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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.
At least 60 people have potentially died from the deadly Super-K flu strain so far this year, with doctors warning the figures will only rise.
The new and highly mutated strain of influenza A (H3N2), dubbed ‘Super-K’, was first detected in the United States in June and led to the deaths of dozens of children.
Now, the highly contagious strain has been confirmed in Australia.
The new and highly mutated strain of influenza A (H3N2), dubbed ‘Super-K’, was first detected in the United States. (Getty)
Australia has already seen over 22,000 cases of the flu this year, as reported by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
In January alone, there were 63 fatalities linked to the flu, a figure that is approximately double what is usually recorded for the month.
Paul Griffin, the Director of Infectious Diseases at Mater, attributes this spike in fatalities to the emergence of the Super-K strain.
“The significant number of deaths is primarily due to the highly transmissible Super-K variant and the current low vaccination rates,” he explained.
To counter the new variant, this year’s flu vaccines have been specifically updated, with preparations in place ahead of the flu season, which customarily begins in April.
But fewer people are getting their shots.
Only about one in three Australians are receiving their flu shots, compared to more than half before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Those most at risk of flu hospitalisations and deaths include the elderly, children, pregnant women and immunocompromised people.
Only 25 per cent of children under five received a flu shot and 60.5 per cent of people over 65 were vaccinated last year – the lowest number in six years.
Low vaccination rates have contributed to the deadliest flu season in a decade after 1701 people died from influenza last year.
That was about 400 more deaths than the national road toll.
Paul Griffin gets his flu shots. (Supplied)
Griffin urged people to get their flu, COVID and RSV vaccines ahead of the flu season as it typically takes about two weeks for them to kick in.
“Flu is a major public health threat, and everyone should have the annual vaccine, especially those who are most vulnerable and need the added protection it brings,” he said.
“This year, we need to do better and get as many people vaccinated as possible, before more lives are lost unnecessarily.”
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Antonio Banderas left behind his glamorous Hollywood existence nearly a decade ago, and he has no regrets about doing so.
The 65-year-old actor relocated to Málaga, Spain, his birthplace, in 2017. Banderas revealed that a life-threatening heart attack was the catalyst for his significant decision to move.
“It was a very serious wake-up call,” he commented on the heart attack during an interview with the Times published Wednesday. “It altered my perspective on life.”
Prior to this health crisis, as noted by the publication, Banderas split his time between the US and the UK, owning a mansion in Cobham, Surrey.
Following the health scare, the “Desperado” actor promptly quit smoking, sold his private jet, and returned to Málaga, where he purchased a theater.
“Faced with death, it made me look back and realize that I am, in fact, a theatre actor,” he explained.
Banderas now lives in a flat with his longtime girlfriend, Nicole Kimpel, and owns multiple restaurants. But his not-for-profit theatre, Teatro del Soho, is his greatest passion.
“I have never been so happy,” he noted.
Banderas also reflected on how he became a superstar in Hollywood, sharing that his insecurities about English not being his first language went away after he married his now ex-wife, Melanie Griffith. The two divorced in 2015 after 18 years of marriage.
He shared that while he was originally told that as a Spaniard, he could only play “the bad guys” in films, he proved them wrong with 1998’s “The Mask of Zorro.”
“The problem was a few years later I had a mask, hat, sword and cape and the bad guy was Captain Love, who was blond and had blue eyes,” he said.
He continued, “Even more important is [his 2011 film] ‘Puss in Boots,’ because it’s for young kids. They see a cat that has a Spanish, even an Andalusian accent and he’s a good guy.”
Banderas spoke to Page Six in December 2022, and said his heart attack was “one of the best things” that ever happened to him.
“I realized that it probably was one of the best things that ever happened in my life because the things that were not important and I was worried every day about them, meaningless,” he explained.
He told us that after his near-death experience, he began to detach from “things that I thought were important before but weren’t really.”
“I was like, why am I worried about that if I’m going to die?” he recalled. “I knew always [that I was going to die], but now I know. I’ve seen it right here.”
Netflix has implemented a price hike across its subscription plans in the United States, as the streaming service expands into innovative content areas like video podcasts and live sports.
The ad-supported subscription is now priced at $8.99 per month, up from the previous $7.99, while the standard plan has increased by $2, reaching $19.99 monthly, as stated on Netflix’s website.
