Category: Entertainment

• Nicole Kidman misses the Venice Film Festival acting honour due to the death of her mother, Janelle Kidman, aged 84.
• She arrived in Venice to accept the best actress award for her film Babygirl but left after receiving the tragic news.
• Halina Reijn, the film’s director, accepted the award on Kidman’s behalf and read a heartfelt statement from the actress.
• In her statement, Kidman expressed shock and gratitude, dedicating the award to her mother, who had a significant impact on her life.
• The cause of Janelle Kidman’s death is not yet known, but Nicole had previously returned to Australia to care for her mother.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-08/kidman-mother-death-venice-film-festival/104324992

• Astro Bot beats Mario at his own game, delivering a masterclass in inventive design and a celebration of PlayStation’s history.
• The game features over 50 levels where players help Astro rebuild his ship and collect missing bots while exploring various gaming environments.
• Astro’s gameplay mechanics include precise controls, haptic feedback, and the ability to adopt powers from iconic PlayStation characters, enhancing the overall experience.
• Each world includes special levels inspired by classic Sony franchises, cleverly integrating nostalgia without overshadowing the core gameplay.
• With stunning visuals and creative level design, Astro Bot stands out as a top platformer of its generation, appealing to both nostalgic players and new audiences.

https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/rs-gaming/playstation-astro-bot-review-beats-mario-1235094764/

• Alec Baldwin involuntary manslaughter appeal has been filed by prosecutors seeking to reinstate charges after his trial was dismissed in July.
• The dismissal occurred due to a judge’s ruling that evidence was withheld by law enforcement and prosecutors during the trial.
• Baldwin was initially charged following the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film Rust in 2021.
• Prosecutors argue that the undisclosed ammunition was not relevant to the case, while Baldwin’s defense claims it was intentionally buried to influence the trial’s outcome.
• The judge’s dismissal of the charge was made with prejudice, meaning it cannot be revived after appeals are exhausted.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-05/alec-baldwin-prosecutors-appeal-dismissal-charges/104313222

• Unlocking the Earthen in World of Warcraft: The War Within requires completing the main story campaign and specific quests related to the new race.
• The Earthen are the first Allied Race available to both Horde and Alliance factions, differing from previous races like the Pandaren.
• Players must finish the entire War Within campaign, including five chapters after reaching level 80, to access the Earthen questline.
• The Earthen race offers various classes, excluding Death Knight, and starts at level 10 in the Halls of Awakening with short introductory quests.
• Unique racial abilities and passives, such as Azerite Surge and Titan-Wrought Frame, enhance gameplay and provide advantages while exploring Azeroth.

https://kotaku.com/world-of-warcraft-the-war-within-unlock-earthen-race-1851639349

• Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce face fresh relationship rumors as a ‘fake’ PR plan schedules a break-up, leading to speculation about their authenticity.
• Leaked documents allegedly detail a media strategy for their split, claiming it was set for September 28.
• Kelce’s PR team, Full Scope, has denied the documents’ authenticity, calling them “entirely false and fabricated.”
• Fans and critics have dismissed the leaked plan as unrealistic, likening it to a college assignment or AI-generated content.
• The situation has fueled skepticism about the couple’s relationship, with some suggesting it may be a strategic move to bolster their public images and earnings.

https://www.perthnow.com.au/entertainment/taylor-swift-and-travis-kelce-face-fresh-relationship-rumours-as-fake-pr-plan-schedules-break-up-c-15939491

• Cult Of The Lamb introduces Corrupted Relics and Tarot Cards in its Unholy Alliance update, enhancing gameplay with unique effects.
• The update, released in August 2024, also features co-op gameplay and various new items and mechanics.
• Corrupted items have both positive and negative effects, adding chaos and excitement to combat.
• To unlock these items, players must defeat the final boss and then intentionally die during a crusade to access the goat statue.
• The update also includes new normal relics and tarot cards, ensuring a rich experience for both new and returning players.

https://kotaku.com/cult-of-the-lamb-corrupted-relics-tarot-cards-guide-1851638196

