Editor’s Note: “Tis the Season: The Holidays on Screen” celebrates the most beloved holiday films and television specials. The special airs Sunday, November 27 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CNN.
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One of the most beloved modern Christmas classics is turning 20 next year, and to mark the occasion, cast members from the landmark 2003 romantic comedy “Love Actually” are reuniting for a TV special to air on ABC next week, the network announced Tuesday.
Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Emma Thompson, Bill Nighy and Thomas Brodie-Sangster are taking part in the special, along with the film’s writer-director Richard Curtis.
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In a promotional clip shared by ABC program “20/20” on Twitter, Diane Sawyer asks the cast to fill in the sentence, “Love actually is…,” to which Grant drolly answers, “Dead!”
According to ABC, the special will look at how the film successfully corralled a diverse ensemble to create a charming and winsome film examining various loving relationships during a frantic month leading up to Christmas in London, England, going on to become a beloved holiday tradition around the world.
The program, which comes a little early, considering the film was released on November 6, 2003, will also look at how the COVID-19 pandemic changed the ways people interact, love and connect, and the all-important need for kindness in families and communities.
The new reunion is not the first time the actors from “Love Actually” – who also include Keira Knightley, Liam Neeson and Colin Firth – have come together again.
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In 2017, a short sequel to the film was produced for NBC in honor of Red Nose Day, a charity for children in need created by Curtis.
“The Laughter & Secrets of ‘Love Actually’: 20 Years Later – A Diane Sawyer Special” airs Nov. 29 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
Given the Mad Max franchise’s influence on the pop culture landscape since it kicked off in 1979, it’s easy to call any post-apocalyptic road thriller set in the Australian Outback a cheap imitation. The way I’ve made peace with that kind of assessment is by appreciating the fact that Mad Max created its own distinct genre, where there’s plenty of room for filmmakers to work out similar concepts while still offering their own take. 2014’s The Rover, written and directed by David Michôd, is a shining example of using the punishing Australian desert as a backdrop to tell his story about a society well into its ongoing collapse.
With Guy Pearce leading the charge with support from Robert Pattinson, The Rover is a violent journey across barren landscapes inhabited by people who’ve been forgotten by the rest of the world. It’s a lawless land, but there are still clear power structures at play. Watching those structures slowly fall apart makes for a satisfying watch because society collapsed recently enough for people to remember the before times, but not so recently that they aren’t aware of where things are heading.
A Rampage For A Stolen Car
Before The Rover’s conflict is properly established, we’re introduced to Archie (David Field), Caleb (Tawanda Manyimo), and Henry (Scoot McNairy). They’re fleeing a robbery, and with them is Rey (Robert Pattinson), Henry’s younger brother. Having been injured during the robbery, Rey is kicked out of the vehicle and left for dead. During the scuffle, their car crashes, prompting them to steal a new getaway vehicle.
Unfortunately for the gang, they stole a car belonging to a nomadic loner named Eric (Guy Pearce). Having lived through society’s initial collapse roughly 10 years earlier, which resulted in the loss of his family and his farm, Eric doesn’t take too kindly to the thieves and immediately sets out to hunt them down, obstacles be damned. Stumbling upon a gravely injured Rey, who he knows was at the very least indirectly responsible for his car getting stolen, Eric brings him to a doctor to nurse him back to health before grilling him on his brother’s whereabouts.
Along the way, Eric has violent encounters with a gun-dealing dwarf operating out of an opium den, traveling circus members, and what’s left of the Australian Army, who still try to exert power over the country’s citizens despite lacking the firepower they once had. Rey, dragged along and not fully himself due to his injuries, proves to be more burden than leverage, complicating matters for Eric, who just wants to retrieve his car and get back to being a miserable drunk wandering through the wasteland.
A Madmaxian Action Flick That Stands On Its Own
While the obvious Mad Max setup can be found in The Rover, it never once feels like a carbon copy of the franchise that inspired it. We’ve got the Australian desert, car chases, and showdowns packed with firepower, but given how wide-reaching the lore is in Mad Max, there’s plenty of room for films like The Rover to occupy similar thematic territory while traveling a completely different road. Using that template as a jumping-off point, The Rover tells a more personal story about loss and revenge that would work just as well in any other setting.
