Global Pulse

分类： entertainment

  • Eurovision announces it won’t censor boos against Israel amid boycott calls

    Eurovision announces it won’t censor boos against Israel amid boycott calls

    Austrian public broadcaster ORF, host of the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, has declared it will not censor audience booing directed at Israel’s performance, breaking from previous contest practices. The announcement comes as the popular music spectacle faces unprecedented controversy over Israel’s participation amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

    Stefanie Groiss-Horowitz, ORF’s programming director, stated unequivocally that the broadcaster would not employ artificial applause to mask audience disapproval. “We won’t play artificial applause over it at any point,” she confirmed on Tuesday, referencing the controversy that surrounded Israel’s semi-final performance in the 2024 competition.

    The ORF further clarified that all official flags complying with security parameters would be permitted in the audience, widely interpreted as allowing Palestinian flags—a reversal from the 2024 policy that sparked significant backlash when Palestinian symbols were prohibited.

    The contest faces its most severe crisis in its 70-year history, with five European nations—Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, Netherlands, and Iceland—already announcing boycotts of the 2026 event. Ireland’s national broadcaster RTE called Israel’s participation “unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis.”

    Executive producer Michael Kroen acknowledged the challenges, stating organizers aim not to “sugarcoat anything or avoid showing what is happening, because our task is to show things as they are.”

    The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) faces accusations of hypocrisy for its differing treatment of Russia and Israel. Russia was banned from the contest following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, while Israel continues to participate despite mounting international condemnation.

    Nemo, winner of Eurovision 2024, returned their trophy in protest last week, stating: “The contest was repeatedly used to soften the image of a state accused of severe wrongdoing, all while the EBU insisted Eurovision is ‘non-political’.”

    In response to voting manipulation concerns from the 2024 competition, where Israel unexpectedly topped the public vote, organizers have implemented new measures to “discourage disproportionate promotion campaigns” by third parties, including governments.

    The 2026 contest will feature only 35 participants, the lowest number since 2003, reflecting the growing diplomatic tensions surrounding the event.

  • The Oscars to leave ABC and stream on YouTube starting in 2029

    The Oscars to leave ABC and stream on YouTube starting in 2029

    In a landmark shift for Hollywood’s entertainment landscape, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced a revolutionary broadcasting partnership. Beginning in 2029, the prestigious Academy Awards ceremony will transition from traditional network television to exclusive global streaming on YouTube under a multi-year agreement extending through 2033.

    The historic decision, unveiled Wednesday, concludes the Oscars’ half-century broadcast relationship with ABC. The 2029 ceremony, scheduled for March 15, will mark the inaugural YouTube-exclusive event, offering worldwide viewers free live access without subscription barriers.

    Academy leadership framed the move as a strategic expansion of their global reach. “The Academy is an international organization, and this partnership will allow us to expand access to the work of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible,” stated CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor in a joint announcement. They emphasized the benefits for both Academy members and the broader film community.

    This seismic shift occurs amid industry-wide challenges including declining award show ratings, studio consolidations, and production cutbacks. The 2025 Oscars continued a concerning trend of viewership erosion that has similarly affected the Golden Globes and Grammy Awards.

    YouTube CEO Neal Mohan celebrated the partnership, characterizing the Oscars as “one of our essential cultural institutions” and promising to “inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars’ storied legacy.”

    ABC acknowledged the transition gracefully, expressing anticipation for “the next three telecasts” remaining under their broadcast stewardship before the YouTube era begins.

  • Till Lindemann to perform in Dubai on January 4, marking his 63rd birthday

    Till Lindemann to perform in Dubai on January 4, marking his 63rd birthday

    German industrial metal icon Till Lindemann, renowned frontman of Rammstein, is set to deliver a powerful solo performance at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena on January 4, 2026. This highly anticipated event coincides with the artist’s 63rd birthday, making it a landmark celebration within his extensive Meine Welt Tour 2026 itinerary. The Dubai show stands as the tour’s exclusive Middle Eastern stop, marking his return to the city since his previous performance during the COVID-19 pandemic when health restrictions significantly constrained live events.

    Event organizers have confirmed the concert will feature Lindemann’s complete solo production, renowned for its dramatic theatricality and often controversial visual spectacles. This birthday performance is integrated into a massive global tour encompassing over 40 dates across Europe, Asia, and Australia, with scheduling specifically arranged to facilitate this celebratory event in Dubai.

    Beyond his monumental success with Rammstein, which has sold over 25 million albums globally, Lindemann has cultivated a significant solo career and is an established published poet. His recent creative endeavors include promoting his new photography book, ‘Der Rhein,’ and the re-release of his 2025 solo album ‘Zunge.’ This special edition features additional tracks such as ‘Meine Welt’ and ‘Prostitution,’ the latter’s music video—filmed within a Moldovan psychiatric hospital—has garnered substantial international attention for its provocative and stark imagery.

