Bachelor in Paradise star Raven Gates is reacting to a comment about her finances.

“This isn’t reality for most to be able to do who live paycheck to paycheck and have debt. Tips,” one user wrote in an Instagram Story Q&A on Saturday, June 27, seemingly referring to Gates’ income bracket.

“Going back to this topic for a second. I totally get that because that was ME!” Gates, 34, replied in an Instagram Story post. “I don’t want anyone to feel as though I am trying to make anyone feel less than. That was my story, too. But you don’t see that part, but I’m trying to show a bit more of the place I was in over 10 years ago & how I got out of it.”

Gates explained that she doesn’t feel like “people remember how broke, how in debt, how bad of credit, etc [she] had.”

“The high school I graduated from had free and reduced lunches for the whole school because of our poverty level. I can go into more but there’s so much to the story including a lot of chance and luck (ECCLESIASTES 9:11) but also a lot of grinding, failing and discipline,” she wrote. “I do believe there’s always a way for things to be better and if we lose sight of that, that’s when we can’t take the next steps, whatever that may look like.”

She continued, “I knew this topic would bring a lot of emotions from people so I’m not sure I should have even shared but I am trying to be more open and also sensitive to others. But all in all to encourage and say I KNOW how it feels & I believe in you and that your situation can get better.”

Gates also shared details about her income with husband Adam Gottschalk in a post that she has since appeared to have deleted but was reviewed by Us Weekly.

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Gates met Gottschalk, 36, on the beaches of Bachelor in Paradise season 4 in 2017. The couple ultimately got engaged two years later but had to postpone their nuptials multiple times amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Gates and Gottschalk went on to tie the knot in 2021. The pair have since welcomed sons Gates and Max in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

The reality stars celebrated their fifth wedding anniversary in April, with Gottschalk sharing a sweet compilation of five photos through the years via Instagram. “Happy anniversary baby,” he wrote at the time. “5 years & 5 pics with you 🫶🏼.”

America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders star Dayton Bramhall’s journey to dance for the iconic NFL team is officially over.

“It’s been a year, so I feel great. My life has completely changed in the last year, like, new job, new career, new city [and] I have a boyfriend now. Life has changed completely,” Dayton, 28, said on the Friday, June 26, episode of the “Baddie Besties” podcast. “I think when I said I was done auditioning, I really meant I was done.”

As fans saw in America’s Sweethearts season 3, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders director Kelli Finglass and choreographer Judy Trammell cut Dayton ahead of training camp for the 2025-2026 season. Dayton, who has failed to make the team twice before, is the daughter of team associate choreographer and former DCC cheerleader Shelly Bramhall.

While Shelly was overwhelmingly emotional that her daughter’s dreams were dashed, Dayton proclaimed in a confessional that she was done trying to make the team.

Related: Kelli Finglass Reveals Status With Bramhall Family After Cutting Dayton Again

Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders director Kelli Finglass revealed where her relationship stands with associate choreographer Shelly Bramhall after cutting Shelly’s daughter, Dayton, for the third consecutive time.  “We are still standing,” Finglass, 61, exclusively told Us Weekly on Tuesday, June 23. “Shelly is still reporting to work and contributing in a big way. She always has. […]

“I really put it behind me at that moment and I just, kind of, moved on from there,” Dayton said on Friday. “I feel really content this time around … and fulfilled to say the least. I did what I needed to do. I worked my butt off all year. In between the last time I was in training camp [and] the last time I auditioned for finals, I worked so hard and that’s all I could do.”

According to Dayton, she simply wanted to try “as much as [she] could” and her best.

“I gave it my all and it didn’t work,” she acknowledged. “So, I’ll use my abilities somewhere else, and that’s what I’ve been doing and it’s been great.”

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The DCC is currently in training camp, where Judy and Kelli’s teams are whittling down the cheerleading hopefuls to set their roster for the 2026-2027 NFL season. Dayton, for her part, opted against trying out.

