United News of Bangladesh

Veteran Bollywood fashion designers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla have shared their thoughts on the latest generation of star kids, praising Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh’s son, Ibrahim Ali Khan, as a “born” superstar. Speaking on The Namrata Zakaria Show, the duo described Ibrahim as having a unique charm and energy that sets him apart. “Ibrahim is a born star. He is the superstar. He is a new-age Salman Khan. He has this pizzazz which nobody else has,” they said. His sister, Sara Ali Khan, they noted, is “intelligent” and focused, having studied in New York and once aspired to become a lawyer. The designers also discussed other star kids, like Rinke Khanna’s daughter Naomika, highlighting how today’s young celebrities are independent and make their own choices. Abu Jani remarked on how polite and well-mannered these children are, noting that they greet elders first and are very grounded despite their fame. They also spoke about Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson Agastya, praising his talent and wishing him success in his upcoming role in director Sriram Raghavan’s war drama Ikkis. Ibrahim, who made his debut this year in the Dharmatic Entertainment film Nadaaniyan alongside Khushi Kapoor, gained attention despite mixed reviews. He also appeared in the OTT film Sarzameen with Kajol and Prithviraj Sukumaran, further establishing his presence in the industry. Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla’s remarks reinforce the growing buzz around Ibrahim as a promising new face in Bollywood, combining charisma, talent, and a fresh appeal.   Source: NDTV

Ozzy Osbourne said he “wouldn’t change a thing” about his life in a moving BBC documentary filmed before his death. The rock legend passed away in July at age 76, less than three weeks after his star-studded farewell concert in his hometown of Birmingham. The one-hour film, Sharon & Ozzy Osbourne: Coming Home, aired on BBC One Thursday and chronicles the final three years of his life, including his and Sharon’s plans to move back to the UK from Los Angeles. Originally scheduled for August, the broadcast was delayed to respect the family’s wishes. Reflecting on his farewell show at Villa Park, Ozzy said it was a “humbling” experience, noting how his emotions nearly got the better of him while performing Mama, I’m Coming Home. A serious spinal injury forced him to perform sitting on a throne for nine songs, which he described as “torture.” The event featured Black Sabbath and performances from artists influenced by Ozzy, including Metallica and Guns N’ Roses. Despite health struggles, including Parkinson’s disease and injuries from a 2003 quad bike accident and a 2019 fall, Ozzy remained determined to return to the stage one last time. The documentary shows him undergoing physiotherapy and using prosthetic supports to regain mobility. Ozzy, a Birmingham-born pioneer of heavy metal, also discussed his decision to move back to the UK, saying he didn’t want to be buried in America. He humorously noted replacing his old addictions with a love for Pink Lady apples. Following his death, Ozzy received an emotional send-off in Birmingham, with thousands of fans paying tribute. His memoir, Last Rites, will be published posthumously next week, and a second documentary covering his final six years, Ozzy: No Escape From Now, will air on Paramount+ on October 7.   Source: BBC

