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Friday, August 7, 2026

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Inside the AI Conference Where FEAR and Potential Collide

On today’s episode of “Daily Variety” podcast, Variety’s Corbin Bolies reports from Las Vegas where he is covering the AI4 conference with a slew of top leaders and true believers. The excitement around generative AI is still as hot as the temperature in Sin City, but the polarizing effect of the technology is evident as […]

Variety·Tech·36d ago

Why California's AI Law WON'T Stop the Problem It Was Made For

California’s new AI transparency law took effect this week, but it defines “transparency” in a way that may not help many consumers. The law, which passed in 2024, sets up a robust transparency infrastructure for AI-generated content, but it does not guarantee that the real “story” of a piece of content is shown when it matters most: at the user’s first impression. What California’s law gets right That story is told through the provenance data embedded within AI-generated media. The transparency

Fast Company·Tech·36d ago

Enterprise AI Doesn't Need Another App — It Needs Its Own LANGUAGE

For the past two years, companies have been asking the same question in slightly different forms: which AI application should we build next?  A customer service agent? A sales copilot? A procurement assistant? A coding agent? A research assistant? A workflow automation layer? A chatbot connected to internal data? A model wrapped in a user interface and connected to tools? All of that makes sense. It is how every new computing era begins. First, people try to build applications directly on top of

Fast Company·Tech·36d ago

How AI Is Helping Humanitarian Groups Reach People FASTER Than Ever

Minutes after catastrophic earthquakes struck Venezuela in June, GiveDirectly got an AI-generated snapshot of the disaster from an internal tool. Then it used other AI tools that analyze satellite imagery to pinpoint the hardest-hit neighborhoods, paired that with poverty data, and posted flyers in person inviting families to apply for aid. Three weeks later, it started sending cash directly to the phones of the people who needed it most. It’s a faster way to help people than some traditional hu

Fast Company·Tech·36d ago

How SpaceX Could REVOLUTIONIZE Global Shipping Forever

You might think about rockets as powerful vehicles that blast astronaut crews and robotic missions off into space. But what if they could be used to send cargo from one side of the Earth to the other, in a fraction of the time it would take a plane? The company SpaceX recently announced a project that aims to use its rockets to do just that. SpaceX launched its Starfall demo mission on June 23, 2026. According to a document from the Federal Aviation Administration, Starfall has two main purposes

Fast Company·Tech·36d ago

Apple Keeps Banning ONE App But Never X—The Reason Will SHOCK You

For roughly an hour this week, Telegram vanished from Apple's App Store. Even during that blip, it was a stunning absence for such a major app: an avenue of communication for more than 1 billion users around the world, used widely as a secure platform for people who live in countries under censorship. Apple later revealed that it had removed the app due to the presence of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and restored it once that content was removed. But the decision once again stirred up ques

The Verge·Tech·36d ago

OpenAI Wants to Be the UNDERDOG Against Apple—Good Luck With That

OpenAI, the artificial intelligence pioneer, is trying on a new public image: the scrappy underdog David defending itself from Apple’s creaky Goliath. It’s an understandable strategy, but making that image stick won’t be easy.  The root of the dispute is OpenAI’s plan to develop its own AI-centric devices. Last month Apple sued OpenAI, alleging that it has stolen trade secrets. This has quickly morphed into a battle in the court of public opinion—and that battle has high-stakes implications for

Fast Company·Tech·36d ago

Inside 'One Night Only'—The Tech-Enforced Sex DYSTOPIA No One Saw Coming

From the omnipresent One Night Only trailer, you'd be forgiven for thinking that the movie glosses over its terrifying and absurd premise - in otherwise normal modern New York, single people can only have sex one night a year - to deliver an entirely traditional romantic comedy. I'm here to report that it does not do that. No, the film is very much about life under Sex Purge Law, but where you might expect questions of politics or religion or fear or humanity, there are instead questions of b

The Verge·Tech·36d ago

With AI, We're All the Sorcerer's APPRENTICE—And We're Losing Control

Hello again and welcome back to Fast Company’s Plugged In. On August 4, the U.K.’s AI Security Institute (AISI) issued a report on the disturbing behavior it had detected while testing two of the latest frontier AI models. Faced with solving a cybersecurity challenge, Anthropic’s Mythos 5 and (to a lesser degree) OpenAI’s GPT-5.6 Sol engaged in activity that—if performed by a human—would be considered appalling. This included attempts to hijack GitHub open-source projects with malicious code thr

Fast Company·Tech·36d ago
Breaking

Why Google, TikTok, and Zillow Are All Making the SAME Brutal Decision Right Now

August is only one week old, but the month has already seen layoffs at a number of high-profile tech companies. But worse, according to data from a popular layoff-tracking website, the number of tech layoffs in 2026 through August 6 has already surpassed the total for all of calendar year 2025. Here’s what you need to know. Zillow cuts over 500 jobs The online real-estate and rental platform Zillow is so far the tech company to announce the largest number of job cuts in August, according to dat

Fast Company·Tech·36d ago

The Device That TRANSFORMED My Old Gadgets Into Modern Tech

When I haul my 27-inch desktop monitor into the garage to film fun gadget videos… or want to play Japanese SNES games with friends… or lose the AC adapter for my old external hard disk… I can now power them with a USB battery instead. None of them came with USB-C ports; the entire USB protocol was barely a twinkle in its creator's eye when Nintendo shipped the Super Famicom in 1990! But a tiny programmable dongle, from a company called Werewolf, can transform old power ports to accept USB-C el

The Verge·Tech·36d ago

Samsung's Latest Foldable Does Something NO Other Phone Can Match

The Z Fold 8 Ultra retains the boxy shape of Samsung’s previous foldables. What makes the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra so Ultra? Samsung's first foldable with the Ultra name isn't a souped-up version of the regular Fold 8, as you might expect. Where the Z Fold 8 is squat and wide, the Fold 8 Ultra retains the thin outer screen and square inner panel of the previous Folds. It does have a substantially better triple rear camera system and a slightly larger battery. But with no support for the S

The Verge·Tech·36d ago

The Smart Bird Feeder That's Now Just $60

The Birdfy Feeder Rookie is a good option if you’re new to birdwatching or simply don’t want to spend a lot on a smart feeder, and several configurations are on sale. The standard model is down to $59.99 ($60 off) at Amazon, which is close to its lowest price. It includes seven days of access to its AI-powered features that can identify different kinds of birds (after the trial expires, it can identify birds up to 10 times per day without a subscription). Alternatively, you can get a version tha

The Verge·Tech·36d ago

OpenAI's BIZARRE New Device That Looks Nothing Like a Phone

We’ve got a new vision for the next great piece of AI hardware—and it (allegedly) is going to look a lot like a donut. New details about OpenAI’s first piece of hardware, designed by JonyIve’s LoveFrom studio, are emerging. According to Bloomberg, the device will be smart speaker with no display. It will be shaped like a donut roughly the size of a hockey puck. It’s battery-powered, small enough to carry around your home with one hand, and made of high-quality metal. It’s loaded with speaker gri

Fast Company·Tech·36d ago

Sony May Release a CHEAPER Version of Its Legendary Headphones

Following the release of its premium and very expensive $650 The Collexion headphones in May, Sony could be taking its 1000X line of wireless noise-canceling headphones in a cheaper direction next month. The company is reportedly planning a refreshed and more affordable version of its six-year-old WH-1000XM4 headphones that will feature similar performance and specs as the original but at a lower price point, according to reliable leaker billbil-kun. The WH-1000XM4C are expected to launch in ear

The Verge·Tech·36d ago

The Google AI Shake-Up That Nobody Saw COMING

Some of the biggest names on Google's AI team got new jobs this week. In some cases, including for legendary Googler Jeff Dean, those jobs are no longer at Google. Given that Google's models seem to be behind the best of what's coming out of anthropic and OpenAI, is this a sign of Google in turmoil? Is it about Demis Hassabis wanting something more interesting to work on than virtual assistants? Or is there something else entirely happening here? On this episode of The Vergecast, Nilay and David

The Verge·Tech·36d ago

Why Americans Are Using AI for Money Advice—But Still Don't TRUST It

Some U.S. adults are using artificial intelligence for financial guidance, but it’s far from the most trusted source of advice, according to a new Gallup survey conducted in partnership with Edward Jones, a financial services firm. About 1 in 5 Americans who have sought financial advice in the past year turned to AI, the survey found. But among U.S. adults overall, only about 3 in 10 have “a great deal” or “some” confidence in its expertise for managing money, according to the survey, including

Fast Company·Tech·35d ago

Microsoft Edge Is About to BLOCK Your Ad Blocker — Just Like Chrome Did

Microsoft Edge is ending support for the Manifest V2 extensions platform, which will cut off the uBlock Origin adblocker and others like it, just like Google Chrome did earlier this year. According to Microsoft, there are only 58 extensions on the Edge Add-On Store "with any meaningful usage" that still use MV2, and only three of those aren't available on the newer MV3 platform. Anyone still using these extensions can switch to a different adblocker, like uBlock Origin Lite. Or they could use a

The Verge·Tech·35d ago

Disney Plus Just Added AI Search — But Should You TRUST It With Your Watchlist?

