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  • Tyler Perry Halts $800 Million Expansion of Atlanta Studio Upon Discovering AI Capabilities

    Tyler Perry in a file photograph. (Getty Images | Dia Dipasupil)

    Actor and producer Tyler Perry has made the decision to pause the planned $800 million expansion of his Atlanta, Georgia, studio in response to the unveiling of OpenAI’s latest artificial intelligence (AI) creation, Sora. Perry expressed his concern during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, stating that witnessing Sora’s ability to generate video imagery from text prompts was alarming.

    The expansion, which was set to include 12 additional sound stages, has been put “currently and indefinitely on hold,” Perry revealed. This decision comes from Perry’s realization of the potential disruptive impact Sora could have on filmmaking practices. He envisions a future where traditional location shoots and elaborate set constructions may become obsolete, fundamentally altering the creative process.

    Reflecting on his discovery of Sora’s capabilities, Perry expressed shock at the technology’s potential implications: “I had gotten word over the last year or so that this was coming, but I had no idea until I saw recently the demonstrations of what it’s able to do. It’s shocking to me.”

    Perry elaborated on how Sora could revolutionize filmmaking, allowing for the creation of scenes set in diverse environments with just text prompts. While acknowledging the cost-saving potential, Perry voiced concerns about the impact on jobs within the industry, recognizing the far-reaching effects it could have on various roles, from actors to crew members.

    His decision to halt the studio expansion reflects broader industry sentiments about grappling with the disruptive force of AI technologies. Perry emphasized the need for collective action within the industry to adapt and implement safeguards to protect jobs and livelihoods. He called for unity in addressing these challenges, both within the entertainment industry and in governmental bodies like Congress.

    OpenAI’s unveiling of Sora on Feb. 15 represents a significant step into Hollywood for the technology company under the leadership of Sam Altman. The system demonstrates the ability to produce high-quality videos with complex scenes and characters based on text prompts. While demonstrations of Sora’s capabilities have been impressive, AI researcher Gary Marcus notes that there are still limitations, particularly in terms of consistency and quality for high-production-value projects.

    Concerns about job displacement due to AI advancements are mounting within the entertainment industry. Concept artist Karla Ortiz warned of potential devastation to the labor force, particularly in fields like concept art and visual effects (VFX). A recent study revealed that three-fourths of industry leaders surveyed believed AI tools would lead to job elimination or reduction within the next three years, affecting thousands of positions.

    Despite the potential benefits of AI in filmmaking, challenges remain, including legal issues surrounding copyright and intellectual property rights for AI-generated content. The widespread adoption of AI tools will require careful consideration and collaboration to ensure a balanced approach that supports innovation while protecting jobs and creative rights within the industry.

  • Alan Ritchson Attributes His Survival Through Mental Health Battles to God

    The actor emphasized that cultivating a genuine connection with God has been instrumental in his healing journey.

    Alan Ritchson attends the Los Angeles special screening of Prime Video series “Reacher” Season 2 at the Culver Theater in Culver City, Calif., on Dec. 13, 2023. (David Livingston/Getty Images)


    Alan Ritchson, known for his roles in Prime Video’s “Reacher” and notable films like “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” and “Fast X,” recently shared his journey of mental health struggles and faith. Despite his success, Ritchson has been candid about the challenges he faced.

    In a conversation with The Christian Post, Ritchson discussed how his faith played a crucial role in his healing journey after a suicide attempt. He emphasized the importance of serving others and building a genuine relationship with God.

    Raised in a Catholic household, Ritchson reflected on a pivotal moment during a podcast episode with Christian Huff. He described experiencing a midlife crisis, grappling with marital issues, fame’s toxicity, and career-related stress. Despite feeling distant from God, he realized that divine presence never waned.

    Transitioning through this period wasn’t easy. Ritchson battled emotions like anger and shame but committed to daily prayer and scripture reading. He recounted moments of despair when he felt God’s presence most intensely, leading to a transformation.

    Today, Ritchson’s Christian faith guides his life. He launched the YouTube channel “InstaChurch,” sharing uplifting content on various topics anchored in faith. Open about his struggles with addiction, depression, and bipolar disorder, he believes in the power of shared experiences to foster connection and healing.

    Ritchson hopes his openness encourages others to share their stories, believing that vulnerability leads to deeper connections and empathy. He sees it as a collective responsibility to nurture such conversations, fostering understanding and support.

