The 51st season of Saturday Night Live continues here in 2026, with a new set of hosts and musical guests who will perform.
And if you’re here, you might be getting ready to watch SNL on Saturday night 2026 and wondering: Is it all new tonight? If not, is it a rerun? Who’s hosting?
The answer … it’s a rerun. There’s no new episode on Saturday. Per TV Guide, it’s the episode from earlier in the season in which Miles Teller was the host and Brandi Carlile was the musical guest.
Fans of late-night entertainment are gearing up for an exciting episode on January 5, 2026, as the latest host and musical guest have been officially confirmed. This episode promises a mix of engaging interviews, comedic sketches, and a standout musical performance.
The confirmed host for the evening is set to bring their signature charm and humor to the stage, offering memorable monologues and lively interactions with celebrity guests. Viewers can expect a blend of topical jokes, behind-the-scenes stories, and moments that are sure to keep audiences entertained from start to finish.
Adding to the excitement, the musical guest for the night will perform live, bringing fresh hits and possibly some fan favorites to the audience. Their performance is expected to highlight the energy and creativity that keeps viewers tuning in week after week.
As always, this episode aims to combine laughter, entertainment, and music in a way that appeals to both longtime fans and new viewers. Whether you’re watching at home or catching clips online, the January 5, 2026 episode is shaping up to be a must-see night in late-night television.
Unleashing Creativity: How AI is Transforming the Art World
Introduction
The intersection of technology and creativity has birthed a new era in the art world. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not just a tool; it is becoming a collaborator, offering artists new avenues to express their creativity and redefine the boundaries of art.
AI as a Creative Partner
With sophisticated algorithms and machine learning, AI can analyze vast amounts of data to create art that reflects a blend of human imagination and intricate programming. Artists now use AI-generated artwork as inspiration, pushing their own creative limits.
Tools and Technologies
Numerous AI tools have emerged, enabling artists to generate, edit, and enhance their work. Technologies such as DeepArt and DALL-E allow for the transformation of images and the creation of unique pieces with just a few clicks. These tools democratize art creation, making it accessible to those who may not have traditional skills.
New Mediums and Forms of Expression
AI is not only changing how art is made but also how it is experienced. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) art installations are being created using AI. These immersive experiences challenge viewers’ perceptions and invite them to interact in ways previously unimaginable.
The Debate: Art and Authenticity
The rise of AI in art has sparked a debate about authenticity and the true meaning of creativity. Can a machine create art that resonates emotionally? Artists and critics are exploring these questions, challenging the concept of authorship and the role of the artist.
Conclusion
AI is transforming the art world by expanding creative possibilities and offering new mediums for expression. While challenges and debates about authenticity remain, one thing is clear: the collaboration between AI and artists is unleashing a new wave of creativity that is here to stay. Embracing this change will be crucial for artists and art lovers alike as they navigate the future of art.
At age 68, Denise Austin is still able to fit into the same leotards and swimsuits she wore more than 30 years ago.
The fitness guru and founder of Fit Over 50 magazine continues to spill her secrets for lasting weight loss through her popular fitness app. On the platform, she provides signature workouts, wellness plans and words of encouragement.
The mother of two told Fox News Digital that she posts her then-and-now photos not to boast but to remind her followers that real, long-term results come from showing up every single day.
Denise Austin likes to model her leotards and swimsuits from the ’80s and ’90s on social media to demonstrate the power of fitness. (DeniseAustin.com)
“I saved all of my leotards from back in the day, from the ‘80s and ‘90s, which I used to wear on my videos and on my TV show,” she laughed. “I’m so happy I kept them all because [my daughter] Katie loves to wear them. My other daughter, Kelly, loves to wear them too.”
“It’s a testament to me being 68 now and keeping it up,” said Austin. “That’s all it takes, keeping it up, keeping up with your workouts. And to me, I think it’s a really cool thing. It’s nostalgic for me, and it shows me that if you do start exercising, it does matter and you’ll feel good. And it’s all about feeling good for me.”
WATCH: DENISE AUSTIN SHARES THE SIMPLE HABITS THAT KEEP HER FIT AT 68
“I want to feel healthy,” she continued. “If you have money, it doesn’t matter if you don’t have good health. And no matter who you are, you just have to do something for yourself. Did you know that just standing up burns more calories than sitting down? So I tell people to get up throughout the day. If you’re on your phone, walk and talk while you’re on the phone. The more you move, the better it is for your circulation, which also helps your whole body.”
