How Did Casper The Friendly Ghost Die?

Casper the Friendly Ghost made his theatrical debut in I. Sparber's 1945 short "The Friendly Ghost," released by Famous Studios. The gimmick of the short was that a boy-like apparition named Casper, feeling lonely and wanting friends, would causally approach animals and adults to introduce himself only to see them flee in terror. He is, after all, a ghost. Only open-minded children could see that Casper wasn't a threat and befriend him. 

The success of "The Friendly Ghost" led to 54 additional Famous Studios Casper shorts that lasted through 1959. Casper also began starring in a series of Harvey Comics in 1951, and the character's mythos expanded greatly. He soon became friends with a witch named Wendy and was bullied by some baddies called the Ghostly Trio. The comics and shorts also spawned multiple TV shows to feature the Friendly Ghost, mostly in the 1960s and 1970s, and his popularity was retained throughout the 1980s through incessant reruns. In 1995, Steven Spielberg's Amblin Entertainment released a big-budget, high-profile, live-action "Casper" movie, directed by Brad Silberling, which realized the Friendly Ghost in CGI. The $55 million film earned an impressive $288 million at the box office and left a deep mark on kids who saw it. 

The 1995 "Casper" movie was the first time Casper's ghostliness was addressed directly. Casper, after all, had to die to become a Friendly Ghost, and audiences finally had to note that this was actually the story of Casper the Little Dead Boy. In a brief moment at the end of the film, Casper is resurrected, played by actor Devon Sawa. 

This begs the very practical question: how did Casper die? What tragedy befell the young Casper McFadden that he was killed and left on the Earthly plane as a spirit? 

What was the sad fate of Casper the Little Dead Boy?

In Silberling's film, a young girl named Kat (Christina Ricci) and her psychologist father Dr. Harvey (Bill Pullman) move into the haunted house where Casper (Malachi Pearson) and the Ghostly Trio (Brad Garrett, Joe Alaskey, and Joe Nipote) hang out. Throughout the film, Kat becomes friends with Casper, and the Ghostly Trio plays a prank on Dr. Harvey ... by telling him they have access to his dead wife. Casper eventually reveals that he caught pneumonia and died after playing in the snow. 

Casper returned as a ghost, however, and began to haunt his own father, a mad scientist named J.T. McFadden. Dr. McFadden invented a machine to transform his ghostly son back into a mortal being after being tormented by visions of his dead son's spirit. McFadden would have used his Lazarus machine, but he was declared insane and committed to an asylum before he had a chance. Because Casper is a ghost, he can't remember all the details of his life. 

And the story bears a note of tragedy beyond Casper's mere death. It seems the reason Casper was out in the cold catching pneumonia is because his father bought him a brand-new sled, and Casper loved it so much, that he rode it all day and into the night. His father was indirectly responsible for his son's illness.

The 1995 film was the first time Casper's death was explicitly mentioned. In previous Harvey Comics, Casper was never alive, having been born to a ghost mother and a ghost father. The fact that ghosts can breed is a theological can of worms we're not going to open here. The 1995 film was also the first time Casper the Little Dead Boy was given a last name. Up until then, Casper was just known as The Friendly Ghost. 

Other theories about Casper's death

Prior to 1995, there were theories — openly perpetuated by "The Simpsons" creator Matt Groening — that Casper was actually the ghost of Richie Rich, another character published by Harvey Comics. When one looks at drawings of Casper and Richie side-by-side, one will note that they have similar head and body proportions, as well as the same large eyes. Both Casper and Richie also live in enormous mansions. Groening felt that Richie Rich died as a child, and his spirit remained in his mansion in perpetuity. "Perhaps he realized how hollow the pursuit of money really is and took his own life," Lisa Simpson once posited. Because ghosts have faulty memories, Richie started going by the name Casper.

Some have taken the Casper/Richie story one step further by suggesting that Richie Rich's parents fell upon hard times and had to murder their child for the insurance money. Casper, in that case, would have returned from the grave as a vengeful spirit. 

Of course, Casper and Richie Rich did occasionally meet one another in cross-over comics from Harvey, so that theory doesn't hold a lot of water (or ectoplasm, as the case may be). It also doesn't jive with the 1959 short "Casper's Birthday Party" wherein audiences met Casper's ghostly parents. Either Casper and his family all died together (which is possible), or Casper lives in a universe of mating ghosts (also possible, though disturbing to ponder). Or perhaps Casper revenge-killed them, and all three lost their memories of the murder and began living together again in ghostly familial bliss (definitely also possible).

Chrysalis (Kamdaki Kiz) Seisoen 3-Einde Verduidelik

In die TV-finale van *Chrysalis* (Kamdaki Kiz) is Sedat en Nalan se werklike hertroue nie op die skerm gewys nie, omdat die produksie gekies het vir ’n tydsprong-gevolgtrekking wat gefokus het op hulle versoening eerder as ’n volledige trouvolgorde.

Die besluit om ’n “gedwonge gelukkige einde” vir die televisiereeks te gee, is swaar gekritiseer deur kykers en kritici, hoofsaaklik omdat dit aansienlik afgewyk het van die oorspronklike boek se einde.

Belangrikste redes vir die hantering van die finale sluit in:

• Afwyking van die bronmateriaal: In die werklike lewensverhaal en die roman kom Nalan en Sedat nooit weer bymekaar nie. Nalan se ware lewensmaat ná haar egskeiding is Hayri, saam met wie sy sewe jaar lank gewoon het.

• Tematiese verskuiwing: Die TV-reeks het gekies om Sedat te verlos – deur te wys hoe hy sy lewe verander ná sy ma se dood – en het afgesluit met hom wat Nalan weer op haar verjaardag vra om te trou.

• Tempo en tydspronge: In plaas daarvan om skermtyd aan ’n tweede troue te wy, het die finale episode ’n eenjaar-tydsprong gebruik om die paartjie reeds herenig en gelukkig te wys, wat deur sommige kykers as “afsnyp” van die troutoneel beskou is.

Laat my weet as jy enige aanpassings of ’n meer formele/informele weergawe wil hê!

The Trials And Errors Of WWE's Wrestler's Court

The Miz: "FORCED TO BUY BEER FOR THE VETERANS FOR SIX MONTHS"

Around 2006, as a rookie with no wrestling background, Miz spilled fried chicken crumbs on Chris Benoit's gear bag (disrespecting "unwritten rules"). Benoit and others blew it up; Miz was banned from the locker room for six months and had to change in hallways, bathrooms, or janitor closets. He later called it "tough love" that taught respect. Some versions mention buying chicken/beer as common punishments, and the graphic may have blended that in, but the core incident (and the six-month penalty) is well-documented by Miz himself and others. 

The Undertaker: "SENTENCED A WRESTLER TO WASH THE APA'S RENTAL CAR"

'Taker was the main judge and (with the APA—JBL and Faarooq) enforced court. They often sentenced people to menial chores like washing cars, buying gas, or running errands as "payback." 

Melina: "FOUND GUILTY OF HAVING A 'DIVA ATTITUDE' BY THE LOCKER ROOM"

Melina was taken to court for her backstage attitude issues (clashes with Lita, Sharmell, Candice Michelle, etc.—she wasn't seen as a team player). Wrestlers bet on how long until she cried; it was described as intense and emotionally taxing. Undertaker judged some Divas cases. She later recalled the whole system feeling insane and uncomfortable. The "diva attitude" charge was a common one for her. 