Related: DCC Hopeful Dayton Addresses Cut After Her Mom’s Emotional Reaction

America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders star Dayton Bramhall is proud of her audition — even if she didn’t make the squad. “At least I can say I gave it my all ⭐️🎬,” Dayton, 28, wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, June 17, sharing a photo from her solo audition featured in the Netflix docuseries. Dayton, whose […]

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“I was encouraged to come back,” Dayton alleged on Friday’s podcast episode. “My mom and I separately had conversations with staff of me returning and trying again because it was told there was a place for me there, I just had to work for it.”

She continued, “[They told me that] it wasn’t impossible for me to make the team. I had to really work for it. I was given a lot of feedback because of who my mom is and they expected a lot out of me, and while that seems like it could be a lot of pressure, I actually appreciate that.” 

Shopping for a flattering swimsuit shouldn’t mean settling for something that feels dated or overly covered up. The latest tankinis are designed with tummy-flattering features like flowy tops, strategic ruching, supportive fits and high-rise bottoms that help you feel comfortable and confident from every angle. Best of all, they’re surprisingly affordable.

From sporty two-pieces to resort-ready swim skirts and retro-inspired prints, there’s a style here for every kind of summer plan. Whether you’re lounging poolside, heading to the beach or packing for vacation, these picks deliver extra coverage without sacrificing style. Ahead, shop 17 slimming tankinis that camouflage a belly pooch without looking frumpy — all starting at just $22.

Slimming Tankinis That Camouflage a Belly Pooch

1. Our Favorite: The blouson cut on this two-piece tankini skims over the midsection instead of clinging to it. Sporty shorts with real pockets hold a hotel key or lip balm without a beach bag.

2. Belly Blurring: Vertical blue stripes plus ruched side seams do the heavy lifting on this striped tankini top. The gathered fabric draws the eye up and away from the middle.

3. Tummy Control: Built-in tummy control panels sit inside this printed tankini set without adding bulk. The high-waist shorts hit above the navel for full midsection coverage.

4. Three Piece Hero: Three pieces, endless options. The green floral tank, matching bra and boy shorts in this three-piece set mix and match, so you can wear the tank alone or layered.

5. Confidence Booster: Board shorts offer more thigh coverage than standard swim bottoms, while the loose tank on this modest tankini set provides extra coverage through the shoulders and mid-thigh for a confident, comfortable fit.

6. Resort Chic: The swim skirt instantly elevates this green tankini set, while the palm print channels effortless resort style from the pool to lunch by the water.

7. Retro Vibes: A faded blue palm print lends this retro tankini set a subtle ’70s-inspired look, while the breezy top and coordinating shorts feel effortlessly put together.

8. Coastal Stripes: The smocked bodice on this ruffled tankini set delivers a flattering, smoothing fit without the rigid feel of traditional tummy-control panels.

9. Color Crush: Spaghetti straps on this smocked tankini set keep shoulders cool while the V-neck elongates the torso. The coral and sunset palm shorts pull the whole look together.

10. Has Pockets: This striped tankini set is built for people who hate carrying things. The two real pockets on the swim shorts hold a phone or sunscreen on the walk back from the pool.

11. Ravishing Ruffles: A halterneck pulls the shoulders back and lifts the bust. Ruffles on this halter top tankini add volume up top to balance leopard bikini bottoms below.

12. Tropical-Inspired: Tropical prints never go out of style, and this Hawaii print set pairs a flowy tank with matching shorts for easy, confidence-boosting coverage — all for just $22.

13. Sporty-Chic: This navy tankini set pairs a classic V-neck top with a printed swim skirt for a look that’s equal parts sporty and polished.

14. Big Chest-Approved: Built specifically for fuller busts, this floral V-neck tankini has the support a standard tankini skips. The flowy cut below the bust skims the stomach.

