Jennifer Aniston‘s latest television project has hit an unexpected roadblock before cameras could even begin rolling.

The actress had been tapped to star in the highly anticipated adaptation of Jennette McCurdy‘s bestselling memoir, “I’m Glad My Mom Died.” Still, the project has now taken an unforeseen turn following a major behind-the-scenes shake-up.

As Jennifer Aniston steps away from the series, questions are mounting about what caused the sudden change and what it means for one of Hollywood’s most talked-about upcoming adaptations.

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Jennifer Aniston is no longer attached to the television adaptation of Jennette McCurdy’s bestselling memoir, “I’m Glad My Mom Died.” The actress had been set to executive produce the series and play a fictionalized version of McCurdy’s mother, but has reportedly stepped away due to scheduling conflicts.

Since the project was announced in 2025, there have been a number of obstacles to be overcome. The series was reportedly shelved due to creative differences with McCurdy, which forced director Jason Reitman out of the picture, leading producers to frantically look for a new director, as scripts were still being developed.

Although Aniston has moved on to other projects for now, the adaptation has not been canceled. Work on the series is still ongoing behind the scenes, with scripts continuing to be written as producers work toward bringing McCurdy’s memoir to the screen, per TMZ.

A Memoir That Became A Television Event

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Jennette McCurdy’s bestselling memoir, “I’m Glad My Mom Died,“ was announced as a 10-episode Apple TV+ dramedy in 2025, with the former Nickelodeon star serving as writer, showrunner, and executive producer.

The series was set to tell a fictionalized version of her deeply personal story, focusing on the complicated relationship between a young actress and her controlling, narcissistic mother.

The Blast previously reported that Jennifer Aniston had been cast to play the fictional version of McCurdy’s mother while also joining the project as an executive producer.

At the time, the casting generated widespread excitement, with many praising the decision to have one of Hollywood’s biggest stars lead the adaptation of the bestselling memoir.

The news was another step for McCurdy, who already had a best-selling book about her life as a child star, and the audience had already been exposed to the ups and downs of her emotional life through her memoirs.

Jennifer Aniston’s Role Was Built Around A Painful Story

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Aniston’s planned role was never meant to portray a real-life person exactly as written in the memoir. Instead, she was cast as a fictional version of the controlling mother whose relationship with her daughter sits at the center of the series, allowing the adaptation to explore difficult themes while taking a more dramatized approach.

The plot unfolds as a young actress struggles to maintain her early star status and a highly complex family life, inspired by McCurdy’s early life in the entertainment industry.

The series is fictional, but it’s a fictionalization of the emotional themes that sparked readers’ interest worldwide with the memoir. Although the adaptation is still in development, the project continues to attract attention because of its powerful subject matter and the success of the memoir that inspired it.

Healing Meant Walking Away From The Past

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McCurdy has never been afraid to speak about the unfortunate circumstances of her childhood that have affected her life long before she left her acting career.

The former Nickelodeon star admitted that her childhood was fraught with anxiety, eating disorders, and a lack of identity that haunted her into her adulthood thanks to her mother’s strictness.

Speaking with PEOPLE, McCurdy shared that her mother controlled nearly every aspect of her life, from pushing her into acting at a young age to managing her appearance and introducing unhealthy habits that later developed into eating disorders.

She said years of therapy, along with the distance created after her mother’s death, finally gave her the freedom to begin healing.

Now, this former actress has crafted a new chapter that is far removed from Hollywood, and does it on her own terms, via writing and storytelling. Her memoirs and the TV show based on them recount not just her suffering, but how she overcame it.

Jennifer Aniston Faces Questions As County Review Continues

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The questions regarding the voter registrations with a West Hollywood business address have yet to be answered. County officials are still examining the records, but say they have no reason to doubt that California state law mandates voters register by where they live — not where they receive their mail.

Officials have explained that election authorities generally process registrations based on the information provided by voters rather than independently verifying every address.

The review remains ongoing, and no wrongdoing has been alleged against Jennifer Aniston or the other celebrities whose names appeared in the records.

The Blast reported that county spokesperson Michael Sanchez confirmed the registrations remain under review as officials continue examining the records.

As the county works to determine whether the registrations complied with state election rules, the controversy has sparked broader conversations about balancing celebrity privacy with legal voting requirements.

When it comes to science fiction, there are two main pillars of the genre: soft sci-fi and hard sci-fi. Hard sci-fi is when scientific accuracy is used to create a plausible situation that hinges on actual chemistry, physics, robotics, whatever. Generally, these stories focus on a single scientific premise and run with it. Soft sci-fi, on the other hand, is full of “techno-babble” and more otherworldly adventures that are in some respects more akin to fantasy. It’s with this distinction in mind that we’ve put this list together.

Of all the soft sci-fi shows out there (and there are more than not), few are so well constructed that you’d be hard-pressed to find a bad episode — yet, it’s those few that we’re highlighting today. Even if not every over-arching plotline hits the mark, each of these shows brilliantly constructs each episode so that some might use the (admittedly overused) word “masterpiece” to describe them. For some soft sci-fi shows that won’t let you down, look no further than these genre triumphs.

‘Battlestar Galactica’ (2004–2009)

Image via SYFY

Often considered one of the greatest sci-fi shows ever made, Battlestar Galactica is one of those must-watch programs if you’re a sci-fi fan. As humanity is nearly wiped out by a race of machines known as Cylons, they take to the stars in search of a mythical homeworld called “Earth,” fighting to survive. With a fabulous ensemble that includes Edwards James Olmos, Mary McDonnell, and Katee Sackhoff, the four-season Syfy hit kept us on our toes from that first miniseries through the epic series finale.

Battlestar Galactica truly fits the designation of a “space opera.” While there are plenty of action-packed space battles and man vs machine combat, the narrative is wrapped up in political chess moves, spiritual undertones, and doppelgänger conspiracies. Every episode unravels something new about either the Cylons or the human survivors, making us question all we thought we knew from the beginning. There’s nothing quite like watching it for the first time.

