When James Lee Williams, known to millions as The Vivienne, strutted across the stage of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, fans saw fierce makeup, glamour, and talent. But behind the glitz was a private battle that few, including his closest loved ones, knew about.

James, a beloved drag performer, actor, and mainstream entertainer, passed away in January at just 32. The cause of death was revealed by his family as cardiac arrest due to ketamine usage. The news shocked fans and devastated those closest to him, especially his sister, Chanel Williams.

In an emotional interview with BBC Newsnight, Chanel opened up about the heartbreaking truth: the family only learnt about James’s ketamine addiction after watching his confession on Drag Race UK. He had hidden the depths of his struggle to “protect them,” even during the most difficult periods of his life.

“He had a really long period of sobriety,” Chanel said, recalling her brother’s journey. “But we didn’t know about the relapse. We only found out after his death. It breaks my heart wondering—if I had asked more questions, noticed something—could the outcome have been different?”

The Vivienne had been vocal during his stint on Drag Race UK in 2019 about overcoming ketamine addiction. It was a powerful moment—one that resonated with many viewers and earned praise for its openness. But behind the scenes, James was battling in silence.

Chanel believes that very openness created an invisible barrier. “He’d spoken so publicly about having overcome it that going back and saying, ‘I’m struggling again,’ must have felt impossible,” she reflected. “He was at the top of his game—TV shows, West End performances. The pressure to appear okay must have been enormous.”

His tragic death, which occurred in Chorlton-by-Backford near Chester, is now a catalyst for a greater mission. Chanel and her family have turned their grief into a campaign for awareness, working closely with substance abuse charity Adferiad. Their goal is to shed light on ketamine addiction and reduce the stigma that too often silences those suffering.

The Hidden Battle of The Vivienne: A Story of Fame

A full inquest into James’s death is scheduled for June, but his family isn’t waiting to spark change. One of the bold steps they are advocating for is the reclassification of ketamine from a Class B to a Class A drug, which would place it alongside substances like heroin and cocaine in the UK’s legal system.

“Right now, it’s cheap, it’s easy to get, and it’s perceived as less dangerous than it really is,” Chanel warned. “Some younger people see the classification and think it’s harmless. But we know now how devastating it can be.”

The Home Office has acknowledged the growing concern around ketamine use, especially among youth. Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson has already reached out to the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs for recommendations. A spokesperson extended condolences to The Vivienne’s family and reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the issue.

For Chanel, however, this isn’t just about reclassification—it’s about culture. “We need more than legislation,” she said. “We need education, we need healthcare involvement, and we need to create spaces where people can speak without shame.”

Sharing James’s story hasn’t been easy for the family. Talking about his death and the reason behind it came after long and difficult conversations. But ultimately, they chose to speak out with the hope that someone else’s story might end differently.

“Talking about this openly might help one person reach out for help before it’s too late,” Chanel said. “That’s the only thing keeping us going right now—that something good can come out of this tragedy.”

James Lee Williams left behind a powerful legacy as The Vivienne. He was more than a drag superstar—he was a pioneer, an artist, and a symbol of strength in the LGBTQ+ community. But his family hopes that his legacy will now include something even more impactful: saving lives.

“The Vivienne was a trailblazer,” Chanel said. “But James—my brother—was a kind, beautiful soul who wanted to help others. I believe that even in death, he can still do that.”

In the face of loss, Chanel and her family are channelling their pain into purpose. Their mission is not just to remember James but to protect others from suffering the same fate. And through their advocacy, honesty, and resilience, they are doing just that.

As Chanel put it simply, “If I can help one family to not feel what we are feeling, then it’s all worth it.”

LOS ANGELES, CA – Deborah Mesa’s artistic journey began on the stages of Havana, where she first performed at age four with the renowned children’s theatre company Cascabel. Surrounded by costumes, scripts, and the rhythm of live performance, she found her calling early—and never looked back.

By eight, she made her television debut in Los Pequeñines, originally cast as background but quickly promoted to a lead role when directors Roly Peña and Jean Michel Fernández recognized her natural charisma and deep familiarity with the material. It was a pivotal moment that foreshadowed a career defined by preparation, presence, and persistence.

