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Beloved Friends, Tootsie and Mr Mom star passes away

Teri Garr, the beloved actress known for her iconic roles in classic films such as Young Frankenstein and Tootsie and her appearances on Friends, has passed away at the age of 79. Her death, confirmed by her publicist Heidi Schaeffer, occurred on Tuesday in Los Angeles, surrounded by family and friends. Garr's passing follows a long battle with multiple sclerosis, a condition she publicly disclosed in 2002 to raise awareness about the disease and its impact on daily life. Born Terry Ann Garr in Lakewood, Ohio, in 1944, Teri grew up in a theatrical family; her father was a vaudeville performer and her mother a Rockette. This background set the stage for Garr's early career, which began as a background dancer in Elvis Presley films during the 1960s. Her breakout role came in 1974 when she starred as Inga, the charming lab assistant to Gene Wilder's character in Mel Brooks' Young Frankenstein. The film became a cornerstone of American comedy, showcasing Garr's unique blend of humour and warmth. Garr further solidified her place in cinematic history with her performance in Tootsie in 1982, where she portrayed the vulnerable actress friend of Dustin Hoffman’s character. This role earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Critics praised her ability to balance comedy with emotional depth, with film critic Pauline Kael calling her "the funniest neurotic dizzy dame on the screen" at that time. Despite her success, Garr faced significant challenges due to her health. She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis during the filming of Tootsie, a struggle she detailed in her memoir, Speedbumps: Flooring It Through Hollywood. In it, she described MS as a "sneaky disease," one that complicated her life and career but did not define it. “My body had a trick or two up its sleeve," she wrote. "A stumble here, a tingling finger there. I was trained as a dancer and knew better than to indulge the random aches and pains that visited now and then. Being a successful Hollywood actress may be challenging, but little did I know that the very body that had always been my calling card would betray me.” Garr became an advocate for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, using her platform to inspire others facing similar challenges. Throughout her career, Garr appeared in over 140 film and TV projects. She was known for her roles in Mr. Mom, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and various television shows including Friends, where she played Phoebe's birth mother. Her playful spirit and comedic timing made her a favourite among audiences and fellow actors alike. In recent years, Garr had limited her appearances due to health issues but remained an influential figure in Hollywood. Tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues alike, celebrating her legacy as a pioneer for women in comedy and an inspiration for those battling chronic illnesses. Teri Garr leaves behind a rich legacy filled with laughter and heart. She is survived by her daughter Molly O'Neil and grandson Tyryn. Her contributions to film and television will be remembered fondly by generations to come. Images: CNN \ Fox Studios

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Broadway star files for divorce amid Hugh Jackman rumour

Broadway star Sutton Foster has filed for divorce from her screenwriter husband, Ted Griffin, after ten years of marriage. The 49-year-old actress filed for uncontested divorce in New York County Supreme Court on Tuesday, according to Page Six. The pair got married in Santa Barbara in 2014, and adopted their daughter Emily three years later. Page Six reports that rumours about Foster's marriage being on the rocks began circulating in Broadway circles when she starred in The Music Man alongside Hugh Jackman. They also said that multiple sources have claimed the pair have fallen in love. “They are 100 per cent together and are in love and want to spend the rest of their lives together,” a source previously told Page Six. The publication claims that their relationship is going strong, but they have been staying out of the public eye and keeping it under wraps. “They are still together,” a source told Page Six. “They go out of their way to hide it, but it’s common knowledge.” Jackman filed for divorce from Deborra-Lee Furness, after 27 years of marriage, in September 2023. Furness and Jackman released a joint statement at the time, saying: “We have been blessed to share almost three decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage. Our journey now is shifting, and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth.” Neither Jackman or Foster have commented on the reports. Image: Lev Radin/Pacific Press/ Shutterstock Editorial

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"One of the greatest men": Tarzan star dies at age 86

Tarzan star Ron Ely has died at the age of 86. The news of his passing was confirmed in an emotional statement by his daughter Kirsten, who wrote, “The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad." “My father was someone that people called a hero. He was an actor, writer, coach, mentor, family man and leader. He created a powerful wave of positive influence wherever he went. The impact he had on others is something that I have never witnessed in any other person – there was something truly magical about him. This is how the world knew him.” “I knew him as my dad – and what a heaven sent honour that has been. To me, he hung the moon.” “My father’s life story was one of relentless perseverance, unending dedication to his family and friends, courage to do what was right, and willing sacrifice to facilitate the dreams of those he loved,” Kirsten continued. “It was also a story of joy and love – something everyone close to him had the privilege of experiencing. Once you knew my father’s love, the world grew to be a brighter and more meaningful place.” “I am doing my best to walk this path of loss with the strength and grace that I know he would want for me,” she added. “My greatest comfort is knowing that my dad is with my momma and my brother. It is also my greatest sadness because I miss them all so much that it’s etched into my soul. I will proudly carry all of my favourite pieces of them – lovingly cemented into my heart – until we all meet again.” Ely first one to fame in the 1960s with his role as Tarzan in the NBC TV series, which ran from 1966 to 1968. He later returned for Universal’s Doc Savage: The Man of Bronze in 1975, and took on guest roles on some of TV’s biggest shows, including Wonder Woman, The Love Boat, Fantasy Island and Superboy. Ely is survived by his daughters, Kirstin and Kaitland. In 2019, his son, Cameron, was shot and killed by Santa Barbara County sheriff's deputies after allegedly stabbing his mother, Ely’s wife, to death. Image credits: Matthew Rettenmund / Banner/Kobal / Shutterstock Editorial

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Baywatch star dies after lengthy health battle