  • Vocalist Renounces Prior Drug Usage Referenced in Chart-Topping Tune

    Mike Posner, the American singer, renounced both illegal substance use and materialism.

    Mike Posner attends ESPN And CFP’s Allstate Party At The Playoff Event at The Majestic Downtown in Los Angeles, Calif., on Jan. 7, 2023. (Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)



    When Mike Posner, the American singer, spoke out against illicit drug use and materialism last week, experts in addiction and publicity welcomed the move but questioned why it took the 36-year-old so long to address substance abuse openly.

    In his 2015 hit song “I Took a Pill in Ibiza,” Posner’s lyrics depicted a narrative involving alcohol consumption at an Avicii concert, accepting a pill from a stranger, and consuming it. Avicii, a successful Swedish DJ and producer, collaborated with Posner on another song titled “Stay with You.”

    The track soared to the top of European music charts and reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2016. However, nearly a decade later, Posner has undergone a significant transformation, while Avicii tragically passed away by suicide at the age of 28 in 2018.

    Reflecting on Posner’s recent revelations, Benjamin Dobbs, founder of T.R.U.E. Addiction & Behavioral Health, expressed a wish that Posner had felt empowered to speak out earlier, recognizing the potential positive impact on others.

    Dr. Justin Jacques (courtesy of Dr. Justin Jacques)

    Posner’s recent social media posts indicate remorse for past behaviors glorifying materialism and hedonism. He now drives a Toyota 4Runner, has donated his Air Jordan basketball shoe collection, and speaks of a newfound sense of self-worth and self-love.

    However, acknowledging past mistakes may pose challenges, potentially alienating fans who are not ready to abandon a party-centric lifestyle. David Triana, director of public relations at Empathy First Media, suggests that Posner’s shift in messaging could alienate some fans while attracting a new audience.

    A 2022 study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration highlighted the prevalence of alcohol and drug use disorders in the United States, underscoring the importance of addressing substance abuse issues openly.

    Posner’s admission about the ecstasy pill referenced in his song reflects a journey of personal growth and redemption. Dr. Justin Jacques, a licensed professional counselor, suggests that peer pressure and low self-esteem often contribute to substance abuse, with shame about past behavior serving as a common consequence.

    Posner’s current stance prioritizes self-worth over external validation, signaling a shift towards a healthier mindset. While some speculate on the motivations behind Posner’s public statements, the dangers of substance misuse, particularly those involving drugs like fentanyl, remain a stark reality.

    With fentanyl-related deaths on the rise, the potential consequences of substance use are more severe than ever. While Posner’s journey towards self-discovery and sobriety is commendable, the challenges of overcoming past mistakes and societal pressures remain significant.

  • Katy Perry shares glimpses from Taylor Swift’s concert, featuring a performance of ‘Bad Blood’

    Katy Perry and Taylor Swift on Perry's Instagram this week.
    Katy Perry and Taylor Swift on Perry’s Instagram this week. 
    From Katy Perry [CNN ]

    Katy Perry captures moments from Taylor Swift’s concert, including ‘Bad Blood’ performance

    Katy Perry attended one of Taylor Swift’s recent “Eras Tour” concerts in Australia, and she shared her experience on her Instagram page. Perry appeared to be enjoying herself alongside her famous friend Rita Ora. She posted short video clips from two songs and took selfies with both Ora and Swift.

    One notable video clip Perry included was from Swift’s performance of “Bad Blood,” a song that has long been associated with rumors of a feud between the two artists. In the snippet, Perry films Swift on stage and then turns the camera on herself, zooming in with a faux-shocked expression.

    This isn’t the first time Swift and Perry have indirectly addressed their past issues. Perry released a song called “Swish Swish” in 2017, which many believed was a response to Swift’s initial track. However, any perceived animosity between them is now in the past, especially after Perry appeared in Swift’s music video for the 2019 hit single “You Need to Calm Down.”

    In the video, Perry and Swift are seen reuniting while wearing silly burger and fries costumes. Perry’s Instagram post captioned the sweet moment, stating, “got to see an old friend shine tonight.”

    It’s clear that the relationship between Perry and Swift has evolved positively over time, with any previous tension being resolved.

  • Tyler Perry pauses £630m film studio construction due to concerns over AI

    Tyler Perry
    Tyler Perry is a TV and film giant with his own studio complex in Atlanta [GETTY IMAGES]

    Acclaimed US film and TV mogul Tyler Perry delays $800m (£630m) expansion of his studio due to apprehensions surrounding emerging AI technology.’

