Entertainment
The Money Debate After James Van Der Beek’s Death
James Van Der Beek’s sudden death at 48 left Hollywood stunned, and it sparked a wave of generosity few could ignore.
Within days, a GoFundMe created for his widow and six children crossed $2.6 million. Big names opened their wallets, and fans followed.
However, as the total climbed, so did the questions. Why would a recognizable TV star need public donations? The answer, it turns out, is far more layered than many critics assumed.
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James Van Der Beek’s Fundraiser Drew Major Hollywood Support
The GoFundMe for James Van Der Beek’s family quickly became a rallying point for the industry.
Steven Spielberg contributed $25,000. Zoe Saldaña pledged $2,500 a month, while Jon M. Chu gave $10,000. Lyn Lear also donated $5,000. Others, including Julie Plec, Ricki Lake, and Lydia Hearst, also generously chipped in.
The fundraiser’s rapid rise to more than $2.6 million underscored Van Der Beek’s stature in Hollywood.
After losing his three-year fight with colorectal cancer on Feb. 11, colleagues and friends clearly wanted to ease the burden on his family.
To many, the donations were a sign of love and appreciation for an actor who had worked steadily for decades.
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Van Der Beek’s GoFundMe Sparked Online Backlash
Still, not everyone felt comfortable with the campaign. Some online commenters questioned why a star of “Dawson’s Creek” would need financial help.
One critic wrote, “This doesn’t sit right with me. Not at all. Sure, I get it. But thousands of people around the world face this exact situation every day and deal with the struggle.” They added, “He had to have had life insurance … and residual checks.”
The criticism grew louder after reports suggested that James Van Der Beek had secured a down payment on a Texas ranch shortly before his death.
That fueled speculation that he had more money than people realized.
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However, actor Mehcad Brooks pushed back forcefully, writing, “You have no idea wtf you’re talking about. You have no idea the pain they went through. It’s ok to stfu when you can’t know what the f-ck you’re talking about.”
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James Van Der Beek Was Famous But Not Ultra-Wealthy
While Van Der Beek became a household name playing Dawson Leery, early TV contracts were rarely lucrative for young actors.
At the start of his career, he was reportedly paid modestly. According to a Warner Bros insider, every actor cast for “Dawson’s Creek” was unknown at the time.
“Katie Holmes was cast from a home video on her kitchen counter. I can’t imagine James had any points,” they said.
However, salaries increased over time, possibly reaching six figures per episode in later seasons, but residual deals in that era were often limited.
In an interview with Today, Van Der Beek admitted, “There was no residual money,” adding, “I was 20. It was a bad contract.”
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After “Dawson’s Creek” ended in 2003, he stayed busy. He appeared in “Don’t Trust the B—— In Apartment 23,” “CSI: Cyber,” and “Pose,” and acted in films like “Varsity Blues” and “The Rules of Attraction.”
Van Der Beek also competed on “Dancing With the Stars” and even voiced Boris on “Vampirina.”
These jobs kept him visible, but they did not come with blockbuster-level paydays.
Inside Van Der Beek’s Costly Medical Battle
After James Van Der Beek’s diagnosis in 2023, he qualified for SAG insurance, which likely covered much of his traditional cancer treatment.
However, insurance typically does not cover alternative therapies, and according to reports, the Hollywood star pursued both.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, a family friend shared, “It was a lot of ups and downs these past few years.”
The friend noted that in Van Der Beek’s last year, the actor tried everything to survive, including attempting the holistic route and traveling out for other options, even if they cost thousands of dollars.
“He really wanted to live and had a lot to live for. He fought really, really hard,” they added.
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Even so, Van Der Beek remained hopeful. During an interview, he revealed that he knew from the start that he would turn the experience into something positive.
“When I heard the news,” he said during a 2025 “Today” interview, “I was like, ‘This is going to be the best thing that’s ever happened to me.’”
Van Der Beek added that a voice told him, “‘You’re going to make changes in your life that you would never, ever make if you didn’t have this extreme of a diagnosis, and it’s going to add healthy, happy years to your life.’”
James Van Der Beek And Kimberly Renew Their Vows
Van Der Beek’s widow, Kimberly, is devastated by his death. However, shortly before he died, the pair reassured each other of their undying love.
As reported by The Blast, the couple renewed their wedding vows just days before he died, creating a deeply emotional moment that family and friends have shared publicly.
According to the report, they held an intimate ceremony in their bedroom at their Texas ranch, deciding just two days beforehand to mark their commitment again with new rings, candles, flowers, and loved ones nearby.
Kimberly revealed that friends helped organize the “simple and beautiful” event from their bed, and some guests even joined via Zoom as an instrumentalist played music, including “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”
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That final act of love and commitment stood as a poignant tribute to their 15-year marriage and the life they built together.
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Our age of streaming is used to the serialized, bingeable format that nearly every show offers these days, but that wasn’t always the norm. For most of its lifespan, television has been a long-term commitment where audiences would have to wait a week (and then months) between installments, extending the drama and giving the story time to breathe. Western TV shows typically fall into that old-school method of storytelling, though there are some that feel almost as if they were made for the more modern streaming-style world.
