United News of Bangladesh

Snoop Dogg has signed a multi-year partnership with NBCUniversal, bringing his production company, Death Row Pictures, into a wide-ranging collaboration across film, television, streaming and sports content. The agreement, described as a first-look deal, was announced by NBCUniversal chairman Donna Langley, who expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, according to The Hollywood Reporter. “There’s only one Snoop, and we’re so excited for him to join our unbelievable roster of creative partners,” said Langley. Under the deal, Death Row Pictures is already developing a biopic about the rap icon. The film will be written by Joe Robert Cole and produced by Brian Grazer. Meanwhile, Snoop is also set to return as a judge on Season 28 of NBC’s popular singing competition, The Voice, airing this autumn. He previously appeared as part of NBC and Peacock’s coverage of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. A new Netflix film features hurtling Japanese bullet train with ticking bomb Commenting on the new collaboration, Snoop said, “Not everyone has the courage and vision to see what Death Row Pictures can bring to the table, but Donna and the NBCUniversal team have always understood, which is why I am proud to call NBCUniversal my new home. The Dogg has officially moved into the neighbourhood, ya dig?” Death Row Pictures, led by Snoop and President Sara Ramaker, includes team members Kevyn Woods, Keifer Moore and Torre Blake. The company will now be headquartered at the Universal Studios Lot in Los Angeles. Snoop Dogg is represented by WME and Yorn Levin.

Director Karan Singh Tyagi has spoken out in support of actress Ananya Panday, who has been facing criticism following the release of Kesari Chapter 2. Tyagi revealed that it was her performance in Gehraiyaan that convinced him to cast her in this historical drama. Released in theaters on April 18, 2025, Kesari 2 features Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan, and Ananya Panday in lead roles. The film, directed by Tyagi, is centered around the tragic Jallianwala Bagh Massacre of April 13, 1919. South Indian Films Releasing in May 2025: Must-watch Lineup While the film industry has largely praised the cast's performances, public reactions have been more divided—particularly regarding Panday’s role. However, Tyagi offered a different perspective. Speaking to News18, he said, “I prefer to focus on the appreciation she’s receiving. Just a couple of days ago at a screening in Hyderabad, I received videos showing audiences applauding during her entry scene. She plays a lone female lawyer in a courtroom full of men—just that visual earned a strong response and, to me, that counters the negativity.” Commenting on the current social media climate, Tyagi added, “That’s just the world we live in now. People are quick to judge and clickbait headlines only add fuel to the fire. But like they say, people will always talk. We need to keep working. I welcome healthy criticism because it can help us grow, but a lot of the negativity online is unwarranted and often turns toxic. It’s unfortunate, but part of the digital age.” Tyagi wrapped up by commending Ananya's commitment to the role. He highlighted how she spent a full year preparing for her character, Dilreet Gill, working on her dialect and body language to convincingly portray a female lawyer. Source: NDTV

Bollywood icons Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan have strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, including two foreign nationals. The actors expressed their grief and anger in heartfelt posts shared on social media platform X. The attack, described as a brutal act of violence, has drawn widespread outrage across the country. Both Shah Rukh and Salman used their platforms to denounce the incident and stand in solidarity with the victims' families. "Words fail to express the sadness and anger at the treachery and inhumane act of violence that has occurred in Pahalgam," Shah Rukh Khan wrote. "In times like these, one can only turn to God and say a prayer for the families that suffered and express my deepest condolences. May we as a Nation, stand united, strong and get justice against this heinous act." Salman Khan echoed similar sentiments, offering prayers and support to those affected. "Deeply saddened by the loss of innocent lives in the Pahalgam attack. My thoughts and prayers are with the families. May peace prevail, and may justice be served," he posted. From Chittisinghpora to Pahalgam: Kashmir’s unending cycle of bloodshed The film fraternity, along with the wider public, has rallied in mourning and outrage following the attack. Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. The attack has once again highlighted the vulnerability of civilians in conflict-prone regions and reignited calls for stronger national security and communal unity. Source: With inputs from India Today

