By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 16 seconds ago

Acclaimed author William Faulkner once wrote, “The past is never dead. It’s not even past.” Certainly, the last two decades of entertainment media have proven him correct. We’ve seen the return of numerous beloved ‘80s properties, including Transformers, Ghostbusters, G.I. Joe, and so many more. Because these revivals have been so hit-or-miss, it’s easy to worry when a new one gets announced. That’s how I felt when the Masters of the Universe movie was first announced. He-Man was my absolute favorite hero when I was growing up. Were they going to screw it up? My fears notwithstanding, I got more excited the closer we got to the movie’s premiere. 

As it turns out, my faith was rewarded: the new Masters of the Universe was more exciting than most MCU and DCU films, offering an absolutely brilliant reboot of this killer IP. Of course, He-Man has been rebooted many times before, but this film put me in the mood to go right back to the cartoon that started it all. If you’d like to go on this “good journey” with me, you’re in luck: He-Man and the Masters of the Universe is now streaming for free on Tubi!

He Has The Power

The premise of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe is that the distant planet of Eternia is constantly being threatened by Skeletor, a demonic warrior with an army of evil allies. Fortunately, the planet has its protectors, including Man-At-Arms and his warrior daughter, Teela. One of those protectors is Adam, a prince with a fabulous secret: when he holds aloft his magical sword, he transforms into He-Man, the most powerful man in the universe! He is Skeletor’s greatest enemy, and he fights to save the rest of his kingdom from certain death.

In retrospect, the most notable thing about He-Man and the Masters of the Universe is how nonviolent the show really is. It was based on toys that encouraged epic battles by including special features like battle damage. But in the show, you never really see He-Man use his sword for anything but deflecting ranged attacks. With living creatures, our hero never used his sword or even his fist; he’d just throw them out of frame. If he did punch something, it was always a robot. While all of this can be goofy or even frustrating, it does make it that much easier to share with your own children.

Helter Skeletor

In He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, the plot is a bit like the violence: borderline nonexistent. There’s not much complex lore here, and episodes are mostly a loose collection of Maguffins, toy cameos, and cheesy dialogue. Why, then, am I recommending that you revisit the cartoon? For one thing, because of the cheesy dialogue. Phrases like “I have the power” have entered our cultural lexicon as easily as Skeletor’s colorful ranting has become the source of countless memes. All of this adds up to B-movie perfection you’ll enjoy if you, like me, are a huge fan of ‘80s-style schlock. 

Additionally, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe is filled with iconic designs. Both the aforementioned Skeletor and Castle Grayskull are seriously spooky, and they speak to the emo goth kid within all of us. He-Man, in turn, remains the ultimate symbol of masculinity and strength for an entire generation. Oh, and Snake Mountain is the coolest evil lair ever put onscreen. All of these characters and locations help bring to life a world where sci-fi and fantasy collide. Like, be honest: where else are you going to find a barbarian riding a speeder bike to chase down a magician with no skin?

A Really Good Journey

If you’re in a properly nostalgic mood, you’re likely to find He-Man and the Masters of the Universe hilarious. You can’t really keep a straight face when Skeletor is blurting out lines like, “It’s the sorceress, you boob!” On top of the cheeseball dialogue and funny character antics (Cringer and Orko are always good for laughs), one of He-Man’s funniest aspects is the public service announcement at the end of each episode. As an old-school “what’s the moral of this story?” wrap-up, each message is throwback perfection. Plus, you’ll find some standouts that range from accidentally hilarious (He-Man conflating potions and drugs) to surprisingly horrific (Orko warning kids about weirdos touching them!).

While He-Man and the Masters of the Universe is great for anyone who loves vintage, animated schlock, it will appeal the most to anyone who played with He-Man toys growing up. Seriously, rewatching some of these episodes helped unlock absolutely wonderful memories from my childhood. The result is a very nurturing nostalgia that takes us back to a wonderfully simpler time. Good always triumphs over evil, might never makes right, and every struggle is just a lesson in disguise. In our own world of instability and outright chaos, this escape to a simpler time is practically an exercise in meditation.

Ready for a little peace of mind yourself? Don’t worry: you won’t have to storm Snake Mountain or learn how to fly a hoverbike. And you won’t have to match wits with Skeletor or unlock the power of a magic sword. All you have to do is grab your remote and stream He-Man and the Masters of the Universe for free on Tubi today. With the money you save, you can make like Prince Adam and pay for a gym membership. Don’t worry; I’m sure you’ll have his physique in no time!

Structured staples and form-fitting pieces have a time and place, but some days, pulling them on feels almost painful. If you’re a comfort lover or prefer not to fuss with tight clothes in the heat, take a tip from Jennifer Coolidge. The actress recently stepped out in the flowy caftan outfit of our dreams, inspiring Us to snag a similar style on Amazon.

Attending an event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Legally Blonde, Coolidge made quite the fashion statement in an airy, leopard-print number. While her caftan dress definitely felt fancy and rich, we quickly noted how easy it would be to shrug on the design in the morning — no annoying straps to adjust, no shapewear needed and (if you wanted) no bra. It’s safe to assume the star’s version is designer, but the Rossopesca V-Neck Caftan Dress is so similar, you’ll wonder if Coolidge secretly ordered her own via Prime.

