Church chastising

Britney Spears comes for Catholic church over perceived wedding snub

The father, the son and the holy Spears.

Britney Spears continues to air her grievances, and she's now zeroed in on the Catholic church. On Tuesday, Aug. 2, the pop star said she wanted to get married in a specific church, but she was denied because she's not a practicing Catholic.

Matt Baron/Shutterstock

"This is where I originally wanted to get married during COVID 👰🏼‍♀️ !!!!" she wrote alongside an Instagram image of a couple getting married at the altar. "I wanted to go every Sunday … it's beautiful and they said it was temporarily shut down due to COVID !!!! Then 2 years later when I wanted to get married there they said I had to be catholic and go through TEST !!!!"

Still clearly peeved over the situation, Britney asked her Instagram followers, "Isn't church supposed to be open to all 🤔🤷🏼‍♀️⛪️ ????"

Britney was raised Southern Baptist but has also studied Kabbalah.

After Britney's post, the church claimed it was never contacted by the singer.

The "Toxic" singer and Sam Asghari ended up tying the knot in the backyard of her home in June. The nuptials were attended by Paris Hilton, Selena Gomez, Drew Barrymore, Madonna and more.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CepUVQOpaup/

Although several of the pop star's most committed fans supported her, several others felt that Britney was a little out of bounds. 

"You have to be Catholic to get married in a Catholic Church. It's always been that way," one person said, according to Page Six. Another told Brit, "Some traditions need to be respected Britney."

"I love Britney Spears but Catholic Churches are for the weddings of Catholics, and we shouldn't be expected to bend the rules of our church to accommodate those who just want to be apart of an aesthetic," a third noted. 

https://twitter.com/nickisharleys/status/1554686765461811201

Britney has since taken down the Instagram post, but several Twitter followers uploaded screenshots of the church chastising. 

Beyond Celebrity NAD+ Hype: How Holivita's Science Separates Facts From Fads

Courtesy of client

When celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow endorsed NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) IV drips as part of their respective healthcare routines, most people followed blindly. With mere social media posts, they catapulted this relatively unknown medication into mainstream popularity. But amidst those aesthetically pleasing pictures, memorized benefits and expensive IV drips, a question arises: Is there genuine science behind the present NAD+ boost hype or is this another health trap?

While celebrities spend a lot on IV drips, the innovative company Holivita, part of the Holiverse group, is preparing to launch a technology that will accurately reveal whether you personally really need NAD+ or not. Or maybe you do, but in a totally different form. How will they figure it out? By analyzing your DNA.

We will discuss this further below, but first, let's better understand what NAD+ is really.

The $750 Molecule Mystery

Nicotinamide adenine nucleotide (NAD+) is an essential coenzyme found in every cell of the body, playing an important role in various metabolic processes. It acts as a helper molecule, particularly crucial for energy production, maintaining cellular health and DNA repair, according to studies. Extensive research conducted in decades by reputable scientific institutions all say that natural NAD+ levels decline with age, with most people experiencing a dramatic 40-50% drop by age 50. This age-related decline affects energy production, cellular repair and overall metabolic function.

At the same time, scientific evidence on the real-world effectiveness of NAD+ as an anti-aging medication in humans is limited and is based on rather anecdotal evidence.

According to Dr. Dmitry Chebanov, PhD, a computational biologist and top health expert at Holiverse, the issue with NAD+ drips is the molecule itself: "NAD+ in its pure form just doesn't get absorbed by the body — it breaks down before it gets to the cells. Celebrities pay thousands of dollars for a procedure that isn't scientifically proven to work."

When Celebrities Become Your Doctor

For a significant number of people, especially the affluent, the appeal of NAD+ IV drips is immensely noticeable and compelling. Most users claim it has a plethora of benefits, including, but not limited to, improved cognitive function, mental clarity, anti-aging effects, reduction in systemic inflammation and restorative sleep patterns.

This anecdotal evidence, replete with newfound vigor, has resonated with thousands of people globally. Hailey Bieber has been very vocal about the IV drips, including those containing NAD+, and has documented her journey on Instagram. In fact, on an episode of the popular show The Kardashians, Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner took IV drips containing NAD+ boosters, with the former telling her millions of followers that "she's doing it for the rest of her life." This, according to lifestyle and entertainment magazines, spiked interest in NAD+ boosters globally.

