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Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan has opened up about the uncomfortable reality of body-shaming that followed her rise to global fame through the Netflix series. Known for playing Penelope Featherington in the Regency drama, the actress recently spoke candidly about how conversations around her body often overshadowed the effort she poured into the show. In an interview with Elle UK, Coughlan recalled how strange it felt to see people label her as “plus-size” while she was actually working intensely on her physical fitness during filming. 

She revealed that while shooting the series, she had been exercising frequently and had lost a noticeable amount of weight. At the time, she said she was roughly a size 10, while one of the corsets she wore for the show was a size 8. Despite that, she was still described as plus-size by viewers and commentators, something that left her questioning the industry’s perception of women’s bodies. 

The actress admitted the commentary felt deeply frustrating. For her, the bigger issue was how quickly the conversation shifted away from her work as an actor. She explained that projects like Bridgerton require months of dedication, long hours on set, and time away from family. After committing so much energy to a role, it was disheartening to see the discussion reduce everything to her appearance rather than her performance. 

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Coughlan also recalled an awkward moment with a fan that perfectly captured the discomfort she often feels around such discussions. She described an encounter with a drunk woman in a bathroom who enthusiastically praised the show but immediately began talking about Coughlan’s body rather than the story or the character. The experience, she said, made her feel extremely uncomfortable and highlighted how easily actors can be reduced to their physical image instead of their craft. 

While the actress understands that audiences connect with characters in different ways, she made it clear that constant commentary about her body is something she finds exhausting. For Coughlan, the focus should ultimately be on the work itself. As Bridgerton continues to dominate global streaming conversations, her message serves as a reminder that behind every viral moment and trending series is an actor who wants to be recognized for their talent rather than their body.

After months of anticipation, Robert Pattinson and Zendaya have officially started the press tour for their upcoming film The Drama, and fans are already calling it one of the most refreshing promotional runs of the season. The two stars recently appeared together to promote the film, and their chemistry immediately caught the internet’s attention. Both actors looked effortlessly stylish during the appearance, but it was their natural dynamic that really stood out. Instead of the overly polished or staged interactions often seen during movie promotions, their conversation felt relaxed and genuine.

Throughout the interview, Pattinson and Zendaya appeared comfortable joking with each other and sharing moments that suggested a real friendship behind the scenes. The ease between them quickly sparked excitement online, with fans praising how authentic the interaction felt compared to the more scripted press tours audiences have grown used to during awards and film promotion seasons.

Z in The Row#styledbyLAW https://t.co/C9ZkYBJeEa pic.twitter.com/63gSRSFYBP

— LAW ROACH (@LUXURYLAW) March 5, 2026

Press tours often come with carefully curated moments designed to create viral clips or headlines. Because of that, many viewers feel the chemistry between co-stars can sometimes appear forced. In contrast, Pattinson and Zendaya’s dynamic felt spontaneous, with their humor and reactions coming across as completely natural.

The pairing itself has already generated plenty of interest. Pattinson, best known for films like The Batman and Twilight, has built a reputation for his dry wit and unpredictable interview style. Zendaya, meanwhile, continues to dominate both film and television with projects like Euphoria and Dune. Seeing the two together in a press setting is already shaping up to be a highlight of the promotional cycle.

As more interviews and appearances roll out, fans are expecting plenty more entertaining moments from the duo. If the first stop on the press tour is any indication, Pattinson and Zendaya might just deliver one of the most memorable and genuinely fun promotional runs in recent memory.

With the spotlight now fully on The Drama, audiences will soon get to see whether their on screen chemistry matches the effortless dynamic they are already showing off during press.

The much-awaited trailer of Aspirants Season 3 has finally been released, offering fans a dramatic glimpse into the next chapter of the popular series. Known for its realistic portrayal of the UPSC preparation journey, the show now moves beyond the classroom struggles of Mukherjee Nagar into a more complex phase where ambition, power and unresolved past conflicts collide. The new season features returning actors Naveen Kasturia, Shivankit Singh Parihar, Abhilash Thapliyal, Sunny Hinduja, Namita Dubey and Tengam Celine, while also introducing Jatin Goswami in a key role that promises to reshape the narrative.

The trailer immediately sets a tense tone as Sunny Hinduja’s character delivers a powerful and chilling line: “I have a Brahmastra. If I unleash that, DM Abhilash won’t escape this time.” This opening moment hints at a major confrontation and suggests that the upcoming season will explore deeper political and personal conflicts. The story shifts between the past and the present, revisiting the early days of Naveen Kasturia’s character as a determined UPSC aspirant in Delhi’s Mukherjee Nagar, one of the most famous hubs for civil services preparation in India.

