Entertainment
8 Most Important Sci-Fi Shows That Define the Genre
Every genre of television has a fascinating history and a long trajectory of some of the medium’s greatest masterpieces, but few genres have ever produced as many groundbreaking shows as science fiction. From classics like Doctor Who to modern gems like Lost, there are several small-screen sci-fi masterpieces which can be counted among the most important shows of their time.
These are all great shows, but they’re far more than just that: They’re also seminal works of science fiction that have helped to define the way the genre looks on television. Whether it’s thanks to their stories, their style, their technical qualities, or their structure, these eight shows are the most important in the history of televisual sci-fi, and all fans of the genre should consider them essential viewing.
‘Doctor Who’ (1963–Present)
Back in 1963, the world was introduced to Doctor Who, a family adventure show about an alien (played by William Hartnell) traveling through time and space with his companions. Originally devised as an educational show aimed at children, the series slowly started to transform into something far more universal. As soon as viewers across the United Kingdom and the rest of the world got to see Hartnell’s First Doctor transform into Patrick Troughton‘s incarnation of the character, the sci-fi game was changed forever.
No matter how one ranks its versions of the Time Lord, there’s no denying that Doctor Who has remained revolutionary throughout its whole run. Aside from its use of regeneration as a plot device perfect for keeping itself fresh, which has made it the longest-running sci-fi show in television history, the show has also constantly been ahead of the curve with its campy tone, imaginative stories, and progressive heart. Doctor Who has far transcended the British television screen and turned into a global pop culture phenomenon like no other.
‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ (1995–1996)
No conversation about anime television or animated science fiction could be complete without at least a mention of Neon Genesis Evangelion. It’s one of the best ’90s anime show masterpieces, an auteur-driven masterwork created by the brilliant Hideaki Anno. The show’s favoring of a slow-paced, philosophically-charged deconstruction of the mecha genre over an action-packed narrative makes it a terrible gateway point for anime beginners, but those already on the medium’s typical wavelength ought to check out Eva at least once in their lives.
On top of helping to popularize anime television globally, Neon Genesis Evangelion is one of the most radically re-defining sci-fi shows in history. Blending sci-fi concepts with surrealism, philosophy, and a slow sense of rhythm, it showed that sci-fi could be the home of more thoughtful and methodically-told stories than audiences were used to. Three decades after its conclusion, watching still feels like you’re experiencing a crucial pillar of the genre.
‘Lost’ (2004–2010)
From Westworld to Stranger Things to Severance, mystery box shows have been all the rage since around the early 2010s. It was arguably a certain other show that really pioneered the mystery box category, which defines shows featuring large and hyper-complex narratives reliant on underlying mysteries tying it all together. But if there was any show that solidified the mystery box genre as a respectable and hugely popular branch of science fiction, it was Lost.
Jeffrey Lieber, J. J. Abrams, and Damon Lindelof‘s groundbreaking ensemble show immediately proved to be one of the most game-changing sci-fi shows that rewrote genre rules. Whether it did or did not jump the shark in its final season is beside the point here—Lost was a massive pop-cultural phenomenon across the globe during its run, introducing countless people to the potential magic of sci-fi. Virtually every mystery sci-fi show that has been made after 2004 owes something to Lost.
‘Battlestar Galactica’ (2004–2009)
There are some sci-fi shows that shouldn’t be remade, and then there are others which beg for a modernization of some kind. The fun-but-dated Battlestar Galactica from the ’70s belonged to the latter group. After an incredible 2003 miniseries, the 2004 revival of the same title didn’t just revitalize and revolutionize the Battlestar franchise—it re-defined modern science fiction as a whole. Here, Dwight Schrute (Rainn Wilson) is to be believed: There’s no science fiction show like this one.
The entire realm of American television took a drastic turn following the tragic events of 9/11, and Battlestar Galactica came as a direct result of that tonal and thematic shift. Suddenly, televisual sci-fi became grittier, more mature, more sharply political, and more morally ambiguous than it had ever been before. By elevating sci-fi into the realm of true prestige television, the 2004 version of Battlestar instantly cemented itself as one of the most important genre shows of the 2000s.
‘The X-Files’ (1993–2018)
In the history of sci-fi television, there’s before The X-Files and then there’s after The X-Files. With its unprecedentedly large cult following surging right as the worldwide web was starting to be democratized, this Fox gem pioneered the online fandom space. Over three decades after it first aired, it’s still every bit as enjoyable and engaging as it was back in its infancy. Who could have foretold that a sci-fi/supernatural mystery series following a skeptic and a believer could have provided material for over 200 phenomenal episodes that never lost momentum?
From Supernatural to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, virtually every “monster-of-the-week” type of genre show that came after The X-Files was in some way inspired by it. It’s one of those classic sci-fi shows that has aged like fine wine, the show that fully brought science fiction into the modern mainstream television era. Popularizing conspiracy shows (and even conspiracy theories as a whole) and establishing Mulder (David Duchovny) and Scully (Gillian Anderson), the most iconic duo in sci-fi television history, The X-Files left an indelible mark on the history of American television.
