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Elon Musk’s Father Accused Of Sexually Abusing His Children

 The Times’ report paints a disturbing picture, citing personal letters, emails, and interviews with family members that describe accusations spanning decades. The earliest reported allegation dates back to 1993, when a four-year-old stepdaughter claimed Errol had touched her. Over the following years, family members also accused him of abusing two daughters and a stepson, with three separate law enforcement investigations reportedly opened. Two concluded without action, and the outcome of the third remains unclear.

Errol Musk has vehemently denied the allegations, telling the Times that the claims are “false” and “nonsense in the extreme.” He accused family members of attempting to extort his son Elon, dismissing the accusations as fabrications intended to secure money. Despite the public scrutiny, Elon Musk did not respond to the Times’ requests for comment.

When he has commented on his father in the past, Elon has been unflinchingly candid. In a 2017 Rolling Stone profile, he described Errol as having done “almost every evil thing you could possibly think of,” recalling a childhood in which he went to live with his father at age 10 while his siblings stayed with their mother. “I didn’t really understand at the time what kind of person he was… it was not a good idea,” Elon said, noting that Errol “will have a carefully thought-out plan of evil.”

A Life Of Wealth, Adventure, And Controversy

Errol Musk is no stranger to headlines beyond the allegations. He claims to have co-owned an emerald mine in Zambia, a venture he says made him extremely wealthy. In interviews, he described literally having more cash than he could physically handle, with safes overflowing with stacks of notes. He even involved his sons in selling emeralds to Tiffany & Co. in New York, though Elon has disputed many of his father’s claims, including that Errol invested in Elon and Kimbal’s first company, Zip2.

Errol’s past includes stints in politics – he was elected to the Pretoria City Council in 1972 as a member of the Progressive Party, opposing apartheid – as well as dramatic personal stories, like surviving an alleged home invasion in Johannesburg, in which he claimed he shot three intruders in self-defence.

He also comes from a family of adventurers: his parents were reportedly the first to fly from South Africa to Australia in a single-engine plane, and his grandmother became the first chiropractor in Canada.

How Many Children Does Errol Musk Have?

Errol Musk has fathered at least nine children, including Elon, Kimbal, Tosca, Alexandra, Asha Rose, and two children with his stepdaughter Jana Bezuidenhout, who he married indirectly through her mother, Heide. His relationship with Elon and the other children has been fraught with tension and acrimony for decades.

Elon has repeatedly described his father as irredeemable. “You have no idea about how bad. Almost every crime you can possibly think of, he has done,” he told Rolling Stone. Despite multiple attempts to repair their relationship, Elon concluded that it was impossible. “There is nothing you can do,” he said. “I’ve tried threats, rewards, intellectual arguments, emotional arguments… no way, it just got worse.”

For his part, Errol Musk has dismissed his son’s criticisms as childish. In a 2018 interview with the Daily Mail, he said Elon “needs to grow up” and accused him of throwing a tantrum over Errol’s perceived shortcomings. “I’m not going to hit back,” he said. “He can’t have what he wants and now I am apparently an evil monster.”

Fathering Children With His Stepdaughter

One of the most controversial aspects of Errol’s life has been his relationship with his stepdaughter, Jana Bezuidenhout. The two share a son, Elliot “Rushi” Rush, born in 2017, and a daughter, born in 2019. Errol has defended the relationship as a result of loneliness and circumstance, claiming it was part of “God’s plan or nature’s plan.” Elon and Kimbal reportedly disapproved, believing the children were akin to siblings, though Errol dismissed the objections.

What Does His Ex-Wife Maye Musk Have To Say?

Errol Musk’s public persona is a study in contradictions. He portrays himself as a daring adventurer, successful businessman, and self-made patriarch, yet his estrangement from Elon and other children, allegations of abuse, and turbulent marriages paint a far more complicated picture. His former wife, Maye Musk, has publicly described him as abusive during their marriage, adding that his wealth never compensated for the trauma inflicted.

Despite the turmoil, Errol Musk continues to live a life defined by extremes: high-profile family drama, allegations of abuse, rare moments of wealth and adventure, and a persistent estrangement from one of the world’s most famous sons.

The post Who Is Elon Musk’s Father? Inside Errol Musk’s Controversial Life And Family Drama appeared first on marie claire.

Get to know the lore as we walk back through all of Taylor Swift’s ex-boyfriends and the songs she wrote about them. 

A Complete History Of Taylor Swift’s Ex Boyfriends

Click to find your favourite:

• Joe Jonas
• Taylor Lautner
• John Mayer
• Jake Gyllenhaal
• Conor Kennedy
• Harry Styles
• Calvin Harris
• Tom Hiddleston
• Joe Alwyn
• Matty Healy
• Travis Kelce

Joe Jonas, July 2008 – October 2008

The first time Tay openly dated a celeb was her relationship with former Jonas brother Joe Jonas in 2008. Taylor later revealed the relationship was ended by Joe over a 27-second phone call. Yikes. She ended up writing the song “Forever And Always” about him. On Speak Now she also wrote ‘Last Kiss’ and later released ‘Mr. Perfectly Fine’ as a Vault track on Fearless.

Taylor Lautner, August 2009 – November 2009

The pair met on the set of Valentine’s Day and took an instant liking to one another. Taylor reportedly wrote the song ‘Back To December’ about regretting breaking up with Lautner. It features the lyrics “your tanned skin, your sweet smile”, which tipped fans off it was Lautner.

The two have remained friends and he appeared on stage at her Eras Tour concert to announce the launch of Speak Now (Taylor’s Version).

John Mayer, November 2009 – February 2010

Taylor was only 19 when she dated John Mayer, and it was one of her most tumultuous relationships, per Swiftie lore. They wrote ‘Half Of My Heart’ together, but she later ended up writing the song Dear John about him, a song about a man breaking the heart of a girl who was too young to know better.

Mayer is rumoured to have retaliated with his song ‘Paper Doll’.

Swift released ‘Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve’ on Midnights, which offered references to Dear John, and many believe was a call back to the relationship. The song features the heart-breaking lyric, “I damn sure never would have danced with the devil, at 19.”

Jake Gyllenhaal, October 2010 – January 2011

Taylor and Jake dated for four months, and Jake even got a private jet to bring her to him for a date. What sounded like a quick burn, the pair didn’t date for long, but as Taylor asked on All Too Well (10 minute version), “Did the twin flame bruise paint you blue?” The dual Sagittarians had an intsense love affair, despite a 10 year age gap, which fans think is the reason the two eventually called it quits.

Swift’s relationship with Gyllenhaal led to one of her all-time most famous songs All Too Well, which was later re-released as a 10 minute version on Red (Taylor’s Version). The song suggests that after the two had called it quits Gyllenhaal had called to rekindle things, but that the relationship was already too broken.

Conor Kennedy, July – September 2012

Taylor and Conor had a fling over summer, but Conor was only 18 at the time and headed for college. She received some criticism for the age difference between the two.

During this time she purchased a home near the Kennedy compound in Massachusetts, but the two couldn’t make it work. Things got worse when Connor’s family accused him and swift of crashing his cousin’s wedding in August.

It is believed the star wrote ‘Begin Again’ about Kennedy, talking about how meeting someone like him helped her forget dating traumas of the past.

Harry Styles, December 2012 – January 2013

This short-lived relationship was very popular for their fans. They broke up due to the intense media attention they were subjected to.

It is believed that most of 1989 is about Styles, including ‘Style’ and ‘Out Of The Woods’. Many think ‘I Knew You Were Trouble’ on Red is also about him.

The two have since seemed supportive of one another, with Swift giving Styles a standing ovation when he won a Grammy in 2023.

Calvin Harris, March 2015 – June 2016

Taylor’s relationship with Calvin was her longest to date, at this point in time. While the pair seemed to be doing great, the distance and their clashing schedules eventually got to them, and they broke up.

Swift and Calvin Harris co-wrote hit ‘This Is What You Came For’ together, with Swift originally going by a pseudonym. This became a source of tension in the relationship, and it was left in bitterness.

The only song Swift has appeared to write about Harris is ‘I Forgot That You Existed’.

However, on the release of Midnights, many fans think that ‘High Infidelity’ is about Harris, featuring the lyric, “Put on your headphones and burn my city. Your picket fence is sharp as knives and I was dancing around it.”

Tom Hiddleston, June – September 2016

Tom Hiddleston and Taylor Swift met at the 2016 Met Gala and then were spotted kissing near the beach in June 2016 – very soon after Tay and Calvin’s breakup.

Their whirlwind romance quickly saw them jetting across the road and making grand gestures of love (namely via a t-shirt that read ‘I heart TS). Alas however it wasn’t to last and the pair have since gone their separate ways. “It was an amicable split,” a source told WHO. RIP Hiddleswift.

Joe Alwyn, Early 2017 – 2023

Although Taylor had been open about her romances in the past, it appears she went the opposite way with British actor Joe Alwyn.

The pair were famously reclusive over their six year romance. They met on the same night that she met Hiddleston, the Met Gala. The two began a relationship after her time with Hiddleston came to an end, per ‘Delicate’, she would meet him in dive bars in New York City.

Things started off casual (see: ‘Cruel Summer’), but they couldn’t deny their feelings for one another. The two went on to have a beautiful and lasting relationship, even writing songs together such as ‘Exile’, ‘Evermore’ and ‘Sweet Nothing’. Alwyn was credited under a pseudonym ‘William Bowery’.

In 2019, the pair sparked engagement rumours, with some reports even alleging that they were looking to purchase a joint property in London. However, in April 2023 it all came to an end with the pair rumoured to have called it quits.

While they never made an official statement, Swift did release the song ‘You’re Losing Me’, alleged to be about the breakup. It features the heart-breaking line, “And I wouldn’t marry me either, a pathological people pleaser, who only wanted you to see her.”

However, sources told ET that the split was “not dramatic” and that the relationship had simply “run its course”.

Matty Healy, May 2023

In May 2023, Swift was rumoured to be dating the 1975 front man Matty Healy, much to the chagrin of her fans who did not approve of the singer as a love interest.

The pair were seen exiting her Nashville concert together and at dinner several times, but it appears the two called it quits within a month or so.

Travis Kelce, September 2023 – Present

In September 2023, Swift was rumoured to be in a relationship with Chiefs NFL star Travis Kelce. Kelce told fans on his New Heights podcast that he had wanted to give Swift a a friendship bracelet with his phone number on it when he attended the Kansas City dates for the Eras Tour. However, none of the celebrities got to meet Swift after the show, so he didn’t get to share it with her. 

“She doesn’t meet anybody, or at least she didn’t want to meet me,” he joked. “I took it personal.”

Then came rumours from DeuxMoi that Swift had been spotted with Kelce. The Messenger reported on a source that said, “Taylor and Travis have been quietly hanging out. “She saw him when she was in NYC a few weeks ago.”

As the story goes, the two have been together ever since, and got engaged in August 2025. It looks like this one is forever.

Related Articles:

• Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce’s Complete Relationship Timeline

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Given we’ve already had one bomb cyclone this season, it’s no surprise Sydney surpassed its yearly average rainfall this week—and there’s still four months to go.

In your typical year, August is Sydney’s fourth driest month. This late in the season, we’re usually skipping off to the beach singing “spring has sprung”. Alas, not in 2025. This month has reportedly seen triple its average rainfall in Sydney.

So, yeah. We’re over it.

While the BOM has stopped short of labelling the rains a La Niña event, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has declared a La Niña watch for the coming months, per ABC News. Australians will be familiar with La Niña, given we’ve had one every year of the 2020s. For context, La Niña events are thought to occur every two to seven years.

La Niña or not, we aren’t fans of this prolonged winter drudgery, even if it is an excuse to bust out a cute raincoat. This begs the question, when will it end?

The good news is there will be a reprieve in wet weather by the week’s end. Here’s what we know.

When Is Sydney Rain Ending?

The good news is that the end of the rainfall is in sight! Weatherzone has announced that heavy rain is here to stay for the rest of the working week, but the weekend will see a “drying trend”. At present, the Bureau of Meteorology is still predicting showers over the weekend in Sydney and into next week. However, the sun will come out and by Wednesday, Sydney could even see temps up to 24 degrees.

Until then, however, batten down the hatches because Sydney is expected to see its total average August rainfall in just two days before the weekend.

How Much Rain Has Sydney Had in the Last 24 hours?

Per the BOM, some areas of Sydney have had rains exceeding 70mm over the past 24 hours. The hardest hit areas appear to mostly be in northern Sydney, with Allambie recording over 76mm at the time of publishing. Meanwhile, Rose Bay golf course, close to Sydney CBD, 54mm at the time of publishing. Rainfall was slightly lower in western and southern parts of Sydney.

The city-wide deluge was greatest on Thursday morning, so this 24-hour rainfall figure is likely to rise.

Is There Risk Of Flooding In Sydney?

According to the ABC, parts of NSW have been put on flood watch. The Bureau couldn’t pinpoint exactly where, but has said minor to moderate flooding is possible in areas along the mid-north coast, Northern Rivers and Northern Tablelands, and Hunter Regions, as well as parts of Greater Sydney.

This doesn’t speak to local conditions, where drainage or other issues could result in minor flooding.

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What Happened To The Madonna Movie?

The Ozark and Inventing Anna star isn’t just pretending to be Madonna in some cheeky SNL sketch. She’s been cast to play the Queen of Pop in the long-rumoured (and frequently paused) biopic that Madonna is, naturally, directing herself. And yes, the film is apparently still happening. “That’s supposed to still happen,” Garner confirmed on the SmartLess podcast, casually dropping the bombshell with the same nonchalance most of us reserve for saying we might go to Pilates later.

This isn’t your average musical biopic. This is Madonna’s musical biopic. A deeply personal, wildly ambitious, possibly exhausting project about the woman who turned cone bras and controversy into a global brand. It was originally announced in 2022, got shelved in 2023 (blame her world tour), and is now allegedly being retooled as a Netflix series, possibly involving Stranger Things super-producer Shawn Levy. Nothing is ever simple when it comes to Madonna. Or Julia Garner, for that matter.

Garner, no stranger to intense performances (hello, Ruth Langmore), took on the audition challenge with the kind of gusto Madonna herself might call “borderline psychotic, in a good way.” She told the podcast she was not a trained dancer, but still said yes to dancing – in front of Madonna. And singing. With Madonna. No pressure.

Her mantra going into it? “What would Madonna do?”

Spoiler: Madonna would absolutely fake it till she makes it, flip the room on its head, and then probably invent a new genre while she’s at it.

“I had to convince her that I can dance,” Garner said. “I was kind of like, ‘You can take it or leave it. But if I leave, that’s on you.’” And just like that, a new religion was born.

Is Julia Garner Playing Madonna?

The role of Madonna was hotly contested, with Florence Pugh, Alexa Demie and Anne Winters also reportedly in the running. But it was Garner – elfin, electric, and quietly intense – who clinched it. She doesn’t just wear the crown; she twirls in it, eyeliner sharp, ponytail tighter than a bank holiday brunch booking.