• Resident Evil mobile ports reportedly need an internet connection now, impacting their performance and sales.
• Recent updates for Resident Evil 4, 7, and Village on iOS enforce this requirement during startup.
• Users speculate the internet connection may be for data collection or DRM checks, though this is unconfirmed.
• Some players have expressed interest in requesting refunds due to the new requirement, although sales figures suggest limited impact.
• The mobile versions of these titles are considered less appealing compared to console or PC experiences, especially with touchscreen controls.

https://www.vg247.com/resident-evil-mobile-ports-apparently-need-an-internet-connection-now

• US rapper Fatman Scoop dies after collapsing on stage during a performance in Connecticut at the age of 53.
• The incident occurred at Hamden Town Centre Park, where he was assisted by concertgoers and paramedics before being taken to a hospital.
• Born Isaac Freeman III in Harlem, he gained fame with his hit “Be Faithful” and was known for collaborations with artists like Missy Elliott and Mariah Carey.
• His family described him as a radiant soul and a source of joy, emphasizing his positive impact on their lives and the music community.
• Tributes from fellow artists highlight his energy and lasting influence in the music industry over more than two decades.

https://www.smh.com.au/culture/music/us-rapper-fatman-scoop-dies-after-collapsing-on-stage-20240901-p5k6vi.html

• Metal Gear Solid 4 might be coming to modern platforms soon, as fans hope for a release beyond the PS3.
• Konami producer Noriaki Okamura hinted at the possibility during a conversation with IGN, suggesting awareness of the demand for MGS4.
• The upcoming Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 is speculated to include MGS4, along with other titles like Peace Walker and MGS5.
• Fans are eagerly awaiting news on the collection’s official unveiling and release date.
• The franchise is currently in a transitional phase, with no clear successor to Hideo Kojima since his departure.

https://gameranx.com/updates/id/506565/article/metal-gear-solid-4-might-be-coming-to-modern-platforms-soon/

• Atlus RPG Metaphor: ReFantazio is inspired by the Persona and Shin Megami Tensei series while being accessible to new players.
• The game features a rich narrative involving political intrigue, revenge, and a mix of Western fantasy and modern societal issues.
• Combat is dynamic and turn-based, incorporating a variety of Archetypes and a unique Synthesis attack mechanic for team-up abilities.
• Players must manage relationships and make choices that affect both combat abilities and character development through a system called Royal Virtues.
• Metaphor: ReFantazio is set to release on October 11 for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC, showcasing a promising blend of storytelling and gameplay.

https://www.polygon.com/impressions/444848/metaphor-refantazio-preview-pc-ps5-xbox

• Foamstars is transitioning to a Foamstars Free-To-Play Release model on October 4, 2023, after a lackluster reception since its February launch.
• The game, developed by Square Enix, features colorful characters engaging in foam-based PvP combat but failed to impress players.
• Initially released as a $30 game, Foamstars struggled to find an audience, leading to its shift to a free-to-play format.
• Players who download and play the game before the transition will receive “Legacy” gifts, including exclusive skins and a new board.
• The announcement raises questions about the fate of other recent PlayStation titles, such as Concord, which may also consider a free-to-play model due to poor reception.

https://kotaku.com/foamstars-free-to-play-square-enix-october-ps5-ps4-pc-1851632964

• Unlock Ultimate Valby Guide: Ultimate Valby is a new, powerful water-based character in The First Descendant, offering enhanced DPS abilities and a unique design.
• Players can acquire Ultimate Valby by grinding missions for materials, spending 2,250,000 gold, and waiting up to 90 hours for research tasks.
• The final research request costs 900,000 gold and takes 36 hours, after which players can obtain Ultimate Valby from Anais.
• Alternatively, players can purchase Ultimate Valby immediately using Caliber, with bundles available at different price points, including a Premium option.
• Ultimate Valby maintains the same skills as her original counterpart but offers small stat boosts and a visually appealing design, making her a desirable choice for new players.

https://kotaku.com/the-first-descendant-ultimate-valby-unlock-guide-1851632830

• Oasis reunion tour dates have been announced, marking the band’s first reunion since 2009 with Liam and Noel Gallagher burying the hatchet.
• The band will perform a series of live concerts across the UK and Ireland in 2025, including four shows each at Wembley Stadium and Heaton Park.
• A total of 14 live dates are scheduled between July and August 2025, with additional shows in Cardiff, Edinburgh, and Dublin.
• Despite past feuds, the Gallagher brothers express excitement about the reunion, with Noel stating their collaboration brings “greatness.”
• Oasis, known for their significant impact on the Britpop era, sold over 75 million records worldwide and set records with their iconic concerts.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-27/oasis-reunion-noel-gallagher-liam-gallagher/104269800

