InFrame

Netflix Greenlights 'KPop Demon Hunters' Sequel with Original Directors Returning After 500 Million Views

Photo Credit: Netflix

by Chris Tremblay Mar 15

2 MIN READ

Netflix has greenlit a sequel to the animated sensation "KPop Demon Hunters", with the original creative team set to return. Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans will helm the follow-up, marking the first project in a multiyear writing and directing partnership with the streamer.

The original "KPop Demon Hunters" debuted on Netflix in June 2025, following the members of the fictional K-pop group HUNTR/X—Rumi, Mira, and Zoey—as they balance global stardom with a secret mission to hunt demons and protect the magical barrier known as the Honmoon. The story incorporates elements of Korean folklore alongside K-pop culture, featuring rival demon-disguised boy band Saja Boys as a satirical nod to industry dynamics. The film's soundtrack, including the hit anthem "Golden," propelled its success, accumulating over 500 million views worldwide.

Critical acclaim followed, with nominations for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song at the Academy Awards, set for this weekend. The announcement of the sequel comes amid heightened visibility for the project, boosted by a live performance of "Golden" by vocalists Audrey Nuna, Rei Ami, and EJAE at the BRIT Awards 2026 on March 1 in Manchester. Hosted by Jack Whitehall at Co-op Live, the event marked the first time the BRITs were held in Manchester in its nearly 50-year history, featuring performances from artists including Harry Styles, Olivia Dean, RAYE, and ROSALÍA. The singers, representing the voices of HUNTR/X, delivered lyrics emphasizing themes of self-acceptance and shining authentically: "I'm done hiding. Now I'm shining like I want to be."

While no release date for "KPop Demon Hunters 2" has been specified, the film's blend of high-energy animation, supernatural action, and infectious music has positioned it as a potential launchpad for a new sub-genre merging K-pop with fantasy elements. The original story arc concluded with the Honmoon reinforced and Rumi embracing her true self, setting up narrative possibilities for expanded lore, such as a demonic world tour.

From an LGBT+ perspective, the film's themes of hidden identities, self-discovery, and living authentically resonate strongly within queer communities, particularly through Rumi's journey and the empowering message in "Golden." Vocalists Audrey Nuna, Rei Ami, and EJAE, Asian-American artists bringing HUNTR/X to life, have amplified these narratives on global stages like the BRITs, fostering discussions on representation in K-pop-inspired media. Fans have celebrated the project on platforms like Instagram, with lightsticks symbolizing fandom unity during Oscar anticipation.

Netflix's commitment to the directors underscores confidence in the franchise's trajectory, especially as K-pop's global influence continues to intersect with diverse storytelling. The sequel news, reported today, aligns with the Oscars weekend, where the film's nominations could further elevate its cultural footprint. This development highlights streaming platforms' growing investment in animated projects that fuse music, mythology, and identity exploration for broad audiences.

Raven-Symoné Names Her Disney Channel Mount Rushmore

Photo Credit: Stepping Into The Shade Podcast

by Chris Tremblay Mar 14

2 MIN READ

Raven-Symoné, the actor and singer who rose to fame as the titular character in the Disney Channel series "That's So Raven" from 2003 to 2007, recently revealed her choices for the top four Disney Channel stars, akin to a Mount Rushmore. This disclosure occurred during her guest appearance on the podcast "Stepping Into The Shade Room," hosted by The Shade Room, where she reflected on iconic figures from the network's golden era.

Symoné's selections were Shia LaBeouf, known for Even Stevens; Raven-Symoné herself; Hilary Duff from Lizzie McGuire; and the late Lee Thompson Young, the star of The Famous Jett Jackson. Raven specifically chose Young to give him "his flowers," noting he led the network's first Black-led series. Notably absent were Miley Cyrus and Demi Lovato, whose respective hits, Hannah Montana and Camp Rock, arrived later in the 2000s. When host Thembi Mawema suggested Cyrus, Raven declined, explaining, "Not Miley... she came after," and clarified that her list honors the "architects" who built the Disney Channel's foundation before the subsequent wave of superstars arrived.

