The Recording Academy next weekend will salute this season’s standout music at the 68th Grammy Awards. Last year’s hybrid awards show-fundraiser had its rocky moments but nonetheless raised $9 million for L.A. wildfire relief efforts.
Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s ceremony, from how to watch to which artists to keep tabs on.
How can I watch?
The Grammys return to downtown L.A.’s Crypto.com Arena on Feb. 1. The awards show begins at 5 p.m., broadcasting live on CBS and streaming live (premium subscribers only) and available on demand on Paramount+. The premiere ceremony, which isn’t televised, begins at 12:30 p.m.
Who is performing?
The Recording Academy on Tuesday announced that two-time Grammy winner Sabrina Carpenter will perform on awards night. This year, Carpenter is nominated for six Grammy Awards, including album (“Man’s Best Friend”), and record and song (“Manchild”) of the year.
The ceremony for the second consecutive year has also invited all eight best new artist nominees to take the Grammys stage. This year’s contenders are Leon Thomas, Olivia Dean, Katseye, the Marías, Addison Rae, Sombr, Alex Warren and Lola Young.
The best new artist race is among the 2026 Grammys’ tightest, but Dean’s prospects are rosier after her breakout song “Man I Need” topped Billboard’s Pop Airplay chart in December. If the British artist — or her competitors Rae or Young — takes home gold, it will mark the ninth time in a row that the honor has gone to a solo female artist.
Who is hosting?
Comedian Trevor Noah will host the ceremony for the sixth and final time, capping off a “generational run” with the Grammys.
“I am beyond thrilled to welcome Trevor Noah back to host the Grammys for his sixth, and sadly, final time,” the show’s executive producer Ben Winston said in a statement earlier this month.
Winston called Noah “the most phenomenal host”: “smart, so funny, and such a true fan of the artists and music.”
Noah is up for a Grammy Award this year for his audio narration of his children’s book “Into the Uncut Grass.”
Who are the main contenders?
L.A.’s own Kendrick Lamar led this year’s nominations with nine, including album (“GNX”) and record (“Luther”) of the year. Trailing just behind were Lady Gaga and producers Cirkut and Jack Antonoff, with seven nominations each.
What’s new this year?
While not technically new, the Grammy for album cover will be presented this year for the first time since 1973.
“In today’s digital world, album covers are arguably more impactful than ever,” Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. told Grammy.com in June. “Chances are, there’s an iconic cover that’s instantly recognizable to you, even if you never owned the physical album. Their cultural significance is undeniable.”
Nominees in the resurrected category are Tyler, the Creator’s “Chromakopia,” Djo’s “The Crux,” Bad Bunny’s “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” Perfume Genius’ “Glory” and Wet Leg’s “Moisturizer.”
The country album category has also been split into two groups this year: traditional country and contemporary country.
Additionally, Latin Grammy voting members were invited for the first time to join the Recording Academy as part of its 2025 class.
Times staff writer Cerys Davies contributed to this report.
Nominations for the 98th Academy Awards will be revealed Thursday in a livestream that’s sure to spur some chatter. While critics seem to agree on a few locks, as this month’s Golden Globes — and last year’s Oscars, for that matter — proved, there’s always room for surprise.
Here’s everything you need to know about the announcement.
How can I watch?
Actors Danielle Brooks and Lewis Pullman will announce the nominees in all 24 categories, including the new casting award, in a livestream from the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater. The presentation will kick off at 5:30 a.m. Pacific, and viewers can tune in live to the Academy’s website and social media platforms or to ABC’s “Good Morning America.” It will also stream on “ABC News Live,” Disney+ and Hulu. American Sign Language services will be available on YouTube. Nine of the categories will be revealed at 5:30 a.m., and the 15 remaining ones will be announced at 5:41 a.m. after a short break.
Brooks received an Oscar nomination for her role in “The Color Purple” (2024), and Pullman starred in “Top Gun: Maverick,” which won the Oscar for sound in 2023. He also co-starred alongside Amanda Seyfried in “The Testament of Ann Lee,” another awards contender this season.
When are the Oscars?
The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC, with streaming available on Hulu. The show starts at 4 p.m. Pacific.
Who’s hosting the awards show?
Conan O’Brien will return as host after his knockout performance in 2025, which helped the show draw its biggest audience in five years.
As Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Chief Executive Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang said in a notably early announcement of O’Brien’s encore, “Conan was the perfect host — skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth and reverence.”
The seasoned comic this past year made an appearance in Mary Bronstein’s “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” whose star Rose Byrne is likely to receive a nod in the actress category.
Who are the projected front-runners?
Ryan Coogler’s horror standout “Sinners” is projected to lead nominations with as many as 15. Along with Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another,” the film may tie or even break the record for most Oscar nominations (14), which was first set by “All About Eve” (1951) and later matched by “Titanic” (1998) and “La La Land” (2017).
Other top contenders include Chloé Zhao’s “Hamnet,” which took the best drama Golden Globe, Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value” and Josh Safdie’s “Marty Supreme.” Plus, after “The Secret Agent” notched a couple Globes wins, the Brazilian political thriller has its sights set on an Oscar next.
As for the individual categories, “Hamnet’s” Jessie Buckley is a sure bet for actress, and Timothée Chalamet and Leonardo DiCaprio are shoo-ins for their roles in “Marty Supreme” and “One Battle,” respectively. Chalamet beat DiCaprio for the Golden Globe Award on Sunday.
Tabby Refael’s messages to Iran are going unanswered.
For weeks, she has called, texted and sent voice memos to loved ones in Tehran, where massive crowds have demanded the overthrow of the country’s authoritarian government.
Are you OK? Refael — a West Los Angeles-based writer and Iranian refugee — has texted, over and over. Do you have enough food? Do you have enough water? Are you safe?
No response.
When the protests, initially spurred by economic woes, began in late December, Refael consistently got answers. But those stopped last week, when Iranian authorities imposed a near-total internet blackout, at the same time that calls to telephone landlines were also failing to connect. Videos circulating online show rows and rows of body bags. And human rights groups say the government is waging a deadly crackdown on protesters in Tehran and other cities, with more than 2,000 killed.
A woman shops at Shater Abbass Bakery and Market in Westwood in June 2025 after U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
(Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times)
Like many in Southern California’s large Iranian diaspora, Refael, 43, has been glued to her phone, constantly refreshing the news trickling out from Iran, where, she fears, there is “a wholesale massacre occurring in the literal dark.”
“Before the regime completely blacked out the internet, and in many places, electricity, there was an electrifying sense of hope,” said Refael, a prominent voice in Los Angeles’ Persian Jewish community. But now, as the death toll rises, “that hope has been devastatingly tempered with a sense of visceral dread.”
Refael’s family fled Iran when she was 7 because of religious persecution. Born a few years after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, she was raised in an era when hijabs were mandatory and people had to adhere, she said, to the “anti-American and antisemitic policies of the state.”
