Nikki Glaser’s $100K Devotion to Taylor Swift: A Comedy Star’s Unapologetic Fandom Shines at the Golden Globes

In the glitzy world of Hollywood, few moments can rival the thrill of hosting the Golden Globe Awards—except perhaps when your idol, Taylor Swift, is in the audience. For comedian Nikki Glaser, a self-proclaimed mega-Swiftie, that scenario was at the forefront of her mind after fulfilling her hosting duties at the January 2025 ceremony. When a fan cheekily suggested on social media that Glaser might be “pissed” about not having Swift present to witness her shine, the comedian didn’t hold back, responding with a candid, “Oh you know I was!” Clearly, the absence of Swift cast a slight shadow over what was otherwise Glaser’s moment to dazzle on that illustrious stage.

Swift, a frequent nominee at the Golden Globes with five nods under her belt, had made her last appearance at the event in 2024. At that time, she was there to support her Eras Tour film, which rightfully earned accolades for its cinematic and box office achievements. The buzz around Swift is palpable; she embodies a cultural phenomenon that’s impossible to ignore. For Glaser, the disappointment of not sharing the spotlight with the pop icon was tangible. There’s something uniquely electrifying about the connection between fans and their idols, and Glaser’s emotions resonate with anyone who’s ever missed a chance to be near their hero.

Amidst the whirlwind of red carpets and award speeches, Glaser has been vocal about her undeniable love for Swift, even going as far as dishing out close to $100,000 to attend an astonishing 22 Eras Tour shows. “I want to be clear that we’re including travel expenses, hotels, and me also flying and putting up everyone that I would invite to go with me, plus tickets, plus merch,” she clarified in an interview with PEOPLE. It’s a staggering investment, yet to Glaser, it’s all part of a cherished experience. “All well worth it,” she insists, exuding a passion that many fans can relate to—after all, who wouldn’t go to great lengths for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with their favorite artist?

But the hefty price tag of devotion comes with its own complexities. Reflecting on her life choices, Glaser admitted her decision not to have children weighed heavily on her. “Choosing not to become a mother wasn’t the easiest decision,” she confessed. Yet in her pursuit of self-fulfillment, she noticed a silver lining. By forgoing motherhood, Glaser found financial freedom—enough to justify her extravagant Swift-related expenditures. “And so once I saw that number,” she added, alluding to the exorbitant costs of raising a child, “I thought, ‘It’s no problem for me to spend this on Taylor Swift.’”

Her perspective shines a light on the modern-day fan experience, blurring the lines between personal fulfillment and devotion to art. Glaser’s experience is a striking reminder that for many, the sacrifices they make—be it financial or emotional—can open the door to extraordinary experiences. In a world fixated on the pursuit of happiness, perhaps Glaser has found hers in the melody of Swift’s songs.

For those watching, it’s hard not to be inspired by Glaser’s unabashed enthusiasm. In a culture where we often measure success in traditional terms—career advancements, family milestones—it’s refreshing to see someone embracing their fandom with such fervor. Could it be that her adoration for Swift is more than just a passing phase? It appears to be a life choice, one that elevates her existence in ways beyond what money could quantify.

As the Golden Globes evolve and new stars emerge, one thing remains clear: whether on stage or in the audience, the connection between talent and fans is what makes these moments magical. Nikki Glaser may not have had Taylor Swift in attendance this time, but her spirit shines brightly, fueled by a passion for both comedy and the artistry of a pop icon—reminding us all to chase what we love, unapologetically and with all we have.

Grizzlies Break the Mold: A Dance of Offense in the NBA’s Evolving Landscape

In the high-octane world of the NBA, where teams constantly evolve, one squad has flipped the script entirely—enter the Memphis Grizzlies. Once synonymous with a grind-it-out, defensive-minded ethos, they’ve transformed their offensive approach into a fluid machine, one that thrives on movement and impeccable spacing. This season, with Ja Morant out for a hefty chunk of games, including 17 so far, the Grizzlies have climbed to a commendable 24-14 record, landing them squarely in the playoff mix and third in the Western Conference. And oh, how they’ve done it—through a beautiful ballet of cuts and constant motion that would make even the most seasoned dance instructor nod in approval.