Matt Hardy: "HAD TO CARRY EVERYONE'S BAGS AFTER A DISPUTE WITH KANE"

The Hardy Boyz (Matt and Jeff) were hauled in after accidentally taking Kane's first-class plane seats on a European tour, bumping him to coach. JBL (prosecutor) exaggerated the case; punishment involved buying Kane dinner and carrying his (or everyone's) bags for a week. Matt has retold it on his podcast as a wild but ultimately okay rib. 

JBL: "SERVED AS THE PROSECUTOR FOR ALMOST EVERY ROOKIE CASE"

Bradshaw (JBL) was the go-to prosecutor—he'd scream accusations, exaggerate for effect, and push harsh penalties. He was involved in nearly every notable rookie trial (Hardys, Spirit Squad, etc.). Veterans saw him as the enforcer of respect. 

Chris Benoit: "INFAMOUSLY HARSH DURING THE SENTENCING OF YOUNGER TALENT"

Benoit was strict and intense—he yelled at Miz during the chicken incident, screamed at Matt Striker in a bar to make an example, and flagged other infractions (e.g., Daivari). His no-nonsense personality made him feared in court. His bag was central to the Miz story. 

Triple H: "ESCAPED TRIAL SEVERAL TIMES DUE TO HIS STATUS WITH MANAGEMENT"

As Stephanie McMahon's husband and a top guy with management ties, Triple H was largely untouchable. He sometimes subbed as judge (e.g., in the Divas dodgeball case) but avoided being on trial himself. Others (like Brock Lesnar) also dodged summons due to status. 

The Curse Of The Glee Cast

Naya Rivera (played Santana Lopez)

In July 2020, Rivera (33) went boating with her then-4-year-old son at Lake Piru, California. She drowned after apparently saving her son by boosting him back onto the boat (he was found alone wearing a life jacket and asleep). Her body was recovered days later. The Ventura County Medical Examiner ruled it an accidental drowning due to the boat drifting away while she was in the water. No drugs or alcohol were involved, and it was widely seen as a heroic act to protect her child. She had spoken openly about mental health and motherhood in the years prior.

Cory Monteith (played Finn Hudson)

In July 2013, Monteith (31) was found dead in his room at the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel in Vancouver, Canada. The cause was a toxic combination of heroin and alcohol (accidental overdose). He had a long history of substance use disorder, had been to rehab multiple times (including shortly before his death), and had been open about his struggles. His death shocked fans and the cast, as he was a central figure on the show. Lea Michele (his real-life partner at the time) later spoke about the profound grief.

Mark Salling (played Noah "Puck" Puckerman)

In January 2018, Salling (35) died by suicide (hanged himself) near a Los Angeles river. This came after his 2015 arrest and 2017 guilty plea to possession of child pornography (he had thousands of explicit images of minors). He was awaiting sentencing (up to 7 years in prison) and had registered as a sex offender. His death was ruled a suicide, and it followed years of legal battles. Many cast members distanced themselves due to the nature of the crimes.

Becca Tobin's boyfriend (Matt Bendik, partner of Becca Tobin who played Kitty Wilde)

In July 2014, Bendik (35, a nightclub owner) was found dead in a hotel room in Philadelphia (face down in bed, discovered by hotel staff). Tobin was on tour with Glee at the time. An initial autopsy showed no obvious trauma or foul play, but the exact cause remained undetermined publicly after toxicology/autopsy (some reports noted it was sudden/natural, possibly cardiac or similar, though details were limited). It happened almost exactly one year after Monteith's death, which fueled speculation at the time. Tobin later spoke about the profound loss and grief.

Nancy Motes (Glee production assistant; half-sister of Julia Roberts)

In February 2014 (age 37), Motes was found dead in her Los Angeles home (on the bathroom floor with prescription drugs nearby). It was ruled a suicide by apparent drug overdose (some reports specify mixed prescription drugs). A suicide note reportedly expressed deep resentment toward her family (including Roberts and other siblings), blaming them for contributing to her depression and struggles. She had worked as a production assistant on Glee and had a strained family history. Roberts later spoke publicly about the tragedy, expressing sorrow.

Jim Fuller (assistant director on Glee)

In September 2013 (age 41), Fuller died in his sleep from a heart attack (natural causes/heart failure). He had a long career in TV (worked on shows like Monk, Weeds, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and Glee). His obituary noted he passed peacefully at home, survived by family. This was one of several crew health-related deaths mentioned in The Price of Glee, where some crew referenced a pattern of sudden losses (though attributed to stress, age, or coincidence rather than a curse).

Blake Jenner (played Ryder Lynn)

In 2020, his ex-wife (and former co-star) Melissa Benoist publicly detailed experiencing domestic abuse during their marriage (2015–2019), including physical incidents. Jenner later issued a statement acknowledging responsibility, expressing regret, and committing to personal growth (he said he had sought therapy). No criminal charges were filed publicly, but it became a major point in discussions of toxicity behind the scenes. Benoist has since spoken about healing from the experience.

Overall, while the tragedies are real and devastating (especially the cluster of deaths in 2013–2014 and later), most experts, cast members, and journalists attribute them to individual circumstances—like addiction, mental health struggles, health issues, or unrelated crimes—rather than a literal "curse." Fame's pressures, long work hours, and personal demons played roles for many. The 2023 docuseries amplified the "curse" talk but drew backlash for potentially exploiting grief. It's a sad legacy for such a joyful show.

11 Actors That Were Only Cast In The Friends TV Show

As Mark Darcy from Bridget Jones would say, you like Friends just the way it is. Despite some of the inconsistencies, plot holes and storylines that keep you up at night, it’s perfect just as it is – and you’d be horrified to see anything change.

But it wasn’t always meant to be the way it turned out: actually, at the very beginning, Friends creators David Crane and Marta Kauffman wanted to cast different actors as Ross Geller, Rachel Green, Monica Geller, Chandler Bing, Phoebe Buffay and Joey Tribbiani. Here’s the most famous 11.

1. Eric McCormack – Ross Geller

Before he hit the big time in Will & Grace, Eric McCormack auditioned to play Ross Geller – but later revealed he thought the part was written with David Schwimmer in mind.

“I needed to start pulling at this other sort of funnier, lighter side. So I auditioned for everything,” he told Huff Post. “I auditioned for Friends even. I auditioned for Schwimmer’s part.

“Years later, I told Jimmy Burrows, who directed all of Will & Grace and Friends too [that] I was up for Schwimmer’s part. He said, ‘Oh, honey, you’re wasting your time. They wrote the part for him.’”

2. Nancy McKeon – Monica Geller

“Nancy McKeon also read for Courteney’s part. She gave a terrific performance,” Lori Openden, head of casting for NBC at the time, said. “Warren [Littlefield, the then NBC president] let Marta [Kauffman] and David [Crane] make the call. They went off for a walk and came back and said Courteney.”

3. Jane Krakowski – Rachel Green

Before starring in Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Jane auditioned for the role of Rachel – and joked in an interview with Giuliana Rancic on the 2015 Emmys red carpet that her “business manager is very sad” she didn’t get a call back.

