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    Stephen Baldwin explains why he chose faith over H…

    Stephen Baldwin has opened up about one of the biggest decisions of his career, revealing why he stepped away from mainstream Hollywood despite enjoying major success in the 1990s. The actor said he deliberately chose a different path from fellow movie star Tom Cruise, explaining that fame and blockbuster success were never his ultimate goals.  Baldwin, now 60, reflected on his career in a recent interview with People, looking back at the period following his acclaimed performance in the Oscar-winning film The Usual Suspects. At the time, many believed he was on track to become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Instead, Baldwin said he decided to walk away from that path after experiencing a profound change in his personal life.  “I didn’t want to be Tom Cruise and have to make $100 million at the box office,” Baldwin said, adding that he preferred living a simpler life over chasing blockbuster success. He stressed that the comment was not intended as criticism of Cruise but as an explanation of his own priorities and ambitions.  According to Baldwin, everything changed in the early 2000s when he became a born-again Christian. His spiritual journey began after a Brazilian housekeeper working for his family shared what he described as a prophetic message, saying he and his wife, Kennya Baldwin, would one day dedicate their lives to ministry. Although skeptical at first, Baldwin said his perspective shifted after attending Christian events with his sister Beth Baldwin.  One event featuring Christian skateboarders particularly inspired him. The experience led him to create Livin It, a faith-based skateboarding video that combined extreme sports with Christian teachings. The project became a success and eventually grew into a nationwide ministry that took Baldwin to more than 125 churches over four years. That, he said, was the moment he realized his future was no longer in mainstream Hollywood.  Since then, Baldwin has focused on producing faith-based content while remaining active through podcasts, speaking engagements and independent projects. He admitted that his outspoken religious beliefs and political views may have made him less appealing to traditional Hollywood studios, but he has no regrets about the direction his life has taken.  The actor also credited his family for keeping him grounded. Married to Kennya Baldwin since 1990, he said his wife has been his “anchor,” while describing his faith as the foundation of everything he does. As the father of Hailey Bieber and grandfather to two young children, Baldwin said family remains his greatest blessing.  Looking back, Baldwin believes choosing purpose over fame was the right decision. While his career could have followed a more conventional Hollywood trajectory, he says he found greater fulfillment by dedicating his life to faith, family and meaningful work. Rather than measuring success by box office numbers, Baldwin now defines it through the impact he can have on others and remains convinced that his best years are still ahead. 

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    Farhan Akhtar exits Aamir Khan’s Lalkaara, Sidhant Gupta joins cast

    A major casting change has taken place in Aamir Khan and Ashutosh Gowariker’s upcoming sports drama Lalkaara, with Farhan Akhtar stepping away from the project and actor Sidhant Gupta coming on board as his replacement. Farhan was initially expected to play a key role in the film, but he has reportedly withdrawn because of scheduling conflicts with another ambitious project. The actor is preparing for a biographical film based on the life of legendary music composer R.D. Burman, a role that requires significant preparation and a long production schedule. At the same time, Lalkaara is expected to demand extensive cricket training from its cast, along with a lengthy shooting schedule. Balancing both productions reportedly proved difficult, leading Farhan to prioritize the R.D. Burman biopic and step away from his acting commitment in the sports drama. Despite his exit from the cast, Farhan remains closely associated with Lalkaara in his capacity as a producer. The film is being backed by Excel Entertainment, led by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, in collaboration with Rajkumar Hirani Films. His continued involvement ensures that he remains an important part of the project behind the scenes. Following Farhan’s departure, the filmmakers finalized Sidhant Gupta for the role. The actor has steadily built a strong reputation through performances in acclaimed projects such as Inside Edge, Jubilee, Black Warrant, and Freedom at Midnight. His addition to Lalkaara is expected to bring fresh energy to the ensemble cast. Sidhant will reportedly portray one of the close friends of Aamir Khan’s character in the film. While details about his role have been kept under wraps, his casting marks another significant milestone in his growing career, as he joins one of the most anticipated Bollywood projects currently in development. Lalkaara is based on the historic 1952 India-Pakistan Test cricket series, a landmark chapter in the history of cricket between the two neighbouring nations. The film aims to blend sports, history and drama, revisiting a defining moment in Indian cricket through a cinematic narrative. The project is also notable for reuniting Aamir Khan with director Ashutosh Gowariker after their iconic collaboration on Lagaan, the Oscar-nominated sports drama that remains one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated films. Their reunion has generated considerable excitement among fans, who are eager to see the duo work together again after more than two decades. The screenplay has been written by Piyush Gupta, known for his work on Dangal and Chhichhore, alongside Neeraj Singh, who co-wrote Nil Battey Sannata. With an experienced writing team and a story rooted in cricket history, the film has already attracted significant attention. Aamir Khan is set to portray Lala Amarnath, India’s first Test cricket captain after the country gained independence. The role is expected to showcase the legendary cricketer’s leadership and contribution to Indian cricket during its formative years. Production on Lalkaara is scheduled to begin on October 1 in Mumbai. With a refreshed cast, a celebrated filmmaker at the helm, and a story inspired by one of cricket’s most memorable eras, the film is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated sports dramas in the coming years.

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    Danny Ramirez reveals biggest surprise about Aveng…

    Danny Ramirez has opened up about one of the most memorable parts of filming Avengers: Doomsday, revealing that the biggest surprise was not the blockbuster action or the star-studded cast, but the chance to reunite with one of his closest friends. Speaking to People magazine during San Diego Comic-Con on July 25, the actor reflected on his experience working on the highly anticipated Marvel film and described the atmosphere on set as unforgettable.  Ramirez reprises his role as Joaquin Torres, the new Falcon, in Avengers: Doomsday. The actor said returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe was exciting on its own, but sharing the experience with longtime friend Lewis Pullman made it even more special. The two actors previously worked together on Top Gun: Maverick and have remained close ever since. According to Ramirez, reuniting on another major project felt like “summer camp,” with the cast enjoying a fun and supportive environment behind the scenes.  The actor explained that the chemistry among the cast members helped create a positive work atmosphere despite the enormous scale of the production. With Marvel bringing together heroes from the Avengers, Fantastic Four and X-Men franchises, Ramirez admitted it was surreal to see so many iconic characters sharing the same set. He said every day offered new surprises, making the experience unlike anything he had worked on before.  Ramirez also spoke about working alongside legendary performers such as Sir Patrick Stewart and Sir Ian McKellen. In another Comic-Con interview, he praised both actors for their professionalism and dedication, saying he learned a great deal simply by watching them perform. He noted that their decades of experience and command of storytelling inspired him to become a better actor.  Avengers: Doomsday is shaping up to be one of Marvel Studios’ biggest crossover events to date. Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, the film features the return of several beloved MCU stars while introducing major characters from other Marvel franchises. Robert Downey Jr. will make his highly anticipated return to the Marvel universe, this time portraying the iconic villain Doctor Doom instead of Iron Man.  For Ramirez, however, the film’s biggest highlight was far more personal than any action sequence or special effect. He said reconnecting with Pullman reminded him of why he loves making movies, emphasizing the friendships that can grow through years of collaboration. That sense of camaraderie, he explained, made every day on set enjoyable and helped create lasting memories beyond the cameras.  As anticipation builds for Avengers: Doomsday, Ramirez’s comments have given fans a glimpse into the film’s positive behind-the-scenes atmosphere. While audiences are eagerly waiting to see Marvel’s biggest heroes unite on screen, the actor says the genuine friendships formed during production may be the most rewarding part of the entire journey. 

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    Rihanna and A$AP Rocky go all out for son Riot Ros…

    Rihanna and A$AP Rocky pulled out all the stops to celebrate their younger son, Riot Rose, as he turned three with an unforgettable Spider-Man-themed birthday party. Videos and photos shared on social media gave fans a rare glimpse inside the colorful celebration, which was reportedly held in Rihanna’s home country of Barbados. The joyful event showcased the couple’s dedication to creating special memories for their growing family.  The superhero-inspired party featured vibrant Spider-Man decorations, balloons, themed desserts and playful activities designed especially for young guests. Every detail reflected the beloved Marvel character, creating a fun-filled atmosphere for Riot and his friends. Clips circulating online showed children enjoying games, dancing and exploring the festive setup while family members joined in the celebrations.  Although Rihanna and A$AP Rocky are among the world’s biggest music stars, they have consistently kept their children’s lives relatively private. On special occasions, however, they occasionally share small glimpses of family moments, allowing fans to see a more personal side of their lives. Riot’s birthday celebration was one of those rare occasions, with the couple focusing entirely on making the day magical for their son.  The birthday festivities also highlighted Rihanna’s close bond with Barbados. The singer frequently returns to her homeland to spend time with family and celebrate important milestones. Hosting Riot’s birthday there added a meaningful touch to the occasion, bringing loved ones together in a familiar and joyful setting.  The celebration comes during another exciting chapter for the family. Rihanna and A$AP Rocky continue to balance their successful careers while raising their children. Despite busy schedules filled with music, fashion and business ventures, both stars have repeatedly spoken about how becoming parents has changed their priorities. They have often described family as the center of their lives, with fatherhood and motherhood bringing them their greatest happiness.  Fans quickly flooded social media with birthday wishes for Riot after videos from the party began circulating. Many praised the couple for creating a fun, child-focused celebration instead of an extravagant celebrity event. Others admired how the family continues to enjoy meaningful moments together while maintaining a level of privacy for their children.  As Riot celebrates his third birthday, the event serves as another reminder of how much Rihanna and A$AP Rocky value family life. From thoughtful decorations to a lively Spider-Man theme, every detail reflected the love they have for their son. While their professional achievements continue to make headlines around the world, it is moments like these that reveal what matters most to the superstar couple: creating happy memories with their children and celebrating life’s biggest milestones together. 

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    Police identify key suspects in Abdullah Tahir mur…

    LAHORE: Police have made significant progress in the investigation into the murder of former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) ticket-holder Abdullah Tahir, who was shot dead in Lahore on July 29. Investigators say fresh evidence has led to changes in the direction of the probe, while efforts are underway to arrest all those allegedly involved in the killing. According to police officials, the investigation has been reassigned after the suspected shooters were identified during the inquiry. The case was initially being handled by the Investigation Wing of Ghalib Market Police Station. However, investigators decided to revise the probe after obtaining new information about the suspects and their alleged roles in the incident. Police said the alleged main facilitator, Arsalan Jatt, played a key role in the planning and execution of the attack. Investigators claim he transported the suspected shooters from Gujranwala to Lahore in a vehicle before the murder took place. Authorities believe this journey was part of a pre-planned operation carried out before the attack on Abdullah Tahir. Officials further stated that the prime suspect accused of masterminding the murder, identified as Gogi Butt, is currently outside Pakistan. Police said legal proceedings have been initiated to secure his return to the country. Authorities plan to seek the issuance of an international Red Notice to facilitate his arrest and extradition through the relevant international law enforcement agencies. Investigators are also working to trace the remaining suspects believed to have participated in the crime. Police teams are analysing evidence, questioning witnesses and reviewing available records to establish the complete sequence of events and identify everyone involved in the planning and execution of the attack. Police officials said the investigation is continuing on multiple fronts and further arrests are expected as more evidence is collected. Authorities have expressed confidence that all individuals responsible for the murder will be brought before the courts. Abdullah Tahir, a former PTI ticket-holder, was killed in a shooting incident in Lahore on July 29.

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    Maren Morris reflects on major career milestone: ?…

    Maren Morris is celebrating a meaningful milestone in her music career, and the Grammy-winning singer admits the moment has been both exciting and emotional. Speaking with People magazine, the 36-year-old singer-songwriter reflected on nearly a decade since her breakthrough in country music, saying the journey has given her a renewed appreciation for how far she has come. (people.com⁠) Morris looked back on 2016, the year that changed her life with the release of her breakthrough album Hero. The record introduced hits such as My Church and established her as one of country music’s brightest new voices. As she approaches the 10-year anniversary of that defining period, the singer said revisiting those memories has stirred a range of emotions. “It feels really emotional,” Morris told People, explaining that reaching this stage of her career has reminded her of the hard work, uncertainty and determination that shaped her path. She admitted that when she first entered the industry, she never imagined how much her life would change over the following decade. (people.com⁠) The singer also reflected on the challenges she has faced throughout her career. From navigating the pressures of fame to evolving as an artist, Morris said every experience has contributed to her growth both personally and professionally. Rather than trying to repeat past successes, she believes each chapter of her career has taught her something valuable. Over the years, Morris has earned widespread recognition for blending country, pop and folk influences into her music. Her distinctive sound has won her multiple awards, including a Grammy Award, while songs such as The Bones, 80s Mercedes and Girl have become fan favorites. She has also collaborated with several leading artists across different genres, expanding her influence beyond traditional country music. (grammy.com⁠) Recently, Morris has embraced a new creative direction, exploring fresh musical styles while remaining true to her songwriting roots. She explained that personal growth naturally influences her work, allowing her to create music that reflects where she is in life today rather than who she was ten years ago. That willingness to evolve, she said, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career. (people.com⁠) As she celebrates this milestone, Morris expressed gratitude to the fans who have supported her since the beginning. Their encouragement, she said, has made it possible for her to continue taking creative risks and growing as an artist. Looking ahead, the singer remains excited about the future. While the past decade has been filled with unforgettable achievements, she believes her journey is far from over. With new music, fresh inspiration and a decade of experience behind her, Maren Morris is entering the next chapter of her career with confidence, gratitude and a deeper appreciation for everything she has accomplished.

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    Louis Partridge sparks speculation after deleting …

    Louis Partridge has fueled fresh speculation about his relationship with ex-girlfriend Olivia Rodrigo after fans noticed that he had deleted a heartfelt Instagram post previously dedicated to the singer. The move comes months after reports claimed the couple ended their relationship in late 2025 and shortly after Rodrigo was seen publicly with her rumored new boyfriend, prompting renewed attention from fans online. (pinkvilla.com⁠) Partridge and Rodrigo first sparked romance rumors in 2023 before making several public appearances together. Throughout their relationship, the pair generally kept their romance private, although they occasionally shared affectionate moments on social media and during public events. Reports later suggested the two quietly went their separate ways in December 2025, though neither publicly discussed the reason behind the breakup. (pinkvilla.com⁠) The latest speculation began when fans realized that Partridge had removed an Instagram post celebrating Rodrigo’s birthday. The post, which had featured a sweet message and photos of the couple, was no longer visible on his profile. The timing quickly caught the attention of social media users because it came after Rodrigo was photographed with a new rumored partner, leading some fans to wonder whether the deletion was intentional. (pinkvilla.com⁠) Despite the online chatter, there is no confirmation that the deleted post was meant as a message toward Rodrigo. Neither Partridge nor the singer has commented publicly on the removal, and there is no verified evidence suggesting the actor was attempting to criticize or “shade” his former girlfriend. Many celebrities choose to archive or delete posts from previous relationships after a breakup, making the move relatively common. (pinkvilla.com⁠) Rodrigo, meanwhile, has continued to focus on her music and public appearances. Recent reports linking her to a new boyfriend have attracted significant attention, although the Grammy-winning artist has not publicly addressed the status of her personal life. She has often preferred to keep her relationships private despite intense media interest. (pinkvilla.com⁠) As for Partridge, the actor has remained focused on his growing film career while largely avoiding discussions about his private life. Although the deleted Instagram post has sparked widespread speculation, the true reason behind its removal remains unknown. For now, fans continue to debate the timing of Partridge’s decision, but without a statement from either star, any claims that the deletion was directed at Olivia Rodrigo remain unconfirmed. The incident highlights how even small social media changes can quickly become the subject of major public speculation when high-profile celebrities are involved.

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    Met Gala 2027 theme sparks backlash after John Gal…

    The Met Gala 2027 is already generating heated debate months before the event, following the announcement that legendary fashion designer John Galliano will be the focus of next year’s Costume Institute exhibition. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Vogue revealed that the 2027 exhibition will be titled “John Galliano: Horizon,” a decision that has drawn both praise for Galliano’s creative legacy and criticism over his controversial past. (vogue.com⁠) The annual Costume Institute exhibition serves as the inspiration for the Met Gala dress code, making the announcement one of the fashion industry’s biggest events. Organizers described John Galliano: Horizon as a celebration of the designer’s extraordinary impact on fashion, highlighting his groundbreaking work at fashion houses including Givenchy, Dior and Maison Margiela. The exhibition is expected to showcase his most influential collections and explore his decades-long contribution to haute couture. (metmuseum.org⁠) However, the announcement quickly sparked criticism online. Many social media users questioned the decision to honor Galliano because of his highly publicized antisemitic remarks made in 2011. At the time, the British designer was dismissed from Christian Dior after a video emerged showing him making offensive comments. He was later convicted by a French court for public insults based on religion and ethnicity. (bbc.com⁠) Supporters of the exhibition argue that Galliano has spent years rebuilding his career and taking responsibility for his actions. Following the scandal, he publicly apologized, sought treatment for addiction and gradually returned to the fashion industry. His creative revival at Maison Margiela has been widely praised, with many critics describing his recent couture collections as some of the finest work of his career. (vogue.com⁠) Critics, however, believe that celebrating Galliano with one of fashion’s highest-profile exhibitions sends the wrong message. Some argue that his past should not be separated from his artistic achievements, while others say the exhibition should provide broader context rather than simply celebrating his influence. The debate has quickly spread across social media, with fashion enthusiasts, journalists and cultural commentators expressing differing views. (theguardian.com⁠) Despite the controversy, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Vogue have defended their decision by emphasizing Galliano’s lasting impact on fashion history. They say the exhibition aims to examine his artistic vision and transformative role in modern design rather than overlook the complexities of his career. (vogue.com⁠) As anticipation builds for the 2027 Met Gala, discussions surrounding John Galliano: Horizon are likely to continue. While some view the exhibition as a celebration of one of fashion’s most imaginative designers, others believe it raises important questions about accountability, redemption and the legacy of influential public figures. The conversation has ensured that next year’s Met Gala will be about more than glamorous red-carpet looks—it will also be a reflection of the ongoing debate over art, history and responsibility.

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    Government reviews splitting LESCO, MEPCO before privatisation

    The Ministry of Privatisation has established a high-level Technical Committee to examine the feasibility of dividing the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) and Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO) into two or three smaller power distribution companies before their proposed privatisation, according to informed sources. The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to reform Pakistan’s power distribution sector and make state-owned electricity companies more attractive for private investment. LESCO and MEPCO currently serve the largest geographical areas and consumer bases among the country’s distribution companies (DISCOs), prompting officials to assess whether restructuring them into smaller entities could improve operational efficiency and facilitate the privatisation process. Technical Committee Constituted The committee is headed by Sajid Akram, Adviser (Power) at the Privatisation Commission. Other members include Ghulam Rasool, Joint Secretary at the Privatisation Commission; Imran Hafeez, Additional Director Tariff at the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA); and Abid Lodhi, Managing Director of the Power Planning and Monitoring Company (PPMC). The committee has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of the proposal and submitting recommendations to the government after evaluating its technical, operational and strategic implications. Weak Performance Raises Concerns Officials familiar with the matter said that both LESCO and MEPCO have consistently faced operational challenges, particularly in controlling electricity theft, reducing transmission and distribution losses, and improving bill recovery. These issues have affected their financial performance and have remained a major concern for policymakers pursuing reforms in the power sector. Recent audit reports for the fiscal year 2024-25 also highlighted unsatisfactory performance by both companies, reinforcing the need for structural reforms before moving ahead with the privatisation programme. MEPCO: Pakistan’s Largest Distribution Company MEPCO was incorporated in 1998 as a public sector company and operates under a permanent electricity distribution licence issued by NEPRA. The company is wholly owned by the Government of Pakistan through the Ministry of Energy. Serving nearly 8.76 million consumers across 13 districts of southern Punjab, MEPCO is the country’s largest electricity distribution company in terms of customer base. Its extensive network includes more than 82,000 kilometres of distribution lines and over 780 grid stations, supplying electricity across a vast region bordering three provinces. The company has initiated several modernisation projects, including the deployment of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), commonly known as smart metering, and digital billing systems aimed at improving transparency, reducing losses and enhancing customer services. LESCO Serving Over Seven Million Consumers LESCO also began operations in 1998 and supplies electricity to approximately 7.05 million consumers across Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib and Okara. Its consumer base includes domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural and bulk supply customers. The company’s operational network is divided into eight circles supervised by Superintending Engineers and 41 divisions managed by Executive Engineers to oversee field operations. In recent years, LESCO has accelerated efforts to modernise its infrastructure through the installation of smart meters, with plans to convert its entire consumer base to the Advanced Metering Infrastructure by 2029. However, the company continues to face significant operational hurdles, including shortages of transformers and electricity meters, resulting in delays in providing new connections and replacing faulty equipment. These issues have drawn criticism from regulators and consumers alike. Committee’s Terms of Reference According to the approved Terms of Reference (ToRs), the Technical Committee will: Assess the feasibility of splitting LESCO and MEPCO into two or three smaller distribution companies. Examine the potential advantages and disadvantages of such restructuring in line with the National Electricity Plan, the government’s Power Policy and the ongoing privatisation programme. Review whether similar committees were constituted in the past and analyse their findings, recommendations and implementation status. The committee’s recommendations are expected to play an important role in determining whether the government proceeds with restructuring the two major DISCOs before offering them for privatisation.

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    Sabalenka targets strong comeback at Toronto Open

    TORONTO: World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is aiming to rediscover her best form as she begins her campaign at the WTA 1000 Canadian Open in Toronto, with the top ranking and momentum ahead of the US Open at stake. The Belarusian has enjoyed an outstanding hard-court season, winning 23 of her 24 matches on the surface in 2026. Her only defeat came against Elena Rybakina in the Australian Open final. Despite her dominance on hard courts, Sabalenka struggled to produce similar results during the clay and grass-court seasons. She was eliminated in the quarter-finals of the French Open before suffering a fourth-round exit at Wimbledon against Japan’s Naomi Osaka. The Toronto tournament could have a significant impact on the WTA rankings. Sabalenka risks losing the world No. 1 position if she fails to reach the round of 16 and Rybakina goes on to win the title. Although Sabalenka has never progressed beyond the semi-finals at the Canadian event, she believes she is mentally refreshed after taking a short break following Wimbledon. The 27-year-old spent several days on the Greek island of Mykonos before returning to training with renewed motivation. Speaking ahead of the tournament, Sabalenka said the time away from tennis allowed her to recover physically and mentally. She admitted that some adjustments made during the clay and grass seasons did not deliver the desired results but expressed confidence that returning to her usual approach would help her regain consistency. The tournament draw presents another tough challenge for the top seed. Sabalenka leads the upper half, which also features two-time champion Jessica Pegula, Amanda Anisimova and Poland’s Iga Swiatek, who is looking to bounce back after an early Wimbledon exit. Meanwhile, Elena Rybakina heads the bottom half of the draw alongside Coco Gauff, Naomi Osaka and newly crowned Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova. Noskova, who recently captured her maiden Grand Slam title, enters the tournament with growing confidence and could face rising Philippine star Alexandra Eala in the third round. Several notable players will miss the tournament. Wimbledon runner-up Karolina Muchova remains unavailable while recovering from minor surgery, while defending champion Victoria Mboko is also sidelined with the knee injury that forced her to withdraw from Wimbledon.