Austin Butler, the Oscar-nominated star of Elvis, is set to play Patrick Bateman in Luca Guadagnino’s upcoming adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’ American Psycho. Following rumors that Euphoria star Jacob Elordi was considered for the role, it has now been confirmed that Butler will take on the iconic character of the narcissistic, serial-killing investment banker.

Guadagnino, best known for Call Me by Your Name and Challengers, will not remake the 2000 film directed by Mary Harron but will instead offer a fresh take on the novel. The script is penned by Scott Z. Burns, known for his work on Contagion and The Laundromat.

The original film, starring Christian Bale as Bateman, was a horror satire set in the 1980s. Guadagnino’s version is expected to emphasize a more erotic tone, with the director’s experience in genre films like Suspiria and Bones and All.

Butler, recently seen in Dune: Part Two and The Bikeriders, will also star in upcoming projects including Eddington and Caught Stealing.

#MaltaDaily

The Labour Party gathered at the Republic Day memorial on December 13 Street to mark a special moment in Malta’s history: 50 years since becoming a Republic. The ceremony, held on Republic Day, carried extra weight this year as the nation celebrated this significant milestone.

Prime Minister Robert Abela, joined by members of the Labour Party administration, spoke about the importance of this anniversary. He highlighted how unity—both within the Party and across the country—has played a key role in shaping Malta’s identity.

Abela reflected on the historic events of 13th December 1974, when a Labour Government, under Dom Mintoff’s leadership, achieved this transformation. It was a turning point for Malta, introducing a new constitution and shifting executive power to the President of Malta as head of state.

“This anniversary is a chance to honour the vision and determination of those who made this change possible,” Abela said, noting the progress Malta has made over the past five decades.

#MaltaDaily

The 24 semi-finalists for the Malta Eurovision Song Contest (MESC) 2025 have been announced, building excitement for what’s shaping up to be an unforgettable event at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

The semi-finals are scheduled for 4 and 6 February, with the grand final set for 8 February. This year’s competition will feature a mix of well-known performers and fresh faces, each eager to claim the coveted spot to represent Malta at Eurovision.

Artists like Alexandra Alden with “Magnolia”, Kurt Calleja with “AZIZ/A”, and Justine Shorfid with “Still I Rise” are set to perform alongside newcomers such as Krista Šujak (“Unheard”) and Victoria Sciberras (“Juno”). Unique entries like Kantera’s “LalaRataTakeke LalaRataKabum” and JVF’s “Festa (No Time for Siesta)” are already generating buzz.

With 24 acts in the running, each performer is gearing up to deliver their best and impress both the judges and the audience.

#MaltaDaily