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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
Background: The home in Riverview, Fla., where Hiojaira Mercedes Velez-Bonilla was allegedly murdered (WTVT). Insets (left to right): Andre Gerhardt and Giselle Santiago-Bonilla (Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department).
A third individual has been taken into custody in connection with the 2025 murder of a Florida woman, following the recent plea deal of another suspect involved in the case.
In February, Giselle Santiago-Bonilla, aged 38, admitted guilt to several charges, including being an accessory after the fact, tampering with a witness, tampering with evidence, and illegally moving a corpse. These charges are tied to the stabbing death of her cousin, Hiojaira Mercedes Velez-Bonilla, who was 41. Earlier reports from Law&Crime indicated that Velez-Bonilla was allegedly killed by Santiago-Bonilla’s partner, 43-year-old Arnaldo Cintron, during a dispute over financial matters and household responsibilities.
Authorities revealed that Velez-Bonilla’s boyfriend, 30-year-old Elga Davis II, attempted to flee the scene, but Santiago-Bonilla allegedly stopped him. After Velez-Bonilla’s death, the couple reportedly coerced Davis into disguising himself in her wig and dress to aid in disposing of her body.
On February 26, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of a third suspect, 33-year-old Andre Gerhardt, linked to the crime. According to court documents obtained by Law&Crime, Gerhardt was previously identified only by the alias “Tarzan.” He is accused of assisting Cintron and Santiago-Bonilla in devising a plan to dispose of Velez-Bonilla’s body. Gerhardt faces charges of unlawfully moving a dead body, carrying a concealed weapon as a felon, being an accessory after the fact, and committing burglary.
Law&Crime’s earlier coverage included testimony from Davis during a pretrial detention hearing for Cintron, who faces charges of first-degree murder, unlawfully moving a dead body, tampering with evidence, and witness tampering. Davis recounted that Cintron and Santiago-Bonilla threatened him with being the next victim unless he aided in cleaning up the crime scene.
After the three of them spent around four hours cleaning up the scene, Velez-Bonilla’s body was stuffed into a cardboard box that was wrapped in black mesh. Davis testified that he “just did as [he] was told” when he forced his girlfriend’s body to fit into the box.
Fearing for his life, he then complied with the demand by Cintron and Santiago-Bonilla to wear one of his dead girlfriend’s wigs and one of her long dresses while he drove them all and the body to the apartment of a man known as “Tarzan.”
Before formalizing her plea deal, Santiago-Bonilla identified Gerhardt as “Tarzan” and confirmed that he assisted in disposing of Velez-Bonilla’s body, according to court documents. Gerhardt told police after he was arrested on Feb. 24 that he assisted in helping Cintron, Santiago-Bonilla, and Davis remove the box containing the body from the car and drag it out into the mangroves. Police said he knew what was inside the box, and he admitted that he never contacted law enforcement.
Cintron remains in custody at the Falkenburg Road Jail. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 18, the same day Gerhardt is scheduled to appear in court.
Santiago-Bonilla is scheduled to be sentenced on April 29.
Natalia Grace, a Ukrainian woman with dwarfism embroiled in controversy for allegedly deceiving her adoptive parents about her age, has initiated a lawsuit against Disney. The case touches on themes of defamation and emotional distress, adding another chapter to her complex story.
In the 2025 Hulu series “Good American Family,” Grace’s life was dramatized with Imogen Faith Reid stepping into her shoes, while Ellen Pompeo portrayed her adoptive mother, Kristine Barnett. The series, which aired under the Disney umbrella, has now become a focal point of Grace’s legal action.
According to a report by TMZ, Grace, who is believed to be around 24 years old, claims the show falsely depicted her as a conniving and dangerous figure. She argues that her character was unfairly labeled as “deceptive, dangerous, manipulative, dishonest, not truly a child, and responsible for acts of abuse, violence, or attempted violence.”
Although the series included a disclaimer indicating that certain events were fictionalized, Grace contends that this notice falls short in shielding the company from liability. She asserts that the blurred lines between fact and fiction in the narrative leave viewers with a misleading impression of her true character, as outlined in legal documents reviewed by the website.
