## Venice Biennale Draws Global Outrage Over Russia's Controversial Return

The 61st Venice Biennale, long celebrated as the "Olympics of the art world," has become a flashpoint for political tension and passionate protest following Russia's return to the renowned arts fair — its first appearance since launching a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

### Protesters Storm the Gardens

In a dramatic show of defiance, Russian feminist punk collective Pussy Riot joined forces with Ukrainian-founded activist group FEMEN to stage a powerful demonstration throughout the Biennale's iconic garden grounds. Clad entirely in black with vivid fluorescent pink balaclavas, the activists stormed toward the Russian national pavilion, igniting smoke flares and chanting "Russia kills! Biennale exhibits!" as security personnel scrambled to seal the entrance.

One banner carried by protesters read: "Curated by Putin, dead bodies included" — a stark and unambiguous message directed at the decision to reinstate Russia on such a globally visible stage.

Pussy Riot's Nadya Tolokonnikova spoke candidly about her group's motivations, framing Russia's cultural diplomacy as an extension of its broader military aggression. "It's not just tanks and drones, murder and rape in Ukraine," she said. "It's also culture, art, language — it's the way Russia tries to conquer the West, and you guys just opened the doors to them."

## European Commission Threatens Funding Withdrawal

The backlash against Russia's reinstatement has reverberated well beyond the canals of Venice. The European Commission has issued a formal condemnation of the decision and placed a potential €2 million funding cut on the table. Brussels argues that providing Russia — an active aggressor nation — with a prestigious international platform violates the ethical standards attached to the grant.

Italy's own culture minister has declined to attend the public opening of the fair, signaling domestic disapproval. However, Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini — who once famously paraded through Moscow's Red Square wearing a Vladimir Putin T-shirt — has refused to join the boycott, insisting that "no pavilion should be excluded." A Brussels source indicated that Italy's stance had done little to appease the European Commission.

## Controversy Extends Beyond Russia

The political storm surrounding this year's Biennale stretches further than Russia's participation alone. In a remarkable development last week, the entire international jury resigned following a statement that referenced nations whose leaders face International Criminal Court warrants for suspected war crimes — a description that applies to both Russia and Israel.

Shortly afterward, a separate wave of protesters descended on the Israeli pavilion, blanketing its entrance with rain-soaked leaflets branding it a "Genocide Pavilion." Israel's foreign ministry had previously denounced what it described as a politically compromised jury turning the Biennale into a venue for "anti-Israeli political indoctrination."

### Biennale President Breaks Silence

As the controversy intensified, Biennale president Pietrangelo Buttafuoco — a right-wing former journalist who has previously spoken in admiring terms about Vladimir Putin — initially avoided media scrutiny. He eventually broke his silence to accuse critics of building a "laboratory of intolerance," framing calls for Russia and Israel's exclusion as acts of censorship.

"If the Biennale began to select not works but affiliations, not visions but passports, it would cease to be what it has always been: the place where the world meets," Buttafuoco declared — before departing the press conference without taking questions.

His remarks drew sharp criticism for sidestepping the human cost of Russia's war. Posters plastered across Venice this week told a different story, advertising an "Invisible Pavilion" featuring Ukrainian artists and writers such as Volodymyr Vakulenko, who was shot dead when Russian forces occupied his village. Each poster bore a single, damning stamp: "Cancelled. Because the author was killed by Russia."

## Inside the Russian Pavilion

In 2022, the Russian pavilion's own curators had walked out in protest at the invasion. The building was subsequently loaned to Bolivia for two years. This time, a Russian team has filled the space with an inverted tree installation and experimental sound performances.

When asked whether Russia had any rightful place at the Biennale while continuing its assault on Ukraine, official pavilion commissioner Anastasia Karneeva was dismissive. "This is our house, we come to our place," she said, declining further comment. Notably, Karneeva's father serves as deputy head of Rostec — Russia's sprawling state-owned weapons manufacturer currently under international sanctions — a topic she also refused to address.

### A Partial and Uncertain Presence

Russia's participation at this year's Biennale is, in the end, only partial. Following the pre-opening events, the pavilion will close to the public — though whether this is a result of the protests or the practical weight of sanctions remains unclear. The performances staged inside will be recorded and broadcast externally for public viewing.

Meanwhile, just steps away near the main entrance, Ukraine's own contribution to the Biennale stands in quiet contrast: a concrete origami deer, suspended mid-air from a crane by heavy straps — a haunting and resilient symbol amid the noise of one of art's most turbulent years.

Russia's return to the Venice Biennale ignites fierce protests from Pussy Riot and FEMEN, triggering EU funding threats and a global debate over art and war.

Venice Biennale 2024: Russia's Return Sparks Protests

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Russia's Return to Venice Biennale Sparks Fierce Protests and International Controversy

## Bravo's 'The Valley' Faces Criticism Over Lack of Drama

There's a certain irony brewing in the Bravo universe. Just one year after viewers rallied for Jax Taylor's departure from *The Valley* — the popular *Vanderpump Rules* spinoff — a growing faction of those same fans is now questioning whether the show has lost its entertainment value without him.

## From Villain to Void: The Jax Taylor Effect

When the push to remove Jax Taylor from the cast reached a fever pitch, audiences were vocal and united. His behavior, both on and off screen, made him a polarizing figure that many felt had no place on the series. Producers and network executives ultimately responded to the public pressure.

However, as the latest episodes have aired, discourse across social media and fan forums has shifted in an unexpected direction. Rather than celebrating a drama-free season, many viewers are complaining that *The Valley* now feels flat, predictable, and lacking the combustible energy that once made it appointment television.

### Was Jax the Engine Behind the Drama?

Love him or hate him, Jax Taylor was undeniably a magnet for conflict. His presence consistently generated storylines, heated confrontations, and the kind of unpredictable television that reality TV thrives on. Without that volatile dynamic, some fans argue the remaining cast has struggled to fill the void.

