Anne Hathaway is making 'The Princess Diaries 3' - Eps. 51

Welcome to Episode 51 of the irl Media NEWS Podcast, I'm your host Chris Thompson, and today we discuss Anne Hathaway is returning for 'The Princess Diaries 3' movie, Michael Jordan's 23XI racing team sues NASCAR, Dude Perfect hires Andrew Yaffe as their new CEO, Elon Musk Is launching Tesla’s Robotaxi, and Zoe Saldana is selling her Beverly Hills mansion.

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Transcript

Welcome to Episode 51 of the irl Media NEWS Podcast, I'm your host Chris Thompson, and today we discuss Anne Hathaway is returning for 'The Princess Diaries 3' movie, Michael Jordan's 23XI racing team sues NASCAR, Dude Perfect hires Andrew Yaffe as their new CEO, Elon Musk Is launching Tesla’s Robotaxi, and Zoe Saldana is selling her Beverly Hills mansion.

Business

Dude Perfect fans are pumped up with excitement after the trick-shot legends announced the hiring of Andrew Yaffe as their first-ever CEO. Known for their over-the-top stunts, larger-than-life personalities, and ability to entertain millions of fans worldwide, the move is a strategic one aimed at growing their already impressive media empire. Bringing Andrew Yaffe on board is a signal that Dude Perfect isn’t just playing around - they’re leveling up their business in a big way.

Andrew Yaffe may not be a household name, but he’s no stranger to high-powered roles in the media industry. Andrew Yaffe’s career spans over two decades, with significant experience in the sports and entertainment industries. Before joining Dude Perfect, Andrew Yaffe was an executive at the NBA, where he played a pivotal role in growing the league’s brand and expanding its reach into digital content, youth programming, and international markets. His expertise in creating large-scale, fan-driven experiences aligns perfectly with Dude Perfect’s mission to transform their unique style of entertainment into an even more dynamic media empire.

Andrew Yaffe's track record at the NBA speaks for itself. He was instrumental in fostering partnerships and spearheading new media ventures that attracted millions of fans, making him an ideal candidate to scale Dude Perfect’s already massive global following. His deep understanding of both content creation and brand building is precisely why Dude Perfect’s leadership sees him as the guy to help them reach new heights.

Of course, Dude Perfect wouldn’t be where it is today without the five college buddies who turned their backyard trick shots into one of the world’s most popular YouTube channels. In case you don’t already know Tyler Toney, Cody Jones, Garrett Hilbert, Coby Cotton, and Cory Cotton make what the world has come to know as Dude Perfect.

Tyler "Ty" Toney, who sometimes refers to himself as The Rage Monster, is often regarded as the leader of Dude Perfect. Known for his competitive nature and love for over-the-top trick shots, Ty brings a sense of excitement and intensity to every project the group undertakes. His energetic personality and charisma have made him a standout figure, and his enthusiasm is central to the group's success, driving many of their most ambitious and jaw-dropping stunts.

Cody Jones, affectionately known as "Tall Guy" due to his height, is another key member of Dude Perfect. Fans appreciate Cody for his cool, calm demeanor, which balances the group's high-energy antics. His sharp accuracy in trick shots, paired with his laid-back attitude, makes him a fan favorite, especially in competitive challenges where his composure often shines through.

Garrett Hilbert, better known as the “Purple Hoser” because of his preference for the color purple, brings a unique blend of humor and creativity to the group. Garrett is always coming up with inventive new stunts and ideas for the team, and his playful approach adds a fun dynamic to Dude Perfect’s content. His sense of humor and willingness to try outrageous things have endeared him to the group's massive fanbase.

Coby Cotton is one half of the Cotton twins and is known as the group's optimistic underdog. Despite frequently coming up short in the team’s many "battle" challenges, Coby’s determination and positivity have won him a special place in the hearts of fans. His relentless drive to secure a victory, along with his cheerful attitude, make him one of the most beloved members of Dude Perfect.

Cory Cotton, Coby’s twin brother, is known for his goofy, yet fiercely competitive nature. Cory combines his athletic ability with a playful personality, bringing a mix of entertainment and skill to the team. His competitiveness pushes him to take on some of the most difficult trick shots and challenges, making him an integral part of the group’s success.

