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Matthew Perry's cause of death finally revealed

The sudden and tragic death of Friends actor Matthew Perry <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/you-were-loved-tributes-flow-over-tragic-passing-of-matthew-perry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shocked fans worldwide</a>. Now the County of Los Angeles' medical examiner has finally released its report detailing the cause of his demise, attributing it to the acute effects of ketamine. Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing in the iconic TV series, passed away at the age of 54 on the morning of October 28, after a game of pickleball. He returned home and sent his assistant on an errand. Two hours later, the assistant returned to find Perry unresponsive in the spa. Emergency services were called, but paramedics pronounced Perry dead at the scene. At the time, the coroner's report listed only drowning, coronary artery disease and the effects of opioid buprenorphine as contributing factors, ultimately ruling the death as an accident. Ketamine, a dissociative anaesthetic with hallucinogenic effects, has now been determined to have played a significant role in Perry's demise. The autopsy revealed that Perry was undergoing ketamine infusion therapy to manage depression and anxiety. However, the ketamine found in his system at the time of death could not be attributed to the most recent therapy session, as its half-life is only three to four hours. The report stated that the high levels of ketamine in his postmortem blood could lead to cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression. Perry had a history of substance abuse, openly discussing his battles with addiction dating back to his time on Friends in the 1990s. Despite being reportedly clean for 19 months before his death, the toxicology report revealed ongoing ketamine infusions. Perry had detailed his experiences with ketamine in his memoir, describing it as a "giant exhale" that made him feel as though he were "dying". “Ketamine was a very popular street drug in the 1980s," Perry wrote in his book Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing. "There is a synthetic form of it now, and it’s used for two reasons: to ease pain and help with depression. Has my name written all over it – they might as well have called it ‘Matty’.” During the pandemic, Perry received ketamine infusions in a Swiss rehab clinic, as revealed in his memoir. He explained that the drug, known for its pain-relieving and antidepressant properties, provided a unique and different experience. However, he also acknowledged the rough hangover associated with ketamine, ultimately stating that the drug was not for him. “Taking K is like being hit in the head with a giant happy shovel," he wrote. "But the hangover was rough and outweighed the shovel. Ketamine was not for me.” Images: Getty

Caring

Patti Newton's desperate plea to her troubled son

Patti Newton has issued a desperate plea to her son Matthew, who has spent two years out of the spotlight and has built a new life in America. According to <a href="https://www.nowtolove.com.au/womansday" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Woman's Day</a>, Patti is determined to see her family reunited, as she wishes for Matthew to return to Australia. After a series of scandals, Matthew fled the country and has since created a new life for himself in Texas with his <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/huge-matthew-newton-mystery-confirmed-during-bert-s-funeral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wife</a> Catherine Schneiderman. Matthew was arrested twice in 2012 following altercations in Miami, following a string of scandals in Australia, including several domestic violence allegations a charge of assault. Despite her son now living his best life in the US, Patti desperately wants him to return home. "Moving to Texas is the best thing either of them could have done. They're loving a new outdoorsy life and they're both looking and feeling great," a source told the magazine. "[But] Patti desperately wants them to come home to Australia." It's been several years since Matthew returned home, as he chose <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/why-matt-newton-won-t-be-attending-bert-s-funeral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">not to return</a> for his father Bert's funeral in 2021. Matthew, who suffers from bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and has a history of addiction, refrains from the spotlight after having a stint in the Australian entertainment scene with a series of TV shows and movies. Image credits: Ten

Family & Pets

The enduring appeal of Friends, and why so many of us feel we’ve lost a personal friend in Matthew Perry

