“I Don’t Care About Doing Big Movies or Leads”

In the interview, Pattinson explained that his post-strike strategy was born out of a desire for artistic freedom rather than chasing traditional blockbuster status:

“I just changed my mindset, going, ‘I don’t care about doing big movies or leads. I’m just going to do stuff I find interesting.’ And then somehow, I don’t understand how the scheduling actually even worked out, because I literally left Die My Love and flew to The Drama. I finished that and flew to Primetime basically the same day. I was kind of producing [Primetime] as well. We were prepping four films at the same time. But I think it’s worked out. At the end of this, I’m definitely taking a vacation.”

Flying From Set to Set

The actor’s relentless slate illustrates just how in-demand he has become among premier auteurs and indie studios alike:

• Die, My Love: Directed by Lynne Ramsay and co-starring Jennifer Lawrence, the dark comedy-drama wrapped after an intense shoot that Pattinson described as both artistically challenging and emotionally raw.
• The Drama: Immediately after wrapping Ramsay’s film, Pattinson boarded a flight to set for Kristoffer Borgli’s romance thriller alongside Zendaya, stepping straight into another demanding co-starring role.
• Primetime: Rounding out the marathon, Pattinson transitioned directly into producing and starring in Lance Oppenheim’s debut narrative feature Primetime, inspired by 2000s reality investigative television.

A Well-Earned Rest on the Horizon

With a slate that also includes appearances in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey and Denis Villeneuve’s Dune Messiah, Pattinson’s sheer ubiquity across cinema screens has made him one of the most talked-about actors in Hollywood. However, after juggling producing duties and starring roles simultaneously across four prepping productions, the star is finally ready to step away from camera lights and enjoy a long-awaited hiatus.

Following a scorching-hot 1997 streak that saw him star in The Fifth Element, Money Talks, and Quentin Tarantino’s Jackie Brown, Tucker took on the role of LAPD Detective James Carter in 1998’s Rush Hour. The action-comedy co-starring Jackie Chan grossed over $240 million globally, turning Tucker into a marquee powerhouse overnight.

Rather than capitalizing on the wave by signing onto standard studio comedies, Tucker went on an unprecedented nine-year stretch where his entire theatrical filmography consisted of just three movies:

• Rush Hour (1998): The original blockbuster that established his electric dynamic with Jackie Chan.
• Rush Hour 2 (2001): Released three years later, the sequel grossed $347 million worldwide, cementing the duo as box-office royalty.
• Rush Hour 3 (2007): Arriving after a six-year break from movie screens, the installment earned Tucker a historic $25 million paycheck—making him the highest-paid actor in Hollywood at the time.

Quality, Faith, and Freedom

Tucker’s decision to avoid Hollywood oversaturation came down to a deliberate mix of personal values and financial independence:

Following a renewed commitment to his Christian faith in the late ’90s, Tucker grew hyper-selective about scripts, turning down multimillion-dollar offers for roles that relied on heavy profanity or themes he no longer felt comfortable performing.

Because his Rush Hour contracts secured monumental upfront salaries and backend points, Tucker possessed the rare luxury of financial freedom, freeing him from taking jobs simply to stay working.

During his years away from movie sets, Tucker returned to his roots, touring globally as a headlining stand-up comedian and dedicating time to international philanthropic causes.

When he finally broke his non-Rush Hour hiatus with 2012’s Oscar-nominated Silver Linings Playbook, critics universally praised his return—proving that stepping away from the Hollywood machine only heightened his enduring movie-star appeal.

1. The ’90s Power Couple: Cindy Crawford (Married 1991–1995)

At the peak of his Pretty Woman fame, Gere struck up a whirlwind romance with supermodel Cindy Crawford. The pair famously eloped in Las Vegas in December 1991, exchanging aluminum-foil rings at a quickie chapel. Despite dominating tabloid headlines and red carpets worldwide as the ultimate ’90s power couple, the pair divorced four years later, with Crawford later citing their 17-year age gap and lack of foundational friendship for the split.

2. A Quiet Decades-Long Chapter: Carey Lowell (Married 2002–2016)

Following his high-visibility marriage to Crawford, Gere began dating former Bond girl and Law & Order actress Carey Lowell in 1995. The ultra-private couple welcomed their son, Homer James Jigme Gere, in 2000 before tying the knot in a quiet 2002 ceremony. Though they separated in 2013 after nearly two decades together—citing differing lifestyle preferences between Gere’s quiet Buddhist meditation routines and Lowell’s social preferences—they remained committed co-parents.

3. True Love and Family Life in Spain: Alejandra Silva (Married 2018–Present)

Gere found enduring love with Spanish activist and publicist Alejandra Silva. Despite a 33-year age gap, the pair connected deeply over shared humanitarian causes and Buddhism, marrying in a secret 2018 ceremony. Together, they share two young sons, Alexander (born 2019) and James (born 2020). The couple recently uprooted their life in California to relocate to Spain, with Gere embracing this era of his life centered around family, activism, and a quieter domestic routine.

Notable Hollywood Romances

Beyond his three marriages, Gere’s high-profile dating history includes brief, talked-about connections with several notable cultural figures:

• Padma Lakshmi: The actor dated the Top Chef host briefly in 2014 following his separation from Lowell.
• Sylvia Martins: Gere shared a long-term relationship with the Brazilian painter throughout the late 1970s and 1980s.
• Penelope Milford: Early in his career, Gere dated his stage co-star during his initial rise to Hollywood stardom in the late ’70s.

Visitors navigating to her long-time domain are now redirected to a sleek, re-themed platform featuring a stark red-and-black visual identity centered on a close-up portrait of the artist against a vivid red background.

A Striking New Visual Identity

The revamped platform serves as a clean break from her Endless Summer Vacation cycle, establishing a high-contrast aesthetic that fan communities have immediately seized upon:

• The Single-Name Header: Prominently replacing her full name, the header now reads “MILEY” in bold, capitalized typography across the top navigation menu.
• The Red Era Aesthetic: The visual overhaul leans heavily into a fiery red color palette—aligning with previous hints the singer dropped regarding the concept, mood, and artwork for her forthcoming project.
• Domain Streamlining: The official portal now redirects through mileyofficial.com, quietening her legacy domain to match the streamlined persona.

Fulfilling a A Decade-Long Vision

While dropping a surname is a power move reserved for pop royalty, the transition to a single name is something the singer has pondered for over a decade. During interviews surrounding her 2013 Bangerz era, she openly admitted to considering dropping “Cyrus” to distance her solo artistry from childhood TV expectations before ultimately deciding to redefine the household name on her own terms.

Thirteen years later—with record-breaking global hits, critical acclaim, and an established legacy under her belt—the move feels less like a escape from her past and more like an effortless entry into pop mononym status.

What Lies Ahead for ‘MILEY’

The website refresh marks the official opening salvo for her upcoming era under Atlantic Records. Following hints of a focused, 10-track project and a return to organic, vocal-driven storytelling, the rebrand suggests a tightly curated artistic chapter is imminent.

Whether “MILEY” serves as the official title for her next studio album or her permanent stage moniker moving forward, the pop chameleon has once again proven her unmatched ability to command the spotlight and keep the industry guessing.

1. Edward Lewis – Pretty Woman (1990)

Gere cemented his status as the ultimate romantic lead as Edward Lewis, a ruthless corporate raider whose cold exterior melts after hiring a vibrant Hollywood Boulevard escort (Julia Roberts). Their electric screen chemistry turned the Garry Marshall romantic comedy into a global pop-culture titan that grossed over $463 million worldwide.

2. Zack Mayo – An Officer and a Gentleman (1982)

In Taylor Hackford’s classic romantic drama, Gere played Zack Mayo, a brash US Navy aviation officer candidate forced to confront his personal demons under a grueling drill instructor (Louis Gossett Jr.). The iconic climax—featuring Gere carrying Debra Winger out of a factory in full dress whites—remains one of the most celebrated moments in romance history.

3. Billy Flynn – Chicago (2002)

Showcasing his song-and-dance talent, Gere starred as slick, silver-tongued defense attorney Billy Flynn in Rob Marshall’s Oscar-winning musical adaptation. Delivering tap routines and courtroom theatricality with effortless flair, Gere earned a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

4. Julian Kaye – American Gigolo (1980)

Paul Schrader’s stylish crime drama catapulted Gere to stardom as Julian Kaye, a high-class Los Angeles male escort framed for murder. Marked by sleek Giorgio Armani wardrobe styling and a haunting synth soundtrack, Gere’s seductive, complex performance defined Y2K-precursor ’80s cinema aesthetics.

5. Martin Vail – Primal Fear (1996)

In Gregory Hoblit’s gripping courtroom thriller, Gere played Martin Vail, an arrogant, media-savvy defense lawyer taking on the high-profile murder trial of an altar boy (Edward Norton). Gere provided the grounded anchor necessary to make the film’s legendary twist ending land with maximum impact.

6. Bill – Days of Heaven (1978)

Early in his career, Gere starred in Terrence Malick’s breathtaking period masterpiece as Bill, a hot-tempered Chicago laborer who flees to the Texas Panhandle with his girlfriend and sister. Gere’s raw, naturalistic performance set against golden-hour cinematography announced him as a major dramatic actor.

7. Robert Miller – Arbitrage (2012)

Delivering one of the finest late-career dramatic turns of his filmography, Gere starred as a desperate hedge-fund magnate frantically scrambling to cover up financial fraud and a fatal accident before his company sale goes through. The performance earned him widespread critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination.

8. Ike Graham – Runaway Bride (1999)

Reuniting a decade later with Julia Roberts and director Garry Marshall, Gere played a cynical New York newspaper columnist who travels to rural Maryland to report on a woman famous for leaving fiances at the altar. Their natural rhythm and comedic timing turned the reunion into another massive box-office hit.

9. Edward Sumner – Unfaithful (2002)

In Adrian Lyne’s tense psychological thriller, Gere delivered a quiet, heartbreaking turn as a mild-mannered husband who discovers his wife (Diane Lane) is having a passionate affair. Gere’s slow-burn transition from quiet hurt to volatile betrayal showcased some of his most nuanced dramatic work.

10. Professor Parker Wilson – Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009)

In Lasse Hallström’s tear-jerking drama based on a true story, Gere played a university professor who forms an unbreakable bond with an abandoned Akita dog. Gere’s genuine warmth and gentle performance turned the indie feature into an enduring international fan favorite.

How a Fan Dream Turned into a Real Brotherhood

Before they became close friends, Tucker was a lifelong fan who frequently impersonated Jackson in his early stand-up routines. Their paths officially crossed in the late 1990s, when Jackson personally reached out to meet the comedy star following the massive success of Rush Hour.

What began as a meeting between fan and idol quickly transformed into a genuine brotherhood built on mutual respect, shared humor, and a mutual desire to escape the pressures of global superstardom.

“Michael was like a big brother to me,” Tucker has frequently reflected during his stand-up shows. “He called me up out of nowhere after Rush Hour released, and from that day on, we were hanging out at Neverland, traveling, and talking about life.”

Immortalized in Music: “You Rock My World”

Their bond extended into their professional work when Jackson personally invited Tucker to star in the music video for his 2001 hit single “You Rock My World”, alongside screen legend Marlon Brando.

The short film highlighted their effortless comedic chemistry, with Tucker playing Jackson’s charismatic wingman. Featuring a playful dance-off where Tucker attempted—and hilariously struggled—to match Jackson’s signature moves, the video remains a fan-favorite artifact of early 2000s pop culture.

Neverland Antics and Hilarious Memories

Over the years, Tucker’s legendary stand-up bits about Jackson have provided fans with warm, humanizing glimpses into the notoriously private pop star’s life.

From hilarious stories about riding golf carts and watching movies together at the Neverland Ranch to Jackson playfully trying to teach Tucker how to dance, Tucker’s anecdotes showed a side of Jackson that few outside his inner circle ever got to see—playful, funny, and deeply grounded in friendship.

Standing by His Friend Through Thick and Thin

When Jackson faced intense legal battles and public scrutiny in the mid-2000s, Tucker remained an unwavering source of loyalty and support. He publicly stood by Jackson, testifying on his behalf and maintaining that their friendship was rooted entirely in genuine care and family-like love.

Following Jackson’s tragic passing in 2009, Tucker has continued to keep his friend’s memory alive through heartfelt tributes, fond storytelling, and honoring the King of Pop’s enduring musical legacy.

As Chris Tucker celebrates his 55th birthday today, his friendship with Michael Jackson remains a testament to the special bond shared by two global icons who found real connection and laughter amidst the whirlwind of fame.

To celebrate his birthday, here is a retrospective on his 10 most famous cinematic roles.

1. Detective James Carter – Rush Hour Franchise (1998–2007)

As LAPD Detective James Carter opposite Jackie Chan’s Inspector Lee, Tucker created one of the most wildly successful and beloved buddy-cop dynamics in film history. His fast-talking, improvisational genius and infectious kinetic energy propelled the trilogy to over $840 million worldwide, making Tucker one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood at the height of the franchise’s success.

2. Smokey – Friday (1995)

In F. Gary Gray’s cult-classic stoner comedy, Tucker stole every single scene as Smokey, the neighborhood slacker hanging out on the porch alongside Ice Cube’s Craig. Delivering immortal lines that remain pop-culture staples three decades later, Tucker’s manic energy turned the low-budget movie into an enduring classic.

3. Ruby Rhod – The Fifth Element (1997)

Few supporting turns in sci-fi history are as outrageously flamboyant or unforgettable as Tucker’s performance as futuristic talk-show host Ruby Rhod. Clad in leopard prints and velvet bodysuits, Tucker brought electric theatricality, ear-piercing shrieks, and unstoppable camp energy to Luc Besson’s cult visual masterpiece.

4. Franklin Hatchett – Money Talks (1997)

Marking his first creative partnership with director Brett Ratner, Tucker starred as Franklin Hatchett, a fast-talking ticket hustler wrongfully framed for a prison break. Pairing Tucker’s chaotic physical humor with Charlie Sheen’s straight-laced reporter, the action-comedy proved Tucker possessed the star power to carry a studio feature as top-billed talent.

5. Beaumont Livingston – Jackie Brown (1997)

Quentin Tarantino tapped Tucker for a brief but critical supporting turn in his homage to ’70s crime cinema. Playing Beaumont Livingston, a nervous gunrunner facing federal prison time, Tucker displayed impressive dramatic control opposite Samuel L. Jackson in a tense, memorable trunk scene that highlighted his range within prestige auteur filmmaking.

6. Skip – Dead Presidents (1995)

Stepping away from pure comedy early in his career, Tucker delivered a tragic, grounded performance in the Hughes brothers’ crime drama about Black Vietnam veterans struggling upon returning home. Playing Skip, a drug-dependent veteran caught up in a desperate armored car heist, Tucker revealed a serious dramatic depth.

7. Danny McDaniels – Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

Returning to the big screen after a five-year hiatus, Tucker delivered a warm, scene-stealing supporting performance as Danny, a optimistic psychiatric patient and friend to Bradley Cooper’s Pat. His performance earned widespread critical acclaim and shared in the film’s SAG Ensemble nomination.

8. Howard White – Air (2023)

In Ben Affleck’s biographical sports drama about Nike signing Michael Jordan, Tucker stepped into the role of real-life Nike executive Howard White. Tucker brought authentic charm, humor, and depth to the star-studded ensemble, even helping write additional material for his character.

9. Johnny Booze – House Party 3 (1994)

Marking his official feature film debut following his breakout performances on HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, Tucker turned a minor role as party promoter Johnny Booze into an instant highlight of the comedy sequel. His rapid-fire comedic rhythm signaled the arrival of a major new voice in comedy.

10. Albert Brown – Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk (2016)

Working under Oscar-winning director Ang Lee, Tucker played Albert Brown, an astute movie producer attempting to secure film rights for a unit of Iraq War heroes. Tucker brought a subtle blend of Hollywood slickness and genuine empathy to the drama, continuing his tradition of selective, high-caliber collaborations.

At just 30, Holland is also the youngest actor by far to reach the upper echelons of the all-time box office list.

A Summer 2026 Box Office Surge

Holland’s leap into the top three comes courtesy of an unprecedented 2026 theatrical run. Powered by his dual blockbusters—Christopher Nolan’s historical epic The Odyssey and Marvel Studios’ record-shattering Spider-Man: Brand New Day—Holland leapfrogged fellow Marvel star Chris Pratt to secure his place in the top three.

Combined with his previous cinematic juggernauts, including the Spider-Man homecoming trilogy, Uncharted, and his ensemble turns in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, Holland’s collective career filmography has officially crossed the $15 billion threshold globally.

The All-Time Worldwide Top 5 (Leading & Ensemble Roles)

1. Zoë Saldaña (~$15.47 Billion)
2. Scarlett Johansson (~$15.40 Billion)
3. Tom Holland (~$15.10 Billion)
4. Chris Pratt (~$15.05 Billion)
5. Samuel L. Jackson (~$14.93 Billion)

Why Holland’s Milestone is Unprecedented

While the top of the box office leaderboard is heavily populated by Marvel Cinematic Universe veterans, Holland’s achievement stands out for several key reasons:

• Age and Longevity: While the majority of actors in the top 10 achieved their milestone totals in their 40s, 50s, or 60s, Holland reached the top three at just 30 years old.
• Franchise Anchor: Landing the role of Peter Parker at age 19 allowed Holland to build an unprecedented decade-long momentum, appearing in seven MCU blockbusters alongside standalone studio hits.
• Genre Range: Beyond superhero fare, Holland’s leading turns in video game adaptations (Uncharted) and prestige auteur cinema (The Odyssey) have proven his box-office draw extends across multiple genres.

With upcoming projects on his horizon and decades of his career still ahead, Holland is poised to continue threatening the top spot for years to come.

While specific storyline details are being kept under wraps, the project is actively searching for a writer to draft the script. Gosling is producing alongside his Open Invite partner, Jessie Henderson. While it remains unconfirmed whether Gosling intends to take on the starring role himself, the prospect of the Barbie actor portraying the preternaturally strong, grown-up Bamm-Bamm has already sparked widespread internet buzz.

Bamm-Bamm’s History of Growing Up

First introduced in the iconic 1960s Hanna-Barbera animated series as the adopted, club-swinging toddler son of Barney and Betty Rubble, Bamm-Bamm was known for his unmatched physical strength and simple two-word vocabulary. However, aging up the character is not without precedent in the franchise:

• The Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm Show (1971): The character first aged up into a teenager, attending Bedrock High School, dating Fred and Wilma’s daughter Pebbles, and playing in a band called the Bedrock Rockers.
• Later Animated Specials: Subsequent TV movies followed Bamm-Bamm and Pebbles through adulthood, showing them getting married and starting a family of their own.
• Live-Action Precedents: Bamm-Bamm previously appeared as a toddler in Universal’s 1994 box-office smash The Flintstones starring John Goodman and Rick Moranis, but was omitted from the 2000 prequel The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas.

Gosling’s Expanding Producer Slate

The project marks another major addition to Gosling and Henderson’s producing portfolio. Coming off the release of sci-fi adventure Project Hail Mary and preparing for the Toronto International Film Festival premiere of their romantic drama Love of Your Life, Gosling continues to leverage his producer clout to shepherd high-profile, inventive takes on classic Hollywood IP.

Born in a Coffee Shop: The Origins of Their Bond

Long before they shared a movie set, a 14-year-old Drew Barrymore met a 16-year-old aspiring model Cameron Diaz at a Los Angeles coffee shop and juice bar where Diaz worked. Barrymore, already a veteran actor, felt an instant kinship with the grounded, upbeat teenager.

Years later, when Barrymore was producing the 2000 feature adaptation of Charlie’s Angels through her Flower Films banner, Diaz was her absolute first choice for Natalie Cook. Their dynamic on set solidified a lifelong partnership, with Barrymore affectionately dubbing Diaz “DPO” (Drew’s Protection Officer) for her fiercely protective nature, while Diaz calls Barrymore “Pooh Bear.”

Supporting Each Other Through Every Chapter

Throughout their respective decades in the spotlight, the duo’s friendship has expanded far beyond red carpets:

• Life Milestones: Diaz served as a bridesmaid in Barrymore’s weddings, and Barrymore was a key guest when Diaz married Good Charlotte guitarist Benji Madden in 2015.
• Motherhood & Growth: As both actors transitioned into parenthood and expanded their business empires—Barrymore with her daytime talk show and Flower Beauty line, Diaz with her organic wine company Avaline—they have frequently credited each other with providing emotional grounding.
• Unfiltered Media Appearances: Whether crashing each other’s interviews or sharing unedited, makeup-free photos on social media, their public interactions consistently celebrate aging, authenticity, and female empowerment.

Reflecting on their connection, Barrymore has famously stated that Diaz isn’t just a best friend, but “the person I would call in an absolute emergency—my sister in every life.”

The Ultimate Goal: Stadium World Tours

While chart positions and streaming tallies dominate industry headlines, Larsson measures her evolution through the physical connection she shares with her audience:

“The older I get, it’s becoming clearer and clearer to me that my passion and what I really care about is people coming to my shows. For me, the ultimate success would be a stadium world tour. People have taken time out of their real lives. They paid money to experience this with their friends, and I get to be on stage and sing live. The live culture of it all is what I really, really care about.”

Building a Culture Beyond Music

With Midnight Sun, Larsson has watched her music transform into a living, breathing movement. Fans arrive at venues decked out in flowers, glitter, and vibrant colors, treating every concert as a shared celebration:

• More Than a Song: “What’s been so amazing about Midnight Sun is I feel like it’s gone beyond just a good album or a good song. People are being invited into my world by putting on their outfits and their flowers and the glitter and the colours. The culture around it is how I feel successful.”
• Real-Life Impact: “Spotify charts and all of that, I think it all goes hand in hand. But ultimately, I just want people to really, truly fuck with it in real life. I see that the clearest at a live show.”

The Green Day Spark

Larsson’s high-octane stage presence and famous fan-onstage moments were sparked by watching rock legends Green Day at Coachella. Inspired by their spontaneous crowd connection, Larsson began pulling fans on stage during “Lush Life,” creating viral TikTok dance moments that grew organically across her world tour.

As she continues commanding festival stages across the globe, Larsson remains focused on the tangible reality of her artistry: turning every performance into an unrepeatable, high-voltage celebration.

To celebrate her birthday, here is the definitive breakdown of her 10 greatest cinematic performances.

