Entertainment

8 Best Acting Debuts For a Musician

Published

2 hours ago

4 February 2026

As with television stars of the past who tried to be taken seriously in major films, popular music artists who leap into acting face risk. Some musicians lean into their established personas, while others make great efforts to put aside their iconic image to play a fleshed-out character. Oftentimes, the ones who succeed the most prove to be the biggest surprises of them all.

While legends such as Cher and Barbra Streisand have built award-winning careers both in film and music, this list focuses on the best acting debuts of any artist in the past few decades. Musical performance cameos do not count in this case. These are the films that launched second careers for the music industry’s brightest stars.

8

Bad Bunny

‘Bullet Train’

Since arriving on the hip-hop scene in the early 2010s, the self-proclaimed “King of Latin Trap” has surprised audiences across all genres. Bad Bunny’s monumental success in bringing Spanish‑language rap to the mainstream has extended to everything from participating as a wrestler in WWE to headlining this year’s Super Bowl Halftime Show. Movies always seemed destined for him, and the Brad Pitt-led action comedy Bullet Train fulfilled just that.

Bullet Train sees Bad Bunny play the role of Wolf, just one of several assassins along the brutal Tokyo ride seeking revenge against the Ladybug (Pitt), triggered by the Hornet’s poisoning of his cartel crew. Packed with a tragic backstory and an insane fight sequence with Pitt, the rapper’s on-screen presence never feels like a debut. Bad Bunny plays his killer role straight without disrupting the absurdly dark comedic tone. Director David Leitch praised the star for his dedication to Bullet Train’s dangerous stunts.

“He came like a consummate professional. I think a lot of those guys are. That’s how they get so successful. I mean, his work ethic is off the charts, and he came and trained with us for three weeks to work on the fighting, and then we had to shoot that whole, non-verbal story that I wanted to tell visually. Wanted to build up the expectation of this character and obviously rip the rug out.”

7

Ice-T

‘New Jack City’

A pioneer in the hood movie genre of the ‘90s, New Jack City took the Warner Bros.-produced gangster pictures of the ‘30s and modernized them for urban audiences. Director Mario Van Peebles changed the perception of crime lords who were usually romanticized in such classics as Superfly and Scarface by revealing the true harm they were causing to the community. A film like this did not scream for a straight-laced hero with a badge to take on Wesley Snipes’ charismatic crack lord. It needed someone real to deliver the truth, which Ice-T did better than anyone else in this film.

Though Snipes is New Jack City’s breakout performer, Ice-T’s role as Detective Scotty Appleton was an ideal role model for young people. The future Law & Order: Special Victims Unit star sees through the lies and deception of Nino’s empire as he infiltrates the gang to break them up from within. His rebellious image rarely gets softened until he endures the tragedy of the drug victim Pookie (Chris Rock), whom he fails to save. Even then, the rapper perfected the ideal cop who fights for the victims on the street.

6

Will Smith

‘Where the Day Takes You’

Will Smith went from kid-friendly rapper to the sitcom star of NBC’s The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and eventually became one of the biggest movie stars in the world. Groundbreaking hits such as Independence Day and Men in Black cemented his leading man status as the go-to actor for movies about saving the world. Before he could battle aliens, robots, and drug dealers, however, Smith surprised his fans in his small role as a homeless teen in 1992’s Where the Day Takes You.

The little-seen ensemble drama starring Sean Astin, Lara Flynn Boyle, and Alyssa Milano features Smith as the paraplegic Manny who hangs around a gang of runaway youths led by their father figure (Dermot Mulroney). Gone is the baggy neon urban wear of Smith’s Fresh Prince days; he is stripped of his winning charm. Smith fully embodies the Hollywood street hustle as a destitute youth embedded in a makeshift homeless family, never once trying to stand out from the pack. Though not as provocative as his next controversial role as a gay con artist in Six Degrees of Separation, Where the Day Takes You showcased Smith’s textured acting versatility which would pay off decades later with his Oscar win for King Richard.

5

Madonna

‘Desperately Seeking Susan’

The quirky 1985 romantic comedy by Susan Seidelman came in the early days of Madonna’s rise from nightclub singer to an MTV household staple. In her debut motion picture, aside from a musical cameo in Vision Quest, the Material Girl takes on the title role of a hip loner whose personals in a New York tabloid publication catch the attention of a dissatisfied New Jersey housewife (Rosanna Arquette). Suffering amnesia and adopting the tabloid writer’s persona, the housewife ultimately crosses paths with the real Susan, and the real trouble begins.

Desperately Seeking Susan allowed Madonna to break out with a larger audience that may not have had a subscription to MTV in 1985. Donning her trademark fashion and accessories, the ‘80s pop queen embodies the hip Bohemian lifestyle of New York City and acts as the imaginary carefree hero Arquette desires to be. Madonna’s evolution pushed her into greater challenges over time, whether it’s a femme fatale singer in Dick Tracy or the aspirational leader in Evita. But Desperately Seeking Susan is a perfect snapshot of Madonna’s ascent as a legitimate movie star.

4

Ice Cube

‘Boyz n the Hood’

25 years after it hit cinemas across the United States, John Singleton’s Boyz n the Hood made a statement about Black America that remains as relevant today as it was in 1991. Unlike previous crime thrillers dealing with the gangs of South Central, L.A., the landmark drama emphasized the people in the community walking a fine line between falling prey to the violence and finding hope for a better future. Ice Cube’s performance as Doughboy was not merely a mirror image of the N.W.A. rapper. Instead, he was a living, breathing cautionary tale.

Cube’s role provided Boyz n the Hood a much-needed contrast from Cuba Gooding, Jr.’s arc from aimless boy to an honest adult. Doughboy exemplifies a life in which the lack of a male authority figure in his household forces him to resort to crime, with no options available for a legitimate future. There’s no wink and nodding to the audience like Cube’s later roles in Friday and Barbershop. Through his gritty, authentic portrayal, Cube reveals how young men like Doughboy lack proper guidance, which results in making violence the automatic answer in an unjust society.