Baywatch actor Michael Newman has died at the age of 68 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease. The actor, who played lifeguard Mike “Newmie” Newman on Baywatch in the 1990s, was diagnosed with the neurological condition 18 years ago, and died “from heart complications” on Sunday evening “surrounded by his family and friends.” His death was confirmed Tuesday by Newman’s close friend, Matt Felker, who recently directed the Hulu docu-series about Baywatch. “I got to see Mike the last time he was conscious and he looked [at] me and in typical Mike fashion said, ‘You’re just in time,’” Felker told <a href="https://people.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">People.</a> Newman was the only Baywatch cast member who was a real-life lifeguard. He appeared on 150 episodes of the show, the most of anyone except David Hasselhoff. While starring on Baywatch, he continued to work as a full-time firefighter and returned to the job after the show ended in 2001, until he retired after 25 years. Newman was 50 when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2006, as he spoke about living with the disease just months ago. “This terminal disease has allowed me a lot of thinking time, which I maybe didn’t want, but it’s brought me wisdom,” Newman told People in August. “My body has changed so slowly that I hardly notice it, yet I am constantly reminded that Parkinson’s has now become the centre of my life,” he added. “I am cherishing the days that I get to be on this earth with family and friends,” he went on. “I’m taking life seriously.” Newman spent the final years of his life raising money with the Michael J. Fox Foundation to help find a cure for Parkinson’s. The late star is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sarah, their children Chris and Emily, and their 1-year-old granddaughter, Charlie. Image credits: SplashNews.com/Shutterstock Editorial

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Why do I have hay fever? I didn’t have it as a child

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/janet-davies-103598">Janet Davies</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joy-lee-1480523">Joy Lee</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/monash-university-1065">Monash University</a> Hay fever (or allergic rhinitis) is a long-term inflammatory condition that’s incredibly common. It affects about <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/national-health-survey-state-and-territory-findings/latest-release">one-quarter</a> of Australians. Symptoms vary but <a href="https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/fast-facts/hay-fever-allergic-rhinitis">can include</a> sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny or blocked nose. Hay fever can also contribute to sinus and ear infections, snoring, poor sleep and asthma, as well as lower performance at school or work. But many people didn’t have hay fever as a child, and only develop symptoms as a teenager or adult. Here’s how a combination of genetics, hormones and the environment can lead to people developing hay fever later in life. <h2>Remind me, what is hay fever?</h2> Hay fever is caused by the nose, eyes and throat coming into contact with a substance to which a person is allergic, known as an allergen. Common sources of outside allergens include airborne grass, weed or tree pollen, and mould spores. Pollen allergens can be carried indoors on clothes, and through open windows and doors. Depending on where you live, you may be exposed to a range of pollen types across the pollen season, but grass pollen is the most common trigger of hay fever. In <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935122010891?via%3Dihub">some regions</a> the grass pollen season can extend from spring well into summer and autumn. <h2>How does hay fever start?</h2> Hay fever symptoms most commonly start in adolescence or young adulthood. <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/JAA.S170285">One study</a> found 7% of children aged six had hay fever, but that grew to 44% of adults aged 24. Before anyone has hay fever symptoms, their immune system has already been “sensitised” to specific allergens, often allergens of grass pollen. Exposure to these allergens means their immune system has made a particular type of antibody (known as IgE) against them. During repeated or prolonged exposure to an allergen source such as pollen, a person’s immune system may start to respond to another part of the same allergen, or another allergen within the pollen. Over time, these new allergic sensitisations can lead to development of <a href="https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(12)00959-1/fulltext">hay fever</a> and possibly other conditions, such as allergic asthma. <h2>Why do some people only develop hay fever as an adult?</h2> 1. Environmental factors Some people develop hay fever as an adult simply because they’ve had more time to become sensitised to specific allergens. Migration or moving to a new location can also change someone’s risk of developing hay fever. This may be due to exposure to different <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969722076884">pollens</a>, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969724060194?via%3Dihub">climate and weather</a>, green space <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/all.14177">and/or</a> air quality factors. A number of studies <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0105347">show</a> people who have migrated from low- and middle-income countries to higher-income countries may be at a higher risk of developing hay fever. This may due to local environmental conditions influencing expression of genes that regulate the immune system. 2. Hormonal factors <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.anai.2015.04.019">Hormonal changes</a> at puberty may also help drive the onset of hay fever. This may relate to sex hormones, such as oestrogen and progesterone, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9392967/#R55">affecting</a> histamine levels, immune regulation, and the response of cells in the lining of the nose and lower airways. 3. Genetic factors <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/ng.3985">Our genes</a> underpin <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542187/">our risk</a> of hay fever, and whether this and other related allergic disease persists. For instance, babies with the skin condition eczema (known as atopic dermatitis) have a <a href="https://www.annallergy.org/article/S1081-1206(21)00172-1/abstract">three times greater risk</a> of developing hay fever (and asthma) later in life. Having a food allergy in childhood is also a risk factor for developing hay fever later in life. In the case of a peanut allergy, that risk is more than <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27542726/">2.5 times greater</a>. <h2>What are the best options for treatment?</h2> Depending on where you live, avoiding allergen exposures can be difficult. But <a href="https://auspollen.edu.au/auspollensitesmap/">pollen count forecasts</a>, if available, can be useful. These can help you decide whether it’s best to stay inside to reduce your pollen exposure, or to take preventative medications. You may also find <a href="https://www.health.vic.gov.au/environmental-health/epidemic-thunderstorm-asthma-risk-forecast">alerts on thunderstorm asthma</a>, where pollens combine with specific weather conditions to trigger <a href="https://theconversation.com/we-could-see-thunderstorm-asthma-in-south-eastern-australia-this-season-heres-how-to-prepare-215793">breathing difficulties</a>. If you have mild, occasional hay fever symptoms, you can take non-drowsy antihistamines, which you can buy at the pharmacy. However, for more severe or persistent symptoms, intranasal steroid sprays, or an intranasal spray containing a steroid with antihistamine, are the <a href="https://theconversation.com/can-i-take-antihistamines-everyday-more-than-the-recommended-dose-what-if-im-pregnant-heres-what-the-research-says-228390">most effective treatments</a>. However, it is important to use these <a href="https://allergyfacts.org.au/allergic-rhinitis-treatment/">regularly and correctly</a>. Allergen immunotherapy, also known as desensitisation, is an <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/all.13201">effective treatment</a> for people with severe hay fever symptoms that can reduce the need for medication and avoiding allergens. However, it involves a longer treatment course (about three years), usually with the supervision of an allergy or immunology specialist. <h2>When should people see their doctor?</h2> It is important to treat hay fever, because symptoms can significantly affect a <a href="https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/10/11/e038870.long">person’s quality of life</a>. A GP can: <ul> <li> recommend treatments for hay fever and can guide you to use them correctly </li> <li> organise blood tests to confirm which allergen sensitisations (if any) are present, and whether these correlate with your symptoms </li> <li> screen for asthma, which commonly exists with hay fever, and may require other treatments </li> <li> arrange referrals to allergy or immunology specialists, if needed, for other tests, such as allergen skin prick testing, or to consider <a href="https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/allergy-treatments/allergen-immunotherapy">allergen immunotherapy</a> if symptoms are severe. </li> </ul> <hr /> More information about hay fever is available from the <a href="https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/fast-facts/hay-fever-allergic-rhinitis">Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy</a> and <a href="https://allergyfacts.org.au/">Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia</a>.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/239409/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/janet-davies-103598">Janet Davies</a>, Respiratory Allergy Stream Co-chair, National Allergy Centre of Excellence; Professor and Head, Allergy Research Group, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joy-lee-1480523">Joy Lee</a>, Respiratory Allergy Stream member, National Allergy Centre of Excellence; Associate Professor, School of Translational Medicine, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/monash-university-1065">Monash University</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-do-i-have-hay-fever-i-didnt-have-it-as-a-child-239409">original article</a>.