Mesa’s foundation in the craft was shaped under the guidance of the legendary Cuban acting coach Humberto Rodríguez at the Olga Alonso Group, where she studied alongside some of the country’s top emerging talent. By 11, she was performing as Juliet in Romeo and Juliet. At 12, she was cast as Patricia in the TV series Flores con Patricia.

At 14, Deborah earned a highly competitive spot at Cuba’s Escuela Nacional de Arte (ENA), one of the nation’s premier institutions for performing arts. But just two years later, her family relocated to the United States. Still a teenager, she left behind a promising career and began again this time in Miami.

Determined to continue her training, Deborah studied at Prometeo Theater while attending high school. She then set her sights on Los Angeles, enrolling at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where she immersed herself in English-language performance, from Shakespeare to contemporary American drama.

Now based in LA, Mesa is steadily building a multifaceted career across film, television, commercials, and voice-over. Her credits include lead roles in The Delivery, Everything I Need, and La Conducta de la Vida, as well as standout performances in commercials and animated projects. She is bilingual, trained in stage combat and dance (salsa, tango, Afro-dance), and certified in open water scuba diving—adding depth and versatility to her on-screen presence.

With a new television pilot filming this spring and a growing body of work, Deborah Mesa represents a bold new voice in international talent, grounded in discipline, elevated by experience, and driven by a vision that continues to unfold. Follow her journey on Instagram @deborah_mesa96 with exciting projects ahead.

Her dream of earning an Oscar isn’t wishful thinking. It’s the natural evolution of a career built on craft, resilience, and the fearless pursuit of excellence.

If you missed the first weekend of Coachella, fear not. The festival’s second act is ready to stream straight to your couch. With the winds still blowing in the Colorado Desert and the stars returning for round two, Coachella’s encore promises fresh surprises, repeat thrills, and maybe even a few viral moments.

From jaw-dropping pop theatrics to understated indie gems, here are the standout sets you’ll want to catch (or rewatch) from the comfort of your home.

Lady Gaga: Pop’s Dark Opera

Lady Gaga’s return to Coachella was a thunderous reminder of her unmatched performance prowess. Her show was a cinematic journey set inside a crumbling gothic opera house, with visuals that evoked angels, demons, and internal chaos.

Poker Face became a chess match of alter-egos, while Perfect Celebrity—her raw commentary on fame—was staged as a burial duet with a skeleton. It was weird, wonderful, and peak Gaga. The climactic Bad Romance brought the house down in a nine-minute celebratory rave. If you’re only watching one set, this is the one.

Missy Elliott: A Long-Awaited Victory Lap

Missy Elliott made her long-overdue Coachella debut look effortless. Arriving onstage in a giant car-like exoskeleton, she stormed through her genre-bending catalogue with sharp moves and unshakable charisma. Hits like Get Ur Freak On and Pass That Dutch reminded everyone why she’s a legend.

With choreography that could rival acts half her age, Missy proved she doesn’t need decades of live performance experience to command a festival crowd. The only complaint? Her set ended far too soon.

Lola Young: Grit Meets Grace

Lola Young almost didn’t make it through her weekend one set. Battling heatstroke and flu, she warned the audience she might faint or throw up. Instead, she delivered one of the rawest performances of the festival.

Messy, her break-up anthem turned global hit, brought the crowd to life. With her health reportedly back on track, her weekend two appearance is expected to be even stronger—and maybe the redemption arc she deserves.

Green Day: Pure Punk Catharsis

Coachella met its match in Green Day. Billie Joe Armstrong led the band through a no-holds-barred blitz of their greatest hits, with American Idiot updated to poke at contemporary politics. Still, the set stayed mostly free of soapboxes, focusing instead on energy, nostalgia, and crowd connection.

From the bratty energy of Basket Case to the anthemic depth of Boulevard of Broken Dreams, it was a welcome dose of punk rebellion in a glitter-drenched festival.

