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Australian Shark Attack Victim Identified as Greg O’Neill

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Australian Shark Attack Victim Identified as Greg O’Neill

A “generous, devoted” father has been identified as the victim of a fatal shark attack in Australia, prompting authorities to issue a rare order to catch and kill the suspected great white.

Greg O’Neill, 63, was attacked and killed while swimming with a friend off Sorrento Beach in Perth, Western Australia, on Friday. His body has not been recovered.

“Our family is deeply shocked and devastated by the terrible tragedy that took the life of father, grandfather-to-be, brother, uncle, husband and friend, Greg James O’Neill,” his family said in a statement to ABC Australia.

“He was a generous, devoted family man that gave his children so much love, care and opportunity,” they said. “Greg loved the ocean and was known as a passionate swimmer, sports lover, dedicated worker and an all round generous, witty guy.”

Western Australia Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis took the “extraordinary step” of authorizing a rare catch-and-kill operation, directing officers to “destroy the shark” if they capture it.

Such orders remain highly controversial in Australia, particularly because great white sharks are a protected species. The decision is believed to be Western Australia’s first catch-and-kill order in about a decade.

READ MORE: How Olympic Gold Medalist Chantelle Newbery Was Rebuilding Her Life

Jarvis said she approved the measure because of the “exceptional circumstances” surrounding the attack and the “hazard posed by the shark.”

Authorities have closed every beach in the area until at least Sunday. The shark involved in the attack has been described as approximately 8 feet long, according to the BBC.

Police boats and drones patrolled the waters throughout Saturday as the search for the shark continued.

Catch-and-kill orders have long divided public opinion across Western Australia.

The region saw major protests in 2014 after authorities ordered sharks to be killed following a sudden surge in attacks.

O’Neill’s death was the second shark attack reported in Western Australia this week. On Monday, a 56-year-old surfer lost part of his leg in an attack. It was also the state’s third fatal shark attack of the year, the BBC reported. Across Australia, five people have died in shark attacks so far in 2026.

Did Comedian Carrot Top Commit Suicide? What We Know About Hospitalization Rumors in 2026

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Did Comedian Carrot Top Commit Suicide? What We Know About 2026 Hospitalization Rumors Online searches asking whether comedian Carrot Top died by suicide or was hospitalized after a suicide attempt appear to stem from an unverified rumor. As of September 19, 2026, no credible public evidence indicates that Carrot Top has died, attempted suicide, or been hospitalized in connection with a suicide-related incident.

Carrot Top, whose real name is Scott Thompson, remains a living American comedian and entertainer. The claims appear to confuse internet speculation with confirmed news. No reputable media outlet, representative, law-enforcement agency, or family statement has reported a suicide attempt involving the comedian.

Did comedian Carrot Top commit suicide?

No. Comedian Carrot Top did not commit suicide, according to the available credible public information as of 2026.

False celebrity-death reports frequently spread through social media, clickbait websites, and videos designed to attract searches. These posts may use alarming headlines such as “What happened to Carrot Top?” or “Carrot Top dead at 60,” even when they provide no verifiable details, named sources, or official confirmation.

A genuine report involving the death of a nationally known entertainer would normally be confirmed by multiple established news organizations and by the person’s representatives or family. That confirmation has not occurred in Carrot Top’s case.

Was Carrot Top hospitalized after a suicide attempt?

There is no verified report that Carrot Top was hospitalized after a suicide attempt. The phrase “comedian Carrot Top hospitalized” appears to reflect online searches and rumor activity rather than a confirmed medical event.

It is important to distinguish between a search trend and a factual report. Search engines may display questions because many people are asking the same thing, but that does not establish that the underlying claim is true.

There have also been no reliable public details identifying a hospital, date, medical statement, police report, or representative who confirmed such an incident. Without those basic facts, the hospitalization claim should be treated as unsubstantiated.

Who is Carrot Top?

Carrot Top is the stage name of Scott Thompson, an American stand-up comedian best known for his bright red hair, exaggerated eyebrows, prop-based comedy, and distinctive visual style.

He became widely recognized through television appearances, comedy specials, talk-show appearances, and live performances. His act often combines traditional stand-up with custom-made props, visual gags, parody, and topical jokes.

Carrot Top’s unusual appearance and evolving stage persona have also made him a frequent subject of online speculation. Rumors about cosmetic procedures, health problems, and dramatic changes in his appearance have circulated for years, but online discussion is not a substitute for confirmed reporting.

Why are rumors about Carrot Top’s death or health spreading?

