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Prince Louis turns 7, loses teeth, gains fans

<p>The Prince and Princess of Wales have released a new video of their youngest son, Prince Louis, in celebration of his 7th birthday – and fans were quick to notice one majestic omission!</p> <p>The young royal, known for upstaging grown adults with nothing but facial expressions and unfiltered energy, beamed into the camera with a grin so wide it could be measured in acres – revealing a spectacular dental vacancy.</p> <p>Yes, Prince Louis is now officially a member of the exclusive “Missing Front Teeth Club”, joining generations of British children, Jack-o'-lanterns and occasionally stressed-out rugby players.</p> <p>The video, taken behind the scenes of a photoshoot with photographer Josh Shinner, captures the birthday boy mid-adventure, clad in jeans, a jumper and brown boots – aka, "British Boy Chic". In a moment of cinematic glory, Louis approaches the camera like a pint-sized action hero, then flashes his now-iconic toothless grin.</p> <p>But it wasn’t just his smile that had viewers grinning: it was his voice.</p> <p>“I can jump down from there!” Louis proclaims, boldly sizing up a log that looked suspiciously like it had auditioned for a Bear Grylls special. He then executes the leap, presumably sticking the landing, though the palace has yet to confirm whether a royal stunt double was involved.</p> <p>This rare vocal cameo marks only the second time the public has heard Prince Louis speak. The first was in 2020, when he interrogated naturalist Sir David Attenborough with a hard-hitting question: “What animal do you like?” (Attenborough's answer: monkeys – though many suspect he now ranks Louis higher.)</p> <p>Royal fans rejoiced at the annual tradition of birthday content, with one commenting, “He’s growing up so fast — and shrinking his dental real estate just as quickly!”</p> <p>The official photo was released with the caption: “Wishing Prince Louis a very Happy 7th Birthday!” Though some believe it should have added, “...and a speedy return of those front teeth”.</p> <p>At press time, Buckingham insiders declined to comment on whether the Tooth Fairy was knighted in a private ceremony earlier this week.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">📽️🎞️ Seven today! <a href="https://t.co/n3lNIXesCR">pic.twitter.com/n3lNIXesCR</a></p> <p>— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/1915035767518232641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <p><em>Images: X (Formerly Twitter) / Josh Sinner</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Pope Francis' cause of death and burial wishes revealed

<p>The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis died from a stroke followed by heart failure, according to an official statement released by the Vatican press office. The 88-year-old pontiff passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, with underlying health conditions also contributing to his death.</p> <p>In a statement signed by Andrea Arcangeli, Director of the Health and Hygiene Directorate of the Vatican City State, the Vatican revealed that Francis had suffered a previous episode of acute respiratory failure, along with arterial hypertension and type II diabetes.</p> <p>Pope Francis made his final public appearance on Easter Sunday, where he delivered a brief Easter blessing to thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square. Unable to finish reading his address, the ailing pope sat as an aide delivered the rest of the speech, which called for peace in war-torn regions such as Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan.</p> <p>Following his death, the Vatican also made public the burial wishes outlined in the pope’s will. Francis requested a simple burial in the ground at Rome’s Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore – marked only with the Latin inscription <em>Franciscus</em>. This will be the first time in over a century that a pope will be buried outside the Vatican.</p> <p>According to the will, an anonymous benefactor has agreed to cover the costs of his burial.</p> <p>With the pontiff’s passing, the Catholic Church now enters a traditional period of mourning known as the Novendiales, lasting nine days. During this time, Pope Francis will lie in state as preparations for his funeral are made.</p> <p>The conclave – the sacred process to elect a new pope – is expected to begin no sooner than 15 days and no later than 20 days following his death.</p> <p>Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, became the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope. His death marks the end of a papacy defined by humility, progressive stances and a deep focus on global humanitarian issues.</p> <p><em>Images: Wikimedia Commons</em></p>

Caring

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Princess Diana’s largest-ever wardrobe auction set to dazzle the world

<p>Get ready for royal fashion history to be rewritten... This June, the largest collection of clothing ever owned by Diana, Princess of Wales, will hit the auction block – and it promises to be nothing short of spectacular.</p> <p>Julien's Auctions, the house behind this extraordinary event, has announced that over 200 breathtaking pieces will go under the hammer, many of which have never been seen by the public before. From the timeless elegance of Princess Diana to the grandeur of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, plus historic treasures from Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen Mother, and even royal heirlooms dating back to the 19th century – this auction is shaping up to be a once-in-a-lifetime event.</p> <p>Fittingly titled <a href="https://www.juliensauctions.com/en/auctions/princess-diana-s-style-a-royal-collection" target="_blank" rel="noopener">"Princess Diana's Style & A Royal Collection"</a>, the auction will unfold at the glamorous Peninsula Beverly Hills on June 26. According to Julien’s, the sale offers fans and collectors a rare and intimate chance to own a piece of history and connect with Diana’s iconic style legacy.</p> <p>"Princess Diana holds a special place in the heart of Julien's Auctions, and we are honoured to continue to preserve her legacy," shared Martin Nolan, co-founder and executive director of Julien's. "This collection is the most significant offering of her wardrobe ever presented at auction – each item a window into a moment in history and a tribute to a woman whose humility, style, and personal warmth continue to inspire the world."</p> <p>Among the crown jewels of the collection is the charming 1988 Bellville Sassoon floral day dress, affectionately known as Diana’s "caring dress." The late princess famously wore this bright, cheerful ensemble during hospital visits and engagements with children, knowing its joyful print would lift spirits. Diana even skipped the matching hat, saying, "You couldn't cuddle a child in a hat."</p> <p>While Julien’s is keeping the full list of auction items under wraps for now, excitement is mounting. Some pieces originally featured in Diana’s legendary 1997 Christie's auction – which raised an astounding $5 million for charity – will make an encore appearance.</p> <p>Before the big day, the dazzling collection will go on display in museums in Seattle and Ireland, giving fans worldwide the chance to admire these royal treasures up close.</p> <p>The auction follows a streak of record-breaking sales for Diana’s wardrobe. In 2023, her unforgettable ballerina-length black and blue evening gown by Jacques Azagury fetched a staggering $1.4 million, shattering records at 11 times its estimate. And let’s not forget her beloved emerald green Kurt Geiger shoes, which sold for an eye-watering $693,000.</p> <p>Perhaps most astonishing of all: Diana's famous sheep-print jumper by Warm and Wonderful, which leapt to an incredible $1.7 million at auction last year – a jaw-dropping 14 times its expected price.</p> <p><em>Image: <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #2c3338; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen-Sans, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space-collapse: preserve-breaks;">Julien's Auctions</span></em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Tragedy on first cruise: Aussie couple’s dream trip ends in heartbreak

