Police piece together UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting suspect's escape route

Police piece together UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting suspect’s escape route

The gunman is thought to have fled into Central Park on an e-bike.

Police searching for the suspected killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson are investigating whether the alleged shooter prepositioned an e-bike close to the scene of the incident as a means of escape, police sources told ABC News.

A masked gunman carried out a “brazen, targeted attack” that was “premeditated,” NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said at a Wednesday news conference. The motive remains unknown, police said.

Detectives believe the gunman is not a professional killer, sources said. Bullet casings found at the scene had the words “deny,” “defend” and “depose” written on them, police sources said.

Thompson, 50, was in New York City for the UnitedHealthcare investors conference, which was scheduled to start at 8 a.m. His schedule was widely known, police sources said.

He was shot several times at close range outside the Hilton Hotel — where the conference was being held — at around 6:40 a.m. by the intersection of West 54th Street and Sixth Avenue.

ABC News obtained this photo of the suspect.

MORE: UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson shot dead in Midtown Manhattan, masked gunman at large

The suspect — who was caught on surveillance cameras before, during and immediately after the shooting — had been lying in wait near the hotel.

After the shooting, he fled on foot into an alley, where a phone believed to be linked to the suspect was later recovered, police sources said.

The suspect then fled on a bike and he was last seen riding into Central Park at 6:48 a.m., police said.

The shooter was caught on surveillance video at 5 a.m. the morning of the shooting outside Frederick Douglass Houses, a public housing project on the Upper West Side, sources told ABC News.

That footage showed the suspect carrying what appeared to be an e-bike battery.

Investigators are gathering evidence as the search for the suspect continues. The FBI — which has the most sophisticated technology for retrieving usable data from cellphones — is assisting with the investigation, the police sources said.

This undated photo provided by UnitedHealth Group shows UnitedHealthcare chief executive officer Brian Thompson.

MORE: Who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson? What we know about the suspect on the run

Police also recovered a water bottle and candy wrapper from the scene of the shooting which they believe are linked to the gunman. Fingerprint and DNA tests on the items are ongoing, law enforcement sources told.

Thompson’s wife, Paulette Thompson, said in a statement that she was “shattered” by the “senseless killing.”

“Brian was an incredibly loving, generous, talented man who truly lived life to the fullest and touched so many lives,” she said. “Most importantly, Brian was an incredibly loving father to our two sons and will be greatly missed.”

Police urge the public to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS with any information.

A reward poster hangs on outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan where Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot, on Dec. 4, 2024, in New York.
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Ronaldo unexpectedly “interacts” with Elon Musk

Ronaldo unexpectedly “interacts” with Elon Musk

Ronaldo unexpectedly “interacts” with Elon Musk

Cristiano Ronaldo is not just a legend on the pitch; he has also demonstrated his massive influence on social media with an unexpected and humorous interaction with Elon Musk. This brief exchange quickly went viral, captivating millions and showcasing the immense appeal of both icons across two vastly different worlds.

Ronaldo’s Spectacular Performance

On November 26, Ronaldo led Al-Nassr to a commanding 3-1 victory over Al Gharafa in the AFC Champions League. The Portuguese superstar delivered a stellar performance, scoring two brilliant goals that secured a crucial win for his team. Following the match, Ronaldo took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his excitement with fans. His post included three celebratory photos and the caption, “Great win tonight!”

Ronaldo có câu trả lời với Elon Musk

This wasn’t just any post-game message—it was a declaration of his continued dominance in football. Fans around the globe celebrated Ronaldo’s consistent ability to shine on the biggest stages, solidifying his place as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history.

Elon Musk Joins the Conversation

In a surprising turn of events, Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and owner of X, responded to Ronaldo’s post within 10 minutes. Known for his sharp wit and influence across industries, Musk kept it short but meaningful with a congratulatory message. This rare interaction drew immediate attention as Musk, despite his massive presence on social media, rarely engages with posts outside the realms of technology and innovation.

