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Fox News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Fox News
Ed Sullivan, an unsung civil rights champion
When I think of Ed Sullivan, what flashes first to my mind is Feb. 9, 1964, as I sat watching with my parents on a large black-and-white TV – as we all did in those days – and he gave a wave to introduce the Beatles. I even scribbled it down in my journal, with a small sketch of a long-haired dude singing "I Wanna Hold Your Hand." But it turns out that the host – who drew as many as 50 million viewers on Sunday nights, which will never be repeated – did something far, far more important than launch John, Paul, George and Ringo in America. The Daily News columnist was a civil rights leader, and an aggressive one at that. This was no secret to those who closely followed Sullivan, and especially in the Black community. But a new Netflix documentary, "Sunday Best," filled with riveting archival footage, makes clear how many backstage battles Sullivan had to fight, including with his own network, and how CBS acted shamefully. Even the sainted Edward R. Murrow praised Sullivan in an interview for his celebrity show. Black Americans in those years rarely appeared on television, except in small, buffoonish roles, leaving aside Amos 'n Andy in blackface. That didn't change until 1965, when a pre-scandal Bill Cosby co-starred in "I Spy." CBS suits were right that Sullivan could lose viewers in the South, which was then a hotbed of racism. The KKK marched openly. It was a Ku Klux Klan organizer who wrote George Wallace's infamous line, "Segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever!" Sure, we know all about Rosa Parks, who wouldn't give up her seat on the bus, the use of firehoses against Black protesters, the brutal beatings on Bloody Sunday in Selma. But seeing it from this perspective is a heart-stopping reminder of how much stark bigotry stained the country. Sullivan, who grew up poor in Harlem when it was largely Italian and Jewish, was covering a football game as sports editor of the New York Evening Graphic in 1929. It was NYU versus the University of Georgia, to be played in New York. And the Georgians had a demand. "I was sickened to read NYU's agreement to bench a Negro player for the entire game…If a New York university allows the Mason Dixon Line to be erected in the center of its playing field," Sullivan wrote, "then that university should disband its football season for all time." So after launching his show in 1948, at the dawn of television, what was Sullivan's great sin? He put Black entertainers on the air. We're talking Harry Belafonte, Nat King Cole, James Brown, Gladys Knight, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, Diana Ross, Bo Diddley, a child prodigy named Stevie Wonder – the superstars of their era. Behind the scenes, CBS's conduct was pathetic. Executives urged Sullivan not to shake hands with the Black entertainers, not to put his arm around them, to keep his distance. He basically ignored them. He took heat from Ford Lincoln dealers for kissing Pearl Bailey on the cheek. The host was a powerful guy. He had been on the cover of Time in 1955. After Sullivan announced an upcoming appearance by Belafonte, CBS canceled him because of his pro-Communist views. Sullivan met with the left-wing activist and got him put back on. As the biggest star on television, he could get away with such defiance. As noted, Diahann Carroll, who appeared on the show nine times, said: "For those of us who were actors, he introduced us to each other. I don't think he understood what he was doing as exceptional, he was simply doing what was in his heart." Sullivan also took on one of the most racist politicians in our post-Civil War history, Herman Talmadge, the governor of Georgia. "We intend to maintain segregation one way or another," Talmadge declared. In pushing an advertising boycott, Talmadge said: "I know that I shall not contribute money by purchasing a product from any man who is contributing to the integration and degradation and the mongrelization of the white race." Sullivan responded in his column – there's a screenshot – that "the statements of Gov Talmadge that Negro performers should be barred from TV shows on which White performers appear is both stupid and vicious." Talmadge was later elected to the Senate and was embraced by the Washington establishment. It was said that he modified his views on race. What he actually did was try to politically escape the shameful conduct that the Democratic Party could no longer defend. He had company: Strom Thurmond was a staunch segregationist who filibustered the 1957 Civil Rights Act for more than 24 hours; he too later "modified" his views. In the late 1950s, at a meeting of CBS affiliates, several managers of Southern stations complained that the host was booking too many Black performers. An angry Sullivan said the stations were under no obligation to carry his show. No one canceled. CBS canceled Sullivan's show in 1971 because his ratings were declining and his audience was skewing older. On that last show, the guest was Gladys Knight and the Pips. He was so angry that he either refused to do a farewell show or was barred by CBS for doing so, depending on the account. It was the longest-running program on television. Look, Sullivan's career was framed in the best possible light. The producer is Margo Precht Speciale, his granddaughter. So we should take that into account before nominating him for sainthood. But it's fair to say the truth was hidden in plain sight. Ed Sullivan was a genuine civil rights hero. And that was news to me. A little aside: The year after the Beatles debut, a friend's parents took us to what is now the Ed Sullivan Theater to see a top-rated rock group, Freddie and the Dreamers, perform their hit "I'm Telling You Now," complete with a weird stiff-legged dance. Hey, I didn't mind sitting through all the variety acts for that.
