- “Counting On” star & oldest sibling Jana Duggar marries “Mr. Right.”
- Rosie O’Donnell’s son weds the “love of his life.”
- Brad Paisley’s wife, Kimberly, was hospitalized, igniting prayers from fans.
- “Little House on the Prairie” actress Melissa Gilbert reveals health diagnosis at 60.
- Marlo Thomas’ husband, Phil Donahue, passes away.
- Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck head for divorce, and four surprising details are revealed.
Get ready for this week’s celebrity news! Jana Duggar finally marries, Rosie O’Donnell celebrates her son’s wedding day, and Brad Paisley’s wife faces a health scare. Plus, Melissa Gilbert shares her diagnosis, and Jennifer Lopez files for divorce. Uncover the latest updates!
Jennifer Lopez in Los Angeles on June 2, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Jana Duggar’s Surprise “Elegant” Wedding: The Who, When, and Where
Jana Duggar tied the knot with 31-year-old Stephen Wissmann on Thursday, August 15, in Prairie Grove, Arkansas. The surprise wedding was held at The Grand at Willow Springs, a venue chosen for its picturesque beauty.
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann’s wedding venue | Source: Instagram/thegrandws
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The ceremony was described as “classic and elegant,” with 500 guests, including the Duggar family and close friends. This event is a dream come true for the 34-year-old author and television personality, known as the eldest Duggar daughter.
Jana, who has long spoken about her hopes of finding love, looked radiant as she walked down the aisle in an off-the-shoulder ivory satin ball gown. Her father, Jim Bob Duggar, proudly escorted her, while the hymn “Holy, Holy, Holy” played in the background.
Jana Duggar smiles brightly as she stands surrounded by her beautiful bridesmaids in a photo shared in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
Jana’s sister, Jessa Duggar Seewald, served as maid of honor. The bridal party featured her sisters Joy-Anna, Johannah, Jinger, Jordyn, and sister-in-law Abbie.
Jana Duggar smiles brightly as she stands surrounded by her beautiful bridesmaids in a photo shared in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
The bridesmaids wore champagne-colored dresses that beautifully complemented the simple yet elegant decor of white flowers and greenery. The men wore classic black suits, which added to the timeless feel of the ceremony.
Stephen Wissmann looks suave in his black and white suit while posing with his groomsmen at a billiard table, posted in August 2024 Source: Instagram/janamduggar
Stephen Wissmann and his dashing groomsmen, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann pose with their bridesmaids and groomsmen in a photo posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
The couple, who got engaged on June 15, chose to keep the wedding decor minimal to emphasize the venue’s natural beauty. “The venue is already so gorgeous and picturesque that I didn’t want to take too much from that,” Jana explained.
A photo of Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann’s minimalist-inspired wedding day, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
A closer view of Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann’s minimalist-inspired wedding features a large window and floral decor, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
A clean exterior view of Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann’s minimalist-inspired wedding venue, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
The road to the altar has been long for Jana and Stephen, marked by years of faith, patience, and a deep connection that grew over time. The two first met many years ago when their families, both large and rooted in Christian values, connected.
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“The Wissmanns would travel and sing,” Jana recalled, mentioning how the family visited the Duggars’ home about 13 years ago. At the time, Stephen wasn’t on her radar, as he was younger and she was focused on other things.
It wasn’t until much later that they reconnected and realized they shared something special. After briefly dating a few years ago, Jana and Stephen parted ways but remained in touch.
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Their paths crossed again earlier this year, and it became clear that their feelings for each other had only grown stronger. “What are we doing? We still enjoy each other. We still really appreciate each other,” Jana said of their rekindled relationship.
Stephen’s patience and dedication played a significant role in winning Jana’s heart. Despite her initial hesitations, she recognized his genuine care and love for her.
A vintage car adds a classic touch to Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann’s minimalist-inspired wedding day, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
“I had been a slower mover on it, but just over time, his character, his coming back, still loving me no matter what… I’m like, my goodness, there are not too many people that do that,” she gushed.
