Historians recently uncovered an intriguing piece of history beneath one of America's most iconic monuments, the Lincoln Memorial, where they found a drawing of silent film star Theda Bara.
According to the New York Post, A clandestine sketch of Theda Bara alongside other historical graffiti has transformed the Lincoln Memorial’s undercroft into a secret gallery of early 20th-century culture.
The sketch, hidden 45 feet below the Memorial's towering statue of Abraham Lincoln in its undercroft, portrays a woman with dark, defined makeup and a cigarette, resembling Theda Bara, a renowned actress known for her risqué roles in silent films. This discovery provides a fascinating glimpse into the personal lives of the workers who built this emblematic structure.
Adjacent to the portrait, the word "Vamp" is inscribed, a nod to Bara's infamous character in the 1915 film "A Fool There Was." The term, derived from her role, later evolved to describe a seductive woman known for exploiting men, integrating itself into the vernacular of the era.
Mutt and Jeff, popular comic strip characters, and a figure believed to be President Woodrow Wilson, who led the country during the memorial’s construction, also appear in sketches throughout the undercroft. These depictions provide a unique lens through which to view the historical and cultural context of the memorial’s creation period, offering a contrast between the revered monument above and the playful scribbles hidden below.
Workers likely created the graffiti with carpenters' pencils, a common tool of that era. Experts suspect one individual, dubbed "Johnny Bosco," created a significant portion of the artwork, as his name repeatedly appears next to many pieces.
Mike Litterst, a spokesperson for the National Mall and Memorial Parks, suggested that a lovesick laborer, inspired by watching Bara's movie, might have sketched her image at his workplace. "In 1915, the same year as Bara's breakthrough and the pouring of the undercroft's foundations, a laborer possibly sketched the film star he had seen," Litterst noted via an email to the Wall Street Journal.
Stephen Potter, a retired regional archaeologist, praised the quality of these historical doodles, noting that some were "extremely well executed." This unexpected canvas of early 20th-century popular culture highlights the craftsmanship of the memorial's builders and vividly portrays their day-to-day lives and influences.
The Lincoln Memorial plans to enhance its visitor experience by opening an undercroft visitor center in July 2026. This new addition will feature a museum, a store, an exhibit section with views of the cathedral-like interior, and an immersive theater presentation. The original graffiti area will remain preserved, though visitors may view reproductions on display.
The integration of these playful elements into the somber narrative usually associated with the Lincoln Memorial challenges traditional perceptions and enriches the historical narrative of the monument. By preserving these sketches, the National Park Service not only safeguards a piece of architectural history but also the personal stories of those who built one of the nation's most revered structures.
Litterst's explanations provide insight into how elements of popular culture find their way into the most unexpected places, ultimately reinforcing the connections between American cultural, historical, and architectural heritage.
Meanwhile, as crews prepare the visitor center, experts expect interest in these sketches and their backgrounds to grow, naturally sparking discussions about the intersection of culture and history.
With the reveal of this discovery, the Lincoln Memorial not only commemorates President Lincoln and his legacies but also becomes a custodian of early 20th-century American culture, reflected through the eyes of ordinary citizens of its time. Consequently, the silent stories of these laborers, now told through their art, offer a new understanding of the human aspects behind the national monuments we hold dear.
Ultimately, this unexpected union of high art and folk expression under one monument’s roof offers a compelling narrative about America's cultural and historical complexity, eagerly awaiting exploration by visitors and historians alike soon.
Ashley St. Clair, a conservative influencer, took to social media on Valentine's Day to reveal she had a child with tech mogul Elon Musk, sparking widespread media interest.
According to the Daily Mail, This disclosure, driven by media pressure, unveiled her struggles to reach Musk amid his public sightings with another partner.
St. Clair's announcement came after she experienced persistent probing by tabloid reporters into her personal life. This forced her to address the situation publicly. She decided to speak out after repeatedly failing to connect with Musk, who ignored her communications in the days leading up to her revelation.
