Rihanna Sets the Record Straight Amid Fenty Hair Line Launch

As Rihanna unveils her latest venture, the Fenty hair line, she takes a moment to address rumours swirling in pop culture. Amidst the buzz, speculation erupted when she sported a t-shirt dress emblazoned with the phrase, “I’m Retired.” Now, the superstar singer and entrepreneur shares her side of the story, providing clarity amidst the speculation.

“That was just me looking into the future. I’m not retired. I just like that dress,” Rihanna told “Extra.” “I got it as a gift and I loved it… They didn’t read the second line, I’m not retired, I’m just retired from dressing up — it’s a lot of effort.”

“Wait for the ‘I Quit’ t-shirt,” she joked.

Rihanna last released an album in 2016 with “AntI.” She’s been plenty busy growing both her Fenty empire and her family with rapper A$AP Rocky.

The longtime couple have two sons, RZA, who was born in May 2022, and Riot, who was born in August 2023.

Rihanna told Extra she would love to have a daughter.

“A spicy little girl would be so fun,” she said.

That doesn’t mean immediately, however.

“Can I get my six-pack back first?” she joked to “E! News.”

She was even more specific when talking to “Entertainment Tonight.”

“I’m not pregnant, if that’s what you’re asking,” she told the outlet.

She also said she’s working on new music and beseeched fans to “give me a second!”

Rare Bipartisan Agreement in Senate Judiciary Committee Criticises FDA and DOJ for Failing to Address Youth Vaping Crisis

Three years after a federal court deemed FDA’s actions in violation of the Tobacco Control Act for permitting unapproved e-cigarette products, Senators express frustration as FDA misses deadline for review of e-cigarette makers’ applications.

A recent study reveals a concerning trend: approximately 2.1 million children have taken up e-cigarettes regularly since a pivotal federal court ruling three years ago. What’s more alarming is that the majority of these young users are attracted to flavoured e-cigarette products, raising concerns about their appeal to minors.

Senator Dick Durbin of Illinois sharply criticised the FDA for its sluggish response to this escalating crisis. He slammed the agency for failing to act decisively after missing the court-imposed deadline in September 2021, allowing unauthorised e-cigarettes to flood the market. Durbin’s frustration peaked when he discovered flavoured vapes being sold near the FDA headquarters, highlighting the audacity of their availability despite lacking FDA approval.

Dr. Brian King, director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, defended the agency’s enforcement priorities amidst mounting criticism. He cited the overwhelming influx of 27 million applications for e-cigarette products as a significant challenge, requiring careful allocation of resources.

However, Senator Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee expressed disappointment with the FDA and the Department of Justice representatives’ lack of a coherent plan of action. She emphasised the need for a clear strategy moving forward, expressing concern over the agencies’ seeming inability to chart a path forward in addressing the youth vaping epidemic.

One significant obstacle highlighted by Dr. King was the absence of a funding mechanism for the FDA’s oversight of the e-cigarette market. Unlike pharmaceutical and medical device companies, e-cigarette makers do not pay user fees to fund the agency’s regulatory efforts. This funding gap poses significant challenges for the FDA in effectively regulating the rapidly evolving landscape of e-cigarette products.

The changing landscape of tobacco products poses unprecedented challenges in terms of time and resources for the FDA, according to Dr. King. Despite this, the agency has authorised a mere 23 e-cigarette products since June, none of which are flavoured, while hundreds of thousands of applications await review. Senator Cornyn highlighted a staggering 1,500% increase in flavoured tobacco products sold in the US from 2020 to 2023, presenting flavoured vape products purchased by his staff as evidence of their appeal to children.

Dr. King acknowledged that flavoured varieties often attract youth consumers, with around 90% of e-cigarette users in this demographic opting for flavoured options. Although there has been a decline in overall e-cigarette use among middle and high school students over the past five years, flavoured e-cigarettes remain popular among teens and young adults.

