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Zohran Mamdani Praised for Move to End NYC’s 168-Year Tradition

Zohran Mamdani Praised for Move to End NYC’s 168-Year Tradition

Updated 17:20 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1Published 17:19 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1The bill to stop horse riding in NYC is named after an 18-year-old tourist who died after falling from a carriage in June An 18-year-old tourist's death in Central Park in June has set in motion the end of horse-drawn carriages in New York City.Mayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin have struck a deal to make the carriages illegal to operate in the five boroughs starting in June 2028, officials said Tuesday. The mayor tweeted: "The horse carriage industry is coming to an end in New York City. "Our administration will make sure workers and owners are protected and the horses are safe."AdvertMayor Zohran Mamdani and City Council Speaker Julie Menin have struck a deal to end horse-drawn carriages in New York City, officials said Tuesday. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)The City Council is set to vote on the legislation on Oct. 22, and the BBC reports that a spokesperson for the speaker said it has the support of a council majority.The bill is called Romanch's law, after Romanch Mahajan, who was visiting from India when the horse pulling his carriage bolted, causing the 18-year-old to fall and die.The bill is called Romanch's law, after 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan, who died after falling from a carriage in Central Park in June. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)Why are horse-drawn carriages being banned in Central Park?It is not the first time officials have tried to end the practice. Former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced soon after his inauguration in 2014 that he wanted to ban the carriages in Central Park, citing poor treatment of the horses, and proposed replacing them with a fleet of vintage electric cars. He ultimately brought in new rules restricting where carriages can pick up tourists.Menin has backed the bill since the teenager's death. "The tragic and preventable death of 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan made clear that the status quo is no longer acceptable," she said in a statement to the New York Post. She added: "Horse-drawn carriages have long been part of New York City's history, but in an increasingly busy Central Park, this tradition has become a growing public safety liability."Romanch's father, Deepak, later told the City Council he could not ‘properly describe to you the real, true fear inside that carriage’.The Central Park Conservancy, the nonprofit that manages the park, said last year that it supported a ban."We do not take this position lightly," the conservancy's president wrote in a letter, adding that record visitation had made banning the carriages ‘a matter of public health and safety for park visitors’.The City Council is set to vote on the bill on Oct. 22, with the ban due to begin in June 2028. (Photo by: Deb Cohn-Orbach/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)What happens to carriage drivers if the ban passes?Some workers' groups have pushed back against the legislation.The Transport Workers Union, which says it represents 300 horse-carriage drivers and owners, argues the horses are treated well and the industry employs hundreds of people.The latest version of the bill includes an ‘industry transition framework’, with potential job placement, training, career counseling and financial compensation for those involved in the business.Menin said the legislation will require the Mamdani administration to develop a plan to connect the city's roughly 200 laid-off carriage drivers with ‘new economic opportunities’.Mamdani spokesperson Sneha Choudhary said: "We have been working closely with the City Council, union partners, carriage drivers, animal welfare advocates, and community leaders to deliver a just transition that protects workers while ending horse-drawn carriages in Central Park once and for all."The bill does not allow the horses to be sold for slaughter.Featured Image Credit: Michael M. Santiago/Getty ImagesTopics: New York, Animals, Animal Cruelty, US News

Oct 14, 2026
Romania Scrambles F-16 Jets After Aerial Target Enters NATO Airspace

