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SIGMA 200mm F2 DG OS Sport Full-Frame Lens Announced
SIGMA has announced two lenses today. Head here to read more about the new 12mm APS-C lens. But we are here to find out more about the new SIGMA 200mm F2 DG OS Sports—which claims to be the world’s first 200mm F2 lens designed specifically for full-frame mirrorless cameras. The lens will be available for L-mount and Sony E-mount systems, with a release date of September 4, 2025.

The lens incorporates SIGMA’s HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) system for autofocus, designed to provide fast and precise focusing performance. For image stabilization, it features the OS2 algorithm with a claimed 6.5-stop compensation effectiveness (CIPA standard, tested at 200mm on full-frame).

The stabilization system offers two modes:
- Mode 1: Standard stabilization for general shooting
- Mode 2: Panning mode with “Intelligent OS” algorithm for horizontal and vertical panning shots
SIGMA 200mm F2 DG OS Sport Full-Frame Lens. Credit: SIGMA

Key specifications

The lens uses a 19-element, 14-group optical design with 2 FLD and 2 SLD glass elements to control chromatic aberration. It features an 11-blade circular aperture with a minimum of F22, measures 118.9mm × 201mm, and weighs 1,820g. The minimum focusing distance is 170cm with 1:7.6 maximum magnification.

Autofocus uses SIGMA’s HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) system. The OS2 stabilization provides claimed 6.5-stop compensation with two modes: standard and panning with “Intelligent OS” algorithm.

Optical Design:
- 19 elements in 14 groups
- 2x FLD (Fluorite-like Dispersion) glass elements
- 2x SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass elements
- 11-blade circular aperture
- Minimum aperture: F22
Physical Characteristics:
- Focal length: 200mm
- Maximum aperture: F2
- Angle of view: 12.3°
- Minimum focusing distance: 170cm
- Maximum magnification: 1:7.6
- Filter thread: 105mm
- Dimensions: 118.9mm diameter × 201mm length
- Weight: 1,820g
At F2, this lens offers twice the light-gathering capability of F2.8 telephotos, potentially useful for low-light sports photography and shallow depth-of-field portrait work. The 200mm focal length provides moderate telephoto compression while maintaining a manageable size compared to longer focal lengths. For video applications, the presence of an aperture ring (L-mount version), focus breathing control, and dual stabilization modes suggests consideration for cinematographic use, though specific video features like focus breathing characteristics have not been detailed in the announcement.

SIGMA 200mm F2 DG OS Sport Full-Frame Lens on a Sony camera. Credit: SIGMA

Build quality and weather sealing

Following Sports line specifications, the lens includes dust/moisture resistance, heat-resistant exterior coating, and water-repellent front element coating. Controls include three AFL buttons, a focus mode switch, a focus limiter, an OS switch, and a custom mode switch.

The L-mount version adds an aperture ring with click/lock switches, linear/non-linear focus switching, and USB Dock UD-11 compatibility. Both versions include a lens hood, caps, pouch, Arca-Swiss compatible tripod collar, and shoulder strap.

SIGMA 200mm F2 DG OS Sport Full-Frame Lens. Credit: SIGMA

Mount-Specific features

L-mount version includes:
- Linear/non-linear focus switching (camera dependent)
- SIGMA USB Dock UD-11 compatibility for firmware updates and customization
- Aperture ring with a click switch and a lock switch
Sony E-mount version:
- Licensed E-mount specification compliance
- Standard Sony E-mount feature set
Optical performance

SIGMA states the lens design addresses common telephoto issues, including axial and lateral chromatic aberration. The company employs what they call “Super Multi-Layer Coating” combined with “Nano Porous Coating” for flare and ghosting control. Each lens undergoes individual MTF testing using SIGMA’s proprietary measurement equipment before shipping.

