Catherine O'Hara

"It's not boring. And I have my own Mr. Softee truck. It's not - it's not boring."

Catherine O'Hara as Gail in Martin Scorsese's After Hours

Your light will always shine bright...Rest In Power

Catherine O'Hara on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine_O%27Hara 

DevOUT

A raw and powerful coming-out story from the beloved American Idol finalist traces David Archuleta’s journey from closeted Mormon teen to global pop star to openly queer man, revealing the hidden pressures of fame, the weight of religious expectations, and the courage it takes to live authentically.

 

People magazine - here

 

 At just seventeen, David Archuleta rose to national fame as the runner-up on American Idol season seven, captivating millions with his angelic voice. Behind the scenes, however, he was struggling with a truth he feared would destroy everything: he was attracted to men—and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

 

In DEVOUT, David takes you inside his deeply personal journey as a closeted Mormon teen turned international pop star, torn between faith, fame, and identity. From dealing with the pressures of being on a hit television show to a domineering father who controlled every aspect of his career—even being banned from the show’s set—David reveals the emotional abuse and inner turmoil that he says plagued his childhood. 

 

This searing memoir reflects on David’s ventures with American Idol, a tour with Demi Lovato, and a two-year sabbatical as a missionary in South America, charting his path through heartbreak, estrangement, three engagements, thoughts of suicide, and finally, his courageous decision to leave the Mormon Church in order to live authentically as a queer man. Featuring never-before-seen photos, DEVOUT is a must-read for fans of pop culture, American Idol, and anyone deconstructing their religious upbringing, or who’s ever wrestled with who they are versus who they’re told to be.

 

“A lot of people who saw teenage David on TV thought they knew me. In DEVOUT, I share that there was a lot more going on behind the scenes than many realized—with me, with my family, and with the show. I had to recondition almost everything I learned or was taught to believe, and that process can be challenging. This is a story about finding courage within yourself during your absolute darkest moment to persevere and become who you truly are.”

 

 

Watching David come into his own—embracing love, owning his truth, and standing fully in the beauty of who he is—has been one of the most inspiring transformations

I’ve ever seen. He reminds us all that our greatest gift is not just our talent, but the willingness to be unapologetically ourselves.” – Paula Abdul

 

And David will hit the road on a seven-city book tour beginning February 17 in New York at 92NY (See All Book Tour Dates Below).  Each event will include a Q&A discussion as well as autograph signing with the purchase of the book.  In addition, David will also release a 3-song EP of new music written specifically about themes in the book.  The DEVOUT EP will be available only thru the purchase of the audiobook HERE which will also be released on February 17, 2026.

David shares more on the Devout EP - Since this book is looking back at the prequel of my life as it is for me today, I wanted to go back to the feel of how I approached music as a young musician trying to figure out himself, and how younger David approached his life or felt like he had to approach his life with music. The songs are a bit more raw, more vocally focused, and really about telling the story to complement the story I tell in my memoir.    The focus track from the EP is “Old and Young” HERE – “Old and Young” is a song about the state of limbo you feel you're in after going through a big life change. We don't see things the same way as we once did. You've gotten so much older but yet are starting a completely new chapter of life so you feel like a baby in terms of experience and knowing what to do. In the process you realize you don't have to be perfect and that you are human.” 

Book Tour Dates

Tuesday, February 17 – New York City at 92NY @ 7:30 pm

(W/DEVOUT collaborator Valerie Frankel) - Ticket Link

 

Wednesday, February, 18 – Boston at WBUR City Space @ 7:00 pm (w/Amory Sivertson) - Ticket Link

 

Thursday, February 19 – Chicago at Barbara’s Bookstore at Macy’s on State Street @ 6:00 pm –

(Please note this event is a meet & greet and signing only.  No Q&A)  Ticket Link

 

Friday, February 20 – St. Louis at Clayton High School Theatre @ 7:00 pm (w/Shane Mullen) - Ticket Link

 

Monday, February 23 – Austin, TX at Book People @ 7:00 pm (W/Johnny Sibilly) - Ticket Link

 

Tuesday, February 24 -  Salt Lake City at Utah Museum of Fine Arts @ 7:00 pm (W/Jessi Draper of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives) - Ticket Link

 

Wednesday, February 25 – Los Angeles at Barnes & Noble/The Grove at Farmer’s Market @ 7:00 pm (w/Dan Reynolds of Imagine Dragons) - Ticket Link

Follow David Here:

TikTok 1.2M Followers + 21M Likes

Instagram 810K Followers 

Facebook 3.4M Followers

YouTube 900k Subscribers 

Spotify 2.7M monthly listeners

Twitter 1.1M Followers 

Michael's Musings

If I Was King For Just One Day, I Would Give It All Away
Michael Shinafelt

"I've heard it said or maybe read

Only money makes the world go round
But all the gold won't heal your soul (won't heal your soul)
If your world should tumble to the ground

You say you hunger
For something, you can't get at all
And love is not enough anymore" - Thompson Twins, King For A Day

Fear is boring. Just f#cking go for it, the more you know...

