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In November, seemingly overnight, Hannah Kobayashi’s story shocked the world and sparked major controversy. The native Hawaiian woman was reported missing at the time. While she’s since returned safe and sound after being found in Mexico, life will surely never be the same. After months of silence, Kobayashi recently spoke out about her feelings and healing process, reflecting on “loss” in light of her father’s passing, among other things.

As E! News notes, Kobayashi has since deleted her emotional Instagram post. Still, that doesn’t mean those who tuned in before it disappeared aren’t left with more questions than answers. Among the conspiracy theories surrounding the 31-year-old’s disappearance are rumors about a green card application, which has only added fuel to the fire. While the world waits for details on this voluntary missing persons case, there is a lot of speculation going on. Here’s what we know about the Hannah Kobayashi story so far. 

Who is Hannah Kobayashi?

Hannah Kobayashi is a photographer living in Hawaii who made headlines for her disappearance in November 2024. According to People, after leaving Maui, on Nov. 8, 2024, the islander was expected to make it to her connecting flight from Los Angeles to New York City. Unfortunately, Kobayashi did not make it on the plane, resulting in concern amongst her loved ones. Another concerning factor that contributed to their panic was the fact that her phone had been left behind at the Los Angeles International Airport.

On Nov. 11, the Kobayashi family reported Hannah as missing. Afterward, they sparked a nationwide spotlight on her case, fearing she had fallen victim to dangerous circumstances. She became the focus of an intense month-long search, but no one could have guessed what would happen next. As it turns out, Kobayashi was alive and well; she had just been seemingly off the radar purposely.

On Dec. 11, she was found unharmed and alone in Mexico, per People. This discovery marked the beginning of the controversy surrounding her disappearance. Although the Kobayashi family released a statement via an attorney expressing, “We are incredibly relieved and grateul that Hannah has been found safe”, there still were many questions left unanswered. Days after the ambiguous news of her discovery had been released, she reportedly returned to the United States.

What happened to her dad, Ryan Kobayashi?

One of the most heartbreaking occurrences surrounding Hannah’s missing person’s case is the loss of her father. Ryan Kobayashi. He was 58 years old and leading the charge on the front lines, searching for his daughter, even traveling to Los Angeles to look for her himself. Tragically, at the height of the investigation, Ryan died. According to E! News, he was found deceased in an LAX parking lot.

After the medical examiner investigated, it was reported that the Kobayashi patriarch had jumped off a parking structure and committed suicide. He was discoverd on Nov. 24, just a short while after his daughter was reported missing. At the time of Ryan’s passing, Hannah had not been found, leaving her family to deal with even more grief.

Per E! News, they released a public statement, sharing that, “After tirelessly searching throughout Los Angeles for 13 days, Hannah’s father, Ryan Kobayashi, tragically took his own life. This loss has compounded the family’s suffering immeasurably.” This devastating news, along with Hannah’s life seemingly hanging in the balance, was an overwhelming circumstance, to say the least.  

A recent video from Hannah reflects on her initial disappearance 

After being discovered in Mexico and learning of her father’s death, Hannah Kobayashi remained relatively quiet about the whole ordeal until this week. In a since-deleted video on Instagram, the photographer shared a message for both her supporters and critics. “I just want to say how grateful I am for everyone, every single person who dedicated time and energy into looking for me,” she said in the brief clip.

More recently Kobayashi has posted a rather ambiguous Instagram post which makes reference to her past. On May 3, she shared a black and white photo of trees with the caption, “For all that I have yet to say, the love in my heart remains the same, for every being that exists and those to come.” She continued, “To go deep within and bear witness to your unwaivering resilience is a true remembrance. More powerful than you could ever imagine. Rise up against tyranny, rise up against hate, overcome fear and nothing will ever stop you from becoming that in which you are destined.”

While this vague and whimsical post may have some followers questioning Hannah’s state of mind, there is more. In the comments of her social media pages, followers are asking Kobayashi questions about missing her father’s funeral. She has yet to unveil the details of her relationship with Ryan, but continues to make references to her healing and casting away hate while gradually opening up.

Addressing rumors of a green card scam

According to NBC News, there’s been speculation regarding whether Hannah Kobayashi could have been involved in a green card marriage scam. There was an FBI investigation into the matter in 2024, due to the bizarre circumstances of her missing person’s case. It’s also worth noting that Kobayashi’s mother found immigration documents in her daughter’s Hawaii home. During the time she was missing, it was uncovered that she was accompanied by an unidentified man in downtown Los Angeles.

As confirmed in an X (formerly Twitter) post by the family’s attorney, the Kobayashi family was just as confused about her disappearance as the public was. “We want to stress that the family has not publicly announced any information regarding an alleged marriage because we did not have the facts or the necessary documents to verify,” Sara Azari wrote on Dec. 4. Since the investigation, no evidence has been confirmed that indicates Hannah indeed did get involved with a marriage scam.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

What ethnicity is Hannah Kobayashi?

Hannah Kobayashi is a native Hawaiian, which means she has Polynesian roots. 

What is Hannah Kobayashi’s career?

She is a photographer by trade, but works worldwide, so travel is a regular part of her career.

Blavity reported that Anthony, now 18, was released on a $250,000 bond initially set at $1 million for allegedly fatally stabbing fellow track athlete Austin Metcalf, 17, during an argument at a track meet on April 2. What is Karmelo […]

Chris Brown is free after being held in a British jail for a week on an assault charge.

The Grammy-winning singer, who faced allegations for assaulting a music producer with a bottle in a London nightclub in 2023, was released on Wednesday with a 5 million-pound ($6.7 million) bail.

What’s next for Chris Brown after posting bail?

Brown can now continue with his Breezy Bowl XX Tour, which is expected to kick off on June 8 in the Netherlands. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the tour initially appeared to be in jeopardy because Brown was scheduled to appear in court on June 13. However, Judge Tony Baumgartner has now ensured that Brown, who was initially denied bail, can now continue with the tour.

Brown, however, is still scheduled to appear at Southwark Crown Court in London on June 20, Reuters reported.

The court has also told Brown to surrender his passport, but he is permitted to use it when he is traveling for his tour.

Why was Chris Brown arrested in England?

Brown was arrested at a Manchester hotel after traveling to England last week. According to Reuters, prosecutors said the singer committed an “unprovoked attack” on a music producer at London’s Tape nightclub in 2023. 

District Judge Joanne Hirst initially ordered for the case to be moved to Southwark Crown Court, saying the charges are too serious to be heard at a magistrates’ court. Meanwhile, Brown’s fans gathered outside Manchester Magistrates’ Court to show their support for the singer.

A grassroots group known as The People’s Union has launched a nationwide boycott against Walmart as the company continues to increase prices while being hit with tariffs.

John Schwarz, founder of The People’s Union, announced the boycott on Tuesday, saying the protest will go from May 20-26.

What’s behind the boycott against Walmart?

The People’s Union is encouraging customers to boycott all of Walmart’s locations and online stores, as well as any Walmart-branded companies. The boycott also includes private label brands Great Value and Equate, USA Today reported.

In a social media post on May 20, Schwarz explained why people need to boycott Walmart.

“Because after all the record profits, all the tax loopholes, all the corporate greed, Walmart now once again wants to raise prices,” Schwarz said. “But this time, because of the tariffs, as if they’re not already raking in billions, as if they can’t absorb the cost. As if you and I should carry this burden.”

Throughout the year, The People’s Union has been leading boycott movements against several brands, including Amazon and Nestle. Schwarz told USA Today earlier this year that he was surprised when he got so much attention after announcing a one-day consumer blackout on Feb. 28.

Although Walmart has also been facing pushback from social justice advocates for rolling back DEI programs, Schwarz told The Arizona Republic that his organization’s latest move is not directly related to the company’s DEI policy.

What is Walmart’s response to the boycott?

Amid a looming boycott, Walmart continues to hail itself as a company that uplifts customers of all backgrounds.

“As one of the largest corporate taxpayers in the country, not only do we pay our fair share, we are an economic force multiplier strengthening communities nationwide through job creation, supplier growth, and over $1.7 billion in cash and in-kind donations last year,” the company said in a statement, per USA Today. “We remain dedicated to earning the business of all Americans and giving our time and resources to causes that uplift and unite communities who rely on us every day.”