Akshay Kumar’s Kesari Chapter 2 is maintaining a steady performance at the box office. On its fifth day, the film earned ₹4.75 crore, according to data from Sacnilk. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi and jointly produced by Dharma Productions, Leo Media Collective, and Cape of Good Films, the historical drama has now reached a total gross of ₹38.75 crore. As per the report, the film registered an overall 23.25% occupancy in Hindi screenings on Tuesday, April 22. The breakdown of show-wise bookings was 16.66% in the morning, 30.97% in the afternoon, 36.38% in the evening, and peaked at 41.89% during the night shows. Film trade analyst Taran Adarsh noted that the movie performed reasonably well on its crucial Monday. Sharing an update on X, he stated, “Kesari Chapter 2 held up decently on its make-or-break Monday, with evening shows at urban multiplexes showing stronger attendance. The film’s opening day had the advantage of the Good Friday holiday, and while Monday’s hold is encouraging, higher numbers would have been ideal considering the positive word of mouth.” Regarding Tuesday’s collections, Adarsh pointed out that the Blockbuster Tuesdays offer—launched by several major cinema chains with ticket prices starting at ₹99—likely contributed to increased attendance. “A consistent performance throughout the weekdays is now crucial,” he added. Taran Adarsh also shared the film’s day-wise earnings: Friday: ₹7.84 croreSaturday: ₹10.08 croreSunday: ₹11.70 croreMonday: ₹4.50 croreBringing the total to ₹34.12 crore by the end of Monday. With its continued momentum and support from weekday offers, Kesari Chapter 2 is now inching closer to the ₹40 crore mark. Source: With input from NDTV 

Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, Rihanna,Travis Kelce and Simone Biles all won honours at the Webby Awards, which recognize the best internet content and creators. The International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences announced winners Tuesday in a variety of categories, reports AP. The 29th annual ceremony will take place at Cipriani Wall Street in New York on May 12. The Webby Entrepreneur of the Year Award went to Snoop Dogg for breaking through as a versatile businessman with Death Row Records along with two alcohol brands, an ice cream and cannabis brands. Walton Goggins won best actor award for his performances across streaming projects including “The White Lotus,” “The Righteous Gemstones” and “Fallout.” The ceremony will be hosted by comedian-actor Ilana Glazer and will honor major brands and platforms including Nike, Netflix, Letterboxd and Apple. Dr. Fei-Fei Li will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions to artificial intelligence and leadership in advancing human-centered AI. “This year’s winners represent a masterclass of creativity and innovation," said Jesse Feister, executive director for the Webby Media Group. "They’ve harnessed the power of the Internet to drive change, spark conversations and connect us in new ways. With the introduction of new categories, these creators are being recognized for shaping the future of the digital world.” The Oscars mandate voters watch all nominated movies, set new rules for AI and refugee filmmakers The awards started in 1996 by recognizing websites. They have grown to embrace new technologies, from apps and software to social media and games. Google won their first-ever Brand of the Year achievement. NBCUniversal was honored for being best Media Company. Special achievement recipients include Amelia Dimoldenberg, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Jools Lebron, Marcello Hernández, the MeidasTouch Podcast and Norman Teague. Other winners include Lady Gaga for her website, Mariah Carey's “It's Time” partnership with KAY Jewelers, RuPaul's “Drag Race: The Pit Stop," Lamar's “Not Like Us” music video and Brian Cox's “Brian Cox Goes to College.” Some mission-driven organizations that won included The Elton John AIDS Foundation, National Immigration Law Center and the Whitney Museum of American Art. This year marked a new suite of categories that shed a spotlight on the booming creator economy and growing influence of creators. Some of the winners included Zach King, Caleb Simpson and Jameis Winston.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is tightening its rules to ensure greater fairness and engagement in the Oscar voting process. Starting with the next awards season, Oscar voters must watch all the nominated films in a given category to be eligible to vote in that category’s final round. Previously, Academy members were only encouraged to view the nominees and were allowed to vote based on the categories they felt most familiar with. However, the new rule aims to address growing concerns that viewing habits heavily influence which films ultimately win—and that some acclaimed works may be overlooked simply because voters didn’t watch them. The move comes in response to years of criticism, especially after the release of anonymous ballots in which some voters admitted to skipping certain films, particularly longer ones or lesser-known entries. Broader Reforms Address AI, Refugee Filmmakers, and Casting Alongside the viewing requirement, the Academy unveiled several other important rule changes on Monday. In a notable shift for the Best International Feature Film category, filmmakers with refugee or asylum status will now be allowed to represent a country that isn’t their place of birth or citizenship. The new regulation states that a submitting country must confirm that creative control of the film was primarily in the hands of citizens, residents, or individuals with refugee or asylum status in that country. AR Rahman says he prioritises work over friendships This change maintains the traditional structure of country-based submissions but offers greater inclusivity for displaced filmmakers working abroad. The Academy also outlined new regulations related to the growing role of artificial intelligence in filmmaking, as well as guidelines surrounding the newly introduced Best Casting category, further signaling its intention to evolve with the changing industry landscape. These updates reflect a broader effort by the Academy to maintain credibility, transparency, and inclusiveness in the ever-evolving world of cinema. Critics have long called on changes to the nominating process for best international film because it leaves the submission process in the hands of governments, not the academy. That’s left dissident filmmakers working under authoritarian or undemocratic regimes with limited pathways to reaching the Oscars. Last year, for instance, the Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof fled Iran before he was to be flogged and imprisoned for eight years in order to release his film “The Seed of the Sacred Fig.” Germany, where Rasoulof settled, submitted it for the Oscars and it was nominated. But other filmmakers, including Rasoulof’s friend and countryman Jafar Panahi, have released films without a mechanism for submission. The rule change notably won’t alter the Oscar prospects for filmmakers who haven’t fled their home countries or change anything for films passed over by their nation’s selection committees.  

