After his breakout role in a vertical microdrama, Nick Skonberg is opening up about his decision to make his next film his last.

“There was definitely a moment after that viral tweet [about my role on Loving My Brother’s Best Friend] blew up that I was like, ‘OK, maybe this is just my full time thing for the next little bit while I’m auditioning for other things,’” Skonberg, 23, exclusively told Us. “Then I think I was kind of taking a step back and looking at the microdrama industry as a whole.”

Skonberg knew he didn’t want to be boxed into one medium.

“How can I form my own kind of voice within this? Because the vertical timeline moves fast. Audiences are expecting an actor to come back every month or every month and a half, which is very different from a traditional acting career,” he noted. “Most actors on a certain level, you’re going to see them once a year. You’ll see them for the two months before that film comes out and then you’ll see them during that film.”

After filming his second vertical film, The Cheer Scandal, Skonberg chose to make a change, adding, “I was looking at what can I do to stand out a little bit. Maybe if I can approach this more like a traditional Hollywood career and am a bit more specific with the [microdramas] that I do and I have a delay in between projects, I can build some anticipation with that.”

He continued: “I’m specific about the movies I do and I feel good about [that]. Especially because there’s some great actors in the vertical scene but you’re expected to do a lot of films. I thought it would be interesting for what I’m trying to do if I kept my numbers small.”

The choice came with some pressure. “But I was also thinking that if there’s a way to make that opportunity really a launch point then that means I have to play it smart and specific,” he explained. “There is definitely pressure. But I really hope people are excited. I’m cooking something that I think will make up for my absence.”

Many TikTok users are familiar with ads popping up on their For You Page for fanfiction-esque shows. From age-gap romances to forbidden love stories, each miniseries feels like a mix between a soap opera and a Lifetime movie. The point of the ads is to drive users to download applications such as ReelShort, CandyJar and DramaBox that host the short shows, which usually last a minute or so per episode and are designed for mobile viewing.

CandyJar’s content — including Skonberg’s Loving My Brother’s Best Friend — went viral as mostly female viewers tuned in to get their romance fix. Skonberg, meanwhile, got his start doing short films. His collaboration with CandyJar marked his first role out of college and paved the way for more opportunities — including him being more involved in his third and final project with the company.

“We’re not officially greenlit yet but we’re pipelining to an official green light for the third and final vertical that I am going to do with CandyJar. I’m writing and producing on this one as well, which is exciting,” he told Us. “I’ve been prepping hard for that the past couple months.”

Skonberg’s swan song with CandyJar will connect more to his roots.

“It comes from my genuine love of the coming-of-age genre. There is a little bit of Risky Business in there. There’s a little bit of American Graffiti and Rebel Without a Cause. There is a forbidden romance,” he teased. ”I was trying to figure out how to add spectacle to this. These characters are like 17 but I think we pulled off some cool stuff. I’m just looking at how we can really make something that feels a little definitive for verticals at this early stage. How can we really like — as a collective — create something that the audience has been wanting?”

Looking back at his time at CandyJar, Skonberg couldn’t be more grateful.

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“I’m really excited that the industry at large is taking a look at it. That makes me really confident coming into this third one. It makes me just really happy for all the people there,” he added. “I can’t say enough how good the people at Candy Jar are. It’s just really good people doing hard work.”

Skonberg, for his part, is hoping to do more feature films, sharing, “There’s so many interesting things with the landscape films that are going out right now. There’s a lot of parts that I want to play and a lot that haven’t been written that I wanted to play that’ll hopefully come my way.”

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Later this year, Skonberg will appear in his first feature film titled Bloodstained Ivory. He is also hoping to explore more of every genre — including rom-coms — while also expanding into directing in the future.

“I lost 15 pounds [for this role]. I played piano for five months. It was a long process but it’s a film I think that means a lot to me,” he teased. “I also really wanted to play with my height in this role. Something that I wanted to explore was the danger that can exist in a guy that you go to class with or a guy that lives next door. It was about making him really unassuming until he needed to be. It also just made me feel like not myself and I think that was what I wanted for this guy.”

He concluded: “Part of the reason I fell in love with acting was it felt like I was able to have a voice that didn’t have any responsibility to Nick. I love a transformation role. I think it’s where I feel the most comfortable.”

Marvel Studios has managed to pull off something that feels almost impossible in today’s internet age: keeping one of the biggest casting secrets completely under wraps.

As Spider-Man: Brand New Day swings into theaters this week, fans are still asking the same question they’ve been debating for more than a year:

Who is Sadie Sink actually playing?

The speculation reached another level after Sony released a new promotional clip featuring Sink, where her answer about her character is intentionally bleeped out, instantly sending social media into detective mode once again. While the clip offers no definitive answers, it is the latest example of Marvel leaning into one of the film’s biggest mysteries.

