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.
Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, have taken formal legal action against Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, Lagos, alleging medical negligence and professional impropriety in connection with the tragic death of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi Adichie-Esege.
On January 10, 2026, a detailed legal notice was served to Euracare Hospital through solicitors from the law firm Pinheiro LP, led by Professor Kemi Pinheiro, SAN. The notice accuses the hospital, including an attending anaesthesiologist and other medical staff of breaching the duty of care owed to the couple’s son, who died in the early hours of January 7, 2026 after a series of medical procedures.
According to the filing, Nkanu was referred to Euracare on January 6, 2026 from Atlantis Pediatric Hospital for a sequence of diagnostic and preparatory procedures ahead of an emergency medical evacuation to a specialist team in the United States.
Allegations of Negligence
The legal notice outlines multiple alleged lapses in care, including:
Improper sedation practices, including concerns about propofol dosing in a critically ill toddler.
Inadequate monitoring during and after sedation.
Lack of supplemental oxygen and continuous physiological monitoring while the child was being moved between hospital departments.
Insufficient medical supervision during transfers.
Delayed recognition and response to complications.
Apparent shortages of basic emergency/resuscitation equipment and inadequate adherence to paediatric safety protocols.
These allegations together form the basis of a claim that the hospital and its medical personnel failed to meet accepted standards of care, ultimately contributing to the child’s death.
The legal notice gives Euracare seven days to provide certified copies of all medical records related to Nkanu’s care.
The notice also formally instructs the hospital to preserve all physical and electronic evidence, warning that any destruction, tampering, or alteration could be treated as obstruction of justice and invite further legal consequences.
Euracare Hospital has expressed sympathy for the family’s loss but has denied wrongdoing, stating that the child was critically ill upon arrival and that care provided complied with accepted clinical standards. The hospital also announced an internal investigation into the incident.
In response to public concern, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered an independent state-level probe into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. The Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) and other regulatory bodies are expected to review the case, including the hospital’s clinical protocols and patient-safety practices.
Local reports also suggest that the anaesthesiologist involved has been suspended pending ongoing investigations.
The 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) took place on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Eko Hotels & Suites, Lagos, drawing artists and industry leaders from across the continent for one of African music’s most important nights.
Held under the theme “Unstoppable Africa,” the ceremony celebrated commercial success, cultural impact, regional diversity, and artistic excellence. The event was hosted by Falz and Liliane Maroune and broadcast live on DStv, GOtv, and digital platforms, concluding a week-long AFRIMA programme in Lagos.
Below is the full breakdown of major categories, including WINNERS and OFFICIAL NOMINEES as released by AFRIMA ahead of the awards.
ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
Winner
Rema (Nigeria)
Nominees
Burna Boy (Nigeria)
Davido (Nigeria)
Wizkid (Nigeria)
Black Sherif (Ghana)
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
Winner
Burna Boy – No Sign of Weakness
Nominees
Rema – HEIS
Davido – Timeless
Black Sherif – The Villain I Never Was
Ayra Starr – The Year I Turned 21
SONG OF THE YEAR
Winner
Shallipopi – “Laho”
Nominees
Tyla – “Water”
Asake – “Lonely at the Top”
Rema – “Trouble Maker”
Black Sherif – “Oil in My Head”
BEST MALE ARTISTE – WESTERN AFRICA
Winner
Rema (Nigeria)
Nominees
Burna Boy (Nigeria)
Davido (Nigeria)
Wizkid (Nigeria)
Black Sherif (Ghana)
BEST FEMALE ARTISTE – WESTERN AFRICA
Winner
Wendy Shay (Ghana)
Nominees
Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
Yemi Alade (Nigeria)
Simi (Nigeria)
Gyakie (Ghana)
BEST MALE ARTISTE – EASTERN AFRICA
Winner
Jux (Tanzania)
Nominees
Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
Harmonize (Tanzania)
Alikiba (Tanzania)
Bien (Kenya)
BEST FEMALE ARTISTE – EASTERN AFRICA
Winner
Denise (Madagascar)
Nominees
Zuchu (Tanzania)
Nandy (Tanzania)
Azawi (Uganda)
Nikita Kering (Kenya)
BEST MALE ARTISTE – CENTRAL AFRICA
Winner
Singuila (Congo)
Nominees
Fally Ipupa (DR Congo)
Innoss’B (DR Congo)
Gaz Mawete (DR Congo)
Dadju (DR Congo)
BEST FEMALE ARTISTE – CENTRAL AFRICA
Winner
Cindy Le Coeur (DR Congo)
Nominees
Rosny Kayiba (DR Congo)
Shan’L (Gabon)
Queen Etémé (Cameroon)
Mel B Akwen (Cameroon)
MOST PROMISING ARTISTE OF THE YEAR
Winner
Qing Madi (Nigeria)
Nominees
Victony (Nigeria)
Seyi Vibez (Nigeria)
Tyla (South Africa)
Llona (Nigeria)
AFRICAN FANS’ FAVOURITE ARTISTE
Winner
Chella (Nigeria)
Nominees
Rema
Burna Boy
Davido
Wizkid
BEST AFRICAN VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Winner
Black Sherif – “Rebel”
Nominees
Rema – “Trouble Maker”
Burna Boy – “City Boys”
Ayra Starr – “Commas”
Asake – “Yoga”
BEST AFRICAN DANCE / CHOREOGRAPHY
Winner
Weeha – “Dimama” (Ethiopia)
Nominees
Tyla – “Water”
Diamond Platnumz – “Achii”
Kizz Daniel – “Twe Twe”
CKay – “Love Nwantiti”
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
Winner
Bakhaw Dioum (Senegal) – “Choix”
Nominees
Asa (Nigeria)
Johnny Drille (Nigeria)
A-Reece (South Africa)
Sauti Sol (Kenya)
BEST SOUNDTRACK (FILM / SERIES / DOCUMENTARY)
Winner
Yemi Alade – “You Are” (Iyanu)
Nominees
Adekunle Gold – Aníkúlápó
CKay – Shanty Town
Amaarae – The Origin
Teni – Breaded Life
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Recipients
Kenny Ogungbe
Dayo “D1” Adeneye
Honoured for decades of contribution to African music development, media, and artist growth.