‘Star Trek: The Original Series’ (1966–1969)
Nowadays, the Star Trek franchise doesn’t really need an introduction; but back in 1966, audiences had never seen anything quite like Star Trek: The Original Series. With an unprecedentedly diverse ensemble cast and the distinctly optimistic worldview that has come to characterize the entire franchise, Gene Roddenberry‘s original creation wasn’t huge while it was on their. But following its cancellation, its release into syndication turned it into the gargantuan cult classic that people know it as today.
The Original Series is, in virtually every sense imaginable, one of those sci-fi shows that were way ahead of their time. There’s its cast, its exceptionally progressive politics, its stunning production values, and the uniquely utopian way in which it looks at the future. This lends it infinite rewatchability value even today, as it remains one of fans’ favorite installments in a massive franchise that has no shortage of gems to offer.
‘The Twilight Zone’ (1959–1964)
Back in the ’50s and ’60s, sci-fi television was in practically no way like what we know today, but Rod Serling was the first person to truly help sci-fi take a leap into modernity. The Twilight Zone is arguably the single most groundbreaking and influential sci-fi TV show in history, and it’s definitely the biggest sci-fi anthology series of all time. Like all anthology shows, it had its fair share of ups and downs; but there’s no way of denying that it completely re-defined televisual science fiction in virtually every sense imaginable.
It’s one of those anthology TV shows that have aged like fine wine, a classic full of iconic episodes that deal with themes that still feel relevant and timely over 60 years after the show’s conclusion. It played an instrumental role in bringing science fiction into the mainstream, proving just how intelligent and culturally relevant the genre could be when in the right creative hands. Sci-fi TV as we know it today could never have existed without The Twilight Zone.
‘Babylon 5’ (1994–1998)
Though perhaps not quite as influential, nor nearly as vastly acclaimed as The Twilight Zone, there’s a strong argument to be made that there has never been a science fiction TV show more important or genre-defining than Babylon 5. Almost unprecedentedly for American broadcast television at the time, this space opera was designed as a sort of novel for television, where each season of a pre-planned five-part arc would serve as a different chapter.
Babylon 5 brought not only television sci-fi, but American television as a whole, away from their episodic days and toward a more heavily serialized era. Campy though it may sometimes feel nowadays, it’s nevertheless one of those sci-fi shows that hold up surprisingly well, a game-changing classic without which sci-fi television—and perhaps even American television more generally—would have likely looked vastly different today.
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Anyone who experienced even a couple of episodes of Peter Capaldi‘s stint as the titular Time Lord in Doctor Who could tell you how great an actor he is. Capaldi took a sci-fi series that is fundamentally family-friendly about traveling through time and space and sprinkled it with the veteran instincts of an experienced performer, becoming many people’s favorite actor to take on the role in its over 60-year history. You need only watch the episode “Heaven Sent,” which features Capaldi almost entirely on his own, monologuing his way through grief, to see his genius at work.
With that in mind, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that any project starring the great actor could return a stunning critical and audience reception. This is exactly what happened with the first season of Apple TV’s British thriller, Criminal Record. Created by Paul Rutman, eight episodes of this twisting drama landed on the streamer back in early 2024, scoring a 95% rating from critics on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.
Earlier this week, Cush Jumbo‘s Detective Sergeant June Lenker and Capaldi’s Detective Chief Inspector Daniel Hegarty returned to the series in a long-awaited Season 2, as Episode 1, “Is It Him?” premiered on Apple TV. Directed by Ben A. Williams and penned by Rutman, the episode saw Jumbo and Capaldi return and not miss a beat, as another hunt for justice begins. But what are critics saying about Season 2? Quite remarkably, this second season has already outperformed the near-perfect Season 1. On Rotten Tomatoes, Criminal Record Season 2 boasts a perfect 100% score.
What Have Critics Said About ‘Criminal Record’ Season 2?
With its perfect 100% score, albeit from just five reviews thus far, Criminal Record is earning gushing praise from a variety of sites. For The Guardian, Sarah Dempster praised the show’s “relatively straightforward and beautifully paced storytelling,” adding, “its narrative twists emerging like handkerchiefs from a sleeve.” Digital Spy’s Lacy Baugher was similarly positive, praising “a darker and more ambitious outing” than Season 1. This thought was shared by Fandom Wire’s Richard Valero, who wrote, “If you were a fan of Criminal Record season 1, you are in for an absolute treat with an even better second season.”
Criminal Record is available to stream on Apple TV. Stay tuned to Collider for more streaming stories.
- Release Date
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January 10, 2024
- Network
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Apple TV
- Showrunner
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Paul Rutman
- Directors
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Jim Loach
- Writers
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Thomas Eccleshare, Ameir Brown, Paul Rutman
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Andrew Brooke
Clive Silcox
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Charlie Creed-Miles
DS Tony Gilfoyle
President Donald Trump slammed a 60 Minutes anchor who quoted part of a manifesto written by the alleged White House Correspondents’ Dinner gunman.
