Samuel L. Jackson Voices Hammerhead Shark in The Boys Season 5 The surprise casting of Samuel L. Jackson as a hammerhead shark in The Boys Season 5 has been hailed as a defining moment for the show’s creative team. Creator Eric Kripke described the decision as a “bucket list” achievement, emphasizing its significance in the series’ history. The character, named Xander, appears in Episode 7, which was released on May 13, 2026, as part of the season’s weekly rollout. The episode’s reveal of Jackson’s involvement kept fans guessing, as the show has long prioritized maintaining secrecy around major plot twists. Kripke’s comments from May 14, 2026, highlighted the symbolic weight of the casting. He noted that Xander’s role as an aquatic antagonist who confronts The Deep (played by Chace Crawford) represents a pivotal moment in the character’s arc. The scene blends the show’s signature dark humor with its superhero satire, and Jackson’s distinctive vocal presence adds a layer of gravitas to the absurdity. His participation also underscores the show’s willingness to integrate A-list talent for comedic effect, a trend that has become a hallmark of its storytelling. Behind the scenes, the production of Xander’s scenes involved unique technical challenges. Jackson recorded his lines opposite a tennis ball, a common practice in voice acting when live-action actors interact with animated or CGI characters. This method allowed for precise timing and physicality, ensuring the scene’s comedic timing and visual impact. The episode marks one of the few instances where The Boys has specifically enlisted high-profile voice actors to enhance humor, rather than relying on traditional dialogue-driven scenes. Jackson’s role as Xander also reflects the show’s broader evolution beyond its core ensemble cast.#samuel_l_jackson #the_boys #eric_kripke #xander #the_deep
"Pulp Fiction" Actor: Quentin Tarantino Has Been Given ‘Hall Pass’ To Use N-Word In Films Actor Rosanna Arquette, who played the girlfriend of drug dealer Lance in "Pulp Fiction," criticized Quentin Tarantino for using the racial slur in his films, calling it racist and inappropriate. Arquette argued that Tarantino has been granted a “hall pass” to use the N-word in movies like "Django Unchained," "The Hateful Eight," "Jackie Brown," and "Pulp Fiction." She told The Sunday Times (UK) that the term is not art but “just racist and creepy,” adding that she personally opposes its use. While she praised "Pulp Fiction" as “iconic” on multiple levels, she emphasized that Tarantino had no justification for employing the derogatory language. Arquette is not the only Hollywood figure to voice concerns about Tarantino’s use of the N-word. In 2012, director Spike Lee criticized Tarantino for including the slur in "Django Unchained," calling it “disrespectful to my ancestors.” The film, set in the 1850s, featured the N-word over 100 times, with both Black and white actors using it. Despite the controversy, the film received five Academy Award nominations, with Christoph Waltz winning best supporting actor and Tarantino taking home the best original screenplay award. Tarantino defended his use of the term during a 2013 Golden Globes interview, rejecting calls to “soften” or “white wash” the language. He stated, “They’re saying I should lie, they’re saying I should massage,” but added that he never alters his characters’ dialogue. Nearly a decade later, Tarantino reiterated his stance during a 2022 appearance on “Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace,” telling viewers offended by his films to “see something else.” He claimed, “If you have a problem with my movies, then they aren’t the movies to go see.#rosanna_arquette #quentin_tarantino #spike_lee #christoph_waltz #samuel_l_jackson
Jimmy Kimmel and Magic Johnson Clear the Air Over Vacation Invite Jimmy Kimmel and Magic Johnson addressed their strained relationship over a yacht vacation invitation during their recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! The topic emerged as Johnson, the NBA legend, returned to the show for a special segment. Kimmel had long sought an invitation to join Johnson on a lavish summer getaway, which finally materialized in September 2024. Johnson surprised Kimmel with an actual offer for the 2025 trip, which would also include Kimmel’s wife, Molly McNearney, as well as Samuel L. Jackson and his wife, LaTanya Richardson Jackson. Kimmel expressed disbelief, saying he was “almost near tears” upon receiving the invite. However, by November 2025, Kimmel had missed the trip. During a conversation with Samuel L. Jackson, who had also been invited, Kimmel admitted he couldn’t attend. He hinted that Johnson had shared the details at the last minute, prompting Jackson to quip that if Kimmel was truly invested in the trip, he would know it always began in early July. The situation left Kimmel feeling regretful, as he admitted the missed opportunity was “the worst thing” despite the excitement of the invitation. During their Monday night sit-down, Johnson acknowledged Kimmel’s absence by remarking on his recent media presence. Kimmel playfully responded by suggesting Johnson’s comment was a hint that their relationship would end when the show concluded. Johnson insisted they would remain friends, emphasizing that the invitation was a key factor in their bond. Kimmel, still reflecting on the missed trip, joked about blaming his children for the inconvenience. Johnson offered Kimmel an “open invitation” to join future trips, citing Samuel L. Jackson’s encouragement to include Kimmel and his wife.#samuel_l_jackson #jimmy_kimmel #magic_johnson #molly_mcnearney #latanya_richardson_jackson