3

Eminem

‘8 Mile’

Outside his cameo in The Wash, Eminem’s iconic performance in 8 Mile is the only time the Detroit-based rapper headlined a theatrical film. The funky beats of his songs and the comedic visuals of his music videos are completely dropped in favor of a gritty street drama under the direction of the late Curtis Hanson (L.A. Confidential, Wonder Boys). Loosely inspired by Eminem’s life, the hip-hop legend plays a blue-collar factory worker and single father whose aspirations for a better life outside his low-income Motor City surroundings are held back by his alcoholic mother (Kim Basinger) as well as stage fright.

For a leading man debut, Eminem’s quiet restraint and moments of explosive rage echo the grit of the ‘70s New Hollywood era stars such as Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. He never appears like he is acting for the first time in his life because he is actually living the life depicted on screen. The evolution from a working-class nobody to a charismatic rapper is treated like a slow burn, and Eminem lets the anger bubble up every minute until the explosive rap battle finale.

2

Jennifer Hudson

‘Dreamgirls’

The film adaptation of the popular 1981 Broadway musical was a star-studded affair with Jamie Foxx and Eddie Murphy as the headliners. Add to that Beyonce Knowles, who was a few films into her acting career, playing to her superstar status. But former American Idol runner-up Jennifer Hudson had the greatest challenge of her co-stars by playing the tortured Effie White. In every sense of the word, Hudson exceeded all expectations.

Out of any A-list actor in the Dreamgirls ensemble, Hudson was the ultimate showstopper. Her powerhouse rendition of “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” is deeply chilling due to the combination of power and heartbreak registering through the vocals. Add to that the most sympathetic story arc of the entire film, Hudson’s Oscar win for Best Supporting Actress remains one of the most deserving Academy Award wins in cinema history.

1

Prince

‘Purple Rain’

Michael Jackson, Madonna, and George Michael reigned supreme in the ‘80s music landscape. Yet, Prince was the only musician to do more than just dip his toe into acting. Like 8 Mile for Eminem, Purple Rain would elevate aspects of Prince’s life into a grounded, but fantastical tale of a self-centered musical genius caught between love, ego, and the struggle to survive in an abusive household. Unlike the aforementioned artists on this list, Prince’s debut film defined his legacy.

The multi-talented singer/songwriter from Minneapolis became a global icon when Purple Rain hit theaters in 1984. The vibrant, often sexually charged musical numbers taking place at Minneapolis’s First Avenue nightclub dazzle across the silver screen, and the red-hot soundtrack elevates everything from motorcycle montages to graphic love scenes. What Purple Rain also revealed was a rock star willing to be open about his personal trauma, specifically the abuse at the hands of his father (Clarence Williams III). Once the title number hits, Prince elicits an emotional intensity few films have since matched.

Release Date: July 27, 1984
Runtime: 111 minutes
Director: Advertisement

Albert Magnoli
Writers: Albert Magnoli, William Blinn
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Producers: Robert Cavallo, Steven Fargnoli

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Copy Meghan Markle’s Navy Peacoat With This Amazon Trench

Published

8 minutes ago

5 February 2026

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As expected, celebrities were out and about at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. Among them was Meghan Markle, and while she had eyes on the movies, we had our eyes on her long navy peacoat. The four-digit price tag, however, led us to look for an inexpensive option — which is exactly what we found with this $53 Amazon find.

Markle was at Sundance for the premiere of Cookie Queens, which she executive-produced alongside her husband, Prince Harry. She posed on the red carpet in the Heidi Merrick Fog Coat, which retails for a cool $1,275. Thankfully, the Ebossy Double-Breasted Long Coat is a much more affordable alternative with a similar look, making it a worthy addition to your wardrobe for chilly days ahead.

Get the Ebossy Double-Breasted Long Coat for $53 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

In order to achieve Markle’s deep blue look, you’ll want to shop the layer in navy, but the same piece comes in black, brown, dark gray, dark red and army green. Like the designer version, the Ebossy coat includes a belt for easy closure, but it also features extra hardware, including silver buttons down the front.

Many peacoats come in midi lengths, but the Ebossy option nearly hits the ankles. Not only does that make for an elegant look, but it also keeps wearers protected from the wind and other elements. Despite its price, this pick is surprisingly heavy, so it can withstand the frigid temperatures sweeping the country this time of year.

Amazon shoppers appreciate this long, sleek coat. Even though it’s affordable, it holds up well against serious winter weather.

“This coat is fabulous. All lined, warm and fashionable. Pretty sure I need one in every color now. You cannot beat the price,” one five-star reviewer shared.

“I loved this coat. Great quality for the price,” another happy shopper wrote. “It’s a good buy. Soft and warm. I’ve only worn it once so far, and I only wear it out to elegant occasions.”

A quality peacoat is an easy way to dress up whatever you’re wearing underneath, even if it’s a matching sweatsuit set. This Markle-inspired option will do just that, while also keeping you nice and warm.

Get the Ebossy Double-Breasted Long Coat for $53 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more peacoats here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

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Law Enforcement Agents at Annie Guthrie’s House Amid Search For Nancy

Published

18 minutes ago

5 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Nancy Guthrie Abduction
Investigators Visit Daughter Annie’s Home

Published
February 4, 2026
5:01 PM PST

A new twist in the kidnapping of ‘TODAY’ anchor Savannah Guthrie‘s mother Nancy … the Arizona home of Savannah’s sister Annie is crawling with law enforcement agents.

Photos show a deputy wearing an ICAC shirt arriving Wednesday afternoon at Annie’s home … and what’s even more interesting is what he appears to have in the bag over his shoulder.

