Latest news with #Hondo
Gizmodo
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Gizmodo
Disney Parks Animatronics, Rated Yearbook-Style
Walt Disney is just the latest animatronic to be featured in Disney Parks' experiences and attractions. The figure debuted for Disneyland's 70th birthday at the Main Street Opera House, headlining a new show. In Walt Disney – A Magical Life, you can come face-to-face with the man behind the name, programmed to present his history as Imagineering's latest tech feat. The figure joins the legacy of Disney's contribution to theme park advancements, combining animation and robotics for his animatronics, which started with a bird and now bears the face of its creator. And he's not the only memorable animatronic to grace Disney Parks with his presence. Here are some other notable entries, with yearbook-style superlatives to explain the impressions they make. He's always getting unsuspecting tourists to do coaxium runs for him on the Millennium Falcon. If you're not careful, you'll land on the First Order's suspect list. And unfortunately, if that happens, Hondo might be MIA, just as his animatronic so often is. And only after they try to follow you home first, like the Hitchhiking Ghosts. Dr. Jones spends the entire ride complaining that he has to save our skins; it's glorious. Plus he's the original stuntronic, always having to dangle in front of that incoming boulder. The lore behind her soft-serve-ice-cream-looking hair of yesteryear haunts the internet; we're glad she was able to get her look fixed. Seeing Tiana in her mother's fashions and iconic 1920s New Orleans textiles and textures makes this our pick for best dressed. That goes for the rest of the characters too, especially once the ride gets to its showstopping finale. That Figment, always up to some nonsense, but at least he's full of imagination and lots of surprising sights and smells to discover. It's no contest; being able to meet and greet an interactive Baby Yoda who makes the noises makes us want to protect him at all costs too. Yeah—more like succeeding in leading the animatronic uprising for having to sing that earworm of a song for 70 years. Geoffrey Rush's iconic performance as Captain Barbossa also got its own animatronic inside Disneyland's Pirates of the Caribbean and fits right in so well, many don't realize he's being featured. The real pirate's pirate, our apple-a-day king—he's just missing the monkey, Jack. That's one very realistic animatronic. And like in the Avatar movies, it sees you. They're the OG blueprint of the animatronics, so we'll allow it for another 70 years at least. Spidey does the flips in one of the most thrilling moments at Avengers Campus, where the 'struntronic' flies through the sky before an actor takes over the performance! Even more excitingly, sometimes the robot webslinger misses. This goat is the 'GOAT' 🐐 #Disney #DisneyParks #DisneyWorld #BigThunderMountain #GoatTrick #Goat #Rollercoaster #Coaster #Disney100 ♬ original sound – Disney Parks Not only is it still proudly perched in its spot, it provides the distraction to make the coaster all the more thrilling. Never forget to look at the goat and lock in. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what's next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
![[Kim Seong-kon] S.W.A.T.: 'South Korean Weapons and Tactics'](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwimg.heraldcorp.com%2Fnews%2Fcms%2F2025%2F07%2F08%2Fnews-p.v1.20250708.6dda44b0184647949a442f0dbb17387a_T1.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
![[Kim Seong-kon] S.W.A.T.: 'South Korean Weapons and Tactics'](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fall-logos-bucket.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fkoreaherald.com.png&w=48&q=75){kind=small}
Korea Herald
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
[Kim Seong-kon] S.W.A.T.: 'South Korean Weapons and Tactics'
Whenever I want to relax these days, I turn on the TV and watch a Netflix series titled "S.W.A.T." In its depiction of daily incidents in urban LA, the drama makes me brood over our turbulent past, ponder our present predicaments and reflect on the future awaiting our children's generation. The protagonist Hondo, a SWAT unit leader in LA, constantly wonders: 'Is it possible for me to bring change to the world in which I live? Can I make a better society by risking my life fighting vicious villains? Can I really change the system?' He agonizes over what kind of tactics he must adopt to make a better police department and a better world. SWAT stands for 'Special Weapons and Tactics' used to fight crime in our town, city and country. The drama "S.W.A.T." has caught my attention because each episode deals with various problems in LA, a city of the American Dream for immigrants, diverse ethnic minorities and multicultural neighborhoods. LA is also well known for its freeway, where you can enjoy 'this illusion of speed, freedom, wind in your hair, unreeling landscape,' as Thomas Pynchon described in his celebrated novel, 'The Crying of Lot 49.' In fact, Pynchon perceived that the LA freeway resembled the veins that nourish America, and if someone were to inject a hypodermic needle somewhere in them, Americans would experience hallucinations, hypnosis and paralysis. When it comes to LA, people might also think of the police brutality during the arrest of Rodney King in 1991 and the ensuing riots in 1992, which ignited racist disputes in the so-called 'City of Angels.' The Rodney King incident has consequently evoked a fundamental distrust between minorities and the LA police. In addition, LA suffers from a range of crimes, as do other big American cities. Furthermore, in the series, LA is an emblem of America and ultimately a microcosm of the contemporary world in which we now live. The first episode of the drama begins with the fatal