分类: entertainment

  • Jimmy Cliff, reggae giant and star of landmark film ‘The Harder They Come,’ dead at 81

    Jimmy Cliff, reggae giant and star of landmark film ‘The Harder They Come,’ dead at 81

    Jimmy Cliff, the iconic reggae musician and actor whose soulful voice and powerful lyrics defined a generation, has died at the age of 81. His family announced his passing on Monday via his social media platforms, attributing his death to a seizure followed by pneumonia. The statement expressed gratitude to his global fanbase, emphasizing that their unwavering support had been a source of strength throughout his illustrious career. Born James Chambers in Saint James, Jamaica, Cliff rose to prominence in the 1960s as a key figure in the reggae movement, alongside legends like Bob Marley, Toots Hibbert, and Peter Tosh. His breakthrough came with the 1972 film *The Harder They Come*, in which he starred as Ivanhoe ‘Ivan’ Martin, a struggling musician turned anti-hero. The film, though initially a commercial flop, later became a cultural landmark, with its soundtrack hailed as one of the greatest in reggae history. Cliff’s music, including timeless hits like ‘Many Rivers to Cross,’ ‘You Can Get It If You Really Want,’ and ‘Vietnam,’ resonated with audiences worldwide, blending themes of resilience, defiance, and hope. His career spanned decades, earning him two Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. Beyond his musical achievements, Cliff’s influence extended to social and political spheres, with his songs adopted as anthems for movements and covered by artists like Bruce Springsteen and John Lennon. His legacy as a pioneer of reggae and a voice for the marginalized remains indelible.

  • ‘Felt embarrassed to be called good looking’: Bollywood legend Dharmendra

    ‘Felt embarrassed to be called good looking’: Bollywood legend Dharmendra

    Bollywood legend Dharmendra, often hailed as a ‘Greek God’ for his striking looks, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of timeless performances. In a poignant excerpt from a 2018 interview, the veteran actor candidly shared his feelings about being labeled as ‘good looking.’ Dharmendra expressed a sense of embarrassment over the compliment, revealing a humble and introspective side to his larger-than-life persona. ‘I felt embarrassed to be called good looking,’ he admitted, reflecting on how his appearance often overshadowed his dedication to acting. The interview offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of a star who, despite his immense popularity, remained grounded and self-aware. Dharmendra’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, as fans and colleagues mourn the loss of a true icon whose contributions to Bollywood will be remembered for generations to come.

  • Dharmendra, iconic Bollywood actor and Indian cinema’s ‘He-Man,’ dies at 89

    Dharmendra, iconic Bollywood actor and Indian cinema’s ‘He-Man,’ dies at 89

    Dharmendra, the iconic figure of Indian cinema whose versatile performances defined Bollywood in the 1970s and 1980s, passed away on Monday at the age of 89. The actor, who was just weeks away from his 90th birthday, had been frequently hospitalized in Mumbai in recent weeks. A senior police official, speaking anonymously, confirmed his death. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Dharmendra’s passing as the end of an era in Indian cinema. Modi praised the actor’s ability to bring charm and depth to his roles, resonating with countless audiences. Known as Bollywood’s ‘He-Man,’ Dharmendra masterfully blended action heroism with romantic tenderness, earning him a place among India’s most celebrated actors. His portrayal of larger-than-life, patriotic characters, alongside his charming romantic performances, endeared him to the masses. Dharmendra’s role in the 1975 classic ‘Sholay,’ often regarded as one of India’s greatest films, cemented his superstar status. His on-screen partnership with Amitabh Bachchan became legendary, as did his collaborations with actress Hema Malini, whom he later married. Despite the scandal surrounding his second marriage, Dharmendra’s career flourished, spanning over six decades and 300 films. In his later years, he transitioned to character-driven roles, often portraying paternal figures. He was last seen in the 2025 war biopic ‘Ikkis.’ Born in Punjab in 1935, Dharmendra moved to Mumbai in the late 1950s and made his Bollywood debut in 1960. His contributions to Indian cinema were recognized with the Padma Bhushan in 2012. He is survived by his wives, children, and grandchildren.