Refael has never been able to return. Like other Iranian Americans, she said she feels “a sense of guilt” being physically far from the crisis in her homeland — watching with bountiful internet and electricity, living among Americans who pay little attention to what is happening on the streets of Iran.
The demonstrations, which began Dec. 28, were sparked by a catastrophic crash of Iran’s currency, the rial. They have since spread to all of the country’s 31 provinces, with protesters challenging the rule of 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
People pass by the damaged Tax Affairs building on Jan. 10, 2026, in Tehran. Some parts of the capital have sustained heavy damage during ongoing protests.
“Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!!” he wrote. “Save the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a big price. I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian Officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOPS. HELP IS ON ITS WAY.”
Trump has repeatedly vowed to strike Iran’s leadership if it kills demonstrators. On Monday, he announced that countries doing business with Iran will face 25% tariffs from the U.S., “effective immediately.”
This frame grab from video taken between Jan. 9 and Jan. 11, 2026, and circulating on social media purportedly shows images from a morgue with dozens of bodies and mourners on the outskirts of Iran’s capital, in Kahrizak.
(Associated Press)
In the U.S., few, if any, places have been following the crisis as closely as Southern California, home to the largest population of Iranians outside Iran. An estimated 141,000 Iranian Americans live in L.A. County, according to the Iranian Diaspora Dashboard, which is hosted by the UCLA Center for Near Eastern Studies.
In Westwood — the epicenter of the community, where the eponymous boulevard is lined by storefronts covered in Persian script — the widespread opposition to Iran’s hard-line theocracy is hard to miss.
This week, the window display of one clothing store featured ballcaps that read, “MIGA / Make Iran Great Again” alongside a lion and sun, emblems of the country’s flag before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. At a nearby ice cream shop, a hand-painted sign behind the cash register read: “Stop oppressing our people in the name of Islam.” In the window of a bookstore across the street, a sign demanded “Regime change in Iran.”
On Sunday, thousands of people were marching through Westwood in solidarity with the anti-government protesters in Iran when, to their horror, a man plowed into the crowd in a U-Haul truck bearing a sign that read: “No Shah. No Regime. USA: Don’t Repeat 1953. No Mullah.” The signage appeared to be in reference to a U.S.-backed 1953 coup that toppled Iran’s prime minister, cemented the power of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and lighted the fuse for the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
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Police on Monday announced that the driver, Calor Madanescht, 48, was arrested on suspicion of reckless driving. He was released Monday afternoon, according to L.A. County sheriff’s inmate records.
Video shared with The Times by attendees showed protesters trying to pull him from the vehicle and continuing to punch and lash out at him as police took him into custody.
In a statement posted to X on Sunday, First Assistant U.S. Atty. Bill Essayli said the FBI was “working with LAPD to determine the motive of the driver” and that “this is an active investigation.”
During a Los Angeles Police Commission meeting Tuesday, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said he does not expect federal charges and that there is no apparent “nexus to terrorism.”
In Westwood this week, the mood was tense after the U-Haul incident, which, police said, caused no serious injuries. Few store owners wanted to talk as journalists went from shop to shop. Although many Iranian immigrants hope the theocratic regime in Iran will be toppled, they fear for loved ones left behind, and said they preferred to not be in the public eye.
Among those willing to speak was Roozbeh Farahanipour, chief executive of the West L.A. Chamber of Commerce and owner of three Westwood Boulevard eateries.
Roozbeh Farahanipour and his young son wave the pre-1979 Islamic Revolution flag of Iran outside his restaurant Delphi Greek in Westwood, in this June 2025 image.
(Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times)
At his Mary & Robb’s Westwood Cafe — where the walls are adorned with decorative plates featuring American movie icons such as John Wayne and Marilyn Monroe — he conducted interviews all morning about the Sunday protest in Westwood, where he was in the crowd, just feet from the path of the U-Haul.
Farahanipour said Iranian Americans have mixed opinions about what should come next in Iran — including whether Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince and son of the late shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, should have a leading role.
“At the moment, I believe everybody needs to focus on overthrowing this regime. That’s why I participated. Many other people with different backgrounds participated,” he said, adding that he is “not a monarchist” but that “the opposition is unified against the regime.”
Farahanipour was 7 when the Islamic Revolution took place. He remembers riding with his mom to school, listening to a radio reading of “people who were executed by the regime.” One day, his mom’s cousin’s name was read over the airwaves.
Although his family was not Catholic, Farahanipour, 54, attended a Catholic school. He has fond memories of soccer games between the children and priests, who played in their long religious garments. After the revolution, he said, the government attacked the school and executed the principal.
Before seeking asylum in the U.S., Farahanipour was jailed and beaten in Iran for his role as a leader of the 1999 student protests against the government. He has been repeatedly threatened, including with death, by the government over the years, he said.
In 2022, his Persian Gulf Cafe in Westwood was vandalized, its glass front door shattered, after he shared images on Instagram of a memorial at the cafe honoring Iranian women in anti-government protests that year. He said he was unfazed.
Now a U.S. citizen, “officially retired from my role as Iranian opposition,” he said he dreams of returning to Iran for a trial against Khamenei and helping to “ask for the maximum sentence for him.”
Sam Yebri — a 44-year-old Iranian Jewish refugee whose family fled the country when he was 1 — said he has spent the last two weeks constantly getting social media updates about what’s happening in Iran and reaching out to elected officials, pleading with them to speak up for protesters.
Yebri, an attorney and former L.A. City Council candidate, grew up in Westwood. He is a longtime Democrat and said it has been “so maddening to see so many friends and activists who don’t shy away from discussing other issues just absolutely silent and absent in this fight.” He said he views it as “the biggest moment in world history since the fall of the Berlin Wall.”
“The regime must go,” he said, adding that he hopes Trump will “do whatever is prudent to enable the Iranian people to overthrow the brutal mullahs who have their boots on their throats.”
Yebri said he has not returned to Iran since his family fled while he was an infant. He hopes to do so someday, to visit the beautiful places his parents describe — where they honeymooned on the beaches of southern Iran and skied on its snowy mountains.
Alex Mohajer, the 40-year-old vice president of the Iranian American Democrats of California, was born in Orange County, where he was raised by a single mom who emigrated from Iran. He visited family there when he was 14 and “felt a great deal of pride” in seeing that “Western depictions of the country are far afield from reality, that it’s a very warm and loving country where the people are very hospitable and it’s very clear that they’ve lived under oppressive rule.”
Mohajer, who was unsuccessful in a 2024 bid for the California State Senate, wants a future in which he can travel back and forth freely to visit loved ones in Iran. But more immediately, he just wants to know they’re OK. His text messages are also going unanswered.
Times staff writer Libor Jany contributed to this report.
OLIVIA Attwood has revealed how her husband Bradley Dack reacts to the very saucy footage in her ITV series Getting Filthy Rich.
