Pooja Pillai is an entertainment journalist with Asian Media Group, where she covers cinema, pop culture, internet trends, and the politics of representation. Her work spans interviews, cultural features, and social commentary across digital platforms.
She began her reporting career as a news anchor, scripting and presenting stories for a regional newsroom. With a background in journalism and media studies, she has since built a body of work exploring how entertainment intersects with social and cultural shifts, particularly through a South Indian lens.
She brings both newsroom rigour and narrative curiosity to her work, and believes the best stories don’t just inform — they reveal what we didn’t know we needed to hear.
Let’s face it: the world has never been a safe space for women. It’s a place where we’re told to smile while being catcalled, to be polite while being undermined, and to shrink ourselves to fit into the tiny, suffocating box labelled “likeable.” In a world that often feels set against them with unsafe streets, glass ceilings, impossible beauty standards, and a relentless demand to be nice, women have had enough. They are done playing nice. The good girl act is out, and the villain era is in. And when they decided to break free? Oh honey, they did it with a bang.
This is the age of women flipping the script, ditching the nice girl manual, and embracing their inner bad guy. And why wouldn’t we? When the world is a dumpster fire of double standards, violence, and impossible expectations, sometimes the only way to survive is to become the villain they already think you are. And let’s be real: when women stop playing by the rules, it’s not a breakdown. It’s a breakthrough.
Pop culture has given us some iconic female villains and anti-heroines who embody this unapologetic energy, and honestly, it’s about time we take notes. So, grab your metaphorical black capes and join us as we celebrate the rise of the female villain. Because sometimes, being the bad guy is the best thing a woman can be.
1. Cersei Lannister: The queen who played the game
Cersei didn’t just play the game of thrones, she owned it. Sure, she blew up a sept, orchestrated a few murders, and maybe had a thing for her brother, but can you blame her? In a world where women were either wives or pawns, Cersei said, I’ll take the crown, thanks. She was ruthless, unapologetic, and refused to let anyone, man or woman, stand in her way. Cersei reminds us that sometimes, to win in a man’s world, you must burn it all down. And while she may have lost in the end, no one can deny that she went down with a goblet of wine in her hand and a smirk on her face.
Ruthless, regal, and always two steps ahead—Cersei Lannister knew power like no other - Instagram/gameofthrones
2. Amy Dunne: The mastermind of mayhem
Oh, Amy. The original Cool Girl, the one who never complains, never asks for more, and just exists for male approval, who turned out to be anything but. Amy Dunne didn’t just break the mould, she shattered it into a million pieces and framed someone else for it. Her calculated revenge on Nick wasn’t just about love, but about power. Amy showed us that women don’t have to be victims. Sometimes, they can be the architects of their own justice, even if it involves a little, okay, a lot of, manipulation.
Cool Girl was a lie, but Amy Dunne’s revenge? That was real Youtube/GoneGirl
3. Miranda Priestly: The ice queen with a point
That’s all. Two words that struck fear into the hearts of everyone at Runway. Miranda Priestly wasn’t just a boss, she was the boss. Demanding? Sure. Intimidating? Absolutely. But let’s not forget that she was also a woman at the top of a cutthroat industry, constantly having to prove she belonged there. Miranda didn’t have time to coddle egos or sugarcoat feedback. She was unapologetically herself, and if that made her a villain, so be it. Because let’s be real, women aren’t expected to be that way, and that’s exactly why she owned every room she walked into.
Not bossy, just the boss. Miranda Priestly owned every room she walked into Instagram/Devilwearspradafans
4. Harley Quinn: Chaos, but make it cute
Once a lovesick sidekick, now a full-blown anti-heroine, Harley Quinn embodies the villain era like no other. She walked away from the Joker, literally and figuratively, and started calling the shots for herself. With her unhinged energy, neon chaos, and complete disregard for playing by the rules, Harley reminds us that sometimes, the best thing a woman can do is walk away from what’s destroying her and also set fire to it on the way out.
She traded the Joker for chaos, freedom, and a baseball bat—Harley Quinn’s era is unstoppable /Getty Images
5. Regina George: The unapologetic queen bee
Sure, she was mean, but was she wrong? Regina George knew her power, and she wielded it effortlessly. She controlled the school with one raised eyebrow and destroyed reputations with a single burn book entry. But here’s the thing, she never pretended to be anything other than what she was. And in a world that demands women be likable all the time, that’s powerful.
Mean? Maybe. Iconic? Absolutely. Regina George knew exactly what she was doing Instagram/meangirls
Why the villain era is probably the best era
These characters aren’t just fictional icons, they’re reflections of a cultural shift. Let’s be honest, women are done apologising for their ambition, their anger, and their desires. We’re done being told to shrink, to soften, to settle.
This isn’t about being evil for the sake of it. It’s about rejecting the idea that women have to be nice to be worthy. It’s about prioritising ourselves, our dreams, and our survival in a world that still doesn’t make it easy.
Long live the villains
So, here’s to the women who refuse to play nice. To the ones who’ve been called too much and decided to own it. To the ones who’ve been labelled villains simply because they dared to take up space.
Because that narrative is over. The villain era isn’t about destruction, it’s about self-preservation. It’s about taking up space, demanding respect, and refusing to play by rules designed to keep you small.
This Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the rise of the female villain. Let’s raise a glass to the Cerseis, the Amys, and the Mirandas, and to every woman who’s ever been told she’s too much and replied, You’re damn right.
Because sometimes, the best thing a woman can be is a little bit bad. And honestly? It’s kind of iconic.
Welcome to the villain era, ladies. We’ve been waiting for you.
Emma Heming Willis says Bruce Willis’ frontotemporal dementia symptoms first appeared like a “whisper.”
The actor remains physically strong but struggles with language and communication.
Heming Willis has written a new book, The Unexpected Journey, on caregiving.
She is now advocating for more support for families living with dementia.
Emma Heming Willis has shared a moving update on husband Bruce Willis’ health, describing how his frontotemporal dementia (FTD) first appeared as a “whisper” through subtle changes in his behaviour. Speaking in a new ABC News special, Emma & Bruce Willis: The Unexpected Journey, she revealed that while the Die Hard star remains physically healthy, it is his mind that is deteriorating. Heming Willis also discussed her new book on caregiving and her mission to support other families navigating dementia.
Emma Heming Willis shares emotional insight into Bruce Willis’ battle with frontotemporal dementia Getty Images
What happened to Bruce Willis’ health?
Bruce Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2023, a rare brain condition that impacts behaviour, personality, and communication. Unlike Alzheimer’s, which often begins with memory loss, FTD frequently shows up through changes in how a person behaves or expresses themselves.
For Willis, best known for his action hero roles in Die Hard and Armageddon, the primary symptom has been the loss of language. “The language is going, and we’ve learned to adapt,” Heming Willis said, explaining that the family now communicates with him in different ways.
She described the condition as “his brain failing him,” even as his physical strength and mobility remain intact.
Bruce Willis continues to show strength despite dementia affecting his language and communicationGetty Images
What were Bruce Willis’ first dementia symptoms?
Heming Willis explained that the earliest signs of FTD were difficult to spot and easy to dismiss. The actor, who was once warm and affectionate, began to withdraw emotionally and drift away from family activities he had always enjoyed.
“It felt a little removed, very cold, not like Bruce,” she recalled. “To go the complete opposite of that was alarming and scary.” These early changes, which she called a “whisper,” later developed into clearer symptoms of dementia.
Doctors confirmed the diagnosis of FTD in 2023, but Heming Willis said she was handed only a pamphlet and told there was no available treatment. She described the experience as feeling like she was “free falling.”
Emma Heming Willis and Bruce Willis arrive for the annual "Room To Grow" Spring benefit in 2017Getty Images
How is Bruce Willis’ family coping?
The Willis family has adjusted their lives around his illness. Emma admitted that, in the beginning, she tried to manage caregiving alone, staying awake at night to ensure his safety and withdrawing from social gatherings to make his life more comfortable.
Over time, she realised the importance of building support and sharing the responsibility. Today, the couple’s daughters, Mabel, 13, and Evelyn, 11, continue to see glimpses of their father’s old self. “Not days, but we get moments,” she told Diane Sawyer. “It’s his laugh, his smirk, that twinkle in his eye. As quickly as those moments appear, they go. But I’m grateful he’s still here.”
His older daughters with Demi Moore, Rumer, 37, Scout, 34, and Tallulah, 31, also remain close and united around him. Rumer recently said the family is “doing great” and cherishing their togetherness.
Bruce Willis’ dementia started as a whisper, Emma Heming reveals in emotional family confessionGetty Images
Why is Emma Heming Willis speaking out?
The diagnosis pushed Heming Willis, a model and entrepreneur who had preferred to avoid the spotlight, into advocacy. She is using her platform to raise awareness about dementia and call for greater support for caregivers, who are often overlooked in healthcare conversations.
Her new book, The Unexpected Journey: Finding Strength, Hope, and Yourself on the Caregiving Path, will be released on 9 September. It documents her experience and aims to serve as a guide for others navigating similar challenges. “Born from grief, shaped by love, and guided by purpose, this is the book I needed back when Bruce was first diagnosed,” she said.
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Sophie Turner opens up about Sansa Stark’s controversial wedding night scene in Game of Thrones
Sophie Turner reflects on Game of Thrones’ most controversial rape scene
The actress admits modern TV would include trigger warnings
Turner says the show highlighted patriarchy and women’s struggles
She reunites with Kit Harington in upcoming gothic horror film
Sophie Turner has defended the controversial Game of Thrones rape scene involving her character Sansa Stark, saying the sequence, while triggering, played an important role in highlighting patriarchy and women’s struggles. Speaking in a new interview, the British actress admitted that if the series aired today, it would include trigger warnings, but she believes the depiction sparked conversations about sexual violence that remain crucial.
Sophie Turner opens up about Sansa Stark’s controversial wedding night scene in Game of Thrones Getty Images
What did Sophie Turner say about the Game of Thrones rape scene?
Turner, who joined Game of Thrones at the age of 14 and played Sansa until the series ended in 2019, addressed the criticism surrounding her season five wedding night rape scene. The moment, which was not in George RR Martin’s source material, drew widespread outrage in 2015.
“I did feel and still do that Game of Thrones shone a light on things that many people were like, ‘Oh god, you can’t show that kind of thing,’” she said. “I understand it can be triggering, but I did feel we were actually doing a lot of justice to women, and the fight women have had to fight for hundreds of thousands of years. The patriarchy, being treated as objects, and being constantly sexually assaulted.”
She added that almost every woman she knows has experienced some form of harassment, but men around her are often shocked because “we don’t talk about it enough.”
Sophie Turner says the HBO series did justice to women by exposing patriarchy through its darkest storylinesGetty Images
Would Game of Thrones include trigger warnings today?
The actress acknowledged that standards in television have shifted since the series first aired in 2011. “I think if Game of Thrones came out today, we’d definitely put some trigger warnings on there,” she admitted.
Despite the criticism, Turner said she felt proud to be part of a series that didn’t shy away from showing “atrocities that happened to women back then.” For her, the scene was not gratuitous, but a reflection of the harsh realities women faced and still face under patriarchal systems.
Turner admits the controversial episode would come with trigger warnings if it aired todayInstagram/sansastarkwinterfell
How did fans and critics respond at the time?
When the episode first aired, it sparked a heated backlash. Some critics argued that the storyline stripped Sansa of her agency, while others felt it continued the show’s pattern of overusing sexual violence as a plot device.
A writer for The Atlantic criticised the series for “ramping up sexual violence” compared to the books, while Vanity Fair said the scene “undercut all the agency that had been growing in Sansa.” On the other hand, The Guardian defended the choice, calling it a gothic tale of “innocence sacrificed” that was carefully handled.
Even actor Iwan Rheon, who played Ramsay Bolton, described filming the sequence as the “worst day of my career,” telling Metro in 2020 that it was “horrible” for everyone on set.
Turner, now 29, is set to reunite with her Game of Thrones co-star Kit Harington in the upcoming gothic horror The Dreadful, directed by Natasha Kermani. Unlike their brother-sister dynamic on the HBO show, the pair will play lovers in the film. “Sorry guys, it’s really weird for all of us,” Turner joked in a previous interview.
The actress has also spoken about how her time on Game of Thrones shaped her life and career. She auditioned at 12 and wrapped the show at 23, describing the experience as an “education in business decisions, etiquette on set, and how to act.”
While she is not involved in HBO’s prequel House of the Dragon, Turner has said she would only consider returning to Westeros if the “exact same cast and crew” were on board, effectively making it Game of Thrones season nine.
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Balakrishna honoured by World Book of Records UK alongside his Padma Bhushan milestone
Nandamuri Balakrishna becomes first Telugu actor recognised by World Book of Records UK.
Actor’s daughter Brahmani Nara and political leaders, including CM Chandrababu Naidu, celebrated the milestone.
Balakrishna has acted in over 100 films since his 1974 debut Tatamma Kala.
Earlier this year, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan for his contribution to cinema.
Veteran Telugu actor Nandamuri Balakrishna has been honoured by the World Book of Records UK for completing 50 years in cinema, marking a historic first for the Telugu film industry. Fondly called “Balayya” by his fans, the actor’s recognition for this five-decade journey comes alongside his Padma Bhushan win, cementing his legacy as one of Indian cinema’s most enduring stars.
Balakrishna honoured by World Book of Records UK alongside his Padma Bhushan milestone Instagram/balayyababu_official
What is Nandamuri Balakrishna’s World Book of Records recognition?
The World Book of Records UK awarded Balakrishna its Gold Edition certificate for his contribution to Indian cinema. He became the first Telugu actor to receive this global honour, celebrating his milestone of half a century as a leading hero. CEO of the organisation, Santosh Shukla, described Balakrishna as “an inspiration to millions,” calling his journey “a golden benchmark in Indian and global cinema.”
How did fans and family react to Balakrishna’s honour?
The announcement sparked celebrations across social media, with the actor’s daughter, Brahmani Nara, posting a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. She wrote:
“50 years as a leading hero, a feat now in the World Book of Records! You are a true force of nature, an icon on screen, and a compassionate leader off it. So proud of this global recognition for your incredible journey. Our pride, our hero!”
Fans flooded platforms with the hashtag #50YearsOfNBK, sharing clips from his most iconic roles spanning action, family dramas, and historical epics.
What did Chandrababu Naidu say about Balakrishna’s milestone?
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who is also Balakrishna’s brother-in-law, described the actor’s journey as “a golden chapter in Indian film history.” In a post on X, Naidu wrote:
“#50YearsOfNBK Admired by people across generations and celebrated for his dedication and passion for cinema, Shri Nandamuri Balakrishna Garu’s journey as a lead hero for 50 years stands as a golden chapter in Indian film history. The recognition by the World Book of Records UK is a testament to his extraordinary journey.”
— (@)
Which films define Balakrishna’s 50-year career?
Balakrishna made his debut in 1974 with Tatamma Kala as a child artist before becoming a household name with hits like Annadammula Anubandham (1975), Sahasame Jeevitham (1984), Kathanayakudu (1984), and Nippulanti Manishi (1974). Over the years, he has acted in more than 100 films, including blockbusters such as Daaku Maharaaj and Veera Simha Reddy. Known for his larger-than-life screen presence, Balakrishna’s films have often combined action with strong emotional narratives.
Fans celebrate #50YearsOfNBK as Balakrishna creates Telugu cinema historyInstagram/balakrishna_nandamuri_
What’s next for Nandamuri Balakrishna?
Even after five decades, Balakrishna shows no signs of slowing down. He is currently working on Akhanda 2: Thaandavam, the sequel to his 2021 hit Akhanda, directed by Boyapati Srinu. He has also signed another untitled project with director Gopichand Malineni.
His continued success in both cinema and politics, as a member of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, has made him one of the most influential figures in South India.
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Lamine Yamal poses with Nicki Nicole in a heart-filled setting shared on Instagram
Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal confirms romance with Argentine singer Nicki Nicole
The couple shared a romantic photo on Instagram with heart-themed décor
Yamal’s love life had drawn controversy after nightclub rumours and a birthday party scandal
Fans now turn focus to his football career as new season begins
Barcelona star Lamine Yamal has confirmed his relationship with Argentine singer Nicki Nicole, settling weeks of speculation around his personal life. The 17-year-old, who made headlines this summer for his off-pitch controversies, posted a romantic picture with the Latin music star, using a heart emoji to signal the nature of their bond. The move shifts attention from gossip about his dating life to a more settled chapter as Barcelona’s season gets underway.
Lamine Yamal poses with Nicki Nicole in a heart-filled setting shared on Instagram X/@MrGafan
Who is Lamine Yamal’s girlfriend Nicki Nicole?
Nicki Nicole is a well-known Argentine singer from Rosario who broke through in Spain with singles such as Wapo Traketero, Mamichula and Mala Vida. She is a regular name in the Latin urban music scene and has built a strong following internationally. Previously, she was in relationships with fellow artists Peso Pluma and Trueno.
Her connection with Yamal had been rumoured for months after she was spotted at his 18th birthday party and later seen wearing a Barcelona shirt with his name on it. Spanish journalist Javi de Hoyos had earlier claimed the two were seen kissing in a nightclub, though no evidence was provided at the time. Yamal’s Instagram post now confirms the relationship to his 37.6 million followers.
Nicki Nicole is an Argentine singer from Rosario Instagram/nicki.nicole
What happened at Lamine Yamal’s birthday party?
Yamal’s 18th birthday in July became a subject of controversy after claims that the private event allegedly involved paid models selected by physical traits and the hiring of dwarves as entertainment. The themed party, reportedly inspired by Mafia aesthetics, hosted around 200 people, including family, friends and teammates.
While no official response was given to these allegations, photos circulated online prompted criticism from Spanish outlets. The latest announcement of his relationship appears to move the spotlight away from those reports, marking a more stable turn in his personal narrative.
— (@)
How did Yamal confirm his relationship?
The footballer shared a photograph of himself and Nicki Nicole sitting closely in front of a decorated cake surrounded by flowers and balloons in red, pink and white. The post carried no caption apart from a heart emoji, but the setting and the intimacy of the picture left little doubt about the nature of their relationship.
This came just after Nicole’s 25th birthday, suggesting Yamal’s post was timed as a public gesture. The singer had also been seen in attendance during Barcelona’s Joan Gamper Trophy match against Como, sitting with his family while wearing his shirt.
— (@)
Why does this matter for Yamal’s career?
Lamine Yamal has been under intense scrutiny as one of Barcelona’s brightest prospects, already hailed as a future Ballon d’Or contender. His summer off-field controversies had risked overshadowing his rise on the pitch. By openly confirming his relationship with Nicki Nicole, he appears to be closing a chapter of speculation and redirecting attention to his football career.
With Barcelona relying on him as a key attacking option this season, fans and analysts will watch closely to see how he balances his sporting responsibilities with the added spotlight on his personal life.
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Priyanka Chopra congratulates cousin Parineeti Chopra on her pregnancy
Parineeti Chopra announced her first pregnancy with husband Raghav Chadha
Priyanka Chopra congratulated her cousin publicly, silencing feud rumours
Speculations about a rift began after Priyanka missed Parineeti’s wedding
Family posts suggest the Chopra sisters have put past rumours to rest
Parineeti Chopra’s pregnancy announcement has not only delighted fans but also ended speculation of a rift with cousin Priyanka Chopra. The actress revealed the news with a heartfelt post on Instagram, and Priyanka was among the first to respond, sending love and congratulations. The exchange came after months of rumours suggesting tensions between the Chopra sisters, fuelled by Priyanka missing Parineeti’s wedding in 2023.
Priyanka Chopra congratulates cousin Parineeti Chopra on her pregnancy Instagram/parineetichopra
What did Priyanka Chopra say on Parineeti Chopra’s pregnancy?
Shortly after Parineeti shared the news that she is expecting her first child with politician husband Raghav Chadha, Priyanka Chopra dropped a warm congratulatory message in the comments. She wrote “Congratulations” followed by a red heart emoji. Priyanka also re-shared Parineeti’s post on her Instagram story, which Parineeti acknowledged with love and protection emojis. While neither directly addressed the feud rumours, their public interaction was taken as a silent confirmation that things are well between the two sisters.
Family and friends send love after Parineeti Chopra reveals she is expecting Instagram Screengrab/parineetichopra
Why was there speculation of a feud between the Chopra sisters?
Talk of a fallout began in 2023 when Priyanka missed Parineeti’s wedding celebrations in Udaipur, despite having attended her engagement earlier that year. Priyanka’s mother Madhu Chopra clarified at the time that work commitments kept her daughter away, but fans noticed reduced social media interactions and fewer public appearances together.
Tensions were speculated again during Priyanka’s brother Siddharth Chopra’s wedding festivities, where Parineeti was absent from several pre-wedding events. Later, Parineeti posted a cryptic note about valuing people who “choose you back,” fuelling further whispers of a cold war.
How did fans react to Parineeti Chopra’s pregnancy news?
Parineeti’s announcement was met with a flood of congratulatory messages from colleagues, friends, and fans. Many applauded the couple’s sweet reveal and expressed joy at seeing the family united again. The posts from Priyanka and Parineeti, shared with mutual warmth, reassured fans that the Chopra cousins continue to share a strong bond despite past speculation.