HBO’s Harry Potter series may still be months away from introducing audiences to its new Golden Trio, but work on the show’s second season is already gathering momentum. With production expected to begin before the end of the month, the young cast is preparing to return to Hogwarts—and one of its biggest stars has just given fans an early glimpse of what’s to come.

Arabella Stanton, who’s taking on Emma Watson‘s role of Hermione Granger in the new adaptation, has taken to Instagram to show off what she’s describing as a “fresh new look ahead of Season 2”, so it looks like she’s preparing for an imminent return to Hogwarts to film Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

The post arrives just days after reports that HBO is wasting no time with the next chapter of the Wizarding World. According to ProductionList.com, Season 2 is currently scheduled to begin filming in August, despite Season 1 not premiering until Christmas Day, December 25, on HBO Max, which is a seriously aggressive turnaround but, as has been noted in the past, the cast need to shoot while they’re young because we can’t have a 33 year old Ron going for a pint before his next Defence Against the Dark Arts lesson.

Who Stars in ‘Harry Potter’?

Season 2 is adapting J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, following Harry’s second year at Hogwarts as mysterious attacks begin petrifying students throughout the castle. The novel introduces characters including Dobby, Gilderoy Lockhart and Moaning Myrtle, while also expanding the role of Lucius Malfoy, who will already have been introduced during the first season.

The cast of Harry Potter includes Dominic McLaughlin (Grow) as Harry Potter, Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley, John Lithgow (Conclave) as Albus Dumbledore, Nick Frost (Hot Fuzz) as Hagrid, Janet McTeer(Ozark) as Professor McGonagall, and Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You) as Severus Snape.

Other Hogwarts students include Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom, Leo Earley as Seamus Finnigan, Alessia Leoni as Parvati Patil, Sienna Moosah as Lavender Brown, and Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley. Additional cast members include Bel Powley as Petunia Dursley, Daniel Rigby as Vernon Dursley, Bertie Carvel as Cornelius Fudge, Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch, Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell, Louise Brealey as Madam Hooch, and Leigh Gill as Griphook.

Harry Potter will premiere on Christmas Day 2026 on HBO Max.

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Release Date

2026 – 2026

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Showrunner

Francisca Gardiner

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Directors

Mark Mylod

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In case you didn’t get the memo, white sneakers are ‘out’ and chic suede sneakers are ‘in.’ With fall just around the corner, these stylish seasonal shoes add instant polish with its soft texture, rich color and designer‑coded vibe. If you want to incorporate quiet-luxury vibes and rich-mom style into your fall wardrobe, these elevated suede sneakers are an effortless way to do so.

While suede might have a reputation for being insanely pricey, we did some digging and found 13 expensive-looking sneakers below, starting at $27. Trust Us, everyone who sees these shoes will think you’re wearing a high-end designer pair. We don’t blame them. Grab these suede sneakers from Puma, Vans, Quince and more  to get that sleek, smooth style that’s perfect for fall.

13 Expensive-Looking Suede Sneakers For Fall

1. Our Favorite: Genuine suede sneakers for $60? Unheard of. These lightweight, cushy suede sneakers earn rave reviews for everything from the roomy toe box, stylish design and versatility.

2. Easy-On: Not only do these suede slip-ons deliver top-tier comfort, they also feature a cozy sherpa lining for warmth. This shoe staple is one you’ll reach for daily due to its quietly elevated finish.

3. Sporty Chic: You can’t go wrong with a classic Puma suede sneaker. The fabric and the brand go hand-in-hand, delivering that sleek, heritage‑sport vibe that also looks expensive.

4. Trusted Brand: Who knew Birkenstock also made sleek suede sneakers. Even better, they deliver the same comfort and durability as their classic sandals, wrapped in a minimalist, expensive-looking silhouette.

5. Throwback Style: We’re getting varsity‑babe vibes from this platform suede sneaker. Instead of an all‑over suede finish, the vintage‑style shoe features suede panels to break up the texture and create a retro look.

Related: Nordstrom‘s New Fall-Coded Sweater Drop Is Giving Major Rich Mom Vibes

While I wish that summer would last forever, I must admit that I’m extremely excited for fall fashion. Nordstrom apparently feels the same way. The retailer couldn’t wait until the official end of summer to start adding some of the most gorgeous sweaters I’ve ever seen on the site, and these 15 are my favorite. […]

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6. Luxe for Less: Affordable luxury atelier Quince has a sleek $94 Italian suede sneaker. The best part is how closely it mirrors Tory Burch’s luxe suede styles, however, this pair has the added bonus of Ortholite comfort.

