Internet users think Nevaeh Akira is showing OUT amid her catching Blueface stuffing condoms in his jacket before going out.

RELATED: In Bliss! Nevaeh Akira Shares Precious Clip Of Blueface Cradling Her Growing Baby Bump (VIDEO)

Nevaeh Akira Catches Blueface Stuffing Condoms In His Jacket Before Going Out

On Sunday, March 22, Blueface took to Twitch to livestream for his followers. During the almost-four-hour stream, Blueface appeared to be getting ready to go out for a club appearance. Furthermore, while he and Akira were standing in his closet, Blue tried on a jacket and proceeded to show viewers its two inside pockets. In one pocket, he pulled out a box of condoms, and smiled slyly at the camera. Akira apparently noticed his demeanor and walked over to apparently catch the box.

Internet Users Think Nevaeh Akira Is Showing OUT

Subsequently, internet users now believe Nevaeh Akira has been showing out a bit since catching Blueface with his box of condoms. On Sunday, March 22, she took to Instagram to share a clip of herself twerking while rocking a bikini.

Additionally, a few hours later, Akira shared a carousel of pics of herself posing in a mirror, showing off her assets.

Click here to see the NSFW photos.

Here’s What Was Going On With Nevaeh Akira & Blueface Before She Caught Him Stuffing Condoms In His Jacket

As The Shade Room previously reported, in February, Blueface and Nevaeh Akira revealed they were expecting a baby after taking a pregnancy test during a livestream.

RELATED: New Addition! Karlissa Saffold Harvey Reacts To Blueface & Nevaeh Akira’s Apparent Pregnancy Announcement

Subsequently, Akira shared how “overly in love” she is with Blueface and that she is excited for her son to have a younger sibling, per The Shade Room. Since then, Jaidyn Alexis, the mother of Blueface’s oldest children, has reacted to the news, and Blue and Akira have shared their baby’s gender and name. Most recently, Akira left the internet puzzled when she shared a message about wanting “peace over chaos.”

RELATED: Nevaeh Akira’s Message About “Peace Over Chaos” Amid Her Pregnancy With Blueface Has Some Folks Scratchin’ Their Heads (PHOTO)

“Do not despair. The calvary is coming.” Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band will be back on the road in 2026, touring across the United States for 20 shows on the “Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour”. The Boss and his band will be traveling across 19 arenas in celebration and defense of American democracy, freedom and the American dream, starting in Minneapolis, MN and ending in Washington, DC. The last time they took the stage together was in July 2025 in Milan, Italy.

Those who are long-time members and followers of E-Street Nation know just how special live performances are. It’s a different energy and a sense of community at concerts. If you’re new to Springsteen, a casual fan or a die-hard Spring-Nut, here are 10 songs you NEED to see live in 2026 during the Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour. Sure, we all love sign requests and deep cuts — I mean, give me “Loose Ends”, “I Wanna Be With You” and “Iceman” any day. But in this list, I’ll give you songs that will most likely be on every setlist during the tour.

10

“Long Walk Home”

Magic (2007)

The only song from Magic on this list, “Long Walk Home” is described by Bruce as “a prayer for my country”. It illustrates how far we drifted away from American ideals during the George W. Bush presidential era and Iraq War. This very much resonates with many Americans in present time, feeling like we are so far away from what America should represent. It’s going to be a long walk home towards commonality.

“Long Walk Home” first debuted during the Seeger Sessions Band Tour (2006), but was reworked with the E-Street Band for a studio album release. It was a big hit on the Magic Tour (2007-2008), and wasn’t played frequently again until Springsteen’s Broadway run in 2017 and 2018. The track found its way back into the setlist starting in 2024 and has been consistent ever since.

9

“Ghosts”

Letter To You (2020)

“Ghosts” is the newest song on this list, released in 2020 on Letter To You. It was the second single on the album after the title track in September 2020 and was quickly described by fans at the time of the debut as a soon-to-be concert staple. In 2020, there weren’t any tours in the near future. That was until the 2023 Tour was announced. Between 2023 and 2024, “Ghosts” was played live 102 times, many of those being the set opening number.

Like many songs on Letter To You, “Ghosts” is about looking back and remembering those we’ve lost over the course of our journeys. We all have those people in our lives who helped shape us, were there for us, by our side through the highs and lows. “Ghosts” will take you through all of your emotions, cementing those memories in your mind.

8

“Out In the Street”

The River (1980)

Concert tickets are expensive these days. Like really expensive. We’re talking even thousands of dollars. For most of us, it’s a decent chunk of our paycheck that goes towards seeing our favorite artists live. So what better way to celebrate your hard-earned money going towards a good time, than jamming out to a song about…working all week, looking forward to a good time…

Since its release in 1980 on The River, “Out In The Street” has been one of the biggest E-Street hits. It’s only one of three songs on The River to have over 20 million streams on Spotify — the others being “The River” and “Hungry Heart”. Expect to hear it live in 2026, as it was heard frequently on tour in 1980-81, 1984-85, 1999-2000, 2016 and 2023.

7

“The Promised Land”

Darkness on the Edge of Town (1978)

The third most-played song in Springsteen’s entire career, “The Promised Land” has been performed over 1500 times. It’s the quintessential sound of the Darkness on the Edge of Town-era. It’s a harmonica solo, a guitar solo, and of course, a saxophone solo. This rocking jam has been touted by The Boss himself as, “one of my greatest songs”.

The reason you need to see this one live? Well, it stands for American possibility and the country that we could be. At a performance at the Light of Day Winterfest in January 2026 in Red Bank, NJ, Springsteen said, “Right now we are living through incredibly critical times. The United States, the ideals and values for which have stood for the past 250 years, is being tested like it has never been in modern times.” He dedicated “The Promised Land” to the memory of Renee Good, who was murdered in Minneapolis, MN.

6

“Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out”

Born To Run (1975)

If “The Promised Land” is the embodiment of the Darkness of the Edge of Town-era, then “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” is the entire E-Street Band-sound rolled into one. The meaning of the song is up for interpretation, as Bruce said in the Wings for Wheels: The Making of Born to Run documentary, “”I still have no idea what it means. But it’s important.”

It’s important because it symbolizes the completion of the E-Street Band. In 1975, the band added Roy Bittan (piano) and Max Weinberg (drums), both of which are still with the band today. “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” is also the reason why “Little” Steven Van Zandt is a member of the Hall of Fame band. It was Van Zandt’s idea for the horns section on the track, earning him a spot on E-Street.

5

“Racing in the Street”

Darkness on the Edge of Town (1978)

Whether it’s the original version or the “(‘78)” alternative, “Racing In The Street” is sure to make your skin crawl and give you goosebumps. As is the theme for 1970’s Springsteen, “Racing In The Street” leans into the American classic car nostalgia, with the dream of setting out on the open roads of freedom. Even if that means the pain of leaving behind your love.