15. Strapless Stunner: Bandeau tops can slip, but the elasticized band on this strapless tankini grips. The pink and orange hem detail breaks up the all-black base.

16. Midsection Magic: A flowy palm-print top is designed to skim the midsection, while the matching shorts even include pockets, making this palm tankini set feel worth the $44 price tag.

17. Pop of Pink: Pink and white vertical stripes give this striped tankini set a lengthening look, while the solid pink bottoms keep the colorful design feeling balanced.

Related: 17 Tummy-Hiding Swimsuits That Cover All the Right Places — From $8

There’s nothing worse than settling for an unflattering swimsuit that makes you self-conscious every time you sit down. Thankfully, these 17 tummy-hiding wonders work magic in the flattering department, helping you feel slim and confident from the pool to the sand. Better yet, these crowd-loved favorites start at just $8! With ruched detailing, tummy control and flattering prints and […]

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Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass is celebrating her electoral primary victory in style at the 2026 BET Awards.

Bass, 72, was all smiles while walking the red carpet at L.A.’s Peacock Theater on Sunday, June 28, wearing a power suit for the occasion. Bass donned a fitted blue pantsuit with nude pumps, accessorizing  her ensemble with delicate hoop earrings and blue eyeglasses.

Bass’ appearance at the BETs comes shortly after she narrowly defeated former reality TV star Spencer Pratt and councilwoman Nithya Raman in the June 2 primary election. Bass, the incumbent mayor, was seeking re-election opposite a crowded ballot vying for her seat.

The Hills alum Pratt, 42, was the most notable of Bass’ opponents. The Republican ultimately came in third place behind Bass and Raman, 44, who will advance to a runoff election this fall.

Related: The 2026 BET Awards Red Carpet: See Every Fashion-Forward Look

Celebrities brought their finest fashion ensembles to the 2026 BET Awards red carpet. Some of music’s biggest names in music, including Cardi B, Tyla, Kehlani, Bruno Mars, Olivia Dean and more, delivered sartorial drama while posing on the red carpet, which took place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 28. Rapper […]

“Now that the campaign portion of my mission of ‘Save Los Angeles’ is coming to a close and I’m moving on to the next more interesting phase,” Pratt wrote via social media days later. “Save LA — Phase III. I’ve spent a lot of time slaying everybody. I’ve ridiculed everyone on the roster. I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, I’d like to take the chance to apologize to …”

The video then cut to UFC fighter Conor McGregor screaming, “Absolutely nobody.”

While Pratt initially pledged to leave L.A. if he lost the election, he’s since changed his tune.

“Hey morons, I didn’t get in this for political power. I got in this to expose this corrupt machine and nothing’s changed,” he said. “I’m going to be lighting you up every single day and now I don’t have to worry about offending CNN viewers. I don’t have a campaign loss hamstringing me now.”

Pratt entered the mayoral race in January with the full support of his wife, Heidi Montag, who has remained in his corner in the wake of his political loss.

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“I couldn’t love my husband more and be more proud of him,” Montag, 39, tweeted earlier this month. “What an inspiration, what a hero.”

Pratt was inspired to run for office, despite no previous political experience, after his family’s home was destroyed in the devastating 2025 wildfires. He was especially critical of Bass’ actions managing the fallout from the natural disaster.

“I truly never imagined I would actually probably [become] the mayor,” he exclusively told Us Weekly before Election Tuesday. “I just wanted somebody to [tell] the truth, and I wanted to have that platform as a candidate against [Bass] to get the truth. You can just get away with lying if you don’t have somebody saying that’s not true.”

By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 11 seconds ago

You know how memes can sometimes be accidentally profound? For example, one of my favorites is when people share this hilarious quote from Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace: “I know writers who use subtext, they’re all cowards.” In the context of the show, this quote is meant to highlight what a bad storyteller Marenghi himself is. Over two decades after that show aired its last episode, this quote highlights how the very opposite is true. Writers who use subtext are actually quite brave because they are unleashing intelligent content on audiences who are largely too dumb to actually understand any of it.

