“Avatar: Fire and Ash” has made a significant impact at the box office, opening with a remarkable $345 million in global sales, according to studio estimates released on Sunday. This figure positions it as the second-highest global debut of the year, reinforcing James Cameron’s status as a master of blockbuster filmmaking. The latest installment in the “Avatar” saga, which has captivated audiences for over 16 years, grossed $88 million domestically and $257 million internationally.
While the film’s performance is impressive, it fell short of the $2.3 billion earned by its predecessor, “Avatar: The Way of Water,” released in 2022. The only film to outperform “Fire and Ash” in 2025 was “Zootopia 2,” suggesting that while enthusiasm for the franchise remains strong, it may be experiencing a slight decline.
Entertainment Highlights: Notable Events and Departures
In other entertainment news, Bowen Yang bid farewell to “Saturday Night Live” after an emotional Christmas episode hosted by Ariana Grande. Yang, who joined the show as a writer in 2018 and later became a fan favorite, left the show mid-season following a poignant sketch that showcased his talent and emotional depth. He was a prominent figure during his tenure, earning five Emmy nominations.
Meanwhile, rapper Nicki Minaj surprised attendees at the Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest convention in Arizona by expressing her support for former President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, calling them “role models” for young men. This marked a notable shift from her previous criticisms of Trump, potentially aligning her more closely with conservative ideals.
Industry Changes and Personal Milestones
In a significant development, British children’s author and comedian David Walliams has denied allegations of inappropriate behavior following HarperCollins’ decision to halt the publication of his future works. Walliams, known for his bestselling children’s books and as a former judge on “Britain’s Got Talent,” has sold over 60 million copies globally. He stated through a spokesperson that he was never informed of any allegations.
In legal matters, a judge has overturned the conviction of Karl Jordan Jr., one of the men found guilty in the 2002 murder of hip-hop star Jam Master Jay. U.S. District Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall ruled that evidence presented during the trial did not sufficiently establish Jordan’s motive for the killing. This decision follows nearly two years after the jury’s verdict.
On a lighter note, a life ring and a piece of a lifeboat from the infamous Edmund Fitzgerald shipwreck have sold at auction for $150,000. The auction followed the 50th anniversary of the ship’s sinking in 1975, which resulted in the loss of all 29 crew members. The artifacts were discovered by Larry Orr shortly after the incident.
In personal news, actor Pete Davidson and model Elsie Hewitt have welcomed the birth of their daughter, Scottie Rose Hewitt Davidson, born on December 12, 2025. The couple shared their joy on Instagram, with Davidson hinting at a tribute to his late father, a New York City firefighter who perished in the September 11 attacks.
Lastly, the Brazilian film “The Secret Agent” is gaining traction as it opens in U.S. theaters. Directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho, the film has garnered acclaim at festivals, including significant awards at Cannes. It tells the story of a scientist targeted by Brazil’s military dictatorship in the 1970s, offering a poignant exploration of identity and memory amid historical turmoil.
The entertainment landscape continues to evolve, showcasing a blend of triumphs, controversies, and personal milestones that resonate with audiences worldwide.
