Salman Khan: Priyanka Chopra Called Ali Abbas Zafar, Asking For Bharat

Revealing that Katrina Kaif was the original choice for period drama until Priyanka Chopra evinced interest, Salman Khan on how he harbours no hard feelings over her sudden exit

Salman Khan and Priyanka Chopra

To beat the heat in Goa, Salman Khan swapped his shirt for a white vest. That is not to imply that the superstar compromised on his style at the launch of Bigg Boss 12; what he lacked in the sartorial department, he made up for by his grand entry - Khan arrived at the event in a motor boat amid cheers from his fans.

As he sat down for a chat with mid-day, we addressed the inevitable: Priyanka Chopra's abrupt exit from his period drama, Bharat. "It was sweet of her to tell us five days before the shoot that she couldn't do Bharat," began Khan, indicating that it was not just his muscles on display, but his dry humour too. "I'm glad Katrina is part of the film. She was Atul's [Agnihotri, producer] first choice. But Priyanka called Ali [Abbas Zafar, director] and said she wanted to do Bharat, so we considered her."

Ali Abbas Zafar

While it was initially believed that Chopra walked out of the film to get engaged to boyfriend Nick Jonas, it was later learnt that she had chosen Cowboy Ninja Viking opposite Chris Pratt over the Khan starrer. However, days later, the makers announced that the Hollywood project was infinitely delayed. Khan, on his part, says, "I hope the other movie that she has signed, works out. Now that she is engaged, we are happy for her. I hope she gets married soon, has children and lives happily ever after."

Before he begins the next schedule of Bharat, Khan will honour his small screen commitment. Having been the face of nine of the 12 seasons of Bigg Boss, he insists that hosting the show is no mean feat. "I don't know why certain contestants behave the way they do. Maybe it's because of the environment. I think the Bigg Boss house is the most difficult place to be in. And I am somebody who has even been to jail."

A still from Bharat

He also realises that many seek to boost their career through the show, "Some people get into the house to get work. But how will anyone hire them for a job, if they behave in an unruly manner in the house?"

MIDDAY.

Christina Grimmie's Mother Dies Of Cancer

Two years after singer Christina Grimmie's tragic and sudden death, her mother Tina Grimmie has died of breast cancer

Christina Grimmie

Two years after singer Christina Grimmie's tragic and sudden death, her mother Tina Grimmie has died of breast cancer.

"We are saddened to announce the loss of our beloved Tina, also affectionately known as ‘Mama Grimmie' to the millions of fans of Christina Grimmie around the world. She will be missed immensely," the Grimmie family said in a statement shared on social media on Sunday, reports people.com.

"Tina fought a courageous and brave battle with cancer for many years, even until her final hours with family by her side. While this is a bittersweet moment for us as a family, particularly after losing Christina two years ago, we rejoice at the thought that Tina and Christina are united once again in the presence of our Lord and Savior," the statement continued.

On June 10, 2016, Christina was shot at after performing as the opening act for "Before You Exit" at The Plaza Live venue near downtown Orlando. Grimmie's brother Marcus heroically tackled her assailant Kevin James Loibl to the ground, before the latter turned the gun on himself.

The singer was 22.

"Tina Grimmie was a powerful and shining example of motherhood, being an amazing wife while giving love and encouragement to others. Her laugh, energy, passion and joyful spirit will eternally be a part of all of us," the statement added.

Tina is survived by her husband Bud and son Marcus.

MIDDAY.

Gerard Butler Puts On Loved-Up Display With Girlfriend

Gerard Butler put on a loved-up display with his girlfriend Morgan Brown amid claims that they are searching for a house in New York together

Gerard Butler

Actor Gerard Butler put on a loved-up display with his girlfriend Morgan Brown amid claims that they are searching for a house in New York together. They were spotted together on Saturday in Malibu where he couldn't keep his eyes off her as they chatted at a star-studded carnival, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Butler was casually clad in a plaid shirt and camouflage pants, topping off his look with a baseball cap.

He was spotted smiling as he cosied up to Brown.

It was earlier reported that Butler was looking to move in with his on and off girlfriend. They are believed to have been busy eyeing up potential properties in the Chelsea area of New York.

MIDDAY.

Priyanka Chopra's Future Father-In-Law Files For Bankruptcy

Nick Jonas' father is planning to sell most of his assets to pay the debt. Nick and musician brothers Joe and Kevin are also likely to bail daddy dearest out

Nick Jonas with finace Priyanka Chopra and mother Denise, father Paul Jonas

The Jonas Brothers are doing great, however, it looks like their father is facing some serious financial problems. Nick Jonas' father, Paul, is facing financial problems. His construction and real estate company has filed for bankruptcy. As reported by an American entertainment portal, which has access to the legal documents, the debt is of USD 1 million, including a USD 268K judgment from a case his company had lost, reported TMZ.