Despite the show’s disclaimer that some events were fictionalized, Grace believes it isn’t enough to protect the company, she said in documents seen by the site, as it’s unclear which parts were real and which were made up.
The Daily Mail has contacted representatives for Disney and Hulu to request comment.
Natalia Grace, the Ukrainian woman with dwarfism accused of lying about her age and ‘tormenting’ her adoptive parents, is suing Disney
Grace was portrayed by Imogen Faith Reid in 2025’s Hulu series Good American Family, starring Ellen Pompeo as her mother Kristine Barnett
TMZ reported that Grace filed the lawsuit without a lawyer and is seeking unspecified damages.
Grace also stated in her filing, per the news outlet, that Disney purposely or haphazardly framed the series to highlight the accusations against her.
She claims it was only later that the company revealed details about her being abused as a child.
The first four episodes of the miniseries follow Kristine, who believes a 22-year-old infiltrated her family while claiming she was only six.
The second half envisions the events from Grace’s perspective – a victim of cruelty who is mistreated and abandoned.
When Kristine and husband Michael Barnett decided to adopt a six-year-old girl in 2010 in the hope of expanding their family, they felt nothing but ‘overwhelming love’ for their new daughter.
Grace had already been adopted once before, just two years prior, but the parents rescinded their rights, citing her disruptive behavior.
Kristine and Michael decided to raise her alongside their three biological sons in New Hampshire.
The following years saw a shocking breakdown in the relationship, with Kristine and Michael accusing the adoptee of pretending to be a child and lying about her real age, even claiming she tried to kill them. After seeking advice from a family physician, they fought to have her birth date changed from 2003 to 1989, claiming she was an adult when they adopted her.
Grace has denied all accusations against her, and the couple was charged with neglect after moving to Canada and allegedly leaving her at an apartment in Lafayette. They were eventually acquitted of the charges.
Join the debate
How should stories based on real people handle the balance between truth and creative license?
The limited series starred Ellen Pompeo as Grace’s adoptive mom Kristine Barnett
Grace, estimated to be 24 years old, is going after Disney and Hulu for defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress
L-R Jerod Haynes, Imogen Reid, and Christina Hendricks in a scene from Good American Family
For years, Grace was defended by Bishop Antwon and Cynthia Mans, who eventually became her third set of adoptive parents in June 2023.
In January 2024 she insisted she was doing ‘okay’ after her latest adoptive family said they were ‘done’ with her in the finale of her documentary The Confessions Of Natalia Grace: Natalia Speaks.
She wrote on a GoFundMe page at the time that she had moved out and was trying to raise money for spinal surgery.
‘I recently moved out and I’m saving money to get my own house so I can have a personal place of my own,’ she shared. ‘I am wanting to start my own photography business to create a fun and awesome way to have fun and do what I love which is taking pictures and creating memories for myself and other people!’
She also explained that the spinal surgery she wants to have done isn’t covered by her medical insurance and costs ‘in excess of $500,000.’
‘I have a type of dwarfism called Diastrophic Dysplasia — a form of dwarfism that has many serious issues which often require surgery,’ she wrote. ‘The first treatment I need is to have my spine corrected as if I leave it too long it could lead to paralysis and incontinence.’
GREENVILLE, S.C. (WCIA) – The Illinois men’s basketball team is gearing up for a shot at advancing to the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament, a milestone they aim to reach for the second time under head coach Brad Underwood.
Following their commanding victory over Penn in the Round of 64, the Illini are set to face off against VCU this Saturday.
“I hope we stay focused throughout the entire 40 minutes,” shared Illinois freshman forward Mirkovic on Friday. “I feel confident about where we are right now.”
Mirkovic made a strong impression in his first NCAA Tournament appearance on Thursday, achieving a remarkable 29 points and 17 rebounds.
VCU enters the game with a 28-7 record, having staged a dramatic 19-point comeback to defeat North Carolina in the tournament’s opening round, after securing an automatic bid by triumphing over Dayton in the Atlantic 10 Championship.
The Rams are led by Terrence Hill Jr., who averages 14.9 points per game and scored 34 in their recent overtime win against the Tar Heels.
Saturday’s game is set for a 6:50 p.m. CT tip-off on TNT.
An Oklahoma resident with a substantial criminal past has been taken into custody following accusations of breaking into a family’s residence and joining their child in bed.
