The EE Bafta Film Awards are poised to be a spectacular event, with a star-studded guest list and exciting performances. Confirmed attendees include Ariana Grande, Demi Moore, Timothée Chalamet, and Ralph Fiennes. Adding to the excitement, Take That, comprised of Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, and Mark Owen, will perform their 2008 hit "Greatest Day," which featured in the Bafta-nominated film Anora. Jeff Goldblum, acclaimed actor and musician, will deliver a special performance during the In Memoriam segment, showcasing his musical talents ahead of his upcoming album release. The awards ceremony, hosted by David Tennant, will also honor Warwick Davis with the prestigious Bafta Fellowship award.
Anora leads the nominations with seven nods, including Best Film and Leading Actress for Mikey Madison. Cynthia Erivo is also nominated for Leading Actress for her performance in Wicked, while her co-star Ariana Grande is up for Best Supporting Actress. The buzz surrounding the awards has already begun, with EE hosting a Rising Star party in association with Vanity Fair, setting the stage for the main event. The official after-party will feature cocktails by Don Julio Tequila and The Savoy, the official hotel of the awards.
Beyond the Baftas, the music world is abuzz with news and activity. Mary J. Blige, dazzling in a silver bodysuit during her For My Fans tour, revealed she fired a staff member for leaking her setlist. The R&B icon, set to perform at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in July, emphasized the importance of confidentiality and professionalism. Meanwhile, Melanie C of the Spice Girls hinted at a potential reunion in 2024 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their debut single "Wannabe." While Melanie C and Mel B appear enthusiastic, Geri Horner and Victoria Beckham’s participation remains uncertain.
Rising star Marisa Abela is experiencing a whirlwind year with a Bafta Rising Star nomination for her portrayal of Amy Winehouse in the biopic Back to Black, wedding plans with actor Jamie Bogyo, and a recent move to a luxurious North London home. She faces stiff competition in the Rising Star category, including from her Industry co-stars Nabhaan Rizwan and David Jonsson, as well as Jharrel Jerome and Mikey Madison. This category is unique as it’s the only one voted on by the public.
The highly anticipated Led Zeppelin documentary, Becoming Led Zeppelin, is generating immense excitement with its release. Featuring never-before-seen footage and new interviews, the film chronicles the band’s early years. Early reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with prominent musicians like Tom Morello and Chris Robinson praising the documentary’s impact and ability to introduce a new generation to Led Zeppelin’s legendary music.
New musical acts are also making waves. The UK’s Eurovision entry has been revealed as country trio Remember Monday, a departure from recent pop-heavy entries. The group, consisting of Lauren Byrne, Holly-Anne Hull, and Charlotte Steele, gained recognition on The Voice and have a significant following on TikTok. Their selection signifies a shift in the UK’s Eurovision strategy. Other music releases include Pixie Lott’s new video for "Show You Love," incorporating fan footage, and Chesney Hawkes’ single "Loud," a personal reflection on grief.
Festival announcements are creating anticipation, with Nelly Furtado and Faithless headlining The Big Feastival alongside Travis, The Wombats, and Sophie Ellis-Bextor. Tom Walker, fresh off the release of his single "You’ll Get There In The End," announced a small-scale acoustic tour. Finally, Ariana Grande shared her strategy for maintaining anonymity in public, utilizing masks, caps, and hoods to enjoy everyday activities without drawing attention. This allows her to explore and recharge, essential for her well-being amidst her demanding career.
