Science fiction has produced some of cinema’s most ambitious and influential films, from groundbreaking blockbusters to intimate stories built around imaginative concepts. The genre’s greatest achievements have introduced audiences to new worlds, inventive technologies, and provocative ideas while pushing visual effects and cinematic storytelling forward.

For fans of the genre, IMDb users’ scores have made it easy to determine the best sci-fi movies of all time. The highest-rated top 10 science fiction movies include influential classics like Alien and Back to the Future and mind-bending masterpieces like Interstellar and Inception.

25

‘The Thing’ (1982)

IMDb Rating: 8.2/10

Image via Universal Pictures

If there were to exist a hypothetical Mount Rushmore of horror movie directors, John Carpenter would have to be right up there. We’re talking about one of the most revolutionary, groundbreaking, and brilliantly subversive horror auteurs in the genre’s history. For proof, one needn’t look any further than The Thing, Carpenter’s take on John W. Campbell Jr.‘s 1938 novella Who Goes There?

It’s one of the best sci-fi thriller masterpieces of all time, simultaneously working as a chilling horror classic and a reflection of the paranoid psyche of Cold War-era America. Over four decades after its release, the film is still being dissected and praised by cinephiles on IMDb, who confidently call it one of the greatest horror films of all time. —Diego Pineda Pacheco

24

‘Jurassic Park’ (1993)

IMDb Rating: 8.2/10

Image via Universal Pictures

Steven Spielberg is the father of Hollywood blockbusters, and he has reigned supreme in that space since the mid-’70s—but it was the ’90s that were the most lucrative decade for his filmography in history. It was all thanks to masterpieces like Jurassic Park, an engrossing adaptation of Michael Crichton‘s 1990 novel.

Here, Spielberg balances suspense, emotion, thought-provoking thematic work, and jaw-dropping special effects like the absolute pro that he has always been. Jurassic Park is nothing short of one of the best films of the 1990s, a gem that remained the highest-grossing film of all time for four years and is still one of the highest-rated on IMDb. —Diego Pineda Pacheco

23

‘Project Hail Mary’ (2026)

IMDb Rating: 8.2/10

Image via Amazon MGM Studios

Andy Weir has firmly established himself as one of the most enticing hard science fiction authors currently working, and his 2021 novel Project Hail Mary only further enshrined him on that throne. Along came Phil Lord and Chris Miller and fittingly turned the story of Grace and Rocky’s unlikely friendship into one of the greatest hard sci-fi films of all time.

Project Hail Mary can already be counted among those modern sci-fi movies that will be classics. It’s everything that a hard sci-fi space opera should aim to be: faithful enough to scientific rigor without ever sacrificing entertainment value. It’s colorful, it’s emotional, it can be funny whenever it needs to be, and it’s full of the same kind of wonder and movie magic that IMDb users love to see in this genre. — Diego Pineda Pacheco

22

‘A Clockwork Orange’ (1971)

IMDb Rating: 8.2/10

Image via Warner Bros. 

Set in a dystopian version of England, director Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange depicts a world where violence and delinquency are part of the norm. It follows Alex (Malcolm McDowell) and his “Droogs” as they spread chaos and hurt others, which leads to the sci-fi aspect of the film, where the protagonist undergoes extreme rehabilitation using technology that changes his behavior. It’s a strange blend of surrealism and sci-fi elements that fans appreciate, giving it such a high rating.

A Clockwork Orange immerses viewers in a disturbing world that blurs the line between right and wrong. It questions the very nature of evil itself through Alex’s story, which is inevitably linked with political commentary about the extent of control the government can have over individuals’ free will.

21

‘Metropolis’ (1927)

IMDb Rating: 8.2/10

Image via Parufamet

A great sci-fi movie that’s over 100 years old, Metropolis is a groundbreaking and influential masterpiece directed by Fritz Lang. Its story is centered on a privileged individual who is appalled by the newfound knowledge of the harsh conditions the working class is subjected to on a daily basis.

Metropolis is a timeless classic that’s also eerily accurate, as the “future” it depicts isn’t too far off from reality. Its innovative set design is fascinating to watch today, especially when audiences consider that Lang used miniature buildings to bring cityscapes to life.

20

‘Cat City’ (1986)

IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

Image via Mokép

As it turns out, it’s not just the mainstream movies on IMDb’s official Top 250 highest-rated movies that are among the highest-rated sci-fi films on the site: There are also masterpieces as criminally underappreciated as the Hungarian adult animated gem Cat City, which still doesn’t have enough user ratings to enter the official IMDb Top 250.

