In a moment that blended spiritual leadership with hometown pride, Pope Leo XIV surprised visitors at the Vatican this week by wearing a Chicago White Sox baseball cap.
During his weekly audience at St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, the Chicago-born pontiff connected with attendees unexpectedly by sporting the symbol of his lifelong Major League Baseball team, Daily Mail reported.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, became the head of the Roman Catholic Church following the death of Pope Francis in April. Now leading more than 1.4 billion Catholics around the globe, Pope Leo has begun making his mark less through statements than subtle, personal gestures, like his choice of headwear this week.
The moment occurred during a general papal audience, where the new pope greeted thousands in attendance. Among them was a newlywed couple whose connection to the cap remains unknown. Regardless of who provided it, the image of the pope in Sox gear quickly spread online.
Born in 1955 and raised in Bronzeville, a Chicago neighborhood on the South Side, Pope Leo’s affinity for the White Sox dates back to childhood. Contrary to rumors suggesting he may have supported the rival Cubs, his brother John Prevost has clarified that the pope “was always a Sox fan.”
The official White Sox social media account recognized the moment, posting jokingly, “.@Pontifex representing his favorite squad.” The use of the Pope’s verified handle added to the mix of religious reverence and sports enthusiasm.
Reactions on social media surged almost immediately. One user commented, “Even 3 months ago, you could’ve given me 1,000,000 to 1 odds and I never would’ve taken a bet that THE POPE WEARING A WHITE SOX HAT would happen.”
Another, expressing disbelief, wrote, “As a Chicago area native, I could never have imagined a Chicago Pope.” Skeptics even turned to AI platforms, asking, “@grok is this real?”—prompting friends and followers to verify the circulating images.
Pope Leo's deep ties to the team go beyond photos and social media posts. He attended Game 1 of the 2005 World Series, where the White Sox defeated the Houston Astros 5-3. At the time, he was serving as prior for the Order of Saint Augustine.
To honor that connection, the White Sox organization has installed a tribute seat at Guaranteed Rate Field in Section 140, Row 19, Seat 2—the exact location where he sat during that championship night. Footage from the 2005 broadcast confirms his presence in the crowd.
The Prevost family itself is a mix of baseball allegiances. While Pope Leo's support lies with the Sox, his mother was a Cubs fan, and his father rooted for the St. Louis Cardinals. That variation in loyalties has fueled some of the confusion around his sports background.
The Pope’s fandom has become a point of celebration for White Sox fans during a challenging season. As of Wednesday, the team holds a record of 23 wins and 44 losses, placing them more than 20 games behind first in the American League Central.
Despite the poor performance, fans have leaned into their new spiritual mascot. During a rivalry game against the Cubs on May 16, several attendees dressed as Pope Leo XIV. On June 6, T-shirts featuring his image were seen for sale outside the ballpark.
The team’s top hitter so far is Miguel Vargas, batting at .233, while star outfielder Luis Robert Jr. is slumping with a .184 average. Team morale among fans, however, has received an unexpected lift from the pontiff.
Amid the buzz around their newest high-profile fan, the White Sox organization is undergoing a significant transition. Current owner Jerry Reinsdorf is preparing for a phased sale of the team to Justin Ishbia, the brother of Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia.
Beginning in 2025 and continuing into 2026, Ishbia will make financial contributions as a limited partner to support operational costs and help reduce debt. A clause allows him to assume majority control between 2029 and 2033.
While a papal endorsement won’t fix bullpen issues or raise batting averages, the publicity resulting from Pope Leo's cap gesture has brought a breath of fresh air to an otherwise dismal season for the franchise.
For some, the moment served as a reminder of the papal background before ascending to the global spiritual stage. His appearance in fan gear emphasized that even a global religious figure can carry pride from a local community.
Though brief and unexplained, the gesture inserted new energy into a weary fan base. It also provided a humanizing glimpse into the life of a man now viewed as one of the world’s most influential voices.
Pope Leo XIV’s choice of headwear may not have aligned with traditional Vatican protocol, but it certainly struck a chord with Chicagoans—and, clearly, with baseball fans everywhere.
Music icon Cher paid tribute to her late mother, Georgia Holt, on what would have been her 99th birthday with a moving social media message on Monday, June 9.
According to People, the singer reflected on her mother’s legacy and shared personal memories as she continues to remember Holt’s influence nearly three years after her passing in December 2022.
Holt, an actress and singer known for a role on the classic television show "I Love Lucy," died at 96 after being hospitalized with pneumonia months earlier. Cher first announced her death on December 11, 2022, in a brief but emotional post on X, formerly known as Twitter, writing, “Mom is gone,” accompanied by a sad-face emoji.