Several factors can cause false claims about a celebrity’s death or hospitalization to gain attention:

  • Clickbait headlines: Some websites use emotionally charged questions to generate page views.
  • Social-media reposts: An unverified post can be copied repeatedly until it appears legitimate.
  • Celebrity lookalikes: Photos or videos of another person may be incorrectly labeled as Carrot Top.
  • Old interviews or clips: Archived footage can be presented as if it were current.
  • Search-result confusion: Frequently searched questions can be mistaken for confirmed news.

Suicide-related claims are especially serious because they concern a sensitive subject and can cause unnecessary distress to family members, fans, and the public. Responsible reporting requires confirmation from reliable sources before repeating such allegations as fact.

Is Carrot Top still alive in 2026?

Yes. As of 2026, Carrot Top is publicly regarded as alive. There has been no credible announcement of his death, and no reliable evidence supports the claim that he died by suicide.

The comedian has maintained a long career in live entertainment, including prominent appearances in Las Vegas and other performance venues. Public figures sometimes reduce their social-media activity or spend periods away from the spotlight, but that alone does not indicate a medical emergency or death.

Readers should be cautious when a post claims that a celebrity has died but does not include a clear date, named source, official statement, or reporting from established news organizations.

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What is Carrot Top doing now?

Carrot Top has continued to be associated with stand-up comedy and live stage performances. His career has largely centered on touring, residency-style engagements, television appearances, and his signature prop-comedy act.

Performance schedules can change, and entertainers do not always announce every personal or professional development publicly. For that reason, the most dependable way to verify a current appearance or career update is to check an official account, venue listing, or verified representative rather than relying on anonymous posts.

Has Carrot Top spoken about mental health?

There is no confirmed public statement establishing that Carrot Top experienced a suicide attempt or hospitalization. It would be inappropriate to infer a person’s mental-health condition from a rumor, a photograph, a performance, or a change in appearance.

Public conversations about mental health should be based on the individual’s own confirmed statements or on responsible reporting. Speculation can spread misinformation and may be harmful, particularly when it involves suicide.

If you or someone you know may be in immediate danger in the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or contact local emergency services. People outside the United States should use their country’s emergency or crisis-support services.

How to verify a celebrity death or hospitalization report

Before sharing a claim about Carrot Top or another public figure, readers can use a few basic verification steps:

  1. Look for confirmation from several established news organizations.
  2. Check whether the report identifies a named representative, family member, hospital, or official agency.
  3. Review the publication date and determine whether an old story is being recirculated.
  4. Be skeptical of headlines that make a shocking claim but provide no evidence.
  5. Check the celebrity’s verified social-media accounts or official website when available.
  6. Do not treat search suggestions, video titles, or anonymous posts as proof.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Did Carrot Top die by suicide?

No. There is no credible evidence or official confirmation that Carrot Top died by suicide. He is publicly regarded as alive as of 2026.

2. Was comedian Carrot Top hospitalized after a suicide attempt?

No verified report confirms that Carrot Top was hospitalized after a suicide attempt. The claim appears to be an unsubstantiated online rumor.

3. Is Carrot Top still alive in 2026?

Yes. Carrot Top is still regarded as alive in 2026, and no credible death announcement has been reported.

4. What is Carrot Top’s real name?

His real name is Scott Thompson. He performs professionally under the name Carrot Top.

5. Why do people think Carrot Top is dead?

The rumor likely comes from clickbait posts, recycled social-media content, or search-driven headlines that present an unverified question as if it were breaking news.

6. Has Carrot Top had serious health problems?

There is no reliable public evidence supporting the specific claim that he suffered a suicide-related medical emergency. Online speculation about a celebrity’s appearance should not be treated as medical information.

7. Is there an official statement about Carrot Top’s alleged hospitalization?

No widely verified statement from Carrot Top, his representatives, his family, or a medical facility confirms the alleged hospitalization.

8. Where can fans find reliable updates about Carrot Top?

Fans should rely on his verified social-media accounts, official performance listings, venue announcements, and established news organizations rather than anonymous websites or reposted videos.

The available evidence does not support claims that comedian Carrot Top committed suicide or was hospitalized after a suicide attempt. As of 2026, Scott Thompson remains a living comedian known for his long-running prop-comedy career and live performances. Until a claim is confirmed by reputable sources or an official representative, reports about his death or hospitalization should be treated as false or unverified.

Trump Announces AI Force, Reveals New Names for “Artificial”

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Trump Announces AI Force, Reveals New Names for “Artificial”

President Trump has voiced strong support for artificial intelligence while announcing the creation of an “AI Force” to oversee the emerging technology. He also sought to recast criticism of data centers as part of what he called a “Democrat hoax.”

In a lengthy Truth Social post on Saturday afternoon, Trump compared concerns about data centers’ environmental impact with climate change and several other politically divisive issues.