Post Malone: The Country-Rap Fusion Party

Post Malone brought yee-haw energy to Coachella, repackaging early hits with the country flair of his latest album, F-1 Trillion. It was laid-back, quirky, and honest—exactly what fans have come to expect from him.

Though some missed the harder hip-hop beats, his fans still partied like it was the end of the world. And with no guests on weekend one, there’s buzz that Post might bring out big names for weekend two. With collaborators like Taylor Swift and Dolly Parton in his orbit, expectations are sky-high.

Couchella 2025: The Must-See Sets to Stream from

Jennie & Lisa: Blackpink Goes Solo

Blackpink’s legacy lives on through its stars. Lisa wowed with sharp choreography and sleek visuals, blending gritty rap with softer ballads. Her solo moment solidified her as a standalone force.

Jennie, meanwhile, turned the Outdoor Theatre into a full-on disco club. Like Jennie and Love Hangover got the crowd dancing, while her relaxed stage vibe made her feel refreshingly real in a sea of polished perfection. For fans of the group or pop lovers in general, both sets are worth the time.

Charli XCX: Brat Energy Unleashed

If Coachella had a dancefloor, Charli XCX set it ablaze. Her set was a nonstop rush of hedonistic beats, slick choreography, and laser lights—all delivered solo, until she wasn’t. Halfway through, the Brat era super-team of Troye Sivan, Lorde, and Billie Eilish appeared to the crowd’s delight.

There’s no guarantee they’ll return for weekend two, but Charli’s magnetism is reason enough to tune in again.

Benson Boone vs. d4vd: The Flip-Off

Benson Boone came out swinging—literally—with his signature piano front flip, matched by explosive vocals and unexpected collaborations, including a momentous Bohemian Rhapsody duet with Brian May. He’s shaping up to be 2025’s breakout star.

On the other hand, d4vd’s backflip attempt didn’t quite land. But he recovered, finishing strong with crowd-pleasing versions of his bedroom pop hits. He’s promised to practice for this weekend—so the rematch should be fun to watch.

Gustavo Dudamel & LA Philharmonic: Classical Chaos

In one of the most surprising moments, the LA Philharmonic under Gustavo Dudamel brought orchestral grandeur to the desert. They moved from classical standards to pop and rap, bringing onstage the likes of Beck, Laufey, Maren Morris, and LL Cool J.

Weekend two promises an entirely new set of surprise guests. Even if you’re not into symphonies, this genre-bending experiment is worth a stream.

T-Pain: Nostalgia in Overdrive

T-Pain came dressed like a steampunk prophet of party and delivered hit after hit. Whether covering Journey or diving into early 2000s anthems like Buy U A Drank, he had the crowd in the palm of his hand.

As a surprise favorite, T-Pain’s set stirred up calls for him to headline the next Super Bowl. Over-the-top? Maybe. But after that performance, it doesn’t sound so far-fetched.

Also Worth Your Stream

Megan Thee Stallion brought all-star guests, Belinda Carlisle reunited The Go-Gos, and Sam Fender reminded us that British indie rock still has punch. South African newcomer Tyla impressed with Amapiano-infused pop, and Fcukers had everyone humming Bon Bon by day’s end.

YouTube sensation and philanthropist Jimmy Donaldson, famously known as MrBeast, has issued a heartfelt apology following an underwhelming fan experience at the “MrBeast Experience” hosted at Resorts World Las Vegas. The three-day event, promoted as an immersive and unforgettable adventure, drew backlash from attendees who felt misled and disappointed.

Known globally for his jaw-dropping stunts, charitable giveaways, and massive subscriber base — over 385 million across his platforms — MrBeast has cultivated a reputation for going above and beyond for his fans. However, this recent venture failed to meet expectations, prompting widespread complaints, demands for refunds, and social media uproar.

Promises vs. Reality

The event was advertised as a premium fan experience. Guests were enticed by the promise of exclusive games, limited edition merchandise, a MrBeast-themed food menu, and even mystery bags containing surprises — including the chance to win a $10,000 gift voucher. With some fans spending as much as $1,000 for the weekend, the anticipation was high.

