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Entertainment & Media

A collection of 126 issues

The Desperate Sketch That Became a Global Empire

Faced with losing ownership of his beloved comic strip 'Life in Hell,' cartoonist Matt Groening made a split-second decision in a producer's lobby. In just 15 minutes, he sketched a new, dysfunctional family to pitch instead—and The Simpsons were born.

Entertainment & Media Art, Culture & Design Biography & Personal Stories

More Than Clowns: The Militant March Behind the World's Most Famous Circus Tune

The iconic circus melody is actually "Entry of the Gladiators," a military march by Czech composer Julius Fučík from 1897. Intended to evoke Roman gladiators, its frantic tempo was adopted by circuses, forever linking the militant tune to clowns.

Music History Entertainment & Media

The Hit Tina Hated: The Unlikely Journey of 'What's Love Got To Do With It'

Before becoming Tina Turner's signature anthem, 'What's Love Got to Do with It' was rejected by stars like Cliff Richard and Donna Summer. It was even recorded by pop group Bucks Fizz before Turner's world-weary interpretation transformed it into a Grammy-winning classic.

Music History Entertainment & Media

Up, Up, Down, Down: The Rise and Fall of the Video Game Cheat Code

Originating as developer shortcuts for testing, cheat codes became a staple of gaming culture, offering players secret advantages. Their decline was driven by the rise of online multiplayer, achievement systems, and a shift towards monetized in-game advantages.

Technology & Innovation Entertainment & Media History

The Voice That Broke a Microphone: Ronnie James Dio's Legendary Tenacious D Cameo

When recording his cameo for Tenacious D's film, Ronnie James Dio faced a high-end vintage microphone. On his first take, his legendary voice was so powerful it blew out the mic's diaphragm. Unfazed, the professional rocker simply used his own personal mic.

Music Entertainment & Media Biography & Personal Stories

The Million-Pound Cough: Anatomy of the 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' Scandal

In 2001, Army Major Charles Ingram won £1 million on 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?', but his victory was a fraud. A pattern of coughs from an accomplice was found to be a code, guiding Ingram to the right answers. The prize was revoked, and all three were convicted.

Law, Crime & Justice Entertainment & Media History

The Dancer and the Deck: Fred Astaire's Surprising Skateboarding Passion

Renowned for his effortless grace, Fred Astaire's agility wasn't confined to the dance floor. At 77, the icon took up skateboarding after watching local kids. Despite breaking his wrist, his passion earned him a lifetime membership to the National Skateboard Society.

Biography & Personal Stories Oddities & Curiosities Entertainment & Media

The Internet's Phantom Actor: Christian Brando's Fictional Film Career

For over a decade, the internet incorrectly identified Christian Brando, a welder, as B-movie actor Gary Brown. This falsehood, born from a tabloid story and amplified by unverified citations in media and databases, serves as a classic case of citogenesis.

Entertainment & Media Biography & Personal Stories Oddities & Curiosities

The Ghost in the Machine: How TV Shows Maintain a Singular Vision with an Army of Directors

Ever wondered how a TV series maintains its look with different directors? The secret lies not in one person, but a creative hierarchy. The showrunner, DP, and production designer, guided by a detailed 'show bible,' ensure every director's work aligns, creating a seamless viewing experience.

Entertainment & Media Art, Culture & Design Work & Labor

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