Roy Bittan absolutely shines in this one. He opens up the track with a slow, delicate intro that sets up the sorrow to come. The beautiful thing about Racing in its live version, is that Bruce and the band take their time. They let all the emotions and sounds breathe, making sure the audience can feel every note.

4

“Atlantic City”

Nebraska (1982)

This one has layers to it. Yes, “Atlantic City” is the most recognizable song from Bruce’s solo album, Nebraska, but it also symbolizes a deeper meaning within the journey of Springsteen as an artist and a person. Most of the songs on Nebraska were initially intended to be recorded and played with the E Street Band. But the collection of tracks that were recorded in The Boss’ bedroom couldn’t find the same sound with the band. As a result, Nebraska and “Atlantic City” remained acoustic.

In October 2025, I spoke to Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere director Scott Cooper about choosing “Atlantic City” as the end credits song. It was the live rendition from Madison Square Garden in 2000 during the Reunion Tour. Cooper said, “The film was not tied up in a neat bow, but you get a sense that this is a man who was on the path, the journey, towards healing, both with the E Street Band as well as with his father, and it’s a man moving forward.” “Atlantic City”, live from New York, is the embodiment of Bruce’s healing, and every time you see and hear the song in concert, you’re reminded of that journey.

3

“Prove It All Night”

Darkness on the Edge of Town (1978)

If you’ve been lucky enough to see “Prove It All Night” in concert with the iconic ‘78 intro, you know that there aren’t any words to explain that feeling. Two and a half minutes of killer guitar solos by Bruce and Little Steven. But that ‘78 intro version has been hard to come by. But even without that legendary opening that originated on the Darkness on the Edge of Town Tour, “Prove It All Night” lands at number 3 on this list, and for good reason. It trails only “The Promised Land” and “Badlands” as the most played song from Darkness, just over 770 times.

I dare you to see this one on tour and not scream at the top of your lungs, “What it means to steal, to cheat, to lie, what it’s like to live and die!” It’s the perfect line about feeling alive. About breaking free from the norm and experiencing all that life has to offer.

2

“The Rising”

The Rising (2002)

At some point I’ll get around to writing a bigger, more expansive piece on this, but in the meantime, believe me when I tell you this — “The Rising” is Bruce’s most important song in his ENTIRE career. And yes, I know, that’s quite the statement when you think about “Born To Run” and “Born in the U.S.A.”. But without “The Rising”, we don’t get the past quarter of a century of Bruce and the E Street Band. It launched Bruce into the second-half of his legendary career, when it seemed like he and the band were content on settling after the Reunion Tour in 1999-2000.

“The Rising”, song and album, is known for having a deep connection to the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center. The Rising is littered with spiritual transformation and the healing of souls, both living and passed on. The title track is a story told from the point of view of a fireman ascending the floors of the twin towers into heaven. It’s a melancholic track that is equal parts sad and heartbreaking, and uplifting and galvanizing.

1

“Land of Hope and Dreams”

Wrecking Ball (2012)

If you’ve made it this far, you probably guessed that this would be number 1. After all, it’s the name of the tour for goodness sake! “Land of Hope and Dreams” was first played during The Reunion Tour, became a consistent live performance, but wasn’t officially recorded on an album until Wrecking Ball in 2012. Even with its late debut in the context of Springsteen’s career, “Land of Hope and Dreams” is Bruce’s twelfth-most played song, just over 760 times.

The inspiring song was written about America being that land of hope and dreams, still, for so many people — “Not of fear, or divisiveness, or government censorship or hatred”, Springsteen said at the 2025 New York Film Festival. The Land of Hope & Dreams American Tour 2026 will be about celebrating that America that we all love and still hold in our hearts, despite the current temperature and actions of our government.

Project Hail Mary is finally in theaters, and it’s already pulling out incredible box office numbers. Based on the Andy Weir novel of the same name, Ryan Gosling stars in the feature, playing the lead role of Dr. Ryland Grace, who’s sent into deep space to find a way to save the Earth as the sun is dimming, and along the way, he meets Rocky (James Ortiz), a rock-shaped alien whose home planet also faces a similar issue. After earning high praise from fans and critics alike, it’s no surprise that its box office performance would follow suit.

Project Hail Mary entered theaters last week, and not only has it generated a high Certified Fresh critics score of 95% and a Verified Hot Audience score of 96% on Rotten Tomatoes, but it has also earned a CinemaScore of “A” and a 4.4 rating on Letterboxd. Additionally, Project Hail Mary surpassed Weir’s previous film adaptation: in 2015, The Martian opened with $54 million. Project Hail Mary proved it could pull audiences into theaters, breaking records for those involved in the film.

Per a recent report, Project Hail Mary generated over $80 million at the box office during its opening weekend, with $33.1 million from Friday’s opening day and $27.1 million from Saturday’s screenings. This latest performance broke many box-office records, making it “the best domestic opening ever” for an Amazon MGM Studio movie and the best opening for the film’s directors, Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. However, Project Hail Mary’s opening performance failed to surpass Gosling’s $1 billion blockbuster hit, Barbie, which grossed over $162 million during its opening, but it came within touching distance of Oppenheimer‘s $82 million opening from the same weekend in 2023.

Related

Clooney or Gosling? — The Collider Movie Quiz!

It’s been over a week since the Ides of March (3/15). Today we’re pitting the stars of that film (George Clooney and Ryan Gosling) against each other.

What To Watch If You Like ‘Project Hail Mary’

At the moment, Project Hail Mary has not announced its streaming release date. If you have watched the feature and want to watch something similar, there are plenty of thrilling sci-fi films to choose from. The first is The Martian, which stars Matt Damon as Dr. Mark Watney, an astronaut who must survive on Mars after his team left him behind. It’s also based on Weir’s novels, so now is a good time to revisit his previous work.

Another movie worth watching if you like Project Hail Mary is Interstellar, directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, and Jessica Chastain. Much like Project Hail Mary, Interstellar centers around an astronaut (McConaughey) whose mission is to find a habitable planet to save humanity as they face extinction on Earth. Additionally, since the release of Project Hail Mary, moviegoers have compared Nolan’s film to the 2026 blockbuster.

Lastly, if you want to watch another film where Gosling plays an astronaut, then First Man is an excellent option. Released in 2018, Gosling plays famous astronaut Neil Armstrong as NASA prepares its mission to land on the moon. First Man, based on the 2005 book First Man: The Life of Neil A. Armstrong by James R. Hansen, made $105 million worldwide and the film earned a certified fresh critics score of 87%.

Project Hail Mary is now showing in theaters. Follow Collider for more updates.

Advertisement

Release Date

March 20, 2026

Advertisement

Runtime

156 Minutes

Director

Advertisement

Christopher Miller, Phil Lord

Writers

Drew Goddard, Andy Weir

Advertisement

Producers

Ryan Gosling, Amy Pascal, Andy Weir, Aditya Sood, Christopher Miller, Phil Lord, Rachel O’Connor

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.