<p>What began as a dream getaway for Aussie couple Glenn and Beverley Stein has ended in devastating tragedy, after Glenn, 74, died suddenly during their very first cruise.</p> <p>Described as "humble and hardworking", the couple had never been overseas or on a cruise before. Their four-day voyage from Brisbane to Airlie Beach, a generous gift from their son after a lucky windfall, was meant to be a long-overdue escape for the pair, who had spent more than 50 years side by side.</p> <p>"They had never been on a cruise before, never even been overseas," daughter-in-law Sarah <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/carnival-cruise-passengers-8500-blow-after-on-board-tragedy-they-didnt-realise-033649566.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shared with Yahoo News</a>. "One of their sons won some money so he thought it might be nice to buy them a cruise."</p> <p>According to Sarah, the couple were thoroughly enjoying their time onboard. But just a few days into the trip, Glenn began to feel unwell, suspecting it was merely “a bit of food poisoning”. True to their no-fuss nature, the Steins tried not to worry and went to bed, assuming he would feel better by morning.</p> <p>Tragically, Beverley awoke the next day to find Glenn unconscious. In shock, she raised the alarm with the ship’s housekeeping staff, who immediately called the onboard medical team. “The staff were amazing. We’ve got a 43-page report detailing all the care they gave him," Sarah said, commending the cruise medical team for their efforts and support during the ordeal.</p> <p>Glenn’s condition rapidly deteriorated. Doctors soon discovered he was suffering from a life-threatening strangulated hernia, requiring emergency surgery. As they awaited an airlift to Bundaberg Hospital, the crew urged Beverley to speak with her husband and prepare for the worst.</p> <p>Even aboard the emergency helicopter, Glenn’s health continued to fail. Once at the hospital, paramedics warned the couple’s children, already en route, to call in immediately.</p> <p>“They managed to speak to Glenn, which was really nice,” Sarah said. Heartbreakingly, just minutes later, when Sarah and her husband tried to call, they were told Glenn had passed away. "He had literally just passed away as soon as they got off the phone."</p> <p>Adding to the family's anguish, they soon discovered that because Glenn and Beverley had unknowingly crossed into international waters, and hadn't purchased travel insurance, Beverley was left facing an $8,500 medical bill.</p> <p>“This was their first cruise; they didn’t realise it was actually out of Australian waters,” Sarah explained, calling the experience a “cautionary tale” for other travellers. While understanding of the fees, the family is now hoping the cruise company might show some compassion and reduce the amount.</p> <p>Loved ones have <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-bev-after-the-sudden-loss-of-her-beloved-husband-glenn?cdn-cache=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">launched a GoFundMe</a> to help cover the medical costs and funeral expenses. "Bev is not only grieving the loss of her life partner but is now also facing overwhelming financial pressure," the family wrote. "Any contribution, no matter how small, will go directly toward covering the significant costs associated with Glenn’s passing and supporting Bev as she begins to navigate life without him."</p> <p>Despite their grief, the family has found bittersweet moments of humour in the aftermath. “It’s really funny,” Sarah recalled, “his daughter mentioned, ‘Dad always said he never wanted a fuss and just wanted to go quietly,’ and it’s ended up being a helicopter out and on the news – so he couldn’t have been more dramatic."</p> <p>As they rally around Beverley, the Steins’ loved ones hope their story will serve as a reminder of the importance of travel insurance — and of cherishing every moment with the ones you love.</p> <p><em>Images: GoFundMe</em></p>

Cruising

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Adorable new portraits mark Prince Julian's 4th birthday!

<p>Sweden is celebrating a special milestone as Prince Julian, the youngest son of Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia, turns four years old! In honour of this joyous occasion, the Swedish Royal Family has released an adorable new portrait of the young prince, capturing hearts across the nation and beyond.</p> <p>Dressed in a charming knitted cardigan over a collared shirt, Prince Julian was photographed sitting gracefully in an armchair, exuding both innocence and poise. His parents proudly shared the heartwarming portrait on their official Instagram account, accompanied by a loving caption: "Today we celebrate our exuberant Julian who turns 4 years old🎉❤️."</p> <p>Born on March 26, 2021, at Danderyd Hospital, Prince Julian is the third child of Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia. His arrival was met with great excitement from his parents and older brothers, Prince Alexander, now eight, and Prince Gabriel, seven. Upon his birth, Prince Carl Philip shared a heartfelt statement: "We are so happy and grateful to welcome our fourth son to the family. This day has been longed for by both us and his two older brothers. Now we look forward to getting to know our new family member."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHqErnaoCpd/?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/DHqErnaoCpd/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Prinsparet (@prinsparet)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Prince Julian’s birthday comes during an exciting time for the Swedish royal family, as it follows the recent birth of his baby sister, Princess Ines. Born just weeks ago, Princess Ines is the first daughter of Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia, completing their beautiful family of four children. The proud parents introduced their newest addition with a touching Instagram post, stating: "It turned out to be a perfect little quartet. Big and warm thanks for all the nice congratulations to our little Ines."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DF9_AL8ofsh/?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/DF9_AL8ofsh/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Prinsparet (@prinsparet)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>While Princess Ines is a member of the Swedish Royal Family, she does not hold a position within The Royal House. This follows King Carl XVI Gustaf’s 2019 decision to redefine the roles of his grandchildren, allowing them to retain their ducal titles while removing their "Royal Highness" status.</p> <p>As Sweden celebrates Prince Julian’s fourth birthday, royal fans are delighted by this sweet glimpse into the young prince’s life. Happy birthday, Prince Julian!</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Hilarious gift for Home and Away icon after her final scene

