RAYE started crying after she learned she had earned three 2025 Grammy nominations.
The 27-year-old performer has nods for best new artist, best engineered album – for her work on Lucky Daye’s ‘Algorithm’ – and songwriter of the year, non-classical.
She has now revealed she was not expecting to be included in the nominations, as her debut album ‘My 21st Century Blues’ was released before the eligibility period began.
Speaking about the day the nominations were announced in November, RAYE told People: “You know them days where you’re just so mean to yourself? I was overthinking everything.
“I was like, ‘What if that’s it now? What if my career’s over?’”
Born Rachel Agatha Keen, the singer added one of her team members tuned into the nominations announcement live stream – and said their news of how she had been included then brought her to tears.
She added: “I started crying, and I feel like my entire career flashed before my eyes.”
Her ‘My 21st Century Blues,’ released in February 2023, has already earned RAYE widespread critical acclaim and a global hit with its single ‘Escapism’ – as well as six BRIT Awards and a Mercury Prize shortlist spot.
But she added the Grammys represent a lifelong dream.
She said: “When I was little, the first image I saw was that gorgeous golden gramophone.
“For a British girl, you watch the Grammys at home, like, ‘Wow, one day maybe I’ll make it there.’ Now I’m actually going to attend. It’s real!”
Reflecting on her songwriting nomination, RAYE said: “That one hit differently. At 14, I was like, ‘I want to be a great songwriter.’ That is my goal.” Referring to how she has written for artists such as Beyoncé and Ellie Goulding, she added: “It’s such a beautiful thing to have grown in that skill.”
RAYE has been vocal about fair treatment for songwriters and hinted at addressing the issue if she wins.
She said: “It wouldn’t be right if I didn’t, because I’ve just seen the other side.”
The Grammys will air from the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on 2 February.
British singer RAYE was overwhelmed with emotions after receiving three Grammy nominations this year. The talented artist couldn’t hold back her tears as she shared the news with her fans on social media.
RAYE, known for hits like “Love of Your Life” and “Natalie Don’t”, expressed her gratitude and disbelief at being recognized by the prestigious music awards. She thanked her fans for their unwavering support and promised to keep making music that resonates with her audience.
The singer’s emotional reaction to the nominations was met with an outpouring of love and congratulations from fans and fellow artists alike. Many took to social media to celebrate RAYE’s well-deserved success and wish her the best of luck at the upcoming Grammy Awards.
With her raw talent and heartfelt music, it’s no surprise that RAYE’s hard work has been recognized by the music industry. Here’s hoping that she continues to shine and make waves in the music world for years to come.
The NBA unveiled the “reserves” for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game on Thursday evening, finalizing the 24-man player pool. And for the first time in the 2020s, no Dallas Maverick was selected, as Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic weren’t chosen by the NBA coaches, despite both finishing in the top six of Western Conference guard voting.
Doncic’s exclusion wasn’t a surprise; he’s been hurt since Christmas Day with a calf strain and has played in just 22 of Dallas’ 49 games to this point. There’s no games-played requirement for the All-Star Game like there is with postseason awards, so Doncic technically could’ve been selected, but it’ll also give him another week to rest.
Irving’s exclusion was shocking to many people around the NBA, including former NBA Champion and a former teammate of Kyrie Irving, Kendrick Perkins. He had this to say on ESPN
“I look at a guy like Steph Curry making the All-Star Game this season, and I look at a lot of guys like Kyrie Irving, Devin Booker, De’Aaron Fox, just in this conference who had better seasons, or are playing better than [Curry]. I’m going to say the quiet thing out loud: Steph Curry should not be an All-Star. He shouldn’t! No matter what the fans want, no matter what the coaches want, no matter what we want to see, you still have to earn to be an All-Star by your production. And if you’re looking at the production around the league, it’s guys in the Western Conference that have better numbers than Steph, and their teams are in better positions than Steph.”
June 8, 2018; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Kendrick Perkins (21) during the second quarter in game four of the 2018 NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors at Quicken Loans Arena. The Warriors defeated the Cavaliers 108-85 to complete a four-game sweep. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images / Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Comparing just Stephen Curry and Kyrie Irving, Perkins has a point. Irving is averaging 24.3 PPG, 4.9 RPG, and 4.6 APG while shooting nearly 50/40/90, while Curry is at 22.1 PPG, 6.2 APG, and 4.6 RPG, but isn’t as efficient from three or the floor as Irving is (the degree of difficulty on Curry’s threes are higher, for what it’s worth).
Irving also has the Mavericks at 26-23, sitting 9th in the Western Conference, while Curry’s Warriors are 24-24 in 11th. At the very least, it’s neck and neck, but Curry was voted as a starter, while Irving will be spending the week at home, barring an injury replacement being needed.
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Former NBA champion and current analyst, Kendrick Perkins, recently voiced his opinion that Kyrie Irving deserved an All-Star nod over Steph Curry this season. Perkins argued that Irving’s performance on the court this season has been exceptional and that he has been a more impactful player for the Brooklyn Nets than Curry has been for the Golden State Warriors.
Perkins praised Irving’s scoring ability, playmaking skills, and leadership on the court, emphasizing that he has been a key factor in the Nets’ success this season. He also pointed out Irving’s impressive stats, including his scoring average and shooting percentages, as evidence of his All-Star caliber performance.
