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bitchy | A federal judge dismissed Drake’s lawsuit against UMG, a rap battle isn’t ‘against the law’
Celebrity News

bitchy | A federal judge dismissed Drake’s lawsuit against UMG, a rap battle isn’t ‘against the law’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Last year, Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s years-long simmering beef came to a boil. First it was Kendrick’s verse on Future & Metro’s “Like That.” Then Drake spent weeks trying to goad Kendrick into a rap battle. Kendrick finally responded, dropping four songs in less than a week. The last two songs, “Meet the Grahams” and “Not Like Us” came out within 24 hours, and they were perfectly executed disses. “Not Like Us” became the song of the year (literally, it won the Grammy for SOTY) and Kendrick even performed “Not Like Us” and “Euphoria” during the Super Bowl Halftime. Drake has not been the same since. Instead of just licking his wounds, taking the L like a man and going away for a year, Drake decided to make a horse’s ass out of himself in like twenty different ways. Notably, Drake sued UMG – his label, and the label which has a licensing deal with Kendrick’s pgLang. In his lawsuit, Drake claimed that UMG *wanted* Kendrick to beat him in the rap battle, and UMG helped Kendrick in some way which Drake could never prove. Well, long story short, a judge just threw out Drake’s lawsuit. Hahahaha LOSER.

A federal judge on Thursday (Oct. 9) dismissed Drake’s defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group over Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” ruling that a “war of words” during a “heated rap battle” did not violate the law.

Drake’s case, filed earlier this year, claimed that UMG defamed him by releasing Lamar’s scathing diss track, which tarred his arch-rival as a “certified pedophile.” He believed that millions of people took that lyric literally, severely harming his reputation. But just ten months later, Judge Jeannette Vargas granted UMG’s motion to dismiss the case at the outset – ruling that Kendrick’s insulting lyrics were the kind of “hyperbole” that cannot be defamatory because listeners would not think they were statements of fact.

“The artists’ seven-track rap battle was a ‘war of words’ that was the subject of substantial media scrutiny and online discourse,” the judge wrote. “Although the accusation that plaintiff is a pedophile is certainly a serious one, the broader context of a heated rap battle, with incendiary language and offensive accusations hurled by both participants, would not incline the reasonable listener to believe that ‘Not Like Us’ imparts verifiable facts about plaintiff.”

The ruling marks an abrupt end to a legal battle that stunned the music industry. Few expected a rapper to respond to a diss track with a lawsuit – a move that drew ridicule in the hip hop world and condemnation from legal scholars. Fewer still expected him to file it against UMG, his longtime record label and the biggest music company in the world.

Drake’s attorneys can appeal the ruling to a federal appeals court. His attorneys did not immediately return a request for comment. A spokesman for UMG also did not immediately return a request for comment.

[From Billboard]

While I didn’t follow the minute details of this lawsuit, I saw enough to say that UMG actually took the right position at the start of the beef. UMG’s management basically chose to sit on the sidelines and let the rap battle play out. They didn’t choose sides – they just didn’t “help” Drake, which is why he sued them. He’s spent the past decade getting high from his own supply, and he thought his label would tip the scale in his favor. All of the things he accused UMG of – without evidence, mind you – was projection, I believe. Drake thought UMG was doing all of that against him, because he was used to UMG propping him up.

Here’s the “Not Like Us” video again. It has over 403 million views. The YT video of just the song (with Megan’s Law markers over Drake’s house) has over 258 million views.

Photos courtesy of Backgrid, Avalon Red, Drake’s IG. Screencaps courtesy of the “NLU” video and the NFL/Super Bowl.

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Adil Hussain, Vishal Mishra, Armaan Malik mourn Zubeen Garg’s sudden demise
Bollywood

Judge tosses out Drake’s defamation lawsuit against label over Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Published on: Oct 10, 2025 02:47 am IST

Judge tosses out Drake’s defamation lawsuit against label over Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

NEW YORK — A federal judge tossed out a defamation lawsuit that Drake brought against Universal Music Group on Thursday, ruling that lyrics branding the superstar as a pedophile in Kendrick Lamar’s dis track “Not Like Us” were opinion.

Judge tosses out Drake’s defamation lawsuit against label over Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

Judge Jeannette A. Vargas rejected the suit in a written opinion that began by citing “the vitriolic war of words” and saying the case arose “from perhaps the most infamous rap battle in the genre’s history.”

She said a reasonable listener could not have concluded that “Not Like Us” was conveying objective facts about Drake.

“Although the accusation that Plaintiff is a pedophile is certainly a serious one, the broader context of a heated rap battle, with incendiary language and offensive accusations hurled by both participants, would not incline the reasonable listener to believe that “Not Like Us” imparts verifiable facts about Plaintiff,” Vargas wrote.