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/adam-gerace-325968">Adam Gerace</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/cquniversity-australia-2140">CQUniversity Australia</a> The <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/videos/world/friends-star-matthew-perry-dies-aged-54/cloatn0ae00ea0jqbpdz0h8td">death of Matthew Perry</a>, best known for his role as Chandler Bing in the television series Friends, has seen an outpouring of grief from fans and the Hollywood community. His passing at age 54 has shocked both those who admired his acting work, as well as those who followed his efforts to bring awareness to <a href="https://people.com/tv/matthew-perry-opens-up-about-addiction-new-memoir/">the pains of addiction</a>. Tributes to Perry have understandably focused on his star-making turn on the incredibly popular television sitcom. Scenes, catchphrases, and his character’s lines have been lovingly repurposed across the internet to memorialise the gifted actor. Meanwhile, many viewers have situated their <a href="https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/friends-fans-mourn-matthew-perry-new-york-apartment-1235772520/">recollections</a> of Perry and the series within the context of their own experiences. Viewers who came of age, or were the characters’ ages during the show’s original run, have reminisced about what the work of Perry and his co-stars meant to them at formative times in their lives. Newer viewers have similarly shared how important the series has been to them – their relationship with the show often beginning long after production ended. For many, Friends was the television equivalent of the soundtrack to their lives. To appreciate the staying power of the series for original and <a href="https://www.etonline.com/streaming-friends-how-a-90s-sitcom-became-gen-zs-new-favorite-show-132624">newer viewers alike</a> almost 30 years since it debuted, we need to consider what functions television viewing serves and the bonds we form with its characters. <h2>Enduring appeal</h2> Part of Friends’ popularity lies in its timing. The show premiered in 1994, a period when network television was still dominant. By its end a decade later, while the power of the big television networks had <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/08838150701820924">eroded</a>, the series had maintained <a href="https://www.ratingsryan.com/2022/09/friends-nbc-ratings-recap.html">an average</a> of more than 20 million viewers each season. The 2004 finale brought in a <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2004/05/08/arts/friends-finale-s-audience-is-the-fourth-biggest-ever.html">record-breaking</a> 52.5 million viewers in the United States. The series then entered repeats around the world. It hasn’t left our screens since. The late 90s and early 2000s have sometimes been referred to as the end of monoculture. While a <a href="https://www.vox.com/the-goods/2019/12/17/21024439/monoculture-algorithm-netflix-spotify">contested and controversial idea</a> because of, among other concerns, who was included and excluded on our screens, monoculture meant we watched <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/bestmusic2012/2012/12/21/167836852/the-year-in-pop-charts-return-of-the-monoculture">many of the same things</a>. One of the most popular shows of its era, Friends brought people together. It was a show we watched with our families or friends, spoke about the next day with colleagues, and it provided a common connection. It allowed bonding with real friends as much as fictional ones. Friends did not only reflect style of the time; it also frequently created it. Jennifer Aniston’s haircut, coined “<a href="https://www.bustle.com/style/the-rachel-haircut">The Rachel</a>”, or Perry’s lovable smart-alecky cadence, typified with Chandler’s catchphrase of “Could I be any more…”, were endlessly imitated. I know I attempted to replicate Chandler’s <a href="https://www.gq.com.au/style/celebrity/unexpectedly-great-fashion-inspiration-courtesy-of-friends/image-gallery/f55ac75cc180e31c462525da961295fc">sweater vests</a> and light blue denim look. Participation provided viewers <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-5931.2011.00866.x">a sense</a> of identity. As people enter their 30s and 40s, they often <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0208595">gravitate</a> towards the memories made during their formative adolescent and young adult years. So perhaps it’s no surprise Friends endures for original viewers as it represents – and was a part of – their lives at this important time. <h2>Likeable characters</h2> Television and other fictional media meet our needs for <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2958.2009.01368.x">both</a> pleasure and extracting meaning. We get excited, entertained and moved by television. As part of this, we bond with fictional characters. We cannot help but <a href="https://doi.org/10.1207/S15327825MCS0403_01">empathise</a> with them. A series like Friends with its characters and their combinations of breakups, makeups and other mishaps allowed us to safely use our empathy muscles to cheer on and sometimes commiserate with the group of six. It helped that each character was flawed but inherently likeable. Fictional characters also allow us to <a href="https://theconversation.com/neighbours-vs-friends-we-found-out-which-beloved-show-fans-mourned-more-when-it-ended-212843">experience lifestyles</a> we might not otherwise. In the case of Friends, who didn’t want to live in a rent-controlled apartment like Monica’s, or regularly meet their supportive and funny pals for coffee at Central Perk? As a teen, I imagined such a world for myself in the not-too-distant future. Younger generations might be more aware of how out-of-reach that lifestyle was, or find the show’s <a href="https://ew.com/tv/jennifer-aniston-friends-offensive-new-generation/">humour sometimes dated</a>. But the idea of what the friends’ lifestyle represented – possibility, freedom, a chosen family – evidently still holds appeal. <h2>Fictional relationships, but real sadness</h2> In forming relationships with fictional characters, we form bonds with the performers who bring them to life. The lines between character and creator become blurry, both because of the knowledge about actors’ lives celebrity culture affords us, but also because their characters seem so real. When the actors pass away, we <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2016.06.042">feel real grief</a>. It’s important for fans of Matthew Perry to <a href="https://womensagenda.com.au/latest/why-with-all-the-sht-happening-in-the-world-its-still-okay-to-grieve-a-celebritys-death/">acknowledge</a> their loss. Even though his character is fictional, and you didn’t know him personally, you can still feel sad. Watching the series may be difficult right now. With time, it will become easier. Matthew Perry wanted <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/matthew-perry-death-addiction-alcoholism-drugs-b2437980.html">his legacy</a> to be awareness of addiction and the help he provided to people struggling with this disorder. Hopefully what will be felt now, alongside collective sadness, is an empathy for those facing addiction. That may be the power of television, and of a character named Chandler, and the actor who brought him to life, who many considered their friend.<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/216626/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/adam-gerace-325968">Adam Gerace</a>, Senior Lecturer and Head of Course - Positive Psychology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/cquniversity-australia-2140">CQUniversity Australia</a> Image credits: Getty Images 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/the-enduring-appeal-of-friends-and-why-so-many-of-us-feel-weve-lost-a-personal-friend-in-matthew-perry-216626">original article</a>.

"Matthew would enjoy the humour of it": Ironic detail spotted in Friends tribute

While many fans of the long-running sitcom Friends are in mourning over the <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/you-were-loved-tributes-flow-over-tragic-passing-of-matthew-perry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sudden death of Matthew Perry</a>, others have delighted in an ironic detail surrounding the Friends apartment in New York. Since the announcement of Perry's death on Sunday, thousands of fans of the show has flocked to the apartment building in New York City's West Village, where the external shots of the gang's apartment was filmed, to pay their respects. While the sitcom, which ran for ten years from 1994, was actually filmed in Los Angeles, the Bedford Street address was used for the external shots of the New York-based show, with the humble apartment being home to each of the cast members during the show. Fans of the show have left notes, flowers, Central Perk memorabilia, and other sentimental items to pay tribute to the late actor. However, one eagle-eyed fan spotted a quirky detail hovering around the building, as Perry's death coincided with Halloween. <iframe style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKidspotAustralia%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02xSVyrpRthTeLeBNqtvHKWUB36us5bVB5vKCW1R9DYgF66kBWqnsSYarY2kDFfCT3l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="581" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Part of the building's Halloween decorations included a large ghost hovering near the iconic apartment, with many quick to point out the hilarious irony of the figure floating above the makeshift memorial. “That Halloween ghost is kinda fitting for the photo/mood and I think Matthew would enjoy the humour of it,” fan Holly astutely pointed out, sharing photos of the ghost on Facebook. The ironic decorations emerged shortly after Perry's Friends co-stars have <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/so-utterly-devastated-friends-cast-break-silence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">broken their silence</a> over his sudden death in a group statement to People magazine. Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer said on Tuesday, "We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family." "There is so much to say, but right now we're going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss." 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display: inline-flex; justify-content: center;"> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="start-time svelte-fllze1" style="text-shadow: 0px calc(var(--font-size) / 12.5) 0px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.25); top: calc(8px + var(--size-big-button)); position: absolute; left: 27px; transform: translate(-50%); background-color: var(--bg-color-pane); padding: 8px 16px; border-radius: 32px; font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: var(--margin-size); margin-left: 2px;" data-cy="start-screen-duration">01:31</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="center-area svelte-10zo7b2" style="text-shadow: 0px calc(var(--font-size) / 12.5) 0px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.25); flex-grow: 1;"> </div> </div> <div class="chrome-bottom-shadow svelte-10zo7b2" style="text-shadow: 0px calc(var(--font-size) / 12.5) 0px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.25); transition: opacity 0.15s ease-in-out 0s; opacity: 0; position: absolute; inset: 0px;"> </div> </div> <div class="bb-layer bb-context-layer" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; position: absolute; top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 730px; height: 411px; overflow: hidden; border-radius: 10px; pointer-events: none !important;"> "For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty's family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world." </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Caring

