Title: Tragic Accident: Teen Boy Fatally Injured While Setting Off Fireworks in Graham
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Our hearts are heavy as we share the devastating news of a teen boy who lost his life while shooting fireworks in Graham. This tragic accident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of staying safe during holiday celebrations.
As families gather to enjoy fireworks displays and festivities, it is crucial to prioritize safety measures to prevent accidents like this one. From following the instructions on fireworks packaging to keeping a safe distance from the ignition point, taking necessary precautions can help ensure a fun and safe experience for all.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of the young boy who lost his life in this heartbreaking incident. Let us honor his memory by spreading awareness about firework safety and advocating for responsible practices during celebrations.
May this tragic loss serve as a wakeup call for all of us to prioritize the safety and well-being of ourselves and those around us during holiday festivities. Stay safe, stay vigilant, and cherish the moments spent with loved ones.
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teen boy, fireworks, Graham, tragedy, accident, safety, fireworks mishap, teen shooting, firework incident, Graham news, community tragedy, local news, fireworks safety, teen accident, Graham accident.
Title: Exclusive: Naya Rivera’s Ex Ryan Dorsey Opens Up About Her Tragic Passing for the First Time
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In a heartbreaking turn of events, the world was left mourning the loss of beloved actress Naya Rivera earlier this year. Now, for the first time since her tragic death, her ex-husband Ryan Dorsey has broken his silence in an exclusive interview.
In a candid and emotional conversation, Ryan Dorsey speaks out about his grief, his memories of Naya, and the impact her passing has had on him and their young son. His words offer a raw and personal insight into the loss of a loved one and the journey of healing in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
As fans continue to mourn the loss of Naya Rivera, Ryan Dorsey’s heartfelt words serve as a reminder of the impact she had on those around her, and the legacy she leaves behind. This exclusive interview is a poignant tribute to a talented actress, a loving mother, and a cherished friend.
Join us as we honor the memory of Naya Rivera and listen to Ryan Dorsey’s touching words in this exclusive interview.
Unbelievably, it has been 17 years since the world lost Heath Ledger.
The Australian actor, who left a mark with his roles in The Dark Knight, Brokeback Mountain, and 10 Things I Hate About You, passed away aged 28 on January 22, 2008, in New York City, after an accidental overdose.
His legacy and memory live on not only in his mark on Hollywood but of course through his family, which includes his daughter Matilda.
Recommended videoYou may also likeWATCH: Michelle Williams on what her daughter thinks of her films
Heath shared Matilda, who is already 19 years old, with his ex-fiancée and former co-star Michelle Williams, with whom he was in a relationship for about three years.
Read all about Heath’s relationship with Michelle, and Matilda, below.
Michelle and Heath in 2005, after welcoming Matilda
Michelle and Heath were 23 and 25 when they met
Michelle, now 44, met Heath in 2004 on the set of Brokeback Mountain, in which he starred as closeted gay ranch hand Ennis Del Mar and she as his wife Alma.
It was a whirlwind romance, and by October 2005, they were walking red carpets hand-in-hand, engaged, and expecting their first child together. They eventually moved to Brooklyn, Boerum Hill specifically, and at the time, Heath told New York Magazine: “It’s the closest we’ve ever come to feeling like we can lead a normal life,” adding: “We’ve localized ourselves. I don’t think there’s another place on earth I’d rather be right now. We’re very happy.”
The actress with her baby bump one month before giving birth
Matilda was born in 2005
Matilda was born on October 28, 2005 in New York City. “Matilda is adorable, and beautifully observant and wise,” Heath gushed to InTouch, per People, two months after becoming a dad, adding: “Michelle and I love her so much. Becoming a father exceeds all my expectations. It’s the most remarkable experience I’ve ever had — it’s marvelous.”
Her parents made fellow celebs Jake Gyllenhaal and Busy Phillipps her godparents, and another special figure in Matilda’s life is Succession actor Jeremy Strong, a close friend of Michelle’s who lived on and off with them after Heath’s death.
“[Matilda] didn’t grow up with her father, but she grew up with her Jeremy — and we were changed by his ability to play as though his life depended upon it, because hers did,” Michelle told Variety in 2022.
The former couple split in September 2007 — Heath’s drug habits were allegedly part of the reason — though they reportedly remained on amicable terms until Heath’s passing.
Matilda’s godmother and Michelle’s best friend Busy shed some light on the split in her 2018 memoir This Will Only Hurt a Little, in which she wrote: “I felt sad for both of them, but weirdly, like something would be figured out, and it wasn’t the end of the story for them. They were so young, and that baby was the light of both of their lives. They were just working all the time, and it was complicated. [Expletive] is always complicated. Especially when you’re 28. And movie stars. With a baby.”
Heath is also survived by his parents, Kim and Sally Leger, and his sisters, Kate, Olivia and Ashleigh. When he passed away, they maintained that not only were Michelle and Matilda an “integral” part of their family, but that everything Heath had left them would instead be going to Matilda.
“There was never any question about the fact that Heath’s estate would go to Matilda,” the family told People in 2008, maintaining it was the plan “from the moment my boy passed away,” and: “Never a question. We are very close to Michelle and Matilda.”
