Celebrity deaths

Subterms

    Latest story

    250 Shares

    Four family members of beloved gospel group The Nelons among 7 killed in horror plane crash on route to concert

    by

    THE Nelons – America’s beloved gospel family – have been involved in a fatal plane crash on route to a concert.Seven people died in the horror accident including four members of the family in Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, their daughter Amber and son-in-law Nathan Kistler.Jason Clark (Far left) Kelly Nelon Clark (Middle right) and Amber Nelon Clark (Far right) all died in the horror plane crashCredit: GettyThe family were still performing together after being inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016Credit: GettyMembers of the family were heading to Alaska to join in with the Gaither Homecoming Cruise when their plane crashed over WyomingCredit: GettyThe families assistant Melodi Hodges, and the pilot Larry Haynie and his wife Melissa also died.The group’s fourth member, Autumn Nelon Streetman, wasn’t on the plane at the time.Members of the band were heading to Alaska to join in with the Gaither Homecoming Cruise when their plane crashed over Wyoming.The plane reportedly went up in flames when it crashed leaving fire crews and emergency responders rushing to the scene as a wildfire broke out. There were no survivors, say the Wyoming sheriff’s office.Autumn Nelon Streetman released a statement on the tragedy saying: “As many of you have heard by now, my father and mother, Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with my sister, Amber, and brother-in-law, Nathan, as well as our dear friends Melodi Hodges, Larry, and Melissa Haynie, were involved in a tragic plane crash on Friday. “Thank you for the prayers that have been extended already to me, my husband, Jamie, and our soon-to-be-born baby boy, as well as Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark. “We appreciate your continued prayers, love, and support as we navigate the coming days.”Most read in EntertainmentA video taken moments before they boarded the doomed plane shows a smiling Jason talking to his family and the pilot on a runway in Nebraska. The jet was a Pilatus PC-12/47E owned by Haynie Enterprises, according to Flightaware.com.The National Transportation Safety Board is now set to investigate the crash.Widely regarded as one of the iconic families in US gospel history The Nelons were inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016.Some of their biggest hits include I Shall Not Be Moved, Come Morning and We Shall Wear a Robe and Crown.They have also earned three Grammy nominations throughout their career.Some of their biggest hits include I Shall Not Be Moved, Come Morning and We Shall Wear a Robe and CrownCredit: Getty More

    More stories

    • 213 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Ysanne Churchman dead: ‘Wonderful’ BBC actress who starred in The Archers dies aged 99 after 50-year career

      by

      THE Archers star Ysanne Churchman has died at the age of 99 after a career spanning 50 years.The actress, who voiced Grace Archer in the Radio 4 drama in the 1950s, died peacefully at home on July 4, a statement from the BBC on behalf of her family said.The Archers star Ysanne Churchman has died at the age of 99Credit: AlamyShe voiced Grace Archer in the Radio 4 drama in the 1950sCredit: Times Newspapers LtdChurchman’s second cousin Anne Kilby described her as “always elegant” and added that she loved to speak about her career.She said: “Ysanne was a warm and friendly person, charming to meet and always elegant.”During her last years she was looked after by a dedicated team of carers and for her last four years she had 24-hour care.”She was still able to enjoy visits from friends and always enjoyed reminiscing about her career, often in quite a humorous way.Read more Showbiz News”As children, my sisters and I thought of her as our glamorous grown-up cousin. Now we remember her with pride and affection.”Churchman married Tony Pilgrim, who worked at the BBC, in 1951. According to her family, Pilgrim had first seen her picture “outside a theatre in the West End”.They said he took a copy which he “carried in his wallet hoping he would one day meet her”.Ysanne’s most famous moment came on September 22, 1955, when 20million listeners tuned in to hear the character of Grace tragically died in her husband’s arms after she tried to rescue a horse from a barn fire.Most read in ShowbizHer character’s death coincided with the launch of rival broadcaster ITV, which led to suggestions the BBC killed off Grace to deliberately overshadow ITV’s opening night.The Archers’ current editor Jeremy Howe said: “We are saddened by the death of Ysanne Churchman, whose role as the inimitable Grace Archer captured the nation.”In the 1950s, Ysanne was at the heart of one of Ambridge’s most shocking storylines, with listeners so distraught at her character’s death they subsequently jammed BBC switchboards.”Ysanne was a wonderful actress and off-air she campaigned tirelessly for equal pay for women in the industry.”She will be much missed by all at The Archers and our hearts are with her friends and family.”The 2015 radio play Dead Girls Tell No Tales, released to coincide with the 60th anniversary of Grace’s death, explored the storyline that had long been considered a “watershed moment”.Sean O’Connor, who edited the long-running radio drama between 2013 and 2016, dismissed the suggestion that Grace’s death was a tactic against ITV.He told the Radio Times: “That is the folklore I inherited, and is what most of the people on the show believe, apart from the senior executives who knew the truth.”But there were slightly different versions of that truth, some of them more melodramatic than others.”Writing in The Times following Churchman’s death, O’Connor recounted a meeting with the actress, where she had departed “the whole truth and nothing but the truth” as she saw it.O’Connor wrote: “Grace’s death was nothing to do with the launch of ITV or the dwindling number of radio licences.”She explained that the editor and creator of the programme, Godfrey Baseley, had a personal vendetta against her.”Her departure from the programme was a result of what we would now regard as workplace bullying.”And Ysanne revealed it was “victimisation because I’d been to Equity to get my fees put right”.”But don’t feel too sorry for me,” she added. “In some ways Godfrey Baseley may even have done me a favour.”They say that when one door shuts another opens. And on the very night Grace died, ITV started, and immediately needed people with just exactly my experience to voice the commercials.”And so I was able to make a good living from voiceovers for years.”Following the exit of Grace from The Archers, Ysanne continued to work for the BBC in radio and TV.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe reappeared in The Archers in various roles until the 1980s but not as Grace.Ysanne also voiced the character of Alpha Centauri in Doctor Who in the early 1970s.The actress died peacefully at home on July 4Her character tragically died in her husband’s arms after she tried to rescue a horse from a barn fireCredit: Times Newspapers LtdThe cast of the radio show The Archers celebrate 21 years on the air in 1971Credit: Getty More

