Author: Stephen Ibrahim

Wuthering Heights Becomes an Unexpected Box Office Hit in Early 2026

The new film adaptation of Wuthering Heights has turned into one of the early box office surprises of 2026. Directed by Emerald Fennell, the movie was released by Warner Bros. on February 13, 2026, just before Valentine’s Day weekend. Since then, the gothic romance has earned close to 200 million dollars worldwide, despite having a production budget of about 80 million dollars.

The film stars Margot Robbie as Catherine Earnshaw and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliff. Their performances helped attract strong interest from audiences curious to see a new take on the famous love story. The movie opened strongly during the Presidents’ Day weekend period in the United States, earning around 83 million dollars globally in its first extended weekend. About 37 to 40 million dollars came from the domestic market, while roughly 42 to 45 million dollars came from international territories.

The opening made it the biggest worldwide launch of the year at the time and continued a streak of strong releases for Warner Bros. Within its first week in theaters, the film had already crossed the 100 million dollar mark worldwide, meaning it recovered its production budget very quickly. This happened even though the movie faced mixed reviews and debate before release over its casting choices, costume design, and the more mature tone used in this version of the story.

International markets have played a major role in the film’s success. Around 63 percent of its total earnings have come from outside the United States. The United Kingdom has been one of the strongest markets, bringing in more than 22 million dollars. Other strong territories include Italy and Australia, where audiences responded well to the dramatic romance and visual style of the film.

By the end of February, the film had already passed 150 million dollars globally. As of early March, it is approaching or crossing the 200 million dollar mark. In the United States and Canada, the film has earned around 74 to 75 million dollars so far, placing it among the highest earning films of the year.

The second weekend saw a noticeable drop at the domestic box office. The film moved to second place after the release of GOAT, earning about 14.2 million dollars that weekend. Even with that decline, the movie continued performing well internationally and maintained steady ticket sales.

With a production cost of around 80 million dollars and additional marketing expenses, the film is already considered profitable. Its performance also places Emerald Fennell among the highest grossing female directors for a single film in recent years.

The success of this adaptation shows that audiences are still interested in dramatic stories aimed at adults, even at a time when family films and large franchise movies dominate the box office. As new releases such as Hoppers arrive in theaters, Wuthering Heights continues its steady run and stands as one of the early theatrical success stories of 2026.

Written by Amara Awana

MultiChoice Group, Africa’s leading pay-TV company, now owned by the French media conglomerate Canal+, has officially confirmed that its streaming service Showmax will be phased out.

The announcement was made on March 5, 2026, following a comprehensive review by the Showmax board of the platform’s performance and its long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape.

According to the companies, the primary reason for the decision is financial. Despite years of heavy investment, including a major relaunch in 2024 that introduced new content offerings, improved user interfaces, and partnerships with both local and international studios, Showmax struggled to generate consistent profits.

The global streaming market has also become more competitive. International platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video continue to dominate the space, attracting massive audiences and securing significant shares of subscription and advertising revenue.

Another major challenge has been infrastructure. In several parts of Africa, inconsistent or limited internet connectivity still restricts the widespread adoption of streaming services, limiting the growth potential of platforms like Showmax.

While confirming the shutdown, MultiChoice and Canal+ emphasized that the decision is part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening the company’s financial stability and long-term sustainability.

They also reassured employees and stakeholders that the closure will not result in job losses. Staff members affected by the shutdown will be offered alternative roles or projects within the company, reflecting a commitment to internal redeployment and employee retention.

For current subscribers, the immediate impact will be minimal. Showmax will continue operating normally for now, with users still able to stream content without interruption.

Although the company has not yet announced a final shutdown date, it said updates regarding subscription status, possible refunds, and timelines will be communicated directly to users through the app and email notifications.

Subscribers have been advised to monitor these channels for official instructions as the transition process unfolds.

Launched in 2015, Showmax quickly built a reputation for offering a diverse library of content. The platform featured a mix of African originals, international films and series, reality programming, and Nollywood titles.

Over the years, Showmax positioned itself as a homegrown alternative in a streaming market largely dominated by global platforms. It also provided an important distribution platform for African creators, helping bring local stories to audiences across the continent.

MultiChoice owner Canal+ to shut down Showmax streaming service, after 11 years pic.twitter.com/FH5QDhNutP

— Streamdorm | Film & TV News (@Streamdorm_) March 5, 2026

Nigerian cinema will once again take center stage in the United States as the Nollywood in Hollywood showcase returns to Los Angeles starting today, March 6 and 7, 2026, with three films selected for this year’s program: Stitches, When Nigeria Happens, and To Adaego With Love.