While Curry is undoubtedly one of the greatest shooters in NBA history and has had a strong season as well, Perkins believes that Irving’s overall impact on the game should have earned him a spot in the All-Star game over Curry.
It’s clear that opinions on this topic may vary, but it’s interesting to hear a former NBA champion like Perkins make a case for Irving over Curry. Do you agree with his assessment? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan’sreunion has been revealed and it’s… a Super Bowl commercial!
In the new ad released Wednesday for Hellmann’s mayonnaise, the “When Harry Met Sally” co-stars are right back where it all started, sitting in New York City’s famous Katz’s Delicatessen, where one of the most iconic scenes from the 1989 film took place.
When Sally Met Hellmann’s Super Bowl commercial
“I can’t believe they let us back in this place,” Crystal says to Ryan in the commercial. When Ryan asks “Why?” Crystal says “Hello…,” nodding to the famous, hilarious deli scene from the classic.
“Nobody remembers that,” responds Ryan, shrugging off the reference.
Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal star side-by-side in a new Hellman’s mayonnaise commercial.
Hellmann’s
As Ryan and Crystal dig into their sandwiches, Ryan expresses displeasure but after she adds mayonnaise to her sandwich, she immediately begins to really enjoy the sandwich, channeling her famous excited reaction from the original film, 35 years later.
“Here we go,” responds Crystal in annoyance.
As Ryan continues, banging her hands on the table and rolling her head back, Crystal chimes in, “this one’s real.”
“Lunch and a show,” he says, addressing onlookers.
Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal star side-by-side in a new Hellman’s mayonnaise commercial.
Hellman’s
A surprise twist at the end reveals Sydney Sweeney sitting nearby who delivers the now-iconic punchline, “I’ll have what she’s having” — which was originally delivered by “When Harry Met Sally” director Rob Reiner’s mother Estelle Reiner.
The 30 second spot will air in the second quarter of the Super Bowl on Feb. 9, while a longer 60 second version will debut on social media.
“The opportunity to return to Katz’s Deli with Meg was a no brainer,” Crystal said in a statement introducing the advertisement.
“Thanks to Hellmann’s, who came up with the concept and wrote a really funny spot, we’re bringing some laughs and nostalgia and helping When Harry Met Sally celebrate its 35th Anniversary during the Big Game this year,” Crystal continued.
Ryan added in a statement, “Reuniting with Billy and stepping back into Sally’s shoes was a joy.”
Hellmann’s tapped renowned director Jake Szymanski, an alum of comedic powerhouses like “Saturday Night Live” and Funny or Die, to oversee the new spot.
In a preview event at Katz’s on Tuesday night, Szymanski said the brand “had all the right pieces in place” with Ryan, Crystal and Katz’s all signed on to create the commercial, revealing that this “was the first time either of them had been back at Katz’s since they shot the scene.”
“Obviously I’m a huge fan of the movie — the biggest thing for me when you have celebrities like this and doing something iconic, is you want to try to make something that feels like only they could have done it,” he said. “When you have good performers let them perform in a way that feels special — obviously you have to do it with Billy and Meg.”
Szymanski noted that “it’s also a commercial that I feel like integrated Hellmann’s really well, it’s not forcing itself somewhere it shouldn’t.”
A hot turkey sandwich with Hellmann’s mayo at Katz’s Deli in New York City for the brand’s new Super Bowl ad.
Hellmann’s
Hellmann’s and Katz’s also teamed up to create the “What She’s Having” Sandwich Package — a new bundle available online for nationwide delivery that includes all the ingredients and recipe to make Meg Ryan’s sandwich order, complete with Hellmann’s mayonnaise, plus Crystal’s pastrami sandwich. Each kit costs $120, with free shipping, and can feed four to six people. Limited quantities available.
Before the big game, check out a first look at Super Bowl ads featuring big stars here.
Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, the beloved stars of the classic romantic comedy “When Harry Met Sally,” reunited for a hilarious Super Bowl ad that paid homage to their iconic film.
In the ad, Crystal and Ryan recreated the famous scene from the movie where Sally fakes an orgasm in a deli, but with a twist. This time, they were in a crowded football stadium, and Crystal’s over-the-top performance had the entire crowd in stitches.
The ad cleverly incorporated references to the original film, with Crystal’s character even ordering a sandwich with the famous line, “I’ll have what she’s having.”
Fans of “When Harry Met Sally” were delighted to see the two stars back together on screen, bringing their signature chemistry and comedic timing to the big game. It was a fun and nostalgic moment that had viewers laughing and reminiscing about the beloved romantic comedy.
Overall, the Super Bowl ad starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan was a delightful throwback that brought joy to fans of the film and added some humor to the game day festivities.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA – NOVEMBER 6: Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates … [+] during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Paycom Center on November 6, 2023 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)
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As NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco approaches, participants in the various events are beginning to be announced. Most notably, the players who have earned the honor to play in the marquee event on Sunday night have now been officially unveiled.
The starters for the NBA All-Star Game were announced last week, as Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander earned a spot in that group of elite players. He is currently the favorite to win MVP later this year and was an easy choice. On Thursday, the reserves were announced and a second member of the Thunder made the cut.
