dr hyfr67uje dhrt

MIAMI CONDO COLLAPSE

Shock & Heartbreak

Tamar Braxton Reality TV Almost Only in Destroyed Me

R e n é e ’s N e w Romance Wit h Master Mechanic’s Ant Anstead!

July 12, 2021

Britney Spears

Fighting for Her Future ‘I JUST WANT MY LIFE BACK’

The singer pleads to end her ‘abusive’ 13-year conservatorship.

Inside her life now, her family’s turmoil—and what happens next

People Food Awards Logo is a registered trademark of TI Gotham Inc. and is used under license.

JUST AS MUCH I S SA I D O N T H E PL AT ES AS OVER THEM.

NEW KERRYGOLD IRISH BUT TER WITH OLIVE OIL MADE WITH MILK FROM GRASS-FED COWS T H AT G R A Z E O N T H E LUS H PA ST U RES O F I RE L A N D.

chatter

July 12, 2021

‘It’s nice to see him in the suits and the boas and all this stuff that I did back in the ’90s’ —LENNY KRAVITZ, on Harry Styles (inset) taking some of his style cues, on People (the TV Show!)

‘They just have kept growing.

Many, many sizes.

And my back has been really suffering from it’ —SALMA HAYEK, on her breasts getting bigger as she’s gained weight and gone through menopause, on Red Table Talk

‘He wanted to know “spoiler alert” before we read lines together. Can you believe that?’

(KRAVITZ) STEPHEN LOVEKIN/SHUTTERSTOCK; (HAYEK) JOHN FARR/SCHNEIDER-PRESS/SIPA/SHUTTERSTOCK; (STYLES) KEVIN MAZUR/GETTY IMAGES; (DIESEL) ANDREW LIPOVSKY/NBC/GETTY IMAGES; (JOHANSSON) AXELLE/BAUER-GRIFFIN/FILMMAGIC; (GRAHAM) GREGORY PACE/SHUTTERSTOCK; (NELSON) RICH FURY/GETTY IMAGES

—SCARLETT JOHANSSON, on husband Colin Jost trying to avoid Black Widow spoilers, on SiriusXM’s The Jess Cagle Podcast with Julia Cunningham

‘It’s been over a year now, and I’m not sure I can remember “Whiskey River” ’ ‘I’m dying to do a musical. Yes, I would!’

—VIN DIESEL,

on whether he’d do a Fast & Furious musical, on The Kelly Clarkson Show

—WILLIE NELSON, joking about forgetting his music while not performing during the pandemic, on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

‘It’s hot out there and so are you’ —ASHLEY GRAHAM, encouraging her followers to wear swimsuits and tank tops regardless of how they feel about their bodies, on Instagram

1

2

Netflix introduces a wild way to find love The Masked Singer crosses with Love Is Blind in the streamer’s new dating show Sexy Beasts, where hopefuls meet and mingle covered in makeup and prosthetics.

Me-ow!

The s w i l l pt a r s their ut spin own Olym on cove pics rage

1

Kevin Hart and Snoop Dogg get in the rings

Matthew Perry denied Sarah Paulson a kiss

The actress said the Friends star dodged her at a make-out party years ago. “Matthew Perry pulled my name out of the hat and then promptly left the room,” she told Jimmy Kimmel.

4

Avril Lavigne finally finds her skater boy Almost 20 years after releasing “Sk8er Boi,” Lavigne enlisted a boarder who was good enough for her TikTok debut, a re-creation of her music video with a cameo from Tony Hawk.

2

July 12, 2021

inger s e h T ’t say n d i d ya ‘See oy!’ , b later time this

5

Samuel L. Jackson finally nabs an Oscar

Hold on to your butts! After nearly five decades and just one Academy Award nomination (for Pulp Fiction), Jackson will receive an honorary Oscar next year.

(OLYMPIC RINGS) NBC; (HART) ANNETTE RIEDL/PICTURE ALLIANCE/GETTY IMAGES; (SNOOP DOGG) TRAE PATTON/NBCU PHOTO BANK/GETTY IMAGES; (SEXY BEASTS) NETFLIX; (LIPS) GETTY IMAGES; (OSCARS STATUETTE) ©A.M.P.A.S.®; (JACKSON) JON KOPALOFF/ FILMMAGIC; (PAULSON) GREGG DEGUIRE/WIREIMAGE; (PERRY) CHARLES SYKES/BRAVO/NBCU PHOTO BANK/GETTY IMAGES

NBC has tapped the actor and the rapper to recap the upcoming Summer Games for Olympic Highlights on Peacock. Comedian Amber Ruffin will also offer commentary, straight from Tokyo.

3

July 12, 2021

Vo l . 9 6 / N o . 2

38

On the Cover

Fans rallied (below) to support Britney Spears after she asked for an end to her conservatorship. Inside what led her to speak out in court—and what happens next.

38

Britney Spears

50

Tamar Braxton

17

Renée Zellweger & Ant Anstead

46

Miami Condo Collapse

This Week 17

Scoop

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: MATT WINKELMEYER/GETTY IMAGES; JENNIFER CAUSEY; NOLWEN CIFUENTES

John Mulaney and Olivia Munn’s relationship heats up, Hollywood’s latest baby boom and more celebrity news

46

Miami Condo Collapse

Rescuers, survivors and victims’ loved ones search for answers

57

Sam & Kristie Mewis The star soccer sisters are sharing an Olympic dream come true

58

Mary J. Blige

The R&B queen talks about surviving trauma, healing from heartbreak and finding success

83 Summer

Sandal Trends

The season’s cutest and most comfortable styles

50 Tamar Braxton

Reality TV pushed her to the brink, but the singer is finally finding peace.

Also in This Issue 1 6 17 27 28

31 63 81 83 85 88

CHATTER STAR TRACKS SCOOP PASSAGES STORIES TO MAKE YOU SMILE PEOPLE PICKS FOOD PETS STYLE PUZZLER ONE LAST THING

63 Best Food Products of the Year

Add them to your grocery list.

ON THE COVER (Britney Spears) Photograph by Todd Williamson/Getty/ Images. Insets,from top left: Nolwen Cifuentes; Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images; Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images.

(Tamar Braxton) Photograph by Nolwen Cifuentes, Hair: Kim Kimble/Kim Kimble Haircare; Makeup: Terrell Mullin/Armani Beauty; Stylist: Ashley Sean Thomas.

Dress: Retrofete. Insets, from top left: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images; Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images; Todd Williamson/Getty/Images July 12, 2021

5

StarTracks

INSIDE THE BET AWARDS

June 27, Los Angeles

Cardi B surprised the audience, revealing that she is expecting baby No. 2 when she bared her growing bump in a sparkling Dolce & Gabbana bodysuit during a performance with husband Offset (inset, second from right, with his fellow Migos members Quavo, left, and Takeoff). The pair share daughter Kulture, who turns 3 on July 10.

When accepting her BET Lifetime Achievement Award, Queen Latifah ended her speech with a shout-out to her family: “Eboni, my love. Rebel, my love.

Peace—happy Pride!”

Lil Nas X took the stage for a steamy performance of his hit “Montero (Call Me

By Your Name),” which he closed out by sharing a kiss with one of his backup dancers.

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: BENNETT RAGLIN/GETTY IMAGES(2); JOHNNY NUNEZ/GETTY IMAGES; BENNETT RAGLIN/GETTY IMAGES; KEVIN WINTER/GETTY IMAGES; AMY SUSSMAN/FILMMAGIC; JOHNNY NUNEZ/GETTY IMAGES

Zendaya, with rapper Lil’ Kim (left), wore a version of the Versace dress Beyoncé rocked for her 2003 performance of “Crazy in Love” (inset).

2003 Megan Thee Stallion, with rapper boyfriend Pardison Fontaine, wore a Custom Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture dress for the event, where she scored four awards, including Best Female Hip-Hop Artist.

July 12, 2021

7

StarTracks

MADONNA’S PRIDE SURPRISE

New York City, June 24 Madonna rocked blue locks and a racy top (censored here) when she popped in to perform at the Pride x Boom event at the Boom Boom Room.

LET THE (TOKYO) GAMES BEGIN!

St. Louis, June 27

At the 2021 U.S. Gymnastics Olympic Trials, reigning world and Olympic champion Simone Biles snagged a spot on the U.S. Olympic gymnastics team, along with (inset, from left) Jade Carey, Sunisa Lee, Jordan Chiles, MyKayla Skinner and Grace McCallum.

A WORK OF ART

Los Angeles, June 27 Lizzo wore a top with her face pinned over the Mona Lisa when she stepped out for dinner at hot spot Catch.

A FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD VATICAN VISIT

Vatican City, June 23

During his weekly papal audience, Pope Francis met with Mattia Villardita, a resident of Northern Italy who dresses up as Spider-Man to visit sick children in hospitals.

8

July 12, 2021

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: MATTEO PRANDONI/BFA; JAMIE SQUIRE/GETTY IMAGES(2); NEIL RASMUS/BFA; CARLOSMAIDANAPHOTOGRAPHY/MEGA; TAYLOR HILL/GETTY IMAGES; BACKGRID; VATICAN MEDIA/IPA/ZUMA PRESS

POUNDING THE PAVEMENT Los Angeles, June 26 Colin Farrell ditched his shirt and flaunted his toned torso during a run in the sun.

SHOWING THEIR PRIDE

Water Mill, N.Y., June 24 Actress Lea Michele (left) and former Bachelorette Tayshia Adams attended the Alice + Olivia Pride Prom at the Parrish Art Museum in the Hamptons.

THE BOSS IS BACK

New York City, June 26 Bruce Springsteen and his wife, Patti Scialfa, took a bow after the reopening of Springsteen on Broadway, the first full-capacity Broadway performance since March 2020.

July 12, 2021

9

Loving every box but the litter box?

StarTracks

STARS ON-SET

©2021 Mars or Affiliates.

English actress Sarah Lancashire channeled Julia Child (inset) while shooting the HBO series Julia in Boston—near the celebrity chef’s former Cambridge, Mass., home—on June 23.

Kate Hudson looked glam on the Spetses, Greece, set of Knives Out 2 on June 28.

The actress will appear in the whodunit sequel alongside Dave Bautista, Kathryn Hahn, Janelle Monáe, Edward Norton and Leslie Odom Jr.

FROM TOP: JOSE PEREZ/SPLASH NEWS; BACKGRID; (INSET) LEE LOCKWOOD/GETTY IMAGES; SPLASH NEWS

IAMS Urinary Tract HealthTM helps support your cat’s urinary system health to keep them at their uncooperative best.

Rachel Brosnahan bundled up to film a snowy scene for season 4 of Amazon’s The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel outside of Carnegie Hall in New York City on June 27.

FOUR SIGNS YOUR CAT IS AT THEIR UNCOOPERATIVE BEST

©2021 Mars or Affiliates.

Find out more at IAMS.COM

A new weekly podcast!

You’re obsessed with the ’90s. We get it.

We’re here to help.

PEOPLE is going back to the best decade ever with exclusive celebrity interviews and deep dives into cultural touchstones (and one-hit wonders). Join in as we revisit the moments that were pop culture gold.

HOSTED BY

SNAP TO LISTEN

Launch Sponsor ©2021 Ecco Domani USA, Healdsburg, CA. All rights reserved.

PEOPLE’s Deputy West Coast Editor

PEOPLE’s Style and Beauty Director

JASON SHEELER

ANDREA LAVINTHAL

StarTracks

FAMOUS FAMILIES

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: MONICA SCHIPPER/GETTY IMAGES; DENISE TRUSCELLO/GETTY IMAGES; STEVE YU; TAMI JILL

On June 22 Alec and Hilaria Baldwin attended the New York City premiere of The Boss Baby: Family Business with their six children, from left: Maria, 3 months, Rafael, 6, Eduardo, 9 months, Leonardo, 4, Romeo, 3, and Carmen, 7.

A MODEL’S BABY JOY

In April Karolína Kurková welcomed her third child with husband Archie Drury, a daughter named LunaGrace.

“It’s been super beautiful, super special, hard and emotional,” says the 37-year-old model, who is already mom to sons Noah Lee, 5, and Tobin Jack, 11.

“Having a girl, it’s a different energy!”

Paris Hilton, dad Rick Hilton, sister Nicky Hilton Rothschild and mom Kathy Hilton attended the opening of Resorts World Las Vegas on June 24.

BABY EXCLUSIVES

A WRESTLING DUO’S NEW FAMILY OF 3

Professional wrestlers Brandi and Cody Rhodes welcomed their first child together, daughter Liberty Iris Runnels, on June 18 in Atlanta.

“We are so in love with this tiny angel, we can hardly describe it,” the couple said in a statement. “Grateful is an understatement.”

July 12, 2021

13

9:05 pm 10:30 pm 11:16 pm 12:14 am 6:37 am 7:45 am

Each new day comes with a new set of ups and downs. That’s why MyLifeTM offers a personalized mindfulness boost, any time of day.

START YOUR MINDFULNESS JOURNEY AT MYLIFE. DOWNLOAD FOR FREE.

July 12, 2021

A L L T H E H O L LY W O O D NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Renée Zellweger & Ant Anstead

Their Surprising New Romance

Ant Anstead just finalized his divorce

from Flip or Flop star Christina Haack, and the British Wheeler Dealers and Master Mechanic star, 42, already has a budding new romance with two-time Academy Award winner Renée Zellweger, 52. The pair first met in early June when the actress filmed with Anstead for his

upcoming discovery+ series Celebrity IOU: Joyride. “Sometimes two people just meet and click, and the Unlikely Pair timing is right,” an entertain“She likes men ment source says. “Renée is who have a lot creative . . . and often goes for going on and can be complicated,” guys who think out of the box. says a film source She’s smart, thoughtful of Zellweger and

Anstead (inset, on Wheeler Dealers).

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: GARETH CATTERMOLE/GETTY IMAGES; ALLEN BEREZOVSKY/GETTY IMAGES; DISCOVERY

17

Scoop

RENÉE’S PAST LOVES

Jim Carrey

Jack White

After filming the 2000 film Me, Myself & Irene together, the couple dated for a year.

She dated the White Stripes rocker for more than a year after they met in 2002.

Kenny Chesney

Bradley Cooper

Zellweger wed the country star in 2005, but the marriage was annulled after four months.

The actress began seeing her Case 39 costar in 2009, and they split two years later.

insider says, “fits into her current vision of life.” Will that be enough to take it past summer-fling status?

Time will tell. “Ant has been hurting, even publicly, and she may be a rebound for him,” the source says.

“But he knows she is a solid and decent person.”

—With reporting by Linda Marx

John Mulaney & Olivia Munn Go Public!

It’s still early days for John Mulaney and Olivia Munn’s relationship, but the new romance appears to be going strong. The pair were recently spotted on a casual outdoor lunch date in L.A., looking completely enthralled. “They were having a great time, laughing and talking,” an insider says. “They were really enjoying each other’s company.” The couple first connected socially several years ago and remained friendly. In December, after Mulaney, 38, entered rehab following an addiction relapse, Munn, 41, showed her support for the comedian, tweeting, “Sending SO MUCH love and support to John Mulaney.” The former SNL writer, whose split from ex-wife Anna Laid-Back Marie Tendler was announced on May 10, is currently Lunch Date playing a string of sold-out comedy shows.

— E M I LY S T R O H M w i t h E l i z a b e t h L e o n a r d

18

July 12, 2021

Mulaney and Munn at Rick’s Drive In & Out in Los Angeles on June 26.

(HAACK) NOEL VASQUEZ/GETTY IMAGES; (PAST LOVES) CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DAN MACMEDAN/GETTY IMAGES; MATT BARON/ SHUTTERSTOCK; CHRIS DELMAS/AFP/GETTY IMAGES; BRAD BARKET/GETTY IMAGES; BOTTOM RIGHT: MICHAEL SIMON

and always looking to expand her horizons A-List Actress and nurture those Zellweger with (from left) around her.” fellow Oscar winners Marlee Although the glamorMatlin, Reese Witherspoon ous screen queen and and Laura Dern, at the Academy Awards in April. the jokester car expert might seem an odd match, a brating their son’s first birthday, Hollywood movie insider says that’s part of the attraction: “Renée is quirky Haack suddenly announced the marriage was over. “It really hit me hard,” and always interested in men she he told People last December. “The doesn’t understand. She picks their impact on me, my sleep, my diet, my brains and learns new things. She stress, it showed.” Anstead enrolled finds happiness with people she finds in a five-week “Breakup Recovery” to be different, thoughtful and indecourse, which he credits for getting pendent thinkers like she is.” him out of “a very dark place.”

