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CBS cancels ‘The Equalizer’ after 5 seasons: Queen Latifah responds
Need a show to binge? These are the must watch shows this spring.
USA TODAY’s TV critic Kelly Lawler breaks down the best TV shows you don’t to want to miss this spring.
Queen Latifah’s role as mysterious guardian Robyn McCall on the CBS drama “The Equalizer” will end after five seasons.
CBS revealed Friday that the Latifah-led series, a staple of the network’s Sunday night lineup, will not be renewed for Season 6. The May 4 Season 5 finale (10 EDT/PDT), titled “Decisions,” will now be the series finale for the procedural.
In the reimagining of the 1980s CBS series, Latifah stars as former CIA operative McCall, who uses her particular set of skills to help people in need. The reboot has passionate fans who pushed “The Equalizer” to the top of USA TODAY’s exclusive “Save Our Shows” readers’ poll.
In the poll results announced Friday, 47% of “SOS” voters said they wanted the show to return for a sixth season, the highest percentage of any show.
Only 23% of poll respondents wanted CBS’s “Poppa’s House,” a multigenerational family sitcom starring Damon Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr., to return. The comedy was canceled after one season in April.
CBS has made significant changes to the programming slate, canceling several shows, including “S.W.A.T.” in March after Season 8. The network plans new series such as the “Blue Bloods” spinoff “Boston Blue,” the “FBI” spinoff “FBI: CIA,” and the comedy “DMV” for next season. CBS will reveal its fall schedule on May 7.
Queen Latifah thanks ‘ride-or-die’ fans for five seasons
The “U.N.I.T.Y.” singer responded to the news with an Instagram photo featuring McCall in action. With the Cleo Sol song “Know That You Are Loved” playing, Latifah thanked the “so loyal, so loud, and so ride-or-die” fans.
“Stepping into a kick-ass role like Robyn was everything I hoped it would be,” Latifah wrote to her 8.2 million Instagram followers. “‘The Equalizer’ blew past every dream we had for it, and having the opportunity to do this for five seasons honestly feels surreal.”
The Emmy-winning actress told fans not to worry about her. “I’ll be back kicking ass in something new real soon,” Latifah wrote. “Can’t wait to share it with you.”
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The Country Bookseller in NH has plenty of charm and great books
Independent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and new authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way, and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.
Each week we profile an independent bookstore, sharing what makes each one special and getting their expert and unique book recommendations.
This week we have Jeanne Snowdon, owner of The Country Bookseller in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire.
What’s your store’s story?
The store started in 1994 from one woman’s dream and dedication. A teenager she later hired stayed for 22 years and helped elevate the store to what it is today. I will soon be the third owner, making my own dream come true while feeling humbled and aspiring to build on the legacy of the two remarkable women before me.
What makes your independent bookstore unique?
Our shop has proudly served our community for more than 30 years, earning the affection of both local residents and the many tourists who visit each year. One of the most prosperous years in the store’s long history was the year of lockdown during the pandemic, proving the dedication of the town residents in helping it remain a constant even through difficult times. We are a small-town store with a big-town selection.
What’s your favorite section in your store?
The Children’s Section is my favorite. It is colorful, has a great selection of books, and lots of natural light streaming in from two large window seats that look out over the waters of Lake Winnipesaukee.
What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?
I often recommend “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak. It is narrated by the figure of death, which sounds gruesome but isn’t. The story is about a young girl who discovers the power of words. Her story is beautiful and sad, heartwarming and devastating. It is a story that will stay with you long after you close the book.
What book do you think deserves more attention and why?
“Raising Hare: A Memoir” by Chloe Dalton. It is the story of one woman’s life-changing decision to rescue an orphaned baby hare she encounters in the English countryside while working from home during the pandemic lockdown. She takes us through the challenges she faced while discovering her newfound connection to nature and a passion for advocating for wildlife so they can coexist peacefully with humans. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I accompanied her throughout her journey.
What books/series are you most excited about coming out in the next few months and why?
Everyone is excited about Fredrik Backman’s newest title, “My Friends,” which comes out Tuesday. In nonfiction, I am excited about “Is A River Alive?” by nature writer Robert Macfarlane.
Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?
Supporting local businesses is more important than ever. You contribute to the strength of your community’s economy by choosing to shop locally. Fostering connections with local business owners enhances community spirit and belonging. When the original owner of the bookstore needed to move locations down the road, the town residents showed up in droves, creating a human conveyor belt moving the books hand-to-hand down to the new location.