Disney’s AI tools for Disney Plus and ESPN. Disney is testing a new AI-powered tool for Disney Plus that uses a natural language search, a voice query, or a suggested prompt to create a customized row of show and movie recommendations. Disney Plus, like other streaming services, can recommend shows to watch based on your viewing history. But the company says this new tool, which is "a limited beta experiment" that's in testing with a "small group of select subscribers," is intended to recommen

The Verge·Tech·35d ago

The Only Instant Cameras Worth Your MONEY Right Now

There’s something magical about using instant cameras that smartphones can’t match. You can capture a moment, print it out, and then give the photo as a gift or hold onto it. Image quality won’t be all that good, but imperfections are part of the allure. We tested instant camera models from popular brands and landed on a handful that we think are the best. Some aim to preserve the classic experience above all else, while others support companion apps and the ability to print stored photos. Fujif

The Verge·Tech·35d ago
Breaking

OpenAI Just Built Something So POWERFUL They Won't Release It

OpenAI says it is pausing "internal activities" around an in-development AI model, Astra, because it doesn't yet meet new security standards the company is putting in place. The announcement follows its recent disclosure that OpenAI models accidentally hacked Hugging Face. Anthropic and Meta have also since admitted that they had AI models that went rogue and breached other organizations. Recent internal evaluations of an OpenAI model called Astra indicate that it offers "significant advancemen

The Verge·Tech·35d ago
Breaking

Why Roku's AI Channel Feels Like EATING From a Trough

The appeal of free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels has always been the way they make it easier to (re)discover classic films and series. But Roku's latest experiment in the FAST space has less to do with traditionally produced entertainment and is entirely focused on giving viewers access to a constant source of AI-generated content. This week, Roku added four new channels to its library of streamable programming. Along with dedicated feeds for old episodes of Mad TV, Whose Lin

The Verge·Tech·35d ago
Business

Nobody Knows What It Means to 'Be More STRATEGIC' — Here's Why (and How) to Explain It

Somewhere in your organization, right now, a manager is telling a team member to “be more strategic.” That team member says “Okay,” walks out of the room, and has absolutely no idea what that actually means. It would have been helpful if the manager had actually given a specific example or two, but that assumes the manager could define it themselves. Because that manager has likely heard the same feedback from their own leader. Leaders love the word “strategic.” But it plays out like a corporate

Why Your HR Team Should CARE That Employees Are Stressed About MONEY

Employees are feeling more financial stress these days—and it isn’t just centered around healthcare costs or retirement worries.  Today, more than half (52%) cite the rising cost of living as their greatest economic worry, while 46% are struggling to meet household expenses on time, according to PwC’s 2026 Employee Financial Wellness Survey. One in four respondents say they often or always run out of money between paychecks. Human resources consultant Stacey Berk, founder and managing consultant

The 6 HABITS Emotionally Intelligent Leaders Use to Become EXCEPTIONAL

For nearly three decades, emotional intelligence has been one of the strongest predictors of workplace success. While technical expertise and cognitive ability still matter, the skills that set high performers apart are deeply human: self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to build healthy relationships. Employers have taken notice. Research cited by Harvard Business School found that 71% of employers value emotional intelligence more than technical skills when evaluating candidates, while stud

The $10 TRILLION Reason Your Boss Wants You Back in the Office

Low employee engagement is a widespread problem that is having a profound and costly impact on workplaces. According to Gallup, the analytics and advisory company, low engagement resulted in approximately $10 trillion in lost productivity last year. That’s the equivalent of 9% of GDP. Gallup also reported that in 2025 employee engagement was at its lowest level since 2020, and has been on a steady decline globally the last two years. There are several factors contributing to this shift, the most

Why Hollywood's Biggest Merger Can't Afford to WAIT Any Longer

Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer voiced support for the stalled Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger, which is headed to an antitrust trial to begin in March 2027. While Lionsgate competes with Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. in some areas, including theatrically released movies, Lionsgate also sees both as customers (or potential customers) in other areas. Ultimately, having […]

Variety·Business·36d ago

Why America Suddenly STOPPED Eating Salads

As the cyclosporiasis outbreak continues to rage across the United States, salad chains like Sweetgreen are preparing for a significant decline in sales. The company’s second quarter earnings report, released on Thursday, included a new outlook for 2026 that “reflects reduced consumer demand for fresh prepared foods due to the multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis since mid-July.”  Sweetgreen now predicts same-store sales for the year will drop between 7% and 8%, worse than its previous outlook,

The July Jobs Report That Just Changed EVERYTHING for Your Wallet

Jobs Report Today: Economy Lost 23,000 Jobs in July; Dow Rises — Live Updates  WSJ The US economy unexpectedly lost 23,000 jobs last month  CNN US employers unexpectedly cut 23,000 jobs, unemployment dips to 4.1%  kcci.com July payrolls fall by 23,000, putting Fed hike in doubt — live updates  MarketWatch Weak Jobs Report Does Not Eliminate Prospects of a September Rate Rise  The New York Times

Why U.K. Concessions Just Made Paramount Merger UNMISTAKABLE Danger

A coalition group campaigning against the proposed merger of Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery has said the U.K.’s approval of the merger after obtaining “major concessions” lends “powerful credibility” to the pending legal case in the U.S. Earlier this week the U.K. confirmed the merger had received necessary approval to proceed after Paramount beefed […]

Variety·Business·36d ago

Employee Happiness Is Finally CLIMBING Back—Here's Why

A new survey shows employee morale is on the rise after hitting all-time lows. BambooHR, an HR software platform, used employee net promoter scores (eNPS) — a numeric rating of how likely employees are to recommend the organization as a place to work — and turnover data to assess employee happiness. According to the company’s recent global Employee Happiness Index with data from 51,000 employees, eNPS rose to 40 from January to June, the strongest first half of the year since 2023. This follows

NBCUniversal Chief on Growing Peacock and Becoming a Daily HABIT With Users

On today’s episode of Variety‘s “Strictly Business” podcast, Matt Strauss, chairman of NBCUniversal Media Group, expands on the evolution of the Peacock streamer and his view of the “the great re-bundling” that is underway for streaming media. Strauss, who is a 22-year veteran of Comcast and NBCUniversal, unpacks the deal that NBCU recently struck with […]

Variety·Business·35d ago
Breaking

The ONE Big Problem That's Threatening Wendy's Entire COMEBACK

Wendy’s deals might be “biggie.” But it’s performance this year hasn’t been.  On an earnings call that felt more like a public reckoning, executives for The Wendy’s Company shared that the Dublin, Ohio-based chain was “clearly not earning at [its] potential.”  In the first half of the year, Wendy’s faced slowing sales, lower restaurant traffic, and a slew of store closures. The company announced it will cut its dividend in half—from 14 cents a share to 7—as it attempts to stabilize profit throu

The July Jobs Report That Just Revealed a WEAKENING U.S. Economy

Job losses in July and negative revisions reveal a weakening U.S. labor market  NBC News What the jobs report can’t tell us about the confounding economic moment  CNN Labor Market Shifts Into Reverse  The New York Times US job market stalled in July as employers cut 23,000 jobs, delivering political setback to Trump  AP News Here are three key takeaways from the disappointing July jobs report  CNBC

Why Walmart's Gaming Site Just FIRED Its Entire Editorial Team

Restart, a games media website launched in late 2024 that was sponsored by Walmart, has laid off its "entire editorial team," according to a Friday post from Brandy Berthelson, the site's former editor-in-chief. Other staffers have also posted about being laid off. Restart is operated by Moonrock, a content marketing agency, though its editorial mission page says it's "powered" by Walmart. That page outlines how Walmart is (or was) involved: When we mention a game, we'll provide purchase links t

