/news/entertainment/rss 九一星空无限 Keep up with the latest gossip, celebrity, and entertainment news with 九一星空无限talk ZB. Thu, 30 Jan 2025 23:07:24 Z en /news/entertainment/singer-marianne-faithfull-dies-at-78/ /news/entertainment/singer-marianne-faithfull-dies-at-78/ British singer and actress Marianne Faithfull has died at the age of 78.  The 1960s icon and Rolling Stones muse achieved popularity following the release of her hit song As Tears Go By, which peaked at No.9 on the UK singles chart. She went on to star in films such as 1968’s The Girl on a Motorcycle, 1969’s Hamlet, 1995’s Moondance, and 2006’s Marie Antoinette.  “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of the singer, songwriter and actress Marianne Faithfull,” a spokesperson said in a statement on Friday (NZ time).  “Marianne passed away peacefully in London today, in the company of her loving family.  “She will be dearly missed.”  Marianne Faithfull attending the wedding of singer Gene Pitney on January 28, 1967. Photo / Getty Images  Faithfull famously dated Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger from 1966 to 1970, with the two becoming an “it” couple of London’s swinging 60s. The pair, who suffered a miscarriage in 1968, had a notoriously turbulent relationship, with Faithfull believed to have inspired the iconic Rolling Stones’ tracks Wild Horses and You Can’t Always Get What You Want.  Her 1964 hit As Tears Go By marked the first song ever written by Jagger and Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, while her eponymous debut album in 1965 and 1966’s North Country Maid propelled her popularity in the United States — making her a central figure of the “British Invasion”.  Her 1979 album Broken English received critical acclaim and earned Faithfull her first and only Grammy nomination for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.  Mick Jagger and Marianne Faithfull attended court on May 29, 1969 to face charges of marijuana possession. The couple, arrested during a police raid on Jagger's apartment, were released on a $120 bond. Photo / Getty Images  The singer-songwriter suffered health issues throughout her career. She battled heroin addiction and eating disorders in the 1970s, and in 2004 was hospitalised for exhaustion after collapsing on stage in Italy.  In 2006, Faithfull announced she had been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, forcing the postponement of a US and European tour. Less than two months after revealing her diagnosis, Faithfull said she had made a full recovery.  In April 2020, it was reported Faithfull had been admitted to a London hospital after testing positive for Covid-19. She also suffered from emphysema after decades of smoking.  She released seven studio albums post-2000, the last of which were 2018’s Negative Capability and her final project, She Walks in Beauty, in 2021: one year after her battle with Covid-19. In 2009, Faithfull was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Women’s World Awards, and in 2011 she was made a commandeur of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by France.  The singer married and divorced three times. She wed artist and the father of her child, John Dunbar, in 1965, followed by Ben Brierly of punk band the Vibrators in 1979. Her last marriage was to actor Giorgio Della Terza from 1988 to 1991.  Faithfull is survived by her son Nicholas Dunbar, 59, and three grandchildren.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Rolling Stones (@therollingstones) Jagger ‘saddened’ by death of ‘wonderful friend’  The Rolling Stones led tributes to Faithfull following the news of her death, with Jagger, her former partner, taking to social media to share his devastation.  “I am so saddened to hear of the death of Marianne Faithfull. She was so much part of my life for so long,” the 81-year-old said in a statement, alongside a carousel of photos.  “She was a wonderful friend, a beautiful singer and a great actress. She will always be remembered.”  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mick Jagger (@mickjagger) Guitarist Keith Richards also penned a short tribute on Instagram, writing: “My heartfelt condolences to Marianne’s family! I am so sad and will miss her! Love, Keith.”  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Keith Richards (@officialkeef) Fellow Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood also acknowledged Faithfull’s death with two posts to his Instagram feed, captioned, “Farewell dear Marianne” and “Marianne will be dearly missed. Bless her.”  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ronnie Wood (@ronniewood) Thu, 30 Jan 2025 22:15:43 Z /news/entertainment/drake-reschedules-auckland-shows-fans-scramble-to-change-flights-accommodation/ /news/entertainment/drake-reschedules-auckland-shows-fans-scramble-to-change-flights-accommodation/ Drake has landed himself in hot water after the five-time Grammy Award winner rescheduled his two New Zealand shows one month out from their original dates, sparking panic among fans both at home and abroad.  Announcing his Anita Max Win tour of Australia and New Zealand in November last year, the Hotline Bling singer revealed he’d return to Aotearoa after an eight-year absence for back-to-back shows at Auckland’s Spark Arena.  Drake had originally scheduled to play in the City of Sails on Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1, after he wrapped up his Australia shows in Brisbane.  However, fans gearing up for next month’s events were notified by Ticketmaster on Wednesday that the original dates had been changed because of “scheduling conflicts”.  The revised dates for his Auckland shows are now Saturday, March 15 and Sunday, March 16.  It is not known why Drake postponed the shows by two weeks, but two more shows in Australia were recently added on March 4 (Brisbane) and March 7 (Sydney).  Drake fans received an email on Wednesday notifying them of the postponement of the rapper's two Auckland shows. photo / @certifiedloveral  Fans expressed their dismay on social media after Ticketmaster emailed to inform them of the changes, with dozens flocking to Facebook ticket resale groups to try to sell or swap their tickets immediately after the announcement.  A Reddit user shared the new dates in a forum and questioned why “artists always pull this s***” when visiting New Zealand.  “Sounds familiar doesn’t it,” one person replied.  “Convinced I jinxed this happening,” wrote a TikTok user from the United States who was planning to fly into the country for one of the shows. “Such an L.”  Another fan travelling from the US to see Drake asked others to “pray” for them as they attempted to change their itinerary.  “I was flying from California to see this show. Now I’m on hold with my travel agency hoping I can move my dates around,” they wrote on Reddit.  @the.pop.cult KIWI DRAKE FANS: Drakes two NZ shows have been rescheduled from Feb 28 and March 1 to March 15 and 16 due to “scheduling conflicts” ‼️ give me your thoughts on this below 😬 #drake #draketour #drakenz #newzealand #anitamaxwynn ♬ Champagne Poetry - Drake Others weren’t so convinced that the move was a big deal.  “So he gave you over a month to accommodate yourselves ... this isn’t a last-minute thing,” a Reddit user said.  The God’s Plan rapper last graced New Zealand shores in November 2017 when he held two sold-out concerts at the same waterfront arena as part of his Boy Meets World tour.  Drake isn’t the first artist to have been called out by Kiwi fans for the disruption made and costs accrued from rescheduling shows, but his move highlights a trend led by international artists that is becoming a regular occurrence within Aotearoa’s events industry.  Travis Scott faced backlash in October last year after he moved his Eden Park concert forward by one day and significantly dropped ticket prices, while earlier that year, Blink-182 cancelled their performance in Christchurch just two weeks before the concert was set to take place.  RNZ recently reported on the growing number of concerts and festivals that have been cancelled or postponed in New Zealand, providing an overview of the rights consumers have in such situations.  US rapper Travis Scott faced backlash in October last year after he moved his Eden Park show forward by one day. Photo / Getty Images  Ticketholders are immediately entitled to a refund if faced with a cancellation or change to an event. However, whether they’re able to claim money back for expenses such as travel and accommodation depends on how culpable the seller is deemed to be within the Consumer Guarantees Act.  “If they’ve breached one of the guarantees, you may be entitled to claim for any reasonably foreseeable consequential losses. If not, a seller probably isn’t required to compensate you for other costs like accommodation or airfares,” ticket holders are advised on Consumer NZ’s website.  Fans who cannot make it to Drake’s shows in Auckland on their new dates are advised to request refunds through Ticketmaster by 5pm on February 11.  Wed, 29 Jan 2025 22:55:04 Z /news/entertainment/toto-to-play-three-shows-in-nz-as-part-of-global-dogz-of-oz-tour/ /news/entertainment/toto-to-play-three-shows-in-nz-as-part-of-global-dogz-of-oz-tour/ Hold The Line, New Zealand – one of the most iconic bands of the 70s are heading to Aotearoa this year.  Toto are bringing their Dogz of Oz 2025 tour here in April, along with special guest Christopher Cross.  Starting with a show in Auckland at Spark Arena on Wednesday, April 23, Toto will then head to Wellington’s TSB Arena on Thursday, April 24. The New Zealand leg of the tour wraps up in Christchurch on Saturday, April 26.  The band is made up of Steve Lukathe (guitar/vocals), Joseph Williams (vocals) Greg Phillinganes (keyboards/vocals), Shannon Forrest (drums), John Pierce (bass), Warren Ham (horns/percussion/vocals) and Dennis Atlas (keyboards/vocals).  Toto, whose 1982 song Africa has been certified Diamond for the sale of 10 million copies in the US, last performed in New Zealand in 2019.  Christopher Cross is joining Toto on their New Zealand tour this April. Photo / Live Nation NZ  The song, which has become synonymous with the group, has been streamed 2 billion times on Spotify, while their hit Hold the Line has a billion plays on the streaming platform.  Lukather said he is “thrilled” to be bringing the tour to New Zealand.  “Christopher has been a close friend of mine for a long time,” he said of Cross.  “This is a tour that works musically, from an idea that germinated months ago that was able to take flight and become a reality. I could not be more thrilled.”  Toto and Cross performed together in September last year at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, and will tour Europe next month.  Cross, who won five Grammys for his 1980 self-titled debut album, also has an Oscar, a Golden Globe and an Emmy nomination to his name.  Tickets for all the NZ shows go on sale on Tuesday, February 4, at 9am. A presale for One NZ customers starts on Thursday, January 30, at 10am, while Mastercard holders will have access to a presale starting on Thursday, January 30, at 10am until Monday, February 3, at 10am.  Toto Dogz of Oz tour with Christopher Cross  Wednesday, April 23 - Spark Arena, Auckland  Thursday, April 24 - TSB Arena, Wellington  Saturday, April 26 - Wolfbrook Arena, Christchurch  Mon, 27 Jan 2025 20:58:34 Z /news/entertainment/jonah-lomu-the-lost-tapes-sean-fitzpatrick-on-narrating-new-documentary-of-friend-s-life/ /news/entertainment/jonah-lomu-the-lost-tapes-sean-fitzpatrick-on-narrating-new-documentary-of-friend-s-life/ Jonah Lomu’s legacy still looms large, the rugby star revered for his work and mana both on and off the field. Now, a new documentary, containing previously unreleased raw footage of him and narrated by close friend and teammate Sean Fitzpatrick, looks to give an insight into “Jonah Lomu, the person” in his own words, not just “Jonah Lomu, the rugby icon”. “It brought back a lot of memories really. It was quite emotional,” All Blacks legend Sean Fitzpatrick said, recalling the time he first viewed the previously unseen tapes of his friend Jonah Lomu. The former captain was a key figure during Lomu’s meteoric rise to fame in the 1990s and called it an “honour” to be able to contribute to a new one-hour documentary that shares those tapes with the world. Lomu: The Lost Tapes, isn’t so much a chronicle of Lomu’s career, but more captures the raw and intimate moments from his memorable life, much of it in his own words. All Blacks Jonah Lomu (left), Sean Fitzpatrick (centre) and Jeff Wilson hold the Bledisloe Cup after beating Australia in Sydney in 1995. New Zealand won the match 34-23. Photo / David Rogers, Allsport Fitzpatrick said the new doco, to be released February 2 at 9.25pm on Three and Three Now, gives viewers an insight into “a lot of behind-the-scenes things that not many people had seen or knew about in terms of his legacy”. “New Zealanders treat him as an icon, and so they should, but it’s nice to get a more personal touch in being closer to him really”. Lomu was born in Pukekohe and started his career as a schoolboy at Wesley College, playing for the First XV with impeccable form. Rapidly rising through the schoolboy channels, he became the youngest-ever test All Black in 1994, aged 19 years, 45 days. His 63-test career for the All Blacks included 37 tries, countless wins and play that cemented him as a true legend of the game. A debilitating kidney disorder and subsequent ill health led to his death in 2015. “The first time I saw him play was ’93,” Fitzpatrick recalled. “We were playing a game in Dunedin, and he was playing in the curtain raiser to New Zealand Secondary Schools. “He scored four tries, and then in the space of nine months he was in the All Blacks, which was pretty surreal”. Besides Fitzpatrick, the new documentary features poignant contributions from some of rugby’s most iconic figures, including Ireland rugby legend Brian O’Driscoll, former England captain Will Carling, Tony Underwood (27 England caps) and Frank Bunce (55 New Zealand caps). Lomu’s family also share deeply personal insights. “To see the way they spoke about him also I think gives the majority of New Zealanders another insight into where Jonah came from, his humble upbringings, and just how universally revered he is not only in New Zealand but around the world,” Fitzpatrick said. “I live in London, and over here they still talk about Jonah as if he’s still playing”. One thing Fitzpatrick thought the tapes would reinforce was something he and his team witnessed over Lomu’s years in the black jersey: his humility. “Humble” and “caring” and “good with people” were just some of the phrases Fitzpatrick used when talking about Lomu’s nature. “With us, he wasn’t seen as a global icon or a global superstar, he was just Jonah, and that’s what he wanted. “He did not want to be treated specially or in any other way, that’s just the way he was, and he was just part of the team”. Sean Fitzpatrick. Photo / Michael Craig When referring to his gameplay, Fitzpatrick said Lomu took every opportunity on the field to enhance his play and help the team. “Ironically, Laurie Mains saying we were going to be the fittest and fastest team in the world in 1995 just played into Jonah’s hands beautifully. “Just that high-tempo game, quick in terms of the ruck speed and all that, just gave Jonah the space and no one had ever seen that before”. His legacy remains on the field today through the thousands of Kiwi kids inspired by Lomu’s time in the jersey. Fitzpatrick hopes the tapes will help that continue. “The influence he is having on the younger generation is still today happening. Young kids through sport can do great things, and Jonah is a shining light of what sport can do to change your life,” he said. “His legacy continues, and I think these tapes in Jonah’s words are only enhancing what a wonderful human being he was”. Lomu: The Lost Tapes airs Sunday, February 2 at 9.25pm on Three and Three Now. Mitchell Hageman joined the Herald’s entertainment and lifestyle team in 2024. He previously worked as a multimedia journalist for Hawke’s Bay Today. Sun, 26 Jan 2025 19:42:55 Z /news/entertainment/chris-brown-files-lawsuit-against-warner-bros-discovery-over-documentary-s-sexual-assault-claims-1/ /news/entertainment/chris-brown-files-lawsuit-against-warner-bros-discovery-over-documentary-s-sexual-assault-claims-1/ Warning: This story mentions rape and sexual assault. Embattled R&B singer Chris Brown has launched a US$500 million (NZ$880m) lawsuit against Warner Bros Discovery following the release of a documentary he claimed painted him as “a serial rapist”. Brown, 35, is suing the major media organisation for defamation in response to Chris Brown: A History of Violence, a 2024 documentary that explored a string of allegations against the singer that included violent behaviour and sexual misconduct. A statement written by Brown’s lawyers and released to his social media accused Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) and several producers of “prioritising profits over journalistic integrity”. They also claimed the corporation had been notified of “the false and misleading narrative” ahead of the documentary’s release late last year. “They sensationalised debunked claims to drive viewership and revenue, recklessly damaging Mr Brown’s reputation and spreading false information to the public,” the statement read. “To be clear, Mr Brown has never been found at fault for any type of sexual crime.” Chris Brown at the Chris Brown live show at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa on December 14, 2024. Photo / Getty Images The documentary was released by the WBD-owned TV network Investigation Discovery as part of its third annual No Excuse for Abuse campaign in October, which also marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The 1 hour 22 minute-long project is summarised on IMDb as a biographical film that “delves into the controversial personal life of Chris Brown, an iconic singer, while exploring allegations of domestic violence, assault charges and sexual misconduct.” An alleged victim of Brown, identified as Jane Doe, was interviewed in the documentary about her purported experiences with the singer, who in February 2009 made global headlines for assaulting then-girlfriend and pop icon Rihanna. In 2022, the Jane Doe sued Brown for sexual assault and battery after he allegedly raped her on a Miami yacht owned by disgraced music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the lawsuit was dismissed “without prejudice” and can be refiled. In the statement, Brown’s lawyers accused the corporations of amplifying Jane Doe’s “defamatory lies” and claimed the alleged victim “actively pursued” a “consensual” relationship with the singer. The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday (US time) in Los Angeles Superior Court, further claimed the Jane Doe had a domestic violence restraining order filed against her and a “history of violence and erratic behavior”. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the suit alleged the producers “[ignored] publicly available court records and other credible evidence”. A spokesperson for Investigation Discovery said a statement to The Hollywood Reporter that it stands behind the production and “will vigorously defend ourselves against this lawsuit”. The lawsuit also named producers Ample, Scaachi Koul, Sharon Carpenter, Michelle Taylor and Cheryl Dorsey. Brown is seeking at least US$500 million (NZ$880m) in compensation - an unspecified percentage of which he said will be donated to survivors of sexual abuse. The 35-year-old addressed his 2009 assault of Rihanna in the 2017 self-produced documentary, Chris Brown: Welcome to My Life, in which he claimed: “I went from being on top of the world, number one songs, being kind of like America’s sweetheart, to being public enemy number one”. “We would fight each other. She would hit me, I would hit her and it never was OK,” he alleged. Brown received five years probation and a community service order for the assault. In 2017, Brown’s former girlfriend Karrueche Tran was granted a five-year domestic violence restraining order against him, which she sought to extend in 2020. In the filing, Tran accused Brown of physical violence and threatening to kill her. In July 2024, Brown and his entourage were sued for US$50 million (NZ$88m) after the “brutal” and “violent” alleged assault of four concertgoers. In June 2021, Brown was investigated by police for allegedly slapping a woman at his Los Angeles home. The singer has three children - Royalty, 10, Aeko, 5, and Lovely, 3 - with three women. Chris Brown: A History of Violence is available to watch in New Zealand on ThreeNow. SEXUAL HARM Where to get help: If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:• Call 0800 044 334• Text 4334• Email support@safetotalk.nz• For more info or to web chat visit safetotalk.nzAlternatively contact your local police station - click here for a list.If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault. FAMILY VIOLENCE How to get help: If you're in danger now:• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours or friends to ring for you.• Run outside and head for where there are other people. Scream for help so your neighbours can hear you.• Take the children with you. Don't stop to get anything else.• If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay.Where to go for help or more information:• Women's Refuge: Crisis line - 0800 REFUGE or 0800 733 843 (available 24/7)• Shine: Helpline - 0508 744 633 (available 24/7)• It's Not Ok: Family violence information line - 0800 456 450• Shakti: Specialist services for African, Asian and Middle Eastern women and children.• Crisis line - 0800 742 584 (available 24/7)• Ministry of Justice: For information on family violence• Te Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patunga: National Network of Family Violence Services• White Ribbon: Aiming to eliminate men's violence towards women.How to hide your visit:If you are reading this information on the Herald website and you're worried that someone using the same computer will find out what you've been looking at, you can follow the steps at the link here to hide your visit. Each of the websites above also has a section that outlines this process. Fri, 24 Jan 2025 02:54:28 Z /news/entertainment/the-chase-annoying-contestant-leaves-bradley-walsh-viewers-in-shock/ /news/entertainment/the-chase-annoying-contestant-leaves-bradley-walsh-viewers-in-shock/ Viewers of The Chase begged one contestant to “please stop” an act they deemed “one of the most annoying things ever seen on the show”. During the episode which screened on Wednesday in the UK, Surrey resident Samir took on the Chaser, as reported by the Daily Mail UK. Samir, who had started the competition with fellow hopefuls Jill Godfrey and Lilli, faced off against ‘The Governess’ Anne Hegerty after winning £5000 ($10,868). Asked what he would do with his winnings, the contestant replied that his dream was to take Love Island host Maya Jama on a date. “I should invest it, which is a little bit boring, but I’d really like to take Maya Jama out for dinner,” he said. Host Bradley Walsh and the audience were left gobsmacked. But it was one “annoying habit” of Samir’s that viewers couldn’t stop talking about after the show. Those who tuned in took to social media after the episode aired, decrying his “long explanations” every time he responded to a question. “This dude thinks he’s making a TikTok. Turning to Bradley after each answer to explain it and using his hands. Possibly one of the most annoying things I’ve seen on this show,” wrote one. Another fan of The Chase joked, “Thanks for the explanations to your answers, Samir! I’m sure they weren’t too long!” while another begged him to “Stop overexplaining every answer lad, this show only lasts an hour.” “Are the explanations necessary? Please stop!” another commented. Last year, one episode of The Chase resulted in one contestant receiving a warning from host Bradley Walsh after they took too long to answer a question. Bradley Walsh gave the contestant a warning following his slow pace. Photo / ITV The Mirror reported the popular game show took a stern turn after one contestant seemingly forgot the rules of the competition. While competing against Shaun Wallace, also known as The Dark Destroyer, one player, Jermaine, appeared to be taking too long to answer questions and at one point, even ran out of time. His slow pace met a quick response from Walsh who had no choice but to issue a warning. “Jermaine, here’s the thing. Once he presses the button, you have five seconds in which to answer. Don’t let it happen again.” And it seems Walsh wasn’t the only one left frustrated by the contestant, fans took to X to share their thoughts with one person claiming you could “fit buses” between the gap of the question being asked and Jermaine answering them. Another said, “Jermaine should just say Pass to save time …” a third wrote, “Out of time??? Unforgivable.” Fri, 24 Jan 2025 02:37:27 Z /news/entertainment/oscars-2025-wellington-s-w%C4%93t%C4%81-fx-garners-more-awards-season-praise-with-three-visual-effects-nominations/ /news/entertainment/oscars-2025-wellington-s-w%C4%93t%C4%81-fx-garners-more-awards-season-praise-with-three-visual-effects-nominations/ Wellington’s Wētā FX received three Visual Effects Oscar nominations for its work on Alien: Romulus, Better Man, and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.  This adds to the studio’s two Bafta nominations for Better Man and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.  Head of VFX Matt Aitken highlighted the record number of individuals nominated this year.  Wētā FX is proudly flying the flag for New Zealand this entertainment awards season, adding more prestigious nominations to its already impressive arsenal and setting a personal record in the process.  Fresh off the back of two Bafta Award nominations, it was announced on Friday (NZ time) that the acclaimed Wellington-headquartered VFX outlet has nabbed three Academy Award (Oscar) nominations for its team’s work on three hit Hollywood films.  Founded in 1993, the studio has gone from strength to strength and is responsible for some of Hollywood’s most iconic on-screen characters in films like Avatar and Lord of the Rings.  This year, Alien: Romulus, Better Man, and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes have been recognised with Best Visual Effects Oscar nominations, which are determined by votes from members of the Visual Effects Branch of the Academy of Motion Pictures and Sciences.  Bjorn (Spike Fearn) and a xenomorph in Alien: Romulus. Photo / Disney Studios  Wētā FX has also nabbed Bafta nominations for its work on Better Man and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes.  Team members from the studio that worked on the Oscar-nominated films include Daniel Macarin (Alien: Romulus), Luke Millar, David Clayton, and Keith Herft (Better Man), and Erik Winquist, Paul Story, and Stephen Unterfranz (Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes).  In Alien: Romulus, an instalment of the iconic Alien series, Wētā FX digitally augmented practical suits used on set for an alien creature and also created large-scale visual effects simulations for outer space collisions and explosions in the film’s ending.  “We are incredibly proud to have our team’s work on the third act of Alien: Romulus recognised by the Academy," Macarin said.  “We worked closely with director Fede Álvarez to build on the franchise’s history and bring audiences closer to the rings of a planet than ever before. We hope this nomination inspires the next generation of VFX artists and sci-fi space film fans”.  Jonno Davies as Robbie Williams in Better Man. Photo / Paramount Pictures  Better Man and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes both saw Wētā FX artists work on a series of CGI chimps and other impressive visual effects.  Head of VFX Matt Aitken said teams were “responsible for practically all of the visual effects work,” on those two projects, and the Oscar nods for all films set a personal record for the company.  “This has been an exceptional year for the artists at Wētā FX, producing groundbreaking work of the highest quality,” he said  “We have more individuals nominated for an Oscar this year than in any other year in the company’s history. “  Aitken said the company, which has already won seven visual effects Academy Awards and seven Baftas in its impressive history, is acknowledged as “world leaders” in the area of digital performance, which was one of the most challenging areas in the VFX field.  “The Academy has recognised this with these nominations, testament to the artistry of everyone at Wētā FX who worked on these productions”.  Weta FX crafted the ape characters in hit film Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. Photo / Weta FX  Once the Oscar nominations are announced, voting for the winners is open to all branches of the Academy to decide the winner.  The 97th Academy Awards are set to be held in Los Angeles on Monday March 3, 2025 (NZT).  Fri, 24 Jan 2025 01:33:49 Z /news/entertainment/chris-brown-files-lawsuit-against-warner-bros-discovery-over-documentary-s-sexual-assault-claims/ /news/entertainment/chris-brown-files-lawsuit-against-warner-bros-discovery-over-documentary-s-sexual-assault-claims/ Warning: This story mentions rape and sexual assault.  Embattled R&B singer Chris Brown has launched a US$500 million (NZ$880m) lawsuit against Warner Bros Discovery following the release of a documentary he claimed painted him as “a serial rapist”.  Brown, 35, is suing the major media organisation for defamation in response to Chris Brown: A History of Violence, a 2024 documentary that explored a string of allegations against the singer that included violent behaviour and sexual misconduct.  A statement written by Brown’s lawyers and released to his social media accused Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) and several producers of “prioritising profits over journalistic integrity”. They also claimed the corporation had been notified of “the false and misleading narrative” ahead of the documentary’s release late last year.  “They sensationalised debunked claims to drive viewership and revenue, recklessly damaging Mr Brown’s reputation and spreading false information to the public,” the statement read.  “To be clear, Mr Brown has never been found at fault for any type of sexual crime.”  Chris Brown at the Chris Brown live show at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa on December 14, 2024. Photo / Getty Images  The documentary was released by the WBD-owned TV network Investigation Discovery as part of its third annual No Excuse for Abuse campaign in October, which also marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  The 1 hour 22 minute-long project is summarised on IMDb as a biographical film that “delves into the controversial personal life of Chris Brown, an iconic singer, while exploring allegations of domestic violence, assault charges and sexual misconduct.”  An alleged victim of Brown, identified as Jane Doe, was interviewed in the documentary about her purported experiences with the singer, who in February 2009 made global headlines for assaulting then-girlfriend and pop icon Rihanna.  In 2022, the Jane Doe sued Brown for sexual assault and battery after he allegedly raped her on a Miami yacht owned by disgraced music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the lawsuit was dismissed “without prejudice” and can be refiled.  In the statement, Brown’s lawyers accused the corporations of amplifying Jane Doe’s “defamatory lies” and claimed the alleged victim “actively pursued” a “consensual” relationship with the singer.  The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday (US time) in Los Angeles Superior Court, further claimed the Jane Doe had a domestic violence restraining order filed against her and a “history of violence and erratic behavior”.  According to The Hollywood Reporter, the suit alleged the producers “[ignored] publicly available court records and other credible evidence”.  A spokesperson for Investigation Discovery said a statement to The Hollywood Reporter that it stands behind the production and “will vigorously defend ourselves against this lawsuit”.  The lawsuit also named producers Ample, Scaachi Koul, Sharon Carpenter, Michelle Taylor and Cheryl Dorsey.  Brown is seeking at least US$500 million (NZ$880m) in compensation - an unspecified percentage of which he said will be donated to survivors of sexual abuse.  The 35-year-old addressed his 2009 assault of Rihanna in the 2017 self-produced documentary, Chris Brown: Welcome to My Life, in which he claimed: “I went from being on top of the world, number one songs, being kind of like America’s sweetheart, to being public enemy number one”.  “We would fight each other. She would hit me, I would hit her and it never was OK,” he alleged.  Brown received five years probation and a community service order for the assault.  In 2017, Brown’s former girlfriend Karrueche Tran was granted a five-year domestic violence restraining order against him, which she sought to extend in 2020. In the filing, Tran accused Brown of physical violence and threatening to kill her.  In July 2024, Brown and his entourage were sued for US$50 million (NZ$88m) after the “brutal” and “violent” alleged assault of four concertgoers.  In June 2021, Brown was investigated by police for allegedly slapping a woman at his Los Angeles home.  The singer has three children - Royalty, 10, Aeko, 5, and Lovely, 3 - with three women.  Chris Brown: A History of Violence is available to watch in New Zealand on ThreeNow.  SEXUAL HARM  Where to get help:If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:• Call 0800 044 334• Text 4334• Email support@safetotalk.nz• For more info or to web chat visit safetotalk.nzAlternatively contact your local police station - click here for a list.If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault. FAMILY VIOLENCE  How to get help:If you're in danger now:• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours or friends to ring for you.• Run outside and head for where there are other people. Scream for help so your neighbours can hear you.• Take the children with you. Don't stop to get anything else.• If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay.Where to go for help or more information:• Women's Refuge: Crisis line - 0800 REFUGE or 0800 733 843 (available 24/7)• Shine: Helpline - 0508 744 633 (available 24/7)• It's Not Ok: Family violence information line - 0800 456 450• Shakti: Specialist services for African, Asian and Middle Eastern women and children.• Crisis line - 0800 742 584 (available 24/7)• Ministry of Justice: For information on family violence• Te Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patunga: National Network of Family Violence Services• White Ribbon: Aiming to eliminate men's violence towards women.How to hide your visit:If you are reading this information on the Herald website and you're worried that someone using the same computer will find out what you've been looking at, you can follow the steps at the link here to hide your visit. Each of the websites above also has a section that outlines this process. Thu, 23 Jan 2025 22:16:02 Z /news/entertainment/bob-dylan-s-1976-will-up-for-sale-for-48-000/ /news/entertainment/bob-dylan-s-1976-will-up-for-sale-for-48-000/ Bob Dylan’s old will is up for sale.  The 83-year-old singer originally signed the plans for after his death as “Robert Dylan” and the document is dated August 26, 1976, with the wording showing it is an amendment to a document he originally filed on September 22 the previous year.  The typed codicil – which is hand-signed and dated – is going up for sale through Moments in Time, with the collectors setting the price at US$27,500 ($48,470).  In the document, Dylan stated he was leaving his brother David Zimmerman US$50,000 ($88,127) and the house he was living in at that time, and also made provisions for any children who outlived him.  At the time of signing the paperwork, Dylan had children Maria, now 63, Jesse, now 59, Anna, now 57, Samuel, now 56, and Jakob, now 55, with then-wife Sara Lownds. He went on to have daughter Desiree, now 38, with second wife Carolyn Dennis, who he split from in 1992.  It is unclear at what point the folk legend rewrote his will for this version to be able to change hands now.  