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The French business climate darkened again in November, dropping one point compared with October to stand at 96, below its long-term average. From a sectoral point of view, business sentiment rebounded in industry, but the rebound did not wipe out the huge fall seen in October, and confidence remains weak. By contrast, business sentiment fell in all other sectors. In services, the indicator fell by two points, due to a deterioration in the outlook for activity and demand. Business sentiment is also softening in wholesale and retail trade, where order intentions and staffing levels are down. Finally, in the construction sector, the business climate is also deteriorating, with business leaders revising their opinions of past activity downwards. This data provides further evidence of the worsening economic outlook in France and suggests that GDP growth will be very sluggish in the fourth quarter of 2024. We are expecting GDP to contract by 0.1%, following the 0.4% rise seen in the third quarter, on the back of the Olympic Games. In addition, the deterioration in the outlook components of the business climate in most sectors suggests that economic growth is likely to remain very weak over the coming quarters too. While the government and most international institutions are still counting on a strong recovery in consumption and investment in France in the coming months, business surveys indicate that such a recovery is unlikely. In fact, given the political and geopolitical uncertainties, upcoming tax measures, weak demand, and limited potential for further long-term rate cuts, it appears that business investment is likely to weaken further in 2025. Household consumption could also disappoint. While the sharp fall in inflation in recent months has supported household purchasing power, this support is unlikely to continue. A slight rebound in inflation is even likely over the next few months. In addition, household purchasing power is likely to be affected by the expected weakening of the labour market, with a contraction in employment likely in 2025. Amid political and geopolitical uncertainties and growing concerns about unemployment, there is a risk that the household savings rate may not decrease; in fact, it could increase. Added to this is a more restrictive fiscal policy, with cuts in public spending and tax rises to come, which will weigh on domestic demand. Finally, external demand could also decline due to weaker economic momentum among trading partners and a possible increase in customs duties. In short, today’s business climate data is yet another signal of the deterioration in France’s economic outlook. As in neighbouring countries, very weak growth is expected over the next few quarters. We are expecting GDP to grow by 0.6% in 2025, compared with 1.1% in 2024. Source: INGIs there a single TV show that, for the entirety of its run, managed to keep its story going without any retcons? For one reason or another, it is common to see a popular series amend or completely disregard a pre-established story or character detail, often leading fans to wonder if they are losing their minds. Don't worry: you're not crazy but merely a victim of some confusing or even just annoying TV retcons like the following. Cory And Topanga's Origins (Boy Meets World) The romance between Cory Matthews (Ben Savage) and Topanga Lawrence (Danielle Fishel) could have been the perfect sitcom love story if the classic TGIF comedy could keep the details of their relationship straight. When Fishel first joined the Boy Meets World cast , she was initially introduced as the weird student in Cory's elementary school class but, when she is later reinvented as his love interest, the show tries to play them off as sweethearts since childhood. Dan Is Alive (Roseanne) Not only is Season 9 of Roseanne , in which the Conners ' lives change when they win the lottery, revealed to be a fantasy in the series finale but we also learn that Dan ( John Goodman ) was dead the entire time, having suffered a heart attack. This controversial plot twist was ignored in 2018 when the sitcom was revived for a tenth season before it was rebranded as The Conners . The Fate Of Frasier's Father (Cheers/Frasier) On one episode of Cheers , Frasier Crane ( Kelsey Grammer ) tells his friends at the bar that his late father was a research scientist. However, in Frasier's self-titled and equally beloved TV show spin-off , we see Martin Crane (John Mahoney) is alive and well and a retired cop. In an episode where Ted Danson appears as Sam Malone, the show tries to explain that Frasier's dad was "dead to him" at the time after a bitter argument. Sara Was Not Dead After All (Prison Break) In the third season of Prison Break , Michael (Wentworth Miller) learns that Sara (Sarah Wayne Callies) was kidnapped and beheaded, only to see her come back in Season 4, which reveals it was never actually her head. In reality, the reason for the character's demise was due to a dispute involving Callies' contract but, when she was able to work out a deal to return to the series, her earlier death was rewritten as a head fake. Jimmy Olsen Was Not Who We Thought He Was (Smallville) In its sixth season, the acclaimed DC TV show Smallville introduced the iconic character of photographer Jimmy Olsen (Aaron Ashmore), only to kill him off three years later. It is at his funeral that we learn that his real name is Henry James Olsen and that the real Jimmy Olsen was his never-before-seen little brother the whole time. Kramer Was Originally Named Kessler (Seinfeld) In the pilot episode of Seinfeld , Jerry ( Jerry Seinfeld ) calls his next-door neighbor by the name Kessler but, from the next episode on, Michael Richards' character is referred to as Kramer, after Larry David 's real-life friend on whom the role is based. The series tries to explain this in Season 9's "The Betrayal" with a flashback to the characters' first meeting when Kramer tells Jerry that the name on his buzzer is incorrect. CINEMABLEND NEWSLETTER Your Daily Blend of Entertainment News