Yet, for many, what followed was not the interactive and memorable experience they had envisioned.

One attendee, Theresa Metta, shared her story with 8NewsNow, expressing her deep disappointment. Traveling to Las Vegas with her mother in hopes of meeting fellow fans and engaging in fun challenges, she found herself instead confined to her hotel room.

“We were told to stay in our rooms and wait for our mystery bags,” she explained. “I legit spent two days waiting for a package to come — and it ended up being a box of chocolates.”

Others echoed the sentiment, describing the event as chaotic and poorly organized. Instead of mini-games, photo ops, or even appearances by MrBeast or his team, fans spent most of their time isolated and waiting, with little to show for their patience.

MrBeast-Apologizes-Las-Vegas-Experience-Disappoints

“This Isn’t What We Hoped”

As criticism mounted, a wave of videos and social media posts began surfacing, some going viral. TikTok users shared footage of lackluster merchandise deliveries — t-shirts in random sizes, some of which were reportedly available online for a fraction of the ticket cost. Many accused both the resort and MrBeast of “false advertising” and exploiting the trust of loyal fans.

The controversy reached a boiling point on Tuesday when a group of frustrated attendees confronted Resorts World CEO Alex Dixon, demanding refunds and answers for what they called a “scam.”

In response to a fan’s complaint on X (formerly Twitter), Donaldson took accountability for the fiasco, tweeting: “This definitely isn’t the experience we hoped they’d deliver. I’m sorry. I’m inviting everyone affected to our studio to make it right.”

While the gesture was appreciated by some, others remain skeptical, citing logistical issues and travel costs as barriers to accepting the studio invitation.

Damage Control

Following the backlash, the event listing was swiftly removed from the hotel’s website. The BBC reached out to both MrBeast and Resorts World Las Vegas for further comment, but no additional statements have been issued at the time of publishing.

It’s still unclear whether full or partial refunds will be provided to attendees.

For MrBeast, who has built a brand synonymous with generosity and grand-scale production, the failed Vegas event marks a rare stumble. From giving away private islands to funding life-changing surgeries, Donaldson has consistently been one of the most impactful creators in the digital space. This incident, however, serves as a reminder that even the most well-intentioned influencers must ensure that their real-world activations live up to the high standards their audiences have come to expect.

Lessons Learned

The fiasco highlights the challenges that arise when online creators transition into live, in-person experiences — particularly those involving third-party partners like resorts and event organizers. When things go wrong, the fallout can affect not only finances but reputations as well.

For fans, the situation has left a mix of disappointment and hope. Many still admire MrBeast’s transparency and willingness to take responsibility, even if they feel let down by the execution.

As the dust settles, this misstep may serve as a valuable learning experience — not just for MrBeast, but for the growing number of digital creators stepping into the world of live events. Authenticity, attention to detail, and clear communication are paramount, especially when fans are investing not just money, but trust and admiration.

And in a world where brand loyalty can shift in a tweet, even the biggest names are only as strong as their most recent experience.

In a historic moment for both pop culture and aerospace, global pop icon Katy Perry is set to trade the concert stage for the stars. Perry, alongside five remarkable women, will be aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket—a pioneering all-female mission that represents a significant step in the evolution of private space travel.

The launch, set to lift off from Blue Origin’s West Texas base, promises not only a thrilling ride beyond the atmosphere but a powerful symbol of female empowerment in a field long dominated by men. This suborbital journey, expected to last around 11 minutes, will carry the crew more than 100 kilometers above the Earth—crossing the Kármán line, which marks the internationally recognized boundary of space. For a few awe-inspiring moments, the crew will experience the weightlessness of space.

Joining Perry on this celestial voyage are Lauren Sánchez—fiancée of Blue Origin’s founder Jeff Bezos—veteran CBS broadcaster Gayle King, former NASA engineer Aisha Bowe, civil rights advocate Amanda Nguyen, and film producer Kerianne Flynn. Together, they form the first all-women team to travel into space in more than six decades. The last time an all-female space mission took place was in 1963, when Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova journeyed solo aboard Vostok 6.