Critics have continuously pointed to the lack of long-term studies confirming the safety and efficacy of such procedures, and most outrightly claim that their effectiveness may be grossly exaggerated for marketing purposes. Also, there have been numerous legal cases involving the FDA and the National Products Association on issues surrounding NAD+. Regardless of the legal standing, doctors and specialists are still divided on what form of NAD+ is optimal, how it can be effectively administered for maximum absorption and whether it is safe at all.

The Plot Twist in Your DNA

With no real scientific evidence to back up the claims of NAD+ being efficient in age reversal, among other things, Holivita steps in as an antidote to the prevalent one-size-fits-all approach of modern medicine.

Holivita's approach is quite different from what is typically done in the wellness industry today. Instead of selling you the latest trendy molecule for $750 per session, the system first checks if you really need it and what other options might work for you, using personalized medical-grade questionnaires, DNA analysis and any extra health data that you can upload if you wish.

A specially trained AI matches your data with all the scientific knowledge available on the subject, as well as with the results from other Holivita users, to create a personalized step-by-step plan for you. Holivita technology analyzes not just individual genes but also their interactions. The system compares your genetic profile with millions of scientific publications and the real results of other users. It's like having a personal team of thousands of scientists working exclusively on your health 24/7.

By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and DNA-based analysis, this innovative project has the ability to determine what is beneficial for an individual or not. Even a globally renowned celebrity like Kendall Jenner may not, by a large margin, be safe to take any medication without adequate genetic testing. Instead of simply administering NAD+ or supplements to you based on social media hype, it utilizes the biological data that has been meticulously analyzed to help you understand if you genuinely need NAD+ boosters. This process, according to Dr. Dmitry Chebanov, Holiverse's Head of Health and a reputable biologist with over a decade and a half of experience, involves a comprehensive analysis of your respective biomarkers, a thorough assessment of your present lifestyle and a clear grasp of your health goals.

Holivita's extended guidance goes far beyond identifying potential NAD+ deficiencies; it delves deeply into the exact form of NAD+ boost your body will most likely absorb faster for optimal results. This further implies a careful examination of a plethora of existing options, ranging from subtle dietary interventions to lifestyle modifications that can naturally support NAD+ production, precisely formulated supplements backed by real science. Only then, if scientifically needed based on your health data and current lifestyle, will Holivita recommend more doses or therapies.

Additionally, based on data obtained and analyzed accurately, Holivita algorithms may also search for naturally better alternatives that align with your condition and goals, helping you achieve superior results without necessarily taking NAD+ boosts. These alternatives may operate through different biochemical pathways unrelated to direct NAD+ supplements but are equally or even more effective.

Your Genes Are Worth More Than You Think

The most interesting part is just beginning, though, as your health data, combined with genome analysis, is valued by pharmaceutical companies between $50 and $20,000 — the more complete and unique your profile, the higher the price. And Holivita offers you the opportunity to earn from this data while you improve your health according to a plan tailored to your unique biology.

Medical ID, another one of the company's first products, lets you store all your health data, such as your NAD+ intake history, in one secure place. This makes it easy to share your medical history with any clinic worldwide, helping you get more accurate and better-quality treatment.

The most revolutionary part, however, is yet to come. Holivita is developing Digital Twin technology — your DNA-avatar, on which any intervention can be safely tested. Imagine: you can see how your body will react to the same NAD+ over several months or even years, without taking a single drop. No more blind experiments for thousands of dollars — only scientifically grounded predictions based on your unique biology.

The Future Has Your Name On It

While Gwyneth Paltrow promotes yet another wellness procedure and millions of fans blindly follow celebrity advice, Holivita offers a revolutionary approach: personalized medicine based on your DNA, not Instagram trends.

The NAD+ scenario stands as a case study of a molecule that, albeit profound with benefits, can be wrapped in marketing hype when applied to human wellness. Holivita is committed to ensuring that your well-being is not a leap of faith based on the words of paid social media influencers but a carefully calibrated journey powered by your biological blueprint. The real question isn't whether NAD+ works.

The question is whether it works for YOU. And for the first time in history, we'll have a scientific way to find out.

How Economic Trends Shape Everyday Lifestyle Choices

Economic trends might seem like abstract forces in the background, but they have a way of sneaking into our daily lives. Whether it's the cost of groceries, the type of car you choose or even where you decide to live, the economy plays a big role in shaping the decisions we make. 

This article unpacks how these trends influence our lifestyles and explains why keeping an eye on the bigger picture isn't just for economists.

How Global Markets Influence Spending Decisions

On a broad level, global economic trends affect everything from the strength of your paycheck to the price tags on everyday essentials. When the economy is stable and growing, people tend to feel more confident about spending. But during a downturn, like a recession, many tighten their budgets and rethink purchases, even those they'd usually consider necessities. 

