Liam Payne’s body is being prepared for transfer back to his native United Kingdom from Argentina.
A source confirmed to Us Weekly that Payne’s remains would be transferred to the British Cemetery in Chacarita, the largest cemetery in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to “begin the embalming process to preserve the body for the return trip” to London, England where his funeral will take place. Liam’s farewell mass will be held at the city’s famed Saint Paul’s Cathedral, and then he will be buried.
The source also noted that the embalming process “could take about 48 hours,” meaning that Liam’s father, Geoff Payne, may return to the United Kingdom with his son’s body as soon as Monday, November 4. According to another outlet, Argentina’s La Nación, Geoff was able to repatriate his son’s body after two weeks of bureaucratic processes.
Us confirmed on October 16 that Payne had died last month at age 31 after a fall from a third floor hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. He suffered “serious injuries” after falling from a third-story balcony at a hotel in Buenos Aires, according to the city’s emergency service chief Alberto Crescenti. A preliminary autopsy revealed that Payne had died from “internal and external” hemorrhages.
One Direction alum Liam Payne died on October 16, 2024, at the age of 31. That evening, Us Weekly confirmed Payne had fallen to his death from a third-floor balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The singer had sustained a cranial fracture and other serious injuries that were too severe for treatment. Local emergency responders […]
A partial autopsy report published on October 21 indicated that the One Direction singer also had multiple drugs in his system, including “pink cocaine,” cocaine, benzodiazepine and crack, at the time of his fall.
Last month, Dr. Cristian Poletti, a university professor and lawyer who specializes in criminal law, explained in an exclusive interview with Us what would happen with Payne’s body following his death. (Poletti is not involved in the case.)
“What is happening with Liam Payne’s body is fundamentally that they need to wait for the toxicological reports that usually take from one to two weeks, from 7 to 15 days, and until that result is obtained they will not release the body,” Poletti said on October 22, adding that “any death suspected of criminality” would need “a certain amount of time.”
UPDATE 10/17/24 1:13 p.m EST Despite reports to the contrary, authorities in Buenos Aires cannot confirm Liam Payne jumped from his hotel room balcony before his death. Police sources confirmed to Us Weekly that all that is known is that Payne “fell,” but “it is not known whether he jumped” or if was an accidental […]
She noted that a toxicology report “takes from 7 to 15 days,” adding, “Until those studies are done and everything that has to do with the autopsy of the body is confirmed, they will not release the body, they will not deliver the body to the family.”
Poletti continued, “In case they were to deliver it, they will not allow the incineration of the body. Nor will they allow them to take it out of the country. That is, once the body is completely released, the family can do whatever they want. They will allow the release, they will allow the body to travel to its place of origin. Before that, they will not do it.”
Jessica Simpson(Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)
Jessica Simpson marked 7 years of sobriety with a poignant post to commemorate the milestone.
Taking to social media on Friday, November 1, the singer, 44, shared a black-and-white photo via Instagram of herself looking out a plane window.
“7yrs ago today I walked myself into the light of being alcohol free 🤍,” she captioned the image.
Well-wishers flocked to the comments section to applaud Simpson for the post, including actor John Stamos, who wrote, “Bravo.”
Fans also congratulated the “I Wanna Love You Forever” singer on her sobriety achievement.
“Congrats on 7 years queen!!!! It’s a beautiful life 🌻” wrote one follower, while another added, “You will never know how many women you inspired to do the same @jessicasimpson !!!! Thank you for sharing your vulnerability, your strength, your hope, your passion, your joy, and your FREEDOM…happy 7!!! 🎂”
The singer previously opened about how she became reliant on alcohol as a way to cope with her past trauma, including childhood sexual abuse.
Simpson recalled in a revealing interview on Today in January 2020 that she knew the problem had become a huge issue in October 2017 when she failed to show up for her kids on Halloween. (Simpson shares Maxwell, Ace, and Birdie, with husband Eric Johnson).
“I honestly couldn’t even tell you who got them ready. I was just dazed and confused, and I just wanted to go to sleep,” Simpson said on Today. “I didn’t take them trick-or-treating. I didn’t show up for my family. I took the picture and I made the world think that I showed up.”
The incident became the catalyst for Simpson to make the decision to quit drinking for good and start working with a therapist.
“I just realized that I had to surrender,” she told Today host Hoda Kotb. “I just want to continue on the path that I’m on, and at this point in my life, I’m strong enough to deal with anything that comes my way. Because I don’t have something to retreat to that will numb me from actually going through it.”
She added: “I had started a spiral and I couldn’t catch up with myself … and that was with alcohol. Every day I would say it, ‘I’ll stop soon. I’ll cut back.’”
Since then, Simpson has marked each anniversary of her sobriety with a post shared via Instagram, including in 2021 when she shared a photo of herself in 2017 and a lengthy caption reflecting on how far she had come since putting down the bottle.
My, how she’s grown! Jessica Simpson has come a long way since introducing herself to the world as a young singer with memorable pipes. The musician went on to conquer reality TV, the fashion industry, motherhood and the Hollywood dating scene after stepping into the spotlight. Simpson made her mark with songs such as “I […]
“This person in the early morning of Nov 1, 2017 is an unrecognizable version of myself. I had so much self discovery to unlock and explore. I knew in this very moment I would allow myself to take back my light, show victory over my internal battle of self respect, and brave this world with piercing clarity,” she wrote. “Personally, to do this I needed to stop drinking alcohol because it kept my mind and heart circling in the same direction and quite honestly I was exhausted. I wanted to feel the pain so I could carry it like a badge of honor. I wanted to live as a leader does and break cycles to advance forward- never looking back with regret and remorse over any choice I have made and would make for the rest of my time here within this beautiful world.
I can’t believe it has been 4yrs! It feels like maybe 2. I think that is a good thing. Ha.”
Simpson concluded: “There is so much stigma around the word alcoholism or the label of an alcoholic. The real work that needed to be done in my life was to actually accept failure, pain, brokenness, and self sabotage. The drinking wasn’t the issue. I was. I didn’t love myself. I didn’t respect my own power. Today I do. I have made nice with the fears and I have accepted the parts of my life that are just sad. I own my personal power with soulful courage. I am wildly honest and comfortably open. I am free.”
Liam Payne and Louis Tomlinson in 2016.(Photo by Getty)
Liam Payneand Louis Tomlinson were connected for life through their stint in One Direction, which became one of the most successful boy bands of all time.
But their friendship wasn’t always smooth-sailing, with the late “Teardrops” singer admitting he and Tomlinson, 32, “hated” each other at the beginning of their boy band journey.
Later, their bond became unbreakable as they pair openly expressed their adoration for one another in recent years in touching public tributes and interviews.
As news breaks about Payne’s tragic death at age 31 in Buenos Aires, Argentina on Wednesday, October 16, Us Weekly looks back at the bromance between the two 1D stars.
July 2010
After auditioning for the UK’s X Factor in 2008 but getting cut for being too young, Payne returned two years later for a second shot at fame. Along with Harry Styles, 30, Zayn Malik, 31, and Niall Horan, 31, Payne and Tomlinson were offered the chance to join forces as a boy band. When they all agreed, this marked the beginning of the pop sensation One Direction.
(L-R) Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik and Liam Payne in 2010(Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
2013
Payne spoke about how his bond with Tomlinson and the rest of his One Direction bandmates helped him through the demands and pressures at their peak of their success.
“We just take each day as it comes,” Payne told E! News in 2013. “The thing about us is we’re not taking it too seriously. We’re just here to have a bit of a laugh, and then whatever else comes with it is great.”
When asked about the possibility of one day moving on to a solo career if One Direction were to disband, Payne added that he would miss the camaraderie.
“It kinda scares me a little bit to be honest with you,” Payne told the outlet. “I like having the comfort of the other lads on stage.”
He added, “There’s always someone to chat to.”
One Direction in 2013(Photo by JM Enternational/Redferns)
August 2015
One Direction shocked their fans by pulling the plug on the band, but insisted at the time they were only going on “hiatus” for an estimated 18-month period.
December 2016
In 2016, tragedy struck Tomlinson’s life when his mother Johannah Deakindied from leukemia at age 43.
Payne threw his support behind Tomlinson as he grieved, writing a heartfelt note to his bandmate, which he posted via Twitter.
“I am so sorry for you, my brother,” he wrote in the note. “My heart aches for you. Just know I love you the same from a million miles away as I do right next to you. I’m always here for you through everything as you have been for me. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this incredibly sad time.”
