Billie Eilish, at 22, has carved a path in the music industry unlike any other. From her humble beginnings releasing tracks on Soundcloud to her record-breaking albums, she’s always done things her way – and it’s paid off. Now, with her highly anticipated third studio album, “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” set to release, Eilish continues to defy industry norms with her unconventional approach.

Unlike many artists who release singles before an album launch, Eilish intentionally chose not to, keeping fans in suspense until the album’s release date. This move, along with her decision to co-write and produce all her albums with her brother, Finneas O’Connell, has cemented her reputation as an artist unafraid to take risks.

In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Eilish hinted that “Hit Me Hard and Soft” will harken back to her musical roots, capturing the essence of her youth. This authenticity has been a hallmark of her career, setting her apart in an industry often driven by image and persona.

But Eilish’s commitment to breaking the mold extends beyond her music. With her upcoming tour, she’s taking a stand against scalpers by implementing strict ticket transfer restrictions. This move, aimed at ensuring fans have access to tickets at face value, reflects Eilish’s dedication to her audience and her values.

Moreover, Eilish is using her platform to advocate for environmental sustainability in the music industry. In a manifesto posted on her website, she outlined her plan to release a limited number of vinyl variants for “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” produced using sustainable practices. This commitment to reducing waste and promoting eco-consciousness aligns with Eilish’s outspoken stance on environmental issues.

As she prepares to embark on her “Hit Me Hard and Soft” tour, Eilish remains steadfast in her mission to challenge the status quo and redefine success on her terms. With two Oscars, nine Grammys, and two chart-topping albums under her belt, she’s proven that staying true to oneself can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Billie Eilish’s journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, creativity, and resilience in the face of adversity. As she continues to push boundaries and inspire audiences around the world, her impact on the music industry is undeniable.

On Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and a bipartisan group of senators unveiled an extensive blueprint aimed at guiding congressional efforts to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) through forthcoming legislation. This 31-page roadmap, released this week, advocates for substantial government investment to accelerate AI research and development, echoing Schumer’s and others’ previous commitments to bolster U.S. innovation in this fiercely competitive field.

Among its directives, the roadmap tasks multiple Senate committees with devising safeguards to address significant AI risks, including discrimination, job displacement, and election interference. Schumer emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive, bipartisan approach, highlighting the leadership of their AI working group in this endeavor.

The document proposes various measures aligned with established congressional objectives, such as crafting a national data privacy law to empower consumers and regulate AI firms’ data practices. Some recommendations draw inspiration from EU legislation, including a suggested prohibition on AI applications resembling China’s social scoring systems.

Additionally, the roadmap urges the formulation of coherent export control policies for potent AI systems, with considerations for national security. It advocates for substantial annual investment in AI research and development, echoing the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence’s 2021 proposal.

The roadmap’s development involved extensive engagement with stakeholders, including tech giants, civil rights advocates, and industry representatives. It aims to revitalize legislative efforts initiated last year, led by Schumer and bipartisan colleagues.

Schumer has underscored the urgency of regulating AI, particularly in light of the forthcoming elections, expressing a commitment to expedited legislative timelines. However, skepticism remains among analysts and congressional aides regarding Congress’s ability to enact significant AI regulations during an election year.

Meanwhile, the EU has made significant strides in AI regulation, recently approving the landmark EU AI Act. In response to the Senate roadmap’s release, some tech industry figures have expressed optimism, while others have criticized its perceived vagueness in addressing critical AI policy issues.

Notably, some consumer advocates have raised concerns about the roadmap’s focus on certain sectors at the expense of others, advocating for more comprehensive consideration of AI’s societal impacts.

“Are people born wicked?” This question looms large as the latest trailer for the highly anticipated ‘Wicked’ movie, featuring Ariana Grande as Glinda, hints at a more complex and possibly edgier interpretation of the character. Based on the acclaimed Broadway musical, which itself is adapted from Gregory Maguire’s bestselling book, the film promises to offer a fresh take on the beloved story.

