Olivia Rodrigo isn’t letting outrage have the final word. After discovering that one of her biggest songs had been used in a Department of Homeland Security social media post promoting ICE deportations, the Grammy winner transformed her frustration into a broader campaign encouraging civic participation. 

Instead of allowing the controversy to dominate the narrative, Rodrigo is urging fans to get informed ahead of the 2026 midterm elections through a new initiative tied to her upcoming Daisy Chain Fields music festival.

Olivia Rodrigo recently recalled stumbling across the controversial Homeland Security video while scrolling through her phone, admitting the discovery left her shocked.

Speaking to Dazed Magazine in June ahead of the release of her third studio album, the singer said seeing “All-American B-tch” used alongside immigration enforcement footage made the situation even more upsetting.

“It was so deeply disturbing to see that propaganda, and the fact it was my song in there made me feel even more enraged,” Rodrigo said. “What they’re doing is so awful and barbaric and cruel. I am really sad to be in a country that thinks that’s okay.”

Advertisement

The November 4, 2025 video featured footage of ICE agents detaining people of color while Rodrigo’s 2023 track played in the background. 

Alongside the images, the Department of Homeland Security wrote, “LEAVE NOW and self-deport using the CBP Home app. If you don’t, you will face the consequences,” while lyrics from the song, “All the time, I’m grateful all the time, I’m sexy and I’m kind, I’m pretty when I cry,” appeared throughout the clip.

Rodrigo didn’t stay silent as she responded directly beneath the post, writing, “Don’t ever use my songs to promote your racist, hateful propaganda.”

Following her comment, the audio was removed from the video, and fans praised her in the comments for speaking out.

Advertisement

Rodrigo Launches Midterm Initiative Through Festival Giveaway

4

Rather than limiting her response to social media, Olivia Rodrigo has tied her latest campaign to the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.

The 23-year-old is partnering with nonprofit organization HeadCount to encourage fans to prepare for Election Day by checking their voter registration status, registering to vote, or accessing election information through the organization’s website.

As an incentive, participants can enter a sweepstakes for VIP tickets to Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields festival, with the grand prize also including hotel accommodations and travel expenses.

HeadCount emphasized that civic participation is entirely optional for anyone entering the giveaway.

“You may enter the sweepstakes by clicking any button above without taking a civic action,” the organization stated per The News Republic, adding, “Voting, registering to vote, or being a registered voter is not required.”

Advertisement

Olivia Rodrigo’s Festival Will Blend Music And Advocacy

4

Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields festival is also being designed with activism at its core.

In addition to performances from artists including Chappell Roan, Doechii, Santigold, Sarah McLachlan, Mitski, and The Breeders, the event will feature organizations focused on issues ranging from reproductive rights and maternal health to economic empowerment, domestic violence prevention, and gender equity.

Among the participating organizations are the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, the Center for Reproductive Rights, Planned Parenthood, and the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health.

Rodrigo Speaks Out Against Los Angeles ICE Raids

4

Slamming the Department of Homeland Security wasn’t the first time Olivia Rodrigo spoke against Trump’s administration. 

In 2025, she joined the growing chorus of public figures condemning the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids across Los Angeles, saying the operations left her “deeply upset.” 

In a statement shared on her Instagram Stories, the singer wrote, “I’ve lived in LA my whole life and I’m deeply upset about these violent deportations of my neighbors under the current administration.” 

Advertisement

Rodrigo went on to praise the city’s immigrant communities, adding, “LA simply wouldn’t exist without immigrants. Treating hardworking community members with such little respect, empathy, and due process is awful.” 

She also voiced support for those protesting the raids, saying, “I stand with the beautiful, diverse community of Los Angeles and with immigrants all across America. I stand for our right to freedom of speech and freedom to protest.” 

Rodrigo concluded by urging fans to support local immigrant organizations and remain engaged during a period of heightened immigration enforcement.  

Rodrigo Explains Why She Refuses To Stay Silent On Politics

4

Olivia Rodrigo’s outspoken response came as little surprise, as she had previously opened up about why she chooses to use her platform to address political issues.

Last month, she revealed that speaking out on political issues has never been about winning everyone’s approval. 

Advertisement

In an interview with the BBC, the Grammy winner reflected on why she continued to publicly address topics ranging from reproductive rights and Gaza to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), despite knowing it could alienate some fans. 

“I definitely try to be careful with my words,” Rodrigo said, adding, “But simultaneously, the women I looked up to when I was young were really outspoken, and that was one of the reasons I adored them.” 

The “High School Musical” actress added that she no longer felt pressure to appeal to everyone, explaining, “I don’t think my goal is to be liked by all. And when you de-centre that as the primary motivation, I think everything becomes a lot more joyful.”

Advertisement

Cool girl Olivia Wilde doesn’t dress in ‘bum’ attire, but her latest look proves that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for fashion. Her loose-fitting trousers style is incredibly luxe and polished, and we found a version that secretly feels like sweats.