Blocking someone on Social Media isn't enough. They must have lice and crabs too!

Pro Tip: You can say saucy jizz instead of sausages and no one will ever notice, that's all

My dream is to go to a wedding where someone says: NO

I'm going to be wet for hours, think about it, but not too much

Should you happen to fall down drunk pretend you did it to make a snow angel

FYI I read banned books, and aren't you happy???

Seeing Sam Raimi's Send Help tomorrow, I can't wait for his return to the genre that made him famous: Horror 

Woman Crush of the Week - Olivia Wilde, for having two Sundance darlings. Starring in Greg Araki's I Want Your Sex as a dom and directing and starring in The Invite. Way to go!

Disliking me is valid. I probably confronted you on your poor behavior while everyone else just accepted it. You know who you are...

Got a new tattoo on my right forearm, it says: "Tomorrow is never promised"

Punk Rock was right about everything!!!

Remember when you could strangle people with your phone? Those were the days.

No where did I put that?

Help me find it here:

https://www.instagram.com/michaelshinafelt/?hl=en

https://bsky.app/profile/michaelshinafelt.bsky.social

https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelshinafelt   

Hump Day & Chill

Margot Robbie & Jacob Elordi

 “He's more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.”

― Emily Brontë, Wuthering Heights

In case you haven't heard there's a new version of Wuthering Heights hitting theaters February 13th. Not so coincidentally in time for Valentine's Day.

It stars Margot Robbie & Jacob Elordi, and is written and directed by Emerald Fennell. She's the filmmaker responsible for one of my favorite films Saltburn.

Thus here we have Margot & Jacob hitting the road to promote their joint venture in a sporty convertible.

Hey, it doesn't get anymore Hump Day & Chill than this! 

Let's say it's Hump Day & Chill at it's coolest, that's all.

Wuthering Heights on IMDb -

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32897959/

Marked Safe

Indeed...

Gaslighting on Psychology Today -

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/gaslighting   

The More You Know...

Sharon Tate

Sharon Tate had what would have been her 83rd Birthday on January 24. I came across this cool piece of history yesterday on the WWW. "Yes" it's a behind the scenes shot of Tate as Jennifer North in Valley of the Dolls.

Here are some of her thoughts on being in the movie:  

• Strategic Career Move: Tate recognized the film's commercial potential, stating it was a, "smash box office success" that achieved exactly what it intended to do.
• Connection to Character: She found Jennifer North to be the most compelling character in the novel, expressing sympathy for her, and noted that "there are many Jennifers in the world".
• Professional Growth: Despite the film's later reputation, she was glad to have made it, but expressed a desire for a change in roles afterward.
• Critique of Hollywood: During that era, she felt pressured by the industry's tendency to view her only as a "sexpot" or "piece of merchandise". 

Valley of the Dolls served as a pivotal, albeit controversial, role in her career, showcasing her ability to play complex, albeit tragic, characters. 

The more you know...

Sharon Tate on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sharon_Tate  

Agnes Moorehead Is God

Agnes Moorehead
as
Endora

Here's a little bit of Hollywood History you most likely haven't heard about. It's the infamous graffiti: "Agnes Moorehead Is God"

For those of you who are unfamiliar Ms. Moorehead is best know for her role of Endora, mother to Elizabeth Montgomery's Samantha Stephens on Bewitched. I have included her photo above.

Here is the 411 on the graffiti via Vintage Los Angeles:

"In 1986, a block and a half north of Hollywood Blvd, on Vine St., was a concrete wall, bordering a parking lot, with barbed wire across the top. Sprayed in sprawling jagged letters across this wall was the announcement, “AGNES MOOREHEAD IS GOD.” A play on Clapton Is God.

For those who are new to this, this was originally put up by an unknown person in the early 80s between the old Ontra cafeteria and the Hollywood palace (now the Avalon) . Certainly inspired by the Agnes Moorehead walk of fame star which is right out front.