The trailer, released on Wednesday, is a visual feast of vibrant colors and aural delights, showcasing the incredible vocal talents of Grande and the Oscar-nominated, Tony-winning Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba. At first glance, it appears to be a jubilant celebration of music and spectacle. However, a closer look reveals nuanced performances, particularly from Grande’s Glinda, who exhibits a pricklier demeanor compared to previous portrayals, such as Kristin Chenoweth’s bubbly Broadway interpretation.

In one of the trailer’s key scenes, Glinda and Elphaba, assigned as roommates, navigate their initial interactions. Glinda’s pink-drenched room serves as the backdrop for a telling moment when she offers Elphaba an unsightly hat, quipping that she doesn’t “hate anybody that much” to actually wear it. This scene hints at a “mean girl” energy from Glinda that contrasts sharply with her traditionally “popular” persona.

As the trailer progresses, Elphaba’s formidable powers become evident, much to Glinda’s dismay. This attracts the attention of headmistress Madame Morrible, portrayed by Michelle Yeoh, who ominously tells Elphaba, “You’re the one the Wizard has been waiting for.” This sets the stage for a journey to the Emerald City, where Elphaba and Glinda encounter the powerful Wizard, played by Jeff Goldblum. It is here that they both start to realize that, as Elphaba ominously states, “Something bad is happening in Oz.”

(From left) Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in ‘Wicked.’ Universal Pictures

The Wizard’s declaration, “The best way to bring folks together is to give them a real good enemy,” injects a political undertone into the narrative, suggesting that director Jon M. Chu’s cinematic adaptation may delve into darker themes present in the original book. This is further emphasized by disturbing propaganda imagery portraying Elphaba as a figure to be feared, including a menacing banner and a giant effigy set ablaze in a town square.

Despite the initial friction, the trailer indicates that Glinda and Elphaba eventually form a deep, sisterly bond. However, it is Elphaba’s journey that captivates the most, culminating in Erivo’s chilling rendition of “Defying Gravity.” As Elphaba soars on her broomstick, she boldly declares, “I’m not afraid. It’s the Wizard who should be afraid of me.”

The eagerly awaited ‘Wicked’ movie, a two-part adaptation, revisits the backstory of Oz before Dorothy’s arrival. It explores the evolution of Glinda and Elphaba’s “unlikely but profound friendship” as their lives diverge dramatically, ultimately leading them to fulfill their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.

The ensemble cast includes Jonathan Bailey, Bowen Yang, Ethan Slater, and Peter Dinklage, among others, promising a rich and dynamic cinematic experience. ‘Wicked: Part 1’ is set to enchant theaters on November 27, with ‘Wicked: Part 2’ following in late 2025.

With its blend of stunning visuals, powerful performances, and a fresh narrative perspective, ‘Wicked’ is poised to captivate audiences and offer a deeper exploration of the beloved tale of friendship, power, and identity in the magical land of Oz.

“OpenAI’s Chief Scientist and Co-Founder Departs Following CEO’s Turbulent Ouster and Return”

Ilya Sutskever, OpenAI’s chief scientist and co-founder, announced his departure from the company on Tuesday, marking the end of nearly a decade-long tenure. Sutskever, who played a pivotal role in the tumultuous removal and subsequent reinstatement of CEO Sam Altman last November, revealed his decision via social media, expressing excitement for future endeavors.

The departure of Sutskever comes amidst a backdrop of significant upheaval within OpenAI. His involvement in the dramatic firing – and subsequent return – of CEO Sam Altman last year underscored the internal management crisis that gripped the organization, ultimately reinforcing Altman’s leadership position in the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence.

The timing of Sutskever’s departure coincides with OpenAI’s unveiling of its latest artificial intelligence model, GPT-4o, a development that has garnered considerable attention for its impressive capabilities.

Sutskever first made headlines six months ago when he voted for Altman’s removal as CEO and chairman of the board, citing concerns that Altman had pushed AI technology “too far, too fast.” However, just days later, Sutskever reversed course, joining an employee letter calling for the entire board’s resignation and Altman’s reinstatement.

Altman’s swift return to the helm of OpenAI, just five days after his initial dismissal, marked a remarkable turn of events. Sutskever publicly apologized for his role in the corporate drama, expressing deep regret and reaffirming his commitment to the company’s mission.