The Jobs Report That Just Made Wall Street PANIC

US suffers unexpected job losses in July, markets dial back rate hike expectations  Reuters U.S. economy unexpectedly lost 23,000 jobs in July  CNBC Labor Market Shifts Into Reverse  The New York Times U.S. employers unexpectedly cut 23,000 jobs amid strain from the Iran war, unemployment dips to 4.1%  PBS 'Weaker than we thought': Jobs surprise deals setback for GOP in elections  politico.com

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Politics
Breaking

Why Congress Just Voted to PUNISH the Man Who Led America's COVID Response

Senate committee votes to hold Fauci in contempt for refusing to answer COVID questions  AP News What happens now that a Senate panel voted to hold Fauci in contempt  CNN US Senate panel votes to hold Fauci in contempt of Congress over Covid hearing  The Guardian Fauci held in contempt as COVID cellphone lands in hands of Senate investigators  Fox News Senate Panel Votes to Hold Fauci in Contempt of Congress  The New York Times

Trump's Latest Move Could Redefine Who Gets to Be AMERICAN

Live Updates: Trump Targets Birthright Citizenship Again in New Executive Orders  The New York Times Oregon leaders slam Trump orders targeting birthright citizenship  Statesman Journal Trump again tries to curb birthright citizenship and ‘birth tourism’ through executive action  CNN ACLU blasts Trump’s new orders on birthright citizenship, saying they are doomed to fail in court– live  The Guardian Trump again limits US birthright citizenship with new executive orders  BBC

What the Justice Department Just Accused Duke Law School of DOING

Justice Department Accuses Duke Law School of Racial Discrimination  The New York Times DOJ accuses Duke Law of racial discrimination against white, Asian applicants  The Hill DOJ accuses Duke Law of discriminating against white and Asian applicants  newsobserver.com Justice Department finds Duke Law discriminated based on race in admissions  ABC11 News DOJ Says Duke Law School Discriminated in Admissions  Bloomberg.com

Trump Stands By Hegseth Despite What EVERYONE Is Saying

‘Smart guy’: Trump says he stands by Pete Hegseth as defense secretary  NBC News Trump grows angry over reports on depleted munitions — believing it weakens him in Iran negotiations  CNN How the U.S. Squandered Its Strategic Advantage  The Atlantic EXCLUSIVE: US has used 'virtually all' of its long-range precision missiles during Iran war, sources say  Reuters Trump Orders Leak Probe After Venting About Media Coverage of Munitions Stockpile  WSJ

Breaking

Why McConnell Is FINALLY Leaving the Rehab Center

McConnell discharged from rehab center, will continue recovery at home  The Washington Post McConnell says he’s been discharged from rehab center and will continue recovery at home  CNN McConnell says he's leaving rehabilitation center to continue recovery at home  Dallas News Mitch McConnell announces discharge from rehabilitation center  The Guardian Sen. Mitch McConnell discharged from rehab center following hospitalization in mid-June  NBC News

What's Unfolding in Tennessee's Primary Could RESHAPE the State

Live coverage: Tennessee’s August primary election  Tennessee Lookout Blackburn Wins Republican Nomination for Tennessee Governor  The New York Times Live results: Tennessee gubernatorial primary election 2026  The Washington Post Conservative firebrand who went viral with anti-CCP ad survives key primary  Fox News Polls closed! Tennessee Primary Election Day information on candidates, districts and more  WZTV

Why Max Miller Is Staying IN for Now

Why Max Miller is staying in (for now)  Axios Sen. Bernie Moreno sent daughter, granddaughter ‘out of state’ amid Max Miller allegations  CNN Max Miller Says He'll Lend $1 Million To His Campaign Despite Calls For Him Exit Race  Forbes Bunny Dolls and Disturbing Allegations: Max Miller’s Strange CNN Interview  The New York Times Mike Johnson Would Prefer Not To  The Atlantic

The Nation's Cartoonists on the Week in POLITICS

Every week political cartoonists throughout the country and across the political spectrum apply their ink-stained skills to capture the foibles, memes, hypocrisies and other head-slapping events in the world of politics. The fruits of these labors are hundreds of cartoons that entertain and enrage readers of all political stripes. Here's an offering of the best of this week's crop, picked fresh off the Toonosphere. Edited by Matt Wuerker.

Politico·Politics·36d ago

Why Thousands of Haitians Are Suddenly Facing DEPORTATION

DHS secretary Markwayne Mullin says ‘We’re going after them right now’ despite threat of violence in home country Hundreds of thousands of Haitians are faced with the prospect of imminent risk of arrest and deportation – to a home country racked with crime, violence and political unrest – after the Trump administration officially stripped them of humanitarian protections that had allowed them to live and work legally in the United States for years. US district judge Ana Reyes confirmed on Wedne

Don Lemon's Legal Move That Exposes Trump's OBSESSION With Silencing Him

Don Lemon asked a federal judge to dismiss criminal civil-rights charges against him related to his presence as a protest earlier this year at an anti-ICE protest in Minnesota. In a filing Friday, the former CNN anchor’s lawyers asserted the indictment of Lemon stemmed from Donald Trump’s longstanding “animus” and violated the First Amendment. “The […]

Variety·Politics·36d ago

The Executive Order That Could Change EVERYTHING About Vaccines

President Trump has pressed top U.S. health officials to place vaccines under scrutiny, calling for more research. Bloomberg/Getty Images The Trump Administration is considering an executive order on vaccines and autism as early as next week.  The White House move contradicts a large body of evidence showing no link between vaccines and autism.  Experts reaffirm that vaccines are safe and effective, and encourage parents to speak with their pediatricians about childhood vaccination.  The Tru

Trump's New FCC Pick Has Ties to the CHAIRMAN

President Donald Trump on Friday nominated Danielle Thumann, who currently serves as senior counsel to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, to serve as a commissioner on the agency. If she’s confirmed, it would give Republicans a 3-1 advantage at the FCC (with one remaining seat still unfilled). Trump submitted Thumann for a term of five years […]

Variety·Politics·36d ago
Breaking

The Senator Who Just CLEARED the Way for Trump's Attorney General

Cassidy backs Blanche for attorney general, appearing to clear way for confirmation  The Washington Post Bill Cassidy Will Back Todd Blanche as Attorney General, Salvaging His Confirmation  The New York Times Blanche wins votes for Senate confirmation  Politico Trump administration live updates: GOP Sen. Bill Cassidy backs Todd Blanche’s AG nomination  NBC News Murkowski to oppose Todd Blanche nomination, narrowing his path to confirmation  CNN

Breaking

The Trump Immigration Move That Just Got a Judge's APPROVAL

Decision follows supreme court ruling that allowed US government to strip protections for Haitians and Syrians Temporary protected status (TPS) for hundreds of South Sudanese nationals in the United States is set to end after a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration can move forward with stripping their protections. On Friday, US district judge Patti Saris of the district of Massachusetts rejected an attempt by immigrant rights organizations including the New York-based African Commun

The Republican Holdout Who Just Changed Todd Blanche's FATE

Sen. Bill Cassidy, a critical Republican holdout, backs Todd Blanche for attorney general  NBC News Bill Cassidy Will Back Todd Blanche as Attorney General, Salvaging His Confirmation  The New York Times Blanche wins votes for Senate confirmation  Politico Trump administration live updates: GOP Sen. Bill Cassidy backs Todd Blanche for attorney general  NBC News GOP holdouts say they will back Blanche's attorney general nomination after striking deal over fund  AP News

The SUPREME COURT Battle That Could Reshape Trump's White House FOREVER

Trump Live Updates: White House Ballroom Blocked by Appeals Panel, Setting Up Supreme Court Fight  The New York Times US appeals court halts Trump ballroom project paving way for Supreme Court showdown  BBC Appeals court rules Trump can’t build White House ballroom without congressional approval  AP News Another court blocks White House ballroom work, teeing up a Supreme Court review  NPR Trump’s White House ballroom construction halted by judge  The Telegraph

Trump Just Called on Pirro to Re-Visit This CONTROVERSIAL Case

Trump calls on Jeanine Pirro to ‘re-visit’ Reflecting Pool case  politico.com Trump response to Pirro question ‘shocking’: Haberman  The Hill Charge against former Olympian in Reflecting Pool case is dismissed  The Washington Post See Where the Reflecting Pool Renovation Appeared to Fail  The New York Times Calls for IG probe of Reflecting Pool renovation come amid questions over watchdog's independence  GovExec.com