We’ve put together a group of Western dramas based on either their serialized or anthology-like nature or their high bingeability that make them perfect for this modern age. While most of these are modern shows made within the last 30-something years, they all harken back (in one way or another) to the old American West, to a time long passed. So if you’re ready for a historical venture into the unknown or a Western-flavored triumph of 21st century proportions, look no further than these shows that feel as if they were made for streaming.
1
‘Hell on Wheels’ (2011–2016)
It wasn’t until the 2010s that the streaming craze really took off, with platforms producing their own original content to rival what audiences were used to on cable. So, Hell on Wheels predated House of Cards by a few years, reminding audiences that AMC still had what it takes to tell a riveting, serialized historical drama in record time. Set on the Great Plains, this show is one of the most notable Western programs in the last decade — perfect for fans of streaming shows like 1923.
Telling the story of ex-Confederate Cullen Bohannon (Anson Mount) alongside the growing Transcontinental Railroad, the five-season drama mixes genuine history with fictional accounts to craft something quite impressive. A highly bingeable series, Hell on Wheels could easily have been a streaming show if made today. Now that it’s over, it’s certainly one worth diving back into.
2
‘The Son’ (2017–2019)
After Hell on Wheels wrapped up, AMC wasn’t done with the Western quite yet. Premiering a whole year before Yellowstone, the network’s adaptation of The Son by Philipp Meyer is a powerful two-season horse opera that grips the viewer with each new installment. Hitting many of the same beats that fans loved when binging Yellowstone (but arguably done better), this is one not to miss.
The series follows Texan cattle baron and family patriarch Eli McCullough in both the “present day” of 1915 and the past of the 1850s. Played as an old man by Pierce Brosnan in a career-defining role and Landman star Jacob Lofland in the past, The Son details both the wild frontier of the 19th century and the industrial age of the 20th — even flashing forward into the 1980s in the second season. Brosnan is at his best (and most frightening) here, offering a performance certainly worthy of the feature-level programs offered on streaming.
3
‘Deadwood’ (2004–2006)
When it comes to prestige Western television, Deadwood really pioneered the concept. Streaming outlets may offer plenty of great horse operas worthy of that high-quality label, but it was HBO that first made that happen. Set in the titular South Dakota mining town, Deadwood expertly blends historical characters and events with a fictionalized narrative that almost requires a binge to fully appreciate.
Like many streaming programs today, Deadwood is full of cursing and violence, but that’s what the Old West could be like at times. With expert performances from Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, Molly Parker, Jim Beaver, and the rest of the impressive ensemble, this three-season drama has been hailed as one of television’s greatest for a reason. It even produced a feature-length movie finale for those who wished it went on longer.
4
‘The Magnificent Seven’ (1998–2000)
A resurgence of interest in the Western spiraled throughout the 1990s after several successful films led the charge, leading to more Western TV shows than audiences had seen since the ’60s. One such program was The Magnificent Seven, a television remake of the original 1960 film that took its time to explore the members of the title Seven in an episodic format that highlighted each gunslinger. With Michael Biehn leading the charge as Chris Larabee, he proved that he could headline the genre as well as anyone.
With a great cast and a highly bingeable two seasons, The Magnificent Seven built upon the foundation of the original film (remade in the extended two-part pilot) and gave new life to the title heroes. With the feel of classic Western television but with a more modern network television aesthetic, the series would’ve been perfect in today’s streaming landscape. It’s also just a great time that ended too soon.
5
‘Into the West’ (2005)
A Steven Spielberg-produced miniseries event, Into the West played in six two-hour episodes that deserve to be revisited again on streaming. Following the dual narratives of the Wheeler family as they pioneered the American West and the Lakota people as they react to the changes around them, the miniseries is an engaging pivot from usual Western fare that examines nearly the entire century. Armed with a who’s-who list of cast members, this TNT production could easily have been spit into several films.
With a visual quality that was impressive for the day and a plot that echoes many of the same ideas found in its streaming contemporaries (the 1883 miniseries comes to mind), Into the West is an underrated triumph that chronicles what it took to settle and civilize the wild frontier. Limited event television at its finest, Into the West embodies many of the same visual, technical, and thematic qualities that make so many streaming shows stand out as crowning achievements today. Although only six episodes, it boasts a nine-hour runtime.
6
‘How the West Was Won’ (1976–1979)
Similar to Into the West in some ways, How the West Was Won was an attempt by ABC to breathe new life into the Western film of the same name by expanding on the Macahan family as they venture into the West. Beginning with The Macahans television film, the series expanded into a three-part miniseries before eventually spawning two more seasons. Utilizing an engaging mix of episodic storytelling with occasional serialized threads, this is another program that would’ve done well on streaming.