    • 188 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Danny O’Donoghue reveals sad reason he quit alcohol for good and why he’s started therapy

      by

      DANNY O’DONOGHUE has told how the death of his The Script bandmate Mark Sheehan drove him to finally go sober – and rediscover the church.Danny, frontman for the Irish rockers, spent years abusing alcohol but hit the bottle big time after Mark passed away from a short illness in April last year.Mark Sheehan’s tragic passing drove Danny O’Donoghue to finally get soberCredit: GettyThat resulted in an extremely boozy Christmas back home in Ireland, which then gave him the kick he needed to clean up his act.Danny said: “I’ve never been into hard drugs but I smoked a bit over the years, but alcohol was a big one and depression was a massive one.“Because Mark passed away, I’ve had this epiphany, I guess. I called a therapist straight away.”Recalling the moment he realised he needed to fix things, he added: “I said, ‘If I stay in Dublin much longer, this is just so bad for me’. I cut it short, went home to the UK where I have my studio and where my girlfriend lives.READ MORE ON THE SCRIPT“I said, ‘That’s it, I’m finished drinking, I’m finished smoking, I’m finished with any stimulant like caffeine – anything’.“That was 27th December. I gave up everything that day. On top of that, I bit the bullet and I went back to church.”Danny, whose band’s new album Satellites is out next month, also told the How To Fail podcast about his faith and belief in something greater.He said: “When you’re a teenager and in your twenties, it’s sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll, and that’s the last thing you’re thinking of.Most read in BizarreHe added: “I know that I’m smart enough to know that I’m dumb enough to know that I’ll never know.”The Script spotted in popular Glasgow pub as they perform ‘secret’ gig for adoring fansKendall pose is daylight robberyKendall Jenner lies around by the pool in a see-through Latex dressCredit: Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott / Vogue FranceKendall poses in a slinky silver number while lifting a boulder above her headCredit: Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott / Vogue FranceKendall Jenner knocks spots off the competition on the cover of Vogue FranceCredit: Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott / Vogue FranceKENDALL JENNER is doing exactly what I love to do when it’s hot and sticky outside – lie around by a pool.Unlike me, she wrapped herself up in a see-through Latex dress, which is far more revealing than my swimsuits – and far sweatier. But it didn’t stop her getting into a series of poses for Vogue France.In one, she hoisted a huge boulder aloft, while rocking a slinky silver number by the sea. And she knocked spots off the competition on the front page in a polka dot bikini.Kendall is determined to ensure her career will last for decades. She told the magazine: “I dream, above all, of longevity. Even when I’m older, I hope people will still think of me. I’d like to stay in the limelight as the years go by.”Speaking about where she sees herself in ten years, she added: “I would love to have a family, become a mother and have children.”Pete: I”m still an addictHE has overcome battles with drink and drugs, but The Who’s Pete Townshend has revealed he is hooked on online shopping.The guitarist said: “I go on Amazon and I buy things that I’ve already got. I don’t know why I do that. It’s an encumbrance. I’ve got an electric toothbrush, why did I buy another one?“I think everybody is an addict, so I don’t blame addiction on anything but the fact I’m a human being.“So if I have addictions now, and I think I do, although they’re not alcohol and drugs, it’s because I’m a human being. I need dopamine.”Pete, right, who has been sober for over 30 years, believes the glorification of drink and drugs in the group’s heyday led to stars dying prematurely.His bandmates Keith Moon and John Entwistle both died from accidental drug overdoses.He told the What It Takes podcast: “Keith, in one show in San Francisco, he took two elephant tranquillisers before he got on stage to perform with us.“Literally, went one, two, three, four, and collapsed. The idea that it was all a fantastic game . . . “I just drank. I had an experience later in life with drugs, I had my little stab at it, but it was a very short period.