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Selena Gomez is navigating 2026 as a newlywed, self-made business powerhouse and multifaceted entertainer, balancing personal milestones with the continued expansion of her Rare Beauty brand and select creative projects while keeping a relatively low profile on major red carpets.

The 33-year-old actress, singer and entrepreneur, who married music producer Benny Blanco in September 2025, has spent the early months of the year promoting her cosmetics line, sharing glimpses of married life and making a surprise cameo tied to her Disney roots. Gomez skipped several high-profile awards shows, including the 2026 Grammys and Oscars, citing scheduling conflicts and a focus on business commitments.

Gomez and Blanco attended the Golden Globes in January as a married couple, turning heads with coordinated Old Hollywood-inspired looks. She wore a custom Chanel gown, while the pair radiated “newlywed glow” on the red carpet. The night included a casual post-show dinner with her “Only Murders in the Building” co-stars Steve Martin and Martin Short at a diner, where Gomez shared photos of fries, waffles and wine on Instagram Stories.

Rare Beauty Expansion and Billionaire Status

A standout focus for Gomez in 2026 has been her beauty brand Rare Beauty, which launched its first major retail expansion beyond Sephora into more than 1,500 Ulta Beauty stores and Ulta.com beginning Feb. 1. The move marked the brand’s first broad physical retail push since its 2020 debut and included exclusive products and continued support for the Rare Impact Fund, which advances youth mental health initiatives.

Industry analysts valued Rare Beauty at approximately $2.7 billion following strong 2025 performance, including the successful launch of its first fragrance, Rare Eau de Parfum. Gomez, who holds a majority stake, has been recognized as a 2026 CNBC Changemaker for her leadership in growing the inclusive makeup line while prioritizing accessibility — such as designing the perfume bottle with input from hand therapists for users with dexterity challenges.

Reports estimate Gomez’s personal net worth between $1.3 billion and $1.5 billion, with the bulk tied to her equity in Rare Beauty. She has reportedly rejected buyout offers to maintain creative control, solidifying her reputation as a “founder-first” celebrity entrepreneur. In early 2026, she promoted the Ulta rollout with events in New York and Los Angeles, sharing behind-the-scenes moments on social media.

Personal Life and Family Aspirations

Gomez has been open about married life with Blanco. In March, she appeared on the debut episodes of Blanco’s podcast “Friends Keep Secrets,” discussing their relationship, her mental health journey with bipolar disorder and lupus, and her dreams of having four children. She acknowledged health challenges that make carrying a pregnancy difficult but expressed openness to surrogacy or adoption, calling a large family her “dream for sure.”

The couple celebrated Blanco’s birthday with a Western-themed party, and Gomez shared intimate photos from their life together in mid-March, including cozy moments that fans praised for their authenticity. Gomez has described the early months of marriage as “a dream,” emphasizing the joy of partnership after years of public scrutiny.

Nostalgic Disney Return and Acting Outlook

Fans received a delightful surprise in late March with Gomez’s cameo in the “Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special” streaming on Disney+. Miley Cyrus revealed the reunion, with the pair exchanging warm words on screen: “You created culture, babe,” and “You too.” The appearance marks a full-circle moment for Gomez, who rose to fame on Disney Channel with “Wizards of Waverly Place.”

“Only Murders in the Building” remains a steady vehicle for Gomez, with the Hulu series earning ensemble nominations into 2026, though she and co-stars were absent from some ceremonies due to personal reasons, including Martin Short’s family loss. Gomez continues as both star and executive producer.

No new studio album has been confirmed for 2026, though Gomez and Blanco earned a joint Grammy nomination for their song “Bluest Flame” from the collaborative project “I Said I Love You First.” The couple skipped the Grammys ceremony, with Gomez prioritizing a Rare Beauty event instead. Speculation about a solo album or joint tour persists, but official announcements remain absent as of late March, and Ticketmaster lists no confirmed 2026 concert dates.

Gomez skipped the 2026 Oscars, noting no eligible film projects this year and no presenter role. She instead shared casual Instagram content from Rare Beauty promotions.

Health, Advocacy and Public Image

Gomez has remained candid about her ongoing mental health and physical challenges, using platforms to destigmatize bipolar disorder and lupus. Her Rare Impact Fund continues to channel proceeds toward mental health resources for young people, aligning business success with philanthropy.

In a landscape where celebrity brands often face scrutiny, Rare Beauty’s focus on inclusivity and accessibility has helped it stand out. Gomez’s no-makeup selfies and relaxed social media posts in early 2026 projected a grounded image amid her high-profile life.

Looking Ahead

As spring 2026 unfolds, Gomez appears selective with commitments, prioritizing her marriage, business empire and selective creative outings like the Disney special. Industry watchers anticipate potential new music or expanded acting roles later in the year, possibly tied to “Only Murders” or other projects, while Rare Beauty’s Ulta rollout is expected to drive further growth.

Gomez’s trajectory reflects a deliberate shift toward sustainability — building lasting enterprises rather than chasing constant spotlight. From Disney child star to billionaire beauty mogul and content producer, she has carved a unique path that resonates with fans seeking authenticity alongside glamour.