Social media threads have been flooded with commentary suggesting the show feels directionless this season, with several longtime viewers openly admitting they miss the chaos — if not the man himself.

## The Double-Edged Sword of Reality TV Accountability

This situation highlights a fascinating tension that reality television often navigates. Audiences hold real power in shaping cast decisions, and networks increasingly respond to fan-driven campaigns. Yet when a disruptive personality is removed, the very drama that kept viewers glued to their screens can evaporate along with them.

It raises an uncomfortable question for Bravo loyalists: Was the outrage about genuine accountability, or was it simply part of the spectacle?

## What's Next for 'The Valley'?

Whether *The Valley* can recalibrate and rediscover its footing without Jax Taylor remains to be seen. The show still boasts a capable ensemble cast, and there is certainly potential for fresh storylines to emerge. But if current fan sentiment is any indication, the pressure is on for producers to inject new life into the series before viewership begins to wane.

For now, Bravo fans find themselves in the curious position of grappling with the consequences of getting exactly what they asked for.

Bravo fans once demanded Jax Taylor's removal from The Valley. Now some believe the show has lost its drama without him. Here's what viewers are saying.

Is The Valley Boring Without Jax Taylor on Bravo?

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Has 'The Valley' Lost Its Edge Without Jax Taylor? Bravo Fans Weigh In

## Ted Turner, Visionary Behind CNN and 24-Hour News, Passes Away at 87

Ted Turner, the bold and unconventional media titan who reshaped the global news landscape by creating the world's first round-the-clock television news network, has passed away at the age of 87. CNN, the very network he brought to life, confirmed the news.

### The Birth of a News Revolution

In June 1980, Turner launched the Cable News Network — better known as CNN — introducing audiences to something entirely new: continuous, rolling news coverage available at any hour of the day. The concept was met with widespread doubt in its early days, with critics dismissively labeling the fledgling channel the "Chicken Noodle Network," convinced it would quickly collapse.

Those doubters were proven wrong. CNN demonstrated its value almost immediately, delivering fast and uninterrupted reporting during the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan in 1981 and the devastating Challenger space shuttle tragedy in 1986. The network cemented its reputation as an indispensable global news source with its landmark live coverage of the Gulf War between 1990 and 1991 — a moment so defining that President George Bush reportedly admitted he learned more from watching CNN than from intelligence briefings with the CIA.

### Tributes Pour In from Across the Industry

Leaders, journalists, and media figures from around the world offered heartfelt tributes following the announcement of Turner's death.

Current CNN CEO and Chairman Mark Thompson honored Turner's extraordinary legacy, describing him as "the giant on whose shoulders we stand." Thompson remembered Turner as "an intensely involved and committed leader — intrepid, fearless, and always willing to back a hunch and trust his own judgement," adding that Turner "was and always will be the presiding spirit of CNN."

US President Donald Trump, despite his well-documented clashes with the modern CNN, offered warm words for its founder, calling Turner "one of the greats of broadcast history" and noting, "Whenever I needed him, he was there, always willing to fight for a good cause."

Veteran CNN correspondent Christiane Amanpour paid an emotional tribute on social media, writing: "Ted Turner created an unstoppable media revolution for the benefit of all humankind. Throughout nearly 43 years at CNN, working for Ted and his vision has been the proudest achievement of my lifetime."

Broadcaster Piers Morgan, who hosted a prime-time show on CNN from 2011 to 2014, called Turner "an incredible man" who was not only a media pioneer but also "a bison rancher, huge philanthropist, and extraordinarily bold buccaneer."

Former CNN president Walter Isaacson, speaking at the Sir Harry Evans Investigative Journalism Summit in London, called Turner "the most fearless journalist I've ever seen," praising his willingness to stand up to corporate pressure and political pushback alike.

### From Billboards to a Broadcasting Empire

Turner's path to becoming one of America's most powerful media figures was anything but conventional. After his father's tragic suicide, a young Turner took over the family's billboard advertising business. He later acquired a radio station in Atlanta, Georgia, which gradually expanded into the sprawling Turner Broadcasting System (TBS) — a media empire that would come to include TBS, TNT, Turner Classic Movies, and the Cartoon Network.

His success with CNN inspired competitors to enter the 24-hour news arena. Fox News, launched in 1996 by Turner's longtime rival Rupert Murdoch, was among the most notable networks to follow the trail he blazed.

Turner also made bold, if not always successful, moves in the film industry. His $1.5 billion acquisition of MGM film studios in 1985 was short-lived, though he later purchased Castle Rock Entertainment and New Line Cinema in the 1990s. His company ultimately merged with Time Warner, marking one of the largest media consolidations in history.

### Sports, Philanthropy, and a Life Fully Lived

Beyond broadcasting, Turner's ambitions stretched across multiple arenas. He owned several major sports franchises, including the Atlanta Braves baseball team, the Atlanta Hawks basketball team, and the Atlanta Thrashers ice hockey team.

His generosity was equally notable. Turner donated $1 billion to the United Nations and channeled millions more into environmental conservation and clean energy initiatives, establishing himself as one of the most significant philanthropists of his generation.

Known for his bold personality and sharp wit, Turner earned colorful nicknames including "the Mouth of the South" and "Captain Outrageous." He was so deeply committed to CNN that he lived inside the network's headquarters for several years, frequently wandering through the newsroom in his bathrobe, always ready to debate the latest headlines.

Turner was married to Hollywood actress Jane Fonda from 1991 until their divorce in 2001. In 2018, he publicly disclosed that he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a progressive neurological condition.

### A Legacy That Transformed the World

Ted Turner's impact on media, journalism, and global communication is difficult to overstate. By daring to imagine a world where news never sleeps, he fundamentally altered how people consume information — a legacy that endures in every 24-hour news broadcast airing around the world today.

Ted Turner, the visionary media mogul who launched CNN in 1980 and revolutionized 24-hour news coverage, has passed away at the age of 87.