The FDA and DOJ emphasised the enforcement challenges during the hearing, citing thousands of inspections and warning letters issued to manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. However, they admitted limitations in their authority, relying on collaboration with other agencies to combat illegal sales. Recently announced, a task force comprising multiple law enforcement entities will utilise criminal and civil measures to tackle the illicit distribution of e-cigarettes.

Dick Durbin, expressing frustration, directed a pointed question to Arun Rao of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch: ‘What have you been waiting for?’ Rao defended the department’s actions, citing collaborations with agencies like the US Marshals Service and the FDA to seize illicit products. However, Rao admitted to loopholes in the premarket authorization process, exploited by manufacturers who make minor alterations to resubmit their products. Overseas makers sometimes falsify shipments to bypass regulators, contributing to the accessibility of illegal e-cigarettes.

Concerns were raised about China’s ban on flavoured e-cigarettes, contrasting with their availability in the US, prompting criticism from Senator Cornyn. Dr. Susan Walley of the American Academy of Pediatrics highlighted the dangers of nicotine addiction among teens, emphasising its detrimental effects on brain development. She underscored the ease of access to flavoured products, presenting a purchased e-cigarette near a school as evidence.

Walley demanded swift action from the federal government to remove illegal products from the market. Even representatives from the vaping industry expressed dissatisfaction with the FDA’s authorization process.

Tony Abboud, representing the Vapor Technology Association, described the current situation as chaotic, emphasising the lack of a clear pathway through the approval process for vaping products. He warned that without a defined process, the market would continue to be flooded with illicit products.

A Seattle high school senior, Josie Shapiro, shared her firsthand experience with the committee, highlighting the ease of access to vaping products and their misleading perception of harmlessness due to enticing flavours and packaging. Shapiro revealed the impact of vaping on her life and that of her friends, expressing feelings of helplessness and isolation as they struggled to quit amidst addiction. She described how vaping dominated their thoughts and hindered their ability to enjoy quality time together.

Last year, a manipulated image of Pope Francis wearing a trendy white puffer jacket caused a stir online, sparking discussions about his fashion choices and speculation about the involvement of a stylist. However, the image was revealed to be a ‘deep fake,’ generated using artificial intelligence.

This week, Pope Francis is set to address the pivotal topic of artificial intelligence at the G7 summit in southern Italy’s Puglia region. His participation marks a historic moment as he becomes the first pope to engage in discussions at this level, specifically focusing on AI during a dedicated session. Notably, US President Joe Biden, who shares a close rapport with the pontiff, is expected to attend the summit.

At 87 years old, Pope Francis is committed to leveraging the influence of his position to advocate for the ethical development of AI, emphasising its potential to benefit humanity while cautioning against the emergence of unforeseen dangers akin to a modern-day ‘Frankenstein’s monster.’

Drawing from his background in chemistry, the pope welcomes advancements in science and technology, recognizing the promising opportunities AI presents. However, he also remains vigilant about the potential serious risks it may pose.

In a recent communication, Pope Francis issued a cautionary message about the potential emergence of a ‘technological dictatorship’ if proper regulations are not established, particularly emphasising concerns regarding AI-controlled weaponry and the risk of technology being exploited for surveillance and election interference. Stressing the importance of AI serving the ‘common good’ and not exacerbating inequalities, the pontiff has advocated for an ethical framework in its development and application.

The Vatican, through its Pontifical Academy for Life, has been actively promoting the ‘Rome Call for AI Ethics,’ a set of principles including transparency, inclusion, responsibility, and impartiality. Major tech firms like Microsoft, IBM, and Cisco Systems, alongside international organisations and religious leaders, have endorsed this initiative.

At the upcoming G7 summit, Pope Francis is expected to rally global leaders towards collaborative efforts in AI regulation, echoing his previous call for an ‘international treaty’ to curb harmful AI practices. While the European Union has passed legislation in this regard, bipartisan efforts in the United States signal a growing momentum towards federal regulation.

