Updated News -Entertainment https://updatednews.ca Stay Informed, Stay Connected Tue, 16 Apr 2024 09:21:19 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://i0.wp.com/updatednews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/cropped-icon.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Updated News -Entertainment https://updatednews.ca 32 32 11776598 “Rust” Armorer Receives 18-Month Prison Term for Fatal Shooting by Alec Baldwin https://updatednews.ca/rust-armorer-receives-18-month-prison-term-for-fatal-shooting-by-alec-baldwin/ Tue, 16 Apr 2024 09:21:19 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=12136 On Monday, movie weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was handed an 18-month prison sentence for her role in the tragic shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the Western film “Rust.” Gutierrez-Reed, convicted of involuntary manslaughter by a jury in March, had been held in a county jail for over a month awaiting sentencing.

During the hearing, Gutierrez-Reed’s tearful family and friends provided testimonials, urging for accountability and justice in ensuring safety on film sets. Prosecutors held Gutierrez-Reed responsible for bringing live ammunition onto the set, where it was prohibited, and for failing to adhere to basic gun safety protocols.

Despite Gutierrez-Reed’s plea for leniency, stating she had done her best under challenging circumstances, Judge Mary Marlowe Summer emphasized the severity of her actions, stating that Gutierrez-Reed alone turned a safe weapon into a lethal one, resulting in Hutchins’ death.

Emotions ran high as testimonials painted a picture of Hutchins as a talented rising star in Hollywood, with friends and family recalling her courage and compassion. The Ukrainian relatives of Hutchins are pursuing damages from Alec Baldwin, who was handling the gun when it discharged, in connection with the shooting.

Gutierrez-Reed’s defense argued for leniency, citing her youth and the intense public scrutiny she faced, but prosecutors pushed for the maximum sentence, labeling her behavior as exceptionally reckless. The judge, influenced by Gutierrez-Reed’s lack of remorse, opted for the maximum sentence and designated her as a serious violent offender.

The case underscores the importance of safety protocols on film sets and raises questions about accountability in the entertainment industry. As the legal proceedings continue, the tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of negligence in the workplace.

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Spotted at Coachella https://updatednews.ca/taylor-swift-and-travis-kelce-spotted-at-coachella/ Mon, 15 Apr 2024 09:45:45 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=12126 Pop sensation Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce were spotted enjoying the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival over the weekend, soaking in the performances of various artists including rapper Ice Spice.

The couple was photographed among the crowd, immersing themselves in the music scene as Ice Spice performed, even dedicating a moment to Swift by making a heart-shape with her hands and expressing her admiration for the singer.

Known for its celebrity attendees, Coachella witnessed Swift and Kelce’s presence during the performance of Jack Antonoff, a longtime collaborator of Swift, with his band Bleachers. Later, they were seen at the Neon Carnival after-party, with Swift donning a “New Heights” hat, a nod to Kelce’s podcast with his brother, Jason Kelce.

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Rock Star Regrets Defection to North Korea https://updatednews.ca/rock-star-regrets-defection-to-north-korea/ Mon, 11 Mar 2024 13:07:50 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=12069 Amid the tumultuous 1960s, characterized by assassinations, civil rights protests, and strong opposition to the Vietnam War, Japan, too, experienced widespread unrest.

The nation grappled with its own socio-political challenges, including the Anpo struggle against the post-WWII treaty allowing U.S. military bases and daigaku funsō (university troubles) addressing various issues, from Narita Airport construction to post-secondary school management.

Amid this backdrop, Les Rallizes Dénudés, an experimental rock band formed at Kyoto’s Doshisha University in 1967, emerged as a unique fusion of the artistic visions of vocalist Takashi Mizutani and the radical theatre group Gendai Gekijo. While not inherently political, the band performed for protestors during the late ’60s, participating in events like the Barricades A Go-Go concert in 1968. Notably, bass player Moriaki Wakabayashi was actively involved in the Communist League, the precursor to the Japanese Red Army, a militant communist group later designated as a terrorist organization.

Wakabayashi’s commitment to the Communist League led to the infamous “Yodo-go” incident on March 31, 1970. As part of the Kyosando Sekigunha group, he hijacked Japan Air Lines flight 351 with the aim of inspiring a Soviet-style proletarian revolution in Japan. The hijackers, armed with swords, steel pipes, and bombs, initially demanded to fly to Cuba but faced a critical hurdle – the plane lacked the fuel capacity for the journey.

