Daily News 19

Tag: Celebrity

  • Tim Curry: The Heartbreaking Story Behind the Life-Changing Event That Left Him in a Wheelchair

    Tim Curry: The Heartbreaking Story Behind the Life-Changing Event That Left Him in a Wheelchair

    The entertainment world is mourning the loss of legendary actor Tim Curry, who passed away at the age of 80 on Wednesday, 26 August. Famed for his unforgettable performances in iconic films such as The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Curry’s career spanned an incredible six decades. His passing follows more than a decade of severe health struggles resulting from a life-altering event from which he never fully recovered.

    Tim Curry’s Health Journey and the 2012 Stroke

    In 2012, the beloved British actor suffered a major stroke that dramatically impacted his mobility, leaving him wheelchair-bound. Despite intensive physical and speech therapy, Curry faced ongoing challenges, particularly with short-term memory and mobility issues in his left arm and leg. Last year, the actor confirmed that he remained unable to walk, though he continued to make rare television appearances from his wheelchair.

    Despite his physical limitations, Curry successfully transitioned to voice acting to continue his creative passions. Fans heard his iconic voice in various animated projects, including his role as Chancellor Palpatine and Darth Sidious in the acclaimed animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

    Curry spoke openly about the sudden onset of his stroke, noting that he did not immediately realize what was happening. While receiving a massage, the therapist recognized signs of medical distress and immediately called emergency services.

    Reflections on Recovery and Mortality

    In a deeply personal CBS interview broadcast last year, the veteran actor shared his thoughts on his health battles and his perspective on facing the end of life.

    “I don’t fear death,” Curry admitted. “I try to avoid it. I think we all do, but I suspect that in the end, I will welcome it.”

    He added, “I think it may be very comforting to go bye-bye, and I want to earn it.”

    Reflecting on the terrifying experience of the stroke itself and the subsequent recovery process, he expressed how difficult it was to lose his voice. “I was scared. I had to learn how to speak again. That was very weird.”

    Describing the moments leading up to his hospitalization, he recalled: “I hated not being able to speak. I was having a massage at the time and I didn’t even actually notice anything, but the guy who was doing the massage said, ‘I’m worried about you, I want to call an ambulance.’”

    Curry initially dismissed the gravity of the situation, remembering, “And he did, and I said, ‘That’s so silly.’”

    Throughout his recovery, maintaining a positive outlook was crucial. Back in 2015, when the celebrated Broadway and screen star was honored with a lifetime achievement award by the Actors Fund, he spoke to Los Angeles magazine ahead of the event.

    “I’m doing well and I’m looking forward to it,” Curry told the publication. He expressed his admiration for the charity, adding, “I’ve done a few benefits for the Actors Fund and I think it’s a marvellous organisation. I hope not to have to use it.”

    When asked about navigating his recovery, he emphasized that having a sense of humor was ‘absolutely vital’. “It’s not tough to maintain,” he explained. “It is just part of my DNA.”

    The Legacy of a Six-Decade Career

    Tim Curry leaves behind an extraordinary body of work that has captivated audiences across generations. Beyond his defining role as the mad scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter, his diverse filmography includes notable roles in classics such as Annie, Clue, Legend, Addams Family Reunion, and Charlie’s Angels.

    His rise to fame began in the early 1970s when he landed his first full-time role in the original London stage production of the musical Hair. It was during this time that he met Richard O’Brien, who went on to write the iconic role of Dr Frank-N-Furter specifically for him in The Rocky Horror Show. Curry’s brilliant performance helped shape the character on the London stage before he brought the character to global screens in the legendary 1975 film adaptation, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, securing his place in cinematic history.

  • Rupert Grint to Return as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter’ on Broadway

    Rupert Grint to Return as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter’ on Broadway

    In a thrilling development for Wizarding World fans across the globe, Rupert Grint is set to make his highly anticipated return to the Harry Potter universe, reprising his iconic role as Ron Weasley. The 38-year-old actor, who captured hearts worldwide as a young star in the blockbusting film adaptations, is stepping back into the role nearly two decades after his final cinematic appearance as Harry Potter’s loyal best friend.

    Grint will join the cast of the acclaimed Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at New York’s Lyric Theatre. His strictly limited 17-week engagement is scheduled to run from February 2, 2027, through May 30, 2027.

    A Full-Circle Return to Platform 9 ¾

    Reflecting on this milestone career move, Grint expressed deep emotion about returning to the character that defined his early life, especially now that he has experienced parenthood himself. Speaking of the return, the actor said: “Ron Weasley has been a part of me since I was 11 years old and I can’t wait to meet him again in this stage of life.”

    He continued, “There is something so full-circle and so special about stepping back into Ron’s shoes now when we are both fathers; it is somehow both very familiar and completely new.

    For Grint, performing on the New York stage again adds another layer of excitement to the project. “And the joy of being back on Broadway, this time in a role that defined so much of my life is truly exciting.”