Police were dispatched to a home in Oklahoma City after Josh Hodnik was roused from his sleep by his 11-year-old son, who reported finding an unfamiliar man in his bed on Saturday, March 14, as reported by KOKH.
“My son woke me up, and he said, ‘Hey, there’s a man in my bed,’” Hodnik shared with the news outlet.
Initially, Hodnik dismissed his son’s claim, considering it to be nothing more than a bad dream or a figment of the child’s imagination.
Charles Bradford faces charges of first-degree burglary along with five misdemeanor counts for allegedly intruding into the family’s home while they slept in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on Saturday, March 14, as reported by KOKH. (Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office)
“It just kind of shocked me, shook me,” Hodnik said. “I was like, ‘What, what do you, what do you mean?’ I thought he was sleepwalking and, and, and he mistook, he was imagining things or whatever.”
However, when Hodnik went to check the bedroom, he realized his son was telling the truth.
“There was a grown man laying in the bed,” Hodnik said, KOKH reported. “He brought his own blanket, had one sock on, no shoes on.”
Authorities were called to a home in Oklahoma City after Josh Hodnik was jolted awake by his 11-year-old son who told him there was a strange man in his bed on Saturday, March 14, according to KOKH. (iStock)
Hodnik recalled his two children playing outside in the family’s yard the night before the incident. When the kids came back inside, the father said they did not lock the front door and he failed to check it before going to bed.
“I didn’t go check the front door after they played outside on Friday night,” Hodnik told KOKH. “And that was my fault. I wish I would have, but I shouldn’t have to. OK? We shouldn’t live in a society where somebody else walks into your front door.”
Following Charles Bradford’s arrest, local reports uncovered his lengthy criminal history, including multiple arrests on assault and larceny charges.(iStock)
The man, identified as 46-year-old Charles Bradford, was subsequently taken into custody and charged with first-degree burglary and five misdemeanors, according to the outlet.
Following his arrest, local reports uncovered Bradford’s lengthy criminal history, including multiple arrests on assault and larceny charges.
In 2002, Bradford was convicted of first-degree manslaughter after killing his cellmate while in prison, KOKH reported.
The revelation surrounding Bradford’s past left Hodnik questioning how the repeat offender was allowed to walk the streets freely.
“The guy should not have been on the street, period. He killed his cellmate. Guy has like 12 violent crimes, assault on an officer, assault on a medical staff, over and over and over and over. And then just let this guy walk out free,” Hodnik reportedly said.
Following his most recent conviction in Oklahoma City, the district attorney’s office told KOKH Bradford had pleaded into a mental health court because officials determined the stability and treatment would benefit him.
However, officials are reportedly evaluating his ability to continue as a participant in light of the new charges filed against him.
“He doesn’t need to be on the street,” Hodnik told the outlet. “You know, I felt bad for the guy, when the issue happened. But at the same time he came into my home and laid in my kid’s bed, and it was all I could do to not kill the guy.”
Bradford remains in custody at the Cleveland County Detention Center on $75,000 bond, according to court records obtained by Fox News Digital.
The Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
Julia Bonavita is a U.S. Writer for Fox News Digital and a Fox Flight Team drone pilot. You can follow her at @juliabonavita13 on all platforms and send story tips to julia.bonavita@fox.com.
ORLANDO, Fla. – As the last weekend of spring break approaches in Central Florida, the lingering chill of late-season coolness is finally retreating.
Highs Saturday
Temperatures, which had been unseasonably low, are set to climb back to the comfortable low 80s.
The weekend promises plenty of sunshine, making for perfect outdoor weather.
Earlier in the week, strong winds were a notable presence, but they are expected to subside significantly over Saturday and Sunday.
Looking ahead, the forecast indicates that temperatures will remain in the mid-80s throughout the week. The next chance for rain is anticipated on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Wind Saturday
Highs stay in the middle 80s through the week ahead. The next shot at rain doesn’t roll around until Tuesday and Wednesday.
If your plans take you the beach, be mindful that a high rip current risk remains.
Expect breaking waves of about 3-5′ Saturday.
Highs will be around 80 with water temperatures in the upper 60s.