On the eve of St. Clair’s announcement, Musk was observed exiting a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Blair House. He was not alone; Shivon Zilis, a top executive at one of Musk's companies and mother to three of his other children, accompanied him along with their children.
Kylie Kremer, director of a prominent MAGA group, intensified the pressures of St. Clair’s newfound public attention by suggesting that St. Clair disclosed her situation more out of emotional and financial discontent than mere media intrusion. Kremer criticized St. Clair’s handling of the situation, portraying her as someone seeking public sympathy through victimhood.
"Seems like she wasn't getting what she wanted, was emotional & hurt on Valentine's Day & decided to parade her crazy on the front porch thinking people would be sympathetic to her as a 'victim' of a powerful, wealthy man," Kremer openly stated. Her harsh assessment revealed underlying tensions between the two, shaping public perceptions of St. Clair’s motives.
Brian Glicklich, St. Clair's spokesperson, defended her by chastising Kremer’s remarks and suggesting a personal bias had skewed her perspective. According to Glicklich, their past interactions involved disagreements that may have fueled Kremer’s current disdain. He refuted a particularly bold claim reposted by Kremer, which falsely suggested St. Clair’s child was genetically modified using CRISPR technology.
Ashley St. Clair lives in a high-end Manhattan tower apartment, paying between $12,000 and $15,000 a month. She also drives a Tesla Cybertruck, an ironic twist given her now complicated relationship with the company's CEO. These details create a picture of a luxurious lifestyle that faces increased scrutiny following her public statements.
Meanwhile, Musk actively engages online, interacting in ways that affirm his family life with Zilis. He exchanges heart emojis in responses to tweets involving Zilis and their children. However, Musk reacted with apparent surprise when someone directly confronted him on social media about his situation with St. Clair. His succinct "Whoa" in response to a post discussing the news highlighted his shock or perhaps disapproval of the public manner in which the information emerged.
Political commentator Raheem Kassam’s casual dismissal of the scandal, noting that he had been aware of Musk’s relationship with St. Clair for almost a year, underscores a perceived overreaction by the public and media. "Lol I've known about the Ashley St. Clair and Elon stuff for almost a year you guys are hilarious who cares focus on the work," he commented, redirecting the conversation towards what he considers more important issues.
The aftermath of St. Clair’s disclosure continues to ripple through both her personal life and the broader public sphere. As she navigates the challenges of her situation, the discourse surrounding her decision reflects larger debates on privacy, power, and the responsibilities of public figures in their conduct.
As this story unfolds, the focus remains on how Musk will eventually address the situation. With no public comments from him beyond his brief social media interaction, the tech world is watching closely to see how one of its most high-profile figures manages this personal and public challenge.
For now, Ashley St. Clair's Valentine's Day revelation has sparked a complex dialogue on the intersections of technology, politics, and personal life in the digital age, leaving many wondering what the future holds for all involved.
A Delta Airlines flight met disaster as it crash-landed at Toronto's Pearson International Airport, flipping over on the runway.
According to the Mirror, A post-snowstorm incident at Pearson International led to an overturned aircraft, extensive evacuations, and a swift resumption of airport operations.
In the aftermath of a significant weekend snowstorm, Pearson International Airport was amidst extensive cleanup operations to ensure the safety of incoming and outgoing flights. The airport had been working diligently to manage the effects of nearly 9 inches of snow that had blanketed its vast airfield.
Earlier on Monday, the airport's social media highlighted the ongoing efforts to clear the snow. They posted, "Here's a look at part of our airfield this morning as the clean up continues from this weekend's storm," showcasing the scale of their operations which covered approximately 5 million square meters.
The cleanup was critical as the airport was bracing for a busy day, anticipating over 130,000 travelers on about 1,000 flights. Unfortunately, amidst these preparations, a flight coming from Minneapolis experienced a severe misfortune, overturning upon impact with the runway.