Spotted in New York City, Wilde wore a simple tee, canvas tote and loafers — and elevated the entire look with billowy, ultra wide-leg trousers. Her pants turned a basic T-shirt into something genuinely classy, and these flowy wonders do the same. Nearly 15,000 shoppers sing their praises!

These Tronjori Wide-Leg Trousers look identical to Wilde’s, featuring a high waist, sharp front pleats and a fluid drape that swings when you walk. The architectural shape reads expensive from across the street, making even a $10 tee look like it came from a Tribeca boutique.

Related: 17 Boutique-Style White Dresses That Make the Easiest Summer Uniform

Little black dresses have their place, but let’s be real — it’s summertime, and that means wearing chic white dresses. Whether you’re running errands, brunching with the girls or vacationing in Europe, these 17 staple stunners have you covered. With loose, billowy fits, unique details and the occasional embroidered accents, these boutique-like numbers look much […]

Advertisement

We don’t know what Wilde’s felt like, but these white pants might be even comfier, thanks to the hidden elasticized waistband. One Amazon shopper wrote, “These are like breezy sweatpants for work! They are effortless and chic and elevate any look. The waistband is stretchy and they are certified sitting pants that won’t suffocate your stomach.”

Another happy fan shared, “I got an office job this year and realized I had no professional pants to wear. I’m a sweatpants person through and through. These are lightweight and comfortable, just like sweatpants!”

Add comfy loafers, your favorite bag and sunglasses, and you’ve got a uniform that carries you from in-office days to dinner reservations without a change of clothes.

As a bonus, these trendy trousers come in dozens of colors and short, regular and tall lengths. We’re partial to Wilde’s white style, but like many other reviewers, we’re also tempted to grab a few. At just $38, these chic pants are the easiest way to make any outfit appear expensive.

Get the Tronjori Wide-Leg Trousers for $38 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.

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

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –>

Advertisement

Related: Jennifer Lawrence‘s Comfy Yet Elevated Pants Put Loungewear to Shame

Jennifer Lawrence is the queen of elevated loungewear, and this time, she’s outdone herself. Lawrence’s billowy black pants make her entire outfit appear expensive, and we found the comfy-chic look for only $20 on Amazon. Spotted pedaling through New York City, Lawrence wore a loose button-up shirt, slide sandals and flowy lounge pants. Unlike stiff […]

By Charlene Badasie
| Published 32 seconds ago

The mystery drama The OA is streaming on Netflix. Created by Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij, the series consists of two seasons, each with eight episodes. Season 1 begins with a young woman named Prairie Johnson (Brit Marling) returning to her hometown after being missing for seven years. Despite having been blind before her disappearance, she reappears with her sight restored.

Follows The Original Angel

Prairie, who now calls herself The OA (Original Angel), refuses to share details of her missing years with her adoptive parents or the authorities. Instead, she recruits five local folks to whom she reveals her story. She describes her near-death experiences and visions, which she believes led her to other dimensions.

She was held captive by a scientist named Dr. Hap (Jason Isaacs), along with others who had near-death experiences. As the story of The OA on Netflix progresses, Prairie and her group decide to rescue those who are still being held captive by Dr. Hap’s experiments. The second season takes the story to a new dimension, where Prairie lives as wealthy Russian heiress Nina Azarova (Zoey Todorovsky).

As Nina continues her search for the other captives and seeks to uncover the truth behind her multiple realities. Season 2 also introduces detective Karim Washington (Kingsley Ben-Adir), who is investigating the disappearance of a young woman connected to a strange house with supernatural properties.

Breaks Down The Nature Of Reality

The OA weaves together Prairie’s journey and Karim’s investigation, leading to a climactic revelation about the nature of reality and the multiverse. Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij spent two years developing the series before Netflix picked it up. The show’s production involved extensive world-building and a commitment to maintaining its mysterious and philosophical tone.

The series received mostly positive reviews from critics following its Netflix debut. The OA, in its entirety, currently holds an 84 percent critic and audience score on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. However, the series did have some detractors who found the blend of sci-fi and supernatural elements overly ambiguous and slow-paced.

Uses Every Available Cent Of Its Production Budget

The OA showcases low-budget Netflix sci-fi at its best, using everyday suburban settings like Costco and Olive Garden to tell a compelling story. Minimal CGI is used, except for a few key scenes. Instead, the immersive experience is achieved through Brit Marling’s soothing narration, Ryan Heffington’s choreography, and Rostam Batmanglij’s enchanting theme song.

At its core, The OA on Netflix highlights the importance of second chances and acceptance. The OA’s group comprises several flawed individuals from all walks of life whose imperfections make them special yet vulnerable. Prairie connects with them not because they are perfect but because of their potential to grow as a collective.

