Entertainment
FENDER RELEASES THE PLAYER II SERIES, A CATALYST TO UNITE THE NEXT-GENERATION OF PLAYERS
The World’s Best-Selling Guitar Series Just Got Better: Player II Boasts Premium Specs and Never-Released Vintage Car-Inspired Colorways
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /PRNewswire/ — Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today announces the arrival of the Player II Series – an update to Fender’s long-standing best-selling electric series, the Player Series – designed for musicians ready to take the next step in their creative journey.
Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here:
https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9221551-fender-releases-the-player-ii-series/
Since its inception in 2018, the Player Series has shown nearly 30% consecutive year-over-year growth globally and holds rank as Fender’s best-selling range of electric guitars of all time due to its accessible features that both capture the imagination of new players and satisfy the demands of more experienced guitarists alike. Available now, the Player II Series takes the best of its predecessor’s features and improves them with upgraded specs like rosewood fingerboards, modern “C” necks with rolled edges, and new vintage colors from the vaults exemplifying the innovation, culture, community, and lifestyle synonymous with Fender® Electrics.
At a time when data1 shows the global music industry is booming, with revenue at its highest since 1999 – the Player II series continues to inspire the next generation of musicians, ushering in a new kind of guitar player that takes creativity to a new level. The just-released lineup of models up the ante on the previous range with numerous innovative details and specs, new options for chambered ash and chambered mahogany bodies and never-released vintage colorways – Coral Red, Aquatone Blue, Hialeah Yellow and Birch Green – ’50s and ’60s vintage car colors pulled from the archives.
The 2024 campaign for the Player II Series, “The All New Player II” marks one of Fender’s most significant debuts yet. It begins with an electrifying hero film blending four distinctive renditions of The Kinks’ timeless hit, “All Day & All of the Night,” set in unique environments. For the film, All Day and All of the Night: The All New Player II Series | Fender®, Fender has partnered with acclaimed artists Julien Baker, singer-songwriter from Memphis and 1/3 of boygenius, DIIV, influential indie rock band, content creator and touring bassist (Fever 333) April Kae and alternative rock trio Wallows. The campaign includes four product marketing vignettes with the same artists and environments, skillfully highlighting key features of the Player II Series.
In addition to the hero film and ten product demo videos, Exploring the Player II Series, the multi-pronged campaign debuts various content pieces:
- Player II Sessions, featuring performances and interviews with the four campaign artists, Julien Baker, DIIV, Wallows and April Kae, each showcasing an original performance. Watch the first Fender Session, featuring interview and performance by Wallows: Wallows Sessions | The Player II Series | Fender
- New Fender series featuring Fender Next artists – Militarie Gun (Los Angeles), Joy Oladokun (Nashville), English Teacher (Leeds), Vacations (Australia), and additional content with artists based in Japan and China. Each docu-style episode will capture a “day in the life” of being a Player with the artists as they prepare for a show.
- The Modern Creator, campaign series features stories through the eyes of four content creators, Monica Valli, Mary Spender, Gabriel Takei and Dovydas, as they share their unique musical journeys.
- Player I vs. Player II Side By Sides, engaging select channels, such as Andy Ferris, for side-by-side comparisons highlighting the improvements from Player to Player II guitars and bases.
“The Player II Series represents our continued evolution in design and functionality,” said Justin Norvell, EVP of Product, FMIC. “We listened to the feedback from musicians around the world and incorporated their insights to refine and innovate our instruments. The re-introduction of rosewood fingerboards is a restoration of the ‘original Fender recipe’ and will no doubt be a fan favorite – but we didn’t want to stop there. We’ve also incorporated our rolled fingerboard edges for a broken-in feel, upgraded hardware, and have some new body options as well- which underscores our commitment to providing players and creators with the tools they need to express their unique sound and style. The Player II Series is not just an upgrade, it’s a detailed re-imagining of our core silhouettes, highlighting our dedication to quality and the continuous refinement of our instruments.”
