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WWE’s Vince McMahon Resigns From TKO Group After Sexual Assault Lawsuit on January 27, 2024 at 3:23 am Us Weekly

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WWE’s Vince McMahon has resigned from the TKO Group amid his sexual assault, trafficking and abuse lawsuit.

McMahon, 78, announced Friday, January 26, that he is stepping down from his role of executive chairman at the media conglomerate that was created by Endeavor Group Holdings as part of a merger between the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) last year. The news comes just one day after former WWE staffer Janel Grant claimed she was a victim of “physical and emotional abuse, sexual assault and trafficking” during her employment under McMahon.

“Out of respect for the WWE Universe, the extraordinary TKO business and its board members and shareholders, partners and constituents, and all of the employees and Superstars who helped make WWE into the global leader it is today, I have decided to resign from my executive chairmanship and the TKO board of directors, effective immediately,” McMahon shared in a statement to Us Weekly on Friday.

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McMahon, who previously denied the allegations made by Grant, added, “I stand by my prior statement that Ms. Grant’s lawsuit is replete with lies, obscene made-up instances that never occurred, and is a vindictive distortion of the truth. I intend to vigorously defend myself against these baseless accusations, and look forward to clearing my name.”

Related: Hollywood’s Sexual Misconduct Scandals

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While Hollywood may appear to be all glitz and glam on the surface, the industry has seen its fair share of scandals through the years. The New York Times and the New Yorker first published investigative pieces in 2017 that accused disgruntled movie producer Harvey Weinstein of decades of sexual assault and harassment. Soon after, Weinstein stood trial and was […]

Us obtained documents on Thursday, January 25, in which Grant alleged that McMahon displayed an “increasing lack of boundaries” after they met in 2019, claiming he would greet her “in his underwear, touched her, repeatedly asked for hugs, and spent hours sharing intimate details about his personal life.”

According to Grant, McMahon “pushed” her to engage in a physical relationship in exchange for a job at WWE. Because she allegedly feared “negative consequences” if she turned him down, she claims she ultimately “[succumbed] to the pressure.”

McMahon also allegedly shared sexually explicit photographs of Grant with other men within the WWE, had “increasingly depraved sexual demands” and coerced her into having sex with other staffers at the company headquarters during working hours. This included WWE general manager John Laurinaitis, who was also named in the lawsuit along with the corporation as a whole.

Grant claimed the WWE knew about the “wrongdoing” and attempted to cover it up, with McMahon attempting to silence her with a nondisclosure agreement. McMahon also allegedly “attempted to traffic her to a WWE star.”

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After the news made headlines, TKO claimed that they were “internally” addressing the situation. “Mr. McMahon does not control TKO nor does he oversee the day-to-day operations of WWE,” a TKO spokesperson told Us in a statement on Thursday. “While this matter pre-dates our TKO executive team’s tenure at the company, we take Ms. Grant’s horrific allegations very seriously and are addressing this matter internally.”

Related: Breaking Down WWE Boss Vince McMahon’s Sexual Misconduct Scandal, Fallout

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Vince McMahon was the CEO and Chairman of the Board at World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) for decades before “voluntarily” stepping down. McMahon, who was a former pro wrestler before taking over the WWE business, confirmed in June 2022 that he was resigning from his post while the company investigated misconduct claims against him. “I have […]

A spokesperson for McMahon, meanwhile, called Grant’s allegations “lies, obscene made-up instances that never occurred, and a vindictive distortion of the truth,” adding that the pro wrestler will “vigorously defend himself.”

