Harrison Brooks – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com Here today, better tomorrow. Thu, 01 May 2025 18:25:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.3 https://wp-media.familytoday.com/2020/03/favicon.ico Harrison Brooks – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com 32 32 Mother of 4 Falls to Her Death While Hiking With Her Kids: ‘Left the Earth Doing What She Loved’ https://www.familytoday.com/family/mother-of-four-falls-to-her-death-while-hiking-with-her-kids-left-the-earth-doing-what-she-loved/ Thu, 01 May 2025 18:27:01 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=71500 A family hike turned tragic when beloved mother of four Carolyn Sanger fell to her death at a Massachusetts state…

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Carolyn Sanger, a beloved mother of four from Topsfield, Massachusetts, died April 23rd after falling from a steep area while hiking with her three teenage children at a Massachusetts state park.

According to the Worcester County District Attorney's Office, the 49-year-old fell approximately 50 to 75 feet and was pronounced dead at the scene of Purgatory Chasm State Reservation in Sutton, MA the Worcester County District Attorney's Office said. The tragic incident occurred shortly after 2 p.m., prompting a swift response from Massachusetts State Police and local emergency services.

Sanger had been hiking with three of her children and other family members when the fall occurred, Sutton police reported. The park, known for its dramatic 70-foot-deep granite chasm, is a popular destination for families and adventurers alike.

Officials said there were multiple medical professionals hiking in the area at the time, who immediately rendered aid. “However, she was pronounced dead a short time later,” Sutton Police stated on Facebook.

Massachusetts State Police confirmed they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, with detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office leading the effort. “We offer our condolences to the family and loved ones of the decedent,” state police wrote in a statement.

"For those that knew Carrie, know that she was a bright light; a wonderful, selfless mother who has raised four incredible, respectful, responsible kids," organizers of a GoFundMe created on behalf of the Sanger family wrote. "She was a friend to all and her smile and kind spirit will be greatly missed. She passed too early - but she left the earth doing what she loved, with the ones she loved."

Sutton police also expressed their condolences, saying the town mourns alongside the family during this time of heartbreaking loss.

The investigation remains ongoing, but the legacy of Carolyn Sanger—as a mother, friend, and vibrant presence—has already left a lasting mark on her community.

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Matthew McConaughey’s Son Shares No-Nonsense Career Advice He Received From His Dad https://www.familytoday.com/family/matthew-mcconaugheys-son-shares-no-nonsense-career-advice-he-received-from-his-dad/ Fri, 21 Mar 2025 11:49:45 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=71128 Levi McConaughey is following in his dad's footsteps.

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Matthew McConaughey is passing down hard-earned wisdom to his teenage son, Levi, as he begins his own journey in Hollywood.

Levi McConaughey, 16, recently made his first red carpet appearance at the SXSW Film Festival, where he shared the straightforward advice his Oscar-winning father gave him as he enters the world of acting.

“I mean, he gave me a lot of advice, and he was able to mentor me in a couple different ways,” Levi told People magazine.

“But I'd say the main thing for acting, and pardon my French, is no bulls--- in your bones. Own what you're doing and make a choice—regardless of whether that ends up being the right one or the wrong one. Commit to it and know what you're saying.”

Levi joined his parents, Matthew and Camila Alves McConaughey, at the festival to support the premiere of his father’s latest film, The Rivals of Amziah King. Though he was there with his famous parents, Levi is determined to carve out his own path in acting.

Matthew McConaughey also weighed in on the guidance he’s given his son, emphasizing both preparation and bold decision-making.

“It’s one, you’ve got a natural ability,” the Interstellar actor told People magazine. “Two, how do we get specific about knowing where you’re coming from and where you’re going? The best acting, for my money, is when an actor is caught in action, doing something.”

He explained the importance of bringing depth to a scene:

“Meaning, where were you before, and where are you going after, if the camera is rolling the whole time? You come into the scene so it doesn’t feel like a fresh start and a fresh ending.”

McConaughey also encouraged his son to take risks and embrace failure.

“Don’t be afraid to make a fool of yourself—I did it plenty of times,” he said. “It’s a lot easier to go big and come back down to reality than it is to come in under and push it to more energy later. It’s a lot easier to go big, make a fool of yourself, get embarrassed, and then bring it down to reality than it is to start with low energy and go, ‘Hey, we need more.’”

