Tina Knowles has long stood quietly in the wings of pop royalty — a steady, grounded force behind one of the world’s most powerful entertainment dynasties. But in her new memoir Matriarch, the 71-year-old designer and businesswoman steps into the spotlight to share her story: one of love, resilience, and concern for the next generation raised under the relentless glare of fame.

Speaking with Tina ahead of the memoir’s release, one thing becomes clear — her love for her family runs deeper than legacy or success. Despite raising two of music’s most influential artists — Beyoncé and Solange — Tina’s greatest pride today lies in her role as a grandmother.

“[Blue Ivy and I] have a very close bond,” she says with a smile. “I’m so happy she feels like she can talk to me.” Describing her 13-year-old granddaughter as her “beauty guru” and mockingly her “manager,” Tina is clearly charmed by Blue Ivy’s confidence and wisdom. “She’s bossy — a little Capricorn like me,” she adds, laughing.

But beyond the affection lies a quieter worry. “If I had my first choice, [my grandchildren] wouldn’t have to deal with the things that come with fame,” Tina admits. Although Beyoncé and Jay-Z fiercely guard their children’s privacy, Tina fears for what the future holds. “One day they’ll read the ignorance and lies people put out there about them. And I do worry about that.”

Tina’s concern stems not from overprotection, but experience. She’s watched her daughters navigate a world that scrutinizes every move. From the infamous 2014 elevator incident between Solange and Jay-Z, to conspiracy theories questioning Beyoncé’s pregnancy, Tina has seen firsthand the cost of fame.

Still, she’s quick to point out how grounded her children remain. “They’re just great parents. I don’t think you could ask for better,” she says. Beyoncé and Jay-Z, she notes, dedicate an “abnormal amount of time” to their kids and are deeply involved in their upbringing.

As she reflects on her own parenting journey, Tina insists that stardom was never the end goal. “This was not my first choice for my girls,” she says. “They just lived and breathed music. It is their decision. They were born to be entertainers.” Tina’s influence was always present but never controlling. She sewed costumes for Destiny’s Child while running her hair salon and supported her daughters emotionally and creatively — not strategically.

Her memoir, Matriarch, spans generations — from her childhood in 1950s Texas, where her family endured racial harassment, to her life now as a grandmother to four, including Solange’s son Julez and even Kelly Rowland’s children, whom she embraces as her own.

In sharing her story, Tina opens up about deeply personal moments, including her breast cancer diagnosis. “My daughters and my faith carried me through,” she writes. She’s now cancer-free, and her voice is filled with gratitude — not just for survival, but for the life she’s built.

Tina’s pride in her daughters is palpable, but it’s her appreciation of their authenticity that shines. Beyoncé, despite her global acclaim, was once the shy girl who walked into classrooms “trying to be invisible.” Solange, on the other hand, was a “social butterfly,” bold and creative from a young age. That contrast, Tina explains, shaped their distinct paths in music and identity.

Today, both women are cultural forces in their own right. Solange’s Cranes in the Sky earned a Grammy, while Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter — a celebration of Black roots in country music — finally brought her the long-awaited Best Album win at the Grammys.

Beyoncé, Blue, and the Poison Ivy of Fame: Tina Knowles

The album, Tina explains, was born from a place of pain and pride. “She was very influenced by Zydeco and that cowboy culture,” Tina says of Beyoncé’s Southern upbringing. “It’s in her right to make whatever music she feels like making.”

That resilience — to own their narratives and challenge cultural boundaries — is something Tina marvels at. And yet, it’s their devotion to family that seems to touch her most.

Even Blue Ivy, now stepping into the public eye with performances and voice acting roles, isn’t being rushed into fame. “Her mum was like, no, you got time,” Tina says. “If anything, they’re being nurtured to be the best human beings they can be. That’s first priority.”

Despite ongoing interest in their personal lives, Tina says the family is unbothered. “While the world is creating lies and mess, my girls are somewhere in the studio or with their kids, minding their business and living their best life.”