Denise Austin told Fox News Digital she swears by walking for at least 30 minutes a day to lose weight. (DeniseAustin.com)
Austin hosted the No. 1 exercise show on television for 24 years. She has sold more than 25 million fitness tapes and DVDs, making her one of the most successful home-workout creators of all time.
According to the star, she works out 30 minutes a day, every day. She prioritizes exercising in the morning to get it done immediately. Austin pointed out that it gives her energy for the rest of the day.
Denise Austin is the creator of Fit Over 50 magazine. (DeniseAustin.com)
But her exercise routine doesn’t end once the sun rises.
“Throughout the day, I have these little squeezing-in exercises that you can do anywhere,” she explained. “Like right now, wherever you are, pull in your abdominals and tighten up the tummy muscles. Keep the abdominal muscles tight for five seconds. That’s equal to one sit-up. So you could be doing isometric exercises throughout the day. If you’re standing in line at the grocery store, squeeze your buttocks.”
Denise is the founder of DeniseAustin.com and the Denise Austin Fitness App, where she continues to motivate women with her signature workouts, wellness plans, and supportive community. (DeniseAustin.com)
“If you don’t squeeze it, no one else will,” she said with a grin.
Denise Austin works out every day for 30 minutes. (DeniseAustin.com)
The one workout Austin never skips — and urges everyone else to embrace — is simple: walking.
“Walking works,” she stressed. “It really shows results. You can walk off your weight. I tell everyone to start with a 20-minute walk. Go around the block, see how fast you can go.
Denise Austin recommended starting your day with a 10-minute walk and working your way up. (DeniseAustin.com)
“Do two blocks next week. Always increase it. Ultimately, it’s best to do a 30-minute walk. Then you work in your heart, you’re burning fat, you’re seeing a difference in your weight loss. Thirty minutes is science-backed. You will see a difference if you do it regularly, at least three days a week. You have to do it three days a week.”
Denise Austin has kept all of her leotards and swimsuits from decades ago. Her daughters now love to wear them. (DeniseAustin.com)
“I try to walk almost every single day,” she said. “I love to get out and walk. It’s great for your mind. It helps your mood, it improves your attitude, and you just feel better. And when I walk with my daughters, they talk more, they share more. You just feel free when you’re out walking.”
Austin advised that if you want to boost your walking routine, add some stretching when you’re home and even dedicate five minutes to weights.
Denise Austin attends the 2024 ESPY Awards at Dolby Theatre on July 11, 2024, in Hollywood, California. (Amy Sussman/WireImage/Getty Images)
“Then you’ll have a complete cardio workout,” she said. “Heart disease is the number one killer for us women. Exercising is so great for you. And of course, conditioning your muscles helps with stretching for flexibility.
Denise Austin and her daughter Katie Austin teach a total body workout during the Wellness Your Way Festival at the Colorado Convention Center on Aug. 16, 2019, in Denver. (Tom Cooper/Getty Images for Wellness Your Way Festival)
“I have some days when I dedicate myself to stretching. Other days are for walking. Some days are for weights. So if you can line up your week with all three components of a well-balanced workout, it really makes a difference. You’ll lose inches, tighten up your tummy, and you’ll just feel so much better.”
At age 65, Austin walked the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway show in Miami. She still calls it the “thrill of my life.” Austin was accompanied by her daughter Katie, an SI Swimsuit model and fitness influencer.
Denise Austin told Fox News Digital she skipped the chips and guacamole, along with red wine, for two weeks ahead of walking the SI Swimsuit runway. (John Parra/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit)
“I was 65 in a bikini!” she said. “I really did watch a lot of calories for two weeks. They just told me two weeks before my walk. So, I only had two weeks to prepare. I didn’t do chips and guacamole for two weeks. I didn’t do my red wine. I just really ate as well as I could for two weeks. But that was a once-in-a-lifetime situation. I don’t do that anymore. I enjoy my wine and food, and it’s a part of my life.”
Denise Austin told Fox News Digital she always has fresh fruits and vegetables at home. (DeniseAustin.com)
In addition to staying active, Austin emphasized the importance of clean eating centered on fresh, whole foods. She prefers preparing meals at home, but when she and her husband head out for a date night, they keep things balanced by sharing a dish or dessert.