The premium subscription now stands at $26.99, a rise from the earlier $24.99. Additionally, the fee for adding an extra member has been raised to $7.99 for ad-supported plans and $9.99 for ad-free ones.
The company’s ad-supported tier will now cost $8.99 a month, compared with $7.99 earlier, while prices for its standard plan rose $2 per month to $19.99, according to its website. A scene from “Bridgerton,” above. AP
With over 325 million subscribers globally, Netflix discontinued its most affordable ad-free plan, known as the basic plan, in 2023. This leaves customers with the option of choosing between the costlier premium and standard plans or the ad-supported standard plan.
As a result of these pricing adjustments, analysts from TD Cowen project that Netflix’s average revenue per subscriber in the US-Canada region will see a 6% increase year-over-year by 2026.
It last raised prices early last year.
Netflix reported revenue of $12.1 billion for the October-December period, modestly exceeding analysts’ estimate.
The streaming giant is pushing into new programming formats such as video podcasts and live sporting events. Fans are seen ahead of Netflix’s telecast of MLB’s season opener between the Yankees and Giants. Getty Images for Netflix
In February, it walked away from bidding for Warner Bros.’ streaming and studio assets, paving the way for Paramount Skydance to buy the storied Hollywood studio in a $110 billion deal, including debt.
Did you know that a staggering 74% of individuals feel inundated by the demands of others, often leading to burnout and resentment in their relationships? If you’ve ever found yourself agreeing to something when you really wanted to decline, you are not alone. This common pitfall can seriously impact your well-being. In this guide on establishing healthy boundaries in relationships, we will explore the strategies of therapist Nedra Glover Tawwab as outlined in her book, Set Boundaries, Find Peace. You will discover what boundaries truly entail, their mental health advantages, and step-by-step methods along with conversation starters—particularly useful for navigating complex family interactions—to foster relationships that honor your needs.
How To Set Healthy Boundaries in a Relationship Like Therapist Nedra Glover Tawwab
What Are Healthy Boundaries in a Relationship?
Healthy boundaries function like invisible barriers safeguarding your time, energy, and emotions. They are not meant to exclude people but rather to define what is acceptable for you and what isn’t. According to therapist Nedra Glover Tawwab, boundaries can be seen as “expectations and needs that help you feel safe and comfortable.”
Boundaries can be categorized into various types: emotional (allowing the expression of feelings without becoming overwhelmed), physical (respecting personal space), time (declining endless requests), and material (caution in lending money). In any relationship—be it romantic, familial, or friendly—boundaries serve to prevent resentment by clearly defining limits. Without them, you may fall into codependency, where one person’s needs overshadow the other’s.
Consider an example: if a partner frequently checks your phone, a privacy boundary is being violated. Setting a boundary might involve saying, “I need trust in this relationship; let’s communicate openly instead.”
Health Benefits of Setting Healthy Boundaries
Establishing strong boundaries is not an act of selfishness; rather, it is crucial for maintaining both mental and physical health. The American Psychological Association has linked poor boundary-setting to chronic stress, which can elevate cortisol levels and weaken the immune system. Here are seven science-backed benefits of establishing healthy boundaries in relationships, each offering practical advantages and real-life illustrations.
Benefit 1: Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Scientifically, boundaries lower cortisol levels by preventing emotional overload. A 2022 study in Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found people with clear limits report 40% less anxiety.
Practically, you reclaim mental space, sleeping better and focusing on joys. Example: Sarah told her friend, “I can’t chat after 8 PM—family time.” Her anxiety dropped as evenings became recharge zones.
Benefit 2: Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence
Enforcing boundaries reinforces self-worth, activating brain’s reward centers (dopamine release), per fMRI studies from UCLA.
You feel empowered, making bolder decisions. Example: Mark set a work boundary: no emails post-6 PM. His confidence soared, leading to a promotion.
Benefit 3: Improves Relationship Quality
Boundaries foster mutual respect, cutting conflict by 30%, says a Gottman Institute review.
Deeper trust emerges as needs are honored. Example: In their marriage, Lisa and Tom agreed on “date nights only—no phones.” Intimacy skyrocketed.
Benefit 4: Enhances Mental Clarity and Productivity
By saying no, you avoid decision fatigue, sharpening prefrontal cortex function.
More energy for goals. Example: A busy mom blocked sibling calls during work hours, doubling her output.
Boundaries in relationships define acceptable behavior, protecting your identity. They’re agreements like “We discuss finances weekly” (romantic) or “Call before visiting” (family). Tawwab says they’re “the distance at which I can love you and me simultaneously.”
