分类: entertainment

  • Beyoncé declared a billionaire by Forbes

    Beyoncé declared a billionaire by Forbes

    Forbes has officially designated global music icon Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as a billionaire, cementing her position as the fifth musical artist to enter its prestigious ranking of the world’s wealthiest individuals. This landmark achievement places her within an exclusive circle of musicians boasting ten-figure fortunes, a group that includes Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Bruce Springsteen, and her husband, Jay-Z—the latter of whom Forbes estimates holds a net worth of $2.5 billion.

    The publication had previously projected this financial milestone earlier in the month, noting her estimated net worth of $800 million and anticipating her imminent ascension to billionaire status following a period of extraordinary commercial success. A primary driver of this growth was the monumental Renaissance World Tour in 2023, which generated nearly $600 million in revenue. This tour not only solidified her status as a premier pop icon but also led to a concert film. Distributed directly through a partnership with the AMC theater chain, the film allowed her to retain nearly half of its $44 million global box office earnings.

    Further amplifying her financial and critical acclaim, her 2024 album, ‘Cowboy Carter,’ was hailed for its celebration of the Black origins of country music. The project earned the Album of the Year award at the Grammy Awards—her first win in the category after four prior nominations. The subsequent Cowboy Carter tour, featuring appearances by Jay-Z, two of their children, and former Destiny’s Child members, accrued over $400 million in ticket sales and an additional $50 million in merchandise revenue.

    Despite breaking attendance records at venues like London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and the Stade de France in Paris, the tour encountered challenges with slower ticket sales in some markets, prompting promoters to reduce prices to ensure full attendance. Nonetheless, it featured the highest top-tier ticket price for any artist performing in the UK in 2025, reaching £950, with entry-level tickets priced at £71.

    Additional revenue streams contributing to her billionaire status include an estimated $50 million performance fee for a special halftime show during Netflix’s inaugural Christmas Day NFL broadcast, alongside a $10 million endorsement deal for a series of Levi’s commercials.

    In a note on industry valuations, Forbes addressed a discrepancy with Bloomberg’s billionaire index, which listed Selena Gomez with a net worth of $1.3 billion in 2024. Forbes contested this assessment, instead estimating Gomez’s wealth at approximately $700 million.

  • New Year’s Eve 2026 in Dubai: The most extravagant, unique experiences to celebrate NYE

    New Year’s Eve 2026 in Dubai: The most extravagant, unique experiences to celebrate NYE

    Dubai is poised to redefine luxury New Year’s Eve celebrations with an unprecedented array of extravagant experiences for welcoming 2026. The emirate has curated spectacular events that transform the city into a global epicenter of opulent celebrations, featuring everything from celestial dining to superstar performances.

    At Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel, revelers can ascend 250 meters above Bluewaters Island for an exclusive aerial celebration. This singular experience offers panoramic 360-degree views of Dubai’s iconic skyline with premium vantage points for the midnight fireworks spectacle. Ticket options range from Dh315 for standard cabins to Dh12,000 for private VIP accommodations, complete with gourmet catering and premium beverages.

    The iconic Burj Al Arab presents a culinary masterpiece at Al Muntaha, where Michelin-starred Chef Saverio Sbaragli orchestrates an ultra-luxe gala dinner. Priced between Dh7,000-8,000, this sophisticated affair combines breathtaking panoramic views with refined gastronomy in one of Dubai’s most architecturally significant settings.

    Atlantis, The Palm elevates celebrations with a blockbuster Winter Wonderland gala featuring Grammy-winning pop sensation Maroon 5. The custom-built open-air deck provides sweeping views of Palm Jumeirah while guests enjoy award-winning cuisine and a hit-packed performance culminating in a synchronized fireworks display. Ticket tiers span from Dh4,500 for premium seating to Dh200,000 for the exclusive VIP Sky Suite experience.

    Maritime elegance awaits aboard Lady Nara’s luxury dhow, which transforms into a floating masquerade ball on Dubai Canal. This glamorous voyage blends Mediterranean-inspired dining with theatrical performances against a backdrop of illuminated skyscrapers. Starting at Dh2,000, guests experience an intimate celebration with front-row views of fireworks reflecting across the water.

