“Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” has made a significant impact at the North American box office, generating an impressive $63 million in ticket sales during its opening weekend. The film’s success comes despite receiving unfavorable reviews, demonstrating its ability to attract a large audience. This figure sets a record as the biggest opening weekend after Thanksgiving and is the largest for a PG-13 film this year.
In second place, “Zootopia 2” earned $43 million, while “Wicked: For Good” followed in third. The animated film “Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution” and the sequel “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t” rounded out the top five. With the domestic box office surpassing $8 billion as the year approaches its end, the success of “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” marks a notable moment in the film industry.
Trump Hosts Kennedy Center Honors Amid Cultural Celebration
In a cultural celebration, former President Donald Trump hosted the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors, recognizing distinguished figures in the arts. This marked a first for a sitting president, as Trump has made significant changes to the institution since his return to office earlier this year. The honorees include film icon Sylvester Stallone, music legends Gloria Gaynor and the rock band Kiss, as well as Michael Crawford. The event aims to celebrate their contributions to American culture.
The evening is expected to be particularly poignant for the members of Kiss, following the recent death of their original lead guitarist, Ace Frehley. The ceremony showcased the honorees’ profound impact on the performing arts.
Tributes and Cultural Events Mark Significant Losses
In other news, the renowned salsa musician Rafael Ithier, founder of the legendary band El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, has passed away at the age of 99. Ithier was a self-taught pianist and composer, and his contributions to music have left a lasting legacy, influencing many contemporary artists, including Bad Bunny. His death was confirmed by family attorney Víctor Rivera.
Meanwhile, László Krasznahorkai, the 2025 Nobel Prize for Literature laureate, delivered a rare lecture in Stockholm. His presentation touched on themes of angels, human dignity, and rebellion, drawing attention to his distinctive literary style characterized by absurdism. The Nobel Prize ceremonies are set to occur on December 10, commemorating Alfred Nobel’s death anniversary.
In Milan, the Teatro alla Scala has garnered acclaim for its season premiere of Dmitry Shostakovich’s “Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk,” receiving a standing ovation lasting 12 minutes. This performance is notable as it marks the second time since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine that the venue has featured a Russian work. U.S. soprano Sara Jakubiak was particularly praised for her performance in this production.
On a different note, prominent playwright Jeremy O. Harris was arrested in Japan on suspicion of ecstasy smuggling. Harris was detained at Naha Airport with 0.0275 ounces of MDMA in his possession as he traveled from London for a sightseeing trip. Japanese authorities are investigating the situation further, and Harris’ representatives have not yet issued a comment.
Lastly, the magazine Vanity Fair has parted ways with West Coast editor Olivia Nuzzi following controversy over her relationship with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Nuzzi’s contract will expire at the end of the year, as both parties agreed to the separation. Her previous work included a profile of Kennedy, which raised questions due to her undisclosed personal relationship with him.
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, these events reflect the complex interplay of culture, recognition, and controversy that shape the industry today.