Authorities strategically diverted the plane to Kimpo Airport in Seoul, South Korea, staged to resemble North Korea. The hijackers disembarked, believing they had succeeded, only to discover they were in South Korea. Infuriated, they demanded passage to North Korea, seeking asylum. The hostages were released, and the plane finally landed in North Korea on April 3, 1970.

Despite initial appearances as heroes of the socialist revolution, the hijackers faced a harsh reality in North Korea. Annoyed by being the second choice after Cuba, North Korea treated them as unwanted guests. Subsequent arrests, deaths, and defections followed. Wakabayashi, fired from Les Rallizes Dénudés, remained in North Korea, where he married a fellow radical activist flown in secretly.

Over time, Wakabayashi’s political views softened, and in 2010, he acknowledged the hijacking as “selfish and conceited.” Although he expressed a willingness to return to Japan to face trial, he remains in North Korea. Meanwhile, Les Rallizes Dénudés continued until 1996, and their mysterious leader, Takashi Mizutani, maintained a low profile, with rumors suggesting his death in 2019. The band’s legacy intertwines with political upheavals, reflecting a unique chapter in Japan’s history.

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America Ferrera Sparkles in Pink, Rita Moreno in Statement Black at Oscars https://updatednews.ca/america-ferrera-sparkles-in-pink-rita-moreno-in-statement-black-at-oscars/ Mon, 11 Mar 2024 10:05:48 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=12056 NEW YORK – In a glamorous farewell to the awards season, America Ferrera dazzled on the Oscars red carpet in a stunning, sparkly Versace gown, capturing the essence of “Barbie” with its signature pink hue. Meanwhile, Rita Moreno radiated joy in a statement black gown from Badgley Mischka.

Fashion critics celebrated Ferrera’s choice, with Brooke Bobb, fashion news director for Harper’s Bazaar, commending her for nailing the bombshell look without being overly dramatic. The pink Versace gown provided the much-needed cool Barbie moment, according to Bobb.

The Oscars red carpet saw a trend of classic silhouettes, standard colors, and soft seafoam hues in mermaid crystal looks. Emma Stone opted for a soft pastel strapless Louis Vuitton gown in mint, while Hailee Steinfeld embraced an ethereal blue-green Elie Saab ensemble with attached wings.

At 92, Rita Moreno showcased her timeless elegance, waving to photographers in a pleated taffeta and velvet gown. Brittany Snow brought a burst of color in a custom Monot dress paired with a statement choker.

Cynthia Erivo made a bold statement in custom Louis Vuitton, wearing an emerald green lamb leather jacket adorned with dinosaur-like spikes. Emily Blunt and John Krasinski coordinated in off-white, embracing an extended silhouette trend of the night.

Anya Taylor-Joy embraced a full-shell look in a sparkly scallop design Dior Haute Couture strapless gown. Da’Vine Roy Randolph donned an A-line pale blue tulle gown from Louis Vuitton, featuring oversized sleeves embellished with tulle fringe.

Ariana Grande made a grand entrance in a puffy pink gown with huge sleeves, complemented by a matching coat. Lily Gladstone stood out in a midnight blue velvet gown paired with a Bulgari necklace featuring turquoise touches and a blue oval tanzanite at the center.

Billie Eilish, sporting a Chanel schoolgirl look, joined others on the red carpet wearing red pins in support of a cease-fire in Gaza.

Men largely stuck to classic black tuxedos, with Colman Domingo standing out in a double-breasted Louis Vuitton look paired with cowboy boots and a jewel-adorned bow tie.

In the realm of bold fashion choices, Charlotte Kemp Muhl donned a backless and near sideless black dress, while Eugene Lee Wang opted for a full ball skirt with a crop jacket. Daniel Scheinert of the Daniels wore a Fashion Brand Company jacket adorned with a snake.

The Oscars red carpet showcased a variety of styles, from classic elegance to bold and avant-garde choices, reflecting the diversity of fashion preferences among the attendees.

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“Oppenheimer” Best Picture, Emma Stone Best Actress at Academy Awards https://updatednews.ca/oppenheimer-best-picture-emma-stone-best-actress-at-academy-awards/ Mon, 11 Mar 2024 09:51:11 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=12053 LOS ANGELES – The solemn three-hour biopic “Oppenheimer” emerged as an unlikely billion-dollar box-office sensation, securing the coveted Best Picture award. The ceremony also marked a long-overdue recognition for Christopher Nolan, the blockbuster’s director, as he received seven awards, including Best Actor for Cillian Murphy, Best Supporting Actor for Robert Downey Jr., and Best Director.