<p>After an incredible 33-year run on <em>Home and Away</em>, beloved actress Lynne McGranger has filmed her final scene, marking the end of an era for both the show and its devoted fans. Portraying the iconic Irene Roberts, McGranger’s departure is a moment of celebration and nostalgia for the Australian TV industry.</p> <p>McGranger wrapped up her last scene on the legendary Pier Diner set at Seven’s Eveleigh Studios in Sydney on Wednesday. The emotional moment was met with cheers and heartfelt applause as the cast and crew gathered to witness the final take for the longest-serving female cast member in the show’s history.</p> <p>Producer Lucy Addario led the tributes, presenting McGranger with a bouquet of flowers on behalf of the <em>Home and Away</em> production team. Adding a touch of humour and nostalgia, she was also gifted the famous “Hamburger Phone” – a prop synonymous with the Diner – as a token of appreciation for her unforgettable contribution to the show.</p> <p>Grateful and emotional, McGranger reflected on her incredible journey. “I’ve had the ride of my life. And I love each and every one of you so much: The cast – Ray, Georgie, Emily, Shane, Ada, James, all the youngins,” she said. “The art department, the writers, everybody – there’s so many unsung heroes. This show is made up of so many parts. You’re all amazing, and it’s been my great privilege to work with each and every one of you. I’m touched, I’m humbled, and I’m so honoured. Thank you so much.”</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHp-tuUCy-h/?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/DHp-tuUCy-h/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by 7NEWS Sydney (@7newssyd)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Though McGranger’s time on set has concluded, her character’s exit storyline promises to keep viewers captivated for months to come. Since her debut in January 1993, Irene has been a cornerstone of Summer Bay, known for her toughness, sharp wit and heart of gold. A recovered alcoholic who turned her life around, Irene’s journey has seen her take in numerous foster children and face some of the show’s most dramatic storylines, from battling breast cancer to surviving bomb explosions and plane crashes.</p> <p>Throughout the years, Irene’s signature catchphrases – “girly”, “darl”, and “flippin’ heck!” – have cemented her place in Australian pop culture. In 2023, <em>TV WEEK</em> even ranked her the second Greatest Australian TV Character Of All Time, a testament to McGranger’s unforgettable performance <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">(Alf was No.1, in case you're wondering)</span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">.</span></p> <p>Even as fans prepare to say goodbye to Irene Roberts over the coming months, McGranger’s legacy will live on in the hearts of <em>Home and Away</em> viewers. Her unmistakable charm has left an indelible mark on the show, and she will always be remembered as a true Summer Bay icon.</p> <p><em>Images: Network 7</em></p>

TV

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"It's not our way": Young Indigenous woman speaks out against Acknowledgment of Country

<p>A young Indigenous woman has sparked controversy by criticising the Acknowledgement of Country, claiming the practice is 'made up' and not representative of Indigenous Australian culture.</p> <p>Kiescha Haines Jamieson was asked on social media whether the formal observation is an 'actual traditional practice' or a 'modern white saviour thing'.</p> <p>'It is a made up protocol by Reconciliation Australia,' she claimed. 'It's not culture. It's not our way.'</p> <p>The Acknowledgement of Country is a relatively recent practice, emerging in the 1990s during what the Keating Government called 'the Reconciliation Decade'. It was formalised as part of efforts to improve Indigenous-state relations, with former Labor senator and Yawuru man Pat Dodson playing a key role in its establishment.</p> <p>'The work of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation encouraged strangers to recognise country, then, as people got stronger, the welcome developed,' Dodson explained.</p> <p>The practice is distinct from a Welcome to Country, which is a ceremony performed by a traditional owner to formally welcome visitors to their land. Acknowledgement of Country, by contrast, is often delivered by non-Indigenous people or organisations to recognise traditional owners.</p> <p>Ms Jamieson argued that the practice has now been 'institutionalised to make people think that it is our culture'. Her comments resonated with some social media users, who agreed that the protocol was 'made up'.</p> <p>'Finally someone with the guts to tell the truth,' one user wrote. However, others pushed back, arguing that acknowledging country has deep cultural significance for some Indigenous groups.</p> <p>'It's a traditional thing for our mob, but not as grand as it's shown on TV,' one commenter noted. 'It's not really a welcome, it's more like a way to notify the spirits and ancestors that mob are travelling.'</p> <p>Another person added: 'You don't speak for all mobs and you don't speak for mine.'</p> <p>Yawarllaayi/Gomeroi elder Barbara Flick Nicol has previously stated that welcoming and acknowledging visitors has existed for thousands of years in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.</p> <p>'It's always been something that we did as a people, understanding and observing the fact that when you are in somebody else's country, that you acknowledge them,' she told NITV in 2020.</p> <p>Ms Flick Nicol said that formal acknowledgments began appearing in New South Wales after the landmark Mabo decision in 1992, with councils raising Aboriginal flags and formally recognising traditional owners at meetings and conferences.</p> <p>Former federal politician and Wiradjuri woman Linda Burney, who was involved in the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation, defended the practice, saying it evolved organically. 'It wasn't strategised or planned. Once it got out to civic life it was something that people saw as an important way to tell the truth of the Australian story,' she said.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Legal

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Grief as European royal passes away at just 46

