Denzel Washington receives his minister’s license after being baptized.
Two-time Academy Award-winning actor, Denzel Washington has embraced a new chapter in his faith journey. On Saturday, the 69-year-old Gladiator II star was baptized at the Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ in Harlem, New York. He also received a minister license, paving the way for future ordination. The ceremony, live-streamed on Facebook, featured Denzel sharing his reflections just days before his 70th birthday. “In one week I turn 70. It took a while, but I’m here,” he said, encouraging others by adding, “If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you.” His wife, Pauletta Washington, tearfully expressed pride in her husband’s spiritual commitment, calling him the “head of our house.” The actor’s baptism follows a recent essay in Esquire, where he discussed the challenges of openly embracing religion in Hollywood.
Denzel Washington has been baptized and received his minister’s license.
He is now Minister Denzel Washington. pic.twitter.com/2iZttabW17
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) December 22, 2024
YouTube announces plans to launch a crackdown on click baiting videos.
Streaming service, YouTube is tightening its measures against egregious clickbait to combat misleading content and provide viewers with accurate, reliable information. This refers to video titles or thumbnails that promise something not delivered in the video, often in critical areas like breaking news or current events. Examples include videos titled “The president resigned!” that never address such claims or thumbnails labeled “Top political news” with no relevant content. Such tactics frustrate viewers, particularly those seeking timely information. To address this, YouTube plans stricter enforcement against misleading titles and thumbnails, starting in India over the next few months. Creators will have time to adapt to the updated rules before they take effect. Initially, the platform will remove offending content without issuing strikes, focusing on new uploads. YouTube will also prioritize educating creators about these changes to ensure compliance moving forward.
YouTube launches MASSIVE clickbait crackdown. Videos will be deleted that doesn’t deliver what was promised.
• Misleading thumbnails
• False promises in titles
• News/current events focusStarting in India, then rolling out globally 🌎 pic.twitter.com/25P9J9bxb4
— keep6ixsolid (@keep6ixsolid) December 22, 2024
Gunna thrills over 5,000 people at his Lagos’ headline concert.
American rapper, Gunna made his Lagos debut headlining the first night of Flytime Fest, a four-day celebration of the African Diaspora. Performing at the Eko Convention Center, Gunna took the stage around 3 a.m. for a crowd of 5,000 fans. The Atlanta rapper delivered hits like “One of Wun,” “Drip Too Hard,” and “Yosemite” before surprising fans with a guest appearance by South African singer Tyla. The duo performed their collaboration “Jump,” with Tyla captivating the audience in a pilot’s cap, sequined mini skirt, and black bustier. After their duet, Tyla performed her single “Push 2 Start,” even handing the mic to an enthusiastic fan. Burna Boy also made a guest appearance, performing crowd favorites like “Tested, Approved & Trusted.” Gunna’s electrifying set capped Rhythm Unplugged, a Flytime Fest tradition spotlighting Nigerian and global talent.
🚨Gunna & Tyla performs "Jump" for the first time in Lagos, Nigeria 🇳🇬 🤩 pic.twitter.com/CBsaHqGLuG
— HYPETRIBE (@hypetribeng) December 23, 2024
Mufasa: The Lion King grosses $122.2 million in the global box office.
Disney’s newly released animated drama, Mufasa: The Lion King led the global box office this past weekend but fell short of expectations. Directed by Barry Jenkins, the prequel to 2019’s The Lion King opened with $35 million domestically, far below the projected $50+ million. Internationally, it earned $87.2 million, bringing its worldwide total to $122.2 million—well under the anticipated $180 million. China was the top overseas market with $7.8 million, followed by France ($7.7 million) and Mexico ($7.1 million). In India, the film performed better, grossing around ₹48-49 crore, partly thanks to voiceovers by stars Shah Rukh Khan and Mahesh Babu. While the film hopes to recover during the holiday season, it is unlikely to match the original Lion King, which grossed $1.66 billion globally. Critics have given Mufasa a similar reception, but its long-term prospects remain uncertain.
‘MUFASA: THE LION KING’ earned $122M on its worldwide box office opening weekend.
The film had a $200M budget. pic.twitter.com/AitD14wFHW
— The Hollywood Handle (@HollywoodHandle) December 22, 2024
A recap of Rema’s sold out concert at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
The Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) in Lagos was electrified as Rema delivered a spectacular concert that thrilled fans. The evening began with a dramatic stage entrance, setting the tone for an unforgettable night. Known for his high-energy performances, Rema treated the crowd to a mix of his greatest hits and tracks from his latest album, HEIS. A standout moment was his heartfelt interaction with fans, as he expressed gratitude for their unwavering support. The crowd’s energy was contagious, with fans singing and dancing along to every beat. Adding to the excitement, special guest Darkoo joined Rema for a surprise performance of their hit collaboration, “Favorite Girl.” Other notable appearances included Bnxn and members of the Mavins, elevating the night further. As the show ended, Rema promised to return soon, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his next performance.
Rema performing “Is It A Crime?” at his concert in Lagos pic.twitter.com/kvx508THvb
— 49th. (@the49thstreet) December 22, 2024
