Entertainment
‘The Rookie’s Most Controversial Series Twist Is a Game-Changing Shake-Up
Police procedurals thrive on formula, but even the most reliable shows need to shake things up once in a while. The Rookie has done exactly that through its documentary-style episodes, a recurring gimmick that began in Season 3 with “True Crime” and has returned almost every season since. These mockumentary-style episodes parody true-crime docuseries, framing Mid-Wilshire officers as talking heads while weaving in body cam footage and 911 calls.
For many fans, though, these are the most hated installments of the show. Scroll through Reddit threads or TikTok comments, and you’ll find plenty of complaints about the episodes being boring, convoluted, or even immersion-breaking. And yet, despite the criticism, there’s a strong case to be made that The Rookie’s documentary episodes are far more effective than they get credit for — aside from one subpar episode in Season 7 that shows what happens when the format goes too far.
Why ‘The Rookie’ Documentary Episodes Work So Well
The central complaint against the docu-episodes is that they’re gimmicks, unnecessary departures from the regular balance of drama and comedy. But that’s exactly what makes them worthwhile. Police procedurals can easily fall into repetitive patterns, and a one-off format change breaks up the rhythm without derailing the overall story.
In their best versions — like Season 3’s “True Crime” and Season 4’s “Real Crime” — the episodes offer an outsider’s perspective on the Mid-Wilshire division. The officers are suddenly self-conscious, aware of how they appear on camera, which adds texture to characters we think we know well. Fans get glimpses of how Lucy Chen (Melissa O’Neil), Nyla Harper (Mekia Cox), or Tim Bradford (Eric Winter) see themselves versus how the world sees them. It’s both comedic and revealing, and the satire of true-crime obsession gives the show a chance to poke fun at itself.
On top of that, the documentary framing lets the writers lean into bizarre, idiosyncratic cases without breaking the tone of the main series. Instead of dragging out a standard case-of-the-week, the mockumentary structure gives permission for the show to play, whether that means absurd interviews, outlandish side characters, or offbeat narrative devices. In short, they’re filler episodes that don’t feel like filler.
A perfect example of the second installment of the documentary-style series, titled “Real Crime,” which delves deep into Aaron Thorsen’s (Tru Valentino) backstory. With the weight of his troubled past still a large part of his life and a reputation to build, Aaron ultimately agrees to participate in a reality series that promises to rebrand him. What appears to be an opportunity to rebuild his image devolves into chaos when the producer of the reality show is murdered on camera, with Aaron once again in the crosshairs of suspicion. The case examined in the show also implicates Aaron’s own complicated relationship with Rowan (Luke Cosgrove), his manipulative friend who had been running drugs on the side.
What is most interesting about “Real Crime,” however, is how the documentary gimmick engages in character development. We hear Aaron’s squadmates express their doubts and support through the interviews, all culminating in Rowan being exposed as the actual killer of Patrick (Timothy Taratchila) — Thorsen’s dead best friend — and Morris (Rome Flynn). At the end of Aaron’s story, he receives validation from his coworkers and Patrick’s grieving father, thereby giving the format meaning beyond the stylistic flair.
‘The Rookie’s Documentary Episodes Are Worth It — Even if Season 7 Stumbled
To be fair, critics of the documentary episodes aren’t wrong about everything. The biggest issue is the glaring plot hole: If Lucy and Harper appear in a nationally released true-crime docuseries, how can they believably go undercover in later episodes of The Rookie? The series has never addressed this, and it strains credibility when characters who rely on anonymity are suddenly recognizable to anyone who binge-watches true crime on Hulu.
Even with that flaw, though, the docu-episodes have mostly been fun experiments — though Season 7’s “A Deadly Secret” was a miss. This episode tried to cram in every possible subplot, from a missing ex-fiancée to a haunted psychiatric ward to an AI named Zuzu. The result was chaotic and disjointed, losing the charm of earlier mockumentary episodes. While there was one highlight — a heartfelt Chenford moment triggered by a truth serum — the episode’s messy plotting showed how the gimmick can backfire when it’s overloaded.
Instead of giving us a sharp parody or a quirky detour, “A Deadly Secret” collapsed under the weight of its own tangled storylines. It’s the rare case where fan complaints about the format being “boring” or “too much” really rang true.
Documentary Episodes of ‘The Rookie’ Are a Fun Break From the Drama
Despite their divisive reception, the documentary episodes remain some of the most memorable in the series. They’re conversation starters, even among viewers who don’t like them. They parody the cultural fascination with true crime, they give characters unexpected moments of vulnerability, and they prove that The Rookie is willing to take risks rather than stick to a procedural comfort zone.
‘The Rookie’ Completely Shocked Us in Just 3 Unexpected Minutes
Nathan Fillion’s long-running ABC drama left us speechless.
The Season 7 stumble shouldn’t automatically mean that the format doesn’t work. Used sparingly and with focus, the mockumentary episodes still have value. If anything, the writers should refine them: Tighten the stories, acknowledge the undercover plot hole, and resist the temptation to overload the format with too many callbacks or side characters. Because when they work, The Rookie’s documentary episodes aren’t the show’s weakest link — they’re proof that even in a genre built on formula, experimentation can pay off.
