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National Duck Day: Diana Chan's Luv-a-Duck Seared Duck breast with nashi pears, honey and star anise

<p dir="ltr">The family owned business and Australia’s leading duck producer Luv-a-Duck has partnered up with MasterChef alum and duck lover Diana Chan, to officially launch National Duck Day, which falls on Tuesday May 23rd, 2023. </p> <p dir="ltr">Diana Chan is a Malaysian-Australian and won the 9th season of MasterChef in 2017. She has since become a well-known TV host, menu designer, product creator and restaurateur, turning her passion for food into her career.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Duck </span>breast with nashi pears, honey and star recipe</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Serves:</strong> 2</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Prep time:</strong> 10 mins </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Cook time: </strong>45 mins</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong> INGREDIENTS: </strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">2 x Luv-A-Duck raw duck breasts </p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Salt to taste </p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>For the roasted pears: </strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">2 nashi pears, halved and cored 2 tbsp honey</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Juice of 1 lemon</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">4 whole star anise pods </p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 tbsp dry vermouth or dry white wine </p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Garnish:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Micro herbs </p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>METHOD: </strong></p> <ol> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Preheat the oven to 180C. Cut 4 pieces of baking paper and aluminium foil enough to cover the pears. </p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Dip the cut side of the pear in lemon juice (to prevent browning). </p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Place 1 star anise in the cored center of each pear. Drizzle 1 tablespoon honey over each star anise.Place a pear half, cut side up, on each piece of baking paper. And wrap with foil on the outside to cover. Twist the foil tightly around the top of each fruit to seal. </p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Place the pears on a baking tray and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the pears are tender. Remove from the oven and carefully unwrap each pear half. </p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">To cook the duck, make a few slits diagonally on the skin of the duck breasts about 2 cm apart. Be careful to not slice into the meat. Season liberally with salt. In a cold pan, add in the duck breasts skin side down and cook for 10-12 minutes to render the fat on low heat. Gradually turn the heat up from low to high. Turn the duck breast over and cook for another 5 minutes. Allow the duck breasts to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. </p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Add the liquid from the pears into the pan with all the duck fat and juices and mix to combine over low heat. </p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">To assemble, slice each duck breast into three pieces diagonally. Place on a serving plate with the pears and drizzle over the pan juices over the duck.</p> </li> </ol> <p><em>Image credit: </em><em><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Luv-a-Duck</span></em></p>

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National Duck Day: Diana Chan’s Luv-a-Duck Peking Duck breast with egg noodles, five spice sauce and fresh cucumber salad

<p dir="ltr">The family owned business and Australia’s leading duck producer Luv-a-Duck has partnered up with MasterChef alum and duck lover Diana Chan, to officially launch National Duck Day, which falls on Tuesday May 23rd, 2023. </p> <p dir="ltr">Diana Chan is a Malaysian-Australian and won the 9th season of MasterChef in 2017. She has since become a well-known TV host, menu designer, product creator and restaurateur, turning her passion for food into her career.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Diana Chan’s Luv-a-Duck Peking Duck breast with egg noodles, five spice sauce and fresh cucumber salad</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Serves:</strong> 2</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Prep time: </strong>10 mins</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Cook time:</strong> 10 mins</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>INGREDIENTS:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">2 x precooked Luv-A Duck peking duck breasts</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 x 400g packet fresh egg noodles (medium thickness)</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>For the five spice sauce:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 tbsp cooking oil</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">2 cloves garlic, minced</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">3 shallots, finely diced</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">50g galangal, sliced</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">50g ginger, sliced</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Leftover liquid from the packet</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 tbsp five spice powder</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 tbsp tapioca starch mixed with 2 tbsp of water</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>For the cucumber salad:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 continental cucumber, halved and sliced into 5mm thick chunks</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">30g coriander, roughly chopped</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 tbsp black vinegar</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 tsp sugar</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 tbsp soy sauce</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>To garnish:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Freshly sliced spring onions</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 tsp toasted sesame seeds</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>METHOD:</strong></p> <ol> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Cook the peking duck breasts according to the packet instructions (microwave or oven) and set aside somewhere warm.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Preheat a large braising pot or wok. Add cooking oil. Add the garlic, shallots, galangal and ginger and fry until aromatic - about 3 minutes or so. Add the sauce from the packet and the five spice. Allow to reduce for 10 minutes.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Mix tapioca starch with water. Pour it into the sauce liquid while stirring at the same time and the liquid will start to thicken. You can add more tapioca mixture if you don't think the sauce  is thick enough.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">While the sauce simmers, reheat the noodles according to the packet instructions.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">To assemble, remove the cooked duck breasts from the packet and slice them into 5mm thickness.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">In a mixing bowl, add in all the ingredients for the cucumber salad and mix to combine.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Place the reduced sauce into the serving bowls, divide the noodles into 2 portions, top with the duck breasts and pour over the sauce. Serve with the cucumber salad on the side. Garnish with some spring onions and sesame seeds.</p> </li> </ol> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credit: Luv-A-Duck</em></p>

