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Beloved Friends, Tootsie and Mr Mom star passes away

<p>Teri Garr, the beloved actress known for her iconic roles in classic films such as <em>Young Frankenstein </em>and <em>Tootsie </em>and her appearances on <em>Friends</em>, has passed away at the age of 79.</p> <p>Her death, confirmed by her publicist Heidi Schaeffer, occurred on Tuesday in Los Angeles, surrounded by family and friends. Garr's passing follows a long battle with multiple sclerosis, a condition she publicly disclosed in 2002 to raise awareness about the disease and its impact on daily life.</p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Born Terry Ann Garr in Lakewood, Ohio, in 1944, Teri grew up in a theatrical family; her father was a vaudeville performer and her mother a Rockette. This background set the stage for Garr's early career, which began as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films during the 1960s. Her breakout role came in 1974 when she starred as Inga, the charming lab assistant to Gene Wilder's character in Mel Brooks' </span><em style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Young Frankenstein</em><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">. The film became a cornerstone of American comedy, showcasing Garr's unique blend of humour and warmth.</span></p> <p>Garr further solidified her place in cinematic history with her performance in <em>Tootsie</em> in 1982, where she portrayed the vulnerable actress friend of Dustin Hoffman’s character. This role earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Critics praised her ability to balance comedy with emotional depth, with film critic Pauline Kael calling her "the funniest neurotic dizzy dame on the screen" at that time.</p> <p>Despite her success, Garr faced significant challenges due to her health. She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis during the filming of <em>Tootsie</em>, a struggle she detailed in her memoir, <em>Speedbumps: Flooring It Through Hollywood</em>. In it, she described MS as a "sneaky disease," one that complicated her life and career but did not define it. “My body had a trick or two up its sleeve," she wrote. "A stumble here, a tingling finger there. I was trained as a dancer and knew better than to indulge the random aches and pains that visited now and then. Being a successful Hollywood actress may be challenging, but little did I know that the very body that had always been my calling card would betray me.”</p> <p>Garr became an advocate for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, using her platform to inspire others facing similar challenges.</p> <p>Throughout her career, Garr appeared in over 140 film and TV projects. She was known for her roles in <em>Mr. Mom</em>, <em>Close Encounters of the Third Kind</em>, and various television shows including <em>Friends</em>, where she played Phoebe's birth mother. Her playful spirit and comedic timing made her a favourite among audiences and fellow actors alike.</p> <p>In recent years, Garr had limited her appearances due to health issues but remained an influential figure in Hollywood. Tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues alike, celebrating her legacy as a pioneer for women in comedy and an inspiration for those battling chronic illnesses. </p> <p>Teri Garr leaves behind a rich legacy filled with laughter and heart. She is survived by her daughter Molly O'Neil and grandson Tyryn. Her contributions to film and television will be remembered fondly by generations to come.</p> <p><em>Images: CNN \ Fox Studios</em></p>

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"Happiest man alive": Sunrise star ties the knot

<p><em>Sunrise</em> star James Tobin has tied the knot with his long-time partner Farrah in an intimate ceremony at the Junee Licorice and Chocolate factory in the NSW Riverina region.</p> <p>After getting engaged last year, the couple were joined by their close friends and family with James looking dashing in a cream suit paired with a crisp blue shirt and tie, finishing off his modern look with a boutonniere and tan loafers.</p> <p>Farah opted for an equally elegant look wearing a glamorous white, beaded gown, that stopped above the knee and was sleeveless.</p> <p>Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a long lunch, before dancing the night away at the venue.</p> <p>The couple opted to ditch the traditional wedding cake, instead choosing a smash cake, which they broke into as their wedding guests watched on.</p> <p>Some wedding guests shared photos of the loved up couple on their special day, with one person saying it was a "beautiful day", while another said the wedding had the "best dance floor since the early 2000s".</p> <p>Tobin revealed he and Farah got engaged last October in a post on Instagram, saying, “A bit of news… we’re getting married ❤️ I’m thrilled to tell you I asked Farrah to marry me and she said ‘yes’."</p> <p>"We’re looking forward to starting the next chapter of our lives together. I’m the happiest man alive ,” he ended his post.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

Relationships

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Wheel of Fortune star weds in lavish ceremony

<p>Sophie Falkiner has tied the knot with Stephen Wood in a lavish ceremony in Sydney's Northern Beaches. </p> <p>The <em>Wheel of Fortune</em> presenter, 51,  looked stunning in a white strapless gown with beading on the corset. She had her hair in Hollywood waves and completed the look with a pop of red lipstick.</p> <p>The groom complimented her in a classic tux with a white rose pinned to the lapel. </p> <p>The ceremony took place at Pasadena, a restaurant on Sydney's Northern Beaches, decorated with pink and white flowers that matched the pink velvet chairs and white draping on the ceiling. </p> <p>The couple said "I do" on the waterfront at  Church Point, with a flower arch behind them.</p> <p>Friends congratulated the bride and groom on social media. </p> <p>"The most beautiful happy wedding of @sophie_falkiner and Steve, congratulations to a gorgeous couple and family," wrote entrepreneur, Jose Bryce Smith.</p> <p>"THE most beautiful wedding ever. The love, warmth, beauty, talent, company, location… and my favourite part, the speeches! Enchanting, elegant and full of heart, just like our @sophie_falkiner. Congratulations Sophie and Stephen! May your joy and happiness only multiply!" wrote digital creator, Alina Rose.</p> <p>The couple got engaged two years ago after Wood popped the question while they were holidaying in Queensland's idyllic Whitsunday Islands.</p> <p>They met after Falkiner's divorce from radio executive Tony Thomas after 14 years of marriage and they share children Bella, 17, and Jack, 14.</p> <p>Falkiner described how "easy" her new relationship was, saying:  "I think when you meet the right person it's easy. There's a comradery, a friendship."</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Relationships