Priyanka Chopra's future father-in-law is planning to sell most of his assets to pay the debt. Nick and musician brothers Joe and Kevin are also likely to bail daddy dearest out.

The Jonas Brothers had sold millions of records globally before the band broke up in 2013, and the trio has continued building their portfolios on their own. Nick reportedly has a net worth of USD 25 million. He has made most of his money as a solo artist, but he has also got a budding acting career and was recently seen in the 'Jumanji' remake.

Joe is said to have a net worth of USD 18 million and just listed his luxury farmhouse in Sherman Oaks for USD 4.25 million. Not to forget about Kevin, the rocker turned reality TV star has a reported net worth of USD 20 million.

Money definitely doesn't grow on trees; a lot of hard work goes in, but looks like the Jonas family tree has plenty of cash to go around.

Emma Stone: I Can't Imagine My Life Without Ryan Gosling

Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling have starred in a number of films together including La La Land and Crazy, Stupid, Love and she says Gosling has had a huge impact on her life and career

Emma Stone

Emma Stone says she can not imagine her life without good friend Ryan Gosling. The duo have starred in a number of films together including "La La Land" and "Crazy, Stupid, Love" and she says Gosling has had a huge impact on her life and career, reported E! online.

"He is a dear wonderful friend. I can't even imagine what my life would be without Ryan. He's such a great person to work with because he's so collaborative and excited about the process. He's taught me a lot about being really generous," Stone said during a Q&A session at the Telluride Film Festival in Colorado.

"He's so special. It makes me emotional," she added.

MIDDAY.

Dave Bautista May Not Return For Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3

Dave Bautista, who plays the role of Drax in the films, spoke against Disney and revealed how they fired Guardians of the Galaxy director James Gunn after his controversial tweets came out

Dave Bautista

A bad news for all the Drax fans, American actor Dave Bautista might not return for the 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3'. In an interview on 'The Jonathan Ross Show', the Hollywood star, who plays the role of Drax in the films, spoke against Disney and revealed how they fired 'Guardians of the Galaxy' director James Gunn after his controversial tweets came out-- which he shared nearly a decade ago on topics like paedophilia and rape.

The actor continued to speak in defence of the director, reported Deadline. When the show's host asked him about his future in the third film of the franchise, Bautista said, "It's a bitter-sweet conversation, um, no it's a bitter-bitter conversation because I'm not really happy with what they've done with James Gunn.'

Watch the interview here:

The star further said he is not sure if he wants to continue with Disney, "They're putting the movie off, it's on hold indefinitely. To be honest with you I don't know if I want to work for Disney," he added. Kevin Hart, who was also a guest on the talk show, jokingly said, "I'll tell you what' I don't want to be here when gets upset so I suggest we change the subject."

Bautista was completely honest about his feelings as he said that it has been pretty nauseating to work for Disney now. Host Ross pointed out that it is quite unusual in Hollywood, to which Bautista replied, "I don't think I'm your typical Hollywood guy."

It might be easy for Dave Bautista to quit since his character was one of the victims of Thano's Infinity Gauntlet snap at the end of 'Avengers Infinity War', but it would be a major loss for fans. However, the entire Guardians of the Galaxy cast, including Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel extended their support and asked for Gunn to be reinstated as Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 3 director. The official release date of the film is yet to be revealed.

MIDDAY.

Deepika Padukone's 2nd Hollywood Film In Pipeline; Roped In For XXx Yet Again

Film's director DJ Caruso announced the same on Twitter after welcoming Chinese singer-actor Roy Wang to the xXx family.

Deepika Padukone and Vin Diesel

Months after speculations, it is finally confirmed that Deepika Padukone will star in the fourth instalment of the xXx franchise, alongside Hollywood actor Vin Diesel. Film's director DJ Caruso announced the same on Twitter after welcoming Chinese singer-actor Roy Wang to the xXx family. The director tweeted: "Welcome to the family#RoyWang!" [sic]

D.j. Caruso

✔@Deejaycar

Welcome to the family#RoyWang!

Trending Weibo@TrendingWeibo

#WangYuan lands starring role in the untitled 4th installment of #VinDiesel's xXx film franchise! Filming begins January 2019. D.J. Caruso returns to direct.#TFBOYS #RoyWang #王源

10:10 PM - Sep 2, 2018

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When a user asked him if the 'Padmaavat' star will be a part of the film, Caruso replied "Yes!"