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Michôd has gone on record about the similarities, stating, “You put cars in the desert in Australia and people are going to think of Mad Max, and with all due respect to that film, I think The Rover is going to be way more chillingly authentic and menacing.” He’s not wrong in that assessment because there are no nitro trucks and masked marauders here. There’s no sprawling folklore that feels almost biblical. Instead, we get a raw glimpse of humanity barely hanging on by a thread, and we witness the continued collapse of society while it’s still actively happening.
As of this writing, The Rover is streaming on Netflix.
Ari Fletcher and Moneybagg Yo have been unbothered and in love. From luxury car gifts to RIAA plaques, the couple hasn’t missed a moment to celebrate each other loudly and proudly on social media. And while they continue to flex their unbreakable bond, the internet has still found its way into the mix.
Ari Pens A Sweet Message To Her Mannnnn Moneybagg Yo
On Monday, Feb. 23, Ari took to Instagram with a heartfelt message for her man, Moneybagg Yo. On her Story, she shared a photo of her hand showing off a tattoo of his legal first name, “Demario,” while a massive diamond sparkled on her ring finger.
With ‘My Truth’ by India Arie playing in the background, she wrote, “You show me LOVE, real love. Unconditional forever love. I’ll always follow your lead because you are a true leader and I know greatness comes with wherever you decide to go. I would choose life with you over and over again in any life.”
Moneybagg later reportedly responded via his Instagram Story, writing, “Foreva Us my Zawja 🤞🏾 #TheUnbreakables”
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Social Media Reacts
Ari’s sweet message to Moneybagg Yo sparked mixed reactions in The Shade Room’s comments. While some fans thought the tattoo and tribute were cute, others brought up past drama in their relationship. Specifically, a few critics mentioned recent rumors linking Ari to Lil Baby, while others suggested the latest gestures were related to her ex, G Herbo, and his engagement to Taina Williams. However, Ari’s supporters quickly defended her, saying they love the bond she shares with Moneybagg and believe the couple is genuinely happy.
Instagram user @straightouttachat wrote, “She love that man down, baby! ❤️❤️”
Instagram user @deestackss added, “The D being a heart is soooo cute”
While Instagram user @pay.r0ll wrote, “I love them but I know somebody bout to have something negative to say about this too”
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Instagram user @ell. plaga wrote, “After Jayda exposed her for f**** Baby now she loves him again😂😂😂”
Instagram user @m.armanij added. “Idk sista i love you but since taina got engaged sis you been showing bag off more than usual 👀😭”
While Instagram user @addictedtoleelee wrote, “Peep that big ass ring too thangyaaaa 👏🏾 👏🏾 “
Instagram user @mickipeezie wrote, “Lots of haters in the comments, to be young, rich and in love is 🔥 😍
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Instagram user @azraa2.0 wrote. “I can’t wait to be this in love wrote 😍 🔥l
While Instagram user @its.dreanaaa wrote, “but why do we have to put people’s names on our bodies like they own us?? like there are so many other ways to show love”
Love And Going RIAA Gold
A few months ago, rapper Moneybagg Yo celebrated a major milestone after earning 25 new gold. Reflecting on the achievement, he wrote:
“So All My Support, Die Hards and Certified We Got #25 Mo Trophies In Today. We Like 75 Plaques In! This History Coming From Where I Came From! Now Watch How We Shake Sht Up With This New Work. #ForevaHoldYourPeace Album Soon!”
While the Memphis rapper was in a celebratory mood, Ari made sure to show love and support for her partner. Among the plaques was also the couple’s record, ‘Brain Dead,’ which earned a gold RIAA certification. The 2020 record, featured on ‘Code Red,’ the joint project with Blac Youngsta, captures the emotional ups and downs of a relationship and even includes a voicemail from Ari. Celebrating the plaque, Ari wrote: “Not I got my first plaque @moneybaggyo. I’m so proud of you and all of your success. Not just witnessing it but being apart of it.”
Hilary Duff gave her fans chills when she debuted her comeback earlier this year. Now, just days into releasing her first album in a decade, the pop star is grieving the loss of a dear person from her childhood. On Monday (Feb. 23), she shared two throwback photos and a caption honoring Robert Carradine. Fans of Disney in the 2000s will remember him as her TV dad on the hit show, ‘Lizzie McGuire.’ Carradine’s family confirmed on Monday that he died at age 71.