It absolutely deserves to get there, however, because as far as adult animation made for the big screen goes, it doesn’t get much better than Cat City. It’s one of the most near-perfect animated movies that nobody remembers anymore, a wildly creative and funny cult classic full of thrilling moments, stunning hand-drawn designs, and clever social satire. —Diego Pineda Pacheco

19

‘Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi’ (1983)

IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

Image via Lucasfilm

The iconic third installment in the original Star Wars trilogy, Return of the Jedi depicts Luke Skywalker’s (Mark Hamill) continued struggle against the Galactic Empire, alongside the new couple Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), who embark on a misadventure of their own.

The perfect continuation of the Skywalker Saga, Return of the Jedi captivated audiences around the globe and became a massive blockbuster. It was the highest-grossing film of the year after earning a whopping $475 million at the global box office, further establishing the widespread influence of the sci-fi franchise.

18

‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’ (2004)

IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

Image via Focus Features

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, directed by Michel Gondry, is an emotional and effective breakup movie that conveys the sorrow, bewilderment, and regret that frequently come with the end of a relationship. Set in a version of the world in which it is possible to forget things thanks to new memory-erasing tech, it follows a couple, Joel (Jim Carrey) and Clementine (Kate Winslet), as they navigate the confusing line between needing to remember and wanting to forget.

The film is a beautiful and meaningful depiction of what it is like to lose someone important in one’s life. With its weird dream sequences and emotional lines, the film captivates, entertains, and moves to tears all at once. Joel’s eventual desperation to cling to the memory of Clementine will definitely strike a chord with viewers, who may not have the same opportunity for a second chance as the pair does in the film. Its amazing IMDb score of 8.3 makes it a perfect fit on the list of best sci-fi movies.

17

‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ (1968)

IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

Image via MGM

Director Stanley Kubrick‘s 2001: A Space Odyssey is an iconic entry in the genre that needs no introduction. Its ambitious storyline spans thousands of years and is anchored on the discovery of a monolith that a crew is sent out to investigate. Alongside the now-legendary AI HAL 9000, they soon find themselves in mind-bending situations.

With its stunning visuals, brilliant use of music, and profound narrative, 2001: A Space Odyssey became the quintessential space opera that highlighted the viability of the genre. Although it wasn’t initially appreciated as the masterpiece that it is, Kubrick’s film is recognized today as a classic that served as a genre-defining moment in cinematic history.

16

‘Dune: Part Two’ (2024)

IMDb Rating: 8.4/10

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Before the 2020s rolled in, no one could have possibly blamed fans of Frank Herbert‘s Dune, one of the greatest and most important works of sci-fi literature in history, for thinking that it was impossible to live up to the novel’s legacy in cinematic form. That was before Denis Villeneuve entered the scene. 2021’s Dune was great, but it’s Dune: Part Two that’s bound to go down in history as one of the greatest sci-fi blockbusters of the first half of the 21st century.

It’s an action-adventure masterpiece through and through, and even calling it one of the best sci-fi movies of the last 10 years feels like a bit of an understatement. The way Villeneuve’s vision blends with Herbert’s imagination here is jaw-dropping, offering plenty of unforgettable moments of excitement, amazement, emotion, and purely epic science fiction. —Diego Pineda Pacheco

Ridley Scott is not only one of the most reliable filmmakers in the industry, but also one of the most versatile. Although Scott is best known for his science fiction blockbusters and epic period dramas, he’s also directed a number of old-fashioned films in genres that the industry simply doesn’t make anymore. Someone to Watch Over Me would feel like a novelty in 2026, as the same premise would be much more likely to be used for a television show than a film. Its blend of romantic drama, conspiracy mystery, and crime-adjacent suspense is surprisingly tricky to pull off, but Scott delivers a mature film for adults that is nonetheless a great work of entertainment. Someone to Watch Over Me is the type of film that would be a standout within any other director’s filmography, and it just happens to get lost within Scott’s because of how uniformly excellent his body of work is.

Set within New York City, Someone to Watch Over Me follows the NYPD detective Mike Keegan (Tom Berenger), who is hired to serve as a bodyguard for the socialite Claire Gregory (Mimi Rogers) after she is attacked by the disgruntled artist Joey Benza (Andreas Katsulas), who has been feuding with her friend Winn Hockings (Mark Moses). Keegan is an experienced detective who thinks that serving as the protector of a wealthy woman is beneath him, but he becomes more open to Claire after they spend more time with one another. The growing heat between Keegan and Claire causes an issue of a different type, as he does not want to be unfaithful to his wife Ellie (Lorraine Bracco). Someone to Watch Over Me is moody, atmospheric, and uses class and cultural differences to create a fascinating love triangle. It’s become one of Scott’s most forgotten films, but it’s held up remarkably well.

