AP Entertainment SummaryBrief at 8:57 a.m. EDT

Who are the 5 people convicted in connection with Matthew Perry’s death

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The prosecution of five defendants stemming from the death of “Friends” star Matthew Perry is coming to a close. They've all pleaded guilty for their various roles in supplying the actor with ketamine, the drug that was the primary cause of his 2023 death at age 54. Two doctors and an admitted drug dealer prosecutors say was known as “The Ketamine Queen” have been sentenced. The final two will receive their sentences in the coming days. They are Perry's live-in personal assistant who helped him acquire and inject the drug and an addiction counselor who made a ketamine connection for the actor.

Corleone crime family returns in a new 'Godfather' novel for 2027 release by Random House

NEW YORK (AP) — The Corleone crime family saga is getting a new chapter. Random House has acquired a “Godfather” novel authorized by Mario Puzo's estate, written by bestselling author Adriana Trigiani. Scheduled for a fall 2027 release, “Connie” will focus on the Corleone family member played by Talia Shire in the films. Trigiani says the novel explores how Connie forges her own path in a world that underestimates her. Paramount retains film rights. The Puzo estate sought out Trigiani for her unique perspective on the Corleone women. Anthony Puzo, the author's son, expressed excitement about Trigiani's vision.

Israel and favorite Finland advance to the Eurovision final as 5 countries are sent home

VIENNA (AP) — Ten countries have advanced to the Eurovision Song Contest final after the first semifinal. They include favorite Finland and Israel, whose participation has spurred a boycott by five nations. Israeli singer Noam Bettan was met with shouts of protests amid the cheers in the auditorium when he performed the rock ballad “Michelle." Finland advanced with “Liekinheitin,” or “Flamethrower,” a mashup of pop singer Pete Parkkonen’s anguished vocals and violinist Linda Lampenius’ fiery fiddling. Greece, Serbia, Moldova, Croatia and Sweden were also voted into the final, while Estonia, Georgia, Montenegro, Portugal and San Marino were eliminated. The second semifinal will be Thursday. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators plan to protest Israel's participation ahead of Saturday's final.

Sandra Oh, Kumail Nanjiani and Bowen Yang are in a HBO doc on being Asian American, Pacific Islander

Timed for release during AAPI Heritage Month, “The A List: 15 Stories from Asian and Pacific Diasporas” has dropped on HBO Max. It’s the latest in “The List Series” created by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders. The franchise has previously produced documentaries on prominent Black, Latino and LGBTQ+ Americans. Director Eugene Yi captures no-frills, intimate interviews with 15 people of AAPI heritage across industries. They include TV broadcaster Connie Chung, Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth and DJ Rekha. Actors Sandra Oh, Kumail Nanjiani and Bowen Yang also shared their thoughts about identity and belonging.

Princess Catherine arrives in Italy on first solo trip abroad after cancer goes into remission

REGGIO EMILIA, Italy (AP) — Britain’s Princess Catherine is making her first overseas trip since announcing her cancer is in remission. She arrived in Italy on Wednesday for a two-day tour to spotlight early childhood education. The princess, commonly known as Kate, arrived in Reggio Emilia in northern Italy to learn about its child-centered approach to early years education, which has become a focal point for educators around the world. The trip is part of what her office called an international “fact-finding mission” to explore different approaches to supporting young children and their carers.

From 'The Hills' villain to LA mayoral contender: Spencer Pratt’s viral video-fueled campaign

Spencer Pratt, known for his role on the reality television show "The Hills," is running for mayor of Los Angeles. He's positioning himself as a savior, promising to tackle the city's disorder and dysfunction. Initially met with skepticism, Pratt's campaign is gaining momentum from viral videos as early voting begins. Pratt, a Republican, is focusing on populist themes, criticizing liberal governance and highlighting issues like homelessness. Despite his creative campaign, he faces a challenge in the heavily Democratic city. Karen Bass, seeking a second term, has strong Democratic support.

Conan O’Brien to return as Oscars host in 2027

Conan O’Brien’s era as Oscars host is becoming a trilogy. Film academy leaders say the Emmy-winning comedian will host the 99th Academy Awards in 2027. O’Brien hosted the last two Oscar ceremonies to positive reviews. Earlier this year, he joked about being the last human host before AI takes over. He’ll be joined by returning executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan. Film academy leaders on Tuesday praised the team for producing captivating shows. Despite a dip in viewership this year, social media engagement rose significantly. The 99th Oscars will be broadcast live on ABC from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

Peter Jackson receives honorary Palme D’Or as Cannes flaunts star power despite Hollywood's retreat

CANNES, France (AP) — The 79th Cannes Film Festival is underway with politics, artificial intelligence and the shifting priorities of Hollywood taking center stage at the global film gathering. The festival paid tribute to Peter Jackson in the opening ceremony, giving the “Lord of the Rings” filmmaker an honorary Palme d'Or. Jane Fonda and Gong Li officially opened the festival, with Fonda declaring: “Cinema has always been an act of resistance.” It was a fitting observation for a film festival where politics has taken center stage. The festival hands out the awards on May 23.

The Cannes Film Festival has started. Here are 5 things that happened on its first day

CANNES, France (AP) — The 79th Cannes Film Festival has kicked off. Tuesday marked the start of 12 days of nonstop premieres that will culminate on May 23 with the presentation of the prestigious Palme d’Or prize. The festival's first day was eventful. Peter Jackson was given an honorary Palme d'Or. The festival was declared open by Jane Fonda and Gong Li. Talk of politics and artificial intelligence dominated the introduction of the jury. Guillermo del Toro presented a restored “Pan's Labyrinth.” And James Franco, largely left out in Hollywood, walked the red carpet.