Hollywood has a new record-holder. Timothée Chalamet, 26, has officially become the youngest actor in history to earn three Best Actor nominations at the Oscars, a milestone last approached by Marlon Brando in 1954.
Chalamet’s trio of nominations comes from performances in three critically acclaimed films:
Call Me By Your Name (2018) – His breakout role as Elio Perlman earned him his first Best Actor nod, establishing him as a formidable talent.
A Complete Unknown (2024) – Chalamet showcased his range in this psychological drama, solidifying his reputation for versatility and emotional depth.
Marty Supreme (2025) – His latest performance has not only earned him his third nomination but also placed him in contention as a frontrunner for this year’s Oscars.
With these three nominations, Chalamet joins a select group of actors in Oscar history to receive multiple Best Actor nods before the age of 30. He surpasses notable young talents of the modern era and mirrors the early career success of legendary performers like Marlon Brando and James Dean.
With Marty Supreme generating major Oscar buzz, Chalamet is expected to dominate media attention leading up to the 98th Academy Awards on March 15, 2026, hosted by Conan O’Brien. Whether he takes home the trophy this year or not, his three-time nomination record ensures that his name is now permanently etched in Oscar history.
Ryan Coogler’s Sinners has officially entered the history books. The supernatural period thriller has earned 16 nominations at the 98th Academy Awards, making it the most-nominated film in Oscars history.
The feat sees Sinners surpass the long-standing record of 14 nominations, previously shared by All About Eve (1950), Titanic (1997), and La La Land (2016). With this milestone, Coogler’s film now stands alone at the top of the Academy’s nomination leaderboard.
Set in the 1930s American South, Sinners blends historical drama with supernatural horror, following twin brothers both portrayed by Michael B. Jordan as they confront racism, faith, and an emerging vampire threat within their community.
The film’s sweeping nomination haul reflects broad Academy recognition across acting, directing, writing, music, and technical craft, signaling rare consensus support from voters.
All 16 Oscar Nominations for “Sinners”
Sinners received nominations in the following categories:
Best Picture
Best Director — Ryan Coogler
Best Actor — Michael B. Jordan
Best Supporting Actor — Delroy Lindo
Best Supporting Actress — Wunmi Mosaku
Best Original Screenplay — Ryan Coogler
Best Casting
Best Costume Design
Best Production Design
Best Cinematography
Best Film Editing
Best Makeup and Hairstyling
Best Sound
Best Visual Effects
Best Original Score
Best Original Song — “I Lied to You”
The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, with Conan O’Brien set to host. While final outcomes remain unpredictable, Sinners enters the ceremony as the clear frontrunner and the most talked-about film of the season.
Warner Bros. Discovery has officially announced a global 25th anniversary celebration for Harry Potter, marking 25 years since the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the first film in the iconic franchise.
The year-long celebration, scheduled for 2026, will feature cinema re-releases, global fan events, immersive experiences, special merchandise, and studio tour activations, reinforcing the franchise’s enduring cultural and commercial impact.
Released in 2001, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone introduced audiences to the wizarding world and went on to launch one of the most successful film franchises of all time. Over eight films, the series grossed more than $7.7 billion worldwide, becoming a defining cultural moment for an entire generation.
According to Warner Bros. Discovery, the 25th anniversary celebration is designed to honour both long-time fans and a new generation discovering the films for the first time.
As part of the anniversary rollout, Warner Bros. Discovery has outlined several global activations:
Butterbeer Season: A travelling Butterbeer experience will appear in select cities worldwide, offering themed drinks, merchandise, and fan activities.
Harry Potter’s Birthday (July 31): Official celebrations tied to Harry’s birthday will take place across Harry Potter retail locations and partner venues.
Back to Hogwarts Campaign: The annual fan celebration will be expanded in 2026 as part of the anniversary programme. These events are expected to run across North America, Europe, Asia, and other major markets.
One of the centre pieces of the celebration will be the global theatrical re-release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
The film is scheduled to return to cinemas between August 27 and September 3, 2026, with screenings featuring previously unseen behind-the-scenes footage, offering fans a deeper look at how the original film was made.