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National Duck Day: Diana Chan’s Luv-a-Duck whole roasted duck with a cinnamon and orange glaze

<p dir="ltr">The family owned business and Australia’s leading duck producer Luv-a-Duck has partnered up with MasterChef alum and duck lover Diana Chan, to officially launch National Duck Day, which falls on Tuesday May 23rd, 2023. </p> <p dir="ltr">Diana Chan is a Malaysian-Australian and won the 9th season of MasterChef in 2017. She has since become a well-known TV host, menu designer, product creator and restaurateur, turning her passion for food into her career.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Diana Chan’s Luv-a-Duck whole roasted duck with a cinnamon and orange glaze</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Serves:</strong> 6-8</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Prep time:</strong> 20 mins</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Cook time:</strong> Approximately 3 hours</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>INGREDIENTS:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 x Luv-A Duck whole duck</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 lemon, sliced into wheels</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">5 cloves of garlic, chopped</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">2 cinnamon quill</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Cooking salt to rub</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>For the cinnamon and orange glaze:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">½ cup balsamic vinegar</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">¼ cup honey</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Juice of ½ a lemon</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Juice of 1 whole orange</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Pinch of salt</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1 tsp ground cinnamon</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Buttered greens:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">200g green beans, blanched in boiling water</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">2 garlic cloves minced</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">50g butter</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Pinch of salt and pepper</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>To garnish:</strong></p> <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Freshly chopped coriander</p> </li> </ul> <p dir="ltr"><strong>METHOD: </strong></p> <ol> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Preheat the oven to 180C.  </p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">To prepare the duck, remove the giblets from inside the duck. Rinse the duck, inside and outside, with cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Set the duck on the working surface. Score the duck's skin on the breast in a diamond pattern, making sure you only cut the skin, without reaching the meat. Poke the other fatty parts of the duck with the tip of the knife all over, to ensure fat releases. Season the duck very generously with salt both inside the cavity of the duck and outside on the skin, legs, all over. Place the duck breast side up.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Put the chopped garlic, sliced lemons and cinnamon quills inside the duck cavity (NB:these are just for flavor, not for eating - you will discard them after cooking). The duck will have flapping skin on both ends - fold that skin inwards, to hold the garlic and lemon inside. Tie up the duck legs with butcher's twine.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Place the duck breast side up on a large roasting pan with a rack within  (roasting pan should have a roasting rack to lift the duck from the bottom of the pan and allow the fat to drip below the duck).</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Roast the duck, breast side up, for 1 hour at 180C.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">After 1 hour of roasting, flip the duck on its breast and roast it breast side down (roast the other side) for 40 minutes at the same temperature.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Remove the roasting pan with the duck from the oven and carefully pour off all the duck fat juices from the roasting pan into a large glass or metal bowl.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Flip the duck, breast side up again, and place back on the rack in the roasting pan.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Add to the bowl with the juices from the duck fat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice with the freshly squeezed juice of 1 orange.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Brush all over the duck with the balsamic mixture and cook the duck, breast side up for another 40-50 minutes at 180C, brushing every 10 minutes with the mixture.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">You can carefully use the grill function in the oven to crisp up the duck skin for the last 10-15 minutes (do it carefully, checking the duck regularly to make sure it doesn't burn).</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">In the meantime, prepare to cook the beans. Using a pan over medium heat, add in the butter. Once melted add in the garlic and toss for a few seconds before adding in the beans to coat through.</p> </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">After the duck is cooked, remove it from the oven, let the duck stand for 15 minutes. Then, carefully remove and discard the lemon from the cavity (being careful not to get burned). Carve the duck and serve with the beans as a side.</p> </li> </ol> <p><em>Image credit: Luv-a-Duck</em></p>

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Ian Thorpe breaks silence after ex’s death