Starring Gunsmoke legend James Arness as Zeb Macahan and Bruce Boxleitner as his nephew Luke, How the West Was Won consists of three seasons total, with each of the program’s 28 episodes running at 90 minutes a piece. In today’s streaming world where some episodes of Stranger Things run for two-hours, How the West Was Won would have thrived with an almost unlimited runtime. It’s loads of fun too, chronicling the Macahans’ story from the Civil War into the 1870s.
7
‘Dead Man’s Gun’ (1997–1999)
Anthology programs like The Twilight Zone and Black Mirror do well on streaming platforms due to the weird, strange, and one-and-done nature of the stories these shows tell. If that’s something that tickles your fancy, then Showtime’s often forgotten Dead Man’s Gun is the next bingeable Western for you. Taking inspiration from Winchester ’73, the series follows a cursed gun that changes hands every episode, leading to the unfortunate demise of whoever uses the titular firearm.
By the end of the two-season anthology, the whole thing is wrapped up in a series finale that reveals the truth about the title gun, but even without that episode, Dead Man’s Gun is a show that would’ve done wonders on streaming, especially if each season had been split in two. Narrated by Kris Kristofferson, the show featured an impressive list of guest stars that would make even The Twilight Zone blush. Just another reason why this show would’ve thrived in the streaming world.
8
‘Longmire’ (2012–2017)
Okay, this one is a bit of a cheat for two reasons. Firstly, Longmire is not a traditional Western, but a neo-Western that feels like a spiritual successor to many of the classic lawman-based horse operas of yesteryear. But the biggest reason this is a bit of a cheat is that although Longmire originally aired on A&E, the series was cancelled by the network and later revived on Netflix for its final three seasons. So, in some sense, this is actually a streaming show, though it didn’t start out as one — perhaps if it had, it would’ve lasted longer.
Following the adventures of rural Wyoming Sheriff Walt Longmire (Robert Taylor), Longmire was a great addition to the canon of the modern West that took the initial material from the Craig Johnson novels and elevated it for the screen. The brilliant mix of episodic mysteries and long-term serialized plots made the transition from A&E to Netflix feel seamless. It’s no wonder the streamer was so willing to pick up A&E’s top-rated program, which continues to draw fans in after all this time.
9
‘Have Gun — Will Travel’ (1957–1963)
Although Gunsmoke has proven to be a streaming hit, most classic Western programs don’t feel as if they’re built for streaming. The slower, more episodic pace of many horse operas sets them apart from many of the stories told on streaming platforms. However, after The Mandalorian proved that one-and-done Western-inspired plots are perfect for the streaming world, there’s no denying that Have Gun — Will Travel would’ve succeeded in this format as well.
With six seasons under Paladin’s (Richard Boone) gunbelt with episodes running at 25 minutes a piece, Have Gun — Will Travel is the perfect show for a quick binge. As Paladin travels around the western United States, he finds himself often using his wit (rather than his gun) to solve conflicts across the frontier. Of course, he’s no stranger to a gunfight either, making him one of the best TV gunslingers out there.
10
‘Lonesome Dove’ (1989)
In the wake of Robert Duvall‘s passing, there is no better (nor more bingeable) Western miniseries out there than Lonesome Dove. Based on the exceptional novel by Larry McMurtry, the four-part television epic (billed by many as an extended film) follows ex-Texas Rangers Gus McCrae (Duvall) and Woodrow F. Call (Tommy Lee Jones) as they drive cattle from Texas to Montana. It’s a powerful tale of love, loss, friendship, violence, and just about everything else that makes up the American dream.
Lonesome Dove did impressive numbers on CBS back when it aired in 1989, even spawning a continuation series with some returning cast members. But on streaming, Lonesome Dove certainly would have soared. As the perfect tribute for Western fans, this six-hour epic is a masterclass in genre filmmaking that touches on everything that makes the novel (and the West itself) so fascinating, with performances of a lifetime from Duvall and Jones that give it a distinct flavor.
The Hollywood couple tied the knot in a low-key ceremony at New Orleans’ iconic Preservation Hall in June 2022, as reported by The Blast.
In October 2024, they welcomed their first child together, though they chose to keep details like the baby’s name and gender private at the time.
Despite their split, sources close to the former couple insist they still share “love and respect” for one another and remain committed to co-parenting their 15-month-old.
As news of the breakup spreads, fans have begun revisiting images and quotes from the Louisiana wedding. Now, however, those memories noticeably carry a different weight.
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Fans Revisit Alexandra Daddario’s Wedding As Divorce News Breaks
On February 20, 2026, PEOPLE reported that Daddario and Form were officially dissolving their marriage after three years together.
The outlet quoted a statement from a representative for “The White Lotus” star confirming the decision.
“Alexandra Daddario and Andrew Form have made the decision to end their marriage,” the actress’s rep said.
The announcement quickly sent fans back to 2022, when the couple walked down the aisle.
“My immediate thought went to their wedding pics,” one user noted on Reddit. “Not a lot of celebrity weddings stick in my memories, but this one was one of them.”