Get the Rossopesca V-Neck Caftan Dress for $15 (was $20) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The Amazon alternative comes in just one size, but it’s roomy enough to accommodate small through 2XL frames, making it ideal for a variety of body types, as well as those whose weight tends to fluctuate. What’s even better is that the luxe-looking piece can be styled in so many ways, whether you dress it up like Coolidge with heels and a clutch, or rock it with sneakers and a messy bun for weekend errand runs. A caftan dress also makes the perfect swimsuit coverup at the beach or pool, so don’t forget to pack this pick on your next vacation.

Related: Jennifer Lopez’s White Maxi Dress Belongs in a Resort Catalog

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After passing the Memorial Day hump, Jennifer Lopez took the first opportunity to bring out a summery white dress. But hers wasn’t some basic white frock. Boho and luxe, it looked straight out of a high-end boutique, and we found the look for under $50! In a recent Instagram post, Lopez highlighted her Memorial Day […]

If leopard designs aren’t your thing, that’s fine, too. The same piece comes in leaf print, zebra, colorful florals and many other options. One thing to note is that this delicate dress is meant to be hand-washed, but according to the description, you can also place it in a mesh laundry bag before tossing it into the machine, which saves you from soaking it in the sink.

It seems like Coolidge and Amazon shoppers are on the same page about easy summer outfits, since the Rossopesca caftan dress has been purchased over 900 times in the past month alone. The reviews reveal why it’s such a hit, with many shoppers calling the look “comfy and stylish.”

“I absolutely love this kaftan dress; it’s gorgeous in the kind of way that makes you feel instantly put together with zero effort,” one person wrote. “The fabric is lightweight and flowy, which makes it perfect for warm weather or lounging around the house. The V-neck is flattering without being too low; it strikes a really nice balance. The batwing sleeves give it that relaxed, elegant drape that moves beautifully when you walk.”

The above shopper loves the caftan so much, they even wrote, “This is one of those easy pieces you’ll keep reaching for because it feels as good as it looks.”

Even those who are petite are fans of the piece, with one 5’2″ reviewer noting it “does not overwhelm my height or drag awkwardly.”

Sometimes, looking at Coolidge makes Us “want a hotdog real bad” (or to quote another famous line, like “I’m taking the dog. . . “), but this time, she’s fully inspiring our shopping choices. Copy her chic caftan outfit with this $15 find and wear it on repeat all summer long!

Get the Rossopesca V-Neck Caftan Dress for $15 (was $20) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more caftan dresses here, and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

Related: Jessica Alba‘s Exact Miami Swimsuit Coverup Is Still in Stock

We may attribute Jessica Alba‘s wardrobe to California-cool style, that is, until she switched things up with a cute, beachy-like dress that gave total Miami vibes. Her outfits are always on point; however, it was her lacey mini dress that grabbed our attention this time around . . . and it made Us rush to […]

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Spoiler Alert: This list contains spoilers for The Bear Season 5.It’s the final service in Season 5 of The Bear. After 1,440 hours, Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) finally hands over the keys to the restaurant. But he and his crew weren’t about to go down without a fight. Picking up right after the Season 4 finale, Carmy leaves The Bear in the hands of his trusted partner Sydney Adamu (Ayo Edebiri) and his loud but dependable friend Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach). Then, literally the next day, everything that can go wrong does. Raging storms, burst pipes, and a shortage of ingredients turn their final service into a complete nightmare.

Season 5 puts The Bear through one last gauntlet, showing both the highs and the lows of running a restaurant when everything is on the line. Some episodes are among the show’s very best, while others feel more like setup than payoff. But taken together, they deliver a fitting send-off to a series that’s always been about more than just food. After nearly four years of kitchen chaos, here’s every episode of The Bear Season 5, ranked.

8

“Lamb”

Episode 2

Image via FX

“Lamb” isn’t the strongest episode, largely because it is a continuation of the fallout set up by its predecessor. As the team deals with the repercussions of a flooded basement and a shortage of ingredients, the episode mostly follows everyone scrambling to find the next best solution. It’s the same familiar story of The Bear — a restaurant constantly putting out fires — but this time, the stakes are pushed to their absolute limit.

What is new about “Lamb” is that Uncle Jimmy (Oliver Platt), Computer (Brian Koppelman), and his equally calculating niece, Cheese (Elsie Fisher), finally step up to do something about the situation. After spending much of the previous season complaining about mounting losses, it’s refreshing to watch them take action instead. They may not love the restaurant business, but Uncle Jimmy certainly isn’t willing to lose more of his money. That urgency sets the trio on a far more proactive path, as they race to keep the restaurant afloat and minimize the damage.

7

“Soda”

Episode 1

Image via FX

For all the storm that’s brewing, “Soda” is like a kettle that’s only just beginning to whistle — it hasn’t exploded yet, at least not until the very end. Everyone is clearly under pressure, but nobody has cracked just yet. The episode opens with the looming possibility that the restaurant’s next service could be its last. Everyone prepares for the night as if it’s business as usual, but an unspoken sense of dread hangs over the kitchen. Even with torrential rain threatening to ruin their do-or-die service, they all show up ready to fight for one last shot.

Still, that determination isn’t fueled by blind optimism. Each character spends the day wrestling with the uncertainty of what comes next before stepping into the restaurant, caught somewhere between denial and accepting the inevitable. Then, a burst pipe in the basement turns their worst fears into reality, kicking off the kind of frantic, all-hands-on-deck chaos that The Bear does better than almost any other show.