mistake of a white SWAT unit leader. While pursuing a white male suspect, he accidentally shoots and wounds a young Black bystander. Naturally, the African American community is enraged and protests strongly against the police. As a result, the SWAT leader resigns from the police force. The authorities then decide to appoint a Black sergeant, Hondo, as the new leader of the SWAT unit in an effort to save face and pacify the anger of the African American community. In the process, they bypass Sgt. Deacon, the white officer who was initially the successor to the leader who resigned. Thus, the first episode evokes the issue of DEI. DEI, which stands for 'Diversity, Equity and Inclusion,' has become controversial in the US, where conservatives question its validity. However, Hondo exhibits strong leadership qualities, extraordinary competence and an admirable personality, apparently justifying DEI. The issues and problems that 'S.W.A.T.' is dealing with are uniquely American, but at the same time, they are universal. They include racism, prejudice, white supremacy, nationalism, drug smuggling, human trafficking and issues within LGBTQ+ communities. The TV show also highlights instances of 'Robin Hood' crime, in which people steal from the rich to give to the poor. Just as LA and America are depicted in the drama, South Korea is also now suffering from many accumulated internal problems and serious external crises. For example, putting an end to the polarity and division of our society is urgent, and so is overcoming antagonism, hate and hostility among our politicians. While investigating hate crimes against other races, SWAT officer Chris asks Hondo, 'Where do you think this comes from? All the hate?' Hondo replies, 'I don't know, Chris. For some people, it's just the easiest way to feel, and it's infectious.' Our current moment of political populism also stirs hate and impetuousness. Getting over that is therefore imperative to make our society better. Meanwhile, we must find or invent our own 'special weapons and tactics' to properly and swiftly cope with the international crises lurking in our path. One of the SWAT rules is 'Only move as fast as you can shoot and never lose your control.' We must keep this in mind when we deal with national or international emergencies. In addition, instead of short-term solutions, we must pursue and come up with long-term solutions. Indeed, as Hondo says, 'Sometimes a short-term solution just creates a long-term problem.' While watching "S.W.A.T.," it occurs to me that we, too, urgently need a quick-reacting 'South Korean Weapons and Tactics' task force to effectively deal with the problems we now face, both internal and external. We must have the best weapons and superb tactics to survive the current crises and thrive in the years to come.
Tom's Guide
08-06-2025
- Automotive
- Tom's Guide
My dad is impossible to shop for, but this YETI beach chair is the best Father's Day gift I've ever given him
My dad is famously difficult to shop for, which makes Father's Day one of my most dreaded public holidays. Every Christmas he gets pajamas, and when his birthday rolls around in February, I usually scrape the bottom of the barrel with some sort of novelty sock. It's not because I don't want to lavish him with gifts. Far from it. I'm dying to upgrade his rusty old lawnmower or treat him to a fancy new gas grill. But my dad, like many, is a practical and sentimental man. He doesn't want anything, and if he does, he'd probably prefer to buy it for himself. This Father's Day, however, I've found the perfect gift that I didn't even know existed. So dad, if you're reading this, look away now. Here are 3 reasons why the new YETI Hondo beach chair is the ideal gift for the dad who has everything. Available in two colorways and constructed from breathable, UV-resistant fabric, the YETI Hondo Beach Chair is an ideal gift for fathers. There's nothing my dad loves more than a trip to the beach. On summer weekends when I was a kid, he'd spontaneously pack the family into the car for a day by the sea, and they're some of our happiest memories together. But in recent years, he's switched from a beach towel to a chair, packing a rusty old camping seat into the trunk so he can soak up some rays in a more upright position. I confess, I didn't know beach chairs even existed until I heard of the Hondo, but its low-lying reclining position is truly ideal for beach lounging, and it has four reclining positions for maximum comfort. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. So long, rusty camping chair, there's a new seat in town. I don't think my dad will mind me saying that he'll find the wider dimensions of this beach chair especially comfortable. The top review on the YETI site is titled "a huge win for bigger guys," and I'm inclined to agree. The reviewer says, "I have embarrassed myself 4 times on a public beach in front of hundreds of people, breaking every beach chair I've bought until now. Thanks guys, this thing is 'me-proof'." The lightweight and durable FlexGrid fabric claims to support up to 350 pounds, and the seat itself is 26.5 inches wide. So it's a gift that most dads can enjoy. Despite its wide dimensions and sturdy construction, this thing is surprisingly lightweight, weighing in at under 12 pounds. Its removable strap attaches easily onto each side of the chair to allow you to pop it over your shoulder or even wear it cross-body as you make your way across the beach to find that perfect sunbathing spot. Because of its portable design, you could also happily take the Hondo camping or on fishing trips, where you might have a considerable walk from your car to your destination. The strap is even padded, so and I found it very comfortable on my shoulder.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Shemar Moore Lands ‘S.W.A.T.' Spinoff After Season 8 Finale: Everything to Know About ‘S.W.A.T. Exiles'