Additionally, Player II offers new options for chambered ash and chambered mahogany bodies for the Player II Stratocaster and Telecaster models, which will be available in October. Designed for musicians ready to elevate their craft, the Player II Series sets a new standard for quality and performance in the mid-price range. Series includes:
- Player II Stratocaster®
- Player II HSS Stratocaster®
- Player II Telecaster®
- Player II Jazzmaster®
- Player II Jaguar®
- Player II Mustang®
- Player II LH Stratocaster®
- Player II HH Telecaster®
- Player II LH Telecaster®
- Player II Precision Bass®
- Player II Jazz Bass®
- Player II Mustang Bass®
“Music is about a multisensory experience and the P-Bass provides that. It feels great to wear, it sounds great and it looks incredible. It’s classic but always feels current. It always feels relevant and that’s not something that can be said about any product let alone a guitar.” April Kae.
“This guitar feels like a magic guitar that fell into my hands and it’s perfect. I feel like I’m constantly chasing that one guitar and this is just perfect.” Zachary Cole Smith, DIIV
“The Player II Series Stratocaster feels like a great guitar and I was impressed by how it played very easy and simple. The tones are great. I think people are going to enjoy it.” Braeden Lemasters, Wallows
High-resolution artist, lifestyle, and product images can be found HERE.
For technical specs, additional information on new Fender products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender.
1 Billboard states the music industry’s total revenue in 2024 is $28.6 billion, which is the highest it’s been since 1999, not accounting for inflation.
PLAYER II SERIES MODELS:
Player II Stratocaster® ($799.99 – $899.99 USD, £739.00 – £809.00 GBP, €869.00 – €949.00 EUR, $1,299.00 – $1,449.00 AUD, ¥104,500 – ¥121,000 JPY) The Player II Stratocaster® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. Choose from alder, chambered ash or chambered mahogany bodies available in both classic Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Strat® pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 5-way blade switch lets you dial in everything from glassy neck pickup cleans to rowdy bridge pickup snarl and all points in between, while a 2-point tremolo and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities. Available in LH model. Offered in Chambered Ash and Chambered Mahogany bodies.
Player II HSS Stratocaster® ($829.99 – $929.99 USD, £759.00 – £829.00 GBP, €889.00 – €969.00 EUR, $1,349.00 – $1,499.00 AUD, ¥108,900 -126,500 JPY ) The Player II Stratocaster® HSS radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. Choose from alder, chambered ash or chambered mahogany bodies available in both classic Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Strat® pickups and a Player Series Alnico II humbucker offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 5-way blade switch lets you dial in everything from glassy neck pickup chime to rowdy bridge pickup roar and all points in between, while a 2-point tremolo and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.
Player II Telecaster® ($799.99 – $899.99 USD, £739.00 – £809.00 GBP, €869.00 – €949.00 EUR, $1,299.00 – $1,449.00 AUD, ¥104,500 – ¥121,000 JPY) The Player II Telecaster® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. Choose from alder, chambered ash or chambered mahogany bodies available in both classic Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Tele® pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way blade switch lets you dial in everything from smooth neck pickup chime to cutting bridge pickup twang and all points in between, while a 6-saddle bridge, block steel saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities. Available in LH model. Offered in Chambered Ash and Chambered Mahogany bodies.
Player II HH Telecaster® ($829.99 USD, £769.00 GBP, €899.00 EUR, $1,349.00 AUD, ¥108,900 JPY) The Player II Telecaster® HH radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico II humbuckers offer articulate highs, muscular mids and chunky lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way blade switch lets you dial in everything from creamy neck pickup warmth to rowdy bridge pickup roar and all points in between, while a 6-saddle bridge, bent steel saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.
Player II Jaguar® ($829.99 USD, £759.00 GBP, €889.00 EUR, $1,349.00 AUD, ¥108,900 JPY) The Player II Jaguar® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V (Bridge) and Alnico II (Neck) Single-Coil Jaguar® pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way blade switch lets you easily dial in everything from glassy neck pickup chime to cutting bridge pickup bite and all points in between, while a 6-saddle Jaguar bridge with Floating Tremolo, upgraded Mustang® saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.