The event ties into broader nostalgia for Disney Channel's early 2000s lineup, which launched careers for numerous performers, including several who later came out as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Symoné herself has been open about her queer identity, coming out as gay in 2014 and later identifying more broadly within the LGBTQ+ spectrum; her inclusion of herself underscores personal reflection on that era. While Demi Lovato—who has shared their journey as a non-binary and pansexual person—is a cornerstone of Disney alumni visibility, they were excluded from this specific list as Raven favored the "architects" of the network over the later pop-star phase. Raven's final pick, the late Lee Thompson Young, was recognized for pioneering the network's first Black-led series.

The podcast clip, shared as a YouTube Short by The Shade Room, quickly gained traction, fueling debates among millennials and Gen Z fans reminiscing about after-school viewing. Coverage from outlets like Entertainment Weekly and ComingSoon.net confirmed the details, noting the lighthearted yet divisive nature of such lists. Within LGBTQ+ online communities, reactions celebrated Symoné's self-inclusion as an affirming nod to queer representation in family entertainment, though some expressed curiosity about Cyrus's exclusion given her own evolving public persona.

This moment arrives amid ongoing Disney nostalgia cycles, with reboots like the "Raven's Home" sequel series keeping Symoné connected to the brand. It also reflects how former child stars, particularly transgender people and others in the LGBTQ+ community, continue to shape cultural conversations around their formative roles. No official response from Cyrus or Disney has been reported. The story, unfolding over the past few days, exemplifies harmless celebrity discourse with ripple effects in fan and media spaces.

AMC Announces June 2026 Premiere for 'Interview with the Vampire' Season 3, Titled 'The Vampire Lestat'

Photo Credit: AMC

by Chris Tremblay Mar 15

2 MIN READ

AMC has officially announced that season 3 of Interview with the Vampire, now titled The Vampire Lestat, will premiere in June 2026. The network shared the news via a social media post featuring a promotional poster emphasizing Lestat's transformation into a rock star.

This announcement comes after the season 2 finale aired in June 2024, marking a two-year gap for fans awaiting new episodes. The third season adapts The Vampire Lestat, the second book in Anne Rice's The Vampire Chronicles, centering on Sam Reid's portrayal of Lestat de Lioncourt. In the storyline, Lestat, resentful of his depiction in the fictional bestseller Interview with the Vampire, launches a band and goes on a multi-city tour to set the record straight. His journey includes encounters with figures from his past who hunt him, blending rock and roll themes with supernatural drama.

The series, part of AMC's Anne Rice's Immortal Universe, continues to explore complex relationships among its immortal characters. Previous seasons depicted the turbulent bond between Lestat and Louis de Pointe du Lac, played by Jacob Anderson, including Louis's later relationship with Armand, portrayed by Assad Zaman. Season 3 builds on this by delving into Lestat's perspective, revealing origins and conflicts tied to his history with Louis and Armand.

Returning cast members include Sam Reid as Lestat, Jacob Anderson as Louis, Assad Zaman as Armand, and Eric Bogosian as Daniel Molloy. New additions feature Jennifer Ehle as Lestat's mother Gabriella, alongside Damien Atkins, Ella Ballentine, Jeanine Serralles, and Christopher Heyerdahl. Production has already wrapped, with post-production underway to meet the summer 2026 debut on AMC and AMC+ platforms.

Behind the scenes, Rolin Jones returns as showrunner and executive producer, joined by Mark Johnson, Hannah Moscovitch, Christopher Rice, and references to the late Anne Rice. Sam Reid previously shared excitement about the season, noting filming in Toronto and new music by Daniel Hart: "There's gonna be a lot of music... and I'm really looking forward to everybody hearing those, and unleashing rock star Lestat into the world."

The series has garnered praise for its bold adaptation of Rice's works, emphasizing queer relationships and identities central to the Vampire Chronicles. Lestat and Louis's romance, depicted with emotional depth, resonates with LGBTQ+ audiences, portraying transgender and gay experiences through vampire immortality and societal outsider status. This season's rock tour narrative amplifies themes of self-expression and defiance, aligning with affirming portrayals of LGBTQ+ lives in media. The announcement has sparked fan enthusiasm online, highlighting the show's role in queer representation.

Episodes will air weekly on AMC, with streaming on AMC+ following broadcast. An official opening titles video teases the premiere, building anticipation for Lestat's story. This development expands AMC's Immortal Universe, promising deeper exploration of Rice's enduring characters.

