American actress and singer, known for Bizaardvark and High School Musical: The Musical: The Series
Sam Fender and Olivia Dean have achieved the longest-running UK No. 1, spending 19 non-consecutive weeks at the top and surpassing Frankie Laine’s 1953 record. The duet’s ascent began in 2025, with a gradual climb to No. 1 in 2026, aided by Dean’s new verse and live performances. Critics praise its authenticity and emotional depth.
The Edinburgh International Festival cites the need to protect live performance, with a policy banning phones at Queen's Hall concerts after disruptions. Critics argue it signals a broader clash over audience behavior and artistic focus.
Sara Cox has begun hosting BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast Show, moving from teatime to mornings. The launch follows Scott Mills’ departure and features familiar segments with updates for the morning slot, including Tom Hanks as a guest and a football-celebration-driven start after England’s World Cup win. The show runs 6.30am–9.30am.
Album and live review roundup shows veteran icons collaborating with younger artists across genres, highlighting a shift toward genre-blurring rock and electronic influences. Guardians The Guardian notes Loathe's radical departure in A Stranger to You; Scotsman highlights Foreigh Tongues with star guest appearances; Independent spotlights Wolf Alice, Moby, Lorde and CMAT at Madrid festival. Reviews suggest a wave of veteran swagger meeting new electronic and indie sensibilities.
Charli xcx has released Music, Fashion, Film, a 11-track project that blends electronic textures with guitar-driven moments. The artist has explained the release as a reflection on creativity, identity, and the pressures of fame, with responses to Brat and earlier projects.