She revealed, “Well, I, like almost every actor in the world, auditioned for Friends. I wish I had gotten that one. I actually auditioned for Rachel, and I didn’t go very far.”

4. Jon Cryer – Chandler Bing

Two and a Half Men‘s Jon Cryer explained on The Late Late Show With James Corden, ‘I was working in the UK and got a call from [Friends executive producer] Marta Kauffman, and she had a script called ‘Six of One’.

“She said, ‘the part I want you for is named Chandler Bing. I had to audition the next morning with the casting director who was in the UK. So I went in, I did my best… she packaged up the tape of me doing my best Chandler Bing, sent it to LA, and it got stuck at customs.”

5. Vince Vaughn – Joey Tribbiani

Friends casting director Ellie Kanner told Huffington Post that when Vince Vaughn auditioned to play Joey, though he was “handsome and tall” and a “good actor”, he just didn’t fit the part as well as Matt Le Blanc did.

“It’s just a matter of putting the pieces of the puzzle together”, she added. “That would have been a little different”.

6. Hank Azaria – Joey Tribbiani

Er, so this one isn’t so much as a nearly played him, but rather really wanted to.

“That’s the only job I ever auditioned for twice,” Azaria told HuffPost Live in 2014. “I thought it was so good — they had rejected me once — I said, ‘I’m going back, I’m gonna do it again, I’m gonna try it again’.”

Still, he got a cameo as Phoebe’s Science Guy, so all’s well that end’s well. Sort of.

7. Janeane Garofalo – Monica Geller

You might not believe it, but Friends creator David Crane revealed he initially wrote the role of Monica with Reality Bites‘ Janeane Garofalo in mind – it was only when Courtney Cox nailed the audition that they changed the character a bit.

“When we originally wrote the role, we had Janeane Garofalo’s voice in our head”, he told Vanity Fair. “Darker and edgier and snarkier, and Courteney brought a whole bunch of other colours to it. We decided that, week after week, that would be a lovelier place to go to.”

8. Craig Bierko – Chandler Bing

In the same Vanity Fair interview, Warren Littlefield, the former president of NBC Entertainment, explained that because Matthew Perry was initially tied into a pilot for Fox, he couldn’t commit to the role of Chandler – so he trained actor Craig Bierko up for the role instead.

“There was something Snidely Whiplash about Craig Bierko. He seemed to have a lot of anger underneath, more of a guy you love to hate. The attractive leading man who you love and can do comedy is very rare.”

9. Courtney Cox – Rachel Green

Yep, the casting directors actually wanted Courtney to play Rachel, not Monica – but it was only when she auditioned as Monica and “brought a whole bunch of other colours to the role”, that she got it.

“We originally offered Rachel to Courteney Cox,” says creator Kauffman, “but she said she wanted to do Monica, not Rachel”.

10. Leah Remini – Monica

The King Of Queens actress made it through the studio audition and to the network, where it was narrowed down to her and one other actress (side note – maybe Nancy McKeon?! See point one). But instead of picking, the casing directors asked them both to leave because they had someone else to see. 

“We walked out of the building and into the completely empty parking lot,” she wrote in her biography. “We chatted on the way to our cars, wishing each other the best, and then we saw Courteney Cox walking toward us, then past us and right into the building. Motherf*cker! We both knew it right away: she had the part of Monica.”

She does feature in ‘The One With the Birth’, though.

11. Kathy Griffin – Phoebe

Kathy Griffin revealed during a chat with Huff Post Live that both she and Jane Lynch (who went on to play Sue Sylvester in Glee) auditioned to be Phoebe.

Speaking about their friendship, she commented, “I’ve known Jane since we were both auditioning — I think we were auditioning for Phoebe on Friends like all my other girlfriends did…”

Article originally published by Cosmopolitan 

Malcolm & Eddie | Pilot | Season 1 Episode 1 | UPN

An aspiring radio sports announcer, Malcolm, and his talkative, would-be tow truck driver roommate, Eddie, attend a get-rich-quick seminar in hopes of winning a much-needed TV.

Remembering Eddie Guerrero

Eddie Guerrero's wrestling career spanned three decades, from his time wrestling in Mexico, to his cruiserweight days in WCW, and finally, to his time at the top as both a babyface and heel in WWE. Eddie won several singles and tag team titles over the years, and although he only held the WWE Championship once, the moment is one of the most celebrated among wrestling fans. If he had lived, Guerrero certainly would have gone on to win more titles, but in death, he is frozen in time, a man at the peak who never came down but instead kept moving upward toward the heavens.

Eddie Guerrero's In-Ring Wrestling History

• Eddie competed in promotions like EMLL, NJPW, AAA, and ECW.

• In 1995, Eddie Guerrero signed with WCW and became a popular cruiserweight.

• Guerrero joined WWE in 1999 as part of the Radicalz.

Eddie Guerrero began his wrestling career in 1986, mostly finding work in smaller Mexican promotions like EMLL. It also would be quite early in his career that he started to work a few matches for World Championship Wrestling, the promotion he would call home for years. In the meantime, Guerrero became a master in the ring by working with names like Koji Kanemoto, Mil Mascaras, and members of the Guerrero family.

He had a pretty strong run in New Japan Pro-Wrestling before joining AAA in 1992, the promotion where he would first work with close friends Rey Mysterio and Art Barr. Barr would be integral to Eddie's career as the two became a successful tag team in AAA, going by the name La Pareja del Terror (The Pair of Terror). The two would capture the AAA World Tag Team Championships from Octagon & El Hijo del Santo in 1994.

After working with NJPW and AAA for a couple of years, Eddie ventured to the United States and quickly found his first singles championship in the small Philly-based promotion, ECW. Guerrero captured the ECW World Television Championship in his first match for the company and would capture it again before parting ways after a handful of matches. After he blew up in ECW, it was finally time to settle in a promotion long term, that being World Championship Wrestling in 1995.

Guerrero became an asset of the WCW Cruiserweight division, holding the belt on two occasions, and even found himself holding the WCW United States Heavyweight Championship at one point, but wouldn't make it to the main event. Sticking with WCW until 1999, Guerrero jumped ship to the WWF alongside a few friends who made up The Radicalz, and Guerrero would break out on his whole in a quick fashion. In his first year with the promotion, Eddie would become a two-time European and one-time Intercontinental Champion.

Eddie Guerrero Had a Successful Run in WWE

• Drug abuse issues caused WWE to release Eddie Guerrero.

• Eddie Guerrero beat Brock Lesnar to become WWE Champion.

• Eddie's last match was on SmackDown versus Mr. Kennedy.

The success wouldn't last and Eddie would be let go from the WWE due to personal issues with drug abuse getting in the way of his career. From late 2001 to early 2002, Eddie started to work on smaller independent wrestling shows such as PCW, IWA Mid-South, and Ring of Honor, while also making a tour in New Japan once again. Luckily for him, 2002 seemed to take a turn in his career as he was let back into the WWE and would quickly become a part of what is known as the SmackDown Six.

This second run in the WWE saw Eddie capture numerous titles, such as another run with the Intercontinental belt, four tenures as a WWE Tag Team Champion, the inaugural WWE United States Champion, and most importantly, a stint as the WWE Champion. That would be the first and only time that Eddie was the top champion of any promotion he worked with.