Payne added that he “can’t begin to imagine what you are all going through,” and signed off by penning “RIP, Johannah, you are forever in my thoughts.”
Liam Payne and Louis Tomlinson in 2016.(Photo by Getty)
2019
Payne opened up about the early days of One Direction and how he and Tomlinson got off on the wrong foot initially.
In an interview with Hits Radio, Payne confessed that he and Tomlinson “absolutely hated each other” at the start.
“When we were in the band it kind of felt like, because he was the oldest and because I’d been singing for quite a bit of time we both got put in a weird position,” Payne told the outlet.
“He was wanting to be the leader and I was doing my thing and wanted to. So at first we didn’t get on at all. We absolutely hated each other, it was so funny. Really bad. We hid it well.”
March 2019
Tragedy struck again in 2019 when Tomlinson’s younger sister Félicitédied of a drug overdose at age 18 in London.
The deaths of Félicité and Johanna featured in Tomlinson’s documentary “All of Those Voices” which was released in 2023.
October 2021
Payne again reflected on his relationship with Tomlinson over the years while speaking to ET Canada in October 2021.
“Me and Louis did not get along. We all got thrown together, and we didn’t know each other when got made into a band,” Payne said. “Now we are actually the best of friends within the band, which I think is absolutely hilarious … I think even in those moments of angst it breathes a connection between you both.”
One Direction in 2015(Photo by Getty)
May 2022
Appearing on Logan Paul’s “Impaulsive” podcast in May 2022, Payne caused controversy by speaking candidly about his “rowdy” bandmates, including Tomlinson.
“Louis was wild. And he wanted to be wild. That’s his spirit,” Payne said. “He’s my best mate now but in the band, we hated each other. Like, come-to-blows hated each other. It was close.”
September 2022
While Payne received much backlash following his comments on the podcast, Tomlinson later publicly defended the “Strip That Down” singer while appearing on podcast, “The Zach Sang Show.”
“It wasn’t too bad,” Tomlinson said in September 2022. “When I first went online and I’d seen the fans… I was waiting for it to kick off”.
Tomlinson acknowledged the difficulties and pressures celebrities face, describing their jobs as “challenging”.
“We all make mistakes of having these judgements when we watch videos or whatever it might be. Let me say this job is f—ing challenging at times, mentally very f—ing challenging at times. And I know no one who’s listening to this wants to f–king hear that cause you know we’ve got it good, I appreciate that.”
Louis Tomlinson and Liam Payne in 2023.(Photo by Justin E Palmer/GC Images)
March 2023
After attending the premiere of Tomlinson’s documentary “All of Those Voices”, Payne reflected on not being around enough for Tomlinson as he faced some of his toughest personal challenges.
“Seeing the world through your eyes last night was the most beautiful thing to experience,” Payne wrote via an Instagram tribute post in March 2023. “My neck hurts from how much I’m looking up to you right now you were already my friend and brother but getting to look through that window into your world and mind just extends that respect I have for you. What you’ve dealt with and how you held it all inside. I’m so sorry I was so out of my mind and didn’t do better for you. I feel ashamed in those moments to not be as good of a friend as you have been to me, at least I have time now and I’m me again so will try and make amends.”
From the moment One Direction was formed, Liam Payne found himself with four additional brothers for life. Thanks to the creative minds of The X Factor UK judges Simon Cowell, Nicole Scherzinger and Louis Walsh, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Payne came together in 2010 to create a life-changing boy band. […]
Payne also paid tribute to Tomlinson for being such a good friend to him.
“I’m so thankful to have you in my life mate,” Payne wrote. “I feel so lucky and I know you know this but you were part of a small group of people that literally saved my life, you dragged me out of something so dark I’ve never shared it, but your approach is something I admire and aspire to so I can one day do the same.”
For his part, Tomlinson showed his appreciation that Payne attended the premiere by writing via X, “It means the absolute world. Love you lad!”
Raven Tracy and Christian Combs on October 12Carol Lee Rose/Getty Images
Christian ‘”King” Combs was filmed partying two days after he attended his father Sean “Diddy” Combs’ court appearance.
In a video shared by Live Bitez via Instagram on Sunday, October 13, Christian, 26, is seen dancing in a club with his girlfriend, Raven Tracy, and pouring a shot of what appears to be liquor into her mouth.
The night out followed a Manhattan court hearing held on Thursday, October 10, which was attended by Diddy, 54, and six of his seven children including Christian. The hearing determined a start date — May 5, 2025 — for Diddy’s trial following the music mogul’s September 16 arrest on charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. (Diddy has pleaded not guilty to all charges.)
The lengthy Instagram video was captioned, “King Combs Declares He’s Got the Baddest Girl in the World While Turning Up with Friends at the Club! #kingcombs #raventracy Yall giving her Tens?” and showed Christian singing along to songs including Mya’s 2000 track, “Best of Me, Part 2,” featuring Jay-Z.
Paras Griffin/Getty Images While Sean “Diddy” Combs has fervently denied ex-girlfriend Cassie’s rape and assault allegations, multiple women have come forward with similar claims of alleged misconduct by the music mogul. Us Weekly confirmed in November 2023 that Cassie (real name Casandra Ventura) filed a lawsuit against Diddy, accusing him of rape and repeated physical […]
Christian, also a rapper, was also filmed telling the camera that he had “the baddest girl in the world,” as friends of the couple danced around them.
Thursday’s court hearing attracted Diddy’s children, Quincy Brown, 33, Justin Combs, 30, Chance Combs, twins Jessie and D’Lila Combs, both 17, and Christian, as well as Diddy’s mother, Janice Combs. Diddy is currently incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York.
According to USA Today, Diddy wore “tan prison garb” and “blew kisses” to his family after the hearing ended. Diddy was then “led out a side door by members of the U.S. Marshals Service,” per the outlet.
The hearing followed Diddy’s attorneys requesting that his trial commence in April or May next year. The trial’s finalized date coincides with the 2025 Met Gala, also held in Manhattan.
Christian Combs and family attend a pre-trial hearing for Sean “Diddy” Combs on October 10David Dee Delgado/Getty Images
Prosecutors noted that they believe their case will take three weeks to argue, while Diddy’s team said they required about a week to make their case.
USA Today added that Diddy’s legal team met with Judge Arun Subremanian, who stated that Combs will remain “detained pending his latest appeal for bail.”
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Christian vocalized his support for Diddy through his track titled, “Pick A Side,” released in May. The lyrics of song seemingly addressed the March raid of Diddy’s homes in Miami and Los Angeles, reading, “Police raid the crib like they think we selling crack, but we out here selling tracks / Multimillion dollar plaques.”
Sean “Diddy” CombsDave Benett/Getty Images for TAO Group Hospitality
A further line in the song reads, “Pops been hated on by many men.”
Diddy was taken into custody and placed behind bars after a grand jury indicted him one day after his arrest. His attorney Marc Agnifilo told Us Weekly at the time, “We are disappointed with the decision to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs by the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is a music icon, self-made entrepreneur, loving family man and proven philanthropist who has spent the last 30 years building an empire, adoring his children and working to uplift the Black community.”
“[Lisa Marie] is entirely heartbroken, inconsolable and beyond devastated but trying to stay strong for her 11-year-old twins and her oldest daughter Riley,” her rep, Roger Widynowski, told Us Weekly in a statement at the time. “She adored that boy. He was the love of her life.”
Lisa Marie and Danny welcomed Benjamin in 1992, two years before their divorce. Benjamin was the only grandson of Elvis Presley (who died in 1977) and his ex-wife, Priscilla Presley. (Lisa Marie also shares daughter Riley, born in 1989, with ex Danny. She shares twin daughters, Harper and Finley, born in 2008, with ex-husband Michael Lockwood.)
Riley recalled the day her brother died in Lisa Marie’s From Here to the Great Unknown memoir, which was released posthumously in October 2024. (Lisa Marie died in January 2023 at age 54.)
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Benjamin was throwing a party at his mom’s Calabasas home when he went upstairs “to get a beer,” she wrote. After he was missing for “almost an hour,” Benjamin was found. Both Riley and Lisa Marie wrote about him at length in the book.
Keep scrolling to read all the Presley family’s quotes about the late Benjamin:
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
Madonna and her younger brother Christopher Ciccone had a relationship full of ups and downs, with Christopher going from her collaborator to estranged family member over the decades until his death in 2024.
Christopher’s family confirmed to Us Weekly that the dancer, author and interior designer had died of cancer on Friday, October 4, in Michigan surrounded by family, including his husband, Ray Thacker. He was 63. Christopher was one of Madonna’s five siblings, which also includes brothers Anthony, who died in 2023, and Martin, and sisters Paula and Melanie. (They also have two step-siblings, Jennifer and Mario.)