Pricing and availability

The availability date is September 4, 2025, and the lens will set you back $3,299

Do you film sports events or wildlife? Do you see yourself trying this new lens any time soon? Please share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.
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August 19, 2025
Israel bans Australian diplomats from occupied territories, as bilateral relations dive further

The Israeli government has revoked the visas of Australian diplomats to the Palestinian Authority, in the latest deterioration of relations between the two countries.

In a statement on social media Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said he had also told the Israeli ambassador in Canberra “to carefully examine any official Australian visa application for entry to Israel”.

He said the decision followed Australia’s announcement that it will recognise a Palestine state.

It was “also against the backdrop of Australia’s unjustified refusal to grant visas to a number of Israeli figures”, he said.

These included former minister Ayelet Shaked and the Chairman of the Knesset’s constitution, law and justice committee, Simcha Rothman.

Rothman’s scheduled visit to Australia was stopped by the Home Affairs Department this week. The right-wing parliamentarian has made inflammatory comments including describing Gazan children as “enemies”. It was decided his presence in Australia would risk a reaction from the Islamic community.

Three Australian diplomats based in Israel have visas for the Occupied Palestinian Territories. They go to the West Bank every day, where they have an office and speak with the Palestinian Authority.

They also provide consular assistance to Australians when needed, and were involved in the exit of Australians and family members who received visas to come to Australia in the early stages of the conflict.

These diplomats are likely now to leave Israel, given they cannot do the work assigned to them.

Before announcing Australia’s planned recognition, which will happen at the United Nations next month, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese spoke with the leader of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbes, and obtained various assurances ahead of the announcement.

The Israeli government’s decision will make the Australian government’s dialogue with the Palestinian Authority more difficult and complicated.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Israel’s decision was “an unjustified reaction” following the recognition decision.

“At a time when dialogue and diplomacy are needed more than ever, the Netanyahu government is isolating Israel and undermining international efforts towards peace.

“We will continue to work with partners as we contribute international momentum to a two-state solution, a ceasefire in Gaza and release of the hostages.”

Sa’ar said antisemitism was “raging in Australia”. “The Australian government is choosing to fuel it by false accusations, as if the visit of Israeli figures will disrupt public order and harm Australia’s Muslim population. It is shameful and unacceptable.”

Opposition leader Sussan Ley said she regretted how the relationship between the governments of Australia and Israel was deteriorating. On the visa rejection, she said Rothman was “an elected member of the Israeli parliament and it’s a very unusual thing to refuse a visa”.

This coming Sunday pro-Palestine marches will be held in more than 30 cities and towns across the country. There will also be a demonstration at Pine Gap, the joint Australian-US facility near Alice Springs.

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August 19, 2025
How listening can transform the patient experience and the healthcare system

When a patient visits a doctor, they are expected to listen to their patients. But in today’s fast-paced health care system, real listening – the kind that makes you feel seen, heard, and understood – can be the first thing to go.

A new article, co-authored by Dr. Leonard Berry of Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School, argues that listening isn’t just a nice gesture; it is a powerful tool that can improve the care and even help heal the health care system itself.

Berry and colleagues at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement in Boston and Henry Ford Health Detroit published their findings in Mayo Clinic Proceedings.

The case of the Norwegian nurse

The team identified what it calls “values-driven listening.” It’s about more than asking questions; it’s about asking the right questions, being present, and showing genuine curiosity and compassion.

Listening is the gateway to healing. It is how we connect, understand and ultimately serve better.”

Dr. Leonard Berry, Study Co-Author and Professor, Mays Business School, Texas A&M University

One story in the article shows just how transformative listening can be. A nurse in a Norwegian nursing home asked a patient, “What would make a good day for you?”

The patient responded: “I want to wear my blue shirt.”

“Why the blue one?” the nurse asked.

“That was my wife’s favorite shirt,” the patient said. “She died two years ago today, and I want to honor her.”

The patient shared memories of his wife with the nurse, and afterward, he asked for a wheelchair so that he could tell other patients about her; it was the first time he’d ever asked to interact with other people at the facility.

“That’s not a medical breakthrough,” Berry said, “it’s a human one.”