Copyright 2026 by WKMG ClickOrlando – All rights reserved.
About the Author
Jonathan Kegges headshot
Jonathan Kegges
Jonathan Kegges joined the News 6 team in June 2019 and now covers weather on TV and all digital platforms.
Fanatics Studios threw a star-studded VIP party in Los Angeles on Thursday evening, drawing an elite crowd.
Among those present at the opening dinner for the Fanatics Flag Football Classic at Alba LA were Tom Brady, Kendall Jenner, and Hailey Bieber.
The legendary quarterback, who boasts seven Super Bowl titles, mingled with his usual circle of friends, as well as other renowned athletes and celebrities who graced the intimate gathering.
Jenner and Bieber enjoyed the evening, posing for photos with other attendees.
They even captured a moment with New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin, and OBB Media CEO Michael D. Ratner.
Nearby, Jay-Z was spotted smiling and chatting with guests at the event while paparazzi snapped pics of NFL star Joe Burrow and model Olivia Ponton outside of the venue. Ponton and Burrow wore coordinating white ensembles for the intimate, invite-only party.
The sighting put fans in a frenzy, with many wondering whether the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback and the model reignited a spark after months of on-again, off-again romance rumors.
An eyewitness also spotted Ponton supporting Burrow at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic draft Wednesday night, which was held at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills.
Thursday’s bash truly brought out the best of the best, as even Mick Jagger was in attendance. Cameras caught the legendary Rolling Stones frontman bonding with Travis Scott at the soirée.
Meanwhile, “Saltburn” star Barry Keoghan chatted it up with Kevin Hart, and the actor was also seen hanging with Brady.
Other athletes in attendance included Stefon Diggs, Rob Gronkowski, Odell Beckham Jr., Jalen Hurts, Davante Adams, DeVonta Smith, Saquon Barkley and Logan Paul.
The star-studded party served as an early celebration for the upcoming Fanatics Flag Football Classic, happening Saturday at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.
The first-of-its-kind competition includes three 12-player teams: Founders FFC (captained by Brady and Hurts), Wildcats FFC (captained by Burrow and Daniels) and the US National Flag Team (captained by Darrell “Housh” Doucette III and Nico Casares).
Brady and Hurts’ team includes Diggs, Gronkowski and Smith, while Burrow and Daniels’ team consists of Paul, Barkley, Beckham Jr. and more.
The players were selected in a live draft that Page Six attended earlier this week in Beverly Hills, Calif.
At one point, Brady and Paul exchanged jabs at each other during a heated moment on stage, further escalating the feud that began last month at the Fanatics Super Bowl red carpet in San Francisco.
“I’ve got to be honest, I’ve never been to a draft where I laughed so hard,” Rubin exclusively told Page Six Wednesday night. “Tom Brady talking smack … I thought Logan Paul and [Rob] Gronkowski were just going to kill each other a few minutes ago … we’re going to need extra security around those guys!”
“The funny thing is, Brady’s like a brother to me, and I love Logan as well. They’re like serious right now,” he added, noting that he’s just going to let the competitiveness play out. “But Saturday night [after the game], I’m going to make them drink a couple shots each, make up and be friends again.”
Reality TV star Sophie Kasaei has candidly opened up about her emotional struggles with “gender disappointment” during her pregnancy. The former Geordie Shore personality is expecting a baby boy this summer but has expressed feelings of sadness and dissatisfaction.
Sophie, 36, and her partner, Jordan Brooks, 31, previously celebrated the news of their baby boy with an elaborate gender reveal party earlier this year. However, despite the joyous occasion, Sophie has revealed that she is grappling with mixed emotions following a challenging two-year journey to conceive.
In a heartfelt moment on her newly launched podcast, “Shall We,” co-hosted with fellow reality star Holly Hagan, Sophie admitted to feeling “low and miserable.” The pair delved into the topic of gender disappointment, offering an honest conversation about the complexities of pregnancy emotions.
But after a two-year fertility battle, Sophie held back tears as she admitted she is struggling and ‘feeling low and miserable’.
Speaking on her new podcast, Shall We, with co-star Holly Hagan, the duo discussed gender disappointment.
