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

Freeuse Debuts New Limited Series 'Time Stop Universe'

Freeuse has released it's new three-scene limited series, "Time Stop Universe."

Blake Blossom Fronts Latest From New Sensations

Blake Blossom stars with Dante Colle in the latest release from New Sensations.

Tiffany Tatum, Bella Mur Lead Dorcel's 'Thr3e #10'

2023 Euro XMAs Female Performer of the Year Tiffany Tatum and Bella Mur headline the latest release from Dorcel, titled “Thr3e #10.”

Richard Mann Drops 1st Evil Angel Threesome With Naomi Korae, Nico Luva

Naomi Korae and Nico Luva star in Richard Mann’s first Evil Angel threesome scene.

Anna Bella Returns to Immoral Productions

Anna Bella stars in a new four-part release from Immoral Productions, alongside Matt Bird, Terry Banks, and studio honcho “Porno Dan” Leal.

Jazmine Cruz, McKenzie Mae Make Their Girlsway Debuts

Jazmine Cruz and McKenzie Mae make their Girlsway debuts in the latest installment of "Mommy's Girl," titled "The Bare Minimum."

Alanna Pow Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Alanna Pow stars with Scott Nails in the latest release from Brazzers.

Kimmy Kimm, Khloe Kapri & Alex Jones Lead Latest From Bellesa Plus

Kimmy Kimm and Khloe Kapri star with multi-XMAs winner Alex Jones in the latest scene from Bellesa Plus, titled “Her Last Day.”

FreeUse to Drop New Limited Series 'Time Stop'

FreeUse will premiere a three-part limited series next week, titled “Time Stop.”

Lola Riley Makes Her WIFEY Debut

Lola Riley has made her debut for Vixen Media Group studio imprint WIFEY alongside her husband, Devon, and Hollywood Cash.

Show More