Renowned composer AR Rahman has spoken candidly about his challenges in maintaining friendships, explaining that his deep dedication to music often takes precedence over social relationships. In a recent interview with News18, Rahman shared that while he does have friends, he finds himself consistently absorbed in perfecting his musical work. “Even when I have plenty of time, I delve deeper into my compositions. If creating a song takes eight hours, I don’t stop there—I push further,” he said. “My approach is: more time leads to better output and greater satisfaction. I don’t cut down on work to make space for more friendships.” Describing his creative process, Rahman said it feels like a form of "intoxication." He constantly seeks improvement and innovation in his music. “I keep thinking I can do better and explore new possibilities. In this pursuit, 30 years have flown by,” he added. AR Rahman, wife Saira announce separation after 29 years of marriage Despite the limited communication with peers, Rahman expressed appreciation for the support he received during a recent health scare. When he was hospitalised in Chennai last month, many of his colleagues reached out. “I truly care about my friends. When they heard I was in the hospital, so many singers and directors messaged me. I was touched and made sure to thank them,” he said. On the professional front, Rahman has composed the music for Thug Life, Mani Ratnam’s upcoming film starring Kamal Haasan. The film is scheduled for release on June 5, 2025. Source: With input from NDTV

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary on April 20 with daughter Aaradhya, putting an end to ongoing rumours about their marriage. Dressed in coordinated white outfits, the couple posed for a photo with Aaradhya, which Aishwarya shared on Instagram with a white heart emoji. Abhishek added a splash of colour with red glasses. Their public appearance was warmly received by fans. One commented, “Finally sab thik ho gya…nothing is more important than family.” Another wrote, “So happy to see you guys together in a frame after so long.” Speculation about their relationship had intensified after they were seen separately at Anant Ambani’s wedding. Kesari Chapter 2 Review: Akshay Kumar Fronts a Bold Patriotic Courtroom Saga However, they were later spotted together at the event and at other family functions, including Aaradhya’s birthday and her school’s annual day, reports the Indian Express Most recently, the couple attended a family wedding in Pune, where they danced to their hit song “Kajra Re.” On the professional front, Aishwarya was last seen in Ponniyin Selvan: II, while Abhishek appeared in Be Happy and is set to star in Housefull 5.