“As of today, I haven’t drunk alcohol for nearly 32 years.”Jen’s riding out the stormJennifer Lopez cycles away from divorce rumours on a break in The HamptonsCredit: TheImageDirect.comJENNIFER LOPEZ leaves her troubles in the dust as she cycles away from divorce rumours on a break in New York holiday spot The Hamptons.Maybe I’m a cynic, but I think the only reason J-Lo and Ben Affleck haven’t shut the marriage speculation down is because it takes the heat off her comeback tour flopping so badly she had to cancel it.Someone give Bennifer’s publicity team a pay rise.Get Japan festival for freeGIVEN how bloody expensive gig tickets are these days, it can be a nightmare trying to watch your favourite artists live.So it’s great that as official supporters of the Fuji Rock Festival this weekend, Amazon Music is livestreaming acts including The Killers, Fontaines DC, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Teddy Swims and The Last Dinner Party.Fans around the world will be able to tune in on Prime Video and Amazon Music to watch the action from the Naeba Ski Resort in Japan from Friday to Sunday.If you already subscribe, it’ll be in your package. If not, you can sign up for a free trial.Just don’t forget to cancel.Bum’s the word… it’s a glass actGlass Animals released their new album I Love You So F***ing MuchCredit: GettyFans can get their hands and bums on cassette copy toilet seat lidsCredit: SuppliedMOST acts aim for a No1 with a new album, but Glass Animals are going for a No2.The Brit four-piece released I Love You So F***ing Much on Friday and have now turned three cassette copies into toilet seat lids – which fans can get their hands, and bums, on.They have already shifted two online for £1,100 each.The third will be given away at random to anyone who orders a CD, cassette or vinyl from their online shop before the end of today.The see-through lid, which has the cassette suspended in the middle, was made by artist Bailey Hikawa in Los Angeles.A description on the band’s website says: “Highest quality durable resin that will last a lifetime.“It’s pretty much a family heirloom that you can pass down to your kids.”If you say so, lads.Perfect time for BlossomsBLOSSOMS have dropped new single Perfect Me, which will be on album Gary, out on September 20.Singer Tom Ogden and co are in good company, as Pixies have also released their latest song, Chicken, from The Night The Zombies Came, which will be released on October 25.Pixies’ world tour arrives in the UK on August 20, with a first stop in Glasgow before they play All Points East festival in London and Victorious festival in Portsmouth over the following few days.Arriving tomorrow, Kamille’s new single Freak will be available to stream. The funky track is taken from her upcoming project K2.Riri has a smalls secretRihanna looks like she dashed through a jumble sale – but still pulls it ofCredit: GettyI DON’T know how she does it, but Rihanna comes across as effortlessly cool in practically anything.She looked like she had dashed through a jumble sale to put together this outfit, but still pulled it off.It turns out she does think about her outfits quite carefully, though – right down to the smalls detail.Rihanna wrote on Instagram: “Since I clearly won’t be achieving my six-pack till next summer, I switched my summer goal to matching my shoes to my panties!”I doubt I could even achieve that.lSHE went in disguise in this hat, sunglasses and silver bomber jacket, but there was no mistaking Lady Gaga while she was out and about in Paris.The singer is expected to be one of the star performers at the Olympics opening ceremony, which is set to kick off at 5.45pm on BBC One on Friday.That’s not the only thing making this week special for Gaga – the trailer for her movie Joker 2: Folie A Deux premiered on Tuesday and racked up more than nine million views in its first 24 hours.The film, due out in October, will see her play The Joker’s girlfriend, Harley Quinn, and even belt out a tune.CHER is so iconic she needs TWO memoirs to tell the story of her life.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Believe singer has announced Cher: The Memoir, Part One will go on sale on November 19 after years in the making.But after struggling to fit everything in, it will be followed at a later date by a second instalment. More