Despite its critical acclaim, The OA was canceled by Netflix after two seasons, leaving the show with a cliffhanger ending. Fans later launched a campaign to save it, including a physical performance in front of Netflix headquarters and a GoFundMe campaign for a Times Square billboard. Although a movie to provide closure was considered, the idea was ultimately scrapped by Netflix.

By Jeffrey Rapaport
| Published 1 hour ago

Okja was and remains a unique, memorable Netflix original, and that is saying something, considering that other titles on the platform include Squid Game and Stranger Things. The movie masterfully blends sci-adventure goodness with biting, surprisingly engaging satire. But that’s what one expects from the beloved director Bong Joon-ho, whose film, despite its family-friendly aesthetic, deftly navigates the admittedly complex world of corporate greed, animal rights, and the food industry. 

The ultimate narrative is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking; think Pixar meets Parasite. 

Genetically Modified Super-Pig

The film relates the tale of young Mija, played by Ahn Seo-hyun, an adolescent launched on a daring mission to rescue her best friend, a genetically modified super-pig, Okja. Said super-hog is in the dastardly clutches of the all-powerful Mirando Corporation, a shadowy, massively influential entity headed by an eccentric (to put it mildly), morally ambiguous CEO, Lucy Mirando, portrayed by Tilda Swinton. 

Unsurprisingly, Mirando harbors sinister plans for the poor pig, considering the animal little more than a prospective piggy bank. 

Not A Feel-Good Flick

Before you file this movie under the category of feel-good flick ideal for kids, consider that it’s endowed with an uncommonly sharp satirical edge. As much as in the rest of his filmography, Bong Joon-ho utilized Okja as a vehicle to seamlessly blend genres. 

Comedy, sci-fi, drama, and even bits of horror fuse masterfully, eventuating a merciless critique of the heartless modern food industry alongside the difficult ethical dilemmas it poses. For example, the movie does not pull punches when it comes to portraying the Mirando Corporation as a kind of larger-than-life, slightly surreal Monsanto (obviously, the film’s name references this real-life corporate agro-business behemoth). 

The scathing commentary, detailing unflinchingly the distance companies go to reap profit, regardless of ethics or humanity, strikes a nerve. Through the endlessly talented Swinton, Lucy Mirando embodies this theme wonderfully: she’s Okja’s superb, loathsome, fascinating villain, a latter day Cruella de Vil. 

And the movie’s satire does not halt there, but includes the world of activism in its sights. Indeed, the Animal Liberation Front endures as much satire as the corporate world; led by the earnest yet flawed Jay, played by Paul Dano, the group employs misguided and extreme measures, reflecting this much disapproved tendency of activist groups. 

The Animal Liberation Front Called Into Question

In all fairness, while Joon-ho doesn’t shy away from giving ALF their due, the filmmaker also documents their noble intentions, layered atop their questionable tactics. Genuine complexity results, which enriches the film overall. 

Perhaps most memorably, the movie is more than mere critique; it is a deeply emotional saga of friendship and loyalty. The incredibly resonant bond between Mija and Okja is the beating heart of the film, one that strikingly elicits much feels.

Stream Okja On Netflix Today

Acting as a sharp contrast to the cold, calculated Mirando Corp, the relationship conveys genuine innocence and purity–however surrounded by widespread corruption and exploitation. 

Visually, too, the film delivers, particularly when it comes to the CGI used to engender the super-pig. While CGI can sometimes flop, it excels here, eventuating a believable and endearing creature. Particularly, the film’s cinematography—especially the scene’s location in the lush highlands of South Korea or the teeming NYC streets—supplies welcome visual appeal.

For a winsome, emotionally gripping, and impressively smart satire, stream Okja on Netflix today.

By Robert Scucci
| Published 14 seconds ago

The late 90s and early aughts were rife with raunchy comedies, some of which fared better than others. 1998’s There’s Something About Mary was an instant classic that cleaned house at the box office, and 2005’s The 40-Year-Old Virgin marked a return to form for the genre. Those years in between, however, produced some rough entries that are all but forgotten today because they placed too much emphasis on tasteless gags over meaningful storytelling. 2001’s Tomcats is one such film, and it’s honestly a rough watch, but not for the reasons you’d think.

The film’s overall setup, conflict, and story beats are all solid, believe it or not, but they’re simply used as a springboard for as many raunchy gags as humanly possible. If you’re into that kind of thing, you’ll probably have a good time with Tomcats, but I have no qualms saying its 13 percent critical score on Rotten Tomatoes comes from the fact that most of these gags don’t add anything to the movie. Instead, they pad the runtime with cheap laughs rather than character development.

A Great Wager And Setup

Tomcats starts at a wedding, where a group of bachelors make a wager. They all throw money into a high-yield account, and the last single man standing gets to claim the pot. As time passes and interest accrues, we’re left with two bachelors, Michael Delaney (Jerry O’Connell) and Kyle Brenner (Jake Busey), and roughly $500,000 up for grabs.

