Chuck Norris built a reputation over decades as one of Hollywood’s toughest action stars, inspiring countless internet memes that portrayed him as nearly invincible. According to his son, Dakota Norris, one real-life family experience may have helped fuel that larger-than-life image.

The Blast attended a press conference hosted by Raising Cane’s in Cypress, Texas, where founder Todd Graves joined Chuck Norris’ widow, Gena O’Kelley, and the couple’s children, Danilee and Dakota Norris, to celebrate a new $1 million fundraising campaign benefiting Kickstart Kids ahead of National Chicken Finger Day on July 27.

While much of the event focused on Chuck Norris’ charitable legacy and the impact of the youth martial arts organization he founded, Dakota Norris shared a story that left the room laughing, a memory involving a powerful tornado, a frightened family, and a father who appeared completely unfazed by the danger.

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During the press conference, Dakota was asked to share a memorable story about his father, prompting him to recall a frightening weather event that unfolded at the Norris family ranch in 2017. According to Dakota, a tornado touched down on the property, causing widespread damage and sending family members scrambling for safety.

“I mean, it’s just part of his personality, but in 2017, we had a tornado that actually hit our ranch,” Dakota said. “It was bad. It was throwing cow feeders all over the place. I mean, it was horrible. It looked like the apocalypse outside.”

As the storm intensified, Dakota said family members rushed to wake everyone up and gather beneath a staircase for protection. The only problem? Chuck Norris didn’t seem particularly interested in taking cover.

While Everyone Else Hid Under The Stairs, Chuck Norris Walked Outside

Dakota explained that as the family hurried to safety, they attempted to convince the martial arts legend to join them. Instead, Chuck Norris reportedly took a very different approach. “We were like, ‘Dad, get under the stairs,’” Dakota recalled.

Rather than following their advice, Norris walked outside to get a better look at the approaching storm. “He goes outside,” Dakota said. “He’s watching the tornado cycle.”

For Dakota and the rest of the family, the sight was almost unbelievable. As they remained sheltered indoors, Chuck Norris stood outside observing the tornado as if it were just another day on the ranch.

Chuck Norris Looked At His Family And Went Back To Bed

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The story only became more unbelievable from there. According to Dakota, after watching the tornado, his father looked back at his family members who were huddled beneath the stairs with their dogs. Then he made a decision that perfectly matched the fearless image millions of fans had associated with him for decades.

“He looks at us, he sees we’re under the stairs,” Dakota said before imitating his dad shrugging. “Ah, I’m gonna go back to bed.”

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The remark prompted laughter throughout the room as Dakota described the surreal scene. “I just remember him crossing his arms, just looking at it,” he added of Chuck standing outside, clearly admiring Mother Nature while the rest of the family remained terrified under the staircase.

When asked whether anyone had captured the moment on video, Dakota admitted they had not. “No, I didn’t,” he said. “I was 15.”

Gena O’Kelley Says Her Husband Truly Was Fearless

After Dakota finished recounting the story, O’Kelley said the tornado incident perfectly reflected the man she knew throughout their nearly 30-year marriage. “That was him,” she said. “Definitely fearless.”

The moment also highlighted the personality traits that helped turn Norris into a cultural icon long before the internet transformed him into a meme. Known worldwide for films like “Way of the Dragon” and television’s “Walker, Texas Ranger,” Norris built a reputation for toughness that eventually evolved into the famous “Chuck Norris Facts” phenomenon of the early 2000s.

During the same press conference, O’Kelley revealed that her husband initially believed the jokes would disappear after a few months. Instead, they introduced him to an entirely new generation of fans around the world.

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The Story Comes As Chuck Norris’ Legacy Continues Through Kickstart Kids

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The family shared the tornado story while celebrating a major milestone for Kickstart Kids, the youth development organization Norris founded to teach children discipline, confidence, respect, and leadership through martial arts. The event marked the launch of Raising Cane’s nationwide fundraising campaign, which aims to raise $1 million for the organization through donations tied to National Chicken Finger Day.

Norris died in 2026 at age 86, but his family made it clear that both his charitable mission and larger-than-life reputation remain very much alive.

Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger III, widely regarded as the American hero who landed US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River, has recently opened up about a heartbreaking diagnosis. In a new interview, the 75-year-old aviation safety advocate said that after struggling with his memory for a little over a year, he spoke with a doctor, who informed him he’s been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

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Speaking with PEOPLE, Sullenberger said he learned he had Alzheimer’s in August 2025 after realizing he was beginning to forget key details.

While it’s still in the early stages, Sullenberger said the disease has a major impact on his day-to-day.

“For now, this means a name may not come easily to me, I forget a story I have recently told, or I don’t sleep as well,” he said.

Alzheimer’s affects around 24 million people worldwide, and one in 10 people older than 65 has it, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Since receiving his diagnosis, Sullenberger said he’s been learning just how widespread the disease, which slowly damages your memory, thinking, learning, and organizing skills, really is.

“My doctor, Dr. Gil Rabinovici with UCSF Medical Center, has opened my eyes to the prevalence of Alzheimer’s,” he said, adding that he’s learned the disease “spares no age group.”

