Entertainment
Hollywood actor George Clooney, others withdraw support for Biden
Hollywood actor George Clooney, others withdraw support for Biden
What if Hollywood, a key Democratic financial pillar, cut off Joe Biden’s campaign funding? That possibility now looms large after actor George Clooney and other wealthy donors urged the US president to withdraw from the White House race.
“I love Joe Biden. But we need a new nominee,” Clooney wrote in a column in the New York Times on Wednesday, after Biden’s disastrous performance in a televised presidential debate against Republican rival, Donald Trump rekindled fears around the 81-year-old’s fitness for office.
The statement dealt a serious blow to Biden, coming just three weeks after Clooney headlined a major fundraiser in Los Angeles for his reelection campaign.
At the gala, the president was able to raise more than $30 million in one evening, a record amount that showcased the industry’s might in financing the American left.
“If all these big donors pull out, he’s sunk,” said Steve Ross, professor of history at the University of Southern California who wrote a book on the influence of Hollywood on American politics. “Hollywood is still the one shop stop for candidates.”
Clooney is not the only one worried. In recent days, Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings, Walt Disney’s granddaughter Abigail and Hollywood mega agent, Ari Emanuel, whose brother, Rahm served as Barack Obama’s chief of staff — said they would not be financing Biden citing concerns over his age
Even though the millions generated by the American entertainment industry are essential to both parties, Hollywood’s hearts and wallets have predominantly leaned left for decades.
Both Bill and Hillary Clinton relied on Hollywood support in their respective White House bids. In 2007, Obama famously benefited from the “Oprah Winfrey effect,” receiving a boost to his profile after the star TV host organized a dinner to promote the man who was then still only a senator.
During the presidential race in 2020, the entertainment industry gave $104 million to Democrats compared to $13 million to Republicans, according to Open Secrets, a nonprofit that tracks campaign financing.
It wasn’t always that way.
In the 1980s, Republican president Ronald Reagan, himself a former actor, enjoyed the support of stars like Frank Sinatra and relied heavily on Hollywood’s coffers.
“Hollywood started as a conservative base for the Republican Party,” Ross told AFP.
“When Louis B. Mayer took over MGM Studios in the late 20s, he turned it into a fundraising publicity wing for the GOP, and he raised enormous amounts of money,” Ross said, referring to the Republican party.
The four Warner brothers, on the other hand, supported Democrat Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1930s with their studio and their stars.
It was the election of John F. Kennedy in 1960 that marked Hollywood starting to shift to the left, as the era of blacklisting actors for suspected communist sympathies came to an end.
“It was a new era of free speech for movie stars who weren’t going to be blacklisted if they said anything deemed too radical,” the expert said.
Just hitting pause?
But even with its cultural and financial prowess, does Hollywood have the power to axe Biden from the race?
Clooney’s New York Times op-ed “is another pressure point, for sure,” said Steven Maviglio, a Democratic adviser who worked with former California governor Gray Davis.
But Maviglio believes the panic of certain donors to be “a temporary phenomenon.”
Entertainment
Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey
Islamic Rising Star, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri Marks Birthday, Reflects on 15-Year Music Journey
Popular Islamic singer and entertainer, Hajia Kifaya Aṣeyọri, has continued to receive prayers and accolades from fans, friends and well-wishers as she celebrates her birthday today.
The celebrated artiste, known for her inspiring Islamic songs and captivating stage presence, described music as a divine calling and a special gift from God meant to announce her greatness to the world.
Speaking on her journey in the entertainment industry, Kifaya said her unique voice and wisdom helped her gain quick recognition among music lovers and industry stakeholders.
According to her, “My beautiful voice coupled with great wisdom have made my versatility in the entertainment industry quick to be noticed by all and sundry.”
The singer, whose maiden album titled Alaseyori brought her into the limelight years ago, also ventured into fashion and the sales of imported shoes and bags alongside her music career.
As part of efforts to expand her reach in the industry, the Islamic music star disclosed that her songs are available on several digital streaming platforms, including Audiomack and other online play stores.
Having spent over 15 years in the music industry, Kifaya said her versatility has also earned her ambassadorial deals for different brands.
Despite the challenges encountered on her path to success, the singer expressed gratitude to God for sustaining her through difficult times.
“I have got reasons to appreciate God. Though I have passed through a lot, today I have opportunities to thank God,” she said.
Meanwhile, admirers have continued to describe the celebrant as a symbol of grace, faith and excellence, praying for greater achievements, sound health, peace of mind and abundant blessings in her new age.
The birthday celebration has also generated reactions across social media platforms, where fans and associates continue to celebrate her impact in the Islamic entertainment space and wish her many more fruitful years filled with happiness and prosperity.
celebrity radar - gossips
Ileya Tonic : King Saheed Osupa Announces New 2-in-1 Album, Acapella & Metamorphosis
Ileya Tonic : King Saheed Osupa Announces New 2-in-1 Album, Acapella & Metamorphosis
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Veteran Fuji musician King Saheed Osupa is set to release a new 2-in-1 album titled Acapella & Metamorphosis on May 26, 2026.
The announcement was revealed through promotional materials shared across the singer’s official social media pages, where anticipation has already started building among longtime fans of the Fuji icon. The artwork for the project presents Osupa in a calm and regal setting, matching the mature image he has maintained throughout his career.
While full details about the tracklist and featured artists are yet to be officially released, the title of the project has already sparked conversations online. “Metamorphosis” suggests a new phase or evolution, while “Acapella” hints at a more raw or expressive musical direction. Together, both titles point toward a project that may combine classic Fuji elements with a refreshed sound and message.
Over the years, Osupa has remained one of the most respected voices in Fuji music, known for his deep lyrical style, cultural storytelling, and loyal fanbase across Nigeria and beyond. Even as the music industry continues to evolve, the singer has maintained strong relevance, especially among audiences who appreciate traditional Yoruba-rooted sounds blended with contemporary production.
The decision to release a 2-in-1 album also stands out at a time when many artists are focusing on shorter projects and singles. For established acts like Osupa, larger releases often serve as a statement of longevity, consistency, and artistic confidence.
Fans have continued to react positively to the announcement online, with many already counting down to the release date. The project is expected to arrive on major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, Boomplay, YouTube Music, TIDAL, and Deezer.
With the official release now scheduled for May 26, listeners will be watching closely to see what King Saheed Osupa delivers on Acapella & Metamorphosis and whether the project marks another defining moment in his long-running career.
Entertainment
Aesha Mikaelson Returns as Producer: Actress Aishy Announces Powerful Screen Comeback With IJA ORU
Aesha Mikaelson Returns as Producer: Actress Aishy Announces Powerful Screen Comeback With IJA ORU
After years away from the spotlight, Nigerian actress, producer, and media personality Aesha Mikaelson is making a highly anticipated return to the screen with a bold new identity, a renewed creative vision, and a powerful upcoming movie project titled IJA ORU — a project she is also producing.
Previously known in the entertainment industry as Aishy, whose real name is Aisat Iyabode Asamu, the actress built recognition through multiple media appearances and interviews across prominent Nigerian publications. Over the years, she became known for her charisma, screen presence, and growing influence within Nollywood and youth entertainment culture.
Now reintroduced professionally as Aesha Mikaelson, she is entering a new phase of her career — one that reflects growth, reinvention, and artistic maturity, marked not only by her return in front of the camera but also by her expanded role behind the scenes as a producer.
Her comeback project, IJA ORU, is scheduled to premiere on May 22 via Yetunde Barnabas TV on YouTube, marking what many insiders describe as one of the most symbolic independent returns currently building momentum in Nigeria’s digital film space.
Produced by Aesha Mikaelson under Quila Visuals Production, the movie blends mystery, spiritual tension, emotion, and psychological storytelling — themes that continue to resonate strongly with modern African audiences. Her dual role as both lead talent and producer underscores her evolution from performer to creative force shaping her own narratives.
Speaking on her return, Aesha Mikaelson described the project as more than just another film release.
“This is not just a comeback. It is a rebirth — creatively and personally. I took time away from the spotlight to grow, reflect and rebuild my vision as an actress, producer, and storyteller.”
Before her hiatus, Aishy gained public attention through several interviews and entertainment features discussing her career journey, personal growth, and experiences in the entertainment industry. Her media presence appeared in outlets including Vanguard Media Limited, Tribune Online, BusinessDay, TMY News, and The Nation Newspaper.
Industry observers say the rebrand to Aesha Mikaelson — paired with her step into producing — reflects a broader shift happening among modern Nigerian creatives, moving from conventional celebrity culture into more intentional brand positioning, ownership of creative output, and cinematic storytelling.
The visuals surrounding IJA ORU have already generated growing online conversations, particularly for their dark symbolic aesthetic and emotionally charged presentation. Fans and supporters across social media platforms have also welcomed the actress back, describing her return as “long overdue.”
The release further highlights the growing influence of YouTube-driven Nollywood distribution, where independent creators and producers like Aesha Mikaelson are increasingly building global audiences beyond traditional cinema systems.
With IJA ORU now approaching release, many believe Aesha Mikaelson’s return — this time as both star and producer — could mark the beginning of a major new chapter in her career.
For followers who remember the actress as Aishy, the comeback represents nostalgia. For newer audiences discovering her for the first time, it may become the start of a powerful new screen identity led by a creator now firmly in command of her own story.
IJA ORU premieres May 22 on Yetunde Barnabas TV via YouTube.
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