    • 263 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Who are John Mayall’s six children? What we know about the blues musician’s kids Gaz, Jason, Tracey, Ben, Zak & Samson

      by

      GODFATHER of the British blues John Mayall has died aged 90.Mayall was surrounded by his family at his home in California where his six children grieve the loss of their father. But who are they and what do we know about them?John Mayall with his wife first wife Pamela and their four children Tracey, Jason, Gary and BenedictCredit: GETTYWho are John Mayall’s six children?Musician John Mayall OBE – whose influential band the Bluesbreakers was a springboard for stars including Eric Clapton – died at his home in California on Monday, 21 July, 2024. Mayall is survived by his six children, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, the family statement said.”He is also surrounded with love by his previous wives, Pamela and Maggie, his devoted secretary, Jane, and his close friends,” it added.”We, the Mayall family, cannot thank his fans and long list of band members enough for the support and love we were blessed to experience secondhand over the last six decades.”READ MORE FROM SHOWBIZGaz Mayall is the blues legend eldest sonGarry ‘Gaz’ MayallGarry ‘Gaz’ Mayall is the eldest son of the blues legend John Mayall. He moved to London with his dad in 1962 and he now lives in Kensal Green, West London.Gaz is part of a ska band The Trojans and after a few guest appearances at the Two-Tone club, Oxford Street in 1979, decided to start a club of his own.In summer 1980 he set up Gaz’s Rockin’ Blues; London’s longest running club night. The establishment is said to be a favourite of Meghan Markle growing up.Most read in MusicTo pay homage to the 30th anniversary of the club night, a book called Gaz’s Rockin’ Blues was released.Being the first-born son of a musician came with many benefits. Gaz attended almost every pop & rock festival throughout the sixties as a child.He is been lifelong fan of reggae and began collecting ska records when he was 17-years-old.It is estimated that he owns over 10,000 records.Jason Mayall is the second son of John MayallCredit: InstagramJason MayallJason Mayall, aka ‘The Cumbia Kid’ is a DJ and the director of Smash corporation.Established in 1984, Smash promotes concerts and headline tours with the aim of introducing an array of acts from around the globe to Japanese audiences.Smash’s summer festival began in 1997, and is Asia’s biggest outdoor music event. It is held annually in the mountains of Naeba, Niigata.Jason has also booked several tours for Japanese artists in the UK, namely the amazing Shibusashirazu and formidable Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra shows at Glastonbury. John’s son spends a lot of his time in Colombia championing “Cumbia”, the traditional dance music of Columbia.Musician John Mayall married his second wife Maggie Mayall who was 20 years his juniorTracey MayallTracey Mayall is the daughter of the blues legend, and his first wife Pamela.She shared her father’s love of music and had a particular penchant for robotic dancing.In the early 1980’s Tracey was part of a dance group called Sketch, that was made up of her and Dee and Fritz, the two boys.She later left the group and they renamed themselves Flex.John Mayall’s children have inherited his love of musicCredit: GETTYBenedict MayallBenedict ‘Big Ben’ Mayall is a Nigerian bass player. He is the adopted son of John Mayall and Pamela.Ben occasionally featured in his brothers band The Trojans. His most notable contribution was a reggae song entitled ‘Earth First,’ that was released in 1997.The Bluesbreakers was a training ground for Eric Clapton, Mick Fleetwood and many other superstarsCredit: Associated PressZak MayallZak Mayall is a skateboarder from California. On his Instagram @sk8erdun he shared a heartfelt message following his father’s death.He wrote: “With a heavy heart I say age is just a number but all things must come to an end.”He lived by his own rules rigid and set in his ways from when he was a young adult who was rocketed to stardom until he stepped off the stage 2 years ago. “90 is a number that can’t convey the richness of his life experience, 40 I’ve been along for the ride. “I personally reassured him of his impact on every one of my friends that was his fan as well as on the rest of my enormous family that has blossomed in his legacy. “Goodnight Bluesman 1933 – 2024.”John Mayall continued to perform up to the age of 88Credit: GETTYSamson MayallSamson is John’s youngest son who he shared with his second wife Maggie Parker.Samson’s mum is also a blues musician. In 1978, Maggie met John and joined his backing band. They later married and had two sons together, Samson and his elder brother Zak.READ MORE SUN STORIESSamson shares his birth date with his legendary father. In an extract taken from November 29, 1994 entry in John’s journal he wrote: “My best birthday of 61 years because the decision we’d made was it was to be Samson’s birthday as well.”John Mayall is survived by six children, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildrenCredit: Getty More