1. Mary Jensen – There’s Something About Mary (1998)

The Farrelly brothers’ raunchy classic catapulted Diaz from promising talent to global comedy superstar. Playing the sweet, oblivious, and endlessly sought-after Mary, Diaz’s flawless physical comedy and genuine charm earned her a Golden Globe nomination and created some of the most iconic comedic scenes in modern cinema history.

2. Lotte Schwartz – Being John Malkovich (1999)

Stepping entirely outside her glamorous image, Diaz transformed into Lotte, a frizzy-haired, pet-obsessed woman who discovers a portal into the mind of actor John Malkovich. Her unrecognizable, deeply complex performance in Spike Jonze’s surreal masterpiece earned her Golden Globe, SAG, and BAFTA nominations.

3. Tina Carlyle – The Mask (1994)

At just 21 years old and with no prior acting credits, Diaz made one of the most famous feature debuts in film history. Opposite Jim Carrey, her entrance as lounge singer Tina Carlyle ignited the screen, turning The Mask into a massive box-office phenomenon and launching her career overnight.

4. Amanda Woods – The Holiday (2006)

Nancy Meyers’ beloved romantic comedy features Diaz as Amanda, a high-strung Los Angeles movie trailer producer who swaps houses with a quiet English editor (Kate Winslet) for Christmas. Diaz’s frantic, heart-on-her-sleeve energy opposite Jude Law made the film a perennial holiday classic.

5. Natalie Cook – Charlie’s Angels (2000) & Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle (2003)

Joining forces with Drew Barrymore and Lucy Liu, Diaz brought high-octane martial arts, infectious joy, and effortless style to the big-screen reboot. Her portrayal of the goofy yet lethal Natalie Cook anchored the franchise to global box-office gold.

6. Princess Fiona – The Shrek Franchise (2001–Present)

Lending her voice to DreamWorks’ groundbreaking animated saga, Diaz subverted classic fairy-tale tropes as Princess Fiona. Balancing regal grace with kick-butt martial arts and ogre pride, her voice performance remains a cornerstone of modern animation.

7. Julie Gianni – Vanilla Sky (2001)

In Cameron Crowe’s psychological drama, Diaz delivered one of her most intense dramatic performances as Julie Gianni, an obsessed woman whose volatile jealousy unravels Tom Cruise’s character. Her haunting turn earned her fourth Golden Globe nomination.

8. Kimberly Wallace – My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997)

Stealing scenes opposite Julia Roberts, Diaz played Kimberly, a sweet, wealthy architecture student preparing to marry her fiancé. Her deliberately out-of-tune karaoke performance of “I Just Don’t Know What to Do with Myself” remains an unforgettable rom-com highlight.

9. Jenny Everdeane – Gangs of New York (2002)

Working under the direction of Martin Scorsese, Diaz starred alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Daniel Day-Lewis in this sprawling historical epic. Playing a street-smart pickpocket in 1860s Manhattan, Diaz showcased her dramatic fortitude in a heavy period piece.

10. Joy McNally – What Happens in Vegas (2008)

Opposite Ashton Kutcher, Diaz brought her signature slapstick energy to this hit romantic comedy about two strangers who get wildly drunk in Las Vegas, get married, and hit a $3 million slot machine jackpot. Her electric chemistry with Kutcher drove the film to over $219 million worldwide.

A Decade Away: Prioritizing Family and Avaline

Following the release of Annie in 2014, Diaz made the deliberate choice to step back from acting. Explaining that she needed to “reclaim her own life,” she spent her hiatus building a private home life away from paparazzi and launching her clean wine brand, Avaline, alongside partner Katherine Power in 2020.

In January 2015, she married Good Charlotte musician Benji Madden. Over the past decade, the couple has built a grounded family life in California, expanding their household to three children:

• Raddix Madden (born December 2019)
• Cardinal Madden (born March 2024)
• Nautas Madden (born spring 2026)

Diaz has been vocal about the joy of entering motherhood in her late 40s and 50s, describing parenting as “the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done”.

Returning to the Screen on Her Terms

After an 11-year break from the big screen, Diaz officially ended her acting hiatus by starring alongside Jamie Foxx in Netflix’s action-comedy Back in Action. Following that success, she re-entered studio filmmaking with Jonah Hill’s dark comedy Outcome, starring opposite Keanu Reeves and Matt Bomer.

As she steps into 54, Diaz continues to prove that career milestones and personal fulfillment don’t follow a rigid Hollywood timeline—balancing a thriving home life with selective, passion-driven creative projects.

‘The Dog Stars’ Opens With $3 Million

The Friday result came from 3,330 theaters across North America, putting the picture’s opening weekend on a relatively measured trajectory. Rival estimates currently project a $7.2 million total through Sunday, according to Variety.

The weekend figure would put the movie below the broader $10 million to $14 million opening range it had previously been projected to reach.

Scott’s latest film adapts Peter Heller‘s 2012 novel and follows Hig, a former mechanic and pilot trying to survive after a pandemic devastates humanity. Elordi plays Hig, while Brolin portrays Bangley, his former Marine companion.

The movie arrived in theaters following its London premiere on August 20. Its U.S. release came yesterday, after previously being scheduled for March 27 earlier this year.

Its theatrical performance comes as the film has received mixed critical reactions. “The Dog Stars” currently holds a 41% positive score from 160 critics on Rotten Tomatoes, while Metacritic has assigned it a 49 out of 100 based on 46 reviews. Audiences surveyed by CinemaScore gave it a C+ grade.

Kudrow discussed her enduring connection to the sitcom during a recent appearance on Fresh Air with Terry Gross & Tonya Mosley, according to People.

Lisa Kudrow Still Has Plenty of Love for Phoebe

Phoebe was one of the six central characters on “Friends,” portrayed by Kudrow throughout all 236 episodes of the sitcom’s 10-season run. The character became known for her eccentric worldview, unconventional personality, acoustic guitar performances and a collection of deliberately odd songs.

Among those songs, “Smelly Cat” became Phoebe’s signature musical moment. She first performs it at Central Perk, and the song eventually receives its own music video storyline after a record producer takes an interest in it.

Kudrow, however, does not appear interested in turning that particular piece of the character into a real-life performance on demand. “Sometimes people will stop me and say, ‘Oh, sing ‘Smelly Cat.’ I don’t want to do that. I really don’t want to do that,” she said.

The refusal comes alongside an otherwise warm assessment of her “Friends” experience. Kudrow highlighted the relationship among the cast members, recalling that they genuinely enjoyed spending time together. “That is so rare. And real honest respect, mutual respect.”

The actress also made a point of emphasizing that her positive memories extend beyond the series’ enormous success. For Kudrow, the experience included the effort the cast put into maintaining their bonds while working long shooting days, including spending downtime together and playing poker. “It was a really good relationship that took some work, and we did the work,” she stated.

Phoebe remains one of Kudrow’s defining roles, earning her major recognition during the show’s run, including a Primetime Emmy Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award and several other honors, along with a Golden Globe nomination. Yet when it comes to bringing one of Phoebe’s most famous songs back to life, Kudrow’s answer is simple: she would rather not.

Anne Hathaway Takes on a New Role in the Racing Sequel

The original “Days of Thunder” arrived in theaters in 1990, with Cruise starring as Cole Trickle, a young driver trying to establish himself in NASCAR. Directed by Tony Scott and produced by Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer, the picture followed Cole’s rise through the sport, his rivalry with Rowdy Burns, and his relationship with Dr. Claire Lewicki, played by Nicole Kidman.

The film was released by Paramount Pictures on June 27, 1990, and ultimately earned $157.9 million worldwide against a reported $60 million production budget. While its initial critical response was mixed, the movie developed a lasting following among NASCAR fans in the years that followed.

Cruise’s return as Cole Trickle had been in development for some time. In November 2024, reports indicated that the actor was in final negotiations to star in and produce a sequel. By July 2026, Jonathan Levine was reportedly in talks to direct from a screenplay by Will Staples, with production expected to begin in early 2027.

Hathaway’s character brings a new element to the story. While plot details for the sequel remain under wraps, she is expected to portray a team owner and engineer.

The sequel is now scheduled to arrive on June 2, 2028, with IMAX photography planned for the production. Cruise previously confirmed that the next chapter would arrive in summer 2028, making the latest announcement the most substantial casting update yet.

Dave Green Celebrates ‘Coyote vs. Acme’ Finally Reaching Audiences

Green opened his message by acknowledging the significance of seeing the movie in theaters at last. “COYOTE VS. ACME IS FINALLY, GLORIOUSLY, IN THEATERS NOW,” he wrote, before adding the simple declaration, “WE WON.” The director then encouraged audiences to experience the film as it was intended, on the big screen and alongside other moviegoers.

The celebration comes after years of uncertainty surrounding the project. Warner Bros. Discovery initially shelved the completed picture in 2023 as part of a planned tax write-off, a decision that triggered substantial backlash and eventually led to the filmmakers being allowed to pursue another distributor. The movie’s supporters also rallied behind campaigns including #ReleaseCoyoteVsAcme and #SaveCoyoteVsAcme as its fate remained unresolved.

Green’s message specifically recognized the people who spent years bringing the project to life. He described the accomplishment as belonging to the cast, crew and the various post-production and animation teams who invested their time and passion into the picture. He also turned his attention toward the audience, writing, “Your fight is the reason this film finally made it to the big screen.”

The director also offered a direct thank you to Ketchup Entertainment for taking on the movie after its complicated studio history. The distributor acquired the rights for approximately $50 million in 2025, ultimately giving the finished title a path to a theatrical release. Green’s message made clear that the audience’s persistence remained an important part of that journey.

By the end of his letter, Green returned to the broader idea behind the celebration. “This is a celebration, it’s proof that movies don’t just go away,” he wrote. He closed by urging viewers to enjoy the picture “on the big screen,” where he believes it was always meant to be seen.

Zara Larsson Wants Her Career to Count

Larsson’s music career began long before her recent surge in popularity. She first became known in Sweden after winning Talang in 2008 at age 10, and she signed with TEN Music Group in 2012. Her debut EP, Introducing, followed in 2013, establishing her as a recording artist well before her international breakthrough.

That early start eventually led to a major international career. Her 2017 album So Good produced global hits including “Lush Life,” “Never Forget You” and “Symphony,” while her subsequent releases continued to keep her among pop’s established names. The scale of that career is part of why Larsson takes issue with the idea of being classified as a new artist.

The conversation came up when Larsson’s former label discussed a possible Grammy campaign in the Best New Artist category. Her response was unequivocal: “I don’t even want that.” She added, “That would downplay the 13 years of me being an artist. I’m not a new artist.”

Larsson’s recent success has nevertheless brought a fresh wave of attention to her music. Her 2025 album Midnight Sun received critical acclaim, with its title track becoming her highest-charting solo song on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and earning her first Grammy nomination, for Best Dance Pop Recording.

The renewed momentum has also reached beyond her solo work. Her collaboration with PinkPantheress on “Stateside” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200, while “Lush Life” experienced another surge after a viral moment during Larsson’s Midnight Sun Tour.

Jake Reiner Opens Up About His Family’s Loss

Rob, the acclaimed filmmaker and actor behind “The Princess Bride,” “When Harry Met Sally…” and “A Few Good Men,” was found dead alongside Michele at their Brentwood home on Dec. 14, 2025. Both died from multiple sharp-force injuries, and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled their deaths homicides. Their daughter Romy discovered her father’s body and called for help.

Nick Reiner was arrested later that day near the University of Southern California. He was eventually charged with two counts of first-degree murder and pleaded not guilty. A Los Angeles County grand jury indicted him in July, with the indictment including special circumstance allegations involving multiple murders and lying in wait, as well as an allegation that he personally used a knife.

Jake described the passage of time since his parents’ deaths as difficult to comprehend. “It’s been 8 months. It feels like 8 years at the same time. And it also feels like 8 minutes,” he said. “Because every moment that I wake up, I’m reminded of my reality.”

The arrest of Nick added another painful dimension to the family’s loss. When asked about the reality of his brother being incarcerated, Jake struggled to articulate what the past eight months have meant. “I physically lost my parents. And then Nick was arrested. And now it’s me and Romy.” Nick remains in custody as the case proceeds, with a pretrial hearing scheduled for Sept. 15.

Amid everything that has happened, Jake also returned to the bond he remembers his parents sharing with their children. “My parents had unconditional love for all three of us,” he said.

Josh Brolin Reflects on Ridley Scott’s Approach to ‘The Dog Stars’

For Brolin, Scott’s age is part of what makes his continued work on “The Dog Stars” so striking. The performer pointed to the different paths legendary directors can take as their careers progress, noting that some eventually lose their edge while others manage to keep evolving.

“Great directors either lose it or they stay fresh like him at 88 years old,” Brolin said.

The actor also expressed genuine disbelief at the pace and precision Scott continues to bring to his productions. “I don’t know how he’s doing what he’s doing or is as sharp as he is,” he said, highlighting the director’s ability to remain fully engaged with the demands of filmmaking.

Brolin’s comments come as “The Dog Stars” marks his second collaboration with Scott. The two previously worked together on “American Gangster” in 2007, with Brolin playing Detective Inspector Nick Trupo in the crime drama. Their reunion comes nearly 20 years later, this time with Brolin portraying Bangley, a hardened former Marine living alongside Jacob Elordi‘s Hig in a world devastated by a flu pandemic.

The new picture finds Scott returning to science fiction with an adaptation of Peter Heller‘s 2012 novel. Written by Mark L. Smith, “The Dog Stars” also stars Margaret Qualley and Guy Pearce. The film was released in France and Italy yesterday and is scheduled to reach U.S. theaters on August 28 through 20th Century Studios.

Brolin also highlighted Scott’s appetite for changing directions rather than settling into a familiar formula. “He challenges himself in playing with different genres,” the actor said.

Will Forte Had Already Given Up on ‘Coyote vs. Acme’

When Warner Bros. Discovery initially shelved “Coyote vs. Acme” in November 2023, the decision came after the picture had already been completed. The studio intended to take a tax write-off, leaving the cast and crew with no clear path toward seeing their work released.

Forte recalled the period as “an emotional roller coaster,” particularly because supporters of the title continued pushing for its release online. At first, however, he did not believe the campaign would have an impact. “I didn’t think it would do anything,” the actor admitted.

That changed as the public pressure continued. “I was just like, ‘They’re not hearing you, it’s not going to make a difference.’ And then they just kept going and it’s because of them the movie’s out,” Forte stated.

The production eventually got another chance after Ketchup Entertainment acquired it in 2025. The distributor secured the rights for approximately $50 million, paving the way for a theatrical release after the project had spent years caught between cancellation and a possible sale,

For Forte, the experience became even more surreal once the film began receiving positive reviews. “I had given up on it and I can’t thank these people enough,” he said. “I always thought this movie was super special and the support from the community has meant so much.”

Forte also described the psychological toll of spending so long unsure whether audiences would ever see the finished project. “It’s made me feel sane; I felt gaslit for a while and their support, now the positive reviews coming out — [they] just make it feel like you’re not crazy.”

Now, “Coyote vs. Acme” is no longer a movie that exists only in stories about what might have been.

Billy Idol’s Injury Opened the Door for Robert Patrick

Directed by James Cameron, “Terminator 2: Judgement Day” arrived in 1991 as the highly anticipated follow-up to 1984’s “The Terminator.” The sequel brought back Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator, but reversed his role by making him John Connor’s protector while introducing the T-1000 as a new and more advanced threat.

Idol was initially considered for the part of the liquid-metal assassin. However, a 1990 motorcycle accident left the singer with a leg injury, making the physically demanding role, which required extensive running, impossible for him to perform as planned.

The change eventually led Cameron to search for an actor who was not already strongly associated with a particular screen persona. Patrick was relatively unknown at the time, which made him a fit for the director’s approach to the character. “Once the Billy Idol thing wasn’t gonna work out, [Cameron] decided to look for an unknown,” Patrick told PEOPLE.

That decision would introduce audiences to a completely different kind of movie villain. Patrick’s T-1000 could mimic people and objects while pursuing John Connor, played by 13-year-old Edward Furlong, and the actor’s performance became one of the defining elements of the sequel.

Looking back on landing the part 35 years later, Patrick still seems struck by how improbable the opportunity was. “It was just a thrill of a lifetime,” he recalled. “I couldn’t believe it. I still can’t believe it, to be honest with you, even though I did it. I don’t know how everything lined up.”

Jack Black’s Mother Played a Role in the Apollo 13 Mission

Born in Santa Monica in 1969, Black was the son of aerospace engineers Thomas William Black and Judith Love Cohen. While his father worked in the field of satellite engineering, his mother developed a remarkable career of her own. Cohen worked on several major aerospace projects during a period when women remained a small minority in engineering.

Cohen’s work included the guidance system for the Minuteman missile and the Apollo Lunar Module, as well as projects connected to the Hubble Space Telescope. Her work on the Apollo Abort-Guidance System became particularly significant during Apollo 13, when an oxygen tank explosion severely damaged the spacecraft’s Service Module and forced astronauts James Lovell, Jack Swigert and Fred Haise to rely on the Lunar Module to help them get home.

The Abort-Guidance System became an important part of that emergency return. With the Lunar Module’s resources limited and its primary guidance system requiring more water for cooling, the AGS was used during much of the journey back to Earth, including crucial course corrections. Cohen’s son Neil Siegel later described her Apollo work as the highlight of her engineering career and recalled that she was present when the Apollo 13 astronauts visited the TRW facility to thank the people involved.

That extraordinary professional background was part of the family environment in which Black grew up. His parents divorced when he was 10, and he later pursued acting at the Crossroads School before attending UCLA. He eventually left college to pursue entertainment, developing the career that would make him famous in films including “School of Rock”, “High Fidelity”, “Kung Fu Panda” and “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle”. His mother’s legacy, however, remains tied to an entirely different kind of Hollywood story, one that began millions of miles away from a movie set.

What Inspired ‘The Whisper Man’?

North’s first idea for the book had nothing to do with a real criminal case. “When I first started working on The Whisper Man, all I really knew was that I wanted to write about fathers and sons,” he wrote. “I had in mind a grieving, widowed man struggling to care for his little boy, and that the book should be a thriller, but I didn’t know much about what my main characters would be like.”

One of the experiences that stayed with him happened while he was in his 30s, when he attended a music festival with friends. After having breakfast at their hotel, North was unexpectedly told that someone had already checked out under his name and paid for the meal. The situation was eventually explained as a simple mix-up, but the stranger involved left an impression. “I asked her what the man had looked like. She couldn’t tell me. He had been in a hurry, she said, but there was nothing else about him that had stuck in her mind at all,” North recalled. “He had been so average and unremarkable that he could have been anybody — or nobody.”

The strange encounter immediately triggered his instincts as a writer. “I was unnerved,” North wrote, “but also excited.” His conclusion was simple: “The writer part of my brain was thinking, ‘Wow. This is a story.'” Years later, another moment at home would give him an idea that became much more closely tied to the novel’s unsettling atmosphere.

After moving houses, North heard his son apparently speaking to someone in another room. When he asked who was there, his son replied, “Oh, I’m just playing with the boy in the floor.” North recalled his reaction clearly: “A chill went through me. But there was excitement, too, because this was a story.” He then decided, “Right then, I decided that the little boy in my book would have imaginary friends, and that some of them would become increasingly sinister over the course of the story.”

There was another experience involving his son after North’s mother-in-law died. The child said that a woman came into his room at night and hugged him. North wrote that he is “a rational person” and believed that his son was “simply doing what all of us do to some degree: creating a narrative to make sense of his grief and to comfort himself.” Still, he admitted that “a part of me was still asking that question: ‘What if?’”

Such moments ultimately became pieces of the fictional world North created in “The Whisper Man,” rather than evidence of an actual case behind the story.

Avengers: Doomsday

Ramirez officially steps into the high-flying MCU crossover as Joaquin Torres (the new Falcon). Joining a massive ensemble cast taking on Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom, Ramirez’s fan-favorite hero takes center stage in Marvel’s late-2026 event picture.

Baton (Directorial Debut)

Written, directed, and starring Ramirez, this Miami-set soccer drama marks his feature directorial debut. The story follows an ousted pro player fighting to salvage his career and relationship with his sister. Ramirez pulled together a heavyweight cast—including Lewis Pullman, Camila Mendes, Diego Calva, and Édgar Ramírez—with soccer legend David Beckham and producer Victoria Alonso producing.

De Noche (with Pedro Pascal)

Teaming up with fellow star Pedro Pascal, Ramirez leads this atmospheric drama, continuing a banner run of high-profile collaborations alongside Hollywood’s premier Latin talent.

Miami Vice ’85 (with Austin Butler and Michael B. Jordan)

Stepping into the slick, neon-drenched crime world of 1980s South Florida, Ramirez joins Austin Butler and Michael B. Jordan in this high-octane reimagining of the iconic action-crime franchise.

Scarface

Taking on a pivotal role in a contemporary reimagining of the iconic crime saga, Ramirez brings a modern, culturally resonant perspective to the classic tale of ambition, hustle, and the American dream.

Samo Lives (with Kelvin Harrison Jr.)

Joining Kelvin Harrison Jr. in the biographical drama centered on legendary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, Ramirez tackles a key supporting role exploring the electric Downtown New York art scene of the 1980s.

The Juice (with Lewis Pullman)

Reuniting with his Top Gun: Maverick and Baton co-star Lewis Pullman, Ramirez headlines this tense, character-driven thriller examining guilt, survival, and unexpected choices.

Pursuit of Touch (Writer & Producer)

Expanding his footprint as a producer under his Pinstripes production banner, Ramirez serves as both writer and producer on this intimate project, showcasing his commitment to developing original, auteur-driven cinema.

The Ozzy Osbourne Movie Already Has Its Leading Man in Mind

The film appears to have moved well beyond the early development phase. Jack described the project as “gung-ho” and confirmed that the family already has a particular actor in mind for the central role. He stopped short of revealing the name, but indicated that discussions have already taken place.

“We do. I’m not allowed to say, but conversations have been had, and if it all works out, it’s gonna be awesome,” Jack revealed. For now, that leaves the identity of Ozzy’s potential onscreen counterpart as one of the movie’s biggest unanswered questions.

The script itself is also finished, putting the biopic in a position to begin assembling the creative team behind it. Jack said the family is “currently going out to directors,” meaning the next major decision will be determining who takes the helm of the story.

