Molly Stewart, the fitness model and podcast host, brought some serious spellbinding energy to her Instagram post. This time, stepping into the world of Harry Potter with a cheeky twist.

Molly Stewart's Slytherin Moment

Choosing the sly Slytherin House, the redhead stunner left fans bewitched as she posed in a cropped green-and-gray sweater paired with nothing but thong panties.

Snapping the pictures in a well-lit indoor location, highlighting her fair skin and fiery locks, Stewart's nod to the wizarding world came with just the right mix of fantasy and flirtation. Her knit Slytherin sweater looked warm and cozy. Below, her barely-there thong left little to the imagination, completing the spellbinding ensemble.

Abs On Display

In the photos, Stewart lifted her sweater to showcase her taut midsection and struck several poses for the camera. She completed her bewitching look with a gold necklace with a crystal pendant and metal-framed eyeglasses, which added sexy nerdy vibes to the shots.

According to the geotag, she was in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Fans Rave Over Molly Stewart's Photos

Since going live on Instagram, the sizzling share has earned plenty of likes. It also racked up dozens of comments from adoring fans, who showered Stewart with compliments and praise.

"Miss Potter I feel magic from you," wrote an admirer.

"You are the most beautiful woman in the world in recent years @thisredheadissfw," remarked another fan.

"100 points to Slytherin," noted the third commenter, while the fourth user added, "You put a spell on me!"

A Love For Cosplay And Fan Fantasy

Stewart has long been known for mixing fantasy with sensuality, especially through cosplay. She has appeared on Red Sonja cosplay covers from 2024 to 2025.

"I love doing cosplay (some of my favorite characters have been Red Sonja, Princess Leia, though I might have had more fun as Darth Vader, I think Leia was a fan favorite and that costume is how I got into cosplay back when I was a webcam model), Sailor Moon, and Gwen Stacy (have a little fan-made cosplay trailer on my YouTube," Stewart explained.

Talking About 'Mental Health' And The 'Adult Industry'

Apart from being a fitness star and cosplayer, Stewart is also into podcasting.

"I've been podcasting for over four years now," Molly revealed in a recent interview.

"I started my podcast after my divorce as a way to meet new people and have new experiences. So many changes have happened, from my dining room table to a studio set-up, the variety of guests, and so much more. While I do solo episodes, I love to have guests. I don't go into filming with much of a plan, but it's always interesting. The adult industry, mental health, comedy, and all my latest hyperfixations make an hour fly by."

Stewart is also into video games, such as Halo online multiplayer, Elden Ring, and Stardew Valley. In addition to Harry Potter, she's a big fan of Star Wars and Lord of the Rings.

Whether she's channeling comic book characters or iconic movie roles, Stewart carved out a niche in the adult world that blends nerd culture with uninhibited self-expression. This Slytherin-themed look is just the latest in a long line of fan-favorite content that straddles the line between playful and provocative.

For three days in June 2025, Venice was transformed into the stage for one of the most extravagant weddings of the decade. Jeff Bezos, the Amazon founder and one of the richest people on the planet, married Lauren Sanchez in a celebration that rivaled royal weddings in scale and spectacle. With an estimated cost hovering around $50 million, the Venetian nuptials were a masterclass in luxury, elegance and seamless execution. Here's a closer look at how that jaw-dropping budget was spent.

Venues That Dazzled

The wedding unfolded across some of Venice's most iconic locations. A welcome dinner was hosted in the cloisters of the Madonna dell'Orto, a 14th-century church steeped in history. The ceremony itself took place on the private island of San Giorgio Maggiore, where wedding guests witnessed the couple's vows in a historic basilica as Matteo Bocelli performed.

The grand reception was held at the Arsenale, a vast medieval shipyard transformed for the evening into a glittering event space. Originally, the reception was set to take place at Scuola Grande della Misericordia, but security concerns reportedly prompted a last-minute venue change.

Each location required exclusive access, extensive setup and logistical wizardry to prepare and secure. Between rentals, custom installations, lighting and staging, venue costs were likely several million dollars.

