In an emotional and heartfelt YouTube video, prominent TikTok influencers Nicky Champa and Pierre Boo, explained why they broke up after almost a year of marriage. Known for their transparency on social media, the couple discussed the complexities of their relationship, the strain of social media, and the reasons behind their decision to part ways.
Nicky and Pierre, who had each amassed over millions of followers on social media by sharing their life together, acknowledged the impact of their separation on their fanbase. “I think we both believe that we owed you guys this video as a closure for everyone, for us too,” Pierre stated, highlighting the close connection they shared with their followers.
Nicky and Pierre: Navigating Social Media Fame
The couple admitted the challenges they faced due to their online fame. Nicky remarked, “There’s this misconception that social media destroyed our relationship, which I don’t think is true … it complicated it.” Yet, despite the intricacies, they felt a sense of responsibility. “We felt responsible for what we’ve created, what we’ve built together,” Pierre added.
Pierre revealed his personal coping mechanism amidst this change. “I took a break from social media, that was my way to process. We’re humans, we just all cope differently,” he said. This pause provided them both space for reflection, leading to a difficult yet important decision. “We have broken up. It’s official … In order to keep growing, we’re making that decision that we both believe is positive because it is in order for us to both keep growing and thrive in this life,” Pierre confirmed.
Nicky elaborated on the growth aspect, “You know when you meet somebody, you meet them at a certain point in life … at a certain point you start to either grow even closer to each other or you go away.” He further noted the importance of prioritizing oneself, “You have to pick yourself first and I think right now we’re both picking ourselves first.”
The love and respect between them remained palpable despite their decision. Nicky emotionally thanked Pierre, “I just want to say thank you for helping me become the man that I am.” He went on to acknowledge their fans, “We owe a huge thank you, not only did you guys give us the opportunities that you gave us, but you … gave us a platform that we both very much cherished.”
Love and Respect Amidst Separation
Despite the pain of separation, they found strength in their experience. Nicky reflected, “When you reach a level of love that I feel like we found, it’s almost like you love that person enough to let them go and vice versa.” Echoing this sentiment, Pierre encouraged their viewers to be brave, “If there’s one thing about love and relationships, don’t be afraid. Jump into it because you’ll leave with so much knowledge and so much more.”
Their shared narrative served as a reminder that they, like anyone else, were susceptible to the ups and downs of relationships. Pierre concluded, “We were just a couple, couples break up. That happens and at the end of the day we were no different than any others.”
By sharing their story, Nicky and Pierre provided insights into the delicate intersection of personal relationships and social media fame. Their candid discussion offered lessons on understanding, growing, and self-love, giving their followers a poignant reflection on love, relationships, and the human need for personal growth.
Watch Nicky and Pierre’s “we broke up” YouTube Video
Renowned for his spine-chilling roles in the American Horror Story franchise, Cody Fern recently caused a sensation for a more seductive reason.
Cody Fern’s Journey in the Ryan Murphy Universe
The Australian actor has made quite a name for himself as a charismatic king of screams in the Ryan Murphy universe. He’s been the antichrist in American Horror Story: Apocalypse, evaded a camp slasher in American Horror Story: 1984, and masterminded a plot to replace humans with aliens in American Horror Story: Double Feature.
A Revealing Post that Sends Fans Into a Frenzy
However, earlier this week, Fern set pulses racing with a tantalizing Instagram post. The 35-year-old actor, dressed in nothing but his birthday suit, left fans breathless with his sultry selfie showing off his well-toned body.
Cody Fern Teases Fans with a Photo Carousel on Instagram
Fern cleverly hid the risqué image within a carousel of photos, starting off innocently with him appreciating a bouquet of flowers. His caption, “It’s not that serious after all,” gave no hint about the captivating surprise waiting for his loyal fans as they swiped through the photos.
instagram.com/codyferninstagram.com/codyfern
Fans React to Fern’s Provocative Post
A jaw-dropping third image greeted unsuspecting followers, leading to one fan commenting, “Um please drop a warning on the 3rd pic, I fainted in Target”. Another fan declared dramatically, “THE THIRD PIC I THINK HE WANTS ME DEAD”.
instagram.com/codyfern
Fern’s Personal and Professional Life: An Overview
Fern’s current relationship status is unclear, but he previously had an association with model and social media influencer Eric Smith.
Professionally, fans are waiting eagerly for Fern’s big screen return. He is set to star alongside Adam Lambert and Scoot McNairy in Fairyland, a film adaptation of Alysia Abbott’s memoir. Directed by Andrew Durham, the film tells a heartfelt family story set against the backdrop of the LGBTQ+ liberation movement in San Francisco in the 1970s.
Looking Forward to Fairyland and Beyond
The release date for Fairyland has not been announced yet, but the film has already garnered high praise and holds a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
In the meantime, Fern’s admirers have his captivating Instagram page to enjoy.
Social Media Stars Nicky Champa and Pierre Amaury Crespeau Split
Social media influencers Nicky Champa and Pierre Amaury Crespeau have ended their relationship, just less than a year after their August 2022 wedding.