Filed in January, the lawsuit alleged that UMG published and promoted the track even though it included false pedophilia allegations against Drake and suggested listeners should resort to vigilante justice.

The lawsuit also alleged that the track tarnished his reputation and decreased the value of his brand.

Universal Music Group, the parent record label for both artists, denied the allegations.

“From the outset, this suit was an affront to all artists and their creative expression and never should have seen the light of day,” UMG said in a statement. “We’re pleased with the court’s dismissal and look forward to continuing our work successfully promoting Drake’s music and investing in his career.”

Lamar was not named in the lawsuit.

There was no immediate response to mails sent to representatives for Drake seeking comment.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.

News / Entertainment / Music / Judge tosses out Drake’s defamation lawsuit against label over Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

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Spitting Image team say they're "baffled" by Paddington Bear lawsuit
TV & Streaming

Spitting Image team say they’re “baffled” by Paddington Bear lawsuit

by jummy84
written by jummy84

While most politicians and pop culture figures of the time took their puppet parodies (fairly) on the chin, the new revival of the veteran comedy show has ruffled someone’s feathers… or should we say fur.

Created by Al Murray and Matt Forde, the new Spitting Image revival, now available on YouTube, made headlines this week when it was revealed that StudioCanal, the French film and television production company behind the Paddington movies, and the Bond estate have filed a High Court complaint over copyright and design right concerns, following the depiction of the beloved bear.

“We’re baffled by that, to be honest,” says Murray. ‘If we were going to expect anything, it would be a hard stare from Paddington.”

Their radical reimagining of the sweet-natured bear sees Paddington as a foul-mouthed, crazy-eyed Pablo Escobar-esque parody, with a penchant for powder over marmalade sandwiches. He host’s the shows podcast ‘The Rest is Bullsh*t’, a parody of the Goalhanger ‘Rest is’ sphere, alongside an equally caricatured Prince Harry.

“If you’re looking for [podcast] hosts, you need two national treasures. There were the first names on the team sheet,” says Forde.

While his characterisation may be extreme, Forde and Murray insist it is only intended for purely comedic purposes.

“It’s the oldest thing in comedy,” explains Murray. “We’re not saying we’ve done anything particularly original. [Paddington] is normally presented as this very ‘goody-two-shoes’ character and we’ve flipped him over. It’s a very Spitting Image thing to do – to take someone and say ‘Hey, maybe they’re the opposite.’”

“I mean, they’ve fallen into a bear trap of their own making,” says Forde. “We’re getting tons more views as a result of the lawsuits publicity, so more people are watching this depiction of Paddington that they don’t want anyone to see.”

Is it potentially a case of miscommunication involving the ‘British sense of humour’?

“I mean taking the piss is a great British value, as is having a sense of humour about ourselves,” says Murray. “But there obviously has been a drift towards people who want to shut other people’s jokes up – and it’s weird, it seems like an attack on comedy really.”

“In my experience, people find you funny taking the p**s out of things, until you take the p**s out of something they like. Then they don’t find you funny anymore.”

But it’s the fact the call for legal action has come from fellow creatives that really surprises the pair.

“I would imagine that the people at StudioCanal who’ve come to this are the sorts of people who not long ago were pretty outraged by Jimmy Kimmel being pulled off air,” explains Murray. “If they’re sensitive, creative people that’s probably how they felt about it.”

“But they’re trying to do that to our absurdist, ridiculous Paddington and that leaves me scratching my head.”

Whilst they may see a funny side in the call for legal action, (“We are literally talking about a fictional bear and a puppet show!” exclaims Murray at one point) the pair recognise that the dispute over their depiction of Paddington highlights a wider conversation on freedom of speech in our current political climate.

“It’s terrifying that pressure can come from all sorts of different places,” says Forde. “I think the risk is that these kinds of authoritarian instincts exist on left and right.

“They exist in governments; they exist in corporations. We’re living in an era where politicians can get you taken off the air and the consequences of that – and it’s not just comedy – will close people in all sorts of other industries down.

“People need to be careful about thinking. ‘Well, I never liked Jimmy Kimmel anyway, so I’m fine with it’ because eventually, they will get round to you, and they will shut you up.

“Comedy is an easy first target because people don’t like being laughed at, but it’s not comedy that they have an issue with. It’s the freedom of speech.”

Their new YouTube show was born out of the success of their live theatre production – Idiots Assemble: Spitting Image The Musical created by Murray and Forde, alongside Sean Foley. It was during this run they realised the new medium of theatre, unlike TV, avoided outsider input in what content their show could cover.

“There was no one between us and the audience,” explains Murray, “That was what was brilliant about it.”

