Latest news with #Dwayne
Associated Press
15-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Learning app Praktika announces seven new languages as Gen Z flocks to immersive platform
AI Avatars are language students' new 'best friends' and are helping to unlock career growth, mobility and more LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, May 15, 2025 / / -- Praktika – the world's smartest language learning app built around personalised AI avatar tutors – is expanding its global reach with the launch of seven new languages. French, Japanese and Korean are available now, alongside existing courses in English and Spanish. Italian, German, French, Brazilian Portuguese, and European Portuguese will launch mid May. The expansion comes as Praktika surpasses 14 million downloads, doubles its team size, opens a new UK hub and recorded over 20x revenue growth in 2024 – marking the latest step in its mission to deliver language learning that doesn't just feel fun, but fuels careers, mobility and confidence in the real world. Praktika's voice-first AI avatars adapt to each user's pace, skill level and learning style. Students can even choose an accent to learn in – such as British English if they're planning to move to the UK. All courses are overseen by native language learning experts and the more the app is used, the more tailored the lessons become. Through its commitment to making learning fun, and by offering an authentically social experience, Praktika is built for a generation that values personalisation, connection and real results. More than half its user base (60%) is Gen Z and the app has made its mark in both the $98bn language learning market, as well as the $289bn games market, with competitors rushing to copy its avatar approach. What's more, with a growing number of learners using the app to advance their careers (28%), or preparing to move and study abroad (26%), Praktika is fast becoming a tool for professional as well as personal development. Helping learners build confidence and cultural nuance that translates in interviews and meetings in a way no other app on the market has managed. Praktika's power comes from the fact users don't just learn from avatars, they bond with them. Popular tutors like Dwayne, Raika and Xander are now counted as 'best friends', rather than just coaches and conversation partners according to users. As a result, more than two million people come back to the app each month, with in-app time accelerating by 80% over the last year. This in-app dwell time has increased due to emotionally resonant avatars – including three recently launched for the Asian markets – as well as a growing roster of mini-games and personalisation features. The seven new languages follow the launch of Spanish in late 2024 and are part of Praktika's plans to rapidly scale globally. Praktika's modular development approach and use of deep LLMs means it can roll out new languages in weeks – a major differentiator in a market dominated by slow-moving incumbents. It is also able to respond quickly to user feedback from its growing community and through extensive user interviews every week. Backed by Blossom Capital, Creator Ventures, and high-profile angels from the tech, AI and gaming sectors, Praktika has raised $35M to date. Its founding team includes Adam Turaev (CEO), Anton Marin (CTO), and Ilya Chernyakov (CPO), all of whom are pioneers in generative AI, having previously co-founded Cleverbots, a conversational AI platform used by industry giants including Coca-Cola, Kimberly-Clark, and AstraZeneca. 'Language is deeply personal and learning a new language should feel like unlocking a pathway to a new world,' said CEO and co-founder Adam Turaev. 'Our users don't just tell us they're improving, they show us. We hear stories every day of people landing jobs, relocating to new countries, or simply finding the confidence to speak in a new language for the first time. With these new languages, we're determined to help more people expand their lives and opportunities around the world.' Amelia Bennett email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Metro
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Man who paid $12,000 to be Gene Simmons's roadie says he's ‘going to die happy'
One KISS fan has no regrets after paying Gene Simmons for the chance to act as his roadie for the day – at the cost of a cool $12,495 (£9,678). The I Was Made For Lovin' You hitmaker came under fire recently for the bizarre scheme, but it seems some are happily paying the price for the rock-and-roll experience. 'This is what I choose to spend my money on,' said Dwayne Rosado, a52-year-old retired corrections sergeant from Middletown, New York, who purchased the roadie experience with his 13-year-old son. Dwayne decided to pay for the experience after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. 'You only live once, and I want to experience life,' he told The New York Times. 