Since their YouTube debut in 2009, Dude Perfect has come a long way, with over 60 million subscribers and billions of views on their videos. But their ambitions extend far beyond trick shots and YouTube fame.

The decision to hire Andrew Yaffe comes as Dude Perfect is experiencing explosive growth. The group is no longer just about viral videos - they’re building a legitimate media empire. In 2021, they secured over $100 million in venture funding from Highmount Capital, to expand their content offerings and scale their business. This funding is helping to fuel their ambitious plans, including live tours that draw thousands of fans to arenas across the globe.

Speaking of big plans, Dude Perfect is currently building a new headquarters in North Texas that could cost as much as $100 million to build, and include a 330-foot “Impossible Shot” tower, a Dude Perfect museum, mini golf, a store selling Dude Perfect merchandise, multiple restaurants, and over 2 acres of outdoor space. This new HQ will be much more than an office - it’s part of a broader vision to create a fan experience that rivals theme parks. The new facility will allow fans to engage with Dude Perfect’s content in person, solidifying their status as global entertainment icons.

Their product endorsements also reflect the scope of their brand power. From partnerships with Nerf to collaborations with Samsung and Nike, the group has turned their unique style of content into an influential platform for brands looking to reach young, engaged audiences. The reach of their media empire stretches into television as well, with their own show on Nickelodeon and multiple appearances in commercials and films.

With Andrew Yaffe at the helm, Dude Perfect’s future looks brighter than ever. His background in sports, media, and content creation makes him a natural fit for taking their empire to the next level. As the first CEO in Dude Perfect’s history, Andrew Yaffe will be tasked with scaling their operations, leveraging their brand to attract more lucrative partnerships, and continuing to innovate in content production. The $100 million HQ alone is a signal of how serious the group is about expanding their influence in the entertainment world.

The hiring of Andrew Yaffe is a game-changer for Dude Perfect. Fans can expect even bigger and better things from the group as they continue to build their empire, from massive trick shots to awe-inspiring live tours and beyond. Dude Perfect is no longer just a YouTube sensation—they’re on their way to becoming one of the biggest media brands in the world, and Andrew Yaffe is just the guy to make it happen.

Tech

Elon Musk's journey creating Tesla’s robotaxi service has been a decade of audacious vision, technological challenges, and evolving timelines. Elon Musk first introduced the concept in 2016, presenting it as a key part of Tesla’s future. He promised a fleet of autonomous vehicles that could drive without human input, revolutionizing urban transportation. Like all things Elon Musk, time is more of a concept than a rule of thumb. The plan was to launch these robotaxis by 2020, but the complexity of fully autonomous driving and regulatory hurdles delayed the rollout multiple times. Despite these setbacks, Musk remains resolute that Tesla will ultimately succeed in this ambition.

Elon Musk’s vision for robotaxis centers around the idea of fully autonomous, driverless cars capable of picking up passengers without any human intervention. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving known as FSD, software is the foundation of this goal. FSD, first launched as a beta in 2019, was designed to make Tesla vehicles completely autonomous by leveraging sophisticated AI and advanced sensor technologies. This would effectively transform Tesla vehicles into robotaxi fleets that could be shared or even rented out by their owners, providing a source of income.

Elon Musk has often highlighted the economic potential of robotaxis. He envisions Tesla owners being able to activate their cars as robotaxis when not in use, turning personal vehicles into money-making assets. The financial projections for this endeavor are staggering. Tesla estimates that its robotaxi network could generate billions in annual revenue, with a long-term potential of $3 trillion globally. Yea, Elon Musk doesn’t think small! This network of Tesla robotaxis would cut the cost of rides dramatically, making it more affordable than traditional ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft.

While the vision is grand, the road to achieving fully autonomous driving has proven difficult. Tesla’s FSD software is at the core of these challenges. Though Tesla vehicles come equipped with advanced hardware for self-driving, achieving full Level 5 autonomy - where the car can drive itself in all conditions without any human input - has been far more complex than anticipated. The company has faced setbacks in refining the AI to handle edge cases, or rare driving scenarios that require nuanced decision-making. Tesla’s autonomous driving technology has reached a stage where human drivers still need to remain attentive and ready to take control at any moment.

