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  • Olivia's new song, The Oscars bans AI-generated movies and screenwriting, Diego joins 'Tangled' cast

Olivia's new song, The Oscars bans AI-generated movies and screenwriting, Diego joins 'Tangled' cast

Plus.. Spirit Airlines shuts down

Olivia Rodrigo debuts new song on SNL

Source: YouTube/SNL

Olivia Rodrigo gave fans a major surprise on Saturday Night Live by unveiling a brand-new, unreleased song during her hosting debut.

While the singer delivered a full slate of performances, it was her emotional second number that truly stole the spotlight. Introduced by actor Connor Storrie, Rodrigo premiered a track titled “Begged,” a raw ballad that dives into the vulnerability of wanting more from a relationship than what’s being given.

With lyrics like “I’m cool and forgiving, I’ll take what you’re giving,” the song captured a quieter, more introspective side of the pop star.

The performance itself leaned into that intimacy. Rodrigo sang while seated on a swing, visually echoing the aesthetic of her upcoming album You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love, creating a stripped-down moment that contrasted sharply with the night’s earlier theatrics.

The track has yet to be released on streaming platforms, making its debut all the more exclusive for viewers.

The Academy bans AI-generated media from getting awards

Source: Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

The Oscars are drawing a firm line in the sand as artificial intelligence continues to reshape Hollywood, with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences making it clear that only human creativity will take center stage in key categories.

In newly updated rules, the Academy announced that performances must be “demonstrably performed by humans,” while screenwriting must be entirely human-authored to qualify for awards. The move marks a significant shift as AI tools become more common across the film industry, raising questions about authorship and originality.

The clarification arrives amid growing debate over the role of technology in entertainment. Recent developments, including plans to digitally recreate late actor Val Kilmer using AI for a future film, have intensified concerns about how far studios might go in replacing or replicating human talent.

Still, the Academy stopped short of banning AI altogether. Filmmakers can continue using the technology in other aspects of production, but its presence won’t directly boost or harm a project’s chances of earning a nomination. Instead, voters will weigh how much of the creative work remains rooted in human effort.

Spirit Airlines shuts down due to bankruptcy

Source: Spirit Airlines

Thousands of travelers were left scrambling after Spirit Airlines abruptly shut down operations over the weekend, bringing all flights to a halt and stranding passengers across the country.

The budget airline ceased service early Saturday following mounting financial troubles, including two bankruptcy filings in recent years. Company leadership said there was “no alternative,” citing a sharp and sustained spike in fuel costs that made continued operations impossible.

The airline confirmed that most refunds were processed shortly after the shutdown, though some passengers may need to wait several days for the funds to reflect in their accounts.

The ripple effects extend beyond travelers. Roughly 17,000 employees are now out of work, with the company working to return crew members home.

As the fallout continues, other carriers, including JetBlue and United Airlines, have stepped in with discounted fares to help stranded passengers reach their destinations, offering a temporary lifeline amid the sudden collapse.

Diego Luna joins cast of live-action 'Tangled'

Source: Carlos Gonzalez/The Times

Disney’s live-action Tangled is adding a fresh twist to its fairy tale, with Diego Luna joining the cast in a brand-new role created specifically for the reimagined film.

The upcoming adaptation, set to begin filming in Spain this June, is already shaping up to be a major production. Rising star Teagan Croft takes on the iconic role of Rapunzel, while Milo Manheim steps in as charming rogue Flynn Rider. Meanwhile, Kathryn Hahn is set to portray the manipulative Mother Gothel, adding her signature flair to the villainous role.

Details about Luna’s character remain tightly under wraps, including whether the actor will showcase his musical abilities in the film. The project will be directed by Michael Gracey, known for The Greatest Showman, suggesting the remake will lean heavily into its musical roots.

The original animated film was a massive success, earning over $591 million worldwide and becoming a fan favorite. With a new cast, fresh characters, and Disney’s continued push into live-action adaptations, this version of Tangled is already generating strong buzz.

ICYMI:

  • Shakira drew a massive crowd of around 2 million fans during a free concert at Copacabana Beach on Saturday night (May 2), according to city officials. The event transformed one of the world’s most iconic waterfronts into a sea of spectators, marking one of the largest concert gatherings in recent memory and further cementing Shakira’s global star power.

  • The Devil Wears Prada 2 has stormed the global box office with a massive $233.6 million opening, marking a powerful debut for the highly anticipated sequel.

  • aespa has officially announced their new single WDA (Whole Different Animal), set for release on May 11.

— Bea Bertuldo

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