Unearthing Roman Mysteries: The Remarkable Discovery of a 750kg Coffin Beneath Cambridgeshire’s Modern Roadworks

A serendipitous discovery has brought to light a slice of ancient history, hidden beneath the rolling landscapes of Cambridgeshire. Amid the hustle and bustle of modern development, where engineers and planners work tirelessly to pave way for the new A47 dual carriageway, a team of archaeologists from Headland Archaeology struck historical gold — a hand-carved coffin from the distant echoes of Roman Britain.

Weighing an impressive 750kg, akin to the heft of a full-grown polar bear — not something one casually stumbles upon in a day’s work — this coffin has emerged from the depths of time. It was unearthed between Wansford and Sutton, an area traversed by what once was a key Roman road, linking various hubs across the historical landscape of Britain.

The current task, roadworks for infrastructural advancement, inadvertently led the excavating team to what they now believe is a Roman cemetery. The narrative of this coffin, as it sits silently, holds whispers of an era long past, echoes that the archaeological world is eager to unveil. What stories might it tell? What secrets of Roman life lay sealed within the wood, now aged and steeped in history?

One might think that amidst the chaos of modern construction, the chance of discovering ancient relics decreases, but it’s quite the contrary. As the ground is churned and shifted for progress, it simultaneously offers glimpses of what once was — a reminder that while we forge ahead, our roots run deep and intertwined through the sands of time.

Each artifact unearthed offers potential insight, not just into the daily workings of Roman life — but into the cultural intersections, the societal structures, and the artistry of an empire that laid foundational stones for the world as we know it today. The significance of this coffin, heavy with antiquity, far exceeds its physical mass. It is a key, perhaps to unlocking narratives that have been buried beneath eons of silence and soil.

Discovery like this fuels the imagination, igniting a rich tapestry of speculation about who was laid to rest within this cavernous timber. Was it someone of importance, a figure of stature, perhaps? Or maybe a craftsman, whose bones rest amongst the roads they might have once tread upon? Until further analysis and revelations unspool, one can only wonder — but wonder we will, as the past offers up its secrets one stone, one relic at a time.

Budget-Friendly Decor: Unleashing Chic Style Beyond Ikea and Wayfair

In an era where financial prudence has become the mantra of many households, the quest for budget-friendly choices in modern furniture and decor is escalating. Yet, navigating this landscape requires finesse and a discerning eye for both quality and price. While household names such as Ikea, Target, and Wayfair often dominate the starting lines for cost-conscious buyers, there’s an expansive world beyond these giants that promises chic aesthetics without breaking the bank.

The spectrum of modern design—whether it be the iconic lines of mid-century modern, the serene simplicity of Scandinavian style, or something more eclectic—offers an array of choices that can both enchant and overwhelm. To strike gold, savvy shoppers should cast their nets wider, venturing beyond conventional retail boundaries. From local resellers to digital treasure troves, there’s potential to upend the traditional retail paradigm.

Consider the thrill of the hunt at thrift stores, consignment shops, and estate sales—each venue a potential goldmine flush with unique finds from bygone eras. Here, negotiation is not just an option but a strategy, allowing astute buyers to secure mid-century gems for a song. Even the “for sale” sections of digital platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, and Craigslist can yield gently used finds from modern decor stalwarts such as West Elm or CB2.

Proximity to a university can also be serendipitous. Surplus centers linked to educational institutions often liquidate high-quality furniture—desks, tables, seating—for a fraction of their original cost, transforming functional necessity into a style statement. For those preferring streamlined shopping, online marketplaces like AptDeco offer a curated experience, sorting their modern pieces by style and price. Noteworthy is the Jonathan Adler Ether apartment sofa—once priced at a steep premium, now accessible at a remarkable 55% discount.

While many online retailers populate the modern furnishing space, a word of caution: sleek lines often command a premium. Shipping and return policies can further inflate costs, so factoring these into your budget can mitigate buyer’s remorse. Apt 2B stands out by offering customizable sectionals tailored to both space and taste, saving customers the logistical nightmare of returning bulky items. Its dining room bundles are particularly appealing, with offerings like the Ralston bundle—an encompassing set of table and chairs at a digestible price point.