Never one to miss an opportunity for humor, Ronaldo responded with a playful jab:
“Glad you still have time to enjoy top-class football,” punctuated with a smiling emoji and a flexed bicep. The exchange delighted millions, blending Ronaldo’s charm with Musk’s unpredictable online persona.

Elon Musk (Full Interview) | Real Time with Bill Maher (HBO) 

Two Giants of Social Media Collide

This lighthearted interaction was not only entertaining but also highlighted the colossal influence both Ronaldo and Musk wield on social media. Elon Musk currently holds the title of most-followed person on X, with an impressive 206 million followers, while Ronaldo stands firmly in third place with 114 million followers, trailing only Barack Obama (131 million).

The viral exchange generated millions of likesshares, and comments, further reinforcing their unmatched popularity. Fans were quick to chime in, celebrating the unique crossover between the world of sports and technology.

Glad your eyes have time for good 'soccer'" - Cristiano Ronaldo responds to  Elon Musk's message under his social media post 

Why Ronaldo and Musk are Icons

Ronaldo represents the pinnacle of athletic excellence, with a career spanning over two decades and a trophy cabinet unmatched in football. His ability to perform at the highest level, even in his late 30s, cements his legacy as a global sports icon. Beyond the pitch, Ronaldo’s personality, work ethic, and connection with fans have made him one of the most marketable athletes in history.

On the other hand, Elon Musk is a visionary leader in technology and business, revolutionizing industries with companies like TeslaSpaceX, and Neuralink. As the owner of X, Musk has reshaped the platform into a hub for diverse conversations. His presence on social media often sparks debates, memes, and discussions that extend far beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors.

The Impact of Social Media Powerhouses

The interaction between Ronaldo and Musk serves as a testament to the transformative power of social media. Platforms like X blur the boundaries between different worlds, allowing leaders from sports, technology, and entertainment to connect and engage directly with audiences. These moments create a unique sense of community, drawing fans closer to their idols and fostering conversations that transcend industries.

The playful “banter” between Ronaldo and Musk is more than just entertainment—it reflects how digital platforms amplify the influence of individuals, shaping how global audiences interact with their heroes.

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Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is the buyer of the Jets

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is the buyer of the Jets

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is the buyer of the Jets

Bezos Sets Eyes on NFL Ownership

Following a failed attempt to acquire the Washington CommandersAmazon founder Jeff Bezos is now emerging as a top candidate to purchase the New York Jets. With an estimated net worth of over $160 billion, Bezos has the financial power to make a splash in the world of NFL ownership.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is the buyer of the Jets

Why the Jets Are a Prime Target

The New York Jets, currently owned by the Johnson family, have faced years of underperformance but remain a valuable franchise in the NFL. Situated in the lucrative New York market, the Jets offer Bezos a unique opportunity to combine his business acumen with one of the league’s most high-profile teams.

The team’s value, estimated at $5.5 billion by Forbes, makes it a prime target for Bezos, whose wealth and influence could help rejuvenate the franchise. Bezos’s ownership could bring modernization, innovation, and significant investment to the team.

A Second Shot at NFL Ownership

Bezos’s interest in owning an NFL team isn’t new. Earlier this year, he expressed strong interest in buying the Washington Commanders but ultimately backed out amid speculation of strained negotiations with the team’s former owner, Dan Snyder. Now, with the Jets potentially up for grabs, Bezos has another shot to join the exclusive club of NFL team owners.

After a Failed Bid for the Commanders, Amazon Founder Jeff Bezos Is a  Strong Favorite to Buy the Jets - The SportsRush 

His possible ownership of the Jets is also seen as a way to leverage his media empire, including Amazon Prime Video’s growing role as a broadcaster of NFL games.

The Future of the Jets Under Bezos

Fans and analysts alike are buzzing about what Bezos could bring to the Jets. From cutting-edge stadium enhancements to expanded global branding, Bezos’s track record suggests a transformative era for the franchise.