<p>Ian Thorpe has finally broken his silence two weeks after his ex-boyfriend Ryan Channing passed away. </p> <p>The 32-year-old was battling several health issues while on holiday at Bali and was rushed to hospital after fainting from an overdose of prescription medication. </p> <p>Doctors were unsuccessful in reviving Channing, who died on May 8 at Bali’s BIMC Hospital.</p> <p>The skincare entrepreneur was Thorpe’s first boyfriend after he came out back in 2015 - and he has since spoken about his tragic death.</p> <p>“This is a relationship that I had that was a long-term relationship and I feel for Ryan’s family,” Thorpe told <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/ian-thorpe-speaks-for-first-time-since-former-longterm-partner-ryan-channings-death/news-story/9e20b734491ad7f27b59d98dc33ba18a" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a>.</p> <p>“I hope people are able to respect their privacy as well. I think when it is someone that is so young, it is tragic for anyone to see them passing at that kind of age.”</p> <p>The pair were in an on-off relationship for about four years and were also engaged at one point before breaking it off completely in 2019. </p> <p>Channing’s mother Joy spent the last two days next to her son in hospital and issued a statement thanking everyone for their support.</p> <p>“Thank you to everyone for the overwhelming love and support you have shown to us through this tragic time in our lives,” she wrote on Instagram.</p> <p>“We are still in Bali but hope to be able to home (sic) soon.”</p> <p>Channing’s skincare company The Blaq Group also issued a statement at the time of his death remembering him for his “fun spirit”.</p> <p>“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that The Blaq Group founder, Ryan Channing, has passed away at the age of 32,” the tribute began.</p> <p>“Ryan had been battling with health issues over the past few months and died in hospital after being taken suddenly ill on Sunday May 8th whilst on holidays in Bali."</p> <p>“His inspiration led to the creation of highly regarded skincare brands, Flight Mode and Generation Skin as well as the flagship brand Blaq which strives to empower equality through its distinctive messages of acceptance and inclusivity.</p> <p>“His fun and loving spirit will be missed by all.</p> <p>“Rest In Peace, Ryan Channing.</p> <p>“August 31st 1989 - May 8th 2022.”</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Ryan Channing's cause of death revealed

<p dir="ltr">Ian Thorpe’s ex-boyfriend Ryan Channing’s cause of death has been finally revealed by Indonesian authorities. </p> <p dir="ltr">Ryan Channing, a model, lawyer and skincare brand creator from Perth, was at Bali’s BIMC Hospital on <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/ian-thorpe-s-ex-boyfriend-dies" target="_blank" rel="noopener">May 8 when he died</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 32-year-old was battling several health issues on the holiday island and was rushed to hospital after fainting due to “overdose of prescription medication”. </p> <p dir="ltr">Doctors spent two days trying to save his life but were unsuccessful. </p> <p dir="ltr">His body is expected to arrive in Perth on Friday on a repatriation flight from Indonesia with the funeral to be held next week.</p> <p dir="ltr">Channing’s mother Joy spent the last two days next to her son in hospital and issued a statement thanking everyone for their support.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Thank you to everyone for the overwhelming love and support you have shown to us through this tragic time in our lives,” she wrote on Instagram.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We are still in Bali but hope to be able to home (sic) soon.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Channing’s skincare company The Blaq Group also <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/ian-thorpe-s-ex-boyfriend-s-family-responds-to-vile-rumours" target="_blank" rel="noopener">issued a statement</a> at the time of his death remembering him for his “fun spirit”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that The Blaq Group founder, Ryan Channing, has passed away at the age of 32,” the tribute began.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Ryan had been battling with health issues over the past few months and died in hospital after being taken suddenly ill on Sunday May 8th whilst on holidays in Bali."</p> <p dir="ltr">“His inspiration led to the creation of highly regarded skincare brands, Flight Mode and Generation Skin as well as the flagship brand Blaq which strives to empower equality through its distinctive messages of acceptance and inclusivity.</p> <p dir="ltr">“His fun and loving spirit will be missed by all.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Rest In Peace, Ryan Channing.</p> <p dir="ltr">“August 31st 1989 - May 8th 2022.”</p> <p dir="ltr">A representative for Ian Thorpe said ​​“thoughts are with Ryan’s family” when news of his death broke. </p> <p dir="ltr">The skincare entrepreneur was Thorpe’s first boyfriend after he came out back in 2015.</p> <p dir="ltr">The pair were in an on-off relationship for about four years and were also engaged at one point before breaking it off completely in 2019. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Ian Thorpe’s ex-boyfriend’s family responds to vile rumours