    • 238 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Who is John Mayall’s ex-wife Maggie? What we know about the late Bluesbreakers & ‘godfather of blues’ former spouse

      by

      BLUESBREAKERS legend John Mayall passed away at his California home on July 22, 2024.Here we get to know the ex-wife of “the godfather of blues” — Maggie Mayall — who has also enjoyed a successful career in the music business.Maggie Mayall performing at the Palomino Club in North Hollywood, California on April 5, 1986Credit: GettyWho is John Mayall’s ex-wife Maggie?Maggie Mayall is a blues musician from Chicago, as well as the ex-wife of the late great John Mayall.Born Maggie Parker, she was on tour with guitarist Harvey Mandel in 1978 when she met John Mayall.She then went on the road with Mayall’s band as a featured singer, songwriter and percussionist.She started an all-woman blues band in 1986 called Maggie Mayall & The Cadillacs, featuring Debbie Davies on guitar.READ MORE ON MUSICThey had a successful run touring the American west coast.Maggie later joined a rock-comedy group called The Housewives, which appeared on live TV — including the Oprah Winfrey Show — as well as doing the club circuit.She also started her own record label in 2000 called Private Stash Records.Maggie started singing blues songs when she was about 14 in the seventies in Chicago, playing acoustic guitar in coffee shops.Most read in MusicIn 2012, when asked about her influences and why she got into blues, Maggie told Blues.gr that the genre had “universal appeal”.She revealed that “there are no secrets about blues music” adding that she “grew up listening to all kinds of music”.All music is about expressing the human condition. The highs, the lows, the good, the bad, the meaning, the joy, the pain of life!Maggie MayallBlues.grShe said “I was trained in musical theatre, in classical. I loved the popular music of my time, which was the sixties. “I loved Big Mama Thornton, Paul Butterfield Blues Band and some old traditional blues material, along with folk music too.”She added: “I must tell you that blues was not the only genre of music that I loved or participated in. I love all music.””Blues has a universal appeal to it that is easily recognised by an audience. I am always taking risks. That is my philosophy about music and about lifeMaggie MayallBlues.gr”So, as a performer, blues is a great vehicle to communicate with your audience. Blues music is relatable.”All music is about expressing the human condition. The highs, the lows, the good, the bad, the meaning, the joy, the pain of life!”I don’t limit myself. I am always taking risks. That is my philosophy about music and about life.”When did John Mayall marry Maggie?Maggie was John’s second wife.His first wife was named Pamela, but there is very little information about her available in the public domain.John and Maggie got married in 1982.The Bluesbreakers musician died on July 22, 2024, at the age of 90.In the statement released following John’s passing, both of his wives were mentioned.It read: “Health issues that forced John to end his epic touring career have finally led to peace for one of this world’s greatest road warriors.“John Mayall gave us 90 years of tireless efforts to educate, inspire and entertain…Maggie Mayall is a singer, songwriter and percussionist who also managed her husband’s musical career“John is survived by his 6 children, Gaz, Jason, Red, Ben, Zak and Samson, 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.“He is also surrounded with love by his previous wives, Pamela and Maggie, his devoted secretary, Jane, and his close friends.“We, the Mayall family, cannot thank his fans and long-list of band members enough for the support and love we were blessed to experience secondhand over the last six decades.”How long were John Mayall and Maggie together for?John and Maggie divorced after 30 years of marriage.They were together for 33 years.They had two sons together, Zak and Samson.When did John Mayall and ex-wife Maggie divorce?Mayall and Maggie divorced in 2011.READ MORE SUN STORIESSince the early eighties, Maggie took part in the management of her husband’s career.She continued to manage John even after the couple divorced. More

    • 225 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      John Mayall dead: ‘Godfather of British blues’ who helped discover Eric Clapton & Mick Fleetwood dies aged 90