Romania Scrambles F-16 Jets After Aerial Target Enters NATO Airspace

Updated 21:35 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1Published 21:12 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1The Ministry of National Defence of Romania (MApN) said the target entered its airspaceRomania sent up two of its F-16 fighter jets after it detected an ‘aerial target’ near the eastern NATO border today.The Ministry of National Defence of Romania (MApN) said the ‘aerial target; briefly entered its airspace near Sulina, before it moved over the black sea.The target then entered Ukrainian airspace, where it was quickly shot down by Ukraine’s air defence system, MApN said.MApN said the target had been spotted by its radar surveillance system this morning (14 October) and notified the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations to trigger alert measures for parts of Tulcea County. AdvertAn emergency message was sent to phones for those impacted at around 10.20am local time. And MApN scrambled two Romanian Air Force F-16 aircraft. The air alert ended at 11.22am and the public warning was lifted. NATO member Romania borders Ukraine and has frequently had to scramble its military aircraft in response to drone activity near the border. On Tuesday (13 October), a drone hit two ships off the coast of Bulgaria in the Black Sea, sinking one. The MApN said the target was shot down over Ukraine (Yan Dobronosov/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images)Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Rumen Radev, said one of the ships was sailing under the Maltese flag and was hit by three drones at around 1.30am local time. The second ship, which was sailing under the flag of St Kitts and Nevis, was also hit and sank with one sailor rescued. In recent weeks, several senior European officials and intelligence services have warned that Russia may be planning to test the NATO alliance with increased covert attacks or even an incursion after a spate of sabotage incidents across the continent.Denmark’s defence intelligence service specifically warned Russia could use such tactics to split the NATO alliance.Earlier this week, a top NATO military commander said the alliance is ‘ready to fight tonight’ if it is attacked. US General Alexus Grynkewich said that he doesn’t believe a conflict is imminent or inevitable but went on to say that the most effective way to preserve peace is to prepare for war and to maintain open lines of communication to ‘resolve misunderstandings’.Gen Grynkewich provided no specific details about what kind of attack Nato is preparing for, nor where, nor with what kind of forces.But outlining what a response to a Russian attack could look like, Gen Grynkewich said Nato’s combined land, sea and air forces will move to stop Moscow seizing territory and deny Russia the ability to hold ground.“My theory of victory is simple,” he said at the Warsaw Security Forum.“We will block the initial attack. If the attack persists, we will blunt it and prevent any enemy advance. And if required, we will break the enemy’s forces and the operational war-fighting system arrayed against us.”This includes not just the attacking force but anything and everything that supports, sustains and controls it, he said.Gen Grynkewich added that it is important that NATO alliance members co-ordinate a 'coherent' response to Russian activity to make it clear to Moscow 'where our red lines are'.Featured Image Credit: Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Oct 14, 2026
Machine Gun Kelly’s Blunt Response to Viral Megan Fox Claim

Machine Gun Kelly’s Blunt Response to Viral Megan Fox Claim

Updated 11:13 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1Published 11:07 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1The post claimed pictures of Fox made Kelly 'want to throw his phone at the wall'Machine Gun Kelly has spoken out after a fake statement claiming he 'fumbled' Megan Fox went viral online.The 'bloody valentine' singer, whose real name is Colson Baker, dated Transformers actress Megan Fox for four years before they went their separate ways at the end of 2024.Following their split, the couple welcomed their daughter, Saga Blade, in March 2025, who they continue to co-parent. MGK and Fox have kept pretty tight-lipped following their split, but now, the rapper has spoken out after a fake post claimed he admitted to 'fumbling' the mother of four.AdvertThe fake post attributed to the rapper reads: "Seeing these new pictures of Megan genuinely makes me want to throw my phone into a wall.Kelly and Fox continue to co-parent their daughter (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)"I had the baddest woman to ever walk this planet in love with me and somehow found a way to [mess] it all up."Imagine fumbling the girl of your dreams and then having to watch the entire world remind you how beautiful she is. I'll never forgive myself."The post somehow ended up making its way to MGK's page, who put the record straight once and for all."That tweet is faker than a pair of [breasts]," he penned.He's not the only one to comment on the validity of the post. In fact, a community note has been placed under the post, which reads: "The image fabricates an X post from @machinegunkelly regretting losing Megan Fox."No such post exists from his verified account; the pair split before their daughter's March 2025 birth and co-parent, with his actual comments on her photos being lighthearted."The couple seemingly still have a good relationship following their split, with MGK singing Fox's praises during an appearance on Today with Jenna and Friends.The former couple went their separate ways in 2024 (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)I want to detract all of the congrats to me and just move it to Megan because she really does all the work. I keep getting called ‘The Music Teacher,’“ he said.Speaking about their breakup on The Jennifer Hudson Show in 2025, he said Fox was 'the greatest partner.'“It truly was an epic story of love, pain and a lot of magic,” he said about their four year relationship.“I had it with a person who is the greatest partner, the greatest partner to have had a child with.”His compliments have also made their way to social media. He told Fox he was 'stoked they had a baby' after she posted a number of modeling shoots to Instagram.Both MGK and Fox have kept quiet about their love life since the split, however, the rapper is rumored to have been 'spending time' with Dakota Johnson.Last month, the Fifty Shades star was seen watching the rapper in Milan Fashion Week's Vogue World 2026 show. Weeks prior, a source told PEOPLE that the two hit it off at Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding, and claimed that they'd been 'hanging out and seeing each other under the radar for months.'Featured Image Credit: Presley Ann/Getty Images for GQTopics: Machine Gun Kelly, Megan Fox, Celebrity