And as for the future? Tina is open to the idea of a film adaptation of Matriarch — but definitely not a reality series. “One of my favorite films is the Jacksons’ story. I just think it’d be great to see our story on film.”

In a world hungry for celebrity gossip, Tina Knowles offers something richer: perspective. Her story isn’t just about raising superstars — it’s about preserving humanity in a world that often forgets it. As she says in her own words, “They are just very sensible people with balance in their life.” And perhaps, that’s the real legacy she’s passed on.

When James Lee Williams, known to millions as The Vivienne, strutted across the stage of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, fans saw fierce makeup, glamour, and talent. But behind the glitz was a private battle that few, including his closest loved ones, knew about.

James, a beloved drag performer, actor, and mainstream entertainer, passed away in January at just 32. The cause of death was revealed by his family as cardiac arrest due to ketamine usage. The news shocked fans and devastated those closest to him, especially his sister, Chanel Williams.

In an emotional interview with BBC Newsnight, Chanel opened up about the heartbreaking truth: the family only learnt about James’s ketamine addiction after watching his confession on Drag Race UK. He had hidden the depths of his struggle to “protect them,” even during the most difficult periods of his life.

“He had a really long period of sobriety,” Chanel said, recalling her brother’s journey. “But we didn’t know about the relapse. We only found out after his death. It breaks my heart wondering—if I had asked more questions, noticed something—could the outcome have been different?”

The Vivienne had been vocal during his stint on Drag Race UK in 2019 about overcoming ketamine addiction. It was a powerful moment—one that resonated with many viewers and earned praise for its openness. But behind the scenes, James was battling in silence.

Chanel believes that very openness created an invisible barrier. “He’d spoken so publicly about having overcome it that going back and saying, ‘I’m struggling again,’ must have felt impossible,” she reflected. “He was at the top of his game—TV shows, West End performances. The pressure to appear okay must have been enormous.”

His tragic death, which occurred in Chorlton-by-Backford near Chester, is now a catalyst for a greater mission. Chanel and her family have turned their grief into a campaign for awareness, working closely with substance abuse charity Adferiad. Their goal is to shed light on ketamine addiction and reduce the stigma that too often silences those suffering.

The Hidden Battle of The Vivienne: A Story of Fame

A full inquest into James’s death is scheduled for June, but his family isn’t waiting to spark change. One of the bold steps they are advocating for is the reclassification of ketamine from a Class B to a Class A drug, which would place it alongside substances like heroin and cocaine in the UK’s legal system.

“Right now, it’s cheap, it’s easy to get, and it’s perceived as less dangerous than it really is,” Chanel warned. “Some younger people see the classification and think it’s harmless. But we know now how devastating it can be.”

The Home Office has acknowledged the growing concern around ketamine use, especially among youth. Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson has already reached out to the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs for recommendations. A spokesperson extended condolences to The Vivienne’s family and reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the issue.

For Chanel, however, this isn’t just about reclassification—it’s about culture. “We need more than legislation,” she said. “We need education, we need healthcare involvement, and we need to create spaces where people can speak without shame.”

Sharing James’s story hasn’t been easy for the family. Talking about his death and the reason behind it came after long and difficult conversations. But ultimately, they chose to speak out with the hope that someone else’s story might end differently.

“Talking about this openly might help one person reach out for help before it’s too late,” Chanel said. “That’s the only thing keeping us going right now—that something good can come out of this tragedy.”

James Lee Williams left behind a powerful legacy as The Vivienne. He was more than a drag superstar—he was a pioneer, an artist, and a symbol of strength in the LGBTQ+ community. But his family hopes that his legacy will now include something even more impactful: saving lives.

“The Vivienne was a trailblazer,” Chanel said. “But James—my brother—was a kind, beautiful soul who wanted to help others. I believe that even in death, he can still do that.”

In the face of loss, Chanel and her family are channelling their pain into purpose. Their mission is not just to remember James but to protect others from suffering the same fate. And through their advocacy, honesty, and resilience, they are doing just that.

As Chanel put it simply, “If I can help one family to not feel what we are feeling, then it’s all worth it.”

