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Dakota Mortensen, star of “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” is opening up to the chaos in her life since authorities announced that they would not prosecute Taylor Frankie Paul following a reported domestic argument between them. Hulu’s reality star Dakota Mortensen said in a new statement that he is focused on being a better father to his son Ever. He also expressed regret for not ending his relationship with Paul earlier. Dakota Mortensen Breaks Silence After Prosecutors Refused To Prosecute Taylor Francie Paul Dakota made a statement on IG, and turned off comments. Dakota says, “I don’t like the way this situation has been presented publicly.” It doesn’t reflect the full context or impact of what happened to me and my child.l’ve chosen to step away from the spotlight… pic.twitter.com/vjEQlqh0v3– Big Brother Tea (@TheBigBroTea) April 20, 2026 On Sunday, April 19, Mortensen, 33, shared a lengthy post to his Instagram, acknowledging that his absence on social media was to allow him to focus on himself as a person and a father. “That space was a breath fresh air and gave me clarity,” said Mortensen. Mortensen who shares a child with Paul said that he would “focus” on the most important part of his life, his son Ever. He continued to say that creating a “stable and healthy environment” was crucial for his well-being. Dakota Mortensen Says She’s Regretful For Not Leaving Relationship With Paul Sooner. ZUMAPRESS.com/MEGA Mortensen continued by addressing his contentious, allegedly abusive relationship with Paul. Mortensen admitted that the two had to part ways much sooner than their legal woes in 2026. “I regret not leaving a difficult cycle earlier. I’m not perfect and I accept responsibility for my part. “I’m sorry to those who I’ve hurt,” wrote he. “At the time, I do not agree with how this case has been portrayed in public. It doesn’t reflect the full context of the incident or the impact on me and my child. Mortensen said he wanted to take time away from the spotlight in order to better himself. He has appeared in four seasons of Hulu’s “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and recently in Alex Cooper’s “Unwell Games”. “I’m moving forward with the hope of better days ahead,” Mortensen shared. He also expressed his gratitude for the love and support that he has received in the past few weeks. “I intend to use my experiences in the future and as appropriate, to help others who are navigating similar situations,” said Mortensen. Dakota Mortensen and Paul Have A Past Of Alleged Domestic Violence LISA OConnor/AFF USA.com /MEGA Mortensen made the vulnerable statement weeks after a Utah Police Department confirmed that it was investigating an alleged domestic dispute between them. The video of the couple’s domestic dispute from 2023 was then shared online. The Blast reported that Paul appeared to strike Mortensen, before pulling his hair and hurling metal chairs at him. Mortensen can be heard in the video begging Paul to stop. “Holy sh*t,” he said. CBS News reports that the incident was reported to police and Paul was charged with domestic abuse and child abuse. Paul is frank about his personal issues being on display ZUMAPRESS.com/MEGA The release of the video caused Paul even more trouble, as Disney removed her previously filmed season of “The Bachelorette”. “It’s heavy. Paul said, “It’s a difficult time and it’s unfortunate,” after hearing the news. “I’m struggling, yes, but I also feel that if I don’t show up, I’m giving away these opportunities and not enjoying the work we’ve done and something super exciting coming. I felt it was the right decision to show up, even though it was hard. In addition to Disney, ABC, and other brands, Cinnabon also separated themselves from Paul and “SLOMW’s” cast. Cinnabon’s spokesperson told The Blast that the company had decided to end its collaboration with “The Bachelorette” and “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.” Paul’s legal victory could help bring ‘SLOMW” back to air sooner than later LISA OConnor/AFF USA.com / Mega The allegations against Paul, Mortensen and Hulu forced them to pause production of season 5 of ‘SLOMW.’ However, Paul’s recent legal victory could move things along. According to The Blast a source close the show stated that prosecutors not prosecuting Paul is a “major” development and the next step to getting the cameras rolling. The Blast first published The Dakota Mortensen Discusses ‘Difficult Cycle,’ With Taylor Frankie Paul amidst Legal Drama.

