Arts & Entertainment
Olivia Newton-John reveals she is battling breast cancer again
the star had been in remission since 1992
Olivia Newton-John has announced she is battling breast cancer for the second time and will be postponing her June tour dates in the U.S. and Canada.
Newton-John, 68, had canceled show dates two weeks ago for back pain but learned it was the disease that “had metastasized to the sacrum.” The “Grease” star plans to undergo natural therapies and “a short course of photon radiation therapy.” She hopes to return touring by August.
“I decided on my direction of therapies after consultation with my doctors and natural therapists and the medical team at my Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre in Melbourne, Australia,” Newton-John said in a statement.
Chloe Lattanzi, Newton-John’s daughter, posted on Instagram on May 17 offering encouraging words.
“I love u mama … Will all of u send healing prayers for my mamas back please,” Lattanzi writes. “I believe in the power of positive thinking and energy. Love u all.”
The performer had been in remission since 1992.
Newton-John was on tour to promote “Liv On,” her album about coping with tragedy and loss including her stint with breast cancer in 1992 and the death of her sister Rona from brain cancer. A known advocate for breast cancer research, Newton-John helped to fund the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre in Australia.
Out & About
Blade Summer Kickoff Party returns to Rehoboth
Politicians slated to speak at annual Blue Moon party
The Washington Blade’s 17th annual Summer Kickoff Party returns Friday, May 17, 5-7 p.m. at the Blue Moon (35 Baltimore Ave.) in Rehoboth Beach, Del.
It’s an exciting election year in Delaware, which is poised to elect its first Black woman senator (Lisa Blunt Rochester) and the nation’s first transgender member of Congress (Sarah McBride).
McBride is scheduled to speak at the party along with several politicos from the area. With the retirement of longtime state Rep. Peter C. Schwartzkopf, a staunch LGBTQ ally, three strong contenders are running to replace him. All three — Marty Rendon, Kathy McGuiness, and Claire Snyder-Hall — are slated to speak at the party. A representative from Blunt Rochester’s campaign is scheduled to speak, along with Kim Leisey, the new executive director of CAMP Rehoboth.
Tax-deductible tickets are $20 and available on Eventbrite or via the Blade’s Facebook page. The party is sponsored by Justin Noble of Sotheby’s, The Avenue Inn & Spa, and Blue Moon.
Andy Cohen, executive producer of “The Real Housewives” franchise and host of “Watch What Happens Live,” will return to Sixth & I on Wednesday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.
This event will be his fifth appearance at the venue to celebrate the paperback release of his New York Times bestselling memoir, “The Daddy Diaries,” talk about the latest Housewives happenings, and answer audience questions about everyone’s favorite Bravolebrities.
Cohen will be in conversation with Rep. Robert Garcia, who represents California and is the first LGBTQ immigrant to win a congressional seat. Rep. Garcia has also been known to quote from “The Real Housewives” in congressional hearings.
Tickets start at $12 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.
“Herses- Purse Frist Extravaganza” will be on Friday, May 3 at 9 p.m. at 1835 14th St. N.W. This will be an evening of dancing and performances, hosted by HAUS of Bambi Award-winning Performance Artist, BUMPER. Refreshments are also available for purchase.
Tickets are $10 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.