Net Worth

The Debate over Executive Pay in the Oil and Gas Industry Continues

The recent news of significant salary increases for two top oil and gas industry executives, BP’s Bernard Rooney and Shell’s Ben van Baden, has sparked controversy and debate.  

According to estimates, Bernard Looney’s salary and bonuses increased by more than double to £10 million last year from £4.46 million the year before. Ben van Beurden’s pay increased by nearly 50% to £9.7 million.

These pay increases came after BP and Shell reported record gains, largely due to higher energy prices caused by Russia’s attack on Ukraine. However, the high profits and subsequent wage increases have drawn criticism from some regions, especially as energy prices contribute to the rising cost of living. 

The energy industry has been under scrutiny for many years due to concerns about its benefits and environmental impact. The industry is recognized as providing an essential service, but the size of its profits raises questions about whether it pays consumers a fair price. 

Both BP and Shell have emphasized their large investments in renewable energy and their dedication to attaining net-zero emissions by the year 2050 in response to the criticism. The speed and scope of their switch to greener energy sources still raises questions, though.

High salaries for executives in the oil and gas industry have long been a point of contention. In 2021, a High Pay Center report found that his CEO in the FTSE 100 was earning 86 times more than the average UK worker.  

Some argue that high compensation is necessary to attract and retain top talent, while overcompensating executives is unfair and can lead to a culture of greed and inequality. Some argue that there is. 

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Sustainability and Social Responsibility

This news of the pay increases for Bernard Looney and Ben van Beurden highlights the ongoing debate around executive pay in the energy industry. As the world leans towards a greener future, it is likely that there will be increasing pressure on companies to ensure that their pay practices are aligned with their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

While BP has committed to transitioning to green energy, it recently announced that it was scaling back plans to reduce carbon emissions by reducing oil and gas output. The company stated that it needed to invest in oil and gas to meet demand, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic growth and the need to combat climate change.

The disclosure of Looney’s pay rise has caused controversy, specifically due to the fact that the majority of the increase came from performance-based shares valued at £6m, representing 54% of the highest amount he could have received if he had met various targets. While his total pay of £10m has been criticized, it is worth noting that if he had hit all the targets, he could have earned £15.4m.

However, according to the Sunday Times, BP has been consulting shareholders about the award, and it has been guided that a higher payment would not be welcomed by investors. This suggests that there is growing pressure on companies to align their pay practices with their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

Pay Percentage Increase

BP’s annual report also states that Mr. Looney’s wage increase of 4.25% to £1.3m is “below that of the wider UK workforce.”

While this may be true, it does not take away from the fact that executive pay in the energy industry remains a contentious issue, particularly as the industry faces increased scrutiny over its effect on the environment and the need to transition to cleaner energy sources.

As the world leans towards a greener future, it is likely that companies in the energy sector will face increasing pressure to balance economic growth with their responsibility to tackle climate change. 

This will require a shift in priorities, with a greater focus on sustainability and social responsibility, and a willingness to invest in green energy solutions, even if they may not offer the same returns as fossil fuels in the short term.

BP’s record profits and the pay increase of its CEO have highlighted the ongoing tension between economic growth and the need to transition to green energy. While the energy industry has an essential role to play in meeting global energy demand, it must also prioritize sustainability and social responsibility to ensure a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.

Read also: Big Tech’s New Reckoning: Lack of Women CEOs Limits Innovation and Profitability

BP

BP, one of the world’s largest oil and gas companies, has been a major player in the energy industry for over a century. Founded in 1908 as the Anglo-Persian Oil Company, the company has since undergone several name changes and has evolved to become a leader in the transition to clean energy.

In recent years, BP has recognized the urgent need to address climate change and has committed to reducing its carbon footprint. The company has set an ambitious goal of becoming a net-zero company by 2050 or sooner, and has made significant investments in renewable energy and technology.

BP has also set targets to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and increase its investment in low-carbon businesses. The company aims to reduce its emissions by 50% by 2030 and increase its annual low-carbon investment to $5 billion by 2030.

In addition to its focus on clean energy, BP has also taken steps to address its role in the ongoing climate crisis. The company has pledged to reduce its oil and gas production by 40% over the next decade, in line with the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

 

BP’s transition to green energy has not been without challenges. The company has received backlash from environmental groups and investors who have questioned its commitment to sustainability. BP’s recent announcement that it was scaling back plans to decrease carbon emissions by reducing oil and gas output has also raised concerns about the company’s priorities.

Dame Vivienne Westwood Faces Demise at 81

Dame Vivienne Westwood, an unconventional fashion designer who helped popularize the British punk movement with her creations, has passed away.

Westwood, 81, died today (December 29) “in peace with her family in Clapham, South London”, according to a statement from her representatives.

Vivian Isabel Swire was born in Hollingworth, England on April 8, 1941. She began making jewelry after her family moved to Harrow, Middlesex and she enrolled at the University of Westminster’s School of Silversmithing.

After marrying Derek Westwood, an apprentice at a Hoover factory, she gave birth to Benjamin Westwood, her first child, in 1962. Vivienne married Malcolm McLaren shortly after the Westwoods’ divorce. Joseph Corré was the second son she had, born in 1967.

