Beyoncé and Taylor Swift are once again set to compete for the prestigious Album of the Year award at the Grammys, marking a head-to-head battle not seen since 2010. This year, Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” and Swift’s “The Tortured Poets Department” lead the way, while facing stiff competition from the likes of Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, André 3000, Jacob Collier, and former Swift collaborators Charli XCX and Sabrina Carpenter.

In addition to Album of the Year, both artists are vying against each other in the Record of the Year and Song of the Year categories, with Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em” going up against Swift’s “Fortnight.” They’ll also compete in the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance category, with Beyoncé teaming up with Post Malone for “Levii’s Jeans,” and Swift alongside Gracie Abrams on “us.”

This Grammy showdown highlights Beyoncé’s historic milestone of 99 career nominations — the most for any artist, surpassing her previous joint record with Jay-Z. Meanwhile, Swift holds 58 nominations to date, a significant feat on its own.

The Grammy rivalry between these two powerhouses dates back to when Swift’s “Fearless” edged out Beyoncé’s “I Am… Sasha Fierce” for Album of the Year, while Beyoncé clinched Song of the Year for “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It).” This year’s ceremony will test whether Beyoncé can capture her elusive first Album of the Year award, or if Swift can add to her record-setting tally of four wins in this category.

For years, both artists have cleverly released albums in non-overlapping Grammy cycles, avoiding fandom clashes. But the competitive spirit resumes full force, with this year’s results promising to be one of the most anticipated in Grammy history. Tune in on February 2 to see how it unfolds on ABC, Hulu, and Disney+.

Legendary Artist and Actor Kris Kristofferson Passes Away at 88

Photo: Jack Robinson/Condé Nast via Getty Images

Kris Kristofferson, an icon of music and film, passed away at 88 in his Maui home. Known for his multifaceted career, Kristofferson’s impact spanned decades, capturing themes of guilt, pride, and despair in his work. His legacy in both industries is illustrious, showcasing a talent that balanced elegantly between music and film.

Kristofferson’s break came when his song “The Pilgrim, Chapter 33” was referenced in Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver. With hits like “Sunday Morning Comin’ Down,” “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” and “Me and Bobby McGee,” Kristofferson cemented his place in music history. Parallelly, films such as Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, and the 1976 adaptation of A Star Is Born showcased his acting prowess.

Born in Texas to a military family, Kristofferson pursued a unique path. A Rhodes Scholar, he also served as a helicopter pilot, eventually abandoning the military to chase his songwriting dreams in Nashville. His perseverance paid off when Johnny Cash recorded his song “Sunday Morning Comin’ Down,” sparking his recognition.

His Hollywood journey began unintentionally, debuting in Cisco Pike. By the mid-’70s, Kristofferson was a sought-after talent, working with major directors like Martin Scorsese and Sam Peckinpah.

As part of the supergroup Highwaymen alongside Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson, Kristofferson found enormous commercial success in the ’80s. Throughout his life, he championed progressive causes, using his platform to voice support for civil rights and environmentalism.

Kristofferson’s unwavering dedication to authenticity in both his music and acting set him apart. Unlike contemporaries who juggled music and film, Kristofferson maintained a consistent standard of excellence. His legacy endures through his diverse array of roles and timeless music, showcasing a career marked by truth and artistry.

Pop star Kesha is stepping into the world of music entrepreneurship with the launch of her own independent record label, aptly titled Kesha Records, the singer announced on Monday. The label will function under Warner Music Group’s independent distribution arm, ADA, managing the release of her future projects, including a new album slated for 2025. Kesha Records has already made its debut with her latest single, “Joyride.”

Expressing her excitement, Kesha stated, “I am proud to announce this partnership for the distribution of my music through Kesha Records. My name has become synonymous with transparency, integrity, and safety, and I want to ensure that these values are upheld for myself and any future artists signed to my label. Music has the power to connect the world, and I aspire for my work to be a beacon of light and goodness. I am excited to take control of my narrative and rewrite my story in the music business.”