During an interview with CBS News’ Norah O’Donnell for 60 Minutes, which aired on Sunday, April 26, Trump, 79, strongly opposed a passage that criticized him. “I am no longer willing to permit a pedophile, rapist, and traitor to coat my hands with his crimes,” O’Donnell, 52, quoted from the manifesto to Trump.
Trump acknowledged earlier on Sunday in an interview with Fox News that an alleged “manifesto” was written by the suspected shooter and sent to the suspect’s family prior to the incident.
Taking the quoted manifesto passage as a reference to his relationship with the late convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Trump began, “Well, I was waiting for you to read that because I knew you would, because you’re horrible people. Horrible people,” Trump said. “Yeah, he did write that. I’m not a rapist. I didn’t rape anybody.”
Conservative commentator Candace Owens clapped back after President Donald Trump insulted her in his latest social media rant. Trump, 79, took a shot at Owens, 36, and other former allies while reacting to a CNN poll comparing his favorable approval rating among Republicans to conservative critics such as Tucker Carlson and Megyn Kelly. “Tucker is […]
O’Donnell then asked, “Oh, do you think he was referring to you?” which drew further comment from Trump.
“Excuse me, excuse me, I’m not a pedophile. You read that crap from some sick person? I got associated with old stuff that has nothing to do with me,” Trump responded. “I was totally exonerated. Your friends on the other side of the plate are the ones that were involved with, let’s say Epstein or other things, but I said to myself, ‘You know, I’ll do this interview … but you should be ashamed of yourself reading that because I’m not any of those things.”
Despite O’Donnell’s attempts to clarify her stance, Trump concluded, “You shouldn’t be reading that on 60 Minutes, you’re a disgrace. You’re disgraceful,” before the interview moved on.
Epstein was convicted in 2008 on charges of soliciting prostitution and soliciting prostitution from a minor before he was arrested in 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges. He died in custody before trial. Trump’s documented relationship with the late financier has long been put under the microscope, but Trump has repeatedly denied knowledge of Epstein’s criminal activity.
Alex Jones has reacted after President Donald Trump publicly criticized the radio host and other conservative figureheads. “Well, President Trump came out on Truth Social and attacked myself and all the original MAGA supporters today,” Jones, 52, said in a video shared via X on Thursday, April 9. “I’m just so sad that whatever’s happened […]
Trump and first lady Melania Trump were evacuated from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday, April 25, after shots rang out across the Washington Hilton ballroom. A 31-year-old California man was apprehended outside the ballroom shortly after, later identified as Cole Tomas Allen, who had recently won a “teacher of the year” award and was armed with a shotgun, handgun and knives, according to authorities.
A Secret Service agent was shot during the incident and nobody else was harmed. The alleged gunman is scheduled to be arraigned in federal court on Monday, April 27.
During a press conference staged in the wake of the shooting, Trump told members of the press that he was “honored” to be a target of the shooting. “When you look at our great presidents, [this] doesn’t happen to people who don’t do anything,” Trump told reporters who gathered in the White House in the late hours of Saturday. “I hate to say I’m honored by that but we’ve done a lot.”
Earlier on Sunday, Trump commented on the nature of the alleged manifesto currently circulating within the media. “When you read his manifesto, he hates Christians, that’s one thing for sure,” Trump told Fox News. “It was a religious thing, it was strongly anti-Christian.”
Before Euphoria hosted the wedding of the year for Cassie and Nate, Hunter Schafer returned with a graphic nude scene — and another character revealed they were a virgin.
During the Sunday, April 26, episode of the hit HBO series, a flashback sequence showed Jules in art school before her roommate suggested she try going on dates with wealthy men for money. That turned into Jules dropping out of school because of how her lifestyle got funded — specifically by one client who became her only sugar daddy.
A specifically racy scene showed Jules stripping down before her client wrapped her up in cellophane. Elsewhere in the episode, Jules reunited with Cal (Eric Dane), where they reflected on their history. Cal updated Jules on what happened after his arrest, which included him taking a plea deal and having to register as a sex offender.
Cassie (Sydney Sweeney) and Nate’s (Jacob Elordi) wedding served as a reunion for many — but not Rue (Zendaya) who was called away for business. She took a call in the car from Fez (Angus Cloud) before stopping at Laurie’s house. Back at the wedding, Lexi (Maude Apatow) made a comment to Jules that revealed she’s a virgin.
Euphoria has become known for its graphic sex scenes — and the stars haven’t held back about stripping down on camera. “Every scene is like, ‘He sleeps with this person. He does this with this person naked,’” Jacob Elordi said about playing Nate Jacobs during a March 2022 appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. “On […]
Jules’ return to the show comes after Sweeney, 28, stripped down in a past episode. Cassie’s evolution into creating explicit content for subscribers featured her filming photo shoots that ranged from her topless while licking ice cream to a skin-tight shirt that had the design of the American flag to her pretending to be an adult baby.