During these early days, Naveen’s character is shown preparing intensely for the prestigious civil services examination. His determination is captured in a confident declaration: “I have to clear the IAS this year, no matter what.” The trailer also revisits his close friendships with characters played by Abhilash Thapliyal and Shivankit Singh Parihar. Their bond, formed during the demanding and stressful preparation period, has always been one of the emotional pillars of the series. The show highlights how these friendships were built on shared struggles, long study sessions and the emotional pressure that comes with pursuing one of India’s toughest competitive exams.

However, Season 3 introduces a new dynamic that challenges the ideals and attitudes of the past. During his time as an aspirant, Naveen’s character is shown mentoring other UPSC candidates. At one point, he refuses to train a candidate played by Jatin Goswami, dismissing him because of his weak command of English. Believing that mentoring someone from a Hindi-medium background would be a “waste of time,” Naveen turns him away. This moment becomes a crucial turning point in the story and highlights the larger social issue of language bias that often exists in competitive academic spaces.

The narrative then jumps forward in time, revealing that Goswami’s character has successfully cleared the UPSC examination despite the earlier rejection. Now holding a position of authority, he carries the memory of that discrimination with him. Determined to challenge the system, he sets out to ensure that no Hindi-medium aspirant faces the same prejudice he once experienced. This storyline introduces a powerful theme of justice, empowerment and the reversal of power dynamics.

As the plot unfolds, Naveen’s character finds himself facing serious allegations, although the trailer keeps the exact details hidden. The uncertainty surrounding these accusations creates tension and hints at a major conflict that will drive the season’s narrative. At the same time, his personal relationships begin to deteriorate. One of his closest friends confronts him directly, accusing him of failing not only as a colleague but also as a friend. The emotional confrontation suggests that the upcoming season will explore the fragile nature of friendships when ambition and authority come into play.

With its layered storytelling, Aspirants Season 3 promises to explore several compelling themes including the clash between Hindi and English language privilege, the transformation of aspirants into administrators and the moral dilemmas that arise when ideals meet real-world power. The narrative reflects how the journey from student life to leadership roles can reshape personalities, relationships and perspectives.

Created and produced by The Viral Fever (TVF) and directed by Deepesh Sumitra Jagdish, the new season aims to expand the universe of the series while maintaining the grounded storytelling that made the show so popular. Over the years, Aspirants has built a loyal audience by portraying the emotional and psychological challenges faced by UPSC candidates.

Season 3 will premiere exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on March 13 and will be available to viewers across India and in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. With higher stakes, new characters and unresolved tensions from the past, the upcoming season promises to deliver an engaging and emotionally charged continuation of the story that fans have been waiting for.

Fans of the Harry Potter franchise recently got a heartwarming moment after Daniel Radcliffe and Tom Felton reunited in New York City, reminding audiences that the bond between the former co-stars remains strong even years after the beloved film series ended. Felton showed up to support Radcliffe at his latest Broadway show, and the reunion quickly caught the attention of fans online who were thrilled to see the two actors together again. Radcliffe, best known for playing Harry Potter, has spent the last several years building an impressive stage career, frequently appearing in theatre productions in both London and New York. 

His latest Broadway performance has been receiving strong reactions, and having Felton attend the show added an extra layer of nostalgia for longtime fans of the wizarding world. Felton, who famously portrayed Draco Malfoy, shared the moment publicly, making it clear that he was there to support his former co-star. The reunion photos and clips circulating online show the two actors smiling and embracing backstage after the performance, which immediately sparked excitement among fans who grew up watching their on-screen rivalry.

For many viewers, the moment felt especially touching because Radcliffe and Felton’s characters were fierce rivals throughout the Harry Potter films. On screen, Harry and Draco were constantly clashing, representing two very different paths within the wizarding world. Off screen, however, the actors have long spoken about the genuine friendship that developed during the decade they spent working together on the franchise.

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Felton has often been one of Radcliffe’s most vocal supporters in the years following the films. The actor has attended events connected to the Harry Potter cast before and has repeatedly spoken about how proud he is of Radcliffe’s achievements beyond the franchise.