In a Tuesday statement, Robert Carradine’s family said he lived with bipolar disorder for two decades. His brother, Keith Carradine, told Deadline that Carradine died by suicide. The actor was the youngest of his prolific Hollywood family. His biggest hit was the 1984 comedy ‘Revenge of the Nerds,’ but many millennials remember him for his role as Lizzie McGuire’s dad on Disney Channel.
“We want people to know it, and there is no shame in it,” Keith Carradine told Deadline. “It is an illness that got the best of him, and I want to celebrate him for his struggle with it, and celebrate his beautiful soul. He was profoundly gifted, and we will miss him every day.”
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988.
Known for both his film and television work, Robert Carradine worked steadily in the industry for over 40 years, starting in the ’70s. Despite his work with top-tier directors, he never gained the worldwide recognition of his more famous brothers Keith Carradine and the late David Carradine.
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Hilary Duff Shares Touching Message About ‘Lizzie McGuire’ Dad
As mentioned, in the 2000s, Robert Carradine picked up a new generation of fans with the character, Sam McGuire. He played a corny but extremely loving dad to Lizzie, played by Hilary Duff, and a younger son. His character was married to Jo McGuire, played by Hallie Todd. On Monday, Hilary opened about how Robert Carradine and Hallie made her feel protected growing up on set. Her Instagram post included two photos with Robert, a solo shot and another of the McGuire family.
“This one hurts. It’s really hard to face this reality about an old friend. There was so much warmth in the McGuire family and I always felt so cared for by my on-screen parents. I’ll be forever grateful for that. I’m deeply sad to learn Bobby was suffering. My heart aches for him , his family, and everyone who loved him. 💔”
Robert Carradine’s Real-Life Daughter Shares Memories
Robert’s survivors include his three children, actor Ever Carradine, Marika Reed Carradine and Ian Alexander Carradine. On Monday, Ever confirmed her dad’s death in a lengthy Instagram caption about his love as a single parent. She was born in 1974 to Robert and Susan Synder.
“Whenever anyone asks me how I turned out so normal, I always tell them it’s because of my dad. I knew my dad loved me, I knew it deep in my bones, and I always knew he had my back,” Ever Carradine wrote on Instagram. “I think it’s partly because we basically grew up together. Twenty years age difference really isn’t that much, and while I never ever thought of him as a sibling, I did always think of him as my partner. We were in it together.”
In 1990, Robert Carradine married Edith Mani, whom he had his middle and youngest child with. After more than 25 years of marriage, they divorced following a 2015 car crash in Colorado. In her divorce documents, she claimed he admitted to her and their two kids that he “deliberately drove into the truck” to kill them both, per TMZ. She alleged he had been depressed after his brother, David, died by hanging in 2009. At the time, she had requested possession of his 17 guns out of fear he might hurt himself. They settled and finalized their split in 2018, per The Blast. He reportedly was allowed to keep his gun collection amid other possessions.
Lisa Rinna is finally addressing one of the longest-running rumors surrounding her marriage, and she’s making her stance crystal clear. In her new book, “You Better Believe I’m Gonna Talk About It,” the former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star opens up about speculation surrounding her husband Harry Hamlin’s sexuality, something she says has followed him for decades. Rinna not only defends her husband but also reflects on how Hollywood, reality TV, and his early career choices contributed to the chatter. Her comments come amid renewed headlines about the couple and Lisa Rinna’s personal life, including a recent incident that reportedly left her concerned for her own well-being.
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Lisa Rinna Directly Addresses Rumors About Harry Hamlin
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Lisa Rinna didn’t mince words when discussing speculation about her husband of nearly three decades. In her book, she makes it clear she wants to put the rumors to rest once and for all. “Let’s just clear this up one last time, once and for all: Harry’s heterosexual,” the Bravo alum wrote. “He is not a gay man in any way, shape or form, not that there’s anything wrong with that,” she continued.
Rinna explained that she didn’t even become aware of the rumors until she joined “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” in 2014, suggesting the speculation intensified once her personal life became part of reality television storylines. “I just figured b-tches will say anything to get my hackles up, so it never concerned me,” she added. “My reaction was always more, ‘why you mad, boo?’”
