Entertainment
8 Most Thrilling Action Movies of All Time, Ranked
Breaking bones, taking names, and shouting them loudly as the camera pulls away, action movies have been an entertaining and eternally popular part of the cinema landscape practically since there’s been a cinema landscape to speak of. They’ve thrilled audiences for decades with their impressive choreography, mind-blowing stunts, and wild narratives, providing some of the most memorable experiences anyone’s ever had at the movies. And in the process, they’ve also given us some of the most exciting films of all time.
These action masterpieces combine technical precision with grand performances to create enthralling journeys that remind you of why people love movies in the first place. Spanning a vast expanse of genres and styles, from the jungles of Central America to the cutting edge of the future, each of these films presents a unique vision that has since inspired countless others, shaping pop culture as we know it. So, without further ado, here’s our ranked selection of some of the most thrilling action movie masterpieces ever made.
8
‘Predator’ (1987)
Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Predator is a classic sci-fi action horror movie directed by John McTiernan that follows Alan “Dutch” Schaefer, leader of an elite paramilitary rescue unit, on a mission to save hostages in a Central American rainforest. While treading the dangers of the wild landscape, the team is hunted by a highly skilled and technologically advanced extraterrestrial that takes them down one by one. Besides Schwarzenegger, the film also stars Kevin Peter Hall as the Predator, with Elpidia Carrillo, Carl Weathers, Richard Chaves, Sonny Landham, Bill Duke, and Jesse Ventura in main roles.
A heady combination of macho military adventure, alien slasher horror, and a wild, tension-filled survival thriller, Predator is a gripping action masterpiece that intelligently blends different genres, redefining ’80s action tropes. The film’s choreography shifts in tune with its narrative changes, transitioning from high-octane firepower to a methodical, ritualistic hunt and brutal killings, culminating in a primal showdown between the man and the monster. Anchored by Schwarzenegger’s captivating lead performance, Predator is one of the greatest action films of all time, and a distinctive ’80s gem that became an archetype for survival thrillers of the future.
7
‘Lethal Weapon’ (1987)
An ’80s action classic directed by Richard Donner and written by Shane Black, Lethal Weapon follows two LAPD detectives — the emotionally troubled and grieving Martin Riggs and the seasoned, methodical Roger Murtaugh. Tasked with investigating a young woman’s murder, the unlikely duo must navigate their differences and unearth the truth in an action-packed Christmas thriller. Mel Gibson and Danny Glover star as Riggs and Murtaugh, respectively, with Gary Busey, Tom Atkins, Darlene Love, and Mitchell Ryan as the supporting characters.
With relentless energy and a constant supply of adrenaline-pumping action pieces, Lethal Weapon is a highlight of ’80s cinema and a truly iconic action film. While the movie is most noted for its intense, visceral fight sequences, the raw energy is balanced with the emotional depth of its protagonists, delivered by Gibson and Glover through their compelling performances and terrific chemistry, and the roles established them as major action stars. A massively successful and critically acclaimed genre hit, Lethal Weapon redefined the action films of the ’80s and ’90s, launching a global media franchise that includes sequel films, television shows, and games.
6
‘The Matrix’ (1999)
A classic ’90s sci-fi action movie, The Matrix was written and directed by The Wachowskis, and stars Keanu Reeves as computer hacker Thomas Anderson, codenamed Neo. Set in a dystopian future where humanity has been trapped inside the titular simulation by autointelligent machines that harvest their bioelectric energy, the movie follows Neo’s story as he is recruited by the mysterious Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) to join a group of rebels fighting against the machines. The film also features Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving, and Joe Pantoliano in significant roles.
A highly innovative cyberpunk film, The Matrix broke new ground for the genre with its epic set pieces, inventive blend of spiritual, philosophical, and mythological motifs and themes, and pioneering visual effects. Choreographed by legendary Hong Kong action director Yuen Woo-ping, every fight sequence in The Matrix is an action masterclass, with styles combining amazingly orchestrated gunfights and high-octane martial arts inspired by manga and classic Hong Kong action cinema. The film has since spawned a multimedia franchise that includes multiple sequels, but the first movie remains a timeless classic that truly revolutionized the genre.
