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Western Anime Localizers No Longer Needed?

Derek Gibbs
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Western Anime Localizers No Longer Needed?

In recent years, anime fans have been locked in a heated battle over localization. From accusations of politically driven mistranslations to anime purists demanding more faithful adaptations, the industry has faced increasing scrutiny.

Now, thanks to cutting-edge AI technology, the role of anime localizers may soon be up for grabs.

At CES 2025, VideoLAN, the organization behind the iconic VLC media player, unveiled a real-time AI subtitling tool capable of generating subtitles and translating them into over 100 languages—all offline. Unlike existing cloud-based services, this tool runs locally, delivering immediate results without internet dependency. In a demo, VideoLAN president Jean-Baptiste Kempf showcased the tool’s seamless integration into VLC, stating:

“What’s important is that this is running on your machine locally, offline, without any cloud services.”

No release date has been announced yet, but the tool promises to revolutionize media accessibility and localization.

The Downfall of Localization as We Know It?

For years, anime localizers have been a cornerstone of the industry, ensuring that audiences worldwide can enjoy their favorite shows. However, this process hasn’t been without controversy. Certain adaptations have faced backlash for inserting “modern Western politics” into Japanese scripts, sparking outrage among anime purists.

The “Woke” Localization Controversy

The world of anime localization has been mired in controversy over the years, with purists criticizing some Western translations for deviating significantly from the original Japanese dialogue. These changes often come under the umbrella of “wokeness,” where translators reportedly inject modern social or political commentary that wasn’t present in the source material. This has led to a growing divide between those who view localization as a necessary adaptation for cultural context and those who demand a more literal, faithful translation.

Examples of this include the infamous Dragon Maid localization, where dialogue about a character’s admiration for another’s strength was changed to include an overt reference to “patriarchy.”

Similarly, fans of the game Fire Emblem: Fates noticed that certain lines were softened or completely rewritten to cater to Western sensibilities, resulting in a backlash that still echoes today. Critics argue that these changes dilute the original meaning and character intent, prioritizing political correctness over narrative fidelity.

VLC’s real-time AI subtitling promises to bypass human subjectivity altogether. The AI-driven system provides a direct, unfiltered translation of the original script, which many anime fans see as a win for authenticity.

This shift could also extend to voice acting. In fact, the technology to dub original Japanese performances into other languages, while retaining the authenticity of the original actor’s voice, is already here.

For example, Dragon Ball’s legendary voice actor Masako Nozawa was recently digitally transformed into an English-speaking version of Goku, demonstrating how AI can deliver localized audio without hiring new actors.

With tools like VLC’s AI subtitle generator and even advanced AI dubbing, enjoying manga, anime, and video games as originally intended by their Japanese creators without Western interference may become the new normal.

The Industry Reaction

Naturally, these developments have sparked debate. Proponents argue that AI ensures translations remain faithful to the original script, offering a more authentic viewing experience. On the other hand, skeptics worry about job losses and the potential for AI-generated subtitles to miss cultural nuances.

As AI-powered tools like these become more accessible, their impact on the industry is inevitable, and it’s not just localizers who might feel the pinch.

The Wrap-Up: The Future Is Here—And It’s Automated

With VLC’s game-changing tool on the horizon and AI dubbing already making waves, anime localization could look vastly different within the next few years. Whether you’re an anime purist or just looking for better accessibility, one thing’s certain: the way we consume international media is evolving at lightning speed.

Sources:

Sailor Moon, Scouts, and Tuxedo Mask Apparel Is Now Available From BoxLunch

Kambrea 'Geeky Sparkles' Pratt
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Sailor Moon, Scouts, and Tuxedo Mask Apparel Is Now Available From BoxLunch

BoxLunch has dropped some adorable new Sailor Moon apparel, including pieces featuring the sailor senshi and Tuxedo Mask! Today is just my day!

Am I a grown adult who will wear these all over town to meetings, conventions, etc.? Heck yeah!

Let’s take a look at all the wonderful new pieces!
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Crisis Moon Compact Crest Knit Sweater – 69.90

BoxLunch Sailor Moon sweater

This is a BoxLunch exclusive and comes in sizes XS-3X.

