Entertainment
‘Euphoria’ Breakout Anna Van Patten Felt Pressure To Make Kitty’s Dark Story “Hit Hard”
Summary
- In an interview with Collider, Anna Van Patten said playing Kitty helped her feel more comfortable in her body.
- Van Patten felt pressure to do justice to Kitty’s dark, emotional story.
- She credited Sam Levinson with helping shape Kitty through references and collaboration.
Season 3 of Euphoria will be remembered for a few highlight moments. Among them are Cassie’s (Sydney Sweeney) and Nate’s (Jacob Elordi) wedding dance, Nate’s brutal death, and the four-year wait between Season 2 and 3. But it also represents the breakout performance of Anna Van Patten, who plays Kitty, a dancer at the Silver Slipper. Van Patten isn’t a stranger to iconic television shows. Her father, Tim Van Patten, is an actor and director, known for his work on The Sopranos, Sex and the City, Touched by an Angel, and Game of Thrones. Anna grew up on many of those sets, soaking in the environment, gaining knowledge and experiences that would go on to help her succeed as an actress.
Along with her father, Tim, Anna’s uncle Dick Van Patten, and sister Grace Van Patten have also made an impact in the entertainment industry. Dick was an actor and comedian, featured in films and shows like Spaceballs, Robin Hood: Men in Tights, and Eight Is Enough. Meanwhile, Grace has starred in the hit shows Nine Perfect Strangers, Tell Me Lies, and The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox.
While Anna is grateful for her family’s entertainment expertise, she is paving her own path and staying authentic to who she is — not trying to fit into the public norm. In this exclusive interview with Collider, Van Patten explains the craft behind Kitty in Euphoria, working with Sam Levinson, and what she learned about herself while embodying a dark and sad character. Anna also dives into her fascination with storytelling, her appetite for learning, and what roles and projects excite her.
Van Patten Felt Pressure To Do Justice to Kitty’s Dark ‘Euphoria’ Story
“I felt a pressure to do a good job.”
COLLIDER: Was there a realization moment for you that you were going to be part of a series in Euphoria that fans worldwide have been waiting four years for?
VAN PATTEN: It has really felt surreal the whole time. I think in order to do my job and to not feel crazy, I didn’t really let it hit me just so I can be as present as I could be. But I remember getting the call that I got the job and then just kind of being silent to be like, “Oh my gosh.” Never in my wildest dreams did I think this would happen.
Your character, Kitty, is dark, sad, and emotional. Did you do anything specific to help get yourself into such a deep headspace?
VAN PATTEN: I think I just stayed really present with her and kind of played with the scene that we’re dealing with, which it is very dark and it is sad. And just to be as present as I could and really focus on her truth.
What were those conversations like with Sam [Levinson]? How did you two shape Kitty together?
VAN PATTEN: Well, he gave me a lot of references on the first day on set that really helped me kind of expand the vision that I already had for her from when I first auditioned for her. So he was so helpful. We always approached things with her very delicately.
How much freedom did you have to try different things during takes and scenes? Was there enough room to play around and find that right tone?
VAN PATTEN: Yeah, definitely. There was always room to play. And I think when I had a question or if I felt like something, [Sam] and everyone would always listen. And there was a lot of room to collaborate, and it feels like a good place to be when you feel like you can speak on certain things.
Episode four is titled ‘Kitty Loves to Dance’. Did you know at the time of filming that episode that your character was going to have an episode named after her?
VAN PATTEN: I did, I did, and that was really exciting.
Did that sort of put any pressure on you at all, knowing that you were going to be the focal point of this episode?
VAN PATTEN: No, I think I understood that Kitty is important. What she goes through for the bigger story. And I felt a pressure to do a good job so that what’s being said feels authentic and hits hard. So I did feel pressure, but not because the title, the episode, is named after my character, but just because I wanted to really do justice to Kitty.
Did you learn anything about yourself stepping into the shoes of Kitty at all?
VAN PATTEN: I think I learned a lot about myself, and it challenged me. But what appeals to me with certain projects is that I am learning about myself throughout it.
What are some things that you’ve learned internally, let’s say, Kitty, or even throughout your entire career? What have you learned through the roles that you’ve played?
VAN PATTEN: Well, this one is a bit different, but I think I’ve learned to be more comfortable in my body. And I think playing a dancer made me feel okay to take up space. And I started doing pole dancing, and that too changed my relationship with my body, and how, first, others might perceive me, but then, realizing that it’s so much more than that.
Anna Van Patten’s Hands-On Education
“I thought I wanted to just have a more well-rounded view of the art.”
You’ve spent a lot of time growing up on not only TV sets, but also some of the most iconic shows. What did you learn about acting from being able to explore sets at such a young age?