‘The Prisoner’ (1967–1968)

Image via ITV

The popular British series The Prisoner may seem like an offbeat pick here for those unfamiliar with the program, but the Patrick McGoohan-created series was considered quite the triumph in its day. Following a former British operative (called only “Number Six”) who is abducted and placed in a small coastal town from which he is unable to escape. As the name suggests, this is the television version of your favorite prison break movies, just with a mixture of sci-fi and spy fiction added in for good measure.

For 17 episodes, the titular prisoner struggled to find his way out of his collectivist fate. The result is an extended series that deals in riveting psychological drama mixed with a heavy dose of Orwellian themes. There has never been a show quite like The Prisoner since, although there was a poor attempt of a remake back in the early 2000s that attempted to bring the tale into the 21st century. However, if you want soft sci-fi that’s a bit more exquisite, look no further than the original.

‘Stargate Atlantis’ (2004–2009)

Image via SYFY

While Stargate SG-1 kicked off the franchise on television, Stargate Atlantis truly elevated the Stargate franchise with improved visual effects and compelling new characters who stole the show. As the Atlantis Expedition makes their home in the mythical city, abandoned in the neighboring Pegasus Galaxy, the crew quickly discover new threats like the vampiric Wraith and the self-replicating Asurans. Every episode of this five-season series was a gem.

Stargate Atlantis may have ended a bit prematurely, but these 100 episodes truly deliver with every new and exciting adventure. Whether it’s a multipart episode or a self-contained standalone tale, John Sheppard (Joe Flanigan) and his team have what it takes to not only protect Earth from afar, but to aid those in Pegasus as well. The franchise as a whole is one of sci-fi’s best, but SGA in particular stands out as a true television masterwork.

‘Timeless’ (2016–2018)

Image via NBC

Time travel shows can be tricky, because any era of history — American or otherwise — that one revisits will be marked by our present-day view of the past. Timeless is in some respects the best of both worlds, because the show both acknowledges how far our world has come in the last few hundred years while still in awe of exploring some of the U.S.’s most iconic moments. With every episode of Timeless, the show upped the ante by sending the Lifeboat crew into the most dire of circumstances.

Even if some episodes are better than others (and not every plotline or character arc was always well received), Timeless always delivered high-quality time-warping material. With killer twists and marvelous production value, this sci-fi series is one of the best in the business. With only two seasons under its belt, and a two-hour Christmas-themed finale, Timeless is a hidden-gem sci-fi series that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.

‘Firefly’ (2002–2003)

Image via FOX

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Perhaps if Firefly had gone on beyond its 14 episodes, it wouldn’t make it on this list. However, as the space Western stands now, the Serenity crew have more than proven that every episode has its merits. Indeed, the plucky Joss Whedon series is well-known for its standalone episodes, full of heist jobs and protection gigs that have come to be fondly remembered as classics.

With a strong cast that includes Nathan Fillion, Alan Tudyk, Morena Baccarin, and Gina Torres, Firefly is full of great characters, quippy dialogue, and fascinating worldbuilding that’s unlike most other spaceship-based shows out there. With a follow-up feature film to cap it all off, the short-lived series lives in the limbo of “what might have been” and “what is.” Still, it’s one of the most rewatchable sci-fi shows out there.

‘The Twilight Zone’ (1959–1964)

Admittedly, The Twilight Zone wasn’t just science fiction. The hit Rod Serling classic delved into horror, fantasy, drama, and even the Western in its initial five seasons on CBS, though it was most commonly associated with the sci-fi genre — and for good reason. Some of the best sci-fi episodes of the show, such as “To Serve Man,” “The Invaders,” and “Time At Last,” all scratch that soft sci-fi itch.

Compared to all the revivals and reboots the series would spawn, the original Twilight Zone remains on top as an arguably perfect time capsule of sci-fi entertainment. Whether you prefer the episodes with the most disturbing endings or those not actually written by Serling himself, you can’t go wrong when traveling to another dimension. As far as “soft sci-fi” is concerned, The Twilight Zone is among the most intelligent takes on the genre.

‘Fringe’ (2008–2013)

Image via FOX

Easily the “hardest” soft sci-fi series on this list, Fringe dealt with real pseudo-scientific concepts week in and week out. Initially interested in solving “The Pattern,” the Fringe Division team were put up against everything from shapeshifters and time-travelers to alternate timelines and parallel universes, making it all sound somewhat plausible whenever Walter Bishop (John Noble) would sputter some scientific know-how to explain away whatever they encountered next.

One of our favorite underrated sci-fi shows, Fringe is an addictive five-season binge that only gets better with each rewatch. While some plotlines are difficult to swallow (we see you, Fauxlivia), each episode is so masterfully constructed that we’re willing to endure whatever hardships our heroes are put through. Even the final season, which takes place largely in a post-apocalyptic society run by the time-manipulating Observers, pulls no punches in what it puts its characters (and the viewer) through.

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Fringe

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Release Date

2008 – 2013-00-00

Network

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FOX

Showrunner

Jeff Pinkner

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Directors

Brad Anderson, Fred Toye, Jeannot Szwarc, Charles Beeson, Akiva Goldsman, David Straiton, Dennis Smith, Jeffrey G. Hunt, Paul A. Edwards, Paul Holahan, Thomas Yatsko, J.H. Wyman, Jon Cassar, Miguel Sapochnik, P.J. Pesce, Adam Davidson, Anthony Hemingway, Bill Eagles, Bobby Roth, Bryan Spicer, Christopher Misiano, Chuck Russell, David Moxness, David Solomon

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The nightmare is officially returning.

Earlier this month, Paramount Pictures announced that a brand new A Nightmare on Elm Street film is in development through its new horror label, Paramount Primal. The project is being produced in partnership with the Wes Craven estate and will be based on Craven’s original 1984 screenplay, marking the franchise’s first new theatrical chapter in more than 15 years.

With no director or cast announced, fans have already begun asking the biggest question of all:

Who should become the next Freddy Krueger?

No one will ever replace Robert Englund, whose performance helped make Freddy one of the most recognizable horror icons of all time. Instead, Paramount has an opportunity to introduce a fresh interpretation of the dream demon while honoring the legacy that made the character legendary.

Here are five actors we’d love to see take on the role.