By 2023, FSD was being used by over 400,000 Tesla drivers, but the software still required human oversight. This meant Tesla had not yet reached the level of autonomy needed for robotaxis to function as initially envisioned. Elon Musk, however, has remained optimistic, often reiterating that full autonomy is within reach and that it’s only a matter of time before Tesla overcomes these technical challenges.

Tesla’s investment in robotaxis and autonomous driving technology has been massive. The company has spent billions of dollars on research and development to perfect its self-driving systems. Between 2016 and 2023, Tesla’s R&D expenditure ballooned, with a significant portion dedicated to AI and autonomous driving technologies. For instance, in 2021 alone, Tesla spent $2.6 billion on R&D, a large part of which went towards refining FSD. These investments are a testament to Tesla's commitment to becoming a leader in the autonomous driving space.

Despite these financial commitments, the project has faced external pressures. Tesla's stock has been volatile, especially as the company missed its initial 2020 robotaxi deadline. Delays in launching the robotaxi service, coupled with growing competition from other automakers and tech companies developing autonomous vehicles, have put Tesla under scrutiny. However, many analysts, including Morgan Stanley, have remained bullish on Tesla’s long-term prospects in this space. Analysts project that Tesla could still dominate the market if it successfully scales its robotaxi fleet by 2030.

In April 2024, Tesla announced it would finally unveil its long-awaited robotaxi during a major event on August 8, only to move the announcement to October. This highly anticipated event would have been seen as a potential turning point for Tesla’s autonomous driving ambitions, but what’s another few months of waiting.

According to Morgan Stanley, the unveiling of Tesla’s robotaxis will not only highlight Tesla’s advancements, but could also set the tone for the future of autonomous transportation well into the 2030s. The robotaxi Tesla is expected to showcase will be a vehicle with no steering wheel or pedals, representing a bold leap towards fully autonomous driving.

However, experts caution that the path to fully commercialized robotaxi services remains fraught with challenges. Beyond the technical hurdles, Tesla will need to navigate legal, regulatory, and ethical issues related to deploying autonomous vehicles on a mass scale. Governments and regulatory bodies across the world have been slow to approve fully driverless cars, citing safety concerns. There are also ethical questions surrounding the decision-making algorithms that power these vehicles, especially in life-or-death scenarios.

Despite these obstacles, the potential rewards are enormous. If Tesla can successfully roll out a fleet of robotaxis, it would fundamentally transform the company’s business model. Instead of being solely a car manufacturer, Tesla would become a leader in autonomous mobility services, potentially rivaling or surpassing ride-hailing giants like Uber and Lyft. The robotaxi fleet would also dramatically reduce the cost of transportation, making mobility more affordable and accessible.

Elon Musk’s decade-long quest to develop Tesla robotaxis has been marked by bold ambitions, staggering financial investments, and a series of technical and regulatory hurdles. While Tesla has yet to realize its vision of fully autonomous robotaxis, the company continues to push forward, with a major unveiling slated for 2024. Whether Tesla can meet its lofty goals remains to be seen, but if successful, the robotaxi network could redefine urban transportation and solidify Tesla’s place as a leader in the future of mobility.

Entertainment

There’s some very exciting news for fans of 'The Princess Diaries' movie franchise! Anne Hathaway is officially returning for a third installment of 'The Princess Diaries', and this time, the beloved film will be directed by Adele Lim, who helmed the 2023 hit comedy 'Joy Ride'. This announcement has been a long time coming, and fans are buzzing with anticipation to see Hathaway reprise her role as the ever-relatable Princess Mia Thermopolis. Anne Hathaway herself has expressed excitement about stepping back into Mia’s shoes, calling the original movie a life-changing experience. With Adele Lim at the helm, the franchise is set to have a fresh, modern take while continuing the fairy-tale magic that audiences adore.