WATCH: DENISE AUSTIN SAYS FITNESS IS KEY EVEN WITH WEIGHT-LOSS SHOTS
“Food is medicine — the right foods,” said Austin. “It’s a part of taking care of your body. And portions do matter. When you’re out grocery shopping, make sure you read the labels. I’m not into a lot of ingredients, things you can’t pronounce. I prefer lots of fruits and vegetables. I have avocado in the morning with my eggs. I like to have cottage cheese now with some chia seeds on top and blueberries.
Denise Austin told Fox News Digital it’s never too late to start or try again, regardless of your age. (DeniseAustin.com)
“If you could shop in the perimeter of the grocery store, that’s usually the healthiest foods, from produce to healthy meats,” she noted. “And I’m a big believer in balance. I have good carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables. I make sure I have protein in every meal. Protein, as you age, is so important. And I’m a real believer in fiber and drinking plenty of water.”
At age 65, Denise Austin joined her daughter Katie Austin at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway show in Miami. (John Para/Getty Images)
It’s never too late to start or try again, she insisted.
“If you haven’t exercised in a long time, and let’s just say you’re 68, like me, the best thing that I would tell everybody is to start small but start now. This is where your health can go either way. You can join my program, go to the gym or just go for a walk. It doesn’t matter. Just make a plan.”
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A powerful New Year’s Day storm brought heavy rainfall to San Diego, triggering flooding across several neighborhoods and disrupting daily life as residents rang in the new year. What began as a day of celebration quickly turned into a challenge for communities grappling with waterlogged streets, damaged property, and mounting frustration.
Heavy Rainfall Brings Widespread Disruptions
Persistent rain overwhelmed drainage systems in low-lying areas, leading to flooded roads and temporary closures. Commuters faced delays, while some residents reported water seeping into homes and businesses. Emergency crews worked through the day responding to calls, assisting stranded motorists, and monitoring areas most vulnerable to rising water levels.
The storm’s timing added to the strain. With many people traveling or hosting gatherings, the sudden shift from celebration to crisis heightened stress across the city.
Community Frustration and Rising Tensions
As floodwaters spread, tensions rose among affected residents. Concerns surfaced over infrastructure preparedness, stormwater management, and the speed of response efforts. Some locals expressed frustration about recurring flooding during major rain events, calling for long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.
Social media became a hub for sharing images, warnings, and personal accounts, amplifying both the sense of solidarity and the growing impatience over repeated weather-related disruptions.
Emergency Response and City Efforts
City officials urged residents to avoid flooded areas, emphasizing safety as the top priority. Crews were deployed to clear storm drains, redirect traffic, and provide updates as conditions evolved. While no major injuries were reported in initial updates, authorities warned that conditions could change rapidly if rainfall continued.
Officials also reminded residents that winter storms are an ongoing risk and encouraged preparedness measures, including emergency kits and awareness of evacuation routes in flood-prone zones.
Looking Ahead After the Storm
As waters gradually receded, attention turned to cleanup and assessment. For many, the storm served as a stark reminder of the city’s vulnerability to extreme weather events. Community leaders and residents alike renewed calls for improved infrastructure and climate resilience planning to better protect neighborhoods in the future.
The 35-year-old actress and her wife were dressed casually while heading out for a morning walk with their dog in Los Feliz, Calif., on Sunday
Keep reading to find out more…
Kristen opted for a white sweatshirt and matching sweatpants, while Dylan wore a black graphic sweatshirt featuring what appeared to be the band Wolf Eyes’ Burned Mind album cover, paired with black leggings and sneakers.
Kristen Stewart and Dylan Meyer Stroll Through Los Feliz
Kristen Stewart and Dylan Meyer were recently spotted enjoying a leisurely stroll through the scenic streets of Los Feliz, Los Angeles, in a rare public appearance that caught fans’ attention. The couple looked relaxed and content, sharing quiet moments together while taking in the neighborhood’s charming vibe.
A Casual Day Out in Los Feliz
The outing showcased a more laid-back side of the Oscar-nominated actress and her partner. Kristen Stewart kept her look effortlessly chic with a casual ensemble, while Dylan Meyer complemented the relaxed vibe, making the stroll a fashionable yet low-key affair.
