sparks

Stating that she fears for her life, Sparks forward Rickea Jackson has filed a petition for protection against her ex-boyfriend, Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr.

Miami-Dade (Fla.) County Judge Heloiza Correa granted Jackson’s initial request for protection Feb. 9, and a permanent injunction hearing is set for April 21. Pearce is under order not to have contact with Jackson or come within 500 feet of her home or place of employment.

“James has threatened to kill me, James has threatened to harm me, James has threatened to injure me, James has threatened to place a bag over my head, and James has verbally and physically abused me on more than one occasion,” Jackson wrote in her statement to the court.

Jackson, 24, also filed notice with the court that she is willing to testify against Pearce. Her original petition for injunction for protection against dating violence — essentially a restraining order — was filed two days after Pearce’s arrest Feb. 7 for allegedly ramming his Lamborghini SUV into her car more than once, and doing the same to a police car in Doral, Fla.

Pearce, 22, faces felony charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, aggravated battery and fleeing from a police officer. He also faces a misdemeanor charge of resisting an officer and nine traffic violations.

“Mr. Pearce maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that it is hardly the full, complete story,” Pearce’s attorney, Jacob Nunez, told AP shortly after the arrest. “We look forward to vigorously defending our client.”

In a court filing, Jackson said that she broke up with Pearce weeks before the incident that led to his arrest. She said Pearce offered her $200,000 to remain in a relationship with him and that his behavior toward her became increasingly alarming. According to ESPN, at least seven other 911 calls to police ⁠in the months before the Feb. 7 incident reported Pearce to be stalking or harassing an unnamed girlfriend.

A police report says the relationship between Jackson and Pearce began three years ago when both were star athletes at Tennessee.

Pearce was taken by the Falcons in the first round of the 2025 draft with a pick acquired from the Rams. The 6-foot-5, 243-pound edge rusher finished third for AP Defensive Rookie of the Year after recording 10.5 sacks.

Jackson was a first-round pick of the Sparks in 2024. The 6-2 forward emerged as a star in her second season, picking up MVP votes after averaging 14.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists.

“She’s a smooth person, smooth athlete, smooth basketball player,” Sparks coach Lynne Roberts said in 2025. “She makes hard things look really easy … she makes things look effortless, and I know they’re not.”

The relationship between Jackson and Pearce became volatile in January when the Falcons star admitted in a police report obtained by ESPN that he thought Jackson was cheating on him.

The Feb. 7 incident was described in Jackson’s court filing and a police report. Jackson was attempting to get away from Pearce, who followed her in his car, tried to open her car door at a stop and slammed into her car more than once while she tried to enter the Doral Police Department parking lot “because I knew James was going to hurt me,” Jackson said.

An officer pulled a gun on Pearce and ordered him to get on the ground. However, Pearce jumped back into his car. The officer attempted to open the door, but Pearce shut it and drove away, his car clipping an officer’s left knee.

Police gave chase and Pearce crashed at an intersection before fleeing on foot. Officers said that they caught up with him and he resisted arrest. He was released after posting a $20,500 bond.

Veteran presenter Eamonn Holmes appeared to fall asleep at his GB News desk during his morning segment, leading to viewers sharing their concerns for the star

Eamonn Holmes has sparked concern over his well-being after appearing to fall asleep during his morning slot on GB News. The Northern Irish presenter, 66, has had a tough few years when it comes to his health, and his latest appearance has led to fans being worried about the veteran.

Eamonn was presenting his morning show on the channel during an interview with Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, Darren Jones MP. But he apeared to nod off momentarily during the conversation.

The host was seen fiddling his his microphone before seemingly zoning out and closing his eyes. A few seconds later, he lifted his head and focused back on his sound kit and mobile phone.

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Co-host Ellie Costello continued with the chat, but Eamonn’s antics are said to have caused concern among staff. A source speaking to The Sun said: “It hasn’t gone unnoticed that Eamonn has been struggling a lot more lately

“Today he was falling asleep on air and slurring his words. There were lots of messages coming in about it.”

