Comedian and actor Rob Schneider has revealed plans for a new women’s talk show, which he promises will be the “opposite” of ABC’s long-running The View. Speaking during an appearance on Fox News @ Night, Schneider detailed his vision for a show that is more focused on entertainment and humour rather than politics.
The Hot Chick star explained that his company, No Apologies Media, will produce the programme. “It won’t be like The View,” he said. “It will be the opposite because this will be entertaining. It’ll be funny
When asked whether the show would compete directly with The View, Schneider confirmed: “We’re going to compete with them, yeah. I don’t know if it’s the same time slot. We’re not going to announce who’s doing it yet, but that’s what’s happening now. And it’s official. So now we’re moving ahead.”
Schneider added that filming for the new show will begin next month, with the aim of producing episodes ahead of the upcoming US presidential inauguration.
While remaining tight-lipped about the potential hosts, Schneider teased that his team is considering “a lot of women we like,” claiming they are “household names.” He assured viewers that the show will be “funny,” steering clear of divisive political discussions. “It’s not going to be shaming people and making people wince,” he said.
Later in the interview, Schneider criticised The View, describing it as unengaging and overly political. “It’s as interesting as a Hunter Biden painting made of his own faeces,” he remarked after watching a clip of the ABC show. “They’re just sniping and trying to make people feel terrible. And people are sick of it.”
He further elaborated: “We’re going to have an entertaining show for entertaining people all over America. We’re not trying to just bring people who are angry and bitter and reinforcing their political echo chamber. That’s what you and I do here!”
The View’s popularity
The View Image: Youtube
Despite Schneider’s criticisms, The View continues to thrive as a leading daytime talk show. Now on season 28, the programme has ranked highest in total viewership among daytime broadcast talk shows and news programmes for five consecutive years. The show recently saw a significant boost in viewership following Donald Trump’s reelection.
Schneider’s project will aim to carve out its own audience by offering a light-hearted and humorous alternative. Whether it can rival the success of The View remains to be seen.
On 9 December, Selena Gomez, star of Emilia Perez, celebrated a career milestone with a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The accolade, which Gomez described as “overwhelming” and left her “very, very honoured and grateful,” is a testament to her growth as an actor. Just a day later, she attended the Academy Women’s Luncheon, presented by Chanel, alongside a host of Hollywood stars, including Ariana Grande.
In her keynote address, Gomez touched on the challenges of navigating the entertainment industry. “I know first hand how isolating this industry will feel at times,” she shared. “But moments like this and rooms like this, and talking to all these amazing women just reminds me that I’m not alone, and we aren’t alone.” Among those seated at her table were Grande, Amy Adams, Pamela Anderson, Awkwafina, Gal Gadot, Rita Wilson, Mila Kunis, and Olivia Wilde—an inspiring assembly of accomplished women.
While speaking with People magazine, Gomez reflected on how humour serves as a coping mechanism in the face of negativity. “It’s humour for me,” she explained. “I know people say it’s a defence mechanism, however, I think it’s a great distraction from all of the noise sometimes. And just to have a laugh with your friends or do something that can bring you a little bit of light.”
She also recalled the strong bond she shared with her Emilia Perez co-stars, Zoe Saldaña and Karla Sofia Gascon, crediting their camaraderie for helping her navigate the film’s emotionally demanding scenes.
For others feeling isolated in Hollywood, Gomez offered a heartfelt message of support. “To the young women watching us, I just want you to know that you are heard and you are seen, and your perspective matters deeply. And if you ever feel lonely at any event, I’m usually on my phone, playing some sort of weird game. Just come up to me, and I’ll be happy to chat.”
She added, “When we share and we stand together, we create a ripple effect that stretches far beyond our own lives. That’s why events like [this] are so important, they’re a celebration of our collective achievements, but they’re also a reminder of the work we still have to do.”