7. Feminine Fashion: For a more feminine take on sneakers, rock these suede Mary Jane shoes. They’re just as chic styled with jeans as they are with breezy summer dresses.

8. Take It High: Should your aesthetic lean more street style, these suede high‑tops have you covered. They channel the same laid‑back, cushioned feel as Ugg’s famous Lomel sneaker, only at a budget‑friendly price.

9. Bright and Beautiful: Stand out from the monochrome masses in these Gola suede sneakers. Adorned in head-turning hues like bright pink, coral, light blue and sun yellow, they add energy to your expensive-looking style.

10. Affordable Pick: If you love suede but not the high price tag, consider these under‑$30 inspired sneakers. They’re sporty, polished and surprisingly luxe, which is why you’ll think they’re designer.

11. Statement Maker: Look like you have money to spend in these Madden Girl suede sneakers. Not only are they colorful, chic and coordinated, they’re majorly discounted.

12. Easy Wear: Quiet luxury is on full display in these suede mule sneakers. Adorned in a polished cream, these slip‑on shoes have a soft, elevated ease you can pair with anything from tailored denim to breezy maxis.

13. Trusty Fall Shoe: Simple but chic, these Keds suede sneakers are the very definition of an everyday shoe. Comfy, easy to style and endlessly versatile, they fit seamlessly into a pared‑down wardrobe.

Claressa Shields is locked in during this season of her life, no matter who or what the internet is chattin’ about. She recently announced her mindset on X amid online mentions of her boyfriend Papoose and his ex, Remy Ma. These mentions come after Remy appeared to name-drop Pap during a recent performance.

RELATED: Claressa Shields Corrects Interviewer After Question About Being In A Relationship With “Somebody’s Husband” (VIDEO)

Claressa Shields Tweets About A “Clout Chaser” & Being Locked In

As mentioned, the champion boxer took to X, formerly Twitter, early Monday (August 3) with four words and a laughing emoticon. She tweeted, “Ha another clout chaser” without any additional context.

Ha another clout chaser 😂

— Claressa Gwoat Shields (@Claressashields) August 3, 2026

A few hours later, Claressa circled back to X with another tweet. This time, she included a photo of herself laughing while wearing a stunning black, chiffon, floor-length robe. Her post said, “Unfazed in all aspects of my life. The big picture is real beautiful & I’m going to get there.”  

Unfazed in all aspects of my life. The big picture is real beautiful & I’m going to get there pic.twitter.com/N3RA6kp4Wv

— Claressa Gwoat Shields (@Claressashields) August 3, 2026

Less than an hour later, Claressa Shields circled back to explain where she’s at mentally ahead of her fight on August 15 against Kaye Scott. The champ explained how grounded she’s been feeling while in training camp. She made one thing clear: she’s enjoying her good life.

“In training camp my mind is open so wide, my relationship with God is so much closer and I hear him clearly. He exposes attacks and wickedness before it reaches me and gives me the calmness to deal with whatever it is. I’m enjoying the good life. So much peace & happiness.”

In training camp my mind is open so wide, my relationship with God is so much closer and I hear him clearly. He exposes attacks and wickedness before it reaches me and gives me the calmness to deal with whatever it is. I’m enjoying the good life. So much peace & happiness

— Claressa Gwoat Shields (@Claressashields) August 3, 2026

What Did Remy Ma Say About Papoose?

Again, looking at her online activity, Claressa Shields did not say whether her tweets were a direct response to a person or incident. However, fans are still drawing conclusions in her replies section. Some are pointing to Remy Ma appearing to shade her estranged husband, Papoose, by calling him out during Angie Martinez’s Summer BBQ. She performed her recent single, ‘W.Y.F.L.’, which fans had previously assumed was a diss towards Pap. In the track, she called out ghostwriting allegations that have surrounded their former working relationship for years. He’s also made that claim! But in her song, Remy Ma clarified she’s the only one pushing her pen before hopping in the booth.

During her performance at the bbq, she spiced up the lyrics by adding in Papoose’s name—a notable difference from the no-name dissing in ‘W.F.Y.L.’ She rapped, “You always acting like you helped. Pap, n***a, go help yourself.” He seemingly has not responded to the apparent call out.