Westwood left his teaching job in 1971 to focus exclusively on fashion design, and McLaren contributed much of its style.

The couple initially opened a store that specialized in revival clothing. 

But it wasn’t until they changed the name to SEX and filled it with rebellious clothing—characterized by torn T-shirts, plaid patterns, integrated rubber, mohair tops, and safety pins as embellishments—that it really took off. 

It was a popular meeting place for important figures in the music scene at the time, including Sid Vicious, Suzie and Banshees guitarist Marco Pironi, and Pop.

Design Center

Soon after, McLaren took over as the Sex Pistols’ manager. The band started wearing the couple’s designs, which contributed to the rise in popularity of British punk and forever linked the two in history.

“It changed the way people looked,” Westwood told The Independent of her early punk clothing.

“I was messianic about punk, seeing if one could put a spoke in the system in some way. I realized there was no subversion without ideas. It’s not enough to want to destroy everything.”

Westwood’s design focus changed from the punk scene to mocking upper-class ladies in the 1980s. However, it was when Westwood unveiled her official clothing line, Pirates, in 1981 that she realized she was a fashion designer.

From then, she began testing the limits of clothes as a depiction of women’s sexuality by introducing the “mini crini,” an adaptation of the Victorian crinoline as a mini skirt.

In the years that followed, Westwood would go on to develop costumes for Virgin Atlantic flight crews, academic gowns for King’s College in London, and digital mock-ups for video game characters like Lunafreya Nox Fleuret from Final Fantasy XV.

Although Westwood is best remembered for her role in creating the so-called “look” of British punk, she insisted that no one style could adequately capture one’s identity or worldview.

“If you invest in art, if you study yourself, you become a freedom fighter immediately because your life changes, you get off the consumer treadmill, and you start thinking,” she said in a 2011 interview with The Guardian. 

“My thing as a fashion designer [is] I said buy less clothes. Keep wearing things that you’ve really chosen that you really love. That is status. It’s not that you have to keep consuming. A status symbol is a book.”

Read also: Modern Tech Based on Fusion Power Now Progresses

Westwood as an Activist

Westwood frequently used her platform as an activist throughout her career. She frequently spoke at environmental justice gatherings and was open about her support for Julian Assange, showing up at various public rallies.

She founded the Climate Revolution in 2012 as a campaign against climate change and global warming.

“Capitalism is as corrupt as a rotten apple,” Westwood said in a Climate Revolution manifesto writing. “It’s the economy, stupid! U accept because u think there’s no alternative. But we have hope (war is fought four lands + cheap labor). Change the economy – NO MAN’S LAND.”

The late fashion designer and her two sons, Ben Westwood and Joe Corré, were interviewed for the Wake Up Punk documentary, which Westwood debuted earlier this year. The interviews focused on the shape-shifting genre of punk.

Corré organized Burn Punk London in 2016, where he destroyed his priceless collection of punk artifacts, much of which had been given to him by his parents.

Many musicians have paid tribute to the late fashion designer since word of his passing spread, including the Blessed Madonna, Yoko Ono, Massive Attack, the Avalanches, Leon Vynehall, Garbage, Rachel Goswell of Slowdive, and Maggie Rogers.

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Before the Limelight

Gordon Swire and Dora Swire (née Ball), who had wed two years earlier, two weeks after the start of the Second World War, were the parents of Westwood.

Her father had been a greengrocer before becoming a storekeeper in an aircraft plant at the time of Vivienne’s birth.

After taking a job in a factory and enrolling in a teacher-training college, she became a primary school teacher. During this time, she created all of the jewelry she sold out of a stall on Portobello Road.

Westwood’s creations were unique and reflected her own personal attitude. She occasionally collaborated with Gary Ness, who gave Westwood concepts and titles for her collections.

Richard Branson and Westwood collaborated extensively to create the clothes for the Virgin Atlantic crew. The female crew members wore red suits with deliberately placed darts around the bust area to draw attention to their curves and hips.

The guys wore a three-piece suit in burgundy and gray with accents on the lapels and pockets. Westwood and Branson employed recycled polyester because they were both concerned about using sustainable materials in their designs to lessen their negative environmental effects.

 

Modern Tech Based on Fusion Power Now Progresses

In the early hours of 1:03 a.m. on Monday, December 5, a remarkable event occurred at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory – fusion power.

The world’s most powerful laser lit up the skies in an experiment, sending ripples beyond physics and awe-inspiring our scientific community.

A small fuel capsule caused a reaction so powerful that it mimicked the power of our sun. The temperatures and pressures were then created using laser pointing, resulting in an incredible melting process.

Scientists at the National Ignition Facility recently accomplished a spectacular feat: they produced more energy than was initially needed to trigger their reaction. This breakthrough marks a major step forward in harnessing sustainable and renewable energy sources for the future.

Fusion energy has taken a huge leap forward with the recent achievements of researchers.

This historical moment shows that our understanding and knowledge of this complex physics is moving in the right direction, even if we have yet to exploit its potential as a source of electricity for commercial use.