The announcement was made during a special screening of My Father’s Shadow at the USC Norris Theatre at the University of Southern California. The event gathered filmmakers, industry professionals, and members of the Nigerian diaspora to preview the upcoming showcase.

Founded in 2018 by Ose Oyamendan, Nollywood in Hollywood was created to introduce Nigerian films to American audiences while encouraging dialogue between filmmakers from both industries.

The 2026 Film Lineup

Stitches — March 6

The showcase will open with Stitches, directed by Shirley Frimpong-Manso. The film will premiere on March 6 at the Aero Theatre in Santa Monica.

The romantic drama follows a talented fashion designer from a modest background whose sudden entry into high society exposes her to complicated relationships and long-hidden secrets.

When Nigeria Happens — March 7 (Afternoon)

On March 7, the afternoon screening will feature When Nigeria Happens, directed by Ema Edosio-Deelen, at the Norris Cinema Theatre.

Blending drama with contemporary dance, the film explores the lives of young performers navigating ambition, love, and social expectations in Lagos. Through movement and storytelling, it captures the resilience and creative spirit of a new generation of artists.

To Adaego With Love — March 7 (Evening)

The showcase will close with To Adaego With Love, directed by Nwamaka Chikezie.

Set in post-conflict Nigeria, the film tells the story of an unlikely relationship between a Northern soldier and an Igbo schoolteacher. The narrative explores themes of reconciliation, identity, and the emotional aftermath of conflict.

Since its launch, Nollywood in Hollywood has grown into an important platform for Nigerian filmmakers seeking international exposure. The event includes film screenings, panel discussions, and networking opportunities designed to connect African creatives with industry professionals in the United States.

The 2026 edition is presented in collaboration with American Cinematheque, the USC School of Cinematic Arts, and O2A Media.

By showcasing diverse stories from across Nigeria, the program continues to highlight the evolving voice of Nollywood and its growing influence on the global film landscape.

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Written by Amara Awana

There’s something about a good romance movie that keeps people coming back for more. Maybe it’s the excitement of watching two people slowly fall for each other, or the emotional moments that remind us how complicated love can be. Romance films also have a way of pulling you into their world, whether it’s through beautiful locations, unforgettable characters, or stories that feel surprisingly real.

One of the reasons people love watching romance movies on Netflix is the variety. Some stories are light and funny, perfect for when you want to relax and laugh. Others are emotional and dramatic, the kind that stay on your mind long after the movie ends. No matter what kind of mood you’re in, there’s usually a romance film that fits.

Here are five romance movies you should definitely check out.

Purple Hearts

This movie follows a struggling musician who agrees to marry a U.S. Marine for practical reasons. The arrangement is supposed to be simple and temporary, but things start to change as they spend more time together. What begins as a fake marriage slowly turns into something deeper and more complicated.

The movie stands out because of its emotional storytelling and strong chemistry between the two leads. The music also plays a big role in the story, adding another layer of feeling to the film. It’s the kind of romance that mixes love with real-life struggles, which makes the story feel more grounded and relatable.

Love at First Sight

This story begins with two strangers who meet on a flight from New York to London. They connect almost instantly, sharing conversations and moments that make it feel like they’ve known each other much longer than a few hours.

However, once they land, airport chaos separates them and they lose contact. The rest of the movie explores how fate, coincidence, and timing keep bringing their lives back into alignment. It’s a romantic story that focuses on the idea that sometimes the right person can appear when you least expect it.

My Oxford Year

In this story, an ambitious American student moves to Oxford to pursue her academic dreams. She arrives with a clear plan for her future and romance is definitely not part of it.

But life rarely follows a perfect plan. While studying in one of the most historic universities in the world, she meets a local man who slowly changes her perspective on love, life, and what truly matters. The movie balances romance with themes about ambition, personal growth, and the difficult choices people sometimes have to make.

La Dolce Villa

This film takes viewers to the beautiful landscapes of Italy. An American widower travels there to stop his daughter from making what he believes is a reckless decision, buying an old villa that needs a lot of work.

Instead of simply fixing the problem and leaving, he finds himself slowly drawn into the life of the small town. Along the way, he develops an unexpected connection with the town’s mayor. Between the scenic views, family tension, and charming romance, the movie delivers a warm and feel good story.

A Merry Little Ex-Mas

Holiday romance movies always have a special kind of charm, and this one focuses on a couple who once loved each other but eventually went their separate ways. When Christmas brings them back together, they are forced to confront the past and the reasons their relationship fell apart.