Oct 14, 2026
AI Cameras Expose 19,000 Driving Violations in Just Two Weeks

AI Cameras Expose 19,000 Driving Violations in Just Two Weeks

Updated 16:27 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1Published 16:25 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1One image appeared to show a front-seat passenger clutching a small child on their lap with no seatbeltNew AI-powered road safety cameras have caught drivers in the act, capturing images of almost 19,000 driving violations in just two weeks.The images dubbed 'frankly shocking' show driving offences including motorists using their mobile phone and passengers failing to wear seatbelts.Mayor of the West Midlands Richard Parker said the findings of the camera trial, which was conducted at two sites in Birmingham and Wolverhampton, showed risk-taking among drivers at far higher levels than was expected.Examples of life-threatening risks taken by drivers included a front-seat passenger seen with a small child on their lap with no seatbelt, and a driver with two hands on the phone rather than on the steering wheel.AdvertOne child was seen unfastened on someones lap (WMCA)Dozens of other images showed children travelling in vehicles without age-appropriate restraints.AI camera technology set up outside Ladywood and Fallings Park fire stations was used to capture the images in March.The trial was funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) in collaboration with the police and the fire service.11,045 potential non-use of seatbelt offences were recorded, as well as 1,163 potential mobile phone use offences were identified at one site.There were an additional 6,030 potential seatbelt offences and 757 potential mobile phone offences recorded at the second location.Commenting on the scale of the problem, Mr Parker said: “The number of people risking their own lives and the lives of others, including some very young children, is frankly shocking and far higher than we expected when setting up the trial.“The law is clear on seatbelts and mobile phones. I’ve met families who have lost loved ones to reckless driving. They never recover from these tragedies, the grief is always there.“People need to stop doing this, it is simply not worth the risk.The AI cameras are used as part of a new trial (WMCA)“As we review these results with our road safety partnership and look to next steps, I promise to use every resource available, including new technology like this, to make our streets safer for everyone.”Meanwhile, Simon Foster, the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner and chair of the area’s road safety partnership board, said: “These initial findings are deeply concerning.“Let me be absolutely clear: reducing the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads remains our absolute top priority.“We are closely evaluating these trial results to consider how this advanced AI technology can be deployed for future police enforcement.“We cannot tolerate reckless behaviour that puts lives at risk, and we will use every effective tool at our disposal to ensure our roads are safer.”How do they work?As per the RAC, artificial intelligence speed cameras are devices placed at the roadside that can determine if a driver is using a mobile phone, or if anyone in the vehicle is not wearing their seatbelt.AI traffic cameras are being rolled out (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)They can also be used to detect how fast someone is driving and send a report on the make, model, and number plate of a vehicle.The images are then processed to give police a full picture of the passengers and interior of a car, van, or cab of a truck.AI speed cameras in the UK are linked to all UK police and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) databases.Additionally, in 2023, a new AI camera system was introduced to the UK to capture and analyse images to see if drivers are using their mobile phones when driving.Also known as the Acusensus System, the AI uses multiple cameras to record footage that clearly displays drivers breaking the law, but all images are then reviewed by a human before any prosecutions.Featured Image Credit: WMCATopics: Technology, Driving, UK News, Crime, Travel

Oct 14, 2026
Kashim Chowdhury Draws Attention Over Five Full-Time Job Allegations

Kashim Chowdhury Draws Attention Over Five Full-Time Job Allegations

Updated 13:37 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1Published 12:30 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1Civil servant Kashim Chowdhury, 55, is also accused of 'pretending to be ill' and putting on white makeup in a video callA civil servant taking home five salaries was contracted to work more hours that exist in a week, according to prosecutors.Kashim Chowdhury, from Whitechapel, east London, has been accused of lying about his employment status by pretending to work 183 hours a week for five jobs.There are 186 hours in a week, making this physically impossible.Jurors at Southwark Crown Court were told that the 55-year-old earned almost £350,000 from eight employers between February 2020 and September 2023.AdvertProsecutor Lucy Organ recalled a ‘laughable’ incident in May 2023 when Chowdhury allegedly put on white makeup during a video call to pretend that he was ill.His UKHSA manager Aleesha Adams had arranged a video call to discuss his recent sick leave, as the court heard that Chowdhury had told employers he had to work from home to care for his ‘unwell’ mother.Chowdhury appeared on camera ‘coughing and blowing his nose’, the court heard, while Adams said that his face appeared white, as his neck was a different colour.Kashim Chowdhury denies nine counts of fraud (PA)“There could be no doubt about it, the defendant had applied makeup to his face for this Teams meeting to try and pretend to his line manager that he was unwell,” she said.“This almost laughable incident demonstrates, we say, quite how far the defendant was willing to go in his deceit.”Chowdhury started working at Tower Hamlets Council in February 2020, followed by Defra in April 2021.During 2022, he also worked for East London NHS Trust for four months. After leaving the council, he reportedly took further positions at the Department of Health and Social Care, UK Health Security Agency, Department for Business and Trade, Food Standards Agency and Home Office.By May 2023, he allegedly held five full-time jobs simultaneously, totalling 183 contracted hours weekly.The defendant denies nine counts of fraud.Chowdhury has been accused of earning £350,000 from eight employers (PA)Organ said that between March 2020 and September 2023, Chowdhury had over £300,000 in credits into his three bank accounts and nearly £250,000 in debits.“He also made, the prosecution say, continuing implied false representations by having a full-time job and not revealing to his employers that he had other full-time employment,” she added.“In fact members of the jury, you will hear evidence that at times he positively lied about his employment history and having other full-time jobs.“He concealed that he had multiple simultaneous employments from his employers. As a result, he was paid for multiple full-time jobs at the same time.“We say those jobs were obtained by false representation – fraud – and made a financial gain for himself from this fraud.”Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Money, Jobs, UK News, Crime