International

Houthi Attacks Leave 11 Civilians INJURED Near Yemen Border

Saudi military says Houthi attacks left 11 civilians, including a child, injured near Yemen border  AP News Eleven wounded in Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia  The Jerusalem Post Houthi attacks wound 11 in Saudi Arabia after deadly strike on Yemen troops  Arab News Yemen's Houthis say they hit Saudi target at Najran airport  Reuters 11 civilians said wounded in Houthi attack on Saudi border region  The Times of Israel

Breaking

What Happened Inside This Thai High School Will HAUNT a Nation

Student shoots multiple people at a high school in Thailand, authorities say  AP News Thailand school shooting: suspect shot grandparents before killing at least eight people, police say – latest updates  The Guardian At Least Six Reported Dead in School Shooting in Thailand  The New York Times Seven dead, including gunman, at Thailand school shooting  Reuters Deadly school shooting claims seven lives in Nonthaburi  Khaosod English

Colombia Is About to Plunge Back Into a War Nobody WANTED

As Abelardo de la Espriella takes office as president vowing a new military offensive, the country’s last leftwing rebels are getting ready to fight back As the boat approached the riverbank, camouflaged figures watched from the tree line. Behind them, in the dim understory of the jungle, a commander of the National Liberation Army (ELN) sat with his rifle on his lap, amid the buzz and whine of insects and the thwacks of machetes on bamboo as his troops set up camp, hidden from enemy drones. Co

The School Shooting That Just Shocked THAILAND

At least 15 other people injured after student ⁠opened fire at Debsirin Nonthaburi school, north of Bangkok Thailand school shooting – latest updates A Thai teenager killed at least six people and himself at a school outside Bangkok, after fatally shooting his grandparents, in the country’s worst mass shooting since 2022. Seven people ⁠were ⁠killed in the attack and 15 were wounded, ‌Thai police ⁠said on Friday. Continue reading...

What Happened Inside This Thailand School Will HAUNT You

At Least Six Reported Dead in School Shooting in Thailand  The New York Times Live updates: Teen kills grandparents, schoolmates and teachers in Thailand shooting  CNN Thailand shooting: Seven killed as teen opens fire at home and school near Bangkok  BBC Thai teen kills 8 in rampage at home and school before shooting himself  Reuters Student kills at least 6 in a shooting at a high school in Thailand, authorities say  AP News

Thailand's Deadliest School Attack in Years Ends in TRAGEDY

Live updates: Teen gunman dead after killing teachers in Thailand’s worst school shooting in years  CNN Thai teen kills seven in rampage at home and school before shooting himself  CNA Thailand shooting: Teen kills at least seven and injures more than 30, PM says  BBC At least 6 people killed, more than a dozen injured in Thailand school shooting  ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos Student kills at least 7 people at a high school and a home outside Bangkok, officials say  Austin Am

Why Iran's Protesters May Soon Get WEAPONS From America

Iran War Updates: Houthis escalate deadly attacks on Saudi-backed troops as Cruz says Trump must arm Iran's protesters  CBS News Yemeni minister says two civilians killed in Houthi attacks on government-held city  The Times of Israel Houthi strikes kill dozens in Yemen, officials say, as Saudi Arabia warns of further attacks  The Guardian Houthi Attacks on Yemeni Military Threaten to Reignite Civil War  The New York Times Source close to Saudi army says coalition won’t ‘stand idly by’ on Houthi

Breaking

Why a Student Opened FIRE Near Bangkok—And What Happened to 7 VICTIMS

Student gunman kills at least 7 near Bangkok, officials say  NPR Live updates: Teen gunman dead after killing teachers in Thailand’s worst school shooting in years  CNN Thai teen kills 7 in shooting rampage at home and school  USA Today Thailand shooting: Teen kills at least seven and injures more than 30, PM says  BBC Student gunman kills at least 7 people at a high school and a home outside Bangkok, officials say  AP News

Spain Just Made a Move Against Italy That Could FRACTURE Europe

Move comes in response to Rome imposing similar measures after mass migration rush to Ceuta Spain has announced it will introduce temporary border checks on visitors from Italy in response to Rome imposing similar measures after a mass rush of people from Morocco into Ceuta. The checks, which come “amid the persistent irregular migration pressure” facing Italy, will start at midnight on Saturday and last until 7 September, Spain’s interior ministry said in a statement. Continue reading...

The Hard-Line Message Colombia's New President Is About to DELIVER

Colombia’s new president to take office in ceremony in Cali highlighting hard line on armed groups  AP News Trump Administration Fast-Tracks Military Cooperation With Colombia  The New York Times Colombia’s new president takes office in ceremony in Cali highlighting hard line on armed groups  NBC News Colombia's new president vows to remake the country — and challenge rebel groups  NPR Right-wing lawyer de la Espriella sworn in as Colombia’s new president  The Times of Israel

The Border War Between Spain and Italy That Just ESCALATED

Spain imposes border checks on Italy as countermeasure in Ceuta spat  Al Jazeera Spain to establish border controls on travellers from Italy amid migration dispute  Reuters Spanish authorities monitor social media chatter about another Ceuta mass migrant crossing ahead  CBS News Ceuta’s Camp of the Saints Moment  First Things The Migration Wave That Embarrassed Morocco and Rattled Europe  Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

Science

Scientists Just Put a CEILING on Human Life (And It's Closer Than You Think)

A new study may help broaden understanding of the aspects of aging that may ultimately prove impossible to reverse. Maki Nakamura/DigitalVision/Getty Images A new study probes the upper boundaries of human life span, suggesting that even under the most favorable conditions, DNA mutations may still limit life to 146–194 years. The findings support growing evidence that aging is driven by multiple interacting biological processes rather than a single mechanism. The strongest evidence for livin

Vitamin C Fights Cancer — But Scientists Were WRONG About How

Linus Pauling was widely mocked for claiming that vitamin C could fight cancer, especially after trials using vitamin C pills showed no benefit. Researchers now know that intravenous vitamin C reaches vastly higher concentrations and can behave more like an experimental cancer drug than an ordinary supplement. Early studies suggest it may damage vulnerable cancer cells, reduce treatment side effects, and possibly improve outcomes for some patients.

The Autism Therapy That Works Even When You're ALREADY Grown

Blocking the glycine transporter SLC6A20 restored important brain signaling and improved social, communication, and repetitive behaviors in autism-related mouse models. The treatment also worked in human brain organoids and showed lasting effects in adult mice, suggesting the brain may remain more treatable later in life than previously thought.

Why Scrapping Your Car Right NOW Is Better for the Planet

If you really want to reduce your transportation emissions, it would actually be better to scrap a brand new gas-powered car and switch to an electric vehicle instead of waiting until that gas car stopped working. That’s true even when factoring in the emissions from mining the materials, making each component, and assembling and shipping the cars, as well as powering your new EV with an electric grid that uses fossil fuels. That may be surprising to some car owners, especially those who are use

Health
Breaking

The Chipotle Ingredient That Just Got PULLED From Every Location

Chipotle has pulled jalapeños from restaurants in Minnesota and other locations as the ingredient may have links with the salmonella outbreak. JHVEPhoto/Getty Images Chipotle Mexican Grill has removed jalapeños from Minnesota restaurants and other locations due to potential links to a Salmonella outbreak. The fast-casual restaurant chain assures customers that there’s no further threat of foodborne illness. To prevent Salmonella, cook food thoroughly, keep raw and cooked foods separate, and

Healthline·Health·36d ago
Breaking

Why the Red Cross Is Making an URGENT Plea You Can't Ignore

The American Red Cross has declared its second-ever national blood supply crisis, meaning there is less than a one-day supply of type O positive blood. Michael Siluk/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images The American Red Cross has declared its second national blood supply crisis, warning that some patients could face delays in receiving lifesaving transfusions. The crisis was declared after blood donations fell to a four-year summer low, leaving the organization with less than a one-da

Healthline·Health·36d ago
Breaking

The Drug-Resistant SUPERBUG Quietly Spreading Across 23 States

More than 3,000 cases of Candida auris have been reported in 23 states in 2026. spawns/E+/Getty Images Federal health officials report that the fungal infection Candida auris is spreading in healthcare facilities. CDC data show that some strains of Candida auris have become resistant to medications usually used to treat fungal infections. Experts say the risk to the general public is low, but places such as acute care facilities should take extra precautions to slow the spread of the disease