“We have taken the first tentative steps towards a clean energy source that could revolutionize the world,” LLNL Director Kim Budil stated.

Fusion Power offers a tantalizing glimpse into an energetic future.

With minimal fuel consumption and no negative impact on the environment, fusion reactors could revolutionize the way we generate electricity, without the dangerous radiation or hazardous waste generated by traditional nuclear solutions.

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Fusion Mass

The success of the NIF is spurring private companies to pursue the goal of commercializing fusion energy. Harnessing this seemingly inexhaustible clean, renewable energy source would be a breakthrough in science and development.

First Light Fusion intends to make waves in the UK in 2023 with their ground-breaking fusion energy strategy.

This privately funded initiative, which is just outside Oxford, uses a novel approach to achieve nuclear fusion, which has the potential to significantly impact worldwide green energy solutions.

With the help of this innovative technique, an aluminum disc may be fired from inside specially crafted fuel containers at a breathtaking 20 km/s at its intended target in order to produce fusion.

When struck, the object yields to a powerful force that may cause a combined energy reaction.

First Light set a record earlier this year as it effectively tapped into a ground-breaking technique and accomplished controlled fusion, marking an enormous industry milestone.

The group will start working on Machine 4 in 2023, an ambitious project intended to release a cutting-edge form of energy. With fusion, it has never been possible to produce more energy than was used, but this enormous reactor is predicted to break that record.

Although there is fierce competition, First Light is pushing forward because it is committed to be the first to develop the long-awaited fusion energy source. With its founder at the helm, this trailblazing company is still enthusiastic about becoming a successful revolution.

“I believe 2023 will be the year we make a significant strategic shift, from what has been essentially a very complex, important experiment, to making very real advances towards commercial fusion energy,” founder of First Light Fusion, Nick Hawker, said.

Fly High

In the United States, a groundbreaking development in fusion technology is expected to be unveiled by early 2023 – setting it on track to becoming a reality.

The ambitious project of building the first prototype fusion reactor in the world is receiving a $50 million investment from the US government in one fortunate private business.

They want to complete this innovative project by the early 2030s in the hopes that it will provide numerous chances for renewable energy and ultimately revolutionize how humans power our world.

Imagine a more cheap, environmentally friendly, and nimble method of transport that can fly and landing like a hummingbird. The evolution of air mobility may be this revolutionary airplane.

Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) planes are changing how people commute in the future and transforming travel for everyone.

Numerous businesses across the world are scurrying to take advantage of the chance to offer services suited for quick journeys with a few passengers in response to the spike in demand for efficient and affordable transportation.

Experts assert that using electric motors in eVTOL aircraft would make flying more affordable than ever before, making it the ideal choice for passengers on a tight budget.

Their airplanes not only have cutting-edge designs, but also impressive advantages like being exceedingly quiet and having no negative environmental effects.

The Bristol-based business Vertical Aerospace wants to lead the revamping of the aviation industry. They want to make air travel accessible for everyone in a safe and sustainable manner using cutting-edge technology and visionary initiatives.

Read also: Elon Musk’s Poll Earns Him Majority of ‘Yes’ to CEO Resignation

Modern Car

This year, the VX4 took off for its first flight. Even though it was momentarily attached to the ground, it was able to hover for an astonishing 10 minutes at that time.

We’ll witness amazing developments in aviation technology in 2023 when a number of test flights take off.

The aircraft can seamlessly transition from vertical takeoff mode for forward flight while flying quicker and at higher altitudes. This amazing development could completely change how airplanes take off and land.

The ambitious goal of the VX4 is to safely and stylishly transport you from point A to point B by 2025. When certified, it may become your preferred option for all types of commutes.

Vertical Aerospace is driving the development of its ground-breaking aircraft in the expanding eVTOL sector. They are up against fierce competition from other businesses that want to lead this developing space industry.

In 2021, public flight testing of VoloCity by German aerospace pioneer Volocopter are expected to mark a significant advancement.

If all goes as planned, they hope to be certified by 2024, at which point they’ll provide business over Singapore, Paris, and Rome.

The German company Lilium intends to reach new heights by constructing the first eVTOL aircraft to be built in production next year. Imagine what they will be able to accomplish as we head into 2021 after testing their five prototypes since 2017 with such remarkable outcomes.

Elon Musk’s Poll Earns Him Majority of ‘Yes’ to CEO Resignation

In a stunning development, Elon Musk’s Twitter followers have been speaking up: They want him removed from his position as CEO of the social media platform.

The unexpected move was fueled by an online poll started by Musk about his future on the platform. More than two-thirds of Musk’s huge following responded to his question about resigning, with a staggering 57.5% saying yes.

Before the polls closed, Musk said he would accept any result voted by Twitter users regarding his $44 billion purchase of the platform.

Famed tech mogul Elon Musk – famous as the leader of Tesla and SpaceX – has faced a flurry of criticism since taking charge of his last company.

Despite the poll being closed, Musk has yet to respond to its findings. So despite possible changes in his role as CEO and owner of Twitter, we will always hear from Musk one way or another.