It’s no secret that Memphis has redefined its identity. Gone are the days when their half-court sets would lead to stagnation. Now, they exemplify a frenetic pace that keeps defenses guessing. Coach Taylor Jenkins has cultivated a system that, as one observer noted, is “unlike any other in the NBA.” This isn’t just about pushing the pace; it’s about intelligent, unscripted plays that come from players reading the game and moving without the ball like seasoned veterans. Desmond Bane has thrived in this setup, showcasing his ability to slide effortlessly from the wing to the corner, leaving defenders in his wake.

Take a recent play as an example: With Morant attracting defenders like a magnet, Bane exploited his space and lined up for an open three-pointer—a classic “spacing cut.” No team slices the floor quite like the Grizzlies. Their ability to cover ground on both ends of the court, as per Second Spectrum, is a sight to behold. They are not just running—they are running smarter, averaging fewer than 30 minutes per player yet maintaining a relentless hustle.

Memphis isn’t just winning; they’re doing it with flair and finesse. They lead the league in points per possession while simultaneously maintaining a firm grip on points allowed. This deadly combination of offensive efficiency and defensive resoluteness is a hallmark of champions. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies have welcomed a new crop of talent, integrating rookies and undrafted players into their lineup—a testament to their scouting and development prowess. Their adaptability is indeed their superpower.

Speaking of adaptability, let’s shift our focus to the Orlando Magic, where Goga Bitadze has emerged as a formidable force. Transforming his game from a traditional stretch big to a lob-finishing menace, Bitadze has become a crowd favorite, flashing his infectious enthusiasm every time he throws down a dunk. In a recent NBA Cup face-off against the Bucks, his celebration following a two-handed slam was pure joy—pointing to teammate Wendell Carter Jr., he looked like a kid in a candy store.

“I’m gonna ask for it,” Bitadze joked about the “fines” his team has for not executing the scouting report—an inside joke, sure, but indicative of a team that thrives on camaraderie and chemistry. He’s not just collecting alley-oops; he’s becoming a highlight reel in the making, finishing 24 lobs this season, ranking him among the league’s best.

Yet, it’s not all smooth sailing in the NBA oceans. The Chicago Bulls find themselves in familiar territory but are navigating the waters differently this time. Traditionally reliant on mid-range jumpers, the Bulls have decidedly shifted their strategy to prioritize the perimeter, leading the league in three-point attempts. A staggering 47 percent of their shots come from beyond the arc, a massive leap from last season’s numbers, where they grappled with offensive inefficiency.

However, with great reliance on the three-ball comes great responsibility—or, in the Bulls’ case, inconsistency. While they’ve dazzled us with explosive shooting nights, they’ve also found themselves stumbling when the shots don’t fall. Their recent streak is a stark reminder of the volatile nature of perimeter play; they’ve proven to be “4-4” in games where they hit 20-plus threes—a paradox for a team built on the long ball.

Despite their struggles, key players like Zach LaVine and Nikola Vučević are finding their rhythm, with LaVine putting up one of his best shooting seasons yet. But the Bulls remain trapped in basketball purgatory, forever teetering on the edge of the Play-In Tournament.

The NBA landscape is a living, breathing organism—some teams are evolving, while others fumble with their identity. The Grizzlies are a testament to what can happen when adaptability meets vision. The Magic are learning to fly high with their newfound lob threats, while the Bulls are redefining their offensive philosophy, albeit with some bumps along the way. As the season unfolds, it’ll be riveting to witness who rises and who falls in the race for supremacy.

Unlocking Fun: The Thrills and Caution of $5 Deposit Casinos in the U.S.

