Call it divine timing, a coincidence, or an elaborately orchestrated PR stunt, but the news of Anna Wintour stepping away from her role as editor‑in‑chief of Vogue in the same week that Disney’s 20th Century Studios confirms The Devil Wears Prada 2 has now started production is, poetic.
What’s less than poetic, and in fact tiresome at this point, is Climate Activists’ instance on faux attacks on art works. Please stope with this nonsense, before actual damage is done on priceless art.
What makes more sense to me are the protests in Venice where locals aren’t happy with Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez’s three-day wedding extravaganza. The online protests of the coverage of the wedding has been interesting for not being interesting. You can listen to my opinion on that in the video below.
We are also now on Instagram, yay. I was debating whether or not The Culturelist should exist on Instagram. First of all, its more work for me and second does it help a newsletter to exist on another more visual platform?
I had to concede with myself that the answer is yes, Instagram makes sense and yes its more work for me.
Want to make less work for me? Then follow The Culturelist on Instagram, share this newsletter to your nearest and dearest (feel free to also share to people outside that immediate circle).
And, most importantly, enjoy this week’s round up, from my DMs to yours, with the most important culture stories published between 19 - 30 June, 2025.
Enjoy.
Note: This Week was updated to include breaking news on the Diddy trail verdict.
Art
Climate Activist Douses Picasso with Pink Paint
On June 19, a member of Last Generation Canada, an environmental activist group, splashed washable pink paint on Picasso’s L’hétaïre (1901), which was protected by glass, at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. The 21-year-old protester, Marcel, cited over 250 wildfires in Canada and accused authorities of prioritising art protection over human safety. The painting sustained no damage and Marcel was arrested for mischief. You can watch the video of the attack here.
Source: Artforum, The Art Newspaper
Ai Weiwei Unveils War-Inspired Installation in Kyiv This Fall
Ai Weiwei will debut Three Perfectly Proportioned Spheres and Camouflage Uniforms Painted White at Kyiv’s Pavilion 13 this autumn, running 14 September – 30 November. The site-specific installation which features large metal spheres wrapped in white-painted camouflage fabric, inquires into themes of war, peace, and the layered realities of political conflict. The work uses da Vinci–inspired geometry and symbolic materials to challenge authoritarianism and reflect on resilience.
Source: Artnews
New EU Regulation Imposes Stringent Import Rules on Antiquities
Starting June 28, a new European Union law requires stricter documentation for importing antiquities over 200 years old valued above €18,000. Archaeological objects over 250 years old now need export permits from their country of origin. While museums support the regulation as a move against trafficking, dealers say the added bureaucracy and personal liability may stifle legitimate trade and divert activity to less regulated markets.
Source: Artnews
Glasgow's Centre for Contemporary Arts Closes Amid Pro-Palestinian Protest
The Centre for Contemporary Arts (CCA) in Glasgow temporarily shut its doors on June 24 after pro-Palestinian activists staged a sit-in. Organized by Art Workers for Palestine Scotland, the protest aimed to establish a "liberated zone" in the CCA's courtyard, featuring workshops and screenings centered on Palestinian culture and resistance. The action was in response to the CCA's refusal to endorse the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement and its rental of space to MUBI, a streaming service linked to Israeli military technology investments. Police intervened, arresting a 63-year-old woman, which led to widespread criticism from the arts community. In response, Art Workers for Palestine Scotland has called for the resignation of CCA board members and the institution's support for Palestinian solidarity initiatives.
Source: Artnews, Art Review
Romania Secures Long Term Hold on Allegedly Stolen El Greco
Romania has obtained a long‑term legal hold on El Greco’s Saint Sebastian (c. 1610–14), removed from a February Christie’s auction in New York during a dispute. Court documents have revealed that billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev bought the painting via an offshore company in 2010. Romanian officials contend the work was unlawfully taken in 1947 when King Michael I fled Communist forces. Christie’s withdrew the lot and retains it while the restitution claim proceeds.
Source: The Art Newspaper
Literature
Goodreads Under Fire as Authors Receive Negative Reviews Before Books Are Released
Authors including Jo Furniss, Milly Johnson and Kathryn Whitfield report unwarranted one or two‑star reviews on Goodreads for books not yet available, even as advance review copies. Furniss describes the experience as “soul‑destroying” and criticises Goodreads for failing to intervene despite multiple reports. The platform defends its community guidelines and says it investigating flagged reviews. Still, authors say early negative ratings can damage careers, and the site’s moderation system appears ineffective.
Source: The Bookseller
Bob Dylan to Release “Point Blank” Art Book and Audible Memoir
Bob Dylan, now 84 and Nobel Prize laureate, will publish Point Blank, a coffee-table art book featuring nearly 100 black-and-white drawings from 2021–22, including portraits, landscapes, and everyday scenes. Accompanied by prose vignettes from Eddie Gorodetsky, Jackie Hamilton and Lucy Sante, the collection showcases Dylan’s storytelling through visuals. Simultaneously, Simon & Schuster Audio will release the first unabridged audiobook of Chronicles: Volume One, narrated by Sean Penn. Both are available for preorder and set to release on November 18, 2025.
