In a chilling confluence of digital footprints and brutal crimes, South Carolina realtor Todd Kohlhepp used Amazon reviews to cryptically hint at his murderous activities. Authorities apprehended Kohlhepp for killing seven individuals over 13 years, following a harrowing discovery on his property.
According to the US Sun, Todd Kohlhepp was convicted of multiple murders spanning nearly 13 years, finally discovered after a kidnapped woman was found in a shipping container on his property.
Kohlhepp's heinous actions commenced with a quadruple homicide in Chesnee, South Carolina, at a motorcycle shop in 2003. Despite the gravity of this crime, it was not connected to him until a disturbing breakthrough in 2016.
By then, Kohlhepp had established a successful real estate business, presenting himself as a reputable businessman. However, beneath this facade, sinister behaviors and disturbing comments hinted at his true nature.
Kohlhepp's dark proclivities were unveiled when Kala Brown, a missing woman, was found chained in a metal shipping container on his extensive property. This shocking discovery was the key that unlocked the breadth of his gruesome endeavors.
Authorities, alerted by the situation, arrested Kohlhepp, subsequently uncovering the extent of his brutality. His property concealed grim secrets, including multiple buried bodies belonging to his earlier victims.
During his arrest and investigation, Kohlhepp chillingly admitted to his crimes. In a remorseless confession, he pleaded guilty to seven counts of murder and kidnapping, opting for a life sentence over facing potential death penalty trials.
The case took a bizarre turn when investigators discovered Amazon product reviews left by Kohlhepp under an account named 'me.' These reviews were not ordinary customer feedback but contained eerie allusions to his violent acts.
One such review pertained to a padlock, stating, "Keep in your car for when you have to hide the bodies and you left the full-size shovel at home." This and other similar posts suggested a hidden layer of his psyche spilling into his online activities.
Reviews extended to various tools including a chainsaw and a knife, with Kohlhepp commenting on their efficacy in hypothetical sinister scenarios. These online activities offered a digital trail aligning with his confessed crimes and provided chilling insights into his mindset.
A documentary produced by Channel 4, titled "The Amazon Review Killer: Chilling Confession," has aimed to unpack the intricacies of this bizarre confluence of online behavior and real crimes.
Billy Arthur, the director, highlighted how Kohlhepp managed to maintain his facade of normalcy through his online and professional life, with his true malevolent nature hidden until the façade cracked violently.
Through interviews and analysis, the documentary explores how Kohlhepp’s online activity mirrored the macabre reality of his actions and aims to provide context and understanding of the psychological underpinnings of such a killer.
The consequences of Kohlhepp's actions have left profound impacts on the victims' families. During his court proceedings, the emotional weight was palpable, with one victim's mother directly confronting Kohlhepp’s inhumanity.
Cindy Coxie, the mother of one of the victims, encapsulated the sentiment of many affected by declaring her son "hates you with his little heart" directly to Kohlhepp. Such moments underscore the enduring pain and anger borne by those left behind.
As Todd Kohlhepp serves his life sentences at the Broad River Correctional Institution, the ramifications of his actions continue to resonate, both in the physical and digital realms. His case serves as a grim reminder of the potentially hidden depths of those we may perceive as ordinary neighbors or successful businessmen.
In a televised spectacle marred by critique, Abbie Stockard from Alabama claimed the Miss America 2025 title on January 5 amidst significant production backlash.
Abbie Stockard, 22, a nursing student and cheerleader, was declared the winner of Miss America 2025 after a contentious event characterized by viewers and critics as needing substantial improvement, the US Sun reported.
The competition unfolded at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, where Stockard competed against 51 other participants from across the United States. Contestants came from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Over two days, these competitors impressed the judges in various categories, eventually leading to the selection of eleven finalists.
Abbie Stockard’s performances in evening gown, talent, fitness, and Hot Topic segments set her apart from her peers. Her talent presentation featured a dance to Lauren Daigle's "You Say," a 2018 hit that showcased her impressive interpretative skills.
Stockard drew motivation from her mother, who worked several jobs to support their family, and from a best friend battling cystic fibrosis, which profoundly influenced her dedication and emotional depth throughout the competition.
After previous winner Madison Marsh, the first active duty Air Force Officer to win, crowned her, Stockard shared her disbelief and joy. "This is insane. I don't know what I did to deserve this," she remarked, overwhelmed by her achievement.