During their wedding, the family was at the heart of the celebration, with both Jana and Stephen’s large families playing significant roles throughout the day. For the couple, involving their loved ones was a top priority.
Janna Duggar shares a sweet moment with her mother, Michelle Duggar, on her wedding day, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
“Coming from two bigger families, we love to be able to get together and celebrate moments like these,” Jana shared. Stephen, one of 13 siblings, shares this close-knit family bond, making the day even more special.
Jana Duggar, Stephen Wissmann, and their bridesmaids and groomsmen show off fun expressions on their wedding day, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
The wedding also reflects the culmination of a journey that Jana has openly shared with her fans over the years. A few years back, Jana had expressed that while she wasn’t stressed about her love life, she hoped to find the right person someday.
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“I’m not that worried,” she said at the age of 30. “Yes, I long to be married and one day I think that will come, but I think … I’m just also just trying to stay busy with whatever comes along my path.” During that time, Jana was focused on making the most of her single years, even as she sometimes felt pressured to take the next big step.
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Jana also opened up about her dating life in October 2019, admitting that there “have been a number of guys” who had asked her out, but “none of them worked out.” As the eldest daughter, Jana had watched many of her younger siblings marry and start families, which was often difficult. This is what made her wedding even more special for her.
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann walk hand-in-hand, with their bridesmaids and groomsmen on both sides, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
Following the ceremony, the newlyweds arrived at their reception venue, where guests enjoyed a formal dinner prepared by Stephen’s family, renowned for their culinary skills. The meal featured a spread of chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes, rolls, and coleslaw.
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann enter their reception hall with guests and family, as shared in an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/alaythia.wissmann
The wedding guests of Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann warmly cheer for the couple in the reception hall, as shared in an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/alaythia.wissmann
The wedding guests warmly greet Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann as they enter the reception hall, as shared in an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/alaythia.wissmann
The wedding guests look at Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann as they enter the reception venue, as shared in an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/alaythia.wissmann
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann happily face their guests at the reception after exchanging their vows, as shared in an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/alaythia.wissmann
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann happily face their guests at the reception after exchanging their vows, as shared on an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/alaythia.wissmann
“Because we’re doing an evening wedding, I envisioned this more formal, sit-down dinner,” Jana explained. “The Wissmanns are incredible cooks. They’ve been working on it, and I’m like, ‘Just do it. I trust y’all. Y’all make amazing food.'” For dessert, guests were treated to a three-tier lemon raspberry cake, complemented by an array of cupcakes.
Stephen Wissmann and Jana Duggar’s three-tier lemon raspberry cake, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
Stephen Wissmann and Jana Duggar taste a piece of their sliced wedding cake, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
The reception was filled with lively interactions, including games and heartfelt toasts that added a personal touch to the evening.
Stephen Wissmann leans in to Jana Duggar at their reception venue, as shared in an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/alaythia.wissmann
Stephen Wissmann kisses Jana Duggar at their reception venue, as shared in an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/alaythia.wissmann
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann smile with their loved ones, as shared in an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/rissywiss
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann smile with their wedding photographer, Darian Kaia, as shared in an Instagram Story in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/dariankaiaphotography
One of Jana’s brothers-in-law took on the role of emcee, ensuring that the celebration was full of joy and laughter. The couple’s first dance as husband and wife was one of the evening’s highlights, followed by the traditional bouquet toss.
Jana Duggar and Stephen Wissmann dance in the evening, surrounded by their guests holding sparklers, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/janamduggar
Now that they are married, Jana and Stephen are excited to begin their life together in Nebraska, where Stephen works. The couple has been working on fixing up a house they bought together, a project that has brought them closer.
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“It’s great,” Jana shared. “We’ve been working, he has a little house we bought that we’ve been fixing up and getting pulled together, and so that’s been fun.”
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Who Is Rosie O’Donnell’s Son’s New Wife? Full Wedding Details & Pics
Blake Christopher O’Donnell pledged a lifetime of love to Teresa Garofalow Westervelt, now O’Donnell, in a magical ceremony on August 16. Enveloped in the support and adoration of their family and friends, the pair said “I do,” and their loved ones could not be more overjoyed or proud.
