Pramod Thomas is a senior correspondent with Asian Media Group since 2020, bringing 19 years of journalism experience across business, politics, sports, communities, and international relations. His career spans both traditional and digital media platforms, with eight years specifically focused on digital journalism. This blend of experience positions him well to navigate the evolving media landscape and deliver content across various formats. He has worked with national and international media organisations, giving him a broad perspective on global news trends and reporting standards.
ARJUN TENDULKAR made his Indian Premier League debut on Sunday (16) bowling for Mumbai Indians, the team once captained by his illustrious batsman father Sachin Tendulkar.
Standing at over six feet (1.83 metres) tall, the 23-year-old left-hander was given the new ball in the match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.
He joined five-time IPL winners Mumbai in 2021 -- making his T20 debut for the state team the same year -- but this was the first time he had been picked for the franchise.
The paceman has played seven first-class matches for Goa, after shifting bases to the western state last year.
His father, who has almost god-like status in cricket-mad India, began his career with Mumbai state's junior team before being picked for the senior side at the age of 15.
He won his first cap for India in 1989 before going on to become the highest Test scorer of all time as well as the first player to score 100 international centuries. He retired in 2013.
Charli XCX ends her Brat era with a South Korean festival performance
Pop star leaves fans emotional with farewell message on stage screen
Teases upcoming A24 film The Moment based on her own concept
Singer shifts focus from music to film after blockbuster success
Charli XCX has officially closed the chapter on her acclaimed Brat era with an emotional final performance at South Korea’s One Universe Festival, where she also teased her next project. The British pop star, who dominated global charts with Brat, used her farewell show to surprise fans with a teaser for her upcoming A24 film The Moment.
Charli XCX confirms her next chapter with upcoming A24 film The Moment Getty Images
What happened at Charli XCX’s final Brat concert?
On 15 August, Charli XCX took the stage in Gwacheon-si for her last headlining performance linked to Brat, the album that turned her from cult favourite to mainstream force. As she wrapped her set, a huge screen behind her displayed the words: “Please don’t let it be over.”
The message struck a chord with fans, who had been following her whirlwind year of success. Shortly after, she posted a clip on Instagram showing a film slate marked The Moment, confirming her move towards cinema.
Why is the Brat era significant in Charli XCX’s career?
Released in June 2024, Brat became Charli’s most successful album to date, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. Its lime-green cover, hyperpop energy, and cultural reach made it more than just a record. From influencing U.S. political campaigns to dominating TikTok trends, Brat marked a turning point in the perception of experimental pop.
Charli herself admitted she never expected the record’s impact. Speaking earlier this year, she said: “I don’t really feel the pressure because you can never do the same thing twice. My next record will probably be a flop, which I’m down for to be honest.”
What do we know about Charli XCX’s new film The Moment ?
The most talked-about reveal from her farewell concert was her upcoming A24 project The Moment. The film, based on her own concept, signals a bold shift into storytelling on screen. While details remain under wraps, fans online are already speculating about its potential to capture the same disruptive energy that made Brat so influential.
This is not Charli’s first step into acting. She is also set to appear in several upcoming films including I Want Your Sex with Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman, the satire Sacrifice with Chris Evans and Anya Taylor-Joy, and a fantasy adaptation of 100 Nights of Hero.
Charli XCX closes Brat era with final show and teases new film ‘The Moment’Getty Images
What’s next for Charli XCX after Brat ?
With music milestones behind her, Charli XCX is turning her attention to film while still maintaining her reputation as an artist. She recently collaborated with Japanese horror director Takashi Miike for a new project and continues to expand her acting portfolio.
On a personal note, the singer also married The 1975’s drummer George Daniel in London last month. The wedding was a private ceremony at Hackney Town Hall, attended by close friends and family.
Charli XCX and George Daniel’s wedding photos spark a new alt-pop moodboard Instagram/charli_xcx
As she steps into a new creative phase, fans may have to wait before hearing another record, but Charli’s latest pivot suggests she is just as committed to breaking boundaries in cinema as she has been in music.
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Quentin Tarantino confirms his first West End play debut in London
Quentin Tarantino says his first-ever play will premiere in London’s West End.