The couple, who had been a pair since 2017, made the mutual decision to split after being together for almost six and a half years.
Nicky and Pierre: The Pressures of Being a Social Media Couple
“With social media, it’s a bit complicated. Our relationship became a brand,” Champa, 27, told Out in an exclusive interview. “I want to say I have nothing but love and respect for this person. I spent my entire twenties with this person. I grew up with this person. He’s a very special person and will always remain that way for me.”
Citing the nine-year age difference with 36-year-old Crespeau and the pressures of their high-profile social media presence, Champa noted these were contributing factors to their breakup.
Life in the Public Eye: Nicky and Pierre
“I think as you age, you kind of realize different things,” he explained. “Then on top of it, the social media aspect of it and people constantly comparing ourselves to each other and the pressure of maintaining this image. It almost became, I would tell people, like a Black Mirror episode.”
Personal Growth and the Decision to Split
“It was almost like I felt trapped within an ideology of what we’ve become,” Champa added. “I can only speak for myself. I lost myself in this relationship, incredibly. I sacrificed a lot for this relationship. I dedicated myself to this relationship and the brand that we were building. I think that at this stage in my life, I had to choose me and pick me first. And I think [Pierre] had to do the same, and that’s the direction we’re heading in.”
Earlier today, Crespeau confirmed the split on his Instagram Stories, simply writing “We broke up.”
The TikTok Couple: Gaining Popularity and Followers
Best known for their individual TikTok channels, boasting 13.3 million followers for Champa and 13.7 million followers for Crespeau at the time of writing, they gained popularity by sharing their day-to-day experiences and travels as a gay couple. They also have a shared YouTube account with nearly 2.5 million subscribers.
Nicky and Pierre for Fenty
New Beginnings: Career Focus Post-Breakup
In the wake of their split, the duo will no longer collaborate on content creation, with both influencers refocusing on different stages of their careers.
“I will be continuing my own process,” Champa said. “I recently started working with CAA (Creative Artists Agency) and I want to focus more on acting and modeling. So that’s my pursuit and also social media on top of it.
Finding His Own Voice: Champa’s Future Goals
“I think my biggest goal is to find my voice,” Champa stated. “I think that for a long time I was kind of shadowed by the brand that we created and I didn’t have the platform or space to be myself. That’s what my focus will be going forward.”
FAQs about Nicky and Pierre‘s Breakup
Who are Nicky and Pierre?
Nicky Champa and Pierre Amaury Crespeau are prominent social media influencers known for sharing their lives as a couple on TikTok and YouTube. They gained significant followings on these platforms, with 13.3 million and 13.7 million followers respectively on TikTok, and nearly 2.5 million subscribers on their shared YouTube channel.
When did Nicky Champa and Pierre Boo get married?
The couple tied the knot in August 2022.
How long were Nicky and Pierre together?
Nicky Champa and Pierre Amaury Crespeau were together for nearly six and a half years. They started dating in 2017.
Why did Nicky Champa and Pierre Boo break up?
In an exclusive interview with Out, Champa mentioned the complications that arose from their relationship becoming a “brand.” He cited the pressures of their high-profile social media presence and their nine-year age gap as contributing factors to the breakup.
Will Nicky and Pierre keep making content together?
No, Champa has stated that they will no longer be creating content together after their breakup.
The much-anticipated Red, White & Royal Blue Trailer has finally made its magnificent debut. PEOPLEand Entertainment Weekly have exclusively premiered the first glimpse of this upcoming Prime Video rom-com, adapted from Casey McQuiston’s bestselling 2019 novel.
The Story Behind the Red, White & Royal Blue Trailer
The captivating tale revolves around the persistent feud—and eventual romance—between Alex Claremont-Diaz, portrayed by Taylor Zakhar Perez, and the UK’s fictional Prince Henry, played by Nicholas Galitzine. Supporting these central characters is Uma Thurman, starring as the US President, Ellen Claremont.
Alex and Prince Henry maintain a “total disdain for each other,” culminating in a “disastrous—and very public—altercation at a royal event,” posing a threat to the international relations between the two nations “at the worst possible time,” as per the film’s synopsis.
Their families and handlers, seeking to mitigate the damage, thrust the two adversaries into a contrived ‘truce.’ However, Alex and Henry’s frosty relationship surprisingly starts melting into a tentative friendship, sparking an unforeseen depth of feelings.
Ensure you don’t miss an update by signing up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter, offering the best of PEOPLE from celebrity news to captivating human-interest stories.
Bringing the Prince Henry and Alex to Life
Perez, 31, describes the film to PEOPLE as “a classic fairy tale with a twist for all generations,” with the hope that viewers derive “joy” after watching it. His character Alex is “driven by ambition and strives for success in everything he does,” he shares. Alex is “willing to stand up for what he believes in and is fiercely loyal to his family and friends. He’s also incredibly stubborn, impulsive and impatient.”
Discussing how he and Galitzine, 28, developed the onscreen chemistry, Perez attributes it to trust and vulnerability. He adds, “We were lucky to have rehearsals and many meals together before we began our first day of filming. We both knew we had a lot on our shoulders, given the success of the book, and that was a big motivation for us to be locked in at all times.”