Meanwhile, the new Miss America 2025 received a $50,000 prize, which she plans to use to support her future aspirations in pediatrics. Hoping to make a meaningful difference, Stockard’s career path is clear as she prepares to embark on a healthcare journey focused on child medical care.
Furthermore, viewers watched the event through a live stream accessible via YouTube and PageantVision.com, reaching a wide digital audience. Nevertheless, this did not shield the event from widespread criticism about its overall execution.
Despite the pageant's intent to showcase talent and foster competition, many voiced concerns about the lower production values. Descriptions ranged from "cringe" to assertions that the event needed an overhaul. One critic pointedly said, "Miss America used to be a prime TV event. Now I have to search through YouTube to find it," exemplifying the sentiment of long-time pageant followers disappointed by the changes.
Another significant remark came from a usual critic who posts yearly about the decline of the pageant:
It's time for my annual 'they destroyed Miss America' post. This isn't directed at the girls; they are all incredible and talented. But off the bat, this production is awful and, honestly, cringe.
Others echoed this dissatisfaction, noting, "Congrats, Miss Alabama, for winning Miss America, but I cannot keep repeating how this organization is broken and needs an overhaul. The significant reduction in production quality does a disservice to these great women."
Amid the focus on criticism, it is also important to recognize the achievements of the runners-up. Miss Texas Annette Addo-Yobo, Miss Tennessee Carley Vogel, and Miss Florida 2024 Casana Fink, along with Miss Ohio 2024 Stephanie Finoti, completed the top five. Fink received a modest $3,000 scholarship for her placement.
The recognition of Stockard and her fellow finalists in this 97th edition of the pageant further highlights a critical juncture for this traditional event, suggesting that its future may either adapt to modern times or continue facing viewer opposition.
As the digital reminiscence of previous winners, like Madison Marsh, continues to inspire new contestants, the Miss America pageant remains a complex blend of heritage and contemporary challenge. A social media post paid tribute to Marsh, saying: "Your incredible achievements go beyond beauty and grace. You are a symbol of what’s possible when courage, determination, and service come together," thus encapsulating the ongoing respect for those who redefine norms and inspire leadership.
An estimated 2,000 migrants have commenced a journey from southern Mexico, aiming to reach the United States before the upcoming presidential inauguration.
According to the New York Post, The caravan, forming the first large-scale migration movement of 2025, seeks entry into the U.S. before Donald Trump, known for his strict immigration policies, assumes office.
Beginning their trek on January 2, 2025, in Tapachula, Mexico, the group advanced to Huixtla the following day. Their path marks a determined effort to navigate through Mexico toward the U.S. border.
Donald Trump, the President-elect set to be inaugurated on January 20, 2025, has announced plans for an extensive immigration crackdown. This policy stance has spurred the current caravan to hasten their journey, hoping to cross the border before the new administration takes power.
Luis Garcia Villagran, a leader of the caravan and director of the Center for Human Dignity, has vocalized the urgency of reaching a humanitarian agreement between the U.S. and Mexico. This call for diplomacy aims to safeguard the rights and dignity of migrants amid tightening immigration controls.
As shelters in northern Mexico prepare for an influx of migrants, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo has expressed her disapproval of Trump's deportation plans. She emphasized potential cooperation with the U.S. should mass deportations occur, ensuring dignified treatment of returned migrants.
“We are going to ask the United States that, if possible, they can take the migrants who are not from Mexico [back] to their countries of origin. If not, we can collaborate through different mechanisms. There will be time to talk about this with the US government if these deportations occur. […] But we will receive them [the migrants], and we will receive them well,” Sheinbaum stated.
Amidst the looming threats of harsher immigration measures, the plight of the caravan has drawn significant attention to the need for bilateral agreements focused on humane treatment and rights protection for migrants. "There must be an agreement between the government of Mexico and the government of the United States to establish humanitarian policies in favor of all these people," Villagran emphasized.
The leader, representing the collective sentiment of the caravan, articulated the fundamental desires of the group. “We are not criminals. All we are asking for is an opportunity for life,” Villagran expressed.
This latest caravan marks the 10th such group trying to reach the U.S. since October of the previous year, highlighting a continuous trend of northward migration due to various precipitating factors ranging from economic hardship to safety concerns in their home countries.
The consistent formation of such caravans underscores the ongoing urgency for comprehensive reform and compassionate handling of migration issues at an international level. Both American and Mexican leaders face increasing pressure to address these complex humanitarian issues promptly and fairly.
