Oscars: Saudi Arabia Selects ‘Hijra’ As 2026 Best International Feature Film Entry

Whitney Cummings has come to the defense of performers at the Riyadh Comedy Festival, addressing the backlash they faced. On her podcast, she labeled the criticism as 'just racism,' suggesting that the negative reactions stem from prejudice rather than genuine concern. This discussion is significant as it highlights the complexities of cultural exchange and the challenges artists face when performing in different countries, especially those with controversial reputations.

Whitney Cummings has stepped up to defend the Riyadh Comedy Festival amid criticism from the comedy community. On her podcast, she described the backlash as 'racism' and pointed out that many comedians have accepted money from Live Nation, which has ties to Saudi Arabia. This discussion highlights the complexities of performing in countries with controversial governments and raises questions about the ethics of comedy in a globalized world.

Arena SNK Studios, backed by Saudi Arabia, has officially launched with Erik Feig, a former Lionsgate executive, as its CEO. This new venture aims to create franchises inspired by video games and anime, tapping into passionate fandom communities. With strong connections to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the studio's ambitious plans could significantly impact the entertainment landscape, blending traditional media with interactive experiences.

Keanu Reeves recently expressed his admiration for Diane Keaton, highlighting the profound impact she has had on him as a co-star in their 2003 film, 'Something's Gotta Give.' Reeves shared how witnessing Keaton's talent and charisma on screen left a lasting impression on him. This reflection not only celebrates their collaboration but also underscores the importance of mentorship and inspiration in the film industry, reminding us of the powerful connections forged through shared artistic endeavors.

Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, a two-time Academy Award winner, has joined as executive producer for the short film 'Don't Be Late, Myra,' directed by Afia Nathaniel. This collaboration is significant as the film has already qualified for the Oscars after a successful festival run, highlighting the importance of Pakistani narratives in cinema. Obaid-Chinoy's involvement is expected to elevate the film's visibility as it competes for recognition at the 98th Academy Awards.

Laurie Metcalf, a seasoned actress with a rich career in comedy and drama, recently shared her excitement about joining the cast of 'Monster: The Ed Gein Story' without even seeing a script. This bold move highlights her trust in the project and its potential. Metcalf also expressed a long-held desire to perform in a musical, though she humorously noted her limited vocal range. Her journey reflects the passion and dedication of an artist who continues to seek new challenges, making her an inspiring figure in the entertainment industry.

Banijay Entertainment is making waves by launching a professional soccer team in the Netherlands, named FC Failliet/Finesse (FCF), in collaboration with popular social media creators like Ilias Vietto, Aimane Charbon, and Kleine John. This initiative not only diversifies Banijay's portfolio but also brings a fresh approach to sports entertainment, merging traditional soccer with the influence of digital creators. It's an exciting development for fans and a unique opportunity for the creators to engage with their audience in a new way.

T.J. Holmes and Amy Robach are officially engaged, marking a joyful milestone in their relationship three years after their public drama on GMA3. This news is significant as it highlights their resilience and commitment to each other, turning a challenging chapter into a beautiful new beginning. Fans of the couple are celebrating this positive development, showing that love can flourish even after adversity.

The Motion Picture Association (MPA) has expressed concern over Meta's Instagram implementing a content-blocking feature for teens based on its PG-13 ratings without prior consultation. This move raises questions about the collaboration between tech companies and industry standards, highlighting the importance of communication in protecting young users while navigating content moderation.

In a recent press event, President Donald Trump declined to answer a question from an ABC correspondent, criticizing the network for a contentious interview conducted by George Stephanopoulos with JD Vance. This incident highlights ongoing tensions between Trump and major media outlets, raising questions about transparency and press relations during his presidency. Such confrontations can impact public perception and trust in the media.

Hollywood script readers are expressing concerns about being replaced by AI, prompting them to conduct a test to evaluate who provides better feedback on scripts. This initiative highlights the ongoing debate about the role of technology in creative industries and the potential impact on jobs. As AI continues to evolve, understanding its capabilities and limitations in areas like script evaluation is crucial for industry professionals.