Six listening strategies

The authors outline six types of listening that contribute to better care:

Listening that is proximate

Being physically present matters. The provider can learn far more from a quiet moment in the exam room than from a rushed message or chart note. When they’re close, focused and curious, patients are more likely to open up, and that kind of trust is essential for making decisions together about the care. Be sure the provider spends this focused time with patients.

Listening that is curious

The provider’s curiosity can be just as important as their expertise. When they ask open-ended questions and pay attention to the words, body language and emotions, it creates space for honest conversation. That’s often when key details emerge informing the plan of care. “What are your concerns about the plan of care we’ve discussed?” creates a path for open dialogue in a way that “Do you have any questions?” does not.

Listening that earns and enables trust

Trust starts when you feel safe to speak candidly, and that happens when your provider listens without judgment, gives you their full attention and treats your input as essential. At Henry Ford Health, some doctors are using AI-powered tools to handle notetaking during appointments, so they can focus entirely on the conversation.

Listening aided by design

The design of a clinic or hospital can affect how well the patients are heard. Small, crowded spaces make private conversations harder, but simple changes – like your provider sitting down during a visit – can make patients feel more cared for and listened to. Some health systems, like Southcentral Foundation in Alaska, have created “talking rooms” that feel less clinical and more personal, showing that listening isn’t just a skill, it’s something built into the space itself.

Listening that empowers

Listening should lead to action, and that includes listening to the people who care for the patients. When frontline staff are asked what’s wasting time or making care harder, they often have smart, simple fixes. At Hawaii Pacific Health, a program called “Getting Rid of Stupid Stuff” led to hundreds of suggestions, including one that saved nurses 1,700 hours a month by removing a pointless documentation rule. When staff are empowered to speak up, care becomes more efficient, less frustrating and better for everyone.

Listening that fosters resilience

Caring for others is demanding, and when health care workers are supported, they’re better able to support the patients. Simple acts like sharing meals and stories with colleagues can help reduce burnout and build emotional strength in those who are caring for the patients. Some hospitals schedule time for these peer connections, creating space for reflection and support. Ask the provider how their health care system supports its workers.

Listening is kindness

Berry and his co-authors write that deep listening benefits all parties: clinician-to patient; clinician-to-clinician; leader-to-clinical and non-clinical staff. It’s a cultural shift that starts with values. “Do you care enough to listen?” they ask.

For patients, this means one should feel empowered to speak up and expect to be heard.

“Your experiences, concerns and insights are not just helpful, they’re essential,” Berry said. “And when your care team listens with empathy and curiosity, it leads to better decisions, stronger relationships and more personalized care.

“Kindness is not a luxury in health care, it’s a necessity. And true listening is one of its most powerful expressions.”

Source:

Journal reference:

Berry, L. L., et al. (2025). The Value — and the Values — of Listening. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2025.06.002

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August 19, 2025
87% of videogame developers use AI agents to automate tasks – Tech in Asia
1. 87% of videogame developers use AI agents to automate tasks Tech in Asia
2. Nearly 90% of video game developers use AI agents, Google study shows The Express Tribune
3. The Billion-Dollar Game: AI Forges A New Breed Of Global Gaming Moguls Forbes
4. 90% of Games Developers Already Using AI in Workflows, According to New Google Cloud Research PR Newswire
5. AI in Gaming: The Future of Development and Crypto Payroll Solutions OneSafe
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August 19, 2025
Karachi continues to receive heavy rain; main streets flooded, several areas without power – Pakistan
Karachi continues to receive heavy rainfall in several areas since Tuesday morning, triggering power outages throughout the city as traffic police advised citizens to take precautionary measures.