Boundaries Are Not About Controlling Others
A common myth: Boundaries control people. Wrong—they’re self-focused. You can’t force change; you control your response. Tawwab clarifies: “Saying no to their request isn’t making them say no—it’s honoring your capacity.”
Example: Telling a friend “I won’t cover your shift” doesn’t control them—it frees you.
How to Set Healthy Boundaries
Beyond steps above, tailor by type:
Romantic: “Date nights sacred.”
Work: “Emails by EOD.”
Use apps like Boundary Tracker.
Family Is Often Where It Gets Hardest
Families trigger guilt due to loyalty ties. Tawwab notes “fawning” responses from childhood wiring. Hardest with parents/siblings expecting unlimited access.
Tip: Start with “I love our time, but I need space to recharge.”
How to Start the Conversation on Setting Boundaries
Scripts make it easy:
General: “I’ve realized I need [boundary] to stay my best self. Can we try that?”
Family: “Mom, dinners weekly work great, but daily calls overwhelm me. Let’s text?”
Partner: “I feel closer when we have alone time. How about evenings free?”
Practice aloud. Expect questions—answer briefly.
If resistance: “This isn’t rejection; it’s self-care.”
FAQs
What are healthy boundaries in a relationship? Healthy boundaries are clear limits on time, emotions, and energy that promote mutual respect. They help you say no without guilt, fostering trust. Therapist Nedra Glover Tawwab defines them as essential for peaceful connections.
How do you set healthy boundaries with family? Reflect on your needs, communicate with “I” statements like “I need evenings free,” and enforce kindly. Start small—expect pushback, but consistency builds respect. Tawwab’s book offers family-specific scripts.
Is setting boundaries selfish? No—it’s self-care that strengthens relationships. Without them, resentment brews; with them, you’re more present. Studies show boundary-setters are happier and less burned out.
What if someone gets mad at my boundaries? Pushback is normal; stay firm without JADE (justify, argue, defend, explain). Say, “I hear you, but this is my need.” True friends/partners adapt.
How long until boundaries improve relationships? 2-4 weeks for habits to stick, per psychology research. Early discomfort fades as benefits like less stress emerge. Track progress weekly.
Can boundaries fix a toxic relationship? They clarify issues but may end irreparable ones. Prioritize safety—if abuse exists, seek professional help first.
Are boundaries scientifically proven to help mental health? Yes—studies link them to lower cortisol, anxiety, and depression. APA data shows 30-40% mood improvements.
Who should avoid setting boundaries? No one—everyone benefits. But if in crisis (e.g., severe mental health), pair with therapy.
Final Verdict: Your Path to Boundary Mastery
Setting healthy boundaries transforms chaos into calm, slashing stress while deepening bonds. Key takeaways: Start with self-awareness, use clear scripts (especially for family), and enforce consistently for benefits like boosted confidence and better health.
If you’re overwhelmed in relationships, try one boundary today—you deserve peace. Tawwab’s wisdom proves: Boundaries aren’t barriers; they’re bridges to thriving.
In a somber development, the body of a missing teenager was discovered in Lake Station, Indiana, as confirmed by local police on Thursday. The community had been on edge since the disappearance of 18-year-old Rodrigo Montes, a senior from River Forest High School.
After an exhaustive search operation, Montes was found around 11:20 a.m. by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Dive Team. His disappearance had been shrouded in mystery, with the last known sighting of him being at a social gathering the previous Sunday night.
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According to his family, Montes had informed them that he would be getting a ride home from a friend early that Monday morning. The search for him had persisted for several days, drawing concern and support from both local residents and the broader community.
The teen was last seen at a gathering Sunday night.
Montes’ family says the River Forest High School senior told them he was getting a ride home from a friend early Monday.
Hours later, Lake Station police say, a truck was found submerged in the Deep River near 27th Avenue and Wyoming Street just before 4:30 a.m. Monday. Police said “a male subject” was believed to have been inside.
The man’s family says the truck belonged to his friend.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office said it responded to the area of 29th Avenue and Wyoming Street in Lake Station to recover Montes’ body.
An autopsy is scheduled for Friday.
A suspect is in custody with charges pending, police said.
“The City of Lake Station extends its deepest condolences to the family members affected by this tragedy,” police said.
Montes’ family said they spoke with the man’s friend.