    For those preferring terrestrial luxury, 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant at Address Downtown offers curated dining packages ranging from Dh4,999 to Dh9,999 per person. Each option features multi-course menus, unlimited premium beverages, and live entertainment, with family-friendly accommodations available in designated areas.

    These meticulously orchestrated experiences demonstrate Dubai’s commitment to creating unforgettable moments that blend architectural marvels, culinary excellence, and world-class entertainment, establishing new benchmarks in global New Year’s Eve celebrations.

  • All you need to know about Thalapathy Vijay’s last movie ‘Jana Nayagan’

    All you need to know about Thalapathy Vijay’s last movie ‘Jana Nayagan’

    Tamil cinema superstar Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, popularly known as Thalapathy Vijay, is poised to conclude his illustrious acting career with the highly anticipated film ‘Jana Nayagan’ before transitioning into full-time politics. The upcoming cinematic venture has generated unprecedented excitement, underscored by a record-breaking remuneration of approximately Rs 2.75 billion (Dh 112.4 million) for the lead actor, potentially making him India’s highest-paid film star.

    The film’s pre-release events have drawn massive attention, particularly the audio launch in Kuala Lumpur’s National Stadium Bukit Jalal that attracted over 70,000 attendees—reportedly a record audience for such an event in Malaysia. Directed by H Vinoth, known for critically acclaimed works like ‘Nerkonda Paarvai,’ the film features an ensemble cast including Pooja Hegde, Bollywood star Bobby Deol (as the antagonist), Mamitha Baiju, Prakash Raj, and Priyamani. Music composition is handled by Anirudh Ravichander, whose previous collaborations with Vijay have produced numerous chart-topping hits.

    With an estimated production budget of Rs 3 billion (Dh 122.7 million), ‘Jana Nayagan’ represents one of the most ambitious projects in Tamil cinema. The film’s commercial prospects are bolstered by significant rights sales: Amazon Prime Video secured digital rights for Rs 1.21 billion while Zee Tamil acquired satellite rights for Rs 640 million.

    The production’s context is particularly noteworthy as Vijay deliberately concludes his acting career during a professional peak, with recent successes including ‘Leo,’ ‘Greatest of All Time,’ and ‘Varisu.’ His political aspirations have added layers of significance to the release, evidenced by his pointed criticisms of Tamil Nadu’s ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party during promotional events.

    Adding to the drama, ‘Jana Nayagan’ will face box office competition from ‘Parasakthi,’ distributed by Red Giant Pictures—a company founded by DMK’s Udhayanidhi Stalin—whose release date was strategically moved to January 10, intensifying the commercial and political rivalry. Despite speculation about the film being a remake of Telugu cinema’s ‘Bhagavanth Kesari,’ director H Vinoth has emphatically denied these claims, characterizing ‘Jana Nayagan’ as “100 percent entertaining and engaging” original content that embodies the essence of Thalapathy Vijay’s cinematic legacy.

  • Tylor Chase to enter rehab after receiving medical care

    Tylor Chase to enter rehab after receiving medical care

    Former Nickelodeon child actor Tylor Chase, best known for his role as Martin Qwerly in ‘Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide,’ is transitioning to a specialized rehabilitation facility after completing urgent medical care. This development follows a coordinated intervention by concerned former colleagues and friends who mobilized to address his deteriorating mental health condition.

    The situation reached a critical point when Chase was admitted to a Riverside, California hospital under a mandatory 72-hour psychiatric hold. Medical professionals determined that extended treatment was necessary before his transfer to a dedicated rehabilitation center.

    The intervention gained momentum after disturbing videos surfaced online showing Chase living homeless on Riverside streets. One particularly viral clip from September, which circulated widely in December 2025, showed the actor calmly discussing his Nickelodeon career while apparently living in destitute conditions.

    Jacob Harris, proprietor of Shipwreck Barbershop, emerged as a pivotal figure in Chase’s recovery journey. On Christmas Day, Harris spent nearly three hours with the actor before contacting a crisis intervention team that conducted an immediate evaluation. ‘I had to do something,’ Harris stated. ‘I finally found a crisis center that would perform an on-site assessment.’

