Most fashion mannequins are about a size 2. The Met Gala exhibit is making room for diverse bodies
NEW YORK (AP) — The upcoming fashion exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art examines “the dressed body” in art over the centuries. But “Costume Art” also aims to include bodies that art has traditionally ignored. The museum has created 25 mannequins for display based on “real bodies.” Nine people modeled for the mannequins. Those include disability activist Sinéad Burke and body-positive lingerie designer Michaela Stark. Curator Andrew Bolton explains he's seeking to challenge centuries-old conceptions of beauty. The exhibit is launching with the May 4 Met Gala and opens to the public May 10. It runs until January 2027.
Book bans and attempted bans remain at record highs, with 'Sold' topping the list
NEW YORK (AP) — The American Library Association says book bans and attempted bans remain at record highs. Efforts to remove titles have become more coordinated and politicized. The ALA on Monday released its annual list of the most challenged books in U.S. schools and libraries. Patricia McCormick's “Sold,” a novel about sex trafficking in India, topped the list. Other targeted books include “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” and “Gender Queer.” The ALA recorded challenges to 4,235 different works, nearly matching last year's record. The association notes that many challenges now come from government officials and activists rather than concerned parents.
What to Stream: Charlize Theron, 'Marty Supreme,' Kehlani, Kate Hudson and Lainey Wilson
Timothée Chalamet starring as a ping-pong master in “Marty Supreme” and a Netflix comedy competition show hosted by Kevin Hart are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you. Also among the streaming offerings worth your time for the week of April 20 as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: Charlize Theron expanding her already robust action movie resume with the survivalist thriller “Apex,” Kate Hudson’s basketball drama “Running Point” returning for Season 2 and a Netflix documentary on country star Lainey Wilson.
Eddie Murphy receives life achievement award by AFI, drawing standing ovation at star-filled tribute
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Eddie Murphy has received the American Film Institute's life achievement award at a star-studded ceremony. The event, held Saturday night at the Dolby Theatre, featured appearances from Spike Lee, Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle, and more. Murphy, known for his roles in "Beverly Hills Cop" and "Shrek" over a nearly 50-year career, expressed gratitude for his family and career. Spike Lee praised Murphy's cultural impact, while Chris Rock and others highlighted his influence across generations. The tribute, which will air on Netflix, also included performances by Jennifer Hudson.
‘Lee Cronin’s The Mummy’ is no match for ‘Super Mario’ or ‘Hail Mary’ at the box office
“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” and “Project Hail Mary” continue to lead the North American box office. The Mario sequel has topped the charts for three weekends, adding $35 million and reaching $747.5 million globally. “Project Hail Mary” dropped only 15% in its fifth weekend, earning $20.5 million domestically and bringing its worldwide total to $573.1 million. Meanwhile, “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy” debuted in third place with $13.5 million. Despite mixed reviews, it has a worldwide total of $34 million. The overall box office is up 16% from last year, with more big releases expected soon.
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Nathalie Baye, French actor known for her warmth and versatility, dies at 77
PARIS (AP) — Nathalie Baye, a French actor known for her versatility and charm, has died at 77. French media reported she died Friday in Paris from a neurodegenerative disease. French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute, highlighting her impact on cinema. Baye starred in over 80 films, effortlessly moving between comedies and auteur films. She won two César Awards for Best Actress. She gained international recognition as Leonardo DiCaprio’s on-screen mother in "Catch Me If You Can." Her career spanned five decades, working with renowned directors and emerging filmmakers, leaving a lasting legacy in French cinema.
Amy Winehouse's father loses legal bid for funds friends made selling singer's memorabilia
LONDON (AP) — A London judge has ruled against Amy Winehouse's father who sued his daughter's friends over profits from her memorabilia. The High Court on Monday dismissed Mitch Winehouse's claim against Naomi Parry and Catriona Gourlay, who earned $1.2 million at a U.S. auction. Mitch Winehouse argued they had no right to sell the items. Parry and Gourlay stated they owned or were given the 150 items, including dresses, shoes, purses and accessories. Parry earned $878,000, while Gourlay made $344,000. Parry praised the decision, saying the allegations were unfounded and damaging.
Hundreds pack Montevideo’s plaza as La Rueda de Candombe caps a breakout run
MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (AP) — Every Monday night in Montevideo, hundreds of people gather around a table in a public square, drawn by the pulse of drums, guitars, and voices. La Rueda de Candombe started as a casual jam session but has become one of Uruguay’s most talked-about musical events. The group performs candombe, a genre rooted in African traditions that's recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Inspired by Brazilian music circles, the founders returned home to create this unique experience. Despite the city's many public spaces, street performances are rare, making this event a cultural phenomenon. The Rueda plans to expand into other public squares.
Life jacket worn by a passenger who survived the Titanic auctioned off for over $900,000
LONDON (AP) — A life jacket worn by a passenger on the RMS Titanic has sold at auction for 670,000 pounds, which is more than $900,000. The flotation device was worn by Laura Mabel Francatelli, a first-class passenger, and is signed by her and other survivors. It was sold by Henry Aldridge & Son auctioneers in England to an unidentified telephone bidder. A seat cushion from one of the Titanic lifeboats also sold for 390,000 pounds. Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge says these record-breaking prices show the continuing interest in the Titanic story. The Titanic sank on April 15, 1912, after hitting an iceberg, killing about 1,500 people.
What to know about singer D4vd's arrest in 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez's killing
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Seven months after a 14-year-old girl’s body was found in D4vd’s towed SUV, authorities say the alt-pop singer has been arrested on suspicion of killing her. Los Angeles police say detectives arrested the 21-year-old, whose legal name is David Burke, on Thursday on suspicion of murder in the investigation of the killing of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Authorities had not publicly named Burke as a suspect until his arrest. Investigators are expected to present a case to prosecutors on Monday, police said. Burke’s lawyers have declared his innocence.

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