    Tyler Perry, a respected figure in the film and TV industry, has made the decision to postpone the planned expansion of his Atlanta studio by adding 12 sound stages. His concerns stem from the recent introduction of OpenAI’s video generator, Sora.

    Expressing his worries, Perry, aged 54, fears that the advancement of artificial intelligence will result in a significant loss of jobs within the film industry. In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, he described the capabilities of Sora as “shocking.”

    As a result of witnessing the demonstrations and realizing the extent of Sora’s capabilities, Perry has decided to halt all progress on the expansion plans, emphasizing that the decision is indefinite.

    While he had heard about the development of this technology over the past year, it was not until recently that he truly comprehended its potential impact. Perry expressed his astonishment at what he had observed, stating, “It’s shocking to me.”

    It’s important to note that Sora, created by the same company responsible for ChatGPT, has been released in a limited manner this month and is not yet available for public use.

    Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey
    Perry works closely with Oprah Winfrey [GETTY IMAGES]

    OpenAI’s CEO engaged with their followers on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), accepting requests and using them to create videos that showcased the remarkable capabilities of the technology.

    Despite having limited resources and only a few text prompts to work with, the AI system was able to generate realistic video content, reaching up to one minute in duration. This demonstration highlighted the impressive potential of the technology in generating lifelike footage.

    ‘Very, very concerned’

    Perry expressed astonishment at the capabilities of technology, suggesting that it could potentially render traveling to locations and constructing physical sets unnecessary. He found it surprising that he could accomplish tasks using a computer from the comfort of an office. However, he also voiced concerns about the potential job losses this technological advancement could entail, particularly for actors, editors, sound specialists, and transporters. Perry emphasized his worry for the livelihoods of those involved in the industry.

    Perry shared his personal experience of using AI on set to portray an older version of himself in a scene, which eliminated the need for hours of aging makeup. The use of AI in the industry has already sparked discussions and was a significant point of contention during the 2023 Hollywood strikes. Writers expressed concerns about their jobs being replaced by AI, while actors worried about being substituted on set by the technology.

    Although an agreement was eventually reached between studios and Hollywood workers, Perry believes that the entire industry needs to unite to safeguard people’s livelihoods. He emphasized the necessity for collective action and collaboration to protect the future of the industry, as it undergoes rapid transformations right before everyone’s eyes. Perry’s call was for all stakeholders to come together and address the challenges posed by advancing technology.

  • Avatar: The Last Airbender garners diverse feedback from critics

    (L-R) Ian Ousley, Gordon Cormier, Kiawentiio and Dallas Liu. AVATAR
    Ian Ousley, Gordon Cormier, Kiawentiio and Dallas Liu at The Last Airbender premiere [GETTY IMAGES]

    Netflix’s latest live-action release, Avatar: The Last Airbender, elicits a range of critical opinions.’

    The eight-part series serves as a reinterpretation of the beloved animated fantasy series of the same name originally created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko.

    Although both DiMartino and Konietzko initially joined forces with Netflix for the live-action adaptation, they departed from the project before its completion.

    Regrettably, the 2024 remake, helmed by Albert Kim, has been received with mixed reviews. Variety described it as a “beautifully crafted disappointment.”

    Critic Aramide Tinubu acknowledged that the series managed to avoid the flaws of another adaptation, the 2010 film The Last Airbender directed by M. Night Shyamalan. However, Tinubu noted that fans may have preferred if Netflix had left DiMartino and Konietzko’s original masterpiece untouched.

    Tinubu further commented that while the show’s visuals and the inclusion of Asian and Indigenous actors added authenticity to the series, the majority of the cast’s performances fell short when it came to effectively conveying the weight of the narrative. Many portrayals lacked the necessary depth of emotion required to carry a show that delves into themes of genocide, war, and totalitarianism.

    It is important to note that the concerns raised about the remake are separate from the success of the original Avatar film, which remains the highest-grossing film ever made. Despite the mixed reception, the series still holds appeal for fantasy enthusiasts.

    Gordon Cormier
    Canadian actor Gordon Cormier plays lead character Aang [GETTY IMAGES]

    Without revealing too much, the series follows a captivating premise set in a world divided into four distinct kingdoms, each associated with the elements of fire, earth, water, and air. In these kingdoms, individuals known as “benders” possess the ability to manipulate and wield these elements as a form of extraordinary power.

