After years of anticipation, J. Cole is officially back. The rapper and Dreamville founder has confirmed that his highly awaited studio album, The Fall‑Off, will be released on February 6, 2026. Fans have been eagerly awaiting this project ever since the concept first appeared in the closing track of his 2018 album KOD, titled “1985 (Intro to The Fall Off).”
The Fall‑Off has been teased for years, with fans speculating about its content, collaborations, and release date. The album is expected to continue Cole’s tradition of introspective lyricism and socially conscious storytelling, themes that have defined his career.
In a cinematic teaser released alongside the announcement, Cole reflects on fame, legacy, and the passage of time, giving listeners a glimpse into the album’s deeper themes.
The album’s announcement signals a potential turning point in Cole’s career, possibly serving as his final solo project. The rapper has previously hinted that this album would mark a “full circle” moment, wrapping up a decade of introspection and artistry.
Social media erupted following the announcement, with fans praising Cole for maintaining artistic integrity and building anticipation over nearly eight years. Music communities online are already speculating about possible features, production credits, and standout tracks.
CoComelon has recorded another historic milestone on YouTube, as its animated children’s classic “Wheels on the Bus” emerged as one of the most-watched music videos worldwide in 2025, pulling in an estimated two billion views within the year across global audiences.
The achievement reinforces CoComelon’s dominance in digital children’s entertainment and highlights the continued power of nursery rhymes in the streaming era.
Produced by Moonbug Entertainment, CoComelon has long been a heavyweight on YouTube, consistently ranking among the platform’s most-subscribed and most-viewed channels. “Wheels on the Bus” is one of its flagship videos, enjoyed by toddlers and families across multiple regions and languages.
While YouTube does not release official annual rankings that isolate children’s content from general music videos, industry trackers and viewership estimates indicate that “Wheels on the Bus” recorded extraordinary engagement in 2025, with view counts reportedly crossing the two-billion-view mark within the calendar year.
Unlike mainstream pop releases, CoComelon’s success exists in a unique category where children’s music often rivals and sometimes surpasses global chart hits in raw view numbers. Over time, “Wheels on the Bus” has accumulated billions of lifetime views, placing it among YouTube’s most-watched videos of all time.
Its 2025 performance further cements children’s digital programming as one of the most powerful segments in online video consumption.
Zootopia 2 has officially been crowned Best Animated Movie at the 27th Annual Golden Tomato Awards, presented by Rotten Tomatoes. The honor places the Disney Animation sequel at the top of the year’s most critically acclaimed animated releases, based on aggregated critic reviews.
The Golden Tomato Awards recognize films and television shows with the highest Rotten Tomatoes scores across multiple categories, factoring in both quality and consistency of critical reception throughout the year.
Released nearly a decade after the original Zootopia (2016), Zootopia 2 faced intense expectations and has largely exceeded them. Critics praised the sequel for expanding the original film’s world while tackling timely social themes with humor, emotional depth, and polished animation.
Full List of 2025 Golden Tomato Award Winners
Below is the complete list of categories and winners from the 2025 Golden Tomato Awards:
Top Overall Winners
Best Movie: Sinners
Best Limited Release Movie: Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
Best TV Series: Andor (Season 2)
Best New Series: Pluribus (Season 1)
Best Returning Series: Andor (Season 2)
Best Anthology / Limited Series: Adolescence
Movie Genre Winners
Best Action & Adventure Movie: One Battle After Another
Best Animated Movie: Zootopia 2
Best Comedy Movie: The Naked Gun
Best Documentary Movie: The Perfect Neighbor
Best Drama Movie: Sentimental Value
Best Horror Movie: Sinners
Best International Movie: Sentimental Value
Best Mystery & Thriller Movie: Black Bag
Best Romance Movie: Pillion
Best Sci-Fi & Fantasy Movie: Companion
Best Music Movie: KPop Demon Hunters
TV Category Winners
Best Comedy Series: The Studio (Season 1)
Best Drama Series: Adolescence
Best Horror Series: Alien: Earth (Season 1)
Best Historical Series: Wolf Hall (Season 2)
Best Mystery & Thriller Series: Task (Season 1)
Best Sci-Fi & Fantasy Series: Andor (Season 2)
Fan Favorite Awards
Fan Favorite Movie: Sinners
Fan Favorite Action Movie: Superman
Fan Favorite Animated Movie: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle
Fan Favorite Concert Movie: ATEEZ World Tour: Towards the Light – Will to Power
Fan Favorite Drama Movie: Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale
Fan Favorite Family Movie: How to Train Your Dragon
Rockstar Games has taken swift action after disturbing player-created content referencing the real-world assassination of American political commentator Charlie Kirk surfaced in Grand Theft Auto Online.
According to multiple reports, some users exploited the game’s recently introduced Mission Creator tool to design custom scenarios that mirrored the tragic shooting. The missions quickly drew backlash online, prompting Rockstar’s parent company, Take-Two Interactive, to intervene.
Following public attention, Rockstar removed the offending missions from GTA Online and banned further creation or distribution of similar content. The company also reportedly added “Charlie Kirk” to its internal content filter, preventing players from publishing or searching missions using his name.
While Rockstar has not released a public statement, the move signals a clear stance: real-world violence, especially involving identifiable individuals, will not be tolerated in user-generated gameplay.
The controversy stems from GTA Online’s expanded creative tools, which allow players to design and share custom missions. While the feature was intended to boost creativity and community engagement, it also opened the door to content that crossed ethical and social boundaries.
One particular mission circulated widely on social media, sparking outrage and renewed debate about moderation in open online gaming environments.
By removing the missions and censoring related references, Rockstar has drawn a rare but firm line in a franchise often associated with creative freedom and controversy.
The incident has reignited conversations around user-generated content moderation, especially as games increasingly function as social platforms rather than just entertainment products.
Stephen Graham has confirmed that plans for a second season of Netflix’s Adolescence are officially in motion, following the show’s major night at the 2026 Golden Globe Awards.
The British actor and co-creator revealed the update backstage at the Globes, where Adolescence emerged as one of the ceremony’s biggest winners. While the series was originally presented as a limited drama, Graham’s comments suggest the story may not be over just yet.
Speaking after his Golden Globe win, Graham confirmed that he and co-creator Jack Thorne are actively discussing ideas for a follow-up season. However, he stressed that the process is still at a very early stage.
According to Graham, any continuation of Adolescence would require careful thought, especially given the emotional weight and cultural impact of the first season. He hinted that if a second season happens, it may not be a direct continuation of the original storyline, suggesting an anthology-style approach instead.
Netflix has not yet officially greenlit Season 2, and no timeline, cast details, or storyline have been confirmed.
Adolescence had a dominant showing at the 2026 Golden Globes, further fueling conversations about the show’s future. The series won:
Best Limited or Anthology Series
Best Actor in a Limited Series – Stephen Graham
Best Supporting Actor – Owen Cooper
Best Supporting Actress – Erin Doherty
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The wins capped off an already impressive awards season for the show, which has been widely praised for its performances, writing, and unflinching portrayal of modern youth and social pressures.
Since its release, Adolescence has sparked widespread discussion online and beyond, with viewers praising its realism and emotional depth. Graham acknowledged the impact during awards season, noting that audiences have shared personal stories about how the series resonated with them and opened difficult conversations.
That cultural response, combined with its awards success, appears to be a key reason why the creators are now open to exploring what comes next.
For now, Adolescence Season 2 remains unconfirmed but possible. If a second season does move forward, it is expected to take several years and could introduce a new story rather than revisiting the original characters.
This article is part of our weekly #OpinionPiece series. Today, we deviate slightly from our schedule to celebrate the birthday of a modern legend, Asake.
Introduction
This is a special edition of our series! Today, January 13, 2026, marks the 31st birthday of the man who redefined the speed of success in the Nigerian music industry: Asake (Ahmed Ololade).
To celebrate “Mr. Money,” we are diving into his journey from the “Lungu” streets of Lagos to the global arenas and looking at the pivotal moves he has made in just the last few months.
Today, the 13th of January 2026, the “Lungu Boy” himself turns 31. Just four years ago, many of us were just learning his name through “Omo Ope.” Today, it is impossible to discuss the global lifestyle of Afrobeats without mentioning his name.
In my opinion, Asake is not just a musician; he is a cultural movement. While 2022 and 2023 were about his “lightning fast” rise, I believe 2025 and the start of 2026 have shown us a more mature, independent, and grounded version of the artist.
The Career Highlights
Asake’s career trajectory is, factually, one of the most successful in African history. He achieved what few thought possible; three consecutive #1 albums in Nigeria.
From Mr. Money with the Vibe (2022) to Work of Art (2023) and finally Lungu Boy (2024), which became the longest-running #1 album in Nigerian chart history.
In 2024 and 2025, he successfully headlined the world’s most iconic stages, including Madison Square Garden and the O2 Arena, proving that his “Street-Pop” sound had no borders.
Beyond winning the Best African Act at the 2024 MOBO Awards, his 2025 Grammy nomination for “MMS” (with Wizkid) solidified his status as an elite global collaborator.
The Birth of Giran Republic
Choosing independence is one of the most significant lifestyle and business moves Asake made as he departed from YBNL Nation in early 2025.
In February 2025, Asake officially launched his independent label, Giran Republic. This marked his transition from being a “star under Olamide” to becoming a CEO and mogul in his own right.
Opinion Piece: I see this as a bold lifestyle statement. In an industry where artists often fear leaving the nest of a major label, Asake chose the “Giran” path. It showed his fans that true success is about eventually owning your platform.
The 2026 Milestone: Family and Reconciliation
Few weeks ago before his 31st birthday, Asake made headlines for something more personal than music: healing his home.
Following public accusations in 2025 regarding neglect of his family, January 9–10, 2026, saw a major turnaround. Asake publicly reunited and reconciled with his father (Fatai Odunsi), his daughter, and his baby mama. He reportedly pledged to finance his father’s medical bills and purchase a new home for him. He also paid a visit to his Alma mater where he was welcomed by students and authorities of the school.
Opinion Piece: I believe this is his most important “win” yet. At 31, Asake is showing that being “Mr. Money” is empty if your foundation isn’t solid. This reconciliation shows a man maturing beyond the fast-paced fame of his 20s.
The Fashion Oracle: Defining the Gen Z Look
Asake’s lifestyle influence on Gen Z fashion remains unparalleled.
From his Paris Fashion Week appearances (showcasing Marine Serre and Off-White) to his signature baggy trousers and eclectic grills, he has made “quirky-cool” the standard.
Opinion Piece: He taught a generation that you don’t have to look like a traditional “gentleman” to be taken seriously in global luxury and it’s also okay to try out different styles until you probably understand what works best for you.
Even though I can’t really say if this current look of his would be his last change, we can all agree his styles are interesting. His fashion is a mix of Lagos “Lungu” (slum/street) energy and high-end couture. It’s an “unbothered” lifestyle that resonates with millions.
Starting 2026 on a High: The Goldrush Dome
Asake didn’t wait long to dominate 2026. Just ten days ago, on January 3, 2026, he shut down the 10,000-capacity Goldrush Dome in Johannesburg, South Africa.
His album, Mr. Money with the Vibe, has also surpassed 800 million streams on Spotify, entering the top 10 Nigerian projects on the platform.
This was his first-ever headline show in South Africa, a market that has deeply influenced his sound (through Amapiano).
Opinion Piece: By starting the year this way, he is signaling that 2026 will be another year where we will have more of Asake because his impact is just beginning.
As we celebrate Asake today, we aren’t just celebrating hit songs like “Lonely at the Top” or “Mentally.” We are celebrating the evolution of a man.
From the theatre student at OAU to the CEO of Giran Republic, Asake’s 31st birthday represents a transition from “The Next Big Thing” to a stable, independent, and family-oriented icon.
Happy Birthday, Ololade Mr. Money. The world is still watching.
Who should be our next feature for the #OpinionPiece series? Drop your comment below!
