Entertainment
8 Brilliant Sci-Fi Shows That Fell Just Short of Being Masterpieces
It should go without saying that a sci-fi show that’s perfect is the dream of every fan of genre television. But a sci-fi show that’s almost perfect—a near-masterpiece, if you will—can be every bit as delightful. There can be a variety of reasons why they don’t quite reach “masterpiece” status. Perhaps they’re a little dated, or they have a couple of narrative mistakes here and there, or they were prematurely cancelled before they could achieve greatness. But no matter what, these are still some of the greatest sci-fi shows ever made.
From classics like the British cult favorite Red Dwarf to modern hidden gems like Colony, these shows come about as close as a TV series can come to true science fiction perfection. Hugely imaginative and creative, full of interesting characters and world-building, and with some of the coolest visuals of any show from their era, these series, whether they’re underappreciated or absolutely legendary, are a must-see for all sci-fi fans.
‘The Peripheral’ (2022)
Loosely based on the 2014 book by William Gibson, Prime Video’s The Peripheral was a tragic victim of the extended duration of the 2023 SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes. But while this left it as one of those sad single-season sci-fi shows that was never allowed to reach their full potential (a category that unfortunately has many exponents), it’s still one of the most underrated sci-fi shows of the 2020s so far.
Starring the incredible Chloë Grace Moretz and executive-produced by Westworld‘s Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy, The Peripheral feels like it was designed for people who love cyberpunk sci-fi and genre slow-burns. Its thought-provoking, deliberately-paced nature may not fully appeal to those who prefer their science fiction action-packed and adrenaline-filled, but for people who have no problem with sci-fi shows that take their time, it’s a must-see.
‘Red Dwarf’ (1988–2020)
The long-running BBC sci-fi comedy Red Dwarf has become a multimedia franchise with almost four decades’ worth of diehard fans, but only 12 seasons of the show have aired. That’s primarily due to the eventual dissolution of the creative partnership between its creators, Rob Grant and Doug Naylor. But even in spite of all the gaps and hiatuses, this is one of those underrated sci-fi shows that are far better than they look.
Red Dwarf can often be delectably campy, pulpy, and imaginative; but at its worst, it can be an atrocious disappointment. After around season six (when the Grant & Naylor split took place), Red Dwarf lost some of the polish that had made it a beloved classic for so long. But even the worst of Red Dwarf episodes are far funnier and more enjoyable than most sci-fi comedies on the air today, and that’s more than enough to still make it worth watching today.
‘The 4400’ (2004–2007)
Yet another exceptional sci-fi show that was canceled due to a WGA strike (this one in 2007), The 4400 is nevertheless one of the best TV series the genre had to offer during the 2000s. The show felt like a direct response to the general national mood in the U.S. post 9/11, at least tonally, and it kept that atmosphere throughout the entirety of its run. That may make it sound like it reads more like a product of its time nowadays, but in fact, The 4400 is still every bit as enjoyable in 2026 as it was back in 2004.
It was always surprisingly ambitious for a CW science fiction show, often feeling more like the kind of prestige genre television you’d expect to find somewhere like HBO. Sometimes the pacing isn’t great, and the drama can feel a little forced, but the vast majority of the time, The 4400 remained a show taut in its writing, memorable in its performances, and exceptionally entertaining in its creativity and originality.
‘Colony’ (2016–2018)
Colony was created by House of the Dragon creator Ryan Condal and former Lost showrunner Carlton Cuse. It starred Lost‘s Josh Holloway and The Walking Dead‘s Sarah Wayne Callies. With a pedigree like that, it’s no wonder this was such a beloved and acclaimed show throughout pretty much all of its run, a run which came to a tragic end after three seasons due to declining viewership and rising production costs.
In all honesty, sci-fi fans failed Colony. In it, they had one of the best-written, thought-provoking, and intelligent genre shows on network television, and that made its untimely conclusion all the more of a tragedy. The series was never perfect, since it sometimes felt a little too derivative of alien invasion classics like V; but it was the kind of sci-fi show that only kept getting better and more engrossing as it went along, and fans continue to be disappointed that the story wasn’t allowed to continue.
‘Stranger Things’ (2016–2025)
The elephant in the room must be addressed: Yes, the main reason why Stranger Things loses its right to hold the “masterpiece” status that one may argue it held after Season 4’s conclusion is how underwhelming its final season was. But those willing to look past a disappointing ending will find themselves treated to one of the most prestigious, creative, and nostalgic sci-fi shows of the 21st century thus far.
Stranger Things is the kind of sci-fi show so nearly-perfect that it should never be remade. The casting is phenomenal, the visuals are out of this world, and the homage that the writing team constantly paid to movies, shows, and pop culture from the ’80s was always a delight. Emotionally engaging and full of compelling characters, Stranger Things deserved a better ending. Even though it didn’t get it, it’s still one of the most entertaining genre shows from recent years.