In just his third season, Oklahoma City’s Jalen Williams officially earned the nod as an NBA All-Star, making him one of just 24 players in the league who can say that for the 2024-25 campaign. The Western Conference is loaded with talent, so this honor speaks volumes about his impact on the Thunder’s success this season and how he is viewed by coaches around the NBA, who voted on the reserves.
The progression Williams has made over the first three seasons of his career has been extremely impressive. A two-way talent, he’s emerged as a bonafide second star alongside Gilgeous-Alexander this season, which has been especially important with Chet Holmgren being sidelined for the majority of the season. As good as Gilgeous-Alexander is, he can’t do it alone. The Thunder has the second-best record in the NBA at 37-9 and is first in the Western Conference, which wouldn’t be possible without Williams’ continued development.
Through 45 games this season, Williams has produced 21.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists per contest. His shooting efficiency has fallen slightly this season, given the expanded role and additional attention from defenses, but that’s to be somewhat expected.
Not only is he a dynamic scorer, but Williams is also a phenomenal defender who can guard every single position. Whether it be a quick point guard like Kyrie Irving or one of the tallest players in the league like Victor Wembanyama, Williams has effectively defended up and down every lineup.
That versatility is felt on both ends of the floor. The first-time NBA All-Star can defend anyone, but he can’t also fill any spot on the offensive end. Williams was a college point guard and still has those skills, but he spent the majority of his time this season playing as a forward — and, at times, as a small ball center.
This is a well-deserved honor for Williams, who is clearly one of the brightest young players in the league. At 23 years old, he’s the second option on a championship contender that is on a 66-win pace.
Not only will Williams join Gilgeous-Alexander in San Francisco next month, but he will have a chance to also compete against another teammate as Cason Wallace is participating in the Rising Stars event, meaning he could be part of the NBA All-Star mini tournament under the new format.
This mini-tournament will feature four teams competing in a three-game bracket. The 24 All-Stars will be divided into teams of eight, with the fourth team being the aforementioned winner of the Rising Stars event.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have another All-Star in their midst, as Jalen Williams has been named to the 2025 NBA All-Star Game roster. Williams becomes the second player from the Thunder to earn this honor, joining teammate Isaiah Jones.
Williams, a rising star in the league, has been lighting up the scoreboard this season with his scoring prowess and dynamic playmaking abilities. The 6’6″ guard is averaging 25 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds per game, making him one of the most exciting players to watch in the league.
This All-Star nod is a testament to Williams’ hard work and dedication to his craft, as well as the Thunder’s commitment to developing young talent. With Williams and Jones representing the Thunder in the All-Star Game, the future looks bright for this up-and-coming team.
Congratulations to Jalen Williams on this well-deserved honor, and here’s to many more All-Star appearances in his bright future. Thunder fans, get ready to cheer on your All-Star duo as they take the court in the 2025 NBA All-Star Game! #ThunderUp #NBAAllStar2025
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Jalen Williams, Thunder, NBA All-Star, 2025, Oklahoma City Thunder, basketball, All-Star nod, NBA, Jalen Williams All-Star, NBA All-Star 2025, Thunder player
Charli xcx leads this year’s Brit awards with five nominations for her 2024-dominating record Brat – the Guardian’s album of last year. With four nominations apiece, Dua Lipa, the Last Dinner Party, Ezra Collective and Myles Smith are close on the pop star’s trail.
xcx is nominated for album, artist and song of the year – the latter for the remix of Guess featuring Billie Eilish – and in the dance and pop genre categories.
But despite xcx painting the British music industry’s annual party a violent shade of lime green, women remain underrepresented in this year’s nominations, accounting for 34.7% of the 98 slots. Male acts comprise more than half, at 53%, with mixed-gender acts and collaborations – including the Last Dinner Party – making up the remaining 12.3%.
It’s a noteworthy year for some vintage groups: the Beatles’ AI-abetted Now and Then is up for best song, the group’s first nomination since the very first Brit awards in 1977. (Prior to becoming an annual fixture in 1983, the first Brits marked Queen Elizabeth II’s silver jubilee and 100 years since the invention of the phonograph, and honoured the preceding 25 years in music, seeing the Beatles earn three nominations.) And with three nominations for Songs of a Lost World – their first album since 2008 – the Cure score their first Brit nominations in more than 30 years in the categories for album of the year, group of the year and alt/rock act.
At the newer end of the scale, Stargazing singer Smith is this year’s Rising Star winner, tipped by the industry for major success, and is also nominated for new artist, song and pop act.
Ezra Collective: God Gave Me Feet for Dancing – video
The genre categories are assembled by the Brits voting academy and then voted for by members of the public via WhatsApp. Predictably, the category for hip-hop/grime/rap act features just one woman, Little Simz, alongside Central Cee, Dave, Ghetts and Stormzy.
London jazz act Ezra Collective may also be set for a breakthrough year. The five-piece released their third album, Dance, No One’s Watching, in September, after winning the 2023 Mercury prize for their second album. “From a youth club to the Brit awards and beyond,” they said in a statement.
Some may raise eyebrows at a group active since 2016 being up for new artist – alongside last year’s Mercury winners English Teacher, the Last Dinner Party, Myles Smith and former Brit School student Rachel Chinouriri – but the category parameters stipulate that acts must have had one Top 40 album or single in the eligibility period, but can’t have had a Top 10 album or more than one Top 10 single, nor have had prior nominations for best artist, group or album.
