Entertainment
20 Movies To Watch if You Love ‘Saving Private Ryan’
An epic war-scale movie about courage, bravery, and sacrifice, Saving Private Ryan is arguably one of the best epic war films around. While it has one of the most emotional opening scenes in film, the narrative is still one viewers were eager to watch, as a squadron of soldiers led by Captain John Miller (Tom Hanks) goes behind enemy lines in World War II with orders to save Private James Ryan (Matt Damon). It is a brutal telling of one of the deadliest wars in history, taking viewers into a violent and bloody battle where no one is safe.
From the eagerness of Paul Bäumer (Felix Kammerer) in All Quiet on the Western Front to the last stand seen in Fury, Saving Private Ryan isn’t the only film that will have viewers on the edge of their seats. These films are fast-paced and filled with action and consequences arising from various military operations. So, for viewers who enjoy intense fight sequences, interesting characters, and powerful stories, check out these movies that are similar to the ferocity seen in Saving Private Ryan.
Stanley Kubrick‘s Full Metal Jacket is a gripping war movie set during the Vietnam War and stars Matthew Modine as Private James “Joker” Davis who, along with Private Leonard “Gomer Pyle” Lawrence (Vincent D’Onofrio), are sent to boot camp where they endure intense psychological and physical abuse under a brutal drill instructor, shaping them into soldiers while pushing some to the breaking point. After graduating from the Marine Corps, Davis is sent to Vietnam, where he navigates the absurdity, violence, and moral confusion of the brutal warfare.
While Saving Private Ryan focuses on the chaos and sacrifice of combat, Full Metal Jacket explores how soldiers are psychologically shaped before battle and how that conditioning affects them in war. It offers a darker, more satirical take on military life, with unforgettable characters, sharp dialogue, and a deep focus on dehumanization and moral conflict. Full Metal Jacket ultimately conveys and explores the unsettling understanding of what war does to people—both on the battlefield and inside their minds. —Andrea Ciriaco
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‘The Hurt Locker’ (2008)
The Oscar-winning war movie, The Hurt Locker, is recognized as one of the best war films of the 21st century and takes place during the Iraq War. Following the death of their Staff Sergeant, a bomb squad is assigned a new leader, Staff Sergeant William James (Jeremy Renner), who has a reputation for taking risks and seems to thrive on war. While the squad tries to adapt to James’ different kind of leadership, they can’t deny that the man has an uncanny talent for defusing bombs.
The Hurt Locker delivers the same intense realism and tension as Saving Private Ryan, but in a more modern-day war setting. The Hurt Locker zooms in on the moment-to-moment psychological stress of combat, showing how war becomes addictive and isolating. Its handheld style and focus on a small unit make the danger feel immediate and personal, while exploring how soldiers struggle to function both in war and away from it. The Hurt Locker is less about missions and more about the mental cost of surviving them, which pairs naturally with what Saving Private Ryan does so powerfully. —Andrea Ciriaco
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‘Platoon’ (1986)
Charlie Sheen stars in Oliver Stone‘s 1986 war drama, Platoon, as Chris Taylor, who, in 1967, abandons college and enlists to serve during the Vietnam War. When Taylor finally lands in the middle of the battleground in Vietnam, his idealism begins to fade, and the reality of combat shakes him to the core. As Taylor fights to survive, in-house fighting between his hardened superiors and sympathetic comrades pits everyone in his unit against each other as well as against enemy troops.
While Saving Private Ryan shows the chaos and heroism of battle, Platoon dives into the personal toll of war, including fear, guilt, and ethical dilemmas that many veterans struggled to cope with after the war. Its gritty realism, intense firefights, and portrayal of the bond and tension between soldiers make it emotionally powerful and a must-see for anyone who loves war films. Both films present audiences with a raw, immersive look at combat, but Platoon has a heavier psychological focus on the morality and mentality of soldiers, ultimately setting it apart from other war movies. —Andrea Ciriaco
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‘Braveheart’ (1995)
Braveheart is an epic historical war drama directed by and starring Mel Gibson as William Wallace, a Medieval Scottsman who revolts against the English after the love of his life is brutally murdered. After Wallace recruits his own army of men, he leads them into battle and eventually sparks an all-out war that threatens England, making him a wanted man, but before he is captured and executed for his actions, Wallace becomes an immortal symbol of freedom and hope for his beloved country of Scotland.