The programme, which is now in its fourth series, sees Liv delve into the world of kink and how creators monetise fetishes to make, in some cases, megabucks.
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Olivia Attwood has revealed how husband Bradley reacts to her daring ITV docuseriesCredit: GettyOlivia is still left gobsmacked filming Getting Filthy Rich after four seriesCredit: ITV
Her latest series begins next Monday with an episode on celebrity OnlyFans creators and goes on to more extreme material including an ex-military veteran who sells his stinky socks and men who like having their privates kicked.
Nothing is off the table, though the editors earn their money by artfully hiding the most X-rated material from view.
She says: “When I come home or I text him, and he’s like, ‘what are you up to?’ And I’m like, ‘just literally watching this guy get kicked in the balls’. He still to this day will be like, ‘oh Liv, whatever’.
“And I’m like, ‘why would I lie? You’ve seen the series. Like, I’m not lying’. Like he always thinks I’m exaggerating.
“And then when I start getting rough cuts of the show and I’m like, ‘come here, look at this’. And I’ll be like, ‘I remember that day you told me that I was just pulling your leg or exaggerating’. So it’s like, he still doesn’t fully believe me until he actually sees it.”
Liv really is in the thick of it, with little separation between her and the performers.
“I’m literally watching that like two metres away,” she says.
“I thought I couldn’t be shocked anymore, because I think I’ve seen so much,” she continues.
“But yeah, I’m speechless so many times this series, and I’m enlightened, and I’m shocked, and I’m learning things.
“I have to say, I think this is probably the most shocking series to date, if I’m honest. I think we cover some really unusual, quirky areas, and then we go kind of deeper into areas that we’ve actually already covered, but in a different way.”
Open-minded Liv parks her feelings to one side for the programme, determined to ensure the guest stars are portrayed in a neutral light, neither endorsing or criticising their lifestyle choices.
“I think the way people’s fetishes are, there’s no limits to what people are into,” she says. “And I think every time I think I’ve heard the thing that I think me personally, and I’m no judgment ever, then we find the story where I’m like, ‘okay, no, that, that is not the most unusual thing this is’.”
The one topic she was hesitant to explore was the world of foot fetishes, but she knew the demand was there and bit the bullet.
“We met with this guy who was kicked out of the army for creating OnlyFans content,” she says.
“And he’s selling his really dirty socks for crazy money. When he had the socks off his feet, the whole room stunk and someone would buy them for hundreds of pounds. Like it’s stuff that is really hard for us to get our head around, but people are into what they’re into.”
The Love Island star wanted to break new ground this series and flex her journalistic chops.
She did a deep dive into the Las Vegas sex industry, meeting strippers, escorts and performers, embracing Sin City’s seedier side.
What unfolded sounds reminiscent of the Hangover with Liv indulging in the wild night life and awkwardly standing shoulder to shoulder with her producer pals as porn stars did their thing right in front of them.
Explaining her attitude to the Stateside trip, she says: “You know what, I’m going to just really be an investigative journalist. I’m going to drink and I’m going to spend money.
“And they’re like, ‘you don’t have to do that’. I was like, ‘no, I want to, as a journalist, to get the full experience’. So there are lots of lols in that episode where I was like really trying to ingratiate myself in the Vegas culture.”
She finds herself up close and personal with performersCredit: ITVLiv previously explored the cam girl industryCredit: ITVShe says the new series is the most shocking to date
Both quarterbacks have had outstanding seasons and will meet on a huge stage Sunday night, each looking to pick up his first victory in the NFL playoffs.
Whereas Herbert is 0-2 in Chargers postseason games, Maye is making his first postseason appearance for the New England Patriots after assembling a most valuable player-caliber season.
Herbert hasn’t gotten as much MVP mention but has been elite, especially considering the state of his injury-riddled offensive line, which has a new configuration virtually every week.
Jim Harbaugh and the Patriots’ Mike Vrabel are two of the league’s most talented coaches too, and this figures to be a balanced matchup.
The Patriots won 14 games — a whopping 10 more than the year before — but didn’t play a lot of great quarterbacks, a middler’s row that included Cam Ward, Spencer Rattler, Dillon Gabriel and a 40-year-old Joe Flacco.
Twice the Chargers have lost playoff games at New England, falling short in the AFC championship game to end the 2007 season and a divisional game in 2018.
How the Chargers can win: The Chargers need to put the Patriots on their heels by slowing the running game, which has been New England’s key to winning lately, and force the pass. Maye’s receivers don’t have a lot of big-play potential. On defense the Patriots are solid but not overwhelming. The Chargers need to be effective on third down — need to stay in third-and-manageable — to keep drives alive and keep that Patriots defense on the field. Of course protecting Herbert is a priority and it’s a challenge with an offensive line that’s constantly being reshuffled. If the Chargers score early and often, they can take the crowd out of the game.
How the Patriots can win: New England has to stay out of obvious passing situations against an opportunistic Chargers defense. That means leaning on the running game, something the Patriots have done the last month. The Patriots need to shore up the defense against the run, although the Chargers don’t thrive on that with a banged-up Omarion Hampton and backups. If the Patriots can avoid the turnovers and establish a methodical tempo, they can inch away with field goals.
TODAY is Sunshine Saturday – traditionally the busiest day for Brits to book their 2026 holidays.
But where to go? Travel association Abta’s research shows nearly half of us want to visit a country we haven’t been to before.
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ABTA’s top 10 picks for 2026 aim to inspire Brits to try somewhere new this Sunshine SaturdayCredit: Getty Images
And today, with the help of their expert members, they’ve come up with a top 10 list of places to visit in 2026 .
Abta’s Graeme Buck says: “With a focus on countries or areas that may not immediately spring to mind, offering alternatives to more well-known destinations, there should be something for everyone.”
Lisa Minot looks at Abta’s lust list for 2026.
Head to the Danum Valley in Sabah to search for orangutans and clouded leopardsCredit: Getty
BORNEO: This island in South East Asia is home to unspoilt rainforests, enormous cave systems, imposing Mount Kinabalu and endless wild animal encounters.
Take a boat safari along the Kinabatangan River to spot crocodiles, proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants.
Head to the Danum Valley in Sabah to search for orangutans and clouded leopards.
Book with: Intrepid Travel, G Adventures and Travelbag.
Colombia’s mix of idyllic beaches, historic cities and rainforests is winning over travellers after its Race Across The World spotlightCredit: Getty
COLOMBIA: With the latest series of CelebrityRace Across The World culminating in Colombia’s Peninsula de la Guajira, we’ve all been entranced by the beauty of this South American gem.
With idyllic beaches, historic cities, rainforests and, of course, great coffee, a tour is a great way to get a snapshot of its highlights, from the colourful colonial city of Cartagena to the Caribbean beaches of Tayrona National Park.
Book with: Exodus, G Adventures and Intrepid Travel.