“Cassie was exactly the kind of girl you would dream of signing. Beautiful — but directionless,” Rue said in a voiceover. “So desperate for attention that she was willing to humiliate herself.”
Before Euphoria returned for season 3 earlier this month, Sweeney spoke exclusively to Us Weekly about her evolving relationship with her body — and how it inspired her lingerie brand, Syrn.
“I grew up with boobs. I was wearing a 32DD in sixth grade, and I never felt confident,” Sweeney told Us. “I never had anything I felt good in, and I just wanted to hide. It wasn’t until [I played] Cassie in Euphoria that I started realizing it’s actually powerful to be confident; our bodies are incredible. We should embrace [them] and feel really good in our skin.”
Sydney Sweeney has been candid about what goes into stripping down for nude scenes in Euphoria and other projects. After Euphoria premiered in 2019, Sweeney, who plays Cassie, opened up about the downsides of being naked on screen. “I don’t think as many people took me seriously in Euphoria because I took my shirt off,” […]
Sweeney recalled facing challenges with the line.
“I’d always be like, ‘Oh, this fit doesn’t work,’” she says. “‘I don’t have the support I want. The straps are digging into my shoulders or it’s kind of itchy and riding up,’” she explained. “I started a whole Pinterest board of thousands of photos of inspiration, and I [thought], ‘I should actually do this.’ And we put it together.”
She continued: “That’s kind of why I wanted to build all these different worlds,” she explains, “So [fans] could honestly choose what they wanted to be [at] the start of the day or the end of the day.”
Euphoria airs on HBO Sundays at 9 p.m. ET.
Jessi Draper has made it very clear that she has officially moved on after filing for divorce from her ex, Jordan Ngatikaura, as the “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star has fully embraced the dating scene.
However, moving on has not come without a host of online opinions, and Draper recently spoke about tuning out all the noise and criticism.
In an Instagram video on Saturday, April 25, Jessi Draper gave her fans a “life update” on dating and her healing journey after filing for divorce from Jordan Ngatikaura.
“I know that you guys see a lot of headlines and videos and photos about my life, and something that I have learned from being on reality TV is that everyone has an opinion,” Draper said in the clip. “But healing after divorce is so interesting because everyone’s process is different.”
“I know a lot of people don’t understand that I’m dating and hanging out and just having fun,” the reality star continued. “And when you’re in a relationship where you don’t feel valued, and you don’t feel like you were treated well, it feels so nice to just talk to people who make you feel valued and treat you well.”
Draper Also Addressed The Criticism About Focusing On Motherhood Instead Of Dating
Many online have accused Draper of prioritizing dating over being an active parent.
“And I think one of the biggest comments I see is, ‘Go heal and focus on your children.’ And what I want to say to that is: Two things can be true,” she began.
“I have my kids 50 percent of the time now, so I am focusing on healing and spending time with them, but when I don’t have them, I’m also focusing on myself and reprioritizing being happy, honestly,” Draper added. “And it’s been really fun to just be happy and to be giddy and to just let loose and kind of see that men don’t have to be what I have experienced for so long.”
She also provided assurance that she has no plans to jump into another committed relationship anytime soon.
“I do plan on being single for a long time and just hanging out with different people and having fun and finding connections while also focusing on myself,” the JZ Styles founder said.
Draper Has Sparked Dating Rumors With Former Fling Marciano Brunette And Spotted Kissing ‘Mormon Wives’ Chase McWhorter
In March 2025, Deuxmoi shared a tip alleging that Draper and McWhorter, the ex-husband of “Mormon Wives” star Miranda Hope, were spotted kissing at a friend’s birthday party, but nothing was initially confirmed.
However, a short time later, Hope posted a photo of flowers and an apology note from Draper, indicating that the kissing rumor was indeed true.
“I completely understand you being upset with me,” the note read. “But wanted to send you a little something to let you know I’m thinking about you, and I am so, so sorry. -Jessi.”
Hope further addressed the rumors in an interview with Entertainment Tonight.
“What I never want to get misconstrued is that there is not any emotional attachment to Chase. He is my co-parent. Although I do feel disrespected by Chase, I feel slighted by my friend. Chase and I are no longer partners, and while I have high expectations of him as a co-parent, I also hold my friends to a high standard and believe in girl code,” she told the outlet.
Things with Brunette, however, appear to be more romantic. “Mormon Wives” fans know that Draper and the “Vanderpump Villa” star had an intimate encounter while she was still married, so they seemed to have resumed things.
There have been multiple posts across Instagram and TikTok of the two being out together, kissing, and cuddled up. Draper recently admitted that Brunette is part of her “roster” of men she is currently dating.
Production For ‘Mormon Wives’ Recently Resumed Following Taylor Frankie Paul Drama
After Paul avoided charges in her domestic violence case with ex Dakota Mortensen, news followed about the future of the show.
Per The Hollywood Reporter, the “Mormon Wives” production team is letting Taylor Frankie Paul take the lead on when (and in what capacity) she wants to return to the show.
An inside source close to Paul also revealed to the outlet that production remains supportive of Paul and is ready to film with her at her own pace “if and when she is ready.”