Reflecting on this extraordinary opportunity, Perry shared her excitement on social media, saying that even as a child growing up with limited resources, she always held on to wonder and believed the impossible was within reach. “If someone had told me I’d be part of the first-ever all-female space crew, I would’ve believed them,” she wrote, adding that her imagination has always been limitless.

Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket is a marvel of modern engineering. Fully autonomous and designed for vertical lift-off and landing, the spacecraft separates mid-flight to allow the capsule to climb higher while the booster safely returns to land roughly two miles from the launch pad. The crew capsule is built to carry six passengers and includes features like large windows for Earth-gazing and a parachute system to ensure a gentle return to the desert floor.

Katy Perry’s Journey to the Stars: All-Women Crew to

The women aboard won’t be required to pilot the rocket, as the system runs independently. However, they must undergo two days of intensive training. This includes physical conditioning, emergency preparedness, and acclimation to zero-gravity environments. Additionally, a pair of ground-based support members, known as Crew Member Seven, will offer constant assistance and maintain mission control communication throughout the flight.

Blue Origin, founded by Amazon magnate Jeff Bezos in 2000, is one of the leading players in the burgeoning space tourism sector. While ticket pricing remains partially under wraps, securing a seat on the New Shepard reportedly requires a significant deposit—highlighting how these space ventures remain accessible to only a select few. The company is also working toward creating more sustainable, long-term space infrastructure, including reusable rockets and systems aimed at future lunar landings.

Still, this rise of space tourism hasn’t come without criticism. Many argue that the exclusivity of such missions underscores the vast economic disparity in the world. Actress Olivia Munn voiced her concerns on a recent television appearance, pointing out that many people struggle with basic necessities while others are spending millions to journey into space.

Environmentalists have also expressed alarm over the potential impact of increased rocket launches on the atmosphere. Studies have suggested that the emissions from rockets—particularly the soot released into the upper layers of the atmosphere—could have far-reaching effects on the ozone layer and contribute significantly to global warming. A 2022 study led by Professor Eloise Marais of University College London found that rocket emissions could be substantially more damaging than those from aircraft.

Despite these concerns, many experts continue to advocate for the expansion of human activity beyond Earth. Celebrated physicist Professor Brian Cox emphasised in a recent interview the importance of looking beyond our planet for the future of civilisation, stressing that public-private collaboration in space exploration can be a major catalyst for scientific progress.

Former astronaut Tim Peake has also spoken in defence of space missions, especially those designed to advance scientific understanding and tackle pressing issues like climate change. Speaking at the COP26 summit in Glasgow, he expressed regret that the image of space travel was being increasingly seen as elitist. “I support the use of space for science and the greater good of humanity,” he said, lamenting that private space ventures are often portrayed solely as luxurious escapades for the rich.

As Katy Perry and her fellow crew members prepare to make their journey, this mission is about more than just reaching space—it’s about redefining who gets to dream, explore, and lead. It is a moment that blends celebrity, science, and symbolism into one giant leap for womankind.

Whether you view it as a milestone for innovation or a controversial indulgence, the fact remains: a pop star’s next big performance may just take place among the stars.

Scarlett Johansson has never been one to stay in a single lane. From her days as a breakout teen star to becoming one of Hollywood’s most bankable names and a symbol of artistic depth, Johansson’s career has consistently defied predictability. And now, at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, she’s raising the bar once again—this time appearing on the iconic Croisette both as a performer and a director.

The Oscar-nominated actress and global superstar is playing a pivotal role in Wes Anderson’s latest cinematic wonder, The Phoenician Scheme, while also stepping behind the camera for the very first time with her directorial debut, Eleanor the Great. In a festival packed with promising films and bold debuts, Johansson is not just participating—she’s taking the spotlight by storm.

A Star Returns—In True Wes Anderson Fashion

Fans of quirky aesthetics and richly woven storytelling have much to celebrate. The Phoenician Scheme, directed by Cannes regular Wes Anderson, is already generating buzz as a strong contender for the Palme d’Or—the festival’s highest honor. Featuring a star-studded ensemble including Benicio Del Toro, Tom Hanks, and Scarlett Johansson, the film is said to be a visually eccentric exploration of identity, espionage, and lost civilizations.