After following her to New York City in the 1980s, Christopher worked for his sister as a backup dancer, dresser and, eventually, her tour director for The Girlie Show in 1993. However, Madonna’s rise to fame ultimately soured their relationship, creating distance and resentment. In a 2008 interview with Good Morning America, Christopher shared that previously he and Madonna “were a very close brother and sister,” and said that it felt “a bit like a marriage.”
Madonna mourned her brother’s death via Instagram, calling Christopher “the closest human to me for so long,” in her tribute. “It’s hard to explain our bond,” she wrote. “But it grew out of an understanding that we were different and society was going to give us a hard time for not following the status quo.”
Keep scrolling to read all about Madonna and Christopher’s ups and downs throughout the years:
1980s
Christopher and MadonnaJody Cortes/Sygma/Sygma via Getty Images
Christopher was very involved in the early years of his sister’s career as a dancer, a dresser and a creative consultant. He shared in his memoir, Life With My Sister Madonna, that he had moved to New York City in the 1980s to be her backup dancer, even appearing in the music video for her single “Lucky Star” in 1984.
In an interview with The Guardian, Christopher confided that he, at times, found working for his sister to be “beneath” him after developing his own career in New York as an artist. “I did it because she needed me, but it bred resentment,” he claimed at the time. “Not many people would have been able to deal with her stuff.”
1990 – 2001
Christopher and MadonnaVinnie Zuffante/Getty Images
In 1990, Christopher was the art director for Madonna’s Blond Ambition World Tour, returning in 1993 as her tour director for The Girlie Show. However, the “Like a Virgin” singer looked outside the family for the Drowned World Tour in 2001, hiring choreographer Jamie King as director instead. It was around that time that Madonna married Guy Ritchie, who Christopher claimed further strained his relationship with the pop star. (Madonna and Ritchie split in 2008.)
1991
Christopher cited the 1991 documentary Madonna: Truth or Dare as an issue between him and his sister, though he hadn’t brought it up to her at the time the film was being made.
“At one point, if you’ve seen the Truth or Dare movie, when she’s rolling around on my mother’s grave that — that was a turning point for me in my relationship with her,” Christopher told Good Morning America in 2008. Madonna and Christopher’s mother — also named Madonna — died of breast cancer in 1963.
“I kept it inside but I thought to myself, ‘OK, there are no boundaries now.’ You know, my mother’s now become a side — a bit player in her life, life story, and it hurt me,” he added. “My opinion of her altered at that moment. I never said anything about it.”
2008
Christopher and MadonnaBarry King/WireImage
Christopher released his tell-all autobiography detailing his relationship with the pop icon, which became a New York Times best-seller and led to speculation that he and Madonna were not on good terms.
Madonna’s rep Liz Rosenberg told AP at the time that she hadn’t read the book but found it “very upsetting” that Christopher had “decided to sell a book based on his sister.” Four years later, Christopher doubled down in an interview with CBS News, saying he didn’t “regret” writing the book.
“It gave people an opportunity to think of me as a creative person, as an artist and not just as Madonna’s brother, which is a tag I’m going to wear forever,” Christopher said in 2012. “But I’m hopeful that at some point it will be Christopher Ciccone first. It’s cool … I’m perfectly happy being what I am.”
2012
In an interview with The Standard, Christopher shared that his relationship with Madonna was on a “perfectly personable level right now,” adding, “As far as I’m concerned, we’re good.” He said, “We are in contact with each other, although I haven’t seen her for a long time. We’re back to being a brother and sister. I don’t work for her, and it’s better this way.”
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2023
Christopher and Madonna’s oldest brother, Anthony Ciccone, died of respiratory failure and throat cancer. He was 66.
2024
Madonna mourned Christopher’s death via Instagram on October 6, sharing a series of photographs of the two siblings throughout the years.
“The last few years have not been easy,” she wrote in a long, heartfelt caption. “We did not speak for some time but when my brother got sick. We found our way back to each other. I did my best to keep him alive as long as possible. He was in so much pain towards the end.” She concluded, “I’m glad he’s not suffering anymore. There will never be anyone like him. I know he’s dancing somewhere.”
“I went home and every year for the holidays I go back to my mom’s house. And I drove from Charleston where I live to Florida, where my mom is, and I came down the stairs and she has music playing,” Stokes, 32, recalled to Fallon on Thursday, October 3. “I was like, ‘Wait a minute… Is that Kelsea Ballerini playing on my mom’s speaker system? And I just looked up at the sky and was like ‘What the f—?’
He continued: “My mom heard me and she goes, ‘Is that her?’ And I was like, ‘Yep, yeah, that’s the girl I told you I was kind of talking to. It’s weird that you’re listening to her at your house. And it’s almost been two years [of dating] now.”
During his appearance on the show, Stokes also revealed that while the pair got off to a flirtatious start, the romance almost fell apart before it really had a chance to blossom.
The actor explained that they met after Ballerini slid into his DMs and they were chatting regularly while he was filming a movie in Bulgaria.
It all almost came crumbling down, however, when an injury landed him in hospital and Ballerini assumed Stokes was purposely ignoring her.
Chase Stokes and Kelsea Ballerini(Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)
“We started talking back and forth and I ended up getting a staph infection and so I was in the hospital and she thought I had ghosted her,” he said. “And she’s like, ‘Okay, whatever. On to the next.’ And I texted her and I was like, ‘Hey, I’m so sorry, I was in the hospital with a staph infection.”
Stokes went on to recall that Ballerini initially didn’t believe him, leading to him to pull out all the stops to convince her he was really injured.
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“I was like, ‘No, I’m serious.’ And I sent her a photo of my arm and it was the size of a baby seal.”
Kelsea Ballerini and Chase Stokes quickly became a fan-favorite couple after confirming their relationship status. The country singer and the Outer Banks star were first linked in January 2023 after they were spotted together at the College Football Playoff National Championship in Los Angeles. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Subscribe to newsletters Please enter […]
With that early miscommunication behind them, the couple has gone from strength to strength in their relationship and Stokes has continually praised his partner while on the promotional trail for his new film Uglies this week.
“I truthfully think when you find somebody who’s not just somebody you love and adore, but is also your best friend, you’ve kind of got the best of both worlds,” he gushed during a Thursday, October 3 appearance on Today. “And she’s not just a great person, but everything that you see — whether it be on social media or when she’s on stage — is exactly the person she is when she’s not doing those things.”
Country singer Garth Brookshas faced ups and downs throughout his career.
Brooks rose to fame in 1989 with the release of his self-titled debut album. He has since gone on to earn two Grammy Awards, 23 Academy of Country Music Awards, two CMT Awards, 10 CMA Awards and many more.
“It’s always fun [to hear my music on the radio] because immediately what happens is you flash back to those faces in the crowd that are singing it, and you see the joy,” Brooks exclusively told Us Weekly in November 2023.
Amid his musical acclaim, Brooks also weathered a number of scandals. He admitted to cheating on his first wife, Sandy Mahl, in 1989 nearly 35 years before an anonymous hairstylist accused him of sexual assault and battery. (Brooks denied the claims.)
Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood are one of the country music’s most famous couples, but they’ve definitely had their ups and downs. “People thought, ‘Well, two celebrities who are in the same business, they won’t last,’” Yearwood exclusively told Us Weekly in 2018. “I’m invested in this family, this is what I want for myself […]
Keep scrolling to revisit Brooks’ ups and downs:
1986
Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images
Brooks married Mahl, and they later welcomed daughters Taylor, August and Allie.
1989
Three years later, Brooks dropped his debut album. Around the same time, he was accused of cheating on Mahl. He admitted to infidelity in a 1993 interview with Barbara Walters.
“After I wore out a pair of jeans while I was down on my knees begging her to take me back,” Brooks said, confirming he and Mahl reconciled.
1993
Brooks performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” during the Super Bowl, but he nearly canceled at the last minute. According to former NFL executive Don Weiss’ book The Making of the Super Bowl: The Inside Story of the World’s Greatest Sporting Event, Brooks had wanted to debut his “We Shall Be Free” video during the broadcast. The music video featured footage of riots and cross burnings, leading the TV network to bar the controversial clip from the programming schedule. Weiss reported that Brooks left the stadium less than an hour before kickoff as a result.
Brooks and the TV executives ultimately came to a compromise and the country singer agreed to perform after they aired the video after all.