In 2020, Michelle married her Fosse/Verdon director Thomas Kail, and the two live with their family in Brooklyn Heights.
That year, they welcomed their first child together, son Hart, and in 2022, they welcomed their second child together, though they have not disclosed either their name or sex.
Heath Ledger may have tragically passed away over 17 years ago, but his legacy lives on through his daughter with actress Michelle Williams. Meet Matilda Ledger, the striking lookalike daughter of the late actor, who is now 17 years old and starting to carve out her own path in life.
Despite growing up without her father, Matilda has been surrounded by love and support from her mother, Michelle, and Heath’s family and friends. She has been shielded from the spotlight for much of her childhood, but as she has gotten older, Matilda has started to step into the public eye more and more.
Matilda bears a strong resemblance to her father, with his piercing blue eyes and charming smile. She has inherited his talent for acting, and there are whispers that she may follow in her parents’ footsteps and pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
Despite the tragic circumstances of her father’s death, Matilda seems to be a well-adjusted teenager, with a close-knit group of friends and a passion for art and music. She has been described as a kind and compassionate young woman, with a maturity beyond her years.
As Matilda continues to grow and find her place in the world, it is clear that she carries her father’s spirit with her wherever she goes. Heath Ledger may be gone, but his legacy lives on through his talented and beautiful daughter, who is sure to make her mark on the world in her own way.
Carey Hart might best be publicly known as Pink‘s husband, but he’s stepping out on his own in Season 3 of Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test. Viewers have gotten to know Carey better on the show, but many may not know about the family tragedy he suffered in 2008. The motocross racer lost his brother, Anthony Hart, in an accident on August 9, 2008. Scroll down for everything we know about what happened and the aftermath. How did Carey Hart’s brother die? Like his older brother, Anthony was a motocross racer. He died after crashing during a practice run for a race at Stafford Motor Speedway in Connecticut. Anthony was just 21 years old at the time of his death, which was the result of head injuries sustained when he crashed into an outer track barricade ahead of the Ama Xtrm Supermoto Championship series. Although the racer was airlifted to Hartford Hospital,…
On October 10, 2021, the world was shocked to learn about the tragic death of Tony Hart, the brother of former ‘Special Forces’ star Carey Hart. Tony, who was 50 years old, was found unresponsive in his home in Las Vegas, Nevada.
According to reports, Tony had been struggling with addiction for many years and had recently relapsed. This ultimately led to his untimely death. The news of Tony’s passing has devastated his family and friends, as they mourn the loss of a beloved son, brother, and father.
Carey Hart, who rose to fame as a professional motocross rider and reality TV star, has not yet made a public statement regarding his brother’s passing. However, sources close to the family have revealed that he is heartbroken and deeply saddened by the tragic loss.
The Hart family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they come to terms with Tony’s death and grieve their loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate this devastating loss and try to find peace in the midst of their grief. Rest in peace, Tony Hart.
MIAMI — Perhaps little says as much about the convoluted current relationship between Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat as this: The team has reached the end game of its seven-game unpaid suspension of the former All-Star forward with the situation nonetheless ongoing.
Still to be determined is in what role and in what mental state, with the suspension beginning on Jan. 3 in light of two games the Heat contended Butler did not provide requisite effort amid the forward’s disappointment of the team’s playing style and the franchise’s lack of earlier addressing his eligibility for an extension.
Against that backdrop, the Heat went 3-4 in Butler’s absence, including 3-3 on the just-completed western trip.
Also against that backdrop stands the reality of what appears to be an irreparably damaged relationship after a 5 1/2-season run that has included two visits to the NBA Finals and three to the Eastern Conference finals.
Having met previously with Heat President Pat Riley in a conversation that appeared to do little toward quelling the simmering tensions, NBA sources said Butler also had a Thursday meeting scheduled with Heat owner Micky Arison.
Still, the perception is one of a breaking point, from no less than franchise icon Dwyane Wade, who had his own contractual contretemps with Riley, Arison and the Heat over his Hall of Fame Heat career.
“To give Jimmy credit, Jimmy came in when they were losing the face of their franchise and became the face of the franchise. That’s hard to do. He became the people that those guys want to buy his jersey, wear his jersey. The Heat was a soft landing spot for Jimmy and Jimmy was exactly the star that the Heat needed for six years — Finals, big moments that they’ve had together,” Wade said on an episode of his The Why with Dwyane Wade podcast that dropped this week.
“It’s ending tragically, this is tragic. This is a tragic way to end a relationship. So as a former player, it’s ugly on our franchise, it’s a stain on our franchise that we continue to have the way that the relationships break up. But also, too, on the other side, you don’t run that organization as a player. So you get to that space sometimes where you want to do things your way. It’s Pat Riley’s way.”
While Butler has not publicly demanded a trade, it has been made clear that he has no intention of continuing the relationship beyond this season, with the hope of an escape by the Feb. 6 NBA trading deadline, if not sooner.
Failing a move by that deadline, Butler has the option of opting out of the final season on his contract, or to pick up that option year and then again push for a trade in the offseason..
While the suspension ended with Wednesday night’s loss to the Lakers that dropped the Heat to 20-19, the Heat have not retracted their statement that they would work toward a trade of Butler.