Nathan James and Living Spaces present yet more avenues for smart shopping. Nathan James eschews shipping costs altogether, presenting its natural-wood furniture pieces at competitive prices. Living Spaces, while typically charging a flat shipping fee that includes assembly, boasts a price-matching policy that subtracts an additional 10%—a boon for the eagle-eyed consumer. The brand’s offerings range from the Eames-inspired Amala leather chair to playful finds like the sea green rope-and-steel papasan lounge chair.

AllModern, a sibling to Wayfair, caters to those with a penchant for vintage-inspired decor. From Linea’s color-blocked throws to Marimekko’s bold duvet covers, their inventory champions affordability without sacrificing style. Meanwhile, online outlets like Amazon Outlet and Bed Bath & Beyond offer overstock items—think discounted rugs and curtains—alongside the added lure of coupons and flexible shipping options typically absent from garage sales.

Unique offerings abound at smaller retailers such as Bob’s Discount Furniture, where a search for “mid-century” unfurls a panorama of budget-friendly, stylish furniture designed for even the most compact of living spaces. Bargain Hunt and Falling Prices further bolster the bargain battleground by rescuing unsold Target wares and offering them at reduced rates, while Ikea’s “as-is” and “secondhand corner” provide a haven for those unperturbed by minor blemishes in pursuit of modern simplicity.

In a marketplace teeming with choices, the path to modern aesthetic nirvana is paved with patience and strategy. Whether the goal is to invoke nostalgia or embrace contemporary elegance, it’s possible to furnish a space that reflects personal style—without a financial hangover.

Miley Cyrus: From Malibu Ruins to a Beacon of Hope Amidst Los Angeles Fires

Miley Cyrus, a name synonymous with resilience and reinvention, once again opened up about the tragic loss of her Malibu home to the 2018 Woolsey Fire. With the ongoing fires ravaging Los Angeles—destructive forces with an eerie resemblance to those that claimed her haven six years prior—Cyrus’s reflections resonate more profoundly than ever. Through her social media, she shared a poignant image of what was once her sanctuary—a charred, skeletal figure, stripped of its former glory, a painful relic that now serves as a stark reminder of nature’s unyielding wrath.

Expressing her empathy for current victims, Cyrus’s message was as raw and heartfelt as the wounds these fires inflict. “It’s a feeling you don’t ever forget,” she confessed, her words laced with an understanding that only those who’ve walked through the ashes can truly grasp. Her soul, aching for those now standing before the same devastation, turns a personal tragedy into a universal lament—a call for solidarity amidst disaster.

“Los Angeles represents ‘living the dream,’” she wrote, acknowledging the bifurcation between glittering ambition and the tangible wreckage these infernos leave behind. Yet, even in heartache, Cyrus extends hope. She generously shared links to organizations aiding fire victims—the act of someone who understands the precarious balance of loss and recovery.

Among these stories of survival and sorrow, the narratives of others who’ve faced similar ruin interweave. Celebrity acquaintances like Miles Teller, Mel Gibson, and Paris Hilton stand in solidarity, their homes too now reduced to memories. It’s a somber fraternity, united not by choice but by circumstance—a testament to nature’s impartiality and the shared human experience of rebuilding from ruins.

Turning the spotlight from personal to communal, Cyrus’s actions speak louder than her words. Six years ago, she helped launch the Malibu Foundation, a beacon of hope and assistance for those left in fire’s wake. Prioritizing the most vulnerable—low-income families, seniors, the uninsured—this initiative underscores a crucial truth: community healing requires both time and unwavering dedication from all fronts.

Elsewhere, the struggle continues. The Palisades Fire, alone, has claimed over 5,300 structures, a sobering figure that includes homes, churches, and schools. The Eaton Fire and others add to this tally of destruction. Yet, within these statistics lies a glimmer of resistance as more than 100,000 remain under evacuation orders—the relentless efforts of firefighters and volunteers persist, a testament to human resilience against the elements.

Stepping away from the embers of Malibu, Cyrus also reminisced on the life-changing magic of her once-home, a place where professional beginnings melded with personal milestones. It’s this interplay of ephemeral structures and enduring love that Cyrus emphasizes—”You can always rebuild a physical structure,” she muses, “but that love that can’t be destroyed, it’s always there.”

As the fires rage on, the narratives of the affected continue to unfold, with new chapters of resilience and restitution being written each day. Within the smoke and ashes, a city finds not just devastation but also the enduring spirit of a community bound by challenge and the unwavering hope of rebuilding stronger.