    The story revolves around the main characters, including 12-year-old Aang portrayed by Gordon Cormier, who joins forces with 14-year-old Katara (Kiawentiio) and her older brother Sokka (Ian Ousley) on a mission to save their respective kingdoms.

    Jack Seale from The Guardian offered a more positive perspective, assigning the series a commendable four-star rating. Seale praised the vibrant landscapes, the awe-inspiring presence of a colossal six-legged flying bison that gracefully transports characters through the clouds, and the impressive performances delivered by the youthful cast.

    Seale expressed confidence in the Airbender franchise, suggesting that this revival marks just the beginning of its journey, implying that there is more to come from this captivating world.

    ‘Rather drab and thinly sketched’

    However, Empire’s Kambole Campbell offered a more critical perspective, granting the series a modest two-star rating. Campbell expressed disappointment that the show veered away from the original’s animated charm and dynamic presentation, opting instead for a more serious and somber fantasy approach. According to Campbell, the series presents a lackluster and thinly developed spin on familiar themes of oppression and rebellion. Furthermore, despite each episode having an hour-long duration, Campbell found the show to be simultaneously too long and too short, leaving an unsatisfying impression.

    Anita Singh from The Telegraph provided a middling review, awarding the series a three out of five-star rating. Singh described it as solid entertainment, characterized by fast-paced action, well-executed fight scenes, and commendable performances, all made possible by Netflix’s substantial budget. However, Singh cautioned against expecting subtlety, as the series targets a younger audience, resulting in broadly drawn characters and plotlines. Singh shared that she watched the series with her own children, who provided their own review, stating that it was good but not on par with SpongeBob SquarePants.

    It’s important to consider the diverse range of opinions expressed by critics, highlighting both positive and negative aspects of the series, ultimately leaving room for individual interpretation and preferences.

    ‘The acting is wooden’

    (L-R) Actors Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Leung, Kiawentiio, Gordon Cormier, Ian Ousley, Dallas Liu and Elizabeth Yu.
    (L-R) Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, Daniel Dae Kim, Ken Leung, Kiawentiio, Gordon Cormier, Ian Ousley, Dallas Liu and Elizabeth Yu at the show’s premiere [GETTY IMAGES]

    While the majority of reviews have found some positive aspects in the show, the same cannot be said for Vulture’s Jackson McHenry’s review. McHenry expressed numerous criticisms, stating that the live-action series had significant flaws right from the start. He highlighted wooden acting, lackluster writing, garish costumes, an annoyingly monotonous score, and a visual appearance that seemed dull and murky. McHenry found the hour-long premiere to be particularly unexciting and tedious, struggling to maintain interest and lacking the enthusiasm to continue watching the remaining seven episodes. He likened the experience to receiving a mundane homework assignment, which he considered an unfortunate fate for a series based on a beloved Nickelodeon kids’ cartoon.

    On the other hand, Paul Tassi of Forbes took a more positive stance. Tassi acknowledged that the series was not on par with its animated predecessor, but praised the evident passion and love displayed by the cast and crew towards the source material. He likened the endeavor to painting the Mona Lisa with colored pencils—while it may be impressive in its own right, it is a different medium that cannot match the original masterpiece. Despite skepticism, including his own as a fan of the original series, Tassi admitted that Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender surpassed his expectations, and by the end, he genuinely enjoyed it.

    It’s evident that opinions regarding the series vary, with some reviewers highlighting significant flaws and dullness, while others acknowledge the dedication of the production team and find enjoyment in the show despite its differences from the animated series.

  • Hundreds Pay Tribute: Funeral Held for Marathon Star Kiptum in Kenya

    The 24-Year-Old, Who Set World Record in Chicago in October, Dies in Car Accident This Month.

    Family members surround the coffin of Kenya's marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum, who died in a road accident, during his funeral in Chepkorio on February 23, 2024 [Monicah Mwangi/Reuters]
    Family members surround the coffin of Kenya’s marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum, who died in a road accident, during his funeral in Chepkorio on February 23, 2024 [Monicah Mwangi/Reuters]

    Marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum, whose aspirations of breaking the race’s two-hour barrier were tragically cut short by a fatal car crash earlier this month, was honored for his exceptional talent and modesty during a funeral in western Kenya.

    The service, held on Friday in his hometown of Chepkorio in the Rift Valley, drew hundreds of mourners, including prominent political and sports figures such as President William Ruto and World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.