For those who may need a refresher, 'The Princess Diaries' films follow the journey of an awkward teenager Mia Thermopolis, played by Anne Hathaway, who discovers she’s the heir to the throne of the fictional European kingdom of Genovia. In the first movie, released in 2001, Mia navigates high school while learning the ropes of royalty with the guidance of her regal grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi, played by the legendary Julie Andrews. The movie's plot centers on Mia's transformation from a socially awkward teenager to a poised princess. By the end, Mia chooses to embrace her royal heritage, with a heartfelt decision to move to Genovia and prepare for her future as queen.

The first 'The Princess Diaries' movie earned $165 million at the global box office, with $108 million from domestic sales. The charming blend of fairy tale and coming-of-age comedy struck a chord with audiences, establishing Anne Hathaway as a leading lady in Hollywood.

In 'The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement', which debuted in 2004, Anne Hathaway reprises her role as  Thermopolis, who returns to Genovia, only to find herself in a predicament - she must marry within 30 days to claim the crown. This leads to a whirlwind of comedic events, including a love triangle between Mia, her arranged fiancé, and Nicholas Devereaux, played by the hysterical Chris Pine. In the end, Mia proves that she doesn’t need a man to rule and is crowned Queen of Genovia without having to marry, marking a huge victory for both her character and the movie’s progressive message.

'The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement' generated $134 million worldwide, with a domestic gross of $95 million. Though it didn’t quite reach the same financial success as the original, it solidified Mia Thermopolis as a fan-favorite character and created a strong demand for this third film.

While specific plot details are still under wraps, we do know that 'The Princess Diaries 3' will follow the life of Queen Mia, continuing her royal adventures in Genovia. Given that Mia ended the second film as a strong, independent monarch, fans are eager to see how her reign has evolved in the time since. Anne Hathaway’s return was confirmed in October 2024, and although Chris Pine has expressed interest in reprising his role as Mia’s love interest, Nicholas Devereaux, his return has yet to be officially confirmed.

Julie Andrews, who played Queen Clarisse, has been more reluctant about returning. In past interviews, she mentioned the long gap between films and how sometimes it’s best to leave a good thing alone. Still, Andrews hasn’t completely ruled out the possibility, and fans remain hopeful that she might make a cameo or at least be involved in some capacity.

As for the direction of the film, Adele Lim is expected to bring a fresh energy and a modern twist to the series. Known for her work on 'Crazy Rich Asians' and 'Joy Ride', Lim is an experienced storyteller who is no stranger to female-led narratives. Her involvement signals that 'The Princess Diaries 3' may focus even more on Mia’s personal growth, leadership, and empowerment.

To say that fans are excited about Anne Hathaway’s return to 'The Princess Diaries' would be an understatement. Since rumors of a third installment started circulating in the early 2020s, fans have been eagerly waiting for confirmation. Anne Hathaway herself has been open about wanting to return to the role, noting how much love she has for Mia Thermopolis and the films’ enduring impact. The official announcement in 2024 has only fueled the excitement, with social media buzzing with nostalgia and anticipation for Mia’s return to the big screen.

With Anne Hathaway’s charisma, Adele Lim’s directorial vision, and the timeless charm of 'The Princess Diaries' story, the third film promises to be a spectacular addition to the beloved franchise. Whether it’s revisiting old characters or introducing new ones, 'The Princess Diaries 3' will undoubtedly remind audiences why they fell in love with Genovia - and Mia - over two decades ago. Fans can’t wait to see what royal adventures await in this next chapter!

Real Estate

Zoe Saldana is once again trying to sell her lavish Beverly Hills mansion, this time with a substantial price drop. The "Avatar" star first listed the property at $16.5 million but has now reduced the asking price to $11.995 million, knocking off a whopping $4.5 million in hopes of attracting a buyer. Located in the prestigious Hidden Valley Estates, the property is a classic example of Hollywood luxury, but after multiple attempts to sell, Zoe Saldana appears eager to close a deal.