Timothee Chalamet plays Dylan in A Complete Unknown. Photo / Searchlight Pictures  Dylan is currently in the spotlight following the release of his biopic A Complete Unknown, in which he is played by Timothee Chalamet, and director James Mangold recently praised the Lay Lady Lay hitmaker for being “incredibly helpful” during a series of “lovely” meetings.  Mangold told Big Issue magazine: “We met in a coffee shop that was closed for Covid and we just sat down and talked for five hours.  “We did the same over a series of dates after that. And they were just lovely conversations in which he was anything but guarded. He answered any question I had.  “I was a curious artist asking questions, many of which he’d never been asked before, rather than a biographer setting down something to be put in print.  “There’s a kind of emotional reality that I’ve got to kind of capture – and he was incredibly helpful with that.”  And when he had any doubts about the project, Dylan put his fears at ease.  Mangold said: “He’s been nothing but a positive force.”  “There was a moment when I was writing the script when people were getting nervous that it was veering too much from a simple story of folk versus rock into the personal side of his life.  “Bob asked to read the script, reacted positively, and gave me the green light to continue, and that includes depictions of misbehaviour. He sees himself with a clear eye.”  Mon, 20 Jan 2025 23:57:32 Z /news/entertainment/review-cold-chisel-scorch-in-queenstown/ /news/entertainment/review-cold-chisel-scorch-in-queenstown/ Cold Chisel have brought their acclaimed 50th Anniversary Tour to New Zealand, headlining the Summer Concert Tour with shows in Queenstown, Taupō and Whitianga. After wowing audiences throughout Australia, the ageless pub rockers have only enhanced their reputations as Australasian rock royalty. Mike Thorpe went to Queenstown to see what they’ve got left after 50 years of hard rock. Rarely at Gibbston Valley has the headline act been met with the sort of surge in excitement that erupted when Cold Chisel walked out on stage to an adoring crowd of over 14,000 on Saturday afternoon. Anticipation had been building since the gates opened, along with sweat levels and an unprecedented queue of traffic on State Highway 6. The day had been a scorcher under the intense Central Otago sun with temperatures in the high 20s (if not low 30s) and the average age of the crowd much, much higher. Affectionately dubbed “Boomerpalooza”, the Gibbston event attracts a mostly mature audience from all over the South Island. The venue and the company behind the event (Greenstone Entertainment) have a reputation for running quality shows – even with the extreme-weather roulette that concertgoers have rolled the dice on here since 2011. It’s seen virtually everything but snow in that time – and in 2017, that seemed a distinct possibility. If you’ve never been to the Gibbston Valley site, it is a vast paddock with a gradual incline that provides perfect tiered seating for thousands of revellers and just as many folding chairs. At the bottom of the property is a large stage that has hosted a myriad international names of yesteryear – “legacy acts”, I believe they’re called. The stunning backdrop at the Gibbston Valley Winery venue, looking out on to the Crown Range. Photo / Below Media, Greenstone Entertainment The imposing backdrop is provided by the vast Crown Range. A beige, sun-drenched landscape that is both a place of great beauty and relaxation. But the peace was about to be broken by Australia’s finest. In a happy place When Jimmy Barnes takes the stage he stalks the opening bars of Standing on the Outside like they owe him money. Dressed in a black shirt, black patent leather boots and black leather pants (the temperature had dropped to a more manageable 19C by then) – the 68-year-old’s intensity demands that the crowd get on their feet. They do. Old, young, GA and corporate. If 10/10 is maximum effort, Barnes rates an 11 – with facial expressions that most of us reserve for standing on Lego. Even the way he counts himself in is aggressive, bouncing like a boxer looking for an opening ... but when the snarl becomes a smile during Cheap Wine, it’s obvious that Chisel’s frontman (since 1974) is back in his happy place. Jimmy Barnes in his happy place, back with the band. Photo / Robert Hambling By his side through it all is the uber-talented Ian Moss. The 69-year-old lead guitarist and vocalist sends his glittering silver fingernails dancing across the frets during Breakfast at Sweethearts. There’s no sign of silver in his hair – and there’s no hint of deterioration in his voice as he takes the mic for My Baby. In their 51st year together, Barnes and Moss have an obvious and enduring chemistry. The thought that this tour could be their last together seems wasteful, not just because of their on-stage partnership, but because they both have so much more to give. Barnes’ performance of Choirgirl is as soulful now as it was in 1980 and Moss’ cover of Georgia (Ray Charles) was utterly spectacular. Legendary guitarist and founding member of Cold Chisel, Ian Moss. Photo / Robert Hambling Backing them both up were the three female singers (including EJ Barnes) whose vocals on When the War is Over induced goosebumps. But the rock soon returned and my watch warned me that I was in a loud-noise environment (like I didn’t know that already) as Jimmy Barnes, Ian Moss, Don Walker (keyboard), Phil Small (bass), Charlie Drayton (drums) and 14,000 sun-soaked followers belted out Forever Now. On their feet! The crowd at Gibbston Valley Winery soaking up the sun, the rain and everything that Cold Chisel offered. Photo / Robert Hambling At 5.15pm Gibbston’s famed weather roulette wheel spun again. “I think we’re making it rain!” said Barnes, before ripping into Shipping Steel, Nothing I Want and Flame Trees. Cold Chisel bring their 50th-anniversary tour to the Gibbston Valley. Photo / Below Media, Greenstone Entertainment The brief shower was over by the time Cold Chisel launched into the anthemic Khe Sanh and Bow River. Golden age Earlier, Cromwell High School group Mistep had warmed the crowd up with a set-list of covers. The student band had been hand-picked to open the show by the “nice guy of grunge” – Art Alexakis. Alexakis is the lead singer and founding member of Everclear, who battled heavy traffic to make their slot, arriving on stage 15 minutes late. Due on at 12.30pm, they arrived at 12.40pm and wasted no time between getting out of the car and on stage. “Five minutes. I put my ears in, took stuff out of my pockets [and went on stage],” says Alexakis. The band is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Sparkle and Fade (1995), the album that launched them into charts all over the world with hits like Santa Monica and Heroin Girl. Scorching! 14,000-plus enjoy the hot weather on Saturday afternoon. Photo / Below Media, Greenstone Entertainment Alexakis told the Herald he’s proud to have been part of the grunge era. “That’s like the second golden age of classic rock!” says Alexakis. The 62-year-old was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis several years ago, but continues to put out high-energy performances. That said, it seemed as though the promoters had erred with the order of the line-up. Bic Runga was a more obvious opener to build momentum. “We haven’t been the first of anything since like 1994!” Alexakis says with a smile. Opening with So Much for the Afterglow, bassist Freddy Herrera assured the crowd they’d play “all the hits”. “Hey! Who remembers the 1990s?” asks Alexakis. He does. In an era that was teeming with rock legends, Alexakis produced a distinct sound that set him and his group apart from the rest. “I always thought I was the lame duck. Every singer back then either sounded like Layne Staley (Alice in Chains), Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam) or ... well, no one sounded like Chris Cornell (Soundgarden), they wish! I just always had my voice,” says Alexakis. And he still has it. The vocal speed of Wonderful might be getting harder, but that sound that stood out in 1995 is just as unmistakable 30 years later. Everclear finished with a bang – Local God and their biggest single, Santa Monica. Bic Runga on stage at Gibbston Valley Winery. Photo / Below Media, Greenstone Entertainment Bic Runga did what Bic Runga does, flawlessly navigating her way through her catalogue of Kiwi classics. Runga shared her surprise with the crowd that she had seen “Katie”. “She gave me my first gig when I was 15. She wheeled me out at Cafe Bleu!” announced an excited Runga. It was a fantastic set – but it would’ve been a better fit at 12.30pm. The Gibbston weather roulette wheel landed on “twister” at 2.40pm with a sudden and violent gust of wind blowing dozens of hats to new owners and launching a vintage sun umbrella 30m towards an unsuspecting family. Nobody was hurt and a short time later the day’s first stretch of cloud cover offered some welcomed respite. The third ‘big name’ of the day was Icehouse, returning to the venue for the first time since 2017. Iva Davies is the consummate frontman with a voice that charts even richer depths as he gets older. His vocals on Hey Little Girl showcasing just how good he still is. Electric Blue: Iva Davies and Icehouse performing at Gibbston Valley. Photo Below Media, Greenstone Entertainment That track also featured a show-stopping solo from saxophonist Hugo Lee. Davies was accompanied by the crowd on Crazy before an impassioned performance of Don’t Believe Anymore, a song of desperation. “I find it difficult to perform every night because of what’s associated with it,” Davies told the Herald before the tour. Icehouse rounded their set out with We Can Get Together from their debut album and a song that could easily be the soundtrack to Gibbston Valley – Great Southern Land. The final chapter of the Gibbston Valley venue did have some lows. The new premium zone in front of the stage disconnected the earlier bands from the general admission crowd - with the ‘mosh pit’ remaining largely empty until Chisel took the stage. There was a brief reappearance of the MC dubbed “turbo tonsils” who has bellowed inanities at audiences for years, and there was at least one over-zealous security guard (give the kids their beach ball back!) but this place went out with a bang ... and an afternoon of bangers. Twenty-eight thousand hands clapping in unison as the last tunes out of Gibbston had almost gone. Where will the South Island leg be next year? Watch this space. The Summer Concert Series shifts to Taupō (Saturday 25) and Whitianga (Sunday 26) this weekend. Nobody knows for sure if the Whitianga show will be Cold Chisel’s swansong. You’d hate to think so – and you’d hate to miss it, just in case. Mike Thorpe is a senior multimedia journalist for the Herald based in Christchurch. He has been a broadcast journalist across television and radio for 20 years and joined the Herald in August 2024. Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:51:23 Z /news/entertainment/moana-2-box-office-hit-animated-film-earns-over-1-billion-worldwide-through-theatrical-release/ /news/entertainment/moana-2-box-office-hit-animated-film-earns-over-1-billion-worldwide-through-theatrical-release/ Disney has a new member of its billion-dollar-grossing movie club for 2024, with smash hit animated sequel Moana 2 earning US$1.009 billion ($1.8b) globally eight weekends from its release date. The film joins previous 2024 Disney features Inside Out 2 and Deadpool & Wolverine as the third film to reach the mammoth milestone, earning US$445m ($796m) in the US and US$567m ($1b) internationally. Starring Kiwi talent such as Dave Fane and Temuera Morrison alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Auli’i Cravalho, Moana 2 tells the continuing story of Moana as she embarks on a new ocean-based adventure after an unexpected call from her ancestors. Moana 2 has reached over $1 billion at the box office. Photo / Disney In a decision executives will likely be reflecting on as a good one, the film was originally slated as a television series for the Disney+ streaming service but eventually changed to a feature film. The US$1b global haul pales in comparison to the original movie’s US$680m ($1.2b) earnings in 2016, with Screen Rant citing the new film’s stronger appeal across global markets, with notable success in the US, China, and Europe. “This success also emphasises the importance of theatrical distribution for animated films, showcasing that there is still a significant demand for high-quality family films on the big screen, even as streaming services continue to dominate the market,” Screen Rant’s Alexis Zaccaria wrote. Despite mixed critical reviews, Variety reported the film benefited from positive word of mouth among moviegoers and remained in the top five on US domestic charts for seven consecutive weekends. “Moana 2 has far surpassed our high expectations this weekend and is a testament to the phenomenon that Moana has become. This is a moment to celebrate, and we’re thankful to all the moviegoers and fans who’ve helped make this a record-breaking debut," Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman said in a statement at the time. A spokesperson for Hoyts confirmed to the Herald Moana 2 also opened in the number-one spot in New Zealand cinemas and stayed there throughout its opening week, with both the English and Māori versions of the film earning a combined $3.14m. It was also the highest-grossing weekend for an animated film of all time in New Zealand, beating out 2004’s Shrek 2, which at the time took out $2.2m. Its meteoric success comes as the Walt Disney Company is also facing a multibillion-dollar lawsuit after claims of plagiarism were mounted against both films in the series. Animator Buck Woodall has filed a suit in California, seeking damages of at least US$10b ($17.9b) over a claim Disney allegedly stole elements of a screenplay for a film called Bucky, which he wrote in the early 2000s. According to Decider, Moana director Ron Clements said in a court declaration the film was “not inspired by or based in any way on [Woodall] or his Bucky project, which I learned of for the first time after this lawsuit was filed”. Sun, 19 Jan 2025 23:08:22 Z /news/entertainment/luke-combs-performs-a-shoey-with-nz-rugby-stars-at-eden-park-concert/ /news/entertainment/luke-combs-performs-a-shoey-with-nz-rugby-stars-at-eden-park-concert/ Home-grown rugby stars joined US country music legend Luke Combs on stage at Eden Park as he performed a shoey in front of the crowd during his Saturday night show at New Zealand’s national stadium. In a video posted by ZM on social media, the Where The Wild Things Are hitmaker could be seen on stage alongside rugby stars from the All Blacks and Super Rugby teams such as the Blues and the Crusaders. All Blacks David Havili and Finlay Christie and Crusaders player Quinten Strange were among the group of a dozen or so rugby professionals who filed on to the makeshift platform with drinks in hand. One of the rugby stars carried a cowboy boot for the Grammy Award-winning singer, which Combs took as he hyped up the crowd and the players. Fans could be heard screaming and cheering as Combs drank his shoey while the rugby players shotgunned their cans. After polishing off his bootlegged drink, Combs raised his hand to the sky before diving into 1, 2 Many (featuring Brooks and Dunn) from his 2019 album What You See Is What You Get, as the rugby stars danced along and filmed the moment unfolding. Combs was in Aotearoa over the weekend to perform two massive gigs on January 17 and 18 at the Mt Eden venue. Eden Park is primarily a sports venue, commonly used to host Super Rugby, provincial and international rugby union matches during the winter season. In a review of Friday night’s concert, Herald entertainment reporter Mitchell Hageman said Combs and his crew “delivered a top-class country extravaganza, packed with pitch-perfect musicianship, heartfelt stories, and a party atmosphere that I reckon could’ve left some wanting to book the next flight to Nashville”. He described the scene on Friday night as “one that proved Aotearoa’s love for country music is stronger than it’s ever been.” Eden Park has a capacity for over 50,000 attendees at concerts, so around 100,000 country music fans from across Aotearoa are estimated to have packed the stands over the two nights. The When It Rains It Pours singer, who fittingly donned an All Blacks cap for both concerts, is a huge fan of rugby and once played Aotearoa’s national sport while he studied at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. Luke Combs charmed the crowd of thousands at Eden Park on January 17 with his charisma and cheeky smile. Photo / Corey Fleming Speaking to the Herald‘s Jenni Mortimer in 2022, Combs revealed he was just “one try away from making the Eagles [US men’s national rugby team]” while in university and joked that “making the All Blacks never happened”. “It was fun. I played for three and a half years in college and I had a really great time doing that. I played football in high school, so it was kind of an easy transition. “Obviously, there are some major differences. At the end of the day, you get to hit people, and that was pretty gratifying,” he joked. “I love rugby, I love watching it,” he added. Combs previously confessed during his last New Zealand show in August 2023 that within four days of being in the country, he had “shot a red stag and been to an All Blacks game”. “I’m really having a good time,” he told the crowd at Spark Arena. Sun, 19 Jan 2025 03:44:29 Z /news/entertainment/cameron-diaz-comes-out-of-retirement-with-new-movie-back-in-action-her-first-in-over-a-decade/ /news/entertainment/cameron-diaz-comes-out-of-retirement-with-new-movie-back-in-action-her-first-in-over-a-decade/ Cameron Diaz returns to acting in Netflix’s Back in Action after more than 10 years. Diaz focused on her wine company and family during her break, saying no to acting. Her return, encouraged by husband Benji Madden, is not definite, with the actress uncertain as to her future in the film industry. One of the highest grossing stars of the 90s, actress Cameron Diaz, returns to screens this week for her first film in more than 10 years, but the icon revealed she had terms for stepping out of retirement. Fittingly titled Back in Action, the actress' new Netflix action-comedy film stars her and Jamie Foxx as ex-CIA spies Emily and Matt, who are pulled back into espionage after their secret identities are exposed. Diaz, now 52, was last seen playing Miss Hannigan in 2014’s Annie alongside Foxx. In 2013,she was revealed by The Hollywood Reporter as being the highest paid actress over 40, first gaining major acclaim for her role in the comedy There’s Something About Mary in 1998. Drew Barrymore, Bill Murray, Lucy Liu, and Cameron Diaz in Charlie's Angels. Photo / Columbia Pictures, File In a new behind-the-scenes Netflix clip promoting her new film, Diaz spoke openly about her return to acting. Comfortable with being away from the limelight, the actress revealed that over the last decade she had said “no to everything” and put “most of my focus” on her wine company, Avaline, and her children. “I was perfectly happy just living my life, doing other things,” The Mask star said. “Day in and day out, not movies. And then I get a phone call from Jamie Foxx, and how do you say no to Jamie Foxx when he says, ‘Hey, I’ve got this big action comedy that we can just have so much fun on'.” Why BACK IN ACTION is Cameron Diaz’s first movie in 10 years, in her own words. Premiering this Friday. pic.twitter.com/lNzFI1sNv6— Netflix (@netflix) January 15, 2025 Diaz previously noted in a December interview with Empire that her return to the screen came with terms. “I don’t know how I view it. It’s hard to say,” she said when asked if she would continue to make movies after Back in Action. “If I say it then it becomes this thing. I reserve the right to say no to doing a movie ever again, and I reserve the right to say yes if I decide to.” Whispers of Diaz’s return to the screen happened around 2022, and a source told People that she felt “a bit rusty and nervous”, but “mostly excited”, about her comeback. It was also revealed that her husband, Good Charlotte singer Benji Madden, “encouraged her to unretire”. But it remains to be seen as to whether Diaz will make a fully-fledged comeback, with the actress speaking in 2021 about the benefits being away from the screen had when raising her kids. “But I couldn’t imagine like being a mum now where I’m at as a mother with my child at her first year to have to be on a movie set that takes 14 hours, 16 hours of my day away from my child. I just couldn’t,” 九一星空无限break reported Diaz saying in 2021. “I personally feel like that wasn’t the mum that, I wouldn’t have been the mum that I am now had I chosen to do that at any other time in my life.” Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden have two children together. Diaz also found fame in the animated movie circuit, well-known for her voicing of Shrek character Princess Fiona. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Diaz will reprise her role for the highly anticipated Shrek 5, meaning the actress may not be fully done with showbusiness just yet. Fri, 17 Jan 2025 02:30:02 Z /news/entertainment/donald-trump-announces-actors-mel-gibson-jon-voight-and-sylvester-stallone-as-his-special-ambassadors/ /news/entertainment/donald-trump-announces-actors-mel-gibson-jon-voight-and-sylvester-stallone-as-his-special-ambassadors/ Donald Trump has named Mel Gibson, Sylvester Stallone and Jon Voight as his “special ambassadors” to Hollywood. Trump announced that he had appointed the three actors, who are all longtime supporters of the President-elect, to these “ambassador” roles in a post on Truth Social today. “It is my honour to announce Jon Voight, Mel Gibson, and Sylvester Stallone, to be Special Ambassadors to a great but very troubled place, Hollywood, California,” he wrote, according to the Guardian. Trump added that the actors would “serve as Special Envoys to me for the purpose of bringing Hollywood, which has lost much business over the last four years to Foreign Countries, BACK - BIGGER, BETTER, AND STRONGER THAN EVER BEFORE[sic]!” “These three very talented people will be my eyes and ears, and I will get done what they suggest,” he continued, promising that “The Golden Age of Hollywood” would ensue. Mel Gibson has been named one of Trump's 'special ambassadors' to Hollywood. Photo / Getty Images It comes after countless celebrities voiced their support for his opponent Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election - and as the Los Angeles wildfires have caused devastation and widespread loss of life in an area central to the film and TV industry. Countless Hollywood resident have lost their homes - including Gibson - while 25 people have died in the wildfires. Trump’s newly-appointed special ambassadors have made headlines themselves in recent years. Voight has criticised his estranged daughter and fellow actor Angelina Jolie for her support of Gazan refugees, describing it as “propaganda”, while Gibson was recorded making anti-Semitic and racist comments during his arrest in 2006 for drink-driving. Stallone lent Trump his support during the most recent election campaign, and has described Trump as a “second George Washington”. It’s not known if the actors will be present at Trump’s inauguration on Monday local time - though country music stars Carrie Underwood and Jason Aldean, as well as Kid Rock, will perform during the ceremony. Fri, 17 Jan 2025 02:01:37 Z /news/entertainment/sex-pistols-announce-first-new-zealand-tour-in-30-years/ /news/entertainment/sex-pistols-announce-first-new-zealand-tour-in-30-years/ In 2024, punk icon and Pistols fan Frank Carter joined original band members Paul Cook, Steve Jones, Glen Matlock, performing the Sex Pistols' iconic 1977 album Never Mind The Bollocks in full in front of a UK crowd.  For the first time in 30 years, the English punk rock band will visit New Zealand in April for a run of shows serving up that performance.  Kicking off on April 2 at Auckland Town Hall, the tour will then head to Christchurch and across to Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane and concluding at Fremantle Prison on April 11.  The Sex Pistols' first line-up included vocalist Johnny Rotten, guitarist Jones, drummer Cook, and bassist Matlock, before Matlock was replaced by Sid Vicious.  Their sole studio album Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols (1977) was regarded as iconic in the development of punk rock.  In January 1978, at the final gig of a US tour, Jonny Rotten announced the band’s break-up live on stage.  Vicious died of a heroin overdose in February 1979 following his arrest for the alleged murder of his girlfriend, Nancy Spungen.  Rotten, Jones, Cook and Matlock later reunited in 1966 for a successful tour that included New Zealand, and some one-off performances and short tours followed over the next decade.  Rotten will not be on this current tour. In 2024, Carter joined Jones, Cook and Matlock, as the Sex Pistols, for two fundraiser concerts in England and a UK tour followed.  Now that outfit is bound for New Zealand and Australia. Tickets go on sale January 23 at 12pm.  - RNZ  Thu, 16 Jan 2025 23:56:45 Z /news/entertainment/director-david-lynch-dies-at-age-78/ /news/entertainment/director-david-lynch-dies-at-age-78/ The director behind Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive, David Lynch has died - he was 78.   The American film maker received three best director Oscar nominations and was given an honorary lifetime achievement Oscar in 2019.   Lynch was known for his dark and surrealist visual story telling and for pushing the boundaries of film-making.   His family announced his death in a Facebook post on Friday.  "It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch. We would appreciate some privacy at this time.  "There's a big hole in the world now that he's no longer with us. But, as he would say, 'Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole'."   Lynch was diagnosed with emphysema last year.  More to come.  Thu, 16 Jan 2025 19:16:06 Z /news/entertainment/christchurch-based-collective-brown-town-defends-use-of-racially-tiered-ticketing-prices-for-music-event-complaints-laid/ /news/entertainment/christchurch-based-collective-brown-town-defends-use-of-racially-tiered-ticketing-prices-for-music-event-complaints-laid/ The Human Rights Commission has received complaints over a music event that used a “racist” tiered ticketing structure which allowed people of Māori and Pasifika descent to buy cheaper tickets. But the Christchurch-based collective behind the event – which says it’s dedicated to creating safe, inclusive spaces for Māori and Pasifika communities – says the ticketing structure was designed to “remove barriers for indigenous people” and recognised systemic inequalities that have historically affected Māori and Pasifika communities. Brown Town Ōtautahi was set to host “Waves: Sunday Session” at Christchurch bar Muy Muy this month – an event it said would be an afternoon of “reckless abandonment under the summer sun”. But concerns were raised shortly after over the racially tiered ticketing Brown Town adopted for the event. Tickets – sold via Australian ticketing platform Humanitix – were listed at three different price points: “Early bird (for all Tangata): $15, Tangata Moana (for our Māori and Pacific Tangata): $20 and Tangata Tiriti (for our allies): $30.” A commission spokesperson confirmed it had received a “small number of complaints” about the event, but it could not provide any further details because of the Privacy Act. The Human Rights Commission says it has received a "small number of complaints" about the event. Photo / Human Rights Commission “The commission also can’t make findings or decide if the law has been breached. “It’s our understanding that the ticketing structure to this event was amended this morning.” Race Relations Commissioner Melissa Derby said she encouraged all people to use approaches that “promote positive race relations and enhance harmonious relations” for all people in New Zealand. “While recognising the event organisers were well-intentioned in aiming to increase accessibility for their communities, there are alternative, non-discriminatory avenues which could also achieve the same outcome without the risk of perpetuating negative stereotypes about particular communities,” Derby said. The wording on the ticketing options has since been updated to “Early bird: $15, Alofa Access: $20, and Ally Access: $30.” The wording on the ticketing options has been updated after concerns were raised. Photo / Humanitix Creative New Zealand (CNZ), which granted Brown Town $35,000 last year as part of its Creative Impact Fund (Pacific Arts),told the Herald it was not aware of the tiered ticket pricing for this event. “As published on our website, this funding is ‘towards delivering a year-long series of free creative wānanga and fono for tangata moana communities in Ōtautahi’ and contributes to our strategic outcome that ‘New Zealanders participate in the arts’,” CNZ spokeswoman Dinah Vincent said. “Brown Town’s ticketed events are part of its broader strategy, and no funding was sought or [had] been made available for these activities. “Many events have tiered ticket pricing, named in ways that reflect the organisation, the event and the target audience,” Vincent said. Vincent said CNZ had also received 13 complaints, raising concerns about this specific example of tiered ticketing. “We see that Brown Town has changed the language used to describe the tiers. We were not involved in this change.” A CNZ adviser had contacted Brown Town on Monday. “We will maintain our relationship with Brown Town in line with our current funding agreement and use our usual monitoring and reporting practices. Every recipient of CNZ investment who meets their reporting obligations is eligible to seek further support, and that support is determined via our peer assessment processes. A description of the event encouraged those who bought tickets to "kia pono (be truthful) our tīpuna (ancestors) are watching". Photo / Humanitix In a statement posted to its social media platforms, Brown Town Ōtautahi addressed that some people had taken issue with the tiered pricing structure and described why it was adopted. “Our priority has always been to provide safe and inclusive spaces where Tangata Moana are celebrated, uplifted and empowered ... One way in which we aim to ensure that we provide a safe space is by utilising a tiered pricing structure for our tickets,” one post read. “In line with our kaupapa, we recognise the systematic inequalities that have historically impacted Māori and Pacific communities. “Our ticket structure ensures accessibility for our Pacific and Māori communities and is practised in other countries to encourage indigenous participation in various events. It is designed to remove barriers for indigenous people. “Our mission is to reduce financial barriers for Tangata Moana so that it is easier for our people to access our arts, culture and music. By offering tiered pricing, we hope that Tangata Moana are able to fully engage with the event which is designed to celebrate their heritage and their creativity.” It said staggered ticket structures were not uncommon and discounted tickets were widely offered to various groups including seniors, students, unwaged and locals. “Waves is not about exclusion ... All attendees – regardless of the ticket they purchase – will experience the same vibrant space and enjoy the same vibrant performances. Each attendee will contribute to the collective atmosphere of celebration and unity. “To our allies, we acknowledge that you understand our kaupapa and we appreciate your willingness to support our mahi at an extra cost.” It said that for generations, systemic barriers had excluded Māori and Pacific voices. “This initiative is about reclaiming space, supporting our people and creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to participate, celebrate and feel seen.” Christchurch bar Muy Muy confirmed to the Herald on Wednesday night that it was not initially aware of the pricing structure before agreeing to host the event and that it had spoken to the organisers and they had mutually agreed to discontinue the event. Brown Town said the decision was not made lightly, but “ultimately had to happen out of serious concerns regarding the safety and wellbeing of Muy Muy staff, our artists, our crew and of course, our Tangata Māori”. Benjamin Plummer is an Auckland-based reporter who covers breaking news. He has worked for the Herald since 2022. Thu, 16 Jan 2025 06:58:07 Z /news/entertainment/luke-combs-at-eden-park-all-you-need-to-know-ahead-of-country-superstar-s-two-night-residency-including-how-to-deal-with-no-trains/ /news/entertainment/luke-combs-at-eden-park-all-you-need-to-know-ahead-of-country-superstar-s-two-night-residency-including-how-to-deal-with-no-trains/ Country singer Luke Combs will perform two consecutive shows at Eden Park, starting Friday night.  Auckland’s rail network will be closed, with alternative transport options like buses and rideshares available.  MetService says showers and gusts may be in store for concertgoers despite higher temperatures during the day  Thousands of country music loving Kiwis will descend on Auckland’s Eden Park starting Friday night to witness global superstar Luke Combs become the first artist of his genre to headline at the stadium for two consecutive shows.  But unlike last year’s Coldplay concerts, rail closures mean people will have to look at alternative means of transport that isn’t a train in order to navigate our Honky Tonk Highway network.  If you’re heading along to one of the shows, here’s everything you need to know about the weather, start times, transport and more.  A big night ahead  Beautiful Crazy hitmaker Combs last performed to a sold-out Spark Arena in 2023, and this time he’s taking things to the next level with two stadium shows expected to cover his impressive discography of emotional ballads and boot-scooting bangers.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eden Park (@edenparknz) If his previous world tours are anything to go by, Combs will exude his down-to-earth, rustic charm that made audiences fall in love with him when he hit the scene just over 10 years ago.  With 18 Billboard Country Airplay No.1 hits, multiple platinum certifications and seven Grammy nominations, those in attendance are sure to be treated to a masterclass in country showmanship.  When do the shows start?  Eden Park’s gates open at 4.30pm on Friday and Saturday, with the show expected to start at 5.30pm.  Opening acts Jordan Davis, Mitchell Tenpenny and Lane Pittman will start the proceedings, followed by Combs himself.  For those in the General Admission sections who want to get close to the action, queuing is not permitted until after 9am on each concert day and camping overnight is strictly prohibited.  People are still advised to give themselves plenty of time on the day to get to the show to make sure they don’t miss anything, particularly due to the absence of the rail network.  Eden Park also advised on its website that times were approximate and subject to change.  Transport options - minus trains  Auckland’s rail network will be closed on both Friday and Saturday to enable work to be carried out on the City Rail Link, so the free buses, rideshare options, and bike valets are among some of the other ways to get to the concert.  Rail replacement buses will be operating for people who would normally travel to and from Eden Park on the Western Line.  For those West-bound the stop for leaving Eden Park is located at New North Rd across the road from Morningside Station.  For people who wish to return to the city, the New North Rd bus stop near the intersection of New North Rd and Sandringham Rd is where a bus will leave from.  As with previous Eden Park concerts, there will be also a North Shore (along the Northern Busway) event bus route to and from the stadium, as well as an event bus that picks up and returns from the CBD.  These will be marked at both the stops and at the stadium.  There is also a free park-and-ride service at Alexandra Park which will be available from 4pm each concert day.  Rideshare services and drop-off areas are located at the Dominion Rd end of Bellwood Ave and Morningside Drive.  