This week, Cher returned to X to express her ongoing connection with her late mother. On what would have been Holt’s 99th birthday, the Grammy winner wrote, “Hey 🌟Mom🌟Happy 🎈🎂Day. Sometimes I Talk 2 U, Need 2 Ask U a Question, Or I FORGET, & THINK, OH..GOTTA CALL MOM.” She ended the message with a sentimental thought: “MOM, I AM WHO I AM … BECAUSE OF U💋Me.”
The tribute illustrates the deep bond Cher and Holt shared during Holt’s life. Their relationship extended beyond personal life into their careers, including joint television appearances and creative collaborations.
In 1978, Holt made a vocal cameo in "Cher...Special," a TV variety show headlined by her daughter. That same closeness was eventually captured in a documentary produced by Cher titled Dear Mom, Love Cher, which aired on Lifetime in 2013.
The film explored Holt’s life through exclusive interviews and archival footage. It also documented her complicated personal life, including her marriages and her roles as mother to Cher and her sister Georganne LaPiere, and grandmother to Chaz Bono and Elijah Blue Allman.
Promoting the documentary, Holt and Cher appeared together on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" in April 2013, showcasing their candid and affectionate relationship to a national audience. Their bond left a lasting imprint on Cher’s life and continues to influence her today.
The singer delved even deeper into her mother’s story in Cher: The Memoir, Part One, released in November 2024. In the book, she recounted a surprising anecdote about one of Holt’s former husbands, real estate magnate Joseph Harper Collins.
According to Cher’s memoir, Holt met Collins in 1957 at a party and shortly after became engaged. Though the couple moved into his Beverly Hills mansion with Cher and Georganne, Holt later ended the marriage. Cher recalled that her mother said Collins was "too wild in the bedroom" for her tastes.
Despite the divorce, Collins made sure Holt and her daughters were well taken care of. As part of their settlement, he arranged a new home and a housekeeper for the family. These glimpses into Holt’s personal life provide a more vivid picture of the world Cher grew up in.
Following her mother’s death in 2022, Cher openly shared cherished memories of childhood. She recalled that Holt and her friends were "so beautiful" during those early years. She also admired her mother’s fashion sense, describing her as an "amazing dresser."
These reflections continue to resonate as Cher honors Holt’s legacy in both public tributes and her memoir. The affection she carries for her mother was evident not only in recent posts but in how she has chosen to keep her memory alive over the years.
Georgia Holt leaves behind a family that includes her two daughters and two grandsons, all of whom have impacted the worlds of music, entertainment, and activism. Holt herself led a multifaceted life in entertainment, creating a legacy that Cher often credits as foundational to her success.
Cher’s frequent tributes serve as reminders of her deep respect for her mother’s resilience and influence. Through interviews, music, and film, she continues to honor Holt’s journey and the role she played in shaping her daughters’ lives.
Even after nearly three years since her death, Holt’s presence remains strong in Cher’s life. Her message on June 9 not only commemorated her mother’s birthday but served as a window into the lasting emotional threads that connect them.
Cher’s expressions of love—through heartfelt words and visible dedication—paint a portrait not only of a grieving daughter but of a woman proud of the mother who helped shape her spirit and career. Holt’s impact remains present.
Brian Wilson, the pioneering musician who shaped the sound of the Beach Boys and modern pop music, has died at age 82.
Wilson's passing on June 11, 2025, led to tributes from family, longtime bandmates, and musical legends who honored his innovation, artistry, and enduring cultural influence, USA Today reported.
The announcement of Wilson’s death was made public on Wednesday. He is survived by daughters Carnie and Wendy from his first marriage, as well as five adopted children with his second wife, Melinda Ledbetter, who had stood by him throughout his later years.
Mike Love, Wilson’s cousin and a founding member of the Beach Boys, offered a heartfelt tribute in the wake of his passing. Recalling their shared childhood and music-making beginnings, Love said the world had lost a genius and he had lost both family and a creative partner.
“From the first time we sang together as kids in my living room," Love wrote, "I knew there was something otherworldly in him.” He reflected on the ups and downs of their decades-long relationship and concluded, “Brian, you once asked, ‘Wouldn’t it be nice if we were older?’ Now you are timeless.”
Al Jardine, another original Beach Boy, honored Wilson with warm memories, calling him his “friend,” “classmate,” and “brother in spirit.” Jardine added that it brought comfort to imagine Wilson reunited with their late bandmates, Carl and Dennis, harmonizing once more.
Wilson’s daughter, Carnie, part of the pop group Wilson Phillips, expressed heartbreak in an emotional Instagram post. “My father @brianwilsonlive was every fiber of my body,” she wrote, sharing that the pain of losing him was deeper than anything she had ever known.
