The Daily Dot https://dailydot.com/ The Daily Dot | Your Internet. Your Internet news. Mon, 16 Mar 2026 21:31:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.5 https://lede-admin.dailydot.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/69/2025/04/cropped-28j2UYDp-cropped-favicon.png?w=32 The Daily Dot https://dailydot.com/ 32 32 250640320 “Always speaking truth”: Jane Fonda’s stand against the Paramount/Warner Bros. merger includes the ultimate flex—her ex-husband https://dailydot.com/jane-fondas-paramount-wb-merger/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030573 "I endorse Fonda and her efforts to block this rotten merger."

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Always speaking truth”: Jane Fonda’s stand against the Paramount/Warner Bros. merger includes the ultimate flex—her ex-husband appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
Jane Fonda is taking a stand against the Paramount/Warner Bros. merger.

Paramount recently beat Netflix to buy Warner Bros. The merger has industry people nervous for several reasons. Generally, the merging of two major companies could result in many job losses.

However, the real threat to Paramount lies with the Ellison family. David Ellison serves as Chairman and CEO of Paramount, which means his family controls TikTok and CBS News. With Warner Bros, they will also run CNN. The Ellisons are allies of Trump, and there is concern that America is heading in the direction of state-run media.

What Fonda said

As for Fonda, the iconic actress attended the Academy Awards last night, rocking a “Block the Merger” pin. Fonda was also against the merger when Netflix was expected to take over, fearing that it would mark the end of movie theaters. While that certainly would have created another unfortunate set of problems, Paramount winning the bid is decidedly worse.

Fonda has always been an outspoken activist, so it’s no surprise to see her taking a stand on the red carpet. She also made a hilarious joke about the fact that she used to be married to Ted Turner, the founder of CNN.

@Variety/X

“The mergers are going to be bad for workers. A lot of people are going to lose their jobs. We’re going to have higher prices. We’re going to have political control of what we do. That’s why Pete Hegseth said, ‘CNN can’t come soon enough’ to be under the control of Paramount. We know Trump wants to hurt… I mean, I slept with the guy who created CNN! I have a personal stake in it,” Fonda shared.

“[CNN] did not take positions. It reported the news. To see what’s happening now… we have to stop [it]… This pin is any merger, but the Paramount merger is really problematic. In order to get the permission to do the merger, they felt they had to cave to what Trump wanted. But we’re going to win,” she added.

Fans react to Jane Fonda at the Oscars

Fans of Fonda love that she’s still taking a stand against injustices at the age of 88. Many people took to social media to comment on her interview and “Block the Merger” pin.

“I endorse Fonda and her efforts to block this rotten merger,” u/Secure_Matter_9819 wrote on Reddit.

“Queen!! Always speaking truth!” @DC4Hope commented on X.

“Jane Fonda didn’t just show up to party—she showed up to protest, turning a red carpet moment into a full-on call for media and corporate accountability. Mergers may be business deals, but she’s framing them as worker, consumer, and press issues all rolled into one,” @SKithiyon56925 pointed out.

“Jane wearing ‘Block the Merger’ pin validates activism at awards. Media consolidation concerns plus industry wins timing hits relevant. That’s the activism moment,” @LarrryOmooba added.

“’I slept with the guy who created it’ is the ultimate flex,” @EricMGarcia shared.

Meanwhile, Fonda was also unhappy that Barbra Streisand was the one who got to speak about Robert Redford during the “In Memorium” segment.


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Always speaking truth”: Jane Fonda’s stand against the Paramount/Warner Bros. merger includes the ultimate flex—her ex-husband appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030573
“Cleaning up after yourself is just like basic politeness”: Reporter shows the mess left behind at the Oscars https://dailydot.com/reporter-shows-the-mess-left-behind-at-the-oscars/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 20:56:48 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030597 Celebrities, they're just like us... messy!

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Cleaning up after yourself is just like basic politeness”: Reporter shows the mess left behind at the Oscars appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
It turns out the Dolby Theater, home to the Oscars, is just like regular movie theaters: people leave their garbage behind without a second thought there, too.

The 98th Academy Awards took place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday. It was a big night for many stars, with One Battle After Another taking home the prize for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Meanwhile, Sinners won Best Actor, Best Cinematography, Best Score, and Best Original Screenplay.

