Columnist Mary McNamara looks at the debate between J.K. Rowling and her detractors over her stance on trans people through the lens of a news podcast.
J.K. Rowling continues to insist she's not transphobic while making transphobic statements. Will the new podcast "The Witch Trials of J.K. Rowling" clear things up? Consider the title.
James Cameron's "Avatar: The Way of Water" has surpassed "Titanic" as the third highest-grossing movie of all time at the worldwide box office. Both films have grossed more than $2 billion.
New Mexico prosecutors have downgraded the involuntary manslaughter penalty against actor and producer Alec Baldwin for the "Rust" shooting that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.
L.A. County has lost more than 270,000 residents in two years. So why are costs still so high? Maybe it's the fact that the city isn't changing fast enough.
Rupert Holmes has written hit songs, a Broadway smash, a TV show and mystery novels including "Murder Your Employer." His work is still about 'escape.'
Today, SCOTUS will be hearing oral arguments in a case that's centered on Section 230. The rule is part of the 1996 Communications Decency Act and protects online platforms from lawsuits over the content users post. Now, that could change. In 2016, the family of a 23-year-old American college student who was killed during the 2015 Paris terror attacks sued Google. They claim the algorithm on YouTube — owned by Google — promoted extremist content that ultimately led to their daughter's death. For years, lower courts have argued Section 230 protects Google from the suit. Now, the legal battle's reached the Supremes.
What can we expect?
Justice Clarence Thomas has previously said the Supreme Court should scale back Section 230. Depending on how the conservative-leaning bench goes, the case could help decide if tech companies from Reddit to Tinder are liable for targeted ads or how their algorithms spread content. In the meantime, Google and its supporters worry changes to the law may cause platforms to remove content out of fear of being sued — stifling free speech in the process. Critics of the law say algorithms need to be kept in check and aren't covered by Section 230 because they can promote misinformation and spread hateful content. A final decision in this case isn't expected until June.
theSkimm
Today's oral arguments are one of two cases involving online platforms that were founded years after Section 230 was created. Depending on how the high court rules, there could be long-lasting changes to how people communicate and interact on the internet.
Kyiv. Yesterday, President Biden made a surprise visit to Ukraine — days before the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion. During the visit, Biden promised to stand by Ukraine and announced another $500 million in military aid. It adds to the more than $27 billion in aid the US has signed off on — including high-tech tanks. However, Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, say their military needs access to more advanced weapons if the war is going to end. Both Zelenskyy and Biden called the trip "historic." Russia was notified beforehand that Biden would be in Kyiv. Meanwhile, today, Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed the West for the war in Ukraine.
What people are watching…
Turkey and Syria. Yesterday, a 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkey and northwestern Syria, killing at least six people and injuring hundreds of others. It comes two weeks after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake killed more than 46,000 people and rocked the two countries' infrastructure. Now, there are reports that people tried to rush to safety — running into the streets from fear that buildings could collapse again. Many residents are living in temporary shelters after their homes were destroyed. Over the weekend, Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Turkey and said the US is committed to helping the country rebuild.
Whose case has updates…
Alec Baldwin's. The Santa Fe District Attorney's Office has downgraded one of the charges against the actor. Last month, prosecutors charged Baldwin with two counts of involuntary manslaughter in the death of 42-year-old cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. One of the charges included a firearm enhancement penalty, which carried a mandatory five-year prison sentence if convicted. Now, the DA's office has dropped the penalty in an effort to "avoid further litigious distractions" by Baldwin and his attorneys. It comes as Baldwin is expected to make his first court appearance on Friday. He still faces up to 18 months in prison if convicted of involuntary manslaughter.
What you might see trending…
#BAFTAsSoWhite. Over the weekend, the British Academy Film Awards got flack after all of the 49 winners at the film ceremony were white. This year, nearly 40% of acting nominees were people of color. The awards program went through an overhaul, leading to a more diverse set of nominees and winners…at least for a little bit. Now, it seems not much has changed since the awards show was called out for its all-white winners in 2020. It has critics asking if the changes actually worked or were more of a temporary fix.
We're two months into 2023, and if you're saying "New Year's Resolutions, don't know her," you're not alone. Research says 80% of New Year's resolutions fail by early February.
One easy way to stick to your health goals alllll year long? LetsGetChecked. They offer easy-to-use, at-home tests for vitamin deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and thyroid conditions, just to name a few. Just send in a sample, and you'll get your secure results online in two to five days. Plus they offer virtual consultations with clinicians and prescription fulfillment. Your health goals = unlocked.
Skimm Life
Tired of the same ol' dinner and a movie from your couch? We have other ideas for winter date nights with your honey. Check out:
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. A stock-up-worthy sale on bras, undies, and oh so much more. It's not every day we can save on super comfy LIVELY staples. Buuuut right now, they're giving Skimm'rs 50% off tons of styles — swim and lounge included. Don't mind if we do.*
2. A virtual yearbook that'll help you H.A.G.T.S. (Have a great tax szn.) This year, we teamed up with TaxAct and created an interactive look back at your 2022. Think: fast facts, dates to remember, and a tax personality quiz. Wonder-file.*
3. A new launch from beloved brand Great Jones. You know 'em for their bakeware, but what about their glassware? Say hello to gorgeous measuring cups. Yes, please.
4. On-sale baby essentials that'll make the everyday a bit easier. Like a 2-in-1 rocker and a wireless baby camera. Parents, you got this.
Psst...looking for more discounts on brands Skimm'rs love? Check out all of our exclusive promo codes here.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
On the run…Keylin L (DC). She is currently training to run 10 miles in April — a personal milestone for her. Keylin is raising funds for her local Children's Miracle Network Hospital. Check it out.