      by

      BRITISH blues legend John Mayall has died aged 90.His influential band the Bluesbreakers was a training ground for Eric Clapton, Mick Fleetwood and many other superstars.John Mayall performs on stage at Teatro Nuevo Apolo in Madrid, SpainCredit: RedfernsMayall performs during the 42nd Montreux Jazz Festival in Montreux, SwitzerlandCredit: APMayall performs in Munich, Germany in 1969Credit: APMayall in London in 1971Credit: GettyA statement on Mayall’s Instagram page announced his death yesterday, saying the musician died on Monday at his home in California.“Health issues that forced John to end his epic touring career have finally led to peace for one of this world’s greatest road warriors,” the post said.Nicknamed the Godfather of British Blues, the musician is credited with helping develop the UK take on urban, Chicago-style rhythm and blues that played an important role in the genre’s revival in the late 1960s.At various times, his band included Fleetwood Mac members Fleetwood, John McVie and Peter Green, as well as Clapton and Jack Bruce, later of Cream, and also Mick Taylor of the Rolling Stones.Read more showbiz newsMayall protested in interviews that he was not a talent scout, but played for the love of the music he had first heard on his father’s 78-rpm records.“I’m a band leader and I know what I want to play in my band — who can be good friends of mine,” Mayall said in an interview with the Southern Vermont Review. “It’s definitely a family. It’s a small kind of thing really.”Mayall never achieved the fame of many others who performed with him and was still performing into his late 80s.Most read in Showbiz“I’ve never had a hit record, I never won a Grammy Award, and Rolling Stone has never done a piece about me,” he said in an interview with the Santa Barbara Independent in 2013. “I’m still an underground performer.”Known for his blues harmonica and keyboard playing, Mayall had a Grammy nomination for “Wake Up Call” which featured guest artists Buddy Guy, Mavis Staples, Mick Taylor and Albert Collins.He received a second nomination in 2022 for his album “The Sun Is Shining Down”.He also won official recognition in Britain with the award of an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in 2005.He was selected for the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class and his 1966 album “Blues Breakers With Eric Clapton” is considered one of the best British blues albums.Mayall was born on November 29, 1933 in Macclesfield, near Manchester.Sounding a note of the hard-luck bluesman, Mayall once said: “The only reason I was born in Macclesfield was because my father was a drinker, and that’s where his favorite pub was.”His father also played guitar and banjo, and his records of boogie-woogie piano captivated his teenage son.Mayall said he learned to play the piano one hand at a time — a year on the left hand, a year on the right, “so I wouldn’t get all tangled up”.The piano was his main instrument, though he also performed on guitar and harmonica, as well as singing in a distinctive, strained-sounding voice. Aided only by drummer Keef Hartley, Mayall played all the other instruments for his 1967 album ‘Blues Alone’.When he moved to London in 1962 his aim was to soak up the nascent blues scene led by Alexis Korner and Cyril Davies. Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Eric Burdon were among others drawn to the sound.The Bluesbreakers drew on a fluid community of musicians who drifted in and out of various bands. Mayall’s biggest catch was Clapton, who had quit the Yardbirds and joined the Bluesbreakers in 1965 because he was unhappy with the Yardbirds’ commercial direction.Mayall and Clapton shared a passion for Chicago blues, and the guitarist later remembered that Mayall had “the most incredible collection of records I had ever seen”.Mayall tolerated Clapton’s waywardness: He disappeared a few months after joining the band, then reappeared later the same year, sidelining the newly arrived Peter Green, then left for good in 1966 with Bruce to form Cream, which rocketed to commercial success, leaving Mayall far behind.Clapton, interviewed for a BBC documentary on Mayall in 2003, confessed that “to a certain extent I have used his hospitality, used his band and his reputation to launch my own career”.“I think he is a great musician. I just admire and respect his steadfastness,” Clapton added.Mayall encouraged Clapton to sing and urged Green to develop his song-writing abilities.Mick Taylor, who succeeded Green as a Bluesbreaker in the late 1960s, valued the wide latitude which Mayall allowed his soloists.“You’d have complete freedom to do whatever you wanted,” Taylor said in a 1979 interview with writer Jas Obrecht. “You could make as many mistakes as you wanted, too.”Mayall’s 1968 album ‘Blues from Laurel Canyon’ signalled a permanent move to the US and a change in direction. He disbanded the Bluesbreakers and worked with two guitars and drums.The following year he released ‘The Turning Point’ arguably his most successful release, with an atypical four-man acoustic lineup including Mark and Almond. ‘Room to Move’, a song from that album, was a frequent audience favourite in Mayall’s later career.The 1970s found Mayall at low ebb personally, but still touring and doing more than 100 shows a year.“Throughout the ’70s, I performed most of my shows drunk,” Mayall said in an interview with Dan Ouellette for Down Beat magazine in 1990. One consequence was an attempt to jump from a balcony into a swimming pool that missed — shattering one of Mayall’s heels and leaving him with a limp.“That was one incident that got me to stop drinking,” Mayall said.In 1982, he reformed the Bluesbreakers, recruiting Taylor and McVie, but after two years the personnel changed again. READ MORE SUN STORIESIn 2008, Mayall announced that he was permanently retiring the Bluesbreaker name, and in 2013 he was leading the John Mayall Band.Mayall and his second wife, Maggie, divorced in 2011 after 30 years of marriage. They had two sons.The Bluesbreakers in 1966 in London: Mayall, Hughie Flint, Eric Clapton and John McVieCredit: Michael Ochs Archives – Getty More

    • 238 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Clint Eastwood’s partner Christina Sandera’s cause of death revealed as heart attack days after she died at age 61