These last few years of his life would give wrestling fans some of his best work, as Eddie stepped his game up when wrestling legends like Kurt Angle, Rey Mysterio, Batista, Edge, and so many others. His final match would be against Mr. Kennedy on the November 8th, 2005 episode of SmackDown, in which Eddie won a Survivor Series qualifying match, granting him a spot on Team SmackDown for the event taking place November 27th.

Eddie Guerrero Passed Away Unexpectedly in 2005

• Eddie Guerrero died in a hotel room in Minnespolis.

• Chavor Guerrero was the one who found Eddie after he passed away.

• Rey Mysterio's World Championship chase was a tribute to Guerrero.

Chavo Guerrero has spoken about what happened next many times, including in an episode of Dark Side of the Ring about the Chris Benoit tragedy. WWE was in Minneapolis, and on Sunday, November 13, 2005, after Eddie Guerrero failed to answer a hotel wake-up call, Chavo went with security to his room. It was there that he found his cousin on the bathroom floor, unconscious and barely breathing. Eddie died in Chavo's arms at the age of 38.

Raw the next night became a tribute show. It's most remembered now for those heartbreaking images of Eddie's best friend, Chris Benoit, bawling on the stage and in a video package. SmackDown was a tribute to Eddie Guerrero as well. Any plans that involved Eddie had to quickly be re-written, including his spot on Team SmackDown for Survivor Series, which saw Randy Orton sub in as a replacement.

Even though he was gone, he lived on, as his close friendship with Rey Mysterio carried Rey to winning the 2006 Royal Rumble, which was followed by a World Championship win at WrestleMania 22. Guerrero even continued as part of storylines, including a very controversial one between Rey and Batista, where a newly heel Batista told the babyface Rey that Eddie was in Hell.

Autopsy results for Eddie Guerrero revealed that he died of acute heart failure, brought on by atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease from his past steroid use. In February 2006, WWE's Wellness Policy took effect, with many substances, including steroids, now banned. The death of such a beloved star in the prime of his life was the last straw in the heartbreaking wrestling world where so many wrestlers died before their time.

Chavo Doesn't Love the Constant Eddie Guerrero Tributes

• Chavo thinks some wrestlers use Eddie Guerrero's name only for their benefit.

• Chavo accused Rey Mysterio of latching onto Eddie Guerrero's name.

• Chavo Guerrero wasn't a fan of Sasha Banks wearing Eddie Guerrero-inspired gear at WrestleMania 32.

Eddie Guerrero is still very popular in the wrestling community, but his own nephew isn't a fan of how often he is latched onto. A while back, Chavo Guerrero was taking part in "Captain's Corner" and was asked about Rey Mysterio doing tributes to Eddie on television. He said:

"This is not a bitter thing, this is the truth. We worked hard for that last name. This whole family worked really, really hard to get that name to where it was and we’re tired of people prostituting it in a sense and using it for their benefit. So Rey Mysterio, I’m sorry that no one knows who Rey Mysterio Sr. is, Rey Mysterio Jr. No one knows who he is and I’m sorry that you have to latch on to the Guerrero family and we’re just kind of tired of it so, thank you for keeping Eddie’s name alive, thank you for keeping the Guerrero name alive but we don’t need you, we’re good, you know what I’m saying?” (h/t New York Post)

Chavo later backtracked on this statement, saying that he was playing the role of his old heel character and has nothing but love for Rey. This wouldn't be the first time that Chavo took issue with someone paying homage to Eddie. Back at WrestleMania 32 when Sasha Banks wore gear similar to Eddie Guerrero, Chavo replied to a fan's tweet with a thumbs down in response to his opinion on the look.

Eddie Guerrero's Name Lives On Today

• Eddie Guerrero is still popular in wrestling.

• WWE made a joke out of Dominik Mysterio being Eddie's son.

• The LWO faction was reborn on SmackDown.

Eddie Guerrero has been gone for almost two decades, but he is still immensely popular, unlike any other passed-on superstar. If a wrestler does the Three Amigos or a frog splash, it's certain to draw "Eddie! Eddie! Eddie!" chants from the crowd. Eddie's widow, Vickie Guerrero, worked in WWE for years (and later AEW) as a manager and GM, becoming one of the greatest heels in the business. Rhea Ripley's "Mami" nickname is a wink to Eddie Guerrero's "I'm your Papi" gimmick.

Rey and Dominik Mysterio's feud partially involved Dominik wishing Eddie was his real dad. There was also been the rebirth of the LWO in WWE on SmackDown, which Eddie founded in WCW. Eddie would have one child follow in his footsteps in that ring, Shaul Guerrero, also known as Raquel Diaz, who had a stint in WWE's NXT brand.

Looking at names from outside Eddie's family and friends showcases how far his influence can reach. Several stars, such as CM Punk, Mercedes Mone, Peyton Royce, and Seth Rollins have named Guerrero a major influence on their style and decision to start wrestling. Many peers have praised Eddie's ability, such as Kurt Angle calling him the second-greatest professional wrestler of all time (behind Shawn Michaels), Chris Jericho saying Guerrero was the best performer in the world, or Ric Flair citing him as one of his top ten opponents ever. The phrase "gone but not forgotten" is used often, but in Eddie Guerrero's case, it is so true.

Years after his passing, fans still remember him, both for his in-ring talent and his charismatic ability to connect with fans in a way few others can, whether it be as a vile heel or a babyface jumping into the stands to celebrate his newly won title with the fans who had always supported him.

The article was published by TheSportster

'Phineas And Ferb' Co-Creators Reveal They Originally Pitched Series To Nickelodeon And Cartoon Network

Dan Povenmire, along with his friend and colleague Jeff “Swampy” Marsh, created Phineas and Ferb back in 1993. A mere 15 years later it was picked up by the Disney Channel and has fast become one of their most popular shows, picked up bucket loads of awards, and been seen by an estimated 289 million people worldwide. As a result, it isn’t a surprise that the series is being revived for a bunch of new episodes that fans will finally get to watch this summer to relive the original’s magic.

However, things might have been almost entirely different, as the series was initially pitched to Nickelodeon, who turned it down whilst it was in development. In an interview, Povenmire and Marsh confirmed they had pitched the series to Nickelodeon, who rejected it before Disney picked it up. Here is what the creators had to say about Nickelodeon rejecting Phineas and Ferb.

The series follows step-brothers Phineas and Ferb, who embark on various adventures during their summer vacation, while trying to keep their sister from interfering with their plans. Meanwhile, their pet platypus, Perry the Platypus, plots against evil Dr. Doofenshmirtz.

Phineas and Ferb started life as a simple doodle Dan Povenmire made during a visit to a restaurant. Povenmire fleshed it out into a concept for a full series with the help of Jeff “Swampy” Marsh. However, the duo’s early attempts to pitch the series to different networks, including Nickelodeon failed.

In an interview with Animation World Network, Povenmire admitted that the series was turned down by two of the biggest children’s networks at the time, saying "I’ve got a pitch over at Cartoon Network. I’ll dust it back off and pitch it to them; if they say no, I’ll dust it off and pitch it to Nickelodeon." However, that did not discourage the duo from sticking to their original idea.