Though Anderson is no stranger to Cannes, having had several of his past works featured and awarded, it’s Johansson’s return to such a stylized cinematic world that’s drawing extra attention. Known for her ability to bring depth and vulnerability to even the most abstract of characters, Johansson is expected to deliver yet another unforgettable performance.

From Red Carpet to Director’s Chair

But Johansson isn’t just gracing the red carpet as an actor this year—she’s making a groundbreaking move as a filmmaker. Her directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, is part of Cannes’ official lineup and is competing in the prestigious second-tier category. The film tells the poignant story of an elderly woman navigating life and loss after the death of her closest friend—a quiet, powerful exploration of grief, reinvention, and the beauty of growing old.

The film represents a bold new chapter in Johansson’s career, signaling her evolution from a Hollywood megastar to a creative force ready to shape stories from the other side of the lens. And while celebrity-turned-directors aren’t new to the scene, Johansson’s reputation for thoughtful role selection and her depth as a performer sets high expectations for this debut.

Cannes Backs Female Voices

The Cannes Film Festival has long faced scrutiny for its lack of representation when it comes to female directors. This year, however, the winds appear to be shifting. Festival president Iris Knobloch emphasized this progress in a press conference, proudly stating that the organization is committed to showcasing more women-led projects.

“I am honoured to amplify the voices of women,” Knobloch noted, as she discussed the diverse lineup that now includes six films from female directors competing for the top prize.

Johansson’s inclusion, both on-screen and as a director, aligns perfectly with this renewed focus. Eleanor the Great isn’t just a film—it’s a statement about maturity, empathy, and the often-ignored stories of older women. That Johansson chose such a script for her debut says much about where her creative instincts lie.

Scarlett Johansson Shines Bright at Cannes—On Screen and

A Festival of Firsts and Legends

Johansson is not the only star adding new titles to their résumé this year. Harris Dickinson, a rising British talent recently cast as John Lennon in Sir Sam Mendes’ upcoming Beatles quadrilogy, is also debuting his first directorial film at Cannes. Urchin, a gritty, emotional tale about a homeless man in London, showcases Dickinson’s desire to tell socially resonant stories.

The festival is also drawing attention with entries from celebrated directors such as Jafar Panahi (A Simple Accident), horror auteur Ari Aster (Eddington, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone), and American filmmaker Kelly Reichardt (The Mastermind, featuring Josh O’Connor and John Magaro).

Adding a touch of nostalgia and glamour to the proceedings is the legendary Robert De Niro, who will be honored with an honorary Palme d’Or. Meanwhile, Tom Cruise returns to Cannes with the grand finale of the Mission: Impossible series, adding blockbuster energy to an otherwise auteur-driven lineup.

A Defining Moment

For Scarlett Johansson, Cannes 2025 marks more than just a career milestone—it represents a transformation. She has already conquered the Marvel universe, proven her acting chops with Oscar-nominated turns in films like Marriage Story and Jojo Rabbit, and built a global fan base that spans generations. Now, as she shifts behind the camera, she signals a commitment to storytelling that is personal, reflective, and deeply human.

The dual presence of Johansson at Cannes—first as a star in one of the festival’s most anticipated films and then as a director presenting her vision to the world—reflects a rare kind of creative versatility. And in a year where female storytellers are finally being recognized more widely, her emergence as a filmmaker feels both timely and inspiring.

As the red carpet flashes and the world watches Cannes with eager eyes, one thing is certain—Scarlett Johansson is no longer just a leading lady. She’s a leader in cinema.

In a deeply emotional tribute that has touched hearts across the nation, Gladiators star Zack George, known to millions as Steel, has announced the devastating loss of his newborn son, Leo. The fitness icon and CrossFit champion, alongside his wife, Samantha, shared the heartbreaking news via Instagram, revealing that Leo was born prematurely at 23 weeks and passed away just days after entering the world.

