Stephen A. Smith lashes out after receiving NABJ 'Thumbs Down' award - Los Angeles Times

• Film Independent is expanding the Spirit Awards by introducing two new categories: Best International First Feature and a Digital Creator Award. • The Digital Creator Award targets storytellers producing original work for digital-first platforms, with the winner receiving a $25,000 unrestricted grant.

• Madonna has secured the most nominations for the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, with Taylor Swift following closely behind. • The announcement coincides with an interactive installation titled “C’mon Meet Me On The Dancefloor” at Outernet London on August 16, 2026, celebrating Madonna’s 68th birthday.

• Madonna has emerged as the leading nominee for the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, followed by Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and Sabrina Carpenter. • This marks the first time Madonna has led the nominations since 1998 and 1990, years in which she secured nine nominations each.

• Actress Hayden Panettiere has died at the age of 36, as confirmed by her representative to ABC News on Sunday. • Panettiere, known for her role in the series "Nashville," was found in cardiac arrest prior to her passing.

• CableTV.com has released its top six TV and movie recommendations for the streaming week of August 10–16, featuring content from platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, AMC+, and Paramount+. • A highlighted release is comedian Kelsey Cook's new stand-up special, debuting Tuesday, August 18, which focuses on relatable social anxiety and modern dating struggles.

• MTV announced the official nominations for the 2026 Video Music Awards on Tuesday, August 18. • The complete list of nominees features high-profile artists, including pop icons Madonna and Taylor Swift.

• Madonna has secured the most nominations for the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, followed by Taylor Swift with nine nods. • Swift is currently just one win away from becoming the most-awarded artist in the history of the VMAs.

• Business Insider has released a list of celebrity deaths for 2026, noting the loss of figures such as James Van Der Beek, Catherine O'Hara, Ted Turner, Hayden Panettiere, and Jesse Jackson. • The report highlights the passing of Academy Award-winning actress V وهكذا (implied Fricker), who died on July 16; she was the first Irish actress to win an Oscar in 1990 for "My Left Foot."

• Top South Korean male celebrities are increasingly choosing streaming platforms over traditional television for their first projects following mandatory military service. • This shift reflects a broader industry trend where global OTT services offer more creative freedom and wider international reach than domestic broadcast networks.

• CEO Josh D’Amaro hosted the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event at the Honda Center to unveil exclusive first looks and major entertainment announcements. • The showcase featured creators and stars from across Disney's portfolio, including Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN.

• Disney hosted "D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event" at the Honda Center, featuring a series of high-profile showcases and an awards ceremony. • The event included the Disney Entertainment Showcase on Friday, the Disney Experiences Showcase on Saturday, and the Disney Legends Award Ceremony on Sunday.