Bobby's Death Was All A Dream (Dallas) When Patrick Duffy decided to quit the CBS primetime soap opera, Dallas , his character, Bobby Ewing, was written off the show in Season 8 when he was run over by his sister-in-law, Katherine Wentworth (Morgan Brittany), and was buried after succumbing to his injuries in the Season 9 premiere. However, after the writers urged the actor to come back to the cast, the Season 10 opener revealed everything that happened in the previous season was imagined by his wife, Pamela Barnes Ewing (Victoria Principal), in her sleep. Gossip Girl's True Identity Does Not Make Sense (Gossip Girl) As revealed in the series finale of Gossip Girl , Dan Humphrey ( Penn Badgley ) was the mysterious blogger the entire time but, if that's true, why does he act surprised by several posts about him, his friends, and his relatives in earlier episodes? Furthermore, Gossip Girl publicizes the fact that Dan and his girlfriend, Serena van der Woodsen ( Blake Lively ), share a half-sibling, which he adamantly wants kept secret. So, why on Earth would he make that public, even anonymously? What Ever Happened To Judy Winslow (Family Matters) YouTuber Vee Infuso debunked an urban legend believing that the youngest Winslow child, Judy, once walked up the stairs in a Season 4 episode never to be seen again. While Jaimee Foxworth's actual final appearance in the Family Matter cast came later that season in "Mama's Wedding," her subsequent absence (due to the writers having nothing interesting to come up with for her ) was never explained nor acknowledged for the remainder of the series. The First Time Chandler Said "I Love You" To Monica (Friends) In one of the most ridiculous Friends episodes , "The One Where Everyone Finds Out," Chandler (Matthew Perry) is coerced by Phoebe's (Lisa Kudrow) feigned seduction into admitting that he is in love with Monica ( Courteney Cox ) to everyone's surprise, including her own. However, the otherwise touching moment seems to forget about an earlier Friends Thanksgiving episode , "The One With All The Thanksgivings," in which Chandler lets his feelings for Monica slip when she surprises him with a turkey on her head. A Time Lord's Maximum Number Of Regenerations Changes (Doctor Who) Early on in the long-running, classic sci-fi TV show 's history, it is established that the title character of Doctor Who , like all Time Lords, can only regenerate a total of 13 times. However, that rule has since been negated as the 13th Doctor actor, Jodie Whitaker, was later replaced by Ncuti Gatwa. The History Of Superheroes Dates Back Longer Than We Thought (Arrowverse) After adopting his vigilante alter ego at the beginning of the hit series, Arrow , Oliver Queen (Stephen Amell) is said to have become the first superhero. Yet, later down the road as the Arrowverse franchise would continue to evolve with its multiple spin-offs, it was discovered that superhero teams have existed as early as World War II. Kimmy Gibbler's Sibling Count (Full House/Fuller House) When Kimmy Gibbler is first mentioned in the 1987 pilot for Full House , D.J. Tanner (Candace Cameron Bure) says she has three sisters but the character (played by Andrea Barber) says in Season 3 that her parents stopped having kids after her. This could imply she is merely the youngest in her family but she was also known to mention having an unseen older brother named Garth. Furthermore, in Netflix's revival, Fuller House , we are introduced to her younger brother, Jimmy (Adam Hagenbuch). Dean Loses His Urban Philosophy (Gilmore Girls) When Jared Padalecki first joined the Gilmore Girls cast as Dean, the character was introduced as a Chicago native who had moved to Stars Hollow fairly recently and loves obscure books and movies. However, when New York transplant and obscure book and movie lover Jess (Milo Ventimiglia) is brought into the mix, Dean is suddenly reinvented as a more rural individual who has lost his cultural interests and thinks of Stars Hollow as his true home after living "most of his life" there. The Disappearance Of Donna's Sister (That '70s Show) We are willing to bet that, even if you considered yourself a huge That '70s Show fan, you had absolutely no recollection that Donna (Laura Prepon) had a sister. Tina Pinciotti (Amanda Fuller) makes one appearance in Season 1 and is subsequently mentioned only once more in a throwaway joke from Season 2's "Vanstock" but, from that point on, Donna is referred to as an only child. Daenerys Goes Bad (Game Of Thrones) Here is an example of something that is not so much a retcon but a deeply confusing and quite maddening TV character evolution that suddenly comes out of nowhere. One of the most heavily criticized aspects of the eighth and final season of Game of Thrones sees the normally level-headed and fair Daenerys (Emilia Clarke) become a coldhearted tyrant who commits unimaginably brutal crimes without a second's hesitation. Are Jason And Cheryl Really Twins? (Riverdale) There are a number of notable inconsistencies regarding the characters in the Riverdale cast , but one of the more glaring involves Cheryl Blossom (Madelaine Petsch) and her brother, Jason (Trevor Stines). While initially established as fraternal twins, later episodes of the Archie Comics-inspired dramedy imply that they are in two different grade levels at school. Who Made Spike A Vampire? (Buffy The Vampire Slayer) A lot of Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans like to count the sudden appearance of Buffy's never-before-seen younger sister Dawn (Michelle Trachtenberg) as a retcon. However, the sentient form of power's inclusion is explained by fake memories implanted into the characters' minds after she is sent to Buffy (Sarah Michelle Gellar) to protect, so we are not counting that. Instead, we will mention how Spike (James Marsters) refers to Angel (David Boreanaz) as the vampire who turned him until it is later revealed that Drusilla is his true sire. Why Sheldon Knocks Multiple Times (The Big Bang Theory) One of the most iconic running gags on The Big Bang Theory is Sheldon Cooper's (Jim