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Daddario’s Relationship Timeline With Andrew Form Before Their Divorce
Daddario and Form celebrated their wedding with a Vogue feature in June 2022, accompanied by an interview about their relationship. In the conversation, the actress recalled their “meet-cute” encounter on an unusually empty downtown street in New York at the height of the COVID pandemic.
Form asked her out on a dinner date, sparking a relationship journey that culminated in a marriage proposal in August 2021.
Speaking to Vogue, however, Daddario revealed they had already committed to getting married in a previous drunken moment.
“We got engaged then, but we had both agreed to marry each other one night in April 2021 after too much wine,” she said.
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How ‘Mayfair Witches’ Brought Alexandra Daddario’s Wedding To New Orleans
Daddario said she originally dreamt of getting married in Italy, but those plans changed after she landed a leading role in AMC’s “Mayfair Witches.” The series was set to begin filming in New Orleans in April 2022.
With production bringing her to Louisiana for an extended period, Daddario and Andrew Form ultimately decided to host their wedding in the city instead.
The decision was also influenced by close friends who had previously celebrated their own nuptials there.
“My friends Allie and Jake had the most amazing wedding in New Orleans,” Daddario told Vogue. “When I got [the] job, I thought of Allie and Jake, and we switched it to New Orleans. It’s a city full of music and life.”
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The Couple Commit To Co-Parenting After Split
In their statement to PEOPLE confirming the divorce, Daddario’s representative said the choice to split was made amicably.
“The decision was made with love and respect,” the rep said. “They will continue to co-parent their child together and appreciate privacy as they navigate this transition.”
While no details were provided regarding the reasons behind the split, social media users were quick to weigh in with their own theories.
“A new baby can put a lot of pressure and tension on a marriage,” one Redditor wrote, referencing the couple’s 15-month-old son.
There has been no confirmation from Daddario, Form, or their representatives to support any such speculation.
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Alexandra Daddario Balancing ‘Mayfair Witches’ And New Film Roles In 2026
As Daddario enters a new chapter in her personal life, her professional calendar is showing no signs of slowing down.
The actress has been filming the third season of “Mayfair Witches” since October 2025, with principal photography scheduled to wrap in Vancouver, British Columbia, this February.
Beyond the AMC series, Daddario is also attached to portray Catherine “Kitty” Hershey in an upcoming biographical film chronicling the history of The Hershey Company.
The movie is titled “Hershey,” and features “American Horror Story” star Finn Wittrock as Kitty’s husband, Milton.
Additional projects reportedly in development starring the actress include “Inground,” “Double Booked,” and “Happy Life,” though official release dates have yet to be announced.
Lil Baby dropped some fire emojis under Olandria‘s Instagram post. But her boo, Nic Vans, wasn’t feeling it and fired back at the rapper. Now, Baby is setting the record straight and letting folks know it wasn’t that deep.
Related: Issa Kiii! Lil Baby Has The Internet In Tears After Video Shows Him Taking A Tumble While Snowboarding (WATCH)
Nic Vans Responds To Lil Baby After Comment On Olandria’s Post
On Friday (Feb. 20), Olandria shared a 20-slide photo dump on Instagram filled with selfies, glam shots, and behind-the-scenes flicks. She kept the caption simple, a single red heart emoji, and used Lil Baby’s track ‘Mrs. Trendsetter’ as the soundtrack for the post.
It didn’t take long for the post to land on Lil Baby’s radar. The rapper slid into the comment section and left four fire emojis: “🔥🔥🔥🔥.” No words. No context.
However, Olandria’s Love Island co-host and boo, Nic Vans, didn’t seem to be happy with the comment. Nic responded to Lil Baby writing, “I hate YoungBoy.” While some social media users speculated that Nic was simply trolling, others pointed out that NBA YoungBoy’s song ‘I Hate YoungBoy’ is widely viewed as a diss toward Lil Baby.
Lil Baby Clears The Air On His Comments
As Nic’s comments became the talk online, users quickly began debating Lil Baby’s intent. Some questioned whether the rapper was simply supporting someone using his music or subtly trying to make a move. After The Shade Room shared the interaction, Lil Baby stepped into the comment section to address the speculation directly.
“Never heard of her or him!! She used my song I comment on all the girls who I see use ‘Mrs Trendsetter’ !! Thank you to the 🔥 women who make content to my music.”
With that, the rapper made it clear he was showing appreciation and not applying pressure to the bombshell beauty that became famous from her appearance on ‘Love Island USA.’
Social Media Reacts
Instagram user @liloletinyy wrote, “Dominique wasn’t expecting white chocolate to come behind his lady like that 😭😭”
Another Instagram user @jyeshaa wrote, “Now y’all know Nic was trolling and playing 😭”
While Instagram user @finesh_t.ashh wrote, “Ain’t NO WAYYYY he don’t know who the hell olandria is 😂 she’s literally been trending since last summer 😭🫠”
Instagram user @brownskin_beautty wrote, “Nic did too much it was never that serious”
Another Instagram user @_theoriginalstar wrote, “Idk lil baby I used it on my recent post & I ain’t get a comment 🌚😭.”
