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

Richard Mann Drops New Evil Angel Scene With Ravyn Alexa

Ravyn Alexa stars in an Evil Angel scene alongside director/performer Richard Mann.

Rocco Siffredi Drops New Evil Angel Scene With Amber Kawaii

Amber Kawaii stars with Little Maly in a new Rocco Siffredi-helmed Evil Angel scene.

Lilly Bell Leads Latest From Girlsway

2025 XMAs Girl/Girl Performer of the Year Lilly Bell stars in the latest Girlsway release, titled “You Won’t Last a Day!”

Octavia Red, Cherry Kiss & Seth Gamble Star in 'Devil in Her' From Elegant Angel

Reigning XMAs Girl/Girl Performer of the Year Octavia Red stars with Cherry Kiss and Seth Gamble in Elegant Angel’s crime thriller "Devil in Her."

Scott Nails on Building a Lasting Career With Blue-Collar Grit

When you hear the name Scott Nails, certain images probably come to mind. On this sweltering summer afternoon, however, the only nailing in sight is happening beneath the swing of a hammer.

X3 Expo 2027 All-Stars Unveiled, Dates Set for Jan. 8-9

X3 Expo will make its L.A. LIVE debut at the JW Marriott on Jan. 8-9, bringing together fans and industry insiders for North America’s largest assembly of stars, alongside a dazzling lineup of attractions spotlighting the cutting edge of modern media and pleasure tech.

Courtney Tillia, Girthmasterr Star in Latest From Brazzers

Courtney Tillia stars with Brazzers exclusive Girthmasterr and Kaiia Eve in the studio's latest release, "Yoga, Massage, Sex...In That Order!"

Adriana Chechik Returns to Dorcel for 'Dirty Game'

Adriana Chechik headlines the latest release from Dorcel, titled “Dirty Game.”

Keeley Kennedy Makes Her WIFEY Debut

Keeley Kennedy has made her debut for Vixen Media Group studio imprint WIFEY alongside her husband Seth and Chocolate Rod.

On the Set: Ricky Greenwood Makes a Case for Dystopian Desire in 'The Tribunal'

Outside a warehouse on a scorching, treeless frontage road in Compton, there is little to suggest that a movie is being made behind its nondescript walls. Similar buildings across the Southwest frequently house adult productions, their unassuming exteriors concealing carefully lit sets where crews labor over every visual detail.

Show More