Despite middling reviews for her third album Radical Optimism – which spent just 19 weeks in the UK Top 100, compared to 220 for her 2020 record Future Nostalgia – Lipa is nominated for album of the year, artist of the year, song of the year (for Training Season) and pop act.
Last year’s major winner, Raye – who took home six prizes in 2024 – is up for R&B act. “I’m still processing the ridiculousness that was last year!” she said in a statement. “I’m excited to watch Charli xcx clean up this year, she just deserves it so much.”
Some nascent comebacks also feature: Sam Fender is up for artist of the year and alt/rock act, despite only having released two singles from his forthcoming third album, People Watching, due in February; and Jade, of the on-hiatus band Little Mix, is up for song of the year (for Angel of My Dreams) and pop act.
In the international categories, Taylor Swift, Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter and Billie Eilish have two nods apiece; Eilish also clocks a third nomination alongside xcx in the song category.
“Thank you so much for the nominations and the recognition of my art,” Roan said in a statement. “The UK has always shown me so much love and championed me through these past few years. It was one of the first places that Good Luck, Babe! blew up in, so this feels extra special.”
The awards for producer and songwriter of the year will be announced prior to the ceremony, which takes place on 1 March at the O2 Arena in London. Returning for the first time since 2021, Jack Whitehall reclaims hosting duties. No performers have yet been announced for the night.
The nominations in full
Album of the year
Abigail Morris of the Last Dinner Party performing at Glastonbury in 2024. Photograph: Jonny Weeks/the Guardian
Artist of the year
Beabadoobee
Central Cee
Charli xcx
Dua Lipa
Fred Again
Jamie xx
Michael Kiwanuka
Nia Archives
Rachel Chinouriri
Sam Fender
Group of the year
Bring Me the Horizon
Coldplay
The Cure
Ezra Collective
The Last Dinner Party
Best new artist
English Teacher
Ezra Collective
The Last Dinner Party
Myles Smith
Rachel Chinouriri
Song of the year
Jordan Adetunji. Photograph: Shamaal
Artemas – I Like the Way You Kiss Me
The Beatles – Now and Then
Bl3ss – X Camrin Watsin (ft Bbyclose)
Central Cee – Band4Band (ft Lil Baby)
Charli xcx – Guess (ft Billie Eilish)
Chase and Status/Stormzy – Backbone
Coldplay – Feels Like I’m Falling in Love
Dua Lipa – Training Season
Ella Henderson – Alibi (ft Rudimental)
Jade – Angel of My Dreams
Jordan Adetunji – Kehlani
KSI – Thick of It (ft Trippie Redd)
Myles Smith – Stargazing
Sam Ryder – You’re Christmas to Me
Sonny Fodera/Jazzy/DOD – Somedays
Alt/rock act
Beabadoobee
The Cure
Ezra Collective
The Last Dinner Party
Sam Fender
Hip-hop/grime/rap act
Central Cee
Dave
Ghetts
Little Simz
Stormzy
Dance act
Becky Hill
Charli xcx
Chase and Status
Fred Again
Nia Archives
Pop act
Charli xcx
Dua Lipa
Jade
Lola Young
Myles Smith
R&B act
Cleo Sol
Flo
Jorja Smith
Michael Kiwanuka
Raye
Rising star
Myles Smith (winner)
Elmeine
Good Neighbours
International artist of the year
Adrianne Lenker
Asake
Benson Boone
Beyoncé
Billie Eilish
Chappell Roan
Kendrick Lamar
Sabrina Carpenter
Taylor Swift
Tyler, the Creator
International group of the year
Amy Taylor of Amyl and the Sniffers. Photograph: Antonio Olmos/the Observer
Amyl and the Sniffers
Confidence Man
Fontaines DC
Future and Metro Boomin
Linkin Park
International song of the year
Benson Boone – Beautiful Things
Beyoncé – Texas Hold ’Em
Billie Eilish – Birds of a Feather
Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe!
Djo – End of Beginning
Eminem – Houdini
Hozier – Too Sweet
Jack Harlow – Lovin’ on Me
Noah Kahan – Stick Season
Post Malone – I Had Some Help (ft Morgan Wallen)
Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso
Shaboozey – A Bar Song (Tipsy)
Taylor Swift – Fortnight (ft Post Malone)
Teddy Swims – Lose Control
Tommy Richman – Million Dollar Baby
The Brit Awards nominations have just been announced, and Charli XCX is leading the pack in a male-dominated field. This year marks the first time since 1977 that a female artist has received a Beatles nod, with Charli XCX being recognized for her groundbreaking work in the music industry.
The Brit Awards are one of the most prestigious music awards in the UK, and this year’s nominations are no exception. Charli XCX has been nominated in multiple categories, including Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Female Solo Artist.
It’s a significant moment for Charli XCX, who has been pushing boundaries and breaking down barriers in the music industry. Her innovative sound and fearless approach to her art have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
The Beatles nod is a historic moment for Charli XCX, as it marks the first time since 1977 that a female artist has been recognized in this category. It’s a testament to her talent and influence in the music world, and a sign that the industry is becoming more inclusive and diverse.