Breaking a decade-long tradition, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences honored a widely seen, big-budget studio film with its top prize. “Oppenheimer” captivated audiences with its intricate portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the creation of the atomic bomb.

In his acceptance speech, Cillian Murphy acknowledged the film’s reflection on the world shaped by Oppenheimer, dedicating the award to peacemakers. The movie, delving into the human capacity for mass destruction, took center stage amid a backdrop of global conflicts, including wars in Gaza and Ukraine, and a looming U.S. election.

The much-anticipated Best Actress award went to Emma Stone for her stellar performance as Bella Baxter in “Poor Things,” triumphing over strong competition, notably Lily Gladstone of “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Stone’s win, her second for Best Actress following her 2019 victory for “La La Land,” solidified her status as a leading actress of her generation.

Christopher Nolan, known for his previous Oscar-nominated works like “Inception” and “Dunkirk,” celebrated his first Academy Award for Best Director. In his speech, Nolan reflected on the relatively short history of cinema, expressing gratitude for being a meaningful part of its ongoing journey.

The ceremony was not without its share of political undertones and protests. Demonstrations for Gaza unfolded outside the Dolby Theatre, where “Oppenheimer,” “The Zone of Interest,” and “20 Days in Mariupol” received awards. Jonathan Glazer, winner for Best International Film with “The Zone of Interest,” drew parallels between his film’s depiction of dehumanization and present-day conflicts.

“Oppenheimer” continued to dominate the night, securing accolades for cinematography, editing, score, and Robert Downey Jr.’s supporting performance. Downey, in his first Oscar win, humorously thanked his “terrible childhood” and the academy.

While last year’s box-office hit “Barbie” garnered significant attention, it took time for the film to secure awards. Ultimately, it won Best Song for Billie Eilish and Finneas’ “What Was I Made For?” The ceremony also saw “The Boy and the Heron” upsetting expectations by winning Best Animated Feature over the favored “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.”

Despite Netflix’s 19 nominations, the streaming giant played a minor role in the awards, winning only for live action short with Wes Anderson’s “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.”

The Oscars’ spotlight on theatrical-first films emphasized a shift away from streaming dominance, and the night concluded with a call from Cord Jefferson, winner of Best Adapted Screenplay for “American Fiction,” urging executives to take risks on young filmmakers.

While “Barbie” triumphed at the box office, it took a back seat to “Oppenheimer” at the Oscars, sparking discussions about the film industry’s dynamics and recognition. The oversight of Greta Gerwig for Best Director fueled conversations about gender bias in the industry, echoing themes depicted in “Barbie.”

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Jennifer Lopez Embraces Love in ‘This Is Me… Now,’ Talks Marriage to Ben Affleck https://updatednews.ca/jennifer-lopez-embraces-love-in-this-is-me-now-talks-marriage-to-ben-affleck/ Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:57:17 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=12006 Jennifer Lopez, in her newly premiered musical film “This Is Me… Now: A Love Story,” explores a journey of growth and love ahead of her upcoming album release on February 15. The film, directed by Dave Meyers, portrays a celestial love story intertwined with astrological themes, reflecting on Lopez’s personal experiences.

In the movie, the 54-year-old artist delves into an astrologically charged quest for love, emphasizing the importance of self-love and inner-child healing. The film is a precursor to her highly anticipated album release, “This Is Me… Now,” the sequel to her 2002 album “This Is Me…Then.”

Lopez, who rekindled her romance with Ben Affleck after nearly two decades, shares her unexpected journey to marriage with the actor. Despite three previous divorces, Lopez expresses her belief in finding true love, stating, “I always believed deep, deep down not to give up completely. It wasn’t until I got to the point where I was really OK on my own that the universe kind of opened up and said, ‘Well, here you go.'”

The singer acknowledges the full-circle moment with her upcoming album, drawing parallels to her previous work during her initial relationship with Affleck. She views “This Is Me…Now” as an opportunity to capture the beauty and inspiration of her current romantic chapter.

Lopez also discusses her astrological compatibility with Affleck, both being Leos. She describes their marriage as “fiery” and “challenging,” emphasizing their passionate and willful nature. The film features a guardian angel council of astrology gods and goddesses played by Trevor Noah, Sofia Vergara, Keke Palmer, Post Malone, Jane Fonda, and others.

“This Is Me… Now: A Love Story,” a 65-minute musical film, premiered on Amazon Prime Video on February 15 alongside the album release. In conjunction with the project, Lopez announced a 30+ city tour, providing fans with an immersive experience of her latest work.