- Release Date
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October 16, 2018
- Showrunner
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Alexi Hawley
- Directors
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Tori Garrett, Chi-Yoon Chung, Michael Goi, Sylvain White, Lisa Demaine, Lanre Olabisi, Bill Johnson, David McWhirter, Liz Friedlander, Daniel Willis, Toa Fraser, Anne Renton, Jon Huertas, Cherie Nowlan, TK Shom, Rob Seidenglanz, Valerie Weiss, Barbara Brown, Charissa Sanjarernsuithikul, SJ Main Muñoz, Nelson McCormick, Marcus Stokes, Adam Davidson, Anna Mastro
- Writers
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Corey Miller, Bill Rinier, Zoe Cheng, Mary Trahan, Ally Seibert, Liz Alper, Nick Hurwitz, Racheal Seymour, Madeleine Coghlan, David Radcliff
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It’s no secret that Steven Spielberg is a renowned filmmaker. His name is attached to many projects and was nominated for numerous Academy Awards for Best Director or Best Picture. But there was one film where the famous director was not involved, except for story origin credits, that people have been revisiting on streaming services.
Ever since Spielberg began his career in 1959, he has worked on many projects, some of which are still beloved to this day, such as Jurassic Park and the Indiana Jones franchise. Earlier this week, Spielberg released a new film called Disclosure Day, starring Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor, Colin Firth, Colman Domingo, and Wyatt Russell. Also attached to the project is Jurassic Park writer David Koepp. As Disclosure Day inched closer, fans have been revisiting this nostalgic ’80s classic.
The Goonies was a 1985 adventure comedy film based on a story written by Spielberg and produced by the filmmaker’s production company, Amblin Entertainment, and recently, it found a place on the streaming charts. The Goonies landed at #6 on Pluto TV’s Top Movies in the United States, sitting between Men in Black and Scary Movie. The Goonies follows a group of boys who call themselves “The Goonies” as they come across a map that leads to treasure that belonged to the pirate “One-Eyed Willy.” The boys embark on this adventure in hopes that this hidden fortune could save their homes. Since its release, The Goonies has grossed over $65 million worldwide and has been praised by many, earning a 77% critics’ score and a 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
What To Watch If You Like ‘The Goonies’
Years after The Goonies release, there were talks about a possible sequel. In 2024, Spielberg revealed that there were conversations about bringing The Goonies back together, and reports indicated that the project would move forward. However, it’s likely that a Goonies sequel may not see the light of day, so if you’re after something with a similar plot and feel, there are other titles worth watching that bring that child-whimsy feeling to your screens.
The first title that comes to mind is Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, which has been compared to The Goonies for its coming-of-age adventure. The series follows a group of children who accidentally leave their home planet aboard a mysterious starship and become lost. As they search for a way back home, a Force-sensitive user, Jod Na Nawood, played by Jude Law, aids them in their journey as they face pirates, soldiers, and other dangers in a galaxy far, far away.
But if you’re looking for a Spielberg film, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is well worth watching, or re-watching. Released in 1982 and directed by Spielberg, the film follows 10-year-old Elliott (Henry Thomas), who befriends a stranded alien and helps him find a way home before government agents can take him away.
The Goonies is available to stream on Pluto TV. Follow Collider for more updates.
- Release Date
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June 7, 1985
- Runtime
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114 minutes
- Director
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Richard Donner
- Producers
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Harvey Bernhard
The Kardashian klan are celebrating Kim’s boyfriend, Lewis Hamilton’s, first Formula 1 victory for Ferrari.
After claiming the win at the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix in Montmeló on Sunday, June 14, the race car driver’s girlfriend, 45, took to her Instagram Stories to share a photo of her man being cheered on by his team. She stamped her support on the image by pasting a gold trophy emoji next to a red heart emoji.
Over on Khloe Kardashian’s Instagram Stories, Kim’s daughter Chicago West, 8, was seen jumping up and down while squealing in front of the TV screen with her cousin, Khloe’s daughter, True, also 8, as they watched Hamilton, 41, take out the win. (Kim shares daughters Chicago and North, as well as sons Saint and Psalm with ex-husband Kanye West.)
Another Instagram Story shared by Khloe, 41, captured Chicago and True posing for a photo together in front of the TV, both winking for the camera as they smiled.
Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton recently stepped out together in Tokyo, Us Weekly has learned. Kardashian, 45, and Hamilton, 41, were spotted walking side by side on a crowded sidewalk in Japan on Sunday, March 22, according to social media footage. The Skims mogul rocked a gray dress with over-the-knee heeled boots, while Hamilton kept […]
Khloe, who attended the Monaco Grand Prix with Kim to support Hamilton earlier this month, also shared footage of Hamilton addressing his victory during a post-race press conference. “Let’s goooooooooo,” she captioned the clip before adding a photo of the athlete standing atop a podium.
Us Weekly confirmed in February that Kim and Hamilton had evolved their long-time friendship into a romance. While sources at the time revealed that the pair had been on “a few dates,” the couple got more serious by the beginning of this month when Kim went Instagram official with Hamilton.
Chicago and True Courtesy of Khloe Kardashian/Instagram
On Sunday, June 7, a social media clip showed Hamilton walking toward a group of Monaco Grand Prix spectators before finding Kim and kissing her on the cheek and pulling her in for an embrace. The PDA-filled moment was later followed by Hamilton’s first public comments regarding the relationship.