Povenmire explained that one of the main reasons he and Marsh did not give up on the idea was because it was a concept they had the most faith in, having originally conceived it during their time on the hit animated series The Simpsons, as a means to allow themselves to work together as writers.

In a separate interview, Povenmire explained the primary issues Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network had with the series, resulting in them turning it down. The co-creator revealed that most networks felt the series’ multiple ongoing storylines in a single episode were seen as too complex for younger viewers.

"We pitched it everywhere, absolutely everywhere you could possibly pitch it and a few extra places beyond that. It always got a good response, everybody like it," Povenmire said to Skwigly, admitting that while networks had a positive reaction to their pitch, they found it slightly complicated.

Furthermore, the co-creator revealed that their pitch being rejected for several years benefitted them as it allowed the duo to evolve and mature over time. As a result, their focus changed after having their own children. Therefore, the duo tweaked their original pitch to make it more suitable for kids, which resulted in the final version impressing audiences across the globe.

Afrikaans Voice Actors For Landman [Video]

A Look Into The Life Of Former Child Star Tara Tara Correa-McMullen

Tara Correa-McMullen was born on May 24, 1989, in Westminster in Windham County, Vermont, to Thomas Raymond McMullen and Mary Devra Correa née Brown.

While growing up, Correa-McMullen became interested in acting, dance, and music. When she was just 4 years old, she showcased a penchant for playing the piano.

Ten years later, Tara was cast in a recurring small-screen role on Judging Amy. In the beloved series, which starred Amy Brenneman, Tara portrayed Maritaz Cruz, a former gang member who over a series of episodes season is encouraged by Amy to change her ways. But sadly, by the season's close, Cruz is killed in prison.

In real life, on October 21, 2005, Correa-McMullen was with her friends in front of an apartment complex in Inglewood, CA when she was shot and killed.

Law enforcement described her as the innocent victim of a gang-related shooting.

In the End

Like too many former child stars, before, during, or after her lifetime, Tara Correa-McMullen met a tragic end, leaving this world much too soon, and long before her time.

Lost Footage Of Aaliyah's Role In The Matrix (RIP)

 

How Netflix's Potential Acquisition Of Warner Bros. Discovery Affects M-Net, DStv And Showmax?

Not long ago, it was reported that Netflix won the bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery valuing the deal at $72 billion. This deal would DC Entertainment/Studios, Cartoon Network Studios, HBO, Warner Bros. Pictures/Television and New Line Cinema.

Below is a how this deal is bad news for MultiChoice

M-Net and Showmax

MultiChoice had been licensing Game Of Thrones and Penguins from HBO to M-Net and Showmax. In the event of an acquisition, Netflix had expressed interest to continue these partnerships with local broadcasters but it may not be easy.

If MultiChoice continues to license content from Warner Bros. they could as well look to increase the rates. This is something MultiChoice's new owners Canal+ may not find amusing as they've begun cost cutting due to DStv's shrinking consumer base.

Besides that, the previous owners at MultiChoice had been anti-Netflix for sometime so the general audience had sort of painted a certain image of the company. While free-to-air broadcasters such as SABC and eMedia Investments had been licensing from the streamer.

MultiChoice put up a wall between them and Netflix again this was the previous owners regime as Canal+ does view them as partners. They do have an agreement to bundle their services in francophone markets alongside a content deal through K+.

The reality is while Warner Bros. continues to license content to M-Net and Showmax, Netflix will likely make further productions exclusive to their services. If they do continue licensing, I doubt MultiChoice would want their scraps.

Netflix is already available in the market which further complicates things as M-Net and Showmax are meant to go hand in hand with their content. But then again, MultiChoice is part of StudioCanal's parent company which gives them leverage.

Netflix may offer Stranger Things, Squid Games and Wednesday but with Canal+'s MultiChoice there's Paris Has Fallen, Spinners and iShaka iLembe.

DStv

For this part, I feel there's a lot of exaggeration as Netflix is not acquiring Discovery, TLC or the linear Cartoon Network as that is being spun off into a separate company. Of course, Netflix's bid to be frank sort of dilutes the value of Cartoon Network.

Cartoon Network under Discovery Global will be leaning more toward third party programming such as Lego Ninjago, Dragonball Super and Totally Spies!. While what made Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon and Disney "The Big 3" like Regular Show and Tiny Toons Looniversity goes to Netflix.

It's likely that they will be a licensing agreement for these shows but they'll most definitely be like DreamWorks Channel - reruns. Under a separate company, they're not going to prioritise on these Netflix originals.

If it is deemed expensive these shows could as well get phased out and again that just dilutes Cartoon Network who had been reliant on these IPs.

Turning over the torch to Discovery Global, this is the company that MultiChoice is involved in a carriage dispute with over the future of its 12 channels. These include Discovery Channel, HGTV, TLC and as mentioned the linear Cartoon Network.

Of course, the matter of concern here to me is that as mentioned with Cartoon Network while the Netflix deal makes the company more leaner. There's still another 20 billion worth of debt they need to clean out.

Expecting for content to be reduced, potential sales or closures to operations or channels and lastly massive layoffs particularly for international feeds.

All of this might as well unfold while these channels are no longer on DStv but then again it's likely that MultiChoice could opt to keep a few channels. My guess would be Discovery Channel, TLC, Cartoon Network, Real Time, Cartoonito, ID and CNN.

How To Add A Clickable Image Banner To Your Blogger Website?

Ever wanted a banner that fits the layout of your website be it on a laptop or android smartphone well you can thank me later as I've got the perfect widget for this occasion.

Step 1: Go to Blogger's layout section and click Add Gadgets 

Step 2: You will have to choose HTML/JavaScript and copy the code provided below

<div style="text-align: center;">

  <a href="https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/p/posts-you-might-like.html?m=1">

    <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi52nPaphdgFKT0v84OY3OHqF_GZOFI0x1LhDRUg9q_hBpaamr0cQVwAViHms_INuj_eAUXiRLEl0GZlXHTHDhELzZptnPQjLrCuJvcfNxyz-s4Gj07_h1Nm-3X6_rvFe6dE-HWfUauPlEmJJOzbNVnkRuKHQC0tdu6ysWoViWIm_qR4sIdyt4E2_luAGk/s470/IMG_20250718_220318.jpg" alt="Banner Description" class="clickable-banner" style="max-width: 100%; height: auto;" />

  </a>

</div>

Notes

• By <a href> replace the link with the page or site of your choosing

• For <img src> I needed to go to Blogger's posts to get the image link which would require you to upload the image and you'll find a button similar to this one "< >" click it and select html view. Within there select the href that link would make up img src or the component that helps display images.

How To Add A Custom Content Banner Widget To Your Blogger Website?

Ever wanted to add a custom banner to your blogger website to display certain places of your site or platforms you're currently subscribed to. Good news, we've got a widget to match your liking as seen above.

