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Uncovering Venom’s Omission from Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Its Impact on Fans

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In “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” Peter Parker, played by Tom Holland, grapples with an onslaught of adversaries, making his role as the neighborhood hero more challenging than ever. From all directions, Michael Mando’s Scorpion and Sadie Sink’s Jean Grey press in, adding to his difficulties. Blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cameos feature villains like Ramrod, Boomerang, and Tombstone, further enriching the rogue’s gallery. Fans curious about the absence of Venom in this narrative might find themselves puzzled, especially since 2021’s “Spider-Man: No Way Home” hinted at the alien symbiote’s presence within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The post-credits scene of “No Way Home” depicted Eddie Brock, played by Tom Hardy, indulging in a drink at a bar on Earth-616, the MCU’s home. Abruptly, he is whisked away to Earth-688, within Sony’s Spider-Man Universe. However, he inadvertently leaves behind a trace of the Venom symbiote on the counter, suggesting a future clash or collaboration with Spider-Man looming in the background.

Venom’s notable absence from “Brand New Day,” coupled with Holland not appearing in the SSU, stems primarily from the two film worlds at Sony never fully converging. “They were crafting this universe and had plans to merge the worlds at some point, although they never pinpointed the right time,” Holland explained on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast (via Collider).

The Venom movies were successful, but the rest of the villain spin-offs weren’t

The sole occasion where Tom Holland’s Spider-Man and Tom Hardy’s Venom have shared the screen was during the post-credits scene of “Venom: Let There Be Carnage.” The duo appeared transfixed on a broadcast from the Daily Bugle discussing Peter Parker’s compelled public revelation as Spider-Man while they were transported into the MCU.

The brief encounter, orchestrated by director Jon Watts with Holland filming his bemused look on the “No Way Home” set, implied a possible future face-to-face meeting. Yet, with dismal receptions of other Sony Spider-Man villain films like “Madame Web,” “Morbius,” and “Kraven the Hunter,” such a crossover remains uncertain. “The audience is the boss, and they didn’t respond. It’s as simple as that,” remarked Sony Pictures CEO Tom Rothman, commenting on the spin-off movies’ lukewarm reception in an interview with Variety.

While critical reception to the “Venom” movies fluctuated, they were box office successes, grossing a collective total of $1.8 billion for Sony. “The Last Dance” acted as a trilogy capper to the Hardy movies, with Venom sacrificing himself to save his host from the monstrous Xenophages. But even a mostly clear-cut ending can’t stop Sony from greenlighting more projects, as they recently announced they’re actively developing an animated “Venom” movie from “Final Destination: Bloodlines” directors Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein. It’s not clear what Tom Hardy’s involvement will entail, or whether this will be a sequel to the live-action movies or folded into the “Spider-Verse” landscape.

Sony and Marvel Studios might pull inspiration from the Secret Wars comic

Marvel Studios CCO Kevin Feige and “Brand New Day” producer Amy Pascal seem to hold out hope for a crossover between Spider-Man and Venom. But given how different Tom Hardy’s interpretation is from the comics, it would make more sense for them to move forward without involving him — and there’s an upcoming MCU project that might be the most fitting place to do so. 

Plot details are currently scarce regarding the 2027 film “Avengers: Secret Wars,” but the title is taken from two major Marvel Comics crossover events of the same name, published in 1984 and 2015. While the movie will reportedly draw more from the latter version, there’s still a chance it could retain certain story elements from the 1984 narrative – such as Spider-Man getting the Venom symbiote.

In the eighth issue of 1984’s “Secret Wars,” Spidey ends up needing a new suit due to the amount of damage his has taken on the artificial planet known as Battleworld. He ends up choosing a machine with a black ball that envelops him from head to toe, giving way to the iconic black suit. It’s only upon returning home in “Amazing Spider-Man” #252 that Peter learns it’s actually an alien symbiote that wants to bond with him. His rejection, however, leads the symbiote to attach itself to reporter Eddie Brock, who ultimately becomes his nemesis Venom.

Tom Holland isn’t currently slated to appear in “Doomsday” or “Secret Wars,” but his inclusion feels all but inevitable. If this comes to pass, then he’ll join Tobey Maguire — who wore it in “Spider-Man 3” — as the only other live-action “Spider-Man” actor to have worn the symbiote suit on the big screen.

Former Assistant of Sean “Diddy” Combs Reveals Alleged Abuse Against Cassie Ventura

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Sean “Diddy” Combs, a name almost synonymous with hip-hop legacy, saw his incredible ascent to fame with personal achievements like helming a successful music label by the age of 24, pioneering a thriving fashion brand, and advancing the careers of many of music’s elite artists.

In the year 2019, the entertainment titan’s financial success was recognized by Forbes, estimating his net worth at an impressive $740 million.

In a dramatic turn in 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office revealed that Combs faced serious federal charges, including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and facilitating prostitution.

The drama reached a climax in a sensational 2025 trial. Sean Combs, upon the conclusion of the legal battle, was acquitted of the more severe racketeering and sex trafficking accusations but was convicted on two counts of promoting prostitution, resulting in a 50-month prison sentence, according to NBC News.

In pursuit of further unraveling this celebrity saga, Oxygen’s Dateline: Secrets Uncovered offers new perspectives from those intimately familiar with Combs, diving into the allegations and the sequence of events that led to his significant fall from grace.

To learn more about what they revealed and Combs’ life today, read on below: 

Who is Sean “Diddy” Combs?

Though the ambitious Combs got his start in the music industry as an intern, by the age of 24 he had launched his own label, Bad Boy Records, which served as launching pad rappers like Notorious BIG and Faith Evans, according to The Times

He quickly became known for stoking the flames of the infamous East Coast-West Coast rap rivalry, creating his own fashion brand, signing up for lucrative liquor partnerships and fostering the careers of a new generation of stars, sometimes through his MTV reality competition series Making the Band

According to Capricorn Clark—who, at 25 in 2004, signed up to be his personal assistant—she often logged long 20-hour days. 