The potential purchase could also align with Bezos’s strategic ventures, including technology-driven innovations in sports and entertainment.

Conclusion

While nothing is finalized, Jeff Bezos has positioned himself as the strongest contender to buy the New York Jets. Should he succeed, it would mark a significant moment in NFL history and potentially usher in a new era of success for the JetsBezos’s combination of wealth, vision, and passion for football makes him the ideal candidate to breathe new life into the storied franchise.

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Elon Musk calls LinkedIn users “cringe.” Why?

Elon Musk calls LinkedIn users “cringe.” Why?

Elon Musk calls LinkedIn users “cringe.” Why?

Elon Musk Takes a Jab at LinkedIn

Elon Musk, the outspoken CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, recently took aim at LinkedIn, labeling its users as “cringe-inducing.” His comments came after he reshared a LinkedIn post by Markus Krebber, CEO of German multinational energy company RWE, which discussed a critical issue in Germany’s power supply.

Instead of addressing the alarming content of Krebber’s post, Musk chose to mock the professional networking platform itself, writing on X (formerly Twitter), “I instantly lose respect for anyone who posts on LinkedIn. Cringe can’t be tolerated.”

Elon Musk calls LinkedIn users "cringe." Why?

The Controversial LinkedIn Post

Markus Krebber’s LinkedIn post highlighted a significant challenge in Germany’s energy sector. According to him, on the evening of November 6, electricity prices skyrocketed to over €800 per megawatt-hour—ten times the normal rate—due to power supply limitations. Krebber warned of the urgent need to expand Germany’s “safety capacity” to avoid further crises, emphasizing the necessity of immediate action.

Despite the gravity of Krebber’s message, Musk’s attention was solely on the use of LinkedIn as a medium. His dismissive response not only sparked discussions about his views on professional networking but also drew mixed reactions online.

Elon Musk's X platform goes after LinkedIn 

Musk’s Longstanding Critique of Platforms

This is not the first time Musk has voiced strong opinions about social media platforms. As the head of X and a self-proclaimed advocate for open dialogue, Musk’s criticism of LinkedIn highlights his disdain for traditional corporate networking methods. He has previously encouraged professionals to embrace alternative ways of connecting, favoring a more informal and dynamic approach.

Reactions to Musk’s Comments

Musk’s remarks ignited debates across the internet. Some applauded his blunt critique of LinkedIn’s culture, often criticized for its overly polished and performative content. Others, however, viewed his comments as dismissive of a platform many professionals rely on for networking and career growth.

LinkedIn vs. X: A Growing Divide?

Musk’s criticism could be seen as part of a larger rivalry between X and LinkedIn, both of which cater to different professional audiences. While LinkedIn focuses on traditional career-building, Musk’s vision for X includes becoming a multipurpose platform, potentially encroaching on LinkedIn’s territory.

Elon Musk muốn tích hợp công cụ tìm việc trên X để cạnh tranh với LinkedIn

Conclusion

Elon Musk’s recent jab at LinkedIn underscores his unconventional take on professional networking and communication. Whether his criticism was meant to highlight LinkedIn’s flaws or simply provoke discussion, it has once again placed Musk at the center of public debate, reinforcing his reputation as a disruptor across industries and platforms.

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Elon Musk – The Great ‘Liar’: Calling for Earth protection causes pollution 112 times more

Elon Musk – The Great ‘Liar’: Calling for Earth protection causes pollution 112 times more

Elon Musk – The Great ‘Liar’: Calling for Earth protection causes pollution 112 times more

Elon Musk, celebrated for his sustainability vision, faces scrutiny over repeated environmental violations by Tesla and SpaceX. While Musk promotes climate action, his companies’ operations reveal a troubling gap between words and actions.

Tesla’s Environmental Hazards

At Tesla’s Austin factory, the Model Y production process releases toxic emissions and discharges untreated wastewater containing paint, oil, and chemicals into the city’s sewage system, violating safety standards. The factory floor often reaches 100°C due to massive metal-melting processes.