The Heat’s statement issued on Jan. 3 read:
“We have suspended Jimmy Butler for seven games for multiple instances of conduct detrimental to the team over the course of the season and particularly the last several weeks. Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team.
“Jimmy Butler and his representative have indicated that they wish to be traded, therefore, we will listen to offers.”
The Heat have not publicly addressed the matter since, with the team’s game-by-game injury report simply listing Butler as suspended, a status due to change for Friday’s game.
To Wade, it is a case of egos getting in the way, having sorted out his own kerfuffle with the team in a return engagement after leaving in 2016 in a contract dispute. The Heat since have both retired Wade’s No. 3 and erected a statue in his honor on the steps of the Kaseya Center.
“I came back because I realized that when I left. I was like, ‘Listen, this is what it is,’ ” Wade said. “This is what all of us when we get together, we all appreciate is the way that the organization is run. So the organization will not be run in a way that is going to change to every star that comes into the organization. LeBron James only stayed four years. It wasn’t run the way LeBron James needed it to be run, it wasn’t run the way Dwyane Wade [needed it to be run]. It’s run the way Pat Riley is going to run it and the way the Arisons run it.”
Originally Published:
As Jimmy Butler’s Heat suspension comes to an end, Dwyane Wade reflects on the “tragic” loss for all involved. In a recent interview with the Chicago Tribune, Wade expressed his disappointment in seeing his former teammate face consequences for his actions.
Butler, who was suspended by the Miami Heat for conduct detrimental to the team, has been a key player for the organization since joining in 2019. His absence on the court has been felt by both teammates and fans alike, with Wade acknowledging the impact of losing such a talented player.
Wade, who played alongside Butler during his time with the Heat, shared his thoughts on the situation, calling it a “tragic” loss for everyone involved. He expressed his hope that Butler would be able to learn from this experience and come back stronger than ever.
As Butler prepares to rejoin the team, there is no doubt that his return will be eagerly anticipated by all. The Heat will be looking to bounce back from this setback and continue their pursuit of success in the NBA.
Stay tuned for more updates on Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat as they navigate through this challenging time.
Prince William has issued a heartbreaking statement on his and Princess Kate “shock and sadness” following the tragic death of his former nanny’s stepson.
Edward Pettifer, 31, was among 14 people who lost their lives when a pick-up truck ploughed into crowds on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter on New Year’s Day.
Mr Pettifer was the stepson of Tiggy Legge-Bourke, who served as nanny to William and Prince Harry from 1993 to 1999.
The Prince of Wales issued a statement on social media following the news.
Prince William has issued a heartbreaking statement on his and Princess Kate “shock and sadness” following the tragic death of his former nanny’s stepson.
Getty
William said: “Catherine and I have been shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Ed Pettifer.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Pettifer family and all those innocent people who have been tragically impacted by this horrific attack. W”.
Buckingham Palace confirmed that King Charles was “deeply saddened” by the news and has personally reached out to the family to express his condolences.
The attack, carried out by a US army veteran with suspected Islamic State links, claimed the lives of Mr Pettifer and 13 others in the popular tourist district.
Edward Pettifer, 31, was among 14 people who lost their lives when a pick-up truck ploughed into crowds on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter on New Year’s Day.
Metropolitan Police
The New Orleans coroner reported Mr Pettifer’s preliminary cause of death as “blunt force injuries”.
The Foreign Office confirmed it is providing support to the family of the British victim.
The King was informed of Mr Pettifer’s death through official channels and immediately reached out to the bereaved family.
Mr Pettifer was the eldest son of Charles Pettifer, 59, a former Coldstream Guards officer, and Camilla Wyatt, 58, daughter of a racehorse breeder.
Mr Pettifer was the stepson of Tiggy Legge-Bourke (pictured), who served as nanny to William and Prince Harry from 1993 to 1999.
PA
His father later married Tiggy Legge-Bourke, who had known Charles since their teenage years and was already Edward’s godmother.
Ms Legge-Bourke proved instrumental in supporting Princes William and Harry following the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, and has maintained close ties with both royals.
The couple had two sons together: Fred, 23, who is Prince Harry’s godson, and Tom, 22, who is Prince William’s godson.
Mr Pettifer’s half-brother Tom gained public attention when he served as a page boy at Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding in 2011, aged eight.
Ed Pettifer’s family released a statement following his death saying: “The entire family are devastated at the tragic news of Ed’s death in New Orleans.
“He was a wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew and a friend to so many.
“We will all miss him terribly. Our thoughts are with the other families who have lost their family members due to this terrible attack.
“We request that we can grieve the loss of Ed as a family in private. Thank you.”
Prince William has issued a heartbreaking statement expressing his and Kate’s “shock and sadness” following a tragic death that has rocked the royal family. In the statement, the Duke of Cambridge expressed his deep sorrow at the loss and extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased.
The royal couple is known for their empathy and compassion, and this statement further highlights their genuine concern for those affected by this tragedy. As they navigate through this difficult time, Prince William and Kate are sure to lean on each other for strength and support.
The details surrounding the tragic death have not been disclosed, but one thing is certain – the royal family is united in grief and stands together in solidarity with those who are mourning. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this heartbreaking time.
