This week began on a sad note. On Sunday, August 16, actress Hayden Panettiere passed away at the age of 36. Many former co-stars have spoken out about her passing, which came a few months after the release of her memoir. In addition, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have announced plans to move back to the U.K., drawing mixed reactions. There have been a few more updates in the political world, and The Blast has exclusives ranging from “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” to a legal expert weighing in on the “completely different” strategy playing out in the Tupac murder trial. Check out the latest news and updates in another edition of The Weekly Blast.
Hayden Panettiere Passed Away At Age 36
Best known for her roles in “Heroes,” “Nashville,” and the “Scream” movie franchise, many fans took to social media to pay tribute to the beloved actress, who was open with her struggles with mental health and addiction.
A doctor once warned her that she could be “dead within five years” if she didn’t get her drinking under control, but she was determined to “leave the world” a better place in final remarks made before her sudden death.
According to the autopsy report, no signs of trauma were found that would have contributed to her death, although 911 dispatch audio said a female was in “cardiac arrest.” The dispatch audio reportedly referenced a possible overdose.
Her mother blamed their estrangement on a “toxic individual,” while actor Jack Coleman called out the “predatory” treatment that she faced from paparazzi. One director who previously worked with the actor also recalled talks about an intervention before her sudden passing.
Questions Have Been Raised About Her Boyfriend, Brian Hickerson
5Hayden Panettiere’s neighbor made some troubling claims about her boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, including repeated calls to 911.
Reports of his money troubles also resurfaced. It is not clear if the two were involved following her death, but one source claimed that he had “inserted himself” into her life. Yet another insider said that they had gotten back together in a romantic relationship before he passed away.
Prince Harry & Meghan Markle To Return To The UK
5Following brutal advice to “disappear professionally” as they faced another major Hollywood flop, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are heading back to the UK with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
One expert claims that the decision has Prince William and Kate Middleton “tearing their heart out,” while others have questioned what the move means for the brothers’ estrangement.
For Meghan Markle, it’s been said that she is dealing with “mixed emotions” regarding the move, which may have been fueled by growing financial concerns.
Ariana Grande Gets Political & More Trump News
5Ariana Grande has asked the White House to stop using her music once again. It’s not the first time that she’s made the request. The singer has never been shy about discussing politics with her fans, and openly supported Kamala Harris during the 2024 Presidential Election.
Meanwhile, current U.S. President Donald Trump is in hot water after he told a little boy that he wouldn’t have jumped in to rescue him after a near-drowning, prompting backlash online.
Trump also threatened “tremendous” consequences for Iran allies and pushed a new crypto bill – the Clarity Act – after his family’s crypto ventures generated more than $1 billion in 2025.
His wife, Melania Trump, is also reportedly about her husband’s allegedly close relationship with his aide, Natalie Harp. The aide’s brother has also spoken out about the “sad” reason she is “infatuated” with the current U.S. President.
The Blast Exclusives: Everything You Missed This Week
5This week, the “Sexiest Data Scientist,” Bianca Stanciu, revealed the unexpected compliment that men secretly yearn for.
Jen Affleck teased a “huge divide” on “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” spin-off.
One Vegas attorney broke down the “completely different” strategy playing out in the Tupac murder trial.
Edwin McCain joined a “Big Time Rush” star for an unexpected Olivia Rodrigo cover.
One popular Vegas influencer turned a childhood magic dream into reality with a brand new show.
See inside the $37,000 “Let’s Marry Harry” plane that took Harry Jowsey to Vegas!