6

“Ribs”

Episode 4

Image via FX

After all the wet and wild madness of the previous episodes, “Ribs” provides a much-needed breather as The Bear prepares for an uncertain service. Fittingly, it’s an episode where nearly every character gets the chance for a heartfelt conversation. Sugar (Abby Elliott) and Carmy have finally reached a place where they can laugh about their complicated history with Donna (Jamie Lee Curtis), even joking over who her favorite child really is. Meanwhile, Tina (Liza Colón-Zayas) and Sydney reaffirm that they’ll always have each other’s backs, marking a huge step forward from their frosty rivalry in Season 1.

What makes “Ribs” truly unforgettable is the closing scene, where Cousin Richie delivers one of his signature pep talks. His motivational speeches are usually hilarious because he stumbles through big words while trying to inspire everyone. Here, however, he’s at his most honest and vulnerable, admitting that nothing about the restaurant is perfect — and that’s okay, because they’re a “f–king family.”

5

“Mint”

Episode 3

Image via FX

“Mint” is where things really start to simmer, especially between Carmy and Syd, who do their best to keep the peace despite the growing strain between them. They can’t seem to get on the same wavelength, making an interesting contrast to how naturally Marcus (Lionel Boyce) and Luca (Will Poulter) click. Audiences can feel the tension slowly building as Carmy micromanages Sydney without even realizing it, while Syd keeps swallowing her frustration to avoid another fight.

But the real shocker is Carmy’s sudden confession to the staff that he’s leaving The Bear, which comes completely out of nowhere. The reveal stings even more because Sydney lets it slip under her breath out of pure annoyance with Carmy, accidentally breaking the news herself. It feels like a knife to the back, but what really hurts is seeing Uncle Jimmy’s reaction. He’d never looked at Carmy with that much disappointment or betrayal before, which is a subtle note as to how Jimmy never really saw Carmy as just a mere business partner, but as someone whom he truly cared about. And the fact that someone he cares about would do this to him has never enraged Uncle Jimmy more.

4

“Raspberries”

Episode 5

Image via FX

There’s no better way to cut through the gloom than by putting one of The Bear‘s most unlikely heroes in charge: Pete Katinsky (Chris Witaske), Sugar’s husband. It’s a running joke that the Berzatto family finds him unbearably annoying, mostly because he’s so relentlessly optimistic compared to their dysfunction. But Pete’s golden retriever energy fuels some of “Raspberries’” laughable moments, from being hilariously “tricked” by Sydney into taking out the trash to getting whisked away by Uncle Jimmy’s entourage to negotiate the building’s air rights.

The episode also stirs up conflict between two of the show’s most unexpected chefs: Marcus and Luca. Pitting them against each other is a bold choice, given their easy, brotherly bond throughout the series. It’s refreshing to see Marcus’ increasingly obsessive pursuit of perfection — a flaw that’s surfaced before — finally test Luca’s patience. Watching the usually calm and level-headed chef lose his composure adds a new dynamic to their relationship while proving that even the strongest partnerships can crack under pressure.

3

“The Original Beef of Chicagoland”

It’s tough to top the visceral camaraderie of “Foccacia” or “Caramel,” but the season finale, “The Original Beef of Chicagoland,” delivers the sense of calm the show has earned after five seasons of constant calamity. In the aftermath of the previous night’s disastrous service, audiences might expect a triumphant victory lap. Instead, the finale makes a quieter point: a bad service is simply another day in the restaurant business. No matter how rough things get, there’s always another shift waiting tomorrow.

And because there’s always another day, problems simply don’t disappear. That’s a powerful reflection not only on the restaurant industry but on life itself. Still, that doesn’t mean the characters can’t celebrate the victories they do earn. Beyond the exciting news of their two Michelin stars, “The Original Beef of Chicagoland” doesn’t tie every loose end together, but it offers something even more meaningful: hope. The future of the restaurant remains uncertain, but the bond between its people has always been the one thing they can count on — and that’s what The Bear has always been about.

2

“Focaccia”

Episode 6

Image via FX

In typical The Bear fashion, any episode centered on service usually emphasizes the overall chaos. It captures the feeling that everything is falling apart without always pinpointing exactly why. “Focaccia” finally changes that. While it still showcases the mounting pressure in the kitchen, it zeroes in on one specific problem driving the disaster: overbookings. By focusing on a tangible issue instead of general mayhem, the episode makes the escalating tension feel even more immediate and focused.

In theory, more guests should mean more profit and a successful night. But The Bear doesn’t have enough seats, forcing the staff to improvise in increasingly absurd ways. Richie’s crew hauls out makeshift tables and chairs, while a few diners are even brought inside the kitchen for an “intimate experience.” It starts as a clever solution, but quickly unravels when those same guests witness the last thing the kitchen needs: Marcus and Luca getting physical.

1

“Caramel”

Episode 7

Image via FX

“Caramel” is The Bear at its absolute best, and it doesn’t disappoint. Time and again, the series reminds viewers that the show isn’t really about the food or earning a Michelin star — it’s about the chosen family keeping it alive. “Caramel” rekindles that spirit, giving even the most jaded viewers a reason to root for this dysfunctional crew, despite how often they get under one another’s skin.

