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The Greatest Character Arc in Sci-Fi Comes Down to Just 6 Words

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Leonardo DiCaprio as Jack Dawson in the final scene of Titanic (1997)

There are plenty of reasons The Iron Giant has endured as one of the most beloved animated movies ever made. Brad Bird‘s 1999 movie is funny, beautiful, devastating, and remarkably sincere about ideas that most family movies would struggle to explain without talking down to their audience. It asks what makes us who we are, whether we are bound by the purpose we were created to serve, and whether something built to destroy can decide to become something else entirely.

The Iron Giant (Vin Diesel) spends almost the entire movie trying to answer those questions without even realizing it. He arrives on Earth with no memory of where he came from or why he was sent here, leaving Hogarth Hughes (Eli Marienthal) to teach him everything from language to morality. By the end, the Giant understands exactly what he was made to be, but more importantly, he understands that he doesn’t have to be it. His entire journey can be found in six words spoken at opposite ends of that realization: “I am not a gun.” “Superman.” Five words reject the identity he was given. One word tells us the identity he chooses for himself.

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“I Am Not a Gun” Is the Most Important Choice the Iron Giant Makes

For much of The Iron Giant, the Giant is essentially a child. He mimics Hogarth, learns about the world through him, and doesn’t initially understand concepts as fundamental as death. That innocence makes the discovery of what he actually is so frightening. The Giant isn’t simply capable of violence. Violence has been built into him, and we see glimpses of that programming throughout the movie. When Hogarth’s toy gun accidentally fires, the Giant instinctively reacts by activating a weapon of his own. Later, when Kent Mansley (Christopher McDonald) and the military attack him, that defensive programming takes over completely. The gentle creature Hogarth befriended disappears beneath an arsenal capable of annihilating everything around him. That is what makes “I am not a gun” so much more important than a declaration that the Giant doesn’t want to hurt anyone. Strictly speaking, he is a gun. He was created as a weapon, his body is filled with weapons, and when threatened, he has been programmed to use them.

But Hogarth has already taught him the distinction that matters. After the Giant witnesses a deer die, Hogarth tries to explain something he barely understands himself: guns kill, but death isn’t necessarily the end because people have souls. The Giant may be made of metal, but Hogarth believes he has one too. It’s a wonderfully simple way for the movie to introduce its biggest idea: there is something inside the Giant that cannot be explained by what his body was designed to do. Eventually, Hogarth gives that idea words:

“You are who you choose to be.”

“I am not a gun” is the first time the Giant truly acts on that lesson. He isn’t denying what he was built to do, he’s deciding that it doesn’t get to define him. It’s also important that the movie never gives him an easy way out. There isn’t a late reveal that the Giant was actually designed to protect people or that his destructive programming was a misunderstanding. His weapons don’t disappear once he discovers friendship. The capacity for destruction remains part of him until the very end, which makes his decision not to use it matter. But “I am not a gun” only takes his character arc halfway.

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“Superman” Completes One of Animation’s Greatest Character Arcs

A close-up of The Giant (voiced by Vin Diesel) leaning forward in The Iron Giant
A close-up of The Giant (voiced by Vin Diesel) leaning forward in The Iron Giant
Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Hogarth gives the Giant the answer much earlier when he introduces him to comic books. The Giant is initially fascinated by a robot he thinks looks like him, only for Hogarth to explain that the character is a villain. Then he shows him Superman. The comparison is perfect because Superman is also defined by the relationship between extraordinary power and personal choice. He could hurt people, but he chooses to save them. The Giant loves that idea before he fully understands it. By the climax, he does. Kent’s paranoia has caused the USS Nautilus to launch a nuclear missile at the Giant, despite the fact that he is standing in the middle of Rockwell. The missile cannot be recalled. If it reaches its target, everyone the Giant has come to care about will die. For once, nobody has to tell him what to do. He tells Hogarth to stay behind and flies toward the missile alone. As he climbs higher, Hogarth’s words return to him: “You are who you choose to be.” Then the Giant smiles, and declares:

“Superman.”

That single word completes everything that began with, “I am not a gun.” Superman has become an idea to him: someone powerful enough to destroy who chooses to protect instead. Faced with a weapon capable of destroying an entire town, the Giant doesn’t respond by becoming the bigger weapon. He uses all that incredible power to save everyone else. More importantly, he does it knowing what death means now. Earlier in the movie, the Giant couldn’t understand why the deer wouldn’t wake up. By the finale, he understands enough to know that flying into the missile may mean he will never come back, a sacrifice that is a conscious choice made by someone who has learned what a life is worth. That’s why The Iron Giant doesn’t need a long speech to complete his transformation. Bird has already spent the entire movie teaching us what that final word means to him. “I am not a gun” is the Giant deciding that his creator doesn’t get to determine who he is. “Superman” is the Giant deciding who does: himself. Twenty-seven years later, those six words still contain one of the greatest character arcs animation has ever given us.


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Release Date

August 6, 1999

Runtime
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86 minutes

Director

Brad Bird

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Writers

Tim McCanlies

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Bachelor’s Peter Weber Shares Photos With New Girlfriend

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Peter Weber Shares Photos With New Girlfriend

Former Bachelor Peter Weber has a new love in his life.

The pilot gave fans a glimpse of his new girlfriend in a sweet photo dump shared via Instagram on Thursday, August 13. “Summer ‘26⁩⁩,” he wrote in the caption.

In one photo, Peter, 35, gazed lovingly at his new flame during a sunset moment. Another pic showed the couple posing with Peter’s family — including mom Barb and brother Jack. The final snap in the slideshow featured Peter’s girlfriend standing outside while holding a glow stick.

Peter did not tag his mystery woman or reveal her name, but friends celebrated the social media milestone in the comments section.

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“The hard launch finally 👏,” fellow Bachelor Nation alum Luke Stone wrote, while Clay Harbor added three clapping emojis.

Peter’s family also showed their support. “Happiness is…❤️❤️,” his mom commented, with his brother writing, “Love this ❤️.”

Fans were introduced to the Weber family when Peter appeared on Hannah Brown‘s season 15 of The Bachelorette in 2019. He finished the season in third place before being named the lead for season 24 of The Bachelor.

Peter Weber Shares Photos With New Girlfriend

Peter Weber and girlfriend
Courtesy Peter Weber/Instagram

During his season finale, which aired in 2020, Peter proposed to Hannah Ann Sluss after runner-up Madi Prewett sent herself home. The dramatic After the Final Rose special revealed that Peter and Hannah Ann had already ended their engagement. Peter admitted he still had feelings for Madi. The pair briefly reconnected, but they ultimately went their separate ways.

