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Harry and Meghan named "2023's biggest losers"

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been crowned "the biggest losers of 2023" by highly influential entertainment magazine The Hollywood Reporter. The publication released its annual list of winners and losers, with celebrities like Taylor Swift, Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig making the winners list. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex on the other hand topped this year's list of losers, which included Twitter/X/Elon Musk, and the streaming series Yellowstone. The publication wrote that this year's list reflected "some of the industry’s biggest success stories — and most embarrassing missteps." Royal commentator Victoria Arbiter said that this is a huge blow for the royal couple, as The Hollywood Reporter is considered an "industry bible that people pay attention to". "It is humiliating in Meghan's home town and they refer to the couple's - and I quote this - 'whiney documentary', that 'whiney biography' and the horrible South Park episode," she said in an interview with Nine's Today. Despite being crowned this year's biggest losers, Arbiter said that the couple are looking forward to a better year ahead. "It is time to leave the royal family behind and really establish what it is they want to do and make positive steps forward if they plan to be successful in 2024," she said. "We've been promised a number of different things via rumours over the past year, with talk of Meghan's website The TIG relaunching and she was going to launch a lifestyle brand similar to Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop. "Netflix paid $3 million pounds for rights to a book Harry and Meghan said they would turn into a rom-com, however we haven't had further development on those plans." The royal commentator added that Harry and Meghan will need to build consumer trust and avoid "negative, scandalous headlines that follow them everywhere", as they approach the new year. "Hollywood doesn't do well with negativity," she said. Check out the full list <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/hollywood-winners-losers-2023-1235712279/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Image: Getty

90-year-old grandma's secrets, regrets and brutal "advice"

An amazingly sprightly 90-year-old grandmother has appeared on TikTok to share her deepest regrets in life, leaving viewers both amused and contemplative with her surprising take on being a nonagenarian. The video, which has garnered a whopping 70,000 views, features the wise words of wisdom from a woman who has seen it all, or at least enough to make her wish she hadn't seen quite so much. The nanna, who spilled the beans to her inquisitive granddaughter <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@racheljdillon?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rachel Dillon</a> – an online fitness coach – began by revealing what she wishes she did less of in her life. "Probably less of nothing," she admits. "I mean I never worked after I was married or anything like that. I wish I had probably done more mixing with people with that. More socialising." It's then that the truth bombs really start to drop. When Rachel asks, "Do you have any regrets", a cloud of laughter fills the room, before the answer comes. "Yes, I do regret marrying too young," she says emphatically. "I met my husband when I was 13 and he was 15. We got married at 17 and 19. I met him at the library. He used to ride me up on the bicycle when I was going to the library." Then, when asked about the secret to turning 90, Rachel's grandma confesses not only that there isn't one, but that she regrets having made it this far at all. "I didn't really want to get to 90," she declares with the nonchalance of someone choosing between tea and coffee. "I've had enough. I've had all I wanted out of the world. I am quite happy to go and meet my little puppy dog waiting there for me." When asked about her secret to looking so young, Rachel's grandma almost brushes the question aside, laying the blame simply in the quality of her genes for having "always been a fox", according to Rachel. The final question, and the final brutally honest response – which may have made Rachel regret asking about regrets – was simply: "Do you have any advice for us?" "Oh God no," comes the world-weary answer. "Not the way the world's going. No, I'm just glad I'll be gone. I don't want to be part of anything that I can see going on." TikTok users were quick to commend the grandmother, not just for her unexpected revelations but also for her timeless beauty. "She looks absolutely amazing," gushed one admirer, proving that age is just a number – albeit one that sometimes takes us by surprise. In the end, this nonagenarian nanna has become an unexpected sensation, leaving us all to ponder life's mysteries, library love stories, and the prospect of meeting puppy dogs in the great beyond. If her story has taught us anything, it's that life is unpredictable, love can blossom in the unlikeliest of places (like a library), and sometimes it's OK to regret that hasty decision to say "I do" before you even knew how to do your taxes. <div class="post_body_wrapper" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 8px 0px 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; caret-color: #323338; color: #323338; font-family: Figtree, Roboto, 'Noto Sans Hebrew', 'Noto Kufi Arabic', 'Noto Sans JP', sans-serif;"> <div class="post-body-container" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> <div class="post-body-renderer-component post_body" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: top; position: relative; transition: max-height 0.14s ease 0s; overflow: hidden; color: var(--primary-text-color); max-height: none;"> <div class="post-body-content" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 630px; overflow: auto hidden;"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 15px 15px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; position: relative; overflow: auto; color: var(--primary-text-color); font-family: var(--font-family); line-height: 1.5; word-break: break-word;"> <div class="embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 600px; max-width: 100%; outline: none !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7311465610821651720&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40racheljdillon%2Fvideo%2F7311465610821651720&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign-sg.tiktokcdn.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-alisg-p-0037%2Fo49EYZFdsEDJhfBAiE2gfGE8l3IAR2qBQx14iB%3Fx-expires%3D1702681200%26x-signature%3DL%252FvO6dLXwqFOi09XENAbVmG4tgs%253D&key=5b465a7e134d4f09b4e6901220de11f0&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div> <div> <div> <div>Images: TikTok / @racheljdillon</div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Retirement Life

Tiny chihuahua saves 90-year-old woman with heroic act

In the world of unlikely heroes, step aside Batman, move over Superman, because Minnie the Chihuahua cross is here to steal the spotlight. This petite pooch from Kingston, in the South Australia's southeast, has recently been showered with praise for her unexpected, life-saving antics. Picture this: Minnie, a little dog with a heart as big as her bark, not particularly keen on hugs, found herself in a situation that required more than just a wag of her tail. On that fateful Friday, December 1, Minnie noticed that her 90-year-old owner, Joyce Gibbs, was in a bit of a pickle – struggling to catch a breath. Now, most dogs might just tilt their heads in confusion (you can picture it) or fetch a chew toy, but not Minnie. Untrained in any form of medical assistance, Minnie decided to take matters into her own paws. Whether by sheer luck or by innate instinct, the canine prodigy leaped onto Joyce’s lap and – brace yourselves – pressed the medical alert device hanging around her neck. Yes, you heard that right; she hit the SOS button, sending out a message that would make any emergency service scramble into action. Lyn Gibbs, Joyce’s daughter, expressed her astonishment, “Minnie never jumps up in that chair when mum is in it..." she <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/chihuahua-praised-for-saving-90-year-old-south-australian-owner-struggling-to-breathe-c-12821344" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told 7News</a>. "Minnie knew she needed help, so she jumped up, trying to help her.” A stroke of genius? An incredibly lucky accident? Either way, Minnie became the the hero of the moment, saving the day like a furry little Avenger. As Joyce found herself in the hospital grappling with Rhinovirus, Minnie continued to be her unwavering companion. Doctors predicted a three-week recovery period, but after only four days, Joyce was back home, thanks to the vigilant care of her four-legged saviour. Lyn couldn’t help but gush about Minnie’s dedication, “Minnie’s been so good from the day I got her... she’s the best dog... she doesn’t leave her side.” Move over Florence Nightingale; we’ve got Minnie, the dedicated dog nurse, taking care of business. This heartwarming tale isn’t just about Minnie’s heroics; it’s a reminder of the importance of those pesky but life-saving medical alert devices. As Lyn says: “The medical alert is just so important for old people... a lot of them won’t wear them. They put them on the cupboard or on the table, but you really need them at all times, especially in the shower.” So, take heed: wear your devices and maybe, just maybe, you'll have a four-legged hero by your side, ready to leap into action when you least expect it. In a world where a Chihuahua can be the difference between a close call and catastrophe, we salute you, Minnie, for proving that heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Images: 7News

