<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"><channel><title>Entertainment</title><description></description><atom:link href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/api/v1/collections/entertainment.rss" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"></atom:link><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com</link><language>en-us</language><lastBuildDate>Sat, 06 Jun 2026 05:54:55 +0000</lastBuildDate><item><title>&apos;Put your hands up for my LOLO&apos;: Kareena Kapoor cheers Karisma after &apos;Brown&apos; screening</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/kareena-kapoor-cheers-karisma-brown-screening</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/kareena-kapoor-cheers-karisma-brown-screening#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">9ebb0333-2d14-4b44-9c0d-11270469ade7</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2026 13:11:29 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-05T13:11:29.305Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ On Thursday, Kareena, Karisma and Saif attended the special screening of Karisma Kapoor&apos;s upcoming web series &apos;Brown&apos;. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1200" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/ym3q6c08/ANI_20260605064736.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Karisma Kapoor (left), Kareena Kapoor </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/ym3q6c08/ANI_20260605064736.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Actor Kareena Kapoor Khan has dropped a series of pictures with her "mains", husband Saif Ali Khan and sister Karisma Kapoor. </p><p>On Thursday, the trio attended the special screening of Karisma Kapoor's upcoming web series 'Brown'. </p><p>Sharing glimpses from the event, Kareena could be seen giving a shoutout to her sister on Instagram. </p><figure><img src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/8e8thmpu/ANI_20260605063459.png" /></figure><p>Along with a picture of herself posing with Karisma and Saif, Kareena wrote, "No one like LOLO. Put your hands up for my LOLO. @therealkarismakapoor."</p><figure><img src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/0it1aqxl/ANI_20260605063508.png" /></figure><p>With another picture, he added, "With my mains."</p><p>For the evening, Karisma opted for a black outfit paired with a long, patterned coat, while Kareena looked stunning in a traditional ensemble. Saif kept it classic in an all-black outfit as the trio posed for the media at the event.</p><p>Headlined by Karisma Kapoor in the role of a cop, the series also features Surya Sharma, Jisshu Sengupta, and Soni Razdan in pivotal roles.</p><p>Filmmaker Sudhir Mishra was also present at the event.</p><p>Actor-singer Meiyang Chang and several other industry personalities joined the screening, adding to the glamour of the evening.</p><p>As per the makers, <em><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/karisma-kapoor-brown-ott-series-cop-gen-z-fans">Brown</a></em> is a "neo-noir psychological crime thriller set against the haunting beauty and moral chaos of Kolkata. At its centre is Rita Brown (played by Karisma Kapoor), once the city's finest cop, now a disgraced, alcoholic officer haunted by past."</p><p>Directed by Abhinay Deo and produced by Zee Studios, <em>Brown </em>will premiere on June 12 exclusively on ZEE5 Middle East. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/karisma-kapoor-brown-ott-series-cop-gen-z-fans">Karisma Kapoor embraces gritty OTT role in 'Brown': 'I would not wash my hair for days'</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/look-karisma-kapoor-has-her-bridgerton-moment-in-dubai">Look: Karisma Kapoor has her 'Bridgerton' moment in Dubai</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/karisma-kapoor-wishes-precious-sister-kareena-on-her-birthday-2">Karisma Kapoor wishes 'precious sister' Kareena on her birthday</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Shakira, Burna Boy set to bring &apos;Dai Dai&apos; magic at 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-burna-boy-dai-dai-2026-fifa-world-cup-opening-ceremony</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-burna-boy-dai-dai-2026-fifa-world-cup-opening-ceremony#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">a028f05f-ad7e-4743-8183-9368c11bd20b</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2026 12:35:09 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-05T12:35:09.519Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ &lt;p&gt;Mexico is all set to open the upcoming edition of the FIFA World Cup on June 11, 2026, at the Mexico City Stadium.&lt;/p&gt;]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1200" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/l415le1a/ANI_20260605021131.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Shakira (left), Burna Boy </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/l415le1a/ANI_20260605021131.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Pop icon Shakira, along with Nigerian sensation Burna Boy, are set to perform at the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. </p><p>As announced by FIFA on their official social media handle, the artists will join a star-studded lineup on the global stage, taking the excitement to the next level among fans and enthusiasts. </p><figure><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dai Dai  <a href="https://x.com/shakira?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shakira</a> and <a href="https://x.com/burnaboy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@burnaboy</a> will join a star-studded lineup on the global stage at the <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> opening ceremony in Mexico City!</p>
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://x.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/2062652763071222237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2026</a></blockquote></figure><figure><script src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js"></script></figure><p>"Dai Dai @shakira and @burnaboy will join a star-studded lineup on the global stage at the #FIFAWorldCup opening ceremony in Mexico City!" read the caption on the post. </p><p>Mexico is all set to open the upcoming edition of the FIFA World Cup on June 11, 2026, at the Mexico City Stadium. </p><p>It is worth mentioning that Shakira and Burno Boy are already helming the official song of FIFA 2026. </p><p>Shot in Miami and directed by Hannah Lux Davis, the video begins with Shakira standing at the top of Mexico City's iconic Angel of Independence before transitioning to scenes of her dancing in a desert landscape alongside a group of African children. It was followed by the introduction of Burna Boy.</p><figure><script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYr_dnsqF74/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding: 16px;">
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div>
<div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div>
</div>
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYr_dnsqF74/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" rel="noopener" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Shakira (@shakira)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote></figure><p>'Dai Dai' audio, which was released on May 16, marks Shakira's latest association with football after the global success of her past tournament anthem, 'Waka Waka'.</p><p>Shakira is also set to co-headline the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show on July 19 at the New York-New Jersey Stadium.</p><p>This arrived after the recent unveiling of the complete artist lineup for the Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Album, announcing an 18-track project that brings together some of the biggest names in global music ahead of the upcoming tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico.</p><p>The album, scheduled for release on June 5, is now available for pre-save across streaming platforms. FIFA described the project as the most extensive multi-track music and culture initiative ever created for a FIFA World Cup.</p><p>The FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-unveils-2026-fifa-world-cup-song-dai-dai-3">Shakira unveils 2026 FIFA World Cup song 'Dai Dai' </a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-fifa-2026-song-video-messi-ronaldo">Shakira drops FIFA 2026 anthem video featuring Messi, Mbappe and Ronaldo</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-dances-with-viral-dance-troupe-ghetto-kids-after-world-cup-invitation">Shakira dances with viral dance troupe Ghetto Kids after World Cup invitation</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/bts-madonna-shakira-headline-world-cup-final-half-time-show">BTS, Madonna, Shakira to headline World Cup final half-time show</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>&apos;That was hilarious&apos;: Jennifer Aniston recalls Brad Pitt&apos;s memorable &apos;Friends&apos; cameo</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/jennifer-aniston-recalls-brad-pitt-friends-cameo</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/jennifer-aniston-recalls-brad-pitt-friends-cameo#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">9898cb9a-47f3-4684-8411-61b87a287211</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2026 12:29:52 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-05T12:29:52.192Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Actor Jennifer Aniston made a rare public comment about her ex-husband Brad Pitt while looking back on some of the most memorable guest appearances on the hit sitcom &apos;Friends&apos;, according to E! News. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="391" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/actfcs1v/3f3b5008_aa6e_4b0f_98b9_d06b874870ed_org.png" width="799"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"><![CDATA[ Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, fundraiser, Hollywood]]></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/actfcs1v/3f3b5008_aa6e_4b0f_98b9_d06b874870ed_org.png?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Actor Jennifer Aniston made a rare reference to her ex-husband Brad Pitt while reflecting on some of the most memorable guest appearances on the hit sitcom <em>Friends</em>. </p><p>During a joint interview with her former co-star Lisa Kudrow for <em>Variety</em>'s Actors on Actors, Aniston reflected on the show's popular Thanksgiving episodes and Pitt's guest appearance in one of them.</p><p>"Those were great, the Thanksgiving episodes," Kudrow said. "When Brad was on, that was hilarious," according to <em>E! News.</em> </p><p>"I know," Aniston replied. "How funny."</p><p>The conversation turned to the many high-profile actors who appeared on the sitcom over its 10-season run. Aniston recalled the long list of Hollywood stars who made guest appearances on the show.</p><p>"Brad, Bruce Willis, Julia Roberts, Isabella Rossellini," she said. "We had so many... Sean Penn."</p><p>Despite their experience in film and television, Aniston said many of the guest stars arrived on set feeling nervous.</p><p>"They were always nervous," she said, adding, "I always found it fascinating how nervous they were."</p><p>Kudrow suggested that the unique tone of <em>Friends</em> may have contributed to their uncertainty.</p><p>"Well, because what's the tone?" Kudrow said. "It's not theatre; it's for TV. It's not a movie. What the hell is this? And it's a good question."</p><p>Recalling how she would explain it to guest stars, Kudrow added, "I remember someone asked one time. I didn't know how to explain it, so I said, 'Oh, just talk louder. Same intention, just..'"</p><p>Aniston quickly completed the sentence, saying, "Just louder!"</p><p>Pitt made a memorable appearance on <em>Friends</em> during his marriage to Aniston, whom he was married to from 2000 to 2005. He guest-starred in the season eight Thanksgiving episode titled 'The One with the Rumor' in 2001.</p><p>In the episode, Pitt played Will Colbert, a former classmate who harboured a deep dislike for Rachel Green, Aniston's character. His character was even part of an "I Hate Rachel" club alongside Ross Geller, played by David Schwimmer.</p><p>Although Aniston and Pitt divorced in 2005 after five years of marriage, the two have remained on cordial terms over the years.</p><p>Pitt is not the only former partner with whom Aniston has maintained a friendly relationship. The actress recently showed support for her former husband Justin Theroux after he and his wife Nicole Brydon Bloom welcomed their first child in April, liking the couple's joint Instagram announcement.</p><p>Aniston has also spoken openly about her views on her past relationships. In a 2018 interview with Elle, she described both of her marriages as successful despite ending in divorce.</p><p>"When they came to an end, it was a choice that was made because we chose to be happy, and sometimes happiness didn't exist within that arrangement anymore," she was quoted as saying. "Sure, there were bumps, and not every moment felt fantastic, obviously, but at the end of it, this is our one life and I would not stay in a situation out of fear. Fear of being alone. Fear of not being able to survive." </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/brad-pitt-no-marriage-again-angelina-jolie-children-estrangement">Family fallout leaves marriage off the table for Brad Pitt, report says</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/friends-stars-jennifer-aniston-lisa-kudrow-share-ai-concerns">Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow on AI: 'There are so many questions'</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/jennifer-aniston-pens-heartfelt-note-as-reese-witherspoon-turns-50">Jennifer Aniston pens heartfelt note as Reese Witherspoon turns 50</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>CoComelon and Blippi to bring interactive live show to Abu Dhabi this August</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/cocomelon-blippi-live-show-abu-dhabi</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/cocomelon-blippi-live-show-abu-dhabi#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">5eb6689e-4639-46c4-887c-6df506eea869</guid><pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:00:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-05T11:00:00.000Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Khaleej Times Staff</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2297290</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords>Abu Dhabi</media:keywords><media:content height="562" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/f41x6l08/Story.jpg" width="999"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/f41x6l08/Story.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><category>Things to do in the UAE</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Families in the UAE can look forward to a musical adventure this summer as <em>CoComelon: Sing-A-Long LIVE</em>, featuring special guest Blippi, arrives at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, on August 15 and 16.</p><p>The touring production will bring some of the world's most beloved preschool characters to the stage, offering young fans the chance to see JJ, Cody, Nina and their friends from CoComelon come to life in an interactive live setting. The show will also mark the first time CoComelon and Blippi appear together on stage in the UAE.</p><p>Designed as an introduction to live entertainment for preschoolers, the production combines music, dance and audience participation, encouraging families to sing, play and engage with the characters throughout the performance.</p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-05/sr3opngb/Post___7_.jpg" /></figure><p>Audiences can expect a lively journey through the colourful world of CoComelon, featuring popular songs including <em>Wheels on the Bus</em>, <em>Animal Dance</em> and <em>If You're Happy and You Know It</em>. Blippi will also make a special appearance, performing fan-favourite <em>The Excavator Song</em>.</p><p>The family-friendly production follows the success of CoComelon's global rise as one of the world's most-watched children's entertainment brands. The franchise attracts more than four billion monthly views across platforms including YouTube and Netflix, while Blippi has built a global audience of more than 100 million fans through educational videos focused on curiosity and exploration.</p><p>Produced by Round Room Live and Moonbug Entertainment, the show is presented by Blu Blood in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral.</p><p>Organisers say the production has been created to offer children a memorable first theatre experience, blending familiar songs and characters with interactive moments designed to keep little ones engaged from start to finish.</p><p>Tickets for <em>CoComelon: Sing-A-Long LIVE</em> are now on sale through the Etihad Arena website.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-network/babiloo-brings-edutainment-to-life-at-times-square-centres-back-to-school-event">Babiloo brings edutainment to life at Times Square Centre’s back-to-school event</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-network/disney-on-ice-presents-into-the-magic-brings-beloved-disney-adventures-to-dubai-this-september">Disney On Ice presents Into The Magic brings beloved Disney adventures to Dubai this September</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/upcoming-concerts-in-uae-2025-dates-tickets-and-lineup">Don't miss these upcoming concerts in UAE 2025: Dates, tickets and lineup</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Karisma Kapoor embraces gritty OTT role in &apos;Brown&apos;: &apos;I would not wash my hair for days&apos;</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/karisma-kapoor-brown-ott-series-cop-gen-z-fans</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/karisma-kapoor-brown-ott-series-cop-gen-z-fans#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">e3cf1d1b-f30f-428b-836d-1d237bb0c427</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:09:00 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-05T08:17:45.766Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Somya Mehta</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173915</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="950" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/mdgn8fun/ALL-EPISODES-CLEAN-ZSD13.01183807.Still050.jpg" width="1688"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Still from her upcoming web series 'Brown'&nbsp;</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/mdgn8fun/ALL-EPISODES-CLEAN-ZSD13.01183807.Still050.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Karisma Kapoor is a name synonymous with ’90s Bollywood magic. Be it out-and-out comedies with Govinda or tackling strong female-led narratives like <em>Zubeidaa</em> or <em>Fiza</em>, watching Karisma on screens big and small was a huge part of millennials growing up in India and also the diaspora audiences. A kind of comfort on screen that perhaps has only been echoed in her sister Kareena Kapoor.&nbsp;</p><p>And maybe it comes from belonging to a cinematic lineage as storied as the Kapoor family, helmed by Prithviraj Kapoor and carried forward by Raj Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor and beyond — a legacy so deeply embedded that one can hardly speak of Hindi cinema without acknowledging their contribution.</p><p>But in 2026, we’re no longer watching actors dance through Swiss valleys or groove to catchy hook steps by the marina as we once did with Karisma in songs like <em>Sona Kitna Sona Hai </em>or<em> Pyar Dilon Ka Mela Hai</em>. Today’s audience is immersed in gritty thrillers, murder mysteries and psychological dramas on streaming platforms. So how does an actor from that era recalibrate for this shift in storytelling?</p><figure><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZAdMCNDbPL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZAdMCNDbPL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZAdMCNDbPL/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Karisma Kapoor (@therealkarismakapoor)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>“An artist has got to evolve with the times,” says Karisma Kapoor in a conversation with <em>Khaleej Times</em>, ahead of her upcoming psychological thriller <em>Brown</em>, where she plays Rita Brown, a completely broken, alcoholic cop thrust back into the force to chase a serial killer.</p><h3>Embracing the pivot to streaming&nbsp;</h3><p>For an actor who spent a decade defining the glitz and glam of commercial Hindi cinema, shifting gears to the raw, unpolished world of OTT felt like an inevitable progression, says Karisma. “I think it’s just growing with the times,” she adds, reflecting on the dramatic shift in storytelling over the decades. </p><p>“We all need to move with the times, with each generation and each decade. Maybe if the audience accepts that one family movie that comes again and that era will come back. But of course, OTT is giving an opportunity to so many actors creatively, from all age groups, be it directors, writers, technicians or actors. There’s a lot of growing space, which is also very good," she says. </p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/i2cmv3qn/ALL_EPISODES_CLEAN_ZSD13_00_30_36_04_Still020.jpg" /><figcaption><div class="paragraphs"><p>Still from 'Brown'</p></div></figcaption></figure><p>This digital frontier allows for a deeper dive into the human psyche than traditional two-hour theatrical releases often permitted. While the industry frequently debates whether complex female characters are a recent phenomenon, Karisma views it with a more historic perspective, refusing to discount the past.