  • Bollywood’s ‘He-Man’ Dharmendra dies at 89

    Bollywood’s ‘He-Man’ Dharmendra dies at 89

    The Indian film industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures, Dharmendra, who passed away in Mumbai at the age of 89. Known for his timeless charm and versatile acting, Dharmendra’s career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on Bollywood. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the actor, stating that his death signifies the end of an era in Indian cinema. Born on December 8, 1935, in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, Dharmendra, originally named Dharam Singh Deol, hailed from a middle-class Jatt-Sikh family. Despite his father’s aspirations for him to pursue education, Dharmendra’s passion for films led him to win the All India Talent Contest by Filmfare magazine, catapulting him into the world of cinema. His debut in 1960 with ‘Dil Bhi Tera, Hum Bhi Tere’ marked the beginning of a stellar career that saw him star in over 300 films, including the cult classic ‘Sholay’ (1975), where he played the unforgettable character Veeru. Dharmendra’s on-screen chemistry with Hema Malini, whom he later married, became legendary, and their romance captivated audiences. Beyond his acting prowess, Dharmendra ventured into politics, serving as a BJP MP from 2005 to 2009, though he admitted that politics was not his true calling. Throughout his life, Dharmendra remained humble, often expressing gratitude for the love he received from fans. His contributions to Hindi cinema were recognized with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and the Padma Bhushan in 2012. Dharmendra’s legacy as the ‘original He-Man of Bollywood’ and his ability to connect with audiences through his performances will continue to inspire generations.

  • First Australian woman to win a Michelin star dies

    First Australian woman to win a Michelin star dies

    Skye Gyngell, the trailblazing Australian chef who became the first woman from her country to earn a Michelin star, has passed away at the age of 62. Gyngell, who was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer last year, died in London on Saturday. Her family described her as a ‘culinary visionary’ whose influence extended globally, inspiring chefs and growers to rethink the relationship between food and the land. Gyngell rose to prominence in the UK after her garden centre cafe in south-west London, Petersham Nurseries, was awarded a Michelin star in 2011. This achievement, however, came with challenges, as she later expressed frustration over customers expecting a traditional Michelin-starred experience at her rustic establishment. Gyngell’s career was marked by innovation and resilience. She pioneered the ‘slow food movement’ in the 1980s and went on to become a private chef for high-profile clients, including Nigella Lawson, Madonna, and Guy Ritchie. Her later ventures included Spring at Somerset House, London’s first single-use plastic-free restaurant. Beyond her culinary achievements, Gyngell was known for her award-winning cookbooks and her role as a food editor for Vogue. She also overcame personal struggles, including drug and alcohol addiction in her younger years. Last year, she was diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare skin cancer, and underwent surgery that temporarily affected her sense of smell and taste. Tributes poured in from the culinary world, with Jamie Oliver praising her for inspiring young cooks and Nigella Lawson expressing her grief on Instagram. Gyngell’s legacy as a pioneer in the culinary arts and her commitment to sustainable and thoughtful food practices will continue to resonate for years to come.

  • Donald Glover reveals on stage he had a stroke last year

    Donald Glover reveals on stage he had a stroke last year

    In a heartfelt revelation during his performance at Tyler, the Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw festival in Los Angeles, multi-talented artist Donald Glover, known by his stage name Childish Gambino, disclosed that he suffered a stroke last year. The 42-year-old actor and rapper shared the harrowing experience with the audience, explaining that the stroke occurred shortly after he began his New World tour in August 2024. Glover recounted feeling severe head pain during a show in Louisiana, which he initially ignored. However, after experiencing vision problems in Houston, he sought medical attention and was diagnosed with a stroke. The health scare forced him to postpone and eventually cancel the remainder of his tour. Glover also revealed that doctors discovered a hole in his heart, necessitating two surgeries. During his emotional on-stage confession, Glover reflected on the fragility of life, stating, ‘They say everybody has two lives, and the second life starts when you realize you have one.’ He expressed gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of health and resilience. Glover’s candid disclosure has sparked widespread concern and admiration, highlighting the challenges faced by performers in balancing their careers and well-being.

  • Indian billionaire Netra Mantena’s wedding: From JLo to Trump Jr, guest list revealed

    Indian billionaire Netra Mantena’s wedding: From JLo to Trump Jr, guest list revealed