    The concert, organized by TicketOffice, will implement an age restriction, permitting entry only to attendees aged 18 and above.

  • Cheating charge added against Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra in Rs600 million case

    Cheating charge added against Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra in Rs600 million case

    In a significant development to an ongoing financial investigation, Mumbai’s Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has formally added cheating charges against Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty and her entrepreneur husband Raj Kundra. The enhanced charges stem from an alleged ₹600 million (approximately $7.2 million) fraud case that has been under investigation since August.

    The case originated from a complaint filed by Mumbai-based businessman Deepak Kothari, who alleges he was systematically deceived in a complex loan-investment arrangement with the high-profile couple. According to legal representatives for Kothari, recent investigative findings provided sufficient evidence to warrant the additional cheating charge, potentially expanding the scope of the criminal probe.

    Financial records indicate the alleged misconduct centers around Best Deal TV Private Limited, a now-defunct home shopping and online retail platform where both Shetty and Kundra held director positions. The initial First Information Report (FIR) claimed that between 2015 and 2023, the couple persuaded Kothari to invest substantial sums totaling ₹600 million with promises of legitimate business returns.

    Kothari’s legal team has announced plans to approach India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) to initiate proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). This would enable authorities to trace, identify, and potentially seize assets believed to represent proceeds from the alleged financial crimes.

    In previous statements, Kundra has defended the financial transactions, claiming significant portions of the funds were allocated as professional fees to other Bollywood personalities including actors Bipasha Basu and Neha Dhupia. He has additionally attributed the company’s financial difficulties to India’s 2016 demonetization policy, which he claims severely impacted Best Deal TV’s operations dealing in electrical and household appliances.

    The Economic Offences Wing continues to examine financial documentation and transaction records as the investigation progresses. Neither Shetty nor Kundra have issued public statements following the latest development in the case.

  • ‘Sinners’, ‘Wicked’ lead as strong contenders in Academy Awards shortlist

    ‘Sinners’, ‘Wicked’ lead as strong contenders in Academy Awards shortlist

    The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially unveiled its highly anticipated shortlists across 12 competitive categories, setting the stage for the 98th Academy Awards ceremony scheduled for March 15, 2026. This preliminary selection offers the first significant indication of which films and artists might secure nominations when the full list is announced on January 22, 2026.

    Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’ has emerged as a formidable frontrunner, achieving recognition across an impressive seven categories. The film garnered attention for its technical and artistic excellence in Makeup and Hairstyling, Cinematography, Casting, Sound, and Visual Effects. Notably, it also received a double showing in the competitive Original Song category.

    Matching this strong performance, ‘Wicked: For Good’ demonstrated its awards potential with shortlist placements in Cinematography, Makeup and Hairstyling, Casting, Original Score, Sound, and Visual Effects. The adaptation also earned two Original Song nominations for compositions by renowned songwriter Stephen Schwartz.

    Netflix’s ‘Frankenstein’ also delivered a commendable showing, securing spots in six technical categories including Casting, Cinematography, Makeup and Hairstyling, Original Score, Sound, and Visual Effects.

    The shortlisted categories encompass Animated Short Film, Casting, Cinematography, Documentary Feature Film, Documentary Short Film, International Feature Film, Live Action Short Film, Makeup and Hairstyling, Music (Original Score), Music (Original Song), Sound, and Visual Effects.

    The Visual Effects category features particularly strong competition with major studio productions including ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’, ‘FI’, ‘Frankenstein’, ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’, ‘Sinners’, ‘Superman’, and ‘Wicked: For Good’ all advancing to this preliminary stage.

    The International Feature Film category, traditionally one of the most watched, includes 15 films that will progress to the next round of voting. The full Oscar ceremony will honor achievements across 24 categories at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood.

  • ‘Stranger Things’ to end with an all-out battle against Vecna

    ‘Stranger Things’ to end with an all-out battle against Vecna

    Netflix has unveiled the climactic trailer for Stranger Things Season 5 Volume 2, confirming the science fiction phenomenon will conclude with an apocalyptic confrontation between Hawkins’ residents and the malevolent entity Vecna. The final installment, comprising three episodes, premieres December 25th with the series finale scheduled for New Year’s Eve release.

    The entire original ensemble cast returns for this ultimate chapter, including Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Gaten Matarazzo, Caleb McLaughlin, Noah Schnapp, and Winona Ryder. They are joined by newcomers Linda Hamilton (Terminator franchise), Nell Fisher, Alex Breaux, and Jake Connelly, expanding the narrative scope for the grand finale.

