Showbiz
Sean 'Diddy' Combs Seeks Immediate Release from Prison, Appeals Conviction
Lawyers for hip-hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs have urged a federal appeals court in New York to order his immediate release from prison and reverse his conviction on prostitution-related charges. Combs, 56, was convicted under the Mann Act, which bans transporting people across state lines for any sexual crime, and sentenced to four years and two months in prison. His lawyers argue that the judge who sentenced him, Arun Subramanian, acted like a "thirteenth juror" and let evidence surrounding acquitted charges influence the punishment. They claim that Combs was treated harshly and that the sentence was excessive, noting that defendants typically receive less than 15 months for similar offenses. Combs was acquitted of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking at a trial that ended in July, but was convicted of two lesser counts of prostitution offenses. His lawyers argue that the judge's findings at sentencing, which included that Combs "coerced," "exploited," and "forced" his girlfriends to have sex, trumped the jury's verdict and led to an excessive sentence. The appeals court has not yet heard oral arguments in the case. Combs is currently incarcerated at a federal prison in New Jersey and is scheduled for release in May 2028.
Ralph Fiennes Stars in 'The Choral,' a WWI Drama About Finding Hope Through Music
The new film "The Choral" tells the story of a northern English town that loses its best choral singers to fighting in World War I. The town finds new hope in a time of loss through music, led by Henry Guthrie, played by Ralph Fiennes, an uncompromising musician who overhauls the struggling local choir. Director Nicholas Hytner explains that music is an expression of community and a way to survive, insisting that there are ways to get through the disaster without collapsing into complete despair. The film is set in 1916, during the midst of World War I, and follows the town's choir as they recruit women and men either too young or too old to fight. They perform Edward Elgar's The Dream of Gerontius, which lifts the town's spirits. Fiennes notes that making music together can take people to another plane, and Hytner says that the story felt cinematic in structure and needed to be present in a way that only film can do. The Choral marks the fourth screen collaboration between director Hytner and writer Alan Bennett, but the first intended as a film from the start. The film began development in March 2020, and Hytner says that the First World War serves as a template for everything artists have wanted to say about what war does to us. The film features a talented cast, including Simon Russell Beale as Edward Elgar, and is a powerful exploration of the impact of war on a community and the role of music in bringing people together.
Will Arnett Takes on Dramatic Role in "Is This Thing On?"
Will Arnett, known for his comedic roles in "Arrested Development" and "30 Rock," is taking on a more dramatic role in the upcoming film "Is This Thing On?" The movie, directed by Bradley Cooper, tells the story of a man who processes his marital separation onstage at open mic nights. Arnett was inspired by the true story of British comedian John Bishop, who used stand-up comedy to work through his emotions during a difficult time in his marriage. Arnett and writer Mark Chappell adapted Bishop's story for the film, which also stars Laura Dern as Arnett's character's wife. To prepare for the role, Arnett tried his hand at stand-up comedy, performing at Manhattan's Comedy Cellar and using the experience to inform his character's development. The film marks a departure from Arnett's typical comedic roles, showcasing his range as an actor. Cooper's direction brings a level of vulnerability and authenticity to the story, exploring the breakdown of communication in relationships. Arnett credits the film's success to the understanding that life's biggest moments often happen in mundane settings, without buildup or fanfare. With "Is This Thing On?", Arnett proves himself to be a talented dramatic actor, bringing a new level of depth to his performances.
Rob Reiner and Wife Michele's Death Certificates Reveal Cause of Death
Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead in their Brentwood, Los Angeles home on December 14. According to their death certificates, obtained by TMZ, the cause of death for both was "multiple sharp force injuries" with the circumstances described as "homicide" and "with knife, by another". The certificates also reveal that the interval between the onset of the attack and death was just "minutes". Rob Reiner's body was found at 15:45, and Michele Singer Reiner's at 15:46. The couple's children, Jake and Romy Reiner, have announced that they are planning a memorial service for their parents, although no date has been set. Their brother, Nick Reiner, appeared in court on December 17 but did not enter a plea, and is due to return to court for an arraignment hearing on January 7. The family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received. Further details about the incident are still emerging, but the death certificates provide some insight into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Rob Reiner and his wife. The investigation is ongoing, and more information is expected to be released in the coming weeks.