“As stand-ups we’re used to that,” agrees Forde, “You write it, you perform it and there is a purity in that. Once it filters through more layers, it becomes tamer, and I think in the modern era people want comedy like this to really pack a punch.”

Read more: Spitting Image 2025 is funny, filthy, forensic and, on YouTube, a force for good

Their YouTube series is not the first revival of the iconic ’80s show. Spitting Image was briefly resurrected in 2021, with both Murray and Forde working on the show as writers and voice actor respectively, parodying a new cast of political and pop culture figures, from Donald Trump to Greta Thunberg. It was cancelled by ITV after just two series.

Hosting their show on YouTube has allowed for this greater freedom when creating the satirical sketches.

“The danger sometimes with television is it becomes very bureaucratic and slow,” says Forde. “The comedy can almost get legislated out of a sketch. I think this smaller team and nimbler production has allowed it to just hit harder.”

And it seems the public would agree. The show’s viewing numbers on YouTube have hit nearly 12 million views and is reaching millions more across other streaming platforms.

The pair believe the media reaction highlights a clear appetite for cutting political satire and hope to bring the beloved classic to the smartphone generation.

“There are different themes, different celebrities, that you want to be lampooning,” says Forde. “To be able to apply that in 2025 when you’ve got TikTok and X and Instagram and make something the younger generation really love – that’s a real thrill.”

It’s not just Paddington viewers can tune into watch; the show parodies a host of recognisable figures faces, from Taylor Swift to Vladamir Putin. But for Forde, with his spot-on impersonation, his favourite has to be Trump.

“Trump is so much fun,” he says. “The puppet is phenomenal; it’s a grotesque recreation of him. When we’re writing and ad-libbing in the room, you’re inside the mind of this maniac and we have the tools to bring him to life in our own way.”

Parodying figures from all reals of the political spectrum, the pair maintain they never let their personal politics influence their character choices or depictions either.

“They’re all fair game and it’s just so much fun taking the p**s out of them,” says Forde. “But for each one there must be that grain of truth to it. It must be silly and big and daft, but you need to hit upon something that people recognise in those characters.

“In a way, the politics falls away from it. These are characters you’re satirising. They just happen to be political ones.”

“If the impression goes with the puppet,” says Murray, “…it doesn’t need to be laser point accurate because the puppets, after all, aren’t. They’ve got the essence of the person… it’s like, as Matt’s saying, it’s got to have the grain of truth in it. And then you dial it all up.”

The current run of Spitting Image will last for 12 episodes, but what about the show’s future?

“We’re seeing if it’ll work and whether the audience will come to it,” says Murray. “And we haven’t got to wait for someone to say yes, you spend so much time in comedy coming up with things and having to wait for someone to say yes.”

“I mean purely as a viewer, you think, why are these things so rare?” continues Forde. “It’s immensely frustrating that Spitting Image wasn’t around for so long.

“So many of the things we’ve done even in the last two episodes have gone viral, so there is a huge appetite for this sort of comedy. You want it to always be around.”

And what about our furry friend? It looks like he’ll be sticking around – he’s not heading back to Peru just yet.

‘I think if you were to ask our Paddington…” teases Forde. “You know, he’s an energetic guy, wants to work a lot…”

Spitting Image is available now on YouTube.

Check out more of our Comedy coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what’s on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.

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Attorneys Seek to Withdraw From Shocking Lawsuit Claiming Diddy, Odell Beckham Jr. & Druski Were Part of Sex-Trafficking Scheme
Celebrity News

Attorneys Seek to Withdraw From Shocking Lawsuit Claiming Diddy, Odell Beckham Jr. & Druski Were Part of Sex-Trafficking Scheme

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Attorneys Seek to Withdraw From Shocking Lawsuit Claiming Diddy, Odell Beckham Jr. & Druski Were Part of Sex-Trafficking Scheme

The attorneys representing the woman suing Sean “Diddy” Combs, Odell Beckham Jr., and comedian Druski are now asking to withdraw from the case entirely, citing a total breakdown in communication with their client.

According to the new motion filed in federal court in the Northern District of California, both lawyers said “irreconcilable differences” have made continued representation “unreasonably difficult.” They’re requesting permission to be relieved of all duties in the matter, saying the working relationship has “completely deteriorated.”

The case, originally filed in early 2024, accuses the defendants of a series of shocking acts — including alleged sex trafficking, drugging, and sexual assault. In her complaint, the unnamed plaintiff claims she was transported across state lines, supplied with drugs, and assaulted during parties tied to Diddy’s alleged network of associates. The filing also names Beckham and Druski as participants or witnesses in related alleged misconduct.

All defendants have denied wrongdoing, calling the lawsuit “false and defamatory.”