    He also recalled his initial reaction to the theatrical sequel, stating, “The first time I saw Cursed Child onstage, I was blown away and I can’t wait to set foot back on platform 9 ¾ and pick up where I left off.

    He added, “I am overjoyed to join this exceptional cast and crew at the Lyric Theatre this winter.”

    Producers Celebrate a Legacy Reconnected

    The show’s producers, Sonia Friedman and Colin Callender, shared their profound excitement at bringing the original film star into the theatrical production, describing themselves as “enormously privileged” to welcome him back. In a joint statement, the producers highlighted the lasting cultural impact of his portrayal:

    “Rupert Grint’s performance as Ron Weasley in the eight Harry Potter films defined for generations what it meant to be a loyal and brave friend even in the face of adversity and hardship,”

    “We, along with all the wizarding world fans around the globe, watched Rupert grow up through his portrayal of Ron while preserving the qualities at the very heart of the character – his humor, his bravery, and of course, that unmistakably cheeky grin – like an invisible thread woven throughout the years.

    They emphasized that this engagement is far more than a simple exercise in nostalgia. Instead, it represents a continuation of Grint’s artistic journey, which has spanned film, television, and acclaimed stage performances on both Broadway and the West End since the final film wrapped production.

    “In joining our extraordinary company onstage at the Lyric Theatre in New York City, Rupert is not simply revisiting a role from his past.

    “He is continuing a journey he began as a child and carrying it forward with all the life and experience he has gained since filming concluded, including a career that has taken him from film to television to acclaimed stage work on both Broadway and the West End.

    “His return creates a powerful bridge between the story audiences first fell in love with and the story of family, legacy and the passage of time that Harry Potter and the Cursed Child carries forward.”

    With Grint’s return generating massive excitement, his limited 17-week Broadway run in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is poised to be one of the most sought-after theatrical events of 2027.

  • Dawson’s Creek Star Busy Philipps Diagnosed With Rare Brain Tumour at 47

    Dawson’s Creek Star Busy Philipps Diagnosed With Rare Brain Tumour at 47

    Actress Busy Philipps has opened up about her recent health battle, revealing she was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor earlier this year. Following a routine full-body MRI in February, the 47-year-old underwent surgery in early March, just before production began on her new television series, Cupertino.

    Reflecting on the life-altering diagnosis, the star expressed immense gratitude. “I’m grateful that I’m alive,” she told PEOPLE. “I didn’t know why I wanted to get this scan except for the fact that I just did.”

    An Intuitive Choice and a Crucial Push

    The decision to schedule the scan came during an incredibly emotional time. When Busy lost her friend and Dawson’s Creek co-star, James Van Der Beek, to colon cancer in February, a severe blizzard in New York City initially forced her to postpone the appointment for several weeks.

    However, her ex-husband and close friend, Marc Silverstein, strongly encouraged her not to delay the procedure any longer. “He’s like, ‘Maybe it’s the best thing you could do for your friend this morning. Go get that scan,’” the White Chicks actress recalled. Shortly after, Beverly Hills internist Dr. Justin Donlan informed her that he had identified a lesion on her brain that required further medical evaluation.

    The Shock of the Diagnosis

    The initial moments of processing the diagnosis were a whirlwind of emotion. Philipps described how she communicated the news to Silverstein. “The texts to my ex-husband are comical. While I was on the phone with Dr. Donlan, I texted Marc, ‘OMG I have a brain tumor.’ And he wrote back, ‘Busy, what? What are you saying? What are you talking about?’ I was like, ‘It looks fine. It’s probably benign. I don’t know.’”

    However, the gravity of the situation quickly became clear after her MRI results were fully analyzed. Doctors delivered a sobering message: “‘This is a real tumor, and it’s inside your brain. And Busy, it’s got to come out.’“

    The revelation took an immediate physical and emotional toll. “I was hyperventilating and trying to breathe.” Philipps also shared that her 18-year-old daughter, Birdie, ‘was kind of beside herself and really, really scared and overwhelmed with emotion’.

    Despite her own fear, the actress focused on comforting her daughter. “I just kept saying to her, ‘Birdie, you’re just not in the movie where your mom dies your senior year of high school. That’s just not the movie that you’re in. I promise you,’” she added.

    Surgery and Pathology Results

    On March 2, Philipps underwent a complex five-hour operation during which neurosurgeons successfully removed a 2.6cm mass from her brain. A subsequent biopsy identified the growth as a grade 2 oligodendroglioma, which is a rare type of brain tumor defined by specific genetic alterations.

    Her neuro-oncologist, Dr. Alexandra Miller of NYU Langone, explained to PEOPLE that oligodendrogliomas are quite uncommon, with only about 1,100 to 1,300 cases diagnosed annually in the United States.