Gomez and Grande at the Luncheon Image: Youtube
Gomez also revealed that Ariana Grande was one of the first to congratulate her on her Golden Globe nomination. “Ariana texted me and it was the sweetest note and it was about six in the morning,” Gomez shared with Variety.
The duo’s bond was evident on social media, where Gomez posted a photo with Grande on her Instagram story, captioning it “An angel on Earth.” Grande reshared the post, replying, “That’s you,” in a heartwarming exchange.
With her thoughtful reflections and uplifting words, Selena Gomez continues to inspire her peers and fans alike.
ITV has announced the acquisition of The Assembly, a unique entertainment series originally piloted on the BBC. Adapted from the acclaimed French series Les Rencontres du Papotin, the show promises to be a bold addition to ITV’s 2025 line up, blending heart warming authenticity with unpredictable, unscripted moments.
The programme’s premise is unlike any other: a panel of neurodivergent, autistic, and learning-disabled individuals interviews celebrities in a format free from scripts or pre-approved questions. This candid approach results in deeply personal, often humorous exchanges that are as touching as they are unpredictable.
From BBC pilot to full ITV series
The Assembly first aired as a BBC pilot, featuring actor Michael Sheen as its guest. The pilot garnered widespread critical acclaim, with Chitra Ramaswamy of The Guardian describing it as “a breath of fresh air.” Reflecting on his experience, Sheen shared: “The Assembly’s had more response than anything I’ve ever done.”
Now, ITV has committed to a four-episode series, expanding the format’s reach to a broader audience. Katie Rawcliffe, ITV’s Director of Entertainment and Daytime, praised the acquisition, saying: “The Assembly is such a distinct, clever, and authentic format, and one that we’re absolutely thrilled to commission for a full first series for ITV1 and ITVX. I can’t wait for The Assembly interviewers to ask our brilliant cast of celebrities a plethora of burning questions, which will no doubt make for must-watch TV.”
The show represents ITV’s ongoing efforts to champion inclusivity and diversify its entertainment slate. Produced by Rockerdale Studios, the series has collaborated with local and national neurodivergent organisations to ensure authenticity at every stage of production.
Michelle Singer and Stu Richards from Rockerdale Studios shared their enthusiasm, stating: “This show will be funny and naughty and warm and smart, and, bloody hell, we’ve got ourselves all worked up now… we just cannot wait to make it.”
A proven formula
The original French version of The Assembly has featured high-profile guests such as Killing Eve star Camille Cottin and French President Emmanuel Macron, who memorably faced a cheeky question about whether it’s appropriate to marry your teacher. The UK adaptation will aim to retain this playful, no-holds-barred atmosphere, while tailoring the content to British audiences.
The celebrity lineup for ITV’s series remains under wraps, but with its bold format and premise, The Assembly is set to be a highlight of ITV’s upcoming schedule.
Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia has etched her name into history as the first Indian woman to be nominated for Best Director at the Golden Globe Awards. Her film, All We Imagine As Light, also earned a nomination for Best Motion Picture in a Non-English Language, marking a monumental moment for Indian cinema on the global stage.
Kapadia’s achievement is not just a personal triumph—it represents a turning point for women filmmakers, particularly those from India, as they rise to prominence in an industry long dominated by male voices. Joining the ranks of global trailblazers like Chloé Zhao and Greta Gerwig, Kapadia’s success underscores the increasing recognition of diverse storytelling in international cinema.
All We Imagine As Light, a Hindi-Malayalam drama, is a poignant exploration of the intertwined lives of three women in Mumbai as they navigate isolation, adversity, and the universal need for connection. Set against the vibrant yet unforgiving backdrop of the bustling metropolis, the film captures themes of resilience and hope through Kapadia’s poetic and visually arresting storytelling.
Since its release in UK and Irish cinemas on 29 November, the film has garnered widespread acclaim for its bold narrative and artistic vision. Critics have hailed Kapadia as one of the most exciting contemporary directors, and her nominations come on the heels of her Grand Prix win at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.
