Michelle Obama addresses divorce rumors and public absences, Nigerian artists win big at the 2025 AAEA Music Awards, Cristiano Ronaldo launches movie studio with actor Matthew Vaughn. Stay in the know with our Rave News Digest, which summarizes five of the hottest global news stories you need to catch up on, saving you time and energy. Consider it your daily news fix.
Here is a rundown of five of the hottest news topics…
1. Michelle Obama addresses divorce rumors and public absences
Michelle Obama shuts down divorce rumors after being noticeably absent from public events with Barack:
“And that’s the thing that we as women struggle with — disappointing people. So much so that people, they couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself, that they… pic.twitter.com/JGgPL4uqUj
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) April 9, 2025
In a candid podcast appearance, former First Lady Michelle Obama addressed the divorce rumors surrounding her marriage to former President Barack Obama and her absence from key public events earlier this year. Speaking on the Work in Progress podcast hosted by Sophia Bush, Mrs. Obama dismissed the speculation about a possible split, saying the rumors stem from society’s inability to accept a woman simply making choices for herself. Her comments come after she notably skipped President Trump’s inauguration and former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral—both of which Barack Obama attended.
While she didn’t mention Donald Trump by name, Mrs. Obama shared that her decision to skip certain events reflected her growing commitment to personal agency. “I chose to do what’s best for me, not what I had to do,” she explained. Without directly denying the divorce rumors, Mrs. Obama emphasized that she is simply a woman choosing what serves her best—a sentiment that pushes back against the assumptions often placed on public figures.
2. Nigerian artists win big at 2025 AAEA Music Awards
Wizkid, Ayra Star, Asake and Tems and many more Wins Big At The just concluded AAEA Awards.#criticcircle #thecriticcircle pic.twitter.com/PfgbSSUF4u
— CRITIC CIRCLE (@TheCriticCircle) April 9, 2025
The 2025 African All Entertainment Awards (AAEA), held in Nairobi, Kenya, turned into a celebration of Nigerian musical dominance as the country’s artists claimed several top honors. Wizkid secured two major wins—Best Afro-R&B Song for “Piece of My Heart” with Brent Faiyaz and Best Afro-Native Song with Asake for “MMS” from Asake’s “Lungu Boy” album. Ayra Starr clinched Best Female Artist in West Africa, while Seyi Vibez won Best Male Artist. Rap sensation Odumodublvck was named Best Rapper in West Africa, marking another milestone in his rising career.
Davido and Chris Brown won Best Global Collaboration for “Hmm,” showcasing the power of international partnerships. British-Nigerian artist Darkoo was awarded Best Diasporan Act for her “Favourite Girl remix” featuring Rema. Burna Boy took home Best Overall Male Artist of the Year, and Tems won Best Global Female African Artist. The AAEA 2025 highlighted Africa’s vibrant music scene, with Nigerian artists once again at the forefront of its global rise.
3. Deadly collapse at nightclub stuns Dominican Republic
At least 113 people were killed and more than 155 injured when a nightclub’s roof collapsed in the Dominican Republic’s capital city. One of those killed was prominent Dominican singer Rubby Pérez, who was known as “the highest voice in merengue” and had been performing with his… pic.twitter.com/gI797JSGvr
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) April 9, 2025
A devastating roof collapse at the popular Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo has left the Dominican Republic in mourning after at least 124 people were confirmed dead and more than 150 injured. The tragic incident occurred just after midnight on Tuesday, April 8, during a live performance by Dominican merengue icon Rubby Pérez, who was among those killed. The nightclub, a long-standing venue in the capital, was packed with fans when the structure suddenly gave way, trapping hundreds beneath the rubble.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with 145 people pulled from the wreckage so far, according to reports. Emergency crews and heavy machinery continue to comb through the debris in a race against time. The cause of the collapse remains under investigation, though officials noted the building had suffered damage in a fire in 2023. President Luis Abinader offered condolences, saying, “All relief agencies have provided the necessary assistance and are working tirelessly in the rescue efforts.”
4. The Weeknd announces one-night-only fan screening for “Hurry Up Tomorrow” movie
The Weeknd announces a one night only early fan screening for his upcoming film, ‘HURRY UP TOMORROW’ nationwide on May 14th.
Tickets will go on sale April 17th. pic.twitter.com/lXi91oKq46
— miixtapechiick.com (@MXCKdotCom) April 9, 2025
The Weeknd is giving his fans an exclusive opportunity to experience his debut feature film “Hurry Up Tomorrow” ahead of its official release. In an Instagram post earlier this week, the Toronto singer announced a special one-night-only fan screening set for May 14. Tickets for the event go on sale April 17, with added incentives for early supporters. “Be the first to see the film plus stay after for never-before-seen bonus content,” The Weeknd shared. Fans can also purchase a limited bundle that includes signed posters and exclusive tees.
The film, which shares its title with The Weeknd’s chart-topping album released in February, is a psychological thriller directed by Trey Edward Shults and stars Barry Keoghan, Jenna Ortega, and The Weeknd himself—marking his official feature film debut. Scored by The Weeknd and Daniel Lopatin, “Hurry Up Tomorrow” promises a bold expansion of the artist’s creative universe. “Abel is a visionary whose art cannot be confined by any single medium,” said Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson in a statement. “This film will usher in a new cinematic experience for fans.”
5. Cristiano Ronaldo launches movie studio with actor Matthew Vaughn
Coming soon… pic.twitter.com/c2XlFvqKme
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) April 10, 2025
Cristiano Ronaldo and renowned filmmaker Matthew Vaughn have teamed up to launch a new film studio venture, UR MARV, marking their entry into the world of action films. The duo, who share a passion for sports and storytelling, have already produced two action films and are set to release a trilogy. Vaughn, famous for his work on the “Kingsman” franchise, described Ronaldo as a “real-life superhero,” while Ronaldo called this collaboration an “exciting new chapter” in his business ventures. The new studio, combining innovative technology with a nod to tradition, will create films that blend the worlds of sports and storytelling.
Through UR MARV, the pair have financed and produced two films in a new action series, with a third already in the works. Ronaldo, who has previously appeared in documentaries and biopics, is venturing into fiction for the first time. Vaughn, known for his work on films like “Stardust” and “X-Men: First Class,” looks forward to working alongside Ronaldo to create inspiring, high-energy movies. As Ronaldo continues to excel in his football career with Al Nassr, this partnership marks a bold new chapter in his life beyond the pitch.
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Our Weekday News Digest summarizes five of the hottest news topics worldwide–including celebrity news from Hollywood to Nollywood, the latest trending global headlines from American reports to top African news today, and the best sports stories in 2025.
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