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

Rachel Rampage Makes Her Jules Jordan Debut

Rachel Rampage has made her debut for Jules Jordan Video alongside Manuel Ferrara.

Zoey Uso, Demi Hawks & Skylar Snow Front Latest From Girlsway

Zoey Uso, Demi Hawks, and Skylar Snow star in the latest Girlsway release, titled “Perky and Perfect.”

Maddie Wren Makes Her Tushy Debut

Maddie Wren has made her debut for Vixen Media Group studio imprint Tushy, alongside reigning and three-time XMAs Male Performer of the Year Vince Karter.

Jade Venus Stars in Latest From Evil Angel

Jade Venus stars with Sage Roux in the latest scene from the Evil Angel series “Transsexual Angel.”

Jewelz Blu Stars in Latest From Family Strokes

Jewelz Blu stars with Aila Donovan and Troy Francisco in the latest release from Family Strokes.

Octavia Red Stars in 'Octavia Loves Girls' From Elegant Angel

Reigning XMAs Girl/Girl Performer of the Year Octavia Red stars in the Claudia Ross-helmed Elegant Angel showcase "Octavia Loves Girls."

Suzanne Holly Makes Her WIFEY Debut

Suzanne Holly has made her debut for Vixen Media Group studio imprint WIFEY alongside her husband Dirk and Hollywood Cash.

2026 XBIZ Amsterdam Conference Schedule Announced

XBIZ is pleased to announce the release of the full show schedule for XBIZ Amsterdam, set to take place Sept. 10-13 at Passenger Terminal Amsterdam.

Charlotte Sins on Porn, Power and Freedom

Charlotte Sins is cracking the whip. Or at least, she’s pretending to. Standing over a masked submissive on the set of her X3 cover shoot in North Hollywood, she’s a glam femdom vision in stiletto heels and retro ’50s pinup black hair. Leather whip draped over her bare shoulders, its black tip dangling suggestively between her long, tan legs, Sins moans softly.

Armani Black to Star in Latest From Bellesa Plus

Armani Black stars in the latest installment of the Bellesa Plus reality series “The Bellesa Challenge.”

Show More