New Year Quiz on AI Bands, Sydney Sweeney, and Demon Hunters

A 2026 New Year quiz challenges readers to see how much they remember about last year’s biggest pop culture moments and scandals, including AI bands, Sydney Sweeney, and demon hunters.

BBC Weather forecasts snow in London for four consecutive days as maps show a red warning

BBC Weather experts are forecasting snow in London for four days in a row, with forecast maps indicating a red warning. Temperatures are expected to be very low, bringing a notably cold start to 2026.

BBC faces new accusations of bias over Gaza coverage and limited reporting on Iran

The BBC is facing renewed criticism over its Middle East coverage, with Alex Gandler of the Israeli embassy in London alleging the broadcaster devotes far more attention to Gaza than to unrest and conflict in Iran. The claims come amid reports of deaths during Iran’s largest protests in three years over worsening economic conditions, and broader questions about mainstream media coverage of the protests. The dispute follows earlier backlash over a BBC Gaza documentary that Ofcom said was “materially misleading” for not disclosing the narrator’s family connection to Hamas, after which the BBC apologised and removed the programme online.

Notable birthdays on Jan. 3 include Florence Pugh and Danica McKellar

Jan. 3 features several notable birthdays, including actor Florence Pugh turning 30 and actor Danica McKellar turning 51.

Jan. 2: West Virginia Coal Mine Explosion Kills 12

On Jan. 2, 2006, a methane gas explosion at a coal mine in Upshur County, West Virginia, killed 12 men.

Famous birthdays on Jan. 2: Paz Vega and Renée Elise Goldsberry

Jan. 2 marks the birthdays of actor Paz Vega, who turns 50, and actor Renée Elise Goldsberry, who turns 55.

Marks & Spencer slippers praised for long-lasting comfort

Shoppers say Marks & Spencer slippers are soft and comfortable, with some reporting they’ve bought the same style for around 10 years.

Lee Waters Says Jo Stevens Is the Most Anti-Devolution Labour Welsh Secretary Since George Thomas

Former Welsh Labour minister and Llanelli MS Lee Waters said on the Senedd Sources podcast that Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens is the most anti-devolution Labour Welsh Secretary since George Thomas, arguing she holds strongly unionist views that clash with Labour policy in Wales. His remarks come amid growing frustration among Welsh Labour MSs over what they see as the UK Labour government bypassing devolved powers, including a Whitehall-run town centre funding scheme using Internal Market Act powers. Waters was among 11 backbenchers who wrote to Keir Starmer calling the approach a “constitutional outrage,” urging respect for Wales’s devolved settlement and further devolution.

Wales forward Aaron Wainwright set to join Leicester

Wales number eight Aaron Wainwright is expected to leave the Dragons at the end of the season and move to Leicester.

Ice and Snow Across the UK in an Early 2026 Cold Spell

The UK is seeing a wintry start to 2026, with ice and snow affecting several areas. Scotland is expected to be hit hardest, and weather warnings remain in place until Sunday.

Maduro Says Venezuela Is Open to Talks With the United States on Drug Trafficking

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro said in an interview on state television that Venezuela is willing to hold talks with the United States on drug trafficking, while sidestepping a question about a reported attack in Venezuela that the U.S. has claimed.

Aaron Wainwright set to leave Welsh rugby for a move to a leading English club

Wales international Aaron Wainwright is expected to quit Welsh rugby and join one of England’s biggest clubs, dealing another setback to the Welsh game.

Mayor Mamdani Targets Negligent Landlords on His First Day in Office

Mayor Zohran Mamdani began his first day in office by announcing housing-focused executive orders aimed at tightening landlord accountability and speeding up new development. He revived the Mayor’s Office to Protect Tenants to prioritize resolving 311 complaints and hazardous conditions, launched the LIFT task force to identify city-owned sites for housing, and created the SPEED task force to cut permitting and procedural delays, both overseen by Deputy Mayor Lila Joseph. Mamdani also said the city will intervene in a bankruptcy case involving Pinnacle Realty, citing thousands of hazardous violations and tenant complaints, and pledged action to keep homes safe, habitable, and affordable while reducing displacement.

