Reuters People News Summary
Following is a summary of current people news briefs.
Oprah, John Legend voice 'Madagascar' director's VR passion project
It's been around for decades, but, unlike regular 3D, virtual reality (VR) has yet to make a big impact in the movie industry, something a maker of Hollywood animations believes can change - if the films are good enough. Eric Darnell, who co-wrote and directed the "Madagascar" movies, showed his own VR film at the Venice Film Festival this week, "Crow: The Legend", in which the viewer is immersed in the story of a mythical bird that has to fly to the sun to bring back warmth to the Earth.
French actor Depardieu faces rape investigation, denies wrongdoing
Gerard Depardieu is being investigated by the Paris prosecutor over accusations of rape and sexual assault, a judicial source said - though the prominent French actor denies any wrongdoing, according to his lawyer. One of France's most prolific actors, Depardieu, 69, has been in around 170 movies through his career and gained international recognition in 1990 with his starring role in the English language comedy "Green Card".
Aretha Franklin to be hailed as American institution at funeral
Aretha Franklin, who reigned as the undisputed Queen of Soul until her death this month at the age of 76, will be buried in Detroit on Friday after a funeral that will include remarks by former U.S. President Bill Clinton and singing by Stevie Wonder. The funeral, at Detroit's Greater Grace Temple, will feature performances by those influenced by Franklin's singular, soaring voice, including singers Chaka Khan and Ariana Grande.
Prince Harry and Meghan attend hit musical Hamilton in London
Prince Harry and his wife Meghan attended a performance of the hit musical Hamilton on Wednesday to raise money for a charity which works with children affected by HIV in southern Africa. At the end of the show, Harry and the musical's creator Lin-Manuel Miranda planned to address the audience, said a statement from Harry's Kensington Palace residence.
Cliff Richard to release first album of new material in 14 years
Veteran British singer Cliff Richard, who won substantial damages in a privacy case ruling against the BBC last month, said on Wednesday he would release his first album of new material in 14 years, called "Rise Up". Making the announcement on the 60th anniversary of when he released his debut single "Move It", the 77-year-old said the record would come out in November and the title referenced "the bad period" he had recently endured.
