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Just days before his death on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48 following a battle with colorectal cancer, actor James Van Der Beek privately renewed his wedding vows with his wife, Kimberly. The intimate ceremony, arranged with the help of close friends, offered a poignant final moment for the couple and their loved ones. This touching act of devotion underscores the deep connection Van Der Beek shared with his family in the face of his illness.
Kimberly Van Der Beek shared details of the impromptu vow renewal with People magazine, describing it as “simple and elegant and moving.” Friends quickly secured new rings and transformed their bedroom into a romantic setting with flowers and candles. The ceremony included musical accompaniment from Brazilian multi-instrumentalist Poranguí, who played “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” as the couple reaffirmed their commitment to one another.
James and Kimberly first met in 2009 while vacationing in Israel, and they married on August 1, 2010, in Tel Aviv at the Kabbalah Centre, according to Prime Timer. Together, they raised six children: Olivia, 15; Annabel, 12; Emilia, 9; Gwendolyn, 7; Joshua, 13; and Jeremiah, 4.
Italian singer-songwriter Levante is set to compete in the 76th Sanremo Music Festival in February 2026 with her new song, “Sei Tu.” The artist’s participation comes as the annual competition prepares to take place later in the month than usual, due to scheduling conflicts with the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Italy. The festival, a cornerstone of Italian music and culture, will run from February 24th to 28th at the Teatro Ariston in Sanremo, and is presented by Carlo Conti and Laura Pausini.
Levante’s entry, “Sei Tu,” is described as a song exploring themes of love, and arrives after a period of personal challenges for the artist, including postpartum depression and public scrutiny regarding her body. The Sanremo Music Festival often serves as a launchpad for Italian artists, with the winner earning the right of first refusal to represent Italy in the Eurovision Song Contest. However, Levante has already indicated she would decline that opportunity should she win, citing concerns over Israel’s participation in the contest.
Levante’s Journey to Sanremo 2026
The 2026 edition of Sanremo will feature 30 competing artists in the “Big” category, alongside four newcomers. Levante is among those vying for the top spot, bringing a deeply personal narrative to the stage. She is known for her candidness about her experiences, and “Sei Tu” appears to be a continuation of that openness. The song was written by Claudia Lagona, according to Eurovisionworld.
Levante’s decision to potentially forgo Eurovision, even in the event of a Sanremo victory, stems from her strong political stance regarding Israel’s inclusion in the competition. She publicly stated that she finds the event “much more politicized than you might think,” and expressed her discomfort with participating while “a country that has recently created enormous tragedies and an ongoing genocide” is involved, as reported by Eurovisionfun. This stance aligns with a growing movement among artists who are questioning the political implications of the Eurovision Song Contest.
Sanremo and Eurovision: A Complex Relationship
The Sanremo Music Festival has a long and storied history, dating back to 1951. It has consistently been a significant cultural event in Italy, showcasing the country’s musical talent and influencing popular trends. Since 2015, the winner of Sanremo has been given the first opportunity to represent Italy at Eurovision. However, as Levante’s case demonstrates, this is not an automatic acceptance, and artists retain the right to decline the invitation.
The potential for multiple artists to refuse Eurovision participation due to Israel’s involvement has raised questions about the future of Italy’s representation in the contest. While political statements are prohibited on stage at the Teatro Ariston, the issue is clearly resonating with some of the participating artists. The festival’s artistic director, Carlo Conti, and musical director, Pinuccio Pirazzoli, will be tasked with navigating these sensitive issues during the event.
Levante performed “Sei Tu” on the first night of the festival, February 24th, 2026, and again on February 27th, accompanied by Gaia as a guest artist, according to Eurovisionworld.
What to Expect Next
As the Sanremo Music Festival 2026 progresses, all eyes will be on the performances and the unfolding dynamics between the artists and the organizers. The festival’s outcome will not only determine Italy’s potential representative at Eurovision but will also spark further conversations about the intersection of music, politics, and social responsibility. The final results will be announced on February 28th, 2026.
What are your thoughts on Levante’s decision? Share your opinions in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with your friends and fellow music enthusiasts!
Fans of the high-speed adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog have a modern reason to celebrate. Actress Kristen Bell is officially joining the cast of Sonic the Hedgehog 4, lending her voice to the beloved character Amy Rose. The announcement, made by Ben Schwartz – who voices Sonic himself – on social media, confirms a long-anticipated addition to the film franchise. This casting brings a fan-favorite character from the video game series to the considerable screen, teased in a post-credit scene following Sonic the Hedgehog 3.
The Sonic the Hedgehog films have become a significant success for Paramount Pictures, exceeding $1 billion in total franchise revenue. The most recent installment, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, proved to be the highest-grossing film in the series, earning over $490 million worldwide. The film debuted at number one domestically for two consecutive weeks and topped box office charts in over 30 international markets, including the U.K., Mexico, Italy, and Australia. Beyond theatrical earnings, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 generated over $180 million in global consumer spending through home entertainment rentals and purchases.