Player II Jazzmaster® ($829.99 USD, £759.00 GBP, €889.00 EUR, $1,349.00 AUD, ¥108,900 JPY) The Player II Jazzmaster® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Jazzmaster pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way toggle switch lets you easily dial in everything from glassy neck pickup chime to cutting bridge pickup bite and all points in between, while a 6-saddle Jazzmaster bridge with Floating Tremolo, upgraded Mustang® saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.
Player II Mustang® ($799.99 USD, £619.00 GBP, €729.00 EUR, $1,299.00 AUD, ¥104,500 JPY) The Player II Mustang® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil Mustang® pickups offer crystalline highs, musical mids and tight lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way toggle switch lets you easily dial in everything from glassy neck pickup chime to cutting bridge pickup snarl and all points in between, while a 6-saddle hardtail bridge, bent steel saddles and ClassicGear™ tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.
Player II Precision Bass® ($799.99 USD, £839.00 GBP, €979.00 EUR, $1,299.00 AUD, ¥104,500 JPY) The Player II Precision Bass® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 20 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Split-Coil P Bass® pickups offer sweet highs, musical mids and seismic lows that elevate any genre. An adjustable 4-saddle bridge, single-groove steel saddles and open-gear tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.
Player II Jazz Bass® ($799.99 USD, £839.00 GBP, €979.00 EUR, $1,299.00 AUD, ¥104,500 JPY) The Player II Jazz Bass® radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 20 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Single-Coil J Bass® pickups offer sweet highs, growling mids and seismic lows that elevate any genre. An adjustable 4-saddle bridge, single-groove steel saddles and open-gear tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.
Player II Mustang® Bass ($799.99 USD, £679.00 GBP, €799.00 EUR, $1,299.00 AUD, ¥104,500 JPY) The Player II Mustang® Bass PJ radiates timeless Fender charm, but under the hood, it’s primed for today’s players. Everything about the neck is designed for fast and fluid playability, from the Modern “C”-profile with silky satin urethane finish on the back to the comfy 9.5″-radius slab rosewood or maple fingerboard with smooth rolled edges and 20 medium jumbo frets. A classic alder body is available in both timeless Fender finishes and never-before-seen colors unearthed from the archives. Player Series Alnico V Split-Coil P Bass® and Single-Coil J Bass® pickups offer sweet highs, growling mids and seismic lows that elevate any genre. The 3-way toggle switch lets you easily dial in everything this versatile pickup set has to offer, while an adjustable 4-saddle bridge, single-groove steel saddles and open-gear tuners ensure precise tuning stability for the flexibility to explore endless sonic possibilities.
ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:
Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC)–whose portfolio of owned and licensed brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch® guitars, Jackson®, EVH®, Charvel®, Bigsby® and PreSonus® – follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest-quality instruments and digital experiences across genres. Since 2015, Fender’s digital arm has introduced a new ecosystem of products and interactive experiences to accompany players at every stage of their musical journey. This includes innovative apps and learning platforms designed to complement Fender guitars, amplifiers, effects pedals, accessories and pro-audio gear, and inspire players through an immersive musical experience. FMIC is dedicated to unlocking the power of musical expression for all players, from beginners to history-making legends. In 2021, Fender celebrated 75 years of giving artists “wings to fly,” carrying on the vision of its founder, Leo Fender, and connecting players through a shared love of music.
Fender (standard and stylized), Stratocaster, Strat, Telecaster, Tele, Jazzmaster, Jaguar, Mustang, Precision Bass, P Bass, Jazz Bass, J Bass are trademarks of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation and/or its affiliates, registered in the U.S. and other countries. ClassicGear is a trademark of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation and/or its affiliates.
All other product and company names may be trademarks of their respective owners and may be used herein under license. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by or of the respective owners.
SOURCE Fender Musical Instruments Corp.
Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at [insert website URL] and let your entertainment journey begin! https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/
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Lucas Museum: Celebrating Narrative Art in LA
“Discover the captivating world of narrative art at the Lucas Museum in LA, founded by George Lucas and Mellody Hobson.”
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is a remarkable addition to the vibrant cultural landscape of Los Angeles, California. Established by acclaimed filmmaker George Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson, the museum is poised to become a pivotal hub for visual storytelling across diverse artistic forms.