BBC Axes ‘I Kissed a Boy’ and ‘I Kissed a Girl’ TV Series Amid Funding Cuts; Franchise to Continue as Digital-First Visual Podcast

Photo Credit: BBC

by Chris Tremblay Mar 14

3 MIN READ

The BBC has announced the cancellation of I Kissed a Boy and I Kissed a Girl, the United Kingdom's first dating shows exclusively featuring LGBTQ+ participants, due to ongoing funding challenges. In a statement, a BBC spokesperson expressed pride in the series, thanking host Dannii Minogue and producer Twofour, but confirmed there are no current plans for renewal beyond the upcoming second season of I Kissed a Girl, slated for spring 2026.

I Kissed a Boy, which premiered in 2023, was the first British television dating show to feature only gay and bisexual men, with its second season airing in 2025 and including Lars Fellows, the series' first transgender contestant. I Kissed a Girl followed in 2024, spotlighting queer women in a similar format. Both programs placed ten single participants in an Italian masseria, where they were instantly paired and required to kiss before learning each other's names, fostering romantic and platonic connections through challenges and a "kiss off" elimination round.

Dannii Minogue, who hosted both series, described the experience as the most special in her nearly 40-year television career, emphasizing its role in celebrating LGBTQ+ cast members. "Thank you Twofour Productions and BBC for allowing me to be a part of I Kissed a Boy and I Kissed a Girl series, it is such a powerful and important show," Minogue stated, adding pride in its platform for queer stories. She hinted at future possibilities in an Instagram video, saying, "And who knows where the IK series will go from there? Ciao, bella."

Layton Williams from Strictly Come Dancing narrated I Kissed a Boy, while Charley Marlowe provided narration for I Kissed a Girl. The cancellation aligns with broader challenges for LGBTQ+ programming, as Netflix axed The Ultimatum: Queer Love after two seasons, and other queer-led series like Boots and Olympo were also discontinued. GLAAD reports that four in ten queer characters from 2024-2025 television will not return in 2026, amid concerns from figures like Olivia Colman, Alan Cumming, and Bowen Yang about commissioners' reluctance to support LGBTQ+ narratives during diversity, equity, and inclusion rollbacks.

In response to the BBC's decision, former contestant Mikey Connor from season one of I Kissed a Boy posted on X, "Sad too see. A show that needed to happen. Everyone should be PROUD who has been involved." Fans echoed this sentiment, with one stating, "I’ve never seen lesbians more united than during IKAG month what the f****** f*** is this," and another urging, "This needs to be picked up by E4 immediately." These reactions underscore the shows' role in fostering community unity and visibility for diverse LGBTQ+ experiences, including transgender representation.

Amid the news, reports surfaced of a potential lifeline from Twofour, with The Sun's deputy TV editor Felicity Cross claiming on social media a celebrity spin-off titled It Started With a Kiss, hosted by Charley Marlowe, featuring LGBTQ+ celebrities discussing their dating histories. The format would reportedly air on Tinder, YouTube, and Instagram, leveraging the app's history of LGBTQ+ inclusivity, including same-sex matching since 2012, a "More Genders" feature with GLAAD in 2016, and orientation identifiers in 2019. Attitude has sought comment from Tinder, but no official confirmation was available at press time. Both series remain available on BBC iPlayer.

The axing highlights tensions in sustaining queer-focused content on public broadcasters, yet the franchise's innovation in person-first portrayals of gay, bisexual, lesbian, and transgender people has left a lasting mark on UK television.

Maya Rudolph to Make Broadway Debut as Mary Todd Lincoln in 'Oh, Mary!'

Photo Credit: Oh Mary Broadway

by Chris Tremblay Mar 13

2 MIN READ

Maya Rudolph, a six-time Emmy Award-winning comedian best known for her seven seasons on Saturday Night Live and recurring roles in series like Loot and Big Mouth, has been announced as the next star to portray Mary Todd Lincoln in Cole Escola's comedy Oh, Mary! at Broadway's Lyceum Theatre. Rudolph will step into the role beginning Tuesday, April 28, 2026, for a limited eight-week engagement ending June 20, 2026.

In a statement, Rudolph expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity: “Ever since I was a little girl, I have dreamed of being Cole Escola. Oh, Mary! is the funniest play I have ever seen, and I have seen a lot of plays, you’d be surprised. It’s such an honor to play the role of Mary, especially after so many iconic Marys have come before me. So making my Broadway debut in the role of a lifetime—as a miserable, suffocated, alcoholic woman—is a real dream come true.”

