Times of India Digest
Daily News • Tuesday, 27 January 2026
$40m rights, $35m marketing: Melania Trump documentary sells just one ticket in UK cinemas; netizens call it ‘failure’
Melania Trump’s authorized documentary, backed by a massive $75 million Amazon budget, has seen surprisingly weak ticket sales in UK cinemas, with some screenings selling just one ticket. Despite a global marketing blitz, the film’s reception suggests a significant disconnect with audiences, sparking widespread online amusement and criticism.
America’s burning town is quietly coming back to life after decades of destruction
Centralia, Pennsylvania, once a thriving town, now stands as a ghost town due to an unending underground coal fire. Decades of abandonment have allowed nature to reclaim the land. Grasses, shrubs, and young trees cover former neighborhoods. Insects, birds, and small mammals have returned. This unintended nature reserve shows life’s resilience even in a place deemed unsafe for human return.
YouTuber iShowSpeed completes Africa tour, calls trip a life-changing experience
YouTuber iShowSpeed described his 28-day, 20-country African tour as life-changing. He aimed to showcase the continent’s rich cultures, traditions, and history, countering negative stereotypes. Broadcasting live, he shared experiences from visiting historical sites to learning dances and meeting locals. The journey also revealed his West African ancestry, making it a profound personal milestone.
Streamer Dr Disrespect sparks social media controversy over fake Highguard badge
Popular streamer Dr Disrespect sparked online debate with a tweet featuring a fake Highguard event badge, humorously hinting at a Los Angeles visit and a 2026 release. He later clarified it was a joke, with developer Wildlight Entertainment confirming no official invitation. The incident highlighted his signature humor and fan engagement.
Frenchman deceived by employer after visa expiry spends month in ICE detention: ‘I thought I was protected’
Valid visa but sent back from Abu Dhabi preclearance: Hyderabad H-1B holder shares ‘unexpected’ experience on way to US
Who is Varun Chandra? Meet UK’s Indian-origin special envoy to the United States
Varun Chandra has been appointed as the UK’s Special Envoy to the United States on Trade and Investment. In this new role, he will spearhead efforts to enhance economic ties and drive trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
Anti-ICE protest in Minneapolis: Biden praises Minnesotans; Melania Trump calls for unity after Alex Pretti shooting
Following two fatal ICE-linked shootings in Minneapolis, former President Joe Biden condemned the violence as a betrayal of American values, praising Minnesotans for speaking out. In contrast, First Lady Melania Trump urged for unity and peaceful protest, emphasizing the administration’s efforts to de-escalate the situation.
Federal agents tackled him, broke his rib: what happened before ICE shot Alex Pretti
An ICU nurse, Alex Pretti, was fatally shot by ICE agents a week after suffering a broken rib during a prior aggressive encounter with federal agents. A memo requested agents collect extensive information on protesters, raising concerns about First Amendment rights. DHS stated such record-keeping is standard protocol for prosecution.
Explained: Why Kanye West’s swastika apology angered Hindus
‘Catch the first flight to New Delhi’: Indian-origin Republican leader trolled after Texas freezes H-1B
Twitch streamer Agent becomes the first to complete a 24-hour Arctic survival stream
Twitch streamer ‘Agent’ made history by completing a 24-hour broadcast from the Arctic, enduring temperatures below -45°F. This extreme survival challenge, which saw him battle freezing winds and fatigue, marks a significant evolution in live streaming content. Agent’s success followed a previous attempt where he withdrew due to inadequate preparation and safety concerns.
Why divers in Chile are putting wine bottles under the ocean in locked cages
Divers in Chile are aging wine underwater. Bottles are placed in cages on the seabed. The ocean’s cold, dark, and pressurized environment offers stable conditions for wine maturation. This method uses the ocean as a natural cellar. Early results show subtle changes in wine texture and balance. This innovative approach minimizes energy use and environmental impact.
Texas freezes H-1B hiring: Governor Greg Abbott directs all state agencies and universities to halt visa petitions
‘No parents should ever have to…’: Canadian mom devastated after son approved for euthanasia, says ‘this is not healthcare’
‘No one foreign…’: MAGA fumes as Bangladesh-born senator authors bill to ban ‘assault weapons’
Virginia Democrats have put forward a suite of proposed legislation, including a significant ban on assault-style weapons spearheaded by Senator Saddam Azlan Salim.
Jimmy Kimmel breaks down on air over ICE killing of Alex Pretti, says ‘every day is a nightmare now’
Jimmy Kimmel became emotional on his show, weeping twice while discussing the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minneapolis. He described the events as atrocities committed by “goons” and urged for courage from the right. Kimmel expressed personal distress, noting family in the city and the fear gripping residents.
Megyn Kelly says she doesn’t feel sorry for Alex Pretti, claims he was ‘looking to cause trouble’
Megyn Kelly faces widespread criticism for her lack of sympathy towards Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse fatally shot by federal agents. Kelly stated she doesn’t feel sorry for Pretti, arguing that interfering with law enforcement operations escalates danger. Her remarks have drawn sharp condemnation from across the political spectrum, with critics questioning her empathy and religious beliefs.
MAGA activist’s home raided in California; authorities find 100-foot tunnel, secret bunker and more
While probing a marijuana-related tip, Shasta County law enforcement stumbled upon a concealed underground bunker brimming with illegal firearms. This shocking find, tied to a controversial MAGA supporter known for questioning election results, included assault rifles and a massive haul of ammunition.