    Addressing the prognosis, Dr. Miller clarified the nature of the condition: “It is considered malignant, but it has the best prognosis of all of the malignant gliomas.“ She added, “It’s sort of defined as a cancerous tumor based on the ability of the tumor to regrow over time, rather than it looking very malignant under the microscope.”

    A Complicated Recovery and Looking Ahead

    Though the tumor was successfully removed, Philipps faced a challenging recovery period. She developed a staph infection in her surgical incision, requiring a secondary operation on April 27 to clean the wound and remove a titanium tack from her skull. Fortunately, medical professionals caught the infection early before it could progress deeper.

    Today, Philipps does not require chemotherapy or radiotherapy, though she will continue to undergo regular monitoring scans to ensure the tumor does not return. Her surgeon has expressed high confidence, noting there is a great chance the tumor may never come back.

    Ultimately, Philipps hopes her story encourages others to trust their instincts when it comes to their health. “We are frequently told by doctors that there is nothing to worry about [when] you kind of know that there’s something to worry about,” she emphasized. “There’s nothing to be afraid of in having information. It’s only empowering.”

  • Brooklyn Beckham Hits Back at Critics Who Told Him to ‘feed’ Wife Nicola Peltz

    Brooklyn Beckham Hits Back at Critics Who Told Him to ‘feed’ Wife Nicola Peltz

    Brooklyn Beckham is making it clear that he will not tolerate any negativity directed toward his wife, Nicola Peltz. The aspiring chef and media personality recently faced online backlash after sharing a home-cooked meal on Instagram, prompting him to swiftly shut down a critical commenter.

    Beckham took to social media to showcase his latest culinary creation: a classic, comforting cottage pie. While the majority of the comments on his post focused on offering constructive cooking tips—such as how to make the filling less watery or how to get his potatoes extra crispy—one user decided to take an unnecessary swipe at Peltz’s physical appearance.

    As reported by the Daily Mail, the commenter said: “Do you comment on everyone who is concerned about your wife and how sickly she looks?”She puts herself out there, feed her.

    Beckham did not hesitate in hitting back with a stern reply, writing: “Don’t ever talk about my wife.”She’s absolutely beautiful and you should never comment on a woman’s body. It’s disgraceful.”

    The Impact of Body Shaming in the Public Eye

    The harsh ‘skinny shaming’ directed at Peltz highlights a wider, ongoing issue facing public figures today. This incident occurred shortly after pop star Ariana Grande announced she was taking a step back from the spotlight.

    A representative for the 33-year-old revealed she would be taking ‘much-deserved break’ once her Eternal Sunshine Tour concludes in London in September. The representative told PEOPLE that this planned hiatus comes amid ‘endless ongoing public scrutiny,’ pointing to growing social media discussions regarding Grande’s physical appearance.

    The announcement followed the release of her “Petal” music video, which featured a satirical take on Hollywood producers making critical, objectifying remarks about her body before Grande’s character humorously dispatches them. The video renewed online discourse surrounding body shaming, with Jameela Jamil calling out the singer’s team.

    Addressing her upcoming hiatus during a live performance in Chicago, Grande told her fans: “So basically, the announcement that was made yesterday was not a reactive or impulsive thing,”

    She continued: “It is something that I had decided to plan that I had quietly made a long time ago and it’s a decision that was made from a thoughtful and empowered place. And I want you to know many things can be true at the same time.”

    Inside the Ongoing Beckham Family Rift

    Beyond dealing with social media trolls, Brooklyn Beckham remains deeply estranged from his family. Brooklyn and Nicola Peltz have been married since 2022, but they quietly renewed their vows in a private ceremony. The couple now marks that vow renewal date as their official anniversary, steering clear of their original wedding date, which was plagued by controversy.

    The rift between Brooklyn and his parents, David and Victoria Beckham, has reportedly persisted for years. In a bombshell statement released in January, Brooklyn claimed his parents had tried to ‘ruin his relationship’ with the 31-year-old actress and had ‘controlled’ his ‘life.’

    He also alleged that his mother, Victoria Beckham, 52, ‘danced very inappropriately’ on him’ after she reportedly ‘hijacked’ the newlyweds’ first dance during their original wedding.

    An anonymous source told The Sun: “Brooklyn and Nicola’s first wedding in April 2022 is not an occasion they look back on fondly.“Nicola ended up in tears. It’s not something they want to be reminded of.“Their second wedding, where they renewed their vows last August with just her family and their friends, does hold so many happy memories, however.“Going forwards, they’ve decided that this is the date they will celebrate publicly together.”

    Adding fuel to the rumors, Brooklyn recently revealed he had a tattoo honoring his mother removed from his left chest.

    A Detailed Timeline of the Beckham Family Feud

    To understand how relations between Brooklyn, Nicola, and the rest of the Beckham family became so strained, here is a chronological breakdown of the key events:

    April 2022: The Florida Wedding

    On April 9, 2022, Brooklyn and Nicola wed in a lavish ceremony in front of 500 guests at her family’s estate in Palm Beach, Florida, two years after getting engaged.