The biopic (or now possibly series) remains deep in development limbo, but if Garner’s got anything to say about it, she’s still very much into the groove. And honestly, we kind of want to see her dance battle Madonna again – this time, on screen.

As for when we’ll see it? TBD. But like Julia says: “Anything that’s great… takes a long time.” And if anyone knows how to make us wait and still want it – it’s Madonna.

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While the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued a severe weather warning to anyone in the New South Wales area earlier this week, the conditions have worsened overnight, with the system now expecting to batter coastal cities into Wednesday.

Warnings have been upgraded as of Tuesday morning, with further intensification expected throughout the day.

Needless to say, if there was ever a day to work from home or avoid travelling as much as possible, it’s today.

Below, everything you need to know about the what’s in store for Sydney and the surrounding regions, including what to look out for and how to stay safe.

What Is A Bomb Cyclone?

For anyone hearing the terms “bomb cyclone” or “bombogenesis” for the first time (us included) it can be easy to pass it off as mere hyperbole. But the storm system being described is anything but.

Simply put, bombogenesis is a term used by meteorologists to explain a large storm system that undergoes rapid transformation over a 24-hour period. It’s severity increases once the atmospheric pressure drops suddenly leading to the possibility of severe ramifications.

“This a severe weather warning for a deepening low pressure system that will affect a large portion of the NSW coastline,” Bureau of Meteorology hazard preparedness manager Steven Bernasconi warned.

“One of these low pressure systems will start to dominate and that will actually become then a vigorous coastal low., he added. “It is a complex system and it is dynamic.

“There is a severe weather warning for this whole vigorous low pressure system.”

Where Will The Bomb Cyclone Hit?

The weather system is set to significantly impact areas in close proximity to the coast, including NSW and Sydney.

“We could certainly see those gusts upwards of 80, 90, even 100 kilometres per hour around parts of the Sydney Metro area on Tuesday – that’s definitely enough to cause a bit of damage, bring down some trees,” warned Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Angus Hines.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the following areas have been issued with wind warnings as of Tuesday morning, 1 July.

Storm Force Wind Warning: Macquarie Coast and Hunter Coast

Gale Warning: Sydney Enclosed Waters, Sydney Coast, Illawarra Coast and Batemans Coast

Strong Wind Warning: Byron Coast, Coffs Coast and Eden Coast

Sydney, in particular the Illawarra and southern regions are set to be the worst affected, with meteorologist Angus Hines predicting up to 200 millimetres of rainfall along the coastal fringe.

Flood warnings have also been issued for areas around Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong, with the torrential rains expected to exceed the July average in less than 24 hours.

Residents in NSW are being urged to prepare for the powerful “bomb cyclone” headed for Sydney. “We do expect to see further warnings issued for NSW today, basically for the developing situation,” explained Bureau of Meteorology’s Daniel Hayes.

“Once the system starts to have some significant impacts, there could be additional, more localised warnings issued … so certainly people (should) keep an eye out for warnings and track the situation.”

For the most up to date information, specific flood warnings for rivers and lakes can be found on the Bureau of Meteorology‘s floodwatch active.

What Is An East Coast Low?

Generally speaking, an east coast low is an intense low-pressure system that can develop on or around Australia’s east coast.

What sets this weather system apart from other storms is its impact. “An east coast low is first and foremost an intense low-pressure system that forms quite quickly,” explains Hayes.

“So it has to get to be a strong low-pressure system, such that it can have a large impact,” including, “extreme rainfall, storm-force winds and large waves.”

With the potential to produce winds up to a category two cyclone level, east coast lows have been the cause of some of Australia’s worst natural disasters, so are not to be taken lightly.

What Are The Dangers Associated With A Bomb Cyclone?

Urgent warnings have already been issued in regards to the bomb cyclone set to lash NSW today and into the week, with meteorologists warning the system would be “even more explosive than initially forecast.”

The State Emergency Service has activated all of its 11,000 volunteers in preparation for the severe weather, and has urged residents to remain indoors and away from areas that pose a significant risk to safety amid “dynamic” weather conditions.

“We are prepared here at the State Emergency Service … but what we need is for you to be prepared,’ NSW SES deputy commissioner Debbie Platz said on Monday.

Residents have been asked to download the Hazards Near Me app, secure loose items such as trampolines or outdoor furniture, and move move vehicles away from any large trees.

The post What Exactly Is A Bomb Cyclone? What The NSW Severe Weather Warning Means appeared first on marie claire.

For months preceding the film’s release, and well into the high profile press tour, it was clear that Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni wanted nothing to do with each other. Headlines began circulating around the pair’s alleged feud, with a swell of instant, almost unbelievable backlash levelled against the film’s lead that continued to pick apart everything from her press tour wardrobe choices, to her newly-launched haircare company.

Everywhere you looked, it was impossible to escape the rumours of on-set conflict, spurred on by a wave of criticism unleashed upon Lively that felt reminiscent of Olivia Wilde’s experience during the Don’t Worry Darling press tour.

Additionally, Lively’s public treatment drew similar comparisons to the internet’s offensive against Amber Heard during the Johnny Depp trial – a parallel, it seems, that may be more grounded in reality than it first appeared.

A bombshell investigation published on December 21 by The New York Times revealed that Blake Lively has filed a complaint against her It Ends With Us co-star and director, Justin Baldoni for sexual harassment.

Lively’s filing includes excerpts from thousands of pages of text messages and emails that her legal team obtained through a subpoena, including the alleged inner workings of Baldoni’s crisis PR team led by none other than Johnny Depp’s own – Melissa Nathan.

As Justin Baldoni continued to suffer through the fallout from his alleged actions, and attempts to reclaim the narrative in his favour by suing The New York Times for libel, Lively and her legal team escalated their initial complaint in response.

Blake Lively Files Lawsuit Against Justin Baldoni In Federal Court

Initial reports of Baldoni launching a countersuit against Blake Lively broke just before New Year’s Eve, 2024, after his legal team alluded to a filing that would “shock everyone who has been manipulated into believing a demonstrably false narrative.”

Though it was implied the rumoured lawsuit was being prepared against Lively, Baldoni and his team redirected their suit towards the publication that broke the story in the first place – The New York Times.

The 87-page complaint was filed by Baldoni’s lawyers alongside 10 additional plaintiffs including publicists Melissa Nathan and Jennifer Abel, and producers Jamey Heath and Steve Sarowitz of Wayfarer Studios, accusing the publication of libel and false light invasion of privacy.

Baldoni’s filing included various claims that attempt to reverse the smear campaign narrative, alleging that both Baldoni and his co-plaintiffs have themselves been victims of a targeted campaign at the hands of Lively.

The filing also mentioned Lively’s decision to submit her initial complaint to the California Civil Rights Department – a choice, read the document, that “spared her from the scrutiny of the discovery process, including answering questions under oath and producing her communications. The decision was no accident.”

Almost as fast as the words were submitted – and documents released to the public – came Lively’s swift response by way of her own legal escalation.

Eleven days after the actress filed her initial complaint against Justin Baldoni and his team, she formally sued her It Ends With Us co-star and director in federal court.

“As laid out in this Complaint, the Baldoni-Wayfarer-led public attack of Ms. Lively was the intended result of a carefully crafted, coordinated, and resourced retaliatory scheme to silence her, and others, from speaking out about the hostile environment that Mr. Baldoni and Mr. Heath created,” reads the 13-claim complaint submitted to the Southern District Of New York court on the 31st of December 2024.

The claim continues: “As such, it was not only unconscionable and a breach of contract, but also illegal under both state and federal law. Ms. Lively brings this action to hold Wayfarer and its leaders, Mr. Baldoni, Mr. Heath, and Mr. Sarowitz, accountable for the ongoing retaliation threats and harm they have caused Ms. Lively, other cast and crew, and all of their families”

Blake Lively’s Initial Claims Against Justin Baldoni

Lively’s complaint – filed with the California Civil Rights Department as a precursor to a lawsuit, alleges sexual harassment and retaliation, among other claims.

According to the claims reviewed by The Times, Lively had complained that both Justin Baldoni and lead producer, Jamey Heath, had “repeatedly violated physical boundaries and made sexual and other inappropriate comments to her.”

In response, their studio Wayfarer, agreed to enlist a full-time intimacy coordinator, bring in an outside producer and ensure there were other safeguards introduced on set – including a contract signed by Health that promised not to retaliate against Lively.

According to Lively’s legal complaint filed on December 21, the two men grew concerned about how the allegations could impact public perception and immediately sought to mitigate the situation.

In hiring crisis PR manager Melissa Nathan and her “hired gun” Jed Wallace, to lead a digital strategy aimed at tarnishing Lively’s reputation, Baldoni and Heath doubled down on their attempts to silence and reframe a potentially damaging narrative of their own.

The filings reveal a documented “playbook for waging a largely undetectable smear campaign in the digital era”, with initial texts between a representative for Baldoni and Nathan, uncovering the extent of its intended purpose.

“He wants to feel like she can be buried,” a publicist working with the studio and Baldoni wrote in a message sent on August 2 to Melissa Nathan.

“You know we can bury anyone,” Nathan replied.

The Origins Of Blake Lively’s Claims

In November 2023, as the cast was preparing to resume production on the film following a writer’s strike, Lively approached the studio to ensure safeguards would be put in place.

“Our client is willing to forego a more formal HR process in favor of everyone returning to work and finishing the Film as long as the set is safe moving forward,” her legal team wrote in the request.

Outlined in the request were allegations of serious misconduct that included Baldoni improvising “unwanted kissing” and discussing his sex life “including encounters in which he said he may not have received consent.”

Health, too, was included in the letter, with Lively alleging he had shown her a video of his wife naked, and watched her in her trailer when she was topless having her body makeup removed.

Lively also alleges that both men repeatedly entered her makeup trailer uninvited “while she was undressed, including when she was breastfeeding.”

The studio agreed to the terms and studio reps acknowledged that “Although our perspective differs in many aspects, ensuring a safe environment for all is paramount.”

But the division had already begun festering, with Lively locked in a creative dispute so significant, she felt the need bring in editors and a composer to make her own cut of the movie – with the support of Sony – the film’s distributor. Sony and Wayfarer opted to release Lively’s cut, leading to her producer credit.

Following the release of the film, Lively and other cast members informed the studio that they would not be taking part in joint appearances with Baldoni – a stance supported by Colleen Hoover – who reportedly had her “own dissatisfactions” with Baldoni.

Such opinions were only heightened after Hoover learnt of Lively’s allegations, according to uncovered text messages between Baldoni and Health.

The author responded to the breaking news with an Instagram story showing both she and Lively hugging after a screening of It Ends With Us, accompanied by the text:

“@blakelively you have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive and patient since the day we met. Thank you for being exactly the human that you are. Never change. Never wilt.” Hoover has since been joined by a chorus of supportive ex-cast members, family and industry heavyweights voicing their support.

Justin Baldoni’s Texts With PR Crisis Team

As revealed in the subpoenaed communications between Baldoni and his crisis PR team, an initial document sent to the studio suggested “talking points” for Baldoni’s promotional tour, including the insinuation that Lively used an imbalance of power to take control of the film.

According to the exchange, Baldoni wasn’t happy with the angle and “wanted more”.

“Not in love with the document they sent,” he responded in a text exchange between Jennifer Abel (a Wayfarer publicist) and Heath. “Not sure I’m feeling the protection I felt on the call.”

Abel allegedly expressed his frustration, telling Nathan: “I think you guys need to be tough and show the strength of what you guys can do in these scenarios. He wants to feel like she can be buried.”

“Of course- but you know when we send over documents we can’t send over the work we will or could do because that could get us in a lot of trouble,” Nathan responded, before adding, “We can’t write we will destroy her.”

Almost immediately, Nathan followed up with: “Imagine if a document saying all the things that he wants ends up in the wrong hands.”

Three days later, Baldoni messaged Nathan with a link to a social media thread accusing another celebrity of bullying. The thread had 19 million views – a response Baldoni allegedly wanted to replicate.

“This is what we would need,” he wrote to Nathan, before she responded with proposals to that effect.

She outlined possible courses of action that included “full social account take downs,” by starting “threads of theories” and generally working to “change the narrative.”

“All of this will be most importantly untraceable,” she said of the proposed strategy.

The court documents also reveal the insidious nature of the alleged strategy, with communications between Nathan and Abel revealing they had already sought to steer the narrative through multiple journalists.

On August 4, Abel wrote to Nathan saying: “I’m having reckless thoughts of wanting to plant pieces this week of how horrible Blake is to work with. Just to get ahead of it,”

Nathan responded by stating she’d already spoken with journalists off the record, one of which was “ready when we are.”

In the weeks that followed, a slew of negative and wildly confusing press coverage surrounded the apparent on-set scandal, with backlash heavily leaning towards Lively. A strategy that Nathan declared a huge success, as laid out in a text message to Abel that read: “ALL Press is so overwhelming Weve [sic] confused people So much mixed messaging It’s actually really funny if you think about it.”

The Alleged Blake Lively Smear Campaign In Action

On August 10, Norwegian entertainment journalist Kjersti Flaa, uploaded a video to YouTube showing an exchange between her and Lively during a 2016 interview.

Entitled “The Blake Lively interview that made me want to quit my job”, the snippet showed Flaa commenting on Lively’s “baby bump” and the uncomfortable interview that followed.

In an interview with The Daily Mail, the journalist said “it’s time that people behaving badly in Hollywood, or anywhere else for that matter, gets called out for it.”

The very same journalist also sided with Nathan’s previous client – Johnny Depp – posting glowing clips of the disgraced actor accompanied by #JusticeForJohnnyDepp, in 2022.

Hours after the NY Times article was published Flaa took to her socials to deny any involvement in the alleged smear campaign.

“Just wanted to put it out there. I have nothing to do with Justin Baldoni and his smear campaign against Blake Lively,” Flaa said on Threads.

During the promotional tour for It Ends With Us, Lively’s comments about “donning your florals” for the screening, as well as a total lack of domestic violence discourse in interviews, drew public ire for its seemingly tone-deaf approach. Additionally, she was also criticised for promoting the film through her Betty Booze brand, considering the role alcohol can play in cases of abuse.

Latching on to the negative discourse surrounding Lively, Baldoni’s team decided to lean in to the opposite with a dedicated response that highlighted victim survivors across his own promotional schedule.

In a promotional interview, Lively shared an anecdote about working with her husband, Ryan Reynolds, to re-edit one of the scenes in the film.

Rumours and headlines stating that Reynolds had violated the writers strike began to swirl immediately afterwards.

As each damning cog in the dedicated anti-Lively wheel kept turning, so too did the direction of Baldoni’s crisis PR team.

“We’ve started to see shift on social, due largely to Jed and his team’s efforts to shift the narrative,” said one of Nathan’s team in a text.

In response, Nathan wrote to Abel: “And socials are really really ramping up. In his favour, she must be furious. It’s actually sad because it just shows you have people really want to hate on women.”

By mid-August, Baldoni’s PR team were in a celebratory mood.