Bringing the Red, White & Royal Blue to the Big Screen
The film, written and directed by Tony Award-winning playwright Matthew López in his directorial debut, also boasts author McQuiston, 32, as an executive producer. Ted Malawer contributed as a co-writer.
López, 46, commends Perez and Galitzine, saying, “They each embody their characters so perfectly while also working effortlessly as a team.” He praises Nick for bringing “a tremendous amount of vulnerability and dignity to Henry,” and lauds Taylor for turning “himself into a human cannonball in order to bring Alex to life.”
Beyond Perez, Galitzine, and Thurman, the cast of Red, White & Royal Blue includes Clifton Collins Jr., Sarah Shahi, Rachel Hilson, Stephen Fry, Ellie Bamber, Thomas Flynn, Malcolm Atobrah, Akshay Khanna, Sharon D Clarke, Aneesh Sheth, and Juan Castano.
Shahi, 43, describes her decision to join the film as a “no-brainer,” confessing that she “fell in love with” the screenplay. She plays Zahra, President Claremont’s deputy chief of staff and right-hand woman. “I was floored by the dialogue,” she expresses, “It didn’t matter that it was a gay love story—it was a bottomless well of relatability.”
The Red, White & Royal Blue starts streaming on Prime Video from August 11.
Watch the First Red, White & Royal Blue Trailer
Based on the New York Times bestseller, Red, White & Royal Blue centers around Alex, the president’s son, and Britain’s Prince Henry whose long-running feud threatens to drive a wedge in U.S./British relations. When the rivals are forced into a staged truce, their icy relationship begins to thaw and the friction between them sparks something deeper than they ever expected.
The US Coast Guard has announced the discovery of “presumed human remains” within the debris of the ill-fated Titan submersible. The collected wreckage pieces from the Titan, which tragically imploded during a deep-sea expedition to the Titanic, arrived for unloading in St John’s, Canada, this Wednesday.
Titan Sub’s Components Recovered
Investigators identified the submersible’s landing frame and rear cover among the recovered fragments. As stated by the coast guard, US medical professionals now have the task of conducting a detailed analysis on these suspected remains.
Investigation Initiated into the Catastrophe
The authorities are at the inception of a comprehensive investigation to decode the causative factors of this disaster. The evidence will be transported to a US port by the Marine Board of Investigation (MBI) of the Coast Guard for further scrutiny and testing.
“There is still a substantial amount of work to be done to understand the factors that led to the catastrophic loss of the Titan and help ensure a similar tragedy does not occur again,” said MBI chair Capt. Jason Neubauer in a statement. He also expressed gratitude for the coordinated international support that enabled the recovery and preservation of this critical evidence despite the extreme offshore distances and depths.
Tragic Loss of Life on the Titan
All five people on board the vessel tragically lost their lives on June 18 after it imploded about 90 minutes into the expedition to explore the famous 1912 shipwreck, located at a depth of 3,800m (12,500ft) in the north Atlantic. The victims included the head of OceanGate, Stockton Rush; British explorer Hamish Harding, Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman Dawood, and French diver Paul-Henry Nargeolet.
The U.S Coast Guard has recovered what they describe as human remains from the Titan submersible debris. NBC News’ Ron Allen reports.
Uncertain Prospects of Recovering Bodies
Officials initially held skepticism about recovering any bodies due to the harsh environment at the seafloor. “This is an incredibly unforgiving environment down there,” stated Coast Guard Adm John Mauger following the confirmation of the vessel’s loss. Cpt Neubauer assured that investigators would exercise “all precautions” upon the discovery of human remains and that the investigation would likely encompass a formal hearing with witness testimony.
Screengrab / CBS Boston
Major Pieces of the Titan Recovered
According to the coast guard, rescuers discovered five substantial parts of the Titan submersible in a large debris field near the Titanic’s bow.
Concerns About OceanGate’s Safety Practices
OceanGate, which managed the expedition, has come under scrutiny for its safety measures, and previous employees have expressed concerns about the Titan sub, which was not subject to regulation. BBC has revealed email exchanges where Mr. Rush dismissed safety worries from an expert, accusing them of hindering innovation. A former OceanGate employee also noted “numerous issues that posed serious safety concerns” in an inspection report, including the hull’s testing methods.
OceanGate stated in a previous week that it’s “an extremely sad time for our employees who are exhausted and grieving deeply over this loss”.
FAQs about the Human Remains Found in the Titan Submersible
What did the US Coast Guard find in the Titan Submersible wreckage?
The US Coast Guard found presumed human remains amidst the wreckage of the Titan submersible.
Where were the remains and debris of the Titan submersible found?
Authorities found the debris of the Titan submersible and suspected remains in the North Atlantic, near the wreck site of the Titanic. Later, they unloaded these materials in St John’s, Canada.
Who is in charge of investigating the Titan submersible disaster?
The US Coast Guard’s Marine Board of Investigation (MBI) is leading the investigation into the incident.