‘The Mandalorian’ (2019–2023)
Ever since Star Wars: Ewoks and Star Wars: Droids debuted together on the same fateful day in 1985, the televisual dimension of the Star Wars franchise had been exclusively limited to animation. It wasn’t until 2019, years after Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm and just a month before the conclusion of the Skywalker Saga with The Rise of Skywalker, that the galaxy far, far away made the jump to live-action television with The Mandalorian.
Though the series’ third (and latest) season was disappointing, it still had its moments; and the first couple of seasons were top-tier Star Wars content. It’s one of the most nearly-perfect shows on Disney+, a bounty-hunting space adventure that takes full advantage of its episodic format while still having plenty of serialized elements to keep viewers engaged. It’s exciting, full of great additions to the Star Wars lore, and packed with references and Easter eggs that fans will surely appreciate.
‘The Boys’ (2019–Present)
Highly divisive and very often criticized, Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson‘s The Boys comic book series wasn’t exactly the kind of source material that made it easy to make a masterful show. And yet, from the moment Prime Video’s show of the same name started streaming, fans knew that not only were they in for a series considerably superior to the comics it was based on, but also potentially one of the greatest superhero shows ever made.
The Boys is one of those action TV shows that are like an adrenaline rush from start to finish, full of dark humor and clever satire poking fun at the superhero genre, Hollywood, and modern American society. While its jokes don’t always land, its edginess doesn’t always feel organic, and its later seasons have gotten clunkier in certain spots, it’s still one of the most exciting and entertaining social and political satires currently on television. Whether its final season will be able to stick the landing and bring it closer to full-fledged “masterpiece” territory remains to be seen as of the time of writing this article.
‘Star Trek: The Original Series’ (1966–1969)
In 1964, long-time sci-fi fan Gene Roddenberry came up with the idea for a TV series about the crew of a large spaceship exploring the galaxy. That idea eventually transformed into Star Trek (now retroactively subtitled The Original Series), a show that, from the day it first aired in September 1966, was far ahead of its time. It’s an iconic gem whose unmistakable style, optimistic and hopeful approach to the genre, and social and political progressiveness have become so immensely influential that it feels weird adding the word “nearly” before “perfect” when talking about it.
In all fairness, however, it’s more than fair to say that almost everything that The Original Series does well has been done slightly better by some other Star Trek property that came after. But if there’s any show which proves that being an almost-masterpiece doesn’t mean it’s any less impactful or iconic, it’s this one. Star Trek: The Original Series is a cornerstone of science fiction history and a must-see for all those who love the genre, a classic full of entertaining stories and with one of the best ensemble casts in television history. Sci-fi wouldn’t be what it is today without it.
Star Trek: The Original Series
- Release Date
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1966 – 1969-00-00
- Showrunner
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Gene Roddenberry
- Directors
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Marc Daniels, Joseph Pevney, Ralph Senensky, Vincent McEveety, Herb Wallerstein, Jud Taylor, Marvin J. Chomsky, David Alexander, Gerd Oswald, Herschel Daugherty, James Goldstone, Robert Butler, Anton Leader, Gene Nelson, Harvey Hart, Herbert Kenwith, James Komack, John Erman, John Newland, Joseph Sargent, Lawrence Dobkin, Leo Penn, Michael O’Herlihy, Murray Golden
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Less than two weeks before his death, Norris shared a video kickboxing online celebrating his 86th birthday.
Vampires of the Velvet Lounge feels distinctly like a made-for-TV movie that would have aired on the Sci-Fi Channel in the middle of the night in the late ’90s. It’s the kind of campy vampire horror that might’ve once faded into distant memory, bleeding into the fever-dream era of Blood Ties or Forever Knight — the kind of titles only revisited while falling down an IMDb rabbit hole of long-forgotten titles.
While that era of filmmaking may have had its fair share of questionable scripts, they never felt like they were engineered for the moment your attention drifts. Vampires of the Velvet Lounge is perhaps one of the most egregious examples of preemptively preparing for second-screen viewing. Even Netflix’s intentionally “dumbed down” scripts aren’t as hamfisted and lazy with their dialogue. Despite knowing each other for — quite literally — centuries, the aforementioned vampires of the Velvet Lounge take a moment to detail what type of blood they prefer, how long they’ve been vampires, and what their individual modus operandi is upon their first introduction on screen.
‘Vampires of the Velvet Lounge’ Rehashes Familiar Tropes
The first twenty minutes are dedicated almost entirely to establishing the film’s lore. Through a series of intertitles, writer-director Adam Sherman reworks Countess Elizabeth Báthory’s alleged crimes as the origin story for his vampire mythology. It’s a familiar hook, and one that never quite evolves beyond its surface-level appeal. The opening credits — which are shockingly long — aim to evoke the glory days of television, something akin to Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s iconic, never-skip intro. The difference is that Buffy gave you a reason to care. Vampires of the Velvet Lounge offers a parade of blood-soaked imagery without any emotional investment to anchor it.