She described their soul connection as everlasting and imagined him now “playing the piano for Grandma Audree, his mom.” Her tribute also emphasized the legacy Wilson leaves behind, with millions remembering his music forever.
The Wilson family released a statement on Wednesday, asking for privacy as they mourned. “We are at a loss for words,” they shared, acknowledging the deep grief that followed his death.
Paul McCartney, speaking through comments quoted by musician Mike Portnoy, credited Wilson and the Beach Boys’ album “Pet Sounds” with inspiring the Beatles' “Sgt. Pepper.” McCartney called "God Only Knows" one of the most beautiful songs ever created.
Bob Dylan also offered condolences, saying he had admired Wilson’s brilliance for many years. Ronnie Wood, reflecting on a difficult week, lamented the simultaneous loss of Wilson and fellow music legend Sly Stone.
Elton John recalled both personal and professional memories, including Wilson's performance of "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" at a 2003 tribute concert and the collaborations on each other’s music. John called Wilson a “true giant” of songwriting who transformed the art form.
Carole King described Wilson as her friend and creative sibling. She said that though the world will grieve his passing, his songs remain a constant gift to audiences everywhere.
John Cale of the Velvet Underground emphasized that Wilson's influence extended far beyond the surf music the Beach Boys are known for. He praised Wilson’s sophistication in blending pop sensibilities with experimental innovation.
Sean Ono Lennon described Wilson as “our American Mozart,” noting the impact his music had on his own life. Lennon remembered Wilson as kind and generous, calling him a one-of-a-kind visionary from another world.
Mark McGrath, lead singer of Sugar Ray, reflected on being truly heartbroken over the loss. He encouraged fans to find solace in Wilson’s music, which continues to bring joy and comfort.
Todd Sucherman of Styx said it was hard to picture a world without Brian Wilson, sharing that Wilson’s influence had played a role in shaping the life he built with his wife.
John Cusack, who portrayed Wilson in the award-winning biopic "Love & Mercy," remembered the musician as someone with an “open heart” and a divine gift for hearing harmonies. Cusack praised Wilson's ability to be vulnerable about his mental health struggles, saying it was a triumph of love and endurance.
Universal Music Group Chairman Sir Lucian Grainge said Wilson was among the most talented singer-songwriters in recorded history. Furthermore, he said Wilson’s studio innovations transformed the way producers create music and noted that his compositions captured the spirit of youth and longing.
Meanwhile, Mike Portnoy expressed shock upon hearing the news, calling Wilson’s passing monumental for the music community. He also echoed sentiments from other artists who recognized Wilson’s unique connection to his late brothers, Dennis and Carl.
Amid all the outpouring of grief, one truth rings clear: Brian Wilson was more than a musician. Indeed, he was a generational force, whose harmonies filled not only records but lives. His voice, arrangements, and artistic courage reshaped music—and that legacy will sing forever.
Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom are reportedly heading toward a breakup, with insiders claiming the couple plans to separate after Perry finishes her current “Lifetimes” tour in December.
According to Page Six, the pop star’s disappointing album reception and critical tour reviews have allegedly contributed to friction in her relationship with actor Bloom, though the two continue to publicly present a united front.
Perry’s “Lifetimes” tour, which began on April 23, is scheduled to conclude on December 7. Between now and then, sources indicate the couple is preparing for the next phase of their relationship, potentially parting ways. One source told Page Six that the couple is expected to end things once the tour wraps later this year.
“It’s over,” the source said, adding that the couple is waiting until the tour ends to make the split official. Despite ongoing public appearances, including Bloom’s presence at Perry’s Blue Origin spaceflight, speculation continues about a growing emotional distance behind the scenes.
The strain reportedly intensified following the lukewarm reception of Perry’s latest album, “143.” Released during the tour cycle, the album has received critical and public reactions that sources close to the couple claim have left Perry feeling discouraged and anxious.
A source said that Perry experienced significant frustration due to the poor reception of “143,” noting the impact on her well-being. “It made her very stressed,” the source told the publication. While Bloom was said to be patient and supportive, the resulting tension added to existing challenges in their partnership.
Additional pressure came from less-than-glowing tour reviews. Another insider noted that some reception to the live performances further strained their communication. The source explained that the disappointing feedback caused emotional ripple effects in the pair’s relationship dynamic.
Bloom, who has been seen spending time in Miami in recent weeks, has reportedly been managing his own space amid rising tension. Sources have not indicated whether his time away directly relates to the relationship, but the separation in location added to the rumors of a growing divide.
Perry and Bloom first crossed paths in 2016 during a Golden Globes after-party. Their romance unfolded in the public eye, culminating in a Valentine’s Day engagement in 2019. However, before that milestone, the duo experienced a temporary breakup in 2017, narrowly avoiding a permanent split.