Source: Artnews
Rick Riordan Admits He's Never Seen the Films
As The Lightning Thief turns 20, Rick Riordan reflects on the humble beginnings of his blockbuster Percy Jackson series, which now spans 17 books across three trilogies. Despite the franchise’s success, from a Broadway musical to a Disney+ series, Riordan says he's never watched the 2010 and 2013 film adaptations, basing his opinions solely on their scripts. He credits the enduring power of Greek myths and emphasizes inclusivity in his characters, ensuring every reader can see themselves as heroes.
Source: People
US Courts Rule Meta and Anthropic’s Use of Books for AI Training Is “Fair Use” Despite Piracy Concerns
Two US federal courts have ruled that both Meta and Anthropic legally used copyrighted books to train their AI systems under the fair use doctrine. In Bartz v. Anthropic, Judge Alsup found that digitizing purchased books for training is transformative and lawful, but storing pirated copies isn’t protected and faces a December damages trial. These decisions mark key but limited victories amid mounting legal tensions over AI and copyright, leaving critical questions unresolved.
Source: The Bookseller
Independent Publishers Criticise Barnes & Noble’s Narrowed Buying Strategy
Independent publishers are voicing their frustrations with American bookseller Barnes & Noble's recent buying practices under CEO James Daunt. They've noticed a reduced and less diverse selection, accusing the retailer of prioritising titles from major publishing houses, the Big Five, while sidelining midlist and niche books. Daunt defended these cuts by calling certain books “boring” and noting a 20% reduction in new inventory to make room for higher-selling titles. Indies argue this limits their visibility and sales. Despite supporting B&N’s resurgence, publishers warn its current model isn’t serving smaller presses
Source: Publishers Weekly
Entertainment
‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ Starts Filming with Original Cast
Disney’s 20th Century Studios have announced that production is underway on The Devil Wears Prada 2, reuniting Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci in their iconic roles from the 2006 fashion-world classic. Kenneth Branagh joins the cast as Miranda Priestly’s husband, adding fresh dramatic weight to the sequel. Directed by David Frankel and written by Aline Brosh McKenna, the story picks up with Miranda facing the decline of print media while clashing with Emily, now a luxury brand executive. Adrian Grenier’s character, Nate, will not return. The film is set for release on May 1, 2026.
Source: Variety
Lisa Kudrow’s ‘The Comeback’ Returns for Surprise Third (and Final) Season at HBO
HBO has officially greenlit The Comeback for a third, and billed as the final season, set to premiere in 2026. Co-created by and starring Lisa Kudrow as Valerie Cherish, the cult comedy will bring back Dan Bucatinsky, Laura Silverman, and Damian Young. Sadly, Robert Michael Morris will not return following his 2017 passing. 20 years after its debut, the series once again satirizes fame and reality TV.
Source: Variety
Brad Pitt’s F1 Drives Apple’s First Big Box‑Office Win While M3GAN 2.0 Falters
Brad Pitt’s Formula 1 drama F1, produced by Apple and Warner Bros., has hit a historic $55.6 million in its U.S. opening and $144 million worldwide making it Apple’s biggest theatrical debut yet. The film’s immersive IMAX experience accounted for $28 million overseas, underscoring the draw of premium formats. Pitt plays a returning F1 legend in a Joseph Kosinski–directed race‑drama, earning him his largest career debut.
Source: Variety
Denis Villeneuve to Direct Next James Bond as Amazon MGM Takes the Reins
Amazon MGM Studios has tapped Oscar-nominated director Denis Villeneuve (Dune, Blade Runner 2049) to helm the 26th James Bond film, marking its first project since acquiring creative control from Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. Villeneuve, a lifelong 007 fan, called Bond “sacred territory” and pledged to respect its legacy while modernising future instalments. Production is expected to begin in 2026 with a likely 2027 release. Casting remains open, with several male actors in their 30s under consideration, as Amazon signals a blend of cinematic ambition and franchise reinvention.
Source: The Guardian
Kim Kardashian Cast as Villain in New Live‑Action Bratz Movie
Amazon MGM Studios is developing a new live-action Bratz film, with Kim Kardashian set to play the antagonist and also serve as a producer. The project forms part of Hollywood’s recent interest in toy-based adaptations following Barbie’s success. Written by Charlie Polinger and Lucy McKendrick, the script promises a fresh take distinct from the 2007 version. The move highlights Kardashian’s evolving screen presence, including production roles and past acting in American Horror Story.
Source: Vulture
Fashion
Anna Wintour Steps Down After 37 Years as US Vogue Editor‑in‑Chief
Dame Anna Wintour is stepping down as editor‑in‑chief of American Vogue after an influential 37‑year tenure, though she will retain her roles as Condé Nast’s Global Editorial Director and Chief Content Officer. Starting June 26, she hands daily control of the U.S. edition to a newly appointed Head of Editorial Content while continuing to oversee Vogue’s international editions, Vanity Fair, GQ, Glamour, and Wired. Wintour will remain involved in major initiatives like the Met Gala and special projects. Her decision marks a major shift in fashion media leadership.
