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Freida McFadden is pushing back against speculation that artificial intelligence plays a role in her writing. The bestselling thriller author addressed the rumors directly, denying the use of any AI tools and reaffirming her creative process. Her response comes amid rumors that she and other indie authors use AI to produce more novels more quickly.

Freida McFadden Clarifies Rumors And Lies

“The Housemaid” author Freida McFadden took to social media to quash rumors about her using AI. As she wrote, she recently stumbled upon several user comments saying she used the technology, and even one where it said she “admitted” to doing it. “This is blatantly untrue,” McFadden wrote, adding that she said the opposite in interviews.

“I have said multiple times that I do NOT use AI both here and in official interviews, but maybe I’ve been too subtle? So I’m just going to be clear once and for all: I DO NOT USE AI TO WRITE MY BOOKS. I WILL NEVER USE AI TO WRITE MY BOOK,” she wrote on Facebook.

McFadden has been publishing books since 2013, but didn’t gain mainstream success until 2022 after the release of the psychological thriller, “The Housemaid,” which sold millions of copies and spent several weeks on the New York Times bestseller list.

The Author Defended Her Passion

In the lengthy post, the 45-year-old author revealed that she began writing at age 9 and that it remains her greatest passion. “I started self-publishing in 2013 because I just wanted to hold one of the books I’d written in my hands,” McFadden said, adding that she did not want to be a professional author.

McFadden is a physician by trade, and although she has found great success in writing, she has “no desire” to leave her career. Writing remains her hobby, a “labor of love,” which is why she refuses to use AI for her novels. “Would you get AI to do your hobbies for you? Maybe you could get AI to go on a cruise with your family? Maybe AI could eat that chocolate cake for you,” she wrote.

McFadden started as an indie publisher, but after gaining success, she signed with a publishing company. However, she still feels protective of other indie authors who are also accused of using AI. “They have been doing this before AI existed,” said the writer.

Freida McFadden Can Write Several Books In A Year

The author also pointed out what people cite as “evidence” of using AI, including the use of an em dash, typos, and producing more than “350 pages per year.”

She admitted that she’s “obsessed” with using an em dash and said other authors like Stephen King, Nora Roberts, and Danielle Steel could easily produce hundreds of pages of content in a year. When it comes to typos, she wrote, “I can’t think of anything more human than making a stupid typo. That’s like noticing someone is bleeding and saying it’s proof they’re a robot.”

McFadden said it’s “sad” that authors have to face this additional scrutiny, adding that while she can’t do a lot of things, she can write more than one book in a year. “I am able to write several books per year, and so can many other people. Let us have this,” she concluded.

The Author Revealed Her True Identity

In early April, McFadden revealed her real identity after keeping it secret for more than two decades. As previously reported by The Blast, McFadden’s real name is Sara Cohen, and she decided to finally share it with the world after being tired of hearing about speculations regarding her identity and hiding behind wigs for years.

McFadden works as a doctor and specializes in brain disorders, but revealed that her daily life is “much more boring” than the events that happen in her thrillers. The only reason she wrote under a pseudonym and kept her real identity under wraps was to avoid conflict in her real job. In 2023, however, she scaled back on her hours as a doctor, and it made sense to reveal her identity.

Multiple Freida McFadden Novels Are Headed For Adaptations

“The Housemaid” was the first major Hollywood adaptation for McFadden and was a blockbuster hit. The movie, released in 2025, featured Sydney Sweeney as housemaid Millie Calloway, and a sequel, based on the second book in the series, is currently in development. Sweeney will be reprising her role, and Kirsten Dunst has been announced as one of the cast members.

In addition, Sony has acquired the film rights for her novel “The Surrogate Mother,” and Apple Original Films is also working on a movie based on McFadden’s 2024 book titled “The Teacher.” MGM Studios is reportedly working on a movie adaptation of “The Tenant,” and the recently released novel “Dear Debbie” will be turned into a series for Amazon MGM Studios.