Take futures trading platforms, for example. While their tools are often associated with traders and investors, the ripples from the activity on these platforms can impact the general public. Futures trading helps set prices for commodities like oil, wheat and orange juice, which can directly influence what you pay at the gas station or the grocery store. 

If commodity prices spike due to fluctuations or anticipated shortages, families may start cutting back on certain items or seeking cheaper alternatives. On the flip side, when economic conditions improve, more money circulates in the economy. People may splurge on luxuries they held back on during tougher times, like dining out more often or finally taking that long-awaited vacation.

Housing Decisions and the Real Estate Market

Economic trends often paint a vivid picture when it comes to housing. Low-interest rates, for instance, can kick off a housing boom, encouraging more people to buy homes. But as rates climb, mortgage costs follow suit, making renting the more practical choice for many.

Consider inflation, another major player in this arena. When inflation rises, so do home prices and rent. This forces many to rethink their housing situations, with some downsizing to save money. Others might hesitate to buy, even when rates are low, because inflated prices feel like too big an investment for the moment.

The economic impact doesn't stop there. Shifts in employment trends, like work-from-home flexibility, can push people to relocate from urban areas with sky-high rents to suburbs or rural towns where they can afford more space. The result is a reshaped housing market and, for many, a lifestyle shift entirely.

Jobs, Wages and Career Choices

Your paycheck is one of the most obvious points where economic trends intersect with daily life. When the economy is strong, wages often rise, and job opportunities expand. This gives people a sense of financial security, encouraging them to spend on non-essentials like gym memberships, streaming services or hobbies they've been curious to try.

But what happens during periods of economic uncertainty? Job markets tighten, wage growth slows and, sometimes, layoffs occur. Many people respond by shifting their career strategies, like opting for more stable fields even if they don't align perfectly with their passions. Others pursue "side hustles" to pad their income, creating a gig economy boom in response to financial pressure.

The Impact on Food and Lifestyle Priorities

If there's one area where economic trends are felt most immediately, it's the cost of food and daily goods. Go to any grocery store during a period of inflation and you'll likely notice things like smaller packages (shrinkflation) or steeper prices on staples like eggs and bread. These rising costs can shift consumer habits, with people opting for generic brands, buying in bulk or even exploring community-supported agriculture for fresher, more affordable produce.

Economic trends can also make people reconsider their broader lifestyle choices. For instance, during times of financial strain, consumers often become more resourceful, focusing on sustainability and cost-saving measures. This might mean using public transport instead of driving, growing vegetables in a home garden, or joining local swap groups to trade goods instead of spending.

Final Thoughts

Economic trends might seem overwhelming or far removed from your everyday life, but in reality, they influence everything from the price of coffee to where you live and how you work. By paying attention to these larger patterns, you can make informed lifestyle choices that help you weather economic storms and take advantage of periods of growth. 

Whether you're swapping out name-brand groceries or plotting your next career move, the economy plays a silent but powerful role in shaping your choices. And while the future may be unpredictable, understanding these trends can help you stay one step ahead.

EXCLUSIVE: 7 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets From 'The Snake'

The Snake is slithering its way into our hearts Tuesday nights on FOX. Our latest reality TV obsession sees 15 contestants from various persuasive professions – the cast includes a lawyer, a detective, a bounty hunter, a professional poker player, a makeup artist and a pastor – as they face off in a series of challenges designed to determine who's the most cold-blooded among them. With $100,000 on the line, things get chilly as the competition heats up!

Wonderwall.com exclusively caught up with executive producer and showrunner SallyAnn Salsano – her past credits include Jersey Shore and Joe Millionaire: For Richer or Poorer — to get the scoop on the Jim Jefferies-hosted reality show. Keep reading for seven secrets from behind-the-scenes…

Courtesy of Fox

1. The Snake takes its inspiration from high school gym class

Unlike other reality competition shows, "majority doesn't rule" on The Snake. "Every vote is out in the open. You only need one ally to stay in the game. It brings back high school gym class where you don't want to be picked last," Salsano says, adding that in the casting process, producers "went all in on the archetypes." Sounds just like high school, right?!

2. The competition's biggest twists and turns center around the players

"We casted based on archetypes, and it was fun seeing who did as predicted and who surprised us – who played with honesty and who played shady. It changed day by day, hour by hour," Salsano says. "I love playing the armchair version of 'what would I do?' I think everyone will agree to that."