Braveheart features a brutal depiction of battle and embodies the emotional weight of fighting for something bigger than yourself. The movie explores the personal courage, sacrifice, and leadership of one man rallying people against overwhelming odds, effectively capturing the chaos, fear, and heroism of combat. Braveheart received ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Screenplay and Best Costume Design, and went on to win five of its nominations, notably for Best Picture and Best Director. —Andrea Ciriaco
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‘Flags of Our Fathers’ (2006)
Clint Eastwood‘s Flags of Our Fathers is an intimate glimpse into the lives of five Marines and a Navy corpsman who were involved in planting the American flag on Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945. A photo of the servicemen and their display of patriotism becomes an iconic symbol of victory for Americans, inadvertently making the men heroes, but despite the notoriety and glory, each of them still has to live with the traumatic aftermath and lasting effects of being on the battlefield.
Flags of Our Fathers explores the human stories behind the historical Battle of Iwo Jima, and examines the personal cost of heroism, the pressure of public expectation, and the emotional aftermath of war. The film is a thoughtful, realistic look at how ordinary soldiers endure extraordinary circumstances and the complex ways society honors or misunderstands those who put their lives on the line for their country. Unlike the majority of other war movies, Flags of Our Fathers tells the events of Iwo Jima through the American perspective, while its companion, Letters from Iwo Jima, provides the Japanese perspective of the battle, making Flags of Our Fathers a unique and fascinating war movie. —Andrea Ciriaco
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‘Gladiator’ (2000)
Gladiator follows the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius (Russell Crowe), taking viewers back to the time of Ancient Rome and gladiators fighting in an arena for the entertainment of the empire. Once an honored general for Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris), Maximus soon finds himself bound in chains after the Emperor’s son, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), murders his father. Jealous that his father wanted Maximus to be his successor, Commodus frames him. Maximus’ family is eventually sold to Proximo (Oliver Reed), a gladiator trainer. It isn’t long before Maximus is thrown into Rome’s Colosseum, fighting for his life and, eventually, taking on Commodus and killing him for the spectators.
While Ridley Scott’s historical epic is set in ancient times, it is still a compelling tale of strength and honor. Like Saving Private Ryan, it moves at just the right pace, so when the action sequences do happen, they are all out entertaining, if not wildly violent. Crowe’s performance as Maximus is magnificent, creating a quiet yet strong-willed person who wants revenge for the murders of his family while still wanting to fight for the freedom of himself and the other gladiators forced into slavery. Visually stunning and electric, Gladiator won five Oscars at the 73rd Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Crowe.
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‘Narvik’ (2022)
A suspenseful tale of the true events that happened during the Battles of Narvik from April 9, 1940, to June 8, 1940, Narvik brings viewers into the tiny Norwegian port town as German forces are invading the country, intent on taking over the iron ore exports the village is known for. The movie follows Ingrid Tofte (Kristine Hartgen) and Corporal Gunnar Tofte (Carl Martin Eggesbø), a married couple who want nothing more than to live a normal life and to keep their family safe, even though they are now caught up in a war.
The film brings into question what a person will do under extreme duress if they are willing to stand up and fight for what they believe in. An emotional and impactful movie, Narvik has a way of making every decision made by the characters feel as though it is life or death, a moral obligation, and less of a strategic way of taking on the encroaching German forces. It is interesting to watch, as viewers aren’t sure if the characters are going to break under the emotional turmoil or continue to fight for their town.
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‘The Patriot’ (2000)
Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson) is a widowed farmer living in Berkeley, South Carolina, and a French Indian War veteran who wants nothing more than to stay out of another war, even though the British are coming and the American Revolutionary War is on his doorstep. But when British Troops come and disrupt his life, killing one of his sons, Thomas (Gregory Smith), he joins the ranks. Getting to one of the American camps, Benjamin meets up with Colonel Harry Burwell (Chris Cooper), who, knowing Benjamin’s fighting skills, tasks him with creating a militia unit and engaging in guerrilla warfare. Benjamin fights alongside his son, Gabriel (Heath Ledger), who is eventually killed, and does his best to win the war, one bloody battle after another.
The Patriot is like Saving Private Ryan as it is a war film filled with violent battles, hand-to-hand combat, and emotionally draining death scenes, just with an eccentric villain in Jason Isaacs’ Colonel William Tavington, who viewers can’t help but hate to love with his zero-remorse and guilt-free attitude. While it is not as thought-provoking as the squadron tasked with saving another soldier’s life, it is still wildly entertaining, with incredible acting and a strange juxtaposition of sentiment and brutality, a similar theme seen in Saving Private Ryan.