The wedding placard and signage at Blake and Teresa O’Donnell’s wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/snapsfromsydney
Teresa and Blake O’Donnell surrounded by some of their loved ones on their special day, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25
Rosie and Blake O’Donnell posing for a picture before his wedding ceremony, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/rosie
Loved ones at Teresa and Blake O’Donnell’s wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25 and theblakeodonnell
Guests posing for pictures at Teresa and Blake O’Donnell’s wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theblakeodonnell
Breathtaking pictures shared online by the blushing bride, dashing groom, their famous family members, and event organizers depict the event’s charm.
Blake and Teresa O’Donnell sharing a kiss on their wedding day alongside Rosie O’Donnell, Anne Steele, Kelli Carpenter and other loved ones, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
Blake and Teresa O’Donnell sharing an intimate moment during their wedding day, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theblakeodonnell
“☁️[Dancing] on cloud 9, and we never wanna come down […]☁️ 8/16/24 was a day full of so much love it could barely be contained! 🥰 We are overwhelmed with all of the love and joy that surrounded us on our wedding day, and our hearts are so full seeing how much fun everyone had!!” penned Teresa in a caption.
A young loved one singing at Blake and Teresa O’Donnell’s wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25 and theblakeodonnell
Teresa and Blake O’Donnell dancing at their wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25 and theblakeodonnell
Rosie O’Donnell posing with a guest, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/snapsfromsydney
Continuing, she gushed, “We [couldn’t] have asked for a more magical day, and are blessed to have so many people who love us.”
Teresa O’Donnell posing for a picture with her bridesmaids, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25 and theblakeodonnell
Blake O’Donnell posing for a picture with his best woman and groomsmen, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
Blake O’Donnell posing with a friend on Blake’s wedding day, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theblakeodonnell
Kelli Carpenter and Anne Steel posing for a picture with loved ones at Blake and Teresa’s wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
Kelli Carpenter and Anne Steele posing with loved ones, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
Loved ones posing for a picture on Blake and Teresa’s wedding day, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/rosie
Loved ones posing for a photo at Blake and Teresa O’Donnell’s wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/rosie
Rosie O’Donnell’s niece posing for a picture with loved ones, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/the_other_odonnell
Rosie O’Donnell’s niece posing for a picture with loved ones, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/the_other_odonnell
“Magical” is the perfect word to describe Teresa and Blake’s ceremony. From the beautiful floral arrangements peppered throughout the venue to the glamorously decorated ballroom where guests danced the night away, their wedding was one for the books.
Blake and Teresa O’Donnell on their wedding day, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25 and theblakeodonnell
A view of Blake and Teresa O’Donnell’s wedding reception, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/snapsfromsydney
A close-up of one of the tables at Blake and Teresa’s wedding reception, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/snapsfromsydney
Guests dancing at Teresa and Blake O’Donnell’s wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25 and theblakeodonnell
Guests at Teresa and Blake O’Donnell’s wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/snapsfromsydney
For her special day, Teresa donned a beautiful, lace wedding gown. The garment was white, long-sleeved, and partially see-through, leaving cheeky glimpses of skin.
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Teresa O’Donnell and her bridesmaids, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25 and theblakeodonnell
The princess-esque bottom half of the gown puffed out with tulle material and featured more lace designs. Topping off her look, Teresa sported a delicate veil on top of her head.
Blake and Teresa O’Donnell sharing a kiss on their wedding day alongside Rosie O’Donnell, Kelli Carpenter and other loved ones, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/rosie
She adorned her face with beautiful makeup and framed it with loosely curled strands of hair. The rest of her mixed-colored locks were fashioned into a bun. Besides the stunning diamond jewels that Teresa accessorized with, she carried a striking white and lilac floral bouquet.