In a 2024 interview on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, Perry reflected on their initial connection and the difficulties they faced early on. She revealed that during the early months, their emotional states weren’t aligned. She said Bloom had just completed a spiritual transformation, while she was reeling from a previous relationship, needing to “swim in a different pond.”
The couple welcomed their daughter, Daisy Dove, on August 26, 2020. Since then, Perry and Bloom have been candid about parenthood and its complexities, including how their emotional dynamics might affect their daughter.
Perry has discussed their parenting style, saying their emotional intensity is something Daisy absorbs. She described their personalities as “fire, fire, fire,” noting that the impact on their daughter is something they remain aware of.
They have taken steps to strengthen their bond through couples therapy, aiming to navigate emotional and creative challenges. These issues were also referenced in a 2023 Flaunt magazine interview with Bloom, where he detailed how their different artistic worlds sometimes clash.
“Her pool is not a pool that I necessarily understand,” Bloom said of Perry’s music career. “And I think my pool is not a pool that she necessarily understands.” He explained that these differences occasionally create compatibility challenges, particularly when emotions and egos are involved.
Bloom emphasized that while difficulties exist, both partners remain aware of how special their connection is. He described their relationship as unique and full of energy, highlighting their mutual appreciation despite differences.
Similarly, Perry told People in 2024 that when they argue, tensions escalate quickly but dissipate just as fast. “It’s like, ‘La la la la la, I love you. Alright, let’s move on,” she said, suggesting neither carries resentment for long.
The couple’s efforts to maintain harmony amid career hurdles underscore their complexity. As they near what insiders describe as a potential split, observers remain focused on how the tour’s conclusion may shape their next chapter.
R. Kelly’s legal team has filed an urgent request for his release from prison after alarming claims that federal officials orchestrated a murder plot targeting the incarcerated singer.
According to People, the June 10 emergency motion alleges that officials within the Bureau of Prisons arranged for another inmate to kill Kelly, prompting demands from his lawyers to place him under house arrest for his safety.
On Tuesday, Kelly's attorney, Beau Brindley, submitted the motion to federal court, asserting his client faces immediate danger while in federal custody. The request seeks temporary furlough, citing a credible threat involving a fellow inmate and alleged involvement by three prison officials.
The motion centers on the testimony of Mikeal Glenn Stine, an inmate who claims he was instructed to murder Kelly. According to Stine, the orders came from three senior members of the Bureau of Prisons while he was incarcerated at the United States Penitentiary in Tucson, Arizona.
Stine describes himself as a former high-ranking member of the Aryan Brotherhood, saying he once held the role of “commissioner,” which he claims gave him authority within the gang to command acts of violence, including beatings, stabbing, and executions.
In his declaration, Stine states that federal officials had previously encouraged him to commit assaults and murders of other inmates. He alleges that the directive to kill Kelly was the latest in a pattern of such orders.
Stine says he was transferred from the prison in Arizona to FCI Butner in North Carolina under the pretense of carrying out this specific mission. Bureau of Prisons records reportedly confirm that he was moved between these facilities as he claims.
Upon arrival at Butner, where Kelly is serving his sentence, Stine alleges a prison official met him with the statement: “You need to do what you came here for.” He says he was told he would be allowed to escape custody and spend his final months free if he succeeded in the task, referencing his terminal cancer diagnosis.
Stine says he monitored Kelly closely for weeks but ultimately decided not to follow through. Instead, he reportedly approached Kelly and disclosed the plot directly to him.
In a step to back his claims, Stine offered to take a polygraph test and provide names of individuals involved in previous violent incidents. His willingness to undergo this testing, according to the motion, supports the authenticity of his allegations.
However, Stine’s history includes over 100 lawsuits and petitions filed in federal court dating back more than twenty years. He was convicted in 2015 for sending threatening letters to a magistrate judge and an assistant U.S. attorney, raising questions about his credibility.
Despite this background, attorney Beau Brindley contends the danger to Kelly is real and substantial. He said, “He is not safe in federal custody. And to keep him in prison while he is under threat like this is cruel and unusual punishment.”
R. Kelly has previously suffered violence while incarcerated, which his legal team referenced to further press the urgency of the new motion. Brindley emphasized that subjecting Kelly to further risks while these threats remain unresolved constitutes a violation of his constitutional rights.
The attorney stated, “Mr. Kelly’s continued incarceration while he knows his life is in jeopardy constitutes cruel and unusual punishment.” The motion seeks immediate action to move Kelly into home detention as a protective measure.
Kelly, 58, is currently serving a 30-year sentence for multiple convictions. These include racketeering, sexual exploitation of minors, forced labor, and violations connected to the transportation of individuals for illegal sexual activities across state lines.