    Former co-star Daniel Curtis Lee had previously attempted to assist Chase by securing temporary hotel accommodation. However, these efforts were complicated when Chase reportedly damaged the room shortly after check-in, consistent with warnings from family members about previous unsuccessful intervention attempts.

    The entertainment community’s concern for Chase highlights ongoing challenges faced by former child actors transitioning to adulthood, particularly regarding mental health support and post-career stability.

  • Timothee Chalamet celebrates 30th birthday with childhood pictures

    Timothee Chalamet celebrates 30th birthday with childhood pictures

    Academy Award-nominated actor Timothée Chalamet commemorated his 30th birthday with a deeply personal social media celebration that captivated his global fanbase. The cultural icon marked this significant milestone by sharing an intimate collection of childhood photographs through his official Instagram account, offering followers a rare glimpse into his formative years.

    The nostalgic visual journey included youthful moments of athletic engagement in soccer and ping-pong matches, a heartfelt photograph alongside his father Marc Chalamet, and contemporary images showcasing his dramatic physical transformation featuring a shaved-head appearance during aquatic activities. Accompanied by his characteristic exuberance, Chalamet’s caption enthusiastically acknowledged birthday wishes while humorously embracing his new status as “Uncle TimmyTim” – playfully referencing internet slang that denotes entering a more mature life chapter.

    The celebration took an extraordinary turn when Britain’s Got Talent sensation Susan Boyle delivered a surprise musical tribute, performing a heartfelt rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ in a viral video message. This gesture represented a reciprocal acknowledgment of Chalamet’s previous generosity, as the actor had gifted Boyle a custom jacket inspired by his forthcoming film ‘Marty Supreme’ as part of an extensive promotional campaign that has included similar gifts to celebrities including Tom Brady, Justin Bieber, and his partner Kylie Jenner.

    Chalamet’s professional achievements throughout 2025 have established this birthday as particularly significant. His critically acclaimed portrayal of music legend Bob Dylan in ‘A Complete Unknown’ earned him nominations across all major award ceremonies including the Academy Awards, BAFTA Awards, Critics’ Choice Awards, and Golden Globes, culminating in a Screen Actors Guild Award victory. During his acceptance speech, the actor articulated his artistic philosophy, expressing dedication to ‘pursuing greatness’ while drawing inspiration from legendary performers who preceded him in the industry.

  • Advanced Media launches
CINECommunity for MENA creatives

    Advanced Media launches CINECommunity for MENA creatives

    Dubai-based Advanced Media Trading, a leading distributor of professional broadcast and cinema equipment across the Middle East and North Africa region, has announced the return of its biannual digital cinema event, CINECommunity. Scheduled for January 15-17, 2026, at the company’s UAE headquarters in Dubai, this initiative celebrates the UAE Year of Community through strategic collaborations with Courtyard Art & Community Centre and Analog The Room.

    The three-day program will feature nine specialized digital cinema workshops addressing contemporary industry topics. These include cinematic lighting techniques after sundown, digital intermediate film laboratory processes, and sustainable production practices titled ‘greening the UAE screen one frame at a time.’ Notably, this edition marks a significant milestone with half of the workshops being led by accomplished female instructors, including Los Angeles-based cinematographer Sarah Winters, Cairo-based director of photography Zeina Khalil, and Abu Dhabi’s pioneering sustainable production advisor Nena Ostrogovic.

    The event will also welcome returning instructors Fouad Aoun and Nikita Petsa, alongside new participants from Prague-based VFX studio Magic Lab. In a unique tribute to Dubai’s cultural landscape, Advanced Media has transformed its premises to replicate the iconic environment of Al Quoz’s The Courtyard, where founder Dariush Zandi will present a seminar on ‘the importance of community in the creative process’ on January 16.