"Song Sung Blue" Offers Corny Comfort Cinema with Bittersweet Notes
The movie "Song Sung Blue" is a biopic about a husband-and-wife Neil Diamond cover band, Lightning & Thunder, who gained fame in 1990s Milwaukee. Starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, the film features over a dozen Neil Diamond hits, including "Forever in Blue Jeans" and "Holly Holy." Written and directed by Craig Brewer, the movie is based on a 2008 documentary of the same name and tells the story of Mike and Claire Sardina's rise to fame and their struggles with relationships and identity. The film has a quirky charm, with Jackman and Hudson delivering strong performances as the lead characters. The movie's soundtrack is packed with Neil Diamond's iconic songs, making it a treat for fans of the musician. However, the dialogue can be cheesy at times, and the plot is predictable, following a typical rise-and-fall arc. Despite its flaws, "Song Sung Blue" has a certain depth, exploring the limitations of being a cover band and the challenges of achieving fame. The film also touches on themes of love, family, and identity, making it a heartwarming and engaging watch. With its blend of music, drama, and comedy, "Song Sung Blue" is a corny comfort cinema that will leave audiences humming Neil Diamond's tunes and rooting for the lovable but flawed characters. The movie features a talented supporting cast, including King Princess, Hudson Hensley, and Ella Anderson, who play the roles of Mike and Claire's children. The film's cinematography and production design also deserve praise, capturing the essence of 1990s Milwaukee and the world of cover bands. Overall, "Song Sung Blue" is a charming and entertaining film that will appeal to fans of music, drama, and comedy.
Stranger Things Season 5 Volume 2 Episode Runtimes Revealed
The final season of Stranger Things is nearing its conclusion, and co-creator Ross Duffer has announced the runtimes for the last three episodes. Stranger Things 5 Vol. 2, which consists of episodes 5, 6, and 7, will have a total runtime of approximately three and a half hours. The individual episode runtimes are: Episode 5 "Shock Jock" at 1 hour 8 minutes, Episode 6 "Escape From Camazotz" at 1 hour 15 minutes, and Episode 7 "The Bridge" at 1 hour 6 minutes. Ross Duffer also updated the runtime for the series finale, "Stranger Things: The Finale — The Rightside Up", which will now run for 2 hours and 8 minutes, instead of the previously announced 2 hours and 5 minutes. The co-creator had previously shared details about the Vol. 2 episodes, describing "Shock Jock" as "far darker and far scarier" than writer Frank Darabont's previous episode, and "Escape From Camazotz" as the biggest episode of the three, with performances that make the creators cry every time they watch it. The highly anticipated series finale will stream on Netflix and play in 500 movie theaters across the country on December 31 at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET. Vol. 2 is set to release on Christmas Day. The Duffer Brothers have spoken about balancing the sci-fi and humanity aspects of the show, aiming to create a "sweet spot" where visual effects and emotional climaxes collide simultaneously.
NYT Connections Puzzle Answers for Dec. 24, #927
The New York Times Connections puzzle for Dec. 24, #927, has been solved. The puzzle requires players to find hidden words inside other words. The answers are categorized into four groups: yellow, green, blue, and purple. The yellow group's theme is slang for money, with answers including bacon, bread, cheese, and paper. The green group's theme is masticate, with answers such as bite, champ, chew, and munch. The blue group's theme is fish, with answers like char, pollock, sole, and tang. The purple group's theme is ways to vocalize musically plus a letter, with answers including hump (hum), rapt (rap), singe (sing), and whistler (whistle). Players can check their progress and receive a numeric score using the Times' Connections Bot. Registered players can also track their win rate, number of puzzles completed, and win streak. For more information and hints on solving the puzzle, players can refer to the provided resources, including tips and strategies for winning at NYT Connections. The completed puzzle is available for reference, and players can find more gaming guides and content on the CNET website.
