Meta’s Q3 Pummeled By $16 Billion, One-Time Tax Charge

Meta's third-quarter earnings report revealed a remarkable 26% increase in revenue, reaching $51.2 billion, a new record for the company. However, this achievement was overshadowed by a staggering nearly $16 billion tax charge linked to President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This tax burden significantly impacted Meta's overall financial performance, raising concerns about the implications of such legislation on major corporations and their ability to thrive in a challenging economic landscape.

YouTube has achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing $10 billion in ad revenue for the first time in a single quarter, contributing significantly to Alphabet's overall success. This impressive performance not only exceeded Wall Street's expectations but also marked a historic moment for the company, as it crossed the $100 billion revenue threshold in a quarter. This growth reflects the increasing importance of digital advertising and YouTube's pivotal role in Alphabet's financial health.

YouTube has reported a remarkable 15% increase in ad sales for the third quarter of 2025, reaching over $10.2 billion. This growth not only surpasses analyst expectations but also highlights YouTube's strength as a leading advertising platform. The success of YouTube contributes significantly to its parent company, Alphabet, which has achieved its first quarter with over $100 billion in revenue. This news is important as it underscores the resilience and profitability of digital advertising, especially in a competitive market.

At Variety's Power of Women 2025 event, stars like Sydney Sweeney, Kate Hudson, and Nicole Scherzinger graced the red carpet, sharing their excitement and gratitude for being honored. Scherzinger expressed her humility, saying she was taken aback by the recognition. This event not only celebrates the achievements of these talented women but also highlights the importance of empowering women in the entertainment industry, making it a significant occasion for both the attendees and their fans.

Underscore Talent is making significant moves by promoting Nadi Filsoof to partner and bringing on Zack Evans, a former BuzzFeed content producer, for their new digital production venture. This is exciting news as Filsoof, who has been a talent manager, will now oversee a diverse roster of creators, enhancing the agency's influence in the entertainment industry. The addition of Evans is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to their projects, which could lead to more engaging content for audiences.

Casey Means, nominated by Trump for the position of Surgeon General, is gaining popularity thanks to her wellness platform. This nomination is significant as it highlights the increasing focus on health and wellness in public policy, reflecting a shift towards prioritizing preventive care and holistic health approaches.

This week, PJ Washington surprised his wife Alisah Chanel with a lavish celebration for their wedding anniversary, showcasing his love and thoughtfulness. The event not only highlights their relationship but also serves as a reminder of the importance of celebrating milestones in a marriage. Such gestures can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories, making it a heartwarming story for fans and followers.

In her latest selection, Caroline Sutton highlights five remarkable books that explore the profound connections between humans and nature. These titles not only offer captivating narratives but also inspire readers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world. This matters because fostering a deeper understanding of our environment can lead to greater conservation efforts and a more sustainable future.

Colin Farrell recently shared a humorous yet troubling story about his time on the set of 'Minority Report,' revealing that he was so intoxicated during filming that he required 46 takes to deliver a single line. This incident reportedly frustrated co-star Tom Cruise, highlighting the challenges of maintaining professionalism in the film industry. Farrell's candidness about his struggles serves as a reminder of the pressures actors face and the importance of accountability on set.