Here, Elizabeth (Mena Suvari) and her coven have relocated to Savannah, Georgia, where they operate a back-alley absinthe bar. Alongside Joan (India Eisley), a grizzled, blood-covered enforcer (Mark Boone Junior), and a sultry accomplice (Sarah Dumont), they lure unsuspecting victims via webcam dating schemes. It’s a genuinely fun premise — one that should lean into camp and absurdity, but it somehow lands flat. Even with scene-stealing supporting players like Timothy V. Murphy, Stephen Dorff, and
Tyrese Gibson, the execution never quite matches the potential.
Naturally, a coven needs opposition. Enter Cora (Dichen Lachman), a former assassin turned gun-for-hire who’s been attempting to lure Elizabeth into a trap through an online romance. Lachman’s performance leans toward a Sin City-style stoicism, but it reads as flat more than hardened. The script does her no favors. Despite her character’s narrative importance, Cora is largely sidelined, appearing briefly to bookend a midpoint that collapses under the weight of the film’s disastrously bad mid-point. For an actor coming off the critical acclaim of Severance, it’s a frustratingly underwritten role.
‘Vampires of the Velvet Lounge’ Fails Its Cast of Characters
Sherman leans heavily into the aesthetics of the genres that inspired him, but often misses what made them work. There are flashes of visual appeal, particularly in the production design of Elizabeth’s bar and Cora’s apartment. But Sherman undercuts himself by being all Tarantino and no Rodriguez. The film’s female characters lack personalities beyond being man-eating vampires that look like demonic green fairies (a poor attempt to riff on the iconography of absinthe). Cora’s roommate (Rosa Salazar) fares even worse. She’s inexplicably staged in a constant state of undress, pacing the apartment in her underwear while discussing her dating life, lifting weights, and bending directly into the camera’s distinctly male gaze. It all feels voyeuristic for the sake of voyeurism, lacking any narrative or stylistic justification. It’s not even provocative.
Lachman brings her usual screen presence, but the script gives her little to work with beyond surface-level traits, leaving her performance feeling one-note through no fault of her own. It’s a missed opportunity, especially in a film that could have benefited from more dynamic character interplay. The potential queerness of her character — particularly where allusions to a deeper interest in her roommate and something more than just a farce with Elizabeth — are nothing more than implications, rather than anything actually character-impacting.
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Within all of this, there are flashes of something better. Most notably in India Eisley’s performance. Eisley stands out immediately, bringing a level of emotional commitment that the rest of the film struggles to match. It helps that her character is the only one with internal conflict and something resembling a fully trackable narrative arc. While the script gives her the same exposition-heavy material as everyone else, she manages to ground it, finding moments of genuine feeling in scenes that might otherwise fall flat. There’s a sense that she’s working through the limitations of the writing rather than being supported by it, and the result is a performance that feels like it belongs to a more cohesive, more intentional version of this movie.
It’s not that Eisley transforms the film (there’s only so much one performance can do), but she does provide a glimpse of what Vampires of the Velvet Lounge could have been with stronger character work and a clearer sense of direction.
‘Vampires of the Velvet Lounge’ a Future Cult Classic?
Even for vampire B-movie connoisseurs who are used to turning off their brains to enjoy a visually appealing and well-acted movie, Vampires of the Velvet Lounge may be a stretch. The plot makes no sense, and the visuals — particularly when Elizabeth and Joan (Eisley) go for a joy ride through Savannah — are grotesquely bad. The horror is also a non-starter, and largely blood and gore for the sake of blood and gore, with illogical deaths and questionable visual effects.
From a storytelling perspective, Vampires of the Velvet Lounge is so aggressively reliant on exposition that it’s almost unbearable. Characters don’t reveal themselves through action or subtext; they explain themselves, repeatedly. Motivations are spelled out, then restated, then reiterated again, as if the script is constantly checking to make sure viewers are still loosely following along. It’s not just “tell with no show,” it’s tell, then tell again for good measure.
While Vampires of the Velvet Lounge is undeniably a mess that is plagued by clunky dialogue, uneven performances, and distractingly bad visual effects, it’s also oddly watchable. In the same way that you can’t quite help but look back as you drive past a car accident. The film desperately wants to be seen as a grindhouse-inspired vampire romp that gestures towards camp and pulp, and the hazy glory days of sexy vampires lurking in neon-bathed nightclubs, but it settles into something more modern: background noise cinema. As it stands, Vampires of the Velvet Lounge is exactly what it seems to be: a messy, mildly entertaining vampire movie that works best when you’re only half watching it.
Vampires of the Velvet Lounge is now playing in theaters.
Vampires of the Velvet Lounge
A wannabe grindhouse vampire horror that has been completely defanged.
