Bio
Maisa is CMO at A47 Media, leading the strategic marketing and growth function alongside business development. She shares opinion pieces on the GCC marketing community.
Editorial Responsibility
Responsible for how A47 shows up in the world, including the brand presence, building equity and community.
Previous experience · 16+ years
- · Former Head of Influencers at More
- · Ex Head of Strategy and Business Development at Empact Middle East
Education
BA Spanish & Literature, University of Jordan
Areas of expertise
Categories overseen
Stories from Maisa Aloul’s desk
736 stories- Culture· Americas
Generative AI to Feature Val Kilmer in 2026 Film Following Posthumous Recreation
The production team of 'As Deep as the Grave' announced the use of generative AI to recreate Val Kilmer's performance as Father Fintan, nearly eleven months after the actor's death. This development is driven by advancements in AI technology and the approval from Kilmer's family, allowing for a posthumous portrayal that aligns with his vision for innovative storytelling. The long-term implication may set a precedent for the use of AI in film, raising ethical debates about posthumous consent and the future of acting roles.
8 sourcesMar 21Moderate
- Culture· Americas
Afroman Wins Defamation Lawsuit Against Ohio Sheriff's Deputies Over Satirical Music Videos
On March 19, 2026, a jury in Adams County, Ohio, ruled unanimously in favor of rapper Afroman, finding him not liable in a defamation lawsuit brought by seven sheriff's deputies. The lawsuit stemmed from Afroman's satirical music videos that used footage from a 2022 home raid, which the deputies claimed caused emotional distress and reputational harm. This verdict is likely to reinforce First Amendment protections for artistic expression and public criticism of law enforcement actions in the U.S.
7 sourcesMar 21Moderate
- Culture· Europe
Accidental drowning of University of Alabama student in Barcelona
James Paul Gracey, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student, was found dead off Somorrostro Beach in Barcelona after disappearing during a spring break trip. The incident occurred after Gracey separated from friends at a nightclub and fell from a breakwater, leading to his accidental drowning as confirmed by police and autopsy results. This tragedy highlights the risks associated with nightlife activities in tourist areas and may prompt discussions on safety measures for young travelers abroad.
5 sourcesMar 21Low
- Culture· Asia
Jordan Wright Found Dead in Phuket Drainage Canal Prompting Investigation
Jordan Wright, a former British reality television personality, was discovered deceased in a drainage canal in Phuket, Thailand, on March 14, 2026. The investigation was triggered by erratic behavior captured on CCTV footage prior to his death, with authorities awaiting autopsy results to determine the cause. This incident raises concerns about the safety of expatriates and tourists in Thailand, potentially impacting the local tourism industry and expat community perceptions.
3 sourcesMar 21Moderate
- Culture· Americas
Taylor Frankie Paul charged with domestic assault after video surfaces
Taylor Frankie Paul was involved in a violent altercation with her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen, resulting in charges of aggravated assault and domestic violence. The incident, which included physical violence in the presence of their child, has led to the cancellation of her upcoming television projects following the release of a video documenting the assault. This event highlights ongoing issues of domestic violence and may impact the representation of influencers in media and reality television.
6 sourcesMar 21Very High
- Culture· Americas
Chuck Norris, iconic martial artist and actor, passes away at 86
Chuck Norris died on March 19, 2026, at the age of 86 due to a sudden medical emergency in Kauai, Hawaii. His death follows a recent birthday celebration where he appeared healthy, prompting widespread tributes from fans and peers alike. The long-term implication of his passing may lead to renewed interest in his film and television legacy, particularly 'Walker, Texas Ranger'.
11 sourcesMar 21Very High
- Culture· Americas
Rachel Lindsay Declares The Bachelor Franchise Over After Cancellation of Taylor Frankie Paul's Season
On March 20, 2026, Rachel Lindsay announced the Bachelor franchise is 'over' following ABC's cancellation of Taylor Frankie Paul's Bachelorette season due to a leaked domestic violence video. The immediate trigger for this cancellation was the release of footage showing a physical altercation involving Paul, who had a prior conviction for aggravated assault. This incident raises questions about the franchise's future and its vetting processes, potentially leading to significant changes in reality television production standards and practices.
10 sourcesMar 21Moderate
- Culture· Americas
Hachette Book Group Cancels Publication of 'Shy Girl' Over AI Allegations
Hachette Book Group has canceled the U.S. publication of 'Shy Girl' by Mia Ballard and discontinued its U.K. edition due to evidence of significant AI-generated content. The decision follows a report by The New York Times and an independent analysis revealing that 78% of the book's content was AI-generated, raising concerns about originality in publishing. This incident highlights the growing scrutiny and potential regulatory changes regarding AI use in creative industries.
5 sourcesMar 21High
- Culture· Americas
Castmates of Hulu's 'Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' Speak Out Against Domestic Violence Following Assault Video Release
On March 20, 2026, castmates Miranda McWhorter and Layla Taylor publicly condemned domestic violence after a video surfaced showing Taylor Frankie Paul assaulting her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen. This response follows a series of domestic incidents in Utah, leading to police investigations and the suspension of the show's production. The long-term implication may involve a reevaluation of cast participation and brand safety in reality television programming.
