Category: Entertainment

Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke’s longtime dog, Ivan, is reportedly facing a serious health crisis and needs urgent heart surgery to survive. According to multiple entertainment news reports, the procedure could cost about $10,000, and a second follow-up operation might add another $6,000 to $8,000 in veterinary expenses. 

The surgery is described as life-saving for the dog, who is suffering from heart disease, a condition that, without treatment, could be fatal. 

Despite Ivan’s urgent medical needs, Rourke reportedly does not have sufficient funds to pay for the expensive surgeries and has been dealing with broader financial challenges. The actor has recently made headlines for facing eviction over unpaid rent in Los Angeles, which has added to his current struggles. 

Rourke and Ivan were seen checking into a hotel recently, underscoring the instability in his situation while he searches for work opportunities. 

In a twist to the story, fans and supporters raised more than $100,000 via a GoFundMe campaign meant to help Rourke with expenses, including potentially his housing and medical needs. However, Rourke publicly denounced the fundraiser, calling it “embarrassing” and insisting he did not want charity. 

He has since stated that donations will be refunded in full to contributors and, according to his manager, the funds were returned as of mid-January 2026. 

Rourke’s representative has indicated that he is “resilient” and focused on making the right career and personal choices, but ultimately it’s up to him how he responds to the mounting financial pressure. 

For fans and followers of the actor, this news highlights a deeply personal struggle behind the headlines and a beloved pet in need of care and a longtime movie star grappling with real-world financial strain.

Amazon Prime Video’s highly anticipated God of War live-action adaptation is beginning to take clear shape, with two major casting confirmations now official.

The series has cast Ryan Hurst as the iconic Spartan warrior Kratos, while Teresa Palmer has been confirmed to portray Sif, the Norse goddess and wife of Thor.

The announcements mark a significant step forward for one of the most ambitious video game adaptations currently in development.

Confirmed Cast Members

Ryan Hurst as Kratos

Ryan Hurst (Sons of Anarchy, The Walking Dead) will take on the role of Kratos, the Ghost of Sparta.

Hurst is no stranger to the God of War universe, having previously voiced Thor in God of War Ragnarök. His casting suggests a deliberate effort by Amazon and Sony to preserve the emotional and tonal identity that defines the franchise.

In the series, Kratos is expected to be portrayed during his Norse era, a version of the character shaped by loss, restraint, and fatherhood rather than unchecked rage.

Teresa Palmer as Sif

Teresa Palmer has officially been cast as Sif, a prominent Norse goddess and the wife of Thor.

In Norse mythology and in the God of War games; Sif is associated with strength, dignity, and resilience. Her character plays a key role in the political and emotional dynamics of the Norse gods, particularly within Asgard.

Palmer’s casting signals that the series will meaningfully explore the Norse pantheon, rather than limiting its focus solely to Kratos and his immediate journey.

Amazon has confirmed that the live-action series will primarily adapt the storyline of God of War (2018), the critically acclaimed reboot that redefined the franchise.

Production & Creative Team

The God of War series is being produced by Amazon MGM Studios in partnership with Sony Pictures Television.

The project is overseen by Ronald D. Moore, the acclaimed writer and producer behind Battlestar Galactica and Outlander. The show has already received a two-season order, reflecting Amazon’s confidence in the adaptation.

Filming is expected to take place in Vancouver, though a specific production start date has not yet been publicly confirmed.

What Remains Unconfirmed

To avoid misinformation, here’s what has not yet been officially announced:

• Casting for Atreus
• Additional Norse gods beyond Sif
• An official release date or trailer

Nigerian superstars Wizkid and Asake officially kick off their first joint project with the release of “Jogodo”, the lead single from their upcoming EP titled REAL (Vol. 1). Set to drop on January 23, 2026, this collaboration marks a historic moment in the Nigerian music scene, bringing together two of the country’s most influential artists.

The announcement has sparked excitement across social media, with fans praising the chemistry between Wizkid’s smooth Afropop sound and Asake’s energetic street‑influenced rhythms.

“Jogodo” is the first taste of what listeners can expect from the joint EP. The track blends Asake’s rhythmic, chant-heavy style with Wizkid’s signature smooth vocals, creating a unique sound that is both catchy and culturally resonant.

The song has already started trending on streaming platforms, currently ranking at No. 7 Apple Music NG proving that fans are eager for more from the duo.

It’s a high-energy track that perfectly captures the strengths of both artists, giving a glimpse into the direction of REAL (Vol. 1)

About the EP: REAL (Vol. 1)

The full EP, REAL (Vol. 1), will feature multiple tracks highlighting the duo’s distinct musical styles. The project is expected to combine street-inspired Afrobeat grooves with global pop elements, appealing to both Nigerian and international audiences.

This marks the first full-length collaborative EP between Wizkid and Asake, building on previous successful features like Asake on Wizkid’s Morayo album (“Bad Girl”) and Wizkid on Asake’s 2024 hit “MMS.” These past collaborations set the stage for a deeper and more cohesive project.

Wizkid has been a global Afrobeats ambassador for over a decade, known for hits like Essence, Ojuelegba, and his latest Morayo album. His collaborations with international artists have helped bring Nigerian music to a worldwide audience.

Asake, on the other hand, has quickly risen to become one of Nigeria’s most exciting acts, known for his energetic delivery and street-to-mainstream appeal. With hits like Omo Ope and MMS, Asake has solidified his position as a rising star with a unique sound that complements Wizkid’s style.

Fan Reactions

The release of “Jogodo” has already dominated Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram, with fans sharing clips, reactions, and remixes. Some have even called it the “collaboration of the year”, highlighting the seamless synergy between the two artists.

With the EP’s release just days away, fans can expect more chart-topping singles and innovative Afrobeats sounds. “Jogodo” sets the tone for an exciting project that merges global pop sensibilities with Nigerian street energy.

The Subway Surfers universe is officially expanding. SYBO Games has announced Subway Surfers City, a full sequel to the iconic mobile endless runner, with a global release date set for February 26, 2026.

First launched in 2012, Subway Surfers became one of the most downloaded mobile games of all time, defining a generation of mobile gaming. With Subway Surfers City, SYBO is positioning the franchise for a new era, one that builds on familiar gameplay while introducing deeper environments, new mechanics, and Unlike the original game’s single endless railway setting, Subway Surfers City introduces a fully designed urban world known as Subway City. The city is divided into multiple districts, each offering its own visual identity, challenges, and routes.

Players will still recognize the fast-paced dodging, jumping, and sliding that made the original game a hit, but this sequel adds more verticality, environmental variety, and interactive elements designed to keep long-time players engaged.

SYBO has confirmed that Subway Surfers City will feature new movement mechanics such as speed pads, stomp moves, and defensive power-ups that change how players navigate the city. These additions aim to make gameplay feel more dynamic while preserving the accessibility that made the original game so popular.

 Subway Surfers City will launch worldwide on iOS and Android on February 26, 2026. Pre-registration is already open in select regions, allowing players to secure early rewards ahead of the official release.

The global launch strategy signals SYBO’s confidence in the sequel’s appeal, especially as mobile gaming continues to grow across emerging and established markets.

HBO is once again looking beyond Westeros.

According to a recent reports, a new Game of Thrones sequel series is currently being explored, with early creative discussions still ongoing. While no final decision has been made about the story or characters, sources say Arya Stark is one of the possible focal points being considered.

At this stage, the project remains firmly in development, meaning there is no official series order, no script, and no production timeline.

Arya Stark’s ending in Game of Thrones season eight left one of the franchise’s most open-ended storylines. Instead of settling into Westerosi politics, she chose to sail west of the known world; a narrative thread that has never been explored on screen.

That unresolved journey is reportedly what makes Arya an attractive option for HBO as it continues expanding the Game of Thrones universe. Unlike prequel projects such as House of the Dragon, an Arya-led sequel would move the franchise forward in time, offering new locations, cultures, and stories beyond the Seven Kingdoms.

It’s important to stress that this is not a confirmed series.

It’s key to note that the story is still being shaped, and HBO has not committed to any specific character, plot direction, or creative team. The network has a history of developing multiple Game of Thrones ideas simultaneously, many of which never make it past the concept stage.

This also follows the quiet shelving of the previously discussed Jon Snow sequel, suggesting HBO is being cautious about how  and whether it revisits characters from the original series.

With House of the Dragon proving that audiences are still invested in George R. R. Martin’s world, HBO appears open to both prequels and sequels, provided the story feels fresh and justified.

HBO is exploring its options, the story is undecided, and nothing has been officially announced. But the fact that discussions are happening at all signals that the world of Game of Thrones may not be done with its most fearless Stark just yet.

Harry Styles has officially announced his highly anticipated new studio album titled Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally., scheduled for release on March 6, 2026. The project will feature 12 tracks, marking his first full-length album since Harry’s House (2022).

The announcement has instantly sparked excitement across the global pop community, positioning the album as one of the most anticipated music releases of 2026.

Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally. will be Harry Styles’ fourth solo studio album, following the massive success of Harry’s House, which earned critical acclaim, chart dominance, and major awards recognition.

While the official tracklist and lead single are yet to be revealed, the album title alone hints at a playful, groove-forward direction; potentially drawing from disco, pop, and emotionally expressive songwriting, all of which have become signatures of Styles’ evolving artistry.

What We Know So Far About the Album

Here are the confirmed details surrounding Harry Styles’ new album:

• Album Title: Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally.
• Artist: Harry Styles
• Release Date: March 6, 2026
• Number of Tracks: 12
• Album Type: Studio album
• Era: Post–Harry’s House creative phase

The album announcement follows a relatively quiet period for Styles musically, after years of touring, film appearances, and global success. With Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally., he appears ready to open a new chapter, one that could blend retro influences with modern pop sensibilities.