3. Major shocks are in store

"Episode 9 was the most shocking episode of television I have ever worked on," Salsano teases. She also says she was "so nervous" when "the pastor was in hot water." The shocks really kick off in week two, she warns, teasing, "Is honesty the best policy?"

4. Watch out for the tech exec

Salsano warns that Kethryn Cavender (The Tech Manager) is "playing a weird game – one for viewers and one for the rest of the cast." Says the producer, "It literally changes so fast. I have never seen anything like it."

5. Everything is on the table with $100K on the line

"I always say I will never make someone do something I wouldn't do, but there is very little I wouldn't do," Salsano says. "That being said, I didn't say I would like it. But for $100,000?! Oh my God."

6. There are too many real snakes on the show to count

According to Salsano, "a wide, beautiful variety" of real snakes appear on the show. "Enjoy! I love that yellow one," she says.

7. Jefferies is basically a snake wrangler

Jefferies is the perfect fit to host The Snake because he's "come across quite a few snakes in his career," Salsano says, adding that the actor-comedian is also "quick-witted" and "savvy to the game play."

Keep up with The Snake Tuesday nights on FOX.

Trump Put California at Wildfire Risk, Newsom Says

Gavin Newsom is sounding the alarm.

Just five months after historic wildfires ripped through the greater Los Angeles area, the Ranch Fire is prompting evacuations in nearby San Bernardino County's Apple Valley. Late on Wednesday, June 11, authorities warned that the blaze is severely threatening multiple structures, and as warm temperatures and fast winds risk further fueling the inferno, the state's emergency services may be ill-equipped to stop it.

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

"The Ranch Fire in San Bernardino is 4,000 acres and growing. Meanwhile, 5 of California's 14 National Guard fire crews are understaffed… because Trump deployed them for a political stunt in LA. This isn't just illegal. It's dangerous," California's Democratic governor posted on X on Wednesday morning.

A day earlier, Newsom called out Donald Trump for commandeering California's National Guard and deploying thousands of troops to Los Angeles to shut down anti-ICE protests in the wake of a series of raids across the city.

"Donald Trump, without consulting with California's law enforcement leaders, commandeered 2,000 of our state's National Guard members to deploy on our streets. Illegally, and for no reason. This brazen abuse of power by a sitting President inflamed a combustible situation putting our people, our officers, and the National Guard at risk," he wrote on June 10.

As for the Ranch Fire, containment of the blaze reportedly grew to 10% by Wednesday morning, though officials warned that weather conditions through Thursday could impede further progress.

CAL FIRE noted that "increasing southerly winds, with gusts up to 32 mph" on Wednesday afternoon created "conditions that may challenge containment efforts."

"Poor to moderate overnight recovery is expected, with similar weather continuing into Thursday," the agency said. "Crews will focus on strengthening containment lines, protecting structures, and continuing mop-up efforts throughout the day."

At least one home has been destroyed so far.

Newsom's post about the Ranch Fire earned plenty of heat on X. One critic asked the social media platform's Grok bot to clarify if it's "typical of the leftist California government to send the guard out right away" opposed to sending "civilian fireman first to deal with the flames."

"If the answer is no, isn't it hypocritical of this leftist to send the guard out right away like he claim and lied that Trump did?" the critic asked.

Wrote Grok, "In California, civilian firefighters, like those from CAL FIRE, typically respond first to wildfires, with the National Guard called in for large-scale fires. No evidence shows Governor Newsom deploying the Guard for the Ranch Fire; he's criticizing Trump's deployment of 2,000 Guard troops to Los Angeles for protests, claiming it understaffs fire crews. This isn't hypocritical, as Newsom isn't mirroring Trump's actions but highlighting their impact on firefighting resources. The claim about understaffed crews lacks full verification."

While the National Guard may not fight every wildfire, it's worth noting that more than 2,700 National Guard members responded to the Pacific Palisades fire in January. They also participated in mop-up efforts after the fires, working in conjunction with CAL FIRE.

'The White Lotus' Stars Reunite in New Musical Project

Breakout The White Lotus season 3 stars Patrick Schwarzenegger and Aimee Lou Wood are sharing the screen again.

The duo costar in Venmo's new "Venmo Everything" campaign, which sees them dancing along to an updated version of Black Sheep's classic hip-hop track "The Choice Is Yours" and emulating Old Hollywood musicals.

YouTube/Venmo

"Wait, I thought Venmo was for paying people?" Wood asks Schwarzenegger as he uses the payments platform to book a car from a rideshare service as they make their way out of a café.