Five-Star Accommodation

The couple booked out five of Venice's most luxurious hotels, including the Aman Venice, Hotel Cipriani, Gritti Palace and the St. Regis. Entire properties were reserved, ensuring complete privacy for the high-profile guest list. With room rates averaging from $2,000 to $5,000 per night and three to four nights of occupancy, accommodation costs easily reached into the multi-million dollar range.

Some pre-booked guests at these hotels were reportedly relocated — with compensation — to accommodate the wedding party, further adding to the tab.

Jet-Set Guest Arrival

Close to 100 private jets flew into Venice during the wedding week, ferrying in celebrities, royals and VIPs. With chartered flights costing upwards of $50,000 each, transportation alone was a massive budget category.

Once in Venice, guests were whisked around by fleets of sleek water taxis and luxury boats. The city's iconic canals became exclusive thoroughfares for the wedding weekend.

Bezos's own $500 million superyacht, Koru, served as both a residence and party venue during the celebrations, including a now-famous foam party aboard its deck.

Designer Attire and Dazzling Jewels

Lauren Sanchez stunned in multiple gowns, including a bespoke Dolce & Gabbana wedding dress that took more than a year to create. With custom designs, hand-appliquéd lace and silk chiffon detailing, the gown alone was likely valued in the high six figures.

The bride accessorised with her show-stopping engagement ring—a rare 20-carat diamond estimated at $2.5 to $5 million — as well as diamond earrings on loan from Dolce & Gabbana's high-jewelry collection.

Bezos wore a custom tuxedo and changed into a sleek black suit for the reception. While understated compared to the bride's wardrobe, his attire still reflected polished, designer elegance.

Entertainment with a Star-Studded Lineup

Though early rumours swirled about performances by Elton John and Lady Gaga, what's confirmed is that the ceremony featured a moving performance by Matteo Bocelli.

The reception included live music, DJs, and high-energy dancing into the night. Given the calibre of the event, it's likely that top-tier talent was involved, even if discreetly. Entertainment, including sound, lighting and stage production, likely ran into the millions.

Gourmet Feasts and Fine Wine

Guests were treated to cuisine from Michelin-starred chefs, with multi-course meals showcasing Italian culinary excellence. Wine pairings included rare vintages and top-shelf Champagne, with speculation that birth-year bottles of Pétrus and Barolo were served.

With catering estimates at more than $1,500 per person for just one evening, and additional meals spanning the weekend, food and beverage costs likely approached $2–3 million.

Floral Fantasia and Bespoke Decor

Venetian venues were transformed with lush floral installations, featuring thousands of roses, orchids and peonies in custom arrangements. Florists worked round-the-clock to design centerpieces, arches and elaborate tablescapes.

Décor included imported furnishings, silk drapery and handblown Murano glass elements. The total design and floral budget likely soared into the millions, creating a dreamlike setting that balanced Venetian tradition with modern elegance.

Fortress-Level Security

Security was paramount. The couple reportedly hired dozens of private security personnel and worked with local authorities to ensure safety and discretion.

Venues were swept, drones patrolled the skies and parts of the city were blocked off to prevent disruptions. The city saw heightened police presence and controlled access to sensitive areas. The cost? Likely $2–3 million dedicated to security and privacy.

Charitable Touches

In a meaningful gesture, Bezos and Sanchez donated more than $3 million to local Venetian causes, including heritage preservation, environmental research and education. Guests were encouraged to contribute to these efforts in lieu of wedding gifts.

The couple also donated to local media initiatives, demonstrating a desire to give back to the city that hosted their milestone moment.

The Takeaway

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez's Venetian wedding was more than just a lavish event — it was a statement in generosity, craftsmanship and global hospitality. From private islands and helicopter arrivals to foam parties and fine art-inspired florals, the couple created a once-in-a-lifetime experience for their guests.

At an estimated cost of $50 million, this wasn't just a wedding. It was an unforgettable production that combined love, legacy and sheer spectacle — all set against the breathtaking beauty of Venice.