Parsons) compulsion to knock on people's doors three times, which was only first introduced in Season 2. However, in Season 10, he explains that he formed the habit after accidentally walking in on his father having an affair and wants to give people enough time to "get their pants on" with his courteous and incessant signal. When Claire Gets Her Powers (Heroes) In the first season of Heroes , it is established that Claire Bennet (Hayden Panettiere) developed her rapid healing ability later in life when she hit puberty. However, in a later episode when she meets her birth mother, it is revealed that she was indestructible even when she was an infant. The Rules Of Being A Vessel Are Inconsistent (Supernatural) At one point in the 15-season run of Supernatural , it is established that being a vessel for a spiritual entity will result in the host's death once the entity no longer requires their physical form. However, Sam (Jared Padalecki), Dean (Jensen Ackles), and even the Lucifer-possessed President Jefferson Rooney (David Chisum) end up just fine after their time as a vessel ends. Tina Admits She Was Faking Her Stutter (Glee) When Tina (Jenna Ushkowitz) is first introduced in the first season of Glee , she speaks with a stutter that suddenly disappears after she joins the glee club. She eventually reveals she faked it hoping that it would make Artie Abrams (Kevin McHale) like her more. Randy Suddenly Gains An Uncle (Monk) Even a detective show as clever as Monk has been known to make a few logical errors from time to time. For instance, Lt. Randy Disher (Jason Gray-Stanford) says at one point that he has two aunts but no uncles but, in the Season 5 episode "Mr. Monk Visits a Farm," he inherits land from a recently deceased family member... his uncle, Harvey (Jack Kehler). President Barlett's Death Tax Repeal Veto Is A Surprise (The West Wing) In Season 2 of creator Aaron Sorkin's The West Wing , it is mentioned by political commentator Mark Gottfried (Ted McGinley) that President Josiah Bartlett (Martin Sheen) vetoed a Republican-backed education package. However, in the following season when he vetoes a repeal of the "death tax," it causes an uproar as people claim he had never used the veto before. Barney Suddenly Knows How To Drive (How I Met Your Mother) In Season 2 of How I Met Your Mother , we discover that Barney Stinson (Neil Patrick Harris) not only does not know how to drive a car but is absolutely terrified to get behind the wheel. Yet, two seasons later, in one of the best HIMYM episodes , "As Fast as She Can," he makes multiple attempts to get a speeding ticket to prove he can talk his way out of one and is also seen driving plenty of times afterward. Perhaps he could have worked up the courage to finally learn how to drive by then but there is absolutely no mention of it, making his sudden acquirement of this skill a bit sudden. Fans Still Missed Moriarty (Sherlock) At the end of Sherlock 's third season, a message from the detective's archnemesis, Moriarty (Andrew Scott) suggested the criminal mastermind would play a pivotal role in the following season. Unfortunately, fans would discover that he had no involvement in Season 4, which is less of a retcon and more of an infuriating cop-out. Walker Blood Is Not A Source Of Infection (The Walking Dead) Early seasons of The Walking Dead established that getting blood from one of the undead in your eyes or mouth or in a wound would prove fatal, yet later seasons ignore this rule almost completely. This retcon goes further than just the TV series as it is an acknowledged and important detail in the Robert Kirkman-penned comic book series that inspired the AMC hit. Al Dreamt Peg's Pregnancy (Married.... With Children) By the end of Married... with Children 's first season, half of which saw Peg (Katey Sagal) pregnant, it is revealed to have been all Al's (Ed O'Neill) dream but there is actually a dark truth to this retcon. As the actor explains in her memoir, Grace Notes , Sagal's real-life pregnancy at this time was written into the show but when she suffered a miscarriage, it was decided that the show would not bring another child into the cast. SpongeBob Knew Sandy As A Child (SpongeBob SquarePants/Kamp Koral: SpongeBob's Under Years) In the second-ever episode of SpongeBob Squarepants , "Tea at the Treedome," we see the title character (voiced by Tom Kenny) meet Sandy Cheeks (Carolyn Lawrence) for the very first time. However, the prequel spin-off, Kamp Koral: SpongeBob's Under Years , suggests that the sea sponge and the squirrel knew each other when they stayed at the eponymous camp as children. Peggy's Mom Keeps Changing (King Of The Hill) The first time King of the Hill introduces Peggy's mother, she is depicted as a suburban homemaker but is later reinvented almost completely as the wife of a bitter old rancher. That is not even counting the fact that, in an episode when Bobby's secret admirer turns out to be his grandmother playing a trick, the elderly woman in question is neither Hank's nor Peggy's mother. Andy's Father's Name Changes (The Office) In NBC's The Office , after proposing to Angela (Angela Kinsey), Andy (Ed Helms) refers to his mother and father as Andrew and Ellen Bernard, implying that he is Andy Bernard Jr. However, when we meet his parents in "The Garden Party," the father is identified as Walter Bernard Sr. (Stephen Collins) and Andy explains that he used to be named Walter Jr. before his younger brother (played by Josh Groban) was deemed more worthy of the moniker. The Rules For Transferring Powers (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers) In Season 2 of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers , when Jason (Austin St. John), Trini (Thuy Trang), and Zack (Walter Emanuel Jones) are forced to leave, the team needs to acquire a special sword to transfer their powers to Rocky (Steve Cardenas), Aisha (Karan Ashley), and Adam (Johnny Yong Bosch). However, in the following season, when Kimberly (Amy Jo Johnson) needed to give her powers to Kat (Catherine Sutherland), she just handed over her power coin.