Harry Kane’s Penalty Precision Secures Bayern’s Lead; Rita Simons Finds New Love in Engagement

In the world of sports and entertainment, two notable events have captured the attention of fans and observers alike—Harry Kane’s decisive penalty in the Bundesliga, and Rita Simons’ engagement announcement. Both occurrences, while divergent in nature, offer a glimpse into the dedication and transformations that punctuate the lives of public figures.

On a chilly afternoon in Moenchengladbach, Germany, Bayern Munich resumed their Bundesliga campaign with a tight 1-0 victory over Borussia Moenchengladbach, thanks to the unerring composure of Harry Kane. The England captain, known for his clinical prowess, netted a penalty in the 68th minute to secure the win for Bayern, keeping them a comfortable four points clear atop the league standings. With 15 league goals to his name this season, Kane is a talismanic figure, embodying the poise and precision that are hallmarks of a champion.

Bayern’s dominance was evident from the outset, controlling a staggering 70% possession during the first half. Despite several near-misses from Thomas Mueller and Leon Goretzka, it was Kane’s strike—deftly sending Gladbach’s keeper the wrong way—that ultimately broke the deadlock. The second half offered brief hope for Gladbach when Tim Kleindienst’s header narrowly missed the target, but the Bavarians’ defense, led by the returning Manuel Neuer, proved impenetrable.

Meanwhile, in the realm of British television and tabloid sensationalism, Rita Simons has found a new chapter of happiness. The “EastEnders” actress, who rose to fame as the fiery Roxy Mitchell, is reportedly engaged to her partner, Ben Harlow. The news, shared by a close friend, marks a heartwarming turn in Simons’ personal life after her previous marriage ended in 2018. “Rita and Ben have been together for a while now and they’re blissfully happy,” the friend revealed, adding that the engagement was a natural step for the couple who met while working on “Legally Blonde: The Musical.”

Simons, a stalwart of the soap opera world, has transitioned seamlessly into various roles, including a stint on “Hollyoaks” and a foray into reality television. Her journey is a testament to resilience and reinvention—qualities shared by many public figures who navigate the twists and turns of fame with grace and grit.

These stories illustrate the multifaceted lives of individuals who captivate the public’s imagination—whether on the football field or the stage. Harry Kane continues to inspire with his athletic excellence, while Rita Simons reminds us that love and happiness can flourish anew, no matter the past. In the end, both offer a narrative of triumph in their respective arenas, enriching the tapestry of contemporary culture.

Bayern’s Harry Kane Strikes Precision Penalty While Borussia Gladbach Wonders What Happened—Rita Simons Finds Love’s Spotlight Off the Pitch

In an electrifying display of skill and strategy, Bayern Munich managed to secure a pivotal win against Borussia Moenchengladbach, sending their fans into a fervor of celebration. This wasn’t just any victory; it was a masterclass led by none other than the Bundesliga’s top scorer, Harry Kane. His penalty in the 68th minute was executed with such precision that Gladbach’s keeper, Moritz Nicolas, found himself utterly bamboozled—left diving in the opposite direction.

Bayern’s dominance was evident from the get-go. With a staggering 70% possession in the first half, they orchestrated the game with the finesse of a maestro leading an orchestra. Yet, converting possession into goals proved to be an elusive art. Thomas Mueller and Leon Goretzka came tantalizingly close, like arrows that narrowly missed their mark. The Bavarians were relentless, creating an onslaught of chances post-Kane’s penalty, but somehow, the net continued to elude them—thanks partly to the formidable defense presented by Vincent Kompany’s squad.

Gladbach, on the other hand, assumed the role of a reticent participant in the drama that unfolded—content to absorb pressure, they hardly made Manuel Neuer flex a muscle during the entire first half. But as the second half dawned, a spark of hope flickered ever so briefly when Tim Kleindienst, with a near-miss header, momentarily threatened to shift the momentum.

And while the win kept Bayern comfortable at the summit on 39 points, the narrative of missed opportunities hung in the air like an unfinished symphony for Kompany’s men—they’ll surely be reflecting on what could have been, as they slipped to tenth in the rankings. Meanwhile, over in the land of soap operas and scandals, another intriguing tale took a turn.