When it comes to online casinos, the allure of low deposit options is hard to resist—especially for players who want to dip their toes into the waters of wagering without fully diving in. Enter the world of $5 deposit casinos in the United States, a realm where accessibility meets excitement. But as always, it’s essential to navigate this landscape with caution and a keen eye for detail.

Take, for instance, Lucky Nugget Casino, a name that has echoed through the online gambling corridors since 1998. It offers a tantalizing offer—after making a mere NZ$1 deposit, players are greeted with a staggering 40 free spins on the Queen of Alexandria slot game. You can almost hear the coins clinking as the slots spin—this isn’t just a promotion; it’s an invitation to explore the thrills of online gaming without breaking the bank.

However, as with all things in life, not all casinos are created equal. When choosing a gaming platform, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons. Gaming Club Casino is a notable contender, establishing itself as a significant player in the online gambling scene. But tread carefully—each casino has its own unique blend of features and limitations. While a $2 or even a $3 deposit casino might seem alluring, it’s easy to get lost in the jargon of bonuses and offers that often come with strings attached.

And let’s talk about the games, shall we? If you’re looking for a path to riches, Microgaming casinos like Spin Casino hold over 600 slots in their arsenal, along with games like European Roulette Gold that could make anyone’s heart race. The thrill of spinning those reels is heightened by the possibility of hitting a progressive jackpot. Remember Super Moolah, dubbed the “millionaire-maker” of the casino world? Its reputation speaks volumes—and it’s not just about luck; it’s about knowing how to play your cards right.

Meanwhile, Ruby Fortune offers a warm welcome for new players. Register, deposit just C$1, and you’re on your way to enjoying those 40 free spins. The combination of a low barrier to entry and the potential for big wins creates a mix that’s hard to ignore. Plus, who can resist the charm of live dealer games that bring the casino experience straight to your living room?

But here’s the kicker: as enticing as these bonuses seem, it’s paramount to read the fine print. Promotions like DraftKings’ recommend-a-friend scheme—where both you and a buddy can bag $100 in casino credits—can be misleading if you’re not aware of the wagering requirements. You’ve got to play smart; it’s not just about the initial thrill of winning.

As the landscape of online gambling continues to expand, a discerning eye will always be your best asset. The $5 deposit casinos are here to stay, drawing in those who crave excitement without the hefty price tag. But remember, vigilance is key—your next big win might be just a click away, provided you know where to look and what to watch for. So gear up, get informed, and dive into the action with both feet—but keep your wits about you, because in the world of online gambling, knowledge is indeed power.

Healthcare Stock Rollercoaster: ZVSA and AKYA Surge, IGMS Takes a Nosedive!

In the whirlwind of Friday’s pre-market session, healthcare stocks were anything but stable, showcasing a dramatic array of gains and losses that would make even the most stoic investor raise an eyebrow. Leading the charge on the gainer’s list was ZyVersa Therapeutics (ZVSA), whose shares skyrocketed by an astounding 44.9%, settling at a tantalizing $1.71. With a market cap hovering around $4.2 million, this meteoric rise certainly caught the attention of analysts and traders alike.

On the heels of this, Akoya Biosciences (AKYA) made waves with a 36.09% increase, nudging their shares up to $3.62. This company is riding high with a market value of $179.4 million, showing that there’s still plenty of life left in the biotech sector—despite some of the turbulence that’s become almost synonymous with it.

Precision BioSciences (DTIL) wasn’t far behind, marking a 31.55% leap to $5.92, with a market capitalization of $45.4 million. It seems investors are paying keen attention to these companies, possibly betting on innovation and future breakthroughs. In stark contrast, Senseonics Holdings (SENS) also posted a respectable 26.6% uptick, reaching a value of $0.54. The company’s market cap stands at $324.3 million, hinting at resilience amid the chaos.

However, it wasn’t all roses in the pre-market landscape. The unfortunate title of biggest loser was claimed by IGM Biosciences (IGMS), plunging a staggering 68.7% to $1.94. This dramatic decline brought its market worth down to $115.3 million—a blow that might take some time to recover from.

