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Rockstar Bans GTA Online Missions Inspired by Charlie Kirk Assassination

Rockstar Games has taken swift action after disturbing player-created content referencing the real-world assassination of American political commentator Charlie Kirk surfaced in Grand Theft Auto Online.

According to multiple reports, some users exploited the game’s recently introduced Mission Creator tool to design custom scenarios that mirrored the tragic shooting. The missions quickly drew backlash online, prompting Rockstar’s parent company, Take-Two Interactive, to intervene.

Following public attention, Rockstar removed the offending missions from GTA Online and banned further creation or distribution of similar content. The company also reportedly added “Charlie Kirk” to its internal content filter, preventing players from publishing or searching missions using his name.

While Rockstar has not released a public statement, the move signals a clear stance: real-world violence, especially involving identifiable individuals, will not be tolerated in user-generated gameplay.

The controversy stems from GTA Online’s expanded creative tools, which allow players to design and share custom missions. While the feature was intended to boost creativity and community engagement, it also opened the door to content that crossed ethical and social boundaries.

One particular mission circulated widely on social media, sparking outrage and renewed debate about moderation in open online gaming environments.

By removing the missions and censoring related references, Rockstar has drawn a rare but firm line in a franchise often associated with creative freedom and controversy.

The incident has reignited conversations around user-generated content moderation, especially as games increasingly function as social platforms rather than just entertainment products.

8 Natural Foods That May Support Male Sexual Health and Performance

Sexual health is closely linked to overall well-being. For men, factors such as blood circulation, hormone balance, energy levels, stress, and lifestyle habits all play a role in sexual desire and performance.

While no single food can “fix” sexual health challenges overnight, certain natural foods contain nutrients that support heart health, circulation, and hormonal balance, which are essential for healthy sexual function.

Here are eight natural foods that may help support male sexual health when consumed as part of a balanced lifestyle.

1.Watermelon

Watermelon contains citrulline, an amino acid that helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. Healthy circulation is important for sexual performance, and staying hydrated also supports stamina and energy levels.

2. Eggs

Eggs are rich in protein, B vitamins (especially B5 and B6), and healthy fats. These nutrients help support hormone regulation, reduce fatigue, and maintain energy levels, all of which can influence libido and endurance.

3. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) contains antioxidants that support blood circulation and reduce stress hormones. Lower stress levels can positively affect sexual desire and overall mood.

4. Ginger

Ginger is known for its ability to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Regular consumption may help support testosterone levels and improve energy, which are both important for sexual health.

5. Garlic

Garlic contains allicin, a compound that supports blood flow and helps keep blood vessels healthy. Good cardiovascular health is directly linked to sexual performance and stamina.

6. Bananas

Bananas are rich in potassium, which supports heart health, muscle function, and nerve activity. They also provide quick energy, which can help reduce fatigue.

7. Groundnuts (Peanuts)

Groundnuts provide healthy fats, protein, and arginine, an amino acid that supports blood vessel function. These nutrients play a role in hormone production and circulation.

8. Avocado

Avocados are packed with healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants. These nutrients support hormone balance, heart health, and energy levels, making them beneficial for overall sexual wellness.

Beyond Food, Lifestyle Matters

Diet alone is not enough. Sexual health is influenced by:

  • Regular physical activity
  • Adequate sleep
  • Stress management
  • Limiting alcohol and avoiding smoking
  • Maintaining a healthy weight

A balanced approach delivers better results than relying on food alone.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The foods listed may support general sexual health as part of a healthy lifestyle, but they are not treatments or cures for erectile dysfunction or other medical conditions. Individuals experiencing persistent sexual health issues should consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

Stephen Graham Confirms Adolescence Season 2 Plans After Golden Globe Win

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.

MultiChoice Nigeria Appoints Kemi Omotosho as New CEO

MultiChoice Nigeria has announced the appointment of Kemi Omotosho as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective January 2026, marking a major leadership transition at one of the country’s most influential media and entertainment companies.

Omotosho succeeds John Ugbe, who is set to retire after nearly 15 years at the helm of MultiChoice Nigeria, a period defined by subscriber growth, local content expansion, and the consolidation of platforms such as DStv and GOtv as household staples across the country.

Kemi Omotosho brings over two decades of experience spanning media, telecommunications, and digital services across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa. Notably, she is not new to the MultiChoice ecosystem.

Her previous roles within the MultiChoice Group include:

  • Executive Head, Customer Value Management (Nigeria)
  • Group Executive Head, Customer Value Management (Rest of Africa)
  • Regional Director, Southern Africa, where she oversaw operations and full profit-and-loss responsibility across a seven-country portfolio

Nigeria remains MultiChoice Group’s largest and most strategic market in Africa, both in subscriber base and cultural influence. Omotosho’s appointment signals continuity, but also a renewed focus on customer engagement, innovation, and sustainable growth.