Peter went on to date Kelley Flanagan, who finished his season in fifth place. The duo were together on and off from 2020 to 2023.

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The former reality star’s love life recently made headlines once again when Julie LaPlaca — who worked behind the scenes of the Bachelor franchise for seven years — shed new light on their alleged relationship in her book, The Love Producer. Julie recalled forming a close friendship with Peter during his Bachelor journey, with their connection taking a turn when they hooked up after filming wrapped.

Julie LaPlaca Details Peter Weber Relationship in New Book


Related: Former ‘Bachelor’ Producer’s Book Details ‘Fantasy Suite’ With Peter Weber

Years after their connection raised eyebrows among Bachelor Nation fans, former producer Julie LaPlaca is telling all about her relationship with Peter Weber. “Peter had a genuine, pure heart that struck me,” Julie, 41, writes in her new book, The Love Producer, out Tuesday, July 7. “I sense that he really did want to find […]

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In an exclusive interview with Us, Julie opened up about Peter’s response to the book, saying he “reacted from a place of fear.”

“I offered to let him read a copy, and instead he panicked … I hope when he reads it, he sees that it’s coming from the heart,” she said.

Peter, meanwhile, addressed Julie’s claims in an Instagram comment. “I’ve moved on from this period of my life and I’m ultimately responsible for my choices,” he wrote, in part. “What I’ll say is this: I asked Julie on multiple occasions to please keep private, intimate details, private. This wasn’t about a tv show anymore.”

He elaborated on his feelings in a separate statement to TMZ as the book hit shelves on July 7.

“I just find it ironic that Julie is coming out with a book all about finding your truth and searching for love, when the entire time I was trying to do just that on my season of The Bachelor, with her as my main confidant and guide throughout the process, her actions said otherwise,” he alleged.

Peter continued, “I am by no means a victim in all of this. I’m a grown man who is responsible for all of my actions, and I know that. That being said, going through an experience like I did involved a certain level of trust being given to people I really didn’t know that much about at the time.”

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General Hospital: Curtis Trapped Beside SIDWELL as Prison Chaos Erupts

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General Hospital: Curtis Ashford (Donnell Turner) - Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota)

General Hospital puts Curtis Ashford (Donnell Turner) facing 10 years in Pentonville with the possibility of parole in two. And of course, he is stunned.

He was so cocky and so sure that Isaiah Gannon (Sawandi Wilson) left him and Jordan Ashford (Tanisha Harper) for dead that he assaulted the man and then thought he would get away with it.

Well, karma is coming for Curtis in a big way because he’s packing off to prison. And guess what? Psycho Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota) is going to be his cellmate.

General Hospital: Curtis’ Shocking Prison Sentence

So, there was a moment when it looked like Isaiah might not get justice for that assault. Curtis refused the plea deal of two years with eight months till parole. He was so sure, so smug, thought he was going to be acquitted because he had Martin Gray (Michael E. Knight) accuse Isaiah of leaving them for dead.

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Curtis thought for sure the jury would believe him with no proof and that that would somehow justify his assault on Isaiah. Instead, the jury found Curtis guilty, and then the judge slapped Jordan’s boyfriend with a 10-year prison sentence with a chance of parole in a couple of years. But Martin talked them into giving Curtis 48 hours so that he can get things in order before heading to Pentonville to start doing time.

And Jordan assured Curtis that everybody’s going to visit, including her and Trina Robinson (Tabyana Ali) and Desmond. And Jordan says she’ll wait for him so they can be together again. And of course, Curtis is crushed because he’s going to miss out on a lot of time with Desmond. And Curtis realizes that Isaiah will indeed be playing daddy to his son while Curtis is locked up in Pentonville. And of course, Curtis still isn’t taking accountability and neither is Jordan.

GH Twist: Curtis Ashford Prison Nightmare with Sidwell

Needless to say, things are not looking good for Curtis. So, he’s heading to Pentonville where Sidwell is, and this is the start of a prison nightmare. That villain just started serving a 31-year sentence with a chance of parole in 26 years. So basically at his age, that’s almost assuredly life in prison.

Molly Lansing-Davis (Kristen Vaganos) recently told Cody Bell (Josh Kelly) she wasn’t prosecuting Sidwell’s case because he took a plea deal and that many years behind bars when you’re that age is hand him out to a death sentence. So, all bets are off on Sidwell’s behavior. He’s got nothing to lose. So, Curtis may be on the receiving end when Sidwell acts out.

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And recently Carlo Rota was at a fan event with his wife Nazneen Contractor who plays ADA Justine Turner. And Carlo said that Sidwell is not done. He has more scenes coming up at Pentonville where his storyline’s going to progress. And Carlo said another GH character will be his cellmate. So, of course, that’s Curtis. And he’ll be horrified to find out Sidwell is his cellie. And Jordan may be even more horrified than Curtis because she knows how lethal Sidwell is. Plus, he’s got that grudge against Jordan.

General Hospital: Curtis’ Life at Risk

So, let’s talk about where he goes from here. First of all, Curtis may be in literal danger because Sidwell is ticked that Jordan wouldn’t help him out when he was behind bars. Remember, before he took the plea deal, Sidwell met with Jordan and asked her to help him out with some business and financial transactions, moving stuff around.

She told Sidwell no. And Jordan also admitted she’d been plotting against him all along. So she thought it was okay to talk this way to Sidwell because he couldn’t touch her. He still can’t. But with Curtis in his cell, Sidwell can do something to him.

He’s mad that Jordan spilled about the house, which was how he wound up getting caught in the end. So, Sidwell might have whatever prison minions he’s paying to keep him safe, turn around and attack Curtis. Jordan may show up to visit and be stunned to see Curtis all busted up. And Jordan realizes it’s Sidwell punishing Curtis for her dangerous games.

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Although, as we know, Curtis is the one who got himself put in prison. All because he jumped to conclusions, assaulted Isaiah, showed zero remorse, continued to go after Portia Robinson’s (Brook Kerr) partner, and then refused a really sweet plea deal. So, Curtis is likely going to have some serious regrets soon.

BLQ Finally Steps Up on GH?

The next thing that could happen once Brook Lynn Quartermaine (Amanda Setton) finds out Curtis got 10 to serve too, she’s going to realize a lot of this is on her. Brook Lynn’s going to feel horrible. Only a really strong appeal will get Curtis out. And Martin’s not optimistic. So, Brook Lynn may try and help out. I could see her going to Isaiah and explaining herself, confessing.

