‘Work Wife’ of KCAL News Anchor Chauncy Glover, Who Died at 39, Speaks Out — Details

Chauncy Glover | Source: Instagram/chauncyglover
Chauncy Glover | Source: Instagram/chauncyglover

Mayra Moreno opens up about her close working relationship with the late news anchor Chauncy Glover, offering insights into their years together.

The unexpected death of KCAL news anchor Chauncy Glover at the age of 39 has left a profound impact on his colleagues, friends, and the broader community. Widely admired for his dedication to journalism and his warm on-screen presence, Glover was also known for his deep connections with his workmates.

Reporter Chauncy Glover on March 16, 2017, in West Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Reporter Chauncy Glover on March 16, 2017, in West Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Among those closest to him was his “work wife” and long-time peer, Mayra Moreno, who has shared emotional tributes to honor his memory.

In an Instagram post on November 6, 2024, Moreno expressed her devastation, writing, “An unexpected loss. My heart is broken. @chauncyglover ! 🕊️.” Alongside her message, she posted a series of photos that captured memorable moments between the two.

These images highlighted their close bond and playful friendship, including shots of the pair on a football field, where Moreno playfully reached out to tag Glover, who was holding a football.

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on August 2, 2023 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on August 2, 2023 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Another photo featured them standing side-by-side on the news set, dressed in matching blue outfits, reflecting their professional synergy. In a humorous image, Glover wore a large hat and mustache filter while Moreno laughed, showcasing the joy they found in each other’s company.

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

On November 7, Moreno penned a more extensive and touching message along with a throwback video where she and Glover exchanged light-hearted banter about their favorite holiday movies and gifts. The lengthy caption provided a window into their unique friendship and the depth of their connection.

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Moreno openly expressed her struggle to find the right words. “I have been going over and over in my head trying to find the right words but honestly nothing I type will make sense right now. I have so many thoughts and memories I can’t make it flow properly. So if you have time to read. This will be all over the place and long: sorry [sic]!”

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

In her heartfelt note, Moreno recounted Glover’s love for Houston and his commitment to his nonprofit organization, which aimed to empower young people and make a positive difference.

“Chauncy LOVED Houston and he LOVED his tribe, his family, his friends. He loved his nonprofit: The Chauncy Glover Project. He wanted to empower youth and he loved making a difference [sic],” she wrote, emphasizing his dedication to his community and his passion for giving back.

Moreno also looked back on their collective experiences and the close bond they developed over “8 plus years.” She described how they confided in each other, sharing “stories, laughs, ugly cries and more.”

Their connection extended beyond the screen, and Moreno cherished the authenticity of their friendship, saying, “What came out on screen was genuine, just like this video I wanted to share. This video basically sums up how we were.”

Moreno reminisced about some of their favorite memories, including their love for berry hill fish tacos, which Glover would often pick up between newscasts. Glover occasionally surprised her with flowers on her desk, a gesture she remembered fondly.

Despite his aversion to coffee, Moreno would try to get him to drink it, often laughing when he attempted to speak Spanish, repeating the same phrase over and over. Working weekend mornings was a challenge for them both, and they often motivated each other with dreams of eventually moving to a weekday schedule, which they ultimately achieved.

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on August 2, 2023 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on August 2, 2023 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Their playful teasing was another cherished aspect of their friendship. Moreno, who’s slightly older, recalled how Glover would joke about her age, calling her “old.”

Each year, as he got closer to her age, she humorously reminded him that he was “catching up.” The heartbreak of his untimely passing was evident in her words, as she wrote, “Now I’m just broken that he didn’t even get to make it to his 40th birthday!”

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Moreno’s tribute ended with a poignant reflection on the countless memories they created together. “So many more thoughts and memories and just can’t put it together nicely right now. 💔🕊️” Moreno’s words offer a heartfelt window into her unique and cherished friendship with Glover.

Their on-air chemistry and the joy they found in each other’s company often left fans questioning if they were a couple. Yet, this connection was rooted in a genuine, platonic friendship — one that made saying goodbye all the more difficult when Glover left ABC13 in August 2023.

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

At the time of his departure, Moreno posted a lengthy and emotional message to honor her former co-anchor and friend. Regarding their time together, she added, “Time flies when you’re having fun! Our first newscast together was October 2015… yesterday was our last newscast together.”

Accompanying her message were snapshots that encapsulated their journey from their first broadcast to their final day together on the anchor desk.

The images captured a timeline of their partnership, from their early days as co-anchors on the weekend morning news to their eventual rise to weekday primetime slots, solidifying their presence in Houston’s broadcast history.

Moreno described the challenges and triumphs they experienced on air. “We started weekends mornings together, which was rough yall! We ended hitting it off and we worked so well together on the anchor desk that working with him became easy [sic].”

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Their synergy on set led to new opportunities, including launching Houston’s first-ever 3 p.m. newscast, followed by promotions to the 4 and 6:30 p.m. time slots — milestones that were as groundbreaking as they were demanding.

“In this biz we meet so many people and we develop a bond [sic],” said Moreno, capturing the closeness that often develops in the fast-paced world of news. “We see our coworkers more than we do our families. This is what makes saying goodbye hard.”

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Discussing the nature of television work, Moreno added that the industry is small, and there’s always a chance that paths will cross again. However, she acknowledged the bittersweet nature of Glover’s departure, wishing her “now former coanchor” well as he embarked on a new journey.

She humorously addressed how many people had mistaken them for a real-life couple, even joking that it was because they “match clothes.”

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Glover’s affection for Moreno extended beyond the newsroom and was evident when she got engaged to her longtime boyfriend in 2016. The LA-based TV anchor’s excitement was palpable in his celebratory tweet, which read, “SHE SAID YES! My work wife is becoming a REAL wife! Congrats @ABC13Mayra He put a ring on it!”

Another tweet from him declared, “Yep! @ABC13Mayra’s [long-time] boyfriend is one lucky guy!” These light-hearted posts shed light on the depth of Glover’s happiness for his friend as she embarked on a new chapter in her personal life.

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover and Mayra Moreno seen in a photo shared on November 6, 2024 | Source: Instagram/tvmayramoreno

Chauncy Glover died unexpectedly on November 5, 2024, at the age of 39. Fans of the KCAL News anchor are mourning his passing, with many sharing their heartfelt reactions to the tragic news.

Glover started working at KCAL in October 2023 until his time of passing. He began his professional journalism career with WTVM News in Columbus, Georgia, but his passion for the field ignited much earlier.

At just five years old, his father built him a mini anchor desk, and Glover would perform newscasts for his family every Sunday after church in their hometown of Athens, Alabama.

For Glover, journalism went beyond simply reporting the news as he referred to it as his “calling.” He viewed his role as an opportunity to use his platform for positive change, using storytelling and community involvement to make a meaningful impact.

Over the years, he worked in various states, including Florida, Georgia, Michigan, and Texas, before joining KCAL in California. At KCAL, Glover co-anchored the 5 and 11 p.m. newscasts alongside Pat Harvey and also shared the desk with Suzie Suh for the 8 and 10 p.m. broadcasts.

Now, the people whose lives he impacted with his work as a journalist are mourning him and sending their love to his family.

One online user shared their grief, “Very very sad. So young. 🙏🙏🙏to his entire family.” Another expressed shock at the loss, “My Lord, 39, so young! What happened? Condolences to his family and friends!”

Many fans remarked on the untimely passing, “Gone too soon🕊️,” with another concurring“Another talented young man has gone too soon. May He rest in peace.” One fan reflected on the abrupt loss, “I’m in absolute shock. Chauncey was young and only at the beginning of his career.”

Others remembered how vibrant he was, “Chauncey was an outstanding anchor… Loved his personality and fun spirit on the news. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. May his memory be a blessing.”

A fan also shared how much Glover’s presence meant, “So very sad. Way too young. I enjoyed watching him nightly.” Devasted fans were left reeling, like this one, “This is so shocking. I watched him last week and now he’s gone at a young age. RIP CHAUNCY GLOVER. My condolences to KCAL 9 families.

Another viewer spoke of their deep sense of loss, “So sad, I really liked seeing him on the 8:00 p.m. broadcast. He will be truly missed. My condolences to his family, friends and coworkers.”

As much as Glover discovered his passion for journalism at a young age, his dedication to the communities he served was always at the heart of his work. He did this through his impactful storytelling and his community outreach efforts.

The journalist launched a mentorship initiative during his time at WDIV in Detroit. The inspiration came after he witnessed a young life lost on the streets. This led him to establish “The Chauncy Glover Project” (CGP).

As per the website, the project is a hands-on mentorship program aimed at guiding young men to become confident, responsible, and moral leaders.

The program covers a range of empowering topics, including dressing for success, manhood, etiquette, college readiness, tutoring, public speaking, and community service. Glover and his team of mentors met with young students in grades 7-12 twice a month for sessions focused on personal growth and enriching experiences.

After relocating to Houston to anchor at KTRK, Glover brought CGP with him. The program has since helped more than 350 young men of color pursue higher education. It has also mentored over 1,000 individuals, empowering them with the skills and confidence to succeed.

Glover also had a deep love for theater, performing in several national and Off-Broadway productions. One of his most cherished moments was when he was invited to sing at the funeral of civil rights icon Rosa Parks in Montgomery, Alabama, a tribute that filled him with pride.

In addition to his work in journalism, Glover was a highly sought-after motivational speaker. He traveled across the country, delivering impactful speeches designed to inspire aspiring journalists.

As a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, he remained committed to uplifting others. Glover’s personal motto was, “Fear stops where faith begins.”

Glover’s work in the community and as a journalist earned him numerous accolades. He bagged three Emmy awards for his exceptional storytelling and live reports in Detroit. This also included his heroic live coverage during Hurricane Harvey, where he helped deliver a baby after rescuing a woman in labor.

His dedication to his community was also acknowledged when he was named one of the Ambassadors of the Year for his work with Detroit’s youth.

In addition to these honors, Glover received recognition from President Barack Obama and My Brother’s Keeper for his impactful mentoring efforts. He was named one of Houston’s “Most Interesting People.” Additionally, he was voted one of the “Most Stylish Houstonians” by the ‘Houston Chronicle.”

Glover also earned recognition as one of Houston’s Top Black Professionals in the Top 40 under 40 list. The National Association of Black Journalists honored him with the Angelo B. Henderson Community Service Award. This accolade celebrates journalists who make a positive impact beyond their professional work.

Glover’s parents, Sherry and Robert Glover are devastated by his death. They wrote in a statement, ” He was more than a son and brother—he was a beacon of light in our lives and a true hero to his community.”

They noted that his work at CGP transformed and inspired the lives of many young men, adding, “His talent, warmth, and vision left an imprint on everyone who knew him, and the world is dimmer without him.”

