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Merce Cunningham: The Events at Dia Beacon Screening and Panel Discussion – The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts

New York, NY, February 26, 2024 – The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts will present the world theatrical premiere of Merce Cunningham: The Events at Dia Beacon, a 40-minute film drawing on footage from the Merce Cunningham Dance Company’s unique, site-specific Events at Dia Beacon in 2008 and 2009. The screening will take place on Monday, April 8, at 6pm, at the Library’s Bruno Walter Auditorium at Lincoln Center.

From 2007 to 2009, the Merce Cunningham Dance Company presented a series of Cunningham’s Events in the galleries of Dia Beacon. This film, edited by award-winning film director/editor Daniel Madoff, is a compilation from five of these site-specific stagings with footage from the dress rehearsals and live performances.

Says producer Nancy Dalva: “The film creates an entirely new cinematic event with linkages revealing the choreographer’s idiosyncratic methodology and acute sensitivity to environment. Cunningham arranged these multi-stage performances after careful site visits, taking into account the space, the artworks, the natural light, and the specific properties of each gallery, or, as he called it, ‘situation.’ Of Richard Serra’s ‘Torqued Ellipses,’ he said, ‘It was like dancing next to the pyramids.’ The music, commissioned for each space, was live.”

After the screening, Nancy Dalva will chat with director Daniel Madoff, Jennifer Goggans, Merce Cunningham Trust Program Director and guest artist with Gandini Juggling, and choreographer duo Rashaun Mitchell and Silas Riener. All were members of Merce Cunningham Dance Company during the Events at Dia.

This world premiere event, free to the public, fittingly takes place at the Library for the Performing Arts, where the Jerome Robbins Dance Division preserves the Merce Cunningham archives.

Advance registration for the screening is required. To register, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/merce-cunningham-the-events-at-dia-beacon-screening-and-panel- discussion-tickets-775813407787

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, Bruno Walter Auditorium, is located at 40 Lincoln Center Plaza (entrance at 111 Amsterdam Avenue, between 64th and 65th Streets), New York, NY 10023.

Merce Cunningham (1919–2009) was a celebrated dancer and choreographer renowned for his groundbreaking work and his profound influence on generations of dancemakers and artists. Born in Centralia, WA, he attended the Cornish School in Seattle, where he was introduced to the work of Martha Graham and met the composer John Cage who would become his closest collaborator and life partner. In 1939, after relocating to New York City, Cunningham began a six-year tenure as a soloist in the Graham company, and soon began presenting his own choreography. In the summer of 1953, during a teaching residency at Black Mountain College, Cunningham formed a dance company to explore his innovative ideas. The Merce Cunningham Dance Company remained in continuous operation until its closure in 2011, with Cunningham as artistic director until his death in 2009. Over the course of his 70-year career he choreographed 180 dances and more than 700 Events, collaborated with such renowned artists as Robert Rauschenberg, Jasper Johns, David Tudor, and Christian Wolff, and earned some of the highest honors bestowed in the arts.

Nancy Dalva is a writer, documentarian, and the Scholar in Residence of the Merce Cunningham Trust. She produced and wrote the web series Mondays with Merce, and produced the videos in the Mondays with Merce Film Library—all available on the Trust’s YouTube channel. She made her debut as an independent producer with “The Event at REDCAT, Mikhail Baryshnikov with the Merce Cunningham Dance Company.” This evening she is delighted to bring “The Events at Dia Beacon” to the Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center, home to the Merce Cunningham Archive. She wants to especially thank Linda Murray, Anne H. Bass Curator, Jerome Robbins Dance Division, and the wonderful Dance Division staff for making the evening possible.

Daniel Madoff is a film director, cinematographer, editor, and producer. His work includes award- winning films that have screened worldwide and commercials for national television campaigns. He has created content for Bacardi, St-Germain, Aberfeldy, Anheuser-Busch, Dewar’s, Gillette, LinkedIn, Grey Goose, Michelob Ultra, BMW, Bank of America, People, BBC America, Princeton University, Johns Hopkins University, Ailey II, Dance Theatre of Harlem, and Trisha Brown Dance Company, among others. His Rhiannon Giddens music video featuring the Pennsylvania Innocence Project recently aired on The Daily Show. Before entering the world of film, Madoff was a dancer with the Merce Cunningham Dance Company.