The pairing follows For now, he and Zellweger Anstead’s painful split from are keeping their new conHaack, his wife of nearly nection on the down low. two years. After “Both of them are private exchanging vows at and dislike public scrutheir Newport tiny, so they have that in Beach, Calif., home common,” the entertainin December 2018, ment source says, adding, Anstead and the “He’s a creative guy HGTV star welcomed Healing After with lots of interson Hudson the followHeartbreak ests, and she likes ing fall. (Anstead, who Following his to write and proshares custody of Hudsplit from Christina Haack duce, so they have son with Haack, is also (inset), “I things to talk about dad to daughter Amelie, reached a turning when together.”

17, and son Archie, 14, point,” Anstead told People in The budding relafrom his first marriage.)

December. tionship, the But just days after cele-

SKIN

IC

PROTECTION

LY T E ST E

4x

AL

APIDDRY TR F F O

RANCE FRE G E RA

D

“Now I use bladder protection that cares for my skin too”.

DE

R M ATO L

OG

S

New Always Discreet for Sensitive Skin Up to 100% protection Made without fragrances and parabens Find liners and pads at

©2021 P&G

Scoop

HEART MONITOR

Khloé Kardashian & Tr i s t a n T h o m p s o n

Happy Anniversary!

Nicole Kidman & Keith Urban

The Oscar winner, 54, and the country star, 53, marked 15 years of marriage on June 25. “My life started when you said ‘I do,’ ” Urban, who has two kids with Kidman, wrote on Instagram.

Red Carpet Debut

Adrien Brody & Georgina Chapman On June 19 the Oscar winner, 48, and the Marchesa designer, 45, made their public debut as a couple at the Tribeca Film Festival premiere of his new movie Clean.

The pair were first linked in 2019, two years after Chapman split from ex-husband Harvey Weinstein.

20

July 12, 2021

The reality star, 37, and the NBA player, 30, have broken up—again. “They are not together right now,” says a source, while another insider adds they “are trying to be on good terms” for their daughter True, 3. The pair have dated on and off since 2016.

Stepping Out

Jason Sudeikis & Keeley Hazell The actor, 45, and the 34-year-old modelactress—who appears in his Apple TV+ comedy Ted Lasso—were photographed together for the first time June 27 in N.Y.C. People confirmed the pair were dating in February, following Sudeikis’s 2020 split from ex-fiancée Olivia Wilde.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: SHUTTERSTOCK; THE IMAGE DIRECT; JIM SPELLMAN/GETTY IMAGES

Off Again

Scoop

Amy Sedaris on Babies, Bunnies & Brothers

‘I’M HAPPIEST WHEN I AM WITH MY FAMILY. WE ARE INTERESTED IN THE SAME THINGS AND ALL GET ALONG’

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DREAMWORKS ANIMATION LLC; COREY NICKOLS/CONTOUR BY GETTY IMAGES; SCOTT GRIES/GETTY IMAGES

Sedaris’s Tina (right) faces off with the Boss Baby (Alec Baldwin).

The actress and comedian, 60, lends her voice to a demanding new infant named Tina in The Boss Baby: Family Business (in theaters now), the sequel to the 2017 animated film. “A bossy baby that wears a three-piece suit and a clip-on tie is exactly something I love to play,” Sedaris says.

“It’s fun to be bossy.” and we got along really, really well.

You grew up in a big family with three What’s been your most challenging sisters and two brothers—including role—and what’s been your favorite? acclaimed author David Sedaris.

Being on The Mandalorian is the hardest What was the Sedaris household like? job I’ve ever had in my We were like the life. I don’t know what I’m Munster house. Kids in talking about, and the our neighborhood writers get a kick out of wanted to play at our it. At Home with Amy Sehouse, but we were daris [her truTV comedy exclusive. We all have the same sense of humor. We still are a very close family.

Your father, Lou Sedaris, died in May. What is your favorite Tight-Knit memory of him?

Fa m i l y I had a good relationship Above: Sedaris with her late with my dad growing up. He father, Lou. Right: taught me how to grocery shop. with brother My mom would make the list.

David in 2001.

We would do the shopping,

series] was a lot of fun. We had guest stars I never thought I would get, like Michael Shannon, Ann Dowd and Paul Rudd.

When did you know you wanted to be an actress?

I always did. When we were little, I had an imaginary cooking show with my brother David and a fake Price Is Right show.

What’s your favorite thing to do these days with David?

We’re always laughing and bouncing ideas off each other. We go to the park and feed squirrels. I’m into woodland creatures. I like small animals.

Speaking of which, how is your rabbit Tina doing?

Well, it’s a boy rabbit. When I got him, I thought it was a girl. But lately, I see Tina nodding off a lot. I’m like, “Oh, you’re now turning into grandpa taking extra naps and growing a little grumpy.” — M I A M c N I E C E July 12, 2021

23

Scoop

Friends Ladies Spill Fresh Secrets

Still Friends

The Friends reunion continued on SiriusXM’s The Howard Stern Show June 23 when stars and real-life pals Jennifer Aniston, 52, Courteney Cox, 57, and Lisa Kudrow, 57, stopped by to reflect on the show’s success and share more behind-thescenes info. The juiciest takeaways:

1

One male guest star brought an “attitude” to the set.

Aniston revealed that an actor who briefly appeared on the series acted “as if they were just so above this, to be on a sitcom.” Though she didn’t name the star, Aniston ruled out Tom Selleck and Sean Penn—and said she eventually received an apology from him “years later, and [he] just said, ‘I was so nervous, to be honest, that I wasn’t on my best behavior.’ ”

2

Kudrow (left) told Stern she can always count on Aniston (center) and Cox, who “came running to support” her when her mom died last year.

Cox felt “hurt” being the only Friend without an Emmy nod.

Aniston, Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer all received acting nominations during the show’s 10-year run, though only the ladies ever won. “I was happy for everybody, and then when it was finally like, ‘Oh, I’m the only one?’ it hurt,” Cox said. She eventually earned a Golden Globe nod for Cougar Town. “It meant everything to me.”

3

Wardrobe fittings were a challenge for Kudrow.

Kudrow recalled hugging Aniston and Cox, and “it was just like I enveloped them,” she said. “I felt like this mountainous thing that swallowed them alive.”

Kudrow acknowledged she has “a different body type” than her female costars.

“It’s not that I felt horrible around them,” she added. “Fittings were not fun, that’s for sure.” — D A N A R O S E F A L C O N E

Taraji P. Henson prepped to host the June 27 BET Awards by hitting the gym. “That’s good for the body and for the mental,” the actress, 50, says. The Empire alum shares how she carves out me-time—and mastered online shopping.

You act in movies and on TV and run the Boris Lawrence Henson Paying It Foundation.

Fo r wa rd How do you “I know I’m find balance? privileged,” I know how to Henson (inset, with son Marcell) says. say no. That “When you are comes with 50. blessed, you should I really have be a blessing.”

no more f---ks. If it doesn’t make me happy, I can’t do it.

What do you do when you find yourself in a slump? I will shop. These little fingers, honey, I don’t need to go to the store; 9 times out of 10, they ain’t going to have [what I want], and I don’t want to be around everybody’s germs. So I am a beast on the Internet.

Your foundation aims to end stigma around depression and mental health. Why is that a passion? Because I was suffering, my son [Marcell, 27] was suffering. He was

in grade school after my father passed, and he said, “Mommy, we had to make Father’s Day cards today, and I didn’t have anybody to make one for.” [His father, William Lamarr Johnson, died when Marcell was 9.]

That broke my heart. We’re healing. And if I’m suffering and I got the money and the means, imagine how many millions are suffering. I just wanted to be of service.

—JACOREY MOON

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ABC/GETTY IMAGES; MATT BARON/SHUTTERSTOCK; TROY HARVEY/ABC/GETTY IMAGES

How Taraji P. Henson Stays Fit and Happy

Scoop

(REAL ESTATE) FROM TOP: MATT WINKELMEYER/GETTY IMAGES; NEUE FOCUS(5); (BABY BOOM) FROM LEFT: JASON LAVERIS/FILMMAGIC; JERRITT CLARK/GETTY IMAGES

OPEN HOUSE

Norman Reedus & Diane Kruger’s West Coast Castle

The Walking Dead actor, 52, and the National Treasure actress, 44, have listed their Hollywood Hills home, just 16 months after buying it. The 7,732-sq.-ft.

French Normandy-style house features turrets and balconies outside, while the interior boasts a modern minimalist vibe.

In addition to a massive living room, the spread features a theater, gym, recording studio and arcade.

The couple purchased the property for $8.5 million in March 2020, just before the pandemic hit.

One of four bedrooms, the primary suite has a fireplace.

The back patio has a pizza oven, not far from the basketball court and pool.

on sale for $9.25 MILLION

The house includes seven bathrooms.

Baby Boom!

T H E L AT E S T O N H O L LY W O O D ’ S GROWING FAMILIES Ewan McGregor & Mary Elizabeth Winstead

On June 27 McGregor’s adult daughters, Clara, 25, and Esther, 19, revealed the actor, 50, and girlfriend Winstead, 36, welcomed a son, Laurie. McGregor is dad to two other daughters from his previous marriage, Jamyan, 20, and Anouk, 10.

N e -Yo & Crystal Renay

“She came 4 weeks early but right on time,” the singer’s wife, 34, posted on Instagram June 25, announcing the birth of daughter Isabella Rose. This is the fifth child for Ne-Yo, 41, who shares two other kids with Renay and has two children from a past relationship.

July 12, 2021

25

The perfect coverage for that perfect face From the first moment you saw that face, you knew you’d do anything to protect your pet. That’s why Nationwide® makes protecting pets easy and affordable, with cash back on everything from regular checkups to emergency care.

Get a quote on the best coverage for the best pet. petinsurance.com • 855-630-7063 Products underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Columbus, OH, an A.M. Best A+ rated company (2020); National Casualty Company (all other states), Columbus, OH, an A.M. Best A+ rated company (2020). Agency of Record: DVM Insurance Agency. All are subsidiaries of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. ©2021 Nationwide. 21CON8062C

passages Engagements

Cory Tran and Freida Pinto

Victoria’s Secret model Taylor Hill, 25, got engaged to venture capitalist Daniel Fryer on June 25.

Big Brother: All-Stars contestants Christmas Abbott, 39, and Memphis Garrett, 38, are engaged less than a year after competing on the CBS reality show.

•

Health Babies Slumdog Millionaire actress Freida Pinto, 36, and her photographer fiancé, Cory Tran, announced that they’re expecting their first child together this fall.

Sports Illustrated model Hunter McGrady, 28, and her husband, creative director Brian Keys, 44, welcomed a son, Hudson Tynan, on June 26. Keys also has a daughter from a previous marriage.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: KURT KRIEGER/CORBIS/GETTY IMAGES; GARY GERSHOFF/WIREIMAGE; BOAZ FREUND/SWIFT RIVER PRODUCTIONS

•

Blink-182 singer and bassist Mark Hoppus, 49, revealed he’s been undergoing chemotherapy for an unspecified type of cancer. “It sucks and I’m scared,” he posted.

Courts

Kobe Bryant’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, 39, and the

families of the other victims agreed to settle a lawsuit against the pilot and owners of the helicopter that crashed in January 2020, killing nine, including the NBA star and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna.

Ex-Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, 45, was sentenced to 22 and a half years in prison for the May 2020 killing of George Floyd. In his sentencing memo, Judge Peter Cahill wrote that Chauvin “denied [Floyd]

The actress, 74, has partnered with Power to the Patients to combat hidden— and often exorbitant—health care costs

Happy Birthday!

Tom Hanks, 65 July 9, 1956 Kevin Bacon, 63 July 8, 1958 Sofía Vergara, 49 July 10, 1972

Deaths

Max Rosenthal, father of

Everybody Loves Raymond

Crime

Susan Sarandon

Sarandon in front of a Power to the Patients mural by artist Shepard Fairey.

the dignity owed to all human beings.”

creator Phil Rosenthal and a recurring guest on the sitcom, died June 26 at 95.

Former Skid Row singer Johnny Solinger died at 55.

He had been hospitalized in May for liver failure.

Blackalicious rapper Gift of Gab died of natural causes on June 18. He was 50.

• • Phil (left) and Max Rosenthal

By DANA ROSE FALCONE

My brother had a liver transplant, and in the aftermath of the procedure he struggled with unforeseen medical expenses. I’m privileged and am in a position to help him, but not everyone has that support. When you look at what these things cost and the fluctuation of PERSONAL prices—even with insurance—that’s the last STORIES ABOUT thing you want to have on your mind when GIVING BACK you’re recuperating. Power to the Patients wants Americans to know that transparent pricing is your right. [Thanks to new rules], hospitals are obligated to tell you ahead of time what they’re going to charge you—instead of you finding out when you’re at your most vulnerable. People are putting off operations because they’re afraid they can’t afford them, or they’re getting wiped out by bills after the fact. [Our health care price awareness campaign] empowers patients to comparison shop for the best care. You have to take the time to look around, make informed decisions and be the protagonist in your own life. You’re worth it.

Why I Care

—R e p o r t e d b y K A R E N M I Z O G U C H I

For more information, go to powertothepatients.org July 12, 2021

27

! e l i m s o S t o r i e so ut . . . make y

Fashion hound Tika the Iggy lends a paw to support the LGBTQ+ community MONTREAL

She’s graced the pages of Vogue and Cosmopolitan and is beloved for her fabulous fashions and supermodel swagger. But now, Tika—a 10-year-old Italian greyhound with close to 300 outfits and 1.1 million Instagram (@tikatheiggy) fans—is using her fame to support LGBTQ+ causes. “Fans were calling her a ‘gay icon’ because, well, she has two dads and because she was dressed so fabulously,” says owner Thomas Shapiro, a 29-year-old Web developer who shares Tika with his husband, Louis Morissette. “But then we realized we had a voice and a way to give back to our community.” Shapiro has raised more than $10,000 for LGBTQ+ charities selling Tika T-shirts, plushies and other merchandise online.

“She makes me smile every day,” he says. “She’s a bit of a diva, [but] we have so much fun together. . . . We want people to feel safe being themselves and to see that there can be a happy ending for those who are struggling.”

Tika’s famous fans include Lizzo and actress Kristen Bell.

“She was born to do this,” says Shapiro (inset, with husband Morissette, right, and Tika).

Newlywed dons her unworn wedding dress to celebrate getting her COVID-19 vaccine

“I hope it encouraged people who were hesitant about getting the vaccine to go ahead and do it,” says Studley (right, with Horlor at their wedding).

28

By WENDY GROSSMAN KANTOR

Sarah Studley and Brian Horlor had planned a big wedding for 2020, but because of the pandemic, they had to settle instead for a small family-only affair. Which is why the 39-year-old attorney decided to get her COVID-19 vaccine on April 11 in the dress she’d planned to wear to her canceled reception. “I had this pretty dress and really wanted to wear it,” says Studley, who has been getting compliments on social media ever since. “I did it for me, but I didn’t realize it would also bring joy to all of these other people too.”

Have a story that makes you smile?

Send suggestions to storiestomakeyousmile@people.com

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: THOMAS SHAPIRO @TIKATHEIGGY(5); CRAIG CHADDOCK; RICHIE STEVER/UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND MEDICAL SYSTEM

B A LT I M O R E

Time Give Your Dog Amazing BLUE Treats!

For a

y BLUE treats in a variety of

sty flavors.

©2021 Blue Buffalo Co., Ltd.

heal

ey do for us, let’s give our dogs deliciously

LOVE them like family. TREAT them like family.™

People Food Awards Logo is a registered trademark of TI Gotham Inc. and is used under license.

T H E B E S T S T U F F TO WATC H , R E A D & L I S T E N TO T H I S W E E K !

Edited By To m G l i a t t o

Ramona Young (left), Lee Rodriguez and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan.

NETFLIX | Never Have I Ever

ISABELLA B. VOSMIKOVA/NETFLIX

More adorkable adventures

COMEDY Along with Apple TV+’s Ted Lasso, Never Have I Ever, co-created by Mindy Kaling, is one of the best sitcoms currently out there—upbeat, clever, heartening and arguably better than anything you’ll find on the networks, where the sitcom first emerged from the ocean to walk on land. In season 2, Indian American high school student Devi (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan), described with great accuracy as an “ineffable dork,” tries to make a go of double-dating the handsome but not-all-thatbright Paxton (Darren Barnet) and the smart but slightly off-putting Ben (Jaren Lewison).

As usual she responds with bursts of girlish teenage joy undermined by commonsensical,

even ethical, dread. “I’d like to be your girlfriend,” she tells Paxton. “As long as we don’t kill each other, I think it could be really nice.” Life gets even more challenging when a new Indian American student named Aneesa (Megan Suri) arrives and becomes instantly popular—unlike Devi, who has been described, again with some degree of accuracy, as “objectively lame.” The show’s most ingenious stunt remains having tennis legend John McEnroe as an intrusive narrator commenting on virtually every scene with gruff, blunt urgency. When a boy and a girl share a ChapStick, he tells us, “That’s the equivalent of a glass of brandy before sex!” (Launches July 15)

‘Upbeat, clever, heartening’

July 12, 2021

31

picks NETFLIX | The Ice Road

Liam Neeson’s rig is in danger of slip slidin’ away ACTION Ice-road trucker Mike McCann (Neeson) is driving his 18-wheeler across a crackling frozen ocean on a rescue mission. Miners in Manitoba have been trapped by a cave-in, and Mike and his teammates (including Laurence Fishburne) are bringing in drilling equipment to get the poor oxygen-deprived guys back up to the surface. The adventure makes for a solid B movie, which is what audiences expect from most Neeson action vehicles. But, as always, there’s something irresistible about his stubborn, stoic melancholy. He’s like Abe Lincoln with iron fists. (Streaming now)

Q&A Sex/Life’s Adam Demos

The Australian actor, 35, stars with real-life love Sarah Shahi on Netflix’s steamy new drama.

How did you tell your mom about this show?

Initially, I said, “Just be prepared to turn away because your son’s going to be doing some naughty stuff.”

But once you get through that, it’s about relationships and choices.

MUSIC | Tyler, the Creator,

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: NETFLIX(2); TARA ZIEMBA/GETTY IMAGES; AMANDA MATLOVICH/NETFLIX; CRAIG BARRITT/GETTY IMAGES

Call Me if You Get Lost

RAP The boundary-pushing MC and producer’s latest is heavier on rhymes than 2019’s Grammywinning Igor, as Tyler keeps refining the futuristic funk and R&B that define his singular discography. Pharrell Williams, Lil Wayne and Lil Uzi Vert add topnotch cameos to the immersive, intimate project. (Available now)

NETFLIX | We the People ANIMATED In a divisive era of red states and blue, we can all probably use the civics lessons offered—Schoolhouse Rock-style— by these savvy animated musical shorts, performed by stars including Adam Lambert (the Bill of Rights) and Bebe Rexha (immigration). Regarding what’s owed the IRS, a rapping cat (Cordae) reminds us, “Little homie, you better pay your tax.”

(Launches July 4)

Demos and Shahi on Sex/Life.

What’s an ideal date night for you and Sarah?

I like to leave all of those things for us, but I’ll just say I’m a very lucky man.

What have you enjoyed most now that things are opening up?

I went to a movie the other day for the first time in over a year, and that was epic.

What are your summer plans?

I’m going back to Australia soon, and it’s winter!

—BREANNE L. HELDMAN July 12, 2021

33

picks

® ®

YOUTUBE

30 Days with: Bretman Rock

REALITY TikTok star Rock— a gender-bending fashion guru with a hilarious personality—tries to survive on his own in the Hawaiian jungle. His theatrics as he takes on the great outdoors make for a wild ride. (New episodes launch Wednesdays)

THE POWER TO

REDUCE ALLERGENS IN CAT HAIR & DANDER

Genera+ion’s Nathanya Alexander

The Brooklyn native, 23, plays outspoken Arianna on the HBO Max hit about Gen Z high schoolers. In real life she attended Manhattan’s prestigious LaGuardia high school for the arts, where Timothée Chalamet was also a student. “All the girls would fangirl over him,” she recalls.

—GLENN GARNER

Pro Plan LiveClear was shown to reduce starting in the third week of daily feeding.

Discover the freedom you and your cat could have.

ProPlan.com/LiveClearChallenge Alexander (left) with Lukita Maxwell and Chloe East.

Exclusively at Pet Specialty and Online Retailers

(ALEXANDER) EMILY ASSIRAN; INSET: WARRICK PAGE/HBO

the major allergen by an average of 47%,

one to watch

® ®

TAKE THE ™

The hardhatted maintenance staff of Monsters, Inc.

DISNEY+ | Monsters at Work Office politics can be scary!

FAMILY In this series inspired by the Pixar hits Monsters, Inc. and Monsters University, a bright young beast named Tylor Tuskmon (Superstore’s Ben Feldman), wide-horned and towering in height, shows up for his first day at corporate headquarters, unaware that company policy is now to make children laugh, not scream. He winds up assigned to the maintenance crew. Silly and clever. (First two episodes launch July 7)

See a difference.

Or your money back.

ProPlan.com/LiveClearChallenge

SAVE $4.99 The Fifth Dimension at the Harlem Cultural Festival.

FROM TOP: DISNEY; CBS/GETTY IMAGES

HULU | Summer of Soul

DOCUMENTARY Directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson—and subtitled (. . . or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)—this terrific film is about an all-but-forgotten concert series, the Harlem Cultural Festival, that took place in 1969, the same summer as Woodstock. Headliners included Nina Simone, a 19-year-old Stevie Wonder, Sly & the Family Stone and Gladys Knight and the Pips. In addition to delivering electric performance footage— we get Mahalia Jackson in all her thundering glory—Summer connects the festival to a pivotal moment in Black history.

(Launches July 2; also in theaters, PG-13)

picks

book of the week

The Best New Books Torn between two lovers, surviving an unsettled childhood, and a fight for life in the wilds of Maine Edited by KIM HUBBARD

Cheryl Diamond Nowhere Girl

Miranda Cowley Heller The Paper Palace

THRILLER Game warden Mike Bowditch plunges into a frozen river when his jeep is sabotaged—and that’s just the first nail-biter in a nightlong fight for survival in the Maine wilderness. Doiron splices in the investigation that led to the ambush, proving his mastery of pacing and suspense.

Frostbite aside, this book sizzles.

New in Paperback Lynn Steger Michele Harper Strong The Beauty Want in Breaking Juggling motherHarper’s memoir hood, marriage about being a Black and financial woes, female physician a Brooklyn academic in the mostly seeks solace white male world from a once-close of emergency friend—with lifemedicine is raw altering results. and illuminating.

36

July 12, 2021

Caroline Leavitt With or Without You When Stella wakes up from a twomonth coma, the man she’s loved and her own dreams both look different. A wise, involving novel about self-realization and second chances.

Contributors BOOKS RICHARD EISENBERG, CLAIRE MARTIN, ELLEN SHAPIRO MUSIC ERIC RENNER BROWN TV TOMÁS MIER

INSETS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: MARK FLEMING; STEPHA DANSKY PHOTOGRAPHY 2020; EVAN FIRESTONE

NOVEL Ensconced in her family’s rustic compound on Cape Cod for an annual summer trip, Elle Bishop is at a crossroads, forced to choose between the two great loves of her life. Should she run off with the longtime bestie she’s secretly been in love with since they endured a ghastly childhood trauma together?

Or stay with her cherished husband, a dashing Brit who’s the father of her kids? A soulful debut that plumbs the depths of a midlife Sophie’s Choice.

MEMOIR The daughter of a cruel father who was on the lam from Interpol, Diamond had hopscotched with her family across 12 countries by the time she was 9. Somehow she found her own way, becoming a super-successful young model despite that harrowing start.

A riveting tale of trauma and resilience.

Paul Doiron Dead by Dawn

MARTHA’S FIRST TIME...

IN THE FREEZER SECTION. Serve up delicious comforting classics, fast.

Savor the home-cooked flavors of Martha's favorite Entrée, Appetizer, Side Dish, and Dessert recipes.

Find your nearest store by scanning the code below

marthastewartkitchen.com

NEW!

MARTHA'S BEST RECIPES MADE EASY

At a Crossroads

“She is a grown woman who has been unhappy for too long,” a music source says of Britney (performing in 2016).

The Fight Over B r i t n e y ’s Fu t u r e AFTER 13 YEARS OF LIVING U N D E R A CO N S E R VATO R S H I P, THE PRINCESS OF POP IS PLEADING FOR FREEDOM— AND SPEAKING OUT LIKE NEVER BEFORE

NOAM GALAI/FILMMAGIC

By B R I A N N E T R A C Y

July 12, 2021

39

Just hours after giving an impassioned 23 minutes of testimony during a conservatorship hearing in a Los Angeles court on June 23, Britney Spears jetted off to Hawaii with her actor-model boyfriend Sam Asghari for some much-needed R&R. On the plane ride Asghari, 27, shared a sweet Instagram video of himself and the singer, 39, goofing around—but their giggles belied the stress that sources say the couple have been feeling for weeks.

“They’re trying to enjoy a few quiet days together in Hawaii, which is Britney’s favorite place,” says a source close to the Spears family. “She and Sam have been through so much together. Britney was very nervous about speaking in front of the judge, but this is her life—and she wants big changes.”

Britney’s emotional—and at times shocking— speech came amid intense renewed interest in the pop superstar’s legal situation. It’s the first time in 13 years Britney has publicly addressed her conservatorship, under which her father, Jamie, and others have held the power to make her personal and financial decisions since 2008, when Britney’s erratic behavior culminated in two involuntary 5150 holds in a psychiatric hospital. “I’ve been in shock. I am traumatized,” said Britney, who called into court via phone and abruptly cut off a suggestion by her personal conservator Jodi Montgomery’s lawyer to keep the hearing closed for privacy.

As she rapidly made startling allegations against her conservators, family and management team— including that they denied her the right to have more children by not letting her remove her IUD, forced her to work a grueling schedule she likened to “sex trafficking” and put her on the psychiatric drug lithium (which is commonly used to treat mood disorders, including bipolar disorder) against her wishes—Britney was asked twice by Judge Brenda Penny to slow down for the court recorder.

“My dad and anyone involved in this conservatorship and my management who played a huge role in punishing me—they should be in jail,” said Britney, whose longtime court-appointed lawyer Sam Ingham prefaced his client’s speech by informing the judge he had “not attempted” to “filter” Britney’s words. (During the hearing the star was not ques40

July 12, 2021

‘I’ve lied and told the whole world I’m okay and happy’ —BRITNEY SPEARS, IN COURT

tioned by her conservators’ lawyers, and they have not yet had a chance to respond to her allegations in court.) Spears, who, according to sealed documents obtained by The New York Times, had previously expressed her frustrations to the court in private since at least 2016, told the judge she hadn’t been informed she could petition for her conservatorship’s termination, which usually requires medical evaluations by a conservatee’s doctors.

“The main reason why I’m here is because I want you to [end the] conservatorship without having to be evaluated,” she said with conviction. “I deserve changes. I just want my life back.”

Those close to Britney say her explosive court alle-

gations have been a long time coming. In January 2019 she canceled her planned Las Vegas show and CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: VALERIE MACON/AFP/GETTY IMAGES; CHRIS PIZZELLO/AP/SHUTTERSTOCK; KEVIN MAZUR/WIREIMAGE; IMAGE GROUP LA/DISNEY CHANNEL/GETTY IMAGES; JEFF KRAVITZ/FILMMAGIC; CHRIS FARINA/CORBIS/GETTY IMAGES

announced a career break as Jamie recovered from his own health crisis, a ruptured colon. That April she checked into treatment at a wellness facility—a decision she claimed in court was orchestrated by her dad. “I cried on the phone for an hour, and he loved every minute of it,” she said. In August 2019, Jamie, 69, was involved in an alleged altercation with Britney’s son Sean Preston, now 15. Weeks later, court documents revealed that Jamie was stepping down as his daughter’s personal conservator after more than

Showing Support

Britney’s fans gathered outside her June 23 hearing in Los Angeles. “We all want the fairy tale life,” the star (left, in 2019) wrote on Instagram afterward.

Where the Spears Family Stands

a decade. (Montgomery, Britney’s longtime care manager, temporarily replaced Jamie as the conservator of her person, responsible for medical decisions. Jamie remains co-conservator of her estate, along with wealth-management company Bessemer Trust.) “Britney was close with her dad for years. It really seems that she realizes he saved her life in 2008, but she doesn’t agree that the conservatorship should have continued on for all these years,” says the family source. “She hasn’t had contact with her dad for a long time and was

Sister Jamie Lynn

“I’m so proud of her for using her voice. If ending the conservatorship [is what] she wants . . .

I support that 100%,” Jamie Lynn, 30 (in 2017), said June 28 on Instagram.

Dad Jamie

A source says the father-daughter pair used to be close, but now Britney “has no contact” with her dad (above, in Las Vegas in 2006).

Mom Lynne

Lynne (in 2002) feels ex-husband Jamie “has not been transparent with her,” says the family source. “She’s been encouraging Britney to stay hopeful.”

Brother Bryan

In July 2020 Bryan, 44 (in 2003 with his parents and siblings), said on Drew Plotkin’s podcast that the conservatorship has “been a great thing for our family.”

July 12, 2021

41

FROM CHAOS TO CONTROL Fe e l i n g O ve r p ro t e c t e d

Reaching a Breaking Point

Within a month of her hospitalizations, Britney was placed under her father’s co-conservatorship.

In the MTV doc Britney: For the Record, released in November 2008, Britney (with Jamie) tearfully lamented that her life “is too in control.”

Career Comeback

Between 2012 and 2017, Britney’s career was back on track as she served as a judge on The X Factor (above, with Demi Lovato and Simon Cowell), released her ninth studio album, Glory (below), and performed in a Las Vegas residency (right).

Britney filed for divorce from Federline in 2006. “I was devastated,” she later said. Amid a custody battle with Federline in January 2008, Britney was placed under two 5150 psychiatric holds.

beyond upset after Jamie’s altercation with her son.” (Jamie’s lawyers declined multiple requests for comment from People.)

Since then Britney has battled in court to prevent Jamie’s potential return as her personal conservator. And now she’s no longer staying silent.

A day after the court hearing, she shared a heartfelt Instagram note with fans, who unleashed an avalanche of support following her speech.

“I apologize for pretending like I’ve been ok the past two years,” she wrote. “I did it because of my pride and I was embarrassed to share what happened to me.” But while Britney wishes to have her conservatorship end without being evaluated

by medical professionals, multiple legal experts say it’s more complicated than that. “You cannot end a conservatorship without a capacity declaration signed by a physician who has examined her within six months,” says probate attorney David A. Esquibias, who represents actress Amanda Bynes in her own conservatorship case. “It would be highly unusual for a judge to make a decision without the opinion of an expert.” A source close to the situation says that since taking over the role, conservator Montgomery “and a team of experts have concentrated on giving Britney the tools to get better. The hope is that she can get out of the conservatorship.”

Her Life as a Mom

42

July 12, 2021

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: CHAD BUCHANAN/PATRICK MCMULLAN/GETTY IMAGES; FOX IMAGE COLLECTION/GETTY IMAGES; MARCO PIRACCINI/MONDADORI/GETTY IMAGES; JAMES DEVANEY/ WIREIMAGE; JON SOOHOO/LA DODGERS/GETTY IMAGES; JEFFREY MAYER/WIREIMAGE

Last March Britney shared on Instagram that she was feeling “extremely lucky” because of her sons. “My two babies are such gentlemen and so kind that I must have done something right,” she captioned a photo (right) with Jayden and Preston (above right in 2013). They live primarily with Federline (above left, with Britney in 2005), to whom she pays child support. According to his lawyer, Federline “supports [the conservatorship’s ending] if it’s what’s best for her.”

Hidden Pain

After taking a work hiatus in 2019, Britney privately struggled with her conservatorship.

On June 23 she said her Instagram posts—like this June 14 snap— were “a lie.”