Glover’s family also penned, “While we grieve this profound loss, we are comforted by the outpouring of love and memories shared by those who knew Glover as the passionate, gifted soul he was.”

The family requested privacy as they mourned and honored Glover’s incredible legacy. They said that though he was taken from them far too soon, his impact will endure.

Fans Notice Jimmy Kimmel’s Son Billy, 7, Looks ‘Healthy’ after Undergoing His Third Open-Heart Surgery Earlier This Year

Jimmy Kimmel | Source: Getty Images
Jimmy Kimmel | Source: Getty Images

Jimmy Kimmel recently shared a photo of his 7-year-old son, Billy, attending a Dodgers-Yankees game. The appearance warmed fans’ hearts, leading many to comment on social media.

In the post, the late-night host included a playful caption, “Congratulations to the Dodgers! Now will the Yankees concede?” Fans were quick to notice Billy’s healthy appearance, with supportive comments flooding in.

One user wrote“So nice to see Billy so healthy, even if he is cheering for those smarmy Dodgers,” while another expressed“I’m so glad and grateful to see you young man so happy. Stay strong and healthy always.”

Others joined in with affectionate notes like, “Great caption… and your son is so adorable,” “He is getting so big Jimmy,” and “Wow son much better. Yes, Jimmy!”

More fans showed their love, calling him a “handsome boy” and “cute little mini Jimmy!” The overwhelming sentiment in these comments reveals the public’s affection for the Kimmel family and their support for Billy’s ongoing battle.

Jimmy Kimmel, had previously shared details about Billy’s latest heart surgery, which took place in May 2024. In a post from that time, Jimmy opened up about the mixed feelings his family had going into Billy’s third surgery.

His words conveyed immense relief and gratitude, “This weekend, our boy Billy had his third (of three, we hope) open heart surgery. We went into this experience with a lot of optimism and nearly as much fear and came out with a new valve inside a happy, healthy kid.”

Jimmy extended heartfelt thanks to the medical team at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). He specifically mentioned lead surgeon Dr. Vaughn Starnes and cardiologist Dr. Tim Casarez. He praised the entire staff, calling their work “immeasurable kindness and expertise.”

Billy’s journey has been well-documented since his birth in April 2017. Jimmy revealed his diagnosis of tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary atresia, a rare and severe heart condition, just days after welcoming Billy.

In a May 2017 episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” Jimmy recounted the dramatic moments when a nurse detected something amiss during a routine checkup.

After a series of tests, doctors discovered that Billy’s heart had both a blocked pulmonary valve and a hole between the chambers, preventing oxygenated blood from circulating correctly.

As an infant, Billy underwent his first open-heart surgery, an operation Jimmy described as “the longest three hours of my life.” The procedure was a success, but doctors informed the family that Billy would require additional surgeries as he grew.

These included a second operation a few months later and a planned third surgery to replace the valve as he got older. Each of these procedures was necessary for Billy’s well-being, with Jimmy openly sharing updates.

Throughout Billy’s medical journey, Jimmy has shared his gratitude for the public’s outpouring of support. In his most recent post, he thanked “loving strangers who took time to pray for and send positive energy” to Billy.

He appreciated family and friends who provided strength during difficult times. He also praised his wife, Molly, for her resilience, calling her “stronger than is reasonable for any mom to be” and describing Billy as “the toughest (and funniest) 7-year-old we know.”

Jimmy has used his family’s experience to champion children’s healthcare access, especially for families facing similar challenges. In his posts, he frequently encourages followers to support CHLA or other children’s hospitals, which provide essential care regardless of a family’s financial means.

Jimmy also credits the Affordable Care Act for enabling CHLA to help families like his, mentioning how donations from companies like Disney and individual supporters sustain these hospitals.

“Please share your love, hearts, and prayers with [families in need] and if it moves you, support @ChildrensLA… or a great children’s hospital near you,” Jimmy urged in his post.

For now, Billy’s latest surgery brings a hopeful outlook, with Jimmy expressing a wish that this operation might be the last. As he continues to grow, Billy will be closely monitored to ensure his ongoing health, with fans around the world cheering him on every step of the way.

Billy, whose full name is William John Kimmel, is Jimmy’s youngest child. Jimmy is a father of four and shares his children with two different women. He has two kids with his ex-wife and two with his current wife, Molly McNearney.

Jimmy and Molly, a screenwriter, met at work. She went down memory lane in a February 2014 interview, relating how they went from co-workers to life partners.

While Jimmy worked as the host of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Molly was the co-head writer of the show. When Molly gave the interview, she confessed that they had known each other longer in a professional sense than in a personal one.

Molly shared her first impression of Jimmy during the interview and revealed the first time they met, he “insulted” her. At the time, she and her executive producer had walked into his office to introduce her as the new assistant writer.

Molly recalled, “Jimmy barely looked up from his desk until my EP said, ‘She competes in triathlons,’ and then Jimmy looked up at me and said, ‘That is really stupid! What a waste of time.'”

When asked whether she ever would have imagined being his wife then, Molly said it never crossed her mind because she never thought of him romantically. Moreover, they were both in relationships at the time.

Asked when the romance began between them, the Missouri native explained it was around 2010. During a get-together with fellow writers after the show, Jimmy asked everyone about their favorite foods.

Afterward, he invited Molly to his house, where he made her favorite meal. The pair spent more time together, and things progressed from there.

“We really liked each other as friends, and then it just kind of turned. He cooked for me, and that was it. It sealed the deal,” Molly divulged. She became more impressed by Jimmy after he made her favorite food from scratch and invited her to his home to eat, said Molly, adding, “[…] I realized how incredibly thoughtful and generous he really was.”

Jimmy proposed to Molly in 2012 when the pair vacationed in South Africa. The lovebirds tied the knot a year later, in July 2013, in Ojai, California.

They reportedly asked guests to make charitable donations instead of giving them wedding gifts. The nuptials were attended by A-list stars, including Matt DamonBen AffleckJennifer Aniston, Emily Blunt, and Howard Stern.

Being comical, just like her then-husband-to-be, Molly asked Gabourey Sidibe to stand in for her and walk down the aisle to surprise Jimmy as he was nervous on their big day. The bride knew the actress’ presence would lighten up the groom.

Molly and Jimmy have been married for ten years now. This is the first marriage for the blonde beauty and the second for the comedian.

Jimmy was first married to costume designer Gina Kimmel from 1988 to 2002, and they welcomed two kids together: a daughter named Katie Kimmel and a son named Kevin Kimmel. Jimmy has two younger children in his second marriage with Molly. The pair are parents to daughter Jane Kimmel and son Billy Kimmel.

Texas Singer Jada Thomas, 26, Shot Onstage in Front of Fans — What Happened at 5:50 p.m.?

Jada Arnell Thomas | Source: Getty Images
Jada Arnell Thomas | Source: Getty Images

The Texas singer was shot while signing autographs after a show with The Black Academy of Arts and Letters.

Jada Arnell Thomas’s performance at an event in downtown Dallas took a tragic turn. Fans have since flooded social media with heartfelt messages to the 26-year-old.

Jada Arnell Thomas attends The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 5th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas in Dallas, Texas, on September 2, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Jada Arnell Thomas attends The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 5th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas in Dallas, Texas, on September 2, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

In a letter addressed to the Dallas Mayor and City Council, the Dallas Police Department reported that officers arrived at the scene around 5:50 p.m. on November 2, 2024. Upon arrival, they found Thomas suffering from a gunshot wound after an audience member had shot her.

Jada Arnell Thomas performs on stage during The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 5th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas, in Dallas, Texas, on September 2, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Jada Arnell Thomas performs on stage during The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 5th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas, in Dallas, Texas, on September 2, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

According to the police statement, Thomas was transported to a nearby hospital and is reported to be in stable condition. Authorities identified the suspect as 26-year-old Micah Williams, who was subsequently arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

An arrest affidavit notes that police detained the suspect in a hotel lobby near 205 North Akard Street after a witness signaled them while they were en route to the shooting scene. As officers apprehended her, she attempted to sit on her purse, where they later found a handgun.

According to the affidavit, witnesses recalled interacting with her prior to the incident and described her demeanor as unusual and detached.

Now, online jail records show Williams is currently held in Dallas County Jail on a $200,000 bond. It remains unclear if she has entered a plea or has legal representation.

Police noted in their statement that the investigation is ongoing. Whether there was any prior connection between Thomas and Williams is still unknown.

A recuperating Thomas has shared a statement with her fans on her Instagram account, “God’s grace, mercy, and overwhelming love will NEVER cease to amaze me. Thank you to everyone who has called, texted, and came [sic] to see me. I love you all so much! The road to recovery will be extremely hard, but my faith in the Lord has never been stronger!”

Curtis King, founder and director of The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL), addressed the incident. He recounted the surreal moment when a shot rang out amidst the bustling crowd waiting for autographs after a full-house performance.

Thomas has just performed during the Talk Back, a show she was proud to put on with two other female artists. King was disappointed that the suspected shooter had shattered what he called their “safe haven” due to her ill “motives.”

Lucki Azariah, Rachel Webb, Curtis King, and Jada Arnell Thomas attend The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 5th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas in Dallas, Texas, on September 2, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Lucki Azariah, Rachel Webb, Curtis King, and Jada Arnell Thomas attend The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 5th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas in Dallas, Texas, on September 2, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

In a Facebook post on November 3, he reassured followers that Thomas was recovering and highlighted her strength and resilience. King encouraged continued prayers for everyone touched by her music and ministry, noting that she remains a “courageously strong, resilient, and devout child of GOD.”

Fans of Thomas have expressed an outpouring of support after the shocking incident but are relieved that she is on the road to recovery.

One fan shared their relief, “Very happy to hear she will be fine! Prayers for the entire TBAAL family.” Another fan added, “This is absolutely heartbreaking….thank God Jada is still here.”

Some viewers who felt hopeful due to a recent news update, commented“I was sad to hear about this, encouraged by your comments last night on the news Mr King. Praying for Ms Jada and TBAAL.”

Other well-wishers sent positive vibes her way, expressing“We are so happy to hear this give thanks!!! May her healing be fast and complete! Stay strong Jada!” Another fan echoed these sentiments, “Oh my goodness. This is horrific but I know God will pull her through.” Sharing relief, one person posted“Glad she’s stable! Praying for a complete recovery. 🙏🏾❤️”

Many, however, were dismayed by the act, with one user calling it, “Horrible.” Another person shared a firm stance, “That person needs to be in jail🔐!” and one person simply expressed“Man this is sad.”

Thomas’s parents, Carlton and Olivia Thomas have expressed deep gratitude for the prayers and support from her fans, friends, and followers. They reaffirmed that Thomas is steadily recovering, thanks to both divine grace and the unwavering well-wishes from her community.