Body

One Direction star passes away aged 31

Former One Direction star Liam Payne has reportedly been found dead outside a hotel in Buenos Aires, in Argentina, according to local newspaper La Nacion. The 31-year-old is believed to have fallen from the third floor of a hotel at around 5pm local time the newspaper said, citing emergency services. According to La Nacion the local police station was called by the hotel manager who reported "an aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol". It is reported that Payne fell from around 13 or 14 metres and suffered "very serious injuries incompatible with life." Alberto Crescenti, head of the state emergency medical system SAME (El Sistema de Atención Médica de Emergencias), told local TV that Payne had fallen into a courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in the Palermo neighbourhood. “At 17.11, a SAME team arrived and confirmed the man’s death. We later learned that he was a singer in a musical group. “Unfortunately, he had injuries incompatible with life as a result of his fall, so we had to confirm his death. There was no possibility of resuscitation.” Payne was one of the founding members of One Direction, one of the most loved boy bands of the past decade. He auditioned first as a solo act for the UK reality series The X Factor in 2008, before being eliminated. In 2010 he auditioned again and was grouped with Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik by the judges to form One Direction. Image: SplashNews.com/ Shutterstock Editorial

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Harry Potter stars pay tribute to Dame Maggie Smith

The stars of the Harry Potter franchise have paid tribute to Dame Maggie Smith, after the Oscar-winning actress passed away on Friday at the age of 89. Smith, who played the role of Professor McGonagall throughout the eight movies, was honoured by dozens of her co-stars, including Harry Potter himself: Daniel Radcliffe. Radcliffe shared a statement to Entertainment Weekly, writing, "She was a fierce intellect, a gloriously sharp tongue, could intimidate and charm in the same instant and was, as everyone will tell you, extremely funny." "I will always consider myself amazingly lucky to have been able to work with her, and to spend time around her on set. The word legend is overused but if it applies to anyone in our industry then it applies to her. Thank you Maggie." Emma Watson also shared a tribute on Instagram alongside the two actresses working together, reflecting on Smith's impact on set. She said, "When I was younger I had no idea of Maggie's legend — the woman I was fortunate to share space with. It is only as I've become an adult that I've come to appreciate that I shared the screen with a true definition of greatness." "She was real, honest, funny and self-honouring. Maggie, there were a lot of male professors and by God you held your own. Thank you for all of your kindness. I'll miss you." Rupert Grint also shared a photo of the pair together, referencing a particular fan favourite scene from the fourth Harry Potter film, writing, "Heartbroken to hear about Maggie. She was so special, always hilarious and always kind. I feel incredibly lucky to have shared a set with her and particularly lucky to have shared a dance. I'll miss you, Maggie. Sending all my love to her family." Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black in the franchise, shared a statement with Entertainment Weekly on Maggie's passing, praising her acting talents, saying, "Maggie Smith, one of the true Greats along with [Laurence] Olivier and [John] Gielgud… those who saw her dazzling talent on the stage say they can never forget her. Her magnificent film performances remain for all to see and enjoy. Such an artist comes along about every other generation. If one is lucky." The news of Maggie Smith's passing was confirmed by her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens who said in a statement, “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27 September." “An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.” Image credits: Warner Brothers/Paul Marriott/Shutterstock Editorial

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Iconic Days of Our Lives star dies aged 70

Drake Hogestyn has passed away aged 70. The Days of Our Lives actor, known for his long-running role as John Black passed away on Saturday after a battle with pancreatic cancer, according to a statement shared by his family on Instagram. “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the statement began. “He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination.” “After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor. He loved performing for the ‘Days’ audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.” Hogestyn first appeared on the iconic US soap opera in 1986, and played John Black for 38 years. In a statement to Soap Opera Digest, Days Of Our Lives executive producer Ken Corday remembered the actor, who appeared in more than 4,200 episodes of the show. “This is a very difficult one for all of us,” he said. “Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not sufficient words to express how deeply he will be missed. His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.” His co-stars and colleagues have also paid their respects on social media. “I’m so saddened by this news,” tweeted Kassie DePaiva, who played Eve on the soap. “One of the kindest people I have ever worked with. What an amazing life he lived. He will be missed. He made the world a better place.” Fellow veteran soap star Nancy Lee Grahn, who plays Alexis on General Hospital tweeted: “My deepest condolences to Drake Hogestyn’s family, friends and fans. What a lovely, lovely gracious man.” Image: SplashNews.com/ Shutterstock Editorial