“The narrative online is so freaking good and fans are still sticking up for Justin and there literally has been no pickup of those two articles which is actually shocking to me. But I see this as a total success, as does Justin,” Jennifer Abel wrote in a text to Nathan, congratulating her on her “amazing work.”

“That’s why you hired me right?” Nathan said in response to Abel’s comment. “I’m the best.”

Justin Baldoni Has Lawsuits Dismissed

Bryan Freedman, attorney for Justin Baldoni, Wayfarer Studios and its representatives responded to the claims published by The Times, denying all allegations as “completely false, outrageous and intentionally salacious with an intent to publicly hurt and rehash a narrative in the media.”

In a statement made by Lively as part of the filed claim, the actress denied either she or her representatives “planted or spread” negative information about Wayfarer or Baldoni.

“I hope that my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics to harm people who speak up about misconduct and helps protect others who may be targeted,” she said.

At the initial time of writing, It Ends With Us had just been added to Netflix’s summer programming schedule and Baldoni’s second wave of promotion for the film had just begun.

Since, Justin Baldoni has suffered a huge legal loss, with his $400 million lawsuit against Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, and his libel case against The New York Times both being dismissed from court on June 9, 2025.

The judge’s most recent decision came just weeks after Baldoni’s lawyer subpoenaed Taylor Swift, kicking off a slew of allegations including outrageous claims that Lively had blackmailed Taylor Swift in order to pressure the Reputation singer into supporting their cause.

Blake Lively’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni is still set to go before the courts in March 2026.

Related articles:

• Why Justin Baldoni’s Lawsuit Against Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds Has Been Dismissed
• Justin Baldoni Sues Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds For $400m
• Justin Baldoni Files $250 Million Lawsuit Against The Times

The post The Blake Lively Lawsuit Against Justin Baldoni, Explained appeared first on marie claire.

Now, the Potterverse has been sent into a spin, as the series adds its new Harry, Ron and Hermione into the star-studded cast list.

The young actors set to bring to life the beloved trio have been announced as Arabella Stanton, Dominic McLaughlin and Alastair Stout, who are set to play Hermione, Harry and Ron respectively.

In a statement released by showrunners Francesca Gardiner and Mark Mylod, it was revealed that the final cast was chosen after an “extraordinary search.”

“The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen. We would like to thank all the tens of thousands of children who auditioned. It’s been a real pleasure to discover the plethora of young talent out there.”

The news comes amid the previously confirmed casting of John Lithgow as Dumbledore, Nick Frost, as Hagrid, Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall and Paapa Essiedu as Professor Snape.

In light of the news, we’ve cast our best Alohomora spell to uncover as many details as possible about what fans can expect from the upcoming Harry Potter TV series and its growing cast list.

Who Is Arabella Stanton?

Actress Arabella Stanton, 11, has been cast to play Hermione in the upcoming Harry Potter tv series and given her previous experience on London’s west end, is no stranger to magic.

As the rest of the world gets to know the young actress set to step into the shoes of one of fantasy’s most beloved characters, theatre-goers might recognise Stanton from her role as Matilda in Matilda the Musical.

She’s also starred in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s play Starlight Express, but this series will be her first major television part.

Harry Potter TV Series Cast Confirmed So Far

Bringing the global hit back to the big screen is no mean feat for the show’s casting agents. After all, with such an enduring legacy comes a huge amount of responsibility.

As such, showrunners have been adamant that they intend to do right by the Potterverse and unveil a new and equally magical cast for its next iteration.

After much speculation, actor John Lithgow, 79, has been officially signed on to play Dumbledore, the multi-layered headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Confirming the news with ScreenRant‘s Liam Crowley, Lithgow admitted to feeling nervous about the sheer scope of the commitment at first.

“Well, it came as a total surprise to me. I just got the phone call up at the Sundance Film Festival for yet another film, and it was not an easy decision because it’s going to define me for the last chapter of my life, I’m afraid. But I’m very excited. Some wonderful people are turning their attention back to Harry Potter. That’s why it’s been such a hard decision. I’ll be about 87 years old at the wrap party, but I’ve said yes.”

Following early reports from Deadline that the beloved role of Hagrid will be played by Nick Frost, HBO has now confirmed the news.

The production company also confirmed Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape as well as Janet McTeer, who joins the cast as the beloved Head of Gryffindor House, Professor Minerva McGonagall, previously played by the inimitable Maggie Smith. Which are both big shoes to fill, we must say.

Guest roles and recurring cast members have also been confirmed in Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell, who we can only assume will be our first villain, and Paul Whitehouse as grumpy caretaker, Argus Filch. No word yet on which feline will portray his beloved Mrs Norris.

Here’s hoping we’ll soon know who’s set to play fan favourites Neville Longbotton, Luna Lovegood and Fred & George Weasley – just to name a few.

What Will The Harry Potter TV Series Be About?

Since the release of Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 nearly 13 years ago, the Harry Potter universe has expanded to include the Fantastic Beasts franchise, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway and the Hogwarts Legacy video game. 

Unlike these additions to the Potterverse, the TV series is set to closely follow the books—and more specifically, one book per season. 

When the reboot was first announced by Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav in April 2023, he explained that the Harry Potter TV series would be as faithful to the original books as possible.

“The stories from each of Rowling’s Harry Potter books will become a decade-long series produced with the same epic craft, love and care this global franchise is known for,” Zaslav confirmed.

Recent comments from showrunners Mylod and Gardiner doubled down on the promise, revealing their own love for the Potterverse.

“We have 8 hours to tell the first book”, the pair revealed, “so we can dig into the real depths and crevices and how the language of magic can evolve.”

“We follow the ethos of the films to source some of the finest cream of British talent,” Mark added.

As for their commitment to reinstating some noticeable character absences from the films, the pair hinted at their plans to include the beloved poltergeist Peeves.

“We’ll get to have some fun with Peeves in the corridors!”

The pair also hinted at whether fans could expect to revisit the film’s iconic locations, agreeing that they “don’t want to mess with the likes of the Great Hall,” before revealing they plan to expand the depiction of Hogwarts entirely.

“We went with the idea that Hogwarts is a real place,” Mylod explained.

“So there will be elements of Georgian architecture, attempts at naturalism. Because, of course, we have the luxury of long-form storytelling.”

“We’re both massively fond of the movies, they’re amazing, what an amazing feat of creative pursuits,” Gardiner agreed, before expressing her excitement at the possibilities of the extended format. “We get a bigger sandpit to play in.”

When Will The Harry Potter TV Series Be Released? 

With production scheduled to begin this summer (UK time), meaning June/July 2025 for us southern hemisphere folk, we’re looking at a likely premiere of sometime between late 2026 and early 2027.

The HBO original production will premier on Max, and while the prestige streamer isn’t currently available in the Australian market, we have official confirmation that it will be launching here on March 31, 2025.

While a television series would presumably be able to dedicate more time to each of the seven books, it remains to be seen if Harry Potter movie fans are ready for a reboot of their beloved series. 

For many fans, who grew up with Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson as the series’ trio, it might be hard to imagine anyone else taking on their iconic roles. 

However, it does mean a new generation of young Harry Potter fans will have their own trio to identify with, and enjoy the magic of.

Will JK Rowling Be Involved? 

Yes, JK Rowling is the confirmed executive producer of the television series. 

The author has stated, “Max’s commitment to preserving the integrity of my books is important to me, and I’m looking forward to being part of this new adaptation which will allow for a degree of depth and detail only afforded by a long-form television series.”

In recent years, Rowling, has generated controversy with her ongoing exclusionary comments about the trans community. The author was absent from the 20 year anniversary special of the Harry Potter films and there have been fierce boycotts of the Hogwarts Legacy game as a result.

Rowling has often repeated discredited claims about gender-affirming care and trans identities, describing hormone therapy as “conversion therapy” and arguing that trans women pose risks to women’s safety – views widely condemned by medical experts and LGBTQ+ advocates alike. 

Most recently, the author’s response to a UK Supreme Court ruling that excluded transgender women under the Equality Act provoked a swift backlash. Notably from celebrities such as Pedro Pascal, Bowen Yang, and Bridgerton actress and advocate, Nicola Coughlan, who launched a fundraiser for trans charity Not A Phase in response.

“Keep your new Harry Potter lads,” she added. “Wouldn’t touch it with a ten-foot pole,” the actress shared at the time.

Related articles:

• The ‘Harry Potter’ Cast Are Revealing Their Co-Star Crushes And Daniel Radcliffe’s Is Truly Surprising
• Four Major Controversies That Have Shaped Public Perception Of JK Rowling
• In Case You Needed Reminding, Harry Potter Fans Are Better People

The post The ‘Harry Potter’ TV Series Just Cast Its Lead Trio appeared first on marie claire.

As white smoke billowed from the chimney in the Sistine Chapel signalling the end of the conclave, thousands of onlookers gathered in front of St. Peter’s Basilica to celebrate the new pope.

While many considered Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost to be a leading candidate during the conclave, as a dual American-Peruvian citizen, the outcome wasn’t exactly expected.

In his first address as Pope, he spoke in Italian and Spanish calling “Peace be with you all” as onlookers erupted in cheers. He continued by praising his predecessor, Pope Francis, with words of remembrance: “We still keep in our ears that weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis blessing Rome.”

“The pope who blessed Rome gave his blessing to the world, to the whole world that morning on Easter Sunday. Allow me to follow up on that same blessing: God loves us. God loves you all and evil will not prevail.”

So who exactly is Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome? Below, a brief explainer on the first US-born pontiff to emerge from the conclave as Pope.

Who is Pope Leo XIV?

Pope Leo XIV, 69, was born Robert Francis Prevost in 1955 in Chicago, Illinois. A member of the Order of Saint Augustine, his path to the papacy has been anything but conventional. After entering religious life, he spent over a decade in Peru, where he served as a missionary and eventually as the bishop of Chiclayo. His deep ties to Latin America and fluency in both Spanish and English made him a prominent figure in cross-cultural ministry.

A Rising Star in Vatican Leadership

In 2023, Prevost was appointed archbishop by Pope Francis, as well as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in Latin America – a powerful role within the Vatican that oversees the appointment of bishops across the globe. It was a major vote of confidence and placed him at the epicentre of Church governance. His administrative skill, global experience, and reputation for humility made him a popular choice among cardinals seeking continuity with Pope Francis’s pastoral style.

Aside from being the first American to hold the papal office, Pope Leo XIV is also the first Augustinian to be elected pope. His international background and religious order set him apart from many of his predecessors and suggest a broader, more globalised vision for the future of Catholicism.

Why Did He Choose The Name Leo XIV?

Upon his election, Prevost chose the name Pope Leo XIV, likely in homage to Pope Leo XIII, who was known for embracing modern ideas and advocating for a push towards modernity when it came to the role of science and politics in the church in the late 19th century. It’s a name that signals an intention to build on Pope Francis’s legacy of social justice, inclusion, and dialogue – which are values that continue to shape the Church in the 21st century.

What Are His Views?

Reactions to Pope Leo XIV’s appointment have been largely positive, with many Catholics welcoming his calm leadership style and progressive outlook. His election also represents a symbolic shift towards a Church increasingly attuned to its global congregation and no longer centred solely on Europe.

His views are thought to be aligned with his predecessor’s in respect to migrants, poverty and particularly – the environment.

Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation, said of the appointment: “Pope Francis was a fundamental leader on climate change. His actions and teachings had a very positive impact on our ability to negotiate the Paris Agreement in 2015. But the 10 years since the launch of Laudato Si have also been the hottest 10 years on record.”

Adding: “I hope Pope Leo XIV will be the inspirational leader for the peace and solidarity we need in these troubled times, and expand the Catholic Church’s efforts to address the climate crisis, energising followers, governments, and leaders around the world to unite and protect life in our wonderful Planet.”

As he begins his tenure, millions will be watching closely to see how he balances tradition with reform—and whether the American-born pope can usher in a new era of unity for the Catholic Church.

Related articles:

• How Is The Pope Elected?
• Why Everyone Is Suddenly Talking About ‘Conclave’
• The Fictional Priests That Make Us Hot Under The (Clerical) Collar

The post Who Is Pope Leo? The First American Pontiff In Catholic History appeared first on marie claire.

In a series of posts made to Maehashi’s RecipeTin Eats Instagram, the popular recipe creator and cook revealed that she’d brought the allegations against Bellamy’s publishing house, Penguin Australia, outlining her reason for doing so.

Since the Tuesday night post, Bellamy has responded by denying the claims made, and posting a series of Instagram stories of her own.

So what exactly is going on between RecipeTin Eats and Brooki Bakehouse’s Brooke Bellamy? Below, the ongoing legal drama, explained.

What Plagiarism Claims Have Been Made By RecipeTin Eats?

In a statement released on Tuesday 29 April, Nagi Maehashi revealed that she had brought copyright infringement allegations against Penguin Random House Australia, claiming two recipes in Bellamy’s bestselling cookbook Bake With Brooki were plagiarised from the RecipeTin Eats website.

Sharing the update on social media, Maehashi posted a series of side-by-side pictures of the Baklava and Caramel Slice recipes in question.

“When you see your recipes in a $4 million book,” the post begins.

“I’m no stranger to seeing my recipes being copied online,” it reads. “But seeing what I believe to be my recipes and my words printed in a multi-million dollar book launched with a huge publicity campaign from one of Australia’s biggest publishers was shocking.”

“I invite you to review comparisons of my recipes in question (swipe) and form your own view,” she continued, before adding: “To me, the similarities are so specific and detailed that calling these a coincidence feels disingenuous.”

Maehashi included comparisons between her recipes for Baklava and Caramel Slice (above) as well as the methods and instructions, claiming: “To me, the similarities speak for themselves.”

Further to the claims made about her own recipes, Maehashi said she believed Bellamy’s cookbook featured additional recipes copied from other authors.

“One particular recipe by a very well known beloved cookbook author bears similarities so detailed, extensive, and specific that, in my view, dismissing it as a coincidence would be absurd,” she wrote, before stopping short of naming the authors in question “out of respect for and at the request of the publisher.”

How Has Brooke Bellamy Responded?

In a lengthy statement shared to the Brooki Bakehouse Instagram, Bellamy denied the allegations, claiming the recipes used were her own.

“I did not plagiarise any recipes in my book which consists of 100 recipes I have created over many years,” she wrote.

“In 2016, I opened my first bakery. I have been creating my recipes and selling them commercially since October 2016 – as shown in the next slide and as was communicated at the first point of contact I received.”

“On March 2020, RecipeTin Eats published a recipe for caramel slice. It uses the same ingredients as my recipe, which I have been making and selling since four years prior.”

Bellamy went on to share a picture dated 8 December 2016, which shows a table topped with an array of baked goods, including what appears to be a caramel slice, under the account @charliesdesserthouse.

“I immediately offered to remove both recipes from future reprints to prevent further aggravation, which was communicated to Nagi swiftly through discussions,” the post continued.

“I have great respect for Nagi and what she has done in recent years for cooks, content creators and cookbooks in Australia – especially as a fellow female entrepreneur.”