Matthew Perry's huge net worth revealed

As the world <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/you-were-loved-tributes-flow-over-tragic-passing-of-matthew-perry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mourns the loss </a>of one of its beloved Friends stars, Matthew Perry, whose iconic portrayal of Chandler Bing left an indelible mark on fans worldwide, it's important to remember the legacy he leaves behind – a legacy encompassing not only his role in Friends but also his achievements in film, television, literature, real estate and more. While his presence will be missed, his work will continue to inspire and entertain fans for generations to come. Let's take a look at the legacy he leaves behind. The Friends Phenomenon Matthew Perry's fame skyrocketed when he became Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom in 1995. Initially earning US$35,000 per episode, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/so-utterly-devastated-friends-cast-break-silence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Perry and his five co-stars</a> (Jennifer Aniston, Courtney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer and Matt Le Blanc) rewrote history in 2002 when they negotiated a groundbreaking deal to earn US$1 million per episode during the show's final season. Each season consisted of 23 episodes, meaning that Perry made well over US$20 million for just one season. Over the course of the show's ten successful seasons, each cast member earned a staggering $141 million. To add to his wealth, Friends continues to be one of the most popular streaming series globally, guaranteeing the stars royalties of approximately $16 to $31 million annually. Even Warner Bros., the show's producer, reaps substantial profits, with an estimated $1.5 billion yearly from reruns. The 2021 Friends reunion special on HBO Max further contributed to Perry's financial success, with each principal cast member receiving $3.9 million. Film and Television Matthew Perry's talents extended beyond the realm of Friends. He starred in various film and television projects, including The Whole Nine Yards alongside Bruce Willis, Aaron Sorkin's Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip alongside West Wing alum Bradley Whitford, 17 Again, and The Odd Couple, where he also served as an executive producer. In his memoir, Perry disclosed that he negotiated his Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip salary from an initial offer of $79,000 per episode to $275,000 per episode. In the romantic comedy Fools Rush In (1997), he earned $1.57 million. Memoir Perry's memoir, titled Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir, was released in November 2022. Despite a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/keanu-reeves-attacked-for-still-being-alive" target="_blank" rel="noopener">minor hiccup involving actor Keanu Reeves</a>, where he questioned why Reeves was still alive while others like River Phoenix and Heath Ledger had tragically passed, Perry's memoir received a warm reception. Perry swiftly apologised for the comment and promised to remove all mention of Reeves from future editions. It's rumoured that Perry secured a "seven-figure" book deal for the candid memoir, which is bound to generate significant earnings through book sales. Real Estate Ventures Perry also dabbled in real estate throughout his life. In 2011, he purchased a $17 million beachfront home in Malibu, later listing it for $23 million in 2020. Ultimately, the property sold in 2021 for $20 million. In 2015, Perry sold another Malibu home for $17 million. In 2017, he acquired a luxurious 40th-floor condo in Century City for $30 million. Two years later, he listed the condo for $46.4 million but eventually sold it in 2021 for $28.3 million, 38% less than the initial asking price. One of his most recent acquisitions was a $7.8 million Hollywood Hills home, purchased in June 2021. In 2020, Perry bought his Pacific Palisades residence, where he resided until his passing. This midcentury modern ranch-style home boasted four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a fire pit and a raised pool overlooking the ocean. Car Collection Apart from his real estate ventures, Perry was known for his impressive car collection. It included various luxury vehicles, such as a Lincoln Navigator, a BMW 6 Series Convertible, a BMW 7 Series sedan, a Porsche Panamera, and a Porsche 911 Carrera Convertible. He also owned a BMW Z8, an Aston Martin Vantage Convertible, a Porsche Taycan 4S, and an Audi R8 Spyder, each valued between $300,000 and $500,000. Perry's enduring legacy spans far beyond the confines of the Friends universe. His multifaceted career, literary contributions, and real estate ventures have solidified his status as an entertainment icon. While his presence will be missed, his work will continue to inspire and entertain fans for generations to come. Image: NBC

Money & Banking

"So utterly devastated": Friends cast break silence

The cast of Friends have broken their silence on Matthew Perry's <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/you-were-loved-tributes-flow-over-tragic-passing-of-matthew-perry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tragic passing</a> over the weekend. His co-stars Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer, issued a joint statement to People Magazine on Tuesday. "We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family," the statement read. "There is so much to say, but right now we're going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss." "In time we will say more, as and when we are able." "For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty's family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world." The statement was signed by the cast. A few other Friends co-stars had previously paid tribute to the actor, Maggie Wheeler andMorgan Fairchild, were among them. Maggie Wheeler, who played Chandler's on-again, off-again girlfriend, Janice wrote: "What a loss. The world will miss you Matthew Perry. The joy you brought to so many in your too short lifetime will live on. I feel so very blessed by every creative moment we shared. ♥️" While Morgan Fairchild, who played Chandler's mother, Nora Bing, said she was "heartbroken" by the untimely loss of her "son". Images: Getty