Lucas Museum
Nestled in Exposition Park, the museum features an extensive collection encompassing myriad artistic mediums. From striking paintings and evocative photography to intricate sculptures and compelling illustrations, the Lucas Museum is dedicated to celebrating the transformative power of narrative art, engaging audiences, and conveying profound messages through its exhibitions. As the museum evolves, it continues to enrich the conversation around art and storytelling, inviting visitors to experience narratives that resonate on multiple levels.
One of the standout features of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The museum aims to celebrate art from a multitude of cultures and backgrounds, giving voice to underrepresented narratives and perspectives. This focus on inclusivity is not only manifested in the museum’s eclectic collection but is also vividly reflected in its thoughtfully crafted programming and community outreach initiatives. By engaging with local communities and diverse artists, the museum fosters a rich dialogue that honors different traditions and storytelling techniques.
Designed by the acclaimed architect Ma Yansong of MAD Architects, the museum’s stunning building is a work of art in itself. Its unique and innovative architecture seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment, creating a harmonious space that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse world of storytelling. The dynamic design features flowing forms and open spaces, allowing natural light to play a crucial role in enhancing the overall aesthetic experience. This architectural masterpiece not only serves as a physical shelter for art but also symbolizes the fluid nature of narrative.
The museum’s website, lucasmuseum.org, offers a captivating glimpse into its vision and future exhibits, generating palpable excitement among art enthusiasts and fans of George Lucas’s cinematic legacy alike. It serves as a vital platform for engaging with the museum’s mission and provides ongoing updates about various programs and events that aim to foster a sense of community and anticipation leading up to its grand opening.
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art stands as a testament to the profound power of storytelling to inspire, educate, and unite people from all walks of life. It embodies George Lucas’s passion for narrative and creativity, creating a space where art can be experienced, appreciated, and understood in its many forms. The museum will not only display art but also offer educational workshops, lectures, and events that will enrich the visitor experience and promote a deeper understanding of narrative as a vital component of human experience.
As the museum prepares to open its doors, the anticipation continues to build, with Los Angeles eagerly awaiting the opportunity to explore the rich world of narrative art. The Lucas Museum promises to become a cultural landmark—an inspiring venue where imagination and creativity converge. It aims to be a place where the stories that shape our lives are not just preserved, but celebrated and explored, ensuring that the legacy of narrative art endures for generations to come.
The museum is set to open in 2025…
For more information please visit: https://lucasmuseum.org/
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Movie and television Reviews
Exploring the Top 10 Essential “Star Trek: The Next Generation” Episodes
Explore the top 10 episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation, featuring powerful stories, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes.
Star Trek: The Next Generation
As a lifelong fan of Star Trek: The Next Generation, I’ve journeyed through the stars with Captain Picard and his remarkable crew, absorbing the profound lessons and intricate storytelling that have come to define this iconic series. After watching all the episodes, I’m excited to share my selection of the top ten episodes, chosen for their storytelling quality and their impact on fans over the years.
1. The Best of Both Worlds
This exhilarating two-part episode redefined the stakes in Star Trek lore by introducing the sinister Borg, an alien collective that assimilated cultures into their own. The chilling narrative intensifies as Captain Picard is captured and transformed, culminating in a heart-stopping showdown that forever changed the landscape of the series. It’s a masterclass in tension and character development.
2. Yesterday’s Enterprise
In this gripping journey through time, the Enterprise-D is unexpectedly thrust into a parallel universe where the Federation is embroiled in conflict with the Klingons. The emotional return of Tasha Yar and the poignant sacrifice of the USS Enterprise-C convey deep messages about the costs of war and the weight of choices made. This episode beautifully explores the concept of parallel timelines and what it means to fight for a cause.
3. The Inner Light
Often hailed as one of the show’s finest achievements, this episode sees Captain Picard knocked unconscious and lives an entire lifetime in just a few minutes. It delves into love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of existence, leaving viewers with a profound message about cherishing moments and relationships. The storytelling here is a testament to the art of character-driven narratives.
