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Tems, Rihanna lose Oscar to India’s ‘RRR’

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It was a disappointing night for global sensation, Temilade Openiyi popularly known as Tems, and co-songwriters Rihanna, Ludwig Göransson, and Ryan Coogler at Sunday evening’s Oscars ceremony.

With the foursome losing the Academy Award for best original song, the viral dance song “Naatu Naatu” made Oscars history as the first song from an Indian film to snag the prize, thanks to composer M.M. Keeravani and songwriter by Chandrabose.

The win for the Telugu-language song followed an exuberant performance, including the famed “hook dance” steps from the crowd-pleasing film “RRR” rejigged for the Dolby Theatre stage.

Fresh off her career-spanning Super Bowl halftime performance, during which she revealed her second pregnancy, Rihanna performed her nominated song, ‘Lift Me Up’, in what was one of the night’s most anticipated moments.

Donning black and silver beaded wide leg pants with elbow-length black leather gloves, swathes of sheer tulle dripping with rhinestones cascaded over her baby bump, the superstar sang “Lift Me Up” from the sequel “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”

It was a soft but impassioned tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman, who starred in the original film before losing a battle with colon cancer.

Following Rihanna’s performance, the last of the evening, her partner A$AP Rocky cheered her on, raising a champagne glass to the global icon and mother of his children.

And Lady Gaga delivered a surprise performance she wasn’t originally slated to perform of her nominated song “Hold My Hand,” which she wrote for the Tom Cruise blockbuster sequel “Top Gun: Maverick.”

After hitting the carpet in high-glamour Versace and heavy red-lipped, smoky-eyed makeup, Gaga stripped back her look to match her raw, sparsely-produced performance.

The versatile pop phenom who has already won an Oscar for her song “Shallow” from “A Star is Born” wore a black t-shirt and jeans ripped at the knee, capping off the look with Converse sneakers, a French braid and barely-there makeup.

Calling her song “deeply personal,” Lady Gaga offered a heartfelt message before launching into her set: “We need a lot of love to walk through this life.”

“We all need a hero sometimes there are heroes all around us in unassuming places,” she continued. “But you might find that you could be your own hero even if you feel broken inside.”

The 14-time Oscar-nominated songwriter Diane Warren joined performer Sofia Carson onstage to perform their nominated song “Applause” from the movie “Tell It Like a Woman.”

That preceded a bizarre performance featuring none other than David Byrne that aimed to achieve the level of wackiness in the film “Everything Everywhere All At Once” the night’s big winner.

The track “This Is a Life” also earned a nomination for best song, performed for the film by Byrne, Mitski and Son Lux.

Mitski did not join Sunday’s festivities, with “EEAAO” cast member Stephanie Hsu who earned a best supporting actress nomination for her role in the film taking the stage in her place, wearing, like Byrne, all white.

From martial arts choreography to googly-eyed back-up dancers to the infamous hot dog fingers, the staging was rife with references to the film including a visual of Raccacoonie, the film’s absurdist riff on animated classic “Ratatouille.”

Lenny Kravitz graced the Academy with his presence to deliver a touching, piano-driven version of his song “Calling All Angels” for the night’s in memoriam segment.

John Travolta choked back tears as he introduced Kravitz’s performance to honor those who’ve died over the past year Ray Liotta, Jean Luc-Godard and Angela Lansbury among them referencing his beloved “Grease” co-star and friend, the late Olivia Newton-John, with a play on her famous song “Hopelessly Devoted To You.”

Hollywood maestro John Williams whose iconic compositions include the scores to “Jurassic Park,” “Jaws” and “Star Wars” fell short of setting the record for oldest Oscar winner ever (though he’s still the oldest nominee).

At 91, his work on Steven Spielberg’s “The Fabelmans” was up for best score, his 53rd nomination but that prize went to Volker Bertelmann for “All Quiet on the Western Front.”

 

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Ojez Forum to Honor Guv’ Ken Calebs Olumese for His Impact on Nigerian Entertainment on Sunday

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Lagos is set for an unforgettable evening as Ken Calebs Olumese, the legendary “Guvnor” of Nigeria’s nightlife, receives a Special Recognition Award from The Forum by Ojez. The event, scheduled for Sunday, January 26, 2025, at O’jez Lounge, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, will celebrate his immense contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Fresh off his 80th birthday milestone, Olumese remains an icon in the country’s nightlife and hospitality scene. As the founder of Niteshift Coliseum, he created an exclusive club that hosted some of Nigeria’s most influential figures—from business moguls to top politicians and A-list entertainers. His visionary leadership transformed the nightclub experience, making it a hub for high-profile networking and premium entertainment.

According to Chief Joseph Odobeatu, Chairman/CEO of O’jez Entertainment, honoring Olumese is a well-deserved tribute to a man who redefined nightlife culture in Nigeria.

“We are excited to celebrate a pioneer who set the standard for premium entertainment in Nigeria. His legacy continues to inspire generations in the industry,” Odobeatu said.

The Forum by Ojez, known for honoring distinguished personalities, will feature electrifying live performances from top musicians and a DJ set to keep the energy high. It promises to be an evening of celebration, nostalgia, and entertainment. You’re all invited.

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Fathia Balogun In Gay Mood as son graduates with first class from UNILAG

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Nollywood actress Faithia Williams celebrates her son, Khalid Balogun, who graduates with a first-class degree from the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

Taking to Instagram to share the joyous moment, Faithia posted a photo of Khalid along with a heartfelt message expressing her overwhelming joy and gratitude.

The proud mother praised her son’s dedication and perseverance, attributing his academic success to hard work and resilience. She also offered prayers for his continued achievements, wishing him happiness and fulfillment as he embarks on a new chapter in life.

In her post, Faithia wrote:
“Hmm, I’m short of words… Alhamdulillah! Alhamdulillah! Alhamdulillah! My darling son, @khalidgram__, I’m overwhelmed with joy and gratitude as I celebrate your incredible achievement! You’ve worked tirelessly and persevered through the challenges, and today, you’ve emerged with a FIRST CLASS DEGREE from the University of Lagos’ Creative Department!

“Alhamdulillah, my heart is bursting with pride and love for you, my darling son! As you embark on this new journey, I ask that you continue to be guided by faith, courage, and determination.”

Faithia’s heartfelt post not only highlights her son’s academic excellence but also reflects her unwavering support as a mother.

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Seun Oloketuyi Appointed as Member of the Advisory Board for Kaduna International Film Festival

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I am pleased to announce my appointment as a member of the advisory board for the Kaduna International Film Festival. This honor is a recognition of my contributions to the growth and development of Nollywood and the African creative industry at large.

 

The Kaduna International Film Festival, established in 2018, has been a beacon of cultural promotion, tourism, youth empowerment, and peace-building in northern Nigeria. As the first international film festival in the region, it continues to bridge the gap in the northern film and creative industry, fostering inclusion and growth across the nation.

 

I am committed to leveraging my experience and expertise to further the festival’s mission of celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and empowering young creatives. This opportunity serves as a platform to support the festival’s efforts in strengthening the film industry, both in Nigeria and beyond.

 

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of the Kaduna International Film Festival for entrusting me with this role. Together, we will continue to elevate the creative industry and showcase the best of Nigerian talent to the world.

 

Signed:

Seun Oloketuyi

Founder Best of Nollywood Awards Chairman Advisory board Bon Awards and Advisory Board Member,

Kaduna International Film Festival

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