• Mariah Carey family tragedy occurred when her mother Patricia and sister Alison both died on the same day, as announced by the singer.
• Carey expressed her heartbreak in a statement, feeling blessed to have spent the last week with her mother before her passing.
• Alison, who was estranged from Carey, died at 63 from complications related to her organ function while in hospice care.
• Patricia, a Juilliard-trained opera singer, inspired Carey from a young age, despite their complicated relationship detailed in Carey’s memoir.
• Carey’s memoir reveals her emotional struggles with her mother and sister, describing their relationship as a mix of pride, pain, and complicated love.

https://www.smh.com.au/culture/celebrity/mariah-carey-s-mother-and-sister-die-on-the-same-day-singer-says-her-heart-is-broken-20240827-p5k5l9.html

• Nintendo Indie World Direct and Partner Direct are set for August 27th, 2024, featuring 40 minutes of news and announcements about indie and third-party games for the Switch.
• The event will take place at 7am PT / 10am ET / 3pm BST / 4pm CEST, with Nintendo confirming that the Switch’s successor will not be revealed during this showcase.
• Anticipated titles include games like The Plucky Squire, Mina The Hollower, and Rift of the NecroDancer, with hopes for unexpected surprises.
• The announcement has sparked speculation about a potential major Direct in September, as well as discussions about upcoming releases and holiday titles.
• Viewers can expect a mix of indie games and third-party announcements, with many hoping for updates on previously rumored titles and new game reveals.

https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2024/08/nintendo-indie-world-and-partner-direct-announced-for-tomorrow-august-27th-2024

• A bunch of new Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater screenshots have just dropped, showcasing various game elements, including combat.
• The battle damage system has been notably improved, displaying Snake’s wounds during combat.
• The Camouflage Index System highlights Snake’s different uniforms and face paints with enhanced detail.
• The user interface has undergone an overhaul, now featuring a transparent overlay that integrates with gameplay.
• While no release date is confirmed, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC later this year.

https://press-start.com.au/news/playstation/2024/08/26/a-bunch-of-new-metal-gear-sold-delta-snake-eater-screenshots-just-dropped/

• Jenna Ortega quit Twitter after encountering explicit AI porn content featuring her teenage self, expressing her disdain for AI’s misuse.
• Chappell Roan has urged “superfans” to respect her privacy and boundaries, highlighting the discomfort caused by intrusive behavior.
• Macklemore canceled his Dubai concert to protest the UAE’s alleged support of a paramilitary force in Sudan amid ongoing humanitarian crises.
• Canadian director Matthew Rankin won top honors at the Melbourne International Film Festival for his film Universal Language, which explores cultural themes.
• Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber welcomed their first child, a son named Jack Blues Bieber, surprising fans with the announcement.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-26/jenna-ortega-chappell-roan-macklemore-justin-bieber-miff-awards/104269070

• Early Wukong Tips emphasize the importance of investing Spark Points in skill trees for optimal early-game success in Black Myth: Wukong.
• Dragon Age: The Veilguard showcases a more action-oriented mage class, adapting traditional spell-slinging for a new combat style.
• Sonic X Shadow Generations includes a remaster of a classic game and a new story mode featuring Shadow, along with a collector’s edition packed with nostalgic goodies.
• Overwatch 2’s 12th season introduces a new support hero, Juno, alongside a balance patch addressing hero issues and a new gameplay mode.
• Fortnite’s latest season features a hidden quest with Gwenpool, requiring players to accidentally discover it rather than find it on the map.

https://kotaku.com/black-myth-wukong-skills-game-deals-1851630379

• Justin and Hailey Bieber welcomed their first child, named Jack Blues Bieber, with the name reflecting family significance.
• Justin confirmed the news on Instagram on August 23, celebrating with a heartfelt post.
• The name “Jack” honors Justin’s father, Jeremy Jack Bieber, continuing a family tradition of “JB” initials.
• Hailey chose to keep her pregnancy private until the second trimester, wanting to enjoy the experience without stress.
• Justin has expressed a desire to expand their family, stating he is open to having as many children as Hailey wants.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1406479/meaning-behind-justin-and-hailey-biebers-baby-name-revealed