Record Snowfall in Alaska Sinks Boats and Raises Avalanche Risk

Juneau, Alaska, is facing record winter weather after about 82 inches of snow in December, far above normal, with eight boats reported sunk in the harbor during the storm. City harbor crews say they are running out of pumps and resources, while the Coast Guard warns heavy snow can destabilize vessels and create environmental hazards. Avalanche danger has also increased along Thane Road, where crews are carrying out hazard-reduction work and keeping the road closed until it is safe.

Blind Items Revealed #45: Jennifer Lawrence Reportedly Supports Auction Jewelry Amid Marriage Rumors

Blind Items Revealed #45 claims Jennifer Lawrence and husband Cooke Maroney have been facing marital strain after he reportedly left his job following a personal blow-up and has struggled to find his next move. Lawrence has recently appeared at major events wearing Sotheby’s-bound jewelry—twice since his departure—prompting speculation that the appearances could be a small income-generating sideline as her recent films are described as underperforming.

Montgomery County Business Owner Hospitalized With Rare Flesh-Eating Bacterial Infection

A Montgomery County business owner remains in the hospital recovering after being diagnosed with a rare flesh-eating bacterial infection.

Two Killed and One Injured in New Year’s Day Triple Shooting in Northeast Philadelphia

Two men were killed and a third person was injured in a triple shooting on New Year’s Day in Northeast Philadelphia.

Allegations of Stalking Involving Former Teen Star Jonathan Brandis

A blind-item account alleges that former teen actor Jonathan Brandis, described as struggling after mistreatment in the industry, became fixated on his first girlfriend after learning she was dating a minor co-star during a film shoot. He reportedly followed the co-star on set, obtained the co-star’s address through payroll, and then stalked both the co-star and the ex-girlfriend, leading to a restraining order. The account claims he threatened to have the co-star blacklisted unless he ended the relationship, and that police later warned Brandis without making an arrest.

Travel disruption expected as ice and snow affect the UK

Travel disruption is expected across the UK as ice and snow spread, with the most severe conditions forecast for Scotland. Weather warnings remain in place there until Sunday.

Blind Item #43: Allegations About a Famous Actor and a Secret Child

A blind-item claim alleges that a foreign-born, permanently A-list actor with one publicly acknowledged child used hush money to make another child’s mother disappear after she sought a paternity test, and later arranged for the child’s adoption. The claim further alleges the actor enlisted a powerful aviation mogul friend to have the mother killed when she resurfaced, while the actor’s acknowledged child’s mother remains alive.

Northeast Philadelphia triple shooting leaves two dead

On New Year’s Day in Northeast Philadelphia, a triple shooting killed two men and left another person injured.

Blind item claims Ilia Malinin is being groomed as a 2026 “golden boy”

“Blind Items Revealed #29” alleges figure skater Ilia Malinin is getting a major PR push heading into the 2026 Olympics, including talk of a possible Vanity Fair cover. It also claims sponsors are wary due to rumored fan drama and allegations about private behavior that could trigger reputational fallout. These are unverified claims, filed under the “internet whisper economy.”

Usman Khawaja criticises “unfair” coverage and racial stereotyping as he retires

Retiring Australia batter Usman Khawaja says media coverage and commentary from some former players treated him unfairly. He also criticised what he described as racial stereotypes while announcing his retirement from international cricket.

Report says Reese Witherspoon may exit “The Morning Show” after current season

A report claims Reese Witherspoon is preparing to leave her role on the streaming drama “The Morning Show” after the current season. It also says she plans a hard-charging awards campaign next year, because nothing says “art” like turning your performance into a full-time lobbying operation.

