‘Indolent and not photogenic’: can I make my reluctant cat a social media star in seven days?

The introduction of AI 'actor' Tilly Norwood has ignited significant controversy in Hollywood, drawing sharp criticism from industry insiders and sparking a lively debate among Guardian readers. Many are concerned about the implications of AI in acting, fearing it could undermine the artistry and authenticity of human performers. This discussion is crucial as it highlights the broader ethical and creative challenges posed by the rise of artificial intelligence in entertainment, raising questions about the future of acting and the role of technology in creative fields.

The rise of AI 'actors' in Hollywood is raising serious ethical concerns, as these digital performers are being trained on the likenesses of real actors without their consent or compensation. This development could blur the lines between reality and artificiality in entertainment, leading to a future where audiences may struggle to distinguish between human and AI performances. It's a significant issue because it not only threatens the livelihoods of actors but also raises questions about intellectual property rights and the authenticity of artistic expression.

Tech companies in Australia are reportedly considering abandoning their efforts to combat online misinformation, a move that has drawn criticism from various quarters. Critics argue that misinformation is a significant issue that social media platforms exploit for profit, raising concerns about the impact on public discourse and trust in information. This situation is crucial as it highlights the ongoing struggle between profit motives and the responsibility of tech companies to ensure accurate information is shared online.

Australian film producers and experts have criticized President Trump's proposal to impose tariffs on foreign-made films, labeling it as bizarre and impractical. They argue that the film industry is inherently global, with Australia deeply connected to Hollywood. This proposal could disrupt international collaborations and hinder the growth of the Australian film sector, raising concerns about its feasibility and potential negative impact on creativity and commerce.

In a heartfelt moment during a new show with actor Eugene Levy, Prince William expressed his feelings of missing his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, and his grandfather, Prince Philip. He noted that there has been significant change in his life since their passing. This candid revelation highlights the personal impact of loss within the royal family and resonates with many who have experienced similar feelings of nostalgia and change.

President Donald Trump's announcement of a 100% tariff on films made outside the U.S. is stirring significant concern in Hollywood. This move, which echoes a previous threat from May, could drastically alter the global film industry, impacting not just international productions but also American audiences who enjoy diverse cinema. The implications of such a policy could lead to higher prices for consumers and limit the variety of films available in theaters.

As technology evolves, the conversation around AI personhood is becoming increasingly relevant. With the recent release of OpenAI's GPT-5, users have expressed a mix of confusion and frustration, especially after the temporary removal of access to GPT-4o. This situation highlights the need for society to consider how we will interact with digital minds and the implications of their treatment. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as we navigate the future of AI and its role in our lives.

Australia kicks off their title defense in the Women's Cricket World Cup against New Zealand in Indore. The match, held at Holkar Stadium, is set to start at 3 PM local time. This game is significant as it marks the beginning of the tournament for Australia, who are looking to maintain their championship status. Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on the match.

The US government has officially shut down for the first time since 2018 after competing funding bills were rejected in the Senate. This shutdown is particularly concerning as it is expected to have a more severe impact on federal workers and services. The ongoing partisan conflict between Republicans and Democrats has led to this impasse, highlighting the challenges in reaching bipartisan agreements. This situation matters because it affects millions of Americans who rely on government services and the stability of the federal workforce.

PPE Medpro, a company linked to Baroness Mone, has been ordered by the court to repay £122 million in damages related to a PPE contract. This ruling highlights the ongoing scrutiny and legal challenges surrounding government contracts during the pandemic, raising questions about accountability and transparency in public spending.

The ringleader of a grooming gang in Rochdale has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for his role in the repeated rapes and assaults of two girls starting from the age of 13. This case highlights the ongoing issues of child exploitation and the importance of justice for victims, as it sheds light on the dark realities faced by vulnerable youth in communities.

Roy Schwartz critiques Trump's recent peace plan, which he argues is more of a fantasy than a feasible solution for the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While the plan promises a return to normalcy that many Israelis desire, it overlooks the complexities of the situation and the future of Gaza. This matters because it highlights the gap between political promises and the realities on the ground, raising questions about the effectiveness of such proposals in achieving lasting peace.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has expressed grave concerns about Europe's current geopolitical landscape, describing it as the most challenging since World War II. She supports the European Commission's initiative to provide a reparation loan for Ukraine, backed by frozen Russian assets. Additionally, Latvian Prime Minister Siliņa emphasizes the urgency of advancing the EU's drone capabilities, countering criticism about the timeline for development. This situation highlights the pressing need for European unity and swift action in response to ongoing conflicts.