Now, the ICAC badge appears to be from the Internet Crimes Against Children task force … and the box with a strap over his shoulder is believed to be a forensic extraction device used to access data from smartphones, SIM cards and more.

The Cellebrite Universal Forensic Extraction Device that the agent appears to be carrying here can even retrieve encrypted data and deleted content.

FOX News

Annie lives in the home with her husband, Tommaso Cioni … and the couple are reportedly the last people to see Nancy before she was abducted from her Tucson-area home in the middle of the night.

Reporters outside the home say agents appeared to have seized items from inside … though it’s unclear what, if anything, was taken.

As for the ICAC task force’s involvement … Pima Co. Sheriff’s Dept. says detectives from multiple units are working the case, but “this does not mean an acronym or unit name on the shirt is indicative of a particular crime associated with this case.”

Authorities have not named a suspect … and Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said Wednesday they have no reason to believe she is deceased.

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Netflix’s Miniseries Masterpiece Thriller Is Still Surging on Streaming Charts 12 Weeks After Its Premiere

Published

32 minutes ago

5 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Claire Danes and Matthew Rhys standing together on the red carpet at a Tastemaker event for The Beast in Me

When the right elements collide, a great show tends to stick around in the cultural conversation. Streaming platforms may allow series to live online indefinitely, but it’s far rarer for audiences to still be watching and talking about a show months after it premieres. In a binge-first era where entire seasons can be consumed in a weekend and quickly forgotten, a series has to leave a lasting impression to keep drawing in new viewers long after its initial release. Great writing gives actors room to dig deep. Strong performances elevate familiar genre beats. And when all of that clicks into place, you get a compelling show that people can’t stop recommending.

That’s exactly what’s happened with The Beast in Me, which continues to surge on Netflix’s Top 10 charts more than three months after its premiere. In an era when most shows burn hot and disappear just as quickly, The Beast in Me has proven to be a clear outlier. That staying power isn’t surprising, given the stellar lead performances from Matthew Rhys and Claire Danes, along with a group of rich characters and a mystery compelling enough to keep viewers hooked. With showrunner Howard Gordon recently noting that there is “always potential” for a second season, the show’s sustained chart presence proves it has real legs in an increasingly crowded streaming landscape.

Claire Danes and Matthew Rhys Anchor a Stellar Ensemble in Netflix’s ‘The Beast in Me’

Premiering in November 2025, The Beast in Me follows Aggie Wiggs (Danes), a mourning author living next door to her new neighbor, enigmatic and arguably menacing real estate mogul Nile Jarvis (Rhys) and his wife Nina (Brittany Snow). Nile was accused of killing his first wife and convinces Aggie to write a book about him. From there, their relationship grows into something deeply compelling and increasingly unsettling as she peels back the truth of who Nile really is.

Right from the start, these characters draw viewers in with their complexity. Aggie is dealing with the guilt of her young son’s death while trying to move on from her ex-wife Shelley (Natalie Morales). Nile lives in the shadow of his father Martin Jarvis (Jonathan Banks), a ruthless real estate mogul whose influence looms over everything. Rhys has always been reliable for delivering incredible performances, from The Americans to Perry Mason, and he does exceptional work as Nile, balancing charm with a chilling edge that keeps the audience constantly guessing whether he’s a killer or just deeply misunderstood.

‘The Beast in Me’s Claire Danes and Matthew Rhys Break Down Their Twisted Relationship and That Shocking Reveal: “It’s a Mess”

From eating a whole chicken to having a laugh to the Talking Heads track “Psycho Killer,” Danes and Rhys had fun making ‘The Beast in Me’ together.

No one plays a woman in grief and turmoil quite like Claire Danes, who viewers have seen for years on Homeland, but here she plays opposite Rhys with palpable chemistry, echoing her Homeland dynamic, drawn to someone she can’t fully trust, unsure what to believe yet unable to pull away. Another standout performance comes from Brittany Snow, who is finally getting recognized for her dramatic range, building on her work in The Hunting Wives. Together, the ensemble turns the series into something far richer than a standard crime drama, but that doesn’t mean the plot isn’t worth watching for either.

Netflix Unleashes a Captivating Mystery With ‘The Beast in Me’

Beyond its incredible cast, The Beast in Me is anchored by a mystery that unfolds deliberately across its eight-episode season and remains compelling in its own right. Even when the central revelation — particularly the truth surrounding what happened to Niles’ first wife, Maddie — isn’t especially surprising, it’s the process of uncovering that truth that makes the series so gripping. By prioritizing slow-burn storytelling and complex character dynamics, the show transforms what could have been a conventional whodunit into an examination of grief, guilt, and obsession.

The series also isn’t afraid to keep viewers deeply unsettled, whether through the uneasy presence of Jarvis himself or the stormy nights and shadowed windows of Aggie’s Long Island home. Just as importantly, the show’s pacing is confident and controlled. Tension builds naturally over the course of the season without relying on filler, and even the flashback episode depicting Maddie’s fate feels purposeful, deepening both the mystery and the emotional stakes rather than stalling momentum.

More than twelve weeks after its premiere, it’s not surprising that The Beast in Me continues to draw an audience. Whether through new viewers discovering it via word of mouth or returning audiences revisiting the story with full knowledge of the truth, the series makes a compelling case for why great dramas endure. While Netflix has yet to announce a second season, the show’s sustained presence on the charts makes one thing clear: if the streamer does choose to continue the story, The Beast in Me has already built a dedicated audience ready to show up. Anchored by a carefully constructed mystery, strong writing, and standout performances, the series feels built to last, and its continued success feels earned.

Release Date: 2025 – 2025-00-00
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Michelle Obama documentary “Becoming” spikes on Netflix as “Melania” hits theaters

Published

46 minutes ago

5 February 2026

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A new movie about the wife of President Donald Trump has viewers watching one about President Barack Obama’s first lady.