Who were the victims of the Titan submersible implosion?
Five individuals, tragically perished in the disaster. The victims included OceanGate’s head Stockton Rush and British explorer Hamish Harding. As well as Shahzada Dawood with his son Suleman, and French diver Paul-Henry Nargeolet.
Was there any controversy surrounding the safety practices of OceanGate, the company that managed the expedition?
Yes, OceanGate faced criticism regarding its safety measures. Several former employees raised concerns about the Titan submersible, which was not subject to regulation. Some of these concerns included issues related to the testing of the hull.
Have authorities identified the human remains with the Titan sub debris?
As of now, the US Coast Guard has stated that they have found “presumed human remains.” US medical professionals are conducting a formal analysis of these remains to confirm their identities.
Are there photos of the human remains from the Titan submersible?
No, photos of the presumed human remains from the Titan submersible haven’t been released. The U.S Coast Guard respects the victims and their families. They don’t publicize such sensitive images. Photos of the debris field assist in the investigation. However, images of human remains are used privately for formal analyses.
The military branch, US Coast Guard, announced on Wednesday that they have retrieved what are believed to be human remains from the ocean floor, located within the debris field of the Titan submersible. A comprehensive analysis will be conducted on these recovered materials.
Screengrab / CBS Boston
The Tragedy of the Titan Submersible
In light of the recent tragedy that unfolded in the depths of the North Atlantic, where the submersible Titan imploded during a mission to the Titanic wreckage site, questions have arisen about the fate of the bodies of the five men who were tragically lost.
Ocean’s Extreme Environment: A Grave Like No Other
The bodies of the Titan crew, submerged at the chilling depth of 12,500 feet underwater, are subjected to an incredibly unforgiving environment. Recognizing the unique conditions of this final resting place – extreme cold, intense pressure, and complete darkness – provides context to their fate.
The Titan Implosion: Immediate Aftermath
In the case of the Titan disaster, after the implosion of the submersible, the bodies of the crew were likely subjected to instantaneous trauma due to the sudden and dramatic pressure change. The subsequent steps in their journey involve settling into the deep-sea environment.
Deep-sea Decomposition: A Slow Process
Over time, the bodies will decompose in a process distinctly different from terrestrial decomposition. Factors like the low temperatures, high pressure, and absence of sunlight play pivotal roles in this deep-sea decomposition process.
Role of Scavengers: Nature’s Undertakers
Ocean scavengers are likely to contribute significantly to this process. The action of creatures like hagfish, amphipods, and rat-tail fish, combined with the slow decomposition, will eventually leave behind skeletal remains.
The Final Stage: Bones and Sediment
In the final stages, the bones will likely get buried in the seafloor sediment, marking the end of a solemn process that underscores the immense power of the ocean and the fragility of human life in such extreme conditions.
Remembering the Titan Crew
The fate of their bodies is a stark reminder of the finality of this loss. However, it is essential to remember the indomitable spirit of exploration these men embodied and the valuable contributions they made to deep-sea exploration.
FAQ: What Happens to the Bodies of the Titan Crew?
Did They Find the Bodies of Titan’s Crew?
Yes, the U.S. Coast Guard has reported that they have recovered what are being referred to as “presumed human remains” from the seafloor in the area where the debris of the Titan submersible was found.
What will happen to the bodies that were recovered from the Titan’s debris field?
The U.S. Coast Guard has announced that a formal analysis will be conducted on the presumed human remains that were discovered in the area of the Titan submersible’s debris field.
Who will perform the formal autopsy on the bodies of the Titan crew?
The U.S. Coast Guard will be responsible for conducting the formal analysis of the presumed human remains that were recovered from the Titan submersible’s debris field.
What Happened to the Titan Submersible?
The Titan submersible, a 22-foot vessel with five passengers, experienced a catastrophic implosion during a deep-sea exploration mission to the Titanic wreckage site, at a depth of approximately 12,500 feet.
When will we know the results of the autopsies of the bodies found in the Titan’s debris field?
The timeline for the results of the formal analysis of the presumed human remains found in the Titan submersible’s debris field has not been disclosed by the U.S. Coast Guard at this time.
What is the significance of finding presumed human remains in the Titan’s debris field?
The discovery of presumed human remains in the Titan’s debris field is a significant development in the investigation into the tragic accident. This could potentially provide more information on what exactly occurred during the implosion of the Titan submersible.
What Causes an Underwater Implosion?
An underwater implosion typically occurs when the hull of a submarine or submersible cannot withstand the immense pressure exerted by the surrounding water. This usually results from a weakness or failure in the hull structure or its pressure-resisting components.
What Happens to a Body When a Submersible Implodes?
The sudden change in pressure during an implosion would cause immediate trauma to the human body, essentially disintegrating it. The specifics, however, depend on various factors including the depth at which the implosion occurs and the design of the submersible.
How Do Bodies Decompose at the Bottom of the Ocean?
Decomposition at the ocean’s bottom is a slow process due to extreme cold, intense pressure, and complete absence of sunlight. The bodies would first be acted upon by scavengers. Over time, the slow decomposition process combined with the action of the scavengers would eventually leave behind skeletal remains.
