Actor Femi Branch has voiced his frustration over the growing trend of cinemas promoting one film at the expense of others. His concerns came to light during a meet-and-greet event for Toyin Abraham’s latest movie, Alakada: Bad and Bougie, where he observed some troubling practices.

In a video, Branch revealed that cinema staff often wear promotional T-shirts for a specific film, remove media cards for other movies from their counters, and replace them with those for the promoted film. He also alleged that staff members encourage patrons to watch certain movies, even suggesting they are better than the films the customers originally intended to see.

Branch stressed that cinemas should not be in the business of dictating what people choose to watch. He warned those engaging in such practices to cease, as it creates division within the industry. The actor called for a more level playing field for all producers, urging cinemas to maintain fairness and transparency in their promotional efforts.

This comes after Toyin Abraham, actress and producer, also spoke out about the challenges film owners face in cinemas. She highlighted how some fans expect gifts in exchange for watching her movie, further skewing the playing field for producers who are unable to afford such incentives.

Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has firmly rejected comparisons to Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, stating, “I’m not Fela, I’m BIG7.” His comments came as part of a broader discussion on Instagram about staying true to oneself and promoting authenticity as the year draws to a close.

In his post, the self-proclaimed “African Giant” emphasized that his focus is on “positivity, peace, and prosperity,” but also delivered a bold message with the declaration, “Honestly, I’d rather kill you than die for you.”

Burna Boy took the opportunity to address what he perceives as a culture of dishonesty in society. He called out individuals he believes have been dishonest about their wealth and status, saying, “If you ever lied about buying Sujimoto’s house in Banana Island when you only rented it, do better in 2025. If you ever lied about Elele’s house being yours, do better in 2025.”

He continued, urging others to be more transparent: “If you have an aftermarket ‘rainbow Daytona,’ please stop telling people it’s real. Do better in 2025.” The artist didn’t hold back, pushing for a culture of honesty in the year ahead, stating, “It should be a criminal offence to tell as many lies as certain men. The list can go on and on.”

Burna Boy also hinted at a potential appearance on popular Nigerian TV host Ebuka Obi-Uchendu’s show, writing, “Ebuka still dey do all those interviews? I no like interview at all, but I go like run 1.”

Olivia Hussey, renowned for her portrayal of Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 Romeo and Juliet, passed away on Friday at the age of 73, her family announced. Hussey, who won a Golden Globe for her role at just 15, was celebrated for her warmth and kindness, according to a statement from her family.

Born in Buenos Aires, she moved to London at age seven and trained at the Italia Conti drama school. Hussey went on to star in other notable films, including Black Christmas (1974) and Death on the Nile(1978).

In 2023, she and co-star Leonard Whiting sued the studio over a controversial nude scene in Romeo and Juliet, alleging child abuse. The lawsuit was dismissed, though Hussey maintained in earlier interviews that the scene had been filmed tastefully.

Hussey is survived by her husband, David Eisley, their three children, and a grandchild.