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Beyond the Gates Early Spoilers Feb 9-13: Dani Reveals Explosive Secret & Ted Completely Unravels

Published

60 minutes ago

5 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Beyond the Gates Spoilers: Dani Dupree (Karla Mosley) - Dr. Ted Richardson (Maurice Johnson)

Beyond the Gates spoilers for February 9th – 13th anticipate Dani Dupree‘s (Karla Mosley) big confession and Dr. Ted Richardson (Maurice Johnson) absolutely snapping and raging at someone in public who really has it coming.

As we do on early edition day, we talk about what’s coming the rest of this week and then we dive into what is ahead next week.

Smitty Make a Dangerous Move and Dani Confesses on Beyond the Gates

On Wednesday, February 4th, we’ve got Bradley “Smitty” Smith (Mike Manning) meeting with his source. This is for the red market plasma case, which of course Jacob Hawthorne (Jibre Hordges) is also undercover on. Smitty poking around could put Jacob in danger, which is problematic.

Plus, Dani Dupree goes ahead and makes a full confession to Andre Richardson (Sean Freeman). She told him on Tuesday, but we’re going to have it reiterated on Wednesday that she did kiss Bill Hamilton (Timon Kyle Durrett). I don’t know if Andre will pretend to handle it well while talking to Dani, but I don’t think inside he’s going to take it well.

Andre was pretty confident when he was talking to Vernon Dupree (Clifton Davis) over at the club after his father-in-law said that Bill really regrets losing Dani. He was acting confident, but inside I think he’s worried he doesn’t want to lose her.

Dani’s Confession and the Red Market Plasma Case on BTG

Meanwhile, Bill Hamilton surprises Carolyn over at the office. I wonder if it’s about banning Hayley Lawson‘s (Marquita Goings) awful tea or something to do with his medical update. Meanwhile, Hayley is flirting with Isaiah. He’s not a very good mark for a conwoman because, as he pointed out to Katherine “Kat” Richardson (Colby Muhammad), he’s got no money. So, gold diggers need not apply. But he is a hunk. If Hayley’s not busy trying to kill Bill, there she is trying to get lucky.

Chelsea Hamilton (RhonniRose Mantilla) is absolutely stunned by what she sees with her grandma Anita Dupree (Tamara Tunie). I’m sure it’s that she cut all her hair off because of the chemo. I thought she looked absolutely gorgeous with the haircut. Obviously, I know that’s natural hair under there and she was in a wig, but I thought they did the scene very well. It’s very poignant. If you have ever had anybody in your family go through this with chemo, it’s upsetting.

Jacob Undercover on Beyond the Gates

Jacob is making progress while working undercover. I hope Smitty stays out of the way and doesn’t get him shot. Thursday, February 5th, we’ve got Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson (Daphnee Duplaix) going out on a date with Kyle. She is working hard to get her groove back. I’m interested to see if Nicole is going to hit the sheets with Kyle as well. She’s had some fun with Carlton, but she’s also been very clear about what she wants and what she doesn’t want.

Beyond the Gates: Relationship Drama and Dangerous Business Moves

Joey lets Vanessa McBride (Lauren Buglioli) get drawn deeper into his business and his personal life, which is going to put her increasingly at risk. This is not just from possible legal ramifications; he’s dealing with dangerous people because he does dangerous things. But Vanessa, to her credit, is game for it all. She wants to be all in with Joey. Randy comes to Mona’s rescue and she thanks him.

Plus, Dana “Leslie” Thomas (Trisha Mann-Grant) does something that confuses Ted. I don’t know if she’s changing up her look or if she’s doing something else to torment Chenise, who is absolutely disgusted when she finds Leslie’s panties tucked behind a throw pillow in the couch of Ted’s hotel room.

I am curious if he is going to recognize them as ones he has seen on Leslie’s body or just recognize her taste in things. Anita is also bickering with Fairmont Crest resident gossip Anastasia. I always enjoy seeing everybody laying into her. And I wonder if she’s making catty remarks about Anita’s new hair or something equally tasteless.

Engagement Rumors and the Infamous Panty Plot on BTG

Friday, February 6th, we’ve got Ted confronting Leslie in public about her little panty plot. I wonder if Eva Thomas (Ambyr Michelle) is going to be there to be mortified by her mama yet again. Two people are getting engaged on Friday. Maybe it’s Tomas “Tom” Navarro (Alex Alegria) and Kat since he’s got his new promotion.

Maybe Chelsea talks Madison into reconsidering her proposal now that they’re heading overseas together. But for real, I would absolutely cheer if it was Vanessa and Joey. Pamela and Andre do some plotting at the end of the week. And I’m sure it’s to make sure that Bill can’t worm his way back into Dani’s life.

Pamela just got her bestie all pulled back together. And she credits Andre for his role in helping Dani heal. They don’t want Bill getting in there and dismantling her again because they don’t trust him, and rightly so.

Shanice (Ernestine Johnson) and Derek Baldwin (Ben Gavin) talk and she comforts him. He can’t be a fireman anymore, he’s lost Ashley Morgan (Jen Jacob). And he’s kind of circling the drain. Grayson has another date with Ashley, but things go awry when Grayson gets a phone call that’s a bit of a mystery.

Could be about his mom because we know he is caretaking a sick parent, or it could be Derek being a jerk and trying to interfere. Plus, Dani gets turned down. And I wonder if Izaiah Hawthorne (David Lami Friebe) is going to officially tell her no thanks on the modeling gig.

Beyond the Gates February Sweeps: Health Battles and Valentine’s Day Plans

The week of February 9th through the 13th, we are way deep into February sweeps with things moving faster. Obviously, everybody in the Dupree family is going to see Anita’s new look and she’s going to tell them about what is going on with the side effects of her chemo. It’s absolutely terrifying. I’m sure we’re not going to see things get too extreme on the soap because we have to keep her looking beautiful, but if you have a family member that’s gone through cancer, it’s terrible.