1. Bill Skarsgård

If there’s one actor who has already proven he can reinvent an iconic horror villain, it’s Bill Skarsgård.

His unforgettable performance as Pennywise in IT showcased his ability to transform through subtle facial expressions, unsettling body language, and an eerie sense of unpredictability. Rather than trying to imitate Robert Englund, Skarsgård could create a completely new version of Freddy that feels terrifying for an entirely new generation.

Bill Skarsgård

2. Jack O’Connell

Jack O’Connell may not be the first name fans think of, but that’s exactly why he’d be such an interesting choice.

Whether playing violent criminals or emotionally damaged antiheroes, O’Connell brings an intensity that feels authentic. He could portray Freddy as less of a wisecracking slasher and more of a psychologically disturbing nightmare that haunts victims long before the killing begins.

Jack O’Connell

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3. David Dastmalchian

Few actors have become as respected within the horror community as David Dastmalchian.

His performances in films like Late Night with the Devil have shown that he can balance charm, vulnerability, and unsettling menace all at once. Dastmalchian’s unique voice and naturally eerie screen presence could make for one of the most unsettling interpretations of Freddy Krueger yet.

David Dastmalchian

4. Walton Goggins

Walton Goggins might be the wildcard on this list, but he possesses one quality that’s essential to Freddy Krueger: charisma.

Freddy doesn’t simply kill his victims—he enjoys tormenting them. Goggins has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to mix dark humor, intimidation, and unpredictability into every performance. That combination could make for a Freddy who is equal parts entertaining and terrifying.

Walton Goggins

5. Andy Serkis (Motion Capture)

Andy Serkis has built an incredible career bringing unforgettable characters to life through motion capture. From Gollumin The Lord of the Rings to Caesar in the Planet of the Apes trilogy and Supreme Leader Snoke in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, Serkis has repeatedly shown that digital performances can be just as emotionally powerful as traditional acting.

Rather than relying solely on practical makeup, Paramount could use motion-capture technology to create a Freddy Krueger whose movements feel unnaturally fluid, distorted, and dreamlike. Serkis’ mastery of performance capture could allow Freddy to move in impossible ways that perfectly fit the surreal nature of nightmares, creating one of the most visually unique versions of the character ever seen on screen.

Andy Serkis

Final Thoughts

Paramount’s newly announced A Nightmare on Elm Street film is still in the early stages of development, meaning fans may be waiting a while before an actor is officially cast as Freddy Krueger.

Whoever lands the role will have enormous shoes—or rather, a burned fedora and bladed glove—to fill. Robert Englund’s portrayal defined the character for decades, but every horror icon eventually finds a new generation.

Whether it’s Bill Skarsgård’s haunting presence, Jack O’Connell’s intensity, David Dastmalchian’s psychological edge, Walton Goggins’ sinister charisma, or Andy Serkis’ groundbreaking motion-capture performance, each actor brings something unique that could help Freddy Krueger haunt audiences once again.

Nearly one year after they said “I do,” Britt Stewart and Daniel Durant finally celebrated their nuptials with a romantic honeymoon in the Caribbean — and Us has all the details.

“It was just so amazing,” Durant, 36, told Us exclusively of their trip to Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on Tuesday, July 21. “The island was stunning. We just can’t believe that it’s real.”

Adding that “the whole time was romantic, really,” Stewart, 36, recalled a sunset dinner on the beach as a highlight of the trip, along with a relaxing spa day and one-on-one time as a couple in their “beautiful” room with a private plunge pool. Set against the backdrop of Saint Vincent’s lush rainforests and dramatic coastline, the couple took full advantage of everything Sandals had to offer for the special occasion.

After meeting as dance partners and capturing the world’s hearts on Dancing With the Stars season 31 in 2022, Stewart and Durant’s connection soon turned romantic. They announced their engagement a year later and wed in Santa Margarita, California, on August 23, 2025, surrounded by friends, family and the DWTS cast, of course.

While their busy careers prevented them from jetsetting after their wedding — “I met my season 34 partner two days after,” Stewart recalled — they jumped at the chance to take their long-awaited honeymoon this summer as they gear up to celebrate their first anniversary as husband and wife.

“Long distance is never easy for all partners, but for us, we’re really proud of each other that we can follow [our] dreams,” the CODA actor told Us. “We know that when we pick that time to be together [like] during this honeymoon, it’s this ultimate connection the whole time.”

For evidence of the strength of their connection and commitment to one another, look no further than their communication. When Stewart was initially partnered with Durant, who is deaf, on DWTS, she immediately began learning American Sign Language. As she interpreted for her husband during their joint interview, her growth in ASL and appreciation for deaf culture became clear — and their shorthand and joy in interacting with one another proved that their love is one that goes beyond language.

“My ASL journey has been amazing,” the DWTS pro told Us. “Our meeting anniversary and our wedding anniversary are almost the exact same day. My whole world changed when I met Daniel, and during that season, I was oblivious to how much my world was about to change.”

She continued: “Having this new way of expression and language has really just opened my eyes to a different community that we live next to and with. … It’s been a beautiful journey that I’m still on.”

Durant and his friends in the deaf community certainly appreciate her efforts.

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Related: ‘DWTS‘ Pro Britt Stewart and Daniel Durant‘s Relationship Timeline

Less than one year after Britt Stewart and Daniel Durant competed together on Dancing With the Stars, they sparked a real-life romance. “My Valentine. ♥️ Happy Valentine’s Day,” Durant wrote via Instagram in February 2023 when they debuted their relationship, sharing a selfie with the DWTS pro on a boardwalk. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Subscribe to […]

“I look at her, and this who she is, Britt,” he told Us of his wife. “I love to see her with the deaf community. She has big fans there. When deaf people see her, they automatically go up to her and start to sign. And it’s not often in the deaf community that they see a pro dancer who is successful — a successful woman in this world — being able to sign. It means so much to me and the deaf community, and it makes me proud. But that’s Britt, and that’s why I love her.”

As they reflect back on their first year of marriage, Stewart pointed out that not all that much has shifted since they said “I do” — and she thinks that’s how it should be. “Not much should really change in your relationship,” she told Us. “But what I love is that marriage, for me, is also about intention. It’s our intention that we are doing life together.”

