Ozzy Osbourne Honoured with Final Tour Through Birmingham as Fans Flood Streets in Tribute

Thousands of fans lined the streets of Birmingham on Wednesday to pay their final respects to legendary rocker Ozzy Osbourne as his cortege made an emotional journey through the city he called home. The procession stopped at the iconic Black Sabbath Bridge on Broad Street, where mourners have created a shrine in tribute to the heavy metal pioneer, who died last week at the age of 76. Cries of “We love you, Ozzy!” rang out as the Osbourne family — Sharon, Jack, Kelly, and Aimee — laid flowers and paused to read the heartfelt messages left by fans. Sharon Osbourne, visibly emotional, offered a peace sign to the crowd before returning to the vehicle. Each family member held a pink rose wrapped in black paper and tied with a purple ribbon — colours synonymous with Black Sabbath. The hearse carrying Ozzy also bore floral arrangements in matching hues. The cortege began its route at Ozzy’s childhood home in Aston before heading into the city centre. The tribute came just weeks after Osbourne made his final stage appearance at Villa Park, where he performed alongside artists inspired by his decades-long career — including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and Yungblud. The day marked a powerful farewell to a music icon whose legacy continues to resonate with generations around the world.

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Veteran Music Producer and Filmmaker Femi Lasode Dies at 70

By Kamal Yalwa – July 26, 2025 Renowned Nigerian music producer, filmmaker, and cultural icon, Obafemi Lasode, has passed away at the age of 70. His death was announced on Friday by the former President of the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Dr. Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli, who paid tribute to Lasode’s decades-long contribution to Nigeria’s creative industry. In a heartfelt message shared with the public, Tee Mac wrote: “Obafemi Lasode (born 4 December 1955), a Nigerian veteran musician, film director and producer, songwriter, music producer, and playwright died today. My condolences to all. Respectfully, Dr. Tee Mac.” Lasode, known for his multifaceted career spanning music, film, and cultural promotion, was celebrated for his pioneering work in blending indigenous African narratives with modern storytelling in film and sound. He is perhaps best remembered for directing the critically acclaimed movie Sango, which showcased Yoruba mythology on an international stage. Tributes have begun pouring in from across the entertainment industry, as colleagues, fans, and institutions mourn the loss of one of Nigeria’s cultural trailblazers. Further details about funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.

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Top Boy Actor Micheal Ward Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault

British actor Micheal Ward, known for his role as Jamie in the Netflix hit series Top Boy, has been charged with multiple sexual offences, including two counts of rape. The 27-year-old has also been charged with two counts of assault by penetration and one count of sexual assault, all relating to a single alleged victim. The offences are reported to have occurred in January 2023 . Ward, who lives in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, is scheduled to appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court on 28 August, according to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). In a statement released through his representatives, Ward denied the allegations, saying, “I recognise that proceedings are now ongoing, and I have full faith that they will lead to my name being cleared.” Catherine Baccas, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London South, emphasised the seriousness of the matter: “We remind all concerned that proceedings against the suspect are active and he has a right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary, or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.” Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, who is overseeing the Metropolitan Police investigation, stated that specialist officers continue to support the complainant. Ward rose to fame with critically acclaimed roles in Blue Story, The Old Guard, and Empire of Light. He was awarded the BAFTA Rising Star in 2020 and received Best Supporting Actor nominations for his performances in Small Axe (2021) and Empire of Light (2022). He is also set to appear in the upcoming American film Eddington, starring alongside Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal, scheduled for release in the UK this August. Beyond acting, Ward has a significant public profile, with over a million followers on Instagram. He participated in last year’s Soccer Aid charity match and gave a reading at the Christmas Eve carol service hosted by the Princess of Wales in 2023.