Fans online were quick to comment on how wholesome the moment felt. Many pointed out that seeing Draco Malfoy supporting Harry Potter in real life still feels surreal but incredibly sweet. Others joked that the rivalry clearly ended once the cameras stopped rolling.

The reunion also highlights how the Harry Potter cast continues to remain connected even as their careers move in very different directions. Radcliffe has leaned heavily into theatre and independent film projects, while Felton has pursued acting, writing, and appearances related to the franchise that made him famous.

Moments like this remind fans that the magic of Harry Potter did not end with the final film. The friendships formed during the making of the series continue to resonate with audiences who grew up watching these actors bring the wizarding world to life.

And judging by the reactions online, seeing Daniel Radcliffe and Tom Felton smiling together backstage was more than enough to make fans nostalgic all over again.

Concertgoers in Melbourne experienced an unexpected musical highlight when global pop star Ed Sheeran made a surprise appearance during Maisie Peters’ live show on Wednesday, March 4. The British singer-songwriter joined the rising pop artist midway through her performance, delighting the crowd with a special duet of his popular hit song Castle on the Hill. The unexpected collaboration instantly electrified the audience and quickly became one of the most memorable moments of the evening.

Maisie Peters later shared a video clip from the performance on Instagram, giving fans a glimpse of the special moment. The short clip captured the energy of the crowd as Sheeran walked on stage and began singing alongside Peters. Over the video, she wrote, “singing with my boss ed sheeran,” expressing both excitement and admiration for the artist she once toured with. The moment reflected the strong musical bond the two performers have built over the past few years.

In the caption accompanying the video, Peters thanked Sheeran for joining her during the Melbourne concert and described the duet as a dream come true. “Thank you @teddysphotos for singing the best song ever with me at my show in Melbourne tonight,” she wrote. The singer also recalled her earlier touring experience with Sheeran, sharing how she had watched him perform the song many times while opening for him. “Still remember watching you play this one all 60 something gigs we did together, and it was so magical getting to join you on it for one. The best to ever do it,” she added.

Maisie Peters first collaborated professionally with Ed Sheeran during his 2023 tour, where she served as one of the opening acts. The experience helped introduce her music to a wider global audience and strengthened their professional relationship. Their shared performance in Melbourne highlighted the supportive dynamic between the two artists and served as a reminder of how far Peters has come in her own musical journey.

Currently, Peters is touring Australia as part of her Before the Bloom Tour. The tour supports her growing reputation as one of the most promising voices in modern pop music. At the same time, the 25-year-old singer-songwriter is preparing to release her third studio album titled Florescence, which is expected to arrive in May. The upcoming album follows her previous project The Good Witch, which explored themes of personal growth, relationships and emotional independence.

While discussing The Good Witch earlier in her career, Peters described the album as a reflection of her early twenties. She famously quoted Taylor Swift while explaining the emotional tone of the record, saying, “To quote my lord and savior Taylor Swift, ‘We’re happy, free, confused and lonely at the same time.’” According to Peters, the album served as a time capsule of her life at age 22 and explored themes such as femininity, personal power and emotional control. She explained that the project gave her a creative space where she felt like the “creator of my universe.”

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Meanwhile, Ed Sheeran continues to stay busy with his global music commitments. The singer is currently traveling around the world with his ongoing Loop Tour, which includes performances across multiple continents. His next scheduled concert will take place in the Dominican Republic on May 9, with tour dates continuing through November.

In addition to touring, Sheeran is actively working on new music. The singer recently released his eighth studio album, Play, in September. During a visit to iHeartRadio Canada, he revealed that another album titled Rewind is already close to completion. Sheeran explained that the two albums were created simultaneously but developed different creative identities. According to him, one project draws inspiration from Indian culture while the other leans more toward nostalgic influences, making them feel like “twin albums” with distinct musical directions.

The surprise duet in Melbourne highlighted the lasting connection between Sheeran and Peters while giving fans an unforgettable live music moment. For those who witnessed it, the collaboration served as a reminder of how spontaneous performances can transform a concert into a truly special experience.

After generating significant excitement among science-fiction enthusiasts and movie lovers around the world, the highly anticipated film Project Hail Mary is finally preparing for its theatrical release. Based on the bestselling novel by acclaimed author Andy Weir, the movie is expected to deliver a gripping blend of science, suspense and emotional storytelling. Indian audiences will soon be able to experience the cinematic journey when the film releases in theatres across the country on March 26, 2026.