A Wall Street Journal investigation found that Tesla management often ignored environmental concerns to prioritize production. Employees feared retaliation for speaking up, with some claiming they were pressured to deceive regulators to avoid costly upgrades.

Tesla - Nhà sản xuất xe điện "giúp bảo vệ môi trường" lại bị phạt vì... gây  ô nhiễm môi trường | Viết bởi _vphlinh_

SpaceX and Ecological Disruptions

SpaceX has also drawn criticism for its Starship launches, which reportedly threaten coastal wildlife, including birds and sea turtles, while contributing significant carbon emissions. The force of a single launch rivals 160 Boeing 787 planes taking off simultaneously, raising concerns from environmentalists and airlines about airspace disruptions and fuel consumption.

Lawsuits have been filed against the FAA for underestimating the ecological damage caused by SpaceX operations, particularly in Texas, where the company plans to increase its launch frequency.

Musk's SpaceX launches historic Polaris Dawn for first commercial space  walk - MarketWatch 

Regulatory Oversight and Corporate Priorities

Tesla relocated its headquarters from California to Texas in 2021, benefiting from lenient regulations. Yet violations persisted, with Tesla illegally discharging chemical-laden runoff into the Colorado River during heavy rains. The Fremont facility in California previously recorded 112 air pollution violations in five years.

Musk’s Sustainability Paradox

Despite branding himself as a climate champion, Musk’s companies exhibit a pattern of environmental negligence. Critics argue his green image masks the ecological harm caused by Tesla’s rapid expansion and SpaceX’s ambitious launches.

As Tesla aims to sell 20 million vehicles annually by 2030, the environmental costs of Musk’s empire continue to raise questions about whether profit outweighs sustainability in his agenda.

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Elon Musk’s record-breaking $56,000,000,000 Tesla payout denied causing shares to fall

Elon Musk’s record-breaking $56,000,000,000 Tesla payout denied causing shares to fall

Elon Musk’s record-breaking $56,000,000,000 Tesla payout denied causing shares to fall

Elon Musk has hit out at the decision on Twitter

Elon Musk and Tesla have lost a legal battle after a judge ruled against the richest man in the world being given a massive $56 billion pay deal.

Delaware judge Kathleen McCormick shot down the historic reward for Musk, marking the second time the payout has been rejected by the courts.

Musk was set to receive the $56bn in pay from Tesla under a historic compensation package struck in 2018. It was described in court documents as the largest ever seen in public markets.

Tesla moved to ratify the agreement via a shareholder vote, then asked the court to approve it afterwards.

Elon Musk was denied his hefty Tesla payout (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Elon Musk was denied his hefty Tesla payout (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Judge McCormick called Tesla’s legal argument ‘fatally flawed’ and at times ‘indefensible’ as she denied the motion in a 101-page opinion.

The judge wrote: “The large and talented group of defense firms got creative … but their unprecedented theories go against multiple strains of settled law.

“Novelty is not necessarily damning, but defendants’ novel request flies in the face of the policy bases for all relevant rules of procedure.

“Were the court to condone the practice of allowing defeated parties to create new facts for the purpose of revising judgments, lawsuits would become interminable.”

As a result of the decision, Tesla shares fell by as much as 1.4 percent in after-hours trading.

The judge also shot down a ‘bold ask’ from the plaintiff’s lawyer who asked to receive their legal fees in the form of $5.6bn in Tesla stock.

On December 2, Tesla released a statement vowing to appeal the verdict to a higher court, saying it was only intending to pay Musk ‘what he is worth’.

Musk took his complaints to Twitter after the move by the judge (Nora Tam/South China Morning Post via Getty Images)

Musk took his complaints to Twitter after the move by the judge (Nora Tam/South China Morning Post via Getty Images)

The statement read: “A Delaware judge just overruled a supermajority of shareholders who own Tesla and who voted twice to pay Elon Musk what he’s worth.