ADA will collaborate with Kesha’s management company, Crush Music, for the marketing and promotion of her album. ADA president Cat Kreidich praised the partnership, stating the company is “honored and committed to supporting Kesha as an independent artist while maintaining her creative integrity and unapologetic bold-spirit.”

This new chapter follows the release of Gag Order, her last contractual album under Dr. Luke’s Kemosabe Records and RCA Records. By opting to work with ADA, Kesha will maintain ownership and significant creative control over her music.

The move signifies a fresh start for Kesha, who spent much of the past decade embroiled in a legal battle with Dr. Luke, alleging he sexually abused her—a claim he denied. The dispute was settled out-of-court in June 2023. Following the settlement, Kesha expressed gratitude to her fans, tweeting, “You have held me and carried me through the past 9 years. I am so full of light and excitement for the beautiful things to come.”

Prince Harry is reportedly putting in immense effort to ensure that Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet experience a childhood vastly different from his own. Royal expert Jennie Bond, a former BBC correspondent, revealed Harry’s dedication and hands-on approach in a candid interview with OK magazine.

Discussing Harry’s parenting style, Bond highlighted his sporty and competitive nature, noting, “Harry has always been quite sporty and competitive. I bet he gets the kids involved in all sorts of games, making it incredibly fun while teaching them skills like surfing or football.” She further emphasized the benefits of the Montecito lifestyle, where the family’s outdoor activities keep the children away from screens and TV—a value both Harry and Meghan strongly uphold.

Bond praised Harry’s commitment to his parental role, saying, “I think he is relishing his role as a parent and playing the fullest part he can in the lives of his two tots.” Adding, “He’s fortunate to share most of their daily lives, making him a devoted dad who’s no stranger to nappy changing or school runs.” Bond believes Harry finds the sense of security and stability in his family life that he missed during his own tumultuous upbringing.

With the warm weather and outdoor lifestyle of Montecito contributing to a joyous upbringing for Archie and Lilibet, it seems Prince Harry is succeeding in his quest to create a happy and stable home for his children. Bond’s insights paint a picture of a loving father deeply involved in the daily lives of his children, striving to provide them with a nurturing and supportive environment.

Selena Gomez has recently shared personal insights into her journey towards motherhood, revealing a heartfelt and sincere discussion about her inability to carry her own children. In various interviews and statements across major media outlets, including BBC, Times of India, Hindustan Times, and BuzzFeed, the actress and singer disclosed the emotional struggles she faced upon learning she would be unable to experience pregnancy.

Gomez expressed that discovering her condition was emotionally taxing, and she had to allow herself time to grieve and process the reality of her situation. Despite this, Selena maintains a positive outlook on her future as a mother and is thrilled with the various possibilities that surrogacy and adoption offer.

Addressing her fans and the public, Selena highlighted how embracing these alternative paths to parenthood has provided her with hope and excitement. She emphasized that although she may not carry her own children, she is committed to becoming a mother and is looking forward to the journey ahead with optimism.

The pop star and actress, known for her candidness, spoke openly about how her medical condition has influenced her broader perspective on life and motherhood. She encourages others facing similar challenges to explore all available options and to find solace in the fact that being a parent is not solely defined by pregnancy.

Selena Gomez’s honesty and vulnerability shine through as she navigates this deeply personal aspect of her life, offering inspiration to many who might find themselves in similar situations. Her story underscores the importance of resilience, hope, and the multitude of ways one can build and cherish a family.

In the latest cinematic offering, “The Critic,” revered actor Ian McKellen steps into the shoes of an uncompromising theater critic, delivering a performance that’s as chilling as it is compelling. Directed by Anand Tucker, this period drama has been garnering attention from all corners of the film world.

USA TODAY remarks on McKellen’s ruthless portrayal, which brings an intense gravity to his character, making it a standout in his illustrious career. The film captures the life of a theater critic who approaches his job with an almost sadistic seriousness, dissecting performances and productions with an eye that spares no flaw.

Hindustan Times praises McKellen’s dedication to the role, highlighting how his character’s scathing reviews can make or break careers and productions. In an industry where reputation is everything, his character wields considerable power.

