Fox’s Full-Screen Ads During World Cup Hydration Breaks Cause Dismay in U.S. Fifa introduced three-minute hydration breaks during each half of every World Cup match to address concerns about player safety in the sweltering heat of North America. The breaks, which occur once per half regardless of temperature, are designed to allow athletes to rehydrate and recover. However, the implementation of these breaks by Fox, the English-language broadcaster for the World Cup in the U.S., has sparked widespread criticism from fans. During the tournament opener, Fox cut to full-screen advertisements during a hydration break in the second half of Mexico’s 2-1 victory over South Africa. The break was called just after Mexico scored its final goal, and when the broadcast returned to the match, play had already resumed for about 10 seconds, leaving viewers without a clear view of South Africa’s attempts to respond. The decision to prioritize advertising during these breaks has drawn sharp backlash from U.S. fans, who argue that it disrupts the flow of the game and prioritizes commercial interests over the viewing experience. On social media platforms like X and Reddit, viewers expressed frustration, with some calling the practice “absolute nonsense” and demanding an end to the interruptions. One user wrote, “We are trying to watch the biggest tournament on earth. Absolute nonsense. End this immediately!” Others acknowledged the reality of commercial breaks in U.S. sports but emphasized that missing live action is unacceptable. Fifa has instructed broadcasters to return to the match 30 seconds before play resumes, aiming to minimize the impact of the breaks on the game’s continuity. However, Fox’s choice to cut to full-screen ads during these intervals has been seen as a deviation from this guideline.#fox #fifa #x #world_cup #telemundo
Rebecca Lowe Predicts England's World Cup Victory, Hopes for USMNT Success, and Japan as Dark Horses Rebecca Lowe, a FOX host covering the World Cup, has expressed confidence that England will finally end their 60-year drought of World Cup titles. Despite past failures, she believes the Three Lions are primed for success, citing their current squad depth, tactical expertise under Thomas Tuchel, and the standout form of Harry Kane. Lowe emphasized the "law of averages" as a key factor, arguing that England’s repeated near-misses have made a victory inevitable. She acknowledged the team’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly the center-back pairing, but remained optimistic about their ability to overcome challenges, especially in high-stakes matches against France and other top-tier opponents. Lowe’s analysis extended to the U.S. men’s national team, whom she praised for their potential to make a significant impact. She highlighted the importance of securing a win in their opening match against Paraguay as a catalyst for momentum, noting that the country’s collective support for soccer—evident during the Winter Olympics—could propel the team further than their talent alone might suggest. While acknowledging the USMNT’s inconsistent results, she expressed belief in their ability to capitalize on early success, citing the nation’s growing football fandom as a key asset. Japan emerged as Lowe’s unexpected dark horse for the tournament. She praised their squad for its blend of technical skill and determination, citing a player’s recent interview where he declared, “We’re not going to settle for the quarterfinals. We’re going to win it.” Lowe argued that Japan’s attitude and underdog status make them a compelling contender, with many observers overlooking their potential.#england #fox #harry_kane #thomas_tuchel #rebecca_lowe
Fox Uses World Cup Hydration Breaks for Commercials, Sparks Fan Outcry The 2026 FIFA World Cup opener between Mexico and South Africa on Thursday became a focal point for controversy after U.S. broadcaster Fox cut to full-screen commercials during mandated hydration breaks, leaving fans without live action for critical moments. The breaks, introduced by FIFA as part of a “player welfare” initiative, were designed to pause play midway through each half. However, Fox’s handling of the ads drew criticism for disrupting the flow of the match and missing key moments. During the second half, Fox’s commentator Ian Darke announced the hydration break shortly after Raul Jimenez scored Mexico’s goal in the 67th minute, an emotional moment that sparked celebrations in Mexico City and among Mexican American communities. The break, which was supposed to last three minutes, began immediately after the goal, leaving players waiting around 40 seconds for the referee’s signal to resume play. Despite the restart, Fox continued airing commercials, including an Adidas ad featuring Lamine Yamal, before briefly returning to the match. FIFA had previously outlined rules for broadcasters during the breaks, stating that ads should not start within 20 seconds of the referee’s whistle and should resume the match feed at least 30 seconds before play restarted. While Fox adhered to the time limits for ad duration—showing around two minutes of commercials during both breaks—it violated the latter rule by delaying the return to the match feed. The broadcaster also faced backlash for failing to cut to ads promptly after the goal, forcing it to squeeze in multiple commercials, including a Verizon spot with David Beckham and a Bank of America ad. In contrast, Telemundo, which holds Spanish-language broadcast rights in the U.S.#fox #lamine_yamal #fifa #raul_jimenez #ian_darke
