‘Great range and power’: TS Eliot poetry prize shortlist announced

Lenny Henry, the renowned comedian, is advocating for reparations for black British people through his new book, which argues that the UK should pay £18 trillion in compensatory payments. This call for reparations is significant as it highlights the ongoing discussions about racial justice and historical injustices faced by the black community in Britain. By bringing this issue to the forefront, Henry aims to spark a broader conversation about equality and the need for acknowledgment and restitution.

Ireland is making a significant move to boost its film industry by increasing the tax credit for visual effects work to 40% as part of its budget for 2026. This enhancement is designed to attract more film projects to the country, encouraging investment in the local economy and creating jobs in the creative sector. By extending the digital games incentive as well, Ireland is positioning itself as a competitive hub for both film and gaming industries, which is exciting news for creators and investors alike.

Yash Raj Films is making a significant return to the U.K. with a new three-picture deal that is set to create around 3,000 jobs. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced this exciting news during his visit to Yash Raj Studios in Mumbai. This move not only strengthens the cultural ties between India and the U.K. but also boosts the local economy through job creation and increased production activity in the film industry.

UK prosecutors are set to appeal a recent court decision that dismissed terrorism charges against Liam O'Hanna, a member of the punk rap group Kneecap. The charges were dropped due to a legal technicality, as they were not filed within the required time frame. This case is significant as it raises questions about the legal processes surrounding terrorism allegations and the implications for artists and freedom of expression.

Exciting news for poetry lovers! A new collection titled 'The Poems of Seamus Heaney' is set to be released, featuring all of the late Irish poet's 12 collections along with 25 previously unpublished poems. This is a significant event as it brings together both his well-known works and hidden gems, allowing fans and new readers alike to explore the depth of Heaney's literary genius. The release not only honors his legacy but also enriches the literary landscape with fresh insights into his creative mind.

In today's episode of Variety, Brent Lang chats with Alex Winter and Keanu Reeves about their exciting revival of 'Waiting for Godot.' This conversation highlights their artistic journey and the significance of bringing classic theater to new audiences. Additionally, Ellise Shafer shares insights from London on the U.K.'s heartfelt tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, coinciding with the premiere of the documentary 'Ozzy: No Escape From Now.' This blend of theater and music showcases the rich cultural contributions of these iconic figures.

Taylor Swift's 'The Official Release Party of a Showgirl' has made a spectacular debut, topping the U.K. and Ireland box office with an impressive £3.5 million ($4.7 million). This success not only highlights Swift's immense popularity but also showcases the growing trend of concert films drawing audiences to theaters. In contrast, Warner Bros.' 'One Battle After Another' came in second with $2.7 million, bringing its total to $8.1 million over two weekends. This weekend's box office results reflect a vibrant entertainment landscape, with Swift's film setting a high bar for future releases.

Yellow Film Studios, the largest independent studio in the Nordics, has merged with Danish studio REinvent to create Reinvent Yellow. This strategic partnership aims to enhance production, sales, financing, and innovation in the film industry. This merger is significant as it combines resources and expertise from both studios, positioning them to better compete in the evolving entertainment landscape.

Taylor Swift has achieved a remarkable milestone with her new album, breaking her own sales records. The album has garnered the biggest first-week sales of her career in the UK and has set new records in the US as well. This is significant not only for Swift but also for the music industry, as it highlights her enduring popularity and the impact of her work on fans worldwide.

Martha Graham's innovative approach to dance is finally receiving the recognition it deserves as her company gears up for its centenary celebration in the UK. A century ago, Graham began her transformative journey in a small studio above Carnegie Hall, challenging traditional ballet and paving the way for modern dance. This acknowledgment of her contributions not only honors her legacy but also highlights the evolution of dance as an art form, inspiring future generations.

Lisa Herfeldt's first solo exhibition in the UK showcases her unique sculptures made from silicone and foam, which challenge viewers to reflect on societal and material decay. Her innovative use of everyday materials transforms them into thought-provoking art, making her work both captivating and relevant. This exhibition not only highlights Herfeldt's artistic talent but also invites conversations about the state of our world, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts.

Amazon Prime Video faced significant backlash after fans noticed that guns were airbrushed out of James Bond posters on its U.K. website. The removal of such iconic imagery sparked a debate about censorship and the portrayal of classic characters. This incident highlights the ongoing tension between modern sensibilities and traditional representations in media, raising questions about how far companies should go in altering beloved franchises to align with current values.

The recent release of the LAFD's internal report on the Palisades Fire sheds light on the tragic events that led to the loss of 12 lives and widespread destruction in the community. The report highlights a combination of leadership and communication failures, along with environmental factors like dry vegetation and unusual winds, which created a 'perfect storm' for disaster. Understanding these challenges is crucial for improving future responses to wildfires and preventing similar tragedies.

Dua Lipa's 'Radical Optimism' Tour is making waves in LA, especially with Lionel Richie's surprise appearance during the third night at the Kia Forum. The collaboration on the classic 'All Night Long' brought a nostalgic vibe to the concert, showcasing Lipa's ability to blend modern pop with retro influences. This tour not only highlights her musical versatility but also creates memorable moments for fans, making it a significant event in the live music scene.

‘Newport & the Great Folk Dream’ is a captivating documentary that beautifully captures the essence of the Newport Folk Festival during its transformative years from 1963 to 1966. With its stunning black-and-white visuals and powerful performances, the film offers a fresh narrative that highlights why this festival was so electrifying, even in its acoustic form. It's a must-watch for music lovers and anyone interested in the cultural history of folk music.

Coi Leray and her daughter Baby Miyoco have captured hearts online with a delightful moment that showcases their bond. The adorable photo has sparked a lively debate among fans about who Baby Miyoco resembles more, highlighting the joy and connection between mother and daughter. This sweet interaction not only entertains but also emphasizes the importance of family moments in the public eye, reminding us of the love and joy that can be found in everyday life.

In a recent interview, Jimmy Kimmel shared his views on the future leadership of Disney, expressing support for Dana Walden as a potential CEO. While he discussed various topics, including the recent controversies surrounding his show, he chose not to delve into his own future in late-night television. This conversation is significant as it highlights Kimmel's influence in the entertainment industry and raises questions about the direction Disney may take under new leadership.

At the Bloomberg Screentime conference in Los Angeles, Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters addressed speculation about the company's interest in acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery. He emphasized that large media mergers often don't yield positive results, suggesting that Netflix is not looking to expand through major acquisitions. This statement is significant as it reflects Netflix's cautious approach in a rapidly changing media landscape, where consolidation has been a common trend.