Eva Green has been announced as the latest addition to the cast of Netflix’s hit series ‘Wednesday’ for its highly anticipated third season. According to Deadline, Green will portray Aunt Ophelia, a mysterious and troubled member of the Addams family, who made a brief but intriguing appearance in the final moments of Season 2. This casting marks the first major update for the upcoming season, which was greenlit even before Season 2 premiered. The revelation puts an end to widespread fan speculation, including theories that Lady Gaga’s character, Rosalyn Rottwood, might be Ophelia Frump. Described as a raven-like figure akin to her niece Wednesday (Jenna Ortega), Ophelia is known for pushing her psychic abilities to extraordinary limits. Her backstory reveals that she was institutionalized at Willow Hill Psychiatric Hospital by her mother, Hester Frump (Joanna Lumley), before escaping. ‘Wednesday,’ created by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, follows the supernatural adventures of Wednesday Addams during her time at Nevermore Academy. Green’s return to the genre is notable, following her acclaimed role in Showtime’s ‘Penny Dreadful,’ which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Her upcoming projects include ‘The Trees,’ ‘Blood on Snow,’ and ‘Just Play Dead.’
分类： entertainment
-
Miss Universe President ‘fed up’ after controversies, looking to sell organisation
Raul Rocha, the president of the Miss Universe Organization, has expressed his intention to sell his 50% stake in the organization, citing exhaustion from the recent controversies surrounding the 2025 pageant. In an interview uploaded to the YouTube channel La Saga, Rocha revealed his frustration with the ongoing drama, including allegations of a rigged judging process and corruption. Despite these claims, Rocha firmly denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing his commitment to fairness and transparency. The 2025 Miss Universe pageant was marred by accusations from former judge Omar Harfouch, who publicly stated that the competition was manipulated to favor Miss Mexico, allegedly due to Rocha’s business ties with her father. The finalists included contestants from Thailand, Philippines, Venezuela, and Cote d’Ivoire. Rocha also hinted that Miss Cote d’Ivoire, a fan favorite, did not win because her visa requirements for 175 countries would hinder her ability to fulfill the global responsibilities of the Miss Universe title. This decision has sparked further debate about the criteria and integrity of the competition. As Rocha moves forward with his plans to sell his stake, the future of the Miss Universe Organization remains uncertain, leaving fans and participants questioning the legacy of this iconic pageant.
-
New Year’s Eve in Dubai: Best spots to watch Burj Khalifa fireworks for free
Dubai’s iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations at the Burj Khalifa are set to dazzle once again, offering both free and paid viewing options for visitors. While Burj Park remains the only ticketed venue at Dh997.50 per adult, numerous free public viewing zones around Downtown Dubai ensure everyone can enjoy the festivities without breaking the bank. Public areas along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard and surrounding streets will provide first-come-first-served access to the fireworks, light shows, and multi-point productions. LED screens will broadcast the event for those unable to secure a front-row spot. Gates to these free zones will close once capacity is reached, so early arrival is recommended. Road closures typically begin between 3pm and 4pm, with parking available on a first-come basis until then. The Dubai Metro and Tram will operate extended hours, while RTA shuttle buses will facilitate crowd movement. For those opting for the paid experience, Burj Park offers guaranteed front-row views, Bollywood-themed entertainment, food stalls, and kids’ workshops. Badges for Burj Park must be collected between December 26 and December 30. Families with strollers are advised to use Gate 2 for entry. Guests of EMAAR hotels and Dubai Mall restaurants will receive access badges for prime viewing areas. Prohibited items include weapons, alcohol, drones, and outside food in Burj Park. Post-midnight, roads will reopen gradually, and shuttle services will resume for badge holders. This year’s event promises to be a grand celebration of lights, music, and fireworks, blending tradition with innovation.