Taylor Swift has returned with her 12th album, The Life of a Showgirl, a bright and jubilant collection that reflects a stark contrast to the emotional turbulence of her previous release, The Tortured Poets Department. That album chronicled heartbreak from her failed relationship with actor Joe Alwyn, leaving Swift at a low point. Eighteen months later, Swift, 35, is energized, happy, and newly in love with NFL star Travis Kelce. The album, recorded in between performances during her record-breaking Eras tour, captures her offstage life, revealing a playful, exuberant, and vibrant side. For this project, Swift teamed up with Swedish pop producers Max Martin and Shellback rather than longtime collaborator Jack Antonoff. The aim was to craft a concise, high-energy collection of “bangers” with catchy, irresistible melodies. At just 41 minutes, it’s her shortest album since her 2006 debut and a sharp contrast to the sprawling wordiness of her previous work. The 12-track album explores two main themes: the thrill of falling deeply in love and the darker realities of fame. Fans encounter witty imagery, from a burlesque dancer “glowing like the end of a cigarette” to critics likened to “a toy chihuahua barking from a tiny purse.” Playful and cheeky moments, including songs with innuendo, punctuate the collection. The opening track, The Fate of Ophelia, subverts expectations with Swift singing about being “saved” by Kelce, referencing their romance and incorporating playful nods to their relationship. Other highlights include Opalite, a breezy love song, Wi$h Li$t, celebrating domestic life, and Wood, a flirtatious, staccato track filled with double entendres celebrating her relationship with Kelce. Swift also delivers clever, sarcastic takes on rivals in Actually Romantic and industry betrayal in Father Figure, continuing her legacy of revenge anthems. The emotionally resonant ballad Ruin The Friendship reflects on high school nostalgia and regret, while the title track, a duet with Sabrina Carpenter, critiques the cutthroat world of show business with a playful tap-dancing interlude. With The Life of a Showgirl, Taylor Swift celebrates love, growth, and stardom, cementing her status as one of pop’s most enduring icons. The album is a confident, glittering victory lap, underscoring her position in the music world.   Source: BBC

Kim Kardashian and her mother, Kris Jenner, have filed a defamation lawsuit against Kardashian’s ex-boyfriend Ray J, accusing him of spreading false claims that they are under federal investigation and facing imminent indictment. The lawsuit, lodged Wednesday in Los Angeles Superior Court, is a swift response to what the reality TV stars and entrepreneurs say are baseless allegations. Ray J, whose real name is Ray Norwood Jr., allegedly claimed he was collaborating with federal authorities on a racketeering case against them that would soon lead to criminal charges. According to the court filing, Ray J’s remarks are part of a “sustained campaign of harassment and defamation” spanning several years. The lawsuit notes that he has repeatedly tried to attach himself to the Kardashians’ fame following the end of his relationship with Kim over two decades ago. Two recent statements reportedly triggered the legal action. In a May TMZ special, Ray J suggested racketeering charges against the Kardashians “would be appropriate” and expressed belief in potential charges. Later, during a September 30 livestream viewed by millions, he claimed, “The federal RICO I’m about to drop on Kris and Kim is about to be crazy,” and added, “the feds is coming,” comparing the case to one involving Sean “Diddy” Combs. The lawsuit emphasizes that Ray J provided no evidence to support his “blatantly false” statements. It states that no federal investigation or criminal proceeding exists against Kardashian or Jenner and that the allegations are completely unfounded. Ray J, a singer and actor and brother of pop star Brandy, is best known for his past relationship with Kim Kardashian and a leaked 2007 sex tape. The lawsuit describes his comments as part of a deliberate attempt to defame the Kardashians and revive his fading fame. The plaintiffs claim the statements have caused reputational and financial harm, to be proven at trial. Kardashian and Jenner are represented by attorney Alex Spiro, known for handling high-profile cases, including defending Alec Baldwin.  

Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to be sentenced Friday in a federal criminal case that could result in years of imprisonment. The hip-hop mogul, 55, was convicted in July of transporting people across the country for sexual encounters—including girlfriends and male sex workers—violating the federal Mann Act. He was acquitted of more serious racketeering and sex trafficking charges, which carried the possibility of a life sentence. Prosecutors are seeking more than 11 years in prison for Combs on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. His lawyers argue the proposed sentence is “wildly out of proportion” and are asking for his release. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, who will hand down the sentence, has indicated Combs is unlikely to be released soon. The judge previously denied bail twice, and Combs has been held at a Brooklyn federal detention center since his arrest a year ago. The nearly two-month trial featured testimony from women describing beatings, threats, sexual assault, and blackmail. Former girlfriend R&B singer Casandra “Cassie” Ventura testified that Combs forced her into hundreds of sexual encounters with strangers over a decade-long relationship. Video evidence showed Combs dragging and hitting Cassie in a hotel hallway. Another woman, identified as “Jane,” said she was subjected to violence and coerced to engage in sexual acts with male sex workers at drug-fueled hotel parties, sometimes filmed by Combs. Other witnesses recounted additional violent acts, including rape, assault, and threats. Kid Cudi testified that Combs broke into his home over a personal dispute. Although acquitted of racketeering, Combs could still face a sentence influenced by the trial testimony. The judge will also consider letters from Combs and his accusers. In his letter, Combs claimed he has changed and promised never to reoffend. Cassie described him as a manipulative abuser unlikely to change, while a former assistant called for a sentence reflecting the ongoing danger he poses. Combs will address the court, and his defense team plans to present an 11-minute video. Lawyers maintain that the encounters were consensual and argue that his time in jail has reformed him, claiming he has already faced significant punishment.