Kim Kardashian Mark Sutton – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images
“It’s amazing to have her come this weekend and have the support,” he told reporters at the time. “But, you know, with my friends, incredible turnout, just overall, the people. It’s amazing to have good people around you and good people supporting you, and she does that for me every day.”
After Hamilton finished second in that race, Formula 1’s official Instagram account shared a video of Kim filming him during his trophy presentation. The clip caught Hamilton appearing to blow Kim a kiss after he received his award.
Lewis Hamilton Clive Mason/Getty Images
Kim shared glimpses of her experience in Monaco via her Instagram grid, capturing several outings with Khloe trackside, on a luxurious vessel and along the French Riviera. In one carousel, the sisters wore matching Ferrari-red earmuffs, while another photo showed Kim puckering up to kiss one of Hamilton’s race helmets. “Monaco memories,” Kim captioned the carousel, which attracted an “I love us” comment from Khloe.
Though it’s been almost a decade since Game of Thrones wrapped up its phenomenally successful run, the universe it launched has continued, primarily through its acclaimed successor, House of the Dragon. Created by George R. R. Martin and Ryan Condal, the Game of Thrones prequel is the second television series adapted from Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire novels and is based on the fictional history Fire & Blood, beginning a century after the Targaryen conquest unites the Seven Kingdoms, and chronicling the rise and fall of House Targaryen, from its golden age to a catastrophic civil war called the Dance of the Dragons.
Since its premiere in 2022, House of the Dragon has become as popular and acclaimed as its predecessor, sometimes more, and the franchise has recently expanded to include the new series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. The series has also spawned a podcast that has developed a community of its own, and in June 2026, House of the Dragon will debut new ASL versions of its latest seasons, beginning with Season 2. Read on to discover everything the Game of Thrones universe has in store for fans in June 2026.
1
‘House Of the Dragon’ Season 2 (ASL Version)
Release Date: June 15, 2026
House of the Dragon opened to great success when it premiered in 2022, often surpassing the initial rankings of its parent show. The Game of Thrones prequel was instantly greenlit for a second season, which premiered in 2024, a third season, premiering in 2026, and an upcoming fourth and final season, arriving sometime in 2028. The second season of House of the Dragon explores the beginning of the Targaryen civil war, aka the Dance of the Dragons, and what it costs the people of Westeros.
In May 2026, as a celebration of Global Awareness Day, HBO Max announced the streaming debut of the House of the Dragon ASL (American Sign Language) version. An ASL version of Season 1 was released soon after, which will be followed by Season 2’s ASL version on June 15, 2026. The ASL dubbing is performed by Sophia Morales and Justin Jackerson, with the latter serving as the Director of ASL across all seasons. The ASL debut of House of the Dragon adds to the streamer’s ASL initiative that began in 2023 with Barbie.
2
‘The Official Game of Thrones Podcast: House Of The Dragon’ Season 3
Release Date: June 21, 2026
The Official Game of Thrones Podcast: House of the Dragon debuted alongside the prequel show, taking the Game of Thrones franchise in yet another new direction. Since 2022, the podcast has become a go-to audio destination for fans to discuss and debate all aspects of the eponymous franchise, with a focus on House of the Dragon, and it serves as a companion to the hit series. After two successful seasons, the podcast will be back with House of the Dragon Season 3 on June 21, 2026.
Hosted by pop culture experts Jason Concepcion and Greta Johnsen, each podcast episode features interviews with cast members, writers, and directors, including the likes of George R.R. Martin, Olivia Cooke, and Kit Harington. The new season of the podcast, running simultaneously with the TV season, will unpack the massive battles, anticipated events, and character arcs. The Official Game of Thrones Podcast: House of the Dragon Season 3 marks the first time that the podcast will be available to stream in video format, streaming simultaneously with the television series.
3
‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3 (with ASL Version)
Release Date: June 21, 2026
Following the success, acclaim, and popularity of the first two seasons, HBO’s House of the Dragon is all set to debut its third season this June, with greater accessibility. The prequel’s new season explores the next chapter of the brutal war of succession, featuring dragon battles and relentless bloodbaths. Matt Smith, Emma D’Arcy, Olivia Cooke, Steve Toussaint, Rhys Ifans, Fabien Frankel, and Sonoya Mizuno reprise their main roles from the last two seasons.
House of the Dragon Season 3 is expected to feature one of the biggest battles in the Game of Thrones franchise — the Battle of Gullet, a naval conflict — followed by more explosive consequences that collectively shape the Targaryen civil war. The season will premiere on Sunday, June 21, 2026, accompanied by an ASL version, becoming the first season of the hit show to have ASL episodes running concurrently. And even after the eight-episode third season, fans still have plenty to look forward to, like the show’s fourth and final season, expected to debut in 2028, and new seasons of the franchise’s latest hit, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. The entire Game of Thrones universe, including all seasons of Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon, and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, is currently streaming on HBO Max.
House of the Dragon
- Release Date
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August 21, 2022
- Network
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HBO
- Showrunner
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George R.R. Martin
- Directors
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Clare Kilner, Geeta Patel
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Fabien Frankel
Ser Criston Cole
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We all know that men are notoriously difficult to shop for — and dads certainly fall into the mix. Now that Father’s Day is one week away, you’re probably struggling to think of something to buy your dad, husband or another father figure in your life. Fortunately, we did the work for you by finding thoughtful, practical and exciting Father’s Day gifts on Amazon that’ll arrive in just two days with Prime shipping.