The Bear may have started as Carmy’s dream, but “Caramel” gives every character a chance to shine as they pull together through service. Standout moments include Neil charming a potential Michelin inspector with the story behind his tattoos and the entire kitchen stepping in to give Carmy room to recover after he commits every chef’s nightmare: dropping a plated dish. But the real highlight is the team’s last-minute decision to swap their ambitious lamb course for Sydney’s humble family recipe, proving that while presentation matters, it’s heart and intention that truly make a dish — and a restaurant — memorable.

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The Bear

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Release Date

2022 – 2026-00-00

Network

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Hulu

Showrunner

Christopher Storer

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Directors

Ramy Youssef

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Lewis Hamilton and Kim Kardashian‘s relationship has continued to attract attention since the pair went public earlier this year, with sources claiming the romance is affecting various aspects of the F1 star’s life.

From reportedly investing in wellness treatments to spending time with Kardashian’s children and enjoying luxury getaways together, the couple’s relationship appears to be growing stronger.

Insiders also suggest Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton’s shared ambitions and easy connection are making them one of Hollywood’s most talked-about pairings.

Hamilton is reportedly paying closer attention to his appearance as his relationship with Kim Kardashian continues to attract intense public interest.

According to a report, sources shared that the F1 driver has been exploring a range of premium wellness and cosmetic treatments, with concerns about hair thinning among his main focuses.

“It’s not as though Lewis wasn’t in the spotlight before Kim, but the level of attention on him now is even more intense, and so is the pressure he feels to look perfect,” a source says.

Although Hamilton is said to have experimented with non-surgical options such as red-light therapy and specialized hair-growth products, the insider notes that “the only thing that really makes a big difference is getting a hair transplant surgery.”

However, with the Formula One season keeping him busy until December, any major procedures are reportedly being postponed. For now, the insider claims Hamilton is opting for less invasive treatments, including Botox and injectables, as he continues to maintain his image under growing public scrutiny.

They further allege that Kardashian has not pressured Hamilton to change his appearance but has introduced him to the world of cosmetic enhancements, an area in which she is considered highly knowledgeable.

Friends Say Kim Kardashian And Lewis Hamilton Are A Perfect Match

Meanwhile, friends of the couple reportedly believe they are an ideal match.

Sources describe their relationship as easygoing and natural, noting that their previous friendship helped create a strong foundation.

The pair is said to share similar ambitions and outlooks on life, with one insider claiming they have a level of comfort together that makes it seem as though “they’ve been together for years.”

“Everything feels very easy and light,” the insider told People Magazine. “The fact that they knew each other before helps, but they both align in terms of ambition, life goals, and making things easy.”

Lewis Hamilton Is ‘Very Into’ The Business Mogul

Hamilton and the SKIMS founder first sparked romance rumors in February following a series of public appearances, including at Super Bowl LX, before making their relationship Instagram official in April.

Those close to the couple say Hamilton is deeply invested in the romance as he “is very into” Kardashian and is “always saying how gorgeous she is, giving her attention.”

“It’s very cute,” the insider shared. “After some of Kim’s other relationships, friends think this is just what she needs. She’s always at peace with him.”

The Formula One star publicly addressed the relationship for the first time during the Monaco Grand Prix on June 8, expressing gratitude for Kardashian’s support throughout the race weekend.

“It’s amazing to have her come this weekend and have the support,” Hamilton said during a post-race press conference, per People.

He added: “But, you know, with my friends, incredible turnout, just overall, the people,” he added. “It’s amazing to have good people around you and good people supporting you, and she does that for me every day.”

Kardashian later offered fans a glimpse into their relationship by sharing photos from a day spent together, including an image of the pair riding bicycles.

Sources have also suggested that Hamilton’s growing bond with Kardashian’s four children, North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm, is a reflection of the trust she places in him, as she is known to be highly “protective of them and doesn’t take new introductions lightly.”

Lewis Hamilton And Kim Kardashian Pack On The PDA During A Luxury Yacht Escape

The couple was recently seen enjoying a getaway to the French Riviera following Hamilton’s impressive Monaco performance.

Photos obtained by Hola! showed them sharing affectionate moments aboard a luxury yacht, with Hamilton dressed in Ferrari team gear and Kardashian opting for a black bodysuit and a more natural look with her hair worn down.

The yacht excursion came after Kardashian spent the race weekend supporting Hamilton from the grandstands alongside her sister, Khloé Kardashian.

She also drew attention for several fashion-forward outfits during the event, including a black lace ensemble and a backless nude-toned gown accessorized with black heels, purple-tinted sunglasses, and a sleek high bun.

Jon & Kate Plus 8 alum Collin Gosselin has a not-so-subtle message for his mother, Kate Gosselin, amid their ongoing estrangement and ahead of his tell-all memoir’s release.

Collin, 22, took to his Instagram Stories on Saturday, June 27, to repost a news report claiming that Kate, 51, was “spiraling” about the contents of her son’s forthcoming book. (In addition to Collin, Kate and ex-husband Jon Gosselin are parents of twins Mady and Cara, 25, and sextuplets Collin, Hannah, Alexis, Leah, Joel and Aaden, all 22.)

Collin’s social media activity also included a screenshot of a fan’s comment that read, “What’s done in darkness will always come to light.”