Jack has also made clear what he wants the finished film to feel like. In conversations surrounding the family business, he said he repeatedly returns to one guiding principle: “give the fans what they want.” That philosophy extends directly to the movie, which is being developed with Sony.

That approach also explains what Jack does not want the project to become. “We can’t make this artsy, esoteric biopic,” he said, adding, “No, we’re not doing that—for many reasons—but it’s not what the fans want.”

The announcement comes after a lucrative 97-day theatrical window following the film’s June 19 release, where it scored a massive $159 million opening weekend and went on to become the highest-grossing installment in the franchise’s 31-year history. The Disney+ streaming date arrives just one day after its physical 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray release on September 22.

Toy Meets Tech in Pixar’s $1.1 Billion Chapter

Directed by Pixar veteran Andrew Stanton and co-directed by McKenna Harris, the fifth installment reunites legacy voice stars Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz Lightyear), and Joan Cusack (Jessie):

• The Plot: In a storyline centering on “Toy meets Tech,” Woody, Buzz, and the gang find their place in Bonnie’s room challenged when she receives a sleek new tablet device named “Lilypad,” forcing the toys to navigate a high-tech era of childhood play.
• The Soundtrack: The film features an original track written and performed by Grammy winner Taylor Swift, titled “I Knew It, I Knew You,” which was showcased in Disney’s streaming release announcement video today.
• Box-Office Crown: Driven by massive family turnout and repeat viewings throughout July and August, Toy Story 5 surpassed 2019’s Toy Story 4 ($1.07 billion) to claim the crown as the ultimate financial juggernaut for Pixar’s flagship series.

Subscribers will be able to stream Toy Story 5 in 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos starting at midnight PT on September 23.

Jake McDorman will reprise his role as beach club heartthrob Raymond as a series regular, while Emma Roberts is set to executive produce and guest star as her original character, Claire Brown.

A New Generation Takes the Plunge

The upcoming series picks up 20 years after the events of the original movie, centering on teenager Coral (Richardson) as she navigates adolescence, identity, and the mysteries of her lineage:

• The Logline: After moving to a seaside town, thoughtful and artistic teen Coral begins unraveling the truth behind her mother Aquamarine’s disappearance. In doing so, Coral awakens her own latent mermaid powers just as secrets beneath the ocean threaten to surface.
• Raymond’s New Chapter: Raymond (McDorman) now serves as a single father struggling to navigate Coral’s growing independence while still grieving the loss of his true love, Aquamarine.
• Claire’s Return: Claire Brown (Roberts) returns to her hometown in a guest-starring capacity to help support Raymond and keep the magical secret intact.

Behind-the-Camera Reunion

Disney has assembled a creative team deeply connected to both the original film and modern coming-of-age television:

The Bold Type creator Sarah Watson wrote the pilot and serves as executive producer.

Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum, who directed the 2006 theatrical film, is back in the director’s chair for the pilot and serves as an executive producer.

Original Aquamarine producer Susan Cartsonis executive produces alongside Emma Roberts.

Joining Richardson and McDorman as new series regulars are young stars Briella Guiza, Theodore Dalton, and Annika Reese.

Production on the pilot is scheduled to begin later this fall, bringing the beloved Y2K fantasy into a brand-new era for Disney+.

The Character Saved by On-Screen Chemistry

Jesse Pinkman was originally slated to be killed off near the end of Breaking Bad’s first season. However, series creator Vince Gilligan scrapped the plan after seeing Paul’s undeniable screen presence and instant chemistry with co-star Bryan Cranston. That pivot fundamentally altered the show’s trajectory, turning Jesse into the moral compass of the series and earning Paul three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

Catchphrases and Pop-Culture Immortality

Few characters in television history have left as permanent a mark on pop culture. From enthusiastic shouts of “Yeah, science!” to turning a simple profane insult into an affectionate fan greeting, Paul gave Jesse a distinct vocabulary that fans still shout to him on the street over a decade later. Beyond the catchphrases, it was Paul’s ability to anchor the show’s dark story arc with heart-wrenching vulnerability that made Jesse a fan favorite.

Reprising the Legend Across Decades

Paul has treated his career-defining character with immense respect, stepping back into Jesse’s shoes for major universe expansions:

• El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie (2019): Paul carried the feature-length Netflix epilogue, providing Jesse with a harrowing, earned path toward freedom and closure.
• Better Call Saul (2022): Paul returned for guest appearances in the acclaimed prequel series’ final season, officially bookending his time in the franchise alongside Cranston.

A Real-World Brotherhood with Bryan Cranston

The partnership forged in the desert turned into a lifelong real-world family bond. Cranston is the godfather to Paul’s son, and the duo co-founded their successful artisanal mezcal brand, Dos Hombres. They frequently tour together for brand appearances, happily signing Breaking Bad memorabilia for crowds of devoted fans.

Embracing the Role of a Lifetime

While Paul has continued to display impressive versatility in projects like BoJack Horseman (as Todd Chavez), HBO’s Westworld, and Truth Be Told, he has never tried to distance himself from his breakout success. As he celebrates his 47th birthday, Aaron Paul stands as a rare actor who openly cherishes the iconic character that changed his life forever.

How ‘Six’ Became a Broadway Hit

Created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, “Six” reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as performers competing in a pop concert. Rather than treating the queens as supporting figures in Henry’s story, the musical gives each woman her own voice and perspective before ultimately bringing them together as a group.

The show’s journey began at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017, where it was developed by students from Cambridge University. Its early success led to productions in London’s West End and a North American production before the musical reached Broadway.

“Six” began Broadway previews in February 2020, but its planned opening was interrupted by the COVID-19 shutdown that closed theaters across New York. The production eventually resumed previews in September 2021 and officially opened at the Lena Horne Theatre on October 3 of that year.

The musical has since expanded far beyond its original Broadway production, with touring and international productions in countries including South Korea, Japan, Spain and China. A filmed stage production featuring the original West End cast also reached cinemas in the UK and Ireland in 2025 before its U.S. theatrical release in August 2026.

The Broadway production’s closing date arrives shortly after “Six” marked its 2,000th performance on August 17. That milestone made it the longest-running production in the history of the Lena Horne Theatre and placed it among Broadway’s longest-running shows overall.

‘Endgame’ Will Connect Directly to ‘Doomsday’

The upcoming “Avengers: Endgame Encore” will bring the 2019 blockbuster back to theaters with additional material ahead of “Avengers: Doomsday.” For Joe Russo, the re-release is more than an opportunity to revisit one of Marvel’s biggest hits.

The director revealed that the added material is designed to bridge the two titles. “It’s going to connect the story of the two movies,” Russo said, adding that there is “a natural progression from Endgame into Doomsday.”

That connection appears to be significant enough that Russo believes fans should see the earlier film again before the new one. “I think it’s required viewing for following the story in Doomsday,” he said.

The theatrical return will give audiences another chance to experience “Endgame” on the big screen before “Doomsday” arrives on December 18. The upcoming picture will bring together characters from multiple corners of the MCU, including the Avengers, the Fantastic Four and the X-Men.

Anthony Russo also teased that the connection between the two films could lead audiences somewhere they are not expecting. “If you saw Endgame when it was originally released, you couldn’t see this coming.”

“Avengers: Endgame Encore” is scheduled to return to cinemas globally on September 25, giving Marvel fans a chance to revisit the movie before the next Avengers installment.

A Powerhouse Creative Team

The stage adaptation brings together a roster of acclaimed theater and music veterans to bring the whimsical world to life:

• Music and Lyrics: Co-created by singer-songwriter Gary Clark (former frontman of Danny Wilson and composer for the stage and film adaptations of Sing Street), who wrote the score alongside Thompson’s lyrics.
• Direction: Led by Katy Rudd, renowned for her staging of The Ocean at the End of the Lane and Ballet Shoes.
• Set and Costume Design: Helmed by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Rob Howell (Matilda the Musical).
• Choreography: Crafted by World Choreography Award winner Ellen Kane (Matilda the Musical).
• Production: Presented by Working Title Films and Universal Theatrical Group.

Shattering Chaos with Unorthodox Magic

Based on Thompson’s films and Christianna Brand’s classic Nurse Matilda books, the musical centers on the chaotic household of widower Mr. Brown and his seven unruly children, who have successfully driven away every previous nanny. When Nanny McPhee mysteriously arrives on their doorstep, her unorthodox discipline, knobbly stick, and quiet magic slowly transform the family.

In a statement announcing the production, Thompson reflected on bringing the character to a live audience:

“I’ve lived with Nanny McPhee for so long that to see her finally tread the boards is supremely exciting. Theatre feels like her natural home — magic, music, mischief and a good dollop of danger can all happen right in front of you. Working with Gary Clark to create the musical heart that beats through the story has been an unforgettable journey of a lifetime.”

What Lies Ahead for the West End Run

While early developmental workshops in London previously featured stars such as Olivia Colman, Lily James, and Rory Kinnear, official casting for the 2027 premiere remains unannounced. Details regarding the exact West End theater venue and performance dates will be revealed in the coming months.

From ‘Kally’s Mashup’ to ‘The Last Sunrise’: Who is Maia Reficco?

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, on July 14, 2000, Reficco spent most of her childhood in Buenos Aires after moving to Argentina with her family when she was four. Music was an important part of her upbringing. She learned to play several instruments, including guitar, piano, saxophone and ukulele, and trained in singing from an early age. She also practiced acrobatics for 11 years.

Her professional breakthrough came with “Kally’s Mashup,” the Nickelodeon Latin America series in which she played Kally Ponce. Reficco landed the role after her vocal covers on Instagram caught the attention of the production team. For her audition, she performed Ariana Grande’s “Dangerous Woman,” eventually becoming the face of the series and recording music for its soundtrack.

Music remained an important part of her career as she moved beyond the Nickelodeon project. Reficco performed at events including the Kids’ Choice Awards Argentina and Mexico, while also developing material as a solo artist. Her early musical work was expected to explore pop and R&B, reflecting the vocal training she had pursued both in Argentina and the United States.

Reficco later expanded her screen career with roles aimed at an older audience. In 2022, she appeared in Netflix’s “Do Revenge” and joined the cast of HBO Max’s “Pretty Little Liars,” where she played Noa Olivar. The role placed her within one of television’s most recognizable teen franchises and marked another step away from the musical series that first introduced her to audiences.

Her work has also extended to the stage. In 2024, Reficco made her Broadway debut in “Hadestown,” taking on the role of Eurydice opposite Jordan Fisher. Now, with “The Last Sunrise” available on Amazon Prime Video, she is stepping into another leading role.

9 to 5 (1980)

Making her feature film acting debut alongside Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, Parton delivered an unforgettable performance as Doralee Rhodes, a secretary who conspires with her co-workers to overthrow their “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot” of a boss. Parton stole every scene, earning two Golden Globe nominations and proving her natural movie-star magnetism.

Steel Magnolias (1989)

In Herbert Ross’s beloved comedy-drama, Parton played Truvy Jones, the wise-cracking, big-hearted owner of a beauty salon in small-town Louisiana. Acting alongside an all-star cast including Julia Roberts, Sally Field, and Shirley MacLaine, Parton provided both comedic relief and deep emotional grounding in one of the most quoted films of the 1980s.

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (1982)

Starring opposite Burt Reynolds, Parton played Mona Stangley, a brothel proprietor fighting to keep her business open amidst political hypocrisy. The musical comedy allowed Parton to flex her comedic chops, showcase high-energy dance routines, and deliver a stunning rendition of “I Will Always Love You.”

Straight Talk (1992)

In this charming romantic comedy, Parton starred as Shirley Cross, a small-town dance instructor who moves to Chicago and accidentally lands a job as a radio talk-show host. Her character’s no-nonsense, down-home advice turns her into an overnight sensation, pairing her opposite James Woods.

Hannah Montana – “Good Golly, Miss Dolly” and Guest Arc (2006–2010)

Introducing her wit to a new generation, Parton made memorable guest appearances on Disney’s Hannah Montana as “Aunt Dolly.” Playing the godmother to her real-life goddaughter Miley Cyrus, Parton brought infectious humor, sparkly outfits, and genuine family chemistry to the hit children’s series.

Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square (2020)

This Netflix original holiday musical film starred Parton as a literal angel who visits a small town to soften the heart of a cold-hearted woman (Christine Baranski). Featuring 14 original songs written by Parton, the heartwarming production won two Primetime Emmy Awards.

Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors (2015)

Serving as executive producer and narrator, Parton brought her beloved 1971 song to life in this highly rated NBC television movie. Depicting her humble upbringing in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains, the biographical drama drew over 13 million viewers during its initial broadcast.

The Orville – “Lasting Impressions” (2022)

In a delightful surprise sci-fi cameo, Parton guest-starred as a holographic simulation of herself in Seth MacFarlane’s The Orville. Sitting in a simulation of her Dollywood cabin, she shared a sweet, inspiring conversation about human nature and optimism with the show’s characters.

Princess Diana Was a Huge Fan of Tim Curry’s ‘Rocky Horror’ Performance

One of Curry’s most unexpected celebrity encounters involved Princess Diana, who had a surprising connection to the actor’s most famous role. According to IMDb trivia, Curry discussed the meeting during a 2005 appearance on NPR’s Fresh Air, recalling that he met Diana and then-Prince Charles backstage after a performance of “Love for Love.“

Diana recognized Curry and brought up “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” the 1975 movie in which he played Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Curry was apparently surprised that she had seen the hit and told her that he did not think she had watched it. Diana’s response made clear that she was very familiar with the cult musical, telling him, “Thank you for completing my education.”

Curry’s performance as Frank-N-Furter had become inseparable from the enduring popularity of “Rocky Horror,” which began as a stage production in 1973 before becoming a film two years later. Curry played the character onstage in London, Los Angeles and New York before reprising the role for the movie.

By then, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” had grown into a cultural phenomenon that extended far beyond its original theatrical run. Curry himself later described the movie as a kind of rite of passage, reflecting its role in allowing audiences to experiment with identity and self-expression. He eventually returned to the franchise in the 2016 television remake, this time playing the Criminologist rather than Frank-N-Furter.

The Princess Diana anecdote remains one of the more unusual stories attached to Curry’s career, particularly because it connects one of Britain’s most famous public figures with a film that became a landmark of counterculture. For Curry, however, it was just one chapter in a career that moved effortlessly between cult cinema, prestige theater, mainstream Hollywood and voice acting. He earned three Tony Award nominations and became a familiar presence in projects ranging from “Legend” and “Home Alone 2” to “Star Wars: The Clone Wars.”

To celebrate her birthday, here is a countdown of her 10 most outstanding performances across film and television.

Akeelah Anderson – Akeelah and the Bee (2006)

At just 12 years old, Palmer delivered one of the most memorable child performances of the 2000s. Playing an eleven-year-old spelling prodigy from South Los Angeles navigating the path to the National Spelling Bee alongside Laurence Fishburne and Angela Bassett, Palmer’s raw emotional vulnerability and intellect earned her widespread critical acclaim and solidified her star status.

Emerald “Em” Haywood – Nope (2022)

In Jordan Peele’s sci-fi horror thriller, Palmer delivered a masterclass in movie-star charisma. As the energetic, hustling sibling trying to capture footage of an elusive alien entity to save her family’s Hollywood horse ranch, her electrifying performance earned her the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actress.

True Jackson – True Jackson, VP (2008–2011)

Anchor of Nickelodeon’s hit teen sitcom, Palmer starred as a 15-year-old high school student unexpectedly hired as the vice president of a major fashion house’s youth apparel line. Her comedic timing and infectious energy made the show a global success and established her as one of the highest-paid child television stars of her era.

Mercedes – Hustlers (2019)

Joining an all-star ensemble featuring Jennifer Lopez and Constance Wu, Palmer shone in Lorene Scafaria’s critically acclaimed crime comedy-drama. Playing Mercedes, a savvy stripper involved in a high-stakes scheme targeting Wall Street clients, Palmer brought sharp humor and charm to every scene.

Zayday Williams – Scream Queens (2015–2016)

In Ryan Murphy’s horror-comedy series, Palmer starred as Zayday Williams, a brilliant and no-nonsense sorority pledge who refuses to fall victim to a mysterious serial killer. Her quick-witted dialogue and fearless screen presence made her an instant fan favorite across both seasons.

Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas – CrazyS**yCool: The TLC Story (2013)

Stepping into the shoes of R&B royalty, Palmer portrayed Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas in VH1’s biographical film chronicling the rise of the legendary girl group TLC. Palmer captured Chilli’s distinct dance moves, vocal cadences, and emotional journey, helping the television movie draw over 4.5 million viewers during its premiere.

Dreux – One of Them Days (2025)

Starring alongside musician SZA in this hit buddy comedy, Palmer served as both lead actor and executive producer. Playing Dreux, a young woman navigating a hilarious, frantic race against time to save her apartment, Palmer showcased her ability to lead a modern theatrical comedy with effortless physical humor and heart.

Marty Maraschino – Grease: Live! (2016)

Demonstrating her vocal range on live television, Palmer played Pink Lady Marty Maraschino in Fox’s Emmy-winning musical broadcast. Her soulful rendition of “Freddy, My Love” became one of the stand-out highlights of the entire production, earning unanimous praise from theater critics.

Mary Thomas – Jump In! (2007)

A nostalgia favorite for an entire generation, Palmer starred opposite Corbin Bleu in this Disney Channel Original Movie about competitive Double Dutch. Playing the determined team captain Mary, Palmer showcased her athleticism, singing ability, and magnetic lead appeal.

Rochelle Hillhurst – Human Resources & Big Mouth (2021–2025)

Lending her distinct voice to Netflix’s acclaimed animated universe, Palmer voiced Rochelle, a Lovebug-turned-Hate-Worm navigating the complex emotional lives of humans. Her voice work earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance, adding another major accolade to her expanding resume.

The ’90s Box Office Phenomenon

In 1990, a 10-year-old Culkin exploded into global pop-culture history as Kevin McCallister in John Hughes’s Christmas comedy Home Alone. Demonstrating rare comedic timing and boundary-pushing charm, he led the film to nearly $480 million worldwide, following up with box-office hits like My Girl (1991), Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), The Good Son (1993), and Richie Rich (1994).

By age 12, Culkin was the highest-paid child actor in history. However, intense tabloid fixation, exhausting production schedules, and a highly publicized legal emancipation battle with his parents led him to make a radical choice in 1994: he retired from mainstream acting at age 14 to seek a normal adolescence.

Stepping Away and Finding His Own Voice

Throughout his twenties and thirties, Culkin deliberately avoided the typical Hollywood playbook:

• Indie Projects: Rather than pursuing studio blockbusters, he took selective roles in indie projects like Party Monster (2003) and Saved! (2004).
• Comedy & Satire: He launched the pop-culture brand and podcast Bunny Ears in 2017, using self-deprecating humor to poke fun at celebrity culture and his own child-star legacy.
• Personal Peace: Settling into a low-key lifestyle, Culkin built a grounded personal life alongside partner Brenda Song, with whom he shares two young children.

The Modern Screen Renaissance

Culkin’s official Hollywood return gained major momentum in 2021 when creator Ryan Murphy cast him in American Horror Story: Double Feature. Playing Mickey, a tragic, drug-addicted writer in Provincetown, Culkin delivered a raw, critically acclaimed performance that proved his talent as a dramatic character actor.

He followed that success with memorable guest turns on HBO’s The Righteous Gemstones, recurring roles in high-profile series like Fallout, and major voice work in animated blockbusters.

Hollywood Walk of Fame Honor

The culmination of his career comeback arrived in December 2023, when Culkin was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Joined by his Home Alone on-screen mother Catherine O’Hara, the emotional reunion made headlines worldwide. O’Hara praised his enduring talent, noting: “Thank you for including me, your fake mom who left you home alone not once, but twice… I’m so proud of you.”

As Culkin celebrates his 46th birthday, he stands as a rare example of a child star who successfully reclaimed his narrative, returning to the industry entirely on his own terms.

Combining classical leading-man charisma with the fearless versatility of a character actor, Pine has built a filmography defined by sharp comedic timing, grounded intensity, and undeniable screen presence. Here is why the actor stands out as one of the definitive talents of his generation.

The Youngest Captain to Ever Command ‘Star Trek’

When director J.J. Abrams set out to reboot Star Trek for a new era in 2007, filling the shoes of William Shatner’s Captain James T. Kirk was widely considered one of the most daunting recasting challenges in modern sci-fi history.

Landing the role at just 27 years old, Pine became the youngest actor in history to play Captain Kirk and lead a Star Trek feature film. Rather than falling into a cheap impression of Shatner, Pine brought a magnetic mix of youthful arrogance, tactical intellect, and deep emotional sincerity. He anchored the $385 million blockbuster, instantly converting skeptics and establishing himself as a marquee star capable of carrying a massive global franchise on his shoulders.

“Hands Down, My Favorite”: High Praise from Quentin Tarantino

Pine’s talent hasn’t just won over moviegoers—it earned him the ultimate seal of approval from cinema auteur Quentin Tarantino.

During an appearance on The Ringer’s Rewatchables podcast, Tarantino single-out Pine as the standout performer among his peers:

“I am a huge Chris Pine fan,” Tarantino declared. “To me, of the actors of his age, he’s hands down my favorite—of that group, of that era, of those guys. He completely holds his own against Denzel [Washington in Tony Scott’s Unstoppable]. That’s what he needed to make himself a movie star.”

Tarantino praised Pine’s ability to soak up lighting, color, and costume with movie-star magnetism, highlighting how rare it is for a young actor to go toe-to-toe with an acting titan like Denzel Washington and match his intensity frame-for-frame.

Unmatched Range Across Genres

What elevates Pine above typical Hollywood leads is his refusal to stay in a comfortable box:

• Neo-Western Drama: In 2016’s Hell or High Water, Pine turned in a quietly devastating, weary performance as Toby Howard, helping propel the film to four Academy Award nominations (including Best Picture).
• Musical Comedy: He stole scenes in Rob Marshall’s Into the Woods (2014) as Cinderella’s melodramatic Prince, showcasing a impressive singing voice and a self-deprecating flair for satire.
• Blockbuster Heart: As Steve Trevor in Wonder Woman (2017), he subverted the traditional superhero love-interest trope with genuine humor, charm, and noble selflessness.
• Indie Exploration: Whether directing his noir-comedy debut Poolman (2023) or leaning into villainy in Don’t Worry Darling (2022), Pine consistently prioritizes compelling material over safe blockbuster paydays.