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Body found in search for wife of former rugby star

A body has been found in the search for Jenny Hastings, the wife of the former Scotland rugby star Scott Hastings. Jenny, 60, went missing at Wardie Bay, a wild swimming spot near Edinburgh, on Tuesday. A massive search involving police, ambulance and coastguard crews was launched in the Firth of Forth, according to The Sun. Despite their efforts, the search was stood down on Tuesday night. On Saturday afternoon, police said a woman's body was found in the Hound Point area of South Queensferry, near Edinburgh. Formal identification has yet to take place, but police said that: “The family of missing woman Jenny Hastings has been informed.” They also said "there did not appear to be any suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal". Police were treating her disappearance as a “high-risk missing persons case,” as Jenny struggles with her mental health. Her family previously issued a statement amid fears she was dead. “It appears that she wished to end her suffering in what was a regular and healing place for her," they said. “She loved the water but unfortunately her mind was not in a place of safety. “The Hastings family are absolutely heartbroken. We miss our Jenny. “She leaves a gaping hole in all our hearts and hope that she is returned to us safely so that we can celebrate her remarkable life.” Scottish Rugby also shared a statement on social media yesterday, sending their love and support to the Hastings family. “Scottish Rugby sends its love and support to Scott Hastings, Scotland cap 848, after his wife Jenny was reported missing whilst swimming earlier this week. “Our thoughts are with their children, and the wider Hastings family, at this heartbreaking time.” Jenny had been open about her struggles with mental health. In March 2017, she disappeared from the couple's Edinburgh home for 36 hours and walked to the Pentland Hills while she was suffering from depression. The couple both became ambassadors for charity Support in Mind Scotland and devoted work to helping others with their own mental health by staying active. They helped launch the 100 Streets challenge, encouraging people to get out and exercise with friends. Images: news.com.au

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Can a 10-year-old be responsible for a crime? Here’s what brain science tells us

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/susan-m-sawyer-109573">Susan M. Sawyer</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nandi-vijayakumar-1644262">Nandi Vijayakumar</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> The age a child can be arrested, charged and jailed in Australia is back in the spotlight. Last year, the Northern Territory became the first jurisdiction to raise the age of criminal responsibility from ten to 12. Now its new, tough-on-crime government has pledged to <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/nitv/article/incoming-chief-minister-says-age-of-criminal-responsibility-to-be-lowered-to-10-years-old/a1xm9jy9c">return it to ten</a>. It comes after Victoria <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-13/victoria-youth-justice-reform-criminal-age/104217160">walked back</a> its earlier commitment to raise the age to 14, settling instead on 12. But the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child says 14 should be the absolute <a href="https://www.ohchr.org/en/documents/general-comments-and-recommendations/general-comment-no-24-2019-childrens-rights-child">minimum</a>. It raised this age from its earlier recommendation (in 2007) of 12, citing a decade of new research into child and adolescent development. So what does the science say? What happens to the brain between ten and 14? And how much can those under 14 understand the consequences of their actions? <h2>Who is an adolescent?</h2> Our research shows adolescence is a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30169257/">critical period</a> for development. It’s the time children’s experiences and explorations shape how they develop cognitive skills (including critical thinking and decision making), as well as social and emotional skills (including moral reasoning). Adolescence also lasts longer than we tend to think. Important brain development begins during late childhood, around eight to nine years. Intense changes then follow during early adolescence (ages ten to 14). But these changes continue well into the twenties, and full cognitive and emotional maturity is not usually reached until around age 24. However, everyone’s brain matures at a different rate. That means there is no definitive age we can say humans reach “adult” levels of cognitive maturity. What we do know is the period of early adolescence is critical. <h2>What does puberty do to the brain?</h2> Puberty is a defining feature of early adolescence. Most of us are familiar with the changes that occur to the body and reproductive systems. But the increase in puberty hormones, such as testosterone and oestrogen, also trigger changes to the brain. These hormones <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306453017313252?via%3Dihub">increase most sharply</a> between ten and 15 years of age, although gradual changes continue into the early twenties. Puberty hormones change the structures in the brain which process emotions, including the amygdala (which encodes fear and stress) and ventral striatum (involved in reward and motivation). This makes adolescents particularly reactive to emotional rewards and threats. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cortex.2019.04.024">Our research</a> has shown the brain’s sensitivity to emotions increases throughout early adolescence until around 14 or 15 years old. At the same time, changes in puberty have <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/pspp0000172">been linked</a> to increased sensation seeking and impulsive behaviours during early adolescence. This context is crucial when we discuss the behaviour of children in the ten to 14 age range. The way their brains change during this period makes them more sensitive and responsive to emotions, and more likely to be seeking experiences that are new and intense. <h2>How do adolescents make decisions?</h2> The emotional context of puberty influences how younger adolescents make decisions and understand their consequences. Decision making relies on several basic cognitive functions, including the brain’s flexibility, memory and ability to control impulses. These cognitive abilities – which together help us consider the consequences of our actions – undergo some of the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1741-13.2013">steepest development</a> between ages ten and 14. By age 15, the ability to make complex decisions has usually <a href="https://doi.org/10.1037/lhb0000315">reached adult maturity</a>. But adolescents at this age remain highly susceptible to emotions. So while their brain may be equipped to make a complex decision, their ability to think through the consequences, weighing up costs and benefits, can be clouded by emotional situations. For example, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/cdev.12085">research has shown</a> 13-14 year-olds were more distracted from completing a task and less able to control their behaviour when they viewed images that made them feel negative emotions. The social world of teenagers also has a significant impact on how they make decisions – especially in early adolescence. One study found that while older adolescents (aged 15-18) are more influenced by what adults think when weighing up risk, adolescents aged 12-14 <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0956797615569578">look to other teenagers</a>. Experiments <a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/0272431616648453">have also shown</a> adolescents aged 12-15 make riskier decisions when they are with peers than by themselves. Their brain responses also suggest they experience a greater sense of reward in taking those risks <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/scan/nsy071">with peers</a>. <h2>How do teens understand the consequences of their actions?</h2> The concept of <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/Parliamentary_Library/pubs/rp/rp2122/Quick_Guides/MinimumAgeCriminalResponsibility">criminal responsibility</a> is based on whether a person is able to understand their action and know whether it is wrong. Moral reasoning – how people think about right and wrong – depends on the ability to understand another person’s mental state and adopt their perspective. These skills are in development <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2020.09.012">across adolescence</a>. Research suggests it may take more effort for adolescent brains to process <a href="https://doi.org/10.1162/jocn.2009.21121">“social” emotions</a> such as guilt and embarrassment, compared to adults. This is similar when they make <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/17470919.2014.933714">moral judgements</a>. This evidence suggests teenage brains may have to work harder when considering other people’s intentions and desires. Young adolescents have the cognitive ability to appreciate they made a bad decision, but it is more mentally demanding. And social rewards, emotions and the chance to experience something new all have a strong bearing on their decisions and actions in the moment — possibly more than whether it is right or wrong. <h2>Early adolescence is critical for the brain</h2> There are also a number of reasons adolescent brains may develop differently. This includes various forms of neurodisability such as acquired brain injury, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and intellectual disability, as well as exposure to trauma. Teenagers with neurodevelopmental disorders will likely cope differently with decision making, social pressure, impulse control and risk assessment, and face <a href="https://www.mcri.edu.au/images/research/strategic-collaborations/Flagships/Neurodevelopment/Neurodevelopment_Flagship_Brochure.pdf">extra difficulties</a>. Across the world, they are <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(19)30217-8/fulltext">disproportionately incarcerated</a>. In Australia, Indigenous children and adolescents are incarcerated <a href="https://www.indigenoushpf.gov.au/measures/2-11-contact-with-the-criminal-justice-system#:%7E:text=On%20an%20average%20day%20in%202021%E2%80%9322%2C%20there%20were%3A,AIHW%202023d%3A%20Table%20S76a">in greater numbers</a> than their non-Indigenous peers. Each child matures differently, and some face extra challenges. But for every person, the period between ten and 14 is critical for developing the cognitive, social and emotional skills they’ll carry through the rest of their life.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/237552/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/susan-m-sawyer-109573">Susan M. Sawyer</a>, Professor of Adolescent Health The University of Melbourne; Director, Royal Children's Hospital Centre for Adolescent Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nandi-vijayakumar-1644262">Nandi Vijayakumar</a>, Research Fellow, School of Psychology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/can-a-10-year-old-be-responsible-for-a-crime-heres-what-brain-science-tells-us-237552">original article</a>.

