Venice News Today — August 31, 2026
‘Lanterns’ Stars Aaron Pierre, Jasmine Cephas Jones on John’s Backstory Episode and How Being Black Informs His Quest to Become Green Lantern: ‘Fear Is Instilled in Our Ancestry’ and more — today's venice signal.
As we kick off another day in Venice, the city's vibrant cultural scene is abuzz with news that's making waves far beyond the Lido. The stars of the highly-anticipated series 'Lanterns' are opening up about the complexities of identity and representation in the show, with Aaron Pierre and Jasmine Cephas Jones diving deep into the backstory of their characters and the ways in which their experiences as Black people inform their quests for justice. Meanwhile, the music world is mourning the loss of a legend, as Dolly Parton's family confirms that the beloved singer-songwriter has been laid to rest after a private funeral.
From the world of entertainment, tributes are pouring in for Parton, with CBS airing a special episode, 'Remembering Dolly: A Rhinestone Life', that promises to celebrate her remarkable life and career. But beyond the headlines, there's a deeper conversation happening about the ways in which we connect - or don't - across generations and cultural lines. Alabama Shakes are out with a new album that's all about unity and togetherness, while a new study suggests that the real political divide may not be between Boomers and Gen Z, but rather something more complex. And in honor of a lifetime of contributions to the arts, Laura Dern will present George Clooney with the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement here in Venice. It's shaping up to be a day that's all about connection, creativity, and celebration.
Today's signal:
• ‘Lanterns’ Stars Aaron Pierre, Jasmine Cephas Jones on John’s Backstory Episode and How Being Black Informs His Quest to Become Green Lantern: ‘Fear Is Instilled in Our Ancestry’ (variety.com)
• Dolly Parton ‘Laid to Rest’ After Private Funeral, Family Says (rollingstone.com)
• How to Watch the CBS Special ‘Remembering Dolly: A Rhinestone Life’ (rollingstone.com)
• The Real Political Divide Isn’t Between Boomers and Gen Z (rollingstone.com)
• Alabama Shakes Say New Album Is About ‘People Being Unified.’ That Includes Them (rollingstone.com)
• Laura Dern to Give George Clooney Venice Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement (variety.com)