About The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts is dedicated to enhancing access to its rich archives of dance, theater, music, and recorded sound—to amplify all voices and support the creative process. As one of The New York Public Library’s renowned research centers—and one of the world’s largest collections solely focused on the performing arts—the Library’s materials are available free of charge, along with a wide range of special programs, including exhibitions, seminars, film screenings and performances. The collection at the Library for the Performing Arts includes upwards of eight million items, notable for their extraordinary range and diversity—from 11th-century music to 20th-century manuscripts to contemporary hip-hop dance.

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Jennie C. Jones: Tonal Center – Alexander Gray Associates

Alexander Gray Associates, New York presents Jennie C. Jones: Tonal Center, the artist’s third solo exhibition with the Gallery. Turning to the geometry of musical notation, hushed colors often activated by red tones, and poetic language to create evocative abstractions, Tonal Center highlights Jones’s ability to synthesize reductive compositional strategies and measured improvisation, crafting objects that bridge visual and sonic perception.

This new body of work expands upon the concerns of the artist’s most recent New York exhibition at the Guggenheim in 2022. Tonal Center borrows its title from a recent piece of Jones’s writing, wherein she describes her “search for a free and shifting tonal center with sound, paint, and collage.” The term—a synonym for the key of a composition, or the note around which a composition’s chords and melody harmonically meld—embodies the steady yet ranging deconstruction of modernist visual languages that Jones’s practice embarks upon, making space for new meaning through, in the artist’s words, “the radicality of refusal and the courage that it requires.”

In a departure from earlier Acoustic Panel Paintings, which were constructed from noise-absorbing fiberglass panels, Jones’s recent canvases also employ architectural felt, an industrial material also known for its sound dampening qualities. Just as the use of felt pushes Jones’s paintings into more sculptural, relief-like domains, so too does the mingling of fiberglass and felt allow each object to create its own hushed sonic environment. The artist wraps the sides of her recent canvases in felt, viewing this dynamic gesture as a simultaneous crescendo and diminuendo for the work. In this way, the felt both punctuates the canvas’s relationship with the wall and allows the work to expand and diminish in impact as it reaches its visual conclusion. Bridging wall and floor, Phrasing to the floor, softly (Active Pedal) (2024) literalizes Minimalism’s recasting of painting as object while subverting its art historical constraints, using built up geometries and monochromatic blocks of color. Its composition and that of other related works emphasize, per Jones, “a maximalist minimalist approach [which] means my practice is rich in metaphor, research, concept, yet paired down to its vernacular.”

The exhibition’s works largely diverge from the cool grays of Jones’s characteristic palette; instead, they draw on a warmer variety of neutral hues made available by a specialty acoustic textile manufacturer. Activating contrasting visual echoes, Jones’s tonal progressions create alternating moments of dissonance and harmony through the counterbalance of serial repetition and rhythmic development.

Tonal Center highlights the interrelated visual chords that Jones’s work has built over time, channeling through her hybrid objects the spirit and tradition of experimental music as well as its critique by Black sonic practitioners. Recent variations in the color, materiality, and architectural physicality of the work bring to a pitch evasive transformations within Jones’s oeuvre—a series of slow transpositions that refuses to be codified.

Jones’s solo exhibitions include Jennie C. Jones: Dynamics, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York, NY (2022); Jennie C. Jones: Constant Structure, The Arts Club of Chicago, IL (2020); Compilation, Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, TX (2016); Absorb/Diffuse, The Kitchen, New York, NY (2013); Directions: Jennie C. Jones: Higher Resonance, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC (2013); Counterpoint, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, San Francisco, CA (2011); and RED, BIRD, BLUE, Atlanta Contemporary Art Center, GA (2009), among others. Her work has been included in numerous group exhibitions, including In With The New…, Philadelphia Museum of Art, PA (2022); Grief and Grievance: Art and Mourning in America, New Museum, New York, NY (2021); Prospect.5: Yesterday we said tomorrow, New Orleans, LA (2020); Ground/work, Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, Williamstown, MA (2020); Riffs and Relations: African American Artists and the European Modernist Tradition, The Phillips Collection, Washington, DC (2020); and The Shape of Shape, The Museum of Modern Art, New York, NY (2019), among others. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Anonymous Was A Woman Award (2017); Rose Art Museum, Ruth Ann and Nathan Perlmutter Artist-in-Residence Award (2017); Robert Rauschenberg Award (2016); Joan Mitchell Foundation Grant (2013); The Studio Museum in Harlem, Joyce Alexander Wein Artist Prize (2012); and William H. Johnson Prize (2008).