Manchester City slip behind Arsenal, Guardiola vents

Manchester City have fallen behind Arsenal in the Premier League title race, prompting Pep Guardiola to express frustration and question whether it’s truly a two-team battle. With Arsenal leading, City have little margin for error.

Swiss ski resort bar fire dominates front pages

Friday’s front pages are led by a deadly bar fire in a Swiss ski resort that has reportedly killed dozens, pushing other major stories into the background. When tragedy hits at that scale, the media’s usual circus acts get shoved offstage, as they should.

Rumor mill links Marion Cotillard, Brad Pitt, and “The Morning Show” casting

Speculation continues that Marion Cotillard may appear on “The Morning Show,” alongside revived rumors about one of her children being fathered by Brad Pitt. The claim also suggests Jennifer Aniston is backing Cotillard’s appearance as a jab at Angelina Jolie, because in Celebrity Land, even casting decisions are apparently used as passive-aggressive Post-it notes.

Iran protests intensify amid economic deterioration, clashes reported

Protests across Iran over the deteriorating economy intensified Thursday, with clashes reported between demonstrators and police in several provinces. In Lorestan province, at least three protesters were reported killed and 17 wounded during an attack on a police station, according to the semiofficial Fars News Agency.

Trump administration eases tariffs on Italian pasta brands

The Italian government said the United States has pulled back on duties previously imposed on several Italy-based pasta brands. Nothing screams “serious trade strategy” like yanking tariffs on pasta, the diplomatic equivalent of choosing your next policy with a grocery cart.

Philadelphia area stays chilly through weekend, warmer shift ahead

AccuWeather says cold conditions will persist in the Philadelphia region through the weekend, followed by a change in weather patterns that brings warmer temperatures.

Pope Leo XIV begins 2026 with a call for peace

Pope Leo XIV marked the start of 2026 by urging peace, highlighting countries scarred by conflict and families suffering from violence.

Robert Rodriguez affair rumors resurface

One blind item alleges director Robert Rodriguez had a years-long affair with circus artist and nightclub figure Anya Sapozhnikova while married to producer and actress Elizabeth Avellán, involving heavy partying and drug use in New York City. It also claims Sapozhnikova later inspired a film connected to mental-health struggles, and that the relationship contributed to Rodriguez’s divorce and later tensions involving actress Rose McGowan. (Unverified gossip, in case the “blind item” label did not scream it loudly enough.)

More “maxwellhill” speculation, because the internet cannot quit anything

A piece claims Ghislaine Maxwell, previously linked online to the Reddit account “maxwellhill,” would resume heavy Reddit posting if given internet access in prison. It suggests she may now be posting under a different handle to avoid attention, while noting the old account has not been deleted and that some past comments may still be viewable despite frequent deletions. It also alleges early Reddit figures praised the account’s contributions, and that any current activity is mostly limited to yoga-related threads. (Yes, yoga: the ancient practice of stretching, breathing, and pretending your online footprint does not exist.)

Goo Goo Dolls milestone, “Iris” hits 3 billion Spotify streams

The Goo Goo Dolls’ hit song “Iris” has surpassed 3 billion streams on Spotify. Proof that time is a flat circle, and we are all still standing in the metaphorical rain insisting we do not want the world to see us, while the world very much does.

Wholesome sports anime reportedly draws a disturbing underground fandom

A report says a popular foreign animated sports series, created by women for a female audience and known for a wholesome tone and shirtless male characters, has attracted an unsettling underground fandom. The item alleges a major fan-art platform is allowing disturbing material related to the series to be posted and sold, and urges the platform to take action.

Philadelphia police investigate New Year’s Day triple shooting

Philadelphia police are investigating a triple shooting in Northeast Philadelphia on New Year’s Day that left two people dead.

