‘X-Men' Star Alexandra Shipp on Being Reneé Rapp's ‘Sexy Lesbian Video Vixen' for ‘Mad': ‘A Dream Come True'
The actress — known for her work as Storm in 'X-Men: Apocalypse' as well as for roles in 'Straight Outta Compton,' 'Love, Simon' and 'tick, tick…BOOM!' — plays Rapp's love interest in the music video for her new single, 'Mad.'
More from Variety
Charlize Theron Fears 'Millions of People...Are Going to Die' Because of Foreign Aid Cuts
Katy O'Brian Says Sydney Sweeney 'Didn't Care' About Getting Hurt During Fight Scenes in Christy Martin Biopic: 'She Was Like, "If You Break My Nose, That's Fine"'
Emma Stone on Working With Joaquin Phoenix in 'Eddington' and That Viral Bee Incident With Pedro Pascal and Austin Butler at Cannes
'I'm in my video vixen era, and I'm living my best life,' Shipp told me Saturday at the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project Block Party fundraiser. 'There's a lot of things that I thought were going to be on my 2025 bingo card. Being a sexy lesbian video vixen was not on it. I am so honored to be a part of it. And I think that we definitely played off a very hot power couple.'
The video features Rapp singing to a seemingly pissed off Shipp at a hotel party. 'All of the time you wasted being mad / We could've been cute and we could've been stupid,' Rapp sings. 'Hey, you / All of the time, you wasted in your head / We could've been having sex.'
'Reneé is so warm and so loving that it was really fun to work with her,' Shipp said. 'I think it's just really great when wonderful people are so successful as well as talented…Already being a fan of hers and her asking me to do the music video, it felt like a dream come true. Plus, ain't nobody shooting anything right now, and to be able to collaborate with an artist who's down to collaborate and have fun, maybe that's what this is about.'
The release of the video happens to coincide with Pride month, so I asked Shipp, who came out as queer in 2021, if she could deliver a message to queer youth.
'I will fight for you. I will stand up for you. I will protest for you. I will rally for you. I will vote for you,' she said. 'I think that it is important that people come out and say, I not only am a member of the community, but I will fight for my community, tooth and nail, because I think it's important so to that next generation of little LGBTQ babies — know that I'm on your team, and there are a lot of people who are on your team, and we got you.'
Shipp also revealed that she recently wrote, directed, produced and starred in a short feature about her real-life best friend, a songwriter and single mom raising a child who is on the spectrum: 'I played the superhero before, but working on this short, I felt like I really played a superhero.'
MORE: LGBTQ Pride 2025 Celeb Photos
Best of Variety
New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week
Emmy Predictions: All 118 Categories Updated as Voting Opens With Tight Races and Major Shakeups
'Harry Potter' TV Show Cast Guide: Who's Who in Hogwarts?
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
26 minutes ago
- Yahoo
'Friends' Actress Tapped for Explosive Memoir Series, Fans Expect a 'Stellar Performance' Given Uncanny Real-Life Parallel
'Friends' Actress Tapped for Explosive Memoir Series, Fans Expect a 'Stellar Performance' Given Uncanny Real-Life Parallel originally appeared on Parade. Hollywood icon will star in Apple TV+'s upcoming series adaptation of Jennette McCurdy's explosive memoir, I'm Glad My Mom Died. The casting announcement has sent ripples through the entertainment world and social media, with fans immediately drawing parallels between Aniston's own well-documented relationship with her late mother and the series' deeply personal subject matter. McCurdy's memoir, which candidly details her tumultuous life as a child star on Nickelodeon's iCarly and her fraught, often abusive relationship with her mother, has captivated millions since its release. The book's raw honesty and challenging themes quickly made it a bestseller. Now, with Aniston stepping into a lead role, anticipation for the series has reached a fever pitch, particularly among those who have read McCurdy's powerful account. Reactions on Reddit highlight both the book's impact and the perceived suitability of Aniston for the project. "No one else would be allowed to make her story into a movie," one user commented, acknowledging McCurdy's involvement in the adaptation. They added, "And personally I'm not surprised, it's riveting and sad and there are lots of tragic biopics that get made. Movies like this do well." The raw emotional depth of the source material resonated deeply, with another fan sharing, "oof, this one's going to be a tough watch. reading it was hard enough. i'm firmly seated though!" Many online echoed the sentiment that Aniston's personal history makes her uniquely qualified for the role. "I have actually read the book Aniston's mom wrote about their relationship and all I can say is that Jennifer knows first hand what it's like to grow up