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Why Is Sami Zayn Banned from Saudi Arabia? Controversy Explained

Sami Zayn does not participate because of his religion, ethnicity, and beliefs against Saudi Arabia’s regime.

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Sami Zayn is one of the prominent wrestlers in today’s generation. He is presently contracted to WWE, where he competes on the SmackDown brand.

Prior to joining WWE, Sebei competed for Ring of Honor under the ring name El Generico, portraying a Mexican luchador with the catchphrase “Olé!” From his debut in 2002 until 2013, he wrestled while masked. 

He began performing without a mask after signing with WWE, eventually capturing the NXT Championship while in WWE’s developmental brand NXT and becoming a three-time Intercontinental Champion after being promoted to the main roster. 

His fan popularity skyrocketed in 2022 because of his critically lauded work with The Bloodline. Despite being one of the beloved wrestlers in WWE, Zayn has not participated in any of the competitions held in Saudi Arabia.

This has led many to believe that he is banned from the country and ask —  “why is Sami Zayn not allowed in Saudi Arabia?” Here is everything we know about it.

Why is Sami Zayn banned from Saudi Arabia?

Following Vince McMahon’s return to the board of directors as Executive Chairman, WWE was shaken by reports of an impending sale. Initially, companies like NBC, Disney, and Liberty Media surfaced as prospective owners. 

But later, Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund rose to the top of the rumor mill. This sparked some concerns about specific wrestlers quitting WWE if the purchase went through, including Zyan.

Sami Zayn strongly supports the Syrian people and their rights.

Sami Zayn strongly supports the Syrian people and their rights. (Source: Twitter)

Zayn is not exactly banned from the country. However, he does not participate because of his religion, ethnicity, and beliefs against Saudi Arabia’s regime.

Zayn was born in Canada, making his nationality Canadian. However, his parents are Syrian immigrants who left the country in the 1970s and relocated to Canada.

As a result, Zayn is of Syrian ethnicity, and his religion is Muslim. He has always spoken in support of the Muslims and Syrian people who have been affected by the war.

Because of his Syrian ethnicity, Zayn has never wrestled in WWE events in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia’s government has been involved in Syria’s long-running civil conflict. 

Saudi Arabia’s leaders most likely regard him as a problematic individual who does not share their principles and goals. In the case of Saudi Arabia’s purchase of WWE, especially if the state takes the firm private and exercises ultimate control over its activities, the two parties are unlikely to cohabit.

There are chances that, along with Zayn, his friend Kevin Owens would also depart from WWE. The two have been inseparable for most of their careers, which is why many fans feel Owens would follow Zayn out the door if Saudi Arabia took over.

Rumors debunked

WWE chief content officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque allegedly addressed reports of the business being sold to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund at a talent meeting with WWE Raw superstars on January 15, 2023.

Triple H conducted the meeting with veteran producer Kevin Dunn and WWE Executive Vice President of Talent Dan Ventrelle, where they debunked the rumors. 

According to combat sports specialist Ariel Helwani, WWE did not agree to sell to Saudi Arabia or any other organization and was “still evaluating all alternatives.”

During the talent meeting, it was also reiterated that Triple H is “firmly in control of creative, and that talent relations are not changing.”

How old is Sami Zayn? His height, weight, and net worth

Zayn was born on July 12, 1984, in Laval, Canada. At the time of writing, his age is 38.

It is reported that his billed weight is 212lb or 96 kg. Similarly, his billed height is 6 ft 1 inch or 185 cm. 

The net worth of Zayn is reported to be more than $2 million. He earns more than $200,000 per year, excluding Pay-Per-View profits, while he used to make more than $500,000 yearly. 

He joined WWE in 2015, and his salary has fluctuated throughout the years. In 2018, it was reported that his salary was more than $500,000 per year. 

The wrestler also makes money through his merchandise and YouTube page, where he routinely posts videos. He has endorsed products like WWE Shop, WWE 2K games, and others, which fueled his net worth.

