SYDNEY, April 3, 2025 /CNW/ — The world’s original global influencer, long before the term existed, Martha Stewart, is set to join Vivid Sydney for an exclusive, one off, In Conversation event. Martha will reflect on her extraordinary career, the evolution of her personal brand, and the changing face of food, design and home life. She’ll also share candid insights into her most memorable moments in popular culture—and what it really takes to stay relevant for over four decades. “I have made some wonderful memories traveling to Australia over the years, so I am thrilled to return for Vivid Sydney. The conversation will be fun and honest, covering many aspects of my life and career”, says Martha Stewart. “I’m always looking for inspiration when I travel so I’m excited to see what Sydney has to offer.” In Conversation with Martha Stewart will take place at International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney on Wednesday, 28 May. The first self-made female billionaire, Martha Stewart is an Emmy Award® winning television host, and best-selling writer of 101 books. The go to source for homemaking and culinary inspiration around the world, Martha didn’t just live the American Dream – she defined it. From her first book, Entertaining, published in 1982, Martha Stewart has remained a household name.  Never far from pop culture’s pulse, she graced the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2023 and, last year, was the subject of Netflix’s watercooler documentary Martha. Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini says, “Vivid Sydney is unrivalled in its ability to offer exclusive, unmissable, and one-of-a-kind events to visitors. It’s incredibly exciting to welcome one of the most revered and fascinating minds to Sydney. We could not think of a better figure that encapsulates this year’s theme of Dream more than Martha Stewart.” Martha Stewart is the latest in Vivid Sydney’s Global Storyteller series, designed to bring together the world’s brightest minds and creative leaders to provide new forms of creative exchange and interactive engagement. Previous speakers include, pop culture sensations Jennifer Coolidge and Mike White, comedic visionary Amy Poehler, local superstar Troye Sivan, and Hollywood trailblazers Baz Luhrmann and Spike Lee. Vivid Sydney will be held from Friday 23 May to Saturday 14 June. Tickets to In Conversation with Martha Stewart are on sale Friday, 4 April at 9.00am AEDT at vividsydney.com. SOURCE Destination NSW

LOS ANGELES (AP) — In a heartbreaking loss to the entertainment world, Val Kilmer, the intense and versatile actor known for iconic roles in films such as “Top Gun,” “Batman Forever,” and “The Doors,” has passed away at the age of 65. Kilmer died on Tuesday night in Los Angeles, surrounded by his family and friends, as confirmed by his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, in an email to The Associated Press.

Kilmer’s death was attributed to pneumonia, following a long and courageous battle with throat cancer that he had been diagnosed with in 2014, a struggle that led to two tracheotomies.

Reflecting on his tumultuous yet inspiring journey, Kilmer shared in the documentary “Val” (2021), “I have behaved poorly. I have behaved bravely. I have behaved bizarrely to some. I deny none of this and have no regrets because I have lost and found parts of myself that I never knew existed. And I am blessed.” His words are a testament to his remarkable resilience, artistry, and unique perspective on life.

Val Kilmer

Kilmer was a prodigy in the performing arts, becoming the youngest actor ever admitted to the prestigious Juilliard School when he enrolled in 1981. His breakthrough came with the 1984 spy spoof “Top Secret!” and he quickly rose to fame with a series of successful films, including the beloved comedy “Real Genius” in 1985. He showcased his comedic talents in later works, such as “MacGruber” and “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.”

The pinnacle of Kilmer’s career arguably occurred in the early 1990s, where he solidified his status as a leading man. Among his most memorable roles were Doc Holliday in “Tombstone” (1993), Elvis Presley in “True Romance,” and the cunning bank-robbing demolition expert in Michael Mann’s “Heat” (1995), alongside cinematic legends Al Pacino and Robert De Niro.

Despite the acclaim, Kilmer’s career was not without its challenges. A 1996 Entertainment Weekly cover story famously dubbed him “The Man Hollywood Loves to Hate,” citing conflicts with directors and a reputation for being difficult on set. Notable figures, including directors John Frankenheimer and Joel Schumacher, described his work as challenging; however, many others, like director D. J. Caruso, defended Kilmer’s commitment to depth and character immersion.

After delivering memorable performances in adult dramas, Kilmer took a slight detour, engaging in smaller films, such as David Mamet’s “Spartan,” and portraying the troubled 1970s adult film star John Holmes in “Wonderland” (2003). He also embraced the stage with a one-man show, “Citizen Twain,” where he explored the complex life of Mark Twain.

Hailing from the Chatsworth neighborhood of Los Angeles, Kilmer’s early life was marred by tragedy with the loss of his younger brother, Wesley, to a seizure — a poignant event that would forever resonate with him. Throughout his life, Kilmer sought inspiration from his brother, often reflecting on the artistic potential he believed Wesley would have achieved.

As a multi-talented artist, Kilmer not only acted but also wrote poetry, with two published collections, including “My Edens After Burns.” In 2012, he received a Grammy nomination for his spoken word album, “The Mark of Zorro.” He continued to explore various creative outlets and was known for his dedication to visual art and his Christian Science faith.

His personal life saw relationships with notable personalities, including singer Cher, and he was previously married to actor Joanne Whalley, with whom he shares two children, Mercedes and Jack.

In a final testament to his remarkable life and career, Kilmer asserted, “I have no regrets. I’ve witnessed and experienced miracles.” Val Kilmer leaves behind a rich legacy, characterized by his complex characters and deep artistic contributions that will forever resonate with audiences. The film industry has lost a true icon, and his presence will be deeply missed.

Related links:

https://apnews.com/article/val-kilmer-actor-dead-pneumonia-7e8f27b1ec80f2940f7a7776f5f92804

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Excitement is building for pickleball fans and sports enthusiasts alike as the highly anticipated documentary Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story is set to premiere on April 11, 2025, on truTV. This film captures the thrilling evolution of pickleball from a casual pastime to a burgeoning professional sport, offering an inside look at a fierce power struggle between two billionaire moguls determined to shape its future.

Narrated by Mike “Sleeves” Sliwa from The Senior Pickleball Report, Dreambreaker features appearances by top pickleball pros and sports icons, including John McEnroe and media personality Billy Bush. Crafted by writer Craig Coyne and directed by Ashley Underwood, the documentary explores the intertwining of sports, aspirations, and rivalries within the pickleball community.

Constantly Evolving Pickleball Story

With its rich narrative and compelling characters, Dreambreaker goes beyond the court to reveal the passion and politics that define the sport. Set your calendars for April 11 and prepare for a captivating journey that promises to enhance your appreciation of pickleball and its growing cultural significance. Don’t miss the chance to witness the drama and dreams that characterize this exhilarating game!

Related links:

https://deadline.com/video/dreambreaker-a-pickleball-story-ashley-underwood-documentary-clip-premiere

Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story Premieres April 11 on truTV

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

https://stmdailynews.com/