They conveyed her heartfelt message of love and appreciation to everyone supporting her healing journey. While they value the overwhelming response, they request privacy and patience as Thomas continues to recuperate.

The family added, “She’ll eventually read and welcome all of the social media posts; however, we have to curtail and limit personal visits. Jada will sing again and it will be because of God’s grace and your prayers.”

The overwhelming prayers and support for Thomas have shown just how cherished she is by her community. As she continues to heal, it’s clear that the love surrounding her will help pave the way for a remarkable comeback.

This 80-Year-Old Movie Icon Proves You Can Age Gracefully – Photos of Her Natural Transformation

The actress | Source: Getty Images
The actress | Source: Getty Images

This seasoned icon has been honored as “the most beautiful film actress of all time.” Now in her eighties, she proudly embraces natural aging and has openly shared her top beauty secret.

This actress first captivated audiences with her role in the 1968 drama film “The Sweet Ride.” Initially cast for her striking beauty, she soon proved her talent, earning admiration from fans and critics alike as her career blossomed.

From her swift rise to fame to her graceful journey through the years, here’s a glimpse into this Hollywood star’s natural transformation and her thoughts on embracing aging.

The actress launched her Hollywood career in 1965 and quicky made waves. | Source: Getty Images

The actress launched her Hollywood career in 1965 and quicky made waves. | Source: Getty Images

Building on her early success, the actress launched her film career in 1965, quickly making waves in Hollywood. By 1968, she had gained attention with standout roles in “The Detective” and “Bullitt,” and her performance in “The Sweet Ride” earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Most Promising Newcomer.

The celebrity even graced the covers of top magazines, solidifying her status as a rising star at the time. In 1977, Newsweek crowned her “the most beautiful film actress of all time.”

Although the British native quickly became a Hollywood sensation, she later revealed that the journey wasn’t without frustrations. She shared stories of industry pressures to look attractive in every scene, even where it felt unnatural.

Looking back on her work with co-stars like Nick Nolte and Robert Shaw, she admitted, “It was a wonderful adventure… but at the same time, enough already.”

Despite her rapid rise, she noted that the Golden Globe she first won in 2014 hadn’t brought a flood of roles, largely due to Hollywood’s standards on age and appearance.

The celebrity's role in "The Sweet Ride" earned her a Golden Globe nomination. | Source: Getty Images

The celebrity’s role in “The Sweet Ride” earned her a Golden Globe nomination. | Source: Getty Images

The actress became an overnight sensation. | Source: Getty Images

The actress became an overnight sensation. | Source: Getty Images

The film star also believes her career was shaped by her natural shyness, which may have kept her from pushing for more opportunities.

“Most actors are shy. It’s very rarely the life and soul of the party who becomes an actor,” she remarked in an interview, suggesting it’s unlikely she’ll appear onstage at awards shows soon.

Still, she hoped for a chance to work with her goddaughter, Angelina Jolie, after scenes they shared in “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” were cut from the film.

Despite the ups and downs of a career shaped by both Hollywood’s demands and her own reserved nature, the actress remains grounded and refreshingly candid about aging.

When she received her first Golden Globe Award after over 40 years in the industry, she took a moment to share her perspective on beauty and self-acceptance.

Once deemed "the most beautiful film actress of all time," the celebrity believes her career was shaped by her natural shyness which hindered her from pushing boundaries. | Source: Getty Images

Once deemed “the most beautiful film actress of all time,” the celebrity believes her career was shaped by her natural shyness which hindered her from pushing boundaries. | Source: Getty Images

The actress recalled feeling frustrated with looking sexy all the time when working. | Source: Getty Images

The actress recalled feeling frustrated with looking sexy all the time when working. | Source: Getty Images

“I believe if you want to look good, you’ve got to forgive everybody. It’s the best beauty treatment,” said the “Rich and Famous” star. In addition to embracing forgiveness as a beauty secret, Jacqueline Bisset has opened up about her evolving views on self-image and inner beauty.

The celebrity has shared her changing perspective on beauty and self-acceptance. Looking back, she admitted in an interview that in her 20s and 30s, she didn’t value her appearance and struggled with “lots of complexes.”

Over the years, she’s resisted surgical alterations, believing, “I don’t think it makes you look younger. I think it makes you different.”

Bisset emphasized the importance of embracing one’s true self, saying, “You’ve got to get used to yourself. […] On a deep, deep level you have to face yourself and say that people love ME, the inside of me … it took me my life (to get there).”

She added that real beauty is about “being able to let go and realizing that life is kind of like a wave,” with highs and lows that, when accepted, create a fulfilling life.

Jacqueline Bisset has candidly talked about aging naturally and embracing one's beauty. | Source: Getty Images

Jacqueline Bisset has candidly talked about aging naturally and embracing one’s beauty. | Source: Getty Images

Jacqueline Bisset admitted that she didn't appreciate her looks when she was younger. | Source: Getty Images

Jacqueline Bisset admitted that she didn’t appreciate her looks when she was younger. | Source: Getty Images

However, Jacqueline Bisset has come a long way in accepting her natural look as she admitted it took a while to embrace herself. | Source: Getty Images

However, Jacqueline Bisset has come a long way in accepting her natural look as she admitted it took a while to embrace herself. | Source: Getty Images

Jacqueline Bisset revealed that she has avoided cosmetic surgery over the years. | Source: Getty Images

Jacqueline Bisset revealed that she has avoided cosmetic surgery over the years. | Source: Getty Images

As Bisset reflects on her career and aging, her grounded approach has only deepened. In a 2019 interview at 74, she recalled how people often advised her in her 40s to take every opportunity, warning that roles wouldn’t be available to her in her 70s.

But she believed in her staying power, saying, “I remember thinking, ‘I’ll still be good then’ – and here I am.” The award-winning star attributes some of her longevity in Hollywood to her choice to avoid plastic surgery, observing, “I look real.”

She believes the popularity of cosmetic procedures reveals an insecurity many women feel, especially as they experience menopause and grapple with physical changes. However, she emphasized that “a human being’s real needs are about warmth,” not appearance.

Continuing to share her insights on aging, Bisset spoke candidly in a separate interview about how her views on beauty have evolved.

When asked what advice she’d give to young people, she encouraged them to appreciate their natural beauty, saying, “Please enjoy your youth.[…] Wear those nutty clothes if you want to and show those legs.”

Jacqueline Bisset believes that plastic surgery only reveals an insecurity in women. | Source: Getty Images

Jacqueline Bisset believes that plastic surgery only reveals an insecurity in women. | Source: Getty Images

As such, Jacqueline Bisset said that what one really needs is warmth in their lives. | Source: Getty Images

As such, Jacqueline Bisset said that what one really needs is warmth in their lives. | Source: Getty Images

On aging, Bisset highlighted building a meaningful life beyond appearances, urging people to cultivate “interior content.”

The Hollywood star further explained, “If you don’t have anything inside you, you’re going to be pretty sad,” emphasizing that true beauty and fulfillment come from within, not from chasing a youthful look.

Jacqueline Bisset has encouraged young people to enjoy their youth while they still can. | Source: Getty Images

Jacqueline Bisset has encouraged young people to enjoy their youth while they still can. | Source: Getty Images

She emphasized embracing inner beauty more than anything. | Source: Getty Images

She emphasized embracing inner beauty more than anything. | Source: Getty Images

Now 80, Bisset’s reflections on inner beauty and aging gracefully resonate deeply with her fans. In 2023, an online admirer posted a throwback image of the actress on X, celebrating her timeless beauty, and the comments were flooded with admiration. “She sure was beautiful and she still is!” one fan remarked.

Meanwhile, in a September 2024 post of another old photo of her, another user observed“Really beautiful woman.” Another person described her as a “Beautiful lady in a very soft way.”

Others echoed this with sentiments like, “One of the most beautiful women in Hollywood.” Meanwhile, one other fan summed up the admiration, calling Bisset “A master class in how to age gracefully and be beautiful in Hollywood.”

Jacqueline Bisset believes that if one is not content with their inner self, they will be sad. | Source: Getty Images

Jacqueline Bisset believes that if one is not content with their inner self, they will be sad. | Source: Getty Images

After being in the entertainment industry for decades, Jacqueline Bisset still looks as beautiful as ever, as she ages naturally. | Source: Getty Images

After being in the entertainment industry for decades, Jacqueline Bisset still looks as beautiful as ever, as she ages naturally. | Source: Getty Images

Jacqueline Bisset’s journey through Hollywood showcases a rare blend of talent, beauty, and authenticity. Her reflections on aging and self-acceptance continue to inspire fans, proving that true beauty radiates from within.

I Married My Father’s Friend – I Was Stunned When I Saw What He Started Doing on Our Wedding Night

A couple getting married | Source: Freepik
A couple getting married | Source: Freepik

Amber had given up on love but sparks fly when she meets her father’s old friend, Steve, at a BBQ. As their whirlwind romance leads to marriage, everything seems perfect. But on their wedding night, Amber discovers Steve has an unsettling secret that changes everything.

I pulled up to my parents’ house and stared at the line of cars parked across the lawn.

“What’s this all about?” I muttered, already bracing myself for whatever family surprise was waiting inside.

A woman in her car | Source: Midjourney

A woman in her car | Source: Midjourney

I grabbed my purse, locked the car, and headed toward the house, hoping it was nothing too chaotic.

As soon as I opened the door, the smell of grilled meat hit me, along with the sound of my dad’s booming laugh. I walked into the living room and peeked out the back window.

Of course, Dad was hosting some kind of impromptu BBQ. The whole backyard was filled with people, most of them from his auto repair shop.

People at a BBQ | Source: Pexels

People at a BBQ | Source: Pexels

“Amber!” Dad’s voice cut through my thoughts as he flipped a burger with that same apron he’s had for years. “C’mon, grab a drink and join us. It’s just the guys from work.”

I tried not to groan. “Looks like the whole town’s here,” I mumbled, slipping off my shoes.

Before I could join in the familiar, chaotic atmosphere, the doorbell rang. Dad tossed the spatula down and wiped his hands on his apron.

A man walking into a house | Source: Midjourney

A man walking into a house | Source: Midjourney

“That must be Steve,” he said, almost to himself. He glanced at me as he reached for the doorknob. “You haven’t met him yet, right?”

Before I could even answer, Dad had already flung the door open.

“Steve!” he boomed, giving the guy a solid clap on the back. “Come on in, you’re just in time. Oh, and meet my daughter, Amber.”

I looked up, and my heart skipped a beat.

A man standing on a doorstep | Source: Midjourney

A man standing on a doorstep | Source: Midjourney

Steve was tall and a little rough around the edges in a ruggedly handsome way, with graying hair and eyes that somehow managed to be both warm and deep. He smiled at me, and I felt this strange flutter in my chest that I wasn’t prepared for.

