Netflix Sets First Live-streamed Event with Chris Rock Special

Chris Rock, already one of the world's biggest comics, drew headlines when he was slapped on stage by Will Smith at the Oscars Robyn Beck AFP/File
Chris Rock, already one of the world's biggest comics, drew headlines when he was slapped on stage by Will Smith at the Oscars Robyn Beck AFP/File
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Netflix Sets First Live-streamed Event with Chris Rock Special

Chris Rock, already one of the world's biggest comics, drew headlines when he was slapped on stage by Will Smith at the Oscars Robyn Beck AFP/File
Chris Rock, already one of the world's biggest comics, drew headlines when he was slapped on stage by Will Smith at the Oscars Robyn Beck AFP/File

Netflix will stream an event live for the first time next year, with comedian Chris Rock hosting a real-time special for the on-demand platform that has lured millions of viewers away from traditional broadcast television.

The comedy show, which will be Rock's second for Netflix after 2018's "Chris Rock: Tamborine," will be available to watch in early 2023, the company said, without providing further details.

"Chris Rock is one of the most iconic and important comedic voices of our generation," said Netflix comedy vice-president Robbie Praw, in a statement.

"We're thrilled the entire world will be able to experience a live Chris Rock comedy event and be a part of Netflix history, AFP said.

"This will be an unforgettable moment and we're so honored that Chris is carrying this torch."

Netflix, which lost subscribers for the first time earlier this year before recently reporting a return to growth, has been experimenting with new models, including a cheaper subscription option subsidized by advertisements.

On Tuesday, the Wall Street Journal reported that Netflix was looking into offering live sports on its platform for the first time.

Rivals including Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video already offer live events including sports and musical events.

Netflix hosts a live comedy festival at more than 35 venues in Los Angeles, but those shows have not yet been available to stream live on its platform.

Rock, one of the world's biggest comics, drew headlines in March when he was slapped on stage by Will Smith at the Oscars.



Pearl Jam Drummer Matt Cameron Says He’s Leaving the Band After Nearly 30 Years

Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam performs during BottleRock Napa Valley on Saturday, May 25, 2024, in Napa, Calif. (AP)
Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam performs during BottleRock Napa Valley on Saturday, May 25, 2024, in Napa, Calif. (AP)
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Pearl Jam Drummer Matt Cameron Says He’s Leaving the Band After Nearly 30 Years

Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam performs during BottleRock Napa Valley on Saturday, May 25, 2024, in Napa, Calif. (AP)
Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam performs during BottleRock Napa Valley on Saturday, May 25, 2024, in Napa, Calif. (AP)

Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron said Monday that he’s leaving the band after nearly 30 years.

The 62-year-old Cameron announced his departure in a social media post.

“After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” Cameron said. “Much love and respect to Jeff, Ed, Mike and Stone for inviting me into the band in 1998 and for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter.”

Cameron didn't give a reason for his departure.

“Matt Cameron has been a singular and true powerhouse of a musician and drummer. He has propelled the last 27 years of Pearl Jam live shows and studio recordings. It was a deeply important chapter for our group and we wish him well always,” Pearl Jam members said in a statement posted to the band's social media accounts.

They made no mention of a replacement.

Cameron, who played drums for Soundgarden for more than a decade before joining Pearl Jam, was not a founding member of the band and didn't play drums for the early albums that made them rock superstars.

But he provided some much-needed stability at the drum kit after the band had gone through four others since its inception. He first joined in 1998 as a temporary replacement for Jack Irons, playing on a long tour before making his studio debut with the group on 2000's “Binaural.”

He just finished a yearlong tour with the band in support of its 12th studio album, “Dark Matter.”

Cameron was born and raised in San Diego before moving to Seattle shortly before its music scene became a global phenomenon. He played in proto-grunge band Skin Yard before joining Soundgarden. He did double duty with Pearl Jam and a reunited Soundgarden from 2010 to 2017.