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‘The Thin Red Line’ (1998)
Based on James Jones’ 1962 novel of the same name, The Thin Red Line brings viewers into the Pacific Theater of World War II and the Battle of Mount Austen, part of the Guadalcanal Campaign. The film looks into the lives of different United States soldiers from C Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, including Private Witt (Jim Caviezel), who went AWOL, and Sargeant. Welsh (Sean Penn), the commanding officer who found him and returned Witt to active duty, training for the battle to come.
From there, soldiers gear up for the Battle of Mount Austen, showcasing a violent war field full of machine guns, death, and a squadron who need to figure out their respective attitudes in life or death situations and war as a whole. The Thin Red Line is an emotional tale about a group of men who find love in unlikely places, namely in each other, as they try to overrun a Japanese bunker during the battle. It is powerful and takes viewers on a journey through an intense battle and sequences of bloodshed that are nothing short of heart-piercing moments.
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‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ (2022)
All Quiet on the Western Front is based on the 1929 Erich Maria Remarque novel of the same name and brings viewers back to the start of World War I in 1914 Germany. It follows the story of Paul Bäumer, a young German man who, alongside his friends, enlists in the army. The film is interesting, as it shows Paul as an excited young man, ready to go to the front lines for his country and become a decorated war hero. He sensationalizes being a soldier but is quickly struck by the realities of warfare, the death and destruction it causes, and the body count growing every hour of every day. Instead of becoming the hero he dreamed of being, all Paul wants to do is survive and make it back home to his family.
The film shows the personal development of Kammerer’s character, first, as a young schoolboy who thinks it would be glorious and an honor to die for his country, and then realizes the truth, conditions, and horrific nature of where he is. It is a harrowing portrayal of soldiers and war, a grueling and emotionally taxing film that is as visually appealing as it is compelling. Like Saving Private Ryan, All Quiet on the Western Front explores the notion that war is something else altogether for those actually fighting and how the experience isn’t an adventure but something that will stay with you forever.
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Speculation surrounding Kim Kardashian‘s rumored new romance has reportedly drawn a reaction from Kanye West. A source claims the rapper is “jealous” despite having moved on from their relationship.
Kardashian has been seen several times with racing driver Lewis Hamilton, and despite not confirming their romance, the two appeared affectionate during several public outings.
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An Insider Claims The Rapper Is ‘Jealous’
Rumors about a budding relationship between Kardashian and Hamilton began in early February, when the two were spotted in Paris. They were seen a few more times in public afterward.
An insider told the Daily Mail that West isn’t thrilled with this new development. “Ye is jealous, yup, it feels weird for him. It’s always strange for him to see his ex-wife out with another man. It felt weird with Pete Davidson, and now it feels weird with Lewis Hamilton,” per the unnamed source.
West and Kardashian were married for seven years and share four children. The latter filed for divorce in February 2021, and it was finalized in late 2022. West then married his wife, Bianca Censori, in December 2022.
“That used to be Ye’s family, now Lewis is there, it’s hard to see,” the source added.
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Kim Kardashian And Lewis Hamilton Remain Silent On Romance
Kardashian and Hamilton have known each other for a while, having been spotted at different events since 2014.
After their Paris meet-up, Kardashian and Hamilton attended Super Bowl LX togetheron February 8. A source told PEOPLE that Kardashian has “always liked” the driver, adding, “She’s excited about their romantic connection… He makes her feel safe, and she genuinely enjoys spending time with him.”
Neither of them has confirmed nor denied the status of their relationship. As reported by TMZ, a reporter asked Hamilton if he enjoyed the football game or his companion more at the Super Bowl, and he refused to answer, saying, “It’s my private life. I’m not talking about that.”
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Kim Kardashian Reportedly Doesn’t Want To Anger Kanye West
As previously reported by The Blast, the reality TV star is carefully navigating her new relationship. An unnamed source said Kardahian and Hamilton don’t want to “trigger” West, adding, “They are concerned about what Kanye would think about this, since he was friends with Lewis in the past.”
The source said that is the reason why they are choosing to keep things casual, going on to say, “He’s not looking to settle down with anyone, including Kim. Lewis isn’t looking to be a stepdad. [He’s] not looking to be the ‘it’ couple with Kim.”
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The Rapper Clashed With Pete Davidson
In 2021, months after filing for divorce, Kardashian began dating comedian Pete Davidson.