Jewelz Blu brings one of the most mysterious and iconic characters of all time back to life!

The 30-year-old OnlyFans star rocked a jaw-dropping cosplay that has fans doing a double-take.

Decked out as Evangelion's enigmatic Rei Ayanami, she nails every chilling detail—from the luminescent plugsuit to that thousand-yard stare.

Jewelz Blu Turns Into Rei Ayanami

In a stunning photo that looks like it was pulled straight out of a futuristic sci-fi film, Jewelz recreates Rei's signature look with astonishing accuracy.

The content creator rocked the character's skintight white plug suit. The latex masterpiece, crafted by Andromeda Latex, even featured the black and orange detailing. She completed the look with Rei's short blue hair and her recognizable neural interface clips.

Kneeling gracefully against a minimalist backdrop, Jewelz held what appears to be a battle-worn purple helmet. The attention to detail in the suit's design, right down to the tech-inspired armor plating and precise panel lines, reflects dedication and craftsmanship.

A Cult Classic With New Life

For those unfamiliar with the character, Rei Ayanami is one of the core pilots of the giant biomechanical Evangelions in the 1995 anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, a series lauded for its psychological depth, existential themes, and genre-defying storytelling. Rei herself is a quiet, enigmatic figure — part human, part something else — who quickly became a fan favorite for her haunting presence and pivotal role in the narrative.

The franchise saw a major resurgence in popularity after Netflix added the original series and its follow-up films to its library. A whole new generation of viewers has been introduced to the world of NERV, Angels, and the emotional complexities of Rei's character — and cosplayers have responded in kind, breathing fresh life into the character with high-level recreations like Jewelz's.

Cosplay That Tells A Story

What makes Jewelz's portrayal stand out isn't just the accuracy; it's the mood. She captures that delicate balance of fragility and strength that defines Rei. With a solemn, almost meditative gaze and a posture that evokes both peace and readiness, the image feels more like a still from a high-budget adaptation than a fan-made costume photo.

Evangelion's Enduring Appeal

Over two decades after its debut, Neon Genesis Evangelion continues to inspire new content, new discussions, and new tributes — and cosplays like this show why. Rei Ayanami, with her ghostlike presence and complicated humanity, remains one of anime's most unforgettable characters.

Raising Temperatures This Summer

When she's not cosplaying, Jewelz attends music festivals, such as the Hospitality On The Beach, a 7-day drum & bass holiday uniting like-minded ravers from around the world to the beautiful shores of Tisno in Croatia.

While there, Jewelz also took advantage of the sunny weather and the beach, where she flaunted her stellar physique in a tiny blue bikini.

Meet July FHM cover model Inessa Lee — the Boop-Oop-a-Doop queen of social media. Inessa's spot-on Betty Boop impersonation featured on American Idol made her an Instagram sensation. The influencer's Betty Boop parodies earned her the title of top pin-up influencer as per OK! Magazine. But they also dragged her into a social media scandal.

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A post shared by Inessa Lee (@inessalee_)

Inessa told a shocking story about cyberstalking in her FHM interview. It turns out she was cyber harassed by a former Broadway actress who played Betty Boop in Boop! The Musical. Inessa received life-threatening messages from bullies: "Her friends insulted me and asked me to [hurt myself]," she said, adding that the whole social media drama evolved around the Betty Boop character.

According to Inessa, her popular TikTok parodies aggravated jealousy and anger from a woman who has a dead TikTok account with 15K followers: "She blamed her failure on me as if I've stolen her spotlight in social media," Inessa alleged.

Inessa appeared on the cover of FHM as the incarnation of Betty Boop shortly after Boop! The Musical announced its closure. This news immediately triggered a backlash on Inessa's Instagram account. The actress who recently lost her job in the musical allegedly asked her friend Pierce Ream (@dangitspierce) to attack Inessa's account with nasty comments. "The funny thing is they are trying to prove to my subscribers that she will get a job. Go ahead, but leave my subscribers alone," Inessa shared.