ABC

If you were watching on TV, the whole event probably seemed quite glamorous.

However, the audience left behind a mess. Next Best Picture’s Matt Neglia shared a behind-the-scenes look at the trash that was left at the theatre, and it’s worse than you’d think.

Clearly, the people in attendance at the Academy Awards had no interest in throwing away their trash. Everyone in the audience was given a little snack pack that included Skinny Pop popcorn, water, and a box of candy.

Film fans react to messy Oscars photo

While some people online are appalled by how many people left their garbage behind, others are pointing out that the photo was taken from the balcony seats. That means the celebrities may not be to blame.

“The kind of people who expect others to clean up after them. Unseen and unthanked,” @Stretchedwiener wrote on X.

“Rich people leaving their dirt for poor people as always,” @big_SAUCEEY added.

“This isn’t where the celebrities and stars sit, correct? This is the family, general audiences, general academy member seating area, correct?” @OutOfWoodsClear added.

“Sometimes people close to celebs/important people are more entitled than the actual talent,” u/External_Two2928 said on Reddit.

“Honestly, cleaning up after yourself is just like basic politeness,” u/seeshellsbythesea wrote.

“Spoiled celebs? This is what a lot of theaters look like after people leave. This isn’t a celeb issue, it’s an American culture one,” u/Ok_Builder_4225 pointed out.

“Always been. I worked at a theater 30 years ago, and I’ve seen much worse than this,” u/throwaway5882300 shared.

“The irony of Hollywood preaching sustainability while leaving a literal landfill behind is peak hypocrisy—some things never change, even if the red carpet does,” @mgyaldiz posted.


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Cleaning up after yourself is just like basic politeness”: Reporter shows the mess left behind at the Oscars appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030597
“Masterful”: Misty Copeland performed at the Oscars—here’s how it ties in to Timothee’s controversial comments https://dailydot.com/misty-copeland-oscars-timothee-ballet-comments/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 20:00:00 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030556 "Misty Copeland just reminded everyone why ballet still belongs on the biggest stages."

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Masterful”: Misty Copeland performed at the Oscars—here’s how it ties in to Timothee’s controversial comments appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
Misty Copeland danced at the Oscars, which came amid Timothée Chalamet’s controversial comments about ballet and opera.

The famous ballet dancer took part in the beautiful performance of “I Lied To You,” the Oscar-nominated song from Sinners. She took the stage with nominees Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq, along with Eric Gales, Buddy Guy, Brittany Howard, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Jayme Lawson, Li Jun Li, Bobby Rush, Shaboozey, and Alice Smith.

What did Misty Copeland say about Timothée Chalamet?

While on his Oscars campaign trail for Marty Supreme, Chalamet went viral for saying ballet and opera were art forms “no one cares about this anymore.” He received an intense amount of backlash, and Copeland commented on the story while speaking on a panel in New York.

CBS News

“First I have to say that it’s very interesting that he invited me to be a part of promoting Marty Supreme with respect to my art form,” Copeland said, adding, “I think that it’s important that we acknowledge that, yes, this is an art form that’s not ‘popular’ and a part of pop culture as movies are. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have enduring relevance in culture.”

Fans react to Misty Copeland’s Oscars performance

People loved watching Copeland take the stage at the Oscars. While some folks have been joking that she only joined the performance as a slight on Chalamet, others are pointing out that it was probably already planned.

Either way, she rocked the stage, and fans are impressed. Copeland recently retired and had hip surgery, which makes the performance all the more impressive.

“Folks, is there a ballerina in Sinners? She’s there not to throw shade at anyone but to represent the presence and influence of Black Americans in the arts and culture in a movie that celebrates that,” @M3T1CULOSO added.

“If I were Chalamet, I’d rest the image for at least a year. It got ugly for him,” @brubiis__ suggested.

“Thanks to Timothée, they’ve returned to popularity, and many people are already attending the opera and ballet more,” @PedroDenisAbre2 pointed out.

“Misty Copeland just reminded everyone why ballet still belongs on the biggest stages. Masterful. Timothée caught in 4K looking like he’s rethinking his life choices,” @savvyonchain wrote.