Business Insider
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Insider
These universally flattering sunglasses are $12 for Prime Day
I found these sunglasses when I became obsessed with the Celine Triomphe pair, which you may have seen on celebrities and influencers alike. These $600 glasses, with their shiny gold frames and oval-shaped lenses, are my dream sunglasses aren't the best investment. We've all forgotten a pair in an Uber or left them on a beach chair to be sat on. So, as a rule, I avoid splurging on though I do own a pair of Ray-Bans I got as a gift, I've stopped wearing anything but these Sojos Retro Oval sunglasses from Amazon. Not only are they flattering on everyone, but they also look way more expensive than they are. Seriously, I never thought I would get so much use out of a pair of sunglasses that are under-$20, but these are my sunglasses are one of the best Prime Day fashion deals we could find. In fact, they're one of the best Prime Day deals of all, since you get a discount on one of the These sunglasses are everywhere. We've spotted them on Love Island, on influencers, and all over New York City. What makes them so popular is their unanimously flattering shape and gold edges that make them look like they cost way more than they do. It's not easy to find glasses that look good on a round face. Most lenses are too wide, too square, or too oversized. But these, since they're ovals, are the perfect shape. I highly recommend them to my fellow Asian women, since something about these sunglasses seems to flatter our high cheekbones and softer facial contours. The Sojos Retro Oval sunglasses aren't just flattering on round faces. I've passed these around to my friends, and they've all experienced the magic of the sisterhood of the travelling look at the models above and their different face shapes. I don't quite know what the trick is, but these look good on everyone. Watching an episode of Love Island have become a kind of "I Spy" game for me. I've seen these all over the show. On Love Island UK this season, I once saw three people wearing them concurrently. They're also all over TikTok and Instagram, with fashion influencers in every space touting the powers of these $12 sunglasses. These statement earrings are surprisingly light on the lobes and have a mixed metal doorknocker design. This raffia tote makes a great beach bag or summer purse. It's also small enough that you can roll it up and put in in your suitcase. A white maxi skirt and a crop top is the summer uniform of 2025. This skirt is an affordable way to get in on the trend. This handbag with 3D florals will absolutely make an outfit stand out. Pair it with a white dress and let your purse do the talking. Not a fan of open-toed shoes, but still want your feet to breathe? Try these Mary Janes with a woven faux leather upper. Shopping for more discounts? Check out our roundup of all of the best Prime Day deals, or browse Amazon's website for the full selection.