What Happens to the Bones Left at the Ocean Floor?
The skeletal remains would likely become part of the seafloor over time, being buried under sediment, thereby becoming a part of the ocean’s ecosystem.
Can the Bodies of the Titan Crew Be Recovered?
Recovery of bodies from such extreme depths is incredibly challenging due to the unforgiving deep-sea environment. It requires specialized equipment and poses significant risks, hence it is rarely attempted. Following a submarine implosion, the extreme and rapid increase in pressure is immense. This instantaneous transition from a controlled environment to one of severe pressure is highly destructive. It’s unlikely that anything, including human bodies, would stay intact in such an event. It’s important to note that this is a worst-case scenario, and every effort is made in the design, construction, and operation of submarines to prevent such occurrences.
What Are the Measures to Prevent Submarine Implosions?
Preventing such incidents involves rigorous safety measures, including meticulous pre-dive checks, continuous monitoring of structural integrity, and adhering to operational limits, especially depth limits. Training for emergency scenarios and maintaining effective communication lines are also crucial.
How does the fate of the bodies of the Titanic passengers compare to those on the Titan submarine?
In both cases, the extreme pressure, low temperature, and limited light of the deep ocean would lead to similar processes of decomposition. The specific conditions would depend on factors like the exact depth and local marine life.
Can the bodies of the Titanic passengers still be found today?
Given the amount of time that has passed and the deep-sea conditions, it is highly unlikely that any recognizable human remains of the Titanic disaster can be found today.
What happened to the bodies of Titanic passengers that were never recovered?
Bodies that were not recovered would have likely undergone decomposition under the extreme conditions of the deep sea, similar to those experienced by the crew of the Titan submarine.
Are there bodies of Titanic passengers at the bottom of the ocean?
The exact fate of all the bodies from the Titanic disaster is unknown. In the days following the tragedy in 1912, some bodies were recovered by passing ships, but many were not. Due to the extreme depth and cold temperatures where the Titanic sank, any bodies not recovered soon after the sinking would have been subject to the forces of decomposition and scavenging marine life. Today, researchers believe that there are likely no recognizable human remains at the Titanic wreck site. Instead, remnants of clothing, shoes, and other personal belongings, which were more resistant to decomposition, may still exist. The Titanic’s debris field is expansive, spanning an estimated 15 square miles, meaning not all wreckage or associated remains have been found or thoroughly explored. As of September 2021, no identifiable human remains have been confirmed at the Titanic wreck site.
Will the bodies of the Titan submarine crew be found at the bottom of the ocean?
The potential for recovering the bodies of the Titan submarine crew from the ocean’s depths is complex and dependent on a multitude of factors. The wreckage is situated about 13,000 feet below sea level, where extraordinary pressure and cold temperatures can pose significant challenges for recovery missions. Typically, specialized tools such as remote-operated vehicles (ROVs) are used to explore the debris and its surrounding area in such scenarios. However, physically retrieving bodies from such profound depths is a considerable challenge. The length of time that bodies have been submerged could impact their state of preservation, thereby influencing the likelihood of successful recovery. While these challenges remain, the US Coast Guard announced on Wednesday that they have recovered “presumed human remains” from the seafloor in the vicinity of the Titan submersible’s debris field. A formal analysis is currently being conducted by the military branch to confirm these findings. Thus, while the situation is ongoing and complex, efforts are being made to recover and identify the remains of the Titan’s crew.
Despite what recent fearmongers want you to think, drag is not new. For centuries, people — both straight and from across the queer spectrum — have crossed fashion’s gender binaries for pleasure and performance. Just ask Shakespeare! His all male casts donned wigs, makeup, and dresses to tell some of the greatest love stories known to history.
Drag is and always has been an art form, a means of self-expression, and a thriving form of entertainment for all ages; it is a gift to the world and the queer community. The books below highlight the beauty and struggle of the drag world and how we can better celebrate and empower it.
GuRu
by RuPaul
Icon. Global sensation. Mother. These are just a few words to describe the revolutionary power of RuPaul, whose show RuPaul’s Drag Race has delighted and inspired countless people worldwide. GuRu is written with RuPaul’s signature mix of charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent that has made her the most beloved drag queen in a generation.
Life as a Unicorn: A Journey from Shame to Pride and Everything in Between
by Amrou Al-Kadhi
Home Alone changes lives. That fact was inarguably true for Amrou Al-Kadhi, who, much to their parent’s dismay, fell in love with Macaulay Culkin at first sight — not that we blame them. That moment became the first step in a long journey from God-fearing Muslim boy to queer drag queen in towering heels. Both hilarious and challenging, Al-Kadhi’s memoir reminds us that even our most scattered pieces, when assembled with love, can become something beautiful.
by Lil Miss Hot Mess Illustrated by Olga de Dios Ruiz
Fun colors, fancy names, and beautiful illustrations. What more could you want from a children’s book? Written to the tune of “Wheels on the Bus,” The Hips on the Drag Queen Go Swish, Swish, Swish follows a group of drag queens as they spread joy and color through the town — a perfect read for bedtime or at your local drag queen story hour.