World Cup Schedule and Viewing Guide The World Cup will begin on Thursday, with 104 matches scheduled across 39 days. The group stage, the most intense phase of the tournament, will feature 72 matches from June 11 to June 27. These matches will be held in 16 cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In the U.S., Boston will host games alongside 10 other cities, including Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, Seattle, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Canada’s Toronto and Vancouver will host matches, while Mexico’s Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey will serve as venues. The expanded 48-team format will see 32 teams advance from the group stage, with the bottom team in each group eliminated. Matches will conclude after 90 minutes plus stoppage time, with teams earning 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw, and 0 points for a loss. The knockout rounds, starting with the Round of 32, will follow a single-elimination structure. If matches go into overtime, two 15-minute periods will be played. In the event of a tie after 120 minutes, a penalty shootout will decide the winner. All 104 matches will be broadcast on Fox and FS1, with streaming options available through Fox One and the Fox Sports app. Cable-free viewers can access the channels via Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream. Spanish-language broadcasts will be available on Telemundo and its affiliates in the U.S., while Peacock will stream all matches in Spanish. A detailed daily schedule is accessible online for those planning their viewing. Community engagement will be highlighted through watch parties, with the largest gathering at the FIFA fan festival in Boston City Hall. The festival will livestream matches for 16 days, offering a centralized location for fans.#fox #fifa #boston #world_cup #telemundo
Broadcast Networks Gear Up for 2026-2027 TV Season with New Series Orders The major broadcast networks—ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC—are finalizing their programming schedules for the upcoming 2026-2027 television season, with a slate of new scripted series set to debut across the fall and midseason. Each network has announced its latest additions, reflecting a mix of genres, including dramas, comedies, and crime procedurals, while also showcasing a focus on character-driven storytelling and serialized narratives. ABC has ordered a spinoff of its popular series The Rookie, titled The Rookie: North, which will premiere midseason. The show follows Alex Holland, played by Jay Ellis, a man who reevaluates his life after a violent home invasion forces him to confront his past of failed commitments. Holland joins the Pierce County Police Department as a rookie, navigating the challenges of urban and rural policing while proving himself to his skeptical training officer and fellow recruits. The series will also feature supporting actors Chris Sullivan, Karen Fukuhara, Froy Gutierrez, Janet Montgomery, Mya Lowe, and Malik Watson. CBS has greenlit three new series, including the family comedy Eternally Yours, which stars Ed Weeks and Allegra Edwards as a vampire couple whose 500-year-old marriage is tested when their daughter’s human boyfriend disrupts their eternal rut. The show will premiere this fall and is produced by CBS Studios, with executive producers Joe Port, Joe Wiseman, Eric Tannenbaum, Kim Tannenbaum, and Jason Wang. Another CBS series, Cupertino, is a legal drama set in Silicon Valley, following a lawyer (Mike Colter) who teams up with Rachel Keller to fight back against tech giants who have exploited his stock options. The series, produced under the King Size Productions banner, will also premiere this fall.#fox #nbc #abc #cbs #the_rookie
Comcast Xfinity and Scripps Dispute Over NHL Coverage Sparks Industry Concerns Comcast Xfinity and The E.W. Scripps Company entered a dispute over regional NHL broadcasting rights, leading to the blackout of several Scripps-owned stations on Tuesday night. The conflict arose after the two parties failed to reach a new agreement, with Scripps demanding that Comcast carry stations airing local NHL games as a condition for carrying other Scripps stations nationwide. The blackout affected stations that broadcast games for the Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and San Jose Sharks, with Xfinity users in affected areas losing access to live broadcasts during key matchups. At the time of the blackout, Xfinity only carried stations airing Florida Panthers games, including WHDT-TV in West Palm Beach and WSFL-TV in Miami Dade and Broward counties. Both stations went dark during a Panthers game, highlighting the immediate impact of the dispute. Scripps also requested that Comcast carry a station broadcasting Nashville Predators games starting next season, though the Las Vegas market, home to the Vegas Golden Knights, was excluded from Xfinity’s service area. Scripps emphasized its commitment to negotiating in good faith, stating it aimed to reach a fair agreement for both parties and viewers. Meanwhile, an Xfinity employee noted the company was working to restore programming under “fair pricing, terms, and conditions for customers.” The dispute has raised concerns about the potential consequences for local TV news, with Fox warning that the exclusion of live sports from distribution could lead to the decline of local news, akin to the obsolescence of print newspapers. Fox also called for reevaluating the antitrust exemption granted to professional sports leagues under the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961.