Actors' union approves 4-year contract with studios and streamers
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Television and movie actors have voted to ratify a four-year contract with studios and streaming services. This comes after union leaders negotiated protections against synthetic actors created by artificial intelligence. The ratification was widely expected, and a strike like the one in 2023 never seemed likely during the drama-free negotiations. More than 90% of Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists members approved the agreement. The new deal, like on recently reached by Hollywood writers, is for four years instead of the usual three. This provides extra labor stability in the industry. The contract includes provisions to keep the use of AI actors minimal.
Former Prince Andrew made money subletting cottages on his rent-free estate, report shows
LONDON (AP) — A report by Britain's public spending watchdog shows that the former Prince Andrew made money by subletting cottages on the estate where he lived rent-free for two decades. The National Audit Office said Friday that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor rented out three cottages on the Royal Lodge estate, his home near Windsor Castle. He paid a nominal "peppercorn rent" for the property. The report doesn't specify his income from these rentals, which concerned some lawmakers. Andrew was stripped of his royal titles and forced to move out of Royal Lodge after his ties to Jeffrey Epstein were revealed. Critics argue the findings show the royal family doesn't pay its way.
A rare Edith Wharton story is unearthed about the gap between everyday life and the horrors of WWI
NEW YORK (AP) — A rare Edith Wharton short story has just been published. It appears in the new issue of The Strand Magazine. The story is called “The Men Who Saved the World” and it's set near the end of World War I. Edith Wharton was known for her novels about New York high society. During World War I, she helped those affected and reported from the front lines. Wharton was living in Paris at the time. She set up workrooms for displaced seamstresses and commissioned hostels for refugees. Her experiences eventually inspired the fiction that she became known for.
Shakira and Burna Boy to play in first of three World Cup opening ceremonies
Shakira and Burna Boy will perform in Mexico City for the first of three opening ceremonies for the World Cup. The music stars will perform Dai Dai ahead of the opening game between co-host Mexico and South Africa on Thursday. It is the official song for the tournament. FIFA has planned opening ceremonies for each host nation, with curtain-raisers ahead of games in the United States and Canada as well.
Apple TV's retelling of 'Cape Fear' brings a psycho killer into our homes in 'a nightmare for today'
NEW YORK (AP) — Javier Bardem takes on the chilling role of Max Cady in a new "Cape Fear" series on Apple TV. The show debuts Friday with the first two episodes. Bardem plays a former inmate seeking revenge on the lawyer who put him away. Amy Adams and Patrick Wilson star as the targeted couple. Showrunner Nick Antosca aims to honor the classic films while adding a modern twist. The series is set in 2026, incorporating elements like TikTok and AI. Martin Scorsese, who directed the 1991 film, serves as an executive producer. The 10-part series promises to blend nostalgia with fresh, unsettling elements.
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Music Review: Niall Horan throws a 'Dinner Party' for those in love
NEW YORK (AP) — Niall Horan's fourth studio album, “Dinner Party,” centers love songs inspired by his longtime partner, whom he met at a dinner party. The 12-track collection makes long-term relationships sound effortless, argues The Associated Press music writer Maria Sherman in her review. The album is glossy, from the dreamy guitar pop of “Monochromatic” and slow-burn “She Gets It from Her Mother” to the yacht rock silliness of “Boys Are Fun” and romantic bass of “Flowers.” Horan adds depth with tracks like “Better Man” and “Pretty.” The album closes with “End of an Era,” co-written with One Direction songwriters. It reflects on the past and pays tribute to bandmate Liam Payne, who died in 2024.
Movie Review: 'Scary Movie 6' brings back the Wayans and the Core Four for a rapid-fire horror spoof
The latest installment of the “Scary Movie” franchise, “Scary Movie 6,” features the Wayans family humor, blending cartoonish, topical and absurd elements, the AP's Mark Kennedy says. The script is a series of loosely connected skits parodying horror films and current events, like the rap beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. The original Core Four characters return, now adults, facing Ghostface: Marlon Wayans’ Shorty, Shawn Wayans’ Ray, Anna Faris’ Cindy and Regina Hall’s Brenda. The film includes numerous celebrity cameos and references, maintaining its signature irreverent style. The R-rated movie opens in theaters Friday.
Choose ‘Trainspotting’: Ewan McGregor and Danny Boyle reflect on the life-changing film
Ewan McGregor says “Trainspotting” remains a defining moment in his career. The film about four heroin addicts in 1980s Scotland celebrates its 30th anniversary with a 4K digital re-release starting Friday. McGregor and director Danny Boyle reflect on the film's impact and the youthful energy that drove its creation. Boyle recalls the challenges and creative freedom of working with a small budget. McGregor describes the rock star-like fame he experienced after the film's success. Boyle hopes audiences will revisit or discover “Trainspotting” in theaters, emphasizing its passionate love for cinema.
Kennedy Center moves to erase Trump references after judge said they were illegally added
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kennedy Center is removing references to President Donald Trump after a federal judge ruled they were added illegally. A memo to staff Thursday from the Kennedy Center's Office of General Counsel said email signatures, letterhead and other documents must reflect the name as “The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts” or “Kennedy Center.” The changes must be completed by June 12. A federal judge ruled on May 29 that Trump’s name had been illegally added to the venue. The judge also blocked the administration from closing the venue for major renovations planned for July.
Marjane Satrapi, Iranian French cartoonist and filmmaker known for 'Persepolis,' dies at 56
PARIS (AP) — Acclaimed Iranian French cartoonist and filmmaker Marjane Satrapi has died at 56. The French presidency announced her death Thursday, highlighting her role as a leading figure in French culture and a devoted advocate for freedom. Satrapi was best known for her autobiographical comic book and film “Persepolis,” which won international acclaim. She was a passionate advocate for women's rights and film education. Satrapi's work often highlighted the struggles of Iranian society, especially women. Her husband, Swedish film producer Mattias Ripa, died last year.
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