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Lisa Rinna Says Reality TV Culture Played A Role
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According to Lisa Rinna, speculation about spouses was common during her time on the Bravo series. She claimed that “every husband’s sexuality was questioned at some point on that show.”
“When you’re a good-looking man in Hollywood with a good sense of style, that adds up to ‘is he gay?’” Rinna questioned.
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Harry Hamlin’s Career Choice Sparked Early Speculation
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Lisa Rinna also pointed to a specific moment in Hamlin’s career that she believes fueled rumors for decades: his role in the 1982 film “Making Love.” In the Arthur Hiller-directed movie, Hamlin portrayed Bart McGuire, an openly gay man involved in a relationship with a married heterosexual character, a storyline considered groundbreaking at the time.
“Mainstream films about gay men are still rare today, but back then it was unheard of,” Rinna wrote. “He does what rings true to him. It was something that he felt was absolutely necessary to do. Harry made a brave decision, and it bit him in the a-s.”
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She claimed the decision had long-term professional consequences, alleging Hamlin was “blacklisted for several years afterward,” and noting it took him decades before landing a major studio film again with 2023’s “80 for Brady.” “To this day, Harry says he would do ‘Making Love’ all over again because it was so impactful,” Rina wrote. “Harry changed so many people’s lives, and that’s why he wouldn’t have it any other way.”
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Marriage Built On Trust And Longevity
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Despite years of rumors, Lisa Rinna says their relationship has remained strong and largely unaffected by outside speculation. The couple married in 1997 and later welcomed daughters Delilah Belle and Amelia Gray.
Hamlin was previously married to Laura Johnson and Nicollette Sheridan before meeting Rinna. She emphasized the trust they share, explaining she doesn’t worry about infidelity. “I would be shocked if I ever found out he was having an affair,” Rinna said.
The actress has also spoken openly about their intimacy, previously revealing that while their sex life has evolved over time, it remains fulfilling.
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Recent Headlines Surround Lisa Rinna’s Personal Life
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According to reports, a source claimed Rinna’s co-star Colton Underwood noticed she appeared unusually intoxicated during the event. The source alleged Underwood became concerned because he knew she typically doesn’t drink heavily, and he reportedly alerted her team. Rinna was then removed from the party shortly afterward, though details surrounding the situation remain unclear.
“You Better Believe I’m Gonna Talk About It” is out now wherever books are sold.
Kendall Jenner’s booked, busy, and still finding time to break the internet … and if you thought her shoots couldn’t get any hotter, Vogue France says Hold My Croissant!
The supermodel snagged the cover and a full spread to match — and let’s just say the looks are working overtime … ’cause we’re talking seriously risqué snaps that put those supermodel stats to very good use.
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You’ve gotta see these pics — the stylist clearly clocked in early and left late, dressing Kendall in a lineup of daring cut-out numbers, some so microscopic they showed off plenty of underboob.
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Cropped fits, unbuttoned shirts, smoldering poses … Kendall was absolutely giving supermodel supremacy and reminding everyone why she’s in a league of her own.
Karlissa Saffold Harvey weighs in as folks think Blueface shaded Chrisean Rock, while speaking on how he and Nevaeh Akira plan to have a “great, healthy pregnancy.”
Blueface Speaks On How He & Nevaeh Akira Plan To Have A “Great, Healthy Pregnancy”
On the evening of Monday, February 23, Instagram user @livebitez shared footage from what appears to be a recent livestream of Blueface’s. Furthermore, during the session, Blue explained that he’s “focused on one thing.”
“That’s a great, healthy pregnancy, a great, healthy baby,” he said. “My pregnant baby momma, she will not be in the club. She will not be partying, drinking, or smoking — or doing any of that stuff. For nine months. That’s the main goal.”
To note, Nevaeh Akira appeared to be by his side and in agreement with his sentiments.
Peep the clip below.
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Karlissa Saffold Harvey Weighs In As Folks Think He Shaded Chrisean Rock
Social media users reacted to Blueface’s words in @livebitez’s comment section. Some appeared to think he was throwing shade at Chrisean Rock, with whom he shares his third child, Chrisean Jr.