Otago Daily Times
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Otago Daily Times
75 young thespians amaze in gang show
Riley Verhoef, 16, of Dunedin, and Lily Newcombe, 16, of Dunback — and the cast of the Otago Gang Show 2025 -- rehearse at the Mayfair Theatre ahead of this week's opening night. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH I was invited to attend the final dress rehearsal of the Gang Show in the Mayfair Theatre last Sunday. I always enjoy the bi-annual Gang Show productions which give large casts of enthusiastic young people the opportunity to entertain with singing and acting, developing confidence in performing and self-esteem that astounds most parents and friends in the audience. This year with a performing cast of 75 girl guides and scouts from Otago and Southland, co-producers Noel and Sue Walker have crafted a musical comedy show entitled An Amazing Race. The show is based loosely on the popular TV series of the same title, with songs, skits and some corny humour from countries visited. Musical director Ivan Graham maintained a well-paced show accompanied by a ten-piece ensemble (musical arrangements Linda Hodge, chorus manager Christine Veltman), visiting countries encountered by the teams racing to find clues and be first home. Various choreography to match was devised by Mhairi Rowbotton and Olivia Larkins. Throughout the journey two TV announcers, one intentionally bungling and hopeless, advanced the plot for listeners at home. Outstanding projected backdrops (Ben Caton), props and colourful costumes (Dawn New and Kath Morgan) highlighted every change of scene. Maintaining fast orderly backstage costume-changing discipline must have been frantic at times for stage manager Stephen Manning, properties Emma Rooney, makeup Catie Hodge and 27 dressers. The teams began their adventures backed by familiar Octagon backdrops. One team was upgraded for their first flight with very dubious cockpit dialogue (playing I Spy) and antics. Arrival in France gave opportunity for Paris nightlife scenes with dancers, before progressing to Norway, the Caribbean with pirates, Egypt with pyramid antics, London, America, Australia, then back to a flag-bedecked Octagon to celebrate the winners, who give the $100,000 prize money to fund the new Dunedin hospital. The jubilant traditional entire cast singing Riding Along on the Crest of a Wave always brings a lump to the throat. An Amazing Race opens tonight and continues until Saturday.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
15 Fun Road Trip Games for That Will Make the Miles Fly by
Long hours in the car can feel endless—especially once the excitement fades and the snack supply starts to dwindle. But a few road trip games can turn even the longest drive into a fun and memorable part of your journey. Whether you're heading out on a family vacation or a weekend escape with friends, a great game can spark laughter, ease boredom, and help the miles pass on by. Classic picks like I Spy and 20 Questions are always crowd-pleasers, but we've also included a few clever twists and fresh ideas to keep everyone, including little kids entertained. Best of all, most of these fun car games don't require screens, supplies or extra prep—just a little creativity and a willingness to play. So before you queue up your playlist or finalize your route (check out these affordable travel spots in the U.S. and road trip packing tips), make sure you've got a few of these boredom-busters ready to to Play: Starting with "A," spot words on signs, billboards, or even cars that begin with each letter of the alphabet, in order. The first person to spot a word for "Z" wins! Example: "A" for "Arby's," "B" for "Burger King," "C" for "Chevron." Pro-Tip: Proper nouns count! (e.g., "McDonald's" for M)How to Play: One person says, "I spy with my little eye something..." and gives a color or other simple clue about an object they see. Others guess until someone gets it right. That person then becomes the "spy." Example: "I spy with my little eye something blue." (Could be the sky, a car, or a sign) Pro-Tip: Make sure the object will be visible for a reasonable amount of timeHow to Play: One person thinks of a person, place, or thing. Others ask "yes" or "no" questions to try and guess what it is. They have 20 questions to figure it out. Example: "Is it alive?" "No." "Is it bigger than a breadbox?" "Yes." Pro-Tip: Start with broad categories (e.g., "Is it alive?")How to Play: One person starts a story with a sentence. The next person adds another sentence, and so on. See where your collective imaginations take you. Example: "Once upon a time, a squirrel decided to open a five-star restaurant." "Unfortunately, his first customer was a very hungry bear." Pro-Tip: Encourage silly and unexpected turnsHow to Play: Try to spot license plates from as many different states as you can. Keep a running tally, or simply see who can find the most unique states. Example: "Got a New York plate! Anyone see a Florida one yet?" Pro-Tip: Look for out-of-state plates at rest stops or gas stationsHow to Play: One person hums a tune (no words!). Others guess the song. The person who guesses correctly gets to hum the next tune. Example: (Hums the tune to "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star") "Is it 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star'?" Pro-Tip: Stick to well-known songs for easier guessingHow to Play: This one is simple: everyone tries to stay silent for as long as possible. The last person to make a sound wins. Example: (Everyone is quiet for 3 minutes, then someone sneezes.) "Achoo! Oh no, I lost!" Pro-Tip: This is great for a quick reset when energy levels are running highHow to Play: Each person