Father Paolo Benanti, a key figure in Vatican discussions on AI, underscores the pope’s focus on the societal impacts of technology, particularly its implications for inequality and misinformation. With a global perspective, Pope Francis recognizes disparities in technology access and aims to address these issues alongside broader humanitarian challenges such as migration and climate change.

According to Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, international regulation is crucial to effectively address the misuse and manipulation of emerging technologies like AI. The Pontifical Academy for Life’s advocacy for ethical AI aims to promote sustainable development for humanity as a whole.

Italy, currently holding the G7 presidency, imposed a temporary ban on ChatGPT due to privacy concerns and plans to enforce penalties for AI misuse. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni believes Pope Francis’ participation in the summit will significantly contribute to establishing an ethical and cultural framework for AI regulation. Meloni emphasises the importance of integrating ethical considerations into algorithmic development, citing the ‘Rome Call for AI Ethics’ as a pivotal step towards fostering ‘algorethics’.

Father Antonio Spadaro, a papal adviser, remarked that Pope Francis’ participation in the G7 summit reflects his commitment to engaging in meaningful dialogues where significant decisions are made. By attending the summit in Puglia, the pope aims to engage directly with policymakers, demonstrating his vision of an actively involved Church in worldly affairs.

Father Philip Larrey, an AI expert and former dean, views Pope Francis’ decision to attend the summit as unexpected yet influential. Larrey anticipates the pope’s presence will have a significant impact on the summit’s outcomes, highlighting the pope’s role as a catalyst for meaningful discussions.

Pope Francis is closely monitoring developments in AI and emerging technologies, seeking to leverage the depth of Catholic tradition to address their ethical implications. His active involvement, notably his presence at the G7 summit, underscores the urgency of his message. Francis advocates for ‘person-centred AI,’ emphasising the need for ethical considerations in technological advancement.

The infamous ‘deep fake’ incident, where an AI-generated image of the pope went viral, highlighted the potential for technology to manipulate visuals. Francis has addressed this issue, warning against the spread of false information and acknowledging his own experiences as a target of such manipulation.

Recognizing AI as a pivotal aspect of the current era’s transformation, Francis aims for the Church to play a central role in shaping discussions around its development. He believes in ensuring that new technologies serve the greater good of humanity.

Oprah Winfrey Recovers from Stomach Virus Episode, Emphasises Hydration and Caution Amid Household Spread

Following a brief stint in the emergency room due to a stomach virus, Oprah Winfrey is now in recovery mode. In a statement to CNN, her representative confirmed that Winfrey sought medical attention for dehydration, receiving necessary IV treatment as advised by her doctor. Despite feeling under the weather, Winfrey assured her friend Gayle King during a video call shared on Instagram that she’s steadily improving, although not yet at full strength.

Expressing concern over the contagious nature of the illness, Winfrey revealed that multiple individuals in her household also fell ill. She stressed the importance of hand hygiene to prevent further spread.

Winfrey’s absence from “CBS Mornings,” where she was slated to announce her latest Oprah’s Book Club selection alongside King and the book’s author, disappointed fans. However, she made sure to share her pick, “Familiaris” by David Wroblewski, via other channels. Despite the setback, Winfrey remains determined, reassuring supporters that she’s on the road to recovery.

The rise of streaming platforms has brought a plethora of international series and movies to viewers, enriching the entertainment options available. American audiences are increasingly open to non-English content, as seen in the popularity of shows like “Squid Game,” “Lupin,” and “Shogun.”

However, even English-language shows from countries like the UK and Australia can present challenges for American viewers due to cultural and linguistic differences. If you’ve found yourself pausing to catch dialogue in series like “Baby Reindeer,” “Peaky Blinders,” “Bodkin,” or “Sexy Beast,” you’re not alone.

This trend is particularly notable among younger adults, who are more inclined to multitask while watching and often choose to use subtitles even for shows in their native language.