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Iyabo Ojo Becomes Grandmother as Daughter Priscilla Welcomes Baby Boy with Juma Jux

Popular Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has officially become a grandmother following the birth of her daughter Priscilla’s first child with Tanzanian musician and husband, Jumma Jux. The joyful news was shared by fellow actress Tawa Ajisefini-Ali via her verified Instagram handle, @tawaajisefinni. https://www.instagram.com/p/DMgSyKhyQX9 In her post, delivered in Yoruba, Tawa congratulated Iyabo Ojo, Priscilla, and Jumma Jux on the arrival of their baby boy. She also offered prayers for the couple, wishing them continued blessings in their new journey as parents. Tawa further expressed heartfelt joy for her senior colleague Iyabo Ojo, celebrating her new status as a grandmother.

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Rock Legend Ozzy Osbourne Dies at 76 Weeks After Final Black Sabbath Concert

Heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, famed for his role as the frontman of Black Sabbath, has died at the age of 76, weeks after performing his farewell concert. Osbourne, who had lived with Parkinson’s disease for several years, passed away on Wednesday morning, surrounded by his family. His death was confirmed in a statement released by his wife Sharon Osbourne and their children Kelly, Jack, Aimee, and Louis. “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love,” the family said. “We ask everyone to respect our privacy at this time.” Earlier this month, Osbourne delivered what was described as his “final bow” during a special Black Sabbath concert at Villa Park in the U.K., performing from a throne due to his declining health. Tributes are pouring in from across the music world, with fellow rock legends and fans celebrating his decades-long impact on heavy metal and popular culture.

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Miss Nollywood International 2025 Hassana Ozohu Salisu Declares for Actors Guild of Nigeria Election in Kogi

Queen Hassana Ozohu Salisu, Miss Nollywood International 2025, entrepreneur, author, and beauty queen, has officially declared her intention to contest in the forthcoming Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) election in Kogi State. In a passionate statement, Salisu outlined her vision to transform the entertainment industry in Kogi, promising to champion collaboration, skill development, and resource mobilization for local artists. “Art is a powerful medium that transcends boundaries and influences culture. In Kogi State, we have a wealth of talent, but a lack of support and resources often limits our potential. I am stepping forward to advocate for a brighter future for all creatives,” she said. Her agenda includes initiating workshops and training programs, fostering partnerships with government and private organizations for funding and mentorship, and promoting diversity and inclusion in the entertainment sector. With over 2,000 active actors currently engaged in productions across Kogi, Salisu believes that strategic leadership within the AGN can position the state as a powerhouse in Nollywood. “The 2025 election is not just about me; it’s about us—the talented people of Kogi State. Together, we can craft a legacy where our stories are celebrated and our dreams fulfilled,” she added.

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The Cosby Show’ Star Malcolm-Jamal Warner Dies at 54

Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the acclaimed actor best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on the iconic sitcom The Cosby Show, has died at the age of 54. Warner rose to fame in 1984 when he was cast alongside Bill Cosby, Phylicia Rashad, Keshia Knight Pulliam, and Tempestt Bledsoe on the beloved series. He remained on the show for its entire eight-season run, earning an Emmy nomination in 1986 for his performance. Beyond The Cosby Show, Warner starred in other hit series such as Malcolm & Eddie, and built a career spanning over four decades in film, television, and music. His passing marks the end of an era for fans who grew up watching him as part of one of television’s most celebrated families.

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Bill Gates Features in First Nigerian Comedy Skit with MI Abaga, Broda Shaggi, and Layi Wasabi

Bill Gates Features in First Nigerian Comedy Skit with MI Abaga, Broda Shaggi, and Layi Wasabi

Microsoft co-founder and billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates has surprised fans by appearing in his first Nigerian comedy skit alongside MI Abaga, Broda Shaggi, and Layi Wasabi. The light-hearted skit, shared on MI Abaga’s Instagram, features Gates in a playful music studio scene, humorously giving lyrical suggestions for a track linked to veteran artist Ms. Veno Marioghae. While Gates has previously taken part in humorous PR videos, this marks his first direct interaction with African pop culture through comedy. The collaboration has quickly gone viral, sparking conversations online about how Nigerian creators are attracting global attention with innovative and unexpected content. The video has been widely praised for its creative blend of humor and star power, highlighting the growing global appeal of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

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