Images and videos quickly surfaced on social media, depicting the harrowing scene of the Delta aircraft lying upside down on the tarmac. These visuals captured passengers evacuating the wreckage amidst a chaotic backdrop, highlighting the severity of the incident.
The crash prompted authorities to evacuate all 80 passengers aboard the flight immediately. Emergency services responded swiftly, attending to the victims, including 15 people who sustained injuries. Among them were a child and two passengers who suffered critical injuries.
Medical teams transported some of the injured to local hospitals for further treatment, addressing the various extents of harm they suffered from the accident.
In response to the crisis, airport staff promptly assisted the families of those aboard, providing support and information at the arrivals area. This quick mobilization helped manage the ancillary effects of the crash on passengers and their relatives.
Meanwhile, the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) continued its effort to ensure safety and operational continuity. They confirmed through an update, "Several passengers were taken to local hospitals. GTAA staff are supporting families of passengers at arrivals," which emphasized their ongoing role in crisis management.
The airport, amid this unexpected event, managed to resume normal operations by Monday evening. This rapid return to regular activity was indicative of the effective pre-planning and the swift crisis response by the airport authorities.
The incident raised questions about the adequacy of snow clearance operations and emergency readiness at major airports during severe weather conditions. Pearson's proactive approach in clearing the massive area of the airfield was initially seen as sufficient preparation for the day's heavy traffic.
However, the crash serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of aviation and the critical need for stringent safety measures, especially under adverse weather conditions. The airport's readiness to handle a crisis of this magnitude undoubtedly prevented further injuries and facilitated a quicker normalization of operations.
As the local community and international travelers processed this shocking event, airport operations demonstrated resilience under pressure and successfully managed the crisis. Pearson International Airport handled both the snowstorm's aftermath and the crash's immediate impacts, reflecting the ongoing challenges and responsibilities that major transport hubs worldwide navigate daily.
Investigators are actively examining the cause of the crash to gain insights into how to mitigate or prevent similar incidents in the future. Their work aims to ensure the safety of air travel in Canada and beyond.
In a significant media shift, CNN anchor Amara Walker has bid farewell to the network, signaling an end to a celebrated decade-long tenure.
Amara Walker leaves CNN, driven by changes in the industry and a yearning to explore new professional avenues, Daily Mail reported.
Walker, 43, known for her dynamic presence on CNN's various platforms, announced last Thursday her intentions to leave, with her last appearance on air occurring just a few days later on Sunday. During her time at the network, Walker became a significant figure, lending her expertise both as an anchor and a correspondent on CNN, CNN International, and CNN Max.
Her departure has been poignant, filled with expressions of gratitude toward her team and CNN's leadership. Acknowledging the support she received over the years, Walker has always taken pride in her role, especially as the only Asian American anchor headlining a daily news program at CNN for a period.
Throughout her career at CNN, Walker handled numerous high-stakes reporting jobs, which included covering major breaking news events across the U.S. and the globe. Her commendable work during the Israel-Hamas war earned her an Emmy, highlighting her prowess in handling complex news situations.
Reflecting on her time at CNN during her final broadcast, Walker noted the challenges and rewards of news journalism. "The hours may be grueling, but the work is always rewarding because the truth matters," she articulated, encapsulating the ethos of her journalistic pursuit.
Walker’s parting words were a mix of reflective gratitude and forward-looking optimism. During her sign-off, she urged her viewers and peers to remain vocal and stand firm. "No matter what you see happening around you, don't let anyone make you believe otherwise," she expressed, encouraging a culture of outspokenness and resilience.
Following her announcement, Walker took to her X account to hint at what’s next. She shared her enthusiasm about upcoming opportunities, writing, "It has been a privilege. Can't wait to share my next adventure. Stay tuned...," thus keeping her fans and followers intrigued about her future endeavors.