“We will not in any way hinder or stifle the Growth of this incredible Industry. Rather, we will cherish it, help it, and watch over it, as it grows!” Trump wrote about AI.

“However, we will also be looking for BAD, and we can do that, very easily, with our already existing Criminal and Civil Justice System.”

Trump then introduced the “AI Force” and said he would appoint an “AI Czar” who would seemingly be responsible for monitoring AI development.

In a separate post, the president suggested replacing the term “artificial intelligence” with names such as superior intelligence, extreme intelligence or supreme intelligence. He described the technology as an “ever-growing revolution.”

Trump provided few details about how the AI Force would function, but compared the proposed organization with the Space Force.

Trump established Space Force in 2019 as the sixth branch of the US military. It remains unclear whether the proposed AI Force would also operate under the Department of Defense.

Donald Trump announced the formation of a new department called the 'AI Force' in a Truth Social post on Saturday

Donald Trump announced the formation of a new department called the “AI Force” in a Truth Social post on Saturday

Trump's endorsement of AI comes as concerns grow over the technology. Protesters are seen above at a 'Stop the AI Race' demonstration in San Francsico on Thursday

Trump’s endorsement of AI comes as concerns about the technology continue to grow. Protesters are pictured at a “Stop the AI Race” demonstration in San Francisco on Thursday

Trump ended his post by urging only “high IQ” candidates to apply for the czar position and calling AI the “next Industrial Revolution.”

“We are leading China, and the rest of the world, and I intend to keep it that way!” the president wrote.

Trump is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping next week. US officials have previously said the two leaders are expected to discuss AI.

MORE STORY: MS NOW, CNN and Politico Say Their Journalists Were Denied White House Access After Ban

The United States and China both regard AI as essential to their economic power and are competing to establish global dominance in the field.

Trump’s renewed emphasis on AI came one day after CNN reported that an AI-generated intelligence assessment had falsely identified material aboard a Chinese ship in the Middle East.

Multiple sources told the outlet that a US special operations analyst had used an AI chatbot to examine the ship’s manifest. The analyst incorrectly determined that the vessel was carrying components linked to a nuclear weapons program.

Military planners quickly began preparing to intercept the ship. Soldiers readied themselves to board the vessel while aircraft were sent into the air for the operation.

Shortly before the mission was due to begin, officials conducted another review and discovered that AI had helped produce the intelligence assessment. They then realized the technology had misidentified the material on the ship.

Communities where AI data centers have been constructed have spoken out against them. Pictured above is the Stargate AI data center in Texas

Communities hosting AI data centers have raised objections to the facilities. The Stargate AI data center in Texas is pictured above

One source described the AI-generated report as “entirely false” and said it had “almost started a war” with China. Any military action against the vessel could have triggered a confrontation between the two global powers.

The US’s emphasis on developing AI has boosted the stock market through data center construction, but criticism of the industry has mounted. 

Former employees with major AI companies have sounded the alarm on the technology’s dangers. 

Jacob Coxon, a former researcher at Anthropic, outlined in a series of social media posts why he resigned, accusing his company and OpenAI of ‘racing straight to self-improving superintelligence and gambling with our lives.’

The Daily Mail has reached out to the White House for comment and additional information. 

This is a breaking news story… 

How Olympic Gold Medalist Chantelle Newbery Was Rebuilding Her Life

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How Olympic Gold Medalist Chantelle Newbery Was Rebuilding Her Life

Who is Kim Zolciak and Kroy Biermann Son: sex abuse allegations: What happened

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The allegations connected to KJ the son of Kim Zolciak and Kroy Biermann should therefore be treated with caution. Publicly reported filings and police-related reports involved claims about domestic conflict, parenting, substance use, household conditions and the children’s welfare. Those disputes generated intense online speculation, but speculation is not proof, particularly when the person at the center of the discussion is a child.

Who Is KJ Biermann?

KJ Biermann is the son of reality television personality Kim Zolciak-Biermann and former professional football player Kroy Biermann. He was born in 2011 and has generally remained less visible in the media than his parents and older sisters.

KJ is one of the couple’s four biological children. His siblings include Kash and twins Kaia and Kane. Kroy also legally adopted Kim’s two daughters from a previous relationship, Brielle and Ariana, after marrying Kim.

Because KJ was a minor during the family’s legal disputes, responsible coverage has generally avoided unnecessary personal details about him. Much of what appears online about his private life comes from social media commentary rather than verified records.

What Happened Between Kim Zolciak and Kroy Biermann?

Kim and Kroy married in 2011 after meeting while filming The Real Housewives of Atlanta and later appeared with their family on the reality series Don’t Be Tardy. Their relationship became the subject of extensive public attention when they filed for divorce in 2023.