Sometimes America’s sweethearts go sour. From Morgan Wallen to The Chicks, the biggest names in country music have been at the center of some major controversies. Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire and Emily Strayer found themselves in hot water in the early 2000s after sharing their personal politics on a public stage. While performing across the […]
1999
Brooks created a fictional persona named Chris Gaines and released a rock album titled Garth Brooks in … the Life of Chris Gaines. The project was initially supposed to serve as the soundtrack for a film titled The Lamb where Brooks would play a rock star, but the movie was never made. In November, Brooks hosted Saturday Night Live as himself but performed as Gaines for his musical number without acknowledging that Gaines was really him.
2000
Brooks and Mahl split, issuing a statement to Billboard at the time.
“Sandy and I both agree that we need to get divorced,” Brooks said in a statement. “Right now, we’re focusing on the impact it will have on the children and how to handle that best, to remain parents even if we don’t remain husband and wife.”
Later that year, Brooks started dating Trisha Yearwood. They initially met in 1987 while Yearwood was married to first husband Christopher Latham. Brooks and Yearwood got married in December 2005.
2013
Brooks was sued for fraud by former business associate Lisa Sanderson, who claimed that he failed to pay her a salary for 20 years. Sanderson also accused Brooks of tax fraud. He denied the allegations. During the trial, Brooks argued that a $226,000 loan was not a gift as Sanderson had alleged. A jury ruled in Brooks’ favor.
2023
Taylor Hill/WireImage
Brooks and Yearwood opened their own Nashville bar, named Friends in Low Places after his popular song, in November. Before the bar opened, Brooks made headlines for confirming the establishment planned to serve Bud Light after the brand faced backlash for partnering with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney.
“Everybody’s got their opinions, but inclusiveness is always gonna be me. I think diversity is the answer to the problems that are here and the problems that are coming,” he said in a Facebook Live video in June. “If you want to come to Friends in Low Places, come in, but come in with love. Come in with tolerance, patience. Come in with an open mind, and it’s cool. If you’re one of those people that just can’t do that, I get it. If you ever are one of those people that want to try it, come.”
That same year, Brooks told Us that he was “dependent” on his wife.
“I was telling somebody the other day, I feel so helpless because there’s nothing I can’t do without her,” he exclusively said in August. “There’s nothing I can’t do with her and there’s nothing I can do without her. It’s a blessing and a curse that you feel so free and independent when she’s there and you’re so dependent when she’s not there. I don’t think she feels this way at all, but I know I do.”
2024
Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
An anonymous woman sued Brooks for sexual assault and battery, claiming in October court documents obtained by CNN that the singer raped her in 2019 when she was hired as a hairstylist.
Ahead of the filing, Brooks filed his own complaint in an attempt to block the hairstylist from repeating her claims. In the motion, he denied the account.
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“Defendant’s allegations are not true,” the filing read. “Defendant is well aware, however, of the substantial, irreparable damage such false allegations would do to Plaintiff’s well-earned reputation as a decent and caring person, along with the unavoidable damage to his family and the irreparable damage to his career and livelihood that would result if she made good on her threat to ‘publicly file’ her fabricated lawsuit.”
Brooks did not immediately address the lawsuit. Us reached out for comment.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or go to rainn.org.
Sean “Diddy” Combs is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn after being charged with sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Diddy, 54, who pleaded not guilty to the charges, was ordered held without bail on Tuesday, September 17. As the rapper awaits trial, Ashley Cordero, whose late husband, Edwin Cordero, was killed in July while detained at the same facility where Diddy is being held, is speaking out about the poor, dangerous conditions of the detention center — and warns the music mogul to be careful.
“The prison is disgusting. They have rats running through there and everything,” Ashley exclusively tells Us Weekly. “It’s disgusting inside. My husband used to sit there and say it was nasty that rats were everywhere. … No human being should be living like that at all. No human being should live that way. You’re not an animal, you’re still a human.”
Ashley says that she still doesn’t know much about what led to her husband’s shocking death, which took place after he was fatally injured in a fight at the detention center.
Celebrities are weighing in following the recent arrest of Sean “Diddy” Combs. The music mogul was taken into custody in New York on September 16. The following day, a 14-page indictment alleging that Diddy “abused, threatened and coerced women and others around him” was made public. The rapper has since entered a not guilty plea […]
“They aren’t giving me much information. It’s under investigation,” she says. “All they told me was it was a brawl [and] that he was stabbed in [the] upper part of his chest.”
DiddyEugene Gologursky/Getty Images
Given her experience with how violent the Metropolitan Detention Center can be, Ashley’s advice for Diddy is to “keep to himself” and not “trust anybody.”
“He should try to transfer to a different prison. My husband died in there. That prison is no good,” Ashley warns. “Honestly, him getting denied bail, you got [to] suck it up and be in prison, but try to transfer. That prison is obviously not safe. If so many are complaining, that says something.”
Ashley and Edwin shared two young children.
“When he went in, my baby was 5 months old. My daughter is two years old and sits here without her father,” Ashley tells Us. “My daughter knows him, she asks about him. My baby will never know her dad. He has another child, my stepson, and it’s affecting him so much.”
INF/INSTAR Sean “Diddy” Combs has been under investigation for at least a year after being accused of sexual assault by multiple people. The rapper and music mogul, 54, made headlines in November 2023 after his ex-girlfriend Cassie accused him of sexual abuse in a bombshell lawsuit. She accused Diddy of beating her, forcing her to […]
Andrew Dalack, a lawyer who previously represented Edwin , told the New York Times in July that his death was “senseless and completely preventable.” He called Edwin “another victim of M.D.C. Brooklyn, an overcrowded, understaffed and neglected federal jail that is hell on earth.”
Last month, federal court Judge Gary Brown threatened to vacate the sentence of a man convicted of a tax scam if he were sent to M.D.C. due to “dangerous, barbaric conditions” at the jail (per the Brooklyn Daily Eagle). He cited violent incidents, including the one that led to Edwin’s death.
“These incidents demonstrate a woeful lack of supervision, a breakdown of order and an environment of lawlessness that constitute unacceptable, reprehensible and deadly mismanagement,” Brown wrote in court documents.
Diddy’s Monday, September 16, arrest came amid his multiple sexual assault lawsuits and a federal investigation.
“We are disappointed with the decision to pursue what we believe is an unjust prosecution of Mr. Combs by the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” Diddy’s attorney Marc Agnifilo told Us in a statement. “He is an imperfect person, but he is not a criminal. To his credit, Mr. Combs has been nothing but cooperative with this investigation and he voluntarily relocated to New York last week in anticipation of these charges. Please reserve your judgment until you have all the facts. These are the acts of an innocent man with nothing to hide, and he looks forward to clearing his name in court.”
Years before two of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ homes were raided in connection to a federal sex trafficking investigation, there was conversation about what went on at the rapper’s residences. After the March 2024 raid made headlines, a clip resurfaced of Usher recalling his experience living with Diddy as a teenager. “I got a chance to […]
After Diddy’s indictment, a 14-page document was unsealed which accused the music mogul of engaging in “a persistent and pervasive pattern of abuse toward women and other individuals.”
Among the document’s shocking details were claims that Diddy hosted “Freak Offs,” which were “elaborate and produced sex performances” allegedly orchestrated using “force, threats of force and coercion to cause victims to engage in extended sex acts with male commercial sex workers.” Diddy and the alleged victims “received IV fluids to recover from the physical exertion and drug use” after the acts, the documents claim.
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The indictment document also alleges that evidence of the “Freak Offs” was discovered in Diddy’s Miami and Beverly Hills residences when the homes were raided in March.
“Law enforcement seized various ‘Freak Off’ supplies, including narcotics and more than 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant,” the docs claim.
With over 57 Billboard Hot 100 hit songs, one might think DJ Khaled has a complicated rider, or list of must-haves in his dressing room before a show — but he says he actually keeps it simple.
“Diptyque candles. Cigars. It changes up once in a while. Then you’ve got your gum, some chips, stuff like that,” Khaled, 48, reveals exclusively in the latest edition of Us Weekly, on newsstands now. “Nothing too crazy. Nothing to scare the promoter.”
Another must-have for Khaled? “Another Bun” milk.
“The honey bun’s gonna be in there,” he says, referencing his new collaboration with Nestlé Nesquik, Ready-to-Drink Cinnamon Bun “Another Bun” milk. “[You gotta] start the day off with great energy and Nesquik.”