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Broadway star files for divorce amid Hugh Jackman rumour

<p>Broadway star Sutton Foster has filed for divorce from her screenwriter husband, Ted Griffin, after ten years of marriage. </p> <p>The 49-year-old actress filed for uncontested divorce in New York County Supreme Court on Tuesday, according to <em>Page Six</em>. </p> <p>The pair got married in Santa Barbara in 2014, and adopted their daughter Emily three years later. </p> <p>Page Six reports that rumours about Foster's marriage being on the rocks began circulating in Broadway circles when she starred in The Music Man alongside Hugh Jackman. They also said that multiple sources have claimed the pair have fallen in love. </p> <p>“They are 100 per cent together and are in love and want to spend the rest of their lives together,” a source previously told <em>Page Six</em>.</p> <p>The publication claims that their relationship is going strong, but they have been staying out of the public eye and keeping it under wraps. </p> <p>“They are still together,” a source told <em>Page Six</em>. </p> <p>“They go out of their way to hide it, but it’s common knowledge.”</p> <p>Jackman filed for divorce from Deborra-Lee Furness, after 27 years of marriage, in September 2023. </p> <p>Furness and Jackman released a joint statement at the time, saying: “We have been blessed to share almost three decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage. Our journey now is shifting, and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth.”</p> <p>Neither Jackman or Foster have commented on the reports. </p> <p><em>Image: Lev Radin/Pacific Press/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p>

Relationships

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Bondi Rescue star charged with domestic violence offences

<p><em>Bondi Rescue</em> star Andrew Reid is facing domestic violence charges over a series of alleged assault in Sydney. </p> <p>The 45-year-old lifeguard and reality TV star has pleaded not guilty to two counts of common assault, which allegedly took place between November 2022 and January this year on the city's North Shore, according to the<em> Sydney Morning Herald</em>. </p> <p>He also faces a third assault charge dating back to March, while a fourth domestic violence charged was dismissed. </p> <p>The allegations relate to the same woman, who has been listed as a protected person under an apprehended domestic violence order against Reid. </p> <p>Reid has appeared at a hearing to oppose the allegations against him. </p> <p>His lawyer Margaret Cunneen told the Sydney Morning Herald that the allegations will be "vigorously defended". </p> <p>"There are three very disparate allegations with a long time in between all, of which on the defence case, could be accounted for by an accident," she said. </p> <p>"There is no hitting or punching alleged. His good character will be squarely raised in the question of proof in these allegations"</p> <p>Earlier this year, the longtime Bondi Rescue star made headlines for helping people during the deadly Westfield Bondi Junction attack in April. </p> <p>Reid, who has first-aid training, aided some of the wounded during the attack that left six people dead. </p> <p>At the time, he had been locked behind a safety door in Myer, before he convinced a security guard to let him out to help a woman who was bleeding. </p> <p>The hearing will continue in March next year. </p> <p><strong><em>Need to talk to someone? Don't go it alone.</em></strong></p> <p><em>Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at <strong>1800RESPECT (1800 737 732)</strong>.</em></p> <p><em>Readers seeking support can also contact Lifeline on <strong>13 11 14 </strong>or beyond blue on <strong>1300 22 4636</strong>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Nine</em></p>

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"One of the greatest men": Tarzan star dies at age 86

<p><em>Tarzan</em> star Ron Ely has died at the age of 86. </p> <p>The news of his passing was confirmed in an emotional statement by his daughter Kirsten, who wrote, “The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad."</p> <p>“My father was someone that people called a hero. He was an actor, writer, coach, mentor, family man and leader. He created a powerful wave of positive influence wherever he went. The impact he had on others is something that I have never witnessed in any other person – there was something truly magical about him. This is how the world knew him.”</p> <p>“I knew him as my dad – and what a heaven sent honour that has been. To me, he hung the moon.”</p> <p>“My father’s life story was one of relentless perseverance, unending dedication to his family and friends, courage to do what was right, and willing sacrifice to facilitate the dreams of those he loved,” Kirsten continued.</p> <p>“It was also a story of joy and love – something everyone close to him had the privilege of experiencing. Once you knew my father’s love, the world grew to be a brighter and more meaningful place.”</p> <p>“I am doing my best to walk this path of loss with the strength and grace that I know he would want for me,” she added. </p> <p>“My greatest comfort is knowing that my dad is with my momma and my brother. It is also my greatest sadness because I miss them all so much that it’s etched into my soul. I will proudly carry all of my favourite pieces of them – lovingly cemented into my heart – until we all meet again.”</p> <p>Ely first one to fame in the 1960s with his role as <em>Tarzan</em> in the NBC TV series, which ran from 1966 to 1968. </p> <p>He later returned for Universal’s <em>Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze</em> in 1975, and took on guest roles on some of TV’s biggest shows, including <em>Wonder Woman</em>, <em>The Love Boat</em>, <em>Fantasy Island</em> and <em>Superboy</em>.</p> <p>Ely is survived by his daughters, Kirstin and Kaitland. In 2019, his son, Cameron, was shot and killed by Santa Barbara County sheriff's deputies after allegedly stabbing his mother, Ely’s wife, to death.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Matthew Rettenmund / Banner/Kobal / Shutterstock Editorial</em></p>