CIA is officially back in business. Although it took a while — and a few showrunners — to get it off the ground, the latest FBI spin-off has been a rousing success for CBS so far, with 8.4 million viewers tuning into the premiere during its first week across television and streaming, according to Nielsen. Now, the network has rewarded it with a Season 2 renewal. FBI Special Agent Bill Goodman (Nick Gehlfuss) and CIA Agent Colin Glass (Tom Ellis) will be back and working together again for the 2026-27 television season in what marks CBS’s second quick renewal of one of its freshman series following the Yellowstone spin-off Marshals.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Release Date

February 23, 2026

Advertisement

Showrunner

Mike Weiss, Warren Leight, David Hudgins

Advertisement

• 
• 

  Nick Gehlfuss

  Advertisement

  Bill Goodman

• 
• 

  Michael Michele

  Joe Abanpour

  Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.

Nathan Fillion‘s most iconic role is that of Captain Malcolm “Mal” Reynolds on the short-lived series Firefly. Canceled after just one season, the show has become a cult classic, and fan dedication has led to the announcement of a new animated series for the franchise. The new series is set to bring back Fillion, Alan Tudyk, Morena Baccarin, Gina Torres, Adam Baldwin, Jewel Staite, Summer Glau, and Sean Maher to their roles on the Serenity. But one character will have to be recast.

In a new interview, Fillion confirmed that Shepherd “Shep” Book will be a part of the new animated series. But that does mean that they will have to find a new actor to embody Shep, as original series actor Ron Glass passed away in 2016. “We’re bringing back Shepherd Book for certain,” Fillion said. “Ron Glass, unfortunately, is not available. Ron once joked that he didn’t get a part when they were looking for a Ron Glass-type, and here we are again. We’re looking for a Ron Glass-type, and it’s not going to be Ron Glass.” Shep was the kind of character who brought reason and understanding to the crew of the Serenity, so he is a vital part of the crew!

Related

Russell Up the Knowledge That You Keri — The Collider TV Quiz!

Rustle up the knowledge that you carry about Keri Russell, and see what you can recall about her shows and roles.

Advertisement

This Isn’t the First Time We’ve Returned to the World of ‘Firefly’

Image via FOX

Advertisement

When the show was canceled prior to its release in 2002, fans were only given access to 11 of the 14 episodes. Now, fans can see all 14 of the first season. But if that isn’t enough for fans, there is a Firefly movie as well. Released in 2005, the film Serenity continues the story of Captain Mal and his friends. It isn’t exactly a Season 2 of the series, but it was a way for fans to engage with Firefly after it was wrongly taken from them before the series even had a chance to find an audience. Then, in 2018, a Firefly comic series from Boom! Studios debuted. It ran multiple series set within the Firefly universe until 2024, and the studio did not renew its contract as of 2025.

So for fans of Captain Mal, River, and the team of the Serenity, this new animated series is what we’ve been waiting for! You can watch the original series and film now while we wait for further updates.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Release Date

2002 – 2003-00-00

Network

Advertisement

FOX

Showrunner

Joss Whedon

Advertisement

Directors

Allan Kroeker, David Solomon, James A. Contner, Marita Grabiak, Michael Grossman, Tim Minear, Vern Gillum

Advertisement

Writers

Cheryl Cain, Drew Z. Greenberg, Jane Espenson

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Sponsored content. Us Weekly receives compensation for this article as well as for purchases made when you click on a link and buy something below.

Spring always seems to arrive with a full calendar of events — Easter brunch, bridal showers, weddings, garden parties and more. With so many invitations popping up, having pretty spring dresses in your closet makes getting ready far easier (and far more fun). The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune to find a style that feels polished, feminine and suited for the season.

Belk currently has plenty of beautiful options that check all the boxes. Think floaty floral maxis, breezy minis and waist-defining silhouettes that instantly feel spring-ready. Even better, our picks start at just $39, making them stylish picks for spring weddings, Easter brunch, Mother’s Day gatherings and every celebration in between. Below, shop the best floral dresses for spring with tips on how to style them!

Pretty Spring Dresses for Easter, Weddings and More

1. Our Favorite: This off-the-shoulder midi dress feels instantly elegant with its floral chiffon fabric and romantic neckline. The breezy skirt adds movement while the belted bodice keeps the silhouette polished and flattering.

2. Waist-Defining: This bright yellow maxi dress balances comfort and polish with its easy silhouette and cinched waist. The flowy skirt gives it that effortless, put-together look that works just as well with heels as it does with flats.

3. Smocked Shirtdress: This short-sleeve shirtdress stands out thanks to its smocked sleeves and softly structured shape. The pretty pink hue and floral detailing make for a fun, feminine feel.

4. Halter Hero: A halter neckline instantly elevates this sweeping floral maxi dress. The bold print and easy-to-layer design feel perfect for spring.

5. Must-Have Mini: Playful florals meet a flattering mini silhouette in this three-quarter-sleeve dress. It’s a cute pick for Easter brunch, spring parties or any invite that calls for something a little extra pretty.

6. Floaty Florals: This chiffon mini dress features a dreamy floral print and a breezy swing silhouette that moves beautifully with every step. The mock neckline adds just enough polish to make it feel event-ready.

7. Garden Party Perfection: Covered in delicate floral motifs, this tiered midi dress feels perfect for warm-weather events. The belted waist adds structure while the flowy skirt brings easy movement.

8. Snakeskin Statement: This pink snakeskin-print midi dress brings a bold twist to cocktail dressing. The tie waist and draped skirt create elegant movement that feels perfect for parties and evening events.

9. Resort-Ready: Lilly Pulitzer’s Evita shift dress shines with its vibrant print and classic shift silhouette. The easy fit makes it perfect for warm-weather events, like garden parties, bridal or baby showers and sunny brunches.

10. Breezy Sundress: A relaxed silhouette and lightweight feel make this floral midi dress an effortless warm-weather staple. The simple design pairs easily with everything from sandals to wedges.

11. Tropical-Inspired: A lively tropical print and soft puff sleeves give this playful mini dress a spring feel. The relaxed silhouette keeps it comfortable while still looking polished enough for brunches and garden parties.

12. Blooming Beauty: Covered in vibrant florals, this ruffled maxi dress feels instantly romantic. The V-neckline and tiered skirt create a soft, flowy silhouette that’s made for spring celebrations.

13. Statement Ruffles: A dramatic off-the-shoulder design instantly makes this ruffle maxi dress feel party-ready. The clip-dot texture adds a subtle dimension to the breezy silhouette.

14. Amalfi Moment: An Amalfi Coast-inspired print gives this colorful shirtdress a fresh, eye-catching feel. The breezy silhouette makes it perfect for coastal getaways, resort dinners and vacation brunches.