Oct 14, 2026
James Robertson’s Final Meal Before His Florida Execution Draws Attention

James Robertson’s Final Meal Before His Florida Execution Draws Attention

Updated 21:05 13 Oct 2026 GMT+1Published 20:59 13 Oct 2026 GMT+1James Robertson, 63, took the life of fellow prisoner in 2008 so that he would be sentenced to death An inmate who was desperate to ensure that he would face the death penalty fatally strangled his cellmate as he slept. Almost two decades ago, James Robertson took the life of fellow prisoner Frank Hart at the Charlotte Correctional Institution in Florida - and on Tuesday (13 October), he faced the ultimate punishment.The 63-year-old was given via lethal injection, in what was the state's first execution since the disastrous attempt to end Christa Pike's life in Tennessee. Robertson was pronounced dead at 12:32pm on Tuesday, according to The Associated Press, around ten minutes after the lethal cocktail of drugs was administered. AdvertIn Florida, a trio of deadly chemicals are combined. A sedative is merged with a drug which paralyses the death row inmate, as well as potassium acetate, which stops the heart.Robertson was put to death on Tuesday, 18 years after murdering Hart (Florida Department of Corrections)Robertson is said to have flashed a 'toothless smile' at those in the execution chamber in his final moments at the Florida State Prison. When asked if he had any words to share, local news outlet The Daily Sun, reported that he declined. Robertson had dined on steak, fried eggs, potatoes, toast and milk for his last meal. The daughter of his victim, Rebecca Hart, paid tribute to her late father who was murdered just 8 days before he was set to be released back in 2008. She told reporters: "To most people, he may be a name in a court record, a victim in a criminal case, or a part of a story they've watched on television. But to me, he was my dad."Vowing to 'honour' Hart, Rebecca added: "His life mattered before his murder, and it still matters now. I wish you could know that even now, I'm still speaking your name."I cannot undo what happened to you, but I can refuse to let your name disappear in a court file or just become another story people forget."Why Robertson was sentenced to deathHart was sleeping when he was strangled to death by Robertson on 10 December, 2008, with socks that had been tied together. The killer confessed that he had committed the murder in a bid to be sentenced to death, as he would rather that than being behind bars. Robertson was first jailed back in 1980 when he was 17-years-old after he was convicted of crimes including assault and burglary. Time was repeatedly tacked onto his sentence due to his behaviour while incarcerated. Robertson's release date was delayed due to offences such as battery, attempted escapes and possessing weapons. His cellmate, Hart, had been jailed in 2003 and was due to gain his freedom on 18 December, 2008, before his life was taken. Robertson, who pled guilty to first-degree murder, was reportedly desperate to face his fate - as The New York Times stated that he told a court hearing on 1 October that he 'just wanted the sentence to be carried out'. He decided to ditch any attempts at appeal and did not pursue any avenues to challenge his conviction. He took his last breaths at the Florida State Prison (Matt McClain/ The Washington Post via Getty Images)Robertson was sentenced him to death by 20th Judicial Circuit Judge Christine Greider in 2012. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis then signed his death warrant earlier this month. Maria DeLiberato, legal and policy director of Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty, said of the unique case: "Frank Hart deserved to be safe in state custody, and his loved ones deserve our compassion."When someone commits murder to try to secure his own execution, we have to confront the conditions that contributed to that decision and the reality that the existence of the death penalty may have caused the very violence it purportedly prevents."Robertson - who is the 17th person to be executed in Florida this year - made a 'devastating choice' to 'escape the current hell he was living in', according to the organisation Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty. A statement shared in wake of his execution suggested that he 'truly believed his life would be better on death row and actively sought out his own execution' after spending years in 'restrictive' custody. 'The very existence of the death penalty led to Frank Hart’s murder', campaigners sayIt explained: "An unstable childhood marked by loss, trauma, and multigenerational substance use landed James in trouble with the law before he was a teenager. He was sentenced to 10 years for assault and burglary shortly after his 17th birthday. He did not receive any rehabilitation in prison, and did not adjust well to prison life." It claimed that he was 'stripped of his property, his visiting rights, and human connection' and alleged that Robertson was 'confined to a cell for 23 hours a day'. "His case requires an honest conversation about how the death penalty does not deliver what it purports to," the statement said. "Supporters of capital punishment often claim it is a deterrent for future violence. In this case, not only was the death penalty not a deterrent, it was an inspiration. James repeatedly maintained that he committed this murder so that he could be sent to death row."We cannot ignore this inescapable truth: the very existence of the death penalty led to Frank Hart’s murder."Featured Image Credit: NetflixTopics: Death Row, US News, Crime