Vehicle crashes into Cheltenham Township home, ignites fire, driver flees

Officials say a vehicle hit a house at 808 Chelten Hills Dr. in Cheltenham Township around 4 a.m. Thursday, igniting both the car and the front of the home. Fire crews responded quickly; the house was unoccupied due to prior foundation-related safety issues, and the driver fled on foot and has not been found. No firefighter injuries were reported, and the home was boarded up and re-posted as unsafe.

Haiku OS NVIDIA graphics work shows renewed progress

NVIDIA graphics support on the BeOS-inspired, open-source Haiku operating system is reportedly advancing again, driven by work involving NVIDIA’s open kernel modules alongside the NVK driver and Zink-based Vulkan-to-OpenGL translation. A niche triumph, but in a world where basic software support often feels like a luxury, we take our victories where we can get them.

Jared Leto “cult leader” claims, via blind item

Another blind item alleges actor Jared Leto, described as a cult leader, promises celibacy to followers until he finds a “Queen,” then purportedly encourages followers to compete for the role, has sex with multiple women, and later reframes it as a “meditation experience” while continuing the search. These claims are presented as unverified gossip, which is also the only appropriate container for them.

Philadelphia Mummers Parade Suspends String Band Competition Due to High Winds

Organizers of Philadelphia’s Mummers Parade suspended the string band competition after sustained winds around 30 mph and damage during unloading and setup raised safety concerns. Officials said conditions made it unsafe for performers to compete using props, prioritizing participant safety.

Chelsea and manager Enzo Maresca part ways after 18 months

Chelsea have ended their 18-month partnership with manager Enzo Maresca, less than six months after he led the club to Club World Cup success. The split comes after a period in which results and internal momentum reportedly deteriorated, raising questions about how a recent high point turned into a rapid breakdown.

Why Chelsea and Enzo Maresca Parted Ways

Questions are being raised about what went wrong between Chelsea and Enzo Maresca after his departure less than six months after leading the club to Club World Cup success, marking a rapid breakdown in what initially looked like a winning partnership.

ACA health insurance subsidies expire, raising premiums for millions in 2026

Enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits expired at the start of the new year, setting up higher insurance costs in 2026 for millions of people who buy coverage on their own and do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare. Democrats pushed for an extension, some moderate Republicans sought a fix, and President Donald Trump briefly signaled interest before retreating amid conservative opposition, but no agreement was reached before the deadline. Lawmakers may revisit the issue, with a House vote expected in January, though passage is uncertain as health care costs loom over the midterm election year.

Shock in Crans-Montana on New Year’s Day

A fire broke out in the town’s central, lively area, as reported by the BBC’s Silvia Costeloe.

European Space Agency Confirms Another Security Breach After Hackers Claim Major Data Theft

The European Space Agency has confirmed another security incident after a cybercriminal posted on BreachForums claiming to have stolen data, including source code, confidential documents, API tokens, and credentials. The attacker alleges they accessed ESA-linked external servers on December 18 and remained connected for about a week, exfiltrating private Bitbucket repositories, CI/CD pipeline data, Terraform files, and hardcoded credentials. ESA said the incident may have affected only a very small number of external servers used for unclassified engineering and scientific collaboration, and it has launched a forensic security investigation.

Breach Roundup: Clop Linked to Korean Air Vendor Breach

A vendor incident affected Korean Air this week. Separately, a China-linked APT was tied to hijacked software updates, a critical zero-day vulnerability remained unpatched, Condé Nast reported leaked data, La Poste suffered service disruptions, and South Korean police extradited a suspect connected to a malware operation.

Fireworks Spark Major House Fire in Riverview, Florida on New Year’s Day

Fireworks ignited a major house fire early Thursday in Riverview, Florida, prompting multiple 911 calls around 12:49 a.m. on Mile Marsh Drive. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue found the home fully engulfed, with flames threatening a neighboring house.