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Fans were quick to share their own concern online after the chat. One user wrote: “Please help Eamonn Holmes. He’s obviously struggling, falling asleep this morning. Slurring his words. The guy needs medical assistance!!”

Another said: “Why is Eamonn Holmes basically falling asleep on air? He looks either off his face or just so tired he can’t stay awake!” And a third added: ““Concerned Eamonn Holmes seems more slurry than usual.”

Eamonn’s health concerns have been well documented in recent years. He first shared his chronic pain diagnosis in 2021. The issue was initially caused when he dislocated his pelvis. He slipped three discs and then broke his shoulder during his recovery period.

Speaking on the Session 7 podcast, Eamonn previously explained: “I’m sick. I’m in a wheelchair. That’s been horrendous to deal with for two years.

“Certainly I don’t think TV wants to know you when, I mean there’s nothing you and I are talking and no one can there’s anything wrong but I can’t get up.”

He admitted that he required daily care. However, he insisted that once he is sat in his wheelchair, he is still able to “do everything”.

Eamonn went on to acknowledge that the wider world struggles to “deal with” people with disabilities, particularly in regards to providing the appropriate accommodations.

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SINGER Anne-Marie has sparked concern after branding herself a “wreck” in a new social media message.

The star tweeted a lengthy message in which she also suggested people “wouldn’t care” about her “emotional” struggles.

Anne-Marie, 34, took to X earlier today to share the rare personal message in which she also addressed her parenting struggles and ‘mum-guilt’ amid attempts to revive her fledgling music career.

The star began by writing: “Feeling emotional today. Sorry I been distant.

“Not sure if you care but I do. I’m working really hard to get this right.”

Her concerning post continued as she addressed her compromising work-life balance.

TOUGH TIME

Anne-Marie says she felt ‘mad’ & like a ‘bad mum’ but was scared to ask for help

CIAO OLD ME

Anne-Marie promises ‘spicy’ new album and reveals star she turns to for advice

The Ciao Adios singer penned: “Still figuring out how to be a good mum AND write the best album you’ve heard from me. It’s intense.

“I want to post, but I look and feel like a wreck most of the time.”

She added: “I know you don’t care about that though hahah.

“I miss you all so much and hope you are feeling as happy as you can be.”

Anne-Marie signed off her message by posting: “A cuddle is needed.”

The mum-of-two’s post sparked worry among her fans as many rushed to check in on the performer and insist they “do care” after her troubling words.

One said to her: “Anne marie you never ever need to apologise for being distant. You’re balancing being a mum, being human, and creating something beautiful for all of us that’s a lot for anyone.”

Another echoed: “We all care about you so much. You prioritise yourself, your health and your family.”

Another alarmed fan penned: “I’m proud of you. Speaking out is already so brave.”

Before a fourth went on to comment: “You didn’t have to force yourself, we care about it and care about you. Take care yourself and kids love u.”

Anne-Marie welcomed her first child with rapper husband Slowthai in February 2024 months before he faced a trial relating to charges of rape.

Her partner faced a criminal trial later that year whilst she was pregnant with their second child.

Slowthai was ultimately found not guilty of the crimes.

The couple’s second child was born in April last year.

The singer has been attempting to head back to the top of the charts after her latest single released failed to make a dent on the singles charts.

Her latest single, Depressed, managed to reach number 41 – a far cry from her top ten streak of hits eight years ago.

A collaboration with Aitch, also released last year, also failed to chart.

Speaking to The Sun last year, she affirmed her plans to continue working on her fourth album despite recent setbacks.

She told us: “Next year there will be new music.

“I think I need to switch it up a bit… Will I be rapping? Who knows.

“I am definitely switching it up.

“I need to make it exciting again, you know.

“I can’t just come back as the same Anne Marie I have been for ten years.

“I am going to do a little spice.”

ITV stars Susanna Reid and Ed Balls caused mixed reactions from Good Morning Britain viewers.