You know, Brook Lynn may tell Isaiah she feels sick over what happened to him and that it’s her fault that Curtis attacked him. And Brook Lynn may ask if Isaiah might consider leniency as the victim if she took her info to the PCPD to help Curtis’ appeal. Would Isaiah back down?

I think he might. If Curtis would back down about trying to block him from Desmond and Portia’s lives, but we all know how stubborn Curtis is. But Isaiah also knows this is hurting Trina, which means it’s hurting Portia. So, if Brook Lynn finally did the right thing, it might actually help.

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General Hospital: Curtis Ashford (Donnell Turner) - Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota)General Hospital: Curtis Ashford (Donnell Turner) - Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota)
General Hospital: Curtis Ashford – Jenz Sidwell 

General Hospital: Sidwell on the Loose

Another thing that might happen is Sidwell might escape. We’ve heard chatter about this from our leaker. And if that manifests, he might take Curtis with him to ruin his life in Jordans. Because if Curtis is part of an escape, he won’t get parole in two years. He would probably serve all 10, maybe more. So, I could absolutely see Sidwell having his minions drag Curtis along for an escape.

And as Sidwell’s cellmate, the warden would assume they were conspiring and he wouldn’t believe Curtis if he denied it. That would be another good way to punish Jordan because she helped take Sidwell’s freedom. Another thing we might see is Drew Cain (Cameron Mathison) might come through and do Curtis a solid. Maybe Drew knows the governor and can ask him for a pardon. Drew’s claim that he wants to be friends with Curtis again. And if you recall, Sonny got a governor pardon years ago.

He escaped Pentonville and saved the haunted star from a bomb. So, that’s a total possibility for Curtis. So, Drew might do that because he and Curtis seem to be acting like things are bygones. Especially if Curtis agreed to use Aurora to target Sonny and help Drew run the mobster out of town like he wants. Or should I say ex-mobster, about to be ex-mobster. I absolutely think Curtis would help Drew with that.

General Hospital: Curtis Breaks Out

And last but not least, Curtis might find another way to avoid his full sentence. As far as we’ve heard, Donnell Turner sticking around. So, that means he’ll be out of Pentonville one way or another. So, Curtis may thwart Sidwell’s escape attempt and earn a faster parole. Or Brook Lynn could try and clean up the mess that Jordan made by crashing them.

And that Brook Lynn exacerbated with her lies. And of course Curtis made worse with his attitude. But Brook Lynn might go to Tracy Quartermaine (Jane Elliot) and ask her to go to the governor asking for a pardon for him.

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Because Curtis is so close to Michael Corinthos (Rory Gibson). It could be justified that way. Especially if Brook Lynn tells Tracy, “Find a way to get a governor’s pardon or I’m going to confess, even if it burns down my marriage.”

I expect Curtis to come out of prison, though worse for wear. Remember, Drew came out of Pentonville so much worse and then went downhill from there and morphed into the total jerk we’ve got now. And if Curtis doesn’t learn his lesson, he may come out, try to block Isaiah from being around Desmond.

If so, I’m still hoping there’s another DNA test for some reason, and we find out Curtis isn’t the dad, and Stella Henry (Vernee Watson) rigged the paternity test because Curtis didn’t get the chance to raise Trina.

It would be karmic if Curtis gets his freedom but loses the baby and then Portia, Isaiah, and Des get there happily ever after. And Curtis gets Jordan and a lot of anger and frustration. We’ll see it play how it plays out, but very soon things are going to go from bad to much worse for Curtis.

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Katie Holmes And BF Take Romance To Next Level

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Katie Holmes

Katie Holmes is happily embracing a romantic new season. 

The 47-year-old actress has officially taken the next step in her relationship with artist Jason Bard Yarmosky, making their romance social media official following a picturesque summer getaway.

The two reportedly met in June and, since then, have been spotted together at multiple public gatherings.

Katie Holmes
Nancy Rivera/MEGA

Taking to his Instagram Story on Thursday, Yarmosky shared an adorable picture of Holmes, giving followers an intimate look into their thriving relationship. 

In the photo, the actress was captured wearing an ivory two-piece ensemble accessorized with metallic pointed-toe heels. She stood cross-legged while beaming at the camera. 

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Yarmosky didn’t attach a caption to the image, but instead tagged the actress.

The two also indulged in a getaway that included art-filled excursions and scenic coastal activities. Yarmosky shared snapshots of them viewing artwork by John Chamberlain alongside footage from a sunset boat ride, as reported by U.S. Weekly.  

Holmes further confirmed their milestone by reposting the photo directly to her Instagram grid, adding a simple smiley face emoji to mark the moment.

The couple’s social media debut comes after weeks of quiet romance since they stepped out together in July. At the time, they sparked relationship rumors when they arrived hand-in-hand for a Hamptons screening of the film “The Invite.”

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Katie Holmes & Her Boyfriend Jason Bard Yarmosky Have ‘Similar’ Tastes

Katie Holmes' BF Jason Bard Yarmosky shares summer picture
Instagram Stories | Jason Bard Yarmosky

As their summer romance continues to blossom, Holmes and Yarmosky have made it clear that they are on the same page.

In late July, the couple was seen together at a Ferragamo pop-up event hosted by actress Gabrielle Union in Bridgehampton, New York. For the event, she donned a sheer button-down top paired with a fringe skirt. 

Meanwhile, Yarmosky complemented her effortlessly in a dark navy sweater, matching flared trousers, and black dress shoes.

Addressing their complementary fashion choices, Holmes sweetly said, “I think we just have similar taste,” as reported by The Blast.

Furthermore, eyewitnesses noted that the duo appeared thoroughly smitten throughout the night, sharing whispers and giggles as they enjoyed the evening side-by-side.

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Katie Holmes & Jason Bard Yarmosky Are Taking Things Slow

While Holmes and Yarmosky have been spotted together in public on multiple occasions, insiders emphasize that the romance remains in its early stages.

To keep their connection comfortable and pressure-free, the “Dawson’s Creek” alum and her partner are intentionally maintaining boundary lines when it comes to their home lives. According to The Blast, sources noted that Holmes’ 18-year-old daughter, Suri, has yet to be introduced to Yarmosky.

“They’re intentionally taking it slow. They haven’t been introduced to others’ families or done any of that yet,” an insider shared regarding their current status.

The couple is reportedly content focusing on one-on-one time without rushing toward major milestones or long-term commitments. 