</p><p>“There have always been, in every era and every decade, certain movies that have had great roles for actresses. Right from, let's say, <em>Mother India</em>. So we cannot discount that fact. Good talent will always be appreciated,” she says. “But with the advent of OTT, there's definitely more scope for experimentation. We can explore characters more and play more with their human side.”</p><h3>Becoming Rita Brown</h3><p>It is exactly that messy, unvarnished human side that drew her to the titular character in <em>Brown, </em>which she confessed she had originally turned down. Far removed from the carefully curated, high-fashion personas that define her legacy, Rita Brown demanded a complete shedding of vanity.</p><p>“This is a woman who is completely broken,” Karisma adds. “She’s left her job, can barely get out of bed, and is then forced back into it. As the story unfolds, you see her grow and evolve. That really inspired me because you’re watching a woman who is so... I don’t know, there’s no other word for it except broken.”</p><p>Playing an alcoholic, chain-smoking, pill-popping detective meant inhabiting a personality entirely alien to Karisma's own reality. The physical transformation required an immersive devotion to director Abhinay Deo’s gritty vision.</p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/46ejiy4i/ALL_EPISODES_CLEAN_ZSD13_00_57_12_20_Still041.jpg" /><figcaption><div class="paragraphs"><p>Still from 'Brown'</p></div></figcaption></figure><p>“This character was doing things that I would never do. That’s not my personality. And that was a challenge... to be able to grasp the nuance of that pain and those feelings. She’s trying to survive, but at the same time, she is a loving daughter. She wants to keep the family together and not share her pain with them. Even down to a small characteristic like, she doesn't eat food and I love to eat. So, to make this character <em>feel</em> hungry, I would not eat on set.”</p><p>The physical toll of the role was evident even in the finest details. “It was very clear in Abhinay [Deo]’s vision how he wanted to show her,” Karisma says. “Detailing it right down to the fact that she’s a chain smoker, my lips had to be purple and chapped from not eating, not taking care of myself. I would not wash my hair for days because I needed it to look very scruffy and messy. These minute details were very interesting for me to capture.”</p><h3>When spontaneity meets prep</h3><p>The structured preparation for <em>Brown</em> was a stark contrast to how Karisma operated during the peak of her 90s stardom, an era famous for its impromptu nature.</p><p>“I didn’t even know what my character would be saying when we came onto the set,” she says with a laugh, reminiscing about the early days. “Scenes were developed and made on the spot. We would rehearse and do comedy scenes and make the audience laugh. That time was very magical, very spontaneous. It was literally just about being in the moment.”</p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/t1jhr4uh/ALL_EPISODES_CLEAN_ZSD13_03_44_20_02_Still214.jpg" /><figcaption><div class="paragraphs"><p>Still from 'Brown'</p></div></figcaption></figure><p>For <em>Brown</em>, however, the process evolved into one of meticulous planning, with bound scripts and comprehensive workshops. “Abhinay would see to it that whether it was the art department or the camera department, everyone was prepared. So when we all went on set, it just took exchanging a look because everyone knew what was happening. I think that's also a very unusual kind of magic that happens when you're very prepared.”</p><p>Yet, despite the rigorous prep, she maintains that there is no singular 'right' way to capture lightning in a bottle on camera. “Every actor has their own method. According to me, there is no one particular thing. Some actors love to rehearse and some actors will rehearse once and say, 'No, no, I won’t do it again. I’ll do it on camera.' So we have to respect that and, as co-actors, we have to learn to adapt.”</p><h3>A legacy embraced by Gen-Z</h3><p>Even as she steps into the world of OTT and gritty thrillers, Karisma’s vibrant cinema legacy continues to thrive in the digital age. From Dubai restaurants to chance encounters with fans at airports, her iconic dance moves and signature sense of style from the '90s continue to be rediscovered by younger generations across social media.</p><p>“I always see these Instagram Reels,” she says, expressing genuine gratitude for the enduring fandom. “I think maybe it was, apart from acting, my love for dance and my love for fashion. Over time, it all started to merge and maybe there's something about it that still resonates today. It’s really sweet. When I go to a restaurant or on a flight, even Gen-Z kids are like, ‘Oh, we loved your dance in this song,’ and they ask, ‘When will we see you again?’ </p><p>And while fans will see a completely different side of the actress in her upcoming psychological thriller, Karisma believes audiences will enjoy seeing her in a new light. “I don't think they've ever seen me like this. This character is very real <em>(laughs).</em> But I'm ever grateful to all my viewers and my audience for all the love over all these years." </p><p><em>Brown is available for streaming on ZEE5 from June 12.</em></p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/halima-sadia-khan-on-navigating-fame">'An artist should stay connected, not exposed': Pakistani actress Halima Sadia Khan </a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/bollywood-actor-bhumi-pednekar-on-daldal-imposter-syndrome">Exclusive: Bhumi Pednekar on 'Daldal', imposter syndrome and why she’s done being hard on herself</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/bhavana-returns-to-malayalam-cinema-with-thriller-anomie">Bhavana returns to Malayalam cinema with thriller 'Anomie'</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Who are the Ghetto Kids? The Ugandan dancers heading to the FIFA World Cup stage with Shakira</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/how-ghetto-kids-became-global-stars</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/how-ghetto-kids-became-global-stars#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">68e9d415-559b-4f91-aebb-122ab2d1a98b</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 10:48:04 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-04T10:48:04.992Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Waad Barakat</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173930</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1152" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/aco1ufzk/56198928613467937468181312210986455770608845n.jpg" width="2048"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Triplets Ghetto Kids&nbsp;</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/aco1ufzk/56198928613467937468181312210986455770608845n.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>When Shakira announced she had invited Uganda's Ghetto Kids to perform during the FIFA World Cup final halftime show, many fans celebrated the moment. For others, it prompted a simple question: who are the Ghetto Kids?</p><p>The group is part of Triplets Ghetto Kids (TGK), a Ugandan non-governmental organisation that uses music, dance, and drama to support disadvantaged, orphaned and street children.</p><p>Founded in Kampala, the initiative aims to give vulnerable children opportunities through performance and education, while helping them build confidence and life skills.</p><p>Their rise to fame began in 2014 when a dance video set to Sitya Loss went viral across social media. The clip introduced audiences around the world to a group of energetic young dancers performing in the streets of Uganda.</p><p>What followed was a journey few could have predicted.</p><p><strong><a href="https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va5dROu3bbUxk7Jh2503" rel="noopener noreferrer">Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp channels.</a></strong></p><p>Over the years, the children have appeared in international campaigns, performed alongside global artists and built a fanbase stretching far beyond East Africa. Their videos regularly attract millions of views online, thanks to their high-energy choreography and infectious enthusiasm.</p><p>The group's popularity reached new heights in 2023 when they competed on Britain's Got Talent, winning over judges and viewers before reaching the competition's final stages.</p><p>Despite their global fame, the organisation's mission has remained unchanged: using the performing arts to create opportunities for children who may otherwise have few.</p><p>Over the years, the organisation has used its growing online platform to raise funds for school fees, supplies and other necessities, while helping children develop skills and confidence through dance. </p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/bqyts3w0/WhatsApp_Image_2026_06_04_at_2_45_45_PM.jpeg" /></figure><p>Social media posts shared by the group show fundraising campaigns for school materials and community support projects. In one appeal, the organisation encouraged followers to help children return to school, reflecting its wider mission beyond entertainment.</p><p>Now, their story is entering a new chapter.</p><p>After years of viral success, <a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-dances-with-viral-dance-troupe-ghetto-kids-after-world-cup-invitation">the young dancers are preparing to share the stage with Shakira during the FIFA World Cup final halftime show</a>, a moment that began with a simple dream and a social media post asking for a chance.</p><p>The Ghetto Kids have built a massive online following through their energetic dance videos, amassing more than 9.3 million followers on Instagram alone. The group regularly shares choreographed routines and behind-the-scenes moments, attracting millions of views from fans around the world.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-dances-with-viral-dance-troupe-ghetto-kids-after-world-cup-invitation">Shakira dances with viral dance troupe Ghetto Kids after World Cup invitation</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-unveils-2026-fifa-world-cup-song-dai-dai-3">Shakira unveils 2026 FIFA World Cup song 'Dai Dai' </a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Shakira dances with viral dance troupe Ghetto Kids after World Cup invitation</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-dances-with-viral-dance-troupe-ghetto-kids-after-world-cup-invitation</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-dances-with-viral-dance-troupe-ghetto-kids-after-world-cup-invitation#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">313ed88c-4a70-4705-9470-e3feb37f7860</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 10:14:03 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-04T10:14:03.972Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Waad Barakat</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173930</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="2000" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/r93e9dtc/BeFunky-collage-6.jpg" width="3556"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Shakira with&nbsp;Triplets Ghetto Kids</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/r93e9dtc/BeFunky-collage-6.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Global superstar Shakira has shared a new dance video featuring Uganda's famous Ghetto Kids, weeks after personally inviting the group to join her at the FIFA World Cup final halftime show.</p><p>The video, shared on social media, shows Shakira dancing alongside members of the children's dance troupe to <em>Dai Dai</em>, her official FIFA World Cup 2026 song with Burna Boy.</p><figure><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DY-bAGRKjkW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DY-bAGRKjkW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DY-bAGRKjkW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Shakira (@shakira)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>The collaboration marks a full-circle moment for the young performers, who had spent weeks campaigning online for a chance to dance with the singer.</p><p>In an earlier post, the group wrote: "Hey Shakira, Yes we Want to Perform with You!  This would Be a Dream Come true for us and for Uganda and Africa! "</p><p>The group is part of Triplets Ghetto Kids (TGK), a Ugandan non-governmental organisation that uses music, dance and drama to support disadvantaged, orphaned and street children.</p><p><strong><a href="https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va5dROu3bbUxk7Jh2503" rel="noopener noreferrer">Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp channels.</a></strong></p><p>Founded in Kampala, the initiative aims to give vulnerable children opportunities through performance and education, while helping them build confidence and life skills.</p><figure><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYe-E_OMuR3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYe-E_OMuR3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYe-E_OMuR3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Triplets Ghetto Kids  (@ghettokids_tfug)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Their efforts paid off when Shakira revealed that she had been watching fan-created videos inspired by <em>Dai Dai</em> and wanted dancers to join her during the FIFA World Cup final halftime show.</p><p>"I've already invited the Ghetto Kids from Uganda," the singer said in a video message addressed to fans, while encouraging more creators to submit their dance videos.</p><p>The announcement sparked celebrations among the children, who later posted a video captioned: "The Queen Shakira has confirmed our dream Thank you God."</p><p>Fans praised the singer's decision, with one commenter writing: "That's what the great and humble do and Shakira is great."</p><p>The invitation places the Ugandan troupe on one of the biggest stages in world sport. The FIFA World Cup final on July 19 will feature the tournament's first-ever halftime show, with Shakira among the headline performers.</p><p><em>Dai Dai</em>, Shakira's collaboration with Burna Boy, was released as the official song of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and continues the singer's long association with football's biggest tournament, following hits such as <em>Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)</em> and <em>La La La (Brazil 2014).</em></p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-fifa-2026-song-video-messi-ronaldo">Shakira drops FIFA 2026 anthem video featuring Messi, Mbappe and Ronaldo</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/shakira-unveils-2026-fifa-world-cup-song-dai-dai-3">Shakira unveils 2026 FIFA World Cup song 'Dai Dai' </a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Bollywood producer and former CBFC chief Pahlaj Nihalani passes away at 76</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/pahlaj-nihalani-dies-at-76-former-cbfc-chief-bollywood-producer-passes-away</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/pahlaj-nihalani-dies-at-76-former-cbfc-chief-bollywood-producer-passes-away#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">bf1b6f8f-3d01-40a0-8043-082d6088424f</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 08:41:13 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-04T08:50:41.638Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Waad Barakat</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173930</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="808" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/gbgfhyjj/Screenshot-2026-06-04-at-12.40.52-PM.png" width="1436"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Pahlaj Nihalani</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/gbgfhyjj/Screenshot-2026-06-04-at-12.40.52-PM.png?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Veteran Bollywood producer and former chairman of India's Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Pahlaj Nihalani, has died at the age of 76.</p><p>According to multiple Indian media reports, Nihalani passed away in Mumbai on Thursday, June 4,  after battling liver-related ailments. He had reportedly been undergoing treatment at Nanavati Hospital in the city.</p><p>A prominent figure in the Hindi film industry for more than four decades, Nihalani produced several successful commercial films, including <em>Aankhen</em>, <em>Shola Aur Shabnam</em>, <em>Ilzaam</em> and <em>Talaash: The Hunt Begins. </em></p><p>He was also credited with helping launch the careers of actors such as Govinda and Chunky Pandey.</p><p>Beyond film production, Nihalani became a widely discussed figure during his tenure as CBFC chairman between 2015 and 2017. His time at the certification board was marked by several high-profile censorship debates before he was replaced by Prasoon Joshi in 2017.</p><p>Reports said Nihalani had been suffering from liver cirrhosis for several months. His funeral is expected to take place in Mumbai later on Thursday.</p><p>No official statement from the family was immediately available at the time of publication.</p><p>Born in Karachi before relocating to India, Nihalani began his film career in the early 1980s and went on to become one of Bollywood's most prolific commercial producers.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/did-sanjay-leela-bhansali-suffer-a-heart-attack-bollywood-director-clarifies">Did Sanjay Leela Bhansali suffer a heart attack? Bollywood director clarifies</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/indian-film-and-tv-actress-pravina-deshpande-dies-at-61">Indian film and TV actress Pravina Deshpande dies at 61</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Jennifer Lopez breaks silence on dating rumours with Brett Goldstein</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/jennifer-lopez-brett-goldstein-dating-rumours</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/jennifer-lopez-brett-goldstein-dating-rumours#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">20522719-c347-4053-9b8a-84cb6ae24857</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 08:03:42 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-04T08:03:42.434Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Coming to Jennifer Lopez and Brett Goldstein&apos;s &apos;Office Romance&apos;, it is set to premiere on Netflix on June 5. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/lg89697a/ANI_20260603174056.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Jennifer Lopez, Brett Goldstein </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/lg89697a/ANI_20260603174056.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Singer-actress Jennifer Lopez has finally addressed the ongoing rumours swirling around her dating life, especially after she was recently linked with her <em>Office Romance</em> co-star Brett Goldstein. </p><p>In a recent interview, the duo was asked about their off-screen relationship, to which JLo cleared the air. </p><p>"There is never a time when I'm seen with somebody or working with somebody that they don't try and put me with the person," Jennifer Lopez said, as quoted by Billboard.</p><p>Adding further, her co-star Brett Goldstein quipped, "I think if you stand near her, that's what happens."</p><p>Noting how she has linked with multiple names over time, Lopez said, "All these people that they put me with. I think I was with Kevin Costner this year; there were a lot of people. It happens all the time."</p><p>Lopez strongly asserted that she and Goldstein are "not dating."</p><p>This came after multiple media reports surfaced online, teasing the actors budding romance. </p><p>According to a Page Six report, a source shared, "Lopez and Goldstein kept things professional on set while filming, but their chemistry was undeniable."</p><p>"They tried to keep things low-key during the months while filming, but flirted here and there on set, and they definitely had a strong connection. Everyone saw them getting very cosy together at the wrap party, and it was obvious they were into each other," the source added.</p><p>The source also revealed that the co-stars even went for a night out in early 2025, continuing, "Once filming wrapped, they were free to take things further and dated for quite some time."</p><p>However, the connection eventually lost momentum, as the source mentioned, "They liked spending time together, and Brett made her happy. But things just sort of fizzled out between them since last year."</p><p>Coming to Jennifer Lopez and Brett Goldstein's <em>Office Romance</em>, it is set to premiere on Netflix on June 5. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/losing-a-friend-was-hard-jennifer-garner-speaks-about-her-divorce-with-ben-affleck">'Losing a friend was hard': Jennifer Garner speaks about her divorce with Ben Affleck</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/jennifer-aniston-goes-instagram-official-with-boyfriend-jim-curtis-on-his-birthday">Jennifer Aniston confirms relationship with Jim Curtis</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow on AI: &apos;There are so many questions&apos;</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/friends-stars-jennifer-aniston-lisa-kudrow-share-ai-concerns</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/friends-stars-jennifer-aniston-lisa-kudrow-share-ai-concerns#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">af853cc0-409f-4fa5-87f8-42b8d244bc46</guid><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 07:54:31 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-04T07:54:31.673Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ &apos;Friends&apos; co-stars Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow recently reunited for a special #ActorsOnActors segment for Variety, where the duo reflected on their long-standing association and fondly reminisced about their time on the iconic show.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/e6txt04k/ANI_20260603145123.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow  </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-04/e6txt04k/ANI_20260603145123.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Former <em>Friends</em> stars Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow recently reunited for Variety's Actors on Actors series, where they reflected on their decades-long friendship, shared memories from the hit sitcom, and discussed the rapid rise of artificial intelligence.</p><p>Speaking about AI's growing influence in entertainment, Kudrow said she believes the technology still has limitations despite its rapid development.</p><p>"I feel like we're going to learn a lot about what doesn't work, and that there will be some aspects of it that will be really helpful," she said. "And I think an audience will always let you know what works for them and what doesn't work for them."</p><p>Kudrow added that younger audiences are often able to spot AI-generated content more easily.</p><p>"Right now, just as actors, I think we're safe, because young people can tell so much better than I can tell what's an AI-generated human," she said.</p><p>Aniston agreed, revealing that she is regularly sent AI-generated images and videos that some people mistakenly believe are real.</p><p>"The amount of things that I get sent from people who think that it's actually me, and it's so clearly not," she said.</p><p>The actress described AI as largely unfamiliar territory and said there is still much to learn about its long-term impact.</p><p>"It's such uncharted territory, and I think we have to learn about it. It feels like it's already grown into this 900-headed monster. We don't understand enough about it," Aniston said.</p><p>Kudrow noted that Aniston has been making an effort to better understand the technology.</p><p>"I know you. You've probably looked and tried to learn about it," Kudrow told her.</p><p>"I want to learn more. I want to understand what this is, because there are just so many questions," Aniston replied.</p><p>Meanwhile, Kudrow has been working on the third and final season of <em>The Comeback</em>, which she co-wrote with creator Michael Patrick King. The upcoming season will conclude the story of sitcom actress Valerie Cherish.</p><p>Aniston is set to return as news anchor Alex Levy in the fifth season of Apple TV+'s <em>The Morning Show</em>.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/jennifer-aniston-pens-heartfelt-note-as-reese-witherspoon-turns-50">Jennifer Aniston pens heartfelt note as Reese Witherspoon turns 50</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/amanda-peet-opens-up-breast-cancer-diagnosis">Amanda Peet opens up on kids’ support during her breast cancer diagnosis </a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>&apos;God of War Laufey&apos;, &apos;Wolverine&apos; steal the show at PlayStation State of Play June 2026</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/gaming/god-of-war-laufey-wolverine-steal-the-show-at-playstation-state-of-play-june-2026</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/gaming/god-of-war-laufey-wolverine-steal-the-show-at-playstation-state-of-play-june-2026#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">ee5db4d8-70a5-4808-bb6e-482039199908</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 13:56:35 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T13:56:35.069Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Husain Rizvi</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173897</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="2170" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/kk5azty8/BeFunky-collage-86.jpg" width="3264"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/kk5azty8/BeFunky-collage-86.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Gaming</category><category>Tech</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Sony's June 2026 State of Play delivered exactly what PlayStation fans had been hoping for: blockbuster first-party reveals, long-awaited release dates and a packed roadmap stretching well into 2027.</p><p>The 60-minute showcase opened with a fresh look at Marvel's <em>Wolverine</em> and ended with the surprise reveal of <em>God of War Laufey</em>, while major franchises including <em>Tomb Raider, Silent Hill</em> and <em>Until Dawn</em> also returned. Here's everything you need to know about the biggest announcements.</p><a class="cta-anchor" href="https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va5dROu3bbUxk7Jh2503" target="_blank" rel=""><span class="cta-text">Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.</span></a><h2>Marvel's Wolverine finally shows its claws</h2><p>Insomniac Games kicked off the show with an extended look at Marvel's Wolverine, offering the most detailed gameplay reveal yet. The footage showcased Logan's brutal combat style, featuring savage claw attacks, environmental takedowns and a darker tone than the studio's Spider-Man games.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OiBo_NgYI5Q"></iframe></figure><p>Players also got a glimpse of Team X and several familiar Marvel characters, including Jean Grey, who appears to play a significant role in the story. The trailer confirmed that Wolverine is shaping up to be one of PlayStation's biggest exclusives.</p><h2>God of War Laufey puts Faye in the spotlight</h2><p>The show's biggest surprise came at the end. <em>God of War</em> <em>Laufey</em> shifts the focus away from Kratos and Atreus and places Faye, Kratos' wife and Atreus' mother, at the centre of the story.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HLMX2w3cwuE"></iframe></figure><p>Set after her death, the game follows Faye as she journeys through the afterlife of the gods to protect those she loves. The reveal suggests a fresh direction for the franchise while expanding one of the most important characters in the God of War universe.</p><h2>Tomb Raider returns to Lara Croft's roots</h2><p>Crystal Dynamics unveiled Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis, launching on February 12, 2027.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0wEjbSYNUM8"></iframe></figure><p>The new adventure promises a return to classic Lara Croft exploration, with footage showing the iconic Peru Lost Valley and several familiar faces from the franchise's history. Early impressions suggest a stronger focus on puzzles, platforming and archaeological discovery.</p><h2>Silent Hill Townfall and Until Dawn 2 bring the scares</h2><p>Horror fans had plenty to celebrate. Silent Hill Townfall received a September 24 release date alongside a chilling new trailer introducing protagonist Zoe and a terrifying new creature stalking players through the Otherworld.</p><figure class="op-interactive"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4Sv_BYhbwxk"></iframe></figure><figure class="op-interactive"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MtlJIEOuebo"></iframe></figure><p>Meanwhile, Until Dawn 2 was officially revealed. Developed by Firesprite Games, the standalone sequel follows a group of ghost hunters investigating an abandoned tropical island, with player choices once again determining who survives.</p><h2>Other major announcements</h2><figure class="op-interactive"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cvh0xXmu0bs"></iframe></figure><p>The showcase also featured release dates and updates for Control Resonant (September 24), Onimusha: Way of the Sword (September 25), Phantom Blade Zero (October 29), Dune Awakening (September 22), Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve (October 2), No Rest for the Wicked, Marathon, Kemuri, ILL, The Lost Wild, Bancho The Chef, Dynasty Warriors 3: Complete Edition Remastered, Rayman Legends Retold and Stuntman: Hollywood.</p><p>With major exclusives arriving throughout late 2026 and early 2027, Sony's latest State of Play was a huge hit among gamers.</p><p><em>Want to know more about your favourite tech products in the UAE? Check out the links below or click&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/tech" rel="nofollow">here</a></strong>&nbsp;to see Khaleej Times' coverage on technology.</em></p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/gaming/marvels-wolverine-pc-release-in-doubt-as-sony-rethinks-strategy">Marvel's 'Wolverine' PC release in doubt as Sony rethinks strategy</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/gaming/playstation-6-release-date-and-pricing-still-unknown-says-sony-ceo">PlayStation 6 release date and pricing still unknown, says Sony CEO</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>FWICE withdraws non-cooperation directive against Ranveer Singh over &apos;Don 3&apos; row</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/fwice-withdraws-non-cooperation-directive-ranveer-singh-don-3</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/fwice-withdraws-non-cooperation-directive-ranveer-singh-don-3#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">3ebb25bb-42ef-44ba-a7b0-922672ad58ca</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:46:12 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T11:47:42.481Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ The Federation of Western lndia Cine Employees (FWICE) has withdrawn their non-cooperation directive against Ranveer Singh after the actor&apos;s abrupt exit from Don 3. Following it, several celebs and film bodies opposed the FWICE&apos;s decision leading to an intense debate across the industry and the internet. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="578" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/zhlb3ruc/ANI_20260603090707.jpg" width="1028"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Ranveer Singh (left), Farhan Akhtar</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/zhlb3ruc/ANI_20260603090707.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has withdrawn its non-cooperation directive against Ranveer Singh after the actor's abrupt exit from <em>Don 3</em>. Following it, several celebs and film bodies opposed FWICE's decision, leading to an intense debate across the industry and the internet. </p><p>FWICE have now announced that they have "withdrawn" their decision after the 'intervention' of the lndian Motion Picture Producers'Association (IMPPA). The film body has called for a "constructive and amicable resolution" in the ongoing issues between Ranveer Singh and Farhan Akhtar's Excel Entertainment over <em>Don 3.</em> </p><p>"Over the course of subsequent discussions and deliberations, and after taking into consideration the intervention and appeal made by lndian Motion Picture Producers'Association (IMPPA) (respected producer body), it was collectively felt that the matter should now move towards a constructive and amicable resolution in the larger interest of maintaining harmony and unity within the entertainment industry," read the press statement of FWICE. </p><p>FWICE also expressed their gratitude to IMPPA for their guidance in resolving the matter.</p><p>The statement read, "We would especially like to acknowledge and place on record our sincere gratitude to the lndian Motion Picture Producers' Association (IMPPA), one of the country's oldest, largest, and most respected representative bodies of producers, for its timely intervention, valuable guidance, and earnest efforts in resolving this matter."</p><p>The statement further added, "At the same time, we also strongly believe that matters affecting members of the fraternity should, wherever possible, be resolved through dialogue, understanding, and collective responsibility. It is this spirit of goodwill, mutual respect, and consideration for the larger interests of the industry that we have decided to withdraw the NCD issued against Mr. Ranveer Singh."  </p><p>The controversy around Ranveer's exit erupted after the actor gave back-to-back blockbusters with <em>Dhurandhar, Dhurandhar: The Revenge</em> in 2025 and 2026 respectively. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-banned-by-film-federation-over-don-3-controversy">Ranveer Singh banned by film federation over Don 3 controversy</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/ranveer-singhs-spokesperson-on-don-3-controversy">'He has chosen to maintain silence': Ranveer Singh's spokesperson on 'Don 3' controversy</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/manoj-bajpayee-on-ranveer-singh-fwice-row">'Hope it's sorted out soon': Manoj Bajpayee on Ranveer Singh-FWICE row over 'Don 3'</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Khan Saab to make Dubai debut this June with &apos;Dhurandhar Experience&apos;</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/music/khan-saab-dubai-concert-dhurandhar</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/music/khan-saab-dubai-concert-dhurandhar#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">eaa14cea-6da1-43e2-9b32-d3deed2ff801</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:35:47 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T11:35:47.365Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Khaleej Times Staff</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2297290</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords>Dubai</media:keywords><media:content height="873" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/qt1dgnba/Screenshot-2026-06-03-at-3.34.01-pm.png" width="1552"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/qt1dgnba/Screenshot-2026-06-03-at-3.34.01-pm.png?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Music</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Dubai’s live music scene is about to get a massive dose of soul. On Friday, June 12, Punjabi powerhouse Khan Saab will make his highly anticipated, first-ever debut performance in the city. Titled the 'Dhurandhar Experience', this monumental night promises to break a long-standing regional drought of large-scale live Sufi and Qawwali music.</p><p>Brought to you by Team Innovation, the exclusive showcase will take over Troy at the Ramee Dream Hotel in Business Bay starting at 10pm.</p><h3>A cultural milestone for Punjabi music</h3><p>Khan Saab, trained under the legendary Patiala Gharana lineage, is globally celebrated for his raw, emotional delivery and chart-topping hits like ‘Dil Pe Zakham Khate Hain’. His artistry beautifully bridges the sacred weight of traditional Sufi kalam with the cinematic intensity of modern Bollywood playback.</p><p>"Bringing my music to Dubai for the very first time is an exciting milestone," says Khan Saab. "The 'Dhurandhar Experience' is going to be an intense, soulful exchange of emotions."</p><p>Sagar Chandwani, founder of Team Innovation Middle East, added: "There has been a noticeable gap in large-scale Punjabi soul and Sufi-led live experiences in the region, and we believe 'Dhurandhar Experience' will fill that space in a truly memorable way."</p><p>The night is designed to strike a perfect balance between deep, soul-stirring melodies and late-night party vibes. To anchor the after-hours sets, prominent Dubai selectors DJ Sohail and DJ Manoj are locked in to spin a curated mix of heavy Bollywood beats and Punjabi music.</p><p>Tickets are officially available on Platinumlist.net.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/akanksha-grover-dubai-baithak-experience">Dubai: Singer Akanksha Grover to headline soulful 'Baithak' experience </a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/anuv-jain-confirms-dubai-stop-on-debut-dastakhat-world-tour">Anuv Jain confirms Dubai stop on debut 'Dastakhat World Tour'</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/local-events/dubai-to-host-baithak-evening-with-singer-lyricist-piyush-mishra-on-january-24">Dubai to host ‘Baithak’ evening with singer-lyricist Piyush Mishra on January 24</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Fans react as Wael Kfoury&apos;s latest photo sparks debate over changed appearance</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/wael-kfoury-chou-meshta2li-appearance-reactions</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/wael-kfoury-chou-meshta2li-appearance-reactions#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">57a7f37e-13ce-4905-a02c-a807497c80d9</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 08:58:12 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T08:58:12.104Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Waad Barakat</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173930</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1688" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/rvk4n99l/BeFunky-collage-14.jpg" width="3001"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Wael&nbsp;</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/rvk4n99l/BeFunky-collage-14.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Lebanese singer Wael Kfoury is once again making headlines, this time not only for his music but also for his appearance.</p><p>The singer recently released his new single <em>Chou Meshta2li</em>, which quickly gained traction across digital platforms. However, a promotional video that the artist shared on TikTok, sparked widespread discussion among fans, many of whom commented on what they described as a noticeable change in Kfoury's facial features and significant weight loss.</p><p>Social media users flooded the comments section with reactions, with some expressing concern about the singer's health, while others speculated that he may have used GLP-1 weight-loss medications, which have become increasingly popular in recent years. Several fans questioned whether the transformation was linked to a health issue or a lifestyle change.</p><p>Kfoury has not publicly addressed the speculation, nor has he issued any statement regarding the comments surrounding his appearance.</p><p>While the online debate continued, the singer's latest release was achieving major milestones.</p><p><em>Chou Meshta2li</em> generated strong engagement across various digital platforms following its release. Within its first two days, the song surpassed one million views on Kfoury's official YouTube channel, highlighting the enduring popularity of the Lebanese star.</p><p>The track also topped trending charts in several countries, including Lebanon, Jordan, Kuwait, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Sweden, Canada and Germany.</p><p>Adding to its success, the song reached the eighth spot on YouTube's Worldwide Trending chart, marking another global achievement for Kfoury and extending a long list of successful releases throughout his career.</p><p>Known for hits such as <em>El Bint El Awiye</em> and <em>Law Hobna Ghalta</em>, Kfoury remains one of the Arab world's most celebrated singers. His latest release has once again captured the attention of audiences across the region, with conversations centring on both the song's performance and the singer's noticeably different look.</p><p>As speculation continues online, fans are waiting to see whether Kfoury will address the concerns raised about his appearance. For now, the focus remains split between the success of <em>Chou Meshta2li</em> and the questions surrounding the singer's recent transformation.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/elissa-new-album-launch-tease-2026">Arab pop star Elissa gears up for new album launch after teasing studio return</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/looksmaxxing-social-media-trend-doctors-warn-risks">Tried 'looksmaxxing'? UAE doctors warn of health risks related to social media trend</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Film producers raise alarm over last-minute exits by actors, directors</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/producers-guild-india-last-minute-project-exits-concern</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/producers-guild-india-last-minute-project-exits-concern#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">1ddfc936-a919-4120-854c-d43bcbcadeee</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 08:38:47 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T08:38:47.978Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Waad Barakat</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173930</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="848" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/cozd0pky/Screenshot-2026-06-03-at-12.38.17-pm.png" width="1510"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>File photo used for illustrative purposes</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/cozd0pky/Screenshot-2026-06-03-at-12.38.17-pm.png?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The Producers Guild of India has raised concerns over what it described as a growing trend of actors, directors and technicians backing out of projects at the last minute, warning that the practice is causing financial and reputational damage across the film industry.