Ted Turner, CNN Founder and Media Pioneer, Dies at 87

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Ted Turner, Visionary Behind CNN and 24-Hour News, Passes Away at 87

## Karlis Arnolds Avots Brings a Basketball Legend to Life in 'Ulya'

One of the most compelling biographical dramas to emerge from this year's Cannes Film Festival is *Ulya*, a striking black-and-white production that shines a spotlight on one of Latvia's most celebrated sporting figures. The film, directed by Viesturs Kairišs, has earned a prestigious spot in the Un Certain Regard selection — a category renowned for championing bold and distinctive cinematic voices.

### A Unique Portrayal of Uļjana Semjonova

At the heart of the film is actor Karlis Arnolds Avots, who takes on the extraordinary challenge of portraying Uļjana Semjonova, the iconic Latvian female basketball player who rose to legendary status during the Soviet Union era. The casting choice is both daring and thought-provoking, inviting audiences to engage with deeper questions surrounding gender, identity, and historical memory.

Avots is not merely a performer in this project — he also served as co-writer of the screenplay, demonstrating a deep personal investment in telling Semjonova's story with authenticity and nuance.

## Exploring Identity Through a Soviet Lens

Set against the backdrop of Soviet-era Latvia, *Ulya* offers far more than a conventional sports biography. The film uses Semjonova's remarkable life as a lens through which to examine broader themes of personal identity, cultural belonging, and resilience under political pressure. The deliberate choice of black-and-white cinematography further enhances the film's atmospheric immersion into a defining chapter of Latvian history.

### A Story That Transcends Sport

While Uļjana Semjonova's achievements on the basketball court were extraordinary — she dominated international competition for decades and remains one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen — *Ulya* appears equally interested in the woman behind the legend. By exploring her inner world and the societal forces that shaped her, the film promises to deliver a rich, humanizing portrait that resonates well beyond basketball fans.

With exclusive clips already generating significant buzz ahead of its Cannes showcase, *Ulya* is shaping up to be one of the festival's most talked-about entries.

Karlis Arnolds Avots portrays Soviet-era basketball icon Uļjana Semjonova in the Cannes Un Certain Regard biographical drama 'Ulya', co-writing the script.

Karlis Arnolds Avots Stars as Latvian Basketball Legend in '

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Karlis Arnolds Avots Takes on Legendary Female Latvian Basketball Icon in Biographical Drama 'Ulya'

## Richard Osman and Bill Bailey Receive Royal Honours at Windsor Castle

Bestselling author and television personality Richard Osman joined comedian and musician Bill Bailey in receiving prestigious royal honours at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, as Princess Anne presided over a glittering investiture ceremony.

### Osman Recognised for Literature and Broadcasting

Osman, widely celebrated as the creative force behind the phenomenally popular Thursday Murder Club novel series and a former long-standing co-host of beloved BBC quiz shows Pointless and House of Games, was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to literature and broadcasting.

Following the ceremony, Osman spoke warmly about his conversation with Princess Anne, describing it as "a nice chat" centred around writing and quiz culture. Reflecting on the honour, he expressed deep pride in his British roots.

"I'm very proud of the opportunities this country gave me. I'm very proud of growing up in a country that's full of writers and funny people and creative people," he told the Press Association. "I owe this country an awful lot, and I intend to pay as much of that back as I can."

Osman, 55, spent 13 years developing and co-hosting Pointless before pivoting to fiction writing in 2020. His Thursday Murder Club series — which follows a group of retired residents in a Kent village who band together to investigate real crimes — has grown to six books and captured readers worldwide. The franchise recently made its way to Netflix in a major film adaptation starring Dame Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan. Additionally, actor Michael Sheen was confirmed earlier this year as Osman's successor on BBC Two's House of Games.

### Bill Bailey Made MBE for Services to Entertainment

Comedian, actor, and musician Bill Bailey was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his significant contribution to the entertainment industry. Bailey, a Somerset native, first rose to prominence in the mid-1990s and went on to host his own BBC comedy programme, Is It Bill Bailey?, before earning cult status as the lovable Manny in Channel 4's beloved sitcom Black Books, which aired from 2000 to 2004.

Over the years, Bailey has become a familiar and popular face on British panel shows, including Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Have I Got News for You, and QI. In 2020, at the age of 55, he made television history by becoming the oldest contestant ever to win Strictly Come Dancing.

Both Osman and Bailey were named in the King's New Year Honours list prior to Tuesday's ceremony.

### Other Notable Recipients

Celebrity chef and MasterChef: The Professionals judge Marcus Wareing also received an MBE, honoured for his exceptional services to the culinary arts and broadcasting. The Michelin-starred Southport chef, 55, began his career as a teenager at the iconic Savoy Hotel in London and has since built an impressive portfolio of acclaimed restaurants. Wareing notably prepared a custard tart for the late Queen Elizabeth II during her 80th birthday celebrations in 2006.

Olympic rock climbing champion Toby Roberts, who claimed gold in the boulder and lead event at the Paris 2024 Games, was also among those receiving an MBE at Tuesday's investiture.

Richard Osman receives an OBE and Bill Bailey an MBE at Windsor Castle, alongside chef Marcus Wareing and Olympic champion Toby Roberts.

Richard Osman and Bill Bailey Honoured at Windsor

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Richard Osman and Bill Bailey Honoured at Windsor Castle Investiture

## The Internet's Wildest Creator Just Got Her Act Together

For anyone who has followed Tana Mongeau's career since her early YouTube days, the transformation she's currently living through might feel almost surreal. The woman once synonymous with chaos, controversy, and unfiltered oversharing is now sober, intentional, and — perhaps most surprisingly — a brand's dream collaborator.

At 27 years old, Mongeau is stepping into what she herself describes as an entirely new chapter. With millions of followers spread across every major social platform and a growing reputation as a genuine, relatable voice online, she's launching a solo video podcast called *Brand Safe* — a title that doubles as both a declaration and a little wink at her famously turbulent past.