Oct 14, 2026
Why Brooklyn Shop Priced a Bird at $15 Million After Kelly Clarkson Row

Why Brooklyn Shop Priced a Bird at $15 Million After Kelly Clarkson Row

Updated 02:45 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1Published 02:24 14 Oct 2026 GMT+1The shop at the center of Kelly Clarkson's 'Pretty Woman' drama also claims fans doxed neighbors and put staff in danger over the $15m birdThe bitter public feud between Kelly Clarkson and a Brooklyn novelty boutique has escalated into chaos, with the store's co-owner accusing the daytime host of waging "asymmetrical social warfare" and slapping an astronomical $15 million price tag on the mechanical bird that sparked the clash.The dispute erupted over the weekend after the 42-year-old pop star visited Art of Play, a quirky gift and puzzle shop in Brooklyn.Following the visit, Clarkson shared a furious rant on X alleging that employees gave her cold, dismissive treatment, comparing the awkward encounter to the famous scene in Pretty Woman where boutique staff snub Julia Roberts' character.The post rapidly exploded across social media, clocking more than 45 million views in just 72 hours.AdvertNow, Art of Play co-owner Adam Rubin has fiercely defended his staff, telling New York magazine’s Curbed that the entire confrontation was an "insane misunderstanding" blown out of proportion by an ultra-famous celebrity using her immense digital megaphone.Rubin explained that Clarkson spent "less than five minutes" inside the crowded shop on a bustling Saturday before angrily scolding an employee on her way out the door."Nothing happened in this shop to justify her scolding our shopkeeper on the way out, but I can let that go," Rubin told the outlet. "Things changed when she used her platform to attack us. It’s asymmetrical social warfare."At the heart of the standoff was "Molly," a rare, handcrafted animatronic singing bird crafted by woodland artisan Bliss Kolb.While only two exist, the store previously placed a $15,000 sticker on the piece purely to gauge serious interest from collectors.Following Clarkson's online fury, Rubin decided to lean into the viral attention by dramatically inflating the price a thousandfold."As you’ve noticed, we’ve raised the price due to popular demand," Rubin remarked. "It now costs $15 million."The store has claimed Clarkson wanted to purchase ‘Molly’ - a singing and dancing bird that is not for sale (Instagram/@artofplay)Beyond the eye-watering price hike, Rubin claimed the fallout has turned genuinely frightening for his team and nearby residents. The business owner reported that furious fans bombarded the shop with one-star reviews, jammed phone lines until employees had to unplug the receivers, and even gathered outside on the pavement screaming accusations of profiling.According to Rubin, local police had to be summoned after neighbors filmed the sidewalk protesters, only for those residents to be doxed online by Clarkson's followers."Kelly Clarkson has put us in danger," Rubin claimed, maintaining that in-person patrons have rallied around the store. "Nobody who has ever visited this store in person is taking Kelly Clarkson’s side."Featured Image Credit: Weiss Eubanks/NBCUniversal via Getty ImagesTopics: Kelly Clarkson, Celebrity, New York