From sleek and comfy running shoes to an electric meat thermometer to a luxe sleep mask, there’s something here for everyone. You’ll even find seemingly boring yet practical items, like a set of minimalist cotton T-shirts for the dad who just isn’t into gifts. And even though you’re shopping last-minute, these Father’s Day gifts don’t feel like an afterthought. Start shopping now before it’s too late!
Last Minute Father’s Day Gifts
$130
For The Tech Obsessed
For the dad who is constantly juggling multiple tech items at a time, this wireless charging pad is a practical and thoughtful gift. It has space to charge an iPhone, AirPods and an Apple Watch all at the same time. The slim profile hides cords and makes a cluttered space feel more organized.
$40
For The Foodie
Let’s be honest: anyone would be thrilled to receive this umami-packed condiment trio, thought up by the chefs behind the popular Momofuku brand. The set includes a soy sauce, chili crunch and seasoned salt, and all three can be used in so many different dishes and cooking methods. Plus, they’re made of impressive ingredients and come in attractive jars.
$130
For The Car Lover
This scanning tool is perfect for the dad who never wants to ask anyone else for help – even if he needs it. It quickly reads a car’s trouble codes to diagnose exactly what’s wrong with it. It then gives unlimited repair reports and even monitors the health of the vehicle while you’re driving. Think of it like having a little car mechanic by your side, telling you what to do.
$38
For The Overworked Dad
If he needs a little extra sleep, this luxe sleep mask is designed to help them get their beauty rest. The weighted feel adds just the right amount of pressure to calm you down, while the fabric has a blackout effect that prevents any light from waking you up.
You save: 10%
$45$50
For the Gardener
If they’re regularly in the yard gardening and weeding, this garden kneeler is a must. The cushioned base is much more comfortable than the ground and acts as both a spot to kneel and a seat so you don’t have to bend over, depending on which way it’s flipped. It also has sturdy handles to grab onto and comes with removable side pouches for stashing gardening tools.
Dads are notoriously difficult to shop for, but the last thing we’re going to do is resort to a run-of-the-mill coffee mug. So, I gathered the best Father’s Day gifts — under $50! — that he would be thrilled to receive. Whether he is into grilling, travel, fitness or, well, doesn’t really have any hobbies […]
$129
For the Commuter
With a minimalist design and overall sleek look, this backpack is both stylish and rich-looking. Multiple compartments make the large interior space super organized, while the straps allow it to convert from a backpack to a tote bag. This can be used for commuting, traveling and everything in between.
$115
For the Chef
There’s a reason Caraways Nonstick Ceramic Pans are a favorite among celebrity chefs, food influencers and the like. They’re durable, they make cleanup easy and they look nice enough to leave out on display. This mini fry pan is perfect for everyday cooking, whether they’re making some eggs or sauteeing vegetables. It’s a go-to option for home cooks.
$90
For the Tailgater
Perfect for the dad who likes to be able to grill his favorites on the go, this charcoal grill is portable enough to be used when tailgating, at the beach or on the boat. It has a steel cooking grate for easy cleaning and charcoal goodness, with a sturdy porcelain-lined bowl and lid. Plus, the handle on top makes it easy to tote around.
$53
For the Golfer
Golfing comes with a lot of stuff, and if the dad in your life is a fan, chances are good that their car is full of accessories taking up space. This trunk organizer features multiple pockets for organizing tees, balls, sunglasses and more, along with a large bottom compartment with adjustable dividers for clothing. There’s even a separated shoe compartment with space for three pairs of shoes and a pouch for your phone. Sturdy handles make it easy to carry around and it collapses flat when not in use to make more space in the trunk.
You save: 31%
$18$26
For the New Dad
Let the new dad in your life show their pride for their little one. Perfect for the dad who wants everyone to know about the newest blessing in his life, this baseball cap proudly announces his title of “dad.” It also has a comfortable fit and lived in feel that will make a daily go-to on casual days.
You save: 10%
$18$20
For the Handyman
The dad who is constantly fixing things around the house or at work probably already has so many tools that they don’t need anymore. But something like this magnetic wristband can be a clever and thoughtful option. This can be worn around their wrist and is the perfect spot for stashing tiny nails, screws and nuts that could otherwise get lost in seconds. It keeps everything within easy reach and has an adjustable and comfortable fit.
You save: 25%
$75$100
For the BBQ King
This hi-tech meat thermometer will make anyone feel like a pro in the kitchen, even if they’re just grilling up some hamburgers. Unlike regular thermometers, this connects to a phone via Bluetooth and works alongside an app full of helpful information. When you get the temperature read on a piece of meat, the app will tell you how much longer it needs for the best results. It can also handle up to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit, so it can stay stuck in the meat the entire time you’re cooking, ensuring you can’t forget about it.
$35
For the Busy Dad On The Go
If your dad doesn’t already have an Owala water bottle, now is the time to get them one – even if they don’t realize just how trendy they are. This FreeSip option allows you to drink through a straw or by tipping it back, you can lock it so it won’t leak, and it fits in most cup holders. Plus, it comes in lots of really nice colors.