"Yeah, and for everything else," he replies.

"Everything?" she asks.

"Everything!" he responds, sending them on a journey to see just how easy (and rewarding) it is to shop, split and spend with Venmo.

At a record store, the English actress drops a needle on a vinyl record and asks the nepo baby, "Can you Venmo this?"

Schwarzenegger replies with a smirk, "You can Venmo that."

As the "You Can Venmo This, You Can Venmo That" remix jingle begins to play, Wood and Schwarzenegger use the platform to pay for records, groceries, fancy new duds, air travel, in-flight refreshments and more – all as they show off their retro-style dance moves alongside fellow consumers.

They ultimately land in a fantasy dreamscape, clad in all white, and channel Old Hollywood as they close out the dance number — though Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, they are not!

YouTube/Venmo

"Now you can Venmo everything. Get the Venmo Debit Card and get up to 15% cash back," Schwarzenegger says as he and Wood plop into a pair of director's chairs.

"Hungry?" she asks him.

"Always," he says as she uses Venmo to snap up a smoothie in a sly nod to his The White Lotus alter ego.

"Everybody I know uses Venmo for splitting costs for dinners, concert tickets and vacations, so I had to get Aimee Lou on board to make her life easier," Schwarzenegger said of his partnership with Venmo. "As an entrepreneur, I'm really serious about my 'rewards game,' so it's a win — I can earn cash back when I pay with the Venmo Debit Card. I love a rewards hack."

Said Wood, "Hanging out with my lovely friend Patrick, I quickly found out that Venmo is a go-to way for people in the States to send money to friends, but it's so much more than that. As an Aquarius, I tend to be quite clever with money, so I love that you can earn some serious cash back when you spend your balance with the Venmo Debit Card – that means another astrology reading for me!"

Learn more about Venmo at Venmo.com, and check out Schwarzenegger and Wood's musical-themed team-up in the video below.

How Leroy Ter Braak Helps YouTube Creators Achieve Lasting Success

While not a household name, he has played a key role behind many successful YouTube channels and is now helping creators navigate the platform's algorithm.

Leroy Ter Braak doesn't create viral videos himself but helps other creators optimize their content for sustained growth and visibility.

Courtesy of Leroy Ter Braak

The Dutch-born strategist has established himself as a trusted figure within the YouTube ecosystem, engineering explosive growth for creators and brands alike. With over 1.2 billion views linked to his clients and significant growth on his personal channel, Ter Braak has developed a strategic approach to growing audiences on YouTube.

And it all started in a single-parent home.

"I didn't have fancy gear or connections," Ter Braak says. "What I had was an obsession with why some videos blew up and others flopped." That obsession turned into a career. By 16, he was uploading English-language videos in a country where most stuck to Dutch. By his mid-20s, he was consulting for giants in the entertainment and gaming industries.

But the corporate world didn't fulfill him. "I was getting paid well, but I felt like I always had to play to their tune," he says. After selling his shares in the creative agency he built, he returned to his roots: helping creators rise.

Since then, he's become YouTube's secret weapon.

Just ask Christian Peverelli, who turned no-code tutorials into a YouTube empire, jumping from 20K to 250K+ subscribers in less than two years. Or the Golden Kobe Family, whose dog rescue channel exploded from 30K to 267K in under eight months after Ter Braak joined their team and led the strategic vision. In Dubai, his work with Forever Estates UAE helped turn a brand-new channel into a six-figure-per-month revenue stream in just half a year.

His secret weapon? He developed a system called the IDEAL Framework, a five-step blueprint that combines data with storytelling and strips the guesswork out of YouTube growth.

"It's not magic," he says. "It's a battle-tested framework that is based on how humans behave on YouTube."

Courtesy of Leroy Ter Braak

So, are you a YouTuber who needs to know how this framework functions? Here's how Leroy broke it down:

1. Idea: Spend way more time on ideas than you think is necessary. This is everything, because if this part fails, nothing else after this matters.

2. Data: Pick your best ideas and validate them on YouTube; have similar video ideas received millions of views before? You are on the right track.

3. Execution: How can you better execute what is already out there? Better storytelling? Better editing? You need to stand out, or else you'll be working on a worse version of what a viewer has already seen before.

4. Analyze: Once you have your draft done, analyze it into oblivion. Have unbiased people watch your video. See where they get distracted and what parts make them be an active viewer again. Fix the parts where they show disinterest and polish your video.