Oct 14, 2026
Why Disney’s Return to Oz Still Terrifies Viewers Decades Later

Why Disney’s Return to Oz Still Terrifies Viewers Decades Later

Updated 16:44 13 Oct 2026 GMT+1Published 16:36 13 Oct 2026 GMT+1The 1980s movie includes a princess that hoarded a collection of heads and a doctor trying to carry out electroconvulsive therapyDecades after the Wizard of Oz hit screens, an unofficial Walt Disney sequel was made which quickly earned itself an eerie reputation.Return to Oz is a dark fantasy film following Dorothy's return to the Land of Oz. Instead, it follows an unfortunate twist when she arrives and is welcomed by mainly rubble after it was conquered by a cruel king.The children's movie instead was branded a 'horror' and was dubbed 'one of the darkest children's films ever made', with a number of creepy scenes including in a psychiatric ward and involving a headless princess which kept a collection of children's heads.It didn't perform at the box office when compared with the $28 million budget, but later became a cult favourite.AdvertIt became notorious for terrifying young audiences, as Dorothy Gale becomes trapped in Princess Mombi's chamber of disembodied heads.The film has become a cult classic (Disney)It also features the Wheelers, a pack of evil creatures with wheels for feet and scenes where a young Dorothy has her memories of Oz erased by a creepy doctor.Released in 1985, it had its first premiere in the United States, but the critical reception was largely mixed. At the time, reviewers Siskel and Ebert labelled it 'trashy' and claimed it was likely to terrify children.The Guardian said the film exists today 'largely in the nightmares of fortysomethings', but praised the 'devastatingly dark movie' for a 'dizzying sense of ambition and a dazzling central turn'.However American film editor and director Walter Mulch told a documentary on its 40th anniversary that he disagreed with the sentiment, saying: "People said this is too scary for kids."I thought, well, kids are looking at films with heads being chopped off and blood gushing everywhere, and nothing like that happens in this film."No-one even touches anyone else to hurt them."The Wheelers (Disney)That may be true, but viewers certainly didn't feel like the film was without its unsettling moments.In one scene, a young Dorothy played by Fairuza Balk sees her sneak into Mombi’s collection of severed heads to steal the Powder of Life. But the heads wake up, scream her name, and then Mombi’s headless body chases her.Other scenes include the Wheelers, a group of bizarre characters than have wheels instead of hands and feet along with freaky faces on their helmets. In one Reddit forum, viewers claimed they were 'traumatised' by the odd characters which were 'creepy'.And in another unsettling scene, before Dorothy's return to the Land of Oz, she is taken to a psychiatric institution because she insists that Oz is real. There, the doctor intends to treat her with electroconvulsive therapy in a bid to make her forget her memories.After discovering the fantasy land famed in the original film, along with the Yellow Brick Road and Emerald City had been destroyed, Dorothy with her new friends, including Tik-Tok, Jack Pumpkinhead and the Gump, she must defeat the evil rulers and restore Oz to its former glory.Disney itself describes the Wheelers as 'creepy' and Princess Mombi as 'head-hunting', but the official listing bills the film as adventure, family and fantasy.The princess was headless (Disney)However in an article by the BBC, it was described as one of the 'darkest children's films ever made.'In one Reddit forum discussing the movie, it was dubbed 'absolutely terrifying' as one user wrote: "I still find it absolutely terrifying, and I’m 29. Anyone find this film a scary ride?""Even the good guys are kind of creepy in their ways," another said. "Like Jack asking Dorothy to check if the inside of his head is starting to rot was unnerving to young me."Imagine the inside of your head doing that. And the Gump being a kind of Frankenstein monster of assorted household objects."A third chimed in: "I always found it scary, even the things that weren't meant to be - like the severed head attached to a sofa they rode about. It was all so weird. The Wheelers were the worst though."The cast of Return to Oz (Disney)As a fourth commented: "The movie begins with Dorothy being committed to an asylum and then set up for electro-shock treatment, and that's all before all the stuff in Oz happens."Despite this, over the years it has become a favourite and gained a new generation of fans. It has a rating of 71 percent on Rotten Tomatoes from more than 50,000 ratings.And, American Cinematheque's Walter Murch retrospective included Return to Oz in a programme celebrating the filmmaker's career.Featured Image Credit: DisneyTopics: Film, Entertainment

Oct 13, 2026
William Chapman’s Family Breaks Silence After Yorkshire Wildlife Park Tragedy

William Chapman’s Family Breaks Silence After Yorkshire Wildlife Park Tragedy

Published 22:48 13 Oct 2026 GMT+1The family of William Chapman, who died after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, has paid tribute to their 'warm' son.The heartbroken family of a young man who died after entering a tiger enclosure at a wildlife park in South Yorkshire has paid tribute to him, describing their son as "bright, warm and engaging."William Chapman, who was in his mid-20s, visited the popular Yorkshire Wildlife Park situated near Doncaster on Saturday afternoon. Tragically, he was attacked after going into the big cat's pen, suffering catastrophic injuries. Emergency responders rushed to the scene shortly after 1:30 p.m. BST, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead inside the enclosure.The horrific incident prompted an immediate evacuation of visitors and staff from the surrounding grounds, with the visitor attraction remaining shut to the public for three consecutive days as authorities secured the scene.AdvertBreaking their silence following the weekend tragedy, Chapman's relatives released an emotional statement on Tuesday evening expressing the immense grief that has gripped their household.William was sadly killed at Yorkshire Wildlife Park last weekend (SWNS)"William was a bright, warm and engaging young man whom his family dearly loved—and William loved them back," the family said in their statement. "The family are utterly devastated by their loss and are struggling to come to terms with what has happened."The family also disclosed that Chapman had experienced significant health challenges in the years leading up to the tragedy. According to his relatives, he had suffered from "significant mental illness" over a prolonged period and had been prescribed "strong medication" to manage his condition.However, his parents noted that it remains the responsibility of the coroner to establish whether his ongoing mental health struggles contributed directly to his actions on Saturday afternoon."The family are hopeful that the relevant authorities will do their upmost to get to the bottom of why our amazing son did what he did," the statement continued.Altai, the tiger responsible for the fatal injuries will not be euthanised as a result of the tragedy (Yorkshire Wildlife Park)In the wake of Chapman's death, City of Doncaster Council confirmed that it has launched a comprehensive health and safety investigation into the fatal incident. Investigators from local regulatory departments and wildlife welfare bodies are expected to examine physical barriers, visitor security perimeters, and emergency response procedures established around the tiger enclosure.The wildlife park, located in Auckley near Doncaster, is home to a wide range of endangered predators and large carnivores and is one of the UK's most frequently visited animal conservation reserves. While the tragic incident resulted in the loss of William's life, officials were able to confirm that the tiger responsible for his fatal injuries would not be euthanised. Officials at the park have maintained close cooperation with emergency services, health inspectors, and council representatives as the investigation continues into how the perimeter was breached.Featured Image Credit: InstagramTopics: UK News