Us Weekly exclusively revealed the cover of Collin’s debut book, In the Shadow of Eight: Surviving the Reality of My Childhood, earlier this month. The memoir is set to look back on Collin’s childhood as a young reality TV star and his troubled relationship with Kate.

Related: Collin Gosselin Breaks His Silence on Estrangement From Mom Kate Gosselin

Candid conversation. Collin Gosselin offered a rare glimpse at his dynamic with mom Kate Gosselin — and addressed a potential reconciliation. During an interview with Entertainment Tonight, which was published on Monday, November 28, the 18-year-old referred to his childhood relationship with Kate, now 47, as “worse than what you would say the average teenage […]

“This book is about truth, survival, resilience and finding my voice after years of being silenced,” Collin told Us. “If my story helps even one person feel less alone or gives them the courage to tell their own, then every difficult page was worth writing.”

Kate has not publicly addressed Collin’s book announcement. She has denied her son’s previous accusations about his upbringing.

Elsewhere on Saturday, Collin shared footage from a new YouTube interview where he asked Kate to complete a lie detector test.

“I did just say on social media that I would like to invite my mom to do a lie detector test,” Collin told “StrangeMcKnights” in an interview published on Saturday, referring to his social media invitation from September 2025. “I want to get into everything, and this is where we are both hooked up to lie detectors, heart monitors, everything. I mean, they test for everything and we can either ask each other questions or we can have an interviewer ask us questions.”

Related: Collin Gosselin Confirms He Isn’t on Speaking Terms With His Siblings

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Kate and Jon Gosselin’s son Collin Gosselin is opening up about where he stands with his estranged siblings. “Unfortunately, it’s just not something that is easy for me to talk about,” Collin, 21, said in the Wednesday, August 20, TikTok live video, per People. “As you can see, I don’t post on Instagram, I don’t […]

Collin explained that he wants to take the test with Kate, who never publicly responded to his offer, because she allegedly has “been putting on this facade” on social media.

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Sharing the clip to his Instagram Stories, Collin claimed, “This was a year ago and I’ve been stood up by my mom … again.”

As for In the Shadow of Eight, Collin noted on “StrangeMcKnights” that he’s currently “in the process” of writing the book.

“I’m working with a lady who is … helping me to construct this a little bit better,” he acknowledged, seemingly confirming that he hired a ghostwriter. “Honestly, going over these events and putting them on paper and drafting them is almost therapeutic in a way.”

Editor’s note: The below contains spoilers for House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 2.HBO’s House of the Dragon courted controversy and backlash from fans for the incredibly long wait between seasons, but the hugely positive reaction to Season 3’s debut episode is bringing people back in droves. The epic Battle of the Gullet alone has brought back the massive sense of scale that the Game of Thrones franchise is so famous and beloved for. Plus, the other major developments of Sheepstealer’s reign of terror and Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) being an all-around creep with his mother set the stage for what could be a very chaotic penultimate chapter.

By far the biggest curveball Season 3 threw in its premiere was the death of Queen Rhaenyra’s (Emma D’Arcy) oldest son and heir, Jacaerys (Harry Collett), who met an untimely end as the Battle of the Gullet concluded. Episode 2, which is arguably even better than the hour that preceded it, reveals Rhaenyra’s reaction to the aftermath, a moment that all but assures D’Arcy a seat in the next Emmys race.

Rhaenyra Can’t Accept Jace’s Death in ‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3 Episode 2

Episode 2 of House of the Dragon Season 3 picks up right where the premiere left off, with the bloody aftermath of the Battle of the Gullet feeling more like a defeat for Rhaenyra’s forces instead of a technical victory. Jace’s death and Corlys’ (Steve Toussaint) disappearance mean that the apparent victory comes at a high cost, and only time will tell what effect it will have on the ongoing war. Until then, Lady Baela Targaryen (Bethany Antonia) is tasked with bringing Jace’s body back to Dragonstone to inform Rhaenyra of what’s transpired.

It’s here where Emma D’Arcy absolutely steals the show with their most powerful scene in the entire series yet. When Rhaenyra first sees Jace’s lifeless body, her first thought is to scold her child for his brash and reckless behavior, completely in denial of the harsh reality right in front of her. It’s a truly heartbreaking and surprisingly grounded representation of grief, one rarely seen in high-fantasy shows like this, and D’Arcy’s career-best performance is truly one for the books. Even Rhaenyra’s rage for the Kingsguard that locked her in her room under Jace’s orders is surprisingly spared for the time being, as the queen is too heartbroken to actually do anything that resembles retribution.

Rhaenyra is the only one given time to grieve Jace, as Baela leaves Dragonstone rather quickly to join Allyn (Abubakar Salim) and Addam (Clinton Liberty) in their search for the Sea Snake. Thankfully, Corlys has not suffered the same fate as his beloved Rhaenys (Eve Best), as he is eventually found relatively unharmed. Corlys also decides to officially claim Allyn and Addam as his legitimate sons and heirs, effectively rejecting their status as bastards.

Aemond Potentially Gains a New Ally in ‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3 Episode 2

Despite the death of Rhaenyra’s oldest son (meaning the toll of “a son for a son” just went up), things are not looking good for the Greens, and Alicent (Olivia Cooke) knows it. King’s Landing is in a complete state of disarray; not only has Aegon II (Tom Glynn-Carney) abdicated the throne, but Aemond has also left on Vhagar to claim Harrenhal. With both of her sons away from the heart of Westeros, Alicent puts the plan she hatched with Rhaenyra into motion, conspiring with the Goldcloaks with the knowledge that they’re still loyal to Daemon (Matt Smith).