As he steps into his 46th year, Chris Pine continues to prove that true movie stardom isn’t just about headline franchises—it’s about the relentless pursuit of craft, screen presence, and undeniable talent.

Miley Cyrus remembers Dolly Parton as her “Aunt Dolly”

“The feeling of losing my Aunt Dolly is beyond what feels right to share,” Cyrus wrote. “Our most sacred moments were private and they’ll stay there behind the stage, beneath the glamour & between our hearts.”

Their connection began before Cyrus was born, after Parton became close with Billy Ray Cyrus in the early 1990s and agreed to become Miley’s godmother. “I have an angel by my side. I always have,” Cyrus stated in her tribute, reflecting on the place Parton held in her life.

Parton’s presence became part of Cyrus’ childhood and career, particularly through “Hannah Montana,” where she appeared as Aunt Dolly. Their musical relationship continued for years, including performances of “Jolene” and collaborations on Cyrus’ Younger Now and Parton’s A Holly Dolly Christmas. “One of our last conversations was about music and metamorphosis,” Cyrus revealed.

Cyrus also shared what she believes Parton would have wanted her to do with the pain of losing her. “What I KNOW is Dolly would want me to feel it, write a song about it, and then continue on and be strong.” She added, “I will always love her and want to make her proud.”

The singer closed by widening the tribute beyond their own relationship. “My heart breaks for the world, her family and friends who will miss her deeply,” Cyrus wrote. “We’re in this loss together and we will see her in all of the most beautiful things.”

1. Stiles Stilinski – Teen Wolf (2011–2017)

The role that started it all. As Scott McCall’s sarcastic, fiercely loyal best friend, O’Brien transformed what could have been a standard sidekick into the undisputed heart of the series. His chilling performance during Season 3’s “Void Stiles” possession arc showcased a dramatic range that instantly caught Hollywood’s attention.

2. Thomas – The Maze Runner Trilogy (2014–2018)

Taking the helm of a massive dystopian YA franchise, O’Brien starred as Thomas, a young man fighting to navigate lethal labyrinths and post-apocalyptic trials. His grounded vulnerability, physical commitment, and leadership chemistry anchored all three films to over $940 million in global box-office success.

3. Joel Dawson – Love and Monsters (2020)

In this post-apocalyptic creature feature, O’Brien played Joel, a lovelorn survivor embarking on a dangerous 85-mile journey to reconnect with his high school girlfriend. Partnered with a fan-favorite dog named Boy, O’Brien brought charm, physical comedy, and genuine emotional resonance to the Oscar-nominated sleeper hit.

4. “Him” – Taylor Swift’s All Too Well: The Short Film (2021)

Opposite Sadie Sink, O’Brien delivered a captivating, intense performance in Taylor Swift’s 10-minute cinematic short film. Portraying a charismatic yet dismissive partner, O’Brien captured the complexities of an asymmetric relationship, driving the project to instant pop-culture phenomenon status.

5. Colin – Not Okay (2022)

Exposing his razor-sharp comedic instincts, O’Brien took on a hilarious supporting turn as Colin, a bleached-blonde, vape-obsessed clout chaser. Leaning fully into the absurdity of the character, O’Brien stole every scene in the satire on influencer culture.

6. Dan Aykroyd – Saturday Night (2024)

Stepping into the shoes of a comedy icon, O’Brien portrayed original Saturday Night Live cast member Dan Aykroyd in Jason Reitman’s chaotic ensemble biopic. Capturing Aykroyd’s kinetic energy and distinctive cadence during the frantic 90 minutes leading up to SNL’s very first 1975 broadcast, O’Brien earned high praise from critics.

7. Paris Lang – Caddo Lake (2024)

In the M. Night Shyamalan–produced atmospheric mystery thriller, O’Brien delivered a grounded, emotional performance as Paris, a man unraveling family secrets tied to a missing girl and an elusive lake anomaly. The performance earned him a Gotham TV Award nomination, cementing his continuing evolution into complex dramatic storytelling.

With a career spanning over six decades, 26 Billboard Hot Country #1 hits, and a songwriting catalog exceeding 3,000 tracks, Parton was an incomparable storyteller whose voice bridged genres and generations. 

To honor her extraordinary life, here are 10 essential songs that capture the magic, humor, and heart of her musical legacy.

1. “Coat of Many Colors” (1971)

Parton frequently cited this autobiographical ballad as her personal favorite among all the songs she wrote. Recounting her childhood in the Great Smoky Mountains—where her mother stitched together a coat from rags—the track turned family poverty into a tender lesson on love and spiritual wealth.

2. “Jolene” (1973)

Driven by a fast, frantic guitar riff and desperate vocal delivery, “Jolene” remains one of the most covered and recognizable songs in pop music history. Inspired by a flirtatious bank teller who paid extra attention to her husband Carl, Parton turned a moment of personal insecurity into an immortal country masterpiece.

3. “I Will Always Love You” (1973)

Written as a professional farewell to her long-time mentor and duet partner Porter Wagoner, this classic hit #1 on the country charts in two separate decades for Parton before Whitney Houston transformed it into a global pop record. It stands as one of the most lucrative and emotionally resonance ballads ever penned.

4. “Here You Come Again” (1977)

Marking her official pop crossover moment, this breezy, disco-tinged country track proved that Parton could dominate mainstream radio without sacrificing her signature twang. Written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, it earned Parton her first Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance.

5. “9 to 5” (1980)

Written for her feature film debut, this working-class anthem captured the frustration of everyday labor with infectious optimism. Parton famously created the song’s rhythmic beat on set by clacking her acrylic fingernails together like a typewriter, yielding an Oscar nomination and an indelible pop culture staple.

6. “Islands in the Stream” (with Kenny Rogers, 1983)

Penned by the Bee Gees, this iconic duet paired Parton with fellow country titan Kenny Rogers. Their breezy vocal chemistry propelled the track to the top of both the Billboard Hot 100 and Country charts, cementing its status as one of the greatest duets of all time.

7. “Wildflowers” (with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt, 1987)

A centerpiece of the acclaimed Trio album, “Wildflowers” showcased Parton’s roots in traditional mountain folk harmonies. Singing alongside Harris and Ronstadt, Parton celebrated free-spirited independence and unyielding resilience.

8. “Two Doors Down” (1977)

A celebratory anthem about curing heartbreak by joining the party next door, this self-penned hit demonstrated Parton’s uncanny ability to turn sorrow into an uplifting, feel-good singalong.

9. “Little Sparrow” (2001)

From her acoustic and bluegrass revival era in the early 2000s, the title track of Little Sparrow features haunting, acapella-style vocals and dark, traditional storytelling that highlighted the depth and technical mastery of her singing voice.

10. “Travelin’ Thru” (2005)

Written for the film Transamerica, this gospel-infused track earned Parton an Academy Award nomination. The song encapsulates her lifelong philosophy of love, acceptance, and open-hearted empathy for all people walking their own paths.

Captain James T. Kirk – Star Trek Franchise (2009–2016)

Stepping into the iconic boots originally worn by William Shatner was no easy feat, but Pine made the Starfleet captain entirely his own in J.J. Abrams’ reboot trilogy. Balancing cocky bravado with genuine tactical intelligence and emotional heart, Pine’s performance anchored the blockbusters and turned him into a global superstar.

Toby Howard – Hell or High Water (2016)

In Taylor Sheridan’s Oscar-nominated neo-Western heist drama, Pine delivered the most critically revered performance of his career. Playing a quiet, desperate Texas father robbing banks alongside his reckless brother (Ben Foster) to save his family’s ranch, Pine stripped away his usual blockbuster swagger for a masterclass in stoic, weary nuance.

Steve Trevor – Wonder Woman (2017) & Wonder Woman 1984 (2020)

As WWI pilot Steve Trevor, Pine provided the ultimate romantic counterweight to Gal Gadot’s Diana Prince. Rather than playing a standard damsel-in-distress or alpha male hero, Pine brought earnest nobility, sharp comedic timing, and effortless romantic chemistry to the DC Extended Universe.

Edgin Darvis – Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023)

Pine’s knack for self-deprecating humor and ensemble leadership shone brightly as Edgin, a lute-playing bard attempting a high-stakes heist. He navigated the fantasy spectacle with infectious charm, leading a ragtag band of misfits through one of the most delightful action-comedies in recent years.

Cinderella’s Prince – Into the Woods (2014)

Showcasing his impressive musical chops and knack for campy satire, Pine stole the show in Rob Marshall’s Stephen Sondheim adaptation. His melodramatic rendition of “Agony” alongside Billy Magnussen remains one of the film’s undisputed comedic highlights.

Lord Nicholas Devereaux – The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)

Marking his major feature film debut, a 24-year-old Pine played the swoon-worthy rival-turned-love-interest to Anne Hathaway’s Princess Mia. His disarming smile and natural screen presence instantly established him as a quintessential Y2K romantic lead.

Frank – Don’t Worry Darling (2022)

In Olivia Wilde’s psychological thriller, Pine leaned into sinister charisma as Frank, the enigmatic and controlling founder of the 1950s experimental Victory Project. His terrifyingly smooth, manipulative presence created some of the film’s most tense, memorable moments.

How ‘Home Alone’ Changed Macaulay Culkin’s Career

Released in 1990, “Home Alone” was made for approximately $18 million and became a major worldwide box-office success, earning more than $476 million globally. Culkin, who played eight-year-old Kevin McCallister, quickly became an international star and a recognizable presence well beyond the film itself. The role also earned him a Golden Globe nomination, further establishing his standing among the era’s leading young performers.

The success of “Home Alone” had a direct effect on Culkin’s earning power. His next major title was “My Girl,” a coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Howard Zieff and written by Laurice Elehwany. Culkin played Thomas J. Sennett alongside Anna Chlumsky, who made her major motion-picture debut as Vada Sultenfuss. The hit was released by Columbia Pictures on November 27, 1991, and ultimately grossed more than $121 million worldwide.

Culkin’s reported $1 million salary for “My Girl” represented an extraordinary figure for a child performer, particularly because his role was not the film’s sole lead. The deal reflected the commercial value he had acquired so quickly after “Home Alone.” Rather than simply being a young actor attached to a successful production, Culkin had become a major selling point in his own right.

“My Girl” also demonstrated that Culkin’s appeal could extend beyond the broad family comedy that had made him famous. The movie centered on Vada, an 11-year-old girl growing up in a funeral home, and explored childhood friendship, family changes and grief. Culkin’s Thomas J. served as Vada’s closest friend.

The financial milestone was followed by an even larger paycheck for Culkin when he returned as Kevin in “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” in 1992. The biographical source lists his salary for the sequel at approximately $4.5 million, illustrating just how quickly his market value had increased during the early 1990s. By then, Culkin had moved from being a successful child performer to one of the most highly compensated young stars in Hollywood.

The ‘Home Alone’ Moment Macaulay Culkin Still Carries With Him

The injury happened while Culkin and Joe Pesci were rehearsing one of Harry’s confrontations with Kevin. Pesci’s character threatens to bite Kevin’s fingers off one by one, and during the rehearsal, the actor bit Culkin’s finger. The incident left Culkin with a small, permanent scar.

Culkin was only nine years old when the accident happened. Years later, he recalled the moment and described seeing a look of genuine panic on Pesci’s face immediately after the bite, thathad not been planned as part of the scene.

The sequence was part of the film’s many physical confrontations between Kevin and the two burglars. Harry and Marv spend much of the movie falling victim to Kevin’s elaborate traps, with the production relying on stunt performers for some of the more dangerous gags.

The incident also became one of the more unusual behind-the-scenes stories attached to the Christmas classic. Culkin’s finger injury never appears as part of Kevin’s story, but the scar has remained with the actor as a permanent connection to one of his most famous roles.

Billy Ray Cyrus Recalls His Friendship With Dolly Parton

“I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start,” Cyrus wrote, before remembering just how early Parton became part of his life. “Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms.”

Cyrus then returned to 1992, when he was dealing with tabloid reports claiming he was having an affair with Parton. “I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her,” he wrote. Parton’s reaction was characteristically playful. “In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked and said, ‘Honey, this trash sells records!’”

Their relationship went far beyond that brief tabloid episode. After touring with Cyrus during his early success, Parton became the godmother of his daughter Miley Cyrus, later appearing alongside the family during the “Hannah Montana” years. Looking back on those decades, Cyrus described Parton as someone who remained a constant presence in his life.

The singer also shared that his most recent exchange with Parton had been especially meaningful. “Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart,” Cyrus wrote. He then returned that sentiment directly, adding, “I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will.”

Cyrus’s tribute now joins the many remembrances of a country music icon whose connection to his family lasted for more than three decades.

How They Met: Three Pots of Coffee and a Broken Idol Image

The legendary partnership began in the winter of 1989. At the time, a 26-year-old Johnny Depp was feeling trapped and creatively suffocated by his starring role on the hit television series 21 Jump Street. Desperate to break free from his studio-mandated “teen heartthrob” image, Depp read Caroline Thompson’s script for Edward Scissorhands and wept, feeling an immediate, profound connection to the lonely outsider with blades for fingers.

Convinced that Hollywood heavyweights like Tom Cruise or Robert Downey Jr. would land the role, Depp reluctantly agreed to a meeting arranged by his agent. The duo met at the coffee shop inside the Bel Age Hotel in Los Angeles.

Sitting behind a row of potted plants, the nervous actor and the eccentric director ended up drinking three to four pots of coffee together. Despite stumbling through unfinished sentences, both men realized they spoke the exact same creative language. Burton saw past Depp’s heartthrob exterior to recognize an actor capable of expressing profound soulfulness without words, while Depp found a visionary director he could trust implicitly.

An Unspoken Creative Kinship

What began as a nervous coffee shop meeting evolved into an enduring friendship and artistic brotherhood. Burton frequently described Depp as his alter ego on set, while Depp famously declared that he would sign on to any Burton project without even reading the script first. Their shared love for silent film comedy, classic monster movies, and tragic misfits allowed them to create characters that resonated globally.

Their 8 Iconic Feature Collaborations

1. Edward Scissorhands (1990)

The film that launched their partnership. Depp’s near-silent, heart-rending turn as an incomplete artificial man with scissor blades for hands gave Burton his ultimate artistic muse.

2. Ed Wood (1994)

In this black-and-white biographical masterpiece, Depp starred as Edward D. Wood Jr., famously dubbed the worst film director of all time. Burton and Depp approached the Hollywood outcast with empathetic warmth, creating one of their most critically revered works.

3. Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Burton’s atmospheric homage to Hammer Horror reimagined Ichabod Crane as an squeamish, eccentric constable relying on modern forensics. Depp’s dry comedic timing balanced Burton’s head-rolling gothic visuals.

4. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

Tackling Roald Dahl’s beloved story, Burton handed Depp the keys to Willy Wonka. Depp’s bizarre, reclusive, and squeaky-voiced interpretation delivered a stark contrast to Gene Wilder’s 1971 role, driving the film to massive box-office success.

5. Corpse Bride (2005)

That same year, Depp voiced the anxious Victor Van Dort in Burton’s stop-motion animated feature, anchoring the film’s delicate melancholic romance opposite Helena Bonham Carter.

6. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

In their most blood-drenched collaboration, Depp took on Stephen Sondheim’s iconic antihero, earning a Best Actor Oscar nomination for his brooding, tragic performance as the vengeful London barber.

7. Alice in Wonderland (2010)

Burton’s eye-popping live-action/CGI hybrid saw Depp take on Tarrant Hightopp, the Mad Hatter. Depp’s colorful eccentricities helped propel the blockbuster past $1 billion globally—making it the highest-grossing film of Burton’s career.

8. Dark Shadows (2012)

Adapting the 1960s cult gothic soap opera, Depp played 18th-century vampire Barnabas Collins awakening in 1972, combining fish-out-of-water comedy with vintage gothic melodrama in their eighth feature collaboration.

Up until late summer 2013, the public still largely associated Cyrus with the squeaky-clean, blonde-wigged heroine of Hannah Montana. While her lead single “We Can’t Stop” signaled a shift toward a bolder, hip-hop-influenced era, it was August 25 that severed the cord entirely:

• The Single Drop: RCA Records officially released “Wrecking Ball” to digital platforms. Unlike the party-centric “We Can’t Stop,” “Wrecking Ball” was a raw, devastating pop ballad that put her thunderous vocal talent front and center.
• The VMA Shockwave: Hours later, Cyrus delivered her infamous VMA performance alongside Robin Thicke. Dressed in a nude latex bikini set, wielding a foam finger, and twerking across the Barclays Center stage, she set a then-record 306,000 tweets per minute and ignited a global media firestorm.

Shattered Expectations and Her First #1 Hit

While the VMA performance drew intense public scrutiny and shock, the release of “Wrecking Ball” proved that Cyrus’s metamorphosis was backed by undeniable musical firepower.

When the song’s iconic music video arrived two weeks later—featuring Cyrus crying in close-up before swinging nude on a literal demolition ball—it shattered VEVO 24-hour view records and propelled “Wrecking Ball” to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking the first multi-week top spot of her career. The stark juxtaposition between raw emotional vulnerability and shocking imagery forced the industry to view her no longer as a former child actor trying to shock, but as a formidable pop powerhouse.

A Career Forever Changed

Looking back, the release of this song was the day Cyrus claimed full agency over her image—accepting the chaos, controversy, and freedom that came with stepping out of Disney’s shadow.

Cyrus has since reflected on that wild Bangerz era as a necessary firestorm. The cultural noise surrounding “Wrecking Ball” and her VMA moment directly inspired her to launch the Happy Hippie Foundation in 2014, mobilizing her massive platform to fight homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth.

From the psychedelic experimentation of Miley Cyrus and Her Dead Petz and the country-rock roots of Plastic Hearts to her record-shattering, Grammy-winning Endless Summer Vacation (“Flowers”), the creative freedom Cyrus enjoys today was bought on that fateful August day when she swung a wrecking ball straight through her past.

‘Dolly’ Brought Together Music, Comedy and Major Guest Stars

Parton had already fronted a syndicated variety show called “Dolly” in 1976, but she left that program after one season following disagreements over its direction and the demands of production. When ABC developed the 1987 series, Parton was given substantially more control over the title’s creative direction. The format was built around the traditional variety-show model, an increasingly uncommon approach on American television at the time.

The guest list reflected the breadth of Parton’s appeal. The premiere featured Dudley Moore, Hulk Hogan, Paul Reubens as Pee-wee Herman, Oprah Winfrey and New York City Mayor Ed Koch. The second episode brought Burt Reynolds, Whoopi Goldberg and country group Alabama into the mix. Bruce Willis, Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt appeared in the third chapter.

The show was also designed to move between different styles of entertainment rather than rely exclusively on Parton’s music. Episodes included scripted comedy, audience questions, celebrity conversations, musical collaborations and segments that took Parton outside the studio.

The scale of the premiere demonstrated the level of interest surrounding Parton’s return to television. The opening episode drew 39.47 million viewers, a figure identified as the largest audience for a television series premiere at the time. The program initially performed strongly in the ratings, but its audience declined as the season progressed.

Parton subsequently adjusted the program, moving away from some of its more elaborate segments and toward a more intimate, country-oriented presentation. The changes did not reverse the ratings decline, however, and ABC ultimately canceled “Dolly” in May 1988, shortly after the final episode had aired. The show later received a home-video release in 2020, when selected episodes were included in “Dolly: The Ultimate Collection – Deluxe Edition.”

Lively and Reynolds first met in 2010 while co-starring in Green Lantern. Though both were in other relationships at the time, their friendship famously turned romantic a year later during an infamous double date where they were paired with other people. The instant spark proved undeniable, leading to their intimate South Carolina wedding in September 2012.

Mastering the Art of the Birthday Roast

While many celebrity couples rely on polished public relations statements, Lively and Reynolds have built a reputation on affectionate public trolling. Over their decade-plus of marriage, the couple’s social media birthday tributes have become internet legend:

• Cropped Out: Reynolds famously kicked off the tradition by posting a picture of the couple on Lively’s birthday with her face almost entirely cropped out.
• The Return Troll: Lively retaliated on Reynolds’ birthday by posting a photo of Ryan Gosling alongside her husband, captioning it simply: “Happy Birthday, baby.”
• Unfiltered Moments: The tradition regularly features candid, unflattering snapshots captured mid-blink, celebrating love with a healthy dose of self-deprecating humor.

Building a Household of Six

Amid their demanding production schedules and business ventures—including Lively’s Betty Buzz line and Reynolds’ Maximum Effort banner—the couple prioritizes a hands-on approach to parenthood. They share four children:

• James (born December 2014), named after Reynolds’ late father.
• Inez (born September 2016).
• Betty (born October 2019).
• Olin (born February 2023), their first son.

To maintain family stability, the couple adheres to a strict rule never to shoot movies at the same time, ensuring one parent is always present with the kids. Their children also share a famous bond with close family friend Taylor Swift—who famously incorporated the names James, Inez, and Betty into her 2020 album Folklore.

Grounded in Shared Humor

Whether walking the Met Gala red carpet or supporting each other’s box-office premieres, Lively and Reynolds have credited their lasting marriage to a foundation of deep friendship and shared humor.

As Lively turns 39, the couple remains proof that Hollywood romances can thrive on authenticity, mutual support, and a steady stream of jokes.

The 1990s Breakthrough: Cyrus took the music world by storm with his 1992 debut album Some Gave All, driven by the monster hit “Achy Breaky Heart”. The single spent five weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and popularized line-dancing in mainstream culture.

The ‘Hannah Montana’ Phenomenon: In 2006, Cyrus took on the role of Robbie Ray Stewart opposite his real-life daughter Miley Cyrus. The Disney Channel series became a global juggernaut, cementing the duo as television’s most famous father-daughter team.

The Record-Breaking Comeback: In 2019, Cyrus joined Lil Nas X on the “Old Town Road” remix, spending a historic 19 consecutive weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning two Grammy Awards.

The Fractured Family Era

Following Billy Ray and Tish Cyrus’s 2022 divorce after nearly 30 years of marriage, the Cyrus family experienced a deeply publicized split. Deep divisions formed among their six children, with Miley heavily siding with her mother during the aftermath.

The strain became undeniable at the 2024 Grammy Awards, where Miley collected her first-ever trophies for “Flowers” and explicitly omitted her father from her acceptance speech.

Finding Healing and Moving Forward

Time and mature perspective have gradually cooled the family tension. Miley shared that maturing into her thirties helped her reframe the split, choosing to love both of her parents as individual adults rather than holding onto childhood hurt.

Music ultimately helped bridge the gap between father and daughter. Reconnecting through personal songwriting and candid conversations, Billy Ray has repeatedly expressed how proud he is of Miley’s evolving legacy—frequently sharing nostalgic throwbacks from their Disney days. As Cyrus steps into his 65th year, his focus remains centered on peace, musical collaboration, and keeping family ties intact.

From YouTube Phenomenon to Theatrical Success

The road to the big screen began with Kane Parsons’ YouTube series, which launched in January 2022 under the Kane Pixels name. Inspired by the internet-born Backrooms mythos, the project quickly attracted attention and eventually led to several studios expressing interest in turning the concept into a feature. The picture was formally announced in 2023, with Parsons directing his first feature.

The finished movie centers on Clark, a furniture store owner and former architect played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, who discovers an impossible passage inside his store. The opening leads into a seemingly endless dimension of liminal spaces, where Clark becomes trapped. When he disappears, his therapist, Dr. Mary Kline, played by Renate Reinsve, eventually enters the strange environment herself. Mark Duplass, Finn Bennett and Lukita Maxwell also star.

‘Backrooms’ arrived in U.S. theaters through A24 on May 29 after premiering earlier that month in Santa Monica. Its theatrical performance quickly exceeded expectations. The title opened with $81.5 million domestically and $118 million worldwide, giving A24 its biggest opening weekend ever.

That momentum continued well beyond opening weekend. The film has now grossed $396.5 million worldwide, making it A24’s highest-grossing picture to date. It also ranks as the second-highest-grossing horror movie of 2026 and has established Parsons as the youngest filmmaker to have a No. 1 at the U.S. box office.

The HBO Max release comes after the hit’s digital debut on July 14, as well as the July release of an extended cut titled “Backrooms: Everything Must Go Edition” which added 15 minutes of footage.

To celebrate his birthday, here is the definitive ranking of his 10 greatest cinematic works.

Edward Scissorhands (1990)

A heartbreaking modern fairy tale, Edward Scissorhands remains Burton’s most personal cinematic achievement. Starring Johnny Depp as an incomplete artificial man with scissor blades for hands, the film juxtaposed pastel suburban conformity with dark gothic vulnerability, kicking off one of Hollywood’s most iconic director-actor creative partnerships.

Beetlejuice (1988)

Bursting with manic practical effects and macabre humor, Beetlejuice established Burton as a true box-office visionary. Michael Keaton’s chaotic turn as the titular “bio-exorcist” alongside Winona Ryder’s gothic teen Lydia Deetz permanently redefined spooky comedy for a generation.

Batman (1989)

Decades before comic book adaptations dominated multiplexes, Burton re-engineered the Dark Knight for the modern era. Trading 1960s television camp for a shadow-drenched Art Deco Gotham City, Burton paired Michael Keaton’s brooding hero with Jack Nicholson’s legendary Joker, revolutionizing the summer blockbuster landscape.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Though directed by Henry Selick, The Nightmare Before Christmas originated entirely from Burton’s story, poem, and iconic character designs. The stop-motion holiday masterpiece following Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town who accidentally discovers Christmas, stands as one of the most beloved and enduring pop-culture achievements bearing Burton’s name.

Ed Wood (1994)

Critically lauded as one of Burton’s finest artistic works, this black-and-white biopic lovingly honors Edward D. Wood Jr., famously dubbed the worst film director of all time. Powered by Johnny Depp and an Oscar-winning performance from Martin Landau as Bela Lugosi, the feature serves as an empathetic love letter to passionate Hollywood dreamers.

Batman Returns (1992)

Given full creative freedom after the success of the 1989 original, Burton pushed his comic-book universe into darker, more operatic gothic territory. Featuring Michelle Pfeiffer’s unforgettable performance as Catwoman alongside Danny DeVito’s tragic, monstrous Penguin, Batman Returns remains a quintessential display of unadulterated Burton aesthetics.

Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Drenched in fog, damp autumn leaves, and striking Hammer Horror homage, Burton’s atmospheric adaptation of Washington Irving’s classic tale showcased his absolute visual mastery. Starring Johnny Depp as an eccentric, cowardly Ichabod Crane investigating a series of decapitations, the film stands as peak gothic cinema.

Big Fish (2003)

Stepping away from dark shadows into colorful southern tall tales, Big Fish stands as Burton’s most emotionally poignant drama. Starring Ewan McGregor and Albert Finney, the fantasy exploration of a son coming to terms with his dying father’s mythical stories proved Burton could evoke deep, tear-jerking warmth alongside whimsical surrealism.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

Blending Stephen Sondheim’s musical genius with Grand Guignol gothic horror, Sweeney Todd allowed Burton to showcase his command of operatic spectacle. Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter anchored the Victorian tale of revenge and meat pies with bleak, striking beauty.

Pee-wee’s Big Adventure (1985)

Burton’s feature directorial debut introduced audiences to his signature eccentric worldview. Starring Paul Reubens as the child-like Pee-wee Herman on a nationwide search for a stolen bicycle, the cult hit marked the first historic collaboration between Burton and composer Danny Elfman.

How the “Fairy Godmother” Bond Began

The origin of their relationship traces back to 1992, when Billy Ray Cyrus served as the opening act for Parton’s tour during the height of his “Achy Breaky Heart” success. When tabloids fabricated a romance between the two touring partners, Billy Ray nervously apologized to the country queen in her dressing room. Parton simply winked and replied, “Honey, that sells records.”

From that day forward, the two became close friends. When Billy Ray and his wife Tish welcomed Miley later that year, Billy Ray asked Parton to be her godmother. Parton eagerly accepted, famously requesting to be called Miley’s “fairy godmother” instead.

From ‘Hannah Montana’ to Defending ‘Bangerz’

Parton introduced her charm to a new generation of youth when she joined the cast of Disney’s Hannah Montana as “Aunt Dolly,” making memorable guest appearances alongside Miley between 2006 and 2010.

When Cyrus eventually shed her Disney persona in 2013 with her controversial Bangerz era, public backlash was swift. Yet, while critics condemned the young star, Parton stood firmly in her corner:

“People didn’t want her to grow up—they got mad at her,” Parton reflected in an interview. “She felt she had to do something completely drastic to make her point. I did it my way, so why can’t she do it her way?”

Unforgettable Musical Duets

Their personal kinship naturally led to historic musical collaborations over the decades:

• “Rainbowland” (2017): A bright, country-pop duet on Cyrus’s Younger Now album celebrating love and acceptance.
• “Christmas Is” (2020): A holiday duet recorded for Parton’s A Holly Dolly Christmas album.
• New Year’s Eve Mashup (2022): A viral live duet combining “Wrecking Ball” and “I Will Always Love You” during NBC’s Miley’s New Year’s Eve Party.
• “Wrecking Ball” Duet (2023): Recorded together for Parton’s record-breaking rock album, Rockstar.

An Everlasting Legacy

Throughout her life, Cyrus frequently referred to Parton as “the best living angel on earth” and “a reminder of what is important: never let success change your heart.” In return, Parton proudly praised Cyrus as “one of the most gifted people I know.”

Though Dolly Parton’s passing marks the end of an incomparable era in American music, the wisdom, generosity, and boundary-pushing spirit she passed down to her goddaughter ensures her legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come.

‘Spider Man: Brand New Day’ Continues Its Record-Breaking Run

The achievement comes as the franchise takes Peter Parker in a more self-contained direction. Set four years after the events of “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” the film finds Parker living almost entirely through his identity as Spider-Man while struggling with the consequences of neglecting his life outside the suit.

That approach also brings the character closer to his traditional street-level roots. Rather than another world-ending threat, Parker is primarily focused on protecting New York City, while his increasingly demanding life as Spider-Man pushes his powers in new directions.

“Brand New Day” had already made history with its $932 million worldwide opening weekend, the second-biggest ever behind “Avengers: Endgame.” Its latest domestic milestone adds another record to an unusually strong theatrical run for the MCU’s current “Spider-Man” era.

The domestic record may not stand for long, however. “Avengers: Doomsday” is positioned to become the next major Marvel box office contender, with its ensemble of returning MCU stars and legacy characters giving it the potential to challenge the heights reached by “Brand New Day,” “Avengers: Endgame” and other recent franchise blockbusters.

To honor her birthday, here are 7 of her most memorable and career-defining performances.

1. Serena van der Woodsen – Gossip Girl (2007–2012)

As the magnetic, effortlessly chic “It Girl” of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Lively delivered one of the defining television turns of the 2000s. Her portrayal of Serena van der Woodsen launched her to global stardom overnight and cemented her status as an enduring pop-culture style icon.

2. Emily Nelson – A Simple Favor (2018)

In Paul Feig’s sharply stylish comedy-thriller, Lively delivered a tour-de-force performance as the enigmatic, martini-swilling, suit-wearing Emily Nelson. Opposite Anna Kendrick, Lively brought dark, chaotic wit and razor-sharp charm to the screen in one of the most critically praised roles of her career.

3. Kris Coughlin – The Town (2010)

Stepping well outside her Gossip Girl image, Lively delivered a gritty, scene-stealing dramatic turn as the troubled Charlestown mother Kris Coughlin in Ben Affleck’s crime thriller. Her grounded, raw performance earned high marks from critics and proved her range as a dramatic heavyweight.

4. Adaline Bowman – The Age of Adaline (2015)

Anchoring Lee Toland Krieger’s romantic fantasy, Lively brought timeless sophistication and quiet emotional weight to Adaline, a woman who miraculously stops aging at 29. Her performance carried the nearly century-spanning narrative with grace, romance, and understated heartbreak.

5. Nancy Adams – The Shallows (2016)

In this tense survival thriller, Lively virtually carried the entire feature on her shoulders as a medical student and surfer stranded on a rock facing off against a Great White Shark. Relying on physical grit and sheer screen presence, she turned the tight thriller into a massive critical and commercial hit.

6. Bridget Vreeland – The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)

In her breakout film role, an 18-year-old Lively played Bridget Vreeland, an athletic star grappling with personal grief and self-discovery during a summer away in Baja. Lively captured both the outward exuberance and quiet sorrow of youth, instantly marking her as a star to watch.

Unlearning the Trap of Constant Perception

For Styles, taking an extended hiatus wasn’t just about resting; it was about disentangling his identity from his career. Having grown up in the public eye, the prospect of time off used to trigger existential anxiety.

“In the time that I took away from touring, I watered a side of my life I hadn’t paid much attention to previously,” Styles explained. “The idea of not touring is less frightening to me… It doesn’t come with this existentialism that it used to, when I was like, Who am I if I don’t do this? I’m a little more comfortable with who I am if I’m not doing it.”

A major component of that break was shedding the anxiety of public feedback. Styles candidly described reading online comments as “death,” noting how constant awareness of public perception forces artists to perform for an audience rather than create authentically.

“It’s an easy trope to fall into. You can become so disconnected from the world, the universe, and people. Then you stop being able to relate,” Styles noted. “It’s almost like a constant loop of making bad sequels about the original.”

From 80s Rock to Berlin Techno

Reclaiming a normal life away from stadium stages directly reshaped his creative output. While living in Italy, Styles spent his free time attending LCD Soundsystem concerts and frequenting Berlin clubs like Berghain—experiences that heavily influenced his fourth solo album, Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally.

Moving away from the 1970s and ’80s rock influences of his earlier solo work, his newest sound embraces electronic pop, synth experimentation, and dance-floor catharsis. By stepping away to simply absorb life as an ordinary guy, Styles returned to the studio on his own terms—proving that sometimes disappearing is the best thing an artist can do for their craft.

Dave Franco Recalls the First Day of ‘Now You See Me’

The franchise follows the Four Horsemen, a team of illusionists who combine elaborate magic performances with increasingly ambitious heists. Franco plays Jack Wilder, a skilled magician and pickpocket who joins Jesse Eisenberg’s Daniel Atlas, Woody Harrelson’s Merritt McKinney and Isla Fisher’s Henley Reeves as one of the group’s original members.

According to People, Franco said the production immediately felt difficult to navigate. Rather than projecting confidence about what they were making, the cast apparently reached a much darker conclusion after their first day on set. “I remember at the end of the first day it was such chaos trying to figure it out, that we all went out to dinner and we literally cheersed to the end of our careers,” he recalled.

The joke became particularly memorable in hindsight. Released in 2013, “Now You See Me” went on to earn more than $350 million worldwide and established an audience strong enough to support a sequel in 2016. The franchise eventually expanded with “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t,” with the first three movies collectively earning more than $933 million worldwide.

Franco has now had enough distance from that first production to see just how dramatically things changed. “Cut to 15 years later, we’ve done three of these things with a forthcoming,” he told Evans.

Despite the cast’s early doubts, “Now You See Me” became one of those pictures whose commercial appeal proved stronger than its initial reception suggested. The series has continued to bring back familiar faces while introducing new members to its ensemble. What began with a cast joking about the end of their careers ultimately became a long-running studio franchise.

The Secrets to a Stress-Free Wedding Day

When preparing for their nuptials, the newlyweds were inundated with well-wishes and suggestions from friends and family. However, two specific rules of thumb stood out and ultimately shaped their entire experience:

“Our wedding day was such a beautiful celebration. People gave us lots of advice, but there were two suggestions that we really took on board,” Lipa shared. “One was to show up at our wedding like we were guests ourselves, which meant we had the best time and we weren’t stressed at all. The other was for Callum and me to keep checking in with each other so we didn’t lose each other in the crowd. As a result, we spent loads of time together and created so many amazing memories.”

A Changing Perspective on Love and Songwriting

Beyond the wedding details, Lipa spoke candidly about how her romantic journey with Turner has evolved her perspective on relationships—and influenced her artistic approach. Having built her early career on anthemic heartbreak hits, the singer noted a shift toward exploring the depth of lasting partnership.

“[Writing] about having a broken heart is very common,” Lipa explained. “When I was younger, I found much more inspiration in the search for and the longing for [true love] because heartbreak is such a loud emotion. But now I want to discover what happens after you find love. I’m interested in the everyday complexities of a relationship, in its quieter moments, in the small things.”

The pair, who first began dating in January 2024 before confirming their engagement in mid-2025, have frequently praised each other’s work ethic and mutual support.

Turner recently described their wedding as the “most beautiful day” of his life, proving that the duo’s guest-first mindset created a celebration both will cherish forever.

Princess Diana – The Crown (2022–2023)

Debicki’s portrayal of Diana, Princess of Wales, in the final seasons of Netflix’s royal drama stands as her crowning achievement, earning her a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe, and a SAG Award. Capturing Diana’s distinct vocal cadence, head tilts, and internal isolation with uncanny accuracy, Debicki delivered a masterclass in biographical drama.

Alice – Widows (2018)

In Steve McQueen’s ensemble heist thriller, Debicki delivered a breakout dramatic performance as Alice, a grieving woman overcoming emotional abuse to help execute a high-stakes robbery. Standing alongside Viola Davis, Debicki provided the heart of the film, earning widespread acclaim from critics associations worldwide.

Kat Barton – Tenet (2020)

Anchoring the emotional core of Christopher Nolan’s time-bending sci-fi blockbuster, Debicki played Kat, an art appraiser trapped in a toxic marriage to a ruthless arms dealer. Debicki brought grounded humanity and fierce maternal drive to the high-concept action puzzle.

Jed Marshall – The Night Manager (2016)

Opposite Tom Hiddleston and Hugh Laurie in the BBC/AMC miniseries adaptation of John le Carré’s spy novel, Debicki commanded the screen as Jed Marshall. Her magnetic turn as a glamorous yet deeply conflicted woman trapped in a dangerous criminal network earned her an early wave of international stardom.

Jordan Baker – The Great Gatsby (2013)

In Baz Luhrmann’s lavish Scott Fitzgerald adaptation, a young Debicki stole scene after scene as the cynical, detached golfer Jordan Baker. Marking her major feature debut, the role earned her the AACTA Award for Best Supporting Actress and announced her arrival on the global stage.

Ayesha – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 & Vol. 3 (2017, 2023)

Displaying her deadpan comedic timing, Debicki entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ayesha, the gold-skinned High Priestess of the Sovereign. Seated atop extravagant thrones in ornate gold gowns, Debicki played the character’s petty, pompous arrogance with delicious theatrical flair.

Victoria Vinciguerra – The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)

Guy Ritchie’s stylish retro spy caper allowed Debicki to lean into full-fledged villainy as Victoria Vinciguerra, a cold, calculating Nazi sympathizer spearheading a nuclear plot. Dressed in sharp 1960s couture, she delivered one of the movie’s most memorable, commanding turns.

Elizabeth Bender – MaXXXine (2024)

In Ti West’s 1980s slasher trilogy finale, Debicki played Elizabeth Bender, an uncompromising B-movie director fighting for artistic control while making a star out of Maxine Minx (Mia Goth). Debicki brought sharp wit, intimidating authority, and an unforgettable presence to the cult horror feature.

Kate Hudson On Board as Studio Eyes Original Duo

Hudson will produce the sequel alongside veteran producer Stacey Sher (Pulp Fiction, Erin Brockovich, Django Unchained, Vanilla Sky) through her Shiny Penny banner. While development remains in its early stages, the clear goal for Paramount and the creative team is to have both Hudson and co-star Matthew McConaughey reprise their beloved roles as magazine columnist Andie Anderson and advertising executive Benjamin Barry.

The project is actively seeking a screenwriter to pitch a fresh story, meaning official casting deals will hinge on the direction of the script. Reps for both stars did not immediately comment on the report.

Riding the Massive Y2K Nostalgia Wave

A follow-up to the iconic rom-com aligns seamlessly with Hollywood’s current box office playbook. The announcement arrives amid a massive wave of early-2000s throwbacks dominating theaters. Hits like The Devil Wears Prada 2, Scary Movie 6, and Toy Story 5 have already delivered massive theatrical returns, with upcoming titles like Practical Magic 2, Focker-In-Law, Shrek 5, and Greta Gerwig’s Narnia keeping the nostalgia train rolling.

The Legacy of Andie Anderson and Benjamin Barry

Directed by Donald Petrie, the original 2003 film grossed nearly $180 million worldwide against a $50 million budget, becoming a cornerstone of the modern romantic comedy canon. The plot centered on Andie writing an undercover column on how to drive a man away in 10 days, while Ben made a high-stakes workplace bet that he could make any woman fall in love with him in the same timeframe. The film’s stellar ensemble also featured Kathryn Hahn, Adam Goldberg, Thomas Lennon, Michael Michele, and Shalom Harlow.

Where the Stars Stand Today

Both leads enter the potential sequel during thriving chapters in their careers:

• Kate Hudson: Earned her second Academy Award nomination for 2025’s Song Sung Blue (following her breakout turn in Almost Famous) and currently stars in the Netflix sports comedy series Running Point.
• Matthew McConaughey: Recently returned to the big screen in The Rivals of Amziah King after a six-year film hiatus. McConaughey has frequently praised the 2003 film as a career “anchor” and jokingly referred to its ongoing residual checks as the “gift that keeps on giving.”

1. Lucas Scott – One Tree Hill (2003–2009, 2012)

As the soul-searching, basketball-playing aspiring novelist at the center of Tree Hill, Murray delivered the defining teen drama performance of the 2000s. His complex brotherly rivalry with Nathan (James Lafferty) and legendary “will-they-won’t-they” romances with Peyton (Hilarie Burton) and Brooke (Sophia Bush) made Lucas Scott an indelible television hero.

2. Austin Ames – A Cinderella Story (2004)

Opposite Hilary Duff, Murray brought effortless charm to the classic teen romance as Austin Ames, the high school star quarterback secretly hiding a passion for poetry. Dressed in his iconic masked prince costume, Murray helped turn the modern fairy-tale retelling into a generational sleepover staple.

3. Jake – Freaky Friday (2003)

In Disney’s hit fantasy comedy, Murray played Jake, the motorcycle-riding crush who unwittingly serenades Tess Coleman (Jamie Lee Curtis trapped in Lindsay Lohan’s body) with “Baby, I Love Your Way”. His comedic timing and heartthrob presence made the role an instant fan favorite.

4. Tristan DuGray – Gilmore Girls (2000–2001)

In one of his earliest breakout roles, Murray made a lasting impression as Chilton prep school’s resident bad boy, Tristan DuGray. Persistently teasing Rory Gilmore (Alexis Bledel) with the nickname “Mary,” Murray injected genuine vulnerability beneath Tristan’s arrogant facade.

5. Cal Jones – Sullivan’s Crossing (2023–present)

Marking a triumphant return to small-town TV romance, Murray currently stars as Cal Jones, a mystery-shrouded widower who forms a deep connection with neurosurgeon Maggie Sullivan (Morgan Kohan). Re-teaming with Gilmore Girls alum Scott Patterson, Murray’s grounded maturity anchors the hit series.

6. Agent Jack Thompson – Marvel’s Agent Carter (2015–2016)

Proving his dramatic range beyond teen heartthrob territory, Murray stepped into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as SSR Agent Jack Thompson. Playing a complex, ambitious World War II veteran navigating post-war espionage alongside Hayley Atwell’s Peggy Carter, Murray brought sharp nuance to the flawed officer.

7. Edgar Evernever – Riverdale (2019)

Leaning into pure campy villainy, Murray brought magnetic, unsettling energy to Riverdale as Edgar Evernever, the charismatic and organ-harvesting leader of “The Farm” cult. Clad in a rocket suit during his wild exit, Murray clearly relished every eccentric moment on screen.

“I want to go dark,” Ronan told Empire, doubling down on her desire to step into the franchise’s rogue gallery. “I said that I wanted to be a Bond villain and I’m dead serious.”

Pitching a Young Female Antagonist

Ronan articulated why taking on 007 appeals to her dramatically, highlighting a fresh perspective that the 60-year franchise has rarely explored for its primary overarching villains.

“I think it would be really interesting, having a young female villain,” Ronan elaborated. “Especially for girls and women, to see someone who can just take all that pent-up anger and direct it somewhere, there’s something interesting in that dramatically. So I would love to do more of that.”

While the James Bond series has featured iconic female henchwomen and secondary foes over the decades—such as Famke Janssen’s Xenia Onatopp in GoldenEye or Sophie Marceau’s Elektra King in The World Is Not Enough—a main antagonist played by a young female actor would mark a historic first for a main 007 entry.