5
‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ (1991)
Following the success of 1984’s The Terminator, James Cameron returned to direct Terminator 2: Judgment Day, with Arnold Schwarzenegger returning as the titular anti-hero. The sequel kicks off with the evil AI Skynet sending a new, more advanced killing machine, the shapeshifting T-1000, to kill John Connor when he was a child, prompting the resistance to reprogram a T-800 (Schwarzenegger) and send it back in time to protect the younger John. Linda Hamilton reprises her role of Sarah Connor, with Robert Patrick, Edward Furlong, Earl Boen, and Joe Morton in supporting roles.
The Terminator is the movie that established Cameron as a sci-fi filmmaking genius, but Judgment Day is the one that cemented his status and laid the foundations for the titular action franchise, which continues to enjoy the support of an international fan following after four decades and counting. The sequel film combines stunning action choreography, state-of-the-art make-up tech, and CGI effects to create an action film that was far ahead of its time. The movie boasts some of the most iconic action pieces ever seen in cinema, especially the chase sequences and the climactic showdown during the final battle scene, making it one of the most satisfying sequels ever made, especially in the sci-fi action genre.
4
‘Die Hard’ (1988)
Directed by John McTiernan and based on Roderick Thorp’s action thriller novel Nothing Lasts Forever, Die Hard follows John McClane, a New York City police officer traveling to Los Angeles to reconcile with his estranged wife, Holly. While at her office Christmas party, John inadvertently finds himself caught up in a violent plot involving a group of international criminals who take the entire building hostage. Bruce Willis leads the cast as the hero, John McClane, with Bonnie Bedelia as Holly, and Alan Rickman, Reginald VelJohnson, Alexander Godunov, Paul Gleason, and more in other key roles.
It may not have been a critical darling in its day, but Die Hard is now celebrated as one of the most beloved action thrillers of all time, known for its memorable dialogue and visceral fight sequences. Bruce Willis delivers a career-defining performance as the scantily armed and shoeless everyman, who became synonymous with the depiction of maverick cops in cinema and a prototype for action heroes of the future. Featuring some inventive and dramatic fight choreography using high-stakes practical stunts, Die Hard remains an evergreen action masterpiece that defined its decade and paved the way for a long-running multimedia franchise.
3
‘John Wick’ (2014)
Directed by Chad Stahelski in his directorial debut, John Wick stars Keanu Reeves as the titular retired hitman, who gives up his violent career and tries to live a peaceful life. But after a mobster breaks into his house, steals his prized vintage car, and kills his dog, gifted by his deceased wife, Wick returns to the ruthless killing machine he once was, and sets out to avenge his loss. Besides Reeves in the title role, the movie also features Michael Nyqvist, Alfie Allen, Adrianne Palicki, Ian McShane, Lance Reddick, and Willem Dafoe as key characters.
The first film in what is now a billion-dollar multimedia franchise, John Wick is most noted for its methodical, high-octane action pieces and fight sequences. A modern action classic that reinvented its star’s acting career, John Wick created a new genre standard with its stylized, inventive fight choreography using minimal CGI and high-intensity stunts, as well as its signature gun-fu sequences. Performing most of his own stunts, Reeves makes his stoic, enduring, unstoppable agent of death appear more grounded and convincing, and the character has now become one of his most iconic performances.
2
‘Kill Bill: Volume 1 & 2’ (2003-2004)
An epic modern martial arts film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, Kill Bill follows “The Bride,” codenamed Black Mamba, a former mercenary who embarks on a deadly quest for vengeance against her former colleagues and their leader, her ex-lover and ex-boss, Bill. Her mission begins in Kill Bill: Volume 1, in which we see the events that caused this murderous spree, and her methodical elimination of her enemies, taking them on one by one, leading up to her final confrontation with Bill in Kill Bill: Volume 2. Uma Thurman stars as The Bride, alongside Lucy Liu, Vivica A. Fox, Michael Madsen, Daryl Hannah, and more, with David Carradine as Bill.
Kill Bill is a roaring revenge thriller known for Uma Thurman’s iconic performance as an unrelenting killing machine and its visceral, bloody action set pieces. A homage to 1970s exploitation flicks, grindhouse films, martial arts classics, and spaghetti Westerns, the film blends various styles and genres of action into a stylish and slick choreography. Inventive and idiosyncratic in every aspect, Kill Bill is widely celebrated for its performances, soundtrack, and for featuring some of the best action choreography ever seen in modern cinema, especially the iconic snowy duel scene between The Bride and Liu’s O-Ren Ishii.