with a mother who is a narcissist. I think she will do it justice," a Redditor wrote, referencing Nancy Dow's memoir about her relationship with Jennifer. Another added, "With Jen's own relationship with her mom….this is gonna be a stellar performance." The consensus among many is that Aniston's lived experience with a "tumultuous relationship with her emotionally abusive mother, that ended in no contact," will allow her to deliver a "fantastic" and nuanced performance. Fans also recalled Aniston's previous roles, noting her capacity to portray complex mother figures. "She was a great narcissistic mom in Dumplin, she really sold it and sold the redemption arch of the story. I'm actually excited to see her in this!" one comment highlighted. While some initially "did not picture her as the mother," many now believe she "can do it well." The series promises to be a powerful and potentially heart-wrenching viewing experience. "This book was an absolutely brutal read. I hope Jeanette makes bank," a fan expressed, reflecting the intense emotional journey the story presents. The casting of Aniston, a beloved figure with a deep understanding of the themes involved, suggests an adaptation poised for critical acclaim. "Best tactical move Jen has made in years," one user proclaimed, adding, "I'd just engrave the Emmy already," signaling high expectations for her performance and potential awards recognition. 'Friends' Actress Tapped for Explosive Memoir Series, Fans Expect a 'Stellar Performance' Given Uncanny Real-Life Parallel first appeared on Parade on Jul 1, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
26 minutes ago
- Yahoo
The new Miss Florida has ties to Gainesville. Here's what to know.
LAKELAND – The city of Gainesville has another champion to celebrate. After three nights of competition, showcasing talent, interview skills and community initiatives, Paris Richardson was crowned Miss Florida on June 28 night at the 2025 Miss Florida Scholarship Competition at the RP Funding Center. Richardson was the second Miss Gainesville to win the crown and the first since Marcia Crane earned the title in 1952. She will now represent the Sunshine State at Miss America in September. A 2020 graduate of Jean Ribault Senior High School in Jacksonville, Richardson, is a recent graduate of the University of Florida with a master's degree in health administration. The reigning Miss Gainesville, Richardson, was presented with her crown from 2024 Miss Florida winner Casana Fink and was awarded a $20,000 scholarship for her win. In the 2024 Miss Florida competition, Richardson was third runner-up as Miss Northeast Florida. In addition to this week's on-stage success, Richardson earned multiple scholarships during Miss Florida week, highlighted by winning the talent competition on night two with an inspirational acrobatic performance to Big Noise by Bette Midler. The former University of Florida cheerleader was also one of just four candidates to win two scholarships during the 2025 Scholarship Award Gala held at Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins in Auburndale on June 27. She was the recipient of the Women in Business ($500) and Miss Florida Marketing Plan ($1,000) scholarships. Richardson was one of 16 semifinalists announced at the beginning of the finals on June 28. The semifinalists presented their community service initiatives and went through the health and fitness portion of the program. The event concluded with the talent and evening gown competition, followed by an on-stage conversation with the 2003 Miss Florida winner and 2004 Miss America winner, Ericka Dunlop before the winner was announced. Richardson will use her platform as Miss Florida to expand the reach of her initiative, CROWN of Health, by collaborating with local schools, community organizations and healthcare professionals to promote wellness education and equitable access to healthcare through workshops, school visits, and community events, with hopes to equip individuals with the knowledge and resources necessary to make informed health decisions. Additionally, she intends to serve as a liaison between communities and healthcare providers, advocating for policies that address health disparities and promote inclusivity. Earlier in the evening, Noelle Schnacky, Miss Orlando's Teen, was named Miss Florida's Teen 2025 and will compete in the Miss America's Teen Competition. Noelle receives a $5,000 scholarship and full tuition to one of the following schools of higher education: Stetson, Florida Southern, Florida State University Panama City and Gulf Coast State College. Noelle, a native of Clermont, is a recent graduate of Lake Mineola High School and is enrolled at Lake Sumter State College, where she will receive her associate degree this summer. While at Lake Mineola, Noelle was a member of the girls' varsity lacrosse team, as well as the varsity cheer and competition cheer teams. She is also a Fellowship of Christian Athletes student leader and the recipient of the FCA Coaches Choice Awards in 2025. She