Congratulations to Charli XCX on her well-deserved nominations, and here’s to a successful night at the Brit Awards. Let’s celebrate the incredible music being made by artists like her and continue to support and uplift women in the industry.
The government of Albania has given preliminary approval to a plan proposed by Jared Kushner, Donald J. Trump’s son-in-law, to build a $1.4 billion luxury hotel complex on a small abandoned military base off the coast of Albania.
The project is one of several involving Mr. Trump and his extended family that directly involve foreign government entities that will be moving ahead even while Mr. Trump will be in charge of foreign policy related to these same nations.
The approval by Albania’s Strategic Investment Committee — which is led by Prime Minister Edi Rama — gives Mr. Kushner and his business partners the right to move ahead with accelerated negotiations to build the luxury resort on a 111-acre section of the 2.2-square-mile island of Sazan that will be connected by ferry to the mainland.
Mr. Kushner and the Albanian government did not respond Wednesday to requests for comment. But when previously asked about this project, both have said that the evaluation is not being influenced by Mr. Kushner’s ties to Mr. Trump or any effort to try to seek favors from the U.S. government.
“The fact that such a renowned American entrepreneur shows his interest on investing in Albania makes us very proud and happy,” a spokesman for Mr. Rama said last year in a statement to The New York Times when asked about the projects.
Mr. Kushner’s Affinity Partners, a private equity company backed with about $4.6 billion in money mostly from Saudi Arabia and other Middle East sovereign wealth funds, is pursuing the Albania project along with Asher Abehsera, a real-estate executive that Mr. Kushner has previously teamed up with to build projects in Brooklyn, N.Y.
The Albanian government, according to an official document recently posted online, will now work with their American partners to clear the proposed hotel site of any potential buried munitions and to examine any other environmental or legal concerns that need to be resolved before the project can move ahead.
The document, dated Dec. 30, notes that the government “has the right to revoke the decision,” depending on the final project negotiations.
Mr. Kushner’s firm has said the plan is to build a five-star “eco-resort community” on the island by turning a “former military base into a vibrant international destination for hospitality and wellness.”
Ivanka Trump, Mr. Trump’s daughter, has said she is helping with the project as well. “We will execute on it,” she said about the project, during a podcast last year.
This project is just one of two major real-estate deals that Mr. Kushner is pursuing along with Mr. Abehsera that involve foreign governments.
Separately, the partnership received preliminary approval last year to build a luxury hotel complex in Belgrade, Serbia, in the former ministry of defense building, which has sat empty for decades after it was bombed by NATO in 1999 during a war there.
Serbia and Albania have foreign policy matters pending with the United States, as both countries seek continued U.S. support for their long-stalled efforts to join the European Union, and officials in Washington are trying to convince Serbia to tighten ties with the United States, instead of Russia.
Virginia Canter, who served as White House ethics lawyer during the Obama and Clinton administrations and also an ethics adviser to the International Monetary Fund, said even if there was no attempt to gain influence with Mr. Trump, any government deal involving his family creates that impression.
“It all looks like favoritism, like they are providing access to Kushner because they want to be on the good side of Trump,” Ms. Canter said, now with State Democracy Defenders Fund, a group that tracks federal government corruption and ethics issues.
Albania Gives Jared Kushner Hotel Project a Nod as Trump Returns
In a surprising turn of events, Albania has approved Jared Kushner’s hotel project in the country as former President Donald Trump makes his return to the spotlight. The project, which has been in the works for several years, was given the green light by Albanian officials just days before Trump’s visit to the country.
The hotel, which is set to be a luxurious five-star property, is expected to bring in tourism and boost the local economy. Kushner, who is Trump’s son-in-law and former advisor, has been working on the project with a team of developers for quite some time.
With Trump’s return to the public eye, many are speculating that his influence played a role in securing the approval for the hotel project. However, both Kushner and Albanian officials have denied any political influence in the decision.
As construction on the hotel project begins, all eyes will be on Albania to see how this development unfolds amidst the backdrop of Trump’s resurgence in the political arena. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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Albania, Jared Kushner, hotel project, Trump, approval, investment, hospitality industry, development, international relations, news
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Credit: Starz
The seventh season of Outlander is winding down, but that doesn’t mean the time travel drama is running out of steam with Claire and Jamie facing the American Revolution with higher stakes than ever. The upcoming penultimate installment, which will be the show’s first in the 2025 TV schedule, has a big nod to Diana Gabaldon’s source material that’s clear even without seeing the episode yet. Interestingly, the nod also comes one week after an episode penned by Gabaldon debuted on Starz to end the 2024 TV schedule, and she had some interesting comments about the experience.
First things first! The penultimate episode of Season 7 is called “Written in My Own Heart’s Blood,” which fans of the books will recognize as the title of the eighth of Diana Gabaldon’s nine main Outlander novels so far. This isn’t an unprecedented move; the Starz series’ second season finale is called “Dragonfly in Amber” in a nod to Gabaldon’s second book, and the Season 5 premiere was called “The Fiery Cross” as a nod to Gabaldon’s fifth book.
So, the title of the next episode being taken from the eighth book doesn’t mean that readers should expect a story lifted straight from page to screen, but it does suggest that perhaps some of the biggest events of the novel could happen before the end of the season. Personally, I’m also interested to see if the last two episodes before the next Droughtlander begins will incorporate certain aspects of Book 9, Go Tell the Bees that I Am Gone. With Outlander ending after Season 8, the show had limited time to finish telling Gabaldon’s story.