'I'm not going to die with a lot of money. I'm going to die happy.' The package is an option for fans as a part of Simmons' American solo tour, the 'Ultimate Gene Simmons Experience.' It was advertsied as allowing a fan of the 70s rock icon to become a member of his road crew for the day. Posted on his website, the $12k package gave Dwayne and Zach extensive behind-the-scenes access to the KISS legend. But they also worked. Jobs included helping with 'arrive & load-in to the venue', 'go over the Band's Show day schedule' in the morning, and 'help the band set up.' It wasn't all work, though, as Dwayne and Zach got to have a meal with Gene, 75, and were brought out on stage and introduced to the crowd. They also sat in on soundcheck, 'hung out backstage' and of course had a unique view of the show, usually reserved for those in the business. They also walked away with an exclusive crew member shirt and hat, a signed set list, and a VIP laminate, as well as a signed bass guitar used in KISS 's rehearsals. In the end, when Dwayne was asked if it was worth $12k he replied: 'Absolutely.' 'You forgot the $500,' Simmons joked. '$12,495 to be exact,' said Dwayne. 'Nothing can beat tonight. It's cemented in Kisstory now, because it's going to be on YouTube and everything else. So I'll get to look back and see that moment forever.' There's only one ultimate experience available for sale per show date, with the purchaser allowed to bring a guest with them, as well as extra items for Gene to sign. As much as Dwayne seemingly loved the experience, the Shout It Out Loud singer originally left fans unimpressed by the offer, which was branded 'lame', 'sleazy' and a 'huge rip-off'. 'The stupidest thing I've ever heard,' fumed Mike Brown on social media platform X, while Jeff Franklin branded it 'a huge rip-off'. 'Lame. Seems like a sleazy way to generate income by Simmons,' observed Ed Tobin, as several fans made the same point about the pay. 'Wouldn't even give him the time of day if you paid me,' wrote Jett, while @mnmikebierman added: 'Gene is so lame. I'd need the $12k to do it.' For @63smithy that wasn't enough though, as they shared: 'I wouldn't do it if he paid me the 12,495.' 'Ego out of control,' chimed in Paul as another fan claimed that Simmons' act 'got stale in the 80s [and is] now completely irrelevant'. Some fans weren't averse to the possibility though, as @CeguyShi responded: 'Absolutely. The signed used rehearsal-Bass alone is worth the 12k.' @OccamRubberSpat suggested: 'Depending on the bass and the memorabilia, you might turn a profit… KISS fans are a little rabid, for decades now…' It's also worth noting that the ticket for the gig isn't included in the package, meaning you'd need to stump up for that separately. And if $12,495 (£9,678) is a stretch too far, Simmons is also offering the 'bass experience' for $6,500 (£5,034) on his website, which includes a signed and personalised non-stage played guitar and a meet and greet with the rocker after the show. The listing also notes that 'you will find that Gene Simmons is very down-to-earth, funny, and knowledgeable on almost any subject'. Gene kicked off his tour on April 3 at House of Blues Anaheim, California, before heading on the road to states including Florida, New Jersey, Texas, Indiana, Illinois, Georgia and Kentucky before May 24. KISS retired from performing live shows together in 2023, after first forming 50 years prior in New York City. The original line-up comprising Simmons (vocals, bass), Paul Stanley (vocals, rhythm guitar), Ace Frehley (lead guitar, vocals) and Peter Criss (drums, vocals) was inducted into the the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014. KISS sold more than 100 million records worldwide, with the I Was Made for Lovin' You rockers' final composition of Simmons, Stanley, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer hanging up their studded platform boots at New York's Madison Square Garden in December 2023, at the end of their postponed farewell tour. A version of this article was first published on March 9, 2025. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you.
Metro
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Man who paid $12,000 to be Gene Simmons's roadie says he's 'going to die happy'
One KISS fan has no regrets after paying Gene Simmons for the chance to act as his roadie for the day – at the cost of a cool $12,495 (£9,678). The I Was Made For Lovin' You hitmaker came under fire recently for the bizarre scheme, but it seems some are happily paying the price for the rock-and-roll experience. 'This is what I choose to spend my money on,' said Dwayne Rosado, a52-year-old retired corrections sergeant from Middletown, New York, who purchased the roadie experience with his 13-year-old son. Dwayne decided to pay for the experience after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. 'You only live once, and I want to experience life,' he told The New York Times. 'I'm not going to die with a lot of money. I'm going to die happy.' The package is an option for fans as a part of Simmons' American solo tour, the 'Ultimate Gene Simmons Experience.' It was advertsied as allowing a fan of the 70s rock icon to become a member of his road crew for the day. Posted on his website, the $12k package gave Dwayne and Zach extensive behind-the-scenes access to the KISS legend. But they also worked. Jobs included helping with 'arrive & load-in to the venue', 'go over the Band's Show day schedule' in the morning, and 'help the band set up.' It wasn't all work, though, as Dwayne and Zach got to have a meal with Gene, 75, and were brought out on stage and introduced to the crowd. They also sat in on soundcheck, 'hung out backstage' and of course had a unique view of the show, usually reserved for those in the business. They also walked away with an exclusive crew member shirt and hat, a signed set list, and a VIP laminate, as well as a signed bass guitar used in KISS's rehearsals. In the end, when Dwayne was asked if it was worth $12k he replied: 'Absolutely.' 