In response to the hate, Inessa launched an anti-bullying dance flash mob on social media. The singer called for spreading the message of peace by dancing to her new song "Love Gun."

Many influencers from different countries have joined the "Love Gun for Peace" flash mob to help the singer deliver this anti-bullying message. Among the most prominent participants is a Michael Jackson impersonator from Japan, @michael.jackton.official, who has more than 12 million followers on TikTok.

The "Love Gun for Peace" flash mob also got support from the award-winning non-profit IFERS headquartered in Los Angeles. Co-founded by Quincy Jones, it has a music publishing division that distributes music for charity causes. This flash mob is a good example of how music can deliver a powerful social message to listeners.

Let's hope that haters will leave Inessa alone while her fans get to enjoy her new songs and Lolita-style pictures.

Are you planning to upgrade to the latest iPhone? You are not the only one. There are many iPhone lovers in Mississauga who want to switch to the latest model of the iPhone 16 series. But the question is, what do you do with the current one? Do you keep it? Or do you sell it? You can always keep the phone, but if you don't use it, then there is no point in having a spare one. Rather, it is way better to sell it and use the money to purchase the new series. When it comes to selling your old iPhone, you need to find a suitable buyer so that you get value for the product. Instead of looking around for individual buyers and negotiating with them, it is better to contact a buyback site and sell iPhone Mississauga. These sites offer a decent amount and are willing to purchase the smartphone in "as-is" condition. You don't need to fix or repair the device before selling it. In short, you don't need to take any headache. Simply contact the buyback site, and they will provide a quote for your iPhone. If you are happy with the amount quoted, then go ahead with the deal. If not, then check out another buyer. It is really very simple. 

Advantages of selling your existing iPhone before you upgrade to the latest model

It is the best decision you will make. Instead of keeping the old iPhone, it's much better to sell it for cash and use the money to upgrade to the latest model. The latest model of iPhone is loaded with diverse features and performance enhancements that make it worth every penny spent on buying it. Now the question is, what are the advantages of selling your old iPhone? Well, there are plenty of benefits that you will get to enjoy.

-You get money for your next upgrade:

When you sell iPhone Canada, you can receive a substantial amount of cash for it from a buyback site. Use this cash to purchase the new model. Instead of paying the entire amount from your pocket, you use the amount you get from selling the phone, and then add the remaining amount to buy the iPhone 16. This way, you get the new phone and end up saving money as well. 

-It is an eco-friendly choice:

Did you know that around 40 million tonnes of e-waste are generated annually, and mobile phones are a significant contributor to this amount? Hence, before you dispose of your phone, which will ultimately become part of this rubble, you should consider selling it. It is an eco-friendly decision. Think about this. 

-Helps someone get a phone:

There are many individuals who are not willing to spend a huge amount of money on a phone but are very interested in owning an iPhone. By selling your iPhone to a buyback site, you are giving these individuals the opportunity to purchase an iPhone without having to shell out a huge amount. 

Factors that can affect the cost of your iPhone

Before you sell your smartphone, keep in mind that certain factors will directly influence the cost. What are these factors? Well, it includes:

-The overall condition of the iPhone and its battery life
-The memory size of the phone or the maximum storage capacity
-The color of the device and whether there are any visible scratches and marks on it. 

Final words

When you get in touch with the buyback site, find out how much they are willing to pay you for your iPhone. If you think that the amount quoted is low, then don't hesitate to negotiate. Ideally, these sites offer a decent amount, so you won't be disappointed. 

A fire can devastate a home or business in a matter of minutes, leaving behind not only visible destruction but also hidden hazards that can worsen over time. Once the flames are extinguished, the clock starts ticking. Every hour that passes without professional intervention increases the risk of further damage, higher restoration costs and prolonged disruption. Hiring a fire restoration company quickly is not just a matter of convenience — it's a strategic decision that can save you thousands of dollars and protect your property from long-term consequences.