      by

      THE cause of death of Clint Eastwood’s longtime girlfriend has been revealed.Christina Sandera’s death at the age of 61 was addressed by her A-list partner last week in a statement.Christina Sandera’s cause of death has been revealed just a few days after her passingCredit: Getty Images – GettySandera died at the age of 61Credit: Getty”Christina was a lovely, caring woman, and I will miss her very much,” Eastwood, 94, said on July 18.On Wednesday, a representative from the Monterey County Health Department confirmed that Sandera died of a heart attack, per The New York Post.A death certificate listed her immediate cause of death as cardiac arrhythmia, an irregularity in a heartbeat’s timing or pattern.But Sandera also had atherosclerotic coronary artery disease listed as an additional cause of death.After his initial statement, a spokesperson for Warner Bros. told the press that Eastwood would grieve privately. Eastwood and Sandera met in 2014 at the actor’s Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, restaurant and began dating shortly after.At the time, Sandera was working as a hostess at the restaurant. The couple quickly hit it off and were together until Sandera’s death.Most read in CelebrityHOLLYWOOD STAREastwood was previously married twice, to model Maggie Johnson from 1953 to 1984 and news anchor Dina Ruiz from 1996 to 2014.He had also been in several long-term relationships with his fellow actors, including Titanic actress Frances Fisher.Clint Eastwood attends the 20th Annual AFI awardsThe actor is also a father to eight children and recently walked his youngest child, Morgan, down the aisle at her wedding.Morgan paid tribute to Sandera on her Instagram, posting a picture from her recent nuptials – held at the same location her father met Sandera.”A devastating loss for our whole family,” Morgan wrote. “Thank you Christina for being a good partner to my Dad you will be greatly missed.”Christina was a lovely, caring woman, and I will miss her very much.Clint EastwoodPRIVATE LIFEUnlike her movie star partner, there isn’t much known about Sandera or her relationship with Eastwood.The couple kept a low profile throughout their decade-long relationship. Sandera attended many high-profile events with Eastwood such as the Academy Awards, however, she chose to stay out of the spotlight. She didn’t have a social media presence and never spoke about her relationship with Eastwood publicly.However, Sandera appeared to be close with Eastwood’s children, joining the actor and three of his children at the premiere of his film The Mule in 2018. In May 2020, Eastwood’s son, Scott Eastwood, told Access Hollywood that the blended family made plans to celebrate his father’s 90th birthday.”We’re going to do just a family thing,” Scott said at the time.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Very calm, very mellow. He doesn’t like birthdays. He’s just sort of like, ‘I don’t want to do birthdays.'”We’ll sneak a cake in there, definitely. He probably won’t like it, but we’ll put one in.”The couple kept quiet about their relationshipCredit: GettySandera attended many high-profile events with Eastwood and spent time with his childrenCredit: Getty More

    • 188 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Rock legend Slash reveals his devastation after stepdaughter, 25, dies as he cancels tour dates

      by

      GUITAR hero Slash has been left devastated by the death of his stepdaughter, Lucy-Bleu Knight.The Guns N’ Roses rocker, 58, shared the tragic family news on Instagram overnight in a brief statement.Slash’s stepdaughter Lucy-Bleu Knight has died aged 25Credit: Instagram / @lulubleuuThe rock star released a statement on Instagram overnightCredit: Instagram / @meeganhodgesSlash is one of rock music’s most famous facesCredit: RedfernsIt read: “Lucy-Bleu Knight (December 6, 1998), beloved daughter of Meegan Hodges and Mark Knight, stepdaughter of Samantha Somers Knight and Slash, sister of Scarlet Knight, stepsister of London and Cash Hudson, passed away peacefully in Los Angeles, CA on July 19, 2024.”Lucy-Bleu was an incredibly talented artist, a passionate dreamer, and a charming, lovable, sweet soul.”The family asks for privacy at this time and requests that social media speculation be kept to a minimum as they grieve and process this devastating loss.”Celebrity friends and fans paid their respects in the comment section.READ MORE ON ROCK MUSICDave Grohl’s daughter Violet said: “My heart hurts for you guys.all the love to your family rn.”Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea commented: “oh man, god bless.”Slash’s GnR bandmate Duff McKagan’s wife Susan shared: “words cannot express our deepest sympathy and condolences. love you all so much.”Lucy had over 35,000 followers on Instagram and is said to have worked at Electric Lady Management – the talent arm of the legendary recording studio.Most read in CelebritySlash first dated Lucy’s mum Meegan in the late 80s during Guns’ heyday, but it wasn’t until 2015 – three years before his divorce from ex-wife Perla – that he and Meegan rekindled their romance.Just hours before the statement about Lucy, Slash cancelled four dates of his solo S.E.R.P.E.N.T Tour citing “unforeseen circumstances”.Black Eyed Peas rock with SlashGigs set to take place this week in Ohio, Michigan and Ontario were all affected.The post read: “The S.E.R.P.E.N.T tour will resume in Toronto on July 28, 2024 at Budweiser Stage.”We love our fans and apologize for any inconvenience this has caused.”Slash is one of the most recognisable figures in rock music thanks to his emotive guitar solos and iconic top hat.He quit Guns in the early 90s after growing upset with frontman Axl Rose’s repeated lateness at concerts, among other disagreements.He went on to form Velvet Revolver in the early noughties with ex-bandmates Matt Sorum, McKagan, Wasted Youth’s Dave Kushner and the late Stone Temple Pilots frontman Scott Weiland.They put out two albums prior to Weiland’s death from an accidental drug overdose in 2015.Slash has featured on the work of countless artists and released four records with Alter Bridge frontman Myles Kennedy.His latest solo record, Orgy of the Damned, pays homage to some all-time blues classics and features guest performances from The Black Crowes’ Chris Robinson and AC/DC’s Brian Johnson.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe rocker is also back with his Guns bandmates, having patched up their differences, and they are one of the most profitable acts on the live circuit.The musician has cancelled four dates of his tourCredit: GettySlash’s cancelled tour dates after stepdaughter’s deathIn the hours before Lucy-Bleu’s death was made public, Slash released this statement on Instagram:”Due to unforeseen circumstances, the S.E.R.P.E.N.T tour regrettably has to cancel the below performances. Refunds will be available at points of purchase.July 22 – Cincinnati, OH – PNC Pavilion at RiverbendJuly 24 – Interlochen, MI – Interlochen Center for the ArtsJuly 25 – Huber Heights, OH – Rose Music CenterJuly 27 – Windsor, ON – The Colosseum at Caesars WindsorThe S.E.R.P.E.N.T tour will resume in Toronto on July 28, 2024 at Budweiser Stage.We love our fans and apologize for any inconvenience this has caused.Tickets for all remaining dates are available now at https://www.serpentfestival.com/” More