Healthline·Health·36d ago

The Diet Secret That Could Add YEARS to Your Life (It's Not What You Think)

Recent research shows that eating less protein may slow the aging process. d3sign · Moment/Getty New research suggests reducing protein intake may support healthy aging and longevity. Protein restriction may improve metabolism, reduce inflammation, and reduce cellular damage. Protein needs vary by age, activity level, and overall health, so reducing protein intake may not be appropriate for everyone. New research suggests eating less protein — particularly certain amino acids — may support h

Healthline·Health·36d ago

RFK Jr. Just FLIPPED Everything You Thought You Knew About Healthy Eating

Health Secretary RFK Jr.’s new cooking show puts the inverted food pyramid in the spotlight. Houston Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers/Getty Images Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is hosting a new cooking show on YouTube called “The Real Food Show.” The aim of the MAHA spin-off is to teach viewers how to cook healthy, real foods on a budget. The star of the show is the “upside-down” food pyramid, which was introduced in the updated Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The new guidelines sowed

Healthline·Health·36d ago

The Cholesterol Revolution That Could Change Your PRESCRIPTION Forever

With more than half of U.S. adults now eligible for statins, the face of cholesterol treatment may be changing with drugs like Lipfendra and Inclisiran. FatCamera · E+/Getty A new analysis found that the twice-yearly cholesterol medication inclisiran reduced LDL cholesterol by 49% more than placebo. The FDA approved Lipfendra, the first oral PCSK9 inhibitor for adults with high LDL cholesterol. Updated cholesterol guidelines suggest more than half of U.S. adults may now be eligible for stati

Healthline·Health·36d ago

The Once-Weekly Pill That Could END Daily HIV Treatment

A once-weekly HIV pill combining the antiretroviral drugs islatravir and lenacapavir is as effective as a once-daily treatment. fotolgahan/E+/Getty Images A once-weekly oral HIV treatment is as effective as a widely used once-daily regimen, according to a large clinical trial. More than 93% of participants maintained viral suppression, and none experienced virological failure during the study. A weekly treatment could give people with HIV another option while potentially reducing “pill fatig

Healthline·Health·36d ago

Why Millions Are Now Eating Like It's BIBLICAL Times

“Biblical eating” is a social media trend that involves making food choices based on scripture. cihatatceken/Getty “Biblical eating” emphasizes foods mentioned in the Bible and has become a popular nutrition trend on social media. Experts say the diet includes many healthy foods, but there’s no evidence that it delivers all of the health benefits some influencers claim. Experts caution against versions of the diet that become overly restrictive or replace evidence-based nutrition advice with

Healthline·Health·36d ago

The Body Fat Discovery That Could Explain Your FERTILITY Struggles

Higher body fat percentages are associated with lower sperm counts and changes in male reproductive hormones, including testosterone. Kate/E+/Getty Images Researchers say body fat measurements are a better predictor of male reproductive health than body mass index readings. They report that men with higher body fat percentages have lower sperm counts than men with lower body fat measurements. Men can potentially improve their reproductive health by maintaining a healthy body weight, eating a

Healthline·Health·36d ago

The Hidden Link Between Early Menopause and Your BLOOD Pressure

Premature menopause is associated with a greater risk of high blood pressure, especially among those ages 25 to 35. Maskot/Getty Images A study found that early menopause was associated with a greater risk of high blood pressure. The risk was highest when menopause occurred between the ages of 25 and 35. Experts say this occurs because estrogen plays several vital roles in the cardiovascular system. Hormone replacement therapy can help counteract these risks. Sleep, exercise, diet, taking pr

Healthline·Health·36d ago

What Your 'Healthy' Prebiotic Soda Is REALLY Giving You

New research shows that prebiotic sodas may contain higher sugar and lower fiber than claimed. Rapeepong Puttakumwong/Getty A new study found that prebiotic sodas may contain more sugar and less fiber than they claim.  The findings show that a majority of prebiotic sodas contain more sugar than diet sodas and flavored sparkling water. Researchers also report that not all prebiotic sodas provide the same amount of fiber.  Prebiotic sodas contain dietary fiber that may support gut health, but

Healthline·Health·36d ago

The Brain Damage Your Netflix Habit Might Be CAUSING Right Now

Recent research has found that people who watch a lot of TV in midlife showed reduced volume in certain brain regions. Image Credit: Digital Vision/Getty A recent study found that people who reported watching TV “very often” in midlife showed reduced volume in certain brain regions.  This included areas associated with memory and early signs of Alzheimer’s disease, smaller frontal and occipital lobes, and white-matter damage.  This damage may be associated with dementia, stroke risk, cogniti

Healthline·Health·36d ago

Millions of Thyroid Patients Just Got URGENT News About Their Medication

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Class II nationwide recall of levothyroxine, a common thyroid medication. hudiemm/Getty Images A common thyroid medication is under a voluntary recall after testing found it was less potent than expected. The FDA classified a nationwide recall of levothyroxine sodium tablets as Class II on July 17 after testing found the pills were subpotent, according to the agency’s enforcement report. Those who have been prescribed the medication are encoura

Healthline·Health·36d ago

The FDA Just Approved a FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND Treatment for ADHD

SIMTRIYO is a newly approved central nervous system medication to help treat ADHD in children and adults. Tom Werner/DigitalVision/Getty Images Federal regulators have approved a new medication to help manage attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). SIMTRIYO is a daily tablet authorized for adults and children 6 years and older who weigh at least 44 pounds. Experts say the new medication could be an important additional asset in the treatment and management of ADHD. A new medication

Healthline·Health·36d ago

The Walmart Nut Butter That Could Make You VERY Sick

There has been no shortage of recalls linked to possible Salmonella contamination recently, and, unfortunately, consumers need to be aware of yet another one. This recall involves a nut butter product sold exclusively at Walmart stores in 19 states. Here’s what you need to know. What’s happened? On August 3, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a recall notice warning of possible Salmonella contamination affecting a pistachio nut butter product sold at Walmart stores. The produ

Sports
Entertainment

The 'Michael' Sequel That Could Start Filming SOONER Than You Think

Lionsgate is working on the sequel to “Michael” and hopes to start rolling the cameras soon on the second biopic about Michael Jackson. The studio hopes to begin production in late 2026 or early 2027, Lionsgate’s motion picture chief Adam Fogelson said on Thursday’s earnings call, with the hopes of releasing the final product at […]

Why European Media Leaders Are RALLYING Behind David Ellison's Mega-Deal

The U.K.’s decision to clear Paramount Skydance’s $111 ⁠billion proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery has been broadly welcomed by European industry players. U.K. exhibitors, media executives and analysts have argued the deal reflects a wider shift in regulatory thinking as European broadcasters face mounting competitive pressure from global streaming giants. Following the European Commission’s […]

The Big Bang Theory Star's SHOCKING New Role Nobody Saw Coming

SPOILER ALERT: This story contains spoilers from “Stuart Fails to Save the Universe” Season 1 Episode 3, now streaming on HBO Max. Things get witchy in Episode 3 of “Stuart Fails to Save the Universe,” and a scary, 60-foot Bernadette (Melissa Raush) makes a guest appearance. The aptly titled episode, “Spoiler: Bert Is Magic,” kicks off […]

Ricky Gervais' New Netflix Show Is Nothing Like What You EXPECTED

To kick off the third episode of the Netflix animated comedy “Alley Cats,” protagonist Gus — an overweight orange tabby voiced by writer, creator and frequent director Ricky Gervais (think Garfield with a distinctly working class British accent) — describes his plan for the day. It starts with an achievable goal. Then: “Get distracted immediately. Do […]

The Final Film From a Master Director Who Knew Time Was RUNNING OUT

Thomas Heise’s final film, “Übergang,” arrives at the Locarno Film Festival as both a portrait of one of Germany’s most influential documentary filmmakers and the completion of a project left unfinished by his death. Premiering in the festival’s out of competition section, the film traces Heise’s life through newly shot footage, archival material and photographs, […]

Vishal Bhardwaj's Next Film Tackles a Rape Case That DIVIDED India

Indian auteur Vishal Bhardwaj is developing a film based on the Tarun Tejpal rape case, the director confirmed with Variety, hours after the Bombay High Court overturned a Goa sessions court acquittal and convicted the former Tehelka editor of rape, sentencing him to 10 years’ rigorous imprisonment. Bhardwaj, whose adaptations of Shakespeare – “Maqbool,” “Omkara,” […]

