Entertainment
Celebrity news, music, movies, sports, and the people shaping African pop culture.
Osas Ighodaro's Bollywood Debut Is Also a Test Case for Africa's Microdrama Economy Osas Ighodaro stars in Imported Bahu, a Nollywood-Bollywood vertical microdrama premiering July 2 on LebaraPlay — and it may signal where African entertainment is headed.
By Zainab Bakare•2 days agoMovies
Celebrity News
Hollywood's Newest Elite: Akinola Davies Jr. & Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù Invited to The Academy
Akinola Davies Jr. and Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù have been invited to join the prestigious Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the organization behind the Oscars. This invitation follows the international success of their film,
Read More ( 1 min. read)→
Unpacking the Mystery: What's the Real Meaning Behind the Enigmatic Slang Term '41'?
"41" has emerged as the latest slang sensation among Gen Alpha and Gen Z, effectively replacing "6-7" as the new inside joke. Originating from Blizzi Boi's "41 Song," this term lacks a definitive meaning, serving primarily as a nonsensical interjection and a marker of shared generational identity. Its rise highlights younger generations' quest for exclusive pop culture trends.Precious Eseaye
Ini Dima-Okojie's Double Celebration: Baby Boy Arrives on Her Birthday!
Nollywood actress Ini Dima-Okojie has welcomed her first child, a baby boy, coinciding with her birthday celebration. She shared a heartfelt message reflecting on the transformative and humbling experience of motherhood, expressing deep gratitude for her new role.Precious Eseaye
Dark Origins of Bridesmaid Dresses Revealed!
Uncover the ancient origins and evolving traditions of weddings, from Mesopotamia's first recorded ceremony to Rome's influence on Western customs. Explore the fascinating history behind bridesmaids, the maid of honor's duties, and why brides and their attendants once dressed identically for protection against real and spiritual dangers.Precious Eseaye
2Baba’s “African Queen” Crowned the Greatest Afrobeats Song of All Time by Billboard
Billboard names 2Baba’s 2004 hit “African Queen” the greatest Afrobeats song of all time. Discover its history, global impact, controversies, and why it remains timeless.Owobu Maureen
Profiles
Pixar Legend Breaks Silence: 'Ratatouille 2' Not Happening, But What's The Catch?
Pixar's increasing focus on sequels, including *Toy Story 5* and *Inside Out 2*, highlights a broader trend in animation. Director Brad Bird, however, remains firm against sequels for his beloved films *Ratatouille* and *The Iron Giant*, believing their stories are complete. Conversely, Bird is open to more *The Incredibles* films, even contributing to the script for the upcoming third installment.
Read More ( 3 min. read)→
Brad Bird's 30-Year Sci-Fi Epic Finally Lands on Netflix!
Discover the making of Netflix's 'Ray Gunn' with Brad Bird. Learn about his inspiration from past animated films like Miyazaki's 'Spirited Away' and Disney's 'Pinocchio', and his unique approach to animation.Precious Eseaye
Zoey Deutch's Unexpected Path to Rom-Com Stardom Unveiled!
Zoey Deutch, known for her roles in rom-coms like <i>Set It Up</i>, discusses her latest film <i>Voicemails for Isabelle</i> and her unexpected journey to becoming a romantic-comedy queen. She shares insights into her acting philosophy, family background, and collaborations with acclaimed directors and co-stars. The article also delves into her passionate pursuit of diverse projects, including her Broadway debut.Precious Eseaye
Ken Saro-Wiwa: The Irony of a Poet Who Spoke Truth to Power and Faced the Ultimate Cost
Ken Saro-Wiwa fought Shell and Nigeria’s regime for Ogoni rights. His execution made him a global symbol of justice. Read about his powerful legacy.Owobu Maureen
Afro Trailblazers Series: Toke Makinwa
From fatal gas explosions to mastery of the air waves, this is the riveting story of Nigerian entrepreneur and public figure, Toke Makinwa.Ibukun Oluwa
Music
Country Stars Lainey Wilson & Tim McGraw Team Up for Electrifying CMA Fest Duet
Lainey Wilson achieved a full-circle moment by performing with Tim McGraw at CMA Fest, fulfilling a childhood dream as a fellow country superstar. Their standout collaboration, alongside many other top artists, will be a highlight of the upcoming CMA Fest TV special airing on ABC and Hulu.
Read More ( 2 min. read)→
Hallelujah Heard 'Round the Rally: Leonard Cohen Estate Fumes Over Trump's Anthem Use
The Leonard Cohen estate publicly objected to the unauthorized use of “Hallelujah” at a Donald Trump rally on June 24. Despite the estate's clear statement, the song was performed at the event in Washington, D.C. This incident highlights the song's enduring popularity and Cohen's past sentiments about its frequent covers.Precious Eseaye
Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce's Shocking Wedding Rule: No Gifts!
As Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding reportedly approaches, George Kittle revealed the couple's "no gifts" rule, though he plans a unique present for Kelce. The news emerged during Tight End University, where Swift also made a surprise performance with Lainey Wilson, adding to the buzz around their impending nuptials.Precious Eseaye
Japanese Star Kenshi Yonezu Soars While Michael Jackson's Legacy Ignites Biopic Craze!
Kenshi Yonezu's new track "Karasu" debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100, marking his eleventh chart-topper. The latest chart also features strong performances from Ae! group and M!LK, alongside a notable resurgence for Michael Jackson's catalog driven by his upcoming biopic.Precious Eseaye
Ozuna Shatters Records: Lands 38th No. 1 with 'Una Aventura' on Latin Airplay Chart!
Ozuna celebrates his 38th No. 1 on Billboard’s Latin Airplay chart with "Una Aventura," solidifying his position as the second artist with the most chart-toppers. This success follows a 7% increase in audience impressions and coincides with the launch of his "Una Aventura World Tour," named after the hit song.Precious Eseaye
Movies
Osas Ighodaro's Bollywood Debut Is Also a Test Case for Africa's Microdrama Economy
Osas Ighodaro stars in Imported Bahu, a Nollywood-Bollywood vertical microdrama premiering July 2 on LebaraPlay — and it may signal where African entertainment is headed.
Read More ( 4 min. read)→
ZAINAB BAKARE
Shrek Universe EXPLODES: 'Donkey' Spin-Off Confirmed, Sets 2028 Release!
The Shrek franchise is expanding with <i>Shrek 5</i> debuting in 2027 and a Donkey spin-off arriving in 2028, featuring Eddie Murphy's return. While fan reactions to <i>Shrek 5</i>'s animation have been mixed, the studio is confident in the series' future. Additionally, an interactive Lord of the Rings character quiz was also presented in the content.Precious Eseaye
Critics Hype Netflix's 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' Season 2 as a Major Leap Forward!
Netflix's Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 2 marks a significant improvement, faithfully adapting Book II: Earth. The season introduces the beloved character Toph Beifong, whose portrayal is a highlight, alongside enhanced character arcs and more natural storytelling. Despite some visual drawbacks, the narrative strides make it a worthwhile return to the Four Nations.Precious Eseaye
Millie Bobby Brown Drops Bombshell Apology to 'Stranger Things' Cast, Reveals Eleven's Fate!
Millie Bobby Brown discusses the enduring mystery of Eleven's fate in the "Stranger Things" finale, revealing a pact with the Duffer brothers to keep the truth secret. She also opens up about her post-show depression and teases upcoming projects, including a "concrete" collaboration with David Harbour.Precious Eseaye
Acclaimed Bengali Drama 'Pinjar' Soars Globally with International Deal, Championing Girls' Education!
Dr. Rudrajit Roy's Bengali feature "Pinjar," exploring themes of liberation, is set to open in Indian theaters on July 10. Hazelnut Media has acquired international rights, spearheading a global distribution strategy combined with a unique initiative to support girls' education in rural West Bengal. The critically acclaimed film, using the metaphor of a caged bird, invites audiences to reflect on the universal human desire for freedom.Precious Eseaye
Sports
FIFA Is Handing Out $871M, But The Countries That Produce the Most Talent Are Getting the Least
The World Cup prize pool has grown 32 times since 1982. But the structural conditions determining which nations collect the largest share have barely shifted. A financial and geopolitical breakdown.
Read More ( 7 min. read)→
OWOBU MAUREEN
Morocco Etches Name in World Cup History Alongside African Giants
Morocco has achieved a historic milestone in African football, becoming only the third nation from the continent to reach consecutive FIFA World Cup knockout stages. They join Nigeria and Ghana in this exclusive group, solidifying their growing stature in global football.Uche Emeka
Lakers Star Reaves Poised for Blockbuster $185M Max Contract Deal
Los Angeles Lakers star Austin Reaves has agreed to a four-year, $185 million maximum contract to remain with the team, setting a new record for an undrafted player. The deal underscores Reaves' commitment to the franchise and the Lakers' priority in retaining their homegrown talent, as he aims to continue his journey and win for the city.Uche Emeka
Celtics Shocker: Jaylen Brown Trade Talks Heat Up!
The Boston Celtics are actively involved in trade discussions for All-Star Jaylen Brown, despite team president Brad Stevens publicly asserting Brown's immense value to the organization. Brown, fresh off a career-best season and pivotal in the Celtics' 2024 NBA championship, has been the subject of rumors following an attempted trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo. Stevens has emphasized open and candid conversations with Brown amidst the trade speculation.Precious Eseaye
WNBA Firestorm: Fever Coach Rages Over 'Cheap Shots' on Caitlin Clark
Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White vehemently criticized officials for not calling "cheap shots" on Caitlin Clark during a loss to the Phoenix Mercury, leading to Clark's exit with back issues. White highlighted a pattern of inconsistent officiating for Clark, citing specific incidents and demanding greater consistency from the league's referees. The coach emphasized the need to protect her star player's health through a long season.Precious Eseaye