It’s so girly and pink and I LOVE IT!

It is made from 54% rayon; 23% recycled polyester; 23% nylon

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Rhinestone Kaleido Moon Scope Cropped T-Shirt – $34.90

Sizes XS-3X

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Rhinestone Kaleido Moon Scope Cropped Plus Size T-Shirt – $34.90

Sizes 1-5

This is also a BoxLunch exclusive piece! The front features “Sailor Moon” in rhinestones and the back has the embroidered words “Sailor Moon” with a design of the Kaleido Moon Scope highlighted by rhinestones.

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Bow Women’s Zippered Hoodie- $59.90

Sizes XS-3X

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Bow Women’s Zippered Hoodie Plus Size – $59.90

Sizes 1-4

This piece is also a BoxLunch exclusive.

I love the deep blue color that features an embroidered bow on the front and the Kaleido Moon Scope with rhinestones on the back. The moon zipper pull is a fantastic touch.

It is made from Cotton and polyester fleece.
Wash cold with like colors; dry low

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Icons Women’s Varsity Jacket- $89.90

Sizes XS-3X are available.

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Icons Women’s Varsity Jacket Plus Sizes – $89.90

Sizes 1-5 are available.

Another BoxLunch exclusive piece that looks like a Varsity Jacket featuring an applique of Sailor Moon and he Kaleido Moon Scope. There is a satin applique of the Crisis Moon Compact on the back along with various rhinestone lettering, patches, etc.

Body: Polyester melton
Lining: 100% cotton
Wash cold with like colors; dry low

Pretty Guardian Sailor Princess Serenity Smock Dress – $58.90

Sizes Xs -3X.

Pretty Guardian Sailor Princess Serenity Plus Size Smock Dress – $58.90

Sizes 1-5

I love this dress! It features Sailor Moon, Mini Moon, and Pegasus in the design!

It also has pockets and puff sleeves and is done in a polyester fabric.

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Princess Serenity Wings Mini Backpack – $74.90

I LOVE This mini backpack so much!

“Featuring a portrait of Princess Serenity, Small Lady, and Pegasus, the front also features pearl details. With applique wings, a magnetic strap closure, and side pockets, this bag is perfect for fans of the anime.”

Now, the extra special Tuxedo Mask pieces!

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Tuxedo Mask Icons Bomber Jacket – $89.90

Sizes XS-3X are available.

This is also a BoxLunch exclusive.

“Tuxedo Mask, the front included an embroidered design of his mask and his name. With a large portrait of the character on the back, this bomber style jacket is perfect for fans of the anime.

  • Polyester
  • Wash cold with like colors; dry low“
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Tuxedo Mask Roses Western Woven Button-Up – $54.90

Sizes XS-3X are available.

“Featuring embroidered rose details on the front, the back includes a design of Tuxedo Mask beneath his name. With a color blocked top and snap buttons, this western style shirt is perfect for fans of the anime.

Rayon”

Sailor Scout Ball Caps!

There are five Sailor Scout options and a Luna option. They are $22.90 each!

Sailor Moon, Sailor Mars, Sailor Venus, Sailor Mercury, Sailor Jupiter, and Luna are available.

You can find these pieces and more on BoxLunch now!

Can You Buy a Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Faux Leather Jacket At Hot Topic? Yes!

Kambrea 'Geeky Sparkles' Pratt
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Can You Buy a Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Faux Leather Jacket At Hot Topic? Yes!

File this under things I might need in my life. Hot Topic has dropped a new Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon fashion line, and it includes a faux leather jacket with bows.

Hells yeah!

Oh, and it comes in regular and plus sizes, too, so many more Sailor Moon fans can have the opportunity to wear it.

Let’s take a look!
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Faux Leather Jacket – $79.90

Sizes S-3X

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Faux Leather Jacket Plus Size – $84.90

Sizes 0-5

The piece is done in black, pinks, and white. The front features two “bows” made from the “leather” and the back features a Sailor Moon silhouette made from the “leather.”

The words “Sailor Moon” are also showcased across the back of the jacket.