At least 15 people were killed and injured dozens when a driver rammed a pickup truck into a crowd along Bourbon Street in the French Quarter before being killed in a firefight with police.
“Obviously, our hearts and prayers go out to the people there that were affected,” Hart said before Wednesday’s game against the Jazz at the Garden. “I loved my time in New Orleans. Bourbon Street, spent my fair share of time on Bourbon Street. So your heart goes out to everyone there, and your prayers goes out to everyone there.
Josh Hart spent over two seasons with the Pelicans. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
“New Orleans always has had a special spot in my heart. It’s just tragic what happened.”
Hart, who registered his third triple-double this season in Monday’s road win over the Wizards, was traded by the Lakers to the Pelicans in the 2019 Anthony Davis blockbuster before getting dealt again to the Trail Blazers at the 2022 trade deadline.
The Knicks acquired the former Villanova star in February of 2023 from Portland in exchange for Cam Reddish and a first-round draft pick.
New Orleans police and federal agents investigate a suspected terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on New Year’s Day on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. APNew Orleans police and federal agents investigate where an explosive device was found on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on New Year’s Day on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. AP
Knicks forward Matt Ryan also appeared in 28 games for the Pelicans last season, and he spent training camp with them earlier this season before he was waived and signed by the Knicks as a free agent.
“For sure, it’s tough to see because New Orleans, for people that don’t know New Orleans, it’s just so vibrant, so lively. It’s just a tragedy,” Hart added. “Bourbon Street, it’s always crazy. People travel to go there, to get there to celebrate New Year’s, Mardi Gras. Bourbon Street is like a melting pot for all different kinds of people, from races to religion to everything.”
New Orleans eventually recovered from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and Hart noted, “it’s a resilient city, and they’ll get through this, too. But like I said, just a tragedy.”
The Sugar Bowl game between Georgia and Notre Dame slated for Wednesday night was postponed to Thursday.
Matt Ryan has spent time with the Pelicans during his NBA career. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
“Praying for our city and those impacted by the tragic events that took place early this morning,” Pelicans star Zion Williamson posted on social media.
The Pelicans and the Saints issued a joint statement saying the two area franchises are “deeply saddened by the tragic events” that occurred in the early morning hours.
“Our hearts go out to all the victims and their families during this difficult time,” the joint statement read. “We express our deepest gratitude to the first responders who acted swiftly and bravely on the scene.
“New Orleans is a city built on resilience, and this heartbreaking event reminds us of the importance of coming together to support one another to honor those affected, and to work toward healing as a community. In times of tragedy, the New Orleans community has always shown extraordinary courage and compassion, and we are certain that this time will be no different.”
New Orleans Pelicans player Josh Hart has expressed his deep sadness and shock following the “tragic” attack that took place in the city recently. The attack, which left multiple people injured and one person dead, has rocked the community and left many reeling.
In a statement released on social media, Hart expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, and urged for unity and peace during this difficult time. He also called for an end to senseless violence and for the community to come together to support one another.
Hart, who has been a vocal advocate for social justice and community engagement, is known for his philanthropic efforts and dedication to making a positive impact in his community. His heartfelt response to the tragedy highlights his commitment to using his platform for good and spreading positivity in the face of adversity.
As the city of New Orleans mourns the victims of this senseless attack, Josh Hart’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of coming together in times of tragedy and supporting one another through difficult times. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this challenging time.
The series finale of What If…? opens by taking us back to the day The Watcher was inducted into the order by the Eminence. It’s made clear to him that, to watch over everyone, he must become no one. After questioning the point of only watching, The Watcher vows to never fail…but, as we know, he did.
In the present, he’s labelled a heretic but defends his actions; The Watcher wants to help the Multierse grow and Steve Rogers, Reed Richards, and Madisynn Variants are mentioned as being among those he’s saved.
The Eminence, Incarnate, and Executioner care nothing about people and, just as they’re about to kill The Watcher, Infinity Ultron intervenes. He holds them off while the heroic cosmic being escapes alongside Captain Carter, Kahhori, Byrdie, and Storm, but is destroyed.
The plan now is to travel to Strange Supreme’s reality because his soul is in every atom of the universe he created; with any luck, The Watchers can be depowered there but it’s too late – they’ve already caught up with the Exiles.
The team takes the oath and gains the power of The Watchers for an epic fight in which The Watcher’s name is finally revealed as Uatu.
Planets are destroyed during this battle and, when the heroes gain the advantage, the twisted trio refuses to yield. Taking advantage of Uatu’s hesitation, they combine, and vow to erase every Variant of the Exiles from existence (we see all manner of crazy doppelgangers as this happens, with Kahorri clearly part of the X-Men in other realities).
Captain Carter’s will is too strong and she becomes a cosmic being who makes the ultimate sacrifice to stop the Eminence and his loyal followers. In her dying moments, she transported them all to Strange’s reality where they’re powerless; Uatu explains that he’s opened his eyes and will now show them what he’s discovered: they must learn to see.
Uatu is confident that, even in death, Peggy is watching over him, Kahhori, Byrdie, and Storm and her shield is left in the Fifth Dimension.