</p><p>In an official statement issued on Wednesday, June 3, the Guild said it had received formal complaints from member companies Excel Entertainment Private Limited and Panorama Studios International Limited regarding individuals withdrawing from commitments just days before the start of principal photography.</p><p>"There have been growing instances of talent, directors, and technicians reneging on their commitments to producers, often at the eleventh hour," the statement said.</p><figure><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZHT2tVMg6h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZHT2tVMg6h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZHT2tVMg6h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Producers Guild Of India (@producersguildofindia)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure> <p>The Guild said such actions can result in substantial financial losses for producers and have wider consequences for the industry.</p><p>According to the statement, last-minute exits can damage the credibility and brand value of films, disrupt production schedules and jeopardise the livelihoods of hundreds of technicians and crew members who depend on these projects.</p><p>"Such actions by any industry member have serious and far-reaching consequences and undermine the spirit of trust, professionalism, and mutual respect on which the film industry is built," the Guild said.</p><p>The organisation added that it supports a "free and fair business environment" and does not encourage disruptions to the content production process.</p><p>While the Guild did not name any actors, directors or technicians involved in the complaints, it urged all parties to resolve disputes amicably and said it would continue working to protect the interests of the film fraternity.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-banned-by-film-federation-over-don-3-controversy">Ranveer Singh banned by film federation over Don 3 controversy</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/bollywood-counts-costs-as-star-fees-squeeze-profits">Bollywood counts costs as star fees squeeze profits</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>These &apos;Off Campus&apos; stars have Arabic roots: Meet Mika Abdalla and Antonio Cipriano</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/off-campus-stars-mika-abdalla-antonio-cipriano-lebanese-roots</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/off-campus-stars-mika-abdalla-antonio-cipriano-lebanese-roots#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">b879673e-40d9-4c3c-9c99-ff5ca50b1a04</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 07:43:52 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T07:43:52.411Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Waad Barakat</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173930</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1688" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/mulbdwxm/BeFunky-collage-13.jpg" width="3001"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Mika Abdalla (Left) ,&nbsp;Antonio Cipriano (Right)&nbsp;</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/mulbdwxm/BeFunky-collage-13.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>As <em>Off Campus</em> continues to dominate social media feeds and streaming charts, fans are discovering an unexpected connection between two of the show's rising stars and the Arab world.</p><p>American actress Mika Abdalla and actor-singer Antonio Cipriano, who appear in Prime Video's hit adaptation of Elle Kennedy's bestselling book series, both share Lebanese heritage, a detail many viewers only recently began discussing online as the show's popularity exploded.</p><p>For Abdalla, the clue is right in her surname.</p><p>The 26-year-old actress, who plays Allie Hayes, was born in Plano, Texas, and comes from a diverse family background that includes Lebanese, Bulgarian, Greek, Italian and German ancestry. Her father, George Abdalla, immigrated to the United States from Bulgaria, making her a first-generation American on her father's side.</p><p>While fans have been praising Abdalla's portrayal of the witty and independent Allie, some have also taken a closer look at her background, with many surprised to learn about her Lebanese roots.</p><p>Cipriano, who plays Logan in the series, also has ties to the Arab world through his Lebanese heritage. The actor and singer, who previously built a following through Broadway productions before transitioning to television, comes from a family with both Lebanese and Italian ancestry.</p><p>The discovery has sparked conversations among Arab viewers online, who have welcomed seeing actors with Middle Eastern roots gaining visibility in one of the year's most talked-about young adult series.</p><p>Their growing popularity comes as <em>Off Campus</em> continues its remarkable rise.</p><p>Based on Kennedy's bestselling novels, the series follows a group of students at the fictional Briar University as they navigate friendships, relationships and life on campus. At the centre of the story are several hockey players whose romantic storylines have already attracted a dedicated fan base.</p><p>What began as a beloved book series has quickly transformed into a streaming sensation.</p><p>Much of the show's success has been fuelled by TikTok, where fan edits, reaction videos and scene compilations have generated millions of views. The adaptation arrived with an already established audience thanks to Kennedy's novels, which became favourites among readers of the romance genre and enjoyed years of popularity on BookTok.</p><p>Fans have particularly embraced the chemistry between the cast members, with several scenes regularly trending across social media platforms. The combination of college romance, emotional storylines and a strong ensemble cast has helped the show resonate with younger audiences looking for the next big binge-watch.</p><p>The response has been so strong that the series secured an early renewal, a sign of Prime Video's confidence in the franchise and its long-term potential.</p><p>As <em>Off Campus</em> continues to attract new viewers around the world, Arab fans have found an additional reason to tune in. Beyond the hockey romances and campus drama, two of the show's breakout stars carry a connection to Lebanon, adding another layer of representation to one of streaming's biggest breakout hits.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/kennedy-love-story-series-why-it-went-viral">Love story series on the Kennedys turns popular, here’s why viewers are hooked</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/off-campus-third-most-watched-debut-series">'Off Campus' becomes Prime Video’s third most-watched debut series of all time</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Peabo Bryson, singer of Disney hits &apos;Beauty and the Beast&apos; and &apos;A Whole New World&apos;, dies at 75</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/peabo-bryson-dies-at-75-disney-beauty-and-the-beast-a-whole-new-world</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/peabo-bryson-dies-at-75-disney-beauty-and-the-beast-a-whole-new-world#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">d272fc22-d700-4894-82f9-7efa2c76d3a2</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 07:22:12 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T07:22:12.285Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Peabo Bryson, the veteran R&amp;B singer best known for his voice behind the Disney film hits &apos;Beauty and the Beast&apos; and &apos;Whole New World,&apos; passed away at the age of 75 on Tuesday, according to the family of the singer, reported Variety. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/m16o836s/ANI_20260603030413.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Peabo Bryson </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/m16o836s/ANI_20260603030413.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Veteran R&amp;B singer Peabo Bryson,  best known for his voice behind the Disney film hits <em>Beauty and the Beast</em> and <em>Whole New World</em>, passed away at the age of 75 on Tuesday, June 2, according to the family of the singer, reported Variety. </p><p>In the statement, the family didn't mention the cause of death, although they announced on Sunday, May 31, that the actor had suffered a stroke. </p><p>"With broken hearts and profound sadness, the family of two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and balladeer, Peabo Bryson, announces his passing. He passed away surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him," read the statement from Peabo Bryson's family as quoted by Variety. </p><p>It continued, "For more than five decades, Peabo's extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life's most cherished moments. His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories, and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration, creating a legacy that will forever live in the hearts of those who loved him and the countless lives he touched through song."</p><p>Best known for his smooth voice and duet hit ballads, Bryson, 75, scored hits with the above two songs, duets with Celine Dion and Regina Belle, respectively, from hit Disney films, as well as <em>Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,</em> <em>You're Looking Like Love to Me,</em> and <em>As Long as There's Christmas</em>.</p><p>According to Variety, Bryson came up in the 1970s as a member of the group Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display. He was signed to the Atlanta indie label Bang Records as a solo artist and released his first album in 1976, and upscaled to Capitol the following year.</p><p>Celebration of life and memorial arrangements will be announced at a later date, according to Variety. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/wicked-star-jonathan-bailey-named-sexiest-man-alive-by-people-magazine-2">'Wicked' star Jonathan Bailey named 'sexiest man alive' by People magazine</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/1960s-teen-idol-actor-bobby-sherman-passes-away-at-81">American actor-singer Bobby Sherman passes away at 81</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Actor Idris Elba was knighted by King Charles at Windsor Castle </title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/actor-idris-elba-was-knighted-by-king-charles-at-windsor-castle</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/actor-idris-elba-was-knighted-by-king-charles-at-windsor-castle#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">34fcefe6-300a-402a-855c-8bb41abdd9b5</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 07:14:17 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T07:14:17.444Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ King Charles knighted the actor Idris Elba in an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday. The &apos;Head of State&apos; actor recieved the honor of knighthood for services to young people. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/5opnbrrf/ANI_20260603034016.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>King Charles knights Idris Elba in an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/5opnbrrf/ANI_20260603034016.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>King Charles knighted actor Idris Elba in an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, June 2. The <em>Head of State</em> actor received the honour of knighthood for services to young people. </p><p>The Royal Family shared the photos from the investiture ceremony on their Instagram handle, showcasing King Charles tapping a sword on Idris Alba's shoulders as he knelt to receive his honour of knighthood. </p><p>"Congratulations to everyone who received honours at today's Investiture ceremonies, hosted by The King at Windsor Castle. Sir Idris Elba for services to young people," the Royal Family captioned the carousel.</p><p>The <em>Wire</em> actor reposted the story on his Instagram story while expressing his gratitude to the Royal family for the knighthood honour. </p><p>"We are thankful. The work continues," The <em>Wire</em> alum wrote over another photo that showed him sporting his medal and holding hands with his wife, Sabrina Elba, at the castle grounds. </p><p>According to People magazine, Elba's knighthood was announced in King Charles' 2026 New Year's Honours list, and the moment was made official at the investiture ceremony. King Charles, Princess Anne, and Prince William exclusively helm the ceremonies, handing out knighthoods, damehoods and other recognitions after lists of honorees are announced twice a year.</p><p>Exclusively speaking to People at the Hijack season 2 screening in January, Elba said the recognition was still sinking in, calling it a "real honour" in recognition to his work. </p><p>"I haven't really spoken about it, but I will say that it's a real honor to be recognized for the work. Especially trying to make as much noise for young people and the things that some of them are going through. So it feels like an honor. My family is honored by it. I don't even know how to talk about it," said Elba as quoted by People. </p><p>Elba and the King recently teamed up in a surprising way and hopped behind the DJ booth at a Buckingham Palace garden party in London on May 14. The event celebrated the 50th anniversary of the King's Trust. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/idris-elba-next-james-bond-rumours-younger-actors-amazon-mgm-casting">‘They’re going younger’: Idris Elba reacts to rumours about playing next James Bond</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/bafta-awards-2026-one-battle-best-film">'One Battle' win best film at BAFTAs as local talent triumphs over American A-listers</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>&apos;Cocktail 2&apos;: Kriti Sanon reveals she followed a strict diet for her role in the film</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/kriti-sanon-reveals-strict-diet-cocktail-2</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/kriti-sanon-reveals-strict-diet-cocktail-2#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">9fd7afa4-1b26-4f87-95ef-c8b5202f46ab</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:34:16 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T06:34:16.456Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ From showcasing her toned physique to effortlessly carrying stylish ensembles, Kriti&apos;s look as Ally presents her in one of her most glamorous and captivating avatars yet.  While Kriti makes the look appear effortless on screen, achieving it was anything but easy. The Mimi star followed a strict diet to get into shape and fully embody her character.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1452" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/y5k4u7p4/http___doc_afp_com_B36B4UE.jpeg" width="2581"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-03/y5k4u7p4/http___doc_afp_com_B36B4UE.jpeg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Fans have been raving over Kriti Sanon ever since her look from <em>Cocktail 2</em> was unveiled. And now with the launch of the film's trailer, the excitement among her admirers has risen a notch higher.</p><p>From showcasing her toned physique to effortlessly carrying stylish ensembles, Kriti's look as Ally presents her in one of her most glamorous and captivating avatars yet.  While Kriti makes the look appear effortless on screen, achieving it was anything but easy. The <em>Mimi</em> star followed a strict diet to get into shape and fully embody her character.</p><p>Speaking at the trailer launch, Kriti said, "For the first time in my life I was on a strict diet and that too in Italy. I think Shahid can vouch for a fact that I was extremely cranky and hangry all the time. I mean everything was worth it."</p><p>The movie is directed by Homi Adajania and is written by Tarun Jain and Luv Ranjan. The music of the film is composed by Pritam. </p><p>Kriti shares the screen space with Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna in the film. </p><p>The almost three-minute trailer of the film features a tale of chaos, confusion and heartbreak between three friends, Kunal (Shahid Kapoor), Diya (Rashmika Mandanna) and Ally (Kriti Sanon).</p><p><em>Cocktail 2</em> (2026) is a standalone spiritual sequel. It is not a direct sequel to the 2012 original <em>Cocktail</em> which featured Saif Ali Khan, Diana Penty and Deepika Padukone in the lead roles.</p><p>The movie is slated to release in theatres across the UAE on June 18. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/cocktail-2-trailer-out-shahid-kapoor-rashmika-kriti-sanon">'Cocktail 2' trailer out: Shahid, Rashmika, Kriti Sanon star in a chaotic love triangle</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/cocktail-2-first-song-poster">Look: 'Cocktail 2' first song to release on April 8, makers drop new posters</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/cocktail-2-first-look-posters-out-makers-announce-teaser-release-date">'Cocktail 2' first look posters out: Makers announce teaser release date</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Ilaiyaraaja turns 83: Kamal Haasan, celebrities share birthday wishes for music maestro </title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/music-composer-ilaiyaraaja-turns-83</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/music-composer-ilaiyaraaja-turns-83#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">1123ef67-0682-4181-a102-b27568380aa8</guid><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:26:27 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-03T06:26:27.382Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Music maestro Ilaiyaraaja is celebrating his 83rd birthday on Tuesday]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1200" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/qkyqlc8k/ANI_20260602080357.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p> Ilaiyaraaja. Photo: ANI </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/qkyqlc8k/ANI_20260602080357.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Music maestro Ilaiyaraaja celebrated his 83rd birthday on Tuesday. On this occasion, several stars and politicians penned their heartfelt wishes for the noted singer. </p><p>Superstar Kamal Haasan penned a heartfelt wish for Ilaiyaraaja. He said that the legacy of Ilaiyaraaja will last longer than his age.  </p><p>"Your music will live on for hundreds of times longer than your age. May you also be blessed with a lifespan that surpasses all our aspirations, and live on with your music," Kamal Haasan said in a post on X. </p><figure><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ta" dir="ltr">உங்க இசை உங்க வயசைப் போல பல நூறு மடங்கு வாழும். நீங்களும் எங்கள் பேராசைகளையெல்லாம் கடந்த ஆயுளைப் பெற்று வாழவேண்டும், இசையோடு.<br><br>உங்கள் <br>கமல்<a href="https://x.com/ilaiyaraaja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ilaiyaraaja</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/HBDIlaiyaraaja?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HBDIlaiyaraaja</a></p>&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://x.com/ikamalhaasan/status/2061658696917422162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Kamal Haasan starred in many films for which Ilaiyaraja composed music, including <em>16 Vayathinile, Nayakan, Raaja Paarvai, Apoorva Sagodharargal, Moondram Pirai</em>, and <em>Mahanadhi</em>.</p><p>Legendary music composer Ilaiyaraaja greeted fans who gathered outside his office in Kodambakkam to wish him on the occasion.</p><p>The celebrated composer, fondly referred to as "Isaignani" by his admirers, stepped out of his Kodambakkam office and acknowledged the crowd with folded hands and a warm smile. </p><p>Fans carrying bouquets, garlands and banners cheered enthusiastically as they caught a glimpse of the maestro.</p><p>Widely regarded as one of India's greatest music composers, Ilaiyaraaja has composed music for over a thousand films and created thousands of songs across multiple Indian languages.</p><p>Recognised as one of the most prolific composers in India, Ilaiyaraaja is known for working in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi films.</p><p>'En Kanmani Kadhali', 'Ragam Kaetkum Kaalam', 'Aye Zindagi Gale Lagaa Le', 'Vaishnav Jana To' are some of the iconic songs, which he has composed. </p><p>He also received the prestigious Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan in 2010 and 2018, respectively. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/jailer-3-whos-the-dark-horse-roped-in-to-direct-rajinikanth-and-kamal-haasan">'Jailer 3'?: All about the filmmaker roped in to direct Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/ar-rahman-birthday-peddi-star-ram-charan-extends-his-wishes">AR Rahman birthday: 'Peddi' star Ram Charan extends his wishes</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/indian-director-bharatiraja-hospitalised-after-breathlessness-is-stable">Indian director Bharathiraja, hospitalised after breathlessness, is stable</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>&apos;Cocktail 2&apos; trailer out: Shahid, Rashmika, Kriti Sanon star in a chaotic love triangle</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/cocktail-2-trailer-out-shahid-kapoor-rashmika-kriti-sanon</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/cocktail-2-trailer-out-shahid-kapoor-rashmika-kriti-sanon#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">b2d86ab6-6598-405f-8fbd-50b2b1efd5af</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 11:26:58 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-02T11:26:58.246Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna and Kriti Sanon are set to bring a chaotic love story to the big screens with their upcoming film &apos;Cocktail 2&apos;. The much-awaited trailer of the movie is finally out. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1452" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/6mxrk14h/http___doc_afp_com_B36B4TX.jpeg" width="2581"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>(from left) Bollywood actors Kriti Sanon, Rashmika Mandanna and Shahid Kapoor</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/6mxrk14h/http___doc_afp_com_B36B4TX.jpeg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna and Kriti Sanon are set to bring a chaotic love story to the big screens with their upcoming film <em>Cocktail 2</em>. The much-awaited trailer of the movie is finally out. </p><p>The almost three-minute trailer of the film features a tale of chaos, confusion and heartbreak between three friends, Kunal (Shahid Kapoor), Diya (Rashmika Mandanna) and Ally (Kriti Sanon). </p><p>In the trailer, the lead cast were seen travelling, where the trio explore their friendship and different aspects of their relationship.</p><p>The movie is directed by Homi Adajania and is written by Tarun Jain and Luv Ranjan. The music of the film is composed by Pritam. </p><p>Maddock Film shared the trailer on their YouTube handle on Tuesday. </p><figure><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XXxUqLHq1xg?si=EP9LGyNIrjfBegAw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>Prior to the trailer, the makers have already released the chartbuster songs from the film. Recently, they released the romantic track 'Tujhko', unveiling a soulful duet that brings together celebrated singers Arijit Singh and Sunidhi Chauhan in a deeply emotional musical collaboration.</p><p>The visuals of the song feature Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna in warm, sunlit frames, with summer-inspired aesthetics and flowing silhouettes. The music video focuses on quiet, affectionate moments between the characters.</p><p>The other tracks from the movie include 'Mashooqa' and 'Jab Talak'. The movie is slated to release in theatres on June 19. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/cocktail-2-first-song-poster">Look: 'Cocktail 2' first song to release on April 8, makers drop new posters</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/cocktail-2-first-look-posters-out-makers-announce-teaser-release-date">'Cocktail 2' first look posters out: Makers announce teaser release date</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Arabic stand-up is booming, but it needs deeper storytelling, says John Achkar</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/arabic-comedy-needs-deeper-storytelling-john-achkar</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/arabic-comedy-needs-deeper-storytelling-john-achkar#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">834cf36d-adc9-441d-9896-975ca6c7550a</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:29:25 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-02T10:29:25.296Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Waad Barakat</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173930</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="2176" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/8nkh8l2x/DSC04476-39.jpg" width="3868"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p> John Achkar</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/8nkh8l2x/DSC04476-39.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>As Arabic stand-up comedy reaches larger audiences across streaming platforms, world tours and sold-out theatres, Lebanese comedian John Achkar believes the industry's biggest challenge is no longer visibility, but quality.</p><p>The comedian, whose stand-up special <em>Aam Jarrib (Tryin')</em> recently premiered on Shahid after a tour spanning 85 cities, said Arab comedy is enjoying unprecedented momentum. However, he warned that comedians must focus on developing the craft rather than chasing online fame.</p><p>"I don't think all of us are taking our art form very seriously," Achkar told Khaleej Times. "If we're just doing stand-up to be famous, there are so many other ways to get famous."</p><p>His comments come as Arabic stand-up continues to expand beyond the region, attracting audiences across Europe, North America, and Australia. Yet Achkar believes success should not be measured solely by ticket sales, social media views, or viral clips.</p><p>"The deal was never about filling rooms," he said. "There are many ways to fill a room. The difficult question is, why are you filling this room, and what do you want to say when people are sitting in it?"</p><p>For Achkar, comedy should leave audiences with something to reflect on after the laughter fades.</p><p>"I do believe in social and political change. Not necessarily that every comedian should have the same purpose, but without a reason behind what we're doing, we will be lost," he said.</p><p>The comedian pointed to a growing trend of creators relying on viral content to build careers in stand-up, arguing that online popularity does not always translate into strong live performances.</p><p>"People think that if they're going viral online, it directly translates into great shows," he said. "You can fill rooms once or twice, but the question remains: why are you doing what you're doing?"</p><p>Achkar's own journey has been closely tied to social media. After years of performing small open-mic sets in Lebanon, his breakthrough came in 2022 when a five-minute performance at the Dubai Comedy Festival generated millions of views online.</p><p>The clip transformed his career almost overnight.</p><p>"It was a sudden move from 7,000 followers to 100,000 followers," he recalled. "I remember texting my wife and saying, 'I think my life has changed.'"</p><p>The success led to international tours, larger productions and a rapidly growing fan base. But Achkar said the experience also taught him that sustained success requires far more than internet attention.</p><p>"Every day should be a laboratory," he said. "Other art forms spend years working on their craft. That's what stand-up needs if we want it to be recognised at the same level."</p><p>While he continues to experiment with English and French-language performances in Montreal, Achkar says Arabic remains the language where he feels most connected to audiences.</p><p>"I would love to perform my whole life in Arabic," he said. "In Arabic, I can go directly into the story. There is already a shared understanding with the audience."</p><p>Looking at the future of Arab comedy, Achkar remains optimistic. He believes the region has the talent and audience needed to build a thriving stand-up scene, but only if comedians remain focused on substance rather than hype.</p><p>"How many people reflected on your show on their way home?" he said. "How many people were still discussing the topics weeks later? That's how I define success."</p><p>As Arabic stand-up comedy reaches larger audiences across streaming platforms, world tours, and sold-out theatres, Lebanese comedian John Achkar believes the industry's biggest challenge is no longer visibility, but quality.</p><p>The comedian, whose stand-up special <em>Aam Jarrib (Tryin')</em> recently premiered on Shahid after a tour spanning 85 cities, said Arab comedy is enjoying unprecedented momentum. However, he warned that comedians must focus on developing the craft rather than chasing online fame.</p><p>"I don't think all of us are taking our art form very seriously," Achkar told Khaleej Times. "If we're just doing stand-up to be famous, there are so many other ways to get famous."</p><p>His comments come as Arabic stand-up continues to expand beyond the region, attracting audiences across Europe, North America and Australia. Yet Achkar believes success should not be measured solely by ticket sales, social media views or viral clips.</p><p>"The deal was never about filling rooms," he said. "There are many ways to fill a room. The difficult question is why are you filling this room, and what do you want to say when people are sitting in it?"</p><p>For Achkar, comedy should leave audiences with something to reflect on after the laughter fades.</p><p>"I do believe in social and political change. Not necessarily that every comedian should have the same purpose, but without a reason behind what we're doing, we will be lost," he said.</p><p>The comedian pointed to a growing trend of creators relying on viral content to build careers in stand-up, arguing that online popularity does not always translate into strong live performances.</p><p>"People think that if they're going viral online, it directly translates into great shows," he said. "You can fill rooms once or twice, but the question remains: why are you doing what you're doing?"</p><p>Achkar's own journey has been closely tied to social media. After years performing small open-mic sets in Lebanon, his breakthrough came in 2022 when a five-minute performance at the Dubai Comedy Festival generated millions of views online.</p><p>The clip transformed his career almost overnight.</p><p>"It was a sudden move from 7,000 followers to 100,000 followers," he recalled. "I remember texting my wife and saying, 'I think my life has changed.'"</p><p>The success led to international tours, larger productions and a rapidly growing fan base. But Achkar said the experience also taught him that sustained success requires far more than internet attention.</p><p>"Every day should be a laboratory," he said. "Other art forms spend years working on their craft. That's what stand-up needs if we want it to be recognised at the same level."</p><p>While he continues to experiment with English and French-language performances in Montreal, Achkar says Arabic remains the language where he feels most connected to audiences.</p><p>"I would love to perform my whole life in Arabic," he said. "In Arabic, I can go directly into the story. There is already a shared understanding with the audience."</p><p>Looking at the future of Arab comedy, Achkar remains optimistic. He believes the region has the talent and audience needed to build a thriving stand-up scene, but only if comedians remain focused on substance rather than hype.</p><p>"How many people reflected on your show on their way home?" he said. "How many people were still discussing the topics weeks later? That's how I define success."</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/john-achkar-aam-jarrib-shahid-olympia-special">Arabic stand-up goes global as John Achkar’s ‘Aam Jarrib’ lands on Shahid</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/vir-das-on-happy-patel-how-bollywoods-spy-boom-finally-made-his-comedy-film-possible">Vir Das on 'Happy Patel': How Bollywood's spy boom finally made his comedy film possible</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>The viral tanning hacks dermatologists wish people would stop trying</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/viral-tanning-hacks-dermatologists-warn-against-summer-2026</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/viral-tanning-hacks-dermatologists-warn-against-summer-2026#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">396df5c4-6392-4f25-8a43-4c48a0da60b0</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 08:53:11 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-02T08:53:11.841Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Waad Barakat</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173930</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="380" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/z0r19zk1/db3aa373_53cd_4243_8ff2_5886cbd3c6ab_org.jpg" width="675"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"><![CDATA[ Skin tips for summer with no fuss]]></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/z0r19zk1/db3aa373_53cd_4243_8ff2_5886cbd3c6ab_org.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><category>Health</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>As temperatures rise and beach season gets into full swing, social media feeds are once again filled with videos promising the perfect summer glow.</p><p>From users applying baby oil under the sun to influencers sharing "tanning schedules" and DIY tanning mixtures, platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become hotspots for tanning advice. Many of the videos rack up millions of views, with creators claiming their methods can help achieve a darker tan in less time.</p><p>But dermatologists say some of these viral hacks come with serious risks.</p><p>"The biggest misconception is that there is such a thing as a safe tan from sun exposure," said Dr Nuha Shareef, &nbsp;a Dubai-based dermatologist "A tan is actually a sign that the skin has been damaged by ultraviolet radiation. The darker colour is the skin's attempt to protect itself."</p><p>One of the most common trends involves applying baby oil, coconut oil or even olive oil before spending hours in direct sunlight. Social media users often claim these products help attract and intensify the sun's rays.</p><p>According to experts, that is precisely the problem.</p><p>"These oils do not provide adequate protection from UV radiation and can increase the likelihood of burns," explained Dr Nuha. "People are essentially exposing their skin to prolonged damage while believing they are improving their tan."</p><p>Another trend gaining traction online is the use of tanning accelerators, products marketed as helping users develop a tan more quickly. While some contain ingredients designed to boost skin pigmentation, experts caution that they do not eliminate the harmful effects of UV exposure.</p><p>"If someone is relying on UV exposure to activate these products, the risk remains the same," she added. "The skin is still being exposed to radiation that can contribute to premature ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer."</p><p>Perhaps the most concerning advice circulating online is the suggestion that sunscreen should be skipped altogether.</p><p>Videos encouraging users to avoid SPF often claim that sunscreen blocks tanning entirely, a statement dermatologists say is misleading.</p><p>"You can still tan while wearing sunscreen," said &nbsp;Dr Mohammed Muntasir, dermatologist consultant. "No sunscreen blocks 100 per cent of UV rays. The difference is that sunscreen helps reduce the amount of damage your skin experiences during exposure."</p><p>Experts also warn against viral videos promoting specific "safe tanning hours". While UV intensity may vary throughout the day, they say there is no completely risk-free window for intentional tanning.</p><p>In countries such as the UAE, where UV levels can remain high for much of the year, the effects can be even more pronounced.</p><p>"People often underestimate UV exposure, especially on cloudy days or while sitting under an umbrella," said Dr Mohammed. "Heat and UV radiation are not the same thing. You can still sustain significant skin damage even if you don't feel particularly hot."</p><p>DIY tanning mixtures have also become increasingly popular online, with users mixing ingredients such as coffee grounds, cocoa powder and various oils in an attempt to create homemade tanning solutions.</p><p>While some recipes are relatively harmless, dermatologists warn that others can trigger irritation, allergic reactions or post-inflammatory pigmentation, particularly for people with sensitive skin.</p><p>"Natural doesn't automatically mean safe," said Dr Mohammed. "Many people assume that because an ingredient comes from the kitchen, it is suitable for the skin. That's not always the case."</p><p>The appeal of tanning remains strong, particularly as bronzed skin continues to be associated with holidays, outdoor lifestyles and beauty trends promoted online. However, experts say there has been a noticeable shift in recent years toward safer alternatives.</p><p>Self-tanning products, including mousses, drops and gradual tanning lotions, have become increasingly popular among consumers looking to achieve a sun-kissed appearance without prolonged UV exposure.</p><p>"For those who enjoy the look of tanned skin, self-tanners are generally a much safer option," said UAE-based dermatologist, Malaz Al Amin. &nbsp;"They provide cosmetic colour without causing the DNA damage associated with ultraviolet radiation."</p><p>As tanning content continues to trend across social media, dermatologists are urging users to approach viral beauty advice with caution.</p><p>"The number of views a video receives is not an indication of whether the advice is safe," said Dr Malaz. "When it comes to your skin, it is always worth checking expert guidance before trying the latest trend."</p><p>For many experts, the message is simple: a temporary glow is rarely worth long-term skin damage.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/lifestyle/kids-makeup-emotional-harm-viral-skincare-trend">Kids using makeup? UAE parents warned over viral skincare trends</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/uae-doctor-warn-against-eid-henna-children">'Second-degree burn from henna': UAE doctor's stark Eid warning to parents</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Alexa Demie denies retirement rumours after &apos;Euphoria&apos;, says future plans remain private</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/alexa-demie-denies-retirement-rumours-after-euphoria</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/alexa-demie-denies-retirement-rumours-after-euphoria#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">ec2fb173-ae0f-41bb-bf25-9630d96f4093</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 08:34:22 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-02T08:35:19.985Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Alexa Demie has firmly dismissed speculation that she is retiring from acting following the conclusion of &apos;Euphoria&apos;, saying she has no plans to step away from the industry even as her journey as Maddy Perez comes to an end.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="487" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/svimm2yl/ANI_20260601100755.jpg" width="866"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Alexa Demie </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/svimm2yl/ANI_20260601100755.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Alexa Demie has firmly dismissed speculation that she is retiring from acting following the conclusion of <em>Euphoria</em>, saying she has no plans to step away from the industry even as her journey as Maddy Perez comes to an end.</p><p>The actor, who plays fan-favourite character Maddy Perez in HBO's acclaimed drama series, addressed the rumours in an interview with <em>The Hollywood Reporter.</em></p><p>While Demie confirmed she will be saying goodbye to Maddy after the show's finale, she made it clear that her acting career is far from over.</p><p>"There are goals, and things that I want," Demie said, adding, "but I'm choosing to keep that private."</p><p>Keeping details about her next move under wraps, she added, "I like my life like this, and I wouldn't change it."</p><p>Rumours about Demie potentially leaving acting originated from comments she made during a 2020 appearance in an interview.</p><p>At that time, the actor reflected on her struggles before landing her breakthrough role in <em>Euphoria</em>.</p><p>Demie recalled becoming frustrated with audition opportunities that appeared to favour white actors for lead roles. As a half-Mexican woman, she questioned where Latina performers fit within the industry.</p><p>Reflecting on one particular experience from her early 20s, she said she noticed that actors of Hispanic descent were excluded from a lengthy list of approved ethnicities for a lead role.</p><p>"I was reading it, and it really hit me, and I kept having that experience," she said, adding, "I was sick of going into those rooms."</p><p>Demie acknowledged that she occasionally considered walking away from acting during those years, but stressed that she never truly intended to quit.</p><p>"This was during that time when you're young, and every few months you're just like, 'I'm quitting, I'm quitting,'" she said, adding, "But knowing me, I never would have quit. I'm more of the energy of like, 'No, I'm going to show you I can do it.'"</p><p>Her breakthrough eventually came with <em>Euphoria</em>, although securing the role of Maddy Perez was not without challenges.</p><p>Demie revealed that the final stages of the casting process became about more than simply landing the part.</p><p>"I was like Joan of Arc," she recalled, adding, "At that point it wasn't about getting the show anymore, it was about going into that room and being seen."</p><p>Beyond her acting career, Demie also addressed her long-standing preference for privacy.</p><p>Despite starring in one of television's most talked-about series, she has largely stayed away from the spotlight and indicated that she has no intention of changing that approach.</p><p>"It's like, did you ever think that I don't want it?" she said while discussing fame, adding, "People really take the authority out of your hands. What happened to my ability to choose?"</p><p>With <em>Euphoria</em> now reaching the end of an era for her character, Demie has put retirement speculation to rest.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/euphoria-season-3-final-ending">'Euphoria' season 3 finale marks end of Zendaya-led HBO drama series</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/eric-dane-final-performance-euphoria-season-3-confirmed">Eric Dane's final performance in 'Euphoria' season 3 confirmed</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>&apos;Drishyam 3&apos; shoot wrapped: Director confirms film enters post-production</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/drishyam-3-shoot-wrapped</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/drishyam-3-shoot-wrapped#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">aeb452ee-4299-4abc-825f-0c0bf220c2e9</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 08:27:37 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-02T08:27:37.275Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ &lt;p&gt;The filming of &apos;Drishyam 3&apos; has officially been completed, with the highly anticipated thriller now moving into post-production ahead of its theatrical release on October 2, 2026.&lt;/p&gt;]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1200" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/18q2f6n3/ANI_20260602073723.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/18q2f6n3/ANI_20260602073723.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The filming of <em>Drishyam 3</em> has officially been completed, with the highly anticipated thriller now moving into post-production ahead of its theatrical release on October 2.</p><p>Director Abhishek Pathak announced the wrap-up on social media, marking the end of what he described as a long and intensive production journey.</p><p>The filmmaker shared a heartfelt note thanking the cast, crew and everyone involved in bringing the next chapter of the franchise to life.</p><p>"And that's a wrap on the shoot of #Drishyam3," Pathak wrote.</p><p>Reflecting on the filmmaking process, he added, "For the past many months, this film has been our world. We've spent countless days and nights together, chasing scenes, solving problems, sharing laughs, overcoming challenges, and slowly bringing this story to life."</p><p>Pathak expressed gratitude to the team for their dedication throughout the production schedule.</p><p>"To everyone I've tagged here, and the many other incredible people behind the scenes, thank you. Thank you for your trust, your hard work, your patience, and for believing in this film every step of the way. There were good days, difficult days, and crazy days, but you showed up every single time and gave it everything you had," he wrote.</p><figure><script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZDEykSiJR1/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding: 16px;">