More information on Jennie C. Jones: Tonal Center

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Social Abstraction – Frieze Los Angeles – Gagosian

LOS ANGELES, February 13, 2024—Gagosian is pleased to announce its participation in Frieze Los Angeles 2024 with Social Abstraction, a diverse selection of paintings and sculptures rooted in the exploration of historic qualities of abstraction and contemporary social realities. The first in a sequence of three presentations organized by Antwaun Sargent, Social Abstraction at Frieze Los Angeles will be followed by exhibitions in Beverly Hills this summer and in Hong Kong this fall.

The intergenerational group of Black artists in Social Abstraction operates beyond purely formal concerns to create artworks that move between and beyond figuration and abstraction. They push shape to become landscape, color to reveal people, and texture to map the totality of experience.

Combining painting and collage, Rick Lowe uses abstraction as a means to explore social systems and communal relationships, an aspect of his practice that catalyzes civic change. The complex network of nodes and paths in 22 Rhymes in a Row: Homage to John Outterbridge (2023) recalls both maps of urban areas and the game of dominoes in a tribute to the pioneering Los Angeles–based artist and community activist. The brushstrokes of Ithaka #4 (2023) suggest lines of text without resolving into legible letters or words, partially obscuring a collage of photographs picturing the Ionian landscape.

Working with industrial roofing materials and the alchemical power of flame, Theaster Gates creates abstract works inspired in part by his father’s career as a professional roofer that allude to skilled labor and craft practices. Gates’s interest in material transformation as a spiritual act extends to the swelling forms of Vessel (2023), a ceramic work fired in the high temperatures of a traditional Japanese anagama kiln. Lauren Halsey’s sculpture watts happening (2024) comprises tiered blocks with text derived from historic signs that emerged from the Black Arts movement and community initiatives of 1960s Watts, and the repeated neologism “FreedomEx” in a design that appropriates the form of a corporate logo to demand liberation. The palette of red, black, and green reflects the colors of Pan-African unity in this work, while a color-blocked spectrum of synthetic hair cascades down the surface of a wall-mounted work from 2023, embodying the power and exuberance of self-adornment.

Lady with Pin and Man with Braids (both 2024) by Derrick Adams evoke Synthetic Cubism, drawing on both abstraction and figuration to paint two portraits in profile. By composing with faceted planes to convey facial features in varied skin tones, Adams suggests the multiplicities of individual and collective identity while subtly alluding to the formal considerations of landscape painting. Painted with energetic brushstrokes in an intensely contrasting palette, Cy Gavin’s Untitled (Pollarded mulberry tree) (2023) depicts a street tree with branches cut to constrain its growth. His Untitled (Converging paths) (2023) uses gestural marks to define an allover composition of a crossroads, where the trace of human passage intersects with abundant plant life.

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“True Detective,” Renewed for a Fifth Season

HBO has renewed the critically acclaimed original drama series TRUE DETECTIVE for a fifth season. This season, ‘True Detective: Night Country,’ concluded February 18. Additionally, under a new multiyear overall deal with HBO, Issa López will create content exclusive to HBO and Max, including the next season of “True Detective.”

Francesca Orsi, Executive Vice President, HBO Programming, Head of HBO Drama Series and Films, quote: “Issa Lopez is that one-of-a-kind, rare talent that speaks directly to HBO’s creative spirit. She helmed ‘True Detective: Night Country’ from start to finish, never once faltering from her own commendable vision, and inspiring us with her resilience both on the page and behind the camera. Alongside Jodie and Kali’s impeccable performances, she’s made this installation of the franchise a massive success, we are so lucky to have her as part of our family.”

Issa López, Showrunner, Writer, and Executive Producer, quote: “From conception to release, Night Country has been the most beautiful collaboration and adventure of my entire creative life. HBO trusted my vision all the way, and the idea of bringing to life a new incarnation of True Detective with Casey, Francesca and the whole team is a dream come true. I can’t wait to go again.”

About “True Detective: Night Country”: When the long winter night falls in Ennis, Alaska, the eight men who operate the Tsalal Arctic Research Station vanish without a trace. To solve the case, detectives Liz Danvers (Jodie Foster) and Evangeline Navarro (Kali Reis) will have to confront the darkness they carry in themselves, and dig into the haunted truths that lie buried under the eternal ice. The season stars Jodie Foster, Kali Reis, Finn Bennett, Fiona Shaw, with Christopher Eccleston, Isabella Star LaBlanc, and John Hawkes. Guest stars include Anna Lambe, Aka Niviâna, and Joel D. Montgrand.