Zoe Saldana originally purchased this stunning estate in 2016 for $8.7 million. Since then, she has meticulously upgraded the 6,400-square-foot home, adding her personal touches, such as brass accents and custom cabinetry. The mansion boasts five bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and expansive living areas, ideal for both family life and entertaining. The estate also includes high-end amenities like a designer kitchen, a resort-like backyard featuring a pool, spa, and tennis court, and access to hiking trails in nearby Franklin Canyon.

The home's Colonial-style architecture adds a touch of timeless elegance, while modern updates ensure it remains functional and stylish. The master suite alone is a luxurious retreat, with its own fireplace, spa-like bathroom, and private balcony. All these features combine to make the home a high-value property in Beverly Hills' competitive real estate market.

Despite the home’s many attractions, Zoe Saldana has had to lower the asking price several times. The property was initially listed at $16.5 million, but after failing to sell, the price was cut by $4.5 million, now sitting at just under $12 million. This reduction marks the fourth time she has relisted the mansion, reflecting the tough real estate market even in high-end areas like Beverly Hills. While it's common for celebrity homes to undergo price adjustments, the magnitude of the reduction shows Zoe Saldana’s commitment to making a sale.

Zoe Saldana’s real estate portfolio extends beyond her Beverly Hills mansion. Earlier in 2024, she purchased a $17.5 million home in Montecito, California, where she counts Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry as neighbors. The Montecito estate, Casa de Buena Vista, is a historic 1930s property that spans nearly 10,000 square feet and features vintage touches like mission tiling and intricate light fixtures. It also includes a pool, tennis court, and sweeping views of the Santa Ynez Mountains.

Zoe Saldana has also owned other properties, including homes in New York City, where she spent much of her early career. With her move to Montecito, it’s clear she’s shifting her focus from Beverly Hills to a quieter, more private lifestyle while trying to offload her previous residence.

Zoe Saldana's career has been nothing short of remarkable. She first gained recognition in 2000 for her role in the dance film *Center Stage* but rose to international fame through her performances in major blockbuster franchises. She played Neytiri in James Cameron’s ‘Avatar’ and reprised her role in the long-awaited sequels. Her portrayal of Gamora in Marvel’s ‘Guardians of the Galaxy films has also made her a fan favorite in the superhero genre.

Her success in these franchises has led to significant financial rewards. Zoe Saldana is the first actor to star in four movies that have each grossed over $2 billion globally, cementing her status as one of Hollywood’s elite. With a net worth estimated at around $60 million, her real estate investments are just one part of a diversified portfolio that includes collaborations with top brands and other business ventures.

Despite her incredible success in film, Zoe Saldana has faced challenges in selling her Beverly Hills mansion. After dropping the price by $4.5 million, she’s hoping this latest relisting will finally bring a buyer for the luxurious home. Between her Beverly Hills estate and her new Montecito residence, Zoe Saldana has made smart moves in both her career and her real estate investments. For now, potential buyers have the chance to snag a piece of celebrity real estate at a significant discount - if they act fast.

Sports 

Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing team has made headlines for filing a lawsuit against NASCAR and its CEO, Jim France, over alleged monopolistic practices. The suit, filed in federal court, centers on NASCAR's charter system, with Michael Jordan’s team accusing NASCAR of strong-arming teams into accepting unfair terms that significantly limit their share of revenue. 23XI Racing, co-owned by Michael Jordan and driver Denny Hamlin, along with Front Row Motorsports, are challenging NASCAR's control over how much money teams receive and their inability to renegotiate more favorable terms in their agreements.

Michael Jordan, best known for his legendary NBA career, surprised many when he ventured into NASCAR. A long-time fan of racing, Michael Jordan co-founded 23XI Racing in 2020 with Denny Hamlin, a prominent NASCAR driver. Michael Jordan’s passion for the sport runs deep, dating back to his childhood when he attended NASCAR races with his father. The 23XI Racing team was established with the goal of diversifying the sport, both in terms of ownership and in attracting a broader fanbase. Michael Jordan has always been an avid NASCAR fan and decided to take his love for racing to the next level by owning a team, emphasizing that this venture was about creating opportunities and winning championships. 23XI Racing quickly made waves with Bubba Wallace as its first driver, securing a win at Talladega in 2021.