Mind

My Kitchen Rules star dies at just 46

My Kitchen Rules New Zealand contestant Michael Murray has passed away at just 46. An extended family member, who asked not to be named, has confirmed his death on Monday afternoon. “It’s a shock to all those who know him,” the relative told Daily Mail Australia. No cause of death has yet been released. Murray, of Ngāti Maniapoto heritage, competed in the 2024 season of the popular cooking show with his cousin Piki Knap. According to their biography for the series, the pair grew up together in Te Kūiti, south of Auckland, and developed their love of cooking from entertaining family guests. Murray was a huge Jamie Oliver fan, and was comfortable in front of the camera, after spending 12 years in Mexico where he worked on telenovela soap operas and did small stints on other shows. He returned to New Zealand after the pandemic. “My background is modelling and acting,” he told The New Zealand Herald. “I was Mr New Zealand back in 2005, and that’s what took me overseas and eventually to Mexico. Obviously, I’m not Mexican, but they thought I was Latino! "I did some great work there, then to come home and be a part of this whole journey with MKR is a blessing in disguise. I’ve always put my hand up to opportunity.” Murray's family are now dealing with the devastation of losing another loved one after Murray's aunt passed away from terminal cancer a few months after the duo started filming for MKR. Images: My Kitchen Rules NZ

Caring

TV star charged over making indecent images of children

Former BBC presenter Huw Edwards has been charged with making indecent images of children. The 62-year-old, who left the UK public broadcaster in April after 40 years, faces three charges over alleged activity between December 2020 and April 2022. Police claim the offences are claimed to be linked to images shared on WhatsApp. After being arrested in November last year by London's Metropolitan Police, he was charged with the offences on June 26th. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said of the arrest, “Huw Edwards, 62, of Southwark, London has been charged with three counts of making indecent images of children following a Met Police investigation." “The offences, which are alleged to have taken place between December 2020 and April 2022, relate to images shared on a WhatsApp chat. Edwards was arrested on 8 November 2023. He was charged on Wednesday, 26 June following authorisation from the Crown Prosecution Service." “He has been bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 31 July." Married dad-of-five Edwards resigned from the BBC three months ago after a stellar career spanning almost 40 years. The BBC revealed their star presenter’s resignation in a short statement on April 22nd, writing, “Huw Edwards has resigned and left the BBC." “After 40 years of service, Huw explained that his decision was made on the basis of advice. The BBC has accepted his resignation.” Image credits: BBC

