Bill Burr defends Riyadh comedy festival spot: ‘It felt right afterward’

Louis CK has recently defended his choice to perform at the Riyadh comedy festival, describing it as a 'good opportunity' despite acknowledging the mixed feelings surrounding the event due to Saudi Arabia's human rights record. While some fellow comedians have criticized the festival for potentially whitewashing the country's regime, CK believes that participating in such events can lead to positive outcomes. This situation highlights the ongoing debate about the role of artists in politically sensitive environments and raises questions about the balance between artistic expression and ethical considerations.

In a groundbreaking achievement, a Toronto hospital has successfully performed Canada's first heart transplant using a donor after circulatory death. This innovative procedure could potentially increase the number of heart transplants by 30%, offering more patients a vital second chance at life. It's a significant step forward in medical science, highlighting the importance of expanding donor options and improving patient outcomes.

Tonight, Manchester United faces Vålerenga in the Women’s Champions League at Leigh Sports Village, marking the start of an exciting campaign for the team. This match is significant as it showcases the growing prominence of women's football and the revamped league format, which aims to enhance competition and visibility. Fans are eager to see if United can secure a strong opening performance, setting the tone for their journey in this prestigious tournament.

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to nominate a new prime minister within the next 48 hours, following the announcement from outgoing Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu. This change comes as MPs emphasize the urgent need to pass a budget by the year's end, highlighting the government's focus on fiscal responsibility and stability. The new appointment could influence France's political landscape and its approach to upcoming economic challenges.

House Democrats are increasing pressure on Republican leader Mike Johnson to swear in an Arizona congresswoman, whose vote could lead to the release of Epstein files. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the two parties, as Democrats accuse Republicans of delaying the swearing-in process to avoid a vote that could expose sensitive information. The implications of this standoff are significant, as it not only affects the legislative agenda but also raises questions about transparency and accountability in government.

This year, many Canadians are avoiding New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant French culture, largely due to their discontent with President Trump. Louisiana's lieutenant governor highlighted this trend, indicating that political sentiments are influencing travel decisions. This matters because it reflects how political climates can impact tourism, which is vital for local economies.

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to appoint a new prime minister within the next two days, a move that brings a sense of relief to the country's political landscape. This decision helps to stabilize the government and reduces the immediate threat of snap elections, allowing for a more focused approach to governance during a critical time.