15. Blooming Beauty: Oversized florals and ruffled trim give Steve Madden’s Adalina dress a romantic, eye-catching feel. The silky silhouette makes it a gorgeous choice for weddings and evening celebrations.

[Editor’s note: The following contains major spoilers for Paradise Season 2, Episode 7.]

Following an early screening of Paradise Season 2, Episode 7, creator, executive producer, and showrunner Dan Fogelman and stars Sterling K. Brown and Enuka Okuma joined Collider’s Steve Weintraub for a Q&A discussing the series’ biggest reveals, the long-term plan for the story, and what audiences can expect as the show moves toward its already-planned third and final season.

The Hulu drama, which begins as a political thriller before evolving into something much larger in scale, continues to expand its mythology in Season 2 while deepening its characters. As the story moves toward its conclusion, the creative team is focused on delivering a carefully constructed ending rather than attempting to extend the series beyond its intended arc. Paradise Season 2 also stars Julianne Nicholson, Krys Marshall, Percy Daggs IV, and introduces Shailene Woodley and Thomas Doherty.

During the interview, Fogelman breaks down how the show’s mysteries are mapped out seasons in advance, Brown discusses why the series resonates emotionally despite its dystopian premise, and Okuma shares insight into the collaborative process behind the scenes. The trio also touches on everything from fan theories and production decisions to how actors prepare for complex serialized storytelling. Read the full transcript below, or watch the video above for the full conversation.

Get to Know the ‘Paradise’ Crew

The trio answer a series of questions to warm up.

Image via Trent Barboza

COLLIDER: I want to start with how much thank you for making such a kick ass show. Seriously. Thank you.

STERLING K. BROWN: Thank you. Big Dan. Dan Fogerman ladies and gentlemen, look at him. Look at him. Ah, he’s so cute.

Before we get started I like doing something at the beginning called get to know your paradise creator and stars. And we’re not gonna do all these questions I promise but I have 49 questions you guys are gonna pick some numbers.

BROWN: 49. It’s specific.

And you’re gonna pick some numbers but the problem is some of the questions are geared towards actors. Some are geared like anyway so if the question if you pull a question for an actor you know what I mean. Got it. So please pick a number.

BROWN: Me? Let’s see if it’s 49 the square root of 49 is 7.

I love seeing movies and movie theaters. Yes. Do you have a favorite movie theater?

BROWN: Oh man. So I live in Culver City for a really long time so that theater in downtown Culver City which is now back in there. It closed and it was arc light and then it closed and then I was back again. So that’s probably the one that I go to the most although I do really miss the landmark. Always off of Pico and whatnot so may it rest in peace. Please pick a number.

ENUKA OKUMA: Number 5.

What is the last movie or TV show you watched that you want to recommend?

OKUMA: Ooh. Oh that’s good. That is a good one. I’ll tell you something. I am in the middle of a Better Call Saul marathon. Oh no. Started a little late, a little late, but I’m really enjoying it and if you haven’t seen it I recommend it.

BROWN: Yeah. That’s a good one. That’s a good one. I like that.

Please pick a number.

DAN FOGELMAN: 28.

What’s the best fan interaction you’ve had and the weirdest?

FOGELMAN: On this show or in life? No no. We had some crazy ones sterling an eye during This Is Us because people would really tell you. I’ve had multiple people come up and tell us that either adopted a child because of the show or they named their child Randall or Jack or something like that. Those experiences are always wild. So that’s a collective group, just cool experience when that would happen.

BROWN: It is cool. I had somebody tell me they quit their job because of me because Randall quit his job in season one. I was like, bro I didn’t tell you quit your job. He was like I was already leaning in that direction. I was like fair enough. Fair enough.

FOGELMAN: I remember the weird, I’m trying to think of a weird one because nobody ever recognizes me, so it’s a better question for Sterling.

BROWN: I recognize you.

FOGELMAN: Thank you, Sterling. I remember I was once on an international flight right when This Is Us started and I kept noticing there was like a handsome man that kept looking at me and I was like oh this is cool am I getting hit on? And then he came over, and he started complimenting This Is Us. He recognized me and I was like whoa that’s weird. And then I could tell he was awkward. And when he walked away my phone started lighting up because it was in the early days of Twitter and I didn’t know when you were getting notified. And it had been Rob Thomas, the lead singer of Matchbox 20. But I hadn’t recognized him.

And he had written, I just had a funny interaction with Dan and I finally had more followers than my aunt. So that was a weird, fun one. That’s a good one.

Please pick another number.

BROWN: Alright I’m going to go with 21.

Brown Explains What Audiences Misunderstand About Acting

“And you’re really just trying to tell the truth as authentically as you can.”

Image via Trent Barboza

What do audiences misunderstand most about your job?

BROWN: That’s a really good one. Alright so I had this thing happen to me one time at church when I was doing a play. I was living in Brooklyn, I was living in Fort Green Brooklyn. I was going to a manual Baptist church and I was doing a play for the church. And this deacon came over and prayed with us as the cast. And he goes, he goes Lord even though they’re deceiving people please give them the opportunity to perform well and everything.

And I think that’s the interesting thing is that I think a lot of people have this idea that we’re very good liars. And I see it very differently. Like you try to inhabit the truth of the given circumstances of that character. And you’re really just trying to tell the truth as authentically as you can. So I’m actually not a great liar. And I think my favorite actors are ones who aren’t great at lying either.

Please pick a number.

OKUMA: Number 49. You said there’s 50?

BROWN: There’s only 49.

You’re about to say number 50, weren’t you? What’s a creative choice in this show that most audiences probably won’t notice but you’re really proud of?

OKUMA: Starting with the easy ones here. Oh yeah.

BROWN: You picked 49.

OKUMA: I did it to myself. A creative choice.

What does success mean to you now versus when you first started acting?

OKUMA: That’s a great question. That’s a great question. That’s a great question. I love that. No. I mean it actually is a good question because I’ve been doing this since 1990. And I was just so desperately always trying to get to a certain place and I finally in the last 10 years or so I was just like, you know what? It doesn’t matter. I have to stop striving, striving, striving and just as they say, enjoy the ride. Enjoy the ride. And as soon as I did, I booked paradise.

BROWN: Boom. Bada bing, bada boom.

OKUMA: So it is about surrender in many ways. So success is, I think it’s relative but I’m feeling very happy these days.

And the last one, please pick a number.

FOGELMAN: I’ll do 23.

Fogelman Breaks Down the Planning Behind ‘Paradise’s Twists

“It’s cool when that works because it means you’ve taken people on the ride the right way.”

Image via Hulu

Actually we can make this for a creative sort of choice but what’s the smallest detail you obsessed over for someone’s character? That’s interesting. That’s good.

DAN FOGELMAN: Well, since we’re talking about, we just screened this episode. I mean, trying to pull off the Dylan reveal here the way we did was a writer of the episode Melissa is here along with I think a few. And our editor. Melissa Glenn who wrote this episode and Julia and Romina who edited it are here. I saw them when I walked in.