US announces new strikes on suspected drug-trafficking boats as Coast Guard searches for survivors

The U.S. announced strikes on five suspected drug-trafficking vessels, including a Dec. 30 operation targeting three boats traveling in a convoy along known trafficking routes and a separate New Year’s Eve strike on two more vessels. U.S. Southern Command said people on two of the Dec. 30 boats jumped into the water before the vessels sank, prompting the Coast Guard to launch a search-and-rescue effort and alert other mariners. The strikes come amid scrutiny of earlier operations, and the U.S. says its broader anti-“narco-terrorism” campaign has involved at least 34 strikes and at least 115 deaths.

Chelsea lose Enzo Maresca, because stability is apparently a forbidden art

Chelsea and “long-term planning” continue their iconic long-distance relationship. Enzo Maresca is out with the club sitting fifth in the Premier League, 15 points behind leaders Arsenal—proving once again that at Stamford Bridge the manager is less a strategist and more a seasonal decoration.

Russia touts the PAK DA stealth bomber, big promises, tiny public progress

Russia is promoting the PAK DA as a next-generation, stealth-focused strategic bomber meant to replace aging Tu-95s and complement modernized Tu-160Ms. The pitch is a long-endurance flying-wing “missile truck” built for lower detectability as air defenses improve. The catch: key specifications are unconfirmed, and visible prototype progress appears limited—which is one way to keep a stealth project “undetectable.”

Philadelphia gets an Arctic front, snow squalls, then a brighter afternoon

AccuWeather says an Arctic front arrives in the Philadelphia region today, bringing early-morning snow squalls followed by a brighter afternoon. Wind chills stay in the teens, because winter enjoys doing the most.

RSPB celebrates 25 years of UK conservation wins, while warning the threats are still piling up

The RSPB is marking the new year by highlighting 25 years of conservation gains across the UK, including woodland, peatland, wetland, and saltmarsh restoration. It points to successes like Ramsey Island seabird recovery after rat eradication, upland restoration at Geltsdale in the Pennines, Caledonian woodland expansion at Abernethy, and wetland creation at Frampton Marsh. The charity also notes sharp increases in bittern numbers and the return of common cranes, while warning that climate change, intensive agriculture, development, habitat loss, and government inaction still threaten nature.

New Year’s resolutions feel tougher, because everyone is exhausted and the calendar is not a therapist

Researchers point to worsening mental wellbeing, ongoing uncertainty, and “change fatigue” making fresh starts feel unrealistic and emotionally draining. The “fresh start effect” can help, but stress and lack of control push people toward risk-focused thinking. Work exploring “possibility thinking” suggests lasting change needs opportunity, motivation, and ability to act reinforcing each other, with goals shaped by real constraints like time, money, and caregiving. More workable approaches include small adjustments instead of dramatic reinvention, and sharing responsibility across families, workplaces, or communities.

Climate resolutions that fail versus ones that stick, spoiler: martyrdom is not a strategy

A guide to climate New Year’s resolutions argues durable change comes from realistic, positive habits rather than total self-denial. “Stickier” goals include buying second-hand clothes regularly, building eco-friendly plans into social time, adding more plant-based meals by focusing on foods you actually like, and writing to your MP to push for policy change. Resolutions likely to fail include swearing off flying entirely, overhauling every lifestyle choice at once, and trying to convert sceptical friends or family—alternatives include taking trains where possible and leading by example.

Ultimate Wales road trip mapped with 21 stops for 2026

A UK travel guide has laid out an “ultimate Wales road trip” of about 200 miles, from Cardiff to Caerphilly, with 21 stops across north and south Wales. Highlights include the Gower Peninsula, Tenby, St Davids, Portmeirion, Eryri (Snowdonia) and Yr Wyddfa, Zip World at Penrhyn Quarry, Caernarfon and Conwy castles, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Hay-on-Wye, and Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) with Pen y Fan, plus practical notes on access, weather, and possible closures.

Deadly New Year’s Eve explosion at bar in Crans-Montana

Police say several people were killed and others injured in an explosion at a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve.

