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NEED TO KNOW

• Van Der Beek, who starred as Dawson Leery in the series, died at age 48 on Feb. 11

• "I've been flooded with fond memories of our friendship that we shared over the years & this is what's come from them - Your legacy is your light," Monroe, who played Andie McPhee wrote

Meredith Monroe is paying tribute to her close friend andDawson's Creekcostar,James Van Der Beek,two weeks afterhis death at the age of 48.

On Thursday, Feb. 26, Monroe, 56 — who played Andie McPhee on the beloved teen series from 1998 to 2003 alongside Van Der Beek's Dawson Leery — posted an emotional message onInstagramalongside several photos of the two of them taken through the years.

The actress wrote, "It's been 2 weeks & I still don't know what to say?? Nothing seems right?? James, you, Kimberly, your children & families have been constantly in my thoughts, my prayers & on my heart," referencing Van Der Beek's wife,Kimberly Van Der Beek, whom he married in 2010, andtheir six kids.

Monroe continued, "I've been flooded with fond memories of our friendship that we shared over the years & this is what's come from them - Your legacy is your light."

"Whether 1 on 1, at a party, an event, or in your art you've always shared your light through: your humor & laughter your curiosity, time & energy both in others & the world around you your ability to be completely present & make others feel welcome & comfortable your sincerity, friendship, compassion & love," she shared.

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Monroe went on, "James may the love & community that your light has built worldwide be reflected back infinitely upon your beautiful wife Kimberly, your amazing children & your family," concluding, "God gained an angel far too soon. Rest in peace," and adding a white love heart emoji.

Van Der Beek diedon Feb. 11 after beingdiagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancerin 2023.

The late actor'sDawson's CreekcostarKatie Holmeswas alsoamong the many stars from the show paying tributefollowing his tragic death.

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In a moving, hand-written note posted toInstagram, Holmes said that losing Van Der Beek had been "a lot to process."

"I formed some words with a heavy heart. This is a lot to process. I am so grateful to have shared in a piece of James' journey. He is beloved. Kimberly, we love you and will be here always for you and your beautiful children. ❤️,"the mom of one, 47, wrote in a caption.

InDawson's Creek, Van Der Beek's Dawson was an aspiring filmmaker with his heart set on his own happily ever after with Joey Potter (Holmes).

"James, thank you. To share a space with your imagination is sacred — breathing the same air in the land of make believe and trusting that each other's hearts are safe in their expression," Holmes began the letter.

She continued, "These are some of the memories, along with laughter, conversations about life, James Taylor songs — adventures of a unique youth."

Holmes then listed some of Van Der Beek's best qualities, including "bravery, compassion, selflessness and strength."

"An appreciation for life and the action taken to live life with the integrity that life is art — creating a beautiful marriage, six loving children — the journey of a hero," she added.

Holmes then went on to write that she mourned the loss of Van Der Beek "with a heart holding the reality of his absence and deep gratitude for his imprint on it."

The actress concluded her message by addressing her late costar's wife, Kimberly, and their children. "We are here for you always," she wrote. "And will always be there to shower you with love and compassion."

Read the original article onPeople

NEED TO KNOW

• The singer was seen working on her fashion brand Savage X Fenty, new music and an outfit for her youngest son

• "Commercial break," she captioned the post, which comes as she stars in a new campaign for Dior's J'adore fragrance

Rihannais skipping sleep to stay on top of her businesses and parenting!

On Thursday, Feb. 26, the "Umbrella" singer, 38, shared a glimpse into an average day in her life onInstagramand teased potential new music as she revealed she's been in the studio.

The timestamped video began with her walking into a meeting for her fashion brand Savage X Fenty shortly after 9 p.m. After greeting her co-workers, she was seen discussing designs and examining fabric samples to give her approval. "Le Freak" by CHIC played in the background as Rihanna then signed copies of her albums,Loud, Music of the SunandGood Girl Gone Bad.

"I still have to go to the studio after this and I have to make a Mardi Gras costume for my son after the studio," she said as the meeting continued until almost 2 a.m. "Longest day ever."

The nine-time Grammy winner and rapperA$AP Rockysharetwo sons— Riot, 2, and RZA, 3 — and daughter Rocki, whom they welcomed in September.

Rihanna was busy at work in the studio by around 2:30 a.m., but muted the video's audio to avoid revealing the music she was working on.

The "We Found Love" singer hasn't released a studio album sinceANTIin 2016, while her latest song, "Friend of Mine," was released in 2025 for theSmurfsmovie.

"We should have coffee someday, get to know each other," she joked with the sound engineers in the Instagram video. "Yesterday's price is not today's price."

The musician sharing that she was in the studio sent her fans into a frenzy with hopes she is working on her ninth studio album.

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One wrote in the comments section, "Now this album is really coming!" while another of her 349 million Instagram followers added, "Studio? Do you mean new music? 🎵."

Rihanna then revealed she still hadn't slept when she began "mom duties" at 7 a.m, as she had to get straight to work on her son's Mardi Gras costume.

She was seen gluing sequins and green feathers to an umbrella before also embellishing a pair of denim pants.Chaka Khan's "I'm Every Woman" played as she carried her son Riot out of the house wearing the outfit she finished making at 8:30 a.m.

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He posed from different angles in an embellished blazer and the pants before Rihanna joined the fun, wearing a metallic Mardi Gras mask.

"Commercial break," she captioned the post, concluding the video without revealing if she was finally going to rest.

The video comes during an already busy period for Rihanna as she recently attendedNew York Fashion Weekin support of partner A$AP Rocky, 37, and teased a new Dior J'adore fragrance coming on Feb. 27.

Rocky debuted the Fall/Winter 2026 collection for AWGE during fashion week as Rihanna sat front and center.

"I'm always proud of my man," Rihanna toldNew York Post's Alexaat the event. "My guy's creative and a genius."

Read the original article onPeople

While government agencies have not identified who the drone belonged to, top Democrats on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee released a joint statement Thursday evening claiming the drone belonged to CBP.

U.S. Reps. Rick Larsen, Bennie Thompson and Andre Carson said their "heads are exploding over the news" that a CBP drone was shot down bythe Pentagonwith "a high risk counter-unmanned aircraft system."

The legislators added that this incident is "the result of [the White House's] incompetence" after a "short-sighted" decision to "sidestep a bipartisan, tri-committee bill to appropriately train C-UAS operators and address the lack of coordination between the Pentagon, DHS and the FAA."

Republicans Raise Alarm Over Us Vulnerability To Mass Drone Strikes After Israel-iran Conflict

In a joint statement provided to Fox News Digital, the Department of War, CBP and the FAA said the DOW used counter-unmanned aircraft system to respond to a "seemingly threatening unmanned aerial system operating within military airspace."

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The departments said the engagement took place "far away from populated areas and there were no commercial aircraft in the vicinity," adding they "will continue to work on increased cooperation and communication to prevent such incidents in the future."

The departments said they are "working together in an unprecedented fashion to mitigate drone threats by Mexican cartels and foreign terrorist organizations at theU.S.-Mexico border."

"The bottom line is the Trump Administration is doing more to secure the border and crack down on cartels than any administration in history," the statement added.

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Fbi Ramps Up Counter-drone Efforts As Patel Warns Of Growing Threats From Criminals, Terrorists

Congressional aides told Reuters that the Pentagon reportedly used the high-energy laser system to accidentally shoot down the CBP drone near the Mexican border, an area that frequently sees incursions from drones believed to be operated by Mexican drug cartels.

The FAA told Fox News Digital that a temporary flight restriction (TFR) was "already in place" around the Fort Hancock area and that the TFR "has been expanded to include a greater radius to ensure safety."

The restriction does not impact commercial flights, the agency said.

The FAA said in a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) that airspace around Fort Hancock was temporarily restricted for "special security reasons."

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The restriction comes a couple of weeks after the FAA grounded flights to and from El Paso International Airport for 10 days before lifting the order roughly eight hours later.

A Trump administration official previously told Fox News that the initial lockdown came in response to "Mexican cartel drones" that breached U.S. airspace.

A U.S. official later confirmed that the U.S. military hadshot down what was later determinedto be a party balloon near El Paso.

Fox News Digital reached out to the White House for comment and was directed to the joint statement provided by the Department of War, Customs and Border Patrol and Federal Aviation Administration.

Fox News Digital's Anders Hagstrom and Reuters contributed to this report.

Original article source:FAA restricts Texas airspace after Pentagon reportedly strikes down Customs and Border Protection drone

Alberto Carvalho previously awarded a $6 million contract, paying $3 million up front, to education technology company AllHere.

A former salesperson employed by the firm also had her Miami property raided the same day as Carvalho, according to public recordscitedby the Los Angeles Times. The woman, Debra Kerr, reportedly had close ties to Carvalho during his tenure leading Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

Spokesperson Jim Marshallconfirmedto local media Miami Herald that "we searched a residence in Southwest Ranches today as part of this matter and have since cleared the scene."

Fbi Raids Home And Offices Of Major Los Angeles School District Superintendent

In 2023, Carvalho secured a contract with AllHere to develop anAI chatbotcalled "Ed," designed to help address student issues such as absenteeism.

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It ultimately collapsed in 2024 after its founder, Joanna Smith-Griffi, was accused of embezzling funds amid data privacy risks and whistleblower concerns. She was later charged with securities fraud, wire fraud and identity theft.

Kerr further claimed in AllHere's bankruptcy court filings that the company owed her commissions for helping secure its deal with LAUSD,accordingto education-focused outlet The 74.

While federal officials confirmed that search warrants were conducted Wednesday, they declined to reveal the nature of the investigation, noting that the warrants remain under seal.

However, sources told the LA Times that the investigation fell under the broad category of financial issues, and that the raid focused on Carvalho rather than the California school district.

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LAUSD released a statement saying the district is fully cooperating with federal officials.

"The LAUSD Board of Education understands that today's news has raised questions across our school communities," it said.

"The Board's priority remains ensuring that our students, families, and employees experience a safe and welcoming learning environment. Teaching and learning continue across our schools. Los Angeles Unified continues to stay focused on our responsibility to serve students and our families."

The superintendent has led the nation's second-largest school district since 2022, overseeing the education of roughly 400,000 students. He was also unanimously reappointed to the position in September 2025.

Before moving to California, he spent 14 years leadingMiami‑Dade County Public Schools, the nation's fourth-largest school district.

Wednesday's raids mark the latest controversy to engulf Carvalho.

In 2020, he helped secure a $1.57 million donation from a company that had a pending contract with the district, the Miami Heraldreported.

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The funds reportedly went to an education nonprofit he founded, and the company's online learning program, which was ultimately plagued with problems, was quickly scrapped.

In June 2021, the school's inspector general determined that the donation, intended to benefit teachers, did not violate any policies but created the "appearance of impropriety," the outlet said. The foundation was subsequently urged to return the funds, which reportedly had beendistributed to teachersas $100 gift certificates.

Original article source:FBI raid involving LA schools superintendent possibly tied to failed $6M AI deal, potential conflict

Brown's daughter toldTMZthat her father died on Tuesday, February 24, from smoke inhalation after the barn he was in caught fire. According to the publication, the actor was inside the structure attempting to jump-start a vehicle when he began calling out for a fire extinguisher. Reports state that by the time his family reached the barn to try to put out the fire, the building was already engulfed in flames.

According to his daughter, his wife suffered severe burns trying to save him.

The Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed to the outlet that Brown's cause of death was determined to be diffuse thermal injuries and smoke inhalation resulting from a fire. The Chief Medical Examiner has ruled the incident an accident.

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Born Robert Joseph Brown in Washington, D.C., the actor began his career as an amateur boxer before discovering a passion for performance and shifting his focus to acting. That pivot would eventually lead him to one of television's most acclaimed dramas.

Brown was best known for playing Western District patrolman Bob Brown on the HBO seriesThe Wire, created by David Simon. He appeared in a dozen of the show's 60 episodes across its five-season run.

Other thanThe Wire, he appeared inWe Own This Cityas Sergeant Thomas Allers,Homicide: Life on the Street, andLaw & Order: Special Victims Unit, as well as films such as 2002'sCity by the Sea, 2016'sMy One and Only, and 2018'sFishbowl. He also directed the documentaries 2005'sOff the Chainand 2016'sTear the Roof Off: The Untold Story of Parliament Funkadelic.

Brown's passing comes just months after the death of anotherThe Wireactor, James Ransone,who died last January.

Read the latest entertainment news onTV Insider.

NEED TO KNOW

• Dane died at 53 on Feb. 19, 10 months after going public with his ALS diagnosis

• Dane starred in Grey's Anatomy as Dr. Mark "McSteamy" Sloan for seven seasons

Grey's Anatomypaid homage to the lateEric Daneat the end of the episode that aired on Thursday, Feb. 26.

The ABC medical drama shared a 60-second montage at the end of the episode featuring notable moments involving Dane's beloved character, Dr. Mark "McSteamy" Sloan. The tribute was soundtracked by Tommee Profitt and Fleurie's cover of Snow Patrol's "Chasing Cars," which was also used in a montage to celebrate the 400th episode of the series in 2022.

The song first appeared on the show in the season 2 finale in 2006.

"In loving memory of Eric Dane. ❤️," theGrey'sofficialInstagramaccount captioned the montage on social media. The remembrance, which featured Dane's character's introduction to the show and a number of his most notable lines, ends with a black and white portrait of Dane, whodiedon the 20th anniversary of his first appearance on the show.

Dane played his breakthrough role, nicknamed "McSteamy," for seven seasons, with the fan-favorite character exploring a variety of complex relationship dynamics in the high-intensity environment of the fictional Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. His character's arc famously ended with a tragic death in a plane crash in season 9.

Danediedat the age of 53 on Feb. 19, PEOPLE confirmed, 10 months after announcing his amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

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"With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS," the actor's family said in a statement to PEOPLE. "He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world."

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The statement continued, "Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he's received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time."

Dane is survived by his daughters, Billie and Georgia, whom he shared with his ex, actress Rebecca Gayheart.

Friends of DanestartedaGoFundMefundraiser to raise money to "help provide stability during this incredibly difficult time and in the future for Eric's wonderful daughters" following his death. At press time, the fundraiser has raised more than $467,000 of its $500,000 goal.

Read the original article onPeople

Maura Higgins said players have to find at least one person to trust on "The Traitors," but like most of the faithful in Season 4, she learned the hard way that placing her trust in the wrong person can be fatal.

The Irish TV personality made it to the final five after "Dancing With The Stars" performer Mark Ballas was the final player to be "murdered" in front of the group.

That left Olympic skating bestiesTara Lipinski and Johnny Weir(Faithfuls) in a tight battle versus singer Eric Nam and snake wrangling hearthrob Rob Rausch (Traitors). All eyes were on Maura Higgins, who started second-guessing whether her closest ally and fellow "Love Island" alum, Rob, could have secretly been playing her all along.

At the final roundtable, Maura had listened to both sides and trusted her gut in making the right decision. But was it the right decision?

Did the Traitors or the Faithful win?

After Johnny Weir was voted out in a 3-2 vote and later Tara in a 3-1 vote, the remaining traitors, Rob and Eric, had successfully allowed the traitors to triumph.

Yet, the game wasn't finished as two players decided to banish again.

Who won 'The Traitors' Season 4?

"Love Island" starRob Rauschwas the sole winner of "The Traitors" Season 4.

He is the first traitor to win the U.S. game since Cirie Fields' victory in Season 1, as the two most recent seasons saw multiple faithfuls win.

With only three players remaining, Maura and Rob voted to banish Eric, leaving Rob with the total prize pot of over $200,000 as the last remaining traitor to make it to the end.

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Who is Rob Rausch?

Rob Rausch is a 27-year-old professional snake wrangler and a reality TV personality from Alabama.

Before his success on "The Traitors," he rose to fame as a Casa Amor bombshell in Season 5. He returned as a primary star in Season 6, where he shared several romances with contestants like Leah Kateb and Andrea Carmona.

Who were 'The Traitors' in Season 4?

"The Traitors" in Season 4 included:

• Former "The Real Housewives of Potomac" star Candiace Dillard Bassett

• "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" alum Lisa Rinna

• "Love Island" breakout Rob Rausch.

• Celebrity parent Donna Kelce, the mother of Jason and Travis Kelce, was the first "secret traitor" whose identity fans were not privy to until the end of Episode 3.

'The Traitors' is back, with its scenic rolling hills of Scotland, historic castles and a bit of drama.

The latest season premiere has sparked an interest in fans, with a 15% increase in vacation rentals in Scotland, according to Vrbo.

Here are some of the most majestic castles to rent on your next trip.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> Situated along a river, this 16th century castle Lomond makes for a sprawling yet regal resort for travelers to relax at.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> Carnell Estates is a small castle with walled gardens and characteristics from the late Middle Ages, dating back to 1435.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> Guests can meander the stunning gardens at Carnell Estates.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> Some famous guests who have roamed the halls of Fenton Tower include King James VI of Scotland.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> This magnificent and luxurious castle in Kirknewton feels like it's right out of a storybook. Conveniently, it's only eight miles from Edinburgh Airport.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> For a sense of place, the halls of the castle near Kirknewton are outfitted in an elegant Christmas theme.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> Set on 10 acres of manicured lawns and woodlands, this Medieval castle in Arbroath features turrets, a great hall and regal fireplaces. (Don't worry, it has been renovated with modern creature comforts too).

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> The decor of the medieval castle will take you back in time.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />

You can stay in these 5 Scottish castles to live your 'Traitors' dream

'The Traitors' is back, with its scenic rolling hills of Scotland, historic castles and a bit of drama.The latest season premiere has sparked an interest in fans, with a 15% increase in vacation rentals in Scotland, according to Vrbo.Here are some of the most majestic castles to rent on your next trip.

Who won 'The Traitors' Season 1, 2 and 3?

Four-time "Survivor" contestant Ciree Fields was the first person to win the U.S. version of "The Traitors" as a traitor. She left faithfuls Andie Thurmond and Quentin Jiles flabbergasted when she revealed her identity and won all the money.

"The Challenge" contestants Trishelle Cannatella and CT Tamburello both won "The Traitors" Season 2 as faithfuls.

Gabby Windey, Dylan Efron, Dolores Catania and Lord Ivar Mountbatten won "The Traitors" Season 3 as faithfuls. They are the largest batch of winners in the show's four-season run.

Will there be 'The Traitors' Season 5?

Peacock has renewed "The Traitors" for Season 5,Deadlineconfirmed in August 2025.

Where is 'The Traitors' filmed?

"The Traitors" is filmed at Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands.

Who is the host of 'The Traitors'?

Scottish actorAlan Cumminghas hosted all four seasons of "The Traitors" (U.S.)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Who wins 'Traitors' Season 4?