Claressa Checks Interviewer Over “Somebody’s Husband” Comments 

Like Claressa Shields’ tweets, it’s unclear what prompted Remy Ma to name-drop Papoose during her bbq performance. However, we know that ahead of that mic-drop moment, Claressa had a viral incident involving her man and his ex.

Last week, she stopped by a popular Atlanta radio station to promote her upcoming fight. Shifting the conversation Shields’ love life, an interviewer asked how long the boxer planned to “be in a relationship with somebody’s husband.” Claressa immediately addressed the use of words, saying “…That’s not somebody’s husband. Papoose filed for divorce.” She added that he filed for divorce because he’s “serious” about her. Additionally, she called out the alleged double standard, saying Remy Ma needs to also be addressed as his wife and held accountable “for what she’s doing in her life.” The boxer claimed Remy is also living her life, enjoying someone else other than Papoose.

“So don’t make it seem like it’s just one-sided. I’m not with somebody’s husband. I’m with the man who filed for divorce, who’s serious about me, who’s done things for me that I’ve done for him. So that’s not what it is.”

RELATED: Claressa Shields Appears To Advise Chrisean Rock To Stay Away From Blueface After They Link Up For Boxing Training (VIDEO)

Tyrese received a lot of love from his fans after he recently asked for prayers on Instagram. The ‘2 Fast 2 Furious’ star shared the video with a message asking for “genuine support.”

RELATED: You Okay?! Woman Falls OUT After Tyrese Kissed Her Forehead While Singing To Her (WATCH)

Tyrese Asks For Prayers

In a now-deleted Instagram post, Tyrese asked for prayers, love, and support from his fans. He also explained that he was feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, and stressed.

Text over the video read, “Stretch your hands out please and pray for me. I really feel discouraged and feel like I’m about to lose my mind.”

“Perception versus reality is a very real thing,” he wrote. “Wherever you are in the world, and whatever God you serve, I’m asking you to stretch your hands toward this screen and pray for me.”

He added that “Most people would never post something like this on Instagram.” In addition, he said that he was “on the brink,” “overwhelmed, deeply stressed, and being pushed to my limits.”

“Everything imaginable has been hitting me from every direction-mentally, emotionally, psychologically, and financially,” he wrote. “I have an extremely high tolerance for pain. Most of the time, I smile my way through whatever I’m carrying, whether people realize I’m hurting or not. But right now, I’m empty. I’m depleted. My soul is tired.”

Tyrese added that he is usually the one giving encouragement, but he “desperately” needs it now.

“I need somebody to be there for me,” he continued. “Please take this post seriously. I’m not asking for money or anything material. I’m asking for prayer, covering, love, positive energy and genuine support. Please literally pray for me. What I’m carrying is heavy-very heavy-and I don’t believe I can continue carrying all of it alone. Pride and ego come before the fall, and only pride or ego would stop me from being honest enough to post this. Please stretch your hands toward this screen and pray for me. Write your prayers in the comments because I want to read every single one. Thank You, Jesus, in advance for everything You have already done-and everything You are about to do.”

Fans React With Prayers And Support

Fans were quick to respond with prayers after it was shared on TSR’s Instagram page, and Roomies also offered Tyrese support.

User @themelaninblossom replied, “Father God, rescue his heart, mind and soul. Amen.”

@natoyadowner added, “Father God you are the great Physician, I pray that you heal this man’s mind in your humble name I pray. Amen.”

@ramirezladygee wrote, “🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏… Father God I’m lifting Tyrese up in your name Jesus . Amen! 🥰.”

User @e.ss49 could relate to the actor. “I feel for him and I understand him.”

@liminalplaces99 added, “Lord please grant our brother a peaceful heart and mind and a blessed life amen 🙏❤️.”

User @789624designs added, “Sending you love bro.”

@beautifulflower25 replied, “God please lift him up as only you can do🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽.”

Music can be healing, and @pretty_goddess444 prescribed singing for Tyrese. “Go in the studio and sing your emotions out hopefully that will heal you 🙏🏽.”

Tyrese Also Posted About Preaching

The actor also shared a post on Instagram on Sunday, August 2, that may shock some fans. He shared a video of Pastor Warryn Campbell preaching, and Tyrese noted that he’s been called on to preach.