BROWN: Right on. Right on.

FOGELMAN: Right on. There’s been a lot of math in years. I’ve been really proud of the, like even talking about our actor Thomas and his age in the first episode of this season and putting it will all make sense when it kind of comes back to play. So I cannot tell you the amount of time we spent in our writer’s room figuring that all out and then all that comes next is so complicated it hurts my brain.

But what was the question again? That was a detail that you obsessed over. I think those details, how to pull off. I mean, we, Sterling and I, have done two shows in a row now with big twists at the end. But there’s also the ways that you pull off a little twist or twists in the middle of things. And I think making that feel fulfilling and rewarding and kind of built-in even though you don’t see it coming. You guys weren’t sitting in the screening just now, but it was cool. He said his name was Dylan, and he said what his birthday was. It’s cool when that works because it means you’ve taken people on the ride the right way. And so that’s something we all work really hard at.

Fogelman Reveals the Long-Term Plan for ‘Paradise’

“And now it will kind of, again, transform as we head out of the second season and into the third.”

Image via Hulu

Advertisement

Now I’m jumping into Paradise questions. Dan, when did you decide you were going to be George RR Martin this season?

FOGELMAN: Well, I’ve actually become friendly with George RR Martin. Text friendly. And you know, it was, it was, we’ve always had this kind of three season plan for the show. And when I first told Sterling about it, I said what the demarcation points would be in the show. How we would end the first season with him hitting the road and learning the world is out there. And the second season would essentially end with him being reunited with and finding his wife and returning to the bunker.

And what happens in the next episode, which I won’t spoil. And that the show would get progressively, would kind of shift in genre. I mean, in the first episode, you think you’re watching a political thriller. And at the end of the first episode, there’s like, oh, there’s something a bit more apocalyptic and sci-fi here. And then as we get deeper into the show, I hope the hope is…

BROWN: We got picked up for the third season. Yeah, yeah, I know, I heard. I don’t know if you know.

FOGELMAN: Just FYI. It’s a good thing because we start shooting in like two weeks.

BROWN: I know, you would have been really fucked. I would have been crazy. But… So I think, and then, you know, progressively the show enters a different space and genre. But we’ve been taking us there slowly. And now it will kind of, again, transform as we head out of the second season and into the third. I’m very excited about the third season. And I think what’s exciting to me is you can hypothesize and you could guess.

And you may occasionally hit on some things, but like, there’s no possible way to guess where this thing is going. And we’ve been really digging in hard and taking it very seriously. I’m very excited about what comes next. So, yeah.

Oh, I have so many follow-ups. Should audiences be more afraid of what they know or what they don’t know right now?

FOGELMAN: Definitely what they don’t know. I mean… My plan is… I mean, I always say with Sterling, it’s, you know… I got… I’m lucky enough to have had a couple of years in the sun with our best actor. And we’re going to put him through it next year. I mean, I’m going to wring him out like a sponge by the time… By the time we are done with this show, he’s going to need a real vacation. That’s my plan. I look forward to it. Thank you, sir.

Why ‘Paradise’ Is Ultimately an Optimistic Show

“And I always think sometimes people are just having bad days or bad years or bad decades or bad half-centuries.”

What’s something viewers think they understand about Paradise that they absolutely don’t?

BROWN: That’s interesting. Have you been following the fan theories as weeks come out and people have been positing their own…

FOGELMAN: My writers show me wild stuff. And once in a while, I’m like, holy shit, that’s the smartest person I’ve had. They should be president. And you all say, wow, people have a lot of time on their hands, you know?

BROWN: I sent you one and I was like, that’s not bad. That’s where we are.

FOGELMAN: Gosh. That’s spoilers, obviously. I’ve always thought that the thing people don’t see… I think people are starting to notice it now, because it’s ultimately a very optimistic show, even though it’s about the apocalypse. It’s optimistic in the way it thinks about people and who people are and what drives people. And I think in its log line, you would think it’s a very pessimistic show. But even as you watch the ending with Gary, the Cameron who played the male man, who I think is just such a terrific actor, there’s kind of a sadness and a humanity to him at the end.

And you see Sinatra has a whole different story, obviously, that we’re getting towards. And I love that moment when Julianne at the end of the episode is so light with her husband and she looks like a different person. She’s such a terrific actress. It’s like, oh, that’s a different person. And that’s a person who’s just had profound grief removed from them.

And I always think sometimes people are just having bad days or bad years or bad decades or bad half-centuries. And so I think the show is… I think people will find by the end that there’s a really optimistic heart at the center of the show in a really weird way.

What do you think people will say after they have seen the Season 2 finale and how many of them will be screaming at the TV?

BROWN: There’ll be a few screams. I think it’s good. I think it’s a solid ending to a season and it’s a good launch into a third season. And it does. The way he pitched it to me in the very beginning, each season it felt almost like the wire, how the wire sort of reinvented itself. You start with the corner boys, then you go to the shores, then you go to the politics of it all. But it’s all part of the same world, but from a different angle each time. And our show is like that, but it also just keeps getting bigger. It keeps getting bigger. And I don’t want to say too much because it’s really good, guys. Listen, let me tell you. You have an opportunity to do something of value. I remember when I did OJ and I was like, oh man, I got nominated for awards and it’s FX.

And I was like, I’m going to go do a network show and it’s going to be great. I don’t care about awards and stuff. This guy can write and I like the show, but we still got recognized in that sort of way. And I was like, all right, now we’re going to do eight episodes. Probably ain’t going to get a whole bunch of attention. That’s quite all right. It’s no big deal. But I don’t know, man. Dan is this wonderful mixture of intelligence and humor and humanity. And I think he can’t help but have it come across when he writes. You don’t think he’s as sweet of a person as he is when you just see him. When you just look at him, you’re like, ah, this guy is fine. But you look at the cheeks and how he turns red instantaneously. And you’re like, oh, there’s a sweetness to this guy. And he can’t help but put that into everything that he writes. And so it’s easy to collaborate with him because the message that you’re putting out into the world is ultimately an affirming one. And sometimes, like I think with our art, you can show the world as it is.

And you can in your own way sort of like tilt the world in a very gentle and easy direction in the way that you think it should go. And in terms of the options of being selfish and keeping things to yourself. Or actually being a part of society that loves and cherishes community and recognizes that we are stronger together. In our own little simple way, like it’s a dystopian, you know, but not in that sort of way. It’s like, you know, we still have choice to do good, to be good. So I think that’s why people have always resonated with it. He’s also a master storyteller on a character level and on a plot level. He gives you that engine that’s like, this mother, what is he going to do next? His M Night Fogelman, baby, you know what I’m saying? I’m hoping that Stark doesn’t go nowhere, but you never know what happens, you know what I’m saying? So I’m here for the ride.