As the caravan pushes forward through Mexico, the international community watches closely, aware that the outcome could influence future migrations and the broader relationships between neighboring countries in North America.
Roger Pratt, a towering figure in cinematography, has died at age 77.
According to the US Sun, The British Society of Cinematographers has confirmed the December death of Roger Pratt, marking the end of a distinguished film career.
Pratt was born in 1947 in the Midlands, UK, where he grew up as the son of a parish vicar. His early exposure to 16mm 'fact and faith' films in the church sparked a lifelong passion for film and steered him away from a potential church career.
Pratt began his formal education at the London Film School, where he honed the skills that would soon make him a sought-after director of photography. There, he laid the foundation for a career that would span over four decades.
Throughout his career, Roger Pratt worked on more than 35 films, applying his unique visual style to each project. His work included major titles like two "Harry Potter" films, the epic "Troy," "Mary Shelley's Frankenstein," and the romantic "Chocolat."
One of Pratt's most notable collaborations was with director Tim Burton on the 1989 film "Batman." In particular, his innovative cinematography techniques significantly contributed to the visual storytelling that defined the film's dark, gothic aesthetic.
Pratt built a reputation for excellence and connected with others in the industry. He met Terry Gilliam while working on the set of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," sparking a professional relationship that would span several of Gilliam's later films, including "Brazil," "The Fisher King," and "12 Monkeys."
Terry Gilliam recalled a telling moment with Pratt, saying, "This guy said, ‘Just give me a moment’ and in a few minutes, while we were still faffing around, he had run down the mountain, forded the river, run up the other side, into the camera truck, grabbed the right lens and here it was. We stuck it on the camera and got the shot. That was the moment I fell in love with Roger."
In recognition of his lifetime of work and contribution to the field, the British Society of Cinematographers awarded Pratt their highest honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award, in 2023. This recognition underscored the high regard in which he was held by his peers.
Society remembered him fondly, noting his humble beginnings and his impactful career: "The son of a parish vicar, the church didn’t capture his career aspirations, seeing 16mm ‘fact and faith’ films did. Roger would go on to shoot some of Gilliam’s cult classics. Our thoughts go out to his family at this time."
The details of Pratt’s death, including the specific date and location, have not been made public, respecting the privacy of his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
News of Pratt's passing resonated deeply with fans and colleagues alike, many of whom took to social media to express their sorrow and admiration. For instance, a fan paid tribute, illustrating the deep connection many felt to his work: "Farewell to the incomparable Roger Pratt. We'll miss his light."
Similarly, another fan simply added, "Goodbye to the great Roger Pratt," capturing the feeling of loss felt by those who admired his cinematic contributions.
As the film industry reflects on Roger Pratt's legacy, his influence on cinematography remains clear. Indeed, his artistic vision and dedication to the craft have left an indelible mark on the films he worked on and the filmmakers he inspired.
Roger Pratt's achievements are celebrated by an industry grateful for his contributions and by audiences who continue to enjoy his films. Moreover, his work lives on, not just on screen, but in the teaching and inspiration it provides for future generations of cinematographers.
Pratt's journey from a filmmaker's son in the Midlands to a legendary figure in international cinema is a testament to his skills, creativity, and the impact one individual can have on the art of motion pictures. In essence, his legacy continues to shape the world of film.
Ethan Pearl's ordinary shopping trip turned into an unexpected ordeal when security at a local Costco accused him of theft and detained him due to a self-checkout mishap.
Ethan Pearl found himself held in what he described as 'Costco jail' for 20 minutes after a cashier error led to an unscanned item in his cart, Mail Online reported.
During his visit to Costco, Pearl used a self-checkout lane where a store employee was assisting with the scanning process. Unfortunately, one of his items, a pack of Kirkland brand paper towels, was mistakenly not scanned. This oversight soon escalated as he attempted to exit the store.
Costco security personnel stopped Pearl and accused him of attempting to steal the unscanned item. They then took him to a confined area within the store, humorously referred to by Pearl and others as 'Costco jail,' where he spent the next 20 minutes.
While detaining Pearl, Costco security thoroughly reviewed both the store’s surveillance footage and Pearl's credit card transactions to determine whether the failure to scan was intentional or a mere oversight by the assisting employee.