In a candid interview with the Financial Times, McKellen shared his thoughts on the often adversarial relationship between actors and critics. With a touch of humor, he recounted how he once received a glass bowl for an award, which he now repurposes for making trifles, showcasing his ability to find levity even in the more serious aspects of his profession.

Verde Independent announces the premiere of “The Critic” at the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) from September 13-19, promising an event that’s sure to draw cinephiles and critics alike, eager to see McKellen’s buzzed-about performance firsthand.

IMDb’s review applauds McKellen’s masterful portrayal, even as it critiques the film’s overall narrative structure, calling it flimsy. However, McKellen’s acerbic wit and compelling presence are universally acknowledged as the film’s saving grace.

“The Critic” is a fascinating exploration of the power dynamics within the theater world, punctuated by McKellen’s brilliant performance. While the film may wobble in its storytelling, it firmly stands as a showcase of McKellen’s formidable talent, rendering it a must-watch for his fans and those intrigued by the ferocious world of theater criticism.

According to sources, Weinstein experienced severe chest pains, prompting immediate medical intervention. While details around his condition remain scarce, his representatives have assured that he is receiving top-tier medical care.

Weinstein, a central figure in the #MeToo movement, was previously convicted of sexual assault and rape. His latest health scare adds another layer of complexity to his fraught narrative. Despite these legal woes, Weinstein recently made headlines for avoiding indecent assault charges in Britain — a minor respite amidst a tumultuous period.

Reports indicate that Weinstein’s ongoing legal battles and health struggles are significantly impacting his life. Apart from his heart issues, he has been grappling with other medical conditions, further compounding the challenges he faces.

In the entertainment industry, Weinstein’s name has become synonymous with scandal and controversy. His rapid fall from grace has been widely publicized, yet his story continues to captivate public interest. The latest turn of events, involving his emergency hospital visit, adds yet another chapter to his already complex saga.

Entertainment news outlets, like HuffPost, The Times of India, The Guardian US, and others, continue to follow every twist and turn. Audiences around the globe remain eager to see how Weinstein’s health and legal situations will unfold.

As Weinstein continues to draw media attention, his latest ordeal with emergency heart surgery in New York brings yet another dramatic angle to an already sensationalized life story. Whether his health will stabilize remains to be seen, but for now, the former film mogul must focus on his recovery.

The momentous day has finally arrived for the Ambani family. Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani are set to wed on July 12, following a series of opulent ceremonies and festivities spanning several months. Their pre-wedding events have been nothing short of breathtaking, drawing luminaries from around the globe. After a traditional ‘mameru’ ceremony, the couple hosted an extravagant sangeet last week, featuring performances by stars such as Ranveer Singh, Sara Ali Khan, and Ananya Panday. International pop sensation Justin Bieber also touched down in Mumbai on Friday.

But the celebrations are far from over! The Ambani family is planning a grand sangeet for the happy couple at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) this Friday, with the theme of Indian Regal Glam. Reports indicate that Badshah and Karan Aujla will be adding some Punjabi flair to the festivities. Bollywood icons Salman Khan and Ranveer Singh are also expected to electrify the night with their performances. You can be sure that the crème de la crème of Bollywood and Hollywood will be there to celebrate with the Ambani family.

55-years-old Mikkelsen, who is known for his role as a serial killer Hannibal Lecter in the U.S. television series Hannibal is set to play the role of an evil wizard Gellert Grindelwald in the spinoff movie from the Harry Potter author, J.K. Rowling.

Previously, Depp was forced to exit the role after losing a libel case in Britain against a tabloid newspaper who branded him as a “wife beater.”

Depp, who had earlier begun production on the third Fantastic Beasts movie in London, said that he was asked to leave by Warner Bros.

On the other side, Mikkelsen who has played roles in action movies like Doctor Strange and Casino Royale as well as taking roles in Danish dramas such as the Hunnt and A Royal Affair.

The third in the row, is yet an untitled movie and is set to release in July 2022.