Actor Rani Mukerji on Friday highlighted the growing threat of cybercrimes, particularly against women and children, and called for collective action to ensure a safer digital environment. She spoke at the inauguration of Cyber Awareness Month 2025 at the Maharashtra State Police Headquarters. “Cybercrimes are silently rising within our homes. As a woman and a mother, I understand how crucial awareness is. Families must know how to stay safe and where to seek help,” Rani said. The actor, who is currently shooting Mardaani 3, praised the Maharashtra Police for their initiative and acknowledged the guidance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Additional Chief Secretary Iqbal Singh Chahal, and DGP Rashmi Shukla. Shah Rukh Khan becomes Bollywood’s first billionaire with $1.4bn fortune Rani also emphasized the importance of government helplines, including dial 1930 and 1945, calling them “a blessing to all citizens.” She urged everyone to pledge to “stay alert, speak up, and stand together for a safer digital world.” Known for portraying strong women in her films, Rani said, “As an actor, I may bring stories to life on screen. But as a citizen, it is our responsibility to ensure no child cries in silence, no woman feels unsafe, and no family loses peace of mind due to cybercrime.” The event was attended by Maharashtra CM Fadnavis, DGP Shukla, ACS Chahal, and actor Akshay Kumar among others. Source: NDTV 

Actor Raghav Juyal is winning hearts with his quirky portrayal of Parvaiz in Netflix’s The Ba**ds of Bollywood, but a scene that has gone viral was not part of the original script. In the clip, Juyal passionately performs the song Kaho Na Kaho from Murder, including its Arabic verses, in front of Emraan Hashmi, leaving audiences amused and impressed. Speaking to NDTV, Juyal said the moment was born out of improvisation. “It wasn’t in the script. Aryan and I were unsure what to do when Emraan sir entered. Then Aryan suddenly said, ‘You’ll sing a song.’ We debated between Bheege Honth Tere and Kaho Na Kaho and finally chose the latter because its Arabic portions let me perform more,” he explained. Juyal added that the first take left him shaking and in tears, a reaction that even surprised the director, Aryan Khan. “It happened organically, and I think that’s why it looked so genuine,” he said. Initially, Juyal was unsure about his role, as Parvaiz lacked a defined backstory. “Aryan told me, ‘I know you. I have full faith. This is my favourite character. We’ll create it together on set.’ And that’s exactly what happened,” he shared. The Ba**ds of Bollywood, directed by Aryan Khan, premiered on Netflix on September 18 and stars Lakshya, Bobby Deol, Mona Singh, and cameo appearances from Emraan Hashmi, Shah Rukh Khan, SS Rajamouli, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan.                          Source: NDTV