This is particularly true of screenwriting because so many movie lovers never look beyond the surface. That’s why, say, people think RoboCop and Starship Troopers are just cool, violent action movies instead of a poignant commentary on society. The best example of this phenomenon, however, is actually a sweet, sexy romantic comedy: (500) Days of Summer. It’s easy to get lost in the banter and the bluster of the relationship between characters played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel. However, beneath the silly comedy is a very serious truth, one that explains why your relationships keep falling apart, no matter how hard you try.

An Adorkable Office Romance

The premise of (500) Days of Summer (and beware some spoilers if you’ve never seen it!) is that an aspiring architect (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) falls head over heels in love with his boss’s new assistant (Zooey Deschanel). After she spontaneously kisses him, he agrees to a casual relationship, and the two end up having plenty of fun together. Unfortunately, he wants something serious, and she wants more of a casual, friends-with-benefits kind of relationship. Eventually, they have a nasty breakup, but things work out for the best: he rebounds by throwing himself into his dream career, while his carefree ex eventually finds a man that she wants to marry. 

For the most part, (500) Days of Summer plays out like a standard rom-com with a few heavy doses of drama thrown in. In other words, not the kind of movie that men usually get their panties in a twist over. Nonetheless, this fluffy film has proven controversial because it is built around an unreliable narrator. Most of the film is from the perspective of Tom, the hopeless romantic played by Gordon-Levitt. After Summer (the carefree cutie played by Deschanel) breaks up with Tom because she doesn’t want anything serious, many viewers felt a sense of betrayal, as if she had thrown away a good man and settled down with her first rebound.

This Is Why Your Relationships Fail

Of course, the irony of dudes getting big mad at this film is that (500) Days of Summer is trying to gently explain why so many relationships fail. There’s a common belief that most couples break up because one partner stops putting in much effort, effectively killing the spark they once shared. But that isn’t the case in this movie because Tom tries so hard to make things work with Summer; in point of fact, he tries too hard, which ultimately pushes her away. Men who take Tom’s side in all this are often perplexed and even angry. After all, how can Tom do everything right and still lose the girl?

The short answer, of course, is that he didn’t do everything right. The timey-wimey structure of (500) Days of Summer shows us different points in the couple’s relationships, effectively exploring the emotional highs and lows of their time together. Viewers, much like Tom himself, subconsciously focus only on the happy moments, not realizing how important their fights and differing viewpoints are. These aren’t small issues; rather, they are cracks in a foundation that wasn’t very strong to begin with. A foundation that began with a critical misunderstanding: Tom wants a serious girlfriend, and Summer just wants casual fun without putting any kind of definitive label on what they’re doing.

Are You Thinking The Same Thing?

The people who get angriest at Summer are the men who feel like she’s giving off mixed messages with her behavior. We see her holding hands with Tom, enjoying romantic dinners, and even watching weird porn together, which some think are signifiers of a serious relationship. But to believe that, the haters have to do exactly what Tom did: ignore the words coming out of Summer’s mouth. She repeatedly tries telling the man that she doesn’t want a committed, long-term relationship, but he only really sees and hears what he wants to. Therefore, his attempts to be the ultimate marriage material boyfriend backfire because that’s the last thing she’s looking for.

So, fellas, what’s the lesson here, and how can it help you navigate your own relationships? The first and arguably most important thing is making sure that all parties are on the same page. If you’re interested in a girl, you need to ask her exactly what she’s looking for. Is she trying to find Mr. Right or just Mr. Right Now? There’s nothing wrong if you both want a friends-with-benefits situationship or even if you want to explore more adventurous dynamics like ethical nonmonogamy or polyamory. The only thing wrong at this stage is doing exactly what Tom did: simply assuming your partner wants the exact same thing you do.