“I’M ALMOST SCARED TO POST THIS,” he wrote. “For years, people have told me that I’m called to preach. My grandfather was a pastor with his own church in St. Louis. I’m a truth-seeker who loves Jesus Christ, and I remain public and unapologetic about my faith—even though I am far from perfect.”

He also said he was joining the church.

“Pastor John Gray, thank you for PREACHING today,” he continued. “I cried and cried again. California Worship Center blessed me. Next week, I’m returning with Zelie Timothy, and we’re becoming members. I’ve been searching for a church home—and I finally found it. THANK YOU, JESUS!”

RELATED: Tyrese Gibson Speaks Out After Fans Joke About Video With His Daughter Shayla & Her Prom Date (WATCH)

Edward James Porter, an Illinois man, is reportedly the third person arrested for allegedly making threats in the Nolan Wells investigation, as Mississippi official Sean Tindell says the circulating toxicology report labeled as the late teen’s is fraudulent.

RELATED: Cincinnati Woman Reportedly Charged After Allegedly Making Bomb Threats To Mississippi Officials & Jackson County Officers Amid Nolan Wells Investigation

Illinois Man Third Arrested For Alleged Threats

According to the Sun Herald, Edward James Porter has also been charged in a federal criminal complaint. This, for allegedly “transmitting a threatening communication in interstate commerce to kill or injure two witnesses” connected to the Nolan Wells case.

Per Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Christopher Kloc, Porter threatened two witnesses via phone calls and texts on Friday, July 31. Specifically, he allegedly told one witness he had their home address and was going to “come kill” them and their family. From there, he allegedly texted the witness their address. Additionally, Porter allegedly called a second witness, threatened to kill them, cut up their body, and stuff them into a suitcase.

The arrest of Edward James Porter arrived days after Cincinnati woman Michelle Francine Edwards was charged with “transmitting in interstate commerce a threatening communication to kill or injure another person and to damage or destroy a building,” per The Shade Room. Edwards allegedly directed her threats toward the George County Chancery Clerk’s Office and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. Prior to this, California man Joseph Alfredo Vasquez Dumarce was charged with “interstate transmission of a threatening communication,” per The Shade Room. Durmace allegedly directed his threats toward Chancery Judge Ashlee Cole, the mother of a teen who traveled to Horn Island with Nolan Wells on July 4.

Mom Of Teen Who Was On Horn Island With Nolan Xavier Wells Says Family Is Receiving Death Threats: “We Also Want To Know What Happened”

Mississippi Official Says Circulating Nolan Wells Toxicology Report Is “Fraudulent”

According to PEOPLE, the past weekend also marked the Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell addressing a circulating toxicology report.

“The purported toxicology report from Nolan Wells circulating through social media on various outlets is fraudulent. Nolan’s family, friends, and most importantly, Nolan himself, deserve better. Fraudsters, AI, and social media are a recipe for disaster. All they want you to do is click and share, don’t!” he stated via Facebook.

Furthermore, on August 1, Bart Edmiston’s lawyer, Russell Latino, also addressed the “phony” toxicology reports via Facebook.

“There are phony toxicology reports on Nolan Wells circulating now. Some of them are very well done if you don’t know what to look for. (They look very real). The disinformation campaigns in this case are wild and candidly undermine the actual investigation. Someone’s death should not be your entertainment. Touch grass today,” he wrote.

To note, the Wells’ family attorney, Ben Crump, also addressed the “fake toxicology report” via X, formerly known as Twitter.

“Mississippi officials say a fake toxicology report about Nolan Xavier Wells has been circulating online, while the official report has not yet been publicly released. Misinformation only deepens this grieving family’s pain. We must remain focused on the facts and ensure Nolan’s family receives the truth they have been waiting for,” he wrote.

Mississippi officials say a fake toxicology report about Nolan Xavier Wells has been circulating online, while the official report has not yet been publicly released. Misinformation only deepens this grieving family’s pain. We must remain focused on the facts and ensure Nolan’s…

— Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) August 3, 2026

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Nolan Wells’ Mom Speaks On Intoxication Rumors

On Friday, July 31, Nolan Wells’ mom, Christine Wonsley, appeared on a livestream with Don Lemon. During this livestream, she spoke about rumors alleging her son was “sloppy drunk,” or heavily intoxicated, on Horn Island on July 4. In footage captured by TMZ, Wonsley said: “There are so many conflicting stories.”