Levi has already landed a supporting role in Way of the Warrior Kid alongside Chris Pratt. The film’s cast also includes Linda Cardellini and Jude Hill.

While his acting career is just beginning, Levi has grown up in a household deeply connected to the film industry.

Matthew McConaughey and Camila Alves met in 2006, when McConaughey was starring in romantic comedies like Failure to Launch and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. They married in 2012 and later decided to leave California for Texas, where they are raising their three children: Levi, Vida, and Livingston.

Camila previously shared that their move to Texas was rooted in their values.

“It really embodies our belief system, especially the ones I grew up with, like going to church every Sunday, saying ‘yes ma’am’ or ‘no, sir,’” she explained. “I grew up saying those things coming from a family of farmers. For me, being from Brazil and then coming to Texas, I discovered a lot of similarities in terms of what families practice here—especially going to church on Sundays and being very into the outdoors. It’s been a great transition.”

With his parents’ support and a clear vision for his future, Levi McConaughey is taking his first steps in Hollywood, guided by the wisdom of his famous father.

 

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Kate Hudson Says She’s Raising Her Kids to Be Independent, Not to ‘Lean on Family’ For Financial Support https://www.familytoday.com/family/kate-hudson-says-shes-raising-her-kids-to-be-independent-not-to-lean-on-family-for-financial-support/ Fri, 14 Mar 2025 15:25:04 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=71054 Hudson is the mother of three children, sons Ryder and Bingham and daughter Rani Rose.

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Kate Hudson believes it’s important for children to learn independence early on.

The actress is a mother to three children: Ryder with her ex-husband Chris Robinson; Bingham with ex-fiancé Matt Bellamy; and Rani Rose with her fiancé Danny Fujikawa.

In an interview with Bustle magazine, Hudson shared how she has made it clear to her eldest son, Ryder, a student at New York University, that if he decides to return home after graduation, there will be certain expectations.

"He's like, ‘I got to figure out what my life is going to look like and how I’m going to achieve the things that I want to achieve and how I can live,’" Hudson said. "I think you should be teaching your kids those things way earlier on so that when they get to that point, they’re not like, ‘Oh my God, how do I afford my life and not lean on my family?’"

Hudson, the daughter of Goldie Hawn and musician Bill Hudson, found success in her early 20s by following her famous parents into the entertainment industry. However, she has often referred to her mother’s longtime partner, Kurt Russell, as her father.

Hawn and Russell’s relationship began after they reconnected as co-stars in the 1983 movie Swing Shift, years after they first met on the set of 1968’s The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band. Hawn split from Bill Hudson in 1982 after six years of marriage, and Russell helped raise her children, Kate and Oliver Hudson, alongside their son Wyatt. All three children pursued acting careers.

In a 2017 episode of the ABC Radio podcast "No Limits With Rebecca Jarvis," Hudson opened up about how Hawn and Russell instilled a strong sense of responsibility in their kids.

"The work ethic in our family is really huge," she said. "They definitely instilled that in all of their kids ... It was just basically, 'Do your job. Do it the best you can.'"

Hudson reflected on her own decision to put off college to chase her acting dreams. She had been accepted into the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University but chose to pursue opportunities in film instead. At 19, she earned her breakout role in the 2000 film "Almost Famous," which won her a Golden Globe and earned her an Oscar nomination.

In her interview with Bustle, Hudson credited her upbringing for teaching her to trust herself and embrace her ambitions at a young age.

"I had parents that instilled in me that it was OK to be self-possessed and to believe in myself," she said. "I was very driven when it came to wanting to be in the arts. I didn’t need to do a talent show with three people; I wanted to be out there by myself dancing."

"Sometimes when you’re that young and you’re that self-possessed, there’s a lot of people that want to bring you down, she added. And I did receive a lot of pushback from peers."

But Hudson said her parents always assured her the criticism was not a reflection of her abilities, and she remained determined.

Hudson reached major milestones in her personal life at a young age as well. She began dating musician Chris Robinson in 2000 after meeting him on vacation, and just days later, she declared she would marry him. The couple tied the knot that same year on New Year’s Eve when Hudson was 21.

On "The World’s First Podcast," Hudson recalled why she decided to get married so quickly.