“The vehicle was submerged and he supposedly walked home. He didn’t tell anybody about the accident. And now, he’s denying that he’s ever been involved,” said Saul Montes, Rico’s brother.
Chopper 7 captured video of dive teams in the water as Montes’ family and friends conducted an hours-long search on the ground. A black pickup truck could be seen upside-down in the water.
Montes’ family was just starting to plan his high school graduation party.
“Rico’s been the baby of the family. He’s the littlest one,” Saul Montes said.
His family released a statement Thursday that said:
“We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our entire community for coming together with strength, support, and determination in the search for Rodrigo. Your prayers, shares, and efforts truly made a difference during such a difficult time. Today, March 26th, the Indiana State Dive Team was able to locate Rodrigo. While this is not the outcome we had hoped for, we are grateful that the family can now begin to find closure. Please continue to keep his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
In a shocking incident outside a Florida public library, two county employees embroiled in an office romance were fatally shot while preparing for a rendezvous in their vehicle. The alleged assailant, the woman’s estranged spouse, remains at large.
The victims, 49-year-old Stacie Mason and 56-year-old Danny Ooley, both worked for Indian River County. They were tragically killed in Vero Beach with an AR-15-style weapon early Tuesday morning, a case authorities are calling a “crime of passion.”
Police have named 64-year-old Jesse Ellis, Mason’s estranged husband, as the primary suspect in the investigation.
Both Mason and Ooley, who were married to other people, held respected positions within the county and had been involved in an affair for several weeks, according to Vero Beach Police Chief David Currey.
Authorities report that the duo arrived separately at the Indian River County Main Library just before 7 a.m., choosing to park in a nearby lot.
Mason exited her Volkswagen SUV and got into Ooley’s Ford Ranger pickup – only for Ellis to approach the vehicle moments later.
Indian River County employees and lovers Danny Ooley, 56, and Stacie Mason, 49, were shot dead outside a Vero Beach library in what police described as a targeted attack
The pair were sitting in Ooley’s truck outside Indian River County Main Library in Vero Beach on Tuesday morning when Mason’s estranged husband opened fire
The horror that unfolded was captured on CCTV, which police have not yet been released.
Speaking at a press conference, Chief Currey said the footage shows the suspect ‘coming toward the driver’s side of the vehicle and firing multiple shots and then going around to the passenger side.’
Ooley was shot first inside the truck, with multiple rounds going into the vehicle. As the gunfire continued, Mason either attempted to escape or was pulled out of the truck by the gunman.
Investigators say Ellis fled the scene in his 2022 gray F150 pick-up and drove to nearby South Beach, leaving the double-murder weapon behind.
Thirty minutes later, a man matching his description was reported to have entered the ocean fully clothed and swam out at least 900 yards near Riomar Country Club, said the police chief.
A high-performance Zodiac-style boat was launched by the fire department which caught up with the man, who gave a false name and refused help.
The Daily Mail has learned Indian River County Fire Rescue were called to conduct a welfare check on the man and had no idea of a connection to the murders at the time.
Assistant fire chief Steve Greer said the man gave a false name and did not appear to be in distress. ‘He said he was OK and he does this often,’ said Greer. ‘He became agitated. Fire rescue crews went back to shore.’
That was the last time the man, who entered the ocean wearing long shorts and a dark blue shirt, was seen. Fire and rescue told later police about their encounter.
Police believe the killings were fueled by a deteriorating marriage. Mason and Ellis had been married for 13 years and were in the process of separating, with their home about to be sold, police say
Referring to the alleged killer – and without giving more details of the confrontation in the ocean – Currey said: ‘He’s still at large, he’s still a person of interest.
‘We can confirm citizen says it was him that swam out there.
‘Could he have drowned? Potentially, yes. Could he have come back out of the water? Potentially, yes.
‘If he’s at large, can he find a way to have some kind of transportation? Absolutely. We have his truck, he’s probably not going home.’
Currey continued: ‘This was a crime of passion. Two individuals that were apparently seeing each other for a period of time and one husband being upset about it.’
Ellis and Mason had been wed for 13 years, but the marriage had hit the rocks.
They were ‘in the midst of potentially separating or divorcing and their home was getting ready to be sold. They were conversing among themselves about separating,’ said Currey.
And revealing what could turn out to be a key element of the horror, the chief said: ‘Mr Ellis did obtain some professional service to look into some things.’