EastEnders’ very own Rita Simons, known for her portrayal of the fiery Roxy Mitchell, is set to embark on a new chapter, as she plans to tie the knot with her partner, Ben Harlow. Sources close to the starlet whisper of a sweet, secret engagement—a blossoming union cultivated through the shared art of theatrical performance. “Getting engaged is the natural step,” a confidant shared, capturing the essence of their journey from co-stars to companions for life.

Rita’s personal story of finding happiness after heartbreak mirrors the undercurrent of hope running through our everyday narratives. Her evolution—both personally and professionally—speaks volumes about the resilience and transformative power of love. It’s a poignant reminder that while plot twists and headline moments may captivate, it’s the ongoing saga of personal fulfillment that ultimately steals the show.

Furnishing Your Home with Elegance and Economy: A Guide to Modern Style Without the Splurge

In today’s ever-evolving landscape of modern conveniences and economic mindfulness, finding the right balance between style and affordability can seem akin to navigating a complex puzzle. Yet, as many have found, the quest for the ideal modern furniture doesn’t have to lead to financial despair. From Ikea to Amazon Outlet, there are myriad ways to furnish your home in a stylish yet budget-friendly manner.

Ikea, Target, and Wayfair often top the list for those embarking on a journey to furnish their homes with mid-century modern flair without breaking the bank. However, the savviest shoppers are those who broaden their horizons beyond these well-trodden paths. Blending different flavors of modern design—be it Scandinavian simplicity or the elegant minimalism of mid-century modern—can often reveal unexpected treasures that strike the perfect balance between price and quality.

Comparison shopping is the holy grail for bargain hunters. Seasonal sales, clearance sections, and loyalty programs are not just industry jargon—they are the keys to unlocking substantial savings. Local resellers, too, offer a wealth of opportunities. By adopting a treasure-hunt mentality, you can unearth gems in thrift stores, consignment shops, and estate sales, all teeming with items from yesteryears at a fraction of their original cost. As one explores these avenues, often the thrill of negotiation plays a part, especially in flea markets and garage sales.

Yet, the frugal journey does not have to be confined to physical spaces. Online platforms have revolutionized the way we shop, offering convenience and variety. AptDeco, a second-hand furniture marketplace, is an example of a digital treasure trove where stylish finds are available at significant discounts. The site allows you to filter products by style and color, making it easier to locate the perfect piece to complement your decor.

University surplus centers are another under-the-radar resource that often goes unexplored. They frequently liquidate office furnishings, offering mid-century desks and seating at unbeatable prices. Similarly, online storefronts can streamline the shopping experience by allowing users to sort items by style and price, ensuring you find exactly what fits both your taste and space—and possibly your wallet.

For those who prefer a more structured shopping experience, several modern furniture retailers provide services that simplify the decision-making process. Apt 2B, for instance, allows you to customize sectionals to fit your space, offering the added benefit of free shipping. Their dining room bundles pack a punch in value, offering a large table and chairs for under $1,650—a steal by any measure.

Moreover, Nathan James offers free shipping site-wide, with a vast array of products that celebrate the natural beauty of wood. From arched TV console credenzas to fluted three-drawer dressers, their offerings are as diverse as they are elegant.

Sister sites like AllModern present a plethora of choices for the modern aesthete, ranging from vintage-inspired pieces to bold, graphic decor items. In contrast, Amazon Outlet and Bed Bath & Beyond offer overstocked items at deeply discounted rates, perfect for those who appreciate the art of a good deal.

Store giants such as Target and Ikea still retain their allure for many. Their liquidation chains, like Bargain Hunt, offer an array of unsold merchandise, albeit at marked-down prices. Whether it’s through physical bargain hunting or digital sleuthing, the ultimate goal remains the same—furnishing a home with modern elegance without the hefty price tag.

The market for modern furniture is vast and varied, but with a thoughtful approach and resourceful spirit, your dream home need not remain a distant aspiration. By exploring diverse shopping avenues and embracing the thrill of the hunt, you can make your living spaces reflect the beauty of modern design—without the corresponding financial burden.

Bavarian Brilliance: Kane’s Penalty Powers Bayern Over Gladbach as Bundesliga Resumes

Amidst the chilly breezes sweeping across the historic landscapes of Moenchengladbach, a gladiatorial clash unfolded as Bayern Munich locked horns with Borussia Moenchengladbach. The Bundesliga’s resumption post-winter break was prefaced with tales of expectation and ambition—both sides eager to reestablish their standings following the seasonal interlude.