    August 2022: Reports of Tension Emerge

    Only a few months after the wedding, media sources began reporting on a ‘full-on cold war’ between Nicola and her new mother-in-law. According to Page Six, ‘the build-up to the wedding was horrendous’ and they ‘can’t stand each other and don’t talk’. Reports also claimed much of the feud stemmed from Nicola’s decision to wear a Valentino wedding dress instead of a piece designed by Victoria’s fashion house, though both parties appeared to dismiss those rumors at the time.

    March 2023: A United Front

    The family put on a united front in March 2023, appearing happy together as they posed for photos at Victoria’s fashion show in Paris.

    April 2025: The Rift Reopens

    Two years later, the divide became apparent again when Brooklyn and Nicola reportedly snubbed David Beckham’s landmark 50th birthday celebration at Cipriani Downtown Miami. Around the same time, TMZ claimed that Brooklyn and his brother Romeo were not speaking due to a fallout over Romeo’s girlfriend, Kim Turnbull, who allegedly had a ‘romantic connection’ with Brooklyn ‘several years ago’. Cruz Beckham later insisted that Brooklyn and Kim had never actually dated. Still, by May 2025, Brooklyn and Nicola were noticeably absent from David’s continuing birthday celebrations.

    July 2025: Social Media Unfollowings

    In July 2025, the siblings seemingly cut digital ties, with Brooklyn and Nicola unfollowing Romeo and Cruz, and vice versa.

    August 2025: Vow Renewals Without Parents

    David and Victoria Beckham were notably absent from Brooklyn and Nicola’s private vow renewal ceremony. By December of that year, reports surfaced that Brooklyn and his parents had unfollowed one another entirely on social media.

    December 2025: Cruz Clears the Air

    Responding to claims that his family had unfollowed Brooklyn, Cruz posted on his Instagram Stories: “NOT TRUE. My mum and dad would never unfollow their son … Let’s get the facts right. They woke up blocked … as did I.”

    January 2026: Legal Communications and Bombshell Claims

    In January 2026, reports emerged that Brooklyn had sent a legal letter to his parents insisting they only contact him through his lawyer. Victoria reportedly breached this boundary when she ‘liked’ an Instagram post he made about a roast chicken.

    On January 19, Brooklyn broke his silence by posting a series of explosive statements on his Instagram Stories, alleging his parents tried to ‘ruin’ his relationship, have ‘controlled’ his life, and prioritised ‘Brand Beckham’ over everything else.

    March 2026: David’s Unanswered Birthday Message

    David Beckham tried to reach his son on his birthday, posting a childhood photo and writing: “27 Today. Happy Birthday Bust. We love you.” David tagged Victoria in the tribute but was unable to tag Brooklyn, who had blocked him. Brooklyn did not publicly acknowledge the post.

    June 2026: A Hand-Delivered Note and Commercial Swipes

    The drama continued in June 2026 when Brooklyn’s 14-year-old sister, Harper, was photographed outside Brooklyn’s door hand-delivering a letter. Brooklyn and Nicola were believed to be in New York at the time. A representative for the Peltz-Beckhams issued a sharp response, stating: “That photographers were in place as the letter was hand-delivered says it all – this was choreographed for the cameras.”

    Shortly after, Brooklyn starred in a DoorDash commercial during the World Cup, seemingly taking a direct swipe at his family. In the ad, he says: “You’re probably wondering why I’m watching the FIFA World Cup 2026 from home. It’s a long story.”

  • Dolly Parton’s No. 1 Song Was Banned From Radio Over ‘suggestive’ Lyrics

    Dolly Parton’s No. 1 Song Was Banned From Radio Over ‘suggestive’ Lyrics

    The music world is mourning the loss of country music icon Dolly Parton, who has passed away at the age of 80. Following her passing, fans and historians are looking back at her legendary career, including the surprising controversy surrounding one of her biggest hits, which was once banned by radio stations and disc jockeys for supposedly suggestive lyrics.

    In her book, Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics, the late singer-songwriter recalled how radio programmers refused to broadcast her 1975 single “The Bargain Store.” She explained that conservative country music broadcasters deemed the track’s wording “dirty” or too provocative for the airwaves at the time.

    Dolly Parton Passes Away at 80

    The country music legend passed away at age 80, as confirmed by her family in a heartbreaking statement released on Tuesday (25 August). Her publicist, Marcel Pariseau, stated that she had been receiving treatment at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center prior to her death, which followed a brief illness. While the specific form of cancer has not been publicly disclosed, her team shared an emotional tribute to her lasting impact:

    “Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. “

    Her representatives added:

    “After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones.”