LOS ANGELES, CA – Deborah Mesa’s artistic journey began on the stages of Havana, where she first performed at age four with the renowned children’s theatre company Cascabel. Surrounded by costumes, scripts, and the rhythm of live performance, she found her calling early—and never looked back.

By eight, she made her television debut in Los Pequeñines, originally cast as background but quickly promoted to a lead role when directors Roly Peña and Jean Michel Fernández recognized her natural charisma and deep familiarity with the material. It was a pivotal moment that foreshadowed a career defined by preparation, presence, and persistence.

Mesa’s foundation in the craft was shaped under the guidance of the legendary Cuban acting coach Humberto Rodríguez at the Olga Alonso Group, where she studied alongside some of the country’s top emerging talent. By 11, she was performing as Juliet in Romeo and Juliet. At 12, she was cast as Patricia in the TV series Flores con Patricia.

At 14, Deborah earned a highly competitive spot at Cuba’s Escuela Nacional de Arte (ENA), one of the nation’s premier institutions for performing arts. But just two years later, her family relocated to the United States. Still a teenager, she left behind a promising career and began again this time in Miami.

Determined to continue her training, Deborah studied at Prometeo Theater while attending high school. She then set her sights on Los Angeles, enrolling at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where she immersed herself in English-language performance, from Shakespeare to contemporary American drama.

Now based in LA, Mesa is steadily building a multifaceted career across film, television, commercials, and voice-over. Her credits include lead roles in The Delivery, Everything I Need, and La Conducta de la Vida, as well as standout performances in commercials and animated projects. She is bilingual, trained in stage combat and dance (salsa, tango, Afro-dance), and certified in open water scuba diving—adding depth and versatility to her on-screen presence.

With a new television pilot filming this spring and a growing body of work, Deborah Mesa represents a bold new voice in international talent, grounded in discipline, elevated by experience, and driven by a vision that continues to unfold. Follow her journey on Instagram @deborah_mesa96 with exciting projects ahead.

Her dream of earning an Oscar isn’t wishful thinking. It’s the natural evolution of a career built on craft, resilience, and the fearless pursuit of excellence.

If you missed the first weekend of Coachella, fear not. The festival’s second act is ready to stream straight to your couch. With the winds still blowing in the Colorado Desert and the stars returning for round two, Coachella’s encore promises fresh surprises, repeat thrills, and maybe even a few viral moments.

From jaw-dropping pop theatrics to understated indie gems, here are the standout sets you’ll want to catch (or rewatch) from the comfort of your home.

Lady Gaga: Pop’s Dark Opera

Lady Gaga’s return to Coachella was a thunderous reminder of her unmatched performance prowess. Her show was a cinematic journey set inside a crumbling gothic opera house, with visuals that evoked angels, demons, and internal chaos.

Poker Face became a chess match of alter-egos, while Perfect Celebrity—her raw commentary on fame—was staged as a burial duet with a skeleton. It was weird, wonderful, and peak Gaga. The climactic Bad Romance brought the house down in a nine-minute celebratory rave. If you’re only watching one set, this is the one.

Missy Elliott: A Long-Awaited Victory Lap

Missy Elliott made her long-overdue Coachella debut look effortless. Arriving onstage in a giant car-like exoskeleton, she stormed through her genre-bending catalogue with sharp moves and unshakable charisma. Hits like Get Ur Freak On and Pass That Dutch reminded everyone why she’s a legend.

With choreography that could rival acts half her age, Missy proved she doesn’t need decades of live performance experience to command a festival crowd. The only complaint? Her set ended far too soon.

Lola Young: Grit Meets Grace

Lola Young almost didn’t make it through her weekend one set. Battling heatstroke and flu, she warned the audience she might faint or throw up. Instead, she delivered one of the rawest performances of the festival.

Messy, her break-up anthem turned global hit, brought the crowd to life. With her health reportedly back on track, her weekend two appearance is expected to be even stronger—and maybe the redemption arc she deserves.