The Hidden Costs of Delay

After a fire, the damage doesn't stop when the flames are out. In fact, some of the most costly and dangerous effects begin to unfold in the hours and days that follow. Smoke and soot continue to settle on surfaces, corroding metals, staining walls and embedding into fabrics and porous materials. Water used to extinguish the fire can seep into floors and walls, creating the perfect environment for mold growth. The longer these elements are left untreated, the more extensive and expensive the restoration becomes.

Delaying professional help can also lead to structural issues. Fire weakens wood, steel and concrete, and without a thorough inspection, compromised areas may go unnoticed until they fail. What could have been a minor repair may escalate into a major reconstruction project, significantly increasing costs.

Immediate Mitigation Prevents Escalation

One of the primary reasons to hire a fire restoration company immediately is their ability to mitigate damage before it spreads. These professionals arrive equipped with specialized tools and knowledge to stabilize the property, extract water and begin the cleaning process. By acting quickly, they can prevent secondary damage such as mold infestation, electrical hazards and further structural deterioration.

For example, soot can begin to etch glass and tarnish metal within hours. If left untreated for days, it can permanently discolor walls and ceilings. Restoration experts use industrial-grade air scrubbers, dehumidifiers and cleaning agents to neutralize these threats before they become irreversible. This proactive approach not only preserves more of your property but also reduces the scope and cost of repairs.

Insurance Claims Are Easier and More Favorable

Insurance companies expect policyholders to act promptly after a disaster. Failing to take immediate steps to mitigate damage can jeopardize your claim or reduce your payout. Fire restoration companies are experienced in working with insurers and can provide detailed documentation, including photos, moisture readings and itemized damage reports. This level of professionalism strengthens your claim and ensures that you receive the compensation you're entitled to.

Moreover, restoration companies often communicate directly with adjusters, helping to streamline the claims process and avoid delays. Their familiarity with insurance protocols can prevent costly mistakes and ensure that nothing is overlooked.

Health and Safety Risks Are Minimized

Fires leave behind more than just charred debris. The air can be filled with toxic particles from burned materials, and surfaces may be contaminated with hazardous residues. Attempting to clean up without proper equipment and training can expose you to serious health risks. Additionally, structural instability and hidden electrical damage pose physical dangers.

By hiring a certified fire restoration company quickly, you ensure that the site is assessed and secured by professionals who understand these risks. They use protective gear, advanced filtration systems and safe cleaning methods to restore the environment without endangering occupants or workers. This not only protects your health but also avoids potential liability if others are injured on the property.

Salvaging Valuables and Reducing Replacement Costs

Time is critical when it comes to salvaging personal belongings. Items like furniture, electronics, documents and heirlooms can often be restored if treated promptly. Fire restoration professionals use specialized techniques such as ultrasonic cleaning, freeze-drying and ozone treatment to recover items that might otherwise be considered a total loss.

The cost of replacing these items can be substantial. By preserving what can be saved, restoration companies help reduce your overall expenses and retain the sentimental value of irreplaceable possessions. The sooner they begin, the greater the chance of successful recovery.

Faster Recovery Means Lower Disruption

Whether it's your home or business, the longer restoration takes, the more disruptive it is to your life. Delays can mean extended stays in temporary housing, lost income or interrupted operations. Quick action by a fire restoration company accelerates the recovery timeline, allowing you to return to normalcy sooner.

Professionals follow a structured process that includes assessment, mitigation, cleaning, repair and final inspection. Their efficiency and coordination reduce downtime and help you regain control over your environment. In many cases, early intervention can shave weeks off the restoration schedule, translating into significant savings in both time and money.

Conclusion: Time Is Money — and Safety

In the aftermath of a fire, every moment counts. The decision to hire a fire restoration company quickly is not just about cleaning up — it's about protecting your investment, your health and your future. From preventing secondary damage and maximizing insurance claims to salvaging valuables and speeding up recovery, the benefits of prompt professional help are both practical and profound.