“This is an on-call job. The dream doesn’t stop,” she explained to Dateline: Secrets Uncovered. “You can rest when you’re dead. Honestly, I thought he was teaching us how to become like him.”

She described her former boss as talented and driven, but she said there was a darker side to him as well. 

She alleged that on her first day of work, after Combs learned she had ties with his west coast rival Suge Knight, he took her on a walk through Central Park.

“He told me, ‘I didn’t know you had anything to do with Suge, if something happens, I’m going to have to like, you know, do something to you.’ I was like woah,” she recalled. “He said, ‘I’ll have to kill you.’” 

Combs representatives told Dateline: Secrets Uncovered that Combs had been concerned to learn of her history with Knight, but disputed her account of the interaction.

Allegations of Violence Surface Against Sean “Diddy” Combs

Still, Clark decided to stay and worked closely with Combs for years. While on the job, Clark said she got to know his girlfriend Cassie Ventura, who would later become the star witness in his trial. 

Though Clark described the relationship starting off normal, she said it became “increasingly more toxic” and violent as time went on.

She recalled one instance in which Combs had allegedly been upset about Ventura’s ties to Kid Cudi and beat her up.

“He kicked her the entire time, I could hear the blows to her body, and she just kept cowering and taking them and taking them,” Clark told Dateline: Secrets Uncovered. “I’m begging him, ‘please stop, stop hitting her, stop, Puff, stop.’ And he sees me flinch forward, and he says, ‘If you jump in, Cap, I’ll f–k you up too.’”

In 2024, a video of Combs beating Ventura outside the elevator of a Los Angeles hotel in 2016 was released by CNN. In it, Ventura was seen leaving a hotel room, carrying her bags and walking to an elevator. Moments, later Combs—wearing only a towel—was seen following her, before grabbing her from behind, throwing her to the ground, kicking her and then dragging her back toward the room.

Combs later issued an apology on Instagram.

“It’s so difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life. Sometimes you gotta do that,” Combs began, according to KTLA. “I was ****ed up … I hit rock bottom. But I make no excuses. My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions.”

In 2023, Ventura sued Combs, alleging that during their time together he controlled her life, regularly beat her, caused physical and psychological trauma and sexually abused her, according to Dateline: Secrets Uncovered.

Combs’ former attorney Ben Brafman told Dateline’s Andrea Canning that Combs ultimately settled the suit for $20 million. 

“The press was very, very bad, and his family’s reaction was very negative,” Brafman said. “And he wanted it settled, and we settled it in one day.”

Combs’ new attorney Marc Agnifilo told Dateline: Secrets Uncovered Brafman’s comments had been unauthorized.

What Was Sean Combs Charged With?

Combs legal troubles didn’t end there. In September 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Southern District of New York announced that the hip-hop star had been indicted on racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.

Federal prosecutors alleged that Combs “abused, threatened, and coerced women and others, and led a racketeering conspiracy that engaged in sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice,” according to their statement.

They accused him of subjecting women to sexual abuse days-long parties known as “freak offs.” During the events, federal prosecutors said Combs allegedly forced the women to have sex with male commercial sex workers and “arranged, directed, and often electronically recorded” the interactions, per the statement.  

“To ensure participation in Freak Offs, Combs used violence and intimidation, and leveraged his power over victims—power he obtained through obtaining and distributing narcotics to them, exploiting his financial support to them and threatening to cut off the same, and controlling their careers,” they wrote. “Combs also threatened his victims, including by threatening to expose the embarrassing and sensitive recordings he made of Freak Offs if the women did not comply with his demands.”   

Combs pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and went on trial in May 2025. Ventura served as one of the prosecution’s key witnesses, testifying about the alleged control, abuse and forced sexual encounters.

“I just felt pretty horrible about myself,” she said, per NBC News. “I felt disgusting. I felt humiliated.” 

Prosecutors also called male sex workers, another of Combs’ girlfriends who testified under the pseudonym Jane, Kid Cudi, Clark, Combs’ staff and more to the stand.

Combs defense team argued, according to NPR, that although he enjoyed the swinger life and had a history of domestic violence, all of his relationships were consensual. They denied that he’d run a criminal enterprise.

What Was Sean Combs Convicted Of? 

When the verdict came in on July 2, 2025, Combs was acquitted of racketeering conspiracy and the sex trafficking charges. He was found guilty on the lesser counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. 

Agnifilo described the verdict as a “great victory” for his client, who had been facing the possibility of life in prison, according to Variety. Combs was sentenced to 50 months in prison. 

His attorneys later appealed his conviction, arguing that the judge was wrong to consider his abusive conduct when handing down the sentence, NBC News reported.

When Will Sean Combs Be Released From Prison? 

Today, a Bureau of Prison spokesperson told Oxygen that Combs remains incarcerated at FCI Fort Dix, a low security federal correctional institution in Fort Dix, New Jersey. 

His projected release date is Feb. 20, 2028. 

Florida Man Accused of Machete Attack on Sleeping Sister and Toddler, Raises Grave Safety Concerns

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Meanwhile, a shocking incident in Florida has made headlines after authorities announced the arrest of a man accused of launching a brutal attack on his sister with a machete as she slept beside her one-year-old daughter.

Ruben Altidore, 36, allegedly carried out this horrifying act in her bedroom in Margate, Florida, a small city located about 40 miles north of Miami. His attempt to kill her failed, but the attack left a lasting impact, according to reports from WPLG.

During the vicious attack, Altidore reportedly screamed, “Oh my God, why aren’t you dead yet?” as detailed in the official arrest report, underscoring the ferocity of the crime.

Following the incident, Altidore was swiftly apprehended and faced multiple charges, including attempted felony murder, aggravated child abuse, and violation of probation, as indicated by jail documents. The community remains in shock as details of this unsettling case continue to unfold.