Taylor Swift Donates $1 Million to Feeding America
Taylor Swift has donated $1 million to Feeding America, a nonprofit that oversees a network of food banks, food pantries, and local meal programs. The donation comes just days before Christmas and has been welcomed by Feeding America CEO Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, who expressed gratitude for the gift. According to Babineaux-Fontenot, this holiday season is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people unite to end hunger. Roughly 14% of U.S. households reported being food insecure between January and October of 2025, highlighting the need for support. Feeding America has been seeing more demand than it can keep up with, with Babineaux-Fontenot stating that "the lines are longer than the food that is available." This is not the first time Swift has made headlines for her donations, having previously donated $100,000 to the family of a local radio host and $1 million to Tennessee tornado relief in 2023. Swift has also gifted large bonuses to crew members who were part of her record-breaking Eras Tour.
Kennedy Center Honors Broadcast Retains Original Name Despite Trump's Suggested Change
The Kennedy Center Honors, broadcast on CBS, retained its original name despite President Donald Trump's recent suggestion to change it to the "Trump Kennedy Center." The broadcast, recorded on December 7, premiered with the cultural institution's long-standing title, and Trump's opening remarks were pared down from 12 minutes to two minutes, omitting some of his jokes. The honorees for the 48th iteration of the awards included Sylvester Stallone, Michael Crawford, George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, and the glam metal band Kiss. Behind the scenes, CBS News's standards department instructed staffers to maintain the original Kennedy Center name, as any official name change would require Congressional approval. Trump, however, posted on his social media platform Truth Social, referring to the event as "THE TRUMP KENNEDY CENTER HONORS." The broadcast featured tributes to the honorees, including a medley of "Rocky" performances for Stallone and a performance of Gaynor's anthem "I Will Survive." The night ended with tributes to Kiss and a performance of their biggest hit "Rock and Roll All Nite," which got much of the audience on their feet dancing. The event was marked by limited appearances from Trump, who introduced remaining honorees in video segments prerecorded from the Oval Office. The broadcast also included a trailer for an upcoming documentary about first lady Melania Trump, which is set to have its red carpet premiere at the Kennedy Center. The Kennedy Center's name change has been a point of contention, with Trump's board voting for the change last week. However, the official name change would require Congressional approval, and CBS News has chosen to maintain the original name in their coverage. The Kennedy Center Honors is an annual event that recognizes the lifetime achievements of prominent artists and performers. This year's honorees were recognized for their contributions to the world of arts and entertainment. The event was a celebration of the arts, with performances and tributes to the honorees. The broadcast was watched by millions, and the event was marked by a sense of excitement and appreciation for the arts. Overall, the Kennedy Center Honors was a successful event that recognized the achievements of prominent artists and performers. The broadcast was a celebration of the arts, and it was marked by a sense of excitement and appreciation for the arts.
Rob Reiner and Wife's Death Certificates Reveal Cause of Death
Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife Michele, 70, died "minutes" after sustaining "multiple sharp force injuries" from a knife, according to their official death certificates. The couple was found dead on December 14 in their Brentwood home, with Rob discovered at 3:45 p.m. and Michele at 3:46 p.m. Their son Nick, 32, has been arrested and charged with two counts of murder. The death certificates list the cause of death as "with [a] knife, by another" and note that the time between the attack and death was "minutes." Rob and Michele have since been cremated. The couple met while Rob was directing the rom-com "When Harry Met Sally" and got married in 1989. They had three children together, Nick, Romy, and Jake, and Rob also adopted a daughter, Tracy, from his first marriage. Their children, Jake and Romy, released a statement expressing their grief and gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. They announced that a memorial service honoring Rob and Michele will be held "at a later date." Rob Reiner was a renowned actor and director, known for his work on films like "This Is Spinal Tap," "When Harry Met Sally," and "A Few Good Men." Rob's most recent film, "Spinal Tap II: The End Continues," was released earlier this year. He was the son of famed writer-director-comedian Carl Reiner and starred in the 1971 sitcom "All in the Family" before pursuing a career in directing.