The ‘The Housemaid’ Author Freida McFadden Shuts Down AI Writing Rumors first appeared on The Blast

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Eddie Murphy was awarded the American Film Institute Life Achievement Award. This award is given to artists who have made a lasting impact on the film industry. Murphy’s career spans decades, from his rise as a “Saturday Night Live star” to his appearances in box office hits. His influence, reinvention and lasting cultural impact spans decades. Eddie Murphy’s Special moment ZUMAPRESS.com/MEGA On April 18, entertainers gathered in Los Angeles at the Dolby Theater to celebrate Eddie Murphy’s career. He was awarded the AFI Life Achievement Award. The award is given to artists who “work has stood up to the test of time,” according to the organization. Murphy’s family, friends, and colleagues gave him a standing ovation when he walked up to the podium to accept his award. Murphy said, “I’m really filled up seeing my family, my beautiful wife and all of my kids. I also see all the different people that I worked with.” Spike Lee, the filmmaker, presented the award to Murphy. Also in attendance were Chris Rock and Martin Lawrence. Dave Chappelle, Bill Burr and Arsenio hall, Tracy Morgan and Kevin Hart. “This is an important moment. I wish you could feel and see what I am feeling. I almost cried. Murphy said, “I’m going backstage to cry.” Mike Myers Appeared as Shrek Mike Myers appeared as Shrek at Eddie Murphy’s AFI Lifetime Achievement Award tribute.

(via: @MattDentler) pic.twitter.com/VFig2lWdQe– DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) April 19, 2026 Mike Myers, Murphy’s longtime friend and co-star on the “Shrek” franchise, was among those who honored the comedian. Myers, dressed in a black suit and bowtie with swamp green makeup on his ears and a Shrek-like mask, took the stage with a few words to honor his friend. Myers said that Murphy’s Donkey character, which is the star of the franchise, was a “masterpiece”. He described the actor as “laughable, joyful, vulnerable, and faithful.” Eddie Murphy combines these qualities into a masterpiece, and he is simply one of the best. The first “Shrek”, released in 2001, has been followed by three more films. Murphy and Myers are set to reunite as Shrek in the fifth installment of the series, scheduled for release in 2027. Murphy confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that a Donkey spinoff would be released in 2025. Dave Chappelle Called Eddie Murphy His Hero MEGA Comedian Dave Chappelle praised Murphy by saying that he was the last of the people he looked up too. “You were my hero… It was you and Prince, Michael Jackson, Rick James and Rick James. Chappelle said that all of them were deceased and you somehow survived. He revealed that as a teenager, he watched Murphy’s 1987 stand-up film “Raw”, daily after he got home from school. Chappelle revealed that he had visited Murphy shortly after his 65th Birthday on April 3, a sign of the depth of their friendship. The comedian had worked with Murphy’s late, Charlie Murphy on “The Chappelle Show,” but it was the first discussion between the two since Charlie died of leukemia in 2017. Murphy asked Chappelle to make a movie of “The Chappele Show.” It seems that Chappelle is open to the suggestion, but admits that it would be “tough” without Charlie. “So Eddie, if you do it, man do the Charlie parts, and let’s f*ck go,” said the comedian. Stevie Wonder Surprised the Audience with a Surprise Appearance The music legend Stevie Wonder surprised his audience by making an appearance. He shared that he learned about Murphy from his impersonation on “SNL”. “He made fun a blind man,” Wonder joked to the crowd. Eddie Murphy’s best impression of Wonder came in the 1982 “SNL’ sketch where he sang with Joe Piscopo, who played Frank Sinatra. In 1983, Murphy appeared with Wonder in a sketch where the former played an impersonator of Stevie Wonder who was coaching the real Stevie Wonder on how to impersonate him. Eddie Murphy’s Decades Long Career ZUMAPRESS.com/MEGA Murphy began his comedy career in his teens. His career took off when he was cast in “SNL” December 1980. In the years that followed, his stand-up specials helped him cement his reputation as one the best comedians in his generation. Murphy then moved into movies, appearing in “48 Hrs.,” ‘Beverly Hills Cop,’ “Coming to America”, “The Nutty Professor”, and the “Shrek “movies. The actor is known for his comedy skills, but he has also played serious roles, such as Jimmy “Thunder Early” in the film “Dreamgirls,” for which he received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Murphy has several projects in the works. These include a fifth installment of Beverly Hills Cop, the Donkey spinoff film, and producing George Clinton biopic. The 51st AFI Life Achievement Award, A Tribute To Eddie Murphy will be streamed on Netflix starting May 31. The Eddie Murphy Receives AFI’s Highest Honour first appeared on The Blast

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Jennifer Aniston is counting her blessings when it comes to her relationship with Jim Curtis.