Memoir meets history meets art in this vibrant work from legendary drag queen Sasha Velour. This unique manifesto combines original illustrations and photographs with Velour’s stories of her youth and career, as well as the rich queer history that made it all possible. Velour reveals (pun intended) that drag is more than a performance — it’s an act of queer liberation.
Sashay your way to the greatest business advice you never knew you needed. Covering everything from interview outfits to retirement to whether you’re the “office slut” (good for you), Trixie and Katya’s savvy and satirical guide will leave you laughing and smarter. After all, if these queens can take on the world in six-inch heels and even taller wigs, why can’t you?
by Elissa Auther, Mx. Justin Vivian Bond, David Román, Taylor Mac, Madison Moore
A good drag look is so much more than bold lipstick and the right amount of silicone. Few know this better than theatrical genius and designer Machine Dazzle, the artist behind some of the biggest names in cabaret, drag, and performance art. Collected here for the first time, readers can enjoy his extravagant stage sets and creations alongside essays and career photos. It is the perfect chef’s kiss to his motto: more is better.
Told in poetic verse, The Black Flamingo is a stunning young adult debut about finding your voice in a world that wants to keep you silent. Michael, a mixed-race gay teen growing up in London, longs to be enough of something. When he discovers the drag society at his university, he also finds a new side of himself — and the Black Flamingo is born.
by Jake Hall, Sofie Birkin, Helen Li, and Jasjyot Singh Hans
Much like a perfect lipsync, this book is a gag. Bright colors, mesmerizing artwork, and surprising history come together to tell the rich story of drag. Journalist Jake Hall tells it all, from mimes and Kabuki theatre to RuPaul and Dragula, with the help of incredible illustrations and a passion for all things queer. Much like the shade rattle during a blistering critique, this one will go fast — The Art of Drag is almost out of print!
Please note: The Art of Drag comes with an unattached spine. The pages lie flat so you can better enjoy the artwork!
No matter the anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric that continues to spew, drag is not — and should never be — a crime. So, unlike those drab fearmongers, pick up a book, stay educated, and please tip your local drag queens. And remember, in the timeless words of the inimitable RuPaul, “We’re all born naked, and the rest is drag.”
St. John’s, Newfoundland port witnessed the arrival of significant fragments from the ill-fated Titan submersible on Wednesday, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing investigation into its tragic implosion during the Titanic wreck expedition.
Titan’s Catastrophic Journey: The Story Thus Far
The journey to the Titanic’s wreck turned to disaster last week when the Titan submersible imploded, claiming the lives of all five passengers aboard. The retrieval of twisted remnants from the 22-foot underwater vehicle, now scattered across the ocean floor, was brought to a Canadian Coast Guard pier in St. John’s, furthering the investigation into the catastrophe.
Pieces of Titan Recovered: Unearthing the Ocean’s Secrets
The Horizon Arctic, a Canadian vessel, played a central role in the debris recovery operation, deploying a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to scour the ocean floor near the Titanic’s wreckage. The ROV, owned by Massachusetts and New York-based Pelagic Research Services, completed the offshore operations on Wednesday. The team refrained from commenting on the ongoing investigation, focusing instead on the mission at hand.
Titan Wreckage Recovery: A Glimpse into the Investigation
The debris from the Titan, located approximately 12,500 feet underwater and around 1,600 feet from the Titanic wreck, serves as a vital clue into the disastrous event. The Coast Guard, which leads the investigation, had announced the submersible’s implosion and the loss of all lives on board on June 22.
The incident has now been escalated to a Marine Board of Investigation, the highest level of inquiry within the Coast Guard. Potential electronic data from the submersible’s instruments, as suggested by Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s Carl Hartsfield, could prove to be vital in understanding the Titan’s tragic descent.
The military branch, the US Coast Guard, reported on Wednesday that they have retrieved what they believe to be human remains from the ocean floor in the vicinity of the Titan submersible’s debris field. A comprehensive analysis is set to be conducted to confirm these findings.
Horizon Arctic and Coast Guard Representatives
Despite requests for comments on the Titan wreckage recovery, representatives for Horizon Arctic, Coast Guard, National Transportation Safety Board, and the Transportation Safety Board of Canada have chosen to remain silent, refraining from commenting on the returned debris or the investigation.
Moving Forward: Addressing the Major Marine Casualty
The loss of the Titan, now classified as a “major marine casualty,” will see the Coast Guard leading the investigation, as clarified by the National Transportation Safety Board. Further information will not be disclosed until the investigation concludes, as stated by Liam MacDonald, a spokesperson for the Transportation Safety Board of Canada.
Post-mortem of the Voyage: OceanGate Expeditions Under Scrutiny
The U.S.-based OceanGate Expeditions, the company behind the Titan, has come under scrutiny following the catastrophic event. Concerns are rising over the safety standards of private underwater exploration, spurred by the Titan’s hefty $250,000 ticket price. The Coast Guard has expressed an intention to use the findings from this investigation to enhance safety regulations surrounding submersible operations, aiming to prevent such disasters in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recovery and Investigation
What happened to the Titan submersible?
