Entertainment
Remembering Linda Lavin: A Trailblazing Talent and Icon of American Television
It is with profound sadness that we bid farewell to the incomparable Linda Lavin, who left us at the age of 87 after bravely battling complications from recently discovered lung cancer. Lavin’s extraordinary career stands as a testament to her exceptional talent, unwavering resilience, and deep passion for her art, and she leaves behind a legacy that will be treasured by her devoted fans and fellow artists for years to come.
Linda Lavin
Born in Portland, Maine, Lavin found her way to the bright lights of Broadway after graduating from the College of William and Mary. She began her career singing in nightclubs and ensemble productions, but her extraordinary talent caught the eye of iconic producer Hal Prince. This led to her breakout role in the Broadway musical It’s a Bird… It’s a Plane… It’s Superman, setting the stage for a illustrious career ahead.
Lavin’s journey through the entertainment industry was marked by both critical acclaim and widespread popularity, most notably as the star of the beloved sitcom Alice. Drawing inspiration from Martin Scorsese’s film Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, the show debuted in 1976, introducing audiences to Alice Hyatt—an everywoman character who worked as a waitress in a diner while raising her young son after becoming a widow. With her iconic paper hat and a warm, relatable demeanor, Lavin became a symbol of perseverance for working moms everywhere.
The show, which featured unforgettable catchphrases like “Kiss my grits!”, quickly became a hit, reaching the top ten in ratings for several years. Lavin’s portrayal of Alice resonated deeply with viewers, making them laugh and cry in equal measure. Her musical talent shone through as she crooned the show’s theme song, “There’s a New Girl in Town,” which remains etched in the hearts of fans.
In addition to her television success, Lavin was a force on Broadway, earning a Tony Award for her outstanding performance in Neil Simon’s Broadway Bound. Her ability to capture the complexity of characters—from a self-described nag in The Lyons to the frazzled yet witty protagonist in Collected Stories—showcased her remarkable range and depth as an actress.
Despite her impressive accolades in theater, Lavin never lost sight of her roots. Her dedication to her craft continued to shine through in recent years, as she actively participated in projects, including a new Netflix series, No Good Deed—a testament to her enduring passion for storytelling. She was also busy filming for the forthcoming Hulu series, Mid-Century Modern, until her untimely passing, reminding us all how vibrant and dedicated she was right up to the end.
Beyond her roles on screen and stage, Lavin’s legacy is also defined by her commitment to nurturing the next generation of performers. Her mantra, “work brings work,” reflects her belief in the value of persistence and seizing every opportunity. This wisdom, offered to aspiring actresses, continues to inspire those seeking a place in the competitive world of entertainment.
The warmth of Lavin’s spirit extended beyond her work; her dedication to the arts included co-founding the Red Barn Studio Theatre in Wilmington, North Carolina, where she produced and starred in numerous acclaimed plays. It became a haven for creativity, showcasing both timeless classics and contemporary works to an appreciative audience.
As we mourn the loss of Linda Lavin, we celebrate the joy, laughter, and inspiration she brought into our lives through her performances. Whether it was the role of a struggling waitress fighting for her dreams or a beloved mother bringing her family together, Lavin’s characters became an integral part of our cultural fabric. She will always be remembered as a talented actress and an unforgettable icon, reminding us to embrace every moment, and that it’s never too late to pursue our passions.
Thank you, Linda, for sharing your light with us. You will be missed, but your legacy will live on through the countless lives you touched. Rest in peace, dear Alice.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linda_Lavin
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amusement and theme parks
Six Flags Magic Mountain Unveils Record-Setting ‘Thrill Glider’ Coaster for 2027
Six Flags Magic Mountain is taking flight in 2027 with Thrill Glider, a first-of-its-kind coaster combining flying, motorbike and suspended ride technology with multiple launches, five inversions and speeds up to 50 mph.
Last Updated on September 27, 2026 by Daily News Staff
VALENCIA, Calif. — Six Flags Magic Mountain is preparing to add another major attraction to its coaster lineup with Thrill Glider, a first-of-its-kind roller coaster scheduled to open in 2027.
The Southern California theme park announced Sept. 10 that the new attraction will combine elements of flying, motorbike and suspended roller coasters to create what the park is calling an entirely new category: the “Thrillglider.”
Developed by coaster manufacturer Vekoma, Thrill Glider will place riders aboard specially designed “hovercycles.” Instead of sitting upright, riders will be positioned face-forward and prone beneath the track, creating the sensation of flying through the terrain.
The approximately 80-second ride will feature multiple launches reaching speeds of 50 mph, along with 12 airtime moments, five inversions and 20 track elements spread across nearly 3.5 acres. Onboard audio and lighting effects will add to the experience.