Calidi Biotherapeutics (CLDI), too, faced the music with a substantial drop of 28.15%, dragging its stock down to $0.97 and leaving it with a market cap of just $18.2 million. SILO Pharma (SILO) fell by 19.3%, trading at $1.38 while its market cap settled at $6.1 million. Investors’ confidence seems to wane for these companies—at least for the time being.

Meanwhile, ModivCare (MODV) experienced a 16.98% decline, with shares plummeting to $10.37, reflecting a market cap of $148.1 million. Inspire Veterinary Partners (IVP) wasn’t spared either, dropping 15.16% to a mere $0.15, which left its market cap at $4.8 million. And let’s not forget Solid Biosciences (SLDB), which saw its shares sink by 11.92%, settling at $3.55. This company is now looking at a market cap of $141.8 million.

As investors wade through the thick and thin of stock performance on this tumultuous Friday, the stark contrasts in market movements between thriving and struggling companies remind us of the unpredictable nature of the healthcare sector. For now, it’s a rollercoaster ride, and the question remains—who’s ready to buckle up for the next twist?

Tencent’s Fight Against the U.S. Blacklist: A Battle for Reputation and Influence

In a stunning twist of events, Tencent Holdings—often synonymous with massive gaming and tech innovation—finds itself entangled in geopolitical strife, having recently been slapped with a spot on the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DoD) blacklist of Chinese military companies. At first glance, this may appear to be a mere bureaucratic bungle, but the stakes are unmistakably high for one of the largest corporations on the planet, not to mention the world’s biggest publisher of video games.

With a statement that resonated through financial markets, Tencent vehemently rebuffed the accusation, labeling it a “misunderstanding.” The company is determined to clear its good name, asserting, “As the Company is neither a Chinese military company nor a military-civil fusion contributor to the Chinese defense industrial base, it believes that its inclusion in the CMC List is a mistake.” This bold assertion conveys not only frustration but a readiness to fight back—Tencent is preparing to “initiate a Reconsideration Process to correct this mistake.”

But what does this designation mean? Labeled as a Chinese military company, Tencent’s inclusion on the list doesn’t come with immediate sanctions—at least not in the typical sense. However, it does cast a long shadow over its reputation, essentially waving a red flag to U.S. investors wary of entanglements with companies deemed militaristic. The DoD’s CMC List aims to deter U.S. investors from engaging with firms suspected of having ties to the People’s Liberation Army or those that might otherwise bolster the Chinese defense industrial complex.

Perhaps the most palpable consequence of this designation was felt in the stock market: Tencent’s shares tumbled by 7% in Hong Kong following the announcement. That’s not just a drop; it’s a reminder that reputational damage can translate into cold, hard cash losses. Nonetheless, Tencent is not alone in this battle—other companies have previously navigated the rocky waters of the CMC List. For example, Xiaomi Corporation successfully negotiated its removal back in 2021, setting a precedent that Tencent hopes to emulate.

What’s particularly striking about Tencent’s fight is their willingness to take legal action if necessary. “During the process,” the company stated, “it will engage in discussions with the U.S. Department of Defense to resolve any misunderstanding, and if necessary, will undertake legal proceedings to remove the Company from the CMC List.” This proactive stance suggests that Tencent, despite the challenges, is ready to go to bat for its position, displaying an assertiveness that might surprise those accustomed to more passive corporate responses.

As one dives deeper into the complications of global tech companies operating amid rising geopolitical tensions, it becomes evident that Tencent’s portfolio is a staggering web of influence—owning notable names like Riot Games, Funcom, and Grinding Gear Games. Moreover, its investments stretch to powerhouses such as Epic Games, FromSoftware, and Roblox Corporation. You want to know who’s behind some of your favorite titles? You’re likely looking at Tencent.