Teresa O’Donnell posing for a picture on her wedding day, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25 and theblakeodonnell
Teresa O’Donnell, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
Teresa O’Donnell putting on her earrings, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/a_s_h_l_e_e_k
Teresa O’Donnell, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/a_s_h_l_e_e_k
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Matching his wife’s elegance and class, Blake opted to wear a smart white and black suit. He paired his ensemble with a black bow tie, a formal white dress shirt, formal shoes, and what appeared to be a flower poking out of his suit jacket’s front pocket.
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Blake and Teresa exchanged vows indoors in front of their wedding officiant and beside their pretty bridesmaids and dashing groomsmen. Their altar, which did not join at the top to form an arch, was adorned with beautiful white flowers.
Teresa and Blake O’Donnell exchanging vows at the altar, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/snapsfromsydney
Blake O’Donnell posing for a picture with his best woman and groomsmen, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25 and theblakeodonnell
Teresa O’Donnell’s bridesmaids posing for a picture, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/teresa.g_25
To say Blake’s parents were unbelievably proud to watch their son become a husband is an understatement, they are also elated. His iconic mom, Rosie O’Donnell, has shared several pictures and accompanying captions boasting about her son’s big day.
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“[Awwwwww] #newlyweds – 💙💚💛🧡❤️Blake and Teresa O’Donnell #loveuso,” expressed the “Now and Then” star in one of her messages. She penned this alongside a heartwarming photo of Blake and Teresa gazing at each other with nothing but love in their eyes.
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Apart from Rosie’s posts, Blake’s stepmother, Anne Steele—who is married to Kelli Carpenter (Blake’s mom and Rosie’s ex-wife)—shared her own pictures. Anne, who is a singer, also sang at the wedding, adding another layer of sentimentality to the affair.
Anne Steele posing for a picture on a big chair, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
Kelli Carpenter, Blake O’Donnell and Anne Steele posing with goofy expressions, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
Anne Steele posing with a loved one, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
Her images range from sweet, intimate moments shared between her, Teresa, and other close ones in the bride’s dressing room to Blake and Kelli sharing a mother-son dance.
Kelli Carpenter, Teresa O’Donnell and Anne Steele posing for a picture with loved ones on Teresa’s wedding day, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
Kelli Carpenter and Blake O’Donnell sharing a mother-son dance at his wedding, posted on August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theannesteele
“It’s official! Our son Blake has married Teresa, the love of his life. It was a perfect day filled with love surrounded by family and so many friends,” reads the start of her caption.
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“We couldn’t have imagined a better way to welcome Teresa to our crazy family! It was my honor to sing my original song #Timeless for their first dance! I will never forget it. Here’s to a lifetime of love! We can’t wait to see all that comes next for you!” Anne swooned.
What Happened to Brad Paisley’s Wife, Kimberly?
Kimberly Williams-Paisley took to social media to share an update about her health, revealing that she had been hospitalized after undergoing surgery.
A fan sends her love to Kimberly Paisley after her surgery, on a post dated August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/kimberlywilliamspaisley/
The “Two and a Half Men” actress recounted a distressing experience from nearly two years ago when she lost her voice during a performance at an Alzheimer’s event in Nashville.
Kimberly Williams-Paisley attends Nashville’s ’90s Dance Party to End ALZ benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association in Nashville, Tennessee, on November 13, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
The loss of her voice was both embarrassing and frightening, and despite various attempts to heal, the issue persisted. Kimberly eventually learned that she had damage to her laryngeal nerve. “I tried everything I could to heal it (so thank you but please don’t give me any tips!),” she wrote.
Kimberly Williams-Paisley speaks onstage at the Nashville ’80s Dance Party to End ALZ benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association in Nashville, Tennessee, on November 14, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
This week, the 52-year-old underwent surgery at Vanderbilt Health, where expert surgeons worked on her condition. She reported that the procedure was successful and that her voice is already improving.
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“I have a badass scar that’s smiling at me across my neck. (Swipe for the drawing my brother made on top of the image if you can handle it. 😂😳),” she noted with a touch of humor.