“That Misty Copeland ballet interlude during ‘I Lied To You’ is breathtaking—graceful pointe work weaving through the fiery, soulful musical chaos. Stunning fusion of classical dance and cinematic energy; chills!” @victorizzov posted.


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Masterful”: Misty Copeland performed at the Oscars—here’s how it ties in to Timothee’s controversial comments appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030556
“The final straw”: AI bots crash popular astrology site AstroSeek https://dailydot.com/ai-bots-crash-astrology-site-astroseek/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 19:05:40 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030534 During Mercury Retrograde, no less.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “The final straw”: AI bots crash popular astrology site AstroSeek appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
The astrology babes are suffering under the latest Mercury retrograde as the free planetary tracker site AstroSeek struggles with bots. Data-scraping programs shut down the platform for at least a couple of days, prompting the site to notify users that it had been “flooded by AI” and that it was closing to all but registered users.

However, it looks like AstroSeek might have invited this flood to its own doorstep despite the status of Mercury right now.

Astrology site breaks during Mercury retrograde

Astrology fans started crashing out last week after a “server overload” notice appeared on AstroSeek, announcing that bots had made the site inaccessible. While registered users could log in to access its tools, the platform has long been known as a free and extensive astrology resource that doesn’t require an account.

This turned a whole new group of folks against AI.

“AI taking AstroSeek is the final straw, bro, wtf,” wrote @pixelangel69 on X.

Whether they’re against AI or not, much of the community had a bad time for a minute there.

“Check in on your astrology hoes because it’s over,” said TikToker @tanglet911. “It’s over for them.”

Tweet reading "Happy Mercury [redacted] Retrograde" with an AstroSeek website notice screenshot and a gif of a woman screaming.
@TheScorpioMC/X

“Happy Mercury F****** Retrograde,” said @TheScorpioMC.

When Mercury is in retrograde, according to Parade, the best laid plans tend to fall apart. This is particularly true with technological issues.

You’d think that the owner of AstroSeek would have known better than to mess with AI ahead of this season, but according to angry fans, he didn’t.

“You invited the AI bots”

In the days following the shutdown announcement, astrologers found a new feature on their go-to website—a ChatGPT “Astrology Data Export” tool.

“This astrology tool calculates birth chart positions (Planets, Signs, Degrees, Houses, Aspects) and provides them in simple text format that can be used in ChatGPT prompts or other Astrology AI,” the description reads.

Fans accused AstroSeek of bringing this debacle upon itself.

Tweet reading "Looks like this is fully on you @astroseekcom . You invited the AI Bots and now youre crying."
@TheScorpioMC/X

“Looks like this is fully on you @astroseekcom,” said @TheScorpioMC. “You invited the AI Bots, and now you’re crying.”

Some commenters rejected the idea that a data exporter—even one catering to a specific chatbot—could have invited them. As the site states, it only creates a simplified version of a person’s chart to feed to their AI of choice. Others claimed the tool had been on AstroSeek long before the server crash.

As of Monday, the site appears to be fully operational once more, complete with the ChatGPT export tool. While the AI haters may have turned on AstroSeek, some dedicated fans are asking others for patience.

@ziggyastrology

If you don’t have an account, you’ll have to try to register and pray that it lets you through! I know this is so annoying, but I ask that you do your best to stay loyal to a man who has done so much for the astrological community for free! For over a decade! #astrology

♬ original sound – Ziggy Astrology

“Be patient with him,” said @ziggyastrology, speaking of the site’s owner. “He has been incredible for us. He has done wonders for the astrology community.”

That may be true, but some are still seeing “ChatGPT” on the site and deleting their accounts.

Tweet with a screenshot of a notice confirming that an account has been permanently deleted.
@carterhopesarah/X


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “The final straw”: AI bots crash popular astrology site AstroSeek appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030534
“A TRUE Kennedy”: RFK Jr.’s cousin Jack Schlossberg discusses whether the HHS secretary is a “never-nude” https://dailydot.com/jack-schlossberg-rfk-jr-never-nude-arrested-development/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:00:00 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030522 "Thanksgiving must be so awkward at the Kennedy compound."