Asked if there was any update on Deepika's shooting schedule for the film, Caruso responded to a fan, "Working it out now script being scheduled."

Deepika's foray into Hollywood had created a strong buzz. In fact, last year Diesel had made his maiden visit to India as he came down to Mumbai with Caruso and the Bollywood actress to promote xXx: Return of Xander Cage. He was welcomed with 'desi' fanfare.

The franchise began with the 2002 film xXx, which was followed by the 2005 entertainer xXx: State of the Union. The third xXx movie, featuring Deepika as Serena Unger, had grossed over $300 million worldwide.

MIDDAY.

Gary Oldman To Pen, Direct Flying Horse

Academy Award-winning actor Gary Oldman is set to write, direct and feature in his passion project, currently titled Flying Horse

Gary Oldman

Academy Award-winning actor Gary Oldman is set to write, direct and feature in his passion project, currently titled Flying Horse. The actor, 60, is returning to filmmaking over 20 years after he made his directorial debut with Nil By Mouth (1997). Oldman will play famous photographer Eadweard Muybridge, a pioneer of motion pictures, who had a troubled past. Muybridge murdered his wife's lover and was later acquitted by a jury for justifiable homicide.

Doug Urbanski and Tucker Tooley will produce the film. "We long to make good movies, and that means good stories — and there are few stories as good as these events. Launching the first feature from our newly formed production company, Flying Studios, with Tucker, makes the entire thing special for us. We could not wish for a more supportive or collaborative partner," Oldman and Urbanski said in a joint statement.

MIDDAY.

Whitney Houston Was Molested By Her Cousin

The revelation comes at the end of Whitney, a documentary on the late singer which was screened at 71st Cannes Film Festival

Whitney Houston

Whitney a documentary on late singer Whitney Houston that debuted at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival, has stated that the Grammy winner was allegedly sexually abused as a child by her cousin Dee Dee Warwick. The revelation comes at the end of the film when Houston's former longtime assistant, Mary Jones, alleges that the singer told her that she was molested as a young child by her cousin Dee Dee, the niece of Houston's mother Cissy Houston, reports ew.com.

Jones noted that Houston's alleged molestation had a lasting effect on her life. "It made her question her sexual preference," she said. On why Houston never told her mother, Jones said the late singer was probably "ashamed. If Cissy had known, she would have done something about it, because Cissy loves her children."

Gary Houston, Whitney's half-brother, also said he was sexually abused between the age of seven and nine by a female family member, in the documentary. Whitney Houston died at the age of 48 on February 11, 2012, by accidentally drowning in a bathtub following a heart attack brought on after years of substance abuse. Dee Dee Warwick died in 2008 at age of 63.

Whitney, which was made with the cooperation of Houston's estate, provides intimate insight into the late singer's personal life and struggles. The documentary also touches on other aspects of the star's troubled life, giving viewers a glimpse into her drug abuse as well as her tumultuous relationship with former-husband Bobby Brown, who also appears in it.

Whitney will be released in the US on July 6.

MIDDAY.

Emilia Clarke Says Game Of Thrones Will Have An Unexpected Ending

Emilia Clarke flew to Cannes in the midst of shooting the final season of Game of Thrones — the fantasy series that sees her playing Daenerys Targaryen

Emilia Clarke

Actor Emilia Clarke teased the fans of Game of Thrones, saying the finale of the fantasy series' last season will be different from what's being anticipated. Clarke flew to Cannes in the midst of shooting the final season of Game of Thrones — the fantasy series that sees her playing Daenerys Targaryen.

The actor attended the Cannes Film Festival with the cast of her upcoming project, Solo: A Star Wars Story. She said she was not certain how all the clashes for the Iron Throne will end. "It will be what none of us think it will be," Clarke said. Game of Thrones started with the first season back in 2011 and the final season is set to open in 2019.

Based on George RR Martin's novels, the show is about the thrilling quest to claim the Iron Throne. Clarke got emotional with the thought of the series coming to an end. "It feels like preparing to leave home... That's exciting, but it's sad and scary all at the same time," she said.

MIDDAY.

Race 3: Salman Khan And Jacqueline Fernandez's Sizzling Chemistry In Hiriye Song Teaser

Hiriye will feature the hit pairing of Salman Khan and Jacqueline Fernandez who are ready to burn the dance floor with their sizzling chemistry in Race 3 song

Salman Khan and Jacqueline Fernandez in Race 3 song

Ahead of the song's release, the makers of Race 3 treated the audience with a teaser to their very first song titled Hiriye. Hiriye will feature the hit pairing of Salman Khan and Jacqueline Fernandez who are ready to burn the dance floor with their sizzling chemistry. After sharing the first look of the song last evening, the makers have now unveiled the teaser of the oh so hot number.

Wearing a white attire paired with a netted shrug and hot pants, Jacqueline stuns in white and is all set to keep your hearts racing. While on the other hand Salman Khan is seen donning an uber cool denim jacket with a dapper avatar. The duo who are best known for their electrifying chemistry in Kick will be seen reminiscing the magic yet again with Race 3.

Hiriye is composed by Meet Bros. The song is sung by Neha Bhasin and Punjabi singer Deep Money. Starring an ensemble cast of Salman Khan, Jacqueline Fernandez, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Saquib Saleem and Daisy Shah, the action thriller is undoubtedly one of the most awaited films.

Produced by Salman Khan Films and Ramesh Taurani under the banner of Tips Industries Ltd, Race 3 is directed by Remo D'souza and will hit theatres on 15th June, 2018.

MIDDAY.

Jada Pinkett Regrets Dating 'Married' Will Smith

Jada Pinkett had a revealing, tear-filled conversation with Sheree Zampino Fletcher on her new series Red Table Talk

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett

Jada Pinkett Smith says she regrets dating her husband Will Smith in 1995 before his divorce was finalised from his first wife Sheree Zampino Fletcher. Jada Pinkett had a revealing, tear-filled conversation with Sheree on her new series Red Table Talk, reports People magazine.

"Because I did not understand marriage. I didn't understand divorce. I will say that I probably should've fell back," Jada Pinkett said. To that, Sheree replied:"You think?" Jada Pinkett later explained how it took time for her to realise that she was behaving "insensitively" and "inconsiderately" when Will Smith's marriage to Sheree was in trouble.

Jada Pinkett started dating the actor while he was still married to Sheree, with whom he shared a 3-year-old son, Trey, at the time. The 'Girls Trip' actress and Will Smith have since been married for 20 years.

MIDDAY.

Priyanka Chopra Slays, Deepika Padukone Repeats

Priyanka Chopra continued to wow world media at the Met Gala after-party in New York.

Priyanka Chopra continued to wow world media at the Met Gala after-party in New York. After her velvet gown and ornate hood red carpet appearance, PeeCee stunned in a figure-hugging outfit. She chose black and gold faux leather pants with a knotted black top.

A sling bag, blood red lips and golden hoops complimented her look. Deepika Padukone chose a golden velvet dress with black tights. It looked familiar as she had worn it with distressed jeans at Kaajal Anand's birthday party at Shah Rukh Khan's home in January this year.

Dippy was keen to make a sartorial statement that repeating clothes is okay. But not at the Met Gala events, which is considered the night of high fashion. Did she think no one would remember what she wore four months ago? Not sure what was on her mind.

MIDDAY.

Tom Cruise To Do Most Difficult Stunts In Mission: Impossible - Fallout, Says Director

Tom Cruise recently revealed that Mission: Impossible - Fallout is the most challenging movie he has ever made

Tom Cruise

Mission: Impossible - Fallout director Christopher McQuarrie has revealed that Hollywood star Tom Cruise will do his "most difficult stunts" in the upcoming film. The director said the movie will not only be high on action sequences but will also have a much deeper story.

"Without question the biggest and most difficult stunts that he's ever done. Some of the most challenging stunts he's ever done. But, also, a much deeper story. A much more emotional story," McQuarrie told Collider.

Meanwhile, Cruise recently revealed that Mission: Impossible - Fallout is the 'most challenging' movie he has ever made.

Katy Perry, Orlando Bloom 'Missed Each Other'

Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom are back again and their relationship seems stronger now

Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry

Singer Katy Perry and actor Orlando Bloom are dating "exclusively again". "Orlando and Katy are great. They are dating exclusively again and things seem more serious," a source told people.com just a day after the pair met Pope Francis in Vatican City and explored some of Rome's famed sights. "They are both excited about it and don't want to hide, but at the same time they are trying to keep privacy as well," the source added.

As for Bloom, the insider said he "seems very happy", adding, "It's obvious that they both missed each other after their split. Their relationship seems stronger now. Orlando got sick of being single. Dating different women is not so alluring to him anymore." Perry and Bloom first sparked rumours of a reconciliation earlier this year by vacationing together in the Maldives. They went sightseeing in Prague two months later.

In March, they also spent time together in Tokyo, where Perry seemingly dedicated her song "For me you see" to Bloom as he took in a show on her Witness world tour in the audience. A source had said in March that they were taking it slow following their split in February 2017.