#fox #espn #nfl_network #comcast_xfinity #the_ew_scripps_company
Memory of a Killer Episode 8 Release Date and Details The eighth episode of the psychological thriller "Memory of a Killer," titled "Tailored by Fabroni," is set to premiere on Monday, March 23, at 9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT on Fox. The episode will be available for streaming on Hulu the following day. The series, which premiered on January 25, follows the unraveling of Angelo Doyle, a suburban father secretly living as a hitman, as his past begins to collide with his present. Angelo, portrayed by Patrick Dempsey, is grappling with the early onset of dementia, which is clouding his memories and forcing him to confront the violent life he once led. His best friend and criminal partner, Dutch, played by Michael Imperioli, adds to his turmoil as the consequences of their past actions threaten to resurface. Meanwhile, law enforcement is closing in on Angelo, with investigators working to piece together the details of one of his murders. The episode’s synopsis highlights major revelations that could disrupt Angelo’s family dynamics, while his son Joe, played by Richard Harmon, is presented with a significant opportunity. The series continues to explore the tension between Angelo’s dual identity and the moral consequences of his choices. For viewers, the show airs weekly on Fox at 9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT, with each new episode becoming available on Hulu the day after its broadcast. The remaining episodes of the season are scheduled as follows: Episode 9, "Shoot the Piano Player," on March 30, and the season finale, Episode 10, on April 6. The cast of "Memory of a Killer" includes Patrick Dempsey as Angelo Doyle, Michael Imperioli as Dutch, Gina Torres as Linda Grant, Richard Harmon as Joe, Odeya Rush as Maria, Daniel David Stewart as Jeff, and Peter Gadiot as Detective Dave Woods.#fox #hulu #memory_of_a_killer #patrick_dempsey #michael_imperioli
Patrick Dempsey Returned to TV in 'Memory of a Killer' After 'Grey's' Patrick Dempsey has returned to network television in a new role, playing a cold-blooded contract killer in the Fox series 'Memory of a Killer.' More than a decade after leaving 'Grey's Anatomy,' where he portrayed the iconic neurosurgeon Dr. Derek "McDreamy" Shepherd, Dempsey has embraced a dramatically different character. His new role as Angelo, a hit man grappling with early onset Alzheimer's, marks a significant shift in his career. The character's struggle with the disease, which Derek spent years researching on 'Grey's,' adds a layer of irony and depth to the series. Dempsey expressed his fascination with the character, noting that the assassin side and the Alzheimer's aspect were particularly appealing. He was surprised and intrigued by the opportunity, which came to him quickly, and had to make a decision within 24 hours. The series, inspired by the book and 2003 Belgian film 'De zaak Alzheimer,' blends elements of a family drama, a procedural thriller, and action, creating a unique and challenging format. The show explores the emotional toll of an Alzheimer's diagnosis not only on the patient but also on their caregivers. Dempsey, who has a long history of work within the cancer community, sees the series as a chance to raise awareness about Alzheimer's and its impact on individuals and families. He emphasizes the balance between making the show exciting and informative, while also highlighting the personal stories of those affected by the disease. As the series progresses, Angelo's internal conflict intensifies. He begins to question the morality of his actions, especially as his pregnant daughter becomes a target. The show's tagline, "Angelo is losing his mind but slowly gaining a conscience," reflects this transformation.#fox #new_york #alzheimer_s #memory_of_a_killer #patrick_dempsey