$110
For the Reader
The classic frames of these reading glasses make them feel incredibly cool and on-trend. The hard coating on the lens helps to prevent scratches, and they’re super comfortable to wear because they’re so lightweight. They’re so cool, in fact, that they’ll want to wear them even when there’s no reading being done.
$168
For the Active Dad
Upgrade his old gym sneakers with these sleek On sneakers. Cushioning absorbs impact and feels good and a bouncy sole makes these feel like you’re walking on clouds. They’re super lightweight and they require zero breaking in. They’re perfect for running or hitting the gym, but they’re so stylish that they can be worn on an everyday basis too.
You save: 40%
$15$25
For the Stylish Dad
Make the dad in your life look chic for the summer with this rich-looking polo shirt. It’s an inexpensive find that looks and feels so luxe, made from a lightweight and soft fabric. The texture, the cut and the v-neck collar give this Euro-summer vibes in the best way possible.
$30
For the Tool Hoarder
Buying for someone who has so many tools they don’t even know what to do with them? This roll-up tool bag is an excellent and space-saving storage option. It’s super spacious, with four large zippered pockets and two smaller removable pockets for tiny items you don’t want to misplace. It rolls up to a much more compact size with handles, so it’s perfect for taking on the go.
You save: 25%
$18$24
For the Practical Dad
Stick with the basics if you’re buying for a dad who is too practical to really enjoy anything that could be considered frivolous. This pack of Hanes t-shirts comes with six neutral-colored options, all of which are lightweight, breathable and versatile. They can be worn as undershirts or on their own on casual days.
$70
For the Dad Who’s Hard to Shop For
No idea what to buy? Stick with a tried and true favorite for everyone: a super soft hoodie that can be worn over and over again. This half-zip Carhartt is comfy and cozy, and is perfect for chilly summer nights or sunsets on the beach, but can also be worn all year long. Pick between an array of colors, like plain neutrals or more bold hues.
Celebrating dad is easy, but shopping for him can be difficult — especially when the fathers in your life have their own distinct interests, personalities and ways they like to spend their time. In 2026, Father’s Day lands on June 21. Now is the time to start shopping for those Father’s Day gifts that are […]
Glen Powell and Landman actress Michelle Randolph’s romance keeps, quite literally, heating up.
Powell, 37, and Randolph, 28, were seen packing on the PDA in New York City, according to photos obtained by online gossip site DeuxMoi on Sunday, June 14. The two actors twinned in white T-shirts as they passionately embraced on a street corner in the Big Apple. Powell also donned a pair of sunglasses as he bent his head to make out with Randolph.
Us Weekly broke the news in December 2025 that Powell and Randolph had started seeing one another.
“They started seeing where things would go around October and have been trying to keep it under the radar for almost two months now,” a source exclusively told Us Weekly at the time, noting that the pair were “having fun” in their casual romance.
While Powell and Randolph have since been spotted together on multiple occasions, the duo have kept quiet about the details of their whirlwind fling.
“I think, for peace of mind, those are really important for me to keep separate,” Randolph told InStyle in a January profile. “How people perceive you publicly is not who you are. It’s hard to not [read the comments] because it’s so in our face, and everyone’s online, so you see things that you don’t necessarily want to, and then it puts you in a bad mood for the rest of the day or hurts your feelings. It’s not smart to let that define you because that’s not real.”
Randolph previously dated Disney Channel alum Gregg Sulkin from 2018 to 2023, later deciding to keep quiet about her love life after watching her sister Cassie Randolph’s experience on The Bachelor unfold. (Cassie, now 30, appeared on Colton Underwood’s season in 2019 and they dated for more than a year before he publicly came out as gay. Cassie and Underwood, now 34, are each married to new partners.)
“I don’t want to share what it is I’ve probably learned,” Michelle told the magazine about Cassie’s reality TV stint. “I don’t think anything good comes from that because it’s your personal life. It should be personal and reserved for yourself and those who are close to you. So, ironically, I think I’ve learned that I want to keep it private.”
Instead of fans hyperfixating on her relationship status, Michelle hopes that her acting work can speak for itself.
“I love my job. I’m well-intentioned,” she stressed at the time. “I just love what I do, and I hope I get to do it forever.”
As for Powell, he has been single since 2023 after ending his three-year relationship with model Gigi Paris.
“I will always have nothing but love for her and respect for her,” the Top Gun: Maverick star told GQ in September 2025 about his breakup. “Everybody’s always going to have their own narrative on things and all that, and she’s welcome to it. Relationships are really hard. And when two people break up, they each go to their own brunch, and they will each tell their own narrative.”
Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
Cindy Crawford has set the cool-girl style standard for decades, and her latest swimsuit style proves why. Forget trendy cutouts and barely-there strings. She reaches for a sleek one-piece that flatters, sculpts and lets her natural confidence shine, and we found a similar option on sale for just $36!
The supermodel posted a photo on Instagram wearing a black one-piece swimsuit, elevated with luxe hardware details, layered under a drapey cover-up and topped with oversized sunglasses. The vibe? Old Hollywood meets modern beach club — which is exactly what you’ll get with the B2prity One Piece Swimsuit.
Get the B2prity One Piece Swimsuit for $36 (was $38) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
This affordable find delivers serious flattery, thanks to ruched tummy-control fabric that smooths in all the right places. The push-up cups and V-neckline add lift and shape, and the U-shaped hardware detail gives it that designer-inspired edge Crawford clearly loves.