Fans and photographers alike were quick to capture snapshots of the couple, highlighting their comfortable chemistry and affectionate demeanor. The couple’s outing comes amid a busy schedule for Stewart, who has been juggling film projects and public appearances, making moments like these a rare glimpse into their personal life.
Embracing Everyday Moments
Despite their high-profile status, Stewart and Meyer seem to value normalcy and simple pleasures. Walks through neighborhoods like Los Feliz allow them to enjoy some privacy while staying connected to the city they call home.
Fans React
Social media quickly reacted to the couple’s stroll, with fans sharing photos and expressing delight at seeing Stewart and Meyer enjoying a relaxed day out. Many praised the couple for keeping their relationship low-key yet endearing, showing that even celebrities can appreciate ordinary moments.
A Snapshot of Love and Normalcy
Kristen Stewart and Dylan Meyer’s stroll through Los Feliz is a reminder that love and connection often shine brightest in simple, everyday moments. For fans, it’s a heartwarming glimpse of the couple outside the red carpet, showing their down-to-earth side and genuine affection for each other.
Exploring the Role of AI in Climate Change Solutions
Introduction
As the planet faces unprecedented climate challenges, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into climate change solutions has emerged as a beacon of hope. AI, with its capability to analyze vast amounts of data and generate predictive models, is revolutionizing how we understand and combat climate change. This article explores the various roles AI plays in addressing environmental issues, enhancing sustainability efforts, and paving the way toward a greener future.
Understanding AI’s Potential
AI technologies, including machine learning, data analytics, and natural language processing, have the potential to enhance climate modeling, improve energy efficiency, and develop smarter agricultural practices. By analyzing data from satellites, sensors, and other sources, AI can provide insights that are critical for decision-making processes.
1. Climate Modeling and Prediction
AI enhances climate models by analyzing complex datasets to predict weather patterns and climate impacts more accurately. For instance, machine learning algorithms can process historical weather data alongside current satellite observations to forecast climate changes and extreme weather events, allowing governments and organizations to prepare more effectively.
2. Energy Efficiency
AI can optimize energy consumption in buildings and manufacturing processes. Smart energy management systems utilize AI to predict energy needs, reduce waste, and transition to renewable energy sources. This not only decreases carbon footprints but also lowers operational costs.
3. Sustainable Agriculture
In agriculture, AI technologies are applied to optimize crop yields while minimizing environmental impacts. Precision farming tools, driven by AI, can analyze soil health, weather forecasts, and crop conditions to provide farmers with actionable insights, helping them use resources more efficiently (e.g., water, fertilizers).
Innovative Applications of AI
From carbon capture to wildlife conservation, AI is being harnessed in various innovative ways:
1. Carbon Capture and Storage
AI is being used to enhance carbon capture technologies, identifying optimal locations for carbon storage and maximizing the efficiency of capture processes.
2. Biodiversity Monitoring
AI tools analyze images and sounds in nature to monitor wildlife populations, predict migrations, and detect poaching incidents, thereby assisting conservation efforts.
3. Climate Policy Development
AI aids policymakers in developing effective climate strategies by simulating the potential outcomes of different policies and assessing their impacts on carbon emissions and economic performance.
The Challenges Ahead
Despite its potential, the use of AI in climate solutions is not without challenges. Data privacy issues, the need for high-quality datasets, and the energy demands of AI models must be considered. Additionally, ensuring equitable access to AI technologies is crucial to prevent widening the gap between developed and developing nations.
Conclusion
Artificial intelligence offers transformative possibilities in our fight against climate change. By leveraging its capabilities, we can enhance our responses to environmental challenges, promote sustainable practices, and foster a greener future. Collaboration between technologists, environmental scientists, and policymakers will be essential in harnessing AI’s full potential for the planet.
Breaking Down Bias: How to Develop Fair AI Systems
The advent of artificial intelligence has provided numerous benefits across various sectors. However, it has also raised serious concerns regarding bias and fairness. AI systems can inadvertently perpetuate and amplify existing biases present in the data they are trained on. This article will explore the mechanisms behind bias in AI and provide strategies for developing fair AI systems.
