Today : Jan 07, 2025
Arts & Culture
05 January 2025

Engagements, Empowerment, And Performance: Michelle Stories Shine

From Steve Burton's new engagement to Michelle Buteau's self-love, notable women named Michelle are making headlines.

Steve Burton, famous for his role on "General Hospital," recently announced his engagement to Michelle Lundstrom, just over a year after finalizing his divorce from Sheree Gustin. The couple shared the news on social media, capturing the heartfelt moment when Burton popped the question. Reflecting on the scripture, Burton wrote, "Jeremiah 29:11: ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” This emotional insight, coupled with the couple's adorable engagement announcement, marks a new chapter for Burton, who publicly confirmed his split from Gustin nearly three years ago when he revealed she was pregnant with another man's child.

Gustin and Burton, who were married for over two decades, share three children: Mackena, 21, Jack, 18, and Brooklyn, 10. Despite the challenges, Burton stated they would co-parent amicably. Following their divorce finalized in December 2023, Gustin welcomed her fifth child but has yet to disclose the father's identity. Burton and Lundstrom made their public debut as a couple last June when they attended the Daytime Emmy Awards, sharing joyous moments on Instagram where Lundstrom remarked about their night, saying, "Our first red carpet together. It was a dream from beginning to end."

Another notable Michelle, comedian Michelle Buteau, recently spoke candidly about the advice she chose to ignore, particularly directives about weight loss. During her interview with NPR's Rachel Martin, she emphasized the importance of self-acceptance, stating, "Oh my god, 'Lose weight.' Shut up. People who tell you to lose weight are never a doctor. They never look happy…I'm just gonna show you what it looks like to love my body." Buteau, who has become quite successful, balancing comedy and motherhood with her five-year-old twins, asserted her decision to embrace her body, recalling how societal pressures around her wedding led to her realizing she wanted to love herself unconditionally.

Buteau’s upcoming Netflix comedy special, titled "Michelle Buteau: A Buteau-ful Mind," highlights her charming and relatable storytelling. She became famous for the interactions her family has at home, where mealtimes often bring joyful gatherings, filled with love and laughter. "We make it a point to have people over once a month… it's just like, 'Can you just eat your broccoli and tell me what happened at the playground?'"

Meanwhile, Michelle Terry, the Olivier Award-winning actor, is captivating audiences as she stars in Chekhov’s "Three Sisters" at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse in London. Terry, who trained at RADA, has made significant contributions to the theatrical world through her roles at Shakespeare’s Globe. Some of her notable performances include major works like "A Midsummer Night's Dream," "Richard III," and many others. With each role, she brings depth and expertise, affirming her status as one of the best actors of her generation.

Lastly, Judith Boivin, now 80, who lost nearly $600,000 to scammers posing as FBI agents, is set to engage with the public on her experience. On January 6, Boivin will host a virtual panel discussion with experts, sharing insights not only on her personal story but also discussing preventative measures against scams. Her initiative serves as both a therapeutic process for herself and hope for others who find themselves victims of such fraudulent schemes.

These stories reflect the tenacity and resilience of these women named Michelle, from romance and personal acceptance to the performing arts and overcoming adversity, showcasing varied journeys yet interconnected by strength and growth.