The divorce proceedings included competing accusations about the condition of the marriage and the couple’s home life. Both parties raised concerns about the other parent’s conduct, and authorities were called to the family’s Georgia residence during disputes.

Publicly reported issues included:

  • Allegations of domestic conflict between Kim and Kroy.
  • Disagreements over custody and parenting time.
  • Claims involving alleged substance use and household behavior.
  • Arguments about finances, living arrangements and the family home.
  • Requests for court intervention regarding the children’s welfare.

These matters were serious, but they should not automatically be described as sexual-abuse findings. A custody allegation, a police report or a request for an investigation does not establish that a crime occurred.

Were There Sex Abuse Allegations Involving KJ?

There is no publicly established finding that KJ Biermann was sexually abused, and no verified public record has shown that Kim Zolciak or Kroy Biermann was charged with sexually abusing him.

Online posts may combine separate claims from the divorce litigation, family disputes and rumors about the children. That can create the impression that a specific sexual-abuse case exists when the available public information does not support that conclusion.

It is important to distinguish between three different things:

  1. A reported allegation: A person claims that something happened.
  2. An investigation: Authorities assess whether evidence supports further action.
  3. A proven finding: A court or another authorized process determines that misconduct occurred.

Based on publicly reported information, the controversy involving KJ belongs in the first category of online discussion and family-court conflict, not as a confirmed sexual-abuse finding.

What Did the Divorce Filings Say?

The 2023 divorce filings and subsequent legal disputes contained allegations from both Kim and Kroy. Each side sought legal protection and favorable custody arrangements, while reports described a deteriorating relationship inside the home.

Kim and Kroy also disagreed publicly about money, the family residence and how the children were being cared for. Their filings were part of an adversarial domestic-relations case, meaning that claims made in pleadings represented the parties’ positions and were not automatically proven facts.

Reports about the case sometimes used broad language such as “abuse,” “danger” or “unsafe conditions.” Such terms can refer to different types of alleged conduct, including emotional conflict, physical altercations, neglect concerns or substance-related behavior. They should not be interpreted as evidence of sexual abuse unless a reliable source specifically establishes that connection.

Did Police Investigate the Family?

Police were reportedly involved in disputes at the former couple’s home during the breakdown of the marriage. Media coverage described allegations of domestic violence and arguments between Kim and Kroy, but police involvement alone does not mean that criminal charges or a conviction followed.

Law-enforcement responses to family disputes can include welfare checks, documenting statements, separating people at the scene and referring matters to prosecutors or family courts. The final legal outcome depends on evidence, witness accounts and prosecutorial decisions.

Reports about KJ should also be separated from other controversies involving the family. For example, public disputes involving Kim’s adult daughters or accusations exchanged between the parents do not automatically establish misconduct involving KJ.

Why Are People Searching for KJ’s Name?

KJ’s name has appeared in searches because he is connected to a highly publicized celebrity divorce involving custody issues and allegations exchanged in legal documents. Online audiences often search for a specific child’s name when trying to understand which family member was mentioned in a filing or news report.

That search behavior can also spread inaccurate summaries. Social-media users may repeat claims without identifying the original source, the date of a filing or whether a court ever ruled on the allegation. Headlines can further blur the difference between an accusation and a verified event.

When a minor is involved, readers should be particularly skeptical of:

  • Anonymous posts claiming to reveal private family information.
  • Videos that provide no court document or reputable news source.
  • Headlines stating or implying guilt without a legal finding.
  • Articles that confuse domestic-abuse allegations with sexual-abuse allegations.
  • Posts that publish identifying or intimate details about a child.

Current Status of the Allegations as of 2026

As of 2026, the publicly discussed allegations connected to KJ remain matters that should be described carefully and without unsupported conclusions. There is no established public basis for stating that KJ was sexually abused or that either parent was criminally convicted of sexually abusing him.

The broader family conflict has involved divorce litigation, custody disagreements and allegations about the parents’ conduct. The legal status of individual motions, filings or private proceedings can change, and not every court document becomes a final ruling.

For the most reliable update, readers should rely on authenticated court records, official statements and established news organizations that identify their sources. Viral posts are not a substitute for a judicial finding or a confirmed law-enforcement statement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is KJ Biermann?

KJ Biermann is the son of Kim Zolciak-Biermann and former NFL player Kroy Biermann. He was born in 2011 and is one of the couple’s four biological children.

2. Was KJ sexually abused?

No publicly verified court finding has established that KJ was sexually abused. Online rumors should not be presented as confirmed facts.