VAN PATTEN: I think because I grew up visiting my dad on those sets, and sometimes the camera wouldn’t be rolling, but we’d just be able to play in a back room or explore, I learned that storytelling has a lot more to do than just with words, and that there’s so much that goes into telling a story and there’s so many people involved, and it is a big puzzle.
You prepared yourself by not just jumping right into acting, but by studying performing arts and film in high school and college. Firstly, why did you want to get more education under your belt? And secondly, what did you learn that you might not have if you had gone a different route?
VAN PATTEN: It has always really interested me. Every actor, every person in film is, I assume, working in film because they love movies. After studying acting in high school, I thought I wanted to just have a more well-rounded view of the art. And I’m really glad that I did do that, because I think it kind of opened my eyes to the bigger picture.
In ‘The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox’, how did you and your sister lean on each other while working on such an intense story?
VAN PATTEN: I leaned on her fully. She’s such a great leader, and it taught me a lot about just being on set. All I had to do was watch her because she’s so amazing. And that would kind of affect me in ways that maybe I wasn’t trying to, but it was so nice just to be with her throughout that whole experience and watch her do her thing that she’s so good at. I felt very proud of her.
What’s Next for Anna Van Patten?
“That’s just kind of how I see life.”
What sort of roles and projects are you attracted to? Are there any specific types that you open your eyes to?
VAN PATTEN: I do think I’ve always been interested in films that kind of explore the gray areas and that open conversation, so I was really excited to work on Euphoria because I think it really opens the doors for bigger conversations.
I know you’ve said you’re deeply connected with storytelling in so many different forms. What is it about telling stories that inspires you most?
VAN PATTEN: I just think that everything has a story. That’s just kind of how I see life, and I can’t really imagine it any other way. It’s how I connect with the world, and how I learn about myself. I think storytelling is just so important.
Looking back at your younger self that just got into acting, is there anything that you would tell that younger self that you’ve learned over the way that would be helpful at that time?
VAN PATTEN: I’d tell myself to lean into the things that make you authentic. My perception and how I see the world is what make me unique. And I think when we’re younger, we maybe try to fit into other boxes to feel like we’re normal. But I just tell myself to just be you and to expand on that and keep learning more about yourself and really focus on what interests you.
What do you like to do, whether it’s in between projects, maybe in between days of production, that you can kind of escape from?
VAN PATTEN: I’m a big believer in walking, so I’ll walk very long and very far away. And that’s kind of my way to ground myself. And then always looking for things that kind of inspire me. So watching a lot of movies, go to museums, and talk to my family. I’m a bit restless, so I always keep on moving, and keep learning, and exploring.
Looking forward, what excites you most about your future?
VAN PATTEN: I guess that there’s always room to grow personally and creatively, and that really excites me. And I hope I’m a part of more projects that allow me to do that.
Euphoria is now available to stream on HBO Max.
- Release Date
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2019 – 2026-00-00
- Network
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HBO
- Showrunner
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Sam Levinson
- Directors
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Jennifer Morrison, Augustine Frizzell
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Ashanti is fully in her mommy era and soaking up every minute with baby KK. The singer recently took over timelines after sharing sweet moments with her son Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, and fans are eating up every photo and video.
RELATED: It’s The Haynes! New Video Has Social Media Saying Nelly “Hasn’t Stopped Smiling” Since Spinning The Block With Ashanti
Ashanti Shares Precious Mommy-And-Son Moments With Baby KK
Fans are dropping nothing but heart eyes after Ashanti shared the most sweetest photos and videos of her son, Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, on Instagram. The first-time mom gave her followers a little life update through a carousel post that she admitted came a little late since it featured moments from April. Throughout the post, Ashanti gave fans a peek into some vacation vibes before baby KK popped up stealing the whole show in a few adorable clips. Ashanti didn’t show baby KK’s face in the recap, but she did give fans a preview of his full head of hair in one adorable video that shows him hanging out at what looks like a birthday party, while another catches him checking out a few Easter baskets. But that wasn’t the only moment fans couldn’t get enough of.
Ashanti also dropped a sweet father-son photo of Kk sleeping peacefully right on his daddy Nelly’s chest. The photos and videos has fans loving every second of Ashanti in mommy mode. And from the looks of it, she’s soaking up every moment right along with them. She event let them know in her caption writing, “yeah I’m a lil late, but Life has been life-ing 🥰 in the most Amazing way! ❤️”
Social Media Went Crazy After Ashanti Gave A Peek At Baby KK
After The Shade Room dropped the new flicks and videos of Ashanti and KK, fans ran straight to the comment section with reactions. Plenty of folks couldn’t stop talking about how adorable he is, with many saying they’re ready for Ashanti to finally show his cute little face.