Variety's Picks for the Worst TV Shows of 2025
As the year comes to a close, Variety TV critics Alison Herman and Aramide Tinubu have identified eight series that failed to capture their attention or imagination. The list includes spinoffs and stale IP, as well as promising premises that failed to capitalize on their name-brand stars and intriguing concepts. The worst TV shows of 2025 include "Countdown" (Prime Video), a lackluster procedural that follows an elite task force; "Pulse" (Netflix), a hospital drama that crashes and burns amid its horrid depiction of sexual harassment; and "Prime Target" (Apple TV+), an espionage thriller that relies too heavily on mathematics and side characters. Other shows that made the list are "The Runarounds" (Prime Video), a YA music drama that is bogged down by baffling plot points; "Sheriff Country" (CBS), a spinoff that displays little sign of its predecessor's proven appeal; "Suits LA" (NBC), a remake that lacks the original magic and intrigue; "The Terminal List: Dark Wolf" (Prime Video), a prequel that suffers from a blatant mismatch between its premise and execution; and "Zero Day" (Netflix), a limited series starring Robert De Niro that is milquetoast and forgettable. Several of these shows have already been canceled, suggesting that the critics' assessment is not alone. With so many new shows to navigate, it's a relief to have a guide to what to avoid. Whether you agree or disagree with the critics' picks, one thing is clear: there's always room for improvement in the world of television.
King Charles III to Deliver Christmas Message from Westminster Abbey
King Charles III will deliver his traditional Christmas message from Westminster Abbey's Lady Chapel. The speech, filmed in the medieval church in central London, is expected to focus on the "pilgrimage" of life and the lessons it can teach about current issues. The King's message will be broadcast at 15:00 on Christmas Day. This year's setting is significant, as it is below the Lady Chapel's famous medieval vaulted ceiling, where 15 previous kings and queens are buried, including Elizabeth I, Mary I, and Charles II. The King will be seen standing in front of Christmas trees that were brought to decorate the Abbey for the Princess of Wales's carol concert held earlier this month. Westminster Abbey was also the venue for the King's recent Advent service, where there were prayers and music from different Christian traditions. The tradition of an annual Christmas broadcast from the monarch dates back to 1932, when George V delivered a speech on the radio. The first televised Christmas speech was delivered by Elizabeth II in 1957, and it's usually among the most-watched programs on Christmas Day. The King's decision to deliver his message from Westminster Abbey reflects his efforts to build bridges between people of different faiths and backgrounds. The Abbey has strong connections to the King's causes, and the setting is a symbolic location for his message. The King's Christmas speech is highly anticipated, and those interested can sign up for the Royal Watch newsletter to get the latest royal stories and analysis every week.
2025 Beauty Trends: From Canine Cosmetics to Body Positivity
The year 2025 was marked by extremes in beauty culture, with a push towards "low maintenance" routines and a widening scope of beauty that included previously undiscussed body parts. The industry saw the rise of canine beauty, with luxury shampoos and skincare lines for dogs. Jessica DeFino, a beauty writer, notes that the pet grooming industry is expected to grow over 7% annually through 2030, potentially outpacing the growth of beauty products for people. DeFino also suggests that the trend of dog beauty may be a subconscious coping mechanism for women, who are increasingly feeling pressured to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. Meanwhile, Sable Yong, a freelance writer, observes that there has been a shift towards cosmetic transparency, with celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Simone Biles openly discussing their aesthetic treatments and procedures. However, this increased transparency has also raised the bar for acceptable appearances, making it more expensive and exclusive. Another trend that emerged in 2025 was the "full bush agenda," with women embracing and accepting their natural body hair. Alex Peters, beauty director at Dazed magazine, notes that this conversation has been a welcome bit of body positivity in a beauty landscape that often feels bleak. The trend has been reflected in fashion, with designers like Kim Shui and Acne Studio featuring looks that reference pubic hair. Overall, 2025 was a year of contradictions in the beauty industry, with a mix of low-maintenance and high-maintenance trends, and a growing emphasis on body positivity and self-acceptance.