Caring

"You were loved": Tributes flow over tragic passing of Matthew Perry

The world was left in shock and mourning as news broke of the tragic death of beloved actor Matthew Perry, best known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom Friends. The 54-year-old actor passed away in an apparent drowning accident at his Los Angeles home, leaving a void in the hearts of countless fans and colleagues. Emergency services were summoned to Perry's residence in the Pacific Palisades neighbourhood after an assistant found him unresponsive. Initial reports indicated that it was a "water rescue or water emergency". Disturbingly, a 911 call made from Perry's home shortly before first responders arrived mentioned the word "drowning." The actor was found unresponsive in his jacuzzi, where his life was tragically cut short. In the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed the death investigation at Perry's residence, marking the untimely end of a talented and cherished actor. The circumstances surrounding Perry's death remain the subject of public speculation. While law enforcement sources reported that no drugs were discovered at the scene and foul play is not suspected, the investigation continues. The family, including his mother Suzanne Morrison, father John Bennett Perry, and stepfather Dateline NBC's Keith Morrison, issued a statement expressing their profound grief and gratitude for the outpouring of love from fans. "We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother," the family said. "Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend. You all meant so much to him, and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love." In the dispatch audio obtained by TMZ, emergency responders referenced a "drowning" incident. While it is reported that Perry was found in a hot tub, a source later claimed that he had just returned home from a game of pickleball. Perry's passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and beyond. Former colleagues and fellow stars have paid their heartfelt tributes to the actor who brought laughter to millions with his portrayal of Chandler Bing. Maggie Wheeler, who portrayed Chandler's unforgettable on-again, off-again girlfriend, Janice, in Friends, expressed her gratitude for the joy Perry brought into people's lives. She shared on Instagram, "The joy Matthew brought to so many in his too short lifetime will live on. I feel so very blessed by every creative moment we shared." Morgan Fairchild, who played Chandler's mother, Nora Bing, described herself as "heartbroken" by the untimely loss of her "son". She acknowledged the brilliance of the young actor and the shock that this tragedy has brought to the entertainment world. Even Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who knew Perry from their shared history when Perry's mother worked as an aide to Trudeau's father, former Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, expressed his grief. Trudeau remembered the schoolyard games they played and the worldwide joy that Perry brought to fans. He said, "Thanks for all the laughs, Matthew. You were loved – and you will be missed." Piers Morgan, the renowned broadcaster and journalist, acknowledged Perry's talent as an actor but also recognised the struggles he faced. Perry's candid autobiography about his battle with addiction left a profound impact, and his passing is a stark reminder of the difficulties he endured. Warner Bros Television Group, which produced Friends for its entire run, released a statement expressing their devastation over the loss of their dear friend. “We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry. Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros Television Group family. The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many. This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans.” NBC, the network that aired Friends, also paid tribute to the late actor, highlighting the immense joy he brought to millions through his pitch-perfect comedic timing and wry wit. They emphasised that his legacy will continue to live on through countless generations. The passing of Matthew Perry is a loss not only for his family and friends but also for the countless individuals whose lives were brightened by his humour and talent. His portrayal of Chandler Bing on Friends remains etched in the hearts of fans around the world, and his memory will live on as an enduring source of laughter and joy. Images: Getty / NBC / Instagram

Caring

Andrew Johns quits radio over on-air family feud

Andrew and Matthew Johns are familiar faces in the world of NRL, and while they may have achieved legendary - or ‘Immortal’, in Andrew’s case - status in their sport, their public feuds have become a significant contributor towards their wider fame over the years. As recently as May 2023, the Johns brothers had an on-air disagreement over the year’s State of Origin series, in which each of them backed an opposing team. Joey is a staunch supporter of the NSW Blues side - and was a former player for the squad, regarded by many as one of the game’s best - and took issue with his brother’s praise and admiration for the QLD Maroons, as well as Matthew’s support for the side’s coach, Billy Slater. Matthew ‘Matty’ Johns set things off when he noted that Queensland were coming prepared, and when Andrew asked if that meant New South Wales didn’t, Matty confirmed it. “Mate I’m sick of you rapping Queensland, that’s what I’m sick of,” Andrew then declared. Their spat continued from there, with Andrew going on to share that he “couldn’t give a s**t. I don’t even look at Queensland”. But he wasn’t done there, concluding his take when he told his brother, “you’re blowing smoke up their backsides, I couldn’t care about Queensland. “He [Matty] said they’re easy to admire - they’re the enemy,” he said, before informing their audience, and co-host Andrew Webster, that the two had grown up “hating” the Maroons together. And now, according to Fox Sports, Andrew ‘Joey’ Johns has reportedly stepped down from his position at SEN’s Morning Glory with Matty Johns for the rest of the year in the wake of the argument. Additionally, the head of SEN Craig Hutchison had reportedly tried to keep the peace between them by suggesting that he’d take the two out for a lunch to clear the air, once the 2023 State of Origin series had wrapped up. It has even been reported that Andrew and Matty haven’t spoken since the on-air incident, with Matthew revealing that Andrew was “off me” after making his own return to the show. Meanwhile, Hutchison - who is also the host of Nine’s Footy Classified - had more to add on the matter, and the likelihood of mending the rift and getting Andrew back on air with them. “We love Joey and we love Matt,” he began. “They’ve been a fantastic part of SEN 1170 on Friday mornings. “We respect Joey’s wishes to concentrate on Origin at the moment. We understand he’s got a fair bit on his plate. And I probably underestimated how worked up he is. “We look forward to sitting down with him after Origin and welcoming him back with open arms. I’ll get them both together for a bite to eat and go from there.” Images: Getty