Captain Sullenberger’s Wife Opens Up About How Her Husband’s Diagnosis Has Affected Their Family

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Despite the diagnosis, Sullenberger’s wife, Lorrie, told PEOPLE that it hasn’t done much to affect his even-keeled demeanor. “Just as he was the same steady person before and after Flight 1549, he is the same steady person now, before and after this diagnosis,” she said.

Lorrie, along with her and Sullenberger’s two daughters and granddaughter, is taking each day one at a time and living with appreciation and gratitude.

“That strength and steadiness is guiding us as a family. We’re supporting him on this journey that we now walk with so many other families. Though the future is uncertain, we continue to live our lives, have hope, and find joy in the everyday,” she added.

Captain Sully Sullenberger Wants To Use His Public Profile To Educate And Support Others About The Disease

Since being diagnosed, Sullenberger said his focus has been on learning more about the disease to educate not only himself and his family, but also those dealing with the disorder.

“This new phase of my life has challenged what it means to be of service,” he said. “And the answer is to speak up. It is my hope that by sharing this, other families living in the shadows with this disease will feel they too can step forward. And about hope. So many people told us after Flight 1549, that the outcome gave them hope. Lorrie, my incredible partner of 37 years, says we can all use a little of that hope right now.”

Danny Glover Got Candid About His Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Earlier This Year

Sullenberger isn’t the only public figure using their voice to spread awareness. According to TODAY, actor Danny Glover opened up about his diagnosis earlier this year, revealing that he learned of his status after noticing a change in his speech and memory.

Glover’s daughter, Mandisa Glover, told NBC anchors that part of the reason they wanted to come forward with his story was to help break barriers and remove the shame around the disorder.

“I think it’s really important for him to have control of his own narrative, of his own life story,” she said. “That’s really important. And the time is now. What better time but now for him to speak for himself?”

Mandisa also said that coming forward allows her family to live in their truth. “It’s important because people ask questions sometimes, and I don’t want to be a dishonest person and say, ‘Oh, yeah, everything is all right. It’s all great,’” she added.

Chris Hemsworth Said There’s A Chance He Could Be Diagnosed With The Disease In The Future

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In 2022, Marvel actor Chris Hemsworth shared that he has a genetic predisposition for Alzheimer’s disease, making him eight to 10 times more likely to develop the disorder in the future.

He wrestled with sharing the news publicly, according to Variety, saying that doing so would reveal some of his deepest fears and insecurities.

While Hemsworth is healthy at the moment, the actor confirmed that his grandfather and father had been diagnosed, prompting him to pull back from Hollywood.

“My appetite for racing forward has really been reined in,” he said. “I’ve become more aware of the fragility of things. You start thinking, ‘My dad won’t be here for ever.’ And my kids are now 11 and 13. Those nights where they’d fight over sleeping in our bed – suddenly they’re not happening any more.”

Ariana Grande is dipping her feet back in the dating pond again with a familiar face.

Us Weekly can confirm the Grammy winner, 33, and Ricky Alvarez are back together nearly 10 years after their initial split. (People was first to report the news.)

“They’ve always shared a close bond,” an insider exclusively told Us earlier this month after the pair were seen leaving a Whole Foods in Boca Raton, Florida, during the 4th of July weekend. “There was a period in time where they weren’t close — while she was with Ethan [Slater] — so she is happy to reconnect with him again.”

The source continued, “Ariana is grateful to have him in her life right now, and he’s been a huge source of support.”

News broke in June that Grande had officially called it quits with Slater, 34, after nearly three years of dating. At the time, a source said they had been quietly broken up for several months.

“It’s amicable. They gave lots of time and careful consideration and decided to go their separate ways,” the insider shared at the time. “They are still friends and very supportive of one another.”

In recent days, fans have kept their focus on Alvarez, especially after Grande changed the lyrics to one of her hit songs during a concert at the Barclays Center in New York on Monday, July 13.

On her original 2018 single “Thank U, Next,” the singer referenced her previous romance with Alvarez while name-checking numerous exes, reminiscing, “Wrote some songs about Ricky / Now I listen and laugh.”

During her recent concert, however, Grande switched the lyrics to “Wrote some songs about Ricky / We always find our way back.”

She also previously fueled reconciliation rumors during her show in Austin, Texas, on June 26, singing to the crowd, “Wrote some songs about Ricky / Know he still got my back.”

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Related: Ariana Grande Through the Years: Photos

Since her humble beginnings in Boca Raton, Florida, Ariana Grande has become one of the most recognizable names in the entertainment industry. The singer had a knack for entertaining from an early age, performing at various children’s theaters and in local musicals before landing her first major role as Cat Valentine on the Nickelodeon show […]

Alvarez is a successful photographer who shares his work on social media. He previously was a backup dancer for Grande on her 2014 to 2015 Honeymoon Tour. They started dating in 2015 before calling it quits in 2016.

While appearing on the Zach Sang Show in 2019, Grande revealed that Alvarez frequently joked about his shout-out in “Thank U, Next.”