"I just jump into the deep end of everything I do, she said. People thought it was impulsive, but I was just like, 'You know what? I'm just going to dive right into this. I'm not going to second-guess it.'"

The couple welcomed their son Ryder in 2004, but they split in 2007 after seven years of marriage. Despite the separation, they have continued to co-parent amicably, and Hudson has credited Robinson with teaching her what it felt like to be unconditionally loved.

Hudson went on to date Muse frontman Matt Bellamy, whom she met in 2010 at Coachella. The couple got engaged in 2011 and welcomed Bingham later that year. Although they called off their engagement in 2014, they have maintained a positive relationship as they co-parent their son.

In December 2016, Hudson began dating musician Danny Fujikawa, a close family friend she first met when she was pregnant with Ryder. On their first date, a hike, Hudson realized Fujikawa was interested in something more than friendship.

"There was something about Danny that it was coming from such an honest place that I could tell he just wanted me to see him," she said.

Hudson and Fujikawa welcomed their daughter Rani in 2018 and announced their engagement in 2021.

In 2022, Hudson reflected on her approach to co-parenting with her children’s fathers.

"It might not look traditional from the outside, but on the inside I feel like we’re killing it," she said. "The unit that I’ve created with three children with three different fathers is a seriously strong unit, and it’s ours."

While Hudson has always praised Hawn and Russell for their parenting style, she admitted her approach differs in some ways. But Hudson also says her confidence stems from the strong bonds within her family. "At the end of the day, our family is what matters in life," she said. "From my brothers to my nephews and nieces, to my sisters-in-law, to my mom, my dad, to my partner, his brothers. I think that’s where the real kind of self-possessed nature comes from."

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Golf Legend Tiger Woods and Vanessa Trump Have Been Secretly Dating for Months https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/golf-legend-tiger-woods-and-vanessa-trump-have-been-secretly-dating-for-months/ Fri, 14 Mar 2025 15:23:40 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=71042 A source close to the Trump family says Donald Jr. is "cool" with the new relationship.

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Tiger Woods appears to have found new love with Vanessa Trump, the former wife of Donald Trump Jr.

A source close to the Trump family has confirmed that Woods, 49, and Trump, 47, have been seeing each other quietly for several months. According to this insider, Donald Trump Jr., Vanessa's ex-husband, is supportive of their relationship.

Vanessa was married to Donald Trump Jr. for 12 years before she filed for divorce in 2018.

Tiger Woods and Vanessa Trump seem to have a lot in common. Beyond both spending the majority of their time in Florida, Woods' son, Charlie, and Vanessa's daughter, Kai, are both competitive golfers. Vanessa’s daughter, 17-year-old Kai Trump, who she shares with her ex-husband, has committed to joining the University of Miami’s golf team starting in the fall. In February, Woods, Vanessa, and Kai were seen together at a golf tournament in Florida.

Just days later, on February 20, Woods was recognized at the White House during an event for Black History Month, where former President Donald Trump honored him.

After his highly publicized divorce, Woods was linked to Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn in the 2010s. He was dating Erica Herman at the time he won the Masters in 2019, but they too had a very public breakup that included sexual harassment allegations and an NDA lawsuit filed by Herman.

This relationship news comes on the heels of Woods revealing a recent health setback. The golfer shared that he suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon. “As I began to ramp up my own training and practice at home, I felt a sharp pain in my left Achilles, which was deemed to be ruptured,” he wrote on social media. Woods went on to share that Dr. Charlton Stucken at the Hospital for Special Surgery in West Palm Beach, Florida, performed a minimally invasive surgery to repair the tendon.

In addition to his injury, Woods has faced personal loss this year. His mother, Kultida Woods, passed away on February 4 at the age of 81. Woods expressed his deep sadness in a heartfelt post online: “It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning. My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable. “

He continued, "She was quick with the needle and a laugh. She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter—without her, none of my personal achievements would have been possible. She was loved by so many, but especially by her two grandchildren, Sam and Charlie. Thank you all for your support, prayers, and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you, Mom."

As Tiger Woods begins this new chapter of his life, he is navigating both personal challenges and a renewed focus on those closest to him.