3. Were Kim Zolciak or Kroy Biermann charged with sexual abuse?

There is no publicly established criminal conviction or confirmed charge showing that either parent sexually abused KJ. The family’s legal disputes primarily involved divorce, custody, domestic conflict, finances and parenting concerns.

4. What allegations were made during the divorce?

Kim and Kroy exchanged allegations involving their relationship, household behavior, substance use, finances and the children’s welfare. Claims in divorce filings represent legal positions unless a court later confirms them.

5. Did police visit the Biermann-Zolciak home?

Yes, police were reportedly called during disputes at the family home. However, a police response does not by itself prove that abuse occurred or that criminal charges resulted.

6. Is KJ still a minor?

Yes. KJ was born in 2011, so he remains a minor in 2026. His privacy and safety should be considered when discussing allegations involving the family.

7. Why do online posts describe the case as a sex-abuse scandal?

Some online posts appear to combine separate custody allegations, domestic disputes and rumors. Without a verified source or court finding, that wording can be misleading.

8. Where can readers find reliable updates?

Reliable updates should come from official court records, law-enforcement statements and established news outlets that clearly identify documents and sources. Anonymous social-media claims should be treated as unverified.

KJ Biermann is the minor son of Kim Zolciak and Kroy Biermann, whose highly publicized divorce produced competing allegations and extensive media attention. However, the available public information does not establish a sexual-abuse finding involving KJ. The responsible conclusion is that the family faced serious custody and domestic disputes, while the specific sex-abuse claims circulating online remain unsubstantiated.

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Lindsay Clancy Mistrial: Holdout Juror Michael Desronvil Speaks Out

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Lindsay Clancy Mistrial: Holdout Juror Michael Desronvil Speaks Out

The juror who deadlocked the Lindsay Clancy murder trial is speaking publicly for the first time.

Two weeks after the case ended in a mistrial, Michael Desronvil said he never wavered in his belief that Clancy was guilty and had deliberately planned the deaths of her three children.

“As I tried to explain different possible theories during deliberation, I kept getting cut off as if I had doubts based on the evidence present,” Desronvil told NewsNation in a statement. “Based on all the physical evidence, key witnesses, and what the prosecution presents, I thought it was enough proof that she [Clancy] knew exactly what she was doing and planned.”

Desronvil became the focus of widespread attention after emerging as the only juror who supported a murder conviction. The other 11 jurors concluded that Clancy was not guilty by reason of insanity.

With the jury unable to reach a unanimous decision, a judge declared a mistrial in the closely watched case on Sept. 4.

Ray Marcel, host of the streaming program Fugitive TV, said he also spoke with Desronvil for more than an hour.

Marcel later told NewsNation’s Chris Cuomo that Desronvil consistently believed Clancy was mentally competent when the killings occurred.

“He said, from day one, that he always felt she was guilty,” Marcel said. “He never displayed or said anything about reasonable doubt.”

Roni Carlson, the jury’s foreperson, previously made headlines when she told NBC 10 Boston that Desronvil had acknowledged having reasonable doubt but still refused to support a finding that Clancy was not guilty by reason of insanity.

“He admitted he had reasonable doubt, and I started filling out the forms. I was so excited,” Carlson said. She recalled that Desronvil then told her, “But I’m still not going to say that she’s not guilty by reason of insanity.”

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Carlson made a similar allegation in a note sent to the judge during deliberations. According to CNN, Clancy’s attorney, Kevin Reddington, unsuccessfully sought to have Desronvil removed from the panel.

Another juror described Desronvil to NBC 10 Boston as “very arrogant,” alleging that he “really did not take anything that anybody said” into consideration.

Holdout Juror Michael Desronvil Allegedly Claimed “Things Got Heated” in Jury Room

Desronvil reportedly told Marcel that tensions were high in the jury room from the beginning and that deliberations became heated.

Marcel said several jurors initially agreed that Clancy was guilty, but one by one they changed their views, leaving Desronvil as the lone juror maintaining that position.

“He felt that she was sane based on the preparation she carried out,” Marcel told NewsNation. “That preparation showed him that she knew what she was doing and understood right from wrong before carrying out the killings.”

Marcel also criticized the public attention directed at Desronvil, particularly the disclosure of information about his personal life.

“Whether you agree with him or not, his name should not have been put out there like that,” Marcel said. “No juror should be pushed into the spotlight. They are performing a civic duty and should be protected. He never asked for any of this.”

The next hearing in Lindsay Clancy’s case is scheduled for Sept. 29.

America’s Bravest Boyfriend Dates Widow Whose Mother Allegedly Ordered Hit on Her Ex

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America’s Bravest Boyfriend Dates Widow Whose Mother Allegedly Ordered Hit on Her Ex

ALSO READ: Author Faces Backlash After Calling Criticism of Error-Filled Slavery Book Racist

D Smith Says He’s Detransitioning After 12 Years Living as a Woman

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D Smith Says He’s Detransitioning After 12 Years Living as a Woman

Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta personality D. Smith says he is detransitioning after 12 years of living publicly as a woman.