Understanding Bias in AI
Bias in AI can manifest in various forms, including:
Data Bias: This occurs when the training data used to develop AI models is unrepresentative of the broader population or contains prejudiced assumptions.
Algorithmic Bias: This arises from the algorithms themselves, which may favor certain groups over others due to their design.
User Bias: Bias can also originate from the way users interact with AI systems, reinforcing existing stereotypes.
Why Fairness Matters
Developing fair AI systems is crucial for several reasons:
Ethical Responsibility: Organizations have a moral obligation to ensure that their technologies do not harm vulnerable populations.
Legal Compliance: With increasing regulations surrounding AI, companies must adhere to fairness guidelines to avoid legal repercussions.
Improved Outcomes: Fair AI systems are likely to produce better outcomes and meet the needs of a diverse population.
Strategies for Developing Fair AI Systems
1. Diverse Data Collection
Ensuring that training data is diverse and representative is one of the most effective ways to reduce bias. This includes collecting data from various demographic groups, geographies, and contexts.
2. Transparency and Explainability
A fair AI system should be transparent and provide explanations for its decisions. This can help identify any unintended biases and foster trust among users.
3. Regular Audits and Testing
Conducting regular audits and tests for bias in AI systems can help organizations identify and correct biases over time. This should include assessments with different datasets and performance metrics.
4. Multi-Disciplinary Collaboration
Involving experts from various fields—ethics, sociology, technology—can provide diverse perspectives that may help uncover biases that a single discipline might overlook.
5. Stakeholder Involvement
Engaging stakeholders, including the communities affected by AI systems, can provide insights into their concerns and needs, improving the fairness of the final product.
Conclusion
As AI continues to evolve, it is imperative that developers prioritize fairness and eliminate bias in their systems. By understanding the roots of bias and adopting proactive strategies, we can build AI systems that not only serve but empower everyone in society.
The best news is that Fraser isn’t coming back to the Mummy franchise alone, and his best love interest is also coming back with him. Outside the two leads, there are no other confirmed returning stars, although there are some rumors of others coming back, with the idea that The Mummy 4 will bring fun back to the franchise.
Brendan Fraser As Rick O’Connell
Brendan Fraser aiming a gun as Rick O’Connell in The Mummy
The first guaranteed name returning to The Mummy cast is Brendan Fraser as Rick O’Connell. He has also done interviews and is very excited about returning to the franchise. In his discussion about the film, he said that the reason Tom Cruise’s movie failed is that it tried to be straight horror, and Mummy films need to be fun.
That speaks volumes, and it shows that fans who loved the original Mummy movies should have the same feel as those first two movies. There was also talk that this would follow the first two installments and ignore the third. Fraser also said that he’s making the story he wanted after those first two films.
According to Fraser, the third movie had Rick go to China simply to tie in with the Olympics that year. However, he considers it a standalone film and not part of the series. Now, he said he has a chance to continue the original story with The Mummy 4.
Rick O’Connell was the hero from the three main Mummy movies, a treasure hunter in the design of Indiana Jones, but one who has to deal with a resurrected mummy named Imhotep, and who has to fight for his life when he encounters this supernatural being on a recent expedition.
At the end of The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, he and his wife, Evelyn, joined their son Alex (Luke Ford) to find Shangri-La. It is unclear if this version of their son will exist in the new movie, as it might ignore this third film in the series.
Rachel Weisz As Evelyn O’Connell
Brenda Fraser and Rachel Weisz as Rick and Evelyn, hugging in The Mummy
The best news about The Mummy 4 cast is that Rachel Weisz will be back as Evelyn O’Connell. In the first film, Weisz played Evelyn Carnahan, Rick’s love interest, a British librarian and Egyptologist at the Cairo Museum of Antiquities. She and her brother, Jonathan, accompany Rick as he heads to the lost city of Hamunaptra in the first film.
Weisz was back in the second movie as Evelyn O’Connell, now married to Rick and with a young son. However, they end up back on a new adventure when she learns she is the reincarnation of the Egyptian princess Nefertiri, the daughter of the Pharaoh whom Imhotep and Anck-su-namun killed. This plays into classic Mummy movie tropes.
What disappointed most fans is that Weisz left the franchise, and Maria Bello replaced her in The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor. With The Mummy 4 possibly ignoring that film, there is no telling where Evelyn and Rick are in their lives, but the fact that Weisz is returning as Evelyn is exciting for fans of the original films.