5. Longevity: Always ask yourself this: Will this video bring me one percent closer to my five-year goal, and does this video align with the audience I want to attract? Many YouTubers do not think past the next upload, which can be detrimental to long-term growth.

It's worked for clients in education, real estate, entertainment, tech, even sports and finance. Some of his projects are locked behind NDAs but include collaborations with NBA Hall of Famers, some of the biggest YouTubers in their niches and creators generating six figures a month. One of his current YouTube automation projects is scaling at record speed.

"He doesn't chase trends," JJ from the Golden Kobe Family YouTube channel says. "He builds machines. And besides that, he truly looks out for me and ensures we don't burn out when the going gets tough."

What sets Ter Braak apart is his focus on strategy rather than the spotlight. He works behind the scenes, identifying areas for improvement and helping creators maintain momentum. His dedication to supporting the growth of YouTube creators is evident in his approach.

But it wasn't always a smooth ride for Leroy.

Ter Braak dropped out of college, faced endless rejection and admits to moments when he nearly gave up. "There were nights I thought I'd made a mistake," he confesses. "I sold my shares in my company and was left with nothing but a few months of financial runway and a newborn. But deep down, I knew that my decision in 2009 to press that record button and the obsession that came out of that was worth something to some creators out there."

He doesn't emphasize hustle culture but values consistency, which he believes is more important than raw talent. "Most creators quit too early," he says. "They mainly want the fame that comes with being a top creator, but they don't want the thousands of hours of tinkering in the lab before things start falling into place."

Now, he's mentoring up-and-coming YouTube strategists, advising media companies on their YouTube strategy and writing a book around IDEAL to democratize what he's learned.

"This isn't just a video-sharing platform anymore," he says. "It's the new Hollywood. The new Main Street. And the people who understand how it works will shape culture for the next decade."

While his approach may seem ambitious, Leroy Ter Braak is focused on long-term goals, not relying on luck.

Whether his name is familiar or not, his work has likely influenced the content you watch.

If Celebrities Bet on Sports, Here's Who They'd Pick (and Who They'd Totally Jinx)

Courtesy of Amit Lahav on Unsplash

Sports betting isn't just for the pros or die-hard fans — turns out, plenty of celebrities love to join the game too. But do they know more than a common sports fan, and is it better to follow their lead? Or maybe they're lucky in their career but unlucky in betting? Let's take a look at how some of your favorite stars might bet (or actually do) when the stakes are high.

DrakeЖ The hype-driven high roller (and certified jinx?)

Drake's betting history is practically its own genre of sports drama. The guy has dropped hundreds of thousands on single fights, and sometimes he wins big. Like when he bet $500,000 on Jon Jones to win at UFC 285, and Jones wrapped things up in the first round.

But then there's the infamous Drake Curse.

Someone even created a whole website, fully dedicated to tracking his cursed bets and team affiliations. Drake has an impressive track record of unintentionally jinxing teams and athletes simply by supporting them (or even just by taking a photo with them). From Conor McGregor to Serena Williams to even entire football clubs, being seen with Drake or backed by him has historically been a bad omen. The site even tracks which bets he's lost and won, the amounts and the unlucky players who got the "Drake bump" and then decides if Drake is currently "Cursed" or "Not Cursed."

To be fair, he does win sometimes. But at this point, every time Drake posts about a team, fans on the other side breathe a little easier. The curse is just part of the spectacle now, like a very expensive sports meme that won't die.

Charles Barkley: Loud opinions, louder bets

If there's one celebrity who's never kept quiet about his betting habits, it's Charles Barkley. The NBA legend has been betting for decades, and he's not shy about it. In May 2025, Barkley said he'd "bet any money" on the Oklahoma City Thunder to win the NBA championship. And the man puts serious money.

He's admitted to losing millions over the years, calling it "too much," but he still enjoys the rush. Barkley's bets are bold, so plenty of fans pay attention to who he's backing, just in case. But considering how much Barkley loses as well as wins, maybe blindly following his lead isn't the best idea.

Gemma Collins: Bets by vibes, not stats

Gemma Collins isn't your typical bettor, but that's what makes her interesting. The former Towie star has recently turned heads after landing a £500,000 deal with Paddy Power to front their campaign for Royal Ascot. She shot the ad in London and leaned into the fashion side of racing, especially Ladies' Day.

Paddy Power signed her after seeing how much buzz she created at Cheltenham earlier this year. She admitted to losing her bets there but didn't care — she was there for the vibes. "I just pick a name I like," she said, calling her method "intuitive." Not the most scientific approach, but hey, it's Gemma. And if you like to bet this way without hoping too much to win, you can use Gemma's example.  