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “A TRUE Kennedy”: RFK Jr.’s cousin Jack Schlossberg discusses whether the HHS secretary is a “never-nude” appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
Democratic candidate Jack Schlossberg is once again dragging his cousin, Health Secretary Robert. F Kennedy Jr., for being so very weird. With an image from that bizarre workout video with Kid Rock, Jeremy Jacobowitz of The Brunch Boys asked him if RFK Jr. is a “never-nude.”

Schlossberg had a lot of burns to get in around the answer.

Does RFK Jr. ever take off the jeans?

The current Health and Human Services head gained a reputation for being a massive weirdo in the months before the 2024 election. Stories about him picking up dead animals wherever he found them to eat later flooded the internet, but President Donald Trump put him in charge of health stuff anyway.

He confirmed the weirdness allegations in February by hanging out in the sauna in blue jeans with an aging rap-rocker. He didn’t even change into a swimsuit for the hot tub or the pool.

This led food influencer Jacobowitz to ask RFK Jr.’s least favorite cousin if the milk lover is a “never-nude.”

The term “never-nude” comes from the hit 2000s comedy series Arrested Development, which centers on a fictional, wealthy family that is also highly weird. One member calls himself a “never-nude,” meaning he has a pathological fear of getting completely naked, showering in denim cutoff shorts.

You can see how Jacobowitz drew the comparison.

Who is Jack Schlossberg and how does he feel about RFK Jr.?

Jack Schlossberg gained attention in 2024 for speaking out against his cousin when RFK Jr. was still running as an independent for the U.S. presidency. He accused the older family member of “trading in on Camelot, celebrity, conspiracy theories, and conflict for personal gain and fame.”

He also did a series of silly, shirtless TikTok videos mocking his cousin.

@whatsyourbagelorder

getting to the bottom of things with @Jack Schlossberg

♬ original sound – What Is Your Bagel Order?

In this latest appearance, as he runs to represent New York’s 12th district in the U.S. House of Representatives, Schlossberg could only say “I don’t know” about the never-nude allegations—but had more thoughts to share.

“RFK Jr. is a danger to public health,” he said. “He is a [chronic] liar, an antisemite, and somebody who blamed the Jews for COVID.”

“Blood is on his hands for the measles outbreak that is the highest we’ve had in 40 years.”

“Literally his relative saying this”

Critics of RFK Jr. love it when his family speaks out against him, which has been a significant driver of Schlossberg’s campaign. On TikTok, commenters are once again lavishing praise upon a representative of a new generation of Kennedys.

“Jack is a TRUE Kennedy,” wrote @sisu44444.

TikTok comments including one reading "Jack is a TRUE Kennedy."
@whatsyourbagelorder/TikTok

“Literally his relative saying this, btw,” @jbelle2323 reminded everyone. “So on board with Jack!”

“I absolutely love Jack Schlossberg, the only politician I actually think would make a positive difference,” said @rosewatchingtiktok.

Of course, some are watching less for the politics and more for the family drama.

TikTok comments including one reading "Thanksgiving must be so awkward at the Kennedy compound."
@whatsyourbagelorder/TikTok

“Thanksgiving must be so awkward at the Kennedy compound,” wrote @shalompeace619.


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “A TRUE Kennedy”: RFK Jr.’s cousin Jack Schlossberg discusses whether the HHS secretary is a “never-nude” appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030522
“Make more whimsical tech”: What is a Cyberdeck, and how do you make one? https://dailydot.com/what-is-a-cyberdeck-and-how-do-you-make-one/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030119 "Whatever that is, I need one."

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Make more whimsical tech”: What is a Cyberdeck, and how do you make one? appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
In the age of AI and online surveillance, cyberpunks are creating “cyberdecks”: homemade, portable computers out of big tech’s reach.

Though many new tech tools are shaping the world’s digital future, one is driving users back to the past: a time when a simpler, less corporatized, and aggressively monitored online reality once existed.

It’s called the cyberdeck, and it’s a way fringe and anti-establishment engineers and cyberpunks are creating a digital identity all their own.

@ubeboobey/TikTok

What is a cyberdeck?

First coined by William Gibson in his 1984 sci-fi novel Neuromancer, the term refers to a homemade, portable computer used to access an online interface.

