HOLLYWOOD—Hope everyone is enjoying the New Year so far. Spending time with family and friends is priceless. Whether you go to the Rainforest Cafe or stay at home. It’s always fun. The phrase “family is everything” often reflects a cultural or society belief that emphasizes the importance of family bonds, support, and connection. In so many cultures, family is seen as a primary source of support, love and identity. These values are often reinforced through traditions, and family stories.

Family can provide emotional stability and a sense of belonging. For so many people, family members are the first people they turn to in times of crisis. Families share a unique history, traditions and experiences that can strengthen bonds and create a sense of unity. While there can be societal pressure to conform to the idea of a close-knit family, leading people to express the sentiment even if their personal experiences differ.

While others experience estrangement, conflict, or loss, making the phrase feel alien or untrue. Many people find support and love in friendships or communities outside of their biological families. These “chosen families” can be just as important, if not more so, than traditional family ties. Everyone’s journey is unique, and support can come from various sources beyond traditional family structures.

In a rare family photo, for the first time in years, Jack Nicholson was seen as he joined his family for the holidays. “The Shining” actor, 87, was with his family as one of his children Lorraine, posted on Instagram celebrating the holidays alongside her family members. The “giving season” she captioned the post. In the photo, the pair were seen wrapping their arms around each other as they posed and smiled for the camera. Lorraine also shared a photo with her younger brother, Raymond Nicholson, whom Nicholson shares with his ex-girlfriend Rebecca Broussard.

In another photo, it showed Lorraine alongside Raymond and Duke Nicholson, who is the actor’s grandson. Duke’s girlfriend, influencer Devon Lee Carlson, was also in the photo. His impressive fortune is estimated to be around $400 million or more. It is because of his long and impressive successful career in Hollywood, spanning over six decades. Nicholson is known for iconic roles in films like “The Shining,” “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” and “Batman.” The Oscar-winning actor was born in Neptune City, New Jersey, yet we never crossed paths since I was also born in New Jersey. Jack has six children with five different women. Jennifer Nicholson, born in 1963; Caleb Goddard, born in 1970; Honey Hollman, born in 1982; Lorraine Nicholson, born in 1990; Ray Nicholson, born in 1992; and Tessa Gourin, born in 1994.

We all remember Jack, as the actor who was everywhere. Spotted in nightclubs, basketball games, at movie premieres, the French Riviera. He is considered one of the greatest actors of all time, the King.

Speaking of the King, we have the King of Rock and Roll whose birthday is on January 8. Elvis was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, in a two-room house, yet died at Graceland in a mansion. He was family-oriented as well. His death was a heart attack at his home at the age of 42. Each year, fans gather at Graceland to celebrate Elvis’ birthday with events, concerts, and panels. In 2025, Graceland will host a series of events from January 8-11, including the Elvis Birthday Proclamation Ceremony, a Memphis Symphony Orchestra concert, and a panel discussion. Graceland will also open a yearlong exhibit called “90 for 90” that features 90 items from Elvis life and career. Last year, Memphis and Shelby County issued a joint proclamation to recognize Elvis contributions to music and the world.

Performers and special guests include Richard Sterban of the Oak Ridge Boys, who sang backup for Elvis as part of the JD Sumner and the Stamps Quartet; Terry Blackwood, who sang backup for Elvis as part of the Imperials; Sweet Inspiration Estelle Brown; Bill “Superfoot” Wallace; Terry Mike Jeffrey; Dean Z; Pat Dunn; Argo; Tom Brown; and more.

Rose’s Scoop: Elvis in January- it was often a “going-back-to-work” month for him following spending the holidays s at home in Memphis with family and friends. Elvis recorded some of his biggest hits during January. It was a month for his live TV performances in 1956, 1957, and 1973. Happy New Year everyone!