Both Ooley and Mason were respected, longtime employees. Ooley had worked his way up over nearly 25 years to become assistant director of public works
Mason had spent 14 years with Indian River as a traffic analyst technician
Appearing to imply the spurned husband had hired a private investigator, Currey added later: ‘You heard me say he obtained some professional services. He had information of some things that were taking place.
‘The library was a location where they had apparently met before. And they met again there yesterday morning and Mr Ellis was apparently aware of that.’
Both victims’ vehicles were spotted via roadside cameras coming into the city northbound just before 7 in the morning, said Currey.
Search warrants at residences connected to the suspect have been carried out.
‘Investigators recovered multiple firearms and digital evidence including cell phones which are currently undergoing forensic analysis. This remains an ongoing investigation,’ Currey said.
He added that boats and vehicles were scouring the beach, while investigators were hoping to retrieve video footage from home security cameras at houses and condos beside the water.
Ooley had worked for the county for nearly 25 years, rising from a maintenance worker to the assistant director of public works. Mason had spent 14 years with Indian River as a traffic analyst technician.
‘Danny and Stacie were not just employees, but colleagues and dedicated public servants who supported this community every day,’ Indian River said in a statement.
Police say suspected gunman Ellis then fled the scene before vanishing near the ocean, sparking an intense search
‘Their absence is deeply felt across out organization and the community they served.’
It continued: ‘This is not a normal day for our organization. We recognize many of our employees are grieving, and we want them to take the time they need. Supporting one another during this moment is not optional.
‘We know that Stacie and Danny would want us to continue working hard for the public.
‘We will take care of one another in the days ahead. We will check in, we will carry this weight together, and we ask for the public’s patience and understanding as our employees grieve.’
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Amazon MGM Studios
Phil Lord and Christopher Miller are versatile figures in the entertainment world, taking on multiple roles from executive producers on popular TV shows like “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Son of Zorn,” to producing films such as “Cocaine Bear” and “Brigsby Bear.” However, they are primarily celebrated for their work as film directors. Over the past 17 years, they have directed five feature films, a number that would have been six had they not been dismissed during the production of “Solo: A Star Wars Story.”
While their filmography isn’t as extensive as that of directors like Takashi Miike or Wes Anderson, Lord and Miller have carved out a niche as a formidable filmmaking team. They are renowned for turning seemingly doomed concepts into artistic successes, showcasing impressive range across genres. From family-friendly PG films to edgy R-rated comedies and grand space adventures, their work consistently embodies high quality and creativity.
Their five directorial ventures, including the latest hit “Project Hail Mary,” highlight the duo’s knack for crafting films that resonate with audiences. Lord and Miller create cinematic experiences that evoke both laughter and admiration, all while adhering to high standards of filmmaking. It’s no surprise they are sought after collaborators in Hollywood, given their reputation for quality storytelling, as evident with the endearing alien character Rocky in “Project Hail Mary.”
Transitioning from TV writing and creating the animated series “Clone High” for MTV, Phil Lord and Chris Miller made their debut as feature film directors with “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs.” This film, which is a loose adaptation of the beloved children’s book, doesn’t display the distinct visual flair seen in some of their later animated works. Its character designs align with the style of other CGI films from the 2000s, and its backgrounds are more conventional compared to their typically imaginative and vibrant settings.
After working as TV writers and creating the MTV program “Clone High,” Phil Lord and Chris Miller graduated to feature film directors with “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs.” A very loose adaptation of the children’s book of the same name, “Meatballs” doesn’t have the same completely idiosyncratic visual impulses as other Lord and Miller animated titles. Its big-eyed characters are very much in the mold of other 2000s CGI characters, while its backgrounds are less impressionistic or heightened and more straightforward.
However, comedically, this title’s got all the zaniness audiences would come to expect from a Lord and Miller project. A plot hinging on food raining down from the sky can’t afford to play things grimly, and “Meatballs” leans into this reality with a ludicrous vision of a disaster movie. Especially amusing are the visual gags, like the physicality of lead character Flint Lockwood (Bill Hader) when he first learns to throw snowballs.
“Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs” even lands some touching pathos rooted in a fractured father-son dynamic. Though not as visually or narratively audacious as their later works, Lord and Miller made a profound splash with this directorial debut, and their main filmmaking courses were yet to arrive.