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div>
<div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div>
</div>
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DZDEykSiJR1/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" rel="noopener" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ABHISHEK PATHAK (@abhishekpathakk)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote></figure><p>The director further highlighted the collective effort behind the project, saying, "This film carries a piece of all of you. Your effort, your passion, and your heart can be found in every frame."</p><p>"I'm incredibly grateful to have shared this journey with such amazing people. Thank you for helping me tell this story," he added.</p><p>Featuring Ajay Devgn, Tabu and Shriya Saran, <em>Drishyam 3</em> continues to be an anticipated suspense-thriller franchises. Known for its gripping storytelling and psychological depth, the <em>Drishyam</em> series has earned a strong following among audiences over the years.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/vaazha-3-first-look-poster-out-likely-to-star-all-women-lead-cast-2">'Vaazha 3' first look poster out, likely to star all-women lead cast</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/mohanlals-drishyam-3-release-date-pushed-to-coincide-with-actors-birthday">Mohanlal's 'Drishyam 3' release date pushed, to coincide with actor's birthday </a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Taylor Swift pens song for &apos;Toy Story 5&apos;, calls it a dream project</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/taylor-swift-write-a-song-for-toy-story-5</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/taylor-swift-write-a-song-for-toy-story-5#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">e183316c-d8c1-4dd0-a5a5-6794ca750630</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 06:11:57 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-02T06:11:57.171Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Global pop superstar Taylor Swift has announced that she has written and recorded an original song for Pixar&apos;s upcoming animated feature &apos;Toy Story 5&apos;, according to Billboard. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/j7ah93tn/ANI_20260602031754.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Taylor Swift</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-02/j7ah93tn/ANI_20260602031754.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Global pop superstar Taylor Swift has announced that she has written and recorded an original song for Pixar's upcoming animated feature <em>Toy Story 5</em>, according to Billboard. </p><p>The singer revealed that her new track, titled 'I Knew It, I Knew You,' will be featured on the soundtrack of the highly anticipated fifth installment of the beloved franchise. The song is set to be released on June 19, the same day the film arrives in theatres.</p><p>Sharing the news with fans on Instagram, Swift expressed her longtime affection for the iconic characters.</p><p>"I've always dreamed of getting to write for these characters who I've adored since I was a 5-year-old kid watching the first Toy Story movie," Swift wrote.</p><p>The singer said she was inspired to write the song immediately after getting an early look at the film.</p><p>"I fell instantly in love with Toy Story 5 when I was lucky enough to see it in its early stages, and I wrote this song as soon as I got home from the screening," she continued, according to Billboard. </p><p>"Sometimes you just know, right?" she added.</p><p>Physical copies of 'I Knew It, I Knew You,' along with acoustic and piano versions, are currently available for purchase through Swift's official website.</p><p>The announcement followed a Toy Story-themed countdown on Swift's website, which featured fan-favourite cowgirl Jessie waving from the corner of the screen. The countdown also showcased a "TS" billboard, matching real-life blue-and-yellow signs that recently appeared in various locations around the world.</p><p>Pixar had also been teasing Swift's involvement ahead of the official reveal. The studio shared images of the billboards and a video of Jessie dancing beside one of the signs. Fans quickly pointed out that the billboard design featured 13 clouds, a likely nod to Swift's lucky number.</p><p>In a social media post shared on May 30, Pixar referenced Swift's hit song 'Shake It Off,' writing, "She's making those moves up as she goes!"</p><p>The collaboration could potentially earn Swift her first Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Composer-songwriter Randy Newman received Oscar nominations for songs from each of the first four <em>Toy Story</em> films. He earned nominations for 'You've Got a Friend in Me' from the original 1995 film, 'When She Loved Me' from <em>Toy Story 2</em>, won the Oscar for 'We Belong Together' from <em>Toy Story 3</em>, and was nominated again for 'I Can't Let You Throw Yourself Away' from <em>Toy Story 4.</em></p><p><em>Toy Story 5</em> will see Tom Hanks and Tim Allen reprise their iconic roles as Woody and Buzz Lightyear. The film follows the beloved group of toys as they face competition for children's attention from a new tablet called Lilypad.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/finding-nemo-dory-ellen-degeneres-tease-pixar-short">Is Dory from 'Finding Nemo' coming back? Ellen DeGeneres drops a tease</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/tom-hanks-explains-woody-bald-spot-toy-story-5-teaser">Tom Hanks explains Toy Story 5 Woody’s viral bald spot, fans react to first teaser</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>&apos;Euphoria&apos; season 3 finale marks end of Zendaya-led HBO drama series</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/euphoria-season-3-final-ending</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/euphoria-season-3-final-ending#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">c17194e5-34a9-4bbf-90b4-8e0d7035dfe1</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 13:18:26 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-01T13:18:26.447Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ HBO&apos;s acclaimed drama series Euphoria has officially come to an end, with creator Sam Levinson confirming that season three served as the show&apos;s final chapter.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1200" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/yfig6m1h/ANI_20260601094326.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>A still from 'Euphoria'</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/yfig6m1h/ANI_20260601094326.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>HBO's acclaimed drama series <em>Euphoria</em> has officially come to an end, with creator Sam Levinson confirming that season three served as the show's final chapter.</p><p>The announcement came shortly after the season three finale premiered on Sunday.</p><p>The finale delivered several major developments, including multiple character deaths and an emotional tribute to actor Angus Cloud, who died in 2023 at the age of 25 from acute intoxication following an accidental overdose.</p><p>While the confirmation marks the official end of the series, the news may not come as a surprise to longtime viewers.</p><p>Zendaya had previously indicated in interviews that she believed season three would be the show's final season. The series also experienced a four-year gap between its second and third seasons.</p><p>Addressing the lengthy delay, Francesca Orsi, executive vice president of HBO Programming and head of HBO drama series and films, recently was quoted as saying, "It was important that everyone felt season three was moving the story forward in a meaningful and ambitious way. When Sam began sharing how much more expansive the world of the show would feel this season, there was genuine excitement about returning."</p><p>Ahead of the final episodes, Levinson had urged fans to watch them as soon as they became available, hinting at significant developments.</p><p>"If you're not watching episodes seven and eight live, the moment they drop, they will get spoiled," he said, adding, "There's some big things that happen."</p><p>With season three now confirmed as the final instalment, <em>Euphoria</em> closes the book on one of HBO's most talked-about drama series.</p><p><em>Euphoria</em> season three is currently streaming on HBO Max. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/the-bear-final-season-june-premiere-fx-series-ending">Final service and goodbye dinners: ‘The Bear’ to end with Season 5 this June</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/emily-in-paris-set-to-end-with-sixth-season">Netflix series 'Emily in Paris' set to conclude with sixth season</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Was Dua Lipa&apos;s Serpenti wedding necklace worth Dh2.1 million?</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-wedding-necklace-bulgari-serpenti-cost</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-wedding-necklace-bulgari-serpenti-cost#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">6977b62d-e143-4833-9238-e755414199c8</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:55:50 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-01T11:55:50.092Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Somya Mehta</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173915</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="608" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/00710n7z/dua-lipa-wearing-custom-schiaparelli-couture-for-her-v0-w8y5sgxlsh4h1.webp" width="1080"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/00710n7z/dua-lipa-wearing-custom-schiaparelli-couture-for-her-v0-w8y5sgxlsh4h1.webp?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><category>Fashion</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>British singer Dua Lipa may have kept her London wedding sweet and low‑key, but her jewellery told a very different story.</p><p>On May 31, the Grammy‑winning hitmaker behind <em>New Rules, Levitating</em> and <em>Don’t Start Now</em> married actor Callum Turner at London’s Old Marylebone Town Hall in front of a tiny circle of family and friends.&nbsp;</p><p>The visuals didn’t feature the usual wedding suspects. No floral arch for Instagram feeds, no princess ball gown. Instead, Lipa arrived in a sharp <a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-schiaparelli-wedding-suit-callum-turner">white Schiaparelli skirt suit</a>, paired with sheer gloves and a dramatic hat, channelling 1970s Bianca Jagger for a new generation. Part London courthouse, part haute couture runway, the ensemble was civil-ceremony chic at its finest. And then there was the necklace.</p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/fpenglz3/dua-lipa-wearing-custom-schiaparelli-couture-for-her-v0-o1hklatlsh4h1.webp" /><figcaption><div class="paragraphs"><p>Dua Lipa and Callum Turner at London's Old Marylebone Town Hall following their civil ceremony</p></div></figcaption></figure><p>Paired with the finely-tailored skirt suit was a Bulgari Serpenti neckpiece in white gold, coiled around her neck and blazing with diamonds. </p><p>Jewellery insiders have already matched it to a Serpenti design listed on luxury marketplace, 1stDib, for around £430,000 (approx. Dh2,125,833) reportedly set with more than 75 carats of diamonds, right down to the pear‑shaped stones used for the snake’s eyes. In other words, Lipa basically wore the equivalent of a Notting Hill townhouse as a choker.</p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/y0lxrxn3/j_19994102_1690993958987_bg_processed.webp" /><figcaption><div class="paragraphs"><p>Photo:&nbsp;1stDib</p></div></figcaption></figure><p>The British pop star sure chose a wedding ceremony that many will deem intimate, almost disarmingly 'normal' for someone of her profile. However, this one piece of jewellery carries it right back to the pop‑star territory.</p><p>And of course, this is just chapter one. The London town‑hall 'I do' is the legal, low‑key prelude to the couple’s much more lavish Sicilian celebration, where the old‑world Mediterranean landscape will take centre stage. If the civil ceremony came with a £430k 'snake' around her neck, you get the feeling that Sicily is where the pop star, not just the bride, will <em>really</em> show up.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-schiaparelli-wedding-suit-callum-turner">Dua Lipa ditches traditional wedding gown for custom Schiaparelli suit at civil ceremony</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-marries-callum-turner-in-intimate-london-ceremony">Dua Lipa marries Callum Turner in intimate London ceremony</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Watch: Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma celebrate IPL win with dance; video wins hearts </title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/watch-virat-kohli-anushka-sharma-celebrate-ipl-win-with-dance-video-wins-hearts</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/watch-virat-kohli-anushka-sharma-celebrate-ipl-win-with-dance-video-wins-hearts#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">664e0d6a-174a-4225-a4b5-0d26de2bfd7f</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 08:01:45 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-01T08:01:45.397Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Actor Anushka Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli were seen dancing and celebrating at Royal Challengers Bengaluru&apos;s (RCB) victory party after the franchise clinched its second consecutive Indian Premier League (IPL) title, with videos from the celebration quickly going viral on social media.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="2903" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/ls1k4hlx/http___doc_afp_com_B4K99F2.jpeg" width="4355"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>RCB's Indian cricket player Virat Kohli (left) celebrates with  his wife and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/ls1k4hlx/http___doc_afp_com_B4K99F2.jpeg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Actor Anushka Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli were seen dancing and celebrating at Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) victory party after the franchise clinched its second consecutive Indian Premier League (IPL) title, with videos from the celebration quickly going viral on social media.</p><p>A video shared by RCB captured the couple enjoying the post-match celebrations after the team secured a five-wicket victory over the Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad, India on Sunday.</p><p>"King Kohli's masterclass on the dance floor...Pure vibes. Wholesome. And so much more. Anushka Sharma, thank you for being our Day 1," the caption reads along with the video.</p><p>As the team gathered to mark the achievement, Virat and Anushka appeared in high spirits, sharing joyful moments together on the dance floor. The video also showed Virat breaking into a celebratory dance with RCB batting coach Dinesh Karthik.</p><figure><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZBlh-WukFr/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZBlh-WukFr/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZBlh-WukFr/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@royalchallengers.bengaluru)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Fans expressed their excitement and reacted to the video. One of the social media users wrote, "This trophy is unmatched", while another commented, "Virat on field.. Virat on dance floor."</p><p>Apart from the couple's dance, Virat's T-shirt also grabbed attention. He sported a T-shirt carrying the message, "One felt nice, we did twice," referencing RCB's back-to-back IPL titles.</p><p>Following the historic win, Anushka gave a special shout-out to her husband on social media. She shared a picture of Virat flaunting the T-shirt from the after-party on her Instagram and accompanied it with a heart emoji.</p><p>Earlier, during the title-winning moments at the stadium, Anushka, seated in the VIP stand, quickly rose to applaud RCB's achievement.</p><p>The star batter immediately looked towards the stands and blew a flying kiss to her.</p><p>Videos and pictures of the exchange quickly went viral on social media as fans celebrated yet another memorable "Virushka" moment. Anushka later joined the celebrations on the field as RCB players lifted the IPL trophy in front of a packed crowd. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/sports/cricket/virat-kohli-stars-as-rcb-beat-gujarat-to-clinch-ipl-title">Incredible scenes as Virat Kohli stars in RCB's IPL triumph </a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/sports/cricket/i-dont-have-words-patidar-hails-kohli-after-rcbs-ipl-triumph">'I don't have words...': Patidar hails Kohli after RCB's IPL triumph</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Tom Holland ready to pass the &apos;Spider-Man&apos; mantle, hints at future Marvel successor</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/tom-holland-ready-to-pass-the-spider-man-mantle</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/tom-holland-ready-to-pass-the-spider-man-mantle#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">920aa642-da33-4960-bb5a-5329b1f49e77</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 07:35:29 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-01T07:35:29.532Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Tom Holland has revealed that he is looking forward to helping usher in the next generation of Spider-Man characters, saying he would like to play a role in introducing whoever eventually takes over the franchise.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/6ez65bbo/ANI_20260531152248.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Tom Holland </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/6ez65bbo/ANI_20260531152248.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>ة Tom Holland has revealed that he is looking forward to helping usher in the next generation of <em>Spider-Man</em> characters, saying he would like to play a role in introducing whoever eventually takes over the franchise.</p><p>As per Variety, in a recent interview, the actor reflected on the future of the Spider-Man mantle and expressed interest in supporting the next lead, much like Robert Downey Jr helped introduce him to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).