If you love vacation, but stress about finding something chic and flattering to wear, Jessica Alba has you covered. She’s always been pro at dressing trendy without looking too juvenile — a.k.a. the perfect mix for a 45-year-old, cool mom of two — leaning into pieces that elevate yet still seem effortless. Her Miami getaway […]
Better yet, the straps stay put when you’re actually swimming. This one-piece is your new summer uniform for cruise days, resort vacations or that backyard pool party where you want to look and feel like a model. Reviewers rave that this swimsuit actually delivers on its tummy-control promise without feeling like a corset.
One happy shopper called it “a win for moms.”
“So comfortable and cute!” they wrote. “True to size, soft material, very flattering on a mom body! Just the right amount of ruching to hide my mom pooch without looking like a maternity suit. Great for feeling pretty while also chasing kids around!”
Pair it with a flowy cover-up, gold hoops and the biggest sunglasses you own or add a wide-brimmed sun hat for an even richer look. Regardless, this black swimsuit makes you appear classy, slim and Cindy Crawford-cool, and your wallet barely feels it. Sold!
Get the B2prity One Piece Swimsuit for $36 (was $38) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more one-piece swimsuits and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
Hollywood stars, influencers and musicians are reacting to the tragic and untimely death of singer Oliver Tree.
On the morning of June 14, two helicopters reportedly crashed into one another mid-air while traveling in southwest Rio De Janeiro, according to a same-day report from CNN Brazil. According to the outlet, Tree was one of six people who died in the crash — all five traveling in one helicopter, and the solo-traveling and pilot in the second helicopter. He was 32.
Additional information surrounding the fatal crash was not made public at the time of publication. Us Weekly reached out to a representative for Tree for comment but did not hear back.
Tree, known for songs “Life Goes On” and “Miss You” and amassing more than 2 million social media followers, recently traveled to Brazil for his world tour. He performed in São Paulo on June 6 and was scheduled to play a set in Lisbon, Portugal, on July 13.
In the wake of his untimely death, Hollywood took to social media to pay its respects. Read how stars and influencers reacted and their touching tributes below:
Bebe Rexha
“I’m in shock,” she wrote via X. “I was in the middle of my cd signing in nyc when I found the news of Oliver tree. I can’t believe it. We recorded a record together to be on dirty blonde. He was so smart. Passionate. Talented. Kind. I’m so sad. May he rest in peace.”
Whitney Cummings
“Oliver is one of the most talented people on earth and usually that comes with an ego and all kinds of dickhead nonsense, but Oliver is pure love and the best version of what an artist can and should be,” the comedian shared via Instagram alongside photos of the pair smiling for the camera. “There’s no silver lining. We lost a giant.”
US singer Oliver Tree Getty Images
Bobbi Althoff
“What an honor it was to get to know you, Oliver,” the podcaster and influencer wrote via Instagram shortly after the singer’s death. “I’m so sad to hear this news. The world is so cruel. Rest in peace.”
Ethan Klein
“I’m in disbelief… still desperate to think this is part of an elaborate prank. That seems like something he’d do, right? The truth is, no matter how desperate I am to not believe it, my friend Oliver has passed away,” the YouTuber wrote in a lengthy and emotional post shared via X. “Oliver was such a unique soul, he had an ability that was e I know; to make friends in all corners of the world. Sincere friendship too, not just internet friendships of convenience.”
She continued, “He was one of the funniest people I’ve ever known. His style of self-deprecation was universal. Every media appearance he’s ever done was hilarious, refreshing and unique in a way that only he could bring. He was a true artist, in every sense of the world.”
Courtesy of Chris O’Donnell/Instagram; Courtesy of Kyle Marisa Roth/Instagram The deaths of several online stars have shaken the TikTok and influencer community — and broken the hearts of countless fans — over the years. Taylor Rousseau Grigg died in October 2024 at the age of 25 after battling undisclosed medical issues. Her husband, Cameron Grigg, […]
Klein concluded his online tribute by describing Tree as a “dear friend and collaborator.”
“But the real tragedy is that the word lost a true artist, a passionate and gifted storyteller, and a radiant light that shined upon so many of us,” he added. “His light is now extinguished and my life, and the world, is darker for it. I hope I can be more like Oliver Tree when I grow up. Bon voyage, my friend. See you on the other side. Life goes on and on and on without you.”
Faze Banks
“‘Life is short and everything is temporary so put yourself first and focus on what will make you happy cause everything else is out of your hands!’” the influencer wrote via X, quoting his friend while sharing what appeared to be a recent text message exchange between the pair. “RIP Oliver Tree, beautiful soul.”
Andy Milonakis
“RIP Oliver Tree,” the actor wrote via X. “I don’t know how to process this, I’m glad I got to spend a lot of time with him last month but this s*** sucks. Life is fragile and unfair.”
Johnnie Guilbert
“I can’t believe what I just heard about Oliver trees [sic] passing,” the alt rock musician and YouTuber wrote via Instagram. “We just filmed a few videos with him recently and he was truly such a nice guy I felt really was going to be a long time friend. I’m f***ing heartbroken this doesn’t feel real.”