‘Someone to Watch Over Me’ Combines Romance and Noir

Image via Columbia Pictures

Scott is one of the most professional and consistent directors of the past 50 years, and Someone to Watch Over Me is simply more polished and slick than it would have been with another filmmaker behind the camera. Although Scott’s talent for worldbuilding is commonly associated with crafting science fictional environments or recreating historical battles, Someone to Watch Over Me treated New York itself as a character that pushes each of the protagonists out of their comfort zone. Claire’s apartment has a glistening opulence that stands in stark contrast to the agitated loneliness that she feels, and there is even a dark demeanor to the more heartfelt moments between Keegan and his family. Scott ensures that there is a sense of uneasiness that hangs over both Claire and Keegan, despite their significant difference, which puts them in similar positions. This is best expressed in the opening scene, which looks at their vastly different experiences at parties that are held in their honor; even though they both have cause for celebration, Keegan and Claire feel unresolved, which explains why they become attracted to one another.

Someone to Watch Over Me is smart in putting together its love triangle because the film avoids being melodramatic or saccharine in a way that would sacrifice the integrity of the writing. Although Keegan isn’t painted as being an inherently duplicitous person who would casually break his wife’s trust, it makes sense that he would share a bond with Claire when they both have cause to fear for their lives; the romance only makes the thriller aspects of the film more effective, as Keegan has more cause to offer her protection. Even though Someone to Watch Over Me was released before the “serial killer craze” dominated crime films in the late ‘80s and ‘90s, it does effectively show how terrifying a lone, unpredictable criminal can be.

‘Someone to Watch Over Me’ Is One of Ridley Scott’s Most Underrated Films

Scott is not often given enough credit for putting women at the center of his films, and Someone to Watch Over Me delicately handles its female characters without resorting to stereotypes. Claire is given defining traits beyond her wealth and status, ensuring that there aren’t any socialite cliches; similarly, Bracco is given the opportunity to give a full-formed, distinctive performance that is more than just “the wife.” That Someone to Watch Over Me is a film about a woman being stalked that isn’t sexually exploitative makes it a novelty in the ‘80s, and it’s easy to imagine that the same material would look very different with a different director at the helm. There was certainly the potential to make a trashy, nasty work of exploitation, but Someone to Watch Over Me gives viewers a reason to care about the characters that goes beyond the narrative conceit.

Someone to Watch Over Me is a great showcase for the entire cast, as Bergenger is a terrific character actor who wasn’t offered as many opportunities to play the lead as he should have been. The film also benefits from the score by Vangelis, who had obviously been a previous collaborator of Scott’s, and their music creates even more poignancy for the most emotional moments. While Someone to Watch Over Me could be seen as a more fleshed-out version of a procedural thriller, it also succeeds at taking a genre slant on romantic tropes. When looking beyond Xenomorphs and gladiatorial arenas, Scott made films with true heart that featured heartfelt explorations of the human condition.

Someone to Watch Over Me is streaming free on Tubi.

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Someone to Watch Over Me

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Release Date

October 9, 1987

Runtime

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103 minutes

Writers

Danilo Bach, David Seltzer

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  Mimi Rogers

  Claire Gregory

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  Lorraine Bracco

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  Ellie Keegan

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After waiting for a month for another Taylor Sheridan series to arrive, following an explosive first season finale of Dutton Ranch, August 2026 brought with it the third season of one of the great TV producer’s best shows. Lioness Season 3, Episode 1, “The Spider and The Fly,” was one of the best episodes of the show so far, according to some, with the return of Zoe Saldaña‘s Joe McNamara setting the standard for what might just be the most unmissable season yet.

Since then, another two episodes have aired to similar success, with each scoring over 8.3/10 on IMDb and helping maintain Lioness‘ position at the top of the streaming charts. But the return of Lioness was paired with some frustrating news for Sheridan fans, with it confirmed that one of his most acclaimed shows had been delayed. Renewed for Season 3 in December 2025, Landman fans had originally expected production on Tommy Norris’ (Billy Bob Thornton) return to begin in May. However, the series will instead begin its third season production in September, likely leading to a big delay with the show’s next premiere.

Inspired by Christian Wallace‘s Texas-set podcast Boomtown, Landman is undeniably one of Sheridan’s most popular projects, with the likes of Andy Garcia, Sam Elliott, Jacob Lofland, and Colm Feore helping Thornton lead a pitch-perfect ensemble to huge acclaim in the most recent second season. Despite said second season coming to an end seven months ago, Landman is still shooting down streaming milestones. Officially, the series just crossed the 300-day mark on the Paramount+ top ten in the U.S., where it currently ranks in seventh place.