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Nova radio star breaks down in heartwarming interview with Kate Winslet

<p>Kate Winslet shared a heartwarming moment live on-air with Kate Ritchie on <em>Nova </em>radio on Wednesday morning.</p> <p>The Hollywood star appeared on <em>Fitzy and Wippa with Kate Ritchie </em>to promote her new movie, <em>Lee</em>, where Ritchie brought up the star's powerful comments about the scrutiny women in the public eye face. </p> <p>“I have to say to, I just want to thank you for the conversations that you have about body image," Ritchie said. </p> <p>“What we do have in common is that we somewhat grew up in the public eye; I grew up on a television show," the former<em> Home and Away</em> actress added. </p> <p>She then praised Winslet for continually speaking out about “women and young girls, growing up and having people comment about us and pass judgement and feel as though its OK to say certain things. I think we’ve always known that it's not OK."</p> <p>“But it’s been really hard conversation to have and it’s hard to sometimes stand up and say ‘This does not make me feel good’ and ‘it’s not OK for someone to speak that way’, and someone of your calibre, I hope you know the value of you having these conversations. Because it makes me, and I’m sure millions of other women …” she said while tearing up. </p> <p>“Oh she’s unravelling in here!” Winslet said in attempt to lighten the mood, as she shared a smile in agreement. </p> <p>“That’s really very kind,” said Winslet. “I think women are getting better at standing up for each other as well as standing up for ourselves.”</p> <p>Winslet has been very vocal about women standing up for themselves and has led by example, revealing in another interview that she was forced to defend herself to a crew member while filming the movie. </p> <p>“There’s a bit where Lee’s sitting on a bench in a bikini and one of the crew came up between takes and said: ‘You might want to sit up straighter.’ So you can’t see my belly rolls? Not on your life! It was deliberate, you know?” she told <em>Harper's Bazaar UK</em>. </p> <p><em>Images: Nova</em></p>

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Baywatch star dies after lengthy health battle

<p><em>Baywatch</em> actor Michael Newman has died at the age of 68 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease. </p> <p>The actor, who played  lifeguard Mike “Newmie” Newman on <em>Baywatch</em> in the 1990s, was diagnosed with the neurological condition 18 years ago, and died “from heart complications” on Sunday evening “surrounded by his family and friends.”</p> <p>His death was confirmed Tuesday by Newman’s close friend, Matt Felker, who recently directed the Hulu docu-series about <em>Baywatch</em>.</p> <p>“I got to see Mike the last time he was conscious and he looked [at] me and in typical Mike fashion said, ‘You’re just in time,’” Felker told <a href="https://people.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>People</em>.</a></p> <p>Newman was the only <em>Baywatch</em> cast member who was a real-life lifeguard. He appeared on 150 episodes of the show, the most of anyone except David Hasselhoff.</p> <p>While starring on Baywatch, he continued to work as a full-time firefighter and returned to the job after the show ended in 2001, until he retired after 25 years.</p> <p>Newman was 50 when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2006, as he spoke about living with the disease just months ago. </p> <p>“This terminal disease has allowed me a lot of thinking time, which I maybe didn’t want, but it’s brought me wisdom,” Newman told <em>People</em> in August.</p> <p>“My body has changed so slowly that I hardly notice it, yet I am constantly reminded that Parkinson’s has now become the centre of my life,” he added.</p> <p>“I am cherishing the days that I get to be on this earth with family and friends,” he went on. “I’m taking life seriously.”</p> <p>Newman spent the final years of his life raising money with the Michael J. Fox Foundation to help find a cure for Parkinson’s.</p> <p>The late star is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sarah, their children Chris and Emily, and their 1-year-old granddaughter, Charlie.</p> <p><em>Image credits: SplashNews.com/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

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NRL star ties the knot in lavish Italian wedding

<p>Sam Burgess and Lucy Graham have tied the knot! </p> <p>The couple said "I do" in Rome, Italy over the weekend, one year after they welcomed their daughter Robbie. </p> <p>Graham took to Instagram to share a series of photos from their big day, alongside the caption: "20.10.24". </p> <p>The couple married at the historic Villa  Aurelia, a 17th-century Baroque villa nestled on the highest point of the walls within Rome.</p> <p>Instead of going with the traditional white dress, Graham wore a champagne coloured gown with a matching veil, with daughter Robbie in a similar coloured dress. </p> <p>The former NRL player wore a black suit with a white button up and a black bowtie. </p> <p>A lot of the decor was neutral-toned but they had beautiful red flowers as their centrepieces which added a pop of colour. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DBYjWBztMab/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DBYjWBztMab/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Lucy Graham (@lcygrhm)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p> </p> <p>Loved ones took to the comments to congratulate the couple, with Tahlia Giumelli, who is married to Tom Burgess, commenting: "Congratulations guys! Hope you had a beautiful day. Everyone looking gorgeous. Xx." </p> <p>Blake Taaffe, who used to play for the Rabbitohs before moving to the Bulldogs, also commented saying:  "Congrats guys 💙💙"</p> <p>Hymel Hunt, who also used to play for the Rabbitohs said: "Congrats guys 😍 love the pics!!!!"</p> <p>Burgess and Graham got engaged in June 2023 after confirming their relationship in September 2022. </p> <p>In September 2023 they had welcomed their daughter Robbie during the grand final week. </p> <p>Burgess was previously married to Phoebe Burgess from 2015 to 2019. They share two children Poppy, 7, and Billy, 5. </p> <p><em><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Images: Instagram</span></em></p>