Despite the internal turmoil, OpenAI has continued to make strides in advancing its flagship product, ChatGPT. The latest iteration of the model, announced on Monday, promises to transform ChatGPT into a digital personal assistant capable of engaging in real-time spoken conversations.

Sutskever’s departure signifies the end of an era for OpenAI, marking a significant transition for the organization he helped shape. Alongside Altman and Greg Brockman, Sutskever played a pivotal role in establishing OpenAI LP, a for-profit entity within the larger nonprofit organization, which quickly achieved a valuation of $90 billion.

In response to Sutskever’s departure, Altman expressed sadness but gratitude for his contributions to OpenAI, reaffirming his commitment to the company’s mission moving forward.

Taylor Swift wrapped up her four-night Eras Tour run in Paris on Sunday with a show that seemed perfectly tailored for Travis Kelce.

According to videos posted on social media, Kelce attended the concert alongside supermodel Gigi Hadid and Oscar-nominated actor Bradley Cooper. Throughout the night, Kelce, a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs football team, was seen in videos captured by concertgoers dancing, singing along, and even making Swift’s signature heart symbol with his hands.

This appearance marked the first time Kelce has been seen at an Eras Tour concert since the “Fortnight” singer revamped her setlist to include several songs from her “Tortured Poets Department” collection. Swifties, as her fans are known, were quick to notice and speculate that many of these songs might be about Kelce.

One of the new songs Swift incorporated into her setlist is “So High School,” a track widely considered by fans to be about Kelce. The song’s nostalgic lyrics and high-energy performance resonated with the audience, adding to the excitement of the night.

During her surprise song set, Swift played “The Alchemy,” another “Tortured Poets” track. Fans suspect this song may also be about Kelce due to its football-themed lyrics, featuring buzzwords like “touch down,” “warm the benches,” and “greatest in the league.” These subtle references sent the crowd into a frenzy, further fueling the speculation about Swift and Kelce’s relationship.

In perhaps another nod to Kelce, Swift wore a two-piece yellow and orange ensemble during the “1989” portion of her show. These colors are a probable nod to the Kansas City Chiefs, Kelce’s football team. Swift had worn different color combinations of this outfit on previous nights in Paris, but this particular choice seemed too coincidental to be anything other than a tribute.

Adding to the night’s surprises, Swift once again changed the lyrics during her performance of “Karma” to reference Kelce. Instead of the usual lines, she sang, “Karma is the guy on the Chiefs coming straight home to me,” a playful and personal touch that delighted the audience and fans online.

The three-time Super Bowl champion and Swift have been romantically linked since September after she attended her first football game to watch Kelce play. The couple has since been spotted attending each other’s games and concerts, respectively, showcasing their support and affection for one another.

The Eras Tour has been a massive success for Swift, with each performance bringing new surprises and special moments for fans. Her shows in Paris were no exception, blending her classic hits with newer tracks and adding personal touches that make each concert unique.

The final Paris show was a testament to Swift’s ability to connect with her audience on a deeply personal level. By incorporating subtle nods to Kelce and their rumored relationship, she created an intimate and memorable experience for concertgoers. Fans left the venue buzzing with excitement, not just from the spectacular performances but also from the intriguing glimpses into Swift’s personal life.

Swift now heads to Stockholm, where she will play three shows starting on May 17. As the Eras Tour continues, fans eagerly anticipate more surprises and heartfelt moments. Swift’s ability to blend her music with personal stories and references keeps her audience engaged and coming back for more.

The Paris shows, especially the final night, were a perfect blend of music, personal touches, and emotional performances. Swift’s connection with her fans, combined with the speculated nods to Kelce, made these concerts a standout part of the Eras Tour. As she moves on to the next leg of her tour, fans around the world are eagerly waiting to see what Taylor Swift has in store next.

The late country music icon Toby Keith was honored posthumously over the weekend at the University of Oklahoma’s commencement ceremony. Keith, who passed away from stomach cancer at the age of 62 in February, was informed prior to his death that he would be receiving an honorary doctorate from the university. His daughter, Krystal Keith, accepted the degree on his behalf, as shared in a heartfelt post on his Instagram account.