1
‘Enter the Dragon’ (1973)
Directed by Robert Clouse, Enter the Dragon is a legendary martial arts film starring Bruce Lee in his second English-language movie and his final film appearance before his death in 1973. The action thriller follows Lee, a Shaolin martial artist and undercover British intelligence agent from Hong Kong, who is tasked with infiltrating an international criminal’s drug operation. The film also stars John Saxon, Ahna Capri, Bob Wall, Shih Kien, and Jim Kelly in important roles.
Enter the Dragon was among the first films to combine spy thriller elements with martial arts action and the emerging blaxploitation genre, creating a whole new action subgenre that later inspired many similar productions. Thrilling and high-energy, the film is Bruce Lee at his finest, featuring spectacular action choreography that he directed himself. Despite its initial lukewarm reception, Enter the Dragon went on to become a cult classic, evolving into an internationally renowned genre film that’s now hailed as one of the greatest martial arts movies of all time.
Enter the Dragon
- Release Date
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August 19, 1973
- Runtime
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102 Minutes
- Director
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Robert Clouse
- Writers
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Michael Allin
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Malika Haqq and Khadijah Haqq have puzzled fans after posting a photo of them kissing on the lips in celebration of their 43rd birthday.
RELATED: Oop! Khloé Kardashian Confronts Malika Haqq For Not Telling Her About Previously Hooking Up With Rob (WATCH)
Malika Haqq Haqq & Khadijah Haqq Post Photo Of Them Kissing On The Lips In Celebration Of Their Birthday
On Tuesday, March 10, Khadijah Haqq took to Instagram to share a photo of herself and Malika Haqq standing in front of a sunset while surrounded by candles and greenery. Additionally, the pair posed with one of the twins holding the other’s face as they kissed on the lips.
“H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y M A L I K A 40-thrWE💋,” Khadijah captioned the photo as Malika reposted the photo via her own Instagram Story with the reply. “Happy Birthday @foreverkhadijah I love you… It’s US forever [pink heart emoji]”
Check out the photo below.
The Twins Puzzle Fans With Apparent Birthday Celebration Post
Internet users immediately shared puzzled reactions to the photo in TSR’s comment section.
Instagram user @meleliz__ wrote, “Wouldn’t kiss my twin or sister on the lips but go off..”
While Instagram user @alexispatrice added, “I would throw up if my sisters kissed me on the lips 😭”
Instagram user @koribelike wrote, “I thought this was a lesbian couple who just got engaged. My apologies.”
While Instagram user @brieyajanelle added, “Maybe it’s a twin thing idfk 😭”
Instagram user @jwp_class_act wrote, “HOLLYWEIRD at its finest cuz wth! Twins or not, this is weird.”
While Instagram user @neem.__ added, “Oh me and my twin sister ain’t this close but happy birthday I guess 🫤😭😭😭”
Instagram user @nnytsrik wrote, “ppl rlly be built different 😂😂 never would i ever do this w my sister…”
While Instagram user @itsjusttrina added, “as a twin, HELL NO!”
Instagram user @_thats.brookes.alexandria_ wrote, “So just a quick question… did yall take just one photo and was like ‘DANG!! I guess we HAVE to use this one’ or …”
While Instagram user @its_somethingabout_keia added, “They couldn’t just high five or something? Happy birthday yall 🥳”
Instagram user @ksha03__ wrote, “I love my twin but I don’t love her like that to kiss her lips. If she even think about it ima slap her back into reality 😂😂”
While Instagram user @xaziera_ added, “Lmao me & my twin barely like giving each other a hug so yeah absolutely not ! 🥴”
Before Malika Haqq Haqq & Khadijah Haqq Posted Photo Of Them Kissing On The Lips, One Of The Twins Made Sentimental Headlines
As The Shade Room previously reported, before Malika and Khadijah Haqq made present headlines, in March 2025, Malika shared footage of her sentimental birthday surprise for her and O.T. Genasis’ 5-year-old son, Ace. The clip ultimately prompted tears from social media users.
RELATED: Awww! Malika Haqq Trends After Posting Sentimental Footage Of Her Birthday Surprise For Her & O.T. Genasis’ Son (WATCH)
What Do You Think Roomies?
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A battle of the 40s!
Ime Udoka
Scoffs At Bam Adebayo’s 83 Points
Free Throws and Wizards!!!