As they spend time together again, old emotions begin to surface. The movie explores whether people can truly change and if love deserves another chance after everything that has happened. It’s a story about forgiveness, growth, and the complicated nature of long-term relationships.

Why We Keep Watching Romance Movies

Romance movies continue to be popular because they deal with emotions that everyone understands. Love, heartbreak, hope, and connection are universal experiences, and these films show how different relationships can unfold in different ways.

Sometimes people watch romance movies because they want something comforting and familiar. Other times they want a story that makes them think about their own relationships and choices. Either way, romance films have a way of reminding viewers that love can be messy, unpredictable, and powerful at the same time.

And that is exactly why people keep coming back to them. No matter how many romance movies we watch, there is always another story waiting to make us laugh, cry, or believe in love just a little bit more.

Written by Amara Awana

Top African music podcast Afrobeats Intelligence has returned for its fifth season, bringing a fresh lineup of conversations with some of the most important voices shaping the Afrobeats industry today.

Hosted by Nigerian music journalist and critic Joey Akan, the new season features interviews with artists and industry figures including Shallipopi, Wale, Sarz, Ladipoe, Kcee, Joshua Baraka, BOJ, Dr. Sid, Magixx, Wale Davies (Tec of Show Dem Camp), Winny, Aniko, Alhaji Popping, and Jyde Ajala, among others.

Season Five is presented by OkayAfrica and officially sponsored by Martell.

Since its launch, Afrobeats Intelligence has become known for its in-depth conversations about the people, structures, and realities behind Africa’s rapidly growing music industry. The podcast often explores the politics of music, the business side of the industry, and the personal journeys of artists and executives navigating global success.

Speaking about the new season, Joey Akan said the upcoming episodes will expand the scope of the discussions. 

According to him, the previous season featured conversations with key artists, executives, and cultural figures explaining how the Afrobeats ecosystem works. Season Five, he said, will go further by offering deeper insights into the people shaping African music’s future and global impact.

The podcast continues its collaboration with OkayAfrica, which first partnered with the show during its fourth season. 

Isha Sesay, CEO of Areya Media, the parent company of OkayAfrica has said the organization is proud to continue supporting the platform and its storytelling around African music and culture.

Season Five of Afrobeats Intelligence is currently streaming on YouTube and across major podcast platforms.

On March 3, 2026, British grime artist Ghetts was sentenced to 12 years in prison at the Old Bailey after pleading guilty to causing death by dangerous driving.

The 41-year-old artist, whose real name is Justin Clarke-Samuel, was convicted following a fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of 20-year-old student Yubin Tamang.

The court heard that in the early hours of October 18, 2025, Clarke-Samuel was driving his BMW through Ilford, northeast London, after consuming alcohol. CCTV footage presented during proceedings showed him speeding through residential streets, running red lights, and at times driving on the wrong side of the road. Prosecutors said he reached speeds close to 70mph in a 30mph zone and was over the legal alcohol limit.

That same night, Yubin Tamang was crossing the road when he was struck. Tamang had moved from Nepal to the United Kingdom to pursue higher education and build a future for himself. He was pronounced dead after suffering severe injuries.

The court was told that Clarke-Samuel did not stop at the scene. Instead, he drove away. He later pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and a separate charge of dangerous driving. He appeared for sentencing via video link from prison.

In delivering the sentence, the judge described the driving as reckless and wholly unacceptable, noting that a young life had been lost. While his guilty plea was taken into consideration, the seriousness of the offence warranted a substantial custodial sentence. In addition to the 12-year prison term, Clarke-Samuel was banned from driving for 17 years.

Ghetts rose to prominence in the 2000s as one of the defining voices of UK grime. Known for his sharp lyricism and introspective storytelling, he earned critical acclaim, including nominations for the Mercury Prize, and collaborated with artists such as Ed Sheeran. More recently, he expanded into acting, appearing in the Netflix series Supacell.

For many fans, the sentencing marks a devastating fall for an artist whose music often explored themes of growth, accountability, and personal evolution.

Beyond reputation and career, however, the case centres on the irreversible loss of a young man. Yubin Tamang had travelled thousands of miles in pursuit of education and opportunity. His family now faces a grief that no prison sentence can undo.

One decision in the early hours of that October morning changed multiple lives permanently. Clarke-Samuel will spend years behind bars. Yubin Tamang’s family will live with the loss forever.

Written by Favour Awana

As International Women’s Day approaches, a global moment dedicated to celebrating women’s achievements and advancing gender equality, attention turns to the progress women have made and the work still ahead. 