    Despite being only 24 years old, Kiptum had participated in just three international marathons, each ranking among the top seven fastest times ever recorded. His remarkable achievement came in Chicago last October, where he set the world record, clocking in at two hours and 35 seconds, surpassing his compatriot Eliud Kipchoge’s mark by 34 seconds.

    Anglican Bishop Paul Korir, leading the service, highlighted Kiptum’s humility and deep connections to the local community, where he had worked as a livestock herder and trained as an electrician before pursuing a career in professional running.

    “Despite mingling with the elite, he remained grounded and often frequented the local pool hall in Chepkorio,” Korir reflected.

    His untimely passing has sent shockwaves through Kenya and the broader athletics community.

    “He was a true luminary whose trajectory promised greatness,” remarked Jack Tuwei, president of Athletics Kenya. “All signs pointed to his eventual conquest of the two-hour milestone.”

    “Farewell, champion,” echoed the front-page headline of Kenya’s leading Daily Nation newspaper on Friday.

    A woman mourns after viewing Kiptum’s body [Reuters]
    A woman mourns after viewing Kiptum’s body [Reuters]

    At daybreak, mourners, among them Faith Kipyegon, the record holder in the 1,500 meters, began to arrive for the funeral. Some donned black T-shirts featuring a portrait of Kiptum on the front. They paid their respects to the deceased, with his body resting in a partially open casket on a red carpet, accompanied by hymns sung by a choir.

    Outside the venue, numerous villagers congregated, watching the service unfold on four large screens.

  • German Lawyers File Lawsuit Against Scholz, Accusing Him of Complicity in Gaza ‘Genocide’

    Palestinian Lawyers Lodge Criminal Complaint Against Chancellor and Senior Politicians, Alleging Complicity in ‘Genocide’

    German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, left, holds a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a visit to Tel Aviv [File: Maya Alleruzzo/Pool via Reuters]
    German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, left, holds a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a visit to Tel Aviv [File: Maya Alleruzzo/Pool via Reuters]

    In Berlin, Germany, a coalition of lawyers has lodged a criminal complaint with the German federal prosecutor, targeting high-ranking German officials, notably Chancellor Olaf Scholz, on charges of “aiding and abetting” the alleged genocide perpetrated by Israel in Gaza.

    The complaint extends to various members of the nation’s Federal Security Council, responsible for shaping national security strategies and sanctioning arms trade, formally submitted on a Friday.

    Alongside Scholz, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Economics Minister Robert Habeck, Finance Minister Christian Lindner, and other officials are implicated in the accusation.

    Ragab emphasized, “As Palestinians in the diaspora, we refuse to passively witness the genocide unfolding against our families and our people. We are committed to utilizing every available means to address this injustice. Today, our goal is to hold the German government accountable for its involvement in the Gaza genocide.”

    Backing the case, civil society organizations such as the European Legal Support Center, the Palestine Institute for Public Diplomacy, and the UK-based Law for Palestine issued a collective statement. They highlighted, “The German state has notably extended substantial political and material support to Israel in its aggression against the Gaza Strip and the Palestinian population.”

    Alexander Gorski, a lawyer backing the case, recognized, “Considering the legal framework and the political dynamics in Germany, this case presents significant challenges.”

    He emphasized to Al Jazeera, “However, we perceive it as our duty as legal professionals to take action. The global dissemination of the genocide’s evidence is undeniable. Yet, despite this, the Israeli government continues to garner support from other nations and receives weaponry.”

    After the October 7 attacks by Hamas, during which 1,139 people were killed in southern Israel, the Israeli government retaliated with a military campaign in Gaza that has to date killed more than 29,000 Palestinians, the majority of them women and children.

  • 7 ChatGPT Prompts to Apply Taylor Swift’s Rules for Success

    Introduction

    Taylor Swift is not only a talented singer-songwriter but also a successful entrepreneur and role model for many. Her journey to success is filled with valuable lessons that can be applied to various aspects of life, including the world of ChatGPT. In this blog post, we will explore seven ChatGPT prompts inspired by Taylor Swift’s rules for success.

    1. Embrace Change and Adaptability

    Taylor Swift has never been afraid to reinvent herself and adapt to changing times. Similarly, in the world of ChatGPT, it is important to embrace change and adaptability. Prompt: “How can ChatGPT adapt to different user preferences and provide personalized responses?”

    2. Emphasize Authenticity

    Authenticity is a key aspect of Taylor Swift’s success. She connects with her audience by staying true to herself and sharing personal experiences. In ChatGPT, authenticity can be emphasized by encouraging prompts that promote genuine conversations. Prompt: “Tell me about a time when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.”

