A samurai character allegedly destroys the interior of a Shinto shrine, according to a Japanese lawmaker who criticized the most recent video game in the popular “Assassin’s Creed” series on Wednesday.
The French company “Shadows” will be available on Thursday and features a story about feudal 16th-century Japan that is inspired by authentic samurai films and historical events.
However, a character is seen in a YouTube gameplay video destroying an altar and a traditional drum while bowing at priests.
Hiroyuki Kada, a member of the liberal-governing Liberal Democratic Party, stated in parliament that “it’s important to treat culture with respect.”
“I’m concerned that game attacks and destructive deeds may cause imitation nuisance behavior in the real world,” Kada said.
Additionally, read “Assassin’s Creed: Five Things to Know About It.”
The lawmaker also criticized the French game developer for using a shrine in his hometown of Hyogo without getting permission from the shrine itself.
Yasuke, one of the two playable protagonists, has already sparked a heated debate in “Shadows” both online and offline because of the casting of a black samurai as one of the two characters.
Japan-flag-waving-in-the-wind-against-blue-sky
More than 100 000 people signed a Japanese petition challenging the samurai character’s depiction.
Game developers criticized a “lack of historical accuracy and cultural respect” in the petition’s text.
Japanese gamers have expressed fury over the fact that players can obliterate the interiors of revered shrines.
This reaction “should have been foreseen,” Yuichi Goza, an assistant professor at Kyoto’s International Research Center, told AFP last week.
Although I agree with France’s secularist tenets, Goza said it’s important to recognize that insults to religion can cause strong reactions.
In the past, Jean-Luc Melenchon, a radical leftist politician, criticized the 20-year “Assassin’s Creed” saga for how firebrand Maximilien Robespierre was depicted in the film’s setting of the French Revolution.
Other setbacks that occurred before Thursday included leaks of the game a month before its release, in addition to the delays that occurred.
After his heartbreaking split from Love Island alum Zara McDermott, married at first sight expert Paul C. Brunson has some wise counsel for I’m a celeb star Sam Thompson to follow.
Sam Thompson should “take some time,” according to Paul C. Brunson, before resuming their relationship.
Married At First Sight expert Paul C Brunson has offered Sam Thompson some wise and valuable dating advice following his split from Love Island star Zara McDermott encouraging him to “take his time” before stepping back into the dating world. The former Made in Chelsea star split from Zara earlier this year and it’s been reported that she’s already moved on with former One Direction heartthrob Louis Tomlinson.
The romance was confirmed as the 28-year-old was spotted enjoying a cosy date with the musician at a hotel in Aldeburgh in Suffolk. A fellow guest spotted the duo tucking into a romantic meal following a string of past dates.
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Amid their split, Sam discussed recovering from a relationship on his podcast, Staying Relevant, with special guest Paul. During their chat, Sam asked dating expert Paul how to handle “being given the boot” as he noted how fans noticed how he had “sadness behind his eyes”.
Zara McDermott and Sam Thompson split earlier this year.
READ MORE: Sam Thompson dealt major blow by ITV as telly rival bags top job
Everyone who claims to have witnessed the sadness in my breakup keeps saying, “I went through it.” “I’m terrified about where I’m going, Paul,” I said. When the pilot of a plane passes out in the cockpit, I imagine they are asking, “Does anyone know how to fly a plane?”
Paul, who is also Tinder’s Global Relationship Insights expert shared his tips on how to move on after a breakup, telling the Mirror : “Take it one step at a time. Don’t rush into anything, start with low-pressure conversations and get comfortable with the idea of dating again.
It’s easy to hold onto old baggage after a breakup, he continued, “Dating shouldn’t feel like a chore; it should feel like an exciting opportunity to make new connections.” So take a moment to reflect on what is important to you at this point. Remember, the next relationship shouldn’t necessarily be as bad as the first.
If you want to start dating again, Paul continued, saying that if you want to get comfortable with rejection, you should do so as soon as possible.
It’s just a small part of finding the person who is right for you, so don’t take it personally. Brush off any “no” you might encounter and continue your search on Tinder for new connections, he said.