A Record-Setting New Coaster
According to Six Flags, Thrill Glider will stretch 3,380 feet — more than half a mile — and reach a maximum height of 107 feet. The company says the attraction will establish several records within the newly created Thrillglider category, including world’s longest, fastest and tallest Thrillglider.
The ride will also feature an elaborate science-fiction storyline centered on the fictional QuantumPulse Propulsion Systems and its discovery of an energy source called PSR B417. Guests will encounter futuristic displays, holographic presentations and other themed elements before boarding their hovercycles.
“Thrill Glider is more than a new attraction. It is the latest milestone in Six Flags Magic Mountain’s renaissance and a reflection of the park’s enduring role as an industry innovator,” park president Brian Oerding said in the announcement.
Where Will Thrill Glider Be Located?
Thrill Glider will occupy the former Golden Bear Theatre site, positioned between Full Throttle and LEX LUTHOR: Drop of Doom and next to the recently reimagined Looney Tunes Land.
Construction is already underway, with Six Flags planning to open the attraction sometime in 2027. A specific opening date has not yet been announced. The minimum rider height will be 48 inches.
The addition continues Magic Mountain’s long-running emphasis on ambitious roller coasters and introduces a substantially different ride experience: part flying coaster, part launched coaster and part futuristic motorcycle adventure.
Source/ Related Links
Six Flags Magic Mountain — Official Site
Source: Six Flags Magic Mountain press release, Sept. 10, 2026.
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Entertainment
Mattel Adventure Park and VAI Resort: What’s the Latest in Glendale?
Mattel Adventure Park and VAI Resort still have no announced opening date. VAI says construction continues and expects to share more about the park in late 2026.
GLENDALE, Ariz. — The wait continues for Mattel Adventure Park and VAI Resort near State Farm Stadium. Both remain under development, and neither has announced an opening date.
There has, however, been a change in how the park is being described. In August, Axios Phoenix reported that Epic Resort Destinations, the park’s original developer, appears to be out of the Glendale project. Asked about Epic’s involvement, a VAI spokesperson told Axios that VAI is the park’s owner and operator, but did not directly answer whether Epic still has any role. Another VAI spokesperson said the park and resort are now considered part of the same project and that construction continues on both.
VAI also told Axios it is redefining the park’s guest experience and creative vision and expects to share more in the fourth quarter of 2026. That is a promise of a project update, not an opening announcement.
The VAI Resort FAQ currently says it will announce an opening date approximately nine months in advance. Mattel Adventure Park’s Glendale page continues to promote planned attractions, including the Barbie Beach House and two Hot Wheels roller coasters, without listing an opening date.
For families hoping to visit, the practical answer is that there is still no date to put on the calendar. The next meaningful development to watch is VAI’s promised fourth-quarter update: it may clarify the park’s plans, but visitors will need an official opening announcement before they can plan a trip.
Source links: VAI Resort FAQ · Mattel Adventure Park Glendale page · Axios Phoenix’s August report
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Entertainment
Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show Starring Bad Bunny Wins 7 Emmys, Sets New Record
Executive produced by Roc Nation and JAY-Z, the show becomes the most-awarded halftime production in Emmy history.
The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show starring Bad Bunny took home seven Emmy Awards at the 78th Emmy Awards, making it the most-awarded Super Bowl halftime show in Emmy history, according to Roc Nation. The live spectacle—executive produced by Roc Nation and JAY-Z—won across major production categories, underscoring how the halftime stage has evolved into a full-scale, awards-caliber live television event.
The record-setting wins included Outstanding Variety Special (Live), Outstanding Music Direction, Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special, Outstanding Choreography for Variety or Reality Programming, Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Variety Series or Special, Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction for a Special, and Outstanding Technical Direction and Camerawork for a Special. Roc Nation also noted the show set a global viewership record, pulling 4.157 billion views in 24 hours across global broadcast, YouTube, and social platforms.
Beyond the trophies and viewership numbers, the halftime show leaned into big-name star power with special guest performers Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, plus additional appearances from Karol G, Cardi B, Jessica Alba, Pedro Pascal, Young Miko, and others. The sweep signals not just a win for the artists on stage, but for the behind-the-scenes creative teams turning the halftime show into one of the most technically ambitious live productions on television.
What to watch for: With Emmy recognition now firmly in the conversation, expect future halftime shows to push even harder on cinematic staging, choreography, and broadcast innovation—because the bar (and the awards) just got higher.
Source: Roc Nation (PRNewswire), Sept. 6, 2026
Link to original press release: https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-apple-music-super-bowl-lx-halftime-starring-bad-bunny–executive-produced-by-roc-nation–jay-z-wins-seven-emmys-302870842.html
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