According to new data released by the streamer and reported by Deadline, Pluribus, the science-fiction drama created by Vince Gilligan, has officially become the biggest series launch in Apple TV+ history, surpassing all previous originals on the platform in viewership and engagement.
The milestone estabished Pluribus as Apple TV+’s most successful series to date, both in terms of audience reach and impact.
Apple confirmed that Pluribus delivered the largest global audience ever for an Apple TV+ original series within its debut window. The show also drove a noticeable spike in new subscriptions and viewing hours, outperforming past hits such as Severance, The Morning Show, and Slow Horses.
While Apple did not release exact numbers, industry sources describe the performance as “unprecedented” for the platform, marking a major moment in Apple TV+’s original content strategy.
Vince Gilligan’s Return Pays Off
Created by Vince Gilligan, best known for Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, Pluribus marked his first project since concluding the Better Call Saul universe. Expectations were already high, but the series has exceeded them commercially and critically.
The show stars Rhea Seehorn, reuniting her with Gilligan after their acclaimed collaboration on Better Call Saul. Her performance has been widely praised and has already earned major awards recognition during the ongoing awards season.
Beyond its viewership success, Pluribus has emerged as a critical favorite. The series has scored strong reviews for its writing, performances, and thematic depth, with particular attention on Seehorn’s lead role.
The show’s success at major awards ceremonies has further boosted its visibility, helping it cross over from prestige television into mainstream conversation.
Pluribus is a science-fiction drama centered on a world-altering phenomenon that transforms humanity into a shared, collective consciousness. The series explores identity, autonomy, morality, and what it truly means to be human.
Rather than leaning heavily on spectacle, the show focuses on character-driven tension and philosophical questions, a creative choice that has resonated strongly with viewers.
A Defining Moment for Apple TV+
The success of Pluribus represents a significant moment for Apple TV+ as it continues to compete with established streaming giants. Landing its biggest series ever underlines the platform’s growing reputation for premium, creator-driven television.
With a second season already in development, Pluribus is positioned as a long-term flagship series for Apple TV+.
The 57th NAACP Image Awards nominations are officially out, shining a spotlight on the best in film, television, music, literature, and digital content. This year’s list celebrates Black excellence across a variety of creative fields, with fan favorites and rising stars vying for top honors. The ceremony is scheduled for February 28, 2026, airing live on BET with a simulcast on CBS.
Entertainer of the Year
One of the most anticipated categories, Entertainer of the Year, brings together performers who have made significant impact across multiple platforms:
Cynthia Erivo
Doechii
Kendrick Lamar
Michael B. Jordan
Teyana Taylor
Both Kendrick Lamar and Teyana Taylor received six nominations each across different categories, highlighting their dominance in music and film this year.
Television & Streaming
Television continues to shine with shows that blend storytelling, culture, and humor.
Outstanding Comedy Series
Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Harlem (Prime Video)
Survival of the Thickest (Netflix)
The Residence (Netflix)
The Upshaws (Netflix)
Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series
Cedric The Entertainer – The Neighborhood
David Alan Grier – St. Denis Medical
David Oyelowo – Government Cheese
Mike Epps – The Upshaws
Vince Staples – The Vince Staples Show
Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series
Ayo Edebiri – The Bear
Maya Rudolph – Loot
Michelle Buteau – Survival of the Thickest
Quinta Brunson – Abbott Elementary
Uzo Aduba – The Residence
Outstanding Drama Series
Bel‑Air (Peacock) — leading with seven nominations
Abbott Elementary, Reasonable Doubt, Ruth & Boaz — six nominations each
Forever — five nominations
Motion Picture Categories & Nominees
Outstanding Motion Picture
Sinners (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Highest 2 Lowest (A24)
One Of Them Days (Sony Pictures Releasing)
Sarah’s Oil (Amazon MGM Studios)