Dry January tips for sticking with a month off alcohol

A set of Dry January suggestions aims to help people complete four weeks without alcohol, drawing on the experience of a social drinker who goes teetotal for three months each year.

Pick one realistic habit change to simplify life and cut impact

Advice urges people to choose a single manageable habit, such as spending less, eating healthier, or decluttering, to simplify routines, reduce costs, and lower climate impact.

Roberto Carlos recovering after preventative medical procedure

Brazil and Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos says he is in hospital and recovering well after what he described as a preventative medical procedure.

Row over demolition of Ruthin’s former Rhos Street School for affordable homes

A local campaigner has criticised Denbighshire councillors after they approved plans to demolish Ruthin’s former Victorian Rhos Street School to build 20 affordable homes. The committee unanimously backed the housing association, citing the building’s unlisted status, long-term dereliction, and unsuccessful marketing. Supporters pointed to housing need and suggested a commemorative plaque.

January 1 celebrity birthdays

Musician Winter and actor Angourie Rice are among those turning 25 on January 1, alongside other notable birthdays on the date.

On this date, the first Tournament of Roses parade

On Jan. 1, 1890, the first Tournament of Roses parade was held in Pasadena, California.

MyLondon highlights 2025 stories that helped ordinary Londoners

As 2026 begins, MyLondon is reflecting on 12 reports from 2025 that it says made a positive difference in the lives of ordinary people across the city.

Women’s Super League transfer window opens with focus on potential moves

With the January transfer window open in the Women’s Super League, attention is on possible club switches and out-of-contract players who could be available.

World welcomes 2026 with fireworks, light shows, and heightened security

Cities including Sydney, Paris, and New York City marked the start of 2026 with large public celebrations, while some places celebrated more quietly. In Japan, temple bells rang at midnight, and some people climbed mountains to watch the first sunrise of the year.

Todd Murphy expects England to target him in final Ashes Test

Australia spinner Todd Murphy says he is ready for England to go after him as a main target in the final Ashes Test in Sydney.

EU carbon border tax begins, exporters face CO2-linked costs

The EU’s carbon border tax takes effect on 1 January 2026, requiring steel and aluminium exporters to pay for the CO2 emissions tied to their production. Critics argue it is protectionist and warn it could harm trade and fuel disputes.

Labour confirms major British passport redesign as ministers welcome a "new era"

A redesigned UK passport has come into effect, marking the first full overhaul in five years. The cover now features King Charles’s insignia, and the Home Office says the document includes upgraded anti-forgery security features such as holographic and translucent elements. Around 300 of the new passports are already in circulation, with a wider rollout planned as existing stock is replaced. Interior pages highlight UNESCO-linked landscapes across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while current passports remain valid until their expiry date.

Tuberville criticizes Mamdani for using the Quran at his swearing-in

Sen. Tommy Tuberville of Alabama criticized incoming New York mayor Zohran Mamdani for choosing to be sworn in with the Quran. In a post on X, Tuberville wrote, “The enemy is inside the gates,” and shared a screenshot referencing coverage of Mamdani’s decision.

Versatile velvet coat suitable for evenings out or casual wear with jeans

A simple, flattering velvet coat designed to work for a dressy evening out or styled casually with jeans.

2026 Mummers Parade: Key Information

Philadelphia will ring in the New Year with the 2026 Mummers Parade, celebrating its 125th year. The long-running holiday tradition was recently named the best parade in the nation and is set to begin at 9.

Trump pauses plans to deploy the National Guard in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Portland

President Donald Trump said he is, for now, ending his push to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, Oregon, after legal challenges stalled the effort.

Man Charged With Fatally Shooting His Brother After an Argument in Philadelphia’s Eastwick Neighborhood

Police say two brothers argued over money in Philadelphia’s Eastwick neighborhood on Wednesday night, and the dispute ended when one brother allegedly shot the other, killing him.

Philadelphia Holds Its First Free New Year’s Eve Concert and Fireworks on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Philadelphia hosted its first-ever free New Year’s Eve concert and fireworks show on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, drawing hundreds of people Wednesday night.