Caring

7 things you never knew about MAS*H

Did you know M*A*S*H ran more than three times longer than the actual Korean War? It may have graced our screens for 11 years, but you might not know all there is to know about the classic TV series, M*A*S*H. <ol> <li>No one wanted a laugh track – Despite pleas from the show’s producers, the network (CBS) went ahead and added in canned laughter. You might have noticed the laugh track growing quieter and quieter as the years progressed, and in the UK, the laugh track was removed entirely.</li> <li>CBS banned an “unpatriotic” episode – An idea for an episode was shot down by the network for being “unpatriotic”. It involved soldiers standing outside in the freezing cold to make themselves sick enough to be sent home – a tactic actually used during the war.</li> <li>The writers got back at complaining cast members – If ever an actor complained about their script (or asked for changes), the writing team would change the script to make it “parka weather”, making the cast swelter in jackets through days in excess of 32°C on their Florida film set.</li> <li>Patients were named after sports teams – After running out of names for patients visiting the hospital, the writers turned to baseball teams. In season six, four Marines are named after California Angels infielders, while in season seven, they named patients after the 1978 Los Angeles Dodgers.</li> <li>M*A*S*H hosted some big-name stars – Guest appearances on the show include Ron Howard, Leslie Nielsen, Patrick Swayze, Laurence Fishburne and Rita Wilson.</li> <li>The series finale broke records – The two-and-a-half-hour 1983 series finale, “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen,” was watched by a staggering 121.6 million people in the US alone – back then, that was 77 per cent of households with TV sets. It remains the most-watched episode of a TV show in US history.</li> <li>The time capsule didn’t stay buried long – In the series’ second-last episode, the M*A*S*H gang bury a time capsule. When the show wrapped up, the land used as the show’s set was sold, and a construction worker found the capsule just months later. After getting in contact with Alan Alda to return it, Alda told the worker he could keep it.</li> </ol> Image credits: Getty Images

"Finally!": 2023’s Sexiest Man Alive crowned

Patrick Dempsey has been named People’s Sexiest Man Alive for 2023! The 57-year-old actor known for his role as Derek "McDreamy" Shepherd on Grey's Anatomy snagged the title from last year's winner, Marvel heart-throb Chris Evans. In his interview with the publication, the actor said that he will use his new-found status to promote “something positive”. “I’m glad it’s happening at this point in my life,” he said. “It’s nice to have the recognition, and certainly my ego takes a little bump, but it gives me the platform to use it for something positive.” When asked about his reaction to finding out he was 2023's Sexiest Man Alive the actor joked that it was a long-time coming. “I was completely shocked, and then I started laughing, like, this is a joke, right? I’ve always been the bridesmaid!” he joked. “I’d completely forgotten about it and never even contemplated being in this position. So my ego is good.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Introducing PEOPLE’s 2023 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SexiestManAlive?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SexiestManAlive</a>, Patrick Dempsey. 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/4eYnCAG1Zr">https://t.co/4eYnCAG1Zr</a> <a href="https://t.co/5V0xVblnaE">pic.twitter.com/5V0xVblnaE</a> — People (@people) <a href="https://twitter.com/people/status/1722114648638394482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2023</a></blockquote> The father-of-three also joked about how his children, Talula, 21, and 16-year-old twins Sullivan and Darby, will react to this news. “They’re just going to make fun of me and pick on me and figure out every reason why I shouldn’t be,” he said. “Which is good, they keep me young.” Funnily enough, his newfound status was also met with confusion, mostly from the younger generation who have no idea who he is. “Who the hell is Patrick Dempsey?” one confused Gen Zer wrote. “You all are making up new people every day; who is Patrick Dempsey?” another commented. This left many Millennials feeling old. “People ... not knowing who Patrick Dempsey is making me feel like a grandma. What do you mean you didn’t grow up watching Grey’s Anatomy, and you weren’t obsessed with Derek Sheppard since you were 10,” one commented. “There is an is actual difference in being 26 vs. being 23! Because I am seeing 23 yr olds not know who Patrick Dempsey is,” another added. And not everyone who is a Millennial agreed with People's choice. "I mean… yes back in the day. But seriously? How is it not someone who is hot right now? I haven’t even seen/heard him mentioned in years," commented one person. Is it 2005?” another wrote. “Um, he is so 2007,” a third commented. Regardless, Dempsey has aged like fine wine and many have said it's about time. “Finally! Ain’t nobody under this post showed me a white man finer!" Image: People Magazine/ X

Beauty & Style

Popular 90s supermodel makes iconic return to runway

Vendela Kirsebom, a Norwegian-Swedish model, has made a stunning return to the runway almost three decades after she rose to fame. Kirsebom became the face of Elizabeth Ardern, appeared in seven editions of Sports Illustrated, and graced the cover of Vogue during the peak of her career. In recent years she chose to take a break from the spotlight, until now. The 56-year-old returned to the catwalk for Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Runway Show in Miami this week. She oozes confidence as strutted the runway in two different swimmers including a white one-piece with a plunging neckline, and a purple bikini set, both from her own brand Vendela Wear. Following the show, Kirsebom took to Instagram to thank her followers for their support. "Thank you for all the cheers, love and nice feedback,” she captioned the photo with the hashtag "embrace your beauty”. Her 119,000 followers flooded the comment section with a string of adoring responses. “Words can't describe how proud I am of you. Time stood still when you were on the stage,” wrote her husband, Norwegian TV celebrity Petter Pilgaard. “You are a fantastic role model for us adult ladies. You deserve a lot of happiness with your nice new collection,” wrote one fan. “You’re a superstar, you look incredibly great,” commented another. “Back on the catwalk, you look great,” wrote a third. Aside from her impressive modelling career, Kirsebom was also an actress who appeared in several movies including Batman and Robin in 1997, and The Parent Trap starring Lindsay Lohan in 1998. In 1996 she was rumoured to have dated the most eligible bachelor of that time, George Clooney, after the pair were spotted together multiple times. Images: Getty Images

