Opinion – Authentic queer representation is still vital
For a community that faces discrimination both online and offline, genuine portrayal of queer joy in shows such as Heartstopper and Red White & Royal Blue deserves to be praised. Given how difficult everyday living is, many of us take to cinema or television to escape. For the queer community,...
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Bradley Cooper faces backlash for new ‘Maestro’ prosthetic
The actor’s upcoming portrayal of Leonard Bernstein is drawing criticism for being an exaggerated makeup transformation. Many are suggesting it promotes antisemitic stereotypes of Jewish people. The lengths an actor will go to in physically transforming themselves for a role is often hailed as a testament to their craft. Bradley Cooper's...
Noname addresses Jay Electronica’s antisemitism verse
Last week, rapper and musician Noname released her second studio album, ‘Sundial’. Jay Electronica features on the third track ‘balloons’, spouting antisemitism. Noname has responded saying that listener disappointment doesn’t faze her. Chicago rapper and poet Noname released her second studio album ‘Sundial’ last week. She has received sizeable...
Is the US justice system ‘making an example’ of Tory Lanez?
Canadian rapper Tory Lanez has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for shooting fellow music artist Megan thee Stallion back in 2020. His lawyer believes the justice system has unfairly charged him due to his celebrity status. It’s safe to say that our personal lives were pretty stagnant...
Thinness obsession is shaping women’s socio-economic mobility
Debates around the economics of weight have gone on for decades. But with a return to uber-slim beauty standards and a rise in viral weight-loss medications, the idea that being thin can make you more successful has gained new traction. The ostensible ‘ideal’ of thinness has permeated Western society for...
What’s happening with Travis Scott and his pyramid show?
Travis Scott’s ‘Utopia’ album launch party in Egypt was cancelled, then it wasn’t. Now it is again. Given his recent concert controversies, should he even be attempting such a performance in a country that heavily censors artists and is anti-LGBTQ? After many unclear updates, it is now confirmed that Travis...
Opinion – Reality TV is a breeding-ground for exploitation
X Factor star Lucy Spraggan has spoken publicly about her experience on the reality show, describing it as an ‘abusive relationship.’ Reality TV has been divisive for about as long as it's been on air. Whether you love it or hate it, these shows continue to pull in ratings, luring hordes of wannabe-stars who are ill-prepared for the complexities of fame. Lucy Spraggan, a former X Factor contestant who found overnight stardom...
How Okutoyi and Jabeur are popularising African tennis
Hailing from Africa, tennis players Okutoyi and Jabeur have become an inspiration for young women, showcasing the power of dedication, talent, and resilience in pursuit of one's dreams. In sport, few narratives are as captivating and inspiring as the rise of young athletes breaking barriers and defying odds. Such individuals are 19-year-old Angella Okutoyi and 28-year-old Ons Jabeur, rising stars in the world of tennis. Okutoyi, born and raised in...
San Diego Comic-Con goes ahead without Hollywood star power
The pinnacle of geek fandom, the San Diego Comic-Con, has finally gotten back underway after a two-year Covid hiatus. Due to ongoing actor strikes, however, star power will not be a key draw at this convention.
Seriously, no A-list actors at the San Diego Comic-Con!
After a two year hiatus, the globally renowned San Diego Comic-Con is back underway over the next few days.
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Is celebrity investment in grassroot change a good thing?
Stormzy and Beyonce are some of the latest public figures to use their wealth for social good. But are these endeavours just token gestures? In the past year, celebrities have been more open in sharing financial investments – specifically those aimed at supporting grassroots communities. Stars have been leveraging their wealth and status for the ostensible good of underprivileged people and organisations. Stormzy recently invested in his childhood football club, Croydon...