The jury’s still out on whether “23 Jump Street” will ever happen. However, what’s clear is that the original “21 Jump Street” film from 2012 is a hoot. That’s still such a surprising outcome since movie comedies adapted from old TV shows are often outright terrible. These projects typically amount to famous actors doing cosplay of recognizable small-screen characters, like in “Starsky & Hutch” or “The Dukes of Hazzard.”
Thankfully, screenwriter Michael Bacall and directors Lord and Miller wisely embraced a whole new cast of characters, led by Morton Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Greg Jenko (Channing Tatum), that could give this project its own vibe rather than coasting on nostalgia. Granted, not every joke or plot beat here is especially creative. Certainly the prom night car chase suffers from some lighting and camerawork problems. However, the gags that do click in “21 Jump Street” are legendarily hysterical. Jenko and Schmidt formulating a rationale for the former character punching a teen who turns out to be gay, for instance, is inspired.
Tatum and Hill also have tremendously good chemistry, an essential trait for any buddy cop movie. Plus, Lord and Miller, in their live-action film directing debut, had an adept hand at creatively executing visual jokes and getting strong performances out of actors. Who knew those accomplishments could hail from a movie that, conceptually, sounded so dismal?
With “21 Jump Street,” Lord and Miller had conquered the world of comedies based on older TV shows. Returning to this world for 2014’s “22 Jump Street” required another leap of creative chutzpah: Could they make a good comedy sequel? While there are some comedy sequels out there that are better than the original movie, most of these titles are half-hearted retreads like “Horrible Bosses 2” or “Weekend at Bernie’s II.” Often, it’s just impossible to make what was once funny hysterical again, especially when the element of surprise is deflated.
“22 Jump Street” can’t entirely outrun familiarity, but it’s so much fun that it’s hard to care. Tatum and Hill are once again a joy to watch bounce off each other. Meanwhile, the college setting gives them both plenty of fun, fresh archetypes and environments (like a slam poetry session) to interact with. Ice Cube also gets more screentime in this installment, which produced some of “22 Jump Street’s” funniest moments, particularly a set piece involving an incredibly awkward brunch.
This production’s already a riot even before the inspired end credits sequence, which races through a barrage of potential “Jump Street” sequels. One of the best end-credit scenes in movies ever, it concludes the proceedings with a burst of imaginative meta-mayhem. More comedy movie sequels should take cues from “22 Jump Street’s” wit.
2. Project Hail Mary
Amazon MGM Studios
Cast: Ryan Gosling, Sandra Hüller, James Ortiz
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 156 minutes
Where to Watch: In theaters
After 12 years away from directing movies, Lord and Miller’s grand return to the big screen is “Project Hail Mary,” an adaptation of an Andy Weir novel of the same name. Impressively, this project maintains the craftsmanship of their prior works, but allows them to explore new areas of excellent artistry. For instance, none of their prior directorial efforts so heavily involved a puppet character like alien Rocky (James Ortiz), nor did their earlier forays use shifting aspect ratios so cleverly.
Even Daniel Pemberton’s score is a departure from the orchestral music found in earlier Lord and Miller works. In many ways, “Project Hail Mary” feels like a Charizard to “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatball’s” Charmander; it’s a powerful evolution of something that was already endearing. Even with a grander scope at their disposal, Lord and Miller don’t forget that compelling characters are what drove people to love their works in the first place.
Thus, the friendship between human scientist Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) and Rocky absolutely crackles. It’s impossible not to get swept up in their bond. Grace’s own self-doubts and flawed underdog demeanor are also handled intimately and potently. No wonder “Project Hail Mary” blew everyone away at the box office — it’s just tremendously well-made entertainment on every level.
It’s still insane that “The Lego Movie” exists. While the concept of a movie dedicated to this toy brand isn’t out of the question, a Lego movie that’s as thoughtful and tenderly realized as this 2014 feature is nothing short of a miracle. Part of what makes “The Lego Movie” such a classic is that it’s a genuinely hilarious comedy. The whip-fast world of a child’s imagination keeps the witty lines and silly visuals coming at breakneck speed. There’s no shortage of immensely clever dialogue, like a comment about carrier pigeons getting the hero’s message out by going to an internet cafe to spread the word.