“Nice to meet you, Amber,” he said, offering his hand.

His voice was calm and steady. I shook his hand, a little self-conscious about how I must look after driving for hours.

“Nice to meet you, too.”

A woman | Source: Midjourney

A woman | Source: Midjourney

From that point on, I couldn’t stop glancing at him. He was the kind of man who made everyone around him comfortable, always listening more than talking. I tried to focus on the conversations around me, but every time our eyes met, I felt this pull.

It was ridiculous. I hadn’t even been thinking about love or relationships for ages. Not after everything I’d been through.

I’d pretty much given up on finding “the one” and was more focused on work and family. But something about Steve made me want to reconsider, even though I wasn’t ready to admit it.

A thoughtful woman | Source: Midjourney

A thoughtful woman | Source: Midjourney

As the day wound down, I finally said my goodbyes and headed to my car. Of course, when I tried to start it, the engine sputtered and died.

“Great,” I groaned, slumping back in my seat. I considered going back inside to ask Dad for help, but before I could, there was a knock on my window.

It was Steve.

“Car trouble?” he asked, smiling as if this kind of thing happened every day.

A smiling man | Source: Midjourney

A smiling man | Source: Midjourney

I sighed. “Yeah, it’s not starting. I was just going to get my dad, but…”

“Don’t worry about it. Let me take a look,” he offered, already rolling up his sleeves.

I watched him work, his hands moving with practiced ease. Within a few minutes, my car roared back to life. I hadn’t even realized I was holding my breath until I exhaled.

A car engine | Source: Pexels

A car engine | Source: Pexels

“There you go,” he said, wiping his hands on a rag. “Should be good now.”

I smiled, genuinely grateful. “Thanks, Steve. I guess I owe you one.”

He shrugged and gave me a look that made my stomach flip. “How about dinner? We can call it even.”

I froze for a second. Dinner? Was he asking me out?

A smiling man | Source: Midjourney

A smiling man | Source: Midjourney

I felt that familiar flicker of doubt, the little voice in the back of my head reminding me of all the reasons I shouldn’t say yes. But something in Steve’s eyes made me want to take the chance.

“Yeah, dinner sounds good.”

And just like that, I agreed. I never would’ve imagined then that Steve was exactly the man I needed to heal my wounded heart… or how deeply he’d hurt me, either.

A woman | Source: Midjourney

A woman | Source: Midjourney

Six months later, I stood in front of the mirror in my childhood bedroom, staring at myself in a wedding dress. It was surreal, honestly. After everything I’d been through, I didn’t think this day would ever come.

I was 39 years old, and I’d given up on the whole fairy tale, but here I was — about to marry Steve.

The wedding was small, just close family and a few friends, exactly what we wanted.

A wedding venue | Source: Pexels

A wedding venue | Source: Pexels

I remember standing at the altar, looking into Steve’s eyes, and feeling this overwhelming sense of calm. For the first time in a long time, I wasn’t second-guessing anything.

“I do,” I whispered, barely able to keep the tears from spilling over.

“I do,” Steve said back, his voice thick with emotion.

And just like that, we were husband and wife.

A newlywed couple | Source: Pexels

A newlywed couple | Source: Pexels

That night, after all the congratulations and hugs, we finally got some alone time. Steve’s house, our house now, was quiet, the rooms still unfamiliar to me. I slipped into the bathroom to change into something more comfortable, my heart full and light.

But the minute I slipped back into the bedroom, I was greeted by a shocking sight.

Steve was sitting on the edge of the bed, his back to me, talking softly to someone… a someone who wasn’t there!

A man speaking to someone | Source: Midjourney

A man speaking to someone | Source: Midjourney

My heart skipped a beat.

“I wanted you to see this, Stace. Today was perfect… I just wish you could’ve been here.” His voice was soft, full of emotion.

I stood frozen in the doorway, trying to make sense of what I was hearing.

“Steve?” My voice sounded small, unsure.

He turned around slowly, guilt flickering across his face.

A startled man | Source: Midjourney

A startled man | Source: Midjourney

“Amber, I—”

I stepped closer, the air between us thick with unspoken words. “Who… who were you talking to?”

He took a deep breath, his shoulders slumping. “I was talking to Stacy. My daughter.”

I stared at him, the weight of his words slowly sinking in. He’d told me he’d had a daughter. I knew she had died. But I didn’t know about… this.

A concerned woman | Source: Midjourney

A concerned woman | Source: Midjourney

“She died in a car accident, with her mom,” he continued, his voice strained. “But sometimes I talk to her. I know it sounds crazy, but I just… I feel like she’s still here with me. Especially today. I wanted her to know about you. I wanted her to see how happy I am.”

I didn’t know what to say. My chest felt tight and I couldn’t quite catch my breath. Steve’s grief was raw, a living thing between us, and it made everything feel heavy.

But I didn’t feel scared. I didn’t feel angry. Just… so sad. Sad for him, for everything he’d lost, and the way he’d been carrying it all alone. His grief hurt me as though it were my own.

A sad man | Source: Midjourney

A sad man | Source: Midjourney

I sat down beside him, my hand finding his. “I get it,” I said softly. “I do. You’re not crazy, Steve. You’re grieving.”

He let out a shaky breath, looking at me with such vulnerability that it nearly broke my heart. “I’m sorry. I should’ve told you sooner. I just didn’t want to scare you away.”

“You’re not scaring me away,” I said, squeezing his hand. “We all have things that haunt us. But we’re in this together now. We can carry this together.”

An earnest woman | Source: Midjourney

An earnest woman | Source: Midjourney

Steve’s eyes welled up with tears, and I pulled him into a hug, feeling the weight of his pain, his love, his fear, all of it wrapped up in that moment.

“Maybe… maybe we can talk to someone about it. A therapist, maybe. It doesn’t have to be just you and Stacy anymore.”

He nodded against my shoulder, his grip on me tightening. “I’ve thought about it. I just didn’t know how to start. Thank you for understanding, Amber. I didn’t know how much I needed this.”

An emotional man | Source: Midjourney

An emotional man | Source: Midjourney

I pulled back just enough to look him in the eyes, my heart swelling with a love deeper than I’d ever known. “We’ll figure it out, Steve. Together.”

And as I kissed him, I knew we would. We weren’t perfect, but we were real, and for the first time, that felt like enough.

But that’s the thing about love, isn’t it? It’s not about finding some perfect person without any scars; it’s about finding someone whose scars you’re willing to share.

As a Teen, Rod Stewart Gave His First Child up for Adoption, but Decades Later, She Found Him – Rare Photo of His Daughter

Rod Stewart and two of his children | Source: Getty Images
Rod Stewart and two of his children | Source: Getty Images

Beyond being an iconic rock star, Rod Stewart is also a dedicated father. Meet the children he welcomed during various relationships over the years, including the daughter he had to give up for adoption after having her when he was just a teenager.

Rock icon Rod Stewart is known worldwide for his raspy voice, classic hits, and unforgettable stage presence. But beyond his music career, Rod has embraced another defining role — that of a devoted father.

Over the years, he has welcomed eight children from five different relationships. The eldest of the pack is the daughter he had when he was just 17 and placed for adoption. But years later, father and daughter unexpectedly reconnected.

Let’s take a closer look at Rod’s kids.

Rod Stewart performing at Tele2 Arena on June 8, 2024, in Stockholm, Sweden. | Source: Getty Images

Rod Stewart performing at Tele2 Arena on June 8, 2024, in Stockholm, Sweden. | Source: Getty Images

Kimberly Stewart

Kimberly Stewart, Rod’s second child and the first with ex-wife Alana Stewart was born on August 21, 1979. Raised by her parents until their separation in 1984, Kimberly forged her own path in the spotlight.

Known for her work in fashion, she graced the covers of major publications, including Tatler, American Vogue, and Elle, building a strong presence in the industry.

In 2021, Kimberly took a surprising turn toward entrepreneurship with her luxury organization company, The Realm by Kimberly Stewart. She said the idea came to her during quarantine. “I couldn’t stand looking at the chaos going on in my dad’s pantry and kitchen, so I got to work,” she revealed.

When she posted the results online, she was flooded with requests for her services. “At that point, the idea came to life, and I realized that I needed to reorganize closets professionally,” she explained.

Rod and Kimberly Stewart at the Langan's launch night on October 28, 2021, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Rod and Kimberly Stewart at the Langan’s launch night on October 28, 2021, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Sean Stewart

Rod’s eldest son, Sean Stewart, was born on September 1, 1980. Like his father, Sean pursued music, but he is perhaps best recognized for his 2007 appearance on the A&E reality series “Sons of Hollywood.”

The show followed Sean and other young stars as they navigated the highs and lows of life in Hollywood. In addition to his music and television ventures, Sean made his mark in fashion with his streetwear brand, Dirty Weekend.

Sean Stewart photographed on March 8, 2009, in New York. | Source: Getty Images

Sean Stewart photographed on March 8, 2009, in New York. | Source: Getty Images

Before launching the unisex line, Sean turned to his longtime friend and Talentless designer, Scott Disick, for guidance. “I always call him and ask him for advice, and he always gives it to me. He’s very good at that kind of stuff,” Sean shared.

Rod and Sean Stewart spotted on August 26, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Rod and Sean Stewart spotted on August 26, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Ruby Stewart

Rod’s fourth child, Ruby Stewart, was born on June 17, 1987, during his relationship with model Kelly Emberg. Ruby pursued her own entrepreneurial path, becoming the force behind BESO Shade, a clothing line specializing in protective sportswear for women.

According to her Instagram, Ruby is the founder and CEO of the brand, creating functional and stylish options for active women.

Renee Stewart

Renee Stewart, Rod’s fifth child and eldest with New Zealand model Rachel Hunter, was born on June 1, 1992. Following a different path from her famous father, Renee found her calling in the arts as a dancer, dedicating herself to movement and expression.

According to her social media, she also embraces wellness, sharing her passion as a yoga and meditation teacher.

Liam Stewart

Rod’s sixth child, Liam McAlister Stewart, was born on September 5, 1994, during his marriage to Rachel. Growing up in California, Liam pursued a hockey career, starting in high school and later playing for the Spokane Chiefs in the Western Hockey League.

His career took him overseas, where he competed in the Elite Ice Hockey League with teams like the Coventry Blaze and Guildford Flames, eventually moving to play professionally in New Zealand.

Outside of his athletic achievements, Liam recently celebrated a major life event by marrying his partner, Nicole Artukovich, in a beautiful ceremony in Croatia.

Alastair Stewart

Alastair Wallace Stewart, Rod’s seventh child and first with model Penny Lancaster, was born in November 2005. While he tends to stay out of the public eye, Alastair has shown a strong passion for swimming, even competing in — and winning — several races.