As of this writing, the Bureau of Prisons has not provided an official response to the claims presented in Tuesday’s emergency filing. Requests for comment have reportedly gone unanswered.
Kelly remains in custody at FCI Butner amid growing legal pressure for his release. His legal team hopes the new details provided by Stine will convince the court to take immediate steps to ensure the singer’s safety.
The case continues to unfold as court officials and federal authorities assess the gravity of the allegations and consider possible actions in response to the emergency filing.
Trace Cyrus launched a heated social media attack against his father, country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, accusing him of abandonment and public insincerity.
On June 10, 2025, Trace Cyrus leveled harsh personal accusations at Billy Ray Cyrus over Instagram, criticizing his father’s past decisions and describing him as both “washed-up” and “pathetic", the New York Post reported.
The 36-year-old musician took to Instagram to air grievances against his 63-year-old father, alleging that he skipped a significant family funeral to attend a fashion event in Italy. Trace's grandmother, Loretta Finley—mother of his mom, Tish Cyrus—died in 2020, and according to Trace, Billy Ray never showed up to the service held in Los Angeles.
Trace claimed that even after a private jet valued at $60,000 was arranged for Billy Ray's travel to the funeral, he still chose not to attend. He alleged the singer opted instead to fly overseas for a fashion show while still married to Tish Cyrus at the time.
“He flew to Italy for a fashion show but wouldn’t come to LA for Mammie’s funeral while he was still married to my mom,” Trace wrote on Instagram. Moreover, he added that the private jet was secured by one of his sisters, saying, “Even after his daughter got him a 60k private jet like he demanded, then he still didn’t come.”
The funeral took place nearly two years before Billy Ray and Tish finalized their divorce in April 2022. That split ended their nearly three-decade-long marriage, during which Billy Ray adopted Trace and his sister, Brandi.
Trace’s emotional posts touched not only on family abandonment but also on career and personal image. He mocked his father for what he described as poor fashion and grooming choices, writing, “Why does he think that homeless hairstyle looks good?”
The artist didn’t hold back in detailing his disappointment. “You’re the lamest man to ever walk planet Earth,” he wrote, later continuing, “Honestly embarrassed to ever have considered you my idol.”
Underlying the criticism was a broader declaration of severed ties. Trace clarified his lack of interest in reconciliation, stating, “No, I’m past the point of even caring if I ever speak to him again.”
Trace also referred to past concerns shared among his siblings about Billy Ray’s well-being. In an earlier January 2025 post, he wrote, The girls have been genuinely worried about you for years, but you’ve pushed all of us away.”
He continued in that earlier message, “It seems this world has beaten you down and it’s become obvious to everyone but you.” That post was also marked by frustration over Billy Ray’s performance at the second inauguration of President Donald Trump, which Trace criticized at the time.
Billy Ray and Tish share five children: Miley Cyrus, 32; Brandi Cyrus, 38; Braison Cyrus, 31; Noah Cyrus, 25; and Trace. While Billy Ray adopted Brandi and Trace when he married Tish in 1993, his biological children with her include Miley, Braison, and Noah.
Meanwhile, Billy Ray Cyrus has not responded publicly to Trace’s recent critiques. Despite the public outcry from his son, his social media activity on June 10 focused on celebrating his girlfriend, actress Elizabeth Hurley.
The couple, who were first romantically linked in April 2025, made their red carpet debut in Rome last month. On Tuesday, Billy Ray shared a tribute on Instagram, calling Hurley the “love of my life” as she celebrated her 60th birthday.
While Trace directed his frustration toward past personal events, Billy Ray's posts did not indicate acknowledgment. Reached out to for comment by The Post, Billy Ray did not immediately respond.
In the latter portions of the Instagram posts, Trace made broader statements about integrity, self-worth, and faith. “The best thing to come from your downfall is it made me go into beast mode,” he wrote, suggesting increased personal motivation.
He added, “I refuse to be a washed-up, delusional, evil person when I’m old like you.” In closing, Trace offered a call for spiritual reflection, writing, “Christ is King. Get right with God. You need it.”
Though the public feud highlighted long-standing family tensions, Trace showed little interest in reconciliation, saying, “I had hope at one point, but I’m convinced he’s finally a lost cause.”
He added one final assessment of their relationship, stating, “There’s nothing left to learn from him except his mistakes.”
The high-profile $400 million defamation lawsuit brought by actor-director Justin Baldoni against actress Blake Lively and actor Ryan Reynolds has been dismissed in full by a federal judge.
According to Fox News, A U.S. district court ruled that Lively’s sexual harassment allegations were legally protected and Baldoni’s amended defamation claims lacked sufficient legal merit.