Published
Houston Rockets
Some folks are unimpressed with Bam Adebayo‘s 83-point game … including Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka, who told reporters he had no idea how the Miami Heat player could score at will like that — until he looked at the box score.
The 48-year-old former pro met with the media after his team secured a 113-99 win over the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday … and was asked what he thought about the big man’s historic night at home against the Washington Wizards.
“First thing you think is ‘how?’ — not because of him, but because of the way he plays,” Udoka said. “And I saw he only made six threes but 40 free throws or something like that? Tells the story right there … and the Washington Wizards.”
Of course, the Wizards are not great this season — they currently have 16 wins.
Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick also chimed in on Adebayo passing Kobe Bryant for the second-most points in a game (behind Wilt Chamberlain) … and he said he at first didn’t realize the Heat were playing a “different type of basketball” at the end of the game.
He did say Adebayo’s feat was “incredible” nonetheless.
JJ Redick on Bam Adebayo’s 83-point night when asked by @MirjamSwanson:
“It’s incredible what he was able to do… I watched the last three minutes and that was a different type of basketball.”#Lakers pic.twitter.com/Vk2cvpDFyf
@CarlosYakJr
Miami essentially stuffed the stat sheet in Adebayo’s favor … intentionally fouling the Wizards to gain more possessions and feed him the rock, despite the game already being secured.
As for fans, diehard Lakers supporter O’Shea Jackson Jr. had a bit of a crash-out on social media … throwing around conspiracies and saying the historic night changed how he views the NBA as a whole.
Regardless … the record books won’t include any of the chatter … and now Bam sits between Kobe and Wilt Chamberlain in one of the most important stats in league history.
Asian Doll is getting back to music seven months after giving birth to her daughter, Mi’Lani. As she continues adjusting to balancing motherhood and her rapper lifestyle, she can’t escape the judgment from social media critics.
RELATED: Asian Doll Shuts Down Folks Questioning Her Heritage After She Claimed To Be Native American (PHOTOS)
Asian Doll Gets A Commenter In Check After Sharing A Photo Of Her Postpartum Body
On Monday, Asian Doll took to the ‘net to share a cute photo rocking a bright orange short set, a pink Chanel bag, and matching pink and orange heels. In the caption, while thanking her daughter for how good she looks postpartum, she wrote, “My daughter did me right.” A commenter replied, “Legs still don’t match babes,” and the rapper quickly clapped back, writing, “Still a badder b**** than you babes.”
In the full thread, another commenter asked, “How does her legs still not match?” Asian Doll responded, “How do I still manage to be a badder & prettier b**** and have more money than every b**** obsessed over my legs?”**
Asian Doll Speaks Out After Mixed Reactions To Her New EP Cover
A new day on the net, and the rapper still wasn’t backing down. Asian Doll later previewed the cover art for her upcoming EP ‘Just Had A Baby’ by sharing a photo holding her baby girl, Mi’Lani. The post quickly sparked mixed reactions as social media users flooded the comments with their opinions about the image.
While some fans showed love and excitement for the new project, others criticized the photo. One commenter wrote, “Why do we thirst trap with kids in the photo?” while another added, “At least cover the baby butt! C’mon now.”
When another user asked, “Why everything always gotta be naked?” Asian Doll quickly clapped back writing, “Why hes always worried bout a b they don’t know???”**
After the backlash, Asian Doll took to her Instagram Story to share examples of maternity shoots that also featured nude photography. She appeared to push back on the criticism by showing similar creative concepts used by other mothers.
The rapper also liked a comment from a supporter who defended her, writing, “Let’s just admit that y’all only have a problem with it because it’s her lol. The ones saying it’s a ‘thirst trap’ need to be studied because why do you immediately think that after seeing a mother and the child smh. It’s giving self projection.”
Social Media Reacts
Folks gathered under The Shade Room Teens as they reacted to Asian Doll’s recent post. While some disagreed with the photos, others expressed that people tend to hate on her for no reason or simply because it’s her.
Instagram user @kashh_dollah24 wrote, “To use your daughter as a caption to post your moomoo print is crazy”
Instagram user @lex.lex added, “It’s okay to leave some things for the imagination….”
