British actor Tom Wilkinson, known for ‘The Full Monty’ and ‘Michael Clayton,’ dies at 75

LONDON – Tom Wilkinson, the Oscar-nominated British actor known for his roles in “The Full Monty,” “Michael Clayton” and “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel,” has died, his family said. He was 75. A statement shared by his agent on behalf of the family said Wilkinson died suddenly at home on Saturday. It didn’t provide further … Read more

Austrian government supports Vienna Boys Choir to help it out of financial difficulties

BERLIN – The Austrian government said Saturday that it is giving the country’s centuries-old Vienna Boys Choir 800,000 euros ($884,000) to help it out of severe financial difficulties. “It goes without saying that we will rescue them from their financial plight,” Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said. “We are proud of this world-famous choir, which has … Read more

Bollywood celebrates rocking year, riding high on action flicks, unbridled masculinity and misogyny

NEW DELHI – Bollywood has made a financial comeback this year worthy of one of its traditional singing-on-top-of-the-hills moments. India’s Hindi language movie industry made an impressive recovery after a pandemic-driven slowdown, audience fatigue with big studio productions and Bollywood megastars, and streaming platforms taking away a large chunk of viewership. According to consultancy firm … Read more

Shirley Bassey and Ridley Scott are among hundreds awarded in UK’s New Year Honors list

LONDON – Singer Shirley Bassey, director Ridley Scott and Mary Earps, the goalkeeper for England’s women’s soccer team, were recognized Friday in the U.K.’s New Year Honors list, which celebrates the achievements and services of more than 1,000 people across the country. Bassey, 86, who is already a dame — the female equivalent of a … Read more