Matthew McConaughey's surprising connection to Woody Harrelson

Matthew McConaughey has shared a revelation about his relationship with his friend and Hollywood co-star Woody Harrelson. The acting duo, who notably shared the screen on the debut season of acclaimed crime drama True Detective in 2014, have been friends long before they ever acted on screen together. Now it has been revealed their bromance could have even greater ties, as the actors could be blood related. McConaughey, 53, and Harrelson, 61, are set to reunite on screen for an upcoming Apple TV+ comedy series, titled Brother From Another Mother, which triggered the conversation about their relationship. Appearing on the <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-off-camera-with-kelly-ripa/id1676166337" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Let’s Talk Off Camera with Kelly Ripa</a> podcast, McConaughey shared that the pair could actually share the same father. “You know, where I start and where he ends, and where he starts and I end, has always been like a murky line,” McConaughey began. He continued, “In Greece a few years ago, we’re sitting around talking about how close we are and our families,” McConaughey said. “And my mum [Mary Kathlene McCabe] is there, and she says, ‘Woody, I knew your dad’ … Everyone was aware of the ellipses that my mum left after ‘knew.’ It was a loaded ‘knew’." “We went on to unpack what this ‘knew’ meant and did some math and found out that [Harrelson’s] dad [Charles Harrelson] was on furlough at the same time that my mum and dad [James Donald McConaughey] were in their second divorce. Then there’s possible receipts and places out in West Texas where there might have been a gathering, or a meeting, or a ‘knew’ moment.” McConaughey said he and Harrelson are "on the precipice" of getting DNA testing done to uncover the truth, but McConaughey shared he has reservations because he’s spent “53 years believing” his dad James was his biological father. Both their fathers have passed away, with James dying of a heart attack in 1992, and Charles, a notorious US hit man and organised crime figure, also dying of a heart attack in his jail cell in 2007. Image credits: Getty Images

Family & Pets

More details revealed by father of Queensland cop killers

The father of the two men who shot at two Queensland police officers has opened up about his son’s gun obsession and how they turned away from religion which eventually led to the horrific murder of the officers. Constable Rachel McCrow, 29, and Constable Matthew Arnold, 26, were fatally shot at a property in Wieambilla, three hours outside of Brisbane as they carried out a missing persons call. Nathaniel and Gareth Train were identified as the two brothers who killed the officers, with their father Ron Train revealing how the pair turned to the dark side. “I’d describe them as two boys who lost their way in life,” he told A Current Affair, refusing to say they are monsters. Mr Train explained that he raised his sons with Christian beliefs but they turned away from religion before becoming estranged from their parents when they were in their 20s. “They went down this track, this dark track, which we have no understanding of.” He explained that the pair soon became obsessed with guns and that it was Gareth who showed more interest in the activity and was more controlling. “He was very difficult to control, very overpowering.” But in a surprising turn of events, Mr Train believes that Nathaniel’s marriage to Stacey Train, the third shooter, was up in the air after Gareth married her. “I just think in the end that he took over that relationship that Nathaniel and Stacey had,” Mr Train continued. Nathaniel and Stacey’s two children however were also estranged from the family. Mr Train said he broke down in tears after hearing what his sons had done saying he couldn’t take responsibility for their actions or defend them. “I cried out to God, because, you know, I’m a believer. I just could not understand,” he said. “Those decisions were made as adults. I can’t accept responsibility for something in an adult mind. “There’s no excuse for that. No excuses for their behaviour, and I don’t excuse my boys of their actions at all. “They’ll stand before God in this world. They can’t be brought to justice in the secular world, but they will before God.” Constable Matthew Arnold and Constable Rachel McCrow were at a property in the western Darling Downs, about three hours west of Brisbane when they were shot on December 12. One of the neighbours, Alan Dare, 58, was also shot and killed in the attack. Constable Arnold and Constable McCrow were joined by two other officers, Constable Keeley Brough and Constable Randall Kirk, both aged 28, at the property. A six-hour siege ensued, with the officers opening fire about 4.45 pm which saw Constable Arnold and Constable McCrow killed. Constable Kirk was also wounded while Constable Brough, who was only eight weeks into her new role, managed to escape and raise the alarm. The pair were finally joined by Special Operations police and helped them shoot dead three suspects, including brothers Nathaniel and Gareth Train, and Stacey Train, after a six hour siege. Images: Nine News

News

Cop sent farewell texts to loved ones during shootout

One of the police officers that survived the shootout which killed two of her colleagues has shared her final texts she sent to loved ones in the event she didn’t make it. Constable Rachel McCrow, 29, and Constable Matthew Arnold, 26, were fatally shot at a property in Wieambilla, three hours outside of Brisbane as they carried out a missing persons call. Constable Keeley Brough and Constable Randall Kirk, both aged 28, were also at the property with Constable Kirk suffering a gunshot wound. Nathaniel and Gareth Train were identified as the two brothers who killed the officers, with Stacey Train identified as the third shooter. Constable Brough thought these would be her final moments and that she would either be shot at or burned alive. So she sent farewell texts to her loved ones. "Constable Brough grabbed her phone to seek assistance for her colleagues," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told Parliament House. "And then, she texted her loved ones, what she imagined would be her final goodbyes. "Even then, surrounded by danger and death, her first thought was for her fellow officers." Mr Albanese said it was a “miracle” that Constable Brough survived the terrifying ordeal. "[Constable Brough] did not know whether she was going to be shot, or she was going to burnt alive," Queensland Police Union president Ian Leavers told the ABC on Tuesday. "'I do know she was sending messages to loved ones saying she almost thought it was her time. What was going through her mind, one cannot comprehend. "She was in contact with her other colleagues trying to assure them we could get support to go and assist their fallen colleagues at that point in time." Constable McCrow and Constable Arnold will be farewelled at a funeral service at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre at 10am on December 21. Details on how the public can offer their condolences will be available in the next few days. Images: Facebook

News

"With Honour They Served": Outpouring of emotion after shooting victims identified