Reflecting on the Golden Globe recognition, Kapadia said, “This recognition is truly humbling. I am grateful to the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for this honour, and I dedicate it to the incredible team who made this film possible.”
Kapadia’s nomination also spotlights the broader achievements of women directors in reshaping global cinema. While Bollywood continues to witness the rise of female directors like Zoya Akhtar and Meghna Gulzar and Kiran Rao, Kapadia’s success amplifies the need for greater representation, especially in regional and independent cinema.
Her nomination is not just a celebration of her artistry but a beacon of hope for emerging female filmmakers. It highlights the industry’s evolving appetite for diverse and underrepresented voices, signalling a promising future for Indian women directors and their stories.
On Friday, 20 December, Blake Lively filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against her It Ends With Us co-star, Justin Baldoni, accusing him of engaging in inappropriate behaviour on set and initiating a smear campaign to damage her reputation. The actress claims Baldoni made unconsented physical contact and made invasive comments about her personal life. Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that Baldoni and his PR team orchestrated a campaign to plant negative stories about Lively.
The actress has received significant support following the filing, including from It Ends With Us author Colleen Hoover, director Paul Feig, comedian Amy Schumer, and several of her friends and co-stars, such as America Ferrera, Amber Tamblyn, and Alexis Bledel. The wave of support has now extended internationally, with Bollywood actress and MP Kangana Ranaut voicing her concerns over the matter.
Kangana via Instagram
Taking to Instagram, Ranaut described the allegations as “worrying” and “shameful.” She drew comparisons between Hollywood and Bollywood, referencing the Hema Committee report, which highlighted the challenges faced by women in the Malayalam film industry. Ranaut pointed out that in both industries, women who refuse to compromise are often subjected to character assassination, with their careers negatively impacted.
The lawsuit further details the emotional distress Lively allegedly suffered on set, including an incident where Baldoni became upset after seeing paparazzi photos of Lively in character, leading her to retreat to her dressing room in tears over social media comments about her appearance. The filing claims Baldoni frequently criticised Lively’s age and weight, belittling her in front of others. As tensions escalated, an emergency meeting involving Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, Baldoni, and executives from Sony Pictures Entertainment and Wayfarer Studios was reportedly held to address the issues threatening the film’s production.
Justin Baldoni’s team has denied the allegations, labelling them as false and a desperate attempt by Lively to restore her reputation. They argue that the accusations stem from Lively’s own remarks and actions during the film’s promotional campaign, which reportedly led to negative public perception.
As the lawsuit unfolds, many are watching closely to see how it will affect both Lively and Baldoni’s careers, as well as the ongoing production of It Ends With Us.
Legendary Indian actor Anil Kapoor celebrated his 68 year birthday today by treating fans to an exclusive sneak peek of his upcoming film, Subedaar. The teaser clip, shared on Kapoor’s Instagram, showcases him as Subedaar Arjun Maurya, a man who once fought for his nation and now faces a new battle closer to home—to protect his family from dangerous enemies.
Set against a gripping theme track, the clip reveals a tense standoff as the protagonist gears up to confront adversaries who have arrived at his house. With its powerful visuals and intense build-up, the teaser has left fans eagerly anticipating the full trailer.
Filming for Subedaar recently wrapped up on an outdoor schedule, and the final leg of production is set to begin in January. Directed by Suresh Triveni and written by Triveni alongside Prajwal Chandrashekar, the film also stars Radhika Madan as Kapoor’s on-screen daughter. It is produced by Opening Image Films and Anil Kapoor Film & Communication Network.
Speaking about the film, Kapoor said:
“Subedaar is special. It’s much more than just an action film; it’s about resilience, honour, family, and the relentless fight we face in life. I could not have asked for a better director than Suresh to captain this film. Revealing this first glimpse of Subedaar Arjun Maurya on my birthday is my gift to the fans who have supported me all these years.”
