Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.
An unseen photograph of Meghan Markle has been shared by former Suits co-star Patrick J Adams, triggering a debate on social media on whether she’ll join a mini reunion of the show’s actors.
Adams and Markle played an on-screen couple Mike Ross and Rachel Zane in the legal drama series – and had a strong friendship away from the cameras with Adams invited to the Sussexes’ royal wedding in 2018.
Now, Adams has posted 10 behind-the-scenes Suits images on Instagram, including a black and white image of Meghan.
Fans began asking Adams on social media to invite Meghan, who quit Suits ahead of marrying Prince Harry, to the reunion.
It comes as King Charles enjoyed an Indian spa break while on his way home from his tour of Australia and Samoa.
The King, who is receiving treatment in his battle with cancer, stayed at the SOUKYA resort in Bengaluru in India which describes itself as a “holistic health destination to restore your body’s natural balance of mind, body and spirit”.
Meanwhile, an ITV documentary aired on Wednesday night about a homelessness campaign led by Prince William, in which he shares an anecdote about visiting a homeless charity with his mother, Diana, and brother, Harry.
Prince William faces uncomfortable moment in homelessness documentary
Prince William has faced an uncomfortable moment during the premiere of his documentary, Prince William: We Can End Homelessness, which aired its first part last tonight.
In the film, the Prince of Wales, 42, was confronted by Lord John Bird, founder of The Big Issue, who challenged him to address the “failed thinking” surrounding homelessness.
Lord Bird bluntly stated he wanted no “b******t” in their discussions, urging the prince to spearhead a new approach through his Homewards programme – an ambitious initiative aiming to end homelessness within five years.
“We need the expertise of everybody,” Lord Bird said during their meeting in episode one.
He criticised the fragmented efforts of local authorities, charities, and government departments over the past three decades.
William responded with an invitation for open dialogue, adding: “I’m conscious that it’s a team environment… please do feel free to pile in when you need to.”
To which Lord Bird replied: “I hope you mean that,” before jokingly adding: “Sorry, I’m jumping in.”
The Prince’s goal of ending homelessness has been inspired by his childhood experiences visiting shelters with his late mother, Princess Diana.
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 10:14
ICYMI: King’s ‘hot equerry’ Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson is engaged
Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson, affectionately dubbed the ‘hot equerry’, has announced his engagement to Olivia Lewis, his girlfriend of 18 months.
The announcement, first reported in The Times, has sent ripples through royal circles, as admirers of the dashing equerry come to terms with his impending nuptials.
The engagement announcement read: “The engagement is announced between Lieutenant Colonel Jonny Thompson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Alan Thompson of Morpeth, Northumberland, and Olivia Rose, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Simon Lewis OBE of Primrose Hill, London.”
You can read the full story below:
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 10:10
Tom Parker Bowles reveals reason he skips Christmas at Sandringham
Camilla’s son, Tom Parker Bowles, has opened up about the reason he does not spend Christmas at the Sandringham estate.
He revealed “various reasons” for not joining the royal festivities.
While the Royal Family has a longstanding tradition of gathering in Norfolk, the Queen’s son noted: “We are not the Royal Family.”
In a candid interview with PEOPLE, Tom said: “We’re married in… I’ve never for one second said that.” He expressed his appreciation for the Royal Family’s warmth but highlighted his own commitments: “I have my own job and the children have school.”
Despite not spending Christmas at Sandringham, Tom, along with his children – Lola, 17, and Freddy, 14 – celebrates with Queen Camilla and his father, Andrew Parker Bowles, a few days later.
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 09:50
WATCH: Prince William hits back at critics over homelessness project
Prince William hits back at critics over homelessness project
The Prince of Wales has hit back at critics over his homelessness project. William responded to those questioning whether he is the right person to tackle the issue, given his privileged upbringing, in the first part of his new ITV documentary, Prince William: We Can End Homelessness. William said: “I think everyone having a right to a safe home benefits us all. “I come with no other agenda than desperately trying to help people who are in need and I see that as part of my role, why else would I be here if I am not using this role properly to influence and help people while I can.”
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 09:30
Meghan Markle to ‘give blessing’ for royal reunion
Meghan Markle may be open to letting Princess Lilibet and Prince Archie meet King Charles, but only if security concerns are addressed.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have reportedly secured a new home in Portugal, have raised hopes for a closer relationship to the Royal Family without the pressure of UK visits.