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One Direction star passes away aged 31

<p>Former One Direction star Liam Payne has reportedly been found dead outside a hotel in Buenos Aires, in Argentina, according to local newspaper <em>La Nacion</em>.</p> <p>The 31-year-old is believed to have fallen from the third floor of a hotel at around 5pm local time the newspaper said, citing emergency services.</p> <p>According to<em> La Nacion</em> the local police station was called by the hotel manager who reported "an aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol". </p> <p>It is reported that Payne fell from around 13 or 14 metres and suffered "very serious injuries incompatible with life." </p> <p>Alberto Crescenti, head of the state emergency medical system SAME (El Sistema de Atención Médica de Emergencias), told local TV that Payne had fallen into a courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in the Palermo neighbourhood.</p> <p>“At 17.11, a SAME team arrived and confirmed the man’s death. We later learned that he was a singer in a musical group.</p> <p>“Unfortunately, he had injuries incompatible with life as a result of his fall, so we had to confirm his death. There was no possibility of resuscitation.”</p> <p>Payne was one of the founding members of One Direction, one of the most loved boy bands of the past decade.</p> <p>He auditioned first as a solo act for the UK reality series The X Factor in 2008, before being eliminated.</p> <p>In 2010 he auditioned again and was grouped with Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik by the judges to form One Direction.</p> <p><em>Image: SplashNews.com/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p> <p> </p>

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"One of the best": Home and Away stars pay tribute to colleague

<p>Former and current stars of <em>Home and Away</em> have paid tribute to their colleague, who has passed away after a battle with cancer. </p> <p>Bruce Murray, who worked as a key grip behind the scenes of the show, has died just one year after going public with his diagnosis of oesophageal cancer. </p> <p>The news of his passing has rocked the show, with cast mates taking to social media to share their stories of their time with Bruce. </p> <p>"Love you Brucey, you beautiful thing," Emily Weir, who plays Mackenzie Booth said on Instagram.</p> <p>What a man, never a dull moment on the set or on the dance floor," Sarah Roberts, who played Willow Harris on the show before leaving in 2021, wrote.</p> <p>"One of the reasons I loved going to work... couldn't stop giggling at his jokes and his dance moves. I'll miss you Brucey!"</p> <p>"One of the best gone too soon," <em>Home and Away</em>'s head of makeup and hair, Laura Vazquez posted on Instagram. "Will miss you, mate. Can't believe I won't be seeing you again. RIP Brucey, you absolute legend."</p> <p>Murray's diagnosis with stage four oesophageal cancer was made public in October 2023, when his loved ones launched a GoFundMe page to help raise money for his family as he underwent treatment.</p> <p>"Recently our beloved, good friend, Bruce Murray was diagnosed with Stage 4 Oesophageal Cancer which has unfortunately gone into his blood stream and formed multiple cancers on his bones – ribs, spine, collar bone, sacrum, and hips," the GoFundMe page's message read.</p> <p>Many<em> Home and Away</em> alumni contributed to the GoFundMe, including Ada Nicodemou, Matt Little, Georgie Parker, Jessica Tovey, Stephanie Panozzo, Pia Miller, Ethan Browne, Axle Whitehead, and Philippa Northeast as well as numerous other anonymous donations and donations from producers and other Home and Away staffers, with the page raising $51k for Bruce's treatment.</p> <p>Bruce is survived by his wife of 19 years, Shelley Murray – who is a costume designer and head of the <em>Home and Away</em> wardrobe department – and their two children.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

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30 years ago, Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction shook Hollywood and redefined ‘cool’ cinema