For those of you who may not know, or are too young to remember, Michael Jordan is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time - some would even argue better than LeBron James, but I digress. Michael Jordan’s legendary career began in the NBA in 1984 when he was drafted by the Chicago Bulls as the third overall pick. Over the course of his 15-season career, Michael Jordan won six NBA championships with the Bulls, earning five MVP awards and ten scoring titles. His influence extended beyond the court, with his charismatic personality and competitive drive making him a global icon. Michael Jordan’s game-winning shots, dominance in clutch moments, and electrifying performances solidified his status as a basketball legend.

Off the court, Michael Jordan made a fortune through endorsement deals and smart investments. His partnership with Nike led to the creation of the Air Jordan brand, which revolutionized sports apparel and made Michael Jordan a household name. The Air Jordan line became a cultural phenomenon, with billions in sales worldwide. Jordan also signed lucrative endorsement deals with brands like Gatorade, Hanes, and McDonald's, further increasing his earnings. 

In addition to his NBA salary and endorsements, Michael Jordan made significant financial moves post-retirement. In 2010, he became the majority owner of the Charlotte Hornets (then known as the Charlotte Bobcats), acquiring the team for $175 million. Under his leadership, the team's value skyrocketed, making Michael Jordan the first former NBA player to become a billionaire. In 2023, Michael Jordan sold his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets for $3 billion. With all of his various business ventures, including investments in real estate and other industries Forbes estimates Michael Jordan’s net worth to be over $3 billion dollars. Michael Jordan's ability to transition from basketball superstar to successful businessman is a testament to his savvy and competitive spirit.

The conflict between 23XI Racing and NASCAR highlights a key difference between NASCAR and other major U.S. sports leagues, such as the NBA, MLB, and NFL. In these leagues, teams collectively own the league, giving them a say in its operations, from revenue sharing to rule changes. In contrast, NASCAR remains a privately-owned entity, run by the France family since its inception in 1948. The teams that compete in NASCAR do not own any part of the organization, meaning they lack the influence that teams in other sports leagues have.

This ownership structure is a point of contention for racing teams, especially as the sport evolves and its financial landscape changes. In the lawsuit, Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports allege that NASCAR is exploiting its monopoly power, preventing teams from negotiating a fairer cut of the revenue generated by the sport. By controlling key decisions, such as charter agreements, NASCAR effectively leaves the teams with little leverage in negotiations.

At the heart of the lawsuit is the charter system, introduced by NASCAR in 2016. Charters guarantee teams a spot in races, a necessary move to provide stability to teams and encourage long-term investment. However, the lawsuit argues that the system has now turned into a tool for NASCAR to maintain an unfair advantage. Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports are particularly frustrated with NASCAR’s refusal to negotiate improved financial terms for teams when renewing their charters beyond 2024. According to the complaint, teams were presented with a “take-it-or-leave-it” offer that forced them to either accept the terms or risk losing their charters altogether .

By filing the lawsuit, 23XI Racing is not only challenging NASCAR's practices but also seeking an injunction to allow the teams to continue competing in the 2025 season without forfeiting their right to pursue antitrust claims. Michael Jordan and his team argue that the way NASCAR is run today hurts not just the teams and drivers but the fans and sponsors as well. The goal, according to Jordan and Hamlin, is to create a more competitive environment where all stakeholders in the sport share fairly in its success.

Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing lawsuit against NASCAR could have far-reaching implications for the sport. While NASCAR’s current structure has allowed it to maintain control over its operations, this legal challenge may force it to reconsider how it works with teams. The lawsuit shines a light on the growing frustration within the NASCAR community, as teams seek more influence and a bigger share of the revenue generated by the sport. Michael Jordan, who has been a fan of racing for decades, is now leveraging his business acumen and star power to fight for changes that could shape the future of NASCAR. Should the teams succeed in court, it could lead to a more balanced partnership between NASCAR and the teams, much like the models seen in the NBA, MLB, and NFL. This case could mark a pivotal moment in the sport’s history, opening up new possibilities for how racing teams operate within NASCAR.