Wicked: For Good (Universal Pictures)
Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture
André Holland – Love, Brooklyn (Greenwich Entertainment)
Denzel Washington – Highest 2 Lowest (A24)
Michael B. Jordan – Sinners (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Nnamdi Asomugha – The Knife (Relatively Media)
Tyriq Withers – HIM (Monkeypaw Productions)
Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture
Cynthia Erivo – Wicked: For Good (Universal Pictures)
Danielle Deadwyler – 40 Acres (Magnolia Pictures)
Keke Palmer – One Of Them Days (Sony Pictures Releasing)
Kerry Washington – Shadow Force (Lionsgate)
Tessa Thompson – Hedda (Amazon MGM Studios)
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture
A$AP Rocky – Highest 2 Lowest (A24)
Damson Idris – F1 (Apple Original Films)
Delroy Lindo – Sinners (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Jeffrey Wright – Highest 2 Lowest (A24)
Miles Caton – Sinners (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture
Janelle James – One Of Them Days (Sony Pictures Releasing)
Jayme Lawson – Sinners (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Regina Hall – One Battle After Another (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Teyana Taylor – One Battle After Another (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Wunmi Mosaku – Sinners (Warner Bros. Pictures)
Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture
Sinners — Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, Miles Caton, Jack O’Connell, Wunmi Mosaku, Jayme Lawson, Omar Miller, Buddy Guy, Delroy Lindo, et al. (Warner Bros. Pictures)
One Of Them Days — Keke Palmer, SZA, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Lil Rel Howery, Katt Williams (Sony Pictures Releasing)
Wicked: For Good — Jonathan Bailey, Marissa Bode, Coleman Domingo, Cynthia Erivo, Jeff Goldblum, Ariana Grande, et al. (Universal Pictures)
A House of Dynamite — Idris Elba, Rebecca Ferguson, Gabriel Basso, Jared Harris, Tracy Letts, Anthony Ramos, Moses Ingram, Jonah Hauer‑King, Greta Lee, Jason Clarke (Netflix)
Outstanding Independent Motion Picture
40 Acres (Magnolia Pictures)
Love, Brooklyn (Greenwich Entertainment)
Magazine Dreams (Briarcliff Entertainment)
Opus (A24)
Unexpected Christmas (3 Diamonds Entertainment)
Outstanding International Motion Picture
40 Acres (Magnolia Pictures)
My Father’s Shadow (MUBI)
Souleymane’s Story (Kino Lorber)
The Fisherman (Luu Vision Media)
The Secret Agent (NEON)
Outstanding Animated Motion Picture
Elio (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
KPop Demon Hunters (Netflix)
Sneaks (Briarcliff Entertainment)
The Bad Guys 2 (DreamWorks Animation)
Zootopia 2 (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
Outstanding Character Voice‑Over Performance – Motion Picture
Anthony Mackie – Sneaks
Craig Robinson – The Bad Guys 2
Danielle Brooks – The Bad Guys 2
Lil Rel Howery – Dog Man
Quinta Brunson – Zootopia 2
Outstanding Short Form (Live Action)
ADO (Baylor University)
Before You Let Go (Find Your People Program)
Best Eyes (American Film Institute Conservatory)
Ella (Netflix)
Food for the Soul (P.A. Works)
Outstanding Short Form (Animated)
ASALI: Power of the Pollinators (Upenndo! Productions)
Black Man, Black Man (Chainwheel Productions)
Captain Zero: Into the Abyss Part II (Cutting Edge Animation)
Full Music & Recording Nominees
Outstanding New Artist
Elmiene – Useless Without You (Def Jam Recordings)
Lee Vasi – Love Me To Life (Capitol CMG/Leeda Music Group)
Madison McFerrin – Scorpio (MadMcFerrin Music LLC)
Monaleo – Who Did the Body? (Columbia Records)
Ravyn Lenae – Bicycle Race (Atlantic Records)
Outstanding Male Artist
Bryson Tiller – Solace & The Vices (RCA Records/TrapSoul)
Chris Brown – It Depends feat. Bryson Tiller (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
GIVĒON – Beloved (Epic Records)
Kendrick Lamar – luther (pgLang/Interscope)
Leon Thomas – MUTT Deluxe: Heel (EZMNY/Motown Records)
“Ride (Remix)” – Chance the Rapper feat. Do or Die & Twista
“Typa” – GloRilla
Literature Work Categories
Outstanding Literary Work — Fiction
Can’t Get Enough — Kennedy Ryan
Chronicles of Ori: An African Epic — Harmonia Rosales
Death of the Author — Nnedi Okorafor
Happy Land — Dolen Perkins‑Valdez
Harlem Rhapsody — Victoria Christopher Murray
Outstanding Literary Work — Non‑Fiction
A More Perfect Party… — Juanita Tolliver
Born in Flames — Bench Ansfield
From These Roots — Tamara Lanier
Hidden Hospitality… — Calvin Stovall Jr.