Paul previously shut down claims from PEOPLE that the show would resume production without her, writing in the Instagram comments of the post, “Interesting, that’s not the call I got.”
Draper Previously Supported Paul Throughout Her Domestic Violence Investigation
In an interview on Alex Cooper’s “Call Her Daddy” podcast on March 25, “Mormon Wives” star Jessi Draper publicly addressed the domestic violence allegations and 2023 video release regarding Taylor Frankie Paul, and voiced her support.
“I don’t like to judge someone in their darkest moment. I don’t want to judge the person, I’ll judge the mistake,” Draper said. “Taylor really has made a lot of changes, and that’s what’s so hard for me. This is my real friend, and she does have a really good heart, and I love her so much.”
Draper noted that Paul has been dealing with a lot of pain behind the scenes, which she said is not necessarily indicative of who she is.
“Seeing that video is so hard, because there’s so much pain underneath the surface for Taylor,” she said during the interview, visibly holding back tears. “It’s not who Taylor is. She got caught in a really bad cycle.”
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It’s fun to experiment with fresh styles, but like Us, Gwyneth Paltrow comes back to casual basics with an elevated twist. Paltrow gave Us inspo for our everyday outfits in a recent Instagram post showcasing her spring style, but it was her casual white pullover that caught our eye.
Between the comfy fabric, effortless fit and neutral colorway, it channeled California cool-girl style. We ran straight to Amazon to recreate her white pullover look for less. Seriously, you’ll wear it nonstop until Labor Day.
Get the Shewin Casual Long-Sleeve Sweatshirt for $33 on Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
The Shewin Casual Long-Sleeve Sweatshirt is made from a cotton-blend fabric that keeps things breathable and soft against your skin. It’s designed with an intentionally loose silhouette, but if you want that oversized look, grab the next size up.
Over 1,000 five-star reviewers on Amazon give this casual-chic pullover glowing reviews. Just take it from one shopper who wrote, “I throw this on with leggings to run errands and shop. It is comfy and I get compliments on it quite often. It is not super stretchy but it does have a little give. I would order a size up so the lack of stretch does not feel restrictive.”
Paltrow’s simple white pullover style is the easiest spring and summer staple. Throw it on with jeans, and suddenly you look like you’re summering in the Hamptons.
Get the Shewin Casual Long-Sleeve Sweatshirt for $33 on Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
Not what you’re looking for? Shop other spring blouses on Amazon and don’t forget to check out Amazon’s Daily Deals here!
If you want your closet to look like a Hamptons boutique showroom, you’re in the right place. Amazon just dropped chic, expensive-looking blouses that will instantly elevate your wardrobe for every activity, from running errands to leading work presentations. The real kicker? Our top-tier picks start at just $8! These newly launched finds are super […]
Former NBA player Evan Turner seems to be taking sides after Megan Thee Stallion announced she had split from Klay Thompson amid infidelity claims.
“I’m sorry Klay Thompson, I wasn’t familiar with your game,” Turner wrote via X on Saturday, April 26.
Megan announced on Saturday that she and Thompson had called it quits after nearly one year of dating, accusing the four-time NBA champion of cheating on her multiple times during their relationship.
“I’ve made the decision to end my relationship with Klay,” the rap star told Us in a statement. “Trust, fidelity and respect are non-negotiable for me in a relationship, and when those values are compromised, there’s no real path forward. “I’m taking this time to prioritize myself and move ahead with peace and clarity.”
Megan Thee Stallion appeared extra emotional during her Saturday, April 25, Broadway performance of Moulin Rouge in the wake of her breakup from NBA star Klay Thompson. Megan, 31, received a thunderous standing ovation during her curtain call, in which she was spotted wiping away tears and at one point turning away from the crowd […]
Earlier in the day, Megan posted a scathing statement on her Instagram story.
“Cheating, had me around your whole family playing house … got ‘cold feet,’” she wrote via her Instagram Stories without mentioning Klay by name. “Holding you down through all your HORRIBLE mood swings and treatment towards me during your basketball season. Now you don’t know if you can be ‘monogamous???’ Bitch, I need a real break after this one. Bye y’all.”
The rapper — who is currently starring in the Broadway show, Moulin Rouge! — called out of the show on Saturday afternoon, but returned to the stage for the evening performance and received raucous applause after the show. The moment brought Megan to tears on stage.
Influencer Hasan Piker also chimed in on the pair’s split, calling the breakup a “generational fumble” by Thompson.
“Are you f***ing serious?” Piker, 34, said in an Instagram video on Saturday, reacting to Megan’s social media statement that announced the news. “Klay Thompson, this was the best thing that has happened to you in your damn life, dude. How is that possible? That’s Megan Thee Stallion.”