Green Day: Pure Punk Catharsis

Coachella met its match in Green Day. Billie Joe Armstrong led the band through a no-holds-barred blitz of their greatest hits, with American Idiot updated to poke at contemporary politics. Still, the set stayed mostly free of soapboxes, focusing instead on energy, nostalgia, and crowd connection.

From the bratty energy of Basket Case to the anthemic depth of Boulevard of Broken Dreams, it was a welcome dose of punk rebellion in a glitter-drenched festival.

Post Malone: The Country-Rap Fusion Party

Post Malone brought yee-haw energy to Coachella, repackaging early hits with the country flair of his latest album, F-1 Trillion. It was laid-back, quirky, and honest—exactly what fans have come to expect from him.

Though some missed the harder hip-hop beats, his fans still partied like it was the end of the world. And with no guests on weekend one, there’s buzz that Post might bring out big names for weekend two. With collaborators like Taylor Swift and Dolly Parton in his orbit, expectations are sky-high.

Couchella 2025: The Must-See Sets to Stream from

Jennie & Lisa: Blackpink Goes Solo

Blackpink’s legacy lives on through its stars. Lisa wowed with sharp choreography and sleek visuals, blending gritty rap with softer ballads. Her solo moment solidified her as a standalone force.

Jennie, meanwhile, turned the Outdoor Theatre into a full-on disco club. Like Jennie and Love Hangover got the crowd dancing, while her relaxed stage vibe made her feel refreshingly real in a sea of polished perfection. For fans of the group or pop lovers in general, both sets are worth the time.

Charli XCX: Brat Energy Unleashed

If Coachella had a dancefloor, Charli XCX set it ablaze. Her set was a nonstop rush of hedonistic beats, slick choreography, and laser lights—all delivered solo, until she wasn’t. Halfway through, the Brat era super-team of Troye Sivan, Lorde, and Billie Eilish appeared to the crowd’s delight.

There’s no guarantee they’ll return for weekend two, but Charli’s magnetism is reason enough to tune in again.

Benson Boone vs. d4vd: The Flip-Off

Benson Boone came out swinging—literally—with his signature piano front flip, matched by explosive vocals and unexpected collaborations, including a momentous Bohemian Rhapsody duet with Brian May. He’s shaping up to be 2025’s breakout star.

On the other hand, d4vd’s backflip attempt didn’t quite land. But he recovered, finishing strong with crowd-pleasing versions of his bedroom pop hits. He’s promised to practice for this weekend—so the rematch should be fun to watch.

Gustavo Dudamel & LA Philharmonic: Classical Chaos

In one of the most surprising moments, the LA Philharmonic under Gustavo Dudamel brought orchestral grandeur to the desert. They moved from classical standards to pop and rap, bringing onstage the likes of Beck, Laufey, Maren Morris, and LL Cool J.

Weekend two promises an entirely new set of surprise guests. Even if you’re not into symphonies, this genre-bending experiment is worth a stream.

T-Pain: Nostalgia in Overdrive

T-Pain came dressed like a steampunk prophet of party and delivered hit after hit. Whether covering Journey or diving into early 2000s anthems like Buy U A Drank, he had the crowd in the palm of his hand.

As a surprise favorite, T-Pain’s set stirred up calls for him to headline the next Super Bowl. Over-the-top? Maybe. But after that performance, it doesn’t sound so far-fetched.

Also Worth Your Stream

Megan Thee Stallion brought all-star guests, Belinda Carlisle reunited The Go-Gos, and Sam Fender reminded us that British indie rock still has punch. South African newcomer Tyla impressed with Amapiano-infused pop, and Fcukers had everyone humming Bon Bon by day’s end.

YouTube sensation and philanthropist Jimmy Donaldson, famously known as MrBeast, has issued a heartfelt apology following an underwhelming fan experience at the “MrBeast Experience” hosted at Resorts World Las Vegas. The three-day event, promoted as an immersive and unforgettable adventure, drew backlash from attendees who felt misled and disappointed.