From ancient treasures to Red Sea resorts, Egypt is shaping up as a top pick for 2026Credit: Getty
EGYPT: The much-anticipated opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, on the outskirts of Cairo, makes Egypt a must-visit for 2026.
The museum houses more than 100,000 artefacts from Ancient Egypt, including the incredible treasures of Tutankhamun.
A river cruise along the Nile is a great way to take in all of the key sights, including the temples of Luxor and Aswan.
Sun-seekers will also appreciate the great value offered at Red Sea resorts, including Hurghada and Marsa Alam.
FRENCH POLYNESIA: With its palm-fringed beaches and dark blue lagoons, this vision of paradise is definitely worth travelling to the other side of the world for.
More than 100 islands make up this Pacific archipelago, so this is real bucket list territory.
Tick off as many sights as you can, from the busy markets of capital Papeete, on the island of Tahiti, to the honeymoon beaches of Bora Bora.
Book with: Scott Dunn, Kuoni and Trailfinders.
GERMANY’S BALTIC COAST: Miles of sandy beaches backed by chalk cliffs and beech forests make the German Riviera a favourite for locals – but few outsiders know it exists.
Easy to get to from Hambug or Berlin by train, head to Rugen, Germany’s largest island for fashionable Binz beach.
Hike or bike through the coastal countryside or discover Heiligendamm, known as the White Town by the Sea – the country’s oldest seaside resort with pretty neoclassical architecture and upmarket spas.
The area is also ideal for those looking for cooler summer temperatures.
Book with: Leger Travel, Riviera Travel.
GRENADA: A true taste of the Caribbean’s natural charms, Grenada is known as the Spice Island where its fertile soils produce nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, turmeric and vanilla as well as cacao for chocolate.
Summer is ‘Spicemas’ with parties and parades in the pretty capital, St George’s.
And get more nature in the Grand Etang National Park with its lake, lush vegetation and Mona monkeys.
From Capri’s celebrity buzz to Ischia’s peaceful trails and Procida’s pastel charm, the Gulf of Naples offers something for all travellersCredit: Getty
ISLANDS OF THE GULF OF NAPLES: Just a short ferry ride from Naples, Capri is known as a celebrity magnet and prices can be dizzying in the chic shops and fancy restaurants.
But the neighbouring island of Ischia offers a very different experience — a green, wooded mountainous island with great hiking options as well as the chance to relax on pretty beaches or soak away your worries in the Poseidon Gardens thermal pools.
And little Procida, with its pastel-coloured fishermen’s houses and laid-back vibe, has provided the perfect backdrop for films including The Talented Mr Ripley.
Book with: Citalia and TUI.
LA RIOJA: Look north to Spain’s La Rioja wine region for a different taste of our favourite holiday destination.
The Basque country has been proving popular for Brits and with Rioja sitting the other side of the River Ebro, there’s even more to explore from the capital Logrono, with some of the best tapas in Spain to one of the many wineries like the Marques de Riscal and the cosy bodegas in the town of Haro.
Expect spectacular scenery in the Sierra de Cebollera with its mountains, forests and wildlife including boar and birds of prey.
Book with: Brittany Ferries for self-drive breaks and Travelsphere for tours.
LUXEMBOURG: The delightful European duchy of Luxembourg packs a great deal within its compact borders: historic towns, fairytale castles and beautiful countryside.
Visits have increased six per cent year on year.
Start your trip in Luxembourg City, on the banks of a dramatic river gorge, then hop on the free public transport to visit the old town of Vianden with its castles.
Nature lovers will adore exploring the Mullerthal woods with its stunning beech groves, streams, canyons and cave systems.
Book with: Just Go! for coach holidays and First Choice for packages.
SERBIA: From its hip and buzzy capital Belgrade to its spectacular national parks, Serbia is ripe for discovery by those seeking a lesser-known European destination.
Get a taste for the capital’s ancient past at the Kalemegdan Fortress and sip cocktails in the hip Dorcol quarter.
Further afield, cycle along the inspiring Iron Gates gorge, carved out over millenia by the mighty River Danube or go deep into nature in the Tara National Park with dense forests, deep canyons and two lakes popular with water sports.
With receiver Davante Adams and safety Quentin Lake returning to the lineup, the Rams are near full-strength for their NFC wild-card game against the Carolina Panthers on Saturday at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C.
Adams, who leads the NFL with 14 touchdown catches, sat out three games because of a hamstring injury. He rejoins an offense that led the NFL in offense and scoring.
But Lake could be the main difference-maker for the Rams in a rematch of the Nov. 30 game between the teams.
Lake sustained an elbow injury during a Nov. 16 victory over the Seattle Seahawks and did not play in the Rams’ 31-28 defeat by the Panthers, a game in which Bryce Young passed for three touchdowns and the Rams gave up 164 yards rushing.
So coach Sean McVay is looking forward to having Lake back.
“It’s big because he’s so versatile and he’s so physical,” McVay said, adding, “He’s got this presence where you just feel better.”
In their loss to the Panthers, quarterback Matthew Stafford had two passes intercepted, one that was returned for a touchdown. He also lost a fumble.
Stafford of late has recaptured the form that has made him a favorite to win his first NFL most valuable player award. He has been named NFC offensive player of the month two months in a row.
So keeping the ball in Stafford’s hands and eliminating turnovers will be key for the Rams if they want to avenge their Week 13 loss to the Panthers.
LOVE Island star Paige Thorne was left with a bloodied nose after her boyfriend accidentally punched her in the face on a ski slope.
Paige, 28, and Josh Foreman filmed themselves having fun on the slopes of Avoriaz, France, as they sledded down a mountain on his snowboard.
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Love Island’s Paige Thorne was left bloodied in a ski slope accidentCredit: TikTokShe staggered to the bottom of the slope with blood oozing from her noseCredit: TikTok
After one failed attempt, they had another go and burst out laughing as they came to a stop in the powdery snow close to the bottom.
But as they lay giggling, the snowboard began to slide down the slope.
Josh reacted quickly and sprung up to chase it down, unwittingly bashing Paige’s face in the process.
She staggered down the remainder of the slope on foot filming herself on a selfie stick saying: “I’ve got a nose bleed.”
When she eventually caught up with Josh she said: “You punched me in the nose as you stood up.”
Shocked, he replied: “Shut up! Did you get it on camera?”
In the comments, one follower wrote: “Omg he didn’t even realise lol. Bet that hurt! What are you filming with just out of interest?”
Paige replied: “I know, he’s got such thick gloves he had no clue! Surprisingly it didn’t but I think because of the altitude and the cold it just made it real easy to bleed lol x.”
The paramedic found the mountains tough going overall, writing that the region wasn’t for “the faint-hearted”.
Paige recently faced backlash for saying she has “let herself go” after putting on 6lbs since she and Josh started dating.