Instagram user @niece_mac_ wrote, “Aww look at all that hair I just know the baby is gorgeous 🥰🥰”
Instagram user @ziahne wrote, “Lovely family !! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍”
While Instagram user @launica_natie wrote, “It’s like we reliving in the early 2000’s through their relationship and I’m here for it! 🥹💙🥰”
Then Instagram user @sexyblue109 wrote, “Damn I feel like she just had him 🥰🥰🥰”
Another Instagram user @yagirlshayx3 wrote, “I just know he’s so adorable 😍”
Instagram user @_thats.brookes.alexandria_ wrote, “Ashanti and her baybeeeee babyyyy bayyyyy-beeeee. Okay I’ll leave 🤭”
While another Instagram user @bzebarbie wrote, “imagine saying Ashanti your mom and Nelly ur daddy 😍”
Then another Instagram user @iam_the_only1 wrote, “He’s handsome 😍 I know Shan did her thang..”
Instagram user @theblacklawyerspodcast wrote, “We wanna see his face 😍🥹but we understand privacy.”
Finally, Instagram user @lylisha_ wrote, “Baby kk look so cute 😍😍😍😍😍😍”
From Lambos To Crowns — Fans Previously Got A Peek At Baby KK At His First Birthday Party
Fans first got a little preview of baby Kareem during his first birthday celebration last July. Ashanti posted photos on social media of her and Nelly celebrating alongside family and friends. More footage showed Kareem pulling up to his party in a mini white Lamborghini with sunglasses and a crown on his head.
C’mon family!👏🏾 Nelly and Ashanti were all smiles for their son KK’s first birthday celebration.🥳💙 (📸: @people @soulbphotos)✍🏾:#TSRStaffJR pic.twitter.com/RcnWRLO7aJ
— TheShadeRoom (@TheShadeRoom) July 28, 2025
RELATED: Okay, Hips! Ashanti Turns Heads With Her Turnt-Up Energy During Recent Performance (WATCH)
What Do You Think Roomies?
By Chris Snellgrove
| Published
To this day, William Shatner remains the face of Star Trek. It was his weirdly compelling performance that helped transform The Original Series into a breakout pop culture hit. Later, it was Shatner’s charisma that gave the TOS movies their charming mainstream appeal. Shatner’s Captain Kirk is such an iconic figure that the franchise has tried to bring him back to life with multiple actors. But for all their talents, performers like Chris Pine and Paul Wesley could never match Shatner’s iconic (and certainly iconoclastic) performance. Because of that, the producers of the most popular current Trek show did their best to put Shatner’s Kirk onscreen again.
We first found out about this when Shatner himself mentioned being approached by some unnamed Star Trek producers. Recently, NuTrek guru Alex Kurtzman and some of his fellow producers gave an interview to Polygon where they admitted that they made an effort to bring Shatner back for Season 4 of Strange New Worlds. It would have been quite fitting: not only is SNW one big love letter to The Original Series, but this year is the 60th anniversary of the franchise. Unfortunately, Kurtzman and company couldn’t make it happen, which makes it official: after decades of producers trying to bring him back, William Shatner will never return to Star Trek, the franchise that made him famous.
Strange New Worlds And A Familiar Actor
Strange New Worlds is a prequel to Star Trek: The Original Series that focuses on the adventures of Captain Pike, who commanded the Enterprise’s first five-year mission. The show features several new actors playing familiar characters, including Ethan Peck as Spock and Anson Mount as Spock. Paul Wesley plays the younger Kirk, which leaves the obvious question: how, exactly, was the show going to bring back the 95-year-old William Shatner to play the same character? Through the magic of the multiverse, of course!
In an interview with Polygon, Strange New Worlds co-showrunner Akiva Goldsman said that his biggest regret was that they never managed to bring William Shatner to homage the Original Series episode “City on the Edge of Forever.” This is the famous episode where Kirk falls in love with a woman whose activism keeps America out of World War II, allowing the Nazis to rule the world. To save the future, Kirk is forced to let her die. Goldsman wanted an SNW episode portraying Shatner as a version of Kirk who had stayed in the past to stay with the woman he loved, the future be damned.
Mirror, Mirror, On The Screen
According to Akiva Goldsman, the Strange New Worlds writers developed several scripts and tried to bring William Shatner each season, but it never happened. Now that Strange New Worlds has wrapped production, and no new Trek series is on the horizon, it’s unlikely we’ll see Shatner play Captain Kirk on the small screen again. Plus, given that Paramount wants to reboot Trek as a film with completely new characters, we’re equally unlikely to see Shatner’s Kirk on the big screen again. This is doubly sad because different Star Trek producers have been trying to bring him back for decades.