Known globally for his jaw-dropping stunts, charitable giveaways, and massive subscriber base — over 385 million across his platforms — MrBeast has cultivated a reputation for going above and beyond for his fans. However, this recent venture failed to meet expectations, prompting widespread complaints, demands for refunds, and social media uproar.

Promises vs. Reality

The event was advertised as a premium fan experience. Guests were enticed by the promise of exclusive games, limited edition merchandise, a MrBeast-themed food menu, and even mystery bags containing surprises — including the chance to win a $10,000 gift voucher. With some fans spending as much as $1,000 for the weekend, the anticipation was high.

Yet, for many, what followed was not the interactive and memorable experience they had envisioned.

One attendee, Theresa Metta, shared her story with 8NewsNow, expressing her deep disappointment. Traveling to Las Vegas with her mother in hopes of meeting fellow fans and engaging in fun challenges, she found herself instead confined to her hotel room.

“We were told to stay in our rooms and wait for our mystery bags,” she explained. “I legit spent two days waiting for a package to come — and it ended up being a box of chocolates.”

Others echoed the sentiment, describing the event as chaotic and poorly organized. Instead of mini-games, photo ops, or even appearances by MrBeast or his team, fans spent most of their time isolated and waiting, with little to show for their patience.

MrBeast-Apologizes-Las-Vegas-Experience-Disappoints

“This Isn’t What We Hoped”

As criticism mounted, a wave of videos and social media posts began surfacing, some going viral. TikTok users shared footage of lackluster merchandise deliveries — t-shirts in random sizes, some of which were reportedly available online for a fraction of the ticket cost. Many accused both the resort and MrBeast of “false advertising” and exploiting the trust of loyal fans.

The controversy reached a boiling point on Tuesday when a group of frustrated attendees confronted Resorts World CEO Alex Dixon, demanding refunds and answers for what they called a “scam.”

In response to a fan’s complaint on X (formerly Twitter), Donaldson took accountability for the fiasco, tweeting: “This definitely isn’t the experience we hoped they’d deliver. I’m sorry. I’m inviting everyone affected to our studio to make it right.”

While the gesture was appreciated by some, others remain skeptical, citing logistical issues and travel costs as barriers to accepting the studio invitation.

Damage Control

Following the backlash, the event listing was swiftly removed from the hotel’s website. The BBC reached out to both MrBeast and Resorts World Las Vegas for further comment, but no additional statements have been issued at the time of publishing.

It’s still unclear whether full or partial refunds will be provided to attendees.

For MrBeast, who has built a brand synonymous with generosity and grand-scale production, the failed Vegas event marks a rare stumble. From giving away private islands to funding life-changing surgeries, Donaldson has consistently been one of the most impactful creators in the digital space. This incident, however, serves as a reminder that even the most well-intentioned influencers must ensure that their real-world activations live up to the high standards their audiences have come to expect.

Lessons Learned

The fiasco highlights the challenges that arise when online creators transition into live, in-person experiences — particularly those involving third-party partners like resorts and event organizers. When things go wrong, the fallout can affect not only finances but reputations as well.

For fans, the situation has left a mix of disappointment and hope. Many still admire MrBeast’s transparency and willingness to take responsibility, even if they feel let down by the execution.

As the dust settles, this misstep may serve as a valuable learning experience — not just for MrBeast, but for the growing number of digital creators stepping into the world of live events. Authenticity, attention to detail, and clear communication are paramount, especially when fans are investing not just money, but trust and admiration.

And in a world where brand loyalty can shift in a tweet, even the biggest names are only as strong as their most recent experience.

Award-winning rapper and pop provocateur Lil Nas X has revealed he is suffering from partial facial paralysis, sparking concern and support across social media.

The 26-year-old artist, born Montero Lamar Hill, posted a series of Instagram updates on Monday from a hospital bed, candidly sharing his current condition with his 10.4 million followers. In the video, he attempts to smile but visibly struggles, explaining: “This is me doing a full smile right now, by the way… Bro, I can’t even laugh right.”