The bows remind me a bit of dumplings, which is fitting. (iykyk)

Front double zipper closure. The sleeves also have zippers on the ends.

It features a collar and elastic band at the bottom for a more comfortable fit.  I love the pink line running through the banding. It gives it a fun pop of color and just looks cool!

“Stay nice and warm while you fight evil by moonlight! This Sailor Moon faux leather jacket features bows at the chest inspired by Sailor Moon’s, plus her name and her silhouette stitched on the back. Comes with a collar, front pockets and double zippers.

  • 100% rayon
  • Wash cold; line dry
  • Double zipper“

I love this so much! Debating about buying it or passing the info along to my husband as a possible gift idea down the road.

This piece is just part of a new collection released on Hot Topic.

Just stay tuned though. A bunch of fantastic Sailor Moon, Tuxedo Mask, and Sailor Scout pieces were also released on BoxLunch too and I’m going to post some of those as well.

What do you think? Comment and let us know!

Lego x Nintendo Game Boy Set: Everything We Know So Far

Derek Gibbs
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Lego x Nintendo Game Boy Set: Everything We Know So Far

It’s official, folks—Nintendo and Lego are teaming up again, this time for a brick-built Game Boy set. Slated for release in October 2025, this collaboration is already making waves with fans of retro gaming and Lego collectors alike. Let’s break down what we know so far.

A Brick-Built Blast from the Past

The set promises to be a faithful Lego replica of the OG Nintendo Game Boy—the handheld that changed portable gaming forever back in 1989. The teaser video floating around on social media shows Lego versions of those iconic purple buttons and the black D-pad. It’s shaping up to be a 1:1 scale model, much like the super-detailed Lego Nintendo Entertainment System set from a few years back. Translation? This thing’s gonna look real good on your shelf.

Release Date & Availability

Mark your calendars for October 2025, just in time for the holiday season. No word yet on the price, piece count, or exact launch day, but let’s be real—this thing’s gonna sell like hotcakes.

Nostalgia Overload

For anyone who lived through the late ’80s and ’90s, the Game Boy is pure nostalgia gold. With over 119 million units sold worldwide, it’s not just a gaming icon—it’s a cultural phenomenon. This set is clearly aimed at folks who grew up battling Tetris blocks and catching Pokémon under the dim glow of a streetlight.

Nintendo x Lego: A Winning Formula

This isn’t the first time Nintendo and Lego have joined forces. Remember the Lego NES set, the Mario-themed playsets, Animal Crossing and even the Zelda Great Deku Tree build? Every one of those sets was a hit, so it’s safe to say the Game Boy set will follow suit.

What We’re Hoping For

Will it come with buildable game cartridges? Functional buttons? Maybe even an Easter egg or two? We’ll have to wait for more details, but fans are already speculating about interactive features, much like the ones in the NES set. Just don’t expect it to actually play games—this is Lego, not a miracle worker.

The Hype Is Real

Social media is already buzzing about this announcement, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of nostalgia and Lego creativity is a perfect storm for retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the release date. More details about features, pricing, and availability are sure to drop, and you better believe I’ll be keeping my eyes peeled.

Oh Snap! TikTok Might Actually Get Shut Down for Real on January 19!

Steven Bubbles
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Oh Snap! TikTok Might Actually Get Shut Down for Real on January 19!

It’s getting serious for TikTok. The wildly popular app, known for its short videos and endless trends, is now facing its biggest challenge yet: a potential U.S. shutdown. Unless the Supreme Court steps in to block or delay a looming law, TikTok could be forced to sell its U.S. operations—or cease functioning entirely—by January 19, 2025.

The Situation So Far

TikTok could face a U.S. shutdown by January 19, 2025, unless the Supreme Court intervenes to block or delay a law that effectively forces its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell its U.S. operations. According to CBS News, this ban stems from national security concerns, with lawmakers fearing that the Chinese government could access TikTok’s user data or leverage the platform for propaganda purposes.

While the Biden administration defends the ban, TikTok and its user base argue it violates free speech. Lawyers representing creators have labeled the situation a “dramatic violation” of constitutional rights.