The two police officers who were executed at a Queensland rural property have been identified. Constable Matthew Arnold and Constable Rachel McCrow were at a property in the western Darling Downs, about three hours west of Brisbane when they were shot on December 12. One of the neighbours, Alan Dare, 58, was also shot and killed in the attack which led to a manhunt for the alleged attackers. Police services around the country offered their condolences to the families of Constable Arnold and Constable McCrow after their heroic actions. “It is with a heavy heart we confirm the deaths of Constable Matthew Arnold and Constable Rachel McCrow,” Queensland Police wrote on Facebook. “Their lives were cut tragically short in the line of duty at Wieambilla yesterday. “With Honour They Served.” Police were at the rural property in response to a missing person, who was later identified as former school principal Nathaniel Train. There were grave concerns for Mr Train who disappeared from Dubbo in the NSW Central West in early December. Constable Arnold and Constable McCrow were joined by two other officers, Constable Keeley Brough and Constable Randall Kirk, both aged 28, at the property. A six-hour siege ensued, with the officers opening fire about 4.45 pm which saw Constable Arnold and Constable McCrow killed. Constable Kirk was also wounded while Constable Brough, who was only eight weeks into her new role, managed to escape and raise the alarm. The pair were finally joined by Special Operations police and helped them shoot dead three suspects, including brothers Nathaniel and Gareth Train, and a third female, after a six hour siege. Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll was heartbroken at describing what had happened, following the death of her colleagues. “This has been incredibly distressing and tragic for everyone, particularly family, officers involved, colleagues, the organisation and the community,” she said. “As you would appreciate. It is an extremely emotional and challenging time for the Queensland Police Service. Losing one of our own has a profound impact on every single officer and their families. To lose two officers in one incident is absolutely devastating. “This event is the largest loss of police life we have suffered in a single incident in many years. “I want to pay tribute to the two other officers who attended....they bravely did what they could to save their colleagues in the most horrendous circumstances. Their bravery was beyond belief. “Thank you also to the specialist police and other first stand-of-responders who were involved in the dangerous confrontation for many hours last night. Matthew and Rachel were highly respected and much loved members of the Queensland Police Service. “They were both committed and courageous young people who had a passion for policing and for serving their community. “Both are under 30 years of age. Both had wonderful careers and lives ahead of them.” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also offered his condolences to the fallen officers. “Terrible scenes in Wieambilla and a heartbreaking day for the families and friends of the Queensland Police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty,” he wrote on Twitter. “My condolences to all who are grieving tonight – Australia mourns with you.” Images: Facebook

News

Keanu Reeves attacked for still being alive

Matthew Perry has backtracked on his insensitive comments questioning why beloved Hollywood actor Keanu Reeves is still alive. In his memoir Friends, Lovers And The Big Terrible Thing, the Friends star questioned why his friend River Phoenix died but Reeves didn’t. “Why is it that the original thinkers like River Phoenix and Heath Ledger die, but Keanu Reeves still walks among us?” he wrote. Perry was discussing his friendship with River Phoenix - who is also friends with Reeves - and about the heartache he had when he overdosed on drugs in 1993 at the age of 23. He called Phoenix his “closest friend of that era” before attacking Reeves for still being alive. Social media was in uproar at his comments with many questioning why Perry would wish death upon anyone. “In a world full of Matthew Perry’s… be a Keanu Reeves,” someone wrote. “Of all the people in Hollywood, there’s absolutely no reason to come for Keanu Reeves who even after personal tragedy has remained, by accounts, generous and kind. He just makes movies and comics, treats his cast and crew right, and minds his own business,” another wrote. “Imagine coming for Keanu Reeves like that. Might as well let the internet know you think all kittens should be drowned at birth. Good luck out there, man,” someone else commented. Perry eventually came out and apologised and explained he was “actually a big fan” of Keanu Reeves. “I'm actually a big fan of Keanu,” he said. “I just chose a random name, my mistake. I apologize. I should have used my own name instead.” Images: Getty

Caring

Friends star claims Cameron Diaz punched him on date

Matthew Perry claimed that Cameron Diaz punched him in the face while out on a date. The Friends star revealed in his memoir titled Friends, Lovers And The Big Terrible Thing, that he was set up with the Charlie’s Angels star after she split up from Justin Timberlake in 2007. The pair went out in a group setting but it was apparent to Perry that Diaz just wasn’t interested, and he says she immediately got stoned. Perry continued trying to get the actress’ attention by saying something “witty” during a round of Pictionary, which did not go down so well. He claims that Diaz, who was allegedly stoned, tried to hit him on the shoulder but then “accidentally” hit him in the face. 'Are you f***ing kidding me?' he recalled saying to Diaz. Perry and Diaz obviously did not eventuate into anything, with rocker Benji Madden eventually putting a ring on the actress' finger. In his memoir, Perry is exposing past relationships including a <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/matthew-perry-reveals-rendezvous-with-julia-roberts" target="_blank" rel="noopener">rendezvous with Julia Roberts</a>. Perry found himself on the receiving end of Roberts’ flirty messages before he found out that she only agreed to appear in Friends if they shared the storyline. The actors went on to date before Perry’s mental health deteriorated and the couple split. Images: Getty

Books

Puzzle-cracking Matthew McConaughey fans could win tickets to meet him

If you consider yourself a sleuth or a puzzlemaster you could have a chance to meet Hollywood star Matthew McConaughey when he touches down in Australia for an “off-grid” concert. Fans hoping to see the Dallas Buyers Club actor at next month’s concert will need to identify the exclusive, secret location from a series of cryptic poems that will be shared on social media. Attendees of the concert, which will be headlined by Boy & Bear, will be selected by the Aussie rock band. McConaughey shared the news with fans in a statement, encouraging hopefuls to trust their instincts. <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/CkJqaBSh4-6/?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/CkJqaBSh4-6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Wild Turkey Australia (@wildturkeyau)</a> </div> </blockquote> “Trusting yourself, your instincts and spirit are the key to discovery and will always lead you down the right path in life, or a road up north,” the 52-year-old said. “For this reason, Wild Turkey and Boy & Bear are challenging Aussies to let go of the monotony of the last few years and let yourselves discover again. “The Discovery Series Acoustic Session fuels this spirit. However, it's more than discovery; it's for the love of the wilderness, and the enjoyment of bourbon and, most of all, music.” “So, sit back, check into the words and Trust Your Spirit – I'll be waiting patiently to congratulate those who take on the journey.” In a clip shared on social media, McConaughey described the event as a “very special evening out in nature”. Each of the clues will be posted on Wild Turkey’s official Instagram page. McConaughey has been involved with the bourbon brand since 2016, when he came on as its Creative Director and became the “chief storyteller”, according to the Wild Turkey website. “Wild Turkey has the history and qualities of a brand that depicts the dedication of someone to do something their own way – even if that way isn’t always the most popular,” McConaughey says on the site. “I want to help share their unique story.” Image: @officialmcconaughey (Instagram)