She said on TikTok: “I honestly thought it was a myth – you get a boyfriend, you find the right one, you settle down and then do you know what happens?
“You stop caring about your appearance, you let yourself go, yada yada yada.
“I always thought no, that will never be me.”
However, Paige said that she’s been “smashing” three advent calendar chocolates a day, as well as skipping the gym – which has led to her skin breaking out and a gain of 6lbs.
The comments section of the TikTok was almost immediately filled with people responding to Paige’s weight admission, with many insisting she needs to be more responsible with her videos.
“This is a toxic message to girls,” one raged.
Paige and boyfriend Josh slid down the mountain on his snowboardCredit: TikTokThe smitten couple went pubic in the summerCredit: Instagram/@paigethornex
The new courtroom drama has been hailed as a ‘must watch’ for Netflix viewers.
The filmed is based on a true story(Image: Junglee Pictures)
A ‘brilliant’ new film has landed on Netflix, with viewers hailing it as “one of the most powerful and emotionally charged films of 2025”. The courtroom drama, based on a genuine landmark case that film enthusiasts are already dubbing essential viewing, has garnered rave reviews from both critics and audiences.
Helmed by director Suparn Varma, the film Haq boasts an impressive 83% critics’ score and a stellar 92% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
The cast features Yami Gautam portraying Shazia Bano, Emraan Hashmi as Abbas Khan, and Sheeba Chaddha in the role of Bela Jain.
Netflix’s official synopsis states: “After her husband abandons her, Shazia Bano takes him to court, fueling a national debate on women’s rights and justice. Inspired by a landmark judgment.”
The film draws inspiration from the actual case of Mohd Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum, involving a 62-year-old woman from Indore who sought maintenance under Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code following her divorce by her lawyer husband through Islamic law (triple talaq).
The couple had shared over four decades of marriage, and when she requested modest monthly support post-divorce, he refused, arguing his obligations extended only to roughly three months during the ‘iddat’ period according to Islamic law. The legal battle reached the Supreme Court, resulting in a landmark decision that forms the heart of the film’s narrative, reports the Express.
Cinema enthusiasts have already heaped praise on the ‘compelling’ drama, with one viewer declaring on Rotten Tomatoes: “Phenomenal film! ! ! A great movie, after a long time! ! ! Must watch! !”
Another echoed the sentiment: “Class. Amazing biopic. The challenge of religious law and civil law coexisting. Landmark case that ensured all women get protection and rights from a divorce. She almost loses everything but keeps her faith. Amazing acting. Yami steals the show and her final monologue is something else. Definitely watch.”
A third hailed the production as ‘beautiful’ and an ‘absolute must see’, whilst another praised: “Haq is a riveting courtroom drama that blends fearless storytelling with exceptional performances.”
One enthusiastic reviewer gushed: “10/10 A powerful and beautiful film highlighting women’s rights. Both Yami and Imran delivered outstanding performances, but Yami was exceptional… She absolutely owned the screen.”
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However, not all critics were equally impressed, with The Hollywood Reporter India describing it as “well-intentioned but reductive”. Despite this, the overwhelming response to the picture has been tremendously positive.
On IMDb, one viewer gushed: “Masterpiece of Truth, Courage, and Justice. Haq isn’t just a movie – it’s an experience, a statement, and a revolution in storytelling. Directed by Suparn Varma, this courtroom drama shines as one of the most powerful and emotionally charged films of 2025.”
Another agreed, stating: “Must Watch Movie. I really loved this movie…The story is strong and the film keeps you hooked from start to end. Yami Gautam is the highlight of the movie… Her acting is so powerful that she even overshadows Emraan Hashmi. Every dialogue she delivered gave me goosebumps. She truly deserves a National Award for this performance.”
Yet another person labelled the film as “superb”, penning: “Haq delivers a powerful cinematic experience with its gripping story and heartfelt performances.”
They further added: “What makes Haq special is its bold message about truth and integrity, leaving the audience inspired and thoughtful. It is one of the most compelling films of the year.”
Haq is available to stream now on Netflix.
**For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website**
When the Chargers lost to Houston, it foreclosed on some options for them. The division race and bid for the No. 1 seed were out the window. Now, this finale is about getting out of Denver healthy and prepared for the playoffs.
Still on the table, though, is a chance for an unblemished record in AFC West play. The Chargers swept Las Vegas and Kansas City, and posted a 23-20 victory over the Broncos in Week 3.
This is a more polished and confident Denver team than earlier in the season, however, and the Broncos since have won 13 of 14.
The AFC’s No. 1 seed is Denver’s to lose, so if they beat the Chargers, the road to the Super Bowl will go through the Mile High City.
How the Chargers can win: With Justin Herbert sitting out, the Chargers’ path to winning shifts dramatically. The emphasis will be on ball control, field position and avoiding mistakes. Trey Lance’s mobility becomes a weapon if the Chargers lean into it, using the run game, designed quarterback movement and play-action to keep Denver’s pass rush zeroing in. The Broncos are vulnerable to explosive plays when teams stay patient and force them out of their comfort zone. If the Chargers can establish even a modest run game, it opens opportunities downfield off misdirection and play-action. Defensively, Los Angeles must do what it’s done best under Jim Harbaugh: limit big plays, force long drives and make Denver settle for field goals. If the Chargers protect the ball and avoid penalties, they are capable of keeping the game close into the fourth quarter, and in a low-possession game, that’s all they need.
How the Broncos can win: Denver’s formula is simple and familiar: play clean, disciplined football and force the Chargers into a low-scoring game, which is much easier with a backup at quarterback. The Broncos have thrived in tight games by limiting mistakes, relying on their pass rush and letting their defense control tempo. They lead the league in sacks and consistently generate pressure without blitzing, which will be especially important against a Chargers offense starting Lance. If Denver can stop the run early, force Lance into obvious passing situations and avoid costly penalties, it can dictate the game. Bo Nix doesn’t have to be spectacular. He just needs to protect the ball and take advantage of short fields. The Broncos are comfortable winning games 20-17 or 23-20, and they will be happy to be in one of those with the Chargers.
Many people book a January holiday to feel refreshed and recharged, but it could be a mistake if you don’t do your research – here’s what to look for
(Image: Getty Images)
As the UK looks set to be covered in snow over the next few days, many Brits will be looking to book a holiday somewhere warmer.
January is the most popular month for British people to book holidays as the cold sets in, but if you’re one of them then it’s a wise idea to exercise caution, as travel experts warn that some hotels may subtly cut corners during the quieter winter months.
Experts warn that booking hotels in January can be fraught with risk if travellers aren’t aware of what to look out for as some hotels alter their operations once the festive season is over.
But the good news is it’s still possible to bag a bargain holiday and save money, as long as you know the red flags to look out for, according to Ski Vertigo.
1. Significant discounts with ambiguous descriptions.
While substantial price reductions can be enticing in January, experts caution that vague listings often indicate a change. This could encompass closed amenities, restricted services or rooms that aren’t typically available during peak periods.