The reactions to Walker’s departure reflect a mix of respect and anticipation. CNN officially stated, "In Amara’s more than 10-year distinguished and award-winning career at CNN, she has helmed numerous breaking news stories from the anchor desk and reported from the field on major events across the U.S. She’s been a wonderful and deeply respected colleague at CNN."
Her exit occurs alongside those of other notable CNN journalists such as Jim Acosta and Chris Wallace, hinting at larger shifts within CNN, including layoffs and a strategic pivot more towards digital media. This broader restructuring reflects ongoing adjustments within the media landscape, influenced by evolving viewer preferences and technological advancements.
The departure of seasoned anchors like Amara Walker raises questions about the future of traditional broadcasting amidst the rapid rise of digital media. CNN's adaptation strategies, including integrating more digital content and realigning its workforce, spotlight the industry's response to these shifts.
Walker's exit not only marks the end of an era but also underscores the continuous evolution of the media industry. Her decision to leave, influenced by the significant transformations within the sector, highlights the pressures and opportunities that lie ahead for media professionals.
As Walker moves forward to embrace new challenges, her legacy at CNN remains a testament to her impactful presence and the profound influence she wielded. The network, while losing a key figure, continues to adapt to an era where digital media is becoming an increasingly dominant force.
For Walker and many like her, the future holds untapped potential and paths yet to be explored. As the media landscape continues to morph, the roles and platforms for storytelling and journalism are also expanding, offering new avenues for those willing to adapt and innovate.
Amidst these changes, Walker’s career transition reminds us of the importance of adaptability and passion in pursuing professional growth. Her next steps, eagerly anticipated by viewers and professionals alike, will no doubt shape her narrative in the evolving media discourse.
In summary, Amara Walker’s exit from CNN highlights a pivotal moment in her career and the broader TV news industry. As she steps away from the anchor desk to explore new horizons, her journey reflects the ever-changing nature of media and journalism.
A new book offers an intriguing look into the royal marriage of Princess Diana and Prince Charles, focusing on their contrasting preferences at Balmoral.
In "Yes, Ma'am: The Secret Life of Royal Servants," insights from an unnamed gilly suggest that differing leisure preferences were significant in the royal couple's marital breakdown, the Daily Mail reported.
Written by Tom Quinn, the book delves deep into the inner workings of the royal staff's experiences with the royal couple. The gilly, a type of attendant at the royal family's Scottish estate, provides firsthand observations of the frictions in Charles and Diana's relationship.
According to the book, Princess Diana found herself deeply at odds with the traditional outdoor activities at Balmoral, which included hunting and fishing. This contrasted sharply with her preference for more urban environments, despite her upbringing in a family that enjoyed nature.
The discomfort Diana felt at the estate was compounded by Prince Charles's passion for outdoor pursuits like fox hunting, an interest that was ingrained in his lifestyle from an early age.
The couple's differing interests emerged as a shock to Charles, who had not anticipated that Diana’s lack of enthusiasm for country sports would be an issue. It marked the initial stirrings of tension that would grow over the years.
Diana’s witty comment during a fishing outing encapsulates her feelings about these activities. She jokingly suggested, "Darling, wouldn’t it be easier to just use a net!" This incident is one among many that highlighted the divide between their leisure preferences.
The distinct disconnect between the couple was prominently displayed during their honeymoon. While Charles engaged in swimming and painting, Diana hoped for more interactive and conversational activities.
The book details a particularly intense disagreement where Diana’s dissatisfaction with Charles's painting and reading led her to destroy one of his artworks, reflecting the depth of the discord between them.
This clash over how to spend their time was indicative of broader issues in their relationship. The discrepancies in their interests and expectations of married life emerged as a foundational problem that neither could overlook.
Despite popular belief, the gilly points out that these lifestyle disparities, rather than Charles's later infidelity, were the primary catalysts for the early deterioration of their marriage.
Towards Prince Charles, the book paints a picture of a man with a quick temper, yet someone who often regrets his outbursts. According to a source quoted in Quinn's book, "He loses his temper in a split second but usually quickly regrets it."