In addition, selected locations will host “Shared Reality” immersive screenings, blending the movie with enhanced visual elements for a more interactive viewing experience.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter will also mark the milestone with a special anniversary feature running from May to September 2026.
Visitors will be able to explore original sets, props, and costumes from the first film, with new exhibits highlighting the early creative decisions that shaped the franchise.
Warner Bros. Discovery will roll out 25th anniversary-branded merchandise throughout 2026, featuring a commemorative logo inspired by the magical imagery of the films.
Major global brands, including LEGO, Loungefly, Crocs, Hallmark, and others, are set to release special collections. Exclusive items will also be available at official Harry Potter stores in cities such as London, Tokyo, and across the United States.
In a historic moment for the global digital community, IShowSpeed (Darren Jason Watkins Jr.) has officially surpassed 50 million subscribers on YouTube and he did it live on his 21st birthday while streaming from Nigeria. The milestone marks a defining moment not only for Speed’s career but also for Black creators on the platform.
Fans from around the world watched as the YouTube subscriber counter ticked past 50 million during his Africa tour livestream. Nigeria, one of the stops on his “Speed Does Africa” tour, became the backdrop for what many are calling a landmark achievement for Black creators in YouTube history. Social media exploded as viewers celebrated both his birthday and the historic milestone.
Social media reports confirms that IShowSpeed’s main channel now officially stands at 50,000,000 subscribers, cementing him as a true digital powerhouse.
One of the standout moments from Speed’s time in Nigeria was his verdict on Nigerian jollof rice live on stream, he declared Nigerian jollof the best he’d had so far in comparison with Senegalese jollof, a declaration that delighted viewers and reignited the long‑standing West African jollof debate.
Social posts from fans also echoed that sentiment, noting how the streamer reacted to the spiciness and flavour of local dishes during his livestream in Lagos.
Real‑time posts on community forums show Nigerians celebrating his presence, reacting positively to his content, and noting that he’s actively absorbing cultural experiences rather than just passing through. Many locals highlighted how he engages with audiences and talks about Nigerian culture to his millions of viewers live on stream.
The ongoing stream content indicates that Speed has been interacting with his surroundings, food, and local energy in Lagos; typical of how he’s been doing in other countries on the tour.
This milestone is more than just numbers; it’s a statement about the power of youth, global audiences, and cultural representation in the digital space.
The Davido and Anu paternity saga has once again dominated conversations online and in the media. This time, the spotlight is on Deji Adeleke, Davido’s billionaire father, who has broken his silence regarding the long-running controversy. In a recent statement, Deji Adeleke emphasized the importance of truth, verification, and protecting minors, highlighting the family’s perspective amid years of public speculation.
Billionaire businessman Deji Adeleke, father of Afrobeats superstar Davido, addressed reporters this week for the first time regarding the controversy surrounding Anu Adeleke, a teenager claiming to be Davido’s daughter.
In his statement, Deji Adeleke said:
“I have 14 grandchildren. Family matters, especially those involving minors, should be treated with care. It’s important to verify claims with facts and evidence before making public statements.”
His comments come after renewed debates on social media, where the issue of Anu’s paternity resurfaced following her public plea for a DNA test as she approaches her 13th birthday.
The controversy began in 2014 when Anu’s mother, Ayo Labinjoh, claimed that Davido fathered her child following an encounter in Lagos. Over the years, the matter remained largely private, with occasional public statements and denials.
Recently, Anu, now 13 years old, posted on social media appealing for a DNA test, stating that she wanted clarity about her identity. Her appeal included emotional statements about the impact of growing up amid uncertainty and online scrutiny.
This plea reignited public interest, drawing thousands of comments and shares across platforms. Fans, media outlets, and social commentators weighed in, debating both the legitimacy of the claims and the emotional implications for Anu.
Davido has repeatedly denied paternity, stating that multiple DNA tests conducted over the years all returned negative results. According to reports, at least five separate tests were carried out; some by Davido’s team and others by the opposing side and every result reportedly confirmed non-paternity.
Deji Adeleke’s involvement behind the scenes has been significant. He has revealed that he has consistently pushed for scientific verification and proper communication, stressing the need to approach the matter responsibly and protect minors from public pressure.