• Shadow Of The Erdtree Tooth Whip is a unique whip weapon in Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, ideal for players interested in inflicting Poison status effects.
• It has a weight of 3.0 and requires specific stats to wield, making it a strategic choice for certain builds.
• The Tooth Whip features the Ash of War: Painful Strike, which deals physical damage and causes a Poison build-up on enemies.
• The weapon can be upgraded to +10 using Somber Smithing Stones, enhancing its effectiveness in combat.
• To find the Tooth Whip, head east from Bonny Village, cross a bridge, and loot a corpse inside a dilapidated shack.

https://kotaku.com/elden-ring-shadow-erdtree-tooth-whip-guide-1851625687

• Dragon Age is getting a fantasy podcast series starring all the companions in The Veilguard, featuring an eight-part narrative format.
• The podcast, titled Dragon Age: Vows & Vengeance, premieres on August 29, 2024, with new episodes released weekly.
• It includes podcast-exclusive characters voiced by notable actors like Mae Whitman and Matt Mercer, alongside the companions from The Veilguard.
• Dragon Age: The Veilguard is set to launch on October 31, 2024, and will emphasize a party of protagonists rather than focusing solely on Solas.
• The game will feature extensive dialogue, customizable difficulty options, and will import choices from previous Dragon Age games.

https://www.ign.com/articles/dragon-age-getting-a-fantasy-podcast-series-starring-all-the-companions-in-the-veilguard

• Fortnite Season 4’s secret Gwenpool Quest is activated by finding a hidden location at The Raft, not marked on the map.
• Players must locate a pink prison cell at The Raft and press the listen button to start the quest.
• The first task involves defeating a guard to obtain an ID chip, which must be returned to Gwenpool.
• After obtaining the ID, players need to enter the password “CYNTHIA” at a computer to progress in the quest.
• The final step requires collecting three electronic parts around The Raft and returning them to Gwenpool to complete the quest.

https://kotaku.com/fortnite-chapter-5-season-4-secret-gwenpool-quest-1851625432

• Abbie Chatfield calls Blake Lively ‘deeply unlikeable’ during a heated rant about the marketing of It Ends With Us.
• Chatfield criticized Lively’s portrayal of a domestic violence victim, claiming it glamorizes abuse and lacks depth.
• She described the source material as poorly written and cliche, comparing it to fan fiction and calling it unrealistic.
• Chatfield expressed frustration over the missed opportunity for a genuine representation of domestic violence in the film.
• She suggested that domestic violence survivors should lead discussions about the film instead of Lively, who she believes is unqualified to address the topic.

https://www.perthnow.com.au/entertainment/confidential/abbie-chatfield-calls-blake-lively-deeply-unlikeable-during-heated-rant-about-it-ends-with-us-marketing-c-15782354

• Jennifer Lopez files for divorce from Ben Affleck after two years of marriage, marking the end of their high-profile relationship that began in the early 2000s.
• The couple, known as “Bennifer,” had a brief engagement before parting ways and later reunited in 2021, getting married in 2022.
• Lopez’s divorce filing was reported to have a separation date of April 26, 2024, with no mention of a prenuptial agreement.
• The couple celebrated two weddings in 2022, including a quick ceremony in Las Vegas and a larger event in Georgia, with Lopez describing the Las Vegas wedding as the “best night of their lives.”
• Lopez recently canceled her 2024 North American tour to spend time with family, following the release of her album “This Is Me… Now,” which was inspired by her relationship with Affleck.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-21/jennifer-lopez-files-divorce-ben-affleck/104250622

• Black Myth: Wukong tops Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring for most Steam players, reaching 1.4 million concurrent players shortly after release.
• The game became the most-played AAA title on its first day on Steam, breaking records with 1.8 million concurrent players by evening.
• Its popularity is attributed to China’s lack of AAA games, making it highly anticipated among gamers and developers alike.
• Analysts now predict the game could reach 10 million in sales, significantly higher than the initial estimate of 5 million.
• Players have praised the game’s graphics, character design, and battle scenes, although some note its challenging difficulty for newcomers.