The footage confirmed that the cashier had indeed missed scanning the item while performing their duties, clearing Pearl of any intentional wrongdoing. Security then released Pearl from detention and provided him with a form from Costco confirming that he had not engaged in any theft.
Pearl shared his experience on social media by posting a video on TikTok that quickly went viral. The video, which captured his recounting of the event and displayed the form Costco had given him, amassed over three million views and sparked widespread discussion among viewers.
Commenters on TikTok resonated with Pearl's situation, sharing their own stories of misunderstandings at various retail outlets. One user recounted being wrongly accused of using someone else’s membership card during a difficult personal time, while another described a similar detention over an item that was scanned properly.
Pearl's story not only went viral for the incident itself but also prompted discussions about customer service and security measures at large retail stores, particularly at Costco. Many users expressed frustration over what they perceived as overzealous security practices.
Beyond the immediate incident, the situation sheds light on the broader operational challenges faced by Costco. The company recently introduced a requirement for photo IDs at self-checkouts to prevent non-members from using other people’s membership cards, aiming to ensure only members enjoy the benefits of Costco's pricing.
In addition to security enhancements, Costco has been adjusting its business strategies in other areas as well. Recently, the retailer discontinued stocking books year-round, opting instead to offer them only during the holiday season. This move is a response to stiff competition from online giants like Amazon and other market pressures impacting book sales.
Costco also increased its membership fees last year, the first hike since 2017. The standard membership now costs $65, up from $60, while the Executive membership has risen from $120 to $130. Such changes are part of Costco's efforts to manage operational costs while continuing to provide value to its members.
Despite these challenges, Costco remains a retail powerhouse, annually generating approximately $4 billion in revenue solely from membership fees. This robust income stream underscores the importance of maintaining member trust and satisfaction, something the incident with Pearl highlights as an area for potential improvement.
The incident with Ethan Pearl prompts a broader reflection on customer experience and operational integrity in large retail environments. As businesses strive to protect their assets, the balance between security and customer satisfaction becomes increasingly crucial.
For shoppers like Pearl and the commenters on his video, their experiences serve as a stark reminder of the potential pitfalls of retail automation and security protocols. It's a delicate balance that companies like Costco must navigate as they continue to adapt to evolving consumer expectations and competitive pressures.
While Pearl's detention was short-lived and resolved, it underscores the ongoing dialogue between consumers and retailers about the proper handling of such incidents and the overall shopping experience. For Costco, this incident may catalyze reevaluating how best to integrate security measures with customer service practices to avoid similar situations in the future.
Authorities have connected the mysterious drone activities in New Jersey to a catastrophic explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck at the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas.
According to NewJersey101.5, These events, intertwined with suspicions of foreign intervention and personal vendettas, paint a complex picture of modern security threats.
The chain of events began with a sudden increase in drone sightings across New Jersey. What initially seemed like an innocuous trend soon raised alarm among local authorities, prompting an expansion of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) restrictions over 34 new locations in the state on December 24th and 30th for "special security reasons."
As the drone sightings intensified, the story took a more sinister turn. Matthew Livelsberger, a 37-year-old Army veteran and former soldier, formerly hailed as a hero, died in an explosion on January 1 at the Trump hotel. Before this tragic event, on December 31, an email allegedly sent by him disclosed suspicions that the drones were controlled by Chinese operatives from submarines stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.
Livelsberger’s email claimed these operations were demonstrations of power akin to the known 2023 balloon incident, suggesting a stark exhibition of geopolitical muscle. The motivations behind his purported actions were rooted deeply in personal anguish and a desire to spotlight America's unresolved national issues.
In his communications, Livelsberger expressed a need to perform a "wakeup call" about the country’s ills and to "cleanse [his] mind" from the scars of war. In a note found after the explosion, he wrote of the burden of memories associated with the lives of colleagues lost and enemies killed during service. His disturbing final act was framed as both a protest and a personal catharsis.
The fallout of Livelsberger's actions extended beyond the immediate damage. His claims, discussed extensively in a podcast by Shawn Ryan, highlighted potential unseen threats posed by drone technology. Yet, despite the stirring narrative, official investigations have to verify the authenticity of the submarine operation claims.
In New Jersey, the community and local law enforcement observed a marked decline in drone-related reports over the holiday season, despite the ongoing activity. Former Pequannock Mayor Ryan Herd noted that the public had possibly become desensitized to the drone sightings, which although frequent, no longer incited the same level of urgency in reporting.