Whether through a fresh album, deeper family plans or continued brand innovation, Gomez’s 2026 chapter underscores her evolution into one of entertainment’s most influential multi-hyphenates. Fans continue to follow her journey closely, celebrating the balance she strikes between vulnerability and ambition.

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Erika Kirk, the widow of assassinated conservative activist Charlie Kirk and current chairwoman and CEO of Turning Point USA, is navigating a turbulent period marked by intensified legal threats against online detractors, public scrutiny over her leadership style, and continued efforts to advance her late husband’s mission through a national speaking tour and political engagement.

Kirk has sent a fresh cease-and-desist letter to the operator of Project Constitution, accusing him of defamation for alleging her involvement in Charlie Kirk’s September 2025 assassination and unsubstantiated claims linking her to sex trafficking tied to Jeffrey Epstein. The letter asserts that such statements are “absolutely false and made with actual malice,” escalating a broader battle against far-right influencers and conspiracy theorists who have questioned her grief, personal life and role at the influential conservative organization.

Charlie Kirk, the co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed on the campus of Utah Valley University in September 2025 during a speaking event. Erika Kirk, who had been married to him since 2018, quickly assumed leadership of the organization and has since positioned herself as the steward of his legacy, frequently describing her work as a way for “daddy to continue to live on forever” through the group’s mission.

In recent weeks, Kirk has responded to a wave of viral memes and satirical content mocking her public appearances and persona. Comedian Druski’s sketch impersonating “how conservative women in America act,” which included a portrayal widely seen as referencing Kirk, drew tens of millions of views and sparked backlash from some conservative circles who called it disrespectful to a grieving widow. Kirk addressed the memes in a recent statement, pushing back against what she described as unfair attacks while maintaining focus on her faith-driven work.

Despite the online controversies, Kirk has remained active on the national stage. In February 2026, she attended the State of the Union address as one of President Donald Trump’s invited guests, where Trump acknowledged her presence and called for rejection of political violence in memory of her husband. She has also been appointed by Trump to the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, replacing her late husband on the advisory panel.

Kirk launched the “Make Heaven More Crowded” tour in January 2026, kicking it off at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California, alongside pastor Greg Laurie. The tour, which blends calls for Christian revival, prayer and conservative values, has included stops across the country, though some events — such as a planned appearance in Orlando — were postponed amid venue controversies. She has vowed to help build a “red wall” for Republican candidates in the 2026 and 2028 elections.

Public appearances have not been without friction. A scheduled visit to the Utah State Capitol in February, where she was to receive a citation, was canceled after news of the event leaked. Kirk has also faced internal and external questions about Turning Point USA’s direction under her leadership, with some critics accusing her of shifting the organization’s tone or priorities.

Legal proceedings related to her husband’s death continue. Kirk has invoked a rare Utah victims’ rights law to push for a speedy trial of the accused gunman, Tyler Robinson, arguing against defense delays. She publicly forgave the accused killer during a large memorial service attended by Trump and Vice President JD Vance in September 2025.

Online discourse around Kirk has grown increasingly polarized. Some conservative voices, including Candace Owens, have launched investigative-style series questioning aspects of Kirk’s background, past statements and personal life, including claims about her upbringing and other personal details. Kirk’s supporters dismiss these as baseless attacks aimed at undermining a prominent conservative woman, while detractors continue to circulate unverified theories. Kirk has largely avoided engaging directly with the most extreme claims, instead redirecting attention to Turning Point USA’s youth outreach and faith-based initiatives.

At 37 years old, Erika Kirk (née Frantzve) has emerged as a more visible public figure than before her husband’s death. Born in 1988, she previously worked in business and nonprofit roles. She and Charlie Kirk had been vocal about their Christian faith and traditional values, and she has continued that emphasis in her speeches, often framing her leadership as a divine calling.

Turning Point USA, founded in 2012, focuses on conservative activism on college campuses and among young people. Under Erika Kirk’s leadership, the organization has maintained its events and programming while navigating the emotional and operational challenges following the assassination.

Kirk has spoken openly about the grief process, describing moments of finding “divine work” in tragedy while also facing criticism from some quarters that her public activities — including high-profile events and merchandise efforts — do not align with traditional expectations of mourning. She has rejected such judgments, stating that continuing her husband’s work honors his memory.

As 2026 progresses, Kirk faces a complex landscape: leading a major conservative nonprofit, defending against defamation claims, countering online satire and speculation, and positioning herself within the broader Trump-aligned political movement. She has endorsed JD Vance for future leadership roles and maintains a close relationship with the Trump circle.

Supporters view her as a resilient figure carrying forward an important legacy amid personal loss. Critics, including some within conservative media, question her authenticity or motives. The intense scrutiny reflects the highly charged nature of contemporary political discourse, where personal tragedy quickly intersects with ideological battles.

Kirk continues to emphasize themes of faith, revival and rejection of political violence in her public remarks. Whether her legal actions against critics will deter further attacks or fuel more speculation remains to be seen. For now, she appears focused on Turning Point USA’s mission and her tour, while navigating the spotlight that has intensified since September 2025.

The coming months could bring further developments in the legal case surrounding her husband’s death, additional tour stops, and ongoing debates about her role in conservative politics. As one of the most visible women in the movement, Erika Kirk’s every move draws attention from allies and adversaries alike.

The Powerball jackpot has rolled over to an estimated $166 million for Saturday night’s drawing after no ticket matched all six numbers in Wednesday’s drawing, lottery officials said.

The estimated cash value for the Saturday, March 28, 2026, drawing stands at approximately $74.5 million, offering players a choice between the annuitized jackpot paid over 30 years or the immediate lump-sum option. Drawings are held at 10:59 p.m. ET every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

Wednesday’s winning numbers were 7, 21, 55, 56 and 64, with a Powerball of 26 and a Power Play multiplier of 4x. While there was no jackpot winner, lower-tier prizes were claimed across the country, including two tickets that won $2 million and $1 million in some states through matching five numbers or with Power Play.

The jackpot had stood at an estimated $148 million with a cash value of about $66.9 million heading into Wednesday’s draw. With another rollover, the prize has grown for the Saturday drawing, continuing a pattern of steady increases that often captivates players when the top prize climbs into nine figures.

Powerball is played in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Tickets cost $2, with an optional $1 Power Play add-on that can multiply non-jackpot prizes. Sales typically surge as the jackpot rises, with players dreaming of life-changing windfalls.

The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot remain 1 in 292,201,338, making it one of the longest shots in American lotteries. Despite the slim chances, the allure of a massive payout draws millions of ticket buyers, especially when the prize exceeds $100 million.

Lottery officials remind players that every ticket has the same chance of winning regardless of where or when it is purchased. They also urge responsible play, recommending that people set a budget and treat lottery tickets as entertainment rather than an investment strategy.

For Saturday’s drawing, players have until approximately 9:59 p.m. local time in most jurisdictions to purchase tickets, though cutoffs vary slightly by state. Online sales are available in many participating states through official lottery apps or websites.

The most recent Powerball jackpot was won earlier in March when a ticket sold in Arkansas claimed a $250.8 million prize on March 2. That winner had the option to take the cash value or the annuity.

Powerball jackpots begin at $20 million and increase with each drawing that has no grand-prize winner. The prize grows based on ticket sales and interest rates, which affect the cash value calculation.

In addition to the jackpot, Powerball offers nine other prize tiers, ranging from $4 for matching just the Powerball to millions for matching five white balls. The Power Play option can increase those prizes up to 10 times in some cases, though the multiplier for the jackpot itself does not apply.

As of late Saturday morning, the countdown to the drawing showed roughly 13 hours remaining until the 10:59 p.m. ET drawing time. Players across the country were checking their tickets from previous drawings and buying new ones in hopes of becoming the next multimillionaire.

Financial advisers caution that sudden wealth from lottery winnings comes with challenges, including taxes — federal withholding of 24% plus potential state taxes — and the need for professional guidance on managing large sums. Many past winners have opted for the cash value to gain immediate control over the funds.

Stories of past Powerball winners often highlight both the opportunities and pitfalls of sudden riches. Some have used winnings to fund education, start businesses or support charities, while others have faced personal struggles after the initial excitement.

The Multi-State Lottery Association, which administers Powerball, emphasizes transparency in jackpot estimations and prize payouts. Official results are posted shortly after each drawing on powerball.com and through state lottery websites.

For those playing Saturday, common number-picking strategies include quick picks, birthdays, anniversaries or “hot” and “cold” numbers based on past frequency. However, every combination has an equal probability.

As the clock ticks down to the March 28 drawing, excitement is building in convenience stores, gas stations and online platforms where tickets are sold. In states like California, Florida, New York and Texas, which often see high sales volumes, retailers report increased foot traffic when jackpots reach this level.

The $166 million annuity equates to 30 graduated annual payments, starting lower and increasing over time. The cash value represents the amount available if the winner chooses the lump sum, which is invested to fund the annuity option for future jackpots.

Powerball has created hundreds of millionaires since its inception, with some prizes reaching well over $1 billion in recent years. The game’s sister lottery, Mega Millions, also frequently produces massive jackpots, giving players multiple opportunities for big wins.

With no winner on Wednesday, attention now turns fully to Saturday night. If the jackpot goes unclaimed again, it will roll over once more for the Monday drawing, potentially climbing higher.

Players are encouraged to sign the back of their tickets immediately after purchase and keep them in a safe place. They should also double-check numbers against official results, as unclaimed prizes eventually return to state lotteries for education and other programs in many jurisdictions.

As the drawing approaches, the message from lottery officials remains consistent: play responsibly, have fun and remember the long odds. For one lucky ticket holder on Saturday, however, those odds could deliver a life-altering $166 million prize — or the $74.5 million cash alternative.

The drawing will be broadcast live and results will be available shortly afterward on official channels. Whether the jackpot is claimed or rolls over again, Powerball continues to capture the imagination of players hoping for that one-in-a-lifetime break.