Memory of a Killer: Patrick Dempsey Discusses Angelo's Struggles and Dual Lives Patrick Dempsey, who portrays Angelo in the Fox series Memory of a Killer, has shared insights about the character’s mounting pressures as the show’s first season unfolds. In an interview with TV Insider, Dempsey highlighted Angelo’s internal conflict between his secret life as a hitman and his role as a suburban father, while also grappling with early-onset Alzheimer’s. The actor described the character’s journey as increasingly complex, with Angelo facing threats to his family and personal safety. In the March 16 episode, titled “Dr. Parks,” Angelo confronts Dutch (Michael Imperioli), a fellow hitman, about a past job involving the scientist Dr. Robert Parks. The episode explores Angelo’s growing doubts about the morality of his actions, as he questions whether his previous hit might be linked to the mysterious figure known as The Ferryman. During the scene, Angelo recalls Dr. Parks’ final words, which suggested that the person who ordered the hit lied. This revelation forces Angelo to reevaluate his past decisions, even as Dutch challenges him, reminding him that his job was completed and that he should not question the client’s motives. Dempsey emphasized the emotional weight of Angelo’s dual existence, noting that the character’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis adds another layer of tension. “He’s seen what it has done to his brother and the potential destruction it could cause,” Dempsey explained. “It’s putting his life in jeopardy, and he’s already in jeopardy. There’s more and more pressure on Angelo as the season progresses—not only with finding the right medication but also keeping his secrets.#fox #patrick_dempsey #angelo #dr_parks #the_ferryman
Memory of a Killer Episode 7 Release Details and Plot Updates The seventh episode of Memory of a Killer, titled "Dr. Parks," is set to premiere on Monday, March 16, at 9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT on Fox, with streaming available on Hulu the following day. The episode will follow the ongoing struggles of Angelo Doyle, portrayed by Patrick Dempsey, as his dual life as a hitman and a man battling early-onset dementia becomes increasingly difficult to manage. Doyle’s efforts to uncover the identity of The Ferryman, a mysterious figure linked to his past, take a new turn as he discovers a previous job may hold the key to solving the mystery. The episode’s plot thickens with a high-stakes mission involving the public assassination of a Russian mob accountant set to testify on live television. This operation raises the stakes for Doyle, who must navigate his declining memory while balancing his dangerous profession. Meanwhile, Detective Dave Woods, played by Peter Gadiot, makes a significant breakthrough in his investigation into one of Angelo’s murders, potentially exposing his true identity. The series, which premiered on January 25, has a total of 10 episodes. With six already aired, the remaining schedule includes Episode 8, "Tailored by Fabroni," on March 23; Episode 9, "Shoot the Piano Player," on March 30; and the final episode, Episode 10, on April 6. The show’s blend of crime, mystery, and psychological tension continues to unfold as characters grapple with their pasts and the consequences of their actions. The cast includes Peter Gadiot as Detective Dave Woods, Daniel David Stewart as Jeff, Odeya Rush as Maria, Richard Harmon as Joe, Gina Torres as Linda Grant, Michael Imperioli as Dutch, and Patrick Dempsey as Angelo Doyle.#fox #hulu #memory_of_a_killer #angelo_doyle #peter_gadiot
How to Watch INDYCAR Desert Double Race at Phoenix: TV Channel, Streaming, Time The 2026 INDYCAR season will feature a high-octane doubleheader at Phoenix Raceway as part of the Desert Double event, with the second race of the year set for Saturday. The Good Ranchers 250 will take place at 3 p.m. ET on FOX, with live coverage also available on FOX One, the FOX Sports app, and the FOX Sports website. This event marks the first of two motorsports races on FOX this weekend, with the NASCAR Cup Series set to race on Sunday. The 2026 INDYCAR season officially kicks off with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, a street race in Florida, before returning to Phoenix for the second race. Alex Palou, who secured his fourth INDYCAR championship in 2025, continued his dominance by winning the season-opening race at St. Petersburg. The victory solidifies his position as a top contender for the 2026 title. INDYCAR’s last appearance at Phoenix Raceway was in 2018, when Josef Newgarden claimed victory. Since 2005, the series has only raced at the one-mile desert track three times—2016, 2017, and 2018. The return to Phoenix is expected to draw significant attention, given the track’s unique challenges and the competitive nature of the series. The next INDYCAR race of the 2026 season will be the Java House Grand Prix of Arlington, a street race in Texas set for Sunday, March 15, at 12:30 p.m. ET. This event will also air on FOX and FOX One. Throughout the season, every INDYCAR race will be broadcast live on FOX, including the 110th running of the Indianapolis 500 on May 24. For viewers without cable, live-streaming options include the FOX Sports website, FOX One, and the FOX Sports app. Additional services like YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and fuboTV carry FOX content.#fox #phoenix_raceway #indycar #alex_palou #java_house_grand_prix_of_arlington