Popular wrestling superstar and Hollywood actor John Cena made history at WWE WrestleMania 41, winning his 17th world title and surpassing wrestling's living legend Ric Flair’s legendary 16-title record at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, United States on Sunday night. The dramatic main event saw Cena face Cody Rhodes, with the match turning chaotic when internationally popular rapper Travis Scott interfered, allowing Cena to capitalize on the distraction and secure a controversial win using a 'low blow' and the title belt. The two-night extravaganza, broadcast live on Netflix, attracted 124,693 fans across both nights at the Allegiant Stadium while also enamored wrestling fans across the world, including Bangladesh. In other key moments, popular YouTuber-turned-wrestler Logan Paul shocked the world by defeating one of the most popular wrestlers in the world AJ Styles; Irish superstar Becky Lynch returned from a year-long hiatus to team up with her fellow Irish wrestler Lyra Valkyria and capture the WWE Women's Tag Team Titles, and Dominik Mysterio emerged as the new Intercontinental Champion after defeating Bron Breakker, Finn Balor, and Penta in a fatal-four-way match. ‘A Minecraft Movie’ gives Hollywood major box office boost TNA World Champion Joe Hendry made a surprise appearance, replacing the injured Kevin Owens in his scheduled match against Randy Orton due to Owens’ neck injury. Scottish superstar Drew McIntyre triumphed over Damien Priest in a ‘Sin City Street Fight,’ while the women’s triple threat match saw Iyo Sky retain her Raw Women’s World Championship against Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley. Night one of WrestleMania 41 on Saturday was highlighted by Seth Rollins defeating CM Punk and Roman Reigns in a triple threat match, aided by a shocking betrayal from Paul Heyman, who sided with Rollins. Other winners included the 2025 Royal Rumble winner Jey Uso claiming the World Heavyweight Championship by submitting Gunther, and Tiffany Stratton, who successfully defended her SmackDown Women’s Championship against 2025 Women's Royal Rumble winner Charlotte Flair. In a major announcement before the event, WWE confirmed the acquisition of Mexican wrestling promotion Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide. WWE Chief Content Officer Paul Levesque, popularly known in the wrestling world as Triple H, revealed the move, marking a new chapter in WWE’s international growth. WrestleMania, the flagship event of WWE since its inception in 1985, remains the most iconic and anticipated occasion in professional wrestling, drawing global attention for its high-profile matches and unforgettable moments.

Stand-up comedian Nate Bargatze will host the 77th Emmy Awards, CBS announced Wednesday. One of the most popular stand-ups currently working, Bargatze will emcee the Sept. 14 ceremony at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While the Oscars have found success with Conan O'Brien, set to return in 2026, and the Golden Globes with returning host Nikki Glaser, the Emmys have had a harder time finding a regular host. The last four Emmys have been hosted by Eugene and Dan Levy, Anthony Anderson, Kenan Thompson and Cedric the Entertainer. “Nate is one of the hottest comics in the business with a remarkable and hilarious brand of comedy that deeply resonates with multi-generational audiences around the globe,” said Cris Abrego, chair of the Television Academy. ‘The Great Moose Migration’ captivates devoted fans of Swedish slow TV sensation Bargatze, while yet to emcee a major awards show, is among the most sought-after entertainers, releasing three Netflix specials including December's “Your Friend, Nate Bargatze” and hosting “Saturday Night Live.” With more than 1.2 million tickets sold in 2024, according to Pollstar, he was the top-earning comedian of the year. “It’s a huge honor to be asked to host such an iconic awards show and I’m beyond excited to work with CBS to create a night that can be enjoyed by families around the world,” Bargatze said. Last year's Emmys, hosted by the father-son Levy duo, reached 6.87 million average viewers, according to Nielsen, up 54% from the previous year.