During that period people from the parking lot and anti-graffiti vigilantes would paint over it. Then fans would restore it. This went on for many years in many colors"

Agnes Moorehead on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agnes_Moorehead

Westworld

On February 24, Arrow Video presents the blockbuster science fiction western Westworld in its global 4K UHD debut. Director and writer Michael Crichton (author of the bestselling novel Jurassic Park) thrilled and scared viewers with what technology can do at an immersive amusement park. The Limited Edition release features a brand new 4K restoration from the original negative by Arrow Films, hours of special features, and newly commissioned extras. There is also a Blu-ray release.

Peter Martin (Richard Benjamin, Love at First Bite) and John Blane (James Brolin, The Amityville Horror) visit the futuristic Delos resort, which allows guests to fully experience life in medieval times, the Roman era, and the American West. Martin and Blane choose to be cowboys in Westworld, ready for a rip-roaring escape from reality. What sets Westworld apart from a family-friendly theme park like Disneyland’s Frontierland is that its employees are androids, designed to be fully indulged by the guests. The android locals won’t shoot back in a duel or resist being taken to bed. This proves useful as Martin and Blane repeatedly fire their six-shooters at The Gunslinger (Yul Brynner, The Magnificent Seven) to sharpen their showdown skills. It’s the holiday of a lifetime until something goes wrong with the park’s computer programming. Suddenly, the androids are no longer subservient to the humans. Can the duo survive the Old West when fantasy becomes reality and the Gunslinger finally draws on them?

Special features include a 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible); the original restored lossless 4-channel stereo, 2.0 stereo, and 1.0 mono audio options and an optional remixed 5.1 DTS-HD MA surround audio; optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing; a brand new audio commentary; a newly filmed conversation between actor Richard Benjamin and producer/screenwriter Larry Karaszewski (Ed Wood); brand new video interviews with actor James Brolin and producer Paul N. Lazarus III; a brand new video appreciation; an archival behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film; the pilot episode of the television series Beyond Westworld; the theatrical trailer; image gallery; a perfect bound booklet; double-sided fold-out poster; and six postcard-sized artcards.

Watch the trailer for Westworld here: https://youtu.be/ojDtMkYII_M?si=rSYpqv1nOO-LJdHa

Order Here: https://customers.mvdb2b.com/b2b/s/AV804  

Just Because...

Natalie Wood

Just Because I'm in the mood for something different, Just Because it's Friday & Just Because I am a big fan of Natalie Wood, here it is Natalie Wood being whimsical with something straight outta the citrus family! (Since the shot is Black & White I can't tell if it's an orange or a grapefruit, for practical reasons I'm going with orange)

For those of you who don't know me "Yes" Natalie Wood was my first movie star crush. I remember the moment it happened was seeing her in West Side Story for the first time. I was completely mesmerized by her beauty, charisma and talent. She was Maria!

Once I saw that I devoured everything thing she did. She was so heartbreaking in Splendor in the Grass. In Rebel Without A Cause she was teen angst incarnate. 

"Yes" I could go on, but I won't.

Enjoy your weekend, Just Because...

Natalie on Instagram -

https://www.instagram.com/nataliewood/ 

Michael's Musings

Lord Of The Wild Things
Michael Shinafelt

"Wild thing

You make my heart sing
You make everything groovy
Wild thing

Wild thing, I think you move me
But I wanna know for sure
So come on and hold me tight
You move me" - The Troggs, Wild Thing

A male witch is called a witch. Not a wizard, not a warlock, not a sorcerer, not a magician. Just a witch...the more you know

Will you be my freak on a leash? Think about it, but not too much

The John Hughes classic "Pretty In Pink" celebrates turning 40 with a return to theaters February 13 -16, yep in time for Valentine's Day

If they want to see you as the villain...Then strike a pose!

Sometimes even a Rock Star like you needs a break, that's all

Veronica Mars is currently on Netflix. Since I've never seen it I decided to give it a go. Yep, I'm hooked!

It's official I've lost 26lbs on my GLP-1. Started at 197 am down to 171, there's that.

Today is the most humiliating day in American History. At least until tomorrow.

Woman Crush of the Week - Rachel McAdams who just got her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Looking forward to seeing Sam Raimi's Send Help in which she stars opening next weekend!

"I don't know who I am" and other such dilemmas.

Pro Tip: Tell a coworker they swallowed too many kids and that's why everything that comes out of their mouth is childish. Let me know how it goes...

Dr. Wiggles Weiner Wagon, say that three times fast

They apologized, but I already mailed a piece of their hair to this lady in New Orleans, Ooops!

Consider this a warning: I found you in this lifetime and I will find you in the next.