I Am Nobody’s Slave — Lee Hawkins
Outstanding Literary Work — Debut Author
American Soul: The Black History of Food… — Anela Malik
Red Clay — Charles B. Fancher
High Functioning… — Dr. Judith Joseph
A Sky Full of Love — Lorna Lewis
History Lessons — Zoe B. Wallbrook
Outstanding Literary Work — Biography/Autobiography
107 Days — Kamala Harris
The Look — Michelle Obama
Toni at Random — Dana A. Williams
Truly — Lionel Richie
Uncommon Favor… — Dawn Staley
Outstanding Literary Work — Instructional
American Soul… — Anela Malik
Braided Heritage… — Dr. Jessica Harris
We the Pizza… — Muhammad Abdul‑Hadi
Who Better Than You? — Will Packer
Wine Pairing for the People — Cha McCoy
Outstanding Literary Work — Poetry
Death of the First Idea — Rickey Laurentiis
Florida Water — Aja Monet
The Grace of Black Mothers — Martheaus Perkins
The Intentions of Thunder — Patricia Smith
We Look Better Alive — Ali Black
Outstanding Literary Work — Children
Black Boy, Rise — Brynne Barnes
Black Diamond Kings — Charles R. Smith Jr.
My Quiet Place — Monica Mikai
The History of We — Nikkolas Smith
Yvonne Clark and Her Engineering Spark — Allen R. Wells (ill. DeAndra Hodge)
Outstanding Literary Work — Youth/Teens
(S)Kin — Ibi Zoboi
Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Book of Anansi — Angie Thomas
The Scammer — Tiffany D. Jackson
The Story of My Anger — Jasminne Mendez
Through Our Teeth — Pamela N. Harris
Outstanding Literary Work — Graphic Novel
Creaky Acres — Calista Bril
Defiant: The Story of Robert Smalls — Rob Edwards
One Crazy Summer: The Graphic Novel — Rita Williams‑Garcia
Parable of the Talents (Graphic Novel) — Octavia E. Butler (adapted)
They Choose Violence — Sheldon Allen
Outstanding Literary Work — Journalism(New Category)
As Black New Yorkers Move Out, N.Y.C. Politics May Be Reshaped — Maya King
Audra McDonald Took The Stage and Rewrote The Rules — Adam Davenport
Black joy and boots: How line dancing is fanning cultural connection — Lisa Respers France
HBCUs Reel as Trump Cuts Black‑Focused Grants — Jasper Smith
On Borrowed Time — Anissa Durham
Digital Content Creator Categories
These categories honor creators across platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube:
Outstanding Digital Content Creator — Art/Comedy
Darren Watkins Jr. (@IShowSpeed)
Jordan Howlett (@jordan_the_stallion8)
Joshua Neal (@joshuadneal)
Lou Young (@Louuuyoung)
Tee Sanders (@teesanderscomedy)
Outstanding Digital Content Creator — Political/Culture
Elizabeth Booker Houston (@bookersquared)
Garrison Hayes (@garrisonh)
George Lee Jr. (@theconsciouslee)
Joshua Doss (@doss.discourse)
Lynae Vanee (@lynaevanee)
Outstanding Digital Content Creator — Fashion/Beauty
Allyiah Gainer (@allyiahsface)
De’arra Taylor (@dearra)
Eni Popoola (@enigivensunday)
Jackie Asamoah (@jackieaina)
Wisdom Kaye (@wisdm)
Outstanding Digital Content Creator — Gaming/Tech
Berlin Edmonds (@Berleezy)
Cory Kenshin (@CoryxKenshin)
Gerard Williams (@Hiphopgamer)
Jay Ann Lopez (@blackgirlgamers)
Khleo Thomas (@khleothomas)
Outstanding Digital Content Creator — Fitness/Wellness/Food
Alex Hill (@justaddhotsauce)
Jeanette Jenkins (@msjeanettejenkins)
Keith Lee (@Keith_Lee125)
Kimberly Villalobos (@KimmysKreations.1)
Massy Arias (@Massy.arias)
Public Voting & Ceremony
Fans can vote in select categories through February 7, 2026 at NAACPImageAwards.net. Winners will be announced during the live ceremony on February 28, 2026.