Marvel Isn’t Hiding It by Accident

Director Destin Daniel Cretton recently explained that the secrecy is completely intentional and for good reason.

“There is a very real reason” the role hasn’t been revealed, Cretton said, adding that audiences will understand why once they have seen the movie. He also noted that while some fans enjoy knowing every detail ahead of release, preserving surprises is part of the experience.

That comment alone has convinced many fans that Sink’s character is not simply another supporting role, but someone whose identity could reshape the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The Biggest Fan Theories

Gwen Stacy

Perhaps the safest prediction is Gwen Stacy.

Peter Parker is beginning a brand new chapter following the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, making this an ideal opportunity to introduce one of Spider Man’s most iconic comic book characters.

With MJ and Ned moving on with their lives and no longer remembering Peter, a new relationship could naturally fit into this next phase of the franchise.

Jean Grey

For months, the internet was convinced Sink would make her MCU debut as Jean Grey, finally bringing one of Marvel’s most powerful mutants into the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The theory made sense on paper. Sink has the look, the acting range, and Marvel is steadily building toward introducing the X Men.

However, Tom Holland recently appeared to pour cold water on that idea, saying, “Well, she’s not in this movie, but it would be pretty cool.” Whether fans believe Holland, or think he is simply protecting another Marvel secret, is another story entirely.

Jean Grey [Marvel Comics]

Mayday Parker

Another increasingly popular theory suggests Sink could be playing Mayday Parker, Peter Parker’s daughter from an alternate universe.

Given Marvel’s continued use of multiverse storytelling, introducing Mayday now could open the door for future Spider Man stories while expanding the Parker family legacy beyond Peter himself.

Rachel Summers

Some fans have gone even deeper into Marvel lore by predicting Rachel Summers, the daughter of Jean Grey and Cyclops from an alternate timeline.

If Marvel plans to merge Spider Man’s street level adventures with the arrival of mutants, Rachel could serve as an unexpected bridge between those worlds.

Rachel Summers [Marvel Comics]

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Why the Secret Matters

Marvel has spent years trying to preserve genuine surprises in an era dominated by leaks and spoilers.

The studio has kept Sadie Sink largely absent from trailers, TV spots, and promotional materials, making her one of the few major MCU characters whose identity has remained completely unknown leading up to release.

With Brand New Day positioned as a fresh beginning for Peter Parker after the world forgot his identity, introducing a significant new character makes perfect narrative sense.

Whether that character is Gwen Stacy, an X Men icon, or someone fans have not even considered yet, Marvel clearly believes the reveal is worth protecting.

The Wait Is Almost Over

Fortunately, fans will not have to speculate much longer.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day arrives in theaters July 31, meaning the internet’s biggest MCU mystery is only days away from being solved. Until then, every new promotional clip, including the latest bleeped out interview with Sadie Sink, is only fueling the excitement.

One thing is certain: if Marvel has gone to these lengths to keep her character secret, the reveal is likely to be one of the film’s biggest moments.

In 2026 so far, Chloe Bailey has clocked social media trolls at least four times. After this weekend, that number went up to five! On TikTok, Bailey went diss-for-diss with critics who spoke on her appearance without makeup.

RELATED: Clocked It? Chloe Bailey Responds After TikTok User Criticizes Her BET Awards Look (VIDEOS)

Singer Flexes Her Happiness In New TikTok Video

In the last week alone, Chloe Bailey has been sharing what appear to be vacation videos in St. Lucia. She’s shown herself rocking carnival costumes and hopping off yachts into clear beach waters. This past weekend, one of the TT videos she shared was a voiceover about loving life. In the video, Chloe is lip-syncing the audio while holding the camera above her face, cheesing and dipping her bead-adorned locs into the water. Her caption says “happiness.”

@chloebaileywashere

happiness!!!

♬ original sound – adventurefamdam

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Chloe Bailey Goes IN On Trolls

As of Monday, the video has over 3.4 million views and upwards of 2,700 comments. While some are praising Chloe Bailey’s happy glow, others are sharing not-so-nice opinions about the singer’s appearance, including her smile and facial expression. Rather than let the trolls drag her down, Bailey stepped into the comment section with them.

After one user commented, “Celebs without makeup…,” the singer replied, “Y’all see me without makeup all the time stfu” and added laughing emojis. Another user commented a photo of Kermit the Frog with oversized white teeth. To that one, Chloe responded, “and you giving ET phone home with that head.” 