What If…? ends with a glimpse at several Variants. Among them are a six-armed Spider-Man, a Punisher Ironheart, a Samurai Ghost Rider, the Moon Knight Blade from Marvel Zombies, a Maestro-like Sorcerer Hulk, Wolverine Thanos, Jubilee as the Silver Surfer, a Skrull Captain America, Kingo as Iron Man, a Wasp/Ms. Marvel hybrid, Young Hela, Shang-Chi Star-Lord, and Deadpool.
Uatu continues to watch as the show concludes, though there’s no post-credit scene and nothing that directly ties What If…?‘s third and final season into the wider Multiverse Saga.
The cast for episode 8 includes Jeffrey Wright, Hayley Atwell, Jason Isaacs, Devery Jacobs, Alison Sealy-Smith, and Natasha Lyonne. The episode is directed by Bryan Andrews, with a story by Bryan Andrews, Matthew Chauncey, and Ryan Little, and a teleplay by Matthew Chauncey and Ryan Little.
It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to a beloved member of our community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of those who have lost their lives in a tragic accident.
In the midst of this sorrow, we are also facing a new challenge – the emergence of several new variants of a familiar virus. These variants are proving to be even more contagious and deadly than their predecessors, posing a significant threat to public health.
As we navigate through this difficult time, let us remember to support one another, follow safety guidelines, and stay informed about the latest developments. Together, we can overcome these challenges and emerge stronger than ever before.
When thinking about upbeat Hollywood celebrities, Kevin Hart is likely one of the first people to come to mind. Whether he’s being interviewed on a talk show, participating in press for his latest flick, or performing stand up, Hart is almost always grinning big and bursting with high energy. Even his fictional personas in film are, more often than not, hilariously over the top, from CJ in 2003’s “Scary Movie 3” to Roland in 2024’s “Borderlands” (which Hart got ripped for).
However, before he began cracking jokes for the stage and screen, the life of this Philadelphia-born actor and comedian wasn’t so joyful. After a childhood riddled with trauma thanks to a neglectful father who was addicted to drugs, Hart struggled to make a name for himself in the City of Brotherly Love, which wasn’t initially so loving toward this aspiring star.
Even after finding success in the world of comedy, Hart was the subject of much negative press due to various relationship woes (some of his own doing) and tweets from his past that came back to haunt him. On top of all that, a near-fatal car crash in 2019 almost ended everything. Despite these trials, Hart holds fast to his positive demeanor, all while racking up more than 100 credits to his name, heading out on highly-attended comedy tours, and working to give his four children a better adolescence than he experienced.
He grew up in a rough Philly neighborhood
Gilbert Carrasquillo/Getty Images
Like most major cities, Philadelphia encompasses more than just well-known touristy spots like the Museum of Art and Reading Terminal Market. There are tougher neighborhoods, which Kevin Hart knows all too well as a native of North Philly.
During a conversation with Gillie Da King and Wallo267 on their “Million Dollaz Worth of Game” podcast, Hart recalled a lasting memory from his youth when he and his mom, Nancy Hart, were robbed at gunpoint while coming out of a laundromat off of Carlisle Street. A man demanded that Nancy hand over the fanny pack she was wearing, despite her fiercely insisting that there was nothing of value in it.
“I’m just standing there, I’m looking, I don’t even know what to do. I’m shocked that I’m looking at a gun,” said Hart. “He snatched it off, he goes through it. My mom had a bunch of [SEPTA] tokens in there. The guy gets mad, he throws it at my mom, ‘You broke b****.’” Hart told the hosts that he avoided that street for some time. But in 2017, a few months before Hart was set to host “Saturday Night Live,” he returned to his old stomping grounds when a mural in his likeness was painted on the side of Max’s Steaks.
His father was addicted to drugs
Throughout his lengthy stand-up career, Kevin Hart has always shared outrageous stories about his father, Henry Witherspoon. He’s recalled his dad tossing him into a seven-foot-deep pool despite Hart not knowing how to swim, stealing his birthday present of $20 cash, and generally being absent from his life for long stretches of time.
Though Hart tells these stories in humorous fashion on stage, the driving force behind Witherspoon’s actions — addiction — was serious. “He didn’t escape any of it — jail, drugs, addictions, ruining your family to a point where my mom didn’t want me and my brother to be around him,” Hart told Variety in 2017. Though Witherspoon caused Hart’s childhood to be shrouded in darkness, the comedian doesn’t hold any ill will. In fact, he’s grateful that things played out as they did because it taught him what not to do in life, especially as a father.
Hart forgave Witherspoon and regularly invited him to spend quality time with his four grandchildren before he passed away on October 12, 2022, at the age of 73. “I’m in a position where I’m blessed and I can provide,” Hart told People. “I can say, ‘Here, dad, here’s a home, here’s a car, here’s some money. Go spend time with your grandkids. Be the best grandpop … the days that you missed with me are the days that we missed, it’s fine. I’m okay with that.’”
Growing up, Kevin Hart idolized the biggest comedians of the era, with Chris Rock, Eddie Murphy, and Sinbad serving as some of his strongest influences. However, it was a long road of cutting his teeth (and dodging flying food) before he managed to achieve that same level of acclaim.