In a survey conducted by YouGov in 2023, it was revealed that nearly 40% of respondents in the US prefer watching TV with subtitles, especially when viewing content in their native language. Among those under 30, this preference was more than twice as common compared to those aged 45 to 64.

The survey identified two main reasons for using subtitles: they improve understanding and comprehension, particularly when it comes to deciphering accents.

Netflix, being one of the most widespread streaming platforms, has expanded its content offerings globally and adapted to evolving viewing habits.

The platform has significantly increased the availability of films and series with audio descriptions (AD) and subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing (SDH).

Kathy Rokni, Netflix’s senior director of globalisation, highlighted the importance of providing a seamless viewing experience while remaining true to the original creators’ vision. Rokni emphasised that Netflix’s in-house team of subtitling experts and language managers ensures quality and authenticity in translations.

Rokni emphasised Netflix’s commitment to storytelling that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, noting that 40% of viewing hours now involve subtitles, including SDH, with over half of these instances using subtitles in the viewer’s primary language.

The progress made by Netflix reflects a departure from past practices, such as the dubbing of the Australian film “Mad Max” into American English in 1979 due to concerns about audience comprehension of Australian accents.

British television series have a longstanding presence in the US, exemplified by shows like “Doctor Who” and those featured on “Masterpiece Theater.” However, they have typically catered to a niche audience and specific genres.

In contrast, there’s a noticeable shift today as a wider array of imports, whether in English or other languages, are gaining traction without extensive pre-promotion, akin to the success of “Baby Reindeer” and “Squid Game.” This trend indicates that viewers are actively exploring international content, often discovering it serendipitously via streaming platforms.

Streaming services stand to benefit from this trend, as acquiring series already produced elsewhere tends to be more cost-effective than producing original content, especially given the disruptions caused by last year’s actors and writers strikes.

So, if you’ve recently found yourself captivated by a show that prompts you to read subtitles while watching, whether for comprehension or personal preference, rest assured you’re not alone in this experience.

Apple stands at the brink of what could be one of its most pivotal moments in recent history, as it confronts a barrage of challenges on multiple fronts. The company’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference, slated to commence on Monday, is widely anticipated to herald a significant partnership with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, and introduce a suite of groundbreaking generative AI tools integrated into its mobile operating system.

This strategic foray into AI holds immense potential to catalyze growth in iPhone sales and services for the foreseeable future, particularly as consumers increasingly defer device upgrades amidst economic uncertainty, compounded by lingering effects of the pandemic, particularly in markets like China. Concurrently, Apple finds itself navigating regulatory scrutiny in the United States, exacerbated by recent shifts in market dynamics that saw chip maker Nvidia surpass it as the nation’s second-largest publicly traded company.

Apple’s Chief Executive Officer, Tim Cook, hinted at the impending AI initiative during the company’s latest earnings call, underscoring its strategic significance and positioning within the broader technological landscape. While Apple traditionally adopts a cautious approach to integrating emerging technologies, the rapid proliferation of generative AI is seemingly accelerating its timeline, compelling the company to maintain its competitive edge in the smartphone market.

Anticipation is rife regarding the nomenclature of Apple’s AI endeavor, rumored to be christened “Apple Intelligence” and set to be accessible exclusively on select devices such as the iPhone 15 Pro or those equipped with an M1 chip or newer iterations. Speculation abounds regarding the potential enhancements AI could bring to Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, by leveraging OpenAI’s latest ChatGPT-4o model to imbue it with advanced conversational capabilities akin to those of a chatbot.

Beyond Siri, generative AI holds promise for revolutionizing various facets of Apple’s ecosystem, potentially augmenting user experiences across core applications like Apple Maps, iMovie, and iPhoto. Analysts anticipate Apple’s unveiling to spotlight on-device AI’s manifold benefits, emphasizing its seamless integration into daily routines while elucidating the company’s long-term vision for AI-driven innovation.