Beauty & Style

Grant and Chezzi's dramatic 90s transformation

Grant and Chezzi Denyer have shocked fans with a retro transformation. The TV personality and his wife dressed in their 1990s best as the family attended a themed dress-up party on the Gold Coast with their friends and family. In attendance were the couple’s three daughters Sailor, 10, Scout, six, and Sunday, two. “90’s Party to celebrate Courtney’s 40th & Warren’s 50th birthday,” Chezzi captioned a post. “Incredible fun with all the Denyer family reliving one of my favourite decades." <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/p/CsmgRbsSEZb/?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/p/CsmgRbsSEZb/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by ｃｈｅｚｚｉｄｅｎｙｅｒ (@chezzidenyer)</a> </div> </blockquote> “Teletubbies, Britney, Mrs Doubtfire, Pulp Fiction, Guns n Roses, The Nanny, Ab Fab, Men in Black, Baywatch, Shania Twain - so many great costumes." Grant chose to dress up in a Guns n Roses ensemble to pay tribute to the band's frontman Axl Rose, as he donned a blonde wig and bandana, and the appropriate amount of clashing patterns. Chezzi paid homage to Uma Thurman's character Mia Wallace in the 90s cult film Pulp Fiction, while the couple's oldest daughter Sailor was dressed as the Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland. Scout was seen in a sparkly dress and boots, holding onto a giant lollipop as Sunday gazed down at her sister with the lolly. “Great costumes. Look at Sunday’s focus on the lollipop,” one fan wrote. “Your costumes are perfect. The hairdos are fantastic. What great ideas you had. Love all the colour. Bet you had tons of fun 😍,” said a second. Chezzi shared a series of snaps from the function, with a wholesome group photo showing off the best costumes from memorable pop culture moments of the 1990s. One person commented on the group photo, "Wow, you people know how to dress for a party!" Image credits: Instagram

Family & Pets

90-year-old-with chronic leukaemia skydives for charity

A thrill-seeking 90-year-old has celebrated her birthday - in what some would call an unconventional manner for her age - by skydiving, and raising £5,000 for a homeless charity in the process. Shirley Robinson, from Long Clawson in Leicestershire, jumped out of a plane at 14,000ft for the fundraiser at Skydive Langar in Nottinghamshire. Shirley, who was diagnosed with chronic leukaemia in 2022, raised funds for Crisis, a charity that provides help and support for homeless people. She told BBC News, “It's just wonderful how generous people have been. It's lovely.” Footage of her dive saw Shirley styled in a bright blue jumpsuit as she was cheered on by family and friends before getting on the plane. She smiled and waved at the camera as she was strapped to her skydiving instructor. <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/reel/CsZGxykN0PN/?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/CsZGxykN0PN/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Skydive Langar (@skydivelangar)</a> </div> </blockquote> After Shirley’s adrenaline packed skydive, she landed safely in a field and can be heard in the video exclaiming, “That was wonderful.” When asked about her favourite part of the experience, she responded, “That was lovely, going through the clouds.” She confessed afterwards that the free fall was a “bit breathtaking” but she “loved it” before thanking her instructor for looking after her. Shirley returned to a hero’s welcome with her beaming friends and family congratulating her. A spokesperson for the charity said, “We want to say an enormous thank you to Shirley for the incredible amount of money she has raised. “Shirley's donation will provide vital support for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We're so grateful.” Image credit: Instagram

Retirement Life

"With Jock in our hearts": Channel 10's big MasterChef announcement

The 15th season of Masterchef Australia will be broadcast as planned, Channel 10 have confirmed. The season, otherwise known as Masterchef: Secrets & Surprises, was initially sent into limbo when fan-favourite host and <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/shattered-hearts-culinary-world-mourns-tragic-death-of-jock-zonfrillo">chef Jock Zonfrilllo passed away unexpectedly</a>, reportedly in a Melbourne hotel room. But now, the network behind the hit cooking competition series have confirmed that after a one-week delay and <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/huge-broadcast-blunder-sees-new-footage-of-late-jock-zonfrillo-mistakenly-aired">an unfortunate streaming blunder</a>, Masterchef will return to screens across Australia, and likely the rest of the world in the coming months. The network made the announcement through social media, sharing a statement that assured audiences the decision had come with “the full support of Jock Zonfrillo’s family”. “Masterchef Australia Judge Jock Zonfrillo took great pride in challenging and coaching the contestants and of course inspiring a nation of home cooks,” it continued, before going on to note that they would be keeping the late Zonfrillo close to their hearts over the course of the upcoming season, and beyond. It concluded with the news that “the show will honour Jock by reflecting on his personal and professional life in a celebration of his incredible achievements”, with some fans declaring in the comments that this was the “best way to honour his work”. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> The new season of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MasterChefAU?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MasterChefAU</a> begins 7.30pm Sunday on 10 and 10 Play. <a href="https://t.co/CnENu2UpUO">pic.twitter.com/CnENu2UpUO</a> — Channel 10 (@Channel10AU) <a href="https://twitter.com/Channel10AU/status/1653667970303033344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote> The official Masterchef Australia account shared the same statement, and was met with a similar response from supporters of the show. “I’ll look forward to watching this with a whisky in hand, give it up for Jock,” one wrote. “I look forward to watching it. I think that viewing Jock’s final season together with all other MasterChef fans will be a fitting way for us to remember what an amazing person, chef and inspirational mentor he was,” another said. “A difficult decision,” one noted, “however the opportunity to see the great chef live on and do what it seemed he loved and was so very good at, making people love cooking.” The idea that it could not have been an easy decision to reach for one shared by a large portion of fans, with another likely speaking for all of them when they wrote that “this must have been a really emotionally tough decision for Jock's family. I think I'll need a box of tissues for this one.” “As long as Jock's family are OK with this, we can respect Channel 10's decision,” another decided. “I personally will find it very hard to watch the series in light of what's happened, but I'll think of it as a wonderful tribute to a fantastic man and beautiful soul.” Meanwhile, one fan had another idea for honouring the late chef, asking Masterchef Australia, “would you consider changing the name of the trophy the winner gets to the Jock Zonfrillo trophy?” Images: Twitter