Sophie said: ‘This is everything I’ve ever wanted, why do I feel this low and miserable? I just don’t like this feeling like I don’t know what the hell I’m gonna do.’
Later discussing the gender reveal party, Sophie said: ‘This is just amazing and magical but then I was like, “There’s blue”.’
Pregnant Sophie Kasaei has revealed she is miserable and struggling with ‘gender disappointment’ over her unborn baby who is due this summer
The TV star and boyfriend Jordan Brooks shared they are expecting a baby boy after hosting an extravagant gender party, she said: ‘This is just amazing but then I was like, “There’s blue”‘
Holly reassured Sophie: ‘Gender disappointment is absolutely a thing I see it all the time on social media’.
Sophie replied: ‘I think people shouldn’t be knocked down for that.’
It comes as Sophie’s boyfriend Jordan said he is ‘praying for a miracle’ as he battles a brain issue in hospital.
The TOWIE star, 31, revealed on Sunday that he was admitted to hospital over the weekend and has ‘swelling of the brain’.
In a new update on Friday, Sophie revealed she can now visit Jordan in hospital after it was revealed he isn’t ‘contagious’.
She wrote: ‘As hard as this is I am finally allowed to see my Jords as there’s nothing contagious. His strength is just amazing and we will get through this as a family.
‘Thank you for all your well wishes we are all praying for a more positive day’.
Earlier this week, Jordan is still in hospital and took to Instagram to share a black and white photo of himself lying in bed.
Alongside it, he wrote: ‘Another day in paradise. Praying for a better one or some sort of miracle.’ He didn’t go into any further detail about his current condition.
But after a two-year fertility battle, Sophie held back tears as she admitted she is struggling and ‘feeling low and miserable’ after finding out her unborn baby’s gender
It comes as Sophie gave a health update on boyfriend Jordan after he said he is ‘praying for a miracle’ as he battles a brain issue in hospital
In a previous update from hospital, he told his followers: ‘Unfortunately this is still the view for me. This seems to be a never ending hell at moment.
‘I’m awaiting results from a procedure. Once we get them more will be cleared up– what we do know is I have confirmed inflammation and swelling of the brain.
‘A really scary time that reassures you we are all human.
‘Hoping to rest up and be fighting fit and back home with my girl and bump, soon but at the minute seems a long way off
‘Thank you for everyone’s continued messages of love and support I’m sorry I haven’t got back to everyone I have been extremely weak.
‘I also apologise to any work clients hate letting people down I will be back as soon as I can’.
Phil Campbell, renowned for his dynamic guitar work with Motörhead, has passed away at the age of 64 on March 13, 2026. According to his family, he died peacefully after enduring an extended stay in intensive care following a complicated major surgery.
Details regarding the nature of the surgery have been kept confidential at the request of his family. This development followed the cancellation of scheduled performances by Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons in February 2026, which hinted at underlying health issues.
Motörhead Guitarist Phil Campbell Dies at 64 Following Courageous Battle in Intensive Care
His struggle during these final weeks was profound. His sons, Todd, Dane, and Tyla, paid tribute to him as a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather in a touching message shared on the band’s Facebook page.
Campbell became a vital part of Motörhead in 1984, just as the band reached the height of its popularity. For over three decades, the Welsh musician left an indelible mark on heavy metal with his electrifying guitar riffs, collaborating closely with Lemmy Kilmister and others.
Who Was Phil Campbell? The Welsh Rock Legend’s 31 Years with Motörhead
Born in 1961 in Pontypridd, Wales, Campbell honed his craft in various local bands before being recruited by Lemmy. His entry into Motörhead during the 1980s played a crucial role in solidifying the band’s lineup during a pivotal era of their career.
The band sold over 30 million albums worldwide, with hits like Ace of Spades cementing their status. He contributed to 15 studio albums, his dual-guitar attack with Würzel driving tracks such as “Killed by Death.”
One anecdote captures his spirit: during a chaotic 1987 tour, he once fixed a busted amp mid-set with duct tape, keeping the show alive. Fans still share that clip online.
Phil Campbell and the Bastard Sons: His Final Musical Chapter with His Children
Post-Motörhead’s 2015 disbandment after Lemmy’s death, he launched this project in 2016. Featuring sons Tyla, Todd, and Dane, it blended raw energy with family bonds.