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Wardrobe panic is real — but add in warmer temps and the pressure to find something that makes you feel cool, calm and confident can be even more of a struggle. You want something feminine and pretty for vacation or Saturday morning farmer’s markets, but the thought of squeezing into something tight in 90-degree heat makes you want to cancel the whole trip.
Enter the Prettygarden Flowy Maxi Dress. It has quietly become a summer obsession on Amazon with over 1,100 five-star ratings. It’s the sleeveless spaghetti-strap maxi with the ruffle hem you keep seeing on your feed, and there’s a reason it keeps popping up. One shopper put it perfectly: “I just wanted to feel feminine on up coming trip but can’t stand feeling uncomfortable. This dress is wonderful.”
Get the Prettygarden Flowy Maxi Dress for $47 on Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
Here’s the magic: The Prettygarden Flowy Maxi Dress cinches where you want definition and skims everywhere else. The bodice nips in at the waist, then the skirt flows out into that romantic ruffled hem that moves beautifully when you walk.
The light blue hue gives it that breezy, garden-party energy, but it comes in enough colors that you’ll absolutely want a second (or third). One reviewer summed up the flattering fit: “It snatches at the waist and glides over the areas you want to conceal very nicely,” adding, “It easily took off 10-15 lbs. I highly recommend this dress.”
The styling possibilities are part of the appeal. Wear it solo with sandals for a beach dinner. Layer a denim jacket over it for cooler nights.
And if you’re the type who rarely buys dresses? You’re in good company. “Just so you know how picky I am, this is the ONLY dress in my closet,” one reviewer admitted. “I usually don’t wear them but I took a chance based on pictures brave women put on line of them wearing it.”
At under $50, the Prettygarden Flowy Maxi Dress is the rare summer piece that delivers on every front: comfortable, flattering, photo-ready and genuinely fun to wear. Stock it for vacation now before your size sells out!
Get the Prettygarden Flowy Maxi Dress for $47 on Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
If there’s one thing we can count on, it’s that warm weather means wedding invitations are heading your way. After all, spring and summer are peak wedding seasons, so if you don’t have an outfit to wear just yet, keep reading. We found a gorgeous wedding guest dress that thousands of Amazon shoppers can’t stop […]
Entertainment
Netflix Has a 100% Rotten Tomatoes Horror Movie That’s a Masterclass in Psychological Warfare
The horror genre is having quite the moment, as evident with the massive success of Backrooms and Obsession. But if you don’t feel like venturing to the theater, Netflix has plenty of options to choose from. To finally come across Luis Javier Henaine’s Disappear Completely, one has to dig deep — almost as deep as the movie’s main character in his search for a cure to the curse that threatens to turn him into a kind of living corpse, a karmic punishment for his own misdeeds as a photojournalist specialized in crime scenes.
Disappear Completely premiered in 2022 at Austin’s Fantastic Fest, and landed on Netflix in April 2024. While it made its way to the streamer’s Top 10 in its native Mexico, it has struggled to find an audience in other countries where it is readily available. Henaine’s film has a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and it is indeed a gem that deserves to be seen.
What Is ‘Disappear Completely’ About?
The film, which relies more on psychological horror than on traditional jumpscares, is a character study surrounding a man’s relationship with his profession and his family. The premise is creative and terrifying from the get-go: Santiago (Harold Torres), a photojournalist who sells pictures of crimes and accidents to tabloids, falls victim to a curse after shooting a particularly gruesome scene featuring a still living, but completely unresponsive politician partly devoured by rats. Unbeknownst to him, Santiago’s camera has captured the presence of a demonic entity that traps him in the same web as the senator (Juan Sahagun) he just photographed. Little by little, Santiago starts to lose all of his five senses.
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These crime thrillers go above and beyond to tell their story.
As Santiago races against time to find a cure for his predicament, going from doctors to shamans to the very demon that has hexed him, his girlfriend, Marce (Tete Espinoza), faces troubles of her own. Pregnant with Santiago’s child, she wishes to have the baby and build a happy family. However, Santiago claims that they are not ready to have a child, and pressures her to have an abortion. This relationship with Marce and his unborn baby ends up being essential to how Santiago deals with his curse.
Mixing an urban vibe with folk horror, Disappear Completely is a movie that dabbles in witchcraft, superstition, and politics, with the cursed senator having been victimized by a political rival. However, the focus of the plot is Santiago himself. The movie asks us to place ourselves in his shoes, forcing us to wonder what it would feel like to be in such a terrifying predicament. The final scenes make this invitation to identify with the main character all the more obvious: as Santiago is losing his sense of hearing, we can barely understand the sounds around him. Eventually, in the blink of an eye, the whole movie goes quiet. As he loses his sight, the image becomes blurry, until it… disappears completely.
‘Disappear Completely’s Director Was Intentional About Creating a Personal Film
Director Luis Javier Henaine was intentional in creating an immersive, realistic experience for the audience while filming Disappear Completely, as he shared during an interview with Eye For Film. Rather than relying on jump scares or musical cues, he aimed to “make a more personal film with more down to earth issues,” while still balancing the element of witchcraft and folk horror. He said:
“Here in Mexico, witchcraft is something that people take very seriously and something very, very real for the majority of our population. And I like to reflect that in a way. So, all the time, I was trying to say, ‘Okay, this has to look real, this has to feel real, this has to be very realistic.’ And that’s how I tried to go throughout the whole film, with the production design and with the cinematography and with everything. Our references were real things, how people behave in these environments. . . ”
Placing the audience in Santiago’s shoes is one of the reasons Disappear Completely is so unnerving — it feels personal. At the heart of the film is Santiago’s struggles with being a potential father and a supportive partner for Marce. When reading the script, Henaine envisioned “a very immersive filmmaking style,” one that would make the audience active participants rather than passive observers of Santiago’s slow descent into a tomb of his own flesh. “I thought it would be great to just when, when he starts losing his sense of hearing, just play slowly with the whole film as well, make it subjective, put the audience in the character’s mind,” Henaine explained.