holds up five fingers. One person says, "Never have I ever..." followed by something they've never done. If someone has done it, they put one finger down. The last person with fingers still up wins. Example: "Never have I ever eaten sushi." (Anyone who has eaten sushi puts a finger down)How to Play: Everyone tries to count aloud, in order, from 1 upwards, but only one person can say a number at a time, and there's no designated order. If two people say the same number at the same time, you have to start all over again from 1. Example: (Silence) "1." (Silence) "2." "3!" "3!" (Both said "3" at once, so you restart)How to Play: One person says a word. The next person immediately says a word that they associate with the previous word, then continue around the car. Example: "Car." "Road." "Trip." "Snacks." "Chips."How to Play: The first person says, "I went to the grocery store and bought an A-something..." (e.g., "apples"). The next person says, "I went to the grocery store and bought an A-something and a B-something..." (e.g., "apples and bananas"). Continue through the alphabet, trying to remember all the previous items. Example: "I went to the grocery store and bought an avocado." "I went to the grocery store and bought an avocado and some butter."How to Play: One person starts singing a line from a song. The next person has to sing a line from a different song that starts with the last word of the previous line. Or, simply pick a song and everyone sings along, points for whoever knows the most lyrics. Example: Player 1: "Sweet Caroline, oh oh oh." Player 2: (quickly finds a song starting with "oh") "Oh, what a night!"How to Play: One person thinks of a movie and describes its plot in a terrible, but technically accurate, way. Others try to guess the movie Example: "A young boy finds a magic ring, and he and his friends walk for ages to throw it into a volcano." (Answer: Lord of the Rings)How to Play: Before you start driving, pick 3-5 common words that are likely to be said during a road trip (e.g., "car," "road," "are we there yet?"). If anyone says one of the forbidden words, they lose a point (or get a silly penalty). Example: Forbidden words: "car," "rest stop," "hungry." "I think we should stop at the next rest stop." (Oops, lost a point!)How to Play: One person thinks of a specific person, character, or even a famous animal that everyone in the car would likely know (e.g., a family member, a character from a popular movie, a well-known historical figure). Others ask "yes" or "no" questions to narrow down the possibilities Example: (Player 1 thinks of "Scooby-Doo") "Are you human?" "No." "Are you from a cartoon?" "Yes." "Are you a dog?" "Yes." "Are you Scooby-Doo?" You Might Also Like 67 Best Gifts for Women That'll Make Her Smile The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper
The Sun
25-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Britain's favourite car games revealed according to survey – is yours on the list?
A POLL has revealed the most popular 'car games' among Britons, with I-spy coming out on top. I-Spy, 'First one to see' and Yellow Car are among the nation's most popular 'car games', according to research. 3 3 A poll of 2,000 adults found 88 per cent will indulge in a time-killing challenge when on a road trip. Spotting car brands and various license plates also proved popular. Other games to feature in the top 20 include the Alphabet Game, when you have to think of a word in a certain category beginning with each letter and the classic Rock Paper Scissors. Name That Tune, Would You Rather and even Truth or Dare are also popular. It comes after Londoners playing 'Yellow Car' would have found themselves racking up the points, after images captured five new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric vehicles buzzing around the capital's most famous landmarks. The fleet were all designed in the French carmaker's iconic yellow pop colourway, making them stand out from the crowd. The swarm of five in-sync cars drove past London sights including The Mall and past Big Ben. A spokesperson from the automotive brand, which also commissioned the research, said: "The nation will be taking to the roads this Bank Holiday weekend and I'm sure many will be playing at least one of these classic car games. 'While I-Spy might still be the most popular, Yellow Car is one that many will be familiar with. 'Trying to spot a brightly coloured car while on the road can keep adults and children alike entertained and can help make any car journey go that little bit quicker. New Renault 4 is no longer a cheap, simple no frills runabout - it's now a funky family crossover and a capital B bargain 'So, having launched Renault 5 with the option of vibrant, fun colours, we wanted to play a real-life version of the Yellow Car game on the streets of London, so anyone driving past would have had a bumper load of cars to shout about.' The study also revealed that for 67 per cent of those who play car games, the point doing so is simply to pass time and stave off boredom, but 43 per cent rely on them to lighten the mood. And 16 per cent turn to them to reduce screen time or random scrolling on their phones. It also emerged 63 per cent of adults claimed car games make them feel nostalgic for the car trips of their childhood. UK car journeys were the most popular time to break out a game (53 per cent), followed by when going a day trip (41 per cent) and visiting friends and family (32 per cent). But 21 per cent of adults also play them when driving with friends and 17 per cent do so on the exciting journey to the airport. And nearly one in 10 (eight per cent) of the parents polled, via OnePoll, turn to them to keep kids entertained on the school run. 3