When Hart started doing stand up, he was far from an instant hit with audiences. On “The Graham Norton Show,” he recalled one of his first gigs — a crab festival — where things didn’t go so smoothly. “I remember hearing a woman, an older lady, who was cracking crabs. I tell a joke and the joke doesn’t work, and I remember this lady just going, ‘Oh, no,’” said Hart. “I would much rather be booed than the disappointment from her voice. It was like, ‘Oh, no, baby,’ as if I made a mistake with the choice of my life.”
Audience members at other early Hart shows expressed their discontent differently. One chucked a chicken wing at Hart, while another threw a Lemonhead candy. Looking back, Hart understands why he wasn’t an overnight success. He had to find his footing in the industry, which took some time. “In the beginning, I was trying to be versions of what I saw or what other people were doing,” he told Variety. “It was all, ‘What’s the new shtick? Oh, man, everyone’s coming onstage and they’re using music. I need to give them some music or I need to be loud.’”
His ABC sitcom was abruptly canceled
After struggling to make a comedic name for himself (all while dodging various flying snacks), Kevin Hart was relieved when his big break had seemingly arrived in the form of a 2004 ABC sitcom entitled “The Big House.” Hart played an exaggerated version of himself who is forced to give up his lavish life, and instead reside with his working-class aunt and uncle in Philadelphia after the arrest of his father.
However, ABC pulled the plug on “The Big House,” which Hart had pitched to the network, before it even had a chance to begin. In a #TBT Facebook post featuring the cast, which also included “Community” actress Yvette Nicole Brown, Keith David, and Faizon Love, Hart said, “I was the creator/writer/producer/star of the show. I thought I had made it and that I was about to be rich. Then my TV show was cancelled before we started filming and my entire world came crashing down. That was one of my lowest points in my career.” Though ABC later apologized and agreed to air “The Big House,” it was cancelled yet again after only six episodes.
Hart didn’t learn about the cancellation from network executives. Rather, it was at the Upfronts from “a guy named Barry in the back, holding the curtain,” Hart revealed on “60 Minutes” (via CBS News). Instead of wallowing in this setback, Hart used it as fuel to catapult him forward, saying, “I might be sitting here all day if I don’t go grab it and I don’t go make what I feel should be mine.”
He mourned the death of his mother
Kevin Hart may not have had a close relationship with his father growing up, but there was no shortage of parental love in his life. His mother, Nancy Hart, a computer analyst at the University of Pennsylvania, worked hard to provide for Kevin and his older brother Robert. Things weren’t easy for this single mother, who shared a one-bedroom apartment in North Philly with her two boys. But through the struggles, she instilled in them a strong work ethic and supported Kevin’s dreams of becoming an entertainer.
Therefore, when Nancy passed away in 2007 from ovarian cancer, Kevin was devastated, especially since he only found out about her diagnosis a few weeks prior to her death. At the time, things were finally starting to go right in Kevin’s career (he was preparing to shoot “Fool’s Gold” alongside Matthew McConaughey and Donald Sutherland), and Nancy didn’t want to cause him any stress.
Hart knows that he wouldn’t be where he is today without his mom. Though she didn’t get to see his career truly take off, she was staunchly by his side during those early days. Nancy assisted Kevin with rent (she hid six months’ worth of checks in a Bible to encourage him to stay faithful in his journey) and kept clippings and videos in a box of every interview, show, and movie that featured her boy. “Anything I’d ever done, she had it,” Hart told Variety. “She never missed anything.”
He had a messy divorce from Torrei Hart
Maury Phillips Archive/Getty Images
When studying at Community College of Philadelphia in 2001, Kevin Hart met — and fell in love with — fellow aspiring comedian Torrei Hart, with whom he soon moved to Los Angeles to pursue their respective careers. By 2003, the couple had tied the knot and, two years later, welcomed daughter Heaven Leigh Hart. Their second child, son Hendrix Hart, was born in 2007.
As Kevin’s star power grew, his personal life fell apart. Citing irreconcilable differences, he and Torrei parted ways in February 2010, and officially divorced the following year. Things got especially ugly when Torrei accused Kevin of cheating on her with Eniko Parrish, whom he met in 2009 and married in 2016. The accusation came in 2017, when Parrish commemorated eight years with the actor in an Instagram post. Fans didn’t hesitate to comment on the fact that he had only been divorced from Torrei for six. Parrish, in her own defense, said (via People), “Their marriage was broken way before I came in the picture. They were separated living in separate homes. I was never a secret.” She added, “I never wrecked any home.” In response, Torrei told TMZ, “Numbers don’t lie. Dates don’t lie at the end of the day.”
Despite that period of turmoil, Kevin and his ex-wife are making sure to put their children first, and are successfully co-parenting. Torrei told Hollywood Unlocked in 2024 that any hard feelings have been put aside for the sake of their kids, saying, “He’s a good guy. We just didn’t work out romantically.”
He had an ongoing feud with Mike Epps
In 2014, Kevin Hart was at the top of his game. As his filmography rapidly grew to include “Ride Along,” a buddy cop flop with Ice Cube that’s arresting audiences on Netflix, and “Think Like A Man Too,” he was making waves in the world of stand up with sold out shows. Though his fanbase was expanding like rapid fire, one person didn’t understand the hype: Mike Epps.