Step 1: Go to Blogger's layout section and click Add Gadgets 

Step 2: You will have to choose HTML/JavaScript and copy the code provided below

<div class="custom-banner">

    <div class="banner-content">

        <h3>Explore Our Content!</h3>

        <p>Check out our latest posts and resources.</p>

        <div class="banner-buttons">

<a href="https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/p/posts-you-might-like.html?m=1" class="banner-btn">Cartoon Games</a>

            <a href="https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/p/featured-attractions.html?m=1" class="banner-btn">DStv Highlights</a>

            <a href="https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/search/label/Everyday%20Novelas?m=1" class="banner-btn">Telenovela Updates</a>

<a href="https://www.mediafire.com/folder/7vznku6zvg906/Insidus+Collection" class="banner-btn">Insidus Plus - Documents And Games</a>

<a href="https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/search/label/Openview%20Plus?m=1" class="banner-btn">Openview Highlights</a>

<a href="https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/p/posts-you-might-like.html?m=1" class="banner-btn">News On Animation</a>

<a href="https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/search/label/Sports%20Entertainment?m=1" class="banner-btn">Sports Highlights</a>

<a href="https://taplink.cc/prsdube16" class="banner-btn">Social Platforms</a>

<a href="https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/search/label/Video%20Entertainment?m=1" class="banner-btn">Streaming Highlights</a>

        </div>

    </div>

</div>

<style>

.custom-banner {

    background-color: #FFFFFF;

    border: 0px solid #ddd;

    border-radius: 8px;

    padding: 20px;

    text-align: center;

    margin: 10px auto;

    max-width: 1200px; /* Adjust width as needed */

}

.banner-content h3 {

    font-size: 24px;

    margin: 0 0 10px;

    color: #333;

}

.banner-content p {

    font-size: 16px;

    color: #666;

    margin: 0 0 15px;

}

.banner-buttons {

    display: flex;

    justify-content: center;

    gap: 10px;

    flex-wrap: wrap;

}

.banner-btn {

    background-color: #ff0000;

    color: #ffff00 !important;

    padding: 10px 20px;

    text-decoration: none;

    border-radius: 5px;

    font-size: 10px;

    transition: background-color 0.3s;

    white-space: nowrap;

}

.banner-btn:hover {

    background-color: #0056b3;

    color: #ffff00

}

@media (max-width: 600px) {

    .custom-banner {

        max-width: 90%;

        padding: 10px;

    }

    .banner-buttons {

        flex-direction: column;

    }

    .banner-btn {

        width: 88%;

        margin-bottom: 10px;

    }

}

</style>

Notes

• By <a></a> you can remove the links within href and replace them with your own

• Before closing with </a> you can give your link a name

How To Add A Recent Posts Slider To Your Blogger Website?

You may have visited a couple of websites and noticed that their posts move automatically in a vertical position and wondered how you can get this on your blogger website. Below is some types on how you can get this widget on your blogger website.

Step 1: Go to Blogger's layout section and click Add Gadgets 

Step 2: You will have to choose HTML/JavaScript and copy the code provided below

Below this recent post slider shows posts based on particular label 

<div id="recent-posts-slider">

  <ul id="recent-posts-list"></ul>

</div>

<style>

#recent-posts-slider {

  overflow: hidden;

  width: auto; /* Ensure full width */

  background: #f9f9f9;

  border: 0px solid #ddd;

  padding: 10px;

}

#recent-posts-list {

  display: flex;

  gap: 15px;

  animation: slide-left linear infinite;

  list-style: none;

  padding: 0;

  margin: 0;

}

#recent-posts-list li {

  min-width: 220px;

  max-width: 220px;

  background: transparent;

  border: 0px solid #ccc;

  padding: 5px;

  box-shadow: 2px 2px 5px rgba(0,0,0,0.1);

  text-align: center;

}

#recent-posts-list img {

  max-width: 100%;

  height: auto;

  margin-bottom: 8px;

}

#recent-posts-list a {

  text-decoration: none;

  color: #ff6a00;

  font-weight: bold;

}

/* Media Queries for responsiveness */

@media (max-width: 768px) {

  #recent-posts-list li {

    min-width: 150px; /* Reduce the min-width on mobile */

    max-width: 150px;

  }

}

@media (max-width: 480px) {

  #recent-posts-list li {

    min-width: 120px; /* Further reduce for smaller screens */

    max-width: 120px;

  }

}

@keyframes slide-left {

  0% { transform: translateX(0); }

  100% { transform: translateX(-100%); }

}

</style>

<script>

  const feedUrl = "https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default/-/Upcoming?alt=json"; // Change 'Tech' to your label

  const list = document.getElementById("recent-posts-list");

  fetch(feedUrl)

    .then(res => res.json())

    .then(data => {

      const posts = data.feed.entry || [];

      posts.slice(0, 10).forEach(post => {

        const title = post.title.$t;

        const link = post.link.find(l => l.rel === "alternate").href;

        let thumb = "https://via.placeholder.com/220x150?text=No+Image";

        if (post.media$thumbnail) {

          thumb = post.media$thumbnail.url;

        } else if (post.content && post.content.$t.match(/<img[^>]+src="([^">]+)/)) {

          thumb = post.content.$t.match(/<img[^>]+src="([^">]+)/)[1];

        }

        const li = document.createElement("li");

        li.innerHTML = `

          <a href="${link}" target="_blank">

            <img src="${thumb}" alt="${title}" />

            <div>${title}</div>

          </a>

        `;

        list.appendChild(li);

      });

      const speed = 40;

      list.style.animationDuration = `${speed}s`;

    })

    .catch(err => {

      console.error("Failed to load recent posts:", err);

      list.innerHTML = "<li>Failed to load posts.</li>";

    });

</script>

This recent posts slider shows all posts by default

<div id="recent-posts-slider">

  <ul id="recent-posts-list"></ul>

</div>

<style>

#recent-posts-slider {

  overflow: hidden;

  width: auto; /* Ensure full width */

  background: #f9f9f9;

  border: 0px solid #ddd;

  padding: 10px;

}

#recent-posts-list {

  display: flex;

  gap: 15px;

  animation: slide-left linear infinite;

  list-style: none;

  padding: 0;

  margin: 0;

}

#recent-posts-list li {

  min-width: 220px;

  max-width: 220px;

  background: transparent;

  border: 0px solid #ccc;

  padding: 5px;

  box-shadow: 2px 2px 5px rgba(0,0,0,0.1);

  text-align: center;

}

#recent-posts-list img {

  max-width: 100%;

  height: auto;

  margin-bottom: 8px;

}

#recent-posts-list a {

  text-decoration: none;

  color: #ff6a00;

  font-weight: bold;

}

/* Media Queries for responsiveness */

@media (max-width: 768px) {

  #recent-posts-list li {

    min-width: 150px; /* Reduce the min-width on mobile */

    max-width: 150px;

  }

}

@media (max-width: 480px) {

  #recent-posts-list li {

    min-width: 120px; /* Further reduce for smaller screens */

    max-width: 120px;

  }

}

@keyframes slide-left {

  0% { transform: translateX(0); }

  100% { transform: translateX(-100%); }

}

</style>

<script>

  const feedUrl = "https://prsdube16.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=json"; 

  const list = document.getElementById("recent-posts-list");

  fetch(feedUrl)

    .then(res => res.json())

    .then(data => {

      const posts = data.feed.entry || [];

      posts.slice(0, 10).forEach(post => {

        const title = post.title.$t;

        const link = post.link.find(l => l.rel === "alternate").href;

        let thumb = "https://via.placeholder.com/220x150?text=No+Image";

        if (post.media$thumbnail) {

          thumb = post.media$thumbnail.url;

        } else if (post.content && post.content.$t.match(/<img[^>]+src="([^">]+)/)) {

          thumb = post.content.$t.match(/<img[^>]+src="([^">]+)/)[1];

        }

        const li = document.createElement("li");

        li.innerHTML = `

          <a href="${link}" target="_blank">

            <img src="${thumb}" alt="${title}" />

            <div>${title}</div>

          </a>

        `;

        list.appendChild(li);

      });

      const speed = 40;

      list.style.animationDuration = `${speed}s`;

    })

    .catch(err => {

      console.error("Failed to load recent posts:", err);

      list.innerHTML = "<li>Failed to load posts.</li>";

    });

</script>

Notes

• By const feedURL replace it with your URL and the Upcoming label replace it with any label on your website

• The const speed widget goes faster if decrease below 40

• By posts slice (0,10) this is where you decide how many posts you want to have displayed

What Happened To Former Barbie's Former Rival Bratz?