Fans have already begun flooding the comments section with excitement and speculation. One fan wrote, “This scene looks like it’s straight out of Jailer! Another commented, “Need a full trailer ASAP.” Others expressed high hopes for the film, with one user stating, “This one must be lit!”
With its themes of honour and resilience combined with action-packed sequences, Subedaar promises to be much more than a typical action film. Kapoor’s powerful performance and the gripping storyline have already set high expectations for the Prime Video release.
Pushpa 2 has been engulfed in controversy following a tragic stampede incident at its pre-release event in Hyderabad, which claimed the life of a woman named Revathi and left her young son critically injured. Amid allegations against actor Allu Arjun—denied by the actor during a press meet—producer Naveen Yerneni of Mythri Movie Makers has extended financial assistance to the victim’s family.
On Monday, Yerneni addressed the media and handed over a cheque of ₹50 lakh (approximately £49,000) to Revathi’s family members. A video of the gesture, shared by trade analyst Manobala Vijayabalan on X (formerly Twitter), captured the emotional moment.
Speaking about the incident, Yerneni said:
“It’s very unfortunate what happened. We’ve felt bad about it since it occurred, but we couldn’t express our feelings adequately. Revathi’s death is a huge loss to her family. Doctors are doing their best to help the boy recover. We want to support the family in this difficult time.”
Tensions further escalated on Sunday when Allu Arjun’s Hyderabad residence was vandalised by individuals claiming to belong to the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Osmania University students. The actor’s father, Allu Aravind, addressed the press, saying:
“The police have apprehended the offenders and filed a case against them. Authorities are ready to take action against anyone who comes here to create a ruckus. Incidents like these should not be encouraged.”
The tragic event unfolded on 4 December, when Allu Arjun visited Sandhya Theatre in Hyderabad with his family and co-star Rashmika Mandanna. The visit caused a stampede-like situation, leading to the woman’s death and her son’s hospitalisation. Arjun was arrested in connection with the case on December 13 and released on interim bail the following day.
The incident has cast a shadow over Pushpa 2, a highly anticipated sequel in the Pushpa franchise. The controversy has sparked debates on crowd control and event safety in the entertainment industry. While legal proceedings and investigations continue, the donation by the producers is seen as a step towards providing some relief to the grieving family.
It’s been over a decade since Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (YJHD) graced theatres, and its legacy as a beloved film remains intact. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the 2013 classic starring Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Kalki Koechlin, and Aditya Roy Kapur captured hearts with its heartfelt performances, memorable dialogues, and evergreen songs. In 2024, the film was re-released in theatres, much to the delight of fans.
But now, fans are abuzz with speculation about a potential sequel after a cryptic post by Dharma Productions. On 23 December, the production house shared a still from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani on Instagram with the caption, “Humein inse pyaar ho jaayega… phir se! #StayTuned.” This teaser immediately set the internet on fire, with fans wondering if it hinted at the making of a sequel.
The comments section was flooded with reactions, with many expressing excitement at the possibility of revisiting the world of Bunny and Naina. One fan wrote, “If you’re thinking of a sequel, please keep the same cast.” Another chimed in, “Waiting for YJHD2!” and “I would be so happy to see a sequel!”
However, not everyone was on board with the idea. Some fans expressed concerns, worried that a sequel might tarnish the original’s charm. One commented, “Please don’t ruin it; it’s my comfort movie.” Another added, “Nooo, you cannot do this. Please, please, please don’t!”
As of now, it remains unclear whether this teaser is indeed a hint at Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani 2 or simply a marketing campaign for another project. Fans are left eagerly awaiting an official confirmation from Dharma Productions.
Meanwhile, it’s worth noting that YJHD marked the second on-screen collaboration of Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, following their real-life breakup. Their chemistry lit up the screens again in 2015’s Tamasha, and the possibility of seeing them together once more in a sequel has only added to the anticipation.