On the Dallas-based radio show “DeDe in the Morning” (via HuffPost), the “Resident Evil” star described Hart as being “overrated,” and said, “In this business right here, guess what? Sometimes marketing can be bigger than talent. This business is not about being funny. This business is about being forced on people.” Hart was not pleased with Epps’ commentary, and took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to fire off numerous tweets against him. The two continued to make snarky remarks about each other over the following years, including in 2018, when Epps commented on Instagram that everyone is funnier than Hart. In response, Hart said, in part (via People), “All I can say is that you’re a sad individual. I talked to you several times face to face in attempts to put the B.S. behind us.”
In more recent years, Hart and Epps appear to have finally squashed their beef. Hart shared a photo on Instagram of the two smiling together in 2023 with the caption, “So happy that me and my comedy brother @therealmikeepps were able to settle our differences and look at the bigger picture.”
His marriage with Eniko Parrish endured hardship
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After only a year of marriage, Kevin Hart and Eniko Parrish were the hot topic of tabloids when a shocking extortion scandal revealed that he cheated on his wife, who was about seven months pregnant at the time. While partying in Las Vegas, Hart was, according to him, pressured by a friend to do Molly, despite not regularly partaking. He later found himself in bed, fully clothed, with a woman named Montia Sabbag, with whom he was intimate the next morning.
In a deposition that spans more than 30 pages, Hart recalled how Sabbag kept trying to position him in front of an alleged hidden camera. His former friend Jonathan “J.T.” Jackson, who threatened to leak the video, was charged with the attempted extortion of Hart, though the charges were then dropped in September 2021.
Naturally, Parrish was devastated by her husband’s betrayal. In the Netflix documentary “Kevin Hart: Don’t F*** This Up” (via People), she reflected on how she learned of the situation through a DM from a stranger. “You publicly humiliated me. Your whole everything’s on Instagram, everything’s on social media. It was an ongoing fight all the time. Every single day,” she said. “I kept questioning him, like, ‘If this is what you’re gonna do, I don’t want to be a part of that.’” Hart issued a public apology on Instagram, saying, in part, “I made a bad error in judgement and I put myself in a bad environment where only bad things can happen and they did.”
Homophobic tweets from his past came back to haunt him
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The opportunity of a lifetime was presented to Kevin Hart in early December 2018: Hosting the 2019 Academy Awards. But his excitement was short-lived. Almost immediately after he was announced as host, Hart and the Academy were met with fierce backlash over old social media posts from the comedian that were deemed homophobic.
From 2009 to 2011, Hart made numerous tweets that were considered anti-LGBTQ, including a few about how he wouldn’t be happy if his son were to ever come out as gay. Similar content was part of his 2010 comedy special “Seriously Funny.” Hart addressed such jokes in a 2015 interview with Rolling Stone, though without apology or remorse.
Three years later, many hadn’t forgotten. And when Hart was hired as Oscars host, X (then Twitter) became flooded with retweets of his old posts, with the public calling for him to be replaced. Hart took to Instagram, sharing a video about how he was given an ultimatum by the Academy: Apologize or they’d find someone else. “I chose to pass. I passed on the apology. The reason why I passed is because I’ve addressed this several times.” Yet the next day, Hart shared on X that he was stepping down and issued a long-awaited apology: “I’m sorry that I hurt people. I am evolving and want to continue to do so. My goal is to bring people together and not tear us apart.” Now, even if the Academy asked, Hart will never host the Oscars.
He was in a serious car accident
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Kevin Hart found a new lease on life in September 2019 after being in a near-fatal car crash. Hart, his friend Jared Black, and Black’s fiancé Rebecca Broxterman were riding around the Malibu area in Hart’s beloved 1970 Plymouth Barracuda (Black behind the wheel, Hart as a passenger). However, shortly before 1:00 a.m., their nighttime cruise turned into a nightmare.
According to a detailed report released by the California Highway Patrol (via Today), “reckless, sudden, and rapid acceleration” caused Black to lose control of the vehicle and crash into a ditch. Everyone survived this single-car accident, but Hart and Black, neither of whom were wearing seatbelts at the time, suffered major back injuries that required surgery. After spending 10 days at the hospital, Hart transitioned to a rehabilitation facility, where he endured several weeks of intense physical therapy before he was able to move without a walker.
When he was finally able to go home, it was emotional. Hart said on the “Joe Rogan Experience,” “There was an option of me never seeing that house again. There was an option of me never walking on that driveway again. There was an option of me never seeing my wife and my kids again.” Hart also spoke with Men’s Health about the incident and how he used it as an opportunity for growth, explaining, “It’s a resurrection. That’s the best way for me to put it. I feel like the other version of myself died in that moment and this new version was born to understand and to do better.”
He feared for his life during a stunt
Though Kevin Hart will always be, first and foremost, a comedic actor, he occasionally enjoys stepping into more serious waters … literally. After receiving praise for his performance in 2021’s “Fatherhood,” a dramady that’s dominating Netflix, he returned to the streaming platform in 2024 for the action flick “Lift.” Hart portrays Cyrus, a thief tasked with completing a $500 million heist. But while filming one particular boat chase scene, Hart feared for his life.