Paul concluded by urging new singles to enjoy themselves and concentrate on making connections. It should be enjoyable to date! He left, “Think of it as a new adventure, stay curious,” he said.
Paul C Brunson, who appears as an expert on Married At First Sight UK, shared some advice for Sam and others going through a breakup(Image: Channel 4)
An unusually optimistic Sam said in another episode of the Staying Relevant podcast that he felt like he had lost all hope in life after splitting from Zara, his long-term girlfriend. When Paul asked Sam what he had been doing to focus on himself following his split, he responded, “Not much to be honest with you.
In an apparent swipe at Zara he went on, “I suppose a lot of people look for validation in other people and they look for the other person instantly to fill that hole. I can’t do that.” He added: “I love home, I am a real home body. I love my cats and being around my family and being in my home, I barely ever go out.”
Zara and Sam split after spending Christmas and New Year apart from one another. The pair had tried to work hard on their romance but in the end, they decided to go their separate ways.
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“Sam and Zara’s relationship has ended. They still care and have a great love for each other despite making an extremely difficult decision, according to a source at the time.
Sam has been open about the support of his family, including next door neighbours and fellow Made In Chelsea castmates Louise Thompson and Ryan Libbey, sharing with The Mirror recently: “One of my biggest comforts, if I’m ever going through a hard time, is my neighbours next door. I live my life at a very fast pace and there’s a lot going on, so when I go to their place it’s just such a family unit and it’s a beautiful place to be.
One star sign will address issues with their relationship on March 19th, according to today’s horoscope, while the other will take some time off.
Find out what’s written in the stars with our astrologer Russell Grant(Image: Daily Record/GettyImages)
One star sign tries to be more open-minded while the other makes an effort to stay focused on Wednesday.
There are 12 zodiac signs – Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces – and the horoscopes for each can give you the lowdown on what your future holds, be it in work, your love life, your friends and family or more.
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These daily forecasts have been compiled by astrologer Russell Grant, who has been reading star signs for over 50 years. From Aries through to Pisces, here’s what today could bring for your horoscope – and what you can do to be prepared.
Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 20)
You are floating around in a cloud of your own creation while basking in the glow of some recent happy moments. Someone will apologize for being awkward recently, and you’ll soon forget any lingering stress because you’re so relaxed and upbeat. Your efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle are paying off.
Taurus (Apr 21 – May 21)
You and your partner are at odds with some deceptive rumors. Issues in your relationship must be resolved right away. There are ways to enhance your relationship as long as you both maintain your feelings of love and respect for one another.
Gemini (May 22 – June 21)
Take some time today to relax with friends. Enjoy yourself while avoiding responsibility for a while. Even though you can never leave your job or career, you sometimes have to take a step back and remind yourself that you also have a personal life.
Cancer (June 22 – July 23)
If you want to succeed in your current plans, a strong work ethic is required. It’s not the right time to dwell on past errors. A long-term goal must be in your mind if you want to advance. seek the right mentors’ advice.
Leo (July 24 – Aug 23)
Your thoughts are filled with family and home issues. Both at home and at work, you’ll experience a palpable sense of harmony. Even the most senior coworkers appear to be at ease and helpful. Better communication between staff and management is made this way.
Virgo (Aug 24 – Sept 23)
If someone suggests a different course of action for a project, be more open-minded. Take some time to consider their ideas at least. Finding new ways to accomplish tasks might be advantageous.
Libra (Sept 24 – Oct 23)
The state of the finances is encouraging. You might even have to consider how to use an unexpected windfall. You have the option of paying off some of your debts or giving yourself something you’ve been wanting for ages. Go for it if a friend’s advice on a practical subject resonates with you.
Scorpio (Oct 24 – Nov 22)
This indicates that you are not in the mood to be idle when boredom strikes. You require physical and mental stimulation. You can also help others if you begin a new project today. No one can accuse you of wasting your time as you develop methods to simplify routines.
Sagittarius (Nov 23 – Dec 21)
By lying to you or breaking a promise, a friend or coworker will let you down. It’s crucial to stand up for what you believe to be true when you discover that they’ve been deceiving you. You should not allow anyone to ignore your feelings, and you deserve to be treated with respect.
Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 20)
Negative thoughts can cause unfavorable responses, which will make you miserable. Worry causes insomnia and other health issues. Your life has a lot of potential for fulfillment. Why would you waste time worrying about the future?
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Aquarius (Jan 21 – Feb 19)
Better to chase after risky opportunities by knowing your goals and keeping these realistic. Listening to an older colleague’s advice and suggestions will help you understand what you should be striving for, and this will not at all alter your own beliefs or thoughts.
Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20)
A potential change in leadership in a group might be overheard in conversation. The organization’s leaders’ decisions will be determined by their choices and values. Some of your long-term goals for the future will offend your partner vehemently. You won’t be surprised by their response.
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After seeing Zara McDermott enjoying a date with Louis Tomlinson in a posh hotel close to Ipswich, Sam Thompson made fun of her in a podcast called Staying Relevant.
Sam Thompson is said to be finding it ‘tough’ following his split with Zara McDermott(Image: Getty Images)
Friends of Zara McDermott have taken aim at her ex Sam Thompson – branding the TV personality “a loose cannon” – following their split.
Sam, 32, had mocked his former partner when he appeared on a podcast this week, suggesting Zara was “look for the other person instantly to fill that hole” in his absence. It is thought it was a dig at Zara’s date with Louis Tomlinson, as new pictures emerged of their cosy dinner at a luxury hotel.
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According to some, Zara’s friends were upset over his comments on dating expert Paul C. Brunson’s Staying Relevant show. One person called Sam, who spent eight years with Made in Chelsea, “quite pathetic.” They continued, “He’s a loose cannon, as we saw with his remarks shortly after Zara’s relationship was exposed. Really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really. It seems like he must be the subject of it all the time.
Why would he act in this way? She made a lot of effort to keep her relationship with Sam going for five years, but ultimately she was just unable to.
READ MORE: Inside Louis Tomlinson’s life with ‘incredible’ son as Zara McDermott welcomed in
Zara McDermott poses for photographers upon arrival at the Brit Awards this month(Image: Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP)
Sam and Zara, also of Made in Chelsea fame, split up shortly before Christmas after five years together. Zara, 28, has been snapped with Louis recently and a source said the pair are getting close and “share the same values”.
They were spotted having a posh fish and chips dinner washed down with cocktails at The Suffolk, a posh hotel near Ipswich. An insider also added that the pair “looked every bit the happy couple” as they enjoyed dinner together at the luxury venue, where hotel rooms can go for in excess of £300 a night.
Do you think Zara and Louis are a good match? Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.
READ MORE: Sam Thompson finding it ‘tough’ ex Zara McDermott has ‘moved on so quickly’
The London-based TV personality made an appearance on a podcast this week.
However, shortly after the photos’ release, Sam from west London appeared to be making a cryptic dig at Zara in the podcast. He said to the host, “I suppose many people look for validation in other people and look for the other person right away. That’s impossible for me to do.
And reflecting on this, Zara’s friend added: “Six months ago he was crying in the street with photographers watching because he was upset at Zara. You have to wonder what he is going to say next. Why can’t he just let her move on? Will she ever escape his clutches? Who knows.” They spoke to Mail Online, which also reports how Louis’s friends will be thrilled to see him find happiness.
Katie Price is now focused on rebuilding her fortune, which was estimated to have cost an estimated £100 million. She has come to an end to six years of financial turmoil.
Katie Price is cleared of bankruptcies(Image: Getty Images)
Former glamour model Katie Price celebrated overcoming her second bankruptcy on Tuesday – and has vowed to enjoy a healthy financial future.
The mum of five has endured a tumultuous six years of financial struggles, including two bankruptcies. The second of which happened following a significant tax debt of more than £750,000. However, she revealed she has been discharged from this – and is now ready to enjoy successes in the future. In full, Katie’s statement on Tuesday read: “I’m so happy. I can finally move on and leave these bankruptcies behind me, focusing only on the positive. Thank you to everyone who supported me throughout this process.”
The statement comes after Katie was discharged from her first bankruptcy on February 11, 2025. The TV star, originally from Brighton, East Sussex, is now “free to reset and rebuild,” a friend said on Tuesday.
The celebrity’s net worth once exceeded £100 million, but she has experienced difficult times in recent years due to her debt, which includes unpaid income tax, VAT, and other surcharges.
READ MORE: Katie Price’s ex Kieran Hayler sparks reunion rumours with fiancee after letting slip in post
The reality TV star has endured a tumultuous six years of financial struggles(Image: PA)
Speaking to The Sun, a source close to Katie said: “She’s been through a lot, and this feels like a massive weight has been lifted off her shoulders. It’s been hanging over her like a cloud, but now she’s free to reset and rebuild. If anyone can make her millions back, it’s Katie.”
Despite setbacks, including a court order to pay OnlyFans 40% of her monthly income until 2027, Katie is now optimistic. She also incurred an arrest warrant after skipping a court appearance related to her finances, but she has since made significant progress in observing bankruptcy laws.
Katie’s attorney, Fieldfisher LLP’s Chris Keane, stated that “at first, Katie didn’t fully understand the bankruptcy process or the repercussions of missing meetings with the Trustee. She has been fully compliant and has been discharged from both bankruptcies, but she has worked with expert insolvency lawyers.
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As she sat in line for a hearing to settle her finances, Katie received one of her bankruptcy discharges last month. After first being declared bankrupt in 2019, she was scheduled to answer questions about her finances at a hearing called a public examination.
Although bankruptcy orders typically expire in England and Wales after a year, she was still bound by the terms of her first bankruptcy, which was automatically discharged.
With their son posting about them on social media, Coronation Street fans have been updated on a former cast member who hasn’t appeared on the ITV show for a while.
Years after her exit, Coronation Street fans have received updates on a former cast member.
The son of a former Coronation Street cast member who appeared on the show for decades has shared an update on how she’s doing. They had prompted comments about the actor after sharing memorabilia from their home.
Eileen Derbyshire, 93, is best known for her role as Emily Bishop on the long-running ITV soap opera. She made her debut as the character back in 1961 and then remained on the show for over 50 years before leaving in 2016.
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She later made a brief cameo back in 2019. That marked her latest appearance on Corrie and it saw her character Emily feature in a video message for Ken Barlow (played by William Roache) to mark his 80th birthday at the time.
Just a few days ago, Oliver Holt, her son, updated Eileen on X. The sports journalist suggested he had discovered at his mother’s house during a visit and posted a number of photos that included Corrie-related memorabilia.
Someone responded to the question, “Your mother is okay, but I’m loving these memories.” “She’s doing okay, Matthew,” Oliver replied. It’s a bit of a question you have. She’s now 93, so she has some issues that need to be addressed.
Eileen Derbyshire (centre), pictured with co-stars Ian McKellen (left) and Malcolm Hebden (right), played Emily Bishop on Coronation Street for years(Image: PA/ITV)
Eileen’s former co-star Antony Cotton – who has been on the show since 2003 – also reacted. He wrote: “Hey Oliver. Please give my love to your mum – we miss her very much x.” Eileen’s son replied: “Thanks very much, Antony. I will.”
In response to the post, someone else responded, “A fantastic actress and I’m sure a wonderful mother Ollie.” “Thanks, pal,” Oliver said. Yes, she is a wonderful mother. I’m hoping things will go well with you, mate.
Last week, Oliver had previously posted a number of career-related photos on the platform. A black-and-white image of Eileen posing alongside a number of other actors was included in the cover of the film.
The group featured likes of the late Pat Phoenix, the late Doris Speed and the late Betty Driver. The trio played Elsie Tanner, Annie Walker and Betty Williams respectively.
The actor, pictured with George Waring, left the ITV soap in 2016 but made a brief return in 2019(Image: Granada Television)
Oliver wrote in the caption of the framed photo, which was his first post in the series: “Back at my mum’s place. Found this packed away. Halcyon days of Coronation Street.”
As part of Corrie’s celebrations marking her 30th birthday, Eileen and coworkers were recently seen posing outside the fictional pub. In its wrapping-photo, Oliver stated in that post, “Still in its 30th anniversary of the beginning of the Street.”
Another of his posts showcased a newspaper article, dated 1965, which reported on his parents’ marriage. The article announced that Eileen had married her late husband Thomas Holt, who passed away decades later in 2021.