Fogelman Teases Upcoming Mysteries and Character Reveals

“You want to stick the landing.”

Image via Trent Barboza

What do you want to tease about Alex?

FOGELMAN: I mean, you’re going to learn a lot in the next episode. Yeah, and then one of the goals of the show has always been, I like to end the episode with forcing the audience to get some answers and ask the next set of questions, and then I don’t want to end the season and have so many questions hanging over that it feels unrewarding. So you’re going to get a lot of answers by the end of the season and then kind of a new kind of set of questions or things that you’re ready to go see. I’m talking about it very carefully.

I’m going to ask the two of you, what was your reaction when Dan finally told you about Alex and where this was all going? Spoiler-free.

OKUMA: I mean, I just read the script and found out in that way, and just like you said, what I felt was great was similar to season one, you are satisfied, you know, things wrap up, but the whole world expands even more. But that’s all I’m going to say on that.

BROWN: What can I say about Alex?

FOGELMAN: Alexander. Sterling came into the writers room a couple of weeks ago, and we pitched him the third season. Tell him about when we pitched you the third season.

BROWN: Just stay alive. Alexander Hamilton, ladies and gentlemen, thank you. I cried. I cried in the pitch. He pitched out the whole third season to me, and I think it’s so beautiful. And I’ll say this on the record, because he gets mad when I do it, right? Because you made the George RR Martin thing.

It’s important. Because this crowd will understand it. You want to stick the landing. Yes. You understand. I ain’t trying to cast dispersions. You want to stick the landing. And they pitched out the third season to me or whatnot, and I was like, okay, I feel like our audience from beginning to end. We only had 24 of these joints to get to one place to another, but because we only had 24, it’s very little fat, and you get a chance to push the plot forward in a very muscular way. He was pitching out the season to me, and I was like, all right, is that the end of the season? He goes, no, that’s 301. And I was like, what the fuck? I was like, oh, that happened in the first episode! It’s really, really good. And I normally, and I think Dan and I are similar, we try to under promise over deliver, but my enthusiasm is hard to contain because I think his imagination is so brilliant. And it’s something that I don’t think a lot of folks would have anticipated or whatnot. It’s a wild ride, man. It’s fantastic.

What do you want to say about some of the character’s nosebleeds?

BROWN: Oh, look at you, you’re getting granular now, Steve. Okay.

FOGELMAN: Yeah, I mean, we’ve put a lot of, it’s not me. I have eight writers in my writer’s room that have dug in so deep into areas of, and genres that I haven’t tread in before. And really, I think that, about the nosebleeds, I mean, they’ll make sense. I mean, they will make sense. I think that by the time, if we do what I hope we’ll do, I think the final episode of the series will move you, and it will feel right, and you will also go, how the fuck did they get here from where it started? And if we do that, then it will be a three years worth well spent. For sure. And that’s what we’re trying to do.

Image via Trent Barboza

OKUMA: They don’t even, so they don’t tell us either. We’re reading this, you know things. If you want to know. No, no, no. I’ll tell you. I’m good with this. I’m good with not knowing.

FOGELMAN: It was in his contract after his seventh Emmy nomination. He gets to hear it early.

OKUMA: He gets to hear it early. Yeah. But they don’t tell us. And so, you know, we get sort of an overview of what’s going to happen in the season in a Bible, and I remember reading the season two when talking about the nosebleeds, and they theorized for us all the different possible reasons. Maybe it’s this, maybe it’s that, maybe it’s this, and my favorite was the last one was, and sometimes people get nosebleeds. That could be a reason.

Is Jane dead?

FOGELMAN: I mean, it sure seemed dead, didn’t it? I mean, you’ll learn more in the last episode. But yeah, I mean, it seems pretty mortal, the wound.

Nothing is…

FOGELMAN: I mean, a dead kid just maybe came back, so nobody’s really dead.

Again, there’s a reason I was asking that question.

FOGELMAN: They all cheered in here, by the way, guys, when she got stabbed. I’m like, this actress is… She’s an incredible actress, and she might be the nicest human being on the planet. And the fact that everybody hates her in this show, shows what a terrific actress she is.

OKUMA: She’s wonderful. And Gary hates you. The Karen is so lovely.

When ‘Paradise’ Season 3 Begins Filming and What Comes Next

“We’re about to get going.”

Image via Hulu

You touched on it a little bit, but when do you actually start filming season three, and how long are you shooting for?

FOGELMAN: We start in like three weeks, April 7th, I think. April 7th, yep. So we have basically all the scripts are written now. We’re finishing up, and our final touches. So yeah, we’re about to get going.

BROWN: What goes to about…

FOGELMAN: August. Should be mid-August, yeah.

So something that I really want to commend you guys on, and I speak for so many people in California, you shoot in California. Thank you. And one of the things that I think we all know is shooting in California is expensive. I’m sure someone along the way said, if you guys shoot this in Vancouver, or Atlanta, or some other place, you can get X number of dollars more towards your schedule, towards your budget. So what ultimately said, you know, we’re in California, and we need to be here.

FOGELMAN: Well, initially, I mean I said it, and then Sterling said it, and that carried a lot of weight. And it’s like, listen, Sterling and I, we have young families, and we said if we’d like to do this, but we’ll do it if it’s here. And particularly once, I’m one thing, but when Sterling says it, that’s another thing, and that makes it happen. I’ve been talking about it a lot, because my hope is that if we keep talking about it more people in my position and Sterling’s position will put their foot down and say, if you want me, we stay here.

But it’s a very complicated question. When you are scratching and clawing for every piece of a budget to try and make the show you want to make, you can make it for a couple of million dollars more, or a million dollars more, in a different city, because the tax credits are different, because the rules are different, a lot of stuff is shooting in Ireland, in Australia. I mean, I’m shooting a movie out in Australia that I wrote, and I mean, you can barely get a crew out there right now. I know Pete Cameron’s men are telling me they’re considering moving to Australia. And so, it’s complicated, it’s very easy to blame the exodus out of Los Angeles on one factor, when it’s really a combination of factors. There’s studios and networks not wanting to spend the money, the tax credits not being quite where they need to be, although there’s been improvements now. People in lead positions get so much money that it kind of drains the budget from all the other people working on the show, the unions. It’s a really complex problem.

At the end of the day, I’ve chosen to shoot most of my stuff here. When it can be shot in Los Angeles, sometimes things demand to be shot elsewhere. And I will take whatever budget they get, and if that means that, you know, I love the use of the final countdown in this last episode. That’s not cheap. You know what I mean? Those things aren’t cheap. But I would, if we hit the place where that wasn’t doable, I would have used my unbelievable score to end the episode, and that’s how we would have gotten by in that particular situation. And we have an extraordinarily healthy budget, so we’re not just your typical show. In order to get it made, you really can’t get it made in Los Angeles. So it’s like a lot of smart people need to hold hands and figure out how to get more stuff done here. It’s not just one group of people. It’s not the studios. It’s not Gavin Newsom. It’s not the showrunners or the movie stars. It’s everybody. It needs to kind of figure this out.