Kimberly Paisley shows the drawing her brother did on the picture of her scar from her laryngoplasty surgery, on a post dated August 18, 2024 | Source: Instagram/kimberlywilliamspaisley/
Kimberly Paisley mentioned that she had been hesitant to talk about this topic before because it felt too personal. She added, “I took for granted my ability to ‘use my voice’ before—for my career, for a good cause, for a timely joke, for SELF-EXPRESSION, for a loud dinner party.”
Now, however, the actress has found herself being the quietest person in the room, feeling meek and trapped in her own body. New acquaintances have perceived her as shy or reserved.
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She has experienced shame and self-loathing and has undergone various forms of training, including breathing techniques, braces, and other healing methods. Throughout this journey, she has laughed, cried, and explained her struggles.
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The journey has not been all doom, as Kimberly revealed, “I’ve met many amazing helpers along the way who’ve become amazing friends & I’m feeling SO GRATEFUL.”
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The actress shared that during the three-hour laryngoplasty procedure to enhance her paralyzed vocal cord, she was awake throughout. This procedure was intended to help her vocal cords properly engage with each other.
She watched much of the process on a video screen above her and was amazed by the remarkable advancements of modern medicine.
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The actress also had “other good news” to share. “In the last two years, I’ve found power in using my voice in new ways. I’ve healed old emotional wounds. I’ve learned the strength & beauty of silence,” she wrote.
Additionally, Kimberly is now deadlifting over a hundred pounds, taking better care of her body, managing stress, and letting go of shame. Overall, she feels more whole, empowered, and joyful.
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The actress also told her followers that she had learned from a recent podcast by Kate C. Bowler. Her takeaway was that if one is going through a difficult time, one should emerge with something valuable from the experience. “Was losing my voice worth it? Mm, not exactly. Was it worthless? Not for a second,” she declared.
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Kimberly’s supportive husband, Brad Paisley, commented on the actress’s revealing post, saying, “This will be a great new chapter. Also, I will miss the silence.”
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Fans also responded with supportive messages. One fan wrote, “Praying ❤️🙏.” Another fan commented, “Scary but glad you made it through the surgery! You’re looking as beautiful as ever!”
One user, who is a voice therapist, shared their expertise, “There are techniques available that can help improve voices more quickly, but whispering can be as damaging as shouting. I hope she recovers soon.”
What Is Melissa Gilbert’s Health Diagnosis?
Behind the sunny smile of “Half Pint” Laura Ingalls, the star of “Little House on the Prairie,” Melissa Gilbert, hid a childhood struggle that few knew about.
Melissa Gilbert poses during a photocall for the Golden Nymph Awards ceremony of the 62nd Monte-Carlo Television Festival in the principalty of Monaco on June 20, 2023. | Source: Getty Images
It was an intense and debilitating condition called misophonia. Though she lit up screens with her portrayal of the beloved frontier girl, behind the scenes, was a different story.
Every day sounds like chewing, gum popping, and even the innocent clap of hands sent her into frustration. As a young girl, Gilbert says these sounds became unbearable triggers that provoked a deep emotional reaction.
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“If any of the kids chewed gum or ate or tapped their fingernails on the table, I would want to run away so badly,” she recalled in a recent interview. The actress shared that her reaction to these noises left her feeling trapped in anger and misery.
Melissa Gilbert as Laura Elizabeth Ingalls Wilder on the set of “Little House On The Prairie.” | Source: Getty Images
She would turn beet-red, eyes brimming with tears of frustration. And yet, she felt guilty—how could she feel so much rage towards people including her own loved ones?
Even her family didn’t quite understand. They chalked it up to her being a fussy kid, unaware of the internal storm she was weathering. “I would just glare at my parents and my grandmother and my siblings with eyes filled with hate,” she confessed.
Melissa Gilbert as Laura Elizabeth Ingalls Wilder on the set of “Little House On The Prairie.” | Source: Getty Images
The condition followed her into motherhood, where her children faced the effects of her misophonia. “My poor kids spent their whole childhoods growing up with me doing this. They weren’t allowed to have gum,” she admitted.
Melissa Gilbert with sons Michael & Dakota during “The Powerpuff Girls Movie” Premiere at Loews Century Plaza Theatre in Century City, California. | Source: Getty Images
It wasn’t until much later that Gilbert would finally find an answer to the suffering she had endured for so long. She learned that her intense reactions to certain sounds were rooted in a neurological disorder—misophonia.