With the resurgence of Barbie dolls through Greta Gerwig's Barbie, the natural next pick would be a look into the world of the Bratz doll. After all, in many ways, Barbie and Bratz became opposing rivals in the toy world for years.

Girls on the playground would often debate the merits of their favorite dolls. Sometimes, though, they would mix the two together and use their imagination to bridge the gap. With a recent look into Barbie, it begs the question: What happened to Bratz?

What happened to Bratz dolls?

Bratz dolls were released long after Barbie, debuting in 2001. But, they were created by a former employee of Mattel, the company that owns Barbie, so the competition between the two was immediate. Over the years, they've faced public backlash and ridicule.

Bratz dolls are still somewhat available, although they've been discontinued a few times. Not shockingly, Mattel slammed them with a lawsuit due to some similarities and copyright issues. After Bratz's parent company, MGA Entertainment, won the case, they lifted a pause that had been put on the brand.

They even launched a 10 year anniversary line with some modifications. In 2014, the line of the time wasn't available in North America and, when the company came back in 2015, they only lasted for a year before being discontinued again.

Why do people hate Bratz dolls?

The issues in regards to Bratz dolls vary depending on the person. Staunch Barbie lovers weren't happy with the seemingly copy cat creation, but their anger was put to rest when the litigation settled.

A major issue that the Bratz dolls faced was red flags about unrealistic beauty standards. Bratz dolls were very glam in nature, often wearing full faces of makeup. Plus, many argued that the body proportions and facial features were pushing a certain type of standard on young girls.

In fact, the last line of Bratz dolls' main criticisms was that the dolls were marketed towards young girls rather than tween and teen markets which were believed to be better suited to the more 'sexy' look. The adult-like portrayal left parents uncertain about handing over the toy to their kids.

Of course, the body standard argument didn't only apply to Bratz dolls as Barbie has often received the same sort of feedback. However, Barbie supporters often argue that her design is typically more reserved in fashion and that her storyline includes aspirational jobs meant to inspire young women.

Issues with Bratz dolls stemmed beyond just the design. The manufacturer was slammed with allegations of paying its factory workers a very low rate, around $0.515 an hour, according to a report from China Labor Watch.

MGA denied the allegations. After that, the company became ensnared in a variety of legal issues. Lady Gaga even took the company to court at one point, alleging that the company purposefully delayed the release of a doll that was supposed to look like her.

Over all, Bratz dolls certainly had their moment in early 2000s culture, but they haven't stood the test of time as well as brands like Barbie. They're still an option for kids today, but not as widespread.

This was originally published by Distractify

The Story Of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)

Kentucky Fried Chicken, the national fried chicken chain known as KFC, is synonymous with Colonel Sanders, its mascot that appears in the logo and advertisements. In fact, Colonel Sanders is more than a mascot because he's actually based on the fast food chain's founder, Harland Sanders, who started the company and later opened the first KFC franchise restaurant near Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1952.

So, it might come as a surprise that Sanders had a falling out with the chain after he sold its 600-plus locations to former Kentucky governor John Y. Brown Jr. and another investor in 1964 for $2 million and an annual salary of $40,000. He seemingly had a good relationship with the company for a while because he continued to appear in ads and visit KFC locations as the chain grew in the U.S. and Canada. Despite that relationship, Sanders was unhappy with changes in the recipes and opened a new restaurant called Claudia Sanders, The Colonel's Lady Dinner House with his wife Claudia Sanders in 1968.

In 1971, KFC was absorbed by Heublein, and the company wasn't happy about the Colonel using his image with his new restaurant venture. Heublein took Sanders to court, but he ended up countersuing the conglomerate for more than $122 million in 1974. The lawsuit claimed that Heublein prevented Sanders from franchising his new restaurant and that it was unlawfully using his image for products he didn't develop. The lawsuit was eventually settled for $1 million and the couple was allowed to keep their eatery. 

KFC and Colonel Sanders' troubled history

However, that wasn't the only lawsuit between the two parties. During many of his appearances at KFC restaurants, Colonel Harland Sanders made it clear that he wasn't happy with how the chain had changed up its recipes for gravy and fried chicken. According to The New York Times, he allegedly referred to the gravy as "sludge." He even went on record in an interview with The Courier-Journal newspaper (via The Day) describing the chain's chicken breading as "a damn fried dough ball stuck on some chicken" among other insults. He further criticized how KFC made its gravy, referring to it as "wallpaper paste." 

The remarks led the company to sue Sanders in 1975 for libel and defamation. However, the lawsuit was unsuccessful because a judge ruled that his criticism came via newspapers and could not be regarded as direct libel. By then, Sanders and his wife had opened their own eatery under a new name called Claudia Sanders Dinner House, in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

The pair eventually sold the restaurant, though it still operates in its new location where you can enjoy dishes like fried chicken, catfish, and fried green tomatoes. Sanders died in 1980, but if you want to take a bite of his historic fried chicken made with KFC's secret blend of 11 herbs and spices still used today, there are over 25,000 KFC restaurants operating in more than 145 countries as of 2023.

The Origin Story Of DreamWorks' Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron

An inspiring story of survival, strength, friendship, and freedom, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron is an all-time favorite movie for horse lovers of all ages. It follows a wild mustang as he fights for his freedom and that of his herd. The artistry, story line, and killer soundtrack work together to make a horse movie worth watching over and over.

It’s been 18 years since the original animated movie made its debut. You might have every line memorized, but did you know there is a real-life Spirit that inspired the fictional character?

Unlike other animated movies, Spirit is based on reality as much as possible. The horses don’t talk, and generalized events including the expansion of the railroad are based on fact, not fiction. Producers thought it was important to deliver a film that inspired viewers while melding the worlds of animation and real life. Achieving that goal would take more than clever animation. They needed artistry that could tell a story without dialogue and evoke emotions with each movement.

To do that, artists needed a model. They needed a real-life horse that would serve as inspiration and example. After a search, they found a Kiger mustang with beautiful conformation, coloring, and strength. His name was Donner, but these days, that real-life mustang goes by a different name: Spirit.

DreamWorks selected the now-named Spirit when he was a colt. Born to a stallion and mare that had been captured by the BLM in Oregon, Spirit was (and still is) a beautiful example of the Kiger mustang breed. His wide-set eyes and thick, wavy, multi-colored tail and mane became the inspiration for the animated horse that is still stealing hearts all these years later.