https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3275227/chinas-aaa-game-black-myth-wukong-tops-cyberpunk-2077-elden-ring-most-steam-players

• Phil Donahue dies aged 88, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer of daytime talk shows that influenced many prominent hosts.
• He was known for his innovative format, featuring audience participation and focusing on a single guest per episode.
• Donahue’s show tackled controversial social issues, including feminism, civil rights, and consumer protection, beginning with an atheist as his first guest.
• Over its 26-year run, The Phil Donahue Show won 20 Emmy Awards and became a staple for political and social discourse.
• In addition to his talk show, Donahue collaborated with Soviet journalist Vladimir Posner and directed the Oscar-nominated documentary “Body of War.”

https://www.smh.com.au/culture/tv-and-radio/pioneer-of-daytime-talk-shows-phil-donahue-dies-20240820-p5k3o1.html

• Honkai: Star Rail March 7th Build Content follows the introduction of a new DPS version of the character March 7th, who is now essential to gameplay.
• The recent 2.4 update allows March 7th to switch paths, enhancing her role as an Imaginary Hunt character with surprising flexibility.
• Players can unlock March 7th by completing the “March to Mastery: A Star Is Born” mission, despite her training event not being a direct unlock.
• March 7th’s adaptability allows her to excel as a versatile character, particularly when paired with allies that focus on Break DMG or Crit Rate DMG.
• Ideal Light Cones for March 7th include “In The Night” and “Baptism Of Pure Thought,” with options for free-to-play players available in Herta’s Store.

https://kotaku.com/honkai-star-rail-march-7th-the-hunt-path-build-guide-1851625301

• Logie Awards 2024 sees Larry Emdur, dubbed “television’s most axed man,” win the Gold Logie after 40 years in the industry.
• Netflix’s Boy Swallows Universe wins multiple awards, with 15-year-old Felix Cameron taking home best actor and most popular new talent.
• Comedian Sam Pang humorously critiques the ceremony’s broadcaster, Channel Seven, during his hosting duties.
• The awards recognize significant achievements, including Seven’s coverage of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and Rebecca Gibney’s induction into the Logies Hall of Fame.
• Utopia wins three awards, including best scripted comedy, while Celia Pacquola delivers a memorable, candid moment during the broadcast.

https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/article/2024/aug/19/logie-awards-2024-larry-emdur-gold

• Logies key moments include Larry Emdur winning the Gold Logie for the most popular person on Australian television.
• Sam Pang’s opening monologue featured humorous jabs, including a dig at Olympian Rachael “Raygun” Gunn, who made a surprise video appearance.
• Emdur reflected on his 40-year career during his acceptance speech, humorously noting his reputation as “television’s most axed man.”
• The ceremony celebrated various achievements, with Felix Cameron winning the Graham Kennedy Award for Most Popular New Talent.
• Rebecca Gibney was inducted into the Logies Hall of Fame, and tributes were paid to John Farnham with performances by Guy Sebastian and Jessica Mauboy.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-19/logies-2024-awards-key-moments-wrap-larry-emdur-gold-logie/104240378

• The 2024 Logies Gold Logie Race has begun, featuring Australia’s biggest television stars on the red carpet.
• The 64th annual Logie Awards are taking place in Sydney, showcasing live updates and highlights from the event.
• Deborah Mailman celebrates her sixth Logie win, emphasizing the importance of First Nations narratives in her work.
• Tony Armstrong reflects on his Gold Logie nomination, expressing a desire for greater recognition of Indigenous Australians in media.
• The event includes emotional tributes and memorable speeches, with various nominees and winners sharing their experiences and hopes for the future of Australian television.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-18/the-2024-logie-award-winners-announced-live/104205644

• Gold Logie Winners Time is marked by celebrities arriving on the red carpet for Australia’s prestigious TV awards night.
• The Gold Logie is the top prize in the Australian TV industry, celebrating significant talent despite its polarizing history.
• Denise Scott, nominated for best lead actress, recently overcame breast cancer while working on the ABC’s Mother and Son reboot.
• This year’s red carpet showcases a shift towards streaming success, with shows like Boy Swallows Universe and Deadloch gaining attention.
• The ABC leads with 51 nominations, highlighting its dominance in various categories, including drama and comedy.