They released four albums, including We’re the Bastards in 2020. Recent tours drew packed houses, proving his fire never dimmed. That February cancellation hit hard, prioritizing recovery.
Full Family Statement: Sons Pay Tribute to Devoted Husband, Father and Grandfather
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Philip Anthony Campbell,” read the post. “His legacy, his music, and the memories he created with so many will live on forever.”
The black-and-white photo accompanying it showed him grinning onstage. This raw honesty resonated, amassing thousands of shares within hours.
Tributes Pour In for Phil Campbell: Rock World Mourns Motörhead Icon
Mikkey Dee, Motörhead’s drummer, called him “one of the funniest and most talented” he’d known. Official band pages echoed: “Phil had Motörhead in his blood… he led with his heart.”
Fans flooded social media with clips of “Overkill” solos. Alice Cooper and Judas Priest members posted condolences, highlighting his tour camaraderie.
Remembering Phil Campbell’s Legacy: From Joining Motörhead in 1984 to Heavy Metal History
He co-wrote staples and guested on projects like Girlschool’s work. Motörhead’s 2005 Grammy for Best Heavy Metal Performance nodded to his era.
Statistics underscore impact: the band’s 20+ year streak of UK chart entries owes much to his consistency. His humor shone in interviews, like joking about surviving Lemmy’s whiskey-fueled rehearsals.
Phil Campbell Health Struggle: What We Know About His Final Days and Major Surgery
Privacy shields the operation’s nature. Yet, his sons’ words paint a fighter undeterred till the end. Earlier 2026 signals foreshadowed this, yet he pushed for shows.
No prior public health disclosures existed, keeping focus on music.
How Phil Campbell’s Death Impacts the Rock Community in 2026
Losing him follows Lemmy and Würzel, thinning Motörhead’s core. Younger acts cite him as influence; expect tribute gigs soon.
The scene feels it acutely, with 2026 tours now dedicating sets. His absence prompts reflection on metal’s aging pioneers.
Phil Campbell Will Live On: His Music, Memories and Enduring Influence
Tracks like “Rock Out” blast eternally. Family carries the torch via the Bastard Sons, ensuring his riffs echo.
As one fan noted, “He lived loud.” That truth guarantees his place in heavy metal lore.
The evening was set to be a magnificent State Banquet, celebrating the presence of Nigeria’s president and his wife. The event promised to be a showcase of grandeur and tradition, with senior royals gathering at Windsor Castle. Guests indulged in a sumptuous meal accompanied by canapés and mocktails, topped off by the unveiling of an official portrait of the Prince and Princess of Wales, resplendent in their elegant attire. All seemed perfect for such a prestigious occasion.
However, not everyone shared the enthusiasm. Comments below our online coverage the following morning reflected a rather mixed reception to the formal portrait of William and Catherine. The Princess, adorned with Diana’s tiara and a stunning gown in Nigerian green by the renowned designer Andrew Gn, stood alongside the Prince, yet the feedback was less than flattering.
A reader questioned, “And this benefits the British public, how?”
Another remarked, “Another taxpayer-funded knees-up for the elite,” further noting, “They are not hanging about spending our money this year.”
One comment humorously suggested, “Those are waxworks, aren’t they?”
‘Criminal, given all that is going on in the world.’
To be frank, the commentators have not got it wrong. Is this really the right time for a State Banquet, with photos posted online of the elaborate, over-the-top tablescaping that would put Downton Abbey to shame? This, when ordinary Brits already weighed down by the cost of living, worry about what is to come in the Middle East and how it will affect their energy bills, food shop and mortgages.
And do we really need yet another ‘Official Portrait’, this one taken by a young Nigerian-born photographer, Christianah Ebenezer? Perhaps the Palace thought that the wide grins of the Prince and Princess of Wales would gloss over the Royal Family’s tone-deaf roboticism of recent weeks.