Ocean County Sheriff Mike Mastronardy echoed this sentiment, saying, "We're not getting any calls. As quick as they came, they left." This general decline in public alarm suggests a normalization of drone activities, reducing the immediacy of community responses despite potential risks.
The broader implications of these events stretch into other regions and incidents. A separate terror attack in New Orleans involving another Army veteran, though confirmed to be unrelated, shared the feature of military-background actors engaging in extreme activities motivated by different ideologies.
At the federal level, authorities remain cautious. "Although this incident is more public and more sensational than usual, it ultimately appears to be a tragic case of suicide involving a heavily decorated combat veteran who was struggling with PTSD and other issues," stated FBI Special Agent In Charge Spencer Evans.
As investigations continue, the nexus between increased drone surveillance, heightened security measures, and the unsettling motive of a troubled veteran presents a tapestry of threats that the national security apparatus must anticipate and mitigate. The tragic events serve as a stark reminder of the intersections between personal turmoil, technological advancement, and national security.
An avalanche in Wyoming's Togwotee Pass tragically ended the life of a backcountry skier this past Saturday.
A skier named Kenneth Goff lost his life under the snow, marking the fifth avalanche-related fatality this winter season, New York Post reported.
Four skiers, including 36-year-old Kenneth Goff from Lander, were ascending the mountain using a skin track when the avalanche struck. It occurred just before noon, engulfing Goff fully and partially burying another member of the group.
The avalanche brought severe consequences for the tight-knit skiing community. One of the skiers survived but sustained a leg injury after the avalanche partially buried him. Rescuers rescued him under challenging conditions as the team battled rapidly deteriorating weather.
Weather challenges impeded the initial rescue operations. Attempts to reach the avalanche site by helicopter and snowmobile failed due to the bad weather, forcing rescuers to proceed on foot.
Rescuers took about four hours to reach the avalanche site after the emergency was first reported. Their journey was fraught with difficulties due to the severe winter conditions that had recently intensified throughout the region.
Once the rescuers arrived, they worked diligently against the clock. They continued the rescue operation into the night, securing the injured skier and ensuring his transportation to safety.
With the area approximately 20 miles away from Grand Teton National Park, volunteers navigated the treacherous terrain to transport the injured skier to an awaiting ambulance.
Kenneth Goff's situation, however, ended more grimly. Rescuers recovered his body and used a sked—a type of stretcher used in such operations—to transport him back from the site.
The loss of Kenneth Goff highlights the inherent risks associated with backcountry skiing, particularly in areas known for heavy snowfall and avalanche risks. The Teton County Search and Rescue team emphasized how severe weather complicates rescue efforts.
"This serves as an important reminder of how much longer a mission can take when the helicopter is grounded, and is another factor to consider in your backcountry planning should an accident occur," a news release from Teton County Search and Rescue stated.
The rescue team also extended their condolences, reflecting the somber mood in the community: "TCSAR extends its most sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased skier."
The recent string of snowstorms escalated the danger in the region, as noted by the National Weather Service. This season's conditions have proven particularly perilous for those braving the backcountry terrains of Wyoming.
This tragedy highlights the critical importance of awareness and preparation for those undertaking such ventures. Avalanche safety training and proper planning are crucial, as the environment can be unforgiving and change rapidly.
The incident at Togwotee Pass serves as a harsh reminder of the unpredictability and lethal potential of avalanches, especially in areas frequented by avid skiers seeking the thrill of fresh, untracked snow.
As communities and rescue teams review and reinforce safety measures, the skiing community worldwide faces a reminder of the vigilance required to navigate the beautiful but often merciless backcountry.
In the wake of this event, discussions have intensified around the need for improved safety protocols and better educational initiatives aimed at skiers of all levels to prevent such tragedies in the future.
In a shocking turn of events, former US Army Ranger Matthew Livelsberger ended his life in a dramatic fashion outside a prominent hotel in Las Vegas.
The act highlighted potential oversights in addressing mental health issues among veterans, Mail Online reported.
Matthew Livelsberger, 37, tragically took his own life using a firearm before setting off a homemade bomb in a rented Cybertruck at the Trump Hotel.
Positioned as a public spectacle, this incident not only claimed his life but raised alarms due to his sensitive military background.
Before joining the military, Livelsberger faced challenges in his personal life, having divorced his first wife before entering into a three-year relationship with Alicia Arritt, whom he met via a dating app.