In January 2022, a snippet from West’s song “Eazy” was leaked ahead of its release, wherein the rapper was heard saying, “God saved me from the crash / Just so I can beat Pete Davidson’s a-s.” The video for the song featured an animated version of Davidson being kidnapped and buried by West.
The two had a back-and-forth on social media, and in March, screenshots of their texts were leaked. When West asked him where he was, Davidson replied, “In bed with your wife.”
The comedian pleaded with the rapper to “handle these matters privately,” urging him to get help for his mental health. “You have no idea how nice I’ve been to you despite your actions towards me,” Davidson wrote.
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Davidson and Kardashian called it quits after nine months together.
Inside Kanye West’s Relationship With Bianca Censori
Despite claims of jealousy, West seems content with his relationship with Censori, whom he married in 2022. However, their union also had its ups and downs
As previously reported by The Blast, the architect considered leaving her husband several times but ultimately decided to stay with him.
In January, West apologized for his antisemitic remarks, explaining that he struggled with bipolar disorder, which he claimed he got after being in a car accident. The rapper said Censori urged him to seek professional help, saying, “We sought out what’s been effective and stabilizing course correction in my regime from a rehab facility in Switzerland.”
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Censori, meanwhile, has spoken out about West, explaining that she was never controlled by her husband regarding her provocative outfits. Instead, it’s a collaboration between them. “I didn’t marry my husband because I wanted some sort of platform. I married him because I love him,” she added.
Jerry Bruckheimer has given us some amazing movies. From Pirates of the Caribbean to Top Gun, the producer is behind some of our favorite titles featuring some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. This year, he has bagged his second Oscar nomination for the Brad Pitt-led sports drama F1. The movie directed by Joseph Kosinski is competing for Best Picture, Visual Effects, Film Editing, and Sound. The movie was a big surprise right from the start; first, it got an unexpected reception at the box office worldwide, becoming a critical as well as commercial success, but its unexpected Oscar nominations cemented the movie as one of the best sports films in recent memory.
Bruckheimer was at the Oscar luncheon recently, where he discussed the impact of F1 among other movies. But the conversation took an interesting turn when he was asked about his other highly anticipated movies: Pirates of the Caribbean 6 and Top Gun 3. Interestingly, Kosinski directed Top Gun: Maverick, which brought Tom Cruise back as the titular character, and was Bruckheimer’s first Oscar nomination. Its success led to the announcement of a third movie in the franchise.
On the other hand, another installment of Johnny Depp-led Pirates of the Caribbean franchise is long overdue, although its lead star’s return is still in limbo. While the producer stayed tight-lipped about revealing anything about the projects, he did confirm to Entertainment Tonight that both are under development, saying, “I think it’s a horse race between the two of them, so we’ll see.” When pressed for which one is ahead in the race, he affirmed:
“Right now, Top Gun is a hair ahead, but that’s it. We’re expecting a script shortly.”
What Do We Know About ‘Top Gun 3’?
The success of the Top Gun sequel in a post-pandemic period practically saved Hollywood when it hit four summers ago. The way fans turned up to see Maverick and his new squadron cemented their love for cinema and eagerness to see movies on the big screen. So the bar for Top Gun 3 is going to be really high. Kosinski previously revealed the status of the script to Collider, saying, “I’ve said a few things about it. We’re working on it. Ehren Kruger’s writing the script as we speak. The idea of it is very exciting.” He further shared the scope of the film, revealing, “The scale of it is massive. It’s going to make Maverick feel small in comparison, honestly. That’s all I want to say. It’s very exciting. But we’re working on the script.”
Meanwhile, Top Gun: Maverick is streaming on Paramount, and you can check out F1 on Apple TV. Stay tuned to Collider for more such updates.
- Release Date
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May 27, 2022
- Runtime
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130 Minutes
- Writers
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Ashley Miller, Justin Marks, Peter Craig, Zack Stentz
- Prequel(s)
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Top Gun
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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was “proud” of Vladylsav Heraskevych, adding, “Having courage is worth more than any medal.”
By Jennifer Asencio
| Published
Episode 5 of The Pendragon Cycle: Rise of the Merlin is titled “The Price of Failure.” While that may seem like the name of a young adult book, it’s a layered story that deftly establishes the future of the legends we know.
The cold open is not the only time we see Merlin as a child, as his past is woven throughout the episode through flashbacks that explain his “missing years.” All this history is resurrected in his memory by a necessary return to the lands of Yr Hen Ogledd, the site of his childhood. His Atlantean heritage doesn’t help him, either, since he’s hardly aged while people he knew in his youth have.