On Monday, U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman issued the ruling, ending months of litigation following conflicts that emerged during the fallout from the 2023 release of the film “It Ends With Us,” which starred both Lively and Baldoni. In December, Lively filed a formal complaint with the California Civil Rights Department accusing Baldoni and producer Jamey Heath of sexual harassment and misconduct.
That complaint later evolved into claims filed in federal court, alleging sexual harassment, retaliation, and emotional distress. In response, Baldoni submitted a countersuit in January, accusing Lively of fabricating the allegations as part of a “reputational smear campaign” to protect her public profile amid growing controversy over the film’s promotion.
Judge Liman ruled that Lively’s statements, made as part of her civil rights complaint, were protected under the law and did not qualify as defamatory. “The Wayfarer Parties have not alleged that Lively is responsible for any statements other than the statements in her CRD complaint, which are privileged,” Liman wrote in the decision.
The court likewise dismissed Baldoni’s claims against others named in the amended complaint, including Lively’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, Lively’s publicist Leslie Sloane, and The New York Times. According to the ruling, there was insufficient evidence to suggest that those individuals or entities knew the statements were false or acted with reckless disregard for their truthfulness.
Judge Liman stated that “the Wayfarer Parties’ additional claims also fail,” and concluded decisively that the entire amended lawsuit “must be dismissed in its entirety.”
Lively first made her claims public in December 2024, filing them with California regulators before pursuing them in a federal forum. She alleged sexual harassment and retaliation after her collaboration with Baldoni on the set of “It Ends With Us.” The film and its press tour drew significant attention, placing a spotlight on the film’s key personnel.
After Lively’s accusations surfaced, Baldoni quickly filed a counterclaim in January 2025. That suit suggested that her motives were rooted in deflecting attention from the backlash surrounding the film’s promotion.
During a March legal filing, Lively's attorneys argued that Baldoni’s lawsuit was “a blunt public relations instrument” meant to discredit her for speaking out. The document further stated that none of the claims in the amended complaint resembled a valid legal argument under current defamation law.
In addition to Lively, the lawsuit named Reynolds and several other parties, alleging they made damaging public statements. However, Judge Liman ruled that there were no adequate grounds to show that any of the accused had serious doubts about the truth of what they were communicating.
“The Wayfarer Parties have alleged that Reynolds and Sloane made additional statements accusing Baldoni of sexual misconduct,” Liman wrote, but emphasized that Baldoni’s legal team did not establish that those parties could have known the allegations were false, a requirement for a defamation claim to proceed.
Statements attributed to The New York Times regarding the conflict were also ruled non-actionable. Baldoni’s team alleged the media outlet suggested the allegations were part of a smear campaign, but failed to tie those statements to intentional malice.
Following the dismissal, legal representatives for Lively called the ruling a complete legal and personal win. Attorneys Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb said, “Today’s opinion is a total victory and a complete vindication for Blake Lively,” also mentioning Reynolds, Sloane, and The New York Times as having been “dragged into” the lawsuit.
The attorneys also characterized the lawsuit as a “sham,” stating, “As we have said from day one, this ‘$400 million’ lawsuit was a sham, and the Court saw right through it.”
They further noted their intention to pursue attorneys’ fees, along with potential damages against Baldoni and other affiliated parties, saying, “We look forward to the next round” of legal proceedings.
Although the claims were broadly dismissed, Judge Liman left open a narrow door for Baldoni’s legal team to file a new complaint. He granted a deadline of June 23 for them to potentially bring forth arguments limited to claims of tortious interference and breach of implied contract.
At earlier junctures in the case, both parties had opposed mediation and discovery processes, as confirmed by a February court filing. This likely contributed to the Court’s decision to resolve matters through legal arguments rather than negotiated settlements.
In an earlier stage of the proceedings, Lively had voluntarily withdrawn her claim of emotional distress, though other aspects of her complaint remained active until they were resolved through Monday’s ruling.
Sly Stone, the trailblazing musician behind one of America's most groundbreaking funk bands, has died at age 82.
According to ABC News, the multi-instrumentalist and founder of Sly and the Family Stone passed away on June 10, 2025, following a lengthy illness, leaving behind a transformative musical legacy that redefined American popular music.
Born Sylvester Stewart in 1943 in Texas, Stone grew up in a deeply musical family after relocating with his parents and siblings to the San Francisco Bay Area. He was the second of five children and got his start performing gospel music with his siblings during his youth.
In the early 1960s, he became a radio disc jockey in the Bay Area, known for spinning diverse records from British rock acts to American soul. This eclectic background informed the mixed-genre blend that would later characterize his music.
Sly and the Family Stone officially formed in 1966, combining elements of funk, rock, soul, and psychedelia. The band included his brother Freddie Stone on guitar and his sister Rose Stone on vocals and keyboards. Younger sister Vaetta occasionally joined them onstage as a vocalist.