Megan Thee Stallion and her NBA star boyfriend, Klay Thompson, have broken up amid accusations of infidelity. “I’ve made the decision to end my relationship with Klay,” Megan, 31, tells Us Weekly in a Saturday, April 25, statement. “Trust, fidelity and respect are non-negotiable for me in a relationship, and when those values are compromised, […]
He continued, “This is more important. This is the one ring you should be paying attention to, not the motherf***ing NBA ring. That was the ring. How the f*** do you fumble Megan Thee Stallion, bro? That is crazy.”
Thompson has not publicly addressed the breakup or cheating claims. Us reached out to representatives for the NBA star for comment.
Megan and Thompson had been dating since July 2025 and made their red carpet debut at the Pete & Thomas Foundation Gala. (Megan started the organization in 2022 to support women, children, seniors and underserved communities in Houston, Texas.)
“Megan is such a special person and she inspires so many around the world. I’ve seen it firsthand,” Klay exclusively told Us on the red carpet. “This is just another incredible feat of hers to be able to give back, create [a] foundation and raise a ton of money for those in need. I’m honored to be here by her side.”
Mentalist Oz Pearlman was performing for President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and press secretary Karoline Leavitt at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday, April 24, when he realized something was very wrong.
“I was performing right then for the president, the press secretary and the first lady,” the magician said during a Sunday, April 26, appearance on CNN’s State of the Union. “It [was] kind of a pivotal moment in the trick where you’re just about to do the reveal … and we hear commotion.”
The mentalist initially thought someone inside the ballroom was experiencing a medical emergency, until the gravity of the situation became palpable.
“I see everyone swarming one table,” Pearlman continued. “I didn’t hear any shots or see what looked like a shooter. I thought there was about to be a bomb. I really, very much thought, ‘Oh my god, it’s about to explode,’ because of the way it was being approached.”
President Donald Trump has said he is “honored” to be a target following the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting. “When you look at our great presidents, [this] doesn’t happen to people who don’t do anything,” Trump, 79, told reporters at the White House on Saturday, April 25. Multiple media outlets reported that a 30-year-old man […]
Shortly after the annual event meant to celebrate the first amendment began on Saturday, a gunman attempted to charge the ballroom. The 31-year-old shooter, armed with a shotgun, handgun and multiple knives, was apprehended before he could enter. One Secret Service Agent was shot, but his ballistic vest protected him and he was later released from the hospital.
No one else was harmed during the incident.
Guests take cover during the shooting at the 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner Getty Images
The president, first lady and members of the Trump administration were all quickly evacuated from the building. The rest of the event was canceled.
“It was incredibly surreal,” Pearlman said on Sunday of the moment Secret Service agents tackled the president in an attempt to remove him from the premises. “I kind of get down on all fours facing left, stage left. They rush across to get POTUS and the president gets taken down by Secret Service — and we don’t know what’s going on — and he came down.”
He added, “You can look at the video — I don’t know the distance, but less than afoot from me — I’ll never forget the image for my whole life because I’m on all fours, turn like this, they bring the president down directly in front of me and we just look at each other for about two seconds.”
At that moment, Pearlman told CNN he thought his life was going to come to an end.
“And my mind — obviously this is a huge adrenaline — was just like, ‘Oh no, are we about to die?’ Because I thought it was about to explode,” Pearlman said. “I thought… that really was my instinct.”
The performer continued, “Then I heard what sounded like I thought were shots and at that point my mind shifted. I also wasn’t sure if [Trump] was hurt — they pick him up, kind of, and they go out and then we’re on all fours.”
At that point, Pearlman said he “army crawled” off the stage for fear that if he stood up he would be shot.
“We didn’t want to stand up because I didn’t want to get hit,” he explained.
On Sunday, acting attorney general Todd Blanche told multiple media outlets that the ongoing investigation has already revealed that the shooter — an engineer and part-time teacher — was targeting Trump and top Trump administration officials.
While speaking to Fox News, the president himself detailed an alleged manifesto written by the suspected shooter.
Erika Kirk was in attendance as shots broke out at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. CNN reported that Kirk, 37, was seen crying as the chaos unfolded at the Washington Hilton in Washington D.C. on Saturday, April 25. CNN’s Sara Sidner said on air that she personally witnessed Kirk leaving the main ballroom, telling aides, […]
“When you read his manifesto, he hates Christians, that’s one thing for sure,” the president claimed on Sunday, going on to call the suspect a “sick guy.” (Us Weekly has not independently viewed the alleged manifesto to corroborate the president’s claims.)
White House sources told multiple media outlets, including NPR, NBC News and CNN, that Allen’s sister had been interviewed by Secret Service agents and members of the Montgomery County, Maryland, police, claiming her brother “had a tendency to make radical statements and his rhetoric constantly referenced a plan to do ‘something’ to fix the issues with today’s world.”
“Summer House” star Amanda Batula was in the hot seat at the recently filmed reunion, and during the sit-down gathering, revealed she used ChatGPT to write the joint statement she and West Wilson used to confirm their relationship.
Earlier this week, a leaked audio recording from the “Summer House” reunion, featuring Ciara Miller slamming Amanda Batula and Wilson over their secret relationship, went viral online. Cast members and Bravo employees, including Kyle Cooke and Andy Cohen, have condemned the release of the recording, calling it “disrespectful” and upsetting.