An update from the Karachi Traffic Police at 3:37pm warned of slow movement across the following key roads in the city:
- District South: Capri Chowk-Numaish Chowrangi, Liaquat Highway, Baba
  Urdu Chowk, MA Jinnah Road, Faisal Awari Tower-FTC, I.I. Chundrigar
  Road, Fawara Chowk, Denso Hall, Abdullah Haroon Road
- District East: Bahadurabad, PAF Bridge-city, University Road
- District Central: Lasbela Chowk, Nipa-Sir Syed University, Guru
  Mandir, Jamshed Road, Jahangir Road
- District West: Gulbai Chowk, Lakdi Godi, Dabba Mor, PTC Gate
- District Malir: National Highway, Jinnah Avenue Road
The traffic police advised citizens to take precautionary measures in light of the situation, such as avoiding sudden braking, maintaining a slow speed and a safe distance from other vehicles on the road.

Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah has directed the district administration, the Sindh Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the health department, and Rescue 1122 to remain on high alert amid the situation.

He ordered the immediate drainage of rainwater and instructed the relevant administrations to remain in contact with the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and the PDMA.

“All Deputy Commissioners should be present in the field with their staff,” the chief secretary said.

A Google Maps screenshot at 3pm on Tuesday shows traffic blockages at several thoroughfares across the city.

Separately, PMD, in a weather advisory, forecasted intermittent rains to continue throughout the day.

The minimum temperature is expected to remain at 28 degrees Celsius, while the humidity will be 85 per cent.

According to the Met Office, as of 8am, Saadi Town recorded the highest level of rain at 35.8mm, followed closely by Gulshan-i-Maymar at 33.3mm, while Nazimabad recorded 26mm, Gulshan-i-Hadeed 3mm, University Road 4.4mm, PAF Base Faisal 1mm, Korangi 4.6mm, Surjani Town 7mm, and Defence Housing Authority (DHA) Phase VII 3mm.

The Met Office further said that the following parts of Sindh have been forecasted to receive rain-wind/thundershower at isolated places: Tharparkar, Umarkot, Mithi, Thatta, Hyderabad, Badin, Dadu, Khairpur, Nausharo Feroze, Larkana, Jacobabad, Jacobabad, Sukkur, Ghotki, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sanghar, Islamkot, Nagarparkar, and Mirpur Khas.

According to an earlier PMD forecast, widespread rain and thunderstorms with few moderate to isolated heavy or very heavy falls were expected in the province till August 22, with occasional gaps.

A day prior, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah chaired an emergency meeting to oversee preparations for the monsoon rains.

A press release from his office said CM Shah put all the local bodies, administration and traffic police on high alert, and directed them to strengthen coordination between the relevant departments and organisations.

Rain emergency declared

According to a notification from the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), the Mayor of Karachi, Murtaza Wahab, has declared a rain emergency in the city.

The notification added that he “cancelled all types of (leave) including weekly holidays”, for the essential services departments, directing them to remain available.

He also directed the municipal services, the fire brigade and Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) departments of KMC to establish a Rain Emergency Cell, coordinating with all essential services departments.

On the instructions of the Karachi East Zone’s Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Dr Farrukh Ali, the East Zone police is on high alert to deal with the possible effects of rains, the DIG’s Media Cell said in a statement.

“Clear orders have been issued to all SDPOs (Sub-Divisional Police Officers) and SHOs (Station House Officers) to remain present in their respective areas, ensure drainage, traffic flow and take immediate steps to deal with any emergency,” the statement said.

It added that the DIG had instructed that the protection of life and property of citizens should be ensured at all costs, paying special attention to low-lying areas. Rescue teams and helplines should be kept active, and timely guidance and assistance should be provided to the public.

The DIG statement also appealed to citizens to avoid unnecessary movement during bad weather, advising them to contact 15 or the nearest police station immediately in case of any emergency.

“Police are with the public at all times in all weathers,” it added.

Meanwhile, the traffic police said in another statement that rainwater had accumulated inside the Nazimabad Underpass, causing traffic to be diverted above the underpass on Hakim Ibne Sina Road.

The spokesperson, Saeed Arain, noted that there is “no traffic problem”, saying, “Traffic police are present and managing traffic flow.”