"This is unlike anything I've ever experienced," Mongeau told THR during a sit-down conversation in early April.

---

## From Chaos to Calculated: How a Skincare Mask Went Viral

The moment that crystallized Mongeau's new direction didn't come from a carefully planned campaign. It started with a skincare confession.

During a now-legendary episode of *Cancelled* — the hit podcast she co-hosted with Brooke Schofield — Mongeau was asked what she'd do first if she were married to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. After some characteristically NSFW remarks, she got to the real answer: an unlimited lifetime supply of Medicube PDRN pink collagen gel masks.

The clip went viral almost immediately. But there was a catch — other TikTok users began clipping the moment and reposting it with their own affiliate links, effectively profiting off Mongeau's organic endorsement without a single cent going her way.

Months later, after *Cancelled* aired its final episode and Mongeau and Schofield parted ways amid reported creative and business differences, Mongeau decided to reclaim the moment. She posted her own enthusiastic, authentically Tana-style promotion of the Medicube masks directly to her 9 million TikTok followers.

"I stand on everything I said," she declared in the February video, which has since racked up over 23 million views — a number that rivals the monthly ratings of Netflix's hit series *Bridgerton*.

"Did I do it right?????" she asked in the caption. Spoiler: she absolutely did.

---

## Building an Empire Across Every Platform

Mongeau's rise began more than a decade ago on YouTube, where she carved out a loyal audience by being the creator who said what everyone else was thinking — loudly, and without hesitation. Beefs, scandals, and behind-the-scenes drama were all fair game. Her willingness to go there, wherever "there" happened to be, made her appointment viewing for a generation of internet-raised fans.

Over the years, as audiences shifted from platform to platform, Mongeau shifted with them. Today, her digital footprint is substantial: 5.5 million YouTube subscribers, 5.5 million Instagram followers, 9 million on TikTok, 2.4 million on X, and 2.1 million on Snapchat. She's hosted multiple podcasts, performed live tours, and built an OnlyFans following that proved her business instincts extended well beyond traditional content creation.

Her self-deprecating catchphrase — "not bad for a 5 with no talent" — has always been part of the charm. But as comedian and friend Chelsea Handler points out, there's real substance beneath the self-roasting.

"She's unfiltered, self-deprecating, and doesn't take herself too seriously," Handler said. "These are important qualities for someone in the public eye. It's refreshing. And she's fun — that's pretty important too. She's fun and funny."

Handler and Mongeau first crossed paths on a flight out of Las Vegas and have since become genuine friends. "She is everything to me," Mongeau says of Handler.

---

## Getting Sober: The Decision That Changed Everything

Perhaps the most significant shift in Mongeau's life over the past year has nothing to do with brand deals or podcast launches. It's sobriety.

Mongeau now identifies as "California sober" — meaning she's given up alcohol while still occasionally using marijuana. The journey to get there wasn't linear or easy. She describes years of on-and-off sober stretches, each one teaching her something new about herself.

The turning point came during a tour when the pattern became impossible to ignore. She was drinking heavily every night, waking up to hangovers and heart palpitations, and performing onstage while her body was essentially in withdrawal. Meanwhile, her boyfriend Makoa — who was in Bali at the time — couldn't hide his concern, even through a phone screen.

"I could feel his disappointment through the phone," Mongeau recalled. A moment in the mirror during that tour became the catalyst she needed.

"You're going to lose everything you love if you keep abusing substances," she told herself. "You're living your dream and you can't function in it. You need to wake up and be present or you will regret it for the rest of your life."

She traces her first real wake-up call back even further — to a flight home from Miami where she found herself sweating through her clothes in a middle seat, heart racing, her body clearly telling her something had to change.

"My biggest battle with getting sober was that I couldn't stomach the fact that I might be one of those people that could never be moderate," she admitted. "I eventually got to the point where I realized that that might just not genetically be in my cards, at least at this time in my life."

The withdrawals were brutal. She pushed through them largely on her own — on tour buses, backstage, and in hotel rooms — without checking into a formal program.

"I probably should have been a rehab girlie, and it would have sped up the process," she acknowledged. "But I've always kind of done things on my own."

---

## Peace Is Not Boring: A New Relationship With Quiet

For someone who once described her baseline emotional state as being on a roller coaster, learning to embrace calm has been its own kind of work.

"When you're born on a roller coaster, my homeostasis was being on that roller coaster," Mongeau explained. "If things weren't chaotic or lively at all times, I couldn't stand it. I hated the quiet. It would eat me alive."

Sobriety forced her to sit with that discomfort and move through it. Now, she says, she's reached a place where peace doesn't feel like a threat.

"I can't believe that I used to thrive on a roller coaster," she said.

The shift has also changed how people around her respond. Friends and colleagues who have known her for years are treating her differently — inviting her into spaces she was previously deemed too unpredictable to occupy.

"People I've known for years are taking me seriously for the first time and inviting me to events," she said. "I'm not a liability in certain rooms."

And when she attended Justin Bieber's private concert and afterparty — an experience that generated 5 million TikTok views on its own — she chose to share the joy of the evening without spilling a single piece of gossip. It was a deliberate choice, and a meaningful one.

"Just because it's the truth does not mean that you had to say it," she reflected. "There's something beautiful about holding back a little and using discretion. Not everything needs to make it to the mainframe."

---

## *Brand Safe*: The Podcast That Defines the New Era

Mongeau's upcoming solo video podcast, *Brand Safe*, is designed to put her new identity front and center. The show will follow her journey as an increasingly sought-after brand partner and a businesswoman who is, if not fully serious, at least significantly more strategic than she once was.

Expect fewer personal meltdowns and more genuine product enthusiasm — but still the story times, still the personality, still unmistakably Tana.