Crucially, Apple’s purported collaboration with OpenAI could be pivotal in shaping its AI trajectory, representing a concerted effort to harness external expertise in advancing its technological prowess. However, such partnerships entail inherent risks, potentially impinging on Apple’s autonomy in product development and its unwavering commitment to data privacy and security.

As Apple embarks on this transformative journey into AI, it remains steadfast in its commitment to consumer privacy and security, underscoring the imperative of responsible AI deployment amidst mounting concerns over its ethical implications. Moreover, the company is expected to provide updates on its Vision Pro mixed reality headset, positioning AI as a cornerstone of its immersive experiences strategy aimed at unlocking new frontiers in enterprise adoption.

Ultimately, Apple’s bold foray into generative AI underscores its unwavering commitment to innovation, poised to redefine the future of human-computer interaction while navigating the complex interplay of technological advancement and societal impact.

Bravo’s “The Valley” occupies a space between the youthful antics of “Vanderpump Rules” and the extravagant drama of the “Housewives” franchise, offering viewers a refreshing departure from typical reality TV chaos. Concluding its inaugural season recently, the series diverges from Bravo’s usual formula by portraying the relatable struggles of its mostly 30-something cast, encompassing themes of relationships, parenthood, and career challenges.

Set in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, the show features familiar faces from “Vanderpump Rules” alongside newcomers, all navigating their own versions of an early mid-life crisis. Despite its inevitable messiness (it is Bravo, after all), “The Valley” opts for a more subdued approach, dialing down the cocktail-induced theatrics.

Brian Moylan, a Vulture writer specializing in Bravo content, quickly became a fan of the series, recognizing its unique position within the network’s lineup. With cast members sharing their real-life struggles both on and off-screen, such as Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright’s separation and the Layy’s impending divorce, the show feels notably authentic. Issues like infertility and postpartum depression further contribute to its genuine appeal.

Bravo has already greenlit a second season, signaling a continued exploration of more grounded storytelling. As Moylan notes, “The Valley” offers a refreshing take on reality TV, focusing on themes like child-rearing rather than the typical drama and partying. In a genre often characterized by yelling and name-calling, “The Valley” stands out for its Bravo-worthy authenticity.

Alec and Hilaria Baldwin are set to bring their large family and expected big adventures to TLC. The couple, along with the network, announced on Tuesday that they will be the stars of a new reality series about their family, scheduled to debut on TLC in 2025.

In a video announcement shared on social media, the couple humorously teased an “announcement.” Alec Baldwin quipped, “Good God no!” to which his wife replied, “No definitely not. We’re done having kids.” The video then cuts to the expected chaos of a household with seven children under the age of 10.

“We’re inviting you into our home to experience the ups and downs; the good, the bad, the wild and the crazy,” Alec Baldwin says in the video. “Home is the place we love to be most.”

A TLC representative stated, “Alec and Hilaria Baldwin have been making headlines since they were married nearly 12 years ago. For the first time, they’re opening up their family lives and bringing everyone in to join in the non-stop love, laughter and drama.”

TLC, is part of Warner Bros. Discovery.

In addition to his seven children with Hilaria, Alec Baldwin has an adult daughter, Ireland, from his previous marriage to Kim Basinger. Baldwin became a first-time grandfather last year when Ireland welcomed her own daughter.

More recently, Alec Baldwin has been in the news due to ongoing legal issues. He has pleaded not guilty to an involuntary manslaughter charge in the “Rust” fatal shooting case, related to the 2021 death of the film’s cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins. The trial is set to begin in July in New Mxico.

“The Baldwins” is the working title for the new show.

Los Angeles, CA – Aline Humbert, the multifaceted talent hailing from France, is poised to steal the spotlight at the upcoming Hollywood Fringe Festival with not one, but two captivating productions showcasing her prowess as a writer, director, and actress.

In her solo performance, “If We Were a Movie,” Humbert takes audiences on a whirlwind journey through the complexities of life, love, and mental health. Portraying the character Lily, Humbert deftly explores the nuances of trauma with a touch of humor and lightness, leaving audiences both laughing and reflecting. With six different characters and an intricate staging that pushes her physical limits, Humbert’s performance promises to be a tour de force.

