🎭 Culture & Entertainment
April 28th, 2026
Today's top 5 stories, curated by Daily Direct.
Hollywood Reporter
Ariana Grande Announces New Album ‘Petal’ and Sets Summer Release Date
Ariana Grande has announced her new album *Petal*, set for a summer release coinciding with the launch of her Eternal Sunshine tour in June. The project arrives on the heels of her acclaimed role in *Wicked*, marking another major move in what has become one of pop's most prolific stretches. Fans can expect a busy season as Grande juggles a high-profile touring schedule alongside fresh music.
Read article →
Variety
Animated Feature ‘The Violinist’ Makes History at Annecy as First Singaporean Film in Main Competition
Singapore has cracked one of animation's most prestigious stages. "The Violinist," a hand-drawn feature co-directed by Ervin Han and Spain's Raul Garcia, has secured a spot in the Annecy Animation Film Festival's official competition — a first for any Singapore-produced film in the festival's 65-year history. The milestone signals a coming-of-age moment for Singapore's animation industry on the global stage.
Read article →
Variety
Brad Bird’s ‘Ray Gunn,’ Pixar’s ‘Gatto,’ Ricky Gervais’ ‘Alley Cats’ and a ‘Rick & Morty’ Spin-Off Headline Annecy’s Packed Special Events Program
Brad Bird makes a long-awaited return to the Annecy International Animation Film Festival to present his upcoming feature "Ray Gunn," headlining a Special Events slate that also includes Pixar's "Gatto," Ricky Gervais' "Alley Cats," and a "Rick & Morty" spin-off. The lineup signals a banner year for the festival, bringing together some of animation's biggest names under one roof. For industry watchers, Annecy is shaping up as a must-attend event for major project reveals.
Read article →
Variety
Dave Chappelle Re-Teams With Netflix for Three Comedy Shows During Netflix Is a Joke Fest
Dave Chappelle is returning to Netflix with three nights of live comedy at the Hollywood Palladium as part of the Netflix Is a Joke Fest 2026, running May 7–9. The shows will blend music and comedy, continuing Chappelle's high-profile relationship with the streaming platform. Tickets go on sale April 29.
Read article →Pitchfork
Sleater-Kinney and Liz Phair Unite for Co-Headlining Tour
Sleater-Kinney and Liz Phair are joining forces for a co-headlining run dubbed the Flannel and the Fury tour, celebrating the legacy of women who broke through rock's male-dominated gatekeepers. The pairing brings together two of indie rock's most influential acts from the 1990s alternative era. It's a rare and potent bill that doubles as both a nostalgia trip and a statement of enduring relevance.
Read article →Get this delivered every morning
Join thousands of readers who get the world's most important stories, curated daily.
Start reading free →