Will Taylor Sheridan’s ‘Lioness’ Return for More?

We already know that Landman is set to return for another season, but what is happening with Sheridan’s current big hit, Lioness? The series has yet to be picked up for a fourth season, with its all-star cast — including Saldaña, Morgan Freeman, Nicole Kidman, Michael Kelly, and LaMonica Garrett — likely to prove tricky to align schedules with. However, the Quick Reaction Force team leader Bobby herself, Jill Wagner, seems confident that Lioness will roar once more, saying, “We’re going to get Lioness Season 4” in a recent interview.

Landman and Lioness are streaming on Paramount+. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates and coverage of all of Sheridan’s future projects.

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Release Date

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November 17, 2024

Network

Paramount

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Elsie Hewitt and Pete Davidson’s reconciliation seems to be going well, but fans don’t eagerly approve.

The former couple, who welcomed their first child together last year, recently settled their custody squabbles following their breakup.

As they navigate this new chapter as amicable co-parents for their daughter, the comedian seems to have moved on with another mystery woman.

In a new social media post, the model detailed her attendance at Olivia Dean’s concert in a series of photos. Attached to the upload was Dean’s hit track, “Baby Steps.” 

Hewitt seemed to be having the best time, dressed in a mid-length white polka-dot halter-neck gown and low, strap-back heels.

In one frame, she sang emotionally to Dean’s song alongside a friend while confetti fell. However, it was the accompanying caption that drew fans’ attention.

 “Scottie crawled for the first time to this song. We dance to Olivia Dean every day. It’s our album,” Hewitt began, admitting the artist got her through the ups and downs of 2026.

In the post’s conclusion, the Playboy model seemingly alluded to her breakup before thanking Davidson for gifting her concert tickets. “I hope whoever fumbled her is shaking in their boots, but hey thanks for some of the inspo behind The Art of Loving, and thanks to my baby daddy for the tix,” she wrote.

Fans Attack Pete Davidson For Elsie Hewitt Breakup

While Hewitt’s post indicated no bad blood, fans weren’t quick to forgive the “Bupkis” actor for their split. 

“If we are going to talk fumbles, let’s talk Pete,” one fan commented, while another fan penned, “Baby daddy fumbled, but that’s ok because you’re going to end up with a king.”

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Others, however, praised the stand-up comedian for giving his ex the chance to have a girls’ night out. “Emphasis on the baby daddy purchasing tickets,” one user noted. 

Some defended Davidson for stepping up, warning that if Hewitt were on good terms with him, fans didn’t need to be negative.

The Former Couple Reached An Agreement Over Their Daughter 

The appreciation post comes less than a month after Hewitt and Davidson were finally able to see eye to eye on parenting their daughter, Scottie Rose Hewitt Davidson.

According to The Blast, after having a series of “productive conversations” behind the scenes, the former lovebirds reached “joint agreement.” Davidson and Hewitt shared in a statement their plans to continue what is best for Scottie, saying:

“We are cooperatively coparenting our daughter whose well-being remains our top priority, and we are fully committed to working together to give her love from both of us.”

Fans may recall that the pair broke up just two months after welcoming their daughter in December 2025.

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As fans struggled with the news of their sudden breakup, hoping the pair would patch things up, Hewitt dropped a major bombshell. 

The model in a TikTok post made scathing allegations that she was single-handedly parenting Scottie without Davidson’s support. She made the revelation after paparazzi captured her looking rough and disheveled while running errands. Hewitt was seen pushing her daughter in a stroller. 

Addressing remarks about her appearance, the model said in the clip, “I have a baby to take care of, and I also have to work and make money, and I’m doing it on my own.”

Davidson never publicly addressed the comments, but close sources to the “Saturday Night Live” alum denied it, describing him as a “very present father” who was shouldering all the financial cost.

Pete Davidson Sparks Romance Chatter

As Davidson and Hewitt put the past behind them and move on as co-parents, the comedian has wasted no time getting back in the dating market.

Shortly after their agreement was confirmed, “The King of Staten Island” actor was spotted enjoying a cozy night out with Sarah Jane Nader in Brooklyn, New York. 

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As reported by The Blast, the duo looked super comfortable in each other’s company, although no visible display of affection was witnessed. It is unclear to what extent their relationship went, but the decade-long age gap between Davidson and Nader set tongues wagging.

Neither party has yet to confirm if they are an item. 