The MTV Video Music Awards are back — meaning Hollywood’s favorite artists delivered a fierce and fun red carpet. For the 2024 awards ceremony, which took place at the UBS Arena in New York City on Wednesday, September 11, stars including Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat and more were nominated for a […]
Keep scrolling for more fun stories from Khaled as Us joins him behind the scenes with a virtual backstage pass:
Johnny Nunez/WireImage
Pre-Show Ritual
Part of my ritual is for me to pray and let my family know how much I love them. And start off the day with good energy.
When I’m with my team and my friends, before we do anything, I like to motivate them by being on my A-game. I’m out here trying to be great, and I think that rubs off ’cause it rubs off on me when I see other people be great. So we have to inspire each other.
If I’m on a music tour, I like to listen to certain music backstage before I go on. I love listening to conscious reggae music. I have a playlist and I listen to just real, powerful, beautiful words. It can be raining outside, but it’s sunshine over here. Being super relaxed before I hit the stage with energy is always good for me.
It’s different rituals, but most importantly, it’s about praying and giving thanks to my family and giving thanks for the opportunity.
DJ Khaled, Asahd Khaled, Nicole Tuck, and Aalam KhaledLester Cohen/Getty Images
Dressing Room and Rider Requests
Of course, the honey bun’s gonna be in there. The Nesquik Another Bun. But I also have almonds and fruit. I’ve got a Beats Pill. Fresh white tees ’cause I always spill stuff on my T-shirts. An iPhone charger.
Sometimes I like to take my speaker outside the trailer and play music loud for whoever is around, they feel this energy. I could be on set of a TV show I’m doing and I’ll be outside my trailer and I’m playing this classic BlueprintJay-Z, you know what I’m saying? Just a vibe.
What else I got on my rider? Diptyque candles. Cigars. It changes up once in a while. Then you’ve got your gum, some chips, stuff like that. Nothing too crazy. Nothing to scare the promoter.
Several celebrities have turned the Grammy Awards into a family affair over the years. Beyoncé and Jay-Z attended the 2018 Grammys with their eldest daughter, Blue Ivy. She sat alongside her famous parents in the front row and made headlines for encouraging the couple to stop clapping during the ceremony. (Beyoncé and Jay-Z are also […]
Favorite Song to Perform Live
“All I Do Is Win.” If I’m doing a show, I perform that song several times throughout the show. It’s a winning anthem, but it’s also the anthem for all of us that’s gonna be played forever. So that’s always a great feeling to know that when that record comes on, you get that same reaction all over the world.
Ideal Afterparty
I’m excited to be with my family and kids. After a show, I just like getting back to the next city or going home. I just wanna be with my wife and kids or sometimes, I go straight back to the studio. It’s inspiring to make music. I can’t stop working. When I say working, I mean being productive and doing something great.
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Looking Ahead
Every time I take the stage, I feel that energy. That’s what it’s about. Producing hits taught me how to produce other types of hits.
I’m working on some new merch, I’m working on a new clothing line, I’m working on a new sneaker, there’s so much stuff that I’m working on. And I’m working on a new album. But I only walk into the studio if I’m inspired. That’s what I want to create.
Usher is breaking down how he balances being a performer and maintaining his stellar physique.
“The consistency that comes with being a performer who has to dance and sing and still have a six pack at 45 years old? Yeah, there’s a little bit of mindfulness there,” Usher, 45, exclusively shared in the latest issue of Us Weekly. “But thank God that I have fans that I go work hard for every night.”
The R&B legend noted that his Past, Present, Future tour is keeping him “in shape.” (Usher kicked off the concert series in August and is set to conclude the performances in May 2025.)
“I’m mindful of it, but I don’t let it get me to the point where I’m comparing,” Usher said. “I’m just thinking of it as, maybe there’s somebody out there who is inspired by what I’m going through. Maybe there’s somebody who needs to hear this song and feel this emotion right now and let them know that they’re not alone.”
Despite winning several Grammys, American Music Awards and VMAs, Usher revealed that he still has more career goals for himself.
“I could win an Oscar,” he shared, while noting that he could nab the accolade from a musical perspective. “There’s many ways. There’s documentaries that have won Oscars. There’s live performances that have won Oscars. Who knows? Musical scoring. So many different things in musical categories that may potentially play. Yes, I would love to find a script. … I’d love to be able to someday say that I won an Oscar.”
Kevin Mazur/Getty Images
For now, Usher is celebrating the release of his new concert film, Usher: Rendezvous in Paris, which chronicles several of his performances last year in the French city.
“One beautiful part about going to the movies is you have to put your phone down,” he said. “We put so much energy and effort into making this film something that the entire world would be able to experience, because many people didn’t get the chance to make it to Las Vegas [for my residency]. They didn’t get a chance to make it to Paris. But this film captures so much of the live performance and then some.”
When it comes to fashion, Usher just gets it. The Grammy winner’s sense of style is just as impressive as his stellar vocals. Take Paris Fashion Week in 2023, for example. The hitmaker attended multiple shows in looks that deserved a standing ovation. At the Chanel presentation, Usher dazzled in a tweed blazer paired with […]
Usher’s new concert film, Usher: Rendezvous in Paris, is in theaters until Sunday, September 15.
For more from Usher, watch the exclusive video above and pick up the latest issue of Us Weekly — on newsstands now.
Jelly Roll has opened up about his ongoing health journey, revealing he regularly attends Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings.
The country star, whose real name is Jason DeFord, spoke candidly about his proactive approach to his health during an interview with The New York Times, published on Saturday, August 17.
Jelly Roll detailed how an unreleased song, “Winning Streak,” set to feature on the artist’s forthcoming album Beautifully Broken, was inspired by his experiences and learnings from AA meetings.
He told the outlet that he attends the meeting “for my demons” and that the track was written “from the perspective of a story I’d seen happen for real.”
Jelly Roll might consider himself the son of a sinner, but he’s found an angel in wife Bunnie XO. Following two stints in jail — Jelly Roll (real name Jason Bradley DeFord) was arrested for aggravated robbery at 16 and served one year before being incarcerated for drug dealing at the age of 23 — […]
Jelly Roll, who has spoken in the past about his historical struggles with addiction and substance abuse, shared further detail into how AA meetings continue to help him.
“It was really hard for me to get away from those drugs,” the “Save Me” singer said. “Something I do [for] maintaining my relationship with those drugs is I will still attend the meetings, even though I’m not a textbook sober guy — but I never share, I just quietly sit and appreciate the message and the meaning.”
Jelly Roll, who is married to social media star and podcast host Bunnie XO, added that he still has “a cocktail every now and then” and he remains a “known weed smoker.” But he is committed to staying away from more harmful drugs.
“I got away from the drugs that I knew were gonna kill me,” Jelly Roll told the outlet before adding that he hadn’t previously spoken about attending AA meetings as he didn’t want to overshadow the work of the program, or the work of his fellow attendees.
He may have had an uncontroversial start to fatherhood, but Jelly Roll has always prioritized his family. The country singer welcomed his first child, daughter Bailee Ann, with ex-girlfriend Felicia in 2008. At the time, Jelly (real name Jason DeFord) was serving a prison sentence for a drug dealing conviction. “A guard knocks on my […]
“I don’t tell people I go to meetings,” Jelly Roll explained. “It’s not a part of my story that I share because I have so much respect for the men and women in that program that get actually completely sober, that I never want my stuff to get in the way of them.”
In May, Jelly Roll revealed that using marijuana has helped him steer clear of harder drugs.
“I get in trouble for this, all the time, but my stance on marijuana will always be the same,” he said in an interview with Taste of Country that was published on May 24. “I believe marijuana has helped me in so many regards, with my anxiety. This is a hot-button topic, but, truly, marijuana has kept me sober.”
Jelly Roll continued at the time, “I think a world without weed, Jelly Roll’s drinking codeine and popping Xanax and snorting cocaine again. But a world with weed, I’ll be alright.”
Before skyrocketing to fame within the country music world, Jelly Roll was incarcerated for drug dealing. While behind bars, he learned he had become a father to daughter Bailee Ann, now 16.
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After learning about his little girl, Jelly Roll put in the work to get on the right path. He got his GED and was released by the time Bailee turned 2.
Since then, Jelly Roll has advocated to help others stay away from deadly drugs. In January, the artist spoke in front of the U.S. Senate to voice his support for the bipartisan Fend Off Fentanyl Act.
“I was a part of the problem. I am here now standing as a man that wants to be a part of the solution,” he said during his speech. “I brought my community down. I hurt people. I was the uneducated man in the kitchen playing chemist with drugs I knew absolutely nothing about, just like these drug dealers are doing right now when they’re mixing every drug on the market with fentanyl and they’re killing the people we love.”