The Grammy-nominated producer, 51, announced the news in an Instagram post Thursday, insisting that he has no regrets.

“For most of my life, I’ve followed my heart, even when the path wasn’t easy to understand,” Smith wrote. “For the past twelve years, I lived publicly as a transgender woman. Those years were not a mistake. They were real.”

He added that the experience brought “extraordinary people, profound experiences, and lessons” he will carry with him for the rest of his life.

Alongside the announcement, Smith posted a new image of himself wearing shorts, a loose-fitting tank top and a durag.

The multi-platinum producer also explained that his decision to live as a man began to take shape in recent months.

Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta star D. Smith has announced he’s detransitioning after 12 years living as a woman

Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta star D. Smith says he is detransitioning after 12 years of living as a woman

The singer-songwriter and producer, 51, announced the news in an Instagram post Thursday

The 51-year-old singer-songwriter and producer shared the announcement in an Instagram post on Thursday

“Over the past several months, I’ve started a new chapter in my life,” Smith said. “Moving forward, I’ll be living and presenting as a man and using he/him pronouns.”

He emphasized that the change is not an attempt to erase his history. “Living my life as a woman for 12 years showed me the man I wanted to become,” Smith wrote.

Smith said his love and respect for the transgender community remain intact, adding that everyone should have the right to live with dignity, safety and compassion while having the freedom to become who they are.

The reality star also offered fans a glimpse of his current perspective and expressed gratitude to the people who supported him throughout his journey.

He suggested that he will share more details about his decision in the future.

“Life is constantly pushing me to grow,” Smith wrote. “Even when I feel tired, discouraged or alone, life has given me strength because I chose purpose over fear.” He also thanked everyone who stood by him through every stage of his life.

“There is much more to this journey that cannot fit into this statement,” he continued. “When the time is right, I’ll share that story in full. Until then, thank you for allowing me the space to continue growing.”

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'Those years weren’t a mistake. They were real,' Smith said about presenting as a woman

“Those years weren’t a mistake. They were real,” Smith said of the 12 years he spent presenting as a woman

‘Over the past several months, I’ve begun a new chapter in my life. Going forward, I’ll be living and presenting as a man and using he/him pronouns,’ Smith shared.

“Over the past several months, I’ve started a new chapter in my life. Moving forward, I’ll be living and presenting as a man and using he/him pronouns,” Smith said

In 2023, Smith’s film Kokomo City won the NEXT Innovator and Audience Award at Sundance Film Festival. It's ‘a raw depiction of the lives of four black trans sex workers as they confront the dichotomy between the black community and themselves'

In 2023, Smith’s film Kokomo City won the NEXT Innovator and Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. The documentary is described as “a raw depiction of the lives of four black trans sex workers as they confront the dichotomy between the black community and themselves”

The two-time Grammy-nominated writer, singer and producer has collaborated with artists including Katy Perry, Lil Wayne and CeeLo Green.

Smith came out as transgender in 2014 and later faced professional backlash. In a 2023 interview with the Guardian, he said records nearing release were withdrawn and friends stopped returning his calls.

“I absolutely felt betrayed, but I was in denial for two years,” Smith said. “I had always done everything by the book and made a lot of money for labels, so I thought there was no reason for people to distance themselves from me.”

‘It took me years to think about the fact that people around me loved D. Smith the guy, they trusted that person – literally one day I was wearing jeans and Timberlands and a trucker hat, and the next day I was wearing blue eyeshadow and heels.

‘I didn’t give people a heads up, and you don’t owe anybody an explanation of who you are, but at the same time, how do you realistically expect people to completely accept you [straight away]? That’s actually not fair.’

Smith went on to be a supporting cast member on VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta season 5 in 2016 while Joseline Hernandez and K. Michelle were among the main cast.

Presenting as a woman, Smith was the first openly transgender cast member of an unscripted series.

In 2023, Smith’s film Kokomo City won the NEXT Innovator and Audience Award at Sundance Film Festival.

The documentary is ‘a raw depiction of the lives of four black trans sex workers as they confront the dichotomy between the black community and themselves,’ according to IMDb.

MS NOW, CNN and Politico Say Their Journalists Were Denied White House Access After Ban

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MS NOW, CNN and Politico Say Their Journalists Were Denied White House Access After Ban

Reporters from CNN, MS NOW and Politico were denied access to the White House on Saturday, one day after President Trump said he would bar the outlets.