4. All Good Things…
As the series finale, this two-part episode brings Captain Picard’s journey full circle. The narrative weaves together time travel, existential dilemmas, and the fate of humanity in a thrilling fashion. With beloved characters standing by, it offers poignant reflections on growth, friendship, and the enduring spirit of exploration, all while delivering a satisfying conclusion that fans cherish.
5. Chain of Command
This intense two-part episode confronts the harsh realities of warfare and the ethics surrounding torture. With Patrick Stewart delivering a performance that lingers in memory, Captain Picard’s capture and subsequent torment by the Cardassians elevate the discussion of morality in times of conflict. It poses challenging questions about humanity, resistance, and the choices we make under extreme pressure.
6. The Measure of a Man
This landmark episode scrutinizes the essence of sentience and rights of artificial intelligence as Data finds himself on trial to determine if he is a person or merely a machine. The thought-provoking dialogue and ethical dilemmas resonate deeply, prompting viewers to consider what it truly means to be human. It raises timeless questions that continue to echo in today’s discussions of AI.
7. Darmok
In a remarkable exploration of communication and cultural barriers, the Enterprise encounters an alien race that communicates solely through allegory and metaphor. This captivating episode demonstrates the challenges and triumphs of understanding between disparate civilizations, ultimately illustrating the universal need for connection. It’s an inspiring reminder of the power of language and empathy.
8. The Offspring
When Data creates a daughter, we’re invited to explore profound themes of parenthood and the definition of humanity. The emotional depth of this episode, combined with Brent Spiner’s standout performance, makes this a heartwarming and impactful story about creation, love, and the responsibilities that come with it.
9. The Wounded
This thought-provoking episode addresses the moral complexities of warfare and the pursuit of vengeance. Captain Sisko’s struggle to stop a rogue Starfleet captain who is targeting Cardassian ships examines the toll that conflict takes on both sides and the lingering scars of resentment. It urges viewers to consider the ramifications of our actions and the possibility of redemption.
10. Cause and Effect
Caught in a gripping time loop, the crew of the Enterprise-D faces the challenge of breaking free from predestined events. This cleverly crafted episode provides thrilling suspense and delves into themes of fate and free will. The intricate storytelling, combined with a clever resolution, makes it a standout installment that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Conclusion
These ten episodes exemplify the greatness of Star Trek: The Next Generation, showcasing powerful storytelling, richly developed characters, and the thought-provoking themes that inspire generations. Each episode has left lasting impressions and continues to resonate with fans, contributing to the enduring legacy of this beloved series. So, whether you’re a longtime follower or a newcomer, these episodes are a must-watch as they encapsulate the very essence of what makes Star Trek a cultural phenomenon. Boldly go where few have gone before!
Experience the full series on Paramount +.https://www.paramountplus.com/shows/star_trek_the_next_generation/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Trek:_The_Next_Generation
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Jessica Maddox, University of Alabama
Ruby Franke was once one of the most popular YouTube family vloggers, posting videos featuring her husband and six children on her channel, 8 Passengers, that racked up over 1 billion views.
In some, she chronicled their family vacations and family activities, such as painting together. In others, she detailed how she banned her 16-year-old son from sleeping in his bedroom for seven months and threatened to behead a stuffed animal.
In August 2023, Franke was charged with child abuse and pleaded guilty four months later.
While the crimes that led to the charges, such as denying her kids water and handcuffing them for extended periods of time, didn’t appear on 8 Passengers, her children viewed the vlogging as a larger pattern of abuse.
In October 2024, 21-year-old Shari Franke, Ruby’s oldest daughter, testified to Utah lawmakers about what being a child influencer against her will had done to her.
“I come today as a victim of family vlogging,” Shari said, “to shed light on the ethical and monetary issues that come from being a child influencer.” She added, “If I could go back and do it all again, I’d rather have an empty bank account now and not have my childhood plastered all over the internet. No amount of money I received has made what I’ve experienced worth it.”
Her testimony took place just a few weeks after California passed a law mandating that a portion of proceeds from social media content featuring kids must be set aside in a trust for the child when they turn 18.
I’m a social media researcher who’s spent the past two years advocating for the children of family vloggers. As recently as 18 months ago, I’d written about how there were no legal protections for the children of influencers, even as child actors have robust laws in place to protect their earnings.