Much To Ponder

Beyond that, there’s a lesson especially pertinent to younger viewers: your love life doesn’t have to move at warp speed. It doesn’t matter if all your friends are getting engaged or whatever; if you’re not ready to be, then don’t worry about it. Once you find someone, you shouldn’t be like Tom and instantly assume you’re in love. Instead, you should take the time to make sure you are both compatible. Finally, you need to be honest in assessing the good and the bad of your relationship. If you put on optimistic blinders as Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s character did, it’s only a matter of time before you get blindsided.

(500) Days of Summer is a great movie, specifically because of its brilliant subtext. To really appreciate the film, you must do as Tom did and see things from Summer’s perspective. Doing this in your own relationship is a great way to stay connected to your partner and prevent minor issues from becoming major catastrophes. Doing so also helps you understand whether you’re in love with the real person or just your idea of them. Need a little more love advice? Believe it or not, it’s free! (500) Days of Summer is currently streaming on Tubi.

As someone who loves to copy celeb fashion for less, I live for the moments when the designer lookalike clothing is just as lovely as the original. So when I spotted one of my favorite style icons, Kate Hudson, rocking a dreamy floral midi dress on Instagram, I was thrilled to find a lookalike dress that’s nearly identical — for only $28.

This polished Walmart midi dress has all the feminine, flirty, fashionable energy needed to add a romantic edge to any summer wardrobe. And for anyone who loves vintage‑inspired fashion, this retro midi dress brings serious pin‑up‑girl energy, backed by plenty of poise and polish.

Get the IDOPIP Floral Midi Dress for $28 at Walmart! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to changes.

The IDOPIP A-line floral midi dress has the same designer energy as Kate’s version, but with thoughtful upgrades that suit all fashionistas. Adorned with a surprisingly supportive, corset‑style back, a flirty tie at the bust and adjustable straps, it has that elevated, designer‑inspired look. Even better: it’s comfortable enough for everyday summer wear. Just add strappy sandals, an oversized sunhat and a shawl to complete the look.

If pinks and florals aren’t your thing, no worries. The figure‑flattering midi comes in other vibrant prints and even solid hues, including black and navy, as well as a toile‑like blue floral and oversized roses. Walmart reviewers can’t stop swooning over the way it slims the waist and looks far more expensive than its $28 price tag.

“I was shocked but this dress is beautiful and fits amazing,” one Walmart shopper said. “I have always felt uncomfortable wearing dresses and insecure about my body, but this one snatches my waist and looks absolutely stunning! Highly recommend buying this dress.”

“Super flattering. Makes the girls look good and the waist snatched,” another five-star reviewer said.

While copying celeb style isn’t always easy or affordable, it’s fashion finds like these that remind me you don’t need an A‑list budget to look like an A‑list star. Don’t miss this under-$30 dress that you, and countless admirers, will fall in love with.

Get the IDOPIP Floral Midi Dress for $28 at Walmart! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to changes.

Science fiction is a genre that lends itself wonderfully to re-watches, often more so than any other. After all, these are stories that are often mind-bending, full of foreshadowing and Easter eggs, and intricately complex in both their plotting and their thematic work. As such, re-visiting such works can be an incredibly rewarding experience that reveals new details, a higher appreciation of the directors and writers’ craftsmanship, and a better understanding of the whole narrative.

There are plenty of sci-fi shows out there that are even better the second time around, from groundbreaking space operas like Babylon 5 to mind-twisting time travel shows like Travelers. Whether it’s because their stories are difficult to understand on one’s first go, because they’re so thematically complex that a second watch makes them feel even more powerful, or because they’re simply too entertaining to watch only once, these are sci-fi masterpieces that demand further visits.