For now, the future of Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani 2 remains a mystery, but the internet’s excitement has undoubtedly reignited the love for this timeless classic.
Spoiler Alert: This review discusses significant plot points and reveals from the documentary.
***/*****
Cast: Yo Yo Honey Singh, Salman Khan (Guest appearance)
Director: Mozez Singh
Platform: Available on Netflix now
Chasing dreams amidst the heights of unprecedented fame, yet battling personal demons and unrelenting media trials, Yo Yo Honey Singh’s life offers a deeply engrossing story for a documentary.
The 80-minute Netflix feature, Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous, produced by Sikhya Entertainment and directed by Mozez Singh, captures the whirlwind journey of the rapper and music producer with the flair, drama, and emotional depth of a cinematic spectacle, but, while the documentary capitalises on the sheer richness of Singh’s life story, it occasionally misses opportunities for deeper exploration, especially when tackling his most contentious moments.
Honey singh in a still from the documentary
From his humble beginnings as an underground music producer, fuelled by a desire to escape the monotony of middle-class frugality, to his meteoric rise and tumultuous fall, the film captures the two-decade journey of a man navigating fame’s punishing highs and lows. The opening scene sets the tone with an intimate glimpse into Singh’s youth, showing him in casual conversation with his family. Later, he revisits a neighbourhood dhaba, nostalgically recalling how he used to arrive first on foot, then by cycle, later on a scooter, and finally in his car—an evocative metaphor for his rise to fame.
With unfiltered access to Singh’s family, friends, and collaborators, the documentary endeavours to unravel the mind and music of the West Delhi lad who became a global sensation. Deepa Bhatia’s editing lends the narrative a frenetic energy, mirroring the topsy-turvy trajectory of Singh’s life. However, the film falters when addressing the darker, more controversial aspects of his career, often skating over issues that demand more profound interrogation.
Singh’s controversies take centre stage at key moments, but the treatment is uneven. For instance, the documentary touches on the backlash his music received following the 2012 Nirbhaya incident, with critics accusing him of perpetuating misogyny. In interviews, Singh dismisses responsibility for the lyrics, claiming he didn’t write them, and shrugs off the idea of regret, citing audience preference for his style. Such deflections leave a void where introspection or accountability might have offered richer insight. Similarly, the legal restrictions surrounding his divorce and domestic violence allegations render those revelations limited to public knowledge, teasing depth but ultimately retreating.
Yet, the film doesn’t shy away from exposing Singh’s struggles with bipolar disorder and the impact of his breakdown during the infamous 2014 SLAM tour, where he withdrew midway through. His candour about the seven-year hiatus that followed, marked by mental health battles and shifting industry landscapes, offers glimpses of vulnerability and resilience. These raw moments stand out, such as when Singh reflects on the allure of death during his darkest times or shares his apprehensions about his “comeback.”
However, the film’s authenticity stumbles in subtle but telling ways. Singh’s real name, Hirdesh Singh, is conspicuously absent, reducing his story to the persona of Yo Yo Honey Singh. The narrative, while vibrant, leans heavily on his triumphant return to the mainstream, often glossing over the self-adulation that complicates his legacy.
Honey Singh’s family (Dad, sister, mom from left to right, respectively), in a still from the documentary
The documentary’s most poignant scenes, however, are where it allows viewers to be unobtrusive observers: witnessing the unconditional love of his family, the vulnerable look on Singh’s face when critiquing a lacklustre Bollywood track, and the unfiltered emotion as he describes his mental health struggles. “I went to hell and back,” he says, recounting the debilitating effects of bipolar disorder with harrowing detail. These moments are as enlightening as they are disconcerting, showing the human side of an artist often hidden behind his star persona.
The whirlwind pace of Singh’s life is reflected in the film’s high-energy momentum, echoing the relentless demands of his career—three to four shows a day, minimal breaks, and the unyielding pressure of fame. Yet, amid the chaos, themes of family, fame, and identity emerge with clarity.