The Stakes

TikTok’s popularity in the U.S. is staggering, boasting 170 million monthly users. Shutting down the app, even temporarily, could be catastrophic. ByteDance estimates that just a month-long shutdown could result in a one-third drop in daily users and a significant loss in advertising revenue.

For content creators, the stakes are just as high. Many have built careers around TikTok, and a ban could force them to pivot to less popular platforms like Reels or YouTube Shorts.

Trump’s Surprising Move

In a twist worthy of a political drama, President-elect Donald Trump, who previously supported a TikTok ban, has now urged the Supreme Court to delay enforcement of the law. Trump hopes to negotiate a resolution once he takes office, framing himself as the only one capable of brokering a deal.

What Happens If TikTok Is Banned?

Even if TikTok is banned, it won’t vanish overnight. Users who already have the app can keep it, but they won’t receive updates, and new downloads will be unavailable. This creates a major gap in app functionality and security over time, essentially forcing users to move on.

A Larger Battle

The TikTok debacle is part of a broader debate over foreign tech ownership and free speech in the digital age. Some argue the ban is necessary to safeguard national security, while others see it as government overreach. Either way, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for future tech regulation.

The Wrap Up: Free Speech or National Security?

TikTok has survived controversies before, but this Supreme Court case could be the app’s biggest challenge yet. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying its cultural significance—and its uncertain future could ripple far beyond viral dance videos.

Stay tuned, because this story is evolving faster than a trending TikTok sound.

Sources:

HuffPost Lays Off 22% of Its Journos as Mainstream Media Implosion Continues

Derek Gibbs
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HuffPost Lays Off 22% of Its Journos as Mainstream Media Implosion Continues

In yet another grim chapter for mainstream media, HuffPost is cutting 30 editorial positions, accounting for roughly 22% of its newsroom. According to a memo from Editor-in-Chief Danielle Belton, the layoffs are attributed to “growing challenges” in the industry—a common refrain for digital and print outlets grappling with declining ad revenue and shifting consumer habits.

This latest shake-up marks a continuation of a troubling trend within the once-dominant HuffPost, which was initially hailed as a revolutionary digital media outlet.

A Brief History of HuffPost’s Rise and Corporate Shuffle

Founded in 2005 by Arianna Huffington, Andrew Breitbart, Jonah Peretti, and Kenneth Lerer, HuffPost (originally The Huffington Post) quickly established itself as a powerhouse in the world of online journalism. Known for its click-friendly headlines, opinion-driven content, and progressive slant, HuffPost was one of the first purely digital outlets to gain widespread credibility, even earning a Pulitzer Prize in 2012 for national reporting.

In 2011, the site was acquired by AOL for $315 million, a landmark deal that signaled the growing influence of online media over traditional print. However, HuffPost’s trajectory changed yet again in 2015, when Verizon acquired AOL, lumping HuffPost into a broader portfolio that included Yahoo and other legacy internet brands.

The next major shift came in 2020, when Verizon sold HuffPost to BuzzFeed in a bid to streamline its holdings. BuzzFeed CEO Jonah Peretti described the acquisition as a chance to bolster BuzzFeed’s position in the media landscape, but the transition proved rocky.

HuffPost vs. Gamers

HuffPost has also faced criticism over the years for its stance on gaming culture, particularly during the height of the Gamergate controversy in the mid-2010s. The outlet published numerous articles that many perceived as dismissive, if not outright hostile, toward gamers, framing the community as toxic and reactionary.

These pieces often sparked backlash, with critics accusing HuffPost of painting gamers with a broad, negative brush and contributing to the polarization between mainstream media and gaming audiences. This “strained relationship” with gamers likely alienated a significant segment of potential readers and may have contributed to the outlet’s broader struggles to stay relevant.

Layoffs Have Long Been a Part of HuffPost’s Story

Unfortunately, layoffs are not a new phenomenon for HuffPost. In 2018, the outlet saw significant cuts when Verizon downsized its media assets. This trend repeated in 2021, shortly after BuzzFeed completed its acquisition of the outlet. BuzzFeed laid off 47 HuffPost staffers, citing financial losses at the time, with Peretti describing HuffPost as losing “more than $20 million annually.”