    Why “The Bargain Store” Faced a Radio Ban

    Decades before her passing, Dolly Parton faced significant pushback from conservative radio programmers. The primary issue with her 1975 release, “The Bargain Store,” lay in lyrics that some DJs suspected were coded references to prostitution. Listeners and programmers took issue with lines suggesting that a bargain was waiting inside.

    The specific lyrics that sparked the controversy read:

    “The bargain store is open, come inside. You can easily afford the price.”

    The song continues:

    “Love is all you need to purchase all the merchandise. And I can guarantee you’ll be completely satisfied.”

    In her memoir, Parton strongly defended her songwriting, asserting that her intentions were entirely wholesome and that the suggestive double meaning was purely in the minds of the listeners.

    “When I wrote ‘The Bargain Store,’ I swear on my life that I was never thinking about love in any vulgar way.”

    She added:

    “Somehow, this lyric is a dirty thing to a man. But I never saw it that way. Every man I know thinks it’s dirty.”

    A Metaphor for a Broken Heart

    According to Parton, the “bargain” referenced in the title was never meant to be physical. Instead, she used the concept of a secondhand shop as a metaphor for entering a new relationship while carrying emotional baggage from past heartbreak.

    She explained her creative thought process in her book:

    “All I was thinking of was the heart: ‘If you don’t mind the merchandise is slightly used, with a little mending it can be good as new.’

    She further clarified the emotional message she intended to convey:

    “I was saying that you’ll be surprised at how good this broken heart is. Just take it. You’ll never be sorry that you did. “

    “The words just meant that I’ve had relationships: I’ve been through stuff; I’m not new at this.”

    Despite her confidence in the track, the initial reaction from radio programmers was a major disappointment for the artist.

    “I thought for sure that I had written a hit song,”

    Parton wrote, adding:

    “And then the disc jockeys wouldn’t play it.”

    Fortunately, the censorship did not last. Airplay eventually picked up, and “The Bargain Store” went on to climb all the way to the No. 1 spot on the charts. The track became Parton’s fifth solo number-one country hit, cementing its place in music history and spending a total of nine weeks on the country charts.

  • Dolly Parton issued heartfelt video message to fans week before her death aged 80

    Dolly Parton issued heartfelt video message to fans week before her death aged 80



    Dolly Parton has died aged 80, leaving fans around the world mourning the loss of one of country music’s biggest-ever stars.

    Just days before her death, Parton had shared a heartfelt video message with fans after being forced to pull out of a public appearance at her beloved Dollywood theme park.

    Parton’s head of security Bryan Seaver confirmed news of the legendary singer, songwriter and actress on Tuesday (25 August) in a heartbreaking video message.

    Dolly’s passing comes after a difficult period for the ‘Jolene’ and ‘9 to 5’ singer, who had been dealing with a number of health issues in recent months.

    Just last week, fans got a glimpse into how the 80-year-old star was doing when she issued a video message that was broadcast to fans at the launch of a new theme park ride at Dollywood.

    “I’m supposed to be there in person, like we planned,” Parton had said, in the video. “I’ve had my butterfly wings flappin’ since May 15 when we were due to open the first time, and again in June.

    “But I know we had to make sure this is the safest, since it is the biggest and the most expensive ride we have ever added to Dollywood. So, we’re gonna open it today.

    “That’s why I’m here, because my little butterfly wings are getting kinda tired.”

    The country legend went on to explain that she was getting ‘dizzy’ and ‘dehydrated’, and so was advised not to travel.

    Without getting into specific details about her health troubles, Parton had made every effort to keep her beloved fans updated on her wellbeing.

    Dolly Parton has sadly passed away at age 80. (Terry Wyatt/WireImage)

    Back in May, she posted to social media to assure fans that she was ‘improving every day’, but that some of her treatments were making her ‘a little bit swimmy-headed.’

    She joked at the time: “Of course I can’t be dizzy, carrying around banjos, guitars and such on five-inch heels. And you know that I’m gonna be wearing them!

    “I’m doing really well, and they assure me that everything I have is treatable, so I’m going with that, and I just want you to know I thank you for standing by me and that I will always love you.”

    The country music legend had been keeping fans up to date on her health difficulties. (Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

    Tributes are pouring in from fans and friends alike for the 11-time Grammy-winning artist.

    Parton’s passing comes less than two years after the death of her husband Carl Dean.

    Her partner of almost six decades passed away in March 2025 at the age of 82.

    At the time, she told Associated Press: that Dean had been ‘ill for quite a while’ and that while part of her was ‘at peace because he’s at peace’, it didn’t ‘make up for the loss and the loneliness of it.’

    She also told the publication: “I am a person of faith, and I truly believe that I’m going to see him again someday.”

  • Dolly Parton has died aged 80

    Dolly Parton has died aged 80



    The ‘Queen of Country’ Dolly Parton has sadly passed away at the age of 80.

