Venice News Today — August 18, 2026
Shakira Pledges $1.25 Million to Rebuild Schools Damaged by Earthquake in Colombia and more — today's venice signal.
The world of entertainment and philanthropy is buzzing today, with a mix of big-name donations, box office battles, and exciting new releases. In a heartwarming display of commitment to her roots, global superstar Shakira has pledged $1.25 million to help rebuild schools damaged by a recent earthquake in Colombia, highlighting the impact that artists can have on their communities. Meanwhile, the cinematic landscape is heating up, with ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ and ‘The Odyssey’ vying for top spot at the U.K. and Ireland box office, and a new ‘Friday the 13th’ prequel series promising to deliver plenty of thrills and chills.
From the world of television, fans of ‘Gilmore Girls’ are in for a treat with the launch of a new Little People collectible set that brings the charming town of Stars Hollow to life. In other entertainment news, streaming giant Peacock is testing a new membership rewards program, offering perks such as discounts on NBCU and Bravo merchandise, as well as free pizzas. However, not all deals are going smoothly - California's Attorney General has rejected a $1.88 billion bond for Paramount, citing the company's desire to revisit a merger delay. With all this and more, there's never been a more exciting time to be a fan of culture, style, and media.
Today's signal:
• Shakira Pledges $1.25 Million to Rebuild Schools Damaged by Earthquake in Colombia (rollingstone.com)
• ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day,’ ‘The Odyssey’ Continue Tussle Atop U.K., Ireland Box Office (variety.com)
• ‘Friday the 13th’ Prequel Series ‘Crystal Lake’ Is ‘Gory’ and ‘Gross’ With ‘Blood Everywhere,’ Says Star Linda Cardellini (variety.com)
• The New ‘Gilmore Girls’ Little People Collectible Set Is Bringing Stars Hollow to Your Shelf (rollingstone.com)
• California A.G. Rejects $1.88 Billion Paramount Bond, Says Company Wants a ‘Do-Over’ on Merger Delay (variety.com)
• Peacock Launches Test of Membership Rewards Program With Perks Including NBCU and Bravo Merch Discounts, Free Pizzas (variety.com)