George, who won the title of the UK’s Fittest Man in 2020 and has since become a household name through the BBC’s reboot of Gladiators, has long used his platform to inspire health, strength, and resilience—particularly among young people. But this week, the athlete shared a new, deeper perspective on what true strength really means.

“Your mummy brought you into this world, and your daddy held you as you left,” George wrote in a moving Instagram post. “Leo, you showed us what the true definition of strength is and we are so proud of you. Although you were only with us for a short time, you brought us a lifetime of love.”

The post, accompanied by a tender video of Leo lying peacefully in his father’s arms, struck a chord with fans and followers, who flooded the comments with messages of support and sympathy. Many were especially moved by George’s reflections on strength—not as measured by weights or athletic feats—but in the quiet, soul-deep endurance required to say goodbye to a child.

“I now see strength in a different way,” George shared. “People would ask how strong I am, and I’d answer with numbers—my squat, bench press, and personal bests. Now I’d answer very differently. Strength is holding my little precious boy knowing it’s breaking my heart but mending his.”

A Journey of Resilience and Purpose

Zack and Samantha, who also share a two-year-old daughter named Ivy, had been documenting their journey since March, when Samantha went into premature labor. In a post shared shortly before Leo’s birth, the couple spoke of their baby boy’s ongoing fight for life, describing him as “tiny, fragile, and fighting.”

Despite the trauma, the couple remained hopeful, drawing comfort from stories of others who had navigated similar challenges. Samantha posted a poignant image of Leo’s hand resting on her finger, writing, “Thank you everyone for your kind words and premature baby stories. Please keep them coming… they are giving us so much hope for our precious Leo.”

But on Tuesday, they shared that Leo’s fight had come to an end.

“Thank you for letting us know that you had had enough of this fight,” George wrote. “We will forever be grateful that we didn’t have to make that decision for you. Leo, our lion, we love you more than you will ever know. Rest easy our little boy.”

Leo-Lion-Gladiators-Star-Zack-George-to-his-son

A Legacy of Love and Inspiration

While Leo’s life was heartbreakingly short, his impact has been immeasurable. The George family’s vulnerability and courage in sharing their loss have sparked widespread compassion and reminded the public of the unseen battles many families face.

Tributes poured in from fellow Gladiators cast members and celebrities alike. JLS singer JB Gill wrote, “Heartbreaking, what a little warrior. Thoughts and prayers to you both and your family.” Montell Douglas, who plays Fire on the show, added, “RIP baby Leo. Thoughts and prayers are with you both.”

Beyond the screen, Zack George has long been a passionate advocate for children’s well-being. He co-founded an initiative dedicated to promoting physical and mental health among children aged three to 16, running workshops in schools across the UK.

“It’s a passion of mine to show kids how to eat well, exercise, and have a good mindset,” he told the BBC. “You can see some of the kids who come into the workshops have low confidence… by the end, their chests are up, their backs are straight, and they’re smiling. That makes it worthwhile.”

His commitment to young people, coupled with his own transformation from fast food addiction to fitness fame, has made George a powerful role model. In interviews, he has spoken candidly about his own struggles with weight and poor health in his youth, recounting how he once ate fast food five times a week and felt “rubbish” both mentally and physically.

“Being overweight makes you feel rubbish,” he recalled. “You can’t walk or run far, so you don’t want to exercise, and you often end up finding comfort in fast food.”

A Private Grief Shared with the World

Zack and Samantha’s journey into parenthood was, until recently, filled with joy and dreams for the future. Just seven months before Leo’s birth, the couple celebrated their love with an intimate wedding ceremony. Their family life, already filled with affection for their daughter Ivy, had been eagerly anticipating Leo’s arrival.

But even in the depths of grief, the couple’s message is clear: Leo’s life, however brief, was filled with love, strength, and meaning.

Through their openness, Zack and Samantha have created space for conversation, reflection, and healing—not only for themselves, but for the countless families who have experienced similar heartbreaks.

Leo may have spent only a short time on Earth, but his presence will be remembered in every life his story has touched.