This Spanish Debut at Locarno Is Already Generating MAJOR Buzz

Sirimiri Films, founded by Estibaliz Urresola, director of Berlinale winner “20,000 Species of Bees,” is teaming with Lazona Zinema, the Basque division of Lazona (“Spanish Affair,” “Gigantes,” “No Rest for the Wicked”) to produce “La Koreana,” one of Spain’s banner new talent titles. The projected feature debut of Basque writer-director Joana Moya, “La Koreana” leapt […]

Bruce LaBruce's New Melodrama With Monica Bellucci Sounds WILD

Alliance 4 Development, Locarno’s co-development platform for film projects from Austria, France, Germany and Switzerland, has presented this year’s projects.  The line-up includes Bruce LaBruce’s first French-led feature, “Third Take.” It’s a “female melodrama” starring Monica Bellucci and Béatrice Dalle as two actresses who reunite for a film shoot destined to “become the epiphany of […]

Karan Johar Returns With 21 Celebrities in 'The Traitors' India SEASON 2

Prime Video India has unveiled the trailer for the second season of “The Traitors,” the unscripted celebrity competition series hosted by Karan Johar, set to debut exclusively on the platform on Aug. 13. New episodes will drop every Thursday. Filmed against the backdrop of Suryagarh Palace in Jaisalmer, Season 2 features 21 celebrity contestants drawn […]

A Senegalese Director Explores What It Means to Be QUEER in Africa

“My Father’s Kora” (“La Kora de Mon Père”), a Benin-Switzerland-Germany production, will have its world premiere Aug. 9 at the Locarno Film Festival’s Open Doors section, which has focused on 42 countries of the African continent since 2025. The film follows Souleymane Everston Adowo Freudenreich, an Afro-German trans man who travels to Dakar, Senegal, to […]

Locarno's Buzz Title 'Chapa 100' Adds Major PRODUCERS

“Chapa 100,” the 2025 Atlas Workshops Development Award winner, now a potential highlight at Locarno’s Africa-focused strand Open Doors, has been boarded by Italy-based sales agent Luminalia. Written and directed by Mozambique’s Ique Langa, “Chapa 100” has also added as an associate producer Mo Harawe, whose “The Village Next to Paradise” screened in Cannes Festival’s […]

Werner Herzog to Receive MAJOR Honor at San Sebastián Festival

Prolific filmmaker Werner Herzog will receive the San Sebastián Film Festival’s prestigious Donostia Award during its 74th edition in September. The German director will be honored at the Spanish festival’s opening gala and will screen his latest film “Bucking Fastard,” following its world premiere at Venice Film Festival. “Over a career spanning six decades, Werner […]

Starz Takes $147 Million CHARGE After Ending Major Universal Deal

Starz saw total revenue slide again in the second quarter of 2026 — but the media company reported its first year-over-year growth in streaming revenue in 18 months. Company execs believe the business is turning around, and they’ve raised their outlook for adjusted OIBDA (operating income before depreciation and amortization) growth for full-year 2026 from […]

Luca Guadagnino to Receive Prestigious GLORY Award at Venice Festival

Luca Guadagnino will receive the Cartier Glory to the Filmmaker Award at this year’s Venice Film Festival. The Italian director, who is premiering his seven-hour Bernardo Bertolucci documentary “Joie de Vivre” at this year’s festival, is being honored as “a personality who has made a particularly original contribution to the contemporary film industry,” according to […]

The Preorder Numbers That Prove GTA 6 Will SHATTER Records

Video game publisher Take-Two Interactive drew $1.39 billion in sales from April 1-June 30, the quarter during which it opened presales for “Grand Theft Auto 6.” That figure is not broken down by title, but Take-Two notes the “largest contributors” to the overall number were “‘NBA 2K,’ the ‘Grand Theft Auto’ series, ‘Toon Blast,’ ‘Match […]

The Classic Slasher Movie You'll NEVER Get to Watch

Starting with the original in Camp Miasma in 1980, the horror franchise went on to have a long life. There were multiple sequels, spinoffs in the form of arcade cabinets and board games, and just about every kind of merchandise you can think of, from alarm clocks and lunch boxes to Halloween costumes and action figures. It got so popular there were even knockoff costumes at party stores. For several decades the franchise exerted a powerful, albeit dwindling, impact on the world of horror. But if

The Blue Trail Director Launches New Production Company With First SLATE

Gabriel Mascaro, director of the 2025 Berlinale Grand Jury Prize winner “The Blue Trail,” and top Brazilian producer Paula Cosenza (“Memory House”) have teamed to create Trema, launched as a Northeast Brazil production powerhouse. Trema is headquartered in Recife, Mascaro’s home city and capital of Pernambuco state. Now up and running, Trema is focusing on […]

10 Essential Tools for Discovering and Making MUSIC

This article is republished with permission from Wonder Tools, a newsletter that helps you discover the most useful sites and apps. I love apps like Metronaut and Tomplay, which let me carry a collection of classical (sheet) music on my phone. They also provide piano or orchestral accompaniment for any violin piece I want to play. Today’s story shares 10 other recommended tools for music lovers from my fellow writer and friend, Chris Dalla Riva, who writes Can’t Get Much Higher, a popular Substa

The Producer Behind Madonna's Biggest Hits Just DIED at 69

William Orbit, the Grammy-winning musician and producer best known for his work with Madonna, All Saints and Blur, died on July 23. He was 69. Orbit’s family confirmed his death in a statement posted to his Instagram account on Friday. “It is with profound sadness that the family and friends of William Orbit announce that […]

Breaking

What Perez Hilton Did on LIVESTREAM That Left Officials Rushing to Intervene

Celebrity Blogger Perez Hilton was hospitalized following reports of acts of self-harm that were broadcast on a TikTok livestream. Denise Truscello/Getty Images Blogger Perez Hilton is under medical care after reportedly livestreaming a broadcast in which he was engaging in self-harm. Suicide prevention experts say people who are feeling emotionally overwhelmed can be more susceptible to suicidal thoughts. They say there are practical things people and those around them can do to lower the r

The SECRET Location Where Tom Holland and Zendaya May Tie the Knot

Early 20th-century media tycoon Lord Beaverbrook was known for throwing legendary parties at his country house in Surrey, which hosted everyone from Hollywood royalty like Elizabeth Taylor to historical figures such as Winston Churchill. So it’s fitting that Tom Holland and Zendaya, currently one of Hollywood’s most famous couples, reportedly chose the 160-year-old neo-classical mansion […]

Why This New Show Is Being Called the CHEAP Knockoff of 'Virgin River'

Based on Nevada Barr’s extensive book series, USA Network’s new original drama “Anna Pigeon” follows a law enforcement ranger who trades her career as a Broadway stage manager for the lush grounds of Montana’s fictional Glacier National Park. Hyper-focused on her job and running from the life she left behind, Anna Pigeon (“Chicago P.D.” alum […]

Why Jake T. Austin Was LEFT OUT of the 'Wizards' Revival

Now that the sequel series has ended its three-season run, “Wizards of Waverly Place” star Jake T. Austin has finally opened up about not being included in “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.” Austin, who played youngest sibling Max Russo on all four seasons of the hit Disney Channel sitcom, was the only key cast member from […]

Inside the Silly, Surreal World Behind 'Paddington' and 'Wonka'

He’s helped write movies that are widely adored and have collectively earned more than $1 billion. He’s co-created a sitcom that has become one of the BBC’s most successful exports, with a U.S. adaptation now onto its sixth season. And yet, Simon Farnaby is perhaps most recognizable for mugging his rather expressive and jovial face, […]

The Two Movies That Just DOMINATED the UK Box Office

Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” topped the U.K. and Ireland box office in July with a gross of £56.2 million ($75.6 million), as the market posted a total of £178.2 million ($239.7 million) for the month, 35% ahead of the equivalent five-week period in July 2025, according to Rentrak. The 2025 comparison total of $177.1 million […]

The Elevator Boys Are Taking Their Fame to the BIG Screen

The Elevator Boys, the German content creators turned boy band, have released the trailer for their feature film debut, “Back to the 90s,” ahead of the movie’s premiere on Aug. 21. The German-language Prime Video movie follows five best friends — Matteo (Julien Brown), Jonas (Tim Schäcker), Chris (Luis Freitag), Ben (Jacob Rott) and Oliver […]