    Additional programming includes a hands-on workshop titled ‘Journey Through Camera Evolution and Hands On with All Formats’ conducted by Mohammed Kamal, founder of AnalogTheRoom. Kaveh Farnam, co-founder and chairperson of Advanced Media Trading, emphasized the event’s collaborative nature: ‘Cinema, or any other creative production, is inherently collaborative. We wanted to emphasize the importance of community and teamwork as part of our mission to position ourselves as facilitators and supporters.’

    Registration for the free 90-minute workshops opened on December 25, 2025, with sessions conducted in Advanced Media’s showroom and training space. The facility will remain open to the general public from 2-8 pm daily throughout the event duration.

  • Horse sculptures gallop into Harbin Ice and Snow World

    Horse sculptures gallop into Harbin Ice and Snow World

    The Harbin Ice and Snow World in China’s Heilongjiang province has transformed into a breathtaking equestrian wonderland in anticipation of the upcoming Year of the Horse. This annual winter spectacle, renowned for its magnificent ice architecture, has fully embraced the zodiac theme with an impressive collection of horse-themed sculptures carved from ice and snow.

    The frozen kingdom now showcases a diverse array of equine artworks that capture the dynamic spirit and progressive energy symbolized by the horse in Chinese culture. These meticulously crafted sculptures range from life-sized galloping stallions to abstract interpretations of equine forms, all illuminated by the park’s signature colorful lighting systems that create a magical atmosphere after dark.

    Artists and ice sculptors have employed specialized techniques to achieve remarkable detail in their frozen creations, from flowing manes to muscular contours, demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship in sub-zero temperatures. The exhibition serves both as an artistic celebration and cultural homage to the upcoming lunar year, which begins in February 2025.

    Beyond their visual spectacle, these frozen equestrian displays carry deep cultural significance, conveying traditional wishes for success, prosperity, and good fortune in the coming year. The thematic installation represents one of the most ambitious zodiac celebrations in the festival’s history, continuing Harbin’s tradition of blending ancient cultural elements with contemporary ice sculpture techniques.

    The Year of the Horse installation will remain on display throughout the winter season, expected to attract millions of domestic and international visitors to northeastern China’s most famous winter destination.

  • ‘Angel for animals’: Peta founder hails French film icon Brigitte Bardot

    ‘Angel for animals’: Peta founder hails French film icon Brigitte Bardot

    The global animal rights community is mourning the loss of French cinematic legend Brigitte Bardot, who passed away at age 91. Ingrid Newkirk, founder of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), issued a heartfelt tribute celebrating Bardot’s transformative journey from international screen icon to one of history’s most influential animal welfare advocates.

    Newkirk characterized Bardot as ‘an angel for animals’ who consistently leveraged her celebrity status to champion animal protection causes. The PETA founder revealed that Bardot had personally participated in numerous organizational campaigns throughout her advocacy career, including a successful 2013 initiative that persuaded luxury British retailer Fortnum & Mason to cease sales of foie gras.

    Bardot’s remarkable transition from entertainment to activism began in 1973 when she voluntarily retired from her illustrious film career at its peak. She relocated permanently to her Saint-Tropez residence on the French Riviera, where she established what would become her life’s work: the Brigitte Bardot Foundation for animal protection in 1986.

    Her advocacy portfolio encompassed diverse and impactful campaigns spanning several decades. She emerged as a vocal protector of baby seals and elephants, campaigned vigorously against ritual animal sacrifice practices, and demanded the closure of horse slaughterhouses. Newkirk emphasized that Bardot often stated she ‘truly bloomed’ through her animal protection work, and called upon the public to honor her memory by performing acts of kindness toward animals.

  • Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the UAE: From fireworks and beach parties to desert countdowns

    Where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the UAE: From fireworks and beach parties to desert countdowns

    The United Arab Emirates is poised to welcome 2026 with an extraordinary array of New Year’s Eve celebrations, offering uniquely crafted experiences across its iconic destinations. From Dubai’s glittering skyline to the serene Arabian desert, revelers can select from an impressive portfolio of events designed for every preference and demographic.

    Elevated celebrations take flight at Atlantis, The Palm’s Dubai Balloon, where the NYE Sky Carnival offers dual ascents providing unparalleled 360-degree views of fireworks illuminating the metropolitan landscape. This premium experience combines aerial spectacle with ground-level festivities including carnival décor, curated culinary offerings, and symbolic intention-setting rituals.

