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Paper straws “don’t work, I’ve had them many times, and on occasion, they break, they explode”, says Trump

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive order pushing for a return to plastic drinking straws, saying their impact on marine life was limited and that paper ones favoured by environmentalists “explode.”

The order by Republican Trump reverses a target set by his Democratic predecessor Joe Biden to eliminate single-use plastic utensils like straws across government agencies by 2035.

“We’re going back to plastic straws,” Trump told reporters as he signed the order in the Oval Office.

“These things don’t work, I’ve had them many times, and on occasion, they break, they explode. If something’s hot, they don’t last very long, like a matter of minutes, sometimes a matter of seconds. It’s a ridiculous situation,” Trump said.

Environmentalists have long campaigned for an end to the use of plastic straws and other utensils, saying they pollute marine environments in particular.

But Trump — who has long appeared vexed by paper straws — rejected their concerns.

“I don’t think that plastic is going to affect a shark as they’re eating, as they’re munching their way through the ocean,” said Trump.

Presenting the document for Trump to sign, White House staff secretary Will Scharf said the environmental impact was “entirely debatable” and that American consumers were “wildly dissatisfied with their straws.”

Trump, who has called climate change a “scam,” has issued a series of orders on the environment since returning to the White House for a second term.

He pulled out of the Paris climate change agreement soon after his inauguration on January 20 and has pledged to “drill, baby, drill” for oil.

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show shattered records, including one held by Michael Jackson for 30 years

Kendrick Lamar performs at the 2025 Super Bowl while Michael Jackson performs at the 1993 show

Kendrick Lamar has officially dethroned Michael Jackson.

The rapper’s recent Super Bowl halftime show has become the most-watched Super Bowl halftime show in history, a record previously held by the King of Pop for over 30 years.

Roc Nation, Apple Music, and the NFL confirmed on Tuesday, February 11, that Kendrick’s Super Bowl LIX performance drew 133.5 million viewers, edging out Jackson’s legendary 1993 show, which had 133.4 million.

“We’ve broken the record again! The most-watched Apple Music Halftime show EVER,” the companies announced on Instagram. 

Lamar’s performance even surpassed the game itself, which averaged 126 million viewers, as the Philadelphia Eagles claimed victory over the Kansas City Chiefs with a final score of 40-22.

The milestone marks another historic achievement for Lamar, who became the first solo rapper to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. His set featured guest appearances from Samuel L. Jackson, SZA, Serena Williams, and Mustard, and was packed with tracks from his chart-topping 2024 album GNX. 

The Humble rapper performed hits like Squabble Up, Peekaboo, Luther and All the Stars (with SZA), and TV Off, before closing with his five-time Grammy-winning Drake diss Not Like Us.

Lamar and SZA will soon take their record-breaking energy on the road, kicking off their Grand National Tour in April, with a U.K. and Europe leg set for July.

Meghan Markle takes important step for future as Prince Harry left solo in Canada

Meghan Markle shifts focus on new plans as she leaves Prince Harry solo

Meghan Markle is continuing to work behind the scenes as the Duchess of Sussex shifts focus on her individual secret projects.

Prince Harry was accompanied by his wife for the first few days of the Invictus Games in Vancouver and Whistler.

It is understood that Meghan is expected to fly back to California to race back to her children, Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, three.

Before Meghan stepped out for the Harry’s major event, reports emerged that the former Suits actress had been planning to write a divorce book, not about her first husband, but about her alleged split with King Charles’ son.

Meghan was previously married to Trevor Engelson, whom she divorced after two years of marriage in 2013.

Reportedly, her team had reached out with a proposal to judge how would the project fare.

While sources denied reports that anything was finalised between Meghan’s team or the publishers, other insiders rubbished the claims stating that the Duchess would have been approached by publishers not vice versa.

Meghan may not be writing a book on divorce but she seems to be using her split to create new friendships in Hollywood. The Duchess of Sussex, who recently attended Kerry Washington’s birthday, befriended Jessica Alba, who herself divorced her partner of 20 years last month.

Sources revealed to Closer Magazine that Jessica and Meghan bonded during Kerry’s birthday as they discussed their marriages.

“Meghan was very excited about going to Kerry’s birthday celebration – mainly at the thought of befriending her A-list pals, knowing how well-connected she is in Hollywood,” the insider told the outlet.

The source noted that as Meghan’s A-list friendship circle is “rapidly declining,” she’s hoping this new friendship with Jessica can flourish.

“[Meghan hopes that she’ll be welcomed into her social circle with the likes of Kate Hudson and Jennifer Garner as she continues to do whatever she can to hang onto her Hollywood star status.”

Taylor Swift wins Swifties over with ‘class act’ at Grammys after-party

Taylor Swift has a heart bigger than the whole sky.