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Bruce Willis’ Daughter Reveals Big Plans For His 70th Birthday Amid Dementia Battle https://www.familytoday.com/family/bruce-willis-daughter-reveals-big-plans-for-his-70th-birthday-amid-dementia-battle/ Wed, 12 Mar 2025 18:33:23 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=71000 The "Die Hard" star has battled frontotemporal dementia since 2023, but his family has been close by the entire time.

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Bruce Willis' family is gearing up to celebrate his milestone 70th birthday on March 19th.

Scout, the daughter of Bruce and Demi Moore, offered a sneak peek of their family's plans for the special occasion while Bruce continues to battle dementia.

"You know, as we always celebrate," Scout shared with Fox News during the Cure Addiction Now inaugural fundraising event at The Beverly Hills Hotel, when asked about Bruce's birthday plans. "We are a huge unit. We are very supportive of one another, and it’s sort of like ironclad… we are so loving with one another. … I think that is the foundation of everything we do."

Cure Addiction Now (CAN) is a nonprofit organization focused on supporting innovative research into substance-use disorders.

Scout also took a moment to shout out her mother, Demi Moore. "It means everything to me because my mom is one of my favorite people on earth, and I'm so deeply proud of her," Scout said. "I have watched the amount of work that she's put in, and I've watched different moments where I think she's not been recognized for these really pivotal, culturally shifting moments that she's been a part of."

Scout added, "To watch everyone come together and feel themselves in her story, and in her vulnerability, is really profound to me."

In her return to Hollywood, Moore received a nomination for Best Actress from the Academy and won her first Golden Globe at 62. "Being nominated for an Oscar is an incredible honor and these last few months have been beyond my wildest dreams," Moore said in a statement. "Truly, there are no words to fully express my joy and overwhelming gratitude for this recognition. Not only for me but for what this film represents. I am deeply humbled."

Bruce and Moore have three daughters together: Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah. After their divorce, Bruce married model Emma Heming Willis in 2009 in Turks and Caicos, and they renewed their vows six days later in Beverly Hills. The couple has two daughters, Mabel, born in 2012, and Evelyn, born in 2014.

In March 2022, Willis announced he would be stepping away from acting following an aphasia diagnosis, which was later revealed to be frontotemporal dementia. Moore has recently spoken about her continued support in Bruce's life post-divorce. "We will always be a family, just in a different form," Moore told Variety. "For me, there was never a question. I show up because that’s what you do for the people you love."

Moore noted that she visits Willis weekly to support him through his health challenges and believes in the possibility of positive co-parenting. "I hope it’s encouraging for others to see that there’s a different way to do things. There is life after divorce. There is a way to co-parent with love."

Earlier this year, Rumer, Bruce and Moore's eldest daughter, provided an update on her father’s condition. "He’s doing great," the 36-year-old shared on the British talk show Loose Woman. "Because my family, we’re all so close. I think what’s so beautiful is the way that we rally around each other. [It’s] so lovely, because we really are a unit."

Rumer also commended Willis and Moore for being wonderful co-parents, which serves as an example for her own parenting journey.

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‘American Idol’ Finalist Emmy Russell Admits She Was ‘So Mad’ Judges Made Her Sing Grandma Loretta Lynn’s Song https://www.familytoday.com/family/american-idol-finalist-emmy-russell-admits-she-was-so-mad-judges-made-her-sing-grandma-loretta-lynns-song/ Mon, 10 Mar 2025 21:24:40 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=70883 The singer performed "Coal Miner's Daughter" on season 22 of 'American Idol.'

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In season 22 of American Idol, contestant Emmy Russell delivered a heartfelt tribute to her late grandmother, Loretta Lynn, with a performance of the iconic song Coal Miner's Daughter. However, if it had been up to Russell, she would have chosen not to sing the track at all.

Despite delivering an emotional and heartfelt performance, Russell admitted that she was initially frustrated when judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie selected the song for her.

During an episode of The Thrivalist Podcast with Jamie George, Russell explained her mixed feelings about the song choice. "On American Idol, I sang my grandma's song. The judges chose three songs, and the only one I knew was Coal Miner's Daughter. I was already dealing with so much and trying to be brave, and I just remember feeling really angry," she shared. Her other song options were Here You Come Again by Dolly Parton, and Suddenly I See by KT Tunstall, but she felt uneasy about performing her grandmother’s song, fearing it would contribute to perceptions of favoritism due to Lynn’s legendary status in country music.