Now, with both of her attorneys moving to exit the case, it’s unclear whether the plaintiff will secure new representation or continue on her own. Legal experts note that if the court approves the withdrawal, the case could be delayed or even dismissed if she fails to obtain counsel.

The motion marks another twist in a case already drawing intense attention for its explosive celebrity connections and disturbing accusations.


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sean diddy combs sentenced for 50 months of prison
Bollywood

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Sentenced To 50 Months In Prison For S*xual Assault Lawsuit; Rapper Apologises To Mother, Kids

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Hip-hop mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs was sentenced to just over four years in prison on Friday after being convicted on prostitution-related charges involving his former girlfriends. His legal team argued for a 14-month sentence, emphasising that Combs is a reformed individual who has already served 13 months in a New York jail. Prosecutors, however, pushed for an 11-year sentence, citing his history of domestic violence.

Sean Diddy Combs Jailed For 50 Months In Prison

During the court proceedings, prosecutors detailed allegations of ab*se, and testimonies from several of Combs’ children—some visibly upset—were presented. The defence described him as an inspiring figure, while Combs himself offered a remorseful apology. Ultimately, Judge Arun Subramanian stated that a substantial sentence was necessary to serve as a deterrent and to send a message.

Before delivering the 50-month sentence, Combs addressed the court—his first public statement since the trial’s start. He apologised to his victims, specifically naming his ex-girlfriends, Casandra Ventura and ‘Jane, who testified under a pseudonym.

Sean’s Apology

“My actions were disgusting, shameful, and sick,” he said. “I got lost in excess, I got lost in my ego.” He also apologised to his mother and his seven children, many of whom were present in the courtroom. He pleaded for a second chance, asserting he would never jeopardise his time with his family again. “I ask your honour for mercy,” he implored. “I’m so sorry. They deserved better,” he added.

Combs expressed accountability, stating, “I don’t have nobody to blame but myself. I know that I’ve learned my lesson.”

What Happened Earlier In The Case?

The nearly two-month federal trial in New York City saw prosecutors accuse Combs of leveraging his celebrity and business empire to run a criminal enterprise and sex traffic his former girlfriends. They alleged that Combs arranged “freak-offs,” where he paid male escorts to have sex with his girlfriends while he watched and recorded, and that he coerced the women into unwanted encounters through drugs and violence.

Although Combs, 55, was acquitted in July of the most serious charges—racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking of Ventura and Jane—the jury found him guilty on two counts of transportation for prostitution. Throughout much of the trial, Combs maintained a stoic demeanour, listening quietly as prosecutors painted a picture of a man who devastated his victims’ lives.

Prosecutor’s Verdict

Prosecutor Christy Slavik argued that a harsher sentence was justified given the gravity of the offences. She emphasised that a lighter sentence would allow Combs to escape accountability for years of alleged domestic violence and ab*se.

“Today is about accountability and justice,” she asserted, pointing to victim statements and photographs of injuries inflicted by Combs. “He didn’t need the money; his currency was control. This is a defendant who will pose a danger at any age.”

The defence countered by asserting that Combs was not a pimp and that the prostitution charges did not reflect his actual conduct. Lawyer Jason Driscoll explained that the conviction was based on the Mann Act, a law from 1910 criminalising the transportation of women for immoral purposes, but noted that Combs did not profit financially from the acts.

They portrayed Combs as a changed man, citing his positive contributions during his 13 months in Brooklyn jail, as well as underlying issues like trauma and dr*g addiction that influenced his behaviour. Defence attorney Nicole Westmoreland expressed that Combs had personally inspired her and highlighted his efforts to start his own record label and clothing line, which she claimed motivated other black entrepreneurs.

Many of Combs’ children testified emotionally, with some sobbing, describing him as a “changed man” and pleading for a second chance. His son Quincy Brown remarked that Combs had “evolved,” and Delila Combs, 18, begged for the opportunity for her family to heal.

Final Verdict

Judge Subramanian acknowledged their testimonies but emphasised that Combs’ actions went beyond mere consumption of prostitution. He was found to have ab*sed his victims physically, emotionally, and psychologically. “You had the money and the power to keep it going,” he said, “This was subjugation.”

The judge rejected the defence’s portrayal of the relationships as consensual and emphasised that Combs’s conduct caused lasting trauma. “You ab*sed them, physically, emotionally, and psychologically,” he said. “Both women will carry this trauma for a lifetime. You had the means to continue, and you chose to subjugate them. This is the reality of what happened.”

Combs will serve approximately 50 months, crediting the roughly 13 months he already spent in custody. He will also be fined $500,000. Following the hearing, his attorney, Marc Agnifilo, announced plans to appeal the ruling.