Ruben Altidore mugshot

Ruben Altidore, 36, is accused of repeatedly hacking at his sister with a machete in her bedroom. (Broward County Sheriff’s Office)

His sister survived the attack but suffered serious injuries.

She suffered a 10-inch wound that reached the bone on the back of her right thigh, a four-inch laceration to the back of her right hand with the possible amputation of at least four fingers, a near amputation of her left index finger and thumb and a cut to her left palm with a near amputation of her left thumb, according to investigators.

The victim’s 1-year-old daughter was found after the attack lying in the bed covered in blood, though investigators said the child was not injured.

The woman eventually managed to escape and ran to a neighbor for help, WPLG reported, adding that her piercing screams were captured on home surveillance video.

Broward County Main Jail in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Ruben Altidore was being held without bond at the Broward County Main Jail. (Getty Images)

“My [brother] is trying to kill me,” the woman reportedly screamed as investigators arrived at the scene, according to the police report.

A cousin of the victim also told investigators that Altidore attacked his sister with a machete, and a neighbor reported hearing the victim screaming after she ran outside following the attack.

“She ran to the middle of the street and then ran to my front door where she was asking for help,” neighbor Luis Pereria told WPLG. “Apparently she was sleeping when this all happened. I was just baffled by it. How can you do that?”

Investigators found a large amount of blood inside the victim’s bedroom that was tracked into the hallway, to a bathroom door and outside the home.

Broward County Sheriff's vehicle

Ruben Altidore was charged with attempted felony murder, aggravated child abuse and violation of probation. (Broward County Sheriff’s Office)

A machete sheath was discovered in the kitchen, and a machete was found under a bed with what appeared to be “red smudges,” investigators said.

Altidore was taken to the Broward County Main Jail and is being held without bond.

A motive for the attack remains unclear at this time.

Heartbreak After Trust: New Friends Disappear Without Warning

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DEAR ABBY: Four years back, my cousin “Roy” introduced me to his circle of friends. This lively group would gather monthly at a different couple’s house, indulging in meals followed by a spirited game of dominoes. The atmosphere was always vibrant and filled with laughter, a pleasure I’d seldom experienced since losing my husband years prior. I felt embraced by this newfound camaraderie, even being told I was “part of the family.” Roy even brought me along on cruises with a few members of the group, strengthening our bonds even further.

However, after one of those cruises, things took a peculiar turn. Aside from Roy, who instead turned hostile, everyone else completely cut me off. Despite my efforts, no one told me what I might have said or done to offend them so gravely. I confided in Roy, emphasizing that I’d never intentionally hurt anyone, but he offered no clarification. And today, reaching out to five others from the group yields only silence.

How can apologies be made when I’m clueless about my transgression? With Roy no longer among us, I’m at odds about whether I should reach out once more. Could trying to understand why I was “ghosted” be worth pursuing? — LONELY WITHOUT THEM IN MISSOURI

DEAR LONELY: If your intent is to rekindle these old friendships, it’s likely that chance has slipped away. Yet, for the sake of your peace of mind, it might be worth one last attempt at contacting Roy’s friends for closure. Regardless of their response, it’s crucial for you to expand your social network and move forward. Remaining fixated on this past hurt won’t bring you any benefit now.

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DEAR ABBY: Six months ago, my wife and I hired a cleaning company to help around the house once a month. It has been a big help because my wife has arthritis. Even though her arthritis is debilitating at times, she insists on still working at least part time.

When “Helen,” the woman who cleans our home, arrives, we offer her tea or something before she starts to clean. Recently, she asked my wife if she worked, and my wife responded that she works part time as a librarian. Helen’s response was, “Oh, I wish I could work part time.” 

My wife is 64 and worked full time until two years ago. Helen is probably in her 30s. I didn’t appreciate Helen’s demeanor. Her response had a hint of jealousy. My wife and I are quiet people. We dislike strife. How can we politely tell Helen she talks too much? We don’t mind for a little while, but she talks almost the entire time she’s at our home. — UNRECEPTIVE AUDIENCE IN NEW YORK

DEAR U.A.: A way to accomplish that would be to stop offering Helen “tea or something” when she arrives, which should give her less time to socialize. Another would be to make it a habit not to be in the same room with her while she’s working. I’m sure you and your wife can find something else to do while the place is being cleaned. You could even go out for coffee or lunch unless your intuition is telling you she can’t be trusted. If that’s the case, you need another cleaning person.

** ** **

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

Gianni Infantino Stays On as FIFA President Amid Calls for Resignation

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In a show of unwavering allegiance, FIFA’s senior officials have thrown their “full support” behind Gianni Infantino, ensuring his continuation as president. This decision follows urgent talks in Morocco, where Infantino sought backing amid mounting pressure.

Amidst the ongoing World Cup sell-off controversy, Luis Figo emerged as the latest prominent voice demanding Infantino’s resignation. The scathing critique, shared with Daily Mail Sport, added fuel to the already intense scrutiny surrounding FIFA leadership.

In a fiery 601-word statement, Figo lambasted Infantino’s scrapped proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup to private entities. He condemned the idea as the “most deceitful” act he’s encountered, branding it a “grubby, underhand plot.”

Figo’s incendiary remarks further intensified the pressure on Infantino, prompting the crisis summit in Rabat as Infantino maneuvered to retain his grip on power.

Despite the turmoil, it seems Infantino’s position remains secure. In a comprehensive statement released late Wednesday night, FIFA acknowledged errors but indicated that apologies have been made to various football associations. A review of the situation is also on the horizon, aiming to address these contentious issues moving forward.

The statement said that, following the meeting, FIFA’s secretary general Mattias Grafstrom, who had criticised Infantino, and other management board members in attendance ‘reaffirmed their full support for the president’. 