The latest round of cuts, however, seems even more ominous as HuffPost faces the same existential threats as many of its peers: declining traffic, falling ad revenues, and stiff competition from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Substack, where independent content creators are now siphoning away audiences from mainstream outlets.

The Bigger Picture: Mainstream Media’s Implosion

HuffPost’s woes are emblematic of a broader collapse across digital-first outlets. Once considered the future of journalism, digital media brands like BuzzFeed, Vice, and Vox have faced repeated rounds of layoffs, restructurings, and even bankruptcy filings. Vice Media, for example, filed for bankruptcy in 2023, while BuzzFeed shut down its Pulitzer-winning BuzzFeed News earlier this year. Even legacy outlets like The Washington Post and CNN have not been immune to the trend, announcing their own job cuts and restructurings.

The central issue? The advertising revenue that once sustained these outlets is no longer reliable. With major brands now prioritizing social media and influencer marketing, digital publishers have struggled to replace traditional revenue streams. Meanwhile, paywalls and subscription models have only worked for a select few, such as The New York Times, leaving most outlets scrambling for viable business strategies.

The mainstream media has faced “significant challenges” in recent years, with an estimated total of around 4,000 job cuts across the UK and US in 2024. In January 2024 alone, over 500 journalists were laid off. Below are some of the high-profile layoffs from that year:

2024 Layoffs

  • The Los Angeles Times: Laid off 115 employees in January, representing more than 20% of its newsroom staff.
  • NBC News: Underwent layoffs, cutting between 50 to 100 employees.
  • Time Magazine: Announced layoffs affecting around 30 staff members, primarily union-represented editorial employees.
  • National Geographic: Let go of all its staff writers (17 positions) as part of a shift to digital content.
  • Business Insider: Cut 8% of its workforce.
  • Forbes: Reduced its workforce by 3%.
  • Sports Illustrated: Faced significant layoffs after its marketing license was revoked by Authentic Brands Group.
  • The Messenger: A digital news startup that shut down entirely, affecting 300 journalists.

2025 Layoffs

The situation continued into 2025, with further notable layoffs:

  • The Washington Post: Announced layoffs affecting around 4% of its total staff, fewer than 100 employees across business divisions.
  • HuffPost: Planned to cut more than 30 editorial roles.

What’s Next for HuffPost?

The question now is whether HuffPost can weather this storm or if it will face the same fate as other embattled outlets. Belton remains optimistic about the site’s mission and its role in modern journalism, but the challenges ahead are daunting. For readers, the HuffPost layoffs represent more than just another headline; they serve as a stark reminder of the shifting media landscape, where even digital pioneers are finding it hard to survive.

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WWE Monday Night Raw on Netflix DOUBLED Its Cable Viewership

Derek Gibbs
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WWE Monday Night Raw on Netflix DOUBLED Its Cable Viewership

WWE is still super popular.

It’s no secret that WWE is a juggernaut in the world of sports entertainment, but its recent foray into streaming has officially smashed expectations. Monday Night Raw debuted on Netflix with a viewership that doubled its 2024 weekly cable average on the USA Network.

Yeah, you read that right. According to VideoAmp, Raw’s first Netflix episode drew in a staggering 2.6 million households in the U.S. alone​.

Breaking Records on Netflix

Worldwide, the numbers soared to 4.9 million views in just two days, with key markets like Canada, the U.K., and Australia contributing to the massive turnout. While it’s not quite on the level of Netflix’s top-tier scripted shows (which average 15.5 million views), it’s a major milestone for a brand testing the waters of digital distribution.

The partnership between WWE and Netflix is reportedly worth a jaw-dropping $5 billion, covering exclusive rights to Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and premium live events. It’s Netflix’s boldest step yet into the realm of live sports and entertainment—a calculated risk that seems to be paying off.

Historical Numbers for Monday Night Raw

WWE’s Monday Night Raw has always been a ratings heavyweight. During the height of the Attitude Era in the late ’90s, the show regularly pulled in 5 to 6 million weekly viewers. Even in 2024, with increased competition from streaming platforms and other sports, Raw still managed to average 1.2 million households per week on cable. The Netflix debut clearly tapped into nostalgia while attracting a fresh, broader audience.