“Only because I have spoken with adults who knew Nolan very well — coaches that were out there. One in particular, he told me he saw Nolan somewhere between 2:45 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. He was like… and he was like, ‘He was perfectly fine,’” Wonsley recalled.

RELATED: Nolan Wells’ Alleged Friends Reportedly Launch Six-Figure Legal Defense Fundraiser Amid Ongoing Scrutiny

Ariana Grande has reassured fans that her upcoming break from the spotlight is something she planned long before recent headlines or online speculation. 

The singer addressed the decision in an emotional message during her Eternal Sunshine Tour stop in Chicago, making it clear that stepping back was never a reaction to outside noise. 

As her heartfelt remarks resonated with fans, one of the people closest to her publicly showed unwavering support, celebrating both Ariana’s latest artistic work and the person behind it.

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Rather than letting recent speculation define the conversation, Ariana Grande used her return to the stage at Chicago’s United Center to explain the decision herself.

As The Blast reported, the Grammy Award winner stressed that her plans had been in place well before the public announcement.

“The announcement that was made yesterday was not a reactive or impulsive thing. It is something that I had decided to plan,” Ariana explained, adding that she had made the decision “quietly, a long time ago.”

The former Nickelodeon star also dismissed claims that outside negativity had overshadowed what the tour meant to her.

“No matter what noises exist out there, nothing will be able to distort my reality or be more real to me or not as real to me as this love that we share,” Ariana said.

Calling the Eternal Sunshine Tour “one of the most healing, beautiful, correct and special experiences” of her life, she paused before adding, “That felt good.”

Ariana’s Mother Publicly Celebrates Her Latest Project

Following Ariana Grande’s emotional confession, Joan Grande made her feelings known with a heartfelt show of support on social media.

Commenting on her daughter’s Instagram post featuring behind-the-scenes images from the newly released “Petal” music video, Joan praised both her daughter’s work and the artist herself.

“You are magnificent… and this video is incredible!! I love it and I love you more!!!” she wrote. 

The post featured several striking images from the visual, including scenes of Ariana covered in blood and holding a chainsaw. 

Ariana Grande’s Team Says The Break Has Been Planned For Some Time

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Ariana’s emotional message echoed what her team had already shared about her plans after the Eternal Sunshine Tour.

According to her representative, the singer will step away from public-facing appearances once the tour concludes in London on September 1.

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“Ariana will be taking a step back from visibility after she completes the Eternal Sunshine Tour,” the representative told PEOPLE.

They added that Ariana was looking forward to finishing the tour “healthily and happily” before taking “a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny.”

The representative also emphasized that the tour itself had been an overwhelmingly positive experience, noting, “This tour has been a beautiful experience for her. She loves her fans and has loved every minute of this tour so much.”

Ariana’s ‘Petal’ Is Becoming One Of Her Boldest Artistic Statements Yet

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While Ariana Grande’s big announcement has dominated headlines, her latest album and its striking visuals are generating just as much conversation.

Released on July 31, “Petal” marks the star’s eighth studio album and showcases a noticeably different creative direction. 

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Rather than relying on the powerhouse vocals that defined much of her earlier career, the project embraces a more restrained, emotionally layered sound, with critics pointing to its introspective lyrics and understated production as signs of an artist entering a new phase. 

The album’s lead single, “Hate That I Made You Love Me,” has already become another career milestone, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and giving Ariana her tenth chart-topping single. 

Ariana Grande Takes Fight Over Leaked Music To Court

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Amid the career milestones, Ariana is also pursuing legal action over what she claims was a coordinated effort to steal and distribute some of her most closely guarded creative work.

According to The New York Times, the 33-year-old recently launched legal action against unidentified hackers she alleged orchestrated a years-long campaign to steal and distribute her unreleased music and private content. 

Court filings claimed the hackers gained unauthorized access to people within Ariana’s professional circle before obtaining unreleased masters, demo recordings, private photographs, recording session footage, and music video assets. 

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According to the filing, the alleged operation resulted in dozens of songs being leaked online, with 45 unreleased tracks surfacing in 2023 alone. 

Ariana is seeking permission to subpoena digital records that could help identify those responsible, arguing that the stolen material was later sold and distributed across the internet.