    3. Foster Collaboration

    Taylor Swift has collaborated with various artists throughout her career, creating unique and successful projects. Similarly, ChatGPT can benefit from collaboration by encouraging prompts that involve multiple users or prompt responses that build on each other. Prompt: “Create a story together with another user, taking turns in adding a sentence.”

    4. Embrace Continuous Learning

    Taylor Swift has consistently evolved and grown as an artist, constantly learning and improving her craft. In ChatGPT, continuous learning can be encouraged by prompts that promote knowledge sharing and exploration. Prompt: “What is something interesting you recently learned and would like to share?”

    5. Embrace Resilience

    Taylor Swift has faced numerous challenges and setbacks throughout her career but has always bounced back stronger. In ChatGPT, resilience can be emphasized by prompts that encourage users to share stories of overcoming adversity. Prompt: “Tell me about a time when you faced a setback and how you persevered.”

    6. Prioritize User Experience

    Taylor Swift’s success can be attributed, in part, to her ability to connect with her audience and prioritize their experience. In ChatGPT, user experience can be prioritized by prompts that encourage feedback and suggestions for improvement. Prompt: “How can ChatGPT better understand and respond to user needs?”

    7. Encourage Creativity

    Taylor Swift’s creativity knows no bounds, as she constantly pushes the boundaries of her art. In ChatGPT, creativity can be encouraged by prompts that inspire users to think outside the box and come up with unique ideas or solutions. Prompt: “Imagine you have unlimited resources. What would you create or accomplish?”

    Conclusion

    Taylor Swift’s rules for success can be applied to various aspects of life, including the world of ChatGPT. By embracing change, emphasizing authenticity, fostering collaboration, embracing continuous learning, embracing resilience, prioritizing user experience, and encouraging creativity, ChatGPT can become an even more powerful tool for communication and engagement. Let Taylor Swift’s success story inspire us to make the most of our ChatGPT interactions.

  • Mia McKenna-Bruce: Kent Actor Expresses Surprise at Bafta Win

    Mia McKenna-Bruce holding her EE Rising Star Bafta award
    Mia McKenna-Bruce won the only Bafta award chosen by the public [ GETTY IMAGES]

    Mia McKenna-Bruce, a talented 26-year-old actor from Kent, wins the prestigious EE Rising Star Award at the Baftas.

    Mia McKenna-Bruce, acclaimed for her portrayal of Tara in Molly Manning Walker’s thought-provoking film How to Have Sex, was awarded the esteemed Bafta chosen by the public during Sunday’s event.

    Expressing her genuine astonishment, Miss McKenna-Bruce humbly described the win as a “complete surprise.” Overwhelmed with gratitude, she conveyed her desire to embrace and convey appreciation to each individual who cast their vote in her favor.

    Amongst a noteworthy lineup including Phoebe Dynevor, Ayo Edebiri, Jacob Elordi, and Sophie Wilde, Miss McKenna-Bruce emerged victorious, earning recognition for her remarkable performance in How to Have Sex. The film sensitively explores themes of sexual consent within the context of a coming-of-age narrative, set against the backdrop of a post-GCSEs holiday in Malia, on the picturesque Greek island of Crete.

    In her heartfelt response, she expressed her hope that this win would foster ongoing conversations around the film, further promoting awareness and understanding of its important subject matter.

    ‘Absolutely petrified’

    As Mia McKenna-Bruce took the stage at the Royal Festival Hall in London to accept her well-deserved award, she was overwhelmed with emotions, describing the experience as mind-blowing.

    Grateful and filled with appreciation, clutching her first Bafta award, Miss McKenna-Bruce expressed heartfelt thanks to her family for their unwavering belief in her talent, starting from a young age. Although she acknowledged that she could never fully repay them for their support, she considered this achievement as a meaningful starting point.

    In an interview with BBC Radio Kent, the actor candidly shared her initial apprehension, confessing to feeling petrified at the thought of speaking in front of esteemed figures like Christopher Nolan. Reflecting on her journey, she fondly recalled her first acting job in Billy Elliot at the tender age of eight. She mentioned how her father would faithfully stand at the back of the theater, attending most shows to watch her perform.

    Miss McKenna-Bruce expressed her plans to celebrate this momentous win with her loved ones, cherishing the joyous occasion alongside them, and indulging in a takeaway meal, creating treasured memories together.