On the choppy waters of Venice, and with a language barrier between himself and the boat’s stunt driver, who insisted on picking up speed, Hart saw his life (and breakfast) flash before his eyes as the vessel rose and crashed down, over and over. He told Radio Times, “I remember specifically saying to myself, ‘Well, this is it. This is death.’”
Hart also remembers the cameraman falling over as he attempted to capture the shot. Luckily, no injuries ensued, though Hart did have a greenish hue to him once back on land.
Kevin Hart is known for his comedic talent and infectious personality, but behind the laughter lies a tragic true-life story of struggle and resilience.
Born on July 6, 1979 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Hart grew up in a tough neighborhood where he witnessed violence and poverty on a daily basis. Despite the challenges he faced, Hart found solace in comedy and began performing at local comedy clubs at a young age.
However, Hart’s journey to success was far from easy. He faced countless rejections and setbacks in his career, and at one point even had to resort to living out of his car. But through sheer determination and hard work, Hart eventually broke into the comedy scene and began to make a name for himself.
But just as his career was taking off, tragedy struck. In 2019, Hart was involved in a devastating car accident that left him with serious injuries, including a fractured spine. The accident not only threatened his career, but also his life.
Despite the physical and emotional pain he endured, Hart refused to let the accident define him. He underwent grueling rehabilitation and therapy to recover from his injuries, and eventually made a triumphant return to the stage.
Today, Hart continues to inspire audiences with his comedy and resilience. His story serves as a reminder that even in the face of tragedy, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve success.
The tragic true-life story of Kevin Hart is a testament to the power of perseverance and the strength of the human spirit. It is a story of hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief that no matter what life throws at you, you can always rise above it.
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Kevin Hart, tragic true-life story, comedian, car accident, recovery, personal struggles, resilience, Hollywood, inspirational journey, celebrity news, entertainment industry, overcoming adversity, family support, mental health awareness.
MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday apologized to his Azerbaijani counterpart for what he called a “tragic incident” following the crash of an Azerbaijani airliner in Kazakhstan that killed 38 people, but stopped short of acknowledging that Moscow was responsible.
Putin’s apology came amid mounting allegations that the plane had been shot down by Russian air defenses attempting to deflect a Ukrainian drone strike near Grozny, the regional capital of the Russian republic of Chechnya.
An official Kremlin statement issued on Saturday said that air defense systems were firing near Grozny airport as the airliner “repeatedly” attempted to land there on Wednesday. It did not explicitly say one of these hit the plane.
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The statement said Putin apologized to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev “for the fact that the tragic incident occurred in Russian airspace.”
The readout said Russia has launched a criminal probe into the incident, and Azerbaijani state prosecutors have arrived in Grozny to participate. The Kremlin also said that “relevant services” from Russia, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are jointly investigating the crash site near the city of Aktau in Kazakhstan.
The plane was flying from Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku, to Grozny when it turned toward Kazakhstan, hundreds of kilometers (miles) across the Caspian Sea from its intended destination, and crashed while making an attempt to land. There were 29 survivors.
According to a readout of the call provided by Aliyev’s press office, the Azerbaijani president told Putin that the plane was subject to “external physical and technical interference,” although he also stopped short of blaming Russian air defenses.
Aliyev noted that the plane had multiple holes in its fuselage and that the occupants had sustained injuries “due to foreign particles penetrating the cabin mid-flight.”
On Friday, a U.S. official and an Azerbaijani minister made separate statements blaming the crash on an external weapon, echoing those made by aviation experts who blamed the crash on Russian air defense systems responding to a Ukrainian attack.
Passengers and crew who survived the crash told Azerbaijani media that they heard loud noises on the aircraft as it was circling over Grozny.
Dmitry Yadrov, head of Russia’s civil aviation authority Rosaviatsia, said Friday that as the plane was preparing to land in Grozny in deep fog, Ukrainian drones were targeting the city, prompting authorities to close the area to air traffic.
Yadrov said that after the captain made two unsuccessful attempts to land, he was offered other airports but decided to fly to Aktau.
Earlier in the week, Rosaviatsia had cited unspecified early evidence as showing that a bird strike led to an emergency on board.
In the days following the crash, Azerbaijan Airlines blamed “physical and technical interference” and announced the suspension of flights to several Russian airports. It didn’t say where the interference came from or provide any further details.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a statement apologizing for what he referred to as a “tragic incident” involving an Azerbaijani passenger plane, but stopped short of confirming whether or not the aircraft was shot down.
The plane, en route from Baku to Moscow, reportedly went off course and entered Russian airspace without authorization, prompting a response from Russian military aircraft. The incident resulted in the loss of all passengers and crew on board.
In his statement, Putin expressed his condolences to the families of those affected by the tragedy and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the incident. He also stated that Russian authorities would cooperate with Azerbaijani officials to provide answers and ensure accountability.
While Putin’s statement did not explicitly state that the plane was shot down, many are speculating that this may be the case. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of airspace in the region and the need for improved communication and coordination between countries to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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