will utilize her platform as Miss Florida's Teen to advance her community service initiative and 501(c)(3) organization, Hope for Heart Kids, which raises awareness of heart defects by building partnerships with all 15 major children's hospitals in Florida. Winner – Paris Richardson (Miss Gainesville) $20,000 Scholarship First Runner-Up – Anjelica Jones (Miss Jacksonville) $7,000 Scholarship Second Runner-Up – Halle Burton (Miss Florida Citrus) $6,000 Scholarship Third Runner-Up – Alexandra De Roos (Miss Tampa) $5,000 Scholarship Fourth Runner-Up – Megan Price (Miss Miami) $3,000 Scholarship Finalist – Mikayla Summerall (Miss Treasure Coast) Finalist – Carolina Schapanski (Miss Ocala) Finalist – Emma Manthos (Miss Ponte Vedra) Finalist – Bailee Perdue (Miss University of Florida) Finalist – Juliana Fray (Miss Hillsborough County) Finalist – Tia Unsell (Miss St. Augustine) Finalist – Jada Brown (Miss Polk County) Finalist – Bethany Worley (Miss Orlando) Finalist – Annie McGrath (Miss South Florida Fair) Finalist – Julia Roberson (Miss Sumpter County) Finalist – Briana Florexil (Miss City Beautiful) Winner – Noelle Schnacky (Miss Orlando) $5,000 Scholarship First Runner-Up – Kady McKenna (Miss Jacksonville's Teen) $1,500 Scholarship Second Runner-Up – Madison Pedreiro (Miss Ponte Vedra's Teen) $1,000 Scholarship Third Runner-Up – Nehyssa Turenne (Miss Northeast Florida's Teen) $600 Fourth Runner-Up – Milee Hasting (Miss Winter Park's Teen) $500 Finalist – Monica Kobeirowski (Miss Broward County's Teen) Finalist – Juliann Gill (Miss St. Augustine's Teen) Finalist – Ashlee Combee (Miss Gainesville's Teen) Finalist – Taylor Gregory (Miss Hillsborough County's Teen) Finalist – Annistyn Griffin (Miss Plant City's Teen) Finalist – Madison Anderer (Miss City Beautiful's Teen) Finalist – Janai Newball-Oladapo (Miss First Coast's Teen) Finalist – Vaishnavi Rednam (Miss Miami Beach's Teen) Finalist – Kenley McKenna (Miss South Florida's Teen) The winners of Miss Florida and Miss Florida's Teen will represent the state at the 2026 Miss America and Miss America's Teen competition in September at The Walt Disney Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts in Orlando. Miss America, founded in 1921, is the longest-running competition of its kind in the world. This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Miss Florida, Paris Richardson, a University of Florida grad
Yahoo
39 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Warner Music and Bain Capital Announce $1.2 Billion Joint Venture to Invest in Music Catalogs
Warner Music Group and Bain Capital are launching a joint venture to allow for the purchase of up to $1.2 billion in music catalogs across both recorded music and music publishing. The partnership was formed through equal equity commitments from WMG and Bain Capital. WMG and Bain will together source and acquire the catalogs, while WMG will manage all aspects of marketing, distribution, and administration. The deal combines WMG's infrastructure and relationships with Bain Capital's global resources and financial capabilities. More from Variety Warner Music Posts Tough Quarterly Earnings, Revenue Down 1% Warner Music Group Teams With Anjula Acharia on South Asian Music Label Music Industry Moves: Kobalt Partners With EDM Label Thrive Music While the volume of the catalog-acquisition boom around the turn of the last decade has slowed significantly, the size of the deals has not. In the past couple of years Sony has made enormous investments in Queen and Pink Floyd catalogs — $1.1 billion and $400 million respectively — while Primary Wave made a $100 million deal for 50% of Notorious B.I.G.'s holdings. Warner Chappell publishing recently made an undisclosed deal for Tom Petty's catalog. 'Iconic artists and songwriters choose WMG to grow their legacies and introduce their art to new generations through impactful and innovative campaigns,' said Robert Kyncl, CEO, Warner Music Group. 'Augmenting our deep expertise and global infrastructure with Bain Capital's financial prowess and belief in music will make us the destination of choice for preeminent catalogs.' 'Timeless music content continues to sit at the center of consumer entertainment,' said Angelo Rufino, a Partner at Bain Capital. 'Stewardship of catalogs has never been more important as artists and songwriters deserve support to enhance the value of their work while delivering fans new and exciting collaborations. Warner Music Group, with its deep creative resources and partnership culture, is the ideal partner for Bain Capital to work alongside as we grow and safeguard the world's iconic music.' Goldman Sachs and Fifth Third Bank will serve as joint lead arrangers to the joint venture. Best of Variety Oscars 2026: George Clooney, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts, Wagner Moura and More Among Early Contenders to Watch New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week 'Harry Potter' TV Show Cast Guide: Who's Who in Hogwarts? Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