For more news and updates from the entertainment world, stay tuned to Bollywood Bubble.

Also Read: Sean Diddy Combs Gets Slight Respite; Court DISMISSES 5 Charges In $30 Million S*xual Assault Lawsuit

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Judge Dismisses Janice Combs From $33M RICO Lawsuit
Music

Judge Dismisses Janice Combs From $33M RICO Lawsuit

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Janice Smalls Combs, mother of Sean “Diddy” Combs, just dodged a major legal bullet. A federal judge in California has tossed the $33,000,000 lawsuit filed against her, giving the Combs family a little breathing room ahead of Diddy’s sentencing.

The suit originated from Deon Best, also known as “D1,” who claimed that Ms. Combs violated the RICO Act and leveled a series of state law allegations that also brought Diddy into the mix. Best, who runs Finish Line Entertainment and Dee Mac Music, sought damages over alleged disputes tied to his business dealings.

However, on Friday (Sept. 19), Judge Percy Anderson ruled in the 84-year-old’s favor. The federal RICO claims were dismissed with prejudice, meaning Best cannot refile in federal court. The state law claims, however, were dismissed without prejudice, leaving a window for Best to pursue her in state court again.

Janice Combs attends the Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ Birthday Celebration Presented by Ciroc Vodka at The Grand Ballroom at The Plaza Hotel on November 20, 2009 in New York City.

Jemal Countess/Getty Images

D1’s lawsuit, initially filed in January 2025, claimed Ms. Combs orchestrated a scheme to take his intellectual property, royalties, and publishing revenues. He also alleged she used her influence to seize his rights, causing him both financial and emotional damage. The dispute centered on the song “Come with Me,” from the 1998 Godzilla soundtrack track which D1 says he “controlled, owned, produced and/or created.”

He accused Ms. Combs of obtaining it through illegal means, alleging that she had committed fraud, forgery, and hid records. D1 claimed he only discovered her alleged “hijacking of artist publishing” in late 2023.

Neither Janice nor D1 have spoken publicly about the ruling, but for now, the case is officially closed, giving Janice some relief from what could have been an even messier legal battle.

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ASAP Rocky Criticizes Drake For UMG Lawsuit Over "Not Like Us"
Music

ASAP Rocky Criticizes Drake For UMG Lawsuit Over “Not Like Us”

by jummy84
written by jummy84

A$AP Rocky is weighing in on the latest development in the ongoing fallout between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, particularly Drake’s surprising legal maneuver against Universal Music Group over Lamar’s chart-topping diss track, “Not Like Us.”

The Harlem rapper, whose cover story in ELLE was published Tuesday (Sept. 23), reflected on the lyrical clash that dominated spring 2024, producing standout tracks like Kendrick’s “Euphoria” and Drake’s fiery rebuttal “Family Matters,” which included digs at Rocky himself.

Still, Rocky chose not to jump into the fray.

A$AP Rocky attends 2021 Tribeca Festival Premiere of “Stockholm Syndrome”at Battery Park on June 13, 2021 in New York City.

Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for Tribeca Festival

“It was healthy for Hip-Hop,” A$AP said of the rivalry, noting that the duel reinvigorated rap’s competitive spirit. “The battle was between Kendrick and Drake, not Drake and everybody else who might have said something at that time. And that’s mainly why I fell back.”

But Rocky admitted his respect for the battle soured once Drake chose to take legal action over “Not Like Us,” a diss that went from a viral anthem to a cultural juggernaut, dominating charts and airwaves.

Drake

Drake watches on as the Sacramento Kings play the Toronto Raptors during the second half of their basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on November 2, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Mark Blinch/Getty Images

“I just hate the way it’s turning out with [Drake] suing and all that,” Rocky said. “What part of the game is that? What type of sh*t is that? That’s none of my business, I guess.”

Rocky’s critique carries an added weight considering his complicated history with Drake. Once collaborators and tourmates, their relationship has since fractured, reportedly accelerated by Rocky’s romance with Rihanna.

A$AP Rocky

*Exclusive Coverage* – A$AP Rocky and Drake attend the FIFA 14 Launch at The Union Square Ballroom on September 23, 2013 in New York City.

Theo Wargo/Getty Images

Drake and Rihanna’s on-again-off-again relationship had long been a fixture in pop culture, punctuated by musical hits like “Work” and “What’s My Name.”

But by 2018, Rihanna told Vogue that the two no longer maintained a friendship, citing the fallout from Drake’s public profession of love at the 2016 MTV VMAs.

Drake, Rihanna

Drake presents Rihanna with the The Video Vanguard Award during the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards at Madison Square Garden on August 28, 2016 in New York City.