"I want to be a person that I'm proud of at all times. I want to be responsible, I want to be respected — all of these things that I just wasn't doing for so long or prioritizing in my life," she said. "I really want to become a different person in a lot of ways."

Beyond the podcast, Mongeau has hinted at the potential launch of her own consumer brand in the near future. She's also spoken openly about a dream of one day having a Las Vegas residency — an ambition that would have seemed purely chaotic years ago but now feels oddly plausible.

She even auditioned for *Euphoria*, the HBO drama known for its unflinching portrayal of teenage excess — a show that, in some ways, could have been written about her own past.

---

## What Comes Next

Mongeau's evolution is a fascinating case study in the longevity of internet fame. Where many creators flame out or fade into irrelevance, she has continuously reinvented herself without ever losing the core authenticity that made her magnetic in the first place.

She's also begun to reckon with the darker side of the digital world she helped build.

"The time spent conspiring and talking about all of these negative things and the consumerism and the endless void of needing some new product to be happy — I'm definitely recognizing the damages of overconsuming social media, comparing yourself to others and all of these things," she said. "Which I never, ever, ever thought I would say."

For a woman who has built her entire career on radical transparency and digital visibility, even spending less time on her phone counts as a revolution.

But perhaps the most radical thing Tana Mongeau has ever done is simply this: choosing to grow up — on her own terms, in her own time, and with the whole internet watching.

Tana Mongeau is sober, brand-safe, and launching a new podcast. Discover how the internet's wildest creator is reinventing herself for her most profitable era.

Tana Mongeau Is Sober and Entering Her Most Lucrative Era

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Tana Mongeau Enters Her Most Profitable Era Yet — and She's Never Been More Ready

## Christopher Nolan Unveils Full Trailer for Epic Blockbuster The Odyssey

Universal Studios has released the first full-length trailer for *The Odyssey*, the eagerly awaited return of director Sir Christopher Nolan following his Oscar-sweeping triumph with *Oppenheimer*. The new footage offers audiences a sweeping, immersive look at one of history's most celebrated adventure tales brought to life on the biggest possible canvas.

### Matt Damon Takes the Helm as Odysseus

At the center of the story is Matt Damon, stepping into the sandals of Odysseus, the legendary King of Ithaca. Best known for *Good Will Hunting* and the *Bourne* franchise, Damon portrays the battle-worn hero determined to find his way home after the long and devastating Trojan War — fighting his way back to the family he left behind.

Anne Hathaway joins the cast as Penelope, Odysseus's devoted yet embattled wife and Queen of Ithaca, while Tom Holland plays their son Prince Telemachus, who clings to hope that his father will return. In a charming real-life crossover, Holland's partner Zendaya appears in the film as the powerful goddess Athena.

### Robert Pattinson Brings Menace as the Villain Antinous

Robert Pattinson takes on the role of Antinous, the arrogant and ruthless antagonist who sets his sights on Queen Penelope during the king's prolonged absence. The trailer makes clear that Antinous refuses to entertain any notion of Odysseus's return, creating a tense and dangerous power struggle back in Ithaca.

"My dad is coming home," insists a resolute Telemachus, even as the royal household appears to have descended into disorder and chaos after two decades without its king.

### A Vast and Fantastical World Comes to Life

The trailer introduces viewers to a rich and mythologically vibrant world. Charlize Theron appears as the enchanting nymph Calypso, while John Leguizamo portrays Eumaeus, Odysseus's loyal servant. Jon Bernthal steps in as Menelaus, the King of Sparta and brother of Agamemnon — the latter played by Benny Safdie.

The footage also teases the terrifying cyclops Polyphemus, son of the god Poseidon — a creature that promises to be one of the film's most memorable and formidable obstacles. Additional cast members include Himesh Patel as Eurylochus, Mia Goth as Melantho, Jimmy Gonzales as Cepheus, Lupita Nyong'o, and Will Yun Lee.

The trailer blends visceral battle sequences, harrowing sea voyages, and striking flashbacks to the Trojan War — events originally chronicled in Homer's *Iliad* — creating a sense of epic scope that rivals anything Nolan has previously produced.

### Nolan's Most Ambitious Project Yet

Shot entirely on IMAX cameras and carrying a reported budget of $250 million (approximately £185 million), *The Odyssey* represents Nolan's most ambitious and expensive undertaking to date. The director is no stranger to large-scale productions, having previously helmed *Inception*, *Interstellar*, the *Dark Knight* trilogy, and *Dunkirk* — but this ancient Greek adventure appears set to surpass them all in sheer magnitude.

In a recent appearance on *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert*, Nolan reflected on the enduring relevance of Homer's work, drawing a direct line between ancient mythology and modern superhero culture.

"Even comic-book culture, whether you're talking about Marvel or DC, a lot of it comes pretty directly from the Homeric epics," Nolan explained. "Homer is the Marvel of its day. There's this desire for us to feel that gods can walk amongst us, and the modern comic book is our expression of that."

The director revealed that his connection to *The Odyssey* stretches back to childhood, recalling his first encounter with the story through a school play when he was just four or five years old. Despite its familiarity, Nolan says he has crafted the adaptation in a way that allows both devoted fans and newcomers to experience it with fresh eyes.

### Release Date and Box Office Competition

Much like *Oppenheimer* famously went head-to-head with *Barbie* during the summer of 2023, *The Odyssey* is set to share its release date of **July 17** with another major studio tentpole — *Spider-Man: Brand New Day*. Whether history will repeat itself with another cultural box office phenomenon remains to be seen.

As for Odysseus himself, his resolve is crystal clear in the trailer's most defiant moment: *"No one can stand between me and home. Not even the Gods."*

Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey full trailer is here. See Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, and Robert Pattinson in the epic Homer adaptation releasing July 17.