Bellamy wrote about the reality of recipe development in the current industry landscape, particularly when it comes to community inspiration.

“This willingness to share recipes and build on what has come before is what I love so much about baking and sharing recipes – the community that surrounds it.”

How Has Penguin Random House Responded?

In a detailed statement published by Maehashi on the RecipeTin Eats website, she explained that Penguin has denied the allegations with a legal response of their own.

“Our client respectfully rejects your clients’ allegations and confirms that the recipes in the BWB Book were written by Brooke Bellamy.”

She also revealed that her legal team had requested for the book to be withdrawn from sale and any future reprints to be properly attributed – or have the recipes in question omitted entirely.

“Penguin – You are a top tier publisher that is supposed to value and protect original content, and uphold the integrity of the publishing industry,” Maehashi wrote in the closing paragraphs of her statement. “But to me, the way you have handled this matter has shown a disregard for the very principles you claim to stand for.”

A Second Baker Comes Forward

Hours after the RecipeTin Eats Brooke Bellamy news came to light, a US-based baker by the name of Sally McKenney threw her support behind Maehashi and shared her own copyright infringement claims against Bellamy.

In an Instagram story, the cookbook author tagged RecipeTin Eats and wrote “Nagi, you know how much I admire and support you – and I’m so grateful you let me know months ago that one of my recipes (The Best Vanilla Cake I’ve Ever Had, published by me in 2019) was also plagiarized in this book and also appears on the author’s YouTube channel.”

The post mirrored Maehashi’s own sentiment, adding: “Original recipe creators who put in the work to develop and test recipes deserve credit – especially in a best-selling cookbook.”

At the time of writing, neither Penguin Random House or Brooke Bellamy has responded to the claims made by McKenney, but the ethics of alleged plagiarism remains a point of contention amid the ongoing conversations.

“I’m speaking up today because staying silent only protects their behaviour which, even if not a technical breach of copyright, I think is unacceptable and unethical,” reiterated Maehashi.

“And to me, this isn’t just about plagiarism. I’ve written two cookbooks. I know what it takes. Every sentence, every photo, every recipe, the sleepless nights, putting your heart and soul into every page,” she continued.

“So when someone comes along and puts out a book, cutting corners? That’s not just disrespectful. It’s a kick in the guts of every author who actually puts in the hard yards to create original work.”

As of today, Maehashi has switched off comments on her original RecipeTin Eats post about Brooke Bellamy and the recipes found in her cookbook, citing concern for further legal action being brought against her.

Updates to come.

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Virginia Roberts Giuffre, one of the most outspoken and courageous voices in the fight against sex trafficking and abuse, has died by suicide at her farm in Neergabby, Western Australia. She was 41 years old. 

In 2020, Giuffre was honoured as one of Marie Claire’s Women of the Year for her tireless advocacy on behalf of survivors and her fearless pursuit of justice against some of the world’s most powerful men. Her recognition underscored her role as a symbol of resistance and hope for countless victims of sexual exploitation. 

2020 was also the year Ghislaine Maxwell – Epstein’s longtime confidante – was arrested. For Giuffre, it was a turning point in her campaign for justice. “2020 will forever mark the year that Ghislaine Maxwell was arrested for her alleged involvement in convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s rampant abuse of young women and girls,” she told marie claire at the time. “It was Maxwell who lured girls into the US billionaire’s world – and I was one of them.” 

The former British socialite’s arrest on July 2 was intensely emotional for Giuffre. “In the months after Epstein died last year, I kept waiting to hear that Ghislaine had been taken into custody, denied bail and locked away for her heinous crimes against children,” she told Marie Claire from her home in Cairns. “When it happened, you can’t imagine the tears of joy pouring down my face. That was the best day of my year.” 

In a statement released by her family, attorney Sigrid McCawley, and publicist Dini von Mueffling, they wrote: “It is with utterly broken hearts that we announce that Virginia passed away last night at her farm in Western Australia. She lost her life to suicide, after being a lifelong victim of sexual abuse and sex trafficking.” 

“Virginia was a fierce warrior in the fight against sexual abuse and sex trafficking. She was the light that lifted so many survivors… She will be missed beyond measure.” 

Her death comes as a crushing loss for the many survivors she empowered and inspired. It is also a devastating reminder of the lingering toll that trauma can exact, even years after justice has begun to be served. 

A Voice That Couldn’t Be Silenced 

Brave doesn’t even begin to describe the mother of three, whose tireless fight against sex trafficking and child sex abuse began nearly a decade before her death. Giuffre had publicly accused Epstein and Maxwell of grooming and trafficking her to a circle of influential men, including Prince Andrew, when she was just 17. In 2022, the Duke of York paid a reported multimillion-dollar settlement to Giuffre in a civil case that rocked the British royal family – though he did not admit any wrongdoing. 

“At times it has been truly frightening speaking up – particularly as a wife and mother concerned about her family,” said Giuffre. “I’ve had death threats. I know the people I’m speaking out against have limitless power and money – Epstein and Maxwell wielded immense power and often let me know that they would never go to jail. But if I had stayed silent, they would still be running one of the most prolific sex trafficking rings of modern times.” 

Yet she refused to be censored. Her courage was further documented in the Netflix series Filthy Rich, where she spoke openly about her experiences. She also founded the non-profit organisation Victims Refuse Silence to support survivors of trafficking and abuse. 

“This doesn’t end with Epstein’s death and Maxwell’s incarceration,” she insisted. “The fight is far from over, and we must continue to speak out for the voiceless. I want all survivors to know that it is not their shame to carry any longer, and it never was.” 

Back in 2020, Giuffre remained confident that justice would continue to be served. “I believe the truth has a way of coming to light, exposing the ugly realities of what happened. It’s just a matter of time, and time is on my side,” she said. 

A Devastating Crash Weeks Before Her Death 

Just three weeks before her death, Giuffre posted a harrowing update to Instagram describing a near-fatal car accident. In the post, she revealed that her vehicle had been struck by a school bus traveling at 110 km/h as she was slowing for a turn. 

“This year has been the worst start to a new year, but I won’t bore anyone with the details,” she wrote. “But I think it important to note that when a school bus driver comes at you driving 110km as we were slowing for a turn that no matter what your car is made of it might as well be a tin can.” 

She shared that the crash had left her in kidney renal failure and that she had been given just four days to live. “I’m ready to go, just not until I see my babies one last time,” she added.  

The post, now viewed in tragic hindsight, reveals the physical and emotional strain she had been enduring in her final weeks. 

Survivor, Mother, Fighter 

Her words and actions brought hope to survivors around the world, offering proof that it was possible to fight back – even against the most powerful. Her courage helped shift the global conversation around sexual violence, consent, and the abuse of power. 

Giuffre’s children – Christian, Noah, and Emily – were the light of her life, according to her family. “It was when she held her newborn daughter in her arms that Virginia realised she had to fight back against those who had abused her and so many others,” their statement reads. 

She spent years balancing motherhood with activism, often working behind the scenes to help others tell their stories, seek legal advice, or find the strength to report what had happened to them. 

The Toll of Trauma 

But while her strength seemed boundless, the emotional weight of her trauma eventually became too much to carry.  “In the end, the toll of abuse is so heavy that it became unbearable for Virginia to handle its weight,” her family wrote. “We know that she is with the angels.” 

Her passing has triggered an outpouring of grief from fellow advocates and survivors across the world, many of whom credit Giuffre with giving them the strength to come forward. 

Virginia Giuffre’s legacy will live on in the millions of women and men she empowered to speak up, to fight back, and to demand justice.  

If You Need Help

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14.

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It gets better – Leary has shattered her own world record at the Australian Open Swimming Championships.

Breaking Barriers at the Australian Open Championships

Leary powered through the heats of the women’s 100m freestyle, setting an incredible time of 59.22 seconds – breaking her previous world record of 59.53, set just months earlier at the Paralympic Games in Paris. “We’ll do it again in the final!” she said.

“Honestly, I felt so good… I was like, just so confident on this one. I know all the hard work I’ve been doing since the Paris Games, and I was like, come on! You got to bring something home!”

Leary’s victory is not just about the gold medals or the world records. It’s about the journey. It’s about every step she took to get back in the pool after her accident, every moment of self-doubt she overcame, and every person she inspired along the way.

“I want to inspire people to move their bodies for those who can’t,” she says.

The post Doctors Said Alexa Leary Would Never Walk or Talk Again – Now She’s Broken Another Record at Australian Open Swimming Championships appeared first on marie claire.

The public estrangement between Australian pop star Vanessa Amorosi and her mother, Joyleen Robinson, is case in point. Once close, often described as “best friends,” the pair’s relationship has deteriorated, allegedly largely due to personal misunderstandings, differing perspectives on finances, and the weight of external pressures. What began as a family dispute over money and career decisions soon spiraled into a bitter legal battle.  

In 2024, a court ruling affirmed Amorosi’s ownership of certain properties, but it also mandated that she make a significant financial settlement to Robinson. Though the legal dispute appears resolved on paper, the emotional divide remains wide, with no signs of reconciliation. Robinson, in a tear-filled television interview, shared the pain of losing her daughter not only to the court system but to a breakdown in their once inseparable bond. “I do love my house,” Robinson said during her appearance on A Current Affair this week. “But I love my daughter more.” 

When Teenage Tension Moves Into Adulthood 

Psychologists have long noted that relationships between mothers and daughters can be especially charged, particularly during the adolescent years. This phase of life is marked by the daughter’s search for independence, often clashing with a mother’s desire to guide and protect. This can lead to intense emotional turbulence, where love, expectations, and conflict intertwine, and the push-pull dynamic remains unresolved. 

A Family Fractured by Fame and Finances 

In a deeply emotional interview, Robinson recalled the agony of having not spoken to her daughter in over a decade. Robinson also revealed that she has never met her grandson, Killian, who was born to Amorosi in 2016.  

Robinson’s version of events suggests that external pressures, including the health crisis she believes her daughter faced, may have influenced the rift. While Robinson has steadfastly denied any wrongdoing in the management of her daughter’s career, she has expressed a deep longing for reconciliation, pleading, “Come home and join the family again.” 

Inside the Legal Showdown 

The legal battle over the properties has been closely followed, though it has done little to heal the wounds of the family. Amorosi’s legal team argued that her success in the music industry and the financial contributions she made towards purchasing the properties entitle her to sole ownership. On the other hand, Robinson’s claims centered around the idea that the homes had been intended for her and that there had been informal agreements in place. However, the court ultimately ruled in Amorosi’s favour, dismissing Robinson’s claims of ownership. While the legal aspects were settled, the emotional complexities remained unresolved. Another case of how money and fame can destroy family relationships. 

Remember Britney and Lynne? 

All sounds a little too familiar? The public feud between Britney Spears and her mother, Lynne Spears, is another heartbreaking example of maternal estrangement caused by fame and money. In her memoir The Woman in Me, Britney opened up about feeling deeply betrayed by her mother, particularly after Lynne published Through the Storm, a book that chronicled Britney’s tumultuous 2007 breakdown. The timing of the book’s release, according to Britney, felt like an exploitation of her personal suffering for public profit. 

Things took a darker turn when Britney revealed that she believes her mother was complicit in the creation of the conservatorship that controlled her life for over a decade. In a since-deleted video, Britney claimed that her mother helped orchestrate the arrangement, something she found more painful than the actions of her father, Jamie Spears. “Why weren’t they outside my doorstep, saying, ‘Baby girl, get in the car. Let’s go’?” she asked.  

What’s Next For Amorosi And Her Mum? 

Despite the court ruling, the emotional path to healing remains uncertain for both Amorosi and Robinson. The question of whether reconciliation is possible remains unanswered, but the story of their fractured relationship serves as a reminder that sadly, fame and money can complicate even the closest of families.  

The post From Best Friends to Courtroom Rivals: The Tragic Breakdown Between Vanessa Amorosi and Her Mum appeared first on marie claire.

Kanye West, now known simply as Ye, is no stranger to controversy – but his latest lyrical revelations have pushed boundaries even further, forcing fans and critics alike to grapple with uncomfortable questions about trauma, art, and accountability. 

A Childhood Confession in “Cousins“

In a newly surfaced track snippet titled “Cousins,” Ye appears to lay bare a traumatic chapter from his childhood involving a cousin who is now serving life in prison. The lyrics, delivered with Ye’s signature intensity, reference explicit childhood experiences and alleged sexual encounters between the two: “That’s when I gave my cousin head / I told my cousin not to tell nobody.” He adds that his cousin would later go on to kill a pregnant woman – an event Ye chillingly frames as somehow connected to their early experiences. 

On social media, Ye doubled down, posting a now-viral tweet: “My name is Ye and I sucked my cousin’s dick till I was 14. Tweet sent.” The tweet, like many of Ye’s unfiltered online declarations, left many asking: is this a genuine confession or just pure shock value meant to stir attention? 

Raw Honesty or Recklessness?

Either way, the reaction was swift and polarised. Some praised Ye’s brutal honesty, suggesting his openness about taboo trauma could spark long-overdue conversations around childhood sexual abuse and how early exposure to adult content can impact development. Others criticised him for what they perceived as weaponising personal trauma for performance. 

This isn’t the first time Ye has used his platform to blur the lines between diary entry and public performance. His artistry has always lived in the tension between vulnerability and spectacle. Whether discussing his bipolar diagnosis, his tumultuous relationships, or his political affiliations, Ye has made a career out of discomfort – both his own and ours.

Why “Cousins” Feels Different

But with “Cousins,” there’s an added layer of complexity. These aren’t just shocking bars. They’re revelations involving family, childhood sexuality, and violence. Ye’s choice to share them in a song, rather than a structured interview or therapeutic setting, raises ethical questions about how celebrity confessionals function in a digital era. 

Ye has made one thing clear: he’s not done provoking.

The post Unpacking Kanye West’s Controversial New Lyrics: What’s Real, What’s Performance, and Why It Matters appeared first on marie claire.

Yes, you read that right.

During an interview on CBS Mornings this week, the 63-year-old Oscar winner reaffirmed a bold claim he first made years ago: that he and Amal, 47, have never fought. “We still haven’t,” Clooney told anchor Gayle King. “We’re trying to find something to fight about.”

Timing Is Everything – Especially in Love

So, what’s the secret to a decade-long Hollywood marriage with zero conflict? For Clooney, it all comes down to timing – and gratitude.

“I think because I started so late with Amal,” he explained. The couple tied the knot in 2014, when Clooney was already in his 50s and Amal, a celebrated human rights attorney, was at the height of her legal career. Their late-in-life love story, Clooney suggests, gave them both a unique perspective on what really matters – and how to let the small stuff slide.

‘I Hit the Jackpot’

But perhaps the real secret ingredient? Unfiltered appreciation.

“I feel so extraordinarily lucky to have met this incredible woman,” Clooney said. “And I feel as if I hit the jackpot. There isn’t a day that goes by where I don’t think I’m the luckiest man in the world.”