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

“Waiting through that speech was probably the most uncomfortable part. I don’t like too many compliments; I don’t like to be put on blast,” she said at the time. “We don’t have a friendship now, but we’re not enemies either. It is what it is.”

Now, Rocky and Rihanna are partners and parents to two children, RZA and Riot, with hopes for more in the near future. RiRi is currently pregnant with their third.

Read A$AP Rocky’s ELLE cover story here.

A$AP Rocky and Rihanna

A$AP Rocky and Rihanna at the AWGE fashion show during Paris Fashion Week Menswear Spring/Summer 2025 held at Hôtel de Maisons on June 21, 2024 in Paris, France.

Swan Gallet/WWD via Getty Images

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Kapil Sharma's Faces Rs 25 Crore Lawsuit Over 'Baburao' Impersonation
Bollywood

Kapil Sharma’s Faces Rs 25 Crore Lawsuit Over ‘Baburao’ Impersonation

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Producer Firoz A Nadiadwala has issued a legal notice demanding ₹25 crore from Netflix and the creators of The Great Indian Kapil Show. The lawsuit alleges that the popular comedy show used Paresh Rawal’s iconic “Baburao Ganpatrao Apte” character from the beloved Hera Pheri franchise without obtaining proper permission. This legal action comes just as The Great Indian Kapil Show is set to air its final episode, featuring superstar Akshay Kumar as a guest. The controversy initially erupted when comedian Kiku Sharda impersonated the character, a role made eternally famous by Paresh Rawal. Nadiadwala, who unequivocally holds the rights to the character, claims that this portrayal was carried out without his essential consent, sparking a major debate about copyright and character ownership in the entertainment industry.

​Nadiadwala emphatically stated that nobody has the right to exploit the character of Baburao for wrongful commercial gain. As reported by News 18, he asserted, “Baburao is not just a character, but the soul of Hera Pheri. This legacy was built with our sweat, vision, and creativity, and no one can hijack or misuse it without our permission.” His statement underscores the deep emotional and creative investment he and his team have in the Hera Pheri franchise and its iconic characters. The producer also highlighted Paresh Rawal‘s dedication to the role, emphasizing the actor’s profound contribution. “Paresh Rawalji nurtured the role and put his heart and soul into it. No one has the right to misuse it for wrongful commercial gain. We will protect what we have created because culture is not for exploitation, it is for preservation,” he added, making a strong case for the protection of creative intellectual property.

​Legal Ramifications and Demands for Resolution

​The legal notice meticulously outlines several alleged violations, pinpointing specific sections of Indian law. These include copyright infringement under Section 51 of the Copyright Act, 1957, which deals with unauthorized use of copyrighted works, and trademark infringement under Section 29 of the Trademarks Act, protecting registered brand identities. The complaint further cites infringement of exclusive rights under Section 14 of the Copyright Act, which comprehensively covers communication of a work to the public and its inclusion in films. According to Nadiadwala’s legal team, led by Sana Raees Khan, the character of Baburao is not merely an iconic role but also a registered trademark explicitly owned by his family. This detail significantly strengthens their legal position, as trademark registration provides robust protection against unauthorized use for commercial purposes.

Demand is Straight: ‘Remove Baburao’s Bit from the Show’

​In the legal notice, Nadiadwala’s team has laid down clear and stringent demands. They have called for the immediate removal of the segment featuring the Baburao impersonation from Netflix and all associated third-party channels and social media platforms where it might have been distributed. Furthermore, the notice seeks a written assurance from Netflix and the show’s creators that the character will not be used again in the future without explicit authorization from Nadiadwala. They have also demanded a public apology within 24 hours, emphasizing the seriousness of the alleged infringement and the need for prompt rectification.

​Sana Raees Khan, the lawyer representing Firoz A Nadiadwala, underscored the gravity of the matter, issuing a stern warning to those who might consider creative works as free-for-all. She stated, “The unauthorized use of my client’s iconic character is not just infringement; it is blatant theft for commercial gain.” Her remarks highlight the legal team’s strong stance against what they perceive as a clear violation of intellectual property rights. Khan further elaborated on the legal principles at play, adding, “The law will not allow the dilution of rights that have been lawfully earned and zealously protected. These rights will be defended with the full force of legal action so that no one treats a creative legacy as a free commodity for exploitation.” This assertive legal position indicates that Nadiadwala is prepared to pursue all available legal avenues to protect his creative assets and set a precedent against similar infringements in the future.

About Kapil Sharma Comedy Show

​The Great Indian Kapil Show, which has been streaming on Netflix, airs its episodes on Saturdays at 8 pm. The lawsuit introduces a significant legal challenge for the show just as its first season concludes, potentially impacting future collaborations and setting a precedent for character rights in the burgeoning digital entertainment space.