Before the 2002 movie made it to the big screen, animators spent countless hours observing Spirit. They watched how his muscles moved when he ran and how his face changed with his mood. With Spirit’s help, animators created an accurate equine character that looks and moves just like their live model.

When the movie was finished, DreamWorks chose Return to Freedom’s American Wild Horse Sanctuary to be Spirit’s permanent home. It’s been almost two decades since Spirit posed for animators, but the beautiful mustang we all love still serves as an advocate for Kiger mustangs and all of America’s wild horses. In fact, he recently celebrated his 25th birthday!

Like his animated character, the real-life Spirit is part of the fight to help wild horses maintain their natural habitats and freedom. While he lives at the sanctuary and loves interacting with people, Spirit is a prominent ambassador for wild horses. He engages youth around the world to learn more about America’s mustangs and every horse’s need for freedom and protection.

He lives on Return to Freedom’s headquarter facility in Santa Barbara County on 300 acres of pristine California pasture. From a young age he learned to be comfortable around people, but those who know him best say he has spunk and spirit similar to that of his fictional character. He’s grown to be an important part of the wild horse sanctuary, and he’s helping educate the public about his breed and ways humans can protect all of America’s wild horses.

With Spirit’s claim to fame, he attracts crowds of fans to his sanctuary home. During these visits, the real-life Spirit helps the sanctuary spread an important message about what’s currently happening to the country’s wild horses and what the public can do to help.

Spirit’s work in inspiring others has been recognized not only by the countless people he has met, but also by the EQUUS Foundation and the United States Equestrian Foundation. The organizations inducted Spirit into the Horse Stars Hall of Fame in 2018, and he continues to influence the sanctuary’s mission even decades after Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron was released.

Now 25 years old, the real-life Spirit is busy enjoying life at the sanctuary. He spends his days interacting with a few of his equine friends and enjoying attention and care from his favorite humans. He was born in captivity, but the spirit of independence and the wild west lives in his veins. And thanks to Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, his image will continue to show others that freedom is always worth fighting for.

The Controversial Life Of American Actor Mark Salling

Mark Salling was an American actor and musician who is best known for appearing on hit TV series Glee. The star died at the age of 35, weeks before he was due to be jailed after pleading guilty to two child pornography charges.

Who is Mark Salling?

Mark Salling was born in Dallas, Texas, on August 17, 1982, and was raised in a "strict Christian home".

He graduated from high school in 2001, before attending the Los Angeles Academy College of Music, where he gave guitar lessons to make a living.

After roles in films Children Of The Corn IV and The Graveyard, Salling was cast in the TV show Glee in 2008, playing American football star Noah "Puck" Puckerman.

During his six seasons on the show, his performances led to Salling being nominated for a Teen Choice Award for male Breakout Star.

What were the child porn charges faced by Mark Salling?

On October 4, 2017, Salling pleaded guilty to two counts of child pornography.

Police found 50,000 "sexually charged" images on the 35-year-old's computer, including pictures containing a pre-pubescent child.

While he was initially facing 20 years jail time, TMZ reported that prosecutors were looking for a sentence of between four and seven years with 20 years of supervised release.

Salling agreed to compensate the children in the photos to the tune of $50,000 each.

He was also required to enter a sex offender treatment programme as part of his plea deal.

The actor was initially caught after police were reportedly tipped off by one of the star's ex-girlfriends and he was arrested on December 29, 2015, but later released on $20,000 bail.

He was charged with receiving and possessing child pornography on May 27, 2016.

The case was referred to federal authorities after investigators realised the scope of the collection.

Lieutenant Andrea Grossman, commander of the LAPD Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, said: "It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do, if you hurt a child you will be held accountable."

She added: "These images are more than photographs, they are child abuse."

What was Mark Salling's cause of death?

On January 30, 2018, TMZ reported that Salling had taken his own life, just weeks before he was due to be jailed over child pornography charges.

His lawyer confirmed the death of the actor, who was found dead in a field close to where he lived and near a baseball field after a "welfare check" 911 call at 8.50am.

TMZ reported that a family member reported Salling missing at 3am on Tuesday, January 30.

According to the website, he was found hanged, with a coroner confirming in February 2018 his death was due to "asphyxia by hanging, suicide".

In a statement given to The Blast his family said: "Mark was a gentle and loving person, a person of great creativity, who was doing his best to atone for some serious mistake and errors of judgement.

"He is survived by his mother and father, and brother. The Salling family appreciates the support they have been receiving and asks for their privacy to be respected."

TMZ also reported that the actor had cut both his wrists in a suicide attempt weeks before his guilty plea.

He reportedly "freaked out" and called for his roommate, who contacted the emergency services.

Salling was rushed to hospital and taken to a rehab facility a few days later.

What did Mark Salling's ex girlfriend say about his death?

Actress Georgie Leahy was with Mark right up until his arrest for child-pornography.

She said she was having a manicure when the news broke.

"I collapsed in the nail salon," Leahy told The NY Post.

"What happened with Mark evoked so many complex feelings," she said.

"I didn't feel like I had permission to hurt because of everything he was accused of."

This was originally published by The Sun

Maxwell Atoms On When Cartoon Network Originally Died: "We Also Had To Cut Ourselves...Which Is When CN Died"

Cartoon Network is an international children's channel operated by Warner Bros. Discovery alongside TNT and Cartoonito. It is home to shows like Adventure Time, Tiny Toons Looniversity, Craig Of The Creek and Dexter's Laboratory.

As some readers know, one of the channel's remaining primetime shows Jellystone will be having a crossover special. Similar to Teen Titans GO! WB100 special, it would feature a variety of animated characters that had already been viewed on Cartoon Network. 

A fan had asked Maxwell Atoms (creator of The Grim Adventures Of Billy And Mandy) if all animated characters would appear on the show and his response was mentioned below in bold:

We put as much as we could. More than a recommended doctor. But we only used shows made at CN Studios (not Teen Titans GO!). I believe Mixels was an acquisition. We also had to cut ourselves around 2008, which is when CN originally died.

Taking to account that shows like Steven Universe, Adventure Time and Chowder were all conceived after that timeline of Cartoon Network. Atoms views on the network had somewhat got a lot of mixed reactions from former and current viewers.

Even after 2008, Cartoon Network continued having a lot of great shows from what we can gather with Atoms views. That timeline coincides with when he and Genndy Tartakovsky had exited the network as there was a lot of corporate changes behind the scenes.

But even then like I said Cartoon Network was still a go to channel for children and animation lovers alike. If we had to guess when Atoms views materialized on the network it was no less than the 2010s era with the latest residing by 2015/6.

At this time, Cartoon Network was building a wall between shows like Ben 10: Omniverse and Steven Universe as these were their more action-ie shows. With the current slate being dominant around comedic styles with Teen Titans GO! and Uncle Grandpa. 

Following the merger of WarnerMedia and Discovery, Cartoon Network has never recovered from the after effects. At the moment, there's only 4 originals with 1 imported from Europe, 2 produced by Warner Bros. Animation and the last being an actual original.

It is believed that this merger had since scared potential animators from associating themselves with the network as they try to navigate the current landscape.