Canceled ‘Pirates II’ Screening Gets CNN’s Attention

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Digital Playground's Adella appeared on CNN Thursday to discuss the recent cancellation of the University of Maryland's screening of the studio's blockbuster, “Pirates II: Stagnetti's Revenge.”

CNN's “Prime News” featured the Digital Playground director of marketing in a debate with Maryland state Sen. Andrew Harris.

They discussed the merits of showing adult entertainment in an academic setting. Conservative host Mike Galanos moderated the discussion, which aired at 6:24 p.m. EDT on Thursday.

The screening of “Pirates II: Stagnetti's Revenge,” originally scheduled for April 4, was canceled by the university president because the Maryland state Legislature threatened to cancel university funding.

“I had a great time on CNN and relished the opportunity to engage in a discussion with those responsible for censoring consenting adults,” Adella said. “It was empowering to educate the senator on the modern era of adult entertainment, including female owned and operated studios, female viewers and the need to embrace sex.”

Digital Playground said the story about the canceled screening of “Pirates II: Stagnetti's Revenge” made headlines worldwide, including: CNN, Fox, ABC, CBS, NBC, Washington Times, Washington Post, Baltimore Sun and Sacramento Bee.

It also was on DrudgeReport.com, the “Laura Ingraham Show,” Australia's NineMSM.com.au, McClatchyDC.com and countless additional publications and blogs.

Samantha Lewis, Digital Playground's CEO, said the idea for the university screenings came from the company’s desire to provide a forum for students to “openly discuss the topic of modern sexuality, gender roles and adult entertainment.”

“The screenings also allows for those unfamiliar but curious about adult entertainment to see a movie that is story and effect driven and appeals to numerous people,” Lewis said. “In fact, removing all the sex left us with our MPAA R-rated version which is doing extremely well in stores like Blockbuster and Best Buy.”

Related:  

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Pervz Drops Latest Installment of 'Polar Opposites'

Pervz has debuted the latest installment of the Reptyle cross-site release "Polar Opposites," starring McKenzie Mae, Emma Rosie, Demi Hawks, Coco Lovelock, and Danny Mountain.

Jasmine Sherni, Blake Blossom Headline 'Dirty Talk' From Dorcel

Jasmine Sherni and Blake Blossom star in "Dirty Talk," the latest feature from Dorcel.

Scarlett Alexis, Vince Karter Front Latest From Bellesa Plus

Scarlett Alexis and three-time XMAs Male Performer of the Year Vince Karter star in the latest release from Bellesa Plus, titled “Obedience.”

Aleksa Mink Stars in Latest From HardX

Aleksa Mink stars with Isaiah Maxwell in the latest release from XEmpire studio brand HardX.

X3 Expo Unveils Euro All-Stars for Inaugural Amsterdam Edition

X3 Expo, Hollywood's premier adult entertainment expo, makes its European debut at Passenger Terminal Amsterdam Sept. 11-12, bringing together fans, creators, and industry insiders for the Continent’s largest assembly of adult entertainment stars, alongside a dazzling lineup of attractions spotlighting the cutting edge of modern media and pleasure tech.

2026 Pornhub Awards Nominees Announced

The list of nominees has been revealed for the eighth annual Pornhub Awards, which will be held May 27 in Los Angeles.

Andi Avalon, Madelyn May Front Latest From New Sensations

Andi Avalon and Madelyn May star in the latest release from New Sensations.

Elly Clutch Makes Her Debut as Brazzers Exclusive

Multi-XMAs winner Elly Clutch makes her debut as a Brazzers exclusive alongside Jordi El Niño Polla in the studio's latest release, titled "As If You Can Handle Elly."

Aleksa Mink Fronts Latest From Pure Taboo

Aleksa Mink stars with Jason Sarcinelli in the latest release from Pure Taboo, titled "What She Would Have Wanted."

Lana Smalls Headlines 4th 'My Horny Step-Sister' From Reality Junkies

Lana Smalls toplines the fourth volume of "My Horny Step-Sister" from Mile High Media studio imprint Reality Junkies.

Show More