No matter what her relationship status with Rick is, the return of Rachel Weisz fixes one of the biggest complaints from The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor. Recasting her role was a mistake, and no matter how great Maria Ballo is, she couldn’t replicate the chemistry that Weisz had with Fraser in the first two films.
John Hannah Rumored As Jonathan Carnahan
John Hannah as Jonathan with an artifact in The Mummy
With Rachel Weisz returning as Evelyn O’Connell in The Mummy 4,there is a good chance that John Hannah could also return as her brother, Jonathan Carnahan, although this is not yet confirmed. However, out of all the original cast members, Hannah is the name that has come up the most in casting rumors.
This is one of the most important returns after Fraser and Weisz because he was the perfect bumbling sidekick and was a great source of comic relief during the action-adventure movie. His banter with the other characters was also always fun, and it would be weird to see Evelyn without her brother being close by.
Jonathan was last seen in The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, and unlike Rick and Evelyn, he wanted to be nowhere near any mummies or other supernatural entities. However, somehow dragging him back into another adventure could add to the entertainment value of The Mummy 4, and he is someone who needs to return for this film.
Arnold Vosloo Rumored As Imhotep
Patricia Velásquez and Arnold Vosloo as Anck-su-namun and Imhotep in The Mummy Returns
Every Mummy movie needs a villain, and one rumored idea is for The Mummy 4 to bring back its original villain. The best thing about a film like this is that returning someone who was already beaten and who is dead is easy, since they were also dead before they arrived in the first movie in the franchise.
Arnold Vosloo played the mummy Imhotep in the first two movies. In mythology, he was a High Priest of Osiris in 12900 BC and ended up cursed to be a mummy when he tried to revive Pharaoh Seti’s mistress, Anck-su-namun. He last appeared in the second film, but in the third, Rick said he “put him down twice.”
That second film ended with Anck-su-namun betraying Imhotep, so he allowed himself to be cast into the pit of the Underworld. Having Imhotep back for one more battle with Rick O’Connell could make this worth the price of admission on its own.
Someone who hasn’t been mentioned was Patricia Velásquez as Anck-su-namun. Her story connecting her with Evelyn (who was reincarnated as the former secret lover of Imhotep) ended in The Mummy Returns. Unlike Imhotep, who went into the Underworld, she fell into a pit of scorpions and died.
Oded Fehr Rumored As Ardeth Bay
Oded Fehr as Ardeth Bay in The Mummy
Much like how John Hannah needs to return as Jonathan Carnahan for comic relief, Oded Fehr also needs to return as a connection to the adventures that Rick O’Connell and Evelyn go on together. What is most disappointing about Ardeth Bay is that he never appeared in The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, and there was no explanation.
Ardeth Bay was the leader of the Medjai, a group of nomadic protectors who served since the days of the pharaohs. His job in the first movie was to prevent the resurrection of Imhotep at all costs. However, he chose not to kill Rick, Evelyn, and Jonathan, and instead worked as an ally to stop Imhotep.
In The Mummy Returns, Bay was back because he needed to stop the release of the Scorpion King, and then he had to help fight Imhotep, who was back again with Anck-su-namun. He never showed up in the third movie, which made sense because that film had nothing to do with Imhotep.
That said, there have been social media rumors spreading that claim that Oded Fehr is returning for the new movie. Fehr has said in the past that he would be interested in coming back if there was another Mummy movie, and his return could go a long way in making this more of a reunion than a loosely based sequel.
If Imhotep does return as the villain in The Mummy 4 cast, the film would have to bring back Ardeth Bay, because he remains tied with that legend, and seeing him back and fighting alongside Rick O’Connell again would be a great treat for fans of the franchise.
Dwayne Johnson Rumored As The Scorpion King
Dwayne Johnson as The Scorpion King in The Mummy spinoff movie.
That appearance was also heavily derided thanks to the almost video game-like animation his character undertook, which looked terrible. He did get a better chance to show his worth in the spinoff movie, The Scorpion King, although that story didn’t match up to the first two Mummy movies, concerning box office or critical acclaim.
Having Dwayne Johnson back could be risky. After years of being portrayed as a good guy in Hollywood, recent projects have shown him becoming very possessive and dominating, and the last thing The Mummy 4 needs is someone on the set who is trying to make demands. This needs to remain Brendan Fraser’s movie.
