Latest news with #MichaelHolt
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The Real-World Impact of Mr. Terrific in SUPERMAN
We're finally getting to see one of the coolest, smartest, and most brilliant minds in DC Comics hit the big screen: Michael Holt, aka Mr. Terrific. Not only is he an intellectual powerhouse, but he also represents a crucial facet of Black STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) excellence. In James Gunn's new Superman movie, Edi Gathegi's portrayal showcases his intellect, power, and ingenuity. He's also a major player in helping Superman save the world. This kind of visibility matters far beyond films, entertainment, and comic books. We haven't seen many heroes, super or otherwise, or even villains, who are primarily STEM-based characters. Why is this important? Because it can shift aspirations, challenge stereotypes, and even influence industry practices. RELATED ARTICLE SUPERMAN Is Really, Really Good (Thank God) On the STEM side, the story is similarly stark. According to Pew Research, Black students earned no more than 9% of STEM degrees awarded in 2018 across the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, with particularly low representation in engineering and the physical sciences. Black women, in particular, comprise only about 2–2.5% of the U.S. STEM workforce. Black STEM professionals report higher rates of workplace discrimination: roughly 62% say they've experienced race-related slights at work, compared to lower percentages for other groups. This combination of underrepresentation and unease can severely discourage young Black talent from even considering STEM careers. This is where Mr. Terrific on the big screen comes in: a visible example of a person of color who embodies scientific brilliance, resilience, and moral conviction. Studies show that seeing 'someone like you' in a field correlates with greater interest and persistence. For instance, Black students with Black STEM teachers report more positive experiences and encouragement to stay in STEM tracks. Translating that to cinema: young viewers who identify with Michael Holt may internalize, 'If he belongs here, maybe I do, too.' It's a psychological nudge that can plant seeds for future scientists, engineers, and innovators, potentially inspiring them to seek out real-life examples like Lonnie G. Johnson (NASA engineer and inventor of the Super Soaker), Mae C. Jemison (the first African American woman to travel into space), or Alan Emtage (credited with inventing Archie, the world's first internet search engine). RELATED ARTICLE 10 Black Innovators Who Changed the Gaming Industry While Mr. Terrific's arrival is a huge win, it's worth acknowledging that the road to meaningful Black STEM representation in genre storytelling has been uneven at best. For every step forward, there have been glaring misses or outright missteps. Take Blankman (1994), for instance, starring Damon Wayans as a nerdy, socially awkward crime-fighting inventor. He rigs up gadgets and has a whole home base made from junkyard scraps. He was like a broke, muscle-free mashup of Iron Man and Batman. And this was decades before Black Panther and one of the first portrayals of a Black STEM superhero on the big screen. Then there's Steel (1997), starring Shaquille O'Neal as John Henry Irons, a brilliant weapons engineer who builds his own armored suit after tragedy strikes. We also cannot forget Dr. Karen Jensen, played by N'Bushe Wright in Blade (1998), a hematologist who unfortunately becomes Blade's indispensable ally. In that film she uses her medical expertise to hunt for a cure for vampirism. Lucius Fox, played by Morgan Freeman in Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy, also deserves a nod. He's the CEO of Wayne Enterprises whose sharp engineering mind outfits Batman with his most advanced tech. In more recent years, we've seen Shuri, played by Letitia Wright in Black Panther (2018) and Wakanda Forever (2022), the chief architect of Wakanda's technology. Her brilliance is woven into every part of those stories. RELATED ARTICLE IRONHEART Soars With Its Exploration of Temptation, Grief, Legacy, and Magic (Review) Almost all the scientists in Wakanda are STEM experts, and the country itself is founded on STEM principles. Right alongside her is Ironheart (Riri Williams), played by Dominique Thorne, the teenage prodigy who crafts her own Iron Man-level suit while still at MIT. Even T'Challa, played by Chadwick Boseman, himself is more than a warrior-king; he's a physicist whose mind helps propel Wakanda's scientific edge. There's also Cyborg (Victor Stone), played by Ray Fisher, whose arc in Justice League (2017) and Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021) pivots on his advanced cybernetics and hacking genius. Dr. Bill Foster (played by Laurence Fishburne in Ant-Man and the Wasp) is a pioneering biochemist once deep in Pym Particle research. Even our few STEM-aligned villains, Jamie Foxx's Electro in The Amazing Spider-Man 2 and No Way Home, or Black Manta, played by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II in the Aquaman films, are too rare. However, as antagonists, they still deserve mention. What I love about Superman is how it leans all the way into the 'show, don't just tell' mantra when it comes to Michael Holt's genius. The film steers clear of the usual pitfalls that often snag Black intellectual characters in genre stories. Gunn doesn't reduce Mr. Terrific to a 'walking supercomputer' or a glorified IT guy for superheroes. Instead, we get to watch his T-Spheres operate as living extensions of his mind. Holt proves his brilliance through hands-on problem-solving and innovation. His character isn't one-sided or just spitting out tech jargon; he's cracking dry jokes, revealing different sides of his personality, and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Superman and Lois to take down Lex and his crew. The film grants him true agency, letting his own ethical dilemmas and decisions drive key moments. That's precisely what gives seeing Mr. Terrific on screen such real-world impact. Mr. Terrific in Superman is a bona fide co-star, right alongside the other meta-humans. His time on screen isn't some blink-and-you'll-miss-it cameo; he has a full-on impact on the outcome of the film. I'm sure fans of the character, and of Gathegi (who also played Darwin in X-Men: First Class) before being killed off way too quickly, despite Darwin's power literally being able to evolve and survive anything, will appreciate finally seeing him get his due. Seeing a Black STEM superhero take center stage isn't just important for fans or indie projects; it matters on the biggest screen possible. With this portrayal, Mr. Terrific's presence carries far beyond the new DC movie universe; it sparks thought, inspires ideas, and expands possibilities, contributing to the hope and potential of future generations.
