Hollywood's Biggest Shocks Unveiled: The 2026 Oscar Nominations Deliver Historic Highs, Heartbreaking Snubs, and Unexpected Surprises

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the nominations for the 98th Academy Awards today, setting the stage for one of the most unpredictable Oscar seasons in recent memory. While Ryan Coogler's *Sinners* made history with a record-breaking **16 nominations**—the most ever for a single film—the morning was equally defined by stunning omissions and surprising inclusions that have left fans, critics, and industry insiders buzzing.

### Historic Milestone

- *Sinners* (Ryan Coogler) dominated the conversation with its unprecedented haul, earning nods across major categories including Best Picture, Director, and multiple acting and technical slots. The film's period drama and ensemble cast—including standout performances from **Delroy Lindo** and **Wunmi Mosaku**—propelled it into record territory, surpassing previous benchmarks and positioning it as a frontrunner.

### Biggest Snubs

The Academy's choices sparked widespread debate, with several high-profile contenders left out entirely:

- **Wicked: For Good** — The highly anticipated sequel to the blockbuster musical adaptation was completely shut out, receiving **zero nominations** despite massive box office success, critical praise for its spectacle, and strong buzz for **Ariana Grande**'s performance as Glinda. The snub is being called one of the most shocking in years, with many questioning the Academy's stance on big-budget musicals.

- **Ariana Grande** (Supporting Actress, *Wicked: For Good*) — Grande's widely acclaimed turn failed to land a nomination, marking a major disappointment for fans and the film's supporters.

- **Paul Mescal** (Supporting Actor, *Hamnet*) — The *Gladiator II* and *Normal People* star, long considered a lock, was surprisingly omitted.

- **Chase Infiniti** and other rising talents — Several buzzed-about newcomers and veterans alike missed out, contributing to the sense of unpredictability.

Additional notable absences included **George Clooney** (for his project *Jay Kelly* or similar), **Amanda Seyfried**, and certain women composers, highlighting ongoing discussions about category representation.

### Biggest Surprises

Amid the omissions came joyful shocks that energized the race:

- **F1** (Brad Pitt starrer) — The high-octane racing drama roared into **Best Picture** contention, a surprise inclusion that many attribute to its crowd-pleasing appeal and technical prowess. It earned nods in multiple categories, proving that "comfort-food" blockbusters can still win Academy favor.

- **Elle Fanning** (Supporting Actress, *Sentimental Value*) — The young star earned a long-overdue nomination, delighting fans and marking a breakthrough moment.

- **Delroy Lindo** and **Wunmi Mosaku** (*Sinners*) — Both secured nominations, with Lindo's powerful performance and Mosaku's supporting work standing out as well-deserved inclusions.

- **Kate Hudson** — A surprise nod added veteran star power to the mix, while other under-the-radar picks like **Nicholas Pike** brought fresh energy.

The nominations reflect a diverse slate, blending prestige dramas, genre films, and bold directorial visions. With *Sinners* leading the pack and surprises like *F1* shaking up the Best Picture race, this year's Oscars promise intense competition and plenty of drama leading up to the ceremony.

Fashion and film icons gathered in Rome to bid a poignant farewell to legendary Italian designer Valentino Garavani

 **Fashion and film icons gathered in Rome** to bid a poignant farewell to legendary Italian designer **Valentino Garavani**, affectionately known as the "emperor" or "Last Emperor" of haute couture, who passed away at the age of 93 on January 19, 2026.

The emotional funeral service took place on **January 23, 2026**, at the historic **Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri** in Rome. Valentino's signature vibrant red—iconic in his collections—was echoed throughout the ceremony, from floral tributes to attire worn by mourners, symbolizing the enduring legacy of his bold, elegant aesthetic.

A star-studded crowd of fashion titans, Hollywood royalty, supermodels, and longtime admirers paid their respects:

- **Fashion heavyweights** including **Donatella Versace**, **Tom Ford**, **Maria Grazia Chiuri** (Dior), and **Anna Wintour** (former Vogue editor-in-chief).

- **Actresses** such as **Anne Hathaway**, **Elizabeth Hurley**, **Gwyneth Paltrow**, **Cate Blanchett**, **Julia Roberts**, **Sophia Loren**, and **Jessica Lange**—many of whom famously wore Valentino gowns on red carpets and at Oscar ceremonies.

- **Models** like **Natalia Vodianova**, **Bianca Brandolini d'Adda**, and **Cindy Crawford**.

- Close companions including Valentino's longtime business partner and co-founder **Giancarlo Giammetti** (in a sharp black satin suit) and his partner **Bruce Hoeksema**.

The two-day public viewing (wake) began earlier in the week at **PM23**, an arts and culture space in Rome, allowing thousands of fans and admirers to pay homage before the private family service.

Valentino Garavani, born in 1932 in Voghera, Italy, founded his eponymous house in 1960 and became synonymous with timeless glamour, exquisite tailoring, and his beloved "Valentino Red." He dressed generations of royals, first ladies (including Jackie Kennedy), and screen legends, earning him the moniker "fashion's last emperor." His influence spanned decades, from dressing Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor to modern stars, and his retirement in 2008 marked the end of an era in haute couture.

Tributes poured in from across the industry, with many describing him as a visionary who elevated Italian fashion globally. The ceremony was described as moving and celebratory, reflecting a life of extraordinary creativity and elegance.

Images from the event show elegant black attire mixed with pops of red, emotional hugs among icons, floral arrangements in Valentino's signature hue, and the grand basilica setting— a fitting send-off for one of fashion's greatest masters.