The Male Contraceptive Documentary That's About to Spark a REVOLUTION

“Give It a Shot,” a documentary following the decades-long push to bring a reversible male contraceptive to market, will open theatrically across North America this September. Coast to Coast Films, in association with Sandbox Films and ITVS, will release the film. A trailer has been unveiled. Directed and produced by Vaishali Sinha (“Made in India,” […]

Why New Radicals Are Suddenly BACK After 28 Years

Gregg Alexander wasn’t planning to make a splashy return with New Radicals, his pop-rock collective that burned bright and fast in the late 1990s before abruptly disbanding. So it’s fitting that “One Night Only (Break Loose Break Free!),” the group’s first new song in 28 years, arrived last Friday without warning. Its release was so […]

Hilary Duff at MSG, Madonna at WorldPride: August's BIGGEST Moments

Madonna kicked off August with another “Club Confessions” appearance – this time, it was a performance at WorldPride in Amsterdam featuring surprise guest Kylie Minogue. Speaking of surprises, Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock popped into the Hollywood Forever Cemetery to introduce the Cinespia screening of “Practical Magic” The appearance was nostalgic but also a nice […]

How Olivia Rodrigo Made These Etsy Founders 2,000% RICHER Overnight

In early May, Emma Mannino received a direct message on Etsy from someone she didn’t know. The woman, who said she worked for the platform, explained that Mannino had an opportunity through Etsy’s creator co-design program to work with an unspecified “talent” on some designs. The offer was so vague that Mannino, an artist and entrepreneur, thought to herself, “Oh, this is spam.” Mannino needed a gut check, so she called her mom, who is also an artist on Etsy. Mannino asked her, “Did you get this

The Physical and Emotional TOLL Behind 'The Last House'

“The Last House,” a science-fiction horror from French director Louis Leterrier, is a movie born from Covid. A suburban family of four, helmed by Jason (Wagner Moura) and Ann (Greta Lee), is suddenly trapped in their home. With no understanding of the situation outside, and no way to know how long it will last, they […]

Selena Gomez and Christina Aguilera Join EXCLUSIVE Olympics Committee

Selena Gomez, Christina Aguilera, Law Roach, Ciara, Simu Liu and Jeff Goldblum are among those who have been named as founding honorary host committee members of the Olympics-inspired Legacy House in Los Angeles. Legacy House is a multi-year platform that will convene influential leaders through conversations, cultural events, partnerships and community initiatives designed to turn […]

The PAW Patrol Movie With a SURPRISING Political Message

“PAW Patrol… are they still a thing?” asks Mayor Humdinger, the villain of “PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie” — a rare moment of irony in a film otherwise unfashionably devoid of it. That lack of second degree should by rights be charming, in a film landscape where fourth walls are constantly being torn to the […]

The Fashion Brand Named 'Fecal Matter' That's Suddenly EVERYWHERE

The brand name behind recent showstopping fashion moments isn’t quite as delicate as their romantic and otherworldly looks. When asked what an ethereal Zendaya was wearing for The Odyssey‘s premiere in New York, her stylist, Law Roach, responded: “Fecal Matter.” Zendaya’s angelic strapless gown with feathered white wings was the work of Matières Fécales—yes, in English, Fecal Matter—the Paris-based, high-end fashion house founded in Montreal over a decade ago that’s, seemingly suddenly, everywhe

Jason Bateman and MLB Are Making a Yankees Drama for NETFLIX

Netflix is expanding its interest in Major League Baseball — but this time on the scripted drama side. The streamer is developing an untitled drama series about the storied New York Yankees baseball team. MLB Studios, Jason Bateman’s Aggregate Films and writer/director/producer Josh Wakely are on board. Details about the project are minimal so far, […]

'Heated Rivalry' Season 2 Just Cast Its New LEADS

Justice Smith and Charlie Gillespie are joining the Season 2 cast of “Heated Rivalry,” the hit romantic drama from Canada’s Crave Media that airs on HBO Max in the U.S. Smith will play Harris Drover and Gillespie will play Troy Barrett. While official character descriptions have not yet been provided by Crave and HBO Max, […]

Why Katseye's Sophia Is Stepping Back From the GROUP

Katseye member Sophia Laforteza has announced that she’s taking a temporary step back from the group’s upcoming promotional activities, emphasizing that she needs to prioritize her “mental health and wellness.” In a post on Weverse, the group revealed that she has the “utmost support” from the band. “Following thorough consultations with medical professionals, it has […]

Grab the Entire Lord of the Rings Trilogy on 4K for FIFTY Bucks

“One ring to rule them all” | Image: Warner Bros. Looking to spend a weekend inside with a good binge? Gruv has The Lord of the Rings trilogy on 4K Blu-ray marked down to $49.99, just below Amazon’s price and only a little bit higher than the all-time low we usually see around Black Friday. This version includes both the original theatrical releases of all three movies — The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and Return of the King — as well as the extended editions, in case you want to s

The Christopher Nolan Milestone That Took 13 YEARS to Repeat

“The Odyssey” has crossed $1 billion in global ticket sales at a mind-boggling pace. After just three weeks of release, Christopher Nolan’s epic, starring Matt Damon as the Greek king Odysseus, has generated $429.65 million domestically and $578.8 million internationally for a grand total of $1.008 billion. It’s the director’s first movie since 2012’s “The […]

Why Chappell Roan Is Throwing a Two-Day SPECTACULAR in LA

Chappell Roan and her non-profit The Midwest Princess Project have announced a two-day fundraiser “The Super Graphic Spectacular” taking place at Los Angeles’ The Shrine on October 21-22. The events, according to a release, will “unite artists, fans, drag performers, comedians and advocates” for two nights that will both feature headlining performances from Roan and […]

The Film That's About to Dominate Toronto and New York FESTIVALS

U.S.-based Pragda continues its foray into all-rights theatrical and digital distribution with the acquisition of North American rights to Nicolás Pereda’s latest pic, “Everything Else Is Noise” (“Todo lo demás es ruido”) ahead of its debuts at the Toronto Film Festival (TIFF) and the New York Film Festival (NYFF). This marks the second pick-up from […]

The Year's BLOODIEST Scene Got Soundtracked to Counting Crows—Here's Why

SPOILER ALERT: This story contains spoilers for “Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma,” in theaters now via Mubi. “Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma,” the third feature from writer-director Jane Schoenbrun, is not the film you think it is. While it does fit thematically with their two previous impressionistic horror movies — 2021’s “We’re All […]

Breaking

What Will Ferrell Showed MICHELLE OBAMA That Went Viral

Not every up-and-coming artist can say they watched Michelle Obama jam out to their music before landing on the charts. But two weeks after Will Ferrell proudly played his son Magnus Ferrell’s single “Asleep Talking” on the former first lady’s “IMO” podcast, the 22-year-old musician scored his first Billboard hit.  “I did know he was going to do that, but I didn’t […]

Breaking

What Virginie Efira Said When Verhoeven Mentioned LESBIAN Scenes

Paul Verhoeven’s “Benedetta,” about a nun embarking on a scandalous affair with another nun, offended many viewers and sparked protests in several countries. But it didn’t offend its lead Virginie Efira, now at Locarno to pick up the Leopard Club Award. “Was it fun? Yes. I liked that. In France, it’s as if God is […]

Breaking

The Pioneering Entertainment Journalist Who Just Left an UNFILLABLE Void

Flo Anthony, an entertainment journalist known for being the first Black woman to work for the New York Post’s entertainment and Page Six departments, died Thursday after a battle with cancer. She was 74. Anthony’s death was confirmed to Variety by Jack Hirsch, the biographer of Anthony’s husband, Michael Spinks. While working as a journalist, […]

Breaking

The Young Hollywood Stars Everyone's Talking About RIGHT Now

Los Angeles, sweltering thanks to an unusual August humidity, got even hotter on Wednesday as Variety toasted the best and brightest young talent in show business. Variety Power of Young Hollywood, presented by Disney+, welcomed scores of actors, musicians, influencers, agents and execs to the Four Seasons Beverly Hills – including this year’s franchise cover […]

Breaking

Why This 16-Year-Old Lifeguard Just Got Honored on the BAYWATCH Set

Before the “Baywatch” producers wrapped filming the revival’s first season, they brought a special guest to the set this week: Real-life rookie lifeguard Ryder Williams, the 16-year-old who made headlines when he saved a 10-year-old boy on a Santa Cruz beach amid 8-to-10-foot high pounding waves and rip currents. Williams and his parents were invited […]

Why Fenix Flexin Isn't Even DENYING Using AI Anymore

That cover art is almost certainly AI too. | Image: Fenix Flexin It took long enough, but now LA rapper Fenix Flexin appears to have admitted using AI for the 80s synth pop-themed song "Rubberz." His comments follow the producer Medasin's videos claiming that an AI tool called Treblo (formerly Sonauto) was used to make the song, and the company releasing an AI detector that identifies it as Treblo AI-created. In a reply to a comment pointing out that Tyga admitted to relying on AI for his own

Why Dwayne Johnson Is DEFENDING Moana Despite the Brutal Reviews

Dwayne Johnson has come to terms with the tepid critical reception to his latest movie, the live-action “Moana” remake. The muscled thespian spoke with People about his reaction to the film, which drew the ire of critics. “Our first two reviews came out,” Johnson said. “I’ll never forget it … They were amazing. I was […]

The Massage Therapist Who Got Close Enough to HIMMLER to Change History

A handsomely upholstered psychological thriller with more than a little contemporary resonance, the period drama “I Is Another” should spark heated debate about what constitutes a historical fact as well as the increasingly malleable nature of truth today. German writer-director Felix Randau’s fourth feature centers on the fascinating but now mostly forgotten figure of Felix […]

The Director Who Cut 'SO MUCH Nudity' From His Movie

“One Night Only” director Will Gluck doesn’t want you to overthink it. The filmmaker has been fielding a lot of inquiries about the premise, logic and loopholes of his new movie, a raucous romantic comedy about the one night a year where premarital sex is legal. (Think “The Purge,” but for banging instead of murder.) […]

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Breaking

Cambridge's Youngest Black Professor Just RESIGNED Under a Cloud of Allegations

Jason Arday, Cambridge's youngest Black professor, resigns amid plagiarism allegations  CBS News Star Scholar Jason Arday Resigns From Cambridge  The New York Times Youngest Black professor at Cambridge resigns as university investigates allegations of plagiarism  CNN Jason Arday claimed he was paid ‘1.4 million’ by publisher for memoir  The Guardian Met Police boss admits mistake over plagiarism row  BBC

Google News·Other·36d ago
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The Spokane Suspect Who Confessed to 25 OTHER Fires

Spokane arson suspect tells prosecutors he started 25 other fires  The Seattle Times Court records: Arson suspect admits to setting Old Trails Fire, 25 other fires since last summer  krem.com Spokane wildfire suspect planned blaze for weeks, researched weather, police say  OregonLive.com Evacuation level lowered for portion of Autumn Lane Fire  KXLY.com LIVE: Spokane fire update, containment status, evacuations and latest maps  FOX 13 Seattle

Google News·Other·36d ago

Remains Found in Arizona Yard — And the Son May Have FLED the Country

Remains found in Arizona yard in search for missing couple, and their son may have left country, police say  NBC News Two bodies found in Litchfield Park, international hunt launched for missing son  AZ Family Police find 2 bodies in search for missing Arizona family  USA Today Search underway for missing Litchfield Park family  FOX 10 Phoenix Avondale PD investigating ‘suspicious’ disappearance of 3 missing family members  KTAR News 92.3 FM

Google News·Other·36d ago

The Arsonist Who Started TWO Massive California Fires

Man who started Gann Fire was previously sentenced for causing 2018 fire  KCRA Longtime dog breeder dies in Gann Fire in Calaveras County  KCRA One Dead in California Fire Started by Man Who Said He Lit It by Accident  The New York Times Person found dead in home burned in massive Gann wildfire  SFGATE Gann Fire Map  Watch Duty

Google News·Other·36d ago

What This Arson Suspect Told Detectives About His 'BEAUTIFUL' Plan

Detectives say Spokane fire suspect confessed to planning 'powerful, beautiful' blaze weeks in advance  The Spokesman-Review Court records: Arson suspect admits to setting Old Trails Fire, 25 other fires since last summer  KREM Sheriff responds to questions as evacuation frustrations grow  KXLY.com Accused arsonist studied how to maximize Washington wildfire’s harm, police say  The Guardian LIVE: Spokane fire update, containment status, evacuations and latest maps  FOX 13 Seattle

Google News·Other·36d ago

Morning News BRIEF

Trump issues new orders to limit birthright citizenship, Iran shares details of an agreement with Oman to reopen Strait of Hormuz, Trump under pressure to find a breakthrough with Iran.

NPR·Other·36d ago

NYC's Last MetroCard Vending Machine Is for SALE—Who Wants It?

The last of New York City Transit’s MetroCard machines are being auctioned off to the highest bidders. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority stopped selling and refilling MetroCards at the end 2025 and retired its vending machines after that. On August 5, the agency announced it’s selling off a limited number of the iconic machines, including some MetroCard Express models. The auction is now open for online bids; all offers must be received by 8 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on August 19. The

The Spokane Man Who Confessed to Starting DOZENS of Fires

Spokane Arson Suspect Said He’d Started Dozens of Fires, Prosecutors Say  The New York Times Sheriff responds to questions as evacuation frustrations grow  KXLY.com Man charged in Washington wildfire planned it for weeks: ‘Fire is powerful, beautiful’  AL.com Here’s what we know about all the fires currently burning across Spokane County  KREM Spokane fires burned a path of devastation. Experts say get used to it  USA Today

Google News·Other·36d ago

Why Gen Z Is Suddenly Carrying These MYSTERIOUS Bags Everywhere

Gen Z gets a lot of flak for being endlessly connected online. But a new trend is proving that the digital natives are burned out from a life spent consuming content on social media: They’re carrying tech-free purses and totes, otherwise known as “analog bags.”  While Gen Z has already been embracing dumb phones, analog bags seem to be the generation’s latest solution to screen overload. The trend takes the dumb phone trend to the next level with entire bags filled with screenless activities, li

International Beer Day: Everything You Need to Know and Where to Score DEALS

“Hold my beer” has become a common catchphrase to signal that something important is about to go down. It implies that drinking a cold one is an everyday occurrence. According to Alcohol.org, the saying is not wrong. Beer is the preferred alcoholic beverage around the world. Today (Friday, August 7, 2026) we celebrate all those frothy brews on International Beer Day. Here’s some fun facts, statistics, and deals to help you mark the occasion. A brief history of beer The truth is, no one really

Breaking

The Chilling Video That Shows What REALLY Happened at In-N-Out

Chilling video details Idaho In-N-Out mass shooting, citizens' bravery  usatoday.com Twin Falls Embraces Man Who Confronted Idaho In-N-Out Shooting  The New York Times Idaho police release chilling new video of In-N-Out mass shooting  NBC News Timeline: Police detail how deadly In-N-Out shooting unfolded  ktvb.com New video shows gunman shooting victims at Idaho In-N-Out Burger drive-thru  East Idaho News

Google News·Other·35d ago

The Chilling Video Idaho Police Just Released About In-N-Out SHOOTING

Idaho police release chilling new video of In-N-Out mass shooting  NBC News Twin Falls Police to provide update on Canyon Park West shooting  kmvt.com Idaho In-N-Out shooting: Good Samaritan who confronted gunman speaks out  ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos WATCH: Twin Falls police release timeline video from deadly In-N-Out shooting  Idaho News 6 Twin Falls Embraces Man Who Confronted Idaho In-N-Out Shooting  The New York Times

Google News·Other·35d ago

Puerto Rico Just Started RATIONING the One Thing No One Can Live Without

Puerto Rico starts rationing water as drought conditions intensify  washingtonpost.com Caribbean hot spot gripped by water crisis as tourists scramble to reschedule plans  Fox News Hundreds of thousands of people in Puerto Rico wake up with no running water as rationing begins: "It's brutal"  CBS News Puerto Rico Will Begin Rationing Water Amid Fresh Crisis  The New York Times ‘This is chaos’: Water emergency in Puerto Rico leaves some desperate  washingtonpost.com

Google News·Other·35d ago

The US Police Officer Accused of KILLING Three People in Mexico

Chad Eberle of Texas charged over deadly shooting in Saltillo that officials say stemmed from custody dispute A Texas police officer has been arrested in Mexico after authorities there accused him of killing three people and critically injuring the mother of his child in what investigators say stemmed from a dispute over the custody of the minor. The Coahuila attorney general’s office said 35-year-old Chad Eberle was arrested on Wednesday at the border on a warrant accusing him of femicide and q