Next week, Nicole is juggling Kyle and Carlton, but she has made clear with both of them that she doesn’t want anything serious. I’m interested to see if Carlton is feeling threatened by Kyle or vice versa. Hayley’s desperation could make her sloppy now that Bill has a new doctor monitoring his blood levels. Hayley may circle back around to Randy for some other option to kill Bill ASAP.

Beyond the Gates: Bill Disappoints?

We’re also going to have to wait and see if Chelsea and Madison actually pack it up and leave the DMV together or if Chelsea will have to let Madison go alone because of Dupree family drama. Look for Valentine’s Day celebrations to kick off. Vernon’s going to make sure Anita is celebrated in style. And Andre is going to bring his A-game now that Vernon alerted him to Bill’s lurking and regrets.

Hayley’s going to have big expectations, but Bill may disappoint her. Tomas is sure to do something special for Kat. And with Isaiah and Eva officially boyfriend and girlfriend, they’re going to have some big romance, too. I wonder if Marcel’s going to have to bail on Leslie to be with his actual wife. Ted and Shanice are sure to have romantic plans. And I can’t wait to see what fabulous gift Joey has for his lady love, Vanessa.

Massive Young and the Restless Crossover News

We also have some huge crossover action coming to Beyond the Gates in June. We’re going to have characters from The Young and the Restless, including Victor Newman, Kyle Abbott, Jack and Diane Abbott, Abby, and Devon Winters. They’re going to be in town for an event at Fairmont Crest, which is a fundraiser for Martin Richardson’s (Brandon Claybon) re-election campaign. I have some more spoilers on it, but I’m running long, so I’ll share those next time.

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Stargate Cast Goes Off On The Dumbest Part Of The Series And Every Fan Agrees

Published

1 hour ago

5 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Stargate Cast Goes Off On The Dumbest Part Of The Series And Every Fan Agrees

By Jonathan Klotz
| Published 50 seconds ago

Stargate SG-1 turned an early-90s Roland Emmerich film into the foundation for a franchise that’s lasted 30 years and counting. One of the best additions to the franchise came with the villainous Goa’uld symbiotes, who can live for thousands of years and thoroughly enjoy enslaving others to do their bidding.

The problem is that the Goa’uld also use advanced energy weapons, including the Zat’nik’tel, a handheld “ray gun” with capabilities that make no sense the moment you put any thought into them. Michael Shanks, who played Dr. Daniel Jackson, thinks they are the dumbest weapons ever made, and during Oz-Comic Con in 2015, he unleashed decades of resentment in an amazing tirade explaining why the “Zat Gun” was stupid.

The Zat’nik’tel Is The Dumbest Weapon In Sci-Fi

While on stage with Ben Browder (Colonel Cameron Mitchell in Seasons 9-10, and also the lead from Farscape) and Cliff Simon (Ba’al the Goa’uld System Lord), Michael Shanks takes an innocent fan’s question about why the SGC team uses P-90s as a sidearm instead of the far more powerful Zat Gun. Shanks starts off slowly, explaining he refused to ever carry a Zat’nik’tel because “it’s the dumbest weapon ever invented by sci-fi.”

For five more minutes, Shanks goes off on everything wrong with the Zat’nik’tel, from its phallic shape to the barely noticeable physical firing effect, before zeroing in on the very stupid way that the weapon works. The first shot from a Zat’nik’tel stuns the target, the second typically kills, and the third causes them to disintegrate. At first, that sounds pretty badass, but as Michael Shanks points out, it makes no sense.

Michael Shanks goes off on Zat guns.

Shanks argues that if you shoot a lock like O’Neil did, is the lock stunned? Then why did it break open? How long is too long between shots? Can you shoot someone an hour later? Does that stun, or does that count as the second shot? And after stunning them three times, shouldn’t they disappear because that’s three shots?

The Zat’nik’tel makes no sense in Stargate SG-1, a show where, again, the big villains are evil, nearly immortal symbiotes. While Shanks is ranting, Ben Browder and Cliff Simon are cackling along with him, having experienced the inconsistent rules around the Zat Gun firsthand. Shanks points out that the third shot that disintegrated was created on the spot as a solution to the pile of bodies the SGC team was leaving behind while infiltrating a spaceship. There was no grand plan; it was an attempt to fill a plothole with a larger pothole.

No Sci-Fi Franchise Is Perfect

Every sci-fi franchise has parts about it that make no sense, and Stargate is no exception. What’s refreshing is Michael Shanks willingness to have fun with the audience about exactly why he despises the Zat’nik’tel, and again, everyone who’s been in a sci-fi franchise can relate. Star Wars gave fans midichlorians, Star Trek’s timeline drives fans crazy, and Battlestar Galactica revealed the identity of The Five. None of those are as ultimately inconsequential as the Zat’nik’tel, which is what makes Shanks exasperated rant so over the top: it’s the equivalent of Jonathan Frakes talking about how a phaser works.

Stargate SG-1 fans have known for years that the Zat’nik’tel is a very dumb weapon. As part of its first-anniversary episode, “Wormhole X-Treme,” the crew even got to make fun of the Zat’nik’tel by having it described with a completely straight face, followed by the response, “That’s stupid.” It is, and it’s refreshing when the people making the series acknowledge that, yeah, they messed up when creating this, but at least they can laugh about it.

Compared to Star Wars and Star Trek, Stargate doesn’t have the name recognition or the same sort of cultural impact, though all that may change, and we may get an updated Zat’nik’tel when the new Amazon series debuts in a few years. In the meantime, there’s plenty of time to binge all 10 seasons of Stargate SG-1 and engage in the fun of discussing why every single planet in the galaxy looks like Vancouver.