When Star Trek: Enterprise was first airing, William Shatner himself approached Trek guru Rick Berman with an idea. Over lunch, the actor pitched the idea of a two-part episode that returned to the Mirror Universe and showed the evil version of Captain Kirk as an older man. It was a great idea, but there was just one problem: Shatner was asking for too much money. While he didn’t name an exact amount, Berman told The Shuttlepod Show that “the number was probably 8x more than the studio had any interest in.” However, Manny Coto liked Shatner’s idea, which is why we did eventually get a two-part Mirror Universe episode, albeit without Captain Kirk.
He’s Not Dead, Jim!
After Enterprise prematurely ended, fans worried that the franchise might be dead. Fortunately, Star Trek (2009) brought everyone’s favorite Original Series characters back with new actors, new stories, and an entirely new universe (the Kelvinverse) to play in. Leonard Nimoy appears to help pass the baton to yet another new generation of Trek performers, and writers Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman originally wrote a scene where Spock had a pre-recorded “happy birthday” message from Shatner’s Kirk. But Shatner wanted a prominent role where Kirk was somehow still alive, suggesting the writers canonize his novels where Kirk is resurrected. Feeling that more Shatner would overshadow the younger performers, Orci and Kurtzman wrote him out of the film altogether.
Without William Shatner, Star Trek would likely have never become such an outsized pop culture phenomenon. Previously, his returns (first, in The Animated Series, and again in the TOS movies) helped reinvigorate the franchise, and he played a major part in helping the Next Generation cast transition their characters from TV to film. Clearly, Shatner never lost his love for Kirk: not only did he make multiple attempts to return via TV and film, but he wrote (along with Judith and Garfield Reeves-Stevens) an entire series of books about Kirk coming back to life and having more crazy interstellar adventures.
Outside of books, though, it seems like Kirk’s Star Trek adventures have come to an end. He won’t pop up in Strange New Worlds, and he’s deeply unlikely to make any kind of appearance in Paramount’s upcoming reboot film. That’s unfortunate for all of us who would love to see this iconic performer play his most famous character, one last time. Whether or not Shatner ever makes a triumphant return, though, we’ll always remember him for two things. First, boldly going where no actor has gone before. And second, letting generations of fans tag along for the ride!
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Kate Middleton has always had a talent for making classic staples feel fresh again, and one of her most elegant warm-weather pieces is quietly taking over summer 2026. Classy white linen shorts were once reserved for beach vacations and yacht clubs, but now they’re suddenly replacing denim cutoffs as the ‘It’ girl staple. You can recreate the royal-approved look for just $30 on Amazon.
The Princess of Wales previously stepped out wearing white linen shorts with a navy striped sweater, white sneakers and gold hoop earrings. Instead of looking overly preppy or casual, the outfit struck that perfect in-between balance: relaxed, expensive-looking and incredibly timeless. Her outfit also explains why linen shorts are becoming the anti-denim trend fashionistas can’t stop wearing.
Get the Willit High-Waisted Linen Pleated Shorts for $30 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
The Willit High-Waisted Linen Pleated Shorts are very much like Middleton’s pair. They feature a tailored high-waisted silhouette, subtle pleating and a breezy wide-leg fit that instantly feels more elevated than frayed denim shorts. The crisp white shade especially gives off that quiet luxury coastal energy that’s dominating summer style this year.
Meghan Markle was just spotted with the kind of piece most of Us may already have in our closets . . . and somehow, she made it feel brand new again. The Duchess has long been known for her polished, pared-back style, but this time, it wasn’t a tailored coat or elevated dress catching attention. […]
Made from a 55% linen and 45% cotton blend, the shorts feel airy while being slightly softer than pure linen styles. Because they have that cotton addition, you’ll love that the shorts are less prone to wrinkling. That means you can pack them in your suitcase for travels, too.
The shorts also feature practical side and back pockets to stash small items. Plus, you get a choice of 7-inch or 10-inch inseams, making the bottoms easy to customize to your perfect fit.
While the white version feels especially Middleton-coded, the shorts also come in versatile, neutral shades like khaki and army green.
Shoppers are just as obsessed as we are. One reviewer raved about their “sophisticated look” that’s perfect for “warmer weather,” which sums up exactly the royal effect we’re after. Another called them “lightweight and very flattering,” noting that they look “very nice” styled with a dressy top and cute shoes.
That’s the secret to making them feel like more than just shorts. Dress the pair up with a tucked-in linen blouse and slide sandals, or keep things casual à la Middleton with a striped pullover and white sneakers.
Honestly, it’s easy to understand why white linen shorts are summer’s biggest anti-denim trend. They feel cooler, lighter and far more refined than classic cutoffs, while still being just as effortless to throw on. And if Middleton rocks the style, you can bet the white shorts will be the chic summer staple worn absolutely everywhere.