Road closures and restrictions on public parking in the streets surrounding Eden Park will also be in place, with the Eden Park website advising that parking on the outskirts might mean about a 15-minute walk.  Mobility parking on Cricket Ave is accessible via Walters Rd for ticketholders with mobility parking permits. This will be on a first-come, first-served basis.  If people wish to leave their Fast Car at home, they can always take an Auckland Transport regular, special event or rail replacement bus which are free for all ticketholders.  Last time he was here, Luke Combs headed out for a hunt with New Zealand Safaris ahead of his Auckland show. Photo / New Zealand Safaris, Facebook  Health, safety and restricted items  There are no cloaking or storage facilities available for the Luke Combs gigs, so Eden Park recommends leaving bags larger than A4 size and all restricted/prohibited items at home.  Prohibited items include umbrellas, professional cameras and portable seats. Signs no larger than 40cm x 50cm will be allowed in provided they don’t have poles or feature political content.  People in the seated section of the stadium are allowed to bring in a one litre drinking container that can be refilled at one of 18 water stations. Those in GA cannot bring their own containers, but there will be water available.  While those under 14-year-old may be Growin Up, they must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the gig.  Eden Park is also a smoke and vape-free venue, and drugs and external alcohol are strictly prohibited.  Combs says beer never broke his heart, but if you’re trying to buy one with cash, you’re out of luck.  Eden Park is a cashless venue, so all food, drink and merchandise must be paid for by contactless payment means.  Anyone with security or health concerns can text 2266 with their query or see a staff member on both nights. Sensory health stations are also available on Level 3 of the Samsung Stand.  Eden Park in July 2023. The stadium can now host up to 12 concerts a year, with Luke Combs' two nights being the first of 2025. Photo / Supplied  Weather  In the case of the two nights, there’s hope that when it rains it doesn’t pour.  But just in case, it’s probably worth packing a poncho or jacket if you’re not seated undercover.  MetService meteorologist Surprise Mhlongo said an easterly flow is expected to affect Auckland on Friday and Saturday, bringing in partly cloudy conditions with the chance of a shower.  Despite potential showers, it’s looking like temperatures will be relatively high and a slight breeze is also expected.  “The easterlies might be gusty at times from Friday noon. The expected maximum temperature for both days in 24C,” Mhlongo said.  As per usual, people best check the forecast on the day to get the most up-to-date readings.  Mitchell Hageman joined the Herald’s entertainment and lifestyle team in 2024. He previously worked as a multimedia journalist for Hawke’s Bay Today.  Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:08:25 Z /news/entertainment/age-restricted-library-books-you-might-need-your-id-to-borrow-from-auckland-s-libraries/ /news/entertainment/age-restricted-library-books-you-might-need-your-id-to-borrow-from-auckland-s-libraries/ From bawdy rugby songs to harrowing descriptions of abuse and trauma, Mitchell Hageman looks at a number of age-restricted books that pushed the boundaries in New Zealand and discovers how our libraries and lawmakers help prevent harm to vulnerable readers. Warning: This story discusses sexual assault. A list of helplines is available at the bottom of the page. Tucked away out the back of the Auckland Central Library is a selection of 29 books that, in the eyes of New Zealand Office of Film and Literature Classification (NZOFLC) moderators, could “cause injury to the public good” if not restricted to those over a certain age. R18, R16, and R13 are labels you often see at the cinema, though rarely in your local bookstore or library. But just like movies, books are subject to the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993. The NZOFLC also classifies books. Photo / Supplied, NZOFLC The act sees the NZOFLC and our Chief Censor Caroline Flora weigh up potential harms with New Zealanders’ rights to freedom of expression. “Book bans and restrictions in New Zealand are rare, but when they’re applied, it’s about balancing the protection of readers, especially young people, with the importance of freedom of expression,” Flora said. “Books typically don’t carry content warnings or age restrictions, which makes it important to understand what you’re picking up, especially if you’re exploring a new genre or sharing it with others.” New Zealand's Chief Censor Caroline Flora. Age restrictions set by the NZOFLC are also legally enforced by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). “Anybody who knowingly supplies, distributes, exhibits or displays a restricted publication to any person who does not meet the age criteria is committing an offence and can receive up to three months' imprisonment or a fine not exceeding $10,000,” the DIA website reads. Here are some of the books held in the restricted section, and why they were put there: American Psycho - Bret Easton Ellis (1991, R18) American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis. Photo / Supplied Many will know of this title from the smash hit cult classic film starring Christian Bale, and how it sparked controversy for its graphic depictions of violence and sadism. The film was slapped with an R18 rating, but it could surprise people to know that the book, which is just as graphic in nature, also received an age restriction. Originally classified by NZOFLC predecessor the Indecent Publications Tribunal (IPT) in December 1991 as indecent in the hands of persons under the age of 18 years under the Indecent Publications Act 1963, the book version of American Psycho follows the first-person musings of 26-year-old New York investment banker and secret serial killer Patrick Bateman. It was submitted in 2014 by Auckland Libraries under s42 of the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993 for a reconsideration because of the time that had elapsed since that initial decision. “The dominant effect of the book is twofold. The first is explicit descriptions of numerous tortures and murders, the victims include men, women, children and animals,” the NZOFLC decision reads. Known for its satirical tone, the book includes explicit descriptions of extreme violence, sexual violence, necrophilia and cannibalism as Bateman explores his twisted fantasies. “A sophisticated knowledge of how satire works is necessary to read that intention into this book. Children and teenagers are less likely to have this knowledge, and it is more likely they will read the text literally.” The NZOFLC decision said such material would likely have a negative impact on young persons’ mental wellbeing and their developing worldviews. “At a minimum it will inure them to such material; at worst it will cause an attitudinal shift, normalising such conduct, and to some extent (given the elite and sophisticated setting), glamorising it. “Adults may find the descriptions upsetting but have the ability to contextualise the material as sophisticated satire, in a way younger readers will be less able to.” The decision stated that, in the end, there were “no convincing reasons” to lower the existing restriction despite the time that had passed since the book’s publication and original classification. Ordeal - Linda Lovelace with Mike McGrady (1980, R18) Ordeal by Linda Lovelace. Photo / Supplied This no-holds-barred autobiography smashed sales records when it was released but also courted controversy due to its “harrowing account of extreme physical and sexual abuse and exploitation”. Written by Deep Throat star Linda Lovelace and co-author Mike McGrady, the book follows her experiences in the sex industry in the 70s. In her own words, Lovelace delves into both her successful career in porn as well as the harrowing secret life of rape and abuse she suffered at the hands of her husband Chuck Traynor. Traynor, who also managed and married porn actress Marilyn Chambers, used Lovelace for his own financial success by forcing her into pornography and prostitution. Throughout the book, Lovelace is heavily critical of the porn industry and frames her story as a cautionary tale. It was submitted by Auckland Libraries for reconsideration of its classification in 2015 after retaining an R18 from the IPT since the 80s for “references to perverse sexual practices”. The NZOFLC found that the book “would disturb and shock most readers due to the depth and depravity of the abuse [Lovelace] suffered,” hence keeping its R18 rating. “It is written for adults. Many adults would find the material confronting and shocking, but are likely to be able to contextualise this account of abuse and sexual exploitation,” an official NZOFLC decision read. Why Was He Born So Beautiful and Other Rugby Songs - Various (1967, R13) Why Was He Born So Beautiful and Other Rugby Songs was classified as indecent in 1968. This collection of songs in prose style was classified by the IPT as indecent and fully banned in 1968. It is described in an NZOFLC decision as a collection of “bawdy” and “sexually crude” songs popular among rugby union players at the time. “Some [songs] are diverting; many are crudely indecent,” an IPT decision of the time said. “The question for the tribunal is not whether footballers should amuse themselves by bawling these songs off the field, but whether their text should be given a wider circulation in what may be called the decent licence of print; and the tribunal decides that it should not.” Reclassified in 2021 as restricted to people 13 years and over, the book contains descriptions of “adult sexual material, extreme illegal sexual practices and homophobic and misogynistic attitudes”. Prefaced by British humorist Michael Green, it was submitted for reclassification by Auckland Libraries, who said the book “no longer merits censorship, in line with current social mores”. According to the NZOFLC decision, the book received its new R13 rating because “older readers are likely to understand that there has been a shift in societal attitudes over the past 52 years” and would view the book as an outdated product of its time. Last Exit To Brooklyn - Hubert Selby Jr (1964, R16) Last Exit to Brooklyn by Hubert Selby jnr. Photo / Supplied Hubert Selby jnr’s 1964 bold depiction of New York City life in the 50s debuted to high praise from the literary community but caused significant controversy due to its style and graphic descriptions of sexual violence, drug use and offensive language. It was so controversial in fact, that the IPT classified Last Exit to Brooklyn twice, first as “indecent except in the hands of adults engaged in work or research in sociological and related fields” in 1967 and then “indecent in the hands of persons under the age of 18 years” in 1971. “The publication has considerable literary, social and cultural importance as one of the early transgressive works of the counterculture movement of the 1960s,” a 2014 decision from the NZOFLC said. It is described as an episodic narrative, divided into six parts that can be read separately. It uses idiosyncratic grammar and prose that reflect the nature and vernacular of the characters. “The publication contains extensive descriptions to do with sex and violence, most of which are degrading and demeaning. “There are also incidents of drug use. The narrative is grim, capturing human despair and lack of hope.” In 2014, enough time had elapsed for a classification reconsideration owing to changes in societal norms and attitudes While the NZOFLC said there was a need for a reader to have “some worldliness, some sophistication in thinking” to grapple with the book’s content, they believed 16-year-olds would be mature enough to contextualise what they read and reclassified the book as R16. “The book’s content is likely to injure children and younger teenagers who are still developing the concepts, knowledge and maturity needed to make sense of the material, particularly given the lack of resolve and hope that surrounds the characters,” the decision read. Numb: Diary of a War Correspondent - Anonymous, Alan Buckby* (2015, R18) Numb: Diary of a War Correspondent by Alan Bucky/Anonymous. Photo / Supplied This previously unrestricted book about a journalist who allegedly committed sickening acts in war zones was submitted for classification to the NZOFLC by a member of the public who was angered by its contents. Numb: Diary of a War Correspondent, purports to be a ghost-written memoir based on the posthumously discovered private journals of a war correspondent “Alan Buckby”. Blurring the lines between fiction and reality, the book tells the story of Buckby’s double life as a respected war correspondent and family man, but also a violent psychopath. “Buckby” supposedly spent his career in conflict zones including Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Iraq, perpetrating horrific crimes including rape, murder and necrophilia. While the ghost writer claims the book is based on real events, doubts have been cast on whether it is actually true due to historical inconsistencies and writing style. “The book contains descriptions of extreme violence, sexual violence, sexual exploitation of a young person, and necrophilia which younger readers are likely to find shocking and disturbing,” an NZOFLC decision read. “The material is likely to cause a harmful attitudinal shift towards sexuality in impressionable younger readers who are still in the process of forming sexual attitudes and behaviours.” The decision also took into account the style of the book when giving it a classification. “The interpretive work required of the reader means that the written word does not have the same shocking explicitness or immediacy as visual media. “In the hands of its intended adult readership, the book may well be upsetting, however, adults are presumed to have the necessary maturity to contextualise this material and critically evaluate it.” A history of banned and classified publications There is still a total of 1314 banned books, magazines and comics in Aotearoa. The vast majority of these classifications (1214) were made by the IPT, which was replaced by the NZOFLC in 1994. Ninety-seven of these books were banned by the Classification Office, and three were banned by the Film and Literature Board of Review. Flora said that under Section 42 of the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993, anyone can apply to the Chief Censor for leave to have any previously classified publication reconsidered. “Whether leave is granted usually depends on factors such as the age of the publication, how widely available it is, and its artistic, cultural or other merit or value,” she said. Classifying also takes into account the change in societal attitudes. “From late 2022 to early 2024, we worked with members of the community to revisit publications banned before the Homosexual Law Reform Act 1986,” Flora said of a recent NZOFLC project. “Many were reclassified as unrestricted, including 1980s rainbow lifestyle magazines showcasing advertisements and event information. None of the publications reviewed remain banned.” Under the act, an application for reconsideration can only be made if a classification has been made three or more years ago unless the publication has been substantially altered since its classification, or if there are special circumstances. What happens when you borrow a restricted book? According to Auckland Council Libraries, their restricted titles are held at the Auckland Central City Library, but customers can also request items for pick-up at other branches. The legally classified books are held behind the desk to ensure underage people can’t access them. “Only customers who are at or above the age restriction can view or borrow restricted items. Customers may be required to show identification,” Auckland Libraries told the Herald. Many of the titles are in hot demand. Auckland Libraries said that in the previous financial year (July 2023-June 2024) there were 128 checkouts from the restricted collection. “All books designated as restricted items must have an official ratings label supplied by the Film and Video Labelling Body of New Zealand. “At Auckland Council Libraries, restricted titles also have a spine label that identifies them as part of the ‘Desk copy (restricted)’ collection”. Censored: Ted Dawe's Into The River briefly had an R14 rating. In line with the libraries’ commitment to “the principle of freedom of access to information,” it has on occasion submitted titles for reclassification or review, with the aim of improving customer access to material. “Auckland Council Libraries is committed to the principle of freedom of access to information. We collect and make available a wide range of materials, representing varying points of view. “These may include controversial or unconventional ideas and subjects. We do not censor our collections based on ideological, political, or religious views or pressures”. In 2014, Auckland Libraries appealed an R14 classification of the book Into the River, as many who were eligible to read the book were struggling to access it. “We have occasionally sought a review where titles were classified or censored decades ago and the decision no longer aligns with societal views and norms”. Submitting a book for classification Any member of the public can apply for leave to have a book classified should they feel it is warranted. “If you think a previously banned book should be reconsidered or believe a book needs classification, you can contact us,” Flora said. The act requires the NZOFLC to charge a fee once a reconsideration application has been granted. Auckland Libraries said it appreciated and took seriously all feedback received from customers about the material it held. “If a customer complains about a title, we carefully assess it to ensure it is held in an age-appropriate collection. “We inform customers that they can submit a title to the Classification Office directly if they believe it should be restricted or banned.” Auckland Libraries said it also makes sure it puts unrestricted material (those without legal restrictions) in age-appropriate