Do we really need yet another ‘Official Portrait’, this one taken by a young Nigerian-born photographer, Christianah Ebenezer?, asks Liz Jones
The Prince and Princess of Wales with President of Nigeria Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel
The Royal Family is in crisis and William and Kate are behaving like ostriches. They need to step up, stop hiding behind medals, jewels and portrait photographers, writes Liz Jones
I imagine Kate’s face must be aching with all the performative gurning. There the couple were at the recent Baftas, failing to read the room that was more concerned with their Uncle Andrew’s arrest. Facing accusations of misconduct in public office, his homes had been searched and his emails scoured, yet on the Waleses ploughed.
There was Kate again, beaming as she handed out shamrocks to members of the Irish Guards and their Irish wolfhound mascot on St Patrick’s Day. But who cares? Is this the most urgent thing she could think to spend time on?
William, too, has been out and about in public: most notably, he appeared on a podcast to discuss his own male mental anguish when serving as a search and rescue pilot. Yet a heartfelt statement expressing support for the victims of Andrew’s friend, the late convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, came there none. Merely expressing your agreement for King Charles’s terse statement following Andrew’s arrest does not cut the mustard.
William and Kate’s down-with-the-people routine – ordinary, relatable, open and honest about mental health, cancer, being parents – rings hollow when they keep schtum over a senior member of their family behaving badly.
It isn’t enough to shun their cousins Eugenie and Beatrice – which amounts to little more than banning the sisters from royal carriage rides at Ascot and Sandringham Christmases. Oh, boo hoo. Those privileges mean nothing to the rest of us.
The Royal Family is in crisis and William and Kate are behaving like ostriches. They need to step up, stop hiding behind medals, jewels and portrait photographers. Being a senior royal, our future monarchs, means more than rubbing shoulders with Leo DiCaprio at the Baftas as though nothing has changed. Because everything has changed: we need reassurance, gravitas, action, real consequences. What did you know and when? And why did you do nothing about the Andrew problem until your hands were forced?
It’s little wonder that people are beginning to see William and Kate as mannequins – and not just in their Official Portrait.
Show us how worried you are. Tell us how sorry you are. Stop being myopic. You are young parents; you have a daughter, for goodness’ sake. The time for ceremony and protocol is over, because you need to be frank with us: we can take it!
As one commentator wrote of the couple’s appearance in the new official photo: ‘The Royal Ken and Barbie.’ Now is the time to show us you are not made of plastic. That you are made of steel.
The aroma of fragrant rice fills the air, wafting from the kitchen into the dining area of a cozy Persian eatery in the northern suburbs of Sydney. This delightful scent is more than a culinary invitation; it serves as a poignant reminder of a celebration that, for many, brings a mix of happiness and sorrow this year.
Inside, the restaurant’s team is busy preparing for Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, a time-honored tradition.
“A popular dish during this celebration is fish,” shares Parya Zaghand, co-owner of Tida Persian restaurant, with SBS News.
“We blend fresh herbs with saffron-infused rice, and while in Iran we would use the exquisite fish from the Caspian Sea, here we opt for barramundi,” she explains.
This weekend, patrons will come together to enjoy meals and exchange gifts, participating in rituals that date back millennia, marking the arrival of the spring equinox.
For many in the Iranian Australian community, this year’s Nowruz is tempered by the devastation unfolding back home. Source: SBS / Sandra Fulloon
“For us Iranians, Nowruz basically means new life, new year, new everything,” says Laleh Mirian, a customer at the restaurant.
However, for many in Australia’s roughly 85,000-strong Iranian diaspora, this year’s festivities are also tinged with sorrow.
“We have very mixed feelings, very scary feelings, because war has caused such devastation,” Mirian says.
As missiles and bombs fall across the Middle East, many fear for loved ones, especially those living in Iran. Zaghand’s family lives just outside Iran’s capital, Tehran.
As war escalates, Sydney-based restaurateur Parya Zaghand is worried about her loved ones in Iran. Source: SBS / Sandra Fulloon
“I haven’t spoken to mum and dad for days,” she says, her eyes filling with tears.
“We wake up every morning to read news of bombs falling right around the corner from where my parents live.
“There is so much uncertainty at the moment.”
The regional conflict closely follows the mass killing of protesters across Iran earlier this year. Thousands more civilians remain in detention in Iran’s prisons.
At least 7,000 people were killed during the protests, according to the United States-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), which is investigating another 11,700 suspected deaths.
Iranian authorities have disputed these figures and say the number of casualties is just over 3,000, including security forces personnel.