Let's meet here:

https://www.instagram.com/michaelshinafelt/?hl=en

https://bsky.app/profile/michaelshinafelt.bsky.social 

https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelshinafelt  

Hump Day & Chill

Michael Shinafelt

"I will drive past your house

And if the lights are all down
I'll see who's around

One way, or another, I'm gonna find ya
I'm gonna get ya, get ya, get ya, get ya
One way, or another, I'm gonna win ya, I'll get ya, I'll get ya" - Blondie, One Way Or Another

Hey Minions, if you are seeing this the curse is lifted! Yay! 

It's time to Hump Day & Chill...I'm going to drink wine and listen to Blondie. 

Whatever you choose, we've earned it!

Time to get to it, enjoy 😎

Blondie on IG -

https://www.instagram.com/blondieofficial/?hl=en   

"A Place In Time"

Long Island, NY — Progressive rock quartet Dhärä return today with their expansive new single “A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided)”, offering the next glimpse into their forthcoming full-length album Elemental Four, arriving January 11, 2026.

Known for their immersive instrumental storytelling and dynamic compositions, Dhärä continue to push beyond strict genre boundaries on “A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided).” The track unfolds with patience and atmosphere before erupting into driving rhythms, soaring guitar interplay, and a powerful sense of momentum—highlighting the band’s signature balance between precision, emotion, and scale.

The band shares: "This is the opening of our concept album Elemental Four. "A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided)" introduces many themes that are heard throughout the album. This album is also a concert movie that features five ballerinas who perform modern lyrical dance to the music. Elemental Four is a journey of four entities whose world is shaken by a meteor which threatens their existence. They are separated by a great earthquake, and the only path to saving the planet and themselves is to unify and summon The Conduit, whose power can hopefully vanquish the threat."

Stream the new single here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dhr1/dhr-2 

Watch the video: https://youtu.be/bgegZtzrjJM?si=jRY9wnZdPoorjL5m

Pre-save the album here:  https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/dhr1/elemental-four

Since forming in 2015, Dhärä have been steadily carving out a distinct voice within progressive and instrumental rock. Based in Long Island, New York, the band has released an EP, standalone singles, eclectic music videos, and even a coordinated custom light show—embracing a fully DIY ethos from recording and production to visuals and live presentation. This new single marks another step forward in what the band describes as only the beginning.

Critics have consistently praised Dhärä for their virtuosity, atmosphere, and cinematic approach:

“The way the song is sort of divided into two parts is really interesting, with a skyrocketing shift in dynamic and tempo about halfway through… There’s also a little bit more prog in Dhärä’s DNA, which might make people think more of projects like Skyharbor or The Helix Nebula.”
— Michael Whiteside, Deputy Editor, Fecking Bahamas

“The guitars in this track create an absolutely captivating atmosphere and an inspiring arrangement… irresistible riffs and melodies unfold, combined with intense drive and concentrated energy.”
— Indie Tapes Blog/Playlist

“Playful and versatile… incredible virtuosity… epic and exciting instrumental progressive rock without needing any vocals.”
— Zona Emergente

“Let the melody of this song sweep you away… a dreamlike opening that gradually envelops us in a tinkling, atmospheric soundscape.”
— End Sessions MX

“Awesome guitar work and spirit that captures a bit of a cinematic and melancholic atmosphere.”
— We All Want Someone To Shout For

Dhärä is comprised of four distinct creative voices whose differences fuel their sound: Chris Rodriguez (drums), Austin Sandick (guitar), Kay Tyagi (guitar), and Ryan DiPietrantonio (bass). Together, they focus on building immersive atmospheres while always serving the song—embracing instrumental music as a limitless medium for exploration and expression.

“A PLACE IN TIME, (the entities, divided)” is available now on all major platforms. Elemental Four arrives January 11, 2026. 

Listen & Follow Dhärä:
Main Website: https://www.dharamusic.com/
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/dharamusic
Bandcamp: https://dhara.bandcamp.com/album/dh-r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dharamusicny
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dharamusicny/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dharamusicny

Matin Luther King Jr.

In Honor & Remembrance...

Martin Luther King Jr. Day 

Martin Luther King Jr on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King_Jr.  

Walking in LA...

Photo:
Michael Shinafelt

Hit Rough Trade in the Sunset Junction (one of my favorite hoods in Los Angeles) section of Silverlake, CA the other day and while walking around the area I came up this slogan splashed a few times in various places throughout:

DON'T BE DUMB

IMO this statement has arrived somewhat on the tardy side. "Yes" it's late. However perhaps there is hope that collective consciousness will gain enough wisdom to perhaps salvage something from the wreckage.

IYKYK.

So keep on keeping and have a Sunday Funday!

Yeah, that's the ticket...

