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

Alison Rey, Alexis Malone Lead Latest From Swappz

Alison Rey and Alexis Malone star in the latest release from Swappz's "MomSwap" series, titled “Four-Way 69 — The Hunting Moms.”

Abigaiil Morris Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Abigaiil Morris stars with Danny D in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "Cooking With Abigaiil."

Barbie Rous Is Hustler's 'Cover Honey' for April

Barbie Rous is the Cover Honey for the April issue of Hustler Magazine and appears in a 12-page centerfold spread shot by Davide Esposito.

Lovita Fate Returns to Immoral Productions

Lovita Fate stars in the latest trilogy from Immoral Productions, alongside Devils Kos, Terry Banks, and studio honcho “Porno Dan” Leal.

Andi Avalon, Emma Rosie Front Latest From Girlsway

Andi Avalon and Emma Rosie star in the latest Girlsway release, titled “Her Favorite Dessert.”

Performer/Creator Seth Peterson Passes Away at 28

Performer and creator Seth Peterson passed away on Saturday, according to his fiancé and best friend, Kobe Marsh. Peterson was 28.

Alina Lopez on Finding the Blueprint for XMA Gold

“This year, I’ve already traveled out of the country, gone to two major award shows and bought a new house,” Alina Lopez tells XBIZ, offering a sigh of exhaustion. “And February’s not even over.”

Avery Lust Leads New Scene from Grooby

Avery Lust stars in the latest release from Grooby Girls, titled “In the Wild.”

Avery Lust, Kasey Kei & Nicole Vaunt Headline 'TS Adventures 2' From TransSensual

Avery Lust, Kasey Kei, and Nicole Vaunt topline “TS Adventures 2” from Mile High Media studio imprint TransSensual.

Evil Angel Debuts Sabien DeMonia's 'Polish Fuck Machine'

Evil Angel has released the latest directorial title from reigning Euro XMAs MILF Performer of the Year Sabien DeMonia, “Polish Fuck Machine.”

Show More