Beyond Gemma's vibe, what about the rest of the celebrity world?

How celebrities might bet if they have to

We don't know much about other celebrities' betting habits (even if they have some), as most of them prefer to keep their lives private. But let's imagine how they might decide who they want to back up, even if it's just for a laugh:

Beyoncé: No public bets, but picture her buying a team stake, renaming the stadium "Renaissance Arena" and turning every game into a sold-out event.

The Kardashians: Bets based on jersey style. Kim's pick? "That away kit is Chanel ski lodge vibes — let's go!"

Pete Davidson: Bets on wild stuff like "first coach to spill water" and somehow wins big. Pure chaos energy.

Rihanna: Only bets on teams with show-stopping halftime performances.

Taylor Swift: She'd bet on teams with great stories — underdogs, comebacks or a bit of drama. Everyone needs a good story for the next song.

Tom Holland: He'd probably bet on the team with the friendliest fans or the funniest mascot, making the game more about good vibes than stats.

Elon Musk: Bets against the rules and tries to start his own league in the middle of the game. Classic Elon.

These are just fun images, but there is something about them, right?

Celebrities might not always play by the usual rules, but their bets make the game more entertaining, no matter if they're backing underdogs, chasing vibes or just having fun. Next time you go to Sportbet.one sportsbook and place a bet, maybe think about which celeb's style matches yours, because in the end, betting is as much about the fun as it is about the score.

Petals, Power Moves and Palm Beach: Bouquet Box Flower Bar Is the It-Girl of Floral Franchises

What happens when red carpet glam collides with hands-on flower power? You get Bouquet Box Flower Bar — the chic, franchise-ready brainchild of Courtney Sixx and Amy Nebens that's quickly becoming the VIP guest at every fashionable event. And its most buzzed-about moment yet? Max Mara's Spring/Summer 2025 showcase at the iconic Colony Hotel in Palm Beach.

Courtesy of Bouquet Box Flower Bar

Hosted by style insiders Kathy Hilton, Nicky Hilton Rothschild and Tessa Hilton, the event fused couture with creativity. Guests sipped cocktails in the hotel's blush-pink solarium before stepping into the BBFB experience: a full-on floral fantasy where attendees became their own bouquet stylists. With a photo-ready setup, blooms as far as the eye could see and that signature Max Mara shine, the Flower Bar didn't just participate — it stole the show.

Outside, long oceanfront tables were draped in BBFB's deconstructed floral runners — peonies from Israel, garden roses from Colombia and ranunculus that looked too pretty to touch. Blue-and-white place settings, hand-calligraphed name cards and coastal breeze made for the kind of moment social feeds live for.

Courtesy of Bouquet Box Flower Bar

But BBFB isn't just a pretty face. It's a business blueprint with bite. Sixx — former Wilhelmenia model, wife of Mötley Crüe's Nikki Sixx, red carpet regular and DIY darling — teamed up with editorial powerhouse Amy Nebens to turn their viral flower-arranging brand Bouquet Box into a plug-and-play franchise built for modern entrepreneurs. Forget brick-and-mortar. With luxe vendor relationships, 24/7 training and customizable event kits, BBFB is all-in-one glam and grit.

The idea took root in 2023 when supermodel Cindy Crawford collaborated with Bouquet Box for a Mother's Day edition. That connection led straight to Best Buddies International. "Cindy connected us to the Best Buddies gala. They needed a wow moment — and we knew exactly what to do," recalls Sixx. The solution? A floral bar where guests made their own arrangements, took them to their tables and walked away with more than flowers. "It wasn't just cute. It was connection, creativity and total joy."

Anthony K. Shriver, Founder of Best Buddies, agreed: "Everyone left with blooms and new friendships. It was a hit," he said.

Courtesy of Bouquet Box Flower Bar

Hit after hit followed. From Bloomingdale's activations to Miss America's crowning moments to high-profile fashion pop-ups, BBFB has proven it can scale beauty — and business.

"People crave tactile, stylish experiences — and they want to walk away with more than a gift bag," says Sixx. "With BBFB, we're handing them the tools to build something stunning — and maybe even a career while they're at it."

In a world where trends bloom and fade fast, BBFB is playing the long game. It's DIY with a designer edge. It's social but strategic. It's proof that passion for flowers mixed with the vision behind Hollywood's leading How2girl can launch a blossoming empire.

And this is only the beginning.