Community is going through ‘traumatic’ times
Queensland-based academic Rana Dadpour, spokesperson for advocacy group AusIran, says Nowruz holds a deeply symbolic role within the Iranian Australian community, representing a time for mutual support, solidarity and coming together.
“Our community is going through a very traumatic experience after everything that has happened in Iran, including the January massacres, where thousands of people were killed,” she tells SBS News.
In recent weeks, an internet blackout in Iran — following 28 February US-Israeli strikes — has disconnected millions worldwide from their families and Iranians from the outside world.
Parya Zaghand and her partner, Milad, opened a Persian restaurant in Sydney’s north three years ago. Source: SBS / Sandra Fulloon
Zaghand migrated from Iran in 2008 and, three years ago, opened the restaurant with her partner, Milad Amiri. She says retaining a connection to culture brings comfort amid uncertainty.
“Emotions come and go like the wind and friendships are falling apart in the community, because people are going through grief, anger and rage,” she says.
“So, it is more important than ever that we sit together, we eat, we laugh, we cheer and we celebrate.”
What is Nowruz?
Nowruz — No-Ruz or Farsi for “new day” — is an ancient festival celebrating the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. It is observed on the day of the spring equinox, when the day and night are of equal length, which usually falls between March 19 and 21.
The festival is rooted in Zoroastrianism, a religion practised in ancient Persia that predates Christianity and Islam.
Nowruz includes family gatherings and parties with lots of special food and poetry to welcome the new dawn. The celebrations last 13 days and offer an opportunity to reflect on the past and set intentions for the future.
“Nowruz is about staying together and being with the family and keeping the flame of that tradition alive,” Zaghand says.
Many people take part in the vibrant tradition of Chaharshanbe Suri, where they jump over small fires during Nowruz celebrations.
In the lead-up to Nowruz, many people take part in the vibrant tradition of Chaharshanbe Suri, jumping over fires in a symbolic act of renewal. The ritual is believed to burn away the hardships and negativity of the past year, making way for a fresh start.
Fire itself holds deep spiritual meaning, especially in Zoroastrianism, where it represents warmth, energy, and the creative power of the divine.
Despite its cultural significance, in Iran the practice has faced increasing restrictions. Iranian authorities have long discouraged the celebrations, and this year, public gatherings for fire festivals have been banned altogether.
In Australia, the current conflict has also reshaped how Nowruz is observed. Some community events have been cancelled or postponed, while others have shifted focus toward solidarity and mutual support.
Even so, many families continue to honour the occasion at home, maintaining cherished traditions such as setting up a Haft-Seen table adorned with symbolic items that reflect hope, renewal, and prosperity.
“We put seven things [on the table] that start with the [Persian] letter ‘S’ in Farsi,” Zaghand explains.
“Sumac [Persian spice], for example, which brings zest of life, which is the renewal of life.
“We also have a tub of wheatgrass sprouts, the green shoots called Sabzeh symbolise the rejuvenation of nature.”
The Haft-Seen table is a central tradition of Nowruz, symbolising renewal, abundance, and prosperity. Source: SBS / Sandra Fulloon
For many, celebrating Nowruz is not about ignoring pain and loss but protecting what generations have fought to defend.
“These traditions have, for thousands of years, remained part of our identity,” Zaghand says.
Of kindness and community
Across the world, more than 300 million people from diverse ethnic, linguistic, and religious backgrounds are taking part in Nowruz celebrations.
Dadpour says eating together and reading poetry with loved ones late into the night helps ease anxiety during the ongoing war in the Middle East.
“Cultural and historical celebrations really help people to overcome fear and loss,” she says.
“Nowruz also helps people to get closer, to show kindness to each other and to realise that they are not alone and the community.”
Hope for renewal
Restaurateur Parya Zaghand says hospitality is central to Persian culture. Source: SBS / Spencer Austad
Zaghland is among those hoping that spring in the Northern Hemisphere leads to positive change in a troubled region.
“There has been so much loss, so much blood that has been shed. But spring doesn’t wait: winter ends, and Nowruz always comes, for us to celebrate life again.
“So, this year we are honouring people who have lost their lives for the betterment of the future of our motherland, Iran.”
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