Meanwhile, Aurellius and Uther have gathered the kings of England to make an alliance that names Aurellius high king, where they are having troubles of their own. Gorlas has the most battle experience and thinks he should lead the armies, much to the chagrin of notorious hothead Uther. But when Uther goes to negotiate with the war leader, his life will be changed forever.
A Step Back From The Previous Episode
This episode wasn’t quite as good as the last, mainly because it lacks the kind of large-scale battles that made the last so intense. However, there is a lot of drama here, as tense negotiations are taking place across England. Gorlas, played by experienced Arthurian actor Chick Allan, delivers vigorous opposition, but the intrigue runs throughout as characters work at cross-purposes to undercut one another.
There are a couple of instances of errant CGI in the episode: Merlin’s eyes always seem to glow when he does something magical, and this hasn’t improved. A wonderful scene of approaching Saxon ships would have been even better (and eerier) had it looked a tad less cartoony. Merlin’s magic tricks this time aren’t as overwhelming as they should be, including a levitation scene in which the harness on the actor is so obvious that you can tell where the crane must have been. I have to admire the use of practical effects and the adept deletion of their mechanics, but it reduced the dramatic effect of what was supposed to be an important scene.
However, these scenes are offset by attention to other important facets of production.
You’ll Believe You’re In The World Of King Arthur
The makeup that comprises wounds and injuries that are important to the story is very well done and really conveys the savagery of 6th-century fighting. A scene in a medical tent is brutal in its realism. None of this ever devolves into gore, but empathetic viewers will cringe and wince along with the patient.
The settings this time were extremely well-done. The war camp brings the audience into the reality of early medieval campaigns. Most notable is the stronghold of Goddeu, which is stunning both inside and out. I can forgive if the long exterior shot was CGI, because the interior sets brought it to vivid life as a working structure with real people living within its walls.
The natural scenery steals the show, though. Lush groves are juxtaposed with green-blue river valleys and rocky coasts. One mountainous valley where a child gets lost conveys such urgency and isolation that it makes me wonder how many other children have wandered through there and never come back. The lighting that accompanies the episode’s resolution illuminates it in gorgeous gold, heightening the scene’s contrast.
Great Performances Continue Carrying Pendragon
Alex Laurence-Phillips once again shines as Merlin’s sidekick Pellaus. He doesn’t have as much to do in this episode other than comment about events, but his snappy dialogue, coupled with the actor’s comic timing and expressive delivery, make him the best part of the show. This was the only thing that kept me engaged in the events in Goddeu.
Myles Clohessy’s Uther displays all the character’s infamous temperament, while Aurellius, played by Finney Cassidy, confidently holds in at bay while trying to charm the other kings. The dance between them and Gorlas was so engaging that, no matter how gorgeous the set of Goddeu was, I couldn’t help but want to be back in the war camp watching the machinations taking place. The men dominated this episode, with only two important female characters involved: the mysterious Ganieda and a young princess with a big destiny.
Arthurian Legend And Christianity Collide
Fans of Arthurian legend will start to recognize the names of some of these characters. Uther, for example, is a very important figure to Camelot, and so is Morgain. A few of the other names are more obscure, and I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but once these figures begin to come into the scene, it’s hard not to anticipate what’s coming.
What must be said for Stephen Lawhead’s writing and Jeremy Boreing’s adaptation is that they were very aware of this when they wrote it, and they use what the audience thinks it knows against us. Just when you think you know what’s going to happen, that anticipation is deftly subverted without being ignored.
Christianity appears a little more prominently in this episode, as key characters have converted to the new religion. The overtones are a little thick at times, but the show has still gone out of its way not to attack or denigrate other religions. The cold open contradicts itself by declaring an action ignorant, then showing the very same character performing the ignorant act, but religion in the episode is highlighted by one of Rose Reid’s few appearances, when Charis gives Merlin very sage advice about belief.
The Pendragon Cycle Maintains A High Level Of Quality
Although Episode 5 wasn’t quite as good as its predecessor and doesn’t use the techniques that succeeded for Episode 4, the script is still strong enough to be interesting. Once again, I compare it to its most famous competitor, Game of Thrones, because there is a very similar struggle going on. Several people think they should be in control of events and are willing to come to blows for it. The biggest difference between that show and this one is that the places were real, and the diffracted kings recorded in poetry.