The caption accompanying photos of Krystal at the graduation ceremony read, “Toby learned he would be receiving an honorary degree from @uofoklahoma last fall, and yesterday, @krystalkeith accepted it on his behalf at the commencement ceremony. Congratulations to all of the OU graduates!”

In April, the university announced its decision to honor Toby Keith, highlighting his multifaceted contributions as a “singer, songwriter, entertainer and successful businessman.” Keith’s illustrious music career boasted more than 10 billion streams and 44 million albums sold. Beyond his musical achievements, his generosity significantly impacted the university and the state of Oklahoma over many decades.

Keith publicly disclosed his battle with stomach cancer in 2022, a condition he had been privately confronting since October 2021. Despite his health struggles, his legacy in music and philanthropy continued to thrive.

As the president of the Toby Keith Foundation, he was well-known for his charitable endeavors. Toby Keith’s personal life was marked by a strong family foundation. He and his wife of nearly 40 years, Tricia Lucas, shared three children: daughters Shelley and Krystal, and son Stelen.

Krystal’s acceptance of the honorary doctorate at the commencement ceremony served as a poignant tribute to her father’s enduring influence and contributions, both within the music industry and the broader community.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is contemplating the implementation of a new requirement for blood banks to adopt a test capable of detecting malaria parasites in certain blood donors. Seeking input from independent advisors, the FDA aims to strike a balance between achieving zero transfusion-related malaria cases and ensuring accessibility to blood donation.

Malaria, identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a significant global health challenge, recorded staggering figures in 2022, with 249 million cases and over 608,000 deaths.

Although malaria doesn’t pose a significant threat to the US blood supply compared to some other nations, approximately 28 million US residents travel to malaria-endemic regions annually. As travel increases and the planet warms, experts predict a potential rise in malaria cases in the US, despite aggressive mosquito control measures.

Historically, the US effectively tackled malaria, notably during World War II when a concerted effort to combat mosquitoes led to a drastic reduction in cases. By 1949, malaria was no longer considered a significant health issue in the US, with the WHO declaring the country malaria-free in 1970. However, sporadic cases persist, mainly travel-related.

In March, the FDA approved the Cobas malaria test, a pivotal development in screening donor blood for malaria parasites. While transfusion-related malaria cases are rare, they can lead to severe complications and even death.

The FDA acknowledges the complexity of current guidelines, which rely on donor history questionnaires. These questionnaires, while useful, have limitations, leading to the disqualification of healthy potential donors. The FDA estimates that between 50,000 to 160,000 donors are deferred annually, with many not returning to donate even when eligible.

To address these challenges, the FDA is exploring two main strategies: selective testing based on malaria history and travel, or universal testing followed by selective testing of at-risk donors. While most advisory committee members favor the former approach, concerns remain about the logistical and practical aspects of widespread testing.

During a public comment period, leaders from blood supply organizations urged the FDA to approach guideline changes cautiously. While acknowledging the potential of the new malaria test to improve blood safety and donor availability, they stressed the need for evidence-based decisions and flexible testing strategies.

The committee refrained from voting on proposed strategies, with the FDA committing to consider the discussion in its decision-making process. As the FDA weighs changes to its guidance, the goal remains clear: to enhance blood safety while ensuring the continued availability of blood donations.

In a whirlwind of comedic triumphs, Nikki Glaser seized the spotlight with razor-sharp wit and infectious humor. The week kicked off with her unforgettable performance roasting none other than Tom Brady on Netflix, a moment that catapulted her into the hearts of thousands of new fans and even landed her a spot on ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show.”

Yet, amidst the flurry of success, Glaser remains grounded, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. “I’ve never felt like when are people going to get it? I’m not one of those people,” she shared in a recent interview. “I always feel like I am getting what I deserve.”

Preparation was key for Glaser as she honed her material for both the Brady roast and her upcoming HBO stand-up special, “Someday You’ll Die.” From late-night sets in Los Angeles to collaborating with a dedicated team of writers, Glaser approached each project with unwavering dedication and a commitment to excellence.