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The ladies of “Real Housewives of Rhode Island”, or “RHORI”, may be only in their first season, but they are causing drama like no other. In last night’s episode, Alicia Carmody (aka Rosie DiMare) and a group of women went head-tohead on a night out following accusations made in front of everyone. The ladies were able work through their issues, but not without shaking the table.

What happened between Alicia Carmody and Rosie DiMare on ‘RHORI?

According to Bravo Daily Dish’s report, the cast of RHORI went on a group trip in episode 4 of this new series. During the event, some of the ladies split into smaller groups. DiMare and Liz McGraw teamed up, and DiMare told McGraw during their excursion that some women, namely Ashley Iaconetti, were a bit intimidated.

DiMare admitted on the “RHORI’ aftershow that she had relayed the information to McGraw, but also admitted to being confused by the reactions of everyone. DiMare stated that “she was completely fine while we were using the little machine.” “And now I feel like the worst person on the planet for calling her scary.”

DiMare was confused because the day before, Carmody and other women had discussed McGraw’s anger. Carmody said McGraw had “been that way her whole life” and told the women: “We all have to walk on eggs-shells with her, including me.” She’s not a bulls-t. “I’m scared of her even though I don’t usually get scared by anyone.”

Why did Carmody snap on DiMare during Episode 4 of ‘RHORI?

McGraw tried to explain herself by saying that, although she appears tough on the surface, she has a heart full of gold. DiMare was confused by McGraw’s statement and told her her friend Carmody had previously said that she’d always been like this.

Carmody snapped shortly after accusing DiMare of twisting her own words. Carmody stated that she didn’t think DiMare “realized what she was doing” during the aftershow.

“I’ll tell what pissed you off about Rosie,” added she. “I said ‘Yeah she was always this’ in a kind of way that she had a tough life, like trying to explain Liz without talking s—. I was trying [to portray] Liz as softer than they were. The next day Rosie took it… And that’s when I lost all my s-t. I don’t want someone to twist that. That’s f-ked up.”

Carmody said DiMare’s behavior was a red flag

Bronson Farr

Carmody continued by calling DiMare’s conduct a “red-flag” and saying that she would not let it slide. “You know what you mean?” Don’t f*ck with me.”

“I think she was testing the water, and then, she said, I’m going to dip my feet in. It was the wrong f****** pond. “Not with me,” Carmody said.

DiMare, however, admitted that she was stunned by the reactions of everyone. She said, however, that she knew Carmody to be a bit feisty.

“I knew Alicia was a fiery woman because, like, she is really fiery,” said she. “I just didn’t think, like recognizing something she said the previous day was, like so deep.”

The ‘RHORI Ladies’ Moved on

Bronson Farr

DiMare and Carmody, as is their custom, moved on quickly after their explosive outburst after the former apologized for causing trouble.

“I have a temper.” My mother has always told me this. Carmody said, “It’s like, very loud.” “But I knew she didn’t really mean it when she apologized, and I was like ‘I love You’. It’s not as if you fucked Billy. I can move forward. “I knew she was sorry and I loved Rosie for it.”

Where are the girls now? Carmody says DiMare is “a good friend right now,” but that could change anytime.

Andy Cohen teased ‘Real Housewives of Rhode Island’

Noam Galai

The “Real Housewives of Rhode Island”, as they are known, live up to their hype. According to an earlier report from The Blast, Bravo’s Andy Cohen teased this show earlier this year by saying that it would “hit viewers like a ton bricks.”

“The women are all superstars.” They’re hilarious. They are the drama. You know, backstage we were talking about Rhode Island. It’s our smallest State, and they seem to all know each other or be related or went to highschool together, or even all of the above,” Cohen continued.

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Katy Perry’s latest Rome trip is attracting attention for more reasons than just sightseeing.

The pop star shared an amusing video of herself at Trevi Fountain. She broke tradition by dipping her credit card in the water, instead of throwing coins into the water for good luck.

The moment quickly became viral, especially since it came just days after reports confirmed that she is being investigated in Australia for serious allegations made against actress Ruby Rose which she has strongly denied.