<p>A close relative of Ian Thorpe’s ex-boyfriend Ryan Channing has slammed vile rumours claiming that the 32-year-old had HIV when he suddenly passed away in Bali.</p> <p>The only detail his family have confirmed pertaining to his passing is that it was not the result of Covid, although he was hospitalised in Sydney with the virus eight weeks ago.</p> <p>His skincare company, The Blaq Group, confirmed that Channing had been battling health issues for a few months prior to his death, but the nature of those issues remains unknown.</p> <p>Trolls took to Channing's Instagram page overnight on Wednesday to spread unverified rumours that he took his own life, and that he had the HIV virus.</p> <p>But Abbey Channing, a young relative, hit back - politely asking people not to “make assumptions about somebody's death”.</p> <p>The Blaq Group posted an emotional tribute on Thursday, remembering the 32-year-old for his “fun loving spirit”.</p> <p>“It is with heavy heart that we share the news that The Blaq Group founder, Ryan Channing, has passed away at the age of 32,” the tribute began.</p> <p>“Ryan had been battling with health issues over the past few months and died in hospital after being taken suddenly ill on Sunday May 8th whilst on holidays in Bali."</p> <p>“His inspiration led to the creation of highly regarded skincare brands, Flight Mode and Generation Skin as well as the flagship brand Blaq which strives to empower equality through its distinctive messages of acceptance and inclusivity.</p> <p>“His fun and loving spirit will be missed by all.</p> <p>“Rest In Peace, Ryan Channing.</p> <p>“August 31st 1989 - May 8th 2022.”</p> <p>A friend has shared that Channing, had been “battling health issues for some time”.</p> <p>Channing was the first long term boyfriend of former Olympic swimming champion Thorpe after coming out as gay and the two were in an on-again, off-again relationship for four years until they split for good in 2019.</p> <p>Channing's last Instagram post was a photo from Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital eight weeks ago after testing positive to the virus.</p> <p>A representative for Thorpe said his thoughts were with Ryan's family.</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

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Ian Thorpe’s ex boyfriend dies

<p dir="ltr">Ian Thorpe’s first boyfriend after coming out has died after battling severe health issues.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ryan Channing, a model, lawyer and skincare brand creator from Perth, was at Bali’s BIMC Hospital on May 8 where he died.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 32-year-old’s friends confirmed the heartbreaking news to <a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/former-fiance-of-olympic-swimmer-ian-thorpe-ryan-channing-dies-suddenly-in-bali/news-story/15ee73f749abe38b31d10e1b140b7937" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a> on Wednesday.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Everyone is distraught. It is just so sad and everyone is shocked,” a friend told the publication.</p> <p dir="ltr">The friend revealed that Channing had been “battling health issues” for a while.  </p> <p dir="ltr">Channing’s last Instagram post was of him at St Vincent’s Hospital after contracting Covid-19.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Covid got me GEWD. Thanks to the amazing nurses at @stvincentshospitalsydney,” his caption read with a selfie holding up the peace sign.</p> <p dir="ltr">It however remains unclear whether or not Covid contributed to his death.</p> <p dir="ltr">A representative for Ian Thorpe said ​​“thoughts are with Ryan’s family”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The skincare entrepreneur was Thorpe’s first boyfriend after he came out back in 2015.</p> <p dir="ltr">The pair were in an on-off relationship for about four years and were also engaged at one point before breaking it off completely in 2019. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Ian Thorpe’s ex-boyfriend reveals the real reason the couple split