Source: BBC
SKIMS x Roberto Cavalli Swim Collection Debuts Bold Animal Prints
SKIMS, co-founded by Kim Kardashian, has launched a limited-edition swimwear collection in collaboration with Roberto Cavalli. The 23-piece line features iconic Cavalli prints including tiger, zebra, and turquoise florals, across swimsuits, cover-ups, caftans, and accessories in sizes XXS to 4X. Shot by Nadia Lee Cohen, the retro-inspired campaign stars Kardashian and her mother, Kris Jenner. Kardashian initiated the project via Instagram DM to Cavalli’s creative director, Fausto Puglisi, aiming to combine Cavalli’s luxe heritage with SKIMS’ fit-focused design and body-positive ethos.
Source: WWD
Prada Acknowledges Kolhapuri Heritage After Backlash Over Luxury Sandal Design
Prada faced criticism after debuting sandals inspired by Kolhapuri footwear, traditional Indian sandals dating back to the 12th century, without acknowledging their origins at Milan Fashion Week. Images posted online sparked outrage among Indian artisans and politicians, accusing the luxury brand of cultural appropriation rather than crediting centuries-old craftsmanship. In response, Prada’s corporate social responsibility head, Lorenzo Bertelli, formally recognised the heritage in a letter to the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce and expressed interest in collaborating with local artisans.
Source: Reuters
Saks Gets $600 Million Lifeline, but Some Creditors Take a Hit
Saks has secured $600 million in emergency funding from bondholders to help stabilise its finances after merging with Neiman Marcus. Half the money will be paid immediately, while the rest comes through new bonds with high interest. Creditors who don’t agree to the deal risk big losses and lower chances of being repaid. Despite the cash injection, Saks is still struggling - its sales fell 10% in 2024, it lost $102 million, and owes $275 million to vendors. The funding lifts its cash reserves to about $700 million.
Source: BOF
Pop Culture
Diddy Convicted on Prostitution Charges, Acquitted of Sex Trafficking and Racketeering
A federal jury in Manhattan has found Sean “Diddy” Combs guilty on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution but acquitted him of more serious charges: sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. The guilty verdicts carry up to 10 years in prison per count, though Combs, who has been jailed since September 2024, may face a lighter sentence as a first-time offender. The trial featured powerful testimony about drug-fueled “freak‑offs” involving ex-partners Casandra Ventura, known publicly as Cassie, and “Jane,” and included graphic surveillance footage. Defense attorneys described it as an intrusion into his private life. Sentencing is scheduled for a later date.
Source: Sky News
Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Exchange Vows in Lavish Three‑Day Venice Wedding
Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez married in Venice from 26–28 June, 2025, in a multi-day spectacle that blended high fashion, celebrity glamour, and local controversy. Held on San Giorgio Maggiore and the Venetian Arsenal, the event featured performances by Matteo Bocelli and Usher, and a star-studded guest list including Oprah, the Kardashians, Leo DiCaprio, Tom Brady, and Bill Gates. Protesters voiced concerned on over tourism while the couple aimed for minimal impact and donated to local preservation efforts.
Source: Vanity Fair
Bob Vylan Chant at Glastonbury Sparks UK Police Probe and U.S. Visa Revocation
At Glastonbury Festival, punk duo Bob Vylan led a crowd in “Death to the IDF” chants during their BBC‑broadcasted set, drawing condemnation from Prime Minister Keir Starmer and festival organisers who described it as hate speech. The BBC has stated it should have cut the broadcast. Avon and Somerset Police have opened a criminal investigation into possible incitement. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department revoked Vylan’s performance visas. The incident highlights growing tensions over pro‑Palestinian activism in Europe, with other on‑stage statements sparking broader debate over free speech and violence.
Source: Variety
Beyoncé’s Flying-Car Prop Tilts Mid-Air in Houston, Prompting Concert Pause
During the Houston stop of her Cowboy Carter tour on 28 June at NRG Stadium, Beyoncé’s signature “flying” car prop malfunctioned mid-air, tilting sharply while she performed her single 16 Carriages. Calmly commanding “stop,” she halted the show, gripped a safety cable, and was safely lowered without injury, before reassuring fans: “If ever I fall, I know y’all will catch me”. Parkwood Entertainment confirmed the technical glitch and confirmed no injuries. For the next night’s show, both the car and the song were removed from the setlist.
Source: Deadline
Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom End Engagement After Nearly a Decade Together
Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom have ended their engagement after nearly 10 years together, citing demanding schedules and long-distance strain. The couple, who share a 3-year-old daughter, Daisy Dove, met in 2016, briefly split, then got engaged in 2019. Despite efforts to stay together, their careers, Perry on tour and Bloom filming, led to emotional and physical distance. A source told People the decision was mutual and amicable, with both committed to co-parenting. Bloom later posted a reflective message on Instagram referencing “a new beginning,” marking his first public comments since the split.