Nolan's The Odyssey Trailer: Cast, Plot & Release Date

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First Full Trailer for Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Showcases Star-Studded Cast

## BJ Novak Embraces His Role as Fashion's Biggest Offender in 'The Devil Wears Prada 2'

When BJ Novak landed a supporting role in *The Devil Wears Prada 2*, he did what he always does when joining a new production — he packed a bag of his own clothes and showed up ready to contribute to his own wardrobe. What he wasn't prepared for was walking into a two-story costume warehouse stocked with contributions from virtually every major designer on the planet.

"I showed up to the wardrobe department on my first day having brought my own things," Novak recalls with a laugh. "Then I walk into this two-story warehouse that every designer in the world has been flooding them with requests."

The irony? His character doesn't wear any of it.

## Playing Fashion's Biggest Villain — In Sweatpants

Set two decades after the beloved original film, the sequel revisits the fictional *Runway* magazine at a moment of institutional crisis. Novak plays the publishing house's heir, a tech-obsessed, athleisure-wearing antagonist who finds himself almost immediately at odds with the legendary — and still absolutely terrifying — editor Miranda Priestly, once again brought to life by Meryl Streep.

His character barely looks up from his phone, dresses exclusively in tech-brand gear and athletic wear, and radiates a kind of gleeful disrespect for everything the fashion world holds sacred. "At least it was a very comfortable wardrobe," Novak quips.

For a man who grew up in Boston — a city he lovingly describes as dressing people "like Fisher-Price characters: the dad, the construction worker, the mail person" — the role may have been closer to home than he'd like to admit. "I play a character in the movie who is such an offensively dressed outsider to the fashion world," he says. "So I think that probably was good casting."

He's quick to note that his close friend Mindy Kaling, also a Boston native, took a very different path on the style front.

## An Unexpected Phone Call That Changed Everything

Novak didn't go looking for this role. The opportunity came through screenwriter and producer Aline Brosh McKenna, a friend who sent him a cryptic text that simply read: "Let me know what you think!"

Confused, Novak assumed she had messaged the wrong person — or worse, was trying to offload a troubled pilot script onto him. It wasn't until she called him directly that the full picture came into focus.

"She's like, 'It's *The Devil Wears Prada 2*. You play so-and-so. All of your scenes are with Meryl Streep. Everyone already approved you. We shoot in the summer in New York, Milan and Lake Como,'" Novak recounts. "This is an insane phone call. This is not generally the call you get."

## Holding His Own Opposite the Greatest Actress Alive

For a self-described overthinker, the psychological challenge of playing someone who openly disrespects Miranda Priestly — and therefore Meryl Streep — was considerable.

"I really had to psych myself up," Novak admits. "When I got this role, my first instinct was just to be in awe of the greatest actor of all time, in one of her best roles ever, and enjoy the ride. But that's the wrong approach."

His reframe was rooted in genuine respect: if you truly admire someone of Streep's caliber, you owe it to them to show up as the best possible scene partner, not a starstruck bystander. He shelved the reverence during filming and saved it for after the cameras stopped rolling.

What surprised him most was discovering Streep's comedic sensibility. "Comedy people gravitate towards each other," he says. "On set, I got the sense that she's a comedy person in some way. It was so much fun."

## A Writer First — Everything Else Follows

Despite the high-profile nature of this project, Novak is candid about the fact that acting is not his primary occupation. His 2022 directorial debut, the dark comedy *Vengeance*, remains his most ambitious on-screen undertaking, and he's largely been focused on other creative ventures since — including a growing food business and a string of bestselling children's books, most notably *The Book With No Pictures*, which he acknowledges is probably the single most financially successful project of his career.

"It's the one I thought about money least as I was making it," he says. "Which is a nice lesson."

When asked whether he actively pursues more acting work, Novak is refreshingly unbothered. "What am I supposed to do? Stare at my phone harder? People will call." He cites directors-turned-occasional-actors like Rob Reiner, Sydney Pollack, and Greta Gerwig as his model — creative people who act brilliantly when someone comes calling, but whose identity isn't defined by it.

## Redefining What It Means to Be a Writer

At his core, Novak sees everything through the lens of writing — even directing. "If I'm directing, I'm just writing with the camera, writing with the score, writing with the actors," he explains. He argues that the word "writing" itself deserves a rebrand, stripped of its associations with spelling tests and grammar rules.

"There are so many people that are good at those parts and are really boring," he says. "It has so little to do with spelling or grammar or the things that intimidate people out of writing."

He's equally passionate about expanding his work in children's literature, arguing that comedy for kids remains an underexplored space. "Kids being funny isn't unlocked enough. Not enough people are doing it right," he says, confirming that more books are in the pipeline.

## The Disappearing Act of 'The Premise'

Not everything in Novak's creative catalog has survived the digital age. His FX anthology series *The Premise* quietly vanished from streaming platforms during the wave of content purges that swept through the industry a few years ago — and Novak found out the same way most fans did: through a confused text from an actor, followed by a tweet.

"It just disappeared," he says. "And there are no hard copies of something like that. I don't know where it is or where it went."

Does he have his own digital copy? He pauses. "I don't think so. Maybe they did it for my own good."

With *The Devil Wears Prada 2* positioning him as one of the season's most talked-about supporting players, it's clear that BJ Novak — writer, director, children's book author, reluctant fashion disaster — is more than comfortable operating on his own terms. Whether Hollywood keeps calling is, by his own philosophy, entirely up to them.

BJ Novak talks about playing fashion's worst-dressed villain in The Devil Wears Prada 2, working with Meryl Streep, and why writing always comes first.

BJ Novak on 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' and Meryl Streep

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BJ Novak on Being the Worst-Dressed Character in 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' — And Loving Every Minute

## Kid Cudi Parts Ways With M.I.A. Over Offensive Onstage Comments

Grammy Award-winning rapper Kid Cudi has officially removed British singer-songwriter M.I.A. from his ongoing Rebel Ragers tour, citing offensive remarks she made during a support performance that left his fanbase deeply unsettled.