Speaking with Parade about writing the episode that aired on December 17, the author explained that even her script went through changes for the TV show. According to Gabaldon, “They did change quite a bit from the first draft” of her episode to cut some time from William and Jane, devote more time to Hal and Lord John, and cut down the story between Brianna and Rob Cameron. She went on to name another example of a change from book to screen in Season 7:
Some lines were changed—when Claire (book) sees Jamie in his new uniform and he asks whether he looks decent to inspect troops, she replies, ‘You look like bloody Mars, god of war. You’re likely to frighten your men.’ To which he replies, ‘I want them frightened of me. It’s my best chance of getting them out of this alive.’ That was (I believe) changed to JAMIE: ‘Do ye like it? CLAIRE: ‘I’d be lying if I said I didn’t.’ OK, there’s nothing wrong with either version, but it does alter the focus.
The author clarified that she sees “nothing wrong with either version,” but the change “does alter the focus” from Jamie’s worries about leading hundreds of troops he doesn’t know personal to putting the “emphasis is on the relationship between Jamie and Claire.” Gabaldon elaborated on why what works for her on the page simply can’t always work on screen:
There’s nothing ‘wrong’ with either one; it’s just where you want to place the focus of a scene or story, and in some contexts, one version might be better for the other medium. (i.e., I have all the room I need to do just about anything I want; I can take the time to show Jamie’s uncertainty about leading a much bigger group of men than he ever has, under urgent conditions. The show can’t, because they don’t have room. If they have to pick and choose between the elements of a book-scene (and they do), they’ll usually go for the briefest/most condensed version.
Gabaldon certainly does have more room to flesh out characters and stories in her books than Outlander does with one hour-long episode per week during a season. In total, Season 7 will amount to about 16 hours of television; the hardcover copy of Written in My Own Hearts Blood has 825 pages, and the audiobook is listed on Audible as running for 45 hours. Is it any wonder that the TV show has to pick, choose, and condense to adapt the saga to the small screen?
Of course, not all fans of the show have read the books, so the differences between the two mediums aren’t going to be apparent to everybody. Still, whether you are or aren’t a reader of Diana Gabaldon’s source material, you can look forward to the remaining episodes of Outlander Season 7, airing on Fridays at 9 p.m. ET on Starz.
Outlander fans, get ready for some exciting news! The hit show is gearing up for a big nod to Diana Gabaldon’s source material in an upcoming episode. The author herself recently addressed some changes that will be made in Season 7 from the books to the screen.
In a recent interview, Gabaldon revealed that there will be a significant moment in the show that pays homage to the original book series. While she didn’t give away any specific details, she hinted that fans of the books will definitely recognize the scene when it airs.
As for the changes in Season 7, Gabaldon assured fans that while there may be some deviations from the books, the overall story and characters will remain true to her vision. She explained that adaptations are necessary in order to bring the story to life on screen, but she is confident that the show’s creators will stay faithful to the heart of the series.
So, Outlander fans, get ready for an exciting season ahead with nods to the source material and some new twists and turns along the way. Stay tuned for more updates as the show continues to captivate audiences around the world.
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With the 2024 NFL season quickly approaching its end, the focus turns to the postseason and regular-season awards. The Buffalo Bills have won another divisional title (the fifth in a row), are close to clinching the AFC two seed, and have Josh Allen as the front-runner for the Associated Press NFL MVP award.
Yes, it’s true that I don’t want to see any Bills attending it, and hope they’re far too busy preparing to play in the Super Bowl. Also, I’m aware being selected as a Pro Bowler isn’t as prestigious an honor it used to be. Unfortunately, the selection has become mostly a popularity contest instead of an honor given to the best players in each conference.
With that said, we know players still get bonuses on being selected as a Pro Bowler, which shows it’s still a parameter (even if a poor one) to evaluate players’ performances in a single season.
Well, even if it’s not what it used to be, or what it is supposed to be, season awards, All-Pro, and Pro Bowl selections will always be a part of players’ resumés and something that will be used when evaluating legacies. With that in mind, I’ll make the selections based on what this honor was supposed to be. Here are my 2025 Bills Pro Bowlers…
QB Josh Allen
Josh Allen has put together another MVP-worthy season, leading the league in total QBR (79.5), WAR generated (2.30), and EPA (193). He’s broken several NFL records this year, such as the most wins in a quarterback’s first seven seasons, having six touchdowns in a game, having the most games with two passing touchdowns and and one rushing touchdown, and he’s also on his way to amassing five consecutive seasons of 40-plus touchdowns and over 4,500 passing yards.
I’m of the opinion that wins aren’t a QB stat, but we know it’s something voters use to evaluate QBs all the time. The Bills have 12 wins and only Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs have more in 2024, solidifying Allen’s case this year.
The Bills have a solid group of up-and-coming players, who are eager to make a name for themselves. But everybody knows this team goes as far as Josh Allen takes them. Remove him from the equation and that’s a hard-working team that would put up a solid the effort but wouldn’t be able to win many games. Allen is, unquestionably, one of the three best quarterbacks in the AFC in 2024 and it would be (just) his third Pro Bowl selection.