The narrative also revisits a 2018 biography that suggested Charles had harbored doubts about the marriage even before the wedding, recognizing their fundamental incompatibility. Nevertheless, he felt compelled to proceed, a decision that would come to have profound personal and public ramifications.
These insights into Charles's second thoughts about the marriage add another layer of complexity to the challenges they face.
Gilly’s account challenges the often singular narrative centered around Charles's infidelity, showing how their initial disconnects at Balmoral were symptomatic of broader marital issues.
The uneasy blend of personal preferences at Balmoral not only highlighted existing differences but also set a stage for the escalating tensions that became publicly evident later in their marriage.
By reconstructing these early dynamics between Charles and Diana, Tom Quinn's volume adds a critical dimension to the understanding of why one of the most watched marriages of the 20th century began to unravel just as it was beginning.
Doctors hospitalized Pope Francis with a severe infection following a bout of bronchitis, amid worsening health concerns.
In a recent turn of events, Pope Francis' health issues have escalated, causing alarm within the Vatican and beyond, the Mirror reported.
The Pope, leader of the Roman Catholic Church, initially suffered from bronchitis, which has now developed into a polymicrobial infection causing significant pain and complications. This development led to his admission to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on a Friday, specifically to the respiratory ward.
Following his hospitalization, the severity of his condition prompted changes in his medical treatment. On top of his physical suffering, the Pope expressed concern over his survival prospects.
Due to his health, Pope Francis had to forgo his customary Sunday sermon and other duties, respecting his doctor's stringent medical advice.
This is not the first health setback for the Pontiff; he has been hospitalized four times since his election in 2013. His medical history is fraught with challenges, including the removal of part of his lung in his youth, an operation on his large intestine in 2021, and ongoing mobility issues because of knee ligament problems.
As his health falters, Pope Francis has taken measures to ensure the continuity of his vision for the Church. He has been instrumental in appointing key figures within the Vatican, aiming to influence the future direction of the Church and the selection of its next leader.
In a historic move, he appointed Sister Raffaella Petrini as the first female Governor of Vatican City and extended the term of Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.
Observers see these strategic placements as attempts to secure his progressive legacy, reflecting the reforms that have marked his papacy.
Even from the hospital, Pope Francis remained engaged with the community and the Church. On a Monday, he connected virtually with artists and pilgrims, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the hospital staff for their diligent care.
The Pope addressed attendees of a virtual event, explaining his absence and ongoing treatment for bronchitis, which underscored the seriousness of his health situation.
In a poignant note, the Holy See released a statement conveying the Pope's acknowledgment of the support received, "Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he has been receiving...he prays for them and asks that they pray for him."
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni has indicated that the length of Pope Francis's stay in the hospital remains uncertain. The evolving situation has the Church and its followers on edge, pondering the implications of his potential incapacity or worse.
The Pope's engagement from his hospital bed highlights his resolve to maintain a semblance of normalcy and leadership despite the challenges posed by his health.
As the world watches, the future of Pope Francis's papacy hangs in the balance, with prayers and messages of support flooding in from across the globe, reflecting the widespread concern for his well-being.
Amid a lively weekend at Broadway, former Vice President Kamala Harris's speech at "A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical" garnered significant attention for its perceived confusion.
Following the performance, Harris delivered remarks that critics and social media users described as disordered, earning her comparisons to a "drunk auntie", the New York Post reported.
Harris attended the musical with her husband, Doug Emhoff, as part of a broader theater outing that also included a viewing of "Gypsy." Before her speech, the audience at "A Wonderful World" gave her a standing ovation, setting a positive tone initially.
However, the tone of the responses shifted dramatically once Harris began her speech. Attendees and critics noted the rambling nature of her remarks, which some labeled as "word salad," a term used to describe a string of words that lacks meaningful connection.