The 2026 NAACP Image Awards showcase the best in Black creativity and culture. From Sinners dominating film categories to TV hits like Bel‑Air, and music legends Kendrick Lamar and Teyana Taylor leading the recording scene, this year’s nominations reflect cultural impact, artistic excellence, and creative innovation across all entertainment fields.
Nigerian filmmaker Funke Akindele has officially become Africa’s highest-grossing filmmaker of all time, following the record-breaking box office performance of her latest film, Behind The Scenes.
According to figures released by distributors, the film has now crossed the ₦2+ billion mark in cinema revenue, making it the highest-grossing film in Nigerian and West African cinema history. The milestone places Akindele at the top of Africa’s box office rankings, ahead of all other filmmakers on the continent.
Behind The Scenes, released in December 2025, opened to strong audience turnout across Nigerian cinemas and select international markets. Within weeks of release, the film recorded multiple box office milestones, including:
One of the largest opening weekends in Nollywood history
Fastest Nollywood film to cross several revenue benchmarks
First Nigerian film to officially exceed ₦2 billion in total box office earnings
The figures were confirmed by FilmOne Entertainment and other industry tracking platforms monitoring cinema revenue in Nigeria.
This achievement builds on Akindele’s growing reputation as Nollywood’s most commercially successful filmmaker. In recent years, her projects have consistently dominated the box office, including:
A Tribe Called Judah, which became one of Nollywood’s earliest billion-naira films
Everybody Loves Jenifa, which previously held the record as Nigeria’s highest-grossing local film
With Behind The Scenes surpassing all previous records, Akindele now holds the top three highest-earning Nollywood films in cinema history.
Akindele’s achievement is also being viewed as a major milestone for African cinema, demonstrating that locally produced African films can achieve large-scale commercial success without relying on foreign studios.
By becoming Africa’s highest-grossing filmmaker, Funke Akindele has further established her status as one of the most influential figures in the Nigerian film industry.
Electronic Arts has officially shut down the servers for Anthem, bringing the troubled BioWare title to a permanent end. As of today, January 12, 2026, the game is no longer playable in any form.
Originally released on February 22, 2019, Anthem was designed as an always-online live-service game, meaning all gameplay systems, missions, and progression were hosted on EA’s servers. With those servers now offline, the game has effectively ceased to exist.
Unlike traditional single-player games, Anthem never offered an offline mode. Even solo missions required a constant internet connection and server authentication. As a result, once EA pulled the plug, players lost access to all content, including the main story, co-op missions, and endgame activities.
EA had already removed Anthem from digital storefronts and EA Play months before the shutdown, while in-game purchases were disabled well in advance.
Developed by BioWare, the studio behind Mass Effect and Dragon Age, Anthem launched with high expectations. Its iron-man-style flight mechanics, cooperative gameplay, and shared open world were praised early on.
In 2021, EA officially cancelled Anthem NEXT, a planned overhaul that was meant to revive the game. From that point on, Anthem was kept online in a maintenance-only state until today’s shutdown.
The closure has once again sparked discussions around digital ownership and live-service games, where access to a purchased title depends entirely on publisher-controlled servers.
Seven years after its release, Anthem exits quietly not with a final update or farewell event, but with servers simply going dark.