While Instagram user @its.kaylaah wrote, “IM SO IRRITATED”
Instagram user @mosthattedmymy_ wrote,”No shade her legs do match now”
Instagram user @dejamonett_ added, “yall hate on this lady whatever she do, the hate don’t stop”
While Instagram user @cassidee23_ wrote, “She so pretty”
Instagram user @desifuckinbaby wrote, “I wouldnt even respond to these ppl that your baby f em”
Instagram user @mermaidvibezz2 added, “With everything going on in the world and the way they’re using Al to make weird pics of children ion think no child should ever be posted online naked or not”
While Instagram user @daniidatgurl wrote, “Why yall looking at a baby in that manner anyways thats her child”
What Do You Think Roomies?
Tig Notaro and Cheryl Hines entertained comedy fans with their “Tig and Cheryl: True Story” podcast, which launched in 2020.
But three years later, Notaro, 54, abruptly exited the project. Her May 2023 departure came one month after Hines’ politician husband, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., announced his campaign for the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
More than one year later, Notaro confirmed during an October 2025 episode of the “Breaking Bread With Tom Papa” podcast that she had to part professional ways with Hines, 60, as a result of Kennedy’s political advances.
“Cheryl’s married to Bobby Kennedy Jr.,” Notaro said during the episode. “When he was announcing his run, I just felt like I needed to step away … because there are beliefs that were like a gnat on the arm years ago that were getting further into the spotlight.”
Cheryl Hines opened up about losing friends due to her marriage to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during an appearance on the “Joe Rogan Experience” podcast. The Curb Your Enthusiasm alum dived deep into the backlash surrounding her spouse, who went from being a mainstream environmental activist to a controversial member of President Donald Trump’s second […]
The comedian went on to explain that the political stance of Kennedy, the Secretary of Health and Human Services for President Donald Trump’s administration, became too problematic. “My friendship with Cheryl predated her marriage to Bobby,” Notaro said of the couple, who got married in 2014. “He was in environmental law. And again, other beliefs he had were like a gnat on my arm.”
In a new interview for MS Now’s “The Best People” podcast, published on Monday, March 9, Notaro has reflected on her past friendship even further.
Keep scrolling for more insight into Notaro’s falling out with Hines:
Notaro Felt ‘Ridiculous’ After Kennedy’s Power Move
“Tig and Cheryl: True Story” involved the two hosts dissecting a documentary every week, with their musings often resulting in humorous anecdotes and observations. Notaro said during her MS Now interview that the work felt different in the wake of Kennedy, 72, announcing his campaign.
“There were things he thought and felt that I didn’t agree with, but he didn’t have the platform he got in the pandemic. I think that I needed to stop doing the podcast, because it was so ridiculous, it was so stupid— our show — that it was hard to be doing that when he was gaining momentum and speaking,” she told host Nicole Wallace.
Tig Notaro Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for The Creative Coalition
Notaro’s Stand-Up Shows Became Impacted
Notaro said during the MS Now interview that her affiliation with Hines and Kennedy led to politically fuelled heckling during her stand-up performances.
“People would interrupt my stand-up shows and yell, ‘Bobby is crazy!’” Notaro said. “I was telling Cheryl that I know it’s a small percentage that pushes back online or yells out at shows, but I was, like, ‘Man, this is not my world. I don’t do this. I don’t want to be a part of this.’”
Notaro noted that Hines was initially understanding of her decision to exit their podcast. “She [Hines] was like, ‘I understand,’ but she wanted to keep doing the podcast. I had to step away, but I loved her so much,” Notaro recalled.
Notaro was replaced by Rachael Harris on “Tig and Cheryl: True Story,” but production ended for good in December 2023.
Their Friendship Dynamic Shifted After Notaro Left the Podcast
Notaro said she was upset as her friendship with Hines changed in the wake of her departure from the podcast. “What was most upsetting to me is we were in such opposing places, but I continued to reach out to her and send her love and support because I didn’t know what was going on behind closed doors. Then things shifted very severely,” she stated in the interview.
“I realized one day that she doesn’t ever reach out to me anymore. She responds to me, but she doesn’t reach out to me. I had to kind of shake myself out of denial that, ‘Oh, she’s gone,’ and, ‘OK, I need to let this go. I need to let it go.’”