The Grammy-winning star, known for his viral hit Old Town Road and his unapologetically bold public persona, continued to keep the mood light despite the circumstances. In a follow-up post, he reassured fans: “I’m OK, stop being sad. Shake ur ass for me instead!” He later added humorously, “I’mma look funny for a lil bit but that’s it.”

Fans and fellow celebrities quickly flooded the comments with well-wishes and love. Actress Taraji P. Henson wrote, “Get well baby,” while rocker Shirley Manson simply shared, “Sending you love.” Comedian Wanda Sykes offered a grounded take, saying, “Sometimes your body tells you to sit down somewhere. Rest up.”

Though Lil Nas X did not reveal an official diagnosis, fans and health observers have speculated that his symptoms could point to Bell’s Palsy or Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. Both conditions involve inflammation or damage to facial nerves, typically resulting in temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the face.

Bell’s Palsy is relatively common and often triggered by viral infections or severe stress. In contrast, Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is linked to a shingles outbreak affecting the facial nerve near the ear, sometimes accompanied by hearing loss or tinnitus. Pop star Justin Bieber was forced to postpone parts of his 2022 tour due to Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, sharing similar symptoms including an inability to blink or smile on one side of his face. Bieber has since made a full recovery.

lil-nas-x-hospitalized-with-partial-face-paralysis

Singer and television personality Tulisa Contostavlos has also publicly spoken about her recurring battles with Bell’s Palsy following a horse-riding accident that caused nerve damage. Her experience underscores the importance of early treatment — she noted that episodes could last up to seven months if not addressed within the critical early window.

Despite the challenges, Lil Nas X has kept his characteristic humor and authenticity intact. In one Instagram clip, he panned the camera dramatically from one side of his face to the other, saying, “We normal over here, we get crazy over here!” The post is already being shared widely, as fans appreciate his openness and resilience.

The news comes amid a promotional push for his latest EP, Days Before Dreamboy, an eight-track teaser for the upcoming follow-up to his debut album Montero. In an earlier interview with Atlanta’s Hot 107.9, Lil Nas X admitted to going through a creative and emotional rollercoaster at the start of 2024.

“I was very lost and trying to cater to everybody except myself,” he confessed, reflecting on the pressure to maintain his provocative image and match the expectations of fans and critics alike.

He admitted that at one point, he began creating music he thought the world wanted, rather than what felt true to him: “I started trying to be outrageous all the time… but it’s like, no, sometimes I can just be on my chill [side].”

That chill side — raw, real, and refreshingly unfiltered — is precisely what’s drawing support now. Even as he faces a health setback, Lil Nas X remains an emblem of vulnerability wrapped in unapologetic confidence.

In another recent interview at the GLAAD Awards, he also made headlines by revealing he had turned down a potential collaboration with Taylor Swift. “She offered to let me try a verse on something, but I couldn’t catch a vibe for it,” he said. The comment sparked a flurry of speculation about what the track might have sounded like, and whether the collaboration might be revisited in the future.

For now, however, the artist’s focus is likely on recovery — and fans across the globe are rallying behind him. Whether through heartfelt messages or memes that reflect his own brand of humor, the sentiment is clear: Lil Nas X is not alone in this.

As he put it best: “I’mma look funny for a lil bit but that’s it.” For someone who’s made a career out of breaking boundaries and reshaping what it means to be a pop star in the modern age, this is just another challenge he’ll face head-on — with grace, grit, and just the right amount of sass.

In a historic moment for both pop culture and aerospace, global pop icon Katy Perry is set to trade the concert stage for the stars. Perry, alongside five remarkable women, will be aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket—a pioneering all-female mission that represents a significant step in the evolution of private space travel.

The launch, set to lift off from Blue Origin’s West Texas base, promises not only a thrilling ride beyond the atmosphere but a powerful symbol of female empowerment in a field long dominated by men. This suborbital journey, expected to last around 11 minutes, will carry the crew more than 100 kilometers above the Earth—crossing the Kármán line, which marks the internationally recognized boundary of space. For a few awe-inspiring moments, the crew will experience the weightlessness of space.