<p>Ian Thorpe’s ex-boyfriend, Ryan Channing, has revealed the reason he and the Olympian split up now that he’s planning to raise a child without him.</p> <p>Speaking to <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.who.com.au/" target="_blank"><em>Who</em></a>, he revealed that he will be welcoming a child of his own with the help of a surrogate.</p> <p>“It’s going ahead without Ian … [I’d love to] have a little boy,” said the 29-year-old.</p> <p>Channing, who says he is “halfway through the fertility process” is preparing himself for fatherhood.</p> <p>“I’m just about to choose my surrogate. I’m really excited to bring a child into the world next year,” he said.</p> <p>The former model and entrepreneur spoke candidly about his relationship with Thorpe, slamming claims that the reason for their split was because he had changed his mind about starting a family.</p> <p>“There has been talk Ian wasn’t ready for a family. I can’t comment on his behalf, but that was never a discussion as to why we were separating,” he said.</p> <p>“It was more around the busy lifestyles we lead now and the fact it was hard to manage the relationship with the travel schedules we have.”</p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BMu-lsdA3cB/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BMu-lsdA3cB/" target="_blank">IT'S // TIME 👭👫👬</a></p> <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 post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/ryanchanning/" target="_blank"> RYAN CHANNING</a> (@ryanchanning) on Nov 12, 2016 at 6:44pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The couple began dating in early 2015 and were together for four years. In January 2019, the pair had told the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/auhome/index.html" target="_blank"><em>Daily Mail</em></a> that they were ready to take the next step in their relationship and start a family together.</p> <p>“We’re talking about it and have for a while, but it’s still early days,” said Thorpe at the time. “We decided to visit the clinic in LA – it’s all part of the plan at this stage.”</p> <p>Channing felt the same way and was optimistic about having children.</p> <p>“Becoming parents is something that Ian and myself would love to make happen,” said Channing.</p> <p>The couple announced their split in late June.</p> <p>Confirming the news to the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/" target="_blank"><em>Daily Telegraph</em></a>, Channing revealed that they had chosen to go their separate ways.</p> <p>“Yes the rumours are true, we have parted ways,” he told the publication. “It has all been very amicable. We have stayed friends. We have just gone our separate ways.”</p>

Relationships

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"We've parted ways": Ian Thorpe splits from boyfriend Ryan Channing

<p>Olympic swimmer Ian Thorpe has officially split with his model boyfriend Ryan Channing..</p> <p>29-year-old Ryan confirmed to <em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/busy-lives-lead-to-ian-thorpe-and-boyfriend-ryan-channing-splitting/news-story/c3bc0058498c9d4c87c6b352f4ae9803" target="_blank">The</a> </em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/busy-lives-lead-to-ian-thorpe-and-boyfriend-ryan-channing-splitting/news-story/c3bc0058498c9d4c87c6b352f4ae9803" target="_blank"><em>Daily Telegraph</em></a> on Saturday night they’d had a friendly parting.</p> <p>“Yes, the rumours are true, we have parted ways. It has all been very amicable. We have stayed friends,” he said.</p> <p>He also explained he had moved out of the home he once shared with the 36-year-old award winning Olympian.</p> <p>“We have just gone our separate ways. I have moved out,” he said.</p> <p>The reason for their split is they had both become so busy so “it is really not the same as it was before,” Ryan explained.</p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bs4LC88Fx5p/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bs4LC88Fx5p/" target="_blank">Umm Sydney - we came back for the warmer weather 😭</a></p> <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 post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/ryanchanning/" target="_blank"> RYAN CHANNING</a> (@ryanchanning) on Jan 20, 2019 at 5:11pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Rumours sparked early last week when it was discovered that Ryan had unfollowed Ian on social media and had not posted pictures with him since January 21.</p> <p>The couple had told the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-7195715/Model-Ryan-Channing-CONFIRMS-split-Olympic-champion-boyfriend-Ian-Thorpe.html" target="_blank"><em>Daily Mail</em></a> that they were planning to share a child together with the help of a surrogate located in the United States.</p> <p>Ian had explained both he and Ryan were in the process of becoming parents after a picture of the two at a reproductive clinic in Beverly Hills was posted to social media.</p> <p>“We're talking about it and have for a while, but it's still early days,” Ian said at the time.</p> <p>“We decided to visit the clinic in LA - it's all part of the plan at this stage.”</p>

Family & Pets

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Ian Thorpe's exciting baby news

<p>Ian Thorpe and his partner Ryan Channing have decided to become new parents. The former Olympian and his partner were recently spotted at a fertility clinic in LA.</p> <p>As Channing, 28 and Thorpe, 36, have been dating for three years, the pair felt like this was the natural next step.</p> <p>Thorpe revealed to <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-6601561/Ian-Thorpe-planning-father-U-S-surrogate.html"><em>The</em><span> </span><em>Daily Mail</em></a>: <span>"We're talking about it and have for a while, but it's still early days. </span></p> <p>"Yes, we decided to visit the clinic in LA – it's all part of the plan at this stage," he said.</p> <p>Channing explained why they had decided to go with a clinic in LA instead of Australia.</p> <p>"Becoming parents is something that Ian and myself would love to make happen," he said.</p> <p>"Unfortunately the laws in Australia are difficult for same sex males in regards to surrogacy – California state law has really progressed in this space which makes it the best option legally."</p> <p>Channing added, “[It's] something I would love to see progress further in Australia so same sex couples don't have to trouble abroad to achieve their family goals.”</p> <blockquote 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);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BjEm-30nv1_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BjEm-30nv1_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" target="_blank">We met nearly three years ago.... since then we haven’t spent more than a week apart. Today marks two weeks apart. Miss you IT 💟😍</a></p> <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 post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/ryanchanning/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" target="_blank"> ⚡️ RYAN CHANNING</a> (@ryanchanning) on May 22, 2018 at 12:52am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Thorpe revealed to<span> </span><em>Woman’s Day</em><span> </span>in 2017 that his next goal in life is to become a father.</p> <p>“I've always wanted to have a family – a family of my own,” he revealed.</p> <p>“I've loved being an uncle and I would love being a father as well."</p> <p>The Olympian came out as gay in 2014 during an exclusive interview with legendary talk-show host Michael Parkinson, after years of speculation and fending off rumours about his sexuality.</p>