The couple eventually parted ways, leading to a loss of contact until days before the incident when Livelsberger reached out to share his excitement about the Cybertruck.
Arritt publicly revealed Livelsberger's struggles, noting that he had exhibited signs of PTSD since 2018. Symptoms such as paranoia, nightmares, and depression intensified over time.
Despite the availability of military mental health resources, a notable stigma surrounded seeking help, especially among high-ranking units where Livelsberger served.
According to Arritt, Livelsberger feared that acknowledging his mental health issues could lead to non-deployment, which he wanted to avoid at all costs to remain supportive of his fellow soldiers. "If he got flagged for having depression or a TBI, he would've been made non-deployable and he did not want that. He wanted to be there for his guys," Arritt explained.
Livelsberger, a former Green Beret, was on personal leave when he drove the rented Cybertruck from Colorado to Nevada on New Year's Day.
Shortly after his arrival, the explosion occurred within an hour in Las Vegas. Initially suspected of a terror attack, investigations later clarified that it was a suicide meant to address his perceived national security concerns.
In his suicide note, Livelsberger expressed delusional beliefs about national threats and his frustration with the state of national affairs. "The U.S. is terminally ill and headed towards collapse. This was not a terrorist attack, it was a wake-up call," he wrote, indicating his actions were intended to draw attention to these issues.
The Army has emphasized the availability of comprehensive mental health services through programs like the Preservation of the Force and Family (POTFF), which Livelsberger had accessed.
Despite his participation, he reportedly showed no warning signs that warranted further intervention. "Master Sgt. Matthew Livelsberger did not display any concerning behaviors at the time and was granted personal leave," an Army spokesperson stated.
Furthermore, the Army encourages all soldiers experiencing mental health issues to seek proactive treatment, either within military facilities or online.
The critical nature of mental health in high-stress environments is acknowledged and resources are made abundantly available to personnel.
Livelsberger's tragic end has opened a dialogue concerning the underlying mental health challenges within the military community.
Arritt's poignant reflections portray a man overwhelmed by his service-related experiences, struggling in silence. "They just keep them in the war until they're used up, and then the VA takes care of them," she lamented, pointing towards the need for more proactive treatment options for active-duty soldiers.
The incident in Las Vegas not only reminds us of the sacrifices made by military personnel but also highlights the critical need for effective mental health support systems.
As investigations continue, many hope that this tragic event will inspire more substantial efforts to support the mental well-being of those who risk everything in service to their country.
Mike Rinder, a prominent former member of the Church of Scientology and critic of the organization, has died at the age of 69 after a prolonged illness.
After fighting advanced esophageal cancer for a year and a half, Rinder, once a high-ranking Scientologist, ultimately succumbed to the disease, according to Mail Online.
Born in Australia, Rinder became deeply involved in Scientology, dedicating over 30 years to its Sea Org, an elite unit within the church. However, his departure from the Church in 2007 marked a significant turning point in his life.
John Sweeney’s confrontational BBC documentary "Scientology and Me" partly influenced his decision to leave, exposing various aspects of the Church's practices.
After leaving, Rinder emerged as an outspoken critic of the Church, using media platforms to spotlight alleged malpractices within the organization.
After leaving Scientology, Rinder became an outspoken adversary, contributing extensively to blog posts and media presentations critical of his former faith. He aimed to shed light on the controversial operations of the Church.
He teamed up with actress and fellow ex-Scientologist Leah Remini on the docuseries "Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath," which earned critical acclaim during its three-season run. The series offered an in-depth exploration of the personal stories of individuals affected by the Church’s practices.
Additionally, Rinder co-hosted the podcast "Scientology: Fair Game," which continued to examine and discuss the Church's alleged wrongdoings until it ceased production in 2020.
Rinder’s personal battles did not overshadow his commitment to advocating against the Church’s practices. His wife, Christie Collbran, a former Sea Org member, reflected on his enduring spirit and integrity.
In her statement, Christie expressed deep sorrow, noting how deeply Rinder was loved by those he influenced and supported: "Rest in peace, my sweet, beautiful husband. I speak for so many when I say the sadness and pain we feel mirror the depth of our unwavering love for you."
She continued, highlighting his remarkable qualities: "Your courage, bravery, and integrity are unmatched and will forever inspire us. You have been the pillar of stability in our lives, filling our days with your strength, wisdom, love, laughter, and devotion."