Venus Williams and Andrea Preti's Intimate Five-Day Wedding Celebration in Palm Beach
Tennis legend Venus Williams and actor, producer, and model Andrea Preti tied the knot in an intimate five-day wedding celebration at their home in Palm Beach. The couple first met in 2024 during Milan Fashion Week, where they were introduced by Gucci's former creative director Sabato De Sarno. After a whirlwind romance, they got engaged in Tuscany on January 31, 2025. Due to paperwork delays, they decided to have two weddings - the first in Ischia, Italy, and the second in Palm Beach, which focused on Venus's Florida roots. The Palm Beach wedding was planned by Jennifer Zabinski of JZ Events and featured a week-long itinerary with close family and friends. The celebration included a yacht party courtesy of Venus's sister Serena, who also arranged the food and entertainment. Venus and Andrea's love story began with a chance meeting, and they quickly connected over their shared interests and values. Despite facing challenges, including Venus's diagnosis with adenomyoma, the couple found support and comfort in each other. Their wedding celebration was a testament to their love and commitment to each other.
Chris Evans Returns as Captain America in Avengers: Doomsday Teaser Trailer
The first official teaser trailer for Avengers: Doomsday has been released, revealing Chris Evans' return as Captain America. The teaser shows Steve Rogers riding a motorcycle up to a farmhouse, holding a newborn baby, and pulling out his Captain America suit from storage. The scene is set to the "Avengers" theme music and ends with the text "Steve Rogers will return in Avengers: Doomsday" on a black screen. This return comes after Evans previously stated he was "happily retired" from the role. The Russo brothers, who are directing the film, expressed their excitement about the character's return on Instagram. The last time Captain America was seen on screen was in 2019's Avengers: Endgame, where Steve Rogers passed the shield to Sam Wilson. Avengers: Doomsday is set to be released in theaters on December 18, 2026. A Thor-focused teaser has also allegedly surfaced online, and a Spider-Man film, "Spider-Man: Brand New Day", has recently wrapped shooting. Additionally, Avengers: Endgame is scheduled to be rereleased in 2026 ahead of Avengers: Doomsday.
Three Broadway Shows Close on December 21, 2025
Today, December 21, 2025, marks the final performances of three Broadway productions: Art, The Queen of Versailles, and Little Bear Ridge Road. Art, which opened on September 16, 2025, at the Music Box Theatre, stars Tony Award nominees Bobby Cannavale, James Corden, and Neil Patrick Harris. The play, directed by Scott Ellis, is a comedy about three friends debating the value of a ridiculously expensive painting. The Queen of Versailles, which opened on November 9, 2025, at the St. James Theatre, is a musical directed by Tony Award winner Michael Arden with music and lyrics by Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz. The show, which was initially set to close on January 4, 2026, stars Kristin Chenoweth and F. Murray Abraham. Little Bear Ridge Road, a new play by Samuel D. Hunter, opened on October 30, 2025, at the Booth Theatre and was originally set to conclude its limited engagement on February 15, 2026. The production, directed by Tony Award winner Joe Mantello, stars Laurie Metcalf and Micah Stock. The theatres will soon be home to new productions, including Giant, Titanique, and Proof. It's not uncommon for shows to close in December and January, and the closing of these three productions marks the end of their runs on Broadway.