Justin Shows Support

She was first determined to have lost the capacity

to make decisions for herself in 2008, following years of struggles in the public eye. Since becoming a worldwide phenomenon at age 17 with her No. 1-hit debut studio album, . . . Baby One More Time, Britney—who was raised in rural Kentwood, La., by Jamie and her mother, Lynne—has grappled with the pressures created by sudden fame and wealth as well as omnipresent paparazzi and intense scrutiny of her romantic life. After a breakup with fellow pop star Justin Timberlake in 2002, Britney eloped in Las Vegas with her childhood friend Jason Alexander in January 2004. (The marriage was annulled 55 hours later.) Eight months later she wed backup dancer Kevin Federline. She filed for divorce soon after they welcomed their second son, Jayden James, in 2006. As she battled with Federline over spousal support and custody of Jayden, now 14, and Sean Preston, Britney became a nightlife fixture

Months after apologizing publicly to Britney for his misogynistic behavior following their 2002 split, Timberlake threw his support behind his ex hours after her hearing.

“Jess and I send our love,” he tweeted on behalf of himself and wife Jessica Biel. “We hope the courts, and her family make this right and let her live however she wants to live.”

Speaking Out in Court

On June 23 Britney gave emotional testimony by phone to an L.A. County superior court (above) about life under her conservatorship.

“I’m not happy. I can’t sleep,” she said.

“I’m so angry, it’s insane. I cry every day.”

and reportedly struggled with drug and alcohol abuse. On Feb. 16, 2007, she abruptly checked herself into and out of a drug rehabilitation facility in Antigua. That evening she resurfaced at a salon in L.A., where she shaved her head. Days later Britney’s team announced she had checked herself into a rehab clinic in California after her longtime manager Larry Rudolph and family members staged an intervention. “I was like a bad kid running around with ADD,” Britney wrote in an open letter to fans on her website at the time, adding, “I am only human people, and I love you for still loving me.”

While those close to Britney hoped the rehab stay would point her life in the right direction, things ended up taking an even more troubling turn in 2008 as she struggled over custody with Federline, 43. During each of her 5150 psychiatric holds, a medical professional deemed Britney a danger to herself and others. (Britney’s diagnosis and medical records remain private.) Within a month, Jamie petitioned for an emergency temporary conservatorship, which was granted by a judge. “In 2008 Britney clearly needed the conservatorship,” says the family source. “People close to her believe that she wouldn’t be alive without it. She didn’t sleep, drove around 24/7 and acted very distressed. There were huge concerns about her mental health.” Adds a music-world source: “She used to be involved with the decisions made about her career and finances, but things changed when she had public outbursts and other issues.”

By the end of the year, the star was able to gain more visitation time with her sons and reignite her career with the release of her sixth studio album, Circus, as the conservatorship was made July 12, 2021

43

permanent. In the years that followed, she had several successful world tours, a stint as a judge on the Fox talent competition show X Factor and a Las Vegas residency. Earlier this year Jamie’s attorney Vivian L. Thoreen told ABC News that her client had boosted the singer’s fortune, which she claimed had dwindled to $2.8 million at the height of Britney’s troubles, to nearly $60 million over the past decade. “Jamie saved Britney’s life,” said Thoreen. “He has collaborated with her to help her regain custody of her children. He has brought her finances back from disaster. And he’s created a safe environment for her to live her life the way she wants.”

Though many sources agree Jamie helped lift his daughter out of a tumultuous time, some feel

Support from Her Boyfriend

Experts on the Biggest Questions Now What steps can Britney take next?

“The court can’t move ahead until a petition to terminate is filed,” says family-law attorney David Glass. “Britney said she found conservatorships terminated without an evaluation, and that’s not exactly true. A doctor or psychologist has to do a full analysis.”

Can conservators really require birth control?

Sources say Asghari encourages Britney to work out and eat healthy. “Team flex over here,” he captioned a June 28 video of them at the gym.

Since they met in 2016, Asghari has been Britney’s “rock,” says a family source. In February, shortly after the release of a New York Times documentary about her life and conservatorship, Asghari (top, with Britney in 2018) told People that he has “always wanted nothing but the best for my better half and will continue to support her following her dreams.”

44

July 12, 2021

How do courts hold conservators accountable?

“Looking at life through Britney’s eyes, she’s a hostage because her life is controlled by others,” says trial lawyer Tom Lallas. “But inside the walls of the courtroom, there are periodic reviews and reporting obligations.”

A bright spot for Britney through the difficult

time has been her relationship with Asghari.

“He is a great influence on Britney. He doesn’t drink or do drugs. He is very focused on being healthy and inspires Britney,” the family source says of Asghari, whom Britney has been dating since they met on the set of her “Slumber Party” music video in 2016. “She would be lost without him.” Britney made clear in court that she hopes to get married and have a baby with Asghari, and a friend of the couple says the model is on the same page. “He’s ready for marriage and kids with Britney and is serious about the relationship. She wants to take that next step and have that full life with him,” says the friend. “As a couple they’ve hidden how they’ve really felt even from people close to them because they were anxious and scared, but now it’s all out there.”

Amid Britney’s ups and downs through the years, sources say, she found steadfast joy in her sons. “Like most people, Britney wants a happy life with a person she loves,” says the music source. “She loves being a mom and would like more children. That decision should be up to her.” While her sons primarily live with their

FROM LEFT: VIVIEN KILLILEA/GETTY IMAGES; ETHAN MILLER/GETTY IMAGES

Positive Influence

“As invasive as it sounds, the idea is to protect the conservatee who is unable to care for herself while pregnant,” says probate lawyer David A. Esquibias.

However, “typically, a conservator doesn’t have the right to force psychotropic drugs.

That requires signoff from a judge.”

it’s time for her to regain some control. Jamie— who has reportedly been paid $16,000 a month from Britney’s fortune for his role as conservator, along with a percentage of her concert earnings—maintains he only has Britney’s best interests at heart: “He is sorry to see his daughter in so much pain . . . and misses her very much,” Thoreen said in court after Britney’s testimony.

But Britney feels “a lack of trust for Jamie and the conservator team,” says the family source.

And while Jamie is now in charge only of Britney’s finances as estate co-conservator, “he still has to approve everything, because everything is related to finances at the end of the day,” says the source close to the situation. “If she wants to go to Hawaii, he has to approve that because it costs money. If she wants to take her friends to dinner, he has to approve that because it costs money. He has the right to say no to certain things.” Britney’s attorney told the court last fall that the singer is “afraid of her father.”

And her mom, Lynne, 66—who has been largely uninvolved with her daughter’s conservatorship over the years—told the judge that Jamie and Britney had a “toxic” relationship. “Lynne got involved after Britney begged her for help,” says the family source. “Lynne feels there are a lot of concerns with the conservatorship. She is helping Britney as much as she can.”

dad, “Kevin certainly respects Britney and only hopes the best for her,” says Federline’s lawyer Mark Vincent Kaplan. “The kids love their mother, and he wants there to be a healthy and strong relationship.”

In court it’s now up to Britney—who sources say has no current plans to return to the stage— to file a petition to terminate the conservatorship. After an emotional few weeks, sources say, she and Asghari hope to find some peace.

“They’re pretty normal when they’re together,” says the couple’s friend. “They play Ping-Pong, and she gets supercompetitive. They watch Disney shows and movies together.” But Spears is also determined to fight for her future. “It’s a complicated and complex situation,” says the family source. “There are clear issues with the conservatorship. It’s in place to protect Britney. Yet so many things that Britney is unhappy about are valid. She should definitely have more freedom. This is her life.”

With reporting by PERNILLA CEDENHEIM, MELODY CHIU, LINDA MARX, TOMÁS M I E R a n d KA R A WA R N E R

At Center Stage

‘I’m not here to be anyone’s slave’ —BRITNEY SPEARS, IN COURT

“When Britney is well, she loves to perform,” a family source says of the star (in 2018 at the announcement of her latercanceled Las Vegas residency Domination).

Miami Condo Collapse

‘TOTAL

Rescue and Recovery

Workers continued combing the site days after the collapse.

“It’s unlikely there are many survivors,” says Garrett Johnston, a member of the Urban Search and Rescue Task Force. “But if there’s even one person left alive, this is all worth it.”

JACK GRUBER/USA TODAY; (INSET) MIAMIDADE FIRE RESCUE/XINHUA/REDUX

DEVASTATION’

T

I N A M AT T E R O F S ECO N D S , A 1 2 -S TO RY B E AC H F R O N T R E S I D E N C E WA S R E D U C E D TO R U B B L E . N O W D E S P E R AT E LO V E D O N E S P R AY F O R M I R A C L E S WHILE FIRST RESPONDERS WORK AGAINST A CRUEL CLOCK

By E I L E E N F I N A N and J O H N N Y D O D D

The walls began to vibrate at Surfside’s Champlain Towers, approximately 15 miles away from downtown Miami, in the early hours of June 24. Moments later residents felt a monstrous shaking as the 12-story condo building on the south end of the complex crumpled, tearing apart steel and concrete, living rooms—and lives.

Near the structure’s remaining jagged edge, an upper-floor bedroom sat open to the elements, its empty bunk beds visible; below, rescuers—on the scene in minutes— struggled to make sense of the destruction.

“I just want to curl up and cry,” says a cadaver-dog handler who helped recover two bodies. “This is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.” At press time 11 victims had been confirmed dead; crews continued to search for the 150 people still missing.

“We’re praying, but every hour that goes by, hope disappears,” says Pablo Rodriguez, whose mother and grandmother were in the tower. “It’s heartbreaking.”

Survivors, neighbors, rescuers and loved ones share their stories:

Ben Shaver, 31 SOUTH TOWER SURVIVOR

I was visiting a friend. We were asleep in his fifth-floor condo when it happened. It was like an earthquake. Everything was vibrating; stuff was falling off the walls; the floor was shaking. Then a deafening noise, and through the AC there was this dust. We started to choke, it was so thick. Then a loud crash and the window cracked. I thought, “This is the end of everything.” I was pretty sure I was going to die. Crazy things flash

July 12, 2021

47

United in Pain

Officers joined in prayer (left, June 26), and mourners lit candles (right, June 25). “I am shaken,” says Maria Ruiz, who heard the collapse while visiting friends nearby.

Albert Aguero, 42

Melina Trexel, 39 SURFSIDE NEIGHBOR

BEFORE AFTER

SOUTH TOWER SURVIVOR

At about 1:20 a.m. we were awakened by something like an explosion. The lights were swaying, and I saw out the window the building was enveloped in a cloud of gray. I heard sirens and got on our 11th-floor balcony and yelled to firefighters, “Do we need to evacuate?” and they said, “As quickly as possible.” When we opened the door, I saw the apartment next to us, about 15 feet away, had been sheared in half. The elevator was basically two holes. My wife and kids and I sprinted to the nearest staircase, and that’s where it hit me—it was missing a wall. It was pitch dark and terrifying.

We knew the rest of the building could fall at any moment. We could hear the cries of a woman—“Here we are!”—but we couldn’t see anyone, and there was no way to help. We don’t understand why we survived. Why were we the lucky ones?

Andrea Magni, 62 SURFSIDE NEIGHBOR

I could see people coming out from 48

July 12, 2021

I’ve got a medical background, so I went outside to see if I could help. It was total devastation. People were in a daze. I saw one woman who had come from her apartment, which hadn’t collapsed. I could see tears glistening on her face. I asked if she needed help, and she looked at the building and then around, sighed deeply and said, “I don’t think anyone can help now.”

Rachel Spiegel, 35 DAUGHTER OF MISSING RESIDENT JUDY SPIEGEL

WHAT WENT WRONG?

Constructed in 1981, the building was in the early stages of a 40-year recertification process when it fell. An engineering consultant hired by the condo association in 2018 found cracked columns and crumbling concrete—and repairs were scheduled—but did not state the structure was at risk of collapse.

“This type of investigation doesn’t take place overnight,” says Dr. Atorod Azizinamini of Florida International University’s Moss School of Construction, Infrastructure and Sustainability. “They will find what factors played a role.”

My dad was away on business in California when he got an email about the building. We all started calling my mom’s phone, but it went to voice mail. I got to the scene at 5:30 a.m. and had to wear my mask because of the smoke in the air. I watched how hard the rescue crews are working. I want there to be hope. I want to keep that alive. My 4-year-old daughter keeps saying, “Have you seen Grandma?” My body hasn’t stopped shaking. I just want to hug my mom. She is the best person in the world. It’s torture.

Raul Mendoza, 35 URBAN SEARCH AND RESCUE TASK FORCE MEMBER

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: RELIABLE NEWS MEDIA/CNN; IRF/YOUTUBE; SCOTT MCINTYRE/ THE NEW YORK TIMES/REDUX; CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP/GETTY IMAGES; GOOGLE EARTH; SCOTT MCINTYRE/THE NEW YORK TIMES/REDUX; ANGEL VALENTIN/THE NEW YORK TIMES/REDUX

a stairwell, some crying, some hysterical; some were calm. They were covered with dust from head to toe. It looked like ghosts were coming out of the building. Ghosts everywhere.

through your mind—terrorism, a sinkhole. . . . I thought for a second, “What if a meteor hit us?” Buildings just don’t collapse in America. We didn’t know if we were safer inside or outside. We took the stairway next to his unit and started running. If we had turned the other way, we would have known that half the building was gone. In the stairwell there was a calmness I can’t explain. Like, we can scream later. Right now we need to live.

HEARTBREAKING LOSS At press time, the names of 8 of the 11 victims recovered by authorities had been publicly released. Another 150 people believed to be in the Champlain Towers remain missing.

Buried Alive

Soon after the collapse, rescuers pulled 15-year-old Jonah Handler (above) from the wreckage along with his mother, Stacie Fang. Fang did not survive.

Luis Bermúdez, 26, & his mom, Ana Ortiz, 46

Ortiz’s world revolved around giving Luis, her wheelchair-bound son, the best life.

“She was a super mom,” says a friend.

Gladys, 79, & Antonio Lozano, 83

“They were truly the kind of people who, whenever you needed them, were there for you,” says the couple’s nephew, local TV weatherman Phil Ferro.

Stacie Fang, 54

Fang was pulled from the rubble with her son, Jonah Handler, 15. “There are no words to describe [this loss],” the family said in a statement.

Manuel LaFont, 54

Cristina, 74, & Leon Oliwkowicz, 80

It’s “an unimaginable tragedy,” says Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar of the loss of the couple, originally from Venezuela.

The divorced dad’s two kids left the complex hours before the collapse. “He was an unbelievable father,” says a friend.

I’ve been clearing smaller rubble, moving pieces slowly and methodically. Every time you move things, you find an air pocket—and someone could be alive in that pocket. Or you could find a grave. I found a baby doll wearing a little blue dress, and there was a brown teddy bear with it. My heart skipped a beat, thinking, “Please don’t let that be a real baby.” All of us are aware that we are looking at the belongings of people who were just as real as our own families. This is a tough job.

Soraya Cohen WIFE OF MISSING RESIDENT BRAD COHEN

They took me to the site, and I saw that the entire apartment collapsed. I no longer think there’s any chance he’s alive.

It’s like a surreal nightmare, especially when I watch the rescue—people digging, smelling the dust. Brad’s a trauma surgeon and tough as nails. . . . Our son doesn’t believe he’s gone. He believes he’s holding on, under the rubble. We have to find him, good or bad, so his soul can have a final resting place.

Reporting by STEVE HELLING, K . C . B A K E R , D I A N E H E R B S T, WENDY GROSSMAN KANTOR,

Missing Per sons

Loved ones posted pictures of the lost on a nearby fence (on June 26), hoping to find them.

S U S A N K E AT I N G , C H R I S T I N E PELISEK and BECKY RANDEL

HOW TO HELP

The NBA’s Miami Heat, along with several other local organizations, have set up a hardship fund to help those affected by the tragedy. To donate, go to supportsurfside.org

July 12, 2021

49

50

Ta m a r Braxton

AFTER DEPRESSION AND THE RELENTLESS GLARE OF CAMERAS PUSHED HER TO THE BRINK, THE SINGER IS F I N A L LY F I N D I N G P E A C E

By J A N I N E R U B E N S T E I N

Photographs by NOLWEN CIFUENTES

July 12, 2021

51

Tamar Braxton is in her happy place, literally. “I’m in my office, where all the magic happens,” she says, seated inside a small, colorfully decorated space in her new Los Angeles home. Pointing around the room, she says, “This is my winning and losing board with my goals. I do my podcast in the corner over here, and there’s a lot of things from my fans, my Tamartians. I get inspiration from all of their gifts.”

The R&B singer, former reality star and host of the podcast Under Construction with Tamar Braxton is determined to surround herself with positive energy. Last July, in the midst of filming her popular WE tv docuseries Tamar Braxton: Get Ya Life!, Braxton, 44, became despondent and attempted suicide.

At the time, she was home with her son Logan (then 7, whom she shares with her ex-husband, music A Big Hit executive Vincent Herbert) and her then-boyfriend, Braxton’s 2013 financial consultant David Adefeso, who found her album Love and War saw major success. unresponsive, and she was rushed to the hospital.

“Music is my first Thinking back to that painful day a year ago, she love,” she says. says, “That time of my life was so dark and so heavy.

I didn’t see how I was going to come out on the other Daytime Drama Braxton earned two side. I didn’t even know that there was another side.

Emmy nominations But I chose to change my life.” cohosting The Real Braxton’s story is one that millions of fans have from 2013 to 2016 before behind-thefollowed for a decade now. The youngest sister and scenes conflicts led former backup singer of superstar Toni Braxton, to her dramatic exit.

54, she grew up singing gospel alongside her siblings under the strict tutelage of their parents, Michael and Evelyn, both religious leaders in their hometown of Severn, Md. Years after Toni’s career took off, Tamar found fame: In 2011 she helped launch her family’s hit WE tv reality series Braxton Family Values, which initially followed the five sisters and their mother.

The show also put Tamar’s talent and larger-than-life L o v e a n d Wa r Onscreen personality on full display.

On Tamar Braxton: Solo music success followed, Get Ya Life! (2020), and her smoky 2012 sinshe and ex-boyfriend gle “Love and War” earned David Adefeso (who found her unresponsive two Grammy nominations. last July) were often Through it all, she continued at odds. They split to film Values and the spinoff later that year.

FAME & FAMILY

52

July 12, 2021

Sisters in the Spotlight

From left: mom Evelyn with daughters and Braxton Family Values costars Trina, Tamar, Toni, Towanda and Traci in 2014.

Finding H e r Vo i c e

The singer (performing in Detroit in 2019) is working on a “therapeutic” new album.

Tamar & Vince with her ex-husband (whom she divorced in 2019) and signed on as a cohost of talk show The Real in 2013.

But the harsh glare of the cameras began to take a toll on her mental health. Despite the confidence she exuded onscreen, she now realizes she’d never fully dealt with having been repeatedly molested as a child, an experience she says was revealed without her consent while taping in 2018. (A WE tv spokesperson declined to comment on Braxton’s most recent statements but noted that her past revelations about childhood sexual abuse never aired and were not discussed on Braxton Family Values.) “How it came out was very traumatic for me,” says Braxton.

She has chosen not to share the particular circumstances of the abuse and has never pursued legal action against the parties involved. “I thought I had successfully buried that part of me, but it was manifesting in different ways,” says Braxton, who was often shown to be on edge and irritable on her shows. “It was coming out in how I dealt with things emotionally, how I looked at situations, how I conducted myself.”

Braxton also started to feel boxed in to an increasingly negative onscreen persona. Things came to a head during the filming of Get Ya Life!, which she says sensationalized her life as a single mom and her admittedly rocky relationship with Adefeso. “After a scene, I’d watch it back, and it would be nothing like how it went down,” says Braxton. “They started piecing words together and sentences. I just thought that wasn’t necessary.” More important, “I wanted to do positive television,” says Braxton, who felt even her family’s show had taken a tonal turn.

In recent years Braxton has been at odds with her sisters and mother, both onscreen and off. When Braxton Family Values launched, “it was about a positive Black family,” she says. “That’s just not what it was anymore.” She says she voiced her concerns to producers, but “I felt ignored. That’s when things really started to go downhill for me.”

The details of July 16, 2020, are still

difficult for Braxton to discuss. “Most people think, ‘Oh, she went to a hotel, probably took a bunch of drugs, was on a binge.’ It didn’t happen like that.

‘I’m not where I was . . . but there’s still work to be done’ —TAMAR BRAXTON

It was just everyday life, trying to figure out how to get through the day and then . . .” She stops short of reliving exactly what happened. What precipitated her darkest moment, she says, was the thought of her son. “I didn’t want to continue being a disappointment for him. How can his friends’ parents respect me if this is what they see every day?

I wouldn’t let my kid go over to a child’s house if this is what was portrayed on television. In my sickness, I thought that if I can take the embarrassment out of his life, maybe he would have a chance to have the best life.” She has gained clarity since: “I know now that that probably would have destroyed him, that the best life that I can set for him is to be the example, get counseling and show him how to communicate.”

Braxton spent a weekend in the hospital before checking herself in to a mental health facility for additional treatment for depression and anxiety brought on by traumatic circumstances. On July 30, she posted on Instagram, “It was only God’s grace and his mercy on my attempt to end my pain and my life that I am here to utilize my voice.” In the days and weeks that followed, she received a wave of support from friends and family, though her

TALKING MENTAL HEALTH In November 2020, the singer launched her podcast Under Construction with Tamar Braxton to shine a light on mental health issues in the Black community, starting with her own. “I’m really excited to uplift people,” she says. “Outside of being this messy person on reality television, this gives my guests an opportunity to get to know Tamar and have a real heart-to-heart and heal out loud.” Favorite episodes thus far include Taraji P. Henson (above), Mo’Nique and Saweetie. Recently she caught up with Destiny’s Child star Michelle Williams, who also suffers from depression.

“When I first got out of the hospital, she was one of the first to reach out to me,” Braxton recalls. “That phone call was life-altering.”

HAIR: KIM KIMBLE/KIM KIMBLE HAIRCARE; MAKEUP: TERRELL MULLIN/ARMANI BEAUTY; STYLIST: ASHLEY SEAN THOMAS; (PREVIOUS SPREAD) DRESS: RETROFETE; (FAMILY) JOHN SHEARER/INVISION/AP/SHUTTERSTOCK; (PERFORMANCE) AARON J. THORNTON/GETTY IMAGES

July 12, 2021

53

Starring Role

Braxton and then-husband Vincent Herbert (with their son Logan, in 2016) took cameras inside their world on WE tv’s Tamar & Vince.

HER SON, HER BIGGEST LOVE

Motherhood Then

“My relationship with my kid was very surface when I was just trying to figure out how to make it to the end of the day,” says Braxton (with Logan in 2018).

54

July 12, 2021

•

How to get help If you or someone you know needs mental health help, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a trained crisis counselor.

DRESS: ALEXANDER WANG; INSETS, FROM TOP: DAVID BUCHAN/SHUTTERSTOCK; MEDIAPUNCH/SHUTTERSTOCK

relationship with Adefeso ended acrimoniously: He filed a restraining-order request against Braxton after an alleged altercation. (It has since expired.)

Reflecting on it all now, she says, “I’m not where I was, but there’s still work to be done.” Wardell Malloy, Braxton’s manager and friend, sees her doing that work: “Tamar is human, with real emotion and real pain. . . . She’s in the process of healing and being the best Scan this QR code with your phone’s Tamar Braxton she can be for camera to hear more herself and her son.” of Tamar Braxton’s And Braxton has vowed to emotional interview on People Every Day. stick with it. “Monday, Wednes-

day and Friday, I am with my life coach, and Tuesdays and Thursdays and Saturdays, I’m with my psychiatrist,” she says.

She is also recording Under Construction, talking to other Motherhood stars in hopes of breaking down Now the stigma surrounding mental Since committing to health. “I have a responsibility,” therapy, “I take the she says. “I chose to live my life time to get to know how his day was,” she out loud; I have to do the work says (with Logan, 8, because people are watching in March 2021). “I’m me.” Only now, she says, they’re involved.” getting to see the real her.

Braxton and her sisters are gradually “mending” their relationship, she says. With a new record deal and album in the works with RCA Inspiration, Braxton, who won Celebrity Big Brother in 2019, isn’t ruling out a return to TV. “I still love television,” she says, “but I’m definitely not ever doing another docuseries about my life.” She’d rather focus on being a mother to her son. “I’m dedicated to being the best mom, the best person I can be,” says Braxton. “I am moving forward.”

‘Now I see the sun more than I see the clouds’ —TAMAR BRAXTON

Celebrate your Independence Days.

With the right financial partner, every day can feel like Independence Day.

EQUAL HOUSING

Member FDIC. ©2021 U.S. Bank

We’ll get there together.

M E U M R S

KRISTIE AND SAM MEWIS

O

S L Y C M P I

TOKYO 2021

Soccer’s Star Sisters

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: BRAD SMITH/ISI PHOTOS/GETTY IMAGES; BRAD SMITH/ISIPHOTOS.COM; COURTESY MEWIS FAMILY

G R O W I N G U P, T H E Y W E R E S I B L I N G R I VA L S O N — A N D O F F —T H E F I E L D . N O W THEY’RE SHARING THEIR O LY M P I C D R E A M C O M E T R U E

G

rowing up in Hanson, Mass., sisters Kristie and Sam Mewis didn’t agree on much. “We were polar opposites,” says Kristie.

“We just couldn’t get along.” But the two shared an enduring passion for soccer, playing together for their local soccer clubs and high school teams and dreaming of one day joining the U.S. women’s national team. “Kristie had a big influence on me from a competitive standpoint,” says Sam. “Growing up, in so many ways, she opened doors and paved the way for me.”

Now the two are blazing a trail together, as U.S. soccer’s first sister duo to compete together in the Olympics. “The only thing that could have made this any better for me was that Kristie made it too,” says Sam, now 28. Adds Kristie, 30: “It’s just surreal that we’re going to the Olympics together.

I couldn’t have done it without her.”

But the road to Tokyo for the sisters, who are both midfielders, wasn’t always easy. Following successful careers in college, both Sam and Kristie made the U.S. national team in 2014. Sam excelled— becoming a World Cup champion in 2019. But Kristie struggled. She was cut from the national

A Ti g h t B o n d

“Now we get to be teammates too,” says Sam (right, with Kristie in 2020).

“And that’s adding a whole other layer of respect.”

Good Sports

“We’d compete nonstop—in the house and on the field,” says Kristie (below, right, with Sam ca. 2000; and, right, in yellow, with Sam during national team training in 2020).

team, and following several difficult years with the NWSL, she tore her ACL in 2018. “It’s a hard spot to be in because you do feel worthless,” says Kristie.

But with Sam’s support, she fought her way back to USWNT last year—she also plays for the Houston Dash—and now on to Tokyo. “Seeing Sam win a World Cup and establish herself on that team was definitely inspiring,” says Kristie. Sam, who lives with her husband, Pat Johnson, in Raleigh, N.C., where she plays for the North Carolina Courage, says she never had any doubt. “I knew whatever Kristie wanted, she was capable of doing,” she says. “We’re made of the same stuff.” Adds Kristie: “I think that’s why we were able to be successful, because we had each other.” — A L E R U S S I A N

July 12, 2021

57

Sweet Victory

“I just kept pushing and pushing no matter how hard it got,” says Blige (pictured in 2018).

MARY J. BLIGE

T H E R & B Q U E E N A N D S TA R O F A R E V E A L I N G N E W D O C U M E N TA RY S H A R E S H E R S TO RY O F T R AU M A , H E A RT B R E A K A N D S U R V I VA L By J A N I N E R U B E N S T E I N (PORTRAIT) JAKE MICHAELS/THE NEW YORK TIMES/REDUX; (KENDU) PRINCE WILLIAMS/FILMMAGIC; (CORA) CHRIS DELMAS/AFP/GETTY IMAGES; ETHAN MILLER/GETTY IMAGES; (GRAMMYS) STR/EPA/SHUTTERSTOCK

T

Throughout her three-decade career, pain has often been Mary J. Blige’s greatest muse. It gave her a voice that provided an R&B soundtrack for the brokenhearted, via big pop, hip-hop and soul hits like “Real Love,” “Not Gon’ Cry” and “No More Drama.” Although her songs gave fans years of entertainment, Blige, 50, sees her talent as a vessel to a deeper calling. “I’m here to go through the pain so somebody else can grow,” she says over Zoom from New York City. “That’s been my job since I was 5 years old.”

She’s now revealing more about the root of the pain that powers her music in her new Amazon Studios documentary My Life, which commemorates her 1994 sophomore album of the same name. In it Blige digs deep into a life that has been rife with turmoil and talks about a brutal sexual assault she suffered when she was just a child and the physically and verbally abusive relationships she’s endured as an adult. “It took me some time to even want to do this documentary,” she says. “But you have to go back to where the trauma came from, and I felt like it’s time to do that.”

Blige still carries physical evidence of her past pain. Although her candid documentary offers a rare glimpse into her private world, she refuses to discuss the distinctive scar under her left eye or offer any details on how she got it. “It’s nobody’s business,” she says. “I can’t. Some things you just can’t. It was that tragic—you just can’t.”

The second of four children born to Cora, a nurse, and Thomas, a jazz musician, Blige grew up in the Schlobohm housing projects of Yonkers, N.Y., where her beginnings were humble and hardscrabble. At 5, she was molested by a family friend, something she didn’t speak about until adulthood. “It was painful to visit that little girl again,” she says, “then to see her as a young adult in the music business going through so much hell.”

Blige received her earliest musical training singing in church, and she was 19 when her career took off, with the help of friend and collaborator Sean

Tough Love Rocky Romance

In the ’90s Blige was in a turbulent relationship with R&B singer Cedric “K-Ci” Hailey (above).

Marital Issues

The singer says she endured verbal abuse during her 15-year marriage to former manager Kendu Isaacs (left).

‘I’m here to go through the pain so someone else can grow’

“Diddy” Combs, who was then the talent director at Uptown Records. “Mary has always evoked so much emotion and honesty in her music,” says Combs. “I knew from the moment the audience heard her truth she would be a star.”

But the success of her 1992 debut album, What’s the 411?, was accompanied by more trauma. In the early ’90s she fell hard for fellow R&B star Cedric “K-Ci” Hailey of the group Jodeci, and Blige says their relationship took a dark turn into physical violence. “My family didn’t really know what was going on,” she recalls. “I was afraid to tell my mother. My sister knew a little bit. My nieces and nephews and some of my family members did not know that I was living in that hell, that we were physically fighting. Nobody knew that the fame had consumed both of us.” In response to Blige’s claims, Hailey tells People, “Watching the My Life documentary, I thanked God, yet again, for helping me mature and leave the boy I was in the past and become the man I am today. Mary and my relationship was indeed tumultuous under the pressure we were experiencing becoming famous. Now, 20-plus years later, I know and like who I am. I’m sober and working on the next stage of my career. I wish Mary all the best and hope that God continues to give her

Surviving Abuse and Finding Success Fa m i l y S u p p o r t

Blige with her mother, Cora, at the taping of VH1’s Dear Mama special event in 2017.

Rough Start

The Yonkers, N.Y., projects where Blige (above at age 13) grew up were “like prison.”

Golden Girl

Blige won three of her nine Grammys in 2007, including Best R&B Album for The Breakthrough.

Soul Sensation Onstage in Las Vegas in 2019.

July 12, 2021

59

TU N E I N 5 N I G H TS A W E E K!

!

V on T Exclusive Pop Culture News

A-List Celebrity Interviews

Real Hero Stories

M E E T Y O UR H O S TS!

WATCH ON THESE STATIONS & PEOPLE.COM ATLANTA

PHOENIX

ST. LOUIS

PORTLAND

NASHVILLE

HARTFORD

KANSAS CITY

GREENVILLE/ SPARTANBURG

LAS VEGAS

MOBILE

FLINT/SAGINAW SPRINGFIELD/ HOLYOKE

Building a Hollywood RŽsumŽ

Respect (2021)

The Umbrella Academy (2019)

The star played a timetraveling assassin named Cha-Cha opposite Cameron Britton on the popular Netflix series.

Power Book II: Ghost (2020)

Mudbound (2017)

“She’s a boss,” Blige has said of her character, Monet, on the Starz series. “She’s a survivor and a single mother.”

Blige (with Carey Mulligan) received Supporting Actress and Original Song Oscar nominations in the period drama.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EVERETT(3); QUANTRELL D. COLBERT; AMAZON STUDIOS

Blige (right) can next be seen portraying singer Dinah Washington in the biopic of Aretha Franklin (played by Jennifer Hudson, left), in theaters Aug. 13.

peace as He continues to do the same for me.”

It was around this time that Blige says she first had suicidal thoughts. But it was seeing the overwhelming fan reaction to her soul-baring multiplatinum second album, My Life, which drew widespread critical acclaim (it made Rolling Stone’s 2003 list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time) that pulled her back from the brink. “All these people were too die-hard and strong and emotional about this album. I believe in my subconscious I was like, ‘Oh, I can’t kill myself now. I’ve got to thug this out. I’ve got to push through.’ ” Substances had become a coping mechanism for Blige, who recalls drinking as a teen to escape her pain. “I did all kinds of drugs and alcohol to quiet down the ‘You’ll never, you’re not this, you’re horrible. It was all your fault.’