Despite Davido’s denials, Anu and her mother continue to advocate for a fresh, independently verified DNA test.
Ayo Labinjoh, Anu’s mother, claims that previous tests were inaccurate or misrepresented. She insists that no officially verified test confirming non-paternity has been released, and she seeks independent verification for clarity.
The conflicting narratives have fueled online debate, with supporters on both sides voicing strong opinions. Some argue that repeated testing and official denials should suffice, while others stress that Anu’s rights and emotional wellbeing are the priority.
This is not the first time the paternity question involving Anu has emerged publicly:
2014: Initial paternity claim by Anu’s mother.
2015–2018: Media reports of DNA tests and family denials surfaced intermittently.
2019–2022: Davido reiterated his position on social media, denying paternity and emphasizing prior test results.
2026: Anu’s public plea reignites debate, leading to Deji Adeleke’s statement, which adds authority and perspective to the discussion.
Whether the matter will be conclusively resolved with a DNA test or fade into public memory depends on the next steps taken by all parties involved. Until then, the story remains a cautionary tale of family disputes in the public eye.
"I have 14 grandchildren…"
Davido's father, Deji Adeleke addresses the press regarding the controversies surrounding the paternity of Anu. pic.twitter.com/lsJnuePiIE
Fela Anikulapo Kuti, born in 1938 in Abeokuta, Nigeria, remains one of the most influential figures in African music and culture. Known as the pioneer of Afrobeat, Fela’s life was a blend of revolutionary music, outspoken activism, and fearless challenges to political authority. Even decades after his passing in 1997, his legacy continues to resonate across music, politics, and African identity.
The Birth of Afrobeat
Fela Kuti’s journey into music began at a young age. Raised in a politically active family; his mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, was a feminist and activist. Fela was exposed early to the struggles of ordinary Nigerians. He studied music in London at the Trinity College of Music, where he learned classical piano and trumpet. But it was upon his return to Nigeria that he fused traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk, highlife, and soul to create Afrobeat.
Afrobeat was more than a music genre; it was a vehicle for social commentary. Through extended compositions, intricate horn sections, and polyrhythmic percussion, Fela delivered sharp critiques of corruption, military rule, and social injustice in Nigeria and across Africa. Hits like “Zombie” and “Sorrow, Tears and Blood” were not only musical masterpieces but also acts of resistance.
Activism and Political Influence
Fela’s music was inseparable from his activism. His lyrics openly criticized Nigeria’s military regimes and exposed the harsh realities of life under oppressive governments. His Kalakuta Republic commune served as both a home and a political haven, where artists, musicians, and activists collaborated to resist authoritarianism.
Fela endured repeated arrests, raids, and physical assaults. Despite this, he remained steadfast, using his international fame to draw global attention to Nigeria’s political struggles. His activism inspired countless musicians and activists worldwide to use art as a tool for social change.
Cultural Impact
Beyond music and politics, Fela Kuti reshaped African cultural identity. He challenged colonial mindsets by promoting African traditions, attire, and language in his performances. His stage shows were theatrical, often including dancers, elaborate costumes, and improvisational elements that celebrated African heritage.
Today, Fela’s influence is evident in the global rise of Afrobeat, which has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon. Artists such as Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage credit Fela as a major inspiration. The genre has also crossed borders, influencing international musicians from Beyoncé to Major Lazer, bridging African sounds with global pop culture.
Fela Kuti’s Family Legacy
Fela’s legacy extends through his family, many of whom are accomplished artists and activists. His children, including Seun Kuti and Femi Kuti, continue to perform Afrobeat with the same political passion. The Fela Shrine in Lagos, now a museum and live music venue, keeps his memory alive, drawing fans from across the world to celebrate his music and message.
Fela’s life and impact have been immortalized through multiple mediums. The Broadway musical Fela! brought his story to international audiences, combining music, dance, and storytelling. Documentaries, films, and books continue to explore his influence, while Nigerian festivals and global Afrobeat events celebrate his contributions annually.
Fela’s fearless stance against injustice, combined with his artistic genius, created a blueprint for generations of musicians and activists. His influence on culture, politics, and music remains unparalleled, making him a symbol of resistance, creativity, and African pride.
Fela Kuti’s relevance persists because the struggles he highlighted; corruption, inequality, and political oppression still exist. His life reminds us of the power of art as a force for change and the importance of staying true to one’s convictions. In an age where African music dominates global charts, remembering Fela ensures that the roots of this cultural revolution are not forgotten.
Fela Kuti’s legacy is a reminder that music is more than entertainment; it can be a catalyst for awareness, unity, and transformation. His story is a call to celebrate African heritage, challenge injustices, and inspire future generations to use their voices boldly and not to be chasing unnecessary clout on social media.
In a stunning celebration of Nigerian cuisine and cultural pride, celebrity chef Hilda Baci has officially carved her name into the Guinness World Records once again; this time for the largest serving of rice ever prepared. The record-breaking achievement was confirmed on Guinness’s official site under the title “Largest serving of rice”, following a monumental cooking event that took place in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria on September 12, 2025.
This extraordinary feat builds on Hilda’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic culinary ambassadors and continues a journey that has sparked global interest in Nigerian food culture.
According to the Guinness World Records, the largest serving of rice was achieved by Hilda Baci in partnership with Gino Nigeria, weighing an astonishing 8,780 kilograms (about 19,356 pounds). The massive total wasn’t just any rice, it was Nigerian-style jollof rice, the beloved West African dish celebrated across the continent and beyond.
To qualify for the record, the dish had to meet specific criteria set by Guinness including making sure rice made up at least 80 % of the total weight. After intensive preparation and coordination, Hilda and her team achieved exactly that and served the huge quantity to eager attendees during the event.
The cooking took place in a custom-built steel cauldron, designed just for the occasion, and required meticulous planning, logistics, and energy.
What made this record more than just a Guinness entry was the way the food was shared. After the jollof rice was cooked and weighed, it was distributed to those in attendance. Reports described over 16,600 plates being handed out to a thrilled crowd, turning a world record into a moment of community celebration and shared joy.
This isn’t Hilda Baci’s first brush with Guinness World Records. In May 2023, she captured international attention with a marathon cooking session that lasted 93 hours and 11 minutes, setting a record for the longest continuous cooking by an individual at the time. That achievement drew massive global interest and helped launch her into international fame.
Hilda Baci’s confirmation by Guinness World Records for the largest serving of rice is a celebration of food, community, and national pride. With 8,780 kg of jollof rice prepared, served, and shared, she has once again shown what passion and creativity can accomplish not just for a chef, but for a culture.
What started as a warning directed at a fanbase has now turned into a full-blown clash between two of Nigeria’s most influential musical legacies.
The long-running tension between Seun Kuti and Wizkid FC officially crossed a new line after Wizkid broke his silence on social media, responding directly to the controversy for the first time. But this moment did not come out of nowhere.
It began weeks earlier with a pointed message from Seun Kuti; one that reignited debates around Fela Kuti’s legacy, celebrity worship, and fan culture in Nigeria.
The saga began when Seun Kuti publicly warned Wizkid FC to stop invoking Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s name in online debates and fan-driven arguments.
In his message, Seun made it clear that:
Fela’s legacy should not be used as ammunition in fanbase wars
Activism, resistance, and cultural critique should not be reduced to internet banter
His father’s name carried historical and political weight beyond pop culture arguments
The post quickly gained traction and was widely interpreted as a direct response to Wizkid fans who had repeatedly referenced Fela while defending the superstar against criticism.
While Wizkid himself did not respond at the time, Wizkid FC took the message personally, triggering days of online back and forth, insults, and ideological arguments.
Throughout this period, Wizkid remained silent, allowing the storm to play out between Seun Kuti and his fanbase.
That silence ended abruptly. This comes after Seun Kuti released another video hammering on Wizkid FC and stating that Wizkid didn’t care about them and that is why he is yet to say anything about the ongoing saga.
In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Wizkid has started tweeting about the controversy and reposting tweets that talk about Seun Kuti, firing back in an unusually emotional and confrontational tone.