The director confirmed the script is complete and work begins in January 2026.
He plans to relocate with his family to the UK during the production.
Tarantino hinted the play could also become his final film if it succeeds.
Hollywood filmmaker Quentin Tarantino has confirmed he is bringing his West End play debut to London, marking his first step into theatre. Speaking on The Church of Tarantino podcast, the Oscar-winning director of Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill revealed that the script is finished and that he will begin work on the project in early 2026. The move signals a new chapter for the 62-year-old, who said he intends to spend two years on the production and even relocate to the UK with his wife, singer Daniella Pick, and their two children.
Quentin Tarantino confirms his first West End play debut in London Getty Images
What has Quentin Tarantino said about his West End play?
Tarantino told the podcast that the untitled play is “all written” and confirmed it will be his next project. He explained that rehearsals and production will begin in January 2026, with the expectation that the show could premiere by 2027.
“It’ll probably be a year before it’s in front of an audience,” he said, adding that he is preparing for the play to be a success. “If it’s a flop, then I will be done very quickly.”
The filmmaker also suggested that if the West End production is well received, it could later be adapted into a film, potentially serving as the tenth and final movie of his career.
Tarantino plans to relocate with his wife Daniella Pick and children to the UKGetty Images
Why is Tarantino moving to the UK?
The director revealed he is planning to move to England with his family for the duration of the play’s production. Tarantino, who currently lives in Tel Aviv, said the relocation would allow him to closely oversee the project.
He explained that he intends to spend the rest of 2025 with his family before shifting focus entirely to his West End debut. “We’ll start the ball rolling on it in January… it’s going to take a year and a half to two years of my life,” he told the podcast.
Reports have also pointed out that staging a production in London is more financially viable than Broadway, where higher costs often limit new works.
Rehearsals for Tarantino’s West End debut are set to begin in January 2026Getty Images
Has Quentin Tarantino worked in theatre before?
Although this will be Tarantino’s official West End play debut, it is not his first experience with theatre. In 2015, following a script leak, he staged The Hateful Eight as a live reading. He also adapted his 2019 film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood into a play, showing his interest in moving stories from screen to stage.
His new project is expected to be a comedy, although no storyline or cast details have been announced yet.
Quentin Tarantino says the play could also be adapted into his final filmGetty Images
What else is Tarantino working on?
Alongside the play, Tarantino has been busy with film projects. He wrote the script for The Adventures of Cliff Booth, a Netflix sequel to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood centred on Brad Pitt’s stuntman character. The film is being directed by David Fincher, whom Tarantino praised as “one of the two best directors working today.”
He also revealed why he abandoned his planned project The Movie Critic, saying: “Every Tarantino title promises so much, except The Movie Critic. Who wants to see a movie about a critic?”
Quentin Tarantino revealed his theatre script is already completeGetty Images
Tarantino has long maintained he intends to retire after making ten films, counting Kill Bill Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 as a single entry. With nine films already completed, the success of his West End debut could shape how he closes his directing career.
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Kareena Kapoor once shared she felt “normal” in her relationship with Shahid Kapoor
Kareena Kapoor once shared that she loved feeling “normal” in her Shahid Kapoor relationship.
The actress said ordinary moments with Shahid mattered more than grand gestures.
Kareena admitted she never rode his bike due to fear of heights and speed.
Their chemistry in Jab We Met remains one of Bollywood’s most iconic pairings.
Kareena Kapoor Khan has opened up in the past about her Shahid Kapoor relationship, and a resurfaced throwback interview is once again catching attention. The actress, who dated Shahid in the mid-2000s before marrying Saif Ali Khan, reflected on the simplicity she valued most in their bond. Speaking to Cosmopolitan, Kareena admitted that despite being one of Bollywood’s most high-profile couples, what she cherished most was the ability to live an ordinary life away from the spotlight.
Kareena Kapoor once shared she felt “normal” in her relationship with Shahid Kapoor Getty Images
What did Kareena Kapoor say about her Shahid Kapoor relationship?