“Ricky loved it. He was proud. But Ricky was like, ‘Why did I get the worst line?’ And I was like, ‘What do you mean?’” she recalled. “He was like, ‘Everyone else’s line is so nice, and mine is like, ‘Man, f*** him, he’s trash.’ I was like, I could have said that. I could’ve said, ‘Wrote some songs about Ricky, never mind he’s trash.’ … But I didn’t. I said, ‘Now I listen and laugh.’”

For Raising Cane’s founder Todd Graves, Chuck Norris was more than a Hollywood legend. He was a mentor, a friend, and someone whose leadership lessons helped shape the culture of one of America’s fastest-growing restaurant brands.

Speaking at a Raising Cane’s press conference in Cypress, Texas, attended by The Blast, Graves reflected on his years-long friendship with Norris while celebrating a new fundraising initiative benefiting Kickstart Kids, the youth development organization the martial arts icon founded.

While discussing their longtime friendship, Todd Graves shared details about a rare gift Chuck Norris presented him years ago, along with an unexpected act of generosity that left a lasting impression on him and his leadership team.

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Graves explained that his admiration for Norris began long before the two became friends.

Like many fans, he grew up watching Norris’ films and was captivated by the martial arts icon’s larger-than-life presence. But after launching Raising Cane’s and learning what it meant to lead a growing company, Graves found himself drawn to a different side of Norris. “I started learning about leadership,” Graves said. “I saw posters of Chuck Norris’ codes of conduct, and I actually put those posters up in the restaurant.”

The Raising Cane’s founder said those leadership principles became discussion points for managers and crew members alike, eventually helping shape the company’s culture.

Their relationship deepened when Graves became involved with Kickstart Kids, the youth development organization Norris founded to teach children discipline, confidence, and leadership through martial arts. Over time, Graves said Norris evolved from childhood hero to trusted mentor. “He really became a mentor,” Graves told reporters.

Norris Surprised Graves With A Rare Personal Gift

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One of the most memorable moments in their friendship came during a Kickstart Kids ceremony when Norris presented Graves with something deeply personal.

According to Graves, Norris handed him one of his own karate gis bearing the Kickstart Kids logo and explained that it was a gesture he had only made one other time. “He said, ‘Todd, I’ve only done this for you and for George W. Bush,’” Graves recalled.

Norris reportedly told Graves the gift was in recognition of his leadership and his commitment to supporting Kickstart Kids and the children served by the program. “For your leadership of your people and your support of all these children out here,” Graves remembered Norris saying.

The gesture left him stunned. “My hero and now a mentor to me,” Graves said. “I was just blown away.”

Today, the gi remains displayed in Raising Cane’s headquarters, where employees can see it and hear the story behind it. “It’s one of my greatest treasures,” Graves later added.

Chuck Norris Wrote Fourteen Pages Of Handwritten Leadership Notes For Cane’s Managers

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While the gifted gi holds a special place in Graves’ collection, he said another gesture from Norris may have had an even greater impact. After learning about Raising Cane’s leadership retreat for restaurant managers, Norris offered to speak to the group. Graves expected the actor to spend a few minutes sharing advice from his decades of experience. Instead, Norris arrived with 14 pages of handwritten notes.

“I said, ‘Chuck, if you can just talk to them for five minutes and inspire them, I think it’ll go a long way,’” Graves recalled, but Norris took the opportunity far more seriously. “He came, and he brought out like 14 pages of handwritten notes,” Graves said before holding up the binder he still owns, complete with handwritten pages from Norris.

The Speech Left A Lasting Impression On Raising Cane’s Leaders

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Graves said Norris meticulously walked through the material, sharing lessons about leadership, perseverance, character, and overcoming fear. The speech resonated deeply with the audience. “Our team was blown away,” Graves said. “Our leaders were blown away.”

Years later, he says employees still talk about the presentation. “We still talk about it,” Graves explained. “This is the greatest speech anybody’s ever done for me in our leadership.”

What struck him most was the amount of effort Norris invested despite having no obligation to do so. “He wanted to really touch people,” Graves said. “That’s why he was there.”

Among the lessons Graves remembers most was Norris’ belief that confidence is built by confronting challenges head-on and pushing through discomfort. For Graves, the speech reflected the same humility and character that made Norris such an effective mentor.

Raising Cane’s Founder Says Chuck Norris’ Legacy Lives On Through Leadership

The emotional reflections came as Raising Cane’s announced a nationwide campaign aimed at raising $1 million for Kickstart Kids, a cause that remained close to Norris’ heart throughout his life.

Norris, who died in 2026 at age 86, spent decades supporting youth development programs and encouraging young people to embrace discipline, respect, and service. For Graves, the lessons Norris shared continue to influence both his personal life and the company he built.

The treasured gi and the handwritten leadership notes serve as constant reminders of the man behind the action-star persona. “I wanted to preserve it,” Graves said of the gifts and memories Norris left behind.

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More than anything, he hopes future generations of Raising Cane’s leaders can learn from the same values Norris worked so hard to pass on. “It’s the gift that keeps on giving,” Graves said.