2. Lack of winter facilities information.
Hotels which don’t explicitly outline their winter operations should raise eyebrows. Factors such as heating, transport accessibility and food options can all be impacted during the colder months. If a hotel fails to clarify this, travellers may find themselves faced with limited services upon arrival.
3. Negative or outdated reviews from winter stays.
Travel gurus suggest that holidaymakers often only consider reviews from summer holidays. Those planning a January getaway are advised to sift through recent winter stay reviews. Complaints about chilly rooms, poor food or closed facilities should raise red flags.
4. Reduced staff or services.
January is a period when many hotels cut back on their workforce. This can result in slower check-in times, limited housekeeping and fewer dining options. If a hotel fails to clearly outline what services are on offer, experts recommend erring on the side of caution.
5. Promising luxury at bargain prices.
Hotels offering spa access, gourmet dining and premium extras at surprisingly low prices in January may not live up to guests’ expectations. Amenities may operate on reduced hours or incur additional charges. ABTA’s industry guidance advises travellers to always verify what’s included in off-peak stays and to confirm facilities directly with accommodation providers prior to booking.
Travel pundits assert that January isn’t a poor time to travel, but it’s a month where meticulous planning is more crucial than ever. A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo highlights that travellers often presume all hotels operate the same way throughout the year, which is seldom the case once the peak season concludes.
Rather than hunting for bargains, specialists recommend prioritising clear communication, recent reviews, and accommodation tailored for winter travel.
Kicker Harrison Mevis aims to get back on track when the Rams play the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Mevis, signed by the Rams in November, made all eight of his field-goal attempts before missing from 48 yards late in the fourth quarter of the Rams’ 38-37 overtime defeat by the Seattle Seahawks on Dec. 18 in Seattle.
“Just continuing to keep firing away,” Mevis said. “I’m not going to be perfect in my career — nobody is. And it’s all about how you respond and bounce back and make the next kick.”
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Gary Klein breaks down everything you need to know heading into Monday night’s matchup between the Rams and the Atlanta Falcons.
Three of the Rams’ four losses have resulted from major kicking-game miscues, and Blackburn’s firing was just the latest change made to solve the issues.
When the Rams signed Mevis to replace Joshua Karty — who last week was signed by the Arizona Cardinals off the Rams practice squad — they also brought in veteran snapper Jake McQuaide to replace Alex Ward.
The game against the Falcons will serve as Ben Kotwica’s debut as interim special teams coordinator.
Kotwica has worked in the NFL for most of the last 18 years, and he coached with McVay on Washington’s staff. Kotwica was the Denver Broncos special teams coordinator in 2023 and 2024 before joining the Rams staff as a special teams assistant.
“We’ve had a couple of plays that have cost us during the course of the year, but I love the way that our guys are going about the business,” Kotwica said. “They understand the urgency. We’re part of a championship football team and we’re just ready to contribute to holding up that Lombardi [Trophy] early next year.”
Key injuries
Rams: OL Kevin Dotson (ankle, out); DB Josh Wallace (ankle, out); WR Davante Adams (hamstring, doubtful); OL Alaric Jackson (knee, questionable); DL Braden Fiske (ankle, questionable but expected to play); CB Roger McCreary (hip, expected to be activated to roster from injured reserve).
Falcons: CB Mike Hughes (ankle, out); CB Clark Phillips III (triceps/illness, out); DL Sam Roberts (knee/ankle, out); WR Drake London (knee, questionable).
How to watch and listen to Rams vs. Falcons
The Rams (11-4) and the Atlanta Falcons (6-9) will play at 5:15 p.m. PST Monday. The game will be shown on ABC in the Los Angeles area and nationally on ESPN and ESPN Deportes. In Southern California, fans can listen to the game on 710 AM, 93.1 FM and 1330 AM (Español).
Betting odds and lines for Rams vs. Falcons
Who will win Rams vs. Falcons?
Gary Klein’s pick: A few weeks ago, this looked like a potential easy victory for the Rams. Now it could be more difficult. Still, Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford will outduel Kirk Cousins. Rams 30, Falcons 24
NEW Year’s Eve just isn’t right without fireworks, whether it’s a low-key Catherine wheel in your garden or a powerful professional pyrotechnic production.
So here’s the lowdown on the best of this year’s dazzling displays, ranging from riverside revelries in London to castle rock rockets in Edinburgh.
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Revellers ringing in the New Year in our nation’s capital are treated to a sensational displayCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Where is best to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks in the UK?
The Hogmanay fireworks over Edinburgh Castle are another must-see, with rockets fired from the castle rock ringing in the New Year.
The sensational spectacle is visible across much of the city, while a pulsing street party unfolds below on Princes Street.
The combination of live music, traditional Hogmanay rituals and the dramatic castle backdrop makes this one of the most atmospheric midnight moments in the whole of Europe.
Newcastle
Newcastle’s Quayside puts on a striking New Year display over the River Tyne.
It utilises the Tyne Bridge and Glasshouse (formerly the Sage) as a spectacular stage for beautiful bursts in the sky.
There are family-friendly fireworks at 6pm, followed by the midnight main event.
Manchester
Manchester is hosting a fantastic fireworks display on Victoria Street from 10pm.
It’s worth noting that the event is alcohol-free.
But fear not – there’s lots of live entertainment leading up to the New Year countdown.
Cardiff
Cardiff’s New Year 2025/26 celebrations centre around the City Hall.
Edinburgh Castle is the backdrop to an amazing fireworks display
Live music will be performed on a stage in front of the City Hall, so you can have a dance before the fireworks start.
There’s also the Winter Wonderland, with a big wheel, festive drinks and traditional Welsh food.
Other great fireworks displays can be found in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, Brighton Beach, York’s Castle Howard, Northern Meeting Park in Inverness, and Birmingham’s Centenary Square.
Can I watch New Year’s Eve fireworks on TV?
As Big Ben strikes midnight, live coverage of London’s spectacular fireworks display on the River Thames will be broadcast live on TV.
Two weeks before the Alamo Bowl, USC got its best news of the bowl season: Star quarterback Jayden Maiava was forgoing the NFL draft to stay in L.A. for another year.
Two days later, TCU’s star quarterback, Josh Hoover, delivered his own announcement: He was entering the transfer portal.
Those two decisions will have the teams in drastically different places on offense. USC won’t have two of its starting offensive linemen or most of its regular receiving corps, but will have one of the Big Ten’s best quarterbacks at the helm. TCU, meanwhile, has most of its offense available, including star receiver Eric McAlister, but a backup quarterback who last started in 2023 in Ken Seals.
“Ken started 22 games in the SEC,” TCU coach Sonny Dykes said. “He’s been a great teammate, a great practice player. Now he’s going to get a chance to go perform on the big stage.”