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When it comes to their busy careers — Durant just wrapped up a run in the musical Elephant Shoes, while Stewart was on tour with the DWTS cast before preparing for season 35 this fall — their love is what helps keep them grounded.

“Daniel makes my life, long distance, hard moments, he just makes it easier, calm and OK,” Stewart told Us of her husband. “Yes, our lives are crazy, but when we get that time together, like these last two weeks, it’s amazing.”

Added Durant, “We just feel so full in our hearts and connected and ready to be back into the world and process that together.”

Roommates, a surprising conversation between Deion Sanders and Chrisean Rock has fans talking after the sports icon shared some uplifting words with the reality star. While the two may come from completely different worlds, their exchange showed a different side of their connection as Deion reminded Chrisean of her value and the impact she has made.

RELATED: Karrueche Tran’s Cooking Habit Leaves Deion Sanders Asking If She’s “One Of Those People” (VIDEO)

Chrisean Gets Emotional During Deion Sanders Call

In a clip circulating online this week, Deion Sanders’ voice is heard over a phone call with Chrisean Rock during what appears to be a livestream from her living room. The reality star is wearing a pink tank top, a colorful head wrap, and gold chains while sitting in front of white couches. As the conversation unfolds, Chrisean laughs and smiles while interacting with Deion.

Deion Reminds Chrisean She’s The Prize

During the conversation, Deion encouraged Chrisean to recognize her own worth, telling her that when she looks in the mirror, she needs to realize, “You are the prize.” He also told her that there would be no “storyline” without her and praised the attention and conversations she continues to create. The words appeared to hit home for Chrisean, who became emotional while listening to Deion’s message. He continued reminding her that she keeps people “interested” and that she will always create some type of “chatter,” seemingly encouraging her to embrace the influence and presence she has built.

Fans React After Coach Prime’s Viral Pep Talk

Following the clip making its rounds, folks quickly headed to The Shade Room’s Instagram comment section to share their reactions to Deion Sanders’ words for Chrisean Rock. Some commenters joked that they don’t think Chrisean is going to listen, while others said they could tell she really needed to hear that message. Meanwhile, a few people joked that Deion may have been giving advice he needed to remind himself of, saying he was “really talking to himself” in the moment.

One Instagram user @chrisean_sisters_in_faith said, “Chrisean needed this glad there’s genuine people in her corner 🙏🏽 😍”

This Instagram user @porchvibing claimed, “This was beautiful!! Sometime we need to hear this encouragement!!! Salute 🫡”

And, Instagram user @quaniesha_crankfield added, “That’s what she needs… a strong male father figure in her life…”

Meanwhile, Instagram user @kilolo_1 wrote, “All this words of encouragement, support, and Crying she’s doing Just for him to be talking to himself forreal lol”

While Instagram user @itsb___dummy commented, “She ain’t gon listen Prime”

Finally, Instagram user @unattachedd_ shared, “She grew a lot and I love this for her”

RELATED: Baby Talk? Karrueche Tran & Deion Sanders Fuel Speculation About Having Kids Together (PHOTO)

Big Brother saw the big post-nomination fight drama died down and the veto meeting was pretty undramatic. And now, Egg-Angela Murray is simmering in her shell and turning on allies which is standard behavior.

And Drew Campbell is on her deviled egg list. There was also some steam between Haley Thogmartin and Kamuela “Kamu” Kirk and some sure signs that Rick Devens’ HOH is going to wind up being just as ineffectual as Dee Valladares’.

And today’s tweet of the day is big beef between two BB alums with one of them slamming the other.

Big Brother 28: Drew and Melody Moments, Angela’s Paranoia

Drew & Melody Morris had a cute moment on the feeds today where she was using the princess phone in the living room pretending to talk to her mom. Drew asked to talk to Melody’s mom and then he said Melody does what? All the time?

Then, she snatched back the phone and pretended to listen then told Drew, my mom said she didn’t tell you anything. And he told Melody, wow, I can’t believe you called your mom a liar, I’d never do that. It was fun.

Interesting since we heard Drew and his IRL girlfriend are still together. And Kamu told Drew that he stuck up for him when the subject of Melody came up and said Angela, Chuk Anyanwu, Dee and Haley were saying he’s whipped.

BB 28: Drew Drama

Dee & Angela griped that Drew wants to be in every conversation. Angela thinks he studied Andy Herren. Dee said everyone underestimates him because he’s just 22. They agreed he’s really smart.

Angela griped about hearing Drew laughing in the DR. Angela complained that he talks to people all over the house and then doesn’t tell the alliance anything. Dee agreed and said Drew only says negative things to drive a wedge between people.

Big Brother 28: Jason’s AFP Obsession and Social Dynamics

Jason de Puy was whining about AFP again telling Mallory Aurichio about Devens’ big move in Survivor 50 where he risked his game on a Mr. Beast coin flip. Jason complained that Angela & Devens are getting all the attention.

And Jason said there’s no chance to win AFP with Devens in the house. Jason also denied what Devens said at the nomination ceremony about him telling white lies to the girls.

Jason claims that Devens twisted his words and made him look bad to the house. Mallory gave him sympathy but Jason’s preaching to the choir with her. Mallory hates Devens already so that was a good choice for Jason to gripe to about the vets.

I’m wondering if Jason will have another sobbing spell if Devens wins the time capsule because Jason lost it over Angela getting picked. Angela also griped to Dee about Haley talking about wanting to be AFP.

Big Brother 28: Showmances and Final Two Deals

Speaking of Haley, she and Kamu did a little thing on the live feeds. They were in the room with Angela and Dee and there was a little sort of kiss – not a real kiss but a close to being a kiss with Angela and Dee encouraging Haley and Kamu.

Apparently, Kamu told Haley she needs to dial back on the flirting with Yash Patel. And Haley’s been flirting with Chuk too. But she also told Dee and Angela she flirted with Ashley Trail.

Dee and Angela are rooting for Haley and Kamu. But Haley said Kamu’s too short for her and she doesn’t like that he’s always barefoot. Barrett Pfeiffer & Drew made a final 2 and talked about bringing Angela along to F3 because she’d be easy to beat.