Domestic Travel

Matthew Perry reveals rendezvous with Julia Roberts

Friends actor Matthew Perry has opened up about his heated rendezvous with Julia Roberts…and other actresses. Perry found himself on the receiving end of Roberts’ flirty messages before he found out that she only agreed to appear in Friends if they shared the storyline. The sitcom’s co-creator urged Perry to get in touch with Roberts and “woo” her to join the series. “I had to woo her. I wanted something a tad flirty. I sent her three dozen red roses and the card read, ‘The only thing more exciting than the prospect of you doing the show is that I finally have an excuse to send you flowers’. “Her reply was that if I adequately explained quantum physics to her, she’d agree to be on the show. “The following day I sent her a paper all about wave-particle duality and entanglement, and only some of it was metaphorical. “Not only did Julia agree to do the show, but she also sent me a gift: Bagels — lots and lots of bagels.” The pair continued to communicate via fax for three months before Roberts appeared at Perry’s doorstep. In Perry’s new memoir Friends, Lovers And The Big Terrible Thing, he revealed that he would be rushing home to see if Roberts had faxed him back. “This was pre-internet, pre-cell phones. All our exchanges were done by fax,” he wrote. “I was grinning like some 15-year-old on his first date. And we had never even spoken yet, much less met each other.” One fateful fax later, Roberts told Perry to call him and he realised that they had fallen for each other. Later that week, Roberts appeared at his doorstep and their relationship blossomed into a whirlwind romance. “I let her in, both figuratively and literally, and a relationship began. We would already be a couple by the time we started filming the Friends Super Bowl episode.” Then on New Year’s Eve in 1996, Roberts took Perry to a mountain hideaway in New Mexico on her private jet to her mountain hideaway to meet her family. But soon things took a turn with Perry unable to tame his demons and the thought of dating Julia Roberts became too much. “Dating Julia Roberts had been too much for me. I had been constantly certain that she was going to break up with me. “I could never be enough; I was broken, bent, unlovable. So instead of facing the inevitable agony of losing her, I broke up with the beautiful and brilliant Julia Roberts. “I can’t begin to describe the look of confusion on her face.” Later in his memoir, Perry went on to reveal that he was also interested in Jennifer Anniston but she only wanted to be friends. He admitted that things were awkward on set but eventually he moved on from her lack of interest in him. And in 1994, before Friends hit the world by storm, Perry met Gwyneth Paltrow at a party in Massachusetts and the pair made out. “We slipped off into a broom cupboard and made out,” he revealed. “This was the last summer of my life when I could make out at a party with a beautiful young woman called Gwyneth and no one, save Gwyneth and I, cared.” Image: Getty

Relationships

Who was that incredibly tall man in the Queen's funeral procession?

With thousands turning out to see Queen Elizabeth II one last time as she was farewelled in a public memorial, one mourner stood out from the procession and sent the internet into a tizzy. The figure in question was Matthew Magee, one of the Queen’s former private secretaries. Standing at an impressive 7ft 2in, he would have towered over the late five-foot Queen. According to The Mirror UK, Magee is often confused with one of the monarch’s most dedicated members of staff, Paul “Tall Paul” Whybrew. Tall Paul, who is slightly shorter than Magee at 6ft 4in, was one of only three of the Queen’s male domestic staff who were invited to join the cortege from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall last week. He earned his nickname in comparison to another of Her Majesty’s footmen, Paul Burrell, who was known as Small Paul. Despite tall being in his name, Tall Paul was overshadowed by Magee, having sparked curiosity among many on social media. “Who is this insanely tall man? Is this the royal Slenderman?” one person shared on Twitter. “Anyone know who the exceedingly tall man is?” another asked. A third wrote, “I don’t know who he is, but he is a very tall man”. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Is this tall man the Royal Giant? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tallman?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tallman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Queen?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Queen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/funeral?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#funeral</a> <a href="https://t.co/UKdvFAf6za">pic.twitter.com/UKdvFAf6za</a> — Stephen Griffin (@Stephen_Griffin) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stephen_Griffin/status/1571869435039780864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2022</a></blockquote> Some asked whether he was related to English TV presenter Richard Osman, who stands at 6ft 7in, prompting Osman to trend on Twitter. “Curious as to who the tall man is - walking in the Queen’s Funeral Procession. Wearing Morning (sic) Dress and towering above everyone else. Must be knocking on 7ft tall… [Richard Osman] - though it was you!!!” one person wrote. “Wondered why Richard Osman was trending and it turns out it’s because there was a tall man wearing glasses at the Queen’s funeral,” another shared. With so many wondering about the mystery tall man’s identity, others were quick to reveal who he was - and even threw in a joke or two. “Matthew Magee. Private Secretary to the Queen. He’s 7ft 2inch tall. She always looked up to him,” one user joked. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Queens private secretary oversees everything <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/queensfuneral?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#queensfuneral</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tallman?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tallman</a> <a href="https://t.co/bJPE3A7aO9">pic.twitter.com/bJPE3A7aO9</a> — Jade Thomas (@Jadeesther23) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jadeesther23/status/1571869355993866241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2022</a></blockquote> “The Queen’s Private Secretary Matthew Magee (the very tall man with glasses in front of the hearse) is as tall as the soldiers with the bear skin hats on,” another revealed. Magee has previously worked as the private secretary to Prince Edward, though The Sun reported that he was chosen to work for the Queen in 2018 because of his “brilliant brain”. “He is a smashing guy with a great sense of humour and the Queen will love working with him on a daily basis,” a royal insider told the outlet at the time. Image: Twitter

