Influential musical artist Afrika Bambaataa died in Pennsylvania on Thursday at the age of 67 after battling cancer.

The Zulu Nation founder, whose real name was Lance Taylor, passed away due to complications from his cancer battle at around 3 a.m. local time, sources told TMZ. 

‘Today, we acknowledge the transition of a foundational architect of Hip Hop culture, Afrika Bambaataa,’ the Hip-Hop Alliance said in a statement on Instagram about the late Planet Rock performer. 

The group, headed by Kurtis Blow, continued, ‘As the founder of the Universal Zulu Nation, Afrika Bambaataa helped shape the early identity of Hip Hop as a global movement rooted in peace, unity, love, and having fun.’

The group acknowledged legal issues the artist-producer encountered in his later years involving allegations of sexual misconduct against multiple young men.

‘At the same time, we recognize that his legacy is complex and has been the subject of serious conversations within our community,’ the group said. 

Influential musical artist Afrika Bambaataa died in Pennsylvania on Thursday at the age of 67 after battling cancer. Pictured in NYC in 1999

The Hip-Hop Alliance added, ‘As an organization committed to truth, accountability, and the preservation of Hip Hop culture, we believe it is important to hold space for all voices while continuing to uplift what empowers and protects the people.’

The group ended its statement in saying, ‘Today, we extend our condolences to all who were impacted by his life, his work, and his presence.

‘Hip Hop was built on truth, and through truth the culture continues to grow, heal, and evolve. Rest in Power Bam.’

In his earlier years, the New York City-born entertainer was a member of a gang called the Black Spades, the outlet reported.

Bambaataa stated throwing South Bronx block parties in the 1970s which eventually took shape as a key backdrop amid the rise of the musical genre.

Bambaataa’s debut single, Zulu Nation Throwdown, was released in 1980, in a reference to his hip hop art collective, the Universal Zulu Nation.

The track paved the way for Bambaataa’s most successful commercial performance with 1982’s Planet Rock.

Bambaataa at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History’s Hip Hop Initiative in 2006 in NYC 

The Zulu Nation founder, whose real name was Lance Taylor, pictured in NYC in 2015 

Bambaataa was also involved in the production of the Artists United Against Apartheid 1985 album Sun City led by musician-actor Steven Van Zandt.

Other notable names involved in the project included late legends such as Miles Davis, Clarence Clemons, and Lou Reed; as well as musical icons such as Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, Peter Gabriel and Bruce Springsteen.

Among the other notable names Bambaataa collaborated with included the late James Brown on the 1984 track Unity; the Sex Pistols’ John Lydon on 1984’s World Destruction; UB40’s 1988 single Reckless; and Leftfield’s 1999 track Afrika Shox, which was on the soundtrack to 2001’s Vanilla Sky.

Prior to the sex abuse allegations, Cornell University of the Ivy League awarded Bambaataa with a three-year stint as a visiting scholar from 2012-2015, citing his expertise in hip hop. 

Bambaataa faced significant legal difficulties over the last decade of his life, as multiple men accused him of sexual abuse during the 1980s and 1990s.

Political activist Ronald Savage said in 2016 that Bambaataa had molested him when he was 15 in 1980, leading to sexual misconduct accusations from three more men.

Later in the month, the Universal Zulu Nation distanced itself from Bambaataa – who resigned from his executive position on May 6, 2016. 

The organization also parted ways with ‘all accused parties and those accused of covering up the current allegations of child molestation.’ 

Bambaataa faced legal difficulties over the last decade of his life, as multiple men accused him of sexual abuse during the 1980s and 1990s 

Bambaataa (pictured in 2014 in NYC) denied allegations of sex abuse in a 2016 interview 

Last year,  a New York court ordered Bambaataa to settle financially in a civil case with a man who accused him of sex trafficking him during the 1990s. Pictured 2012 

In a statement provided to Rolling Stone in April of 2016, Bambaataa described the allegations as ‘baseless’ and ‘a cowardly attempt to tarnish my reputation and legacy in hip hop at this time.

‘This negligent attack on my character will not stop me from continuing my battle and standing up against the violence in our communities, the violence in the nation and the violence worldwide.’

Bambaataa told Fox 5 News in 2016 in response to the allegations, ‘I never abused nobody – you know, it just sounds crazy for people to say that, to hear: “You abused me.”

‘You know all my people back then, you know the hundreds of people that been around me. If something like that happened, why you never went to none of them?’

Last year, a New York court ordered him to settle financially in a civil case with a man who accused Bambaataa of sex trafficking him during the 1990s, TMZ reported. 

A default judgement was issued after Bambaataa missed the hearing in the matter. 

Busted star James Bourne has revealed he is having ‘major surgery’ to ‘extend his life’ as he shared a worrying health update six months after quitting the band’s tour.

James, 42, was forced to pull out of the Busted vs McFly tour in September, just a day before it kicked off in Birmingham, with his bandmates describing him as ‘really f***ing sick’.

Now in a concerning update, James has shared that he is preparing to have ‘major surgery to extend my life’ – but insisted ‘there is hope’.

Taking to his Instagram Story on Saturday, James, who rose to fame with his bandmates Charlie Simpson and Matt Willis in 2000, wrote: ‘I realised it’s been about six months since I posted last. 

‘I have a plan in place to have major surgery that should extend my life and hopefully make me well enough to come back to what I love the most which is touring and making music. 