In an age where tech companies are being scrutinized not just for their business practices but their geopolitical affiliations, Tencent’s plight exemplifies the complexity of operating in a global market where technology and politics overlap. As Tencent aims to wrestle its reputation back, the company will need to navigate a landscape that has morphed from digital playgrounds to battlegrounds of influence—markets that don’t just value innovation but also scrutinize the very nature of a company’s allegiances.

As the saga unfolds, investors, gamers, and tech enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see if Tencent can reclaim its standing amid political noise, or if this blacklist will mark a significant turning point in its illustrious journey.

Unseen Traumas: The Devastating Impact of Gang Grooming on Our Children

Mary Bokassa’s heart-wrenching story is one that echoes through the halls of communities nationwide—her son, Kelyan, only 14 years old, fell victim to a brutal reality that too many vulnerable children face today. Stabbed 12 times on a bus in broad daylight—just hours after returning to school—Kelyan’s death is not just a statistic; it’s a loud, painful wake-up call about the dangers lurking in the shadows of our society. As Mary poignantly shared, “I screamed it, I said, ‘My son is going to be killed.’” Her voice, filled with anguish, encapsulates the despair that echoes in homes dealing with gang grooming—a menace that has plagued countless families like hers.

What happened to Kelyan is part of a larger, disturbing trend—one that sees criminal gangs using increasingly calculated methods to ensnare children, some as young as six. Like skilled predators, they lure these kids in with offers that sound like fairy tales—money, the latest tech gadgets, trendy shoes, and an enticing sense of belonging. Yet, beneath the surface, there lies a sinister agenda, turning innocent children into tools for drug trafficking. As Mary articulated, Kelyan had been targeted for years—every plea for help met with a wall of indifference: “We didn’t get the help we needed.”

In a grim twist of fate, Kelyan was not alone in his struggles. His aspirations—characterized by laughter, kindness, and ambition—were overshadowed by the realities of his circumstances. Expelled from school and entangled in legal troubles, he was just a child—an adolescent in search of direction, not a hardened criminal. His mother referred to the forces against him as grooming—a term that has resurfaced frequently in discussions surrounding the exploitation of young people. Those in power have long been warned about the insidious nature of “county lines” operations, where organized crime extends its reach into the vulnerable lives of youths in suburban areas.

Tragically, this focus on exploitation is not new. The echoes of Kelyan’s death reverberate back to past tragedies—like that of Corey Junior Davis, another young boy lost to the perils of gang violence. Both boys were victims of systemic failures, an indictment of a system that, time and time again, seems to miss the mark. A poignant reminder is drawn from Anne Longfield’s observations: these boys are not jettisoning their childhoods willingly; they are being coerced by adults who see profit in their vulnerability.

A chilling reality persists: it’s only in their final moments—when they lie bleeding, crying for their mothers—that society sees them for what they truly are—children. While Kelyan had laid flowers for Daejaun Campbell, another young victim of violence, it’s apparent that lives are being lost far too easily, often boiled down to headlines that fade as quickly as they are printed.

Scotland has tried to combat this disheartening trend through innovative policies. By adopting a public health-led approach—targeting the root causes of violent behavior—they’ve seen success in lowering violent crime. Yet, what seems evident is the need for a comprehensive and cohesive strategy here in England, spearheaded by leaders who recognize the urgency. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is attempting to forge such pathways with her cross-government initiative aimed at addressing the myriad challenges facing today’s youth—mental health, social services, and more. But as she scrambles to gather a budget suitable for the demands of her mission, one can’t help but question whether enough is being done—whether society will rally behind a cause that feels all too distant.

But the crux of the matter is not merely in policies or funding; it’s about recognizing the children at risk—the ones who, left unchecked, will inevitably spiral into the arms of exploitation. If society continues to turn a blind eye, we will face a future where more mothers, like Mary Bokassa, will be left in tears, unable to save their children from the very predators that are supposed to be kept at bay. Further, if we fail to see the stark reality of what’s unfolding—young lives caught in a web of crime and violence—we risk becoming mere spectators, watching in horror as more lives slip through our fingers in broad daylight.