“There haven’t been any major steps in the relationship yet; they’re still in the dating phase for now,” the source also shared.

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Katie Holmes’ Daughter Adopted A New Identity To Completely Cut Ties With Her Father

Katie Holmes and Suri Cruise are all smiles while shopping in NYC
LRNYC / MEGA

Even as Suri has yet to officially meet her mother’s new partner, the estrangement between her and her father, Tom Cruise, seems to have gotten worse lately. 

According to The Blast, Suri has officially dropped Cruise as her surname and has chosen to embrace her mother Katie Holmes’ middle name and legally change her name to Suri Noelle.

This change appears to be a result of a deeply strained relationship that dates back to the high-profile divorce of Tom and Holmes. Following their split, father and daughter grew increasingly distant.

The official confirmation of her name change surfaced through public records in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, where Suri currently attends Carnegie Mellon University. When registering to vote as a freshman, she officially signed up under the moniker Suri Noelle.

Katie Holmes Respects Suri’s Decision To Drop Tom Cruise’s Name 

Suri Cruise
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Following news of the legal name change, attention naturally turned to how Holmes processed her daughter’s decisive move. Interestingly, insiders close to the family revealed that the “Batman Begins” actress was entirely unfazed by the update.

“Katie wasn’t surprised by Suri’s decision to legally drop ‘Cruise’ from her last name because that’s just who Suri is, a source revealed, as reported by The Blast.

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The informant shared that the milestone was far from an abrupt decision, but rather a gradual evolution reflecting Suri’s self-reliance.

“She’s always been incredibly independent and confident in making her own choices,” the source added. 

The insider further emphasized that Holmes respected her daughter’s personal journey every step of the way without influencing or rushing her timing.

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Nicole Kidman Talks Being Warned Against Marrying Tom Cruise

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2026 MET Gala Costume Ball-Outside Arrivals

Nicole Kidman has made some rare comments about her failed marriage to fellow Hollywood Star Tom Cruise, revealing that she was warned against getting hitched to the actor.

In a new interview, she shared candid remarks about being defiant and ignoring the naysayers, as she was “in love” with him at the time and chose only to listen to her heart.

The comments about Tom Cruise come months after Nicole Kidman finalized her divorce from her second husband, Keith Urban, and amid rumors that she’s in a relationship with a businessman.

2026 MET Gala Costume Ball-Outside Arrivals
RCF / MEGA

Nicole Kidman has revealed she was warned that marrying her first husband Tom Cruise could damage her career, and at 23, she simply didn’t care.

The Oscar-winning actress, now 59, reflected on her 1990 nuptials in a candid interview with British Vogue, admitting she was cautioned that tying herself to Hollywood’s biggest star might eclipse her own rising fame.

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“I remember people saying to me, ‘OK, well this is really going to affect your career.’ I’m like, ‘I don’t care. I’m in love. I want to be married.’” Kidman told the publication. “And then I was his ‘wife,’ and they were like: ‘See, we told you.’”

“I’m like: ‘So what? I wasn’t meant to marry the man I love? Of course I’ll throw my career away. I don’t care,’” she noted about the warnings she received at the time.

The Actress Says She And Tom Cruise Were ‘Madly In Love’

Tom Cruise at the 'Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning' Mexico Premiere
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When Kidman exchanged vows with Cruise in 1990, she was a rising Australian actress with a handful of credits. That same year, she achieved her Hollywood breakthrough acting alongside him in “Days of Thunder.”

Cruise, 28 at the time, was already an A-list movie star. He had attained fame with movies like “Top Gun,” “Risky Business,” and “Rain Man.”

Speaking about the decision to marry Cruise as an upcoming actress, Kidman said, “Yeah, I got married so young. Suddenly I was 22, 23 years old and I had this huge movie star husband.”

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The actress insisted that marrying the actor “seemed completely natural” for her, noting that they “fell madly in love and it was that simple.”

Kidman’s response was as bold as it was romantic. At that moment, her connection with Cruise preceded her ambition, and she made no apologies for it.

Nicole Kidman Enjoyed Career Highs After Her Divorce From Tom Cruise

Nicole Kidman at CinemaCon 2026
MBS/MEGA

After her 2001 divorce from Cruise, Kidman’s career surged. She won an Oscar for “The Hours” in 2003, earned multiple other film and TV series awards and nominations, and has now become one of Hollywood’s most respected and bankable actresses.

During their time together, Cruise and Kidman adopted two children: Bella, 33, and Connor, 31. When they divorced, both children reportedly stayed with their father and remained in the Church of Scientology, to which Kidman does not belong.

“They are adults. They are able to make their own decisions. They have made choices to be Scientologists, and as a mother, it’s my job to love them,” Kidman said in a 2018 interview, per the Daily Mail.

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According to the news outlet, neither Cruise nor Kidman were said to be present at their daughter Bella’s 2015 wedding; however, Cruise was reportedly the one who bankrolled the ceremony.

The Actress Recently Divorced Her Second Husband, Keith Urban

Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman at the 58th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards
Casey Flanigan/imageSPACE / MEGA

Kidman separated from her second husband, country singer Keith Urban, in 2025, after 19 years of marriage.

Urban, a Grammy-winning musician who was born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, has long been one of country music’s most celebrated artists, with hits like “Somebody Like You” and “Blue Ain’t Your Color.”

The couple, who share two daughters: Sunday Rose, 18, and Faith Margaret, 15, finalized their divorce this January, with sources close to the pair noting they have maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of their children, despite the end of their nearly two-decade union.

In the wake of the split, past clips resurfaced of Urban’s cozy on-stage antics with guitarist Maggie Baugh, 26, fueling rumors of a romance between the pair. However, these rumors were quickly shut down as false.

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But while Urban has yet to be linked to someone new officially, his ex-wife, Kidman, already seems to be in a budding romance with a businessman

Nicole Kidman Was Spotted With Her Rumored New Partner

Nicole Kidman & Keith Urban at Los Angeles Premiere Of
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Unlike Urban, Kidman seems to already be moving on, as she was spotted last month sunning herself in Italy in the company of private equity mogul Michael Reinstein.

The duo has allegedly been enjoying a low-key romance away from the Hollywood spotlight. However, at the moment, neither party has officially addressed reports about their budding relationship.

Meanwhile, sources claim Urban is happy for Kidman and even “relieved” that she has found love again, as it would make it easier for him to be more open about his own love life.

A source told a news outlet that “the moment Nicole confirms a new romance, whether it’s with this guy she’s now linked with or someone else, Keith will be more than happy to do the same.”

