Thailand Voices ‘Deep Disappointment’ with U.S. Over Border Conflict Comments

Paris Jackson is giving fans a rare look at the private relationship she shared with her late father, Michael Jackson. During a recent appearance on Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy podcast, the singer and actress opened up about growing up as the daughter of one of the most famous entertainers in the world. While much of her childhood was surrounded by intense public attention, Paris said her experience with her father was far more personal and ordinary behind closed doors. (Page Six⁠) Paris described Michael as a “funny guy” and recalled having a particularly close bond with him. She has also previously called her father her “best friend,” emphasizing that their relationship was deeply personal rather than simply a connection between a famous musician and his daughter. (E! Online⁠) Her comments offer a different perspective on the man the world knew as the King of Pop. For Paris, Michael was first and foremost her dad. Growing up, however, came with unusual rules. Paris and her brothers, Prince and Bigi, were raised with a strong emphasis on education, chores and discipline. Fun activities were often treated as rewards after they completed their responsibilities. Despite living at Neverland Ranch, Paris said the famous amusement attractions were not simply there for her and her siblings to enjoy whenever they wanted. (Page Six⁠) The family also took unusual measures to protect the children’s privacy. Paris and her brothers sometimes wore masks when they went out in public with their father. She explained that the masks allowed them to experience everyday activities without being immediately recognized as Michael Jackson’s children. (Page Six⁠) That secrecy was important because Paris did not initially understand just how enormous her father’s fame was. As a child, the world she knew was centered around her family, making Michael’s superstar status seem normal. Michael died in June 2009 when Paris was only 11. His death dramatically changed her life, and she has spoken openly about how difficult the years afterward became. Still, she has continued to protect the private memories she shares with her father. Earlier this year, Paris explained that she no longer feels obligated to publicly discuss her relationship with Michael or post tributes for the world to see. She said their bond is personal and does not belong to anyone else. (E! Online⁠) Her latest revelations reinforce that message. Behind the headlines, enormous fame and public scrutiny, Paris remembers Michael simply as her father — a funny man, a strict parent and, most importantly, her best friend.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s surprise return to the UK has sparked fresh questions about their financial future, particularly the fate of their lavish Montecito home. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are reportedly moving back to Britain with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, after six years in California. However, the couple are not currently planning to give up their American base. Several reports say they intend to keep their Montecito mansion, which they purchased for about $14.7 million in 2020. (People.com⁠) Despite those reports, speculation about a possible sale has intensified. A recent New York Post report claimed the Sussexes could eventually consider putting the property on the market because of its enormous running costs. The nine-bedroom estate reportedly carries more than $600,000 a year in mortgage payments and property taxes alone, before insurance, security and maintenance are added. Some local real-estate estimates suggest the property could now be worth considerably more than the couple originally paid. (New York Post⁠) The reports come as Harry and Meghan prepare for a major lifestyle change. Their children are expected to attend school in the UK, while the couple will establish a private British home. At the same time, they are expected to retain their California property and their vacation home in Portugal. (AP News⁠) That means the family could potentially be maintaining three properties across two countries. Financial pressure has therefore become part of the conversation surrounding their relocation. Page Six reported that the couple’s annual expenses could reach around $6 million, including staff, security, mortgages and other lifestyle costs. The publication also reported that their previous major entertainment deals have become less lucrative, with Spotify no longer involved and Netflix’s relationship reportedly reduced. (Page Six⁠) However, it is important to separate confirmed information from speculation. There is currently no confirmed public listing showing that the Montecito mansion is officially for sale. In fact, TMZ reported that the couple plans to keep the California property despite their UK move. People has similarly reported that the Sussexes intend to retain the mansion. (TMZ⁠) Another property has faced more direct sale speculation. In early August, The News reported claims that Harry and Meghan could consider selling their Portuguese retreat because of its ongoing costs. Those claims were based on unnamed sources and have not been independently confirmed by the couple. (thenews.com.pk⁠) For Meghan, the situation highlights the challenge of maintaining an expensive international lifestyle while building new income streams. Her As Ever brand remains an important part of her business plans, while Harry continues his charitable work. For now, the Montecito mansion remains in the Sussexes’ hands. Whether it eventually becomes “the one on the chopping block” remains uncertain, but their return to Britain has undoubtedly placed their property portfolio and finances under a much brighter spotlight.