Former Child Star Offered Help by Fellow Actor After Viral Homelessness Video
Tylor Chase, a former Nickelodeon star known for his role in "Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide," was recently spotted living on the streets of Riverside in a viral video. The video caught the attention of Shaun Weiss, who played "Goldberg" in "The Mighty Ducks." Weiss, who has struggled with sobriety himself, is now offering help to Chase. He has arranged for a bed at a detox facility and a place for long-term treatment, but needs to locate Chase to provide the assistance. Weiss expressed empathy for Chase, stating that recovery is possible. Weiss took to video to announce his offer, saying he wishes he could search for Chase himself but is currently not in Los Angeles. The situation highlights the challenges of homelessness and addiction, as well as the importance of support and second chances. Weiss's gesture demonstrates a sense of community and understanding among those who have faced similar struggles. Efforts are now focused on finding Chase and connecting him with the resources Weiss has made available.
Russell Brand Charged with Additional Rape and Sexual Assault Offences
Russell Brand has been charged with two further offences, including one count of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to two additional women. The Metropolitan Police stated that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has authorised these new charges. Brand, 50, previously pleaded not guilty to five charges, including two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of indecent assault, in relation to four women. The new charges allegedly took place in 2009 and are separate from the original five charges, which allegedly occurred between 1999 and 2005 in central London and Bournemouth. A trial for the original charges is set to start at Southwark Crown Court on 16 June 2026. Brand is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 20 January 2026 in relation to the two new charges. The investigation into Brand began after allegations were reported by the Sunday Times, the Times, and Channel 4's Dispatches in September 2023. The women who have made reports are receiving support from specially trained officers, according to Detective Chief Inspector Tariq Farooqi from the Metropolitan Police. Brand, who was born in Essex, rose to fame as a stand-up comedian and established a career in Hollywood, starring in films like Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him To The Greek.
Taylor Swift Documentary Series Offers Glimpse into Eras Tour, but Lacks Depth
The documentary series Taylor Swift: The End of an Era provides a behind-the-scenes look at the singer's record-breaking Eras tour. The six-part series begins with a riveting episode that explores the aftermath of a foiled Islamic State plot to target her concerts in Vienna. However, the subsequent episodes feel repetitive and thinly stretched, with too little jeopardy or challenge. The series focuses on the tour's final months, which were marked by Swift's happiness and security in her relationship with NFL star Travis Kelce. The documentary attempts to engineer tension, but it often falls flat. Instead, it showcases Swift's military precision in delivering a three-and-a-half-hour show for 18 months. The series also highlights the diversity of her dancers and the bonuses she gave to her crew, which totaled $197m. While it provides some insight into Swift's creative process, it glosses over more personal and potentially fraught topics, such as her failed romantic relationships. Ultimately, the series feels like an act of brand consolidation, presenting Swift's team as a big happy "family" while underlining her status as a corporation with corporate interests. The most compelling moments are those that showcase Swift's musicianship and ability to craft emotional moments, such as her surprise song mashups. However, the series raises questions about what this kind of undertaking offers Swift herself, beyond financial success and business practicalities.
Barry Manilow Diagnosed with Lung Cancer, Reschedules January Concerts
Barry Manilow, the 82-year-old singer, has announced that he has been diagnosed with lung cancer. The diagnosis was made after an MRI discovered a cancerous spot on his left lung. Manilow shared the news on social media, stating that he will undergo surgery in late December to remove the cancerous spot. He attributed the early detection to "pure luck" and a great doctor. The singer will require a month of recovery after surgery, during which time his January arena concerts will be rescheduled. According to Manilow, the doctors do not believe the cancer has spread, and he will not require chemotherapy or radiation treatment. He encouraged his followers to get checked out if they have any symptoms and wished them a happy holiday. Manilow's new concert dates will be held from February to April. He apologized for any inconvenience caused by the rescheduling and expressed his disappointment at having to move the shows. The singer is known for his hit songs and has a dedicated fan base. His health update has sparked an outpouring of support from fans and fellow musicians alike.