March 8, 2026, many women are taking a closer look at their goals and asking what real progress looks like this year. In that spirit, Adeife Adeoye, founder of Remote WorkHER, is hosting a free virtual masterclass on Career Positioning and Branding on March 7, 2026.

This is designed to give women clear, practical strategies to position themselves better in the job market, especially in remote and digital spaces. Adeife will be sharing the steps she used to build her personal brand and grow a thriving business within a few years.

The focus is direct. How to stand out in a crowded market. How to attract stronger opportunities. How to increase income intentionally in 2026 instead of waiting to be noticed.

Remote WorkHER has built a strong community for women interested in remote work, freelancing, and career growth. It is known for supporting women who want flexibility and financial independence but need structure, clarity, and positioning to get there. This masterclass centers on branding, visibility, and career alignment. These are not abstract ideas. They influence who hires you and how much you are paid.

There is growing interest online, with many women describing the session as timely and necessary. Career positioning is not optional in today’s market. Skill without visibility often leads to stagnation.

The masterclass is free, but registration is required. To secure a spot, interested participants can visit Instagram and check Remote WorkHER for the registration link in their bio or recent posts.

International Women’s Day can be more than a celebration. It can be a decision point. This session appears structured for women  who don’t want motivation alone, they want growth and this masterclass is promising strategies to achieve that.

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Written by Favour Awana

Nigeria’s goalkeeping hierarchy has officially changed.

Head coach Eric Chelle has named Francis Uzoho as the new first-choice goalkeeper of the Nigeria national football team, a decisive move that reshapes competition in one of the team’s most scrutinized positions.

The decision comes at a crucial moment for the Super Eagles as preparations intensify for upcoming international fixtures. 

The 27-year-old has spent years in the national team setup, experiencing both the highs of major tournaments and the lows of public criticism.

While he lost his starting role in recent cycles, Chelle’s latest decision suggests renewed confidence in his experience, leadership, and understanding of the team’s defensive structure.

The biggest casualty of the shake-up is Stanley Nwabali, who had in recent times established himself as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the last international cycle and impressed many fans at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nwabali is currently without a club following his departure from South African side Chippa United. For international managers, club inactivity is a major red flag; especially for goalkeepers, whose sharpness relies heavily on consistent match action.

In elite football, form is temporary but match fitness is essential. Chelle’s decision appears rooted in that practical reality.

Meanwhile, Maduka Okoye remains on the fringes of the current setup. Once projected as Nigeria’s long-term solution in goal, Okoye’s relationship with the national team has been turbulent in recent years.

With Uzoho reinstated and Chelle making a clear statement about availability and readiness, Okoye’s immediate path back to the starting XI appears uncertain.

Despite Uzoho’s reinstatement, the goalkeeper position is far from sealed for the long term. The potential integration of Arthur Okonkwo, who is exploring his international future with Nigeria, could introduce fresh competition once eligibility matters are finalized.

After 14 years away from the spotlight of a major comedy special, veteran American comedian Bruce Bruce has returned with his first-ever Netflix special, I Ain’t Playin’. Filmed live at the Old Vic Theater in Chicago, this special marks a major milestone in Bruce Bruce’s career, showcasing the larger-than-life personality and distinctive humor that have made him a favorite of comedy fans for decades.

Known for his expressive storytelling, infectious energy, and ability to make audiences laugh while connecting to real-life experiences, Bruce Bruce proves once again why he has remained relevant in a constantly evolving comedy landscape.

In I Ain’t Playin’, Bruce tackles a wide range of topics, blending personal topics with sharp observations about the world around him. He talks about family life, fame, and the challenges that come with living across different generations. He explores the humorous side of marriage, relationships, and even intimate matters, all delivered with his signature boldness and charm.

Unlike scripted performances, his comedy feels genuine and spontaneous, creating a sense of intimacy with the audience. Fans who have followed his work know that Bruce Bruce doesn’t shy away from topics that make people think, laugh, all at the same time.

One of the most compelling aspects of this special is how Bruce balances humor with storytelling. While he is undeniably funny, there is also a rhythm and depth to his performance that draws viewers in. His personal stories are relatable, and his takes on generational gaps and family dynamics resonate with audiences from different backgrounds.

Bruce’s humor often highlights the absurdities of everyday life, but he delivers it in a way that feels light-hearted rather than judgmental. This combination of relatability and larger-than-life personality is what sets him apart from many other comedians today.