Online reactions were swift and critical. Social media platforms buzzed with commentary about Harris's speech. One user posted, "Kamala Harris hit Broadway and, of course, served up her signature word salad. A friendly reminder of what we dodged in the White House." This sentiment was echoed by others who felt that the speech was hard to follow.
Another commenter criticized the audience's reaction, saying, "Literally, the only thing worse than listening to this gobbledygook, is the folks around her nodding and clapping, as if she made sense." Such comments highlight the divide in perceptions of Harris's communication style.
The term "drunk auntie" also appeared across tweets and posts, as users compared Harris’s informal and meandering delivery to the trope of an inebriated relative rambling at a family gathering. This analogy captured the casual nature of her speech as perceived by observers.
Harris appears on Broadway as rumors circulate that she is considering a return to political office. With the current governor of California, Gavin Newsom, facing term limits, speculation has arisen about Harris's potential candidacy.
Donald Trump defeated Harris when she previously ran for president. Since leaving office in January, she has remained relatively low-key about her future political plans, making her public appearances and speeches significant in the eyes of political analysts and the public.
Her speech, despite the criticism, might still play a role in shaping her public persona in anticipation of a new political campaign. The content of her remarks, focusing on rights and vigilance, suggests an ongoing commitment to core democratic values, despite the controversy over her delivery.
During her speech, Harris told the audience, "When we think about these moments where we see things that are being taken, but also let’s see it, you know, nature abhors a vacuum." She continued, discussing the nature of rights and the need for societal vigilance.
"Where there’s a vacancy, let’s fill it. Let us know that the reality is that the progress of our nation has been about the expansion of rights, not the restriction of rights," she said, adding a call to action for maintaining these rights in the face of what she described as a "U-turn."
Her final thoughts mixed optimism with caution: "We have to be clear-eyed. And it doesn’t mean we don’t see the beauty in everything. These things all co-exist, but I believe we fight for something, not against something." While some found these statements disjointed, they reflect Harris's style of weaving together broad themes.
Harris's speech sparks varied reactions, raising questions about how people critique public figures for their communication styles. While some appreciate her thought-provoking, if circuitous, approach, others find it lacking in clarity and directness.
This divergence in reception showcases the challenges faced by politicians in engaging with diverse audiences, who may have different expectations for public speaking.
Ultimately, the feedback from Harris's Broadway speech highlights the complex dynamics of public communication and the intensely scrutinized nature of political figures' every word.
In a surprising discovery, NASA scientists have rediscovered Camp Century, a covert Cold War-era military base, embedded beneath Greenland’s ice, the US Sun reported.
Constructed in the late 1950s, Camp Century was established approximately 100 feet below the surface of a Greenland glacier. This endeavor by the US Army Corps of Engineers involved the development of 21 interconnected tunnels, spanning a total length of over 9,800 feet. Initially, the base served as a publicly known scientific research station.
However, beneath its scientific guise was a hidden objective. Camp Century was the center of Project Iceworm, a top-secret military plan aimed at preparing the United States for a potential nuclear strike against the Soviet Union. The plan was to embed up to 600 nuclear missiles under the ice, pointed towards their Cold War adversary.
The unique challenges of operating a military base under ice necessitated cutting-edge solutions. Among these was the portable nuclear reactor known as PM-2A, which provided essential electricity and sustainable heat to the base's inhabitants. This technological marvel was central to maintaining the viability of the base amid the harsh Arctic conditions.
Despite these innovations, Camp Century faced persistent issues with ice instability. These problems threatened the structural integrity of the tunnels and, over time, rendered the covert operation impractical. By 1967, the challenges had culminated in the abandonment of the base by the United States government, leaving behind hazardous materials encased in the slowly shifting glacier.
Fast forward to April 2024, while conducting a routine aerial survey for ice mapping, a NASA scientist inadvertently stumbled upon Camp Century. Using UAVSAR technology, designed to investigate the layers of ice and its bed, the radar data surprisingly illustrated the outlines of the buried base. According to cryospheric scientist Alex Gardner from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, “We were looking for the bed of the ice, and out pops Camp Century.”
