Black Pearl sunk as Florida reef

The Black Pearl, a 30-metre steel-hulled prop from Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest, has been sunk off Panama City Beach to form a new artificial reef.

Located about six nautical miles southwest of St Andrews Pass in 22–23 metres of water, the site is now open to certified divers and has already begun attracting marine life. Students from Tom P Haney Technical College added pirate-themed steel features — cannons, a treasure chest, a plank and a flag — to enhance the dive experience. Officials said the ship’s lack of engines and fuel made it suitable for reef conversion.

The project supports sustainable fisheries while offering a unique dive site that blends marine conservation with movie magic.

Beyoncé becomes a billionaire

Beyoncé has officially become a billionaire, Forbes reports, driven by decades of album sales, record-breaking tours and business ventures. Her 2025 Cowboy Carter Tour, the year’s highest-grossing, helped push her net worth past $1 billion.

She joins Jay-Z, Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen and Rihanna as the only musicians to reach ten-figure fortunes. Beyoncé began her career in 1990 with Girl’s Tyme, later Destiny’s Child, and launched her solo career in 2003.

Beyond music, her Parkwood Entertainment company, clothing line and hair-care products have added to her wealth, though most of it comes from her music catalogue and self-funded tours.

Simpsons sequel set for 2027

20th Century Studios has announced that The Simpsons Movie 2 will be released on 3 September 2027 during the Labour Day weekend.

The announcement featured Homer Simpson injuring his foot with a flag, replacing the earlier July 23 release date, while dropping a pink-frosted doughnut.

The original film premiered in 2007 between Seasons 18 and 19 of the show, which is now renewed through Season 40, with Season 37 currently airing. Disney expressed interest in a sequel after acquiring the franchise in 2019. Original director David Silverman and veteran writers may return, with the main voice cast expected to reprise their roles.

Published in Dawn, Young World, January 24th, 2026