What are some of your store’s events, programs, or partnerships coming up that you would like to share?
On Memorial Day weekend, we’ll have a multi-author book signing. Several other New England authors will be joining us this summer for signing events promoting their new titles. In July, we will be hosting a nationwide “Find Waldo Local” event co-sponsored by Candlewick Press and the American Booksellers Association.
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Schedule, how to watch finale
The most anticipated TV shows of 2025
USA TODAY TV critic Kelly Lawler shares her top 5 TV shows she is most excited for this year
This is the end.
The fourth and final season of HBO’s “The Righteous Gemstones” will come to an end on May 4, as the series finale is set to close the Gemstone saga.
The show starring Danny McBride (Jesse Gemstone), Walton Goggins (Baby Billy Freeman) and John Goodman (Eli Gemstone) “tells the story of a world-famous televangelist family with a long tradition of deviance, greed, and charitable work,” according to Warner Bros.
Ahead of the final episode, Danny McBride told the Associated Press that he hoped “religious people” would watch the series.
“A lot of people who come up to me, honestly, their first thing will be like, ‘I go to church and I think it’s funny,’” he told the Associated Press. “My hope honestly, with creating the show was that people who were religious would watch it. That, ultimately, they would understand that this isn’t making fun of them, but it’s probably making fun of people that they identify and are annoyed by.”
Here’s what you need to know about Season 4 of “The Righteous Gemstones.”
How to watch ‘The Righteous Gemstones’ Season 4
The last episode of “The Righteous Gemstones” will premiere on HBO at 10 p.m. ET / PT on Sunday, and be available for streaming on Max at the same time they air on HBO.
Season 4 of “The Righteous Gemstones” began airing on March 9.
How can I subscribe to Max?
Max subscription plans begin at $9.99 a month with ads, while ad-free subscriptions cost $16.99 a month.
The highest tier, which is $20.99 a month, includes the ability to stream on four devices and offers 4K Ultra HD video quality and 100 downloads. HBO also offers bundles with Hulu and Disney+.
Watch The Righteous Gemstones Season 4 with Sling + Max
‘The Righteous Gemstones’ Season 4 episode schedule
Here’s the full list of release dates for the Season 4 episodes of “The Righteous Gemstones”:
- Episode 1, “Prelude”: March 9
- Episode 2, “You Hurled Me Into the Very Heart of the Seas”: March 16
- Episode 3, “To Grieve Like the Rest of Men Who Have No Hope”: March 23
- Episode 4, “He Goeth Before You Into Galilee”: March 30
- Episode 5, “You Shall Remember”: April 6
- Episode 6, “Interlude IV”: April 13
- Episode 7, “For Jealousy Is the Rage of a Man”: April 20
- Episode 8, “On Your Belly You Shall Go”: April 27
- Episode 9, “That Man of God May Be Complete”: May 4
Watch the ‘The Righteous Gemstones’ Season 4 trailer
‘The Righteous Gemstones’ cast
- John Goodman as Dr. Eli Gemstone
- Danny McBride as Jesse Gemstone
- Adam Devine as Kelvin Gemstone
- Edi Patterson as Judy Gemstone
- Cassidy Freeman as Amber Gemstone
- Tim Baltz as BJ
- Tony Cavalero as Keefe Chambers
- Gregory Alan Williams as Martin Imari
- Skyler Gisondo as Gideon Gemstone
- Walton Goggins as Baby Billy Freeman/Baby Billy
- Kelton DuMont as Pontius Gemstone
- Gavin Munn as Abraham Gemstone
- Jennifer Nettles as Aimee-Leigh Gemstone
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected] and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.
We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.
Our team of savvy editors independently handpicks all recommendations. If you make a purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.
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David Beckham: 50 great photos to mark the soccer star's 50th birthdayCelebrities
David Beckham: 50 great photos to mark the soccer star’s 50th birthdayCelebrities
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Watch Blue Ivy’s iconic moments before stellar ‘Cowboy Carter’ dancing
Blue Ivy Carter has the Beyhive buzzing as she’s taken on a lead role on her mom’s “Cowboy Carter” tour. She’s wowing some fans with her dance moves, but for those who have been watching closely, it’s no surprise the 13-year-old has an iconic presence.
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter first launched her Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin’ Circuit Tour on April 28 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Fans from all over the world traveled to witness Beyoncé’s Los Angeles shows, which were filled with family, politics, soaring vocals, incredible fashion and masterful dancing.
