though no release date has been announced, you can stream Black Panther and Wakanda Forever on Disney+ while awaiting more Wakandan wonders!

The Cordyceps saga marches On: ‘The Last of Us’ season 3 already in pre-production

While Season 2 of The Last of Us is set for a mid-2025 release, fans can rejoice as whispers of Season 3 have emerged. Reports suggest pre-production is underway, with filming expected to begin in Vancouver by summer 2025. Co-creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann will return alongside top-notch directors, while Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey continue to navigate Joel and Ellie’s harrowing journey, delving deeper into The Last of Us: Part II. As the apocalyptic tale expands, rewatch Season 1 on Max to prepare for more fungus-fueled drama and emotionally gripping storytelling.

Bluey heads to the big screen in 2027

Grab your popcorn because the beloved blue heeler, Bluey, is leaping from TV screens to cinemas in a theatrical debut slated for 2027! Disney and BBC Studios are teaming up for this CG-animated feature film written and directed by series creator Joe Brumm. Fans can expect a heartwarming family adventure featuring Bluey, her sister Bingo, and their iconic parents, Bandit and Chilli, voiced by David McCormack and Melanie Zanetti. With music by Joff Bush and production by animation veteran Amber Naismith, this film promises to capture the magic of the Emmy-winning series. Stream Bluey now on Disney+.

Well that's all we got for this episode, until the next one it's your host Nikhil signing out.

Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poocho

- Written by Apurva Dutta

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