Natalie Harp has been a trusted member of President Donald Trump’s team for years and before making headlines in August 2026. 

Harp joined Trump’s campaign in 2020, going on to serve as one of his top aids just four years later.  In 2025, she was promoted to executive assistant to the President of the United States.

As Harp continued to work alongside Trump, she started gaining media attention for her various appearances. The spotlight intensified  in August 2026, after Sen. Jon Ossoff made a remark about Harp at a rally in Atlanta.

“While the sailors on the Lincoln fight his war, while he fruitlessly drains our munitions and oil reserves, the president sleeps through his meetings,” Ossoff told the crowd. “He golfs and trades stocks. See, he doesn’t want to do the job. He wants to build his ballroom and travel with Natalie, on their apparently defenseless flying palace gifted by the emir of Qatar.”

White House communications director Steven Cheung subsequently slammed Ossoff’s remarks in a statement shared via social media.

“Instead of denigrating hard working people serving their country, Jon should look deep into his soul and ask himself why he’s a miserable person who hates this country,” Cheung wrote at the time. 

Keep scrolling for everything to know about Harp:

Natalie Harp Was Diagnosed With Cancer

Harp was diagnosed with stage II bone cancer in the early-to-mid 2010s. Amid her health battle, she became critical of the healthcare system after standard chemotherapies failed her. She later took an experimental treatment and claimed her prognosis went from dying of cancer to living with it. 

Harp previously claimed to Fox News in 2019 that she was initially denied entry into clinical experimental trials before Trump signed his Right to Try Act in 2018. She has credited Trump for allegedly saving her life. (Experts have stated that the immunotherapy drug Harp described using was already FDA-approved and did not fall under the Right to Try Act.)

Natalie Harp Joined Trump’s Team in 2020

Hard became a member of the advisory board for his 2020 presidential campaign. Four years later, she became an aide. Harp was named Trump’s executive assistant in 2025. She reportedly has access to his Truth Social account.

Natalie Harp Is a Former TV Host

In 2020, Harp started working as a presenter on the One America News Network, a far-right channel that has infamously promoted the false claims that there was voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election. Harp remained with the network until 2022. 

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Natalie Harp Was Nicknamed the ‘Human Printer’

During Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, Harp was given the nickname “Human Printer” because she reportedly carried a portable printer by her side. Multiple outlets have reported that Harp prints out news articles and social media posts for Trump because he allegedly prefers printed media. 

Natalie Harp Was Allegedly On the Alternate Plane With Trump Out of Turkey 

According to multiple reports, Harp was with Trump on an alternate plane out of Turkey in July 2026 amid an alleged threat from Iran. 

Important note: “If you are thinking about using an alternative method instead of standard treatment, be sure to talk to your doctor first. It can be a challenge to find trustworthy information about the safety and effectiveness of alternative treatments. Also, some of these treatments can require a lot of time and money, and they may require travel away from your family and friends,” the American Cancer Society cautions on its website. “Choosing alternative treatment instead of mainstream cancer treatments might put you at serious risk. Delays or interruptions in standard treatment can give the cancer more time to grow. Even early stage cancers can become hard to treat successfully if proven treatment is delayed long enough.”

Tulsa King‘s future has been revealed ahead of creator Taylor Sheridan‘s move to NBC.

Paramount+’s head of originals, Jane Wiseman, spoke with Deadline on Monday, August 17, about the show, saying, “We’re about to announce the premiere date for Tulsa King season 4, that one is coming out. It’s an incredible season. Sly [Stallone] is in great form in the show, and there’s going to be some surprises. But that show is continuing.”

Wiseman was then asked if the series could return after season 4.

“It could. Between Tulsa and Landman, which Taylor is writing right now,” she teased. “Frisco, Dutton, Madison, we have a lot of business, and we’re going to be in business for time to come.”

Related: A Guide to Every Non-‘Yellowstone’ Show in the Taylor Sheridan Universe

As the man behind Yellowstone and its myriad spinoffs, Taylor Sheridan is one of the most important people at Paramount Network — but the Yellowstone universe is only one part of his empire. While other super-producers — Ryan Murphy and Shonda Rhimes, for example — enlist other writers and directors to work on projects bearing […]

It was previously reported by Variety reported that a writers’ room for Tulsa King season 5 is now open. Despite being largely filmed in Atlanta, the show will make the swap and relocate to New York.

The outlet claimed the decision was driven by both budgetary and storyline considerations. With New York increasing its film tax incentive program twice in the last three years, Tulsa King made the official move.