Many fans watching online and in the stadium were left floored by Blue Ivy’s performance throughout the night as she danced center stage. However, the Beyhive knows superstardom has been brewing in her bones. Here’s a list of some iconic Blue Ivy moments over the years.
- Blue has been playfully deemed Beyoncé’s “manager” by fans all over the internet due to her poised presence and sharp instincts. This was exemplified during the 2025 Grammys, where Beyoncé took home the award for best country album and album of the year, and Blue motioned to her mom to go onstage for her award.
- And when it comes to manager Blue, she tends to make things happen. In Beyoncé’s movie “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,” Blue convinced the global superstar to keep the song “Diva” on the final set list, and the song made it into the “Cowboy Carter” tour, as well.
- Blue Ivy has also been present in major cultural moments. During Jay-Z’s acceptance speech at the 2024 Grammys, he took the stage with Blue as he called out the Recording Academy’s snubs against his wife, Beyoncé.
- At the age of 10, Blue Ivy performed at the Academy Awards amongst dancers during her mother’s performance of “Be Alive.” She received a lot of praise for her moves.
- Blue Ivy was featured on Beyoncé’s song “Brown Skin Girl” and in the accompanying music video. This feature earned young Blue a list of accolades, including becoming the second youngest person ever to win a Grammy, the youngest person to receive a BET Award and the youngest winner of an MTV Video Music Award.
- Two days after she was born, Time magazine deemed Blue Ivy the “most famous baby in the world.”
- Beyoncé first introduced Blue Ivy to the world onstage at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards. Beyoncé performed her hit “Love on Top” before rubbing her belly.
The nine-city “Cowboy Carter” tour will span the U.S. and Europe with the grand finale taking place in Las Vegas on July 26. Beyoncé is set to make history with her scheduled tour dates, including by playing the most dates at SoFi Stadium of any artist.
Follow Caché McClay, the USA TODAY Network’s Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, on Instagram, TikTok and X as @cachemcclay.
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‘Laugh In’ star was 88
Ruth Buzzi, a variety-show veteran most famous for her role on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In”, has died. She was 88.
Buzzi died May 1 at her Texas home, her agent Michael Eisenstadt confirmed to USA TODAY in a May 2 statement.
“Her husband of almost 48 years, Kent Perkins expressed to me that she was making people laugh just a few days ago,” Eisenstadt wrote. “I was Ruth’s agent for over 30 years. She was warm, loving and funny. A great person who was considered a family member.”
A female comic from an era when they were scarce, Buzzi “passed away peacefully,” according to Eisenstadt, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative condition from which she suffered for 10 years.
Buzzi, whose comedy was as physical as it was cerebral, reeled in laughs from audience members as Gladys Ormphby on “Laugh-In” − a curmudgeonly and drably dressed woman whose weapon of choice was a purse she would comically swing at those passing her threshold of annoyance.
Part of an all-star ensemble on a show that claimed a definitive role in the cultural zeitgeist, Buzzi appeared on “Laugh-In” from 1968 to 1973, earning a Golden Globe for best supporting actress in a series, miniseries, or motion picture made for television as well as several Emmy nominations in the process.
The show, replete with flower-power aesthetics and a raunchy sensibility, showed off Buzzi’s knack for physical comedy above the neck, her characters often contorting their faces for the sake of caricature.
Starting work as an entertainer right out of high school, Buzzi got her start with a guest spot on “The Gary Moore Show,” later becoming a regular on “The Entertainers,” a CBS variety show.
Her variety series chops grew with a stint on “The Steve Allen Comedy Hour,” helping her to land the “Laugh-In” gig and cementing her performance niche as a brilliant character actress with a knack for timing.
Outside of the variety show circuit, Buzzi enjoyed an illustrious career, with several film roles, guest spots on television series, time spent as a regular on “Sesame Street” and a smattering of off-Broadway productions.
In a post made shortly before the announcement of her death, Buzzi’s husband, Kent Perkins, wrote on her Facebook page: “She wants you to know she probably had more fun doing those shows than you had watching them.”
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‘Four Seasons’ Netflix ending explained: Let’s unpack that cliffhanger
Colman Domingo On Returning To Comedy In ‘The Four Seasons’ On Netflix
‘The Four Seasons’ is a breath of fresh air for two-time Oscar nominee Colman Domingo.
Decider.com
Spoiler alert! The following story contains details about the Season 1 finale of Netflix’s “Four Seasons” (now streaming).
For much of the “The Four Seasons,” Jack (Will Forte) and Kate’s (Tina Fey) relationship is on thin ice.