The 2026 MOBO Awards nomination list has officially been revealed, spotlighting the biggest names across Black music and culture  and African artists, particularly Nigerians, are once again at the center of global recognition.

Among the headline moments is Rema’s nomination for Best African Music Act, placing the Afrobeats star alongside heavyweights like Wizkid, Davido, Ayra Starr, and Tiwa Savage in one of the ceremony’s most competitive categories.

The awards ceremony is scheduled to hold later this year in Manchester, United Kingdom, continuing MOBO’s tradition of celebrating music of Black origin across the UK, Africa, the Caribbean, and the global diaspora.

Nigeria dominates the Best African Music Act nominations, reinforcing the country’s sustained influence on the global Afrobeats movement.

Best African Music Act – Nominees

• Adekunle Gold (Nigeria)
• Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
• Davido (Nigeria)
• Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
• Moliy (Ghana)
• Rema (Nigeria)
• Shallipopi (Nigeria)
• Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)
• Tyla (South Africa)
• Wizkid (Nigeria)

Major Categories: Full List of Nominees

Best Male Act

• Central Cee
• Elmiene
• Jim Legxacy
• Nemzzz
• Odeal
• Skepta

Best Female Act

• FLO
• kwn
• Little Simz
• Olivia Dean
• PinkPantheress
• Sasha Keable

Album of the Year

• Central Cee – Can’t Rush Greatness
• Ezra Collective – Dance, No One’s Watching
• FLO – Access All Areas
• Kojey Radical – Don’t Look Down
• Little Simz – Lotus
• Olivia Dean – The Art of Loving

Song of the Year

• AJ Tracey ft. Jorja Smith – “Crush”
• Donae’o ft. Omar, Lemar & House Gospel Choir – “Nights Like This”
• Fred Again, Skepta & Plaqueboymax – “Victory Lap”
• Jim Legxacy & Dave – “3X”
• kwn – “Do What I Say”
• Myles Smith – “Nice To Meet You”
• Olivia Dean – “Man I Need”
• PinkPantheress – “Illegal”
• Raye – “Where Is My Husband!”
• Tim Duzit – “Kat Slater”

Best Newcomer

• DC3Es
• DeeKid
• Finessekid
• Jim Legxacy
• kwn
• namesbliss
• Nia Smith 
• Sekou
• Skye Newman
• YT

International & Diaspora Representation

Best International Act

• Ayra Starr
• Cardi B
• Clipse
• Gunna
• Kehlani
• Leon Thomas
• Mariah The Scientist
• Moliy
• Tyla
• Vybz Kartel

Best Caribbean Music Act

• Ayetian
• Lila Iké
• Masicka
• Shenseea
• Vybz Kartel
• Yung Bredda

Music Beyond Charts: Performance, Media & Production

The 2026 nominations also recognize excellence beyond music releases, with categories spanning film, television, media personalities, production, and genre-specific innovation.

Notable nominees include Damson Idris, Cynthia Erivo, Stephen Graham, Little Simz, Ezra Collective, and Inflo, highlighting MOBO’s broad cultural scope.

Nigeria’s music scene isn’t just booming; it’s thriving with homegrown loyalty. A recent industry report confirmed what many in the industry already suspected: Nigerian listeners stream local music more than any other country in the Middle East and Africa. According to Luminate’s 2025 mid-year music consumption data, an incredible 61.3 % of all on-demand streams in Nigeria go to Nigerian artists, the highest local share in the entire region.

That 61 % figure isn’t just a statistic, it’s a reflection of how deeply fans in Nigeria engage with their own music. From Afrobeats and Street Pop to Alte, Fuji, and Amapiano-influenced sounds, Nigerian listeners are choosing local artists over international stars at an extraordinary rate. 

This level of local support is rare in global markets and it speaks to the emotional connection between Nigerian artists and their audiences. Whether it’s Burna Boy commanding stadiums around the world, or emerging stars like Odumodublvck and Ayra Starr dominating playlists, the music resonates with listeners at home in a way few other countries can match. 

This isn’t limited to audio streaming. On platforms like Spotify, Nigerian users are creating millions of local playlists, a sign that listeners aren’t just passive consumers; they’re building the culture around Nigerian music. 

Despite this massive streaming support, financial returns remain a challenge. Industry analysts point out that even millions of streams in Nigeria generate relatively modest payouts compared to global markets.

This highlights a broader issue in Africa’s music economy: popularity doesn’t always equal profit. Many Nigerian artists still face hurdles when it comes to converting streaming success into sustainable earnings at home.

While local support is huge, Nigerian music also continues to make waves internationally. Artists like Rema, Wizkid, Tems, Burna Boy, and Ayra Starr regularly feature on global charts and playlists proving that the world is listening, too. 

Nigeria’s streaming landscape shows a powerful truth: local music loyalty can become a pillar of cultural and economic growth. When fans support artists consistently, it fuels creativity, strengthens industry infrastructure, and encourages more talent to emerge.

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.