This topic reports on the passing of several prominent figures in entertainment, including actor James Van Der Beek, pianist Tamas Vasary, The Pogues' drummer Andrew Ranken, jazz clarinetist Ken Peplowski, The 5th Dimension's LaMonte McLemore, children's author Hudson Talbott, and **clown/acting teacher Philippe Gaulier. The entertainment world mourns the loss of these beloved artists** across music, acting, and literature.

• In His Second Act, James Van Der Beek Starred Online as a Proud Dad and Family Man — New York Times Arts -
• Tamas Vasary, Pianist of Power and Sensitivity, Dies at 92 — New York Times Arts -
• Andrew Ranken, Whose Drumming Powered the Pogues, Dies at 72 — New York Times Arts -

• James Van Der Beek, ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Actor, Dies at 48 After Cancer Battle — New York Times Arts -
• Ken Peplowski, Who Helped Revive the Jazz Clarinet, Dies at 66 — New York Times Arts -
• LaMonte McLemore, Founding Singer With the 5th Dimension, Dies at 90 — New York Times Arts -
• Hudson Talbott Dies at 76; Wrote and Illustrated Wide-Ranging Children’s Books — New York Times Arts -
• Philippe Gaulier, Clown Who Taught Actors Like Sacha Baron Cohen, Dies at 82 — New York Times Arts -

The literary world sees reviews for several new books like 'The Boundless Deep,' 'Murder Bimbo,' 'Emilio Pucci,' and 'The Blood Countess,' alongside a list of graphic novel recommendations for fans of Raina Telgemeier. Discussions also emerge about novels reflecting current events, as seen with Rebecca Novack's 'Murder Bimbo' and its close tie to the news cycle.

• Graphic Novels for Raina Telgemeier Fans — New York Times Books -
• Book Review: ‘The Boundless Deep,’ by Richard Holmes — New York Times Books -
• The Book Jackets Were Ready. Then Charlie Kirk Was Shot. — New York Times Arts -

• Book Review: ‘Murder Bimbo,’ by Rebecca Novack — New York Times Books -
• Book Review: ‘Emilio Pucci,’ by Terence Ward and Idanna Pucci — New York Times Books -
• Book Review: ‘The Blood Countess,’ by Shelley Puhak — New York Times Books -

Recent developments in film and television include a docuseries on the ABA titled 'Soul Power,' an Oscar-nominated sci-fi film 'Arco' praised for its intelligence, and three films exploring Palestinian history gaining awards attention. The industry also saw Oscar nominees gathering for a luncheon, while late-night television addressed recent political controversies.

• In ‘Soul Power,’ a Fresh Look at the League That Helped Launch Dr. J — New York Times Arts -
• In the Sci-Fi World of ‘Arco’, It’s About ‘Respecting Kids’ Intelligence’ — New York Times Arts -
• Decades of Palestinian History, Told by 3 Films With Awards Hopes — New York Times Arts -

• Who Cares if Matt Damon’s ‘Odyssey’ Helmet Is Historically Accurate? — New York Times Movies -
• Late Night Mines Trump’s Million Mentions in the Epstein Files — New York Times Arts -
• Timothée Chalamet, Teyana Taylor and Jacob Elordi at the Oscar Nominees Luncheon — New York Times Arts -

Pop icon Britney Spears has made significant news by selling the rights to her extensive song catalog. This marks a major financial and career development for the artist, transferring control of her musical legacy.

• Britney Spears Sells Her Song Catalog — New York Times Arts -

Broader cultural discussions include the potential for artists to reshape American cities through innovative urban planning initiatives and the demanding schedule of sports broadcaster Mike Tirico, who swiftly transitioned from the Super Bowl to the Winter Olympics. There's also a lighthearted look at fan debates over historical accuracy in film adaptations.

• Mike Tirico Went From the Super Bowl to the Olympics on Two Cups of Coffee — New York Times Arts -
• Can Artists Help Shape American Cities Again? — New York Times Arts -