https://www.smh.com.au/culture/tv-and-radio/logies-2024-live-updates-red-carpet-winners-gold-logie-time-20240818-p5k39c.html

• MW2 multiplayer mod shutdown occurred when Activision issued a cease and desist letter to the H2M mod team just before its planned launch.
• The H2M mod aimed to recreate the multiplayer experience of the original 2009 Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 using the remastered version.
• Excitement for the H2M mod led to a surge in sales for Call of Duty Modern Warfare Remastered, which reached its highest peak on Steam since 2017.
• Activision has a history of shutting down ambitious mods, having previously taken similar action against the SM2 mod in May 2023.
• The next installment in the Call of Duty series, Black Ops 6, is scheduled for release on October 25, 2024.

https://venturebeat.com/games/activision-shuts-down-h2m-mod-call-of-duty/

• Dane’s Armor Set location can be found in Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, featuring a stylish design but minimal damage protection.
• The armor set consists of four pieces, with Dane’s Hat obtained from Dryleaf Dane after completing his quest in Scadu Altus.
• Players must explore two locations to collect the full armor set, starting with Dryleaf Dane near the Moorth Ruins.
• After acquiring the hat, players should fast travel to the Recluses’ River Upstream Site of Grace to find the remaining pieces by navigating cliffside paths.
• The remaining pieces include the Dryleaf Robe, Dryleaf Arm Wraps, and Dryleaf Cruissardes, allowing players to achieve a complete and stylish look.

https://kotaku.com/elden-ring-shadow-erdtree-danes-armor-set-guide-1851619536

• Grinspoon’s new album release, whatever, whatever, is their first in 12 years and arrives just in time for a national tour.
• The album showcases a heavier sound reminiscent of their classic hits, with standout tracks like ‘Unknown Pretenders’ and ‘Never Say Never.’
• Producer Oscar Dawson’s influence is evident, enhancing the album’s sonic range while featuring backing vocals from Ali Barter.
• Grinspoon continues to hold their status as Australian rock icons, demonstrating renewed energy and purpose after a long hiatus.
• Fans can expect a mix of grunge intensity and catchy melodies, making whatever, whatever a significant addition to their discography.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-14/new-albums-grinspoon-jack-white-christine-anu-quivers/104219734

• Tony Armstrong Gold Logie nominee has transitioned from an ex-AFL player to a prominent TV presenter in under five years, potentially making history as the first Indigenous winner of the award.
• After being sacked from the AFL, Armstrong shifted to media, hosting shows like Yokayi Footy and ABC News Breakfast, earning multiple Logie nominations.
• He emphasizes the importance of self-worth beyond career achievements, reflecting on his identity after leaving professional sports.
• Armstrong expresses a desire to inspire Indigenous Australians through his recognition in the media, highlighting the significance of representation.
• He shares insights on career changes, the importance of commitment, and his aspirations in acting, showcasing a blend of humor and introspection.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-14/tony-armstrong-gold-logie-interview-chit-chat/104218672

• Byron Bay Bluesfest 2025 will mark the final edition of the festival, ending a cherished three-decade run.
• Organisers expressed deep regret over the decision, noting the challenges faced by the music industry amid rising costs.
• The festival, held since 1990, is closing following the cancellation of other major events like Splendour in the Grass and Falls festival.
• Bluesfest director Peter Noble emphasized the festival’s significance to the community and urged fans to attend the last event in April.
• The festival industry in NSW is under severe pressure, with concerns about its future due to high costs and other economic factors.

https://www.theguardian.com/culture/article/2024/aug/14/bluesfest-byron-bay-music-festival-nsw-to-end-after-2025-after-35-years

• Visions of Mana Demo Guide Content provides insight into the demo’s offerings and what transfers to the full game upon release.
• The demo features a tutorial section followed by an open field with collectibles, side quests, and an optional battle arena.
• Players can explore a town for equipment upgrades and engage in story events before facing a Kraken boss battle.
• Completing the demo can take over two hours, but skipping certain sections can reduce the time significantly.
• Save data from the demo allows players to unlock three bonus weapons in the full game, but demo progress does not carry over.