The Florida native, born Rodarius Marcell Green, was taken into custody on Tuesday on 14 charges, according to Fulton County, Georgia’s online arrest records obtained by USA Today. He was booked in the Fulton County Jail and released on $50,000 […]

The longstanding retail chain confirmed that seven stores will close on Sunday. Blavity reported that the move was first announced in February when the company stated it would shut down a “handful” of locations. “While we do not have plans […]

A new study found that synthetic hair brands used for braiding contain harmful chemicals. Consumer Reports said it found carcinogens in all the products they tested.

The company analyzed 10 synthetic hair products from the following brands: Sensationnel, Magic Fingers, Sassy Collection, Shake-N-Go, Hbegant, Debut and Darling.

What are the health risks of synthetic braiding hair?

The study found carcinogens like methylene chloride and benzene, the latter of which is known to cause acute myeloid leukemia. It also found lead, which has been linked to immune system suppression, reproductive issues, kidney damage and hypertension. 

The study also found volatile organic compounds (also known as VOCs), including acetone. VOCs are released into the hair, notably when hair is heated. This includes the use of hot tools such as a hot iron or a lighter, as well as hot water often used to seal a hairstyle.

VOCs may cause eye, nose and throat irritation, as well as cause nausea, damage the central nervous system and cancer, according to the American Lung Association and as reported by Consumer Reports.

It noted that children are particularly at risk because of the presence of harmful chemicals. For instance, lead can impair brain development and cause developmental problems. Experts also point to these substances as potential endocrine disruptors.

“We know that they look like endocrine disruptors—they look like things that can mess with our body’s normal hormonal system,” Tamarra James-Todd, an associate professor at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and a lab director of the school’s Environmental Reproductive Justice Lab, told Consumer Reports.

She adds that Black women in particular have been found to have higher concentrations of endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

“What is unique about braid extensions is the length of exposure users have to them,” Chrystal Thomas, a student at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the City University of New York who prompted the study, said. “Synthetic braids are typically worn for about four to six weeks. Black women and other individuals who use synthetic hair are, therefore, exposed to those ingredients consistently during that time.”

Signs that you may be allergic to synthetic braiding hair

Some symptoms can be observed immediately.

“Symptoms include redness, swelling, and rashes on the scalp, neck, or face,” James E. Rogers, a director and head of product safety testing, said, according to Consumer Reports. It “occurs when the immune system reacts to allergens present in synthetic hair. It can be associated with any dyes or coloring used in the product,” he added.

Dr. Chesahna Kindred, a dermatologist, said some of her patients experienced symptoms right after installation.

“It would look like contact dermatitis, which is when the scalp is inflamed, it’s red, the patient complained about an itching or burning sensation, and we would have to treat it with a cortisone,” she said.

The skin on the neck can also be affected and lead to breakouts. If you are experiencing such symptoms, it is recommended to take out the braids as soon as possible. Although symptoms may occur shortly after an appointment, health risks may take years to present themselves.

How did braiding hair companies respond to the study’s findings?

Consumer Reports said it contacted each synthetic hair it analyzed samples from. Sensationnel and Magic Fingers responded to the findings while disputing the study’s claims. 

“Magic Fingers is proud of the trusted and top-quality hair products we provide to our customers,” the company wrote in a statement, according to WSB-TV. “Our customers know they can count on us for braids and extensions that meet their highest expectations for fashion and performance. The unusual testing methods employed by Consumer Reports do not fairly match the real-world way that our customers use our Braiding Hair.”

Sensationnel also provided a statement: “We pride ourselves on producing the finest quality hair products on the market, and we are constantly evaluating our materials and processes with customer safety in mind.”

“The claims and conclusions presented by the Consumer Reports study are unfounded and misleading. Its study used a harsh and unusual testing methodology on hair braiding products that are clearly not intended for ingestion. We strongly disagree with the claims Consumer Reports makes about the potential risk to consumers that could arise from the safe and common use of our products,” it added. “We unequivocally stand by the safety of Sensationnel products, and our company urges consumers to continue to confidently use Sensationnel products.”

The approval process for COVID-19 vaccines is going to look very different in the U.S. In a nutshell, Trump officials no longer want to approve annual COVID-19 boosters for healthy adults and children. This means that millions of Americans may lose access to updated COVID-19 boosters.

Going forward, the Trump administration only wants to offer the vaccines to those 65 and older or high-risk individuals.

“Is the pharmacist going to determine if you’re in a high-risk group?” asked Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine expert at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, PBS reported. “The only thing that can come of this will make vaccines less insurable and less available.”