Second MAS*H star to pass away in just one month

Actress Eileen Saki, best known for her role as bar owner Rosie in the hit series M*A*S*H has died. The 79-year-old had been fighting pancreatic cancer, and “passed away peacefully in Los Angeles” on May 1, according to PEOPLE. Eileen’s <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/m-a-s-h-star-passes-away" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fellow M*A*S*H star, Judy Farrell, had died</a> just one month prior on April 2. Eileen’s manager, Camilla Fluxman Pines confirmed the devastating news in a statement to the publication, writing that “she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in January. "She was a lung cancer survivor in 2004.She got a second chance at auditioning and working in the industry that she loved so much - she shot a couple big commercials shortly before her diagnosis. "She was often recognized by face or even just voice by people who knew they knew her 'from somewhere' - and loved talking to young actors about the journey." Suki’s former co-star Jeff Maxwell, who brought the character Igor Straminsky to life on M*A*S*H, honoured his late friend with a social media post, sharing the news of her passing on the official page for his MASH Matters podcast. “Our sweet Eileen. Our sassy Rosie,” he wrote, before going on to extend his appreciation - as well as that of her husband, Bob - to Eileen’s devoted fans and followers who offered her their love and their support in her final days, before promising to share more on Eileen as the day went on, and encouraging others to do the same. “Our sweet, sweet Eileen. How we love you,” he concluded. “How we will miss you.” <iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmashmatterspodcast%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0LmjyFaQF6dHNoWfZKNqRpBEqzgyNKSsf41AZxkg9kjKCuSJaisowUawFowusyacyl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="719" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> True to his word, Jeff went on to post a few favourite Eileen moments, from her most recent work in advertisements, to time on screen with the likes of Mickey Rooney and Dom Deluise, and last - but certainly not least - as “a scene with a certain sassy bartender”. <iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmashmatterspodcast%2Fvideos%2F1531503437375801%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Saki had actually been the third actress to portray Rosie, having taken over from Frances Fong and Shizuko Hoshi for her eight episode stint. In the end, she was the final and longest-running owner of Rosie’s Bar, and remains dear to her co-workers and fans for it. “You will forever be in our hearts!” one commented, in a sentiment shared by many. “Sorry to hear of her passing. Great memories at Rosie’s,” said another. “She was the best Rosie of them all and such a great actress,” one declared. “So sorry to hear she passed on.” “One of the finest roles ever played,” someone agreed, before requesting that she “say hello to Col. Blake, Trapper, Major Burns”. And as one said on behalf of them all, “you fought the great fight, Eileen. Now, rest easy, for your burdens and struggles are behind you. Love and strength to the entire family during these hard days ahead.” Images: Facebook

Caring

MAS*H star passes away

M*A*S*H star Judy Farrell has passed away at the age of 84, her son has confirmed to TNZ. The actress, who is best known around the world for her portrayal of Nurse Able, died in hospital nine days after suffering a stroke which left her unable to communicate. However, TNZ have reported that Judy was conscious still and able to squeeze the hands of her loved ones. While Judy’s son Michael - whom she shared with fellow M*A*S*H actor Mike Farrell - has not yet spoken publicly about her mother’s passing, her former co-star Loretta Swift spoke to Fox News Digital about losing “family”. “Judy was a most beautiful woman - inside and out. We grew up together," the actress behind Major Margaret ‘Hot Lips’ Houlihan said. "She was family. This has been a painful loss, but we will always have the beauty of her memory. “Rest in peace, Nurse Able." Farrell starred as Nurse Able in eight episodes of the hit series, and was the only actress to ever be credited as the character. Initially, Nurse Able was a minor role - often just a placeholder for the instances where a background nurse had a line - and from Seasons 2-11 she was played by no fewer than 11 different people. By the fourth season, the role progressed so that she became involved in the show’s plot. It was in the sixth season that Judy Farrell secured her place in television history as Nurse Able, taking over for the character’s final appearances on screen in Seasons 6-11 for eight episodes. During her time on the show, Farrell starred alongside the likes of Loretta Swift, Alan Alda, and ex-husband Mike Farrell. The latter joined M*A*S*H’s cast in 1975, replacing Wayne Rogers, and remained until the 1983 finale. The couple had married in 1963, but went on to divorce 20 years later, in the same year that M*A*S*H bid farewell to its audience. Their split was reportedly amicable, with the two going on to remarry and co-parent their children, son Michael and daughter Erin. And as Farrell’s loved ones mourn her loss, fans and followers of the actress have taken to social media to share their grief, and to honour her work, sharing some of their fondest memories of her time bringing their beloved Nurse Able to life. “RIP Nurse Able. I was so thrilled to have known you, Judy Farrell,” wrote comedian Murray Valeriano. “Condolences to the Farrell and MASH families,” one fan said. And for another, it came as a tragic opportunity to share a clip of Farrell’s work, showcasing the actress alongside some of her former co-stars, with Classic MASH writing “Sad news today.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Sad news today. Judy Farrell has passed away. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClassicMASH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClassicMASH</a> <a href="https://t.co/hCfSpL7c0W">pic.twitter.com/hCfSpL7c0W</a> — Classic MASH 🍸 (@ClassicMASH) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClassicMASH/status/1643275688017903616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2023</a></blockquote> Images: Getty, Twitter, MASHFandom.com

Iconic '90s supermodel dies at age 56

German supermodel Tatjana Patitz, who appeared in George Michael’s Freedom 90 video, has died at 56 years of age. A family representative confirmed that her cause of death was breast cancer. Patitz started her career in 1983, after becoming a finalist in the Elite Model Look contest and is considered one of the "original supermodels". She has been featured on the cover of Vogue six times. Vogue shared a <a href="https://www.vogue.com/article/obituary-tatjana-patitz" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tribute</a> to the supermodel, stating that she was "the quietest and perhaps the most intense of the original supermodels". In the tribute, Anna Wintour, the global editorial director of Vogue said that “Tatjana was always the European symbol of chic, like Romy Schneider-meets-Monica Vitti". "She was far less visible than her peers—more mysterious, more grown-up, more unattainable—and that had its own appeal," she added, describing Patitz's unique qualities. At the height of her career Patitz, alongside other models like Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, and Christy Turlington, starred in the Freedom 90 video. They were recruited after George Michael saw the British Vogue’s January 1990 supermodels cover. Peter Lindbergh, labelled as "the fairy godfather of Patitz’s career," was the photographer who captured Patitz's natural beauty in the 1988 photograph White Shirts: Six Supermodels, Malibu. The Peter Lindbergh Foundation posted a tribute to the supermodel in a Tweet. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tatjana Patitz, a long-time friend of Peter’s. We would like to salute Tatjana’s kindness, inner beauty and outstanding intelligence. Our thoughts go to her loved ones and particularly Jonah. She will be immensely missed. <a href="https://t.co/VGjAhLyC2C">https://t.co/VGjAhLyC2C</a> — Peter Lindbergh Foundation (@peterlindbergh) <a href="https://twitter.com/peterlindbergh/status/1613208506697486338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2023</a></blockquote> The tribute read: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tatjana Patitz, a long-time friend of Peter’s. We would like to salute Tatjana’s kindness, inner beauty and outstanding intelligence. Our thoughts go to her loved ones and particularly Jonah. She will be immensely missed." Tatjana Patitz is survived by her son, Jonah, who has followed in his mother’s footsteps and is now a model. Image: Instagram