<p>Archduchess Estelle de Saint-Romain of Austria has passed away at the age of 46. A statement published in Le Figaro's Carnet du Jour confirmed that Estelle Lapra de Saint-Romain, wife of Archduke Carl Christian of Austria, died on March 4, 2025. Her family laid her to rest at the Monastère de Cimiez in Nice, France, a week later.</p> <p>"Her husband, Archduke Carl Christian, their children, her parents, and her in-laws are deeply saddened to announce that Archduchess Estelle of Austria, née Lapra de Saint Romain, was called to God on Tuesday, March 4, 2025," the statement read in translation. The cause of death was not disclosed, though reports indicate she had previously been diagnosed with cancer.</p> <p>Born in 1979, Estelle married Carl Christian in 2007. He is the great-grandson of Emperor Charles I of Austria, the last ruler of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Together, they had five children: Zita, 17, Anezka, 15, Anna, 12, Paola, 10, and Pier-Georgia, 4.</p> <p>The funeral service, attended by several European royals, took place at the historic Monastère de Cimiez. Among those in attendance were Belgium's Princess Astrid, Luxembourg's Princess Marie-Astrid, the Duke of Castro, and Ferdinand of Habsburg. Brother Antonio Basso led the ceremony, remembering Estelle for her "loving wisdom" and recalling how she and her family regularly attended Mass at the monastery.</p> <p>Despite the dissolution of the Austrian monarchy in 1918, the Habsburg family remains prominent in European society. Estelle and Carl Christian’s wedding in 2007 attracted significant attention, with crowds gathering to witness the event. Three hundred distinguished guests attended, including Princess Astrid, Liechtenstein’s Prince Gundakar, and Jean-Christophe, Prince Napoléon.</p> <p>Carl Christian, the eldest son of Archduke Rodolphe de Habsbourg-Lorraine and Archduchess Marie-Hélène, née Baroness de Villenfagne de Vogelsanck, is part of an extensive noble lineage. His cousin, Archduke Karl von Habsburg, is the current head of the Austrian Imperial House.</p> <p>Archduchess Estelle’s passing marks a great loss for the Habsburg family and the European aristocracy, as she is remembered for her grace, devotion, and dedication to her family and faith.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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Prince William shares deeply personal message over fallen war hero

<p>Prince William has shared a deeply personal message in remembrance of John 'Paddy' Hemingway, the last surviving pilot from the Battle of Britain, who passed away on St Patrick's Day at the age of 105.</p> <p>The Prince of Wales, a former Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot himself, took to social media on Tuesday to express his condolences and gratitude for Hemingway’s service.</p> <p>"I was sad to hear about the passing of John 'Paddy' Hemingway this morning, the last of 'The Few'," the 42-year-old royal wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. "We owe so much to Paddy and his generation for our freedoms today. Their bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered. We shall never forget them."</p> <p>Hemingway, born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1919, joined the RAF as a teenager and became one of the young airmen who defended Britain during the pivotal 1940 Battle of Britain. These pilots, immortalised as "The Few" following a famous speech by then-Prime Minister Winston Churchill, played a crucial role in thwarting the German air offensive during World War II.</p> <p>Churchill’s words – "Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few" – have since become a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of Hemingway and his fellow pilots.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">I was sad to hear about the passing of John ‘Paddy’ Hemingway this morning, the last of “The Few”. We owe so much to Paddy and his generation for our freedoms today. Their bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered. We shall never forget them. W</p> <p>— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/1901914010863202506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <p>Current Prime Minister Keir Starmer also paid tribute to Hemingway, acknowledging his extraordinary courage and contribution to securing the nation's freedom.</p> <p>"Very sad to hear of the passing of Group Captain John 'Paddy' Hemingway, the last known Battle of Britain pilot," Starmer wrote on X. "His courage, and that of all RAF pilots, helped end WWII and secure our freedom. We will never forget their bravery and service. Thank you, John 'Paddy' Hemingway."</p> <p>King Charles has yet to make a public statement, but RAF Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton honoured Hemingway’s remarkable legacy, remembering him as "an amazing character" who carried the spirit of camaraderie and bravery throughout his life.</p> <p>"Paddy always had a twinkle in his eyes as he recalled the fun times with colleagues in France and London," the RAF said in a statement announcing his passing.</p> <p>Hemingway’s passing marks the end of an era, but his service and sacrifice will live on in history. As the last of 'The Few', he leaves behind a legacy of courage that will continue to inspire generations to come.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram \ Royal Airforce</em></p>

Caring

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Prince Robert of Luxembourg announces youngest son's death