The film centres on Ryland Grace, a schoolteacher-turned-astronaut portrayed by Ryan Gosling. The story begins in a mysterious and intriguing way as Grace wakes up alone aboard a spacecraft far from Earth. Struggling with memory loss, he initially has no idea who he is or what mission he has been sent on. As fragments of his memory slowly return, he begins to uncover the truth about his assignment and the enormous responsibility placed on his shoulders. Grace soon realises that he may be humanity’s only hope in preventing a catastrophic event that threatens life on Earth.

Project Hail Mary is adapted from the popular 2021 novel written by Andy Weir, who previously gained global recognition for his bestselling book The Martian. That novel was later turned into a successful film starring Matt Damon. Known for combining scientific realism with compelling storytelling, Weir’s works often focus on ordinary individuals placed in extraordinary circumstances, relying on intellect and determination to survive against impossible odds. Project Hail Mary continues that tradition by presenting a lone astronaut who must rely on his knowledge, creativity and resilience while facing the challenges of deep space.

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The film is directed by the celebrated filmmaking duo Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, who are known for their inventive storytelling style and visually engaging films. Their past work includes popular projects across animation and live-action filmmaking, and their involvement in Project Hail Mary has further heightened anticipation among audiences. With their creative vision, the directors aim to transform the novel’s intricate scientific concepts into a visually spectacular and emotionally engaging cinematic experience.

Alongside Ryan Gosling, the film features a strong supporting cast that adds depth to the narrative. The ensemble includes Sandra Hüller, Lionel Boyce, Ken Leung and Milana Vayntrub. Each actor contributes to the story’s emotional and dramatic layers, helping to bring the complex world of the film to life. Their performances are expected to complement Gosling’s portrayal of Ryland Grace as he navigates isolation, uncertainty and the enormous pressure of a mission that could determine the fate of humanity.

Beyond its compelling storyline, Project Hail Mary also aims to deliver a large-scale cinematic spectacle. The film combines advanced visual effects, detailed spacecraft environments and expansive depictions of space to immerse viewers in its interstellar setting. The filmmakers have designed the project as a theatrical experience meant to be enjoyed on the big screen, particularly in premium viewing formats.

The movie is produced by Amazon MGM Studios and will be distributed internationally by Sony Pictures International Releasing. To reach a wider audience in India, the film will release in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. It will also be available in IMAX and other premium large formats, allowing viewers to fully experience the film’s scale and visual grandeur.

With its mix of scientific intrigue, emotional storytelling and thrilling adventure, Project Hail Mary is poised to become one of the most talked-about sci-fi films of the year. As the release date approaches, audiences can look forward to an immersive cinematic journey that explores humanity’s determination to survive and the extraordinary lengths one person might go to save the world.

This snowy winter many of Scotland’s most celebrated Islay distilleries dropped a slew of brand new releases to warm our bellies for spring. Some are limited time offerings or special editions, but others are entirely new permanent labels to their core portfolios—sapling branches sprouting from celebrated whisky trunks. The latter are momentous, because while historic distilleries are much more likely to play with second finishes and longer maturations to gauge public reaction, establishing new core bottles shows they mean business. 

Admittedly we have a special affinity for Islay, one of Scotland’s most respected single malt regions and easily its most celebrated island for whisky making. Our love for the Queen of the Hebrides launched from a dock behind Ardbeg almost a decade ago and has only grown over multiple visits. On that blessed grey afternoon we found ourselves under a soft rain, parkas pulled tight as the Ardbeg team brought out a parade of bottles to sample, including their An Oa expression. Soon a small fishing boat pulled up; a bearded fisherman stumbled out, carrying nets bulging with scallops, urchins and other coldwater delicacies he’d plucked from the ocean floor. As the fisherman from central casting shucked oysters and cut out urchin gonads for us to feast upon, the drizzle fell into our Glencairn glasses and true astonishment hit. 

Before then, the smoky, and at times medicinal, notes of Islay whisky did little to stir our loins. But there on that pier, those flavors bonded with the regional seafood like friendship and pizza, tickled by the cool rain pattering on our hoods and naturally proofing our drams in hand. Not to be dramatic, but the moment was an epiphany, and henceforth, these unique Islay flavors opened a new door in our perception of spirits.