News

Sesame Street legend dies at age 90

One of the original stars of Sesame Street has passed away at the 90. Bob McGrath was one of just four cast members hired for the pilot of the children's TV show when it aired in 1969, and continued with the show for 47 seasons. News of the actor's death was shared by the family on his official Facebook page. "Our father Bob McGrath, passed away today. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family," said the post. After appearing on over 150 episodes of the show. numerous specials, direct to video movies, and two feature films, McGrath finally stopped acting on Sesame Street with his last episode entitled Having a Ball in 2017. McGrath conducted lessons for children through his puppeteering and also wrote original sons for the production including People in Your Neighbourhood, Sing a Song, If You're Happy And You Know It and the Sesame Street theme song. McGrath played a character named Bob alongside Matt Robinson as Gordon, Loretta Long as Susan and Will Lee as Mr. Hooper when he began on the show. "We've always looked at children as just short people," McGrath told the<a href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/obituaries/2022/12/4/23493160/bob-mcgrath-dead-sesame-street-obituary-cast" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener"> Sun-Times</a> in 1998. "We've never talked down to them." "The kids we were meant to reach, I think we've reached," McGrath added. "They've grown up. They're in their 30s now. They have kids of their own, our Sesame Seeds, and they come up to me and say, 'Thank you very much. It made a major difference in our lives."' Image credits: Getty Images

Caring

6 tips to help your dog live longer

Our furry friends are more like family than just mates, and it pains us terribly when they age – sometimes ungracefully. Tim Norris, dog healer and founder of canine myofunctional therapy (canine massage), acupuncture and dog rehabilitation service <a href="http://bothendsofthelead.com.au/">Both Ends of The Lead</a>, walks us through how to care for an older dog to guarantee them a long and pain-free life. 1. Do not overfeed your dog This can lead to heart disease and joint problems. Feed your dog a nutritious diet to keep them at a healthy weight. These are two ways you can do a ‘self-check’ on your dog to see if they are not overweight. <ol> <li>Stand so that you have a view of your dog from above or over them. You should see there is an obvious waistline just behind their ribcage.</li> <li>If you are unsure, run your hands lightly down the side of your dog’s body and you should be able to feel their ribs.</li> </ol> If you are still not sure if you are overfeeding your dog after doing the checks, then you should speak to your vet and get their advice. There are many variables that determine how much to feed your dog. If you feed them a kibble diet, then the recommended amount to feed is usually stated on the packaging. If you have bought your food from your local vet, then they will normally recommend how much to feed specifically for your dog. We are now starting to see more people feeding a natural raw diet to their dog. If you do decide this suits your dog better, it’s recommended you seek out a certified animal nutritionist to guide you on how much to feed and also how to balance the meals appropriately for your dog specifically. As your dog ages and becomes less active (just like people), it’s likely you will need to feed them a little less, otherwise you risk a range of joint issues like arthritis through overfeeding. If you have a dog that appears underweight, then it is advisable to check with your vet to see if there are any conditions your dog may have that is stopping them from putting on weight. Most pet food brands have a senior range, which will usually include more omega 3, 6 and 9 for bones and joints. Try these ideas on <a href="http://www.readersdigest.com.au/pets/how-care-your-ageing-pet">how to care for an ageing pet</a>. 2. Don't exercise your dog too much or too little Many breeds of dogs are classed as a senior dog once they reach seven years of age, so it’s important to adapt the way you exercise them to minimise the impact on their joints and help them age more safely. High intensity chase games like throwing a ball can increase the risk of injury and joint problems like arthritis for senior dogs. The jumping, twisting and turning can put a great deal of excess strain on an older dog’s body and although many senior dogs will still enjoy chasing a ball, you should consider if this really is the most appropriate and safest way to exercise a senior dog. 3. If your dog is old, don't throw a ball too much If you do still throw a ball for your senior dog, it’s good to spend at least five minutes warming up their muscles first. This can help reduce the risk of an injury for them. You can do this by just letting them walk at their normal speed until they are warmed up and then throw the ball along the ground, so there is no jumping or twisting for them. If you ever see your dog uncomfortable or slowing down when chasing the ball, this is a good time to stop. If they are sore after chasing a ball or stiff the next day, then it would be wise to stop throwing the ball for them and find a different way to exercise them. 4. Make sure your home is safe If you have floor surfaces like floorboards, vinyl or tiles, these can be very slippery for an older dog, making it easy for them to fall and injure themselves. Placing non-slip surfaces down in areas that your dog uses heavily can help make the floors safer for your dog. 5. Use a step if your dog jumps on and off furniture If your senior dog likes to jump up on the couch or bed, think about having a halfway step so they can get up and down easier. This will help to reduce the impact on their joints and the injury risk. I have treated many dogs who have damaged muscles and ligaments jumping off a bed or couch. They are very avoidable injuries, so using a halfway step or not letting them up on the furniture would certainly have helped in these situations. I have recently helped a 15-year-old poodle called Cino who has arthritis and damaged his leg jumping off the couch. Cino responded very well to acupuncture and massage. I also showed his owner how to massage Cino’s muscles and use a heat pack for his arthritis. The good news is that Cino is no longer in pain and his owner now has a ramp to help him get up and down off the couch. Another dog I worked with recently was a 10-year-old English staffy called Alfie. He tore knee ligaments jumping off the bed and I was able to help rehabilitate Alfie without the need for surgery. A crucial part of Alfie’s rehabilitation was the personalised home care programme I developed for Alfie’s owners to follow. This helped Alfie recover faster and get back to running the house again... but no more jumping off the bed! The personalised face-to-face or online home care programmes are an important service I offer. Having the owner actively involved in the process of helping rehabilitate their dog can make a huge difference to the outcome... just like it did for Alfie. 6. A calm, relaxed home can help your dog feel less stressed Stress can affect our dogs in very similar ways to how it affects us. We can all recognise the impact stress can have on our own health. Our dogs are like sponges and will often show signs of stress when they see that their owners are stressed. Many dog owners testify that their dogs recognise and respond to their emotional states. So, doing all we can to minimise our own levels of stress is a great starting point to help keep our dogs calm and healthier. Being mindful of what your dog is exposed to in the home environment is important. Be aware of what the triggers are that stress your dog and then do all you can to minimise the impact of them if they are exposed to them. The key to a relaxed home environment for your dog always starts with a relaxed dog owner. This article first appeared in <a href="http://www.readersdigest.com.au/pets/6-tips-help-your-dog-live-longer?items_per_page=All">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestsubscribe?utm_source=readersdigest&utm_campaign=RDSUB&utm_medium=display&keycode=WRA85S">here’s our best subscription offer</a>. Image: Getty Images