“This Is Me… Now: A Love Story,” a 65-minute musical film, will be available on Amazon Prime Video starting Friday, February 15, coinciding with the release of the accompanying album. Additionally, the singer has unveiled a 30+ city tour in support of the project. Explore the complete list of tour dates provided below.

June 26 — Orlando, FL @ Kia Center
June 28 — Miami, FL @ Kaseya Center
July 2 — Austin, TX @ Moody Center
July 3 — Edinburg, TX @ Bert Ogden Arena*
July 5 — San Antonio, TX @ Frost Bank Center
July 6 — Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center
July 9 — Phoenix, AZ @ Footprint Center
July 11 — Los Angeles, CA @ Kia Forum
July 13 — Anaheim, CA @ Honda Center
July 16 — San Francisco, CA @ Chase Center
July 17 — Sacramento, CA @ Golden 1 Center
July 19 — Palm Springs, CA @ Acrisure Arena
July 20 — Las Vegas, NV @ T-Mobile Arena*
July 22 — Denver, CO @ Ball Arena
July 24 — Tulsa, OK @ BOK Center
July 26 — Rosemont, IL @ Allstate Arena
July 27 — Indianapolis, IN @ Gainbridge Fieldhouse
July 30 — Pittsburgh, PA @ PPG Paints Arena
July 31 — Detroit, MI @ Little Caesars Arena
Aug. 2 | Toronto, ON @ Scotiabank Arena*#
Aug. 5 — Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre*#
Aug. 7 — Boston, MA @ TD Garden
Aug. 9 — Belmont Park, NY @ UBS Arena
Aug. 10 — Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center
Aug. 13 — Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center
Aug. 14 — Washington, DC @ Capital One Arena
Aug. 16 — New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden
Aug. 20 — Cleveland, OH @ Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse*
Aug. 22 — Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena
Aug. 24 — Raleigh, NC @ PNC Arena
Aug. 25 — Atlanta, GA @ State Farm Arena
Aug. 27 — Tampa, FL @ Amalie Arena
Aug. 30 — New Orleans, LA @ Smoothie King Center
Aug. 31 — Houston, TX @ Toyota Center*

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Taylor Swift Declares Travis Kelce’s Serenade as ‘Most Romantic Thing Ever https://updatednews.ca/taylor-swift-declares-travis-kelces-serenade-as-most-romantic-thing-ever/ Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:53:15 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=12003 Taylor Swift said that Travis Kelce‘s viral “You Belong With Me” serenade at the 2024 Super Bowl afterparty Sunday (Feb. 11) was the “most romantic” gesture she’s ever received — and given that she’s a celebrated love-song writer, that’s some high praise.

In a newly surfaced video from the post-game celebration — which was held at a Las Vegas nightclub shortly after the Kansas City Chiefs won 25-22 against the San Francisco 49ers — the “Anti-Hero” singer audibly tells a friend in the crowd that Kelce’s impromptu performance was “the most romantic thing that’s ever happened to me.”

“We met in the middle,” she adds excitedly in the clip as Kelce, standing next to her and the Chainsmokers’ Drew Taggart, kisses her head. “I was like, ‘What is happening?’”

The moment in question came when the afterparty’s DJ started playing a remix of Swift’s 2008 smash. Kelce jumped up onstage, singled out the 14-time Grammy winner in the crowd and excitedly belted his girlfriend’s lyrics to her as the pair lovingly pointed at each other.

“They played it and I was literally coming out of the bathroom,” Kelce tells Taggart and Swift in the new video. “I was like, ‘Yes!’ It was perfect timing.”

At another point in the party, the tight end and Swift danced and sang along to another of the pop star’s Fearless era hits, “Love Story,” together. Videos captured Kelce pointing at himself during the lyric “you be the prince” before gesturing to Swift on the next line, “you be the princess.”

Then, after smiling while mouthing the lyrics “It’s a love story, baby just say yes,” the “Karma” musician – wearing Kelce’s jacket – wrapped her arms around the football star’s neck and kissed him.

Watch Swift gush about Kelce’s “You Belong With Me” serenade below.

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Taylor Swift Arrives in Baltimore for AFC Championship, Stirring Controversy Over Jet Emissions https://updatednews.ca/taylor-swift-arrives-in-baltimore-for-afc-championship-stirring-controversy-over-jet-emissions/ Sun, 28 Jan 2024 21:50:55 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=11848 Pop icon Taylor Swift’s arrival in Baltimore for the AFC Championship game to support her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, has ignited controversy over the environmental impact of her private jet travel. Swift’s Dassault Falcon 7X journey from New Jersey to Baltimore, covering a mere 164 miles, reportedly generated three tons of CO2 emissions and cost $1,328 for 1,589 lbs of jet fuel.