The pair have been dating for nearly a year, and the actress is said to feel lucky to have him in her life.

While they have largely kept their romance out of the public eye, sources say it is built on mutual respect, with Jennifer Aniston reportedly feeling more secure in this relationship than in any of her past ones.

The Actress Feels ‘Lucky’ Being With Jim Curtis

Nearly a year into their whirlwind romance, Jennifer Aniston and Jim Curtis are still going strong.

For the actress, being in the relationship has reportedly made her realize just “how lucky she is,” especially as he has completely shifted her perspective on life.

“In life and career, yeah, but also in crossing paths with Jim when she did and having the courage to pursue a partnership with him,” an insider told Star Magazine of the actress.

Even fans of the actress seem to have been won over by the hunky hypnotherapist, despite her previously being married to higher-profile figures like Brad Pitt and Justin Theroux, and having been in relationships with the likes of John Mayer and Vince Vaughn.

“No doubt Jen has fans who are skeptical of Jim or who wonder if he’s just after her money or impressive connections,” the source shared. “But Jen is a lot more secure with this man than she was with any of her previous lovers and husbands.”

The Couple’s Relationship Is Built On Mutual Respect

Aniston and Curtis have kept their relationship low-key, aside from occasionally sharing loved-up photos of themselves online.

Away from public view, the pair are reportedly making a conscious effort to ensure their relationship works by doing all the right things.

“Top to bottom, it’s a relationship built on mutual respect, and they truly prioritize spending a lot of distraction-free time together,” the source revealed about the couple. “She and Jim really are on a journey together and are figuring out their future.”

In the future, the couple is also hoping to explore more beyond their current base in Los Angeles once Aniston wraps up filming the fifth season of “The Morning Show.”

“Jen has the money to shake everything up in her life when that commitment wraps, and Jim has the vision and good judgment to help her do it,” added the insider. “The possibilities are limitless!”

Jennifer Aniston And Jim Curtis Spend A lot Of Time Together

Proof of the duo spending a lot of time together was given by Curtis himself during his recent appearance on the “Ced With Intention” podcast.

“I spend a lot of time with my girlfriend. We spend a lot of time in the house together,” he told his host.

Staying together has come with a number of benefits for the couple, including knowing how best to resolve the occasional issues they have.

“Sometimes, we can have little things flare up. We have the opportunity to be silent, angry, [we] could leave the house, think about it, and meditate on how to change it,” the hypnotherapist revealed at the time.

“Or we can say, ‘Hey, this is what happened, I’m sorry,’ and do the repair, and then go and work on making sure it happens less or doesn’t happen again. Because once you make a repair and it just happens five more times, no one trusts it,” he added.

The Couple Was Introduced By A Mutual Friend

Speculations began swirling in July that Aniston is in a relationship with Curtis when they were first spotted looking cozy on a yacht during a trip to Mallorca, Spain.

The relationship rumors were later confirmed that month, and it was also revealed that they had met through a mutual friend.

“They were introduced by a friend and started out as friends. Jen had read his book and was familiar with his work,” said a source, per People Magazine. “He’s very different from anyone she’s dated before.”

Jennifer Aniston And Jim Curtis Went Instagram Official On The Hypnotist’s Birthday

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A post shared by Jennifer Aniston (@jenniferaniston)

The couple finally went Instagram official on Curtis’ birthday in November, which officially confirmed to the world that they were an item.

At the time, Aniston took to the platform to share a photo of herself wrapping her arms around him from behind, with the caption, “Happy birthday, my love.”

Her post led to a flood of supportive comments from fans and some of her Hollywood colleagues.

Actress Reese Witherspoon wrote, “Happy Birthday! LOVE this Lovestory,” while actor Cheyenne Jackson commented, “Love love love this and you.”

The Jennifer Aniston Feels ‘Lucky’ Dating Jim Curtis As She Is ‘A Lot More Secure’ With Him Than Her Famous Lovers first appeared on The Blast

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Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie‘s daughter, Shiloh Jolie, is reportedly working hard to create her own identity away from the shadows of her famous parents.

K-pop fans recently got a fun surprise when the dancer made an appearance in singer Dayoung’s “What’s a Girl to Do” music video with a standout performance.

Though raised in the spotlight, Shiloh Jolie has been quietly building her own path in the dance industry, setting the stage for a career defined by talent rather than fame.