A Tragic Wake-Up Call: The Silent Epidemic of Youth Exploitation and Violence

Mary Bokassa’s world was shattered when the life of her 14-year-old son, Kelyan, was snuffed out in a brutal stabbing on a London bus—a chilling, daylight attack that left a community reeling. In the aftermath of this senseless act, Mary revealed a harrowing truth: Kelyan had been groomed by predatory gangsters since he was just six years old. “I tried to prevent it. I’ve tried so many, so many times. I screamed it, I said, ‘My son is going to be killed,’” she lamented, her voice quaking with anguish. It’s a painful admission that forces us to confront uncomfortable questions about how society supports its most vulnerable.

Kelyan’s story is not an isolated incident. How many more kids like him are teetering on the edge, lured into a life of crime by violent adults who exploit their youthful naivety? The rise of “county lines” operations—where organized crime networks extend their reach into the heart of suburban communities—has been both alarming and tragically familiar. Boys barely out of primary school, armed with nothing but bravado and a longing for acceptance, are enticed into a dark world of drug trafficking, violence, and, ultimately, exploitation.

Once seen as just another rebellious teen, Kelyan was, in truth, a casualty of systemic failure. Described by his mother as “funny, kind and ambitious,” he fought against the stark reality of a life marred by violence. Expelled from school and tangled in legal issues, Kelyan was due in court shortly before his death, a stark reminder that beneath the bravado of a teenager often lies fear and vulnerability.

As Mary reflected on her son’s trajectory, she painted a haunting picture of a child whose life spiraled out of control—a life once filled with dreams, now overshadowed by gang influences. If Kelyan’s story echoes a familiar refrain, it’s because we’ve seen this narrative unfold too many times in recent years. Take the case of Corey Junior Davis, who similarly fell victim to the destructive grip of gang culture. After confessing to being pressured into selling drugs, Corey was let down by a system that failed to recognize him as a victim, treating him instead like a criminal.

The parallels between Kelyan and Corey’s stories are stark and unsettling. Both boys were ensnared by adult criminals who preyed on their vulnerabilities, yet tragically, they were viewed through a lens of delinquency rather than compassion. Social workers and authorities missed the crucial signs, failing to see that these were not merely young offenders but young lives at risk—lives asking for help while feeling the weight of the world on their shoulders.

It’s time we acknowledge these children for who they truly are: victims of a vicious cycle of exploitation. They are drawn into a world that promises status and money, only to be left holding the bag when the consequences catch up. As Mary Bokassa’s heart-wrenching testimony illustrates, we are witnessing an epidemic that requires urgent attention. The question remains—what can we do to halt this growing crisis?

Scotland has made strides in tackling violent crime through a public health-led approach focusing on the root causes of behavior in children. Their success demonstrates that with the right framework, it’s possible to shift the narrative from blame to prevention. New initiatives, like the “young futures” unit led by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, aim to take a holistic view of young people’s lives—attempting to address everything from mental health issues to the need for youth services that have been decimated by budget cuts.

However, the reality is stark; the budget allocated so far falls woefully short of what’s needed to truly make an impact. And let’s be honest—until we, as a society, can see and act upon the signs of exploitation, we will continue to bury our heads in the sand. Failing to protect our children means more tragedies, more mothers like Mary, and more lives lost before they even had a chance to flourish.

The cold truth is that Kelyan Bokassa could have been any one of our children—an innocent caught in the crossfire of a life he never chose. As parents, community members, and citizens, we must collectively reckon with the hard questions raised in the wake of his death. If we remain silent or indifferent to the vulnerabilities faced by our youth, we leave the door wide open for the predators lurking in the shadows, ready to strike again.

Mel Gibson’s House Burns In L.A. While Doing Joe Rogan Interview

Mel Gibson lost his home to the Los Angeles-area wildfires while he was doing an interview with hit podcaster Joe Rogan in Austin, Texas.