It’s no surprise that most of the outfits I spot on my favorite stylish celebrities are way out of my price range. But every once in a while, there are rare finds — like Halle Berry’s gorgeous resort-style pants — that are not only affordable but actually on sale. In fact, the actress’ vacation bottoms are currently discounted to under $40.

Posing seaside, the 59-year-old Crime 101 star looked effortlessly cool and vacation-ready, showing off a sleek SOMA matching set that included a coordinating swim cover-up. With Berry’s pants currently discounted by 50%, the look is surprisingly easy to recreate without breaking your budget.

Get the Soma Cotton Voile Wide Leg Relaxed Pants for $36 at Soma! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

While Berry rocked her breezy vacation pants on a beach getaway, the bright, slightly sheer bottoms would work just as well as a poolside cover-up or on an easy summer morning ensemble. Designed with a cozy elastic waist, the figure-flattering pick is made with soft 100% cotton and features a bright pink base adorned with a vibrant tropical print — palm trees and all.

Related: Bye, Leggings! Anne Hathaway Wore This Elevated Spin on Comfy Lounge Pants

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After seeing Anne Hathaway‘s comfy-chic lounge pants, we’re no longer making excuses for frumpy sweats. Hathaway’s silky style gives casual a polished twist, and although it appears expensive, we found the look for only $37. Leaving ABC Studios, Hathaway stepped out in a head-to-toe white ensemble, rocking a tank top under a crochet-style sweater and […]

In true resort style, the roomy wide-leg pants also include a side slit that gives them an easy, relaxed movement with every step. All they are missing is some raffia sandals and an oversized tote to complete the whole resort-ready look.

SOMA is worn by other famous faces like Jessica Alba and Padma Lakshmi and gets rave reviews for everything from sleepwear to lingerie and swimwear. So, it’s no surprise customers are just as obsessed with these vacation-ready pants.

“Pattern is even prettier in person,” one shopper in their 50s said. “Very light, soft, delicate and sheer. Surprisingly deep pockets.”

While I might not be able to vacation quite like Halle Berry, slipping into these breezy pants gets me surprisingly close to her vacation style. Shop these expensive-looking wide-leg pants while they’re still in stock and on sale.

Get the Soma Cotton Voile Wide Leg Relaxed Pants for $36 at Soma! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Related: These Slimming Beach Pants Look Straight Out of a Hamptons Boutique

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If your summer wardrobe could use a little Hamptons-inspired polish, start with a pair of flowy beach pants. The lightweight fabrics, relaxed silhouettes and easy pull-on designs strike the perfect balance between comfort and elevated style. They’re the kind of pants that are perfect for a beachside lunch, weekend farmers’ market or sunset dinner by […]

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Ariana Grande addressed her fans directly after announcing her decision to take a “step back” from the spotlight.

“Is it OK if we get a little real tonight?” the “We Can’t Be Friends” singer said onstage Monday, August 3, at her Eternal Sunshine Tour in Chicago, per footage posted via X.

She continued, “Sometimes when a story comes out that’s not directly from me, things can get a little blown out of proportion, so I just wanted to speak to my fans directly tonight, because I love you so much.”

“The announcement that was made yesterday was not a reactive or impulsive thing,” Grande, 33, explained. “It is something that I had decided, a plan I had quietly made a long time ago, and it’s a decision that was made from a thoughtful and empowered place.”

Grande addressed concerns that her fans “were worried that ‘negativity’ was ruining things for me,” insisting that is not the case.

“I want you to know that many things can be true at the same time,” she said. “Boundaries can need to be set, human beings can need a break sometimes, and also, this can be and will continue to be the greatest experience of my professional career.

“No matter what noises exist out there, nothing will be able to distort my reality or be more real to me or not as real to me than this love that we share and how it feels to make art with people that I love and respect. Absolutely nothing will change that.”

“This is what I will take with me and carry with me, because the rest of that s*** is not mine to carry,” the Oscar nominee added to cheers from fans in attendance at the United Center.

Related: Ariana Grande Addresses Fans for 1st Time Since ‘Step Back’ Announcement

Ariana Grande is speaking directly to her fans after a spokesperson for the pop star revealed her plans to take a step back from the public eye amid online scrutiny and concern over her body. “See you tonight, my sweethearts!!!” Grande, 33, wrote via her Instagram Story on Monday, August 3, referring to ticket holders […]

She added, “This tour has been the most healing, beautiful, corrective, magnificent, special experience of my life.”