The Titan submersible imploded during a voyage to the wreck of the Titanic, killing all five people on board. The cause of the implosion is under investigation.
Where was the Titan debris recovered?
The debris from the Titan was recovered near the Titanic wreck site, about 12,500 feet underwater. It was returned to the Canadian Coast Guard pier in St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Who is investigating the Titan’s implosion?
The U.S. Coast Guard is leading the investigation into the Titan’s implosion, which they have declared a “major marine casualty.” The National Transportation Safety Board and the Transportation Safety Board of Canada are also involved in the investigation.
Who were the passengers on the Titan?
The passengers on the Titan were Ocean Gate CEO and pilot Stockton Rush, members of a prominent Pakistani family Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman Dawood, British adventurer Hamish Harding, and Titanic expert Paul-Henri Nargeolet.
What was the mission of the Titan submersible?
The Titan was embarking on a voyage to the wreck of the Titanic. Passengers were charged $250,000 each to participate in the voyage.
Who owned the Titan submersible?
The Titan was owned and operated by OceanGate Expeditions, a U.S.-based company.
What will happen with the pieces of Titan recovered?
The pieces of Titan recovered will be analyzed to determine the cause of the implosion. It is hoped that data recorded by the submersible’s instruments will provide important clues about what went wrong during its descent.
Were the bodies of the Titan submersible crew members recovered?
As of the current report, there has been no official confirmation regarding the recovery of the bodies of the crew members from the Titan submersible. The investigation and recovery mission has primarily focused on locating and recovering the wreckage of the vessel.
Lauv, the 28-year-old singer-songwriter renowned for hit tracks such as “I Like Me Better,” “Mean It,” and his collaboration with Troye Sivan titled “i’m so tired,” recently made an announcement on his TikTok account. In a video posted on Saturday night, Lauv seemingly revealed his attraction to both women and men.
In the TikTok clip, Lauv, whose real name is Ari Staprans Leff, can be observed sitting in a dimly lit car, recording himself while listening to music. The on-screen caption reads, “when ur dating a girl but ur also a lil bit into men.”
Expressing his thoughts on the matter, he wrote in the caption, “Does it have to be that big of a deal? I haven’t done much aside from kiss, so tbh don’t wannna jump the gun, but tbh I feel things and I don’t wanna pretend I don’t. :)”
Although he did not specifically assign a label to his identity, his fans and followers showed overwhelming support for his revelation.
“A straight relationship doesn’t eliminate the fact you’re bi,” commented one individual. “So valid.”
“So I have a chance?!” exclaimed another.
“You don’t have to put a label on it or establish what it means right away,” advised another user. “Live your truth.”
Congratulations to Lauv for sharing his truth and demonstrating such openness.
Lauv’s real name is Ari Staprans Leff. He is commonly known by his stage name, which he uses for his music career.
Who is Lauv?
Lauv is a singer-songwriter known for popular songs like “I Like Me Better,” “Mean It,” and collaborations with artists such as Troye Sivan.
Is Lauv gay?
Lauv has not specifically identified as gay. In his TikTok announcement, he expressed his attraction to both women and men without assigning a specific label to his identity.
Is Lauv bisexual?
While Lauv has not explicitly labeled himself as bisexual, his TikTok video suggests his attraction to both women and men, indicating a potential bisexual orientation. However, it is important to note that he has not provided a definitive statement about his identity.
Can Lauv still be considered bisexual if he is in a straight relationship?
Yes, one commenter pointed out that being in a straight relationship does not eliminate the fact that Lauv identifies as bisexual.
Where is Lauv from?
Lauv was born in San Francisco, California, United States.
Underwater pioneer and adventure enthusiast Stockton Rush often echoed, “the ocean is the universe. That’s where life is.” A sentiment that drove his lifelong passion for oceanic exploration.
A Titan’s Loss in the Atlantic
Stockton Rush, esteemed founder and CEO of OceanGate, and pilot of the Titan submersible, was reported dead this Thursday. The remnants of his vessel were located at the base of the Atlantic Ocean, closely surrounding the decaying remnants of the RMS Titanic. He had reached the age of 61.
Rush presided over the financial and technical sectors of OceanGate, a privately-held research and tourism firm situated in Everett, Washington. He launched the firm in 2009. He co-founded the OceanGate Foundation three years later, promoting technological innovation for the advancement of marine archaeology, history, and science.
From the Skies to the Depths
At 19, Rush held the distinction of being the youngest pilot to secure a jet-transport rating in 1981, marking his initial venture into adventure. But he soon found the expanse of the skies limiting.
Rush expressed his initial aspiration to Fast Company magazine in 2017, saying, “I wanted to be the first person on Mars.”
However, at 44, he let go of his space-faring dreams, acknowledging the lack of economic feasibility for interplanetary travel in the near future. His vision shifted to the potential in underwater exploration and embraced the associated risks and rule-breaking required to achieve his goals.