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ben-mccann-398197">Ben McCann</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119">University of Adelaide</a></em></p> <p>What might be the most seismic moment in American cinema? Film “speaking” for the first time in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SzltpkGz0M">The Jazz Singer</a>? Dorothy <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4eQmTizTSo">entering</a> the Land of Oz? That <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yw_D3a2pZtk">menacing shark</a> that in 1975 invented the <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-history-of-the-blockbuster-movie/">summer blockbuster</a>?</p> <p>Or how about that moment when two hitmen on their way to a job began talking about the intricacies of European fast food while listening to Kool &amp; The Gang?</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2j_A6e-VESk?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>Directed by Quentin Tarantino, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110912/">Pulp Fiction</a> (1994) celebrates its 30th birthday this month. Watching it now, this story of a motley crew of mobsters, drug dealers and lowlifes in sunny Los Angeles still feels startlingly new.</p> <p>Widely regarded as Tarantino’s masterpiece, the director’s dazzling second film was considered era-defining for its memorable dialogue, innovative narrative structure and unique blend of humour and violence. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards, made stars of Samuel L. Jackson and Uma Thurman, and revitalised John Travolta’s career.</p> <p>Pulp Fiction is dark, often poignant, and very funny. It is, as one critic <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2015/apr/13/my-favourite-cannes-winner-pulp-fiction">describes it</a>, an “intravenous jab of callous madness, black comedy and strange unwholesome euphoria”.</p> <h2>A Möbius strip plot</h2> <p>Famous for its non-linear narrative, Pulp Fiction weaves together <a href="https://thescriptlab.com/features/main/1457-structure-of-pulp-fiction-method-in-the-madness/">a trio of connected crime stories</a>. The three chapters – Vincent Vega and Marsellus Wallace’s Wife, The Gold Watch and The Bonnie Situation – loop, twist and intersect but, crucially, never confuse the viewer.</p> <p>Tarantino has often paid tribute to French filmmakers <a href="https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/jean-luc-godard-quentin-tarantino-ultimate-hero/">Jean-Luc Godard</a> and <a href="https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/director-deeply-inspired-quentin-tarantino/">Jean-Pierre Melville</a>, whose earlier films also presented their narratives out of chronological order and modified the rules of the crime genre.</p> <p>By inviting audiences to piece Pulp Fiction together like a puzzle, Tarantino laid the way for subsequent achronological films such as Memento (2000), Go (1999) and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998).</p> <h2>Pop culture meets postmodernism</h2> <p>In his influential essay Postmodernism, or the Cultural Logic of Late Capitalism, first published in 1984, political theorist Frederic Jameson coined the term “<a href="https://literariness.org/2016/04/04/fredric-jamesons-concept-of-depthlessness/">new depthlessness</a>” to describe postmodern culture.</p> <p>Jameson perceived a shift away from the depth, meaning and authenticity that characterised earlier forms of culture, towards a focus on surface and style.</p> <p>Pulp Fiction <a href="http://moviemezzanine.com/the-eyes-behind-the-mask-pulp-fiction-and-postmodernity-20-years-later/">fits</a> Jameson’s definition of depthlessness. It is stuffed with homages to popular culture and a vivid array of character types drawn from other B-movies – hitmen, molls, mob bosses, double-crossing boxers, traumatised war veterans and tuxedo-wearing “fixers”. It is a film of surfaces and <a href="https://wiki.tarantino.info/index.php/Pulp_Fiction_Movie_References_Guide">allusions</a>.</p> <p>Jackson, Travolta and Thurman feature alongside established 1990s box-office stars including Bruce Willis and industry stalwarts Harvey Keitel and Christopher Walken, both of whom have brief but memorable cameos.</p> <p>The film’s most iconic scene takes place at the retro 1950s-themed Jack Rabbit Slim’s diner. Thurman’s twist contest with Travolta fondly echoes Travolta’s earlier dancing in Saturday Night Fever (1977) and pays homage to other dance scenes in films such as 8 ½ (1963) and Band of Outsiders (1964).</p> <h2>Words and music</h2> <p>Film critic Roger Ebert <a href="https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/great-movie-pulp-fiction-1994">once noted</a> how Tarantino’s characters “often speak at right angles to the action”, giving long speeches before getting on with the job at hand.</p> <p>Pulp Fiction is full of witty and quotable monologues and dialogue, ranging from the philosophical to the mundane. Conversations about foot massages and blueberry pie bump up against Bible verses and reflections on fate and redemption.</p> <p>The film’s 1995 Oscar for Best Original Screenplay was a fitting achievement for Tarantino, who many regard as <a href="https://medium.com/word-garden/tarantinos-conversations-are-the-best-in-movie-history-this-is-why-52e06de4f773">the snappiest writer</a> in film history. Countless other filmmakers have looked to replicate Pulp Fiction’s mashup of cool and coarse.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S6Vuj8tF-kk?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>Needle drops are <a href="https://medium.com/cuepoint/the-music-of-pulp-fiction-8a13a7cdb5a8">just as important</a> in establishing Pulp Fiction’s mood and tone. The film’s eclectic soundtrack pings between surf rock, soul and classic rock ‘n’ roll.</p> <p>The soundtrack peaked at No. 21 on the Billboard 200 in 1994 and stayed in the charts for <a href="https://www.grammy.com/news/how-pulp-fiction-reinvented-the-film-soundtrack-anniversary">more than a year</a>.</p> <h2>Dividing the critics</h2> <p>Though it was officially released in October 1994, Pulp Fiction had already made a stir earlier that by winning the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.</p> <p>Many expected Krzysztof Kieślowski’s Three Colours: Red to take <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2011/nov/09/three-colours-red-cannes">the top prize</a>. Tarantino himself seemed stunned, telling the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnS5pXQQmR4&amp;t=188s">Cannes audience</a>: “I don’t make the kind of movies that bring people together. I make movies that split people apart.”</p> <p>The film has divided critics ever since.</p> <p>Many adored Pulp Fiction for its intoxicating allure and sheer adrenaline-fuelled pleasure. To this day it maintains a 92% critic score on <a href="https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/pulp_fiction">Rotten Tomatoes</a>. Film critic Todd McCarthy <a href="https://variety.com/1994/film/reviews/pulp-fiction-1200437049/">called it</a> a film “bulging with boldness, humour and diabolical invention”.</p> <p>But the backlash was equally robust. <a href="https://www.newstatesman.com/culture/2014/10/pulp-fiction-bad-film">Some</a> criticised the film for its excessive gore and irresponsible use of racial slurs. Screenwriting guru Syd Field <a href="https://sydfield.com/syd_resources/pulp-fiction/">felt</a> it was too shallow and too talky. Jean-Luc Godard, once one of Tarantino’s idol, apparently <a href="https://www.worldofreel.com/blog/2022/12/0eav5zg509ajlqjg9xc8em2m3xrorw">hated it</a>.</p> <p>Nonetheless, its financial success (a <a href="https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt0110912/">box office return</a> of US$213 million from an $8 million budget) signalled the growing importance and cultural prestige of independent US films. Miramax, the studio that backed it, went on to <a href="https://www.google.com.au/books/edition/Down_and_Dirty_Pictures/aXn_CwAAQBAJ?hl=en&amp;gbpv=1&amp;dq=down+and+dirty+pictures,+biskind&amp;printsec=frontcover">become</a> a major force in the industry.</p> <h2>A lasting legacy</h2> <p>Shortly after Pulp Fiction’s release, the word “Tarantinoesque” <a href="https://www.oed.com/dictionary/tarantinoesque_adj">appeared</a> in the Oxofrd English Dictionary. The entry reads:</p> <blockquote> <p>Resembling or imitative of the films of Quentin Tarantino; characteristic or reminiscent of these films Tarantino’s films are typically characterised by graphic and stylized violence, non-linear storylines, cineliterate references, satirical themes, and sharp dialogue.</p> </blockquote> <p>Pulp Fiction has since been parodied and knocked off countless times. Hollywood suddenly began <a href="http://www.tasteofcinema.com/2016/the-10-worst-copycat-films-of-pulp-fiction/">mass-producing low-budget crime thrillers</a> with witty, self-reflexive dialogue. Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead (1995), 2 Days In The Valley (1996) and Very Bad Things (1998) are just some example.</p> <p>Graffiti artist Bansky even <a href="https://banksyexplained.com/pulp-fiction-2004/">stencilled</a> the likeness of Jules and Vincent all over London, with bananas in place of guns. The Simpsons <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4u6wR_2S4xQ">got in on the act</a> too.</p> <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4u6wR_2S4xQ?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <p>Tarantino <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/profile-hollywood-s-hitman-quentin-tarantino-a-sadist-or-just-a-stylist-david-thomson-on-the-boywonder-director-of-pulp-fiction-1444551.html">once summed up</a> his working method as follows:</p> <blockquote> <p>Ultimately all I’m trying to do is merge sophisticated storytelling with lurid subject matter. I reckon that makes for an entertaining night at the movies.</p> </blockquote> <p>I’d say there’s no better way to describe Pulp Fiction.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/236877/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ben-mccann-398197">Ben McCann</a>, Associate Professor of French Studies, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119">University of Adelaide</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Miramax</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/30-years-ago-tarantinos-pulp-fiction-shook-hollywood-and-redefined-cool-cinema-236877">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