Family & Pets

Why Chumbawumba’s hit 90s song still resonates

The man behind one of the most iconic songs of the 1990s has opened up about the song’s longevity. Speaking with <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/today/chumbawumba-tubthumping-90s-hit-song-still-popular-with-younger-generations-dunstan-bruce/4600e40a-a664-46af-9438-69bbd008e8af">Today Extra</a>, Dunstan Bruce, the lead singer of British rock band Chumbawumba, has shared how much the world embraced the message of Tubthumping when it was released 25 years ago. "I'm really proud of the life span that song has had and the fact that it has this universal message," Bruce said. "It seems to transcend time and that's a wonderful feeling that you can become part of popular culture in a way that is like that and that it has such a life." With the iconic music video being set in an unassuming local pub, Bruce said the song is about resilience and people being able to fight against all the things that are going wrong in their lives and "that there's always a way to find solidarity with other people". "It's about community and sharing those moments with other people," he said. "So it's like it was inspired by just going to the local pub and seeing people who have had a really hard week at work but would be out and have a really good time and make the best out of a bad situation I suppose." The 59-year-old musician said following the success of Tubthumping, the band wanted to use their newfound fame to “try and change the world” for the better. Which is why, 25 years after the song’s release, Dunstan is involved in a new documentary titled I Get Knocked Down which addresses those messages he wanted to share when he was younger. "It asks questions about what you do when you enter middle age and can you still have an influence on the world and where do you fit into the world as you get older," he said. "A lot of the time we come to feel invisible in the world and this sounds really cheesy - but it did help me get back up again in a way." Image credits: Getty Images

Music

MAS*H, 50 years on: the anti-war sitcom was a product of its time, yet its themes are timeless

MASH, stylised as M*A*S*H, is the story of a rag-tag bunch of medical misfits of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital thrown together against the horrors of the Korean war in the 1950s. The series endured for 11 seasons, from September 1972 to the final episode in 1983. Originally it was centred on two army surgeons, the wisecracking but empathetic Benjamin “Hawkeye” Pierce, played by Alan Alda, and the deadpan “Trapper” John McIntyre, played by Wayne Rogers. The show had an ensemble cast and different episodes would often focus on one of the featured characters. There was the meek Corporal “Radar” O'Reilly, cross-dressing Corporal Klinger, the easy-going Lieutenant Colonel Henry Blake and pious Father Mulcahy. The antagonists, conniving Major Frank Burns and Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan, were foils for Hawkeye and Trapper but occasionally were central characters in some episodes too. <div data-id="17"> </div> Based on the 1970 movie, itself based on a novel, MASH was designed as a “black comedy” set during the Korean War. It was really a thinly veiled critique of the war in Vietnam raging at the time. The creators of the show knew they wouldn’t get away with making a Vietnam war comedy. Uncensored news broadcasts showing the viciousness of Vietnam were transmitted straight to the American public who were, by now, growing jaded of the increasingly brutal war. Setting the series 20 years earlier allowed the creators to mask their criticisms behind a historical perspective – but most viewers realised the true context. <h2>An anti-war sitcom</h2> What started as a criticism of the Vietnam war soon evolved into one for all wars. In many episodes, audiences would be reminded of the horrors of lives lost in the fighting on the line, and the angst and trauma faced by those behind the line. It didn’t matter which war this was, MASH was saying all wars are the same, full of shattered lives. Cloaking this message in comedy was the way the creators were able to make it palatable to a wide audience. The early seasons have a distinctive sitcom feel to them, mostly as a result of the series co-creators, Larry Gelbart and Gene Reynolds, who were from a comedy background. When both creatives left by the end of season five the show took a more dramatic turn. In particular, Alda became more involved in the writing and took it into a more dramatic direction, toning down the comedic elements. This was also reflected in the change of many of the secondary characters. The philandering, practical joker Trapper was replaced by the moral and professional BJ Hunnicutt, the snivelling Frank Burns by the pretentious Charles Winchester, the laconic Henry Blake with the officious Sherman Potter, and the complete absence of Radar after season eight. The voice of the series took on a noticeably Hawkeye focus. As the Vietnam war ended in 1975, the tone of the show also changed. It became less political and focused more on the dilemmas of the individual characters. The laugh track was toned down. But this did not make the show any less popular. Audiences responded strongly to the anarchic anti-authoritarianism of Hawkeye and Trapper/BJ. Almost all the characters are anti-war, reflecting the growing antagonism the American public was feeling towards the Vietnam war and war fatigue in general, post-Vietnam. Even Frank and Hot Lips, the most patriotic characters, sometimes questioned if the war was worth all the suffering and death. And the series reminded people the humour used was not meant to disrespect those fighting but as a coping mechanism of the trauma by those involved. <h2>A timeless classic</h2> That’s not to say there aren’t issues with the show when looked at with modern sensibilities. Contemporary audiences would find problems with some of the representations of characters and issues addressed in the series. Corporal Klinger would today be seen as contentious. His penchant for dressing in women’s clothes was not because he was trans or interested in drag, but because he was trying to get a “Section 8”, or mental health, discharge. Many of the female characters were also relegated to little more than two-dimensional romantic interests or background characters. The only woman who starred with a significant recurring role was “Hot Lips” Houlihan but, as the nickname implies, she was often the butt of sexualised humour. This has not stopped the show maintaining its popularity in the continual re-runs it gets on cable and streaming services. MASH was a product of its time, yet its themes on the absurdity of war are universal. It became more than a TV show: a shared cathartic experience for war-weary audiences. At its heart is the eclectic mix of dysfunctional characters who use humour to laugh in the face of adversity. This is what makes MASH a timeless classic. This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/m-a-s-h-50-years-on-the-anti-war-sitcom-was-a-product-of-its-time-yet-its-themes-are-timeless-190422" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Image: YouTube