Taylor SwiftAldara Zarraoa/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management
For the entire duration of the Eras Tour, which kicked off in March 2023, Taylor Swift has performed two surprise acoustic songs at every show.
With the help of an acoustic guitar and an upright piano with flowers painted on it, Swift performs songs that aren’t on the main setlist during the acoustic portion of the show. After initially declaring that she wouldn’t repeat any surprise songs unless she made a mistake, the pop star amended her own rule during a February show in Melbourne.
“I’ve been thinking, I want to be as creative as possible with the acoustic set moving forward. I don’t wanna limit anything and I don’t wanna just say, ‘Oh, if I’ve played a song before I can’t play it again.’ So from now on, I don’t wanna take any paint colors out of the paintbox of colors,” she told the audience at Melbourne Cricket Ground. “I want to be able to play songs more than once if I feel like it, and I wanna be able to make changes to songs.”
Swift has played certain songs during numerous acoustic sets (the Midnights tune “You’re On Your Own, Kid” has been performed a whopping nine times) while others haven’t made the show even once. With just five months left until the Eras Tour wraps up in Vancouver on December 8, it’s possible that some tunes will never have their moment in the spotlight.
Some Swifties have been luckier than others when it comes to the surprise songs set of Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour. Since launching her record-breaking tour in March 2023, Swift has used the penultimate section of her show to perform songs across her entire discography that aren’t included in the concert’s expansive setlist. On occasion, […]
Not counting songs that aren’t featured on any of Swift’s albums — like the 2020 single “Only the Young” or tracks featuring Swift like Big Red Machine’s “Renegade” — there are 17 remaining songs from the pop star’s discography that haven’t been played on the Eras Tour.
Taylor SwiftAldara Zarraoa/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management
With over 30 shows left, Swift still has time to play them all if she wants to, especially since she’s been doing more song mashups recently. During her July 6 performance in Amsterdam, Swift managed to play five surprise songs by performing a mashup of “Sweeter Than Fiction” and “Holy Ground” followed by a mashup of “Mary’s Song (Oh My My My),” “So High School” and “Everything Has Changed.”
However, there are some tunes that Swift is likely to skip altogether. For example, “Soon You”ll Get Better,” which she wrote about her parents’ cancer diagnoses, and “Ronan,” which is about a 3-year-old boy of the same name who died from neuroblastoma in 2011.
Several of Taylor Swift’s famous friends and fans have shown up to shake it off at the singer’s much-anticipated The Eras Tour. The stars of Swift’s “Bejeweled” music video — Este Haim, Danielle Haim, Alana Haim and Laura Dern — were among thousands of fans in attendance at the tour’s opening night in Glendale, Arizona’s […]
Swift has only performed “Soon You’ll Get Better” live once, during a Global Citizen benefit event in April 2020 to raise funds for the World Health Organization’s COVID-19 Solitary Response Fund. She previously told Billboard in August 2019 that she didn’t know if she’d ever play the Lover track live.
“It was hard to write. It’s hard to sing. It’s hard to listen to, for me,” she told the outlet.
“Forever Winter” is another song that might be too difficult to perform live, as some fans have speculated that the song is about Swift processing the loss of her friend Jeff Lang, who died in 2010.
“If I was standing there in your apartment / I’d take that bomb in your head and disarm it,” Swift sings on the Red vault track. “I’d say I love you even at your darkest and / Please don’t go.”
Swift has also steered clear of both “London Boy” and “So Long, London,” both of which are about her ex-boyfriend Joe Alwyn. Swift routinely performs songs about Alwyn during both the main Eras Tour set and the acoustic portion of the show, so it’s possible that one or both of the tunes will be played when she returns to London’s Wembley Stadium in August.
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Swift has made a habit of playing songs about places in the appropriate concert venues. In May, she played “Paris” in the French city of the same name and one year prior she played “Welcome to New York” at MetLife Stadium (which is technically in East Rutherford, New Jersey, but close enough). Therefore, it’s possible that Swift will sing “Florida!!! (feat. Florence and the Machine)” when she returns to Miami in October.
Ethan Miller/TAS23/Getty Images Taylor Swift may be a billionaire, but she’s still a relatable queen. Since embarking on her Eras Tour in March, Swift has floored fans and critics alike with her impressive record-breaking concert, which spans over three and a half hours in length and features the singer performing a set list of 44 […]
As of July 2024, Swift has performed all of her songs from self-titled debut record Taylor Swift, Speak Now (Taylor’s Version), 1989 (Taylor’s Version), Folklore, Evermore and Midnights. After playing “London Boy” at Wembley Stadium on August 16, Swift covered all of her solo songs from Lover, leaving just a collab unplayed. With her acoustic performance of “I Did Something Bad” in London on August 17, Swift has officially played all of her Reputation songs.
Keep scrolling to see every song that Swift has yet to play during the Eras Tour:
Blake Lively and Ryan ReynoldsCindy Ord/Getty Images
Oops, she wore it again! Blake Lively ensured all eyes were on her as she paid tribute to an iconic pop star at the New York premiere of her latest film, It Ends With Us.
Lively, 36, hit the film’s red carpet event at the AMC Lincoln Square Theatre on Tuesday, August 6, rocking the memorable Versace butterfly dress originally worn by Britney Spears in 2002.
The mom-of-four, who attended the event with her husband, Ryan Reynolds, paid tribute to Spears, 42, via an Instagram Story that evening.
“Today’s mood. The ultimate queen who made us all want to sparkle and write and share our stories,” Lively wrote alongside a photo of Spears wearing the gown almost two decades ago. “Britney, us millennials all have a story of a moment, or of years that you made us want to shine and inspire awe, with strength, and joy and immensely hard work. Thank you for your example and your contribution to women telling their stories. So excited about your Biopic and all you have to come.”
Lively, who plays the central character of Lily Bloom in It Ends With Us, a big screen adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s acclaimed 2016 novel, confirmed on the red carpet that the dress did indeed belong to Spears. “It is Britney’s actual dress,” Lively told a reporter for People at the event. “It should be in the Smithsonian or the Met, but it’s on me … I feel so lucky.”
Lively’s red carpet look isn’t the only Spears-inspired throwback sparked by the arrival of It Ends With Us. The film will also honor the singer through the inclusion of her 2003 hit song, “Everytime.”
Britney Spears and Donatella Versace in 2002Franco Origlia/Getty Images
Reynolds, meanwhile, also had some fun with his ensemble on Tuesday, opting for an olive green suit paired with a white floral boutonniere in what appeared to be a tribute to his wife’s onscreen character.
The Deadpool & Wolverine star, 47, proved to be a loyal supporter to his wife, bringing his Marvel costar Hugh Jackman along to join in on the celebrations.
Lively, who shares James, 9, Inez, 7, Betty, 4, and Olin, 18 months, with Reynolds, has maintained a steady stream of stunning floral gowns as she continues her press tour for It Ends With Us, which hits cinemas on Friday, August 9.
Blake Lively has dished many adorable details about her life as a wife over the years, and now, as a first-time mom. Here, Us Weekly compiles the Gossip Girl alum’s cutest quotes about her marriage to her husband, Ryan Reynolds, and their family of three with baby James, on her 28th birthday on Aug. 25.
Taking inspiration from her character, who is a florist, the actress has rocked a number of vibrant frocks, flower purses, beaded ensembles and more.
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One standout look came on Saturday, August 3, when Lively awed in an Oscar de la Renta mini dress featuring embroidered purple flowers at her bust that faded into yellow and orange blooms and almost looked like pressed petals.
She completed her look with purple crystal earrings, more flowers in her hair, purple and blue rings and strappy heels.
Lively is becoming renowned for channeling onscreen characters while hitting the red carpet to promote her films. She most recently nodded to her character Lady Deadpool, clad in a skintight ruby red bodysuit, while attending the Deadpool & Wolverinepremiere in New York on July 22.
Aerosmith announced they are retiring from touring following lead singer Steven Tyler’s vocal injury.
“Steven’s voice is an instrument like no other. He has spent months tirelessly working on getting his voice to where it was before his injury,” the official Aerosmith Instagram account shared on Friday, August 2. “We’ve seen him struggling despite having the best medical team by his side. Sadly, it is clear that a full recovery from his vocal injury is not possible. We have made a heartbreaking and difficult, but necessary, decision – as a band of brothers – to retire from the touring stage.”
The statement continued: “It has been the honor of our lives to have our music become part of yours. In every club, on every massive tour and at moments grand and private you have given us a place in the soundtrack of your lives.”