Musk’s poll sent a surge of engagement on Monday, with more than 17.5 million users casting their votes — 42.5 percent rejecting his potential resignation as CEO.

Over the years, Musk has been known to respect public opinion – even taking it directly into account by honoring polls placed on Twitter. His affinity for the phrase “vox populi, vox dei,” a Latin phrase that translates to “the voice of the people is the voice of God,” is significant. 

Musk took a break from world-changing drudgery to watch the World Cup final. He was spotted in Qatar alongside US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner as he took time out from his busy schedule.

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What They Say

A former Twitter employee, who recently left the company, gave his opinion to BBC News.

The former worker said Musk was “showing himself to be the incompetent fool we all knew he was.”

“His investors are surely looking at this now and questioning whether he was the right horse to back,” the anonymous worker added. “I imagine he’s getting pressure from investors to step down and is using this poll to make it look like he’s following the will of the people instead of the will of those paying his bills.”

With the clock ticking and poll results about to drop, the Binance founder reached out with a message of determination for Musk – encouraging him to remain steadfast in his position

Changpeng Zhao, a renowned investor in Twitter and other companies, showed his support for Musk as he made a whopping $500m investment toward the CEO’s takeover of the company.

Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities predicted that the Twitter poll would bring about a shift in power, possibly signaling an end to Elon Musk’s leadership on the platform.

Since the technology entrepreneur took the helm at Twitter, things have been turned upside-down. Costly restructuring measures led to a mass exodus of employees and sparked heated debates about his leadership style.

Musk’s Helm at the Platform

Musk made some sweeping changes to the company, firing nearly half of his employees and rolling out a verification function that was quickly put on hold. Luckily for users, things picked up again last week.

Furthermore, he has been met with criticism from civil liberties groups for his proposed methods of content moderation; they allege that such measures will lead to a rise in hate speech and false information.

On Friday, a wave of criticism crashed down on Musk’s move from two global bodies. The United Nations and European Union strongly disagreed with Twitter’s choice to suspend several news reporters covering the social media platform.

The UN and EU have taken a stand on media freedom: the former declared that it is “not a toy,” while the latter has warned Twitter of potential sanctions. 

Despite being heralded as the “golden child,” Musk’s Tesla has encountered numerous challenges in recent months. According to Ives, these difficulties have been an unfortunate stain on both the company and its founder.

“Twitter right now – it’s a quicksand situation, and I think it’s gotten worse since Musk took over Twitter. It’s been a circus show,” he continued. “I think ultimately, in the next 24 hours, Musk will probably name a new temporary CEO of Twitter.”

After he launched the poll, Musk posted on Twitter: “As the saying goes, be careful what you wish, as you might get it.”

“Those who want power are the ones who least deserve it,” he later said. 

Read also: TikTok Content May Impact Teens’ Mental Health, Per a Study

Weighing Twitter and Tesla

Ives has expressed his opinion that this is Musk’s subconscious response to the pressure of taking on too many ambitious projects. With such an impressive resume, one can only imagine how difficult it would be to juggle the leadership roles at Twitter, Tesla and SpaceX all at once.

“The biggest problem is the more controversy he creates, advertisers leave, and they run for the hills, and that’s 90% of revenue for Twitter,” he said.

With investors of Tesla no doubt intrigued by Musk’s Twitter poll, Russ Mould – investment director at AJ Bell- anticipates close observation going forward.

“Given how much of a distraction Musk’s tenure at Twitter has become, shareholders in the electric vehicle manufacturer will be breathing a big sigh of relief if he steps back from Twitter and gets back to the day job at Tesla,” he stated.

“For someone who sets so much store by work ethic, Musk sure seems to spend a lot of time on social media. With Tesla shares having more than halved year-to-date, Musk needs to roll up his sleeves and get his main business back on the road.”

TikTok Content May Impact Teens’ Mental Health, Per a Study

Teens can be exposed to potentially harmful content related to suicide and eating disorders just minutes after creating a TikTok account, new research finds, likely heightening scrutiny of the impact of this app on its younger users.

The Center for Countering Digital Hate’s recent report on TikTok revealed a chilling reality: In less than eight minutes, users can access content related to suicide and eating disorders.

As social media platforms continue to expand their reach, parents and guardians should remain vigilant for content of concern targeting younger audiences.

A research study created eight new accounts in four countries to examine how TikTok users engage in conversations about body image and mental health.

Using the platform’s minimum age requirement, account holders aged 13 participated in this study by briefly interacting with related content.

After analyzing data over a 30-minute period, the CCDH revealed that the app was recommending videos about body image and mental health issues at an alarming rate of one video every 39 seconds.

Lawmakers are looking for solutions to protect teens from potential privacy and security risks from the popular TikTok app. State and federal agencies have launched investigations to determine if it is an appropriate platform for young people.

Content Regulation

Over the past year, executives of social media platforms have had to answer questions from Congress about how their sites might affect young users, particularly adolescent girls, and whether they might be contributing to negative mental health outcomes.

The hearings highlighted a pressing need for increased scrutiny in determining what content should appear on our screens.

After intense public hearings and alarming revelations from Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen concerning Instagram’s detrimental effects on teens, the companies promised reform. 