Instagram user @shaniseeeeeeee wrote, “He can’t shade someone who he condoned…”
While Instagram user @mama_of_superheroes added, “He so bitter that Chrisean finally snapped out of it and got some sense now lol”
Instagram user @bigh_75 wrote, “You so in love with Chrisean that you can’t keep her name out your mouth 👄 lol 😂”
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While Instagram user @everybodycallsmeb added, “He’s trying to get a response from Chrisean ….”
Instagram user @scorpio_arrangements3010 wrote, “You sat there and watched Chrisean do it…”
While Instagram user @kr1styl3 added, “He in love with Chrisean. He wants her attention so bad. Every few days he does something so damn spiteful”
Instagram user @honeyboochile1 wrote, “He was shading chrisean bc he also shaded chrisean and jayden when he said this is gonna be his baddest babymama.Im happy he think that of lil king!!!Is crazy he gotta tear them down just to build her up”
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While Instagram user @pinknlovelyisstill_fat_ugly added, “That’s not shade when it’s the truth”
Instagram user @supermom.to.5 wrote, “don’t nothing good come to nobody that speaks bad on this girl that’s all ima say.”
While Instagram user @aisha_freckles added, “Doesn’t sound like he’s shading Rock, in order to have a healthy pregnancy and baby the woman shouldn’t be doing things to put herself at risk.”
Instagram user @lynetteh64 wrote, “The truth can never be a diss tho! 🥴🤷🏽♀️”
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Furthermore, Karlissa Saffold Harvey weighed in, writing:
“Johnathan is suffering from not being able to see his son and the different things that have been reported to him daily is overwhelming. Y’all literally send us videos talking about seizures and some more stuff. He was in denial and now he knows nothing and doesn’t have a relationship with the baby. He’s probably the only father who would allow her to leave the baby and not even look for her. These same people who talking all this s**t didn’t even know her and promoted for her to drink and smoke while pregnant because y’all did. I blame her fans and keep him in prayer. 🙏🏾”
More On Blueface & Nevaeh Akira’s Pregnancy
As The Shade Room previously reported, Blueface and Nevaeh Akira announced their pregnancy during a livestream on Sunday, February 22. Subsequently, that same evening, Karlissa Saffold Harvey reacted by taking to social media to write, “Kids are a blessing if he happy I’m happy [heart hands emoji] congratulations to them both and may God bless the baby.”
On Monday, February 24, Nevaeh Akira took to her social media to express her excitement for her and Blue’s upcoming chapter. As The Shade Room previously reported, Akira wrote about being “overly in love” with Blue and expressed her excitement about her son having a sibling.
In addition to his unborn baby with Akira and son with Chrisean Rock, Blue also shares two children with Jaidyn Alexis. On Monday evening, she broke her silence and addressed how she feels about his new addition.
Maia Mitchell has already worked with Hannah Dodd so what are the chances she could join her hit Netflix series Bridgerton?
“Oh my God, why not? I’ll ask Hannah. I’ll text her now,” Mitchell exclusively told Us Weekly while promoting season 2 of Hulu’s The Artful Dodger. “I don’t think my contract would allow me to work with Netflix right now on a show but maybe after we get done with The Artful Dodger.”
Mitchell noted that she currently has her “hands full” playing Lady Belle. She didn’t rule it out though considering the amount of seasons still yet to air.
Based on Julia Quinn’s book series, each season of Bridgerton focuses on a different member of the titular family as they attempt to find love in 19th-century London. The Netflix show is expected to have eight seasons based on the eight novels written by Quinn about each Bridgerton sibling.
As soon as Netflix debuted Bridgerton, fans became invested in the stories still yet to be told. Based on Julia Quinn‘s novels of the same name, the series began with the love story of Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor) and Simon Basset (Regé-Jean Page). Season 2 of Bridgerton told the story of Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey) […]
Dodd, for her part, plays Francesca and is expected to lead either season 5 or 6. Mitchell, meanwhile, just returned to Hulu after a lengthy hiatus between seasons.
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“It was a long painstaking wait to hear [about a season 2], so we are very happy to be back,” Mitchell noted to Us. “In terms of jumping back into character, the break was good. It’s always nerve-wracking going back. But it’s so easy with our sets and in our costumes, you just really do melt right into the world. But the break was good because I would have needed that circuit break to find a different tone in her, to do some different prep. Especially with the dialect coaches, I was vocally dropping her a little lower and there was a slightly different physicality. Hopefully we get a season 3, and hopefully the break isn’t as long.”