‘Disappear Completely’ Presents Photography as the Ultimate Horror
Disappear Completely presents us with a kind of horror that would be disturbing no matter who it befell. Still, when we take into consideration Santiago’s profession, the film gains additional layers. At the same time that Henaine and his fellow screenwriter Ricardo Aguado-Fentanes ask us to identify with Santiago in his plight, they also make it pretty clear that he is someone we should despise. Santiago is not a tabloid photographer because that’s the only job he can find — he seems to enjoy taking pictures of mangled bodies and even attempts to make it into a form of high art. The movie shows us that he has fun creating tasteless titles for the stories that will accompany his pictures, and right in the beginning we learn that he is trying to sell some of his photos to art galleries. This is, in itself, terrifying: in a way, the biggest horror in Disappear Completely is becoming the subject of one of Santiago’s photographs.
When he is cursed, Santiago is doomed to become one of his own photographs. His fate is, in a way, an ironic punishment: he has condemned so many dead people to a living death that he will, himself, become a tomb in the cemetery that is the entire world. Disappear Completely is definitely a movie with something to say, and it turns its eyes specifically to the art of creating images. To an extent, it is even fitting to watch Santiago’s downfall happen in a movie instead of, say, reading about it in a book, for the image is essential for us to understand what is happening to him. As we gaze at Santiago, we wonder if what is happening to him might one day happen to us as well. After all, in the age of smartphones and social media platforms where privacy goes to die, haven’t we all produced our own fair share of images that trap people in a single, unchangeable moment?
Disappear Completely
- Release Date
-
February 29, 2024
- Runtime
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106 Minutes
- Director
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Luis Javier Henaine
Laverne Cox is opening up about the “blessings” that come with being a trans woman — including the way it can protect a person from narcissistic men.
“Being trans has really helped me with the Hollywood thing and not getting too full of myself,” Cox, 54, exclusively told Us Weekly while promoting her new memoir Transcendent, out now. “It really, it really checks you. Because even I just think about all the women colleagues of mine, in my age range or whatever, like — all the, like, famous athletes, rappers [and] actors who kind of hit on me but, like, would never date me publicly because I’m trans.”
Cox went on to add, “My transness has protected me from a lot of things that a lot of other women experience in Hollywood that aren’t good things — like a lot of narcissistic men. Rejection is really God’s protection.”
Cox, who opens up about her traumatic childhood and how she has found healing and safety as a Black trans woman in Hollywood, says a vital part of her journey has been learning how to set healthy boundaries with and at times avoid or cut loose potentially toxic people — including men — in her life.
“Loving myself is about going to the doctor, eating, getting enough sleep, but also the people, places and things,” she explained to Us. “Who am I surrounding myself with? Do I have people in my life who suck me dry, who make me feel bad about myself, who trigger my patterns and, if these people aren’t serving me, I need to let go of those people.”
Laverne Cox Getty Images
She continued, “A lot of it’s been about letting go of certain kinds of people that just are toxic and bring up old traumas, or they don’t have healthy boundaries.”
In her memoir and a Wednesday, June 10, interview with The New York Times “Modern Love” podcast, Cox opened up about the pain of letting go of someone she came to realize did not serve her — her boyfriend of almost four years who, she discovered, was a NYPD officer who voted for President Donald Trump three times.
“I was in sheer bliss with this man and you know, things would come up and we would agree to disagree about some political things,” Cox said on Wednesday. “Problematic but not, like, offensive. He had been, the way he grew up and algorithms he was given, information he was consuming that he had been propagandized to. So I tried to give him grace there.”
While speaking exclusively to Us, Cox — who came out as a trans woman in 1999 while attending college in New York City — explained that there was a certain moment in her relationship with the officer that she realized there is a “soul connection” that transcends politics. At the same time, she realized that a person’s politics matter — particularly when the policies they support or defend harm the most marginalized of communities.
Laverne Cox is stepping away from E!’s red carpet coverage ahead of the 2025 Golden Globes. “With an incredible amount of gratitude, I’ve decided not to return as host of #LiveFromE’s red carpet coverage,” Cox, 52, wrote via Instagram on Thursday, January 2. “I’m so incredibly proud of the work we did over my three-year […]
“I do believe that there is, like, a spiritual realm connection that we have that’s beyond politics and in history, but those things are material reality, right?” she told Us. “Like, they inform who we are. I wasn’t able to build in a relationship and build a life with him because of his politics, but that doesn’t negate the soul connection, right?”
She continued, “Those two things are different — things that are social constructs, like me being a Black trans woman is only really relevant because of discrimination that Black trans people experience. Wouldn’t it be lovely if we could live in a colorblind, genderless world? But we can’t because of oppression.”
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