Al Ettifaq vs Al Shabab Preview & Prediction The 2025/26 Saudi Pro League is set to feature a match between Al Ettifaq and Al Shabab, with both teams expected to approach the encounter with a relatively relaxed mindset. Despite Al Ettifaq’s consistent presence in the top half of the table, they have struggled in recent form, suffering three consecutive losses in their last four league games. Al Shabab, meanwhile, have shown signs of improvement since the departure of their former manager, Imanol Alguacil, but their most recent match ended in a 5-3 defeat to title contenders Al Hilal. The match, scheduled for March 6, 2026, is likely to be a low-pressure encounter as both teams appear to be focusing on maintaining their positions rather than competing for immediate success. Analysts suggest that the game may lack the intensity of earlier-season fixtures, with both sides potentially prioritizing tactical balance over aggressive play. This could lead to a more open contest, where both teams are expected to score, making a "both teams to score" outcome a strong prediction. For viewers, the match will be broadcast in the UK via DAZN, which holds the rights to three Saudi Pro League games per week. In the United States, some matches will be televised on Fox, though fans are advised to check the schedule for specific details. The ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region have added an element of uncertainty, with the match subject to potential changes due to the conflict. However, as of now, the fixture remains intact. The match is part of a broader slate of international and domestic fixtures, including games between teams like Jamshedpur and Inter Kashi, Newcastle Jets and Western Sydney Wanderers, and Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory.#fox #dazn #al_ettifaq #al_shabab #cristiano_ronaldo
Al Khaleej vs Al Hazem Preview & Prediction The 2025/26 Saudi Pro League is set to feature a crucial match between Al Khaleej and Al Hazem, with the outcome potentially shaping the standings for both teams. The game, scheduled for March 5, 2026, is subject to changes due to ongoing tensions in the Gulf region. Fans in the UK and US can tune in via DAZN and Fox, respectively, to catch the action. Al Khaleej, currently struggling in the league, has been in a prolonged slump. The team has recorded three consecutive losses, extending their winless streak to nine matches since the start of the season. This poor form has pushed them toward the lower half of the table, raising concerns about their ability to avoid relegation. In contrast, Al Hazem has shown signs of improvement, moving into the middle of the table after a recent four-match winning streak. Despite their recent success, the team remains in a precarious position, as they have only lost one game in their last four outings. The match is expected to be a closely contested affair, with Al Hazem favored to secure a positive result. Analysts suggest that the visitors’ recent form, combined with their resilience in away games, makes them the stronger option. A draw is also considered a viable outcome, given the competitive nature of the league and the teams’ current standings. The prediction highlights Al Hazem’s potential to either win or draw, making them the preferred choice for bettors. However, the match’s outcome could be influenced by factors such as player injuries, tactical adjustments, and the impact of the ongoing regional instability. Other matches on the same day include high-profile fixtures such as Bayern Munich vs Borussia Monchengladbach, Paris Saint-Germain vs Monaco, and Celta Vigo vs Real Madrid.#al_khaleej #al_hazem #saudi_pro_league #dazn #fox
The Masked Singer US Unveils Ozzfest-Themed Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne The Masked Singer US is set to deliver an electrifying tribute to Ozzy Osbourne with a special episode titled “Ozzfest Night,” airing Wednesday, March 4, 2026. The episode will feature contestants performing some of Ozzy’s most iconic songs, celebrating his legendary career and transformative impact on heavy metal. The decision to honor the late rock icon comes as part of Season 14 of the show, which premiered on January 7, 2026, on FOX. The episode promises a spectacle of glittery costumes, giant singing mascots, and high-energy performances, blending the show’s signature style with Ozzy’s legacy. Contestants will take on songs that once terrified parents, rattled church halls, and defined the sound of metal. The juxtaposition of these anthems with studio lighting and elaborate costumes—such as a rhinestone dragon—creates a surreal yet fitting tribute to a man who redefined rebellion through music. Ozzy’s daughter, Kelly Osbourne, will make a heartfelt appearance on the episode, adding a personal dimension to the tribute. Her participation underscores the familial connection to Ozzy’s legacy, which has been a focal point since his passing in July 2025. Tributes to his work with Black Sabbath and his solo career have flooded the music world, but seeing his daughter honor him on a global stage amplifies the emotional weight of the moment. The episode’s branding as “Ozzfest Night” resonates deeply, as Ozzfest was more than a festival—it was a cultural phenomenon that launched countless bands and became a rite of passage for metalheads. Reviving the name for mainstream television highlights Ozzy’s enduring influence, bridging the gap between underground metal and pop culture.#fox #ozzy_osbourne #the_masked_singer_us #kelly_osbourne #ozzfest