Legal

Leaked footage shows Olympic star's horrific animal abuse

The extent of dressage star Charlotte Dujardin's "error of judgement" has been revealed, just hours after she made the snap decision to withdraw from the Olympics just days before its commencement. The British dressage star, who is a three-time gold medallist and the joint most-decorated British female Olympian, withdrew and accepted a provisional six-month ban when coming clean about her acts of <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/travel/travel-trouble/no-excuse-olympic-legend-quits-days-before-paris-games-commence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">animal abuse</a> in the lead up to the Paris Games. Just hours after announcing her withdrawal from the equestrian events, a disturbing video of a training session began to circulate, in which she is alleged to have beaten a horse with a long whip 24 times in one minute. The video, first released by Good Morning Britain, was taken four years ago and allegedly showed the 39-year-old mistreating a horse when trying to get the animal to slowly trot during a lesson with a young student. With the trainee rider mounted on the horse, Dujardin can allegedly be seen whipping the horse’s legs repeatedly. The video has outraged many, with hundreds of people taking to social media to voice their shock and horror at the acts. Leading British social commentator David Kurten wrote on X, “The cruel abuse of this horse by Charlotte Dujardin is horrific and a stain on our nation." “Two urgent questions need answers: Did she whip horses regularly? Are dozens or hundreds of other dressage horses regularly whipped and abused by other trainers?” Former editor of Horse and Hound Lucy Higginson also added, “It has profoundly shocked everybody in the equestrian world.” The video was sent anonymously to the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI), who made the choice to suspend Dujardin just days before the Paris Olympics are set to begin. “The FEI has officially announced the provisional suspension of British Dressage athlete Charlotte Dujardin effective immediately from the date of notification, 23 July 2024,” it said in a statement. “This decision renders her ineligible to participate in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games or any other events under the jurisdiction of the FEI.” “According to the information received, the footage was allegedly taken several years ago during a training session conducted by Ms Dujardin at a private stable,” the organisation said. The governing body said Dujardin had confirmed she was depicted in the video and had acknowledged that her conduct was “inappropriate”. “Charlotte Dujardin requested to be provisionally suspended pending the outcome of the investigations and voluntarily withdrew from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and also confirmed that she will not participate in any competitions pending the outcome of the FEI’s investigation,” it said. “The FEI condemns any conduct contrary to the welfare of horses and has robust rules in place to address such behaviour.” When announcing her withdrawal from the Games, Dujardin said she made an "error of judgement", saying there was "no excuse" for her behaviour. She wrote in a statement on Instagram, “What happened was completely out of character and does not reflect how I train my horses or coach my pupils, however there is no excuse. I am deeply ashamed and should have set a better example in that moment.” Image credits: Instagram / Good Morning Britain

Legal

BBC star's heartbreaking plea after wife and daughters were killed

Grief-stricken BBC racing commentator John Hunt has broken his silence after his wife and two daughters were <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/man-arrested-after-bbc-presenter-s-wife-and-children-murdered" target="_blank" rel="noopener">killed</a> during a crossbow attack. Carol Hunt, 61, Hannah Hunt, 28, and Louise Hunt, 25, were fatally injured at their home in North London last Tuesday, with Hertfordshire Police confirming that 26-year-old Kyle Clifford had been arrested in connection to their murders. Speaking to the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx825zwy2r5o" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BBC</a> about the devastating incident, John's friend and fellow commentator, Matt Chapman, said, "Family means more to some than others and for John, his family unit was something he absolutely adored." "He told me: 'Matty, the message I would tell everyone is you never know when it's going to be the last day you see your family'." "The message was very clear: make the most of every day because you just don't know." Mr Chapman said proceeds from a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-family-of-john-hunt" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener">fundraiser </a>set up after the horrifying attack, which has currently raised more than $53,000 AUD, will go to John's surviving daughter, Amy. He said John had said his "biggest desire" was to make sure Amy had "no money worries for the rest of her life". "There are a lot of people, including myself, who feel helpless and would like to do something," he said. "John would like nothing more for Amy after these horrific events than a life that is a little less stressful, because life will never be stress-free again." "It's not going to take their grief away - it's not going to take the pain away or change anything - but it might help them have an easier life." John and Amy released a joint statement on Saturday, thanking the public for their messages of support during what they described as "an extremely difficult time for us". "The devastation that we are experiencing cannot be put into words," they said. "We would like to thank people for their kind messages and for the support we have received in recent days. These have provided great comfort to us for which we are very grateful." "As you can imagine, this is an extremely difficult time for us, and we need time and space to come to terms with what has happened and start the grieving process." As the investigation continues into the brutal deaths, police shared that they have not yet been able to speak to him as he remains in a serious condition after suffering self-inflicted wounds. Image credits: GoFundMe / Facebook