<p>Prince Robert of Luxembourg has announced the heartbreaking loss of his youngest son, Frederik, at the age of 22. </p> <p>Frederik is Prince Robert's youngest son with wife Princess Julie of Nassau.</p> <p>According to a statement shared on the <a href="https://polgfoundation.org/frederik/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">POLG Foundation's</a> website,  Frederik died on March 1 in Paris, France, from POLG Mitochondrial disease, a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive multiple organ dysfunction and failure.</p> <p>"It is with a very heavy heart that my wife and I would like to inform you of the passing of our son, The POLG Foundation Founder and Creative Director, Frederik," the statement, written by Robert began. </p> <p>Frederik, was born in  Aix-en-Provence, France, on March 18, 2002, with POLG Mitochondrial disease, but was only diagnosed at the age of 14. </p> <p>He and his father later co-founded the POLG Foundation, with Frederik serving as Creative Director while Robert served as Chair.</p> <p>"Last Friday, February 28th, on 'Rare Disease Day', our beloved son called us in to his room to speak to him for one last time," the statement continued.</p> <p>"Frederik found the strength and the courage to say goodbye to each of us in turn." </p> <p>That included his brother, 27-year-old Prince Alexandre, his sister, 29-year-old Princess Charlotte and her 27-year-old husband, Mansour Shakarchi.</p> <p>Frederik also said his final goodbyes to his father's sister, Princess Charlotte, her husband Marc Victor Cunningham, and their three children: Charly, Louis, and Donall.</p> <p>"He had already spoken all that was in his heart to his extraordinary mother, who had not left his side in 15 years," Robert continued. </p> <p>"After gifting each of us with our farewells – some kind, some wise, some instructive – in true Frederik fashion, he left us collectively with a final long-standing family joke.</p> <p>"Even in his last moments, his humour, and his boundless compassion, compelled him to leave us with one last laugh….to cheer us all up." </p> <p>Prior to his other goodbye messages, Robert said, Frederik asked him: "Papa, are you proud of me?"</p> <p>"He had barely been able to speak for several days, so the clarity of these words was as surprising as the weight of the moment was profound," Robert wrote.</p> <p>"The answer was very easy, and he had heard it oh so many times, but at this time, he needed reassurance that he had contributed all that he possibly could in his short and beautiful existence and that he could now finally move on."</p> <p>"Frederik knows that he is my Superhero, as he is to all of our family, and to so very many good friends," Robert continued, noting how his son "was born with a special capacity for positivity, joy, and determination."</p> <p>"When he was little, I would always say that if there is one child of ours that I would never need to worry about, it was him," he continued. </p> <p>"He has social skills like no other, an amazing sense of humour, an emotional intelligence and compassion that were off the charts, a sense of justice, fairness and decency that knows no bounds. He was disciplined and organised beyond belief. " </p> <p>"Frederik is particularly headstrong (at times, I might have used the word stubborn). This serves him well. I cite him as being here in the present because I know that, though physically absent, he is still here, inspiring us and pushing us forward. His mission is not complete, and we all have much work left to do." </p> <p>Robert then thanked their family for their "messages of support and love", before asking those reading the tribute to volunteer with or donate to the POLG Foundation in Frederik's memory. </p> <p>"With our Superhero's help we hope to turn our deep grief into positive results and therewith follow his unwavering example," he wrote.</p> <p>"His ultimate message is one of hope, compassion, and resilience! We are all so very proud of you, Frederik. I am so very proud of you! We love you!"</p> <p><em>Images: The POLG Foundation</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

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Meghan Markle shares unseen pics of Harry and Lilibet

<p>Meghan Markle delighted fans on Saturday by sharing a never-before-seen image of her husband, Prince Harry, and their three-year-old daughter, Princess Lilibet, in a touching father-daughter moment.</p> <p>In the photo, Prince Harry can be seen kissing Lilibet’s head as she sits on his lap aboard a boat. The young princess, dressed in a pink T-shirt and floral leggings, is turned away from the camera, her hair styled in a ponytail. Harry, donning a white T-shirt, blue-and-white striped shorts, a backwards blue baseball cap and sunglasses, exudes relaxed fatherly affection in the candid shot.</p> <p>Markle, who shares Lilibet and five-year-old Prince Archie with the Duke of Sussex, posted the image on Instagram in honour of International Women’s Day.</p> <p>“Happy International Women’s Day!” she captioned the image. “Celebrating the strong women around us & the girls with dreams who will become women with vision. Also thanking those who uplift us every day.”</p> <p>The 43-year-old Duchess of Sussex also shared a series of other images, including a sweet moment of Harry embracing her from behind as they strolled along a beach. She also threw in several nostalgic photos with her mother, Doria Ragland – one from her childhood and another from adulthood.</p> <p>Markle’s Instagram post comes shortly after the launch of her new Netflix series, <em>With Love, Meghan</em>. A crew member from the production revealed that Harry, Archie and Lilibet frequently visited Markle on set during filming. The insider also noted Markle’s devotion to her children. “She was super attentive and doting on them. We would give them headphones so they could listen to audio,” they said.</p> <p>Prince Harry even made a surprise cameo in the eight-episode series, which features Markle sharing her passion for cooking, gardening and hosting. In one heartfelt scene, Harry embraces his wife during a group brunch. “Well done! You did a great job,” he tells her before adding, “I love it.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Gene Hackman's cause of death revealed

<p>The cause of death of legendary actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, has finally been confirmed, more than a week after they were <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/sad-new-details-emerge-in-gene-hackman-case" target="_blank" rel="noopener">discovered in their Santa Fe home</a>.</p> <p>The couple was found deceased in their residence on February 26, prompting an investigation by authorities. </p> <p>Dr Heather Jarrell, Chief Medical Examiner for New Mexico, disclosed at a press conference that Hackman succumbed to cardiovascular disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease being a significant contributing factor. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, died around seven days earlier from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare infectious disease contracted through exposure to rodents and their excrement. Authorities found evidence of rodent intrusion in the couple’s home, believed to be the source of Arakawa’s infection.</p> <p>Based on her movements and email communications, Dr Jarrell determined that Arakawa likely passed away on February 11, while Hackman is believed to have died on February 18. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that Hackman was likely at home with his deceased wife for seven days before his own death.</p> <p>Dr Jarrell noted that Hackman was in "very poor health", and it was unclear how he managed in his final days without his wife's assistance. Given his advanced Alzheimer’s, Jarrell suggested that it was possible he was unaware that his wife had passed away.</p> <p>“There was no food in his stomach, which means he had not eaten recently, but he had no evidence of dehydration,” she stated.</p> <p>Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is a severe and often fatal respiratory disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, it begins with flu-like symptoms and rapidly progresses to serious lung and heart complications. The best prevention is avoiding contact with rodents and properly managing rodent-prone areas.</p> <p>Dr Jarrell’s findings confirmed that Hackman had severe heart disease, with evidence of multiple prior heart attacks and chronic high blood pressure. A full-body post-mortem examination showed no signs of trauma. He tested negative for COVID-19, influenza and other respiratory illnesses, as well as hantavirus and carbon monoxide poisoning.</p> <p>Similarly, Arakawa’s autopsy revealed no external or internal trauma. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of hantavirus, ruling it as the cause of her death. Other tests for respiratory viruses and toxins returned negative results.</p> <p>Dr Jarrell said that there were “no other significant natural disease findings” in either case, and that all medications found in the home were taken as prescribed and did not contribute to their deaths.</p> <p>The tragic passing of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa marks the end of an era for Hollywood, with fans mourning the loss of the two-time Academy Award-winning actor. Hackman, known for his roles in <em>The French Connection</em>, <em>Unforgiven </em>and <em>The Royal Tenenbaums</em>, retired from acting in 2004. The couple had been residing in Santa Fe for many years, enjoying a quiet life away from the public eye.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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Meghan Markle shares rare glimpse at Princess Lilibet

