The entertainment world mourns the passing of several prominent figures, including French movie icon Brigitte Bardot, Palestinian actor Mohammad Bakri, gospel hit composer Richard Smallwood, 'The Wire' actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., and environmental journalist Tatiana Schlossberg. These individuals left significant legacies in film, music, and public discourse.

• Brigitte Bardot, French Movie Icon Who Renounced Stardom, Dies at 91 — New York Times Movies -
• Mohammad Bakri, 72, Outspoken Palestinian Actor and Director, Dies — New York Times Movies -
• Richard Smallwood, 77, Choral Leader and Composer of Gospel Hits, Dies — New York Times Arts -

• Isiah Whitlock Jr., Scene-Stealing Character Actor in ‘The Wire,’ Dies at 71 — New York Times Arts -
• Tatiana Schlossberg, Kennedy Daughter Who Wrote of Her Cancer, Dies at 35 — New York Times Books -

Recent reports reveal a concerning decline in women directing box office hits in 2025, while Times readers' top movies of 2025 showcase a blend of mainstream and indie favorites. These headlines capture both critical analysis of industry trends and popular cinematic choices.

• Women Directed Fewer Box Office Hits in 2025, Report Finds — New York Times Movies -
• Women Directed Fewer Box Office Hits in 2025, Report Finds — New York Times Arts -
• The Top Movies of 2025, According to Times Readers: ‘Marty Supreme’ and More — New York Times Movies -

The literary scene is abuzz with Lola Lafon's evocative memoir exploring Anne Frank's house, alongside recommendations for twisty new thriller books and great new historical fiction. These features highlight engaging new titles across different genres for avid readers.

• ‘When You Listen to This Song,’ by Lola Lafon, Details Her Night in Anne Frank’s House — New York Times Books -
• Twisty New Thriller Books — New York Times Books -
• Great New Historical Fiction — New York Times Books -

A curated list of 6 splendid games you may have missed in 2025 provides entertainment recommendations, while the 40 best New York Times illustrations of 2025 offer a visual recap of the year's most memorable artwork. These articles celebrate diverse forms of creative expression from the past year.

• 6 Splendid Games You May Have Missed in 2025 — New York Times Arts -
• The 40 Best New York Times Illustrations of 2025 — New York Times Arts -