‘It really sucks to be out of the game. But there is hope!’

Busted star James Bourne has revealed he is having ‘major surgery’ to ‘extend his life’ as he shares worrying health update six months after quitting the band’s tour (Pictured in August)

James, 42, was forced to pull out of the Busted vs McFly tour in September, just a day before it kicked off in Birmingham, with his bandmates describing him as ‘really f***ing sick’

As Busted appeared on stage for their first show of the tour last month, Matt Willis said: ‘Okay, you may have noticed our best friend is not here tonight. 

‘James Bourne is really f***ing sick and we love him and we miss him. 

‘This is the first show we’ve ever played without him and it’s really. But we’re going do the best we can. Health is wealth.’

James announced in a statement that he had to quit the tour due to health reasons.

He wrote on Instagram: ‘The VS tour kicks off tomorrow night in Birmingham and as excited as l’ve been all year for this tour to begin.

‘I’m really sorry to say that over the last 8 days it has become clear that I am not in good enough health to play these shows 🙁 

‘There’s a lot of information I still don’t have about my condition but my bandmates, management and I are unanimous in deciding that I should focus on the medical stuff for now.

‘I really hope I can be in a position to come back further down the line. It’s still going to be an amazing show and I will miss being there! See you all as soon as possible.’ 

Busted and McFly reunited for a head-to-head joint tour throughout September, October and November.

Busted’s James, Charlie and Matt, said at the time of the announcement: ‘The whole tour is to find out who’s a better band. Fans can decide. 

‘They can come and support their band and they might change their mind. It’s going to be a fight to the death.’ 

Taking to Instagram on Saturday, James wrote: ‘I realised it’s been about six months since I posted last’

James (pictured) announced in a statement that he had to quit the tour due to mystery health reasons

Announcing he had quit the tour in September, James wrote on Instagram: ‘The VS tour kicks off tomorrow night in Birmingham and as excited as l’ve been all year for this tour to begin’

Matt continued: ‘It has been a long time coming, this tour. Fans have wanted this. There’s a massive crossover in the fanbases but secretly I think everyone likes Busted more.’ 

Meanwhile McFly is made up of Tom Fletcher, Danny Jones, Harry Judd and Dougie Poynter.

Charlie, who had hits including Crashed The Wedding and You Said No with Busted, explained: ‘[McBusted] was a different thing. This is very much, we’re doing it as two different bands.

‘The way we’ve set up the show is different to a normal show. It’s not a co-headline tour and there are going to be some surprises along the way which people genuinely won’t have seen before.’

McFly achieved 18 consecutive UK top 20 singles, seven of which peaked at number one in the UK Singles Chart. They also won the 2005 Brit Award for Best British Pop Act.

Meanwhile, Busted from Southend-on-Sea, enjoyed four UK number one singles, won two Brit Awards, and sold over five million records worldwide.

In 2013, the two bands combined to become a six-piece pop-punk supergroup called McBusted, albeit without lead vocalist and guitarist Charlie, who wanted to focus on his rock band Fightstar and a solo career. 

“Sabrina the Teenage Witch” alum Nate Richert had a rare reunion with his TV co-stars.

The ’90s heartthrob, who portrayed Harvey Kinkle, snapped a photo with his on-screen love interest, Melissa Joan Hart, and Beth Broderick, per an Instagram photo on Tuesday.

Kinkle, 47, smirked while posing alongside the duo in a hat and a button-up.

“When the magic fam comes together!” Hart, who played the role of Sabrina Spellman, captioned the snap.

While Broderick, who took on the role of Sabrina’s aunt Zelda Spellman, was in attendance, actress Caroline Rhea, who played Sabrina’s other aunt Hilda Spellman, wasn’t.

Fans gushed over the reunion, with one writing, “OMG this so ICONIC 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍.”

“Harvey, Sabrina, and Aunt Zelda!! ❤️❤️❤️,” another wrote.

The castmates have seemingly kept close ties and were last publicly seen together at dinner in March 2024.

That same month, the trio came together to attend ’90s Con.

“Sabrina the Teenage Witch” aired for seven seasons from 1996 to 2003.

Richert, meanwhile, stepped away from the limelight after the hit series concluded.

The former actor has recently kept busy with his “The Nate and Curtis Podcast” alongside his co-host, Curtis Andersen. The latter, who portrayed Gordie, was a recurring character in the series.

According to the Daily Mail, Richert revealed in 2018 that he was juggling several jobs, including as a janitor.

“I’m extremely lucky to have had any success at all, let alone solid work in film and TV for six years (20 years ago),” he previously wrote on X. “I’m currently a maintenance man, a janitor, a carpenter and do whatever random jobs I can get to pay the bills.”

Additionally, Richert posts sketch comedy clips on social media.

Kylie Jenner delighted her Instagram followers on Monday when she shared several new images from her spring break vacation.

The 28-year-old makeup mogul was in a tropical location that she called ‘heaven’ on Instagram.

Also seen in the same idyllic location was her boyfriend Timothee Chalamet who made his own Instagram post. He went shirt-free with dark trunks as he shared a photo of their yacht.

The sister of Kendall Jenner wore a very tiny string bikini that looked like it was made from lingerie as it had neon green lace over pale gray colored satin.

The top was a traditional triangle design and the bottoms had cute little ties on the sides. Jenner modeled the sexy swimsuit well as she sat on the shore and also slipped into the water to cool down.

The Khy designer also wore a gold belly chain and a matching necklace as she added small earrings and a bangle bracelet.

Kylie Jenner delighted her Instagram followers on Monday when she shared several new images from her spring break vacation

The 28-year-old makeup mogul was in a tropical location that she called ‘heaven’ on Instagram

Also seen was her boyfriend Timothee Chalamet who made his own Instagram post from the same idyllic coastal location

Jenner has been in this part of the world before as she said this is her favorite place to vacation.

The billionaire entrepreneur was also seen relaxing on a yacht and she was on the beach reading the book The Guest by Emma Cline.

And she enjoyed a bowl of alphabet cereal with small marshmallow treats while cheating on her diet. 

And the daughter of Kris Jenner was seen with a face mask on as she was in bed with a bottle of water on the nightstand.

Then there was a photo that surely will make all her female fans drool: Jenner showed off a yellow Hermes Birkin bag and a colorful Louis Vuitton purse.

It is not known if Chalamet was with her on the exotic vacation, but her sister Kendall appeared to be as she also shared photos to Instagram on Monday from a similar location. 

The Jenner sisters are very close and often go on vacation together without their other sisters Kim and Khloe Kardashian, who appear to still be in Tokyo with their children.

Kourtney Kardashian has not spent as much time with her sisters ever since she wed Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and had child Rocky Thirteen with him. 

 He went shirt-free with dark trunks as he ran on the shore

The Oscar nominee shot the camera a knowing glance as he wore a diamond-studded necklace

The sister of Kendall Jenner wore a very tiny string bikini

The suit looked like it was made from lingerie as it had neon green lace over pale gray colored satin for a boudoir vibe

The top was a traditional triangle design and the bottoms had cute little ties on the sides

Her toes were a pale, shimmering pink color that appeared iridescent

At one point she sunbathed on her yacht

 Then there was a photo that surely will make all her female fans drool: Jenner showed off a yellow Hermes Birkin bag and a colorful Louis Vuitton purse

And she enjoyed a bowl of kids’ alphabet cereal with small marshmallow treats while cheating on her diet as she worked on her laptop

Earlier this month it was reported that Jenner is reportedly ‘always low-key bragging’ about her boyfriend Chalamet to her loved ones.

The media personality adores the 30-year-old actor, with whom she has been in a relationship since 2023.

A source told Us Weekly: ‘Kylie is really proud of him and is always low-key bragging about him to her friends and family.

‘She is super supportive of his career and feels it’s very important. Even though it overlaps with her world a bit, going to premieres and awards shows still feels [like] new territory for her, and she can get a little shy in that setting.’

And the Kylie Cosmetics founder will always be there for the Wonka star.

The source added: ‘Kylie is really in awe of how respected he is by his peers and loves showing up for him. She’s always hyping him up and had the best time being by his side at the Oscars. He says she calms his nerves, and he equally loves having her with him.’

In January, Timothee scooped up the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Actor for his role as Marty Mauser in Marty Supreme – a 1950s-set ping-pong drama loosely based on the real-life table tennis great Marty Reisman’s journey to becoming a champion in table tennis.

And he used a part of his acceptance speech to publicly show his love for Kylie – who dated Timothee following her split from 34-year-old rapper Travis Scott in January 2023.

Jenner modeled the sexy swimsuit well as she sat on the shore and also slipped into the water to cool down

In this image, the budding actress piled her black hair up on her head

Jenner also wore a gold belly chain and a matching necklace as she added small earrings and a bangle bracelet

Timothee thanked his ‘partner of three years’, adding: ‘Thank you for our foundation. I love you.

‘I couldn’t do this without you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.’

Kylie rested her chin on her folded hands as she mouthed back: ‘I love you.’

Referencing that moment in her interview with Vanity Fair magazine for the Spring 2026 issue, the interviewer asked Kylie: ‘Is it fun to be shouted out onstage?’

The interviewer then noted that it was the ‘only time’ in their conversation that The Kardashians cast member got ‘flustered, but in the most charming way possible’.

On Monday Kylie’s sister Kendall also posed in a bikini while in a tropical location

They asked again: ‘Is it fun?’

Blushing, Kylie replied: ‘Of course.’

The reality TV star has daughter Stormi, eight, and son Aire, four, with Travis, and Kylie has not ruled out having more children someday.

Also in the Vanity Fair magazine interview, she said: ‘In the last years of my 20s, I want to focus on just me, my businesses, my work, travelling with my kids, enjoying my kids, and then…

‘I do want to have more kids….’

Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

England Test captain Ben Stokes has admitted that the past three months have been the most challenging period of his captaincy, following England’s disappointing 4-1 defeat in the Ashes in Australia.Despite the setback, Stokes has reaffirmed his commitment to leading the team forward alongside head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key, all of whom have retained the backing of the England and Wales Cricket Board.In an emotional Instagram post, Stokes described the mental and emotional toll of leading England through a difficult Ashes campaign.”Being England captain is the greatest honour a player can be given and I do not take it for granted. It has its highs and it has its lows, it makes you want to smile it makes you want to cry. It completely and utterly consumes you and feels like it’s the only thing in your life at times. The last 3 months has without a doubt been the hardest period of my captaincy journey, it’s tested me in so many different ways and I’m sure every other captain has gone through this as well,” Stokes said.Stokes emphasised that the leadership group remains united and determined to improve, ”Baz,Rob and myself have the passion and desire to take this team forward, we are going to give you everything we have, we know we made mistakes along the way and we have learnt from those mistakes, you learn more from failure than success. I have learnt a lot about myself but the most important thing that I want the fans to know is that….” he added.Ben stokes gives a strong and bold message to the cricket fans after his captaincy was questioned post 4-1 ashes loss. Stokes said,” I F*****G love cricket, I F*****G love this team, I F*****G love being England captain and I have got so much more to give to this role and I’m so happy that I get to do it with Baz and Rob.””We all appreciate every single person who supports us. We do what we do for many reasons but one of those reasons is to bring our supporters and fans happiness and and a sense of pride and we will aim to do those things as much as we can in the future, See you all in June for the start of the Test Match summer” he concluded on Instagram.

Why did England struggled in the Ashes Series

England’s defeat in The Ashes was more than just a loss, it was a systemic failure. Poor preparation, including the lack of meaningful warm-up matches, left the team underprepared for Australian conditions. The aggressive “Bazball” approach, once hailed as revolutionary, unravelled quickly after a heavy defeat in Perth, leaving England without a fallback plan.The report quoted by Telegraph sports was the cultural issues within the dressing room which says that, ” There were players in the Ashes who felt McCullum was naturally drawn to those like him who enjoy a beer, a vape and a round of golf. Unintentionally it created a clique that became more apparent under the stress of an Ashes loss and there were players who felt a non-serious environment had cost them the opportunity of a lifetime in Australia.” Since then, a midnight curfew has been introduced, while the ECB is looking to appoint a new national selector after Luke Wright stepped down for family reasons.

Kelly Osbourne has split from her fiancé Sid Wilson as she continues to struggle with the death of her father, Ozzy Osbourne, the Daily Mail can reveal. 

The couple have quietly ended their engagement just seven months after the Slipknot star, 49, proposed to Kelly at her late father’s final concert with Black Sabbath in Birmingham last July.

Kelly, 41, who first met her now former partner 27 years ago, shares a three-year-old son, Sidney, with the musician. 

Sources close to the star told the Daily Mail she has endured a ‘difficult’ month, coping with the separation while continuing to focus on being the best mother she can be to their son, who is named after his musician father.

A source revealed: ‘Kelly and Sid have decided to call off their engagement.

‘Kelly has been struggling following the loss of her father. The grieving process has been incredibly difficult, and she’s been doing everything she can to cope.

Kelly Osbourne has split from her fiancé Sid Wilson as she continues to struggle with the death of her father, Ozzy Osbourne (pictured July 2025)

‘In truth, she and Sid have been facing challenges in their relationship for some time, and things were not as they appeared.

‘They tried to make it work, particularly for the sake of their child, but ultimately decided that separating is the best path forward.

‘Kelly has endured a great deal over the past year. Despite everything, she remains sober and is now focusing on herself and her role as a mother moving ahead.’

The star was first introduced to Sid when Slipknot toured with Ozzfest, the music festival founded by her parents.

On Valentine’s Day 2022, she shared a post of the couple passionately kissing, captioned: ‘After 23 years of friendship, I can’t believe where we have ended up. You are my best friend, my soulmate, and I am so deeply in love with you, Sidney George Wilson.’

They welcomed their son, Sid, later that year, and the family had been living together on a farm in Iowa.

Kelly was last pictured with Sid at the Grammy Awards in February and, since then, has only made public appearances with friends or her mother, Sharon.

He proposed to Kelly backstage at the Black Sabbath show, in front of her entire family, including Ozzy, Sharon, and her brother Jack, presenting her with a huge diamond ring. Kelly later said she had ‘no clue’ the moment was coming. 

The TV personality, who first met her now-former partner 27 years ago, shares a three-year-old son, Sidney, with the musician

Following the BRITs in March, where Ozzy was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award, Kelly addressed online trolls on Instagram after they criticised her slim appearance.

Since her father’s passing, Kelly has faced cruel trolling online, alongside concern from fans over her ‘thin’ and ‘fragile’ frame and overall wellbeing.

She explained that she was going through the ‘hardest’ time of her life and had felt ‘dehumanised’ by those who had been kicking her while she was down.

At the beginning of the month, Kelly hinted at the split in an Instagram post, writing: ‘There is a special kind of cruelty in hurting someone who is already going through something deeply painful.

‘Being kicked while I’m down, having my pain questioned, my struggles turned into gossip, and being abandoned when I need love and support the most – none of this reflects strength. It only shows a lack of compassion and character.

‘I am going through one of the hardest periods of my life. I shouldn’t have to defend myself, but I also won’t allow myself to be dehumanised like this.’

Kelly put on a brave face as she attended pop star Lily Allen’s show at the London Palladium on Saturday, followed by a celebratory party at the Broadwick Soho Hotel.

She was joined by Los Angeles-based barber Kinicki, and the pair posed for a series of photos, including one showing Kelly hugging her friend, who wore a shirt, tie, and denim jacket.

Insiders say the pair spent the entire evening together, as Kelly finally had the chance to let her hair down following a difficult start to the year. 

On Instagram, Kinicki says that they use they/them pronouns and describes themselves as a ‘queer barber.’ A month earlier, in February, Kelly and Kinicki got matching crescent moon and tooth tattoos on their hands.

Kelly was seen attending the London afterparty for Lily Allen’s West End show West End Girl on Saturday night at the Broadwick Soho Hotel, where she posed alongside close friend Kinicki 

In February, Kelly and Kinicki got matching crescent moon and tooth tattoos on their hands 

Ozzy passed away on July 25 last year, aged 76, after battling serious health issues for several years.

The Black Sabbath singer officially died of a heart attack, though he also suffered from coronary artery disease and Parkinson’s disease. 

His death came weeks after his final ever concert in his hometown of Birmingham on July 5, where he reunited with his Black Sabbath bandmates for the first time in two decades.

The funeral was held on July 30, once again in Birmingham, with thousands of fans lining the streets to pay their respects. 

Ozzy’s wife, Sharon, joined Kelly and her siblings, Aimée and Jack, for the emotional tribute ahead of a private family service.

Kelly and her father were known for their incredibly close bond. The late rocker even jokingly called Kelly his ‘favourite’ child, saying they were ‘two peas in a pod.’ The pair famously released a duet, Changes, in 2003, which charted at number one.

Kelly was last pictured with Sid at the Grammy Awards in February and, since then, has only made public appearances with friends or her mother, Sharon (pictured February)

Following his passing, Kelly described Ozzy as her ‘best friend’ in a tribute on Instagram, writing: ‘I feel unhappy, I am so sad. I lost the best friend I ever had,’ quoting lyrics from Changes.

Speaking about his death in November, Kelly shared the ‘one resentment’ she carried from their final days together. 

She recalled: ‘I always heard Dad going down the stairs in the morning. The first thing I always said to him was, “Morning, Dada, I love you”. And I’d call it out, and he’d say, “I love you more” and walk down the stairs. And on the morning that he passed, I didn’t say it.’

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By GERAINT LLEWELLYN, SHOWBUSINESS REPORTER

Published: 19:49 EDT, 22 March 2026 | Updated: 01:12 EDT, 23 March 2026

This iconic rocker cut a very unlikely figure as he was spotted on a low key supermarket shop with longtime girlfriend Meegan Hodges this week. 

Guns N’ Roses’ Slash, 60, real name Saul Hudson, swapped his guitar for a trolley as he shielded his famous curly locks beneath a backwards baseball cap.

He may have been picking up essentials, but the star – whose work in the classic song Sweet Child o’ Mine was named the great guitar riff ever by a 2022 poll – was still as cool as ever in a black leather motorcycle jacket and jeans.

Meanwhile former model Megan, 57, who has been dating the musician on and off for over a decade, wore a knitted poncho and beanie.

Slash previously admitted that Guns N’ Roses would have been ‘canceled’ if they came up during the age of the Internet.

In his book The Collection: Slash, he wrote: ‘We would not have fared well in this environment, for sure… on so many different levels,’ Slash began.

This iconic rocker cut a very unlikely figure as he was spotted on a low key supermarket shop with longtime girlfriend Meegan Hodges this week

‘But I mean, a lot of things from back then would not be what you consider acceptable at this moment in time,’ he added.

‘I’m just glad that we didn’t have the internet back then! It would’ve been a different world altogether…. most of everything that [Guns N’ Roses] did would’ve gotten us canceled in this day and age,’ 

The English-born guitarist is hardly any stranger to risky behaviour however.

A former heroin addict, in 2001 he was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a form of congestive heart failure caused by years of alcohol and drug abuse.

Despite being given between six days and six weeks to live, he survived through physical therapy and the implantation of a defibrillator, and has been clean and sober since 2006. 

It was none other than Guns N’ Roses’ Slash (pictured on stage 2024)

Pictured with frontman Axl Rose (L) in 1991

In 2024 Meegan’s daughter Lucy-Bleu Knight tragically died aged 25, with Los Angeles County’s medical examiner saying that her cause of death was hydrogen sulfide toxicity, and that the ‘manner of death is suicide.’

Officials said that ‘Knight was found unresponsive in a private residence on July 19 by law enforcement conducting a welfare check,’ and that she was pronounced dead at 3 p.m. local time.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website said that Hydrogen sulfide is ‘a colorless, flammable, highly toxic gas’ and that symptoms of acute exposure ‘include nausea, headaches, delirium, disturbed equilibrium, tremors, convulsions, and skin and eye irritation.’ 

The CDC said that ‘inhalation of high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can produce extremely rapid unconsciousness and death.’

The musical stalwart announced his beloved stepdaughter’s death in a heartbreaking Instagram statement.

‘My heart is permanently fractured,’ Slash said in an emotional July 27 post on Instagram, sharing a poignant selfie of Lucy-Bleu in which he detailed his grief. ‘I will never ever stop missing you & remembering what a beacon of happiness, laughter, creativity & beauty you have always been … & still are.’

He continued: ‘The brightest light in the lives of so many that loved you so much. I find solace in the hope that you are at peace now. I will love you eternally.’

Karen Hauer broke down in tears as she confirmed she has quit Strictly following rumours she had been axed in the mass cull.

The Venezuelan–American dancer, 43, has been a professional on the show for 14 years – making her Strictly’s longest ever running female dancer.

But it was rumoured earlier this month that she was included in a group of dancers sensationally axed as part of a major overhaul of the show’s lineup.

Nadiya Bychkova, 36, Michelle Tsiakkas, 30, Luba Mushtuk, 36, and Gorka Márquez, 35, were all axed from the series, with sources claiming the Strictly pros are already aware of their fate.

But taking to Instagram on Saturday, Karen shared an emotional video where she revealed she was choosing to step away from the show to focus on other ventures. 

She began to cry as she recalled her pride at ‘a young girl from the Bronx’ going on to be the show’s longest serving female professional. 

Karen Hauer broke down in tears as she confirmed she has quit Strictly following rumours she had been axed in the mass cull

The BBC later released a statement, saying: ‘We would like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to Karen Hauer for her incredible contribution’

In the video, Karen said: ‘Hey everyone, I’ve got something to tell you. It’s a tough one, but here we go. After 14 years on Strictly Come Dancing, I’ve decided this is the right time for me to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas that I’m passionate about.

‘Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher, but as a human being. I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and brilliant celebrity partners who have become close friends and people I admire so much. 

‘None of this would have been possible without the amazing fans. You’ve been there since day one, when I just moved to the UK and had no idea what I was getting myself into. I’m so grateful you watched me grow over the years and witnessed all of my different hair styles. 

‘I’m going to miss everyone who makes the show possible, from hair, makeup, wardrobe, the crew behind the cameras, lighting, production and staging, the runners the arch and the band, the singers and the producers and welfare team who take such good care of us. It’s an incredible machine powered by brilliant people. 

‘To my fellow professional dancers, who I adore. I will always be cheering you on. You truly are the best in the business. I’ll never forget joining the show 14 years ago with Sir Bruce Forsyth and Len Goodman and learning from such incredible legends along the way.

‘And to the brilliant Tess and Chloe, maybe now we can finally be ladies who lunch in the autumn. 

‘I’ll even miss standing in front of the judges. Can you believe that smiling politely while sometimes secretly disagreeing, it’s been an honor to share the ballroom with them.

‘And last but not least, thank you to my friends and family who have supported me through it all. I love you all. Now this isn’t a goodbye, it’s simply see you later, because I will never stop dancing. 

The Venezuelan–American dancer, 43, has been a professional on the show for 14 years – making her Strictly’s longest ever running female dancer

Taking to Instagram on Saturday, Karen shared an emotional video where she revealed she was choosing to step away from the show to focus on other ventures

Zoe Ball, one of the favourites to take over the Strictly hosting job after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s departure, was quick to comment on Karen’s announcement’

Fellow Strictly professional Johannes Radebe gushed over his friend, writing: ‘There’s no one like you K ♥️ we love you mamasita!’

Judge Shirley Ballas shared love hearts while Motsi Mabuse said: ‘Love you dear all the best ❤️❤️❤️’

Meanwhile former Strictly celebrity Dr Punam Krishan said: ‘Oh Karen, love you so much. Excited for your next chapter ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️’

Former Strictly winner Ore Oduba wrote: ‘Oh Karen, congratulations for it ALL ❤️’

EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal, who starred on last year’s Strictly, said: ‘Big love, beautiful woman. Here’s to your next chapter ❤️’

Karen’s last celebrity partner, Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, commented: ‘A true inspiration! Purely unique!’

‘Who would have thought that a young girl from the Bronx… would end up becoming the longest serving female professional dancer on a British TV institution? Strictly will always be in my heart. I love you all.’

The BBC later released a statement, saying: ‘We would like to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to Karen Hauer for her incredible contribution to Strictly Come Dancing over the last 14 years. 

‘As the longest-serving female professional dancer in the history of the show, Karen has given so much of herself and her time to the programme, and we are extremely grateful for the passion, creativity and dedication she has brought to every single performance.

‘She has captivated audiences with her talent, warmth and genuine love of dance and has been responsible for some of the most iconic partnerships and joyous routines the Strictly dance floor has ever seen.

‘We thank her for all these memorable moments and for her incredible work ethic. Her professionalism and sense of humour shine through everything she achieves and we can’t wait to see where her next chapter takes her – Sarah James, Executive Producer.’ 

Zoe Ball, one of the favourites to take over the Strictly hosting job after Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s departure, was quick to comment on Karen’s announcement. 

She said: ‘You’re one awesome woman Karen. so many incredible memories of your dances with brilliant partners Dave M, Jeremy V, Charles V and Harry and more. 

‘All your pro dances wow. Exciting adventures ahead. Love you Hotlips Hauer ❤️.’ 

Fellow Strictly professional Johannes Radebe gushed over his friend, writing: ‘There’s no one like you K ♥️ we love you mamasita!’ 

Judge Shirley Ballas shared love hearts while Motsi Mabuse said: ‘Love you dear all the best ❤️❤️❤️.’ 

Meanwhile former Strictly celebrity Dr Punam Krishan said: ‘Oh Karen, love you so much. Excited for your next chapter ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.’

The BBC dance competition recently underwent a major reshuffle, with five familiar faces leaving the series in what fans have described as a ‘bloodbath’

Karen’s last celebrity partner on the series was Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (Pictured), while the year before she danced with former footballer Paul Merson

Former Strictly winner Ore Oduba wrote: ‘Oh Karen, congratulations for it ALL ❤️.’ 

EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal, who starred on last year’s Strictly, said: ‘Big love, beautiful woman. Here’s to your next chapter ❤️.’ 

Karen’s last celebrity partner on the series was Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who commented: ‘A true inspiration! Purely unique! Thank you for everything! Cant wait for the next chapter ❤️.’

Meanwhile the year before she danced with former footballer Paul Merson and, in 2023, comedian Eddie Kadi.

She showcased her versatility as a choreographer by performing with comic Jayde Adams in 2022, following on from Katya Jones, who was the first Strictly female pro to perform in a same-sex pairing.

The BBC dance competition recently underwent a major reshuffle, with several familiar faces leaving the series in what fans have described as a ‘bloodbath’.

Those exiting the ballroom include Karen, Gorka Márquez, Nadiya Bychkova, Luba Mushtuk and Michelle Tsiakkas, marking one of the biggest cast shake-ups in recent years.

Following the news, dancer Aljaž Skorjanec shared his thoughts on the changes for the first time and spoke about what the shake-up could mean for his own role.

Speaking to the Mirror, he said: ‘It’s always sad to see someone go, but it’s equally exciting to see new faces, fresh energy, and people who bring something different.’

Sharing if he plans to return this year, Aljaz said: ‘They don’t announce the names of dancers returning until it’s confirmed. 

‘Whatever the Strictly bosses do, it’s in the interest of the show, and we always support their decisions.’ 

Jesy Nelson has revealed her twin daughters have been fitted with leg splints as she shared an emotional update on their health battle on Thursday.

The Little Mix star, 34, welcomed her daughters Ocean and Story in May with her ex-fiancé, Zion Foster, but in January revealed that both babies had been diagnosed with genetic neuromuscular disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 (SMA1).

The condition weakens the muscles by affecting the motor nerve cells in the spinal cord, and Type 1 is the most common and severe form, with life expectancy estimated at less than two years without medical intervention.

Since sharing her twins’ health battle, Jesy has openly documented the challenges of managing their diagnosis on social media, and in a new Instagram video, she revealed they will be using leg splints to flatten out their ‘pointed’ feet.

She told her followers that she was ‘sad’ to see her babies would need the splints, as it was another ‘reminder’ of their health struggles they were facing.

Jesy said: ‘So today, I had to go pick up the girls’ splints because their feet are pointing, and they need to be flattened out. It made me really sad.’

Jesy Nelson has revealed her twin daughters have been fitted with leg splints as she shared an emotional update on their health battle on Thursday

The Little Mix star revealed in January her babies Ocean and Story had been diagnosed with genetic neuromuscular disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 (SMA1)

The star then showed the tiny leg splints her daughters would be wearing, with Story’s covered in hearts while Ocean’s had butterflies.

‘Have you ever seen anything cuter in your life?’ Jesy added as she held up the baby-sized splints for the camera, before sadly saying: ‘Made me sad though, because it’s just another reminder.’

Despite her nine-month-old daughters’ devastating prognosis that they may not live beyond the age of two, Jesy last month explained that despite the tragic news she has decided to keep filming her Prime Video series as she fights to ‘make a change’.

In a Q&A, she said: ‘I just hope people continue to watch the next part of the journey. When the girls got their diagnosis, we decided that we wanted to continue filming.

‘As hard as it was, we were like, “You know what? There’s a reason you guys are here, and we’ve got to make the best out of this situation”.’

Jesy continued: ‘I’m sure you guys are aware, like, I’m trying to get it [SMA] made part of the heel prick test. That’s my main goal right now, as well as looking after my beautiful girls.

‘I haven’t even seen it back yet, but I already know it’s going to be tough. But I’m just so happy that we’ve been able to document everything, because I really believe that we’re going to make a change. Like, I feel it.

‘I love how dedicated people are to spreading awareness about everything that I’ve been through and this [programme] is going to shed even more.’

Jesy has openly documented the challenges of her twins’ diagnosis, and in a new Instagram video, she revealed they will be using leg splints to flatten out their ‘pointed’ feet

The star then showed the tiny leg splints her daughters would be wearing, with Story’s covered in hearts while Ocean’s had butterflies

Genetic neuromuscular disease SMA1 causes progressive muscle weakness and wasting due to motor neuron loss.

Speaking to Jamie Laing on his Great Company podcast, Jesy, who recently split from the children’s father Zion, 26, said she is hopeful that her babies will defy the odds now that they are receiving treatment and go on to have a longer life expectancy.

Jesy said: ‘So spinal muscular atrophy is a muscular wasting disease, so they don’t have a gene that we all have in our body.

‘Their muscles are now deteriorating and wasting away, and if you don’t get them treatment in time, eventually the muscles will all just die, which then affects the breathing, the swallowing, everything. And they will die before the age of two.

‘It’s not okay, but it is what it is, and I just have to accept it, and now just try and make the best out of this situation… And my girls are the strongest, most resilient babies and I really believe that they are going to defy all the odds.’

Former Little Mix singer Jesy has demanded the NHS expand the standard heel prick to check for spinal muscular atrophy.

Tests cost around £1 each and the twins ‘could have saved their legs’ with early treatment.

Moreover, Jesy’s twins had TTTS [Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome] while in the womb and were born prematurely at 31 weeks.

She said: ‘They had TTTS which affects a rare percentage of identical twins, and that means, it’s when there’s only one placenta that both the babies feed off of, and it’s cr*p for both of them, because one will get more of the nutrients and one won’t.

‘But either way, doesn’t matter. Even the baby that’s getting too many nutrients, it still affects them. It’s not good. And so if you don’t get treatment for that, they will die. It’s like, 95 per cent, that they won’t survive.’

Dianne Buswell has welcomed her first child with her boyfriend Joe Sugg, as she paid tribute to her father Mark with the newborn’s name.

The couple – who met on the BBC show in 2018 – announced they were expecting their first child back in September.