Just a young girl passionate about journalism, pop culture, and drama. She writes Hollywood stories for Glamour Buff and GB Issue at present.

Entertainment

How Deadite Alyssa Sutherland from ‘Evil Dead’ Transformed Herself from Model to Actress?

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How Deadite Alyssa Sutherland from 'Evil Dead' Transformed Herself from Model to Actress?

The alluring actress Alyssa Sutherland, who just swept the horror community off her feet as the possessed Natalie in “Evil Dead Rise,” has a career trajectory that defies convention. Her career started in the bright lights of the fashion business, not on bloody, gory movie sets. How did this Australian beauty go from walking the haute couture catwalks to facing evil forces on screen?

A Model Start: 

The narrative of Sutherland starts in Brisbane, Australia. At an early age, Alyssa Sutherland was discovered in a mall and moved fast through the modeling ranks. Her remarkable physical attributes secured her highly sought-after endorsements for labels such as Bulgari and Ralph Lauren, and she was featured on the pages of esteemed publications like Glamour and Australian Style. Success as a model seemed to be her destiny. But something else gnawed at Sutherland like a spark.

The Need to Take Action:

Although modeling provided a stable income and an opulent lifestyle, Sutherland’s true ambition was to become an actress. She relates, “I had wanted to be an actress… I was doing drama in high school.” This desire was not just a passing fancy for her. She had a deep-rooted passion for acting, which she nurtured even during her modeling days. But as a child growing up in Australia, an acting profession seemed like a far-off ideal. Despite the seeming constraints, Sutherland’s passion for telling tales and taking on personalities remained strong. 

The Leap of Faith: 

Sutherland took a risky move because she was determined to follow her passion. Despite a successful modeling career, she put off attending college and started her acting profession. There was no denying her skill and commitment. In 2009, she was cast in her debut on-screen part in the short film “The Verge”. Sutherland kept refining her technique and accumulating a filmography demonstrating her range, but this was only the beginning.

Beyond the Runway: 

Sutherland’s acting career is a testament to her versatility. She has portrayed powerful female characters in historical dramas such as ‘Vikings’ and the Australian miniseries ‘Janet King,’ and showcased her comedic timing in shows like ‘The Astronaut Wives Club.’ However, it was her venture into the horror genre that truly captivated audiences, demonstrating her ability to excel in a variety of roles.

Unleashing the Deadite: 

Sutherland was cast as Natalie in the much-awaited “Evil Dead Rise,” the follow-up to the beloved classic horror film franchise, in 2023. This film was not just another project for her. It was a significant milestone in her career, marking her transition from the basic model to the evil character. It was different from your usual role of the damsel-in-distress. After falling under demonic forces’ control, Natalie becomes a formidable force. Sutherland underwent rigorous physical training and delved deeply into the character’s mind to fully accept the role’s emotional and physical demands. Her status as a rising star in the horror genre was cemented by the positive reviews she received for her performance. 

It’s a significant step to have the guts to abandon a successful career to follow one’s passion, but it can be challenging to make that kind of leap in a field where people tend to box artists into their first big success. Sutherland faced constraints on the kinds of parts the business would consider her for rather than misgivings about her ability to transition from modeling to acting. This is how she phrased it:

“I don’t think anyone doubts the ability of models to become actors. The business is not a whole pigeonhole model because I believe plenty have proven themselves. I believe that you struggle with saying, “But she’s too pretty to be a lawyer,” particularly if you’re a woman. She is too gorgeous to be like this. However, we also have Brad Pitt, a very attractive man with a wide range of acting skills. That has proven to be a challenging obstacle for me to conquer, which is why Evil Dead Rise is such a blessing.”

Evil Dead Rise turned out to be a blessing in many ways. Sutherland could not only swing for the fences, get dirty, and deliver one slick one-liner after another in her role as Ellie, but she also got to go big in a place where there was no fear. 

