Audra McDonald leads 2025 Tony Awards nominees, Funke Akindele announces plan to return to politics, Maya Jama finally confirms romance with Man City star Ruben Dias. Stay in the know with our Rave News Digest, which summarizes five of the hottest global news stories you need to catch up on, saving you time and energy. Consider it your daily news fix.
Here is a rundown of five of the hottest news topics…
1. Audra McDonald leads 2025 Tony Awards nominees
Audra McDonald makes Tony Awards history as the singular most nominated performer with 11 nominations. pic.twitter.com/CqtdK2ChTQ
— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) May 1, 2025
The 2025 Tony Awards nominations have been unveiled, and Broadway’s brightest Black talents are taking center stage. Audra McDonald, a titan of the theater world, leads this year’s pack with a record-breaking 11 Tony Award nominations for her critically acclaimed performance in Gypsy. Already a six-time Tony winner, Audra McDonald now holds the title of the most-nominated performer in Tony Awards history, further cementing her legendary status in American theatre.
Joining her among the standout nominees is LaTanya Richardson Jackson, who received a nod for Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Play for her commanding performance in Purpose. Sarah Paulson and Wendell Pierce announced the nominations on CBS Mornings, spotlighting a diverse slate of talent. The ceremony, hosted by Wicked star Cynthia Erivo, will broadcast live from Radio City Music Hall on June 8 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS and Paramount+, promising an evening that celebrates excellence and elevates Black artistry on Broadway.
2. Funke Akindele announces plan to return to politics
“Ask me, am I going into politics again? Oh yes!” — Funke Akindele
🔥🔥🔥#WithChudeLive#FunkeAkindele pic.twitter.com/TH7U5kVj9B
— Chude Jideonwo (@Chude) May 1, 2025
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has revealed plans to return to active politics, over a year after her initial political venture as the deputy governorship candidate for the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State. Akindele, who ran alongside PDP gubernatorial candidate Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor) in the 2023 general elections, faced defeat as the incumbent All Progressives Congress (APC) retained power. Despite the setback, Akindele stated during a live recording of the WithChude podcast that her passion for public service and giving back remains undiminished.
Reflecting on her first political experience, the actress noted that although the journey was fraught with challenges such as political violence and intense scrutiny, it was also a powerful learning curve. “Oh yes, I love it,” she said of her political ambition. “You have to be bold. You have to be courageous. You have to be strong.” Akindele emphasized that her time in politics deepened her understanding of governance and statistics, inspiring her to educate herself further about Nigeria’s sociopolitical landscape. Following the 2023 elections, she had removed political content from her social media and maintained a low political profile—until now, signaling a renewed commitment to the cause.
3. Tyla and Doja Cat to host 2025 Met Gala afterparty
Doja Cat and Tyla will host the #MetGala after-party together. pic.twitter.com/cKRxhs9nu1
— Buzzing Pop (@BuzzingPop) May 1, 2025
South African star Tyla and Doja Cat are set to co-host the official 2025 Met Gala Afterparty in New York City on Monday, May 5. The high-profile event promises to be a memorable night, with performances from international music heavyweights Kaytranada, Pedro, and Kitty Ca$h. Adding to the excitement, organizers have teased a surprise guest performance, fueling speculation and anticipation among fans and industry insiders alike.
The announcement of the duo teaming up to host the iconic fashion event’s afterparty has sparked excitement online, with netizens buzzing about a potential musical collaboration between the two global chart-toppers. Known for breaking barriers and putting South Africa on the global entertainment map, Tyla’s joint appearance with Doja Cat marks yet another career milestone. As fans await what could be a history-making night, one thing is clear—the South African royalty is taking over the world stage in style.
4. Four Nigerian artists feature on “F1 The Movie” soundtrack album
Nigerian artists set to feature on the “F1 THE MOVIE” Soundtrack 🤯
BURNA BOY
DARKOO
OBONGJAYAR
MR EAZIGlobal 🔥 pic.twitter.com/W2SISx1QWy
— 𝗔𝗟𝗕𝗨𝗠 𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞𝗦 📀 (@AlbumTalksHQ) May 1, 2025
In a major win for African music, four Nigerian artists—Burna Boy, Darkoo, Obongjayar, and Mr Eazi—have been officially confirmed as part of the star-studded lineup for the soundtrack of the highly anticipated F1 The Movie. The inclusion of these artists not only highlights the global influence of Nigerian music but also positions them alongside international powerhouses like Ed Sheeran, Doja Cat, Don Toliver, and Sexy Redd in what is expected to be one of the most electrifying soundtrack albums of the year.
The fusion of Afrobeats and global pop sounds is set to energize the high-speed world of Formula 1 racing, providing an exciting musical backdrop for fans. This milestone showcases Nigeria’s growing influence in global entertainment, with Burna Boy, Obongjayar, Darkoo, and Mr Eazi all contributing to the project. Anticipation for the soundtrack’s release is high, promising a vibrant celebration of culture and sound.
5. Maya Jama finally confirms romance with Man City star Ruben Dias
Maya Jama finally confirms Ruben Dias romance with kiss & bite to neck pic.twitter.com/D00ZOfdyL8
— The Sun (@TheSun) April 30, 2025
TV presenter Maya Jama has finally confirmed her romance with Manchester City defender Ruben Dias after the couple were spotted kissing and cuddling pitchside at a Baller League match. The pair were seen getting cosy behind the goal at East London’s Copper Box Arena, sharing intimate moments as Dias affectionately rubbed Jama’s back and kissed her cheek, much to the delight of onlookers. The sighting marks the couple’s first public appearance together, effectively putting months of dating speculation to rest.
Sources told The Sun that the duo appeared “very close, very loved up” and comfortable in each other’s company. It’s also been revealed that Jama has already met Dias’ mother, Bernadette, suggesting that their relationship is becoming increasingly serious. With their romance now out in the open, fans and paparazzi alike are expected to keep a keen eye on the couple as they continue to navigate their relationship in the public eye.
Featured Image: @FilmUpdates/X
Our Weekday News Digest summarizes five of the hottest news topics worldwide–including celebrity news from Hollywood to Nollywood, the latest trending global headlines from American reports to top African news today, and the best sports stories in 2025.
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