Celebrity culture is one thing. For TMZ, Congress is the new 'reality show' : NPR

• Fast Track Entertainment has officially unveiled Launchpad, a new artist growth platform targeting South Korea and South-East Asia. • Developed in partnership with Sony Music Entertainment, the platform integrates live showcase experiences, brand partnerships, and new media engagement to support emerging talent.

• Sophia, a member of the group KATSEYE, announced a hiatus on August 8, 2026, to prioritize her mental health. • The announcement comes at a critical time as the group prepares for an upcoming album release.

• Singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile has announced the rescheduling of her upcoming tour dates across the U.K. and Europe. • The artist stated she has "no choice" but to postpone the performances due to unspecified "personal circumstances."

• Netflix's *Stranger Things* emerged as the most-streamed title in the United States during the first half of 2026. • The series outperformed top competitors from HBO Max, specifically surpassing the popularity of *Bluey* and *The Pitt*.

• Zee Entertainment has secured exclusive broadcast and digital rights for Italy's Serie A, Coppa Italia, and Supercoppa Italiana across South Asia. • The comprehensive partnership agreement spans five years and is scheduled to officially commence on August 22.

• The ASEAN Film Festival 2026 will run from 20 August to 27 September, featuring its largest program to date with over 30 films and free screenings. • The event opens with the Philippines' "Song of the Fireflies" and marks the first-ever participation of Timor-Leste, alongside entries from other ASEAN nations and guests from China and Hong Kong.

• HBO Max is releasing three new shows for the week of August 3-9, featuring a diverse range of genres. • The new lineup includes a documentary series providing access to the Seattle Seahawks, a clothing-optional survival reality show, and a multiverse-themed comedy spinoff.

• Streaming Data has released its list of the top 10 most-streamed TV series for July 2026. • The rankings feature a diverse mix of genres, highlighting the epic fantasy "House of the Dragon" and the thriller "I Will Find You" as top picks for viewers.

• The 5th Asia International Youth Film Festival (AIYFF) concluded with its awards ceremony held at Asia Television in Hong Kong on July 30, 2026. • Chinese mainland actor Huang Xiaoming received the Best Actor award for his precise portrayal of a character's complex inner emotions.

• Actress Susmita Mukherjee, known for her role in *Golmaal*, revealed on August 7, 2026, that she previously starred in "C-grade films" to settle a ₹1 crore loan. • Mukherjee expressed deep regret over the decision, stating she is "not proud" of that period and felt as though she had "sold her soul" to clear the debt.

• Actress Michelle Yeoh has been named the Asian Film-maker of the Year at the Busan International Film Festival. • The prestigious award is granted to film professionals or organizations that have made exceptional and lasting contributions to Asian cinema.

• The Busan International Film Festival announced on Thursday that Oscar-winner Michelle Yeoh has been named the Asian Filmmaker of the Year. • Yeoh will officially accept the honor during the festival's opening ceremony on October 6.