Bowmore Sherry Oak Cask Collection: 12, 15, 18 + 21 Year Old Single Malts

“The new collection represents a new chapter for Bowmore on our journey to become the most collectible single malt in the world,” Simon Brooking, Bowmore’s US National Ambassador, tells Maxim, adding how the new collection represents the Islay distillery’s increased  commitment to premiumization and desirability. “We were excited to showcase how Bowmore remains a leader in flavor by taking one of the signature elements of Scotch whisky aging and creating a full collection of sherry-aged whiskies of varied age statements. We’re very proud of the layers of flavor expression on display with this new collection.” 

One of the key aspects to Bowmore’s unique output is their commitment to maintaining their own floor malt barn, in which malters turn the barley over manually every four hours for a truly hand-crafted experience—something Bowmore has done since its founding in 1779. It’s just one of the reasons the distillery’s juice is so coveted. Years ago when working on a piece on collector-grade spirits we interviewed Sukhinder Singh, co-founder of the esteemed Whisky Exchange, about his favorite. He shared that, in his opinion, the single malts from Bowmore in the 1960s “were the finest whiskys ever made.” Lofty praise. 

Bowmore is known for using a variety of casks for aging, including Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez Sherry, Heaven Hill ex-bourbon barrels, mizunara oak and even the occasional wine barrel. But as the name implies, the Sherry Oak Cask Collection highlights Bowmore’s specific use of Spanish/European sherry-seasoned oak. And while we enjoyed the trio, the 18 Year Old hit different. 

“What I like most about the 18 Year Old Bowmore Sherry bottling is that it opens the door to a whole other world of flavors,” Brooking reveals. “On the nose, the sweetness of the Pedro Ximenez finish invites the participant to explore the more decadent corners of Bowmore. Freshly ground cocoa beans, treacle toffee, date oil and fresh pineapple with a subtle sea salt earthiness. And then you take a sip and it’s a foil-wrapped holiday chocolate orange followed by moist sultanas, aniseed spice. It has a wonderfully fruity finish with incredible depth and complexity.”

The Ambassador explains how all the expressions start life as a 50/50 marriage of their single malt matured in American oak ex-bourbon barrels and Spanish Oloroso casks that are then finished for approximately 12 to 18 months with a selection of Butts and hogsheads-sized casks as follows: The 12 Year Old finished in refilled Spanish Oloroso, the 15 Year Old finished in first-fill Spanish Oloroso, the 18 Year Old finished in refilled Spanish Pedro Ximenez; and the halo 21 Year Old finished in first-fill European oak Pedro Ximénez.

“The range has more elegance and finesse than you would expect from a sherry cask-finished series,” Brooking concludes. “This is deliberate as we want to showcase our distillery character and the layers of flavor within Bowmore.” Bottled at 43 percent ABV (86 proof), the Bowmore 18-Year-Old Sherry Oak Cask is available now. $325 SRP

Ardbeg Ten Cask Strength Single Malt

More than 20 years after devoted #whiskyheads first began clamoring for its release, Ardbeg finally delivered a full-throttle, cask-strength edition of its iconic Ten. Considered by many the benchmark for smoky Islay single malt, Ardbeg Ten now arrives in its most intense form yet, bottled at a commanding 61.7 percent ABV. The release answers a request that has remained since a rare, highly coveted cask-strength Ten first appeared in Japan way back in 2003. For the distillery’s fiercely loyal Ardbeg Committee—counting more than 200,000 devoted members worldwide—it has remained a white whale. Now, under the guidance of whisky creation team Dr. Bill Lumsden, Master Blender Gillian MacDonald, and Distillery Manager Bryony McNiven, that wish has manifested into reality.

Matured in hand-selected American oak bourbon casks, including experimental barrels filled with new-make spirit at an unusually high strength, the single malt magnifies Ardbeg’s famed “peaty paradox,” where smoke collides with sweetness in dramatic harmony. The aroma is dense and elemental: tar, creosote, coffee grounds, and sea spray crash on your glass like coastal spray on the aforementioned Ardbeg dock, softened by flickers of toffee, vanilla and lime zest. A splash of water reveals classic herbal notes of fennel and bonfire embers. On the palate, the texture is mouth-filling and spicy, opening with a surprising burst of smoked cinnamon and paprika sweetness before unleashing soot, peat moss, and woodsmoke. Despite its power (this being the highest-strength ABV of any Committee Release to date), a malty, biscuity backbone keeps the dram in balance. The finish lingers, cooling and mentholic, with hints of eucalyptus and antiseptic lozenge. $90 SRP

Lagavulin 11 Year Old Sweet Peat Single Malt

After nearly a decade without a permanent addition to its core range, Lagavulin introduces 11 Year Old Sweet Peat—a whisky designed to reveal a softer, more honeyed side of Lagavulin’s famed Islay smoke while remaining true to the house style. Aged for 11 years exclusively in first-fill American oak ex-bourbon casks, Sweet Peat draws its richness naturally from oak and malt, allowing its sweetness to step forward without muting the distillery’s maritime intensity. The maturation amplifies vanilla, toffee, and honeyed notes, creating a rounder interpretation of peat that feels both classic and crisply new. Another refreshing twist on a beloved house style. 