International Travel

Lisa’s lawyer’s hefty daily charge

Lisa Wilkinson is being charged an eye-watering $11,000 a day for a high-profile lawyer following her speech at the Logies. Channel 10 has hired Australian Bar Association president Dr Matthew Collins QC for The Project host after her speech caused significant delays to the Brittany Higgins case, which was due to start this week.The case has now been postponed to October. Dr Collins is famous for winning high-profile cases - one of them being Rebel Wilson’s against Bauer Media, as well as YouTuber Jordan Shanks against former NSW deputy premier John Barilaro. The lawyer says it’s possible that Wilkinson could be charged with contempt of court, and admitted she should have known better. “It's certainly possible that the authorities will be looking at the speech that she made to the Logies and assessing that speech against the standard which applies in this branch of the law,” he said on Sunrise. “That standard is, did anything that she do have a tendency to interfere with the administration of justice? “You would hope that whenever the media is contemplating running a story about a serious criminal trial which is about to begin, they would be attune to the potential risks. “The mainstream media understands the risk inhering with talking about cases which are about to go to trial, particularly serious high-profile cases.” Wilkinson was already slammed for her comments last week by Chief Justice Lucy McCallum after rescheduling the case. It comes as Channel 10 warns publications of their criticism of Wilkinson and are not ruling out legal action for any harm that is caused. “This reporting is now causing significant harm and we ask these organisations to cease this harassment to allow Lisa the best opportunity to give her evidence in court and to enable the trial to go ahead in a fair and timely manner,” a spokesperson for the network said. “We are closely monitoring all coverage of this issue and Lisa and Network 10 reserve their rights in respect of any future defamation claims.” Images: Nine/Seven

Legal

“People are hurting”: Matthew McConaughey makes impassioned speech on shooting

Star actor Matthew McConaughey has taken a stand at Wednesday’s White House briefing, calling on Congress to “reach a higher ground” and pass gun control legislation in the wake of last month’s shooting in his hometown of Uvalde, Texas. In a 22-minute speech, McConaughey urged Congress to pass lifesaving gun reforms that didn’t infringe on Second Amendment rights, per the <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/matthew-mcconaughey-calls-for-action-on-gun-control-with-moving-speech-to-congress/4SA3TEG6NHO6BIWNK44SXRXSZU/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a>. The Dallas Buyers Club star spoke for 22 minutes, having spent several days in his hometown following the shooting, sharing the “stories, tears and memories” he and his wife witnessed there, all while urging a divided Congress to pass lifesaving gun reforms that didn’t infringe on Second Amendment rights. “The common thread, independent of the anger and the confusion and the sadness, was the same: How can these families continue to honour these deaths by keeping the dreams of these children and teachers alive?” he said. “So while we honour and acknowledge the victims, we need to recognise that this time it seems that something is different. “There is a sense that perhaps there is a viable path forward. Responsible parties in this debate seem to at least be committed to sitting down and having a real conversation about a new and improved path forward - a path that can bring us closer together and make us a safer country. A path that can actually get something done this time.” While sharing the personal stories of a number of the 19 children who were victims of the shooting, he displayed the artwork of one girl and the trademark green tennis shoes that belonged to 10-year-old Maite Rodriguez. McConaughey spoke of Maite’s dream of becoming a marine biologist and her passion for nature, becoming emotional while recounting that the shoes he was holding, branded with a heart over the right toe, were the “only clear evidence that could identify her”. He explained that he met a cosmetologist in Uvalde who had experience in mortuary makeup for open-casket viewings. “These bodies were very different [from most],” he explained. “They needed extensive restoration. Why? Due to the extremely large exit wounds of an AR-15 rifle. Most of the bodies were so mutilated that only DNA tests or green Converse could identify them.” “Many children were left not only dead - but hollow,” McConaughey added. McConaughey, who has previously identified as “aggressively centric” and has considered running for Texas governor, as reported by <a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/2022/06/matthew-mcconaughey-makes-impassioned-gun-reform-speech-from-white-house">Vanity Fair</a>, acknowledged that gun legislation wouldn’t end mass shootings, but suggested steps that could be taken to reduce the chances of others happening so often. “We need to invest in mental healthcare. We need safer schools. We need to restrain sensationalised media coverage. We need to restore family values. We need to restore our American values and we need responsible gun ownership,” he said. “Is this a cure all? Hell no, but people are hurting.” “I promise you, America, you and me, we are not as divided as we are being told we are.” To watch his full speech, head <a href="https://youtu.be/cJOw0XUyTQs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Image: Getty Images

Caring

Lisa Wilkinson apologises to Matthew McConaughey on behalf of Aussie women

Image: The Project & Getty Lisa Wilkinson has offered a sheepish apology to Matthew McConaughey during an interview on Tuesday’s episode of The Project. 'I must say belatedly on behalf of the women of Australia, I'm really sorry, because I recently learned that, according to you, Australian chicks didn't dig you,' said the 61-year-old Project panelist. Matthew, 52, claims he had no recollection of having ever made the comment, after spending a year in Australia as an exchange student when he was 18. He spent a year on the NSW Central Coast during what he described as a ‘formative’ time spent abroady. As Lisa asked, 'What did we do wrong?', a confused Matthew simply responded, 'Did I say that?' He added: 'It might've been more my fault. It was a formative year but it was an awkward year as well. So a lot of the blame is probably on me for that.' In his autobiography titled Greenlights, Matthew confessed he struggled to 'maintain my sanity in the strange place I was in'. Adding that he got 'very thin' during his year abroad in Australia, and worked six different jobs during his time here. 'I also decided to become abstinent for the rest of the year, which still had nine months in it,' he wrote. 'I started believing that my life's calling was to become a monk. I made plans to go to South Africa after my year's exchange and free Nelson Mandela.' He shared that he was enrolled at an 'awkward' high school where he complained 'everyone wore uniforms and played tag at lunch'. 'No one wanted to party and the chicks were not digging me,' he added.

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Matthew Perry's cause of death finally revealed

Patti Newton's desperate plea to her troubled son

The enduring appeal of Friends, and why so many of us feel we’ve lost a personal friend in Matthew Perry