After a falling out with his girlfriend, Shelby (Julia Schultz), Michael racks up a substantial gambling debt with a casino pit boss named Carlos (Bill Maher), who says in no uncertain terms that if the money isn’t paid back within 30 days, he’ll be killed. Knowing the only way he can make good on what he owes, Michael hatches a plan to trick Kyle into getting married.

Michael learns there’s only one woman Kyle would ever consider settling down with: Natalie (Shannon Elizabeth), a woman he had a one-night stand with at a wedding years earlier, ditched on the side of the road with a roll of quarters, and thinks of as the one that got away. As it turns out, Natalie works as an undercover officer, knows how to profile people, and agrees to sabotage Kyle’s bachelor lifestyle in exchange for half the winnings. At this point, we only vaguely know about Natalie’s history with Kyle, and the fun comes from wondering whether she’s simply in it for the money or if that’s just an added bonus to a revenge plot she has against him.

From this point forward, it’s basically a sizzle reel of sex gags, gamer words, and even an entire sequence involving a lost testicle at the hospital that adds about 10 minutes but no substance to the story. It will, however, probably make you want to throw up in your mouth. You’ll know it when you see it.

Too Much Funny Equals Not Funny

Odds are, if you’re firing up Tomcats, it’s because you’re looking for some offensive humor to gawk at, and there’s nothing wrong with that. The problem is that movies like this focus more on the gags than the storytelling, which is a shame. This is exactly the kind of humor I’m tuning in for, but it needs to be anchored in somewhat believable scenarios and carried by people who are at least a little likable.

That’s why There’s Something About Mary and Knocked Up work while this film fails to stick the landing. Michael isn’t necessarily an unlikable protagonist, but he doesn’t have much of a personality either. He’s just a conduit for jokes. Kyle, who’s supposed to be his foil, is the most reprehensible womanizer to ever grace the silver screen, and his exploits are fun to watch, especially when they backfire. But again, he’s just another conduit for jokes that could just as easily be swapped with any other male character in the movie.

It’s almost as if every guy in this movie is based on the same archetype. One’s a little smarter, one’s a little more sensitive, and so on. They’re all variations of the same guy, so whenever a joke needs to be jammed into a scene, anybody can reliably deliver it. As much as this sounds like a good idea, it doesn’t work in a comedy where you’re dealing with some pretty awful people from start to finish.

The romance between Michael and Natalie develops into a satisfying arc, but by the time we get there, it’s one lost testicle, Jake Busey in a thong, and a grandma dominatrix scene too late. There’s simply too much schtick without ever giving you room to breathe.

Is Tomcats a misunderstood classic? Far from it. Is it 13 percent bad? I’m inclined to say no, but I wouldn’t put it above 30 percent either. It’s one of those films that relies on you trusting your own taste and whether you enjoy the talent involved. There are some clever one-liners and sight gags worth checking out, but the whole is far less than the sum of its parts.

As of this writing, Tomcats is streaming free on Tubi.

Watching reruns after reruns of a show can be so fulfilling. The comfort of knowing how it ends, but still enjoying it, feels like heaven. But what if there was another way to immerse oneself in the beautiful memory without having to start a rerun? Here’s the secret: video games. There’s so much more to explore in the world, and if you’re a gamer, you will know how a game helps you admire it and refresh after a hard day, all at the same time.

But where’s the connection, you ask? Over the years, some incredible TV shows have been made into user-friendly video games that let you improve your skills and reminisce about old shows simultaneously. And if your favorite show is one of those, make it a point to play the game now!

10

‘Beavis & Butt-Head’ (1994)

Beavis and Butt-Head, the sneering idlers from MTV’s hit animated comedy series, got their own game on the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo in 1994. In the game, Beavis and Butt-Head have obtained tickets to a Gwar concert, but as luck would have it, they’re now in shreds.

Players can alternate playing as Beavis or Butt-Head as they search high and low for the pieces of the ticket. While the game is relatively simple, the animation, voice acting, and music make it remarkable, which will make you feel like you are a character in the 2-D world.

9

‘Duck Tales: Remastered’ (2013)

A classic action game from Capcom, DuckTales: Remastered allows users to take control of Scrooge McDuck as he tours the world and beyond, looking for more rare treasures to add to his collection. The game is relatively simple and boasts of being a platformer-style game. The game sold over a million copies worldwide, a considerable number by 1990 standards.

While initially released for PlayStation 3, the iOS version of DuckTales garnered better reviews. The game isn’t highly competitive but is definitely fun, interactive, and nostalgic.

8

‘The Adventures of Batman & Robin’ (1994)

What comes to mind when you think of the ’90s? Chicago Bulls a contending team? Nostalgic ’90s cartoons? MTV’s fantastic music? Even better: Konami producing awesome action games? It was then that The Adventures of Batman & Robin was released, following the hit Batman: The Animated Series.