WWE’s Streaming Success

The move to Netflix isn’t just a win for WWE—it’s a win for wrestling fans everywhere. By embracing streaming, WWE is proving that it can stay relevant in a constantly evolving entertainment landscape. With easier access to its content, WWE is poised to bring in even more casual viewers who might’ve missed out on cable or didn’t tune in weekly.

What Now?

This Netflix deal could redefine the future of professional wrestling. We’re not just talking about weekly shows—think crossover events, original series, and in-depth documentaries. Wrestling is back in the mainstream spotlight, and Netflix has given WWE the platform to expand its audience like never before.

So, whether you’re a fan of Roman Reigns’ dominance or you just miss the days of The Rock cutting promos, one thing is clear: WWE is here to stay, and now it’s streaming straight into our homes.

Sources:

CA Cupid Monster High Doll To Release With Scary Sweet Birthday Line

Kambrea 'Geeky Sparkles' Pratt
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CA Cupid Monster High Doll To Release With Scary Sweet Birthday Line

Monster High is gearing up to introduce another G1 character into the G3 doll line. This time, CA Cupid will finally be redone in the new doll style and join three other dolls as part of the Scary Sweet Birthday line.

My daughter is a big Monster High collector, and she only likes the original versions, so she isn’t sold on this new one. She says “It looks too much like the Ever After High version.” While she isn’t wrong, I’m still kind of excited to get her.

Like other G3 dolls, these ones are following in the footsteps of G1. Draculaura’s Sweet 1600.

Thanks to @Cleosnilee we have a look at the dolls and some information about them!

Cupid will be $24.99. Here is the write-up information,

“* – Draculaura is turning 1600, and the student bodies of Monster High are celebrating with a Scary Sweet Birthday bash! Cupid Asteria doll is ready to boo-gie in a gore-geous outfit and accessories.
* – Raised on Mount Olympus, Cupid Asteria loves love! She has a knack for making friends, giving advice, and floating through starry skies on her bone wings.
* – Her party lurk is frighteningly frilly! Red heart-print bloomers peek out from a shimmery dress. An arrow-pierced heart detail and crossbow bracelet make her outfit all the more golden!
* – Party-themed accessories set the scene for a Scary Sweet Birthday — like a gift bag for Draculaura with a surprise present inside! An invite, balloon, and birthday card are also included.
* – With styling pieces like an arrow tote and eyeshadow palette, kids and collectors alike will have a scream of a time helping Cupid Asteria doll get ready for her friend’s midnight bash!
* * – When it comes to a party, the more the merrier! Check out the whole Monster High Scary Sweet Birthday collection to throw a spooky skelebration with the whole boo crew.”

Scary Sweet Birthday Dolls

Draculaura -$24.99

“* -Draculaura doll is celebrating her Sweet 1600, and she looks every inch the birthday ghoul with her vamptastic party dress and accessories!
* – She wears a satiny pink dress with a spiderweb cage skirt and black gloves. A ‘pearl’ collar drapes across her shoulders, while bow-inspired heels add fangtastic flair to her lurk!
* – Party-themed accessories set the scene for a Scary Sweet Birthday — like a coffin gift box with a surprise present inside! An invite, batty balloon, and birthday card are also included.
* – With styling pieces like a fan and handbag, kids and collectors alike will have a scream of a time helping Draculaura doll get ready for her midnight bash!”

Cleo – $24.99

“* -Cleo De Nile doll is ready to boo-gie in a royally chic outfit and accessories.
* – She shines in her party lurk! A golden cage skirt with beaded accents floats over her dress, while sheer black sleeves with cascading ribbons add a regal touch.
* – Party-themed accessories set the scene for a Scary Sweet Birthday — like a gift bag for Draculaura with a surprise present inside! An invite, scarab balloon, and birthday card are also included.
* – With styling pieces like black lipstick and a cake frosting purse, kids and collectors alike will have a scream of a time helping Cleo De Nile doll get ready for her friend’s midnight bash!”