Speaking of Daemon, he is summoned back to Dragonstone, but not before he has an unfortunate conversation with his witch ally from Harenhal, Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin). Alys expected Daemon to hand over Harrenhal to her once the war was over, but it seems Daemon is going against his word despite the visions she showed him, which may be a decision he lives to regret.

Meanwhile, Aemond decides to lead a solo assault on Harrenhal, with the mighty Vhagar eviscerating everything in sight as Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) assembles the troops. Aemond’s in no mood to take prisoners today, so as soon as he enters Harrenhal, he kills Ser Simon Strong (Simon Russell Beale) and his son, but manages to take a good stab to the gut. It’s highly unlikely this will be the end of Aemond as we know it, especially when he asks Alys to help him, teasing a new alliance. Meanwhile, Aegon and Lord Larys Strong (Matthew Needham) manage to escape custody to flee toward parts unknown.

Rhaenyra Claims the Iron Throne at a Cost in ‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3 Episode 2

Image via HBO

Despite still grieving from Jace’s death and desperate to discover the identity of Sheepstealer’s rider, Rhaenyra knows she can’t sacrifice the opportunity to take King’s Landing. Rhaenyra and Daemon practically waltz into the city on dragonback since every guard has been ordered to stand down by Alicent, bar a few loyalists. This includes the Kingsguard, but as soon as the Goldcloaks arrive to show their support for Daemon, they surrender. Thus, Rhaenyra finally takes the Iron Throne, doing so with a fraction of the casualties it took for her descendant, Daenerys (Emilia Clarke), to do the same in the flagship series.

Daemon begins to scour the castle for Aegon, not yet realizing that the “Usurper” has fled King’s Landing. However, Larys has left a surprising gift behind. It’s been a while since we’ve seen Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans), but he’s evidently been imprisoned in the Red Keep ever since he was asked to step down as Hand of the King. With Aegon MIA, a public execution of his grandfather and a high-ranking member of his council is the next best thing, and Rhaenyra has to be the one to do it.

In another great and emotional scene, Rhaenyra executes Otto, and it couldn’t come at a worse time. Moments after she does, Alicent, who was trying to escape King’s Landing, is captured and brought before the new queen, with Otto’s headless body still lying on the floor. Alicent has stayed true to her word about giving Rhaenyra King’s Landing on a silver platter, but the execution of her father is bound to cause another rift between the friends.

New episodes of House of the Dragon Season 3 premiere Sundays on HBO and HBO Max.

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Release Date

August 21, 2022

Network

HBO

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Showrunner

George R.R. Martin

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Directors

Clare Kilner, Geeta Patel

Writers

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Gabe Fonseca

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• 
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  Fabien Frankel

  Ser Criston Cole

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Pros & Cons

• Emma D’Arcy gives their best performance of the series so far.
• The Sea Snake lives!
• Rhaeneyra’s claiming of the Iron Throne happens in a unique and interesting way.
• Otto Hightower’s death is another great curveball for the next episode.

Editor’s note: The below interview contains spoilers for House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 2.

We’re only two episodes into House of the Dragon Season 3, and already the show’s penultimate chapter is making some pretty definitive moves on the larger chessboard of Westeros. Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) and Daemon (Matt Smith) have already descended on King’s Landing, but her efforts to decisively claim the Iron Throne are somewhat thwarted by the fact that Alicent (Olivia Cooke) has already redirected Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) towards Harrenhal instead. The Kinslayer’s arrival at the largest castle in Westeros is certainly memorable, not the least of which is because it culminates in him bleeding out on the floor at the feet of a silent Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin).

Ahead of the Season 3 premiere, Collider had the opportunity to speak with several members of House of the Dragon‘s expansive ensemble, including Mitchell and Rankin, about their characters’ biggest moments over the first two episodes. Over the course of the interview, which you can watch above or read below, the two discuss that shocking premiere kiss between Aemond and Alicent, why Alys’ conversation with Daemon about Harrenhal feels like a “breakup,” why Season 2’s spookiest location is closer to the “White Lotus of Westeros” this season, and more.

COLLIDER: Ewan, I do have to bring up the kiss between Aemond and Alicent. I really think you and Olivia [Cooke] played that scene with so many layers to it. There’s a lot of complicated emotions at play. From a character standpoint, what do you think Aemond’s biggest motivation or feeling is in being the one to initiate that between them?

EWAN MITCHELL: I think for Aemond, in Episode 1 at least, he’s very much assumed his dominance as the king, at least on Team Green, and he wants to act accordingly. Alicent, maybe, is his queen, in a weird kind of way, in his mind, and he wants to assume the leadership role of this family and really take them all under his wing. He’s now the father figure. He’s the daddy. He’s the daddy now. I always think of Scum — have you seen that? — when Ray Winstone’s like, “I’m the daddy now!”

GAYLE RANKIN: [Laughs] I’m feeling it.

MITCHELL: And Aemond has such a skewed perception of love, how to show it, show affection, because he never really had it when he was growing up. I definitely think that kiss was probably a little too far.