The game offered incredible graphics and sound and features some incredibly challenging puzzles that players must solve over the course of the game. Directly influenced by the TV show, the game has the same cartoony and comic-book feel. But, of course, this was long before Christopher Nolan steered the franchise towards a darker version.

7

‘Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3’ (2004)

The Dragon Ball game series launched its first installment in 2002 and lasted until its last release in 2012. The third installment in the series, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai 3, was released in 2004 and was the most talked-about. The game had better reviews than its predecessors, with improved graphics and sound, and the gameplay was far ahead of the previous games.

Players can play in story mode, versus mode, a tournament, and a battle ranking stage where they compete against AI in a hundred-fighter challenge. Its massive roster of playable fighters and faithful recreation of iconic battles make it one of the greatest Dragon Ball games ever released.

6

‘Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force’ (2000)

The Star Trek Voyager: Elite Force is loved far and wide by audiences, but only for its PC version, which came out in 2000. The PlayStation version, however, is way less interactive and way more troublesome. Nevertheless, the game invoked sighs of relief from fans as they rejoiced and finally welcomed a good Star Trek game.

The game incorporates an array of characters and visually pleasing settings from the beloved sci-fi TV show. The game also includes a multiplayer mode that makes it more appealing and adds to its longevity. By combining satisfying first-person shooter mechanics with an original story that feels like an episode of the series, Elite Force remains a favorite among fans.

5

‘South Park: The Stick of Truth’ (2014)

Advertisement

In fierce competition with its successor, The Fractured but Whole, South Park: The Stick of Truth is one of the most faithful video game adaptations of all time. While otherwise at par with its sequel, the game features a more exciting and dynamic combat system. This role-playing adventure game came out in 2014 and was rated approvingly for its PC and PlayStation 3 versions.

The South Park game is based on an open-world model and includes countless inside jokes and references to the first 17 seasons for fans to reminisce. For longtime fans, it’s packed with enough references and characters to make every moment feel like an interactive episode of the series.

4

‘South Park: The Fractured but Whole’ (2017)

Advertisement

While The Stick of Truth is often considered the definitive South Park game, The Fractured but Whole is every bit as worthy of that reputation. Instead of parodying fantasy role-playing games, the sequel shifts its focus to the ever-growing popularity of superhero franchises, with Cartman rebranding himself as “The Coon” and recruiting the rest of the boys into an increasingly ridiculous battle over who deserves to headline their own cinematic universe.

Created with direct involvement from Trey Parker and Matt Stone, The Fractured but Whole feels like a playable season of South Park. Its turn-based combat is deeper and more strategic than its predecessor’s, while the dialogue, animation, and countless references perfectly recreate the experience of watching the long-running animated series.

3

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time (1991)

Advertisement

Even several decades after its release, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time is yet to be defeated when it comes to the ultimate TMNT game. The game is a sequel to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and while it takes some characteristics from the original, it ups the ante with the use of colorful graphics and varied level settings.

The Konami classic captures the essence of the ’80s cartoon show with utmost perfection and adorns an eclectic palette of extraordinary situations with incredible historical themes.

2

‘The Simpsons: Hit & Run’ (2003)

Image via Radical Entertainment

Advertisement

Since its release, numerous versions of The Simpsons video games have been made, but The Simpsons: Hit & Run is the only one you need to own. The game came out in 2003 for the GameCube, PlayStation 2, Windows, and Xbox. What separates this version from the others is its existence as a witty parody of the Grand Theft Auto series, only less brutal and much funnier.

In this well-received and competently executed game, users control Homer, Bart, Lisa, Marge, and Apu as they investigate odd occurrences in Springfield. Nearly two decades later, Hit & Run remains the gold standard for The Simpsons games and one of the greatest licensed games ever made.

1

‘The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series’ (2012)

Image via Telltale Games

Advertisement

There is no better way to execute episodic games than Telltale Games, and it’s no surprise that the attempt to create the exhilarating The Walking Dead game was a whopping success. Technically, the game is based more on the comic than the show, where every action you perform has a different consequence and can change the story’s route.

The game focuses on character and story development and often feels like you’re playing an interactive rendition of the sensational show. Critically acclaimed, The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series is as accurate a zombie apocalypse simulation as it gets.

By Chris Snellgrove
| Updated 7 hours ago

Part of what makes X-Men ‘97 so fun is that it mixes and matches some of the greatest X-Men comics of yesteryear. In Season 1, for example, we got a mix of classic storylines like “The Trial of Magneto,” “Fatal Attractions,” the attack on Genosha, and more. Season 2 just dropped, and we’re already getting fun remixes of stories like The Adventures of Cyclops and Phoenix and The Rise of Apocalypse. For the most part, all of these comic stories have something in common: they are more or less beloved by the fandom.