FIFA president Gianni Infantino (right) and FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström (left) appeared in high spirits while watching a women's AFCON game on Wednesday night

FIFA president Gianni Infantino (right) and FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström (left) appeared in high spirits while watching a women’s AFCON game on Wednesday night 

For good measure, it added: ‘FIFA will no longer tolerate any attacks on its integrity, good governance and due process and will take all necessary measures to protect and safeguard its name and reputation. 

‘There are always lessons to be learned, and FIFA will continue to improve its processes in light of this experience. In this instance, however, it is important to stress that, although mistakes were made, everything that was done was done in full compliance with the FIFA regulatory framework.’ 

Figo, the former Barcelona and Real Madrid star, who initially backed Infantino in 2015, branded the Swiss a ‘relic who should have no part in football’s future’ and accused him of ‘a litany of abuses’. 

Aside from the World Cup sell-off, he referenced the decision to suspend the ban for USA striker Folarin Balogun after his red card at the World Cup and the half-time show during the final which ‘broke the laws of the game’. 

‘Infantino has debased the office of FIFA president he promised to elevate,’ he wrote. 

‘He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest at the expense of the game he is supposed to serve.’ 

Figo’s comments came after an attack by UEFA, which said it had lost confidence in Infantino, calling his proposal to flog commercial and event operations a ‘shabby, back room, opaque deal’. 

Amid heavy criticism and calls for Infantino to go, Grafstrom sent an all-staff memo describing the situation as ‘sad and reproachable’ and adding ‘individuals, unstable moments and unfortunate episodes come and go.’ 

However, second-in-command Grafstrom was pictured laughing and joking with Infantino at a women’s Africa Cup of Nations game following the meeting, ahead of the release of the statement. 

Should he survive, Infantino would face re-election in March, and would need 106 votes from Fifa’s 211 members to win another term in charge of the global game.

Infantino arrived at the crunch meeting in Morocco earlier on Wednesday amid mounting pressure.

He had summoned senior FIFA officials to the Moroccan city of Sale for crisis talks after plans to sell £3.1billion in World Cup stakes leaked last week

The Swiss football administrator has since scrapped the proposals after widespread opposition – including an internal rebellion at FIFA.

UEFA and CONCACAF – the body for North and Central America and the Caribbean – are both calling for Infantino to step down, with Europe declaring a lack of confidence in the FIFA president.

Pressure grew further after Jordan FA president Prince Ali bin Hussein accused him of blackmail, becoming the first Asian nation to rebel against the FIFA president.

Jordan became the 91st member association to move against Infantino, assuming all UEFA and CONCACAF nations follow the stance set by their continental bodies. 106 nations are needed to depose Infantino as president.

FIFA President Infantino arrived at an emergency meeting in Sale, Morocco on Wednesday

FIFA President Infantino arrived at an emergency meeting in Sale, Morocco on Wednesday

Infantino is facing mounting pressure over his failed plan to sell off stakes in the FIFA World Cup

Infantino is facing mounting pressure over his failed plan to sell off stakes in the FIFA World Cup

Football legend Luis Figo became the latest high-profile individual to call for him to resign, while Arsene Wenger distanced himself from Infantino's plans

Football legend Luis Figo became the latest high-profile individual to call for him to resign, while Arsene Wenger distanced himself from Infantino’s plans

A car carrying Infantino was seen arriving at FIFA’s Africa regional office in Sale on Wednesday.

The meeting comes hours after Figo became the latest major name in football to demand his resignation.

In an explosive piece for Daily Mail Sport, which further ramped up the pressure on the under-fire FIFA chief, the Portuguese legend described his now aborted World Cup sell-off as the ‘lowest, most deceitful and cravenly self-interested behaviour I have ever witnessed’ and a ‘grubby, underhand plot’.

Across 600 no-holds-barred words Figo, who had initially backed Infantino in 2015, brands the disgraced exec a ‘relic who should have no part in football’s future’ and accuses him of ‘a litany of abuses’, also referencing the now-infamous suspension of the ban behind Folarin Balogun’s red card and the half-time show at the World Cup final which ‘broke the laws of the game’.

‘Infantino has debased the office of FIFA President that he promised to elevate,’ the former Real Madrid, Barcelona and Inter Milan star writes. ‘He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest at the expense of the game he is supposed to serve.’

Figo, now 53, is viewed by many as a potential successor to Aleksandr Ceferin, head of UEFA which is leading the war against Infantino.

Figo and Jordan’s Prince Ali had both previously stood against former FIFA president Sepp Blatter in the 2015 elections. 

Figo ultimately withdrew from the process, while Prince Ali pulled out after the second round of voting. Blatter announced his resignation four days after re-election amid a vast backlash.

Infantino is facing his own backlash following his World Cup plans, with FIFA’s chief operating officer Kevin Lamour saying he was ‘deceived’ by the project and others, including chief of global football development Arsene Wenger, have distanced themselves from the hastily dropped plan.

Figo branded Infantino as a ¿relic who should have no part in football¿s future¿ in an explosive article for Daily Mail Sport

Figo branded Infantino as a ‘relic who should have no part in football’s future’ in an explosive article for Daily Mail Sport

Figo, who had initially backed Infantino in 2015, claimed the Swiss official has 'debased the office of FIFA President'

Figo, who had initially backed Infantino in 2015, claimed the Swiss official has ‘debased the office of FIFA President’

With morale among staff said to be ‘rock bottom’ according to insiders, secretary general Grafstrom sent an internal email to staff citing ‘a sad and reproachable series of events’ and perhaps tellingly pointing out that ‘individuals, unstable moments and unfortunate episodes come and go’.

Figo, a former FIFA presidential candidate, starts: ‘I could write 10,000 words on the problems at FIFA. But the solution needs only three: Infantino must go.’

He adds: ‘I have loved football all my life. I was a professional player for 20 years. And believe me, I have met some rogues in my time in the game. But what I have seen exposed in the last ten days is the lowest, most deceitful and cravenly self-interested behaviour I have ever witnessed. The man who would do that – the man who would try to force through such major changes just to enrich himself and his friends – is a relic of the game’s past and should have no part in its future.’