Action Credentials and a Family Twist

Though celebrated for her acclaimed performances in period dramas and coming-of-age classics like Atonement, Lady Bird, and Little Women, Ronan is no stranger to action or dark psychological territory:

• Action Lineage: Her breakthrough starring turn in Joe Wright’s 2011 thriller Hanna showcased her ability to handle intense physical choreography and play a lethal, trained killer.
• Choosing Bond Over Marvel: Ronan previously revealed she turned down potential Marvel Cinematic Universe offers specifically because she preferred chasing a villainous role in the Bond universe.
• A Real-Life Counterpart: Adding a playful layer to her campaign, Ronan’s husband, Slow Horses star Jack Lowden, has frequently been floated by industry insiders as a potential candidate to play the next James Bond himself.

With EON Productions and Amazon MGM Studios currently developing the next era of 007, Ronan’s persistent and passionate pitch presents producers with a game-changing direction for Bond 26.

HBO originally structured Hoult’s contract around his existing obligations—which include reprising his role as Lex Luthor in DC’s Man of Tomorrow. However, when the shooting calendar for Lockhart’s scenes moved within Season 2’s production timeline, the delicate scheduling workaround collapsed, leading both sides to amicably part ways and release Hoult from his deal.

Enter Kit Harington

Taking over the mantle of Hogwarts’ most charmingly fraudulent celebrity wizard is Game of Thrones alumnus Kit Harington. The casting marks a natural fit for Harington, who previously voiced Lockhart in the 2025 Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions. Harington now steps into the live-action robes of the vain, memory-charming professor previously portrayed on the big screen by Kenneth Branagh in 2002.

Adapting J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Season 2 begins production this fall as Season 1 prepares for its premiere. Harington joins an adult cast that includes John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall, Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, and Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, alongside young leads Dominic McLaughlin (Harry Potter), Arabella Stanton (Hermione Granger), and Alastair Stout (Ron Weasley).

1. Ron Weasley (Harry Potter Franchise, 2001–2011)

The loyal, witty, and deeply relatable best friend to Harry Potter and Hermione Granger. You cannot talk about Rupert Grint without mentioning the wizarding world. Auditioning with a rap video about his desire to play Ron, Grint hit the jackpot. Across all eight films, he brought unmatched comedic timing, emotional vulnerability, and heart to the golden trio. Whether facing down giant spiders, playing a life-sized game of wizard’s chess, or delivering classic one-liners, Grint made Ron feel like a best friend to an entire generation of fans.

2. Ben Marshall (Driving Lessons, 2006)

A repressed teenager trapped by a domineering mother who takes a job with an eccentric, aging ex-actress (played by Julie Walters, his former on-screen mum). Released right in the middle of the Harry Potter mania, this coming-of-age indie comedy-drama allowed Grint to step outside of Hogwarts. Playing a more grounded, awkward, and deeply human character, Grint proved he could carry a smaller, character-driven narrative with charm and nuance.

3. Daniel Glass (Sick Note, 2017–2018)

An incompetent insurance rep who keeps up a massive web of lies after being misdiagnosed with terminal cancer. Marking a brilliant pivot into dark comedy, Grint showcased his sharp knack for farce and physical comedy. Starring alongside comedy heavyweights like Nick Frost and Lindsay Lohan, Grint proved his chops in modern television, anchoring a chaotic premise with total comedic commitment.

4. Charlie Cavendish (Snatch, 2017–2018)

An utterly eccentric, posh, and chaotic hustler in this television series adaptation of Guy Ritchie’s cult-classic crime film. Sporting wild cardigans, flamboyant coats, and a chaotic energy far removed from Ron Weasley, Grint threw himself headfirst into the action-comedy genre. Not only did he star in the series, but he also served as an executive producer, signaling his growth behind the camera as well.

5. Julian Turner (Servant, 2019–2023)

A sharp-tongued, alcoholic, and fiercely protective brother-in-law caught up in a deeply unsettling psychological thriller. For many fans, M. Night Shyamalan’s Apple TV+ thriller series was the ultimate proof of Grint’s dramatic range. As Julian, Grint balanced dark, cynical humor with intense, raw dread. It was a mature, magnetic performance that won over a whole new audience of adult thriller enthusiasts.

Whether he’s casting spells, navigating chaotic family dramas, or diving into psychological horror, Rupert Grint continues to be a joy to watch on screen.

The All-Time Worldwide Box Office Top 5

• 1. Avatar (2009) – $2.92 Billion
• 2. Avengers: Endgame (2019) – $2.79 Billion
• 3. Avatar: The Way of Water (2022) – $2.33 Billion
• 4. Titanic (1997) – $2.25 Billion
• 5. Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026) – $2.20+ Billion

A Cinematic Reset That Resonated Globally

Brand New Day kicked off a fresh chapter for Peter Parker following the multiverse-shattering events of Spider-Man: No Way Home. Stripping the hero back to his street-level roots as an isolated vigilante in New York City, the film balanced grounded emotional stakes with high-octane action—featuring scene-stealing appearances from Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova and Jon Bernthal’s Punisher.

Unprecedented international momentum helped fuel the run, with overseas territories contributing over $1.34 billion to complement its record-shattering domestic haul.

With $2.2 billion now banked, Tom Holland’s fourth solo outing officially leaves Spider-Man: No Way Home ($1.92B) in its rearview mirror. As the film continues to draw crowds at international multiplexes, industry analysts are keeping a close eye on whether Spidey can pull off one final trick: overtaking James Cameron’s Titanic ($2.25B) to claim the #4 spot on the all-time list.

“I never want to repeat myself and all my films have been on the money. I’ve been ahead of the game frequently and, if you’re ahead of the game, you’re an influencer. So, I’m not a film-maker, I’m an influencer.”

Setting Trends While Slamming Modern Tropes

Scott’s playful redefinition of his title stems from his ongoing frustration with Hollywood’s current creative stagnation. In the same sit-down, the director held nothing back when assessing the state of mainstream storytelling, arguing that modern films have fallen into lazy, predictable traps.

“Look, everything now is about a murdered girl in the woods or an FBI agent who is better than anyone else – or a superhero,” Scott lamented. “F me! There have to be other stories to tell.”*

What’s Next for Cinema’s Ultimate “Influencer”?

Refusing to slow down, Scott continues a relentless work ethic. While preparing for his upcoming post-apocalyptic pandemic thriller The Dog Stars (starring Jacob Elordi), he teased an eclectic slate of bucket-list genres he plans to tackle next:

• A Classic Western: A genre the British auteur has surprisingly never directed across his 40-plus year career.
• Treasure Island: A high-seas adaptation with Hugh Jackman officially cast to star.
• A Feature Musical: Stepping into full-fledged song and dance for the first time.
• An African Elephant Drama: A sweeping project centered on nature’s gentle giants.

Whether establishing the visual blueprint for science fiction back in 1979 or refusing to compromise on original storytelling today, Ridley Scott’s self-proclaimed status as an “influencer” is hard to argue with—he’s still dictating where the medium goes next.

For years, Joaquin guardedly kept his grief private amid intense media scrutiny. But as time has passed, the Oscar-winning actor has spoken openly about the profound, eternal bond he shares with River, attributing his entire artistic path to his brother’s early encouragement.

The Catalyst Behind an Iconic Career

Joaquin frequently recalls the exact moment River altered the trajectory of his life. As teenagers, after returning home from a set, River sat 15-year-old Joaquin down with a VHS copy of Martin Scorsese’s Raging Bull.

“He made me watch it. The next day, he woke me up and made me watch it again,” Joaquin recalled while receiving the Tribute Actor Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. “He said, ‘You’re going to start acting again. This is what you’re going to do.’ He didn’t ask me—he told me. And I am indebted to him for that, because acting has given me such an incredible life.”

River even predicted Joaquin’s ultimate Hollywood standing, telling him with quiet certainty that he would grow up to become an extraordinary, globally recognized performer.

A Presence in Every Performance

In a candid sit-down with 60 Minutes, Joaquin shared that River’s spirit continues to advise him on every set he steps onto. Whether preparing for complex character studies in Walk the Line, The Master, or Joker, Joaquin views his craft through the sensitive, attentive lens his brother instilled in him.

“I feel like in virtually every movie that I made, there was a connection to River in some way,” Joaquin reflected. “We’ve all felt his presence and guidance in our lives in numerous ways.”

Honoring the Legacy Across Generations

When Joaquin won the Academy Award for Best Actor in 2020, he closed his acceptance speech by fighting back tears to quote a lyric written by a 17-year-old River: “Run to the rescue with love, and peace will follow.”

Later that same year, Joaquin and his partner, Rooney Mara, welcomed their first child—a son whom they named River, ensuring that the name, spirit, and love of one of cinema’s brightest young lights endures for generations to come.

The November release date comes precisely 120 days after the film opened in theaters on July 17. By preserving a full four-month window of theatrical exclusivity, Universal and Nolan mirrored the rollout strategy used for 2023’s Oppenheimer. The generous window allowed the sprawling three-hour spectacle to maximize its run on premium screens worldwide, cementing Nolan’s firm commitment to the traditional cinema experience before offering fans the chance to own the film at home.

That patient theatrical strategy paid off in unprecedented fashion. The Odyssey has grossed roughly $1.352 billion worldwide, officially surpassing Deadpool & Wolverine to become the highest-grossing R-rated film in cinematic history. Shot using custom IMAX film technology across international locations, the epic also generated a record-shattering $257 million from IMAX auditoriums alone, making it the highest-earning IMAX release ever recorded.

Adapted from Homer’s foundational Greek poem, the 172-minute film tracks King Odysseus (Matt Damon) on his perilous ten-year voyage back to Ithaca following the fall of Troy. Backed by a star-studded ensemble that includes Anne Hathaway as Penelope, Tom Holland as Telemachus, Zendaya as Athena, and Robert Pattinson as Antinous, Nolan’s visceral direction brought classical antiquity to life with groundbreaking practical effects and thunderous scale.

While experiencing The Odyssey on a multi-story screen remains an unforgettable event, the upcoming digital and physical home release offers audiences a welcome chance to digest the densely layered narrative—and pause for a quick intermission during its massive runtime—when it arrives in home theaters on November 17.

To honor his legacy, here are 7 essential River Phoenix films that showcase why he remains one of the most gifted performers of his generation.

Stand by Me (1986)

Rob Reiner’s coming-of-age masterpiece served as Phoenix’s definitive breakout performance. Playing Chris Chambers, a tough yet fiercely protective kid from the wrong side of the tracks, Phoenix brought a haunting, soulful maturity to the role that elevated the entire film. His emotional campfire monologue about broken trust remains one of the most powerful scenes in youth cinema history.

Running on Empty (1988)

In Sidney Lumet’s moving family drama, Phoenix earned a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination at just 18 years old. Playing Danny Pope, the piano-prodigy son of 1960s anti-war activists living perpetually on the run, Phoenix captured the agonizing quiet ache of a teenager longing to step out of his parents’ shadows and claim a life of his own.

My Own Private Idaho (1991)

Gus Van Sant’s avant-garde indie classic delivered what many consider Phoenix’s finest artistic achievement. As Mike Waters, a narcoleptic street hustler searching for his estranged mother across the Pacific Northwest and Italy, Phoenix gave a performance of heartbreaking delicacy. His unscripted campfire confession of unrequited love to co-star Keanu Reeves won him the Venice Film Festival’s Best Actor award.

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)

Showcasing his effortless blockbuster appeal, Phoenix opened Steven Spielberg’s third Indy installment as a 13-year-old Indiana Jones. In a high-octane ten-minute prologue, Phoenix nailed Harrison Ford’s distinct mannerisms, chin scar origin, and fedora flair so convincingly that it inspired the creation of The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles.

Dogfight (1991)

Opposite Lili Taylor, Phoenix starred in Nancy Savoca’s understated, bittersweet period drama. Playing Eddie Birdlace, a 1960s Marine about to be shipped off to Vietnam who participates in a cruel dating contest, Phoenix expertly mapped his character’s journey from coarse toxic bravado to genuine romantic regret.

The Mosquito Coast (1986)

Sharing the screen with Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren, a 16-year-old Phoenix played Charlie Fox, the observant eldest son of an eccentric inventor who uproots his family to the Central American jungle. Phoenix provided the film’s moral conscience, balancing admiration for his father with a growing terror of his descending madness.

Sneakers (1992)

Demonstrating his talent for ensemble comedy and lighthearted thrillers, Phoenix joined an all-star cast including Robert Redford, Sidney Poitier, and Dan Aykroyd. Playing Carl Arbegast, a youthful, tech-obsessed hacker, Phoenix brought effortless charm and sharp comedic timing to the beloved caper classic.

To celebrate his legacy, here are 5 essential Sopranos episodes that highlight Jerry Adler’s brilliant performance.

1. “A Hit Is a Hit” (Season 1, Episode 10)

This episode puts Hesh front and center as a former music mogul whose past comes back to haunt him when a rival rapper demands royalties for old Black artists Hesh produced in the 1960s. Adler delivers some of the series’ most iconic lines with deadpan perfection, famously schooling Christopher Moltisanti’s wannabe rock band with the timeless verdict: “A hit is a hit. And this, my friend, is not a hit.”

2. “Chasing It” (Season 6, Episode 16)

In one of Adler’s most poignant dramatic turns, a mounting $200,000 loan between Tony and Hesh threatens their decades-long friendship. As Tony’s gambling addiction sparks unsettling resentment toward his old friend, Adler portrays Hesh’s growing fear, quiet dignity, and profound heartbreak—compounded by the sudden loss of his partner, Renata—with devastating subtlety.

3. “The Sopranos” / Pilot (Season 1, Episode 1)

Introduced in the show’s very first hour, Hesh is established as the elder statesman and voice of reason in Tony’s orbit. Adler immediately sets the tone for the character, counseling Tony on an HMO scam at Satriale’s while offering seasoned, unflappable wisdom that made him an indispensable sounding board throughout the series.

4. “The Happy Wanderer” (Season 2, Episode 6)

Set against the backdrop of the high-stakes “Executive Game” poker match, Hesh brings veteran calm to a room full of volatile mobsters. Adler shines as he trades sharp banter with Tony while warning younger mobsters about the dangerous psychological traps of unchecked debt.

5. “Remember When” (Season 6, Episode 15)

As Tony and Paulie head off to Miami to lay low, Hesh remains a steady anchor back home in New Jersey. The episode highlights Hesh’s unique position as one of the few surviving figures from the old guard who can speak candidly about the past without falling prey to foolish nostalgia.

Adler’s ability to imbue Hesh with warmth, tactical shrewdness, and dry humor turned a supporting character into one of cable television’s most memorable figures.

The Album That Changed Dua Lipa’s Trajectory

The transformation began well before Future Nostalgia reached listeners. Lipa started working on the album in August 2018 and spent more than a year developing its direction. Rather than simply extending the sound of her debut, she set out to create something that could connect the music she grew up hearing with a more contemporary production style. The concept eventually became clear through the title itself, which was chosen to represent the meeting point between memories of the past and possibilities for the future.

That idea shaped the album’s music. Lipa drew from several decades of pop, disco and dance music while incorporating electronic production and contemporary pop structures. The result was not a straightforward throwback record. Tracks such as “Don’t Start Now,” “Physical,” “Break My Heart” and “Levitating” used familiar elements from earlier eras while giving them a polished modern framework. The album’s consistency also helped distinguish it from a collection built around individual singles, with its songs sharing a recognizable musical identity.

“Don’t Start Now” became the crucial first step in that transition. Released in October 2019, months before the album itself, the song introduced the new direction with its disco-influenced production and became Lipa’s first top-three entry on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. It also reached No. 2 in the UK and U.S., establishing momentum for the album before its release.

The album’s arrival could hardly have happened under more complicated circumstances. After the complete record leaked in March 2020, its release was moved forward by one week to March 27. That meant Future Nostalgia reached the public just as the COVID-19 pandemic was disrupting everyday life around the world. Its planned touring campaign was also postponed, eventually becoming the Future Nostalgia Tour, which began in February 2022.

Despite that difficult timing, the album continued to grow. Future Nostalgia topped charts across multiple countries and eventually became a major award-season success. It won the Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Album and earned a nomination for Album of the Year, while Lipa also received recognition for “Don’t Start Now.” In the UK, the album earned her first Mercury Prize nomination and won the Brit Award for British Album of the Year.

The album’s legacy also extended beyond its initial release. Lipa continued expanding the project through Club Future Nostalgia, the Moonlight Edition and the Studio 2054 livestream before eventually taking the record on the road. By then, Future Nostalgia had done more than produce a run of successful singles. It had established a clear musical and visual identity for Lipa and marked the point when her career moved from promising pop newcomer to established global star.

The Career That Turned Dua Lipa Into a Global Icon

Lipa’s first major breakthrough came with “New Rules,” the song that changed the scale of her career. Released as part of her 2017 debut album, it became her first UK No. 1 and helped introduce her to a much larger international audience. By the end of that year, she had also become the most-streamed woman in the UK on Spotify, giving her momentum that would carry into the next stage of her career.

She quickly followed that success with even bigger moments. In 2018, Lipa received five Brit Award nominations and won two, while her collaboration with Calvin Harris, “One Kiss,” became the UK’s best-selling song of the year. The track spent eight weeks at No. 1, further establishing Lipa as an artist who could dominate the charts well beyond her initial breakthrough.

Then came Future Nostalgia, the album that pushed her career into another league. Released in 2020, it leaned heavily into disco, dance-pop and house influences while delivering songs such as “Don’t Start Now,” “Physical,” “Break My Heart” and “Levitating.” The album reached No. 1 in the UK, earned Lipa a Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Album and produced a run of songs that kept her at the center of pop culture well after its release.

Lipa has since made a point of expanding beyond the recording studio. She stepped into acting with “Barbie” and “Argylle,” while her third album, Radical Optimism, debuted at No. 1 in the UK and included “Houdini,” “Training Season” and “Illusion.” Her reach has also extended into fashion through partnerships with brands including Versace, Puma, Yves Saint Laurent and Adidas.

That combination of music, fashion and film has helped make Lipa much more than a chart success. Time named her one of the world’s 100 most influential people in 2024, and Billboard placed her at No. 25 on its ranking of the Top 100 Women Artists of the 21st Century in 2025. At 31, she enters the next chapter of her career with a track record that already places her among the defining pop stars of her generation.

Andrew Garfield Has an Unexpected Instagram Habit

Garfield’s relationship with Instagram is not quite what fans might expect from an actor who has largely stayed away from the public-facing side of social media. He revealed that he does have a private account, giving him a way to browse the platform without turning his own life into content.

The actor also acknowledged that he can get pulled into the same endless scrolling that affects millions of other users. “I’m as addicted as anybody,” Garfield admitted, before revealing that his own screen-time reports are difficult to look at.

For Garfield, the problem goes beyond simply spending too much time on his phone. “My screen time notifications are horrific to me. It’s like, I’ve given all of those hours to nothing,” he said. He also described the design behind those habits as “pretty dark when you look at it.”

Despite his concerns about Instagram, Garfield has found some particularly niche corners of the platform. His browsing can lead him into “weird ceramics” and “lots of Japanese kind of craftspeople.”

The confession comes as Garfield promotes “The Magic Faraway Tree,” the fantasy adventure directed by Ben Gregor. The film stars Garfield alongside Claire Foy, Nicola Coughlan, Nonso Anozie, Jessica Gunning, Jennifer Saunders and Rebecca Ferguson, and follows a family whose move to the countryside leads their children to a magical world hidden beyond the titular tree.

Anthony Michael Hall Explains Why He Turned Down John Hughes

Hall was already concerned about being typecast when Hughes approached him about “Pretty in Pink.” After starring in “Sixteen Candles,” the actor felt the new project was too close to territory he had already explored. “It kind of felt like a redo in a way,” Hall recalled.

The decision to reject “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” carried greater consequences because Hughes had written the title role with Hall in mind before Matthew Broderick ultimately took over. Hall said he was focused on expanding his career rather than remaining attached to the same kind of teenage character.

“Unfortunately, you know, what happened was he wanted me to do both films at the time, and I just felt it was important that I kind of move forward, you know?” Hall said. He acknowledged that Hughes was hurt by the decision, something he did not fully anticipate when he made it.

According to Hall, the fallout created a “rupture” between them that lasted for years. He also described Hughes as a sensitive person who took the rejection personally. “I think that that, um, hurt his feelings in a way that I didn’t anticipate,” Hall said.

Despite the distance that followed, Hall remains appreciative of the filmmaker’s role in his early success. He also has no hard feelings toward the stars who ultimately appeared in the movies he declined, emphasizing that he still sees those films as successful projects. “But, listen…we’ve lived long enough to know you have to wish everyone success in life, and you can’t harbor resentment,” he said.

Looking back, Hall maintains that his decision came from a desire to develop professionally rather than dismiss Hughes or the opportunities he had given him. “I was really just trying to move forward professionally. But at the same time, with full acknowledgement of what he’d given me, you know?” he said.

‘Sicario 3’ Finally Has a Clearer Path Forward

“Sicario 3” has spent years caught in development. The third movie, reportedly titled “Sicario: Capos,” was announced before “Sicario: Day of the Soldado” reached theaters, but the project remained in development for years. Producer Molly Smith said in 2021 that the picture was still being worked on, while later reports pointed to continued progress on the script.

Brolin’s involvement also connects the potential sequel directly to the two entries that came before it. He plays Matt Graver, the CIA officer who works alongside Benicio del Toro‘s Alejandro Gillick in the franchise. Brolin appeared in both “Sicario” and “Sicario: Day of the Soldado,” with the latter continuing Graver and Alejandro’s covert operations against Mexican cartels.

The first “Sicario,” released in 2015, established the series as a dark crime thriller centered on the U.S.-Mexico border, with Taylor Sheridan writing the screenplay and Denis Villeneuve directing. The film starred Emily Blunt, del Toro and Brolin, earning three Academy Award nominations and strong reviews for its performances, direction, cinematography and score.

“Sicario: Day of the Soldado”, released in 2018, shifted the focus toward Graver and Alejandro while retaining the morally murky world created by Sheridan. The sequel was also commercially successful, earning $75.8 million worldwide against a reported production budget of $35 million.