Now, however, the most recent episode of X-Men ‘97 seems to be setting up an adaptation of a very controversial comic book storyline. There are spoilers here, so if you haven’t already watched “The Rise of Apocalypse, Part II,” this is your last chance to do so without knowing what happens! With that said, here we go: while the exact setup differs from the comics, the most recent episode’s shocking death of Magneto is seemingly setting up the arrival of Onslaught. Who or what is Onslaught, you ask? In short, it’s a supervillain that possesses Xavier, and he was the catalyst for one of the dumbest X-Men stories ever created!

Birth Of A New Supervillain

In X-Men ‘97 Season 1, we see Magneto’s full fury unleashed. He strips the adamantium off Wolverine’s bones and tries to launch an apocalyptic electromagnetic pulse at the planet, intent on wiping out humanity. To stop this, Professor Xavier had to go into his old friend’s mind and control his magnetic powers to reverse the damage. In the comics, things went down slightly differently: Magneto successfully unleashed an EMP, albeit a smaller one. After he ripped the adamantium out of Wolverine, Xavier didn’t take control of Magneto’s powers; instead, he simply shut down the supervillain’s mind, leaving him in a coma. 

Three years later, the comics revealed something startling. When Xavier shut down Magneto’s mind, he absorbed some of its evil, and this got mixed up with much of the professor’s own repressed dark side. This created a malevolent psionic entity named Onslaught that initially hid inside Xavier’s brain. Eventually, it got out and wreaked so much havoc that the greatest heroes in the world had to team up to stop it. While some of this might sound cool on paper, it led to some of the worst Marvel comics of the ‘90s. Now, unfortunately, it looks like X-Men ‘97 is about to bring this controversial villain into the show. 

You Wouldn’t Like Him When He’s Angry

The primary ingredients for Onslaught were revealed in X-Men ‘97 Season 1. Xavier had to make extensive contact with Magneto’s mind to stop the EMP,  giving him plenty of time to absorb much of his friend’s negative energy. Now, Season 2 has added a potential catalyst: the death of Magneto. When Apocalypse kills the Master of Magnetism (but not before Xavier makes mental contact with his friend, one last time), we see how Xavier is racked with grief and rage. In the comics, the Onslaught identity emerged due to Xavier’s anger at humanity’s treatment of mutants. Now, his best friend getting brutally murdered right in front of him in X-Men ‘97 has created a more compelling reason for the professor to let his crazy out.

Now, why did fans hate the Onslaught story in the comics so much? For one thing, it was weird seeing Xavier basically become a supervillain, especially for a reason as silly as “touched minds with a supervillain,” something he had done countless times before. Also, the writers just kept adding new powers until Onslaught was basically an evil god. The whole thing became a clusterf*ck of a crossover in which a bunch of heroes had to sacrifice themselves, all so Marvel could create Heroes Reborn … a kindasorta reboot so crappy that all anyone remembers from it is Rob Liefield unleashing the single worst drawing of Captain America the world has ever seen.

Fans had plenty of other issues with Onslaught and his big crossover story, including the fact that it was used to resolve a major mystery from the ‘80s comics (who betrays the X-Men in the future?) in the worst possible way. Now, it seems this villain is destined to pop up in X-Men ‘97, possibly as the only force that can defeat Apocalypse. If that happens, though, it would likely be setting Onslaught up as the Big Bad of Season 3. I’ll do my best to keep that from happening, though. Does anybody have Bishop’s number? Because changing the future has never been more important!

Few things beat curling up with a good mystery book. At its core, the genre’s appeal lies in the satisfaction of solving a puzzle. Whether following a brilliant detective, an ordinary amateur sleuth, or even a criminal attempting to cover their tracks, readers become active participants in the story, weighing clues and trying to figure things out.

The very best mysteries reward careful observation while remaining surprising enough to leave even seasoned readers stunned when the truth finally emerges. These books are the focus of this list. They run the gamut from the classic structure of Agatha Christie to the genre hybrids of Umberto Eco and the stranger-than-fiction true-crime of Patrick Radden Keefe.

10

‘The Name of the Rose’ (1980)

“The only truth lies in learning to free ourselves from insane passion for the truth.” Set in a remote Italian monastery during the 14th century, The Name of the Rose follows the brilliant Franciscan friar William of Baskerville and his novice Adso as they investigate a string of mysterious deaths among the monastery’s monks. Every clue points toward an increasingly elaborate conspiracy hidden within one of Europe’s greatest libraries.

This book is a real gem, combining juicy murder mystery elements with genuine philosophy, theology, and well-researched medieval history. William, in particular, is a fascinating variation on the classic detective archetype. His powers of observation and logical deduction evoke Sherlock Holmes (the fact that he’s from Baskerville itself is a sly wink in this direction), yet Umberto Eco places him within an intellectually rich world dominated by religious conflict, political intrigue, and debates about knowledge itself.