Frankie Stein – $24.99

“* -Frankie Stein doll is ready to boo-gie in an electrifying outfit and accessories.
* – Their party lurk crackles with energy! A plaid statement sleeve and silvery cage skirt add drama, while the lightning bolt necklace and studded heels add a stylish spark.
* – Party-themed accessories set the scene for a Scary Sweet Birthday — like a gift bag for Draculaura with a surprise present inside! An invite, balloon, and birthday card are also included.
* – With styling pieces like blue lipstick and a handbag, kids and collectors alike will have a scream of a time helping Frankie Stein doll get ready for their friend’s midnight bash!”

I love these dolls, especially Drac and Frankie! I think they are dominating the line.

These dolls are rumored to be released in Fall 2025.

SpongeBob Squarepants Patrick Star Loungefly Bags Are Now Available!

Kambrea 'Geeky Sparkles' Pratt
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SpongeBob Squarepants Patrick Star Loungefly Bags Are Now Available!

SpongeBob Squarepants fans have something to celebrate. Loungefly has just released three new pieces featuring Patrick Star and a Krabby Patty! They seem to be Valentine’s Day-themed as well!

I have a Loungefly problem, so I have to share my addiction with all of you.

Let’s take a look!
Limited Edition Patrick Star Mini Backpack – $90

SpongeBob Squarepants Patrick Star Loungefly

This sparkly sequined mini backpack features Patrick Star.
His arms are made to move, which makes it more fun.

  • Vegan leather (polyurethane)
  • Adjustable and padded shoulder straps
  • Sturdy top handle
  • Printed artwork on the back & shoulder straps, sequins on the front, top, and sides
  • Front zipper pocket
  • Rose gold-colored hardware
  • Applique, embroidered, silicone charm, sequin, and printed details
  • Coordinating inside lining
SpongeBob SquarePants & Patrick Star Hearts Mini Backpack – $80

SpongeBob Squarepants Patrick Star Loungefly

The design features Patrick and SpongeBob along with other characters on the side, such as Plankton holding a Krabby Patty.

  • Vegan leather (polyurethane)
  • Adjustable shoulder straps
  • Front zipper pocket
  • Side drop pockets
  • Silicone zipper charm
  • Shiny silver hardware
  • Applique, embroidered, metallic foil, and printed details
  • Coordinating inside lining

Here is the lining for this bag,

My favorite one is the next piece!

SpongeBob SquarePants Krabby Patty Plush Heart Crossbody Bag- $75

SpongeBob Squarepants Krabby Patty Loungefly

Everything about this piece is fun.

The handle has SpongeBob’s spatula at the top. The chain on the bag is 1/2 red and 1/2 yellow for ketchup and mustard. Even the ruffle is meant to represent lettuce!

So cute!

  • Plush bag with vegan leather (polyurethane) trim
  • Adjustable (detachable) shoulder strap
  • Top handle with enamel charm
  • Detachable vegan leather bag charm
  • Shiny silver hardware
  • Applique, chenille, embroidered, and printed details
  • Coordinating inside lining, which is the same as the Spongebob and Patrick Valentine’s mini backpack.

These pieces are available now from Loungefly and other retailers including Hot Topic.

What do you think? Which is your favorite?

Comment and let me know!

Billy Crystal, Mark Hamill, More Hollywood Celebrities Devastated by Pacific Palisades Fire

Steven Bubbles
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Billy Crystal, Mark Hamill, More Hollywood Celebrities Devastated by Pacific Palisades Fire

The Pacific Palisades fire has left a path of devastation in its wake, displacing thousands of residents and reducing hundreds of homes to ashes. Among the victims are some of Hollywood’s most beloved figures, including Billy Crystal and Star Wars icon Mark Hamill, whose accounts of loss and evacuation offer a glimpse into the human toll of this unfolding tragedy.

Billy Crystal Reflects on the Loss of His Family Home

Billy Crystal and his wife, Janice, are mourning the destruction of their Pacific Palisades home, which they lovingly called theirs for nearly half a century. In a heartfelt statement, the Crystals expressed their profound grief, saying, “Words cannot describe the enormity of the devastation we are witnessing and experiencing. We ache for our friends and neighbors who have also lost their homes and businesses in this tragedy.”