WASHINGTON — Journalists from CNN, MS NOW and Politico were turned away from the White House on Saturday morning. Reporters for the two cable networks went live to describe how they had been blocked after President Donald Trump announced the ban.

The move intensified Trump’s long-running campaign, through administrative measures and occasional court action, to restrict coverage by journalists he considers hostile. It also created a new test of First Amendment protections in the United States. On Friday, Trump said he would bar CNN, MS NOW and Politico over what he called “fake news.”

Politico said White House reporter Cheyenne Haslett was also refused entry and had her press badge confiscated. The organization announced the incident shortly after MS NOW and CNN journalists were turned away.

Politico Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Greenberger said in a statement to the newsroom: “We stand by her and all reporters here covering the White House. … We will vigorously defend our First Amendment rights.”

CNN and MS NOW released similar statements. “We will not be deflected from our duty to hold the government and other public bodies to account,” the statement said. It aired before CNN senior White House reporter Betsy Klein began describing her ban.

MS NOW also said it stood behind its journalists.

“The White House belongs to the American people and the decisions made inside are funded by our tax dollars,” the network said Saturday. “MS NOW intends to take any and all steps necessary to defend our First Amendment rights and the essential role of independent journalism in our democracy.”

During his second term, Trump and his administration have escalated efforts to punish selected media outlets through court proceedings and regulatory action. Trump has also attacked individual reporters in person and on social media, at times using highly personal language.

CNN and MS NOW correspondents are turned away

CNN White House reporter Betsy Klein and MS NOW reporter Akayla Gardner both went on the air to report that they had been barred from entering the White House.

Network correspondents are typically stationed at the White House on weekends when the president is in Washington or at nearby Camp David. Trump is spending this weekend at the presidential retreat in Maryland. Politico reporters are generally not at the White House on Saturdays.

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Gardner said she was stopped and had her entry badge confiscated. She had passed through two gates before reaching the point where her badge needed to be scanned. An officer then told her the badge had been disabled and asked her to surrender it, saying the decision “was above him,” she reported. An MS NOW producer was allowed inside, but a photographer’s badge was also deactivated, Gardner said.

Klein, CNN’s senior White House reporter, likewise said her badge had been deactivated.

CNN media analyst Brian Stelter described the action as “a direct threat to press freedom in the United States.”

“It’s so much bigger than CNN,” Stelter said. “This is a free speech test in America.”

Trump calls these and other outlets ‘fake news’

In a post on his social media platform Friday, the president wrote that, effective immediately, “I am banning” CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House because of their constant “‘reporting’ FAKE NEWS!” Minutes later, Trump was asked about the announcement during an Oval Office event.

“Because they’re fake news,” he said. “You get so tired of reading and seeing fake news. When you look at CNN, it’s just fake. That’s why their ratings are no good. When you look at MS NOW …, it’s fake news.”

“And when you look at Politico … the stories they wrote are fake. So there’s a lot of news and there may be others to join them, and maybe they can get better,” he said. “But our country has to have honest news.”

The latest action follows Trump’s decision last year to bar Associated Press reporters from the Oval Office, Air Force One and other events after the outlet declined to adopt his preferred name, “Gulf of America,” for the Gulf of Mexico, which borders Mexico and other countries. The AP said it would identify the waterway as the “Gulf of America” when appropriate while noting that Trump had ordered the change.

The AP sued, and that case remains ongoing. Since returning to office, Trump has pursued other legal actions against outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and the BBC. His administration is also engaged in a long-running dispute with ABC over the renewal of its broadcast licenses.

Sleepy Girl Mocktails: What They Really Do and What Helps Insomnia

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Sleepy Girl Mocktails: What They Really Do and What Helps Insomnia

If you are struggling through the day after yet another broken night’s sleep, you are far from alone.

For millions of people, sleep deprivation and persistent nighttime restlessness have become a draining part of daily life, driven by demanding schedules, ongoing stress and screens that stay switched on well into the evening.

That helps explain the growing appeal of the viral “sleepy girl” mocktail—a colorful, often powdered drink marketed as a simple way to quiet the mind and fall asleep more easily.

These magnesium-based sleep drinks have spread rapidly across social media, with enthusiasts describing them as the straightforward bedtime solution they have been looking for.

For people balancing work, family responsibilities, stress or an unpredictable routine, the promise of an easy nighttime drink can be especially tempting.

Before filling your cupboard with supplements, however, it is worth taking a closer look at what these products can—and cannot—do.

A relaxing evening ritual may be beneficial, but sleep specialists caution that trendy magnesium drinks could be an expensive distraction rather than a lasting solution to insomnia and other sleep problems.

Here is what the evidence suggests.

