Why top comedians are being criticised for performing in Saudi Arabia

Underscore Talent has launched a new comedy division aimed at merging traditional stand-up with the digital-first landscape. Led by industry veteran Michael Green, who co-founded The Firm and Studio71, this initiative is set to bring fresh talent into the comedy scene. This move is significant as it reflects the evolving nature of entertainment, where digital platforms are becoming increasingly important for comedians to reach wider audiences.

Louis CK has publicly defended his choice to perform at the Riyadh comedy festival, describing it as a 'good opportunity' despite acknowledging the mixed feelings surrounding the event due to Saudi Arabia's human rights record. His comments come in response to criticism from fellow comedians who argue that participating in such events can be seen as whitewashing the country's controversial regime. This situation highlights the ongoing debate about the intersection of art, politics, and ethics in the entertainment industry.

Sky has made an exciting acquisition by securing the rights to 'The Miniature Wife,' a comedy-drama featuring Elizabeth Banks and Matthew Macfadyen, set to premiere in 2026. This show promises to bring humor to the complexities of marriage, making it a highly anticipated addition to Sky's lineup. With the star power of Banks and Macfadyen, this series is expected to attract a wide audience, showcasing Sky's commitment to delivering quality entertainment.

Banijay Nordic has made a significant move by appointing Georgie Mathew, a Netflix executive, as the new CEO of Filmlance, a prominent production company in Stockholm. This change comes ahead of Hanne Palmquist's exit and is set to take effect in January 2026. Mathew's experience at Netflix Nordic, where he played a key role in developing original series, positions him well to lead Filmlance into a new era. This appointment is exciting as it signals Banijay's commitment to enhancing its production capabilities in the Scandinavian market.

Amelia Dimoldenberg, known for her hit show 'Chicken Shop Date,' is launching a new YouTube series called 'Passenger Princess' in collaboration with Formula 1. This exciting partnership marks a new chapter for Dimoldenberg as she steps into the fast-paced world of motorsport, bringing her unique interviewing style to a new audience. The four-part series promises to blend celebrity interviews with the thrill of racing, making it a must-watch for fans of both entertainment and F1. This venture not only showcases Dimoldenberg's versatility but also highlights the growing intersection between pop culture and sports.

Secuoya Studios is set to receive the prestigious MIP SDG Award at Mipcom Cannes for its impactful sustainable production program. This recognition, presented in partnership with the United Nations, highlights the studio's commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. The award, established in 2020, underscores the importance of sustainability in the entertainment industry, making this achievement not only a win for Secuoya but also a significant step forward for eco-friendly practices in media production.

Yash Raj Films is making a significant return to the U.K. with a new three-picture deal that is set to create around 3,000 jobs. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced this exciting news during his visit to Yash Raj Studios in Mumbai. This move not only strengthens the cultural ties between India and the U.K. but also boosts the local economy through job creation and increased production activity in the film industry.

The Producers Guild of India has teamed up with the U.K. trade body Pact to enhance collaboration between their film industries. This Memorandum of Understanding is part of a broader initiative to strengthen U.K.-India partnerships, which was recently announced. By fostering closer ties, both nations aim to boost their production sectors, creating more opportunities for filmmakers and enhancing cultural exchange. This collaboration is significant as it opens doors for co-productions and shared resources, ultimately enriching the cinematic landscape in both countries.