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration wants to hold new clinical trials proving that COVID-19 shots are still safe and effective for healthy adults and children.

“We simply don’t know whether a healthy 52-year-old woman with a normal BMI who has had COVID-19 three times and has received six previous doses of a COVID-19 vaccine will benefit from the seventh dose,” the FDA officials wrote.

Why is the FDA planning to restrict access to COVID-19 vaccines?

The FDA’s announcement comes as vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who now leads the Department of Health and Human Services, raises more concerns over the COVID-19 vaccines.

FDA officials want to conduct clinical trials — which, in reality, could prove to be too costly for pharmaceutical companies — in order to prove that the COVID-19 vaccine is still safe and effective for healthy individuals. If the plan follows through, only 33 percent of Americans will be eligible to get the COVID-19 shot on an annual basis.

“We simply don’t know whether a healthy 52-year-old woman with a normal B.M.I. who has had COVID-19 three times and has received six previous doses of a COVID-19 vaccine will benefit from the seventh dose,” FDA officials wrote, per The New York Times.

What are experts saying about the possibility of COVID-19 vaccines being restricted?

“This is overly restrictive and will deny many people who want to be vaccinated a vaccine,” Dr. Anna Durbin, director of the Center for Immunization Research at Johns Hopkins University, said via email, according to The New York Times.

The changes do “not make sense from a public health perspective,” Durbin added.

Another expert argued that limiting access to the COVID-19 vaccine would only cause more distrust among Americans.

“Since the public trust in vaccines has declined, I would hope that we would be thoughtful about preserving vaccine choice for people who want to get vaccinated,” said Dr. Denise Jamieson, VP for medical affairs at the University of Iowa. Jamieson also serves as a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention adviser on immunizations.

From her perspective, the announcement “doesn’t preserve people’s choice to get vaccinated.”

While walking the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival on Monday, Denzel Washington got into it with a photographer who appeared to get physical with the actor to get his attention in clips of the incident, which quickly went viral on social media.

Washington was attending the world premiere of Highest 2 Lowest when the incident occurred. The actor was talking to the movie’s director, Spike Lee, on the red carpet when a photographer grabbed Washington’s arm to get his attention.

Washington reprimanded the photographer and pointed his finger at him. The photographer appeared to nod in agreement with a smile on their face. Once the actor turned around, the paparazzo grabbed him again.

A peeved Washington pulled away and appeared to say, “Stop,” repeatedly.

Washington stars in Highest 2 Lowest, his fifth collaboration with Lee, alongside A$AP Rocky, Ilfenesh Hadera and Jeffrey Wright.

Washington’s representative said ‘It was a great evening’ for the actor

Though the incident appeared tense, Washington’s representative told People, “It was a great evening” for the actor. Afterward, Washington was surprised with the Honorary Palme d’Or, Cannes’ highest honor, before Highest 2 Lowest premiered. Lee presented the actor with the award as they introduced the movie to screening attendees.

“This is a total surprise for me, so I’m a little emotional, but from the bottom of my heart, I thank you all. It was a great opportunity to collaborate with my brother once again — brother from another mother, Spike,” Washington said while accepting the award.

He continued, “To be here once again in Cannes, you know, we’re a very privileged group in this room that we get to make movies and wear tuxedos and nice clothes and dress up and get paid for it as well,” Washington added, to laughter. “You know, we’re just blessed beyond measure, I’m blessed beyond measure, and from the bottom of my heart, I thank you all. Thank you.”

Social media appears to be on Washington’s side, with many users on X, formerly Twitter, rushing to his defense.

I don’t need to know what happened..I’m on Denzel’s side— jrfromdallas (@DallasNYorker) May 19, 2025

It’s obvious he didn’t want to be touched, yet he was touched again, and then the guy grabbed his arm to hold him in place. What was that?!— Loren (@stocksandgo) May 20, 2025

Many have noted that this is a recurring issue for Black attendees at Cannes.“they keep on doing this to black people at Cannes, the difference is denzel washington is short a fuse or two,” one user wrote, with a video of him jokingly threatening Pedro Pascal for “making time with [his] wife,” Pauletta Washington.

“They’re always trying ‘us’ over there….,” another echoed with a picture of a similar incident involving Kelly Rowland at the festival last year.