Geek Dad
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Dad
Review – Mr. Terrific: Year One #2
Mr. Terrific: Year One #2 cover, via DC Comics. Ray: When we picked up with Michael Holt last issue, he was a man at his wit's end. After losing his wife and unborn child in a freak car accident, he had spiraled – and not even his best friend Dre was able to pull him out of it. Michael didn't agree to help when Dre wanted support in taking on a corrupt corporate executive that was taking Michael and Paula's old invention and using it to take over the city's power grid – turning it toxic in the process. So Dre joined up with a mysterious associate to stage a break-in – and while Michael did snap out of it enough to help him after the heist, it was too late, and Dre was killed in the process. A heavy way to kick things off, and enough to take away what little hope Michael has left. As the issue starts, he's ready to give up and takes a long climb up to a tall bridge. And that's when God intervenes – in the form of a towering, green Spirit of Vengeance in a menacing cloak. Reconnaissance. Via DC Comics. I was always wondering about what the connection between Michael Holt and Terry Sloane was, as Michael's motivations and MO were completely different. But the introduction of Jim Corrigan to Michael's origin story ties things together really well. I've liked all the Spectres – Hal Jordan and Crispus Allen both had excellent solo stories over the years – but there's something special about Corrigan. He always had the perfect mix of menace for those who deserved it and kindness for those who need it. There's a great look into Michael's past that explains why he's so haunted by Paula's death – while he wasn't responsible in any way, there was something deeply unresolved between them. And there's also a great reveal about who Dre's collaborator was – and who our villain is actually working for. It all works nicely to set up Michael's journey from everyman scientist to genius superhero. To find reviews of all the DC issues, visit DC This Week. GeekDad received this comic for review purposes. Liked it? Take a second to support GeekDad and GeekMom on Patreon!
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Martin & Company Announces Leadership Transition: Darren Williams Promoted to President and CEO
KNOXVILLE, Tenn., June 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Martin & Company, a leading investment advisory firm in Knoxville, announced Darren Williams' promotion to president and CEO. Michael Holt, who has led the firm for the past six years, will remain involved in client relationships but is stepping back from day-to-day management of the firm. "Trends in investing come and go, but Martin & Company has remained the investment manager of choice for many Knoxvillians for more than 35 years. Darren will continue and lead the firm's commitment to safeguard and grow client assets," shared Michael Holt. Williams is a 25-year veteran of Martin & Company and successfully led the development of the firm's small-cap equity strategy. The firm attributes its success to its team of highly experienced investment professionals. Darren's growing responsibilities within the firm have set him apart as the firm's next leader. Before joining Martin & Company, Williams graduated from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville with degrees in biochemistry and finance. Following graduation, he completed the Chartered Financial Analyst® program and received the CFA® designation. He also served as an adjunct instructor at UTK teaching undergraduate courses in investment and portfolio management for ten years. "We are optimistic and excited for the future of East Tennessee and believe that Martin & Company can help build the community's wealth into the next generation," said Williams. Martin & Company manages more than $1.4 billion on behalf of individuals, foundations, trusts, endowments, corporations, and other institutions, with most clients located in the East Tennessee area. In addition to providing exceptional client-centered service, Martin & Company is a committed philanthropic partner for nonprofit organizations in the region. Leadership changes also include long-time portfolio manager, Charles Stewart being named as the firm's executive vice president. Both Williams and Stewart expressed their gratitude for Holt's leadership and are honored to continue working together to provide an outstanding investment management service. ABOUT MARTIN & COMPANYMartin & Company Investment Counsel is a SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm established in 1989 with over $1.4 billion in assets under management. Martin & Company's business is managing money on behalf of its clients on a fiduciary basis and acting in their best interests. The firm has advised clients including pension plans, profit sharing plans, endowments, insurance companies, public funds, financial institutions, corporations, and individuals, and has been affiliated with First Horizon Corporation since 1998. Its staff of portfolio managers are CFA® charterholders and have more than 100 years of combined investment management experience. For more information, visit CONTACT:Alissa Santoro, Media Contact865-541-4747asantoro@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Martin & Company 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
The Sun
16-06-2025
- Sport
- The Sun
‘I wasn't sure I'd play again' – Snooker star Sam Craigie reveals year-long battle with horror neck injury