This is not the first time McMahon has faced sexual assault charges. In June 2022, a former employee accused him of paying a $3 million settlement to cover up an alleged affair. Vince, who has been married to wife Linda McMahon since 1966, denied the claims at the time before voluntarily stepping down as CEO of WWE during an internal investigation. Vince’s daughter, Stephanie McMahon, served as co-CEO and chairwoman of the board of directors following her father’s exit. She resigned from the company less than a week after his return in January 2023.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

Peter Kramer/Getty Images WWE’s Vince McMahon has resigned from the TKO Group amid his sexual assault, trafficking and abuse lawsuit. McMahon, 78, announced Friday, January 26, that he is stepping down from his role of executive chairman at the media conglomerate that was created by Endeavor Group Holdings as part of a merger between the 

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Entertainment

Zendaya Earns $1 Million Per Episode: A New Milestone in TV History

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Zendaya, the 28-year-old star of HBO’s hit series “Euphoria,” has made television history by securing a groundbreaking contract for the show’s upcoming third season. The Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actress will now earn an impressive $1 million per episode, cementing her status as one of the highest-paid actors on television.

Zendaya and Tim Holland

This monumental pay raise comes after Zendaya’s critically acclaimed performances in the first two seasons of “Euphoria,” where she portrays the complex character of Rue Bennett, a high school student grappling with substance abuse issues. Her powerful portrayal has not only captivated audiences but also earned her numerous accolades, including two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.

A Record-Breaking Achievement

Zendaya’s new salary puts her in an elite group of television actors who have reached the million-dollar-per-episode milestone. This exclusive club includes the cast of “Friends” in their final season and the lead actors of “Game of Thrones”. At 28, Zendaya is now believed to be the youngest actor to achieve this feat, as well as the highest-paid Black female actor on television.

Impact on the Industry

This landmark deal reflects the changing landscape of television salaries, particularly in the era of streaming and premium cable networks. It also highlights the industry’s recognition of Zendaya’s immense talent and star power. As an executive producer on “Euphoria” since its second season, Zendaya has demonstrated her value both in front of and behind the camera.

What This Means for “Euphoria”

With Zendaya’s new contract, HBO has shown its commitment to the future of “Euphoria.” The series, known for its raw and unflinching portrayal of teenage life, has garnered a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. Zendaya’s increased salary suggests that the network is invested in maintaining the show’s quality and retaining its star talent.

Looking Ahead

As fans eagerly await the third season of “Euphoria,” questions arise about potential production timelines and how Zendaya’s other high-profile projects, such as “Dune: Part Two,” might affect scheduling. However, HBO’s willingness to negotiate such a substantial contract indicates their flexibility and determination to keep Zendaya on board.

Zendaya’s historic achievement not only marks a personal milestone but also sets a new standard in the television industry. It underscores the value of exceptional talent and the evolving nature of actor compensation in the contemporary entertainment landscape.

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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Brad Pitt: Full Throttle in F1

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Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt is set to rev up the silver screen in his latest high-octane adventure, “Brad Pitt: Full Throttle in F1.” This eagerly anticipated film promises to deliver a perfect blend of star power and the exhilarating world of Formula 1 racing.

A Star-Studded Ride

Pitt, known for his versatility and charisma, takes on the role of a seasoned F1 driver making a daring comeback to the sport. The actor, now in his early 60s, has reportedly undergone rigorous training to convincingly portray a professional racing driver. His dedication to the role has already generated buzz among both film enthusiasts and F1 fans alike.

Behind the Wheel

The movie, directed by Joseph Kosinski of “Top Gun: Maverick” fame, aims to capture the intense, high-speed world of F1 with unprecedented authenticity. Kosinski’s expertise in action sequences and cutting-edge visual effects promises to deliver a visceral racing experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

More Than Just Racing

While the film showcases the thrilling aspects of F1, it also delves into the personal struggles and triumphs of Pitt’s character. The story explores themes of redemption, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of passion, adding depth to the high-speed narrative.

Star-Studded Cast and Crew

Joining Pitt is a talented ensemble cast, including Damson Idris as a promising young driver and Kerry Condon in a key supporting role. The film also boasts the involvement of legendary F1 driver Lewis Hamilton as a producer, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the sport.