9

‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ (2005)

“Everyone has secrets. It’s just a matter of finding out what they are.” The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo caused a global sensation in the mid-2000s, and for good reason. Stieg Larsson revitalized a lot of classic mystery tropes by combining them with investigative journalism, family drama, and unusually compelling characters. The story centers on journalist Mikael Blomkvist, who is hired to investigate the decades-old disappearance of a young woman who vanished from an isolated island owned by one of Sweden’s wealthiest families.

His search eventually brings him into partnership with the brilliant but enigmatic hacker Lisbeth Salander, one of the most intriguing fictional creations of that era. Her extraordinary intelligence, troubled past, and uncompromising determination quickly made her a fan favorite. Finally, the mystery itself is well-constructed. Although the plotting is dense, it never feels convoluted, contrived, or over-the-top.

8

‘London Falling’ (2026)

“Every city hides the stories it hopes no one will uncover.” London Falling is a work of nonfiction by Say Nothing‘s Patrick Radden Keefe, yet it’s stranger and more compelling than most fictional mysteries. It delves into the bizarre 2019 death of 19-year-old Zac Brettler and, in telling his story, exposes the dark, billionaire-fueled criminal underworld of modern London. The book involves gangsters, cons, secret identities, and repeated failures by the government and police.

While it’s certainly suspenseful, London Falling is also moving, especially when the author interviews Zac’s grieving, confused parents. It touches on important issues in British society today, too, in a way that feels urgent and topical. All in all, it’s a masterpiece of true-crime writing and a genuine page-turner. Not for nothing, the adaptation rights have already been sold, and A24 is reportedly planning on making it into a TV series.

7

‘The Spy Who Came In from the Cold’ (1963)

Image via Penguin

“The successful spy is the one nobody suspects.” The Spy Who Came In from the Cold is the defining book by espionage master John le Carré. In it, British operative Alec Leamas is preparing to retire after one final failed mission when he is assigned an elaborate undercover operation designed to infiltrate East German intelligence. But as the mission unfolds, Leamas gradually realizes that he may be little more than a pawn in a much larger game.

Like Leamas, readers spend much of the narrative trying to determine which characters can be trusted, what the true objectives of the operation actually are, and who is manipulating whom. Every conversation contains hidden meanings. At the same time, the book was hugely influential in the way it portrayed secret agents not as superheroes, but as morally compromised bureaucrats trapped inside a world of deception.

6

‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ (1955)

“I always thought it would be better to be a fake somebody than a real nobody.” The Talented Mr. Ripley cleverly inverts the traditional mystery template by placing readers inside the mind of the criminal rather than the detective. Tom Ripley is sent to Italy to persuade wealthy playboy Dickie Greenleaf to return home, but admiration gradually gives way to envy, obsession, and ultimately murder. After assuming Dickie’s identity, Tom must continually outwit investigators, acquaintances, and even his own growing paranoia.

On top of being tense and tightly-wound, the book is a marvel of characterization. Ripley is a fascinating antihero: charming, intelligent, adaptable, and morally vacant, weaving a sprawling web of lies that fools those around him while threatening to ensnare him as well. Despite his increasingly horrifying actions, Tom remains strangely sympathetic because readers experience every close call and desperate improvisation from his perspective.

5

‘The Maltese Falcon’ (1930)

“When you’re slapped, you’ll take it and like it.” The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett laid the foundation for the hard-boiled detective novel. After his partner is murdered while shadowing a mysterious woman, private investigator Sam Spade finds himself drawn into a dangerous search for an immensely valuable jeweled statuette. Shifting alliances and constant betrayals keep the reader guessing and turning the pages.

The book stood out from most mysteries of its time thanks to its dialogue and its protagonist. Sharp, economical, and filled with subtle power plays, every conversation advances both the investigation and the psychological battle between the characters. Likewise, unlike the gentleman detectives who dominated earlier mystery fiction, Spade is a scrappy figure operating in a morally ambiguous world where nearly everyone is compromised, including himself. This approach would go on to be hugely influential.

4

‘The Long Goodbye’ (1953)

“I never saw any of them again except the cops. No way has yet been invented to say goodbye to them.” The Long Goodbye is regarded by many to be the best Philip Marlowe book. The story begins when Marlowe befriends the troubled war veteran Terry Lennox, only to become entangled in a murder investigation after helping Lennox flee the country. Marlowe digs deeper into the case, uncovering layers of corruption, wealth, alcoholism, and betrayal stretching across Los Angeles society.

Part of what makes the novel great is the way it delves into character and theme. In particular, Chandler uses the investigation to examine friendship, loyalty, and the isolation of a man who consistently tries to do the right thing in a deeply cynical world. The author wrote this book while his wife was dying from a long illness, which is why it has such a melancholy mood.