Production adheres to Lagavulin’s time-honored methods: careful fermentation and slow distillation through its four squat, pear-shaped copper pot stills. The result is a spirit that balances weight and elegance, even punched up at 43 percent ABV (86 proof). According to Diageo Master Blender Stuart Morrison, who led the development of the expression, Sweet Peat “opens with gentle sweetness and salinity before the bonfire smoke and oak spice come into focus.” In the glass, the whisky builds from honeyed malt and toffee apple into a mid-palate layered with bonfire smoke and warming spice. It finishes with dark chocolate, soft vanilla and a steady drift of peat smoke. Present, but not overpowering. Crafted to appeal both to longtime devotees of Islay’s smoky intensity and to newcomers curious about peated Scotch, Lagavulin 11 Year Old Sweet Peat proves that even one of Islay’s most revered names can cheekily reveal a sweeter side. $70 SRP

Bruichladdich Port Charlotte 18 Year Old 2026 Edition Single Malt

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Established in 1881 by the Harvey brothers, shuttered in 1995, and then resurrected six years later, Bruichladdich’s acclaim grows from paradoxical ports. On one side there’s the fact that Bruichladdich gained fame for its core whisky being one of the rare Islay single malts that didn’t use peat, harkening more to its mainland cousins in Speyside and the Highlands. On the other is arguably Bruichladdich’s most famous expression, Octomore, which boasts the highest PPM (a way to measure phenols, or a whisky’s smokiness) known to mankind. Somewhere between these two poles sits its Port Charlotte label. 

For 2026 the evolution of Bruichladdich’s moderately peated label reaches new depths with Port Charlotte 18 Year Old 2026 Edition—currently the oldest core expression in the lineup. Limited to just 8,000 units and bottled at a natural cask strength of 52.3-percent ABV, the 2026 Edition follows earlier 18 Year Old releases in 2024 and 2025. Each is subtly different in cask composition yet united by Port Charlotte’s signature 40 PPM peat intensity (compare that to Octomore, which can eclipse 300 PPMs). Distilled from 100 percent Scottish barley, the whisky was conceived, matured, and bottled entirely on Islay—an exercise in terroir inspired by the man who resurrected Bruichladdich in 2001, Mark Reynier. Reynier’s winemaking past can be seen in other terroir-obsessed projects of his, like Grenada’s Renegade Rum and Ireland’s Waterford Whisky. 

Port Charlotte 18 Year Old’s complexity is driven by a meticulous cask program. The spirit began life in first-fill bourbon (40 percent), second-fill sherry (15 percent) and virgin oak (15 percent) casks. A portion of the sherry-matured whisky was then re-casked into first-fill Rhône Valley red wine barrels for five years before a final two-year finish in second-fill bourbon (20 percent), while the remaining component rested in refill sherry and wine casks (10 percent). The red wine influence lends unorthodox layers of dark fruit and warming spice that intertwine with the distillery’s maritime peat.

The nose is lead by apricot, honeycomb and honeysuckle before gentle wood smoke and spice emerge. The palate is rounded, delivering caramelized brown sugar, cinder toffee, and bonfire smoke, balanced by roasted almond, charred oak, and supple leather. A subtle salinity, born from nearly two decades maturing beside the Atlantic, remains through a long finish of citrus, vanilla custard, and smoldering peat. $199 SRP

Laphroaig Elements 3.0 Single Malt

This one came out in late autumn, but given our love for Laphroaig, we’ll let it slide it here. Established in 1815 and still one of the few distilleries to practice traditional floor malting, Laphroaig continues to hand-turn its barley and smoke it slowly over peat fires, preserving the island’s elemental character of salt, smoke, and surprising sweetness. Visiting the distillery itself is an aromatic celebration; the crisp Scottish air filled with the scent of peaty smoke, seaweed drying on the rocky shores, and an unmistakable salt licking the air. With this sense of base nature, it’s understandable Laphroaig named their experimental series “Elements.”

