A young Palestinian TikTok star, known for sharing the harsh realities of life in Gaza, was killed by an Israeli airstrike

CAIRO (AP) — In the war-torn region of Gaza, 19-year-old Palestinian TikTok star Medo Halimy documented the everyday challenges and absurdities of life under siege. On a seemingly typical Monday, Halimy made his way to a local internet cafe—essentially a tent equipped with Wi-Fi—where displaced Palestinians could stay connected to the outside world. He met up with his friend and collaborator, 18-year-old Talal Murad. They took a selfie together, captioned “Finally Reunited” on Instagram, and began catching up. Suddenly, a flash of light erupted, followed by an explosion of white heat and flying debris. Murad felt a sharp pain in his neck and noticed Halimy bleeding from his head. A nearby car on the coastal road was engulfed in flames, the apparent target of the Israeli airstrike. It took ten agonizing minutes for an ambulance to arrive. Several hours later, doctors confirmed Halimy’s death.

Brazilian judge orders suspension of X platform after refusal to name legal representative

SAO PAULO (AP) — A Brazilian Supreme Court justice escalated tensions with Elon Musk by ordering a nationwide suspension of his social media giant X. The suspension came after Musk refused to appoint a legal representative in Brazil, a requirement set by Justice Alexandre de Moraes. The justice had warned Musk that failing to comply within a 24-hour deadline would result in the platform being blocked in the country. Brazil is a crucial market for X, particularly since it has faced significant advertiser losses after Musk acquired the former Twitter in 2022. Market research from Emarketer indicates that about 40 million Brazilians, roughly one-fifth of the population, use X at least once per month.

‘Dancing With the Stars’ pro Artem Chigvintsev arrested on domestic violence charge in California

YOUNTVILLE, Calif. (AP) — Artem Chigvintsev, professional dancer on “Dancing With the Stars,” was arrested and charged with felony domestic violence in Yountville, California. Napa County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Henry Wofford stated that deputies responded to a domestic violence call on Thursday and found evidence suggesting potential abuse. Chigvintsev was detained and subsequently charged. While specific details about the alleged victim and their relationship to Chigvintsev remain undisclosed, Wofford confirmed that Chigvintsev was released on $25,000 bail.

Trump film ‘The Apprentice’ secures distributor and will premiere before the election

NEW YORK (AP) — After struggling to attract interest post-Cannes Film Festival, “The Apprentice,” a film starring Sebastian Stan as a young Donald Trump, has secured a distributor. Briarcliff Entertainment plans to release the film on October 11 in both U.S. and Canadian theaters, just weeks before the November 5 election. Directed by Danish-Iranian filmmaker Ali Abbasi, the film’s timely release aims to influence voters before they head to the polls. Steven Cheung, communications director for the Trump campaign, criticized the film’s release as “election interference by Hollywood elites.”

Nicole Kidman returns to Venice Film Festival with ‘Babygirl,’ an erotic drama

VENICE, Italy (AP) — Nicole Kidman stars in “Babygirl,” an erotic thriller that explores themes beyond just sex, including desire, secrets, marriage, truth, power, and consent. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival and is set for release by A24 in December. Kidman plays a female CEO who begins an affair with a younger intern, portrayed by Harris Dickinson. Antonio Banderas plays her husband. Kidman believes the film will spark conversations for months to come.

FKA Twigs thriving creatively with ‘The Crow’ and new album

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A decade after her debut album, FKA Twigs is busier than ever. The 36-year-old artist is working on her third album “Eusexua,” which she promises will be released “very, very, very soon.” Additionally, she has found creative fulfillment in acting, starring alongside Bill Skarsgård in “The Crow,” a new adaptation of James O’Barr’s graphic novel. She is also in production for “The Carpenter’s Son,” a horror film about Jesus Christ’s childhood co-starring Nicolas Cage. FKA Twigs is committed to advocacy as well, serving as an ambassador for Sistah Space, an organization supporting victims of domestic abuse.

‘K-pop Idols’ documentary highlights diversity and challenges in K-pop industry

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The Apple TV+ documentary series “K-pop Idols” delves into how the K-pop industry is embracing diversity while facing ongoing challenges. The six-part series features Korean American star Jessi and emerging K-pop bands like Blackswan and Cravity. Blackswan members Fatou and Nvee revealed they practice up to 10 hours daily, focusing on choreography and vocal sessions to promote their latest songs. K-pop trainees undergo rigorous training that includes classes in manners, language, dance, and choreography. Despite efforts to counter negative narratives about K-pop, some issues persist within the industry.

Norwegian princess set to marry American self-professed shaman amidst controversy

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) — Princess Märtha Louise of Norway will marry American self-professed shaman Durek Verret this weekend in southern Norway. The wedding comes amid widespread criticism and declining support for the Scandinavian royals. The 52-year-old princess is fourth in line for the Norwegian throne but announced in 2022 that she would no longer officially represent the royal house to focus more on her relationship with Verret. Despite their engagement in 2022, Verret will not receive royal titles or official duties once married.