Movies

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Hugh Jackman pleads for help in search for missing Broadway star

<p>Hugh Jackman is using his influence and wide reach to assist in the search for his former Broadway co-star, Zelig Williams, who has been missing since early October.</p> <p>Williams, a 28-year-old performer known for his roles in <em>MJ The Musical</em> and <em>Hamilton</em>, was last seen on October 3 at his home in Columbia, South Carolina. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a white T-shirt, black shorts and brown slides.</p> <p>The non-profit organisation <a href="https://blackandmissinginc.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Black and Missing</a> has released a missing person poster, stating that authorities believe Williams was last spotted driving in the Congaree National Park area, where his vehicle was later found abandoned.</p> <p>Jackman, who performed with Williams during the 2019 concert tour <em>The Man. The Music. The Show</em>, has taken to social media to amplify the call for information. On his 56th birthday, the Australian actor shared a photo of Williams and his mother with a link to a news report from <em>Good Morning America</em>, urging his 34.5 million Instagram followers to report any information to local authorities.</p> <p>"If anyone has any information on the whereabouts of ZELIG WILLIAMS please reach out to your local authorities," Jackman wrote in his post. He has continued to spread the message, using Instagram stories to ask followers to contact the Richland County Sheriff's Office with any potential leads.</p> <p>"Zelig, we love you and are praying for your safe return. Please pass this message on!!!" Jackman added.</p> <p>Williams' disappearance has left his family in anguish. His aunt, Christine McLaughlin Barber, initially believed he might have been involved in a car accident after receiving an SOS signal from his phone around 9:50am on October 3, shortly after he left home. However, authorities have since ruled out this possibility.</p> <p>Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott revealed to local news outlet WISTV that an extensive search operation has been underway, utilising helicopters, boats and drones to cover vast areas. "We've searched on foot, in the air, at various locations," Lott said. "We are also using other investigative techniques involving cell phones and other means, which I cannot disclose at this time."</p> <p>Lott also said that Williams is in need of prescription medication, adding urgency to the search.</p> <p>Williams' cousin, Mieoki Corbin-Jacobs, expressed the family's heartbreak, telling WISTV: "It's devastation. It's devastation for someone who is so close to his family to just disappear like that... there's no way to describe it."</p> <p>The Broadway community, along with Jackman, continues to rally in hopes of locating Williams and bringing him home safely.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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Channel 7 star hospitalised over heart issue