The Pendragon Cycle: Rise of the Merlin has risen to the level of the Westeros saga, and even when there’s not a lot of action, there’s still plenty of conflict. There are only two episodes left after this one, and it will be exciting to see how the series concludes. Episode 5 drops at 9 pm on Thursday on Daily Wire+.
James Patterson‘s Cross returned for a second season — but who did and didn’t come back to the cast after a shocking onscreen split and another surprise hookup?
Cross, which premiered in 2024, is based on the Alex Cross novel series written by Patterson. The series follows forensic psychologist and homicide D.C. Metro Detective Alex Cross, who pursues some of America’s most dangerous killers. Together with his partner, Cross navigates the perils of the criminal underworld while trying to keep his family safe.
In addition to Mason and Lillard, Cross stars Aldis Hodge, Isaiah Mustafa, Juanita Jennings, Alona Tal, Samantha Walkes, Caleb Elijah, Melody Hurd and Jennifer Wigmore.
“Every time you go into a job, every episode is a new adventure. You really have no idea what’s coming because both of us went in and auditioned. We fought for these parts and at that point, Cross hadn’t existed yet. The TV show hadn’t been on yet. So when we got the jobs, we were signing on to the 10 pages that we had as sides to audition for,” Lillard, who plays Lance, exclusively told Us Weekly in February 2026. “It’s a real joy playing these characters and being a part of this world [because] Cross is now this worldwide phenomenon.”
All good things must come to an end, even when it comes to TV. Over the years, many television stars have suddenly left their roles — while others have been cut from a series without much notice. Anna Faris announced in September 2020 that she was leaving CBS’ Mom after starring as the lead character […]
Lillard praised Cross’ viewership, adding, “They got 40 million views in the first 20 days. So we’re now really excited to be a part of this hit show. We are excited about people joining us on this whole journey. It’s gonna be a blast.”
Keep scrolling to see who did and didn’t return for season 2 of Cross:
Aldis Hodge
There would be no Alex Cross without the main character so Aldis Hodge is still front and center in season 2.
Isaiah Mustafa
Similar to Aldis Hodge, Isaiah Mustafa is back as Detective John Sampson.
Alona Tal
Season 2 took Alona Tal’s character Kayla for a turn when her work with Alex Cross led to them sleeping together.
Samantha Walkes
Speaking of Alex Cross’ love life, Samantha Walkes is back as Elle in season 2 but she is no longer dating him when the show picked back up.
Jennifer Wigmore
After being a main cast member in season 1, Jennifer Wigmore’s Chief April Anderson is now credited as a special guest star.
Eloise Mumford
Eloise Mumford was introduced as Shannon in season 1 — a role that she isn’t reprising moving forward.
Ryan Eggold
While Ryan Eggold was the major villain in season 1 a.k.a Ed Ramsey isn’t expected to come back for more episodes.
Jeanine Mason
Season 2 introduced Jeanine Mason as the new person Alex Cross was hunting down. She is named Rebecca but her real name is Luz.
Wes Chatham
Another newcomer is Wes Chatham, who is starring in the role of Donnie throughout the sophomore season.
Johnny Ray Gill
Bobby Trey appeared in season 1 but is still playing a role in season 2.
Matthew Lillard
Matthew Lillard has been cast as billionaire CEO of Crestbrook Industries Lance Durand in season 2.
Over the years, KISS rocker Gene Simmons has made his thoughts clear about hip-hop, especially its place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
He reaffirmed his belief and shared his thoughts in a podcast appearance, reigniting discussion among fans.
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Gene Simmons Said He Doesn’t Come From The ‘Ghetto’
On February 7, the 76-year-old KISS bassist was a guest on the podcast “Legends N Leaders,” and while conversing with host Ben Weiss, he reiterated his long-standing view on hip-hop’s place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Simmons said, “It’s not my music. I don’t come from the ghetto. It doesn’t speak my language,” adding that he’s shared his opinion many times before and still believes “hip-hop does not belong in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, nor does opera or symphony orchestras…”
“How come the New York Philharmonic doesn’t get into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame? Because it’s called the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,” the rocker added.
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The Rocker Expressed His Opinion On Rap Music
In an interview with Rolling Stone back in 2016, Simmons shared his disdain for rap, telling the outlet, “I am looking forward to the death of rap,” which he said is “just talking.”
“A song, as far as I’m concerned, is by definition lyric and melody… or just melody,” he added.
That same year, hip-hop group N.W.A. was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, per Billboard. During their speech, MC Ren took the time to address Simmons and said, “I want to say to Mr. Gene Simmons that hip-hop is here forever. We’re supposed to be here.”
