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Paramount+ adds live streaming channels

Paramount+ is adding a new way for viewers to consume their content library, as the streaming service now includes live channels that function similar to traditional TV.

The initial batch of 18 channels includes one focused entirely on Star Trek, which will stream episodes from new shows like Discovery and Picard and classics like Deep Space Nine and The Next Generation. There are other franchise-specific channels for Survivor, The Challenge, PAW Patrol, and SpongeBob Squarepants as well.

Other channels focus on themes and genres, including drama, comedy, adult animation, black voices, and reality shows. “Nostalgic Hits” includes series from the ‘80s and ‘90s like Cheers, Frasier, and Wings. “TV Classics” goes further back with episodes from I Love Lucy, The Love Boat, The Twilight Zone, and more.

Kid-friendly channels include “Animation Favorites,” “Kids & Family Fun,” and “Preschool Corner.” A movies channel will also be added later this month.

Garfield arrives in Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl

Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl hasn’t been out that long, and it’s already adding to its roster with the lasagna-loving cat Garfield.

His attacks include things familiar to fans of the iconic cartoon feline, such as flailing with his claws, tap dancing, using food items like lasagna and pies, and incorporating his beloved stuffed bear, Pooky. His fighting stage, called Sweet Dreams, has a ground made of lasagna with two floating pizza platforms.

Garfield is available right now as free DLC for everyone who owns the game.

Colleen O’Shaughnessey returning as Tails for Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Voice actor Colleen O’Shaughnessey has been the voice of Tails since 2014, originally taking on the role with Cartoon Network’s Sonic Boom TV series. Now, the actor has announced that she will be reprising the role once again, this time on the big screen for Sonic the Hedgehog 2. She joins the returning Ben Schwartz as the titular hedgehog, and Idris Elba, who makes his first appearance as Knuckles.

It’s a welcome, yet surprising decision for the studio, as up to this point they’ve largely ignored the voice cast from past Sonic projects. In fact, Roger Craig Smith, the voice of Sonic for the past 10 years, told me on The Geek Generation Podcast that he wasn’t even given the chance to audition for a part.