Cheryl Hines Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Accessories Council
Notaro Denies ‘Dumping’ Hines as a Friend
The comedian also claimed that reports stating that she “dumped” Hines were incorrect. “What was a bummer is that there’s some interviews claiming I dumped her and left her in the dust because of Bobby, but I was trying to be a friend to her even though I didn’t feel like I could continue with the podcast,” she said during the MS Now interview. “It’s been very strange, and I think I’ve moved past the confusion and sadness.”
Hines Felt Helpless Amid Notaro’s Exit From the Podcast
Hines said during a November 2025 episode of the ‘“Howie Mandel Does Stuff” podcast that she felt helpless when Notaro left. “When it was feeling a lot for her, there wasn’t much I could do about it other than leave my husband,” she said at the time. “This is what she feels she needs to do for herself … and she feels she needs to distance herself from me.”
Before this cool kid in his fancy beret turned into an American actor, he was just admiring his famous ‘rents and growing up in sunny Los Angeles …
He’s most known for playing Hughie on the hit Prime Video superhero series “The Boys” … as well as playing Marvel in “The Hunger Games.”
Gavin Newsom To Pete Hegseth
You Blew $93 Billion In Taxes On Steak, Lobster & Crab!!!
Published
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Updated
Gavin Newsom is having some fun at the expense of Pete Hegseth, slamming the Department of War Secretary for going on a $93 billion taxpayer-funded spending spree to buy pricey steaks, lobsters and crabs.
The California Governor, and likely 2028 Democratic presidential candidate, ripped Hegseth for his lavish spending habits during the last month of the fiscal year in September 2025, according to government watchdog Open the Books. The watchdog highlighted that Hegseth’s bulk purchases were the largest of any federal agency since 2008.
Waiting for your permission to load the Twitter Tweet.
As a result, Newsom’s press office took a monster-size shot at Hegseth, writing in all caps on X Tuesday, “HEGSETH BLOWING $93 BILLION OF TAXPAYER DOLLARS IN 1 MONTH !!”
Newsom also gave Hegseth crap about his shopping binge after the Fort Worth Star-Telegram/TNS posted an AI image of Hegseth kicking back while surrounded by lobster tail, ribeye steak and Alaskan king crab.
Breaking it all down, the Department of War reportedly spent $6.9 million on lobster, $15.1 million on steak, and $2 million on crab. The agency also splurged on a $98,329 Steinway & Sons grand piano for the Air Force chief of staff’s residence.
We reached out to The Department of War for comment … so far no word back.
Entertainment
‘Shrinking’ Star Luke Tennie Reacts to Episode 7’s Heartbreaking Loss and How It Changes Everything for Sean
[Editor’s note: The following contains spoilers for Shrinking Season 3, Episode 7.]For three seasons on the Apple TV series Shrinking, Sean (Luke Tennie) has gone from being a client in need of some unconventional therapy from Jimmy (Jason Segel) to a close friend that’s part of a found family that will never let him stop evolving. As he sorted through his own feelings, Sean reconnected with Marisol (Isabella Gomez), made amends for being a jerk, and rekindled their relationship in a much healthier way. Along with helping to guide his friend Jorge (Trey Santiago-Hudson) while he sorts out his own stuff, Sean has found strength in pursuing his dreams.
During this one-on-one interview with Collider, Tennie discussed the upward trajectory of his acting career, also playing characters in Abbott Elementary and The Pitt, how being a former football player is reflected in his current roles, what he’s most proud of when it comes to Sean’s journey, getting to a good place with Alice (Lukita Maxwell), the fun of getting to sing and play guitar with the ensemble cast, and how that shocking final moment of episode seven is going to have a ripple effect.
Collider: As much as I love the scenes that Sean and Jimmy share, and that Sean and Derek share, I also love the moments that Sean has had with Paul. How does it feel to be in a moment in your life and career where you can have Harrison Ford say things to you like, “Don’t be a hug bitch”?
LUKE TENNIE: I don’t know where my career is going from here. I don’t know what I’m going to do. It kind of seems like it’s done. I’m just getting started, but if this is not a peak, I don’t know what to tell you. It’s great, and not just Harrison, but every single cast member on the entire show. With Lukita [Maxwell] and Rachel [Stubington] and Isabella [Gomez] and Trey [Santiago-Hudson], who plays Jorge, I feel like I get to be a part of people who will be stars. And then, obviously, I get to be a part of people who’ve been stars. So, it’s a really exciting position to be in on Shrinking, at this time in my career. No matter where I look, in the next five years or in the past, there’s a bunch of excellent artists who I can say, “Hey, I know that person,” and that’s pretty cool.
