The year 2025 has proven to be a challenging period for journalism worldwide, with reports indicating it may be the deadliest year on record for journalists and media workers. Increased assaults on reporters have been particularly notable in the United States, where tensions between the press and the government continue to escalate. Donald Trump, now serving his second term as President, has been vocal in his criticisms of journalists, often resorting to harsh personal remarks against those who question him.
As the landscape for journalism grows increasingly perilous, the overall number of professionals in the field continues to decline. This trend raises significant concerns about the future of press freedom and the ability of journalists to operate without fear of violence or retribution.
Hong Kong Skips Fireworks for New Year Amid Tragedy
Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, the city will welcome 2026 without its traditional fireworks display over Victoria Harbour. This decision follows a devastating fire in November that claimed the lives of at least 161 individuals. In lieu of the fireworks, the city’s tourism board has organized a music show featuring notable performers, including Air Supply, scheduled for December 31. Eight landmarks will transform into giant countdown clocks, providing a light show at midnight to mark the new year.
Rosanna Law, the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, acknowledged that the absence of fireworks will likely affect local hospitality businesses. Fireworks have long been a staple of Hong Kong’s New Year celebrations, drawing large crowds to the waterfront.
Cultural Resilience in the Age of Digital Entertainment
On a different note, the ancient art of Peking opera faces its own challenges in a rapidly digitizing world. Performers like Zhang Wanting are dedicated to preserving this traditional form of entertainment. Zhang’s commitment is evident as she practices intricate moves for months on end, aiming to ensure that this centuries-old cultural treasure remains vibrant amid the dominance of digital media.
In other news, the entertainment industry mourns the loss of actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., who passed away at the age of 71 due to a short illness. His manager confirmed that he died in New York on a Tuesday. Whitlock was well-known for his role as the corrupt state senator Clay Davis in the acclaimed series “The Wire” and appeared in several films directed by Spike Lee, including “25th Hour” and “BlacKkKlansman.”
In a significant development for celebrity news, George Clooney and his wife Amal Clooney have been granted French citizenship along with their twins, Ella and Alexander. The French government’s announcement was made in the Journal Officiel last weekend. Amal, a prominent human rights lawyer, was naturalized under her maiden name, Amal Alamuddin. The Clooneys have expressed a desire to raise their children in a quieter environment, having purchased an estate in France in 2021.
Reflections on Legacy and New Beginnings
As the year closes, a new documentary titled “I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not” aims to provide an in-depth look at the life and career of comedian Chevy Chase. Directed by Marina Zenovich, the film will air on CNN on New Year’s Day and explore Chase’s journey from a troubled childhood to his rise in Hollywood. Despite his reputation for being difficult, Chase has expressed approval for the film, describing it as both painful and lovely.
Furthermore, the upcoming funeral for Brigitte Bardot is scheduled for January 7 in Saint-Tropez, where she spent much of her life. The ceremony will be broadcast in public spaces, allowing fans to pay their respects after her passing at the age of 91 on Sunday.
Finally, Yannick Nézet-Séguin is set to conduct the Vienna Philharmonic’s New Year’s Day concert, a prestigious event following his previous involvement at Carnegie Hall in 2022, where he stepped in for a banned Russian conductor. This concert is viewed by millions worldwide, marking a significant milestone in Nézet-Séguin’s career.
As 2025 draws to a close, these diverse stories reflect both the challenges and triumphs faced across various sectors, from journalism and entertainment to cultural preservation and personal legacies.