The group quickly gained a reputation for its multi-racial and multi-gender lineup, which stood out in the turbulent cultural climate of the 1960s. Their debut album, “A Whole New Thing,” dropped in October 1967 but initially received little widespread acclaim.
The breakthrough came that same year with the release of “Dance to the Music,” a single that climbed to No. 8 on the Billboard Pop chart. It marked a turning point, offering a simpler and more accessible sound to a broader audience.
“I knew the music worked, but I didn’t know if people would get it,” Stone recalled in a 2023 interview. “'Dance to the Music' came out as a simpler version, and more people understood that."
The band’s 1969 album “Stand!” propelled them into the mainstream, including hits like “Everyday People,” which reached No. 1 on the Billboard chart. Another single, “Hot Fun in the Summertime,” followed closely behind, peaking at No. 2.
Sly and the Family Stone’s performance at Woodstock in August 1969 solidified their cultural impact. The band played a 3:30 a.m. set that included their most iconic songs and energized the sleepy festival crowd.
Despite their growing success, behind-the-scenes tensions and substance abuse began to take their toll. Inconsistent performances and internal discord eroded the band’s cohesion throughout the 1970s.
Stone was candid about his battles with drugs, admitting in his memoir “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” to long-term dependence on substances like cocaine and PCP. These challenges coincided with a decline in commercial and critical success for both the band and his solo career.
One of Stone’s most memorable personal moments came in 1974 when he married model Kathy Silva onstage at Madison Square Garden. They had a son, Sylvester Jr., but separated two years later.
In addition to Sylvester Jr., Stone had two daughters—Phunne, born in 1976, and Novena Carmel, born in 1982. His later years were spent largely out of the public eye, punctuated by occasional appearances and tributes.
Sly and the Family Stone were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993. Decades later, he returned to center stage during the 48th Annual Grammy Awards in 2006, marking his first major performance in years.
Questlove, drummer for The Roots, recently directed a documentary titled “Sly Lives!” which premiered in February 2025. It explored both the brilliance and the personal challenges that defined Stone’s career.
“Instead of saying, ‘He became an addict,’ we wanted to focus more on what events in life make you go there,” Questlove said. “He invented the alphabet for which we write many of the books, but the culture doesn't know."
George Clinton praised the band during their Hall of Fame induction, calling them "the greatest funk band that ever was," and stated that Stone was “probably the single greatest writer" he could recall.
Before his passing, Stone completed a screenplay about his life, which his family confirmed would eventually be shared publicly. A biographical film based on his journey is currently in development.
“In a testament to his enduring creative spirit,” his family said, “Sly recently completed the screenplay for his life story, a project we are eager to share with the world in due course."
Stone died peacefully on June 10, 2025, at 82, with his three children, a close friend, and extended family by his side. He had battled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other health issues over the years.
“While we mourn his absence,” his family shared in a public statement, “we take solace in knowing that his extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come.”
“We extend our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers during this difficult time,” the family added. “We wish peace and harmony to all who were touched by Sly’s life and his iconic music.”
Pop superstar Taylor Swift has filed a court-ordered restraining order against a man she says repeatedly showed up uninvited at her Los Angeles residence.
According to the Wrap, Swift alleges that over the past year, the man—Brian Jason Wagner of Colorado—stalked her, claimed falsely that they had a child together, and registered her private address as his own with a government agency.
On Monday, Swift formally requested a temporary restraining order against Wagner, a 45-year-old former inmate from Colorado. The complaint was filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court and cites a series of unwanted visits and threatening behavior beginning in mid-2024.
According to court documents, Wagner made five attempts to approach Swift’s Los Angeles home. Swift says Wagner falsely stated that they were romantically involved and shared a child, despite having no real or alleged relationship with her.
Three of those visits reportedly occurred in July 2024. During one incident, witnesses said Wagner was holding a glass bottle, which security found concerning due to its potential to be used as a weapon.
Swift’s security team stated that Wagner's claims were entirely fabricated and unrelated to any known facts. They further noted his behavior appeared to be disconnected from reality and escalating in frequency and intensity.
The restraining order application alleges Wagner also misled the California Department of Motor Vehicles. He reportedly changed the address on his driver’s license to Swift’s private residence.
Swift emphasized in her declaration that she has never shared her home address publicly or with Wagner. This development intensified concerns about how Wagner discovered the location of her home and why he continued to return there.
“I do not share publicly where I reside and have never shared my address or the location of my Los Angeles residence with Mr. Wagner,” Swift stated in a signed court declaration. “Therefore, the fact that Mr. Wagner has determined where I reside and visited the property several times, refusing to leave and claiming to need access, makes me fear for my safety and the safety of my family.”