'You forgot the $500,' Simmons joked. '$12,495 to be exact,' said Dwayne. 'Nothing can beat tonight. It's cemented in Kisstory now, because it's going to be on YouTube and everything else. So I'll get to look back and see that moment forever.' There's only one ultimate experience available for sale per show date, with the purchaser allowed to bring a guest with them, as well as extra items for Gene to sign. As much as Dwayne seemingly loved the experience, the Shout It Out Loud singer originally left fans unimpressed by the offer, which was branded 'lame', 'sleazy' and a 'huge rip-off'. 'The stupidest thing I've ever heard,' fumed Mike Brown on social media platform X, while Jeff Franklin branded it 'a huge rip-off'. 'Lame. Seems like a sleazy way to generate income by Simmons,' observed Ed Tobin, as several fans made the same point about the pay. 'Wouldn't even give him the time of day if you paid me,' wrote Jett, while @mnmikebierman added: 'Gene is so lame. I'd need the $12k to do it.' For @63smithy that wasn't enough though, as they shared: 'I wouldn't do it if he paid me the 12,495.' 'Ego out of control,' chimed in Paul as another fan claimed that Simmons' act 'got stale in the 80s [and is] now completely irrelevant'. Some fans weren't averse to the possibility though, as @CeguyShi responded: 'Absolutely. The signed used rehearsal-Bass alone is worth the 12k.' @OccamRubberSpat suggested: 'Depending on the bass and the memorabilia, you might turn a profit… KISS fans are a little rabid, for decades now…' It's also worth noting that the ticket for the gig isn't included in the package, meaning you'd need to stump up for that separately. And if $12,495 (£9,678) is a stretch too far, Simmons is also offering the 'bass experience' for $6,500 (£5,034) on his website, which includes a signed and personalised non-stage played guitar and a meet and greet with the rocker after the show. The listing also notes that 'you will find that Gene Simmons is very down-to-earth, funny, and knowledgeable on almost any subject'. Gene kicked off his tour on April 3 at House of Blues Anaheim, California, before heading on the road to states including Florida, New Jersey, Texas, Indiana, Illinois, Georgia and Kentucky before May 24. More Trending KISS retired from performing live shows together in 2023, after first forming 50 years prior in New York City. The original line-up comprising Simmons (vocals, bass), Paul Stanley (vocals, rhythm guitar), Ace Frehley (lead guitar, vocals) and Peter Criss (drums, vocals) was inducted into the the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014. KISS sold more than 100 million records worldwide, with the I Was Made for Lovin' You rockers' final composition of Simmons, Stanley, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer hanging up their studded platform boots at New York's Madison Square Garden in December 2023, at the end of their postponed farewell tour. A version of this article was first published on March 9, 2025. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Killers of the Flower Moon star Samuel French dies aged 45 MORE: Rapper Tory Lanez rushed to hospital after being stabbed 14 times in prison attack MORE: 'Skunk Anansie wouldn't exist without Grassroot venues'
News.com.au
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- News.com.au
Wild behind-the-scene's detail from Dwayne Johnson's Saturday Night Live appearance
Where Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson goes, the 'chicken guy' follows. Saturday Night Live star Mikey Day exclusively told The Post that the wrestler-turned-movie-star, 52, had plenty of protein on hand when he hosted the sketch comedy series. 'This is more amusing than surprising. I figured Dwayne Johnson would have an intense diet and stuff to maintain his ridiculously shredded physique,' Day, 45, said while promoting his new campaign with Dollar Car Rental. 'But when he hosted, I saw Dwayne's 'chicken guy,'' the comedian recalled. 'Which, distilled down to a basic description, is a dude who follows Dwayne around with this industrial case of chicken and occasionally approaches Dwayne and says. 'Hey Dwayne, sorry to interrupt but it's time to eat chicken.'' Johnson, a member of the show's Five-Timers Club, hosted the show in 2000, 2002, 2009, 2015 and 2017. The Black Adam star has spoken before about his high-protein diet. He told Men's Health in 2022 that he eats the same six meals a day, starting with his breakfast, which includes 'eggs, a meat like bison, a complex carb like oatmeal, and fruit, usually either papaya or blueberries.' At 10am, he has his second meal, which consists of complex carbs like rice, chicken breasts and greens. For dinner, Johnson indulges on proteins such as chicken, fish, chicken or steak, with a complex carbs dish like sweet potatoes and greens. In total, his diet is mostly 40% to 45% protein — and that includes daily protein shakes. Day joined the SNL as a writer in 2013 and transitioned to a cast member in 2016, meaning he crossed paths with Johnson the last two times he hosted the show. Day told The Post that of all his cast members, he'd most like to do a Dollar Car Rental commercial with Kenan Thompson. 