- Release Date
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March 20, 2026
- Runtime
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105 Minutes
- Director
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Adam Sherman
Cast
Pros & Cons
- India Eisley delivers a grounded, emotionally compelling performance throughout the film.
- Vampires of the Velvet Lounge’s campy, pulpy premise has moments of fun despite the film?s many flaws.
- Repetitive, exposition-heavy dialogue constantly explains instead of showing why audiences should care about the film’s cast of characters.
- Vampires of the Velvet Lounge features a nonsensical, poorly structured plot with little payoff or coherence.
- Male gaze-heavy framing feels gratuitous and adds nothing to the story and takes away the potential of the female cast of characters.
- Dichen Lachman is severely underutilized in a flat, underwritten role, which is a shame because she’s a brilliant actress.
Sometimes it’s the quiet decisions behind the scenes that say the most about growth—and Yaya Mayweather is opening up about one of hers when it comes to raising her son, KJ. The young mom recently shared a glimpse into how she’s been moving lately, making it clear that her father Floyd Mayweather Jr. —and intention—are at the center of it all.
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Yaya Mayweather Prioritizes Father-Son Bond For KJ
On Thursday, Yaya took to X to speak on the role her father, Floyd Mayweather Jr., plays in her son KJ’s life. She revealed that she’s been prioritizing more intentional time between the two, writing, “as of lately i’ve been making sure my son spends more intentional time with MY dad because he needs to be around more male energy.” She continued by emphasizing the importance of that presence, adding that having “influence, structure, and support from a man in his life is important for his growth.” Her message quickly sparked conversation online, with many weighing in on the importance of strong family dynamics and positive male influence in a child’s upbringing.
Comment Section Goes Off Over Yaya’s Post
Meanwhile, folks ran straight to The Shade Room’s Instagram comment section and had plenty to say. Some users shared that having his grandfather around is all KJ really needs, while others pointed out how lucky Yaya is to have such a present and supportive father in her life. A few even chimed in to say this might be one of the best things they’ve heard her say so far.
One Instagram user, @tramell1, said, “Best this I ever heard her say in a long time“
This Instagram user @diamond227 added, “That all he needs …that baby lights up like the 4 of July when he see his grandpa 🥰🥰🥰🥹🥹😍😍”
And, Instagram user @luvie_darling wrote, “He’s blessed he has his grandfather in his life. ❤️”
Meanwhile, Instagram user @gwunhunit shared, “That lil boy last name should’ve been Maywheather“
While Instagram user @sicilian_luv commented, “Baby you didn’t even have to explain this. Grandpas really matter regardless 🙏❤️”
Finally, Instagram user @tanyadazzle1 added, “She’s trying to tell us that NBA doesn’t spend any time with Junior.😂😂😂”
Floyd Shows No Chill When It Comes To Grandbaby KJ
And, of course, you already know Floyd doesn’t play when it comes to his grandbaby. Video clips from KJ’s birthday celebration back in January show him walking into a Shoot 360 basketball club blindfolded, only to pull it off and realize the entire setup was crafted just for him. Seconds later, the birthday boy ran straight into the arms of his legendary grandfather as the room erupted in cheers. Meanwhile, Grandma Melissia Rene captured every priceless moment on camera, making sure the heartwarming exchange lives online forever.
The Mayweather crew went all out for the family photo, turning the moment into an unforgettable style flex. KJ and Yaya rocked matching Golden State Warriors blue and yellow jerseys, Floyd sported a Brooklyn Nets jersey, and Melissia looked flawless in a black-striped Orlando Magic jersey. All four held up five fingers to celebrate KJ turning five, a sweet, iconic snapshot that fans are already gushing over online.
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What Do You Think Roomies?
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If you’ve got spring or summer travel plans on the calendar, now’s the time to start prepping. The right luggage, backpacks and travel accessories can make all the difference when it comes to staying organized at the airport and having an easy, stress-free trip.
Ahead of Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, which runs from March 25 to 31, the online retailer is already rolling out a ton of incredible deals sitewide— including carry-on and checked suitcases, totes, and everything else you could possibly need to pack for your next adventure. We took the liberty of rounding up some of the standout picks worth adding to your Amazon cart right now. No matter where you’re headed this summer, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you have all the right travel gear.
17 Luggage and Travel Deals Before Amazon’s Big Spring Sale
Luggage
1. First Class: Your luggage doesn’t need to be expensive to look expensive, like this chic Delsey carry-on complete with top-tier spinner wheels — was $320, now $210!
2. Pretty In Pink: Add a little pop of color to your itinerary with this adorable Herschel hardshell 32-inch suitcase made from 70% recycled materials — was $330, now $231!
3. Rough & Rugged: If durability is your first priority this rolling duffle from Pelican is about to become your new travel buddy for adventures near and far — was $380, now $190!
