AP Entertainment SummaryBrief at 11:52 a.m. EDT

Hollywood heavyweights voice 'unequivocal opposition' to Paramount-Warner merger in open letter

NEW YORK (AP) — More than a thousand movie stars, writers, directors and other Hollywood professionals announced their “unequivocal opposition” to the proposed Paramount merger with Warner Bros. Discovery in an open letter published Monday. A large swath of the movie industry, including Denis Villeneuve, Kristen Stewart, J.J. Abrams and Joaquin Phoenix came out forcefully against the $111 billion deal that would consolidate two legacy studios into one, arguing it would further reduce jobs and movies in an already downsized Hollywood. In late February, David Ellison’s Paramount Skydance reached a deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery in one of the largest media mergers ever. The deal awaits a shareholder vote and regulatory approval.

Hollywood leaders, theater owners gather at CinemaCon at a critical time in the industry

LAS VEGAS (AP) — The future of movie theaters is at a critical point. More people are visiting theaters this year, but box-office earnings are still down about 20% from pre-pandemic levels. Competition from streaming is intense, and there are concerns about consolidation as Warner Bros. faces new ownership under Paramount. Hollywood executives and theater owners are gathering in Las Vegas for CinemaCon to address these issues. Jerry Bruckheimer, Emma Thomas, and Ryan Coogler are leading a new filmmaker leadership council to tackle challenges like release windows and consolidation. Despite concerns, there is optimism with exciting upcoming releases.

Dave Chappelle stands firm through backlash and considers revisiting ‘Chappelle’s Show’

YELLOW SPRINGS, Ohio (AP) — Dave Chappelle finds clarity away from the spotlight in the Ohio village where he lives. In an interview, he reflects on his comedic voice, which has sparked debate and criticism, particularly over jokes about transgender people. Despite the backlash, Chappelle feels his audience remains supportive and views criticism as something to endure, drawing inspiration from figures like Muhammad Ali. he says he has never set out to provoke controversy, describing his work as an extension of the same stand-up he has always done. He's also open to revisiting "Chappelle’s Show," acknowledging that the comedy landscape has changed with digital platforms.

Music Review: Jessie Ware’s 'Superbloom' dives deep into disco, but the drama runs cool

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jessie Ware’s sixth album, “Superbloom,” takes listeners on a playful journey. The Associated Press’ Krysta Fauria writes in her review that Ware, once known for ethereal love ballads, further shifts to sexy, soulful tracks on her new album. Her song “Sauna” evokes Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical” with its funky synths and heavy breaths. But while Ware’s previous work brimmed with passion, “Superbloom” feels more restrained. The track “I Could Get Used To This” lacks conflict, making it feel less engaging. “Don’t You Know Who I Am?” stands out with its mix of empowerment and heartbreak. The album out Friday is great for the club but could use more drama to match Ware’s powerhouse vocals.

It's music festival season. How to stay safe and healthy while enjoying the show

NEW YORK (AP) — Music festival season is here, bringing outdoor fun, music and dancing. Experts say planning is key to staying safe and healthy so you can focus on the music and the fun. Music festivals these days have put more focus on on-site medical staff than they used to. But it's important to stay nourished and hydrated, and be aware of the heat index. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bug repellent are recommended. Find out each festival's rules in advance and download their app. Don't take food or drinks from strangers. For multi-day festivals, remember, it's a marathon, not a sprint.

‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ rockets to $629 million worldwide at the box office

“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” is dominating the box office in its second weekend. Universal and Illumination's sequel added $69 million from 4,284 theaters in the U.S. and Canada. Its domestic total now stands at $308.1 million, with a global total of $629 million. The figures mark a 48% drop from its first weekend, which is modest for a blockbuster. The sequel cost $110 million to produce and is being considered a hit despite not matching the first film's initial success. Meanwhile, Universal's “You, Me & Tuscany” debuted in fourth place with $8 million. The romantic comedy starring Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page is getting mixed reviews but positive audience feedback.

Celebrity birthdays for the week of April 19-25 includes Barbra Streisand and Dev Patel

Celebrities having birthdays during the week of April 19-25 include actor-singer-director Barbra Streisand, wrestler-turned-actor John Cena and singer-TV personality Kelly Clarkson. Actor Kate Hudson turns 47, “Criminal Minds” actor Shemar Moore hits 56 and actor-comedian John Oliver reaches 49. Other celebs with big days during the week include director Michael Moore, actor Judy Davis and actor Valerie Bertinelli. Actor-comedian George Lopez turns 65, actor-comedian Cedric the Entertainer hits 62 and actor-comedian Ali Wong reaches 44. Others celebrating are actor Dev Patel, singer Iggy Pop, actor Patti LuPone and actor Tony Danza.

Iraqi women mourn Sajida Obaid, a singer who gave them a taste of freedom

IRBIL, Iraq (AP) — Seven days after the death of iconic Iraqi singer Sajida Obaid, women gather at her family home in Irbil to mourn. Obaid, who died on April 4 at 68 from lung cancer, was beloved for her women-only parties. These gatherings allowed women to dress and dance freely, away from societal scrutiny. Born in Baghdad to a Roma family, Obaid began singing at 12 and became a national star. Her songs often pushed social boundaries, offering a voice to women. Her brother and manager, Aayed Awda, says she deeply believed in creating spaces for women to be themselves.