Now with Elements 3.0, the distillery leans into experimentation without losing its peated soul. The third release in the boundary-pushing Elements Series, Elements 3.0 explores the flavor impact of an unexpected kiln fire that burned longer and at significantly higher temperatures than usual. That intensified smoking period created a spirit markedly deeper, darker, and richer than the norm, ultimately revealing layers of chocolate and burnt caramel beneath Laphroaig’s signature peat.

Bottled at a robust 55.3 percent ABV, Elements 3.0 is as powerful as its origin story suggests. The nose opens with charcoal and peat, wrapped in maritime brine, before sweeter notes of vanilla, lemon zest, and butterscotch emerge. On the palate, a wave of phenolic smoke gives way to roasted cocoa, bitter dark chocolate, and a tangy undercurrent of blackberry, plum, and crème brûlée richness. The finish is unmistakably Laphroaig: iodine, leather and sooty chimney smoke. Following the success of Elements 1.0 and the award-winning 2.0, this latest release underscores Laphroaig’s commitment to understanding how even subtle production shifts can reshape flavor. $165 SRP

Follow Deputy Editor Nicolas Stecher on Instagram at @nickstecher and @boozeoftheday.

Werner Herzog, the acclaimed documentarian behind Grizzly Man and Cave of Forgotten Dreams, is back with a new naturalist feature about an epic quest to find Angola’s elusive “ghost elephants,” believed to be the descendants of the largest land mammal ever recorded.

Produced by National Geographic Documentary Films, Ghost Elephants  features the writer/director’s signature German-accented narration as he follows conservation biologist Steve Boyes and a team of Angolan master trackers in a trek to spot the mythical beasts that were presumed extinct after decades of civil war but have now reappeared in the highland wilderness.

The documentary—which premiered at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, where Herzog was awarded the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement—supplements the filmmaker’s philosophical aura with gorgeous cinematography of mists rolling across rugged African landscapes and fleeting images of the elephants themselves. 

“The largest elephant ever,” Herzog muses in the film. “Does it matter if they are a dream or a reality?” He later asks Boyes, “Could it be that they are your imagination, that you are after ghosts that don’t exist?” Boyes responds, “They will always exist. They always could be there. And I can go back for the rest of my life looking for them.”

While the movie focuses on the team’s obsessive search to find the herd, there are enthralling scenes of elephants trundling underwater in slow-motion as well as grim footage of 1960s-era big game hunters gunning them down from the safety of a glass-domed chopper.

Herzog’s cultural imprint is vast enough to encompass a well-received 2023 memoir, Every Man For Himself and God Against All, his name emblazoned across a t-shirt with Danzig’s horned skull logo, and acting roles in The Mandalorian and Jack Reacher. Fans of the veteran independent filmmaker will find much to appreciate here, even if it falls short of Grizzly Man’s dizzyingly high standards. 

Complementing the film is Boyes’ new coffee table book, Okavango and the Source of Life (Disney Books), which features more than 100 photos, detailed maps, and personal reflections from years of expeditions into the Angolan wilderness. Ghost Elephants airs on National Geographic on March 7, and streams on Disney+ and Hulu beginning March 8. Watch the trailer below.

In a digital age where every social media interaction is scrutinized, Yami Gautam recently found herself at the center of an online controversy. She has now broken her silence about claims that she liked a social media post that appeared to troll Kriti Sanon after the latter’s Best Actress win at a recent awards show.

The issue began when social media users noticed that Yami’s account had engaged with a reel questioning Kriti’s win for her performance in Tere Ishk Mein. The video in question featured Kriti posing with her trophy, edited with a previous interview clip of Yami discussing award validation. The reel ended with the provocative question, “Is it fair?”, suggesting Yami was more deserving for her role in Haq.

It has come to my notice that I apparently ‘liked’ a reel that is condescending toward another actor. We get tagged in multiple things every day, and this appeared during an award-function reference like any other tag. It isn’t true and was definitely not done consciously, if…
— Yami Gautam Dhar (@yamigautam) March 5, 2026

Addressing the situation on X on Thursday, Yami clarified that any such interaction was purely accidental. She explained the nature of being a public figure on social media, saying, “It has come to my notice that I apparently ‘liked’ a reel that is condescending toward another actor. We get tagged in multiple things every day, and this appeared during an award function reference like any other tag. It isn’t true and was definitely not done consciously; if anything, it may have been clicked accidentally.”