Having Dwayne Johnson in a significant role in the new Mummy movie would be a mistake, but having him show up in a small cameo appearance, or as a minor character, at best, could be a fun callback for fans of the original Mummy movies. Regardless, Johnson would provide more star power for The Mummy 4 cast.
Understanding Machine Learning: The Backbone of Modern AI
Introduction
In the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) stands as a pivotal element that empowers systems to learn from data and improve over time without being explicitly programmed. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of machine learning—its definitions, types, applications, and significance in modern AI.
What is Machine Learning?
Machine learning is defined as a subset of AI that enables systems to learn from data. It involves the use of algorithms and statistical models that analyze and draw inferences from patterns found in data. The primary goal of ML is to develop systems that can perform tasks autonomously, based on learned experience.
Types of Machine Learning
1. Supervised Learning
In supervised learning, models are trained on labeled data, meaning each training example is paired with an output label. The algorithm learns to associate the input with the corresponding output through various techniques such as regression and classification.
2. Unsupervised Learning
Unlike supervised learning, unsupervised learning works with unlabeled data. The algorithm seeks to find hidden patterns or intrinsic structures within the input data. Common techniques include clustering and association.
3. Reinforcement Learning
Reinforcement learning involves training models to make a sequence of decisions by rewarding desired outcomes and penalizing undesired ones. This type of learning is akin to teaching a dog new tricks.
Applications of Machine Learning
Machine learning has a diverse range of applications across various sectors, including:
Healthcare: Predictive analytics for patient diagnoses and personalized treatment plans.
Finance: Algorithmic trading and fraud detection.
Retail: Recommendation systems for personalized shopping experiences.
Transportation: Optimization of routes and self-driving cars.
The Significance of Machine Learning in AI
The advancements in machine learning have been fundamental to the evolution of AI. It enables machines to adapt to new situations, learn from past experiences, and make data-driven decisions. As data generation continues to proliferate, the role of machine learning in making sense of this data is even more critical.
Conclusion
In summary, machine learning is not just a buzzword; it is a foundational technology that is driving innovation across multiple sectors. Understanding its principles and applications can empower individuals and organizations to harness the power of AI effectively.
This wasn’t the original plan. We were supposed to be playing Grand Theft Auto 6 right now, ripping through Vice City on a sun-drenched Bonnie-and-Clyde-style crime spree. GTA 6’s first trailer promised back in December 2023 that we’d get the long-awaited follow-up to Grand Theft Auto 5 sometime in 2025.
But two delays — one that shifted GTA 6’s release date to May 2026, and another that kicked the can to November 2026 — has resulted in a year without the 2025’s most-anticipated game. Its absence was certainly felt. Fans of Rockstar Games have had to sustain themselves on new content for Grand Theft Auto Online and Red Dead Online, and rereleases of the original Red Dead Redemption.
There was little good news on the GTA 6 front this year, with the one exception that Rockstar Games felt the need to spend more time making its next game and that publisher Take-Two Interactive agreed. Ultimately, the delays should mean a better playing, more stable game when GTA 6 eventually launches.
But double delays for GTA 6 have also eroded confidence that the game’s third announced release window will stick. Will 2026 actually be the year we get Grand Theft Auto 6, or should we hope the world continues to turn until at least 2027?
GTA 6 in 2025: What did and didn’t happen
Image: Rockstar Games
Officially, the infamously tight-lipped Rockstar Games only communicated a pair of delays for Grand Theft Auto 6. In May, Rockstar confirmed the game wouldn’t make 2025, putting a definitive release date on GTA 6: May 26, 2026.
“We are very sorry that this is later than you expected,” Rockstar said in a statement at the time. “The interest and excitement surrounding a new Grand Theft Auto has been truly humbling for our entire team. We want to thank you for your support and your patience as we work to finish the game.
“With every game we have released, the goal has always been to try and exceed your expectations, and Grand Theft Auto VI is no exception. We hope you understand that we need this extra time to deliver at the level of quality you expect and deserve.”