It requested citizens to exercise caution while travelling, guiding them to the Traffic Police Help Line at 1915 for the Central District.

Monsoon rains fall across the region from June to September, offering respite from the summer heat and are crucial to replenishing water supplies. However, heavy downpours also trigger urban flooding, deadly floods, landslides and displacement, particularly in vulnerable, poorly drained, or densely populated areas.
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August 19, 2025
Karachi wakes to much-awaited rain, power outages in several areas across city – Pakistan

Karachi received rainfall in several areas of the city on early Tuesday morning, triggering power outages throughout the city as traffic police advised citizens to take precautionary measures.

In a traffic advisory issued by Karachi Traffic Police at 8:11am, rain caused the traffic to slow down in multiple points across the city, including Sharea Faisal and the main National Highway.

The traffic police advised citizens to take precautionary measures in light of the situation, such as avoiding sudden braking, maintaining a slow speed and safe distance from other vehicles on the road.

Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah has directed the district administration, PDMA, health department and Rescue 1122 to remain on high alert amid the situation.

He ordered the immediate drainage of rainwater and instructed the relevant administrations to remain in contact with PMD and Sindh PDMA.

“All Deputy Commissioners should be present in the field with their staff,” the chief secretary said.

Separately, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), in a weather advisory, forecasted intermittent rains to continue throughout the day.

The minimum temperature is expected to remain at 28 degrees Celsius, while the humidity will be 85 per cent.

According to the Met Office, as of 8am, Saddi town recorded the highest level of rain at 35.8mm, followed closely by Gulshan e Maymar at 33.3mm, while Nazimabad recorded 26mm, Gulshan e Hadeed 3mm, University Road 4.4mm, PAF Base Faisal 1mm, Korangi 4.6mm, Surjani Town 7mm, and DHA Phase VII 3mm.

The following parts of Sindh have been forecasted to receive rain-wind/thundershower at isolated places: Tharparkar, Umarkot, Mithi, Thatta, Hyderabad, Badin, Dadu, Khairpur, Nausharo Feroze, Larkana, Jacobabad, Jacobabad, Sukkur, Ghotki, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sanghar, Islamkot, Nagarparkar, Mirpur Khas.

According to an earlier PMD forecast, widespread rain and thunderstorms with few moderate to isolated heavy or very heavy falls were expected in the province till August 22, with occasional gaps.

A day earlier, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah chaired an emergency meeting to oversee preparations for the monsoon rains.

A press release from his office said CM Shah put all the local bodies, administration and traffic police on high alert, and directed them to strengthen coordination between the relevant departments and organisations.

Monsoon rains fall across the region from June to September, offering respite from the summer heat and are crucial to replenishing water supplies. However, heavy downpours also trigger deadly floods, landslides and displacement, particularly in vulnerable, poorly drained, or densely populated areas.

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August 19, 2025
Karachiites wake up to much-awaited rain, power outages in several areas across city – Pakistan

Karachi received rainfall in several areas of the city on early Tuesday morning, triggering power outages throughout the city as traffic police advised citizens to take precautionary measures.

In a traffic advisory issued by Karachi Traffic Police at 8:11am, rain caused the traffic to slow down in multiple points across the city, including Sharea Faisal and the main National Highway.

The traffic police advised citizens to take precautionary measures in light of the situation, such as avoiding sudden braking, maintaining a slow speed and safe distance from other vehicles on the road.

Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah has directed the district administration, PDMA, health department and Rescue 1122 to remain on high alert amid the situation.

He ordered the immediate drainage of rainwater and instructed the relevant administrations to remain in contact with PMD and Sindh PDMA.

“All Deputy Commissioners should be present in the field with their staff,” the chief secretary said.

Separately, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), in a weather advisory, forecasted intermittent rains to continue throughout the day.

The minimum temperature is expected to remain at 28 degrees Celsius, while the humidity will be 85 per cent.