“True Detective: Night Country” is the most watched season of “True Detective,” with 12.7 million cross platform viewers.

The Ringer declared “True Detective: Night Country” as the “first can’t-miss show of 2024” while Rolling Stone hailed it as “a gripping mystery from creator Issa Lopez… ‘True Detective’ is must-see TV again.” New York Magazine proclaimed the new season is “appointment viewing [with] powerhouse performances.”

Season 4 credits: Showrunner, writer, director, executive producer, Issa López; star and executive producer, Jodie Foster. Executive Producers: Mari Jo Winkler; Barry Jenkins, Adele Romanski, and Mark Ceryak for PASTEL; Chris Mundy; Alan Page Arriaga; Steve Golin; Richard Brown; Matthew McConaughey; Woody Harrelson; Cary Joji Fukunaga; Nic Pizzolatto. Producers: Princess Daazhraii Johnson; Cathy Tagnak Rexford; Sam Breckman.

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Rosa Bonheur’s American Dream to be auctioned on 20 March – Christie’s

Paris – Christie’s France is pleased to announce its annual Old Master and 19th Century Drawings sale. On 20 March, in Paris, the 2024 edition of this sale will be largely devoted to preparatory studies and sketches. Headline of the sale is an important and unpublished pastel on light brown paper by Rosa Bonheur (1822-1899) kept for generations and until today in the same French family. 

A recent retrospective at the Musée d’Orsay helped giving Rosa Bonheur (1822-1899) her righteous place in Art History. Right from the beginning of her drawing and painting career, this long forgotten artist and icon of women’s emancipation, was deeply committed to depicting animals, their singularity, as well as the relationship between animals and people.

Fascinated by the American West, where she never stepped foot, Rosa Bonheur met William F. Cody, known as Buffalo Bill, in Paris in 1889. Alongside Native American performers and bisons, Bufallo Bill was the main protagonist of the Wild West Show, a stage performance meant to present the American West to Parisian audiences. A portrait of the legendary buffalo hunter, painted at the time by Rosa Bonheur is now preserved at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Wyoming, USA. Her instant fascination for bisons is well epitomized in Étude pour l’Émigration des bisons, a preparatory work for a painting now held in a private collection. In pristine condition, this very large pastel on light brown paper by Rosa Bonheur offers a subtle, detailed and natural depiction of the bisons, their coat, their eyes and of the surrounding snowy vegetation. Undoubtedly one of the season’s highlight at Christie’s, the work is estimated €100,000-150,000|US$110,000-160,000|£86,000-130,000.

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What are AI (Artificial Intelligence) “hallucinations”?

AI hallucinations, also known as confabulations or delusions, are situations where AI models generate confident responses that lack justification based on their training data. This essentially means the AI fabricates information that wasn’t present in the data it learned from.

While similar to human hallucinations in concept, AI lacks the sensory experiences we have.

Here are some examples:

An AI chatbot might confidently state that Tesla’s revenue was $13.6 billion, when it was actually $1 billion.An AI translator might add information to a translated article that wasn’t in the original text.A chatbot might invent an entire story about an event that never happened.

What causes these hallucinations?

The exact reasons are still under investigation, but some potential causes include:

Incomplete or biased training data: If the AI lacks sufficient information or has information with biases, it’s more likely to invent things to fill the gaps.Lack of context: AI can struggle to understand the context of a situation, leading to inaccurate or irrelevant responses.Algorithmic errors: Bugs in the AI’s algorithm might cause it to generate false information.

Why are AI hallucinations problematic?

These hallucinations can have negative consequences, such as:

Spreading misinformation: False information generated by AI can spread online and cause harm.Decision-making errors: If AI is used for important decisions, hallucinations can lead to costly mistakes.Loss of trust in AI: If people can’t trust AI to provide accurate information, they might not use it, hindering its potential benefits.

What’s being done to address this?

Researchers are actively working to understand AI hallucinations better and develop solutions to prevent them. Here are some potential approaches:

Improving the quality and quantity of training data: This can involve using more diverse and accurate data sets.Developing more robust AI algorithms: This means creating algorithms less prone to generating false information.Educating people about the limitations of AI: This helps people understand that AI isn’t perfect and can sometimes make mistakes.

In conclusion, AI hallucinations are a significant concern that needs to be addressed to ensure the safe and responsible use of AI technology.