SNOOKER star Sam Craigie has revealed his year-long battle with a horror neck injury, admitting: 'I wasn't sure I'd play again.' Craigie, 31, is one of snooker's top players after turning professional in 2011. 6 6 6 He boasts 101 century breaks after recording a best ranking finish of third at the 2021 WST Pro Series. But Craigie is currently listed at just 84th in the world after playing his last match in September 2024. The ace vanished from sight following his English Open qualifying defeat to Michael Holt, leading to questions from fans over his future. However, Craigie has now posted a lengthy statement online revealing that he has been dealing with serious health issues. Posting several pictures of himself in hospital with scarring around his neck, the ace revealed that intense shoulder pain and a slipped disc left him unable to play. Craigie admits the setback was so bad that he even considered giving up snooker. However, he is well on the road to recovery and even got his tour card confirmed earlier this month. Craigie is now in line to compete at the Wuhan Open qualifiers on June 23 against Aaron Hill. And he is also scheduled for a British Open qualifier just days later against Yao Pengcheng. Cragie told fans on Instagram: 'Some of you might have been wondering where I have been on the World Snooker Tour. 'Not fit for purpose' - Barry Hearn slams Crucible with World Snooker Championship tipped to 'travel around world' 6 6 6 'Well, it's been a bit of a tough time of late. For around a year, I had been in & out of the GP for shoulder pain. In June 2024, I was sent for an x-ray & MRI where I found I had a tear. 'From around then the pain became almost permanent, I nearly had to withdraw from most tournaments during that time but somehow had my best result in getting to the Semi finals of the German Masters despite the pain I was in. 'Once the season finished, I decided to see a orthopaedic surgeon who informed me the pain in my shoulder was most likely coming from my neck, which was confirmed by an MRI, showing I had a slipped disc. 'I then decided to go forward with the surgery (C5/6 anterior cervical disc replacement) in July as the pain was unbearable. Thankfully, all went well, and I was discharged the following day, thinking I would be back to full health a few weeks after the surgery. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case. 'The first few tournaments were only a week or 2 away at the time, but I simply couldn't get down to play a shot when I tried. I informed world snooker about the situation after withdrawing from multiple events. 'The following months, I couldn't do much at all. I wasn't sure if I'd even play snooker again. Around January 2025, I started thinking about snooker seriously again and slowly started having a few hours of practice. 'It was hard to commit to it due to still being in some pain while playing. A couple of months ago I started taking it seriously again. On Friday 6th June 2025 my tour card was confirmed so now I can get my head down and look forward to what the future holds.' Fans were quick to praise Craigie, with one saying: 'It's great you're back in the game.' Another declared: 'Wish you the best.'
Newsweek
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
'Superman' Releases New Look at Classic DC Superhero
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Entertainment gossip and news from Newsweek's network of contributors The promotional lead-up to James Gunn's "Superman" continues, and lately the studio has been busy releasing production stills from the film. The latest is a shot of Edi Gathegi as Michael Holt/Mr. Terrific alongside filmmaker Gunn. You can see the shot below. New look at Mr. Terrific in James Gunn's 'SUPERMAN' — DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) April 30, 2025 Read More: 'Thunderbolts' Early Reviews Overwhelmingly One-Sided A lot of haters have been pointing out James Gunn's penchant for showing up in production stills, and this one is no exception. Scan the comments on X and you'll find plenty of fans poking fun at the "Guardians of the Galaxy" filmmaker for once again making an appearance in yet another production still. David Corenswet as Superman in "Superman" David Corenswet as Superman in "Superman" Warner Bros More and more of the promotional material is focusing on the less well-known heroes appearing in "Superman". DC Studios released a behind-the-scenes teaser on April 18, Superman Day, which, among other things, gave us some of our best looks yet at Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl and Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho. The concept behind Mister Terrific comes from the Golden Age of comics, with rich Renaissance Man Terry Sloane debuting as the character back in 1942's "Sensation Comics" #1. But the version we'll meet in "Superman" first showed up much later, in 1997's "Spectre" #54. Michael Holt doesn't have any superpowers, instead, he has what he calls "a natural aptitude for having natural aptitudes." Imagine someone like Tony Stark or Reed Richards, but who also demonstrates natural athletic abilities; that's Michael Holt. Before he becomes a superhero, he holds 14 PhDs and is a gold medal-winning Olympian. After the accidental deaths of his wife and the child she was carrying, Holt was inspired by the supernatural Spectre to become a superhero and model himself after Terry Sloane's Golden Age hero. Mister Terrific has made numerous appearances in DC's animated projects, and a version of the character - named Curtis Holt - shows up in the CW's Arrowverse shows, played by Echo Kellum. But Gathegi's appearance in "Superman" will mark the theatrical live-action debut of the character. This won't be Gathegi's first time playing a superhero either. He plays the mutant Darwin in 2011's "X-Men: First Class". "Superman" releases in theaters on July 11. The film is written and directed by James Gunn. "Superman" stars David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, and Isabela Merced. More Comics: New 'Thunderbolts' Teaser Shows Best Look at Sentry's Powers Blade Reboot Costume Designer Confirms Wildest Theory About Failed Film