“At the end of 2021, I had written a list of things I was manifesting. It was a job that was shot in Australia, a period drama and it was a woman who was playing a feminist and claiming her power. That is literally The Artful Dodger for me. So it is a dream job,” she gushed. “And to be able to work at home is fantastic. It’s less of a flight to visit family and our crew is so amazing. I’ve now shot a couple projects in Australia in the last few years, since I’ve moved home — and also overseas — and I can say for sure that it’s the best and most elevated work that I’ve been able to do.”
She concluded: “It’s because of the crew and everyone behind the camera and the cast. We have such immense talent here and I’m so excited that the world is becoming privy to it because we’ve known it. We’ve always made such fantastic shows but they have this Aussie tone with a gritty drama. Now we’re expanding that and we’ve got these massive period dramas with crazy budgets. It’s really fun to be a part of that kind of new moment in Aussie film and TV. So I couldn’t be more stoked and I would just work in Australia with Aussie crew for the rest of my career if I could. It’s the best.”
Looking ahead, Mitchell expressed hope she would get to return to film more.
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“There’s a lot [more story] to tell,” Mitchell shared. “It’s such a massive show with so many characters and so many plots happening all at once.”
The actress noted that there is “a lot of opportunity” for “way more character development” in the future, adding, “With Belle and Jack, it is seeing what domestic life could look like. I don’t know how they pull that off. I don’t see them ever being settled but seeing what that looks like and seeing them actualize their relationship.”
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Bridgerton returns with the second part of season 4 on Thursday, February 26. The Artful Dodger is currently streaming on Hulu.
Jennifer Garner is flaunting her assets in a new magazine spread for Flaunt … while also getting real about her relationship with her ex-husband, Ben Affleck.
The actress looks absolutely stunning in her brown leather Givenchy dress during a recent photoshoot and interview with a Flaunt reporter, whose cover story about the star was published Monday.
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For the shoot, Jennifer wore several other outfits, including Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello — a gray pantsuit and a large brown leather jacket over a white knotted shirt with brown pants.
In the interview, Jennifer talked generally about her long relationship that eventually went sour with Ben — something she doesn’t normally do. The two got married in 2005, but later divorced in 2018.
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Now, Jen says she wants to help women who have gone through similar experiences, telling the Flaunt reporter … “Time has passed, and other women are going through really hard seasons in their lives, and I think it’s helpful to know that time will go on and you will get to the other side.”
The actress also says she was “in the middle of something for a really long time, and it didn’t make sense,” but “there was no way to talk about it, and it’s certainly not my place to talk about him or his experience or anything he’s gone through, or my children or their experience.” Ben and Jen share three kids — Violet, 20, Finn, 17, and Samuel, 12.
Jen went on to say she feels “lighter and happier and more myself [than I have] in a really long time, and I think that’s important to know because I really felt like, ‘Oh my gosh, has this family shake up — has it changed me forever?’”
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She notes, “When you’re many years into something, you think, ‘I don’t know how it’s gonna pass.’”
The death of Robert Carradine has shocked Hollywood … but TMZ has learned there was a troubling sign on his final film project, according to one of his most recent colleagues.
Connie Lamothe, director of “The Driver” — AKA “Driving into Darkness” — tells TMZ … she’s shocked and devastated about “Bobby’s” death … but she knew there was something wrong when he went MIA from her film prior to the table read this week.
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Everything was finally back on track and moving along well after the project got derailed by the pandemic … but then in January, Connie tells us David went radio silent. Producers had no idea where he was or what was going on. They were worried … but a friend who is also in the cast knew of his struggles with mental health. So, they decided to give him some space … and hoped he would return.
Robert had been super excited for the project — a crime drama in which he was playing a mob boss, a leading role — Connie says, noting the actor wanted to show he could do more than comedy and westerns.
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Recalling their time together during pre-production, Connie says David was delightful and always cheerful when they spoke — including when she joked with him about cutting his hair and shaving off his beard for the role.
Robert was 71.
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RIP
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
When The Princess Bride was released in 1987, it quietly rewrote the rules of romantic fantasy. It proved that a love story could be sweeping without being saccharine, ironic without being cynical, and adventurous without losing emotional sincerity. Since then, filmmakers have chased that same 1980s alchemy—the delicate balance of magic, humor, danger, and devotion. And luckily, some have found it.