3

‘The Big Sleep’ (1939)

“I was neat, clean, shaved and sober, and I didn’t care who knew it.” Chandler strikes again. The Big Sleep was the book that introduced readers to Philip Marlowe and forever changed detective fiction. Hired by the wealthy General Sternwood to deal with a blackmailer targeting one of his daughters, Marlowe quickly discovers that the case is connected to gambling rackets, pornography, multiple murders, and a seemingly endless series of double crosses.

The plotting is incredibly intricate, to the point that Chandler himself reportedly admitted that he did not know the solution to one of the murders. Nevertheless, The Big Sleep is beloved by mystery fans the world over thanks to its atmosphere, razor-sharp dialogue, and richly drawn cast of characters. Marlowe himself anchors the chaos through his intelligence, resilience, and dry humor. Many detective heroes since have borrowed from his design.

2

‘The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ (1892)

“You know my methods.” The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes remains a classic because it almost single-handedly established the template for detective fiction. This short story collection includes twelve adventures featuring Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson, involving everything from mysterious disappearances to stolen jewels and secret societies. Much of the fun comes from Holmes’ extraordinary powers of observation and deduction.

In this regard, Sherlock Holmes really is the most iconic fictional detective of all time. He’s appeared in more than 200 films, for instance, and has been played by more than 70 actors. Plus, the character of Watson was also influential, because he serves as the surrogate for the reader. He’s intelligent enough to appreciate Holmes’ brilliance but ordinary enough that readers share his amazement. In short, this book’s influence on mystery fiction is impossible to overstate.

1

‘And Then There Were None’ (1939)

Image via HarperLuxe

“Ten strangers are invited. One by one they die.” Agatha Christie is often ranked as the greatest mystery writer of all time, and And Then There Were None is perhaps her finest book. In it, ten strangers are invited to an isolated island under various pretenses, only to discover that their mysterious host has accused each of them of getting away with murder. When the guests begin dying one by one according to the verses of a nursery rhyme, panic and suspicion quickly consume the group.

This premise was ingenious for its time, creating the ultimate closed-circle mystery. With no possibility of escape and no outside detective arriving to solve the crime, every surviving guest is both a suspect and a potential victim. This structure has practically spawned a mystery subgenre unto itself. Finally, Christie caps the book off in a brilliant twist, one that’s shocking and yet makes total sense in hindsight.

Kate Middleton usually wears either sneakers or stilettos, especially during royal engagements, but her latest footwear style combines the comfort of flat shoes with the polish of heels. Her chocie presumably cost thousands, but we found the comfy-chic look for only $61 on Amazon!

To celebrate Armed Forces Day, the Princess of Wales brought Prince George to explore jets and soak in some military history. She leaned into a quiet luxury aesthetic, wearing a tweed blazer set with pointed-toe suede loafers. The set was chic, but her shoe style took the look from ‘royal duty’ to ‘royal moment.’

Get the Laggnicty Low-Block Penny Loafers for $61 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.

The Laggnicty Low-Block Penny Loafers channel that same refined yet walkable energy. The pointed-toe shape gives them a sharp, intentional silhouette, and like Middleton’s, the low block heel carries as much authority as a stiletto, minus the ankle regret. It also lengthens your leg line.

Related: Martha Stewart‘s Slip-on Garden Shoes Are an Unexpectedly Chic Staple

Advertisement

‘Garden shoes’ don’t sound inherently stylish, but leave it to Martha Stewart to find an option so fashionable, it works for everything from planter rows to the Riviera. We found the chic slip-in look from Stewart’s staple brand, Skechers — and it’s only $40! Taking to Instagram, Stewart shared a clip of herself in her […]

Equally swoon-worthy are the embellishments. These sleek loafers feature a tassel-style detail across the vamp that adds character and class, plus the shiny silver hardware catches the light beautifully. Whether you’re crossing your legs at brunch or stepping out of the car, you can expect compliments.

These expensive-looking loafers pair well with straight-leg trousers, midi dresses, cropped denim and tailored blazer sets, so be prepared to wear them nonstop. Whatever’s on your calendar, from garden parties to in-office days, these loafers slot in perfectly.

The catch? They dropped only a few months ago and are bound to go fast. Middleton’s off-duty looks usually sell out within hours of a public appearance, so run to snag this royal-approved style!

Get the Laggnicty Low-Block Penny Loafers for $61 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.

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

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –>

Advertisement

Related: Even Jennifer Aniston Wears These Chic and Comfy Flip-Flops on Amazon

The words ‘elegant’ and ‘comfortable’ are rarely used to describe flip-flops, but Jennifer Aniston uncovered rare sandals that deliver on all of the above. Turns out, her sleek, cushiony flip-flops are a bestseller on Amazon and are also loved by Jennifer Garner, Blake Lively and Jennifer Lopez! Like other celebs, Aniston has rocked Tkees flip-flops for […]