Get the Willit High-Waisted Linen Pleated Shorts for $30 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more from Willit here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
Jennifer Garner just proved (again!) that the easiest outfits can still feel incredibly cool — all it takes is the right finishing touch. The actress stepped out in Los Angeles wearing a simple mix of a blue sweater and classic jeans, but it was her retro-inspired sneakers that gave the entire look that effortless, cool-girl […]
From Jordyn Woods to Larsa Pippen, Netflix viewers will be surprised by the amount of surprise celebrity cameos on Calabasas Confidential.
Netflix’s newest reality show, which premiered in May 2026, follows a complicated friend group. According to the synopsis, Calabasas Confidential explores when “a group of lifelong friends, foes, and exes return to Calabasas [after graduating college] for a summer they’ll never forget.”
The description continues: “Back home and living in their parents’ hillside mansions, they’ll be faced with the daunting reality of confronting unresolved drama while trying to define what’s next for their lives and relationships. Four years may have put distance between them, but new flames, old feuds, and unexpected secrets don’t stay hidden forever behind the gates of LA’s most envied zip code.”
In the first season, Romeo Miller, Carmen Electra and more celebrities made appearances on the show. Scroll down to see a comprehensive breakdown of the cameos:
The cast of Calabasas Confidential might look familiar in large part due to their famous members. Netflix’s newest reality show, which premieres on Friday, May 29, follows a complicated friend group. According to the synopsis, Calabasas Confidential explores when “a group of lifelong friends, foes, and exes return to Calabasas [after graduating college] for a […]
Jordyn Woods
The former reality star supported her sister on the show.
Brandi Glanville
Brandi — and her son Mason — made an appearance in season 1.
Romeo Miller
Romeo filmed with his brother on Calabasas Confidential.
Carmen Electra
While Romeo and Hercy Miller were at a tattoo parlor, Electra appeared on screen.
While many TV shows have made household names out of their star players, occasionally showrunners have been able to corral some of Hollywood’s biggest names to drop in for a surprising cameo during a complete episode or a single scene. Perhaps one of the most polarizing cameos belonged to Ed Sheeran on HBO’s Game of […]
Larsa Pippen
Larsa and Scottie Pippen’s son Preston shared a scene with his mother in season 1.
Howie Mandel
In perhaps the most surprising cameo, Mandel appeared in the background when some cast members were filming at The Grove.
Bret Michaels
Bret and Kristi Gibson’s daughter, Raine, made appearances in season 1 — and he made a cameo too.
Kendra Wilkinson is clapping back at trolls who have something to say about her body, saying she loves the way she looks.
The ex-model got her big break as a Playboy model, appearing on “The Girls Next Door” as one of Hugh Hefner’s girlfriends. Wilkinson has since left that life, transitioning to a real estate agent.
As a reality star cleans up her image, she recently embarked on a weight loss journey and couldn’t help but get tongues wagging about her physique.
In a recent Instagram post, Wilkinson gave fans an update on her weight loss journey after starting the use of GLP-1 drugs.
Uploading a promotional clip in collaboration with health company Effecty, the public figure appeared smaller, rocking an oversized brown blazer over fitted black pants and a nude camisole.
She proudly gushed about fitting into her size six jeans, gushing, “I couldn’t be more excited.” In the accompanying caption, she added, “Month two on my GLP-1 journey and I’m still being really intentional about how I approach this.”
Wilkinson further explained that the number on the scale isn’t the motivation behind the journey. Instead, she wants to feel like herself and revive her energy.
Concluding her post, People Magazine reports wrote, “We’re just getting started, but I’m here for all of it and can’t wait to bring you along for what’s coming.”
The Former Playboy Playmate Says Haters Should Start a GoFundMe
Although Wilkinson was proud of her progress, some fans weren’t and directed body-shaming comments at her. Many were targeted at the size of her bosom.
“The boobs make you look heavier. Bring it down a few sizes. You’ll look smaller,” one fan remarked. Another described her as overweight. Clearly displeased by the remarks, the 40-year-old took to her Instagram Stories to give her response.
Alongside a screenshot of the comments, she wrote, “Who’s paying?! You want my Venmo to support this?” In another post, she continued the sentiment, adding, “Until I get my GoFundMe breast reduction money, I’m going to love my boobs the way they are.”
The unkind opinions didn’t stop with another fan writing, “Wow, you aged awfully,” to which Wilkinson replied, “And for the 20,000th time. I’m OK with aging poorly, and I don’t care anymore about male attention,” per The Looker.
Kendra Wilkinson Pushed Back At Critics After Weight Gain
This isn’t the first time the real estate broker has fired back at critics, defending her aging looks. Such was the case earlier this year when it appeared she had gained weight.
According to The Blast, Wilkinson cleared the air in a social media post, admitting she used filters in the past but embraces her natural features.