The following parts of Sindh have been forecasted to receive rain-wind/thundershower at isolated places: Tharparkar, Umarkot, Mithi, Thatta, Hyderabad, Badin, Dadu, Khairpur, Nausharo Feroze, Larkana, Jacobabad, Jacobabad, Sukkur, Ghotki, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sanghar, Islamkot, Nagarparkar, Mirpur Khas.

More to follow

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August 19, 2025
Liverpool mum’s shock as real snake falls out of toy box

A mum was left in “complete shock” when a snake fell out of her daughter’s new toy car box.

Jennifer Baker from Norris Green, Liverpool, had put the empty box on top of the oven after her daughter opened it for her third birthday.

Only later when she came to move it did she discover the bright orange snake and at first thought her sons had been playing a prank.

“I thought it was a toy,” the 30-year-old said. “It’s only when its tongue started moving I realised it was a real snake and I started screaming, its real”.

Ms Baker had been celebrating her daughter’s birthday and had been given the gift earlier that day.

“I took the car out and I put the empty box on top of the oven and then I just went about my day,” she said.

But later when she went to put the box into the recycling bin, she said it felt heavier.

As she lifted it “a snake just fell out of it”, she said.

“I said ‘whose is this’, because I was thinking ‘they haven’t got a toy snake that looks like that’,” but when she saw it moving she started to panic.

“I was staring at this snake and I’m screaming – it’s a real snake,” she said.

“I just was in shock. Walking into the kitchen to find a snake on my oven. I was thinking how has a snake got in my kitchen?”.

Hearing her screams Ms Baker’s mum had rushed in to help.

“So then me and my mum are trying to get this snake into an empty box and its trying to wrap itself around my arm, it was just mad,” she said.

The pair finally managed to contain the snake and later found out it belonged to someone who lives on the same street.

She said it had now been returned to its owner.

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August 19, 2025
Actors say casting agency owes them thousands of pounds

Rachel Stonehouse

Reporter, BBC West Investigations

BBC

Sharon Stanton is one of several actors chasing payment from Lucy Harrison Casting

Actors across England say a casting agency has not paid them for completed jobs, with some being left thousands of pounds out of pocket. Their experiences have highlighted wider concerns about a “hierarchy of power” within the industry.

Wedding singer Sharon Stanton was delighted when her two children decided to follow her into the entertainment industry, with her youngest getting his first paid job earlier this year.

“He did a self-tape back in March, sent it back to the agent who said casting really liked him and offered him the job,” she said.

“It was amazing news, and we were really happy as it was his first commercial. He did the job, had a really good experience and we left.

“But when I came to get payment, I think that was about two weeks later, that’s when I started finding things out.”

Despite chasing it up with the agency – Lucy Harrison Casting – multiple times, they still have not been paid for the job after five months.

Ms Stanton, from Bristol, who has been in the industry herself for more than 15 years, learned through social media that they were not the only ones.

“The more I read and the more I researched, it just came apparent that this has happened to many people nationwide with this casting agency, some owed thousands of pounds,” she said.

“It is just really frustrating and it’s made me think, who is there to help the children?”

Lucy Harrison Casting describes itself as “representing unique and diverse talent” and is understood to have had hundreds of models and actors on its books.

On its website, the agency claims to have worked with brands such as Boots, Coca-Cola and Cancer Research UK.

Natalie Neri said she is owed £1,000 for a job she did in May

Natalie Neri, from London, has been chasing Lucy Harrison Casting for payment for a job she did in May.

She worked with three others on that job and said none of them had received their money.

“I’m out of pocket by more than £1,000 – £128 of that I have personally paid towards my travel and hotel, which was promised to be reimbursed to me,” said Ms Neri.

“I know the casting agency did collect the money already, as I’ve been in touch with the production since.

“The [production company] have paid for myself and the other models, so we’re all owed £1,000 each, and I’m very angry because Lucy Harrison Casting have stolen my hard-earned money.”

The BBC has spoken to actors in different parts of England who are owed money, with some payments dating back to 2024.