Many would argue that the best romantic fantasy films released in its wake understand one crucial thing: spectacle alone is not enough. Whether told through animated kingdoms, time-traveling meet-cutes, or sky-bound ships, these stories endure because they treat love as transformative. They remind us that romance, at its best, feels both impossible and inevitable (like destiny, but still chosen). And in a genre built on magic, that sincerity is the most powerful spell of all.
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8
‘Tangled’ (2010)
Flynn Rider and Rapunzel hold hands during a lantern festival in TangledImage via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
After a magical flower grants her healing powers, baby Princess Rapunzel is stolen from the palace by the vain and manipulative Mother Gothel (Donna Murphy), who locks her away in a hidden tower for 18 years. Now, on the brink of adulthood, Rapunzel (Mandy Moore) finally seizes her chance at freedom when charming thief, Flynn Rider (Zachery Levi), stumbles into her tower, and promises to escort her to see the floating lanterns she’s long dreamed of.
Tangledfeels like a direct descendant of The Princess Bride in the best way: it gives us swashbuckling adventure, razor-sharp banter, and a romance that builds through shared danger. The lantern sequence alone solidifies itself in the Disney hall of fame as it’s not only visually stunning, but emotionally significant as it showcases a true moment of vulnerability. Throughout the film, Flynn’s bravado softens, Rapunzel finds her courage, and the fairy-tale becomes deeply human. It’s a classic romance polished with modern wit, and a true underrated addition to Disney’s animated collection.
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7
‘Edward Scissorhands’ (1990)
Johnny Depp and WInona Ryder as Kim and Edward in Edward Scissorhands hugging.Image via 20th Century Studios
In a pastel suburban town, an unfinished artificial man named Edward (Johnny Depp) is discovered living alone in a gothic mansion. Taken in by a well-meaning family, Edward struggles to adapt to suburban life, all the while forming a tender connection with their daughter, Kim (Winona Ryder). Unfortunately for him, his scissor-bladed hands and gentle strangeness quickly make him both a fascination and target to others.
Tim Burton’s melancholic masterpiece transforms a simple love story into something hauntingly tragic. Like in The Princess Bride, Edward and Kim’s romance is defined by distance—physical, emotional, and societal. It’s a story about loving someone you can never quite hold. However, where many fantasy romances promise happily-ever-afters, Edward Scissorhandslingers in the longing. Its bittersweet devotion, quiet sacrifice, and gothic atmosphere give it the emotional weight of a modern myth made legendary in the 90s.
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6
‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ (2004)
Howl and Sophie embracing in Howl’s Moving Castle.Image via Studio Ghibli
When Sophie (Chieko Baishô), a shy young woman working in her family’s hat shop, is cursed by a jealous witch and transformed into an elderly woman, she has no means to tell anyone of her plight. So, seeking a way to break the spell, she finds refuge in the magical, ever-shifting castle of the mysterious wizard Howl (Takuya Kimura). But as war looms and curses intertwine, Sophie and Howl slowly unravel each other’s defenses.
From the brilliant minds at Studio Ghibli and famed director Hayao Miyazaki, this romance is whimsical, strange, and yet still profoundly tender. Sophie learns confidence in a body she doesn’t recognize, while Howl learns bravery in a world he’s been avoiding. Together, their love unfolds through quiet acts of protection rather than grand speeches. In many ways, the magic externalizes their insecurities, making their emotional growth feel even more profound. Howl’s Moving Castle is fantasy at its most poetic.
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5
‘Big Fish’ (2003)
Edward Bloom (Ewan McGregor) in a flower field in Big Fish.Image via Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group
As Edward Bloom (Albert Finney) nears the end of his life, his estranged son Will (Billy Crudup) attempts to separate fact from fiction in the fantastical stories his father has told for years—those being tales of witches, giants, mermaids, and impossible adventures. Threaded through every outlandish anecdote, however, is Edward’s unwavering devotion to his wife, Sandra (Jessica Lange), whom he claims to have loved from the very first moment he saw her.
While Big Fishoperates as a father-son drama, its most enduring thread is romantic devotion. Edward’s love story unfolds like folklore—exaggerated, stylized, larger than life—yet grounded in something deeply sincere. Whether every detail happened exactly as told almost becomes irrelevant. What matters is that Edward’s love for Sandra feels mythic in its consistency. For many, this movie highlights how romance isn’t just about how love begins, but how it is remembered and retold. And in that sense, it’s one of the grandest love stories of all.
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4
‘Enchanted’ (2007)
Prince Edward (James Marsden) kneeling and looking up at Giselle (Amy Adams) in EnchantedImage via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
When animated fairy tale princess Giselle (Amy Adams) is banished by an evil queen into live-action modern-day New York City, she finds herself navigating a world without talking animals or instant happily-ever-afters. Taken in by pragmatic divorce lawyer Robert (Patrick Dempsey) after an accidental stumble, Giselle’s unwavering optimism begins to disrupt his carefully ordered life—especially when people (and creatures) from her world begin to creep in.
There’s no doubt that Enchantedthrives on its playful collision between sincerity and skepticism. Giselle’s belief in true love initially seems naive, but the film gradually proves that romance can survive even outside storybook rules. The love that develops between Giselle and Robert surely isn’t instant magic—instead, it’s built through partnership and growth. By lovingly poking fun at classic tropes while still embracing them, the film becomes both parody and love letter to the genre.
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3
‘Shrek 2’ (2004)
Shrek and Fiona meeting the King and Queen of Far Far AwayImage via DreamWorks Pictures
After returning from their honeymoon, Shrek (Mike Myers) and Fiona (Cameron Diaz) are invited to return to the Kingdom of Far Far Away to meet her royal parents. The only problem: they don’t know that she’s married to an ogre, nor that she’s fully become one. Throw in a scheming Fairy Godmother (Jennifer Saunders), a swoon-worthy (and deeply smarmy) Prince Charming (Rupert Everett), and one unforgettable potion mishap, and you have a sequel that goes bigger in every possible way.
Underneath the meme-worthy one-liners and iconic needle drops lies a romance that feels shockingly grounded. Indeed, Shrek 2 dares to ask whether love should be reshaped to meet the world’s expectations—or whether the world should adjust instead. Fiona choosing Shrek again and again, even when offered conventionally “perfect” versions and alternatives, makes their relationship one of the most affirming in animated history. There’s no doubt that it’s truly one of the best movies (and sequels) to ever be made.
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2
‘About Time’ (2013)
Mary (Rachel McAdams) and Tim (Domhnall Gleeson) laughing under an umbrella in the rain in About Time.Image via Universal Pictures
When Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson) learns from his father that the men in his family have the ability to travel through time, he decides to use his newfound ability to improve his life—starting with finding love. Lucky for him, after a series of awkward first encounters, Tim finally meets Mary (Rachel McAdams), and their relationship unfolds with a mixture of do-overs, missteps, and small triumphs.
Directed by Richard Curtis, About Time transforms a high-concept premise into something incredibly intimate. In this world, time travel isn’t about spectacle, but about presence. Tim slowly realizes that perfection isn’t the goal—appreciation is, leaving the fantasy element to reinforce the film’s central truth: love lives in the ordinary days, messy conversations, and feeling moments you can’t rewind forever. It truly is romance in the most grounded way possible.
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1
‘Stardust’ (2007)
Claire Danes as Yvaine and Charlie Cox as Tristan try to escape a Gothic mansion in Stardust.Image via Paramount Pictures
In the quiet village of Wall, Tristan Thorn (Charlie Cox) promises the woman he adores that he will retrieve a fallen star for her birthday. Needing to cross into a magical realm, Tristan soon discovers that the star is not a stone at all, but a woman named Yvaine (Claire Danes). But as dangerous forces close in, a reluctant partnership develops, alongside an unexpected love story.
Based on the famed Neil Gaiman novel, Stardusteasily earns the crown in this list as it most faithfully channels the spirit of the grand, unabashed romantic fantasy. Between sword fights, sky pirates, wicked witches, and declarations that make your heart lurch—it never undercuts its own sincerity. Tristan begins the film by chasing the fantasy of love and ends it by choosing real partnership, while Yvaine proves she’s not a mere prize to be won, but a force in her own right. It’s funny, bold, and deliciously ridiculous in the best way. For any Gen Z, this is our Princess Bride.