Brad Pitt And Angelina Jolie’s Daughter Shiloh Is Staying Grounded As She Pursues A Dance Career

K-pop fans were thrilled when rising artist Dayoung dropped the music video for her new track “What’s a Girl to Do” on April 7, but much of the attention quickly shifted to one unexpected appearance: Shiloh Jolie.

In one of the video’s most talked-about moments, the 19-year-old, credited simply as “Shi,” is seen performing in a dim club setting wearing a lace brown top and loose denim, later switching to a red cropped sweater and shorts as she joins a street choreography sequence in downtown Los Angeles.

Her performance, marked by confident and fluid movement, drew praise online, with many noting her resemblance to her mother, Angelina.

According to Star Magazine, a rep for the K-Pop singer confirmed that Shiloh was selected through an open audition process and was not identified as a celebrity child at the time of hiring. Meaning she didn’t get the gig by being a nepo baby.

A source who spoke to the publication emphasized that the production team was unaware of her family background, with the representative adding that she was selected purely for her dancing.

“Shiloh is a fiercely independent person, and she’s always been determined to prove herself in her own right,” the source added.

Shiloh Jolie Described As ‘Hardworking And Talented’

Despite growing up in the public eye, Shiloh has reportedly made a conscious effort to avoid leaning on her family name for visibility.

“Everyone who knows Shiloh says she’s very hardworking and talented,” the source noted, adding “that she’s also very unassuming and modest.”

Her passion for dance has been visible for years. She previously appeared in choreography clips circulating online from studios in Los Angeles, including a 2022 performance at Millennium Dance Complex, where she danced to Doja Cat’s “Vegas.”

She later surfaced in additional collaborative studio videos within the dance community, gradually gaining recognition among fans of choreography culture.

She also surfaced in later collaborative dance content shared within the choreography community, gradually building recognition among fans of studio dance culture.

People familiar with her training say she gravitates toward group choreography rather than solo spotlight, preferring the energy and collaboration of ensemble work.

Friends describe her as someone who values creativity and connection within her dance circles over attention or celebrity status.

Angelina Jolie And Brad Pitt Support Shiloh’s Private, Independent Path

Meanwhile, Shilloh’s parents have both spoken in different ways about encouraging their children to live privately and independently.

Angelina has previously said that her children tend to stay away from the celebrity lifestyle and prefer more personal, grounded pursuits, noting that Shiloh in particular values her privacy.

Pitt has also acknowledged her passion for dance in past comments, expressing admiration for her dedication while joking that he’s not sure where she got her talent from, as he’s “Mr. Two-Left-Feet.”

Over the years, reports have noted Shiloh splitting her time between family life, close friends, travel, and continued dance training.

Those close to Angelina say she has mixed emotions watching her children grow more independent, but remains supportive and proud of the paths they are carving out for themselves.

Shiloh Jolie Steps Into Her Own With  Growing Design Dance Career

Shiloh, who officially stopped using her father’s surname after turning 18 in 2024, has been steadily building a quiet reputation in dance and choreography circles over the past few years.

By 2025, the usually private young dancer began earning behind-the-scenes credits, including work as a choreographer for a performance showcased at a dinner event tied to the launch of Isabel Marant’s Net-A-Porter capsule collection.

Reports at the time noted that she was credited under the name “Shi Jolie” in the event materials.

Why The Dancer Dropped Her Famous Dad’s Name

Shiloh shocked many when she made the bold and legal move to drop her father, Pitt’s last name, after turning 18. According to legal documents, the dancer stated that she now wishes to be known as “Shiloh Jolie” rather than “Shiloh Jolie-Pitt.”

Her lawyer, Levine, later shed light on the reason behind Shiloh’s decision, noting that it was sparked by “painful events.”

“The media should be more careful in their reporting,” Peter Levine told People Magazine, adding, “especially when covering a young adult who has made an independent and significant decision following painful events, and is merely following legal process.”

The “painful events” in question likely include the dancer and her siblings being prevented from testifying in the custody battle between Pitt and their mother, Angelina.

“The name change goes back to the custody battle, and Shiloh’s belief that her rights as a victim were violated,” a source told the Daily Mail. “Shiloh believed she had the right, as a victim of crime, to testify — and was prevented from doing so.”