4. TSA-Approved: This expandable carry-on suitcase from Samsonite has over 12,000 five-star reviews, comes in over a dozen colors and is scratch-resistant — was $220, now $130!
5. For Overpackers: Bring plenty of outfit options in this expandable checked suitcase that comes with interior straps and mesh pockets to keep you organized — was $200, now $65!
6. 3-Piece Set: Pack for your whole family in this matching luggage set, complete with cup holder and USB port to charge your phone — was $249, now $171!
Totes
7. Cool Carry-On: This expandable puffer work tote from Bagsmart is incredibly practical and also totally on trend, plus it comes in so many cute colors— was $40, now $28!
8. Cute & Quilted: Vera Bradley’s lightweight tote is ideal for long travel days because not only is it cute, but the soft material makes it comfortable to carry and it’s roomy to boot — was $100, now $40!
9. Office-Ready: If you need to deplane and immediately head into a meeting, this Kate Spade tote pulls double duty as a cute carry on and everyday work bag — was $248, now $149!
10. Ultra Lightweight: Every ounce counts when you’re packing, and this expandable tote is virtually weightless and incredibly spacious — was $60, now $35!
11. Everyday Essential: A classic tote that goes with everything, this Michael Kors bag is super versatile: style it was a handbag, a work bag or your airplane carry-on — was $228, now $128!
12. Polished & Packable: Sometimes you need a tote bag once you arrive at your destination, and this ultra-thin option from Bagstmart totally fits the bill — was $30, now $19!
Backpacks
13. Large Capacity: If you want to avoid checking a bag, this Osprey backpack has plenty of room to pick up some slack from your carry-on suitcase and it also doubles as a great weekender bag — was $220, now $132!
14. Timeless Staple: JanSport backpacks never go out of style, and this updated version has a laptop sleeve that can carry computers up to 15 inches — was $67, now $47!
15. Plenty of Pockets: Staying organized is key when traveling, and there’s where this brilliantly designed Baggalini backpack comes in handy. Plus, it’s water resistant! — was $145, now $66!
16. Low Profile: Transport only the essentials in this slim backpack from Bellroy that slides easily under the seat in front of you — was $259, now $179!
17. Commuter-Friendly: If your backpack primarily serves to get you to and from work, this handy everyday bag from North Face does the trick, and it comes in so many colors — was $75, now $67!
Amazon’s Winter Sale just reminded Us that rich mom travel style doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. Running now through January 11, the shopping event is serving all kinds of polished, expensive-looking travel pieces that look straight out of an airport paparazzi shot. Think: oversized sunnies, chic carry-ons and cozy layers that […]
Roomies, you never expect a routine town hall to take a tragic turn. And that’s exactly what happened in Nampa, Idaho, this week. Rick Hogaboam, the city’s recently elected mayor, suffered a medical emergency while speaking at City Hall. Tragically, he was pronounced dead, leaving the community and colleagues in shock.
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Mayor Hogaboam Collapses At Town Hall, Tragedy Strikes
The incident unfolded on Wednesday evening at around 6:45 p.m. local time, during a town hall meeting in Eagle, Idaho. Hogaboam had been sitting near Eagle Mayor Brad Pike, a former firefighter, when the emergency occurred. Pike quickly jumped into action, administering CPR, while staff called 911, and the meeting was immediately adjourned. Local authorities responded swiftly, but tragically, Hogaboam could not be revived.
Nampa Confirms Mayor’s Sudden Passing
The City of Nampa confirmed the shocking news in a statement on Facebook, urging residents to keep the mayor’s family in their prayers. “It is with the deepest sadness that we must report Mayor Rick Hogaboam experienced a medical emergency tonight and has passed away,” the post read. “As we begin to mourn this unbelievable loss, please provide grace while we navigate the loss of not only our Mayor, but also our friend.”
Colleagues Speak Out And Remember Mayor Hogaboam
Hogaboam, who was sworn in as Nampa’s 31st mayor on January 5, 2026, was remembered by colleagues as a dedicated public servant and family man. The Treasure Valley Partnership, a coalition of mayors and county commissioners across Idaho, called him “an exemplary public servant, a dedicated family man, and a true friend.” The group also added that they’re “heartbroken to have lost one of our esteemed colleagues.” He leaves behind his spouse, children, and grandchildren. Furthermore, with the Nampa community now in mourning, officials have called an emergency meeting to appoint an interim mayor.
RELATED: Wayment! New Orleans Mayor Indicted Over Allegations Of Trying To Hide Relationship With Her Bodyguard
What Do You Think Roomies?
