We are going into another week, and as is our norm here at Trickle Media, we shall be examining the various trends, gists and happenings in our global entertainment scene.
This week’s issue is special, with Afrobeat bigwigs taking a wack from both influencers and the government.
The international movie industry also comes alive with a consolatory success for everyone’s favourite Superman actor, Henry Cavill. Let’s dive right in!
Nigerian Entertainment Star Sparks Debate With, Calls for Afrobeats Legends to Retire Gracefully
Reality TV star and DJ Tolanibaj has ignited a firestorm of discussion in the Nigerian music scene by urging Afrobeats icons like Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy to consider retirement if their creative spark has dimmed. In a candid TikTok video, she argued that there’s no shame in stepping back from music to preserve a legacy, rather than releasing subpar tracks that dilute their brand. Tolanibaj’s comments come amid widespread social media criticism of recent releases from these artists, with fans of rival camps fueling the debate.
She emphasized the need for artists to evolve, suggesting they transition into roles like music executives to mentor emerging talent. She cites Olamide and Don Jazzy as exemplary figures. “If your sound no longer resonates with your fans, go into business,” she urged, warning against the “disrespect” of being unfavorably compared to newer artists. Tolanibaj stressed the importance of maintaining an impeccable catalog. She proposed that artists could pivot to lifestyle influencing instead of dropping “nonsense music” that tarnishes their reputation.
The bold statement has divided fans, with some praising her honesty and others defending the right of veteran artists to continue creating. As the conversation rages online, Tolanibaj’s remarks highlight a broader question about legacy and relevance in Nigeria’s fast-evolving music and entertainment industries. Whether her call will inspire change or merely fuel more debate remains to be seen. One thing is clear though, she’s struck a chord in the Afrobeats community.
Henry Cavill’s Night Hunter Finds New Life on Paramount+ Despite Critical Flop
Henry Cavill’s lesser-known 2018 action thriller “Night Hunter” is experiencing an unexpected resurgence, climbing to #9 on Paramount+’s global charts. The film, also known as “Nomis”, sees Cavill trade Superman’s cape for the gritty role of a detective. In the movie, he is entangled in a dark scheme involving abductions. The movie comes alongside a stellar cast including Ben Kingsley, Alexandra Daddario, and Stanley Tucci. Despite its current streaming success, the movie was panned upon release, earning a mere 14% on Rotten Tomatoes. It also got a 50% audience score, with critics slamming its “contrived and cliched” narrative.
In “Night Hunter” Cavill’s character grapples with moral dilemmas as he collaborates with a vigilante to catch a psychotic criminal. The movie offerins fans a dose of his intense, action-oriented persona. The film’s climb on Paramount+ trails behind heavyweights like “A Quiet Place Part II” and “Smile 2”. But its resurgence underscores Cavill’s enduring appeal, even in flawed projects. For fans, the movie provides a gritty showcase of the actor’s versatility. The movie is distinct from his iconic roles as Superman and The Witcher’s Geralt.
Looking ahead, Cavill’s career shows no signs of slowing. He’s set to star in “In the Gray” with Jake Gyllenhaal, lead Amazon’s “Voltron” adaptation, return as Sherlock Holmes in “Enola Holmes 3”, and headline the “Highlander” reboot under Amazon MGM Studios. As “Night Hunter” finds a new audience, it reaffirms Cavill’s ability to draw viewers, proving that even his overlooked gems can shine in the streaming era.
Terry Apala Faces Naira Mutilation Charges in High-Profile EFCC Case
Nigerian musician Terry Alexander Ejeh, popularly known as Terry Apala, was remanded to the Ikoyi Correctional Centre on April 25, 2025, following allegations of Naira note mutilation, as ordered by Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court in Lagos. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Ejeh on a single charge, accusing him of trampling on Naira notes while dancing at a social event on January 5, 2025, at La Madison Place, Oniru. The act is deemed an offence under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.