MIDDAY.

Quantico Season 3 Preview: It's A Case Of Quantity Killing Priyanka Chopra Starrer

After parting ways from Booth three years ago, Parrish created a new life for herself

Quantico season 3 preview: First episode
Cast: Priyanka Chopra, Jake McLaughlin

The story resumes three years after Alex Parrish (Priyanka Chopra) and Ryan Booth (Jake McLaughlin) leave New York, which is where season two concluded. Neither are the former lovebirds together, nor are they part of the FBI or CIA anymore. Parrish and Booth, however, do have a mission to accomplish. Under the leadership of Owen Hall (Blair Underwood), a Black Ops team — including Parrish and Booth — is attempting to infiltrate Quantico to expose a sleeper cell threatening the US.

However, it takes some amount of negotiation to have Parrish onboard. After parting ways from Booth three years ago, Parrish created a new life for herself. Now wedded and with a child, she is forced to send her family into hiding when her past comes knocking. A kidnapping brings her in the midst of her former associates and friends. Parrish soon realises that even though she wishes to return home, her family's life will always be in danger if she is part of it.

It's rather absurd how Parrish, after being accused of espionage, parades around New York unhindered. The makers slip in that the new president has given her a clean chit – how convenient! Despite years having gone by, none of the characters seem to have changed significantly.

Even though season two kicked off on a promising note, it failed to captivate the audience as it progressed, only managing to pick up pace again towards its close. In comparison, season three begins rather listlessly. This is surprising because this edition, with a meagre 13 episodes, is comparatively shorter. Yet, should the makers focus on the mission instead of the drama, this season, which premieres today on Star World, may just manage to impress.

MIDDAY.

Richard Gere Sues Production Company

Gere says Random Acts Entertainment, owned by Scott and Anna Elias, optioned the rights to "Bones of the Master: A Buddhist Monk's Search for the Lost Heart of China" and in 2009 he entered into discussions with them about potentially acting in, dire

Richard Gere

Actor Richard Gere has filed a lawsuit against a production company, saying he is being extorted over book adaptation rights. According to the lawsuit filed on Friday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, Gere says he is being extorted for half a million dollars after creative differences arose with a producing partner, reports hollywoodreporter.com. Gere says Random Acts Entertainment, owned by Scott and Anna Elias, optioned the rights to "Bones of the Master: A Buddhist Monk's Search for the Lost Heart of China" and in 2009 he entered into discussions with them about potentially acting in, directing and producing a film adaptation of the book.

The actor says they entered into a joint producer agreement, which included that they would split the purchase price if they decided to buy the rights and Anna Elias would be allowed to write one or more drafts of the screenplay. Gere claims he paid $35,000 in 2015 but hasn't been reimbursed for the other half, and therefore, the Eliases lost all rights in the project. Gere has said the parties reached a creative impasse. "In order for Mr. Gere to commit to the Project as the star and director, Mr. Gere required that the screenplay be completed and approved," wrote attorney Jeremiah Reynolds.

"This approval right has been consistently applied to virtually all films in which Mr. Gere has starred." Elias' script was "woefully inadequate" and Gere couldn't commit to starring in the film, according to the complaint. In response, the actor says he was threatened with a lawsuit that includes insulting and defamatory claims, reports hollywoodreporter.com. "Despite Mr. Gere's efforts to make the Project a success, Defendants, who are evidently desperate for money, have recently attempted to extort Mr. Gere into paying them the sum of $500,000 to 'buyout' their interest in the Project, despite their breaches and lack of investment," stated Reynolds. Gere is suing for breach of contract and is seeking a declaration that defendants have no rights in the book or the project.

MIDDAY.

Louis Tomlinson's Special Message For Prince Louis

Singer Louis Tomlinson has vowed to take namesake Prince Louis under his wing. The former One Direction star was thrilled when Prince William and Kate announced they are naming their third child Prince Louis Arthur Charles on Friday

Louis Tomlinson

Singer Louis Tomlinson has vowed to take namesake Prince Louis under his wing. The former One Direction star was thrilled when Prince William and Kate announced they are naming their third child Prince Louis Arthur Charles on Friday, reports mirror.co.uk.

"Young Louis welcome to the world. I'll take you under my wing lad. The Adidas tracksuit is in the post," the singer tweeted. His fans rushed to comment: "He is Prince but you are King."

But Louis hasn't always had the French moniker. He was given the name by music mogul Simon Cowell at "The X Factor" audition stage because it sounded more hip that his real name Lewis.

MIDDAY.