One year ago, the DCU was hardly off the ground yet with the release of Superman. Sure, the universe had already technically launched with the animated series, Creature Commandos, but it wasn’t until Superman that fans began to see the vision in James Gunn’s head for his rival to the MCU. The first project to follow Superman in the live-action DCU was Peacemaker, the John Cena-led mature comic book series that aired its second season late last year. The first season was set in the older DCEU, but it only took a few light retcons to ensure fans knew the second season of the series takes place firmly alongside Superman. Peacemaker Season 2 was years in the making, and considering the exceptional critical reception to Season 1, it was considered one of the most anticipated TV returns of 2025.
Peacemaker mostly lived up to the hype until its Season 2 return, doing well enough to earn scores of 94% from critics on the aggregate site Rotten Tomatoes. Although the audience-driven Popcornmeter fell to a much more underwhelming 79%, this hasn’t stopped fans from inquiring about the future of the show. HBO has yet to publicly confirm that Peacemaker has been renewed for Season 3, and James Gunn has also been eerily silent on the topic — strange, considering he’s known as one of the most transparent executives/creatives in Hollywood regarding the workings of his cinematic universe. John Cena’s Peacemaker co-star, Freddie Stroma, was recently asked by The Direct about the status of Peacemaker Season 3. He provided a disappointing update about his return as Vigilante: “I’ve had zero discussions,” he said. “People always say, ‘Oh, you wouldn’t tell us anyway!’ But I genuinely have no idea. I wish I could act all coy, but I genuinely don’t know.”
What Does This Mean for the Future of ‘Peacemaker’?
While this doesn’t explicitly confirm that Peacemaker has been canceled, it is undeniably disappointing to know that there is no concrete plan in place for the return of the show. Right now, it seems more likely that the characters from Peacemaker will show up in a larger team-up film, such as Man of Tomorrow. Cena’s Christopher Smith already had a small cameo in Superman, and several characters from the film appeared in Peacemaker Season 2. Gunn certainly has plans for one of his most popular characters.
Check out the first two seasons of Peacemaker on HBO Max and stay tuned to Collider for more potential updates on Season 3 of the series.
- Release Date
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2022 – 2025-00-00
- Network
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HBO Max, Max
- Directors
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James Gunn, Brad Anderson, Rosemary Rodriguez
There’s a specific kind of post-episode silence that Black Mirror leaves you in. Not shock — sometimes shock — but more like a modest recalibration. You glance at your phone, hesitate, and wonder if we’ve already gone too far. Lately, that feeling’s been harder to come by.
Which is where SF8 slips in— not with the same cultural chokehold — but with enough strange, unsettling ideas to remind you why this genre works when it’s allowed to breathe a little.
‘SF8’ Is a Sci-Fi Anthology Built on Big Ideas—and Even Bigger ‘What Ifs’
At its core, SF8 is doing something deceptively simple with eight standalone stories, each orbiting the same uneasy question: What happens when technology gets just a little too close to us? Not in a vague, hand-wavy way, but in a way that could actually happen, and maybe sooner than we’d like.
One episode imagines an AI-powered fortune-telling service that people begin to treat as gospel — because, of course, they do. Another traps a disgraced streamer inside a virtual reality system she can’t quite control (and maybe doesn’t deserve to). Next up is a dating app episode, which is probably the stickiest episode. Users can present an idealized version of themselves in VR, then freak out when they have to be vulnerable in real life.
This is not simply a series that goes into heavier territory, such as resurrecting your dead family members via AI or handing off caregiving to robots that help maintain existing social hierarchies; these are merely speculative concepts to create spectacle and are difficult moral dilemmas.
Why ‘SF8’ Feels Like a Worthy Successor to ‘Black Mirror’
Despite its truth, calling SF8 the “Korean Black Mirror” doesn’t tell the whole story. Yes, the DNA is obvious: anthology format, tech-driven narratives, that lingering sense of unease. But where Black Mirror often leans into bleak inevitability (sometimes to the point of exhaustion, depending on who you ask), SF8 takes a slightly different route, being more curious about its characters than the alternative.
Because each episode is helmed by a different filmmaker, the tone swings more freely — sometimes dramatically so. One story might feel like a quiet character study; the next leans into thriller territory; another drifts into something almost romantic, before pulling the rug out. It’s not always seamless because a couple of episodes wobble, but that unpredictability keeps you engaged in a way that more uniform anthologies sometimes don’t.
The Episodes That Linger (For Better or Worse)
Anthologies live and die by their individual installments, and SF8 — to its credit — has a few that really stick. “Joan’s Galaxy” tends to be a standout for many viewers, the kind of episode that balances concept and emotion without tipping too far into either. “The Prayer,” meanwhile, leans colder, more clinical — robotic caregivers, power dynamics, the quiet horror of systems that don’t care if they’re fair. And then there’s “Love Virtually,” which — on paper — sounds almost light. A VR dating app where you can look like anyone? Sure, fun, until it isn’t, and identity starts slipping, and the gap between who you are and who you present yourself as becomes unbearable.