‘House of the Dragon’s Gayle Rankin Explains Why Alys Makes a Play for Harrenhal

“I think she thought she could really trust him and that he saw her and saw what she needed and who she was…”

Image via HBO

Talking about characters that are trying to make power moves, Gayle, we see Alys put herself forward to take control of Harrenhal. She goes to Daemon for that, and they have a really interesting conversation. What do you think drives her to seek out Daemon specifically for that conversation about why she thinks she’s deserving to take over at this point?

RANKIN: I think their history from Season 2. The amount of time and the kind of depth that they traversed together, I think she’s like, “This is my friend. This is my friend, and I trust him,” which is maybe a crazy thing, but I think she really did and does.

But I did look at that scene, and I’m like, “It’s kind of a breakup.” I felt that way when we were working on it. It felt like a breakup because I think he disappoints her so badly, and I think she thought she could really trust him and that he saw her and saw what she needed and who she was, and why she deserves stewardship of this place — especially going into this war, in which it’s going to be so pivotal, and pivotal to him. I just think he misses the mark, and she’s like, “Okay, I see you.”

One of the things I love about the character, too, is [that] she has been our gateway point into bringing in some more of the magic in this world, bringing in some more of the strange forces that not all the characters quite understand. There is that scene between [Alys] and the dragonseeds where she maneuvers them away from waiting for Aemond. Do you think she’s somehow foreseen Aemond coming, and that’s how she knows to insert herself into manipulating them out of the picture?

RANKIN: Yeah, I do. The funny way of thinking about it is that I think she imagined that there was a Targaryen, a blonde, long-haired man on his way, and that maybe she thought it was Daemon, and nope. No. But someone’s coming. I think Alys doesn’t always have the exact details, but I think she has a lot of wisdom, and she knows she needs to make way for someone coming.

‘House of the Dragon’s Ewan Mitchell and Gayle Rankin Discuss Aemond and Alys’ First Meeting

“There is something like a sick meet-cute about it.”

The relationship between your characters is something that book fans are intimately familiar with and really excited to see play out this season. The way that the two finally meet, there’s almost a hilarity to it. There’s a drama to it. He’s literally bleeding out, and she doesn’t say a word. In that moment, what do you think their first impressions are of each other?

MITCHELL: Not a great one. I mean, it’s a hell of a way to make an entrance — Aemond killing everyone in the room, killing Simon Strong in front of you, and then meeting for the first time. Love at first sight.

RANKIN: Yeah. There is something like a sick meet-cute about it. It’s like the darkest, romantic, or complex meeting of matches in some ways. It’s like, what’s going to happen? It’s a huge cliffhanger, but there’s a charge between these two characters, certainly, and a curiosity. And I do think something clicks in about, “Are we keys to one another’s next step? How are we connected?” But it feels undeniable. I think that’s how she feels. There’s something undeniable about their connectedness.

Harrenhal, as a location, there’s a lot of spookiness around it. Season 2 really leaned into that almost Gothic horror in a lot of ways. In Season 3, can we anticipate more of that lingering horror, given the setting that these two are going to be connecting in?

MITCHELL: I think Harrenhal is quite horror-esque, but I also think it’s like the White Lotus of Westeros, where it is almost like a spa retreat. You go there, all of these toxins get drawn out of you, you confront your ghosts head-on. I mean, that’s what we saw with Daemon last season. You never come out the other side the same person.

RANKIN: And it kind of also adapts to your needs. It’s like the best kind of spa, where it really is catered to your needs, which I think is exciting. So, to answer your question, I would say absolutely, yes, because Harrenhal is such a huge character in itself, and it lives and breathes. But I don’t think it’s going to be anything that a lot of people expect.

New episodes of House of the Dragon Season 3 premiere Sundays on HBO and HBO Max.

Jennifer Lopez left little to the imagination as she took the stage at the Prime Video’s inaugural Obsessed Fest.

Lopez, 56, wowed attendees with a surprise musical performance, sporting a flesh-colored bodysuit adorned with beads and illustrations reminiscent of tattoo ink. “Tough Luck” was written on the bodice, while “God is nature” was spelled out on Lopez’s stockings. The pop star completed her ensemble with over-the-knee tan Jimmy Choo heeled boots.

For glam, Lopez wore her hair half-up-half-down with a smoky eye and rosy blush.

The “On the Floor” singer has long maintained an ever-youthful appearance, complete with enviable ab muscles.

“It’s no secret that fitness is a very important part of my life,” Lopez exclusively told Us Weekly in 2023. “I think there’s a positive correlation between exercise and mental health. When you find a good balance through determination and focus, we’re naturally pushing to be the best version of ourselves.”

According to Lopez, exercise is “a motivating factor” in her life.

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“I try to make good choices and balance my time,” she stated. “I’m always evolving and looking for things that keep me excited and motivated. I’m not afraid to challenge myself, so I’m open to pushing myself.”

Lopez, a mom of 18-year-old twins with ex-husband Marc Anthony, also enlisted renowned trainer Tracy Anderson to coordinate her workout routines.

“Working out with her, it’s kind of remarkable because she is so hardworking and she has such a good attitude,” Anderson, 51, told Us at the time of training with Lopez. “She’s got great energy. She’s positive and giving. She’s just an awesome woman. She shows up no matter what, she takes the time seriously, she knows her body, she wants to be herself. She knows that putting in the hard work to get her workout in is part of it.”

