The post-Met Gala celebrity #blockout2024 trend gained momentum as social media users criticized celebrities for flaunting their wealth at the event while remaining silent on the crisis in Gaza. In other news, the BAFTA TV awards showcased a diverse range of winners, Australian performing arts schools received a significant funding boost, Jerry Seinfeld faced protests for his support of Israel at a university event, and a Swiftie faced backlash for bringing a baby to a Taylor Swift concert in Paris. Teasers for upcoming shows and films, including The Bear season three and a Lord of the Rings film focusing on Gollum, were also released.
Celeb Blockout 2024: The Social Media Rebellion
If you were too busy grooving to Eurovision hits over the weekend, you might have missed the stir caused by the post-Met Gala celebrity #blockout2024 trend. While the glitterati were strutting their stuff at the Met Gala, a parallel movement was brewing on social media. In response to the perceived silence of certain celebrities on the crisis in Gaza, Instagram and TikTok users are taking matters into their own hands. The likes of Kim Kardashian, Zendaya, Cardi B, and Nicki Minaj have found themselves at the receiving end of the digital guillotine, with users blocking them on all platforms and rallying behind hashtags like #blockout2024 and #digitine. It seems the era of holding celebrities accountable on social media is well and truly here.
The BAFTA TV Awards: A Night of Surprises
The BAFTA TV Awards treated us to a night of glitz and glamour, with some unexpected wins and fashion statements stealing the show. While top contenders like The Crown had a slew of nominations, it was lesser-known gems like Top Boy and The Sixth Commandment that shone bright. Joe Lycett, the comedian with a flair for the dramatic, stole the spotlight by fulfilling a quirky bet with his aunties and walking away with an award for his talk show. The red Artists4Ceasefire pins and poignant statements on the red carpet added a touch of activism to the evening, making it a night to remember in the world of British television.
Arts Funding Boost: A Lifeline for Australia’s Creative Institutions
In a welcome move for the arts community, Australia’s leading performing arts schools are set to receive a substantial funding boost in the upcoming federal budget. With a total of $115.2 million allocated over four years, institutions like NIDA and AFTRS are gearing up to expand their offerings and support emerging talent. This injection of funds comes at a critical time when many arts organizations are teetering on the brink of collapse, highlighting the importance of nurturing local talent and ensuring a vibrant creative landscape for the future.
Jerry Seinfeld’s Commencement Speech: A Controversial Moment
Even comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld couldn’t escape controversy, as his commencement speech at Duke University sparked a wave of protests. Students walked out during his address in objection to his support of Israel, creating a tense moment during what was supposed to be a celebratory event. Seinfeld, known for his quick wit, stood his ground and emphasized the concept of utilizing privilege for positive change. The incident shed light on the complexities of navigating political views in the public eye, even for seasoned entertainers like Seinfeld.