“The court’s decision is wrong, and we’re going to appeal.

“This ruling, if not overturned, means that judges and plaintiffs’ lawyers run Delaware companies rather than their rightful owners – the shareholders.”

Musk agreed and shared the company’s statement on Twitter.

He also declared that ‘shareholders should control company votes, not judges’ while sharing a social media post by investor Cathie Wood, the CEO of Ark Invest, who took issue with McCormick’s decision.

In a tweet she commented: “Based on her @TSLA ruling, DE Judge McCormick is an activist judge at its worst. No judge has the right to determine CEO compensation.

“Shareholders voted twice, overwhelmingly each time, to ratify @elonmusk’s 2018 performance-based pay package. She will lose this fight in Supreme Court. I stand by my original response supporting #Tesla and Elon.”

Musk also retweeted the post by Wood.

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How Bill Gates has spent his $153,000,000,000 fortune and what he plans to do with it when he's gone

How Bill Gates has spent his $153,000,000,000 fortune and what he plans to do with it when he’s gone

How Bill Gates has spent his $153,000,000,000 fortune and what he plans to do with it when he’s gone

His three children are only getting a small portion of his net worth.

Bill Gates may be one of the richest people on the planet but he doesn’t plan on staying that wealthy forever.

The Microsoft co-founder has an estimated net worth of $153 billion (about £120 billion), which makes him the fifth-richest individual in the world.

In 2022, Bill Gates made a surprising statement when he explained he’d like to donate a large portion of his wealth to his philanthropic organisation, meaning his children would only inherit a small amount of his wealth and that he would move down and ‘eventually off’ the list of the most loaded people on the planet.

This is not to say that Gates hasn’t indulged in some lavish expense throughout the years. The centibillionaire purchased several dreamy properties around the US as well as sports cars, of which he’s an avid collector.

Bill Gates is among the disgustingly rich few with a net worth of more than $100 billion. (Sean Gallup/Getty Images)
Bill Gates is among the disgustingly rich few with a net worth of more than $100 billion. (Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

With a fraction of his fortune, the businessman bought an estate on a 12-parcel land worth $183.5 million. His estate, named Xanadu 2.0, is located in Medina, Washington, and reportedly took Gates seven years and $63 million to build.

Xanadu 2.0 consists of six kitchens, 24 bathrooms, and a home theatre for 20 guests, as well as a library and various garages that can house up to 23 cars (but more on automobiles later).

A 60-foot pool is housed in its own separate building and boasts an underwater sound system, while Gates is said to have imported sand straight from St Lucia in the Caribbean to populate the shore surrounding the house.

Unsurprisingly, the mansion of the tech billionaire includes some display screens on the walls that can show different paintings or photographs, but Xanadu 2.0 also features real artworks, like a $36 million Winslow Homer painting, and precious collectibles, namely a 16th-century Leonardo da Vinci manuscript that Gates secured at a 1994 auction for the eye-watering price of $30 million.

Alongside Xanadu 2.0, Gates also owns several other properties, being one of the largest private landowners in the country. Gates’ portfolio includes a $35 million 20-acre estate in Wellington, Florida, an $18 million 228-acre Rancho Paseana in California, a $43 million oceanfront home in Del Mar, California, and a 6-bedroom home built on the grounds of Indian Wells’ Vintage Club, to name a few.

The Microsoft co-founder bought a Porsche 911 when he first started making money in 1979. (Doug Wilson/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images)

The Microsoft co-founder bought a Porsche 911 when he first started making money in 1979. (Doug Wilson/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images)

He also owns the 71.25 percent of the Four Seasons hotel chain, as well as having invested in the Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco with some unnamed buyers for the sum of $161 million and in Bud Light’s parent company for $95 million.

However, Gates didn’t just splurge on personal luxuries, including holidays, several Porsches and a private Bombardier BD-700 Global Express. The entrepreneur has invested in several philanthropic endeavours and healthcare with his ex-wife Melinda, with the couple donating $5 million to Alzheimer’s research, $2 billion to defeat malaria, and $50 million to fight Ebola, amongst other causes.