This discovery occurred unexpectedly during tests intended to calibrate and validate UAVSAR’s capabilities. "Our goal was to calibrate, validate, and understand the capabilities and limitations of UAVSAR for mapping the ice sheet's internal layers and the ice-bed interface," explained Chad Greene, another scientist involved in the research project.
Camp Century’s dual function as both a research facility and a missile base illustrates the complex interplay of science and military strategy during the Cold War. The site was strategically chosen not just for its scientific value but also for its potential as a missile deployment site within striking distance of the Soviet Union.
Upon reconsideration of historic maps, researchers were able to confirm the structure and specific characteristics of the base, correlating these findings with the anomalies detected in the radar images. This confirmation underlined the success of UAVSAR technology in revealing hidden layers beneath the ice—layers that include not just geological features but also historical relics.
The rediscovery of Camp Century raises significant questions about the environmental impact of Cold War-era military operations in sensitive regions. As the glacier melts, the leftover waste slowly exposes itself, presenting modern-day challenges for environmental scientists and historians alike.
Furthermore, this finding sheds light on a nearly forgotten chapter of the Cold War, showing how geopolitical tensions drove technological advances and military strategies, often in secret. The base at Camp Century epitomized the era’s blend of innovation and intrigue, serving as a powerful reminder of the lengths nations will go to in the name of security and power.
As research continues, more details about Camp Century and its secrets will likely emerge, offering new insights into this shadowy chapter of the 20th century. Meanwhile, the tale of its discovery affirms the capacity of modern technology to uncover hidden facets of our world, revealing truths long buried under sheets of ice and time.
CNN's Chief White House Correspondent Kaitlan Collins sparked controversy by sharing a website associated with Luigi Mangione's legal defense.
In a recent social media post, CNN journalist Kaitlan Collins faced criticism for potentially promoting the defense efforts of an accused murderer, although the broadcast network clarified the intent was purely journalistic, Daily Mail reported.
On December 4, authorities arrested Luigi Mangione for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, which occurred outside the New York Hilton Midtown. After his arrest, officials held Mangione in a Brooklyn federal jail, where other high-profile inmates are also incarcerated.
Mangione, 26, used a ghost gun in the killing and carried a notebook that revealed his deep-seated hostility towards the health insurance industry. The seriousness of the case led Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg to apply a terrorism law in his prosecution, reflecting the gravity and premeditated nature of the crime.
The shell casings at the crime scene bore the words "delay," "deny," and "depose," further emphasizing the statement Mangione intended to make against the American health system, which has been a point of contention and led some to view him controversially as a hero.
In response to growing legal expenses, Mangione's defense team from Agnifilo Intrater set up a website, which included a message of thanks from Mangione to his supporters. In a now-deleted social media post, Collins shared a link to this website, drawing immediate backlash from the public and media observers.
Critics quickly accused Collins of using her platform to support the fundraising efforts for Mangione's defense, even though the website did not feature a fundraising page. Instead, his supporters raised over $400,000 through other means.
CNN and Collins both responded to the backlash by stating that the post aimed to report on a newsworthy development and did not endorse Mangione's actions or directly promote fundraising for his defense.
Statements from various individuals reflected the complexity and divisiveness of the situation. Luigi Mangione expressed gratitude towards those who supported him, noting their personal stories and aid. Conversely, media critic Stephen L. Miller condemned Collins's actions as "bottom of the barrel," and commentator Larry O'Connor accused her of promoting a "cold-blooded killer," demanding an apology.
Clarifying her position, Collins stated, "This is not true. I posted that his attorneys created a website, which is newsworthy and other outlets have also reported on." She emphasized that she intended to inform, not to support any fundraising.