Family & Pets

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Inside Ian Thorpe’s new $2.75m Sydney home

<p>Australian former swimming champ Ian Thorpe has just secured a new home in the exclusive Sydney suburb of Woollahra, forking out $2.75 million for a luxury three-bedroom townhouse.</p> <p>The 215sqm property will be home to Thorpe, his partner Ryan Channing and their adorable new family member, a puppy named Kaia.</p> <blockquote 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: 658px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media"> <div style="padding: 8px;"> <div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;"> <div style="background: url(data:image/png; base64,ivborw0kggoaaaansuheugaaacwaaaascamaaaapwqozaaaabgdbtueaalgpc/xhbqaaaafzukdcak7ohokaaaamuexurczmzpf399fx1+bm5mzy9amaaadisurbvdjlvzxbesmgces5/p8/t9furvcrmu73jwlzosgsiizurcjo/ad+eqjjb4hv8bft+idpqocx1wjosbfhh2xssxeiyn3uli/6mnree07uiwjev8ueowds88ly97kqytlijkktuybbruayvh5wohixmpi5we58ek028czwyuqdlkpg1bkb4nnm+veanfhqn1k4+gpt6ugqcvu2h2ovuif/gwufyy8owepdyzsa3avcqpvovvzzz2vtnn2wu8qzvjddeto90gsy9mvlqtgysy231mxry6i2ggqjrty0l8fxcxfcbbhwrsyyaaaaaelftksuqmcc); display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;"></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/Be9EkcdA4VH/" target="_blank">A post shared by RYAN | CHANNING (@ryanchanning)</a> on Feb 8, 2018 at 3:31pm PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Purchased off-market from a couple who had only owned the townhouse for less than a year, the home marks a return to the city for Thorpe, who has previously owned properties in the Sutherland Shire and Thirroul.</p> <p>To see inside the stunning house, <strong>scroll through the gallery above</strong>. And before you ask, yes, there’s a pool!</p> <p><em>Image credit: Ryan Channing/Instagram and Bradfield Cleary.</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Grease star Stockard Channing, 73, looks unrecognisable

<p>She’s known to this day for her bad girl performance in one of the most iconic musical films of all time.</p> <p>But Stockard Channing, who played rebellious Betty Rizzo in 1978 film <em>Grease,</em> looked unrecognisable when she made a rare appearance on UK TV show <em>Lorraine</em> on Tuesday morning.</p> <p><img width="389" height="529" src="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2017/10/17/11/456A675A00000578-4987868-image-m-2_1508234630909.jpg" alt="Surprised: Fans took to the social network to question what the actress, 73, had to done to her face, while some defended the talented actress" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" id="i-5512a7a072b803a3"/></p> <p>Fans were quick to take to social media to call out the 73-year-old actress' new look.</p> <p>“Oh my god what has Rizzo done to herself”' one shocked viewer questioned, while another wrote: “Shocked at how Stockard Channing looked on Lorraine. Why do they mess with plastic surgeons?”</p> <p><img width="392" height="469" src="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2017/10/17/11/456A67C500000578-4987868-image-a-20_1508237158183.jpg" alt="'It's great but it was such a long time ago', Stockard told Lorraine on still being recognised for her role in Grease" class="blkBorder img-share b-loaded" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" id="i-8dbf88a77ba953f6"/></p> <p>The actress was speaking about her role on <em>Grease,</em> 40 years after the hit film aired.</p> <p>Although she appeared in many films after <em>Grease,</em> she admitted she is most remembered for her role as Rizzo in the musical. </p>

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