Social
TikTok back online as Trump pushes for US stake
TikTok is back online after Donald Trump pledged an executive order to restore the app. He also suggested the US take a 50% ownership stake in the platform.
In a Sunday statement, TikTok thanked Trump and confirmed efforts to resume service while collaborating on a long-term fix.
As reported by Elizabeth Wollman and Georgia Wells The Australian, Trump urged businesses to keep TikTok running and said his order would delay restrictions, allowing time for a national security deal.
Social
Perplexity AI eyes TikTok merger with ByteDance’s US arm
TikTok’s saviour could come in the shape of US start-up Perplexity AI.
As reported by Julia Love in The Australian Financial Review, the multi-billion dollar company has reportedly pitched a merger with TikTok’s US operations to form a new entity, allowing most of ByteDance’s existing investors to keep their stakes.
TikTok’s sky-high valuation – up to $US50 billion ($80 billion) – and ByteDance’s resistance to selling make finding a buyer tricky. Speculation includes billionaire Elon Musk, who is reportedly under review by Chinese authorities.
Television
Djokovic snubs Nine Over “offensive” comments
Novak Djokovic has vowed to boycott Channel Nine at the Australian Open, until he receives an apology for comments made by by sports anchor Tony Jones, which he claims mocked Serbian fans.
The 10-time AO champion skipped his on-court interview after securing a 15th quarter-final spot, doubling down on his stance in a Sunday night social media video.
As reported by Scott Spits, Roy Ward and Cara Waters report in The Sydney Morning Herald, The Joker said: “I’ve made my stance clear, and it stays until there’s an apology,” Djokovic reiterated.
Streaming
Meghan’s podcast team reportedly needed therapy
Meghan Markle’s podcast team reportedly needed therapy or time off after working with her, Vanity Fair claims, describing her as “aware of the board” but tough on staff during crises.
The 800-word story also portrays Prince Harry as lonely and desperate to reconnect with family, with insiders saying life with the Sussexes is ruthless: “You’re thrown to the wolves.”
The feature, based on months of interviews, marks five years since their royal exit and highlights their rocky Hollywood journey.
Television
Today show presenter stands down over $50K ‘McLaren Man’ slip
Channel Nine has sidelined Today host Alex Cullen after he accepted $50,000 from billionaire Adrian Portelli for calling him “McLaren Man” on air.
Portelli, tired of the “Lambo Guy” nickname, made the offer publicly. Cullen agreed to step down as the network investigates and will return the money.
“Nine is taking this matter very seriously,” a spokesperson said. Cullen’s role on Today is under review.
Pictured: Donald Trump