Netflix denies rumour about plans to exit the Nigerian creative industry.
Giant streaming platform, Netflix has denied reports of plans to exit Nigeria, reaffirming its dedication to the country’s creative industry. Addressing the rumors in an email to The PUNCH, Edafe Onoriode, Group Account Director at Netflix’s PR agency Hill and Knowlton Strategies, stated, “We are not exiting Nigeria. We will continue to invest in Nigerian stories to delight our members.” The speculation began after filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, in a viral video, claimed Netflix had canceled several commissioned projects despite the success of his own films. He expressed disappointment over the platform’s focus on local returns. Netflix has been active in Nigeria since 2016, beginning with film acquisitions and later producing originals like Lionheart. While Nigeria accounts for just 10.5% of Netflix’s African subscribers, the platform expects growth, with subscriptions across Africa projected to reach 2.2 million within five years.
https://twitter.com/the49thstreet/status/1864378746465046536
Tems, Ayra Starr, Ordeal bag nominations for the 2025 MOBO awards.
The 2025 Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards nominees have been unveiled, with Nigerian artists making a strong showing. Asake, Tems, and Ayra Starr are among the contenders for the prestigious Best International Act award, competing against global icons like Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, and Megan Thee Stallion. Nigerian R&B star Ordeal leads the country’s nominations with three nods: Song of the Year for his hit “Soh-Soh,” Best Newcomer, and Best R&B/Soul Act. The MOBO Awards, set for February 18, 2025, also highlight African talent in the Best African Music Act category, featuring Nigerian performers such as Asake, Ayra Starr, BNXN, Ruger, Rema, Shallipopi, and Tems, alongside South Africa’s Tyla and Uncle Waffles, and Ghana’s King Promise. Organizers hailed the nominees as “global stars shining bright,” reflecting African music’s expanding influence on the international stage.
https://twitter.com/afrocritik/status/1864269724760133815
Paapa Essiedu being eyed for Severus Snape role in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter.
British actor Paapa Essiedu has emerged as the frontrunner to portray Professor Severus Snape in HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter TV series, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Renowned for his gripping roles in I May Destroy You, The Lazarus Project, and Gangs of London, Essiedu’s potential casting could bring a fresh perspective to the iconic character, originally played by the late Alan Rickman. The 34-year-old actor, who recently starred alongside Saoirse Ronan in the 2024 drama The Outrun, has gained acclaim for his ability to embody complex characters. While no official casting decisions have been announced, HBO confirmed its commitment to diverse and inclusive casting during an open call for Harry, Ron, and Hermione in September. Set for a 2026 release, the seven-season adaptation will reimagine J.K. Rowling’s beloved books, with Succession’s Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod leading as writer and director, respectively.
https://twitter.com/hollywoodhandle/status/1864439476912541793
Asake becomes the most streamed artist on Spotify NG for a second consecutive year.
For years now, Nigerian artists have dominated the top 10 most-streamed list, highlighting the continuous growth of streaming services in the country. Leading the pack as this year’s most streamed artist on Spotify Nigeria is Asake, whose record-breaking third album, Lungu Boy, achieved 18 million first-week streams on Spotify Nigeria. Since his 2022 breakthrough, Asake has rapidly ascended to global fame with a steady stream of chart-topping singles and albums. His impressive catalog and collaborations secured him the top spot. Seyi Vibez follows in second place, bolstered by his latest project and contributions to Vibe INC’s compilation album. Burna Boy claims the third position, while Wizkid and Rema round out the top five. This all-male top 10 reflects the artists who have commanded the most attention in Nigeria throughout the year, underscoring the strong connection between Nigerian listeners and their homegrown music stars.
https://twitter.com/the49thstreet/status/1864293877886169176
Robert Pattinson hints at retirement before the end of The Batman trilogy.
Hollywood star, Robert Pattinson has hinted at the possibility of retiring before completing The Batman trilogy. Known for his journey from teenage stardom to global fame, the actor recently spoke about his career trajectory in an interview with The New York Times. Pattinson’s portrayal of the iconic superhero in the 2022 Matt Reeves-directed film surprised critics and fans, overcoming initial skepticism about his casting. The movie, intended as part of a trilogy, has its sequel slated for a 2026 release, with filming for The Batman – Part II starting in 2025. However, when discussing plans for a third installment, Pattinson remarked, “I could genuinely be retiring by the end of them.” Reflecting on his acting philosophy, the Twilight star emphasized balance, stating, “The main thing is constantly remembering what your job is. It’s a discipline to not use your energy on anything other than that.”
https://twitter.com/discussingfilm/status/1864426241568207049