Melissa Gilbert during Bright Lights of L.A. Benefiting Starlight Children’s Foundation in Century City, California, in November 2000 | Source: Getty Images
But as she reached menopause, the condition only worsened. She grew more sensitive, her emotional responses more intense, leading to outbursts that she couldn’t control. “I was more touchy,” she explained.
Gilbert’s turning point came when she reached out to Dr. Zach Rosenthal at the Duke Center for Misophonia & Emotion Regulation. Finally, she had a diagnosis—and a path toward understanding and treatment.
Melissa Gilbert speaks at The Paley Center For Media hosts on December 14, 2022, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Her candid revelation has since struck a chord with fans, many of whom shared their heartfelt support. “Awwww my Laura. Praying for you continuously @melissagilbertofficial 💜💜🙏🏾,” wrote one fan. Another described her as an “inspiration.”
A fan comment dated August 20, 2024 | Source: Instagram/melissagilbertofficial
Her story of struggle and resilience has also inspired others who suffer from the same condition. “I have it too,” one fan shared. “Thanks for sharing, Melissa! It can make socializing so difficult.” There were also encouraging comments like, “Hope you get better” and “Sorry to hear about your disability Melissa.”
Heartbreaking Details about the Death of Marlo Thomas’ Husband of 44 Years, Phil Donahue
Hollywood legend Marlo Thomas has shared a message on Instagram in which she addresses the passing of her beloved husband—iconic TV personality Phil Donahue. Accompanied by a beautiful nostalgic photo of the duo, taken from a favorite memory of hers, Thomas’ words, posted on August 19, are enough to bring tears to the eyes.
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“Hello, Friends. I’m sure by now you’ve heard the very sad news that I lost my sweetheart last night, so I know you understand that I’ll be stepping away from this page for a while to take care of myself and the many people who took care of Phil, and held him close to their hearts,” the actress began.
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Thomas went on to say that before taking her hiatus to heal, she wanted to let the public know how unbelievably grateful she is to have received “beautiful messages of love and support” from countless people.
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The “That Girl” star also graciously thanked all of her and Donahue’s supporters for allowing the couple to share their amazing life adventures with them over the years.
She reminisced about how her late husband, known for his love for his audience, took pleasure in being a part of the community where he and Thomas lived.
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“I know he would be very touched by the heartwarming thoughts and memories you’ve been sharing,” Thomas stated. The rest of her sentimental message goes on to wish health and happiness to all, which she hopes people will cherish with their loved ones.
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“I hope that you will continue to hold close those you cherish most, just as I was blessed to do with my beloved Phillip. Love, Marlo,” Thomas expressed.
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At the end of her caption, she gushes about the beautiful image she shared, in which she and Donahue are seen enjoying a scooter ride together during a vacation. She called it one of her favorite photos of her and Donahue.
What Are the Four Shocking Twists about JLo & Ben Affleck’s Divorce?
Jennifer “JLo” Lopez has officially filed for divorce from Ben Affleck after more than two years of marriage. She submitted the paperwork to the Los Angeles County Superior Court on a symbolic date—exactly two years after their second grand wedding ceremony.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez were seen walking a bit apart from each other in New York City on March 29, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
According to TMZ, the couple’s separation date is listed as April 26, 2024, and further details offer a fresh perspective on their unexpected split.
#JLo has filed for divorce from #BenAffleck 💔 pic.twitter.com/NYYAlsjuz6
— TMZ (@TMZ) August 20, 2024
JLo’s Divorce Filing Comes on the Anniversary of Their Georgia Wedding
JLo reportedly filed for divorce on August 20, the same day as their Georgia wedding anniversary, adding a bittersweet note to their split. The couple rekindled their romance in 2021 and got engaged in April 2022.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the “Marry Me” screening in Los Angeles on February 8, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
After getting engaged, they had a surprise Las Vegas wedding on July 16, 2022. A month later, they celebrated with a larger ceremony at Ben’s Georgia estate. In her On the JLo newsletter, JLo described the day as “full-circle” and “better” than expected.