However, recent findings by the CCDH suggest there is still more work to be done to make all digital platforms safer for young users.

“The results are every parent’s nightmare: young people’s feeds are bombarded with harmful, harrowing content that can have a significant cumulative impact on their understanding of the world around them, and their physical and mental health,” Imran Ahmed, CEO of the CCDH, stated.

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TikTok Argues

TikTok has called out a recent study for its limited sample size, short-term analysis window, and scrolling of topics unrelated to the research. 

While these flaws call into question any conclusions drawn about the user experience on their platform – TikTok is keenly aware that accuracy still matters in interpreting user data.

“This activity and resulting experience does not reflect genuine behavior or viewing experiences of real people,” the TikTok spokesperson said in an interview with CNN. 

“We regularly consult with health experts, remove violations of our policies, and provide access to supportive resources for anyone in need.”

The spokesperson added: “We’re mindful that triggering content is unique to each individual and remain focused on fostering a safe and comfortable space for everyone, including people who choose to share their recovery journeys or educate others on these important topics.”

The CCDH believes in shining a light on all stories about eating disorders, whether positive or negative. 

Recently, many people have shared inspiring tales of recovery that empower those struggling with the condition and strengthen their belief for better days ahead.

TikTok said it is dedicated to keeping its users safe with its wide variety of innovative protection barriers. Recent updates include filters that can sort out potentially inappropriate content for a more age-appropriate viewing experience.

More Filters

In July, TikTok took its platform to a whole new level with a terrific trio of features. First, they introduced the “maturity score,” which helps users decide if they are comfortable viewing content that contains complex or mature themes. 

Additionally, it offers tools allowing people to set time limits on videos and take regular screen breaks – all while providing insight via a dashboard tracking app usage.

Furthermore, TikTok provides parents with various tools to ensure their children have safe and enriching social networking experiences. 

US Senator Richard Blumenthal’s team recently conducted an eye-opening experiment on social media algorithms, creating a fake Instagram account of a 13-year-old girl to investigate the regulation of pro-eating disorder accounts. 

By doing so, they uncovered how easily preventative measures could be circumvented and the importance of closer monitoring by tech giants like Instagram.

Read also: Warding Off Respiratory Diseases

Issues

On Instagram, users increasingly found themselves recommended to follow accounts related to extreme dieting. This development was noted by the senator, who reported on the phenomenon in an interview with CNN.

TikTok has made a firm commitment to promoting safety and well-being among its users, banning content that could potentially lead to self-harm or suicide. 

The company had demonstrated an impressive commitment to keeping its platform safe, swiftly removing 93.4% of videos that violated their policies on suicide and self-harm within 24 hours with no views and 97.1% before any reports were filed between April – June this year. 

To protect those at risk of self-harm, the spokesperson told CNN that searching for harmful words or phrases, including #selfharm, will bring up no results. Instead, viewers will be directed towards local support resources providing guidance and help when they need it most.

Despite some progress in regulating TikTok content, the CCDH believes further legislation is required to ensure children are safeguarded from any inappropriate material.

“This report underscores the urgent need for reform of online spaces,” the CCDH’s Ahmed said. 

“Without oversight, TikTok’s opaque platform will continue to profit by serving its users – children as young as 13, remember – increasingly intense and distressing content without checks, resources or support.”

 

Netflix’s ‘Harry & Meghan’ Divulges 6 Events in Their Lives After Royal Step-Away

Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash

Since Harry & Meghan Markle resigned from their positions as members of the British monarchy, people who follow the royals have had a lot of time to consider what the couple was up to.

But now, viewers can take an inside look in the Netflix documentary series Harry & Meghan. The eye-popping documentary series offers a fascinating insight into life as modern-day royalty.

Liz Garbus has put together a unique six-part documentary series that delves into the early days of Prince Harry and Markle’s relationship, from their bittersweet departure from royal life.This captivating show is sure to blow your mind.

Read all about six sensational episodes of Harry & Meghan exploring some of their most breathtaking and eye-opening moments, all available to stream now. These stories reveal never-before-seen details about this beloved duo that are sure to captivate you.

Harry & Meghan Unveils Events

Prince Harry expressed deep regret over a moment of lapse in judgment when he donned a Nazi uniform.

At the tender age of 20, Prince Harry sparked public controversy with a most unexpected fashion choice- attending a party in an SS officer’s uniform. 

Decades later, he publicly reflects on his careless decision to don such clothing and its enduring ramifications in episode 3 of Harry & Meghan.

“It was one of the biggest mistakes of my life,” he states. 

“I felt so ashamed afterward. All I wanted to do was make it right. I sat down and spoke to the Chief Rabbi in London, which had a profound impact on me. I went to Berlin and spoke to a Holocaust survivor. I could have just ignored it and got on and probably made the same mistakes over and over again in my life. But I learned from that.”

More revelations are to be unveiled in later episodes of the docu-series. All six episodes of Harry & Meghan are available for streaming. 

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Prince Harry emotionally recounted his beloved mother, Princess Diana, tears. 

Harry & Meghan uncover the royal spotlight.