https://kotaku.com/visions-of-manner-demo-guide-does-it-carry-over-1851618271

• Pokémon Misty voice actress dies at the age of 46, following a breast cancer diagnosis in May.
• Rachael Lillis was known for voicing multiple Pokémon characters, including Misty, Jessie, and Jigglypuff.
• Her passing was announced by co-star Veronica Taylor, who expressed deep sorrow and highlighted Lillis’ extraordinary talent and kindness.
• Lillis’ sister confirmed her peaceful passing and mentioned a GoFundMe that raised $98,000 for medical expenses and cancer research.
• The Pokémon Company International recognized Lillis’ impactful performances, stating she will be cherished by fans for generations.

https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/article/2024/aug/13/rachael-lillis-death-voice-actor-pokemon-dead-dies-aged-46

• Abbie Chatfield defends FBoy Island against patriarchy criticism, stating the show aims to humorously critique patriarchy and men without being overly earnest.
• She believes the show offers accessible feminist insights for a standard reality TV audience, particularly those who may be conservative or unaware.
• Chatfield emphasizes her unique role as a host who can call out sexism in real-time during the show.
• The second season features a new cast of contestants, including various men from different professions and backgrounds competing for love or cash.
• Abbie expressed disappointment over the show’s lack of nominations at the Logies, highlighting her desire for recognition.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-13734517/Abbie-Chatfield-defends-Fboy-Island.html

• NYT Strands today provides hints, spangram, and answers for game #161, themed “Home stretch?”
• The unofficial hint suggests “Extra rooms and extensions” to help players understand the theme.
• The spangram for today’s puzzle is BONUSSPACES, which connects to the theme of home extensions.
• Players found it challenging, needing multiple clues to grasp the puzzle’s concept, including words like DECK and PATIO.
• The final word, TERRACE, was located backwards in the bottom left corner, completing the puzzle.

https://www.tomsguide.com/gaming/nyt-strands-today-hints-spangram-and-answers-for-game-161-sunday-august-11-2024

• Scott Cam discusses the Scott Cam auction mistake, advising future contestants to renovate for the market rather than personal taste to avoid unsold properties.
• The previous season of The Block saw homes struggle to sell, with House 2 failing to meet its reserve price of $2.97 million.
• Cam highlights that poor design choices, like small kitchens, contributed to disappointing auction results for some contestants.
• Real estate expert Shelly Craft emphasizes the importance of focusing on either flipping properties or creating family homes to avoid overwhelming potential buyers.
• The upcoming 20th anniversary season of The Block promises drama, including personal challenges for contestants, with hints of relationship issues among couples.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-13729907/The-Block-Scott-Cam-reveals-homes-Channel-Nines-hit-renovation-struggled-sell-auction.html

• Simone Holtznagel and Jono Castano split shortly after their daughter Gia was born, shocking fans with the news in May.
• Friends and family had warned Simone that her modeling lifestyle clashed with Jono’s fitness influencer career.
• The couple’s relationship troubles became apparent when Jono shared vacation photos in Thailand shortly after Gia’s birth, with Simone absent from the images.
• Following their split, Simone moved to Wollongong with their baby, while Jono remains in Sydney managing his gym.
• Despite the separation, Simone and Jono are reportedly on amicable terms and are committed to co-parenting Gia.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-13726647/Why-Simone-Holtznagel-Jono-Castano-split-baby-born.html

• Adelaide Harvest Rock festival cancellation marks the latest setback in the music festival scene, with the event’s October concerts cancelled.
• Organisers cited a “difficult decision” to postpone the festival, with no future date provided for its return.
• The cancellation follows a trend of music festivals in Australia facing challenges, including Groovin The Moo and Vintage Vibes.
• South Australia’s Tourism Minister expressed disappointment but reassured that taxpayers would not bear the financial burden of the cancellation.
• The festival’s producers, Live Nation, have indicated struggles within the industry, prompting concerns over the future of music events.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-09/harvest-rock-music-festival-cancelled/104206432

• Taylor Swift Vienna concerts canceled due to a foiled plot involving chemical substances found in a suspect’s home.
• The cancellation left tens of thousands of fans devastated, many of whom had traveled from around the world for the events.
• Two suspects, a 19-year-old and a 17-year-old, were arrested for planning an attack outside the concert venue, inspired by extremist groups.
• Authorities confirmed that the suspects had bomb-making materials and intended to cause significant harm to concertgoers.
• Concert organizers announced that all tickets would be refunded and emphasized the decision was made for public safety.