Will the series finale be an extended episode?

FOGELMAN: Yeah, still is. I don’t know. If it needs to be, I mean, if it needs to be, I don’t… What’s that?

BROWN: No, go ahead. I’m just thinking about it out loud. What would it feel like? You know what I’m saying?

FOGELMAN: Yeah, I mean, the great part about Hulu and these streaming shows is like, on This Is Us, man, every episode has to be exactly 42 seconds.

BROWN: 42.30? 42.30, yeah. I mean, I cannot tell you how much time in my life… He’d be giving me 51-page scripts. I’m like, this ain’t gonna make it on air, man.

FOGELMAN: What you doing? So, yeah, so… We have episodes that are 50 minutes, 60 minutes, 48 minutes. Typically, our scripts are in a range where it’s not going to be too much of a problem, so I don’t think we’ll need to, but if the story dictates it, I’d fight for that.

Fogelman Explains Why ‘Paradise’ Is Designed as a Three-Season Story

“That would be really great, but I don’t think artistically it will make sense.”

Image via Trent Barboza

I know this is a three-season show, but this is critically popular. Audiences love it. Has there been any discussion of some sort of like, spin-off, or is it really just three seasons? We’re in and out.

BROWN: We got this question before, too. You go. Yeah, you go, and then I’ll back up.

FOGELMAN: I mean, I think this show as it exists is meant to be three seasons, and it would be very hard to figure out a quote-unquote spin-off of it after. I doubt you’d ask me the question a year from now when the finale ends. That said, it’s definitely been brought up and mused about, we love all the people working on it, but I haven’t seen anything resembling a path for that. It’s definitely a three-season show, the core show, and I haven’t seen the path for a spin-off yet. But I have wonderful young writers, and I give it all to them if they come up with something amazing, but no one has yet.

BROWN: It’s a double-edged sword working for you in that you have a beginning, middle, and end in your mind from the beginning, and so it means that we get a chance to build toward something, so artistically, it’s incredibly fulfilling. I just really want my crew to work as much as possible, and with these eight-episode seasons, things get truncated in a while, and going back to the LA question, it’s too expensive a city to live and not work. So if we can have our cake and eat it too, you would mention your next show is whatever, you can do two seasons at once, so you’re shooting 16 episodes or whatever that case is. That would be really great, but I don’t think artistically it will make sense. Same with This Is Us. When we came to the end of that, it was the right time to end, I think three seasons because it’s been conceived as such from the beginning, I feel like if you go to four, it could be like a shark jump because it feels complete.

I think I speak for a lot of people, I love the idea of three seasons and being just a perfect three seasons, and that’s it.

FOGELMAN: I think the big thing is trying to figure out these shows, how to get them back on the air quickly enough. I had Sterling do a little recap online of the first season because I was like, I don’t remember what happened in the first season of the show. And we were back on quick, we were back on within a year, that we were determined, our studio and network were great about picking us up early, but man, it’s hard to get back into these serialized shows when you’re off the air for so long. So like Sterling was saying, that’s another way that more work can stay in Los Angeles, is if in these big shows when you have people you believe in, yes, maybe it’s an eight or ten episode show, but let’s bang out two seasons at once so then there can be a five month break in between the two seasons and you’re shooting season three, and that starts requiring a commitment before a show is a success or a failure. And that’s hard too, you’re talking about astronomical amounts of money. It’s a complicated equation.

The thing that I’m most excited about why I asked you when you were filming is, if you wrap in August, I know it’s coming back early next year in terms of season table.

BROWN: His goal is to give back at the same time each year. You know, we don’t like the two year wait and anything like that. Give the people what they want.

FOGELMAN: We actually would be shooting already, but like we had two pregnant women and the killies tending.

BROWN: Yeah, all of that together. We need to give it a little more time.

I love talking to actors about how they prepare for their scenes and their work. So you guys are filming, you know, hypothetically Episode 4, and you’ve been going, what does a typical weekend look like for you guys? Are you breaking down the script? Are you practicing like what it is actually like getting ready for the next episode? If you take me through your process.

OKUMA: You know, we’re lucky enough on this show to get the scripts early enough and have time with them. I’ve been on a lot of shows where you’re getting revisions the night before and it’s hard to keep all the stuff in your head. But with this show, they’re timely and we appreciate it. But I’m for me, I am. I learn lines pretty quickly, but I have to. I like to sort of keep it in my head, keep it in my body over a couple of days, weeks if I can. And then it’s the second set. It’s easy after that. Yeah. Yeah. So that’s kind of on the weekend. I’m running lines for sure. My husband’s here somewhere. He’s always running them with me. So yeah, that’s what I am.

BROWN: I always appreciate trying to learn my lines at least 48 hours in advance because it does like it’s like Thanksgiving leftovers. It tastes better the next day. So you’re not trying to like cram the night before or whatnot, but you give yourself at least 48 hours because sometimes I don’t have weeks. I’m a new girl.

OKUMA: Well, with your number one, it’s a little more.

BROWN: They got a brother out here tap dancing. That’s doing a bunch of stuff, boy. I got a fire like, please, can I memorize these lines? But it’s also, I mean, in a sense… I find tricks like this on the treadmill or walking around my neighborhood. Physical activity along with memorization sort of allows things to soak in in a way. And then like, I’ll play with different intonations and try not to come with one fixed sort of way of saying it because you don’t want to get locked into a line reading. So I’ll sing it sometimes. I’ll rap it sometimes. I’ll do it with an accent sometimes just being stupid in a very playful way because it keeps it sort of like it’s in there, but it’s not like that. You know what I’m saying? And there’s like different people in our cast do different things. Say Shahi, if you ever see her script, she writes down her lines over and over again in different colored pencils because she has to have like eight different colors of the thing in order for her to memorize the thing. I was like, that’s a choice.

The late great Ron Seafish Jones when we were working on This Is Us, like it was like a jazz score. He had like different underlines and circles and asterisks and all this kind of stuff, right? It was beautiful. My script is fairly bare. I do like, I will ask production for a hard copy sometimes. I’m trying to save trees, but sometimes I need to… I gotta mark my shit up a little bit. You know what I’m saying? And it does… having something tactile helps in a real way. And some people who are great with just the pad, God bless you. And I know there’s things I can probably use on the pad to get the… What’s the pencil on the pad called? I pencil. You wanted him. Hey guys, it’s a pencil. Brother looked at me like it’s just a pencil, bro. What are you talking about?