Loretta Lynn, who passed away in October 2022 at the age of 90, left behind a musical legacy that deeply influenced Russell. When Russell saw Coal Miner's Daughter on the list, she felt a deep sadness as she was still mourning her grandmother’s passing. "It’s my grandma’s song. There’s nothing closer to the heart than family. I know Coal Miner’s Daughter so well, and I wanted to perform it as a tribute, like giving her a hug. I was just a granddaughter singing to her grandma. I need to be proud that I'm Loretta Lynn's granddaughter."

Despite her initial frustration, Russell ultimately decided to move forward with the performance, feeling a quiet inner prompting to continue. "I just felt a quiet voice telling me, 'I need you to stay, and I need you to show up,'" she said. She prepared the song on the piano just as she had envisioned it. Inspired by The Hunger Games, she motivated herself by imagining she was Katniss Everdeen.

Her touching rendition secured her a spot in the Top 7, and she eventually finished in the Top 5 of the competition, with Abi Carter winning the season. Reflecting on the experience, Russell said the performance marked a turning point in her relationship with her family's legacy. "This was the first time I felt proud to be part of my family. With family, there's a blessing but also a challenge. I closed my eyes and told her, 'I'm proud of you.' I hope that song helped others feel proud of their roots, too. I'm really thankful."

Music has been a part of Russell’s life since childhood. "I'm a songwriter," she shared in a video on American Idol. "It's in my blood. I wrote my first real song when I was about 9." She described songwriting as an emotional process, saying, "Sharing a song is a very vulnerable experience. Whatever I feel, I write. It just flows out of me. I turn to my iPhone and my piano – they are my closest companions when it comes to music. If I feel a melody, I record it on my iPhone. If it's a lyric, I do the same."

Her grandmother also played a significant role in shaping her musical journey. In an interview on Southern Living’s Biscuits & Jam podcast, Russell recalled a touching moment when Loretta Lynn passed down her guitar to her at age 15 during a performance at the Ryman Auditorium. "Memaw, as I called her, handed down her guitar to me and said, ‘You’re the one that can do it.’ Ever since I was little, she saw something special in me and felt the need to pass the guitar to me like a torch. Lord knows if I can handle that. It's a lot to take on."

Since her time on Idol, Russell has continued her musical journey while embracing new personal milestones. She and her partner, Tyler Ward, welcomed their first child, a daughter, in late January. Russell faced complications during childbirth and required a blood transfusion after losing 1.6 liters of blood.

Through it all, Russell has come to fully embrace her identity as Loretta Lynn's granddaughter while carving out her own path in the music industry. Her journey on American Idol was not just about competition but about honoring her grandmother’s legacy and finding her own voice in country music.

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Will Smith Blasted For ‘Inappropriate’ Performance With Spanish Singer India Martínez https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/will-smith-blasted-for-inappropriate-performance-with-spanish-singer-india-martinez/ Mon, 10 Mar 2025 20:41:14 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=70898 The pair nearly nearly kissed on stage during a steamy performance of their song, “First Love.”

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Will Smith is back in the headlines, once again drawing attention for his behavior at an awards event.

The 56-year-old actor faced a wave of social media backlash following his performance with Spanish singer India Martínez at Univision's 37th Premio Lo Nuestro Awards in Miami.

Martínez, 39, shared a clip on Instagram showing the two performing their song First Love on stage—an act that became more intimate than many expected. At one point, Smith leaned in as if to kiss Martínez, but she walked away. Moments later, she returned, touched the back of his head, and the two mimicked a kiss without actually locking lips.

Martínez captioned the post: "I want that first passion. I want those first hugs. I want those hard cries. I want that FIRST LOVE ♥🪭."

The performance quickly became a hot topic online, with many criticizing Smith for his behavior—especially in light of his high-profile separation from wife Jada Pinkett Smith in 2023.

One viewer called the moment “cringe 😬,” while another wrote, “Will Smith gives off really creepy old man vibes in this clip. Cringe.”

A third comment referenced Smith’s infamous Oscars slap: “I was waiting for Jada to come out from left stage and smack the sh!t outta her for kissing her man.”

Others questioned the appropriateness of the act, with one remarking, “Inappropriate. Even if it is ‘entertainment.’”

However, some fans defended the moment, arguing that it was all part of the performance. One user explained, “You can tell the attempt was a joke. They never actually kissed. The 2nd attempt when she came back, still no kiss—he leaned his forehead down as to get their lips further apart and backed away.”

The on-stage moment wasn’t the only source of speculation. After the event, Martínez posted another Instagram update, which included several photos from the night—one of which showed her backstage hugging Smith with her legs wrapped around him.

This wasn’t the first time the two have engaged in flirtatious exchanges.

On Valentine’s Day, Smith announced their song’s release on Instagram with a video of himself drawing a red heart on the screen, saying he released the track in celebration of the holiday. Martínez responded in the comments, “We’re like two children in their first love ❤.”

Just days later, Martínez shared a video featuring Smith, calling him her "very special CUPID." She expressed excitement over the song’s positive reception before blowing a kiss to the camera.

Smith also raised eyebrows when he liked a photo of Martínez wearing a form-fitting orange dress on the Premio Lo Nuestro red carpet.

Smith’s public separation from Jada Pinkett Smith, 53, has been a subject of widespread discussion. In October 2023, while promoting her memoir Worthy, Pinkett Smith revealed that she and the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star had actually been separated for seven years—a revelation that shocked many.

“I think by the time we got to 2016, we were just exhausted with trying,” she said during an interview on Today. “I think we were both kind of just still stuck in our fantasy of what we thought the other person should be.”

Despite their struggles, Pinkett Smith emphasized their commitment to staying married:

“I made a promise that there will never be a reason for us to get a divorce. We will work through whatever. And I just haven’t been able to break that promise.”

Smith’s complex personal life was further thrust into the spotlight during the 2022 Oscars, when he slapped Chris Rock after the comedian made a joke about Pinkett Smith’s alopecia. At the time, the public was unaware of the couple’s separation.

In December 2023, Pinkett Smith reflected on the infamous incident, revealing that it actually brought them closer.

“I call it the ‘holy slap’ now because so many positive things came after it,” she told Daily Mail’s YOU Magazine. “That moment of the s— hitting the fan is when you see where you really are.”

She added, “After all those years trying to figure out if I would leave Will’s side, it took that slap for me to see I will never leave him.”

Despite their unconventional dynamic, Smith and Pinkett Smith remain legally married. They tied the knot in 1997 and share two children: Jaden, 26, and Willow, 24. Smith also has an older son, Trey, 32, from his previous marriage to Sheree Zampino.

As Smith continues to make headlines—whether for his career, personal life, or on-stage antics—it’s clear that the world is still watching his every move.

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Friendships Vital For Health in Adults Over 50, New Study Finds https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/friendships-vital-for-health-in-adults-over-50-new-study-finds/ Mon, 06 Jan 2025 15:30:09 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=70277 The old saying about friendship being the best medicine may hold more truth than previously thought.

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For those over 50, maintaining close friendships goes beyond casual conversations over coffee; it plays a critical role in their health and overall well-being. A recent study uncovers a concerning trend: while 75 percent of older adults report having enough close friends, those experiencing poor mental or physical health are much less likely to sustain these important social connections. This finding highlights how health issues can lead to social isolation, potentially worsening health conditions.

The University of Michigan's National Poll on Healthy Aging surveyed 3,486 adults aged 50 to 94, offering detailed insights into how friendships evolve as people age and their essential role in promoting health and well-being. The study results reveal a complex relationship between health status and social ties that many might not fully appreciate.

"With growing understanding of the importance of social connection for older adults, it’s important to explore the relationship between friendship and health, and identify those who might benefit most from efforts to support more interaction," said University of Michigan demographer Sarah Patterson.

Patterson, a research assistant professor at the UM Institute for Social Research’s Survey Research Center, underscores the importance of comprehending these social networks. A significant 90 percent of adults over 50 say they have at least one close friend, with 48 percent maintaining one to three close friendships and 42 percent having four or more. However, these figures drop sharply for those dealing with health issues.

Among individuals with fair or poor mental health, 20 percent report having no close friends at all, which is double the overall rate. Similarly, 18 percent of those with fair or poor physical health report having no close friends, indicating that health challenges can severely impact social connections.

There's a notable gender difference in maintaining friendships: men are more likely than women to have no close friends. Age also plays a role, with adults aged 50 to 64 more likely to report lacking close friendships compared to those 65 and older—a somewhat surprising discovery that challenges the idea that social isolation increases with age.

Modern technology has helped older adults stay connected. In the month leading up to the survey, 78 percent of older adults had in-person contact with close friends, while 73 percent connected over the phone, and 71 percent used text messages. This multi-method approach shows how older adults are adapting to new ways of maintaining their friendships.

These findings resonate with AARP, a supporter of the study.

"This poll underscores the vital role friendships play in the health and well-being of older adults," says Indira Venkat, Senior Vice President of Research at AARP. "Strong social connections can encourage healthier choices, provide emotional support, and help older adults navigate health challenges, particularly for those at greater risk of isolation."

What stands out most is how close friends contribute to health and well-being. Of those with at least one close friend, 79 percent say they can definitely count on these friends for emotional support in good times or bad, and 70 percent feel confident turning to their friends for health-related discussions. These aren't just casual connections—they are crucial support systems influencing health behaviors and outcomes.

Consider this: 50 percent of older adults report that their close friends have encouraged them to make healthier choices, such as exercising more or eating better. Another 35 percent say friends motivated them to get concerning symptoms checked by a healthcare provider, and 29 percent received encouragement to quit unhealthy behaviors like poor eating habits or excessive drinking.

Practical support from friends is also significant: 32 percent had friends help them when sick or injured, 17 percent had friends pick up medications, and 15 percent had friends accompany them to medical appointments. These statistics highlight how friendship networks can serve as informal healthcare support systems.

The study, however, highlights a challenging paradox: forming and maintaining friendships becomes harder when people might need them the most. Among those with fair or poor mental health, 65 percent say making new friends is tougher now than when they were younger, compared to 42 percent of the overall population. Similarly, 61 percent of those with fair or poor mental health find it more difficult to maintain existing friendships, compared to 34 percent of the general over-50 population.

Despite this, there is a strong desire to form new friendships, with 75 percent of older adults expressing interest in developing new connections (14 percent very interested, 61 percent somewhat interested). This interest is especially strong among those who live alone or feel lonely, highlighting an awareness of the importance of social ties.

The study also identifies a noteworthy trend in friendships across different age groups. Of those with at least one close friend, 46 percent have a friend from a different generation (defined as at least 15 years older or younger). Of these, 52 percent have friends from both older and younger generations, while 35 percent have friends only from younger generations, and 13 percent have friends only from older generations. This diversity in age range suggests that meaningful connections can bridge generational gaps.

The implications of these findings extend beyond personal relationships. Healthcare providers are encouraged to acknowledge the crucial role that friends play in their patients’ health journeys, from promoting preventive care to supporting healthy habits. Community organizations are urged to create more opportunities for social interaction, especially those that are inclusive and accessible to individuals with varying health conditions.

"When health care providers see older adults, we should also ask about their social support network, including close friends, especially for those with more serious health conditions," says Dr. Jeffrey Kullgren, the poll director and primary care physician at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System.

Reflecting on the cycle of health and friendship highlighted in this study, it becomes evident that the old saying about friendship being the best medicine may hold more truth than previously thought. As healthcare increasingly focuses on holistic well-being, perhaps it's time to consider a friendship prescription as part of the standard of care.

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Heisman Winner Travis Hunter Defends Fiancée Against Criticism: ‘Get a Life’ https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/heisman-winner-travis-hunter-defends-fiancee-against-criticism-get-a-life/ Thu, 19 Dec 2024 21:02:09 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=70168 Leanna Lenee faced backlash after fans criticized her behavior during his Heisman Trophy celebration

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Travis Hunter, a standout player for the Colorado Buffaloes, ought to be reveling in his recent Heisman Trophy win. Instead, he found himself defending his fiancée against online critics.

Fans slammed Lenee's attitude at the Heisman Trophy awards ceremony after claiming that she didn't show excitement when Hunter's name was called. Further videos of Lenee have surfaced from an alleged meet-and-greet event, and to combat the hate, she's addressed and denied everything in a video, calling fans "bird-brained" for accepting narratives they read online.

"This Heisman ceremony, this is making me so mad because anyone who knows me knows I support Travis in every win, everything he does, because I truly love that man," Lenee said. "He is perfect in my eyes. So, when his name was called, his mom didn't get up so I was like, 'Oh, maybe I don't get up, maybe I just sit here.' So I sat there.

"As soon as I've seen Travis get up, then I thought it was appropriate to strand up, greet him, congratulate him. But then, there was a camera right in front of Coach Prime and I knew they were going to film that moment, and because of how people are online, I was like, 'I don't want to be in that shot, so I'm going to sit down.'

"So I try to sit down, so I'm not in the camera while I'm crying. People are going to be like, 'Why is she crying?' Stuff like that. And so I got out of the camera purposefully so they can have their moment. That's all it was. No one told me to stand up, no one told me to celebrate with him.

"I was just sitting there crying. I wanted to take it in myself too. I was super excited for him. But I wanted the moment to be about him and his family."

According to the New York Post, Hunter addressed the criticism during a Twitch livestream.

“You ain’t never had no girl so why are y’all talking about me,” he stated. “Find someone else to talk about. … Go talk about your girl. Go find a girl. Go find a life. Stop worrying about what I got going on. I know what I got.”

“My girl been with me for five years. y’all are just now starting to talk about me… y’all go do something else with y’all life.”

Hunter mentioned that he and Lenee were discussing their plans for the rest of the evening and noted that she became upset and cried all night as the criticisms poured in.

“I don’t want her to go to sleep sad. It’s hard on me because I can’t even help her.”

In an appearance on The Pivot Podcast before winning the Heisman Trophy, Hunter spoke warmly about Lenee.

“She’s my closest to everything, she helped me with everything. It’s kind of hard sometimes, but she’s always there,” he remarked.

Hunter is expected to be one of the top picks in the 2025 draft.

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Eminem’s Mother, Debbie Nelson, Passes Away at 69 After Battle With Lung Cancer https://www.familytoday.com/family/eminems-mother-debbie-nelson-passes-away-at-69-after-battle-with-lung-cancer/ Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:49:37 +0000 https://www.familytoday.com/?p=70042 Eminem’s relationship with his mother was famously complex, often chronicled in his music.

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Debbie Nelson, the mother of rap icon Eminem, has passed away at the age of 69 after a courageous battle with advanced lung cancer. She died Monday night in St. Joseph, Missouri, surrounded by loved ones, according to reports from TMZ.

Nelson's battle with cancer became public in September when sources revealed she was "terminally ill" and had limited time left. Despite their complicated history, Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, reportedly supported his mother financially throughout her illness, although the two had not been in regular contact for years.

"Eminem has always been good to his mom, ensuring she is cared for," a source shared. "But they haven't really spoken. This could have been an opportunity for reconciliation."

Debbie Nelson gave birth to Eminem in October 1972 at the age of 18. She was married to his father, Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr., but the couple divorced shortly after his birth. Their tumultuous relationship mirrored the struggles Nelson faced in raising her son, a narrative that would later emerge in Eminem's music.

The pair's rocky dynamic became infamous through Eminem's lyrics, particularly on his debut album, The Slim Shady LP. In 1999, Nelson sued her son for defamation, citing claims in his music that she used drugs. While she initially sought $11 million, Nelson was awarded $25,000 but reportedly received less than $2,000 after legal fees.

Despite these challenges, Nelson remained hopeful about repairing their bond. In a 2008 interview with Village Voice, she expressed her enduring love for her son, saying, "I'm not ever gonna give up on my kids. There's hope for everybody. It's a matter of swallowing your pride."

Her memoir, My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem, shed light on her life, including the abuse she endured as a child and the struggles of raising Eminem in poverty. The book also shares her perspective on their strained relationship.

In 2013, Eminem released "Headlights," a song that served as a public apology to his mother. The heartfelt lyrics acknowledged his regrets and expressed forgiveness, signaling a turning point in their relationship.

While Nelson did not attend her son's 2022 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, she sent a heartfelt congratulatory video message, expressing her pride in his achievements. "I love you very much," she said in the clip. "It's been a long ride. I'm very, very proud of you."

In addition to Eminem, Nelson had a younger son, Nathan Samra-Mathers, born in 1986. Nathan's early years were marked by instability, and he entered foster care before Eminem gained custody of him. Despite her personal struggles, Nelson's life story is a testament to resilience and the complexities of family bonds.

Debbie Nelson's passing marks the end of a chapter in one of hip-hop's most iconic narratives.

RIP.

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