Angela was explaining to Chuk, Dee, Haley and Kamu how the Cookout ran their season. And Angela seemed to be suggesting they each choose a houseguest to shield them.

I think Dee’s HOH was a waste. Ashley was not a big target. And Devens took a swing at Rome, but it looks like it could be a swing and a miss if the votes shift off Rome. Right now, things are still in flux.

Big Brother 28: Live Feeds Confusion and Historical Beef

Also, some of the houseguests don’t grasp how the live feeds work. Jason said he doesn’t talk to the live feeds. I guess other than him screaming at the cameras that America can hate him.

Melody says production doesn’t like them talking to the feeders. I disagree but whatever. Barrett says other people talk to live feeders and get this, brainiac Mallory asks how do the live feeds hear them.

Melody says the big microphones and Barrett corrects her and says it’s from the microphones they wear. Just wow. Also, I don’t know how I didn’t know this but the HOH gets their laundry done for them by production.

As if the private bathroom, snacks and booze weren’t enough. Kamu was up until 4 a.m. doing his laundry – with that many people, keeping clean clothes is a challenge.

Big Brother: Alums Call for Peace

Okay now the Big Brother alums beefing is our tweet of the day. So, the beef is between BB27 winner Ashley Hollis and BB27 3rd place Morgan Pope. So, Ashley was apparently appealing to the fandom to stop trying to pit her and Morgan against each other.

She called out the “Ashley hates Morgan” assumption. Then Ashley said, Morgan played a great game, I played a great game, Vince played a great game. Everyone has their opinion on who is better or worse and that has nothing to do with me.

In this post, Ashley included a photo of her and Morgan together smiling at an event. Ashley says this happened a few weeks ago, but she never posted it. And they look chill. Then, Morgan tweeted a clap back.

She said Ashley, you and I both know why this photo was taken. It represented a cordial moment in a shared space, not a change in our relationship. I think it’s important that context isn’t lost when moments like this are shared publicly.

Big Brother 28: Ashley Hits the Mark

So, then it heated up. Ashley tweeted to the fandom, I’m glad people can finally see why I’m not close with said person. People smile in public but throw darts behind the scenes. Glad this dart was thrown publicly.

I simply try to stop the pitting against us in public and this woman tries to start some drama, really? That was Ashley being mature in that moment. But she also got a slam in. She replied back to Morgan’s post about the happy photo needing context.

And Ashley replied – “how’s Vince though?” and posted a cup of hot tea. Meow-ch! Come back soon for another update and on Wednesday’s episode, we’ll see the big fight, veto comp, veto meeting and Rome going up as renom when Devens uses his power of veto on Lyric Medeiros.

The new millennium brought a shift in attitude across many aspects of culture. One of the prime examples of this can be found in film; horror movies specifically — and, on an even more granular level, in vampire movies. Vampire flicks of the past mostly focused on the savage nature of immortal monsters and their insatiable lust for human blood. Vampy pictures of the 2000s and beyond have explored many other aspects of vampire “life,” such as love, art and music, and even self-betterment.

Ergo, the last 26 years have produced some of the best vampire movies in cinema history. With visually stunning remakes of classics, like the Gothic masterpiece Nosferatu, and pensive takes on coming-of-age(less) tales, such as Let the Right One In, the vampire films of the 21st century are as devilishly diverse as they are eternally enthralling.

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‘Underworld’ (2003)

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

Underworld is the perfect example of a film that critics panned, but fans consumed with reckless abandon and guilty-pleasure glee. This movie feels like it was adapted from a graphic novel (it’s just that stylized), but it was birthed from a completely original idea. It’s not Shakespeare…although the filmmakers do credit Romeo and Juliet as a source of inspiration… It was written by Kevin Grevioux, Len Wiseman, and, believe it or not, Mr. Gemstone himself, Danny McBride, and has the epic feel of a modern classic (heck, it spawned four other films, making it one of the most expansive vampire franchises in history). Directed by Wiseman, this is one of the sleekest action-horror movies ever created, with an icy blue/ethereal emerald color palette, stunning fight choreography, and really cool beastly transformations (even with the use of, in retrospect, very inchoate CGI).

The tale (as old as time) is of two star-crossed lovers. Michael (Scott Speedman, coming in hot off Felicity fame) is a regular shmoe (well, he’s a doctor, but still, just a human), and Selene (British temptress Kate Beckinsale), well, her backstory is a bit more complex. She’s a vampire, and a part of an elite squad of blood-imbibers who hunt Lycans (a sub-sect of werewolves that have been battling vampires since ancient times). Selene has always had an axe to grind with the Lycans because they kind of killed her whole family. So, Selene and Michael inadvertently link up, as she notices that the Lycans have been stalking him for some reason (what a meet-cute). In any event, one of the head Lycans, Lucian (the always cheeky Michael Sheen), ends up taking a chomp out of Michael, which turns him into a lycanthrope himself. Oops. Now the blossoming romance between Michael and Selene becomes even more complicated (plus, y’know, Michael’s life in general). The whole story is super complex, with backstory to spare, but the main takeaway from this film is a highly visual, tantalizingly tasty vampire horror-action hybrid film, only rivaled by Blade.

5

’30 Days of Night’ (2007)

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Most modern vampire films showcase the undead in at least a semi-romantic manner; lost souls cursed to wander the night for eternity. 30 Days of Night is not one of those kinds of films. The vamps here are the very definition of brutal. They are savage, bloodthirsty, and absolutely terrifying. Director David Slade creates a chilling overall atmosphere here, where the protagonists are never, ever really safe.