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Travis Barker Reveals Secret To Strong Marriage With Kourtney

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Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker head out for lunch at a vegan restaurant in Palm Desert after celebrating their first anniversary

Travis Barker just might have figured out the code to keeping his marriage strong, and it’s not just matching tattoos! 

The Blink-182 drummer and Kourtney Kardashian were long-term friends for years before their relationship became romantic five years ago. 

There is, however, more to their love story. It has not been without its ups and downs, but the pair have stayed together through it all, and now fans have an idea why. 

Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker head out for lunch at a vegan restaurant in Palm Desert after celebrating their first anniversary
Snorlax / MEGA

In a recent interview, Barker spilled on the formula to his lasting relationship with Kardashian.

“We try not to ever fall asleep mad at each other,” the drummer told PEOPLE Magazine. “[We] try to resolve, even if it’s just like, ‘Hey, I thought you were going to meet me for lunch, and you didn’t text me back right away, so I didn’t know if we were meeting for lunch.’”

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The Blink-182 star emphasized that it could be something as simple as taking accountability for actions and making an effort to resolve anything before going to bed. 

Barker shared that resolving issues was important so nobody went to bed feeling disconnected from the other.  In the same vein, the rock star also highlighted the importance of having space even in a relationship. 

Inside Kourtney Kardashian And Travis Barker’s Relationship Timeline 

Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker at fashion show
Jordan Hinton/Image Press Agency/MEGA

The drummer’s approach might be the glue keeping the marriage together, but the lovebirds’ journey to happily ever after did not happen overnight. 

After being friends for years, the duo became romantically involved in 2021. In February of the same year, the Poosh CEO made the relationship official on social media by sharing a photo on her Instagram. 

The partners kept us updated on their loving journey, from family vacations with their shared children to the rock star getting the reality star’s name tattooed on his chest. 

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By September of the same year, they made their first red carpet appearance at the MTV VMAs, and a month later the dynamic couple was engaged. 

In April of 2022, the sweethearts had an LA wedding; however, they later revealed that they were married without a marriage certificate. 

They then got legally married in Santa Barbara later in May, with a third ceremony in Italy. 

Kourtney Kardashian Had A Heartbreaking Miscarriage 

Despite the fairytale whirlwind romance, the Hollywood stars are no strangers to relationship hurdles. 

In Barker’s documentary “Travis Barker: Love Is Louder Than Fear,” the celebrity lovebirds spoke candidly about the heartbreaking pregnancy loss they faced before welcoming their son, Rocky. 

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They revealed that Kardashian suffered a miscarriage in 2020, barely six months after the relationship transitioned from friendship to romance, per The Blast.

“When we lost the baby, we were devastated. We cried for days,” the socialite shared. Barker and Kardashian welcomed their first child together three years later after publicly documenting their fertility journey. 

Shanna Moakler Shares Details Of Travis Barker’s Addiction Battle 

Shanna Moakler Celebrates Birthday at Crazy Horse 3 on 22 Mar 2024
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It seems the “Blink-182” drummer has found his happy ending, but it was not easy getting there, as he has experienced personal hurdles along the way. 

The 50-year-old’s ex-wife, Shanna Moakler, also spoke frankly in his upcoming documentary about his long battle with addiction. 

The Blast shared how the former Playboy model revealed that Barker would take up to 30 pills a day. Even Barker admitted to the severity of the addiction, sharing that close friends and family feared for his life. 

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Travis Barker’s Documentary Dives Into Past Trauma And Near-Death Experiences

Travis Barker plays drums along side DJ Spider at LA's Union Station as the city Celebrate's FIFa World Cup
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The documentary also took a deep dive into his near-death experience. 

The rock star was involved in a plane crash in 2008, which left four others dead. He suffered from PTSD and severe burns and spent three months in the hospital in Georgia. While there, he had 26 surgeries with multiple skin grafts. 

Looking back at that era, Barker described the experience as the wake-up call that forced him to quit his painkillers, sharing that it was the first thing he did after leaving the hospital. 

The 50-year-old mentioned that when he was asked if he ever went to rehab, he would reply that he was in a plane crash and that was his rehab. 

The documentary premiered at the Tribeca Festival in New York City in June and debuted on Hulu on August 13. 

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Paris Jackson Has Savage Reply To ‘Dirty’ Tattoo Critic

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Paris Jackson leaving her hotel during Paris Fashion Week

Paris Jackson has made it clear that unsolicited opinions about her appearance are unlikely to make her rethink the choices that define her. 

The “Hit Your Knees” singer recently faced criticism over her extensive tattoo collection after an outlet shared an Instagram post about paris meeting her mother for the first time. 

Rather than ignore the remark, Paris responded with a sharp joke that turned the criticism back on the person who made it.

Paris Jackson leaving her hotel during Paris Fashion Week
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The exchange began after an E! News Instagram post featured a chakra-inspired tattoo running down the center of Paris Jackson’s chest. 

One commenter complimented her appearance but then criticized her tattoos, writing, “She is gorgeous, but those tattoos just make her look dirty and takes away from her look.”

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Paris did not appear interested in defending her choices or explaining herself. Instead, she answered with a deliberately cheeky response, writing, “Oh no what ever will i do (i’m dirty even without the tattoos).”

The commenter continued the criticism, arguing that Paris had diminished her appearance by getting tattoos. 

“@parisjackson like I said your gorgeous and it takes away. Why did you mess with perfection, you don’t mark up something perfect,” the person replied.

Paris’s response fits with the attitude she has previously shared about her collection. She has accumulated more than 80 tattoos, many of which carry personal meaning, while others appear to have simply reflected an impulse or creative decision at the time.

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Paris’s Tattoos Tell A Much Bigger Story

Paris Jackson has previously opened up about how naturally tattoos became part of her life. In an August 2022 interview with PEOPLE, she revealed that her first tattoo was an impromptu alien design. 

“It’s on my boob, it’s an alien,” she said, explaining that she got it spontaneously when she was younger. “I just wanted it — it’s kind of how they all are,” Paris said of her tattoos, adding, “I’ve done a few of my own,” the 28-year-old added.

Her chest tattoo is among her most recognizable pieces. Paris revealed the intricate chakra-inspired design in 2017 after having it inked down the center of her chest. The design represents energy points and became another distinctive part of her appearance.

However, some of Paris’s tattoos carry significance beyond aesthetics. In June 2017, she had “Applehead” tattooed in cursive across her left foot, a term of endearment associated with her late father, Michael Jackson. 