In the 68th minute, the spotlight found its constant claimant—Harry Kane. The British marksmanship of renowned precision, residing in the boots of England’s captain, executed its unfailing task yet again. A penalty, given with the sternness that only a defender’s lapse can authorize, was calmly converted by Kane, sending goalkeeper Moritz Nicolas the wrong way with effortless aplomb. Kane’s 15th league goal wasn’t just another number; it was a declarative strike, affirming Bayern Munich’s four-point lead over their closest adversaries, Bayer Leverkusen.

Wielding control like a wizard with his wand, Bayern’s dominance on the pitch was undebatable. With 70% possession, they orchestrated the game’s rhythm like a maestro leading a symphony. Thomas Mueller and Leon Goretzka posed persistent threats, coming close but not close enough to unsettle the score. The Bavarians, it seemed, were biding their time, content to probe patiently until the moment was ripe—Kane’s penalty was the fruit of such laborious persistence.

Yet, for all their possession, it wasn’t until the fateful foul on Michael Olise in the penalty box that the scales tipped irreversibly in Bayern’s favor. The match, predominantly a narrative of Bayern’s strategic control, saw an occasional flicker of Gladbach’s resistance. Tim Kleindienst endeavored post-interval with a near miss—his header precariously glancing over the crossbar, momentarily unsettling Neuer, who enjoyed a largely unchallenged return from injury.

Vincent Kompany, guiding his Gladbach squad with measured composure, watched as opportunities to salvage parity slipped by; neither Alphonso Davies nor Serge Gnabry, despite their athletic prowess, could outmaneuver Nicolas when it mattered most.

As the final whistle echoed through the stadium, Gladbach found themselves reassessing their strategy—dropping to 10th place and grappling with the unfamiliar sting of a goalless home game. Meanwhile, the Bavarians, with an eye on the crown, etched another chapter in their storied legacy, maintaining their unyielding quest for supremacy.

With an altogether different tale of personal triumph, Rita Simons of EastEnders fame—the spirited actress once known for her fiery portrayal of Roxy Mitchell—celebrated an engagement far from the dramatics of her soap opera past. Rita, having weathered the storm of a previous marriage dissolve, now rejoices in newfound happiness with partner Ben Harlow.

The couple’s journey from colleagues in the musical ‘Legally Blonde’ to soon-to-be-married partners reads like a romance penned for the screen. A friend of the couple remarked, “Getting engaged is the natural step for them to take. They’re both so excited.” With this engagement, Simons embraces a chapter brimming with promise and contentment.

Her story illuminates the resilience found in new beginnings—casting aside the shadows of heartbreak to step into brighter horizons. In Simons’ own words, “We were mates and then a couple of years later he asked me out on a date and we’ve been together ever since.” From the bustling pitches of Bundesliga action to the intimate corridors of personal life, each tale unfolds with its own distinct cadence, united by the human spirit’s relentless pursuit of joy.