The announcement comes as the production extends its Broadway run through January 3, 2027, with new tickets now on sale. Oh, Mary! will also continue in the West End at London's Trafalgar Theatre through July 18, 2026, and launch a North American tour starting in Hartford, Connecticut, in September 2026.

Currently, John Cameron Mitchell, creator and original star of Hedwig and the Angry Inch, leads the Broadway cast as Mary Todd Lincoln through April 26, 2026. The ensemble includes Simu Liu as Mary's Teacher through April 21, John-Andrew Morrison as Mary's Husband, Jenn Harris as Mary's Chaperone, and Tony Macht as Mary's Husband's Assistant. Understudies are Hannah Solow, Martin Landry, and Julian Manjerico.

Rudolph joins a distinguished roster of performers who have embodied the character, including playwright Cole Escola, who originated the role and won the 2025 Tony Award for Lead Actor in a Play; Jinkx Monsoon, a prominent figure in drag and theater celebrated within LGBTQ+ communities; Jane Krakowski; Tituss Burgess; Betty Gilpin; and Hannah Solow.

The play, directed by Sam Pinkleton—who won the 2025 Tony Award for Direction of a Play—presents a comedic, historically reimagined portrait of Mary Todd Lincoln in the weeks before Abraham Lincoln's assassination, as she grapples with repression and dreams of a cabaret career amid Civil War-era White House life.

Oh, Mary! premiered off-Broadway in early 2024 to strong reviews before transferring to Broadway that summer and receiving five Tony nominations.

The production's creative team features scenic designer dots, costume designer Holly Pierson, lighting designer Cha See, composer and co-sound designer Daniel Kluger, co-sound designer Drew Levy, wig designer Leah J. Loukas, music arranger David Dabbon, casting director Henry Russell Bergstein, production stage manager Bryan Bauer, and assistant stage manager Ryan Patrick Kane.

Within LGBTQ+ theater circles, Oh, Mary! has garnered attention for its bold humor and star-driven recasting, spotlighting queer artists like Escola—a nonbinary playwright whose Tony-winning performance celebrated innovative storytelling—and Monsoon, whose involvement underscores the show's resonance with drag and performance communities.

Rudolph's casting continues this tradition, blending mainstream comedy appeal with the production's campy, subversive edge that has drawn diverse audiences to Broadway.

Tickets for Rudolph's run and beyond are available now via official channels.

Streamer Sneako Criticizes Sam Smith in Louis Theroux's Manosphere Documentary

Photo Credit: Netflix

by Chris Tremblay Mar 15

2 MIN READ

Netflix premiered the feature-length documentary "Louis Theroux: Inside the Manosphere" on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. The 90-minute film follows Theroux as he explores the world of online influencers promoting hyper-masculine and "red-pill" ideologies. Among the prominent figures interviewed is American livestreamer Nico Kenn De Balinthazy, known online as Sneako.

In a notable segment filmed at his New York apartment, Sneako launched into a rant against Sam Smith, the Grammy-winning non-binary singer. Labeling Smith a "trans Satanist," Sneako tied the artist to a broader conspiracy theory about a "Satanist cabal" allegedly promoting degeneracy within the music industry. He specifically pointed to Smith’s 2023 Grammy performance of "Unholy"—which featured devil-themed imagery—as evidence of moral decline.

Theroux challenged Sneako’s assertions with visible skepticism, at one point scoffing and telling the streamer, "The world isn’t run by Sam Smith." The documentary highlights how Sneako, who has amassed millions of followers on platforms like Rumble, aligns his rhetoric with figures like Andrew Tate to influence young men’s views on gender norms and LGBTQ+ visibility.

The film is currently streaming globally on Netflix and also features interviews with other manosphere personalities, including Myron Gaines and HSTikkyTokky.

The feature-length documentary "Louis Theroux: Inside the Manosphere" premiered globally on Netflix on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Theroux described the film as an examination of "how these ideas are shaping young men's views on relationships and society," without endorsing or condemning the subjects. Sneako's appearance marks a significant mainstream platform for his brand of content, which has previously been largely confined to sites like Rumble, Kick, and X.

LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have responded to the segment with caution. GLAAD noted that such rhetoric from manosphere influencers contributes to a hostile online environment for transgender and non-binary people, urging media to contextualize these views critically. Stonewall, a UK-based organization supporting LGBTQ+ rights, highlighted the documentary's value in exposing these subcultures but called for the amplification of voices from the communities facing such backlash. As of March 12, 2026, Sam Smith has not publicly commented on Sneako's remarks or the film.