Mummers to Hold 125th New Year’s Day Parade in Philadelphia

Crowds are expected to line Broad Street in Philadelphia Thursday morning for the 125th Mummers Parade, continuing the city’s long-running New Year’s Day tradition.

American Heart Association Review Reopens Debate Over Whether Light Drinking Benefits Heart Health

The American Heart Association has sparked renewed controversy with a scientific review in Circulation suggesting that light alcohol consumption—about one to two drinks a day—poses no added risk for coronary disease, stroke, sudden death, and possibly heart failure, and may even lower risk. Public health groups and many physicians dispute the conclusion, citing recent research linking even modest drinking to cardiovascular harm and cancer risk, and noting conflicts with CDC guidance and the association’s own messaging that prefers limited or no alcohol. Critics also accuse the review of selectively using evidence and raise concerns about an author’s past ties to the alcohol industry, while the association says the paper was not intended as clinical guidance and its patient advice has not changed.

AccuWeather reports continued cold weather to start 2026 in the Philadelphia area

AccuWeather says the Philadelphia region will begin 2026 with a continued cold pattern, with winds strengthening again on New Year’s Day and making conditions feel even colder.

Prominent California Farmer Pleads Not Guilty to Murder Charge in Arizona Shooting of Estranged Wife

A prominent California farmer has pleaded not guilty to a murder charge stemming from the fatal shooting of his estranged wife at her home in Arizona.

Mt Baldy fall victim identified

Authorities identified the teen who died after falling about 500 feet from a trail on California’s Mt Baldy as 19-year-old Marcus Alexander Muench Casanova. His family described him as an avid sailor and outdoorsman.

UC Berkeley study, how brains “read the room”

UC Berkeley researchers say differences in how people interpret situations may come from how the brain combines facial expressions with surrounding context. Many people lean on the clearest cue—face when the background is fuzzy, context when the face is unclear—while others average cues more evenly, a simpler strategy that could be less demanding or tied to cognitive deficits.

Medieval cemetery mystery, evidence points to women’s religious community

Researchers say there is growing evidence that women buried in a medieval cemetery may have belonged to an early female religious community, potentially resolving a long-running mystery about why they were buried there.

Anthony Joshua released from hospital after Nigeria crash

Anthony Joshua has been released from hospital following a car crash in Nigeria. Two of the former world champion’s closest friends were killed in the accident on Monday.

The Traitors casts a detective and crime novelist

The new season of The Traitors will include a detective and a crime novelist among the contestants, along with a barrister, a nursery school teacher, and a cyber security expert—all heading into the show’s castle to politely smile while plotting each other’s downfall.

Russia looks toward 2026 as Ukraine war nears year four

Steve Rosenberg reports on conversations across Russia about what people want and expect in 2026, with the war in Ukraine approaching its fourth year—a grim milestone for a conflict that has warped everyday hopes into survival math.

Trump says National Guard leaving Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland

President Donald Trump said the National Guard will leave Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, Oregon, while suggesting deployments could resume in the future—because nothing says “stability” like a policy with a built-in trapdoor.

UK welcomes 2026 with fireworks and New Year events

Britons across the UK rang in 2026 with New Year celebrations and fireworks, including major displays in London near the London Eye and events like Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, with coverage highlighting scenes from around the country.

Philadelphia police, man accused of killing brother after money argument

Philadelphia police say a man shot and killed his brother Wednesday evening at the Penrose Plaza Shopping Center in the Eastwick neighborhood after the two argued over money. Officers already on site heard gunfire, took the suspected shooter into custody, and the victim later died at a nearby hospital.

East Bay pinball spot combines framing and games

The Flipper Room is bringing classic pinball to the East Bay, pairing custom framing with a space where visitors can hang out and play. Yes, a business model built on nostalgia and controlled chaos—arguably the most honest thing in retail.