‘National Treasure 3’ Has Been a Long Time Coming

A third installment has spent years trapped in development. The franchise began with the 2004 film, which introduced Nicolas Cage as Benjamin Franklin Gates, a historian and treasure hunter obsessed with solving clues hidden throughout American history. The sequel followed in 2007, expanding the story with another international hunt and returning characters including Riley Poole and Abigail Chase.

Since then, the idea of a third movie has repeatedly surfaced without reaching the screen. A sequel was officially put into development in 2008, and multiple scripts were written or revised over the years. Even when the project appeared to be making progress, Disney’s approval remained a hurdle. By 2020, “National Treasure 3” was officially back in development, with Chris Bremner hired to write a new script. Even then, the picture remained far from becoming a reality.

That makes Turteltaub’s latest comments different from the usual update attached to this project. Speaking to fans at the podcast event, the director simply declared, “it’s happening.” He also revealed that the audience in Philadelphia was the first group he had told about the development publicly, adding, “you deserve to have the scoop.”

The biggest question has always been whether the original cast could be part of the comeback. Turteltaub said Disney has a script the studio likes and indicated that, “to whatever extent we can, everyone’s back,” including Cage. It remains to be seen whether the A-lister will ultimately confirm his return.

‘Sterling Point’ Finds an Audience on Prime Video

Created by Megan Park, “Sterling Point” follows 17-year-old Annie Jacobson, played by Ella Rubin, whose life changes after she learns that she and her twin brother Connor, portrayed by Keen Ruffalo, have inherited their grandfather’s remote island in Muskoka, Canada. The unexpected inheritance sends Annie into an unfamiliar environment where she begins uncovering secrets connected to her family.

The series combines its coming-of-age story with romance, friendship and a family mystery. Jacob Whiteduck-Lavoie plays Ellis Anderson, a local boat-builder who becomes close to Annie, while Amélie Hoeferle, Daniel Quinn-Toye and Bo Bragason round out the central young cast. Jeffrey Dean Morgan and Jay Duplass also appear in the hit alongside Missi Pyle and other recurring performers.

Its early reception has also helped establish the show’s profile. “Sterling Point” currently holds a 90% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 41 reviews, while Metacritic has awarded the production a score of 76 out of 100 from 17 critics. Reviews have highlighted the performances and its deliberate pacing, with comparisons to teen dramas from the 1990s and early 2000s.

The series has also drawn attention for combining familiar young adult elements with a broader story about grief, identity and complicated family relationships. Rather than relying exclusively on romantic storylines, “Sterling Point” uses Annie’s arrival in Muskoka to explore unresolved questions surrounding her family and her mother’s past.

Jonathan Tropper Says ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ Will Be Different

Tropper said the goal from the beginning was to avoid making a story that depended heavily on established franchise lore. “What we wanted to do was to tell a story that was free of (Star Wars) mythology,” the writer said.

He also pointed to the film’s place in the chronology as an important part of that approach. “We were out ahead in the timeline,” Tropper added, allowing the filmmakers to move beyond the events that have dominated the saga so far.

That decision also opened the door to audiences who might not have followed every chapter of the franchise. According to Tropper, the team wanted “something with as few barriers of entry as possible for new fans and viewers.” He described the goal in straightforward terms: “It’s a simpler movie.”

Tropper was even more direct when describing what the picture will not be. “This isn’t a Skywalker saga movie,” he said. The writer continued by listing several of the franchise’s defining factions: “we’re not dealing with the history of the Rebellion, the First Order, the Resistance or the Empire.” Instead, “we’re kind of beyond all that.”

Directed by Shawn Levy, “Star Wars: Starfighter” stars Gosling as Kade Auberon, with Flynn Gray, Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings and Amy Adams also appearing.

Wladimir Klitschko Remembers Hayden Panettiere on Her Birthday

Klitschko began his message by acknowledging the painful timing. “Today is Hayden’s birthday. Instead of celebrating the way we had planned, today we celebrate her life, her spirit, and the love she brought into this world.”

The former heavyweight boxing champion then thanked the people who had reached out following Panettiere’s death. “I want to thank all of Hayden’s fans, friends, and everyone who has reached out for the incredible outpouring of love and support,” he wrote. “At a time filled with so much sadness, your kindness has reminded me that there is still so much good in humanity.”

Panettiere and Klitschko began dating in 2009 and eventually became engaged in 2013. They welcomed their daughter in 2014 and remained connected after ending their romantic relationship. In his message, Klitschko asked those mourning Panettiere to turn their attention toward the people around them. “If you’re reading this, I ask just one thing: even if only for a moment, think about LOVE. Reach out to a friend. Forgive someone. Be kind.”

He closed the tribute with a short message that summed up the way he wanted Panettiere to be remembered. “Love is a superpower. Use it.” He then addressed the actress directly: “Happy Birthday, Hayden. You are loved, you are missed, and you will never be forgotten.”

Panettiere died on Aug. 16 at the age of 36, five days before her 37th birthday. She was found unresponsive at an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina, and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said there were no initial signs of foul play, while an autopsy found no signs of trauma.

The actress began working as a child and went on to become best known for roles including Claire Bennet on “Heroes,” Kirby Reed in the “Scream” franchise and Juliette Barnes on “Nashville.” She also voiced characters in the “Kingdom Hearts” games and appeared in projects including “Remember the Titans,” “Ice Princess” and “Until Dawn.”

‘Avengers: Endgame Encore’ Connects the Infinity Saga to ‘Avengers: Doomsday’

“Avengers: Endgame Encore” is scheduled to arrive in theaters on September 25, three months before “Avengers: Doomsday.” The re-release is intended to revisit the conclusion of the Infinity Saga while adding material that leads audiences toward Marvel’s next “Avengers” story. The new presentation will include a pre-recorded introduction from directors Anthony and Joe Russo.

“Avengers: Doomsday” is positioned as a continuation of the story left behind by “Endgame.” The upcoming film is scheduled for December 18, and brings together characters from different corners of the MCU as well as heroes from other Marvel universes.

Robert Downey Jr. will return to the MCU in “Doomsday,” but not as Tony Stark. He is playing Victor von Doom, the picture’s central villain, while the Russo brothers are back in the director’s chairs. The connection to “Endgame” also extends to Chris Evans. Steve Rogers finished the 2019 title by traveling back to the 1940s to live with Peggy Carter, but he is also coming back.

The upcoming crossover will unite several groups of heroes against Doctor Doom, including the Avengers, Wakandans, New Avengers, Fantastic Four and X-Men from different universes. Marvel has also assembled a particularly large ensemble around Downey’s villain, with the film bringing back characters played by Chris Hemsworth, Pedro Pascal, Paul Rudd, Florence Pugh, Patrick Stewart and several others.

Jacob Elordi Keeps His James Bond Cards Close to His Chest

Elordi’s appearance at “The Dog Stars” premiere came at an important moment for the Bond franchise. Amazon MGM Studios is developing the next installment with Denis Villeneuve directing, Steven Knight writing the screenplay, and producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman overseeing the new era of 007.

The casting process is already generating plenty of speculation, with Jack Lowden and Callum Turner among the names frequently mentioned as leading contenders. Elordi has also remained part of the wider conversation despite being Australian, with reports previously indicating that he had met with the creative team.

That made the question at the London premiere particularly difficult to avoid. When Variety asked whether he had been involved in the auditions, Elordi offered a deliberately brief response: “I’m here on holiday.”

The answer did not confirm or deny anything about his potential involvement. It also allowed Elordi to redirect the conversation toward his actual reason for being in London, the premiere of “The Dog Stars,” where he stars alongside Josh Brolin, Margaret Qualley and Guy Pearce.

The Ridley Scott picture follows Hig, a former civilian pilot living in a world devastated by a flu pandemic that has nearly wiped out humanity. Elordi leads the cast as the character, who lives with his dog while trying to survive alongside Brolin’s hardened former Marine. “The Dog Stars” is scheduled to arrive in U.S. theaters on August 28.

While Elordi avoided giving the Bond casting process any new information, his presence in the conversation is unlikely to disappear anytime soon. Amazon MGM is reportedly moving through auditions as it searches for a younger actor capable of carrying the franchise across multiple films, with an official announcement expected before the end of 2026.

Why Patrick Swayze Turned Down the ‘Dirty Dancing’ Sequel

“Dirty Dancing” had become far more successful than its modest production suggested. The film followed Frances “Baby” Houseman as she fell for Johnny, a dance instructor at a Catskills resort, while navigating the class divisions and social expectations surrounding her. It went on to earn $214 million worldwide and became a major cultural phenomenon.

For Swayze, however, the success did not automatically make another movie necessary. In a 2002 appearance on Late Night with Conan O’Brien, he discussed the possibility of a follow-up and explained that he did not want Hollywood to turn the original’s success into a formula. Smooth Radio reports that Swayze recalled having been offered as much as $10 million for a sequel, although IMDb’s trivia entry lists the offer at $6 million.

His reluctance was also tied to the way he viewed the original picture. Swayze felt that “Dirty Dancing” worked because its story and emotional elements came together organically, rather than because it was designed to become a continuing franchise. He was concerned that repeatedly returning to the same characters could diminish what made the first film distinctive.

Lisa Niemi, Swayze’s widow, later offered a similar explanation for his position. She said that he believed the original ending was already right and that he was not interested in compromising his standards simply for the money. That perspective has remained part of the conversation around the franchise, particularly as Jennifer Grey prepares to return to the world of “Dirty Dancing” without Swayze.

The original picture has continued to grow in stature long after its theatrical run. Its soundtrack became a major commercial success, while the movie itself eventually earned a place in the National Film Registry in 2024 for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. Its legacy has also expanded through television, stage productions, “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights,” and a forthcoming sequel starring Grey.

On his 43rd birthday, here is a respectful look back at his notable relationships.

Shannon Woodward (2008–2011)

Before skyrocketing to international fame in The Social Network and The Amazing Spider-Man, Garfield dated Westworld and Raising Hope actress Shannon Woodward for three years. The couple kept a low profile in Los Angeles and London before quietly parting ways in 2011.

Emma Stone (2011–2015)

One of Hollywood’s most beloved power couples of the 2010s, Garfield and Oscar winner Emma Stone fell in love while co-starring as Peter Parker and Gwen Stacy in The Amazing Spider-Man. Their genuine warmth, playful red-carpet interviews, and shared humor made them instant fan favorites. Though they officially ended their four-year relationship in 2015, the pair have maintained a deep, supportive friendship, frequently praising each other in interviews as lifelong friends.

High-Profile Flings and Low-Key Romances (2018–2024)

Following his split with Stone, Garfield spent several years focused on stage and film work, while occasionally being linked to notable figures. He had brief romances with singer Rita Ora in late 2018 and model Alyssa Miller, with whom he attended the 2022 SAG Awards before parting ways amicably. In early 2024, Garfield was briefly spotted alongside Oxford-educated scholar Dr. Kate Tomas.

Monica Barbaro (2025–Present)

Garfield found a steady romantic connection with Top Gun: Maverick and A Complete Unknown star Monica Barbaro. First linked in early 2025, the low-key couple made their first official public appearance together holding hands at the 2025 Wimbledon Tennis Championships. Proving their relationship is still going strong, the pair returned to Wimbledon together, further confirming their sweet bond.

Now, however, the duo has offered a more hopeful update on the possibility of returning to the series.

The Creators Already Have Season 4 Material

Cusack revealed that the pair had already begun developing material for a potential fourth season before deciding to walk away. The scripts are not necessarily finished episodes ready for production, but enough work exists that the creators could revisit it if they eventually decide to bring the series back.

“We had scripts ready for season four, even if it was draft-y,” Cusack explained. He added that, if he and Hadel eventually feel like making “Smiling Friends” again, they could return to that material and determine whether it is worth developing or whether they would rather start over.

When asked to put a number on the likelihood of more episodes, Hadel initially suggested that the chances were somewhere around 25% or 30%. His answer quickly became less definitive, however, as he acknowledged that his feelings about the possibility can change considerably.

“Some days, it’s 60. Some days, it’s 80. Some days, it’s 20,” Hadel said. “It really does change day to day. But it’s not zero.”

There is no confirmed Season 4 in production, but the possibility of a return remains open. For now, “Smiling Friends” has ended with its third part, while the creators have left themselves the option of revisiting the material they already developed if they eventually decide the time is right.

To mark her special day, here is a retrospective look at seven of Demi Lovato’s most iconic and memorable on-screen roles.

1. Mitchie Torres – Camp Rock (2008) & Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam (2010)

The role that catapulted Lovato into international superstardom, Mitchie Torres remains a beloved piece of late-2000s pop culture. Playing an aspiring singer-songwriter navigating summer camp drama and romance alongside the Jonas Brothers, Lovato showcased her powerhouse vocals with instant classics like “This Is Me” and “Gotta Find You.”

2. Sonny Munroe – Sonny with a Chance (2009–2011)

Anchoring her own Disney Channel sitcom, Lovato proved her sharp comedic chops as Sonny Munroe, a small-town Midwestern teenager recruited to join the ensemble cast of a popular sketch comedy show. Lovato’s energetic physical comedy and charismatic delivery carried the series across two successful seasons.

3. Katiana Lindsdóttir – Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (2020)

In Will Ferrell’s hit Netflix comedy, Lovato delivered a memorable supporting performance as Katiana, Iceland’s pitch-perfect, favorite pop star. Though Katiana meets a hilariously absurd fate early in the film, her recurring ghostly appearances and belting vocals on “Double Trouble” provided one of the movie’s best running gags.

4. Princess Rosalinda / Rosie – Princess Protection Program (2009)

Co-starring alongside her real-life friend Selena Gomez, Lovato played Princess Rosalinda, a royal forced into hiding in rural Louisiana under the care of a covert agency. The Disney Channel Original Movie was a massive ratings smash, highlighting the charming dynamic between the two teen icons.

5. Dani – Glee (2013–2014)

Joining the fifth season of Fox’s hit musical series, Lovato stepped into the recurring role of Dani, a struggling New York artist and guitarist who becomes Santana Lopez’s (Naya Rivera) love interest. Her acoustic duets—including a memorable cover of The Beatles’ “Here Comes the Sun”—stand out as series highlights.

6. Jenny – Will & Grace (2020)

In the final season of NBC’s iconic sitcom reboot, Lovato showcased her comedy maturity by guest-starring as Jenny, a guarded, surrogate mother carrying a child for Will Truman (Eric McCormack). Her sharp rapport with the legendary ensemble cast highlighted her growth as a comedic actor.

7. Smurfette – Smurfs: The Lost Village (2017)

Lending her recognizable voice to Sony’s animated reboot, Lovato took over the lead voice role of Smurfette. Lovato injected warmth, humor, and determination into the beloved blue character as she set off on a journey of self-discovery through the Forbidden Forest.

‘The Odyssey’ Continues Its Record-Breaking Run

Released in theaters on July 17, “The Odyssey” brings Homer’s ancient Greek epic to the big screen through Nolan’s large-scale interpretation. The story follows Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, as he attempts to make his way home to Ithaca following the Trojan War, encountering mythical creatures and supernatural forces along the way.

The film features an ensemble cast that includes Tom Holland as Telemachus, Anne Hathaway as Penelope, Robert Pattinson as Antinous, Zendaya as Athena, Lupita Nyong’o in dual roles as Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra, and Charlize Theron as Calypso. The cast also includes Samantha Morton, Jon Bernthal, John Leguizamo, Himesh Patel, Elliot Page and Benny Safdie.

Nolan approached the project as a grounded interpretation of Greek mythology, drawing from several translations of Homer’s poem as well as pictures such as “Andrei Rublev” and “Ran.” The production had an estimated $250 million budget and was filmed across several countries, including Morocco, Greece, Italy, Iceland and Scotland.

With its latest box office milestone, “The Odyssey” has also become Nolan’s highest-grossing movie and the second-highest-grossing movie released in 2026 so far.

Here is a retrospective look at 10 roles that define her sensational career.

Dr. Louise Banks – Arrival (2016)

In Denis Villeneuve’s cerebral sci-fi masterpiece, Adams delivers a career-defining performance as a grief-stricken linguist recruited by the military to communicate with mysterious alien visitors. Anchoring the film’s profound reflections on time, loss, and connection, Adams provides the emotional core that elevates the movie into an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Giselle – Enchanted (2007)

The role that catapulted Adams to global stardom, Enchanted features her as an animated fairy-tale princess thrust into the harsh reality of modern-day New York City. Adams infuses Giselle with infectious optimism, soaring vocal performances, and earnest comedy.

Sydney Prosser / Lady Edith Greensly – American Hustle (2013)

Teaming up with director David O. Russell, Adams earned a Golden Globe Award and an Oscar nomination for her magnetic turn as a seductive, ambitious con artist. Navigating complex loyalties and a captivating British alter-ego, Adams commands every scene alongside Christian Bale and Bradley Cooper.

Ashley Johnsten – Junebug (2005)

Adams’ breakout dramatic role came in this intimate indie drama, earning her a first Academy Award nomination. Playing a talkative, deeply sweet pregnant woman in North Carolina, Adams brought heartbreaking warmth and innocence to a role that officially launched her Hollywood career.

Charlene Fleming – The Fighter (2010)

Breaking away from her naive character tropes, Adams delivered a tough, fiery performance as a no-nonsense Boston bartender dating boxer Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg). Her fierce presence and sharp dialogue earned her a third Supporting Actress Oscar nomination.

Sister James – Doubt (2008)

Sharing the screen with titans Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman, Adams held her own as a trusting, conflicted young Catholic school teacher. Her nuanced portrayal of shattered innocence earned her a second Academy Award nomination.

Peggy Dodd – The Master (2012)

In Paul Thomas Anderson’s psychological drama, Adams plays the fiercely controlling, steel-willed wife of a charismatic cult leader (Philip Seymour Hoffman). Quietly calculating and imposing behind a serene facade, Adams earned her fourth Oscar nomination.

Camille Preaker – Sharp Objects (2018)

In HBO’s haunting limited series adaptation of Gillian Flynn’s novel, Adams gives an unvarnished, harrowing performance as a traumatized, alcohol-dependent reporter returning to her hometown to cover a series of murders.

Margaret Keane – Big Eyes (2014)

In Tim Burton’s biopic, Adams won a Golden Globe for portraying the real-life painter whose scheming husband falsely claimed credit for her iconic “big-eyed” artwork. Adams captures Margaret’s quiet resilience and ultimate empowerment with subtle grace.

Julie Powell – Julie & Julia (2009)

In Nora Ephron’s charming biographical comedy-drama, Adams plays an uninspired New York writer who embarks on a year-long quest to cook all 524 recipes in Julia Child’s cookbook. Re-teaming with Meryl Streep, Adams anchors the modern half of the film with relatable warmth and humor.

Jaafar Jackson Wants the Sequel to Explore Michael Jackson’s Point of View

Jaafar does not have control over how the sequel will ultimately handle Jackson’s later years, and the screenplay is still being developed. Still, he made clear that he would like the next picture to move beyond the way Jackson’s story has traditionally been presented through the accounts and interpretations of other people.

“I think the second film will give even more insight from his point of view, because at the end of the day, [the allegations] are always from someone else’s,” Jaafar told GQ.

The subject is significant because the first “Michael” does not cover the allegations that emerged later in Jackson’s life. The production originally included material dealing with that period, but those elements were ultimately removed after a legal settlement affecting what could be depicted. The finished title instead concludes with Jackson embarking on the Bad World Tour.

For Jaafar, the absence of Jackson’s perspective remains an important issue. “It’s someone else’s story. It’s someone else’s idea of what it is, and it’s mainly driven by an agenda,” he said.

Jaafar also emphasized why he believes that perspective matters as the story moves forward. “And that’s really the issue we’ve been having as a family – not having Michael’s voice being heard. I think that’s very, very important, especially in the late years.” The project is expected to arrive in late 2027 or early 2028.

Why It Was Originally Overlooked

• Reboot Fatigue: Arriving a mere five years after Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man 3, audiences in 2012 were initially resistant to a new origin story. The cultural shadow of Tobey Maguire’s nostalgic era proved difficult to step out from under.
• Studio Meddling: Sony’s rush to build an expanded cinematic universe bogged down 2014’s The Amazing Spider-Man 2 with excessive world-building, subplots, and villain setups that diluted the core character drama.
• The “Too Cool” Misconception: Critics initially complained that Garfield was “too handsome” or “too cool” to play dorky Peter Parker. This overlooked how Garfield actually portrayed modern teenage isolation—hiding behind a skateboard, nervous stutters, and defensive sarcasm.

Why His Performance Was Secretly Brilliant

While Maguire excelled as Peter Parker, Garfield was the first live-action actor to nail Spider-Man’s rapid-fire, taunting comic-book banter. His physical quips, playful mockery of criminals, and kinetic suit movement felt pulled directly off the comic page.

The natural, unscripted intimacy between Garfield and Emma Stone’s Gwen Stacy gave both films their beating heart. Their banter felt authentic, joyful, and deeply romantic, elevating the narrative far above standard superhero fare.

Garfield never shied away from Peter’s tragic weight. From his agonizing, tear-streaked search for Uncle Ben’s killer to the devastating, quiet despair of failing to save Gwen Stacy at the clock tower, Garfield delivered some of the most emotionally raw moments in comic book movie history.

Garfield brought a soulfulness to Peter Parker that stood the test of time, proving that even amidst studio turbulence, a great actor’s love for a character always shines through.

Today, as Lovato stands firmly in a new chapter of stability, creative freedom, and deep personal happiness, her journey serves as one of the most powerful stories of resilience in modern pop culture.

The Weight of Child Stardom and Public Battles

Rising to fame during the pressure-cooker era of 2000s teen stardom, Lovato was thrust into global spotlights while silently coping with severe anxiety, bipolar disorder, and disordered eating. By her late teens, substance abuse began to take a toll, leading to multiple rehab stays and ongoing media scrutiny.

In 2018, after six years of sobriety, Lovato suffered a life-threatening drug overdose that resulted in multiple strokes, a heart attack, and brain damage. She laid raw, unvarnished truth before the world in her critically acclaimed 2021 docuseries, Demi Lovato: Dancing with the Devil, giving fans an honest look at the harrowing reality of addiction and trauma.

“I don’t regret anything,” Lovato reflected on her survival. “Everything had to happen in order for me to learn the lessons that I learned. It was a painful journey, but I’m so proud of the person that I am today.”