It was years and years of that.”

Despite those demons, her career continued to flourish, and in the early 2000s she became romantically involved with her former manager Kendu Isaacs, whom she married in 2003. She doesn’t go into detail about her road to recovery,

‘I’ve been through some of the worst stuff you can think of’ Bringing Her Life to the Screen

“I had to do it because the My Life album was extremely important to millions of people, millions of fans,” Blige says of her new Amazon Studios documentary My Life (now streaming).

but while she was with him, she found the inner strength to tame her addictions. Sadly her happiness with Isaacs didn’t last. Blige divorced him in 2018 and now says she came close to walking away from music while facing verbal abuse from him. “I was being told that I was washed up and I’m fat and old and my fans don’t like [me] no more. I began to believe some of these things. I was looking in the mirror saying, ‘Yeah, maybe I am done. Maybe I’m not as pretty as whatever he wants.’ ” A random fan encounter boosted both her professional and personal confidence. “I ran into a woman, and she was like, ‘Please don’t stop doing what you’re doing,’ ” Blige recalls. “It helped me realize that this person was trying to take away everything that he didn’t even give me.”

Today Blige remains one of music’s most enduring stars, and with big TV gigs on Starz’ Power Book II: Ghost and Netflix’s The Umbrella Academy, as well as an Oscar-nominated turn in the 2017 film Mudbound and a role as soul great Dinah Washington in the upcoming Aretha Franklin biopic Respect, out Aug. 13, she’s been segueing seamlessly into screen stardom. For now, though, love will have to wait. Although she’s currently single (“I do not reject love, but marriage is something I’m not feeling right now,” she says), she’s cautiously optimistic about the future. “I have to fight for my freedom and happiness every single day,” Blige admits. “I feel good. I feel content. I don’t feel like, ‘Oh, everything is excellent,’ I just feel content in knowing that life is going to have challenges still, but I can face my challenges because I have developed some love for myself.”

•

July 12, 2021

61

WHAT COFFEE IS MEANT TO BE

FOOD STYLIST: RISHON HANNERS; PROP STYLIST: CLAIRE SPOLLEN

During a year in which dining habits seemed to have permanently evolved (and cooking fatigue definitely set in), breaking out of the eating-at-home rut was more important than ever. With People staffers, family and friends scattered across the country—from twentysomethings in tiny city apartments to large families in the suburbs and everyone in between— we prepared and taste-tested hundreds of new supermarket items and crowned a crop of winners that are delicious enough to earn a spot on your plate.

By S O N A L D U T T

Photographs by J E N N I F E R C A U S E Y July 12, 2021

63

food The Winners!

BREAKFAST FOODS Ri se an d shin e! G et yo u r m ornin g off t o a sa t is fy ing st ar t with the se five-star p ick s

Best Pancake Mix

King Arthur Baking Buttermilk Pancake Mix Just add water for light and fluffy flapjacks every time.

“My search for the perfect pancake is over!” declared one staffer. $5 for 16 oz.

Best Cereal

K e l l o g g ’s Raisin Bran To a s t e d O a t s & Honey “Even my picky son went back for a second bowl,” a staffer said about this mix of hearty flakes, plump raisins and crispy oats. $4 for 15.6 oz.

Best Granola

Lärabar Pe a n u t B u t t e r Chocolate Chip This granola bar in a bowl is a salty-and-sweet mix of peanuts, oats, puffed rice and mini chocolate chips. $7 for 22.7 oz.

Best Bagels

Aldi Specially Selected Brioche Bagels Testers gave the mashup of sweet brioche bread and a traditional bagel high marks for its “delightfully chewy crust” and “pillowy soft” center. $3 for 5

Best Flavored Cereal

Best Sliced Bread

Arnold Country Style Butter Bread Described as “an airy cloud with a subtle sweetness,” the slices have a soft texture but won’t fall apart when holding together a hefty sandwich. $4.50

64

July 12, 2021

TIP FROM THE TEST KITCHEN

Make Bagel French Toast We’re officially declaring it the next breakfast craze. Let brioche bagels sit out uncovered overnight to get a little stale, then soak them in your favorite French toast custard (eggs, sugar, milk and cinnamon should do the trick).

Cook them in a skillet with melted butter and serve with warm maple syrup.

(LARABAR SPILL) ANTONIS ACHILLEOS; (DUNKIN’ CEREAL) POST CONSUMER BRANDS

Po s t Du n k i n ’ Mocha Latte Made with real coffee, its “bold chocolate and espresso flavor” and latte-swirled marshmallows were a hit with testers. $4 for 17 oz.

I feel

t h g i e w t u o b a h t u r t e h t y b I just learned that losing 5%-15% of my weight can improve some weightrelated conditions, like osteoarthritis and type 2 diabetes. Now I’m even more determined to take control of my health. Understanding why my body regains weight can help me choose a weightmanagement plan with my health care provider.

Get the truth today— so you can make a plan for tomorrow

Learn more at TruthAboutWeight.com

Truth About Weight® and Novo Nordisk are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. ©2021 Novo Nordisk Printed in the U.S.A. US20OB00266 January 2021

Re al ch oc ol a

Re al al m . ds on

y e t

. s s e n d o go

w a r berries t s l a e R .

Who said doing something good for yourself had to be hard?

Do what’s

food Best Candy

The Winners!

SNACKS

Keep a st ash in you r cup boa rd or de sk d rawe r to cure a ny cr aving Best Tortilla Chips

Late July Organic Jalapeño & Lime Made for dipping, they’re thin, crispy and “pleasantly corny” with a hit of heat at the end. $4.50 for 11 oz.

Best Nuts

Blue Diamond Xtremes Cayenne Pepper Almonds “It’s hard not to eat the whole can!” one staffer said about the fiery—but not scorching hot— roasted nuts. $3.50 for 6 oz.

(SKITTLES, BLUE DIAMOND, & LAY’S SPILLS, JUSTINE’S) ANTONIS ACHILLEOS(4)

Best Popcorn

Orville R e d e n b a c h e r ’s Made with Avocado Oil Buttery without “that greasy coating you expect from microwave,” the kernels popped up “mega-fluffy.” $4 for 5 bags

Skittles Gummies “No offense to the bears, but these are next level,” a tester said of the soft, fruity buttons with a “highly satisfying chew.” $2 for 5.8 oz.

Pe p p e r i d g e Fa r m Fa r m h o u s e Thin & Crispy B u t t e r Pe c a n The chunky nuts, delightful snap and “big butter flavor” had testers raving: “I devoured them like Cookie Monster!” $4 for 5.9 oz.

Best Snack Mix

Best Potato Chips

Chex Mix White Cheddar It’s an “addictive” combo of pretzels, rye chips, cereal and breadsticks— amped up with a savory cheese seasoning. $3 for 3.75 oz.

Best Crackers

To w n H o u s e B l a c k Pe p p e r Dipping Thins Whether dunked in dip or eaten straight out of the box, the peppery, paddleshaped crackers got high marks for crispiness. $4 for 9 oz.

Whatchamacallit Whozeewhatzit The name is a tongue twister, but reactions to the layers of peanut butter cream, puffed rice and chocolate are easy to understand: “Wowzeeyum!” said a tester. $1 for 1.7 oz. bar

L a y ’s Po p p a b l e s S e a S alt & Vinegar “Such magical little pops of crispy goodness!” a staffer gushed of the “perfectly balanced” bites. $4 for 5 oz.

Best Peanut Butter Cup

J u s t i n ’s D a r k C h o c o l a t e C r i s p y Pe a n u t B u t t e r Cu p s The “exceptional chocolate” and “unbelievably creamy center” are elevated by a topping of puffed quinoa. $2 for 2

Best Multigrain Chips

SunChips Chili Lime They start out with a zesty, citrus kick and follow with a super-mild heat that testers couldn’t resist. $3.29 for 7 oz.

Best Spicy Snack

Best Chocolate Bar

Best Cookie

Planters Blazin’ Hot Cheez Balls The lava-red, mega-hot spheres may look intimidating, but they still have that nostalgic cheesy crunch. $2.50 for 2.75 oz.

2,059 total number of products submitted

Best Noodles

Best Seasoning Mix

Dash Everything but the Salt Seasoning Blend Sesame and poppy seeds, garlic and onion— they’re all in there! Just add salt to taste (or don’t!) to make it your own. $3 for 2.6 oz.

The Winners!

PANTRY STAPLES A sm ar t, ful ly stocke d k itc hen ma ke s m ea ltime pre p a bre eze

Best Soup

A m y ’s O r g a n i c To r t i l l a S o u p “Don’t tell my Mexican mom, but this tastes homemade,” a tester said of the stew of tomatoes, bell peppers, black beans and sweet potatoes. $3 for 14.2 oz.

Best Baking Chips

N e s t l é To l l House Chocolate Peanut Caramel Morsels & More Chocolate chip cookies go from good to “bonkersdelish” with this trio of peanuts, caramel and choco chunks. $4 for 8 oz.

Best Beans

B u s h ’s Sidekicks Rustic Tu s c a n y Slow-simmered in a bright tomato and Italian-herb sauce, the chickpeas pop with flavor. $2 for 15.5 oz.

Best Cake Mix

F u n f e t t i Va n i l l a Premium Cake Mix with Oreo Cookie Pieces Funfetti gets even more fun when it’s combined with chocolate-andcream cookies and baked into a “moist and light” cake. $2 for 15.25 oz.

Best Rice

Banza Garlic Olive Oil Rice Testers praised the “flavorful but not salty” spice mix and “fluffy, al dente” kernels made from chickpeas.

Bonus: It cooks in just 5 minutes! $4 for 7 oz.

Best Tomato Sauce

Carbone Arrabbiata Based on the recipe served at Carbone restaurants, the sauce is “bursting with fresh tomato flavor” and packs “the right level of heat.” $9 for 24 oz.

68

July 12, 2021

Tr a d e r J o e ’s Thai Wheat Noodles Testers appreciated the springy noodles for their versatility— from simmering in miso broth to stirfrying into pad Thai. $2.29 for 21 oz.

Best Pasta

Barilla Red Lentil Spaghetti Even skeptics were bowled over by the firm texture—“It didn’t get mushy like other vegetable pastas”—and delicate flavor that “didn’t clash with the sauce.” $3 for 8.8 oz.

Best Creamer

Unlocked by Coffee Mate Classic Colombian Designed to cut bitterness and accentuate flavors in java, it “helped my coffee taste like its best self,” said a tester. $4 for 32 oz.

Best Flatbread

Stonefire Garlic Mini Naan Made with buttermilk, ghee and fire-roasted garlic, the puffy, lightly charred rounds fit nicely in the toaster. $4 for 4

TIP FROM THE TEST KITCHEN

Bake Naan Pizzas Soft, pillowy naan makes great individual pizza crusts. Spread on a thin layer of sauce, add your favorite toppings, and then pop it into a 450° F oven for 6 to 8 minutes for an almost-instant meal.

food The Winners!

CONDIMENTS & SPREADS Move ove r, ketchu p : T h es e ste l la r p roduc ts will tra nsf o rm a d i sh with on e pour, s quir t o r s me a r Best Dressing

P. F C h a n g ’s Signature Vinaigret te With a hint of fresh mango, it’s “dynamite” on salad—or drizzled into stir-fries, on cold Asian noodles or over seared salmon. $4 for 16 oz.

Best Ranch

H e l l m a n n ’s Jalapeño Ranch Drizzle Sauce “I could drink it with a straw!” a tester exclaimed about the “dreamy-creamy” sauce with a mild chili kick. $3.50 for 9 oz.

151

testers from 36 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico

Best Mayonnaise

Tr u f f B l a c k Tr u f f l e M a y o n n a i s e Made with eggs, sunflower oil and real winter truffles (no synthetic stuff here!), it makes BLTs, burgers and potato salad even better. $10 for 8 oz.

Best Cookie Butter

365 by Whole Fo o d s M a r k e t Organic Cookie Butter Testers admitted to eating the sweet spread—made from pulverized spice cookies— straight from the jar. $6 for 12.3 oz.

Best Jam

M u r r a y ’s Strawberry Rhubarb Preserves Designed to be paired with cheese (like triple créme or mascarpone), the fruit-forward jelly is also excellent slathered on a PB&J. $8 for 10 oz.

(DASH, NESTLE, & BANZA SPILLS, CARBONE) ANTONIS ACHILLEOS(4)

Best Dipping Sauce

Heinz Honeyracha Adult and kid testers praised the blend of sweet honey and spicy sriracha: “My son put it on everything— nuggets, fries and spring rolls.” $4 for 20.2 oz.

Best Hot Sauce

Old Bay Hot Sauce This combo of cayenne, vinegar and classic Old Bay seasoning sold out online the day it launched!

Don’t worry, it’s back in stock now. $3.50 for 10 oz.

July 12, 2021

69

food

The Winners!

DRINKS See the super ior s ips that mad e a s plash i n ou r tast e tests

Best Coconut Water

Vita Coco Pressed C o c o n u t Wa t e r “It’s like I’m drinking it straight out of a coconut!” a staffer raved about its refreshing and “super coconut-y” taste. $5 for 1 liter

The Winners!

FRIDGE & FROZEN Take the night off: These foods are quick alternatives to a home-cooked meal Best Dip

Deep Indian Kitchen Chicken Vindaloo Tender, juicy chunks of chicken are simmered in a slightly spicy, vinegartinged sauce and served with turmeric basmati rice. $5.50 for 9 oz.

Best Pizza

DiGiorno Pe p p e ro n i Croissant Crust Pizza The pie’s flaky, “gloriously puffy” crust had testers raving. “My kids now only ask for ‘proissant’ on pizza night,” said one staffer. $7.50

Best Dumplings

Best Vegetables

Green Giant Zucchini Garlic & Parmesan Ve g g i e F r i e s “I can’t wait to eat these again!” a tester gushed about the crispy, well-seasoned fries. $4 for 12 oz.

Tr o p i c a n a Premium Drinks Piña Colada A sweet combination of pineapple, lime and coconut flavors, it’s a nod to the popular tropical cocktail—minus the rum. $3 for 52 oz.

Best Coffee

Starbucks Dark Roast Premium Instant Coffee With a deep toasty flavor, it brews up strong, smooth and balanced—and without any acidic aftertaste. $10 for 3.17 oz.

TIP FROM THE TEST KITCHEN

Boost the Flavor Add a small spoonful of ground instant coffee to your go-to brownie recipe or boxed chocolate cake mix.

You won’t be able to taste the coffee, but it will make the whole dessert taste richer and more chocolaty.

(GREEN GIANT SPILL) ANTONIS ACHILLEOS

July 12, 2021

Best Frozen Dinner

Fr a n k ’s R e d H o t Buffalo Style Chicken Dip Melty, creamy and “the perfect level of heat,” it warms up in just 3 minutes. “It’ll be a staple during football season,” said a tester. $6 for 11 oz.

Nasoya Korean B B Q Ve g e t a b l e Dumplings Steamed, pan fried or zapped in the microwave, the veggie- and tofu-filled bites have excellent bulgogi flavor. $5 for 9 oz.

70

Best Juice

POWER UP AGAINST PEANUT ALLERGY WITH PALFORZIA PALFORZIA, the first and only FDA-approved treatment for peanut allergy, is a daily oral therapy that helps reduce the severity of allergic reactions to peanuts that may be hidden in foods.

LEARN MORE AT PALFORZIA.COM

For children aged 4 through 17 WHAT IS PALFORZIA? PALFORZIA is a treatment for people who are allergic to peanuts. PALFORZIA can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, that may occur with accidental exposure to peanut. PALFORZIA may be started in patients aged 4 through 17 years old. If you turn 18 years of age while on PALFORZIA treatment you should continue taking PALFORZIA unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

PALFORZIA does NOT treat allergic reactions and should not be given during an allergic reaction.

You must maintain a strict peanut-free diet while taking PALFORZIA.

You should NOT take PALFORZIA if you have uncontrolled asthma, or if you ever had eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) or other eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease.

Tell your doctor if you are not feeling well prior to starting treatment with PALFORZIA. Your doctor may decide to delay treatment until you are feeling better. Also tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have and if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription and herbal supplements.