    • 213 Shares

      in entertainment and celebrities

      Clint Eastwood’s partner Christina Sandera dead at 61 as actor cries ‘I will miss her very much’

      by

      CLINT Eastwood’s longtime companion, Christina Sandera, has died at the age of 61.Christina and Clint started dating in 2014, shortly after meeting at his Carmel-by-the-Sea restaurant.Director Clint Eastwood and Christina Sandera at the 87th Annual Academy Awards in 2015Credit: GettyClint Eastwood and Christina Sandera at the Warner Bros. Pictures premiere of Richard Jewell at AFI Fest 2019Credit: GettyChristina Sandera and Clint Eastwood attend the Sully New York premiereCredit: GettyClint and Christina first met at his Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.Sandera was working at the restaurant as a hostess.The duo hit it off, and they had been dating for the last decade.“Christina was a lovely, caring woman, and I will miss her very much,” Clint Eastwood said in a statement released Thursday night. A Warner Bros. spokesperson told the press that Clint would not be releasing any additional information on Christina’s death as he grieves the loss privately. Clint Eastwood and Christina Sandera attend the premiere of The 15:17 to Paris on February 5, 2018Credit: GettyClint Eastwood and Christina Sandera attend the 87th Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood & Highland Center on February 22, 2015, in Hollywood, CaliforniaCredit: GettyBefore dating Christina, Clint had been married twice, to model Maggie Johnson from 1953 to 1987 and to news anchor Dina Ruiz from 1996 to 2004.He’s also had several long-term – and high-profile – relationships with some of his fellow Hollywood stars, including Titanic actress Frances Fisher and his The Gauntlet co-star, Sondra Locke.The Hollywood icon also has a large family, including eight children.Most read in CelebrityHe recently walked his youngest child, daughter Morgan, down the aisle at her wedding.Along with Morgan, Clint’s also a dad to sons Kyle and Scott, and daughters Laurie, Kimber, Alison, Kathryn, and Francesca. Clint Eastwood attends the 20th Annual AFI awardsHis oldest child, Laurie, was born in 1954, while his youngest, Morgan, was born in 1996.Little is known about Clint Eastwood and Christina Sandera’s relationship, as the couple were relatively low-key over the last decade.Despite attending several high-profile events together, including the Academy Awards, Christina tended to shy away from the spotlight.She had no public social media channels and never spoke publicly about their relationship.Christina was a lovely, caring woman …Clint Eastwood”There are other people that are involved there and they’re vulnerable people,” Clint told CBS News in 2004, as reported by People. “I can protect myself, but they can’t,” he added. Despite their shocking 33-year age gap, Clint, who turned 94 on May 31, and Christina found common ground. The duo were occasionally spotted running errands together, like a grocery run back in June 2014. Christina was also at Clint’s side at the 2015 Oscars, a screening of Clint’s film, Sully, in 2016, and at the Cannes Film Festival in 2017.In 2018, she even attended the premiere of Clint’s film, The Mule, along with a few of his children, his first wife, and his granddaughter. READ MORE SUN STORIESClint’s latest Hollywood venture, Juror No. 2, is currently in postproduction.The project marks his 40th film as a director and his first film since Cry Macho, released in 2021.Clint Eastwood and Christina Sandera at the Sully New York premiere in 2016Credit: GettyClint Eastwood and Christina Sandera attend a screening of Sully on September 8, 2016, in Los Angeles, CaliforniaCredit: Getty More