Redefining Recovery and Setting Boundaries

A crucial turning point in Lovato’s healing journey came when she shed the rigid expectations of the entertainment industry. Stepping away from toxic dieting culture, intense touring schedules, and external pressures, she shifted her focus to holistic wellness, therapy, and authentic self-care.

In recent years, Lovato has channeled her experiences into advocacy:

• Mental Health Awareness: Consistently raising funds and awareness for mental health services and addiction treatment resources.
• Advocating for Young Artists: Executive producing and co-directing the documentary Child Star (2024) to shed light on the psychological impacts of early fame.

A Peaceful New Chapter

Today, Lovato is experiencing a period of profound stability and bliss. In May 2025, she tied the knot with her collaborator and fellow musician Jordan “Jutes” Lutes in an intimate, fairytale California ceremony. The couple’s grounded, supportive relationship has provided a steady foundation for Lovato’s personal life.

What to Know About ‘Yellowjackets’ Season 4

Created by Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson, “Yellowjackets” follows a high school girls’ soccer team whose flight crashes in the wilderness in 1996. The survivors spend 19 months stranded, while the title also tracks their lives 25 years later and the lasting effects of what happened during their time in the wilderness.

The show’s structure has been central to its story from the beginning. By moving between the teenagers’ struggle to survive and the adult survivors’ lives decades later, the hit has explored how the events of the crash continue to shape the characters. The series has also used its mystery-driven narrative to gradually reveal what happened during those missing months.

The program debuted in November 2021 before returning for a second season in March 2023. Its third season arrived in February 2025, following production delays connected to the 2023 Hollywood labor disputes. The fourth season is now set to bring the story to its planned conclusion.

“Yellowjackets” has also established itself as one of Showtime’s notable recent successes. The series has earned 10 Primetime Emmy nominations, along with recognition from the Writers Guild of America, Television Critics Association, Peabody Awards and Critics’ Choice Awards. Its third season also recorded the hit’s highest viewership to date.

The final season has been in production since March. Its arrival on Nov. 20 will therefore begin the show’s last stretch after three seasons centered on survival, trauma and the complicated bond between the younger and older versions of its characters.

1. Jonathan Larson – Tick, Tick… Boom! (2021)

Directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, this biographical musical saw Garfield transform into Rent creator Jonathan Larson during a desperate race against time to create a theatrical masterpiece before turning 30. Learning to sing and play piano specifically for the role, Garfield delivered a breathless, joyous, and heartbreaking performance that earned him a Golden Globe Award and his second Oscar nomination for Best Actor.

2. Eduardo Saverin – The Social Network (2010)

In David Fincher’s social media origin story, Garfield delivered the tragic, emotional spine of the film as Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin. His trajectory from loyal best friend to betrayed outsider culminated in one of the most famous monologues of 2010s cinema (“You better lawyer up, asshole”), earning him widespread critical acclaim and launching him onto Hollywood’s A-list.

3. Desmond Doss – Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

In Mel Gibson’s WWII biographical drama, Garfield played Desmond Doss, a real-life Seventh-day Adventist who served as a combat medic without ever carrying a weapon. Garfield infused the role with conviction, quiet humility, and spiritual resolve, earning his very first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

4. Father Sebastião Rodrigues – Silence (2016)

In Martin Scorsese’s grueling theological epic, Garfield underwent a profound physical and mental transformation to portray a 17th-century Portuguese Jesuit priest searching for his missing mentor in feudal Japan. Garfield spent months in silent prayer retreats to prepare, resulting in a deeply contemplative performance about faith, doubt, and sacrifice.

5. Tobias Durand – We Live in Time (2024)

Starring opposite Florence Pugh, Garfield brought tender intimacy to John Crowley’s non-linear romantic drama. Playing an unpretentious man navigating an unexpected romance, family life, and tragic illness alongside his chef partner, Garfield demonstrated his unmatched talent for quiet, grounded heartbreak.

6. Prior Walter – Angels in America (Broadway/National Theatre, 2017–2018)

Taking on Tony Kushner’s legendary stage masterpiece, Garfield gave a tour-de-force performance as Prior Walter, a gay man living with AIDS in 1980s New York who receives visions from an angel. Garfield’s incandescent stage presence earned him the Tony Award for Best Lead Actor in a Play.

7. Jack Burridge – Boy A (2007)

In his breakout feature performance, a young Garfield played a young man re-entering society under a new identity after serving time for a horrific childhood crime. His fragile, nervous vulnerability earned him a BAFTA Television Award for Best Actor, signalling the arrival of a major dramatic talent.

8. Sam – Under the Silver Lake (2018)

David Robert Mitchell’s surreal neo-noir comedy-mystery allowed Garfield to embrace his deadpan, unhinged side. Playing a conspiracy-obsessed slacker wandering through a fever-dream version of Los Angeles to find a missing neighbor, Garfield anchored the cult film with hilarious, paranoid energy.

9. Detective Jeb Pyre – Under the Banner of Heaven (2022)

In Dustin Lance Black’s true-crime limited series, Garfield starred as a devout Mormon detective tasked with investigating a brutal murder within an fundamentalist sect. Garfield’s quiet, agonizing portrayal of a man experiencing a crisis of faith earned him his first Primetime Emmy nomination.

10. Peter Parker / Spider-Man – Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

Reprising his web-slinging role alongside Tobey Maguire and Tom Holland, Garfield brought tragic depth, hyperactive wit, and emotional closure to his version of Peter Parker. His redemption scene catching Zendaya’s MJ remains one of the most emotional moments in modern superhero cinema.

Why Did Niu Lai Become a Viral Phenomenon?

The story behind “Niu Lai” starts with a movie that seemed destined to disappear. It opened in China on August 5, with almost no conventional promotion. There was no trailer campaign or major publicity tour, and the film’s main advertisement was an ink-wash-style poster. Some theaters reportedly did not even receive proper promotional artwork and had to create their own. The lack of visibility was reflected at the box office, where the production earned only ¥7,169 from 236 viewers during its first nine days.

Then viewers began posting about the picture online, particularly its unconventional animation and character designs. The visuals became the subject of widespread mockery on Chinese social media, but the jokes generated something far more valuable than negative attention: curiosity. As more people encountered screenshots and clips, “Niu Lai” became a flick that audiences wanted to see for themselves. What had initially been a theatrical failure suddenly had an audience.

The change was dramatic. After the social media attention intensified, “Niu Lai” recorded more than ¥100,000 in presales, including ¥46,000 on August 15. Its daily screenings jumped from just 21 on August 14 to 359 the following day. The film eventually reached ¥31.54 million at the box office, placing it among the ten highest-grossing animated titles in China in 2026. The movie’s distributor had originally reduced its theatrical presence to just four theaters, making the subsequent turnaround even more striking.

There is a real plot underneath the viral conversation. “Niu Lai” follows a timid young calf who lives under the protection of his mother and herd. After following a skylark, he enters an extended dream where he encounters a mysterious serpent and learns that the world cannot always keep him safe.

The movie’s unusual production history has also helped fuel interest. Xin Yumeng and Sun Lifang, a son-and-mother team, were the picture’s director, writer, soundtrack creators and only voice performers. Xin was making his first film, while Sun taught herself screenwriting.

Their production company had originally been an interior design and decoration business before becoming a media company, and the pair worked on the project for more than five years. Because professional equipment was too expensive, they used second-hand hardware purchased online.

“Niu Lai” is now scheduled to reach Singapore on September 1, extending the story of a movie that began with almost no attention and unexpectedly became one of China’s most talked-about animated films of the year.

Lisa Kudrow Recalls the Comments That Shaped Her Early Career

Before “Friends” made her internationally famous, Kudrow was building her comedy career through improv and television roles. She had already worked with “The Groundlings” and appeared as Ursula Buffay on “Mad About You,” a character that eventually helped connect her to the world of “Friends.”

The performer remembers that the sitcom landscape had a fairly specific idea of what its female stars were supposed to look like. “I didn’t look like women who were getting cast as series regulars on sitcoms,” she recalled, describing an environment where actresses were expected to be conventionally attractive and appealing.

The feedback she received could be considerably more direct. “I was told, ‘It’s very hard because you’re not gorgeous, and they want gorgeous,’” Kudrow recalled. Rather than describing the comment as something she could not understand, she responded to it with a matter-of-fact attitude: “And I’m like, ‘Okay’… I don’t think that’s ridiculous. I got it.”

Her experience eventually led to one of television’s most enduring comedy performances. The A-lister joined “Friends” as Phoebe Buffay, the eccentric musician and masseuse whose unusual worldview became one of the show’s defining sources of humor. She appeared in all 236 episodes and won a Primetime Emmy Award for the role.

Kudrow also made clear that she never viewed being “cute” as the goal she was chasing. “I’m not ‘cute.’ And God, I didn’t want to be cute.” For an actress who would go on to spend a decade playing one of the most beloved sitcom characters of her generation, that distinction became an especially memorable part of her story.

Accidental Beginnings: From Backstage Chase to the Washington Monument

Stamos’s connection to the iconic California band began long before he became a household name. Having attended his very first concert at age 13 to see The Beach Boys, a young Stamos was already a dedicated fan.

His entry into the band’s inner circle arrived in the early 1980s while starring as Blackie Parrish on General Hospital. Attending a Beach Boys show where a friend was playing guitar, Stamos was spotted by a crowd of screaming teenage fans who chased him backstage. Seeing the commotion, co-founder Mike Love asked who the young actor was. Upon hearing Stamos had a massive teenage following, Love famously replied, “Get him onstage!”

Stamos jumped behind the drum kit to jam on “Barbara Ann,” laying the groundwork for a lifelong brotherhood. On July 4, 1985, Stamos made his official full concert debut with the band before nearly one million people at the Washington Monument.

Playing Steel Drums in ‘Kokomo’ and MTV Stardom

By 1988, Stamos was a central figure in the band’s modern resurgence. When The Beach Boys recorded “Kokomo” for the soundtrack to the film Cocktail, Stamos played congas and steel drums in the iconic MTV music video filmed at Walt Disney World. His charismatic presence helped bridge the gap between classic ’60s surf rock and a new generation of younger music fans.

Bringing The Beach Boys to ‘Full House’

Stamos used his growing star power on ABC’s Full House to champion the band’s legacy, orchestrating appearances for the group across three separate episodes. The most famous crossover came in the 1988 episode “Beach Boy Bingo,” where the full band visited the Tanner household.

Seasons later, Stamos’s character, Uncle Jesse, performed a cover of The Beach Boys’ 1970 track “Forever” as a wedding vow to Aunt Becky. The cover proved so popular with TV viewers that The Beach Boys re-recorded the track with Stamos on lead vocals for their 1992 album Summer in Paradise.

Four Decades of Harmonies

Beyond touring as a guest drummer, guitarist, and vocalist for over 40 years, Stamos worked behind the scenes to preserve the band’s history, executive producing the Emmy-nominated 2000 TV miniseries The Beach Boys: An American Family.

Four decades after first stepping onto the stage, Stamos continues to join the group for select tour dates, proving that his love for “heart music” is as strong as ever.

Here is a retrospective look at 10 of Matthew Perry’s most memorable roles across film, television, and video games.

1. Chandler Bing – Friends (1994–2004)

The quintessential sarcastic modern romantic, Chandler Bing was the emotional heart and primary joke-engine of television’s biggest sitcom. Perry injected his own conversational rhythm into the character, transforming Chandler from a neurotic office worker into one of the most beloved figures in pop-culture history.

2. Matt Albie – Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (2006–2007)

Following the conclusion of Friends, Perry teamed up with writer Aaron Sorkin for this backstage dramedy about a late-night sketch comedy show. As brilliant, pill-popping head writer Matt Albie, Perry delivered fast-paced, walk-and-talk dialogue with sharp intelligence, proving his capability as a dramatic lead.

3. Nicholas “Oz” Oseransky – The Whole Nine Yards (2000)

Starring opposite Bruce Willis, Perry played a mild-mannered Montreal dentist who discovers his new neighbor is a notorious mob hitman. Perry’s frantic physical slapstick—running into glass doors, jumping over furniture, and screaming in sheer panic—turned the dark comedy into a box-office hit.

4. Joe Quincy – The West Wing (2003)

In a brief but powerful guest arc on Aaron Sorkin’s political drama, Perry played Joe Quincy, an honest Republican attorney working in a Democratic White House who uncovers a major scandal involving the Vice President. Perry’s subtle, grounded performance earned him two Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series.

5. Ron Clark – The Ron Clark Story (2006)

In this inspirational TNT biopic, Perry portrayed a real-life energetic small-town educator who moves to Harlem to teach a class of disadvantaged students. Stripping away his usual sarcastic persona, Perry’s warm, dedicated performance earned him nominations for a Golden Globe, a SAG Award, and a Primetime Emmy for Lead Actor.

6. Alex Whitman – Fools Rush In (1997)

Starring opposite Salma Hayek, Perry played a straight-laced Manhattan real estate executive who enters a whirlwind marriage following a one-night stand in Las Vegas. Perry frequently cited this charming, culture-clash romantic comedy as one of his favorite filming experiences of his career.

7. Ryan King – Go On (2012–2013)

In this short-lived NBC comedy, Perry gave a tender, critically praised performance as Ryan King, an irreverent sports talk radio host forced to join a grief support group following the death of his wife. The role allowed Perry to balance his trademark cynical humor with authentic explorations of loss and emotional healing.

8. Benny – Fallout: New Vegas (2010)

A passionate fan of the video game franchise, Perry lent his voice to the iconic antagonist Benny in the critically acclaimed RPG Fallout: New Vegas. Wearing a checkered suit and speaking in 1950s Vegas slang, Perry’s smooth-talking, backstabbing casino owner became an instant fan-favorite character in gaming culture.

9. Mike O’Donnell (Adult) – 17 Again (2009)

Sharing a role with Zac Efron, Perry played a washed-up, thirty-something father who gets a miraculous chance to transform back into his 17-year-old self to fix his life. Perry provided the film with its grounded emotional weight, capturing the regret and love of a father trying to reconnect with his family.

10. Oscar Madison – The Odd Couple (2015–2017)

Perry co-developed, executive produced, and starred in this modern reboot of Neil Simon’s classic comedy. Playing the messy, sportscaster slob Oscar Madison opposite Thomas Lennon’s obsessive Felix Unger, Perry paid tribute to his sitcom roots while bringing fresh, modern energy to an iconic theater role.

‘Scary Movie 6’ Brings the Franchise Back to Streaming

Directed by Michael Tiddes, the title reunites Marlon Wayans and Shawn Wayans with Anna Faris and Regina Hall. The four actors return to roles they first played in the earlier installments, with the new story bringing their characters back together as another masked killer emerges.

The movie premiered in Los Angeles on June 3 before opening nationwide on June 5. Its theatrical run also proved commercially successful, with the picture earning $231.4 million worldwide against a reported $30 million production budget. That performance makes it the second-highest-grossing entry in the franchise.

The sixth part also represents a significant return for the Wayans family. Marlon, Shawn and Keenen Ivory Wayans were involved with the first two films before leaving the franchise, and they now come back as writers and producers.

The new installment continues the franchise’s tradition of spoofing recognizable horror movies and contemporary pop culture. Its story centers on Cindy Campbell and her returning friends as they confront the same masked killer associated with the original hit, while a new generation of characters becomes caught up in the chaos.

Matthew Perry Chose to Leave the Emmy Race After a Submission Error

By 2000, “Friends” was already an established television phenomenon. The series had premiered in 1994 and centered on Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler and Ross, with the six actors sharing the spotlight throughout its run. The ensemble structure was important enough that the cast made efforts to prevent any one performer from becoming the show’s sole focus.

According to IMDb trivia, that philosophy extended to awards season. Rather than separately positioning themselves as lead performers, the cast members entered themselves in the same acting categories. The arrangement reflected the hit’s central idea that its six characters worked collectively, rather than having a single star carry the title.

In 2000, however, Perry’s name was mistakenly submitted for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. The error put him in a category that did not match the approach the “Friends” cast had established for awards consideration. Once Perry learned what had happened, he asked his publicist to contact the Television Academy and withdraw his name.

There was a complication. By that point, Emmy ballots had already been sent out, meaning the Academy could not simply move Perry’s submission into the supporting category. So, the actor chose to remain out of the competition altogether that year. The decision meant that Perry gave up the opportunity to compete individually rather than break with the arrangement he shared with his co-stars.

1. Sandy Cohen – The O.C. (2003–2007) There is no celebrating Peter Gallagher without acknowledging the gold standard of modern television fathers. As Sandy Cohen, the empathetic public defender with a heart of gold, a passion for surfing, and legendary bagel-making skills, Gallagher anchored Fox’s teen drama with genuine moral warmth and fatherly wisdom, cementing his status as an all-time fan favorite.

2. Peter Callaghan – While You Were Sleeping (1995) In Jon Turteltaub’s classic romantic comedy, Gallagher played Peter Callaghan, the dashing Chicago businessman whose unexpected coma leads Lucy (Sandra Bullock) to be mistaken for his fiancée. Gallagher executed the ultimate balancing act—playing a suave, slightly self-absorbed sleeping prince while allowing Bullock and Bill Pullman’s romance to blossom around him.

3. Buddy Kane – American Beauty (1999) In Sam Mendes’ Oscar-winning satire, Gallagher turned in a scene-stealing performance as Buddy Kane, the self-proclaimed “Real Estate King” of suburban California. Gallagher brought slick confidence, ruthless ambition, and sharp dark humor to his affair with Carolyn Burnham (Annette Bening).

4. John Mullany – S**, Lies, and Videotape (1989) Gallagher starred alongside James Spader and Andie MacDowell in Steven Soderbergh’s Palme d’Or-winning indie masterpiece. Playing John Mullany, a slick, unfaithful lawyer embroiled in a tangled web of deceit, Gallagher delivered a subtle, chilling portrayal of marital betrayal that helped launch the modern American independent film movement.

5. Mitch Clarke – Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (2020–2021) Displaying his immense dramatic vulnerability and musical background, Gallagher played Mitch Clarke, a father suffering from progressive supranuclear palsy who communicates with his daughter (Jane Levy) through musical “heart songs.” His tender, heartbreaking performance earned widespread critical acclaim and gave the series its emotional core.

6. Arthur Campbell – Covert Affairs (2010–2014) For five seasons on the USA Network, Gallagher brought commanding authority and gravitas to the role of Arthur Campbell, the Director of the CIA’s Clandestine Service. Navigating geopolitical intrigue and marital dynamics alongside co-star Kari Matchett, Gallagher proved to be the ultimate steady hand in high-stakes espionage television.

7. Larry Levy – The Player (1992) In Robert Altman’s razor-sharp Hollywood satire, Gallagher played Larry Levy, a ruthless, ambitious studio executive plotting to usurp Tim Robbins’ lead character. Gallagher leaned into the absurdity of studio politics with deadpan precision, creating a memorable portrait of Hollywood ambition.

8. Dr. David Hamilton – Grey’s Anatomy (2021–2022) Joining the long-running medical drama during its 18th season, Gallagher played Dr. David Hamilton, a brilliant Minnesota neurosurgeon attempting to perform a groundbreaking Parkinson’s trial alongside Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo). Gallagher brought refined elegance and urgent vulnerability to the medical storyline.

Uncle Jesse Katsopolis – Full House (1987–1995) and Fuller House (2016–2020)

There is no defining John Stamos without the motorcycle-riding, Elvis-obsessed, rock-and-roll uncle who stole America’s heart. As Jesse Katsopolis, Stamos brought an ideal blend of swagger, comic timing, and genuine paternal warmth to the Tanner family household. His signature catchphrase, “Have mercy,” and hit musical moments with his band Jesse and the Rippers remain defining pieces of 1990s pop culture.

Dr. Tony Gates – ER (2005–2009)

Stamos proved his dramatic chops when he joined NBC’s long-running medical drama ER as Dr. Tony Gates. A former Gulf War veteran paramedic turned paramedic-turned-ER resident, Gates was a complex, flirtatious, yet deeply devoted doctor navigating intense trauma and personal turmoil. Stamos brought a grounded intensity to the ensemble cast during the show’s final seasons.

Blackie Parrish – General Hospital (1982–1984)

Before he was a sitcom superstar, an 18-year-old Stamos launched his television career on the iconic daytime soap opera General Hospital. Playing street-smart foster kid Blackie Parrish, Stamos became an overnight teenage heartthrob, earning a Daytime Emmy Award nomination and setting the trajectory for his long career.

Dr. Nicky Angevine – YOU (2018–2019)

Showcasing his ability to embrace darker, morally ambiguous roles, Stamos joined Netflix’s psychological thriller YOU as Dr. Nicky Angevine. Playing an unconventional, weed-smoking therapist who treats Beck (Elizabeth Lail) and unwittingly counsels serial killer Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley), Stamos brought sharp charisma to a storyline that ultimately takes a dark turn when Joe frames him for murder.

Coach Marvyn Korn – Big Shot (2021–2023)

In Disney+’s sports comedy-drama Big Shot, Stamos took center stage as Marvyn Korn, a temperamental, high-profile college basketball coach who gets ousted from the NCAA and forced to take a job teaching at an all-girls private high school. Stamos delivered a warm, layered performance, charting Korn’s evolution from a rigid perfectionist into a supportive mentor.

Jimmy Martino – Grandfathered (2015–2016)

Leading Fox’s single-camera comedy Grandfathered, Stamos played Jimmy Martino, a suave, perpetual bachelor and successful restaurant owner whose life is turned upside down when he discovers he is not only a father, but also a grandfather. Stamos earned a People’s Choice Award for his winning turn as a man reluctantly discovering the joys of family life.

Dr. Brock Holt – Scream Queens (2016)

Joining Ryan Murphy’s campy horror-comedy anthology series for its second season, Stamos starred as Dr. Brock Holt, a brilliant, secretive head surgeon with a transplanted hand that has a murderous mind of its own. Stamos leaned heavily into the show’s dark satire, matching the fast-paced, absurd comedic tone of the series effortlessly.

Dr. Carl Howell – Glee (2010–2011)

Stamos showcased his genuine musical talents during a memorable guest arc on Glee as Dr. Carl Howell, a charming dentist who dates guidance counselor Emma Pillsbury (Jayma Mays). Performing showstoppers like “Hot Phatie” and leading a dream sequence cover of The Rocky Horror Picture Show‘s “Whatever Happened to Saturday Night?”, Stamos reminded audiences of his stage roots.