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 © 2025 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

Octavia Red Stars in Latest From Deeper

Octavia Red stars with Manuel Ferrera in the latest release from Vixen Media Group studio imprint Deeper, titled “She Done Him Wrong.”

Sarah Arabic, Vicki Chase Topline Dorcel's 'The Next Step'

Sarah Arabic and Vicki Chase star with multi-XMAs winner Seth Gamble in the latest feature from Dorcel, titled “The Next Step.”

Sabien DeMonia to Drop 'Sabien Ass Fuck'

Evil Angel has announced “Sabien Ass Fuck,” the first title from director/performer Sabien DeMonia.

Bree Mills on Directing 'Escape From Camp Conversion' for Adult Time's Girlcore Banner

Bree Mills was out running one day when the title of her next movie came to her: "Escape From Camp Conversion." The chief creative officer of Adult Time had been thinking about how to combine her love for queer cinema and lesbian pulp fiction with the distinct aesthetic of the 1980s.

Ricky's Room Signs Willow Ryder to 1-Year Deal

Ricky’s Room has signed Willow Ryder to a non-exclusive, multi-scene contract for one year.

Ariel Demure Headlines 'TS Chronicles' From TransSensual

Reigning XMAs Trans Performer of the Year Ariel Demure toplines “TS Chronicles” from Mile High Media studio imprint TransSensual.

Adult Time Debuts Bree Mills Thriller 'Escape From Camp Conversion'

Adult Time has released the first installment of the Bree Mills-helmed thriller "Escape From Camp Conversion," from studio brand Girlcore.

Angellica Good Returns to TransAngels

Angellica Good stars with William Seed in the latest release from TransAngels, titled “Jumping to Cumclusions.”

Haley Spades Stars in Latest 'Accidental Gangbang' From Adult Time

Haley Spades stars in the latest installment of Adult Time series "Accidental Gangbang," titled "Drilled During Detention."

Sarah Arabic, Madison Morgan Star in Latest From Brazzers

Sarah Arabic and Madison Morgan star with Van Wylde in the latest release from Brazzers.

Show More