Young Miko Stars in Gap's Spring 2026 Campaign with Reimagined "WASSUP" Video, Marking Milestone for Queer Latina Artist

Photo Credit: Gap / Young Miko / YouTube

by Chris Tremblay Mar 15

2 MIN READ

Gap launched its Spring 2026 campaign on March 10, 2026, with a reimagined music video for GRAMMY-nominated Puerto Rican artist Young Miko's hit song "WASSUP," premiering it on YouTube and Gap's channels. The three-minute video, titled "Sweats Like This," features Young Miko, born María Victoria Ramírez de Arellano Cardona, performing alongside 26 dancers in GapSweats, including grey sweatpants and hoodies transitioning to black athleisure sets against a signature white background.

Directed by Mexican American filmmaker Bethany Vargas, shot by Olivia Malone, choreographed by Zoi Tatopoulos, and styled by Caroline Newell, the production emphasizes an all-women creative team bringing Young Miko's vision to life. Vargas, known for directing KATSEYE's "Better in Denim" Gap ad and projects with artists like Kali Uchis, The Marias, and Lady Gaga, continues Gap's tradition of dance-focused campaigns using white backgrounds, echoing 1990s khakis ads.

Young Miko, a 28-year-old Latin trap rapper and singer who previously worked as a professional soccer player and tattoo artist, has amassed over 752 million YouTube views in the past year, with "WASSUP" alone exceeding 125 million. The original track appeared on her 2025 album "Do Not Disturb," and she has collaborated with artists including Bad Bunny, Karol G, Feid, and Stray Kids, while opening for Billie Eilish in 2025. Her fans, self-identified as "Mikosexuals," generated buzz by leaking snippets on Instagram and Reddit days before the official release.

In a statement, Young Miko emphasized her Puerto Rican roots: "Puerto Rico influences everything I do — the way I talk, express myself, dress, live, and see the world. It’s my home and the culture that shaped who I am today." She added, "This music video was an amazing experience, and working with Gap felt natural because they gave me the space to express myself and my culture authentically. It’s such a beautiful way to keep showing love to a song the fans really connected with. This time there’s dancing, people sharing a new space with me, and I’m very excited for everyone to see it."

Calo News reported Young Miko as the first openly queer Latina featured in a Gap ad, highlighting representation for LGBTQ+ artists in mainstream fashion. In an ELLE interview, she discussed the campaign's joyful impact: "When you’re doing something for a good cause, that’s obviously important. But when it also gets to be fun, that’s when it can have a really special kind of impact." She affirmed her dancing passion, stating, "Everybody is a dancer at heart. It’s something that’s in our blood... It’s a form of expression, which is what art is all about." Young Miko also referenced Bad Bunny's Super Bowl message on love over hate, noting brands like Gap as allies in promoting positivity.

Gap's campaign builds on prior music-driven efforts, such as Troye Sivan's "Get Loose" in 2024 and KATSEYE's viral 2025 ad, using Latin music to foster unity at a pivotal cultural moment. Muse by Clios described it as aligning with Gen-Z values of inclusivity, subverting divisive politics through diverse expression, akin to Bad Bunny and Young Miko's shared Puerto Rican heritage. The video's hypnotic choreography and addictive track have drawn replay praise, positioning GapSweats as symbols of creativity and confidence.

Doja Cat Retracts Criticism of Timothée Chalamet Over Opera and Ballet Comments

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 01: Doja Cat attends the 2025 LACMA Art+Film Gala at Los Angeles County Museum of Art on November 01, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Photo Credit: Frazer Harrison

by Chris Tremblay Mar 13

3 MIN READ

Singer Doja Cat has walked back her public criticism of actor Timothée Chalamet following his remarks dismissing the contemporary relevance of opera and ballet.

The sequence of events began on February 21, 2026, when Chalamet participated in a CNN-Variety town hall in Austin, Texas, alongside actor Matthew McConaughey, discussing the future of the movie industry. During the discussion, Chalamet compared the film industry's challenges to those faced by opera and ballet, stating he would not pursue work in those fields merely to sustain them because "no one cares about anymore."