<p>Meghan Markle has shared a rare glimpse at her daughter Princess Lilibet spending time with her sports star "Auntie", Serena Williams. </p> <p>The Duchess of Sussex took to Instagram <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #333333; font-family: 'Proxima Nova', system-ui, -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size: 16px;">to share a series of photos and videos of Lilibet playing a game with the tennis star at their home. </span></p> <p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Proxima Nova, system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, Segoe UI, Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Fira Sans, Droid Sans, Helvetica Neue;">"When the aunties comes to celebrate … and to play! Love you @serenawilliams," shared in her stories. </span></p> <p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Proxima Nova, system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, Segoe UI, Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Fira Sans, Droid Sans, Helvetica Neue;">The three-year-old was pictured playing a personalised 'Archie &amp; Lili Candy Land' board game, wearing a long-sleeved top and floral pants, with Serena watching over her. </span></p> <p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Proxima Nova, system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, Segoe UI, Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Fira Sans, Droid Sans, Helvetica Neue;">With the upcoming release of the royal's newest Netflix series, </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Proxima Nova, system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, Segoe UI, Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Fira Sans, Droid Sans, Helvetica Neue;"><em>With Love, Meghan</em>, a series where she holds candid conversations with friends while also sharing "practical how-tos" in the kitchen, garden and more, the royal spent some time with family and friends to celebrate. </span></p> <p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Proxima Nova, system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, Segoe UI, Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Fira Sans, Droid Sans, Helvetica Neue;">"[Three] days until the party begins. All are invited ❤️ @netflix," Meghan shared a follow up Instagram story, with a picture of her embracing Serena. </span></p> <p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Proxima Nova, system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, Segoe UI, Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Fira Sans, Droid Sans, Helvetica Neue;">Williams and the royal first met at the Super Bowl in 2010 and have remained close friends since. </span></p> <p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Proxima Nova, system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, Segoe UI, Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Fira Sans, Droid Sans, Helvetica Neue;">They recently spent time together at the Paley Honours Fall Gala in December of last year. </span></p> <p><em><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Proxima Nova, system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, Segoe UI, Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, Fira Sans, Droid Sans, Helvetica Neue;">Image: Instagram</span></em></p> <p> </p>

Family & Pets

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Princess Diana's former lover opens up in rare interview

<p>Army Major James Hewitt, who had a five-year affair with the late Princess Diana from 1986, has spoken about the royal in a rare television interview with <em>Good Morning Britain </em>on Tuesday. </p> <p>When asked about whether he thinks Diana may have been able to reunite her sons, who have barely spoken in five years, he replied: "I think any mother would be worried and concerned about such a rift, as you put it." </p> <p>"And she'd do her best to try and get them together."</p> <p>Major Hewitt, who now spends his time doing aid work in Ukraine, revealed that the last time he had spoken to the late Princess was  "just after" her <em>BBC Panorama interview </em>with Martin Bashir in November 1995, during which she admitted to their affair.</p> <p>He described the conversation as  "distant" and admitted that the interview did "create problems" for him from which he was "trying to move on".</p> <p>After the affair was revealed, Major Hewitt was labelled as a "love rat" by the tabloid media and found his reputation in ruins. </p> <p>He also said that the interview was "very distressing" for the late Princess, as someone she had trusted had used their connection to make money.</p> <p>"It was a stitch-up job," he said of the <em>Panorama</em> interview. </p> <p> "It was appalling of Bashir to [have] inveigled, lied to her, criminal activity, absolutely appalling."</p> <p>"As I've said, I hate bullies and bullying and arrogant people and I think it's appalling."</p> <p>Major Hewitt, who was Diana's riding instructor at the time, has previously denied claiming to have been a "father figure" to the princes but has said that he "played with them, swam with them, taught them to ride".</p> <p>The Duke of Sussex had also addressed the rumours that Major Hewitt was his biological father in his memoir <em>Spare</em>, saying that he felt the rumours were designed to turn him into a "laughing stock".</p> <p>"One cause of the rumour was Major Hewitt's red hair, but another was sadism," he wrote in his memoir. </p> <p><em>Image: Ken McKay/ITV/ Shutterstock Editorial</em></p> <p> </p>

Relationships

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Prince William’s heartbreaking call after Kate's cancer diagnosis

<p>A former aide to the Prince of Wales has revealed that he was at his "lowest" after his wife Princess Kate was diagnosed with cancer about <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/kate-middleton-reveals-cancer-diagnosis-in-heartfelt-message" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a year ago</a>. </p> <p>In an interview with <em>60 Minutes Australia</em>, Jason Knauf, who was the chief executive of William and Kate’s Royal Foundation, revealed the phone call he shared with the Prince of Wales, after Kate's cancer diagnosis last year. </p> <p>"It was awful, absolutely awful. It's the lowest I've ever seen him.</p> <p>"Within a couple of weeks, if you're Prince William, you find out that both your wife and your father have cancer. I couldn't believe it."</p> <p>Princess Kate is now in <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/kate-middleton-confirms-the-end-of-her-chemotherapy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">remission</a>, while King Charles receives ongoing treatment. </p> <p>The Princess of Wales' diagnosis was made public in March last year, with Knauf recalling: “But the problem was that all this crazy conspiracy theory stuff kicked off in the background, online. ‘Was she really ill?’.</p> <p>“But they didn’t want to say yet that she had cancer because they hadn’t told the children and they were still working through how to tell the children.”</p> <p>Knauf stepped down from his position at the end of 2021. He also previously worked for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as their communications secretary. </p> <p>The Prince of Wales previously told reporters at the end of his visit to South Africa in November last year, that 2024 had been  “the hardest year" of his life. </p> <p>"Honestly? It's been dreadful. It's probably been the hardest year in my life. So, trying to get through everything else and keep everything on track has been really difficult," he told the BBC at the time. </p> <p>“But I’m so proud of my wife, I’m proud of my father, for handling the things that they have done. But from a personal family point of view, it’s been brutal.”</p> <p><em>Image: 60 Minutes/ Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