Bell’s involvement adds another layer of star power to the already impressive voice cast. Alongside Schwartz as Sonic, the film features Idris Elba as Knuckles and Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Tails. Jim Carrey is also set to return as the iconic villain, Dr. Robotnik. The studio reportedly prioritized securing an A-list actress for the role of Amy Rose, according to a report from The Direct, seeking someone with broad recognizability.
The character of Amy Rose has been a staple of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise since its inception, known for her energetic personality and unwavering affection for Sonic. Her inclusion in the fourth film is expected to resonate with longtime fans of the video game series.
Beyond the world of speedy hedgehogs, Bell has been keeping busy. She recently reprised her role in the second season of the Emmy-nominated Netflix series Do Not Call Me Names, alongside Adam Brody, where she also serves as an executive producer. Her recent film credits include leading roles in the Amazon Prime comedy The People We Hate at the Wedding, featuring Allison Janney and Ben Platt, and the Netflix parody comedy The Woman in the House.
Jeff Fowler is returning to direct Sonic the Hedgehog 4, with Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, and Toru Nakahara producing. The film is currently slated for release on March 19, 2027.
The success of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise demonstrates the enduring appeal of the character and the potential for continued expansion within the film universe. With the addition of Amy Rose and the return of familiar faces, Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is poised to continue the momentum of its predecessors.
As production ramps up for Sonic the Hedgehog 4, fans eagerly await further details about the film’s plot and the portrayal of Amy Rose. The upcoming movie promises to deliver more high-octane action and heartwarming moments for audiences of all ages.
What are your thoughts on Kristen Bell joining the cast? Share your excitement in the comments below!
Chicago’s Lyric Opera of Chicago is set to present its annual “Rising Stars in Concert” in 2026, a showcase of the exceptional talent nurtured by The Patrick G. And Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center. The performance, featuring members of the 2025/26 Ensemble, will be a highlight of the opera season, offering audiences a glimpse into the future of operatic performance. This concert isn’t just a performance; it’s a symbolic graduation for the outgoing members of the Ensemble, marking the culmination of their rigorous training.
The Ryan Opera Center, a cornerstone of Lyric Opera’s commitment to artist development, has been shaping the next generation of opera singers for nearly 50 years. Founded in 1974, the program has supported nearly 300 alumni, many of whom have gone on to achieve international acclaim. The program’s success is built on a foundation of dedicated mentorship and unparalleled performance opportunities, preparing artists for the world’s most prestigious stages. The 2025/26 concert builds on a legacy celebrated throughout the 2024/25 season, which marked the Ryan Opera Center’s 50th anniversary.
The 2026 concert will be conducted by Lyric’s Music Director, Enrique Mazzola, and directed by Lyric’s Chief Artistic Administration Officer, Matthew Ozawa. The program will feature selections from Donizetti’s Viva la mamma, a witty and irreverent comedy known for its chaotic depiction of opera production and its famously demanding stage mother. Alongside this piece, the Ensemble will perform additional repertoire designed to highlight their diverse skills and range.
Lyric Opera of Chicago’s dedication to fostering emerging artists is evident in the program’s impact. Alumni like René Barbera, J’Nai Bridges, Nicole Cabell, Quinn Kelsey, Will Liverman, Matthew Polenzani, and Christian Van Horn have all credited the Ryan Opera Center with providing crucial early professional opportunities and refining their artistry. The program’s rigorous training and mentorship have consistently launched careers, solidifying its reputation as a premier artist-development program. Lyric Opera of Chicago continues to lead the advancement of opera in America through initiatives like the Ryan Opera Center.
A Legacy of Nurturing Operatic Talent
The Patrick G. And Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center has become synonymous with excellence in operatic training. Since its inception, the Center has provided a unique environment for young artists to hone their skills, develop their stage presence, and build a network of support within the opera world. The program’s holistic approach, encompassing vocal coaching, dramatic interpretation, and musical studies, prepares artists for the multifaceted demands of a professional career. The Chicago Crusader highlighted the program’s importance as a culmination of the 2024/25 Ensemble’s season.
What to Expect from the 2026 Performance
Attendees of “Rising Stars in Concert 2026” can anticipate an evening of exceptional musicality and dramatic flair. The selection of Viva la mamma promises a lighthearted and engaging experience, showcasing the Ensemble’s comedic timing and vocal agility. The additional repertoire will further demonstrate the breadth of their talent, offering a diverse and captivating program. The concert will be performed at the Lyric Opera House, providing a stunning backdrop for these rising stars. Details about the concert are available on the Lyric Opera of Chicago website.
The performance is free to attend, offering an accessible opportunity to experience the artistry of tomorrow’s opera stars. The Ryan Opera Center’s commitment to making opera accessible to a wider audience is reflected in this offering, encouraging new patrons to discover the power and beauty of the art form.
As the Ryan Opera Center continues its mission of developing the next generation of opera artists, “Rising Stars in Concert 2026” promises to be a memorable event, showcasing the exceptional talent and dedication of the Ensemble. The concert serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the program and its vital role in shaping the future of opera.
Share your thoughts on the upcoming concert and the importance of artist development programs in the comments below.