That same energy carries through their life in New York City, where the couple is currently based with their seven-year-old twins, Alexander and Ella. “They’ve got a school that they like and are having fun at,” Clooney shared. “Amal and I are having a really great time in life… Our kids are really curious and funny. They make us laugh.”

Broadway, Academia, and Parenthood

While Clooney balances school drop-offs with his return to Broadway – starring in Good Night, and Good Luck at the Winter Garden Theatre – Amal, recently appointed to an academic position at Columbia University, is also thriving in her career. Despite their busy schedules, a source close to the couple told Us Weekly the Clooneys are “loving being in NYC” and making time to see old friends and explore the city together.

Amal, notably, skipped the official opening night of Clooney’s Broadway play to stay home with the twins – something George noted without a hint of complaint. If anything, it was another example of how the couple navigates their high-profile lives with respect, trust, and a shared sense of humour.

Even George’s newly dyed dark hair for his stage role has become a family joke. “They laugh at it,” he said of his kids. “Nothing makes you look older than being 63 and dyeing your hair.”

The Clooneys’ love story may not be loud, but it is undeniably rare. No fights. No scandals. Just mutual respect and late-night laughter. Couple goals right here.

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The ruling marked the end of a nearly seven-year legal fight, spearheaded by the anti-trans group For Women Scotland – an organisation backed financially by JK. Rowling. 

The billionaire Harry Potter author, long vocal in her views opposing trans rights, wasted no time celebrating. Shortly after the ruling, Rowling posted a photo of herself lounging by the sea, cigar in one hand, drink in the other, with the caption: “I love it when a plan comes together. #SupremeCourt #WomensRights.” 

It wasn’t just the cigar photo that raised eyebrows – it was the years of rhetoric behind it. Rowling has often repeated discredited claims about gender-affirming care and trans identities, describing hormone therapy as “conversion therapy” and arguing that trans women pose risks to women’s safety – views widely condemned by medical experts and LGBTQ+ advocates alike. 

Her supporters used the ruling as an opportunity to call for public apologies to Rowling and other women who they say were “cancelled” for challenging trans rights. But critics pushed back. 

Celebrity Backlash Rolls In 

Comedian and SNL cast member Bowen Yang made his position crystal clear, sharing a selfie on Instagram giving Rowling the middle finger, accompanied by a trans pride flag and the words: “absolute f*** u to JK Rowling.” 

Meanwhile, Bridgerton and Derry Girls star Nicola Coughlan posted a heartfelt video to her fans expressing deep concern over the ruling. “To see people celebrating this is just stomach-churning and disgusting,” she said. Coughlan also launched a fundraiser for trans charity Not A Phase. She pledged to match the total herself. 

“Keep your new Harry Potter lads,” she added. “Wouldn’t touch it with a ten-foot pole.” 

Fellow Bridgerton alum Charithra Chandran added her voice on TikTok: “I’ve never felt unsafe around a trans woman. My womanhood has never felt threatened. Honestly, loser behaviour.” 

An old fight, a new moment

While Rowling has often claimed she’s been “cancelled,” her cultural influence remains powerful. She’s continued to publish bestselling books and launch new Potter-related projects. But the backlash to her latest victory lap reveals a deep cultural divide – and a growing wave of resistance. 

For critics and allies of the trans community, this isn’t just about one ruling – it’s about the message it sends, and the lives it impacts. And while Rowling may be celebrating, others are organising, donating, and speaking up louder than ever before. 

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In a post to her own social media channel alongside a picture of herself in hospital, Giuffre wrote “This year has been the worst start to a new year, but I won’t bore anyone with the details but I think it important to note that when a school bus driver comes at you driving 110km as we were slowing for a turn that no matter what your car is made of it might as well be a tin can.”

“I’ve gone into kidney renal failure, they’ve given me four days to live, transferring me to a specialist hospital in urology. I’m ready to go, just not until I see my babies one last time, but you know what they say about wishes.” the post continued.

“S**T in one hand and wish in the other & I guarantee it’s still going to be s**t at the end of the day. Thank you all for being the wonderful people of the world and for being a great part of my life. Godbless you all xx Virginia,” she added.

In a statement shared with The Guardian, representatives for Giuffre passed on her appreciation for all the support she’s been offered since her diagnosis, explaining that she’d “been in a serious accident and is receiving medical care in the hospital.”

“She greatly appreciates the support and well wishes people are sending.”

Giuffre became a household name after her incredible bravery in speaking out about the abuse she suffered at the hands of Jeffrey Epstein. Later, in 2021, she filed a civil lawsuit against Prince Andrew with allegations of sexual assault. Within the same lawsuit, Giuffre claimed that Epstein and his partner Ghislaine Maxwell had forced her to have sex with Prince Andrew – who has always denied the accusations. The pair agreed to an out-of-court settlement in 2022, while Maxwell was found guilty of crimes relating to the sex trafficking of young girls and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

The mother of three, whose tireless fight against sex trafficking and child sex abuse, has remained just part of her brave story, was named as one of the incredible marie claire Women of the Year in 2020.

“At times it has been truly frightening speaking up—particularly as a wife and mother concerned about her family,” admited Giuffre at the time. “I’ve had death threats. I know the people I’m speaking out against have limitless power and money—Epstein and Maxwell wielded immense power and often let me know that they would never go to jail. But if I had stayed silent, they would still be running one of the most prolific sex trafficking rings of modern times.”

“The fight is far from over, and we must continue to speak out for the voiceless. I want all survivors to know that it is not their shame to carry any longer, and it never was.”

Updates to come.

Related articles:

• Virginia Giuffre Files A Lawsuit Against Prince Andrew Over Alleged Sexual Assault
• Why Would Prince Andrew’s Accuser Make It Up?
• What Happened To Ghislaine Maxwell’s Victims?

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It revealed that Plaza, 40, and Baena, 47, had been separated since September 2024, when the actress moved to New York.

A month after relocating to the east coast, Baena reportedly made “concerning remarks” to the actress, which “prompted her to call a friend to perform a welfare check on her husband.”

Further details outlined in the documents state that Baena had been attending therapy in the months leading up to his death after “experiencing recent marital difficulties.”

Baena had messaged Plaza at 10.36am, making it the last communication received by the actress before her husband’s unexpected passing. According to the medical examiner’s report, the director was found by his dogwalker at his Los Angeles home, where he was declared dead at the scene.

The sudden loss was first reported by TMZ on January 4, 2024, after news of his passing made headlines around the world.

Aubrey Plaza and Jeff Baena were together for over a decade before his untimely death, marrying in celebration of their 10 year anniversary during lockdown.

The couple tied the knot at home, in what Plaza described as a “witchy affair” in an interview with Ellen DeGenerous after lockdown ended:

“I created a very quick love altar in our yard. Facts of our love, little stones, smoke, fire. Things of that nature,” she told host DeGeneres.

“Then the man from Alhambra showed up in a Hawaiian shirt with a briefcase [to perform the ceremony]. … I can’t remember a lot of it, it was fuzzy. But I’m pretty sure it’s legal.”

In an interview with People, Aubrey Plaza spoke about her directorial debut and collaboration with husband Jeff Baena on the 2022 series Cinema Toast.

“Our house became this strange post-production facility and he’s downstairs on his Zooms or on his sessions and I’m upstairs editing, we’re just going back and forth,” Plaza said. “Yeah, it was very us. We were not baking sourdough bread, but we were sifting through hours of old movies and footage and re-cutting them together and just letting our minds go on a trip. So it was great.”

Jeff Baena was best known for his directorial debut, Life After Beth (2014), critically-acclaimed The Little Hours (2017), and co-writing I Heart Huckabees (2004), which was nominated for the 2004 Gotham Award for Best Feature.

Under a tribute shared by comedian and actor Adam Pally that read: “My heart breaks for my friend Aubrey and the Baena family and for all of us who spent time on his sets or at his house or in… his orbit. Thanks for believing in me Jeff, may your memory be a blessing,” Jeff Baena’s brother Brad responded with a gut-wrenching “I am broken”.

Aubrey Plaza has since issued a statement on behalf of the members of the Baena and Stern families, thanking everyone for their ongoing support.

“This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support,” reads the joint statement.

“Please respect our privacy during this time.”

Aubrey Plaza Honours Late Husband’s Death

Aubrey Plaza chose to honour her late husband’s death in the most fitting way, during her unexpected appearance at Saturday Night Live’s 50th Anniversary celebration.

Appearing for the first time since news of Baena’s passing broke, the actress chose a simple black suit ensemble to mark the occasion. But it was more about what was under the suit that grabbed the most attention.

Unremarkable as it first appeared, it was later revealed that Plaza’s choice to pair a tie-dye t shirt with the suit was a significant statement.

Speaking about their lock down wedding a 2021 interview with Drew Barrymore, Plaza explained how Baena had “got really into tie-dyeing during the quarantine,” leading the pair to forgo traditional wedding attire for matching tie-dye pajamas “that he made for us.”

The special detail was a touching moment of tribute that conveyed more than any words possibly could.

If you require mental health support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or chat online or call Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 or chat online: Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or chat online. If you require immediate assistance, please call 000.

The post Heartbreaking New Details On The Death Of Aubrey Plaza’s Husband Emerge appeared first on marie claire.

The disgraced radio personality had previously entered a not-guilty plea for the existing 34 indecent assault charges, before a new allegation from an 11th victim was added.

According to court documents released by the NSW local criminal court and published in The Guardian, the alleged “assault with act of indecency” occurred in June 2013 and was confirmed as an additional charge by detectives from the NSW Police child abuse squad on Friday 7 March, 2025.

Jones’s arrest in November came after a nine-month investigation into allegations conducted by detectives from Strike Force Bonnefin – run by the State Crime Command’s child abuse squad.

The special strike force was formed after The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age published findings from an in depth investigation that revealed multiple claims of inappropriate behaviour spanning 60 years.

The controversial broadcaster was served with an arrest warrant at 7.45am on Monday 18th of November, 2024 and removed from his luxury Circular Quay apartment and taken to Sydney City police station, according to reports.

At the time of the Herald’s initial reporting, Alan Jones denied all allegations and threatened to sue the masthead. Jones’ lawyer Mark O’Brien responded to the allegations by claiming that his client was the victim of a premeditated character assassination. “Over many years, certain journalists employed by Nine (formerly Fairfax) newspapers have been resentful of our client’s prominence as a commentator on many political and cultural issues, and the malicious and concocted allegations giving rise to the imputations constitute a concerted attempt to destroy our client’s reputation.”

What Has Alan Jones Been Charged With?

Alan Jones was initially charged with 24 offences against eight alleged victims, as outlined in an address to media by Assistant Commissioner Michael Fitzgerald.

The offences include 11 charges of aggravated indecent assault where the victim was under the authority of the offender, nine charges related to assault with act of indecency; two charges of common assault, and two charges of sexual touching. Amongst the charges are allegations that he kissed, fondled genitals and stroked the thighs of nine victims.

Speaking on the afternoon of the arrest, Fitzgerald revealed that “Police will allege the events took place between 2001 and 2019, involving eight victims. The youngest of those victims was a 17-year-old at the time when the alleged offence took place.”

“I wish to commend the investigators of Strike Force Bonnefin [for] their tenacity and hard work … Historical matters such as this are incredibly hard to investigate,” Assistant Commissioner Michael Fitzgerald said.

He continued, “The reports in the Herald and The Age did result in victims coming forward and the creation of Strike Force Bonnefin but this information, and a number of witnesses, have been assisting police over the years.”

It is suggested that Jones used his position of power to leverage his relationship with young men. Jones is a former teacher and rugby union coach who became a powerful and controversial figure in Australian media. He announced his retirement from radio station 2GB in May 2020.

Jones has since pleaded not-guilty, telling reporters following his first court appearance “I have never indecently assaulted these people. The law assumed that I’m not guilty. And I am not guilty.”

He is currently facing a total of 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault, 12 counts of assault with act of indecency, two counts of sexually touching another person without consent and two counts of common assault.

A Timeline Of Allegations Against Alan Jones

According to a major investigation into Alan Jones and the allegations against him, investigative reporter at The Sydney Morning Herald, Kate McClymont AM, has uncovered a decades-long timeline of alleged assault, harassment, and intimidation.

The investigation, published in The Sydney Morning Herald in December 2023, detailed allegations of five men who each claim they were the victim of indecent assault or a gross misuse of power at the hands of Jones.

Jones denies all allegations.

Brisbane Grammar Student – 1965

According to reports by The Sydney Morning Herald, a then-23-year-old Alan Jones, was alleged to have put his hands down the pants of a student at Brisbane Grammar School.

Jones, who was teaching English and coaching cricket at the school, allegedly held the child’s testicles for “maybe 30 seconds to a minute”.

At the time, the student said that he was hit in the groin by a cricket ball.  

Arrest For Public Indecency – 1988

In 1988 Jones was arrested in London at the public toilets in Soho – one of the city’s most well-known gay beats.

The broadcaster was charged with “outraging public decency” and “committing an indecent act”, but all charges against him were swiftly dropped.

Allegations of Assault From Alex Hartman – Mid 1990s

Alex Hartman, the late Australian tech businessman and protégé of Jones, told the Herald in 2017 that he was indecently assaulted by Jones as a young man.

In 1997, aged 17, the year 11 student, became a prominent figure in the Australian business industry after selling his software company to Telstra for a reported $1 million.

Over the years, Hartman confided in numerous journalists and friends about the indecent assault he was subjected to at the hands of Jones.

Hartman alleged that following his rise in public profile, Jones invited Hartman to his then-Newtown home for dinner, where records indicate that broadcaster allegedly assaulted the boy, who was left “terrified, scared, in shock and did not know how to get out,” according to the Herald investigation.

He also alleged that on another occasion where he was invited over to dinner, that Jones opened the door and exposed himself.

Notes referred to in the article allege that Jones’ behaviour was criminal and left the businessman with significant trauma.

After Hartman’s untimely death at the age of 39 in 2019, one of his friends from St Ignatius’ College Riverview, confirmed to the Herald that Hartman had confided in them about the alleged assault, which left Hartman “shocked and traumatised”.

When asked if he would take his case to the police, Hartman reportedly replied saying that Jones “was too powerful”.

Before his death, Hartman reportedly told four journalists that “I was his prey … I know I am not the only one, and this will come out somehow.”

Jones responded to the masthead’s questions at the time of the investigation with “vehement” denials of all allegations, adding that Hartman was “a person who had a history of engaging in dishonest conduct”.

Allegations from Marcus Schmidt – 2001

Marcus Schmidt was 26 years old when he alleges Jones groped his penis while driving.

Schmidt, who reached out to Jones for advice after being bullied over his sexuality in his teens, thought that he would find a kindred spirit in the broadcaster.

After agreeing to meet with Schmidt for dinner, Jones allegedly insisted that Schmidt drive Jones’ car to the restaurant. “The car ride was a bit outrageous,” he recalled, alleging that Jones “put his hand in my lap” and “touched my penis through my pants”.