"I am tired. Mentally and physically exhausted," Guardiola admitted in a candid moment during the interview. "I have given my all to football, to my players, and to the clubs I have had the privilege to manage. But now, I feel the need to escape, to take a step back and focus on other aspects of my life."In addition to meeting market expectations, experts have also highlighted the importance of strengthening unconventional countercyclical adjustments. During times of crisis, central banks and governments may need to implement non-traditional policy tools to support the economy. These can include quantitative easing, targeted lending programs, and fiscal stimulus packages.The design of the PS5 Pro features a bold and futuristic aesthetic, with sharp lines and a sleek black finish. The console's unique shape and ventilation system have drawn comparisons to the common bathroom exhaust fan found in many homes. While some may see this as a mere coincidence, others speculate that there may be a deeper inspiration behind Sony's design choices.
When Xiang Zuo sat in Xiaohua's chair for his haircut, many were intrigued to see the outcome of this collaboration. As Xiaohua carefully combed through Xiang Zuo's hair with precision scissors in hand, onlookers couldn't help but wonder how the actor's hair would turn out after such meticulous care.Only about 2 in 10 Americans approve of Biden's pardon of his son Hunter, poll finds
The cold air mass, which is currently making its way southward from Siberia, is predicted to reach South China in the coming days. This will mark a stark departure from the relatively milder weather that the region has been experiencing in recent weeks. While residents in the northern provinces are accustomed to the onset of colder temperatures during this time of the year, the arrival of the cold air mass in South China is likely to come as a surprise to many.
The video of Xiaohua giving Xiang Zuo a haircut quickly went viral on social media, with fans praising the hairstylist's skills and precision. Many were impressed by the fact that not a single hair was lost during the entire cutting process, a testament to Xiaohua's attention to detail and commitment to perfection.
NoneWarning: This story contains spoilers for Squid Game season two. The game is still afoot as Squid Game heads into its third and final season. Unlike the dystopian South Korean drama's first season, which saw Seong Gi-hun ( Lee Jung-jae ) coming out as the winner of 45.6 billion won (approximately $31.5 million) after successfully navigating a series of deadly challenges, the Netflix show's second season —released on Dec. 26—ended on a cliffhanger with his fate completely unknown. Though Gi-hun successfully infiltrated the game as a returning player, his attempt to overthrow its makers was ultimately thwarted—with his friend Park Jung-bae ( Lee Seo-hwan ) gunned down by main guard Front Man ( Lee Byung-hun ) just as the two reached the control room. "Player 456, did you have fun playing the hero?" Front Man asked Gi-hun as he bled on the floor after being wounded by a bullet. "Look at the consequences of your little hero game." And according to Squid Game creator Hwang Dong-hyuk , the consequences of his actions will be further laid out in season three. "When I was thinking about the idea for the ending of season three, I think it sort of naturally came to me that this was the finale," he told The Hollywood Reporter in November. "I believed that with that story, I was able to tell everything that I wanted to tell through the story of Squid Game and also in the perspective of Gi-hun as a character, and I thought that we don’t need any further stories from here." So, what can fans expect from season three? Here's everything to know. An exact premiere date for Squid Game 's third season has not been announced, though Netflix said the final episodes will be released some time in 2025. As the set-up at the end of season two suggests, the deadly game will continue on. In a scene following the season two credits, three players—clad in the iconic green jumpsuits—walk into a room flanked by the giant murderous doll from the "Red Light, Green Light" challenge and her male counterpart. "That's actually a [sneak peek] of Cheol-su, who, like Young-hee, is a new giant doll that we're going to be showcasing in season 3," Squid Game creator Dong-hyuk told Entertainment Weekly in an interview published Dec. 24. "And that's also a hint at the most exciting game in season 3 as well." He added, "I hope everyone will be excited to meet Cheol-su and the new game." According to Dong-hyuk, the hero player "has experienced too many things, witnessed too many deaths" for him to walk away from the game after winning 45.6 billion won in season one. That's why Gi-hun vowed revenge on the makers of the game. “The way you see Gi-hun in season one and the state that you see him in in season two are very different," Dong-hyuk told THR , adding that "throughout seasons two and three, it’s going to be about that very journey by Gi-hun that you’re going to be following, both physically and emotionally." As you wait to see how things will end for Gi-hun, keep reading to find out when your other favorite TV shows will return. Selling the City (Netflix) - Jan. 3 From the creators of Selling Sunset and Selling The OC comes Selling The City , a new series following a dynamic group of no-nonsense, kickass agents at Douglas Elliman as they navigate the cutthroat world of luxury real estate in New York City. From intense competition to the fast-paced careers and personal dramas of these agents, Selling The City promises to deliver all the excitement against the stunning backdrop of the city’s real estate landscape. Southern Hospitality (Bravo) - Jan. 2 After holding court on King Street for over a decade, Republic has become the crown jewel of Charleston nightlife. Leva Bonaparte has revitalized her club with captivating additions to her staff, but as workplace romances sizzle and relationships fizzle, balancing it all becomes a tall order during season three. With a squeeze of shade, a dash of drama and rumors added to the mix, the party must go on in this VIP team’s exhilarating world. Animal Control (Fox) - Jan. 2 The Joel McHale -led comedy returns for season three. Lockerbie: A Search for Truth (Peacock) - Jan. 2 Inspired by the true-life story, on December 21, 1988, 259 passengers and crew were killed when Pan Am Flight 103 exploded over Lockerbie, with a further 11 residents losing their life as the plane came down over the quiet, Scottish town. In the wake of the disaster and his daughter’s death, Dr. Jim Swire ( Colin Firth ), is nominated spokesperson for the U.K. victims’ families, who have united to demand truth and justice. Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action (Netflix) - Jan. 7 This jaw-dropping two-part series will tell the story of The Jerry Springer Show as it’s never been told before. Packed with extraordinary first-hand testimony and revelations from show insiders, the series explores how this daytime talk show became one of the biggest and most outrageous TV hits of the nineties. But behind the entertaining facade lay some darker truths. As we hear from the producers and ex-guests of The Jerry Springer Show , a murkier picture begins to emerge of the destruction it caused, raising renewed questions about who was responsible, and how far things should go in the name of entertainment Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta (MTV) - Jan. 7 The powerhouse cast features Amy Luciani , Ashley Conley , Bambi , Erica Banks , Erica Dixon , Jasmine Bleu , Jessica White , Karlie Redd , Kendra Robinson , Khaotic , Kirk Frost , Lil Zane , Mendeecees , Momma Dee , Rasheeda , Renni Rucci , Saucy Santana , Scrappy , Shekinah Jo , Sierra Gates , Spice , Yandy , Yung Joc , ZellSwag and newcomers Latin recording artist International Nova and his wife, Cristina Nova . The Rookie (ABC) - Jan. 7 The Rookie makes its midseason return Jan. 7. Deal or No Deal Island (NBC) - Jan. 7 In season two of Deal or No Deal Island , briefcases are hidden around the island with more than $200 million in prize money split between them. In each episode, players compete in daring challenges to secure the briefcases that will be used in that night’s game of “Deal or No Deal.” The player who snags the highest-value case gains immunity and gets to choose a fellow player to enter “The Temple.” Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action (Netflix) - Jan. 7 This jaw-dropping, premium two-part series will tell the story of The Jerry Springer Show as it’s never been told before. Packed with extraordinary first-hand testimony and revelations from show insiders, the series explores how this daytime talk show became one of the biggest and most outrageous TV hits of the nineties. But behind the entertaining facade lay some darker truths. As we hear from the producers and ex-guests of The Jerry Springer Show , a murkier picture begins to emerge of the destruction it caused, raising renewed questions about who was responsible, and how far things should go in the name of entertainment. High Potential (ABC) - Jan. 7 The comedy returns Jan. 7. Will Trent (ABC) - Jan. 7 The ABC series makes its midseason return Jan. 7. DOC (Fox) - Jan. 7 Doc stars Molly Parker ( House of Cards ) as the hard-charging, brilliant Chief of Internal Medicine Dr. Amy Larsen, who suffers a brain injury that erases the last eight years of her memory. The accident leaves her with no recollection of patients she’s treated, colleagues she’s crossed, the soulmate she divorced, the man she now loves and the tragedy that caused her to push almost everyone away. But with the immense loss, comes a second chance to do things differently. #OneChicago (NBC) - Jan. 8 Chicago Med, Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. all return Jan. 8. The Deal or No Deal Island After Show with Boston Rob (Peacock) - Jan. 8 The Deal or No Deal Island After Show with Boston Rob will be hosted by season one islander and reality competition all-star Boston Rob Mariano . The aftershow will premiere on Jan. 8 on Peacock, YouTube and NBC.com. Special Forces" World's Toughest Test (Fox) - Jan. 8 The reality competition series returns for season three with a whole new crop of celebrity contestants. Shifting Gears (ABC) - Jan. 8 Shifting Gears stars Tim Allen as Matt, the stubborn, widowed owner of a classic car restoration shop. When Matt’s estranged daughter ( Kat Dennings ) and her kids move into his house, the real restoration begins. The Traitors (Peacock) - Jan. 9 Peacock’s Emmy Award-winning competition reality series returns for a third season with an all-new lineup of familiar faces, hosted again by the impossibly stylish and devastatingly witty Alan Cumming . On Call (Prime Video) - Jan. 9 On Call is an adrenalized and visceral police drama that follows a rookie and veteran officer duo as they go on patrol in Long Beach, California. Incorporating a mixture of bodycam, dash-camera, and cellphone footage to create a cinema verité effect, the innovative series explores the morality of protecting and serving a community. Goosebumps: The Vanishing (Hulu & Disney+) - Jan. 10 Goosebumps: The Vanishing begins when twins Cece and Devin Brewer are sent to spend a summer in Gravesend, Brooklyn, with their divorced dad. A threat is stirring, and they quickly realize that dark secrets are among them, triggering a chain of events that unravel a profound mystery. As they delve into the unknown, Cece, Devin and their friends—Alex, CJ and Frankie—find themselves entangled in the chilling tale of four teenagers who mysteriously vanished in 1994. Law & Order: Speial Victims Unit (NBC) - Jan. 16 The crime drama returns for season 26. Law & Order (NBC) - Jan. 16 Season 24 of the procedural debuts Jan. 16. XO, Kitty (Netflix) - Jan. 16 Teen matchmaker Kitty Song Covey is back in Seoul for a new semester at KISS. She's single for the first time in a long time, and ready for a fresh start: no more meddling, no more drama. Maybe just some casual dating. Emphasis on casual. But she has more to worry about than her love life, as a letter from her mother's past sets her on a wild journey, and new faces at KISS bring change. As secrets unravel and bonds are tested, Kitty will learn that life, family and love are more complicated than she ever imagined. Severance (AppleTV+) - Jan. 17 Season two reunites its ensemble cast of stars including Emmy Award nominee Adam Scott , Britt Lower , Tramell Tillman , Zach Cherry , Jen Tullock , Michael Chernus , Dichen Lachman , Emmy Award winner John Turturro , Academy Award winner Christopher Walken and Academy and Emmy Award winner Patricia Arquette , and welcomes new series regular Sarah Bock . The Couple Next Door (Starz) - Jan. 17 The Couple Next Door explores the claustrophobia of suburbia and the fallout of chasing your deepest desires. When Evie and Pete move into the upscale neighborhood with the dream of starting a family, they soon find friendship in the shape of the couple next door, alpha traffic cop Danny and his wife, glamorous yoga instructor Becka. As time goes on, these two couples get increasingly close to each other and one fateful night, become sexually entangled in a way that will change their lives forever. 