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Her new special promises to delve into the complexities of life, from navigating societal pressures to grappling with personal demons. “It’s just a look at my life right now as I’m approaching 40 and all my friends are having kids and starting families, getting married,” she explained. “[The special explores] how I suffer with depression, even though my life is great, my fear of death, my longing for it at times, with really hard jokes in between.”

With “Someday You’ll Die” two years in the making, Glaser is eager to share her honest and raw perspective with audiences, offering a glimpse into her world with a blend of humor and introspection.

As her week of career highs draws to a close, Nikki Glaser stands poised at the precipice of new beginnings, ready to leave an indelible mark on the world of comedy.

In the wake of a trilogy that concluded with Caesar’s triumphant leadership, the resurrection of the “Planet of the Apes” franchise in “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” faced a daunting challenge: how to breathe new life into a beloved saga without a predetermined roadmap. Yet, against all odds, this latest installment manages to surpass expectations, offering a captivating blend of homage to its source material and a fresh, muscular narrative that revolves around the richly ape-centric concept.

Set several centuries into the future, the film begins with a deliberate pace, establishing a world that is both familiar and yet entirely new. With characters and plotlines reset from scratch, the narrative takes its time to unfold, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in a world teeming with possibility. While the premise of the film initially seems straightforward – a young tribal descendant embarks on a quest to rescue his captured brethren – the story quickly expands, weaving in additional layers of complexity and intrigue.

Audiences, of course, will ultimately decide the fate of “Planet of the Apes,” a franchise that has endured for over half a century since Charlton Heston first uttered those iconic words. Under the stewardship of Disney, the series has evolved once again, navigating the delicate balance between honoring its legacy and forging new ground. In this latest iteration, the story revolves around Noa, voiced with conviction by Owen Teague, whose peaceful existence is shattered by the ruthless forces of Proximus Caesar, portrayed with menacing fervor by Kevin Durand.

Director Wes Ball and writer Josh Friedman masterfully navigate the complexities of this brave new world, deftly setting the stage for a gripping adventure that is as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning. From moments of humor to clever nods to the original film, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of a timeless franchise.

Yet, perhaps the film’s greatest achievement lies in its ability to take a familiar blueprint and breathe new life into it, revitalizing the franchise for a new generation of audiences. While Andy Serkis’s absence is keenly felt, the film manages to stand on its own, offering a compelling vision of a world where apes reign supreme.

In an industry where cash grabs often reign supreme, “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” serves as a reminder that even the most well-worn concepts can be reinvigorated with ingenuity and ambition. Whether audiences embrace this bold new chapter remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the limitless possibilities of cinematic imagination.

In a candid conversation on David Duchovny’s podcast “Fail Better with David Duchovny,” legendary entertainer Bette Midler opened up about one of her career misses, the 2000 CBS sitcom “Bette.” With a career filled with hits, Midler’s discussion shed light on the complexities of navigating the television landscape and the challenges she faced with the ill-fated show.

Midler didn’t mince words when she labeled “Bette” as “a big, big mistake,” acknowledging that her motivations were misguided from the start. Admitting her lack of understanding of the television industry, Midler confessed to being unprepared for the fast-paced environment and hierarchical structure that came with it.

One pivotal moment in the show’s tumultuous journey came with the departure of Lindsay Lohan, who was initially cast as Midler’s daughter in the pilot episode. Lohan’s exit after the pilot left Midler grappling with the chaotic aftermath, as the show underwent significant changes that she hadn’t anticipated.

Reflecting on her experience, Midler expressed regret for not standing up for herself and her show when faced with challenges. She admitted that she underestimated the importance of contracts and the gravity of the situation, which ultimately led to her dismissal from the show.

The pressures of the production schedule also took a toll on Midler, who found the pace of making the show to be taxing both physically and mentally. A memorable appearance on David Letterman’s late-night talk show, where Midler candidly described filming as “the worst thing that’s ever happened” to her, further compounded her difficulties.

Ultimately, Midler’s tenure on “Bette” came to an abrupt end when she was fired after expressing her frustrations publicly. Despite being relieved to be released from the project, Midler’s experience with the show served as a valuable lesson in the pitfalls of the entertainment industry.

Through her candid reflections, Bette Midler’s journey with “Bette” offers a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges that even seasoned professionals face in their careers.