10

‘Falling Skies’ (2011–2015)

Image via TNT

One would think that a post-apocalyptic sci-fi series executive-produced by Steven Spielberg and starring Noah Wyle would still be deeply entrenched in the sci-fi pop culture conversation in the midst of a decade as sci-fi-loving as the 2020s. But for some bizarre reason, Falling Skies aired for a pre-planned five-season run and then disappeared from the conversation.

It’s one of the most groundbreaking sci-fi shows that everyone forgot. Successfully bringing the massive cinematic scale of a Spielberg-esque alien apocalypse story to American cable television, the show delivered a hard-hitting, character-driven, gritty tale of survival and resilience. It deserves infinitely more love than it typically gets nowadays, and plenty of re-watches are in order.

9

‘Battlestar Galactica’ (2004–2009)

Image via SyFy

There are plenty of great sci-fi shows that should never get remade, but if there was a classic sci-fi series that was begging for a reimagining, it was 1978’s Battlestar Galactica. After 2003’s miniseries of the same name, one of the best sci-fi miniseries in history, came the 2004 full-length series. Likewise, it’s one of the best sci-fi TV shows in the genre’s history.

There are twists, profound philosophical and ethical questions, and complex character arcs in Battlestar Galactica that demand one or two re-watches in order to be fully appreciated. It’s a series whose narrative is built on deep foreshadowing, hidden motivations, and many clues that are best enjoyed when you already know how everything is going to play out.

8

‘Babylon 5’ (1994–1998)

Image via PTEN

In the history of American television, there’s a “before Babylon 5” period and an “after Babylon 5” period. Quite unusually for American broadcast television at the time (science fiction or otherwise), this show was designed from the start as a sort of novel for television, with five pre-planned seasons serving as one chapter in the story each. This sort of highly serialized storytelling completely revolutionized the medium.

Indeed, Babylon 5 is one of those sci-fi shows that would have been great during the streaming era—but thankfully, it’s still abundantly easy to watch today. The kinds of narrative payoffs and bits of foreshadowing that were thrown into Babylon 5‘s engrossing story become even more enjoyable on re-watch, and the series’ highly bingeable nature makes it even easier to revisit multiple times.

7

‘The Expanse’ (2015–2022)

Image via SyFy

Based on the incredible series of novels by James S.A. Corey, the pen name of collaborators Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck, The Expanse is one of the most rewatchable sci-fi shows ever made. It ran on Syfy for three seasons until it was canceled, only to be picked back up by Prime Video for another three outstanding seasons. Now, we’re left with one of the greatest six-season sci-fi shows in history.

For one, The Expanse has often been praised as the most scientifically accurate sci-fi show ever, and that definitely contributes to its being so enjoyable to revisit. But what really makes it one of those shows that get better on re-watch is the fact that its dense, sprawling universe rewards going in with prior knowledge. Full of complex politics and character motivations, it becomes even more enjoyable when you already understand them from the get-go.

6

‘The X-Files’ (1993–2018)

Image via FOX

The X-Files is yet another sci-fi show from the ’90s that marked a before and an after in the history of American science fiction. Few sci-fi shows have ever been this impactful or influential throughout history, in no small measure because The X-Files‘ fandom largely pioneered the space of online fan culture. As a result, the series has remained a legendarily essential piece of modern pop culture up until this day.

It’s one of the best sci-fi shows you’ll wish you watched sooner, a true classic in every sense of the word. Its highly episodic nature makes it delectably easy to revisit time and time again in whatever order one’s heart desires, while its more serialized elements make those re-visits all the more rewarding. Once Mulder and Scully feel like family, re-watching their earlier adventures becomes even more enjoyable.

5

‘Firefly’ (2002–2003)

Image via FOX

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Firefly‘s tragic case is perhaps the most infamous instance of a sci-fi show being canceled way before it had the proper time to establish itself, but it’s still one of the best single-season action TV shows of all time. It’s a space Western without equal, bolstered by one of the best ensemble casts of any 21st-century genre show and some equally phenomenal writing.