Love in Hollywood: Tom and Zendaya’s Tasty Romance Amidst Tech Anxiety

Amid the whirlwind of Hollywood engagements and unexpected technological revelations, two stories have emerged—each both endearing and thought-provoking in its own right. On one hand, the blossoming romance between Tom Holland and Zendaya brings warmth to many a heart, while on the other, concerns over privacy with smart devices inject a dose of paranoia into the modern digital landscape.,Tom Holland, the charming Spider-Man star, has captured the attention of fans, not just for his on-screen feats but his off-screen love story with Zendaya. In a candid Instagram video, Holland paid a sweet homage to Zendaya’s beloved Miniature Schnauzer, Noon. The dog, described by Holland as “really fruity” and “super tasty,” inspired the Noon Wheat—a non-alcoholic beverage from Holland’s Bero brand, now available at Target. This endearing revelation came with a humorous twist, as Zendaya had previously jested that Noon favored Holland over her. With Holland’s declaration of love—both personal and professional, etched in the themes of his latest venture—it seems the couple is celebrating more than just a business triumph.,And what of their engagement? This cherished Hollywood duo, who bonded over their shared journey in the entertainment industry, was seen sporting matching tattoos—each other’s initials discreetly placed on their bodies, a testament to their close bond. The engagement, although blossoming under the glow of public scrutiny, appears to be anything but rushed. A source revealed, “[They] will just enjoy things for now and won’t rush a wedding,” suggesting a deliberate savoring of this significant life chapter.,In striking contrast to this tale of love and celebration, the digital realm presents a stark narrative—the unsettling notion that your kitchen appliance might double as an uninvited surveillance device. The air fryer, a staple in many modern kitchens, is at the heart of this debate. As tech journalist Kim Komando and co-host Andrew Babinski discuss, “once you connect it to your phone, you give it permission to access everything.” This includes the disconcerting ability to record and transmit audio, as verified by a report from the UK-based watchdog, Which?.,The report found that specific air fryer brands—Xiaomi, Cosori, and Aigostar—requested permissions that seemed excessive, prompting questions about the data being sent to servers in China. Aigostar’s app for iPhone reportedly collects fewer data points than its Android counterpart, yet concerns remain about the potential misuse of personal information. Reassurances offered in privacy notices and terms and conditions do little to quell consumer anxieties over privacy breaches thinly veiled behind complicated legal jargon.,This juxtaposition—a tender love story set against the backdrop of a potentially invasive technological reality—mirrors the duality of our contemporary lives. As we celebrate the joyous milestones of beloved Hollywood stars like Holland and Zendaya, we must also be vigilant, always questioning the technology that pervades our personal spaces, ensuring that our quest for convenience does not come at the expense of our privacy.

Leslie Charleson, ‘General Hospital’ Icon Known as Monica Quartermaine, Dies at 79

Leslie Charleson, ‘General Hospital’ Icon Known as Monica Quartermaine, Dies at 79

Rosemary Rossi

January 13, 2025 at 12:26 AM

Soap Opera icon, Leslie Charleson, known as Monica Quartermaine on “General Hospital,” died Sunday morning after a long illness. She was 79.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson,” “General Hospital” executive producer Frank Valentini announced. “Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years on ‘General Hospital’ alone and, just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaines, Leslie was a beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew. I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit and incredible presence on set. On behalf of everyone at ‘General Hospital,’ my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time.”

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The beloved actress who joined the soap in 1977, has had some health ups and downs over the past few years, which has limited her time on the ABC soap, where she hasn’t appeared since December 2023. In recent years, she has suffered several falls that prevented her from getting around. Although it impeded her mobility and resulted in her need for a walker, it never got her spirit down. She was hospitalized last week after one such fall.

The Kansas City native began her long career on daytime television in 1964 when she was just 19 in the short-lived ABC soap opera “A Flame in the Wind.” A few years later she began a 3-year-run on CBS’s “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing,” where she played Iris Donnelly Garrison, who was in a popular love triangle with characters played by Donna Mills and David Birney. In 1970s, she guest starred on many of the best known shows of the time, including “The Rockford Files,” “The Wild West,” “The Streets of San Francisco,” “Marcus Welby, M.D.,” “Mannix,” “Ironside” and “Happy Days,” where she played divorcée Dorothy Kimber and was the first on-screen kiss for actor-director Ron Howard (who played Richie). In 1973, she starred opposite Shelley Winters in the film “The Day of the Dolphin.” She fell in love with the aquatic mammal and collected dolphins for the rest of her life.

In later years, she guested on “Dharma & Greg,” “Diagnosis: Murder,” “Friends” and starred alongside fellow soap stars Deidre Hall (“Days of Our Lives”) and Colleen Zenk (“As the World Turns”) in the 1993 made-for-television movie “Woman on the Ledge.”

Although her primetime time appearances were plentiful, she returned to the world of soap operas in 1977, when she was hired to replace Patsy Rahn as Monica Bard on “General Hospital.” Charleson used to joke that she wasn’t received with open arms by many of the cast and crew, who were upset that her predecessor was given the heave-ho. However, her humor quickly won them over.

During her 40-plus years on “GH,” Charleson’s Monica was part of one of daytime’s biggest and most popular love triangles (Rick/Monica/Alan), has given audiences doses of both comedy (she had a thing for slapping people and was as a member of the super-wealthy, perennially quarrelsome and dysfunctional Quartermaine family) and drama (including surviving breast cancer and the loss of three children), and has been shot and held at gunpoint more than once. Along the way, she earned four Daytime Emmy nominations for outstanding lead actress.