The final episode, “Empty Body,” goes somewhere else entirely. It’s uncomfortable, strange, and asks whether bringing someone back — digitally, artificially — is an act of love or something closer to cruelty. There’s no easy answer, and the show doesn’t pretend there is.
Not every episode hits the same high, and yeah, a couple feel like they needed another pass in the writer’s room, but even the weaker ones have ideas that linger. You’ll find yourself circling back to them later. SF8 leaves you in that same post-episode silence Black Mirror specializes in — just with a slightly different emotional texture, and that, to me, makes it worth the watch.
SF8
- Release Date
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2020 – 2020-00-00
- Network
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MBC, wavve
- Directors
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Oh Ki-hwan, Min Kyu-dong, Jang Cheol-soo, Ahn Gooc-jin, Roh Deok, Lee Yoon-jeong, Kim Ui-seok
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Want to know how to quickly fix the winter blues? Getting spring fashion inspiration helps. (It fools my brain into thinking it’s warmer, seriously!) I’m upgrading my warm weather wardrobe STAT after seeing Jennifer Lopez step out in a romantic satin slip dress.
Lopez’s version of the satin slip gown is going to be everywhere by spring, and it’s very different from your run-of-the-mill slip dress with spaghetti straps. This rendition features pretty capped sleeves for a more feminine effect. The singer’s dress, which costs over $4,000, also has some dainty lace detailing. If you love the vibe but want something you can wear daily in the summer, the Vubiya Satin Flutter Sleeve Gown is a fabulous option at under $50.
Get the Vubiya Satin Flutter Sleeve Gown for $49 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Whether you’re anticipating warm-weather date nights, attending a wedding or simply want an elevated dress to wear any time, this girly pick is one of the best. The sleek, shiny fabric hugs your body in all the right places, and while it looks gorgeous from the front, the open tied back is also totally swoon-worthy.
Depending on the accessories you pair with this dainty dress, you can completely change the vibe. The color also makes a major impact. We’re partial to the baby pink, but with 21 options — including rich jewel-toned hues and pretty neutrals — there’s something that will match your personality.
We’ll be the first to admit that satiny dresses can be hit or miss, but hundreds of Amazon shoppers have waxed poetic about the quality of this design.
“Such a flattering dress!” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I felt SO confident in it, and can still wear pretty much any bra with it! The dress is very silky but doesn’t soak up a ton of sweat so perfect for those summer weddings! Not incredibly stretchy but a tiny bit of give. A comfy dress that can be very dressed up or dressed down, so very versatile.”
Start manifesting the warmer weather by grabbing the Vubiya Satin Flutter Sleeve Gown ASAP. Summer will be here before you know it!
Get the Vubiya Satin Flutter Sleeve Gown for $49 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more from Vubiya here and more satin gowns here! Don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
According to a new report, Bravo has decided to put “The Real Housewives of Miami” on pause. Of course, as “RHOM” fans know, this is the second time the show has suffered this fate, the first being in 2013, before it returned to Peacock in 2021. Now, following the report, original cast member Alexia Nepola is reacting. Plus, Stephanie Shojaee, who was new for season seven, is also reacting.
The main cast for the latest season of “RHOM” also included housewives Larsa Pippen, Lisa Hochstein, Guerdy Abraira, and Julia Lemigova. The season also featured friends of the show Adriana de Moura, Marysol Patton, and Kiki Barth.
Alexia Nepola Reacts To ‘The Real Housewives Of Miami’ Cancellation
Nepola took to her official Instagram account on March 19 to offer her thoughts on “The Real Housewives of Miami” being cancelled. She did so by posting a series of photos of herself from over the years. Nepola then penned an emotional statement on the end of the show in its current form.
The “RHOM” star began, “As a proud Latina, being part of a platform like RHOM on Bravo has always meant more to me than just reality television—it’s meant visibility, representation, and having a voice. Hearing that the show is currently on pause is disheartening, and it’s hard not to feel the weight of that. Opportunities like this are rare, and they matter.”
From there, she explained how the production pause could benefit the series. According to her, “At the same time, I truly believe that a pause can create space for something even greater. I’ve always felt this show plays an important role in celebrating Latin voices, and that’s something I will always carry with me. I’m staying positive, present, and hopeful for what’s ahead.”
She continued, “Miami will always be at the heart of my story, and I’m so grateful to Bravo, NBC, and POP for allowing our city to shine on a global stage.”
After that, she concluded, “This isn’t goodbye… It’s simply see you soon.”
Stephanie Shojaee Also Shared Her Thoughts On ‘RHOM’
Shojaee joined “RHOM” as a primary cast member ahead of the show’s seventh season, which aired in 2025. Now, following the report of Bravo putting the show on pause, she’s taken to Instagram stories to react and criticize the show’s scheduling. Luckily, the Queens of Bravo Instagram page captured her comments.
