Priyanka Chopra to star in a new comedy with Zac Efron and Will Ferrell for Amazon MGM
The untitled film, directed by Forgetting Sarah Marshall creator Nicholas Stoller, adds Priyanka to a star-packed cast including Regina Hall and Michael Peña.
Priyanka Chopra and Zac Efron reunite for a new Hollywood comedy directed by Nicholas Stoller, nearly eight years after Baywatch
Pooja was born in Kochi and raised on a mix of newspapers, pop culture, and too many questions. She studied Communicative English and Journalism before earning her Master’s in Journalism from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, and began her career interning at The Times of India and Channel I'M — where she later became a news anchor, scripting and presenting her own stories. Between deadlines, she’s worked across digital media platforms, covering politics, gender, pop culture, cinema, and everything in between. She has interviewed actors, creators, and changemakers, and occasionally edits her own video content — thanks to being certified in Photoshop and InDesign. In 2025, she joined the Asian Media Group in her first “official” newsroom gig, where she now covers entertainment, lifestyle, and the layered realities of South Asian identity. She believes storytelling should feel personal — even when it’s public — and likes to write not to please, but to provoke, question, and occasionally stir the pot.
Priyanka Chopra is returning to the big screen in a new Hollywood comedy, where she will share the screen once again with Zac Efron, her Baywatch co-star from 2017. The film, backed by Amazon MGM Studios, is being directed and written by Nicholas Stoller, best known for comedies like Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him to the Greek.
Zac Efron was confirmed for the project earlier this year, but Priyanka’s involvement, officially announced now, adds another major name to the star-studded cast, with Will Ferrell, Michael Peña, Regina Hall, Jimmy Tatro, and Billy Eichner rounding out the ensemble. Ferrell is also co-producing the film through his banner Gloria Sanchez Productions, alongside Stoller’s Stoller Global Solutions.
With projects like Heads of State, The Bluff, and now this comedy, Priyanka continues her Hollywood streakGetty Images
The untitled film, previously referred to as Judgment Day, revolves around a young man recently released from prison, played by Efron, who storms an unscripted TV courtroom show, blaming the judge, played by Ferrell, for ruining his life. It is expected to mix absurdity with a lot of sharp humour. Priyanka’s role, however, remains undisclosed for now, adding further curiosity around the film.
This also marks Priyanka's second collaboration with Stoller’s team after Citadel, where she played a spy opposite Richard Madden. She’s been steadily expanding her Hollywood footprint with upcoming roles in Heads of State with Idris Elba and John Cena, and The Bluff, where she plays a 19th-century Caribbean pirate.
Zac Efron will play a recently released convict who hijacks a TV courtroom in the upcoming filmGetty Images
Back home, Priyanka recently wrapped a schedule of SS Rajamouli’s action-adventure film, tentatively titled SSMB 29, which stars Mahesh Babu. Though not officially confirmed, reports suggest she might be playing the antagonist.
As one of the few South Asian stars to successfully transition between Indian and international cinema, Priyanka has managed to pick projects that mix commercial appeal with strong industry collaborations. This latest comedy might just be another clever move; reuniting with a popular co-star, joining a crowd-pleasing genre, and keeping her momentum going on both sides of the globe.
Scarlett Johansson becomes the highest-grossing lead actor at the global box office
Her films have now grossed £10.7 billion worldwide
Johansson achieved the feat with fewer films than Jackson or Downey Jr
Latest success comes from Jurassic World: Rebirth, which earned $318 million in its first six days
Johansson overtakes Jackson and Downey Jr at the box office
Scarlett Johansson has officially become the highest-grossing lead actor in global box office history, following the successful release of Jurassic World: Rebirth. The milestone sees her surpass fellow Marvel actors Samuel L Jackson and Robert Downey Jr, cementing her status as one of the most bankable stars in the world.
According to box office tracker The Numbers, Johansson’s films have now earned £10.7 billion worldwide. Jackson and Downey Jr trail slightly behind, with £10.7 billion and £10.5 billion respectively.
Remarkably, Johansson has achieved this with a relatively lean filmography — just 36 films, compared to Jackson’s 71 and Downey Jr’s 45.
A consistent performer over two decades
Johansson's average gross per film stands at £298 million, placing her ahead of both Jackson ($205.7m / £151m) and Downey Jr ($318.1m / £233.5m). Her breakout role came in 2003’s Lost in Translation, and she has since built a diverse portfolio that includes critically acclaimed performances in Marriage Story, Jojo Rabbit, and multiple roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
She made her screen debut at the age of 10 in the 1994 comedy North, later appearing in Home Alone 3, The Horse Whisperer, and Ghost World during the 1990s.
Lead role in Jurassic World: Rebirth
In her latest film, Johansson stars as Zora Bennett, a mercenary hired by a pharmaceutical representative (played by Rupert Friend) to accompany palaeontologist Dr Henry Loomis (played by Jonathan Bailey) on a mission to retrieve dinosaur DNA. The plot builds on the legacy of the Jurassic Park franchise.
She takes over the lead from Chris Pratt, who led the previous three Jurassic World films as Owen Grady.
Within its first six days in cinemas, Jurassic World: Rebirth has earned £233 million globally, making it the second-highest performing release of 2025 so far, behind only the Chinese animated film Ne Zha 2.
A role years in the making
Johansson has previously spoken about her determination to join the franchise.
“I’ve been trying to get into this franchise in any possible way for over 10 years,” she told ComicBook.com.
“I’ll do anything for it — I’ll die in the first five minutes! I can’t believe it’s finally happened.”
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.
The limited-edition release is the first official product
Royal Mint unveils commemorative Iron Maiden coin for band's 50th anniversary
Features mascot Eddie with hidden references to songs, albums and tours
Designed by artist and lifelong fan Albert “Akirant” Quirantes
Coin available in editions starting at £18.50
Iron Maiden honoured with official UK coin
The Royal Mint has released a new collectable coin to commemorate 50 years since the formation of British heavy metal band Iron Maiden.
Designed by artist Albert “Akirant” Quirantes, the coin features the band’s long-time mascot Eddie, who has appeared on every Iron Maiden album cover since 1980. The artwork includes hidden references to the band’s extensive discography, stage imagery, and iconic world tours.
The limited-edition release is the first official product to feature the band’s 50th anniversary logo and follows Eddie’s appearance on a set of Royal Mail stamps in 2023.
“A perfect fusion of metal on metal”
Rod Smallwood, the band’s manager, said:
“Having Eddie on an official UK coin is a continuation of his incredible odyssey since we unearthed him back in 1980.”
Rebecca Morgan of the Royal Mint described the coin as a “perfect fusion of metal on metal” and said it is expected to become a highly sought-after collector’s item.
Design inspired by fan devotion
Quirantes, a lifelong Iron Maiden fan, said working on the coin was one of the most exciting projects of his career.
“I’ve hidden several references within the design that true fans will enjoy discovering,” he said, pointing to subtle nods to classic albums and songs.
The coin is available in various editions, with prices starting at £18.50.
Keep ReadingShow less
The 2025 event made headlines after it was announced that Canadian rapper Drake
Wireless Festival 2025 runs from 11–13 July in Finsbury Park, London
Drake to headline all three nights of the sold-out event
New acts include ODUMODUBLVCK, SahBabii, Darkoo and Uncle Waffles
Up to 150,000 attendees expected across the weekend
Final line-up revealed ahead of 20th anniversary festival
Further acts have been confirmed for the 2025 edition of Wireless Festival, as Finsbury Park prepares to host the three-day music event from Friday 11 July to Sunday 13 July. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the UK’s biggest urban music festival, which has evolved into a major platform for rap, R&B, afrobeats and grime.
The 2025 event made headlines after it was announced that Canadian rapper Drake would headline all three nights — a first for the festival — sparking record-breaking ticket sales. The festival sold out within minutes.
Who's performing this year?
The full line-up now includes a mix of global headliners and emerging talent. Previously announced artists include:
Burna Boy
PARTYNEXTDOOR
Summer Walker
Vybz Kartel
Boy Better Know
Popcaan
Leon Thomas
BigXThaPlug
Lancey Foux
Nemzzz
Spice
Masicka
Newly added names to the roster include Nigerian rapper ODUMODUBLVCK, Atlanta’s SahBabii, and UK-based artists Darkoo and Odeal. Saturday’s Old Spice Stage will be headlined by Fimiguerrero, while Uncle Waffles, a leading figure in the amapiano scene, will close the festival on Sunday.
Also joining the line-up are rising R&B artists SAILORR and Nippa, along with a wave of homegrown UK talent including Chy Cartier, kwn, Len, YT, and Skeete.
New experiences and installations
In addition to live performances, festival goers can engage with Pass the Aux, a music-sharing installation on site. The setup allows attendees to print Polaroid song recommendations, inspired by West African studio photography. The project is a collaboration between the V&A Museum and artist-in-residence Michael Akuagwu.
Festival background and impact
Wireless began in Hyde Park as a rock and pop festival, but since relocating to Finsbury Park in 2019, it has cemented its reputation as a leading celebration of hip-hop, afrobeats, and youth culture.
Despite ongoing opposition from local campaigners, Festival Republic signed a five-year deal with Haringey Council in 2023 to continue hosting Wireless at the site. The council has defended the partnership, noting that the event generates significant income for park maintenance.
Last weekend, the park hosted major rock gigs, and further electronic music events are scheduled in August featuring Honey Dijon, CamelPhat, and ANOTR.
Keep ReadingShow less
This film marks the first cinematic release under the new unified DC Universe banner
First reactions to Superman (2025) praise its action, humour and emotional tone
Directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet as Superman
Premiered in Los Angeles ahead of 11 July theatrical release
Fans and critics call it a strong launch for the new DC Studios era
Superman early reviews call it “exciting” and “hopeful”
Following its premiere in Los Angeles on Monday night, the first social media reactions to Superman have begun to emerge — and they are largely positive. Though full reviews will be published closer to the 11 July release date, critics, journalists and early viewers have shared their first impressions online.
— (@)
What fans and critics are saying
“A terrific start for the new DC Studios,” – Erik Davis, Fandango Film journalist Erik Davis praised Superman as a promising launchpad for DC Studios under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran.
“Loaded with exhilarating action set pieces and well-placed humour and levity,” – Perri Nemiroff, Collider Collider’s Perri Nemiroff highlighted the film’s balance of action and character-driven storytelling.
“Superman delivers on heart, humour and heroism. David Corenswet is perfectly cast,” – @TheNerdyCritic on X A fan reaction emphasised the emotional tone of the film, calling it a “Superman story we’ve been waiting for”.
“Hopeful, fun, and visually impressive — Superman is back!” – @FilmFanCentral Another viewer on social media described the reboot as a return to form for the character and the franchise.
— (@)
— (@)
— (@)
Meet the new Superman cast
Superman stars David Corenswet as Clark Kent / Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. The cast also includes:
Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen
Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl
Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner
Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho
Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific
Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard
James Gunn’s first film under new DC Studios
Directed by James Gunn, this film marks the first cinematic release under the new unified DC Universe banner, co-led by Gunn and Peter Safran since their appointment in October 2022.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Gunn said:
“People are looking for heroes right now... Superman is that.”
Safran added earlier this year that Superman is intended to bring clarity and cohesion to the DC brand, following years of fragmented storytelling by different creative teams.
— (@)
— (@)
What’s next for DC Studios?
Superman launches the new DC Universe (DCU), with upcoming projects including:
Lanterns, an HBO Max series focused on Green Lantern
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, set to release in 2026
— (@)
— (@)
Superman releases in cinemas worldwide on 11 July 2025.
Keep ReadingShow less
The brand’s use of a traditional Indian design without acknowledgement
Neena Gupta posts a video wearing Kolhapuri chappals gifted by late actor Laxmikant Berde
Joins Kareena Kapoor in highlighting resemblance to a Prada sandal design
Luxury brand showcased similar footwear at Milan Fashion Week without reference to Indian origins
Both actresses emphasised the value of original handmade designs
Neena Gupta backs Kolhapuri chappals after Prada controversy
Veteran Indian actress Neena Gupta has weighed in on the ongoing conversation around Prada’s recent footwear collection after actress Kareena Kapoor earlier pointed out the brand’s use of a traditional Indian design without acknowledgement.
In a video shared on Instagram, Gupta showcased a pair of handmade Kolhapuri chappals gifted to her by the late actor Laxmikant Berde. Sharing the story behind the slippers, she said, “So, these Kolhapur slippers are in great demand these days. Once I did something with Laxmikant Berde—I don't remember what it was—so I asked him, can you get me these slippers from Kolhapur? He said yes. So he got them for me. This is the most beautiful slippers I have ever had. Most beautiful and handmade. I love them. Thank you, Laxmikant. You are not there anymore, but love you.”
Gupta concluded her post with a caption that read, “Real toh real hota hai..”, praising the authenticity and craftsmanship of traditional Indian footwear.
Gupta’s post comes shortly after Kareena Kapoor’s Instagram story where she posted a photo of her Kolhapuri chappals with the caption, “Sorry not Prada…but my OG Kolhapuri.” The comment was interpreted as a subtle response to Prada’s new sandal design, which many users online noted bore a strong resemblance to the traditional Indian style.
Prada presented the footwear at its Men’s Spring/Summer 2026 show in Milan on 22 June. The design, referred to as ‘Toe Ring Sandals’, did not include any reference to its resemblance to the Indian Kolhapuri chappals, sparking debate over cultural appropriation and lack of credit to traditional artisans.
Current projects
Kareena Kapoor was last seen in Singham Again, alongside Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Tiger Shroff.
Neena Gupta recently appeared in Metro In Dino, which was released on 4 July.