The Portuguese, who won 127 caps for his country, then rounds on Infantino for a lack of transparency. ’If it was such a good idea, why not tell your members when you had them all in a room before the World Cup Final?’ he asks.

‘If it was such a robust plan, why not tell your members the risks as well as what you describe as the benefits?

‘If the scheme was a no-brainer, why not be honest about the fact that it was going to give you a $30m a year job at the end of it?’

Figo adds: ‘None of this was done. Because it’s not a good idea. It’s not robust when you fail to be transparent about the crippling returns that private equity always seek.

‘It’s not bold when you fail to explain that once you have sold your share it is gone forever and you have disinherited your successors from ownership of the World Cup.

FIFA legends have reportedly declined to publicly support Infantino amid the backlash to his plans

FIFA legends have reportedly declined to publicly support Infantino amid the backlash to his plans

‘And it’s not honest when you fail to mention that, after you have delivered the head of the World Cup on a platter to your mates in DC, they are going to give you a job worth five times your current salary.’

Figo then highlights FIFA’s staggering level of wealth, asking how many shares the $5billion in its reserves ‘could buy in this grubby, underhand plot’.

‘Infantino has debased the office of FIFA President that he promised to elevate,’ he writes. ‘He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest at the expense of the game he is supposed to serve…he should go. Now.’

According to The Times, allies of Infantino had been trying to persuade ‘FIFA legends’ to publicly support Infantino, but have been unsuccessful.

The FIFA legends are among former international players who have been paid to appear at the governing body’s events.

Camp Rock 3’s Malachi Barton Shines at Variety’s Young Hollywood Gala, Reveals Jonas Brothers’ Key Advice

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Variety rolled out the red carpet to honor the brightest stars shaping the future of entertainment during their 2026 Power of Young Hollywood extravaganza, proudly presented by Disney+. The event spotlighted emerging talents who are capturing audiences worldwide.

This year’s prestigious accolades went to luminaries like actors Malachi Barton, who received the Rising Star Award, and Tyriq Withers, honored with the New Leading Man Award. Grammy nominee Tate McRae took home the Triple Threat Award, while Sombr was celebrated as the Songwriter of the Year.

Malachi Barton, known for his standout start on Disney Channel’s “Stuck in the Middle,” has seamlessly transitioned from playful sibling roles to becoming a sought-after leading man. Appearing in Disney hits such as “ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires” and “Camp Rock 3,” Barton continues to leave his mark on beloved franchises. Fans can also look forward to seeing him in Disney’s “Coven Academy,” a hotly anticipated YA series centered on witchcraft set for release later this year.

But that’s not all for Barton – he is also gearing up to headline the “Worlds Collide Concert Tour.” This exciting event will unite talent from Disney’s famed “Descendants,” “ZOMBIES,” and “Camp Rock” series, promising a sensational concert experience for fans across the nation.

In an exclusive conversation with On The Red Carpet, Barton shared his excitement about receiving the award and reflected on his sky-rocketing career trajectory, describing this time as nothing short of a whirlwind.

“Keep it on the DL, because I’m trying to be nonchalant about it, but like, I’m nervous. Like, are you kidding me? 100%. I’m about to stand up and like, talk, in front of a bunch of people? That’s scary,” he told us. “I usually just talk behind a camera, and then that’s enough, so. I’m excited though. It’s going to be fun. It’s gonna be super chill. I’m like, beyond grateful for it.”

As a rising star, Barton has been endlessly compared to his predecessors, but he’s letting that fuel him.

“It’s such an amazing opportunity to be compared to somebody. I think there’s such a, a negative, like ideal of comparison, but it, like, it can be really cool because like, I take it as a compliment because they’re all so amazing. They’re all so talented. And for me to be able to be the next generation of that is so cool,” he explained. He hopes the generation that follows him will be “looking up to me in the same way, I hope.”

When it comes to those leading men, Barton said the Jonas Brothers have given him some words of wisdom.

“They just told me to like, not take things too seriously, enjoy myself. And it’s such a basic piece of advice. But like in this business, it means more than you know. Like, being able to actually not take things seriously. Just have fun, enjoy yourself, and live in the moment and like, truly cherish every single memory is so, so important.”

You can watch Barton star in “Camp Rock 3,” premiering Aug. 13 on Disney Channel and the next day on Disney+.

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Drone Incident Triggers Shutdown at Major German Airport Supporting NATO and Ukraine Operations

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A significant security alert was triggered on Tuesday night when a drone laden with explosives was discovered near a Ukrainian aircraft at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany. Authorities emphasized on Wednesday that this incident signifies “a new quality of danger,” raising alarm bells across security agencies.

The unexpected discovery led to a temporary closure of both runways at this key European freight hub. As a result, numerous flights had to be rerouted to alternate airports, according to a report by The Associated Press.

In a related event, another aerial object was detected in the vicinity shortly before midnight. This incident necessitated further flight diversions, affecting even one passenger aircraft, which were redirected for safety.

Explosive-disposal robot Leipzig

An airport employee discovered the initial drone near the southern runway of the airport, equipped with “an unknown explosive device,” according to police reports. (Hendrik Schmidt/DPA via AP)

German police launched a large response and opened an investigation into the two incidents.

Police said an airport worker found the first explosive drone near the airport’s south runway with “an unknown explosive device.”

An explosives disposal robot was deployed to examine the device before authorities removed its detonator.

The plane, bearing the blue and yellow colors of the Ukrainian flag, displayed the English-language slogan, “Be Brave Like Kherson,” a tribute to the southern Ukrainian region, Deutsche Welle reported.

In the second incident, an unidentified flying object collided with a cargo aircraft that had aborted its landing at Leipzig/Halle Airport because of the runway closure.

Ukrainian Antonov cargo plane

The plane bore the colors of the Ukrainian flag. (Hendrik Schmidt/DPA via AP)

The aircraft diverted to Hannover Airport, about 125 miles north-west of Leipzig, where officials found minor damage, according to The Associated Press.