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Claire Foy Reveals Health Reason For Cutting Off Caffeine

Published

1 hour ago

5 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Claire Foy at 'H Is For Hawk' Gala At 69th BFI London Film Festival

Claire Foy had to say a total goodbye to caffeine consumption after an experience she does not hope to relive.

“The Crown” actress shared her health challenge, which prompted changes in her diet and lifestyle, ultimately leading to total abstinence from foods containing caffeine. Foy has been dealing with a trail of health issues right from her teenage years, an experience which left her convinced of a rather short life span.

Claire Foy did not only struggle with physical health issues but also faced the brunt of mental health challenges as a young adult. All of which she remains open to sharing, including her career experiences as she climbed up the ladder to success.

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Claire Foy Reveals Five-Year Battle With Parasites

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Foy took a trip abroad and came back with an atypical souvenir, which left her sick for years. She detailed her gross experience with the parasites she had ingested and the aftereffects that followed.

Foy was oblivious to the fact at first, only noticing that she kept losing weight, always feeling hungry even while maintaining her regular appetite. This raised the suspicion that she had an infection, and when asked if she had it confirmed through a blood or stool test, she responded, “Yeah, the gross stuff.”

The actress dug into the details during an appearance on the “Table Manners With Jessie and Lennie Ware” podcast on Tuesday, February 3. She told the hosts that she believes she got the parasites in Morocco and had been living with them for at least five years.

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“They travel as a pair. I got told by the doctor, gross, absolutely rank. It’s disgusting,” she added before explaining how she had to do a total sweep of her eating habits as a result.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, parasites are organisms that live in, on, or with another organism (host). They feed, grow, or multiply in a way that harms their host.

They cause parasitic infections, which usually manifest with symptoms such as nausea, fever, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss, among others.

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The Actress Had To Part Ways With Some Comfort Foods

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Still in her chat with Jessie and Lennie, she mentioned that she had to go on a diet while recovering and has stuck with the changes. In the actress’s words:

“That’s why I gave up caffeine. I basically had to go on this diet, and because I didn’t want to take really hardcore antibiotics and stuff like that, I took all this little gross stuff, and part of that was giving up caffeine.”

The Netflix star noted that generally she would consume about fifteen cups of tea and two cups of coffee per day, so totally giving up caffeine was quite an adjustment for her.

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Foy, speaking further, shared that she also suffers from an autoimmune condition, which she didn’t particularly disclose, but noted that it also affects her diet as she must avoid foods that may trigger inflammation. Sugar and gluten are off her checklist as well, except for when she has a special dinner, such as during Christmas.

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The Two-Time Emmy Winner Thought She Would Not Make It Past Forty

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Foy previously disclosed that she was convinced her life would end as she clocks forty owing to the myriad of health challenges she faced growing up.

The Netflix star spent her childhood in mid-Counties Buckinghamshire with her family before moving to Liverpool for university. During her childhood, she was not a stranger to hospitals and medical procedures.

The Daily Mail details that she suffered a benign tumour behind one eye and juvenile arthritis that left her unable to walk without the aid of crutches when she was just barely a teenager.

This, among other challenging health issues, made her create the belief that her life would end before it even began. She previously stated that, unlike many who avoid the topic of mortality, she has thought of death her whole life.

“I just presumed that it was going to happen, especially through my childhood… my thing was that I was never going to make it past 40? ever. I have had many medical things in my life,” the Brit actress divulged.

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The Netflix Star Struggled With Her Rise To Fame

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Speaking to The Guardian three years ago, Foy, who made her stage debut at the age of 23, opened up about the difficult phase she went through in her 20s. She revealed that she struggled with anxiety, and her mental health was spiraling down after she moved to London to build her career.

Although the 41-Year-Old was cast in big acting projects early in her career, she struggled with self-confidence and the swell of negativity. This ultimately led to a mental breakdown as the actress felt her successes did not align with the way she viewed herself.

Her sister had to intervene and insist she seek professional help, and so she turned to therapy. Foy admitted that therapy was a massive help in reconstructing her mindset and building her feeling of self-worth once again.

Fans Gushed At Claire Foy’s Return To ‘The Crown’

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After filming the first two seasons of the Netflix hit show, Foy and some of her other costars did not return for the third season due to the time jump for the series. Her character as Queen Elizabeth II was recast to be played by Olivia Colman.

For season four, it was confirmed that Foy was set to return to the series to reprise her role, most likely as a flashback character. When the news of her recasting was announced, fans were thrilled, expressing how much they longed to see her again on the series.

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The Blast shared that some fans initially hoped that the actress would not have been recast during the third season, but that production would turn to makeup and digital altering to depict the aged version of the queen. They had fallen in love with her performance, citing that she played the role perfectly.

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‘The Challenge’ Star Cory Wharton Gets Real About Epic Body Transformation

Published

2 hours ago

5 February 2026

NewsAdmin

MTV star Cory Wharton, known for his time on “The Real World,” “The Challenge,” and “Teen Mom,” is flaunting his new body on Instagram, announcing he’s back in action after being sidelined from the gym a year ago because of knee surgery. In his latest post, Wharton, 34, shared exactly how he shed nearly 15 pounds over the last year and gave his followers who might be hoping for a body transformation of their own a brutally honest reality check about how they can do it too.

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‘The Challenge’ Star Cory Wharton Shows Off New Abs And Epic Body Transformation In A New Social Media Post

In a side-by-side Instagram comparison, Wharton showed off his body a year ago at 233 pounds versus how he looks today at 220 pounds. The difference is quite noticeable, considering the updated photo shows Wharton’s chiseled abs, bulging chest, and broad shoulders.

In the post’s caption, Wharton got real about what led to his weight gain, citing two knee surgeries that kept him out of the gym and prevented him from staying active. After his body recovered, though, Wharton sprang back into action, dropping nearly 15 pounds in the process.

“It’s not always about the number that you see on the scale, it’s about how you feel,” he said.