9-1-1: Lone Star (Fox) - Jan. 20 The drama's final episodes begin Jan. 20. Rescue: Hi-Surf (Fox) - Jan. 20 The drama returns. Prime Target (AppleTV+) - Jan. 22 Prime Target features a brilliant young math postgraduate, Edward Brooks ( Leo Woodall ), on the verge of a major breakthrough. If he succeeds in finding a pattern in prime numbers, he will hold the key to every computer in the world. Soon he begins to realize an unseen enemy is trying to destroy his idea before it’s even born, which throws him into the orbit of Taylah Sanders, a female NSA agent ( Quintessa Swindell ) who’s been tasked with watching and reporting on mathematicians' behavior. Together they start to unravel the troubling conspiracy Edward is at the heart of. W.A.G.s to Riches (Netflix) - Jan. 22 The new reality series takes you inside the high-stakes world of ambitious women in Miami, connected to the city’s most elite athletes, musicians, and power players. This docu-soap follows a bold group of women who are breaking the mold and building empires of their own, balancing thriving careers, motherhood, and high-profile relationships—all while dealing with the glamour and drama that come with their affluent lives. From battling blog-fueled gossip to competing in a city where connections are everything, these women are out to prove they’re more than just the trophies behind the men, with some even out-earning their famous male counterparts. The Night Agent (Netflix) - Jan.23 Based on the novel by Matthew Quirk , The Night Agent is a sophisticated, character-based, action-thriller centering on a low level FBI Agent, Peter Sutherland, whose efforts to save The President in season one earn him an opportunity to become a Night Agent in season two. But working in the secretive organization of Night Action will propel Peter into a world where danger is everywhere and trust is in short supply. The Bachelor (ABC) - Jan. 27 Grant Ellis ' journey to find love will continue as he takes on the role of leading man for the 29th season of The Bachelor . The adventurous day trader, known for his genuine desire to build a future centered on family, will begin handing out roses when his season premieres next month.
Display and Camera:The slump in the number of people heading to the shops during Boxing Day sales signals a return to declining pre-pandemic levels, an analyst has said. Boxing Day shopper footfall was down 7.6% from last year across all UK retail destinations up until 8pm, MRI Software’s OnLocation Footfall Index found. However, this year’s data had been compared with an unusual spike in footfall as 2023 was the first “proper Christmas” period without Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, an analyst at the retail technology company said. It found £4.6 billion will be spent overall on the festive sales. Before the pandemic the number of Boxing Day shoppers on the streets had been declining year on year. The last uplift recorded by MRI was in 2015. Jenni Matthews, marketing and insights director at MRI Software, told the PA news agency: “We’ve got to bear in mind that (last year) was our first proper Christmas without any (Covid-19) restrictions or limitations. “Figures have come out that things have stabilised, we’re almost back to what we saw pre-pandemic.” There were year-on-year declines in footfall anywhere between 5% and 12% before Covid-19 restrictions, she said. MRI found 12% fewer people were out shopping on Boxing Day in 2019 than in 2018, and there were 3% fewer in 2018 than in 2017, Ms Matthews added. She said: “It’s the shift to online shopping, it’s the convenience, you’ve got the family days that take place on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.” People are also increasingly stocking-up before Christmas, Ms Matthews said, and MRI found an 18% increase in footfall at all UK retail destinations on Christmas Eve this year compared with 2023. Ms Matthews said: “We see the shops are full of people all the way up to Christmas Eve, so they’ve probably got a couple of good days of food, goodies, everything that they need, and they don’t really need to go out again until later on in that week. “We did see that big boost on Christmas Eve. It looks like shoppers may have concentrated much of their spending in that pre-Christmas rush.” Many online sales kicked off between December 23 and the night of Christmas Day and “a lot of people would have grabbed those bargains from the comfort of their own home”, she said. She added: “I feel like it’s becoming more and more common that people are grabbing the bargains pre-Christmas.” Footfall is expected to rise on December 27 as people emerge from family visits and shops re-open, including Next, Marks and Spencer and John Lewis that all shut for Boxing Day. It will also be payday for some as it is the last Friday of the month. A study by Barclays Consumer Spend had forecast that shoppers would spend £236 each on average in the Boxing Day sales this year, but that the majority of purchases would be made online. Nearly half of respondents said the cost-of-living crisis will affect their post-Christmas shopping but the forecast average spend is still £50 more per person than it was before the pandemic, with some of that figure because of inflation, Barclays said. Amid the financial pressures, many people are planning to buy practical, perishable and essential items such as food and kitchenware. A total of 65% of shoppers are expecting to spend the majority of their sales budget online. Last year, Barclays found 63.9% of Boxing Day retail purchases were made online. However, a quarter of respondents aim to spend mostly in store – an 11% rise compared with last year. Karen Johnson, head of retail at Barclays, said: “Despite the ongoing cost-of-living pressures, it is encouraging to hear that consumers will be actively participating in the post-Christmas sales. “This year, we’re likely to see a shift towards practicality and sustainability, with more shoppers looking to bag bargains on kitchen appliances and second-hand goods.” Consumers choose in-store shopping largely because they enjoy the social aspect and touching items before they buy, Barclays said, adding that high streets and shopping centres are the most popular destinations.As the dust settled, it became clear that the initial backlash against Dei had been unwarranted and based on a misunderstanding of the facts. The designer had not intended to offend or appropriate, but rather to show support and solidarity for a friend in need. The episode served as a reminder of the dangers of jumping to conclusions and the importance of seeking out all the facts before passing judgment.