German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the discovery of the first drone marked a significant escalation.

“Drone sightings, drone threats, including in a hybrid context, are something we know from the past,” he said. “That a drone armed with explosives is at an airport is a new threat scenario.”

Dobrindt also described the incident as “a hybrid attack scenario.”

He said questions about the type of explosives used, the drone’s origin and who was responsible remained under investigation.

“All the speculation that is currently going on about the explosives, the construction, the question of the drone, the origin and, of course, who is behind it, is now part of the investigation,” Dobrindt said.

“What is happening now also shows that the assessment made months ago — that we are dealing with a high level of danger — was justified.”

In June, Dobrindt opened Germany’s Joint Centre for Countering Hybrid Threats, which brings together federal and state security agencies to address threats including espionage, sabotage and disinformation.

A drone carrying explosives positioned next to a Ukrainian plane at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany.

A drone carrying explosives was found at Germany’s Leipzig/Halle Airport Tuesday night next to a Ukrainian plane, and officials warned the incident represented “a new quality of danger.” (Hendrik Schmidt/DPA via AP)

Leipzig/Halle Airport is a major European cargo hub, and Ukrainian Antonov transport aircraft are based there.

NATO said it was aware of the incidents but referred questions to German authorities.

Ukraine’s ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, suggested Moscow may have been behind the incident, telling Welt TV Wednesday, “Who else could it be but Russia?” according to reports.

In 2024, an incendiary device ignited at a logistics center at Leipzig/Halle Airport, setting fire to a freight container in an incident Western security officials suspect was part of a Russian intelligence sabotage operation.

Florida Diver Dispute: Man Cuts Air in Lobster Spot Clash

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What started as a routine lobster diving trip off the scenic Florida coast spiraled into chaos, culminating in an underwater ordeal. Authorities allege that a diver, in a shocking turn of events, partially shut off the air supply for another diver, leading to arrest on charges of attempted murder.

Michael Joseph Simpson, aged 51, turned himself in to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in Miami-Dade County on Tuesday. Jail records confirm that he was processed in the evening on serious charges of attempted murder, with his bail set at a substantial $10,000.

Local 10 News reports that this dramatic incident unfolded in the early hours, just after 7 a.m. on July 29. It occurred around half a mile east of Fisher Island, right in the thick of Florida’s much-anticipated annual lobster mini season.

As outlined in the arrest affidavit, cited by Law&Crime, Simpson allegedly approached another boat, navigating it at alarming speed. He reportedly circled the boat multiple times before finally anchoring a mere 10 feet away.

Tensions reportedly flared when Simpson accused the divers of encroaching on “his spot.” He also issued a warning about an impending arrival of a larger boat, which subsequently did anchor close by, exacerbating the conflict.

Authorities allege Simpson then threatened to turn off the surface-supplied air system providing oxygen to an 18-year-old diver searching for lobsters.

Investigators say Simpson jumped into the water and intentionally shut off the unit.

As the confrontation unfolded, witnesses yelled, “We have a diver down there you a–hole!” according to the arrest affidavit cited by Law&Crime.

The diver’s boat owner jumped into the water and pulled him to the surface.

The diver was gasping for air and appeared disoriented but was not injured, Local 10 reported.

Investigators allege Simpson left before deputies arrived.

After authorities identified him as the suspect, Simpson voluntarily surrendered Tuesday, according to Local 10.

Simpson’s attorney, Howard Srebnick, strongly denied the allegations in a statement to Fox News Digital, arguing investigators ignored evidence and witnesses he says support his client’s account.

Srebnick said Simpson was diving from his own boat with friends and his two young children and “never disabled anyone’s diving equipment.”

Srebnick said video shows one of the accusers becoming entangled in the Brownie’s Third Lung air system while Simpson “was nowhere near it.”

He also disputed investigators’ allegation that Simpson fled, saying his client instead idled his boat away from the immediate area to avoid escalating the confrontation before cooperating with responding Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers and providing a statement.

Srebnick said numerous eyewitnesses aboard two separate boats corroborated Simpson’s version of events and criticized the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office for arresting his client before interviewing what he described as exculpatory witnesses.

“We are optimistic that the State Attorney’s Office, after reviewing the video and interviewing all the eyewitnesses, will dismiss the charges, clear his name, and restore the reputation he has spent a lifetime building,” Srebnick said.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office for additional comment.

Heartbreaking Story of Single Mom Charged in Hot Car Death Sparks Plea for Compassion

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In a recent legal twist, a Georgia woman facing charges for the tragic death of her infant in a scorching car has her lawyer urging the case be dismissed, citing her severe exhaustion as a factor affecting her judgment.

Deja Coleman, aged 29, was taken into custody last month following the discovery of her one-year-old son, Daniel, lifeless in her car, parked in the staff lot of Northside Gwinnett Hospital, where Coleman worked as a nursing aide.

Faced with a second-degree murder charge, Coleman potentially confronts a harsh mandatory minimum decade-long prison sentence, as stipulated by Georgia state laws.

Tom Ford, her defense attorney, has proactively requested the prosecution to reconsider, arguing that the level of sleep deprivation Coleman experienced was akin to a medical condition, contributing to the unfortunate incident.

Describing the situation as ‘forgotten baby syndrome,’ Ford highlighted in a CBS News interview that this is a recognized occurrence, not born out of neglectful parenting, but rather from the overwhelming exhaustion faced by mothers.

He said Coleman was working nine-hour shifts to support her autistic six-year-old, four-year-old and infant son, with no one at home to help share the burden. Most of that week, he said, she had gone without real sleep because Daniel was teething. 

‘She was in catastrophic failure,’ he said, according to WSB-TV News. ‘Her mind was failing her.’

Ford also revealed that Coleman and her children had been living in a protected domestic violence shelter, arguing that she should be viewed as a victim of abuse rather than prosecuted as a cold-hearted criminal. 

