American actor and filmmaker; Oscar winner; longtime political activist
The James Bond casting search has intensified, with frontrunners narrowing and new bets shifting as producers pace the process amid a flurry of interviews and public speculation.
Actor Mark Ruffalo has urged lawmakers to block Paramount Skydance’s $111 billion merger with Warner Bros Discovery, linking the deal to Oracle’s ties to Israel. Paramount calls the rhetoric antisemitic tropes; George Clooney defends Ruffalo’s right to speak. Over 170 Jewish artists have signed a letter supporting Ruffalo. The merger remains under antitrust scrutiny and on hold as debate intensifies.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth faces widespread criticism in Canada after a social media post mocking a Canadian cadet and instructor. The post has drawn condemnation from Canadian officials, the Army Cadet League of Canada, and political figures amid a thawing but tense US-Canada trade dispute. The Pentagon says the post speaks for itself.
The Venice film festival features a four-hour documentary on Elon Musk that critics say is highly critical. Musk has branded the film a hit piece, while director Alex Gibney defends it as rigorous inquiry. The documentary includes AI-generated Musk commentary and details about Musk's business ventures and public presence.
Los Angeles DA Nathan Hochman has decided not to seek the death penalty for Nick Reiner, who is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the December 2025 killings of his parents, Rob and Michele Reiner. Prosecutors say the maximum sentence will be life without parole after a rigorous review and consideration of mitigating factors. The indictment moves directly to trial, bypassing a preliminary hearing. Reiner has acknowledged a history of addiction and mental health challenges.
Presley Gerber, son of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, has died at a rehab facility in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has not disclosed a cause of death. Presley had publicly discussed mental health and addiction struggles, and his family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.
The Medway West branch of a pet charity has launched a low-cost clinic to provide affordable care for pets of people on low incomes or benefits. The service aims to keep animals at home while reducing vet costs, with the branch noting high demand and a growing pet food bank