Luke Tennie Just Wants To Continue To Elevate the Quarterbacks He’s Supporting in ‘Shrinking,’ ‘Abbott Elementary’ and ‘The Pitt’
“Maybe one day, I’ll be a quarterback, but for right now, I’m blocking, and I’m blocking well and hard.”
You’re doing this TV series with Harrison Ford, and you’re popping up over at Abbott Elementary. And then, two hit TV shows aren’t enough for you, so you also doing The Pitt. How exciting is it to be doing three hit TV shows all at once? When you go from Shrinking to Abbott to The Pitt, do you realize just how important an ensemble is that really clicks and finds that magic?
TENNIE: You found it. There’s the secret. A lot of people take certain things for granted as performers. I’m comfortable saying, you know the idea that there are no small parts? That’s not necessarily true. I think there are small parts, and there’s a reason for it. I am a supporting actor. That is what I do. I do it well. I used to play football. And for me, to act as though my position on the offensive line is the same as a wide receiver or a quarterback, no, I block a block for the quarterback. I feel like I get to continue to block for all these different quarterbacks. And when I say quarterback in the metaphor that I’m using, I’m talking about people who are multi-hyphenates. Look at Jason [Segel]. He’s a writer, executive producer and star. Look at Quinta [Brunson]. She’s a writer, executive producer and star. Look at Noah [Wyle]. He’s a writer, executive producer and star.
I am blocking for these quarterbacks, and they’re just like, “Hey, man, I’ll have this guy come back for me.” For me, it’s an honor to be in a position where I am playing a supporting part. Every time I step onto the set, it’s for me to support. It’s an honor and a privilege for me, and I take it very seriously because the positions that I’m put in right now are to elevate these quarterbacks in a specific way. Maybe one day, I’ll be a quarterback, but for right now, I’m blocking, and I’m blocking well and hard. I couldn’t be happier. I’m also on the same lot. All these shows shoot at Warner Bros. I know everybody now. I know where the gym is at. I know how to get to the parking lot. I know where the sun sets in the best spot. I’ve been working there all year. By the time I get back to Shrinking, ideally, I’ll be warm, ready, still on the lot, hyping, and ready to go.
I love that Sean has gone from being lost, to running a food truck, to being in this romantic relationship with Marisol, to now pursuing even bigger dreams as a chef. How are you most proud of Sean and who he has become since he started on the show?
TENNIE: That’s connected to your first point about this ensemble. There is no way that Sean would have access to any of that without the other characters. He wouldn’t have the truck if it wasn’t for Liz. Liz wouldn’t have had the money for the truck if it wasn’t for Derek. Sean never would have had the idea to start the truck if he wasn’t at the art gallery with Gaby. And Gaby was the person who make sure that Sean had a therapist, in Jimmy. It’s all connected. All this growth and opportunity that Sean is having is because of the environment that he’s in and all these people just saying, “Oh, can I help here? Can I help there?” And Sean wouldn’t have the truck if it wasn’t for Alice invoking the stones, so that he could get it from Liz and Derek. It’s all connected in such a beautiful way.
‘Shrinking’ Season 3 Review: One of Apple TV’s Best, Most Heartfelt Comedy Series Should End Here
Will this be the last we see of Jimmy and his found family?
Alice and Sean have really been able to talk things out together this season. I love the moment that they have in episode five when Alice reminds Sean that she tried to kiss him and she tells him that they’ve both been hiding from the world because of what they’ve been through. What was that scene like to share with Lukita Maxwell and how did it feel to really get them to that place, especially since it has been a journey to get there?
TENNIE: Yeah, it’s been a long time coming. In Shrinking, we see a lot of balance in relationships. There are mirrors that Bill [Lawrence], Brett [Goldstein] and Jason [Segel], and the rest of the other writers nail. If you remember the speech that Jimmy gave to Liz about, “You’re unforgiven. You’re banned from my house,” I love that speech because it’s incredible. You can see the other side of that from Liz’s perspective, as these characters grow. Sean is somebody who’s been on the older end of that relationship with Alice and hasn’t really experienced a real check from her, and he maybe took for granted the fact that he’s got a couple of years on her and thinking that there’s only learning happening in one direction. When she then schools him, he’s got to either live up to it or let his ego take over. I think that Sean is mature enough at this point to begin participating in his life and join Alice in not hiding anymore, which is a really cool thing to see.