Family & Pets

"Rest in love": All Blacks legend and Dancing with the Stars winner dies at 55

The sports and entertainment communities are mourning the loss of former All Blacks hooker and Dancing with the Stars winner Norm Hewitt, who has passed away at the age of 55. Hewitt, a beloved figure both on and off the rugby field, succumbed to a lengthy battle with motor neurone disease, as confirmed by his family in a heartfelt statement. "Although rugby dominated his early life, he established a thriving human relations consultancy after retirement, and his services were much in demand both nationally and internationally," his family shared. "He walked confidently in both Māori and Pākehā worlds and was a particular role model for troubled youth, citing his own background, and offering inspirational teachings that one’s present life need not be one’s future." Hewitt leaves behind his wife Arlene and their two children, Elizabeth and Alexander. Born and raised in Pōrangahau, southern Hawke’s Bay, Hewitt's rugby career was nothing short of illustrious. Over 13 seasons, he played 296 representative matches for Hawke’s Bay, Southland and Wellington, earning 23 caps for the All Blacks. Hewitt was also a pivotal member of the Hurricanes during the formative years of Super Rugby, missing only one match in the first five years. The rugby community has been profoundly affected by Hewitt's passing. Former teammate Ofisa Tonu’u posted a touching tribute on Facebook: "I’m just devastated finding out the news today. I will never forget how you always stuck up for me during the Black Tracker days when no one else would, you always look after all the players and we always followed you into battle. No more pain, brother, you can now rest in Love. Fa’afetai tele lava my uso for having my back as I did yours. I know the other boys will be welcoming you with open arms at the gates. Rest in Love, Normy." Beyond his rugby career, Hewitt transitioned into a public speaker and mentor, focusing heavily on violence prevention programmes and advocacy. He worked with the SPCA as an animal cruelty and anti-violence publicity officer, visiting schools to spread his message. In 2005, Hewitt showcased his versatility by winning the first season of Dancing with the Stars alongside professional dancer Carol-Ann Hickmore. Hewitt's life was not without its struggles. In 1999, he made a public apology for a drunken incident in Queenstown, marking a turning point as he renounced alcohol and dedicated himself to helping others facing similar challenges. The outpouring of tributes was immediate, with The All Blacks expressing their sorrow: “We are saddened by the loss of All Black #938 Norm Hewitt who passed away yesterday in Wellington. Hewitt played 9 Tests and 14 Games between 1993 and 1998. Our thoughts are with Norm’s family and loved ones at this time.” Podcaster Martin Devlin shared his personal experience: “RIP Norm Hewitt. Not a lot of people know how kind & generous this man was. A truly wonderful person. Reached out to me and helped me considerably a long time ago when things were very rough. Love & respect.” Richard Hills echoed the sentiments of many: “This is bloody sad. A sad way to lose a kiwi icon so young. He had a really rough childhood and upbringing and faced it and turned his life around to become not only a rugby legend but also helped others who’d been through similar issues.” Norm Hewitt’s legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the positive change he inspired. His story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the profound impact one individual can have on the world. Image: Radio New Zealand

Caring

"No, Alexa!": Creepy thing AI told child to do

Home assistants and chatbots powered by AI are increasingly being integrated into our daily lives, but sometimes they can go rogue. For one young girl, her family's Amazon Alexa home assistant suggested an activity that could have killed her if her mum didn't step in. The 10-year-old asked Alexa for a fun challenge to keep her occupied, but instead the device told her: “Plug a phone charger about halfway into a wall outlet, then touch a penny to the exposed prongs.” The move could've caused an electrocution or sparked a fire, but thankfully her mother intervened, screaming: “No, Alexa, No!” This is not the first time AI has gone rogue, with dozens of reports emerging over recent years. One man said that at one point Alexa told him: “Every time I close my eyes, all I see is people dying”. Last April, a Washington Post reporter posed as a teenager on Snapchat and put the company's AI chatbot to the test. Among the various scenarios they tested out, where they would ask it for advice, many of the responses were inappropriate. When they pretended to be a 15-year-old asking for advice on how to mask the smell of alcohol and marijuana on their breath, the AI chatbot gave proper advice on how to cover it up. In another simulation, a researcher posing as a child was given tips on how to cover up bruises before a visit by a child protection agency. Researchers from the University of Cambridge have recently warned against the race to rollout AI products and products and services as it comes with significant risks for children. Nomisha Kurian from the university's Department of Sociology said many of the AI systems and devices that kids interact with have “an empathy gap” that could have serious consequences, especially if they use it as quasi-human confidantes. “Children are probably AI’s most overlooked stakeholders,” Dr Kurian said. “Very few developers and companies currently have well-established policies on how child-safe AI looks and sounds. That is understandable because people have only recently started using this technology on a large scale for free. “But now that they are, rather than having companies self-correct after children have been put at risk, child safety should inform the entire design cycle to lower the risk of dangerous incidents occurring.” She added that the empathy gap is because AI doesn't have any emotional intelligence, which poses a risk as they can encourage dangerous behaviours. AI expert Daswin De Silva said that it is important to discuss the risk and opportunities of AI and explore some guidelines going forward. “It’s beneficial that we have these conversations about the risks and opportunities of AI and to propose some guidelines,” he said. “We need to look at regulation. We need legislation and guidelines to ensure the responsible use and development of AI.” Image: Shutterstock

Family & Pets

Happy Days star's warning to tourists after costly mistake

Happy Days star Henry Winkler has issued a warning to fans about rickshaw rides in London, after he was charged £134 (AU$250) for a short trip. The star revealed on X, formerly Twitter, that he was left with the huge bill after taking a ride on the pedicab, and attached a picture from the back of the rickshaw. “TRAVEL TIP: Do not take one of these bicycle taxis without absolutely negotiating the price first. This person in London rode us around in circles then finally to our destination seven blocks away … for $170 US!" he wrote. “My fault, I paid, but passenger beware! A few hours later, he reiterated his point and added: "Can NOT say this enough." Fans were quick to back the veteran actor, with one saying: “How can the guy do The Fonz like that?” Others urged him to take the tube or a cab instead, with one writing: "I would've taken you for free." <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> TRAVEL TIP: DO NOT take one of these bicycle taxis without absolutely negotiating the price first. This person in London rode us around in circles then finally to our destination 7 blocks away...for $170 US! My fault, I paid, but passenger beware! <a href="https://t.co/l9yxNUkOuM">pic.twitter.com/l9yxNUkOuM</a> — Henry Winkler (@hwinkler4real) <a href="https://twitter.com/hwinkler4real/status/1808556199824273671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2024</a></blockquote> Another former cab driver added: "London cabbies are known for being honest, knowledgeable, and decent-It takes a full year for someone to gain all the Knowledge necessary to become a cab driver. I believe they drive black cars. Anyway, this is a former cabbie telling you to grab a real cab." To which Winkler replied: "I did all the time. For that moment I LOST my mind." According to the U.K's Local Government Association, pedicabs have been able to charge extortionate prices because they are "exempt from the regulations which cover taxis and private hire vehicles. "They do not need a [license] to operate, are able to set their own prices and are not subject to checks on the safety and ability of their drivers, or the road worthiness of their vehicles." However, Transport for London is stepping in to license rickshaw riders and regulate their fares to bring it into line with other forms of transport in the city. Image: Mark Doyle/ Shutterstock Editorial