The college sweethearts frequently struggle to communicate throughout the Netflix dramedy (now streaming). With their own daughter, Beth (Ashlyn Maddox), off at school, Kate is frustrated by Jack’s lack of initiative, while he sees her as overly critical. But after a near-death experience on a frozen lake during the winter, the couple takes stock of their love and reaffirms that they are soulmates.
“We are rooting for them to stay together,” says Lang Fisher, who adapted the show from Alan Alda’s 1981 movie with Fey and writer-producer Tracey Wigfield. “There are hills and valleys in every relationship, especially long relationships. If you recently became empty nesters, you’re like, ‘Who have we become? Do we still work together? At this point in our lives, what do we want out of our marriage and for ourselves?’ They are having these growing pains over the season, but in the end, you want them to be like, ‘No, I choose you, and I will take a step towards you when things get tough.’ I hope people will find that very romantic and hopeful.”
Fey first saw the movie roughly 40 years ago, and says she wanted to preserve “tentpole moments” that stuck with her, such as a key fight between Jack and Kate during a college parents’ weekend. But with eight half-hour episodes, she also had time to explore characters such as Anne (Kerri Kenney-Silver) in “a more detailed way.”
Here are a few big questions that we had after watching the “Four Seasons” finale:
Why did the series kill Nick, Steve Carell’s character?
Much of the show’s drama revolves around Nick (Steve Carell), who leaves his wife, Anne, for a younger woman, Ginny (Erika Henningsen). During a ski vacation in the seventh episode, Ginny complains that Nick is not being fully present with her friends. It’s their last conversation before he dies in a fatal car crash on a late-night trip to the grocery store on New Year’s Eve.
Although the series otherwise closely follows the storyline of Alda’s original film, Nick’s death is a major departure.
“We regret it now, because it was great having Steve on the show. What are we going to do for Season 2?” Wigfield jokes. “No, we thought about it a lot, but we made the decision to kill Nick early on (in the writing process). This show is all about middle age and the real stakes of life when you’re in your 40s and 50s. You think your life is so settled, but it’s not so crazy for a friend in their 50s or 60s to die unexpectedly. If we’re doing a show about friends who have seen each other through the good things and the worst things, part of that was wanting to see this group come together in the wake of tragedy.”
The eighth and final episode revolves around Nick’s funeral, as Kate, Jack, Anne, Ginny, Danny (Colman Domingo) and Claude (Marco Calvani) wrestle with how best to memorialize him.
“It shouldn’t be the job of one person to remember someone,” Wigfield says. “Only a big group of friends can truly remember all that a person was.”
What does that pregnancy cliffhanger mean for Ginny (Erika Henningsen)?
From the moment Ginny is brought into the fold in Episode 3, Nick’s pals struggle to accept his bright and adventurous new girlfriend. Ginny eventually calls out the group following Nick’s funeral, explaining that just because they dated for a short period of time it doesn’t mean the relationship was any less meaningful to her.
In other films and TV shows, “you’ve seen the younger woman who might be a little ditzy or shallow, and we wanted to make sure this character felt real,” Wigfield says.
Anne and Ginny ultimately reach an understanding by the end of Episode 8. And while sitting down for dinner in the last moments of the season, Anne reveals to the entire group that Ginny is pregnant with Nick’s baby, just before the credits roll.
“It’s a funny episode, but a sad episode, too,” Fisher says. “We liked the idea that there’s a hopeful tag at the end. Also, in setting up a possible Season 2, it ties Ginny into the group and presents interesting dynamics with her and Anne. Now, they’ll have children who are siblings of very different ages, and it lets Ginny still be part of this group as we see them in the next year moving forward.”
Where might Kate (Tina Fey) and friends go in a potential Season 2?
Netflix has not yet announced whether “The Four Seasons” has been renewed for a second season, but the cast has plenty of ideas about where they would like the show’s core friend group to vacation next.
“If you talk to Marco, he’d be like, ‘We have to visit Claude’s family in Italy!’ Right, Marco, go tell that to (production company) Universal Television,” Fey jokes. “I don’t know. I think Lang and Tracey and I are going to start thinking and talking in a week or two. By then we’ll know whether the world is like, ‘No! Pass!’”
Henningsen offers Poland and Iceland as possibilities, given that Nick was always resistant to go see the Northern Lights (as he called them, “God’s screensaver”). Or, Fey suggests, “maybe they just take an 11-minute journey to space.”