In his final public statements, Rinder reflected on his journey and the dual lives he felt he had lived. He considered the later years of his life, after leaving Scientology, particularly fulfilling.
"I count myself lucky for living two lives in one lifetime. The second one [was] the most wonderful years anyone could wish for, thanks to being spent with all of you and my new family," Rinder stated.
Although diagnosed with esophageal cancer five years after the cancellation of his podcast with Leah Remini, he remained hopeful and continued to encourage those fighting against injustices associated with Scientology: "If you are in any way fighting to end those abuses please keep the flag flying - never give up."
Christie Collbran announced Rinder's passing on social media, which led to a flood of tributes and messages of condolence from former church members and supporters touched by Rinder's work.
In his last message, Rinder reflected on his motivations and regrets, particularly his aspirations to end the abuses he alleged were part of the Scientology experience.
"My only real regret is not having achieved what I said I wanted to—ending the abuses of Scientology... and seeing [my son] Jack into adulthood," he shared. His enduring hope remained for ongoing efforts to challenge and change the system he once served.
Customers have reacted strongly to recent changes in Chick-fil-A's beloved waffle fries, voicing their frustrations loudly.
Chick-fil-A added pea starch to their waffle fries recipe, sparking widespread dissatisfaction due to changes in taste and concerns about allergies, according to Mail Online.
This modification represents a major shift for Chick-fil-A, a chain celebrated for its customer loyalty and iconic menu items. The new recipe significantly altered the fries’ taste and texture, prompting many customers to label them as "gross." Negative feedback quickly flooded social media platforms after the update.
Many customers including, Daryl-Ann Denner, a frequent visitor of the chain, began noticing the change around mid-November. Initially, Denner misattributed the difference in the fries to possibly a specific location or a bad batch. However, further visits confirmed the consistency of the change across locations, worsening her and her family's dining experience. "The fries are dry, grainy, and have no flavor anymore. My kids won't even eat them," Denner explained.
As dissatisfaction grew, more customers took to social media to voice their grievances. Posts and comments ranged from humorous disappointment to serious distress over altered diets and allergy concerns. One Instagram user lamented, "The new fries are giving '7 Eleven Waffle Fries under a heat lamp.'"
Another user added a personal touch to their complaint: "CFA I love you more than anyone. You can do no wrong. Except for the fries. Please put them back." The complaints highlighted a mix of emotional attachment to the original recipe and the universal appeal of the old fries.
Physical discomfort was another grave issue brought on by the new recipe. One unhappy customer reported, "The new fries are awful and I cut the inside of my cheek trying to chew them." This complaint marks a concerning issue regarding the physical safety of consuming the altered fries.
Potentially the most serious of the changes are those related to health concerns, specifically allergies. Pea starch, the new ingredient, has become a point of concern for families managing food allergies. "You were our ONLY safe fast food place for our family members with food allergies," a concerned parent explained on social media.
This customer’s son experienced hives immediately after consuming the new fries, indicating sensitivity to the newly introduced pea starch in the recipe. Another expressed relief in narrowly avoiding a visit to Chick-fil-A, "I had no idea they were using a pea starch now – so scary! I’m SO GLAD we didn’t end up stopping by this afternoon."
These incidents indicate a potential risk for allergic reactions among unsuspecting consumers, especially since pea allergies can be severe and are less commonly accommodated compared to other dietary restrictions.
While controversy swirls around the changed waffle fries, Chick-fil-A has concurrently been launching new menu items at select locations. These new offerings are available exclusively at Truett’s Chick-fil-A locations in Georgia, inspired by the chain founder Truett Cathy’s life and legacy.
This introduction of new dishes alongside the waffle fries controversy presents a complex scenario for the brand. While some customers might be drawn to these exclusive new items, others might be deterred by their negative experiences with the fries.
Ultimately, the additions could serve as a way to either divert attention from the waffle fries issue or offer a substitute that might regain customer trust. However, the main focus for many remains centered on nostalgic affection for the original fries recipe and hope for its return.
As the story continues to develop, Chick-fil-A faces a pivotal decision on whether to address the growing discontent or continue with the new waffle fry recipe. Customer loyalty is being tested, and the company’s response will likely impact its brand perception moving forward.
Listening to customer feedback and potentially revisiting the ingredients change could be crucial steps in restoring consumer trust. For now, Chick-fil-A patrons are left hoping for a return to the familiar taste and texture of what was once a staple side dish at the renowned fast food location.