The concept is a really brilliant one, and almost shocking that no one came up with it before (or at least produced a film of this nature). In a remote part of Alaska, there is about a month-long period where the sun never rises, deemed “polar night.” This is when most inhabitants catch a flight to Orlando. However, some remain, and a virulent pack of vamps descend on the town of Barrow, ready to dine on whatever interior human liquid they can get their fangs on. They are led by a nasty dude named Marlow (Danny Huston), who first delegates a plan to cut off all forms of communication from the outside world. Then, when everyone is basically helpless, they launch their assault. Eben Oleson (Josh Hartnett) and his ex, Stella Oleson (Melissa George), become the de facto leaders of the tiny crew of survivors, and must use their wits to try their best to hide from Marlow & Friends. Overall, the barbarity of the vamps is a thing to behold, as they kill with wanton abandonment. Slade drains the film of color, rendering it in nearly a black-and-white palette. This adds to the hopelessness and scariness of the whole month-long endeavor. Aside from some groovy action-packed sequences and really visceral kills, this movie lands on this list because it has a really cool ending twist as well. This film is not for the squeamish…but then, why are you watching a vampire movie in the first place?

4

‘Byzantium’ (2012)

Image via IFC

Sometimes, the best films carry a very strong message…that sneaks in under a spectacular spectacle of unbridled entertainment. Director Neil Jordan’s Byzantium is the key example of this type of flick. It’s a feminist tale of power and resistance that also happens to be a truly enthralling vampire tale as well. Everything about this movie is engaging, from the highly stylized period flashbacks to the charmingly squalid conditions the lead characters find themselves in during the present action. It’s a story about the unbreakable bond between a mother and her daughter, and how, even when it’s ultimately time to move on and find one’s own way, that bond still exists, and is still as powerful.

In the vampire world, things are quite sexist. There is a Shriners-like group named “The Brethren” that want to eradicate all female vampires (simply for committing the crime of existing). These dudes are so subconsciously self-hating that they want all female vamps dead because they don’t want them to pass on the “curse” of vampirism. Hmm, sounds suspect. These men have caught wind of a mother-daughter duo who have been surviving (in their own, very different ways) on their own terms for centuries. There is Clara (Gemma Arterton), the free-spirit, and her lass, Eleanor (Saoirse Ronan), the sensitive introvert. The pair escape the vile clutches of the Brethren and take refuge in a run-down coastal town, at an old residence called the Byzantium Hotel. Clara, true to her calling, turns the place into a bustling bordello, and the good times (and eventually, heads) roll. After a tumultuous time there, eventually having to fend off their foes, Clara and Eleanor come to a touching, parting agreement. This is a very poignant, poetic film…despite the buckets of blood spilled.

3

‘Let the Right One In’ (2008)

Image via Magnet Releasing

A film’s setting can greatly impact the overall mood, tone, and even story. When Swedish director Tomas Alfredson took on the task of bringing the book of the same name to the silver screen (with the help of John Ajvide Lindqvist’s self-adapted screenplay, of course), he elected to have the film play out during the cold, dark winter of a small Swedish town. This was a decidedly wise choice, as the bitterness and icy extremities of the tale are not only seen onscreen, but felt bone-deep. Let the Right One In is not your typical vampire story, but that is precisely what makes it so good. Running with the concept of immortality, and that of aging mentally in a body that never does so physically, these stellar themes bloom even more when juxtaposed with a child protagonist who is at the cusp of undergoing major (natural) changes.

The story is centered on Oskar (Kåre Hedebrant), a small, quiet boy. Oskar’s home life isn’t so great (he’s visibly neglected), and school life is not so hot either (he’s mercilessly bullied). When a new “family” moves in next door, and Oskar befriends the “young daughter,” Eli (Lina Leandersson), his perspective on life begins to, let’s say, thaw. Eli resides in the ostensible care of Håkan (Per Ragnar), who eventually is revealed to be a familiar of sorts, with ambiguous intentions, as he secures viable blood for Eli to consume — without a lot of fanfare, so as not to alert the authorities that people are being killed. Oh, Eli is a centuries-old vampire, by the way. Yet, the bond that Oskar and Eli develop is somehow pure, devoid of the acridity that often comes with elders admonishing and callously disciplining adolescence. Eli tells Oskar that he needs to take charge of his life and stand up for himself, a lesson he takes to heart (even though Eli is the one who savagely murders all of Oskar’s transgressors…). Overall, this is a very nuanced, well-thought-out film, with rousing performances by the Lilliputian leads. It prompts one to question who really should be let in, and, regardless of their inherently brutal nature, if they actually have your best interests at (non-beating) heart.

2

‘Nosferatu’ (2024)

Image via Focus Features

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How does one reinvent a classic? Do you tastefully pay homage to the films of the past that tackled the same source material? Or, do you attempt to do something entirely unique and fully your own? Well, horror director of the moment Robert Eggers believes the answer is “Yes”…to both queries. With his highly acclaimed masterwork Nosferatu, Eggers did the near-impossible: he took an iconic film and made it even more iconic.

The story (for those who never saw Nosferatu (1922), Dracula, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, or even Dracula: Dead and Loving It) is about a lovely young maiden named Ellen Hutter (Lily-Rose Depp), who is head-over-heels for her new hubby Thomas (Nicholas Hoult). But, wouldn’t you know it? Thomas is called away to the creepy-as-all-hell Carpathian Mountains in Romania, where he has to do some business dealings with an “eccentric” old count, named Orlok (Bill Skarsgård, killin’ it yet again as a scary ghoul…except, no shiny red balloons here). Orlok, who is in dire need of a mani, catches a glimpse of Ellen in a keepsake photo that Thomas has with him. Big mistake, Tom. Orlok then becomes so fully enamored with Ellen that he takes an epically disastrous boat ride to England to try to “charm” her into becoming his bride. Naturally, he does this with vampire voodoo, and not good looks and suave, poetic words (a la Gary Oldman in Francis Ford Coppola’s film). Anyway, Orlok’s Lucifer-like lure is hard to resist for poor Ellen, whose very soul hangs in the balance. At the end of the day (or night…), this movie is a stunning stand-alone film in its own right, where Eggers uses shadows and expressionist lighting as well as in the original version. This may be an old story, but it’s bloody fresh here.

