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    Meghan and Harry urged to pause business ventures

    Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have been advised to step back from their growing list of business ventures and focus on building a single successful project after the theatrical debut of their documentary, “Cookie Queens.” The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have continued to explore opportunities across entertainment, media and business since stepping away from their senior royal roles. However, a royal commentator believes the couple should now reduce their public announcements and concentrate on creating work that can establish long-term credibility. Royal expert Kinsey Schofield, host of the YouTube program “Kinsey Schofield Unfiltered,” said Meghan and Harry have significant name recognition but have struggled to turn their global fame into sustained consumer interest and revenue. According to Schofield, the couple would benefit from taking a quieter professional approach instead of constantly introducing new projects or pursuing another public rebrand. She suggested that they temporarily “disappear professionally” and significantly reduce the number of announcements they make. The expert recommended that Meghan and Harry select one strong project and surround themselves with experienced professionals who understand how to successfully execute it. In her view, producing a genuinely successful project could do more for their public image than another publicity campaign. Schofield argued that reputation recovery does not necessarily require another rebranding exercise. Instead, she believes the couple should allow their work to speak for itself. She emphasized that success can be one of the most effective ways to improve a celebrity’s reputation, particularly in Hollywood. If Meghan and Harry were able to produce something widely praised and commercially successful, the public conversation surrounding them could potentially change. The royal commentator also warned against trying to establish themselves as authorities across too many industries at the same time. She suggested that attempting to build a presence in multiple categories could ultimately prevent them from becoming strongly associated with any particular field. Her advice was for the couple to choose one area, develop genuine expertise and allow their achievements to gradually rebuild their credibility. Schofield further suggested that Meghan and Harry should stop relying primarily on their celebrity status as the selling point of their ventures. Instead, they should focus on creating products and projects that are strong enough to succeed independently of their royal connections and personal fame. The comments come after reports surrounding “Cookie Queens,” which marked a major theatrical feature debut for Meghan and Harry as executive producers. The documentary reportedly earned around $354,000 from 446 theaters. While the figure represents a theatrical release, the reported performance has renewed discussion about the couple’s business strategy and their ability to convert their considerable public profile into commercially successful projects. With Meghan and Harry continuing to develop their careers outside the royal institution, the latest advice suggests that a period of fewer announcements and greater focus could help them build a more sustainable presence in the entertainment industry.

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    Messi misses penalty as Nashville crush Inter Miami 4-1

    Lionel Messi endured a frustrating night as Inter Miami suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat against Nashville SC in a top-of-the-table Major League Soccer clash on Saturday. The Argentina and Inter Miami captain missed a first-half penalty, received a yellow card and saw his team’s seven-match unbeaten MLS run come to an end. Despite the disappointment, Messi still produced a moment of quality by assisting Inter Miami’s only goal. Nashville made the perfect start when Honduran defender Andy Najar rose to head the hosts into a 1-0 lead in the 17th minute. Miami were handed an opportunity to respond six minutes later when Messi stepped up from the penalty spot. However, his effort lacked power and Nashville goalkeeper Brian Schwake made a comfortable save. Messi’s struggles from penalties have become an unusual feature of his otherwise remarkable career. The latest miss added further frustration for the superstar forward, who has also failed to convert from the spot on major international occasions. Inter Miami eventually found an equaliser in first-half stoppage time. Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia fired a right-footed effort into the net after receiving an assist from Messi. The momentum, however, quickly shifted back to Nashville after the break. Hany Mukhtar restored the home side’s advantage in the 49th minute before England striker Sam Surridge extended the lead. Mukhtar then struck again in the 63rd minute to complete a memorable individual performance and put Nashville firmly in control at 4-1. Messi was booked in the 59th minute, adding to an increasingly difficult evening for the veteran forward. In stoppage time, he came agonisingly close to finding the net when his effort struck both posts. The victory strengthened Nashville’s position at the top of the MLS standings with 43 points from 19 matches. Inter Miami remained second on 38 points. The defeat also ended Miami’s impressive away record and seven-game unbeaten league streak, while Nashville maintained its unbeaten home record in MLS. The result adds another chapter to the growing rivalry between the two sides, with Nashville having also eliminated Inter Miami from the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup earlier this year.

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    KATSEYE’s ‘Hootie Frutti’ sparks mixed reaction from fans

    KATSEYE’s latest song, “Hootie Frutti,” has sparked a divided reaction among fans following its release as part of the group’s new WILD EP. The track arrived on August 14 alongside the six-song extended play, released through HYBE UMG and Geffen Records. While some fans have welcomed the song’s upbeat and playful sound, others have expressed disappointment with its repetitive lyrics, musical style and the overall concept presented in its music video. A section of the group’s fanbase has also raised concerns about the visuals and choreography, particularly because KATSEYE has a significant younger audience. Some viewers argued that certain elements of the video appeared too suggestive and were not appropriate for younger fans who may be watching the group’s content. The criticism quickly spread across social media, with several listeners openly sharing their disappointment. One fan questioned whether the group’s younger audience had been properly considered when the music video was created, while another criticised the song’s writing and suggested that the members themselves should have questioned the quality of the track. Another commenter admitted that they had not expected to dislike a KATSEYE release but described “Hootie Frutti” as a particularly weak song. The mixed response has created a noticeable debate among fans, with some defending the group’s playful approach while others remain unimpressed by the track. Despite the criticism, “Hootie Frutti” forms part of a wider musical era for KATSEYE with the release of the WILD EP. The project features “Pinky Up,” “Animal,” “Hootie Frutti,” “Bel Air,” “That Way” and “Unloveu.” The latter is available exclusively on the physical edition of the EP. KATSEYE began introducing the project earlier this year with “Pinky Up,” which was released on April 9. The group later followed it with “Animal” on July 24 before unveiling “Hootie Frutti” alongside the complete EP in August. The release also comes as KATSEYE prepares for a major international touring schedule. The group’s Wildworld Tour is set to begin in Dublin on September 1 before travelling through several cities. The tour is scheduled to wrap up in Mexico City on November 27. As the group moves into its next phase, the reaction to “Hootie Frutti” highlights the different expectations surrounding KATSEYE’s music and image. While the song has found support among listeners who enjoy its energetic style, the criticism surrounding its lyrics, visuals and choreography shows that not every fan is convinced by the direction. With the Wildworld Tour approaching, KATSEYE will have an opportunity to present the WILD EP to audiences on stage and potentially give songs such as “Hootie Frutti” a different reception through live performances.

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    Hasan Mahmud joins Wasim Akram in elite Australian Test list

    Bangladesh fast bowler Hasan Mahmud has entered an elite group featuring Pakistan legend Wasim Akram after producing a match-winning performance in his maiden Test appearance in Australia. The 26-year-old claimed nine wickets as Bangladesh stunned Australia by nine wickets at Marrara Stadium on Sunday, helping the Tigers secure a historic Test victory on Australian soil. Hasan was particularly destructive in Australia’s first innings, ripping through the hosts’ batting order with a six-wicket haul. His spell helped Bangladesh dismiss Australia for just 198 on the opening day. The right-arm pacer continued his impressive work in the second innings, taking another three wickets and finishing the match with nine wickets overall. His performance earned him the third-best Test match figures by a visiting bowler in a maiden Test in Australia, placing his name alongside some of the game’s greatest fast bowlers. Bangladesh’s historic victory was built around outstanding contributions from Hasan and all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Mehidy scored a crucial half-century in the first innings before producing a five-wicket haul in the second. Together, the pair dismantled Australia’s batting resistance and played central roles in one of Bangladesh cricket’s most memorable victories. For Hasan, the achievement marks a remarkable arrival on the Test stage in Australia and puts him in distinguished company with legendary pacers, including Wasim Akram. The result not only gave Bangladesh a historic win but also announced Hasan Mahmud as a fast bowler capable of making a major impact on the biggest stages. Best Figures by a visiting bowler in their first Test in Australia Pakistan – Wasim Akram, 11-160 in 1990 England – Maurica Tate, 11-128 in 1924 Bangladesh – Hasan Mahmud, 9-111 in 2026

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    Kevin Feige reveals story behind Spider-Man’s iconic handshake

    Kevin Feige has revealed the surprising story behind one of the most memorable friendship moments in the recent Spider-Man movies: the elaborate handshake shared by Peter Parker and his best friend Ned Leeds. Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, recently appeared at the D23 event alongside actor Jacob Batalon, who portrays Ned in the Spider-Man franchise. During the discussion, the two revisited some of the memorable moments from the movies, including the now-famous handshake between Ned and Peter. According to Feige, the handshake was not originally part of the script or something specifically planned by Marvel. Instead, it was an idea developed by Batalon and Tom Holland while they were working together on Spider-Man: Homecoming. Feige recalled that during the production of the 2016 movie, Holland and Batalon were spending time away from the main set when they came up with the idea. The Marvel executive said he noticed the two young actors approaching director Jon Watts to pitch their idea for a special handshake that could be used between their characters. The actors reportedly wanted their characters to have a unique gesture that reflected the close friendship between Peter and Ned. Watts agreed to let them try the idea, and the handshake eventually became part of the movie. What started as a simple idea between two young actors went on to become one of the most recognizable friendship moments in the Spider-Man franchise. The gesture helped strengthen the bond between Peter and Ned on screen while also giving their friendship a playful and distinctive identity. Feige credited both Holland and Batalon for creating the moment and thanked Batalon for helping bring the idea to life. His comments highlighted how some of the most memorable moments in major superhero franchises can emerge naturally from the chemistry between actors rather than being carefully planned from the beginning. Batalon has played Ned alongside Holland’s Peter Parker throughout the recent Spider-Man films, becoming an important part of the character’s journey. Their friendship has provided several lighter moments within the superhero stories, with Ned often serving as Peter’s trusted friend and supporter. The revelation also offers fans a behind-the-scenes look at how Spider-Man: Homecoming developed some of its most memorable details. While the films feature elaborate action sequences and carefully constructed storylines, small creative decisions from the cast can sometimes become just as memorable. The Spider-Man franchise continues to remain one of Marvel’s most successful properties, with fans eagerly following updates about its next chapter. The upcoming projects are expected to further expand Peter Parker’s story and introduce audiences to new developments in his superhero journey. For fans who have followed Peter and Ned since their first appearance together, the story behind the handshake adds another layer to one of the franchise’s most beloved friendship moments. What began as a spontaneous idea between Holland and Batalon ultimately became an enduring part of the Spider-Man movies.

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    Robert Pattinson to end Batman journey after Matt Reeves trilogy

    Robert Pattinson appears set to hang up the Batman cape after completing the upcoming trilogy directed by Matt Reeves, bringing his journey as Gotham City’s iconic vigilante to an end. Pattinson first stepped into the role of Bruce Wayne in 2022 with The Batman, directed by Reeves. The film offered a darker and more grounded interpretation of the legendary DC character, focusing on a young Batman still finding his place as a crime fighter while confronting corruption across Gotham City. Following the success of the first installment, Pattinson is returning for The Batman Part II. The highly anticipated sequel is scheduled to arrive in 2028 and will continue the story of Bruce Wayne as he faces new challenges following the events of the first movie. A third film in Reeves’ planned trilogy has also been announced, setting the stage for the conclusion of Pattinson’s version of the character. According to recent reports, Pattinson has indicated that he intends to portray Batman one final time after completing Reeves’ trilogy. If the plan remains unchanged, the third installment would mark the actor’s last appearance as the Caped Crusader in this particular series. Pattinson’s debut Batman movie featured a star-studded cast, including Paul Dano as the Riddler and Colin Farrell as Oswald Cobblepot, better known as the Penguin. Jeffrey Wright portrayed Gotham police officer James Gordon, while Andy Serkis appeared as Alfred Pennyworth. The first film followed Batman as he investigated the murder of Gotham City’s mayor. His investigation gradually uncovered a larger conspiracy involving some of the city’s most influential figures. As Bruce dug deeper, he was forced to confront disturbing connections between Gotham’s criminal underworld, political corruption and his own family history. The movie ended with Batman defeating the Riddler’s plans and helping rescue Gotham’s citizens after the city was devastated by flooding. The Riddler was eventually taken to Arkham State Hospital, where he encountered another mysterious inmate. That brief scene fueled widespread speculation that the prisoner was the Joker, played by Barry Keoghan. Although the character’s appearance was limited, the moment opened the door for a possible larger role in future installments. The Joker is widely expected to become an important figure in the upcoming storyline, although many details surrounding his involvement remain under wraps. Pattinson’s Batman will also face the challenge of dealing with the consequences of the first film while continuing to protect Gotham. The Batman Part II is currently scheduled for release on February 18, 2028. Alongside Pattinson, the movie is expected to feature several returning cast members, while Scarlett Johansson and Sebastian Stan have also been linked to the project.

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    Sunny Deol reveals why he rejects pan masala advertisements

    Sunny Deol has opened up about his decision to turn down advertisements for pan masala and other products that do not align with his personal beliefs. The 68-year-old actor, who is currently promoting his upcoming film Batwara 1947, revealed that he has received several offers to endorse pan masala brands. However, despite the potentially lucrative nature of such deals, Deol has consistently refused to associate himself with these products. During a recent conversation on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast, the veteran actor explained that he follows a simple principle when deciding which brands to promote. According to Deol, he does not want to advertise a product that he personally does not believe is beneficial or appropriate for people. Deol made it clear that his decision is not influenced by the financial value of an endorsement. He said he has been approached for pan masala advertisements but has never considered accepting them because he does not support such products. “I don’t do pan masala ads and will never do them ever. I wouldn’t do any of those things. I get offers for such ads. I don’t want to do something which I don’t believe in,” the actor said. He further explained that he does not consider pan masala something worth promoting. For Deol, maintaining personal values and being comfortable with the products he endorses are more important than earning money through advertising. “I don’t believe in it. I don’t think this is a good thing to promote,” he added. The actor also indicated that this approach has been an important part of his professional life. Rather than accepting every commercial opportunity available to him, Deol prefers to make choices that are consistent with his conscience and personal principles. His comments have highlighted the growing discussion around celebrities endorsing products that may have health concerns associated with their consumption. While many actors and public figures have appeared in advertisements for such products, Deol has chosen to maintain a clear distance from them. On the professional front, Sunny Deol is currently associated with Batwara 1947, a historical drama centered on the Partition of India. The film features a notable ensemble cast, including Aamir Khan, Shabana Azmi, Ali Fazal and Preity Zinta. As Deol continues to promote the project, his remarks about brand endorsements have drawn attention to the importance he places on personal beliefs when making career decisions.

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    Rain, thunderstorms forecast across Pakistan till …

    The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast another spell of rain and thunderstorms in upper and central parts of the country from August 17 to 21. The weather system is expected to bring rain with strong winds and occasional heavy showers. The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority said monsoon currents were continuing to move into the upper parts of the country. The Met Office also expects a westerly wave to reach northern areas on August 17, which could further strengthen the weather activity. Punjab is likely to receive rain and thunderstorms at intervals from August 16 to 21. Rawalpindi, Murree, Galyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad are among the areas expected to be affected. Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal may also experience showers and thunderstorms during the forecast period. Southern and central districts of Punjab are expected to see rain mainly on August 20 and 21. These areas include Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan. Authorities have warned that intense rainfall could trigger urban flooding in low-lying parts of Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot and Lahore between August 17 and 20. There is also a risk of landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas, particularly Murree and Galyat. Tourists and travellers have been advised to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of severe weather. Farmers have been asked to adjust agricultural activities according to the forecast and protect livestock from adverse weather conditions. The PDMA has instructed district administrations to strengthen emergency arrangements and prepare risk-mitigation plans. Officials have been directed to maintain round-the-clock staffing and coordinate closely with relevant departments for a quick response. Authorities have also been told to provide timely information about safety precautions and possible evacuation plans through electronic and social media platforms. Drainage systems are to be inspected, desilted and cleared before heavy rainfall. Heavy machinery is also being positioned at vulnerable locations where blocked drainage or flooding could create emergencies. Motorway Police have been directed to issue regular traffic and road-condition updates and guide motorists during the rainy spell.

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    Iran claims victory on military, political fronts

    Iranian Parliament Speaker Bagher Ghalibaf has claimed that Iran has emerged victorious on both the military and political fronts of the ongoing conflict. Speaking about the situation, Ghalibaf said Iran was facing what he described as an unjust war imposed by the United States and Israel. He said the Iranian nation was confronting the conflict with courage and determination. According to Ghalibaf, Iran had successfully resisted pressure on both the military and political fronts. Ghalibaf said the Iranian people had remained united despite the challenges created by the conflict. He praised their resistance and said the nation had shown that it could withstand pressure from powerful opponents. His remarks came after the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces said that Iran would not retreat until the United States and Israel were completely defeated. The Iranian military leadership said resistance had become part of the mindset of Iran’s younger generation. It claimed that the legacy of resistance had been passed from one generation to another. According to the Iranian Armed Forces, the country’s new generation had remained firm in the face of what it described as the world’s most powerful military forces. The military leadership also said Iran would continue its struggle to protect what it called its legitimate rights. It said Tehran would not abandon its position until the opposing side surrendered. The Iranian Armed Forces further accused the United States of continuing its aggression to expand its influence and establish dominance in the region. Iranian officials have repeatedly presented the conflict as a struggle against foreign aggression. They have also stressed the importance of national unity and resistance in facing military and political pressure.

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    Palwasha accuses PML-N of Kashmir election rigging

    Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Senator Palwasha Khan has criticised the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) over the recent political developments in Kashmir. Khan said those who had won what she called a “fixed match” in Kashmir should not lecture others about the public mandate. In a statement, the PPP senator alleged that attempts were made to manipulate the electoral process in Kashmir. She claimed that re-polling was conducted repeatedly in some areas. According to Khan, these actions were part of an alleged attempt to influence the election results. She said the PPP had formally raised objections over the process. Khan said her party had submitted complaints to the relevant authorities. She added that the complaints were supported by evidence. The PPP senator also made allegations against PML-N candidates who won seats in Kashmir. She claimed that some successful candidates could not even visit their own constituencies. Khan said the political situation in Kashmir should be judged on the basis of facts on the ground. She rejected what she described as attempts to present the election results as a clear reflection of public opinion. She also turned her criticism towards the political situation in Punjab. Khan said Lahore should not be treated as a reflection of the entire province. “Lahore is not the whole of Punjab,” she said. The PPP leader urged political leaders to move beyond Lahore and assess the situation in other parts of Punjab. She said the realities outside the provincial capital were different. Khan also claimed that people in Punjab were living under fear because of the Criminal Case Department, or CCD. She said the situation had created concern among citizens. The senator criticised the alleged use of the CCD and said the PPP would oppose any move that could increase its role in Kashmir. “We will not allow Kashmir to be handed over to the CCD,” Khan said. Her statement comes amid political tensions over the election process in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Political parties have continued to exchange allegations over polling, re-polling and the credibility of election results. Khan’s remarks reflect the PPP’s wider criticism of the political situation and alleged electoral irregularities. The party has called for its complaints and evidence to be properly examined by the relevant authorities.