Your doctor may decide that PALFORZIA is not the best treatment if:

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

• You are unwilling or unable to receive (or self-administer) injectable epinephrine.

PALFORZIA can cause severe allergic reactions called anaphylaxis that may be life-threatening.

• You have a condition or are taking a medication that reduces the ability to survive a severe allergic reaction.

• You will receive your first dose in a healthcare setting under the observation of trained healthcare staff.

• You will receive the first dose of all dose increases in a healthcare setting.

• In the healthcare setting, you will be observed for at least 1 hour for signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.

• If you have a severe reaction during treatment, you will need to receive an injection of epinephrine immediately and get emergency medical help right away.

• You will return to the healthcare setting for any trouble tolerating your home doses.

Stop taking PALFORZIA and get emergency medical treatment right away if you have any of the following symptoms after taking PALFORZIA: • • • • • • • • •

Trouble breathing or wheezing Chest discomfort or tightness Throat tightness Trouble swallowing or speaking Swelling of your face, lips, eyes, or tongue Dizziness or fainting Severe stomach cramps or pain, vomiting, or diarrhea Hives (itchy, raised bumps on skin) Severe flushing of the skin

Because of the risk of severe allergic reactions, PALFORZIA is only available through a restricted program called the PALFORZIA Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Program. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information about the PALFORZIA REMS program and how to enroll.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF PALFORZIA? The most commonly reported side effects of PALFORZIA were: stomach pain, vomiting, feeling sick, itching or burning in the mouth, throat irritation, cough, runny nose, sneezing, throat tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, itchy skin, hives, and/or itchy ears.

PALFORZIA can cause severe allergic reactions called anaphylaxis that may be life-threatening.

PALFORZIA can cause stomach or gut symptoms including inflammation of the esophagus (called eosinophilic esophagitis).

Symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis can include: • • • • • •

Trouble swallowing Food stuck in throat Burning in chest, mouth, or throat Vomiting Regurgitation of undigested food Feeling sick

For additional information on the possible side effects of PALFORZIA, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see a Brief Summary of the full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including an Important Warning about anaphylaxis, on the following page. © 2021 Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc. PALFORZIA is a trademark of Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc. AIMT-PM-USA-0784 06/21

IMPORTANT FACTS This is only a brief summary of important information about PALFORZIA and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and treatment. For complete product information, please see full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide, at www.PALFORZIA.com.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PALFORZIA? PALFORZIA can cause severe allergic reactions called anaphylaxis that may be life-threatening.

• You will receive your first dose in a healthcare setting under the observation of trained healthcare staff.

• You will receive the first dose of all dose increases in a healthcare setting.

• In the healthcare setting, you will be observed for at least 1 hour for signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.

• If you have a severe reaction during treatment, you will need to receive an injection of epinephrine immediately and get emergency medical help right away.

• You will return to the healthcare setting for any trouble tolerating your home doses.

Stop taking PALFORZIA and get emergency medical treatment right away if you have any of the following symptoms after taking PALFORZIA: Trouble breathing or wheezing; Chest discomfort or tightness; Throat tightness; Trouble swallowing or speaking; Swelling of your face, lips, eyes, or tongue; Dizziness or fainting; Severe stomach cramps or pain, vomiting, or diarrhea; Hives (itchy, raised bumps on skin); Severe flushing of the skin.

For home administration of PALFORZIA, your doctor will prescribe injectable epinephrine, a medicine you must inject if you have a severe allergic reaction after taking PALFORZIA. Your doctor will train and instruct you on the proper use of injectable epinephrine.

Talk to your doctor and read the epinephrine patient information if you have any questions about the use of injectable epinephrine.

PALFORZIA is only available through a restricted program called the PALFORZIA Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Program. Before you can receive PALFORZIA, you must: • Enroll in this program.

• Receive education about the risk of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) by a healthcare provider who practices in a setting that is certified through the REMS program.

• Understand that you will be monitored in a healthcare setting during and after the Initial Dose Escalation and for the first dose of each Up-Dosing level.

• Receive education about how to maintain a peanut-free diet. You must attest that you will continue to avoid peanuts at all times.

• Fill the prescription your healthcare provider gives you for the injectable epinephrine. You must attest that epinephrine will be available to you at all times.

Talk to your healthcare provider for more information about the PALFORZIA REMS program and how to enroll.

WHAT IS PALFORZIA? PALFORZIA is a prescription medicine derived from peanuts. It is a treatment for people who are allergic to peanuts. PALFORZIA can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, that may occur with accidental exposure to peanut. PALFORZIA may be started in patients aged 4 through 17 years old.

If you turn 18 years of age while on PALFORZIA treatment you should continue taking PALFORZIA unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

PALFORZIA does NOT treat allergic reactions and should not be given during an allergic reaction. You must maintain a strict peanut-free diet while taking PALFORZIA. WHO SHOULD NOT TAKE PALFORZIA? You should NOT take PALFORZIA if: • You have uncontrolled asthma.

• You ever had eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) or other eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease.

WHAT SHOULD I TELL MY DOCTOR BEFORE TAKING PALFORZIA? Tell your doctor if you are not feeling well prior to starting treatment with PALFORZIA. Your doctor may decide to delay treatment until you are feeling better. Also tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have. You should tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription and herbal supplements. Keep a list of them and show it to your doctor and pharmacist each time you get a new supply of PALFORZIA. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Your doctor may decide that PALFORZIA is not the best treatment if: • You are unwilling or unable to receive (or self-administer) injectable epinephrine.

• You have a condition or are taking a medication that reduces the ability to survive a severe allergic reaction.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF PALFORZIA? The most commonly reported side effects were: stomach pain, vomiting, feeling sick, itching or burning in the mouth, throat irritation, cough, runny nose, sneezing, throat tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, itchy skin, hives, and/or itchy ears.

PALFORZIA can cause severe allergic reactions that may be life-threatening. Symptoms of allergic reactions to PALFORZIA can include: Trouble breathing or wheezing; Chest discomfort or tightness; Throat tightness or swelling; Trouble swallowing or speaking; Swelling of your face, lips, eyes, or tongue; Dizziness or fainting; Severe stomach cramps or pain, vomiting, or diarrhea; Skin rash, itching, or raised bumps on skin; Severe flushing of the skin.

PALFORZIA can cause stomach or gut symptoms including inflammation of the esophagus (called eosinophilic esophagitis). Symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis can include: Trouble swallowing; Food stuck in throat; Burning in chest, mouth, or throat; Vomiting; Regurgitation of undigested food; Feeling sick.

For additional information on the possible side effects of PALFORZIA, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. You may report side effects to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Manufactured by: Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc. Brisbane, CA 94005 © 2020 Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc. PALFORZIA is a trademark of Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc. Based on PALF-US-v1.0, 01/2020

AIMT-PM-USA-0479 07/20

DRINKS

food continued Best Green Tea

$4.60

Lipton Matcha Latte Powd e r You can’t mess this up!

Simply add the presweetened powder to hot or cold milk, and stir until dissolved. $4 for 12 servings

the average price of all the winners

Best Flavored Tea

(POM, CHOBANI, CATHEDRAL CITY; LIPTON & ORGANIC VALLEY SPILLS) ANTONIS ACHILLEOS(5)

Po m Antioxidant Po m e g ra n a t e O ra n g e B l o s s o m W h i t e Te a Looks like juice, but the bright citrus fruits let the floral tea notes shine. $2 for 12 oz.

Best Sparkling Water

Pe r r i e r Pineapple Carbonated M i n e r a l Wa t e r It won high marks for the “soft bubbles” and subtlebut-refreshing pineapple flavor. $6.50 for 10 Best Cold Brew

Chobani Cold Brew Pure Black Coffee Described as “creamy, faintly chocolaty and rich-tasting,” the brew is ready to drink right out of the carton. $4.50 for 32 oz.

The Winners!

DAIRY

From a b old c heese to a su r p r is i ng desser t, th es e cre a ms cer tain ly r is e to t he top

Best Cheese Block

Cathedral City Cheddar Extra Mature Both crumbly and “lusciously creamy” with a sharp, buttery taste, “it’s just begging to be put in a grilled cheese!” testers said. $5.50 for 7 oz.

Best Shredded Cheese

O r g a n i c Va l l e y Thick Cut Shredded Mozzarella Whether sprinkled on pizza or stuffed in a sandwich, the hearty shreds got high marks for taste and melting. $5.50 for 6 oz.

Best SingleServe Dessert

Philadelphia Cheesecake Crumble It’s sweet, tangy and topped with crunchy graham cracker bits. One tester proclaimed it “better than real cheesecake.” $4 for 2-pack

Best Butter

Kerrygold Irish Butter with Olive Oil “This is the new king of butters!” a staffer raved, noting its rich flavor and smooth, spreadable texture—even right out of the fridge. $4 for 7.5 oz.

Best Cream Cheese

T i l l a m o o k Fa r m s t y l e Chive & Onion Cream Cheese Spread Studded with flecks of scallion and dehydrated onion, the thick schmear is “exactly what you want on your morning bagel,” said a tester. $4 for 7 oz.

Best Flavored Yogurt

Oui Oatmeal & Yo g u r t i n Caramelized Banana This portable parfait has layers of oatmeal, chopped fruit and yogurt in a reusable glass pot. $1.69 for 5 oz.

July 12, 2021

73

food

The Winners!

MEAT &S E A F O O D

Co oke d in th e kitch en o r o ut on the gr ill , t hes e prot ein- p acke d favorites have endless possibilities

Best Meatballs

A p p l e g a t e We l l C a r v e d O r g a n i c Mediterranean Style Meatballs Made with dark-meat turkey, lentils, feta cheese and spinach, they heat up plump and juicy, testers said. $7 for 10 Best Tuna

Starkist Creations Microwavables Tuna Latin Citrus Tossed in a zesty lime and jalapeño sauce, the medley of tuna, quinoa, beans and corn is ready to eat in 30 seconds. $2 for 4.5 oz.

Best Chicken

Ty s o n S i m p l y R o a s t e d Fa j i t a Chicken Breast Strips Take a shortcut! The “perfectly seasoned,” fully cooked chicken will help you master the 15-minute dinner. $4.50 for 9 oz.

75

number of winners that cost less than $10 (yes, that’s all of them!)

Best Breakfast Sausage

Niman Ranch Smoked Bacon Uncured Breakfast Sausage “Outstanding in every way!” a staffer said of these heat-and-eat links made with applewood-smoked bacon. $6 for 8 oz.

Best Turkey

Butterball Simple Seasonings P e s t o P a r m e s a n C r u s t e d Tu r k e y “I felt like a real chef,” said a tester, who raved about the tasty seasoning, thinly cut fillets and easy-to-follow directions. $8 for 1 lb.

Best Pepperoni

Hormel Pe p p e ro n i Cup n’ Crisp When cooked, the pepperoni curl up and brown on the edges— reminding many of a favorite pizzeria.

Gushed a tester: “Amaaaaazing!” $4.50 for 5 oz.

Best Hot Dog

Ball Park Fully Loaded Nacho Cheese Franks Filled with cheddar, the franks have great snap and a subtle nacho flavor that pairs well with classic condiments. $5 for 15 oz.

Best Pork

H i l l s h i r e Fa r m B e e r B r a t w u r s t After grilling, the compliments rolled in: “Well-seasoned,” “Malty and moist” and “Five-star sausage!” $5 for 19 oz.

July 12, 2021

75

food

The Winners!

P L A N T- BA S E D It’s n ot just for veg a ns a ny m ore!

T hese groc eries will m a ke ea t i ng les s me at a nd da ir y m u ch ea s i e r Best DairyFree Dressing

H i d d e n Va l l e y P l a n t Powe re d Ranch Testers were impressed with how creamy, zesty and “close to the classic sauce” it tasted. $3.50 for 12 oz.

Best Meat-Free Nuggets

Incogmeato C h i k ’n N u g g e t s “My chickenobsessed children gobbled them up—and then asked for more!” reported one tester. $6.50 for 13.5 oz.

Best Meat-Free Burger

Beyond Burger With ingredients like peas and brown rice, this new blend is juicier and more beeflike than before. “My meat-eating friends had a hard time telling the difference,” said a tester. $6 for 8 oz.

Best Alternative Milk

Best Vegan Cheese

Best Dairy-Free Yogurt

Oatly Oatgurt Mixed Berry Swirl together the “thick” oat-milk base and “juicy” medley of raspberries, blueberries and strawberries for a healthy snack. $2 for 5 oz.

76

July 12, 2021

Daiya American Style Slices While other dairyfree cheeses felt gritty, the smooth texture and “gooey melting” won over our testers. $5 for 7.8 oz.

Kind Frozen Pistachio Pint Staffers were “delightfully shocked” and “fully fooled” by its soft creaminess and indulgent flavor—made without a drop of dairy. $6

TIP FROM THE TEST KITCHEN

Try a Simple Swap In dessert recipes that don’t call for baking—like pudding, buttercream and mousse—oat milk can be used interchangeably with whole milk for that same silky-smooth texture.

(KIND, HIDDEN VALLEY SPILL, OATLY, DAIYA) ANTONIS ACHILLEOS(5)

Califia Fa r m s Va n i l l a Oatmilk With a mild, clean taste and pourable—but not watery—texture, it’s “just waiting to be dunked with a cookie.” $6 for 48 oz.

Best PlantBased Ice Cream

ALL NEW

from People Magazine

Claim our best deal anywhere ...

#210249

food

Best Ice Cream Bar

The Winners!

FROZEN DESSERTS

Magnum Mini Dark Chocolate Tr u f f l e B a r s “I hid the box from my husband so I wouldn’t have to share—and I’d do it again!” a tester admitted after sampling the darkchocolate ice cream with ganache swirls cloaked in a decadent chocolate shell. $4 for 6

Wh ethe r ea t en i n a con e, on a st ick or w it h a spoon , thes e sweet t rea t s a re si m ply to o c oo l t o mi s s Best Ice Cream

B e n & J e r r y ’s To p p e d Whiskey Biz No extra toppings needed! This over-thetop combo of brownbutter bourbon ice cream, blondie chunks and whiskey-caramel sauce is covered with white chocolate ganache and white fudge. $5 for 15.2 oz.

Best Novelty

M&M’S Mint Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich It’s three desserts in one: a thick patty of mint ice cream smashed between two candy-studded, chocolate fudge cookies. $4 for 4

Best Cake

(MAGNUM BAR) ANTONIS ACHILLEOS; (MAGNUM PACKAGE) MAGNUM ICE CREAM; (BREYERS) BREYERS

122

the total number of times the word “yum” appeared on testers’ scoring sheets

Martha Stewart Kitchen Carrot Cake Packed with shredded carrots and pecans, the moist spiced cake is slathered in tangy cream cheese frosting.

Just thaw and slice! $10 Best Light Ice Cream

Breyers CarbSmart Chocolate Chocolate Chip Although it clocks in at only 3 grams of sugar per serving, the low-calorie treat “really satisfies.” $3

Best Baked Treat

L e v a i n B a k e r y F r o z e n Tw o C h i p Chocolate Chip Cookies Crispy on the outside and “gooey on the inside,” the fully baked cookies—made with dark and semisweet chips—take just 5 minutes in the oven. $10 for 8

C o n t r i b u t o r s A N A C A L D E R O N E , M A D I S O N R O B E R T S a n d S H AY S P E N C E

July 12, 2021

79

Feed the good. ™

Dogs bring out the good in us.

Pedigree brings out the good in them™.

Pedigree.com

DO YOU HAVE THE WORLD’S CUTEST RESCUE DOG? PEOPLE WANTS TO TURN YOUR FURRY FRIEND INTO A STAR! TO ENTER

WORLD’S CUTEST RESCUE DOG CONTEST PRESENTED BY

Upload a photo of your adorable adopted dog to people.com/ rescuedogcontest, then tell us how saving your pooch has changed your life—and theirs.

Don’t forget to give a shout-out to the rescue organization or animal shelter that helped you find your canine companion. Dogs of all shapes, sizes and ages are welcome. Enter June 30 through Aug. 11. Our editors will select 10 finalists. Readers will vote to narrow down the pool to the top three, and the winner will be chosen by People, Pedigree and celebrity judges Lindsey Vonn and Megan Hilty.

TH E GRA ND-PR I ZE WI NNER WIL L RECEI VE

• A custom photo shoot • A feature in People magazine and on people.com • A year’s supply of dog food from the Pedigree brand • A $1,000 donation to the pet-rescue organization of the winner’s choice The World’s Cutest Rescue Dog will be revealed this October.