Maiava should get plenty of chances Tuesday to show why he’ll be seen as a serious Heisman contender next season. TCU struggles to pressure opposing passers, ranks 109th in the nation in yards allowed through the air and has yet to face a passing attack this season as prolific as USC’s.
Not to mention there’s a notable calm to Maiava that wasn’t there at this point last bowl season.
“He’s just taken giant steps,” offensive coordinator Luke Huard said. “[You] just see him playing free and with a lot of confidence.”
What’s not clear is how much he’ll play, with freshman Husan Longstreet waiting in the wings and USC still hoping he’ll settle for another season sitting behind Maiava.
In a revamp of the 1973 mixed singles match, Aryna Sabalenka will play Nick Kyrgios on Sunday in Dubai.
Who: Aryna Sabalenka vs Nick Kyrgios What: “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition tennis match Where: Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, United Arab Emirates When: Sunday at 7.45pm (15:45 GMT) How to follow: We’ll have all the build-up on Al Jazeera Sport from 13:00 GMT in advance of our live text commentary stream.
Women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka will take on Australian maverick Nick Kyrgios in a “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition tennis match in Dubai on Sunday.
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Sabalenka, 27, will face the 30-year-old former Wimbledon finalist in a modern rendition of tennis icon Billie Jean King’s 1973 showdown with fellow American Bobby Riggs, which turned out to be a watershed moment for both tennis and the women’s movement.
Here is all to know before their much anticipated showdown:
How did the Sabalenka-Kyrgios match come about?
Kyrgios, who was ranked as high as 13 in the world in men’s singles, threw down the gauntlet to Sabalenka during the US Open in September, saying in an interview he would easily dispatch the Belarusian without having to try “100 percent to win”.
He said women cannot return professional men’s serves and claimed he would defeat the world’s top-ranked female player.
Sabalenka responded by saying she was ready to “kick a**”, which eventually led to Evolve, the marketing agency that represents both players, organising this weekend’s matchup.
Aryna Sabalenka hits a backhand in the women’s singles final of this year’s US Open, which she won against Amanda Anisimova on September 6, 2025 [Mike Frey/Imagn Images via Reuters]
What’s the history behind the ‘Battle of the Sexes’?
The original “Battle of the Sexes” took place in 1973 between King, then 29, and Riggs, 55, at the Houston Astrodome.
King, a 12-time singles Grand Slam champion, made history when she defeated the former men’s world number one amateur player 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 in a matchup that drew an estimated 90 million TV viewers worldwide.
King’s straight-sets victory was considered a pivotal moment for women’s sport at the time and solidified her status as a sports and feminist icon of her generation.
What are the rules for ‘Battle of the Sexes’?
Sabalenka, speaking on the Piers Morgan Uncensored YouTube show on December 9, said it would be “really tough” to compete against a male player of Kyrgios’s standard using a full court and standard rules.
As a result, there are several rule modifications for this match:
The players will be limited to just one serve instead of two.
Sabalenka’s side of the court will be 9 percent smaller than a normal tennis court.
It will be a best-of-three-sets contest – with a 10-point tiebreaker in the final set if required.
What has Sabalenka said about the match?
“I’m proud to represent women’s tennis and to be part of this modern take of the iconic Battle of the Sexes match,” Sabalenka said in a news release.
“Dubai is my home, and I know this city loves big, entertaining events. I have a lot of respect for Nick and his talent, but make no mistake, I’m ready to bring my A-game.”
What has Kyrgios said about the match?
Kyrgios said he’ll defeat the four-time Grand Slam champion without having to try hard.
“I think she’s the type of player who genuinely thinks she’s going to win,” Kyrgios said.
“She is not gonna beat me. Do you really think I have to try 100 percent? I’m gonna try because I’m representing the men’s side. I’d say like 6-2 maybe.”
“I think I’m going to be OK. I’m going to go there, and I don’t want her to win. That’s for sure,” he added.
Nick Kyrgios, right, finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the 2022 Wimbledon men’s final [File: Peter van den Berg/USA Today Sports via Reuters]
Is oft-injured Kyrgios planning a return to professional tennis?
Kyrgios will compete at next month’s Brisbane International after receiving a wildcard entry, organisers said on Sunday, as he works towards a potential return to the 2026 Australian Open.
His career has been ravaged by injury over the past couple of years, and he played only five singles matches in 2025, the most recent at the Miami Open in March.
Kyrgios, the 2018 Brisbane champion, is now ranked 673rd in the world with no protected ranking and will also need a wildcard to compete at Melbourne Park.
How to watch the ‘Battle of the Sexes’
The match is being broadcast live and free in the United Kingdom on BBC 1 and streamed on BBC iPlayer.
Please check local guides for access in other countries.
Al Jazeera will provide live text commentary of the match.
The Chargers have never won five in a row under coach Jim Harbaugh, but they have a chance to do so Saturday. It won’t be easy against this Houston Texans defense, ranked No. 1 in the NFL.
Now, the Texans are riding a seven-game winning streak and haven’t dropped a game since a three-point home loss to Denver at the beginning of November.
The Chargers clinched a playoff berth this week but are looking for more than a wild-card spot. If they win Saturday, the AFC West title — and at least one more game at SoFi Stadium — is within reach. Even the AFC’s No. 1 seed is in play.
How the Texans can win: Houston’s defense can hold up against the run and has the secondary to challenge Herbert, but the Texans offense has been one of the league’s worst in the red zone. The Texans need to convert those opportunities into touchdowns. C.J. Stroud is at his best throwing between the numbers when protection holds, although he has a suspect offensive line, and the Texans will lean on short passes to compensate for a shaky running game. Forcing a turnover or two is critical. Houston thrives when it shortens the field and avoids asking the offense to sustain long drives. Field goals alone won’t be enough.
How the Chargers can win: Control the game with balance and patience. Houston’s defense is opportunistic and excellent at forcing turnovers, but it can be stressed if Herbert has time and the Chargers stay committed to the run. That won’t be easy if Kimani Vidal is out. Even modest success on the ground forces the Texans to respect play-action fakes and opens throwing lanes, particularly over the middle. Herbert’s ability to escape pressure and run, especially up the middle against man coverage, could be a hidden weapon late. If the Chargers protect the ball and finish drives instead of settling for field goals, they can keep Houston from dictating the tempo.
BBC thriller The Night Manager is set to return to screens after its successful debut back in 2016
BBC thriller The Night Manager is set to return to screens for its second season.
Based on the characters created by John le Carré, the series followed Jonathan Pine, a night manager of a luxury hotel in Cairo and a former British soldier, who was recruited by the manager of a Foreign Office task force to infiltrate the inner circle of a dangerous arms dealer.
The show won multiple BAFTAs, Emmy Awards, and Golden Globes, including Best Actor for Tom Hiddleston as Pine.
Almost ten years after its explosive finale captivated over ten million viewers, the hit BBC spy thriller is now back with a bang as Pine takes on an explosive new case.