“Very sad”: Prince Harry arrives 90 minutes too late

In the wake of the news of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, it has emerged that Prince Harry missed seeing his grandmother one last time by mere hours. The <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/queen-elizabeth-ii-dead-at-96" target="_blank" rel="noopener">96-year-old monarch died peacefully</a> in her Balmoral home after key royals such as Prince William, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward and Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, rushed to Scotland to be by her side. Prince Anne was already by her mother’s side, having attended an engagement in Balmoral earlier in the week. However, flight data obtained by the Daily Mail has shown that the Duke of Sussex was still airborne when the Queen passed at 6.30pm UK time, landing 15 minutes later and officially leaving the airport at 7pm. He reportedly arrived at the Balmoral estate at 7.52pm, appearing visibly upset as he was photographed while inside a black car. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Prince Harry seen with head in hands after the death of the Queen announced <a href="https://t.co/CoObKSwrUJ">https://t.co/CoObKSwrUJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hbpy86Ibn9">pic.twitter.com/Hbpy86Ibn9</a> — Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) <a href="https://twitter.com/MailOnline/status/1567952832569004034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote> Royal commentator and former British Royal Family Press Secretary Dickie Arbiter told Today that King Charles III and Queen Camilla would have arrived pretty quickly at the estate, given that they live “just down the road” at Birkhall. "The rest of the family would have headed towards Northolt Airport, just outside of London, boarded a plane to Aberdeen Airport, then an hour's drive from there," Arbiter said. "It was quite interesting and I find extraordinary that Prince Harry wasn't on the same aircraft, and making his own way there, and probably arrived, if indeed he has arrived, after the death of his grandmother, which, is very sad in the circumstances," he continued, minutes before it was confirmed Harry did not make it to Scotland in time. Royal commentator Chris Ship tweeted: “Very sad for Prince Harry that - despite being in the UK - he didn’t get to see his grandmother, The Queen, before she passed away. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Very sad for Prince Harry that - despite being in the UK - he didn’t get to see his grandmother, The Queen, before she passed away. They were very close and he spoke to her often despite his decision to leave the Royal Family.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/QueenElizabeth?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#QueenElizabeth</a> <a href="https://t.co/bGMavZ7vQQ">pic.twitter.com/bGMavZ7vQQ</a> — Chris Ship (@chrisshipitv) <a href="https://twitter.com/chrisshipitv/status/1567958419214143489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2022</a></blockquote> “They were very close and he spoke to her often despite his decision to leave the Royal Family.” Despite reportedly being just west of London when the Queen went under medical supervision, it is unclear why Harry didn’t travel with the other Royal family members, who landed in Aberdeen at 4pm, per the Daily Mail. The former royal was in London with his wife Meghan Markle - who is understood to have stayed there while he travelled to Scotland - for the WellChild Awards, where Harry was due to give a speech. But, they cancelled their appearance due to the news of the Queen’s ill health. The Sussexes have since paid tribute to the Queen, with their Archewell website turning black and the message, “In loving memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 1926-2022” appearing in the centre. Image: Getty Images

Family & Pets

Spain without the S: Man has tests positive to Covid, HIV and Monkeypox all at once

A 36-year-old Italian man has simultaneously tested positive to COVID, HIV and monkeypox making this a world first event. The triple co-infection was recorded after the man holidayed for a week in Spain. Nine days following his trip, he developed a fever, rash and as subsequent testing went on it was evident he was in for a wild ride. The man spent five days in Spain from June 16-20 and enjoyed his holiday to the fullest, seemingly engaging in unprotected sex with other men during that time. Upon returning to Italy, he developed a 39C fever, sore throat, fatigue and headache. The party-goer tested positive to COVID on July 2, and the same afternoon began to develop a rash on his left arm. On July 3 small, painful blisters appeared on his torso, lower limbs, face and other parts of the body. “On physical examination his body was dotted, including the palm of the right hand and the perianal region, with skin lesions in various stages of progression,” the report said. The blisters spread all over the body until July 5, evolving into umbilicated pustules, before he was moved to the emergency department and then to the Infectious Diseases unit at a hospital in Catania. This was when he tested positive to monkeypox. “Complete STI screening is recommended after a diagnosis of monkeypox,” the report said. The STI screening found he also tested positive for HIV, given this diagnosis was not the patient's first brush with an STI. Previous reports noted: “On admission, the patient reported being treated for syphilis in 2019.” “This case highlights how monkeypox and COVID symptoms may overlap, and corroborates how in case of co-infection, anamnestic collection and sexual habits are crucial to perform the correct diagnosis,” the report said. “As this is the only reported case of monkeypox virus, SARS-CoV-2 and HIV co-infection, there is still not enough evidence supporting that this combination may aggravate patient’s condition.” The patient was treated and discharged to home isolation on July 11 as his symptoms resolved. He returned for a checkup on July 19, still testing positive with monkeypox but with the lesions having slowly improved, he is now to begin HIV treatment. Image: Getty

Body

Inflation is 2022’s boogeyman. How can we address rising living costs, while helping bring it down?