The potential shakeup comes after Tulsa King has faced some challenges behind the scenes. The Paramount+ series started with Terence Winter as the showrunner alongside Sheridan. Once Tulsa King was renewed for season 2, Winter resigned as showrunner due to creative differences but returned as the series’ head writer.

Sheridan opted not to fill the role of a showrunner for season 2 and instead hired a director and executive producer to oversee day-to-day production.

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Dave Erickson went on to join the show as a showrunner for seasons 3. By season 4, Tulsa King went into production without a showrunner in place and relied on Scott Stone, who was an executive in charge of production from 101 Studios, to oversee the show day to day while Winter was back again as a writer.

Sheridan, for his part, previously closed a major with NBCUniversal. The five-year overall deal for film, TV and streaming will begin January 1, 2029, after Sheridan’s TV deal with Paramount — which goes through 2028 — officially ends.

Paramount will retain the rights to Yellowstone and the other franchises Sheridan created under his deal with the company, so he is expected to create brand-new property for NBCUniversal. Sheridan’s move came after Paramount’s merger with Skydance Media.

Christy Carlson Romano is comparing child stardom to the deadly brain disease CTE while reflecting on the death of former child star Hayden Panettiere.

“The former child actor exists in a category the world does not know how to hold. We are children when the public wants to feel protective of us, professionals when the industry wants to profit from us, and spoiled celebrities when we eventually show symptoms of having been both,” former child actor Romano, 42, wrote in an essay for Elle published on Tuesday, August 18, revealing her candid reaction to Panettiere’s untimely and shocking death at age 36.

“Early fame is like CTE,” she continued. “Not as a diagnosis. As a way of thinking about repeated impact.”

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE,  is a brain disease likely caused by repeated head injuries that kills nerve cells in the brain, according to Mayo Clinic. It is often associated with professional athletes who endured repeated concussions.

Romano’s essay comes two days after Panettiere, who launched her acting career after starring in various TV commercials at the age of 11 months, died suddenly in Greenville, South Carolina. The cause and manner of her death are the subjects of further investigation, per a statement issued by the Greenville County Coroner’s Office on Monday, August 17, though authorities responding to the scene discussed an “unresponsive female” who was experiencing “cardiac arrest” and a suspected “drug overdose.”

Detailing her CTE comparison, Romano — who rose to fame through acclaimed theater work from the age of 6 —  continued, “We now have language for youth sports: protocols, helmets, parents worried about concussions. But we have almost no language for what happens when stress, scrutiny, rejection, adult pressure, and the collapse of privacy become the architecture of a childhood.”

She further noted that child actors are treated as “lucky,” “cute,” and “talented” exceptions “whose labor powers one of the most profitable storytelling machines in the world, while their mental needs are treated as inconvenient or irrelevant.”

Romano, who has gone on to star in multiple Disney Channel projects including 2002’s Cadet Kelly opposite Hilary Duff, also argued that if child actors don’t “climb to A-list [status] fast enough, we’re torn down as if we’ve committed some unspeakable mortal sin.”

The essay also referenced Panettiere directly. “[I’m] crushed. Another performer I grew up with, gone too soon,” Romano wrote.

An autopsy into Panettiere’s death was completed and detailed by the Coroner’s Office on Monday.

“On August 16, 2026, at approximately 1:51 PM, a 911 call was received regarding a reported cardiac arrest,” its statement read. “First responders and Emergency Medical Services arrived on scene and located a female in cardiac arrest. EMS personnel initiated advanced cardiac life support measures; however, resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful, and the individual was pronounced deceased at 2:32 PM.”

The report noted that “at autopsy, no signs of trauma were discovered that would have contributed to the death.”

According to a friend who spoke to Page Six on Monday, the Heroes alum experienced severe back pain before her death due to a paralyzing injury she sustained earlier this year.

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“I know she suffered earlier this year with her back,” hairdresser Erick Orellana told the outlet. “At one point, it was even hard for her to move her legs.”

Related: Amanda Bynes Reacts to Hayden Panettiere’s Death: ‘Life Can Hit You Hard’

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Amanda Bynes reacted to Hayden Panettiere‘s death after facing her own challenges in the public eye. Bynes, 40, took to LinkedIn on Monday, August 17, to share screen grabs of an interview Panettiere gave in which she reflected on childhood stardom. “Life can hit you hard, and fast,” Bynes wrote. “What a horrible situation. 🙏🏼🕯️🕊️.” […]

Panettiere’s father, Skip, said in a statement shared with Us on Monday that his daughter was an “incredible light” who was “beloved” by her family. “A force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen,” his statement continued at the time.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). 