Good Morning Britain viewers were less than impressed with the ITV show during Wednesday’s episode (March 4)

During the programme, presenter Ed Balls informed his co-star Susanna Reid, who recently addressed a mistake on the show, that he had made a Shepherd’s Pie for dinner on Tuesday night with beef mince.

He replied: “That’s what proper Shepherd’s Pie is-” Cutting him off, Susanna replied: “No, Shepherd’s Pie is with lamb mince. You made a cottage pie!”

Ed added: “If we did a poll of our viewers, in their lives, was Shepherd’s Pie made with beef or lamb’, 70% of people would say beef.”

Wanting to settle the debate, Good Morning Britain’s official X account asked their viewers in a poll.

They asked: “@edballs has revealed that he made a shepherd’s pie with beef mince last night, but @susannareid100, @Kevin_Maguire and Kwasi Kwarteng say Ed made a cottage pie. Help us settle the debate: Is it OK to make shepherd’s pie with beef mince?”

However, it was clear people weren’t thrilled with the question, as many flocked to comment on the topic.

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One person said: “What utter garbage for a news or even a current affairs programme.” Another reeled: “Is this even a newsworthy debate: how or what Balls cooks for dinner?”

Someone else commented: “That’s your take on world news.” As another shared: “This is taking up airtime. Wtf.”

However, some fans were thrilled to take part in the debate, as one person commented: “Morning, I’m with Ed. I don’t eat Lamb, but I’ve had many tasty Shepherds pies, made with beef.”

Later on in the show, Susanna remarked: “We are losing sleep this morning on whether a pie topped with potato and mince is a Shepherd’s Pie, if it’s made with beef mince.

“My view is that it’s clearly a cottage pie, your view is that it’s clearly a Shepherd’s Pie, despite the fact that Shepherds don’t look after cows.”

While Ed insisted that he was correct, there are some people who are a ‘bit fussy’ over what is correct.

Speaking about the poll, Susanna added: “Obviously, we’re in the middle of conflict, and there are, as we understand, more important things to talk about. But, we’re on air for three and a half hours every morning, so real life does go on, doesn’t it?

“We put a Twitter poll up, help us settle the debate: is it OK to make Shepherd’s Pie with beef mince? No, 63.4%, of course it isn’t.”

Good Morning Britain is available to watch weekdays on ITV from 6am.

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Videos show smoke rising from a refinery operated by Saudi Aramco after a fire broke out, which Saudi officials say was caused by debris from an intercepted Iranian missile. Oil prices have surged sharply amid the disruption and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears over global supply.

A major airport sparked debate around airport dress codes when it announced it wanted to become the “world’s first Crocs-free AND pyjama-free airport”, and travellers have been left divided by the X post

A major airport has ignited controversy over appropriate airport clothing with an X post declaring “We’ve had enough.” Tampa International Airport took to X (formerly Twitter ) yesterday (February 26) with an announcement claiming it aspired to become the “world’s first Crocs-free AND pajama-free airport”.

The post opened with the declaration “We’ve seen enough. We’ve had enough.” before stating “The madness stops today.” The airport took aim at travellers sporting pyjamas in broad daylight, encouraging people to have a “difficult conversation” with relatives who might be guilty of such a fashion misstep, reports the Express.

While the airport went on to confirm to USA Today that the post was lighthearted, it nevertheless triggered a discussion about appropriate flying attire and whether dress codes ought to be enforced.

Its statement explained: “Tampa International Airport regularly shares lighthearted, satirical social media content as part of our ongoing effort to engage with our followers. Today’s post about ‘banning’ pajamas was another playful nod to day-of-travel fashion debates. We encourage our passengers to travel comfortably and appreciate our loyal followers who enjoy the online humor.”

While airports typically don’t enforce dress codes, there have been cases where passengers have been refused boarding or removed from planes based on their attire. In 2024, two women sporting crop tops were removed from a Spirit Airlines flight leaving Los Angeles after declining to cover up with their jumpers.