Oct 13, 2026
Katie Zacharia sparks reactions after first White House press conference

Katie Zacharia sparks reactions after first White House press conference

Published 17:18 13 Oct 2026 GMT+1New White House press secretary under fire after 'brutal' first press conference is cut shortIt was a difficult first outing in her new jobIt was a tough first day at the office for Donald Trump's new press secretary Katie Zacharia, as her first press conference in the new job came in for some criticism.She just started the job yesterday (12 October) and while she said she was 'so honoured to work for President Trump and the American people' in the job she also mistakenly said 'my president' when she meant 'my husband', and there were many critics of how she did overall.One viewer said that Zacharia 'makes Karoline Leavitt seem like Winston Churchill', while another asked 'is this a hostage video', with the whole thing being a rather brief affair as she only took a handful of questions.Others called it a 'car crash in real time', while Anthony Scaramucci, one of her predecessors in the job, was among the critics who suggested she'd need to up her game or not last very long. Advert"The clock is running. Thus far 1/11th of a Scaramucci," he said, referring to his own 11 day tenure as White House communications director which has become a unit of measurement in politics.Liz Truss, for example, was prime minister for 4.1 Scaramucci's. Viewers said they'd give her 'half a Scaramucci' and wondered 'how many Scaramucci's' she would last in the role, which isn't much of a sign of confidence in her.It seems Scaramucci is not the only one wondering whether his record for the shortest-lived stint at the press office lectern is going to last as MS NOW reporter Jake Traylor said a White House official also gave Zacharia a bad review on her first go.They told the reporter: "Getting behind the podium is tough, but she got off on the wrong foot. She needs to get much better, fast, otherwise she'll break Scaramucci's record."There were other more positive noises coming through the White House's official channels on how she did in the job as well as her outlook for the future.It was a difficult first outing for Katie Zacharia (Jim WATSON / AFP via Getty Images)White House communications director Steven Cheung told LADbible: "Katie is a fabulous and wonderful addition to the team. "She is uniquely qualified and whip smart to help inform the American people about all the great things president Trump and his Administration have been doing, and she will do an incredible job as press secretary."Speaking about assuming her new role in the White House, Zacharia had said: "I am grateful to serve president Trump as press secretary, and I will diligently and effectively amplify his successful agenda."Zacharia is there to replace Karoline Leavitt, who left the job earlier this year, and she is Trump's sixth press secretary as he's gone through several people in the position before finding a replacement.Trump, meanwhile, said she did 'very good'.Featured Image Credit: BBCTopics: US News, Donald Trump

Oct 13, 2026
Charlie Anderson-Read’s Final Message Leaves Followers With One Powerful Wish

