Stranger Things Finale Box Office Experiment, Taylor Swift Chart Record and Betty Boop Enters Public Domain Highlight Busy Week in U.S. Entertainment

Stranger Things Finale Draws Fans to U.S. Theaters in Unusual Netflix Release

The finale of Netflix's hit series "Stranger Things" drew sizable crowds to theaters across the United States over the New Year's holiday in a hybrid streaming–cinema release. According to reporting cited by FOX 17's entertainment segment, the final episode premiered simultaneously on Netflix and in roughly 600 movie theaters nationwide on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.[2]

Theaters reportedly generated about $25 million over the weekend from the event-style screenings, signaling robust fan interest in seeing the conclusion on the big screen despite its availability at home.[2] Because of Netflix's contractual terms, the company could not charge standard ticket prices for the finale; instead, fans reserved seats by purchasing concession vouchers through participating theaters.[2]

This was not Netflix's first experiment with bringing streaming content into cinemas. FOX 17 noted that the company previously hosted a special sing-along theatrical event for an animated K‑pop themed feature, testing whether fandom-driven events can help theaters and streamers collaborate around major titles.[2] The strong turnout for the "Stranger Things" finale is likely to intensify industry discussion about future crossover releases for major series and finales.

Taylor Swift Sets New Chart Milestone with "The Tortured Poets Department" Era

On the broadcast of "Good Morning America," ABC News highlighted a new chart milestone for Taylor Swift, tied to her recent hit track from "The Tortured Poets Department" era.[4] The segment noted that the song has now achieved a record no previous track had managed, cementing Swift's dominant position on the U.S. charts.[4]

While the broadcast did not dwell on detailed chart numbers in the excerpt, the report framed the achievement as a historic first in terms of chart performance for a single song.[4] The milestone comes as Swift continues her high-profile run through U.S. stadiums and global dates, maintaining a heavy cultural footprint that spans music, streaming, and live events.

For U.S. audiences, the latest record adds to Swift's broader impact on entertainment and the economy, with earlier tour stops having driven measurable boosts in local tourism and hospitality. The new achievement is expected to fuel continued radio play, streaming, and media coverage around her ongoing projects.

Betty Boop and Classic Songs Enter Public Domain, Opening Creative Possibilities

In a development with major implications for film, animation, and music, the original version of Betty Boop entered the public domain at the start of the year, according to FOX 17's entertainment report.[2] Works created in 1930 saw their copyrights expire on January 1 under U.S. law, allowing artists, studios, and brands to use and adapt those early Betty Boop creations without licensing fees.[2]

FOX 17 also noted that several influential songs moved into the public domain at the same time, including "Georgia on My Mind" and "I Got Rhythm".[2] This shift allows American filmmakers, musicians, and advertisers to incorporate these works freely into new projects, potentially sparking fresh covers, remixes, and period pieces built around familiar classics.

Public domain transitions have become recurring headline events in the entertainment industry, as iconic characters and songs open up to reinterpretation. With Betty Boop now available for unlicensed use, U.S. audiences may see new animated series, merchandise, or reimagined versions of the character emerging from independent creators and major studios alike.

Broadway Spotlight: Anne Reid Makes Her Debut at Age 90

On an NBC New York feature show, veteran British actress Anne Reid discussed making her Broadway debut at age 90, underscoring a notable moment for theater audiences in New York.[1] Reid, long known for roles on British television and film, is now appearing on the Broadway stage for the first time, a late-career milestone that has drawn attention in U.S. arts coverage.[1]

The NBC segment framed her debut as a "dream come true" moment, with Reid reflecting on performing for Broadway audiences after decades in the industry.[1] Her appearance adds intergenerational depth to the current Broadway season and highlights the continued pull of New York theater for international performers.

Reality TV and Food Entertainment: Jeff Mauro Promotes "Worst Cooks in America: Reality Check"

Food Network personality Jeff Mauro appeared on NBC New York to discuss the latest season of "Worst Cooks in America: Reality Check", which continues to blend cooking challenges with reality TV drama.[1] The series, airing on Food Network and available via U.S. cable and streaming platforms, brings back returning contestants and new faces for a fresh round of kitchen competitions.[1]

Mauro's promotional appearance underscored the ongoing popularity of food-based reality entertainment in the United States, which remains a key component of cable and streaming lineups. By highlighting new twists and personalities, the network aims to keep established franchises in the public eye as viewing habits shift toward on-demand platforms.