Editor’s note: The below interview contains spoilers for House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 2.

Only two weeks into House of the Dragon‘s return, the penultimate season has already dropped more than a few shocking bombshells. While the premiere began with the devastating Battle of the Gullet, which saw several characters’ fates either sealed or ultimately left a mystery, Episode 2 affords Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) little time to grieve the most personal loss of her eldest son, Jacaerys (Harry Collett), before she has to make a more decisive move on King’s Landing. Yet her arrival on dragonback, alongside Daemon (Matt Smith), isn’t met with the reception that she anticipated — and without Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney) or Aemond (Ewan Mitchell) to dispatch, a secretly imprisoned Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans) ends up taking their place, but the moment itself ultimately rings hollow, especially after Rhaenyra’s initial attempt to execute the former Hand of the King doesn’t go as planned, especially when Alicent (Olivia Cooke) enters the hall immediately afterward.

Ahead of the show’s premiere, Collider had the opportunity to speak with several House of the Dragon cast members about their characters’ most pivotal moments in the first two episodes, including D’Arcy and Smith. Over the course of the interview, which you can watch above or read below, the two discuss Rhaenyra’s reaction to Jace’s death (and why D’Arcy “dreaded” the scene the most out of any other moment in Season 3), that less-than-triumphant claiming of the Iron Throne in Episode 2, and whether Rhaenyra and Daemon’s marriage will face any other obstacles now that the show has scrapped Fire & Blood‘s Nettles plotline.

COLLIDER: Emma, I did speak with Harry [Collett] yesterday; obviously, Jace’s fate is set up in this initial episode, and it carries over into Episode 2. Rhaenyra’s reaction to being confronted with Jace’s body, starting with that denial… it feels like you watch her go through the grief process right there. How did you prepare for that scene and her exploring all those emotions in that moment?

EMMA D’ARCY: If I’m totally honest, it’s the only scene in the series that I sort of dreaded, and I think I probably was quite avoidant about it for a while. But how did I approach it? If I’m honest, the real sense of privilege of a recurring character and getting to be with the show for a number of years is having a honed operating system that you kind of trust, and that you can run these big events through, and to trust the output of.

Harry was totally beautiful on the day. I’m always struck by the extraordinary intuition of actors. We didn’t really speak in the morning, and he gave me kind of a wide berth, but we hadn’t talked about it in advance. Then at lunchtime, he found me very briefly and just said, “I didn’t know what would be best, but I just thought it could be some space.” He’s a beautifully, incredibly caring and deeply thinking person. So, I think sometimes — maybe this is just me, but I probably do require something sort of slightly sacred about those days, where you do just have to stay in it. You have to honor, I suppose, the size of the ask, and certainly Harry did that very, very beautifully. And I was extremely relieved when the day was over on that occasion.

‘House of the Dragon’s Emma D’Arcy Explains Why Rhaenyra Is Actually “Rudderless” on the Iron Throne

“I felt there was an opportunity in that scene to look at how power and the pursuit of power, the toll that that takes on identity, on the body, on one’s sense of self…”

Image via HBO

The second episode really feels like it’s just blow after blow — not just in terms of the grief, but also these unexpected turns that the story takes, especially with Rhaenyra and Daemon going to King’s Landing. It culminates in a scene that I wanted to ask both of you about, which is Rhaenyra reclaiming the throne. It’s a moment that feels anything but triumphant. I was curious about how the two of you wanted to approach not just Rhaenyra ascending the steps to the Iron Throne — it feels like she’s physically staggering to get there — but also the look that she shares with Daemon once she’s seated on the Iron Throne.

MATT SMITH: I’ve not seen it yet, so it’s interesting. I didn’t know there was a look there at the end. I mean, I remember doing it with you, obviously, but I think you could probably speak more to that.

D’ARCY: I haven’t seen it yet either, but I’m happy to hear your read, because I certainly thought there was a lot of scope to kind of rob that moment of its triumph, which, for my money, feels honest in a family where the political ambition and the personal, interpersonal strife are sort of part of the same thing. I felt there was an opportunity in that scene to look at how power and the pursuit of power, the toll that that takes on identity, on the body, on one’s sense of self, so that by the time she does finally claim that seat, so long dreamt of, she’s kind of rudderless in some way, and actually may be finally claiming the sort of thing that could actually cause an identity crisis. I think that’s kind of interesting.

Looking ahead to the rest of Season 3, one thing that book fans may have been surprised by is that the show is dispensing with the Nettles storyline. That was a point of strife for Daemon and Rhaenyra in that original story, but are there any threats to their dynamic, their relationship, that you can tease or set up this season? Despite what we saw at the end of Season 2, with Daemon publicly swearing fealty to Rhaenyra, are there obstacles that their marriage is going to face?

SMITH: Yeah, of course. Of course. There’s so much going on on a grander scale in terms of fronts of war, politically, and then the personal relationships that are sort of encroaching, encroaching, encroaching like a sort of swarm of flies. Then, amidst all of that, you’re trying to balance an actual relationship between yourself when you have two slightly different attitudes towards how to achieve the same goal.

D’ARCY: Absolutely.

SMITH: There’s a lot of wrestling that has to take place, I think. There are some big peaks and troughs that come in within that, without giving too much away.

New episodes of House of the Dragon Season 3 premiere Sundays on HBO and HBO Max.