https://apnews.com/article/austria-taylor-swift-concerts-canceled-extremism-arrests-17b494f1a164b205128d7faeb607e731

• Taylor Swift stadium tour security is a concern as large-scale concerts attract young crowds, making them potential terror targets.
• Experts highlight that mass gatherings are appealing to political extremists due to their opportunity for high visibility and impact.
• Authorities canceled multiple Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna after an alleged terror plot was uncovered, leading to the arrest of two suspected extremists.
• Concert venues are considered “soft targets,” making them easier to attack compared to more secure locations like government buildings.
• Survivors of past concert attacks emphasize the importance of security and express relief when authorities take preventive actions, reflecting on the trauma experienced during such events.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-08/taylor-swift-concert-cancelled-terror-threat/104199174

• Taylor Swift’s Vienna concerts cancelled due to an attack plot, with organisers prioritizing safety following official arrests.
• Austrian authorities arrested two suspected extremists, one of whom had a focus on the upcoming concerts.
• The main suspect, a 19-year-old, reportedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and was radicalized online.
• Security measures were heightened for the concerts before the cancellation, with a special focus on entry checks.
• All tickets for the cancelled concerts will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days.

https://www.smh.com.au/world/europe/taylor-swift-concerts-in-vienna-cancelled-over-attack-fears-organiser-says-20240808-p5k0m5.html

• Inquisition Sex Scenes, Ranked From Worst To Best highlights the various romantic encounters in Dragon Age: Inquisition, showcasing the best lovers in Skyhold.
• Solas ranks lowest due to lacking a sex scene, as he ends his relationship with the Inquisitor before it becomes intimate.
• Josephine’s romance is more subdued and poetic, culminating in a sweet moment rather than a full sex scene.
• Iron Bull and Cullen feature prominently with highly rated scenes, combining elements of dominance and emotional depth in their relationships.
• The article suggests that Dragon Age: Inquisition remains a significant entry in the series, setting the stage for the upcoming Dragon Age: The Veilguard.

https://kotaku.com/dragon-age-inquisition-sex-scene-iron-bull-solas-cullen-1851615735

• NYT Connections Hints and Answer reveal the categories for today’s game, including “Cram,” “Restaurant Jobs,” “Electromagnetic Spectrum,” and “Things with Bits.”
• The objective of Connections is to group 16 words into sets of 4 based on common themes or ideas.
• Players have only four attempts to submit their guesses, making strategic thinking essential.
• The hints provided for the 422nd game include specific words that belong to each category, aiding players in identifying connections.
• There is no guaranteed method to approach Connections, but familiarity with various topics can enhance performance in future games.

https://www.howtogeek.com/todays-nyt-connections-hints-and-answer-for-august-7-422/

• Final Fantasy 14’s Kirlirger Hunt content has players frantically searching for the elusive S-Rank mark, Kirlirger the Abhorrent.
• Kirlirger was introduced in the Dawntrail expansion and requires specific weather conditions to spawn, which puzzled players for days.
• The S-Rank hunt became a community challenge, with players experimenting with various tactics to summon Kirlirger, including dressing as merchants and using spells.
• Kirlirger ultimately appeared three days after release, triggered by a rare combination of a new moon and fog in the Urqopacha region.
• The hunt showcased the creativity and determination of the player community, turning the search into an entertaining spectacle despite the frustration.

https://kotaku.com/final-fantasy-14-dawntrail-s-rank-hunt-kirlirger-1851614627

• Billie Charli make history with their remix of “Guess,” achieving the biggest debut for a female remix on Global Spotify, surpassing Taylor Swift and Ice Spice’s previous record.
• Charli XCX celebrates her first US Spotify #1 since 2014 and Billie Eilish features on the remix for the first time.
• Aerosmith announces their retirement from touring after Steven Tyler’s vocal injury, marking the end of an era for the iconic rock band.
• Julia Louis-Dreyfus pledges her support for Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign, indicating her involvement in the upcoming Democratic National Convention.
• Legal issues arise from the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony as DJ Barbara Butch receives threats, and Nicky Doll sues Laurence Fox over defamatory comments.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-05/aerosmith-retire-from-touring-billie-eilish-charli-xcx/104183198