Just as Nollywood stars and African comedians have found international audiences through streaming, Bruce Bruce’s special demonstrates how comedians from the United States can reach viewers around the world without relying solely on traditional television or live tours. For fans in Nigeria and other parts of the world, the special offers an opportunity to experience a live comedy performance with the convenience of streaming at home. This access helps connect audiences to global humor trends while also inspiring local content creators to explore new ways to reach viewers.

Bruce Bruce has long been celebrated for his ability to blend comedy with authenticity. In this special, that skill is on full display. His stories are not only entertaining but also reflect his unique perspective on life, love, and the challenges of growing older in the public eye. He has always had a talent for turning everyday situations into moments of laughter, and I Ain’t Playin’ is no exception.   

For longtime fans, it’s a nostalgic return to the humor they fell in love with; for new viewers, it’s an introduction to a comedian whose style is unmistakable.

This special is also notable for its production quality. Filmed in Chicago, the live audience adds an extra layer of energy, with their reactions enhancing the experience and making it feel like you are part of the performance. The setting at the Old Vic Theater provides a classic stage environment, emphasizing the intimacy and immediacy of stand-up comedy while capturing Bruce Bruce’s dynamic presence.

Ultimately, I Ain’t Playin’ is more than just a comedy special, it is a statement from a performer who has navigated the highs and lows of a long career while staying true to himself. Bruce Bruce’s humor is universal, but it also carries the personal imprint of his experiences, making the special both entertaining and meaningful.

 Are you planning to watch it tonight? Do you enjoy comedy that is raw, real, and personal like Bruce Bruce’s, or do you prefer performances that are more structured and story-driven? Either way, I Ain’t Playin’ is a must-see for anyone who appreciates a comedian who can make you laugh while connecting with the realities of life.

Written by Favour Awana

The 2026 edition of the SiGMA Africa Awards brought together key players in gaming, fintech, digital innovation, and online entertainment for a night of recognition in Cape Town, South Africa. Held on March 3 as part of the wider SiGMA Africa Summit, the ceremony honoured companies and individuals shaping Africa’s fast-growing iGaming ecosystem.

From platform providers to payment solutions and content creators, the awards reflect the scale and increasing sophistication of the continent’s digital gaming industry.

The SiGMA Africa Awards are organised under the global SiGMA World event series, which hosts summits across multiple regions focused on iGaming, emerging technology, blockchain, and digital payments.

The Africa edition specifically spotlights the continent’s expanding market, recognising excellence across categories such as: Casino and sportsbook operators, Game and slot providers, Payment and KYC solutions, Marketing innovation, Workplace culture, Influencers and streamers.

Winners are selected through a combination of industry judging panels and, in some categories, public voting. The awards ceremony forms part of a multi-day summit featuring keynote sessions, exhibitions, networking events, and investor meetings.

One of the standout moments of the night was the announcement of Shankcomics as Best Streamer 2026.

The award recognises excellence in live streaming, audience engagement, and overall impact within the gaming and digital entertainment ecosystem. 

Full Winners List – SiGMA Africa Awards 2026

Below is the complete list of winners announced at the ceremony:

Emerging Markets Payment Solution 2026 — Bitlipa

Best Affiliate Program 2026 — Linebet Partners

Best Casino Provider 2026 — Pragmatic Play

Crash Game Newcomer 2026 — Skypilot by Aardvark

Best KYC Solution 2026 — Sumsub

Best Casino Operator 2026 — Melbet

Best Virtual Sports Provider 2026 — Kiron Interactive

Slot Game Newcomer 2026 — Mineslot by Inoutgames

Best Innovation in Sports Betting 2026 — Digitain

Best Game Provider 2026 — EGT Digital

Best On Mobile 2026 — 1xBet

Best Online Sportsbook Provider 2026 — BetConstruct AI

Industry Rising Star 2026 — Veligames by Velitech

Best Slot Game Provider 2026 — Amusnet

Most Played Game 2026 — Avion Supersonic by Lambda Gaming

Best Marketing Campaign 2026 — Partnerships With Global Sports Giants by Spribe

Best Streamer 2026 — Shankcomics

Best Sportsbook Operator 2026 — 22Bet

Live Casino Provider Rising Star 2026 — Choice Gaming

Best Workplace 2026 — Alea

Best Platform 2026 — SoftSwiss

Women in Gaming 2026 — Valentina Bagniya

Best Testing Lab Innovation 2026 — Global Lab

Game Innovation Award 2026 — Arcade Heist Hit&Win by Golden Race

Best Influencer 2026 — Dr Thembi Shilenge