While Instagram user @itskimbella5 wrote, “I love Nic!! He doesn’t not play about Olandria.”
Instagram user @amourmaddii wrote, “He said AHT AHT not this one 😂😂😂😂”
Another Instagram user @theonlyericap wrote, “Lil baby and Da baby show love for women that use their song. It’s nothing personal. It’s their way of saying Thanks to their supporters 🔥❤️”
While Instagram user @bazzybinstaccin wrote, “Professional way to handle the situation.”
Related: Outside?! Olandria Carthen And Nic Vansteenberghe Go Viral After Apparent Night Out At The Club (VIDEOS)
What Do You Think Roomies?
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Texture is what truly separates a basic outfit from an expensive-looking one. Kyle Richards proved exactly that with her latest slouchy, woven shoulder bag — the kind of piece that instantly adds dimension and style. While celebrity-approved bags usually come with designer price tags, we found a $20 version that delivers the same rich-looking effect.
The Real Housewives star was spotted on February 10, 2026, in Beverly Hills, California, keeping things sporty in an oversized black hoodie, bright blue leggings, Nike sneakers and aviator sunglasses. However, it was her woven black shoulder bag that transformed the entire look. The slouchy silhouette and intricate texture gave it that effortless, ‘rich mom’ finish — no logos required!
Get the Amszke Woven Vegan Leather Shoulder Bag for $20 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
When it comes to Taylor Swift’s fashion, we’re used to paying close attention — especially when she wears something new. Whether it’s a street-style outfit or a full on-screen moment, her looks always give Us something to talk about. The latest style detail we couldn’t miss? A pair of $75 retro sneakers she wore in […]
While Richards’ exact bag remains unknown, the Amszke Woven Shoulder Bag proves you don’t need a Bravo-sized budget to copy her look. Made from vegan leather, this piece comes in black, brown and cream, and has the same slouchy shape and rich woven texture that reads designer at first glance.
It’s roomy enough for your everyday essentials (phone, wallet, sunnies and lip gloss) and trendy enough to give basics a chic boost. Throw it on with leggings for rich-mom-on-the-go energy or style it with wide-leg denim and a cozy knit for off-duty polish. Either way, that woven texture makes it feel luxe rather than lazy.
Beyond Richards’ endorsement, this bag has earned serious love from shoppers. One reviewer dubbed it their “go-to everyday bag,” saying it “looks way more expensive than it is.” Another buyer noted it holds a “surprising amount” while still sitting “comfortably over your shoulder.”
If texture is the secret to making basics look expensive, this woven shoulder bag is the easiest way to tap into it. It delivers the same slouchy, rich-looking dimension that made Richards’ outfit pop — without the designer markup. Grab it at Amazon for $20 and upgrade your entire wardrobe in one move.
Get the Amszke Woven Vegan Leather Shoulder Bag for $20 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more woven bags here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
Jennifer Aniston’s airport style always strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and polished. No matter where she’s headed, a comfortable pair of sneakers is a non-negotiable in her travel wardrobe. And lucky for Us, her exact $75 pair is still available, so we can easily copy her first-class style. Which style does the Friends star swear by? Aniston has […]
Corey Feldman
I’m the Emperor of Caesars Palace …
Crashes Club, Performs ‘Jessie’s Girl’
Published
Jessie had better watch it because Corey Feldman‘s coming for his girl — the star sang all about it after crashing a show in Las Vegas Friday night!
The actor pulled up to Caspian’s Rock & Roe, a speakeasy-style rock lounge inside Caesars Palace … where he jumped onstage and belted out Rick Springfield‘s hit song “Jessie’s Girl.”
Feldman kicks off his appearance by saying he can’t believe he got talked into performing … before calling Springfield a friend and singing his dang heart out.
At the end, CF jokingly asks for tips … cradling a bucket with the word painted on the side.
Feldman pulled up to the spot with his girlfriend Adrien Skye and Caesars executive Justen Crews before playing with the house band.
Caspian’s is a hit spot in Vegas BTW … Macy Gray has performed in the joint — while Van Halen star Sammy Hagar christened the venue at its opening.
First Rick Springfield, now Corey Feldman … man, Jessie can’t catch a break!
Nothing says the ‘90s like a deep running feud between two major artists. There are countless industry beefs that define the era, from 2Pac vs. Notorious B.I.G. to the Oasis‘ Gallagher brothers, Noel and Liam. However, the particular feud between Guns N’ Roses’ frontman Axl Rose and Nirvana’s frontman Kurt Cobain stands as one of the most critical of the time. Their major rock rivalry was fueled by clashing ideologies and a tense 1992 MTV VMA confrontation, where Rose ultimately threatened Cobain. Because of that, Cobain refused to have Nirvana support the Guns N’ Roses/Metallica stadium tour, disliking Rose to the point of considering the entire band “talentless.” The highly anticipated tour could have been legendary, yet both acts were unable to move forward from their disdain of one another. But while the feud has long been known and referenced, not many know the exact song that Cobain himself deemed Guns N’ Roses’ worst work, initiating much of his hatred for him and the band as a whole.
When it came to controversial songs, no track quite pushed the envelope the way that Guns N’ Roses’ “One in a Million” did. Released in 1988 on G N’ R Lies, it caused immediate controversy due to derogatory comments about the black community, members of lgbtq+ community, and immigrants. As a very public and vocal critic of Guns N’ Roses, Cobain specifically condemned Rose for just how offensive the track was. With Nirvana representing the opposite end of the rock spectrum, he despised the song’s racist and homophobic slurs, using it as a primary example of why he disliked the band entirely.
The Story Behind ‘One in a Million’
If there is anything embedded within the DNA of Guns N’ Roses, it’s that they were never afraid to go beyond the imposed boundaries and say whatever they deemed fit, even if it landed them on the “wrong” side of history. That’s why when Rose decided to write a song about his experience getting hustled at a Greyhound bus station when he first came to Los Angeles, he spared nothing when it came to potentially offensive lyrics.
Police and n*****s, that’s right, get outta my way
Don’t need to buy none of your gold chains today
Immigrants and f*****s, they make no sense to me
They come to our country, and think they’ll do as they please
Like start some mini-Iran, or spread some f*****g disease
And they talk so many goddamn ways, it’s all Greek to me
Radicals and racists, don’t point your finger at me
I’m a small town white boy just tryin’ to make ends meet
Don’t need your religion, don’t watch that much TV
Just makin’ my livin’, baby, well, that’s enough for me
It could have been a clash of genres, but it wasn’t meant to be.
Given Cobain’s strong stance on feminism and social justice, the song most certainly didn’t land well with him. His disdain stemmed from how offensive and exclusionary he found its lyrics, which stood against everything he publicly championed as an artist. And of course, Cobain wasn’t the only one to find offense with the song. Most music critics found “One in a Million” to be an outright abomination, with an OC Register writer calling it “the most repellent slice of right-wing paranoia ever to be released by a major label.”
Nirvana vs Guns N’ Roses
So what was Rose’s response to the controversy? Without initially apologizing or taking much accountability for the slurs used, he defended the lyrics by claiming that they served as a reclamation of the rules imposed upon him. Rose later went on to clarify that he didn’t identify as a homophobic, insisting that some of his icons, including Freddie Mercury and Elton John, were bisexual or gay. He also issued an apology for those offended by the song, deeming the lyrics to be “simple and extremely generic.” Yet, the damage was done, and Cobain wasn’t finding much empathy in his heart to offer. Cobain’s criticism of Guns N’ Roses ran deep, rooted in a clashing of values rather than just a criticism of their music. “We’re not your typical Guns N’ Roses type of band that has absolutely nothing to say” he shared in a 1991 interview with Seconds magazine. Cobain stood against their macho posturing, sexism, and what he saw as exclusionary attitudes, leading to their rivalry to remain unresolved by the time of his tragic death in 1994.
Hilary Duffis done letting the negative narrative about her fly!
After Ashley Tisdale published a candid essay about being part of a parenting circle she described as toxic, fans speculated that the “Lizzie McGuire” alum was among those involved.
More than two months after the controversy went viral, drawing attention even from Duff’s estranged sister, the actress is finally setting the record straight.
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Hilary Duff Shuts Down Ashley Tisdale’s ‘Toxic Mom Group’ Allegations
The “How I Met Your Father” star addressed the controversy directly, making it clear that she’s no stranger to public scrutiny and that the rumors were unfounded.
“I mean, this is not new for me,” the 38-year-old told the Los Angeles Times in a new interview. “I’ve had this since I was maybe 15 and starting to get followed around by paparazzi.”
Duff explained that being in the spotlight meant every detail of her life was documented and dissected. As a result, stories about her often gain attention in ways most normal people never experience.
The singer added that social media escalated the story with clickbait spreading half-truths and lies.
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“It’s hard because you’re like, ‘Wait, whoa, that person kind of got it right,’ and ‘Whoa, that person doesn’t know what they’re talking about,’” Duff said before recalling a narrative she saw that shocked her.
“I saw something that was like, ‘None of the moms at school actually like her and neither do the teachers,’ and I was like, ‘First of all…’” Duff dismissed before praising the women at school.
When asked how she shuts out the noise, Duff replied that it “depends on the day,” but she would normally do something relaxing, like take a hot tub.
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Hilary Duff Felt ‘Unfairly Portrayed’ By Ashley Tisdale’s Mom Group Essay
Before Duff confronted the claims, those close to her already revealed that she felt she was wrongly represented in the “High School Musical” alum’s article.
According to The Blast, the source revealed that Duff and the other suspected moms felt hurt and shocked at the revelation, as their perspectives were not told in Tisdale’s story.
“The moms insist there was no ‘mean girl’ behavior and say they were genuinely trying to be there for one another during a really vulnerable time in all of their lives,” the insider shared.
The source added that the members of the group felt hurt by Tisdale going public, as whatever issue they had could have been settled privately.
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Hilary Duff Reveals How She Handles Her Friendship Dynamic
Duff has since been candid about how she makes friends and maintains relationships with them.
Last November, in an appearance on the “Therapuss” podcast, the “Mature” singer confessed that her approach in her circles is to sort things out while avoiding conflict.
She went on to reflect on communication, acknowledging that having honest conversations about expectations after a rough patch could be overwhelming. Duff admitted to being in such situations but had to do them to avoid lingering tensions.
“I don’t want to make anyone feel bad by my actions. I’d rather have a conversation about it,” she shared, per The Blast.
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What May Have Sparked Hilary Duff And Ashley Tisdale’s Reported Fallout?
As past interviews of Duff discussing how she handles difficult conversations resurfaced, speculation grew about what might have led to tension between her and Tisdale.
Per The Blast, a source close to the circle revealed that the rift was caused by “misalignment of values that Ashley decided to make public.”
Another claimed that Tisdale had long felt disconnected from them, adding that her speaking out was to encourage people to leave toxic relationships.
When fans rumored the conflict was a result of the “Phineas and Ferb” actress’ MAGA beliefs, her rep was quick to shut it down, stating she is a registered Democrat.
Hilary Duff’s Mom Group Drama Spills Into Her Rift With Sister Haylie
Duff and Tisdale’s alleged rift took a new twist when, unexpectedly, Duff’s estranged sister appeared to side with Tisdale. As The Blast previously reported, Tisdale and Haylie’s kids had a playdate, which the mothers excitedly shared on Instagram.
Following Haylie’s show of support for Tisdale, Hilary got candid about their strained relationship, which she referenced in her song “We Don’t Talk.”
The “Gossip Girl” alum described their strained bond as the “most lonely part of my existence.” The sisters have not been seen together publicly since 2019, and their social media trail has noticeably faded.
Last fall, Jason Statham and Guy Ritchie fans everywhere rejoiced when it was revealed that the actor and director would be reteaming for their sixth collaboration in the upcoming thriller flick Viva La Madness. After so many projects together, the duo have the hit-making business down to a science; consistently delivering audiences pulse-pounding, action-heavy stories with a hero we can truly believe in. Also featuring Matthew Vaughn, Jason Isaacs, Camila Mendes, Vinnie Jones and more, the movie will pull its story from J.J. Connell’s 2011 novel of the same name and will throw viewers into the chaotic world of a drug dealer (Statham) who finds himself caught up in a money laundering scheme. Yes, we know what you’re thinking: Classic Ritchie and Statham stuff.
The two men have been working together since 1998, when they both broke ground through Ritchie’s cult classic Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. In the nearly three decades since, they’ve reunited numerous times to drive box office sales through the roof and become true masters of the genre. Tragically, it’s already been a few years since their schedules crossed over, with their most recent film, Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre, exploding into cinemas back in 2023. That simply means that we’re far overdue for another Statham and Ritchie collaboration.
While you’re waiting for all hell to break loose in Viva La Madness, a free streamer will be able to hold you over and kick it back to the beginning as, beginning on February 28, Tubi will become the home base for Ritchie and Statham’s star-studded action thriller, Snatch. Not only is Snatch the sophomore feature for both the actor and director, but it also boasts an incredible starring lineup that, in addition to Statham, includes Brad Pitt, Stephen Graham, Alan Ford, Benicio del Toro, Dennis Farina, Bobbie Gee and more. Sticking to his gangster-centered bread and butter, Ritchie dives back into the criminal underworld through his second production in a story that follows two different narratives and is bursting at the seams with unforgettable characters.
‘Snatch’ Launched Guy Ritchie and Jason Statham to New Heights
As if the success of Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels wasn’t enough, Snatch came onto the scene and proved Ritchie wasn’t just a one-hit wonder. Against its $10 million production budget, the film raked in a staggering $83.6 million and received largely favorable reviews from critics. It also helped solidify the Ritchie and Statham partnership, which would allow them to move forward with numerous titles in the future.
Head over to Tubi on February 28 to stream Snatch.
- Release Date
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January 19, 2001
- Runtime
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102 minutes
Entertainment
A ‘Yellowstone’ Star’s Forgotten Crime Thriller Is Getting a Second Chance on Streaming
Ryan Murphy‘s long and controversial expanding list of television projects doesn’t look set to slow down anytime soon. Earlier this month, Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette debuted to positive reviews from both audiences and critics, as Murphy tries to shake off some of the backlash from his ongoing Monster anthology. Next in line for the prolific producer is an adaptation of the Bret Easton Ellis novel The Shards, which reportedly began filming back in November.
Starring in Murphy’s next project is Wes Bentley, who is set to portray Terry, the father of Debbie, who will be played by Hayes Warner. Best known for his recurring role as Jamie Dutton in Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone, Bentley is no stranger to a Murphy project, having featured in a trio of American Horror Story installments. Ahead of his next starring role, one of Bentley’s more divisive projects from the past fifteen years is about to head to a new streaming site.
Directed by two-time Academy Award-nominated editor Saar Klein, After the Fall is a 2014 drama that is often compared to the mammoth hit series Breaking Bad. Alas, this comparison is not in quality but in story, with the Bentley-led movie following “An insurance adjuster throws morality to the wind and turns to a life of crime to support his family.” As of March 1, 2026, you can catch After the Fall on Starz in the U.S., as it joins the likes of Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio‘s Gangs of New York, Sicario: Day of the Soldado, James Cameron’s record-breaking Titanic, and more on the platform.
‘After the Fall’ Faced Backlash When It Arrived
Despite featuring the talent of Bentley in the lead role, After the Fall faced plenty of backlash from audiences and critics when it debuted in 2014. This is illustrated best on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, where critics awarded it a 36% score, and audiences gave a woeful 25%. In one review, critic Robert Abele wrote:
“Yes, we’re living in a post-Breaking Bad era of morally squishy male antiheroes, so when co-writer and director Saar Klein has jobless New Mexico insurance adjuster Bill (Wes Bentley) try to keep the family afloat by way of an off-the-cuff robbery spree, comparisons to TV’s geek kingpin Walter White haunt every scene like burn-in on a flat screen.”
After the Fall will be available to stream on Starz this March. Stay tuned to Collider for more streaming stories.
- Release Date
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February 9, 2014
- Runtime
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109 minutes
- Director
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Saar Klein
- Writers
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Joe Conway
- Producers
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Hans Graffunder, Sarah Green
Team USA had the full support of the Gaudreau family at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Johnny Gaudreau’s widow, Meredith Gaudreau, and his parents were spotted in the crowd during the men’s hockey semifinal matchup against Slovakia on Friday, February 20. (Team USA ultimately won the game, advancing to the gold medal championship round against Canada on Sunday, February 22.)
“You should be here, John, and I’m so sorry you aren’t,” Meredith wrote via her Instagram Stories later on Friday. “So proud of you and your legacy.”
Meredith also shared a sweet pic of daughter Noa, 3, decked out in Team USA gear and holding an American flag before the game in Milan, Italy. (In addition to Noa, Meredith and Johnny shared sons Johnny Jr., 2, and Carter, 10 months.)
Late hockey star Johnny Gaudreau’s wife, Meredith Gaudreau, is celebrating their son’s 1st birthday. “Happy 1st Birthday to our baby boy! We love you so much, Baby Johnny! Already so strong and so special,” Meredith wrote via Instagram on Saturday, February 22. “‘I can’t believe you gave me a boy,’ is all John said over […]
Johnny, a forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets and a favorite for the 2026 Olympic hockey team, died in an August 2024 accident at the age of 31. Johnny and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau, were struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver while riding their bikes before their sister Katie Gaudreau’s wedding in New Jersey.
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy,” the Ohio hockey team said in a statement at the time. “Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving father, son, brother and friend.”
The statement concluded, “We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family and friends on the sudden death of Johnny and Matthew.”
Johnny and Meredith Gaudreau’s daughter Noa. Courtesy of Meredith Gaudreau/ Instagram
Meredith, who started dating Johnny in 2018, broke her silence that same month.
“Thank you for the best years of my life. Despite losing you, I am still the luckiest girl in the world to have been yours. I love you so so much,” she wrote via Instagram in August 2024. “You were perfect. Some days it felt too good to be true. I love every single thing about you. You are my forever and I can’t wait to be with you again. I love you so much, forever and ever.”
In a follow-up tribute, Meredith called Johnny “the absolute best dad in the world.”
“[He was] so caring and loving. The best partner to go through parenthood with,” she wrote in a social media upload. “John never missed a single [doctors’] appointment. Was the best at putting the baby to sleep and the Apple of Noa’s eye. I love how much she looks like him. We are going to make you proud. We love you so so so much, Daddy.”
Courtesy of Meredith Gaudreau/Instagram Although Johnny Gaudreau loved the game of hockey, his family always came first. Off the ice, the NHL player enjoyed spending quality time with his wife, Meredith, and their two children, Noa and Johnny. Tragedy struck the Gaudreau family, however, when Johnny and his younger brother, Matthew Gaudreau, were killed while […]
Meredith announced at Johnny and her brother-in-law Matthew’s funeral in September 2024 that she was pregnant with baby No. 3. She gave birth to son Carter in April 2025.
“Our third baby is here!” Meredith wrote via Instagram, announcing Carter’s arrival. “I love you so much my baby! We are going to have so much fun. I can’t wait to give you the best life, my special boy forever. John, thank you for giving me our beautiful family. We love u, Daddy and miss you so much.”
John is also survived by his parents and two sisters. Matthew, who died at 29, was married to wife Madeline Gaudreau, who gave birth to son Tripp after the brothers’ deaths.
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