The 35-year-old pop superstar left her fans stunned with a secret kind action that got unveiled in a fan-posted video on Tuesday, February 11th.

The candid video featured the Anti-Hero hitmaker handing out $100 tips to the employees at the venue as she left the Grammys afterparty.

As the 14-time-Grammy winner was making her way out, with her security team and friends, she stopped and turned around and walked up to the employees.

She then approached them and handed the cash saying, “Thankyou,” with a smile and exited.

“It isn’t even about the money, she’s just a SOLID human!,” TikToker Jessica Golich wrote in the caption of the video.

Swifties flocked to the comments section quickly and gushed about the Love Story songstress’ now-viral interaction.

“She doesn’t HAVE to do this, she chooses to,” one wrote.

Another echoed the sentiment, writing, “class act. we made the right person famous.”

“This making me cry today, she’s so precious and kind to everyone. I love you Taylor,” another chimed in.

“This is why I don’t understand why people hate her and boo her! She literally has the most sweetest and kindest soul!” wrote another, referring to the recent booing Swift faced at the Super Bowl match.

Elon Musk’s 4-year-old son added some levity to an otherwise serious meeting at the White House.

The tech billionaire, 53, brought his son X AE A-XII to meet with President Donald Trump before the commander-in-chief signed an executive order to slash the federal workforce on Tuesday.

Musk, who heads the Department of Government Efficiency, and the toddler stood behind Trump, 78, as they took photos in the Oval Office.

Elon Musk’s 4-year-old son joined him at the White House.

He shares X AE A-XII with ex Grimes.

Musk threw on a black blazer atop a T-shirt for the meeting, while his son looked sharp in black trousers, a sweater and a camel coat.

X AE A-XII, who goes by X, put on a cheeky display despite being in the presence of the president.

The toddler was photographed flashing funny faces, flopping on the ground and climbing on his dad’s shoulders.

The group seemed to be in great spirits as they laughed and chatted about the little one’s antics.

The tech founder brought the toddler along for a meeting with Donald Trump.

Trump signed an executive order giving Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency more power.

The spirits were light despite the serious nature of the meeting.

However, this wasn’t the first time the tot met the head of state. Musk brought X to Trump’s most recent New Year’s Eve party at Mar-a-Lago, where the CEO was captured dancing with his son on his shoulders.

While Musk is the father to 12 children, the Tesla founder rarely steps out with kids.

Musk welcomed six kids — late son Nevada, twins Griffin and Vivian, 20, and triplet sons Kai, Saxon and Damian, 19 — with his first wife, Justine Wilson.

The little one wore a camel coat atop a sweater and button-up.

X flashed funny faces for the cameras.

The little one plopped on the ground as the grown ups chatted.

He wed Wilson in January 2000 but they split after eight years of marriage.

Musk began dating singer Grimes, whose real name is Claire Elise Boucher, in May 2018 and they welcomed X — their son, not the social media platform — two years later.

Although the on-again, off-again couple split in September 2021, they welcomed daughter Exa Dark Sideræl Musk, who was given the nickname Y, via surrogate three months later.

X added some flare to hit outfit with a gold chain.

Meanwhile, he dad opted for all-black.

They quietly had their thid child, Techno Mechanicus aka “Tau” around June 2022. However, they seem to be done for good as Grimes recently denounced her ex after his controversial appearance at Trump’s inauguration.

The exes have also been locked in a contentious custody battle over their little ones, with the “Genesis” singer claiming she didn’t see one of her children for five months.

Meanwhile, Musk also shares 2-year-old twins, Strider and Azure, and and a 1-year-old child, whose name and sex has not been revealed, with Shivon Zilis.

His relationship status with the Neuralink director is unknown.

‘For those who don’t have a voice, the ones who people tend to ignore, I feel like I’m a champion for them,’ the Scottish singer said

Susan Boyle’s comeback on America’s Got Talent saw her rewarded with the prestigious Golden Buzzer.

Boyle was competing in the US reality series having been a runner-up on season three of Britain’s Got Talent in 2009 when she wowed crowds with a rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” from the musical Les Misérables.

“Most of the audience, they were laughing, but they looked at my mouth, and that seemed to change. You don’t expect people to be that excited about you,” she said of her original appearance. “I’m glad I stepped on that stage.

”Boyle made it to the final on the 2009 series but was eventually beaten to the prize by dance troupe Diversity, despite being a clear favourite to win.

“For those who maybe don’t have the confidence to do things, for those who don’t have a voice, the ones who people tend to ignore, I feel like I’m a champion for them,” the Scottish singer added. “Coming in second doesn’t mean you lost, it’s an unfulfilled promise.

”On performing in front of Simon Cowell, who was on the panel of judges during her first appearance, Boyle said: “[I’m] excited to show Simon how much I’ve grown since the last time he saw me. It’s my golden opportunity to have that promise fulfilled.”