As for what will happen to his fortune in the future, Gates stated that he would leave his three children ‘just’ $10 million each, but ‘virtually’ all of his money would go to the philanthropic organisation he shares with his ex-wife, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

How Bill Gates has spent his $153,000,000,000 fortune and what he plans to do with it when he’s gone Read More
Mark Zuckerberg secretly ran a “shadow community” on Facebook

Mark Zuckerberg secretly ran a “shadow community” on Facebook

Mark Zuckerberg secretly ran a “shadow community” on Facebook

Mark Zuckerberg, once an ambitious Harvard student, transformed Facebook into one of the most powerful social media platforms in the world. However, few are aware that beneath this success lies a major secret: Zuckerberg may be secretly running an underground community with the goal of controlling global information and events through the Facebook platform.

The Hidden Underground Community Controlling Facebook

According to various rumors, while billions of people use Facebook daily, a small group of influential and powerful individuals is quietly controlling conversations, events, and crucial societal decisions through the platform. This group is said to have access to Facebook’s algorithms, allowing them to manipulate informationshape public opinion, and create trends or global events, such as elections or media crises. The members of this community are allegedly anonymous and never appear in public.

Mark Zuckerberg secretly ran a "shadow community" on Facebook

The Purpose of the Underground Community: Information Control

One of the main reasons behind the existence of this underground community is to control information and steer global conversations. The group is believed to use Facebook’s algorithms to decide which messages appear on users’ feeds, influencing public opinion and creating trending topics with massive reach. This could lead to media events or political responses being manipulated without anyone realizing the hidden influence.

Power and Control: The Ultimate Goal

According to conspiracy theories, Zuckerberg and this underground network may be creating a “virtual world” where they control everything from user behavior to major political, economic, and social decisions. The goal is to establish a world of completely controlled information, where every event and piece of information is pre-planned to serve the interests of a small elite group.

Mark Zuckerberg secretly ran a "shadow community" on Facebook 

Public Reaction and the Truth Behind the Theory

While these claims remain unverified and Facebook consistently denies any involvement in covert activities, scandals like Cambridge Analytica and allegations of election manipulation have fueled skepticism about the platform’s role in controlling global information. These controversies continue to raise concerns about Zuckerberg’s ability to shape public discourse and influence global events.

Whether the underground community truly exists or not, one thing is clear: Facebook continues to wield significant influence in shaping information and global events. The public will likely continue to question the power and responsibility that social media giants like Zuckerberg’s Facebook hold over global information control.

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Netflix quietly adds one of the best movies of the last decade with near perfect Rotten Tomatoes rating

Netflix quietly adds one of the best movies of the last decade with near perfect Rotten Tomatoes rating

Netflix quietly adds one of the best movies of the last decade with near perfect Rotten Tomatoes rating

It’s been compared to Trainspotting and Eminem’s 8 Mile biopic

Netflix fans have been taken aback after one of the highest-rated movies of the last decade was quietly added to the platform this week.

Winter is a hectic time of year for all of us, including Netflix, whose recent additions include its annual Lindsay Lohan-led Christmas rom-com and a new conspiracy thriller fans can’t get enough of.

With so much new content to binge, subscribers might have missed out on this ‘real gem’ based on a true story.

The movie, released back in January, has gone on to earn critical acclaim – particularly from Rotten Tomatoes critics, who scored it an almost-perfect 96 percent.

One reviewer likened it to Eminem’s 8 Mile and Danny Boyle’s Trainspotting – so if either of those are your vibe, you’re bound to love this one.

Fans have hailed the movie a 'hidden gem' (Curzon Film)

Fans have hailed the movie a ‘hidden gem’ (Curzon Film)

The music biopic centers on a controversial Northern Irish hip-hop trio who become the unlikely figureheads of a Civil Rights movement as they desperately attempt to save their native language.