Ejeh pleaded not guilty, prompting his defense counsel, Felix Nwabuda, to file a bail application and request his release to the defense pending the hearing. However, the prosecution, led by S.I. Suleiman, opposed the move, calling it “alien” and requesting time to review the application. Justice Aluko dismissed the defense’s plea, adjourning the bail hearing to May 5, 2025, and ordered Ejeh’s detention. The case has drawn attention due to its implications for Nigeria’s strict laws against currency tampering, spotlighting the EFCC’s enforcement efforts.
The incident has sparked discussions about cultural practices at social events and the boundaries of artistic expression in Nigeria. As Terry Apala awaits his bail hearing, fans and industry observers are closely watching how this legal battle will unfold, raising questions about the balance between tradition and legal accountability in the entertainment world.
Yungblud’s Raw Reinvention: Boxing, Body Image, and Bold New Music
Yungblud, the 27-year-old British rocker Dominic Harrison, is making waves with a fierce comeback, fueled by personal growth and unapologetic artistry. After struggling with body dysmorphia and an eating disorder, Harrison credits boxing with transforming his self-image, finding empowerment through physical fitness and therapy-like gym sessions with South African boxer Chris Heerden. His newfound confidence shines in his “shirt-off era,” with fans buzzing over his chiseled physique and liberated persona, as seen in recent performances and social media.
Musically, Yungblud is reclaiming his edge with his upcoming album, recorded in a converted Leeds brewery with close collaborators. He revealed that he is shunning commercial pressures. The nine-minute single “Hello Heaven, Hello” is a defiant, genre-defying epic. “Lovesick Lullaby” blends Liam Gallagher’s snarl with Beach Boys harmonies, reflecting his refusal to compromise. Tracks like “Zombie” tackle his insecurities head-on, offering anthems of self-acceptance that resonate deeply with his fanbase. This is evidenced by a viral Amsterdam encounter where he comforted a tearful fan, reinforcing his role as a compassionate figurehead.
Beyond music, Yungblud is taking control of his entertainment empire, consolidating his music, touring, fashion, and Bludfest operations under a new company. After last year’s Bludfest faced logistical issues, he’s vowed improvements for 2025, ensuring better fan experiences. With plans for stadium shows and an album inspired by Queen and Bowie, Yungblud’s ambition is limitless. He proves he’s not just surviving fame’s pressures but thriving through authenticity and connection.
Young Thug’s Returns: New Music and a Life in Limbo
After enduring the longest criminal trial in Georgia history, American rapper, Young Thug, emerged from Fulton County Jail in October 2024. His return follows a complex RICO case that painted him as a gang leader alongside his YSL record label. Having pled guilty to six charges and no contest to two, he faces stringent probation terms. These terms include a 10-year ban from Atlanta and restrictions on gang-related activities. Since his release, Young Thug has kept a low profile, often masking his face in public. He navigates the scars of his 2.5-year incarceration and the ongoing threat of probation revocation. He also recently dodged after a social media post raised prosecutors’ ire.
In a rare GQ interview in Los Angeles, Young Thug opened up about his new album, “UY Scuti”. The album is named after a massive star, reflecting his self-perception as a cultural and entertainment giant. Recorded in Miami and Los Angeles, the album reveals a clearer, more emotive sound. It also comes with themes of exhilaration, love, and pain. Despite his guarded demeanor—wearing a chainmail mask during the interview—he expressed a sense of scale. He also recalls courtroom moments that solidified his realization of his influence: “I’m one of the biggest stars.”
Young Thug’s guarded optimism is tempered by the realities of his legal battles and the need to rebuild. His presence courtside at a Lakers game post-interview signals a tentative step back into public life, but his focus remains on music that reflects his journey. As he balances personal healing with artistic evolution, Young Thug’s story underscores the resilience of a genre-defining artist determined to shine, even under the weight of an uncertain future.
And there you have it, today’s collection of the trendiest and most talked about events in the global entertainment scene. We hope Terry Apapa swims through his legal battles unscathed; and that Young Thug makes the most of his release. We also wish Henry Cavill success in his latest series. Greetings for the new week!