TikToker @callmemaw001 wrote, “Wait this ain’t a filter,” adding a GIF of a woman laughing in bed. Bailey responded, “Nope but you should put one on next time, it’d help a lot.” Another user commented, “Idkkkk sum ain’t right sistaaa,” and Bailey replied:

“Let’s try to figure it out together & then we’ll try to figure out why yo bored a*s wasting time posting on my page sista.” 

Meanwhile @jus_tianna said, “I was trying to figure out who this was until I saw the name.” Bailey responded, “With or without seeing your name or face, no1 would know who the hell you are.” After another user asked “Is that you,” the ‘Grownish’ star said, “Yes! But let’s invest in some Cecred for that hairline.” 

One TikToker spoke of how society is used to using filter so much “that we forget our natural skin.” In her reply, Chloe Bailey said, “Not me ma’am, I post all the time with & without filter. Both versions are beautiful!”

When someone else called out the video’s angle, Bailey responded, “These lips…get some chapstick.” Then someone asked her whether she’s the same Chloe on Instagram. She responded with a zoomed in selfie, writing, “Yes hi hello how are you.” 

Call Her The Clap Back Queen!

As mentioned, it’s not Chloe Bailey’s first time poppin’ off on critics. In January, she addressed shade about her weight and reminding the haters that her “body TEA.”

Just a few months later, in April, she checked another social media user for trying to shut down her “baddie energy” but saying she’s only “a cute lil lovely girl.” To that, she said, “Yes. I am a cute lil lovely girl and a bad b*tch. Don’t put me in a box just bc you’re boring & have no fun.”

Then, a month later, she again cleared rumors about her physique and shut down pregnancy talks. Finally, earlier this month, she had words for a TikToker who slammed her BET Awards look.

“You don’t have to like my hair and you don’t have to like my outfit, but you would never get a chance with me brother man,” Chloe Bailey said in a clap back video aimed at the TikToker.

RELATED: Oop! Nancy Grace Claps Back At Social Media Critics Calling Her Out For Digging Into Nolan Wells’ Case (UPDATE)

Margot Robbie was recently photographed enjoying a low-key shopping excursion through Paris alongside her mother, Sarie Kessler, over the weekend.

However, the Hollywood star appeared to display a prominent bruise on her right thigh, prompting speculation regarding its origin.

The European outing arrives amid continued interest in Margot Robbie’s life, ranging from her record-shattering real estate acquisition on Australia’s Gold Coast to her views on fitness and body image.

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Robbie turned heads during a weekend outing in Paris, where the actress was seen sporting a noticeable bruise on her leg while spending time with her mother.

The Australian star appeared relaxed and cheerful as she strolled through the French capital alongside Sarie Kessler on Saturday evening.

According to the Daily Mail, while enjoying the casual shopping trip, a large “bruise” could be seen on Robbie’s right thigh, visible beneath the hem of her skirt. Despite the mark, the actress looked completely at ease, smiling and chatting throughout the outing.

Robbie embraced understated elegance in a pale yellow two-piece ensemble featuring delicate lace accents. She completed the look with black ballet flats, oversized sunglasses and a matching leather handbag, while wearing her blonde hair down.

See photos of the actress’s bruised thigh here.

The Actress’s ‘Bruise’ Raised Some Eyebrows

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Robbie’s bruise drew some reactions online, with many noting that it may not be a wound, and instead just an “indentation” due to the actress holding something heavy on her lap.

“Looks like a pressure crease, not a bruise. She probably had a bag or something sitting on her lap,” a person said.

The sighting comes as the Oscar-nominated actress continues to make headlines away from the screen.

Robbie was recently identified as the owner of a luxury estate in Currumbin Valley on Queensland’s Gold Coast, a purchase that reportedly set a new benchmark for residential property sales in the state.

Margot Robbie Reflects On Gold Coast Childhood After Record-Breaking Property Purchase

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The expansive ranch-style residence sits on several acres and features six bedrooms, six bathrooms, a swimming pool, tennis court, horse stables and extensive vehicle storage, offering a private retreat in one of the region’s most sought-after locations.

The purchase also reflects Robbie’s enduring connection to her Australian roots. The actress has previously spoken about her childhood memories of growing up in the Gold Coast area, describing a carefree upbringing surrounded by nature.

“I’ve said that to friends now who grew up in New York City or London, and they have no idea what I mean. And I say: ‘Well, there were camphor laurel trees down the back past the paddock, and Mum could yell out the window when dinner was ready,” she recalled. “You realize how lucky you are to have grown up on the Gold Coast.”

Since leaving Australia after her breakout role on “Neighbors,” Robbie has built an impressive international career, earning acclaim for performances in films such as “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” “Mary Queen of Scots” and the global phenomenon “Barbie.”