In the candid conversation, Kareena revealed that the best part of her Shahid Kapoor relationship was the sense of normalcy it brought to her otherwise hectic life. She explained, “I get to be normal and do normal things,” highlighting how meaningful it was to experience everyday moments with the Kabir Singh star.
At the time of the interview, the couple were still in the early stages of dating. Kareena admitted they were protective of their romance and preferred to keep it private due to their demanding schedules. Despite the pressures of fame, the actress said the simplicity of being able to enjoy little things together stood out the most in her memory.
Kareena Kapoor admitted she never joined Shahid on his bike due to fear of speedGetty Images
Why did Kareena avoid Shahid Kapoor’s bike rides?
During the same interview, Kareena also confessed that she never rode with Shahid on his motorbike. She explained that she has always had a fear of heights and speed, which kept her away from the adventurous side of her then-boyfriend. While Shahid was often seen zipping around on two wheels, Kareena admitted that she preferred to keep both feet on the ground.
The revelation offered fans a glimpse into their real-life dynamic, showing that beyond the glamorous image, the couple had everyday quirks just like anyone else.
Kareena Kapoor reveals what she cherished most about Shahid Kapoor relationship in resurfaced interviewInstagram/shah.idkareena
When did Kareena and Shahid Kapoor break up?
Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor’s relationship came to an end in 2007, the same year they delivered their career-defining hit, Imtiaz Ali’s Jab We Met. Their on-screen chemistry as Geet and Aditya is still considered one of Bollywood’s most beloved romantic pairings.
After the split, the former couple reunited professionally in Milenge Milenge (2010), a remake of Hollywood’s Serendipity. However, unlike Jab We Met, the film failed to make an impact at the box office.
Both stars eventually moved on in their personal lives. Kareena married actor Saif Ali Khan in 2012, and the couple now have two sons. Shahid tied the knot with Mira Rajput in 2015, and they also have two children.
Kareena Kapoor says everyday moments with Shahid Kapoor mattered more than glamour in resurfaced interviewGetty Images
What are Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor working on now?
On the work front, Kareena Kapoor was recently seen in Rohit Shetty’s Singham Again. She is now set to collaborate with filmmaker Meghna Gulzar for her upcoming drama Daayra, which also stars Malayalam superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran. Shahid Kapoor, meanwhile, was last seen in Deva and has now reunited with his mentor Vishal Bhardwaj for an untitled action-thriller.
Even years after their breakup, Kareena’s throwback remarks on her Shahid Kapoor relationship continue to intrigue fans, showing the lasting impact of their romance.
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Scott Rose-Marsh has reportedly auditioned for the next James Bond film
British actor Scott Rose-Marsh has reportedly screen tested for the new James Bond film.
The 37-year-old was asked to read lines from GoldenEye without imitating past 007 stars.
His audition challenges reports that Amazon wanted a much younger actor in his 20s.
Bond 26 will be directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Steven Knight.
British rising star Scott Rose-Marsh has reportedly taken part in a James Bond screen test, fuelling speculation over who will replace Daniel Craig in the iconic role. The 37-year-old actor, who has credits in Krays: Code of Silence and Wolves of War, is the latest name linked to the coveted part. His audition comes as filmmaker Denis Villeneuve and Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight prepare to usher in a new era of 007 with Bond 26.
Scott Rose-Marsh has reportedly auditioned for the next James Bond film Instagram/scottrosemarsh
Who is Scott Rose-Marsh and what are his acting credits?
Scott Rose-Marsh may not be a household name, but the British actor has been steadily building his career in both film and television. His screen credits include the crime drama Krays: Code of Silence (2021) and the war thriller Wolves of War. On television, he has appeared in Chloe and Stephen Merchant’s The Outlaws.
At 37, Rose-Marsh is almost the same age Daniel Craig was when he debuted as 007 in Casino Royale (2006). This raises questions about whether Amazon, which recently acquired MGM and the Bond franchise in a deal worth around £790 million (₹83,44,90,00,000), is shifting its casting direction away from the previously rumoured younger candidates.
According to reports in The Hollywood Reporter, Rose-Marsh was invited to audition by reading dialogue from the 1995 Pierce Brosnan film GoldenEye. However, producers reportedly instructed him not to mimic Brosnan or any previous Bond actor, emphasising a fresh interpretation of the role.