### What Happened at the Dallas Show?

The incident unfolded on May 2 during a live performance in Dallas, Texas, where M.I.A. was serving as the opening act. Video footage from the show captured the moment the audience turned on the singer, erupting into loud boos after she addressed the crowd.

"I've been cancelled for many reasons. I never thought I would be canceled for being a brown Republican voter," she told the audience. She also commented that she was unable to perform her track *Illygal*, adding ambiguously that "some of you could be in the audience."

Following the backlash, M.I.A. — born Mathangi Arulpragasam — took to X (formerly Twitter) to clarify that she is not actually eligible to vote in the United States, despite referring to herself as a Republican voter.

### Kid Cudi Responds With a Firm Statement

Kid Cudi, whose real name is Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi, addressed the situation directly through Instagram, revealing that he had received an overwhelming number of messages from fans disturbed by M.I.A.'s comments.

In his statement, he described the episode as "very disappointing" and disclosed that he had communicated clearly to M.I.A.'s management team ahead of the tour that he did not want any offensive or divisive content during the shows. He added that he had been assured her team fully understood and respected that request.

## Who Is M.I.A.?

London-born M.I.A. first emerged on the music scene in 2003, quickly building a devoted following with her genre-defying sound and politically charged lyrics — themes deeply rooted in her upbringing as the daughter of Sri Lankan parents.

She achieved widespread international recognition with her 2008 hit *Paper Planes*, which climbed to number four on the US Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year. She also received an Oscar nomination for *O... Saya*, a track featured on the acclaimed *Slumdog Millionaire* soundtrack.

### A Pattern of Controversy

In recent years, M.I.A. has repeatedly found herself at the center of public controversy due to a series of provocative stances.

She drew sharp criticism after stating she would "take death" rather than receive a COVID-19 vaccine, a comment that led many to label her an anti-vaxxer. She later attempted to walk back the statement, insisting she opposed profit-driven pharmaceutical companies rather than vaccines themselves.

In 2024, she launched a clothing line featuring designs purportedly capable of shielding wearers from Wi-Fi and 5G signals — claims that have been firmly dismissed by the scientific community as having no credible basis.

She has also publicly voiced support for President Donald Trump in the lead-up to the US elections.

### M.I.A. Fires Back After Being Dropped

Following her removal from the tour, M.I.A. took to social media to defend herself, stating that she wrote *Illygal* "before you thought immigrant rights were cool."

"I've had these battles myself without the help of millions of fans backing me," she wrote. "I don't need this virtue signal era to all of a sudden erase an entire life I've led."

The fallout marks a significant public clash between two prominent artists and raises broader questions about the boundaries of free expression on shared stages.

Kid Cudi has removed M.I.A. from his Rebel Ragers tour after she made controversial comments during a Dallas show that upset his fanbase.

Kid Cudi Drops M.I.A. From Tour Over Offensive Remarks

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Kid Cudi Cuts M.I.A. From Rebel Ragers Tour Following Controversial Onstage Remarks

## Airbnb Bets Big on K-Pop With Immersive Seoul Experience

Airbnb has once again turned to the magnetic pull of K-pop to fuel its growth ambitions, this time through a dazzling two-hour fan experience centered on BigHit Entertainment's popular boy band Cortis. Held in Seoul and bathed in neon light, the event offered fans an intimate, curated encounter with their favorite artists — and served as the latest move in Airbnb's carefully crafted, years-in-the-making Korean playbook.

## A Strategy Years in the Making

This isn't Airbnb's first foray into the world of K-pop. The company has spent several years deliberately weaving itself into the fabric of South Korea's entertainment culture, recognizing that passionate fan communities represent one of the most powerful engines of travel demand in the world today.

By partnering with beloved acts and offering exclusive, money-can't-buy experiences, Airbnb positions itself not just as a place to stay — but as a gateway to the full K-pop lifestyle. For devoted fans willing to travel across continents for a glimpse of their favorite group, the platform becomes an essential part of the journey.

### Why K-Pop Fans Are the Ideal Audience

K-pop fandoms are globally renowned for their dedication, organization, and spending power. These communities routinely coordinate international travel, purchase merchandise en masse, and engage deeply with any brand associated with their favorite artists. For Airbnb, aligning with K-pop culture means tapping into a self-motivated, highly engaged traveler base that actively seeks out experiences beyond the ordinary hotel stay.

## Driving Bookings and Breaking Down Barriers

Beyond the obvious marketing benefits, Airbnb's K-pop strategy carries a more calculated purpose. South Korea maintains some of the most restrictive short-term rental regulations in Asia, creating significant hurdles for platforms like Airbnb to operate freely within the country.

By cultivating goodwill among Korean consumers and demonstrating clear cultural and economic value — through high-profile events that draw international visitors and spotlight Korean entertainment — Airbnb appears to be laying the groundwork for a longer-term effort to influence and potentially reshape those regulatory conditions.

### Soft Power Meets Business Strategy

The Cortis fan experience exemplifies how Airbnb is blending cultural soft power with hard business objectives. A neon-lit evening of fan engagement is, on the surface, a gift to devoted followers. Beneath that, it is a strategic statement: Airbnb belongs in Korea, and Korea belongs on Airbnb.

## Looking Ahead

As K-pop continues its relentless global expansion, Airbnb appears committed to riding that wave. With each new partnership and fan-focused event, the platform deepens its roots in a market that is both commercially valuable and notoriously difficult to crack. Whether this approach will ultimately translate into lasting regulatory change remains to be seen — but as a tool for building brand affinity and driving bookings, the K-pop strategy shows every sign of delivering results.

Airbnb's neon-lit Cortis fan experience in Seoul is the latest step in its K-pop strategy to drive bookings and reshape Korea's short-term rental laws.