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Home and Away icon bids farewell after 33 years

<p>In news that has sent shockwaves through lounge rooms across the country, Lynne McGranger, the heart and soul of <em>Home and Away</em>, is preparing to hang up her iconic apron and bid farewell to her beloved character, Irene Roberts.</p> <p>After an impressive 33 years of delivering heartfelt performances, dishing out sage advice and reminding every misbehaving local to "listen here, girlie", McGranger will be making her emotional exit later this year.</p> <p>Seven has promised fans that Irene’s departure will be one for the history books – no, not via the usual dramatic Summer Bay methods of freak storms, runaway cars or inexplicable amnesia, but an “emotional exit” that “cannot be missed”.</p> <p>While details are tightly under wraps, we can only speculate: Will Irene sail off into the sunset? Open a surf club for wayward teens? Or finally take that well-earned break from all the Summer Bay chaos and settle somewhere where people aren’t constantly getting lost at sea?</p> <p>Fans, naturally, have been left reeling. Social media has been flooded with messages of heartbreak, nostalgia and a desperate plea for Irene to return – even if only for a guest appearance or as a ghostly vision (a <em>Home and Away</em> classic).</p> <p>Lynne herself has spoken out about the farewell, calling it “bittersweet” to leave a role that has been not just a job, but a family. "After almost 33 years in my dream role and working every day with people I love, respect and whom I now consider family, it’s bittersweet to be closing the chapter on what has been the best and longest gig of my life,” she said.</p> <p>Ever the class act, Lynne expressed gratitude to the crew, writers and, of course, the fans – those who have stuck by Irene through every high, low and dramatic face-off at the Diner.</p> <p>And let’s not forget Irene’s legendary status. <em>TV Week</em> readers ranked her as the second Greatest Australian TV Character of All Time (although we suspect if the voting had been left solely to <em>Home and Away</em> die-hards, she’d have taken the crown).</p> <p>Julie McGauran, <em>Home and Away</em>’s Executive Producer, summed it up best: “Lynne’s extraordinary portrayal of down-to-earth Irene Roberts is why the character is held with such great affection by fans around the world.”</p> <p>Despite wrapping up filming in March, Irene will still grace our screens for months to come – enough time for fans to prepare themselves emotionally (and stock up on tissues). In the meantime, Lynne will return to the stage with her comedy show, "The Grandparents Club", proving that she has no plans to slow down anytime soon.</p> <p>The farewell will undoubtedly be a tearjerker, but if we know anything about Irene Roberts, she’ll be leaving Summer Bay the same way she lived in it: with heart, humour and a no-nonsense attitude.</p> <p>As one fan put it perfectly, "Now listen here, girlie, you are going to be missed soooo much."</p> <p>And that, as they say, is the bottom line.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

TV

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Meghan Markle shares rare glimpse of Princess Lilibet

<p>Meghan Markle has shared a rare glimpse of her daughter, Princess Lilibet, as she reintroduces her lifestyle brand under a new name – As Ever.</p> <p>Following trademark issues with her original brand name, American Riviera Orchard, the Duchess of Sussex officially confirmed the rebranding in a social media post. Accompanying the announcement, a newly launched website prominently features an image of Meghan and Lilibet walking hand-in-hand through a park, seemingly captured by a drone.</p> <p>This marks the third new image of three-year-old Lilibet shared with the public in just a few months. In December, Prince Harry and Meghan’s private Christmas card included a touching moment of the couple embracing Lilibet and her older brother, Prince Archie, 5. Then, in a tribute video following the passing of Meghan’s beloved rescue Beagle, Guy, fans caught another glimpse of Lilibet in a photo from Meghan’s private album, showing her with Guy in a park. The latest image appears to have been taken on the same day, as Meghan and her daughter are seen wearing similar outfits.</p> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2025/02/LilibetMarkle_Insta.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p>The heartwarming photo aligns with the essence of As Ever, which will offer a variety of products, including Meghan’s homemade jams. In a video accompanying the brand's launch, the Duchess excitedly shared her passion for the venture.</p> <p>“I think we're all clear at this point that jam is my jam, but there are so many more products that I just love and use in my home, and now it’s time to share them with you,” she said. “I can't wait for you to see it.”</p> <p>The name As Ever holds special meaning for Meghan’s followers, as it was originally her signature sign-off on her now-defunct lifestyle blog, The Tig. The phrase later appeared on her podcast, Archetypes, and has now been embraced as the identity of her revived business, which coincides with her reactivated Instagram account.</p> <p>“And if you’ve followed me since 2014 with The Tig, you know I’ve always loved cooking, crafting and gardening,” she explained. “This is what I do, and I haven’t been able to share it with you in the same way for the past few years, but now I can.”</p> <p>As Ever is expected to reflect Meghan’s personal style and passions, much like her previous work on The Tig, with a focus on home and lifestyle products. </p> <p><em>Images: As Ever / Instagram</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Best hotels in Australia revealed