</p><p>"For whoever's next, whether that is a Miles Morales or a Spider-Gwen or a Spider-Woman or something like that, I would love to be a part of setting up the next chapter," Holland said, adding, "Whatever that looks like, I don't know. But if I could do what Downey did for me, then I would be so content swinging off into the sunset," as quoted by Variety.</p><p>Holland was referring to Robert Downey Jr's Tony Stark, who introduced Peter Parker into the MCU in 2016's <em>Captain America: Civil War</em>.</p><p>The mentor-student relationship continued until Stark's death in 2019's <em>Avengers: Endgame</em>. Downey is set to return to the MCU as the villain Dr Doom in <em>Avengers: Doomsday.</em></p><p>Since making his debut as Spider-Man, Holland has become one of Marvel's biggest stars.</p><p>His first standalone outing, <em>Spider-Man: Homecoming</em>, earned USD880 million worldwide in 2017.</p><p>The franchise expanded significantly with <em>Spider-Man: Far From Home</em> grossing USD1.1 billion globally in 2019, followed by <em>Spider-Man: No Way Home</em>, which reached USD1.9 billion worldwide in 2021.</p><p>The actor is currently preparing for the release of the next Spider-Man film, <em>Spider-Man: Brand New Day</em>, which is scheduled to arrive in theatres on July 31.</p><p>In a recent interview, Holland also shared an update on the film's production, revealing that additional scenes were being filmed to further enhance the final cut.</p><p>"I can positively say that the stuff we're doing, we don't need," Holland said, adding, "The movie works and sings as it is. We're just adding the icing on the cake in certain areas. We're finding some ways to add a little bit more humour. We're layering in a villain plotline in a new way and some really fun stuff."</p><p>With <em>Brand New Day</em> nearing its theatrical release, Holland's comments offer a glimpse into both the future of the Spider-Man franchise and his hopes of helping shape its next chapter. </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/spider-man-brand-new-day-poster-reveal">'Brand New Day' poster reveal: Tom Holland promises ‘most emotional’ Spider-Man yet</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/spider-man-brand-new-day-teases-rebirth-for-marvels-web-slinger">'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' teases rebirth for Marvel's web-slinger </a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Dua Lipa ditches traditional wedding gown for custom Schiaparelli suit at civil ceremony</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-schiaparelli-wedding-suit-callum-turner</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-schiaparelli-wedding-suit-callum-turner#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">99b4fc89-39cd-4175-91c2-4b05ac5d60dd</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 07:12:13 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-01T07:18:45.585Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Somya Mehta</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173915</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="608" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/43b7zpa1/dua-lipa-wearing-custom-schiaparelli-couture-for-her-v0-hnagpzzlsh4h1.webp" width="1080"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/43b7zpa1/dua-lipa-wearing-custom-schiaparelli-couture-for-her-v0-hnagpzzlsh4h1.webp?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><category>Fashion</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>For her civil ceremony to Callum Turner at London’s Old Marylebone Town Hall, Dua Lipa decided to bypass the traditional gown entirely, embracing a masterclass of vintage storytelling courtesy of custom Schiaparelli haute couture.</p><p>Designed by creative director Daniel Roseberry, the ensemble was a breathtaking ode to Old Hollywood classics, filtered through a distinct 1970s sartorial lens. </p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/zs5l2tz2/dua_lipa_wearing_custom_schiaparelli_couture_for_her_v0_o1hklatlsh4h1.webp" /><figcaption><div class="paragraphs"><p>Dua Lipa and Callum Turner at London's Old Marylebone Town Hall following their civil ceremony</p></div></figcaption></figure><p>At the heart of the look was a sharply tailored ivory cady blazer featuring Schiaparelli’s signature personalised gold bijoux buttons. The masculine silhouette was cleverly balanced by feminine elegance, softened by a sculpted blush-toned bustier with delicate white lace peeking out from beneath the lapels.</p><p>But the true showstopping moment came from the asymmetric skirt that has the Internet talking. Unstructured, midi-length in the front and longer at the back, the hemline created a fluid 'faux veil' train effect as the singer descended the town hall steps.</p><p>The references to vintage bridal royalty were evident, immediately evoking Bianca Jagger’s iconic 1971 Saint Laurent wedding suit. </p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/h4ross2l/biana_jagger.png" /><figcaption><div class="paragraphs"><p>Bianca Jagger arrives for her wedding to Mick Jagger in 1971, wearing the now-iconic Yves Saint Laurent</p></div></figcaption></figure><p>Lipa honoured that rebellious, chic aesthetic while adding her own edge. She accessorised with white gloves and sleek Christian Louboutin pumps, finished with a wide-brimmed Stephen Jones hat lined with metallic gold leaf on the underside.</p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/261vbzkz/dua_lipa_wearing_custom_schiaparelli_couture_for_her_v0_w8y5sgxlsh4h1.webp" /><figcaption><div class="paragraphs"><p>Dua Lipa's bridal ensemble featured a custom Schiaparell skirt-suit</p></div></figcaption></figure><p>Finally, to balance the structural sharpness of the suit, the singer turned to Bulgari’s Serpenti line, with a white-gold necklace dripping in diamonds. With her hair styled in effortless waves and her makeup kept soft and neutral, the look remained modern yet rooted in an old-world charm we don't often get to see in contemporary bridal fashion.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-marries-callum-turner-in-intimate-london-ceremony">Dua Lipa marries Callum Turner in intimate London ceremony</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/lifestyle/diwali-jewellery-trends-2025">Diwali jewellery trends in 2025: Why convertibles, hand chokers are replacing heavy gold</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt&apos;s son Maddox is dropping &apos;Pitt&apos; from his surname</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/angelina-jolie-brad-pitt-son-maddox-drop-pitt-name</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/angelina-jolie-brad-pitt-son-maddox-drop-pitt-name#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">40561cd7-1471-4dd6-9dd0-3cd6b53a78b9</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 06:27:25 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-01T06:27:25.553Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt&apos;s eldest son, Maddox, has filed to legally remove &quot;Pitt&quot; from his surname, marking the latest name change within the Jolie-Pitt family.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/441ygw6y/ANI_20260531153030.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Angelina Jolie with son Maddox </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/441ygw6y/ANI_20260531153030.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's eldest son, Maddox, has filed to legally remove "Pitt" from his surname, marking the latest name change within the Jolie-Pitt family.</p><p>According to court documents obtained by E! News on May 29, Maddox Chivan Jolie-Pitt has requested that his name be legally changed to Maddox Chivan Jolie.</p><p>The legal move follows earlier changes in how Maddox has been credited professionally.</p><p>The 24-year-old removed his father's surname from the credits of <em>Couture</em>, the Angelina Jolie-led film on which he worked as an assistant director. His updated name was also included in the production notes distributed to journalists during the film's premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025.</p><p>Maddox is one of the six children of Jolie and Pitt, who split in 2016. Their other children are Pax, 22, Zahara, 21, Shiloh, 20, and 17-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne.</p><p>He is also the latest of the former couple's children to stop using Pitt's surname either officially or in personal and professional settings.</p><p>In 2023, Zahara introduced herself as Zahara Marley Jolie after joining the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority at Spelman University. Earlier this month, she was introduced by the same name while receiving her college diploma.</p><p>Vivienne similarly appeared as Vivienne Jolie in the 2024 Playbill for The Outsiders musical, a production on which she worked alongside her mother.</p><p>Among the siblings, Shiloh made the most formal change before Maddox. Born Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt, she filed on her 18th birthday in May 2024 to legally remove "Pitt" from her surname and adopt the name Shiloh Jolie. The request was approved in August of the same year, as per E! News.</p><p>The latest filing comes against the backdrop of the former couple's long-running legal disputes, although name changes are not unprecedented in the family.</p><p>Jolie, whose birth name is Angelina Jolie Voight, dropped her father Jon Voight's surname early in her career. Pitt's legal name is William Bradley Pitt, though he uses a shortened version professionally.</p><p>Despite some of their children pursuing work in the entertainment industry, Jolie has said they are not eager to embrace celebrity life.</p><p>Speaking at the 2025 Santa Barbara Film Festival, she said, "None of them are dying to be on screen. They're not interested. They really don't like any of the celebrity part of it." </p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/brad-pitt-no-marriage-again-angelina-jolie-children-estrangement">Family fallout leaves marriage off the table for Brad Pitt, report says</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/is-actor-angelina-jolie-done-with-hollywood-for-good">Is actor Angelina Jolie done with Hollywood for good?</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Dua Lipa marries Callum Turner in intimate London ceremony</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-marries-callum-turner-in-intimate-london-ceremony</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/dua-lipa-marries-callum-turner-in-intimate-london-ceremony#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">37f9401c-ba9c-47c7-8438-6aa3425dbd74</guid><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 06:17:04 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-06-01T06:17:04.831Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Global pop star Dua Lipa and actor Callum Turner have officially tied the knot, marrying in an intimate ceremony at Old Marylebone Town Hall in London.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/ww93rqxq/ANI_20260601040553.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Dua Lipa, Callum Turner </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-06-01/ww93rqxq/ANI_20260601040553.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Global pop star Dua Lipa and actor Callum Turner have officially tied the knot, marrying in an intimate ceremony at Old Marylebone Town Hall in London.</p><p>As per Page Six, during the private celebration, the newlyweds were surrounded by friends and family as they exited the venue amid a shower of confetti.</p><p>For the occasion, Lipa wore custom Schiaparelli haute couture, while Turner opted for a navy Ferragamo suit.</p><p>The wedding marks a major milestone in the couple's relationship, which first came into the spotlight in January 2024.</p><p>At the time, Page Six revealed that Lipa and Turner were dating after they were spotted dancing together at the afterparty for Turner's 'Masters of Air' premiere. An insider had then described the pair as being "mad about each other", despite the early stages of their romance.</p><p>Three months later, the couple was photographed during an outing in New York City, further fueling interest in their relationship.</p><p>Lipa later confirmed their engagement in June 2025. The singer also spoke warmly about her engagement ring, revealing that the custom design was created by the 'Fantastic Beasts' actor with input from her best friends and sister.</p><p>Earlier this month, the <em>New Rules</em> singer offered fans a glimpse into what appeared to be her bachelorette celebrations in Ibiza.</p><p>Sharing an Instagram carousel featuring close friends and a suitcase filled with bridal white outfits, Lipa captioned the post: "Funmaxxing is an internet slang term describing the practice of intentionally maximising enjoyment."</p><p>According to reports obtained by Page Six, the couple is also planning a second wedding celebration at the Villa Igiea in Palermo, Italy.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/harry-styles-zoe-kravitz-engagement-rumours-ring-report">Harry Styles, Zoë Kravitz spark engagement rumours as reports claim singer is ‘completely smitten’</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/tech/dua-lipa-sues-samsung-for-15-million-for-allegedly-using-her-image-to-sell-tvs-2">Dua Lipa sues Samsung for $15 million for allegedly using her image to sell TVs</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>&apos;Modern Warfare 4&apos; release date confirmed: Campaign, multiplayer, and Switch 2 details</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/gaming/modern-warfare-4-release-date-confirmed-campaign-multiplayer-and-switch-2-details</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/gaming/modern-warfare-4-release-date-confirmed-campaign-multiplayer-and-switch-2-details#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">25505cc9-5c67-41bf-a473-437b0547de45</guid><pubDate>Sun, 31 May 2026 11:28:49 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-05-31T11:28:49.724Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>Husain Rizvi</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173897</atom:uri></atom:author><description></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="1080" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/p1pcc1ju/MW4-REVEAL-001.webp" width="1920"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/p1pcc1ju/MW4-REVEAL-001.webp?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Gaming</category><category>Tech</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Activision has officially lifted the curtain on Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, the next entry in the blockbuster first-person shooter franchise. Developed by Infinity Ward, the game launches on October 23, 2026, bringing players a globe-spanning campaign, overhauled multiplayer systems, and the return of DMZ.</p><p>This year's story takes the series back to modern geopolitical conflict, centering on a rapidly escalating war on the Korean Peninsula. Players step into the boots of Private Park, a young South Korean soldier caught in the middle of a full-scale North Korean invasion. At the same time, fan-favourite character Captain Price finds himself operating outside official channels as he hunts a dangerous weapon capable of triggering a global catastrophe.</p><a class="cta-anchor" href="https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va5dROu3bbUxk7Jh2503" target="_blank" rel=""><span class="cta-text">Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.</span></a><p>The campaign will take players across multiple international locations, including urban warfare in New York City, high-speed vehicle chases through Paris, SAS operations in Mumbai, and large-scale trench battles in Korea.</p><p>On the multiplayer side, Infinity Ward is introducing Ballistic Authority, a new system designed to deliver what the studio describes as its most realistic gunplay yet. The game launches with 12 core multiplayer maps set in locations around the world.</p><p>One of the biggest additions is Kill Block, a new multiplayer arena that dynamically changes its layout between rounds. According to Activision, the map can reconfigure itself into more than 500 different variations, ensuring matches rarely play out the same way twice.</p><figure><img alt="" src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/k2uzh3di/MW4-REVEAL-005.webp" /></figure><p>Meanwhile, DMZ is making its return as Call of Duty's extraction-based mode. Players can deploy solo or with squads into evolving combat zones where objectives, threats, and opportunities change with every match. More information about DMZ is expected on June 7.</p><p>Modern Warfare 4 is also receiving a renewed focus on PC, with Infinity Ward and Beenox working together to improve performance, responsiveness, graphics settings, and customization options.</p><p>The game launches on October 23 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC, and, for the first time, Nintendo Switch 2. Players who pre-order will receive Open Beta Early Access, the Hunter Killer Operator Skin, and a 10 per cent loyalty discount.</p><p><em>Want to know more about your favourite tech products in the UAE? Check out the links below or click&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/tech" rel="nofollow">here</a></strong>&nbsp;to see Khaleej Times' coverage on technology.</em></p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/gaming/call-of-duty-to-skip-playstation-4-release-for-first-time-since-2013">'Call of Duty' to skip PlayStation 4 release for first time since 2013</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/gaming/marvels-wolverine-pc-release-in-doubt-as-sony-rethinks-strategy">Marvel's 'Wolverine' PC release in doubt as Sony rethinks strategy</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Emilia Clarke shuts down &apos;Game of Thrones&apos; salary rumours</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/emilia-clarke-game-of-thrones-salary-rumours</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/emilia-clarke-game-of-thrones-salary-rumours#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">3be0ef48-6b93-4a20-8598-bd83a0e523d8</guid><pubDate>Sun, 31 May 2026 07:19:55 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-05-31T07:19:55.900Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Actress Emilia Clarke has set the record straight on long-standing rumours surrounding the salaries earned by the cast of the hit fantasy series &apos;Game of Thrones&apos;, calling the reported figures &quot;wildly exaggerated,&quot; according to Page Six. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/hxywrq2l/ANI_20260530081254.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Emilia Clarke Photo</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/hxywrq2l/ANI_20260530081254.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Emilia Clarke has dismissed long-standing rumours about how much the cast of <em>Game of Thrones</em> earned during the show's run, calling the widely reported figures "wildly exaggerated."</p><p>In a recent interview with Variety, Clarke refuted claims that she and several of her co-stars were paid as much as $300,000 per episode.</p><p>"We didn't earn that much," Clarke said, according to Page Six.</p><p>Reacting to the figure, the actress joked, "Can you imagine? I'd have been driving a couple of Porsches!"</p><p>Clarke, who played Daenerys Targaryen throughout the HBO fantasy drama's eight-season run, did not disclose her actual salary but insisted that reports over the years significantly overstated what the cast was paid.</p><p>The actress also declined to comment on separate reports suggesting some of the show's leading stars earned up to $500,000 per episode.</p><p><em>Game of Thrones</em> premiered in 2011 and concluded in 2019 after eight seasons. Alongside Clarke, the series starred Kit Harington, Lena Headey, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau and Sophie Turner.</p><p>The debate over cast salaries gained momentum in 2018 after court documents linked to a legal dispute involving Coster-Waldau reportedly revealed the actor was earning $1.07 million per episode for at least six episodes of the show's final season.</p><p>Clarke has previously spoken about pay parity on the series. During an appearance at the Cannes Film Festival in 2018, she said she had been compensated equally to her male co-stars.</p><p>"It was my first job, and I was not discriminated against because I was a woman, in my paycheck," she said at the time.</p><p>Turner also addressed salary reports in a 2019 interview after claims surfaced that she earned $175,000 per episode. The actress defended Harington's higher pay, saying it reflected the demands of his role.</p><p>"Kit got more money than me, but he had a bigger storyline," Turner said. "And for the last series, he had something crazy like 70 night shoots, and I didn't have that many. I was like, 'You know what, you keep that money.'"</p><p>Elsewhere in the interview, Clarke reflected on the intense fame that accompanied one of television's biggest global successes.</p><p>"You realise it's just a formula: The less you're on TV, the less famous you are," she said. "It comes, and it goes."</p><p>The actress also spoke about the lasting impact of surviving two brain aneurysms while filming <em>Game of Thrones</em>.</p><p>During a recent appearance on the <em>How to Fail</em> podcast, Clarke recalled how the medical emergencies affected her emotionally.</p><p>"It became this thing where I just couldn't look anyone in the eye," she said. "It just cuts you off from the outside world because you're walking around knowing that your body has failed you."