Airbnb Uses K-Pop Strategy to Boost Seoul Bookings

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How Airbnb Is Using K-Pop's Global Pull to Transform Its Korea Strategy

## Met Gala 2026 Brings Hollywood Royalty to the Metropolitan Museum

New York City's most anticipated fashion event of the year is officially in full swing. The 2026 Met Gala, the annual fundraising celebration for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's prestigious Costume Institute, has drawn a dazzling array of celebrities, designers, and cultural icons to its iconic steps.

### A Power-Packed Co-Chair Lineup

This year's event — not without its share of controversy — is being led by an extraordinary group of co-chairs. Global music icon Beyoncé, acclaimed actress Nicole Kidman, tennis legend Venus Williams, and Vogue's legendary editor-in-chief Anna Wintour have joined forces to headline the fundraiser. The diverse and high-profile quartet brings a unique blend of music, film, sport, and fashion to the evening's leadership.

### Celebrating "Costume Art"

The 2026 Met Gala centers on the theme **"Costume Art"**, inviting attendees to interpret the intersection of fashion and artistic expression through their red carpet looks. Guests have risen to the occasion, arriving in elaborately crafted ensembles that reflect the spirit of the evening's cultural celebration.

Among the notable arrivals, Chloe Malle was spotted making her entrance at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 4, 2026, adding to the growing list of distinguished guests gracing the event.

### An Evening of Fashion and Philanthropy

Beyond the glamour and spectacle, the Met Gala remains one of the most significant fundraising events in the cultural calendar, with proceeds directly supporting the Costume Institute's exhibitions and acquisitions. This year's gathering continues that storied tradition, blending high fashion with meaningful philanthropic purpose on one of the world's most famous red carpets.

The 2026 Met Gala celebrates Costume Art with co-chairs Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams & Anna Wintour. See the latest red carpet arrivals.

Met Gala 2026: Red Carpet Arrivals & Co-Chairs

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Met Gala 2026: Star-Studded Red Carpet Arrivals Light Up New York City

## Met Gala 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Fashion's most anticipated evening of the year is finally here. The Met Gala 2026 is set to welcome approximately 450 of the world's biggest celebrities to the steps of New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art, where glamour, artistry, and haute couture collide for one unforgettable night.

## This Year's Theme and Dress Code

The 2026 Met Gala centers on the theme **Costume Art**, inspired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art's landmark new exhibition. The show brings together an extraordinary collection of 400 garments and objects representing 5,000 years of fashion history.

Guests have been given the dress code **"Fashion Is Art"**, encouraging them to explore the deep relationship between clothing and artistic expression. The theme invites attendees to celebrate how the dressed human body has been depicted and interpreted across art history.

Expect a stunning variety of interpretations on the red carpet. Outfits drawing inspiration from the Renaissance, Baroque, and Impressionist movements are all on the table, and some celebrities may even pay direct homage to iconic individual paintings. As is typical with the Met Gala, the theme is broad enough to inspire virtually endless creative possibilities.

## Who Are the 2026 Co-Chairs?

Longtime Met Gala chair **Anna Wintour** has assembled an impressive trio of co-chairs for this year's event:

- **Beyoncé** – Making her long-awaited return to the gala for the first time since 2016, when she dazzled in a futuristic ensemble during that year's technology-themed event.
- **Nicole Kidman** – The Oscar-winning actress and longtime fashion icon joins as a co-chair.
- **Venus Williams** – The tennis legend brings star power from the world of sport to fashion's biggest stage.

Amazon founder **Jeff Bezos** and his wife **Lauren Sanchez Bezos** are also serving as co-chairs and primary sponsors of the event. Their involvement has sparked some controversy, with protest posters appearing near the museum referencing concerns over workers' rights. Bezos stepped down as Amazon's CEO four years ago.

## Host Committee Highlights

This year's host committee is headed by **Anthony Vaccarello** and **Zoë Kravitz**, with a star-studded lineup that includes **Sabrina Carpenter**, **Doja Cat**, **Teyana Taylor**, **Lisa from BLACKPINK**, **Elizabeth Debicki**, and **Lena Dunham**.

## What Happens at the Met Gala?

The Met Gala officially opens the Costume Institute's spring exhibition, which runs through January 2027 and serves as the department's primary source of funding. While the red carpet is a public spectacle watched by millions around the world, the event itself remains strictly private.

Inside, invited guests enjoy an exclusive evening of dinner, cocktails, live music, and a private viewing of the new exhibition. A firm no-selfie rule is enforced within the venue, preserving the event's sense of mystery and exclusivity.

As has become tradition, the gala falls on the **first Monday in May**, with guests beginning to arrive at approximately **6:00 PM EST (11:00 PM BST)**.

## How Much Do Met Gala Tickets Cost?

The Met Gala is one of the most exclusive events on the planet. Individual tickets are reported to cost around **$75,000 (approximately £56,000)**, while full table bookings start at upwards of **$350,000 (approximately £258,000)**.

## How to Watch the Met Gala 2026

Although the public cannot attend the event itself, the red carpet coverage is widely accessible. **Vogue** will host its official livestream across its digital platforms, YouTube, and TikTok.

Hosting this year's Vogue coverage are **Ashley Graham**, **Cara Delevingne**, and **La La Anthony**, with fan-favorite **Emma Chamberlain** returning as red carpet correspondent.

Beyond Vogue, numerous media outlets will run their own live coverage across Instagram, TikTok, and other social platforms. The BBC News website will also feature a dedicated live page tracking celebrity arrivals throughout the evening.

## A Note on the Cultural Moment

The Met Gala never exists in isolation. This year, the release of **The Devil Wears Prada 2** was strategically timed to coincide with the event's weekend — a nod to the original film, which famously offered a satirical look at the fashion world and was loosely inspired by Anna Wintour's tenure at *Vogue*.

It's worth noting that the Met Gala was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic — the only year in recent memory the event did not take place.

Everything you need to know about the Met Gala 2026 — from Beyoncé's return as co-chair to ticket prices, the Fashion Is Art theme, and how to watch live.