Alastair and Rod Stewart photographed on November 29, 2023, in Rome, Italy. | Source: Getty Images

Alastair and Rod Stewart photographed on November 29, 2023, in Rome, Italy. | Source: Getty Images

According to reports, Rod supported his son’s Olympic aspirations by planning to build a training pool at his U.K. mansion for Alastair. In addition to his athletic pursuits, Alastair has also done some modeling work, taking after his mother’s career in front of the camera.

Aiden Stewart

Aiden Patrick Stewart, Rod’s youngest child with Penny Lancaster, was born in February 2011. Though still young, Aiden has already faced some challenging moments.

In December 2022, Rod shared that Aiden experienced a panic attack during a youth basketball game, initially mistaken for a heart attack. “He was going blue and was unconscious until he calmed down. It was scary, but it turned out to be a panic attack,” Rod revealed.

Rod and Aiden Stewart photographed at a soccer game in 2017. | Source: Getty Images

Rod and Aiden Stewart photographed at a soccer game in 2017. | Source: Getty Images

Sarah Streeter

Rod’s first-born, Sarah Streeter, was welcomed into the world on November 6, 1963, when the rock star was just 17 years old. Rod and his then-girlfriend Susannah Boffey made the tough decision to place Sarah up for adoption.

Reflecting on his choice, Rod later admitted he was “dead broke” and simply unable to support a child. Sarah spent her early years in foster care before she was adopted at five by Gerald and Evelyn Thubron, who raised her as their own.

Rod Stewart circa 1964. | Source: Getty Images

Rod Stewart circa 1964. | Source: Getty Images

Sarah learned about her biological father’s identity at 18, but she didn’t reconnect with him until 2007 after both of her adoptive parents had passed away.

By then, Sarah had faced significant challenges in her personal life, including years of struggling with substance abuse, particularly in her early thirties.

Rod Stewart photographed in 1964. | Source: Getty Images

Rod Stewart photographed in 1964. | Source: Getty Images

She later admitted that her grief over losing her mother led to a downward spiral, culminating in a battle with crack cocaine addiction. “Why I’m still here I don’t know,” she reflected, expressing regret for the pain her addiction caused her loved ones.

Yet, Sarah emphasized the importance of sharing her experience, adding, “But I’ve chosen to talk about it because I think it’s important to be honest and to show that even if you hit rock-bottom, you can get over it.”

Throughout her recovery journey, Rod was a constant source of support. Sarah confided in him early on, and Rod, familiar with the struggles his own children had faced with substance issues, expressed deep concern and compassion.

Sarah revealed, “It’s not all new to him, of course. His eldest son, Sean, has had drug problems in the past and Kimberly had issues with alcohol, although they’re all doing really well now.”

Sarah and Rod’s reunion came about surprisingly. Longtime guitarist Jim Cregan recalled the moment when Sarah, eager to meet her biological father, showed up at a recording studio. Unsure if the woman’s claims were true, Rod sent Jim to investigate.

Cregan immediately saw the resemblance, noting Sarah was a “dead ringer” for Rod, with her dimpled chin and distinct features. The two began to meet cautiously, with Rod eventually signing cards and emails as “Dad.”

For Sarah, this gesture was initially strange, as she’d always called her adoptive father Dad. However, over time, she grew comfortable with it.

“[…] It has become much more relaxed and now he’s just Dad to me. You can’t get away from the fact that he’s Rod Stewart the star, but when we’re together I put that at the back of my mind,” Sarah revealed.

She added, “I’m not engaging with that person but with Rod the man — my dad. I feel like I am a genuine part of his extended family, which is wonderful.” Though she has met nearly all her half-siblings and thought of them as very friendly, Sarah acknowledged that their different backgrounds set them apart.

She described her sisters as “very glamorous and very beautifully turned out,” noting that she sometimes feels self-conscious around them due to their contrasting upbringings.

Despite these differences, Sarah values her place within the Stewart family. She’s had several family get-togethers with Rod and Penny, whom she said were “lovely.” Reflecting on her journey, Sarah expressed deep appreciation for her evolving relationship with Rod.

During an interview in 2013, Rod opened up about fatherhood and revealed that he was basking in the joy of watching his children, particularly the younger ones, grow. The rock star added that he and Sarah “[got] on really well with each other” and kept in touch.

Rod Stewart is a devoted father to his eight children. Despite giving his eldest daughter, Sarah, up for adoption, they have since built a close and meaningful bond, proving that family ties can endure and strengthen over time.

What Happened to This ’80s Teen Idol Who Left Hollywood and Turned to Christianity?

The actor | Source: Getty Images
The actor | Source: Getty Images

He was a teen star with everything going for him—fame, fortune, and a top-rated TV show. But just as his career was soaring, he made a decision that stunned many. Stepping away from Hollywood, he chose a path that few could have predicted.

As a beloved child actor in “Growing Pains,” he became one of the most popular young actors of the 1980s. Teen magazines featured him on their covers, and he was the go-to heartthrob for many fans. Yet, behind the scenes, he grappled with a growing sense that Hollywood wasn’t where he truly belonged.

The actor, circa 1982 | Source: Getty Images

The actor, circa 1982 | Source: Getty Images

By the early 1990s, at the peak of his fame, the star made a choice that would shock many in the industry. He turned away from acting and embraced a life of faith. This decision didn’t just alter his career; it transformed his entire worldview. How did his life unfold after he left Hollywood?

The actor poses for a portrait, circa 1980 | Source: Getty Images

The actor poses for a portrait, circa 1980 | Source: Getty Images

From Childhood Aspirations to Accidental Stardom

He didn’t set out to become an actor. In fact, as a young boy, his sights were set on something completely different—he wanted to be a doctor. His dream was to become a surgeon, but his career path took an unexpected detour when his mother, encouraged by a friend, introduced him to acting.

That friend happened to be the mother of Adam Rich, a child actor famous for his role in “Eight is Enough.” She suggested that the boy’s mother take him to an agent and try his luck in commercials.

Reluctantly, his mother followed the advice, and before long, the nine-year-old was booking small roles. His first acting jobs included commercials, like the one for McDonald’s. Though he found himself working steadily, the young boy didn’t enjoy acting.

The actor poses for a photograph on September 22, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

The actor poses for a photograph on September 22, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

“I was always annoyed having to brush my hair and tuck my shirt in to go drive an hour in traffic to audition,” he once reflected on those early years. Despite his lack of enthusiasm, his acting career gained momentum, eventually leading to his breakout role as Mike Seaver in “Growing Pains.”

The "Growing Pains" cast, dated July 22, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

The “Growing Pains” cast, dated July 22, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

As his fame grew, so did his internal struggle. Hollywood had much to offer, but he began questioning if that was enough. What would eventually pull him in a completely new direction was something unexpected—his faith.

The "Growing Pains" cast in 1990  | Source: Getty Images

The “Growing Pains” cast in 1990 | Source: Getty Images

From Atheism to Christianity

Growing up, his family wasn’t religious, and there were never conversations about God in his home. “When I was growing up, we didn’t go to church,” he once shared.

“If you had asked me, I would have said I would be in the category of an atheist at 16 years old, 17 years old,” he added.

The actor appears on the ABC tv special, "The ABC All-Star Spectacular," on September 12, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

The actor appears on the ABC tv special, “The ABC All-Star Spectacular,” on September 12, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

His atheism was shaped by those around him, particularly his teachers. “I think I caught my atheism—it was by contagion,” he said, referring to the influence of his science and history teachers, who dismissed religion as “just a fairy tale.”

At that point in his life, he was fully immersed in his Hollywood career and had little interest in exploring faith or spirituality. Yet, despite his disinterest, a chance encounter would soon change the course of his beliefs.

Kirk Cameron with co-star Dana Plato on November 5, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

Kirk Cameron with co-star Dana Plato on November 5, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

It wasn’t a deep theological conversation that first brought him to church. Drawn to a girl he liked, he accepted her invitation to attend church with her family. “I’ll be honest. It wasn’t because I was interested in God. I was interested in the girl,” he admitted.

Little did he know, this casual decision would spark a profound transformation in his life. As his faith deepened, it began to have a noticeable impact on his life and career, raising concerns among his colleagues in Hollywood.

The actor on November 20, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

The actor on November 20, 1985 | Source: Getty Images

Hollywood’s Reaction to His Faith

By the time he was 17, his commitment to his newfound beliefs had started to influence the way he approached his role in “Growing Pains.” This sudden shift did not go unnoticed by the show’s producers and cast members, who grew increasingly worried about how it might affect the series.

As one of the show’s key characters, his actions held significant weight. The show’s success—and everyone’s jobs—depended, in part, on him. The producers worried whether his deepening religious beliefs would take him in a direction that could jeopardize the show’s longevity.

The actor on set with a co-actor on October 21, 1986 | Source: Getty Images

The actor on set with a co-actor on October 21, 1986 | Source: Getty Images

“Is he getting into something that’s really gonna take him into Looney Town? And if it is, we need to stop that,” he recalled their concerns. He, however, was focused on trying to live out his faith, though he admits that at times, he didn’t handle it as gracefully as he could have.

“I was trying to take the moral high road. I wanted to please God genuinely, and I think sometimes that got misunderstood,” he explained. What was clear, though, was that his priorities were shifting—and Hollywood wasn’t sure how to respond.

The actor on set with co-actor Jeremy Miller in the movie "Growing pains" on February 18, 1986 | Source: Getty Images

The actor on set with co-actor Jeremy Miller in the movie “Growing pains” on February 18, 1986 | Source: Getty Images

The Dark Side of Hollywood

As his faith grew stronger, he also became more aware of the troubling behaviors around him in Hollywood. Over time, he reportedly witnessed disturbing incidents that further distanced him from the industry.

“The evil, the darkness, the twisted sickness of Hollywood has been going on for a long time,” he said, reflecting on his years as a child actor. The former teen heartthrob, who began acting at nine, recalled being suspicious of the unsettling things happening behind the scenes during his time on “Growing Pains.”

One of the most shocking revelations involved his personal dialogue coach from the show, Brian Peck, who was later convicted of sexual abuse crimes. Peck’s name was highlighted in a recent documentary that uncovered the darker side of the entertainment industry.

The actor described how these revelations confirmed what he had suspected all along—that Hollywood was not the wholesome place it often appeared to be. For him, this environment, driven by power, pride, and ego, only reinforced his desire to move away from the spotlight.

The actor poses for a photo, circa 1987 | Source: Getty Images

The actor poses for a photo, circa 1987 | Source: Getty Images

He became even more committed to his faith and the values it provided, believing that the pursuit of fame and fortune often led people down dangerous paths. “When that becomes your God, rather than the God who laid down His life on a cross 2,000 years ago, you’re in for a world of hurt,” he stated.

His growing disillusionment with Hollywood solidified his decision to step back from acting. However, his life was about to take another meaningful turn that would see him focus more on family and faith.

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Life After Hollywood

Kirk Cameron’s departure from Hollywood marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. At just 20, he married his “Growing Pains” co-star, actress, Chelsea Noble, and the two started building a life together far from the entertainment industry. Together, they welcomed six children into their family, four of whom they adopted.

Kirk Cameron and Chelsea Noble in the movie "Growing pains," dated October 18, 1989 | Source: Getty Images

Kirk Cameron and Chelsea Noble in the movie “Growing pains,” dated October 18, 1989 | Source: Getty Images

Adoption was a cause close to both Cameron and Noble’s hearts, as Noble herself was adopted. They always ensured their children knew their origins and helped them reconnect with their biological families when the time came.

For Cameron, this focus on family became central to his life, as did his commitment to maintaining a strong moral foundation. One of the most striking examples of his dedication to family values came during the filming of his 2008 movie “Fireproof.”

In the film, Cameron plays a firefighter trying to save his marriage. However, when it came time to shoot a kissing scene with the actress playing his wife, Cameron refused to kiss anyone but his real-life spouse.

Kirk Cameron and Chelsea Noble at Westbury Hotel in New York City on June 28, 1996 | Source: Getty Images

Kirk Cameron and Chelsea Noble at Westbury Hotel in New York City on June 28, 1996 | Source: Getty Images

To honor his marriage vows, the filmmakers worked around this by dressing Noble as the movie’s female lead and filming the scene in silhouette. Cameron later explained, “I have a commitment not to kiss any other woman,” showing how seriously he took his beliefs.

With Hollywood in the rearview mirror, Cameron’s life became less about fame and more about staying true to the values he cherished. But his journey wasn’t over—he soon made another major decision that would further change the course of his life.

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Leaving California Behind

In recent years, Cameron made another bold life decision—leaving the place where he had spent most of his life and built his career. In early 2021, Cameron took to social media to share his intention to leave California.

“I asked on social media what states people recommend for a Californian looking to relocate, and the top responses were Tennessee, Florida, and Texas,” he shared in a Facebook post. Ultimately, it was Tennessee that won his heart.

Kirk Cameron poses on September 7, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Kirk Cameron poses on September 7, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

In subsequent interviews, he revealed his reasons for the move. Cameron felt that California had become unsafe and longed for a place that embraced more of the “wholesome values” he held dear.

He was drawn to its lifestyle, but there was another significant reason for the move—three of his children now lived there. It offered the opportunity to be closer to family while also enjoying the slower pace and community that Tennessee provided.

Cameron also spoke of the “healthy freedom mindset” he found in Tennessee, a stark contrast to what he described as California’s growing restrictions. He also called Tennessee a “hub for Christian projects.”

In Tennessee, he discovered a community of like-minded individuals, including other creatives who had left Hollywood behind. The state, with its growing entertainment industry, has even drawn a number of California “refugees,” offering a fresh start for those seeking a more grounded lifestyle.

With his move to Tennessee, Cameron found not only a new home but a place that aligned more closely with the values he had embraced. Yet, despite leaving Hollywood and California, his passion for family, faith, and storytelling has not wavered.

Becoming a Grandfather and New Projects

Cameron’s life has been full of milestones, but one of his most cherished moments came in July 2024, when he and Noble became grandparents. Cameron proudly shared the news on social media, posting a heartfelt message about the arrival of their granddaughter, Maya Jeanne Noble Bower.

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“Our hearts are filled to overflowing,” he wrote. “Our beautiful baby girl just had a beautiful baby girl, and we can hardly wait to spend every minute with her and shower her with love.” For Cameron, this new chapter as a grandparent brings even more joy and meaning to his family-centered life.

In addition to celebrating his growing family, Cameron continued his passion for projects that align with his faith and values. In 2022, he released the film “Lifemark,” which explores the beauty of adoption and the value of life.

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The movie was particularly meaningful to him, given his personal connection to adoption as a father of four adopted children and his wife’s own adoption story. Cameron expressed his excitement for the film, emphasizing how close the story was to his heart.

Although Cameron stepped away from the Hollywood mainstream long ago, he remains active in creating faith-based films and media that reflect his beliefs. His focus on positive, uplifting stories that celebrate family and faith has become the hallmark of his post-Hollywood career.

With a growing family and a steady stream of projects that align with his values, Cameron’s life today is a far cry from his teenage days as a heartthrob on “Growing Pains.” But for Kirk Cameron, the path he has chosen has brought him a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Where & What Time to Watch the Northern Lights on November 8: Details

The Northern Lights | Source: Getty Images
The Northern Lights | Source: Getty Images

In addition to releasing information about where and when people can watch the Northern Lights, The Space Weather Prediction Center has provided useful tips and tricks for viewing.

According to view lines shared by the Space Weather Prediction Center, tonight and tomorrow night, on November 8 and 9, people in North America will have the opportunity to watch the Northern Lights.

The Aurora borealis, or the northern lights, illuminates the night sky in Shelburne, Toronto, Canada on October 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

The Aurora borealis, or the northern lights, illuminates the night sky in Shelburne, Toronto, Canada on October 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Specific states likely to witness the aurora on the northern horizon include Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota.

The Northern Lights in Wisconsin in 2024. | Source: Getty Images

The Northern Lights in Wisconsin in 2024. | Source: Getty Images

Additional locations include Wisconsin, Michigan (more prominent in the Upper Peninsula), and Maine, especially in the state’s most northern region.

The Northern Lights in Rileyville, Virginia on October 10, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

The Northern Lights in Rileyville, Virginia on October 10, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

The Space Weather Prediction Center’s forecast uses green and red colors to indicate the location, brightness, and intensity of the aurora, with green symbolizing the first two, and red the latter.

According to their prediction, the aurora is typically observed from Earth either just before sunrise or just after sunset, as the spectacle is not visible during daylight hours.

The night sky in Wisconsin glows with the Northern Lights in 2024. | Source: Getty Images

The night sky in Wisconsin glows with the Northern Lights in 2024. | Source: Getty Images

Far from needing to be positioned overhead, the aurora can be observed from as far as 1000 km away should the conditions be right and when the aurora is bright enough.

The Northern Lights seen over Wisconsin in 2024. | Source: Getty Images

The Northern Lights seen over Wisconsin in 2024. | Source: Getty Images

The prediction center has also provided useful tips for those keen to witness the light event, such as the best-suited environmental conditions for observation.

The Northern Lights above North of Vaasa, western Finland on October 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

The Northern Lights above North of Vaasa, western Finland on October 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Civilians should go outside at night, and move away from city lights, as the moon tends to diminish the apparent brightness of the aurora, but not its actual radiance.

The Northern lights seen over Washington, DC on October 10, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

The Northern lights seen over Washington, DC on October 10, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

The center also urges people to remember that the high latitudes where the aurora occurs are latitudes that don’t get dark in the summer.

A photographer takes pictures of aurora borealis in Rileyville, Virginia on October 10, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

A photographer takes pictures of aurora borealis in Rileyville, Virginia on October 10, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

This means that those looking to combine a summer vacation to the Arctic with the timing of the aurora occurrence will not succeed, as while the aurora may be there, it will only be visible in the dark.

he Northern Lights illuminate the skies in Brandenburg, Lietzen on October 10, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

he Northern Lights illuminate the skies in Brandenburg, Lietzen on October 10, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Additionally, the best time to view the aurora is within an hour or two of midnight, between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time, as this is usually the time when geomagnetic activity levels increase.

The best seasons for observing the aurora are around springtime and fall equinoxes, due to the existence of subtleties in the way solar wind interacts with the Earth’s magnetosphere.

The Northern Lights in Pujalt, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain on October 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

The Northern Lights in Pujalt, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain on October 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

“There is a tendency towards larger geomagnetic storms, and thus better auroras, to occur near the equinoxes,” explains the center.

Continuing, they noted, “However, the number of hours of darkness decreases (increases) rapidly near the spring (fall) equinox so this caveat must be considered for those traveling to see the aurora.” More details on the story will follow shortly.

3 Incredible Stories Shared by Stewardesses from the Business Class Cabin

Stewardesses on an airplane | Source: Midjourney
Stewardesses on an airplane | Source: Midjourney

Have you ever wondered what wild secrets fly above the clouds in business class? Stewardesses are the ultimate keepers of sky-high stories, and their tales range from the heartwarming surprises to jaw-dropping twists that you’d never expect.

In this collection, we’re peeking into the fascinating world of the business class cabin where the drinks flow, the demands are high, and no two flights are ever the same.

So sit back, fasten your seatbelt, and enjoy these three unforgettable stories shared by flight attendants who’ve seen it all from 30,000 feet.

Two smiling flight attendants | Source: Midjourney

Two smiling flight attendants | Source: Midjourney

Millionaire Mocks Poor Woman with 3 Kids on Business Class Flight until Pilot Interrupts Him

From the moment the mother with three little kids boarded, I could tell it was her first time in business class. The way she guided the kids, eyes wide with excitement, reminded me of my own first flight years ago.

But while I was all set to make their experience great, the man in the next seat was far from pleased.

“Are you kidding me?” he scoffed as she took the seat beside him, wrangling her bags and kids with the careful grace that only a mom could manage.

A mom with three kids in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

A mom with three kids in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

“Miss,” he barked at me. “You’re really letting them sit here?”

“Sir, these seats are hers. She has every right to sit here,” I said, offering him my calmest smile, but he just rolled his eyes.

He didn’t let up, not even when she apologized for the trouble.

A smiling flight attendant | Source: Midjourney

A smiling flight attendant | Source: Midjourney

“Oh, trust me, I have a meeting to join on this flight,” he grumbled. “And I’m going to need silence. Absolute silence. These kids won’t be silent, I can tell.”

I watched as the woman settled her kids, motioning for them to stay quiet. They did their best, though the youngest couldn’t help the occasional squeal of excitement when he saw the clouds out of the window.

Still, the businessman acted like they were playing drums in his ears, dramatically sighing every few minutes.

A grumpy business man | Source: Midjourney

A grumpy business man | Source: Midjourney

About an hour into the flight, I brought him his coffee and cookies, trying to smooth things over.

“Thank you, miss,” he said with a dismissive tone, barely looking up. I gave the kids fruit cups, thinking that they would be the quietest snacks for them. I didn’t want the businessman to lash out at them over nothing.

But when his conference call ended, he seemed pleased enough to answer when the mother leaned over to ask about the designs in his notebook.

Fruit cups in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

Fruit cups in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

“Oh, those?” he chuckled. “My company makes fabrics. Real fabrics,” he added, eyeing her clothes in a snooty way that made my stomach twist.