Veteran playback singer Kumar Sanu has served a legal notice to his former wife Rita Bhattacharya after she alleged in a recent interview that he “tortured” her during pregnancy. The notice was sent through his lawyer Sana Raees Khan, according to The Indian Express. An excerpt from the notice stated that Sanu had dedicated over four decades to music and won love worldwide, adding: “Hurtful lies may create noise for a moment, but they cannot erase the legacy of an artist who has given a lifetime of music and memories.” It further warned that defamatory attempts would be met with “the full force of law” to safeguard his dignity and family honour. Bhattacharya, speaking in an interview with Siddharth Kannan, recounted hardships she faced during her third pregnancy while managing divorce proceedings. She alleged Sanu denied their children food and medical care, claiming she survived with help from sympathetic neighbours. She also said he gave her only Rs 100 during the divorce and recalled selling her jewellery to survive. She further claimed Sanu showed indifference when their two sons went missing during the 2005 Mumbai floods, saying she searched all night while he did not enquire about their safety. Kumar Sanu and Rita Bhattacharya married in 1980 and separated in 1994. During that period, Sanu was also linked with actor Kunickaa Sadanand, though the relationship did not last. He later married Saloni Bhattacharya in 2001, with whom he has two daughters.   Source: NDTV

An AI-generated performer named Tilly Norwood has sparked outrage in Hollywood after its Dutch creators revealed it is in talks with talent agencies. At first glance, Norwood appears like a young actress on social media, complete with professional photos and even an AI-generated comedy sketch portraying her as having “girl next door vibes.” Her Instagram posts claim, “I may be AI, but I’m feeling very real emotions right now.” But Hollywood stars and the actors’ union are pushing back. SAG-AFTRA, the powerful actors’ guild, condemned Norwood as “not an actor, but a computer-generated character trained on the work of countless professionals,” stressing it lacks real-life experience, emotion, or authenticity. Oscar-nominated actress Emily Blunt called the creation “terrifying,” while Natasha Lyonne urged boycotts of any agencies that represent it. Whoopi Goldberg also weighed in, saying audiences can easily distinguish synthetic performers from humans. Tilly was created by Dutch comedian and actor Eline Van der Velden, who described the project as “a piece of art, not a replacement for a human being.” She compared it to drawing or writing a character and argued such creations should be seen as their own genre. The backlash comes as Hollywood remains wary of artificial intelligence after the 2023 strikes, where AI use was a central issue. SAG-AFTRA reminded studios that employing Norwood could conflict with contractual protections secured in that strike, accusing AI projects of “using stolen performances” and “jeopardizing human livelihoods.” Despite the criticism, Van der Velden suggested at a recent Zurich summit that studios are already exploring high-profile AI projects, with public announcements expected soon.   Source: BBC

Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan has officially entered the billionaire club, becoming one of the world’s wealthiest actors, according to the Hurun India Rich List 2025. The 59-year-old actor’s net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion (£1.03 billion), placing him alongside global celebrities such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rihanna, Tiger Woods, and Taylor Swift, whose fortunes are valued at $1.6 billion by Forbes. Other Bollywood stars on the list include actress Juhi Chawla, actors Hrithik Roshan and Amitabh Bachchan, and filmmaker Karan Johar. Known as Bollywood’s “king of romance,” Khan has spent over three decades in the Hindi film industry, evolving from actor to entrepreneur, running the production company Red Chillies Entertainment and owning the IPL team Knight Rider Sports. “Khan’s billionaire status comes largely from his stakes in Red Chillies and Knight Rider Sports,” said Anas Rahman Junaid, founder of Hurun India. He added that Khan also earns from films, advertisements, and real estate investments worldwide. Junaid noted that Khan’s rise reflects a shift in India’s wealth landscape, with sports, entertainment, and intellectual property now becoming major wealth creators, similar to trends in the US where celebrities like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Oprah Winfrey dominate rich lists. While other Bollywood celebrities and their families made Hurun’s list this year, Khan’s fortune far surpasses them. Juhi Chawla ranks second at $880 million, Hrithik Roshan third at $260 million, Karan Johar around $200 million, and Amitabh Bachchan with family at $183 million. India’s billionaire count now exceeds 350, with Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani holding the top positions.   Source: BBC