That announcement sent a message to other video game publishers: Stay out of the way, and don’t release your game anywhere near May 2026. And that month is looking pretty light right now in terms of other game releases. Only a handful of games are confirmed for that window, including Paralives (in early access), 007 First Light, and Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight. With the exception of IO Interactive’s James Bond game, those other titles don’t really overlap with GTA 6’s expected audience. But remember that 007 First Light was originally expected in March 2026, and with GTA 6 delayed beyond May, IO Interactive had an open window in which to release its new game.
In November of this year, Rockstar dropped some more bad news: GTA 6 was being delayed again, now to Nov. 19, 2026 — basically a full year after the original expected drop date for the game.
“We are sorry for adding additional time to what we realize has been a long wait, but these extra months will allow us to finish the game with the level of polish you have come to expect and deserve,” Rockstar said at the time. “We want to thank you again for your patience and support. While the wait is a little longer, we are incredibly excited for players to experience the sprawling state of Leonida and a return to modern day Vice City.”
Once again, Rockstar has given other publishers a heads up: The holiday 2026 shopping season belongs to Grand Theft Auto, so plan your 2026 Call of Duty, Halo, and Tomb Raider releases appropriately.
As for another potential slip on GTA 6’s release date? Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick told Gameindustry.biz that the publisher is “confident in the date, that’s why we set it.”
Grand Theft Auto 6’s absence in 2026 was obvious in a few ways. For one, traditional spending on video games was down in November, a pretty bad month for the industry compared to previous years. According to data from market research firm Circana, video game hardware spending was down 27% year over year, the lowest hardware spending total for November since 2005. And while software spending in November was up 1% year over year, physical software sales dipped 14% for the worst November since 1995.
There are a confluence of factors at play here, including increased hardware prices and a general decrease in physical software purchases. Still, one has to wonder: Would GTA 6’s originally fall 2025 launch plan have resulted in a very different story? (Another unknown: What impact will potentially even higher prices on PlayStation 5 and Xbox consoles in 2026 have on Grand Theft Auto 6’s sales? And with Xbox sales flagging, does it now make sense to fast-track a PC release of GTA 6?)
The fall release season wasn’t exactly light on games. If anyone stayed out of GTA 6’s way, it didn’t strongly reflect in the sheer number of titles released in October and November, which saw AAA fare like Ghost of Yotei, Battlefield 6, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, The Outer Worlds 2, Arc Raiders, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, and hundreds more games hit the market.
GTA 6 impacted the industry in another, much more concerning way. In November, Rockstar reportedly terminated some 40 workers, within days of GTA 6’s latest delay. The game developer alleged that those workers were leaking company secrets, but former staffers say they were targeted as part of their efforts to unionize the studio. Anonymous sources at the studio said the firings severely impacted morale at Rockstar Games. ”When we should be excited about what’s to come over the next year we are now totally deflated and our trust and confidence in others is totally shot,” one former employee said on the unofficial GTA Forums.
Impact on GOTY
Image: Rockstar Games
In January, when Grand Theft Auto 6 was still theoretically a 2025 release, we pondered, “Can anything beat GTA 6 for Game of the Year 2025?” while noting that “the biggest threat to GTA 6 taking every GOTY prize in 2025 is Rockstar’s ability to finish it in time.”
It was a reasonable question to ask. While The Last of Us was the standout GOTY darling of 2013, Grand Theft Auto 5 won multiple Game of the Year awards at release, including at Edge, Time, the Golden Joystick Awards, and the Spike Video Game Awards (the predecessor to The Game Awards). Big narrative AAA games like Grand Theft Auto are GOTY awards bait, so its chances would have been very good in 2025.
But GTA 6 as GOTY 2025 was not meant to be. Instead, role-playing game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 won big this year, nabbing Game of the Year recognition at outlets like IGN and GameSpot, and at events like the Golden Joysticks and The Game Awards. At the latter, Clair Obscur broke records, earning nine trophies.
Awards season might have looked very different if Rockstar’s original plan stuck. The upside is this, though: Grand Theft Auto 6 is now the recipient of back-to-back Most Anticipated Game recognition at The Game Awards, “winning” in 2024 and 2025. No doubt Rockstar isn’t hoping for a three-peat in 2026, which is now looking a little… chaotic.
Again, we’re playing a game of “What if?” when it comes to GTA 6’s impact on the game industry and who wins game of the year, a thought exercise we won’t have to do next year. (Hopefully.)
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