“You know what, Susan? I can’t think of any other contestant who has defined this show better than you, if I’m being honest with you,” Cowell said of her performance. “You’re the one, you made a huge difference in a lot of people’s lives. I’m absolutely thrilled you’re here.”

Mel B, meanwhile, pushed the coveted Golden Buzzer for Boyle, which can only be used once by a judge per season, explaining: “I just want to say what an absolute honour and pleasure it is to be sitting here and listening to you. Your angelic voice and I want to be the woman who gives you something you deserve.”

Her debut studio album, I Dreamed a Dream, became the UK’s best-selling debut album of all time, and she has released a further six studio albums. She has been nominated for two Grammy Awards, in 2011 and 2012.

For her return to the series, Boyle performed “Wild Horses”, which featured on I Dreamed a Dream and which she performed on AGT’s fourth season in 2009, which marked her US television debut.

Brad Pitt flaunts his uncovered tattoos while promoting his F1 movie

Brad Pitt’s uncovered tattoos reveal secret love story with Angelina Jolie

Brad Pitt, evergreen artist of Hollywood who is known for his legendary roles, gave fans a rare glimpse of his tattoo collection while attending an F1 event, and this sight has fans buzzing.

The 61-year-old actor went shirtless during the event, revealing a few meaningful tattoos across his body. His chest and arms were covered in ink as he lounged on a yellow sofa, dressed casually in off-white slacks.

Brad began having those tattoos during his romance with ex-wife Angelina Jolie, who wears her ink like a storybook with designs like “Know Your Rights” and a cross.

However, some of his Cambodian-inspired tattoos even seem to match hers, showing that their shared past is still written on his skin.

The Wolfs star still carrying pieces of memories with the Maria actress with him, including her birthday inked on his lower torso and the letter “A” for her name.

In the past, the Oscar-winning star Brad Pitt has offered a few glimpses of his inked body, occasionally revealing one on his arm or leg. But this new photo gives a much clearer look, proving just how much he embraces body art.

Valerie Bertinelli, Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce

Valerie Bertinelli has had it up to here with haters who don’t support Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s romance — and she’s not afraid to say it.

“Can all of you negative Nellies just stop? Just stop,” Bertinelli, 63, began in a TikTok video shared on Saturday, September 30. “Let the rest of us enjoy watching two successful, funny, talented, incredibly gorgeous human beings — let us enjoy watching them fall in love.”

Bertinelli went on to slam various arguments against Swift and Kelce, both 33. “Oh, but she was too loud at the game?” Bertinelli said in a mocking voice. “It’s a game. It’s a football game. They’re exciting. They’re very thrilling.”

For those critics who believe the relationship is “a PR move,” Bertinelli had this to say: “Shut up. Shut up!”

In conclusion, she added, “Let the rest of us respectfully enjoy this love story that’s playing out in front of us, OK? Thank you. Have a good day.”

Bertinelli’s video debuted one day before Swift attended her second Kansas City Chiefs game in support of Kelce. The pop star watched Kelce’s team take on the New York Jets at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on Sunday, October 1, in a box with a slew of famous people including Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Sophie Turner and Sabrina Carpenter. At one point, Swift shared a hug with Travis’ mom, Donna Kelce.

Courtesy of Valerie Bertinelli/Instagram

Speculation about Travis and Swift’s romance began in early September but reached a fever pitch when Swift attended the Chiefs’ September 24 game against the Chicago Bears. She was photographed in the stands with Donna, loudly cheering for Travis when he scored a touchdown.

After the game, Travis and Swift left Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium together and went for a ride in a convertible.

“Shout-out to Taylor for pulling up,” Travis said during the Wednesday, September 27, episode of his “New Heights” podcast with brother Jason Kelce. “That was pretty ballsy.”

He added that “everybody in the suite had nothing but great things to say about her” after the game. “The friends and family. She looked amazing … and on top of that, the day went perfect for Chiefs fans. We script it all, ladies and gentlemen,” he teased. “It was absolutely electric.”

While Bertinelli and other observers are very invested in Travis and Swift’s romance, an insider exclusively told Us Weekly last month that the pair are taking things slowly.

“They have been on a few dates and Taylor is smitten with him,” the source explained. “[Taylor is] working hard right now and not looking for anything serious, but anything is possible. They’re getting closer and closer every day.”

Key points

• I’ll leave him alone. He’s got enough problems with his wife: Trump
• Harry’s immigration status is subject of a lawsuit in Washington DC
• Harry could be on a rare diplomatic visa known as an A-1 Head of State visa

United States (US) President Donald Trump says he has no plans to deport Prince Harry from the US amid a legal battle over his immigration status – taking a swipe at his wife Meghan Markle in the process.