The neo-Western genre has become hugely successful on TV in recent years, thanks in no small part to Taylor Sheridan‘s hit franchise. Great as Yellowstoneis, though, real ones will definitely know that the genre has been around much longer on both big and small screens, and that one particular show played a key role in popularizing the neo-Western more than a decade ago. Starring Timothy Olyphant as U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, FX’s Justified was so good that it also helped strengthen his career, launch others, and was even brought back in 2023 for a revival, Justified: City Primeval, which, in turn, established a shared universe of its own.

‘Justified’ Was Brought Back With a Limited Series

The story of Justified begins when Raylan Givens is transferred back to his hometown in Harlan County, Kentucky, after shooting a mob boss on a crowded hotel rooftop in Miami. Over the following seasons, Justified follows Raylan as he is forced to confront his demons, since most of his cases are connected to people from his own past, including former friends and close relatives. The gritty, decaying setting of Harlan reflects Raylan’s own troubles, and his confronting this is part of what makes the original series so good.

Justified: City Primeval revolves around a similar premise, but takes a completely different route. This time, Raylan finds himself in Detroit alongside his now-teenage daughter Willa (Vivian Olyphant), where local authorities need his help to catch the Oklahoma Wildman, Clement Mansell (Boyd Holbrook). In many ways, Raylan and Mansell are opposite sides of the same coin; both are deeply angry, but while Raylan tries his hardest not to hurt everyone around him, Mansell indulges in it, becoming a hedonistic killing machine.

Unfortunately, there has been no news about another sequel following the end of Justified: City Primeval. It’s a shame, especially considering how the series ends on a cliffhanger that ties back to the original Justified. As we wait for Raylan Givens to be somehow rescued from this limbo, however, there are plenty of other stories set within the same universe, because Justified inadvertently started its own shared universe way back.

‘Justified’ Was a Part of the First Neo-Western Shared Universe on TV

Image via FX

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A neo-Western shared universe isn’t anything new to Justified fans because the FX series isn’t an original story, but rather an adaptation of author Elmore Leonard‘s work. Leonard is widely regarded as one of the best crime novelists of the past century, and, in an incredibly serendipitous turn, his best characters all found their way into each other’s stories on TV, thanks to Justified.

Justified: City Primeval is pretty straightforward about its connections to other Leonard stories. Raylan himself isn’t the original protagonist of Leonard’s story City Primeval: High Noon in Detroit, on which the miniseries is based; that’s Detective Raymond Cruz, who both appears in Justified: City Primeval and serves as a key character in Steven Soderbergh‘s 1998 movie Out of Sight — and is played by actor Paul Calderón in both instances.

The original Justified series has another blink-and-you’ll-miss-it connection to Out of Sight. One of the movie’s protagonists is Karen Sisco (Jennifer Lopez), a hot-headed U.S. Marshal who works closely with Cruz to catch bank robber Jack Foley (George Clooney). Later, in 2003, ABC gave the character her own series, Karen Sisco, starring Carla Gugino, and nearly a decade later, Gugino appeared in Justified as Karen Goodall, who is essentially the same character, due to rights issues.

‘Justified’s Revival Proves There Will Always Be a Demand for Raylan Givens

With so many connections, links, and nods amongst themselves, these screen adaptations of Leonard’s works represent the first neo-Western shared universe, way before Yellowstone even existed. Sadly, Justified: City Primeval didn’t get the ratings it deserved, but one thing the revival did perfectly was prove that there will always be a demand for more Justified, and the door has certainly been left open for more.

Justified‘s Raylan Givens isn’t Olyphant’s first time playing a lawman, as he first stepped into the role of Seth Bullock in HBO’s Deadwood. Luckily, the character type suits him; otherwise, Justified wouldn’t have become such a hit or gone on to earn a sequel series. Together, Justified and City Primeval tell the story of one of television’s best protagonists. Hopefully, it won’t be long until we see him again, because both series were successful in their own ways.

By Jonathan Klotz
| Published 12 seconds ago

If you read that headline, and immediately was filled with the rage of a thousand burning suns, let this be your reminder to stretch. We may be getting old, but we still get unreasonably angry over the inability to put together a three-piece statue. It had a top, a middle, and a base. That’s it. It’s not difficult. Nickelodeon’s Legend of the Hidden Temple started airing in 1993, went off the air in 1995, but its impact has traumatized a generation. 

Legends Of The Hidden Temple Was An Afterschool Staple

Legend of the Hidden Temple was one of the many game shows filmed at the network’s Universal Studio location in the early 90s. This one pit six teams against each other in a race across the temple moat. The Red Jaguars, Green Monkeys, Blue Barracudas, Orange Iguanas, Silver Snakes, and the best of them, Purple Parrots, were all comprised of one boy and one girl, and after the race, only four would be left to descend the Steps of Knowledge. This was the shoe-horned in “educational” component of the show with questions centered around the legendary artifact they have to receive from the Temple at the end of the game. 

Round 3 let teams win pendants, and the team with the most at the end of three games was able to go on a run through the Temple. This was why every kid was watching Legend of the Hidden Temple in the first place. We all daydreamed about making the run, going from room to room, evading temple guards, and getting the artifact. Waiting for every team at some point during the run was the Shrine of the Silver Monkey. It spelled doom for all of the idiot pre-teens. 

That’s what I thought at least, watching from the floor after I got home from school. The pieces of the monkey were set around the room at random, and yet, for some reason, countless kids would try to put the head on the base. Or install the middle without the base in place. Even pure guessing trial and error should get them to the right combination. THERE WERE ONLY THREE PIECES. What I didn’t know as a kid watching, was the depths of evil that the show’s producers tapped into when designing the Silver Monkey.

I knew it was frustrating for the contestants between the host, Kirk Fogg, the studio lights, the audience cheering them on, and the very tight three minute time limit. What I didn’t know until later was that the statue was purposely designed to be as difficult as possible. The head of the statue has a pole that goes through the middle and the base at the right angle, will hit a button at the bottom that opens the door to the next room. It was especially brutal for the shorter contestants. 

Now, host Kirk Fogg and co-host Olmec (voiced by Dee Bradley Baker) never let on that there was an added degree of difficulty. The angle was purposely designed to be hard, and looking back, the pedestal was set up juuuuust high enough to where it would be hard to aim the rod. Every kid watching Legends of the Hidden Temple was getting angry at the wrong people. 

The Forgotten Legend Of The Hidden Temple Movie

In 2016, Nickelodeon aired the TV movie Legend of the Hidden Temple, starring DC’s Hawkgirl Isabela Merced as Sadie, which brought back Fogg and Baker to reprise their roles. Of course, it turns out the Temple isn’t a run-down theme park attraction, but an actual Temple. Sadie and her two younger siblings have to run through the Temple, retrieve the pendant, and get out. And yes, they have to solve the Shrine of the Silver Monkey. 

The Nickelodeon movie was watched by 1.6 million viewers, and then, in 2021, The CW brought back the original game show, except now, it was for adults. Slapping in reality television style confessionals between the rounds helped pad out each episode to 60-minutes, but also wrecked the flow of the game show. To the shock of absolutely no one, it was cancelled after one season. 

Legend of the Hidden Temple only aired for 120 episodes over three seasons, but it was one of those shows that felt like it was on forever. The entire genre of cheap game shows made for kids has been overtaken now by YouTubers. It’s how MrBeast got so big in the first place. If kids today wanted to see why the mere mention of the Shrine of the Silver Monkey causes eye twitches in Millennials, they can catch the entire original run on Paramount+.

Ariana Grande and Ricky Alvarez are boyfriend and girlfriend once again, ten years after they broke it off.

Following a recent performance in New York City, the pop star ignited major internet speculation about rebounding with her ex after calling it quits with her former partner, Ethan Slater, just months ago.

However, close sources confirm it is more than a flirty reunion between the singer and Alvarez.

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After weeks of hanging out together, Grande and Alvarez are said to be now official. An insider confirmed the romantic update, saying the two are ready to try again after years apart.

The source explained that the lovebirds are, however, not rushing to make things serious, as they are focused on taking it slow.

The news, confirmed by TMZ, comes after Grande strongly hinted at a potential romantic reunion with Alvarez, after modifying the lyrics to her hit song during a high-profile concert stop in New York City. 

While taking the stage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Monday, the 33-year-old vocalist adjusted the phrasing of her 2018 record “Thank U, Next” to suggest a rekindled connection. In the original track, the lyrics read, “Wrote some songs about Ricky, now I listen and laugh.”

However, during her recent performance in front of a packed stadium, the singer boldly vocalized the updated phrase to sing, “Wrote some songs about Ricky, we always find our way back.” 

A video recording capturing the moment quickly went viral, showing the massive arena audience singing along to the verses honoring her high-profile ex-partners. The audience immediately erupted into deafening screams the moment she delivered the revised line about Alvarez.

Though the two individuals originally went their separate ways in 2016 after a year-long relationship, they have continuously maintained a highly supportive and close friendship.

Ariana Grande Was Recently Spotted With Ricky Alvarez 

Grande’s recent performance follows a highly publicized holiday sighting that initially sparked more conversations about her relationship status. 

The Blast reported that over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, onlookers spotted the singer and Alvarez spending quality time together during a casual outing.

They appeared relaxed and comfortable in each other’s presence as they completed a quick grocery run at a Whole Foods store. 

Grande opted for a comfortable wardrobe, wearing a simple grey sweater paired with denim pants and flat shoes, while her companion selected a classic white polo shirt and dark denim pants. According to reports, the long-time acquaintances were traveling together to Grande’s family’s private residence in Boca Raton to celebrate the holiday. 

Ariana Grande & Ethan Slater Broke Up Months Ago

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Before fueling dating speculation with her past flame, Grande quietly ended her high-profile relationship with her “Wicked” costar, Slater. 

At the time of their separation, close sources alleged that the romance had been highly turbulent for a long time. When rumors of a breakup began circulating in late 2025, those in the singer’s inner circle expressed doubts about the relationship’s longevity. 

According to The Blast, one source expressed skepticism about their relationship, saying, “If I had to look into my crystal ball, would I think they would stay together? No.”

The Singer Seems To Have A Recurring Romantic Trend

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While the sudden end of Grande’s relationship with Slater caught many onlookers off guard, those in the her closest circles viewed the development as part of a highly familiar cycle. 

Insiders claimed that the pop star’s romantic history reflects a very specific personal pattern that tends to repeat itself during major transitions in her career. According to individuals close to the situation, Grande has historically struggled to balance personal connections with the demands of her professional commitments.

“Ariana and relationships have always been a bit of a complicated mix. She tends to fall hard and fast, and when she does, it’s all-consuming,” a source revealed, as reported by The Blast.

However, despite the split with Slater, additional sources emphasized that the decision to part ways was mutual and friendly, with both individuals remaining highly supportive of each other’s future endeavors. 

Ariana Grande Allegedly Reached Out To Her Lookalike

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Amid navigating breakups, makeups, and her highly successful career, Grande has also had to navigate being idolized by fans online. This became evident in a recent interaction between Grande and her popular lookalike, Paige Niemann. 

Niemann, who rose to digital fame due to her uncanny physical resemblance to Grande, recently shared the contents of a private direct message she claims the singer sent her years ago. 

Rather than criticizing the young influencer’s viral videos, the Grammy-winning artist used the private note to encourage Niemann to find confidence in her natural appearance, per The Blast. 

The message from the singer read: “I am flattered and I am sure you’re very sweet. But I just wanted you to know, I looked back a little ways on your page, and I think someone should tell you, if they haven’t today that you’re very beautiful as YOURSELF.” 

The message continued by gently advising the influencer that she did not need to alter her features or style to find validation online, adding that she was gorgeous without “all the makeup.” 

The approval ratings for Meghan Markle‘s new gig seem to be starting on a low note!

The Duchess of Sussex is scheduled to make her debut on “MasterChef Australia” as an expert on food knowledge to help give the show a much-needed touch following her kitchen reputation.

Meghan Markle is not a stranger to making meals and sharing recipes, thanks to her Netflix lifestyle show “With Love, Meghan” where she discusses recipes and offers practical tips on homemaking, gardening and cooking with her celebrity pals.

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The mother-of-three has been unveiled to occupy the seat on Sunday, July 26, where she is promised to bring her love for “food, entertaining and seasonal produce” to what is promised to be one of the competition’s most challenging seasons.

While Meghan’s announcement as guest judge on the show may be proof of her prowess as the kitchen maestro, some Instagram users are not close to impressed about the development. A commenter wrote: “Thanks for reminding me not to watch.”

Another Instagram user expressed their relief that the show will not be aired in the United States, as one more commenter firmly declared that they will not be watching the show.

“Won’t watch,” “No Thanks” were the two accompanying comments to convey the thoughts of the show’s fans less interested in having Meghan pop up on their screens.

The Duchess Of Sussex Is Doing It All For The Love Of Australia

As shared on Paramount’s website, the Duchess is promised to set a challenge for the cooks to create memorable dishes which celebrate seasonal ingredients woven into personal stories.

The website acknowledged that Meghan had proven her expertise via her lifestyle show on Netflix and the launch of her best-selling lifestyle brand heavily inspired by cooking, entertaining and gift-giving.

Answering the question about what convinced her to join the team on “MasterChef Australia”, the mother-of-two declared: “Two things: my love of food and my love of Australia. It was an easy yes. It’s such a great show. I’m just really honored that I was asked to be able to be here with you and to be able to judge some of these meals.”

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The Netflix star will be joined by judges Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin and Jean-Christophe Novelli. Meghan will be bringing several elements of nostalgia from her personal collection of seasonal ingredients to the show.

What Meghan Markle Will Expect From Cooks On ‘MasterChef AU’

The Duchess of Sussex will be tasking the skilled hands in the kitchen with creating a dish fit for royalty and will contain ingredients like carrots, Jerusalem artichokes, Brussels sprouts, and celeriac.

The cooks will also infuse local Australian honey, macadamia nuts, quince, lemons, apples, mandarins, and strawberries into their dish alongside evoking personal stories about them.

Explaining her vision and mission further, Meghan stated: “I’d love it if there’s a connection that you can find when, as you’re cooking something, what is the story behind it?… What is something from your family or from a memory…something sentimental that we can also taste as we taste your dish.”

Meghan’s name will appear up there among famous faces in the cooking industry like Rick Stein, Curtis Stone and Maggie Beer, to food enthusiasts like Jimmy and Jane Barnes and Robert Irwin. Meghan will ultimately decide which of the cooks will move closer to the MasterChef Australia 2026 title next Sunday.

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The ‘As Ever’ Founder Was Haunted With Allegations Of Plagiarism Over Canceled 2022 Show

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Four years ago, Netflix released a statement that “Pearl”, a proposed animated series pushed by Meghan, had been canceled as part of their plan to cut back on producing animated projects.

As noted by PEOPLE, a British author, Mel Elliot, came forward last year with claims that Meghan may have lifted the idea of her project from her book series “Pearl Power.”

Elliot’s and Meghan’s story did carry central themes of female empowerment and equity. The former revealed that she had begun planning to turn her children’s book into an animated series as far back as 2018. 

Describing Meghan as a feminist who always sticks up for women, Elliot admitted that she was very disappointed to learn about a similar project from the Duchess’s stables. Elliot continued that someone on Meghan’s team could have come across the idea and pitched it to them, but her letters to seek clarification went unanswered.

The author was, however, pleased to learn that Netflix shelved Meghan’s idea, which would give her the chance to continue her project.

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Meghan Markle Tagged The Anomaly In The Monarchy She Married Into

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When the former actress sealed the deal with Prince Harry in 2018, it was a beautiful blend of different worlds with a promising future for the image of the monarchy. The Blast stated that as time progressed, it sadly became apparent that the “Suits” star was struggling to find her place among the royal family.

“Divide and Rule” author Catherine Mayer pointed out one of the biggest signs of Meghan’s hardships was the life she had built for herself before meeting Harry, which did not align with the traditional requirements of the monarchy.

The former actress had even declared after her engagement to Harry that nothing would change about her lifestyle. Meghan’s Californian background of public vulnerability, intense culture of being expressive, and pursuing ambition carried a sharp contrast to the lifestyle in Britain.

Altogether, Meghan’s inability to fulfill the requirements of the royal household while sticking to her true nature may have led to a face-off with the press and her eventual exit from the United Kingdom to California. 

For Meghan Markle, the show will carry on; will her performance change the minds of her critics?

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Long before social media turned celebrities into memes, Chuck Norris became the subject of one of the internet’s most enduring phenomena. The action star, martial artist, and “Walker, Texas Ranger” icon inspired thousands of “Chuck Norris Facts” jokes that portrayed him as an almost superhuman figure capable of impossible feats. While the jokes became a cultural sensation, Chuck Norris himself initially assumed the trend would be short-lived.

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The Blast attended a press conference hosted by Raising Cane’s in Cypress, Texas, where Chuck Norris’ widow, Gena O’Kelley, joined founder Todd Graves and the couple’s children, Danilee and Dakota Norris, to celebrate a new campaign benefiting Kickstart Kids ahead of National Chicken Finger Day on July 27.

During the event, O’Kelley opened up about how Norris first reacted to the viral jokes and revealed why he eventually came to appreciate the phenomenon that introduced him to an entirely new generation of fans. According to O’Kelley, the family first encountered the now-famous “Chuck Norris Facts” during the early days of the internet.

Like many people, Norris found the jokes amusing. But he never imagined they would become part of popular culture for decades. “When the Chuck Norris Facts first came out back in the early 2000s, he kind of laughed,” O’Kelley recalled.

She said one of the first jokes they encountered claimed that Mount Rushmore was too small to properly feature Norris. “The first one that we got was they wanted to put Chuck Norris on Mount Rushmore, but the granite wasn’t hard enough for his beard,” she said.

The joke made him laugh, but Norris remained convinced the trend would quickly disappear. “He goes, ‘Oh, those will be gone in about six months.’” Instead, the opposite happened.

The ‘Chuck Norris Facts’ Became A Global Phenomenon

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More than two decades later, the jokes continue to circulate online, making Norris one of the earliest celebrities to achieve true viral internet fame. The exaggerated one-liners transformed Norris from a beloved action star into a larger-than-life cultural icon whose name became synonymous with toughness, strength, and invincibility. At the press conference, Graves reflected on just how widespread the phenomenon became.

Sharing a story from a family vacation to Iceland, the Raising Cane’s founder recalled discovering Chuck Norris jokes in places he never expected. “We went to Iceland, and in Iceland they had Chuck Norris sayings,” Graves said, adding that some of his personal favorites included classics like, “Chuck Norris can count to infinity twice.”

For Graves, the jokes helped elevate Norris beyond traditional celebrity status. “Chuck became larger than life,” he said.

The Memes Helped Chuck Norris Reach Younger Generations

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While many celebrities may have grown tired of being turned into a punchline, O’Kelley said Norris ultimately recognized a deeper benefit. “The greatest blessing from it all is it’s reconnected him with all the young people around the world,” she explained, and as new generations discovered the jokes online, many were introduced to Norris for the first time. Some knew the memes before they knew his movies.

According to O’Kelley, that unexpected connection became one of the most meaningful aspects of the phenomenon. “All these new young generations that come up, they feel like they’ve discovered something that’s superhuman for the first time,” she said.

The jokes may have started as internet humor, but they ultimately helped preserve Norris’ relevance long after many of his most famous films and television appearances had aired.

Chuck Norris Embraced The Joke

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Part of what kept the phenomenon alive was Norris’ willingness to laugh along with everyone else. Rather than distancing himself from the jokes, he embraced them. “Chuck had a great sense of humor,” Graves said. “So he embraced it, and that made it even better.”

O’Kelley recalled that Norris even incorporated the jokes into his own work, sharing one of his favorite examples involving a cobra. “When the cobra bit Chuck Norris, after five days of agonizing pain, the cobra died,” she said, laughing.

Rather than taking himself too seriously, Norris understood that the jokes were rooted in admiration for the image he had spent decades building through martial arts, film, and television.

The Legacy Lives On Beyond The Memes

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Although Norris died in 2026 at age 86, his family says the larger-than-life persona created by the “Chuck Norris Facts” continues to introduce people to his story. For O’Kelley, however, the most important part of his legacy isn’t the jokes themselves but what they ultimately led people to discover.

