Life & Style

Taylor Swift has reportedly had more of her music removed from TikTok videos posted by Donald Trump and the official White House account, adding another chapter to the ongoing tension between the pop superstar and the US president. The latest incident involved Swift’s 2021 song “Bet You Think About Me,” which was featured in a TikTok video showing Trump speaking to supporters. The video was posted on the official White House account and included a caption that appeared to reference Swift’s lyrics, saying, “We know you think about us.” However, within hours of the video being posted, viewers noticed that Swift’s song was no longer playing. The audio had been muted, while an onscreen message stated that the sound was unavailable. The removal quickly attracted attention from Swift’s fans, many of whom have closely followed the singer’s public and political disagreements with Trump. Reports have also indicated that Swift’s music was removed from other White House TikTok videos posted months earlier. One recent example featured Trump and First Lady Melania Trump watching fireworks. The video included text describing the mood as being excited because it was August and Trump was president. The clip originally featured Swift’s song “August,” a track from her critically acclaimed 2020 album “Folklore.” It also included a message from Trump’s team suggesting that Swift would be pleased that her music had been used, along with hashtags referencing the singer, the song and the MAGA movement. The situation changed several days later when the song was no longer available in the video. Instead, TikTok displayed a notice explaining that the copyright owner had not made the sound available in the country. Trump’s social media team later appeared to respond by using another Swift song, “Red,” in a separate TikTok post. The video featured a parody album cover showing Trump wearing a red MAGA hat, along with a fictional playlist titled “Red (Donald Trump’s Version).” The disputes over Swift’s music come amid a long-running public relationship between the singer and Trump that has often been marked by political differences. Trump has previously criticized Swift publicly, while the singer has openly expressed political views that have frequently placed her at odds with him and his supporters. Swift’s ownership of her music has also become an important part of the situation. She regained control of her original master recordings in May 2025 after a lengthy dispute over ownership. As a result, her control over her catalog has allowed her to take a stronger position regarding how her recordings are used. The repeated removal of Swift’s songs from Trump-related TikTok posts highlights the complicated relationship between copyright ownership, social media and political messaging. It also demonstrates how the use of popular music can quickly become controversial when it is connected to political figures or movements.

American Horror Story is preparing to return with a new season filled with familiar faces, terrifying personalities and plenty of nostalgia for longtime fans. FX has unveiled the first teaser for the highly anticipated 13th season, offering viewers an exciting glimpse at the characters and performers set to return to the popular horror anthology. Season 13 will bring together several fan-favorite characters from different chapters of the franchise. Jessica Lange is returning as Constance Langdon, while Sarah Paulson will reprise her role as Cordelia Goode. Emma Roberts is back as Madison Montgomery, and Angela Bassett will once again appear as Marie Laveau. Evan Peters is also returning as Kai Anderson, adding another memorable character to the star-studded lineup. Fans can also expect the return of some of the franchise’s most frightening figures. John Carroll Lynch will appear as Twisty the Clown, one of the series’ most recognizable villains. The mysterious Rubber Man is also set to make an appearance, promising more unsettling moments for viewers. The upcoming installment is expected to be particularly exciting because of the way the returning characters will interact. Series creator Ryan Murphy has revealed that some actors will take on two different roles from separate seasons, with certain characters even appearing together in the same scene. Murphy explained that the new season was inspired by the chapters that audiences have loved the most. Among the fan-favorite seasons he highlighted are Murder House, Asylum, Coven, Freak Show and Cult. The decision to bring characters from these stories together is expected to create a unique connection between different eras of the anthology. One of the most unusual elements involved Evan Peters, who reportedly had a scene in which he portrayed two different characters while interacting with himself. Murphy described the process as challenging but enjoyable, suggesting that viewers can expect some creative surprises when the new episodes arrive. The ensemble cast also includes Avantika, Jamie Brewer, Elle Chapman, Berto Colon, Alex Consani, Frances Conroy, Mat Fraser, Seth Gabel, Orlando Jones, Paul Anthony Kelly, Tig Notaro, Madelaine Petsch, Fedor Steer, Mena Suvari, Zach Villa and John Waters. American Horror Story first premiered in 2011 and has become one of television’s most recognizable horror anthology series. Each season traditionally introduces new characters, settings and stories while occasionally connecting to previous installments. Season 13 will consist of 13 episodes and is scheduled to premiere on September 24, 2026. The first episode will air at 9 p.m. ET and 6 p.m. PT on FX and Hulu. The premiere night will feature three episodes, while the second week will also bring three episodes. After that, two episodes will be released each Thursday until the series reaches its 13th and final episode on October 29. With beloved characters returning and multiple stories being brought together, the new season is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious installments in the American Horror Story franchise.