After sharing her heartfelt words with the crowd for around four minutes, the singer declared, “That felt good.”

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“I wish words were enough to articulate just how much I love you all. Now we can keep going,” she said before continuing her set.

Grande’s rep announced on Sunday, August 2, that the Wicked actress will take a break from the spotlight after the conclusion of her Eternal Sunshine Tour. (The tour is set to wrap September 1 in London.)

“She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny,” her spokesperson told People.

Sidney Starr has the internet talking following her recent arrest. As of Monday (August 3), Starr remains in custody. She is facing multiple charges, including sexual battery against a child under 16, aggravated child molestation, and sodomy. As the conversation continues online, Sidney, her mother, Zeus CEO Lemuel Plummer, and a fellow Baddies ATL cast member have all spoken out regarding the case.

RELATED: Mugshot Of Sidney Starr Released Amid Alleged Sexual Battery & Child Molestation Charges Involving A Minor Under 16

Sidney Starr & Her Mother Speak Out Following Her Arrest

Speaking to TMZ, Sidney Starr denied the child sexual assault allegations and said she plans to fight the charges. In a statement to the site, Starr said she “unequivocally denies the allegations against her and intends to vigorously defend herself through the legal process.” She also stated, “Allegations should not be mistaken for fact, and public opinion should never replace due process.”

Also, Starr defended the transgender community, saying one person’s alleged actions should not be used to stigmatize an entire community. She thanked supporters for their patience, requested privacy as the case moves forward, and said this would be her only public statement while the legal matter remains pending.

Meanwhile, Sidney’s mother, Stephanie Favors, also spoke to TMZ, saying she does not believe her daughter would engage in sexual activity with a minor. She also said the allegations are out of character. 

Zeus CEO Lemuel Plummer Releases A Statement

Amid reactions to Sidney Starr’s latest arrest, Zeus CEO Lemuel Plummer released a statement on Instagram. The statement comes ahead of Starr’s appearance as a host during the upcoming ‘Bad Boys: Dominican Republic’ reunion. Plummer said Zeus is aware of the allegations and clarified that the company does not comment on pending legal matters. He also said the company does not condone the alleged conduct described in recent reports. Additionally, Plummer noted that Starr’s appearance in previously produced Zeus programming is not an endorsement by the network.

The statement reads, “The Zeus Network is aware of the recent allegations circulating on social media involving Sidney Starr. As a matter of longstanding policy, The Zeus Network does not comment on pending legal matters involving current or former cast members.

While these allegations remain subject to the appropriate legal process, The Zeus Network takes matters of this nature seriously and does not condone the conduct alleged in recent reports.

Ms. Starr appears in previously produced programming that is currently airing on The Zeus Network. Her appearance in this content does not reflect a position or endorsement by the network regarding the allegations.

The Zeus Network remains committed to fostering a professional environment and producing programming that entertains audiences while operating with integrity, accountability, and respect for everyone involved.”

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Fellow ‘Baddies ATL’ Star Reacts To Sidney Starr’s Arrest

Judi Jai also took to her Instagram page to react following Sidney Starr’s latest arrest. The two have a long history of feuding, dating back to their time on ‘Baddies ATL.’  Judi shared a screenshot of past text message, claiming she previously accused Sidney of similar behavior. In her caption, Judi claimed she beat her own case after being arrested and accused Sidney of harassing and lying on her. She also questioned why Sidney continues to receive opportunities despite the allegations and called for young boys to be protected.

She wrote, “Wow! She laughed at me when I got arrested for literally getting harassed by my neighbor and him lying on me, probably cuz she could relate since she HARASSED & lied on me too! Which I beat the charges and case was dismissed! Wiped away from my record. And I am not laughing now that it’s her turn… because this isn’t funny at all. It’s SiCK.”

Judi added, “So crazy I JUST said this! Pisces be knowing frfr. How she has fans is beyond me!!! It’s way past what she did to Chingy! It’s what she does to women AND minors too! When was anybody gonna say something?!?

Why does she keep getting hired on platforms after all of it! YUCK!!! (PROTECT YOUNG BOYS TOO!!! Just like I SCREAMED TO PROTECT BLACK WOMEN ON BADDiES ATL! I am NEVER wrong. People are just ALWAYS late!”

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