Chalamet's comments quickly drew backlash from the arts community. The Metropolitan Opera responded pointedly by posting a video of staff preparing for a performance, captioned "This one's for you, Timothée Chalamet," underscoring the vibrancy of their operations. Other opera and ballet institutions echoed this sentiment, defending the enduring popularity and cultural significance of their art forms despite financial struggles in the sector.

On March 9, 2026, Doja Cat joined the criticism of Timothée Chalamet via a video on her TikTok account, @dojacat. In the post, she defended the history of opera and ballet—noting they are approximately 400 and 500 years old, respectively—and argued that opera houses remain "completely packed" with dedicated fans. Intentionally mispronouncing his name, she stated he "had the nerve" to claim no one cares about these art forms, specifically highlighting the "intense pain and suffering" ballet dancers endure out of passion for their craft.

However, Doja Cat's stance shifted rapidly. In a follow-up video posted on March 11, 2026, she retracted her criticism and admitted she had been "virtue signaling" to garner social media approval. She confessed that she has never actually seen an opera or attended a ballet and realized she was speaking on a topic she knew "nothing" about. While she maintained that Chalamet’s phrasing was poor, she admitted she now believes his broader point—that these are struggling, niche industries—is largely true.

This backtrack was covered by Entertainment Weekly and other major outlets, noting Doja Cat’s admission that she used the controversy primarily for "clicks" and to connect with the online outrage culture.

The incident has sparked broader conversations about the perceived decline of classical performing arts in the digital age. While Chalamet has not publicly responded to Doja Cat's initial video or retraction, the exchange underscores tensions between contemporary pop culture figures and traditional arts advocates. Opera and ballet, long-standing pillars of Western cultural heritage, continue to navigate funding issues amid streaming dominance, but recent sold-out performances at major venues counter narratives of irrelevance.

Regarding LGBTQ+ perspectives, opera and ballet have historically served as spaces of expression for queer artists and audiences, with many prominent performers identifying as part of the community. Figures like dancer Rudolf Nureyev and singer Peter Sellars have shaped these genres, and institutions such as the Metropolitan Opera have increasingly featured diverse, inclusive programming. Chalamet's remarks, while not directly targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, intersect with discussions on arts accessibility for marginalized groups, including transgender people and others in the performing arts who rely on these venues for visibility. Community responses on social media have affirmed the importance of sustaining these spaces, with some queer advocates praising Doja Cat's initial defense before her retraction.

Neither Chalamet nor Doja Cat has issued further statements as of March 12, 2026. The brief controversy highlights how celebrity opinions can amplify debates on cultural preservation, even if later moderated.

BBC Renews 'The Celebrity Traitors' for Second Series in 2026 Following Record Audiences

Photo Credit: BBC

by Chris Tremblay Mar 15

2 MIN READ

The BBC has confirmed a second series of 'The Celebrity Traitors' for 2026, building on the success of its debut season that drew record audiences. The announcement came shortly after the finale, where comedian Alan Carr emerged as the winner, revealing himself as a Traitor and claiming the entire £87,500 prize pot for his chosen charity, Neuroblastoma UK.

In the season finale, Carr outmaneuvered fellow contestants comedian Nick Mohammed and TV historian David Olusoga, both Faithfuls, to take home the prize. Reflecting on his victory, Carr stated, "What an incredible honor and a total surprise! If someone had told me in the first week that I’d still be here in the second, I wouldn’t have believed it." He added advice for future players: "You have to love Claudia, embrace the castle, and truly enjoy the game; otherwise, it’s pointless." The series, hosted by Claudia Winkleman, featured 19 celebrities competing in the Scottish Highlands castle, engaging in deception, missions, and banishments.

Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC, commented on the renewal: "Studio Lambert has delivered an exceptional performance, as The Celebrity Traitors has truly enchanted the public, becoming a genuine highlight of the year and attracting record audiences to witness every twist and turn." She continued, "In 2026, the castle will once again open its doors to welcome celebrity contestants into the game, challenging them to charm, conspire, and ultimately endure in what promises to be an equally unmissable second series." The show is produced by Studio Lambert, known for the original 'The Traitors' format.

The renewal coincides with a new Economic Impact Report highlighting the 'Traitors' franchise's contribution of £21.8 million in Gross Value Added to Scotland's economy since filming began in 2022, covering UK, US, and Celebrity editions. Hayley Valentine, Director of BBC Scotland, noted: "The Traitors is a remarkable success story in television, and it’s wonderful to have various versions filmed in Scotland... This report underscores the numerous ways Scotland is reaping direct economic benefits." The filming location in Ardrossan Castle has boosted local tourism and creative sector growth.

