Freddie Mercury, born Farrokh Bulsara, has left an indelible mark on the music world, despite passing away over 30 years ago. His extraordinary voice continues to resonate, reminding us of the brilliance of his life, which he lived to the fullest despite facing significant challenges.
As he lay dying in his cherished home, his thoughts were focused on one person: Mary Austin. She was not only the love of his life but also the only person who knew where his ashes were to be scattered after his death.
Many artists have briefly captured the spotlight, but few reach the iconic status of Mercury, whose influence endures. Alongside the band Queen, he created timeless hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Are the Champions”. To this day, Queen’s “Greatest Hits” remains the best-selling album in the UK.
Freddie’s journey to stardom was fraught with hardships. Born on September 5, 1946, in Zanzibar, his family fled to England when he was young, seeking a better life. It was here that he adopted the name Freddie, and his passion for music began to flourish, despite his parents’ initial disapproval.
Freddie’s talent shone brightly, particularly as he collaborated with future bandmates, ultimately establishing Queen. Their success was meteoric, with Mercury’s voice only becoming stronger over time. Hits like “We Will Rock You” and “Don’t Stop Me Now” showcased his extraordinary talent.
In his personal life, Mercury’s bond with Mary Austin was profound. Though they were engaged and later separated, their friendship endured, and she remained by his side through his struggles with AIDS, which he was diagnosed with in 1987. As he bravely fought the disease, Mercury chose to reveal his illness to the world shortly before his death in 1991, expressing the desire to do so on his own terms.
In his final days, Mercury entrusted Austin with the knowledge of where his ashes would be scattered, as he sought privacy in death. He left behind a significant portion of his estate to her, highlighting their enduring connection. After his passing, it was confirmed that Mary carried out his wishes, scattering his ashes in a secret location, as he had requested.
Freddie Mercury’s legacy continues to shine brightly, and his wish for eternal rest in solitude has been honored by the one person who knew him best. We remember him fondly, knowing that his spirit lives on in the music that inspires generations.
18 Child Actors Who Are All Grown Up Now, and We Didn’t Even Notice It (New Pics)
It seems that some of the films and TV series we loved as children are now decades old. Think of The NeverEnding Story, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, or even Baywatch. And of course, the young actors that played child roles in these have grown up significantly. For example, Jonathan Lipnicki, the child star of Jerry Maguire, is already 30 years old, and Noah Hathaway, who is remembered for his performance as Atreyu in The NeverEnding Story, will turn 50 in November 2021. Even Georgie Henley, aka Lucy in The Chronicles of Narnia is now 25!
Bright Side did some research to find out what 18 child actors from the ’90s and the beginning of the ’00s look like today, and here’s what we found.
1. Jeremy Dunn Jackson (Hobie Buchannon), Baywatch (1991-1999)
2. Jonathan Lipnicki (Ray Boyd), Jerry Maguire (1996)
3. Daryl Sabara (Juni Cortez), Spy Kids (2001)
4. Taylor Lautner (Sharkboy), The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl 3-D (2005)
5. Georgie Henley (Lucy Pevensie), The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
6. Matthew Lawrence (Chris Hillard), Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
7. Lisa Jakub (Lydia Hillard), Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
8. Noah Hathaway (Atreyu), The NeverEnding Story (1984)
9. Nicholle Tom (Ryce), Beethoven (1992)
10. Giorgio Cantarini (Giosué), Life Is Beautiful (1997)
11. Anna Chlumsky (Vada Sultenfuss), My Girl (1991)
12. Patrick Renna (Hamilton “Ham” Porter), The Sandlot (1993)
13. Ivyann Schwan (Trixie Young), Problem Child 2 (1991)
14. Madison Lintz (Sophia Peletier), The Walking Dead (2010-2012)
15. Mackenzie Foy (Renesmee), The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 1 and Part 2 (2011-2012)
16. Alexa PenaVega (Carmen Cortez), Spy Kids (2001)
17. Edward Furlong (John Connor), Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991)
18. Raven-Symoné (Olivia Kendall), The Cosby Show (1989-1992)
Which of the series or movies listed above is your favorite? Which of the actors do you think has changed the most? Is there anybody else you think we should add to this list?
Preview photo credit The NeverEnding Story / Warner Bros. and co-producers, noahhathaway*** / Instagram
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