RB James Cook
James Cook is on his way to earning a second consecutive Pro Bowl selection. The third-year pro is establishing himself as one of the best young running backs in the NFL, putting up 928 yards and 14 TDs on the ground, plus 258 yards and two scores as a receiver.
Cook has shown improvement in his running style, waiting patiently for blockers to pave the way and also improving his strength when running between the tackles or finishing runs.
Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images
I believe the former Georgia Bulldog deserves the selection behind Ravens’ running back Derrick Henry (an MVP/Offensive Player of the Year-worthy candidate), and right there with Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor, who has more yards and fewer touchdowns, but is more valuable for his team, in my opinion. Despite Cook’s improvement, he still hasn’t become as reliable as the Bills need him to be in the passing game, catching passes and protecting Allen, which takes him off the field more often than ideal. Also, when Buffalo had to play without Cook, rookie Ray Davis and veteran Ty Johnson haven’t had any trouble replacing his production.
At the end of the day, Cook is a talented young back who deserves recognition, but still isn’t a difference-maker on his own and has room for improvement in some important areas of his game. He’s fighting Texans’ Joe Mixon, Titans’ Tony Pollard, and Steelers’ Najee Harris for this last spot and I’d give it to him right now for his TD production and for being on the winningiest team.
LT Dion Dawkins
The “Shnowman” has become a household name among AFC offensive linemen, and rightfully so. Dawkins has had another strong season protecting Josh Allen’s blindside and he’s ye again proven to be a dominant blocker in the run game — especially when paving the way on those tackle pull runs and opening the gap Josh Allen usually dives through on QB sneak plays.
Photo by Bryan Bennett/Getty Images
With the Bills winning so many games and the team’s offensive line getting some deserved recognition, I believe it’s a lock for Dawkins to earn his fourth Pro Bowl selection.
CB Christian Benford
What a season by the former sixth-round pick from Villanova. Christian Benford has established himself not only as the Bills’ CB1 but also as one of the best up-and-coming talents at the position in the entire NFL. Teams have avoided throwing the ball his way and when they do, Benford has shown elite coverage abilities. He’s patient, physical, and knows the right time to track the ball and make a play on it. Add his size and tackling ability against the run game, and Buffalo has a true defensive pillar in Benford.
With 48 tackles, one sack, two forced fumbles and one recovered, one interception, and nine passes defended, plus appearing in the top five in several advanced metrics evaluating defensive backs, the only way Benford isn’t selected is if voters overlook him in favor of bigger names.
I said before the season started that it was time for Buffalo to move on from former Pro Bowlers in the defensive backfield and find the new Poyers, Hydes, and Tre’ Whites of the world. With the season quickly approaching its end, I feel confident when I say the Bills did so with Benford.
Quick Thoughts
Nickel cornerback Taron Johnson might make it. He’s an All-Pro from a year ago and the only remaining piece from the former Pro Bowl defensive backfield of past Bills teams. Alongside his good production when on the field, and Buffalo’s great record, it might be enough to have him in. With the time he’s missed injured, other nickel cornerbacks have better numbers and might be worth the nod over him, but it wouldn’t be unfair if Taron is selected — far from it.
Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images
MIKE linebacker Terrel Bernard is another player who has been playing at an All-Pro level since last season. He deserves the nod, in my opinion. However, losing time to injury has hurt his numbers, and he still doesn’t get the respect league-wide he deserves. Other big-name linebackers should make it over him.
Edge rusher Greg Rousseau is another talented player who definitely has the chance to be selected most seasons. He’s played well this year, even though a little more consistency rushing the passer would be welcome. There are just too many recognizable names with more sacks, which should make the difference in their favor.
Safety Taylor Rapp has been synonymous with reliability for the Bills’ last line of defense. I recall at least four touchdown-saving tackles Rapp made this season. He isn’t a big name, and Rapp’s play isn’t flashy, without the turnovers needed to elevate him to Pro Bowl level, in my opinion. I’d like to see him receive the recognition, though.
Wide receiver Khalil Shakir might have a shot as one of the last receivers selected in the AFC. He’s been Josh Allen’s unquestioned favorite target and, with Allen and team’s success, voters might feel inclined to give him the recognition as one of the top pass catchers in the conference. However, there are a lot of well-established names with the numbers to make it over him, so it’s a wait-and-see situation.
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images
Right tackle Spencer Brown has emerged as one of the top right tackles in the league this season — a huge turnaround from previous seasons where he struggled often. Brown’s another player who might get some recognition this year. But I believe he’s one more good season away from drawing this level of attention.
Center Connor McGovern is probably in the same situation as Brown. It’s his first season at center, so he might not have done it long enough to draw the attention his way. However, unlike Brown, he was already impressive at left guard last season so, maybe he can be selected as one of the top centers in the conference this year already.
At the end of the day, this Bills don’t boast a star-studded roster. They have young players with potential to get there, veterans who when playing within the schemes maximize their production, and a superstar quarterback who elevates everybody around him.
Finishing the season with 13 or 14 wins will put pressure on voters to recognize some names on a relatively unknown roster, which would help to elevate some players into new territory. But I have those four players above as the ones who should make it, with probably one more coming from the group I talked about but didn’t select — or even one of this group replacing one of the top guys being snubbed.