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10 Things You Didn’t Know About Robbie Amell

Robbie Amell, born in Toronto on the cusp of the digital revolution, has risen through the ranks of Hollywood with a quiet tenacity often overlooked by glitzier narratives. From his early modeling days at the age of six to captivating audiences as Stephen Jameson in The CW’s ‘The Tomorrow People’, Amell’s journey reflects a blend of talent and continuous transformation, making his career a fertile ground for exploration.

Robbie Amell

In unmasking the man behind the roles, this article delves into the less known facets of Robbie Amell’s life—from his stage beginnings and career-defining performances to personal pursuits and off-screen ventures. Each revelation affords a new perspective on Amell, who not only shines in front of the camera but also takes pride in his work as an executive producer and his commitment to his personal life.

Early Life and Beginnings

Robbie Amell’s entry into the world of acting began early, with his first taste of the spotlight coming at just six years old in the form of advertisements. His passion for performance quickly extended to the stage, where school plays provided a platform for his burgeoning talent. This early exposure to acting laid a foundation for a career that would soon take off.

Early Appearances:Film debut in “Cheaper by the Dozen 2” (2005)Role in the horror film “Left for Dead” (2007)

Amell’s transition from advertisements and school plays to the silver screen marked a significant leap in his career. His film debut in “Cheaper by the Dozen 2” showcased his potential, while his part in “Left for Dead” hinted at a versatility that would become more apparent as his career progressed.

Rise to Recognition:Nickelodeon series “True Jackson, VP” (2008)Guest roles in “Degrassi: The Next Generation” and “Unnatural History”

The actor’s breakthrough came with his role in the Nickelodeon series “True Jackson, VP,” which positioned him in the limelight and introduced him to a younger demographic. His versatility was further evidenced by guest roles in popular TV shows like “Degrassi: The Next Generation” and “Unnatural History,” which diversified his acting portfolio.

Establishing a Niche:Television career began with “Life with Derek”Gained fame as Ronnie Raymond/Firestorm in “The Flash”Stars in Amazon Prime series “Upload” and voices in “Pantheon”Directorial venture with “The Short History of the Long Road”

Robbie Amell didn’t just stop at acting; he also explored the realms of voice acting and directing. Starting his television career with shows like “Life with Derek,” he later became a familiar face in the CW superhero universe with his role in “The Flash.” His current work includes starring in the innovative Amazon Prime series “Upload” and lending his voice to the animated series “Pantheon.” His directorial skills were showcased in the short film “The Short History of the Long Road,” adding another facet to his multi-dimensional career.

Breakthrough Roles and Career Highlights

Robbie Amell’s career trajectory took a definitive turn when he landed the role of Ronnie Raymond/Firestorm on the television series “The Flash.” This character quickly became a fan favorite and showcased Amell’s ability to bring depth to a complex role. His portrayal of Firestorm is often cited as a career highlight, earning him recognition beyond his previous works.

Notable Television Roles:“The Tomorrow People” (2013-2014): Played the lead role of Stephen Jameson, a performance that solidified his position in the sci-fi genre.“The Flash” (2014-present): As Ronnie Raymond/Firestorm, Amell’s character is pivotal to the series’ narrative, displaying his range as an actor.

Amell’s early career was marked by his performance in “Runaway,” which opened doors to more significant opportunities. His role in ‘Cheaper by the Dozen 2’ as Daniel Murtaugh was his first major movie role and served as a stepping stone to more prominent parts. Over the years, Robbie Amell has consistently chosen roles that challenge him and allow him to grow as an actor, contributing to his steady rise in the entertainment industry.

Career Milestones:First major movie role in ‘Cheaper by the Dozen 2’ (2005)Transitioned to lead television roles, starting with “The Tomorrow People”Became a household name with “The Flash”

Robbie Amell’s work in both television and film has not only garnered him a loyal fan base but has also demonstrated his versatility and dedication to his craft. His commitment to developing his skills is evident in the range of characters he has portrayed, from family comedies to action-packed superhero series. With each role, Robbie Amell continues to leave an indelible mark on the industry, promising even more exciting performances in the future.

Personal Life

Robbie Amell’s personal life is as rich and varied as his on-screen characters. Born into a family of actors on April 21, 1988, in Toronto, Canada, he was no stranger to the world of acting from an early age. He honed his craft at the Canadian Studios Acting Academy, setting the stage for a successful career in entertainment.

Family and Relationships:Tied the knot with actress Italia Ricci in July 2016.Began their romance in 2008 and took the next step with an engagement in 2014.The couple’s journey together has been a testament to their strong bond, yet they have chosen not to have children as of now.