Lucy Harrison Casting is the trading name used by two companies. Happy House Productions, based in East Sussex, went into voluntary liquidation at the end of June, while Happy House Media Limited continues to trade.

The director for both companies is the same person.

‘Thoroughly investigated’

Emails sent to clients of Lucy Harrison Casting, seen by the BBC, state that despite the liquidation of Happy House Productions, the agency would “continue to operate”.

The website is still live and appears to now be run by Happy House Media Limited.

Some actors have reported the agency to the government’s Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate.

A spokesperson for the Department for Business and Trade said: “We take all relevant complaints about agencies seriously and ensure they are thoroughly investigated to protect consumers and businesses across the country.”

Lucy Harrison Casting said “both Happy House Media Ltd and Happy House Productions Ltd have always traded as Lucy Harrison Casting, working with the same talent across both sectors of the business” and their activities were “fully compliant with UK law”.

Alexa Morden

Alexa Morden, host of The 98% podcast, has been looking into issues with Lucy Harrison Casting

Actress Alexa Morden – who has appeared in Skins, Fresh Meat and The Great Train Robbery – hosts a podcast called The 98%, which explores what the profession is really like.

She has been looking into concerns with Lucy Harrison Casting for months.

“I just started gathering people’s information of their experiences,” she said.

“I took it upon myself to make an Instagram post because I’d seen enough evidence at this point of withheld pay. The production companies confirming the agent received money months ago. And then, again, it snowballed.”

Ms Morden believes the problems are part of a wider issue in the industry.

She said: “The hierarchy of power or perceived power leaves actors feeling like they can’t rock the boat.

“They can’t push back on anything, they can’t advocate for themselves because of this age-old idea of ‘if you don’t put up with it, there’s a hundred other people in a line who will’.”

Lack of regulation

Equity – the entertainment industry’s main trade union – has now warned its members against working with the agency.

Some of those left unpaid say they reported concerns to the union and Spotlight, which helps connect performers and agents, as far back as last year.

In response, both Equity and Spotlight said they had been made aware of issues with payments earlier this year and had contacted the Employment Agencies Inspectorate.

Lucy Harrison Casting did not say whether the actors owed money would be paid for the jobs they had done, but it did say those contracts had been “undertaken through Happy House Productions Ltd” and “fall within the liquidation process”.

For Ms Stanton, this is not just about the money.

“These people are taking advantage of children and parents,” she said.

“And there’s no one regulating this, there is no one regulating this industry and I think that’s the bigger picture here.”

If you want to contact us regarding this story, email westinvestigations@bbc.co.uk

Follow BBC West on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Send your story ideas via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.

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August 19, 2025
Mariah Carey reveals her verdict on Grammys

Mariah Carey reveals her verdict on Grammys

Mariah Carey has recently revealed her verdict on Grammys in a new video.

The Always Be My Baby hit-maker made an appearance on Pitchfork’s Over/Under YouTube series last week where she discussed pop culture symbols including Labubus, Crocs and Christmas.

During the video, Mariah shared her strong views on the award show after winning only five Grammy Awards over the years with her last nomination happened 16 years ago.

When asked about the biggest award show in music, the Obsessed crooner clearly responded, “I think the Grammys are overrated.”

Mariah went on to explain that she meant both the award show and the award itself.

Interestingly, the American singer-songwriter added, “But we love everybody.”

Elsewhere on the show, Mariah noted that Billboard charts are “underrated”.

In the video, the Emotions singer stated, “Well, they matter to me a lot. So, I’m gonna say they’re underrated, ’cause not everybody is in that world.”

Mariah also offered her view on world record which she believed is “underrated”.

Moreover, the singer mentioned that social media is “a little overrated”.

However, she added, “We all still enjoy it, but it is kind of overwhelmingly huge.”

Meanwhile, the Fantasy crooner pointed out that Labubu dolls are loved by everyone and she also started like wearing Crocs and even called Christmas “so underrated”.

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August 19, 2025