Summer is winding down, which means one thing: it’s time to start thinking about your fall wardrobe. Before we get ahead of ourselves, it’s important to remember that this hot weather is going to hang on for a while. It’s tempting to stock up on cozy essentials, but we also need pieces that can work during both chilly mornings and steamy afternoons.

Luckily, Walmart is overflowing with stylish summer-to-fall pieces. The best part? They’re all under $15 right now! From casual T-shirts to cute dresses, give your wardrobe a little mini update with our favorite finds listed below.

15 Under-$15 Fashion Finds at Walmart

1. Our Favorite: Track pants are having a moment, and these are a budget-friendly way to get in on the trend. With a relaxed straight-leg fit and classic design, these pants can be kept casual and simple or dressed up a bit with the right top and accessories.

2. Runner-Up: It’s hard to go wrong with a crisp white button-down shirt. The slightly relaxed fit makes this work for a breezy summer day with denim shorts, but you can easily make it office-friendly with trousers.

3. Comfy Go-To: This pullover fleece top is cozy enough to keep you warm on a particularly chilly night or morning, but not so overwhelming that you’ll want to pull it off immediately. We love the button-down detailing that makes it feel more elevated.

4. Sporty Chic: Whether you’re headed to the tennis courts, the gym or just running errands, this stretchy skort is so cute and functional, thanks to the built-in shorts.

5. Basic Essential: For under $5, you really can’t pass up this ribbed tank top. It’s a staple you’ll wear again and again under cardigans or on its own depending on the temps.

Related: 17 Polished, Tailored Cardigans That Hide Tummy Pooch

A great cardigan does so much more than keep you cozy. The right one creates a polished, pulled-together silhouette while giving you a little extra coverage through the midsection — without awkward tugging, clinging or strategic posing. The key is in the details: structured shoulders, flattering necklines, strategic buttons and gently draped fabrics that turn […]

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6. Effortlessly Stylish: This cotton swing dress is the best transitional dress. The ruffled skirt feels feminine and flouncy, while the soft and breathable 100% cotton material keeps it lightweight and comfy.

7. Pretty Prints: Snag this smocked peasant midi dress in one of the autumn-friendly prints, like burgundy florals. It looks chic on its own, but it also layers beautifully under a cardigan.

8. For Chilly Days: Everyone needs a ribbed long-sleeve top in their wardrobe as the weather gets cooler. This pick has a stretchy, lightweight feel and is such a simple, versatile piece.

9. Low Profile Look: Slim, low-profile sneakers have taken over, and you can’t beat the $10 price point here. These look more elevated than running shoes but feel just as comfy and functional.

10. Autumn Classic: Stock up on everyone’s favorite fall piece while it’s under $15: the flannel button-down. This pick has a slightly oversized fit that makes it work as the perfect soft layer.

11. Cozy Feels: With its oversized fit and longer style, this waffle knit sweatshirt is soft and perfect for wearing while at home, but it’s also cute enough to pair with jeans when you’re on the go.

12. Goes With Everything: Snag a few of these crew neck T-shirts for under $10 and you’ll wear them all season long (and probably beyond that). They’re soft, slightly stretchy and lightweight, and they come in a ton of color options.

13. Elevated Tee: This knit T-shirt looks a little more stylish and elevated thanks to a subtle striped design and soft fabric. Keep it simple with jeans or shorts, or dress it up with trousers.

14. Made for Lounging: Need a cute matching set for hanging at home or running errands? Look no further. This t-shirt and shorts set is cozy enough for sleeping, but cute with sneakers and jewelry for wearing out of the house.

15. Easy Breezy: Sandals are definitely still a footwear option for the summer-to-fall transition, and these buckle slides are a great pick. They’re stylish and comfortable, with plenty of cushioning and just a little bit of height.

Related: Walmart’s New Arrivals Look Like They Cost 3x the Price

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Still shopping for your go-to summer wardrobe? Skip the fancy boutiques and big-name designers. Walmart’s latest arrivals include on-trend styles, looks that are ready for a night out and luxe basics, all of which are so stylish that they can easily be mistaken for something a lot more pricey. The best part? They start at […]

HBO Max’s The Last of Us is one of the channel’s most critically acclaimed vehicles and is arguably the series that gave respect to the medium of video game adaptations. The series was championed by Craig Mazin in collaboration with the creative director of the game, Neil Druckmann. Even throughout the changes made to Season 1, The Last of Us largely remained thematically and spiritually close to its source material.

Pedro Pascal became beloved in the role of grizzled Joel Miller, a survivor ferrying a teenage girl through the dystopian landscape of an Infected America. Fans were understandably devastated during his Season 2 demise, but this allowed the series to grow and change with the times. The storyline neatly follows Joel’s journey in the second game and makes way for the big Season 3 change that everyone has been waiting for.