Security personnel also reported that Wagner sent inappropriate and threatening messages to Swift’s staff. These messages, coupled with his physical appearances at the property, presented a consistent pattern of harassment.
While serving time in prison, Wagner reportedly began sending Swift detailed letters. The messages included romantic fantasy accounts and entirely fictional narratives about her personal life.
Swift said she has never spoken to, met, or communicated with Wagner in any manner. “There is absolutely no legitimate reason for him to be attempting to contact me or my staff, to approach my home, or to make representations that he lives there,” she added.
The temporary restraining order handed down on Monday requires Wagner to stay at least 100 yards away from Swift. This restriction also applies to her home, her places of business, and her vehicle.
The court will review the matter in a hearing scheduled for June 30 at the Superior Court of California in Los Angeles County. Judges will evaluate whether to make the protective order permanent or consider additional legal actions.
In another section of her filing, Swift warned that Wagner’s behavior appeared to be escalating. “The fact that both of these recent visits and Mr. Wagner’s inappropriate and threatening communications to my staff about me have escalated in recent weeks creates a fear of imminent harm,” she said.
In a groundbreaking move, X, the social media giant led by Elon Musk, has forged a partnership with Polymarket, a prediction market platform that stunned the world by outpacing traditional pollsters in forecasting the 2024 U.S. presidential election results.
According to the Washington Examiner, this collaboration designates Polymarket as X’s official prediction market partner, focusing on data sharing with X’s artificial intelligence division and aiming to transform how real-time information is delivered through innovative integrations.
Polymarket operates as a unique online platform where users can wager on the outcomes of various events by purchasing “yes” or “no” positions on topics ranging from political races to global conflicts. The platform has built a reputation for precision, particularly after its accurate call on the 2024 presidential election. Its track record also includes successful predictions in prior electoral contests, often surpassing conventional surveys.
This isn’t the first time betting markets like Polymarket have demonstrated their predictive prowess. Their ability to aggregate collective insights through financial stakes has often provided a clearer picture of public sentiment than traditional polling methods. Polymarket’s recent spotlight moment came with its spot-on projection of the 2024 election outcome, cementing its credibility.
The partnership with X marks a significant milestone for Polymarket, elevating its status by aligning with one of the internet’s most influential platforms. As part of this deal, Polymarket will share data with X, including with its AI-focused wing, to enhance technological and informational synergies. This move signals a shift toward blending predictive analytics with social media dynamics.
X’s leadership has expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting Polymarket’s role in cutting through misinformation. X CEO Linda Yaccarino noted the platform’s commitment to clarity. She emphasized the potential for creative advancements through this alliance.
“Polymarket ensures transparency through its prediction markets, and has grown into a staple source of real-time information for many X users,” Yaccarino said. “We are pleased to partner with Polymarket and look forward to bringing our data and technology to Polymarket users through a range of creative product integrations.”
Similarly, X’s business account celebrated the partnership, underscoring the value of prediction markets in distilling complex issues. “In a sea of noise, prediction markets deliver clarity through a single, powerful signal: price,” the account stated. It also praised Polymarket as a leading authority in forecasting major events and trends.
Polymarket’s scope extends beyond politics, allowing bets on diverse subjects that capture public interest. For instance, users can speculate on the probability of a ceasefire in Ukraine’s ongoing conflict, currently pegged at 27 percent. They can also wager on personal reconciliations, such as whether Elon Musk and Donald Trump might mend ties by a specific date, with odds at 18 percent.
Polymarket CEO Shayne Coplan echoed the excitement, framing the partnership as a fusion of truth-seeking entities. “Proud to announce Polymarket’s partnership with X and its AI division as their Official Prediction Market Partner,” Coplan said. “The two top truth-seeking apps on the internet are stronger together.”
He also hinted at a broader vision for the collaboration. “Welcome to News 2.0,” Coplan added, suggesting a transformative approach to how information is curated and shared.
The integration of Polymarket’s betting data with X’s vast user base and AI capabilities could redefine how news is consumed. This partnership aims to leverage predictive insights to provide a more immediate and accurate reflection of public opinion on unfolding events.
For X, this alliance aligns with its mission to serve as a hub for real-time discourse and information. By tapping into Polymarket’s predictive tools, X may offer users a unique lens through which to view breaking news and cultural shifts. The potential for product innovations stemming from this deal remains a key area to watch.
While betting markets like Polymarket are not without controversy due to their gambling nature, their accuracy in forecasting outcomes cannot be ignored. This partnership with X could further legitimize such platforms as credible sources of insight in an era of information overload.
As this collaboration unfolds, it will be intriguing to see how Polymarket’s data influences X’s ecosystem. The melding of predictive markets with social media might just herald a new chapter in digital news delivery, offering users a fresh way to engage with the world’s most pressing issues.