The small details in “The Lego Movie” speak to how rich every scene is on an animation level. This is an exuberant world so absorbingly fun that it’s impossible to resist. Lord and Miller, though, deftly steer the proceedings into moving territory in the third act, when “The Lego Movie” reveals it’s actually an ode to creativity and building something new. What could’ve been hollow shilling for toys is instead much more moving and thoughtful. “The Lego Movie” nails the poignancy, while also perfectly capturing that feeling of being a child tapping into the limitless power of imagination. What a boon for cinema that something called “The Lego Movie” turned out to be this incredible.
A North Carolina woman who disappeared over two decades ago, only to be discovered alive earlier this year, shared an emotional reunion with her daughter on Thursday.
Michele Hundley Smith made an appearance in front of a Rockingham County judge in North Carolina due to a DWI charge dating back to November 2001.
After her court appearance, Smith hurried outside to embrace her daughter, Amanda Hundley, in a tearful reunion.
This touching moment marked the first time the now 63-year-old, whose hair has turned gray, had seen her daughter since she vanished from her husband and three children 24 years ago.
Michele Hundley Smith, who went missing in 2001, was reunited with her daughter Amanda after being found in North Carolina. (Fox News)
“Amanda?” Hundley Smith could be heard saying. “Your hair wasn’t this length. We walked right by you. I didn’t recognize you.”
Hundley Smith was located on Feb. 20 in an undisclosed location within North Carolina after detectives received new information about her case, the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office previously confirmed to Fox News Digital.
Sheriff Sam Page said Smith told investigators she left her family of her own accord and cited “ongoing domestic issues” as the reason for her disappearance. Page did not elaborate on those issues, and investigators have said there is no evidence of foul play.
A woman who vanished from her North Carolina family 24 years ago reappeared and embraced her daughter in an emotional reunion on Thursday, March 26.(Fox News)
Smith was 38 when she disappeared after leaving her three children at an Eden, North Carolina, home on Dec. 9, 2001, to go Christmas shopping at a K-Mart in Martinsville, Virginia. Her vehicle was never found, and she did not return home. Her husband reported her missing later that month.
Over the ensuing decades, local, state and federal agencies participated in efforts to locate her. Despite periodic appeals and flyers distributed in the region, her whereabouts remained unknown for 24 years.
Michelle Hundley Smith disappeared after leaving her home in North Carolina to go Christmas shopping in Virginia in December 2001. (Bring Michelle Hundely Smith Home/Facebook)
The New York Post reported it had located Smith in a trailer in a rural community near the South Carolina state line. Smith told the outlet she is trying to make amends with her daughter and the family she walked out on decades ago.
“My daughter is forgiving me. We are in contact, so leave me alone,” she told the outlet.
Smith’s neighbors said she had “been here for years and years” and mostly keeps to herself.
Hundley Smith posted $2,000 bond on failure to appear charge related to a DWI from the month before she vanished.(Robeson County Sheriff’s Office)
Smith appeared in court Thursday to answer to a DWI charge from November 2001.
On Nov. 11, 2001, the Eden Police Department issued a DWI charge. Smith failed to appear in court Dec. 27, 2001, for that charge, the statement said.
On Feb. 25, 2026, Smith was taken into custody by the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office at the request of Rockingham County authorities. She later posted a $2,000 bond. Her next hearing is April 23.
Luke Emmess, a celebrated English chef, is making waves as a contestant on the 2026 season of MasterChef: The Professionals. Currently, he serves as the head chef at The Wykeham Arms, an esteemed 2AA Rosette pub and hotel located in Winchester. Luke has been leading the culinary team there since 2020, following his tenure as head chef at The Still & West in Old Portsmouth.
Luke honed his culinary skills at South Downs College in Waterlooville, where he embarked on a six-year journey from school age, concluding his studies with a focus on larder and pastry. Post-graduation, he embarked on his culinary career at Jamie’s Italian in Portsmouth, dedicating five years to mastering various roles and sections within the kitchen.
His career then led him to The Still & West pub in Portsmouth, where he took on his first head chef role. Reflecting on this experience, Luke shared with the BBC, “It was my first Head Chef position. I was promoted quite young and had a lot to learn very quickly — it was definitely a sink or swim situation, but looking back it really helped me develop as a chef.” Today, he continues to lead at the award-winning The Wykeham Arms in Winchester.
Luke’s achievements include being named Fuller’s Young Chef of the Year in 2016, earning him a prestigious four-day stage in Dubai with Jason Atherton. He further distinguished himself by winning Fuller’s Chef of the Year in 2019 and reaching the regional finals of The Roux Scholarship in 2022. His latest feat is advancing to the finals of MasterChef: The Professionals in 2026.