But there is a certain tactile thing that I enjoy with the hard copy as well. It’s also a matter of depending on where we are. This one’s not as bad because we do two episodes at a time, but you’re shooting out of sequence. So you always have to have, for me, remembering where I was before and where I was after. Because sometimes it can get sort of jumbled up in your head. So you’re like, alright, I’m coming from here and the next thing that I’m doing is that. Okay, and that helps too.

Give me just one more second. Dan, this is for you. Was there a performance that forced you to rewrite or expand a role?

FOGELMAN: Beavers? No, but I will say actually one of the most exciting parts is kind of an extension to that question. Anuka auditioned for, had one and a half, two scenes in the first season. Two? And I kept saying to her, it’s going to be a really big part. You just bear with me. If you bear with me. And that has been, it’s not a surprise and it’s not like we wrote more. But one of my favorite parts of this season is her carrying that whole two previous episodes. Being like, here’s an actor I wasn’t super aware of who read one scene and Sterling and I were like, yeah, we like her. We like that. And then just going, holy shit, we’re giving her half the TV show right now and she’s just been absolutely murdering it. And so that’s like a really exciting thing. It’s not like the coolest part of my job, it’s not necessarily expanding the part for someone. It’s when you go, oh shit, I’ve got it and I can give it everything that we hoped we could do in it. I can give her her own episode. She’s so winning, she’s so good. People are going to be so excited to see her with Sterling and she holds her own right next to this guy who’s a force of nature. And it’s really, really exciting. So that’s a good part.

Brown’s Meryl Streep Story Steals the Show

“And she kissed me right there.”

Image via 20th Century Studios

Advertisement

This is going to probably be my last question. I’ve been asking this of everyone recently. Have you ever asked for someone’s autograph?

FOGELMAN: I mean, as a kid for sure, baseball, I mean, athletes are still my thing. Athletes are still my thing. Not in a long time. I’m trying to think if I’ve asked for a selfie, which I guess is the modern day autograph of anybody of late. And I don’t think, I mean, if I met like Obama or something, I’d ask for a lie.

BROWN: You haven’t met Obama? Nice guy.

FOGELMAN: What about you?

OKUMA: So my parents are huge Young and the Restless fans. So for them, I ended up meeting a crew member and for them, I got them a signed photograph of the actor who plays Victor Newman. They were really into it. So I asked for someone else.

BROWN: That’s amazing. I have a big crush on Meryl Streep. And I remember the first time I met her, she didn’t know who I was. I was like, I’m just a really big fan. And Dan had told me that there’s a possibility of me coming on to Only Murders in the building as a love interest for her. And I came up to her, I was at the Academy Gala and I was like, Dan Folgman says there’s an opportunity for us to work together. And she goes, wouldn’t that be fun? I said, woman, you have no idea. Then this is the best part, right? Because I done American Fiction and then I saw her at the AFI thing. You were there and she comes up and lovingly holds me around the waist. And she said, when I first met you, I hadn’t seen your work, but you were absolutely glorious in American fiction. And she kissed me right there.

FOGELMAN: I’m good, I’m good. By the way, that story had nothing to do with an autograph.

BROWN: That’s my autograph.

FOGELMAN: He just wanted to tell that story.

BROWN: Can I tell the third part of the story? This is the best part. We were at the SAG Awards, now the Actor Awards. And I was backstage with my wife. And now my wife doesn’t walk fast on red carpet days because she looks like a wounded deer just newly born. And the shoes are very, very high. So I’m always coming like, come on woman, let’s keep up. And so we’re backstage and I saw Meryl. And I said, Meryl. And she turned around and she goes, sterling. And she reaches her arm out and then I just walked up with Meryl because Meryl walks fast. She wears flats. And me and Meryl just walked and talked and had a little lovely time. And my wife was behind trying to keep up. And she said, did you just leave me for Meryl Streep? I said, yes. And yes, I did.

There’s nothing I could say right now that’s going to be better than that story.

Paradise Seasons 1 and 2 are available to stream on Hulu now.

Advertisement

Release Date

January 26, 2025

Advertisement

Network

Hulu

Showrunner

Advertisement

Dan Fogelman

Directors

Gandja Monteiro

Advertisement

Writers

Jason Wilborn

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.

This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.

Virgin River has gone through a surprising amount of cast exits through the years.

Based on Robyn Carr’s book series, Virgin River follows the lives of residents living in a small town in Northern California, including Mel (Alexandra Breckenridge) and Jack (Martin Henderson). The hit series, which premiered in 2019, also stars Colin Lawrence, Annette O’Toole, Tim Matheson, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Sarah Dugdale, Zibby Allen and Kai Bradbury.

After seven seasons, there have been some major departures from the Netflix show. Grayson Gurnsey left as Ricky after season 4, and Mark Ghanimé, who played Cameron, had a surprising exit once season 6 was released.

“I think this season saw a little bit of a sendoff for Cameron,” showrunner Patrick Sean Smith exclusively told Us Weekly in December 2024. “In terms of Mark, the actor who I adore, he unfortunately won’t be coming back for season 7.”

Smith didn’t rule out a potential return for the character in the future. “But that’s not to say that Cameron’s not a part of our world forever,” he added. “I would love to bring him back, and bring his character back when the story presents itself.”

In March 2026, Virgin River returned for season 7, and it was later confirmed that Marco Grazzini will not reprise his role as Mike. In another twist, Lauren Hammersley, who has played Charmaine since the show premiered, is also not expected to come back for season 8.

“For me, I’m just trying to look [at] the longevity of the show and making sure that the characters that we’re keeping have enough story engine in them to keep going,” Smith told Deadline at the time. “So I can’t say there are any specific cast shakeups planned, but I think we will have to start to — as characters run their course — make some decisions and bring in some new blood.”

Keep scrolling for the biggest Virgin River cast exits through the years:

Lexa Doig

Paige played a central role in the first season, but Lexa Doig’s role decreased and the character was ultimately written off by season 4.

Lynda Boyd

Lynda Boyd left the show in season 3 when Lilly was killed.

Grayson Gurnsey

After playing Ricky since Virgin River debuted in 2019, Grayson Gurnsey exited in season 4 as his character joined the Marines. He briefly returned, but Ricky hasn’t been mentioned since season 6.

Related: How Much Time Has Passed on ‘Virgin River‘ Since Season 1? Timeline Explained

Advertisement

While Virgin River is Netflix’s longest-running scripted series, viewers have been left confused about how much time has actually passed on the show. Based on Robyn Carr’s book series, Virgin River follows the lives of residents living in a small town in Northern California, including Mel (Alexandra Breckenridge) and Jack (Martin Henderson). The hit series, […]

Mark Ghanimé

Cameron was introduced in season 4 and appeared in two seasons before being written off the show.

Lauren Hammersley

Season 7 solved the mystery of Charmaine’s kidnapping. It was later confirmed that Lauren Hammersley wouldn’t be reprising her role going forward.

Marco Grazzini

Marco Grazzini played Mike for several seasons before the character’s story was wrapped up in season 7.