Gibson told NewsNation’s Elizabeth Vargas in a phone interview Thursday that was taping an interview with Rogan for The Joe Rogan Experience as the wildfires swept through Malibu.

“I was in Austin doing the Rogan podcast — I was kind of ill at ease while we were talking, because I knew my neighborhood was on fire, so I thought, I wonder if my place is still there,” Gibson told Vargas. “But when I got home, sure enough, it wasn’t there. I went home and I said to myself, well, at least I haven’t got any of those pesky plumbing problems anymore.”

The L.A. wildfires broke out Tuesday, resulting in either damages or total destruction of thousands of homes and businesses in the area, while thousands more residents were evacuated because of the blazes. Several Hollywood TV productions have been paused during the blazes while events including red carpet premieres and awards season events have been postponed or canceled.

Gibson told Vargas that he took some of the video that was being shown during their interview, while his girlfriend, Rosalind Ross, took some of the other footage. Gibson noted that Ross and their son, Lars, were safe, since they were evacuated from the area before wildfires spread to their home.

Gibson said during the interview that “it was emotional” seeing his raised home since he had lived there for about 14 to 15 years. He also noted that his house contained a lot of personal things he won’t be able to get back including photos and files, but other things he lost can be replaced.

“These are only things,” Gibson told Vargas. “And the good, the good news is that you know, those in my family and those I love are all well, and we’re all happy and healthy and out of harm’s way and that’s all I can care about, really.”

Some of the other Hollywood notables who have lost their homes to the wildfires in the area include Jeff Bridges, Billy Crystal, Mandy Moore, Eugene Levy, Paris Hilton, James Woods and Anthony Hopkins.

Mel Gibson told NewsNation’s Elizabeth Vargas that others were affected by the fire in his Malibu neighborhood.

“The neighbors really got it hard. Ed Harris, the actor, who lives down the street — I think his place is gone, [as were] many of my friends’ [homes] up and down the street,” Gibson said in the NewsNation interview. “It was kind of random. It wasn’t every place but it was quite a few places — there [were] a dozen places or so that were just non-existent. Nothing but a chimney and few roof tiles … the vehicles were gone — everything.”

Effectively, Gibson added, the area was “completely toasted.”

“I’ve never seen such a complete burn,” Gibson told Vargas. “It’s like somebody did it on purpose to really destroy every aspect of it.”

Gibson is readying the release of his next film as a director — the airplane thriller Flight Risk — which stars Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Dockery and Topher Grace.

The film, which will be released in theaters on Jan. 24, marks Gibson’s first film as a director since his Oscar-nominated World War II epic Hacksaw Ridge in 2016.

Mandy Moore tells trolls ‘f*** off’ after backlash over celeb LA fire GoFundMe

MANDY Moore told trolls to “F*** off” after asking for donations to help her relatives who lost their home in the LA wildfires.

The This Is Us star hit back online after facing backlash for sharing a GoFundMe campaign for her brother-in-law and sister-in-law.

Despite losing part of her own home, Moore faced criticism online, with some accusing her of not doing enough to help her family financially.

“People questioning whether we’re helping out our own family or attributing some arbitrary amount of money Google says someone has is NOT helpful or empathetic,” Moore snapped in an Instagram post.

“Of course we are. Our buddy Matt started this GoFundMe, and I’m sharing because people have asked how they can help them.

“We just lost most of our life in a fire too. Kindly F OFF. No one is forcing you to do anything.”

The GoFundMe, started by Hilary Duff’s husband, Matthew Koma, has nearly reached its $145,000 goal, with actor Zachary Levi contributing $10,000.

Moore’s sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Griffin, lost their home and possessions, including Griffin’s collection of drums and percussion equipment, from which he would make a living.

The tragedy comes just weeks before the couple welcomes their first child.

“It’s all so much. So many have asked how to help during this unimaginable and stressful time… Please consider donating and sharing to help them rebuild,” Moore wrote.

The raging wildfires in Los Angeles have wreaked havoc across the city, leaving behind a trail of destruction.