An entire generation has never experienced life with high inflation. But that is set to change. Countries like Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and others are <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/06/inflation-stats-usa-and-world/">reporting rising inflation</a>. In New Zealand, inflation has climbed to its <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/129293267/annual-inflation-hits-73">highest rate in 32 years</a>. Our collective inexperience with the scourge of inflation, and how to solve it, could be a real problem. For those experiencing high inflation for the first time, it is helpful to understand just what economists and politicians are talking about. Inflation is a sustained increase in overall prices. Not everything goes up by the same amount but when people are having to pay more each week, month or year for the same basket of goods and services then that’s inflation. Inflation is harmful in many ways. It works like rust – slowly eating away at the value of your money. Inflation affects all of us. It doesn’t matter what the face value of your money is – what matters is the quantity of goods and services you can buy with it. The real value of money One easy way to understand inflation is to look at what you can buy for the money you have. Suppose at the start of the year your $100 note bought you 20 cups of coffee. However, inflation pushes coffee from $5 to $6 a cup. By the end of the year, your same $100 only buys you 16 cups of coffee. The face value of your money is the same but its real value (in terms of the number of coffees you can buy) has gone down. Your money is worth less now than a year ago. This rise in costs hurts wage earners who have limited opportunity to renegotiate their wages. Inflation also hurts those on fixed incomes such as beneficiaries and superannuitants who only receive periodic adjustments. Rising inflation hurts savers who find the real value of their savings going down if returns on savings don’t keep up with inflation – which they currently aren’t. Inflation can benefit borrowers who have the same debt at the end of the year but the value of that debt is lower in real terms. Providing there is at least some inflation adjustment to their income, borrowers have to sacrifice less to repay their debt. While this sounds good, it’s not. It encourages poor borrowing decisions and discourages savings. <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474465/original/file-20220718-495-2r9amx.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474465/original/file-20220718-495-2r9amx.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474465/original/file-20220718-495-2r9amx.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474465/original/file-20220718-495-2r9amx.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474465/original/file-20220718-495-2r9amx.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474465/original/file-20220718-495-2r9amx.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474465/original/file-20220718-495-2r9amx.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Young woman looking at a grocery receipt." /><figcaption>Inflation has risen to levels not seen for three decades. Consumers will feel the squeeze as their purchasing power drops. <a class="source" href="https://www.gettyimages.com.au/detail/photo/checking-receipt-royalty-free-image/691853536?adppopup=true">Getty Images</a></figcaption></figure> The all-encompassing impact of inflation In a progressive tax system, inflation hurts salary and wage earners who get pushed into higher tax brackets as they receive inflation adjustments to their pay. Inflation can also cause issues at a national level. If one country’s inflation rate is higher than their trading partners then its currency falls in value. In the early 1970s, the NZ dollar was worth almost US$1.50. Our higher inflation rates of the 70s and 80s saw it fall to around US$0.50 by the mid 80s. This drop in value limits what we can buy from overseas – things like life-saving drugs will become more expensive for us if we don’t get inflation down and others do. The causes of inflation can come from good intentions Inflation is too much money chasing too few goods. If central banks push more money into circulation, there is a real risk of inflation. A big increase in demand for goods from, for example, an increase in government spending can also trigger inflation. So can supply chain disruptions that reduce the goods available (meaning the same amount of money chasing fewer goods). Unfortunately, all these triggers are currently in play as countries respond to a series of global crises. The invasion of Ukraine and ongoing COVID-19 supply chain disruptions have reduced the goods available. Governments globally have boosted spending to support their economies. But this latter factor has been put on steroids by central banks being willing to purchase government debt. <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474468/original/file-20220718-53534-kfbvw2.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474468/original/file-20220718-53534-kfbvw2.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474468/original/file-20220718-53534-kfbvw2.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474468/original/file-20220718-53534-kfbvw2.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474468/original/file-20220718-53534-kfbvw2.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474468/original/file-20220718-53534-kfbvw2.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474468/original/file-20220718-53534-kfbvw2.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Man with mask pushing supermarket trolly." /><figcaption>Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused a cost-of-living crisis. <a class="source" href="https://www.gettyimages.com.au/detail/photo/man-wearing-mask-while-shopping-in-supermarket-royalty-free-image/1235145649?adppopup=true">Getty Images</a></figcaption></figure> Unintended consequences The RBNZ bought billions of government bonds to keep interest rates low as part of its <a href="https://www.parliament.nz/en/pb/library-research-papers/research-papers/library-research-brief-large-scale-asset-purchase-lsap-programme">“large scale asset purchases” programme</a>. In New Zealand, the average money growth between 1995 and 2019 was about 8% per year. This accommodates a growing population, a growing economy and a little bit of inflation (a little bit is OK). In the last two years money supply has grown by around 30% per year. Of course it’s easy to look back with the benefit of hindsight. Those who made the decisions at the time don’t have that luxury. The RBNZ is now they are having to wind back their asset purchases and raise interest rates to rein in inflation. Some argue the RBNZ has been <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/129311096/more-pain-expected-as-inflation-runs-hotter-than-a-government-can-handle">distracted and has dropped the ball on their key job</a> and we are now facing the risk the inflation genie is out of the bottle. Whether that criticism is justified or not, the RBNZ will now have to act decisively to reduce inflation. But getting inflation down is never painless. Households with mortgages will find their weekly budgets squeezed as interest rates rise. Firms will face falling demand from consumers with less to spend. Job growth will dry up – though New Zealand is in the fortunate position of starting with very low unemployment. Regardless, the RBNZ must do the job they got back in 1989 with the passing of the <a href="https://www.rbnz.govt.nz/-/media/29ada25bfa8b4e50922262618fb03e00.ashx?sc_lang=en">Reserve Bank of New Zealand Act</a>. New Zealand’s central bank is the only one that can control monetary conditions; it’s the only one that can get inflation under control. The same could be said for many of the countries facing growing inflation. If central banks don’t take decisive action, we could get a sharp reminder of just how bad inflation can be.<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/187154/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/stephen-hickson-1288490">Stephen Hickson</a>, Economics Lecturer and Director Business Taught Masters Programme, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-canterbury-1004">University of Canterbury</a> 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/inflation-is-2022s-boogeyman-how-can-we-address-rising-living-costs-while-helping-bring-it-down-187154">original article</a>. Image: Getty Images

Money & Banking

Gladys Berejiklian’s dad dies aged 90

Gladys Berejiklian’s dad Krikor, has died at the age of 90. Krikor Berejiklian passed away on July 10 from an undisclosed illness in hospital with his family by his side. The beloved father, former boilermaker and welder - who proudly worked on the Sydney Opera House, was farewelled at Chatswood’s Armenian Apostolic Church on July 14. He leaves behind his wife of 52 years Arsha and three daughters Rita, Mary and Gladys. The former Premier of NSW addressed mourners at the wake saying her father was "young at heart". "When he was in hospital he was asked by the medical staff how old he was and without hesitation he answered ‘only 90’," she said, <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/heartfelt-tribute-gladys-berejiklians-dad-krikor-dies-aged-90/news-story/deb9f7c69222e7c7bbac7a8347c2f9fe" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a> reported. "Our father was a humble man. He was a true gentleman, a real character and a friend to all he came into contact with. His smiling face always brought great joy." <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/CP9KvviB93u/?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/p/CP9KvviB93u/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Gladys Berejiklian (@gladysb)</a> </div> </blockquote> Ms Berejiklian said her father always encouraged her and her siblings to “work hard, be thoughtful to others, contribute to society and be proud of our Armenian heritage”. She then spoke about the family’s migration from Syria and Jerusalem after escaping the Armenian Genocide. "My parents were grateful that fate and circumstance had allowed them to raise a family in the safety and opportunity Australia provided. "As a sign of his gratitude, my father would adorn our balcony at the family home in North Ryde with the Australian flag on Australia Day." In the three weeks prior to his death and despite his deteriorating health, Krikor was able to leave his home and ride on a state Transit bus from North Ryde to Wynyard and back home again. Images: Instagram

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Harry and Meghan named "2023's biggest losers"

90-year-old grandma's secrets, regrets and brutal "advice"