Similar to The X-Files‘ Dana and Scully, Firefly becomes even more enjoyable once the crew of the Serenity starts to feel like the viewer’s own family. Already having the full context of the character’s layered backstories makes it easier to focus on the subtle world-building, the fun character dynamics, and the sharp dialogue.

4

‘Fringe’ (2008–2013)

Image via FOX

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Following a somewhat slow and far more episodic first season, Fringe only keeps growing more intensely serialized and sharply complex as it goes on. It is, through and through, one of those sci-fi shows that only keep getting better with each passing season, as well as one of those underrated sci-fi shows worth watching over and over again.

Already knowing Fringe‘s many destinations makes it far easier to enjoy the journey on a rewatch, where it starts coming across as even more of a meticulously planned, character-driven, and deeply emotional epic. The show’s many multiversal and timeline mysteries don’t lose any of their intellectual charm on rewatch, and the transition from episodic procedural to suspenseful serialized drama only becomes even more admirable.

3

‘Travelers’ (2016–2018)

Image via Netflix

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There’s one subgenre of science fiction that benefits particularly strongly from re-visits across all forms of media, and that’s the time travel genre. After all, stories are inherently more enjoyable when you have a clearer understanding of how they work, and these mind-bending tales of history-altering travelers only become easier to understand on re-watch. Case in point: Travelers.

This incredible Netflix original is one of the most underrated time travel shows ever, a high-stakes mystery that keeps growing more layered and intellectually challenging over the course of its excellent three seasons. There are endless amounts of foreshadowing here that are incredibly enjoyable on rewatch, and the emotional and thematic depth of the story can be further appreciated on re-visits as well.

2

’12 Monkeys’ (2015–2018)

Image via Syfy

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Back in 1995, Terry Gilliam delighted fans of time travel stories around the world with Twelve Monkeys, one of the greatest and most iconic time travel movies of all time. Making a show based on any movie is always a huge task, and when that movie is as widely celebrated as Gilliam’s masterpiece, even more so. However, not only did 12 Monkeys perfectly live up to expectations, it arguably even surpassed them.

It’s one of the most underrated masterpieces of the sci-fi TV genre, a flawlessly planned and meticulously structured gem that actually makes remarkable sense—something rather rare for time travel stories. Since the story was mapped out from the very beginning, re-watching the show helps one appreciate all the bits of foreshadowing, hidden clues, and thematic payoffs that the writers sprinkled throughout the whole series.

1

‘Dark’ (2017–2020)

Image via Netflix

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For people who love sci-fi shows with mind-bending plot twists, there’s no show quite like Netflix’s first-ever German-language series, Dark. It’s one of the greatest mind-twisters and sci-fi thrillers in the history of modern television, a tale of time travel and parallel universes that could have only possibly been made during the streaming era.

Like 12 Monkeys, Dark was meticulously mapped out from the very beginning, so re-watching it further illuminates all manner of hidden details, foreshadowing elements, and complex intricacies that viewers wouldn’t have otherwise noticed or properly appreciated. That’s what makes this one of the greatest genre shows of the 21st century: Even though it’s an intellectually challenging watch, it rewards those willing to undergo that challenge with a fascinating story that they can—and will want to—revisit time and time again.

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Dark

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Release Date

2017 – 2020

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Network

Netflix

Showrunner

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Jantje Friese

Directors

Baran bo Odar

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• 

  Louis Hofmann

  Jonas Kahnwald

• 

  Lisa Vicari

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  Martha Nielsen

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Kanye West has once again found himself at the center of public attention after his lavish birthday celebration raised eyebrows.

The rapper marked his birthday with an extravagant masquerade-themed event in France alongside his wife, Bianca Censori, while also opening up about her support during a difficult period in his mental health journey.

However, the festivities come as Kanye West faces fresh backlash ahead of upcoming concerts in Tampa, where planned protests are expected over his past antisemitic remarks and actions.