The band, which is made up of Tyler, Joe Perry, Tom Hamilton, Brad Whitford and Joey Kramer, went on to thank their fans, team and crew for their support. “A final thank you to you – the best fans on planet Earth. Play our music loud, now and always. Dream On. You’ve made our dreams come true.”
Fans were quick to support the band in the comments section. “Thank you so much for 50 years of some of the best rock ‘n’ roll ever written and recorded,” one person wrote, as a second social media user added, “Sad news. Best wishes to Steven, Joe, and the rest of the band. Your legendary music lives on!”
The band’s announcement comes months after Tyler, 76, announced he fractured his larynx in September 2023. Aerosmith postponed their Peace Out: The Farewell Tour after learning that Tyler’s injury was worse than expected.
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Getty Images
“Unfortunately, Steven’s vocal injury is more serious than initially thought. His doctor has confirmed that in addition to the damage to his vocal cords, he fractured his larynx, which requires ongoing care,” the band announced at the time. “He is receiving the best medical treatment available to ensure his recovery is swift, but given the nature of a fracture, he is being told patience is essential.”
The new year is still young, but the calendar is already full of music festivals showcasing artists of all genres — and drawing in the biggest celebs. Festival season is usually characterized by surprise collaborations, major fashion moments and controversy, and 2024 will likely be no different. From Boston to L.A., dozens of different events […]
In February, Tyler opened up about his injury while hosting his annual Jam for Janie Grammys viewing party, sharing, “My throat’s been better, but it is on the mend.”
Tyler later returned to the stage for the first time since his injury in May while surprising fans at the Black Crowes concert in London. At the time, he duetted with lead singer Chris Robinson and sang Aerosmith’s “Mama Kin.”
Halsey chose to be vulnerable in her new “Lucky” music video — but didn’t think her fans would be so hurtful in response.
“My own fans are hands down meaner to me than any other people on the planet,” the singer, 29, wrote via her Tumblr on Tuesday, July 30.
Halsey noted that she was “speaking for all of you, of course,” explaining that her fandom appears to have become harsher since she last released music. (Halsey’s most recent album, If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power, came out in 2021. Three years later she dropped the singles “The End” and “Lucky.”)
“It used to be just a minority that were awful to me and now it seems like a majority have only stuck around to chime in occasionally with their opinion of how much they hate me or how awful I am,” she continued.
The pop star confessed, “It’s hard to want to engage in a space that is completely devoid of any kindness, sympathy, patience; or to be honest human decency. Especially after years of hiding from the interactions for fear that this EXACT thing would happen.”
Halsey admitted that she doesn’t know where to go from here. “I almost lost my life,” she shared. “I am not gonna do anything that doesn’t make me happy anymore. I can’t spiritually afford it.”
When Halsey began battling Lupus SLE and a rare T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder, she said her music was part of what kept her going. “When I got sick all I could think about was getting better so I could come back and be a part of THIS again, but I don’t even know what *this* is anymore,” she continued.
Karwai Tang/WireImage; Robin Marchant/Getty Images Halsey and Avan Jogia are no longer hiding their love. The couple is Instagram official and has no problem packing on the PDA. The duo first sparked romance rumors in September 2023 when they were photographed packing on the PDA during a night out in Los Angeles, according to photos […]
After all the negative comments, she said, “I want to crawl in a hole, and I regret coming back.”
Following a break from music, Halsey made her comeback last month with the release of “The End.” In the song, she opened up about her health journey and gave fans a look at her ups and downs during treatment.
“After 2 years, I’m feeling better and I’m more grateful than ever to have music to turn to,” she wrote via Instagram in June. “I can’t wait to get back where I belong: With you all Singing and screaming my heart out.”
Rich Fury/Getty Images for iHeartMedia
Earlier this month, she once again gave music listeners insight into her lupus and cancer battle with the “Lucky” music video.
The video, however, caused some fans to criticize Halsey for sampling Britney Spears’ single by the same name off her Oops! … I Did It Again album.
In the video, Halsey transported fans to the late ‘90s and early 2000s with her wardrobe and the setting. She also depicts the dark side of fame, like what Spears, 42, was experiencing when she released her hit track.
Before releasing the song, Halsey said she got permission from Spears to include the chorus on her tune. However, Spears seemingly slammed Halsey’s video writing in a since-deleted X post that she felt “harassed, violated and bullied” by the piece.
Britney Spears’ career and personal life have faced a series of ups and downs over the years. Spears first showed off her vocal skills on the singing competition Star Search at 10 years old in 1992. Following a stint on The Mickey Mouse Club, she signed a record deal with Jive Records in 1997 and […]
Spears then quickly issued a statement via X on Friday, July 26, claiming that she wasn’t the one who posted the harsh critique of Halsey’s video. “Fake news !!! That was not me on my phone !!!” Spears explained. “I love Halsey and that’s why I deleted it 🌹 !!!”
Halsey, meanwhile, posted a second message on Tuesday regarding her recent highs and lows. She revealed she was on her way to a PET scan and had chosen to upload “Lucky (Stripped)” even with all the backlash.
“This is the insane irony my life has become,” Halsey wrote, once again reminding her fans, “I’m a person. Not a character in a music video.”
Wiz KhalifaTimothy Norris/Getty Images for Stagecoach
Wiz Khalifa has spoken out after being arrested in Romania for illegal drug possession on Sunday, July 14.
A Romanian anti-organized crime prosecutors organization, DIICOT, claimed Khalifa, 36, whose real name is Cameron Thomaz, was performing at the “Beach, Please!” festival in Costinesti, a summer resort in Romania, when he illegally smoked cannabis on stage.
The organization also claimed to have found the rapper in possession of cannabis in the early hours of Sunday morning, as reported by Page Six.
Khalifa took to social media late Sunday night to address the situation.
“Last nights show was amazing. I didn’t mean any disrespect to the country of Romania by lighting up on stage,” Khalifa wrote via X. “They were very respectful and let me go. I’ll be back soon. But without the big ass joint next time.”
Per Page Six, DIICOT said in a press release on Sunday, “The prosecutors of the Directorate for the Investigation of Organized Crime and Terrorism – Constanța Territorial Service ordered the initiation of criminal proceedings against a defendant (US citizen), investigated for the crime of unlawful possession of drugs risk.”
The release claimed that the “See You Again” musician was found with “over 18 grams of cannabis,” which is considered to be a “risk drug” in Romania, in addition to having “consumed (on stage) another amount of cannabis under the shape of a craft cigarette.”
According to the French news agency Agence France Presse (AFP), as reported by Barron’s, possession of a “risk drug” is punishable by up to ten years in prison.
AFP also reported that Khalifa was taken in for questioning by local authorities on Sunday but was released shortly after.
The news comes after Khalifa revealed earlier this year that he has pulled “up stoned” to parent-teacher conferences for his son, Sebastian, 11.
“I’m pulling up stoned. They expect it,” the rapper quipped during the January 10, episode of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast. “They know what’s up. It’s not like back in the day [where] you’re considered a bad parent if you smoke weed. I’m pretty sure my son smells like weed. I don’t know because I can’t smell it, but I’m pretty sure he smells like pot.”
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Khalifa shares his son, nicknamed “Bash,” with ex-wife Amber Rose.
His recent arrest is not the first. Khalifa was arrested in 2010 and held overnight on drug charges in North Carolina following a concert at East Carolina University in Greenville, according to CBS News.
At the time, police raided the musician’s tour bus while he had been performing on stage, where they found marijuana.
Before the pair became the besties they are today, Carpenter was a longtime fan of Swift. Before dropping tracks like “Nonsense” and “Espresso,” Carpenter posted covers of Swift’s songs on her YouTube page, including “Picture to Burn” and “White Horse.”
In addition to covering Swift’s music, Carpenter also attended several of Swift’s concerts. The former Disney star finally got the chance to connect with the Grammy winner backstage at one of her Reputation shows.
“She had her cats with her,” Carpenter recalled of meeting Swift for the first time in a January 2024 interview with Who What Wear. “I have older sisters, so if anything, it felt like that type of a relationship.”
After that initial meeting, the duo grew close as Carpenter began to make a name for herself in the music industry. After attending the Eras Tour herself in 2023, Carpenter was announced as one of Swift’s openers for her international leg.
Keep scrolling to see Swift and Carpenter’s friendship over the years:
2017
After attending several of Swift’s shows over the years, Carpenter finally got to meet Swift.