When the Crown Meets Crisis: Meghan’s Candid Confession

In a world where public figures are often expected to maintain grace under pressure, Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has peeled back the curtain to reveal a deeply personal health scare. Speaking on the premiere episode of her new podcast, Confessions of a Female Founder, Meghan opened up about being diagnosed with postpartum pre-eclampsia following the birth of one of her children, a condition she described as both “rare and scary.”

While she chose not to specify whether the diagnosis followed the birth of Archie or Lilibet, Meghan’s tone carried the weight of someone who had navigated a storm silently while the world’s eyes were fixated on her public image.

“It’s so rare. And it’s so scary,” she said, her voice steady but reflective. “You’re still trying to juggle all these things, and the world doesn’t know what is happening. Quietly, in the background, you’re still trying to show up for others, but mostly for your children.”

A Shared Struggle with a Fellow Founder

Joining Meghan on the podcast’s first episode was Whitney Wolfe Herd, founder of the dating app Bumble. The conversation between the two trailblazing women took a deeply emotional turn when it was revealed that both had experienced the same frightening condition. Herd recalled the moment vividly: “It’s life or death, truly.”

The vulnerability they shared was more than just a medical confession—it was a reminder that even the most seemingly poised and powerful women are not immune to life-altering challenges. As Herd remembered watching Meghan, newly postpartum, stepping out in heels and presenting Archie to the world, her awe was palpable. “I was just becoming a new mum, and I thought, ‘How is this woman doing this?’” she said.

Royal Resilience: Meghan Markle Reveals “Rare and Scary

What is Post-Partum Pre-Eclampsia?

While most are familiar with pre-eclampsia as a pregnancy-related complication, postpartum pre-eclampsia is lesser-known and just as dangerous. The condition typically emerges after childbirth, manifesting through high blood pressure and, at times, other alarming symptoms like severe headaches, vision disturbances, or swelling.

According to the NHS, if not treated swiftly, it can lead to severe complications for the mother, including seizures or even organ failure. Though many cases are manageable with medical attention, the emotional and physical toll can be significant—especially for new mothers also juggling the demands of infant care.

Behind Palace Doors: The Quiet Moments of Motherhood

In the podcast, Meghan also offered a glimpse into her day-to-day life as a working mother. While the world often associates her with red carpets and royal events, her reality involves preschool pick-ups, toddler naps, and balancing business meetings with child-rearing.

“I don’t leave the house to go to an office—my office is here,” she explained. “If Lilibet wakes up from her nap and wants to find me, she knows exactly where to go. Even if the office door is closed, she’ll be on my lap during a Zoom meeting with a grid full of executives.”

Meghan’s reflections struck a chord with many working parents: the desire to be present for professional commitments yet not miss the irreplaceable moments of early childhood. “I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she said. “I don’t want to miss drop-off. I don’t want to miss the pickup.”

The Evolution of Meghan: From Archetypes to Authenticity

Confessions of a Female Founder, produced in collaboration with Lemonada Media, represents Meghan’s return to the podcasting world following her earlier series Archetypes on Spotify. That venture, though met with mixed reviews, introduced her voice to a new kind of audience. With this new series, she’s leaning into a more vulnerable and entrepreneurial identity.

She’s also expanding her personal brand. From the Netflix lifestyle show With Love, Meghan to the recent launch of her fashion-forward brand As Ever, the Duchess is crafting a business that blends wellness, empowerment, and authentic storytelling.

“This podcast is about candid conversations,” she said. “It’s girl talk, but it’s also about growth—both as a woman and as a founder. Building something meaningful while your child is going through potty training? Both are high-stakes, high-value moments.”

Why Her Voice Matters

Meghan Markle has long been a figure who elicits strong opinions. But with this revelation, she steps into a universal narrative—one that transcends titles, status, and politics. Hers is the story of a mother navigating unseen challenges, of a woman balancing ambition with nurturing, of someone reminding the world that strength and softness can coexist.

By sharing her health battle, she’s not just giving voice to an often-overlooked condition—she’s validating the lived experiences of countless women who endure similar struggles in silence.

And in doing so, Meghan isn’t just redefining what it means to be a duchess—she’s redefining what it means to be human.