'I know the shoot would be fun as he just makes me laugh,' Day said of Thompson, 46. 'Even if he's just standing there saying nothing, I'm laughing.' The car rental agency accepted one of his pitches when they shot the commercial at TWA Hotel at New York's JFK Airport. 'In the spot where I play the intense dog dad talking to my dog, I pitched the line, 'I tell everyone at work you're my human son.' Which is pretty weird for a rental car commercial. But they were into it which made me happy,' he shared. 'They weren't scared of getting weird, so they're my kind of people.' Following the news that the UK is launching its own SNL series, Day told The Post he expects great things from the all-British cast. 'British comedy/comedians have been so influential to comedy as a whole, so I think it's great. I'm curious what the show will be like,' he said. 'Sometimes, British humor's a little more subtle, so maybe it will be a little less loud than its American counterpart?' Day also said that one of the wildest, unscripted moments he's witnessed on the show was 'Heidi [Gardner] breaking character when she turned around and saw me as Butt-Head,' referring to the 2024 'Beavis and Butt-Head' sketch starring Ryan Gosling. Some of Day's other most memorable sketches include 'Spelling Bee' with Will Forte, 'Haunted Elevator' with Tom Hanks, 'Washington's Dream' with Nate Bargatze and 'Lord Gaga' with Colin Jost on 'Weekend Update.' After more than 10 years of working on the show, Day told The Post he's more focused on the present rather than the future of his career. 'The show has trained me to not think beyond the week in front of me,' he said. 'So, right now all I'm thinking about are ideas for [next episode's guest] Quinta Brunson.'
Irish Daily Mirror
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson unrecognisable in new role
The long-awaited trailer for The Smashing Machine, starring Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, has finally been released - and the transformation the wrestler-turned-actor has undergone for the movie is jaw-dropping. His Jungle Cruise co-star Emily Blunt appears alongside him in this gripping drama that tells the tale of iconic MMA fighter Mark Kerr, as he navigates the highs and lows of addiction, love, friendship, and his career during its 2000 pinnacle. The film delves into the life of the UFC champion during the raw and unfiltered early days of MMA, highlighting his relationship with a character played by Mary Poppins lead Emily Blunt. Fans get a snippet of Dwayne's portrayal when his character declares in the trailer: "Winning is the best feeling there is. "It's 40,000 people in there cheering you on. There's no other high like it in the world." These lines give insight to some of the central narratives of the flick, including a gritty look into substance misuse, with a focus on prescription drug dependency. Audiences will see a different side of The Rock, complete with a full head of hair, under the directorial vision of Benny Safdie. Named 'The Smashing Machine' due to his formidable style in the ring, Mark Kerr reached celebrity status in combat sports in the nineties and the turn of the millennium, reports the Mirror US. A former collegiate wrestler who made a name for himself in MMA, Mark Kerr is a two-time Heavyweight Tournament Champion. His journey has already been chronicled in a 2002 HBO documentary bearing the same title. The film will be released on October 3, with the cast also including Ryan Bader, Oleksandr Usyk, and Bas Rutten. This long-anticipated project began when "The Rock" Dwayne Johnson's Seven Bucks company snapped up the rights to the MMA fighter's tale back in 2019. Dwayne, having launched his career in the WWF (now WWE) in the late '90s, could be looking at an awards season flurry if the reaction to the trailer is anything to go by. The Hollywood heavyweight, often spotted on lists of the 'World's Richest Actors', might just add another feather to his cap with this role. The teaser has already sent waves of excitement through the audience. One viewer said: "I'm actually really intrigued by this. Seeing Dwayne doing something more serious actually looked awesome. Excited for this." Echoing this sentiment, another commented: "It's a unique compliment for the Rock when no one recognises him in a film. I'm glad he challenged himself for this role. He is phenomenal in this trailer and I can't wait to see it." One user joked: "This is the most vulnerable The Rock has been since Tooth Fairy," while another added: "25 years of starring in films and The Rock finally makes his acting debut! I'm just glad that Dwayne Johnson finally looks like not Dwayne Johnson in a movie ffs. Makeup and prosthetics aside, will the acting actually be good? I guess we'll only know after watching the movie." Another viewer said: "THIS is what Dwayne needed. To branch out from being a bro's bro in movies. Perfect way to cast him too, this is one hell of a story and I really feel he is bringing in his A-Game to acting for once."