Tessa Virtue and Morgan Rielly: Canada's Golden Couple Balancing Love and Legacy

Tessa Virtue and Morgan Rielly represent a rare and powerful union in the world of Canadian sports. Both at the pinnacle of their respective careers, their relationship brings together two national icons — one from the poetic grace of figure skating and the other from the adrenaline-fueled battles of NHL hockey. 

Instagram/@tessavirtue17

Virtue's Olympic Reign as a Figure Skating Icon

Virtue's figure skating career is nothing short of legendary. She is one of the most decorated Canadian athletes of all time. Alongside her ice dance partner Scott Moir, Virtue captured the imagination of a nation and the respect of the world. 

Their gold medal victories at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and again at the 2018 PyeongChang Games were defining moments in Olympic history. They also earned silver at Sochi 2014 and an additional team gold in 2018, bringing her total Olympic medal count to five — three golds and two silvers. Her command of the ice was matched only by her charisma, setting new standards for artistry and athleticism in the sport.

Rielly's Role With the Toronto Maple Leafs

Rielly remains a foundational piece for the Toronto Maple Leafs. In the 2024–25 NHL season, he played in all 82 regular-season games, recording seven goals and 34 assists, totaling 41 points. His resilience and consistency throughout the season underscored his importance to the team's blue line. 

As the longest-tenured skater on the roster and serving as an alternate captain, Rielly has firmly entrenched himself as a leader both on and off the ice.

2024–25 NHL Season Stats and Contributions

In the 2024–25 NHL playoffs, Rielly continued to showcase his two-way excellence. Over the course of 13 playoff games, he tallied four goals and three assists, leading all Toronto defensemen in postseason scoring. His offensive production from the back end stood out, especially in crucial moments. 

Despite the team's struggles to advance deep into the playoffs, Rielly's performance remained a highlight and proof of his critical role on the roster.

Early Playoff Exit and Future Speculations

Once again, the Maple Leafs experienced an early playoff exit — an all-too-familiar disappointment for the fanbase and franchise alike. In the aftermath, speculation has swirled regarding possible roster shakeups involving high-profile players. 

As one of the core members of the team, Rielly's name has surfaced in discussions about what direction the team might take. However, his status as a leader and consistent performer makes his departure far from a foregone conclusion.

Their Love Story and Recent Marriage

Virtue and Rielly confirmed their romantic relationship publicly in 2020, and fans across Canada instantly embraced the power couple. In 2023, they were married in a private ceremony surrounded by close friends and family. 

The event was described as intimate and heartfelt, in contrast to the highly publicized nature of their careers. Their love story is grounded in mutual respect, shared ambition, and an understanding of the unique demands placed upon elite athletes.

Life Together in Ontario

Ontario has always been central to both Virtue and Rielly's identities. They now reside in the province, balancing their professional demands with a desire for a grounded, connected life. Their shared experiences in high-performance sports help them navigate public scrutiny, media attention and rigorous schedules. 

For those interested in exploring more about Ontario's vibrant sports and cultural scene, discover more about what the province has to offer. Their roots in the region make it a natural backdrop for their personal and professional ambitions.

Balancing Fame With Personal Growth

As household names in Canada, Virtue and Rielly are constantly in the public eye. Yet, their approach to fame remains measured and thoughtful. Virtue has transitioned gracefully into post-competitive life, involving herself in mentorship, public speaking and business initiatives. 

Rielly, still during his athletic prime, maintains a low profile when off the ice. Together, they prioritize privacy and authenticity, choosing to share only what aligns with their values.

Legacy Beyond Their Careers

Virtue's influence extends far beyond medals and championships — she's become a mentor for young skaters and an advocate for women in sports. Rielly, too, has been involved in charitable efforts, youth mentorship and team leadership roles that go beyond the rink. As a couple, their legacy is being shaped not just by their individual accomplishments, but by how they uplift others in the sporting community.

Public Perception and National Admiration

Across the nation, Virtue and Rielly are viewed not only as top-tier athletes but as genuine, admirable individuals. Canadians value not just their athletic achievements, but the humility and grace with which they carry themselves. Their love story resonates because it merges two powerful narratives — each marked by excellence, perseverance and integrity.

The Road Ahead for Virtue and Rielly

With Virtue exploring opportunities in broadcasting, public engagements and potential business ventures, and Rielly continuing his NHL career with steadfast dedication, the couple's journey is far from over. 

Their paths will evolve, but their bond remains central. They continue to represent the best of Canadian sport — not just for their accolades, but for the way they handle the pressure, passion and unpredictability of life under the spotlight.