In terms of fiscal policy, the Chinese government has continued to prioritize investment in strategic sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and green energy. This targeted spending has not only boosted domestic demand and created employment opportunities but has also laid the foundation for future productivity gains and innovation. Moreover, fiscal stimulus packages have been carefully calibrated to avoid overheating the economy and exacerbating debt levels, signaling a prudent and forward-looking fiscal stance.
That displeasure tracks with the bipartisan uproar in Washington that ignited over the president's about-face. The survey found that a relatively small share of Americans "strongly" or "somewhat" approve of the pardon, which came after the younger Biden was convicted on gun and tax charges. About half said they "strongly" or "somewhat" disapprove, and about 2 in 10 neither approve nor disapprove. The Democratic president said repeatedly that he would not use his pardon power for the benefit of his family, and the White House continued to insist, even after Republican Donald Trump's election win in November, that Biden's position had not changed — until it suddenly did. "I know it's not right to believe politicians as far as what they say compared to what they do, but he did explicitly say, 'I will not pardon my son,'" said Peter Prestia, a 59-year-old Republican from Woodland Park, New Jersey, just west of New York City, who said he strongly disagreed with the move. "So, it's just the fact that he went back on his word." In issuing a pardon Dec. 1, Biden argued that the Justice Department had presided over a "miscarriage of justice" in prosecuting his son. The president used some of the same kind of language that Trump does to describe the criminal cases against him and his other legal predicaments. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said it was a decision that Biden struggled with but came to shortly before he made the announcement, "because of how politically infected these cases were" as well as "what his political opponents were trying to do." The poll found that about 4 in 10 Democrats approve of the pardon, while about 3 in 10 disapprove and about one-quarter did not have an opinion or did not know enough to say. The vast majority of Republicans and about half of independents had a negative opinion. For some, it was easy to see family taking priority over politics. "Do you have kids?" asked Robert Jenkins, a 63-year-old Democrat who runs a lumber yard and gas station in Gallipolis, Ohio. "You're gonna leave office and not pardon your kid? I mean, it's a no-brainer to me." But Prestia, who is semiretired from working for a digital marketing conglomerate, said Biden would have been better off not making promises. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts "He does have that right to pardon anybody he wants. But he just should have kept his mouth shut, and he did it because it was before the election, so it's just a bold-faced lie," Prestia said. Despite the unpopularity of his decision, the president's approval rating has not shifted meaningfully since before his party lost the White House to Trump. About 4 in 10 Americans "somewhat" or "strongly" approve of the way Biden is handling his job as president, which is about where his approval rating stood in AP-NORC polls since January 2022. Still, the pardon keeps creating political shock waves, with Republicans, and even some top Democrats, decrying it. Older adults are more likely than younger ones to approve of Biden's pardoning his son, according to the poll, though their support is not especially strong. About one-third of those ages 60 and older approve, compared with about 2 in 10 adults under 60. The age divide is driven partially by the fact that younger adults are more likely than older ones to say they neither approve nor disapprove of the pardon or that they do not know enough to say. About 6 in 10 white adults disapprove of the pardon, compared with slightly less than half of Hispanic adults and about 3 in 10 Black adults. Relatively large shares of Black and Hispanic Americans — about 3 in 10 — were neutral, the poll found. "Don't say you're gonna do something and then fall back," said Trinell Champ, 43, a Democrat from Nederland, Texas, who works in the home health industry and said she disapproved of the pardon. "At the end of the day, all you have is your word." Champ, who is Black, voted for Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris over Trump. "I just had my hopes up for her, but I wasn't 100% positive," she said. Champ also said she does not approve of Biden's handling of the presidency and thinks the country is on the wrong track. "While he was in office, I felt like I really didn't see a lot of changes," she said. "I just felt like everything just kind of stayed the same," Champ said. Overall, though, the pardon did not appear to be a driving factor in many Americans' assessment of Biden's job performance. The share of Black Americans who approve of the way he is handling his job as president did fall slightly since October, but it is hard to assess what role the pardon may have played.Furthermore, the linear narrative in "Brothers of Four Seas" opens up new storytelling possibilities and allows for a more focused and cohesive storytelling experience. By presenting the events in a linear progression, the filmmakers can create a sense of momentum and momentum, building tension and suspense as the story unfolds towards its climax. This approach also enables a more structured and coherent narrative arc, with clear character arcs and thematic developments that resonate with the audience on a deeper level. The linear narrative allows for a more impactful and resonant storytelling experience, drawing viewers into the world of "Brothers of Four Seas" and immersing them in its rich tapestry of drama, action, and intrigue.