1

‘Sinners’ (2025)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

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Very few true horror movies have ever done well at the Oscars. There really are only a handful of nominations that have been awarded over the decades, with even fewer wins. The rare exception was The Silence of the Lambs, which swept all major categories…although it could be argued that that classic film is really a psychological thriller. Nevertheless, horrors have generally been shut out… That is, until last year. 2025 saw a massive upheaval of this trend with Sinners. It became the most nominated film in Oscars’ history (and even Weapons got some runoff love). There was definitely no denying Ryan Coogler’s stunning period piece from taking home several awards, too. Michael B. Jordan won the trophy for Best Actor in a Leading Role, and Coogler won Best Original Screenplay — and the movie received the most Academy votes in two other categories, too. So, while considering Academy accolades or not, it’s a no-brainer to say that Sinners is truly one of the best horror movies ever made.

If you somehow missed this gem…the story focused on a small Mississippi Delta town, where twin brothers Smoke and Stack (Jordan, as both) return after a lengthy hiatus fighting in WWI and then running game in Chi-town. They open a juke joint, and with the help of townsfolk, eager to make a buck (or enjoy a cold brew, as is the case with Delta Slim, played with hilarious panache by Delroy Lindo). So, the twin gangsters are set to have one profitable, rollicking night. Or so they thought… The central figure of the story actually is Sammie Moore (Miles Caton), the young cousin of Smoke and Stack. He is a preternaturally gifted blues musician, with high aspirations of making it big in the music industry. Anyway, the night is grooving along nicely…and then a three-pack of vampires descend, destined to cause havoc and steal souls. The rest of the film plays out in an epic clash between good and evil…and everything in between. Every aspect of this movie is virtually perfect, from the set design, to costumes, to performances, to the music — which will move even the stiffest of stiffs. It’s a phenomenal film all around, that has achieved unbelievable success — and just happens to also be a vampire movie.

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Sinners

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Release Date

April 18, 2025

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Runtime

138 minutes

Director

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Ryan Coogler

Writers

Ryan Coogler

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The Big Brother 28 cast is continuing to bring the heat this season.

In Us’ exclusive first look at the season 28’s annual backyard group photo shoot, the cast gathered around the pool in their swimwear — and left little to the imagination.

Big Brother 26 alum Angela Murray channeled former costar Makensy Manbeck when opting for a blue swim dress. (Makensy, who was the season 26 runner up, famously rocked a blue workout set that fans deemed was her lucky outfit as she won multiple competitions in it.)

Survivor alums Dee Valladares and Rick Devens enjoyed a change of pace while rocking their finest bathing suits in the home’s Los Angeles backyard compared to the lush Fijian jungle. The Survivor 45 winner, 29, stunned in a pink bikini. Current Head of Household Devens, 42, opted for turquoise board shorts. While many online fans wished for Devens to go shirtless, the father of two — unfortunately — completed his look with a red T-shirt.

Related: Big Brother 26’s Angela Murray Officially Joins Season 28 Cast

Another summer of twists, blindsides and backdoors is upon us — and we now know the 14 new players set to compete on Big Brother 28. Yes, that’s 14 new players — and any Big Brother fan will tell you, the modern game is played with at least 16. Fans have speculated for weeks that […]

Rome Seymour and Jason De Puy — a.k.a Salina EsTitties from RuPaul’s Drag Race — were front and center as they dipped their toes in the water. Rome, 28, donned green swim trucks sans shirt. The pickleball instructor struck a power pose with his arms crossed. Meanwhile, the drag queen, 35, laid back in blue shorts and an opened pink button up.

Chuk Anyanwu opted to go shirtless as well as he showed off his muscles while sitting on a lounge chair. Mallory Aurichio looked pretty in pink while lounging next to pal Melody Morris who wore a black bikini top paired with matching pants.

LaTrice “Lala” Verrett also stunned in a black bikini paired with a statement coverup. Taylor Brown kept it cool in an orange bikini and let her blonde curls flow.

Kamu Kirk, Barrett Pfeiffer, Drew Campbell and Yash Patel went shirtless as they stood in the back of the yard. Lyric Medeiros shined bright in a neon orange bikini and heels while Haley Thogmartin rocked a brown two piece bathing with a halter top and high-waisted bottoms.

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Related: ‘Big Brother 27’ Cast Soaks Up the Sun in Annual Swimsuit Photo Shoot

The Big Brother 27 cast took to the backyard for the legendary swimsuit photoshoot. All 17 houseguests soaked up the sun as they posed in their swimwear in Us Weekly’s exclusive first look. The women dazzled in a variety of beach-ready styles, from bikinis to one-pieces. The guys rocked board shorts, with some opting to […]

Ashley Trail, the first to depart from the house on Thursday, July 16, made an appearance in the photoshoot. The bartender, who was unanimously evicted in a historic 14-0 vote, dazzled in an orange bikini.

The group took an additional photo where they all wore sunglasses while outside enjoying the Southern California sunshine.

Big Brother airs on CBS Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at 8 p.m. ET.

Marvel’s cinematic universe has been somewhat of a mixed bag recently – not you, Spider-Man – but the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday may prove to be a return to form. The post-Endgame extended universe has had some growing pains and a decided lack of enthusiasm. After plans for Kang were reduced to dust, the imminent Avengers movie offered a solution.

Featured in the new trailer for Avengers: Doomsday, Doctor Doom has returned as the Big Bad, now played – at least for now – by Robert Downey Jr. This was a decision that was met with some initial hesitation, but the new footage shows that this may be just the movie to turn the tide. Ensemble teams such as the X-Men, The Fantastic Four, and the New Avengers unite under Thor (Chris Hemsworth) to beat back this new foe. These new factions have been introduced in feature films, but there is one integral element included that fans would have only seen on the MCU television side of the spectrum.

‘Loki’ Is Required Viewing Ahead of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’

Last time MCU fans saw the God of Mischief, he had died heroically attempting to stop Thanos in Infinity War. Loki’s (Tom Hiddleston) travels with Thor in Ragnarök had smoothed his sharp edges, and he valiantly tried to pull off one final trick to beat the Mad Titan. Unlike every time he had appeared to have died before, this one seemed to have stuck. Loki’s death is tragic, but Endgame ensured that the Asgardian had a future.

This is all depicted in his self-titled Disney+ series, Loki. One of the early additions to the MCU’s television world, this show may have passed some by. Even though Loki is unequivocally one of the best characters in the Marvel Universe, the television shows weren’t always considered mandatory viewing. For those who haven’t seen it, that is a tragic mistake.