The documentary concludes with Singh expressing his drive to continue creating for the fans who never forgot him, despite his absence from the limelight. Yet, his ambition of working alongside Dr Dre—an artist similarly accused of violence against women—raises questions about the inclusivity of his “comeback.” Does his dedication to his fans extend beyond his male audience, or is it reflective of a narrow perspective shaped by the very controversies the film skirts around?
Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous is as dizzying as it is entertaining, a sensory overload that mirrors the artist’s tumultuous life. While it doesn’t answer every question it raises, it offers a compelling, albeit imperfect, look at a man whose journey is as controversial as it is extraordinary.
In a deeply personal essay for The Cut, clinical psychologist Lilly Jay has opened up about the emotional aftermath of her divorce from Broadway actor Ethan Slater. Without naming names, Jay alluded to Slater’s relationship with his Wicked co-star Ariana Grande and detailed the challenges of navigating motherhood and divorce under public scrutiny.
Jay, who specialises in perinatal mental health and child development, shared poignant insights into her life as a mother to her and Slater’s two-year-old son. “Motherhood, I have learned, fills your time but not your mind,” she wrote, reflecting on how she has worked to come to terms with the abrupt end of her marriage while caring for her child.
“In the countless hours I spend rocking my son to sleep, pushing his stroller, marvelling at his sweaty little hands grasping a crayon, I work diligently on my private project of accepting the sudden public downfall of my marriage,” Jay explained. Despite the pain, she has found a glimmer of hope. “Slowly but surely, I have come to believe that in the absence of the life I planned with my high-school sweetheart, a lifetime of sweetness is waiting for me and my child.”
Navigating Divorce in the Spotlight
Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater via Instagram
Slater, 32, and Grande, 31, began dating earlier this year following his separation from Jay and her split from Dalton Gomez. Slater and Jay’s divorce was finalised in September, marking the end of a 12-year relationship and a nearly six-year marriage. The couple’s son was born in August 2022, just months before their separation.
Reflecting on the unexpected end of her marriage, Jayadmitted, “No one gets married thinking they’ll get divorced, in the same way we don’t board a plane expecting to crash. But I really never thought I would get divorced. Especially not just after giving birth to my first child and especially not in the shadow of my husband’s new relationship with a celebrity.”
Lilly Jay with Ethan Slater Image: Youtube
She also described her struggle to adjust to the loss of the privacy she once cherished in her professional and personal life. “In this season of shock and mourning, over a year after the end of my marriage was made public, I deeply miss the life of invisibility I created for myself as a psychologist specialising in women’s mental health,” she wrote.
Jay recounted how people from her past had reached out after seeing her name in the tabloids, while her patients remained silent. She admitted that the publicity she never consented to has posed challenges but has also offered an opportunity for connection. “If I’m discovered—as what, being vulnerable?—perhaps it could be a point of connection rather than a clinical liability,” she wrote.
Jay also reflected on her battle with postpartum depression, which she feared “would destroy” her. However, she insisted that she is “okay” and ready to embrace her newfound visibility. “If I can’t be invisible anymore, I may as well introduce myself,” she wrote. Using a metaphor, she added, “You know how a sponge is most effective at absorbing liquid when it’s already a bit wet? Maybe we can think about my messy not-so-personal life in that way: a dose of my own loss, rage, powerlessness, sadness that helps me hold yours.”
Co-Parenting with Ethan Slater
Despite the dramatic changes in their relationship, Jay expressed gratitude for their shared commitment to co-parenting. “While our partnership has changed, our parenthood has not. Both of us fiercely love our son 100 percent of the time, regardless of how our parenting time is divided,” she wrote.
Jay’s essay offers an honest and heartfelt perspective on loss, resilience, and finding strength amidst public and personal challenges.
