Harvey Weinstein defense urges acquittal as rape retrial nears a close

NEW YORK (AP) – Harvey Weinstein’s defense urged jurors Tuesday to put an end to a #MeToo-era rape case that has gone to trial three times, arguing that the former Hollywood honcho should be acquitted.

50 Cent, Nelly and The Chainsmokers to headline concert during World Cup

LOS ANGELES (AP) – Rappers 50 Cent and Nelly along with electronic music duo The Chainsmokers will headline a new four-city World Cup concert series launched by Sports Illustrated this summer.

The Cannes Film Festival is about to begin

For 12 days this week, the eyes of the movie world will be on the Cannes Film Festival. The Cote d’Azur spectacular will play host – starting on Tuesday – to some of the most anticipated movies of the year in a constant parade of red carpets and megawatt premieres.

'The Devil Wears Prada 2' bests 'Mortal Kombat II' at the box office

In a box office battle of the sequels, “The Devil Wears Prada 2” had the slight edge over “Mortal Kombat II” in North American theaters this weekend. According to studio estimates Sunday, “The Devil Wears Prada 2” earned a chart topping $43 million in its second weekend, while “Mortal Kombat II” took in $40 million in its first.

Tony Award for educators won by Georgia teacher who stresses self-empowerment

NEW YORK (AP) – At this year’s Tony Awards, sound designer Justin Ellington and performer-producer Kandi Burruss have gotten nominations to theater’s biggest prize. A man who helped both get there is also being highlighted.

$250,000 prize aims to spotlight those bringing American history to life

NEW YORK (AP) – As the country’s 250th anniversary approaches, The New York Historical has launched a $250,000 prize for those who have helped the public better understand the past. The David M. Rubenstein Prize for the Advancement of American History is named for and endowed by the philanthropist, financier and Baltimore Orioles owner.

Venice Biennale opens without a jury over Russian and Israeli participation

VENICE, Italy (AP) – Geopolitical tensions spilled over into the Venice Biennale contemporary art exhibition, which opens its most chaotic and contested edition in memory Saturday with no Golden Lions after the jury quit in protest of Israel’s and Russia’s participation and loud protests outside their pavilions.

Katy Perry will perform at SoFi Stadium before first World Cup game

CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) – Katy Perry will perform at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on June 12 before the first World Cup game in the United States, as FIFA announced entertainment Friday night before the initial matches in all three nations that will host games in the expanded 48-nation tournament.

David Attenborough, the excited but hushed voice of nature programs, turns 100

LONDON (AP) – The BBC is hosting a party for David Attenborough at the Royal Albert Hall. Cinemas are playing his nature films. Friends have spent weeks lavishing praise on the man and his work. But the world’s most famous wildlife presenter is likely to be uncomfortable with all the attention as he celebrates his 100th birthday on Friday.