Takeaways from the Transformation:

Sutherland’s transformation from model to actor provides insightful inspiration for budding artists. It emphasizes the importance of pursuing your goals, regardless of how unusual they may seem. It exemplifies the strength of commitment and tenacity, especially in the face of early uncertainties and obstacles. More significantly, it illustrates how acting can change people and how it may push limits and alter perceptions. 

Alyssa Sutherland’s Future:

With “Evil Dead Rise,” Sutherland’s career is about to soar to even higher levels. She is in high demand as an actress because of her versatility in acting and her ability to play nuanced roles. Whether she’s strutting down the catwalk with style or taking on demons in a fierce manner on screen, Alyssa Sutherland never fails to enthrall viewers and surpass expectations. There’s no telling what terrifyingly fun roles she’ll play in the future, but one thing is certain: nothing.

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Small-Town Stories Are Changing the Landscape of Modern Films, Here’s How

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Small-Town Stories Are Changing the Landscape of Modern Films, Here’s How

In recent years, the film industry has significantly shifted towards stories set in small towns, bringing fresh perspectives and untold narratives to the forefront.

These stories offer a glimpse into the nuanced lives of communities often overlooked in mainstream cinema, challenging audiences to engage with diverse experiences and environments. This movement towards small-town tales is not just a trend but a transformative force in modern filmmaking, reshaping how stories are told and what stories are considered worth telling.

The Rise of the Underdog

One notable example of this shift can be seen in the Possum Trot movie, a film that brings the intricate dynamics of rural life into the limelight. Such movies go beyond mere settings; they delve into the heart and soul of communities, showcasing the strength, resilience, and complexity of people living far from urban sprawl.

This focus on underrepresented locales has broadened the thematic horizons of cinema and democratized storytelling, allowing for more voices and experiences to be heard.

Authentic Representation

Small town stories provide a platform for authentic representation, showcasing the realities of life in these communities. This authenticity resonates with audiences, offering a break from the often-glamorized portrayals of city life in movies. The realness of the characters, their struggles, and their triumphs strike a chord, creating a more inclusive and relatable cinematic experience.

Diverse Storytelling Perspectives

The shift towards small-town narratives has introduced a variety of storytelling perspectives, enriching the film industry with diverse tales that might otherwise remain untold. These stories challenge stereotypes and offer a more nuanced understanding of places and people frequently marginalized or misunderstood in mainstream media.

Innovative Storytelling Techniques

Filmmakers exploring small town stories often employ innovative storytelling techniques to capture the essence of these communities. From unique cinematography that highlights the natural beauty of rural landscapes to narratives that weave together the folklore and traditions of a place, these films push the boundaries of conventional storytelling.

Economic Impact on Small Towns

Interestingly, films set in small towns can have a positive economic impact on the locations where they are shot. They bring attention to lesser-known areas, potentially boosting tourism and local business. This symbiotic relationship between filmmaking and location benefits the art of cinema and the communities that inspire it.

Fostering Community and Connection

Small town stories often center around community, belonging, and connection themes. These universal themes resonate widely, reminding viewers of the importance of human connections and the power of community, regardless of the setting. Films highlighting these aspects can foster a sense of unity and understanding among audiences.

Challenging Mainstream Norms

By bringing small town narratives to the forefront, modern films challenge mainstream norms and expand what is considered worthy of cinematic exploration. This shift not only diversifies the stories seen on screen but also challenges audiences to question and expand their perspectives.

The Future of Small Town Stories in Cinema

As the film industry continues to evolve, the importance of small town stories remains undeniable. These narratives counterbalance the urban-centric tales that dominate cinema, providing a refreshing change of pace and depth. The continued interest in small town stories signifies a broader desire for films that reflect the full spectrum of human experience, promising a future of cinema that is more inclusive, diverse, and representative of our world.

Incorporating small town stories profoundly changes the landscape of modern films. These narratives bring depth, diversity, and authenticity to cinema, challenging conventional storytelling and offering audiences new perspectives on the world. 