Rest in peace, Valentino. Your red will forever shine. ❤️🇮🇹✂️

Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Calvin Bassey have been officially named in the CAF Team of the Tournament

Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Calvin Bassey have been officially named in the CAF Team of the Tournament** for the TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (hosted in Morocco), recognizing their standout performances throughout the competition.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) released the prestigious Best XI shortly after the tournament's conclusion, with **Senegal** (the champions) and **Morocco** (runners-up) dominating the selection—each with four players featured. Nigeria's trio earned their spots thanks to consistent excellence:

- **Victor Osimhen** (striker) — Led Nigeria's attack with clinical finishing, key goals, and physical presence, building on his reputation as one of Africa's top forwards.

- **Ademola Lookman** (winger/attacking midfielder) — Top assist provider in the tournament (with four assists) and a creative force; notably, he's the only player to make the AFCON Team of the Tournament back-to-back (2023 and 2025).

- **Calvin Bassey** (defender) — Rock-solid at the back, completed more passes than any other player in the competition, and provided defensive stability that helped Nigeria go deep.

The full **CAF AFCON 2025 Team of the Tournament** (as selected by CAF's Technical Study Group) highlights Senegal and Morocco's dominance, but Nigeria's representation underscores the Super Eagles' strong showing despite not lifting the trophy.

Fans and analysts have praised the selections, with some noting omissions like Alex Iwobi or goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, but the trio's inclusion is widely seen as deserved. Osimhen and Lookman continue to cement their status as modern African stars, while Bassey's ball-playing ability from defense stood out.

This comes amid celebrations for Nigerian football talent shining on the continental stage—proud moments for the Super Eagles! 🇳🇬🦅

UCL: Moises Caicedo came to Chelsea's rescue

Moises Caicedo came to Chelsea's rescue with a late goal in their UEFA Champions League (UCL) match, securing a hard-fought **1-0 victory** over Cypriot side **Pafos FC** at Stamford Bridge.

The game took place on **January 21, 2026** (or around that date, based on reports), during the **2025/26 UCL league phase** (Matchday 7). Chelsea dominated possession but struggled to break down a stubborn Pafos defense, including their goalkeeper who made several key saves. The Blues had an earlier goal controversially ruled out (Enzo Fernandez), and Pafos even hit the post at one point.

The breakthrough finally came in the **77th minute** when **Moises Caicedo** headed home from a **Pedro Neto corner kick**, reacting quickest in the box to slot it past the keeper. This late winner was crucial for Chelsea, moving them closer to **automatic qualification** for the knockout stages (last 16), potentially skipping the playoff round by climbing into a strong position in the league table (reports mention up to 8th).

Caicedo was named **Man of the Match** for his overall performance—defensive solidity, high pass accuracy (around 96%), and goal threat. New manager **Liam Rosenior** (in his first UCL night in charge?) praised Caicedo's "world-class" qualities and goal-scoring ability from midfield.

The win keeps Chelsea's Champions League campaign alive amid a scrappy display from the forwards, highlighting Caicedo's growing importance as a box-to-box leader for the Blues.

Fans and media hailed it as a "vital" three points in a tense night—classic UCL drama where persistence paid off!

(Images show Caicedo celebrating his goal, action shots from the match, and highlights of the header.) 😎🔵

Sexual activity (including intercourse, masturbation, or other forms of sexual expression) has several scientifically supported benefits

 **Sexual activity** (including intercourse, masturbation, or other forms of sexual expression) has several **scientifically supported benefits** for the body and mind when practiced safely and consensually. These effects come from the release of hormones like **endorphins**, **oxytocin**, and **dopamine**, along with physical exertion and emotional connection.

Here are the main **health benefits** backed by research from sources like WebMD, Cleveland Clinic, NIH (PubMed), Harvard Health, and others:

### Physical Benefits

- **Stronger immune system** — Regular sexual activity (e.g., 1–2 times per week) has been linked to higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), which helps fight infections and boosts overall immunity.

- **Better heart health** — It acts like mild exercise, improving blood flow, lowering blood pressure in some people, and potentially reducing the risk of heart disease by enhancing vascular function (similar to moderate cardio).

- **Pain relief** — Orgasms trigger a surge of **endorphins** (natural painkillers), which can reduce headaches, migraines, menstrual cramps, arthritis pain, and other chronic discomforts.

- **Improved sleep** — The release of **prolactin** and **oxytocin** after orgasm promotes relaxation and deeper sleep, helping with insomnia or better rest quality.

- **Calorie burn and fitness** — Sex burns about 3–5 calories per minute (similar to brisk walking), tones pelvic floor muscles (especially beneficial for women’s bladder control and reducing incontinence risk), and supports overall physical fitness.

- **Prostate health in men** — Some studies suggest frequent ejaculation may lower the risk of prostate cancer (though more research is needed).

### Mental & Emotional Benefits

- **Reduced stress and anxiety** — Sexual activity lowers **cortisol** (stress hormone) levels and increases feel-good chemicals, leading to better mood and relaxation.

- **Improved mood and lower depression risk** — The oxytocin and dopamine boost can enhance happiness, self-esteem, and emotional well-being; regular sex is linked to fewer depressive symptoms.

- **Better cognitive function** — Some research shows sexually active adults (especially older ones) tend to have sharper memory, better brain function, and potentially slower cognitive decline.

- **Stronger relationships & intimacy** — It fosters bonding through oxytocin (the “cuddle hormone”), improving emotional closeness, satisfaction, and communication in partnerships.

**Note** — These benefits are most pronounced in **healthy, consensual, and safe sex** (using protection to prevent STIs/pregnancy). Frequency matters — benefits often appear with regular (not excessive) activity, and solo sex (masturbation) provides many of the same physical/mental perks. Individual results vary based on age, health, and lifestyle.