According to a TMZ report, Batula dealt with the wrath of her “Summer House” co-stars during the reunion, which was filmed in late April 2026.
Her Bravo peers reportedly had an issue with the joint statement she released with Wilson about their secretive relationship.
According to a source, Batula allegedly joked about their statement and admitted to using the popular AI system to pen the lengthy post.
Their statement, per The Blast, was shared in March 2026 and came after months of speculation.
“We’ve seen the growing online speculation, so while this is still very new, we wanted to provide some clarity,” they wrote on Instagram. “It was never our intention to purposely hide anything. Given the complicated relationship dynamics involved and the scrutiny that comes with being on a reality show, we need a little space to process things privately before speaking on it.”
Amanda Batula Slammed By Miller In Leaked ‘Summer House’ Reunion Audio
During the reunion, Batula was engaged in an explosive argument with her former friend, Miller. A leaked audio recording, in which Miller calls the “Summer House” OG a “snake,” went viral online.
Although the moment put an even bigger spotlight on the Bravo reality series, the network announced its disappointment over the situation and shared its plans to take action against the source of the leak.
“This represents a serious breach of trust and a clear lack of respect for the cast, crew, and the integrity of the production process,” a network spokesperson said. “We take this matter very seriously and have launched a full investigation and we will take appropriate action based on our findings.”
Online, Cohen also reacted to the news, admitting he was bothered by betrayal. “On my way to eye surgery and just reading about it. People laid their souls out emotionally for ten hours yesterday and its disgusting and illegal for someone to leak or distribute this,” he said.
Amanda Batula’s Soon-To-Be Ex-Husband, Cooke, Breaks Silence On The Leak
Cooke also shared his opinion on the matter, suggesting the leaker “seek counsel” after learning Bravo’s intense feelings about the situation.
While he stressed the seriousness of the matter, Cooke appeared to defend his co-stars, including Batula, whom he split from in January 2026.
“This was not a phone on set. Everybody — if you do have a phone on set, it’s stuck behind a pillow or a couch cushion. So, the cameras can’t see it. I don’t really see why anyone would gain [from] having leaked this. That goes for producers, crew, and Bravo,” he said.
Cooke went on to explain that the leaker likely had access to a “live feed” behind the scenes.
“There’s only a couple different rooms with monitors. And, of course, then there’s the actual set. It kind of sounds like they were trying to be discreet because you can hear them fumbling their phone in the beginning and the end,” he added.
Miller Opened Up About Complicated Feelings In An Upcoming ‘Summer House’ Episode
For those who may be unfamiliar, Batula and Wilson’s relationship has been subject to criticism because of both of their previous relationships with Miller.
Batula and Miller had been friends since 2021, while Wilson and Miller dated in 2023. The pair addressed their split on the show, with Wilson admitting that he wasn’t ready to settle down.
Over the next two years, Wilson and Miller have had an awkward dynamic; however, they appear to clear the air during an upcoming episode, according to The Blast.
After a clearly moving conversation, Miller told her friend, Mia Calabrese, that she believed Wilson was “my person.”
“We have this really weird friendship, and it’s hard to ignore that, you know?” she said.
Speaking with producers, Miller added, “Everyone knows that I’m not the most warm and fuzzy person. I am warm. I might not be fuzzy, but I’m warm. I guess making up isn’t really my thing, but I’m trying to be less rigid, which is a theme of my summer, OK?”
Miller Gets Support From ‘Summer House’ Stars
According to another report from The Blast, former “Summer House” stars Paige DeSorbo and Hannah Berner broke their silence on the Batula/Wilson scandal, offering support for Miller.
“Obviously, we’re live. We see the internet, we know what’s going on,” DeSorbo said. Ciara is our real friend, in real life. So we have been talking to her, consoling her. We are behind her 100%. We would never capitalize or monetize off of our friend’s heartbreak.”
Jen Affleck has been an original cast member of Hulu’s hit reality series “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” since its September 2024 premiere.
However, after news broke that the show would be getting a spinoff, fans have been curious about who from the OG cast would be moving over to the Orange County franchise. Affleck has now seemingly provided a clear answer.
On Saturday, April 25, Jen Affleck took to Instagram to confirm what her fans have been waiting for.
She posted a video of herself along with the rest of the cast of “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives: Orange County” with a caption that read, “Coming to @hulu in 2026!!”
Fans were confused when the cast announcement recently broke and Affleck was not included, and she also missed an appearance with the rest of the ladies. However, it appears that she is indeed leaving her Salt Lake City #MomTok group and heading to California.
Affleck Previously Shared Her Struggles As A Wife And Mom
“In the last two to three years, there’s been…so much has happened, between two babies, reality TV show, ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ moving, identity, faith, life crisis,” she said. “I’m very hopeful for this next chapter of my life.”
Affleck got visibly emotional, saying that she “hates crying on camera,” but “looking back at the last two years, there’s a lot of parts of me that I haven’t really recognized.”