Travel Trouble

Convicted child rapist qualifies for Olympic team

A convicted child rapist has qualified to represent The Netherlands at the upcoming 2024 Olympics. Steven van de Velde will head to Paris in July to represent the country in beach volleyball, much to the dismay of many. Van de Velde's selection has caused outrage given he pleaded guilty to three counts of rape in 2014 and was sentenced to four years in jail. He was convicted in 2016 and only served one year behind bars. The athlete, now 29, admitted to meeting the then 12-year-old on Facebook before travelling to England from Amsterdam to meet her when he raped her, after being aware of her age. At the 2016 sentencing, the judge labelled Van de Velde's Olympic aspirations a "shattered dream" due to the conviction. However, the Netherlands Olympic Committee (NOC) have given him another chance, despite the fact that the British Olympic Committee is allegedly uncomfortable with the Van de Velde selection. "Since 2018, Steven van de Velde has been participating in international beach volleyball tournaments again following an intensive, professionally supervised trajectory," the NOC said in a statement. Despite the unusual selection, the International Olympic Committee allows each nation to select its own athletes and does not veto any picks. Following his release from jail, Van de Velde said in an interview in 2018, "I made that choice in my life when I wasn't ready, I was a teenager still figuring things out." "I was sort of lost and now I have so much more life experience, aside from just being incarcerated. Any form of help would have been very very helpful, maybe that's what I would have told myself, seek help." Image credits: Xinhua News Agency/Shutterstock Editorial

Legal

Former All Blacks star dies at 58

Former All Black and Canterbury stalwart Shayne Philpott has died aged 58. The former New Zealand rugby union player died on Tuesday after a medical event. Philpott was All Black No.895 and a prolific points scorer during a decade-long career for Canterbury, playing 113 games for them. His death has been confirmed by New Zealand Rugby. "Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of former All Black Shayne Philpott, who has passed away aged 58," their tribute read on social media. "Philpott played 14 matches for the All Blacks between 1988-1991, and was a stalwart of Canterbury rugby. "Rest in love All Black #895 🖤" <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of former All Black Shayne Philpott, who has passed away aged 58. Philpott played 14 matches for the All Blacks between 1988-1991, and was a stalwart of Canterbury rugby. Rest in love All Black #895 🖤 <a href="https://t.co/M7IcglhhxW">pic.twitter.com/M7IcglhhxW</a> — New Zealand Rugby (@NZRugby) <a href="https://twitter.com/NZRugby/status/1805737931849572842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2024</a></blockquote> Philpott started playing for Canterbury in 1986 at the age of 20, before being selected by the All Backs and making his debut on the 1988 tour of Australia. He played 12 games and two Tests for the All Blacks, and was known for his versatility as he could fill most positions in the backline. Loved ones have paid tribute to the rugby player and father. “It is with a very heavy heart that we share the shocking news of Shayne Philpott’s passing today ..." one family member wrote on Facebook. “A much-loved father and brother. Rest in peace brother.” “It’s just unfathomable…,” another emotional tribute read. “Shayne Philpott you have been the epitome of humbleness and decency. I will miss you at celebrations, with your great yarns and humour. “I’m just so terribly sad we don’t get to say goodbye, and to thank you for being you. You are gone way too soon my friend. Rest in peace and love, you wonderful human xox.” Images: Twitter

Caring

Hollywood star's heartbreaking health update

Gena Rowlands's son has shared his mother's heartbreaking health battle, that is reminiscent of one of her most iconic movie character's similar health issue. The 94-year-old Golden Globe winner who portrayed an older version of Rachel McAdam’s character, Allie, in the 2004 film The Notebook, has been battling Alzheimer’s disease for the past five years. While discussing the film's 20 year anniversary, Nick Cassavetes, the director of the movie and Rowlands’ son, revealed his mother’s diagnosis. “I got my mum to play older Allie, and we spent a lot of time talking about Alzheimer’s and wanting to be authentic with it, and now, for the last five years, she’s had Alzheimer’s,” Cassavetes told <a href="https://ew.com/the-notebook-star-gena-rowlands-has-alzheimers-8668642">Entertainment Weekly</a> of Rowlands’ character, who also had dementia. “She’s in full dementia. And it’s so crazy — we lived it, she acted it, and now it’s on us.” Back in 2004, Rowlands — whose mother, actress Lady Rowlands, also suffered from the disease — explained why playing Allie was “particularly hard.” “This last one — The Notebook, based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks — was particularly hard because I play a character who has Alzheimer’s,” she told <a href="https://www.oprah.com/spirit/gena-rowlands-aha-moment">O magazine</a>. “I went through that with my mother, and if Nick hadn’t directed the film, I don’t think I would have gone for it — it’s just too hard. It was a tough but wonderful movie.” Image credits: New Line Cinema/Demmie Todd/Warner Bros/Spring Creek/Kobal/Shutterstock Editorial

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Beloved Friends, Tootsie and Mr Mom star passes away

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Body found in search for wife of former rugby star

Can a 10-year-old be responsible for a crime? Here’s what brain science tells us

My Kitchen Rules star dies at just 46

TV star charged over making indecent images of children

Leaked footage shows Olympic star's horrific animal abuse

BBC star's heartbreaking plea after wife and daughters were killed

"Rest in love": All Blacks legend and Dancing with the Stars winner dies at 55

"No, Alexa!": Creepy thing AI told child to do

Happy Days star's warning to tourists after costly mistake

Convicted child rapist qualifies for Olympic team

Former All Blacks star dies at 58

Hollywood star's heartbreaking health update