<p>Former Brisbane Lions AFLW star Kate McCarthy’s celebrations following the Brisbane Lions men’s AFL grand final victory were cut short after she was hospitalised due to an ongoing heart condition.</p> <p>McCarthy, 31, who played 42 games in the AFLW for the Brisbane Lions, St Kilda and Hawthorn across seven seasons before retiring, has been an active presence in the world of AFL even after stepping off the field. She currently serves as a commentator for Triple M and Channel 7, having provided coverage for Channel 7 during the AFL grand final weekend. McCarthy also co-hosts panel shows <em>Armchair Experts</em> and <em>Talking W</em>.</p> <p>Over the weekend, McCarthy celebrated the Lions’ dominant 60-point grand final win over the Sydney Swans and their AFLW team’s two-point victory over the Adelaide Crows, which pushed the women’s team to second place on the ladder.</p> <p>However, McCarthy took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday to reveal she had been hospitalised due to a heart-related issue, sharing a light-hearted post about the situation: “When the @brisbanelions & @lionsaflw double over the weekend sends you into ventricular tachycardia."</p> <p>Ventricular tachycardia is a condition where the heart beats faster than 100 beats per minute, causing a rapid and irregular rhythm. This can become life-threatening if left untreated, especially for individuals with underlying heart conditions.</p> <p>McCarthy’s heart issues are particularly dangerous due to her reliance on a pacemaker, which was implanted after she suffered from seizures as a child. At the age of five, McCarthy was diagnosed with an intermittent third-degree heart block, a condition where the electrical signals that control the heart’s rhythm fail to fire properly. After several seizures during her childhood, including a severe episode when she was 12, she underwent emergency surgery to install the pacemaker.</p> <p>Despite these health challenges, McCarthy’s sporting career has been nothing short of remarkable. She represented Queensland in cricket and touch footy and played for Australia in the latter before making her AFLW debut for the Lions in 2017. Her AFLW career highlights include being named an All-Australian and the Lions’ leading goal kicker in their inaugural season.</p> <p>McCarthy’s heart condition appears to be under control, with her pacemaker functioning as intended. While her health scare has been concerning, she reassured her followers that she is on the mend, humorously comparing her pacemaker’s performance to that of the Sydney Swans on grand final day.</p> <p>"On the mend now," McCarthy wrote, "but Monday night review shows pacemaker performing like the Swans on the big stage.”</p> <p><em>Images: Twitter (X)</em></p>

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Hollywood legend Kris Kristofferson dies at age 88

<p>Music and movie legend Kris Kristofferson has died at the age of 88. </p> <p>The acclaimed country singer and actor who appeared in A Star is Born alongside Barbara Streisand passed away "peacefully” at his home in Hawaii on September 28th surrounded by family, according to <a href="https://people.com/kris-kristofferson-dead-at-88-7496435"><em>People</em>.</a> </p> <p>No cause of death has yet been announced. </p> <p>The statement from his family read, “It is with a heavy heart that we share the news our husband/father/grandfather, Kris Kristofferson, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 28 at home. We’re all so blessed for our time with him. Thank you for loving him all these many years, and when you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us all.”</p> <p>Throughout his career as a musician, Kristofferson won multiple Grammy's and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004.</p> <p>He was also known for his acting accolades, including a Golden Globe award for Best Actor in a musical for <em>A Star Is Born</em> and starring in the popular <em>Blade</em> franchise.</p> <p>Kristofferson’s death comes three and a half years after he announced his retirement, following what was to be his final concert in Florida in February 2020. </p> <p>Kristofferson was a father to eight children and is survived by his third wife, Lisa Meyers, who he married in 1983.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Joanne Davidson/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

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Harry Potter stars pay tribute to Dame Maggie Smith

<p>The stars of the <em>Harry Potter</em> franchise have paid tribute to Dame Maggie Smith, after the Oscar-winning actress passed away on Friday at the age of 89. </p> <p>Smith, who played the role of Professor McGonagall throughout the eight movies, was honoured by dozens of her co-stars, including Harry Potter himself: Daniel Radcliffe. </p> <p>Radcliffe shared a statement to Entertainment Weekly, writing, "She was a fierce intellect, a gloriously sharp tongue, could intimidate and charm in the same instant and was, as everyone will tell you, extremely funny."</p> <p>"I will always consider myself amazingly lucky to have been able to work with her, and to spend time around her on set. The word legend is overused but if it applies to anyone in our industry then it applies to her. Thank you Maggie."</p> <p>Emma Watson also shared a tribute on Instagram alongside the two actresses working together, reflecting on Smith's impact on set. </p> <p>She said, "When I was younger I had no idea of Maggie's legend — the woman I was fortunate to share space with. It is only as I've become an adult that I've come to appreciate that I shared the screen with a true definition of greatness."</p> <p>"She was real, honest, funny and self-honouring. Maggie, there were a lot of male professors and by God you held your own. Thank you for all of your kindness. I'll miss you."</p> <p>Rupert Grint also shared a photo of the pair together, referencing a particular fan favourite scene from the fourth <em>Harry Potter</em> film, writing, "Heartbroken to hear about Maggie. She was so special, always hilarious and always kind. I feel incredibly lucky to have shared a set with her and particularly lucky to have shared a dance. I'll miss you, Maggie. Sending all my love to her family."</p> <p>Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black in the franchise, shared a statement with Entertainment Weekly on Maggie's passing, praising her acting talents, saying,  "Maggie Smith, one of the true Greats along with [Laurence] Olivier and [John] Gielgud… those who saw her dazzling talent on the stage say they can never forget her. Her magnificent film performances remain for all to see and enjoy. Such an artist comes along about every other generation. If one is lucky."</p> <p>The news of Maggie Smith's passing was confirmed by her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens who said in a statement, “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27 September."</p> <p>“An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Warner Brothers/Paul Marriott/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