Racing to Theaters

“Brad Pitt: Full Throttle in F1″ is slated for a worldwide release in the summer of 2025. With its combination of star power, intense racing action, and compelling storytelling, the film is poised to be a major contender in both the box office and the upcoming awards season.

As the release date approaches, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an unforgettable cinematic experience that will take audiences from the pit lane to the podium in the fast-paced world of Formula 1.

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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Fun Size Cinema Showcases Chicago’s Comedic Talent

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Chicago, known for its rich comedy heritage, is set to celebrate its local comedic talent with the launch of Fun Size Cinema, a new screening series dedicated to showcasing short films, sketches, and other digital comedic works. The event, spearheaded by filmmaker Joelle Velez and her production company Sparkly Productions, will debut on Thursday, March 20th at 6 PM at The Revival theater in Chicago’s South Loop.

Sock it To Me- Short Film directed by Joelle Velez

A Platform for Local Comedy

Fun Size Cinema is designed as a platform for Chicago’s comedians, filmmakers, and improvisers to share their creative work with a broader audience. The series highlights the city’s comedic spirit through curated screenings of diverse content, including short films, sketch comedy, music videos, and comedic documentaries. By fostering connections and collaboration among local creatives, the event aims to build a supportive community for comedy and filmmaking in Chicago.

Joelle Velez explained her inspiration for the series during an interview with WGN News: “Chicago has such a strong comedy legacy—think Harold Ramis and Ghostbusters. We wanted to create a space where local talent could thrive without needing to move to New York or Los Angeles.” She emphasized that Fun Size Cinema offers filmmakers and performers the opportunity to showcase their work while staying rooted in Chicago’s vibrant artistic ecosystem.

Joelle Velez: A Driving Force Behind the Initiative

Joelle Velez, an award-winning filmmaker and graduate of The Second City Film School, brings her extensive experience in comedy and filmmaking to this project. Her production company Sparkly Productions partnered with The Revival theater to bring this vision to life. Velez’s own film Sock It To Me, which has garnered awards like Best Art Comedy at the Katra Film Series Comedy Film Festival, will be featured at the inaugural screening.

Velez’s career reflects her commitment to storytelling and comedy. Her previous works have been selected for over 20 film festivals worldwide, earning multiple awards. With training in improvisation, stand-up comedy, and acting, she is well-equipped to lead this initiative that celebrates Chicago’s comedic talent.

What Audiences Can Expect

The debut screening of Fun Size Cinema will feature nine short films from local creators. Unlike traditional film festivals that often prioritize dramatic or experimental works, this series focuses entirely on comedy—providing a unique space for sketch comedy and other humorous formats that are often overlooked.

Attendees can expect a movie-going experience filled with laughter and creativity. Whether you’re a filmmaker looking to network or simply a comedy enthusiast, Fun Size Cinema promises an evening of entertainment that highlights the exceptional talent within Chicago’s comedy scene.

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Sock it To Me- Short Film directed by Joelle Velez

Continuing Chicago’s Comedy Legacy

By creating opportunities for local comedians and filmmakers to showcase their work, Fun Size Cinema aims to continue Chicago’s legacy as a hub for groundbreaking comedy. As Velez stated during her interview: “There’s so much amazing stuff being made here that people don’t always get the chance to see. We want to create that stage for them.” This initiative not only celebrates Chicago’s comedic roots but also paves the way for future stars in the industry3.

For those interested in attending or learning more about Fun Size Cinema, visit The Revival theater on March 20th at 906 S. Wabash Avenue. Prepare for an evening of laughter, creativity, and community as Chicago’s comedic talent takes center stage.

Bolanle Media covers a wide range of topics, including film, technology, and culture. Our team creates easy-to-understand articles and news pieces that keep readers informed about the latest trends and events. If you’re looking for press coverage or want to share your story with a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us today to discuss how we can help bring your news to life

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