After 30 years on “GH,” she was taken off contract and reduced to recurring status in 2010, for which her fans and fans of the show protested. In 2017, Charleson tripped while walking her dog and injured her leg, causing her to be replaced for two months on the show by one-time child star Patty McCormack while she recovered. Several years later, she suffered another fall and was once again recast for a single day. Last October, it was announced that it was unlikely she would return. Monica, however, continues to be mentioned in storyline when the Quartermaines are gathered, referring to her as being upstairs in their mansion.

I personally knew Leslie. Very well, in fact. She was a very good friend to me. No one was more kind, fun-loving, loyal and generous. I remember times at her beautiful house, when she’d let her turtle wander in her luscious backyard and it would disappear into the bushes; when we’d sit in the kitchen nook and gossip; when I would tease her about her love of Elvis Presley and the Eagles. She was a good laugher, she was. It was deep and seemed to work its way up from her feet. And the things she loved most: her horse and “General Hospital.” She loved the show and being a part of its legacy. And the fans, she loved them with her whole heart. I hope she knows how much she was loved back… and how much she will be missed.

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‘Den of Thieves 2’ opens at No. 1 as ‘Better Man’ flops

NEW YORK (AP) — On a quiet weekend in movie theaters, while much of Hollywood’s attention was on the wildfires that continue to rage in Los Angeles, Lionsgate’s “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera” debuted atop the box office with $15.5 million, according to studio estimates Sunday.

Mid-January is often a slow moviegoing period, and that was slightly exacerbated by the closures of about 10 theaters in Los Angeles, the country’s top box-office market.

A sequel to the Gerard Butler 2018 heist thriller, “Den of Thieves 2” performed similarly to the original. The first installment, released by STX, opened with $15.2 million seven years ago. O’Shea Jackson Jr. co-stars in the sequel, which debuted in 3,008 North American theaters.

Butler’s films are becoming something of a regular feature in January. He also starred in “Plane,” which managed $32.1 million after launching on Jan. 13 in 2023.

“Den of Thieves 2,” made for about $40 million, was a bit more costly to make. Audiences liked it well enough, giving it a “B+” CinemaScore. Reviews (58% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) weren’t particularly good. But it counted as Lionsgate’s first No.1 opening since “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” in November 2023.

Also entering wide release over the weekend was the Robbie Williams movie “Better Man,” one of the more audacious spins on the music biopic in recent years. Rather than going the more tradition routes of Elton John (“Rocketman”) or Elvis Presley (“Elvis”), the British popstar is portrayed by a CGI chimpanzee in Michael Gracey’s film.

The Paramount Pictures release, produced for $110 million and acquired by Paramount for $25 million, didn’t catch on much better than Williams’ previous forays into the United States. It tanked, with $1.1 million in ticket sales from 1,291 locations. Gracey’s previous feature, 2017’s “The Greatest Showman” ($459 million worldwide), fared far better in theaters. Reviews, however, have been very good for “Better Man.”

It was bested by “The Last Showgirl,” the Las Vegas drama starring Pamela Anderson. The Roadside Attractions release expanded to 870 theaters and collected $1.5 million.

Also outdoing “Better Man” was Brady Corbet’s “The Brutalist.” Coming off winning best drama at the Golden Globes, the A24 postwar epic grossed a hefty $1.4 million from just 68 locations. It expands wider in the coming weeks.

The weekend’s lion share of business went to holiday holdovers, including “Mufasa: The Lion King,” “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” “Nosferatu” and “Moana 2.”

In its fourth week of release, Barry Jenkins “Mufasa” continued to do well, adding $13.2 million to bring its total to $539.7 million worldwide. Also on its fourth weekend, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” padded its $384.8 million global total with $11 million. Robert Eggers’ “Nosferatu,” the surprise hit of the Christmas period, collected $6.8 million in ticket sales, bringing the vampire tale to $81.1 million domestically.

The Walt Disney Co.’s “Moana 2,” in its seventh week of release, added $6.5 million to bring its global tally to $989.8 million. In the coming days, it will become the third Disney film released in 2024 to notch $1 billion, joining “Inside Out 2” and “Deadpool and Wolverine.”

Final domestic figures will be released Monday. Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore:

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