Speaking to “CBS News Sunday Morning” last year, Rush asserted, “I mean, if you just want to be safe, don’t get out of bed. Don’t get in your car. Don’t do anything. At some point, you’re going to take some risk, and it really is a risk-reward question. I think I can do this just as safely by breaking the rules.”
Legacy of a Visionary Explorer
Born Richard Stockton Rush III, he descended from two signatories of the Declaration of Independence, Benjamin Rush and Richard Stockton, and belonged to one of San Francisco’s most prominent families.
Born in San Francisco on March 31, 1962, Rush was introduced to wealth and influence from an early age. His father helms the Peregrine Oil and Gas Company in Burlingame, California, and the Natoma Company, managing property investments in Sacramento. His grandfather presided over the American President Lines shipping company. His grandmother, Louise M. Davies, is the namesake for the San Francisco Symphony Hall.
The family wealth primarily came from Ralph K. Davies, who started his career as an office boy at Standard Oil of California at the age of 15 and quickly climbed to become the youngest director in the company’s history.
Rush, an alumnus of the Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering from Princeton University in 1984.
Before OceanGate’s inception, Rush held positions on the board of BlueView Technologies, a Seattle-based sonar developer, and as chairman of Remote Control Technologies, producing remotely operated devices. He also acted as a trustee for the Museum of Flight in Seattle from 2003 to 2007.
Titanic Family Ties and the Allure of the Deep
In 1986, Rush married Wendy Hollings Weil, an accredited pilot and account manager for magazine publishing consultants. She would later take on the role of Director of Communications for OceanGate.
Weil’s lineage traces back to Richard Weil Jr., former president of Macy’s New York, and to Isidor Straus, co-owner of Macy’s, and his wife, Ida, who
were among the wealthiest individuals who perished in the sinking of the Titanic. Tales of the Titanic remember Mr. Straus declining a spot on a lifeboat when women and children were still waiting to escape the sinking ship. Ida Straus, refusing to leave her husband, stood arm in arm with him on the Titanic’s deck as the ship met its fate.
Details about Mr. Rush’s surviving relatives have not been revealed.
In an interview with CBS News, Rush admitted that navigating the ocean at depths of several thousand feet demanded caution against obstacles like fish nets and overhangs. However, he stated that these safety concerns should not impede a thrilling career where risk often yielded not just monetary gains but unparalleled experiences.
A visit to RMS Titanic
“It really is a life-changing experience, and there aren’t a lot of things like that,” he explained to Fast Company. “Rather than spend $65,000 to climb Mount Everest, maybe die, and spend a month living in a miserable base camp, you can change your life in a week.”
Rush’s voyages in the Titan provided him the thrilling experiences he longed for.
“I wanted to be sort of the Captain Kirk,” he expressed. “I didn’t want to be the passenger in the back. And I realized that the ocean is the universe. That’s where life is.”
FAQ: Who Was Stockton Rush
Who was Stockton Rush?
Stockton Rush was the founder and CEO of OceanGate, a private tourism and research company, and pilot of the Titan submersible. He was renowned for his adventurous spirit and contribution to marine science and archaeology.
What happened to Stockton Rush?
Stockton Rush tragically died when his submersible, Titan, was found wrecked at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean, near the remains of the RMS Titanic.
What was Stockton Rush’s background in aviation and aerospace?
Rush, at the age of 19, was reported to be the youngest jet-transport-rated pilot in the world. He graduated from Princeton University in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering. He also worked as a flight test engineer on the F-15 program at the McDonnell Douglas Corporation.
Why did Stockton Rush transition from a dream of space travel to underwater exploration?
Rush believed that interplanetary travel was not economically feasible in the near future. As a result, he saw potential in underwater exploration and was willing to take risks and defy norms to fulfill his ambition.
What is known about Stockton Rush’s family background?
Stockton Rush hailed from one of San Francisco’s most notable families, tracing his lineage back to two signers of the Declaration of Independence. His family was associated with various businesses, including the Peregrine Oil and Gas Company, the Natoma Company, and the shipping company American President Lines.
Who was Stockton Rush’s wife and what was her role at OceanGate?
Rush was married to Wendy Hollings Weil, a licensed pilot and substitute teacher, who served as the director of communications for OceanGate.
What was Stockton Rush’s philosophy on risk and safety?
Rush was a strong believer in risk-reward balance. He maintained that to achieve substantial rewards, one must be willing to take risks, and that extreme safety measures can often hinder exhilarating experiences.
Was Stockton Rush related to anyone on the Titanic?
Stockton Rush himself had no direct familial ties to any passengers of the Titanic. Yet, his wife, Wendy Hollings Weil, held a historical connection to the ill-fated voyage. She was the great-great-granddaughter of Isidor Straus and his wife, Ida, prominent figures who tragically lost their lives on the Titanic.
Was Stockton Rush on the Titan?
Yes, Stockton Rush was indeed aboard the Titan, a submersible vessel he piloted. It’s also worth mentioning that Rush was the founder and CEO of OceanGate, the company behind the Titan. His life tragically ended when the Titan was discovered shattered at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean.