Fierce Santa Ana winds, gusting over 70 mph, have fueled the flames, making it nearly impossible for firefighters to contain the blazes.

Over 180,000 residents have been forced to evacuate, and thousands of structures have been reduced to ash.

At least ten people have been confirmed dead, though officials fear the number could rise as crews begin to sift through the rubble.

The fires have hit celebrity neighborhoods particularly hard, with stars like Mel Gibson, Bella Hadid, and Paris Hilton losing their homes.

Others, such as Mark Hamill and Tom Hanks, narrowly escaped devastation, their properties standing amidst charred ruins.

The economic toll of the wildfires is staggering, with damage estimates climbing to as much as $150 billion.

Governor Gavin Newsom has deployed over 1,400 firefighters, with additional teams arriving from neighboring states, but the battle to contain the flames is far from over.

This year’s wildfires have once again highlighted the vulnerability of even the most affluent areas of Los Angeles to nature’s fury, leaving thousands homeless and entire communities shattered.

Moore’s own home in Altadena, which she shares with husband Taylor Goldsmith, was partially burned but “miraculously” still standing.

But the garage, backhouse, and a music studio belonging to Goldsmith and Griffin were reduced to ash.

“Everyone we know lost everything. Every house on our street is gone,” Moore wrote, adding that she was grappling with “weird survivor’s guilt.”

The tragedy hit an eerie parallel with Moore’s role on This Is Us, where her character’s family loses their home to a fire.

Co-star Milo Ventimiglia also lost his home in the wildfires, calling the situation a surreal case of “life imitating art.”

Despite the criticism, many fans have rallied around Moore, urging empathy and compassion.

One supporter wrote: “If you don’t want to donate, don’t, but please try to lead with empathy.”

Actor From ‘Ernest’ Movies Dies: Bill Byrge Was 92

Byrge played Bobby in numerous movies in the Ernest franchise.

Ernest movies fan-favorite Bill Byrge has died. The librarian-turned-actor’s cousin Sharon Chapman shared the news on Facebook that he passed away in the Nashville area at noon on Jan. 9. “He was a beautiful soul who made people laugh without even trying,” Chapman wrote. “He was the ‘Bobby’ character in several Ernest movies with Jim Varney. I always teased him of being a ‘star’ in our family. He deserved it as raised poor, but his momma taught him love, respect, and faith which he showed everyone. Heaven gained a sweet soul today. Love you, Billy. See you soon!” Byrge was 92.

According to Deadline, the Tennessee native initially worked at the Metro Nashville Public Library. He left in the mid-’90s to put his full focus on acting. The decision came after he landed his first role in 1985 as a gas station attendant in Dr. Otto and the Riddle of the Gloom Beam. He then played Bobby in several movies in the Ernest franchise, starting with Ernest Saves Christmas in 1988. He also appeared in Ernest Goes to Jail, Ernest Scared Stupid, and Ernest Goes to School.

Byrge also appeared in 1988’s Harry the Dirty Dog in an uncredited role as a painter as well as Ernest co-star Jim Varney’s Saturday morning show Hey Vern, It’s Ernest in 1988. Chapman told TMZ that Varney died in 2000, he returned to work as a librarian. Byrge briefly returned to acting in 2010 for the comedy Billy & Bobby the Whacky Duo on Vacation!

He didn’t appear in much else after the Ernest movies, but since he went back to being a librarian in 2000, it’s not so surprising. The Ernest films are still some of the most beloved movies, which center on the character of Ernest P. Worrell played by Varney. There are a total of nine films in the franchise that released between the 1980s and 1990s as well as the one TV show. Ernest in the Army in 1998 was the final film released in the franchise, which was direct-to-video.

As of now, a cause of death has not been revealed, but it seems like, at the very least, his family, including Sharon Chapman, are keeping his memory alive, and she’s hoping to see her cousin again soon. Fans can always watch the Ernest movies to get their Bill Byrge fix and help keep his memory going.