Netflix has officially revised its high-profile acquisition offer for Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), switching from a stock-and-cash proposal to an all-cash deal valued at $82.7 billion. The amended offer sets the price at $27.75 per share, covering WBD’s studios, HBO, Max, DC, Harry Potter, and Game of Thrones libraries, among other key assets.
This move is seen as a strategic maneuver by Netflix to provide greater certainty to WBD shareholders while fending off a competing bid from Paramount.
Originally, Netflix’s bid included a mix of stock and cash. However, in high-stakes mergers, the uncertainty of stock-based offers can create hesitation among shareholders, especially when competing offers are on the table. By moving to a 100% cash offer, Netflix ensures that WBD shareholders receive a guaranteed payout, strengthening the appeal of their proposal.
“The amended cash offer provides certainty and maximizes value for Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders,” WBD’s board stated.
In comparison, Paramount’s rival bid, reportedly up to $30 per share, has intensified the competition, forcing Netflix to rethink its strategy to retain a competitive edge.
The assets included in the acquisition are a significant addition to Netflix’s content library:
Warner Bros. Studios: Access to decades of film and television production.
HBO & Max: Premium streaming content, including iconic series like Succession, Euphoria, and Game of Thrones.
DC Universe: Superhero franchises including Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman.
Harry Potter Franchise: The lucrative Wizarding World of movies and spin-offs.
Game of Thrones Library: One of the most popular television franchises globally.
Netflix vs Paramount: The Streaming Rivalry
Paramount’s interest in WBD escalated the bidding war. While details of Paramount’s offer vary, reports indicate the company is also pursuing an all-cash deal, intensifying the race to acquire one of the most valuable media libraries in the world.
Netflix’s cash-only strategy reduces uncertainty for WBD shareholders, giving it an advantage over offers that mix stock, which may fluctuate in value depending on market conditions.
If completed, the deal would mark a historic consolidation in the media and streaming sector. Netflix would gain a massive library of films, series, and franchises, dramatically expanding its content offerings and subscriber appeal.
For WBD, the deal provides a cash exit for shareholders, allowing the company to settle its operations with certainty amid growing competition in streaming.
Netflix’s switch to an all-cash $82.7B deal for Warner Bros. Discovery highlights the streaming giant’s commitment to content dominance in an increasingly competitive market. With Paramount also in the race, the coming months are set to define the future of global streaming, possibly giving Netflix unprecedented control over some of the most valuable media franchises in history.
The Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) has officially begun unveiling films selected for its 2026 competition lineup, marking the early stages of one of the world’s most influential film events.
The 76th edition of the Berlinale is scheduled to run from February 12 to February 22, 2026, with the festival once again turning Berlin into a global hub for filmmakers, critics, and cinephiles. As is tradition, the lineup is being revealed in stages, with additional titles expected to be announced in the coming days through live press briefings and official updates.
Initial announcements confirm a strong mix of international auteurs, emerging voices, and high-profile talent, reflecting the Berlinale’s long-standing commitment to artistic diversity and global storytelling.
Several films featuring notable names such as Isabelle Huppert and Ethan Hawke have already been confirmed across various festival sections, while the broader programme includes works spanning drama, genre cinema, and socially driven narratives .
The 2026 edition is also the second Berlinale under artistic director Tricia Tuttle, with expectations that this year’s competition slate will further shape the festival’s evolving creative direction .
While the Berlinale has confirmed that films selected for the Official Competition will contend for top honours including the Golden Bear, the full list of competition titles has not yet been finalized. Festival organisers have stated that announcements are being made incrementally, with live updates planned as selections are locked in .
In addition to the main competition, films have also been announced in other key sections such as Panorama, Generation, and Special Gala, reinforcing the festival’s reputation for showcasing both mainstream and boundary-pushing cinema .
More competition titles, jury details, and premiere information are expected to be revealed before the festival opens in February. Industry observers anticipate that the final lineup will include a balance of world premieres, politically conscious films, and prestige international productions, consistent with Berlinale’s identity as one of the “big three” European film festivals.
This article will be updated as new films are officially confirmed and added to the 2026 Berlinale competition slate.