    The legendary performer’s tragic death was announced by her nephew and head of security, Bryan Seaver, in a poignant post shared on social media Tuesday (25 August).

    Famed for her incredible charm and extraordinary hits including ‘9 to 5’, ‘Jolene’ and ‘Here You Come Again’, tributes have been pouring in for the music star after the sad news broke.

    Paying tribute to his beloved Aunt Dolly, Seaver explained that she had requested that he took on the task of announcing her death when the time eventually came.

    “This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality,” he said in the emotional footage.

    “As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment, but haven’t truly felt it until now.

    “It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly.”

    The country music queen beloved by millions has passed away at the age of 80 (Jason Kempin/Getty Images)

    “Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens,” his statement said.

    Seaver went on: “Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers from every walk of life and across every continent.

    “She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and the doors she opened made and changed history.

    “My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you. She has always been your television, your record player, your CD, becoming an extended part of your family. Whether you liked it or not.

    The poignant message announcing her death ended with this emotional shot (Instagram/@dollyparton)

    “Our family and the team she has entrusted with her legacy will work diligently to ensure her spirit will live with us forever.

    “Dolly was a farmer just like her Daddy, he farmed the soil, she farmed song and happiness.

    “Dolly called me and said she wants to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton, because after a life of wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest.

    “Rest in Peace Aunt Dolly. Aunt Granny. Gigi. May God bless Dolly Parton and may God bless you all. She will always love you.”

    Dolly’s husband of more than six decades, Carl Dean, passed away at the age of 82 in March 2025.

    In a statement shared on X, she said at the time: “Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.”

    (Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)

    The late 10-time Grammy winner has been battling a number of unknown health issues in recent months, which forced her to cancel a public appearance at Dollywood in early August.

    In a video message, she told those who had gathered to see her that medics forbid her from travelling to the attraction in Tennessee due to the ‘few little health issues’ she is currently dealing with.

    However, she insisted that ‘all is going well on the medical end of thing’ and told her fans she ‘likes to keep them all in the loop about everything going on with her’.

    While explaining the reason for her absence, Dolly noted that she was still in Nashville and was told she couldn’t make the journey to the city of Pigeon Forge, where Dollywood is located, by her doctor.

    “I’m supposed to be there in person, like we planned,” Parton said in the video message, before revealing she was ‘dehydrated’.

    “That’s why I’m here, because my little butterfly wings are getting kinda tired,” Dolly said in the clip.

    “Now I’ve told you before, all my fans, that I have had a few little health issues. And sometimes I get a little dizzy, and I get dehydrated. And I’m dehydrated.

    “And so my Nashville doctor clipped my wings, saying you ain’t travelling this week. So I guess if your doctor tells you you ain’t travelling this week, you ain’t travelling this week.”

    Parton told fans she was ‘responding really well to meds and treatments’ in a social media post back in May.

    “I’m improving every day,” she said. “Bad news is it’s gonna take me a little while before I’m up to stage performance level because some of the meds and treatments make me a little bit swimmy-headed, as my grandma used to say.

    “Of course I can’t be dizzy, carrying around banjos, guitars and such on five-inch heels. And you know that I’m gonna be wearing them!

    “I’m doing really well, and they assure me that everything I have is treatable, so I’m going with that, and I just want you to know I thank you for standing by me and that I will always love you.”

    Dolly Parton played Glastonbury in 2014 (Courtesy of Dolly Parton Estate).

    Among her famous songs was the hit I Will Always Love You, which she penned as a farewell to Porter Wagoner, who had helped her land a record deal.

    Whitney Houston went on to record a cover for The Bodyguard film, which topped charts.

    Her song Jolene, released in 1974, is considered one of country music’s greatest songs, with Beyonce covering it on her 2024 album Cowboy Carter.

    A statement released by her team following her death said: “A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth, and kindness that made us all feel like family.

    “Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”

  • Jelly Roll makes brutal dig at Trump following NSFW admission about weight loss

    Jelly Roll makes brutal dig at Trump following NSFW admission about weight loss



    Jelly Roll is has fired a brutal – albeit hilarious – wave of insults in the direction of US President Donald Trump this week.

    The singer and rapper has undergone a dramatic weight loss recently, shedding a whopping 275lbs (124kg), and took an opportunity to share some weight loss tips with Trump.

    Jelly Roll (real name Jason DeFord), was guest hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live!, which is already a bad start for Trump, when suggested that after shedding a few pounds, the president might be able to ‘see [his] penis again.’

    It comes after Jelly Roll’s wife, Bunny Xo, publicly noted that the musician’s weight loss has made his privates ‘severely bigger’.

    Jelly Roll fired some brutal shots at Donald Trump. (Barry Brecheisen/WireImag)

    Speaking to Howard Stern, she was keen to share: “It is very true that when a man loses weight, it grows a lot.”