In 2025, the budget carrier updated its contract of carriage, warning that travellers who are “barefoot or inadequately clothed” could face boarding refusal or removal from the aircraft. Spirit’s terms and conditions specify this includes “see-through clothing; [being] not adequately covered; exposed breasts, buttocks, or other private parts”.

The airline also prohibits clothing and body art deemed “lewd, obscene, or offensive in nature” and states it may refuse boarding to passengers with “an offensive odor unless caused by a qualified disability”.

British airlines and airports haven’t yet introduced clothing regulations, apart from suggestions to dress comfortably, though certain airport lounges do have dress codes. No1 Lounges, which operates facilities at major hubs including London Gatwick and Heathrow, states on its website: “Yes, we have a dress code in place. We ask all our guests to wear smart-casual clothing.

“Our dress code stipulates that we reserve the right to refuse admission to anyone wearing clothing which we deem to be unsuitable. This includes themed or fancy-dress outfits, clothes with slogans that may cause offence, sports shirts, beach flip flops, vests, and clothing that exposes midriffs or upper thighs.

“Our My Lounge spaces are designed to be a little more relaxed and informal, encouraging guests to dress comfortably and express their individuality. Casual clothing, trainers, flip flops, and athleisure are welcome at My Lounge.” The policy does clarify, however, that unsuitable items such as fancy dress are still banned in these areas.

Despite its tongue-in-cheek tone, Tampa International Airport’s social media post ignited discussion about appropriate flying attire. One commenter enthused: “I love this! Let’s go back to the way it was in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s!”, accompanied by vintage photographs showing impeccably dressed passengers from bygone eras.

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Another countered: “I’ll dress nice again when we’re not treated like cattle at the airport and on the plane.” While contributor questioned: “How are you even classifying clothing as pajamas to begin with? Are sweatpants, yoga pants, children wearing soft clothes pajamas?”.

Would you back dress codes at airports and on airplanes? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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ITV2’s The Heat sees aspiring chefs vying to impress award-winning cook Jean-Christophe Novelli

Tensions are already mounting just two episodes into ITV’s brand new reality competition, The Heat.

Fronted by Olivia Attwood, the culinary programme follows ten ambitious chefs working in an upmarket Barcelona restaurant led by award-winning cook Jean-Christophe Novelli.

The determined group are challenged with operating the restaurant daily in a bid to impress Jean-Christophe.

But it’s not just their kitchen exploits that take centre stage, cameras also track the young competitors on evenings out as well as during their leisure time.

Wednesday’s (February 25) episode saw unexpected drama unfolding between the chefs as Seren and Kat both developed feelings for the same bloke, reports the Daily Star.

Whilst visiting a local Spanish bar, Seren confided in her close mates that she fancies Djordje but there’s a complication. She said: “I think he’s very fit. However, he likes Kat.”

The fashion marketing student went on to disclose that she had noticed chemistry developing between Kat and Djordje when they worked on the pastry section together during the day.

Seren later acknowledged her genuine feelings in the confessional room, saying: “I would love to tell you that I’m deeply happy for them, but do I wish it was me? Possibly.”

The Buckinghamshire chef had already revealed her feelings to Djordje the previous night, but that didn’t prevent Kat from making her own advance.

Kat even recognised that her connection with Djordje could create a rift with her co-star. “Seren told Djordje last night that she liked him,” she said.

“So I am feeling a little bit awkward. I don’t want to be stepping on toes.”

Despite her reservations, Kat and Djordje subsequently enjoyed a flirtatious conversation and chose to leave together.

Wakefield-born Djordje then discussed their budding connection, revealing: “I had an amazing chat with Kat tonight, it went exactly as I planned.”

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Yet he made it clear she wasn’t his sole focus. “But you know me, my doors are always still open. I’m here to have fun in Barcelona,” the chef remarked.

Meanwhile, Seren remained optimistic about her chances with the tattooed chef. She confided to producers: “It’s not over yet.”

A preview for episode three hints at the fallout from Kat and Djordje’s evening together, though viewers will need to tune in to discover whether Seren will make her move to gain the advantage.

The Heat continues on ITV2 and ITVX tomorrow at 9pm

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