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Who Is Gina Carano? 5 Things About ‘Mandalorian’ Alum & Disney Lawsuit – Hollywood Life
Celebrity News

Who Is Gina Carano? 5 Things About ‘Mandalorian’ Alum & Disney Lawsuit – Hollywood Life

by jummy84
written by jummy84

Image Credit: Getty Images for Disney

The Mandalorian alum Gina Carano was dropped by Lucasfilm and Disney in 2021 after sharing controversial posts on social media comparing the treatment of American conservatives to Jewish people in Nazi Germany. Nearly four years later, Gina, Lucasfilm and The Walt Disney Company settled their lawsuit in August 2025. The terms of the agreement have not been disclosed, but Lucasfilm released a statement on the matter.

“Ms. Carano was always well respected by her directors, co-stars, and staff, and she worked hard to perfect her craft while treating her colleagues with kindness and respect,” Lucasfilm’s statement read, per the Associated Press. “With this lawsuit concluded, we look forward to identifying opportunities to work together with Ms. Carano in the near future.”

Four years prior, Gina shared a number of controversial social media posts. In one TikTok video, she compared the state of U.S. politics to Nazi Germany. “Jews were beaten in the streets, not by Nazi soldiers but by their neighbors…even by children,” she wrote in a since-deleted video. In a separate post, Gina claimed that “history is edited, most people today don’t realize that to get to the point where Nazi soldiers could easily round up thousands of Jews, the government first made their own neighbors hate them simply for being Jews. How is that any different from hating someone for their political views?”

At the time, Lucasfilm released a statement about the actress’ release from the Star Wars show. “Gina Carano is not currently employed by Lucasfilm and there are no plans for her to be in the future. Nevertheless, her social media posts denigrating people based on their cultural and religious identities are abhorrent and unacceptable,” a statement from the studio issued to Variety read.

During a March 2024 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Gina opened up for the first time about her reaction to getting fired from her Disney+ series.

“I just laid down and cried and cried,” she recalled. “I curled into a fetal position. It’s not that I didn’t think that something like that could happen. It was that I couldn’t imagine they would put out this horrendous statement about me after working with me — the most powerful entertainment company in the world saying that about me.”

Gina also pointed out that she became “unhirable” in Hollywood following her firing. “And then it becomes OK for other people to disrespect you,” she said. “And then you’re just carrying around this disrespect, and you’re shouldering all this shame, and it affects your physicality, your mentality. You’re just kind of hopeless.”

Learn more about The Mandalorian alum below.

Gina Carano Starred in ‘The Mandalorian’

Gina played trusty sidekick and fellow bounty hunter Cara Dune in the Star Wars live-action series. Hailing from planet Alderaan, she has a unique arm tattoo that indicates she served as a shock trooper during the Galactic Civil War, as part of the Alliance to Restore the Republic and the New Republic. Cara is along for the ride with Pedro Pascal‘s “Mando” as the two attempt to protect child prodigy Grogu (a.k.a. “Baby Yoda”).

The casting came after she nearly quit Hollywood. “[Writer] Jon [Favreau] kind of just plucked me out of the desert and put me in this beautiful tropical place. And yeah, it’s hard work — sometimes 18 hour days — but I don’t care how hard this work is. I just absolutely love going to work; it gives me so much purpose,” she said of the gig to Refinery 29, confessing she wasn’t a big Star Wars fan before but is “100% in” now.

Gina Carano Appeared in ‘Deadpool’

Marvel fans may also recognize Gina as Angel Dust from Ryan Reynolds‘ Deadpool movies. Gina’s Angel Dust is pivotal in transforming Deadpool — née Wade Wilson — into a mutant with the intention of making him an assassin. In the first film, the pair confront each other during an epic battle. “My character is big, strong, and silent. She’s not got a lot to say. But I’m so happy to be a part of it,” she said of the role back in 2016 to Screen Rant. “I never knew anything about him before, but it’s been really nice to be a part of a film in such a big level to see something good happen to Ryan, because he’s genuinely one of the nicest actors I’ve ever met,” she added.

Gina Carano Was an MMA Fighter

Before getting into acting, Gina was a skilled athlete, competing in the MMA. In one of her most iconic fights, she took on Cris Cyborg in 2009 for Strikeforce: Carano vs. Cyborg. The historic moment marked the first time two women headlined a major MMA fight, and at the time, it broke ratings records. Gina also competed in EliteXS.

Gina Carano Is From Texas

Gina was born on April 16, 1982 in Dallas, Texas. She is the daughter of Dana Joy and former NFL player Glenn Carano, who played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1977 – 1983. Dana and Glenn are also parents to her two sisters, Kasey and Christi. Gina later moved to Las Vegas, NV with her family and graduated high school there.