-
Chinese artistry dazzles at New York concert
New York’s iconic Carnegie Hall witnessed a mesmerizing display of Chinese artistry on Sunday, as three renowned musicians—pianist Li Jian, cellist Hai-Ye Ni, and violinist Lyu Siqing—took the stage for a captivating performance. The event, titled ‘The Piano Trio Concert, An Afternoon of Cultural Splendor,’ held at Zankel Hall, showcased their exceptional talent and deep musical synergy. The trio delivered masterful renditions of Beethoven’s ‘Piano Trio in B-flat major, Op 97, Archduke’ and Schubert’s ‘Piano Trio No 2 in E-flat major, D 929,’ leaving the audience in awe and eliciting multiple rounds of enthusiastic applause. Laura Nathanson, a front-row attendee, praised the performance as ‘wonderful,’ particularly highlighting the violinist’s vigor and precision. The concert was introduced by John Catsimatidis, chairman of the Red Apple Group, alongside his wife Margo, Elizabeth B. Wang of the US-China Cultural Foundation, and co-sponsor Tim Gong of The Gong Family Foundation. All emphasized the importance of cultural exchange between the United States and China, with Catsimatidis stating, ‘I believe in bringing our cultures closer together.’ The musicians, who share years of friendship, performed flawlessly, with Li’s delicate piano playing, Ni’s profound cello mastery, and Lyu’s expressive violin work creating a harmonious blend. Attendee Andrew Hall described the concert as ‘beautiful,’ noting the musicians’ unique interpretation of the pieces. The evening concluded with Catsimatidis presenting the US-China Cultural Foundation’s Global Cultural Excellence Award to the trio, cementing the event as a celebration of cross-cultural artistic collaboration.
-
Robert Irwin wins Dancing with the Stars, a decade after sister’s victory
Robert Irwin, the son of the late wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin, has emerged victorious in this year’s edition of *Dancing with the Stars*, a decade after his sister Bindi Irwin claimed the same title. The 21-year-old, despite battling a rib injury, delivered a series of stellar performances throughout the 11-week competition, culminating in a heartfelt tribute to his father and a surprise appearance by Bindi. The finale, broadcast locally on Tuesday evening, showcased Irwin’s versatility as he and his professional partner, Witney Carson, performed to tracks by Avicii, Sydney-born Sam Sparro, and Australian rock band Jet, adding a distinctly Australian flavor to the event. Irwin and Carson also excelled in the ‘instant dance challenge,’ where they were given the style and song just minutes before performing. Competing against finalists like influencer Alix Earle and Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, Irwin secured the win despite three other contestants earning perfect scores earlier in the night. Emotional after his final performance, Irwin expressed his desire to make his father proud, saying, ‘I wish he could see it, I really wish he could be here.’ Steve Irwin, known globally as the ‘Crocodile Hunter,’ tragically passed away in 2006 during a diving expedition. Following in his father’s footsteps, Robert has become a passionate wildlife photographer and an ambassador for the Earthshot Prize.
-
Canadian PM’s office and border services not ‘involved’ in Kneecap ban
The Irish language rap group Kneecap has found itself embroiled in a contentious situation involving an apparent ban from entering Canada. The controversy began in September when Canadian Liberal MP Vince Gasparro announced the ban ‘on behalf’ of the government, citing terrorism charges against one of the band members, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh. Gasparro accused the group of amplifying political violence and supporting terrorist organizations like Hezbollah and Hamas. However, the Canadian Prime Minister’s Office and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) later clarified that they were not involved in the decision to impose the ban.
-
UAE: Gaza journalist, top hostage mediator among guests at Emirates Literature Festival
The 17th edition of the Emirates Literature Festival (ELF), scheduled to take place from January 21 to 27, 2026, has announced its full lineup, promising a diverse and thought-provoking program. The festival, held at the Theater of Digital Art in Madinat Jumeirah, will feature a range of notable figures, including Gaza photojournalist Plestia Aqad and top hostage mediator Scott Walker. Aqad, author of ‘Eyes of Gaza,’ will participate in panel discussions to share her harrowing experiences documenting one of the most extensively covered conflicts in history. Walker, renowned for his expertise in crisis negotiation, will reveal strategies for diffusing high-stakes situations. The festival will also celebrate Emirati culture, with poet Shamma Al Bastaki presenting her debut collection ‘House to House,’ which chronicles Dubai’s transformation from the 1940s to the 1980s. Award-winning author Salha Obaid will mark the English translation of her novel ‘Circle of Spice,’ while children’s author Ebtisam Al-Beiti will enchant young audiences with a puppet show based on her latest book. International literary sensation RF Kuang and Emmy-winning comedian Vir Das will also grace the event, alongside a tribute to Egyptian icon Umm Kulthum. Ahlam Bolooki, CEO of the Emirates Literature Foundation, highlighted the festival’s global impact, having inspired over a million children and launched numerous initiatives.
-
UAE National Day 2025: Best celebrations, deals, and experiences across the country
As the United Arab Emirates prepares to commemorate its 54th National Day, an array of meticulously curated celebrations and exclusive offerings are emerging across the nation. The festive period promises an exceptional blend of cultural immersion, luxury experiences, and community engagements that honor Emirati heritage while creating contemporary memories.