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‘The Challenge’ Star Cory Wharton Gets Brutally Honest About Losing Weight

Wharton’s ripped physique likely won’t come as a surprise to fans of the reality star, as he’s been a steady presence on “The Challenge” since 2015.

In his Instagram update, Wharton pointed to his athletic background, noting that his familiarity with the gym likely helped make his transformation easier. However, the MTV veteran was adamant that hard work and sacrifice were the true tests in one’s fitness journey.

Wharton then discussed his diet, revealing that, with age, paying attention to what he was putting in his body was equally important. He finished by giving his 1.4 million Instagram followers a harsh reality check.

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“Long story short, if you’re trying to get in shape l, get your -ss to the gym,” he said. “It’s pretty simple and not just that, but when you’re in there, be efficient and use your time well.”

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‘The Challenge’ Alum Cory Wharton Opened Up About Hard Work In The Gym In The Summer Of 2025

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Wharton didn’t stop there. The outspoken reality star also told his followers who were hoping to lose weight that they had to put in more effort than anyone else to reach their goals. “You need to be the hardest worker in the gym; it’s pretty simple. No magical pill you could take to have the body that you want. It’s gonna take lifestyle changes & consistency,” he said.

This isn’t the first time Wharton has been open about his fitness goals, according to Us Weekly. In the summer of 2025, Wharton shared a similar message, proving that long-term changes have been most beneficial for him.

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Wharton underwent knee surgery in 2025 after tearing a ligament while filming “The Challenge 40: Battle of the Eras.” The injury occurred during a challenge against “Big Brother” alum Josh Martinez in the sand. “The sand, already being an unstable surface, sprinting in it just completely [ruptured] the ACL,” Wharton said. “The first surgery that I had back in September was to remove the metal that was in my knee from a bone lengthening surgery I had done 9 years ago. The metal was ultimately in the way of where we wanna put the new ACL.”

Wharton’s Daughter Was Previously In The Hospital

According to TMZ, Wharton had another interaction with doctors in 2025 after his young daughter, Maya, was hospitalized at the Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles, California.

Maya reportedly suffers from tricuspid atresia, a “rare and serious congenital heart defect”; however, the little girl made it through two open-heart surgeries without issue.

“I was just happy that we were able to leave the Children’s Hospital, because there’s a lot of families there that aren’t going to leave,” Wharton said. “They’re waiting a year or 2 for a heart transplant.”

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Wharton Learned A Lot After Dealing With Daughter’s Health Issues

While Wharton was more than grateful to take his daughter home, the reality star said that he left the Los Angeles hospital with a different outlook on life.

“There was people in that building that found a way to smile. Just by talking to them over time, I was just like, ‘These people are staying positive when they’re at their lowest,’” he said. “I’m trying to do what I can to try to help out Children’s Hospital or young ones that are in need … it’s a far cry from MTV, but I wanna try to do something positive with what I got going now.”

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Toosii Talks Mental Health As He Begins His School Journey

Published

2 hours ago

4 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Toosii has been on a rollercoaster of a journey as he transitions from the rap lifestyle to pursuing football and focusing on his education. After leaving his commitment to the Syracuse University football team and deciding to attend classes at Louisiana State University, he took to social media to address critics who had opinions about his decisions.

RELATED: Social Media Reacts After Toosii Calls Syracuse Football Coach A “Bozo” & Announces First Day At Louisiana State University (VIDEOS)

Toosii Opens Up About His Mental Health As He Embarks On A New Journey

After leaving the Syracuse University football team, Toosii has been transitioning into a new chapter as a student at LSU. The switch sparked a lot of mixed buzz online. Despite the noise, he has continued sharing footage of his football training as he adjusts to his new environment.

He took to his Instagram Story to share the emotional toll the journey has taken on him behind the scenes, noting that it hasn’t been easy and emphasizing his faith and personal growth.

“I wanna be transparent along this journey since I feel like so many of you are along with me on this journey. It’s been taking a toll on me mentally. Not because of the criticism but because behind closed doors things haven’t went the way I may have planned although, that’s just life. You ever wanted something so bad you’d do almost anything for it? That’s how this journey has been. This journey has been a true test of faith. God has great plans and through him all is possible so I have no worries. I will say though forgive and give me grace for my mistakes as I become a better person all around. God bless everyone who supports or even hates this dream of mine. It all is used as motivation.”

A Rapper’s Day In The Life At Louisiana State University

Despite the mental toll, Toosi is not letting anything dim his spirit. He recently took to his Instagram Story to give fans a glimpse into his life as a new student. He shared photos of his student ID, moments playing basketball with other students, and a look inside his room. In a video of his room, Toosii captioned it, “College life [that] serious,” adding, “Y’all think a n**** got it like that,” as he showed just how real, raw and relatable his life can be. In the footage, his mattress was on the floor with no sheets.

Social Media Reacts

Fans following The Shade Room Teens tuned in to Toosii’s day in the life as a college student. Some felt he was “cosplaying” as a broke college student and questioned why a rich rapper would live that way. Others defended him, saying he deserves the full college experience. They also emphasized give grace while he’s balancing family responsibilities, school, all while chasing his football goals.

Instagram user @shemarcel_ wrote, “Fiancé, 2 Kids at home but you at a Dorm cosplaying a struggling college Student”

Instagram user @niyaleshelle added, “it’s cool to get educated but all the testimonies he can save!! just go to school, enjoy yourself, graduate!”