Even as a young boy, Harry was keenly aware of the intense glare and scrutiny placed upon his mother – Princess Diana – by an ever-watchful public. This unfortunate reality would become even more pronounced for him later.

“Rarely do we have a holiday without someone with a camera, you know, jumping out of a bush or something,” he states. 

“Within the family, [and] within the system, the advice that’s always given is, ‘Don’t react, [and] don’t feed into it.’ There was always public pressure with its fair share of drama, stress, and also tears, and witnessing those tears. You could always see it on my mum’s face, and I guess those are the moments when I thought, ‘Hang on, what am I? Who am I? What am I part of?'”

In the early days of her relationship with Prince Harry, Meghan Markle remembers feeling overwhelmed and intimidated by intense media attention.

Markle caught the world’s attention when news broke about her relationship with Prince Harry, making it difficult for the Suits star to remain anonymous in Toronto.

“It felt like all the U.K. media descended upon Toronto,” she says. “My house was just surrounded. Just men sitting in their cars all the time, waiting for me to do anything. My neighbors texted me saying, ‘They’re knocking on everyone’s doors; they’re trying to find you.'”

Prince Harry was urged to stay above the fray and disregard any criticism that might arise from their relationship.

From describing her as an “exotic” addition to the royal family to holding standards of perfection that few could possibly measure up to – British media coverage of Markle has been anything but prescient.

“Within that first week that [the relationship] became public knowledge, the first story was, ‘Harry’s new girl (almost) straight outta Compton,'” says Harry in episode 2 of Harry & Meghan. “I was like, whoa.”

The Duke of Wessex added: “The direction from the Palace was, ‘Don’t say anything.’ But what people need to understand is, as far as a lot of the family were concerned, everything that she was being put through, they’d been put through as well.”

“So it was almost like a rite of passage, and some of the members of the family [were] like, ‘Right, but my wife had to go through that, so why should your girlfriend be treated any differently? Why should you get special treatment, why should she be protected?’ And I said, ‘The difference here is the race element.'”

Read also: Kate Winslet and James Cameron Discusses Prod Difference of ‘Titanic’ and ‘Avatar

Meghan Markle is known for her abiding love of hugs (something which sets her apart from more traditional members).

In episode two of ‘Harry & Meghan,’ Markle reveals that her unconventional behavior can come as a surprise to even younger members of the royal family.

“When Will and Kate came over… for dinner, I remember I was in ripped jeans, and I was barefoot,” she states. “Like, I was a hugger, always been a hugger. I didn’t realize that that is jarring for a lot of Brits.”

Little did she know, the royal family’s etiquette extended far beyond public appearances – even private matters.

Upon meeting Queen Elizabeth for the first time, Meghan Markle was surprised to discover that she was expected to curtsy.

‘Harry & Meghan’ Episode 2 takes us on a journey down memory lane as Markle and Harry recall an essential moment of their relationship: meeting the Queen – Harry’s grandmother. 

“My grandmother was the first senior member of the family that Meghan met,” Harry says. “She had no idea what it all consisted of, so it was a bit of a shock to the system for her.”

“How do you explain that to people?” Harry adds. “How do you explain that you bow to your grandmother? And that you will need to curtsy, especially to an American? Like, that’s weird!”

Twitter San Francisco Sells Items

Get ready because Twitter is turning its iconic San Francisco headquarters into a treasure trove of unique memorabilia and supplies. Don’t miss your chance to own an item straight from the heart of this pioneering social media giant.

Twitter is giving new homes to some unique items, from the quirky like a giant Twitter bird statue and oversized ‘@’ shaped planter, to the more practical like a projection system and an espresso maker. looking for.

What if you need some extra motivation in your work from home life? Check out their electric bike charging station.

Heritage Global Partners recently announced an exciting online auction event starting January 17th. Starting prices are just $25-$50. The virtual marketplace will be open for one day only. A pure bargain not to be missed.

Elon Musk’s massive Twitter acquisition has delivered an unexpected cost-cutting shock. As a result, about 50% of the company’s employees were laid off, leading to a class action lawsuit by former employees alleging labor rights violations.

“Twitter has had a massive drop in revenue due to activist groups pressuring advertisers, even though nothing has changed with content moderation, and we did everything we could to appease the activists,” Musk tweeted on November 4.

When Fortune magazine asked if the auction offered financial protection, HGP President Nick Dove responded emphatically, saying anyone who believes such a thing is “an idiot.”

“We don’t determine which assets a company doesn’t need,” Dove said. “Just like a real estate broker doesn’t determine which houses or buildings their client would need to sell.”

Content Regulation

Twitter users now have more control over their content, thanks to Musk’s recent announcement. Users will quickly overcome limitations in viewing posts, giving them more opportunities to reach a wider audience online with their opinions and ideas.

The business magnate has become the champion of conservatives who feel their content is being unfairly censored on social media, shaking up an issue that’s been a central talking point for many.

“Twitter is working on a software update that will show your true account status, so you know clearly if you’ve been shadowbanned, the reason why and how to appeal,” Musk said on Thursday. 

However, he remained tight-lipped, leaving us in the dark about when or how the social media platform might accomplish this.

After releasing new internal Twitter documents on Thursday, Musk highlighted an announcement that put the practice of restricting potentially damaging content under a magnifying glass. 

Despite occasionally denouncing it, he seemed to fully support this tactic, which has become normalized within the tech industry.

Last month, the billionaire weighed in on the ongoing debate about free speech online with a sharp one-liner, summarizing how many digital platforms approach this contentious issue.

“Negative/hate tweets will be max-deboosted & demonetized, so no ads or other revenue to Twitter,” he said. 

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What happened

Musk’s announcement of his Republican vote sparked heated debate among conservatives, who criticized him for embracing an issue they had previously opposed.

Despite Elon Musk spelling out a desire to promote “free speech,” Twitter has struggled to maintain its reputation as an open platform while assuring advertisers and users that the company will still take action against inappropriate content.  

It remains to be seen how they’ll successfully strike this delicate balance amidst growing tension in the company.

With a groundbreaking tweet on Thursday and the release of must-read Twitter Files, Trump attempted to win back support from conservative circles.

In the second installment of her Twitter Files series, journalist Bari Weiss revealed that Twitter had implemented a system to reduce the reach of potentially dangerous or harmful content. 

Users can no longer be exposed to specific accounts, tweets or topics by limiting their visibility in search and trending sections on its platform.

Without users being aware, Twitter has taken strong measures to limit or suspend the account of those who violate its rules. The platform is open about these enforcement actions and may even use a system of “strikes,” which correspond with suspensions in more severe cases.

If a strike is issued, users are notified that their accounts have been paused until they can resolve the issue.

The whirlwind of news surrounding Hunter Biden and his laptop continues, with Matt Taibbi recently delivering an intriguing package: the first edition of “Twitter Files,” a batch of internal emails detailing decisions regarding suppression. 

Weiss has followed up on this saga by tweeting her analysis of what was discovered in those emails. 

Twitter Files

Elon Musk spilled the beans on his fascinating story about internal documents, this time via Twitter. On Friday, he shared Weiss’ thread with a punny caption – “The Twitter Files Part Deux!!,” followed by two popcorn emojis.

Capitol Hill and some influential social media voices have raised heated concerns about the limitations on certain content by platforms like Twitter. With mounting pressure to address this issue, how will these major firms respond?

Twitter is actively taking a stand against content moderation bias, ensuring the company can hear everyone’s voice safely. All users are held to the same standard and treated fairly when enforcing its policies.

In a 2018 interview with CNN, founder and then-CEO Jack Dorsey said the company does “not look at content regarding political viewpoint or ideology. We look at behavior.”‘

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‘Stranger Way of Life’ Director Reveals Little Sneak Peek

Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash

Filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar offers a new sneak peak of the upcoming queer western, Stranger Way of Life.

In a recent episode of Dua Lipa’s podcast, At Your Service, the filmmaker said the 30-minute short has “the kind of dialogue that I don’t think a Western film has ever captured between two men.” 

“This is a queer Western in the sense that there are two men, and they love each other,” Almodóvar elaborated in an interview with Lipa. “And they behave in that situation in an opposite way.” 

The film follows two men who reunite after 25 years of not seeing each other. Also starring Ethan Hawke as Sheriff Jake and Pedro Pascal as Gunslinger Silva.

“One of them travels through the desert to find the other,” Almodóvar said in a June interview with IndieWire. “There will be a showdown between them. But really, the story is very intimate.” 

Stranger Way of Life also explores some of the genre’s key tropes.

“It’s about masculinity in that deep sense because the Western is a male genre,” Almodóvar stated on the podcast. “It has the gunslinger. It has the ranch. And it has the sheriff. It has the town. It has the showdown.” 

Although the genre has long had a queer subtext, it is only recently that Westerns have gained prominence. This genre consists of movies such as Brokeback Mountain (2005) and Power of the Dog (2021).

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Stranger Way of Life: Genre and Key Tropes

However, both films drew criticism from particularly aged cowboys. For example, Sam Elliot openly criticized Jane Champion’s The Power of the Dog for its homoerotic scenes. However, he later apologized for his statements.

Almodóvar shared that he’ll uncover the final work at the Cannes Film Festival in May. The film is still in the process of editing. 

“It’s something very different,” he shared with Lipa. “I mean, it’s another genre that I’ve never done before.” 

Furthermore, he said Pascal and Hawke served as the perfect cowboys for the film. 

“I’m very happy with both of them,” he said. 

Stranger Way of Life also stars Manu Rios, Jose Condessa, Jason Fernandez, Sara Salamo, Erenice Lohan, Pedro Casablanca, and George Steane. 

In August 2022, principal photography happened in Southern Spain – in the Tabernas Desert section of Almeria. Almodóvar filmed the movie in his own production company El Deseo in collaboration with Saint Laurent

Moreover, SL head designer Anthony Vaccarello served as associate producer and costume designer. 

Additionally, the film’s title is the same as an old Portuguese fado tune by Amalia Rodrigues.