Culinary enthusiasts can embark on an authentic Emirati food journey through Rove Hotels’ collaboration with Frying Pan Adventures. This four-hour guided tour through Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah’s coastal neighborhoods commences at Rove City Walk, featuring five distinctive tasting stations. Participants will experience traditional Emirati breakfast, engage in storytelling sessions accompanied by gahwa (Arabic coffee), karak tea, and dates, and savor seafood inspired by Dubai’s maritime legacy. Priced between Dh472.50 to Dh519.75, this gastronomic exploration welcomes guests aged 12 and above.
Palazzo Versace Dubai elevates the celebration with a themed afternoon tea experience at their Mosaico Lobby Lounge on December 2-3. The venue transforms into a cultural showcase with traditional dance performances, cake-cutting ceremonies, and specially crafted National Day confections. Patrons can indulge in desserts adorned with edible UAE flags, artisanal coffee featuring national emblems, and a festive cake trolley, all within a lavishly decorated atmosphere resonating with national pride.
Uptown Social in JLT extends the celebration with complimentary mini cakes topped with UAE flags from December 1-3. This chic establishment near prominent residential communities provides an ideal setting for festive gatherings, offering one complimentary cake per guest daily.
For those seeking luxury accommodations, Park Hyatt Dubai presents a 15% discount on rooms and suites, complemented by gourmet breakfast at Brasserie du Park and potential early check-in. The resort’s creek-side location offers a serene escape blending heritage elegance with modern comfort.
Wellness advocates can participate in SKM’D Café’s fitness-oriented initiative, where the first 54 guests completing a 5.4km run receive complimentary Bioniq Electrolyte Salt sachets. This health-conscious celebration aligns with the café’s philosophy of nourishing active lifestyles through wholesome menu offerings and beachside ambiance.
-
Anis Sajan to host sunset yoga session at private residence in Dubai
Dubai’s luxury wellness landscape is about to witness a unique event as Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group and a dedicated yoga enthusiast, gears up to host an exclusive Sunset Yoga session at his private residence in Emirates Hills. Scheduled for November 29 from 5pm onwards, the event aligns with the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), a city-wide initiative encouraging active, mindful, and health-conscious lifestyles. Set against the tranquil backdrop of Emirates Hills, the session welcomes yoga practitioners of all levels, offering a guided flow led by an experienced instructor. Attendees will also gain wellness insights from Sajan himself, coupled with breathtaking sunset views that promise to enhance the overall experience. The event aims to leave participants feeling rejuvenated, grounded, and deeply connected to both nature and themselves. This initiative underscores Dubai’s commitment to fostering a culture of wellness and mindfulness among its residents and visitors.
-
Diljit Dosanjh brings the glam to International Emmys 2025, but misses out on Best Actor award
The 53rd International Emmy Awards 2025 witnessed a glamorous presence from Indian actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh, who made his debut nomination at the prestigious event. Nominated for his compelling performance in Imtiaz Ali’s ‘Amar Singh Chamkila,’ Diljit graced the red carpet alongside the acclaimed filmmaker and other luminaries. Despite his striking appearance in a shimmery suit jacket, crisp white shirt, black bow, and signature turban, the coveted Best Actor award was claimed by Spanish actor Oriol Pla for ‘Yo, adicto [I, Addict’]. Additionally, ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’ fell short in the Best TV Movie/Mini-Series category.
Diljit’s nomination marked a significant milestone for Indian cinema on the global stage, particularly for a film that celebrated the legacy of Punjab’s legendary folk singer Amar Singh Chamkila. Directed by Imtiaz Ali, the Netflix-released movie (April 2024) features Parineeti Chopra and is lauded for its live-recorded folk music and emotionally charged narrative. The film recounts the life of Chamkila, often dubbed the ‘Elvis of Punjab,’ whose bold songs and electrifying performances in the 1980s were tragically cut short by his untimely death in 1988.
This year’s Emmys saw Diljit competing against notable actors like David Mitchell (‘Ludwig’) and Diego Vasquez (‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’). While the award eluded him, his presence underscored the growing recognition of Indian talent internationally. Notably, Netflix’s ‘Delhi Crime’ and comedian Vir Das had previously brought home Emmys in 2020 and 2021, respectively, highlighting the platform’s role in showcasing Indian stories globally.