(LAMB CHOP) SHARON VANORNY

LAST YEAR’S WINNER!

Scan this smart code to enter your rescue dog now!

Lamb Chop, a 12-lb. Maltese, triumphed over 10,000 entries to win 2020’s contest. Saved from a puppy mill, she “has an amazing joy for life,” says her owner Christin Schubert of Wisconsin.

Void where prohibited. See website for official rules.

Pedigree & rosette logo are trademarks of Mars or affiliates.

81

e Your guid ewest to all the n need things you ist. to feel A-L

promotion

S P OT L I G H T

J U LY

Bacon The Wright Way® At Wright® Brand, we give you 1–½ pounds of hand-trimmed, thick-cut, real-wood smoked bacon because we do bacon the Wright Way® wrightbrand.com

INSIDERS

WORLD’S CUTEST RESCUE DOG CONTEST PRESENTED BY

YourTicket to All Things Entertainment

Your Pup Could Be Crowned Cutest Dog! Enter your adopted canine into PEOPLE’s World’s Cutest Rescue Dog Contest Presented by Pedigree for a chance to win a PEOPLE magazine feature and more. people.com/rescuedogcontest

SHOP BACK TO CLASS ESSENTIALS Get back to class and get ultra organized with savings on essentials and decor from The Home Depot.

Shop homedepot.com/backtoclass

Experience a New Level of Access Interact with editors. Try new products.

Go to exclusive events. Receive special offers from our sponsors. peopleinsiders.com/join

style

It’s Sandal Season!

TRY THE SUMMER’S HOTTEST STYLES IN GO-WITH-EVERYTHING NEUTRAL COLORS

BUCKLED

Jamie Chung in Mystique Sandals on May 6.

The classic double strap gets a chic update with metallic accents.

Anim a print l jazze s a bas up outfi ic t.

Aqua, $128;

Birkenstock, $115;

bloomingdales.com

PADDED

dickssportinggoods.com

Kenneth Cole New York, $75; kennethcole.com

These soft slides are a sophisticated take on the trendy pillow sandals.

oles s k r Da hese t e k ma dayd o o a g night to- on. opti

Mark Fisher LTD, $100;

Zara, $50;

nordstrom.com

LACE-UP

Sophie Tu r n e r in Bottega Ve n e t a o n M a y 1 9.

zara.com

francosarto.com

This strappy style combines the comfort of a flat with the dressiness of a heel.

Sam Edelman, $110;

J.Crew, $138;

samedelman.com

(TURNER) BACKGRID

Franco Sarto, $110;

H o t We a t hse r Fo o t Ti p From Dr. Jennifer A. Stein, dermatologist at NYU Langone Health

By SARAH BALL

Express, $40;

jcrew.com

Apply Sunscreen

Cover your feet with an SPF 30 or higher before you put on your sandals so you don’t miss the areas next to the straps. People’s Pick: Bask SPF 30 Lotion, $28; basksuncare.com

express.com

Tr e a t B l i s t e r s

Slap on a hydrocolloid bandage, which provides some cushioning while the wound heals. People’s Pick: Welly Blister Blaster Finger & Toe Protection, $10; getwelly.com

Sophia Bush in lace-up sandals on J u n e 1 9.

Stay Fresh

To reduce sweating, swipe antiperspirant on your soles. A deodorizing spray fights odor. People’s Pick: Barefoot Scientist Twinkle Toes Spray, $16; barefootscientist.com

July 12, 2021

83

DID YOU FILE A CLAIM AGAINST PURDUE PHARMA AS PART OF ITS BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING? DO YOU HAVE A CLAIM AGAINST PURDUE PHARMA’S OWNERS? A Hearing to Consider Confirmation of the Chapter 11 Plan May Affect Your Rights.

CONFIRMATION HEARING AUGUST 9, 2021 WHAT IS THIS ABOUT? On June 3, 2021, as part of Purdue Pharma L.P.’s bankruptcy proceedings, the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York entered an order called the “Disclosure Statement Order” that:

The Confirmation Hearing may be extended and rescheduled by the Court or the Debtors without further notice by an agenda filed with the Court, and/ or by a Notice of Adjournment filed with the Court and delivered to all parties who are entitled to notice.

(a) Authorized Purdue Pharma L.P. and its affiliated debtors and debtors in possession to solicit acceptances of the Fifth Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization of Purdue Pharma L.P. and Its Affiliated Debtors, which includes (a) releases of any actual or potential claims against Sackler family members, and certain other individuals and related entities, relating to Purdue Pharma L.P. and its affiliated debtors (including Purdue prescription opioids, like OxyContin, or other prescription opioids manufactured or sold by Purdue); and (b) an injunction requiring that certain claims against the released parties be asserted only against trusts established under the plan;

WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS? Vote on the Plan: Your vote must be submitted so it is actually received on or before July 14, 2021, at 4:00 p.m., prevailing Eastern Time. Detailed instructions on how to vote are available at PurduePharmaClaims.com or by calling (844) 217-0912 (toll free) or (347) 859-8093 (international). Failure to follow instructions properly may disqualify your vote.

WHEN IS THE HEARING? The Confirmation Hearing will be held on August 9, 2021, at 10 a.m., prevailing Eastern Time, before the Honorable Robert D. Drain, in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, located at 300 Quarropas Street, White Plains, New York 10601-4140. The hearing will be conducted via Zoom videoconference for those who will be participating in the Confirmation Hearing1 if General Order M-543 is still in effect or unless otherwise ordered by the Bankruptcy Court.

If the plan is confirmed, anyone with an actual or potential claim against Purdue Pharma L.P. or any of its affiliated debtors, or with an actual or potential claim against Sackler family members, and certain other individuals and related entities, relating to Purdue Pharma L.P. and its affiliated debtors (including Purdue prescription opioids, like OxyContin, or other prescription opioids manufactured or sold by Purdue), will be bound by the terms of the plan, including the releases and injunctions contained therein.

Object to the Plan: An objection must be submitted so that it is actually received on or before July 19, 2021, at 4:00 p.m., prevailing Eastern Time. Detailed instructions on how to file an objection are available at PurduePharmaClaims.com or by calling (844) 217-0912 (toll free) or (b) Approved the Disclosure Statement (347) 859-8093 (international). for Fifth Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan for Purdue Pharma L.P. and Its Allowance Request: If you believe that Affiliated Debtors as containing “adequate you hold a claim against Purdue Pharma information” pursuant to section 1125 of L.P. that is not currently entitled to vote but that you believe should be entitled the Bankruptcy Code; to vote, you can request the allowance (c) Approved the solicitation materials of such claim for voting purposes. and documents to be included in To do so, you must file a motion with the Court on or before July 19, 2021, solicitation packages; and at 4:00 p.m., prevailing Eastern Time. (d) Approved procedures for soliciting, Detailed instructions on how to file receiving, and tabulating votes on the an allowance request are available plan and for filing objections to the plan. at PurduePharmaClaims.com or by The Court will consider confirmation of calling (844) 217-0912 (toll free) or (347) 859-8093 (international). the plan at the Confirmation Hearing.

THIS IS ONLY A SUMMARY. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call: (844) 217-0912 (toll free) or (347) 859-8093 (international) Visit: PurduePharmaClaims.com Write: Purdue Pharma Ballot Processing, c/o Prime Clerk LLC One Grand Central Place, 60 East 42nd Street, Suite 1440 New York, NY 10165 Email: purduepharmainfo@primeclerk.com Please be advised that Prime Clerk LLC is authorized to answer questions about, and provide additional copies of, solicitation materials, but may not advise you as to whether you should vote to accept or reject the plan or provide any legal advice.

1

Parties or members of the public who wish to participate in the Confirmation Hearing should consult the Court’s calendar with respect to the day of the Confirmation Hearing at https://www.nysb.uscourts.gov/calendars/rdd.html for information regarding how to be added as a participant. Members of the public who wish to listen to, but not participate in, the Confirmation Hearing free of charge may do so telephonically at a number to be provided on the Debtors’ case website at: PurduePharmaClaims.com.

puzzler

1

2

3

4

11

12

15

16

5

13

25

Punk’d Prankster

J. MERRITT/GETTY IMAGES

across

1 Bernie in Guess Who with 30 Across 4 Antipollution org. (inits.)

7 Carve in stone or glass 11 Pint in a pub 12 Groucho, Harpo or Chico in Go West 14 Truth or ___ 15 The “p” in mpg 16 Kunis in That ’70s Show (and real life) with 30 Across 17 Instrument for Ringo Starr or Karen Carpenter 18 30 Across’s What Happens in Vegas costar (2 wds.)

21 Mister Rogers’ lyric: “___ a beautiful day in the neighborhood . . .”

22 ___ You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?

23 ___ Married (30 Across film)

26 Early civil rights icon ___ B. Wells 27 Leoni of Madam Secretary 30 He played Steve Jobs in Jobs (2 wds.)

34 Actress West or Whitman 35 Meet John ___ 36 Two and a ___ Men (30 Across sitcom) 37 Hanks who played Forrest Gump 38 Mr. Grant of classic TV 40 She plays 30 Across’s mother in The Ranch (2 wds.)

45 Cousin of karate 46 Actress Moore once married to 30 Across 47 Farrow of Hannah and Her Sisters 49 Barbara of I Dream of Jeannie 50 Blueprint detail, for short

B y PAT R I C K M E R R E L L

27

28

29

43

44

14

26 31

34

35

32

33 36

37

30 Across

10

22

30

40

9

20

21 24

8

17

19

18

23

7

6

38

41

39

42

45

46

47

49

50

51

52

51 Network on which 30 Across’s show Punk’d aired 52 The Way We ___ 53 Cats author’s initials 54 “I’m for it” vote

down

1 Treasure Island drawing 2 Guinness who played Obi-Wan Kenobi 3 Michael of Juno 4 ___ Brickowski (The Lego Movie hero) 5 Skating category with throw jumps 6 Singer Guthrie 7 Murphy of Coming 2 America 8 Reid in My Boss’s Daughter with 30 Across 9 Actress Penélope 10 Skirt edge

53

13 Citizen Kane estate or an Olivia Newton-John song 19 Softball glove 20 “Phooey!”

23 Space ___: A New Legacy (2021 LeBron James movie) 24 The Sinner and Chrisley Knows Best network 25 He said, ___ said 26 President Eisenhower’s nickname 27 J to ___ L-O 28 Slithery fish 29 Dog’s bark 31 Smell 32 Wanderers 33 Big gulp 37 Letter-shaped steak (hyph.)

38 Green fruits 39 Chilled (2 wds.)

48

54

40 30 Across in ___, Where’s My Car? 41 Linda of Jekyll & Hyde 42 Cried 43 TV award 44 Religious ceremony 45 Passover observer 48 DuVernay who directed Selma

Answers to last week’s Puzzler A C A R

L I L Y

C L O I P I G O R J A S S

I S L A N R E A L K A D R E A L K E E

H O R R O R

I N E E D

P C H E O E N E S

T O S B A Y NO D R B R A T A B U H A L A N A R N O R E S Y R

H E L E N

M E N D

R S E L V Y S

S ON P A Y L A K E I T E R N R A E M I X A N T

July 12, 2021

85

A healthy metabolism is the master key to everything.

Here is an easy step to achieve a stronger metabolism, a healthier gut, a stronger immunity and a higher fat-burning rate.

T

he thing is, your metabolism, which runs the whole biological system of the body, can be slowed or weighed down by bad diets and poor nutrition.

A breakthrough 2020 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that Almased helps people gain more energy, burn more fat and lose more weight than regular diets.

The answer to a stronger metabolism starts with fueling your body with the right combination of better nutrients.

The researchers showed that Almased boosts thermogenesis—the generation of energy and heat from burning carbs and fat—as a sign of a higher metabolic rate. So Almased reduces the tendency to gain fat. This metabolic advantage is like the benefit of an extra 30 minutes on the treadmill every day!

An innovative scientist-developed lowglycemic and high-protein supplement, called Almased, can help your body achieve more by unleashing the power of your metabolism.

ALMASED AND THE SCIENCE OF METABOLISM Your body needs an exact profile of amino acids and important bioactive peptides. We can burn fat better, have more energy and lose weight as a positive side effect when we’re giving our bodies the right metabolic signal with the help of this unique formula.

almased.com/PM28E

1-877-256-2733.

The newest study conducted at the University of Alberta sheds light on how, in a previous 2018 weight loss study led by Dr. Aloys Berg, participants who fully committed themselves to drinking Almased were able to drop weight more effectively than people who only followed a low-calorie diet and exercised.

Not only did their waist size and body composition change, but they also lost body fat instead of muscle mass and water weight.

Both studies tell us by just adding the proper fuel to increase our metabolism, an avalanche of improvements can follow. And there’s more. Metabolism is also a driver of the immune system.

“It has now been 3 months and I've lost 27 pounds.”

BRIDGETTE A.

GUT HEALTH AND IMMUNITY When our gut health is out of whack, so is our immune system.

New research from Memorial Sloan-Kettering shows that our gut bacteria can actually help rebuild our immune system. In fact, the correct protein, amino acids and bioactive peptides are vital to the health of our gut. Not only do they support the growth of good bacteria, but they also can repair our gut lining.

Fortunately, the ingredients in Almased also support gut health which, in turn, boosts immunity. Almased is packed with gut-friendly amino acids, active enzymes and bioactive peptides.

Plus, brand-new metabolism and gut health research have just gotten started.

The PREMIUM Trial is a promising study being conducted at the University of Alberta that will be looking at how Almased affects metabolism and the good bacteria in our gut.

Your gut instinct was right all along.

You can optimize your metabolism, increase your fat-burning rate, lose weight and strengthen your immunity in only one easy step. If you want to follow a diet regimen or just want to increase gut health and immunity with one drink a day, you can find the right plan for you at www.almased.com/PM28E.

Individual results may vary. Average weight loss is 1-2 lbs per week. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These statements and the product of this company are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your physician before implementing any new diet, exercise and dietary supplement programs, especially if you have preexisting medical conditions or are taking prescribed medications.

SOY

HONEY

Your Metabolism, Gut Health and Immunity Boost YOGURT

○ ○ ○ ○ ○

one last thing

Tony Hale

T H E AC TO R , 5 0 , S TA R S I N T H E NEW DISNEY+ SERIES THE MYSTERIOUS BENEDICT SOCIETY

Reporting by JULIE JORDAN

Photograph by GAGE + BETTERTON

88

PeoPle (ISSN 0093-7673) (July 12, 2021) (Volume 96/Issue 2) is published weekly by TI Gotham Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Meredith Corporation, Principal Office: 225 Liberty St., New York, NY 10281-1008. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 507.1.5.2); Non-Postal and Military Facilities: Send address corrections to People Magazine PO BOX 37508 Boone, IA 50037-0508. Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement # 40069223. BN# 888381621RT0001. People Weekly, Star Tracks, Picks & Pans and Chatter are registered trademarks of TI Gotham Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SUBSCRIPTIONS: For 24/7 service, please use our website: people.com/myaccount. You can also call 1-800-541-9000 or write People Magazine PO Box 37508 Boone, IA 50037-0508. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Your bank may provide updates to the card information we have on file. You may opt out of this service at any time. ◆◆◆◆◆◆◆

GROOMER: AMBER RAE; PROP STYLIST: ALI GALLAGHER/JONES MGMT

Last class I took Right when the pandemic hit, my wife [Martel Thompson] and I and our 15-year-old daughter [Loy] did these dance fitness classes. It would fully embarrass my daughter, but the three of us just went crazy. Then we had to stop—to save her the shame.

Last time I was starstruck When I was growing up, The Carol Burnett Show was my comic bible.

I met Tim Conway at this event, and every word and feeling left my body. He was an icon to me.

Last date night My wife and I went up to Santa Barbara to a hotel and out to dinner, and it was really nice. It’s amazing how just getting away, all the anxiety falls away.

Last time I faced a fear I have a pretty significant fear of heights. My daughter and I did this ropes course, and she was flying all over the place and I thought I was going to die. I hugged every tree and made an ass of myself.

Last time I was recognized My dogs recognize me every day when I come home. Fans who come up to me will typically talk about Arrested Development, which I love because I don’t remember much. I’m always like, “I have no idea what you’re talking about, but that’s hilarious!”

Hold for applause.

© 2020 Kraft Foods