Waiting may seem like a way to save money, but in reality, it often leads to higher costs, greater losses and prolonged hardship. By acting swiftly and choosing a qualified restoration team, you turn a devastating event into a manageable challenge — and save thousands in the process. Elevate your next renovation project with the trusted craftsmanship and decades of experience found at Zicklincontracting.com.

Ceramic coating has gained popularity in the auto detailing Calgary industry as a premium protective solution for vehicle surfaces. Unlike traditional waxes and sealants, ceramic coatings offer long-lasting durability, enhanced hydrophobic properties and superior resistance against environmental contaminants. While the cost of application is higher than conventional methods, the benefits often outweigh the price for car owners looking to preserve their vehicle's exterior. Understanding its advantages, drawbacks, and overall value helps determine whether ceramic coating is a worthwhile investment.

What Is Ceramic Coating and How Does It Work?

Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to a vehicle's exterior, chemically bonding with the paint to create a protective layer. Composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) and other advanced compounds, it forms a durable shield that repels water, dirt and harmful UV rays. Once cured, ceramic coatings enhance gloss and provide resistance against minor scratches, oxidation and chemical exposure.

Unlike waxes, which require frequent reapplication, ceramic coatings offer years of protection with minimal upkeep. Their hydrophobic nature prevents water spots and grime buildup, making maintenance easier. While not completely scratch-proof, they reduce the risk of swirl marks and minor abrasions caused by regular washing.

The Benefits of Ceramic Coating

One of the main advantages of ceramic coating is its longevity. Compared to traditional wax, which lasts only a few months, ceramic coatings provide protection for several years when properly maintained. This durability makes them a cost-effective option for long-term vehicle care.

Enhanced hydrophobic properties allow water to bead and roll off effortlessly, preventing dirt accumulation and reducing the need for frequent washing. Ceramic coatings also act as a barrier against UV damage, minimizing paint fading and oxidation caused by prolonged sun exposure.

Chemical resistance is another key benefit, shielding the vehicle from harsh contaminants such as road salts, bird droppings and acid rain. This added layer of protection preserves the integrity of the paint, preventing long-term deterioration.

Aesthetic appeal improves significantly after ceramic coating application. The coating enhances depth and gloss, giving the vehicle a showroom-quality finish. The smooth surface reduces imperfections and maintains a sleek appearance even under various weather conditions.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Despite its numerous benefits, ceramic coating is not a miracle solution. It does not prevent deep scratches or damage caused by heavy impacts. While it reduces swirl marks, it does not replace the need for careful washing techniques.

The initial application process requires precision and expertise, often necessitating professional installation. Improper application can lead to uneven coverage or reduced effectiveness, making DIY attempts risky for inexperienced users.

The cost of ceramic coating varies depending on brand, vehicle size and detailer expertise. Professional applications can range from $500 to over $2,000, depending on the quality and durability of the coating. While the long-term benefits justify the expense, some car owners may find the upfront cost restrictive.

Regular maintenance is essential to preserve the coating's effectiveness. Although washing becomes easier, the surface still requires proper care to prevent contaminants from bonding to the layer over time. Using pH-neutral shampoos and avoiding abrasive cleaning methods maintain the coating's integrity.

Is Ceramic Coating Worth the Investment?

For car owners seeking long-term protection, ceramic coating offers a valuable solution that enhances durability, aesthetics and ease of maintenance. Its ability to resist environmental damage and preserve paint condition makes it a strong contender against conventional detailing methods.

However, those who prefer frequent waxing or budget-friendly alternatives may find traditional sealants more practical. While ceramic coatings reduce maintenance needs, they require an initial financial commitment that may not align with every car owner's priorities.

Ultimately, the decision depends on individual preferences, driving conditions and maintenance habits. Those willing to invest in premium detailing solutions benefit from the lasting advantages of ceramic coatings, ensuring their vehicle retains a polished and well-protected finish for years to come. Whether applied professionally or through high-quality DIY kits, ceramic coating remains a revolutionary advancement in modern auto detailing. For expert car detailing services that keep your vehicle looking flawless, visit Cardetailcalgary.com.