Speaking about her debut play, Humbert expressed gratitude for the opportunity to bring “If We Were a Movie” to life. “It’s incredibly challenging physically,” she shared. “It’s also very dear to my heart. I hope the show can help people with their own issues or at least make them laugh!”

Catch “If We Were a Movie” at The Madnani Theater on June 8th, 13th, 22nd, and 29th. Tickets are available at The Hollywood Fringe Festival.

But that’s not all. Humbert’s talents extend beyond the stage as she takes on the role of director and actress in the comedic mystery, “A Story as Old as Time.” Set against the backdrop of Brooklyn, the play follows NYPD Detective Sergeant Ben Gutierrez as he unravels a series of mysterious deaths linked to a new mummy at the Brooklyn Museum.

In this production, Humbert steps into the shoes of Elisabeth (Liz) Habib, a defense attorney entangled in a web of intrigue and danger. Drawing from her experience as an assistant director in France, Humbert brings a fresh perspective to the director’s chair, breathing life into the characters and storyline.

Reflecting on her directorial debut, Humbert remarked, “Directing made me evolve as an actress and as an artist. I feel incredibly fortunate the writer/producer is giving me so much freedom and trust.”

Don’t miss “A Story as Old as Time” at the JAXX Theater on June 7th, 11th, and 30th. Secure your tickets now at www.hollywoodfringe.org

Aline Humbert’s journey from France to Hollywood is a testament to her passion and dedication to the craft. With a background in acting, directing, and a penchant for storytelling, she is a rising star to watch out for on the entertainment scene. As co-founder and artistic director of Niche Stage Productions in LA, Humbert is poised to make an indelible mark on the industry.

For more information about Aline Humbert and her upcoming projects, follow her at instagram.com/aline_humbert 

Slim Shady is back, but it seems his return might be short-lived. Eminem appears to be bidding farewell to his iconic alter ego in his latest project, an album titled “The Death of Slim Shady.” This highly anticipated release marks a significant moment in the rapper’s career as he signals the end of an era.

Eminem has kickstarted this new chapter by releasing the album’s first single, “Houdini,” which features a sample from the Steve Miller Band’s 1982 hit, “Abracadabra.” True to his style, Eminem’s lyrics are provocative and hard-hitting, taking aim at various figures including Megan Thee Stallion, and even himself.

In the song, he raps, “If I was to ask for Megan Thee Stallion if she would collab with me, would I really have a shot at a feat?” This line references the 2020 incident where Tory Lanez shot Megan Thee Stallion in the feet, an act that resulted in Lanez receiving a 10-year prison sentence.

Accompanying the single is a star-studded music video where Eminem receives assistance from some of his celebrity friends. The video opens with his music manager, Paul Rosenberg, leaving a seemingly critical voicemail about the new album. This is followed by a scene featuring Eminem’s mentor and frequent collaborator, Dr. Dre, who tells him, “We’ve got a problem.” The issue in question is a portal that allows time travel between the present and 2002, setting the stage for a visually dynamic narrative.

The video features cameos from 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, and Pete Davidson, adding to its star power. In a nostalgic twist, Eminem is seen battling his younger self, a scene reminiscent of his 2002 “Without Me” video. This confrontation symbolizes the end of the Slim Shady persona, bringing his journey full circle.

Recently, a faux obituary for Slim Shady appeared in the Detroit Free Press, Eminem’s hometown newspaper. The obituary described Slim Shady as “a rogue splinter in the flourishing underground rap scene,” further cementing the idea that Eminem is closing the chapter on this influential alter ego.

“The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)” is Eminem’s follow-up to his 2020 album “Music to Be Murdered By.” Fans can look forward to the full collection of new music set for release this summer, marking what promises to be another transformative period in the rapper’s illustrious career.