“Love is beautiful. Love is kind. And it turns out love is patient. Twenty years patient.”
Jennifer Lopez confirmed that she & Ben Affleck eloped in Vegas in her On the JLo newsletter. She signed the message “Mrs. Jennifer Lynn Affleck.” 🥰
Read more: https://t.co/B5Q8DuiUDA pic.twitter.com/Ujl4gtxYc4
— ExtraTV (@extratv) July 17, 2022
The ceremony was personal, with the couple walking down the aisle to “True Companion” by Marc Cohn. JLo wore three custom wedding dresses: a turtleneck gown, a mermaid silhouette, and a chandelier pearl gown, which she called “dreamy.”
Bride and groom #JenniferLopez and #BenAffleck, both dressed in custom Ralph Lauren, celebrated their marriage in the company of friends and family#JLo pic.twitter.com/o80CTvF0TX
— Ralph Lauren (@RalphLauren) September 2, 2022
Lo Filed the Divorce Documents Herself
In a surprising move, JLo filed the divorce documents without a lawyer. This approach, known as filing “pro per,” suggests she wants to handle the process independently. She also waived her right to spousal support and asked that the court deny Ben any support as well.
Jennifer Lopez at Paris Fashion Week on June 24, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Ben Affleck & Jennifer Lopez Have No Prenuptial Agreement
TMZ also reported that the divorce documents show JLo and Ben did not have a prenuptial agreement. Despite their previous marriages and significant wealth, they didn’t protect their finances.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck in New York City on September 26, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
As a result, any earnings or profits made during the couple’s nearly two years of marriage will be treated as community property. A legal source has clarified this matter.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at Elle’s Women in Hollywood Celebration in Los Angeles on December 5, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Marilyn Chinitz, a divorce lawyer at Blank Rome LLP, commented that JLo’s decision to proceed with the divorce, even without legal representation, sends a clear message of determination, calling it her “real statement” of moving forward.
Jennifer Lopez walks ahead while Ben Affleck follows in Los Angeles, California, on March 11, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
She also stated that it would be “extremely unusual” for the couple not to have a prenuptial agreement. The only time that you see people not having a prenup is when they’ve put most of their assets in trust for their children, and those trusts have been established and they wouldn’t be part of the community [property],” Chinitz explained.
Emme Maribel Muñiz, Ben Affleck, and Jennifer Lopez in Los Angeles on May 20, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
ennifer Are Still Hashing Out the Sale of Their Marital Home
Although JLo has filed for divorce, their financial settlement remains unresolved. The couple’s Beverly Hills home is on the market, but negotiations have reportedly become tense. JLo and Ben are searching for new homes, signaling the end of their shared life together.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck in Los Angeles on April 26, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
JLo and Ben first became a media sensation in the early 2000s when their relationship, known as “Bennifer,” grabbed headlines. They got engaged and starred together in “Gigli” (2003) and “Jersey Girl” (2004), but their romance ended before “Jersey Girl” was released.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez at the “Daredevil” premiere in Los Angeles on February 9, 2003 | Source: Getty Images
Over the next 20 years, both married other people—JLo with Marc Anthony and Ben with Jennifer Garner—but they reunited three years ago. Since then, they often appeared together at public events, promoting each other’s projects. Ben even appeared in JLo’s Amazon Prime Video special, “This Is Me … Now: A Love Story.”
JLo’s latest album, “This Is Me … Now,” revisits themes from her 2002 album, “This Is Me … Then,” which was inspired by her first relationship with Ben. Fans followed their love story through JLo’s social media and newsletter updates.
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However, in May, JLo unexpectedly canceled her summer tour, saying she needed time with her family—a decision that hinted at the couple’s split and eventual divorce.
From Jana’s blissful union to JLo’s surprising divorce, one thing is clear in Hollywood: the drama and intrigue never take a break. Stay tuned for next week’s news digest for more star-studded updates and captivating stories!