She looked down, fiddling with a bracelet on her wrist, trying to brush off his words.

“Actually,” she said softly, “I own a small boutique in Texas. We make a lot of our own designs. It’s nothing compared to what you do, I’m sure. But it’s something that I’m proud of.”

A woman looking out of an airplane window | Source: Midjourney

A woman looking out of an airplane window | Source: Midjourney

“Oh, I’m sure it is,” he sneered. “But you see, I just closed a million-dollar deal with one of the biggest design firms in the world. International Fashion Week big. I doubt a… boutique can even imagine what that’s like.”

He said the word “boutique” like it was a dirty word, and I could see her cheeks color.

But she didn’t snap back at him. Instead, she just nodded.

“Well, congratulations, sir,” she said simply.

A business man sitting in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

A business man sitting in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

I admired her patience. I was about to check on her when the captain’s voice came over the speaker.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we’re beginning our descent to JFK,” he announced. “I’d also like to thank my beautiful wife, Debbie, and our three kids, who are here with us today. Deb, I couldn’t have done this without you.”

I glanced over at the woman and watched her eyes widen in shock. Her hand flew to her mouth as her cheeks flushed with surprise. She turned to her kids, who were giggling in excitement.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Pexels

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Pexels

“And a special thank you to our passengers in first class. Thank you for making my family’s first business class flight one to remember. She has taken a huge leap of faith today, as it’s my first flight back after a long break. Deb, you’re my rock.”

The entire cabin was silent as the captain emerged from the cockpit. He held a small ring box, grinning ear-to-ear as he knelt before her.

A pilot holding a ring box | Source: Midjourney

A pilot holding a ring box | Source: Midjourney

“Debbie,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “Will you spend forever with me… again? And, don’t worry! My co-pilot is in charge of the plane!”

Passengers clapped, and I caught more than a few teary smiles.

“Yes!” Debbie exclaimed.

As for the businessman? He just sat there, gaping. His smug expression was nowhere in sight. And I couldn’t resist glancing at him, raising my brow. Soon, the flight’s descent was over, and we were almost ready to disembark.

A business man looking out of a window in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

A business man looking out of a window in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

“You know,” Debbie said, turning to the businessman. “Not everyone values money above all else. Some of us just value the people we love. And that? That’s something money can’t buy.”

I watched her gather her children and walk off with her husband, leaving the businessman looking small in a way I doubted he’d ever felt before.

As for me, I couldn’t help but smile. Not all stories end perfectly, but this one?

It was as close as it gets.

A smiling flight attendant | Source: Midjourney

A smiling flight attendant | Source: Midjourney

Woman Leaves Newborn on Business Class Plane Seat, Decides to Find Him 13 Years Later

From the moment I spotted the baby left behind on that business class seat, something inside me knew he’d been abandoned.

Working as a flight attendant, I’d encountered plenty of unusual situations, but never had I found a tiny newborn left alone, bundled in a soft blue blanket with nothing but a note beside him.

A newborn baby in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

A newborn baby in an airplane | Source: Midjourney

I remember how quiet the cabin felt as I read it. The handwriting was shaky, but her words were clear:

I’m a young mother who just cannot provide a good life for him. Please, take him in, cherish him… I’ve started calling him Matthew. But that’s not important… Just make sure that his last name is Harris.

My heart twisted as I held him. It was such a raw and heartbreaking choice for a mother to make.

A flight attendant holding a baby | Source: Midjourney

A flight attendant holding a baby | Source: Midjourney

I didn’t know her story, but I knew in that moment that I wanted to be part of this baby’s life. I didn’t have any children of my own, and when I looked into his tiny, sleeping face, I felt an overwhelming urge to protect him.

My husband, Deon, and I had always dreamed of adopting, and I felt that maybe, somehow, fate had put him in our lives.

The adoption process was long and complex, but we named him Matthew, just as his mother had named him, and we kept Harris as his second name. Deon wanted us to give him our name.

A baby in a crib | Source: Midjourney

A baby in a crib | Source: Midjourney

“Lincy,” he said, “this is our son now. As much as his birth mother wanted Harris to be his last name, she’s not here. We can compromise and give it to him as a second name. But Thomas will be his last name.”

It was also important to us that Matthew grew up knowing about his mother’s note. When he was thirteen, I finally shared that part of his story.

Our boy took it well, nodding thoughtfully as he held the note.

A little boy sitting on a couch | Source: Midjourney

A little boy sitting on a couch | Source: Midjourney

“Did she love me?” he asked, and I could only tell him what I believed was true.

“Yes, my love,” I said. “She loved you enough to make the hardest choice of all.”

Years passed, and Matthew thrived. He excelled in school, made friends easily, and became the center of our world.

But I could always sense a lingering curiosity in him about where he came from, a desire to fill in the missing pieces.

A little boy sitting in a classroom | Source: Midjourney

A little boy sitting in a classroom | Source: Midjourney

Then, one afternoon, my phone rang. I was on holiday, finally choosing to be on the ground instead of in the skies. It was an unknown caller, but when I picked up, a nervous voice stammered.

“Is this Lincy? The flight attendant? I think… I think you adopted my son.”

There was a pause as my heart skipped a beat. For the past thirteen years, this was a call that I had feared.

“Yes, Matthew? He’s my son now.”

A woman talking on the phone | Source: Midjourney

A woman talking on the phone | Source: Midjourney

The woman on the other end introduced herself as Rhonda. She sounded relieved and terrified all at once. She told me her story in halting sentences: how she’d left her father’s house when she got pregnant at nineteen, been rejected by her boyfriend, and how she struggled alone in New York City.

She said she regretted leaving Matthew every single day but had never had the means to find him until now.

“Would you allow me to meet him?” she asked, her voice barely a whisper. “Just once. I just want him to know why I did what I did.”

A woman talking on the phone | Source: Midjourney

A woman talking on the phone | Source: Midjourney

I hesitated but finally agreed. I could tell that this was something Matthew needed, too, even if he didn’t know it yet.

A week later, we arranged a meeting at a quiet café. When Rhonda walked in, she looked nervous and held a small photo album in her hands. Matthew looked her over, curious but guarded.

I didn’t know what to expect, but I could feel my heart in my throat as I watched them. I would have rather sat through turbulence than this.

The interior of a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney

The interior of a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney

“Hi, Matthew,” Rhonda began. “I’m… the woman who left you on that plane. I know it’s unforgivable, but I did it because I thought you’d have a better life without me.”

Matthew sat quietly for a moment.

“Why didn’t you just try to raise me?” he asked.

Rhonda’s eyes filled with tears.

An upset woman sitting in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney

An upset woman sitting in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney

“I was homeless, my father kicked me out. I had no support. I didn’t know how I’d survive, let alone care for you. But it’s something I regret every day.”

The tension eased slightly, and I watched as they spoke.

As we left, Matthew gave her a small nod.

A boy sitting at a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney

A boy sitting at a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney

“Thanks… for coming back, I guess,” he said.

Today, Matthew is twenty-three, and he’s grown into an incredible young man. He’s forgiven Rhonda, even if I’m the only one he calls “Mom.”

I love my job; it’s been rewarding in many ways. But when I applied for a job as a flight attendant, I would never have guessed that I would find my son on a plane.

A smiling young man | Source: Midjourney

A smiling young man | Source: Midjourney

I Served a Rich Couple on a Plane, Next Day My Mom Introduced Me to Her Young Fiancé from the Same Plane

As a flight attendant, I’ve seen my share of surprises, but nothing like this. High above the clouds, I served a sharply dressed man, Edwin, and his stunning date, Isabella, in business class.

He gifted her a necklace in a velvet box, and I remember how her eyes sparkled as he fastened it around her neck. They looked like a picture-perfect couple.

I remember wondering if I would ever find such a love in my life.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

“Thank you for making this flight special,” Edwin said to me with a warm smile, slipping me a generous tip.

The next day, I visited my mom, and she greeted me with a surprise of her own.

“Kristi, meet my fiancé, Edwin!” she exclaimed.

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only | Source: Midjourney

My heart nearly stopped as that same Edwin from the previous day stepped forward, wearing the same charming smile from the flight.

“Nice to meet you, Kristi,” he said, shaking my hand like we were strangers.

I forced a smile, wondering how to tell my mom that her new fiancé was a complete fraud.

A smiling woman | Source: Midjourney

A smiling woman | Source: Midjourney

Over dinner, Edwin shared stories of his “travels,” but every time I pressed for details, he’d brush them off with a laugh.

“The past is the past, ladies,” he’d say, making me even more suspicious. Later, I pulled Mom aside on the balcony, needing to say something.

“Mom, Edwin’s lying to you,” I said. “I saw him yesterday with another woman on my flight. He gave her jewelry, called her his ‘gorgeous Isabella,’ and the works. You’re not the only one he’s seeing.”

Food on a table | Source: Midjourney

Food on a table | Source: Midjourney

My mom’s face hardened.

“Kristi, you’re being ridiculous. Edwin loves me, and maybe you’re just not ready for me to move on after your father.”

“Mom, please,” I said. “He’s scamming you! We know nothing about him.”

But she just turned away, dismissing me.

An upset woman standing on a balcony | Source: Midjourney

An upset woman standing on a balcony | Source: Midjourney

As fate would have it, Isabella tracked me down later that week having lost an earring on the flight, and remembered that I had taken care of her while on board.

I met her at one of the airport’s cafés, where she confirmed my fears.

“He asked me for money for an ’emergency,'” she said. “I was about to help him.”

An airport café | Source: Midjourney

An airport café | Source: Midjourney

We hatched a plan to catch him in the act. The next evening, at an upscale restaurant where Edwin was meeting Isabella, I posed as a waitress.

My heart raced as I approached their table, refilling his wine and “accidentally” spilling some on him.

“Watch it!” he snapped, barely glancing at me.

Spilled wine on a table | Source: Midjourney

Spilled wine on a table | Source: Midjourney

But during the commotion, I’d swapped his phone for a decoy, using the opportunity to go through his messages. Sure enough, his phone was filled with dating profiles and messages to other women.

But Edwin noticed his phone was gone, and he also noticed where I was hiding.

“I know you took it!” he barked, rounding in on me.

A woman holding a phone | Source: Midjourney

A woman holding a phone | Source: Midjourney

“I’m not letting you fool my mother,” I said, staring him down.

But Edwin only smirked.

“Your mother’s an adult. She knows what she wants.”

Days later, as Edwin prepared to marry my mom in a small chapel, I watched from outside, defeated. My mother had refused to listen to me.

The interior of a chapel | Source: Midjourney

The interior of a chapel | Source: Midjourney

But then, one by one, the women he’d deceived arrived, led by Isabella. They stormed the chapel in a fury.

“Scammer!” they echoed as they walked in.