While specific celebrity contestants for the second series remain unannounced, the format mirrors the first, with Traitors secretly "murdering" Faithfuls nightly amid group challenges and voting rounds. The UK civilian 'The Traitors' season 4 is also slated for early 2026 on BBC One.

The franchise's global reach includes a US version on Peacock, renewed for season 5 and an all-civilian edition in 2026, hosted by Alan Cumming at the same Scottish castle. Season 3 featured diverse contestants like Bob the Drag Queen, a prominent Black transgender entertainer and winner known for person-first recognition in queer media. No specific LGBTQ+ contestants were named in the UK Celebrity Traitors season 1 coverage, but the format's emphasis on strategy and deception has appealed broadly, including to LGBTQ+ audiences valuing authentic representation in reality TV. The show's success underscores inclusive entertainment's role in fostering diverse viewer engagement.

Episodes of the first Celebrity Traitors series are available on BBC iPlayer. The BBC's three-year deal ensures continued production, aligning with the original Variety report on the renewal.

Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert Address Long-Rumored Feud, Tease Duet on Upcoming Album

NASHVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 11: BMI's Jody Williams, Co-writer Kacey Musgraves and BMI's Clay Bradley Celebrate Miranda Lambert's No.1 Song "Mama's Broken Heart" with co writers Kacey Musgraves, Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally performed by Miranda Lambert at Cabana on September 11, 2013 in Nashville, Tennessee. Photo Credit: Rick Diamond

by Chris Tremblay Mar 15

2 MIN READ

Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert, two prominent figures in country music, have reignited discussions about a rumored feud originating in 2011 over the song "Mama's Broken Heart." Musgraves co-wrote the track with Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, and it became a multi-platinum hit for Lambert, peaking at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Country Airplay chart and certified 3× Platinum by the RIAA, with over 1,960,000 units sold. Reports indicate Lambert expressed interest in recording the song during her wedding weekend to Blake Shelton in 2011, when she was a bigger artist at the time, leading Musgraves to relinquish it despite initial reluctance, as it benefited her co-writers.

Tensions reportedly peaked at the 2013 CMA Awards, where Lambert won Female Vocalist of the Year and gave a shout-out to Musgraves, who had won New Artist of the Year and was nominated in the same category alongside Lambert for "Mama's Broken Heart" in Single and Song of the Year. Cameras captured Musgraves' unenthusiastic reaction, which became a viral meme still circulated among fans.

The feud appeared to resurface playfully in early March 2026 when Musgraves shared the 2013 CMA clip on her Instagram stories over the first weekend of the month, captioning it: "You knew I’d said some things about you" with an eye-rolling emoji, tagging Lambert. Lambert quickly reposted it on her own Instagram stories, responding: "Well I’ve done my fair share of s*** talkin’ too." Fans and industry observers interpreted the exchange as teasing lyrics from an upcoming song, signaling reconciliation rather than conflict.

On March 11, 2026, Musgraves confirmed the speculation in an NPR interview while announcing her new studio album, Middle of Nowhere, slated for release on May 1. One track, "Horses and Divorces," is a duet with Lambert, inspired by their mutual interests in horses and divorces—Musgraves saw Lambert riding a horse on Instagram, prompting the idea. Musgraves recounted reaching out to Lambert: "I know we’ve had our s–t over the years, but listen, we’ve at least got two things in common... I’m not trying to be your friend... But I think this would be a pretty f–king funny song, and we should write it with Shane ." They collaborated, airing out past issues, laughing, and writing the song in a few hours, which Musgraves described as "very full circle."

Musgraves reflected that giving up "Mama's Broken Heart" allowed her to write "Merry Go Round," the lead single from her debut album Same Trailer Different Park, better suiting her style. She noted the duet represents "a micro representation of what I wish that the world would do sometimes," highlighting reconciliation. Both artists, Texas natives, had lost touch and were not friends prior, but this project bridges that gap.

While the story centers on country music dynamics, it underscores themes of professional rivalry turning to collaboration, with no direct LGBTQ+ community responses documented in coverage. Fans have celebrated the development online, viewing it as the end of a longstanding Nashville rumor.