Crystal went on to reflect on the memories tied to their home, noting, “Every inch of our house was filled with love. Beautiful memories that can’t be taken away. We are heartbroken, but with the love of our children and friends, we will get through this.” Despite their personal loss, the Crystals remain resolute, expressing deep gratitude to the firefighters risking their lives to contain the inferno​.

Mark Hamill’s Close Call with the Flames

For Mark Hamill, the fire came too close for comfort. The actor, best known for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker, evacuated his Malibu home with his wife, Marilou, and their dog, Trixie, as the fire rapidly advanced. “You always know this is a possibility living here, but the reality of it is overwhelming,” Hamill said in an interview. “We packed what we could and left, hoping the house would still be there when we returned.”

Hollywood Fires: Here’s Which Celebrities Have Been Affected

Here’s what we know so far about the devastating Hollywood fires, based on numerous social media reports and posts from X. Please keep in mind that this information is subject to change as the situation evolves and as more official details become available. The fires have not only threatened the lives and homes of countless residents but have also impacted celebrities and Hollywood’s operations significantly.

General Information

  • Multiple wildfires are raging across Los Angeles County, including the Pacific Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, and other fires.
  • The Palisades Fire is considered the most destructive in Los Angeles history, having burned thousands of acres.
  • Evacuation orders have affected tens of thousands of people, with some areas under mandatory evacuation.
  • Five deaths have been reported, with over 1,000 buildings destroyed.
  • Strong Santa Ana winds are exacerbating the fires, leading to a state of emergency declaration.

Celebrities and Their Properties

  • Paris Hilton: Her Malibu beach house was completely destroyed.
  • Billy Crystal, Eugene Levy, John Goodman: Their homes have reportedly been destroyed by the fires.
  • Leighton Meester and Adam Brody: Their home was also destroyed.
  • Anna Faris: Lost her multimillion-dollar mansion in Pacific Palisades.
  • Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag: Lost their Pacific Palisades home.
  • Diane Warren: Lost her beach house after 30 years of ownership.
  • Cameron Mathison: Confirmed his home was destroyed.
  • Mandy Moore: Evacuated her home in Altadena, uncertain about the status of her property.
  • Mark Hamill: Evacuated from Malibu during the fires, calling it the “most horrific fire since ’93.”
  • James Woods: Evacuated his home, unsure if it survived.
  • Jamie Lee Curtis: Evacuated, mentioned that her neighborhood might be on fire but confirmed her family’s safety.
  • Steve Guttenberg: Assisted in evacuations by moving cars to clear the way for emergency vehicles.
  • Chris Pratt, Josh Gad, Octavia Spencer: Have publicly expressed support and concern for those affected.

Impact on Hollywood Events

  • Multiple Hollywood events and movie premieres were canceled, including:
    • Premieres for Better Man, Unstoppable, Wolf Man, and The Last Showgirl.
    • The Critics Choice Awards were postponed.
    • The BAFTA Tea Party was canceled.
  • Production of TV shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live, Grey’s Anatomy, Hacks, Ted Lasso, Suits LA, and others have been halted.
  • Universal Studios Hollywood closed for a day due to the fire conditions.

Cultural and Tourist Impacts

  • Several landmarks and attractions have been affected:
    • Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk were closed.
    • The Getty Villa and Getty Center museums were shut down temporarily.
    • Will Rogers’ historic ranch house was damaged.

The Hollywood Community in Crisis

The impact of the fires extends far beyond these high-profile names. Thousands of residents have been displaced, and entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble. The historic Topanga Ranch Motel and parts of Sunset Boulevard were also destroyed, underscoring the widespread nature of the devastation. Many other celebrities, including Mandy Moore, Diane Warren, and James Woods, are reportedly among those who may have their homes.

The Road to Recovery

The resilience of the Pacific Palisades community is undeniable, but the road ahead will be long and arduous. As families sift through the remnants of their lives, the focus shifts to rebuilding—not just homes, but a sense of normalcy and safety. For stars like Crystal and Hamill, their stories amplify the collective grief and resilience of a city that has weathered countless challenges, standing together in the face of loss.

Sources:

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