According to a Reddit thread tracking Swift’s jet movements, her flights to NFL games over three months have resulted in 138 tons of emissions, positioning her as one of the highest carbon-emitting celebrities globally. A representative for Swift defended her environmental practices, stating she had purchased double the required carbon credits for her Eras tour, aiming to offset her personal emissions.

Critics argue that carbon offsets, referred to as “climate indulgences,” often serve as symbolic gestures rather than effective emissions reduction strategies. The Wall Street Journal editorial board contends that these offsets allow companies and individuals to virtue signal without significantly contributing to emission reduction.

In 2023, Swift’s jet reportedly had an average flight time of 80 minutes, producing over 1194 times more carbon emissions than the average person. Swift’s representative countered claims, noting that her jet is frequently loaned to others, challenging attributions of all trips solely to Swift.

In 2022, Swift faced criticism as the world’s most polluting celebrity, generating 8,240 metric tons of flight emissions—1,185 times more than the average person’s annual emissions—according to sustainability marketing agency Yard. Despite such scrutiny, Swift’s environmental practices remain a subject of ongoing debate and discussion.

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Snoop Dogg Expresses ‘Love and Respect’ for Donald Trump https://updatednews.ca/snoop-dogg-expresses-love-and-respect-for-donald-trump/ Sun, 28 Jan 2024 21:38:22 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=11845 Renowned rapper and advocate for equity, Snoop Dogg, has surprised many with his recent positive remarks about former President Donald Trump. In a new interview, the 52-year-old artist, who had a history of criticizing Trump, shared his appreciation for the former president’s actions, particularly highlighting Trump’s pardon of Michael “Harry-O” Harris.

Snoop Dogg expressed gratitude toward Trump, stating, “Donald Trump?… He ain’t done nothing wrong to me. He has done only great things for me. He pardoned Michael Harris.” Harris, an associate of Death Row Records co-founder Suge Knight, had been imprisoned for conspiracy and attempted murder for over three decades.

The rapper’s change in perspective is noteworthy given his past criticism of Trump, notably depicted in his 2017 music video for “Lavender,” where he portrayed Trump as a clown and shot him in the head. In 2020, Snoop Dogg publicly denounced Trump and his supporters, calling the former president a “weirdo.”

However, Trump’s commutation of Harris seemed to have shifted Snoop Dogg’s stance. In 2021, he praised the president for the decision, expressing appreciation for the “great work for the president and his team on the way out.”

Snoop Dogg’s recent comments reflect a significant departure from his previous outspoken criticism during Trump’s presidency. Known for his engagement in politics, the rapper had previously shared his views on social media, notably in 2012 when he explained his decision to support Barack Obama over Mitt Romney in the presidential election.

When asked if he would similarly express his views in the event of a Trump vs. Joe Biden presidential race, Snoop Dogg remained non-committal, stating, “I may have to, because there are mixed views on that, so I want to see what the people say…” The rapper’s evolving stance adds an intriguing dimension to his political engagement and perspectives on prominent figures in American politics.

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Taylor Swift May Attend Super Bowl if Chiefs Advance, Despite Japan Concert https://updatednews.ca/taylor-swift-may-attend-super-bowl-if-chiefs-advance-despite-japan-concert/ Sun, 28 Jan 2024 21:17:25 +0000 https://updatednews.ca/?p=11837 Pop sensation Taylor Swift seems determined to support her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, and the Kansas City Chiefs at the Super Bowl if they make it to the championship game. Swift, who has been attending Kelce’s games in the past month, including the AFC Championship Game against the Ravens, reportedly intends to fly from her scheduled concert in Tokyo on Feb. 10 to Las Vegas for the Super Bowl the following night.

Having wrapped up the international leg of her “Eras Tour” in November, Swift has been a regular presence at Kelce’s games during the latter part of the NFL season and playoffs. Despite a concert commitment in Japan, she plans to catch the end of the Super Bowl, arriving in Las Vegas around 7 p.m. local time if she takes a direct flight from Tokyo.

Kelce, a key player for the Chiefs, is seeking his third career Lombardi Trophy and his second consecutive Super Bowl win. Swift’s commitment to supporting her “guy on the Chiefs” underscores the unique intersection of pop culture and sports, adding an extra layer of excitement as the Chiefs aim to secure their spot in the Super Bowl. However, the outcome of the AFC Championship Game against the Ravens will determine whether Swift’s plans come to fruition.

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