Edwin tried to run but was swarmed by angry women hurling shoes and purses. In the end, my mom couldn’t even look at me as she left in tears. But I knew one thing for sure: Edwin would never scam another woman again.

An upset bride | Source: Midjourney

An upset bride | Source: Midjourney

These stories remind us that what happens mid-flight is rarely just about the journey… it’s about unexpected connections, hidden truths, and moments that change lives.

Next time you’re up in the clouds, just imagine the stories the person next to you might be bringing along.

If you’ve enjoyed this compilation, here’s another one for you |

3 Heart-Wrenching Stories About Little Kids Who Were Abandoned

What would drive a parent to abandon their own child? Journey with us through three gripping stories that unveil the raw emotions and unimaginable choices parents made. From the confines of a plane seat to the sterile walls of a hospital, witness the heart-wrenching decisions and the unyielding hope for redemption.

Life often presents us with impossible choices. In these three stories, we explore how certain difficult circumstances make people abandon their kids.

Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster as we go through the lives of three parents who had to part ways with their children.

I Found a Girl in the Middle of an Empty Road at Night – When I Got Closer, I Went Pale

A girl in a tattered dress | Source: Amomama
A girl in a tattered dress | Source: Amomama

Driving alone on a foggy night, a mother spots a young girl in a tattered dress, silent and familiar. As she pulls closer, she notices that the girl’s haunted eyes hold secrets that might be better left hidden.

It was late, and the night felt thicker than usual. The fog wrapped around the car like a heavy blanket, swallowing up everything beyond the headlights. I squinted ahead, gripping the wheel tighter than usual.

Driving through the fog | Source: Pexels

Driving through the fog | Source: Pexels

“Just get home,” I muttered, rubbing my tired eyes. It had been such a long day at work, and all I wanted was my bed.

I hated this road. I’d always hated it. I usually took the main highway, but tonight, I had thought: Just a quick shortcut. It’ll save me time.

A woman driving through the fog | Source: Midjourney

A woman driving through the fog | Source: Midjourney

Then, something caught my eye. A shadow, right in the middle of the road. I slammed on the brakes, heart pounding, and stared. The figure was barely visible, just an outline in the mist.

“Please just be a tree or a mailbox or something,” I whispered, even though I knew it wasn’t. As I rolled forward slowly, the shadow appeared to be a girl. She was thin, and her white dress seemed to cling to her in tatters.

A girl on a figgy road | Source: Midjourney

A girl on a figgy road | Source: Midjourney

I felt an instinctual chill crawl up my spine. Everything in me screamed to turn around, to get out of there. But something stronger kept me rooted in place.

I rolled down the window a crack, my voice shaky. “Are you okay?”

Slowly, I opened the door and stepped out, flashlight in hand. I aimed it at her face, and the beam caught her features for the first time. I gasped, stumbling back. I knew that face. The pale skin, the wide eyes, the mouth parted slightly in confusion.

A woman stepping out from her car | Source: Midjourney

A woman stepping out from her car | Source: Midjourney

“Emily?” My voice was barely a whisper, but she seemed to hear me. She looked up, her eyes locking onto mine, empty and wide.

“Mommy?” Her voice was soft, barely there.

Shock and relief crashed over me. It was her. My Emily, my daughter who’d been gone for five years. She’d vanished without a trace, no sign of where she’d gone or who might have taken her. The police and search parties had all come up with nothing.

A search party going through the woods | Source: Pexels

A search party going through the woods | Source: Pexels

“Emily, oh my God… it’s really you,” I stammered, taking a step closer. “Where have you been? Are you hurt?”

She blinked, her face blank. “I… don’t know,” she murmured. Her voice sounded small. It was like it hadn’t been used in years.

I swallowed, my mind racing. Trauma, maybe. I had been warned that if we ever found her, she might not remember because kids could block out things that were too painful.

A shy girl looking down | Source: Midjourney

A shy girl looking down | Source: Midjourney

I knelt in front of her, heart racing. “It’s okay, honey. It’s me. It’s Mom. We’re gonna go home, okay?” My hand trembled as I reached out.

I wrapped my coat around her shoulders, feeling her icy skin through the fabric. “Let’s get you out of here,” I said, guiding her to the car. She sat silently in the passenger seat, staring out the window, her expression distant.

A woman hugging her daughter | Source: Midjourney

A woman hugging her daughter | Source: Midjourney

The drive home was quiet, her gaze never leaving the foggy darkness outside. I glanced over, trying to read her face, but there was nothing, just a blank stare, as though she was somewhere else entirely.

“Emily,” I tried gently, “do you remember anything? Anything at all?”

She didn’t look at me. “A room. It was… dark. And… there was someone. I think. I think he brought food, but… I don’t remember his face.”

A sad girl in the backseat of the car | Source: Midjourney

A sad girl in the backseat of the car | Source: Midjourney

My throat tightened. “It’s okay, honey. You’re safe now. We’re going home.”

She didn’t respond; she stared into the fog as we left the dark road behind.

As we pulled into the driveway, I felt a pang of relief. The familiar porch light, the sight of home, everything safe. But as I opened the door and led her inside, a new unease settled over me.

A house at night | Source: Pexels

A house at night | Source: Pexels

Emily sat stiffly on the couch, looking around like she didn’t recognize anything. Her movements were slow, almost robotic.

“Do you… remember this place?” I asked.

She shrugged, her eyes blank. “I think so.”

Her voice was so flat, so empty. I sat beside her, reaching out, but stopped, unsure if she wanted comfort or space.

A woman talking to her mother | Source: Midjourney

A woman talking to her mother | Source: Midjourney

“Mom,” she whispered, her voice barely there, “I’m… cold.”

I wrapped a blanket around her and sat there watching her, unsure of what to do or say.

The days that followed were a blur of quiet tension. Emily barely spoke, answering my questions in monosyllables, her gaze always elsewhere. I only heard her voice when she sang an old lullaby that I used to sing to her as a baby. I knew she couldn’t have remembered that, but I didn’t want to pry either.

A girl covering her face with her hands | Source: Pexels

A girl covering her face with her hands | Source: Pexels

One evening, I found her sitting on the floor, surrounded by old photo albums I’d stored in a closet. She had one open on her lap, her fingers tracing a picture of Mark, her father. He’d passed away when she was just a baby, so young she couldn’t possibly remember him.

“Mom?” she whispered, her brow furrowed. “I know him.”

I felt a strange chill. “Honey, that’s your dad. Remember? I told you about him.”

A sad girl hugging herself | Source: Pexels

A sad girl hugging herself | Source: Pexels

“No,” she said, her voice barely a whisper. “I know him. From… the place.” Her eyes filled with confusion, and she stared at the picture as if trying to make sense of a dream.

My throat went dry. “What place, Emily?”

Her hands trembled, and she shook her head. “I don’t know. I don’t remember… but he was there.”

A concerned woman talking to her scared child | Source: Midjourney

A concerned woman talking to her scared child | Source: Midjourney

My mind raced. Emily couldn’t have known Mark. She was just a baby when he died. But someone who looked like him… my thoughts shifted sharply. Mark’s brother, Jake.

He looked so much like Mark that they could’ve been twins. He’d even stayed with us a few times after Mark’s death. He’d been there when I sang Emily her lullabies. A memory rushed back of Jake standing in the doorway, listening to me sing her to sleep.

Bothers posing for a photo | Source: Midjourney

Bothers posing for a photo | Source: Midjourney

I couldn’t ignore the thought any longer. I had to know the truth.

The next morning, I drove out to the old family cabin, an isolated place nestled deep in the woods on the edge of town. I hadn’t been there since Mark died.

After his passing, the cabin became a hollow shell of memories I couldn’t bear to face. And no one ever had a reason to visit it. The police hadn’t even searched there when Emily disappeared; they’d assumed it was abandoned, unimportant.

A shack in the woods | Source: Pexels

A shack in the woods | Source: Pexels

I parked the car and stepped out, the silence of the forest pressing in around me. The cabin looked just as I remembered, except more rundown. But something was off.

As I moved closer, I saw one of the windows was covered with a piece of heavy cloth. I felt a surge of unease. Why would someone cover the window?

A window covered with a peace of cloth | Source: Pexels

A window covered with a peace of cloth | Source: Pexels

The door creaked as I pushed it open, and stale air hit me in a wave. Dust lay thick over everything except for a narrow trail leading toward a door in the back. My pulse quickened. I followed the trail, my shoes stirring up the dust in the silent cabin.

When I opened the back door, my stomach clenched. It was a small, dim room. And unlike the rest of the cabin, this room was eerily clean. On the floor lay a few scattered toys, faded but well-loved, as though they’d been played with often. A shiver ran through me.

A dim room with a small window | Source: Pexels

A dim room with a small window | Source: Pexels

This was where she’d been.

I backed out of the room, heart pounding, and reached for my phone. Within minutes, the police were on their way.

Hours later, I sat with Emily in the living room as the officers worked at the cabin. She was quiet, her fingers clutching the edge of her blanket. When I took her hand, she looked up at me, her eyes filled with a sadness that broke my heart.

The police searching a cabin in the woods | Source: Midjourney

The police searching a cabin in the woods | Source: Midjourney

“Mommy… I remember now,” she whispered, her voice quivering. “I remember the man.”

I swallowed hard. “Who was it, sweetheart?”

Her voice shook. “It was Uncle Jake. He… he looked like Daddy, but different. He… he would bring me food, but he never spoke. He just sat there, outside the door. He… he used to hum that song.”

A sad girl | Source: Pexels

A sad girl | Source: Pexels

The police confirmed it that evening. They had enough evidence in the cabin to make an arrest. When they found Jake, he confessed, claiming he had taken Emily to “protect” her, that he’d wanted to be the one she depended on.

It was twisted and sick, and knowing he’d been that close to us all those years made my skin crawl.

A sad man covering his face with his hands | Source: Pexels

A sad man covering his face with his hands | Source: Pexels

When they told Emily, she broke down, sobbing, the weight of years of silence finally releasing. I held her close, rocking her as she cried, whispering over and over, “You’re safe now. No one will ever take you away again.”

The days that followed were quiet, but a warmth was beginning to bloom again between us. Emily started to talk more, little by little, and she would hum that old lullaby at night, almost as if testing if it was safe to hear it again.

A woman drawing with her daughter | Source: Pexels

A woman drawing with her daughter | Source: Pexels

One evening, as we sat by the window, she leaned into me, resting her head on my shoulder. I began to hum the lullaby softly, how I used to when she was little. She looked up at me, and for the first time, I saw a spark of peace in her eyes.

“I love you, Mommy,” she whispered.

I held her close, tears slipping down my cheeks. “I love you too, sweetheart. Forever.”

A girl kissing her mother | Source: Freepik

A girl kissing her mother | Source: Freepik