Deja Coleman, 29, of Georgia, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder after her one-year-old son, Daniel, was found dead inside her car. Under state law, the minimum sentence is 10 years if convicted

Deja Coleman, 29, of Georgia, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder after her one-year-old son, Daniel, was found dead inside her car. Under state law, the minimum sentence is 10 years if convicted

Daniel was found dead in his car seat in the employee parking lot of Northside Gwinnett Hospital on July 29, where Coleman worked as a nursing assistant

Daniel was found dead in his car seat in the employee parking lot of Northside Gwinnett Hospital on July 29, where Coleman worked as a nursing assistant 

Coleman's attorney, Tom Ford, urged prosecutors to dismiss the case, arguing that 'medical-grade sleep deprivation' led to the tragedy

Coleman’s attorney, Tom Ford, urged prosecutors to dismiss the case, arguing that ‘medical-grade sleep deprivation’ led to the tragedy 

‘We’ve labeled a grieving mother a murderer,’ Ford said, according to Fox 5 Atlanta News. ‘I would submit there’s no charges at all, because to be tired is not a crime.’

Ford’s push for his client’s freedom comes after Lawrenceville Police responded to Northside Gwinnett Hospital shortly before 4pm on July 29 following reports of an unresponsive child found inside a vehicle.

The call came from an employee who was walking to her own car that afternoon when she spotted a child slumped over in a car seat, police said. 

Authorities forced their way into the vehicle in a desperate attempt to save Daniel, but the one-year-old was tragically already dead.

Coleman told detectives that she believed she had dropped all three of her children off at daycare before driving to work, but never took her baby out of the back seat after parking at the hospital shortly after 6.50am that morning.     

‘There’s not any other reason other than being tired,’ her attorney told WSB-TV. ‘We don’t lock people up because they’re tired. We look at the end result and assume I could not do the same, but we could all do exactly the same.’

Ford described Coleman as a loving mother who suffered a ‘brain glitch,’ arguing that extreme fatigue can trigger neurological responses that cause the brain to rely on autopilot, according to Fox News.   

‘None of us understand what autopilot, the basal ganglia, that’s what takes over. It’s the autopilot portion of your brain,’ he told the outlet.

Coleman's attorney said that most of that week, his client had gone without real sleep because Daniel was teething

Coleman’s attorney said that most of that week, his client had gone without real sleep because Daniel was teething

Ford argued that she was working nine-hour shifts to support her autistic six-year-old, four-year-old and infant son, with no one at home to help share the burden

Ford argued that she was working nine-hour shifts to support her autistic six-year-old, four-year-old and infant son, with no one at home to help share the burden

Ford said that Coleman and her children had been living in a protected domestic violence shelter, arguing that she should be viewed as a victim of abuse rather than a criminal

Ford said that Coleman and her children had been living in a protected domestic violence shelter, arguing that she should be viewed as a victim of abuse rather than a criminal

Ford said the real issue is Georgia’s hot car death laws, which were significantly strengthened following the high-profile case of Justin Ross Harris and the death of his son, Cooper, in 2014.

Harris was sentenced to life in prison without parole in 2016 after his son died after being left inside a hot car for seven hours while temperatures climbed into the mid-80s as Harris worked his shift at Home Depot as a web developer. 

In 2022, the Georgia Supreme Court overturned his murder conviction, ruling that jurors had been exposed to ‘extremely and unfairly prejudicial’ evidence, including claims that he regularly cheated on his ex-wife with prostitutes.

At the time, Cooper’s mother, Leanna Taylor, said the court had made the right decision, describing her ex-husband as a devoted father but a ‘terrible husband.’

Lawrenceville Police responded to Northside Gwinnett Hospital shortly before 4pm after a hospital employee walking to her own car spotted a child slumped over in his car seat

Lawrenceville Police responded to Northside Gwinnett Hospital shortly before 4pm after a hospital employee walking to her own car spotted a child slumped over in his car seat 

Coleman told detectives that she believed she had dropped all three of her children off at daycare before driving to work

Coleman told detectives that she believed she had dropped all three of her children off at daycare before driving to work

Ford said a Coleman suffered a 'brain glitch' and that extreme fatigue can trigger neurological responses that cause the brain to rely on autopilot

Ford said a Coleman suffered a ‘brain glitch’ and that extreme fatigue can trigger neurological responses that cause the brain to rely on autopilot

Ford argued that state laws, tightened in the wake of the Harris case, now disproportionately punish working-class mothers who work hourly jobs – a system he described to Fox News as ‘inhumane.’

‘We don’t lock people up for making a good faith mistake,’ he added, according to WSB-TV.

Instead, he is calling for legislative reforms at both the state and federal levels. 

He said federal lawmakers have the power to mandate vehicle sensors that cost only a few hundred dollars, which he argued could save lives across the country, noting that roughly 35 to 40 children die in hot cars each year nationwide. 

‘The technology exists. We just need lawmakers with a spine that care more about infants,’ he told the outlet.

Ford is now proposing a bill called the Zero Hot Car Infant Deaths Act, which he said would require affordable cabin-screening technology to be installed in vehicles during the manufacturing process, according to CBS News. 

‘The sensor will check if the little baby is even breathing. You can see it’s breathing under the blanket,’ he told the outlet.

‘So, the technology is there. We can put sensors in our car on the rear door so you won’t back over somebody, we can put it inside the car as well.’