The official synopsis teases: “Jonathan Pine thought he’d buried his past. Now living as Alex Goodwin – a low-level MI6 officer running a quiet surveillance unit in London – his life is comfortingly uneventful.
“Then one night, a chance sighting of an old Roper mercenary prompts a call to action and leads Pine to a violent encounter with a new player: Colombian businessman Teddy Dos Santos.
“On this perilous new journey, Pine meets Roxana Bolaños, a businesswoman who reluctantly helps him infiltrate Teddy’s Colombian arms operation. Once in Colombia, Pine is plunged deep into a deadly plot involving arms and training of a guerrilla army.”
The logline concludes: “As allegiances splinter, Pine races to expose a conspiracy designed to destabilise a nation. And with betrayal at every turn, he must decide whose trust he needs to earn and how far he’s willing to go before it’s too late.”
Here’s everything you need to know about the BBC thriller’s return, including release date, cast, and episode details.
When will The Night Manager be released?
The first episode of season two is set to premiere on BBC One on Thursday, January 1 at 9pm. The new series will then be available to stream on Prime Video from January 11.
Who is in the cast of The Night Manager?
Tom Hiddleston returns as former British intelligence operative, Jonathan Pine, with Diego Calva as Teddy, and Camila Morrone as Roxana. They are joined by Indira Varma as Mayra, Paul Chahidi as Basil, and Hayley Squires as Sally.
Olivia Colman reprises her role as Angela Burr, alongside returning cast members Alistair Petrie as Sandy Langbourne, Douglas Hodge as Rex Mayhew, Michael Nardone as Frisky, and Noah Jupe as Daniel Roper.
The cast and creatives have promised “danger, espionage, betrayal, love, heartbreak, drama, and suspense” in the next chapter of Pine’s story.
How many episodes are in The Night Manager?
The Night Manager season two consists of six hour-long episodes. After the first episode premieres on New Year’s Day, the drama will continue three days later on Sunday, January 4 at 9pm on BBC One.
The following four episodes will air every Sunday at 9pm, with the explosive finale expected to air on February 1.
For international viewers, the first three episodes will drop on Prime Video on Sunday, January 11, with subsequent instalments premiering every Sunday through to February 1.
The Night Manager season 2 premieres on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 9pm on Thursday, January 1
For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new Everything Gossip website
Avicii narrates the film from his perspective and offers insight into his life away from the stage. The documentary also features previously unseen material from the Swedish artist’s life and conversations with his collaborators, including Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
The Stockholm-born sensation ruled the EDM world during the 2010s with number-one anthems like Wake Me Up and Levels. However, he battled health and substance abuse issues away from the spotlight, reports the Daily Record.
Audiences were moved by the film at the time of its release, with many urging others to tune in. On X, formerly Twitter, one excited supporter declared: “AVICII’S LAST SHOW AND HIS DOCUMENTARY ARE ON NETFLIX RUUUUUUN.”
Someone else commented: “I have just finished watching ‘I’m Tim’ the new Avicii documentary on Netflix. It was very nicely put together and helps show the true genius and character of Tim Bergling. I recommend checking it out” whilst a third shared: “Avicii doc on Netflix… A must-watch.”
Another viewer lauded the film, saying: “This Avicii I’m Tim documentary that was just released on Netflix was absolutely incredible.”
Some reflected on the DJ’s personal battles, with one X user stating: “Avicii’s documentary on Netflix is one of the saddest stories I have ever watched.”
Music fans also took to Reddit to commend the documentary, with one admitting: “I really enjoyed the ‘I’m Tim’ documentary. Very well done.
“And to watch the last show after that was…bittersweet. Sad that Tim just wanted to make music and the success of his music became too much for him.”
The film quickly climbed Netflix’s charts when it premiered in December 2024, and it was released alongside a concert special of his final performance in Ibiza, titled Avicii: My Last Show.
The gig took place on 28 August 2016, at the renowned party hotspot, Ushuaïa Hotel. Despite 2016 marking his final live performance, Avicii continued to produce music for another two years before tragically ending his own life in April 2018.
Avicii – I’m Tim and Avicii: My Last Show are streaming now on Netflix. For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website.
However, these might not be the most suitable picks for the younger audience. So, here’s a guide to where you can catch some of the top-notch Christmas films for children.
Christmas films for children and toddlers
The Snowman
The 1980s classic fantasy animation, The Snowman, is an iconic and charming viewing experience for the entire family.
The Snowman spins the story of a young lad who crafts a snowman that springs to life while everyone else is fast asleep, whisking him off on an extraordinary journey.
Adding to the thrill is the fact that the narrative is introduced by none other than the late glam rock legend David Bowie.
Mickey Mouse also has his own holiday film with Once Upon A Christmas, a compilation-style movie featuring three separate tales about love, kinship and the spirit of giving.
This animated Disney gem stars Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Daisy Duck, Pluto, and naturally, Mickey Mouse himself.
Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmas is available to watch on Disney+.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
**For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website**
A Charlie Brown Christmas may be celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, but it remains a timeless classic for good reason.
Disheartened by the commercialisation of the holiday season, Charlie embarks on a quest to uncover the true essence of Christmas by directing his school’s nativity.
Through this venture, he discovers that Christmas isn’t about material possessions but love and the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth.
A Charlie Brown Christmas is available on Apple TV.
Arthur Christmas
Featuring the voices of James McAvoy and Bill Nighy, Arthur Christmas centres around Santa Claus’ well-meaning but bumbling grandson, Arthur.
Upon realising that Santa has overlooked delivering a present to a little girl on Christmas Eve, Arthur embarks on a frantic last-minute quest to ensure it reaches her before daybreak.
Arthur Christmas is available for rent or purchase on Prime Video, or for streaming via Sky Go or NOW.
Klaus
Another contemporary Christmas family favourite is Klaus, which explores the origin story of Santa Claus.
After spoilt postman Jesper is banished to the desolate town of Smeerensburg, he teams up with reclusive woodsman Klaus to distribute toys, igniting community spirit and a cherished new tradition.
Voiced by the legendary actor Tom Hanks, The Polar Express follows a young lad who, doubting the magic of Christmas, embarks on an enchanting train journey to the North Pole.
During his voyage, he forms new friendships and experiences the true essence of Christmas.
The Polar Express is available for rent or purchase on Prime Video, or for streaming via Sky Go or NOW.
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Often hailed as one of the greatest Christmas films ever, the 1990s flick The Muppets Christmas Carol holds a special place in many hearts.
Featuring Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Gonzo, Rizzo and the rest of the Muppets crew, these endearing puppets breathe life into Charles Dickens’ timeless story, A Christmas Carol.
At the centre of this yuletide film is none other than actor Michael Caine, portraying the curmudgeonly Ebenezer Scrooge.
The Muppet Christmas Carol can be viewed on Disney+.
