Marc Maron, Shane Gillis, Zach Woods denounce Saudi comedy festival with A-list lineup

The Riyadh Comedy Festival is facing backlash as prominent U.S. comedians like Marc Maron and Shane Gillis criticize the event, highlighting concerns over Saudi Arabia's human rights record. With the festival coinciding with the seventh anniversary of journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder, Human Rights Watch has urged artists to address these serious issues. This controversy underscores the ongoing debate about the intersection of entertainment and ethics, prompting discussions on whether artists should engage with countries with troubling human rights histories.

As the Riyadh Comedy Festival gears up for its debut, prominent comedians like Marc Maron are voicing strong criticism. Maron and others have called out their peers for participating in an event linked to a country with a controversial history, jokingly referencing Saudi officials' involvement in 9/11. This backlash highlights the ongoing debate about the ethics of performing in nations with questionable human rights records, making it a significant moment in the comedy world.

Tilly Ramsay, in her new Prime Video cooking show 'Dish It Out', shares valuable cooking advice from her father, Gordon Ramsay. The show not only highlights viral food trends but also celebrates family recipes, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. This matters because it showcases the importance of family traditions in cooking while also appealing to a younger audience interested in culinary trends.

In a recent episode of Eugene Levy's travel show, Prince William opened up about the challenges he faced over the past year, describing it as one of the hardest times in his life. This candid discussion highlights the importance of mental health awareness, especially among public figures, and encourages others to share their struggles.

Eliza Dushku's absence from the 25-year reunion of 'Bring It On' on September 21 has sparked conversations among fans and former co-stars, who continue to support her in her new career endeavors. While she missed the nostalgic gathering with fellow cast members like Kirsten Dunst and Gabrielle Union, the positive sentiment from her peers highlights the lasting bonds formed during the film's production. This reunion not only celebrates the film's legacy but also underscores the importance of friendship and support in the entertainment industry.

Hollywood's fascination with book adaptations is growing, with production companies like Temple Hill and Alloy Entertainment leading the charge. These adaptations come with a built-in audience, significantly increasing their chances of success. With popular franchises like The Hunger Games and Harry Potter setting the stage, the trend not only promises to bring beloved stories to life but also offers fans new content to enjoy. This shift in focus towards established intellectual properties is a smart move for studios looking to capitalize on existing fanbases.

Jake Knapp, a PGA Tour golfer, is mourning the tragic loss of his girlfriend, Makena White, who passed away at the young age of 28. The news was shared through a heartfelt statement on her Instagram account, leaving fans and friends in shock. This loss is significant not only for Knapp personally but also for the golfing community, as White was known to be one of his biggest supporters. Her untimely death highlights the fragility of life and the impact of personal loss on public figures.

Paul Thomas Anderson's latest film, 'One Battle After Another,' is set to achieve a remarkable opening weekend at the domestic box office, projected to earn between $8.5 million and $9 million on Friday alone, leading to an estimated total of $21 million across 3,635 theaters. This strong performance not only highlights Anderson's continued success in the industry but also reflects the growing interest in cinematic releases, making it a significant event for both fans and the box office landscape.