sections. Further information about censorship decisions, applying for leave or any other related to classification can be found at the NZOFLC website. Auckland Libraries’ list of restricted books American Psycho / Bret Easton Ellis, introduction by Irvine Welsh. (Auckland Libraries holds this title in book and audiobook format) - R18 Astride: An erotic journey of daydreams and delicious delights / Christine Leov Lealand - R18 Avocado: An erotic adventure of spirit and sensuality / Christine Leov Lealand -R18 Beauty’s Release / Roquelaure, A. N - R16 Cannabis / Jonathon Green - R18 Chobits. [Volume 2 of 8] [graphic novel] / Clamp [translator, Shirley Kubo English adaption, Jake Forbes] - R13 Chobits. Volume 1 of 8 [graphic novel] / story and art by Clamp [translator, Shirley Kubo English adaptation, Jake Forbes] - R13 Delta of Venus / by Anais Nin - R16 Down under the plum trees / Felicity Tuohy, Michael Murphy - R16 Fanny Hill, or, Memoirs of a woman of pleasure / John Cleland introduction by Gary Gautier notes by Audrey Bilger - R18 Fiona’s Fate / by Fredrica Alleyn - R18 Ghost World: a screenplay / by Daniel Clowes and Terry Zwigoff – R16 Ghost World [graphic novel] / Daniel Clowes - R16 Human diastrophism [graphic novel] / Gilbert Hernandez - R16 Justine, or The misfortunes of virtue / The Marquis de Sade translated by John Phillips - R18 Last Exit to Brooklyn / Hubert Selby, Jr - R16 Lost Girls [graphic novel] / by Alan Moore and Melinda Gebbie with letters by Todd Klein - R18 Men in Love / Nancy Friday - R18 Numb: Diary of a war correspondent / Anonymous - R18 Ordeal / by Linda Lovelace with Mike McGrady - R18 Quintessence : erotic adventures of fantasy & desire / Christine Leov Lealand - R18 See you next Tuesday [graphic novel] / Jane Mai - R16 Story of O / Pauline Reage translated from the French by Sabine d’Estree - R16 Stripped Bare: the body revealed in contemporary art / edited by Marianne Karabelnik works from the Thomas Koerfer Collection - R18 The big book of urban legends [graphic novel]: adapted from the works of Jan Harold Brunvand / by Robert Loren Fleming and Robert F. Boyd, Jr - R16 The league of extraordinary gentlemen. Volume 2 [graphic novel] / presented by co-creators Alan Moore, writer Kevin O’Neill, artist with the assistance of Ben Dimagmaliw, colourist William Oakley, letterer - R13 The long hard road out of hell / Marilyn Manson with Neil Strauss - R18 The new joy of sex / Alex Comfort, Susan Quilliam - R16 Why was he born so beautiful and other rugby songs / with a preface by Michael Green - R13 Where to get help: If it’s an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111. If you’ve ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7: Call 0800 044 334 Text 4334 Email support@safetotalk.nz For more info or to web chat visit safetotalk.nz Alternatively contact your local police station. If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it’s not your fault. Mitchell Hageman joined the Herald’s entertainment and lifestyle team in 2024. He previously worked as a multimedia journalist for Hawke’s Bay Today. Wed, 15 Jan 2025 04:55:50 Z /news/entertainment/friends-star-david-schwimmer-wishes-he-enjoyed-the-fame-more-when-he-was-younger/ /news/entertainment/friends-star-david-schwimmer-wishes-he-enjoyed-the-fame-more-when-he-was-younger/ David Schwimmer - who starred as Ross Geller in the hit TV sitcom Friends - revealed upon reflection that he wished he embraced his fame more when he was younger while working at the height of his career. During an exclusive interview with the New York Post for the promotion of his new series, Goosebumps: The Vanishing, Schwimmer offered his younger self advice for being in the public eye, telling the outlet: “I would maybe say enjoy it more.” “Enjoy the ride a little more,” Schwimmer said. “The thing about being a public figure at a young age is, for me, it was quite scary actually at that time of my life.” He recalled the cast being followed by paparazzi and fans in cars wherever they went, highlighting the loss of privacy they all felt as they climbed the ranks in Hollywood. Schwimmer said these events were “scary at the time to younger actors”, but in retrospect, he believes his younger self needed to “enjoy the whole thing more”. Schwimmer, 58, began filming the cult comedy show in 1994 when he was 27, playing one of the show’s main characters for a decade before filming wrapped up in 2004 after 10 seasons. The cast of hit 90s sitcom Friends - Courteney Cox (left), Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, the late Matthew Perry, Jennifer Aniston and David Schwimmer. As he moved on to other projects following Friends, Schwimmer took on lead roles in the Madagascar film franchise and in American Crime Story, where he portrayed O.J. Simpson’s lawyer Robert Kardashian. Preparing for the release of Goosebumps: The Vanishing - in which Schwimmer plays an ex-husband and father to twins Cece and Devin - he said younger actors need to be ready to “put in the work”. “Don’t get lazy,” Schwimmer told the Post. “Luckily these young actors on this show - they’re just so naturally talented, great instincts. They did the work. They knew their stuff.” Schwimmer joined the cast of Friends alongside five other aspiring actors, who went on to become household names amid the show’s success. Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and the late Matthew Perry - who died in October 2023 from the “acute effects” of ketamine at his LA home - formed the main cast over the show’s 10 seasons. Working on the new season of Goosebumps with a lot of young actors, Schwimmer told GQ he notices a major difference in how Gen Z work on set with technology readily available to them, compared to when he was their age. “The interesting thing was what happens off camera is that generation gap in that cut is called, everyone goes to their chairs or whatever, and you can, at any given point, you’ll see the six or seven young actors sitting in a row or next to each other all on their phones or shooting Instagram or TikTok,” he told the outlet. “When I was their age on set, that was the time that you’d actually get to know people. You’d talk to other actors or in my case, I always wanted to direct, so I would use that time to talk to the crew, get to know what every person does on set and what their job is and what their background is.” David Schwimmer said experiencing fame at a young age was "quite scary". Photo / Getty Images Schwimmer isn’t the only Friends cast member who has spoken out about the perils of fame while starring in Friends. LeBlanc - who played Joey in the hit sitcom - spoke with The Mirror in 2016 about how he dealt with burnout and bouts of depression following the end of the show. A Friends spin-off called Joey ran for two seasons but was cancelled in 2006, and LeBlanc told the outlet that he “barely left the house” in the years following. “I was burnt out. I wanted to not have a schedule, not be somewhere,” LeBlanc said. He added he was “in a position to do that,” given the actors were paid US$1 million ($1.8m) per episode towards the end of the show. “My agent was bummed. Most actors call their agents and say, ‘What’s going on?‘. I’d call mine and say, ‘Please lose my number for a few years’. It was a very dark time. I almost had a nervous breakdown,” the actor, who is 57, told The Mirror. The group of six came back together in 2021 for a reunion special hosted by James Corden, visiting the show’s iconic sets and meeting with celebrities and special guests from old episodes. Kudrow, who played Phoebe Buffay, revealed in December last year that after the show ended in 2004, the cast had only been in the same room together once before they reunited for the 2021 special. Speaking on Jesse Tyler Ferguson’s Dinner on Me podcast, Kudrow said: “It [the reunion special] was so good.” ”We’d only had dinner, the six of us, once before since the show ended,“ she explained, revealing it coincided around the 10-year anniversary of the end of Friends. “It was like we didn’t miss a beat. Just us at someone’s house and had dinner and, like, didn’t miss a beat,” Kudrow added. Wed, 15 Jan 2025 01:04:01 Z /news/entertainment/uk-comedian-and-actor-tony-slattery-best-known-for-whose-line-is-it-anyway-dies-aged-65/ /news/entertainment/uk-comedian-and-actor-tony-slattery-best-known-for-whose-line-is-it-anyway-dies-aged-65/ Actor and comedian Tony Slattery, a British screen stalwart famous for his improv skills on the popular show Whose Line Is It Anyway? has died.  The 65-year-old suffered a heart attack on Sunday (local time) and did not recover, his partner Mark Michael Hutchinson told BBC 九一星空无限.  “It is with great sadness we must announce actor and comedian Tony Slattery, aged 65, has passed away today, Tuesday morning,” he said.  Slattery was a consistent presence on Whose Line Is It Anyway? from 1988 to 1995.  He also starred in his own improvisational comedy series, S&M, in 1991 alongside fellow comedian Mike McShane, and took on a dramatic role in the popular Neil Jordan thriller The Crying Game (1992).  Tony Slattery had been open about his struggles with mental health and drug use in the past. Photo / Getty Images  Slattery, who took a hiatus after leaving Whose Line Is It Anyway, had been open about his struggles with drug use, mental health and bipolar disorder in the past.  In an interview with the Guardian in 2003, the actor revealed that after a 1996 “breakdown” he got to a stage where he didn’t “open any bills, or wash”.  “I have very strong recollections of behavioural disinhibition, ungovernable, compulsive, socially unacceptable behaviour, irrationality,“ he said.  “But then that would suddenly flip, and negative symptoms would replace, like utter social withdrawal, isolationism, mutinous ... my symptoms were florid and uncontrollable and profoundly disordered.”  He also noted that he struggled with cocaine and alcohol addiction, stemming from childhood trauma as discussed in his 2020 documentary What’s the Matter with Tony Slattery?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stephen Fry (@stephenfryactually) Close friend and fellow comedian Sir Stephen Fry, whom Slattery opened up to for his film The Secret Life of the Manic Depressive, paid tribute to his friend on social media.  “So very sad to have lost the wonderful Tony Slattery, just about the gentlest, sweetest soul I ever knew. Not to mention a screamingly funny and deeply talented wit and clown,” he said.  “A cruel irony that fate should snatch him from us just as he had really begun to emerge from his lifelong battle with so many dark demons.”  Fry also sent his “love and condolences” to Hutchinson, whom he described as Slattery’s ”staunch, devoted life partner of almost 40 years”.  Born on November 9, 1959, in Stonebridge, North London, Slattery met Fry while studying at the University of Cambridge.  Other comedians who paid tribute to Slattery included his Whose Line co-star Josie Lawrence and fellow comics Richard K Herring, Al Murray and Absolutely Fabulous actress and comedian Helen Lederer.  “My best friend in laughter, wit, love, absurdity, being my best man (twice), we adored you - what will we do now,” Lederer said.  Tue, 14 Jan 2025 22:16:26 Z /news/entertainment/moana-lawsuit-animator-buck-woodall-accuses-disney-of-copying-his-ideas-in-17-billion-claim/ /news/entertainment/moana-lawsuit-animator-buck-woodall-accuses-disney-of-copying-his-ideas-in-17-billion-claim/ The Walt Disney Company is facing a multibillion-dollar lawsuit after claims of plagiarism were mounted against its smash-hit animated movies Moana(2016) and Moana 2 (2024). Animator Buck Woodall filed the suit in California on Friday (US time), seeking damages of at least US$10 billion ($17.9b) for the fact Disney allegedly stole elements of a screenplay he wrote in the early 2000s. Titled Bucky, Woodall’s script allegedly includes details similar to the Moana franchise, including a plot about a teenager who defies her parents and embarks on a voyage across Polynesian waters to save their island. The lawsuit, as reported by Sky 九一星空无限, also cited alleged similarities in plot and story devices between Bucky and Moana 2. Moana and Maui from the Disney movie Moana (2016). Image / Disney A scene in which the main characters are sucked into a “perilous whirlpool-like oceanic portal” is something Woodall said, “could not possibly have been developed by chance or without malicious intentions”. In his suit, Woodall goes on to explain he produced a screenplay and trailer for Bucky and shared details of the project with Jenny Marchick, former Mandeville Films director of development, as early as 2003. Marchick, who is now DreamWorks Animation’s head of development for features, had a first-look deal with Disney through Mandeville, and after asking Woodall for production material, assured she could get Bucky green-lit. “Disney’s Moana was produced in the wake of Woodall’s delivery to the defendants of virtually all constituent parts necessary for its development and production after more than 17 years of inspiration and work on his animated film project,” the lawsuit claims. In countering Woodall’s argument, Disney is said to have put forth materials to prove the originality of the Moana movies. According to Decider, Moana director Ron Clements said in a court declaration that the film was “not inspired by or based in any way on [Woodall] or his Bucky project, which I learned of for the first time after this lawsuit was filed”. Sky 九一星空无限 also reported Woodall had already tried to sue Disney over Moana once, but US district judge Consuelo Marshall ruled in November he had tried to sue too late over the 2016 film. The release of Moana 2, which debuted to US$224.2 million ($402m) at the box office, gave him the opportunity to relaunch his claims. The legal action comes right in the middle of awards season, with Moana 2 hotly tipped as a favourite for best animated film at the Oscars. Tue, 14 Jan 2025 03:18:18 Z /news/entertainment/are-kiwis-protected-if-expensive-concerts-are-cancelled/ /news/entertainment/are-kiwis-protected-if-expensive-concerts-are-cancelled/ By Krystal Gibbens of RNZ Concert-goers have seen a spate of concerts and festivals being cancelled or changed around the country in the last few months. Late last year it was confirmed Bay Dreams, once the country’s biggest music festival, will not go ahead in 2025. Last year summer music festival Nest Fest was also cancelled after four artists pulled out. So what are your rights if a concert or festival is cancelled? Consumer NZ said if an event you had purchased tickets to was cancelled you were entitled to a refund. Nest Fest was cancelled last year after the company behind it collapsed. Consumer NZ senior investigative writer Chris Schulz said the Fair Trading Act also covered date or headliner changes. Last year furious customers demanded refunds from Eden Fest in Auckland after some of its headliners pulled out. Schulz said Consumer considered this a change to the contract between buyer and seller. “We believe that if you’ve bought a ticket to a show to like a festival saying there’s a bunch of acts and you’ve bought it for the main act, the headliner, and that headliner drops out, then you are entitled to a refund.” Meanwhile in October last year those travelling to rapper Travis Scott were hit with exorbitant travel and accommodation costs after the event organiser brought the concert forward a day just a week out from the Eden Park concert. Juicy Fest also cancelled its New Zealand locations after not being able to obtain the licences it needed. Although the tickets were covered under the Fair Trading Act, Consumer NZ said whether people were entitled to travel and accommodation costs depended on the seller’s liability under the Consumers Guarantees Act. Last year, Travis Scott's Eden Park show was moved forward a day just a week out from the concert. Photo / Getty Images “If they’ve breached one of the guarantees, you may be entitled to claim for any reasonably foreseeable consequential losses. If not, a seller probably isn’t required to compensate you for other costs like accommodation or airfares,” Consumer advises on its website. People could also buy travel insurance or ticket cover from vendors such as Ticketmaster and Ticketek. Schulz said ticket cover could be a handy way to cover you in the event of an emergency. He said with concert tickets also going on sale well in advance of the event it could also provide some reassurance. “A lot can happen in a year,” he said. “If you’re gonna be moving or if you’re worried about something like that happening, just check and see if that’s covered.” But he said people did need to read the terms and conditions closely to ensure they were covered for what they thought they were. - RNZ Sun, 12 Jan 2025 03:05:20 Z /news/entertainment/netflix-production-of-east-of-eden-turns-heads-in-%C5%8Damaru-and-dunedin/ /news/entertainment/netflix-production-of-east-of-eden-turns-heads-in-%C5%8Damaru-and-dunedin/ A classic of American literature is being adapted into a Netflix series, starring Florence Pugh, and with parts of New Zealand as its backdrop. The seven-part series East of Eden, based on John Steinbeck’s 1952 novel and set in the Salinas Valley in California, is being filmed in New Zealand. The production filmed in parts of Auckland throughout last year, with shooting in taking place in Dunedin and Ōamaru this month. The novel follows two intertwined families, the Trasks and the Hamiltons, whose destinies mirror the biblical story of Cain and Abel. Ōamaru's Victorian Precinct. The town is currently being transformed for Netflix's adaption of John Steinbeck's novel East of Eden. Photo / Thomas Bywater. The novel was first adapted as a film in 1955, starring James Dean. Netflix’s production stars English actress Pugh as the lead character Cathy Ames, alongside Mike Faist, Christopher Abbott, and Ciarán Hinds. The series will be directed by Zoe Kazan, whose grandfather Elia Kazan directed the 1955 adaptation. Several of Ōamaru’s streets have been dressed up for the series, with 70 trucks and trailers supporting the large crew of 500 people involved, many of whom are local workers. Key locations, including the Harbourside, Scottish Hall, and Ōamaru Squash and Badminton Club. The production has caused some