Megan Fox has once again made it clear that she has no intention of letting online criticism dictate how she presents herself. The actress recently responded to an Instagram user who made an age-shaming comment about her decision to share bold photographs at the age of 40. On Thursday, August 13, Fox took to Instagram to share a series of striking images from a recent photoshoot. In the pictures, the actress wore a leather bandeau-style top with matching chaps and string underwear. She completed the look with a bright green furry coat, dark sunglasses and a chunky necklace, creating a dramatic and confident appearance. While many of her followers praised the photos and admired her fashion choices, one social media user criticized Fox for posting revealing pictures at her age. The commenter suggested that Fox was “already old” and claimed that she should not be sharing such images now that she is 40. Rather than ignoring the remark, Fox responded directly and appeared completely unfazed by the criticism. The “Jennifer’s Body” star delivered a short but confident reply, telling the commenter, “Then don’t watch, sister.” Her response quickly drew attention online, with many fans supporting the actress for refusing to entertain age-based criticism. Fox’s reply also reflects her long-standing approach to conversations surrounding beauty, confidence and public expectations placed on women. Although Fox has been widely described as a sex symbol throughout her career, she has previously spoken openly about having a complicated relationship with her appearance. In a 2021 interview with British GQ, she discussed the insecurities that exist behind the image people often see on screen and social media. Fox explained that people can appear extremely confident and beautiful to others while privately struggling with their own self-image. She also revealed that she experiences body dysmorphia and has dealt with deep insecurities. Despite those challenges, the actress has continued to embrace her individuality and make her own choices about fashion and self-expression. Her latest Instagram post appears to be another example of Fox refusing to let other people’s opinions determine what she wears or how she presents herself. Beyond her career and public image, Fox is also focused on her personal life and motherhood. She is a mother of four children. She shares three sons, Noah, Bodhi and Journey, with her former husband Brian Austin Green. She also has a daughter, Saga Blade, with her former fiancé Machine Gun Kelly. As she navigates life as a mother and embraces a new chapter, Fox appears determined to remain confident in her choices. Her brief response to the Instagram troll has once again shown that she is willing to shut down unnecessary criticism on her own terms.

Yash has praised Kiara Advani for her professionalism and dedication while working on Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, revealing that he and director Geetu Mohandas became extremely protective of the actress during the demanding shoot. Speaking at the film’s audio launch in Mumbai on Thursday, Yash opened up about his experience working with Kiara, particularly during the period when she was pregnant. The actor admitted that he was initially concerned about whether she would be able to handle the physically demanding requirements of the project. According to Yash, his first conversation with Kiara gave him the impression that she was ready to take on the challenge. He recalled discussing a rain sequence with her and joking that it would be easy despite never having filmed one himself. However, once he witnessed the actual demands of the sequence, he realized just how challenging the production could be. Yash said Kiara remained completely committed to the project and continued to give her best even after becoming pregnant. Her dedication reportedly made a strong impression on everyone involved with the film. The actor also revealed that he and Geetu became particularly cautious about Kiara’s safety on set. He described the two of them as being like “bouncers and bodyguards,” constantly looking out for the actress and making sure she was taken care of while filming. Yash expressed his gratitude to Kiara for giving the project her full commitment, calling her contribution to the movie especially meaningful. His comments highlighted the close working relationship that developed between the cast and crew during the challenging production. Toxic marks Kiara’s first major release following her pregnancy. The actress had previously faced criticism over her appearance in intimate portions of the song “Tabaahi,” although the response became more positive following the release of the film’s trailer. Yash had also defended Kiara during the trailer launch in Bengaluru, acknowledging the pressures actors can face because of public expectations and criticism. He suggested that audiences and the industry are gradually moving toward a more progressive understanding of performers and their choices. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups features an ensemble cast that includes Huma Qureshi, Rukmini Vasanth, Tara Sutaria and Nayanthara. The film is particularly anticipated because it marks Yash’s return to the big screen following the massive success of KGF Chapter 2. The upcoming project is expected to present Yash in a new avatar while combining action, drama and a darker fairytale-inspired world. With the film generating considerable attention ahead of its release, Yash’s praise for Kiara has further highlighted the dedication that went into its production. Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups is scheduled to release worldwide on August 26.

Michael Jackson’s estate has secured a significant legal victory in a lawsuit filed by four siblings who accused the late pop icon of sexually abusing and trafficking them when they were minors. The case was brought earlier this year by siblings Edward, Dominic, Marie-Nicole and Aldo Cascio against the estate of Jackson, who died in 2009 at the age of 50. The siblings claimed that the singer had groomed and brainwashed them during their childhood and alleged that they were subjected to sexual abuse and trafficking. The Cascio siblings had a close relationship with Jackson while growing up and have previously described themselves as part of his “second family.” Their connection with the singer became the focus of legal proceedings after they made allegations against him and subsequently reached a settlement with his estate. In 2019, Jackson’s estate agreed to pay the siblings $3.5 million as part of a settlement. The agreement did not include any admission of wrongdoing by the estate or acknowledge the allegations made against the late singer. The siblings later attempted to challenge the settlement, arguing that the agreement should be declared invalid and unenforceable. They claimed they had been pressured or coerced into signing the deal and sought to pursue their allegations through the court system. However, their effort to bring the dispute before a public trial has now been rejected. On Wednesday, August 12, Judge Hernán D. Vera ruled that the legal dispute must be resolved through confidential arbitration instead of proceeding as a public court case. The decision represents a major victory for Jackson’s estate, as arbitration generally keeps legal proceedings private and limits the matter from moving forward through a public trial. According to court papers obtained by Billboard, Judge Vera acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations but concluded that the existing agreement required the dispute to be handled through arbitration. “Although the allegations are horrific, the court is without discretion to do aught but enforce the language of the arbitration clause,” the court stated. The ruling does not determine whether the allegations made by the Cascio siblings are true or false. Instead, it focuses on the legal terms of the 2019 settlement and whether the dispute must follow the arbitration provision contained in that agreement. The siblings’ allegations have nevertheless brought renewed attention to Jackson’s relationships with children and families who were close to him during his lifetime. Jackson, one of the most influential entertainers in music history, faced allegations of sexual misconduct during his career, though he consistently denied wrongdoing. The latest ruling means that the Cascio siblings’ dispute with Jackson’s estate will now continue, if at all, through a private arbitration process rather than a public courtroom trial. The outcome of that process could determine whether their challenge to the 2019 settlement has any further legal consequences.

Ashley Callingbull has opened up about her decision to speak out during the Miss Universe Canada 2026 pageant, saying she felt a responsibility to use her platform to raise awareness about cultural appropriation and encourage greater accountability. The 36-year-old pageant contestant became involved in a controversy after contestants Karisa Haverkamp and Jasleen Kaily were photographed wearing outfits that featured prominent elements inspired by traditional Indigenous clothing. The images sparked criticism, with concerns being raised about the use of Indigenous cultural symbols in a pageant setting. Callingbull, who is known for representing and advocating for Indigenous communities, said the situation was deeply upsetting. She explained that seeing the outfits felt disrespectful and described the incident as “a slap in the face to the Indigenous community.” Rather than remaining silent, Callingbull decided to address the issue publicly during the live pageant. She found an unexpected opportunity when she and fellow host Sonny Borelli were preparing to announce the top 20 contestants. At that moment, the teleprompter stopped working, leaving the presenters without their prepared script. Instead of simply waiting for the technical problem to be resolved, Callingbull used the unscripted moment to speak directly to the audience. She delivered a brief but powerful message, saying, “It’s 2026, we should know better.” Her comments immediately drew attention because they came during a highly visible moment of the competition. Callingbull made it clear that she wanted to use the platform to encourage people to think more carefully about cultural representation and respect. Following the controversy, Miss Universe Canada responded to the criticism and stated that causing offense, hurt or misunderstanding was never the organization’s intention. The response came amid wider discussion about cultural sensitivity and the responsibility of public events to ensure that Indigenous traditions and symbols are treated respectfully. Callingbull has since received significant support from people who appreciated her decision to speak up. She said the response has reinforced her belief that public figures can play an important role in encouraging meaningful conversations. For Callingbull, the incident was about more than a pageant or a particular outfit. She believes it was an opportunity to highlight the importance of respecting Indigenous culture and challenging behavior that may be considered inappropriate or insensitive. She hopes the situation will encourage others to find the courage to speak out when they witness something they believe is wrong. By using an unexpected moment on stage to address the controversy, Callingbull showed that even an unscripted statement can draw attention to important social issues and encourage broader conversations about respect, representation and cultural awareness.

Pakistan celebrated its 79th Independence Day on Friday, August 14, with people across the country coming together to express their love for the nation. Members of the Pakistani entertainment industry also joined the celebrations, using social media to share patriotic messages, family moments and prayers for the country’s future. Several prominent showbiz personalities, including Asim Azhar, Aiman Khan, Muneeb Butt, Resham, Amar Khan, Faysal Quraishi, Zara Noor Abbas, Asad Siddiqui and others, marked the occasion through posts and stories on Instagram. Their celebrations reflected a mixture of national pride, family togetherness and heartfelt wishes for Pakistan. Actor Danish Taimoor shared a particularly emotional message, acknowledging that life in the country can sometimes bring frustration, disappointment and uncertainty. However, he stressed that despite the challenges, Pakistan remains home and deserves to be valued. Taimoor highlighted the sacrifices behind the creation of the country, reminding his followers that Pakistan was not simply handed to its people. It was achieved through struggle, prayers and sacrifices made by generations. His message focused on the emotional connection people share with their homeland and encouraged Pakistanis to remain hopeful despite difficulties. He concluded his message with a powerful expression of national unity, emphasizing that the identity of Pakistan is closely connected with its people. Other celebrities also embraced the festive spirit by sharing pictures and videos from their Independence Day celebrations. Saif Ali Khan was seen in a scenic clip singing a national song on stage, adding a musical touch to the day’s celebrations. Muneeb Butt also shared a warm family moment with his followers. In an Instagram story, his wife Aiman Khan and their daughters could be seen celebrating the occasion and chanting the popular slogan “Pakistan Zindabad.” The family’s cheerful celebration quickly became part of the many patriotic moments shared by Pakistani celebrities online. Across social media, stars dressed in traditional and festive outfits, displayed the national colours and shared messages wishing their fellow citizens a happy Independence Day. Many also used the occasion to pray for peace, stability, progress and prosperity in the country. The entertainment industry’s participation reflected how Independence Day continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Pakistanis. While celebrities used their platforms to celebrate the country’s achievements, several messages also acknowledged the challenges faced by ordinary citizens. From emotional reflections on the sacrifices made for independence to joyful family celebrations, the stars’ posts captured different sides of the national occasion. Their messages ultimately carried a common sentiment: despite hardships and differences, Pakistan remains a shared home and a source of collective identity. As the country marked another year of independence, Pakistani showbiz personalities joined millions of citizens in celebrating the nation while expressing hope for a peaceful, prosperous and brighter future. Their heartfelt messages served as reminders of the importance of unity, resilience and love for the homeland.

Chris Brown has responded to Lionel Richie after the legendary singer made a light-hearted joke about Brown and Usher’s ongoing R&B tour. Richie recently addressed the pair’s “The R&B Tour” while performing with Earth, Wind & Fire. During a break between songs at the Mortgage Matchup Center, the 77-year-old singer pointed out that Usher and Brown were attempting to bring something new to the R&B touring scene. “Usher, Chris Brown… see, they trying to do something new,” Richie told the crowd. However, he quickly reminded fans that artists from his generation had already created similar large-scale R&B performances decades ago. Referring to his time with the Commodores and Earth, Wind & Fire, Richie said they had been doing the same thing around 40 years earlier. He then added a cheeky remark that quickly caught the attention of social media users. “Only difference is, between then and now, we didn’t go to jail!” Richie joked. The comment drew laughter from the audience, while Richie appeared to realise that the joke could be taken seriously. He immediately softened his remarks, saying that they were “fine Christian men.” The clip of Richie’s comments soon went viral online, prompting Brown to respond directly. Rather than appearing offended by the veteran singer’s joke, Brown joined in on the humour. Commenting on a video of the incident, the singer wrote, “damn unk. We love ya paw paw,” accompanied by laughing emojis. His response suggested that he understood Richie’s comments as playful banter rather than a serious criticism. Richie’s joke comes at a time when Brown has faced renewed legal attention. The singer is reportedly seeking a retrial in a dog attack case in which he was ordered to pay millions of dollars in damages to a former housekeeper following an alleged incident involving his dog. Brown also recently pleaded guilty to affray over a 2023 nightclub incident in London involving music producer Abraham Diaw. Brown and his vocal coach, Omololu Akinlolu, who was also charged in connection with the case, are expected to be sentenced in October 2026. Meanwhile, Brown and Usher continue their major “The R&B Tour,” which features 33 stadium dates across North America. The tour began in June and has brought together two of R&B’s biggest modern stars for a series of highly anticipated performances. Usher has previously framed the tour as a celebration of R&B and its ability to fill major stadiums, rather than a competition between the two headliners. Richie’s comments therefore appear to have been more of a playful reminder of R&B’s long history than a serious criticism of Brown and Usher. Brown’s relaxed response also showed that he was willing to take the joke in good spirits.