As a result, she has received barraging comments from some fans who say she ” aged poorly.” The former reality noted she didn’t mind “aging poorly” as she was the “happiest” she had been in years.
Wilkinson then reflected on her controversial past, describing her time on TV as “crazy chaotic” because she was focused on impressing others. Now, she is about giving back to herself
Wilkinson Shares Reason For Using GLP-1 Shots
Amid her journey of pouring into herself, the “Kendra On Top” alum revealed she was joining other Hollywood figures to use weight loss injections.
The mother of two shared her frustrations with shedding pounds despite consistently working out. According to her, it was the tightness of her jeans that sparked the decision.
“I noticed that my jeans are a little tighter lately, so I don’t want to go out and shop anymore,” she revealed, per The Blast. “So I actually signed up for a shot company…”
Wilkinson further elaborated, saying her goal wasn’t to be “skinny,” but to be able to fit well into her jeans.
The TV Personality Took A Jab At Dishonest People
As Wilkinson openly carried fans along on her GLP-1 journey, she couldn’t help but shade those who weren’t being transparent. While announcing her partnership with Effecty, she noted that “unlike most people, [she] is being honest with this journey.”
However, Wilkinson’s announcement was met with mixed reactions from her fans. While some praised her honesty, others offered a rebuttal, saying she didn’t need to join the bandwagon of Hollywood stars.
“Another one falls to the pressure of being a skeleton. Sad,” one fan slammed, per The Blast, urging her to love herself as she is.
As a new chapter in his career begins, Johnny Depp is looking to win back some fans by returning to his best-loved role. In the upcoming sixth film in Disney’s blockbuster franchise, Pirates of the Caribbean, Depp looks set to return to his most iconic role as Captain Jack Sparrow, although it is still unclear whether he will be joined by fellow franchise favorites such as Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley. Although his place in the film isn’t yet confirmed, franchise producer Jerry Bruckheimer did previously hint that a role for Depp’s Sparrow might already be in the script.
As we wait for any concrete confirmation of Depp’s involvement in Pirates 6, a forgotten entry in his filmography is about to become available for free. Based on the book, LAByrinth, by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Randall Sullivan, the 2018 crime thriller City of Lies starred Depp alongside the likes of Oscar winner Forest Whitaker, Rockmond Dunbar, Neil Brown Jr., Xander Berkeley, and more.
Depp stars in the film as Russell Poole, a determined detective trying to piece together the mystery surrounding the infamous death of rap artist Christopher Wallace, aka, The Notorious B.I.G. The movie earned poor reviews from critics, illustrated by a 49% rating on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, but won over fans, with audiences awarding an 86% rating on the same review site. Eight years on from the film’s release, you can catch City of Lies for free, as it becomes available to stream on Plex starting June 1, 2026.
What Is Johnny Depp Doing Next?
Alongside trying to shrug off the consistent controversy following his legal battle with his ex, Amber Heard, Depp has two projects in the pipeline. The first is the upcoming Christmas effort Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol, distributed by Paramount Pictures. Second, and most exciting, is Day Drinker, an action thriller that was recently confirmed to be premiering on March 26, 2027. Day Drinker is officially taking the place of Mel Gibson‘s The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One, which has now been postponed to May 6, 2027. Depp is set to star in the movie alongside Madelyn Cline (Outer Banks), Penélope Cruz (Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides), Manu Ríos (Elite), and more.
City of Lies is streaming on Plex next month. Stay tuned to Collider for all the latest streaming stories.
- Release Date
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March 19, 2021
- Runtime
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112 minutes
Morgan Wallen left fans stunned during a recent stop on his “Still The Problem Tour” after an unexpected onstage moment sent his piano crashing to the ground. The country star was in the middle of performing one of his fan-favorite songs when technical issues appeared to derail the moment, leading to a dramatic reaction that quickly spread across social media.
Wallen was performing “Sand In My Boots” Friday night at Empower Field in Denver when things suddenly took an unexpected turn. In videos circulating online, the country singer could be seen appearing frustrated while standing behind a piano during the emotional performance.
After seemingly experiencing technical difficulties with the instrument, Wallen shoved the piano, causing it to tip forward as parts of it broke off. Fans inside the stadium could be heard gasping as both the piano and bench crashed onto the stage.
Wallen Continued Performing After The Piano Incident
Despite the dramatic moment, Wallen didn’t stop the show. Instead, the “Whiskey Glasses” singer walked away from the damaged instrument and continued performing the remainder of “Sand In My Boots” a cappella for the crowd.
The viral moment comes as Wallen continues his “Still The Problem Tour,” which kicked off with two nights in Minneapolis. He is next set to perform in Pittsburgh on June 5 as he continues touring in support of his fourth studio album, “I’m The Problem,” released last year on May 16.