Gina Carano Is Dating a Fellow Athlete

Gina found second chance love with Kevin Ross nearly 10 years after they first got together. Kevin, who is an American Muay Thai kickboxer and former mixed martial artist, confirmed their relationship publicly in 2015. “We’ve kept things under wraps as to not want to invite the entire world into our relationship, although I think it’s been pretty evident that we are back together,” he wrote. “For those of you that don’t know we dated for 4 years, were broken up for a decade then got back together on the 14th anniversary of the day we met…You are my inspiration, my best friend, my everything!!!” he added.

Previously, Gina dated Gina Carano Man of Steel actor Henry Cavill from 2012 to 2014.

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Live Nation Stock Falls on FTC Lawsuit, Sphere Enjoys 5th 'Oz' Bump
Music

Live Nation Stock Falls on FTC Lawsuit, Sphere Enjoys 5th ‘Oz’ Bump

by jummy84
written by jummy84

As U.S. stocks soared following a U.S. Federal Reserve interest rate cut, Live Nation shares fell in the wake of a lawsuit from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over what the agency called “years of systemic unfair and deceptive practices.” The high-flying stock dropped 5.8% to $163.72, lowering its year-to-date gain to 65.7%.

Live Nation’s stock dropped 2.5% after Bloomberg reported Monday (Sept. 15) that the FTC was investigating the company. Following news of the lawsuit, the company’s share price fell 2.8% on Thursday (Sept. 18) and dropped another 0.6% on Friday (Sept. 19). Separately, Rothschild & Co. Redburn downgraded Live Nation to a “neutral” rating and increased its price target to $170 from $144. Redburn analysts expect margin expansion to slow from 2026. 

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A dip of such a magnitude isn’t rare for Live Nation, and the stock has proven to be resilient. In 2019, Live Nation fell 7.3% after news broke that the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust division was scrutinizing the company, but the share price recovered in just four days. In 2021, the company’s shares fell more than 22% in the weeks after 10 people died as a result of a crowd crush at the Astroworld festival in Houston, but the stock recaptured nearly all of that loss within three months and now trades 28% above pre-Astroworld levels. 

Music stocks rode the market’s upswing as the 19-company Billboard Global Music Index (BGMI) gained 1.3% to 3,101.37, ending the week just off its all-time high of 3,117.20 set during the week ended June 30, 2025. Winners and losers were equally matched at nine apiece, and one company, Deezer, was unchanged. 

U.S indexes finished the week at record highs following the Federal Reserve’s decision on Wednesday (Sept. 17) to cut the federal funds rate, the benchmark for short-term interest rates, by a quarter of a percentage point. The Nasdaq climbed 2.2% to a record 22,631.48, while the S&P 500 rose 1.2% to 6,664.36, also a record close. In the U.K., the FTSE 100 dropped 0.7% to 9,216.67. South Korea’s KOSPI composite index rose 1.5% to 3,445.24. China’s Shanghai Composite Index sank 1.3% to 3,820.09.

Sphere Entertainment Co. posted its fifth successive weekly gain, rising 2.4% to $59.71 and giving the company a 41.4% gain in 2025. Investors have reacted positively to the success of Sphere’s AI-assisted revamped The Wizard of Oz. As of Monday, Sphere had sold more than 500,000 tickets for The Wizard of Oz, generating over $65 million in sales.

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Sphere lights up with an advertisement for "The Wizard of Oz at Sphere" ahead of the show's premiere on August 28, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Music’s greatest gainer of the week was iHeartMedia, which jumped 17.0% to $3.03 despite no major announcement or news report regarding the company. iHeartMedia shares have jumped 89.4% in the last six weeks and are up 81.4% year to date. 

In the K-pop world, SM Entertainment was up 6.8% this week, bringing its year-to-date gain to 110.7%. JYP Entertainment increased 1.6% while HYBE fell 0.9% after its chairman, Bang Si-hyuk, was questioned by South Korean authorities over allegations that he deceived early HYBE investors into selling their stakes ahead of the company’s IPO. Bang has denied that he provided false information to the investors. 

Spotify, the BGMI’s single largest component with a market capitalization of $150.4 billion, rose 5.5% to $734.92. That brought the stock back to the level reached on Aug. 15 before the price stumbled in three of the next four weeks. The stock went as high as $745.00 on Thursday, bringing Spotify within 5.1% of its all-time high of $785.00 set on June 27. 

Universal Music Group and CTS Eventim both fell 4.4%. Chinese music streamer Netease Cloud Music sank 6.7%. U.S. music streamer LiveOne was the week’s biggest loser, falling 10.5% to $0.51. 

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