West reportedly marked his recent birthday with an extravagant masquerade-themed celebration at the historic Château de Versailles in France, which is said to have cost $400,000.

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According to Page Six, the rapper and producer, who turned 49 on June 8, hosted more than 20 guests for the lavish gathering at the famed palace before the festivities continued at the nearby Airelles luxury hotel.

For the occasion, West embraced the event’s dramatic theme, wearing an all-black ensemble that included a face covering, jacket, leather trousers, boots, and matching gloves.

His wife, Bianca Censori, opted for a striking cream satin outfit featuring a structured corset-style bodysuit paired with a coordinating skirt. She completed the look with a feathered headpiece that concealed much of her face and satin wedge heels.

More About Kanye West’s Lavish Birthday Party

Many of the attendees at West’s party stuck to the masquerade dress code, with several guests incorporating elaborate masks into their outfits, including animal-inspired designs.

The lavish celebration followed a sweet birthday tribute from Censori earlier this month.

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The Australian architect shared a series of photos and videos on social media, including clips of West singing with a friend, alongside a heartfelt message expressing her affection for her husband.

“Happy birthday @ye. I love you more than life,” Censori wrote while describing the “Heartless” rapper as her “ride or die 4ever” in another post.

Kanye West Credits Bianca Censori For Helping Him Through Mental Health Struggles

The couple also reportedly spent part of the birthday weekend in Amsterdam, where they were seen dining at the upscale Ciel Bleu restaurant before departing together.

The Amsterdam outing was just the latest in a series of high-profile appearances for West and Censori, who frequently attract attention with their fashion choices while keeping much of their relationship out of the public eye.

Last month, Censori once again made headlines during a night out at Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles, where her bold outfit sparked widespread discussion online. The couple married in 2022 and have remained together through several controversial moments that have kept West in the spotlight.

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Earlier this year, the rapper spoke candidly about a difficult period in his mental health, revealing that Censori played a key role in helping him navigate a severe depressive episode that followed changes to his medication.

In an interview with Vanity Fair, West said his wife recognized the warning signs and helped him seek treatment, including support from a rehabilitation facility in Switzerland. He credited her with helping him through what he described as one of the lowest periods of his life.

Meanwhile, West is facing renewed controversy ahead of upcoming concerts in Tampa, where protests are expected despite unsuccessful efforts to cancel the performances.

Ahead of the rapper’s scheduled shows, organizers have announced plans to deploy protest vehicles to circulate around the venue as concertgoers arrive. The demonstrations follow a campaign led by Senator Rick Scott, who urged local authorities to block the events because of West’s history of antisemitic remarks and controversial public statements.

Earlier this month, Scott launched a petition calling on the Tampa Sports Authority to cancel the concerts, arguing that public resources should not be used to support an artist whose comments have been widely condemned.

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In a statement, Scott described West as “an admitted and prolific antisemite” and pointed to a number of past remarks and actions that have generated backlash. He argued that allowing the concerts to proceed at a publicly funded venue would be offensive to many members of Florida’s Jewish community.

He added. “Forcing them to support these concerts through their tax dollars is a complete slap in the face to the Jews in Florida and across the country and world.”

The controversy plaguing West stems from a series of inflammatory comments he made beginning in 2022. Over the years, he drew criticism for posts on social media that praised Adolf Hitler, identified himself as a Nazi, and targeted Jewish people.

He also faced backlash after selling merchandise featuring swastika imagery through his fashion brand’s website.

In January, however, West appeared to reverse course, publishing a public statement in which he expressed support for Jewish people and attributed some of his past behavior to the effects of a brain injury.

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The statement was met with mixed reactions, with some welcoming the apology while others remained skeptical.

His comeback efforts have since faced obstacles internationally, with reports indicating that the United Kingdom denied him an entry visa, leading to the cancellation of planned appearances, while another scheduled concert in Poland was also called off.

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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