Morgan Wallen’s Career Hasn’t Been Without Controversy
The onstage incident comes roughly two years after Wallen found himself making headlines for legal troubles in Nashville. The singer was arrested after allegedly throwing a chair off the rooftop of a bar, initially facing three felony reckless endangerment charges along with one misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge.
Wallen later pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor counts of reckless endangerment and agreed to serve seven days in a DUI education center, pay a $350 fine, and complete two years of probation. At the time, reports suggested Wallen had been struggling emotionally following ex Katie “KT” Smith’s marriage to Luke Scornavacco.
Following the Nashville incident, Wallen later publicly addressed the controversy and took responsibility for his actions. “I didn’t feel right public checking in until I made amends with some folks,” he wrote at the time.
The singer added that he had spoken with law enforcement, his family, and staff at Eric Church’s Nashville bar. “I’ve touched base with Nashville law enforcement, my family, and the good people at Chief’s. I’m not proud of my behavior, and I accept responsibility.”
Wallen Previously Addressed His Use Of A Racial Slur
Wallen has also faced intense public scrutiny in the past, particularly after a 2021 video surfaced showing him using a racial slur outside his Nashville home. Months later, the country star addressed the controversy during an interview on “Good Morning America” with Michael Strahan, admitting he understood why fans were hurt and disappointed.
“I was around some of my friends, and we say dumb stuff together,” Wallen said at the time. “And it was, in our minds, it’s playful. That sounds ignorant, but that’s really where it came from. And it’s wrong.”
The singer also acknowledged the backlash he received following the incident, which led to a temporary suspension from his label, radio stations pulling his music, and several consequences at the awards shows. “I was wrong,” Wallen added. “It’s on me.”
During the interview, Wallen said he had spent time educating himself and meeting with Black leaders and organizations in an effort to better understand the harm caused by his actions.
Morgan Wallen’s Career Continues To Climb
Despite past controversies, Wallen remains one of country music’s biggest stars. After first gaining attention on “The Voice” in 2014, the singer went on to release projects including “If I Know Me,” “Dangerous: The Double Album,” and “One Thing At A Time.”
Along the way, he’s earned Grammy nominations and recently took home Best Male Country Artist at the 2026 American Music Awards earlier this month. Now, even amid viral moments and unexpected setbacks, Wallen’s “Still The Problem Tour” appears to be moving full speed ahead.
Entertainment
Robert Redford’s Wild War Movie Is the Thrilling American Action Flick You Need to Watch
Most people scrolling through Robert Redford’s filmography probably pause at Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, nod respectfully at All the President’s Men, maybe throw The Sting on during a lazy Sunday afternoon, then completely glide past The Great Waldo Pepper like it does not exist. Which is understandable, honestly. The title sounds less like an action movie and more like somebody’s uncle who owns a corner store and complains about parking meters. Nothing about it prepares you for Redford dangling thousands of feet in the air inside airplanes that look assembled from spare parts and blind optimism.
The film starts out with a rambling, carefree energy. Redford’s character charms, annoys, lies constantly, and bounces from one half-baked aviation stunt to another. At first, it all plays like a shaggy comedy about a group of aging pilots refusing to grow up. Then the movie gradually reveals something more complicated. These are men who found purpose in World War I, excitement, and camaraderie in the skies years earlier and never really figured out how to replace it afterward. Flying isn’t just a hobby for them…it’s the one place where they still feel like themselves. That is why they keep climbing into airplanes that look one strong gust away from falling apart over a cornfield. After a while, the flying stops feeling adventurous and starts feeling necessary, as if life on the ground never quite gave them what they were looking for.
Robert Redford Turns Barnstorming Into Pure Chaos
Image via Universal Pictures
Redford plays Waldo Pepper, a former pilot making his way through the 1920s one air show at a time. He takes jobs wherever he finds them, spends most of his money almost as quickly as he earns it, and approaches common sense as more of a loose suggestion than a rule. What keeps the character from becoming exhausting is the feeling that Waldo is chasing something larger than attention. The older he gets, the more it seems like he is trying to recapture a version of himself that only ever existed in the cockpit.
The movie follows Waldo as he chases bigger stunts and bigger attention while trying to outrun the quiet reality that the war may have permanently broken something inside him. Once legendary German ace Ernst Kessler (Bo Brundin) enters the story, the tone shifts slightly. Their rivalry never really feels heroic. It feels sad and haunted, like both men miss the war in ways they are deeply uncomfortable admitting out loud.
Director George Roy Hill shoots the flying scenes with alarming confidence. Modern action movies usually cut every three seconds, as if they’re terrified the audience might notice the actors are sitting safely in front of green screens. The Great Waldo Pepper does the opposite by allowing the shot to linger long enough for your stomach to start tightening. These planes creak and wobble, and sometimes they appear as if they are actively debating whether flight is still worth the effort.