Rapper and actor Ice Cube was also in attendance and, in his speech, stated that hip-hop is rock ‘n’ roll:
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“Rock ‘n’ roll is not an instrument. It’s not even a style of music. It’s a spirit that’s been going on since the blues, jazz, bebop, soul, rock ‘n’ roll, R&B, heavy metal, punk rock, and yes, hip-hop.”
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Gene Simmons Exchanged Remarks With Ice Cube
Simmons mentioned in the podcast that he and Ice Cube had gone “back and forth” on the issue, each of them expressing their opinion on why hip-hop should or shouldn’t be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
“He’s a bright guy, and I respect what he’s done… He shot back that it’s the ‘spirit’ of rock and roll… So Ice Cube and Grandmaster Flash and all these guys are in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame,” the KISS member said. He then rhetorically asked when English rock band Led Zeppelin was going to be included in the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame.
The Hip-Hop Hall of Fame was founded in 1992 as a non-profit organization for preserving hip-hop culture.
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“Music has labels because it describes an approach. Hip-hop and rap is a spoken word art. There are some melodies but, by and large, it’s a verbal thing,” Simmons explained.
The First Hip-Hop Group Inducted Into The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame
In 2007, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five was the first hip-hop group inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The group is considered one of the pioneers of hip-hop music, using innovative techniques and fusing hip-hop with deejaying.
“Grandmaster and the Furious Five were innovators. Sonically, their new techniques and equipment expanded the sound of hip-hop. Lyrically, their masterpiece ‘The Message’ exposed the dirty underside of a landscape known for partying–and no one saw it coming,” reads a blurb from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Other hip-hop artists who have since been inducted include Jay-Z, Eminem, The Notorious B.I.G., 2 Pac, Beastie Boys, and Run DMC.
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Social Media Users React To Gene Simmons’ Comment
Simmons’ comments made the rounds on social media, and many posted their opinion about what the rocker said.
“I love both genres. I listen to rap more than rock n roll these days. He’s totally right though. It is a bit weird,” one shared. “Gene is correct! Rap and hip-hop aren’t even music, they’re just chants with a beat,” another added. “I don’t like Simmons, but in this case he is 100% right,” a user wrote.
A user, on the other hand, disagreed, saying, “Ice Cube is right. Hip Hop became the new Rock N Roll over 40+ years ago.” Another commented, “Rap has more of a worldwide impact than any other genre of music. Not to mention Black people created Rock & Roll so yes, rappers should be included.”
Many also pointed out that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame should just be renamed to the Music Hall of Fame as a way to settle the debate.
By Jonathan Klotz
| Published
Stranger Things finally ended late last year, to a mixed reception from fans, some of whom were holding out hope for a secret final episode that would give them the real ending. That never happened, but instead, rumors are circulating that Stranger Things: The First Shadow, the Broadway play about Vecna’s early life, will be filmed this week for a future release on Netflix. The streamer has yet to officially confirm the rumors originally reported by Collider, but if true, this is the strangest release strategy possible.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow Breaks Free Of Containment
Stranger Things: The First Shadow premiered in London’s West End back in 2023. At the time, the Duffer brothers explained that the play would be considered canon, which turned out to be true when the finale referenced the play within the play, “Dark of the Moon,” Henry Creel’s time as a student at Hawkins High, and most importantly, Henry’s experience in the cave. Viewers watching the finale didn’t know why the cave was so terrifying to Henry, who the man was with the case inside it, and why that rock was so important. Now, months after the finale, fans unable to attend the play will be able to connect the dots.
As the final season aired, fans on social media complained that only a small fraction could watch the play and understand key lore, leaving many feeling the season was incomplete. Stranger Things: The First Shadow was a unique way to introduce Henry’s background and expand on the origins of the Upside Down with a wild new twist that ,again, the Duffers have said will be vitally important to the franchise going forward. It’s understandable that Netflix would finally relent and allow the play to be filmed for the streaming service since the upcoming prequel goes deep into what started this mess in the first place.
No one has said which of the Stranger Things: The First Shadow casts will perform in the filmed version, and again, it hasn’t been officially confirmed, but the play did black out time this month, which is highly unusual while a performance is running. Ever since it was first announced, rumors swirled that the play would eventually be streamable, but at this point, it feels like any rumor about the franchise’s future could be true. Or none of them.