</p><p>Clarke suffered the near-fatal brain aneurysms in 2011 and 2013 during the early years of filming the fantasy drama. Despite the health challenges, she went on to complete all eight seasons and became one of the show's most celebrated stars.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/game-of-thrones-7-years-aegon-film-development">'Game of Thrones' returns to big screen with with 'Aegon’s Conquest’ movie</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/house-of-the-dragon-season-3-drops-new-teaser">House of the Dragon season 3 first teaser drops, premiere date finally revealed</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Oscar-winning &apos;Star Wars&apos; editor Marcia Lucas dies at 80</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/marcia-lucas-star-wars-editor-dies-at-80</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/marcia-lucas-star-wars-editor-dies-at-80#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">e89d8bfa-ecd4-494b-ae5a-b1330c07c519</guid><pubDate>Sun, 31 May 2026 06:27:44 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-05-31T06:27:44.496Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Marcia Lucas, the film editor who won an Oscar for editing &apos;Star Wars,&apos; directed by her former husband George Lucas, has passed away. She was 80.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/7vca37qy/ANI_20260530093040.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Star Wars editor died </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/7vca37qy/ANI_20260530093040.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Marcia Lucas, the acclaimed film editor who won an Academy Award for her work on <em>Star Wars</em>, has died at the age of 80.</p><p>The news was confirmed by her family's attorney, Deidre Von Rock, in a statement shared with Variety.</p><p>"Marcia will be remembered as a brilliant storyteller, a trailblazer for women in film, a loving mother and grandmother, a generous host, and a loyal friend whose humor and sparkle filled every room she entered," the statement said.</p><p>"Her influence on film is indelible, but those who knew her best will remember the way she made life feel more vivid, more beautiful, more fun, and more full of love."</p><p>The statement also praised her work as an editor, noting that her films were marked by "emotional intelligence, rhythm, and humanity."</p><p>Lucas, who was sometimes described as George Lucas' "secret weapon," played a key role in shaping some of Hollywood's most celebrated films.</p><p>She co-edited <em>American Graffiti</em>, earning an Oscar nomination, before winning an Academy Award for her editing work on <em>Star Wars</em>. She later worked on <em>Return of the Jedi</em> and collaborated with Martin Scorsese on acclaimed films including <em>Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore</em>, <em>Taxi Driver</em> and <em>New York, New York</em>.</p><p>Throughout her career, Lucas was widely respected for her ability to shape performances and bring emotional depth and clarity to a film through editing.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/documentary-filmmaker-frederick-wiseman-dies-at-96">Frederick Wiseman, Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker, dies at 96</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/alice-doesnt-live-here-anymore-actress-diane-ladd-dies-at-89">'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore' actress Diane Ladd dies at 89</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Emily Blunt says she avoided AI for key scene in Steven Spielberg&apos;s new sci-fi film</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/emily-blunt-avoided-ai-disclosure-day-steven-spielberg</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/emily-blunt-avoided-ai-disclosure-day-steven-spielberg#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">b48b67ae-29ba-4a9e-82be-69898a5277c7</guid><pubDate>Sun, 31 May 2026 05:51:12 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-05-31T05:51:12.424Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Emily Blunt has revealed that she deliberately avoided using artificial intelligence while filming a crucial sequence for Steven Spielberg&apos;s upcoming sci-fi film &apos;Disclosure Day&apos;, saying she is &quot;terrified&quot; of AI.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/l1shby0v/ANI_20260530174024.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Emily Blunt</p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/l1shby0v/ANI_20260530174024.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Emily Blunt has revealed that she deliberately avoided using artificial intelligence while filming a crucial scene in Steven Spielberg's upcoming sci-fi thriller <em>Disclosure Day</em>, saying she is "a bit terrified" of AI.</p><p>The actress recently discussed a pivotal sequence in which her character begins speaking in a non-human language. Blunt plays a Kansas City TV meteorologist who is overtaken by a mysterious extraterrestrial force while broadcasting a weather segment live on air.</p><p>Describing the scene, Blunt said it involved a lengthy continuous take leading up to her character's transformation.</p><p>"It's a four-minute oner that we shot that leads up to that moment where she's gradually sort of disintegrating," she said in an interview, according to Variety.</p><p>Blunt explained that although artificial intelligence could have been used to create the unusual vocal effects, she preferred a more practical approach.</p><p>"There's various ways you could do it. You could go the AI route, which I'm a bit terrified of. I could make some really strange sounds," she said.</p><p>Instead, the actress collaborated directly with the film's sound team, recording a variety of vocal effects that were later developed into the final sound design.</p><p>"I said maybe I could come in, and we'll just do a range of weird sounds. And it's what we did," she said. "I did sort of the clicking sounds, I did sort of humming sounds, consonant sounds, breathing strange sounds."</p><p>According to Blunt, strategically placed microphones captured the sounds before the film's sound designer further developed them.</p><p>"The sound designer went away and created that weird sound," she added.</p><p><em>Disclosure Day</em> is scheduled to arrive in theatres on June 12. The film also stars Josh O'Connor, Colin Firth, Eve Hewson, Colman Domingo, Wyatt Russell, and Henry Lloyd-Hughes.</p><p>The official logline asks: "If you found out we weren't alone, if someone showed you, proved it to you, would that frighten you? This summer, the truth belongs to seven billion people. We are coming close to <em>Disclosure Day</em>."</p><p>The project reunites Spielberg with screenwriter David Koepp, following previous collaborations on <em>Jurassic Park</em>, <em>The Lost World: Jurassic Park</em>, <em>War of the Worlds,</em> and <em>Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull</em>.</p><p>Elsewhere in the interview, Blunt named Spielberg's 1975 thriller <em>Jaws</em> as her favourite film of all time.</p><p>"A lot of people I know watched it when they were kids," she said. "I think if you watch it as an adult, it takes on a whole different form of storytelling."</p><p>She praised Spielberg's ability to balance spectacle with emotional depth, adding, "There are so many beautiful themes that there are in all of Steven's movies. That it's high-stakes action and it's big-scale storytelling. But I think he has this emotional grounding running through all of it in this humanity. So <em>Jaws</em> will be it for me."</p><p>Blunt also recalled the most frightening moment of her acting career, pointing to a stunt sequence in 2018's <em>Mary Poppins Returns</em> that required her to be suspended high above the ground.</p><p>"I was terrified. I did three takes before my tolerance snapped, and I was done," she said.</p><p>Recalling the experience, she added: "And so I just ended up hanging there, waiting for them to call action like that. Like, looking up at the sky where I had no point of reference, but that was the most scared I've been."</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/john-krasinski-a-quiet-place-part-iii-filming-begins">The silence continues as ‘A Quiet Place Part III’ officially starts filming</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/the-summer-i-turned-pretty-set-videos-privacy-warning">'The Summer I Turned Pretty' makers urge fans to respect privacy during film shoot</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Minecraft sequel gets official title, release date confirmed for 2027</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/minecraft-sequel-official-title-release-date-2027</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/minecraft-sequel-official-title-release-date-2027#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">2fd7e4e7-7185-4d45-80ca-0660157b5f8e</guid><pubDate>Sun, 31 May 2026 05:32:03 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-05-31T05:32:03.030Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ The sequel to the blockbuster &apos;Minecraft&apos; film has officially received its title.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="900" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/sicphgvf/ANI_20260530175227.jpg" width="1600"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>‘A Minecraft Movie Squared’ </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-31/sicphgvf/ANI_20260530175227.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The sequel to the blockbuster <em>A Minecraft Movie</em> has officially received its title.</p><p>Warner Bros. and Legendary have announced that the next chapter in the franchise will be called <em>A Minecraft Movie Squared</em>, with production currently underway ahead of its theatrical release on July 23, 2027.</p><p>The announcement follows the strong performance of <em>A Minecraft Movie</em>, the PG-rated adventure starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa that became one of the biggest box office successes of 2025.</p><p>According to Variety, the film opened to a record-breaking $163 million domestically and went on to earn $960 million worldwide.</p><p>Based on the globally popular video game, the original film follows a group of misfits who are pulled through a portal into a cubic world, where they are guided by expert crafter Steve, played by Black.</p><p>The cast also featured Oscar nominee Danielle Brooks, Matt Berry, and Jennifer Coolidge.</p><p>Returning for the sequel is director Jared Hess, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Chris Galletta. Oscar nominee Kirsten Dunst has joined the cast of the upcoming film.</p><p>Warner Bros. and Legendary unveiled the sequel's title treatment on Saturday as part of a new creator-focused contest.</p><p>Participants are invited to design a creation that could be featured in the movie or included in the film's end credits. The winner will also receive the opportunity to attend a private screening of <em>A Minecraft Movie Squared</em> with friends.</p><p>Additional details about the competition are available on Minecraft's official website.</p><p>The producing team includes Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Roy Lee, Eric McLeod, Kayleen Walters, Torfi Frans Olafsson, Jason Momoa and the late Jill Messick. Executive producers are Jay Ashenfelter, Jen Conroy, Brian Mendoza, Jon Berg and Jonathan Spaihts.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/movie-adaptation-call-of-duty-2028-theatrical-release">Movie adaptation of video game 'Call of Duty' eyes a 2028 theatrical release</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/the-super-mario-galaxy-movie-highest-grossing-film-2026">'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' officially becomes the highest-grossing film of 2026</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Aditya Seal, Anushka Ranjan announce pregnancy, set to welcome first child</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/aditya-seal-anushka-ranjan-announce-pregnancy</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/aditya-seal-anushka-ranjan-announce-pregnancy#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">d2ca878d-51a6-4cf1-a313-efd0a018213c</guid><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 11:45:33 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-05-29T11:46:35.074Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Bollywood couple Aditya Seal and Anushka Ranjan are all set to embark on the journey of parenthood. ]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="507" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-29/4kz9a8v9/ANI_20260529113203.jpg" width="901"><media:title type="html"><![CDATA[ <div class="paragraphs"><p>Bollywood couple Aditya Seal and Anushka Ranjan </p></div>]]></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-29/4kz9a8v9/ANI_20260529113203.jpg?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Bollywood couple Aditya Seal and Anushka Ranjan are all set to embark on the journey of parenthood. </p><p>On Friday, Aditya and Anushka shared the good news with their fans and Instagram followers, announcing their first pregnancy. </p><p>"I've waited a hundred years, but I'd wait a million more for you. Nothing prepared me for what the privilege of being yours would do," Aditya's post read. </p><figure><img src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-29/t8eud9mp/ANI_20260529112449.jpg" /></figure><p>The couple also shared adorable pictures from their pregnancy photoshoot. </p><figure><img src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-29/849h4rux/ANI_20260529112455.jpg" /></figure><figure><img src="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-29/a58f3qxx/ANI_20260529112503.jpg" /></figure><p>Aditya and Anushka could be seen twinning in black outfits. Aditya donned a customised T-shirt with "baap (Dad)" written on it. Anushka looked lovely as she flaunted her baby bump. </p><p>As soon as the duo shared the exciting news, fans and members of the film industry chimed in the comment section and conveyed their heartfelt greetings to the parents-to-be. </p><p>"Wow!! Congratulations doston!! Much love," actor Pulkit Samrat commented. </p><p>"So so so happy," actor Bhumi Pednekar wrote. </p><p>Anushka and Aditya tied the knot on November 2, 2021. The duo's wedding ceremony was attended by several celebrities including Alia Bhatt, Vaani Kapoor, and Athiya Shetty, among others. Anushka and Aditya have worked together on the web show <em>Fittrat</em>.</p><p>Aditya has also featured in films like <em>Rocket Gang, Student of the Year 2, Tum Bin 2, Indoo Ki Jawani,</em> and <em>Khel Khel Mein</em>. In the coming months, he will be seen sharing screen space with Sanya Malhotra in <em>Sundar Poonam</em>.</p><p>On the other hand, Anushka was also seen in <em>Wedding Pullav</em> and <em>Batti Gul Meter Chalu.</em></p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-dua-first-musical-show">'It's extra special for us': Ranveer Singh takes daughter Dua to first live musical show</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/mom-to-be-deepika-padukone-returns-to-set">Mum-to-be Deepika Padukone returns to set, director Punit Malhotra shares photo</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title>Rakesh Bedi recalls early casting in &apos;Dhurandhar&apos;, says Aditya Dhar had idea before script</title><link>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/rakesh-bedi-recalls-early-casting-in-dhurandhar</link><comments>https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/rakesh-bedi-recalls-early-casting-in-dhurandhar#comments</comments><guid isPermaLink="false">bf6c9d87-707b-4d5f-befa-5e30b64df052</guid><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 09:31:28 +0000</pubDate><atom:updated>2026-05-29T09:31:28.151Z</atom:updated><atom:author><atom:name>ANI</atom:name><atom:uri>/api/author/2173973</atom:uri></atom:author><description><![CDATA[ Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi opened up about his decades-long acting journey, his approach towards character-building and his memorable role of Jameel Jamali in &apos;Dhurandhar&apos; and &apos;Dhurandhar: The Revenge&apos;.]]></description><media:keywords></media:keywords><media:content height="667" medium="image" url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-29/ckvzhega/RakeshBedi1200.avif" width="1200"><media:title type="html"></media:title><media:description type="html"></media:description></media:content><media:thumbnail url="https://imgengine.khaleejtimes.com/khaleejtimes-english/2026-05-29/ckvzhega/RakeshBedi1200.avif?w=280" width="280"></media:thumbnail><category>Entertainment</category><content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi opened up about his decades-long acting journey, his approach towards character-building and his memorable role of Jameel Jamali in <em>Dhurandhar</em> and <em>Dhurandhar: The Revenge.</em></p><p>Speaking about his career and evolution as an actor in an interview with <em>ANI</em>, Bedi said he has never been obsessed with reaching the "peak" of success and instead believes in enjoying the journey.</p><p>"I believe that this is a journey and we should enjoy the journey. I have never thought that I would reach the peak or that I have to reach the peak. I feel that this journey is going very well," Bedi said. </p><p>The actor added that his priority has always been commitment to work rather than chasing success or outcomes.</p><p>"I do my work well, I do my work with full commitment. And sometimes I get good results and sometimes I don't get good results. So what can I do?" he said.</p><p>Known for his iconic comic roles in films such as <em>Chashme Buddoor </em>and <em>Tirangaa</em>, Bedi has also been part of popular television shows like <em>Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi, Shrimaan Shrimati, Yes Boss</em>, <em>Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hain</em> and <em>Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.</em></p><p>Talking about working in <em>Dhurandhar,</em> Bedi revealed that filmmaker Aditya Dhar had considered casting him in the project years before the script was even finalised.</p><p>"I believe, and Aditya Dhar has said this too, that I was the first person to get cast in Dhurandhar. They had cast me 3-4 years ago when they had made <em>Uri</em>. At that time, they didn't have a script. But they had an idea, and according to that idea, they had thought of me for a role in that film," he shared.</p><p>Calling it a "big compliment," Bedi said Dhar's early confidence in him was a reflection of his long-standing work in the industry.</p><p>Directed by Aditya Dhar and backed by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, the film features a strong cast including Ranveer Singh, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun. The music by Shashwat Sachdev has also received a strong response on digital platforms.</p><p>Bedi further explained his acting method, saying he often draws inspiration from real-life people while building characters.</p><p>"I always try to pick up the character from real life. Then I put my salt and pepper on the screen," he said while recalling his performances in projects like <em>Tirangaa</em> and <em>Dhurandhar</em>.</p><p>Bedi added that he constantly experiments with his performances and attempts to add layers that may not have originally been imagined during the writing process.</p><p>"My work is that I try to put the character that the director or writer could not put. Writing is always in closed rooms. But shooting is open. So when we shoot there, the atmosphere changes," he said.</p><p>Reflecting on the popularity of his character, Jameel Jamali, Bedi said audiences continue to remember the role because of the detailing and collective effort put into the performance.</p><p>"No one will be able to forget Jameel Jamali. People are watching it again and again. Someone has watched it twice, someone six times, people have watched it 8-10 times," he said.</p><p>Opening up about his acting philosophy, the actor said he always prioritises the character over his own image as an actor.</p><p>"In all the roles I have played, I have tried not to show you, Rakesh Bedi. You should see that character," he said.</p><p>Bedi also spoke about his long association with theatre, revealing that he continues to perform on stage regularly even after five decades in the industry.</p><p>"I do theatre constantly. I can say with confidence that there are only 2-4 actors like me in Mumbai who have stepped on the stage at least once every month for 50 years," he said.</p><p>The actor further shared that theatre keeps his creativity and reflexes alive, helping him grow continuously as a performer.</p><p>"When you keep working, you keep growing. That experience keeps seeping into you. It comes out in some form or the other," he added.</p><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/bollywood-actor-bhumi-pednekar-on-daldal-imposter-syndrome">Exclusive: Bhumi Pednekar on 'Daldal', imposter syndrome and why she’s done being hard on herself</a></aside><aside><a href="https://www.khaleejtimes.com/entertainment/border-2-star-ahan-shetty-opens-up-on-patriotism-and-carrying-forward-dad-suniel-shettys-legacy">'Border 2' star Ahan Shetty opens up on patriotism and carrying forward dad Suniel Shetty’s legacy</a></aside>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>