She said, “Life is about timing, and airing during peak summer travel was far from ideal!! Really though, summer?” The “RHOM” star went on to express her disappointment, especially given that “strong Latina voices deserve a spotlight that’s still lacking.”
Shojaee continued, “But Maimi always finds its way back. For now, I’ll be keeping up with everyone’s crazy lives. I love the girls, and meeting them will always be the best part of RHOM.”
Fans Are Reacting To The ‘RHOM’ Cast’s Comments
“The Real Housewives of Miami” ranked as the lowest-watched of the hit Bravo franchise. However, the show had loyal fans, many of whom felt it ranked higher than more popular series in terms of quality. Because of this, fans are in an uproar.
One person said on Instagram, “The way they pause ‘Miami’ when it literally had the BEST season yet, while ‘Beverly Hills’ is genuinely a snooze fest and still gets treated like royalty by @bravo. The math isn’t mathing.”
Someone else said, “Imagine canceling your most vibrant, culturally rich, and wildly entertaining franchise… couldn’t be me.”
Another disheartened “RHOM” fan wrote, “I don’t understand it. Miami is one of the BEST hw franchises!!” “RHOM” star Patton commented, “That’s right.”
Why Is Bravo Pausing ‘RHOM?’
Variety released its report about “The Real Housewives of Miami” being canceled on March 18. In it, the outlet stated that a source close to the show had informed them that Bravo had decided not to move forward with the show at this time due to low viewership.
The report also noted that, while still strong, season seven of “RHOM” wasn’t among the best in the show’s history, and that there had been rumors of multiple cast members being fired. Regarding viewership, according to TV Deets, season seven premiered with 290,000 viewers.
The season later peaked at 324,000 viewers, but the show also delivered series lows in both viewership and its most important demographic: viewers aged 18-49.
Alexia Nepola Told Andy Cohen The Show Was Bravo’s Stepchild
Fans of “RHOM” have long felt that Bravo failed to give the show the same promotion and attention as it does for other “Real Housewives” shows. Now, one of Nepola’s appearances on “Watch What Happens Live” has resuraced in which she discusses how she felt the show was treated by the network.
Notably, she stated in the clip that it was the “RHOM” premiere night, yet she was seated in the second chair instead of the one closest to host Andy Cohen.
According to her, “I always feel like Miami is like the stepchildren.” After that, Garcelle Beauvais, who was on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” offered to switch seats with the “RHOM” star.
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There are some fashion finds so good that even celebrities can’t resist getting in on the trend — and that’s exactly the case with the Adidas Sambas. They’re an everyday shoe that has earned its spot as the everyday shoe. Hilary Duff wore them recently, and Taylor Swift is even a fan of the timeless style.
This OG shoe has been around for over 50 years. It came about thanks to a soccer game, where the sneaker performed well on icy patches, according to the Adidas website. Over the years, Sambas have been updated to introduce better features and functionality. It suddenly was no longer a soccer shoe but a fashionable, easy-to-style pick that both men and women gravitate toward.
Both Duff and Swift chose the classic black base with white stripes option, but there’s also the inverted colorway available. While the sneakers can be worn for cycling and light gym training, you’ll notice that many people wear them for casual wear and as part of their fashion choices. Duff wore her pair with sweatpants and a long-sleeve striped shirt, and Swift paired them with black shorts and a pink T-shirt. But you could easily wear them with a dress, leggings and anything in between.
Get Adidas Unisex Samba Shoes for $95 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Available in unisex sizes ranging from 4 men/5 women to 13.5 men/14.5 women, Sambas feature a leather upper with suede overlays. It has ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) insoles, which provide a lightweight, cushioned place for your foot. The rubber outsoles are particularly best suited for indoor surfaces.
There’s a reason that adidas Sambas have become such a popular everyday shoe. They have a way of making every outfit just a little bit cooler while offering lightweight comfort.
“These adidas Sambas are truly one of the best shoes you could get” a verified purchaser shared. “They feel soft and are cushioned and flexible, so they are perfect for daily wear. They are super stylish and work with basically any outfit — dressy, cute or casual.”
“I didn’t know what all the hype was behind this shoe before, but now I understand,” another happy shopper wrote. “As soon as I slipped these on, I became an instant fan. They’re lightweight and fit my feet like a glove. I wasn’t expecting them to be so comfortable despite having zero padding, cushioning or support on the inside.”
Duff and Swift are just two fans of Adidas Sambas, but they prove that they’re a shoe made for everyone, no matter what’s on the calendar for the day!
Get Adidas Unisex Samba Shoes for $95 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more casual sneakers here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
If you’ve even caught a glimpse of Taylor Swift performing on the Eras tour, you know she’s not afraid of dancing in heels all night. However, before she gets to the glittery outfits and boots, she rehearses in the comfortable Adidas Streettalk Sneakers. They’re similar to the style that Swift can be seen wearing in […]
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