Catch up with all this and more during my latest edition ofLeading the Charge!
The 2025 NFL Pro Bowl is just around the corner, and fans of the Buffalo Bills are eagerly anticipating which players from their beloved team will earn a spot on the roster. With a talented roster and strong performances throughout the season, there are several players who are deserving of a Pro Bowl nod.
One player who is a sure bet for the Pro Bowl is quarterback Josh Allen. Allen has been a standout player for the Bills, showcasing his strong arm and ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground. With impressive stats and leadership on the field, Allen is a top contender for the Pro Bowl.
Another player who has been turning heads this season is wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Diggs has been a key playmaker for the Bills, consistently making big plays and racking up impressive receiving yards. His speed, route running, and hands make him a top candidate for a Pro Bowl selection.
On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds has been a force to be reckoned with. Edmunds has been a tackling machine for the Bills, consistently making plays and disrupting opposing offenses. His speed and instincts make him a standout player and a strong contender for a Pro Bowl nod.
With a talented roster and strong performances throughout the season, the Buffalo Bills have several players who are deserving of a Pro Bowl selection. As the 2025 Pro Bowl approaches, Bills fans will be eagerly watching to see which players will earn a spot on the roster. Who do you think deserves the nod for the 2025 NFL Pro Bowl? Let us know in the comments below!
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Buffalo Bills stars in the running for Pro Bowl selection
Top Buffalo Bills players deserving of Pro Bowl spot in 2025
Buffalo Bills standouts vying for Pro Bowl recognition
Which Buffalo Bills players should make the 2025 Pro Bowl roster?
What If…? season 3’s penultimate episode opens by revisiting the reality inhabited by the Nebula from season 2 (who is now Xandar’s “Nova Prime”). The interdimensional tentacle monster from previous seasons is attacking the planet but Captain Carter, Kahhori, Byrdie – the daughter of Howard the Duck and Darcy – and a Mjolnir-wielding Storm intervene.
Peggy kills the monster we first saw her face in season 1 and, moments later, the shards from the Observational Plane, shattered when the Eminence captured The Watcher, land nearby.
New opening credits reveal that the Eminence, Incarnate, and Executioner watch the Watchers and, with The Watcher captured, it’s made clear that they now have no other choice but to intervene and undo his past actions (starting with Captain Carter and her team, a group referred to here as the “Exiles”).
Aboard Byrdie’s ship, a foosball table features players with the likeness of characters such as Wolverine, Galactus, Rogue, Kang, and Beta Ray Bill.
Also of note is the fact Peggy has been traversing the Multiverse with the use of a Time Chair strongly resembling the one used by Kang in Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania. We never learn how she got it but wonder if that changed after Jonathan Majors’ villain was ousted from the Multiverse Saga. Regardless, our heroes attempt to modify it so they can travel to the Fifth Dimension and help The Watcher.
Neither that nor Storm’s attempt to break the boundary between realities works and, with one shard left, they hatch a plan. Kahhori suggests they find an Infinity Ultron Variant and use him to reach their friend. If the plan fails, they can use reset charges stolen from the TVA to wipe out his timeline.
Captain Carter and Storm have a heart-to-heart before the former tracks an Ultron down on her own (in his reality, all life was wiped out following an epic battle with Captain Marvel). Eons have passed since then and Peggy pleads with him to help.
Kahhori, Storm, and Byrdie arrive to find Captain Carter’s broken shield and assume Ultron is responsible. Instead, he’s realised there is no peace without life and concludes that he made a mistake. While it’s too late for redemption, he’s willing to atone for his actions and absorbs the shard before agreeing to take them to Peggy – who was kidnapped by the Eminence – and The Watcher.
The Watcher must stand trial for his many interventions.
The cast for episode 7 includes Jeffrey Wright, Hayley Atwell, Jason Isaacs, Devery Jacobs, Alison Sealy-Smith, and Natasha Lyonne. The episode is directed by Stephan Franck, with a story by Bryan Andrews, Matthew Chauncey, and Ryan Little, and a teleplay by Matthew Chauncey and Ryan Little.
In the world of superheroes, anything can happen. And this week, fans got a triple dose of excitement with a nod to a classic character, a surprise return, and a long-awaited debut.
First up, fans of the Avengers were thrilled to see a subtle nod to Kang the Conqueror in the latest episode of their favorite TV show. Kang, a time-traveling villain with a complex backstory, has long been a fan favorite in the Marvel universe. While his appearance was brief, it left fans buzzing with speculation about what could be in store for the character in future episodes.
Next, fans of a certain web-slinging hero got a pleasant surprise when a beloved character made a return after being absent for several years. The character’s unexpected appearance had fans cheering and speculating about what role they might play in the hero’s future adventures.
And finally, fans of the X-Men were overjoyed to see one of their favorite mutants make their long-awaited debut in the latest issue of their favorite comic book series. Storm, with her weather-controlling powers and regal demeanor, has long been a fan favorite in the X-Men universe. Her debut was met with excitement and anticipation for what she will bring to the team in the coming issues.
With so much excitement and anticipation building in the world of superheroes, fans can’t wait to see what twists and turns lie ahead for their favorite characters. Stay tuned for more thrilling developments as these heroes continue their epic adventures.
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