Since its mention in the dystopian novel, cyberdecks have been a staple of the cyberpunk genre and aesthetic.

@ubeboobey

Replying to @??? This is what inspired me and my process of building my own! #cyberpunk #raspberrypi #technology #fory

♬ original sound – ??????❄

How do you build one?

Building a cyberdeck can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be, and as individualized and personalized as the engineer would like. The most basic configuration includes four components:

  1. The “brains” (CPU, RAM, repurposed laptop/mini pc motherboards—a simple SBC like the Raspberry Pi is a popular choice)
  2. An input device (like a keyboard or mouse)
  3. A screen.
  4. An enclosure or case to put the three parts.
@ubeboobey

PART 2 of the Neo Futurism cyberdeck! Just hooked up the bare bones of the laptop together, much more to come later. #raspberrypi #technology #cyberpunk #electronics #futuristic

♬ Sade Like A Tattoo (Skep’s Jungle Edit) – Skep

Why are people building them now?

In the early 2020s, tech overreach was at an all-time high. The construction of cyberdecks became a way to combat the unbounded corporatization, invasiveness, and homogeneity of widespread tech, in addition to individualizing the tech experience according to a user’s aesthetic.

@just.ohl/TikTok

“Whatever that is, I need one”

On Reddit and TikTok, users like @ubeboobey would share their cyberdeck journeys—including finding a case, creating a style, and making the technology all work together.

Users on both platforms embraced the individualism and beauty of the cyberdeck.

“Just feels right for some reason,” one comment read.

“Whatever that is, I need one,” said another.

“This is the future I was promised as a little girl,” still another comment read.

According to the cyberdeck movement, the future promised as a little girl…starts right now.

@ubeboobey

make more whimsical tech, since technology is taking over more and more of our lives why not make it look cute? #fyp #raspberrypi #cyberpunk #pc #pcbuild

♬ world without words – Nujabes

The Daily Dot has reached out to @ubeboobey via direct message on TikTok and Instagram. The creator did not immediately respond to the request for comment.


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Make more whimsical tech”: What is a Cyberdeck, and how do you make one? appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030119
MAHA gets an “SNL” sketch inspired by “The Pitt” and the state of American healthcare: “MAHAspital” https://dailydot.com/maha-snl-sketch-the-pitt-american-healthcare/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030482 "This almost doesn’t feel like a parody."

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post MAHA gets an “SNL” sketch inspired by “The Pitt” and the state of American healthcare: “MAHAspital” appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
Harry Styles returned to host (and musical guest) Saturday Night Live this weekend, and the show turned its attention to the Make America Healthy Again crowd. The prerecorded sketch imagined their ideas, both real and imagined, inside a chaotic hospital ward à la The Pitt from HBO Max.

Two men in fake PPE, the one with blue gloves gesturing with one hand while giving an order for fake medicine.
Saturday Night Live/YouTube

The sketch mocked anti-vax and anti-Tylenol rhetoric

Styles played a serious, overworked doctor modeled after the show’s lead, whose team treated patients with remedies pulled from MAHA-esque talking points. Doctors confidently ordered “60cc of bull semen” and gave patients prescriptions for some of the most ridiculous things, like crystals and steak, as if they were standard care.

An open drawer filled with crystals, a woman's arm reaching in to grab one.
Saturday Night Live/YouTube

Meanwhile, the sketch escalated with each patient interaction, from forbidding real medicine in the hospital to one character, played by Ben Marshall, sharing that his parents had died of the COVID vaccine. Not because they’d gotten it but because, he said, “I found out they got it and I shot them.”

One doctor pulled out a bottle of Tylenol during treatment, a tongue-in-cheek reference to RFK Jr’s false claims that pregnant people who took Tylenol caused autism in their children. Marshall’s character shouted, “Not in my hospital!” and immediately slapped the bottle from his hand.

A man with grey hair and a fake muscle suit and no shirt parodying RFK Jr. squinting as he pushes a gurney into a fake hospital.
Saturday Night Live/YouTube

Later, the sketch also brought in James Austin Johnson to impersonate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a shirtless, demanding fitness coach rather than a health official. He called out orders to the medical staff and then demanded they stop everything to work out.