    Family-oriented programming dominates at Dubai Parks and Resorts, featuring daytime activities ranging from adrenaline zones to immersive escape rooms, culminating in a 9:30 PM fireworks display at The World of Riverland. The destination’s distinctive T-Rex Glamping package delivers dinosaur-themed accommodations, themed dinners, and exclusive park access for prehistoric-inspired revelry.

    Coastal celebrations emerge as prominent alternatives, with Luchador at Aloft Palm Jumeirah hosting Latin-inspired rooftop festivities featuring live music and premium beverages. Similarly, Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain presents its White Beach Party, offering chilled bubbles and DJ sets against oceanfront fireworks in a relaxed dress-in-white atmosphere.

    Gourmet experiences abound at premium establishments including DREAM Dubai’s immersive 10-course culinary spectacle, Ergon Agora’s Mediterranean-inspired communal feast, and Mausam’s opulent multi-course menu paired with direct Burj Khalifa fireworks visibility. Cultural authenticity finds expression at Liwa Village’s desert celebration within the Liwa International Festival, framing the countdown against dramatic dunescapes under open skies.

    Nostalgic programming surfaces at Black Tap Dubai Mall with 90s throwback music and unlimited share-style menus, while Purani Dilli offers exclusive private dining for groups seeking authentic Indian flavors. Movenpick’s Glitter Gala and Swissôtel Al Ghurair’s family feast provide comprehensive entertainment packages featuring international cuisines, live performances, and dedicated children’s activities.

    With pricing spanning from accessible family packages to premium experiences exceeding Dh3,000 per person, the UAE’s 2026 New Year’s Eve portfolio demonstrates sophisticated event curation across diverse environments and cultural motifs, solidifying the nation’s status as a global celebration destination.

  • ‘Drishyam 3’ producer sends notice to Akshaye Khanna for exiting project; Jaideep Ahlawat in

    ‘Drishyam 3’ producer sends notice to Akshaye Khanna for exiting project; Jaideep Ahlawat in

    The production of the highly anticipated Bollywood sequel ‘Drishyam 3’ has been plunged into legal controversy following the abrupt departure of actor Akshaye Khanna from the project. Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak has formally issued a legal notice to the actor, alleging breach of contract after Khanna reportedly accepted a signing amount and committed his schedule to the film before withdrawing.

    According to Pathak’s detailed account, the conflict originated from Khanna’s insistence on growing his natural hair for the role, a demand that clashed directly with the film’s narrative continuity. ‘Drishyam 3’ begins precisely where its predecessor concluded, creating an impossible timeline for any significant physical transformation. ‘The day the old film ends, it starts at night, so how will he grow his hair in four hours?’ Pathak questioned, highlighting the logistical impossibility of the actor’s request.

    The producer revealed that despite initially agreeing to utilize a wig after discussions, Khanna ultimately reversed his decision. Pathak suggested that external influences might have contributed to this reversal, stating that ‘people around him put it in his mind that by wearing a wig, you will look very beautiful.’

    The financial implications of this departure are substantial. Pathak confirmed that sets had already been constructed at Yash Raj Studios, incurring significant production costs. The legal notice demands compensation for these expenses along with other incurred losses should Khanna fail to respond by the deadline.

    In a strategic response to this casting crisis, the production team has secured acclaimed actor Jaideep Ahlawat as Khanna’s replacement. Pathak elaborated that while Ahlawat will fulfill similar narrative functions within the plot, his character will be presented ‘in a new form’ with fresh creative dimensions. This last-minute recasting introduces an unexpected element to the sequel’s development.

    Akshaye Khanna has maintained complete silence regarding the allegations, offering no public statement or explanation for his departure from the high-profile project.

    ‘Drishyam 3’ continues its production schedule despite these setbacks, with principal photography proceeding with its stellar ensemble cast including Ajay Devgn, Shriya Saran, and Tabu. Under the direction of Abhishek Pathak, the film remains scheduled for its global theatrical release on October 2, 2026.