    So, with equipped with his weight loss wisdom, the ABC Network cameras, and likely a strong sense of self-confidence after that comment from his wife, Jelly Roll was more than ready to take a few jabs at the president.

    Referring to a recent report from The Washington Post that claimed doctors are worried about Trump’s weight, Jelly Roll told the Jimmy Kimmel Live! audience: “After his last physical we found out Trump gained 14 pounds, which means he’s now tipping the scales of almost 240.

    “It’s crazy. Think about this, y’all, in the last few years I’ve lost 300lbs. That means I’ve lost an entire Donald Trump. And let’s be honest, based on his approval rating it seems like most of the country wants to do the same thing.”

    The 41-year-old continued: “We should take it easy, we shouldn’t be making fun of the president’s weight because we know that he would never do that to other people.”

    Right on cue, a video compilation Donald Trump’s previous comments on other people’s weight flashed up on the screen.

    Trump has never been one to shy away from commenting on people’s weight. (Finn Gomez/Getty Images)

    When the video concluded, Jelly Roll smirked at the camera and said: “Well Mr. President, from one fat pig to another, take it from me that physical fitness is very important.

    “And trust me, you’ll be happy to see your penis again.”

    Met with huge laughs from the studio audience, he added: “And I’m speaking from personal experience. The first time I saw mine again recently, I was surprised at how cute it was!”

    Back in 2022, the ‘Need A Favour’ singer, who at one point weighed 550lbs (249kg) vowed to shed some weight, focusing on healthier food and exercise.

    Speaking to Men’s Health about his transformation, he raved: “I’m loving my body. This is a whole new thing for me, y’all. I’ve been imprisoned to a fat suit for 30-something years.”

  • Prince Harry’s brutal response to watching Meghan Markle’s Fits intercourse scenes

    Prince Harry’s brutal response to watching Meghan Markle’s Fits intercourse scenes



    Prince Harry as soon as admitted that watching his future spouse have intercourse on display when she labored as an actress was a ‘mistake’.

    Across the time they began relationship in 2016, the Duke of Sussex – who’s planning to maneuver again to the UK very quickly along with his spouse – says he regretted trying up Meghan Markle on Google.

    Again then, the actor starred as Rachel Zane in American regulation drama Fits, a job she performed from 2011 to 2018.

    Within the season two finale, Rachel and her love curiosity Mike Ross (performed by Patrick J. Adams) get it on within the file room of their workplace block.

    ‘I did not have to see such issues’

    Harry beforehand wrote in his memoir Spare that he made the ‘mistake of Googling and watching a few of her love scenes on-line’.

    “I’d witnessed her and a castmate mauling one another in some form of workplace or convention room,” he penned.

    Prince Harry did not take pleasure in watching his future spouse on display in some sure Fits scenes (Netflix)

    “I didn’t have to see such issues dwell.”

    Her final look in Fits noticed Rachel marry Mike within the season seven finale.

    The Duchess of Sussex, 45, give up present enterprise shortly after her engagement to Harry, 41, which was introduced in 2017.

    ‘I did not assume I might ever be within the leisure business once more’

    “For me, as soon as we hit the 100-episode marker, I assumed, ‘I’ve ticked this field and I really feel actually happy with the work we’ve completed there, and now, it’s time to work as a workforce with [Harry]’,” she defined to the BBC on the time.

    Meghan added to Vanity Fair in 2022: “I left Fits proper after the a centesimal episode, in 2018. I did not assume I might ever be within the leisure business once more.”

    The couple are making a bombshell return to the UK (Matt Dunham – WPA Pool/Getty Photographs)

    She is now set to play herself in new Amazon MGM Studios film Shut Private Mates, which began filming in 2025.

    The likes of Brie Larson, Lily Collins, Jack Quaid and Henry Golding are set to star within the Jason Orley led movie.

    “However the complete tradition has modified; streamers have modified issues. The flexibility to create zeitgeist moments like we had within the ’90s — the place everybody would tune in on the identical time for a present or collect for one second? — that does not occur anymore.”

    Particulars on Harry and Meghan’s transfer again to the UK

    The couple have been within the headlines this week after their plans to return to the UK completely have been revealed.

    Reviews counsel that the pair might be residing with their two kids in a non-public property outdoors London.

    Prince Harry beforehand admitted to ‘lacking’ the UK (Vito Amati/The David Foster Basis by way of Getty Photographs)

    “I really like my nation, I all the time have completed, regardless of what some folks in that nation have completed,” Harry advised the BBC in 2025 after shedding his Courtroom of Enchantment problem over downgraded safety preparations.

    “I miss the UK, I miss elements of the UK. After all I do. And I believe that it’s actually fairly unhappy that I received’t be capable of present my kids my homeland.”

    “The UK is my dwelling. The UK is central to the heritage of my kids and a spot I would like them to really feel at dwelling as a lot as the place they dwell for the time being within the US.”