The 83rd Golden Globe Awards officially kicked off the 2026 awards season on January 11, celebrating the most outstanding achievements in film, television, and podcasts from 2025.
Held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills and hosted by comedian Nikki Glaser, the ceremony delivered a night of major wins, emotional speeches, and early Oscar momentum for several projects. By the end of the night, Hamnet, One Battle After Another, The Pitt, The Studio, and Adolescence emerged as the biggest winners.
Here’s a full breakdown of the night’s highlights and winners.
Film Categories:
Hamnet and One Battle After Another Lead
Best Motion Picture
Best Motion Picture – Drama: Hamnet
Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy: One Battle After Another
Hamnet secured the night’s most prestigious drama prize, while Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another dominated the comedy/musical side, setting itself up as a strong awards-season contender.
Acting Winners – Film
Best Actor – Drama: Wagner Moura (The Secret Agent)
Best Actress – Drama: Jessie Buckley (Hamnet)
Best Actor – Musical or Comedy: Timothée Chalamet (Marty Supreme)
Best Actress – Musical or Comedy: Rose Byrne (If I Had Legs I’d Kick You)
Best Supporting Actor: Stellan Skarsgård (Sentimental Value)
Best Supporting Actress: Teyana Taylor (One Battle After Another)
Jessie Buckley’s win for Hamnet was one of the night’s most celebrated moments, while Timothée Chalamet’s victory further strengthened his position in the awards race.
Creative Awards – Film
Best Director: Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another)
Best Screenplay: Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another)
Best Original Score: Ludwig Göransson (Sinners)
Best Original Song: “Golden” – KPop Demon Hunters
Paul Thomas Anderson walked away with multiple wins, making One Battle After Another the most decorated film of the night.
Other Film Honors
Best Animated Feature: KPop Demon Hunters
Best Non-English Language Film: The Secret Agent
Cinematic & Box Office Achievement: Sinners
Television Categories:
The Pitt, The Studio and Adolescence Shine
Best TV Series
Best Drama Series: The Pitt
Best Musical or Comedy Series: The Studio
Best Limited Series / Anthology / TV Movie: Adolescence
Acting Winners – Television
Best Actor – TV Drama: Noah Wyle (The Pitt)
Best Actress – TV Drama: Rhea Seehorn (Pluribus)
Best Actor – TV Musical or Comedy: Seth Rogen (The Studio)
Best Actress – TV Musical or Comedy: Jean Smart (Hacks)
Best Actor – Limited Series / TV Movie: Stephen Graham (Adolescence)
Best Actress – Limited Series / TV Movie: Michelle Williams (Dying for Sex)
Best Supporting Actor – TV: Owen Cooper (Adolescence)
Best Supporting Actress – TV: Erin Doherty (Adolescence)
Adolescence was the standout in limited series categories, earning multiple acting awards and cementing its critical acclaim.
Podcast and Stand-Up Comedy
Best Podcast: Good Hang with Amy Poehler
Best Stand-Up Comedy Performance: Ricky Gervais (Mortality)
Special Honors
Cecil B. DeMille Award (Lifetime Achievement): Helen Mirren
Carol Burnett Award: Sarah Jessica Parker
The 2026 Golden Globes offered a clear picture of the projects likely to dominate the rest of awards season. One Battle After Another emerged as the night’s biggest film winner, while Hamnet proved its emotional and critical strength in the drama category.
On television, The Pitt, The Studio, and Adolescence separated themselves from the pack, with Adolescence especially sweeping multiple performance awards.
As Hollywood moves closer to the Oscars, SAG Awards, and Emmys, the Golden Globes have once again set the tone for what stories and performances will define the year.
Zoe Saldaña has officially made box office history.
As of January 2026, the Hollywood star has become the highest-grossing actor of all time worldwide, overtaking Scarlett Johansson after the massive global success of Avatar: Fire and Ash.
The milestone was sealed following the film’s extraordinary theatrical run, which has now grossed over $1.2 billion globally since its release in late 2025. With that performance added to her résumé, Saldaña’s cumulative box office total now stands at over $15.4 billion, narrowly surpassing Johansson’s long-held record.
A Career Built on Blockbuster Franchises
Saldaña’s box office dominance is the result of one of the most strategically powerful filmographies in modern cinema. She is the only actor to star in multiple billion-dollar franchises simultaneously, playing key roles in:
Avatar franchise (Neytiri)
Avengers and the wider MCU (Gamora)
Guardians of the Galaxy
Star Trek reboot series
With Avatar: Fire and Ash marking another billion-dollar chapter in James Cameron’s sci-fi universe, Saldaña’s position at the top of the global box office rankings is now firmly cemented.
Scarlett Johansson previously held the record with an estimated $15.4 billion in global box office earnings, driven largely by her run as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Saldaña’s achievement is particularly notable given that her success spans multiple franchises across different studios, rather than being tied to a single cinematic universe.
Beyond the numbers, Saldaña’s record reflects a broader shift in Hollywood, where long-running franchises and global audiences now define box office power. Her ability to anchor some of the biggest films ever made has placed her in a league of her own.
With future Avatar installments already planned, industry analysts believe her lead at the top could continue to grow.