Katy Perry turns Trevi Fountain Tradition into viral moment

@urmom_ontour Original sound – Ur mom

Katy Perry’s playful Instagram clip of her at Rome’s Trevi Fountain was a hit, but it wasn’t just any ordinary clip.

The singer joked about her dislike of loose change by placing her credit card in the water instead of a coin.

Perry began the moment by standing in front of a landmark wearing a grey hoodie and singing “someone please give me a dollar” before referencing her lyrics.

She told her fans, “Y’all I told you in ‘Save as Draft’ that I don’t like change,” tying it back to the “Witness’ track.

Perry said she wanted to continue the tradition “for luck,” but the unconventional way in which she grabbed the card quickly before it slid away left viewers confused and amused.

The Trevi Fountain was completed in 1762 and is one of Rome’s most popular landmarks. Thousands of visitors visit daily, tossing coins in the hope of getting back.

Fans left in stitches over Perry’s Rome Video

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/MEGA

A fan account reposted a viral video on TikTok, and fans flooded in the comments section.

One user commented on the singer’s choice to remove the card from the fountain.

“Kathryn, it doesn’t matter if you return it! They wrote that they should’ve thrown it in the fountain so one of your katyrats could find it for more good luck.

Katy Perry’s item choice was also hilarious to some fans. One person said, “I can’t believe you used credit card instead a coin!” I love how goofy my queen you are.”

Another said, “I believe you’re the very first person to put a credit-card into the fountain. lol”, while a third added, “Great.” Now ur card is living the best life it can in the fountain.

Katy Perry Shares A Few Glimpses From Rome Trip And Private Performance

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency / MEGA

Perry’s Trevi fountain moment was only one of many highlights from a trip packed with performances and sightseeing.

The “Dark Horse’ singer captioned “Just Rome-ing around,” along with a mixture of videos and pictures that showcased both glamorous and candid moments abroad.

She performed a concert at La Nuvola in a black silk pant and a bandeau top with a shimmering finish.

Perry performed her 2010 hit, “The One That Got Away,” with her hair in a sleek bun. She reminded fans of her ever-present stage presence.

The behind-the-scenes footage showed her preparing with her crew for the show, giving a more intimate view of her process.

Perry also posed in Rome in a chic, black-and-white dress in front of St. Peter’s Basilica, taking in the historic setting.

She even added a playful element by singing “Pope Leo hallelujah,” a nod to the first American Pontiff, while exploring Vatican City.

Perry faces serious allegations as investigation unfolds

MEGA

Katy Perry’s Rome trip was not all fun and games. She also has serious issues to deal with.

The 41-year old is currently being investigated by Australian authorities after sexual assault accusations made by actress Ruby Rose. The allegations stem from an alleged 2010 incident at a Melbourne club.

According to The Blast, a police spokesperson issued a statement on 15 April stating that “Melbourne Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team SOCIT detectives are currently investigating a historic sexual assault which occurred in Melbourne in 2010.”

The statement continued: “Police were informed that the incident took place at a licensed establishment in Melbourne’s CBD. It would be inappropriate to make any further comments at this time, as the investigation is still ongoing.

Rose filed a formal complaint, which brought to light an allegation that she had previously made.

Katy Perry Denies Ruby Rose Claims Despite Growing Scrutiny

MEGA

Perry has strongly denied the allegations via her representative and pushed back against Ruby Rose’s claims.

In an official statement her team referred to the accusations as “dangerous, reckless lies” and stressed that the singer rejected them completely.

The Daily Mail reported that Ruby Rose’s allegations about Katy Perry on social media are not only categorically untrue, but also dangerous, reckless lies.

The article also addressed Rose’s public accusation history, noting that “Ms Rose is well documented for making serious public accusations on social media against a variety of individuals, claims which have been repeatedly denied by those named.”

Rose, on the other hand, maintains that the alleged event occurred when she was in her 20s during a night of fun in Melbourne.

The Blast first published The Katy Perry’s Strange Trevi Fountain moment sparks buzz amid Ruby Rose drama.

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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