5 sourcesMar 21Low
- Culture· Europe
Preliminary Autopsy Confirms Accidental Drowning of University of Alabama Student in Barcelona
James Paul Gracey, a 20-year-old student, was confirmed to have drowned accidentally after falling from a breakwater in Barcelona, with his body recovered on March 19, 2026. The incident occurred shortly after he was last seen at a nightclub, and authorities are awaiting toxicology results to rule out drugging. This tragedy highlights the risks associated with nightlife in tourist areas and may prompt discussions on safety measures for young travelers.
3 sourcesMar 21Moderate
- Culture· Americas
Nationwide Disavowal of César Chávez Honors Following Sexual Abuse Allegations
On March 18, 2026, The New York Times published an investigation detailing sexual abuse allegations against labor leader César Chávez, prompting a rapid movement across the United States to remove his name from public honors. The allegations, based on interviews with over 60 individuals, have surfaced amid a cultural reckoning regarding historical figures and their legacies. This reevaluation is likely to reshape the narrative around civil rights icons and influence future discussions on how to honor complex historical figures.
5 sourcesMar 21Very High
- Culture· Americas
Disney Cancels The Bachelorette Season 22 After Domestic Altercation Video of Taylor Frankie Paul Emerges
On March 19, 2026, Disney canceled Season 22 of The Bachelorette following the release of a video showing Taylor Frankie Paul in a violent altercation with ex-partner Dakota Mortensen. The immediate trigger for this decision was the public outcry and ongoing police investigation into mutual domestic assault allegations between the two. This incident may lead to increased scrutiny of influencer participation in reality television and potential changes in casting practices within the industry.
13 sourcesMar 21Very High
- Culture· Americas
Joseph Duggar Waives Extradition to Florida on Child Molestation Charge
Joseph Duggar waived his right to an extradition hearing in Arkansas after being arrested on charges of child molestation. The arrest follows a confrontation with the victim's father and a recorded confession by Duggar, revealing incidents that allegedly occurred five years ago. This case is likely to reignite public scrutiny of the Duggar family and could lead to further legal repercussions for Duggar and his wife in Arkansas.
10 sourcesMar 21Moderate
- Culture· MENA
GCC Countries Announce March 20, 2026, as Eid al-Fitr Following Crescent Moon Non-Sighting
Saudi Arabia and five other GCC nations declared March 20, 2026, as the first day of Eid al-Fitr after failing to sight the Shawwal crescent moon. This decision was made by supreme courts and moon-sighting committees on March 18, 2026, aligning with traditional lunar sighting practices. The long-term implication includes a projected $60 billion in consumer spending during the Eid celebrations across Gulf markets, highlighting the economic significance of the holiday.
4 sourcesMar 20Low
- Culture· Europe
Len Deighton, Renowned Spy Thriller Author, Passes Away at 97
Len Deighton died on March 15, 2026, at his home in Guernsey at the age of 97. His death comes as the literary world reflects on his significant contributions to the spy genre, particularly through works like The Ipcress File. The long-term implication is a renewed interest in his novels and their adaptations, potentially influencing a new generation of writers and filmmakers in the thriller genre.
3 sourcesMar 20Low
- Culture· Americas
Taylor Frankie Paul Addresses Domestic Violence Allegations Amid Ongoing Investigation
Taylor Frankie Paul publicly addressed domestic violence allegations involving her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen on March 18, 2026, during an ongoing investigation by the Draper Police Department. The immediate trigger for her statement was the scrutiny surrounding her behavior prior to the premiere of 'The Bachelorette' and the fallout from a February incident. This situation is likely to impact her career in reality television, with productions reportedly paused or canceled as a result of the allegations.
3 sourcesMar 20High
- Culture· Europe
Gerd Faltings awarded 2026 Abel Prize for resolving Mordell conjecture
On March 19, 2026, Gerd Faltings was announced as the recipient of the 2026 Abel Prize for his groundbreaking proof of the Mordell conjecture and contributions to arithmetic geometry. This recognition comes at a time when advancements in mathematical research are gaining increased attention and appreciation globally. The long-term implication is a potential surge in academic collaborations and interest in the field of mathematics, influencing future research directions and educational initiatives.
3 sourcesMar 20Moderate
- Culture· Europe
Neanderthal birch tar shown to have antibacterial properties in recent study
Researchers have demonstrated that birch tar produced using Neanderthal methods exhibits antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus. This finding is prompted by a recent peer-reviewed publication that explores the medicinal potential of ancient materials in light of modern antibiotic resistance. The long-term implication may lead to renewed interest in natural antimicrobials and a reevaluation of Neanderthal health practices in contemporary pharmacology.
3 sourcesMar 20Low
- Culture· Americas
98th Academy Awards Viewership Declines to 17.9 Million Amid Changing Audience Preferences
The 98th Academy Awards held on March 15, 2026, attracted 17.9 million viewers, reflecting a 9% decline from the previous year. This drop is attributed to shifting audience preferences, with younger viewers favoring social media highlights over traditional live broadcasts. The long-term implication suggests that the Academy may need to adapt its format and distribution strategies to engage a changing demographic landscape.
3 sourcesMar 20Moderate
- Culture· Europe
Sean Penn Awarded Symbolic Oscar Crafted from Ukrainian Railway Metal in Kyiv
On March 16, 2026, Sean Penn received a replica Oscar statuette made from metal of a Russian missile-damaged railway carriage in Kyiv. This presentation followed his absence from the Academy Awards, where he won Best Supporting Actor, as he prioritized visiting Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict. The event highlights Penn's continued advocacy for Ukraine and may influence further celebrity involvement in humanitarian efforts related to the war.
3 sourcesMar 20Moderate