The movie is named after – and stars – the real-life trio Kneecap.

Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh, Naoise Ó Caireallain and J.J. Ó Dochartaigh – perhaps better known by their stage names Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí – formed Kneecap in 2017.

The trio openly court controversy with their provocative lyrics and merchandise.

The movie chronicles their rise to fame and the chaos that followed, as the film’s synopsis explains: “When fate brings Belfast schoolteacher JJ into the orbit of self-confessed ‘low life scum’ Naoise and Liam Og, the needle drops on a hip hop act like no other.

“But the trio must first overcome police, paramilitaries and politicians trying to silence their defiant sound – whilst their anarchic approach to life often makes them their own worst enemies.”

Directed by Rich Peppiatt, Kneecap earned multiple award nominations and joined Netflix on December 2.

 Mo Chara (left) and Móglaí Bap (right) of Kneecap (Luke Brennan/Getty Images)

Mo Chara (left) and Móglaí Bap (right) of Kneecap (Luke Brennan/Getty Images)

Over on Rotten Tomatoes, Filipe Freitas from Always Good Movies described the film’s ‘sensationalist execution’ as ‘a pastiche of Trainspotting (1996) and 8 Mile (2002), with a dash of Guy Ritchie’s gangster flair.’

The Times’ Kevin Maher agreed, writing: “The mood and tone are hugely indebted to Trainspotting. The director Rich Peppiatt matches Danny Boyle’s busy structural template as our apprentice rappers become accidental outlaws…”

Wenlei Ma of The Nightly said Kneecap ‘crackles with energy, attitude and youth, and takes you along for a riotous and persuasive ride.’

Meanwhile Mark Kermode of Kermode and Mayo’s Take reckoned: “In the great pantheon of pop biopics, I think this is one of the most distinctive offerings.”

And the movie’s audience agreed, almost matching the critics’ score with 95 percent.

One fan said the movie was a ‘hidden gem,’ describing it as ‘a wild ride the whole way through.’

“I think despite being profane and raunchy, where this movie snuck up on me, is that it really has a lot to say about a variety of social topics and creative expression,” they added.

Another summed it up quite simply: “Rebellious meets funny with great music.”

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Once enthusiastic, now embarrassed, Tesla owners are settling scores with Elon Musk!

Once enthusiastic, now embarrassed, Tesla owners are settling scores with Elon Musk!

Once enthusiastic, now embarrassed, Tesla owners are settling scores with Elon Musk!

In the early days of Tesla’s rise to prominenceElon Musk was hailed as a visionary, and Tesla owners were among the most fervent advocates of electric vehicles (EVs). With the promise of cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and a sleek, futuristic design, owning a Tesla was seen as a symbol of innovation and status. Fast forward to today, and it seems that some of these once-loyal customers are feeling more than just disillusioned—they’re downright embarrassed. From product issues to Musk’s erratic public persona, it appears the love affair between Tesla owners and Elon Musk is facing a serious rupture. So, what’s going on? Are we witnessing the unraveling of the Tesla dream, and is Musk to blame for turning these once-enthusiastic customers into vocal critics?

Once enthusiastic, now embarrassed, Tesla owners are settling scores with Elon Musk!

The Honeymoon Phase: When Tesla Was the Future

For many early adopters, buying a Tesla wasn’t just about purchasing a car—it was about being part of a revolution. Tesla owners were not only driving sleek, electric cars; they were making a statement. They were paving the way for the future of sustainable transportation. The Model SModel 3, and later the Model X, became synonymous with progress, while Musk was seen as the ultimate genius who would change the world. Early Teslas had impressive performance, unique features like autopilot, and a forward-thinking approach to tech, making them the envy of the auto industry.

However, as the company grew and the demands of mass production increased, so did the challenges.