    The city of Udaipur has been transformed into a hub of glitz and glamour as the wedding festivities of Indian billionaire Netra Mantena and AI entrepreneur Vamsi Gadiraju unfolded over the past few days. The event, a grand celebration of love and opulence, attracted a constellation of celebrities from across the globe, including global music icon Jennifer Lopez, Bollywood heavyweights like Karan Johar, Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Kriti Sanon, and Sophie Choudry, and even international figures such as Donald Trump Jr. and his girlfriend, Bettina Anderson. Jennifer Lopez, who arrived in Udaipur on Saturday, was greeted by the Indian paparazzi, with her warm interactions captured and widely shared on social media. The wedding, a blend of traditional Indian customs and modern extravagance, featured electrifying performances, with Ranveer Singh stealing the show. The Bollywood star delivered a high-energy rap of ‘Apna Time Ayega’ from the film ‘Gully Boy’ and even managed to get Trump Jr. and Anderson to groove to his hit track ‘What Jhumka’ from ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.’ Netra Mantena, the daughter of Orlando-based billionaires Padmaja and Rama Raju Mantena, and Vamsi Gadiraju, co-founder of AI company Superorder, tied the knot in a ceremony that has set social media abuzz with clips and images of the lavish celebrations. The event not only highlighted the couple’s prominence but also underscored Udaipur’s status as a preferred destination for high-profile weddings.

  • Smriti Mandhana’s wedding with Palash Muchhal postponed after cricketer’s father unwell

    Smriti Mandhana’s wedding with Palash Muchhal postponed after cricketer’s father unwell

    The much-anticipated wedding of Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana and Bollywood music composer Palash Muchhal has been indefinitely postponed following the sudden illness of Mandhana’s father. Srinivas Mandhana, the cricketer’s father, was rushed to a private hospital in Sangli, Maharashtra, on November 23, 2025, after feeling unwell during breakfast. Tuhin Mishra, Mandhana’s business manager, confirmed the news, stating that the family decided to prioritize Srinivas’s health over the wedding festivities. ‘Smriti is very close to her father. She has decided that the marriage will not proceed until he recovers,’ Mishra told reporters. The wedding, originally scheduled for November 23, was called off as Srinivas remains under medical observation. Earlier, glimpses of the pre-wedding celebrations, including the sangeet night, had gone viral on social media, showcasing the couple’s joyous moments with friends and family. The cricketing community and fans have expressed their support for Mandhana during this challenging time. It is unclear when the wedding will be rescheduled.

  • Bestselling author and life coach explores speculative fiction and human connection

    Bestselling author and life coach explores speculative fiction and human connection

    Sandeep Adnani, a Dubai-based author, mental health counsellor, and life coach, has carved a unique niche in the literary world by merging cosmic imagination with profound emotional depth. His works, including the acclaimed Exiled Rogue Trilogy and the heartwarming Strangers in Space, explore themes of purpose, consciousness, and the bonds that define humanity. Adnani’s writing journey began with the Exiled Rogue Trilogy, a six-year project that delves into metaphysical questions and the interconnected fate of beings across multiple realms. The trilogy, praised for its fusion of time travel, cosmic laws, and self-evolution, established Adnani as a distinctive voice in speculative fiction. His latest work, Strangers in Space, marks a shift towards cosy sci-fi, focusing on emotional journeys and intimate character connections. Adnani’s creative process is deeply influenced by his background in counselling, which he says helps him craft authentic, vulnerable characters. Drawing inspiration from travel, family, and authors like Dan Brown and J.K. Rowling, Adnani continues to explore diverse storytelling avenues, promising readers fresh adventures that blend imagination with introspection.

  • World Television Day celebrated with conference in Shanxi

    World Television Day celebrated with conference in Shanxi

    The 2025 ‘World Television Day’ China Television Conference commenced on November 21 in Datong, Shanxi province, marking a significant gathering of industry experts and scholars. The event, held in the historic city of Datong, focused on the evolving landscape of television and online audiovisual art amidst the deepening integration of media technologies. Yan Shaofei, vice-chairman of the China Television Artists Association, emphasized the transformative era of audiovisual art, urging creators to harness technological advancements to produce high-quality, life-inspired content. Jiang Wenbo, chairman of the Ultra-High Definition World Association, highlighted television’s pivotal role in global cultural exchange and societal development, advocating for the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to foster an omnimedia ultra-high definition television ecosystem. Liu Junyi, Datong’s deputy Party secretary and mayor, envisioned the conference as a catalyst for artistic and technological integration, showcasing the city’s unique blend of ancient heritage and modern industry. The event also featured discussions on the acclaimed TV series ‘Silent Honor,’ with director Yang Yazhou stressing the importance of aligning creative efforts with the genuine needs of the audience. A strategic cooperation agreement between Datong Municipal People’s Government and Communication University of Shanxi was signed, aiming to enhance micro audiovisual content creation and talent development, setting a benchmark for university-government collaboration in the region.