Charlie Anderson-Read’s Final Message Leaves Followers With One Powerful Wish

Published 14:43 13 Oct 2026 GMT+1Charlie Anderson-Read was first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at 38, after noticing a 'hardening' below her lungsWarning: This article contains discussion of cancer which some readers may find distressing.A blogger named Charlie Anderson-Read has sadly passed away at 41, following a long battle with cancer and announced her own death on social media with a final message. Anderson-Read was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer three years ago, and later, was also diagnosed with a bile duct cancer called cholangiocarcinoma. After being given the news that her cancer was terminal, she revealed her life post-cancer diagnosis online, building a following of people with similar stories, or those who wanted to see her survive the disease and fight the odds that were against her. AdvertBut on October 10, Anderson-Read's Instagram account gave a final update on her condition, and it was one that nobody wanted to receive. The mother had passed away early in the morning, and as planned, her pre-recorded message was released for all to see. Charlie Anderson-Read was diagnosed with cancer at 38 (Instagram/mummy_againstcancer)“At 7:30 this morning, Charlie passed,” a message at the start of the clip reads. “She is now at peace. A few weeks ago, Charlie recorded a video to share with you all after her death.” Anderson-Read then popped up on the screen, where she shared her last goodbye to her followers, as well as sharing her hopes her for wife, Louise, and their 4-year-old daughter, Florence. She said in the clip: “If you are watching this video, I am, unfortunately, no longer here.” “No, I haven’t kind of posted it from a different world,” she said, adding: “Someone has kindly posted this on my behalf, so thank you. I just wanted to say thank you to all of you guys. “All of your messages and kind words have really helped me through what’s been a very difficult time. A lot of you have donated money to help out Louise and Florence for when I am no longer here and for that I’ll be forever grateful.” Anderson-Read went on to say: “I hope through this being such a terrible situation for me, I hope that some of these videos have helped out at least some people. “And through this whole ordeal, I have only come across people being kind to me, generous to me and it’s just shown me how much good there is in the world. I hope you guys can see it all now. “Any type of disease, terminal or whatever, is just absolutely awful, and I can only imagine what it’s been like for my friends and family and to people that have never met me, how hard it’s been to watch my journey.” In the end, she concluded with what she was grateful for in life, telling her viewers: “I’m so grateful for the life that I’ve led. I have absolutely no regrets whatsoever,” she added. “The only thing is I wish I’d stayed with my family for longer and seen Florence grow up. There are things like that that I wish I was here for, many thing I’ll miss. But there’s so much that I’ve experienced and I’ve been so lucky to have these extra 2 1/2 years.” “So, for the last time, take care everybody. I wish you all well. Keep fighting — don’t let my passing have any negative effect on people, or on you. Keep fighting, you’ve got this,” she said. Early pancreatic cancer can often be missed due to the absence of symptoms, per the American Cancer Society. However, signs may present themselves as fatigue, jaundice, loss of appetite, back pain, nausea, vomiting and blood clots. Anderson-Read previously revealed her initial symptoms including a lack of appetite during a stressful period in life. Then, she said she felt what was almost like a lump ‘just below where my lungs are. It just felt like a hard muscle.’ “It was kind of a lump, but wasn’t really,” Anderson-Read said. From there, she said she experienced jabbing pain. “It was quite painful to the point that I couldn’t stand up,” she said, and soon, she was given the harrowing news that she had cancer, and had only six weeks to live.But despite all, she managed to prove her prognosis wrong, and lived until 41.If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.Featured Image Credit: mummy_againstcancer/InstagramTopics: Cancer, Health

Oct 13, 2026
William Chapman Identified After Fatal Tiger Incident at Yorkshire Wildlife Park

William Chapman Identified After Fatal Tiger Incident at Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Updated 14:29 13 Oct 2026 GMT+1Published 14:04 13 Oct 2026 GMT+1The man was pronounced dead at the scene following the tiger attack at Yorkshire Wildlife Park on Saturday A man who died after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park has been identified as William Chapman.Chapman, who has been described as 'in his 20s' by eyewitnesses, was pronounced dead at the scene after he was attacked by a tiger in the enclosure on Saturday, according to South Yorkshire Police.Witnesses have said a woman 'desperately tried to pull Chapman back' from jumping in the habitat, but he 'overpowered her and jumped off.'"We spoke to her after and she was like, ‘I tried to pull him back’ but I guess she didn’t want to risk her own life as well," witness Anthony Hunt told The Telegraph.Advert“We did hear some gunshots, but that was when they shot the ground, then the police told us [the man] was pronounced dead.Yorkshire Wildlife Park remains closed (SWNS)"The woman said the man was saying something religious," he claimed.A spokesperson for the South Yorkshire Police have said Chapman's family are being supported by specialist officers. The park, which is located in Doncaster, still remains closed following investigations.On Sunday, the park confirmed that the tiger, Altai, would not be euthanized following the attack.A statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, read: "Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies remain with the family and loved ones of the man who tragically lost his life."The park added that 'the staff team who were deeply affected by events' would be receiving specialist support."Many people have contacted us about Altai, the tiger," the statement continued. "We can reassure everyone that he is safe and well and will not be euthanized as a result of this incident."The tiger will not be euthanized following the attack (Getty Stock)Following the fatal incident, South Yorkshire Police issued a warning to the public as distressing social media footage of the attack began to circulate. "We are aware of videos circulating online and we would encourage people not to share this footage," they said.In the footage, Chapman could be seen pointing his finger at the mammal, seemingly telling Altai to 'stop.'The city of Doncaster Council has also launched a health and safety investigation into Chapman's death.A number of witnesses said people 'tried to distract' the tiger from Chapman, although their attempts were unsuccessful. The specialized enclosure currently houses two Amur tigers named Altai and Tschuna. Guests can view the tigers from a 300-meter raised walkway which runs over the secured two-acre habitat.Amur tigers, also known as Siberian tigers, are the largest big cats in the world. Featured Image Credit: InstagramTopics: UK News

Oct 13, 2026