The move signals that the creative team may be looking for a unique spin on the legendary spy, rather than recycling familiar mannerisms. This could prove decisive in differentiating Bond 26 from past instalments and establishing a new identity for the character.
At 37, Rose-Marsh is close to the same age Daniel Craig was when he debuted as 007Instagram/scottrosemarsh
Who else is in the running to be the next James Bond?
For months, Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been considered the frontrunner, with bookmakers and fans tipping the Kick-Ass star as Craig’s successor. Other names frequently mentioned include Masters of the Air actor Callum Turner, The Gentlemen star Theo James, and Bridgerton favourite Regé-Jean Page.
However, if Rose-Marsh’s reported screen test proves accurate, it highlights just how unpredictable the casting process can be. The actor would also be the first redheaded Bond in history, echoing the debate that erupted in 2005 when Craig’s blond hair sparked headlines before his first outing in Casino Royale.
Jeff Bezos\u2019 post on next James Bond shakes the internet after Amazon\u2019s takeover of franchise Instagram/007
When will Bond 26 be released?
No official release date has been confirmed for Bond 26, but the film is not expected until 2028. What is known is that acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve, fresh off the Dune trilogy, has been signed to direct. The script is currently being written by Steven Knight, who has been tasked with creating a story that balances the franchise’s legacy with a modern edge.
The project is being overseen by long-time Bond producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, alongside new collaborators Amy Pascal and David Heyman. With Amazon MGM Studios now holding creative control, expectations are high for how this next chapter of 007 will be shaped.
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Preview build highlights strong combat and traversal
Long-delayed sequel set for release on 21 October across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S
Developed by The Chinese Room, published by Paradox and White Wolf
Preview build highlights strong combat and traversal, but limited role-playing depth
Concerns remain over empty-feeling environments and linear gameplay
A sequel years in the making
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 has endured a troubled development since its initial announcement in 2019. Originally due in 2020, the game faced delays and even suspension before being handed to UK studio The Chinese Room, best known for Still Wakes the Deep. It is now set for release on 21 October on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Having played several hours of a preview build, early impressions are mixed. While the game captures the power fantasy of being an elder vampire, it offers a narrower role-playing experience than many expected.
Immediate power and fluid combat
Players begin not as a fledgling but as “Phyre”, an elder vampire who has awoken after a century. From the outset, Phyre possesses advanced abilities such as scaling buildings, moving with supernatural speed, telekinetically hurling objects, and punching enemies across rooms.
The action has a sharp, tactile feel, enhanced by clan-specific powers. In the Brujah clan preview, abilities such as Lightning Punch and charge attacks added to the fast-paced combat. However, two clans will only be available via paid content.
This emphasis on action means levels are more linear, but traversal and combat arenas have been carefully designed, showcasing the studio’s flair for atmospheric environments.
Atmosphere and limitations
The game is set in a wintry Seattle, with detailed interiors and moody lighting. Environments such as derelict buildings and a hotel party scene highlight The Chinese Room’s strengths in environmental storytelling.
Yet interactivity is limited. Many doors and NPCs are non-functional, with only quest-linked characters available to engage. Even populated spaces, such as the hotel lobby or city streets, often feel empty. Dialogue with key characters is functional but restrained, with only a few standing out, such as the darkly humorous Nosferatu character Tolly.
Narrative potential
The main character shares their mind with an embedded noir-style private investigator, offering narration, commentary, and occasional gameplay shifts. In one preview sequence, this allowed for more nuanced, dialogue-driven play, hinting at the kind of role-playing depth long-time fans may be hoping for.
- YouTube YouTube/ The Chinese Room
Still a work in progress
As a preview build, what was shown may not reflect the final product. Developers suggest that Seattle will feel more populated and interactive later in the game. However, given that preview builds are often curated to highlight strengths, questions remain about how much role-playing flexibility the final release will deliver.
Release outlook
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 is due for release on 21 October. Early impressions suggest a game leaning more towards action and stealth than traditional role-playing, leaving the extent of its depth and replayability still uncertain.