AN ICONIC American muscle car with right-hand drive has gone for sale in the UK for the first time. For the same price as a BMW M4, passionate drivers can now officially buy the classic Chevrolet Corvette Stingray without having to import it from the United States. Leading car dealership Lumen Automotive has become the first car outlet to offer right-hand Corvettes to motorists. The two models on offer are the standard Corvette Stringray and the sportier Corvette Z06 which is more track-focused. Brits will no longer have to import the iconic muscle car from the US which can cost significantly more money due to taxes. The rear-wheel-drive muscle car costs less than £95,000, which is about the same price you would pay for a BMW M4. But the all-out American sprinter can reach 60mph quicker than the BMW racer. Under the hood comes a roaring 6.2-litre V8 naturally aspirated engine that can produce a whopping 475bhp while churning out 637lb-ft of torque output. And to make the driving experience even better, the engine comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission system that makes the driving Filippo Caracciolo, European distribution manager for Corvette, said: “Bringing the C8 Corvette Stingray and Z06 in a right-hand-drive configuration to the UK is a defining moment for the brand. “As a global icon of performance and innovation, the Corvette represents the pinnacle of automotive excellence. "Our affiliation with Lumen Automotive will offer a seamless entry into the UK market, and we’re excited to deliver the Corvette’s unparalleled engineering and exhilarating driving experience to British enthusiasts and collectors.” Ashley Passant, managing director of the Greenhouse Group, which owns Lumen Automotive, told Autoexpress: "With its rich legacy of innovation and performance, the Corvette is a great match for us and our customers. "We’re proud to represent this globally iconic marque and bring its extraordinary driving experience to the UK.” Meanwhile, a first-edition 1973 Ford Escort Mk1 RS2000, restored to its original glory, is set to go under the hammer. The iconic classic, a symbol of 70s motoring, has undergone a £130,000 transformation, making it one of the finest examples of its kind to hit the auction block. Known for its striking Diamond White finish with Olympic Blue detailing on the doors and bonnet, the motor will now go to auction with an estimated price of £80,000. The Ford has undergone a no-expense-spared restoration over the past four years, aimed at bringing the car as close to its original form as possible, using authentic parts and techniques. The interior is a testament to the car’s heritage, featuring an all-black design with fabric seats and a steering wheel proudly bearing the RS logo. This attention to detail is matched by the extensive mechanical work performed during the restoration. The arduous facelift began in 2019 with a full disassembly and meticulous inspection of the car’s bodyshell. The shell was dipped and repaired before being sent to a specialist e-coating facility to ensure long-lasting protection. Original parts and NOS (New Old Stock) components were sourced throughout the process to maintain authenticity. The 2-litre engine, which distinguished the RS2000 from its more high-strung RS1600 sibling, was rebuilt by David Moore Engineering, while the gearbox and rear axle were restored by Copthorne Classics. The auction, scheduled for December at the Warwickshire Event Centre, is being handled by Iconic Auctioneers. According to the auction listing, the car’s restoration is "one of the most exacting restorations witnessed and surely the best available." It comes after an ultra-rare iconic car with a high speed of 250mph and a hydraulic spoiler hit the market for £840,000 .
In conclusion, while Huawei has demonstrated remarkable capabilities in autonomous driving technology through its Huawei HiCar system, automotive companies are showing a preference for collaborating with Momenta for a variety of reasons. Momenta's specialization in autonomous driving solutions, flexibility in collaboration approach, industry reputation, and data security considerations are all factors that contribute to automotive companies' inclination towards partnering with the Chinese startup. By leveraging the strengths and expertise of specialized partners like Momenta, automotive companies can accelerate the development and deployment of autonomous driving technology, driving innovation and transformation in the automotive industry.Fuming Omer Riza blasts Cardiff City players who were 'nowhere near it' and addresses fans' boos
As news of Liu's passing spread, an outpouring of grief and condolences flooded social media channels, with fans expressing shock and disbelief at the tragic turn of events. Many remembered Liu for her infectious smile, her positive energy, and her dedication to her work. Her sudden departure has left a gaping hole in the hearts of those who followed her every move and admired her from afar.In a statement announcing the launch of the new service, Amazon highlighted the company's focus on continuously raising the bar when it comes to delivery speed and reliability. With the 15-minute delivery promise, Amazon seeks to redefine the standard for express delivery services in India, setting a new benchmark for the industry as a whole.