“I don’t want to do that,” Trump said on Friday, according to Daily Mail.

“I’ll leave him alone. He’s got enough problems with his wife. She’s terrible,” he told the New York Post.

Harry’s immigration status is the subject of a lawsuit in Washington DC.

Illegal drug use

Conservative think tank the Heritage Foundation has alleged that he may have concealed illegal drug use that should have denied him a US visa.

In his memoir, Spare, he detailed how he took cocaine several times as a teenager and experimented with cannabis and mushrooms.

Heritage cited his own admissions in its filing against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as it sought to have Harry’s visa records released.

“Megxit”

It has suggested that Trump’s predecessor, Democrat Joe Biden, had given Harry preferential treatment when he relocated to California after “Megxit” – when he and Meghan bowed out of royal duties altogether.

The think tank previously tried to seek the disclosure of Harry’s visa papers via US Customs and Border protection, which said it needed the Duke of Sussex’s permission to release them.

It appears to be a change of heart for Trump, who had previously suggested last March that he could deport the Duke.

He had told GB News: “We’ll have to see if they know something about the drugs, and if he lied they’ll have to take appropriate action.”

The US Department of State says that convictions for drug offences can make visa applicants ineligible.

Heritage had sought to obtain the information from the DHS via freedom of information requests before bringing its case to court. Harry is not a party in the lawsuit.

Last year, Dailymail.com revealed that Harry could be on a rare diplomatic visa known as an A-1 Head of State visa.

That would have meant he was not vetted by US authorities for past use of drugs. If this is the case, the State Department under Trump could withdraw the status.

“Not a fan”

The President has previously said he is “not a fan” of Meghan – while she has labelled him “divisive” and “misogynistic”. Trump labelled her “nasty” in return in 2019 – before labelling her a “very good American Princess”.

He has also previously described the Duke as being “whipped” by the former Suits star.

Hints at retiring in two to three years, likely finishing his career at Al-Nassr.

KEY POINTS

• Cristiano Ronaldo scored 82 goals in 90 matches
• New deal is worth €183 million per year
• Makes him the highest-paid footballer at the age of 40

ISLAMABAD: Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has decided to extend his contract with Saudi club Al-Nassr for another year to remain associated with the club until June 2026.

An official confirmed that both parties have reached an agreement on the contract extension, although the paperwork is yet to be finalised. An announcement is expected in the coming days. Just last week, Ronaldo celebrated his 40^th birthday, with his current contract initially set to expire in June 2025.

The former star of Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus made his move to Al Nassr in January 2023, where he made quite an impact, netting 82 goals in 90 appearances.

Back in August, Ronaldo expressed his intention to remain with Al-Nassr until the curtains fall on his professional career, which he anticipates could happen “soon or in two or three years.” He emphasised, “But it’ll most likely happen with Al-Nassr, the team that brings me joy… and where I feel at home.”

When he switched to Riyadh’s Al-Nassr two years ago, some viewed it as a transition from a glorious career to a lucrative but less visible chapter, with a reported deal worth $250 million. However, his presence has sparked a wave of other veteran stars joining the financially ambitious Saudi Pro League.

The kingdom’s ambitious sports and cultural vision took a monumental leap when it was awarded the 2034 World Cup in December, marking a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to reshape its global image through sports.

In August, Ronaldo launched his YouTube channel, and it quickly garnered a staggering one million subscribers in just 90 minutes, ballooning to 20 million within a day. He now boasts an impressive 73.5 million followers.

Leo Messi of Paris Saint-Germain and Cristiano Ronaldo of Ruyadh XI fight for possession during the friendly match between Paris Saint-Germain and Riyadh XI at King Fahd International Stadium on January 19, 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Though World Cup glory has eluded him—unlike his Argentine counterpart Lionel Messi—Ronaldo still has numerous records within his reach as he approaches the milestone of 1,000 professional goals in official matches. However, despite his remarkable scoring prowess, he has yet to claim a Saudi or continental title with Al-Nassr, with the Arab Club Champions Cup of 2023 being his sole accolade with the team.

About the contract

Ronaldo is set to pocket an astounding €183 million each year, which breaks down to a staggering €15.25 million monthly or around €550,000 daily, solidifying his status as the highest-paid footballer on the planet at 40 years old.

In terms of PKR, this lucrative new contract translates to an eye-popping 53.07 billion annually, which equates to 159.5 million every single day. But the financial numbers are just part of the story; Al-Nassr has sweetened the deal by offering the iconic forward a 5 per cent ownership stake, a gesture that underscores their faith in his leadership and dedication to the club.

This exciting turn of events follows reports that Ronaldo had stipulated conditions for renewing his contract with Al-Nassr, insisting the club bolster its roster to challenge the league’s elite, including powerhouses like Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad.