- Richard Simmons’ final public photo has been revealed.
- Meghan Markle steps out in $190.4K ensemble with Hollywood actress.
- Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively’s 4th child’s name was ridiculed.
- JLo’s 55th birthday party was heavily criticized for a few reasons.
- Rory Feek marries his daughter’s teacher.
Welcome to your Friday Digest! This week features late fitness guru Richard Simmons’ final photo, Meghan Markle’s pricey outfit, Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively’s “weird” baby name reveal, Jennifer Lopez’s birthday celebration, and Rory Feek’s heartwarming wedding. Dive in for all the details!
What Happened at JLo’s 55th Birthday Party?
Hollywood star Jennifer Lopez turned 55 on July 24. Celebrating the special occasion ahead of the actual day, the iconic entertainer hosted a luxurious “Bridgerton”-themed party in The Hamptons on July 20. Media of the lavish event and the attire worn by guests, like the gown Lopez’s mother wore, have left a bad taste in the mouths of some online observers.
User comment about the dress Jennifer Lopez’s mom wore for the star’s 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 23, 2024 | Source: Instagram/elderordonez1
Eye-catching pictures and videos shared online showed workers setting up the party. Security teams, valets, and waiters could also be seen standing outside of the location where the event took place.
In addition to a horse trailer, trucks were also seen transporting beautiful flowers and furniture to the venue, where they unloaded the cargo ahead of the party. Videos also display guests arriving, one by one, to the fancy affair, dressed like wealthy nobility members.
Among the esteemed guest list was the “Atlas” actress’ mom, Guadalupe Rodríguez, who donned a striking blue gown with white lace detailing. A video shows Rodríguez walking past the security team to enter the venue alongside another woman.
Guadalupe Rodríguez walking into Jennifer Lopez’s 55th birthday bash, posted on July 23, 2024 | Source: Instagram/elderordonez1
Another video depicted Lopez’s mom retrieving gifts from the trunk of a white car with the help of a man who was dressed dapperly for the occasion. Upon seeing the footage of Rodríguez at the party, many took to social media to express disdain for her outfit.
Guadalupe Rodríguez retrieving gifts from a car, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/elderordonez1
“So tacky!!!” criticized an Instagrammer. Similarly, another echoed, “[Lol] – nothing like a gown and a cross body bag. Jenny’s mom from the hood – tacky.” Someone else chimed in with, “Why all the Target dresses?”
Jumping on the critique bandwagon, an observer noted, “You’re not English you are too old for dressing up!!!!” Amid the vitriol came a fan who defended, “I think there’s no age for happiness. People [should] be able to do [whatever] they want. Regardless if you like them or not.”
However, others drew their attention to another element featured at Lopez’s party that caused further contention. The “On the Floor” artist rented beautiful white horses that pulled a horse carriage that looked as though it came straight out of a fairytale.
The horse carriage at Jennifer Lopez’s 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 22, 2024 | Source: Instagram/elderordonez1
More video footage showed the majestic animals lugging the white carriage, which was operated by a worker, down the street. Much like how people criticized Rodríguez’s dress, they expressed their issues with the horse carriage.
The horse carriage at Jennifer Lopez’s 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 22, 2024 | Source: Instagram/elderordonez1
“I love her but not anymore this is insane cruelty !!!!!! Those poor horses #dobetter,” chastised a social media user. Another penned, “Why???? So disappointed,” while someone else simply asserted, “Very sad.”
Lopez herself couldn’t even catch a break, as another user also made it known how unimpressed they were by the star’s outfit. The powerhouse performer’s ensemble was just as dazzling as the party itself.
Jennifer Lopez posing for a picture during her 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/jlo
She donned a gorgeous ballroom, corseted, and turquoise layered gown that featured beautiful intricate gold detailing. Lopez paired her regal look with delicate, see-through white gloves that ended just above her elbows and very high-heeled gold shoes.
Jennifer Lopez posing for a picture at her 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/onthejlo
Exuding queen energy as the belle of the ball, Lopez, who sat on a gold throne, accessorized her look with a stunning necklace and diamond stud earrings.
Jennifer Lopez having fun with guests at her 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/onthejlo
She went all out with her hair, too, fashioning it into a beautifully big curled bun. Topping off the look, she placed a brown-colored flower crown/hairband on top of her head.
Jennifer Lopez at her 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/onthejlo
In the comment section of a post showing Lopez looking like a queen, a netizen remarked, “Cringy.” However, others praised her for how beautiful she looked. “Too gorgeous,” swooned an admirer, while another gushed, “That dress is breathtaking ✨.”
Jennifer Lopez posing for a picture at her 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/onthejlo
Boasting about her amazing birthday party, Lopez took to Instagram to share a reel of special moments from the affair. Snapshots begin with showing the white horses before a transition to the live orchestra that was hired, who played modernized baroque music.
The orchestra that played live at Jennifer Lopez’s 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/jlo
Another moment captured shows guests emulating “Bridgerton” dances on the wooden dance floor that featured a striking emblem in the middle of it.
Dancers doing a “Bridgerton” dance during Jennifer Lopez’s 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/jlo
From there, the video transitions into snapshots of Lopez posing for the camera in her beautiful dress. Such images also highlighted the stunning flowers used to embellish the venue with aesthetics and elegance.
Photos also showed Lopez posing with her loved ones before the video changed to reveal more footage of guests dancing the night away and continuing to take photos with the birthday girl.
Jennifer Lopez posing for pictures with guests during her 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/jlo
Another standout moment shows Lopez belting out some chords with a drink in her hand. Ending with a bang, the last moment in the video shows the star excitedly blowing out the candles of her big layered cake after making a wish.
Jennifer Lopez blowing out her birthday candles during her 55th birthday celebration, posted on July 24, 2024 | Source: Instagram/jlo
In true “Bridgerton” fashion, Lopez captioned, “Dearest Gentle Reader… And a splendid evening was had by all.” At some point during the evening, she changed into a second dress. This gown was a gorgeous lime-colored dress that had trains of tulle added to it.
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Inside Rory Feek’s Cliffside Wedding with Daughter’s Teacher after the Death of His 1st Wife
Country singer Rory Feek has found love again, eight years after the heartbreaking loss of his beloved wife, Joey Feek. He has tied the knot with Rebecca, a lady who has been teaching his 10-year-old daughter.
Newly wedded couple Rory Fleek and Rebecca | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
Rory recently shared the joyous news that he has tied the knot with Rebecca, a dedicated schoolteacher who has been teaching his daughter, Indiana Feek, for years. This heartwarming union was made even more special by the encouragement of Indiana herself.
Inside Rory Feek and Rebecca’s wedding | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
In the touching blog post, Rory opened up about the beautiful journey that led him and Rebecca to this special moment. He revealed that the idea of marrying Rebecca began as a simple song, a seed planted in his heart by God as he strummed his guitar.
Inside Rory Feek and Rebecca’s wedding | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
Despite their deepening relationship, Rory and Rebecca had been cautious about discussing marriage, especially considering Indiana’s profound love for her late mother. The turning point came one morning in late March. As usual, Rebecca arrived at the farmhouse to take Indy to school, but that day, something extraordinary happened.
Rebecca walking down the aisle | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
After their customary morning prayer, they stepped out but soon after, they both returned to the kitchen. Rebecca then told Rory that Indiana had something to tell them. With all the innocence and wisdom of a child, she asked, “Ms. Rebecca, I think you should marry Papa.”
Indiana, Rory and Rebecca | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
Rory was caught off guard but deeply moved. Indiana explained her reasoning, saying, “My Mama’s been gone a long time. And if she marries you, maybe she could be my new mother.” Overwhelmed with emotion, Rory knew this was a sign. After much prayer and heartfelt conversation, the couple decided to take this brave step forward.
Rory and Rebecca exchanging vows | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
The wedding took place on a sunny Sunday afternoon, July 14, in the picturesque town of Greycliff, Montana, held under a beautiful timber-frame pavilion.
Rory and Rebecca exchanging vows | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
The ceremony was a surprise to many of their family and friends, who were thrilled to join in the celebration despite the short notice. Rory’s gift to Rebecca was a beautiful song that he had worked on since April.
Rory and Rebecca exchanging vows | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
As Rory Feek reflected on the day, he expressed his gratitude for the chance to love again and to make Rebecca happy. The country singer explained how incredibly blessed he felt to have found a new partner to share his life with, and to create new memories with his daughter, Indiana.
Rebecca on her wedding day | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
In Rory’s own words, “I found myself thinking about how blessed I was to be given the opportunity to love again. To not only feel loved but to get the chance to give love again. To be the one who gets to spend my life making Rebecca happy.”
Rory singing a wedding song to Rebecca | Source: YouTube/@RoryFeek
Rory has found the courage to marry again eight years after losing his wife Joey to cancer at the age of 40. Joey passed away on March 4, 2016, leaving an indelible mark on Rory’s life. In a deeply moving blog post, Rory recounted her final moments and the profound impact she had on him and their family.
“My wife’s greatest dream came true today,” Rory wrote, capturing the bittersweet solace he found in Joey’s passing. “She is in Heaven. The cancer is gone, the pain has ceased, and all her tears are dry. Joey is in the arms of her beloved brother Justin and using her pretty voice to sing for her savior,” he penned.
The singer revealed that Joey took her last breath at 2:30 p.m. surrounded by her praying family. In her final moments, Rory held her hand and kissed her goodbye.
Joey Martin Feek and Rory Lee Feek attend The ACM Experience during the 48th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards at the Orleans Arena on April 6, 2013, in Las Vegas, Nevada. | Source: Getty Images
Despite the many tears of sorrow, Rory also recounted countless tears of joy and beautiful moments that filled the difficult time. “When a person has been through as much pain and struggle as Joey’s been through, you just want it to be over,” he explained.
Rory Lee Feek and Joey Martin Feek arrives at the 48th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on April 7, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Joey’s funeral service was a deeply emotional event, held in a grove of sassafras trees behind their farmhouse. Friends and family gathered to say goodbye to the woman Rory described as “the greatest person I have ever known.”
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How Did Richard Simmons Look in His Final Public Photo?
Richard Simmons didn’t pass away without leaving a memory for his fans worldwide. The beloved fitness icon, who died on July 13, left a heartfelt message and photo shared by his staff on X, formerly Twitter, on July 20. He also gave a final interview just days before his death.
A fan’s comment on Richard Simmons’ final photo, posted in July 2024 | Source: Instagram/people
Simmons’ staff explained in a heartfelt statement, “As you know, on the weekends, he would just share a photo with a caption. He always chose his photos and wrote his captions for the upcoming weekend by Friday. So we have the post Richard planned to share with you last Sunday. We thought you’d want to see it.”
Richard Simmons at the Friend Movement Campaign benefit concert in Los Angeles on July 1, 2013 | Source: Getty Images
The final post, meant for July 14, 2024, showed Simmons smiling with gray hair, dressed in a bright orange NASA space suit, standing in front of a colorful wall. His caption read, “Let me fly you to the moon so we can gaze among the stars. Love, Richard.”
Upon seeing this post, fans quickly reacted with an outpouring of emotions, reflecting on the joy and inspiration Simmons brought into their lives. One fan poignantly noted, “This brought tears to my eyes. Such a special person- he is missed.” Another said, “He looked at peace,” while someone else remarked, “Icon- he brought joy and fitness.”
A fourth stated, “Seeing him with gray hair is so sweet and sad.” This fan also expressed that Simmons sought a break from his lifelong entertainment career, which many were reluctant to grant him. They felt relief that he finally found peace, rest, and privacy before his passing.
More heartfelt reactions followed. “He looked good,” a supporter said, while another commented, “One of the best pictures I’ve ever seen of him.”
An admirer shared, “I always sensed this deep within him inner sadness. I think that’s why he devoted his life to making people feel better about themselves and make them laugh. RIP.”
Richard Simmons at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards, Barclays Center, Brooklyn, on August 25, 2013 | Source: Getty Images
The emotional responses continued, as some expressed their gratitude and sorrow. “Thank you for sharing this with us. I miss him so much!” a fan expressed, while another stated, “Richard was an incredible man! He was one of a kind! He will be missed!”
Amid these tributes, the memory of Simmons’ final interview, just two days before his death, provides a deeper understanding of his legacy. He reflected on his life and career, acknowledging his fans’ enduring love and support, despite his retreat from public life.
Richard Simmons speaks on exercise and nutrition at the LAUSD Nutrition Network’s Third Annual Nutrition Advisory Council Symposium at California State University, Los Angeles, on June 16, 2004. | Source: Getty Images
Simmons addressed his disappearance from the spotlight. “Well, when I decided to retire, it was because my body told me I needed to retire. I have spent time just reflecting on my life. All of the books I wrote, the videos. I never was like, ‘Oh look what I’ve done.’ My thing was, ‘Oh, look how many people I helped,'” he explained.
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How Did Users React to Meghan Markle’s Expensive Oufit?
Meghan Markle effortlessly exuded luxury in the chic ensemble she was seen wearing on Sunday, July 21. The Duchess of Sussex was photographed leaving an Italian restaurant called Tre Lune in Montecito with famous actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley. Photos of Meghan quickly drew attention online for all the wrong reasons.
User comment about Meghan Markle, posted on July 23, 2024 | Source: X/@travelwriter33
Pictures of the duo showed them laughing and chatting away as they left the trendy spot near her and Prince Harry’s $14.5 million mansion. For the girls’ day out, Meghan donned a pricey ensemble as she was dressed head-to-toe in designer labels.
She sported a white “Mika” shirt designed by Anine Bing that cost $271.51 (€250), which she tucked into her $195 “Molly High-Rise Straight” mom jeans from La Ligne. Meghan paired her look with chic beige Chanel ballet flats made from Lambskin. These shoes cost $1,059.19 (£820) online.
Meghan completed her look with a stunning black Christian Dior handbag called the “Medium Lady D-Lite Bag,” $180 Aviator sunglasses from Ray-Ban, and gorgeous jewels from Cartier, Lorraine Schwartz, and Ariel Gordon, which reportedly comes to a total of $68,712.06 (£53,200).
The gold necklace she fastened around her neck, dubbed the “Juste un Clou Necklace,” is made from yellow gold and set with brilliant-cut diamonds.
Her beautiful necklace reportedly has a total of 3.17 carats. The businesswoman also donned a $20,652.52 (£15,994.08) eye-catching bracelet from jewelry powerhouse Lorraine Schwartz called the “Against Evil Eye Five Eye Diamond Pave Bracelet,” which features 18K white gold and Topaz.
Her stunning $22,300 “Tank Française” gold watch, designed by none other than Cartier, is cased in 18K yellow gold and decorated with a sapphire cabochon. Sticking with Cartier, Meghan also sported a beautiful gold bracelet called the “Love Bracelet,” which cost $5,300.
Last, but certainly not least, she paired her “Juste un Clou Necklace” with another one from Ariel Gordon. This stunning jewelry piece is called the “Imperial Disc Pendant Necklace,” which features a 1.2 mm diamond cut twisted rope chain.
Its price ranges from $1,770 to $2,555 depending on the choice of stone and number of engraving fields. Meghan’s one is engraved with her children’s names, Archie and Lilibet. She also wore her gorgeous $350,018.18 (£271,000) engagement ring.
Kimberly, on the other hand, kept her outfit casual, rocking a striking blue button-down dress and white sneakers. The duo dined at the fancy A-list restaurant that charges around $30 for a main course and is known for its delicious cuisine and impressive wine selection as well, before leaving the venue.
Upon seeing photos of Meghan during her outing, many people took to online platforms to assert their opinions. Some seemed to think that there was something amiss with her neck. “What’s up with her neck?? 😬,” questioned an X user.
Meghan Markle during her and Prince Harry’s Nigerian tour in Abuja, Nigeria on May 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Another added, “Remembered to PULL her SHIRT WIDE OPEN show her scrawny neck off, 🙄🤡.” Other spectators believe that Meghan had actually gone so far as to organize for the paparazzi to take photos of her during her excursion as a purposeful cry for attention.
Meghan Markle during the SXSW 2024 Conference and Festivals in Austin, Texas on March 8, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
“As predicted a pap walk occurs as Prince George’s birthday picture comes out. I seriously think she doesn’t realize how pathetic this is. Pictures were obviously taken earlier and timed to be released with George’s birthday photos,” asserted a social media user.
Prince George during the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee in London, England on June 5, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Echoing a similar sentiment, someone else noted, “Meghan is so insecure over [an] [11-year-old’s] birthday photo that she [does] yet another car park pap shot. She is beyond a joke 🤡.” Another person simply expressed, “It’s actually sad now.”
Prince George at the traditional Easter Sunday Mattins Service at St George’s Chapel in Windsor, England on April 9, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
A group of people pointed out that Meghan’s outfit looked similar to one worn by her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. “Pap walk dressed once again in a Princess Diana outfit copy,” remarked someone on X.
On the other hand, a fan gushed, “Mummy ❤️,” alongside two side-by-side photos of Meghan Markle and Princess Diana in similar-looking outfits.
Princess Diana during her visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina on the Balkan Peninsula on August 9, 1997 | Source: Getty Images
“🥴She looks like a wrinkled, thrift shopper mess!” criticized a social media user. However, one admirer came to Meghan’s defense, praising, “She looks like wealth. What a gorgeous girl Meghan Markle is. 😍 #MeghanMarkle #HarryandMeghanAreLoved #PrinceHarryandMeghan #WeLoveyouMeghan.”
Meghan Markle during day 2 of the Invictus Games in The Hague, Netherlands on April 17, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
While Meghan’s outing may have occurred a day before Prince George’s birthday, it is unknown whether or not this was strategically planned, as some people had suggested.
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Why Was Ryan Reynolds & Blake Lively’s Youngest Child’s Name Criticized?
Ryan Reynolds has once again charmed fans by revealing the name of his and wife Blake Lively’s youngest child. The big reveal happened on July 22 during the highly anticipated “Deadpool & Wolverine” premiere in New York.
A fan comment about Ryan and Blake’s children’s names dated July 23, 2024 | Source: Instagram/entertainmenttonight
As Ryan stepped on stage with his co-stars, he took a heartfelt moment to acknowledge his beloved wife, Blake, and the support she provides. “I want to start by saying thank you to my wife Blake, who is here,” Ryan began, drawing a warm reaction from the audience.
Ryan Reynolds speaking on stage during the “Deadpool & Wolverine” premiere in New York. | Source: YouTube/@PhaseZero
He added a playful note about her outfit, saying, “Her outfit is amazing—spoiler alert,” which elicited laughter from the crowd. In a touching tribute, Ryan also expressed his love for their children: daughters James, Inez, and Betty, as well as their fourth child, Olin.
“I want to thank my kids James, Inez, Betty, and Olin, who are here: I hope that, if I’m lucky, this moment will be the most traumatic thing—that is, the contents of this movie—that happens in your wondrous life,” he said with a smile, adding, “I love that my entire family is here.”
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds attend the world premiere of “Deadpool & Wolverine” at Lincoln Center on July 22, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
The revelation of their fourth child’s name, Olin, has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Fans have been quick to share their thoughts, with opinions ranging from puzzled to appreciative.
“Seriously with these names? Yeesh!” exclaimed one surprised fan. Another echoed the sentiment, “I’m sorry, I love these two, but the names they pick for their kids… These girls are going to struggle.”
A fan comment about Ryan and Blake’s children’s names dated July 23, 2024 | Source: Facebook/peoplemag
Some even found humor in the name choice, with one person joking, “Ha ha.. weird name. My Mom worked for Olin Winchester for years.. that’s all I can think of.” Another even joked, “Loving the hillbilly names.”
One critic harshly noted, “I’m sorry. All their children’s names are horrible.” Another asked, “Is it me, or do they have the most random and worst names for their kids?”
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds attend the world premiere of “Deadpool & Wolverine” at Lincoln Center on July 22, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
However, not all reactions were critical. Some fans embraced the uniqueness of the name. “Olin is such a weird but cute name,” wrote one admirer. Another commented, “Olin is a nice name.” Curiosity about the baby’s gender also flooded the comments, with many fans eagerly asking, “Is it a boy or a girl?”
While Ryan and Blake have revealed the name of their fourth child, the baby’s gender remains a mystery. Back in February 2023, when Olin was born, Ryan made an appearance on “POWER LUNCH.”
When one of the hosts inquired about the baby’s gender, Ryan laughed and quipped, “I ain’t telling. This isn’t a birth announcement.” He clarified their approach by adding, “We didn’t make a birth announcement. We just posted a photo and the media sought of did what it does.”
Ryan’s revelation of their fourth child’s name has been eagerly awaited. In May, during an appearance on the “TODAY” show, he dropped a hint about the toddler’s name.
Co-host Savannah Guthrie asked if he could share the name or if they should wait for Taylor Swift to reveal it in one of her songs, as she had done with the names of Ryan and Blake’s older children on one of her albums.
When asked if Taylor had hinted at the baby’s name on her latest album, Ryan humorously replied, “We always wait for Taylor to tell us what the child’s name is, and I’ll say this: We’re still waiting.”
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And that’s a wrap for this week’s Friday Digest! Netizens were captivated by celebrity highlights, discovering Richard Simmons’s final photo and interview, as well as Meghan Markle’s pricey outfit. Adding to the mix, the public now knows that the Reynolds-Lively household’s fourth baby is named Olin.
Jennifer Lopez’s “Bridgerton”-themed birthday bash and Rory Feek’s second chance at marriage have also added to the buzz. It’s been an eventful week. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and stories next week!