A CNN spokesperson also defended the post, describing it as a standard news report about ongoing legal proceedings, thereby underscoring the network's commitment to delivering news without promoting external agendas.
The December 4 Legal Committee commented on the broader implications of the case, criticizing the American health insurance system for its role in denying basic care and contributing to financial distress for many families. This viewpoint contextualizes some of the public support for Mangione, despite the gravity of his alleged crimes.
As the case proceeds, the legal and ethical dimensions continue to unfold, with the public and media deeply divided on the intersection of journalism, criminal justice, and the narratives shaping public opinion. The Manhattan District Attorney's decision to use terrorism laws in prosecuting Mangione highlights the perceived severity and intended impact of the crime, aimed at sending a shock through the system and attracting nationwide attention.
Ultimately, the incident raises significant questions about the responsibilities of journalists in reporting controversial and highly sensitive events, the boundaries of informative versus promotional content, and the role of public opinion in legal defenses.
The NFL has expressed regret over its decision to feature Kendrick Lamar instead of Lil Wayne at the Super Bowl halftime show, sparking significant backlash.
According to the Daily Mail, The league now acknowledges that overlooking the New Orleans native Lil Wayne was a mistake, following criticism of Kendrick Lamar's performance at the event.
During the Super Bowl hosted in New Orleans' Caesars Superdome, Kendrick Lamar took the stage for the halftime performance. His selection over Lil Wayne, a local artist, led to widespread dismay among fans and critics alike, questioning the NFL’s choice in one of the most anticipated entertainment slots of the year.
Lil Wayne, whose real name is Dwayne Michael Carter Jr, vocally expressed his disappointment at not being chosen to perform in his hometown. His exclusion felt particularly poignant given his deep roots and connection to the New Orleans community.
An NFL employee freely admitted the oversight, stating, "A mistake was made and we regret the choice that was made," and emphasized that the NFL should have considered Lil Wayne as the primary option for the halftime show. Other league sources echoed this apology, recognizing the blunder.
In a gesture of reconciliation, the NFL sent Lil Wayne a formal letter of apology. Sports commentator Skip Bayless shared the details of the letter on his YouTube show, which expressed appreciation for Wayne's long-standing support of the NFL, including his loyalty to his favorite team, the Packers, and the league as a whole.
Lil Wayne addressed his fans about the situation via an Instagram Live stream and took responsibility for not being mentally prepared for the snub. He noted the personal significance of possibly performing at the Super Bowl in his city and described the oversight as deeply hurtful.
Kendrick Lamar's performance itself was a focal point for criticism. Not merely for his selection but for the content of his performance, which included controversial lyrics directed towards another music artist, Drake. During the show, Lamar made indirect jabs at legal disputes and sensitive accusations involving Drake, which garnered further attention.
SZA made an appearance during the performance, and Serena Williams made a surprise cameo, both introduced by none other than Samuel L. Jackson. Despite these high-profile collaborations, some labeled the performance’s content and artist choice as potentially the worst in Super Bowl history.
Beyond the apologies and controversies of this year's halftime show, the NFL has stated its intention to better align future performances with the locales hosting the Super Bowl. This plan aims to avoid similar missteps and ensure local talent and the city's cultural elements receive better representation.
The feedback from this event has led to a broader discussion within the NFL about the criteria and selection process for halftime performers. It highlights the importance of not only entertaining but also resonating with the local audience and honoring the cultural significance of the host city.
Lil Wayne remains a respected figure both in the music industry and in sports entertainment circles, often appearing on NFL Network's "NFL GameDay Morning." His potential contribution to the Super Bowl festivities in New Orleans could have added a memorable and personalized touch to the show.
In retrospect, people will remember the 2023 Super Bowl not just for the action on the gridiron, where the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs with a notable score of 40-22, but also for the halftime show that sparked much debate. Moving forward, the NFL aims to learn from this oversight to enhance the Super Bowl experience and ensure a better alignment with the host city culture and public expectations.