One of the later aerial scenes carries a tangible sense of danger that most modern blockbusters cannot match, no matter how much money they throw at visual effects departments. The flying suddenly stops feeling cinematic and starts feeling deeply concerning. Not exciting—dangerous. The kind where your brain starts calculating survival probabilities if things go sideways.
Every Robert Redford Western Movie, Ranked
The #1 movie here might have a title that sounds a bit like “Putsch Placidly and the Folk-Dance Lid.”
The Great Waldo Pepper Feels Weirdly Modern Now
Part of what makes the film work so well by today’s standards is how messy it allows itself to be — Funny one minute, melancholy the next. Then, suddenly, somebody crashes through a wing or barely survives a stunt that should have ended with a funeral. Modern action movies often feel polished, leaving the protagonists within an inch of their lives. Every emotional beat lands exactly where expected. Every character arc arrives gift-wrapped and perfectly timed.
But The Great Waldo Pepper feels loose in a way modern movies usually try to sand down. A little rough around the edges and slightly unpredictable. The tone fits perfectly for a story about people who only seem comfortable when something could go catastrophically wrong. Even the slower scenes feel heavy, as if every actor is shouldering a burden they don’t want to admit exists.
Waldo keeps chasing danger because ordinary life clearly feels too small now. The war gave these men intensity, purpose, adrenaline, and terror all mixed together, and civilian life cannot compete with that. The movie never over explains any of this either. It just lets the emptiness persist between scenes as Waldo keeps throwing himself into the sky, trying not to think too hard.
By the end, the movie stops feeling like an adventure story altogether. It begins to feel like a snapshot of people caught between two versions of America, with one version still romanticizing war heroes while ignoring what came home with them. That is what makes Waldo so interesting. He spends the entire film selling the fantasy of aviation heroism while quietly revealing the cost of living inside that fantasy long after the war and the glory have passed.
- Release Date
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March 13, 1975
- Runtime
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108 minutes
- Director
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George Roy Hill
- Writers
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William Goldman
Entertainment
“Alaskan Bush People” star Matt Brown found dead at 42, brother Noah helped pull body out of river
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The reality TV star’s brother Bear recently said Brown struggled with substance use and had become estranged from his family.
After Criminal Minds kicked off its new season with a surprising loss, showrunner Erica Messer addressed if there would be more onscreen deaths.
During an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Messer weighed in on possible cameos from original Criminal Minds cast members, saying, “I always feel like it’s got to be a big important reason to have those cameos [like a funeral] and right now we don’t have anything that we’re leaning in that direction for this season. No more funerals.”
Messer’s update came after the Thursday, May 28, return of the hit Paramount+ series, showed Luke (Adam Rodriguez) mourning a personal loss while helping the BAU solve a case. It wasn’t until the end of the two-episode premiere that viewers found out his dog, Roxy, had to be put down.
“I don’t think we can ever be prepared anytime anything has ever happened with a beloved character — whether they’re four-legged or not,” Messer explained. “If you don’t have a pet, you certainly know someone who has a pet.”
After 19 seasons, Criminal Minds has found opportunities to kill off beloved characters over the years. Criminal Minds, which premiered in 2005, follows a group of criminal profilers who work for the FBI as members of its Behavioral Analysis Unit. The crime drama explores different fictional cases and shows how behavioral analysis helps the team […]
Messer knew the reveal would hurt for viewers.
“It’s a loss of a family member. And for those who did watch the show in the before times [when it was on CBS], you definitely met Roxy when you first meet Luke early on,” she noted. “It was devastating for all of us to break that story. We all really felt the loss.”
She continued: “I had to warn Adam ahead of time that this is the story where we’re sending your way and it’s going to be really hard. I would say there’s probably not a dry eye when we were doing the read through for it and when we were shooting it and certainly in the screening. Everybody was very moved by that. So I would imagine our audience will feel as moved as the rest of us did.”
Criminal Minds, which premiered in 2005, follows a group of criminal profilers who work for the FBI as members of its Behavioral Analysis Unit. The crime drama explores different fictional cases and shows how behavioral analysis helps the team locate their unknown subjects.
Over the years, the show has faced its fair share of onscreen character deaths. Season 18 shocked viewers when Josh Stewart left after playing the role of Will since 2007.
Looking ahead at the rest of season 19, Messer teased the vision for this season.
“It is this idea of new beginnings. It’s been a year in our story world,” the screenwriter noted to Us. “So there are new challenges that they’re faced with — but there’s also a little bit of hope in that. It has the potential for better things to come.”
New episodes of Criminal Minds: Evolution air Thursdays on Paramount+.
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