Sharing the tattoo at the time, she wrote, “With every step I take, you lift my foot and guide me forward,” adding, “Love you.” 

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Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the actress continued experimenting with tattoos, posting an Instagram photo of herself working on a squiggle-shaped design below her right pinky toe and later sharing a video of the freshly inked piece on her Instagram Stories. 

Paris Jackson Reveals More About Meeting Her Mom Debbie Rowe

The reaction to E! News’ footage of Paris meeting her mother, Debbie Rowe, for the first time was followed by the model offering a much more personal account of how that reunion actually unfolded. 

During an interview on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, Paris recalled meeting Rowe at 15 after years of being raised primarily by her father.

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She said she had started asking about her mother around age 10 or 11, but did not meet her until several years later. 

Paris remembered the encounter as surprisingly casual, explaining that she came downstairs and found Rowe sitting in the living room with her grandmother, Katherine Jackson. 

“I came in and I was just like, ‘Hey, mom.’ And she was like, ‘Hi.’ I sat down, we talked for a second, and then we went out for the day and just like hung out,” she recalled. 

Paris said the relationship eventually grew closer, particularly during Rowe’s breast cancer battle. 

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Paris Explains Why She Had No Expectations With Rowe

Paris Jackson leaving Chloe after during Paris Fashion Week
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Beyond describing the first time she saw her mom, Paris Jackson also explained why she believed their relationship could develop so naturally. 

Speaking on the podcast, the singer said she deliberately approached the reunion without expectations, reasoning that placing demands on a relationship could create disappointment or resentment. 

“If I walk into a relationship with expectations, [I’m] probably going to end up being maybe disappointed or frustrated or irritated or a resentment will be born or something,” Paris explained. 

Instead, she said entering the relationship without preconceived ideas created room for something genuine to develop. “And when I walk into something and I don’t have expectations, it creates this really cool space for something organic to just blossom,” she added. 

Paris also pointed to the similarities she shared with Rowe, joking about their astrological signs and saying, “She’s a [Sagittarius], so she’s got the fire, and I’m an Aries, so I got the fire. We’re very similar.” 

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Paris Jackson Calls Rowe Her ‘Clone’ In Sweet Tribute

Paris Jackson strolling in Paris during the Fashion Week
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Before the interview, Paris had offered a much lighter glimpse into her relationship with Rowe, showing that their connection was not limited to the emotional story of reconnecting after years apart. 

For Mother’s Day in May, she shared photographs of herself with Rowe on her Instagram stories and used their striking physical resemblance as the basis for a playful tribute.

One of the pictures was a selfie of the two at a horse stable, most likely Rowe’s Painted Desert Ranch in Palmdale, Calif. “Happy Mother’s Day to the lady they used for my template during the cloning process,” she joked in the caption per E! News.

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Taylor Frankie Paul’s Ex-Husband Makes Stunning Request

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Taylor Frankie Paul

Taylor Frankie Paul has been dealt another blow in her ongoing legal case with her ex-husband, Tate Paul. According to new reports, Tate has rushed to court to make a stunning request regarding Taylor’s recent drug tests. The news of Taylor and Tate’s court battle is just part of the drama that’s surrounded the “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star all of 2026. Several reports from The Blast reveal that the mother of three had been involved in some sort of alleged domestic violence incident with her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen, leading to even more chaos.

Taylor Frankie Paul
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Tate recently filed a motion with a Utah court to unseal drug test results involving his ex-wife, Taylor, according to TMZ. Tate shares two kids with Taylor, Indy and Ocean, and recently asked the court for a restraining order against Taylor over alleged misbehavior.

In the filings, Tate said he believed he should have sole legal and physical custody of their two children. As part of their ongoing custody battle, Taylor was ordered to submit to drug tests. If the results came back clean, she’d be able to have unsupervised visits with her kids. If Taylor failed the drug tests, the visits would become supervised.

Tate Paul’s Restraining Order Against Taylor Frankie Paul Was Denied

Taylor Frankie Paul at CMA Awards 2024
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Despite filing a restraining order, a judge denied Tate’s request in early July 2026, stating that his allegations about Taylor were unsupported and inadmissible.

“As Tate himself recognizes, many of his supporting allegations are based upon inadmissible hearsay, without any corroborating evidence,” the judge wrote, according to E! News. “Many of the concerns, like the children not doing well in school and expressing sadness will require ongoing attention not remedied with an emergency order changing custody.”

Tate’s initial motion came to light while Taylor was staying in a rehabilitation center after being advised by her “mental health team.” A representative for the reality star said that Taylor is “committed to working on herself” and was focusing primarily on her “family and being a good mom.”

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Taylor Frankie Paul Has A Protective Order Against Her Ex-Boyfriend

A previous report from The Blast revealed that Taylor has her own protective order against her ex-boyfriend, Mortensen, as he does against her.

The order was put into place back in April 2026 after a judge said that both of the Hulu stars, who share their son Ever, have displayed “violence” toward each other.

“I’m hoping you’re not just people who thrive on the drama and conflict. You guys have to figure out a lot here. You have to figure out how to function as co-parents,” the judge said.

Before their protective orders were put into place, a video of Taylor physically assaulting Mortensen was shared online. In the clip, Taylor not only struck and punched Mortensen, but she also launched two metal chairs at him, one of which hit her young daughter.

Mortensen released a statement shortly after, saying he was “closing an unhealthy chapter” in his life and moving forward.

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ABC Canceled Taylor’s Season Of ‘The Bachelorette’

Following the release of the video, Taylor received serious consequences, as ABC canceled her season of “The Bachelorette,” which was scheduled to air in March 2026.

“In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of ‘The Bachelorette’ at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family,” the statement read, per The Blast.

Major Advertisers Back Out Of Their Working Relationships With Taylor And ‘The Secret Lives Of Mormon Wives’

And it wasn’t just ABC putting their working relationship with Taylor on the back burner. Another report from The Blast states that Cinnabon backed out of their deal with Taylor, “The Bachelorette,” and “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.”

“Cinnabon has made the decision to terminate its collaboration with ‘The Bachelorette’ and ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,’” a spokesperson from the company said. “Recent developments and allegations surrounding the lead cast member led us to reassess this collaboration as it no longer aligns with our brand values.”