In her response to the announcement, Omotosho described the role as a privilege, emphasizing her commitment to:

  • Strengthening customer relationships
  • Championing local storytelling and Nigerian creators
  • Supporting the broader creative economy
  • Building a future-ready, resilient organization

John Ugbe’s retirement closes a significant chapter in MultiChoice Nigeria’s history. Under his leadership, the company expanded its local content slate, navigated regulatory and economic pressures, and maintained its dominance in a fast-evolving media landscape.

As Omotosho prepares to assume office in January 2026, attention will turn to how MultiChoice Nigeria adapts to changing viewer habits, rising content costs, and competition from global streaming platforms.

Asake: From Lungu Boy to Global Icon (Opinion Piece)

Publisher’s Note

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! 

‘Pluribus’ Becomes Apple TV+’s Biggest Series to Date

Apple TV+ has a new record-breaker on its hands.

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+.

2026 NAACP Image Awards: Full Nominations, Cynthia Erivo and Kendrick Lamar Lead the Nominee List

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)
  • Highest 2 Lowest — Denzel Washington, Jeffrey Wright, Ilfenesh Hadera, A$AP Rocky (A24)
  • 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) 

Outstanding Female Artist

  • Alex Isley – Hands (Warner Records)
  • Cardi B – Am I the Drama? (Atlantic Records)
  • Doechii – Anxiety (Top Dawg/Capitol Records)
  • SZA – SOS Deluxe: LANA (RCA/Top Dawg)
  • Teyana Taylor – Escape Room (Def Jam Recordings) 

Outstanding Jazz Album

  • For Dinah – Ledisi (Candid Records)
  • We Insist! 2025 – Terri Lyne Carrington & Christie Dashiell (Candid Records)
  • Beneath the Skin – Nnenna Freelon (Origin Records)
  • Live‑Action – Nate Smith (Naive)
  • Griot Songs – Omar Thomas Large Ensemble (Omar Thomas Music) 

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album

  • Jekalyn X The Legends – Jekalyn Carr (Waynorth Music)
  • Live at Maverick City – Maverick City Music (Tribl Records)
  • Only On The Road (Live) – Tye Tribbett (Freligious Music)
  • Tasha – Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Motown Gospel)
  • The Live Reunion: Washington D.C. – JJ Hairston & Youthful Praise (James Town Music) 

Outstanding International Song

  • “In Our Sight” – Skip Marley (Def Jam)
  • “Is It” – Tyla (Epic)
  • “Love” – Burna Boy (Spaceship/Bad Habit/Atlantic)
  • “With You” – Davido ft. Omah Lay (RCA/Sony Music UK)
  • “You4Me” – Tiwa Savage (Everything Savage/EMPIRE) 

Outstanding Music Video/Visual Album

  • Anxiety – Doechii
  • Boots on the Ground – 803Fresh
  • Escape Room – Teyana Taylor
  • Folded – Kehlani
  • luther – Kendrick Lamar & SZA

Outstanding Album

  • Am I The Drama? – Cardi B (Atlantic Records)
  • Beloved – GIVĒON (Epic Records)
  • Let God Sort Em Out – Clipse, Pusha T, Malice (Roc Nation)
  • Mutt Deluxe: Heel – Leon Thomas (EZMNY/Motown Records)
  • SOS Deluxe: LANA – SZA (RCA/Top Dawg) 

Outstanding Soundtrack/Compilation Album

  • Godfather of Harlem: Season 4 (Original Series Soundtrack) (Epic/SONY)
  • Highest 2 Lowest (Original Soundtrack) (A24)
  • Sinners (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (Proximity Media/Sony Masterworks)
  • The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder: Season 3 (Walt Disney Records)
  • Wicked: For Good (The Soundtrack) (Republic Records) 

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song

  • “Church” – Tasha Cobbs Leonard ft. John Legend
  • “Constant – Live” – Maverick City Music et al.
  • “Do It Again” – Kirk Franklin
  • “Don’t Faint” – Jekalyn Carr
  • “Jesus I Do” – Mariah Carey ft. The Clark Sisters 

Outstanding Song – Soul/R&B

  • “Folded” – Kehlani
  • “Burning Blue” – Mariah the Scientist
  • “It Depends” – Chris Brown ft. Bryson Tiller
  • “Yes It Is” – Leon Thomas
  • “Bed of Roses” – Teyana Taylor 

Outstanding Song – Hip‑Hop/Rap Song

  • “Anxiety” – Doechii
  • “Chains & Whips” – Clipse, Kendrick Lamar, Pharrell Williams, Pusha T & Malice
  • “ErrTime” – Cardi B
  • “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.

Funke Akindele Becomes Africa’s Highest-Grossing Filmmaker of All Time

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. 

EA Shuts Down Anthem Permanently, Ending the Game’s Servers After Seven Years

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. 

BREAKING: Chimamanda Adichie Serves Legal Notice to Euracare Hospital Over Son’s Death

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. 

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