The Ensemble Scenes in ‘Shrinking’ Often Feel Like Big Holiday Gathering Moments
“It should feel like a family reunion.”
I also loved the moment in episode seven with everyone around the piano singing together and you’ve got a guitar. What was it like to have a moment like that where you guys are all together and singing, and then you also throw in some laughs with Cobie Smulders singing so off key?
TENNIE: That’s our show. That’s Shrinking. All these little scenes build up to when the family gets together again for those big scenes. For a lot of people, that’s how life is punctuated. A lot of people don’t have those families to connect with over the holidays. The reality is, when the family is together in a healthy moment, that’s what can punctuate a lot of people’s lives throughout the year, and that’s how the show is punctuated. We’ll have these two people over here, and these two people there, and then every once in a while, you’ll see everyone together again. When viewers see that on Shrinking, it should feel like Thanksgiving, it should feel like Christmas, it should feel like when everybody gets together on the 4th of July. It should feel like a family reunion, to a degree.
Did you know that song at all? How did you come to play guitar in that scene?
TENNIE: Did I know that song? Have I seen Twilight? Absolutely! I did learn the chords in my trailer for a bit because I said to the director, “Is it cool if I played his guitar?” He was like, “Oh, it’s real cool if you play the guitar. Do you know the chords?” I said, “I just learned them in the trailer.” He said, “If you know the chords, then you can play it.” I was like, “All right, I’m playing it. Let’s play it!” I got to play because I just felt like that would be something that Sean would do. Sean is low-key and understated. He probably would sing if his friends wanted to, but to do something where he gets to hide a little bit, I obsess over the little details. The guitar being in front of you versus singing was one of those things where he got to participate in a low-key way, so I’m glad that they accepted that.
Losing Maya Will Have a Ripple Effect Through the Remainder of ‘Shrinking’ Season 3
“It’s going to change the direction of how they live their lives.”
Along with all the funny this season, there is a serious moment when Gaby learns about the loss of Maya and how that ripples through everyone on the show, including Sean. What is it like to throw Sherry Cola into the mix this season and to have her on the show?
TENNIE: I started following Sherry after I met her on socials. She’s everywhere. She’s in this show, that show, the up show, the down show. She’s everywhere. She’s able to fit into so many different pieces of art because of how versatile she is a performer, but also because of the warmth that she brings to her characters. She was perfect for that part in Shrinking because we knew where it was headed, and it needed to be a lasting impression. Sherry is the performer that can make that happen. The impression that she put on the show will live in Sean and Gaby. It’s going to change the direction of how they live their lives. It’s going to make them pay a lot more attention to how they operate and move through this world where they are aware of how therapy can potentially help people. Her contribution was a lot more than just being funny and witty and warm. It really alters the entire course of a couple of characters on our show. It was a pretty important part to cast. Shout-out to (casing directors) Brett [Benner] and Debby [Romano]. They did it again. They found the perfect performer for the part.
- Release Date
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January 27, 2023
- Network
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Apple TV
Shrinking is available to stream on Apple TV.
Kyle Cooke
I’m Not Dating Ava Dash…
and Amanda Ain’t Dating West Wilson!
Published
Bravo
Kyle Cooke is denying dating “Next Gen NYC” cast member Ava Dash … and giving his two thoughts on rumors Amanda Batula is getting with one of their “Summer House” costars!
Check out the clip — Kyle appeared on “Watch What Happens Live” Tuesday night and fully squashed the romance chatter going on about him and Ava.
ICYMI, reports circled that he and his fellow reality star were holding hands at dinner over the weekend, but he tells Andy Cohen the entire table was holding hands to do a group blessing.
And regarding the gossip about his estranged wife Amanda, he says he believes rumors that she’s eyeing down their co-star West Wilson is BS — though he says if they were dating, he just wants her to be happy.
As you know, the Loverboy founder and Amanda announced they were parting ways back in January after 4 years of marriage. Amanda has said she’s open to dating … but isn’t looking for anything too serious.
Entertainment
Liza Minnelli says late costar Gene Hackman was 'downright rude' on set of “Lucky Lady”
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Minnelli and Hackman starred alongside Burt Reynolds in the 1975 dramedy, in which their characters form a love triangle.
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