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Apple TV’s Biggest Sci-Fi Series Ever Gets Official Return Update

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In the last few years, Apple TV has quietly become a go-to streaming service for prestige TV, especially when it comes to the sci-fi genre. One of the streamer’s first true sci-fi hits was See, starring Jason Momoa, which ran for three seasons before wrapping up in 2022. Another popular sci-fi show to blossom under the Apple TV banner is For All Mankind, starring Joel Kinnaman, which has now been around for five seasons — Apple TV has already renewed the show for Season 6, confirming that it will be the final season of the show. After releasing several critically acclaimed sci-fi shows in the early 2020s, Apple TV found a culture-changing sci-fi hit with Severance, the mind-melting thriller starring Adam Scott and directed/produced by Ben Stiller.

Even through the release of its second season back in early 2025, Severance was the most-watched Apple TV sci-fi show of all time. It wasn’t until the premiere of Pluribus later in the year that Severance no longer held the record, but there’s no shame in coming in second, right? As if a new Apple TV sci-fi show needed anything to boost the hype, Pluribus was written and created for TV by Vince Gilligan, the same scribe who wrote Breaking Bad. The show also stars Rhea Seehorn, famed for her role in the Breaking Bad spin-off, Better Call Saul. After shattering Severance’s record to become the most-watched Apple TV sci-fi show of all time, Pluribus was officially renewed for Season 2. Creator Vince Gilligan was recently asked on a podcast if he had anything new to share about Pluribus Season 2, he confirmed that filming will begin “in a couple of months.”











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Collider Exclusive · Sci-Fi Survival Quiz
Which Sci-Fi World Would You Survive?
The Matrix · Mad Max · Blade Runner · Dune · Star Wars
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Five universes. Five completely different ways the future went wrong — or sideways, or up in flames. Only one of them is the world your instincts were built for. Eight questions will figure out which dystopia, galaxy, or desert wasteland you’d actually make it out of alive.

💊The Matrix

🔥Mad Max

🌧️Blade Runner

🏜️Dune

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🚀Star Wars

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01

You sense something is deeply wrong with the world around you. What do you do?
The first instinct is often the truest one.





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02

In a world of scarcity, what resource do you guard most fiercely?
What we protect reveals what we believe survival actually requires.





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03

What kind of threat keeps you up at night?
Fear is useful data — if you’re honest about what you’re actually afraid of.





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04

How do you deal with authority you don’t trust?
Every dystopia has a power structure. Your approach to it determines everything.





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05

Which environment could you actually endure long-term?
Survival isn’t just tactical — it’s physical, psychological, and very much about where you are.





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06

Who do you want in your corner when things fall apart?
The company you keep is the clearest signal of who you actually are.





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07

Where do you draw the line — if you draw one at all?
Every survivor eventually faces a moment that tests what they’re actually made of.





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08

What would actually make survival worth it?
Staying alive is one thing. Having a reason to is another.





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Your Fate Has Been Calculated
You’d Survive In…

Your answers point to the world your instincts were built for. This is the universe your temperament, your survival instincts, and your particular brand of stubbornness were made for.

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The Resistance, Zion

The Matrix

You took the red pill a long time ago — probably before anyone offered it to you. You’re a systems thinker who can’t help but notice the seams in things.

  • You’re drawn to understanding how the system works before figuring out how to break it.
  • You’d find the Resistance, or it would find you — your instinct for spotting constructed realities is the machines’ worst nightmare.
  • You function best when you have access to information and the freedom to act on it.
  • The Matrix built an airtight prison. You’d be the one probing the walls for the door.

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The Wasteland

Mad Max

The wasteland doesn’t reward the clever or the well-connected — it rewards those who are hard to kill and harder to break. That’s you.

  • You don’t need comfort, community, or a cause larger than the next horizon.
  • You need a vehicle, a clear threat, and enough fuel to outrun it — and you’re good at all three.
  • You are unsentimental enough to survive that world, and decent enough — just barely — to be something more than another raider.
  • In the wasteland, that distinction is everything.

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Los Angeles, 2049

Blade Runner

You’d survive here because you know how to exist in moral grey areas without losing yourself completely.

  • You read people accurately, keep your circle small, and ask the questions others prefer not to answer.
  • In a city where humanity is a legal designation rather than a feeling, you hold onto something that keeps you functional.
  • You’re not a hero. But you’re not lost, either.
  • In Blade Runner’s world, that distinction is everything.

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Arrakis

Dune

Arrakis is the most hostile environment in the known universe — and you are precisely the kind of person it rewards.

  • Patience, discipline, and political awareness are your core strengths — and on Arrakis, they’re survival tools.
  • You understand that the long game matters more than any single victory.
  • Others come to Dune and are consumed by it. You’d learn its logic and earn its respect.
  • In time, you wouldn’t just survive Arrakis — you’d begin to reshape it.

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A Galaxy Far, Far Away

Star Wars

The galaxy far, far away is vast, loud, and in a constant state of violent political upheaval — and you wouldn’t have it any other way.

  • You find meaning in being part of something larger than yourself — a cause, a crew, a rebellion.
  • You’d gravitate toward the Rebellion, or the fringes, or whatever pocket of the galaxy still believes the Empire’s grip can be broken.
  • You fight — not because you have to, but because standing aside isn’t something you’re capable of.
  • In Star Wars, that willingness is what makes all the difference.
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Here’s When ‘Pluribus’ Season 2 Comes Out

Apple TV has not yet announced a release date for Pluribus Season 2, but now that we know it’s set to begin filming before the end of the year, we have some idea of when the show will return to streaming. It took around nine months to film the first season of Pluribus, so if Season 2 starts production around November, it will be shooting until next year, around August. If Pluribus Season 2 doesn’t wrap until Q3 of 2027, this would make it tough for the series to premiere before the end of next year, leaving the most likely release date for Pluribus Season 2 early 2028.

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Check out the first season of Pluribus on Apple TV and stay tuned to Collider for more updates and coverage of Season 2.


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Release Date
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November 6, 2025

Network

Apple TV

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Directors

Adam Bernstein, Zetna Fuentes, Melissa Bernstein

Writers
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Ariel Levine

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Nevaeh Akira Shares Spicy Dancing Video, Tameka Foster Reacts

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Rihanna Seemingly Addresses Baby Rumors, Talks "Little Pouch"

Nevaeh Akira has folks talking after giving the timeline another glimpse into her pregnancy, but this time, it wasn’t just the baby bump that had folks looking twice. After the mom-to-be shared a playful video showing off her moves, Tameka Foster had something to say about it, and her response quickly added another layer to the conversation.