Beyond the camera, Robbie is a dual citizen of Canada and the United States, having secured his US citizenship in January 2020. His life off-set is characterized by a blend of hobbies and personal interests that paint a picture of a well-rounded individual.

Interests and Passions:A fitness enthusiast, Robbie often shares his workout routines on social media platforms.Finds joy in cooking and values time spent with family, embodying the role of a dedicated family man.Multilingual capabilities, speaking both French and English fluently.

Robbie’s involvement in the arts extends beyond acting. With a background in musical theater, he continues to contribute to the creative world through his production company, Well-Bred Films. His charismatic presence is complemented by his sense of style and a strong connection with his fans. Additionally, his skills in martial arts and his commitment to environmental causes showcase a man of diverse talents and convictions.

Off-Screen Ventures

Robbie Amell’s off-screen ventures highlight his entrepreneurial spirit and his knack for recognizing compelling stories. In a significant crowdfunding success, Robbie and his cousin Stephen Amell raised $1.7 million through Indiegogo for their science fiction feature “Code 8.” This film explores a world where individuals with special abilities, known as ‘specials,’ live in poverty and often resort to crime in the face of increasingly militarized police forces.

Following the success of “Code 8,” Robbie Amell is set to produce and star in “Float,” a film adaptation of a popular Wattpad novel. The production will be managed by Collective Pictures, the same company behind “Code 8.” “Float” tells the story of Waverly, who moves from Alaska to a sunny beach town after her parents’ divorce. There, she encounters Blake, an arrogant local, setting the stage for an engaging narrative. Wattpad, the platform where “Float” originated, is a hub for creative content with around 50 projects in development, showcasing its influence in the digital storytelling space.

Aron Levitz, head of Wattpad Studios, has expressed his enthusiasm for the project, citing the global fanbase and millions of reads as indicators of the story’s potential to captivate audiences worldwide. Robbie Amell’s ventures into production demonstrate his commitment to bringing fresh, dynamic content to the screen, further cementing his role as a multifaceted figure in the entertainment industry.

Robbie Amell Used Stephen Amell’s ID When He Was Underage

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Stephen Amell

Stephen Amell, a Canadian actor renowned for his striking presence on-screen, was born in Toronto and has since crafted a diverse career spanning television and film. His impressive ascent to mainstream fame burgeoned with the titular role in the CW’s hit series “Arrow,” capturing audiences’ fascination and earning him a special spot in the pantheon of modern TV superheroes.

In charting his progression from guest spots on series like “The Vampire Diaries” to leading roles and professional wrestling engagements, this article delves into Amell’s significant contributions to entertainment. Readers will traverse the path of Amell’s varied career, uncovering the depth and breadth of his work beyond the Arrowverse, along with glimpses into his personal life.

Rise to Stardom: Arrow & The ArrowverseStephen Amell

Stephen Amell’s portrayal of Oliver Queen, also known as Green Arrow, in the Arrowverse is a defining moment in his career. His character, a vigilante hero in Star City, has been a central figure in the Arrow series, evolving through various alter egos and facing different versions of himself. Amell’s dedication to the role extended beyond the screen; he also contributed as an executive producer on Arrow, demonstrating a deep investment in the series.

His camaraderie with fellow Arrowverse actors is evident off-screen as well. Amell’s support for Grant Gustin’s Broadway endeavors highlights the strong bonds formed during their time on the Arrowverse shows. Moreover, Amell’s willingness to reprise his iconic role in James Gunn’s DC Universe shows his attachment to the character and his openness to exploring Oliver Queen’s future narratives.

Amell continues to captivate audiences with his diverse roles post-Arrow. He reunited with Emily Bett Rickards, his Arrow co-star, in the Western film Calamity Jane, and fans can anticipate his performance in the upcoming Netflix sequel Code 8: Part II. His personal life, including his marriage to Cassandra Jean Amell, who appeared in the Arrowverse as Nora Fries, and his involvement with WWE, showcases the multifaceted nature of his interests and talents.

Beyond Arrow: Diverse Roles and Ventures

Stephen Amell’s career trajectory took a dynamic turn post-Arrow, showcasing his versatility as an actor with a slew of diverse roles and projects. One of his noteworthy endeavors is the anticipated series Suits: LA, where he steps into the shoes of Ted Black, a sharp former New York prosecutor who ventures into the glitzy world of entertainment law. This character stands in stark contrast to the vigilante persona of Oliver Queen, offering Amell a fresh landscape to explore his acting prowess. Fans of Amell can expect to see a different side of his talent as Ted Black navigates the complexities of Hollywood’s legal battles with a blend of charisma and shrewdness.