The Outlander universe is expanding.

As fans wait with bated breath for the airdate of the final season of the beloved STARZ drama, the first preview for its prequel series Outlander: Blood of My Blood has just dropped before its premiere on August 8.

"Outlander: Blood of My Blood is a romantic saga that unfolds across time. From the battlefields of World War I to the rugged Highlands of 18th century Scotland, two fated couples must defy the forces that seek to tear them apart, intersecting in surprising and unforeseen ways," the network said in a statement.

STARZ assured fans the show will cater to new viewers "while also providing origin stories of fan-favorite characters from early seasons of Outlander and offering new perspectives that will change what viewers of the original series think they know."

In the new series, Claire's parents will be played by Hermione Corfield and Jeremy Irvine. Harriet Slater and Jamie Roy will portray Jamie's mother and father. (Caitríona Balfe and Sam Heughan have starred as Claire and Jamie since 2014.)

The debut season will consist of 10 episodes and will feature Tony Curran, Séamus McLean Ross, Sam Retford, Rory Alexander and Conor MacNeill.

Showrunner Matthew B. Roberts will join forces with Ronald D. Moore, Maril Davis and Jim Kohlberg as executive producers.

Watch the trailer — which shows Claire's mother Julia accidentally traveling through time, separating her from her true love Henry, as Jamie's parents Ellen and Brian fall in love amid a deadly feud between their families — in the video below.

Imagine a bird taller than your car, roaming free in the wild. For centuries, that was just a dream in New Zealand, where the magnificent moa, a giant flightless bird, vanished long ago. But now, something truly incredible is happening: a team of visionary scientists and an indigenous tribe are working together to bring the moa back to life!

This isn't a scene from a sci-fi movie; it's a real-life mission led by the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre, of New Zealand's Ngāi Tahu Māori tribe. They've teamed up with Colossal Biosciences, the cutting-edge company known for its bold de-extinction projects like bringing back the epic dire wolf, and legendary filmmaker Sir Peter Jackson. Together, they're embarking on a journey to revive the South Island Giant Moa, a bird that stood a whopping 10 feet tall.

What makes this project so special? It's not just about science; it's about wisdom. The Ngāi Tahu people are guiding every step, from the lab work to choosing where the moa will eventually live. It's a powerful blend of modern genetic engineering and ancient Māori knowledge—a true partnership between past and future.

Bringing the moa back isn't just a scientific feat; it's a homecoming. The project embraces mātauranga Māori, the traditional understanding that has guided the tribe for generations, ensuring that this resurrection is done with respect for both nature and culture. Colossal Biosciences is investing heavily in New Zealand, not just for the moa, but to protect all of the country's unique plants and animals. They're mapping the DNA of all nine moa species and planning their return to their ancient habitats. It's a massive undertaking, but the goal is clear: to restore an entire ecosystem that has been missing its giants.

Ben Lamm, CEO and co-founder of Colossal Biosciences, relayed, "We are honored to contribute our advanced computational and genetic engineering capabilities under the direction of the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre. This partnership represents a new model where Indigenous leadership guides scientific endeavors, recognizing that traditional ecological knowledge and cultural context are essential to responsible de-extinction and species preservation efforts. There is so much knowledge that will be unlocked and shared on the journey to bring back the iconic moa."

Sir Peter Jackson, a proud New Zealander, is more than excited about the possibilities. "With the recent resurrection of the dire wolf, Colossal has also made real the possibility of bringing back lost species. There's a lot of science still to be done, but we can start looking forward to the day when birds like the moa or the huia are rescued from the darkness of extinction. Exciting times lay ahead!"

Beyond the scientific breakthroughs, this project promises fantastic opportunities for the local communities. Envision new job opportunities and potential eco-tourism for New Zealand. Imagine how these initiatives will enrich lives and preserve the natural beauty of the land. This is more than just science; it's about building a sustainable future for everyone.