Viewers compared the sketch to other late-night jokes

Some viewers with healthcare experience said the parody felt especially sharp.

@freakyjezebe wrote, “As someone who works in ER, that Maha sketch is so hilarious I’ve been repeating it.”

Others argued the satire almost felt too close to reality. For instance, @benmeyerink posted, “This almost doesn’t feel like a parody. Well done SNL. #MAHA.”

However, a few viewers pointed out that similar jokes had already appeared elsewhere. One commenter, @I_am_da_BOM, wrote, “Y’all just stealing jokes now?! The Daily Show did the exact same bit 3 months ago.”

They shared a screenshot referencing a similar segment from The Daily Show.

Still, another person pushed back on the accusation. They replied, “I don’t know if I’d consider it stealing. I mean, Daily Show & all the late shows riff on the same headlines & sometimes do similar jokes. I liked both versions of this because I like to see different documentaries on same subject.”


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post MAHA gets an “SNL” sketch inspired by “The Pitt” and the state of American healthcare: “MAHAspital” appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030482
Conan O’Brien challenged Leonardo DiCaprio to make a meme on the spot at the Oscars. He nailed it https://dailydot.com/leonardo-dicaprio-meme-on-the-spot-at-the-oscars/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:40:29 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030473 Oscars host Conan O'Brien called DiCaprio the "king of memes."

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post Conan O’Brien challenged Leonardo DiCaprio to make a meme on the spot at the Oscars. He nailed it appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
Leonardo DiCaprio knows how to make a good meme. But those of us who are chronically online already knew that, of course.

At the 2026 Oscars, DiCaprio made a meme live on the spot when he was called out by the show’s host, Conan O’Brien, in the first few minutes of the show.

During O’Brien’s opening monologue, he referenced all the great memes that have been clipped from DiCaprio’s movies, like The Great Gatsby and Django Unchained.

ABC

“He’s the star of so many movies and the king of memes. He’s the king of memes, this guy,” O’Brien said while talking to a seated DiCaprio in the crowd.

O’Brien then asked DiCaprio if he could “make a new meme” right now. He asked the One Battle After Another star to show what that feeling looks like when “you didn’t agree to this.”

DiCaprio, who was sporting a black and white suit, then turned to the camera and gave an awkward smile.

ABC

Fans appreciated the meme moment

His reaction was met with many laughs, including those from viewers at home.

“Do you have any idea how mad I am that he [expletive] nailed it? This violates all laws of memeology.. Memetaphysics,” one person said about the moment on X.

Another shared the loudly crying face emoji and said, “Bro, that energy is peak meme crisis.”

Another added, “Honestly, the way he broke the fourth wall while doing it makes it even more illegal.”

Someone else called DiCaprio a “meme legend,” while another said he was “legendary” for doing that right on the spot.

DiCaprio’s Oscar moment comes after he went viral at the 2026 Golden Globes for creating a “hundred memes in 30 seconds.”

During a commercial break, the Wolf of Wall Street actor was seen making a lot of facial expressions when he talked to someone nearby. During the interaction, which was captured without audio, DiCaprio smiled and mouthed words while making multiple hand gestures.

The moment was shared on TikTok. In the comments, a fan joked that DiCaprio “created (a) hundred memes in 30sec” in that video.

“Dude just showed his acting range while sitting on the table at the Globes 😂,” another said.

A third added, “For me, Leonardo DiCaprio is the greatest actor.”

At the 2026 Oscars, DiCaprio lost in his category for best actor in a leading role to “Sinners” star Michael B. Jordan. Jordan, who won his first Academy Award that night, later gave DiCaprio a big hug after his acceptance speech.

The moment was caught on camera and shared on X.

“Seeing actors respect each other like this is always cool,” someone said.

Another wrote, “A powerful moment, respect from legends makes the win even more meaningful.”


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post Conan O’Brien challenged Leonardo DiCaprio to make a meme on the spot at the Oscars. He nailed it appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030473
“Rancid work”: Fans react with shock and sorrow after Hulu cancels “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” revival https://dailydot.com/hulu-canceled-buffy-the-vampire-slayer-revival-reactions/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030461 "I *desperately* want to know what went on behind the scenes."

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Rancid work”: Fans react with shock and sorrow after Hulu cancels “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” revival appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
Fans of the supernatural classic waited for updates on a planned revival of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, only to learn over the weekend that Hulu decided not to move forward with its reboot project.

It was going to star and be executive-produced by Sarah Michelle Gellar. She shared the difficult news with fans on Instagram on Saturday, March 14.

The announcement quickly sparked a wave of reactions online. Fans questioned the decision and debated what might have happened behind the scenes, all while calling for other streaming services to pick up the project.

Tweet from Hulu that reads, "Who’s the most chaotic character currently on your screen?" with a response that says, "You all have a lot of nerve posting this after pulling the Buffy reboot."
@dcsteve5/X

What happened to the Buffy reboot

The reboot was in development for the past year, and Hulu ordered a pilot of the project, which was tentatively titled Buffy: New Sunnydale.

The project had notable talent attached, with Oscar-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao signed on to direct the pilot. Meanwhile, writers Nora and Lilla Zuckerman, known for work on Poker Face, wrote the script.

20th Century Fox Television

Still, reports suggested the pilot struggled creatively, with some saying that Zhao wasn’t the right fit for the project. This news came at the same time that Zhao’s latest film, Hamnet, earned eight Oscar nominations. Lead actress Jessie Buckley won best actress for her performance in the film on Sunday.

Fans reacted online with frustration and sadness

Soon after the announcement, fans and TV watchers began sharing their reactions on social media.

@sagesurge summarized the situation, writing, “Hulu has opted not to proceed w/ its Buffy reboot, starring & executive produced by Sarah Michelle Gellar […] Sources described it as ‘not perfect,’ noting, Zhao’s sensibility is not a perfect match for the reboot.”

Tweet that reads, "Even with a pilot directed by a Chloe Zhao, who is currently competing for Best Director, DOA. It must have been rancid work."
@GentleDoofus/X

Others focused on Gellar’s post-Buffy career. @seaofbelIs wrote, “Sarah Michelle Gellar is kind of cursed when it comes to TV shows post-Buffy. How can we fix this? I want to see her in things.”

Tweet that reads, "Words can’t express how devastated I am to hear this. I truly hope it’s one of those everything happens for a reason situations, maybe another studio will pick it up and it’ll be even better 🙏🥺. SMG and Buffy fans deserve the best!"
@ScoobyScream/X

Meanwhile, @TVTweets2026 shared a video from new Slayer actress Ryan Kiera Armstrong reacting to the cancellation. They added, “I am so heartbroken for her and for all the Buffy fans that have been waiting for the Buffyverse to continue for 20 years.”

Some people questioned Hulu’s decision-making process. @aedison wrote, “I am having a hard time imagining how bad this must’ve turned out for Hulu to say no to easy revivalslop.”

Tweet that reads, "This was such a dumb move @hulu @disney #buffythevampireslayer is a beloved cross generational treasure. Sarah agreed to come back. And things take time. If the pilot wasn't good enough you keep working. Order more scripts. So disappointed."
@TimothyDowling/X

Similarly, @TomBradyEgo asked why studios announce revivals before they fully commit. “Why do they tease a revival of a series just to take it back and disappoint us?”

Tweet that reads, "I *desperately* want to know what went on behind the scenes for this to be cancelled after there was so much song and dance about it"
@pestowitch/X

However, not every reaction was purely negative. A few viewers speculated the show might find a new home. For instance, @officeofcrumbum wrote, “Somebody else should pick this up. Maybe rework the story.”

Tweet that reads, "To me, this shows a version of pilot season is coming back. Making a pilot, testing it, seeing it before committing to a full season.  Could be healthy."
@BenDaves3/X

Others argued the original series may be difficult to replicate. @CentipedeMouse wrote that the show came from “an extremely specific time and place.”

Still, some fans remained hopeful. @BrianBryson20 pointed out that the original Game of Thrones pilot was reportedly poor before it was heavily reworked.


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Rancid work”: Fans react with shock and sorrow after Hulu cancels “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” revival appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030461
“Cautiously optimistic”: Nathan Fillion confirms an animated “Firefly” project is in development https://dailydot.com/nathan-fillion-confirms-animated-firefly-project/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:44:17 +0000 https://dailydot.com/?p=2030453 "The best case scenario for what they were teasing as far as actually giving us new Firefly content."