    The newly released trailer previews the endgame conflict between the Hawkins collective and Vecna’s transdimensional army of Demogorgons. Narrative threads established in Volume 1 converge as Vecna emerges unscathed from military assaults while having abducted Holly Wheeler. Simultaneously, Max Mayfield miraculously resurfaces from her Season 4 coma, finding herself and Holly trapped within Vecna’s psychological landscape.

    Critical developments include Will Byers embracing his latent psychic abilities to command the Demogorgon horde, potentially turning the tide against the encroaching darkness. Meanwhile, the military containment of the Upside Down rift continues to deteriorate as creatures breach into reality, attacking civilians and infrastructure alike.

    The series conclusion promises to resolve decade-long character arcs while delivering the franchise’s most extensive visual effects sequences to date, positioning the showdown as both emotional payoff and spectacle-driven narrative climax.

  • Magic Awaits: Step Into Wafi City’s Whimsical Wonderland

    Magic Awaits: Step Into Wafi City’s Whimsical Wonderland

    Dubai’s Wafi City has undergone a spectacular metamorphosis into a magical holiday destination, unveiling its ‘Whimsical Wonderland’ experience that promises to captivate visitors throughout the festive season. The comprehensive transformation encompasses both Wafi City Mall and the architecturally stunning Khan Murjan Souk, creating an immersive environment brimming with seasonal enchantment.

    The venue now features an array of whimsical installations and dazzling light displays that establish an atmosphere of creative discovery and joyful celebration. Young visitors can engage in interactive craft stations and hands-on activities designed to stimulate imagination, while adults appreciate seasonal culinary offerings and unique marketplace finds. Throughout the complex, countless photo opportunities await amidst the elaborate festive décor.

    Entertainment forms a core component of the experience, with costumed characters bringing stories to life and performers filling the air with holiday melodies. Families can participate in treasure hunts through Khan Murjan Souk’s atmospheric corridors and explore specially designed play zones that encourage curiosity and creativity.

    The centerpiece remains the ticketed Santa Experience, operating until December 24, 2025, where children can share holiday wishes in a beautifully themed grotto. This encounter includes a special gift, framed keepsake photograph, and complimentary festive beverage. Ticket pricing is set at AED 85 for general visitors, with discounted rates of AED 70 for pre-registered guests and Wafi Rewards members, while People of Determination enjoy complimentary access.

    All mall visitors can participate in free activities including open workshops, interactive zones, and encounters with roaming entertainers. Those purchasing the festive coupon booklet gain automatic entry into the Whimsical Wonderland Raffle Draw, offering two winners AED 10,000 each in gift vouchers during the December 31 drawing.

    The comprehensive programming ensures that whether visitors seek a brief seasonal stroll or full-day immersion, Wafi City delivers memorable moments that capture the essential spirit of holiday magic and togetherness.

  • Chinese legend White Snake reimagined through experimental theater in New York

    Chinese legend White Snake reimagined through experimental theater in New York

    NEW YORK—The ancient Chinese folktale of The Legend of the White Snake has undergone a transformative reinterpretation through experimental theater, captivating audiences at New York’s HERE Arts Center from December 14-16, 2025. The production titled ‘Qing Bai: Innocence’ represents a groundbreaking fusion of Eastern mythology and Western avant-garde performance techniques, created by a collaborative team of emerging Chinese theater artists.

    This innovative staging employed movement, sound, and physical gesture within an experimental framework to explore universal emotional themes transcending cultural boundaries. The creative team deliberately moved beyond conventional narrative structures, implementing an ‘ensemble approach’ that granted four central characters equal narrative weight and complete story arcs.

    Lead performer and co-playwright Ophelia He, who portrays the serpent spirit Bai Suzhen while simultaneously playing traditional pipa instrumentation, described the New York presentation as profoundly significant. ‘I feel honored to bring this beautiful piece of traditional Chinese culture to New York theaters,’ He stated, emphasizing the production’s accessibility despite cultural differences. ‘Even without prior knowledge of Chinese tradition or language, audiences can feel the emotional struggles and identities through performance and physical expression.’

    Director and co-playwright Tara Nyingje explained the production’s experimental nature: ‘I’m especially drawn to exploring how familiar stories can be reimagined through different forms of expression. This tale can be interpreted in numerous ways and understood from multiple perspectives.’

    The production faced unique linguistic challenges, performing primarily in Mandarin while projecting English surtitles rendered in deliberately archaic language to match the historical tone of the original dialogue. This approach, while potentially ‘awkward’ to modern ears, intentionally blended contemporary and ancient storytelling elements.