England pilot offers home vaccinations for children in low-income families

Children from low-income families will be offered home vaccinations under a pilot scheme in parts of England, part of a government plan to prioritise children’s health—which is refreshingly practical in a world that usually prefers press releases to outcomes.

Energy bills tick up for millions as temperatures drop

As temperatures fall, millions of households in England, Wales, and Scotland face a small increase in energy bills at the start of the new year, a seasonal tradition almost as reliable as cold weather itself—except this one is optional if you happen to own a private island.

Scotland scraps “not proven” verdict after decades-long campaign

A family said they campaigned for 33 years to end Scotland’s centuries-old “not proven” verdict following their daughter’s murder. After longstanding controversy over its use in Scottish criminal trials, the verdict has now been scrapped.

Israeli Parliament Rejects Bill to Annex Beitar Illit

Israel’s parliament voted on Wednesday against a proposal to annex Beitar Illit, a large Israeli settlement in the West Bank. The vote came as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was visiting the United States.

Nigel Farage criticises the European Court of Human Rights after judges question the UK ban on Shamima Begum

Nigel Farage has attacked the European Court of Human Rights after Strasbourg judges asked the UK government to respond to Shamima Begum’s case, including whether officials should have considered if she was a trafficking victim before stripping her citizenship. Begum left the UK for Islamic State-held Syria at 15, was deprived of British citizenship in 2019 on national security grounds, and remains in a Syrian camp. Her lawyers argue she was groomed and exploited as a child, while the Home Office says it will robustly defend the decision to keep her out of the UK.

Kevin O’Leary Says Tariff Policy Will Likely Be Adjusted Soon

Businessman and “Shark Tank” judge Kevin O’Leary said President Trump is likely to make changes to his tariff policy in the new year, arguing it “needs to be fine-tuned.” Speaking on NewsNation’s “On Balance,” he pointed to tariffs affecting Canada and India, which include levies of 35% and 50%, respectively.

Rep. Mike Lawler says Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is now the face of the Democratic Party

Rep. Mike Lawler said New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has become the public face of the Democratic Party and argued that Mamdani’s rise will pressure other Democrats to adopt more left-leaning positions, pointing to previous shifts associated with figures like Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Blind Items Revealed #7: Allegations About Zac Brown

In “Blind Items Revealed #7,” Zac Brown is the subject of online speculation that he has recently embraced Satanism. Some point to his latest concert as fueling the rumors and note there has been little effort to dispel them.

Newly released Epstein jail surveillance videos raise questions about prison camera footage

A newly released set of surveillance videos from New York City’s Metropolitan Correctional Center is prompting fresh scrutiny of the camera system at the facility where Jeffrey Epstein died in 2019. The footage was included in a larger Department of Justice release on Dec. 23 under the congressionally mandated Epstein Files Transparency Act, and it appears to complicate the official account and conflict with earlier statements about the prison’s surveillance setup.

Action News Reviews Community Events from 2025

Action News highlights the community events that brought neighbors together throughout 2025, featuring daily coverage of local gatherings and activities.

Products That Can Help You Stick to Your New Year’s Resolutions

Nearly 80% of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions, but a set of goal-supporting products aims to help you stay consistent and finish the year among the 20% who follow through.

Philadelphia families celebrate the New Year early at the Please Touch Museum

At the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, more than 3,000 children and families attended the annual daytime “Countdown to New Year’s” event, celebrating the start of 2026 with two early countdowns at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., plus dancing and activities throughout the museum. Organizers said the event offers a safe, family-friendly way to celebrate, and some parents, like Cherelle Moore, used it to mark milestones such as her son Qadir’s second birthday.

New SNAP Purchase Restrictions Take Effect Thursday in Five States

Starting Thursday, SNAP recipients in five states will face new limits on what they can buy with benefits. Additional states are set to roll out similar rules, with at least 18 states planning to implement new restrictions beginning in 2026.