Visit Sunset Junction on Wikipedia -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunset_Junction

Current Mood

The Only Erika That Matters, Erika Jayne

While scrolling through Social Media I happened upon this, I assume, candid image of Erika Jayne of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills.

Upon seeing it I had all the feels of my Current Mood. "Yes" this is how I am feeling at present and this is actually the kindest way I can express it. Trust me if you wanted me to share my actual thoughts you would bear witness to a way harsher form of self expression, indeed.

Kudos to whoever captured this image of Erika and a feel good shout out to the diva for giving zero f#cks about it.

Hope your Current Mood is more stellar than mine, don't forget to brush your teeth...

Toothbrush Drop!

Erika on IG -

https://www.instagram.com/theprettymess/?hl=en 

Guess What? I Love You

At forty-one, musician MIKE MAIMONE never imagined he would become a widower. In GUESS WHAT? I LOVE YOU (Fox & Quill; February 10, 2026), Maimone chronicles the profound love story he shared with his late husband, legendary publicist Howard Bragman, whose groundbreaking career empowered countless public figures and everyday people to live more openly and authentically.

Written with candor, warmth, and emotional precision, GUESS WHAT? I LOVE YOU weaves together humor, heartbreak, spirituality, and healing. The memoir offers an intimate portrait of a relationship sparked by unexpected magic on a hookup app, deepened through a months-long phone courtship, and culminating in a life-changing first weekend walking hand-in-hand through New York City. Maimone captures not only Bragman’s larger-than-life public persona, but also the tenderness, vulnerability, and emotional generosity known only to those closest to him.

“Revisiting the hospital experience was the hardest part,” Maimone reflects. “I cried a lot while putting those moments on the page.” At times, the process was so excruciating that he admits he questioned why he put himself through writing the book at all.

A recurring thread throughout GUESS WHAT? I LOVE YOU is Maimone’s transformative “Year of Yes,” a period marked by openness, surrender, and the courage to release control over both life and career. Guided by Bragman’s mentorship and hard-earned wisdom, Maimone discovers balance, renewed creative clarity, and a healthier relationship with success; insights that resonate far beyond the entertainment industry.

Music remains central to Maimone’s storytelling. A lifelong album artist, he approaches the memoir with the same emotional intentionality that defines his songwriting, carefully shaping tone and narrative across each chapter. The accompanying album, also titled Guess What? I Love You, serves as a true companion piece, deepening the book’s emotional impact. Songs such as “Paranoid in Paradise,” “So Hard to Let Go,” and “Big Kiss” echo moments on the page, while the stories behind the music add rich new layers to the listening experience.

Throughout his journey, Maimone invites readers—especially those navigating grief—to embrace connection, remain open to unexpected possibilities, and allow themselves to experience the full spectrum of human emotion.

Visually, the book’s cover reflects the spirit of the story itself. Featuring illustrated cake pops (a symbol of joy discovered amid loss), the artwork honors a love story that didn’t unfold as planned, but was deeply meaningful, fully lived, and profoundly transformative. 

Michael's Musings

Shiny Happy People
Michael Shinafelt

"Everyone around, love them, love them

Put it in your hands, take it, take it
There's no time to cry, happy, happy
Put it in your heart where tomorrow shines
Gold and silver shine

Shiny happy people holding hands
Shiny happy people holding hands
Shiny happy people laughing" - R.E.M. "Shiny Happy People"

To think we survived a pandemic for this, that's all

Saw David Lynch's Mulholland Drive again on Tubi. The older I get the more linear the film becomes. IYKYK!

Thought of the Day: Am I polarizing enough?

Speaking of others is easy, facing the battles they have won is another story. Indeed...

I've gotten a tattoo for every decade of my life since my twenties. Currently deciding on what I should get for my 60th. Any suggestions?

FYI I'm done adulting, let's be dragons, the more you know

This is not a safe space for your hatred. You can choke on it. Disrespectfully.

Smile, Laugh, Talk, Drink, Dance, Eat A$$, carry on.

Woman Crush of the Week - Hunter Schafer in the role she was born to play Jules Vaughn. Can't wait for Season 3 of Euphoria to drop April 12th! 

Rewatched some episodes of The Comeback with Lisa Kudrow on HBO yesterday. What a brilliant show!

When a Ford worker is held to a higher standard than the President of the Unites States, discuss.

"The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are" - Carl Jung

My toxic trait is knowing the truth before I ask because I wanna see how good you lie. What's yours???

I'm feeling quite ______ the blank is yours to fill in

Let's fill it in together here -

https://www.instagram.com/michaelshinafelt/?hl=en

https://bsky.app/profile/michaelshinafelt.bsky.social

https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelshinafelt