Entertainment
Julian Sands: British actor confirmed dead
Julian Sands: British actor confirmed dead
Sadly, Julian Sands is dead. Human remains found in mountains in California have been confirmed to be those of British actor Julian Sands, who went missing on a hike in January.
Walkers found the remains on Saturday, police said, and they have now been formally identified.
Sands, 65, was best known for his roles in the Oscar-winning film A Room With A View and TV dramas 24 and Smallville.
His other credits included 2011’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, in which he appeared opposite Daniel Craig.
Sands disappeared on 13 January during bad weather in the Baldy Bowl area of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Air and ground searches were hampered as California was battered by deadly storms, as well as icy conditions and a threat of avalanches.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department said the remains found in the Mount Baldy area at the weekend had been positively identified as the missing actor.
“The manner of death is still under investigation, pending further test results.
“We would like to extend our gratitude to all the volunteers that worked tirelessly to try to locate Mr Sands,” they said in a statement.
Last week, the star’s family thanked the Californian authorities for their efforts in trying to locate him.
“We are deeply grateful to the search teams and coordinators who have worked tirelessly to find Julian,” they said.
“We continue to hold Julian in our hearts with bright memories of him as a wonderful father, husband, explorer, lover of the natural world and the arts, and as an original and collaborative performer.”
At the end of January, brother Nick Sands, who lives in North Yorkshire, where he, Julian and their three other brothers grew up, said he had already said his “goodbyes”.
“I have come to terms with the fact he’s gone and for me that’s how I’ve dealt with it,” he said.
Sands was a keen hiker. His friend and hiking partner Kevin Ryan has previously said that it was a true passion of his, and that “he was the most advanced hiker I know”.
Born in Otley, Yorkshire, and educated at Lord Wandsworth College in Hampshire, Sands started his acting career with roles in such films as The Killing Fields.
That brought him to the attention of director James Ivory, who cast him, ahead of the likes of Rupert Everett, in the 1985 film adaptation of EM Forster’s novel A Room With A View.
Set in Edwardian-era England and Italy, the film centred around Helena Bonham Carter’s character Lucy Honeychurch and her ever-growing love for Sands’ free-spirited George Emerson.
The film, which also featured Dame Maggie Smith, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Dame Judi Dench, was a box office hit and won Oscar, Bafta, and Golden Globe awards. The British Film Institute has named it one of its top 100 British films.
Later, Sands played the English Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley in Ken Russell’s psychological thriller Gothic, before moving to Hollywood.
He played the title role in the 1989 horror film Warlock and its sequel, and his other big screen credits included prominent parts in Arachnophobia, Boxing Helena, and Leaving Las Vegas, as well as starring opposite Jackie Chan in the action-comedy film The Medallion in 2003.
His TV roles included a Russian terrorist in Kiefer Sutherland’s TV drama 24 in 2006, and Superman’s biological father Jor-El in Smallville in 2009.
A friend and fellow actor John Malkovich introduced Sands to his wife, the writer Evgenia Citkowitz. The couple, who had two children, lived in North Hollywood.
Sands was previously married to Sarah Sands, former editor of BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, with whom he also had a son.
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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