Loki wasn’t just an excuse to get Tom Hiddleston to remind viewers of his nuanced portrayal – though he does that flawlessly. The Disney+ series charts Loki’s glorious purpose, but this time it’s real. Following the events of Endgame, the 2012 version of Loki finds the Tesseract during the Battle of New York and escapes captivity, if only for a few seconds. He is then found by the Time Variance Authority and arrested for his crimes against the Sacred Timeline.

Throughout the show, Loki is forced to relive his worst moments, and this ultimately leads him to be the best version of himself. He forms real connections with TVA workers like Mobius (Owen Wilson) and confronts his true destiny. At the end of the series, he fully realizes his role is not just a god but an overseer of all time. This separates him from all the people that he loved, but he finds his true purpose, and it is glorious.

Loki has become selfless at the end of Season 2. The worst part is that Thor never knows the sacrifices he made to become god of time. Hiddleston is officially reprising his role as Loki for the first time since the conclusion of the show in Avengers: Doomsday, but those who missed out on the show may be out of the time loop. Not only that, they miss out on one of the most highly anticipated reunions in the MCU.

‘Loki’ Will Make Thor and Loki’s Reunion Even Better

Those who never watched Loki may have the same experience that Thor will in Avengers: Doomsday. Thor still believes his brother to be dead and will be astounded by what he has gone through. This reunion will be gratifying, but will be even more emotional after viewing the television series that follows Loki’s experiences.

Before his impressive character arc, Loki only really cared about Thor. He carries this through his experiences in the television series, which is made even more cruel considering he can never see his brother again. Loki, of course, keeps this beneath the surface as he traverses the Sacred Timeline and undergoes the best character development in the MCU.

Loki has to accept that he can never return to his timeline and does what he can to preserve life as it should be. His sacrifice to become the god of time is that much more painful, knowing that he did this to protect everyone he cares about, though he can never see them again. If Thor and Loki see each other again, it will be tantamount to the time god coming back to life right in front of his brother’s eyes.

Without viewing this show, this coming together may be at best confusing and at worst seem out of nowhere. Only fans of the Disney+ show will understand how earned Loki’s character arc is and be fully immersed in the connection between two brothers that has been a long time coming.

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Release Date

2021 – 2022

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Disney+

Writers

Bisha K. Ali, Michael Waldron

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By Nikola Pajtic
| Published 21 seconds ago

Based on the bestselling novel by Delia Owens, 2022’s Where the Crawdads Sing gave me the same emotional sensations as the book. Directed by Olivia Newman, the film is a visual feast and a remarkable coming-of-age story embroiled in a murder mystery. It follows Kya, a young woman, as she grows up alone in the unforgiving North Carolina marsh.

Where The Crawdads Sings

While in most books, childhoods are as idyllic as they can get, that is not the case here. Where the Crawdads Sing portrays Kya’s childhood as harsh, to say the least. An abusive alcoholic father breaks the family, and Kya is left to take care of herself alone at just seven years old.

Daisy Edgar Jones, of War of the Worlds fame, beautifully portrays a girl who tries to fend for herself but becomes ostracized by the townsfolk of the small North Carolina town Barkley Cove. She is given the nickname ‘Marsh Girl’. Through the years, she has survived by selling mussels at a store owned by people who become Kya’s friends.

A Coming-Of-Age Murder Mystery

Where the Crawdads Sing sees Kya through several stages of her life, jumping from one timeline to another. On this coming-of-age adventure, Kya finds love and gets her heart torn apart by lies and betrayal. Growing up, she becomes close to a kind neighbor, Tate Walker, played by Taylor John Smith, who teaches her to read and write, and their romance blossoms within the limits of the marsh.

Unfortunately, their happiness is short-lived as Tate leaves for college and breaks the promise of returning to her. Fast forward, and Kya has found love again. This time, she found solace with Chase Andrews (Harris Dickinson). Dickinson brings a believable character from the book to the screen with all its charm and darkness underneath. She soon discovers his dark side, which sets in motion a string of events that turn a coming-of-age story into a murder mystery thriller, with Kya sent to jail.

Closely Follows The Novel

As a film, Where the Crawdads Sing is afraid to stand on its own and follows the book to the tiniest details, with some timeline changes that don’t even affect the story. Olivia Newman played it safe here by following the book, which was good to see. 

I didn’t expect new twists and turns, as the film doesn’t need them. It required great acting and beautiful scenery. The score, the scenes, and the main story of Where the Crawdads Sing won’t be dull to you for a single moment, despite the film being over two hours long. When the credits rolled, I wondered how fast the time flew by. 

Cheering For Kya

I was glued to the screen from the start until the end cheering for Kya, feeling what she felt throughout this magnificent journey. Her independence and innocence hooked me and kept me on her side, a stark contrast to how the people treated her. Yet, I knew there was something more about her than meets the eye, keeping the suspense element alive throughout the entire film.

Reese Witherspoon’s production company, Hello Sunshine, was pivotal in bringing Delia Owens’ bestselling novel Where the Crawdads Sing to the big screen.

Filmed in Louisiana in early 2021, the movie adaptation arrived in theaters in July 2022. Critical reception was mixed as the film holds just 34 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, with some praising the film’s stunning visuals and lead performance by Daisy Edgar-Jones, while others found the story uneven. Despite this, the film became a box office success, grossing over $144 million worldwide against a $24 million budget, and currently boasts a 96 percent approval rating across over 5,000 reviews on the Popcornmeter.

Taylor Swift Contributed An Original Song

The film score also helped set the mood, with Taylor Swift’s original song “Carolina” stealing the show. Swift wanted to create something for the film, having read the book a while back and still taking hold of her. Taylor said she wrote the song before the filming even started, and this effort earned her Golden Globe nomination for Best Original Song. 

A few plotholes might scare you off, but I recommend you give When the Crawdads Sing a chance. First, because the marsh breathes and exists independently as a character. Then, because of the Oscar-worthy acting of Daisy and the twist that will leave you breathless. This suspense mystery is a must-watch for those who read the book and newcomers alike.

As of this writing, Where the Crawdads Sing is streaming on Hulu.

WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING SCORE