’Mormon Wives’ Spinoff Recently Confirmed The Cast
“Secret Lives of Mormon Wives: Orange County” will feature podcaster Bobbi Althoff, FishFam YouTuber Madison Bontempo, and social media personalities Aspyn Ovard, Avery Woods, and Salomé Andrea, according to an official press release.
Rounding out the cast are Chandler Higginson, Ashleigh Pease, and McCall DaPron, the sister of OG cast member Mayci Neeley.
“A new group of dynamic young mothers in Orange County collide in a community where beliefs are not just their religion; they are their identity,” the show’s description reads. “While some defend their way of life, fighting against modernity, others embrace change, becoming a platform to disrupt the status quo.”
“Scandals and secrets will be revealed, facades will crumble, and families and friendships will change forever on both sides of the battlefield as this group of strong, game-changing influencers comes together to build their answer to #MomTok,” the description continued.
The Spinoff Was Initially Rumored In February 2026
According to TMZ, back in February, sources close to the spinoff series revealed that a pilot episode had already been filmed and was currently being shopped to streaming services, including Hulu, in hopes of being greenlit for a full season.
Sources also told the outlet they were eyeing a March start date to film additional episodes, but that timeline rested on whether they would be picked up by a streamer.
The show’s pilot is based in Orange County, California, but if it gets picked up, it would likely expand to Los Angeles as well.
At the time, the cast of the spinoff had not been revealed, but production sources told TMZ that “a few familiar faces” would be part of the ensemble.
‘Mormon Wives’ Production Has Resumed
After filming for season five of “Mormon Wives” was put on pause due to star Taylor Frankie Paul’s domestic violence investigation, which ultimately resulted in no charges being filed against her, fans were unsure when production would resume.
Per The Hollywood Reporter, production has officially resumed now that Paul is in the clear, but production is letting her take the lead on when (and in what capacity) she wants to return to the show.
An inside source close to her also revealed to the outlet that production remains supportive of Paul and is ready to film with her at her own pace “if and when she is ready.”
Paul previously shut down claims from PEOPLE that the show would resume production without her, writing in the Instagram comments of the post, “Interesting, that’s not the call I got.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt broke her silence on the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting after previously declaring there would be “shots fired” at the event.
Leavitt, 28, took to Instagram on Sunday, April 26, to reflect on the shooting that saw her, President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and other administration officers evacuated from the Washington Hilton ballroom one day prior due to shots ringing out over dinner.
“What was supposed to be a fun night with President Trump delivering jokes and celebrating free speech was hijacked by a depraved anti-Trump lunatic who sought to assassinate the President and kill as many top Trump administration officials as possible,” Leavitt’s Instagram post read.
Just minutes before shots were heard at the gala, Leavitt, who is pregnant with her second child to husband Nicholas Riccio, told Fox News on the red carpet that a speech to be delivered to Trump, 79, would be “funny” and “entertaining,” and that there “will be some shots fired tonight in the room.”
Celebrities and NFL stars are speaking out after the shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl parade. The Kansas City police department confirmed on Wednesday, February 14, that one parade attendee had died and at least 10 other people were gravely injured during the parade. The Missouri football team was celebrating their Sunday, February […]
Leavitt’s post, accompanied by a carousel of photos taken prior and during the dinner, and in the aftermath of the evacuation, continued, “I was with President Trump and the First Lady back stage after we were quickly ushered to safety by Secret Service. President Trump was truly fearless, but as he said last night, this political violence needs to end.”
The post, which captured Leavitt seated beside Vice President JD Vance in the White House Oval Office, concluded, “Thank you to law enforcement for keeping all of us safe, including the brave agent who took a bullet to the chest and immediately moved to neutralize the shooter. Pray for our country.”
Washington D.C. law enforcement officials confirmed that a 31-year-old man from California was apprehended as a result of the shooting incident on Saturday, April 25. He has been charged with two counts of using a firearm and one count of assault on a federal officer using a dangerous weapon. The suspect’s motives and condition remain unknown.
Whitney Leavitt is breaking her silence in the wake of fellow The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives cast member Taylor Frankie Paul’s most recent domestic dispute. “I have a lot of emotions about it and I’m still processing everything that’s happening, but the safety of human beings, especially children, comes first,” Whitney told Interview Magazine […]
A member of the Secret Service was shot during the incident, which took place near the venue’s “main magnetometer,” per information provided by the Secret Service. Trump later confirmed that the Secret Service agent was recovering in the hospital.
“The vest did its job. I just spoke to the officer and he’s doing great,” Trump told reporters in the event’s wake.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner served as a temporary farewell for Leavitt as she prepares to welcome her second child in the coming days. (Leavitt and Riccio, 60, are also parents to son Nico, born in July 2024.)
In the hours that followed the shooting, Leavitt personally confirmed via an X post that Trump had scheduled a press conference in the late hours of Saturday night. In her Instagram post, Leavitt included a photo from the press conference that showed her standing beside the lectern that Trump spoke from.
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