<p>The <a href="https://www.forbestravelguide.com/award-winners" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2025 Forbes Travel Guide</a> has announced the winners of the Star Awards, with nine hotels and experiences in Australia being named in the list.</p> <p>Every property in the running for the awards is visited by highly trained inspectors who provide an evaluation based on up to 900 objective criteria.</p> <p>According to Forbes, the Star Rating system "emphasises service because your experience at a hotel, restaurant or spa goes beyond looks".</p> <p>Over 2000 hotels, experiences, restaurants and cruises were named on the global list, with nine Aussie winners featuring in the prestigious list. </p> <p>The only property in the country to receive a 5-star accommodation rating in the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide was Crown Towers in Perth. </p> <p>Touted as "the pinnacle of Perth luxury", Forbes described the property as "Perth's most extravagant stay. Exuding understated glamour."</p> <p>In the spa category the Crown Spa Perth, which is tucked away in Crown Towers Perth, was awarded 4-stars for its "unbridled opulence".</p> <p>The Darling Sydney has once again received recognition in the Forbes Travel Guide for the ninth consecutive year, while The Darling's "world class" spa was also featured. </p> <p>Check out the list below.</p> <p>9. The Langham - Sydney</p> <p>8. Park Hyatt - Sydney</p> <p>7. Park Hyatt - Melbourne </p> <p>6. Capella - Sydney</p> <p>5. Como The Treasury - Perth</p> <p>4. The Darling Spa - Sydney</p> <p>3. The Darling - Sydney </p> <p>2. Crown Spa - Perth</p> <p>1. Crown Towers - Perth</p> <p><em>Image credits: Crown Hotels</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 16px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; font-family: 'Proxima Nova', system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue'; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; color: #333333;"> </p>

Domestic Travel

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"Why are you attacking my dad?": I'm A Celeb finalist reveals behind-the-scenes heartbreak

<p>The emotional on-air reunion between <em>I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here</em> contestant Matty J and his wife, Laura Byrne, along with their two children, Marlie-Mae and Lola Ellis, was a heartwarming moment <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/abrupt-viewers-stunned-by-i-m-a-celeb-winner-s-reveal" target="_blank" rel="noopener">during Sunday’s finale</a>. However, behind the scenes, Byrne has opened up about the significant challenges she faced while participating in the momentous event.</p> <p>In the lead-up to the finale, Byrne undertook an exhausting journey from Sydney to South Africa with their two young daughters. Speaking on the <em>Life Uncut</em> podcast, she detailed the arduous travel experience, which involved “three separate flights” and 24 hours of transit. “That in itself was really hard," she said. "It was like 24 hours by the time we got door to door. Midnight transfer with two children who were absolutely f***ing ropable.” </p> <p>The long journey was only the beginning of the difficulties though. Upon arrival, Byrne and the children had to share a single room with inadequate sleeping arrangements, all while preparing for a demanding day on set.</p> <p>Byrne also revealed that the experience of managing two young children on a chaotic production set was overwhelming. “I felt like I was the emotional buffer between the children and production … I felt like I’d just been flogged for days. It was hard. It was really hard for me,” she said.</p> <p>During the finale, Matty J and his fellow top three contestants – <em>Big Brother</em> star Reggie Bird and retired NRL player Sam Thaiday – were reunited with their families before participating in the final challenge. While this was an exciting moment for viewers, it was an emotionally challenging experience for the family.</p> <p>Matty J recalled the moment he had to part ways with his children soon after reuniting. “When we had our reunion, it was maybe half an hour I think where we had time together and then they’ve got to pull us apart,” he said. “The kids don’t get it, the kids don’t understand. They’re like, ‘I’ve just met my dad, and then I’ve got to go.’ And then we did that trial where we had to have s**t poured on our heads, and Lola’s in tears being like, ‘Why are you attacking my dad?’”</p> <p>Byrne explained that their children were repeatedly reunited with their father, only to be separated again. This happened three times – during the initial reunion, the final trial and then the announcement of the winner. The constant cycle of emotional reunions and abrupt separations took a toll, particularly on their youngest daughter, Lola.</p> <p>After the winner was announced, Byrne and the children expected Matty J to return home with them, but he was kept on set for several more hours. “They kept Matt on set until 6 o’clock and we went home earlier. And it was so hard on Lola particularly,” Byrne revealed. “And then I had to deal with her big emotions around ‘Why is my daddy not coming home?’ And it felt like this unfair false start.”</p> <p>She admitted that the combination of exhaustion, sleep deprivation and trying to manage the emotional needs of their children made the experience incredibly difficult. Byrne also shared that she had been against Matty J’s participation in the reality show right from the outset. “I wasn’t a supporter of it in the first place,” she admitted, reinforcing that the experience had only confirmed her concerns.</p> <p>Even Matty J himself struggled with the demands of the show. He confessed that he broke down early in his time at camp, an emotional moment that wasn’t shown on TV. “I just burst out crying, and I was like, ‘I f**king cannot do this,’” he recalled, explaining that a moment of solitude while washing dishes left him questioning his decision. “What have I f**king done? This is a nightmare.”</p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">It appears that, for the Byrne-Johnson family, what seemed like a joyful televised reunion was, in reality, a deeply exhausting and emotional ordeal.</span></p> <p><em>Images: Network 10</em></p>

TV

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Dave Hughes reveals I’m A Celeb weight loss

<p>Dave Hughes spent 25 days in the jungle for this year's season of<em> I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! </em>and despite being eliminated, his three-and-a-half weeks of camp life had a staggering effect on his body.</p> <p>“I lost eight kilos and I’m stronger now than when I went in there,” he told <em>news.com.au</em>.</p> <p>He explained that when he first joined the show he struggled to do laborious tasks like carrying a crate of firewood back to camp without assistance.</p> <p>“I’d be holding one side of the crate while my fingers almost snapped off, with another burly bloke like (former NRL player) Sam Thaiday on the other side,” he said.</p> <p>“But by the end of the month, I’m carrying the whole crate on my own. My fingers are loving the task. I’m just living my best life.”</p> <p>He also made progress in the "jungle gym" a workout station contestants could use to keep fit. </p> <p>“There was a bench press there and on the first day, the heaviest weights, I could do 20 (reps). On the day I got kicked out, I did 52," he said. </p> <p>“Sam (Thaiday) says I now look like a pregnant greyhound … I think that’s a compliment, so I’m happy," he said. </p> <p><em>Image: I'm A Celeb/ news.com.au</em></p>

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