Entertainment
Michael B. Jordan Claims First Oscar Win for Best Actor in ‘Sinners’
In a historic moment at the 98th Academy Awards, Michael B. Jordan took home the Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his powerful dual performance in the film Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler.
The victory marks Jordan’s first Academy Award win and first nomination in his career. He portrayed twin brothers Smoke and Stack in the supernatural vampire allegory, a role that blended intense drama, racial commentary, and genre elements in the blockbuster hit.
Jordan triumphed over a competitive field that included nominees such as Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Ethan Hawke.
The category was widely seen as one of the evening’s closest races, with four of the five contenders vying for their first Oscar.
Accepting the award to a roaring ovation at the Dolby Theatre, Jordan delivered an emotional speech. “God is good,” he began, before expressing deep gratitude: “I stand here because of the people who came before me,” acknowledging trailblazers like Denzel Washington and Halle Berry.
He thanked his family, the film’s team, and supporters throughout his journey, noting the significance of the milestone as one of the few Black actors to win in the category joining legends such as Sidney Poitier and Washington and the first to earn the honor for portraying twins.
Sinners, a critical and commercial success, also earned recognition in other categories, including a win for Original Screenplay for Coogler.
Jordan’s performance was praised for its depth and versatility, contributing to the film’s strong awards momentum.
The win solidifies Jordan’s transition from acclaimed actor and producer to Oscar-winning talent, capping a celebrated night for the film and its collaborators.
The actor died after battle with Cancer
Popular Yoruba Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, widely known as Ogogo, has died at the age of 66.
The veteran actor passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026, after a prolonged battle with stage 4 cancer. His death was confirmed by his daughter, Kira (also referred to as Kaira) Taiwo, during an emotional Instagram Live session in which she said, “My daddy is dead.”
The news was also announced by industry figures, including Best of Nollywood awards founder Seun Oloketuyi, who wrote: “Taiwo Hassan Ogogo is dead. He finally lost the battle of life.” Fellow actor Jide Kosoko and others also confirmed the development.
Ogogo’s family had recently appealed for specialised medical help after doctors said chemotherapy was no longer viable. Earlier rumours of his death earlier in the week were debunked by the family.
Born on October 31, 1959, in Ilaro, Ogun State, Taiwo Hassan became one of the most recognisable faces in Yoruba cinema over a career spanning more than three decades. He was celebrated for memorable roles as warriors, stern fathers, chiefs and other powerful characters that helped shape modern Yoruba filmmaking.
His passing has drawn tributes from fans, colleagues and members of the Nollywood community mourning the loss of a veteran who entertained millions.
Entertainment
US Actress Hayden Panettiere Dies At 36
Born in 1989, Panettiere became a child star and went on to have numerous roles in both film and TV.
Her credits include “Remember The Titans,” “Ice Princess,” “Scream 4” and “Scream VI.”
•Hayden Panettiere
Hayden Panettiere, an actress known for her roles in popular TV series “Heroes” and “Nashville,” has died aged 36.
Her father confirmed the actress’ death in a statement to ABC News.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen,” he said.
He asked that her family be given privacy while they “process this unimaginable loss.”
Details about her death were not immediately given, but news outlet TMZ said there was an “open investigation” into the cause.
Born in 1989, Panettiere became a child star and went on to have numerous roles in both film and TV. Her credits include “Remember The Titans,” “Ice Princess,” “Scream 4” and “Scream VI.”
Entertainment
Disney agrees deal to let TikTokers use its films and TV shows in videos
The scheme will be launched in the US before being rolled out to other countries.
Image: PIXAR/ BBC
Disney and TikTok have agreed a deal which will allow creators to use clips from Disney films, including its subsidiaries, in their videos.
It means clips from hit franchises like Star Wars, Toy Story and the Marvel Cinematic Universe will soon start popping up in videos – which will also be shared on Disney’s short-form video platform, Verts.
The scheme will be launched in the US before being rolled out to other countries.
Neither company shared financial details of the agreement, although it follows the collapse of a $1bn (£745m) deal between Disney and OpenAI which would have let people use its characters in AI-generated videos.
Source: BBC NEWS
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