Quality Control and Product Issues: The Cracks Begin to Show

The first cracks in the Tesla’s shiny exterior started to appear with complaints from owners about product quality. The excitement around the brand began to fade as reports of vehicle defects, software glitches, and inconsistent build quality started making headlines. Tesla owners who had once proudly touted their cars’ performance, were now finding themselves dealing with issues like faulty door handles, defective paint jobs, and software bugs that affected the driving experience.

Tesla’s autopilot, once seen as a groundbreaking innovation, also became a point of contention. Although touted as the future of autonomous driving, the system’s limitations and frequent need for human intervention started to cause frustration. Several accidents tied to the autopilot function raised serious questions about the technology’s safety, further tarnishing the brand’s image.

Elon Musk’s Public Persona: A Major Turnoff for Many

While product quality issues are a significant factor, perhaps the biggest turning point for many Tesla owners is Elon Musk himself. The same figure who was once admired for his vision, ambition, and willingness to challenge the status quo has increasingly become a source of embarrassment. Musk’s frequent social media outbursts, controversial statements, and erratic behavior have left many questioning whether he’s still the genius who built Tesla or simply a billionaire with too much influence and too little self-control.

Once enthusiastic, now embarrassed, Tesla owners are settling scores with Elon Musk! 

Musk’s unpredictable Twitter rants, political statements, and dismissive attitude toward critics have alienated large segments of Tesla’s customer base. What was once seen as a fearless leader taking on the establishment is now being perceived by some as an arrogant, reckless figure who cares more about his own ego than the people who helped him get to where he is. His open embrace of controversial figures, his stance on various social issues, and his disregard for concerns about his companies have left many Tesla owners uncomfortable.

The Impact on Tesla OwnersSettling Scores with Musk

As the cracks in Tesla’s quality control and Musk’s public image continue to widen, many owners who once saw themselves as part of the Tesla “family” are now speaking out. From forums to social media, former Tesla enthusiasts are airing their grievances, sharing stories of their once-positive experiences turning sour. Complaints about poor customer service, long delays in repairs, and the overall treatment of Tesla owners are growing louder. What was once an enthusiastic community is now turning into a battleground where disgruntled owners are calling out both the brand and Musk himself.

For many, the breaking point came when Musk’s antics on Twitter and his growing disregard for the concerns of Tesla owners became too much to ignore. Some owners have even gone as far as selling their Teslas, citing not just the quality issues but the embarrassment of being associated with a brand that was once considered a beacon of innovation but is now linked with controversy.

The Future of Tesla: Can Musk Turn It Around?

So, what’s next for Tesla? While the company continues to grow, expand, and innovate with new models like the Cybertruck and the semi-truck, the question remains whether it can maintain its reputation and keep its base of loyal customers. Can Tesla continue to push the boundaries of innovation, or are the quality control issues, combined with Musk’s controversial behavior, setting the stage for a decline?

The answers aren’t clear. Musk’s dominance in the company and his behavior seem intertwined with Tesla’s public image. If he doesn’t find a way to balance his larger-than-life persona with the expectations of his customers, it’s possible that the Tesla revolution could start to lose its shine. The idea of owning a Tesla as a status symbol may continue to hold weight for some, but for others, it could soon become a symbol of embarrassment.

Is the magic gone?

Once enthusiastic, now embarrassedTesla owners are increasingly speaking out against a brand that was once the future of transportation. As quality control issues persist and Elon Musk’s public persona continues to alienate many, the golden age of Tesla ownership seems to be in decline. Whether this is a passing phase or the beginning of a larger shift remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Tesla’s once-loyal fan base is no longer uniformly loyal, and it’s a reality that Musk and the company must confront if they hope to retain their place in the electric vehicle market.

Once enthusiastic, now embarrassed, Tesla owners are settling scores with Elon Musk! 

The question is no longer whether Tesla will lead the way in electric vehicles, but whether it can recover from the growing disillusionment of its customers—especially when many of them are settling scores with the very figure they once admired.

Once enthusiastic, now embarrassed, Tesla owners are settling scores with Elon Musk! Read More