After rebuking the broadcaster’s repeated attempts – which allegedly occurred again on the way home – Schmidt also said while he didn’t feel harassed because “it was something some gay men did”, he was “disappointed because I thought Jones might be better than that.”

Allegations Of Indecent Assault From Brad Webster – Mid 2000s

Brad Webster (a pseudonym used to protect the accuser’s anonymity) was only 20 when he began working for Jones as an assistant during his time at Sydney’s 2GB.

As part of Webster’s employment, he was frequently tasked with completing mundane tasks, telling McClymont about his experience working his way up from the bottom of the career ladder.

“I did every shit job there was … in the world of 2GB, I was very small, you couldn’t get any smaller than me.”

One of his responsibilities included driving Jones home from the 2GB offices to his home in the Circular Quay building known as The Toaster.

He said that while the drive only took 10 minutes, Jones would use the time as an opportunity to allegedly assault the 20-year-old.

“During those 10 minutes, it would be wandering hands and then it just gradually became him grabbing my dick. And he would go for it,” revealed Webster, nothing how horrible it was.

“He knew I wasn’t gay, so it was about power dynamics. I would be driving, and he would have put his hand on my leg, and then you’d sort of push his hand away, just try and wriggle out. But you’re driving, you’re absolutely trapped … he’d go the grope, he’d rub my penis.”

But it didn’t stop there. As Webster was made to transport the broadcaster’s bags up to his apartment, he alleges that Jones forcibly kissed him on the lips while he was unable to defend himself.

“It was forced on me. It was unwanted from a position of power.”

“If a 65-year-old man had pushed a 20-year-old woman into the corner of a lift, and began to kiss them non-consensually, what do we call that? We call that assault. That’s what he did to me.”

Webster also alleges that once the pair reached his apartment, Jones would change into his dressing gown and head into his office while Webster was made to complete chores like ironing Jones’ underpants.

After requesting permission to leave, Webster claims Jones exposed himself to the assistant.

“There’s no doubt that at the time when all this was going on, I truly felt helpless, you feel helpless,” Webster shares with the publication.

“The power he had was ridiculous. You cannot quantify the power that that man had.”

During his time at 2GB, Webster also alleges that Jones’ behaviour was common knowledge among his senior colleagues.

Recalling incidences when Jones would allegedly grope his penis under the table, Webster says that he was the subject of ridicule from fellow staff members.

“And then afterward – and this stuff made me angry – they would take the piss out of what just happened. Like, ‘Oh, did you enjoy that?’”

After remaining silent for years, Webster became fearful of Jones dying without the allegations coming to light. And, after the birth of his son, he was prompted to come forward and share his story after admitting he couldn’t imagine what he would do if the same was being done to his son.  

One producer, who remained anonymous due to fear, said that while he did not personally witness any such occurrences, he did see “inappropriate behaviour and I saw it on a number of occasions.”  

Reiterating the culture of protectionism within the business, he also said that Jones, “would be all over them – he wouldn’t take his hands off them”.

Allegations From Odin Childs – 2008

Odin Childs was working as a waiter at a Kiama restaurant when he alleges Jones grabbed and fondled him without consent.

Childs, who was 22 at the time of the alleged incident, recalls serving the inebriated broadcaster and another man as Jones brushed his leg.

While Childs thought nothing of the occurrence at the time, later in the evening when Jones was returning from the bathroom, the broadcaster allegedly pressed himself against the waiter before groping him.

“But as I turned to look and got distracted … I can feel his hand, not even a grab, but kind of like place his hand over [my trousers] and pull my penis to the side. It’s a disgusting feeling and it’s hard to talk about.”

Childs told the publication he was too scared to go to the police, because of the broadcaster’s status in the public eye.

“My anxiety was going off. I felt really sick,” he told the reporter. He also said that on Jones’ way out, he allegedly “puts his right hand on top of mine and his left hand under it and winks at me, saying ‘That’s for you, you don’t have to share it with anyone else’” referring the broadcaster passing him a $20 note.

Allegations From Complainant ‘K’ – June 2013

The latest allegation against Alan Jones date back to June 2013 and are claimed to have taken place in Tamworth.

According to documents released by the NSW local criminal court, Jones allegedly “did assault Complainant ‘K’ and at the time of the assault committed an act of indecency on Complainant ‘K’, to wit, grab and squeeze left bottom”, as per detectives recount.

Police Commissioner’s Statement Regarding Jones’ Arrest

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb has responded to reports of Alan Jones’ arrest by addressing media at a press conference from Helensburgh, NSW.

The commissioner outlined how the arrest was preceded by a “long, thorough and protracted investigation” conducted by the strike force.

“I did visit the strike force some weeks and months ago, to look at the work they have been doing. It is very complex and protracted, and I know that those officers have been working tirelessly to lead today’s operation,” she said at the press conference, before stating that she expected the arrest would lead to additional reports and claims.

“I can’t speculate in this particular case, but what is often the case is when it is known – the full circumstances and those parties involved – other people may come forward, and we are anticipating that other people may come forward.”

Updates to come.

If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800 RESPECT for 24/7 support.

READ NEXT:

Survivor Shannon Molloy: We Can’t Ignore The Sexual Abuse Of Boys

The Forgotten Child Sex Abuse Survivors In Rural Australia

Grace Tame Opens Up About Survival, Speaking Out & Starting A Revolution

The post Alan Jones Allegations Rise As He Faces Court, Again appeared first on marie claire.

Published by the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (Hilda), the findings are the culmination of a long-term survey that’s been following the daily habits of more than 17,000 Australians since 2001.

The latest report paints a picture of a largely unchanged domestic load for men, with data revealing they spend an average of 12.8 hours on housework per week, which remains exactly the same as it was in 2002.

Their female counterparts however almost double that amount, with Australian women clocking in an average of 18.4 hours of housework per week.

Grocery shopping, food preparation, laundry, grounds care and gardening, home and vehicle maintenance, caregiving (for children and adults) and paying bills were all considered as domestic labour within the study.

Despite the glaring disparity, both women and men are employed in longer hours of paid work than they were 20 years ago. However, while the average hours of weekly employment for men only rose from 37.7 hours (in 2002) to 37.9 hours (in 2022), women in 2022 averaged 28.5 – up from 22.2 hours two decades prior.

While women are still doing more housework, they’re also taking on the majority of caring duties in homes with children, accounting for an average of 10.7 hours a week compared to men’s 5.5 hours.

The Baby (Un)Balance

The findings also revealed that as soon as children are involved, the amount of time spent on both paid and unpaid work increases significantly. Couples without children accounted for an average of 108 hours per week across the domestic and employment spheres, whereas the figure for parents was closer to 144 hours per week.

A noticeable shift in responsibility was also apparent in the HILDA data, showing a significant widening of the domestic labour gap once a couple’s first baby was born. Five years prior, the share of paid and unpaid work between couples is almost equal – with men leaning slightly higher on the employment front (53 per cent) and women taking on 54 per cent of the housework.

We know that pregnancy and childrearing have a huge impact on household dynamics and the study confirms this unbalance. In the first year after a baby is born, the average share of care for the mother rises to 71 per cent, with her housework load skyrocketing to 63 per cent.

“The birth of the first child is a turning point in a couple’s division of labour, and it has a long-lasting impact,” says Dr Inga Lass, Senior Research Fellow at the Melbourne Institute: Applied Economic & Social Research, at the University of Melbourne..

“Women usually go on maternity leave and become responsible for much of the childcare and housework.” A status quo that, when combined with men continuing on with their jobs as normal, or even increasing hours, can be hard to break.

But even when women return to work after having children, there’s rarely a rebalancing of the pre-baby scales.

“If a woman returns to the labour market, she still keeps doing much of what she has been doing at home as well. Most of those tasks still fall on her shoulders. It becomes a pattern that isn’t renegotiated,” says Dr Lass

Domestic Labour & The Male Blind Spot

She asked him to vacuum, he said he’d “do it later.” She’s still waiting. It’s the housework battle brewing in most Aussie homes and while women report feeling overwhelmed by their never-ending to-do list, men are patting themselves on the back.

We know that men and women don’t always see eye-to-eye, and when it comes to our perceptions of who does the majority of the household chores, it would appear our perspectives couldn’t be further apart.

It might not come as a surprise that the research found that there’s not only a disparity in the amount of unpaid domestic labour being done by men and women, but in our perceptions of how much is being done as well.

The majority of men surveyed as part of the report believed they did their fair share of housework and domestic labour tasks, with 58 per cent of childless men and 55.6 per cent male parents, agreeing with the sentiment.

“The perceptions of men and women as to whether they do or don’t do their fair share are diverse.

“In the same couple, women feel overly burdened and men think they are doing enough at home – they don’t see a problem,” says Dr Lass.

Considering these statistics, it’s no surprise that women were found to be more dissatisfied that men with the division of household labour. The study found that the majority of women (62,6 per cent) felt unsatisfied with the burdensome balance and resented the disparity, whereas only 17 per cent of men said the same.

While we know that women—whether in full-time employment or not—do more unpaid domestic labour than men, this study reveals a deeper problem with the way male partners are thinking about the division of household chores, leading to a toxic hangover for many relationships.

If resentment could clean the house, Australian women would be living in spotless mansions.

Related articles:

• Couples Who Split Housework Have Better Sex
• Kids Who Are Forced To Do Chores Turn Out To Be More Successful Adults
• This Is What Women Want (And Need) At Work

The post The Dishes Aren’t the Only Thing Piling Up, So Is Resentment appeared first on marie claire.

She and husband David Sharaz shared the wonderful news on their personal Instagram accounts on March 3, 2025, after announcing their pregnancy in July 2024.

Accompanied by a beautiful picture of their newborn son, Brittany and David expressed their gratitude for the hospital staff, writing: “Last night we welcomed our little boy into the world. A huge thank-you to the amazing midwives, nurses and doctors for their care and kindness.

“We’re both looking forward to getting to dote on the newest member of the family – forever grateful for all the love and support we’ve received.”

Higgins has previously been open about the struggles she’d faced throughout her pregnancy with a post aiming to remove the stigma from conversations around such difficulties.

Revealing the moment they’d been told their baby was at risk of being born with a genetic disorder, Higgins documented the emotional process in the hopes that it would provide comfort to others who might be experiencing a similar hardship.

“A fortnight ago, @davidsharaz and I had the scare of our lives after the midwife told us halfway through my second trimester my blood test had raised red flags.

“Our baby had a high probability of a genetic disorder – which wouldn’t have mattered to us – but scarily could mean he may be incompatible with life outside of the womb.

“After an amniocentesis and a seemingly never ending wait our prayers were answered. Our little guy is perfectly fine and healthy.

“My mind can’t help but drifting back to that waiting room in the hospital, full of pregnant women, who were all having the same test as us and whether they had been so fortunate. Talking about it takes the stigma out of these very real (and common) circumstances that people are faced with when trying to start families.”

The happy news comes after the couple wed in an intimate ceremony on the Gold Coast in June 2024.

“We’ve gone through more in the last few years than most couples will endure in a lifetime. But it was all worth it to see David standing at the end of the aisle,” Brittany shared at the time.

Here’s hoping the years only get better for the new family of three.

Related articles:

• All The Details From Brittany Higgins’ Fairytale Wedding
• Brittany Higgins Is Pregnant With Her First Child
• Brittany Higgins Is Moving To The French Countryside

The post Brittany Higgins & David Sharaz Welcome Baby Boy appeared first on marie claire.

The 51-year-old man was originally charged with “using a carriage service to make a threat to kill, menace, offend or harass” in April 2023, after pleading guilty to the multiple offences.

The prison term was handed down after the court heard evidence outlining Wonnocott’s vile barrage of threats that began in 2022 with messages to Higgins’ husband, Sharaz, claiming the allegations against Bruce Lehrmann were false.

While Higgins has been transparent about the extent of online abuse she’s received since her case against Lehrmann was finalised, the couple decided to seek legal action after Wonnocott’s abuse turned threatening.

Exchanges between Sharaz and David Wonnocott about Brittany Higgins revealed the extent of the abuse, with words like: “I’ll bury you both,” and “I know the truth… I’m going to pay you a visit,” prompting the couple to fear for their lives.

When Sharaz tried to ascertain if Wonnocott could actually follow through on his threats, asking if he knew where they lived, the man replied: “I’m going to chop [dog] Kingston up into little pieces, I will follow you home from work and destroy you all.”

At the time of sentencing, Judge John Pickering delivered a scathing assessment of the facts, calling out his intent and history of online abuse, and making a point to denounce the ongoing issue of behaviour across the digital landscape.

“If we were to process and imprison every moron – and I use that word deliberately – who said something offensive about Brittany Higgins online, I’d be sentencing people for the next 10 years,” Judge Pickering said.

“But that’s really not what happened here. He wanted him to genuinely feel that this was more than just another idiot online,” – the intent, Pickering argued, that outed Wonnocott for the man he was: “quite an awful human being who has awful views.”

In a victim impact statement shared with the court, Sharaz spoke about the ongoing impact Wonnocott’s actions have had on the couple. “My wife and I have been exposed to a lot of public abuse since she came forward about her alleged rape in Parliament House,” it read.

“However, it was an escalation of death threats by Mr Wonnocott that made us terrified to leave the house alone.

“Over weeks and months, we became petrified that the next person we would encounter would be the nameless, faceless stranger who threatened to end our lives.”

Wonnocott will be eligible for parole in June 2026.

Related articles:

• Brittany Higgins & Bruce Lehrmann: A Timeline Of Events
• Brittany Higgins’ New Career Will Help Victim-Survivors Navigate Our Fraught Justice System
• Court Finds Bruce Lehrmann Lacking In Defamation Case

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Nowadays, it’s not uncommon for famous actresses to be taller than their partners on or off screen. However, this hasn’t stopped the Hollywood machine employing a few height illusions when the cameras are rolling. So, how can you really tell?

Without further ado, here are some of the short male celebs we’ve come to know and love.

Fred Hechinger

Fred Hechinger height: 170cm, 5’7″

Gladiator and Nickle Boys star Fred Hechinger reportedly measures in at 170cm or 5’7″, but there’s no denying his unbridled star power with huge films already in the pipeline for 2025 and beyond.

Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar height: 168cm or 5’6″

While we always knew Kendrick Lamar was one for the short-king hall of fame, fans took to the internet to express their surprise after the star’s history-making Super Bowl half-time show.

The rapper reportedly measures a neat 5’6″, a height emphasised by his controversial decision to take to the stage wearing bellbottom, or kick flare-style jeans – a perfect choice if you ask us.

What Lamar may lack in physical height, he more than makes up for in sheer talent, with an award-winning repertoire under his belt, as well as an unbeatable music career delivering him to an icon status most people in the public eye (and out of it) can only dream of.

Tom Holland

Tom Holland height: 173cm or 5’7½”

There is some debate around Tom Holland‘s actual height. While IMDb cites the actor is around 5’6″ (and a half), other sources claim he is 5’8″. But the Spiderman actor himself has said in an interview: “five foot seven and a half is how tall I am, proudly.”