    “That can’t occur if it’s not attainable to maintain them secure when they’re on UK soil. I can’t put my spouse in peril like that and, given my experiences in life, I’m reluctant to unnecessarily put myself in hurt’s manner too,” he added in a written witness assertion learn to the Excessive Courtroom throughout his authorized problem towards the Dwelling Workplace in 2023.

    Why are Prince Harry and Meghan Markle transferring again to the UK?

    Contemplating Prince Harry’s earlier statements on privateness and security issues for his household, many have been left pondering over precisely why he and Meghan have made the choice to maneuver again from the US.

    The couple’s plans for his or her new life within the UK are at present unclear (Cameron Spencer/Getty Photographs)

    Whereas the couple are but to substantiate the explanation, ITV’s royal editor Chris Shipp has outlined some theories.

    Citing how Harry has missed residing within the UK and has missed the connections and buddies he has right here, Shipp identified how Montecito in California – the place the couple and their kids have resided for a couple of years – is a really good distance from dwelling, each geographically and culturally.

    “Neither Harry nor Meghan has loved residing in a rustic by which Donald Trump has been president, and the place the partisan information protection may be very totally different to the way in which the media operates in Europe,” he wrote.

    Shipp additionally raised the query of safety, and stated he had ‘heard some motion on the problem’ – but it surely’s unclear what plan is in place for Harry, Meghan and their household.

    Beforehand, the federal government committee that decides safety for high-profile royals and politicians used the Sussexes residency in California as one of many causes for them not being granted taxpayer-funded safety.

    So transferring again to the UK signifies that the Dwelling Workplace committee, often known as RAVEC, should reassess its earlier choices, based on Shipp.

    As for work, Variety has reported that Meghan has been eyeing up on-screen work – together with making a cameo of herself in Amazon MGM’s comedy Shut Private Mates.

    LADbible has approached Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for remark.

  • Taylor Swift’s ex-boyfriend Conor Kennedy has been placed on worldwide needed checklist

    Taylor Swift’s ex-boyfriend Conor Kennedy has been placed on worldwide needed checklist



    Taylor Swift’s former boyfriend Conor Kennedy has been positioned on Russia’s needed checklist for allegedly aiding Ukraine in the course of the warfare.

    Russia has now issued an arrest warrant for the 32-year-old son of US Well being Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, placing him on a world needed checklist.

    Regardless of not having any navy expertise, Kennedy stated he quietly travelled to Ukraine in 2022 to assist in their defence in opposition to Russia.

    “Like many individuals, I used to be deeply moved by what I noticed taking place in Ukraine over the previous 12 months. I needed to assist. Once I heard about Ukraine’s Worldwide Legion, I knew I used to be going, and I went to the embassy to enlist the subsequent day,” Kennedy defined in an Instagram publish.

    “I informed one individual right here the place I used to be, and I informed one individual there my actual title. I didn’t need my household or buddies to fret, and I didn’t need to be handled otherwise there.”

    Conor Kennedy is the son of US Well being Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr (Instagram)

    He stated he was prepared to die for Ukraine’s trigger and was initially despatched to the northeastern frontline.

    “My time in Ukraine wasn’t lengthy however I noticed rather a lot and I felt rather a lot,” Kennedy added. “I preferred being a soldier, greater than I had anticipated. It’s scary. However life is easy, and the rewards for locating braveness and doing good are substantial.”

    State media outlet TASS stories that he has been charged with committing against the law below Half 3 of Article 353 of the Russian Prison Code (participation of a mercenary in an armed battle or navy motion).

    The US citizen faces seven to 10 years in jail.

    Kennedy is married to Brazilian artist Giulia Be (Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

    When Kennedy left for Ukraine, he didn’t inform his father the place he was going, solely that he had determined in opposition to taking a summer season job with a Los Angeles legislation agency, like he had initially deliberate.

    “We requested him when he was beginning [the job at the law firm],” Robert F. Kennedy Jr – who works in Donald Trump’s cupboard – informed PEOPLE in 2022.

    “He had job and we had been wanting ahead to having him stick with us. And he informed us that he had given discover to the legislation agency and he was doing one thing else as an alternative.”

    Kennedy’s first job in Ukraine was working drones, which his father thought ‘was fairly harmful’.

    Kennedy dated Swift in 2012 (Kevin Mazur/WireImage)

    “The Russians have know-how that permits them to identify you while you activate the drones, to allow them to electronically see the pilot after which goal the pilot with artillery, which kills something inside 100 yards,” he added.

    “He obtained a tripod-mounted machine gun that needed to carry 1,000 rounds of ammunition,” Robert added after his son was promoted to machine gun operator. “He was large enough and powerful sufficient to hold that gun.”

    Kennedy can also be identified for courting hit singer Swift in the summertime of 2012, reportedly crashing the marriage of his cousin Kyle. They reportedly cut up in October 2012 and Kennedy is now married to Brazilian artist Giulia Be.