Stephen Amell’s New Ventures:Cast as Ted Black in Suits: LA, a major role post-Arrow.Second season of Heels in the works, with potential wrestling collaborations.Confidential WWE project set to coincide with Heels Season 2 release.

Despite the cancellation of his performance in Heels, Amell’s involvement in Suits: LA positions him for a significant comeback. The series promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, with Ted Black’s character drawing parallels to Oliver Queen in terms of charm and a complex past, yet differing in his reluctance for power and the ethical intricacies of his new role. Additionally, Amell’s engagement with the wrestling world continues as he teases a secretive WWE project, aligning with the narrative of Heels and his genuine interest in the sport.

Contrasts and Comparisons:Oliver Queen vs. Ted Black:Both characters exude charisma and grapple with their pasts.Oliver willingly takes on power; Ted is more cautious and strategic.Oliver fights crime; Ted navigates the legalities for his clients.

Amell has openly shared his thoughts on James Gunn’s decision to recast Green Arrow, expressing support for the future of DC Studios. His candidness reflects a forward-looking perspective, one that embraces change and new opportunities. With the announcement of his role in Suits: LA, Amell is set to introduce audiences to a new protagonist in the bustling city of Los Angeles. This role, coupled with his ongoing projects, cements Stephen Amell’s status as a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, continually evolving and captivating his audience with each new character portrayal.

Professional Wrestling Engagements

Stephen Amell’s foray into the wrestling world has garnered attention, complementing his acting career with a series of memorable appearances in the ring. His debut in the wrestling scene came in 2015 at WWE SummerSlam, where his athleticism was on full display. Teaming up with Neville, they took on the formidable duo of Stardust and King Barrett, securing a victory that resonated with fans and showcased Amell’s commitment to the sport.

Stephen Amell’s Wrestling Milestones:2015 WWE SummerSlam: Teamed with Neville, defeating Stardust and King Barrett.Ring of Honor Participation: Competed in the 2017 five-man match at Survival of the Fittest.All In 2018: Faced off against Christopher Daniels in a singles match.

Amell’s passion for wrestling extends beyond the professional arena, as evident in his portrayal of a wrestling promotion owner in the Starz drama “Heels.” This role allowed him to blend his acting skills with his wrestling knowledge, further cementing his connection to the sport. His participation in independent promotions like Ring of Honor and All In reflects his genuine enthusiasm for wrestling, an interest that dates back to watching old WWF matches.

Despite an injury sustained at All In, which temporarily sidelined his wrestling pursuits, Amell’s contributions to the sport have been warmly received. His appearances have not only delighted fans but also contributed to his growing popularity across the entertainment industry. While he has expressed a desire to avoid the ring until “Arrow” filming concludes, his wrestling engagements remain a highlight of his diverse career. Stephen Amell’s name has become synonymous with dedication and versatility, whether he’s in front of the camera or inside the wrestling ring.

Personal Life

Stephen Amell’s journey off-screen is as compelling as his on-screen personas, marked by personal milestones and philanthropic efforts. Born on May 8, 1981, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Amell’s life took a romantic turn when he tied the knot with Cassandra Jean, with whom he shares a daughter and a son. Their family life, though private, is occasionally shared with fans through social media, offering glimpses into the actor’s personal world.

Family and Personal Connections:Born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.Married to Cassandra Jean, a fellow actor.Father to a daughter and a son.

Amell’s passion extends beyond acting to the wrestling ring, where he engages with the sport he loves. His appearances in WWE, Ring of Honor, and All Elite Wrestling are a testament to his dedication. Further showcasing his commitment to social causes, Amell has leveraged his platform to support charities like Fuck Cancer and Emily’s House, raising significant funds through Represent.com campaigns.

Interests and Philanthropy:Avid fan and participant in professional wrestling.Active in charity, supporting Fuck Cancer and Emily’s House.

Amell’s career has not been without its controversies, with several incidents reported in 2015, 2018, 2020, 2021, and 2023. Yet, these have not overshadowed his accomplishments, including his memorable roles as Oliver Queen in “Arrow” and Jack Spade in “Heels,” and as Casey Jones in “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows.” His openness about these challenges reflects a candid and human aspect, resonating with fans who appreciate his authenticity.