    The creative process, which began in September, formed part of a broader East Coast tour including performances at Brown and Yale Universities. For the artists involved, the project represents both cultural exploration and personal discovery, with He noting that her Western academic experience intensified her desire to investigate her Chinese cultural heritage. ‘This makes me look back and explore the underlying core of my own culture,’ she reflected.

    The team views their work as continuing the folktale’s evolutionary tradition—a story that has transformed across Chinese dynasties through retellings and adaptations. As Nyingje concluded, ‘Performance methods are primarily tools. The ongoing interest always lies in integrating Chinese cultural elements into experimental theater and testing how they could be combined.’

  • Kenyan digital creators find inspiration in China

    Kenyan digital creators find inspiration in China

    A delegation of Kenya’s foremost digital influencers returned from an eye-opening journey through China’s Hunan and Fujian provinces, reporting a profound transformation in their perception of the Asian nation’s cultural and technological landscape. The weeklong cultural tour, undertaken in September, featured four prominent Kenyan celebrities whose digital content has since sparked widespread reevaluation of China among African audiences.

    Lawrence Mwangi Macharia, professionally known as Terence Creative, described being captivated by a multisensory theatrical performance in Hunan that demonstrated ‘unbelievable precision’ in blending traditional artistry with cutting-edge technology. ‘How they sync the music, the art, the props—it was pure magic,’ the comedian and content creator remarked, highlighting the sophisticated integration of digital projections, lighting, and choreography.

    The delegation’s experiences extended beyond performance venues to everyday Chinese life. Comedian Jasper Muthomi (MC Jessy) recounted participating in communal stretching sessions on local streets, noting how such practices reflected China’s emphasis on wellness and community balance. Media personality Betty Kyallo experienced the breathtaking Grand Canyon Glass Bridge in Zhangjiajie and explored traditional Chinese medicine in Xiamen, where she observed holistic treatments for chronic conditions.

    David Oyando (Mulamwah) reported his technological assumptions being fundamentally challenged during a visit to a Fujian technology store. ‘The cameras, microphones, phones—they were world-class and affordable,’ he stated, adding that the experience disproved ‘the counterfeit narrative about China.’

    The influencers’ social media posts from their journey have generated millions of views and enthusiastic engagement from Kenyan followers. Comments ranged from expressions of desire to visit China (‘I need to come here’) to appreciation for the virtual tour experience. Many noted how the content reshaped their understanding of China’s innovative capacity and cultural richness.

    A consistent theme emerged from all four creators: China represents a unique fusion of futuristic advancement and deeply rooted traditions. The visit provided insights into innovation, community wellness, and artistic expression that transcended their expectations. As Terence Creative concluded, ‘China is an eye-opener. You can’t finish exploring it in a year. Everyone should see it for themselves.’

  • ‘Jassi Weds Jassi’ premieres in Dubai to a packed house

    ‘Jassi Weds Jassi’ premieres in Dubai to a packed house

    Dubai’s Grand Cineplex at Grand Hyatt witnessed an enthusiastic reception for the international premiere of ‘Jassi Weds Jassi’ on December 11, 2025. The romantic comedy attracted a diverse audience that mirrored the city’s cosmopolitan character, with strong attendance from Indian, Pakistani, and Arab communities creating a vibrant celebratory atmosphere.

    Directed by Paran Bawa and produced through Divinity Studios by Soma Singh Deo and Mazahir Abbas, the film transports viewers to 1996 Haldwani (now in Uttarakhand) for a nostalgic romantic journey. The production features Harshvardhan Deo in the titular role alongside an accomplished ensemble cast including Ranvir Shorey, Sikandar Kher, Sudesh Lahiri, Grusha Kapoor, Manu Rishi Chaddha, and Rehmat Rattan.

    The narrative centers on Jaspreet (Jassi), an incurable romantic who firmly believes in destined love. His world undergoes delightful chaos when he develops feelings for Jasmeet (Rehmat Rattan), only to encounter an unexpected romantic rival named Jaswinder (Sikandar Kher), who also goes by Jassi. This coincidence sets in motion a chain of comedic misunderstandings, heartfelt emotions, and romantic entanglements, all infused with authentic Punjabi cultural elements.

    Director Paran Bawa characterized the film as ‘pure madness in the best way possible,’ emphasizing its celebration of love, emotional depth, and energetic chaos. Producer Mazahir Abbas stated their objective was to deliver a wholesome, family-oriented cinematic experience designed to maintain audience engagement and smiles throughout. Lead actor Harshvardhan Deo described his portrayal of Jassi as particularly enjoyable, noting the character’s endearing qualities as an innocent dreamer motivated by love, playful mischief, and natural charm.

    The film has commenced theatrical screenings across UAE cinemas, offering audiences a lighthearted escape into romantic comedy grounded in cultural specificity and universal emotions.