The Murky Future Of Stranger Things
Stranger Things: Tales From ‘85, the upcoming animated series set between Seasons 2 and 3 and based on the canceled video game, is the only spin-off confirmed to be coming anytime soon. The upcoming spin-off set in a different decade with an entirely different cast is rumored to center on the mysterious stone, the establishment of the Nevada research lab, and how the Philadelphia Experiment ties into the arrival of the Mind Flayer. Then again, it’s also rumored to be set in the 90s with a different generation of kids battling a re-emergence of the Mind Flayer.
The big question is, will any of this satisfy Stranger Things fans who were let down by the final season? The answer is no, because in today’s world, fandoms of all types run away with their own headcanon and theories about what should really happen, though in their defense, some fans have fantastic and creative ideas that really do outshine canon. Stranger Things: The First Shadow, finally getting a wide release months after it mattered, will be salt in the wounds of the series’ biggest fans.
Entertainment
“Love Is Blind” creator says unseen season 10 couple 'broke off their engagement the next day' (exclusive)
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Elissa Finley (the woman who went to the hospital after putting nail glue in her eye) and Miguel Lopez filmed an in-person reveal that wasn’t shown onscreen.
You know how the timeline hits differently when someone steps in looking unstoppable? This week, Keyshia Cole reminded everyone why she’s still a queen on the ‘Gram, giving fans a serious dose of glam and confidence that had everyone double-tapping.
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Keyshia Cole Serves Body, Drip, And Mirror Energy
Keyshia turned heads in a sculpted yellow dress that hugged every curve, featuring one long sleeve and one sleeveless side, perfectly showing off that bawdy. She accessorized with an iced-out chain, hoop earrings, a few rings, and freshly done nails, while her face was beat to perfection and her blonde side-part bob added that finishing touch. In her mirror snaps, Keyshia worked the camera effortlessly — one shot full-on baddie energy, the next blowing kisses to her fans — proving once again that she’s serving looks and mood in equal measure.
Fans Swooning Over Mama’s Mirror Slay
As soon as the pics dropped, fans flooded TSR’s Instagram comment section with praise for Keyshia Cole. Many shared that she’s finally starting to remember who she is, while others couldn’t help but call that look “heaven sent, babyyyyy.” Meanwhile, plenty were shook that she’s in her 40s, claiming she’s straight-up aging backwards.
One Instagram user @greatblackmusicandartist commented, “Heaven Sent 👌🏾🙏🏾”
And, Instagram user @manibigbody added, “She’s NEVER lost it love me some Keyshia!🔥😍”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @binti_ya_oshun wrote, “We looking good in our 40’s 🥰 She just got better with time“
While Instagram user @strawberry_shortcakeee_123 shared, “Keyshia finally realizing she’s keyshia Cole , love to see it 😍”
Then Instagram user @goodrxsnoop said, “Gotta Love Them Cougars 🔥🔥”
Finally, Instagram user @momitch added, “Look tf good! Aging backwards for sure 🤪😍”
Keyshia Ain’t The Only One Heating Up Timelines
And Keyshia ain’t the only one giving spicy energy and turning heads lately. When it comes to a dance challenge, you might as well tap Claressa Shields in, because the GWOAT stepped up and brought straight summer vibes to the ‘Liberian Girl’ Challenge. Rocking a yellow two-piece with a crop top and pleated mini skirt, she added her own sauce to the spicy moves — especially when it came to the twerk — before sealing it with a smooth walk-off that basically said she left zero crumbs.
@theshaderoom Ohkay! #ClaressaShields hops on the LiberianGirlChallenge! How did she do?✍🏾#TSRStaffAS #fyp #foryoupage
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What Do You Think Roomies?
Taylor Armstrong
Sorry for Bashing Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Show!!!
Published
Taylor Armstrong is backpedaling hard … apologizing after saying she was embarrassed by Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show.
As you know, the “RHOBH” alum blasted the performance for being “totally in Spanish with a Cuban flag!!” … but in a lengthy IG post Wednesday, she clarified she simply didn’t personally connect with the show’s creative direction.
Taylor said as an American she understands Spanish is a major part of U.S. culture … and she confessed her “lack of awareness of the Latin culture” led her to mistakenly label the flag Cuban.
She says she plans to do better, learn from the moment, and insists she never meant to hurt anyone … adding America’s strength is in people of all backgrounds sharing their talents.
As we reported, Bad Bunny’s halftime show sparked debate from the jump, with critics questioning the NFL’s choice of a mostly Spanish-language headliner. Still, controversy clearly didn’t scare viewers off — a massive 128.2 million people tuned in!
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