‘The Last of Us’ Season 3 Will Finally Show Abby’s Perspective

The Last of Us Part II pulled off one of the most ambitious stories, and not just in video game form. The narrative shows the path of violence and how it turns into a cycle. It does this by posing Ellie as a potential hero who turns into a monster. On the flip side of the coin is Abby Anderson, the person responsible for Joel’s traumatizing and brutal death.

Played by Kaitlyn Dever in the HBO Max series, Abby seems like an easy villain. She is unrelenting in her pursuit of Joel, but it isn’t so easy as that. When Ellie embarks on her revenge against Abby, it becomes clear that the two aren’t that different. Season 3 will ensure that Abby isn’t the villain, and it will do this by making a significant change from the second season.

The Last of Us Season 3 will be primarily from Abby’s point of view as she suffers indignities and trauma just as Ellie has. Abby’s path towards revenge perfectly mirrors Ellie’s, but while Joel’s surrogate daughter becomes more monstrous, his killer becomes more understanding and empathetic.

The success of this is more or less dependent on how Ellie is perceived. The yin and yang of Abby and Ellie doesn’t necessarily work if the protagonist doesn’t turn into a bloodthirsty villain. Ellie’s character left a lot to be desired, but the final season will change so significantly that viewers may forget about that. It will be Abby’s show in Season 3 and will change to something unexpected.

‘The Last of Us’ Season 3 Will Turn Into a High-Octane War Thriller

Ellie’s world is considerably small, all things considered. She lives a generally cushy life when compared to others in this dystopian world. While Jackson acts like a commune, Abby’s home in Seattle is run like a military dictatorship. Viewers have already seen the evils that Isaac (Jeffrey Wright) is capable of, but Season 3 will likely turn into a war drama, if the storyline of the games is any indication.

The WLF doesn’t just worry about the Infected, but a decades-long battle with fellow survivors, known derogatorily as the Scars. This group is a fundamentalist religious group, who prefer the term Seraphites. They mark their faces when they come of age and adhere to strict gender roles. The conflict between the Wolves and the Scars is largely over territory, but battles have been fought for less.

The sophomore season of The Last of Us gave viewers a taste of what is to come, but Season 3 will throw audiences full tilt into a world of war, violence, and ethical quandaries. Abby’s arc revolves around her prejudice against the Seraphites until she meets a brother and sister on the run from them.

Yara and Lev were born into the community but became pariahs because of their beliefs. Abby rejects any sort of camaraderie with them before slowly becoming more educated and understanding their plight. The blood fued between the Seraphites and the Wolves maintains that there are no winners in war.

Season 3 will demonstrate another cycle of violence, but on a greater scale. Even at the end of the world, with Clickers and Bloaters to worry about, people will still kill people for no real reason at all. This type of storytelling is what puts The Last of Us ahead of any other modern series. It delivers on its promise and is incredibly ambitious in doing so. While the beginning of the show was closer to a relatively quiet character drama, the final showdown will be a high-octane tragedy where everyone involved becomes the walking wounded.

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Release Date

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January 15, 2023

Network

HBO

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Showrunner

Craig Mazin

Directors

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Craig Mazin, Peter Hoar, Jeremy Webb, Ali Abbasi, Mark Mylod, Stephen Williams, Jasmila Žbanić, Liza Johnson, Nina Lopez-Corrado

Writers

Neil Druckmann, Craig Mazin, Halley Wegryn Gross

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Get a rundown of Us‘ top stories making headlines in celebrity news, sports and entertainment on August 18, 2026. Here are the key takeaways:

• Hayden Panettiere‘s estranged mother, Lesley Vogel, broke her silence following the actress’ shocking death, criticizing her on-again, off-again boyfriend Brian Hickerson, who was with Hayden when she was declared dead. Vogel said she takes comfort in knowing Hayden has been reunited with her late brother, Jansen Panettiere.

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• Sister Wives star Janelle Brown revealed her new boyfriend Pete in an Instagram post, calling the romance “pretty wonderful” after previously saying she had no interest in dating post-divorce from Kody Brown. Former sister wife Christine Brown gave her stamp of approval in the comments, noting Pete is a construction worker like her own husband, David.

• Remember the Titans actor Ethan Suplee recalled smoking heroin at the film’s 2000 premiere in a Substack tribute to his late costar Hayden Panettiere. Suplee wrote that finding the courage to accept help was “the miracle” of his life.

Edited by Samantha Benitz. Story produced with AI assistance