Culture, Style & Media News Today — November 12, 2026
‘Hamnet’ Play From Royal Shakespeare Company Sets First U.K. Tour and more — today's news signal.
The world of culture, style, and media is abuzz with news that reflects the ever-changing landscape of entertainment and the arts. The Royal Shakespeare Company is set to take its acclaimed play 'Hamnet' on its first UK tour, bringing the Bard's timeless themes to new audiences across the country. Meanwhile, in the world of film, Scarlett Johansson has been speaking out about the lackluster movie offers she's been receiving from studios, even going so far as to advise executives against pursuing certain projects that she deems irresponsible. This kind of candor from a major star highlights the ongoing conversation about the types of stories that are being told in Hollywood and the need for more thoughtful and nuanced storytelling.
The intersection of art and accountability is also on display in the news that Russell Brand's pubic hair has been removed from a London museum following his rape conviction. The curator's statement that they have no desire to hear his name again underscores the importance of considering the impact of an artist's personal actions on their public legacy. In contrast, the world of gaming is celebrating a major success with the remake of 'The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time' selling a staggering 5.2 million copies in its first four days on the Nintendo Switch 2. This achievement demonstrates the enduring power of beloved franchises to bring people together and create a sense of community and shared excitement. As these stories demonstrate, the culture, style, and media landscape is complex and multifaceted, full of contrasting themes and ideas that reflect the diversity and richness of human experience.
Today's signal:
• ‘Hamnet’ Play From Royal Shakespeare Company Sets First U.K. Tour (variety.com)
• Scarlett Johansson Has Gotten Such Bad Studio Movie Offers That She’s Told Execs: ‘I Don’t Think You Should Make This… It Seems Irresponsible’ (variety.com)
• Russell Brand’s Pubic Hair Removed From London Museum After Rape Conviction, Curator Says ‘I Have No Desire to Hear His Name Again’ (variety.com)
• ‘The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time’ Remake Sells 5.2 Million Copies in First Four Days on Nintendo Switch 2 (variety.com)