Joining Perry on this celestial voyage are Lauren Sánchez—fiancée of Blue Origin’s founder Jeff Bezos—veteran CBS broadcaster Gayle King, former NASA engineer Aisha Bowe, civil rights advocate Amanda Nguyen, and film producer Kerianne Flynn. Together, they form the first all-women team to travel into space in more than six decades. The last time an all-female space mission took place was in 1963, when Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova journeyed solo aboard Vostok 6.

Reflecting on this extraordinary opportunity, Perry shared her excitement on social media, saying that even as a child growing up with limited resources, she always held on to wonder and believed the impossible was within reach. “If someone had told me I’d be part of the first-ever all-female space crew, I would’ve believed them,” she wrote, adding that her imagination has always been limitless.

Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket is a marvel of modern engineering. Fully autonomous and designed for vertical lift-off and landing, the spacecraft separates mid-flight to allow the capsule to climb higher while the booster safely returns to land roughly two miles from the launch pad. The crew capsule is built to carry six passengers and includes features like large windows for Earth-gazing and a parachute system to ensure a gentle return to the desert floor.

Katy Perry’s Journey to the Stars: All-Women Crew to

The women aboard won’t be required to pilot the rocket, as the system runs independently. However, they must undergo two days of intensive training. This includes physical conditioning, emergency preparedness, and acclimation to zero-gravity environments. Additionally, a pair of ground-based support members, known as Crew Member Seven, will offer constant assistance and maintain mission control communication throughout the flight.

Blue Origin, founded by Amazon magnate Jeff Bezos in 2000, is one of the leading players in the burgeoning space tourism sector. While ticket pricing remains partially under wraps, securing a seat on the New Shepard reportedly requires a significant deposit—highlighting how these space ventures remain accessible to only a select few. The company is also working toward creating more sustainable, long-term space infrastructure, including reusable rockets and systems aimed at future lunar landings.

Still, this rise of space tourism hasn’t come without criticism. Many argue that the exclusivity of such missions underscores the vast economic disparity in the world. Actress Olivia Munn voiced her concerns on a recent television appearance, pointing out that many people struggle with basic necessities while others are spending millions to journey into space.

Environmentalists have also expressed alarm over the potential impact of increased rocket launches on the atmosphere. Studies have suggested that the emissions from rockets—particularly the soot released into the upper layers of the atmosphere—could have far-reaching effects on the ozone layer and contribute significantly to global warming. A 2022 study led by Professor Eloise Marais of University College London found that rocket emissions could be substantially more damaging than those from aircraft.

Despite these concerns, many experts continue to advocate for the expansion of human activity beyond Earth. Celebrated physicist Professor Brian Cox emphasised in a recent interview the importance of looking beyond our planet for the future of civilisation, stressing that public-private collaboration in space exploration can be a major catalyst for scientific progress.

Former astronaut Tim Peake has also spoken in defence of space missions, especially those designed to advance scientific understanding and tackle pressing issues like climate change. Speaking at the COP26 summit in Glasgow, he expressed regret that the image of space travel was being increasingly seen as elitist. “I support the use of space for science and the greater good of humanity,” he said, lamenting that private space ventures are often portrayed solely as luxurious escapades for the rich.

As Katy Perry and her fellow crew members prepare to make their journey, this mission is about more than just reaching space—it’s about redefining who gets to dream, explore, and lead. It is a moment that blends celebrity, science, and symbolism into one giant leap for womankind.

Whether you view it as a milestone for innovation or a controversial indulgence, the fact remains: a pop star’s next big performance may just take place among the stars.

Scarlett Johansson has never been one to stay in a single lane. From her days as a breakout teen star to becoming one of Hollywood’s most bankable names and a symbol of artistic depth, Johansson’s career has consistently defied predictability. And now, at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, she’s raising the bar once again—this time appearing on the iconic Croisette both as a performer and a director.

The Oscar-nominated actress and global superstar is playing a pivotal role in Wes Anderson’s latest cinematic wonder, The Phoenician Scheme, while also stepping behind the camera for the very first time with her directorial debut, Eleanor the Great. In a festival packed with promising films and bold debuts, Johansson is not just participating—she’s taking the spotlight by storm.