As filmmakers continue to explore the rich tapestry of life in small communities, we can expect to see a broader, more inclusive representation of human experiences on screen. The shift towards these stories reflects a changing industry and society, which values the stories of all its members, regardless of where they live.

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Three True-Crime Documentaries Coming to Netflix in April 2024

Time to snuggle with a cozy blanket and some popcorns!

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Three True-Crime Documentaries Coming to Netflix in April 2024

Netflix has a wide range of TV shows and movies.

Alongside them, Netflix also hosts a lot of documentaries. It has a wide range of documentaries but the true-crime genre is the one that has its audience sitting on the edge of their seats.

There are various true-crime documentaries and docuseries on the platform, including American Nightmare, Girl in the Picture, Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich, Tiger King, and Don’t F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer, among others.

In April 2024, various documentaries and docuseries are coming to Netflix. However, the three most anticipated true-crime shows are — What Jennifer Did, Crime Scene Berlin: Nightlife Killer, and Files of the Unexplained

Here is all we know about it.

‘What Jennifer Did’ 

What Jennifer Did is an upcoming documentary directed by Jenny Popplewell, the creator of another famous Netflix documentary, American Murder: The Family Next Door.

What Jennifer Did digs into the frightening story of Jennifer Pan, who plotted to murder her parents. The crime, disguised as a heist gone wrong, unravels through police interrogation film and interviews, showing Pan’s network of lies leading up to the incident.

Pan is a Canadian woman who was convicted of a 2010 kill-for-hire attack on her parents, which killed her mother and injured her father. The crime occurred at the Pan house in Unionville, Markham, Ontario, in the Greater Toronto Area. 

According to her exact account, several gunmen entered the house, forcefully retrained her and her parents, then shot them. Her father, Huei Hann, was sent to the hospital, and her mother, Bich Ha, died instantaneously.

A whole new image appears as the law enforcement personnel piece together the facts. Pan plotted the entire operation with her drug dealer boyfriend, Daniel Wong, whom her parents had forbidden her from dating. 

This motivated her to seek his help and devise a plan to murder her parents. This threatening notion was carried out in the form of a burglary, with Pan as the victim. The documentary will also concentrate on her arrest and the legal processes.

What Jennifer Did will be released on April 10, 2024.

‘Crime Scene Berlin: Nightlife Killer’ 

As the name of the documentary suggests, Crime Scene Berlin: Nightlife Killer is based on true events that occurred in Berlin. The series examines the case of several odd and unusual killings.

In 2012, three guys were murdered and robbed in Berlin after being unintentionally drugged. While the murderer was called ‘The Darkroom Murderer’ at the time, just one occurred in a dark room at a homosexual bar in Berlin. 

‘Crime Scene Berlin: Nightlife Killer’ will be released on April 3, 2024.

‘Crime Scene Berlin: Nightlife Killer’ will be released on April 3, 2024. (Source: Netflix)

However, the murderer did look for guys in and around the city’s party scene to prey on victims. Only when one of his targets survived his attack and the assassin attempted to purchase a train ticket with one of the deceased men’s credit cards did the inquiry begin to narrow.

Jan Zabeil and Caroline Schaper directed this true crime show and Netflix will begin streaming the series on April 3, 2024. 

‘Files of the Unexplained’

Files of the Unexplained is an upcoming terrifying eight-episode docu-series that talks about strange encounters, weird disappearances, disturbing incidents, the mystery of mutilated feet washing up, and more. 

This investigative documentary series examines genuine stories that defy explanations and talk about witnessing weird encounters and strange events. 

Files of the Unexplained kind of dives into a similar area as its previous documentaries like Unsolved Mysteries, Haunted, and 28 Days Haunted. According to its plot on Netflix, the series is described as “Eerie encounters, bizarre disappearances, haunting events, and more perplexing phenomena are explored in this chilling investigative docuseries.”

The docuseries will be released on April 3, 2024.

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