Dianne was the first professional in Strictly’s history to compete while pregnant, before her partner Stefan Dennis was forced to pull out due to injury in 2025.

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Dianne shared that she had given birth to a baby boy named Bowden, with her son’s middle names a nod to both her beloved father Mark and Joe’s late grandfather Richard, who died in 2021.

Her post included a snap of her adorable son in Dianne’s arms, along with the moment she and Joe brought their baby boy home from the hospital. 

Sharing her son’s full name, she captioned the post: ‘Never felt a love like it. Baby Bowden Mark Richard Sugg. 16/03/26.’

Dianne Buswell has welcomed her first child with her boyfriend Joe Sugg, as she paid tribute to her father Mark with the newborn’s name

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Dianne shared that she had given birth to a baby boy named Bowden as she shared sweet snaps of the moment he came home from hospital

Many of Dianne’s Strictly co-stars offered their congratulations in the comments, with Vicky Pattison writing: ‘Omg!!!! Congratulations guys!!! He is Perfect.’

Vito Coppola wrote: ‘Oh Finally, bello di zio. I am so so happy, crying for joy and happiness. Uncle Vito cannot wait to meet you ☺️ Love love love ♥️ Bellissimo a zio.’

Nancy Xu gushed: ‘Untie Nancy can’t wait to meet you, welcome to the world my beautiful angel. CONGRATULATIONS MY D D and @joe_sugg.’

Janette Manrara commented: ‘The best news!!! Congratulations my gorgeous girl. So happy for you and @joe_sugg. The most beautiful moments in life are to come.’

Amy Dowden added: ‘Utter perfection. So happy for you both, welcome baby Bowden! I can’t wait for cwtches xxxx.’

‘OMG!! Congrats to you both!!!’ Gorka Marquez posted.

Fleur East posted: ‘Ahhhh he’s here! Congratulations to both of you.’

Dianne shared her joyful pregnancy news on Instagram back in September ahead of the latest series of Strictly Come Dancing. 

For their pregnancy reveal video, poignantly set to Elton John’s Tiny Dancer, Dianne and Joe set up an easel and pretended to paint a picture together, with playful dramatics.

They then picked up the canvas to display it to the camera, revealing a drawing of two stickmen – one with Dianne’s signature flaming red hair – holding hands with a baby.

The couple added that their first child was due in 2026 and even revealed the sex of their little one, declaring they were expecting a son.

Joe captioned the clip: ‘Our little baby boy ❤️ we cannot wait to meet you.’

The couple were flooded with congratulatory comments from friends and fans, with their fellow Strictly stars leading the well-wishes.

Dianne hinted that the birth of their baby son was imminent in February in a sweet update. 

She created a video montage of her and her partner Joe Sugg’s items and then added miniature versions.

Dianne said ‘now we wait’ after showing she was ready for the birth with tiny clothes, shoes and even a Strictly-themed onesie ready for the baby.

She captioned the Instagram post: ‘When 2 will soon become 3 the last one!’

The couple’s son’s middle names are a nod to both Dianne’s beloved father Mark, and Joe’s late grandfather Richard, who died in 2021

Dianne went on to share a new snap of her baby boy on her Instagram Stories, while sharing the pronunciation of her son’s name

Many of Joe and Dianne’s Strictly co-stars offered their congratulations for the couple in the comments of their post

The couple – who met on the BBC show in 2018 – announced they were expecting their first child back in September, making Dianne the first pro to compete on Strictly while pregnant

Joe and Dianne struck up a romance when they were paired together during the sixteenth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2018. 

Strictly bosses reportedly put contingency plans in place for Dianne as she became the first pregnant star to compete in the competition last year. 

With the baby due in early 2026 and the Strictly final in December 2025, she could have potentially been dancing right up until her due date, forcing bosses to ensure they had a back up plan.

A source told The Sun: ‘Producers have plans in place, and there are several pros who could easily step in and take over at a moment’s notice, because the show must go on.

‘The BBC’s primary concern is the health and wellbeing of Dianne and they fully intend to support her through the process with regular check-ins from the welfare team.’ 

Meanwhile a Strictly source told Daily Mail: ‘This story makes something out of nothing – the plans described have long existed for everyone, and it’s misleading to claim otherwise.’ 

Dianne competed on last year’s series alongside fellow Aussie, Neighbours actor Stefan Dennis, but the duo were forced to withdraw after he sustained an injury.

The rumour mill was quickly flooded with people speculating that Stefan’s injury was in fact a cover-up and that Dianne’s pregnancy was the reason for their withdrawal.

But Dianne rushed to Instagram to squash the rumours, penning: ‘Just to clarify as I have had lots of people msg me thinking this is a cover up for me being not able to dance!? 

‘Firstly we wouldn’t lie especially about somebody being sick! And secondly I am fine, yes I am pregnant but I’m also very capable and feeling really good!’ 

She also explained that there are protocols in place regarding the professionals sickness as she added: ‘Thirdly there are things in place if any pro were to get sick or injured.’

Dianne made lots of hints towards their baby plans in the months leading up to their pregnancy announcement, admitting in May that she was desperate to become a mum.

But the star, who won the Glitterball Trophy with partner Chris McCausland in 2024, explained that the gruelling demands of her showbiz career had put their family plans on hold.

She told The Sun: ‘I would like to have children, 100 per cent. Joe and I love kids, and that’s definitely something that we would absolutely love. I haven’t really thought about how many I would like. It will definitely happen.’