While Instagram user @lakynanmarii wrote, “Coming from a REAL broke college student, please get out my face”

Instagram user @saaytee wrote, “What if he not as rich as we think and this his plan b”

Instagram user @shaaybanks added, “Yall do realize if he wants to play football he has to stay on campus 6 atleast near it”

While Instagram user @chellychelsss_ wrote, “That boy following his dreams and thats okay .. welcome to the boot”

Instagram user @kalayaha_ wrote, “If he wanna go to college and get his experience etc. what’s the big deal?? so what he’s rich with a house this is what he is choosing to do Ibs”

Instagram user @m3threex added, “he experiencing something he may never got the chance to, yall be so dramatic ab somebody else lives. let that bby shine”

While Instagram user @callmeacenotmitch wrote, “A black man tryna get his education and people wanna make jokes. Our future is cooked fr”

RELATED: Whew! Toosii Leaves Fans Confused After Announcing His Departure From Syracuse University’s Football Team (VIDEO)

What Do You Think Roomies?

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Jonah Hill Debuts Thinnest Look Ever Amid 200-Pound Weight Loss Journey

Published

2 hours ago

4 February 2026

NewsAdmin

Keanu Reeves, Jonah Hill, Cameron Diaz, and Matt Bomer at the 'Outcome' Premiere

After nearly three years out of the spotlight, Jonah Hill stepped back into public view with “Outcome,” a new Apple TV+ black comedy that marks his return to acting and directing.

The actor recently made a rare red carpet appearance in Santa Monica, looking relaxed and confident as he promoted the film.

During his latest outing, Jonah Hill drew attention due to his massive weight loss journey, which saw him lose about 200 pounds.

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Jonah Hill Shows Slimmer Look At Red Carpet For Apple TV+ Film’ Outcome’

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Hill turned heads due to his thinner look while appearing on the red carpet to promote his new movie, “Outcome,” which he stars in, directs, co-writes, and produces.

The movie boasts an A-list cast including Keanu Reeves, Cameron Diaz, and Matt Bomer, and is set to premiere on April 10.

For the press event, Hill opted for a relaxed but polished look, wearing loose-fitting jeans and a dark sweater.

Though more casual than some of his co-stars, he appeared confident and noticeably slimmer, drawing attention for how sharp and at ease he looked during the appearance.

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The “21 Jump Street” star has long been open about his complicated relationship with his body and public image. At one point weighing close to 280 pounds, Hill’s weight has fluctuated over the years since he began prioritizing his health in the early 2010s.

Fans of the actor commented on his transformation, noting online that he looked “healthy” and “happy.”

One person stated, “Jonah is clearly in the process of living an examined life and taking us for the ride. I’m here for it.”

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The Actor Reflects On Body Image, Maturity, And Personal Growth In 2018 Essay

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In a deeply personal essay published in his Inner Child magazine in 2018, Hill reflected on growing up feeling ashamed of his appearance.

He recalled being labeled “gross” and “unattractive” as a teenager. The actor described still carrying the emotional imprint of his younger self, an insecure 14-year-old who “wanted so badly to be accepted by this community of skaters.”

Hill has also spoken candidly about how his size became tied to his identity as a comedic actor, even as it conflicted with his well-being.

In a 2011 interview after losing weight, Hill explained that getting “healthier came along with maturity, and it’s hard because a lot of times people want you to be the guy you were when they met you.”

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He emphasized that his priorities had shifted toward self-respect, family, and longevity, rather than conforming to a familiar public image.

While Hill has said he still enjoys comedy, his definition of maturity has evolved.

“I’m not living in a frat house with a bong plastered to the table,” he once remarked, per Daily Mail, describing a move away from a reckless, performative lifestyle and toward personal responsibility and self-care.

“I just want to be a good man and to make my family proud. And I want to live a long time.”

Jonah Hill Explores Body Image And Mental Health Struggles In Netflix Documentary ‘Stutz’

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Those internal struggles became a central theme in “Stutz,” Hill’s 2022 Netflix documentary featuring therapist Phil Stutz.

In the film, Hill discussed how diet and exercise were framed to him as a way to “fix” his appearance rather than support mental health, an approach he believes deeply harmed him.

He admitted that being overweight as a child “intensely f-cked” him up and that, despite fame and success, he still wrestles with feelings of “a 14-year-old boy who’s very overweight and has acne and feels very undesirable to the world.”

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The Actor Struggled With Making Public Appearances As It Worsened His Anxiety Attacks

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According to Hill, intense media scrutiny around his body only worsened those insecurities, making him defensive and angry, and preventing him from moving forward emotionally.

Following the documentary’s release, the actor announced he would stop participating in press tours and promotional events.

In a statement, he shared that public appearances had “exacerbated” his anxiety attacks, and stepping back was necessary to protect his mental health.

Hill explained that “Stutz” was created to share therapeutic tools with a wide audience, but continuing to promote it at the expense of his well-being would contradict the film’s message.

Jonah Hill Faced Major Accusations From His Ex-Girlfriend, Sarah Brady

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In 2023, Hill again found himself at the center of public attention when his former girlfriend, Sarah Brady, accused him on social media of being a “misogynist” and a “narcissist.”

The surf instructor shared what she claimed were private text messages from Hill, which appeared to reveal tensions and control issues within their relationship.

Brady, who dated the “Superbad” actor in 2021 for roughly a year, posted screenshots on Instagram that she alleged were sent by Hill during their time together.

The messages reportedly outlined strict conditions he expected her to follow in what he described as a “romantic partnership.”

The posts surfaced just weeks after reports confirmed that Hill had welcomed a child with his current partner, Olivia Millar.

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Brady began releasing the messages via Instagram Stories. One screenshot showed two texts dated December 2, 2021, allegedly sent by Hill.

In the longer message, he reportedly listed behaviors he considered unacceptable if they were to remain together.

According to the screenshots, Hill objected to Brady surfing with men, maintaining certain male friendships, and sharing photos of herself in swimwear on social media. He also allegedly stated that if she felt the need to model, post sexually suggestive images, or continue relationships with women connected to what he described as her “wild recent past,” then he was not the right partner for her.

Despite how controversial things got at the time, Hill never responded to his ex-girlfriend’s allegations, nor did he address the released text messages.

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