Sources told Closer: “Now, if it is deemed safe from a security standpoint, it’s likely she’ll give her blessing for Harry to take Archie and Lilibet to see their grandpa, King Charles, at some point.
“And in terms of logistics, having a place in Portugal will make that easier, because Meghan can fly over with the kids without feeling trapped.”
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 09:10
Prince Harry speaks at Nato about Invictus Games charity
Prince Harry has addressed the Nato military committee to speak about his charity Invictus.
Appearing via video link from his Montecito mansion, the Duke of Sussex told members about “the breadth and development of the Invictus programme and the progress it is making to expand the scope of its mission”.
While Harry did not attend the conference in New York, a team from the Invictus Games foundation was sent.
The meeting comes a year after the Duke’s 2023 Invictus Games Netflix documentary ‘Heart of Invictus’ aired – which focused on wounded soldiers.
According to Nato, the delegation said: “The core purpose of Invictus is to support the recovery and rehabilitation of Wounded, Injured and Sick (WIS) Service Members through sport and adventure.
“The Invictus Games Foundation is working to continue establishing a global community where rehabilitation and recovery are better enabled and understood.”
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 08:50
Prince Harry urged to ‘eat humble pi’ to heal family rift
Prince Harry has received a three-word ultimatum to repair his strained relationship with the royal family, according to royal commentator Rupert Bell.
Mr Bell suggested that the Duke of Sussex must “eat humble pie” after his brother, Prince William, extended an olive branch in his upcoming ITV documentary about homelessness, set to air tonight.
During a discussion with royal podcast host Kinsey Schofield on her YouTube channel, the royal expert claimed that it would be “odd” if William did not mention Harry in the context of the documentary.
Critics are debating whether any reference to Prince Harry represents a gesture of reconciliation from William, especially given their tense relations since Harry stepped down as a working royal in 2020.
Mr Bell said: “They looked after each other, and that’s what’s so sad about it.”
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 08:30
The £3,000-a-week luxury spa resort King Charles has visited
With 21 deluxe rooms, private gardens and open-air showers, the SOUKYA spa resort looks to be the perfect stop-off for King Charles on his way back from his tour in Australia and Samoa.
The health care centre, spread over 30 acres of scented orchards, is a renowned resort for celebrity clientele, with the likes of Dame Emma Thompson and the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu having stayed there.
It’s been reported that King Charles and Queen Camilla have enjoyed morning yoga sessions along with rejuvenation treatments at the £3,000-a-week site.
The Palace issued a statement on Sunday revealing that King Charles will return to regular overseas trips next year as he adapts to living with cancer.
An update about the state of the King’s health or his treatment has not been given but the news that Charles will take on more overseas trips suggests his cancer is being managed successfully.
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 08:00
Charles and Camilla loved Bengaluru food so much they ‘plan to bring royal chefs for training’
King Charles and Queen Camilla are said to have expressed such fondness for the cuisine at their recent retreat in Bengaluru that they are considering bringing their royal chefs to India for training.
Dr. Isaac Mathai, who runs the renowned holistic destination, revealed that the royal couple is eager to learn how to replicate the delicious dishes they enjoyed during their stay.
Dr Mathai said: “They love the food to the extent that they are ready to bring down their royal chefs to India and train them – and have often expressed their wish to do so.”
“One time, she wanted us to pack the soup we make here and take it with her on her private jet, we of course agreed!”, he added during an interview at the lush, 30-acre institution, suggesting that she loves the leek soup made at the premises.
Dr Mathai also extended an open invitation for the royal couple to visit again, allowing for the pair to disconnect from the trials and tribulations of leading a life in public.
“Of course, we are very excited to see them again at Soukya. They are our least demanding guests and soak in every bit of our retreat… Be it the morning yoga, the sattvic food – which is strictly vegetarian – [or] the ayurveda treatments,” he said.
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 07:00
King’s ‘hot equerry’ Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson is engaged
Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Thompson, affectionately dubbed the ‘hot equerry’, has announced his engagement to Olivia Lewis, his girlfriend of 18 months.
The announcement, first reported in The Times, has sent ripples through royal circles, as admirers of the dashing equerry come to terms with his impending nuptials.
The engagement announcement read: “The engagement is announced between Lieutenant Colonel Jonny Thompson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Alan Thompson of Morpeth, Northumberland, and Olivia Rose, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Simon Lewis OBE of Primrose Hill, London.”
You can read more about the King’s ‘hot equerry’ below:
Salma Ouaguira31 October 2024 06:00