As for Pitt, he is said to have been left devastated by his daughter’s decision to drop his name.

The Angelina Jolie’s Mini-Me Daughter ‘Determined To Prove Herself’ Beyond Nepo Baby Label As ‘She’s Fiercely Independent’ first appeared on The Blast

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Nicole Kidman is reportedly embracing a confident new chapter following her split from Keith Urban, focusing on self-care and a refreshed sense of purpose.

Sources say her recent glow-up and renewed energy have drawn widespread attention, including from her ex-husband.

As buzz grows around her personal life and rumored connections, Nicole Kidman is also exploring a more meaningful path, revealing plans to train as a death doula inspired by the loss of her mother.

Nicole Kidman Reportedly Enters Confident New Era Following Split From Keith Urban

According to insiders, the Oscar-winning actress is investing in her well-being and appearance, entering a phase where she both looks and feels her best.

“Nicole’s been having a real moment,” a source shared with a news outlet, adding that her recent glow-up hasn’t gone unnoticed, especially by Urban. “Seeing her out there glowing, looking better than ever, it has really hit home that she’s not slowing down.”

Rather than retreating, Kidman is said to be leaning into this new phase with a refined and effortless approach to her appearance, polished and intentional, yet never excessive.

The actress has reportedly opted for subtle, “non-invasive” treatments, including laser procedures.

“She’s known as this big surgery addict, but she’s a lot more conservative with … all that stuff than people give her credit for,” the insider added. “Clearly, whatever she’s done recently has worked wonders. She looks like a million bucks, and she’s projecting so much confidence.”

The Actress’s Love Life Has Come Under Scrutiny Since Her Divorce

It’s not just Urban who has taken notice of Kidman’s glow-up, as those close to the situation say there’s growing buzz around the actress’s love life, with many viewing her as newly single and highly desirable.

“There’s this sense that she’s back on the market in a big way, and it won’t take long before someone snaps her up,” the source said per the National Enquirer.

They added that it may not be long before someone new enters her life, something that could be a “tough pill” for Urban to swallow, given how “magnetic she can be when she’s like this.”

Nicole Kidman Was Recently Linked Romantically To Her Co-Star, Simon Baker

Fresh rumors have linked Kidman to longtime friend and “Scarpetta” co-star Simon Baker.

Speculation grew after the two were seen looking close at the New York premiere of “Scarpetta,” where they appeared relaxed and affectionate together.

Speaking at the event, Kidman hinted at their natural chemistry, saying it “just vibrates,” while Baker playfully avoided fueling the rumors, joking that he doesn’t “kiss and tell.”

However, the speculation has reportedly surprised those close to them, including Baker’s ex-wife, Rebecca Rigg, who is also a longtime friend of Kidman and is said to be “shocked and confused” by the reports.

The Actress Reveals Plans To Train As A Death Doula Following Mother’s Passing

Meanwhile, Kidman has also revealed a deeply personal direction she plans to pursue, training to become a death doula.

Speaking at the University of San Francisco as part of the Silk Speaker Series, she shared that the decision was inspired by the loss of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, who passed away in September 2024 at 84.

According to The Blast, while reflecting on that experience, Kidman explained that her mother’s final days highlighted a gap in care that even family couldn’t fully bridge.

Balancing careers and large families, she and her sister did their best, but she found herself wishing there were “these people in the world that were there to sit impartially and just provide solace and care.”

That realization, she said, is what led her to explore becoming a death doula as part of her personal growth.

Nicole Kidman Opened Up About Grief After Losing Parents

Kidman has been open about the grief she continues to carry after losing both of her parents. Her father, Antony Kidman, passed away in 2014, and she has described the emotional toll of navigating life without them as overwhelming at times.

She learned of her mother’s passing while attending the Venice Film Festival for her film “Babygirl,” leaving early to be with her family.

During the event, director Halina Reijn read a statement on her behalf as she accepted a best actress honor, in which Kidman shared the heartbreaking news.

In the months since, she has continued to honor her parents publicly. Marking what would have been her mother’s birthday in March 2025, Kidman shared a tribute expressing how deeply she misses both her “Mumma” and “Papa,” later adding that her mother remains forever in her heart.

The Nicole Kidman’s Facial Glow-Up Post-Divorce Sparks Buzz As Insiders Credit ‘Non-Invasive’ Treatments first appeared on The Blast