Ford blamed Georgia¿s hot car death laws, which were significantly strengthened following the high-profile case of Justin Ross Harris and the death of his son, Cooper, in 2014

Ford blamed Georgia’s hot car death laws, which were significantly strengthened following the high-profile case of Justin Ross Harris and the death of his son, Cooper, in 2014

Harris was sentenced to life in prison without parole in 2016 after his son died from being left inside a hot car for seven hours

Cooper died in his car seat in temperatures reaching the mid-80s, as Harris worked his shift at Home Depot as a web developer

Harris was sentenced to life in prison without parole in 2016 after his son died from being left inside a hot car for seven hours 

In 2022, the Georgia Supreme Court overturned Harris' murder conviction, ruling that jurors had been exposed to 'extremely and unfairly prejudicial' evidence

In 2022, the Georgia Supreme Court overturned Harris’ murder conviction, ruling that jurors had been exposed to ‘extremely and unfairly prejudicial’ evidence 

He said he has taken a proposal to Sen Jon Ossoff and Rep Tim Burchett of Tennessee, calling for new vehicles to have radar sensors that can detect a child in the back seat, sound the horn and lower the windows, according to WSB-TV.

Congress ordered automakers to include rear-seat reminders under the 2021 infrastructure law, but the measure did not require vehicles to actually detect whether a child was inside.

Most automakers have already added reminder systems under a voluntary industry pledge, though the technology typically only alerts drivers to check the back seat rather than detecting the presence of a child.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration missed its November 2023 deadline to finalize the rule, meaning no automaker is currently required to install such technology.

Coleman is scheduled to appear before a judge for a preliminary hearing on August 11. 

Geena Davis, 70, Dazzles with Youthful Glamour in LA

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Geena Davis mesmerized attendees with her ageless allure at the Los Angeles premiere of The Wrong Girls this past Wednesday.

The iconic Thelma and Louise actress, now 70, dazzled in a striking red mini dress at the occasion, which took place at Nela Rd Los Feliz Marijuana and Weed Dispensary.

Posing with a radiant smile, Davis highlighted her remarkably smooth skin, prompting whispers among fans about possible cosmetic enhancements.

The Hollywood starlet—who recently opened up about becoming a mother in her late forties—opted for understated glamour, featuring bronze eyeshadow and subtle lip gloss.

Completing her ensemble, Davis paired her outfit with edgy black boots and a whimsical orange handbag designed to resemble a fish.

But despite the eye-popping accessory, it was her ageless looks that had fans talking. 

Geena Davis, 70, stunned fans with her age-defying appearance at the Los Angeles premiere of The Wrong Girls on Wednesday

Geena Davis, 70, stunned fans with her age-defying appearance at the Los Angeles premiere of The Wrong Girls on Wednesday

The Thelma and Louise star looked incredible in a bright red mini dress as she posed at the event

The Thelma and Louise star looked incredible in a bright red mini dress as she posed at the event

‘Forget the purse, how the hell does she look this fabulous? I’ll have what she’s having,’ one fan wrote on Reddit.

‘God I wish I look that good at 70’, another added.

‘You can definitely tell she’s had some work done but it’s not over the top at all. It looks incredibly natural! She is stunning!’ yet another commentator added.

‘She did a great job of balancing plastic surgery with keeping her natural features. She’s 70 and she looks incredible!’ another chimed in.

‘She looks wonderful.’

‘She is 70 and looking like this, absolutely gorgeous.’

‘Why do I feel like if Geena Davis and I were after the same guy, she’d win? (She’s almost twice my age),’ another joked.

Davis stars as Dr. Chapman in The Wrong Girls, a stoner comedy that’s set to be released on August 14. 

The brunette beauty looked like she hadn't aged a day since her 1980s heyday

Seen in a throwback from the 1980s

The brunette beauty looked like she hadn’t aged a day since her 1980s heyday; (R) Seen in a throwback from the 1980s

The actress flashed a smile while showing off her incredibly smooth complexion, leading some fans to speculate that she may have had a little cosmetic help

The actress flashed a smile while showing off her incredibly smooth complexion, leading some fans to speculate that she may have had a little cosmetic help

She wore delicate glam, including bronze eyeshadow and a touch of gloss on her lips

She happily posed on the red carpet

She wore delicate glam, including bronze eyeshadow and a touch of gloss on her lips

Davis accessorized her look with chunky black boots and a unique orange purse in the shape of a fish

Davis accessorized her look with chunky black boots and a unique orange purse in the shape of a fish

But despite the eye-popping accessory, it was her ageless looks that had fans talking

But despite the eye-popping accessory, it was her ageless looks that had fans talking

Other stars at Wednesday's event included Davis's co-star Kristen Stewart, 36, who showed off her usual edgy style

Other stars at Wednesday’s event included Davis’s co-star Kristen Stewart, 36, who showed off her usual edgy style 

The Twilight star wore an unbuttoned white shirt paired with loose black pants, white socks, and green and black sneakers

The Twilight star wore an unbuttoned white shirt paired with loose black pants, white socks, and green and black sneakers

The film is the directorial debut of Stewart's wife, Dylan Meyer (center); They are pictured with Alia Shawkat

The film is the directorial debut of Stewart’s wife, Dylan Meyer (center); They are pictured with Alia Shawkat

Meyer wore a white t-shirt paired with a black blazer and loose black pants for the occasion

Meyer wore a white t-shirt paired with a black blazer and loose black pants for the occasion

Shawkat donned a bright green dress and peep-toe heels

Shawkat donned a bright green dress and peep-toe heels

Tony Hale - who also stars in the film - was in attendance as well

Tony Hale – who also stars in the film – was in attendance as well

Other stars at Wednesday’s event included Davis’s co-star Kristen Stewart, 36, who showed off her usual edgy style. 

The Twilight star wore an unbuttoned white shirt paired with loose black pants, white socks, and green and black sneakers. 

The film is the directorial debut of Stewart’s wife, Dylan Meyer.

Meyer wore a white t-shirt paired with a black blazer and loose black pants for the occasion. 

The Wrong Girls also features Cate Blanchett, Alia Shawkat, Seth Rogen, Kumail Nanjiani, LaKeith Stanfield, and Tony Hale.

Shawkat donned a bright green dress and peep-toe heels for the event. 

The plot of the film follows ‘two aimless young women’ who ‘inadvertently gain telepathic abilities after ingesting an experimental drug, pitting them against dangerous rivals pursuing the same powerful substance.’