A Star Returns—In True Wes Anderson Fashion

Fans of quirky aesthetics and richly woven storytelling have much to celebrate. The Phoenician Scheme, directed by Cannes regular Wes Anderson, is already generating buzz as a strong contender for the Palme d’Or—the festival’s highest honor. Featuring a star-studded ensemble including Benicio Del Toro, Tom Hanks, and Scarlett Johansson, the film is said to be a visually eccentric exploration of identity, espionage, and lost civilizations.

Though Anderson is no stranger to Cannes, having had several of his past works featured and awarded, it’s Johansson’s return to such a stylized cinematic world that’s drawing extra attention. Known for her ability to bring depth and vulnerability to even the most abstract of characters, Johansson is expected to deliver yet another unforgettable performance.

From Red Carpet to Director’s Chair

But Johansson isn’t just gracing the red carpet as an actor this year—she’s making a groundbreaking move as a filmmaker. Her directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, is part of Cannes’ official lineup and is competing in the prestigious second-tier category. The film tells the poignant story of an elderly woman navigating life and loss after the death of her closest friend—a quiet, powerful exploration of grief, reinvention, and the beauty of growing old.

The film represents a bold new chapter in Johansson’s career, signaling her evolution from a Hollywood megastar to a creative force ready to shape stories from the other side of the lens. And while celebrity-turned-directors aren’t new to the scene, Johansson’s reputation for thoughtful role selection and her depth as a performer sets high expectations for this debut.

Cannes Backs Female Voices

The Cannes Film Festival has long faced scrutiny for its lack of representation when it comes to female directors. This year, however, the winds appear to be shifting. Festival president Iris Knobloch emphasized this progress in a press conference, proudly stating that the organization is committed to showcasing more women-led projects.

“I am honoured to amplify the voices of women,” Knobloch noted, as she discussed the diverse lineup that now includes six films from female directors competing for the top prize.

Johansson’s inclusion, both on-screen and as a director, aligns perfectly with this renewed focus. Eleanor the Great isn’t just a film—it’s a statement about maturity, empathy, and the often-ignored stories of older women. That Johansson chose such a script for her debut says much about where her creative instincts lie.

Scarlett Johansson Shines Bright at Cannes—On Screen and

A Festival of Firsts and Legends

Johansson is not the only star adding new titles to their résumé this year. Harris Dickinson, a rising British talent recently cast as John Lennon in Sir Sam Mendes’ upcoming Beatles quadrilogy, is also debuting his first directorial film at Cannes. Urchin, a gritty, emotional tale about a homeless man in London, showcases Dickinson’s desire to tell socially resonant stories.

The festival is also drawing attention with entries from celebrated directors such as Jafar Panahi (A Simple Accident), horror auteur Ari Aster (Eddington, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone), and American filmmaker Kelly Reichardt (The Mastermind, featuring Josh O’Connor and John Magaro).

Adding a touch of nostalgia and glamour to the proceedings is the legendary Robert De Niro, who will be honored with an honorary Palme d’Or. Meanwhile, Tom Cruise returns to Cannes with the grand finale of the Mission: Impossible series, adding blockbuster energy to an otherwise auteur-driven lineup.

A Defining Moment

For Scarlett Johansson, Cannes 2025 marks more than just a career milestone—it represents a transformation. She has already conquered the Marvel universe, proven her acting chops with Oscar-nominated turns in films like Marriage Story and Jojo Rabbit, and built a global fan base that spans generations. Now, as she shifts behind the camera, she signals a commitment to storytelling that is personal, reflective, and deeply human.

The dual presence of Johansson at Cannes—first as a star in one of the festival’s most anticipated films and then as a director presenting her vision to the world—reflects a rare kind of creative versatility. And in a year where female storytellers are finally being recognized more widely, her emergence as a filmmaker feels both timely and inspiring.

As the red carpet flashes and the world watches Cannes with eager eyes, one thing is certain—Scarlett Johansson is no longer just a leading lady. She’s a leader in cinema.