disruptions, with road closures on Harbour, Humber, and Tyne streets, as well as Service Lane, throughout a 12-day period this month. The coastal Otago town has been utilised as the backdrop for many Hollywood productions before, including Jane Campion's The Power of the Dog. Photo / File The crew is also set to film in Dunedin, where filming will take over parts of the city centre on four consecutive Sundays, weather permitting, with an application for road closures submitted to the Dunedin City Council. Ōamaru Steam and Rail Society General manager Harry Andrew said some members of the volunteer group were assisting with the production around the railway. “They came to us about doing the [series] and asked what we could provide. We had to get a unit from Ferrymead because the one we had wasn’t old enough for the production. “It’s been great to work with them ... We had good weather today, and they’re in the station right now putting in a new platform and painting the station to reflect the era. A young lady is inside painting the wagon to make it fit the series.” Andrews said the money he earned from the production went straight back to the Steam and Rail Society. “The society is making money, and we’re getting the station painted for free. It takes the load off us. If it’snot quite how we want it, they’ll fix it. “I hope it brings in more tourists. It’s great for the railway and the town. “This is my third movie with the railway. It’s a good deal. They pay for what they need, and we don’t lose out. “Tourism is the real winner here.” Waitaki District Mayor Gary Kircher said the production was a major step up from previous ones in the area. He said many residents had been surprised by the scale of it. “It’s something the public has welcomed and it’s adding a lot of interest to the area. A lot of people are also taking advantage of playing parts as extras.” He said there had been extensive work around Harbour St, where a lot of buildings were used for exterior and interior shots. “Some of them have been given makeovers. Ōamaru Steam and Rail, the volunteer-run recreational railway, has got their steam train running, and they’ve had a couple of carriages done up.” He said the makeover emphasised the impact that a production with a budget of this scale could have despite being in town for only short period. “The authenticity of the source material, East of Eden, adds to the production. It’s a classic novel, and when people see what has been done with other series that come from important novels, it gives credibility to the production." Feedback from the crew regarding filming in Ōamaru had been positive, Kircher said. “One of the things that’s been acknowledged is the co-operation of locals. This really emphasises the benefits that people see from this type of activity. It’s great for the economy, the community, and our heritage.” The production is set to continue filming in the Auckland suburb of Devonport in February. A letter sent to Devonport residents advising them of road closures and parking restrictions was seen by the Herald. It told residents, “We intend to film around a couple of houses, in the Devonport Domain and film on Cheltenham Road between Oxford Terrace and Takarunga Rd. “As this story is set between the late 1800s and early 1900s we don’t wish to see any modern vehicles and would like to cover large sections of the road (including some of Oxford Tce and Tainui Rd) and footpaths with gravel.” Steinbeck, who also penned the classic novels Grapes of Wrath and Of Mice and Men, considered East of Eden to be his ‘magnum opus’. Garth Davis will direct the first four episodes, while Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre will direct the final three episodes. The series is set to be released on Netflix in early 2026. Ben Tomsett is a Multimedia Journalist for the New Zealand Herald, based in Dunedin. Sun, 12 Jan 2025 01:19:26 Z /news/entertainment/the-troubled-child-stars-of-yesteryear-what-happened-to-them-and-where-are-they-now/ /news/entertainment/the-troubled-child-stars-of-yesteryear-what-happened-to-them-and-where-are-they-now/ Warning: This story contains references to self-harm, domestic violence, and addiction. Two former child stars have made headlines this week, and they’re among many who have grappled with the challenges of fame. Hollywood is no stranger to tragic stories and cautionary tales of once-promising child actors. Former stars have made headlines this week, with Star Wars actor Jake Lloyd giving an update after his year-and-a-half long stay at a mental health facility following a “psychotic break”, and 90s Home Improvement star Zachery Ty Bryan arrested on charges of second-degree domestic violence. Many other former child stars have spoken out about their time in the industry and reflected on the challenges faced as they grew older under the spotlight. Ewan McGregor, Liam Neeson, Jake Lloyd, and Kenny Baker in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999). Photo / Lucasfilm Ltd Demi Lovato — who got her start on Barney & Friends at 10 - has openly talked about her struggles with early fame, revealing in Hulu series Child Star that much of it came down to how she felt about herself as she grew. “I looked at my success as my self-worth,” she said. “I had a really hard time differentiating the two, and I dealt with a lot of need for external validation.” She also noted the gruelling hours and stress, saying addiction, self-harm, mental health issues began to took hold as the pressures of work increased. Conversely, Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood notably talked about how nurturement during his early acting days helped him transition into adulthood. A critically acclaimed child actor by age 9, Wood told Q he was “never really wooed by the dark aspects of the industry”, and that his success and lack of trauma came from how his mother raised him and handled his early career. Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood on Lambton Quay during the parade for the world premiere of Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. Photo / Mark Mitchell Being in adult spaces, working long hours, and easy access to narcotics and alcohol are just some of the things Child Star interviewees have said caused them to struggle as they grew older. Besides general labour laws, there are no federal law protecting child actors in the USA, but some states laws require safeguards like chaperones and work hour restrictions for those under 18. Lloyd, Ty Bryan and Lovato are far from alone, with many child stars struggling as they reached adulthood. Orlando Brown (That’s So Raven) Former Disney star Orlando Brown appeared on Dr Phil for an intervention in 2019. Photo / Getty, Dr Phil. Youtube Gaining his first role aged 8 in the Marlon Wayans comedy Major Payne (1995), Los Angeles-born Orlando Brown was thrust into the limelight of Tinseltown with a promising career in his sights. His major break came when he secured the role of Raven Baxter’s friend Eddie Thomas in the hit sitcom That’s So Raven, a role he played until 2007. Brown’s legal troubles came thick and fast after the cancellation of the sitcom and his career pivot into the music business at 20, starting with marijuana possession in 2007 and continuing to as early as 2023 when he faced domestic violence charges. Other arrests cover everything from burglary, felony drug possession and assault. Eventually, things got to a point where Brown’s friend and manager, Solomon Barron, took Brown on the Dr. Phil show in 2019 for an “intervention”. Brown explained on the show about his past experiences with alcohol and drugs, including marijuana and crystal meth, and how they impacted his behaviour. “Just the influence and the demons that come with that drug kind of took over,” he told host Phil McGraw. “I just found myself in a dark place because I couldn’t really find everybody. It’s kinda like looking for your keys, when you stop looking, they’re right there type of deal”. Brown continues to take on small acting roles today despite his legal troubles and said in recent interviews that he wanted to focus on his family. Amanda Bynes (All That and its spin-off series The Amanda Show) Amanda Bynes has struggled to come to grips with fame during her adulthood. Photo / Supplied Nickelodeon gave California-born Amanda Bynes her big break in the late 90s, helped by the guidance of controversial television producer Dan Schneider, who has been accused of fostering an unsafe work environment. While Bynes enjoyed major success in her childhood and teens with myriad movie hits like She’s The Man and Hairspray, she slowly fell victim to the stresses and pressure of the industry, eventually taking a hiatus in 2010. “Being an actress isn’t as fun as it may seem,” the Big Fat Liar star tweeted while announcing her hiatus. While enrolled in university, legal troubles and personal issues saw her constantly make headlines. A 2012 DUI charge saw Bynes sentenced to three years of probation in exchange for dismissal, but in 2013, she was charged with reckless endangerment and marijuana possession in an incident where she allegedly threw a bong out of a 36-storey apartment building. Besides run-ins with the law and her open admissions of substance abuse, Bynes has also faced a harrowing battle with mental health. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression in 2014, the actress told her X/Twitter fans she was “seeing my psychologist and psychiatrist weekly”. She was also placed in a conservatorship under her parents, Lynn and Rick Bynes, in 2013, following her substance abuse issues and legal troubles. As of today, Bynes' conservatorship has ended, and she remains alcohol and drug-free but still receives follow-up outpatient treatment after a number of previous self-harm-related incidents. Edward Furlong (Terminator 2: Judgement Day) Terminator star Edward Furlong has been in and out of rehab since the early 2000s. Photo / Getty Images Starring alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger at just 13, Edward Furlong won both Saturn and MTV Movie Awards for his performance as John Connor in James Cameron’s 1991 Terminator sequel. While he enjoyed a string of moderate success in the 90s, his career slowly declined after 2000. He visited rehab for the first time in 2000, one year after he broke up with his tutor Jacqueline Domac who was 14 years his senior. Domac later went on to sue Furlong for domestic violence and a portion of his earnings. Speaking to Daily Mail UK in 2022, the American History X actor opened up about his abuse of meth and heroin throughout his 20s and 30s, which led to his overdosing a “couple” of times. In the interview, Furlong revealed he “didn’t have too many people looking out” for him and was “left to run wild” as a young actor. “If I was older, I wouldn’t have made so many bad decisions,” saying much of his drug use stemmed from wanting to “fit in”. In 2009, his then-wife Rachael Bella filed a restraining order against him after he allegedly punched her while under the influence of drugs. He was arrested again in 2012 and charged with felony domestic violence against his girlfriend Monica Keena, leading to a stint in jail and more time in rehab. Since a 2016 arrest for being under the influence of drugs, the star has stayed clean and has opened up about his journey to sobriety. “It’s nice to get a second chance,” he told Daily Mail UK, saying he was focusing on fatherhood and reconnecting with his family. Drew Barrymore (E.T) Drew Barrymore with her mother (right) at the ET premiere. Today Barrymore hosts her own talk show. Photo / Getty Steven Spielberg classic ET made Drew Barrymore a star at 7, but it would come as a surprise to many that she was cleaning toilets by 16 and had already been in rehab by age 12. Born into an acting dynasty, talk show host Barrymore recalled in her book Wildflower that she was a “party girl”, from a young age, going out with her mother and her mother’s friends up to five times a week. At 13, she found herself beginning an 18-month stint in hospital, where she was treated for alcohol and drug addiction. “I was so scared of not knowing where I was going. I really had a fear that I was going to die at 25,” she told the Guardian. “My life was not normal. I was not a kid in school with normal circumstances. There was something very abnormal, and I needed some severe shift”. When asked if she enjoyed child stardom, Barrymore said she had mixed feelings about it. “I don’t think I understood what was good, or pleasurable, or bad. I was probably chasing joy, but I don’t think it was the real joy. I was just too young to know”. Now the host of popular talk show The Drew Barrymore Show and recipient of multiple acting awards, Barrymore has been open about her past struggles and is seen widely as a success story of those who have overcome the struggles of child fame. According to Daily Mail, she has also been sober for around five years after quitting drinking sometime in 2019. Corey Feldman (Gremlins and The Goonies) Corey Feldman has been open about the abuse he suffered as a young actor in Hollywood. Photo / Getty Images Worth close to $1 million by age 15, Corey Feldman has spoken candidly about his struggles as a child actor. Emancipated from his parents, The Goonies star said he turned to drugs and alcohol as a way to escape abuse from his mother and the sexual abuse he suffered while in the film industry. “I can tell you that the No. 1 problem in Hollywood was and is and always will be paedophilia. That’s the biggest problem for children in this industry. ... It’s the big secret,” Feldman told ABC 九一星空无限 in 2011. “It was a symptom,” he said of drug and alcohol abuse. No stranger to authorities, Feldman was charged with possession of heroin in 1990, his second narcotics-related charge that year. He told ABC he underwent a 10-month rehabilitation process to recover from his addiction to heroin. Now sober for over three decades, he told Salon last year that he “never looked back or showed up high on a set or got arrested again”. While he said there were “a lot of good people” in Hollywood, there were also “really, really sick, corrupt people who had gotten away with it for so long that they feel they’re above the law, and that’s got to change”. He’s still starring in shows and plays to this day. Macaulay Culkin (Home Alone) Macaulay Culkin in 1990 and Culkin now. Photo / 九一星空无限 Corp Australia, Instagram Home Alone star Culkin was thrust into the spotlight aged 9 and starred in multiple hit 90s films growing up. At 24, his police mugshot made headlines after he was charged with possessing marijuana and a controlled substance without a prescription, the first of many concerning pictures taken of the star, who often looked pale and thin. He received three one-year suspended prison sentences and was ordered to pay $540 in fees. Speaking about recreational drugs in 2021, Culkin told Esquire that drugs were like “old friends. But sometimes you outgrow your friends”. On an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Culkin said he eventually grew tired of fame at a young age. “I actually wasn’t a huge fan after a while...being the centre of attention. It does become a job after a while”. Now partner to former Disney star Brenda Song (The Suite Life of Zack and Cody) with whom he shares a child with, Culkin is now sober and continues to appear in film and TV roles. He even received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame last year. In an interview with Variety, Song noted that she and Culkin had “vastly different” experiences being child actors, and that the experience taught her to “not take anything personally at a young age. At the end of the day, this is just a job”. Lindsay Lohan (Another World and The Parent Trap) Lindsay Lohan's 'party girl' persona was put down to years of pressure from tabloids and the paparazzi. Photo / Getty Images Tabloid scrutiny and being in the public eye are things Herbie: Fully Loaded actress Lindsay Lohan has cited as reasons that drew her to turn to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism. According to Hello, several reports were published about Lohan’s “party girl” lifestyle, and individuals who worked with the young star began to comment to the press about problems working with the actress on set. Legal issues and battles with addiction came as early as 2007, when Lohan was twice convicted of drunken driving, once for cocaine use, made three trips to rehab and served an 84-minute jail stay. “When I was younger, I was definitely going out too much and I was drinking too much,” she told Piers Morgan Live in 2013. She went on to tell Morgan in that interview that former co-stars Meryl Streep (A Prairie Home Companion) and Jamie Lee Curtis (Freaky Friday) tried to help her over the years, with Lee Curtis advising her to ditch the “hangers-on”. A big part of her work on herself was learning to say “no,” she told Bustle in 2024, revealing that as a child actor, “They teach you to say ‘yes’ to everything, and that’s not really what life’s all about”. According to Resident Magazine, Lohan celebrated 10 years of sobriety last year. She is set to reprise her role alongside Curtis in reboot of Freak Friday this year. Alcohol addiction Where to get help:• If you or someone you know needs support and treatment to reduce their alcohol intake, call the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797, visit their website, or free text 8681 for confidential advice. Drug addiction Where to get help:• 0800 METH HELP (0800 6384 4357)• Alcohol Drug Helpline (Phone 0800 787 797 or text 8681)• They also have a Māori line on 0800 787 798 and a Pasifika line on 0800 787 799 Mitchell Hageman joined the Herald’s entertainment and lifestyle team in 2024. He previously worked as a multimedia journalist for Hawke’s Bay Today. Sat, 11 Jan 2025 22:29:37 Z /news/entertainment/kate-middleton-to-celebrate-43rd-birthday-after-turbulent-year-cancer-diagnosis/ /news/entertainment/kate-middleton-to-celebrate-43rd-birthday-after-turbulent-year-cancer-diagnosis/ Catherine, Princess of Wales celebrates her 43rd birthday on Thursday, seeking to turn the page on a turbulent year which saw her retreat from public life to fight cancer. Kate, as she is commonly known, is expected to step up her royal engagements in 2025 after announcing in September that she had completed chemotherapy for an unspecified cancer. Kensington Palace has not said where the Princess of Wales plans to mark the start of her 44th year but she usually spends it surrounded by family in Norfolk.Her husband Prince William, heir to the British throne, was regularly photographed alone last year as both Kate and his father King Charles received treatment for the disease. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales) But the royal couple are set to make more appearances together over the next 12 months as they eye a return to normality, with William suggesting that an overseas trip may even be on the cards. The princess has not taken part in an official foreign visit since she attended the Rugby World Cup in France in October 2023. “I think hopefully Catherine will be doing a bit more next year, so we’ll have some more trips maybe lined up,” William said during a visit to Cape Town in November. Catherine’s birthday comes almost a year since she was admitted to hospital for abdominal surgery on January 16, 2024. Kate Middleton appeared in a video posted to the Prince and Princess of Wales' official Instagram account, confirming her chemotherapy is over and her focus was now on staying cancer-free. Photo / @princeandprincessofwales She spent nearly two weeks in the London Clinic after her operation, and was recuperating at home when she discovered that she had cancer and had to begin chemotherapy. Her lack of public appearances sparked wild speculation online about her condition and whereabouts, which Kate finally put to bed with a video message on Instagram in March revealing her diagnosis. She won plaudits for her openness and received an outpouring of support, but the announcement also plunged the monarchy into crisis given that her father-in-law Charles was battling the disease as well. Catherine received further praise following the release of a new video in September, in which she said that the previous nine months had been “incredibly tough”. ‘Brutal’ year In a touching video that featured William and their three children - George, 11, Charlotte, 9, and Louis, 6 - Catherine said that she was cancer-free and looking forward to undertaking more engagements “when I can”. Her gradual return to public life late last year included attending the Emir of Qatar’s state visit to Britain and the annual Remembrance Day ceremonies honouring the UK’s war dead. Kate Middleton and Prince William welcomed His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim Al Thani in a state visit last year. Photo / Getty Images She also visited Southport in northwest England to meet people affected by a knife attack in July that killed three young girls. Catherine reflected on “the most difficult times” as she hosted a Christmas service at Westminster Abbey last month, which came after William described the “brutal” year as the “hardest” of his life. Catherine, hugely popular in Britain since her marriage to William in 2011, is adored by UK newspapers, who praise her elegance and warm attitude to the public during royal engagements. Her public engagements this year are likely to feature the various charities she supports in early years education. Catherine and William may also be called upon to attend the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day on May 8 and Victory over Japan Day on August 15, which marks the end of World War II. The royal couple also have their daughter’s milestone 10th birthday to look forward to in May. - AFP Thu, 09 Jan 2025 00:45:38 Z /news/entertainment/jeff-baena-dead-aubrey-plaza-speaks-out-after-losing-husband/ /news/entertainment/jeff-baena-dead-aubrey-plaza-speaks-out-after-losing-husband/ Warning: This article refers to suicide and may be distressing for some readers. Aubrey Plaza has spoken out after the death of her husband, writer and director Jeff Baena, at the age of 47. A statement attributed to the actor and her late husband’s family shared with People magazine reads, “This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time.” It comes after Baena was found dead by his assistant on January 3 at his Los Angeles home, according to TMZ. Police and the local fire department arrived at the home around 10.30am to investigate a reported death, the outlet reported. Jeff Baena, filmmaker and husband of White Lotus actress Aubrey Plaza, has died aged 47. Photo / Getty images Baena was pronounced dead at the scene and authorities are treating his death as a suicide. He has more than a dozen film and directing credits to his name, most famously horror comedy Life After Beth, starring Plaza, and The Little Hours. He and Plaza met and started dating in 2011. The pair never publicly confirmed when they got engaged or married, but Plaza, who starred on the TV show Parks and Recreation, called him her “darling husband” in a social media post in 2021. At the time, she wrote, “So proud of my darling husband @jeffbaena for dreaming up another film that takes us to Italia to cause some more trouble.” A spokesperson for the couple then confirmed to People magazine that the pair had gotten married. In a 2019 interview with People, Plaza said of their relationship, “I think that one of the great things about our careers is that we are forced to be independent, take little breaks, go off and do our things and come back. “So it’s kind of fun. Nothing is ever the same. You don’t want to spend too much time apart. But I think that there’s a way that it can work and there’s a balance in that.” Baena is survived by his mother Barbara Stern, stepfather Roger Stern, dad and stepmother Scott and Michele Baena, brother Brad Baena and step-siblings Bianca Gabay and Jed Fluxman. - NZ Herald Tue, 07 Jan 2025 01:02:25 Z /news/entertainment/home-improvement-tv-star-zachery-ty-bryan-arrested-charged-with-domestic-violence/ /news/entertainment/home-improvement-tv-star-zachery-ty-bryan-arrested-charged-with-domestic-violence/ Zachery Ty Bryan, star of the popular 90s TV sitcom Home Improvement, has been arrested again in the United States, the latest in a series of arrests that mark a dramatic fall from grace for the former child star. This time Bryan, who played Brad Taylor in the show, faces charges of second-degree domestic violence after his arrest in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. TMZ reported that Bryan allegedly punched a woman multiple times and threatened to kill her during the January 1 incident, citing a police report which also states that the woman shares a child with Bryan. Zachery Ty Bryan, seen in an arrest photo following his January 1 arrest for domestic violence. Photo / Horry County Jail Bryan was previously arrested in 2020 in the US state of Oregon after his girlfriend alleged that he squeezed her throat with his hands during a heated argument in an apartment. He married that woman, Johnny Faye Cartwright, one year later and the pair have three children. He was arrested again in 2023 and charged with domestic assault. Bryan also faced drink-driving charges twice last year in both California and Oklahoma. Zachery Ty Bryan, third from left, as Brad Taylor in Home Improvement. Screenshot / ABC Bryan rose to fame on Home Improvement, which ran from 1991 to 1999. When he started on the show, playing the oldest child of Tim Allen’s Tim ‘The Tool Man’ Taylor character, he was just 9. After the show wrapped he made smaller appearances on other shows such as Veronica Mars and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, before retiring from acting in 2009. Jonathan Taylor Thomas, who played his younger brother Randy in the show, took a different path after he stepped away from acting. The former tween heartthrob disappeared from public view for years after leaving the profession, eventually surfacing in 2023. He went to university and studied philosophy and history, graduating with a degree from Columbia University in 2010. “I’d been [acting] nonstop since I was eight years old. I wanted to go to school, to travel and have a bit of a break,” he said in 2013. “To sit in a big library amongst books and students, that was pretty cool. “It was a novel experience for me.” - NZ Herald Sun, 05 Jan 2025 23:14:01 Z /news/entertainment/82nd-golden-globe-awards-meet-host-nikki-glaser-the-comedian-who-could-be-ruder-than-ricky-gervais/ /news/entertainment/82nd-golden-globe-awards-meet-host-nikki-glaser-the-comedian-who-could-be-ruder-than-ricky-gervais/ Comedian Nikki Glaser will host the 82nd Golden Globes on January 6, marking the first time a woman has hosted the ceremony. Glaser, known for her controversial humour, has faced backlash for jokes about celebrities like Taylor Swift and Tom Brady. Despite her edgy reputation, Glaser promises a toned-down performance at the Golden Globes, aiming to avoid offending anyone. On August 28, 2024, the Golden Globes and CBS announced that comedian and actress Nikki Glaser would host the prestigious awards' 82nd outing on January 6 (NZT). The famed Golden Globe awards are no stranger to hosts who push the boundaries of comedy, with celebrities such as Jo Koy and Ricky Gervais both scrutinised for their efforts and jokes in past ceremonies. But Glaser, the first woman ever to host the famed ceremony, is also no stranger to controversy. The Not Safe With Nikki Glaser star has taken social media by storm with her brutal roasts, biting insult humour, and sex comedy, amassing more than a million followers on Instagram and dominating screens across the world. Her latest stand-up special, Nikki Glaser: Someday You’ll Die, is also critically acclaimed and nominated for multiple awards including the Globes themselves. From Taylor Swift body shaming to Tom Brady roasts, we take a look at how Glaser got where she is today and why she has the potential to be one of the most controversial hosts to date. Nikki Glaser in no stranger to controversial jokes. Photo / Danny Feld Who is Nikki Glaser? Born on June 1, 1984, in Cincinnati Ohio, Glaser is the oldest of two girls and was said to be raised in a Catholic household. After spending most of her childhood and schooling in Missouri, she graduated university in Kansas with a degree in English literature. Glaser revealed that she initially wanted to be an actress but was “not very good” and decided to study English because she enjoyed AP English in high school. It was during her university days that her passion for stand-up comedy became apparent. Initially shy and quiet in high school, Glaser revealed she found her voice as she started to make friends. “In college, I finally spoke up for the first time and that’s when I first heard, ‘You’re really funny, you should be a stand-up comedian, ‘” she told Revue in 2020. “I was never told that before, so I thought, I’ll check that out. I started doing it and instantly knew it was the perfect thing. Not only was I naturally good at it - the first time I went on stage I had a good set - but it’s also something I cared about getting good at and wanted to commit all of my time to it”. Eventually gaining prominence with her stand-up sets, she shifted to film work and podcasting. From 2011 to 2014, Glaser hosted a podcast with comedian Sara Schaefer called You Had To Be There and starred in a number of small films and series until her big break with Comedy Central show Not Safe With Nikki Glaser. The boundary pushing show ran for one season in 2016 and saw Glaser and a panel of comedians talk about topics about sex. Her aptitude as a host has also shone through during her career, taking the helm of reality TV dating shows Blind Date (2019), FBoy Island (2021–) and its spinoff Lovers and Liars. She also hosted the reality show Welcome Home Nikki Glaser? Sober since 2012 and now a non-smoker, Glaser told Maxim her private life was one of the drivers for her to stop the vices and credited the writing of British addiction author Allen Carr as help. “I realised I had to quit drinking to have a real relationship - plus, I was having, you know, terrible hangovers”. In 2021 she also opened up about her struggles with anorexia, revealing to The Unwind that it really took hold during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic. “You might not look anorexic but you are - you can live like that. It’s even worse because no one can see it. So I was in the depths of an eating disorder when Covid hit and I had nothing else to look at,” she said. Glaser is notably a long-time activist for animal rights and has been a vegan since 2016. Why is she controversial? A number of Glaser’s jokes have landed her in hot water, particularly those relating to other celebrities. The comedian was forced to make a public apology to pop juggernaut Swift after clips of Glaser body shaming the singer appeared in Swift’s Netflix documentary, Miss Americana. In the movie, the comedian can be heard making a joke about Swift being “too skinny” and that a person would have to “have a thigh gap to hang out” with the Cruel Summer hitmaker. Glaser, who later told Billboard she spent thousands attending 22 of Swift’s Eras Tour concerts, later took to Instagram where she apologised for any pain she might have caused. “I really have no need to post this other than to apologise to someone who seriously means SO much to me,” she said. “I only got a couple death threats from die-hard Swift fans, which as one myself, I totally get … I just hope this somehow gets to her so she knows I’m sorry for any pain I caused her and that I’d love to be her friend someday (when I start modelling) and tell her how much her music has influenced my life and comedy”. My new stand-up special is on @HBO July 16th. Here’s a sneak peak. pic.twitter.com/5wc1f3M1DJ— Nikki Glaser (@NikkiGlaser) June 29, 2022 According to Daily Mail UK, when talking about her concert-going record, Glaser later labelled one Eras Tour fan a “gutter punk bitch” who gave off “twitchy, squirrel with, like, rabies behaviour,” on her Nikki Glaser Podcast. The alleged woman mentioned eventually came forward publicly on TikTok, with commenters chastising Glaser for “bullying”. Sports stars have also been the target of Glaser’s controversial jokes. At the 2024 Roast of Tom Brady broadcast on Netflix, the comedian took a dig at the Superbowl champion’s recent divorce from wife Gisele Bundchen. “Tom Brady, five-time Super Bowl MVP, most career wins, most career touchdowns, you have seven rings − well, eight now that Gisele gave hers back," she joked, adding Brady’s “diet programme” was “so strict, but if you follow it exactly as he does, you too can lose your family”. Brady, while generally good-spirited with the roast, admitted he wouldn’t partake again due to the way it affected his family, leading Glaser to think more carefully about the impact she had. “[Maybe I] didn’t consider the backlash from his family and how would affect them,” she told Today with Hoda and Jenna. Glaser also doesn’t shy away from edgy comedy, often touching on themes of rape, suicide and mental illness. In one of her more controversial statements, the comedian said: “If I were to say right now, ‘Guys, I’m going to do some rape jokes,’ you might go, ‘Go back to the suicide stuff’”. “But if I said, ‘But I can do these jokes, because I’ve been raped,’ you’d go, ‘Oh, thank God she was raped. Okay, good. I thought she hadn’t been raped. Thank God she was brutally raped. Now I can relax. I was nervous before.’” Despite her previous faux pas and penchant for pulling verbal punches, Glaser told Yahoo! Entertainment that her Golden Globe hosting performance will stay away from ruffling feathers. “It’s not gonna be watered down, [but] the tone will be different for this,” she said. “I’m not gonna go so hard that anyone’s gonna be offended”. Mitchell Hageman joined the Herald’s entertainment and lifestyle team in 2024. He previously worked as a multimedia journalist for Hawke’s Bay Today. Sun, 05 Jan 2025 02:47:59 Z /news/entertainment/rock-legend-neil-young-says-he-will-play-glastonbury-music-festival-after-all/ /news/entertainment/rock-legend-neil-young-says-he-will-play-glastonbury-music-festival-after-all/ Folk legend Neil Young has had a change of heart and will now headline at the Glastonbury music festival, the singer-songwriter and the organisers say. Shortly after pulling out of the iconic festival alleging it was under the “corporate control” of its partner the BBC, Young went back on the decision saying it had been based on “an error in the information I received”. “Happily, the festival is now back on our itinerary and we look forward to playing! Hope to see you there!” the US-Canadian wrote on his website on Friday. Organisers gleefully announced that Young and his band The Chrome Hearts would now headline at the Pyramid stage during the June music fest. “What a start to the year! Neil Young is an artist who’s very close to our hearts at Glastonbury,” festival co-organiser Emily Eavis wrote on Instagram. “He does things his own way and that’s why we love him. We can’t wait to welcome him back here to headline the Pyramid in June.” The 79-year-old musician, who was once part of the supergroup Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, had alleged earlier that the BBC “wanted us to do a lot of things in a way we were not interested in”, without specifying. Young, who last played Glastonbury in 2009, had said the festival was “a corporate turn-off, and not for me like it used to be”. The full official line-up for the world-famous festival has not been announced yet. But this year’s event will see raspy-voiced British rock star Rod Stewart play the coveted legends slot. Tickets for this year sold out within 35 minutes when they went on sale in November, with standard tickets priced at £373.50 ($471.50). Glastonbury attracted more than 210,000 fans in 2024, hosting 3000 performances across 80 stages. Many of the gigs were broadcast by the BBC, which has partnered with the festival since 1997. Glasto, as the festival is popularly known, was inspired by Britain’s 1960s counterculture and hippie movements, with its first iteration as the Pilton Festival in 1970. Glam rockers T. Rex were the first headliners. Since then, it has attracted cult status and big names, from David Bowie and Paul McCartney to Stormzy and Elton John, who played his final British gig there in 2023. Sat, 04 Jan 2025 03:18:14 Z