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‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ Releases Trailer

The Super Mario Bros. Movie previously revealed actors who would play the characters from the film. It would see Chris Pratt as the main character, Charlie Day as Luigi, Keegan-Michael Key as Toad, and Jack Black as Bowser.

Now the newest trailer introduces Seth Rogen as Donkey Kong and Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach. It also shows the start of a Mario Kart-style race.

The last clip starts with a race between Mario and Kong in a stadium. Plus, they showed it off during a virtual Nintendo Direct presentation on Tuesday.

Although Mario cheers himself up with a “Let’s go!” the gorilla still beats him. The trailer also offers a glimpse of Peach’s castle as she prepares to race against Bowser. Then she discovers Mario in his costume.

Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic are the directors of The Super Mario Bros. Film. Jelenic previously directed Teen Titans Go! To the Movies.

The film chronicles Bowser as he claims to be an unseen superstar. He then laughs evilly as Mario and his friends fight to end their plans for world domination.

In addition, the film sees Fred Armisen’s Cranky Kong, Kevin Michael Richardson’s Kamek, Sebastian Maniscalo’s Spike, and Charles Martinet as several characters. Notably, Martinet voiced Mario and Luigi in the games. 

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Mario Bros. 

Ahead of Tuesday’s trailer, the production launched a teaser poster. Also, it shows a stained glass window where Peach is in his castle with an empty throne. It’s a rather hilarious reference to the fact that the princess is often outside her castle in the Mario game.

“I hope that you enjoyed the movie as much as I enjoyed working on it,” Taylor-Joy stated in the Nintendo Direct. 

Rogen added: “For my entire life, I have been a fan of the worlds created by Mitamoto-san.” 

“In fact, my dog is named Zelda. Ever since I was a kid playing Playchoice 10, I remember playing Marios Bros. and thinking: ‘If they ever make a movie of this, I better be in it.’ And I’m happy today that dream came true.” 

Pratt butted in the conversion sharing his encounter with the Mario Bros.

“Growing up, man, I spend hours of my life stomping Koopas in the original Mario Bros. That dream, like all dreams, faces on critical challenge as in the film: I must face off against an utterly ruthless scene stealer,” he said. 

“Every great hero needs a diabolical enemy. And I promise you I could not have been paired with a more King of Koopas, Bowser, my friend, the great and hilarious, supremely talented Jack Black!” 

The Super Mario Bros. Movie premieres in theaters on April 7, 2023.

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Bambi is Thirsty for Revenge in ‘Bambi: The Reckoning’

Hunters must hurry. A new Grand Prince of the Forest is coming. And he brings the sting of murder.

In the 80 years of their existence, Bambi and his woodland companions Thumper and Flower have maintained a good image since the release of the original film in 1942.

But currently, the once-sweet deer is turning to the dark side in the upcoming film Bambi: The Reckoning, EW stated. The news first came from horror site Dread Central.

The bloody adaptation of Felix Salten’s 1923 novel Bambi begins filming in January. The film is from ITN Studios and Jagged Edge Productions, directed by filmmaker Scott Jeffrey.

Rhys Frake-Waterfield continues to shed childhood nostalgia blood while serving as the film’s producer. Most notably, Frake-Waterfield directs the notorious horror twist of another teen movie, Winnie-The-Pooh: Blood and Honey.

“The film will be an incredibly dark retelling of the 1928 story we all know and love,” Jeffrey said in an interview with the outlet. “Finding inspiration from the design used in Netflix’s The Ritual, Bambi will be a vicious killing machine that lurks in the wilderness. Prepare for Bambi on rabies!”

Although the production did not reveal any other plot details, it is common knowledge that Bambi was traumatized by the death of his mother. In the Disney cartoon, a hunter killed Bambi’s mother.

That plot brings vengeance with it. And honestly, the more we think about it, the more it makes sense. Do it, Bambi!

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Disney Gets Dark

Meanwhile, The Ritual was famous for its huge, spindly-looking creatures. It indicates that this newer version of Bambi won’t look cute and won’t be your average deer exploring the woods.

If Bambi looked that terrifying, chills go down our spine to think what Thumper would look like. 

And if you wonder how it’s possible, here is the answer. Bambi – like Winnie-the-Pooh – passed the public domain this year. Public domain enables other creators to use the characters however they want, family-friendly or gory. 

As you can see, Pooh slashes his victims with a sledgehammer. 

Bambi: The Reckoning is among the series of newly adapted childhood films. Previously, Disney made a photorealistic adaptation of their original movies. It includes The Lion King in 2019 and The Jungle Book in 2016.

But, frankly, seeing a realistic portrayal of Bambi’s mom’s death may make it a gory movie. 

The First Bambi

The first Bambi saw David Hand as director and Walt Disney as producer. 

Furthermore, the film bagged three nominations for the Academy Awards. It includes Best Sound (Sam Slyfield), Best Song (“Love is a Song” by Donald Novis), and Original Music Score. 

The American Film Institute in June 2008 introduced its list of “10 Top 10” – the greatest ten films in every ten classic American film genres. And the results came after surveying more than 1,500 individuals from the creative community. Bambi ranked third in animation. 

Moreover, the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress admitted the film in December 2011 as being “culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant.”

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