The entertainment sphere the world over has been agog with activity. From the death of WWE icon, Hulk Hogan to a football movie getting a sequel 2 decades after its release. Join trickle media as we navigate the world of entertainment, bringing out the best trends from the last week!
The Passing of a Wrestling Icon: Hulk Hogan
Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, passed away today at the age of 71. Hogan was a dominant force in professional wrestling during the 1980s and 90s, playing a pivotal role in bringing the sport into mainstream pop culture. His larger-than-life persona and signature “Hulkamania” movement captivated audiences worldwide.
Tributes have poured in for the “Hulkster” from various figures. WWE co-founder Vince McMahon hailed him as “the greatest WWE Superstar of all time” and a “global phenomenon,” despite their complex relationship. Fellow wrestling legend Ric Flair emphasized the profound meaning of their friendship, stating, “Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you.”
Even Hollywood actor Sylvester Stallone, who co-starred with Hogan in Rocky III, praised his “absolutely wonderful” talent and its impact on the film. President Donald Trump also extended his condolences, remembering Hogan as “MAGA all the way – Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart.”
Hogan’s career, however, was also marked by controversy. The icon faced scrutiny for a racist slur caught on tape and for criticizing Kamala Harris during the 2024 election campaign. Known for dramatic shifts, Hogan famously executed a “heel turn” in 1996, transforming from a beloved hero in his iconic yellow and red attire to a villain in all black, famously betraying Randy Savage. This theatrical pivot mirrored real-life reversals, such as his transition from supporting Barack Obama’s presidential campaign to endorsing Donald Trump in 2016.
Tiwa Savage’s Uses Skepta As her Definition Of An Ideal Man
Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage recently shared her preferences for an ideal partner, playfully referencing British-Nigerian rapper Skepta, whose real name is Joseph Junior Adenuga. In a viral social media video, the Afrobeats star expressed her frustration, stating, “I want a guy like Skepta, but I keep getting funny-looking men.” Since her 2018 divorce from former husband and manager, Tunji “Teebillz” Balogun, Tiwa has not been in a public romantic relationship, a sentiment echoed by Skepta, whose rumored romance with supermodel Naomi Campbell also reportedly ended.
Earlier this year, in May, Tiwa elaborated on her views regarding Nigerian men in relationships. She described them as “not romantic,” though she acknowledged their charisma and generosity. This perceived “lack of romance” was cited as a primary reason for her avoidance of relationships with Nigerian men, as she emphasized that she’s “not looking for” their ability to “swag and splash cash.”
In December 2024, Tiwa opened up about the circumstances leading to her divorce, placing the blame on her ex-husband. She revealed that he announced their split online while she was grappling with postpartum depression after their son’s birth. The public backlash she faced for sharing her side of the story, with many blaming her as a woman, was “very heartbreaking” and left her “depressed and angry for so long,” ultimately leading to her transformation into the “African Bad Girl” persona, marked by tattoos, bikinis, and short skirts.
Ghanaian Pastor Nana Agradaa Sentenced to 15 Years for Fraud
Patricia Asiedua, popularly known as Nana Agradaa, the self-styled evangelist and founder of Godsway International Church, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison with hard labor. The Circuit Court in Accra found her guilty of defrauding by false pretense and engaging in charlatanic advertisement. Her conviction stems from a widely publicized money-doubling scam in 2022, where she, formerly a traditional priestess, broadcast a promotional video claiming spiritual powers to double money.
The court heard that numerous individuals flocked to her church, Heaven Way Champion Ministries, handing over significant sums of money in anticipation of receiving increased returns. Instead, the victims were defrauded, sparking public outrage and prompting a swift police investigation. Following sentencing protocols, a pregnancy test was conducted before the final imposition of the 15-year sentence once it was confirmed she was not pregnant.
Nana Agradaa is currently facing multiple other legal challenges, with three separate cases pending before different circuit courts in Accra, all related to charges of defrauding by false pretense and charlatanic advertising. She is also on trial for her alleged involvement in the assault of Prophet Akwasi Appiah in 2020. In a dramatic turn in early 2023, she was re-arrested by the Ghana Police shortly after a court appearance for a separate matter, despite the icon’s case being adjourned. These ongoing legal troubles have raised questions about the authenticity of the former fetish priestess’s conversion to a Christian evangelist in 2021.
South African Icon, Tyla’s “Budget” Glam Sparks Fan Frenzy
South African and Global music icon, Tyla recently caused a stir on social media. The stir was caused after she posted a TikTok “Get Ready With Me” (GRWM) video from Barbados. The singer is in the carribean country to headline the Tipsy Music Festival. The 23-year-old sensation playfully implied she was on a “budget”. She also confessed that she had to do her own hair for the massive show with just curling tongs. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into her travel preparations resonated with fans, showcasing a relatable moment amidst her international success.
Despite her “budget” confession, Tyla rocked the stage looking stunning in a flowy shorts and top set. This proves her undeniable star power. However, it was that single word “budget” that truly captivated her followers. The word sent them into a frenzy of humorous and even concerned responses. Comments flooded in, with many expressing disbelief and playfully questioning if her management was withholding funds.
Fans jumped into the comment section with playful concern, asking, “Hold up, Tyla on a budget?! Is someone stealing her money?” Another fan quipped, “Budget??? Tyla blink twice if management is not giving you your dollars,” hinting at potential shady dealings. The widespread amusement and playful outrage underscored how much fans enjoy seeing the “real” lives of celebrities. It also shows how much they appreciate relatable content. Despite her soaring fame, Tyla maintains a down-to-earth vibe that clearly resonates with her audience.
Bend It Like Beckham Set for Sequel After Two Decades
Bend It Like Beckham, the beloved 2002 film that inspired a generation of women in football, is officially set for a sequel, more than 20 years after its initial release. Director Gurinder Chadha confirmed the news to newsmen in Basel. Basel is where England’s Lionesses were preparing for the Euro 2025 final. Chadha noted that the film “changed the game for women”. She said this is an opportune time to revisit the characters and their stories.
Chadha is aiming for a 2027 release for the next installment. This release date will coincide with both the film’s 25th anniversary and the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The exact format of the sequel, whether another film or a television series, is yet to be determined. Chadha revealed that she has been asked for a sequel almost twice a week since the original’s release. Despite the significant progress made since 2002, she believes there are still misconceptions about women playing football. It does little even with the Lionesses’ recent successes.
The original Bend It Like Beckham, starred Keira Knightley and Parminder Nagra. It was a surprise hit, grossing nearly £60 million on a budget of £3.5 million. Chadha’s initial intention was to “uplift girls” like herself, who often faced societal expectations about their appearance and behavior. She expressed her desire to reiterate the message that “you can do what you want, and you can have it all,” believing there are still important stories to tell and societal norms to challenge. Chadha hopes to reunite the original cast and even anticipates current England squad members “queuing up” for cameo roles.
Final Words
We wish the family of the WWE icon and wrestling fans around the world the fortitude to bear his loss. We also wish Tiwa Savage a dream come true as she searches for her skepta-like ideal man. Till we catch up with each other again next week, enjoy the best that life offers.