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Iconic Days of Our Lives star dies aged 70

<p>Drake Hogestyn has passed away aged 70. </p> <p>The<em> Days of Our Lives </em>actor, known for his long-running role as John Black passed away on Saturday after a battle with pancreatic cancer, according to a statement shared by his family on Instagram.</p> <p>“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the statement began.</p> <p>“He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination.”</p> <p>“After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor. He loved performing for the ‘Days’ audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”</p> <p>Hogestyn first appeared on the iconic US soap opera in 1986, and played John Black for 38 years. </p> <p>In a statement to<em> Soap Opera Digest, Days Of Our Lives</em> executive producer Ken Corday remembered the actor, who appeared in more than 4,200 episodes of the show. </p> <p>“This is a very difficult one for all of us,” he said. </p> <p>“Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not sufficient words to express how deeply he will be missed. His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.”</p> <p>His co-stars and colleagues have also paid their respects on social media. </p> <p>“I’m so saddened by this news,” tweeted Kassie DePaiva, who played Eve on the soap. </p> <p>“One of the kindest people I have ever worked with. What an amazing life he lived. He will be missed. He made the world a better place.”</p> <p>Fellow veteran soap star Nancy Lee Grahn, who plays Alexis on <em>General Hospital</em> tweeted: “My deepest condolences to Drake Hogestyn’s family, friends and fans. What a lovely, lovely gracious man.”</p> <p><em>Image: SplashNews.com/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p> <p> </p>

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Another Channel 7 star quits in AFL shake-up

<p>Just last month Kane Cornes confirmed his move from the Nine Network to Channel 7 for the 2025 season, with colleague and veteran journalist Caroline Wilson doing the same. </p> <p>Now it has emerged that Channel 7 and Triple M commentator Luke Darcy has reportedly decided to walk away from the media industry all together, in the latest AFL shake-up. </p> <p>Darcy, a former ruckman who played 226 games with the Western Bulldogs, joined the media industry in 2007. He was initially with Network Ten before he moved to Channel 7 in 2011 and has since filled a variety of hosting and commentary roles. </p> <p>He also had a long-running breakfast show on Triple M with Eddie McGuire before that ended in 2020.</p> <p>Darcy got attention for his interview during the 2013 Essendon peptide saga and his repetition of the phrase, “say that again”. </p> <p>Now, he is choosing to walk away from the media to focus on his family's varied business ventures, according to the <em>Herald Sun</em>. </p> <p>A few of their business interests include a wellness spa in Bali, pubs and venues in Victoria, as well as a podcast on leadership. </p> <p>The news comes following a series of controversies involving Darcy, who on April this  year, confronted Cornes during a live Triple M radio segment, labelling the former  Port Adelaide midfielder “more mean spirited and nasty to people than anyone in the history of our industry”.</p> <p>The two have since cleared the air, to some extent, with Cornes saying that just last week he had crossed paths with Darcy during a footy game, and Darcy happily passed him some milk for a cup of tea. </p> <p>Wilson was among those that defended Cornes and called Darcy out for being out of line.</p> <p>It is unclear whether the controversy had any impact on Darcy's decision to leave the industry. </p> <p>A few footy fans were having a field day with the news, with one writing on Reddit: “Thank f**k. Insufferable that guy." </p> <p>“Nice bloke probably. But he’s the only actual voice I can’t stand listening to,” added another.</p> <p>“To give some credit he does sound genuinely excited/passionate for the game in much of his commentary," one defended. </p> <p><em>Image: news.com.au</em></p>

TV

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Why one baby king penguin is Sea Life's new social media star

<p>A baby king penguin at Sea Life Melbourne has become the aquarium's newest celebrity for one massive reason: his size. </p> <p>Pesto the king penguin is just nine months old and 22.5 kilogram, which is already bigger than his parents. </p> <p>Photos of Pesto, who is just 90 centimetres tall, towering over his parents have gone viral online, with thousands of people shocked at the animal's whopping size. </p> <p>When Pesto was born, he broke the record of being the biggest chick ever born at Sea Life. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-Crh17SzVD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-Crh17SzVD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Herald Sun (@heraldsunphoto)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"I think he's always going to be a big boy," says Sea Life penguin keeper Michaela Smale. She said that once he fledges, "he will shrink and slim down a little but he's already significantly taller than his dad."</p> <p>Despite being less than a year old, adulthood is already on the horizon as Pesto has started losing some of his baby feathers, with swimming lessons from his dad likely to be starting soon.</p> <p>"Sometimes they become quite independent teenagers, so maybe he's ready for his bad boy phase," says Smale.</p> <p>"I hope he retains some of his quirky personality and hopefully we can follow his adventures as he becomes part of the colony."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p> <div class="" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"> <div id="adspot-mobile-mobile-3-above" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; vertical-align: baseline;"></div> </div>

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