Now that’s starting to change – but there’s still more work to be done.
New laws for a new age
Some children featured in their parents’ social media content go viral as toddlers; others have their first menstrual cycles broadcast to the world; and they can be pressured by their parents to be the talent that sustains their family’s financial livelihood.
California has the Coogan Act, which protects the financial interests of entertainers under 18. But this was passed in 1939, long before the rise of social media; until recently, there has been no comparable Coogan Act for the children of family vloggers.
In August 2023, however, Illinois became the first U.S. state to pass a law protecting the financial interests of the children of family vlogging. The bill requires parents to put aside 50% of the earnings for a piece of content featuring their child. The money must go into a trust that the child can access upon turning 18. If there’s no money available for them, they can sue their parents.
Minnesota was the next state to pass this kind of legislation, in May 2024. This one went beyond financial considerations, prohibiting children under 14 from appearing in more than 30% of their parents’ social media content. If children do appear in these videos and the videos are monetized, money must be put into an account, similar to Illinois.
In December 2023, I consulted with legislators on drafts of California’s measure. This bill, which was signed into law in September 2024, is similar to Illinois’ law but has been considered an important step in regulating family vlogging content given the state’s relationship with the entertainment industry.
Work is work
These laws are not geared toward the casual parent who wants to share a picture of their child on Facebook or Instagram. They’re putting guardrails in place for a form of child labor that, until recently, has gone wildly unchecked.
In the spring of 2024, I provided written testimony to the state of Missouri, which was considering its own law. I pointed out that there are more than 500 hours of video uploaded to YouTube every minute, TikTok boasts more than 150 million active monthly users in the U.S. alone, and Instagram users watch 17.6 million hours of Reels per day. I explained how, over the past decade, I’ve interviewed over 150 content creators and influencers – and I’ll often hear them say they’ve been paid upward of $8,000 per post.
Brand sponsorships remain a gray area in these laws; most of the new legislation encompasses only payments directly from platforms. But I want to emphasize that we’re not talking about a few extra bucks here and there. It can be enough money to raise a family. And it’s work – for everyone involved.
What’s next
Illinois, Minnesota and California may have passed laws, but the issue remains on the table elsewhere.
Washington state has tried to introduce such a bill, and Shari Franke’s testimony came as Utah begins considering its own legislation. https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y2xi4-IMnTc?wmode=transparent&start=0 Ruby Franke’s oldest daughter, Shari, testifies before the Utah Legislature in October 2024.
However, I believe that any work on combating the problem of exploiting children for social media demands a holistic approach.
Importantly, children cannot consent to appearing in their parents’ content. While it may seem fun to appear in mom or dad’s video, young children have no concept of the internet’s dangers. They don’t understand that content can move beyond its intended audience. They don’t understand that the internet is forever – that one day, when they’re applying to college or for jobs, Google search results may yield their baby photos.
In 2023, Maryland attempted to introduce legislation that would include Right To Be Forgotten provisions – an addendum allowing children to request social media platforms delete content about them when they turn 18. The measure never gained momentum, and the bill stalled. But states can look to the European Union, which has some of the strongest Right to Be Forgotten legislation in the world, for inspiration.
Social media platforms also have a role to play. If they wanted to, they could regulate or ban monetized content centered on children. That being said, family vlogging content is a moneymaker for platforms: It racks up billions of views, which keeps audiences on the hosting site, such as YouTube or Instagram, for longer. So you might assume that platforms would never intervene on their own if it risked hurting their bottom line.
But one thing I’ve learned from studying social media platform governance is that public opinion matters. And in my ongoing research on family vlogging, I’ve witnessed a massive shift in public opinion over the past two years, as the press pays more attention to the phenomenon, content creators and audiences are more critical of it, and former children of family vloggers, like Shari Franke, tell their stories.
If platforms can quickly churn out their own versions of AI chatbots, they can build teams to figure out how to help regulate and enforce family vlogging legislation in the U.S. – and have the opportunity, in my view, to be on the right side of history.
Jessica Maddox, Assistant Professor of Journalism and Creative Media, University of Alabama
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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