Madonna leads 2026 MTV Video Music Awards nominations, followed by Taylor Swift

NEW YORK (AP) — Madonna leads the 2026 MTV Video Music Award nominations. The network announced the nominations Tuesday. The pop icon has 19 competitive MTV VMA wins to her name. She also won the coveted Video Vanguard Award in 1986. She was the first solo female artist to win it. She is up for 11 awards at this year’s ceremony. Madonna is followed by Taylor Swift's nine nominations. Swift is one win away from becoming the most-awarded artist in VMA history. The 2026 show will broadcast live on CBS on Sept. 27 from the Peacock Theater Los Angeles. It will also simulcast on MTV and be available to stream on Paramount+.

A Chinese animated film mocked as ‘terrible’ becomes a box-office hit

A Chinese animation with crude visuals has unexpectedly surged at the box office. "Niu Lai," a film about a calf dreaming of his family, initially earned just about 10,000 yuan, or about $1,480, in its first 10 days after its Aug. 5 release. On Monday, its daily box office soared to 8.2 million yuan, or more than $1.2 million, with nearly 300,000 admissions. The film's rudimentary 3D animation has drawn mocking comments online, with some calling it "unbelievably terrible." Despite criticism, some viewers appreciate its simplicity. The film, made by just two people, has become a viral sensation, attracting young audiences intrigued by its oddity.

Hayden Panettiere, who starred in ‘Heroes’ and ‘Nashville,’ dies at 36

Hayden Panettiere has died at age 36. The actor starred in television series including “Heroes” and “Nashville.” Police in Greenville, South Carolina, say Panettiere was found unresponsive at an apartment complex on Sunday. They say an autopsy found no signs of trauma and her death remains under investigation. Panettiere’s father announced the actor’s death in a statement provided to ABC News. Panettiere had a prolific career dating to 1996. She appeared in “Remember the Titans” and voiced Dot in the Disney animated movie “A Bug’s Life.” Her role as a superpowered cheerleader in “Heroes” propelled her to fame two decades ago.

A dispute about fact vs. fiction at the trial over Tupac Shakur's 1996 killing in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (AP) — The trial has begun in Las Vegas for a man accused of orchestrating the killing of Tupac Shakur. A prosecutor told jurors during opening statements Monday that while few have been willing to speak about the 1996 shooting, Duane “Keffe D” Davis is the “one person who has a hard time being silent.” Davis was charged with murder nearly 30 years after the drive-by shooting. Prosecutors say he provided the gun to the person who killed Shakur. Davis published a tell-all memoir in 2019 that revived the cold case. His attorney argues the book was fictionalized to make a profit Davis has pleaded not guilty.

Hayden Panettiere tributes include Connie Britton, Viola Davis and Selma Blair

Stars are paying tribute to Hayden Panettiere after the actor's death at 36, including her “Nashville” co-star Connie Britton, Viola Davis, Melissa Barrera and Bethany Joy Lenz, along with podcaster Jay Shetty. Davis praised Panettiere's talent and soul. Bethany Joy Lenz expressed disbelief. Shetty and Blair shared their sorrow. Rosie O'Donnell and David Arquette also paid tribute. “I have no words for this sad song. Just heartbreak,” wrote Britton. Added Kelly Osbourne: “I am deeply saddened by the loss of someone who meant so much to me.” And Wladimir Klitschko, her former partner, says he will make sure their daughter knows who her mother was.

Sonia Gandhi’s memoir to revisit love, loss and her decision to decline India’s top job

NEW YORK (AP) — Sonia Gandhi has a memoir coming out this fall, reflecting on her life in India's political dynasty. Alfred A. Knopf announced Tuesday that “Belonging: A Journey of Love” will be published Nov. 10. Gandhi shares her experiences of marrying into the family of Indira and Rajiv Gandhi and her decision to decline the role of India's prime minister. She writes about the impact of her mother-in-law's assassination in 1984 and her husband's murder seven years later. Gandhi eventually entered politics, becoming the longest-serving president of the Indian National Congress Party.

'Total Eclipse of the Heart' singer Bonnie Tyler remembered as 'a star, but never a diva'

SWANSEA, Wales (AP) — Fans have gathered outside a Welsh church to honor singer Bonnie Tyler, who died last month at age 75. Her song “If I Sing You A Love Song” played as her rose-covered coffin was carried in on Monday as family and friends gathered for her funeral. Tyler was known for hits like “It’s a Heartache” and “Total Eclipse of the Heart." Her manager praised her humility and connection to her roots. Tyler was born Gaynor Hopkins and rose from humble beginnings to earn Grammy nominations. Shewas honored by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to music.

From ‘Nashville’ to ‘Remember the Titans,’ Hayden Panettiere’s notable roles and where to watch

Hayden Panettiere, who died Sunday at 36, spent her life in front of the camera. She debuted in a toy commercial at 11 months old. Her undeniable presence led to starring roles on both small and big screens. Some memorable works include voicing Princess Dot in “A Bug’s Life” and playing Sheryl Yoast in “Remember the Titans.” She starred in “Ice Princess,” “Bring It On: All or Nothing,” and the series “Heroes.” Her role in the series “Nashville” was perhaps her defining one. Panettiere also appeared in “Scream VI,” advocating for her return to the franchise.

Britain's Princess Eugenie names new daughter Adelaide Elizabeth Annina

LONDON (AP) — Britain’s Princess Eugenie has named her first daughter Adelaide Elizabeth Annina. Eugenie announced the name Monday. The baby girl was born Aug. 3 in Lisbon, Portugal. Eugenie shared on Instagram that they have had a special, love-filled time since her arrival. Eugenie is the younger daughter of the former Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson and the niece of King Charles III. The baby girl has two brothers, August and Ernest. Her name honors Queen Elizabeth II and reflects her English and Portuguese roots, inspired by Queen Adelaide and Maria Adelaide of Portugal.

Bruce Springsteen biographer and music critic Dave Marsh dies at 76

Dave Marsh, a renowned music critic known for his influential books on Bruce Springsteen, has died at 76. Friend Jeffrey St. Clair says Marsh died Friday in Connecticut. Marsh had been diagnosed with a degenerative brain disease several years earlier. Springsteen paid tribute to Marsh on Instagram, calling him a “true Rock ‘n’ Roll lifer.” Marsh was an early supporter of Springsteen. He wrote about Springsteen for “Creem” magazine and wrote the bestselling biography “Born to Run.” He also co-founded The Kristen Ann Carr Fund, a charity named after his late daughter.