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Cautiously optimistic”: Nathan Fillion confirms an animated “Firefly” project is in development appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
Fans have finally learned what Nathan Fillion had been hinting at for weeks. During a panel at Washington, D.C.’s Awesome Con, the actor revealed that an animated Firefly series was already deep in development.

The announcement happened during a live taping of Fillion and Alan Tudyk’s Once We Were Spacemen podcast. Several former cast members joined them onstage for the podcast recording.

Tweet that reads, "I'm thinkin we'll rise again" with a GIF of three members of the crew of Serenity standing in front of the ship as it rises up from the canyon behind them.
@BillingsRaiders/X

Starting on Feb 23, the podcast had been teasing something to do with the space cowboy show, with Fillion knocking on former costars’ doors and telling them that “it’s time.” The posts garnered much speculation as more videos came out, culminating in the Awesome Con announcement on March 15.

What the new Firefly project involves

Fillion explained at the convention that the animated revival was being produced through his company, Collision33. The studio partnered with 20th Television Animation, which holds the Firefly franchise rights.

Meanwhile, most of the original crew planned to return as voice actors. Fillion, Tudyk, Gina Torres, Jewel Staite, Morena Baccarin, Sean Maher, Summer Glau, and Adam Baldwin are all expected to return to the crew. Sadly, Ron Glass passed away in 2016. Fillion revealed that the animated series would take place between the events of the original 2002 show and the Serenity movie.

Importantly to many, given the lengthy allegations against him, Joss Whedon has no creative stake in the show, although Fillion noted he approved of the project. Instead, Marc Guggenheim and Tara Butters are the showrunners and have already finished a script, though how much has not been revealed.

Fillion framed the revival as a long-overdue return. He told Deadline, “The dedication of Firefly fans has kept this 25-year-old show relevant. Clearly, the return of Firefly is something the fans want. More importantly, it’s something they deserve.”

Online reactions ranged from excitement to skepticism

Soon after the reveal spread online, reactions split across several camps. Some viewers welcomed the animated format because it allowed the original cast to return without a live-action time jump.

“I just love how much passion they all have for this!” @KhellanKnight tweeted. They added that animation could continue storylines “instead of having to do a ‘Twenty(+) years into the life…” Gilmore Girls-esque live action sequel.”

Others pointed out the practical side of that choice. “People saying this should be live action seem to be ignoring it’s been 20 years for these actors,” @ogorangebird wrote.

Tweet that reads, "Let’s be real a second
Is an animated series what we want? Oh Gods no.
BUT… it’s been 20+ years since Firefly.
No one looks like they did in their 20s/30s. And while we could all politely suspend our disbelief and say 'oh, it was only 10 year after…' we’d be lying…"
@AuthorKRPaul/X

Still, some viewers remained skeptical about new installments tied to older franchises. “I have ZERO faith after what happened to [the reboot of] Buffy,” @DarkwingProdigy posted.

Yet many fans seemed cautiously hopeful. “Hey, this is cool and the best case scenario for what they were teasing as far as actually giving us new Firefly content,” @TheEricGoldman wrote.

Tweet that reads, "Oooh. Animation is a great way to get around the age of the actors. Just hope the animation style is good."
@Floki_Vt/X

Some also focused on the writers attached to the series. @ViewerAnon posted, “Tara Butters at least wrote on Dollhouse so she gets the Whedon-y voice.”

Tweet that reads, "D*mn, been actually saying that it's too late for a revival and an animated show makes more sense.
I hope it's good. Glad Whedon is not involved. 
I was a huge Firefly fan. Haven't thought about the show in so long."
@Sawyer_DAA/X

“Cautiously optimistic, just really hoping the writing is there,” @DT2ComicsChat added.


The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s newsletter here.

Sign up to receive the Daily Dot’s Internet Insider newsletter for urgent news from the frontline of online.

The post “Cautiously optimistic”: Nathan Fillion confirms an animated “Firefly” project is in development appeared first on The Daily Dot.

]]>
2030453