For many people, sleep deprivation and nightly sleep struggles have become an exhausting part of life, fueled by packed schedules, constant stress and screens that never seem to shut off (stock image)

For many people, sleep deprivation and nightly sleep struggles have become an exhausting part of life, fueled by packed schedules, constant stress and screens that never seem to shut off (stock image)

The Science Behind the Magnesium Hype

It is not hard to see why magnesium has become a popular ingredient in sleep supplements and bedtime drinks.

The essential mineral plays a role in important bodily processes, including nerve function and muscle relaxation. That may make magnesium sound well suited to a nighttime routine, but it does not mean a powdered drink is a proven cure for restless sleep.

Research remains limited. A clinical systematic review involving older adults found that those who took magnesium supplements fell asleep roughly 17 minutes sooner than people given a placebo. However, the review found no statistically significant increase in total sleep time.

‘The promise of a good night’s sleep is a powerful message to convey to consumers, even if the claims are difficult to back up with science,’ explains Dr Jennifer Martin, former president of the board of directors for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

‘A drink that promises to help you relax and sleep better is an attractive concept, especially on social media, but popularity should not be confused with scientific evidence.’

What’s REALLY Keeping You Awake?

For some people, magnesium may be serving as a cover for habits that interfere with sleep, such as late-afternoon caffeine, evening alcohol, high stress, naps late in the day or a bedtime routine that never properly slows down.

There is also a possibility that an underlying condition is contributing to your sleep difficulties.

According to an Epidemiology of Insomnia study, about 10 percent of adults meet the criteria for an insomnia disorder, while a further 20 percent experience occasional symptoms.

Against that backdrop, depending on viral sleep drinks could conceal the true cause of poor sleep—or delay the medical advice and effective treatment some people need.

‘Any “quick fix” approach is appealing because it can be hard to know where to start with unaddressed stress or environmental factors,’ says Dr Joy Valko, a licensed clinical psychologist board-certified in behavioral sleep medicine at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.

‘Caffeine too late in the day can promote a vicious cycle, exacerbating sleep problems resulting in next-day fatigue that makes caffeine even more appealing, but many people struggle with insomnia that developed for no identifiable reason.’

ALSO READ: Brad Pitt Had an ‘Angelina Problem,’ Not a Drinking Problem

Understanding Potential Health Risks

One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming that because something is ‘natural’ it must be safe in any amount. 

Taking too much magnesium can cause problems, however, especially for people with specific medical conditions. 

Those with kidney issues or taking certain prescription medications should be careful when adding a concentrated magnesium supplement to a nightly routine. Experts say the dose and the type of magnesium matter, and guessing can easily backfire.

‘Consumers should remember that “natural” does not necessarily mean risk-free. 

‘Taking excessive amounts of magnesium through supplements can cause gastrointestinal side effects, and certain people, including those with impaired kidney function or those taking medications that can interact with magnesium, should speak with their health care provider before supplementation,’ Dr Martin told Daily Mail.

It's easy to understand the appeal of the trendy 'sleepy girl' mocktail - a colorful, often powdery drink that promises to calm the mind and make drifting off feel effortless - which has taken over social media (stock image)

It’s easy to understand the appeal of the trendy ‘sleepy girl’ mocktail – a colorful, often powdery drink that promises to calm the mind and make drifting off feel effortless – which has taken over social media (stock image)

More Is Not Always Better

When it comes to magnesium, taking more definitely does not automatically mean sleeping better. 

In fact, magnesium is well-known for its laxative effect. So, a large dose right before bed could end up causing stomach trouble, keeping you awake for the wrong reasons instead of helping you drift off. 

‘Magnesium is an important mineral and electrolyte, but more is not always better… spending your evening sitting on the toilet could interfere with getting enough sleep,’ Dr Valko cautioned.

Finding Real Relief Through Clinical Paths

If trendy magnesium drinks aren’t the answer for long-running sleep problems, what are some non-medicinal things to try? 

For adults with chronic insomnia, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia or CBT-I.

Instead of masking symptoms for one night, CBT-I targets the thoughts and habits that keep poor sleep going. 

This short-term therapy often lasts six to eight sessions and teaches lasting tools for better sleep, the AASM states.

The Takeaway

As you pursue sleep-enhancing methods, a magnesium drink might be a harmless part of a calming evening routine for some people. 

But it should not be treated as a replacement for medical advice or proven insomnia treatments. 

If sleep problems keep happening night after night, the better move is to talk to a clinician rather than continuing to test whatever is currently trending online.

Dr Martin added: ‘The AASM recommends discussing persistent insomnia or another suspected sleep disorder with a physician or sleep specialist rather than relying solely on self-treatment.’
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