Holland’s height has not had any effect on his heartthrob status, with millions referring to him as their ‘short king’. In fact, Holland was one of the actors who inspired the term ‘Short King Spring’, alongside Donald Glover. At approximately 173cm, Holland is shorter than his girlfriend Zendaya, whose height is roughly 178cm or 5’10” (depending who you ask). 

Daniel Radcliffe

Daniel Radcliffe height: 165cm or 5’5″

Daniel Radcliffe, aka Harry Potter, is a bit shorter than the other members of the Golden Trio. Daniel is 165cm, which is actually the same height as Emma Watson (Hermione Granger), who is taller in heels, and shorter than Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley), who is 173cm.

In April 2023, Radcliffe welcomed his first child with long-term partner Erin Darke. Darke is a few centimetres taller than her partner, coming in at 170cm.

Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise height: 170cm or 5’7″

Tom Cruise is perhaps the original short king. Although the Top Gun star is 5’7″ himself, he is known for his choice in rather tall partners, including Katie Holmes and Nicole Kidman, who are 5’9″ and 5’10” respectively. 

Zac Efron

Zac Efron height: 173cm or 5’8″

At 173cm, Efron was still taller than his ex-girlfriend and High School Musical co-star, Vanessa Hudgens, who is around 155cm tall.

Mark Ruffalo

Mark Ruffalo height: 173cm or 5’8″

He may be The Hulk, but Mark Ruffalo is ever-so-slightly shorter than average.  This makes him the same height as his Suddenly 30 love interest, Jennifer Garner—who is above average height for a woman. But he’s still taller than his more recent Poor Things co-star, Emma Stone, who comes in at 168cm or around 5’6″.

Al Pacino

Al Pacino height: 167cm or 5’6″

His famous characters are larger than life, but actor Al Pacino is quite slight in stature at 167cm. That makes him about 12cm taller than House of Gucci co-star Lady Gaga, but shorter than male co-stars Jared Leto and Adam Driver.

Robert Downey Jr

Robert Downey Jr Height: 174cm or 5’8″

Another Marvel superhero on the shorter side, with Robert Downey Jr has a height of around 174cm or 5’8″. That means he’s just a fraction taller than fellow Oppenheimer actor and Academy Award winner Cillian Murphy.

Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy height: 170cm or 5’7″ (according to media reports)

Similar to Tom Holland, there is plenty of speculation about Cillian Murphy’s actual height. IMDb lists it as 175cm or 5’9″ but fans have pointed out that this would make him taller than some of his co-stars like Robert Downey Jr – and when pictured together it’s clear that Cillian Murphy is shorter.

According to a report in Express, Murphy’s height is actually 5’7″ or around 170cm, but he definitely appears taller on-screen.

James McAvoy

James McAvoy height: 170cm or 5’7″

This Scottish heartthrob is 170cm tall, around the same height—perhaps slightly taller—than his former Atonement co-star, Keira Knightley. 

Abel Tesfaye (The Weeknd)

The Weeknd height: 173cm or 5’8″

At 173cm, The Weeknd—who has shirked his stage name for his given name, Abel Tesfaye—still towers over his The Idol co-star Lily-Rose Depp. Depp measures 160cm tall, or 5’3″.

Jack Black

Jack Black height: 168cm or 5’6″

Jack Black is shorter than the average male in height, but he’s mighty in stage presence and vocal range! Black is allegedly a centimetre shorter than his The Holiday counterpart, Kate Winslet, but quite a bit shorter than his School Of Rock love interest, Joan Cusack (175cm). 

Mark Wahlberg

Mark Wahlberg height: 173cm or 5’8″

Former Calvin Klein model and Boogie Nights heartthrob, Mark Wahlberg, is reportedly 173cm. That makes him almost the same height as his wife, Rhea Durham, with the former model reported to be 175cm.

Kit Harington

Kit Harington height: 173cm or 5’8″

Game Of Thrones hero Kit Harington is 173cm tall and a few centimetres shorter than his Eternals co-star Gemma Chan, who is reportedly around 5’9″ (and taller in heels, as seen above).

Oscar Isaac

Oscar Isaac height: 174cm or 5’8″

This not-that-short celeb is just shy of average. Oscar Isaac is 174cm—which is still 11cm taller than his Scenes From A Marriage co-star, Jessica Chastain.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover height: 174cm or 5’8″

Like Oscar Isaac, this short king is on the taller side. Glover, an actor-slash-musician-slash-writer, is a powerhouse both on-screen and on-stage, producing some of the most ground breaking work of the 2010s and 2020s.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart height: 165cm or 5’5″

Comedian and actor Kevin Hart has joked about his height in comedy routines before, but there has still been differences in his reported height. In fact, details have ranged from 5’2″ to 5’5″ depending on which media source you referred to. But in an interview with CBS’ 60 Minutes in 2024, Kevin Hart confirmed that he is 5’5″.

“Five foot five like with a shoe on, like a sneaker. Now if I put a boot on I can get to five [foot] five and a half,” he said.

Seth Green

Seth Green height: 160cm or 5’3″

This Buffy star might have played a werewolf, but in his mortal form, Seth Green is around 160cm. The actor’s height is not confirmed with different sources reporting he might be 162cm.

The post Who Are The Shortest Male Celebrities? appeared first on marie claire.

Whether you’re an avid fan or prefer to dip in and out depending on which half-time performer piques your interest, there’s no denying the Super Bowl is a cultural event that’s not to be missed.

As well as being the final game in the National Football League (NFL) season, the Super Bowl has become an icon of the music world, with one lucky artist selected each year to fill the coveted halftime slot. 

Kendrick Lamar has been bestowed with the honour for 2025, and if his past performances are anything to go by, it’s set to be another stellar halftime show.

Whether you’re watching for the game, the commercials or the half-time performances, this is exactly how to watch the Super Bowl from Australia in 2025.

When & Where Is The 2025 Super Bowl?

The Super Bowl LIX will take place on Sunday, February 9 in New Orleans at the Louisiana’s Caesars Superdome.

For those of us tuning in from Australia, that will be Monday, February 10.

How To Watch The 2025 Super Bowl From Australia

The show will be broadcast by Channel 7 and 7Plus, with coverage beginning at 9:30am AEDT. The game is expected to start at 10:30am AEDT and while there are technically 15 minutes a quarter, it can often go on for much longer.

Depending on which state you’re tuning in from, the kick off time will change slightly as per the below:

10:30am AEDT: ACT, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria
10am ACDT: South Australia
9:30am AEST: Queensland
9am ACST: Northern Territory
7:30am AWST: Western Australia

Alternatively, the Super Bowl also streams on Kayo Sports and Foxtel Now, offering live and on-demand coverage.

Sign up for Kayo with a 7-day free trial here, or to Foxtel Now with a 10-day free trial here.

Who Is Playing At The 2025 Super Bowl?

The Kansas City Chiefs will take on the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2025 Super Bowl.

The match marks the second time in three seasons that the Eagles and Chiefs will compete for a shot at the coveted title.

Not only will Kansas City Chiefs be defending their title win against the San Francisco 49ers from last year, they’ll also be aiming to become the first team to win three straight Super Bowls.

Who Is The 2025 Half-Time Show?

Grammy Award-winning rapper Kendrick Lamar is set to take the stage for the 2025 half-time performance.

Historically, the highly coveted set runs between 12-15 minutes and is famous for attracting some of the biggest names in the music business.

Kendrick Lamar won’t be the only global superstar attending the Super Bowl. He will be joined on stage by fellow Grammy-winning artist SZA as a special guest performer.

Rumours are also rife that Taylor Swift might be making her way from the players lounge to the stage for a guest feature, but with the star apparently wary of taking the shine away from her superstar partner Travis Kelce, it does seem unlikely.

Related Articles:

• Who Has Played The Super Bowl Halftime Show Over The Years?
• The Artists Performing At The Super Bowl Don’t Get Paid And People Are Confused
• Best Moments From Taylor And Travis’ Wild Super Bowl Night

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Whether you’re rocking a super cute little snore or a low-key freight train, it’s important to understand how your breathing is impacting your beauty sleep, and what can be done about it.

We’ve seen the rise of a series of methods such as ‘mouth taping’ on TikTok, which influencers purport to turn loud mouth breathers into silent nose breathers.

Of course, we can’t trust TikTok for our health advice, so we have enlisted the help of expert maxillofacial surgeon and sleep apnea expert Dr Paul Coceancig to decode everything you need to know.

What Is The ‘Mouth Taping Trend’?

Influencers online are using a special kind of mouth tape to hold their mouths shut at night. They say that the practice forces them to breath through their nose, so they get less dry mouths, less drooling and, they say, less snoring.

According to Dr. Coceancig, “Mouth taping involves taping the mouth shut with porous tape during sleep so people breathe through their nose.

“For normal and optimal nasal health, people should be breathing through their nose 24hrs a day. Regular air flow through the nose will clear nasal passages like running water through a dry creek bed.”

So yes, there are some benefits to the practice of mouth taping.

Is Mouth Taping Ok For Adults?

While we’re seeing lots of adults do mouth taping on TikTok, it has traditionally been used in treating children with sleep issues.

“For children it’s a training aid as children typically breathe with a chronic open mouth at night. They are the most vulnerable to developing a small upper jaw, dental crowding and underdeveloped cheekbones as a result of chronic mouth breathing as their facial structure forms,” he explains.

“Breathing with the mouth closed puts the dome of the tongue on the roof of the mouth and maximises the chance for a wide adult smile.”

Dr. Coceancig admits that mouth taping isn’t for everyone, but that given it works on a “small number of people”, there has been an upward trend in trying it for adults too.

“Mouth taping can be used to encourage people as to the benefits of regular nasal airflow throughout the night. It can support nasal health by constantly clearing the mucus we form to protect our mucus membrane. Whilst it may support breath training, it won’t reverse dental crowding, a bad bite or small cheekbones in adults.”

Does Mouth Taping Help For Snoring?

While people might breathe louder with their mouth open, it’s not actually having an open mouth that causes the snoring.

Unfortunately, it may not be the best way to ease your delicate evening drone.

“Mouth taping also has zero impact on snoring because it doesn’t impact the anatomical furniture; the jaw is already small,” explains Dr. Coceancig.

Is The Only Way To Fix Snoring A CPAP Machine?

Firstly, it’s important to address the anti-CPAP machine stigma. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with having one, and it can majorly improve your sleep.

However, Dr. Coceancig says there are other things you can do if you’re not sure the machine is right for you just yet.

“When it comes to breathing, I would encourage you to visit your GP to discuss options for breath training and breathing exercises. A breathwork facilitator may also be able to support,” he explains.

“There are a variety of factors that can contribute to snoring, disrupted breathing and sleep apnea, including obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and genetics.”

He also says that our facial structure can play a role in sleep apnea, and that there are some surgeries available that can help create the room you need to breath more freely.

It’s worth consulting a GP for the general treatment of your breathing.

“Snoring and disrupted breathing during sleep may be a sign of sleep apnea. Visiting a sleep physician is also a great way to affirm that you do or don’t have sleep apnea.”

He says this visit is particularly important if it’s impacting “the quality of your sleep or those around you. Or if you think it may be impacting your daily activities and general health and wellbeing.”

Did you know your dentist can help with sleep apnea and snoring? Book online at pacificsmilesdental.com.au, it only takes two minutes to book. They are open early, late and even on weekends

The post Is TikTok’s Mouth Taping Hack Really The Key To Banish Snoring? appeared first on marie claire.

For those who might have missed the memo on what’s about to unfold, here’s a quick explainer on how FireAid came to be, who’s set to perform and how you can watch the concerts live (yes there are two) right here in Australia.

Who Is Performing At FireAid?

Planning for the concert began just three days after the catastrophic fires first began sweeping through LA, when Shelli Azoff and his family decided to hold a fundraiser for wildfire relief.

Within days, the idea, spurred on by the cooperation of concert promoters Live Nation and AEG Presents, had garnered so much traction that a second venue had to be secured to hold the sheer number of artists who’d volunteered to take part.

British icon Rod Stewart was reportedly the first to sign on, followed by Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks.

Immediately following their announcement, dozens of artists answered the call to take part in what is set to be a history making event.

Playing in the Inuit Dome will be:

• Billie Eilish
• Earth, Wind & Fire
• Gracie Abrams
• Jelly Roll
• Katy Perry
• Lady Gaga
• Lil Baby
• Olivia Rodrigo
• Peso Pluma
• Rod Stewart
• Stevie Wonder
• Sting
• Tate McRae

Playing in the Kia Forum will be:

• Alanis Morissette
• Anderson Paak
• Dawes
• Graham Nash
• Green Day
• John Fogherty
• Joni Mitchell
• No Doubt
• Pink
• Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Stephen Stills
• Stevie Nicks
• The Black Crowes

When Is The FireAid Concert & How Can I Watch In Australia?

The FireAid benefit concert will be streamed live in Australia from 1pm AEDT on Friday 31 January – which is 6pm in LA.

According to organisers, viewers around the world will be able to tune in to broadcasts being streamed across a range of platforms including:

• Amazon Music/Prime Video
• Netflix
• Tudum
• Apple Music
• Apple TV app
• Disney +
• Facebook & Instagram
• YouTube

How Will The Funds By Distributed?

Before the concert even began, the outpouring of support from artists, sponsors, event organisers and ticketsales, has culminated in over $60US million being raised.

The funds will be distributed and dedicated to the rebuilding of communities that have been decimated by the recent LA wildfires and will include any funds already raised, as well as subsequent donations expected during the live event.

As per for the organiser’s statement: “Contributions made to FireAid in connection with the FireAid benefit concert and other direct donations will be distributed under the advisement of the Annenberg Foundation and will be distributed for short-term relief efforts and long-term initiatives to prevent future fire disasters throughout Southern California. The Annenberg Foundation, with decades of philanthropic leadership in our community, including rapid response, will help coordinate a team to direct funds for the greatest impact.”

Additionally, you can donate to FireAid directly from the website here.

Related articles:

• LA Wildfire Before & After Images Reveal The Scale Of Destruction
• Celebrities Mourn Homes Lost In The LA Fires 
• Why Social Media’s Reactions To The LA Fires Are So Disturbing
• The Prisoner Firefighters Battling California’s Devastating Wildfires

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Using the morning tea with the Prime Minister to voice an opinion of her own – one that happens to be shared by many people the world over – the 2021 winner took aim at the billionaire media mogul.

Tame was photographed being welcomed by Albanese and his financée, Jodie Haydon, as they greeted guests at the door, conjuring up fond memories of a previous Australian of the Year event – albeit a little less smiley one.

Taking to her personal Instagram after the event, Tame shared a carousel of the picture – and item of clothing – making headlines, alongside the caption that read: “Not here to fuck spiders, just Murdoch (not literally, *ew) and the rest of the morbidly, dynastically wealthy white supremacist corporate oligarchs ruining our planet; funding genocide, war, general destruction; and creating/fuelling division worldwide just to maintain their own power and control!!!”

