Latest news with #Secretly
Axios
10-06-2025
- Business
- Axios
Durham's influential music label Merge Records sells 50% stake in company
Merge Records, a Durham music label that has become influential in the independent music scene over the past 35 years, has sold a 50% stake in the company — a move that the label hopes will provide more distribution resources for its artists. Why it matters: Founded by Mac McCaughan and Laura Ballance as a way to release the music of their own band, Superchunk, Merge has become a powerhouse in the industry, putting out records by bands like Arcade Fire, Spoon, Neutral Milk Hotel and the Magnetic Fields. It's also an important incubator of the Triangle's own music scene, bringing its artists through the area's venues and giving local bands like Hiss Golden Messenger, Rosali and H.C. McEntire a launchpad to new audiences. Driving the news: On Tuesday, Merge announced it had sold a 50% stake in the company to Indiana-based Secretly Group, which owns several other record labels, like Dead Oceans, Jagjaguwar and Secretly Canadian. Zoom in: Merge will continue to operate as a standalone label in Durham as part of the deal, with McCaughan continuing to serve as label president and head of A&R (Artist & Repertoire). Ballance, however, will be leaving the music business following the deal. In a statement, Secretly co-founder Phil Waldorf said his group reached out to Merge about a new partnership when it first heard Ballance was looking to leave the business. What they're saying: "It was never my goal to start a record label when I was 21 and run it for the rest of my life," Ballance said in a statement, noting she has other creative endeavors she would like to pursue. "Merge Records started as a literal bedroom label, in my bedroom, and lived there for a few years before we were able to give it some space of its own," she added. "It has always been a labor of love. I am going to miss it and all the people and bands tremendously." Between the lines: The deal gives Merge access to Secretly's worldwide distribution networks as well as access to more resources for operations like accounting, artist royalties, business affairs, licensing, IT and HR. Representatives for Merge were not immediately available for an interview, but last year McCaughan told Axios running a music label has become even more complex in the era of streaming. "What's still great about having a record label is the artists that we get to work with and hearing someone's new album when it's finished," McCaughan said last year. "But, you know, the business of trying to get those bands heard by the most people and trying to sell records enough so that those artists can make a living or even just break even on tour has become really frustrating," he added.
Indian Express
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Popular Korean actor caught cheating, forced to quit shows after private photos explode online
Popular South Korean musical theatre actor Park Jun Hwi has been caught cheating on his fiancée after a private photo of him went viral online. On June 5, Park was spotted half-naked, head down, sitting on a bed next to co-star Woo Jin Yung, throwing the theatre world into chaos. According to SPOTV, the picture was first uploaded to Park's own Instagram and stayed up for a good 10 minutes before getting deleted, but by then, screenshots had already made their way around. Park was scheduled to headline a major project under Showplay. Also read: BTS loses global dominance to rising K-pop stars who just beat Kendrick Lamar and Billie Eilish in album sales Park was supposed to get married soon. A lot of people online guessed his fiancée might've been the one who found the photo and leaked it. Some even said it looked like a real-time confrontation. Right after the mess blew up, more stuff started leaking —a marriage contract details with a woman named 'A', private chat screenshots between Park and his co-star from Bare: The Musical. In those messages, the two were together when Park got a call from his fiancée. Woo asked if she could shower, and the texts went something like this: Woo: 'Is it fine if I shower?' Park: 'Wouldn't it be fine if you shut the door?' Woo: 'I'm just being cautious. It'll be fine, right?' Park: 'Yeah shut the door. I'll raise the volume.' 'From the photos, it looks like the fiancée caught them red-handed, took the photos, and posted them,' one person commented. 'Wow, the first photo totally looks like it's from a cheating scene,' another added. 'At least the ex-girlfriend found out before she got married,' a third said. 'This is embarrassing.' Also read: BTS' RM, V, Jimin and Jungkook to greet fans at designated locations post-discharge; BIGHIT says, 'Refrain from visiting' The backlash was immediate. The production company behind their current shows, Showplay, shortly confirmed both actors were stepping down. Park Jun Hwi was removed from Bare: The Musical and Nijinsky. Woo Jin Young was asked to quit Bare. The company released a statement saying the actors were leaving due to personal reasons. 'Actors Park Jun Hwi, who played Peter, and Woo Jin Young, who played Tanya, have withdrawn from the performances due to personal reasons. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused to the audience due to the actors' withdrawal and the resulting casting changes. Those who wish to cancel or receive a refund due to the casting changes can do so without any fees through the ticketing agency.' Meanwhile, new actors, Kang Byung-hoon and Park Do Yeon, have already been announced as their replacements. Jun Hwi made his debut in 2016 with Secretly, Greatly. In no time, he climbed the ladder and went on to appear in projects like The Goddess Is Watching and Sonata of a Flame. Right after the scandal caught fire online, Park wiped his Instagram clean. As of now, there's been radio silence; neither he nor his co-star has said a word, quietly stepping down without so much as a statement.
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
3 Birth Months Everyone Secretly Admires
3 Birth Months Everyone Secretly Admires originally appeared on Parade. Some people command the energy, attention, and authority of every space they enter, with or without trying. Whether they stand out for their quiet confidence, mysterious allure, fiery theatrics, or are just easy on the eyes, their alluring traits make them easy to admire. Read on to discover which three birth months are secretly admired by many, according to experts. MORE: March-born people have mysterious allure, captivating gazes, and soulful admiration. With a comforting presence built to intuitively make others feel safe, seen, and understood, their sympathetic personality makes them easy to adore. Their intuition and sensitivity are appreciated by many in a cold, linear, objective world. With creative vision and idealistic values in relationships, those in their company feel valued. With sincerity to themselves, they remain true to their passionate, loving nature, all while maintaining awareness of the emotional needs of others. Their confidence, meeting with compassion, makes them great leaders, admired and trusted by many. READ: Spiritually Gifted? 4 Signs You Have a Saintly, Angelic Aura Those born in August are fiercely authentic and unapologetic in their self-expression. However, their feisty spirit provides warmth, elevation, and personable care for others who wish to gather around their flickering flames. With confidence and radiance that doesn't go unnoticed by anyone, people often secretly admire how they command any room they enter. With regal qualities, theatrical fun, and playful, upbeat smiles, they know how to make anyone feel like a celebrity by their side. OTHER: How to Manifest Your Dreams, Based on Your Zodiac Sign Those born in November are powerful in a subtle, discreet way. While they tend to lean back and observe others upon first impression, more than loudly shout their way to recognition, their quiet observations make them magnetic. While you may not always understand what's on their mind, you most certainly feel their presence in your soul. With admirers near and far, they are known for their transformative nature, not afraid to reinvent themselves, try new things, and explore their fullest potential. Without seeking approval, people find their authenticity addicting and inspirational to be around. 3 Birth Months Everyone Secretly Admires first appeared on Parade on Jun 2, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 2, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Kim Soo Hyun's film Secretly, Greatly screened in Hong Kong despite Kim Sae Ron controversy; fans organise special event
Kim Soo Hyun's fanbase is standing strong even as the actor faces heavy public scrutiny over his controversial connection to the late Kim Sae Ron. Despite a global boycott and brands cutting ties, fans in Hong Kong gathered in a heartfelt show of support by organising a special screening of his 2013 film Secretly, Greatly, proving their loyalty hasn't faded. Kim Soo Hyun fans organise special screening of 'Secretly, Greatly' in Hong Kong Over 100 fans came together in Hong Kong for a special screening of Secretly, Greatly, one of Kim Soo Hyun's most iconic films. The event was organised by local fan group K Stars Hong Kong and served as both a celebration of his career and a message of support. The 2013 action-comedy, which earned him two Baeksang Awards, had everyone laughing and reminiscing about the actor's earlier work. The vibe was lighthearted, with many saying it felt good to see his smile again, even if only on screen. "Secretly Greatly" screening by Soohyun hongkong fansclub. 🫶#KimSooHyunCtto HUNDREDS OF FANS MEET UP FOR KIM SOO HYUN'S MOVIE DAY — K STARS HONG KONG HAD A SPECIAL SCREENING TODAY Over 100 Kim Soo Hyun fans in HK met up today for some eye-time watching a flick of the Star of Stars, KSH. Secretly Greatly is a fantastic film and you'll laugh a lot.… Fans share emotional messages of support for Kim Soo Hyun The energy online was just as powerful, as fans from other countries lauded the Hong Kong fans' gesture. One fan posted, "I'm so proud to be part of this amazing, beautiful, and strong fandom of #KimSooHyun. Most importantly, I'm so proud of him for standing up so fearlessly and courageously. From all of us being on the floor, shattered and heartbroken on day one… to then slowly crawling… getting up… walking… and now running to the finish line. We will be victorious. The truth is clear as day. He will be vindicated, and this will be the greatest revenge against all those who wronged him!" I'm so proud to part of this amazing, beautiful, and strong fandom of #KimSooHyun. Most importantly, I'm so proud of him for standing up so fearlessly and courageously. From all of us being on the floor, shattered and heartbroken on day one… to then slowly crawling.. getting… Another wrote, 'Kim Soo Hyun out and about… on a screen in Hong Kong. His light still shines. Secretly Greatly got almost a 10 on Viki and still holds up.' Supporters made it clear they are not letting go of their favorite star, no matter the headlines. EXCLUSIVE Kim Soo Hyun Out And About —On A Screen In Hong Kong The HallyU star was caught shining on screen today at a private screening of Secretly Greatly is a 2013 movie which won 2 Baeksangs for KSH at its 50th edition in 2014. It achieved an almost… The dating controversy with Kim Sae Ron continues to stir debate Kim Soo Hyun has been under heavy scrutiny ever since rumors surfaced that he had dated Kim Sae Ron when she was still a minor. While he strongly denied any underage involvement, he did acknowledge that they had been in a relationship. Her family has since spoken out, calling for accountability and clarity, which added even more pressure to the already tense atmosphere. In the aftermath, several major brands quickly distanced themselves from Kim Soo Hyun, and his much-anticipated Disney+ project Knock Off has been put on indefinite hold. The actor has stayed completely out of the public eye since the news broke, except for his press meeting in March. Still, fan-led events like the Hong Kong screening and support trucks by Chinese fans in Korea show that many are standing by him, believing that the full story has yet to be told. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