RELATED: Video Surfaces Of Woman Believed To Be Nevaeh Akira’s Mom Reacting To Comments About Getting Her Daughter Away From Blueface (WATCH)

Nevaeh Defends Her Pregnant Body In New Post

In a video shared to her Instagram page on Wednesday, Nevaeh Akira dances and twerks to Lil Baby’s ‘Dead Fresh’ while wearing a tank top and underwear. As she records herself in what appears to be a bathroom, she shows off her moves before explaining in the caption that she was “just standing weird” and that her body is beautiful “pregnant n all.” She added, “The way I stand is because this baby eating my whole body up 🤣🤣🤣.”

Tameka Foster Shares A Message For Nevaeh Akira

Tameka Foster later came across the video on Hollywood Unlocked and took to the Instagram comment section with a message for Nevaeh Akira. “Baby girl, I love a good time as much as the next woman, but that’s a whole human being you’re carrying,” she wrote. Tameka went on to remind her that some things are “just for you and God to know about,” adding that the video could still be around for Nevaeh Akira’s child to see one day before concluding, “There’s a time and a place. 🤦🏾‍♀️🥹”

Navaeh’s Video Has Folks Split On The Timeline

Folks quickly ran to Navaeh’s Instagram comment section to share their two cents on the pregnancy video. Some said she’s carrying well and should feel free to enjoy herself, while others argued that she can do whatever she wants with her pregnancy. Meanwhile, others weren’t feeling the video at all and felt like this simply wasn’t the time for all that.

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One Instagram user @thepinktea_ said, Shoulda kept this in the camera roll 😭”

This Instagram user @pottyp_ claimed, I can’t wait until she starts loving herself more😢”

And, Instagram user @whatyoudezire commented, Period pooooh🔥”

Meanwhile, Instagram user @mrsqueenzz added, BIG MAMA BIG MAMA 🔥🔥🔥”

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While Instagram user @krownedmula wrote, Carrying very well 👏”

Lastly, Instagram user @sexyface_15 shared, Girl please sit down 😒”

RELATED: Nevaeh Akira Speaks With Police After Fans Allegedly Called Officers Following Blueface Kicking Her Into A Pool (VIDEOS)

What Do You Think Roomies?

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Brand New Day Breaks $700 Million Box Office Record

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Sadie Sink Opens Up About Playing Jean Grey in the MCU

After months of speculation and Marvel secrecy, Sadie Sink can finally openly discuss becoming Jean Grey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The Stranger Things star made her debut as the iconic mutant in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, giving audiences their first look at a new Jean Grey who could eventually become one of the central characters in Marvel Studios’ upcoming X-Menreboot.

In a new interview with Variety, Sink discussed taking on a character who has been an important part of Marvel Comics for decades.

“She’s such an iconic figure in X-Men and in comics, and I’m very excited to bring my iteration of her to life.”

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However, Brand New Day introduces Jean in a very different place than longtime X-Men fans might expect.

Rather than already being a member of the X-Men, Jean is presented as a young mutant struggling with her abilities and the circumstances surrounding her. Although she serves as an antagonist during portions of the movie, Sink says she never approached Jean as an actual villain.

“In this film, they told me that I was the villain, but that you’re not actually the villain, which is how I played her.”

Sink added that she didn’t want to give Jean a traditional villainous personality because Jean herself believes her actions are justified.

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That distinction appears to be an important part of Marvel’s approach to the character. Instead of introducing Jean as the established superhero audiences previously saw portrayed by Famke Janssen and Sophie Turner, Marvel has an opportunity to show how she eventually becomes that hero.

Famke Janssen, Sadie Sink, Sophie Turner

Sink explained that she viewed Jean primarily as a teenager dealing with pain and anger rather than someone who was inherently evil.

“She’s a young girl in pain.”

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According to Sink, the plan was to avoid focusing on the “evil bits” and instead concentrate on Jean as an angry and hurt teenager.

That idea also connects directly to what Sink believes makes the X-Men different from many other superheroes.

“What makes the X-Men special is they are all incredibly flawed.”

Sink explained that mutants have to discover their own relationship with powers they never asked to have. Those abilities don’t necessarily make their lives easier and can instead make them considerably more difficult.

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It’s an approach that could tell us quite a bit about the direction Marvel Studios intends to take with its new X-Men.

The mutants have traditionally worked best when their powers aren’t simply treated as abilities that allow them to become superheroes. Being a mutant is part of who these characters are, and learning to live with that identity has always been central to the franchise.

Jean Grey is particularly suited for that kind of story.

As one of Marvel’s most powerful telepaths and telekinetics, Jean has frequently struggled with abilities that can become overwhelming and, eventually, potentially catastrophic. Her comic book history with the Phoenix Force has made her one of the most powerful characters in the Marvel Universe.

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But Marvel doesn’t appear to be rushing toward that version of Jean.

Instead, Brand New Day gives Sink the opportunity to start much earlier in Jean’s life and potentially develop the character across several movies before exploring some of her biggest comic book storylines.

Sink also revealed that some of the first people she told about landing the role were Matt and Ross Duffer, the creators of Stranger Things.

“The Duffers were some of the first few people I told.”

Sink said she wanted them to know what she would be doing after Stranger Things, and the brothers were excited about the opportunity. Their reaction carried additional weight for Sink because of their love for comics.

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It’s easy to understand the excitement.

After spending years playing Max Mayfield in one of Netflix’s biggest franchises, Sink is moving directly into what could become another defining role, and potentially one that lasts for much of the next decade.

Marvel Studios is currently preparing its new X-Men movie with Thunderbolts director Jake Schreier set to helm the project. Sink’s introduction in Brand New Day now gives the MCU at least one major piece of that team before the movie arrives.

Jean Grey’s future could also introduce another important relationship.

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Kit Connor has recently been reported as Marvel’s choice to play Scott Summers, better known as Cyclops. Jean and Scott have one of the most famous and complicated relationships in X-Men history, making the two characters natural candidates to become central figures in Marvel’s new mutant era.

For Sink, though, Jean’s imperfections may ultimately be what makes the character worth exploring.

Marvel has already had two cinematic versions of Jean Grey and has twice attempted to adapt the Dark Phoenix storyline. Simply repeating that journey would offer audiences little they haven’t already seen.

Starting with a younger, angry and emotionally overwhelmed Jean gives Marvel Studios something different: time.

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Time to show Jean learning about her powers. Time to show her finding others like herself. Time to establish her relationship with the X-Men. And eventually, time to show how one of Marvel’s most powerful mutants becomes Jean Grey.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day may have introduced her as an antagonist, but if Marvel’s plans come together, Sadie Sink’s Jean Grey is only getting started.

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