In a follow-up interview with The Guardian, the activist expanded on the sentiment, sharing that “[The T-shirt is] clearly not just about Murdoch, it’s the obscene greed, inhumanity and disconnection that he symbolises, which are destroying our planet.”

“If we want to dismantle this corrupt system, if we want legitimate climate action, equity, truth, justice, democracy, peace, land back, etc, then resisting forces like Murdoch is a good starting point,” Tame added.

In 2022, a photograph with then-prime minister Scott Morrison went viral for depicting a sombre Tame refusing to (shockingly) force a smile for a man she’d been vocally critical of – and rightfully so. At the time, a division of opinion felt evenly split across the emotive spectrum. Half applauded Tame’s refusal to offer up meaningless platitudes to a man unworthy of her praise, while others filled the comment sections with calls for her to make nice, labelling her – the guest of honour – childish and ungracious for refusing to placate a leader who, repeatedly, failed to do exactly that when it came to women’s safety.

Responding to questions from ABC Radio Perth about Tame’s seemingly controversial attire at this year’s event, Albanese said: “I held a function. It is something that, in my view, took away from the people who were there, and my focus was simply on that.”

When pressed for further comment at a subsequent media conference, the prime minister added: “There was a queue of more than – how many people were in the queue? Around at least 60. There was all of the Australia Day nominees. There was all of the past Australians of the Year. There was the Australia Day Council. People were just there, one by one, rolling through, being welcomed. And [Tame’s shirt] was clearly designed to get attention. I don’t intend to add to that attention because I do think that it takes away from what the day should be about, which is the amazing people who were nominated as Australians of the Year.”

After failing to escape the bombardment of follow-up questions relating to his own views on Tame’s clearly-expressed sentiment, he was careful to distance himself from shirt’s messaging, stating: “I clearly disagree. I want debate to be respectful … and that’s a choice that she made. People are allowed to express themselves, but I thought it was disrespectful of the event and of the people who that event was primarily for,” he continued.

But seeing as the event wasn’t for Murdoch (as far as we’re aware) it’s unclear who exactly Grace Tame was allegedly offending with her choice of outfit.

The sartorial statement comes amid the Murdoch-owned News Group Newspapers landmark settlement with Prince Harry, in which the publisher was forced to apologise for “phone hacking, surveillance and misuse of private information by journalists and private investigators instructed by them at the News of the World. The outcome marks the first time The Sun has admitted to unlawful activities.

Related articles:

• Grace Tame Doesn’t Owe You A Smile
• Prince Harry Receives Apology From Media For ‘Serious Intrusion’ Into Princess Diana’s Life
• How A “Succession Memo” Prompted A Murdoch Family Coup

The post The PM Responds To Grace Tame’s “Disrespectful” Shirt appeared first on marie claire.

The date marks a devastating loss of peoples, culture and Country for so many Australians.

Whether you’re joining a march, attending a ceremony or engaging with culture at one of the many First Nations festivals held around Australia, there’s many different ways that you can commemorate the day. 

These are the Invasion Day marches, rallies and events happening in all of Australia’s capital cities. 

Gadigal/Sydney

Dawn Reflection

In Gadigal, you can begin the day with the Dawn Reflection.

This year’s event will showcase the incredible art of Wiradjuri – Biripi artist James P. Simon – as projected onto the sails of the Sydney Opera House. 

Time: 05:20 AM – 05:40 AM

Location: Overseas Passenger Terminal, 3 Circular Quay West, The Rocks

Morning Ceremony 

The WugulOra (One Mob) Morning Ceremony will be held at Barangaroo Reserve. The event will feature a smoking ceremony, special performances and addresses. 

Time: 07:30 AM – 08:30 AM

Location: Walumil Lawns Barangaroo Reserve, Barangaroo.

Invasion Day March 

The city’s annual Invasion Day rally will be happening at Belmore Park in the CBD. 

Time: 9.30 AM onwards 

Location: Belmore Park, Gadigal CBD. 

Yabun festival 

Celebrating 20 years this year, Yabun festival is the largest one-day gathering and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in Australia. 

If you can’t make it to the festival then you can also listen in via Koori Radio 93.7FM in Greater Sydney. 

Time: 10 AM – 7 PM 

Location: Victoria Park, Broadway.

Blak Powerhouse

Back for its third consecutive year, Blak Powerhouse is a partnership between We Are Warriors and Powerhouse to take over Manning House at the University of Sydney.

Featuring live music, dance, art, food, DJs and more, you can register here.

Time: 5 PM – 10 PM

Location: Manning House, Manning Road, Camperdown.

Ngunnawal/Canberra

Sovereignty Day Rally 

The Aboriginal Tent Embassy will lead the Sovereignty Day Rally from Garema Place.

Time: 9:30 AM 

Location: Garema Place, Canberra City. 

Naarm/Melbourne

Invasion Day Rally 

In Naarm, you can join the annual Invasion Day rally, which will see protesters march from Victorian Parliament House to Flinders St Station. 

Time: 10 AM – 2 PM

Location: Parliament House, Corner Spring St and Bourke St, Melbourne.

Share The Spirit 

Share the Spirit is a celebration of First Nations music, art, craft and culture. 

Time: 11.30 AM 

Location: Treasury Gardens, Melbourne.

Pilk Purriyn Truth Telling

 Pilk Purriyn is a truth-telling event presented by Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation in partnership with Surf Coast Shire Council.

Time: From 5:30 AM to 7 AM

Location: Cosy Corner Beach, The Esplanade, Torquay.

Boorloo/Perth 

Sovereignty Day Protest 

Boorloo’s annual Sovereignty Day Protest will begin at Forest Chase in the CBD. The march will feature speakers and entertainment. 

Time: 12 PM – 1:30 PM 

Location: Forest Chase, Boorloo CBD. 

Birak Concert 

You can experience First Nations music, art and culture at Boorloo’s Birak Concert. The event will feature a traditional Welcome to Country and headline acts by Indigo Ellis Duo, Bobby Bennell, Beni Bjah and Bradley Hall Band.

Time: 3 PM – 7:30 PM 

Where: Supreme Court Gardens, Boorloo. 

Meanjin/Brisbane

Invasion Day March 

Meanjin’s Invasion Day march is happening at Queens Gardens on George Street.

Time: 8 AM -1 PM

Location: Queens Gardens, George St, Brisbane City, Meanjin. 

We Have Survived! March

This year is the Sunshine Coast’s third Invasion Day procession beginning at Foundation Square and moving to Cotton Tree Park.

Time: 9 AM

Location: Foundation Square, Maroochydore.

Garramilla/Darwin

Smoking Ceremony 

A traditional smoking ceremony will be held at Darwin Waterfront with accompanying local Indigenous performers and storytelling. 

Time: 7.45 AM 

Location: Darwin Waterfront, Garramilla. 

Tarntanya/Adelaide

Survival Day March 

The Kaurna Survival Day march will begin in Victoria Square, where there will also be speakers and live performers. 

Time: 11 AM

Location: Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga. 

Mourning In The Morning

The Mourning in the Morning ceremony begins with a welcome to Kaurna country, followed by First Nations speakers, musicians, dancers, and interactive activities grounded in respect. The event will conclude at 8.45am with a smoking ceremony by revered Elder Uncle Moogy Sumner. 

Time: 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM

Location: Elder Park/Tarntanya Wama, King William Street, Adelaide.

Nipaluna/Hobart

Invasion Day March & Rally

Nipaluna’s Invasion Day march will depart from Elizabeth St at 11:30 AM and march to Parliament Lawns.

Time: 11:15 AM 

Location: 198 Elizabeth St, Hobart

Related articles:

• Forget Celebrating ‘Australia Day’: Could January 26 Be A Day Of Healing Instead?
• Why We Need To Talk About Australia Day
• How To Show Up And Support Our First Nations People

The post All Of The Invasion Day Marches, Rallies And Events Happening Around Australia In 2025 appeared first on marie claire.

The BBC reports this is the first time The Sun has admitted to unlawful activities.

In 2019, Prince Harry and former Labour MP Tom Watson sued the NGN—which publishes The Sun and formerly News Of The World—for allegedly targeting him with phone hacking, use of private investigators and other alleged unlawful information gathering. The court proceedings were due to begin in London on Wednesday morning (AEDT), but last-minute discussions were called, leading to a settlement.

The apology from The Sun‘s owner, specifically mentioned “incidents of unlawful activities carried out by private investigators working for The Sun” between 1996 and 2011, as well as “phone hacking, surveillance and misuse of private information by journalists and private investigators instructed by them at the News of the World.”

“NGN further apologises to the Duke for the impact on him of the extensive coverage and serious intrusion into his private life as well as the private life of Diana, Princess of Wales, his late mother, in particular during his younger years,” a statement from the publisher read.

“We acknowledge and apologise for the distress caused to the Duke, and the damage inflicted on relationships, friendships and family, and have agreed to pay him substantial damages.”

If you’re thinking the Duke of Sussex has spent a lot of time in the UK courts recently, you’d not be wrong. In 2023 he testified in court as part of a lawsuit against Daily Mail publisher, Associated Newspapers Limited. Prince Harry was among several celebrity claimants, including Elton John and Elizabeth Hurley. 

Here’s what we know about the case.

What Charges Is Harry Bringing Against News Group Newspapers?

Harry initially sought to bring charges of alleged phone hacking, as well as unlawful information gathering (UIG) against the publisher of The Sun. However, the publisher requested that the case be thrown out, suggesting it had been brought too late.

After, in July 2023, the court ruled it was too late for Harry to proceed with phone hacking charges, it granted him permission to proceed with other allegations of UIG, including the use of private investigators in unlawful news-gathering techniques. 

The hearing would have marked a significant moment for Murdoch media, in that it would be the first time that NGN would be required to defend itself against allegations that the organisation and its relevant executives had widespread knowledge or involvement in, the unlawful news-gathering techniques. Similarly, that the methods used were concealed under a widespread cover-up of information.

The allegations of corporate-level wrongdoing would go against the company’s previous “bad apple” defence, which insisted the phone hacking saga was the result of a few rogue journalists.

The claims against the publication date back to 1996 and include more than 200 articles published between then and 2011. Prince Harry is alleging that the articles written during that time contain information obtained through illegal avenues.

Of the 200 articles, the trial will reportedly focus on a selection of 30, which are due to be dissected in detail. The Duke of Sussex has been very open about his reason for pressing on with the – potentially costly – court case, sharing his intentions at a recent New York Times event last December. “The goal is accountability. It’s really that simple,” he said.

Why Couldn’t Prince Harry Proceed With His Phone Hacking Allegations?

NGN, which denies Prince Harry’s claims, argued he could not proceed with charges due to a six-year limitation.  In turn, Harry’s legal team argued that the Duke was unable to bring his case to court at the time due to a “secret agreement” between the royal family and NGN.

Harry alleged this “secret agreement” involved the royal family delaying legal proceedings in return for an apology, the Guardian reports. Meanwhile, NGN denied the existence of any agreement. 

Harry’s lawyers also suggested that, although Harry was aware of the infamous phone hacking scandal, he was not aware it had taken place at The Sun.

The judge sided with NGN, concluding that Prince Harry could not prove he “did not know and could not with reasonable diligence have discovered facts that would show that he had a worthwhile claim for voicemail interception in relation to each of the News of the World and The Sun.”

“He already knew that in relation to the News of the World, and he could easily have found out by making basic inquiries that he was likely to have a similar claim in relation to articles published by The Sun,” Judge, Mr Justice Fancourt, wrote in his ruling. 

A spokesperson for NGN described the High Court’s decision as “a significant victory”, adding that the ruling “substantially reduces the scope of [Prince Harry’s] legal claim. The exact nature and scope of any trial of the remainder will be the subject of further hearings.”

What’s Next For Prince Harry?

Prince Harry is to receive a settlement from the case. While it has not been disclosed, People reports it will be around eight figures, or approximately £10 million (nearly AU$20 million).

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The post Prince Harry Receives Apology From Media For ‘Serious Intrusion’ Into Princess Diana’s Life appeared first on marie claire.

As he addressed the crowd, made up of government members, past presidents, notable dignitaries, tech titans and celebrities, Trump promised that “from this day forward, our country will flourish.”

The wider Trump family assembled to mark the occasion, including Melania and their son Barron, as well as Ivanka, Donald Jr., Eric and Tiffany.

In line with tradition, former presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton were also there to witness the transfer of power from outgoing president Joe Biden to Trump.

After the oath swearing ceremony, Trump began his second inaugural address, criticising Biden’s last-minute decision to pre-emptively pardon key political allies and family members who could have potentially become a target under the incoming administration.

But his apparent indignation didn’t stop there. In a statement admonishing the outgoing government, Trump swore to end “the vicious violent and unfair weaponisation of the justice department,” and work to restore the “scales of justice.”

Referring to the assassination attempt during his campaign trail, he noted that the attempt to end his life was a galvanising moment.

“They tried to take my freedom and, indeed, to take my life,” he said. “I felt my life was saved for a reason. I was saved by God to make America great again.”

Below, some of the key takeaways and political promises from Donald Trump during his second inauguration speech.

Donald Trump Promises To End “Catch And Release”

As the crowd met his vow to declare a “national emergency on the Mexico border” with applause, he went on to announce a slew of hard line executive orders he plans to enact as his first weeks as President.

One of the first executive orders Trump plans on signing includes ending the practice of “catch and release,” which is a vague term that’s generally used to describe the detaining of people who are waiting for a court date, to avoid them being “at large.”

He said “I will declare a national emergency at our southern border. All illegal entry will immediately be halted, and we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came.”

As well as promising to reinstate his “remain in Mexico policy,” he also said that he’d “send troops to the southern border to repel the disastrous the disastrous invasion of our country.”

Trump Pledges To Take Back The Panama Canal

After promising to take back the Panama Canal from the current system that “China is operating,” he stated that “we have been treated very badly from this foolish gift that should have never been made and Panama’s promise to us has been broken.”

He also claimed that 38,000 American lives had been lost in the building of the Panama Canal, despite the official death toll indicating that number was 5600.

He Announced Plans To Repeal Trans Rights

As part of his inauguration speech, Trump announced plans to sign an executive order to recognise only two genders – male and female.”

Aligned to this is his promise to roll back protections for transgender people and end the country’s diversity, equity and inclusion programs, in order to end what he called efforts to “socially engineer race and gender into every aspect of public and private life.”

Trump Will Declare A “National Energy Emergency”

While the exact details surrounding this declaration are current unclear, Trump’s vow to support the growth of the fossil fuel sector was reaffirmed when the President announced: “We will drill, baby, drill.”

“We will be a rich nation again and it is the liquid gold under our feet that will help us do it.”

The sentiment was also extended to electric vehicles, which became the target of his intended repeals, promising to revoke any mandates related to EVs. A peculiar promise given that Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk is now a member of his newly-formed cabinet.

While no such mandates currently exist, it’s assumed that Trump is referring to policies that seek to encourage a general transition – over time – to battery powered cars.

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The post All The Key Moments From Donald Trump’s Inauguration Speech appeared first on marie claire.