Luke Emmess Age
Born in 1992 in Leigh Park, Portsmouth, Luke Emmess was 33 years old when he began filming for the current season of MasterChef: The Professionals. His journey exemplifies dedication and passion for the culinary arts.
Luke Emmess Family
MasterChef’s Luke Emmess lives in Havant, Hampshire, with his wife and their four children. Luke said none of his family had known he was going to be on the BBC’s cooking show MasterChef: The Professionals and he had kept it a secret from his kids.
His wife inspired one of his dishes on the show. “I did a dish based around ingredients that she loved,” Luke said. “Marcus Wareing said that he believes he could see it on a two, three Michelin star restaurant anywhere in Europe. You can’t really get much higher praise than that.”
Luke Emmess MasterChef: The Professionals
Luke Emmess is a contestant on MasterChef: The Professionals 2026. The early rounds of the show saw Luke move comfortably through skills tests and invention challenges, before he hit his stride in Knockout Week and beyond, where judges including Marcus Wareing and Monica Galetti praised his calmness under pressure.
He is set to compete with two other talented contestants for the show’s coveted trophy and title of MasterChef: The Professionals champion on Thursday, 26 March 2026. He will take on Mark O’Brien, chef patron at Willy’s Margate, and private chef Gareth Baty.
Inset: Majeed Guerry. Background: The dead end where Majeed Guerry allegedly cornered a group teens that threw a water balloon at him and shot one of them (KCPQ).
In Washington state, an alarming incident unfolded when a man reportedly threatened a group of teenagers with deadly violence after they tossed a water balloon at him, as per police reports.
According to a probable cause affidavit accessed by Law&Crime, Majeed Guerry, who has a history of four felony convictions, confronted the teens on February 28, asking them, “You think that’s funny?” before allegedly shooting one of them.
Guerry is accused of further escalating the situation by saying, “Sweet a— white boys, I should f—ing kill all of you guys. I’ll kill all you white boys in this car right now.”
The incident reportedly began when Guerry, 31, from Tacoma, was driving through the city and a water balloon was thrown through his open car window by the teenagers, soaking him. In response, he allegedly pursued them by car, eventually trapping them before exiting his vehicle to confront them.
“You guys think it’s ok to throw f—ing water at my f—ing car,” Guerry allegedly said, per the affidavit. He went on to warn them, “You’ll die out here if you keep doing s— like this. I should kill all of you right here, right now…for getting my car wet.”
The teens allegedly told police that Guerry proceeded to rob them and rough one of them up who was sitting in the front passenger seat. “Give me all your f—ing s—,” Guerry demanded, according to the group and affidavit.
“Everything you guys have,” Guerry allegedly told them. “I’ll kill all you f—ing white boys right now, you think that s—’s funny? Give me everything you f—ing got.”
While the shakedown unfolded, Guerry “intentionally struck” the front seat passenger in the face with the gun he had multiple times and pressed it to their temple and chest, according to the affidavit.
“[One of the teens] stated the suspect put the gun in through the window, at a distance of less than a foot from [the victim’s] chest, and intentionally pulled the trigger,” the affidavit alleges. The boy survived and was hospitalized with serious injuries, with police saying he spoke to investigators about what happened before the shooting.
“[The victim] stated the suspect … pressed the muzzle of the pistol into [the victim’s] right temple,” the affidavit recalls. “[The victim] remembers the gun being cold as it made contact with his temple. As the suspect did this, he said things like ‘You think that’s funny?’ and ‘I’ll kill all you white boys in this car right now.’”
Before shooting the teen, Guerry allegedly pointed his gun “at all four” of the teens and demanded their belongings. “This is around the time [the victim] was hit in the face,” the affidavit says. “[The victim] remembers being hit in the face and being dazed, and remembers the suspect grabbing his jacket collar after pistol whipping him.”
The boys told police that one of them “gave the suspect $1 initially,” which made Guerry “mad,” according to the affidavit. “[Guerry] threw the $1 bill back at them and said, ‘Do you think I’m f—ing stupid?’”
The group said they gave Guerry $100 after this and he then shot the victim, “slammed the car door,” and walked away. The teens called police and Guerry, who went to a local casino after the incident, was found and arrested.
Guerry pleaded not guilty this week to charges of assault, robbery, and unlawful possession of a firearm, according to local Fox affiliate KCPQ.