Shemar Moore is breathing new life into the S.W.A.T. franchise. Just when viewers thought the show was done following the May 2025 series finale on CBS, it was announced that Sony Pictures Television was developing a spinoff of the series. Closer shares everything to know about the upcoming spinoff called S.W.A.T. Exiles. S.W.A.T. was canceled by CBS after eight seasons. The series finale aired on the network on May 16, 2025. The official logline for S.W.A.T. Exiles says, 'After a high-profile mission goes sideways, Hondo is pulled out of forced retirement to lead a last-chance experimental SWAT unit made up of untested, unpredictable young recruits. Hondo must bridge a generational divide, navigate clashing personalities, and turn a squad of outsiders into a team capable of protecting the city and saving the program that made him who he is.' A press release from Sony Pictures promised that the show will "deliver the same high stakes drama and intense action sequences that fans have come to know and love.' The spinoff was greenlit for 10 episodes despite the fact that the show 'has not yet been sold to any outlets, either domestically or internationally,' per Variety. Sony is expecting 'the right homes and partners for these new stories to reach the passionate S.W.A.T. fanbase and attract new viewers.' So far, it has been confirmed that Shemar will be returning to reprise his role as Hondo, as well as serving as an executive producer on the project. 'My eight seasons on S.W.A.T. have been epic and memorable,' the actor said in a statement. 'We entertained the world, defied the odds, came back from the dead twice, and continued to woo fans and families worldwide. I am excited for this next generation and iteration of S.W.A.T. with Sony.' "I will keep the franchise, thrill ride action, heartfelt drama, and storytelling of S.W.A.T. alive. WE DON'T LOSE!!!! ROLL SWAT!!!" he said. Jason Ning will serve as showrunner and executive producer of S.W.A.T. Exiles. 'It's an incredible honor to carry forward the legacy of a show that fans around the world have come to love,' he said. 'Working with Shemar Moore, who defines what it means to be a leading man, and introducing a new generation of characters into this world is a dream.' So far, Shemar's return is the only casting news that has been confirmed so far. 'We couldn't be more excited to bring the next chapter of S.W.A.T. to life — both for our incredibly dedicated fans of the original franchise and for a new generation of viewers,' Katherine Pope, SPT Studios President, said. 'We're grateful to our incredible partners Neal H. Moritz, Pavun Shetty, Jason Ning and Shemar Moore for embarking on this journey with us. This team's commitment to the global fanbase, to our beloved crew and to our city runs deep!' According to Deadline, 'the 200-person production crew that helped to make S.W.A.T. a success for CBS will get to keep their jobs when production resumes this summer in Los Angeles.'
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Is ‘S.W.A.T.' Renewed for Season 9? Inside the Show's Future After It Was Canceled 3 Times
S.W.A.T. concluded its eighth and final season on May 16, 2025, but many fans aren't ready to let go of the hit police drama. After all, it was canceled not once, not twice, but three times, and two of those cancellations were reversed. So, was the third cancellation the real deal, or can viewers expect to see S.W.A.T. return for season 9? Closer breaks down everything to know about the show's future. CBS called it quits on the action series for the third time in March 2025, a few weeks ahead of season 8's finale. 'It's heartbreaking news, primarily because it's been such an immense pleasure working with this cast and crew to put out a show that we've always been proud of,' showrunner and executive producer Andrew Dettmann said in a statement at the time. 'They are truly an extraordinary group of people who have all worked so hard and have been so dedicated for all these eight seasons, overcoming countless challenges. I can't give them enough credit.' Shemar Moore, who played Daniel 'Hondo' Harrelson, also shared a video discussing the news on Instagram. 'I wasn't going to do this, but I can't help it,' he said. 'S.W.A.T., here we are, season 8, three weeks away from the finale. We are canceled again. It sucks. It's sad.' While many fans were holding out hope that CBS would reverse its decision to cancel S.W.A.T., as it did ahead of seasons 7 and 8, this did not happen after the third cancellation. However, Sony Pictures TV Studios prexy Katherine Pope said that the creators did attempt to sell the show to other networks. 'It felt very clear from CBS that this was the end,' she explained to Variety on May 22, 2025. 'It was a difficult decision for them, but it felt very final. So we set out to sell the show elsewhere. We tried really hard, and we felt like we got close at a place or two, but we just couldn't quite get it over the line.' Though S.W.A.T. was not renewed for season 9 at CBS or another network, fans will still get to watch the beloved series in another form. A S.W.A.T. spinoff series called S.W.A.T. Exiles was announced shortly after the series finale. Shemar is set to reprise his role as Hondo. 'After a high-profile mission goes sideways, Hondo is pulled out of forced retirement to lead a last-chance experimental SWAT unit made up of untested, unpredictable young recruits,' the logline reads. 'Hondo must bridge a generational divide, navigate clashing personalities, and turn a squad of outsiders into a team capable of protecting the city and saving the program that made him who he is.' S.W.A.T. Exiles will have 10 episodes, although it does not yet have a home on any network or streaming service as of publication. Katherine told Variety that the series plans to begin production in August 2025.