Yami was firm in her stance against using such controversies for professional gain. She explained her long-standing reputation in the industry, saying, “Never in my life have I resorted to cheap PR tactics. I have always focused on my work and moved on. In the world of clickbait, it’s tempting for even dignified social media portals to harp on this and turn it into coffee-table gossip. But I would hope they would consider that I have earned a better reputation than that.”

Yami further distanced herself from the typical celebrity publicity machine, reiterating her independent approach to her career. She concluded, “I have no PR team, have respectfully cleared my stance on entertainment award shows long ago, and remain focused on my work.

The controversy stems from a fan-made comparison using Yami’s earlier words from a THR India interview: “You try everything, and it still doesn’t work. So, I’ve stopped seeking any kind of validation. If I get that award, then I am a good actress, and otherwise, I’m not. Nothing like that.”
Also Read: Yami Gautam, Aditi Rao Hydari and Kriti Sanon rock their airport looks

Singer Camila Cabello may have subtly confirmed her relationship with billionaire heir Henry Junior Chalhoub after months of speculation surrounding the pair. The Señorita singer and the businessman have been linked since 2024, but until now neither of them had publicly spoken about their relationship. However, a recent birthday post shared by the singer on social media has caught the attention of fans, many of whom believe the pictures hint that the relationship may finally be official.

Camila recently celebrated her 29th birthday and gave followers a glimpse of the special occasion through a series of photos posted on Instagram. The images showed the singer celebrating with close friends, surrounded by decorations and a large birthday cake. While the post appeared to be a simple celebration update at first glance, one particular photo quickly stood out to fans and sparked widespread discussion online. In the image, Henry Junior Chalhoub can be seen looking at Camila with an affectionate expression while she celebrates her birthday. The candid moment immediately caught the attention of fans, many interpreting it as a subtle way of introducing him publicly in her personal life.

Although Camila did not explicitly confirm the relationship in the caption, the presence of Henry in such an intimate moment made the post feel significant to many followers. It marked one of the first times the singer had shared a personal photo including him, which further fueled speculation that the two are now comfortable acknowledging their relationship publicly. Fans quickly took to social media platforms to discuss the image, with many describing the moment as heartfelt and suggesting that the couple looked genuinely happy together.

Alongside the photos, Camila shared a reflective caption about entering a new year of her life. She wrote, “Bday swag. I wrote my yearly list in my email letter. 29 things I learned by 29. Thank you for the wishes and kisses.” The caption suggested that the singer had taken time to reflect on personal growth and experiences as she marked another milestone birthday. While the message focused mainly on gratitude and self-reflection, the images themselves offered a rare glimpse into her private life.

Romance rumours between Camila Cabello and Henry Junior Chalhoub first began circulating in 2024. The pair were reportedly spotted together at an afterparty following the Elie Saab fashion show held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Their appearance together at the event sparked curiosity among fans and media outlets, though neither Camila nor Henry addressed the speculation at the time.

Interest in their relationship grew even stronger in January 2025 when the two were seen enjoying a beach holiday in the Caribbean. Photographs from the trip showed them spending time together and sharing relaxed moments by the sea. Since then, they have reportedly been spotted together on multiple occasions, further fueling rumours about their growing bond.

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Despite the public curiosity surrounding her love life, Camila has previously shared that she prefers a relaxed and natural approach when it comes to dating. In a 2023 interview with People, the singer explained that she does not like to put pressure on herself when it comes to meeting new people. Instead, she believes that the best connections often happen naturally while living life, exploring new experiences and staying open to friendships and opportunities.

Camila explained that focusing too much on dating can sometimes create unnecessary expectations. For her, meeting someone special should feel as effortless as making a new friend or discovering a new interest. According to the singer, staying curious about life and remaining socially active can help meaningful relationships develop without forcing them.

Henry Junior Chalhoub, who has been linked to the singer, comes from one of the most influential business families in the Middle East. He is the heir to the Chalhoub Group, a luxury retail and distribution company known for working with several globally recognised fashion houses. The company has partnerships with major brands such as Versace and Jimmy Choo, making it a prominent name in the luxury fashion and retail industry across the region.

While neither Camila Cabello nor Henry Junior Chalhoub has officially confirmed their relationship, the singer’s recent birthday post has certainly reignited curiosity among fans. Whether intentional or simply a candid moment shared with friends, the image has given followers a rare glimpse into the singer’s personal life and possibly her newest chapter in love.