Career and Controversies:Launched acting career with TV guest appearances; rose to fame as Oliver Queen/Green Arrow.Portrayed Jack Spade in “Heels” and Casey Jones in “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.”Addressed personal controversies publicly, maintaining a connection with his audience.Arrow‘s Star Stephen Amell Tear Through American Ninja Warrior Course – Full Video

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Code 8 (2019) Movie Review: A Dystopia of Robbers and Superheroes

“Code 8” is a movie directed by Jeff Chan, and written by Chris Paré. It stars Stephen Amell, Robbie Amell and Kari Matchett.

This film successfully combines the genres of robbers and superheroes, creating a captivating story with a good dystopian idea. Despite not having a huge budget, it manages to meet all expectations and goals. The combination and dystopian concept make it an interesting watch.

Code 8Plot

In a world where superpowers are hunted down, a young boy with abilities gets involved in shady deals to save his mother’s life. She needs a medical intervention.

About the Film

The idea and execution of this movie are impressive, creating an entertaining thriller without relying too much on special effects. It features a good-looking young lead, appealing to the younger audience, and a well-crafted script that avoids catastrophic outcomes while still being a superhero film. And all this is done without a large budget.

The story follows the classic heist formula: a good-hearted boy caught up in criminal activities. The dystopian element is well integrated into the plot without feeling forced. The film targets a younger audience but still respects its characters, creating engaging dialogue and situations based on a coherent script. It aims to entertain while maintaining a balanced approach.

The action scenes are clever and not overly reliant on special effects. This movie knows its strengths and how to build itself, evolve, and entertain without relying on blockbuster budgets. It has to be better in terms of script to succeed, and it does just that.
It successfully entertains, captures attention, and even seduces.

Our Opinion

It surpasses all expectations, delivering a captivating dystopian thriller that leaves a great impression.

Code 8Where to Watch “Code 8”

Netflix

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Tucker Wetmore Breaks Onto The Country Scene With Viral Debut Release “Wine Into Whiskey”

NASHVILLE, Tenn. –  Back Blocks Music’s emerging Country artist Tucker Wetmore is breaking onto the Country scene with his highly-anticipated debut release, “Wine Into Whiskey,” available everywhere today. Since teasing the song on TikTok in Dec. 2023, the single has taken off like wildfire, garnering over 65K pre-saves, 16M+ TikTok views and over 24K+ user-generated videos ahead of release with no signs of slowing down. The song releases with his first-ever visualizer out now.

Tucker Wetmore – “Wine Into Whiskey”

“Putting out my debut single is a moment I’ve been waiting for for a very long time. This song felt like the right first release because of how it resonated with people,” shares Wetmore. “Growing up with four sisters who mean everything to me, I’ve witnessed how they’ve been treated in relationships, and that was the inspiration behind this song. Two of my best friends, Jacob Hackworth and Justin Ebach helped me bring it to life, and I thought it’d be a good way to bring light to situations that others might be going through. Maybe, it might even help a few boys turn into men through a little self-reflection if they are on the wrong side of the narrative. This is just the beginning of what I’ve got in store, and I’m pumped for y’all to finally have it.”

“Wine Into Whiskey” narrates the regret-laden end of a relationship, giving listeners an often untold glimpse into a girl’s heartbreak from a guy’s perspective. From the outside looking in at his sisters’ different heartbreaks, Wetmore crafted a narrative that acknowledges self-sabotage and the struggle between a man’s nature and a partner’s genuine efforts to salvage the relationship. The dramatic beat and Wetmore’s twangy Country vocals build to a heartbreaking crescendo as the chorus hits, intensifying the pain as he watches her once sweet wine turn into harsh and intoxicating whiskey. 

As “Wine Into Whiskey” continues to build Wetmore’s following to over 600K strong, fans continue to simultaneously clamor for the unreleased track “Wind Up Missing You.” Reaching over 38K user-generated videos and more than 7.5M views, the Country crooner continues to build his catalog of songs, with more music expected very soon.

Since moving to Nashville in 2020, the small-town Kalama, Wash. native inked a publishing deal with Back Blocks Music in 2023 – which is also home to songwriters Lily Rose, Ashley Cooke and Blake Pendergrass – as he continues to hone his craft in some of Music City’s most sought-after writing rooms. Come April, Wetmore will hit the road for the first time on Kameron Marlowe’s Strangers Tour, kicking off in Nacogdoches, Texas (4/4) and will span across the U.S. before concluding on May 23 in Fort Myers, Fla.. Keep up with Wetmore on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and his website at tuckerwetmore.com.

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