November 2021
Four years later, Swift sent Carpenter a Red (Taylor’s Version) package ahead of the album’s release.
“Thank you blondie,” Carpenter wrote via her Instagram Story at the time. “Being 22 is hitting very different right now.”
Taylor Swift and Sabrina CarpenterEmma McIntyre/Getty Images for dcp
August 2022
The singers posed together for a photo at the 2022 VMA after-party.
November 2022
Three months later, Swift and Carpenter both attended the American Music Awards.
February 2023
Swift and Carpenter hung out at the 2023 Grammys afterparty.
May 2023
Carpenter was spotted in the VIP tent for Swift’s Eras Tour show in Philadelphia.
Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor SwiftDon Arnold/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management
June 2023
Swift announced that Carpenter would be joining her for the South American leg of the Eras Tour.
“Really thrilled to tell you this!! Mexico, Argentina and Brazil: We are bringing The Eras Tour to you this year!” Swift wrote via X at the time. Sweet angel princess @SabrinaAnnLynn will be joining us on all of the shows!”
After the news broke, Carpenter opened up about how meaningful the opportunity was given that she was a lifelong fan of Swift.
“Trying to process this but alas I shant. CANT WAIT TO JOIN THE ERAS TOUR IN LATIN AMERICA,” she penned. “Thank u @taylorswift13 u the 1 :’) this is the dreamiest dream come true.”
September 2023
Carpenter and Swift posed together while attending the 2023 VMAs.
October 2023
The “Skin” singer tagged along in Swift’s group outing to cheer on Travis Kelce as the Kansas City Chiefs faced off against the New York Jets.
December 2023
Carpenter was spotted at Swift’s 34th birthday party in New York City.
Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor SwiftDon Arnold/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management
February 2024
After the Latin America shows, Carpenter also joined Swift on the Australian leg of the Eras Tour. While in town, Swift and Carpenter hung out at the Australia Zoo.
At the first show in Sydney, Swift brought Carpenter, who had to cancel her set due to weather, out to perform a duet during the acoustic set. They sang a mashup of “White Horse” and “Coney Island.”
March 2024
After Carpenter wrapped up her leg of the Eras Tour, she penned a thoughtful message for Swift to express her gratitude for the opportunity.
“And the most thank-you’s I’ve ever thank-you’d to Taylor,” she gushed. “I feel so lucky to witness the magic that is you and this tour. There is truly no one like you and there never will be! I love you with all my heart and I will cherish this Taybrina era (and all the eras) till the end of time 💞💞💞”
June 2024
After Carpenter raised eyebrows with her SKIMS — which is owned by Kim Kardashian — campaign, the “Feather” singer shared that she talked to Swift about it given her tumultuous history with the Kardashians star.
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“As much as people want to believe you’re tuned into every little thing, I’m not because I’m constantly working,” she said to Rolling Stone. “In that scenario, I’ve been very, very communicative with her about that situation, and I just love her so much and support her till the end. So it was no weirdness for me, but I know people will just say things because that’s all they have time to do.”
July 2024
As Carpenter continued to dominate the Billboard charts with “Espresso” and “Please Please Please.” Swift congratulated her pal on all her success.
“Summer of Sabrina and may it continue forever 😇,” Swift declared while replying to Carpenter’s Instagram post.
The country music star, 30, has turned the page to a new chapter in her career today, beginning with her new single, “Cowboys Cry Too,” featuring Noah Kahan. The emotional new release comes just weeks after Ballerini subtly announced her upcoming album via Instagram.
“Album: recorded mind: lost dibs: unimpressed,” the singer captioned a collection of photos and videos of her in the recording studio. The upcoming LP is her fifth studio album and follows her 2022 release, Subject to Change.
The new single with Kahan, 27, is an emotional ballad combating the culture of toxic masculinity. Singing from two perspectives of a man and woman, Ballerini and Kahan address the struggles of living “in a world that says ‘saddle up and be a man.’”
“When he’s showing his skin, letting me in, that’s when he’s toughest to me,” Ballerini says in the chorus. “I never knew cowboys cry too.”
Kelsea Ballerini treated the 2024 CMT Music Awards like her runway — and Us is here for it. Ballerini kicked off the awards show at the Moody Center in Austin by packing on the PDA with boyfriend Chase Stokes as the couple walked the red carpet together. The country singer rocked a red David Koma […]
The release comes almost two months after the stars joined forces on the stage of the 2024 Academy of Country Music Awards, where they collaborated by singing her 2023 single “Mountain With a View” and Kahan’s 2022 hit “Stick Season.”
Kahan teased the new song ahead of its release, posting a sneak peek of his verse on the single via Instagram on Wednesday, June 27. “This entire verse is just❤️🩹🥺,” Ballerini commented. “Can’t wait for y’all to hear it.
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Ballerini has been hinting at new music since January. The single is her first release since her 2023 EP, Rolling Up the Welcome Mat. The singer’s boyfriend, Outer Banks star Chase Stokes, has also been sharing his support for her new tunes. The actor replied in the comments section of Ballerini’s Instagram announcement saying, “Ooooh yes. The teases of teases. I can’t wait I can’t wait.”
Kelsea Ballerini and Chase Stokes quickly became a fan-favorite couple after confirming their relationship status. The country singer and the Outer Banks star were first linked in January 2023 after they were spotted together at the College Football Playoff National Championship in Los Angeles. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Subscribe to newsletters Subscribe By […]
The couple was first linked in January 2023 after Ballerini’s split from ex-husband Morgan Evans in August 2022. Ballerini confirmed her relationship with Stokes, 31, in February 2023, and the duo made their red carpet debut in April 2023 at the CMT Music Awards in Austin, Texas.
Ballerini has been open about her new phase of life in the years following her divorce. Now with a new relationship, a new gig as a coach on NBC’s The Voice and new music on the way, the country singer is reminding fans “this ain’t [her] first rodeo.”
Morgan Wallen and Eric Church‘s shared appreciation for nature served as the main inspiration behind their latest collaboration.
The country music stars purchased the outdoors brand Field & Stream earlier this year and launched plans to revamp its magazine and website. The duo also announced plans for the inaugural Field & Stream Music Fest festival, which will take place in Winnsboro, South Carolina, this October.
“My grandfather always kept a few of his favorite issues on the dash of his truck, and I all but memorized the stories and pictures,” Church, 47, exclusively shares in the newest issue of Us Weekly. “It’s both an honor and a huge responsibility to be carrying on that legacy for future generations.”
It’s Church’s grandfather who sparked his love of nature. “My grandfather had 100 acres in North Carolina when I was growing up and that land was heaven to us kids,” he explains. “There’s something special about the Appalachia region and the majesty of those mountains — you can’t help but reflect in that environment.”
It’s easy being green! Jane Fonda, Leonardo DiCaprio and more celebrities have made it their mission to make the world a more eco-friendly place. The Oscar winner and longtime activist has made headlines for her involvement in the Fire Drill Friday protests, kickstarted by Greta Thunberg to raise awareness about the dangers of climate change. […]
Wallen, 31, shares his fellow musician’s sentiment, telling Us, “Being outdoors is my favorite place to be. Life moves so fast, and nature forces me to slow down and be grateful for what God has created.”
Their shared attachment to the outdoors helped spark a friendship between the two musicians, who collaborated on the 2023 country track “Man Made A Bar.” Church and Wallen also share similarities as fathers and enjoy spending time outdoors with their kids. (Eric and his wife, Katherine Church, are parents to sons Boone McCoy, 12, and Tennessee “Hawk” Hawkins, 9. Wallen shares his son Indigo, 3, with his ex-girlfriend KT Smith.)
John Shearer/Getty Images for ACM
“[As a kid,] I spent a lot of time outside running around in open spaces,” Wallen tells Us. “I bought a farm with loads of land to give my son the same feeling — space to roam and fish and hunt. As he gets older, I can’t wait to do these things together.”
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Church and Wallen announced their relaunch of Field & Stream, which was first established in 1871, in January. “It is both this responsibility to an American Icon and also to a young boy in his papaw’s truck that will be the compass that guides our steps,” Church captioned an Instagram video of him and Wallen fishing.
In an Instagram post of his own, Wallen wrote, “There’s nothin’ I love more than being with friends around a campfire, on a boat or in a deer stand – and Field & Stream represents all of those to me. Being part of its future is incredible and we want to keep bringing people together outdoors, makin’ memories, for generations to come.”
Church is set to perform at this year’s Field & Stream Music Fest along with some of music’s biggest stars, such as Lainey Wilson, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Riley Green, ZZ Top and more.