Beyond the punchlines was a man dedicated to faith, family, service, and helping young people through Kickstart Kids, the youth development organization he founded more than three decades ago.

The viral memes may have portrayed Norris as indestructible, but according to those closest to him, their greatest impact was connecting millions of people to the values he spent his life promoting. And more than 20 years after he predicted the jokes would disappear, the legend of Chuck Norris shows no signs of fading away.

Catherine Paiz and Austin McBroom have truly overcome a lot after going through a rocky divorce following nearly seven years of marriage. From public disagreements to YouTube tell-alls after their split, the pair continued prioritizing co-parenting their three children, Elle, Alaïa, and Steel. That bond naturally extended into Catherine’s new chapter with her husband, Igor Ten, as they embraced this new season together.

As Catherine celebrated the arrival of her baby girl, she and Igor officially welcomed their first child together, bringing their household to four children. Austin also stepped in to congratulate the couple, continuing to show support.

RELATED: Congratulations! Catherine Paiz And Igor Ten Announce Pregnancy After Tying The Knot In September (VIDEO)

Catherine Paiz & Igor Ten Welcome Their Bundle Of Joy Following Home Birth

Over the weekend, Catherine Paiz and her husband, Igor Ten, took to social media to share a glimpse of their baby girl’s arrival, including footage of their outdoor water birth beneath the stars.

In the caption, Catherine reflected on the emotional experience, writing, “Laboured under the open sky in my garden. Three hours of surrendering, trusting, and giving my body fully to the most powerful experience of my life. The hardest thing I’ve ever done, and somehow the most beautiful.”

Igor also shared his perspective, writing, “There are moments that divide life into a before and an after. Witnessing labor, experiencing the power of nature, feeling every breath, and finally holding my baby for the first time… there are no words that can truly describe it. It was intense, transformative, and sacred. A moment I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”

As family, friends, and fans filled the comments with congratulatory messages, Catherine’s ex-husband, Austin McBroom, also shared his support. He commented, “Congratulations to you both. The kids are blessed to have another sibling.”

Catherine Paiz & Igor Ten Officially Reveal The Gender And Name Of Their Baby Girl

Throughout Catherine’s pregnancy, she and her husband chose to keep their baby’s gender a surprise. So, on Saturday, the couple officially revealed that they welcomed a baby girl named Sea’Vanna. Alongside more heartfelt moments from the home birth, Catherine wrote, “We waited nine months for this surprise! My husband was the first to meet our baby and tell me, ‘It’s a girl.’ Sea’Vanna. Born on July 8, 2026.” Igor also shared a touching message of his own, writing, “Welcome to the world, my little princess. Sea’Vanna. July 8, 2026.”

Social Media Sends Congratulations

Many flooded the couple’s comment section to congratulate Catherine and Igor on their newest addition. Others also reacted to Austin McBroom’s supportive comment.

Instagram user @shaye.milian wrote. “A beautiful representation of growth 🩷 congratulations to her on her new bundle of joy 😇 “

Instagram user @swaggerjaggermya added, “And that’s how you move on from a fck nikka name Austin, fall in love again, remarried & have beautiful children!!!! ❤️ 🔥🙌🏾”2

While Instagram user @kangelica added, “His love for her has to be studied. I love Igor. Much blessing to them.”

Instagram user @katyemajamane wrote, “austinnn plssss 🤣🤣🤣🤦🏾‍♂️”

Instagram user @justqaad added. “austin hate ts 🤣🤣🤣”

While Instagram user @goldiiglockss wrote, “bruh leave Austin alone, congrats to them ❤️ “

Instagram user @hollywood_sadity wrote, “Anything Austin 😂 say would be considered shade even if it’s genuine”

Instagram user @kendraandthecity added. “Why the negative comments lol? They both moved on and clearly can wish the best for each other. It’s a win.”

While Instagram user @aliyalz_ wrote, “I love when woman with kids move on and find happiness. The internet will have you believe that you can’t find love after having kids.”

Instagram user @_maame_ wrote, “It’s the first letter of the other three children S. E. A then they added the vanna part. I love it”

Igor Ten Reflects On Blended Family & Healthy Co-Parenting

Back in June, Igor Ten, who is known for his tattoo work, gave Austin McBroom a special Destiny tattoo on his back. Reflecting on the experience, Igor said it reminded him that maturity, respect, and healthy co-parenting are essential for blended families to thrive. He added that putting the children first and setting aside ego helps create a loving environment that benefits future generations together.

Later that month, the blended family came together to celebrate Father’s Day, marking Igor’s very first Father’s Day as an expectant dad. Reflecting on the milestone, Igor said fatherhood is about love, presence, and showing up every day while putting children above everything.

He also praised  Austin McBroom for choosing respect over ego and thanked Catherine, the kids, Austin, and their growing family. Austin later returned the love by commenting, “Happy Father’s Day, my man.”

  RELATED: Did Too Much? Austin McBroom Explains Why He Got Uninvited To His Ex Catherine Paiz’s Wedding (VIDEO)