The Actress’s Trainer Reveals The Fitness Philosophy Behind Her Healthy Lifestyle

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While Robbie is now one of Hollywood’s biggest names, dividing her time between Australia, London and Los Angeles, the actress has remained committed to a balanced approach to health and fitness.

Robbie, who married filmmaker Tom Ackerley in 2016 after they met on the set of “Suite Française,” welcomed her first child in 2024. Despite the demands of her career, those who work closely with her say she has never been driven by unrealistic appearance goals.

Her longtime trainer, David Higgins, recently revealed that Robbie’s fitness routine has always centered on wellbeing rather than achieving a specific look. According to Higgins, the actress views exercise as “nothing more than being strong and healthy, physically, and mentally.”

That mindset reportedly remained unchanged during preparations for “Barbie.” Higgins explained that he was not given instructions to help Robbie achieve a particular aesthetic for the role. Instead, his focus was simply on keeping members of the cast active and in good condition throughout filming.

The trainer’s comments align with Robbie’s own views on body image and representation. Ahead of the release of “Barbie,” the actress spoke about the importance of avoiding narrow beauty standards, arguing that no single version of Barbie should be presented as the ideal that women are expected to resemble.

“I don’t think you should say, ‘This is the one version of what Barbie is, and that’s what women should aspire to be and look and act like,’” she told the Telegraph.

Margot Robbie Says ‘Wuthering Heights’ Romance Scenes Were No Different From Any Other

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Robbie’s commitment to authenticity extends to her acting work as well. Earlier this year, she addressed the attention surrounding the romantic scenes in her film, “Wuthering Heights,” insisting they were approached no differently from any other part of the film.

Speaking at the movie’s Los Angeles premiere in January, Robbie explained that the emotional demands of playing Catherine Earnshaw proved far more challenging than the story’s intimate moments.

“No different to all the other scenes that we do. The movie kind of demands a lot of all of us,” she said, per People Magazine, noting that her “character essentially cries in every single scene, but no, it was a joy. I loved playing a character who kind of swings from one wild emotion to the other in an instant.”

The highly anticipated adaptation, directed by Emerald Fennell, paired Robbie with “Saltburn” star Jacob Elordi, who took on the role of Heathcliff.

It drew mixed reviews after its release in February, with critics slamming the movie for its “exhausting sex scenes.”

Kelly Clarkson is giving fans a peek into her life as she navigates love, independence, and singlehood.

The singer recently opened up about her perspective on modern romance and the challenges of maintaining a meaningful partnership, noting that in relationships, it’s often difficult to keep the sparks going. 

This comes months after the talk show host confirmed the end of “The Kelly Clarkson” show after seven successful seasons.

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During a performance at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Clarkson offered fans a candid perspective on remaining single. Responding to ongoing public curiosity about her romantic life, the talk show host jokingly explained that witnessing the struggles of other couples often makes her appreciate returning home alone. 

“People are like, Oh, why are you single?’ And I’m like, ‘First of all, there are a lot of people out here making single look real good,” she said.

Clarkson defended her current lifestyle choices to the audience, noting that maintaining a successful partnership requires constant effort. “If you are in a relationship, the hardest part I feel like is just keeping that fire alive and still dating… and, like, still making it feel magical and not monotonous,” she added, per Page Six.

Notably, the 44-year-old artist has maintained a low-profile personal life following the finalization of her divorce from late ex-husband Brandon Blackstock in 2022, with whom she shares two children. 

Blackstock sadly passed away in August 2025 following a battle with melanoma.

The Singer Has Been Focused On Her Children 

Following the passing of her ex-husband, Blackstock, reports indicate that the “Stronger” singer’s primary focus remains on supporting her two young children. Even as she strives to balance her career commitments with her home life, insiders share that she maintains a very tight-knit inner circle.

The Blast reported that sources note that while Clarkson remains open to finding love again when the time is right, bringing a new partner into her family’s routine isn’t currently on her horizon. 

Additionally, she has no intention of walking down the aisle again, often joking that she never wanted to marry the first time.

Kelly Clarkson Is Prioritizing Her Family After Ending Her Daytime Show

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Clarkson’s decision to focus on her children while remaining open to finding love again coincides with her decision to walk away from her daytime talk show. 

Weeks ago, she addressed her decision to conclude her popular daytime program after seven successful seasons. The singer clarified that stepping away from the talk show was a conscious choice made on her own terms to focus on her home life, according to The Blast.

Clarkson acknowledged that the shift in family dynamics following the passing of her ex-husband changed her perspective on what matters most. This shift essentially made her realize that life is precious, pushing her to step more into her role as a mother.

The artist reassured fans that walking away from daytime television does not mean she is stepping away from her career entirely. She explained that she still maintains several professional commitments and projects, but reducing her overall workload felt necessary.

Pink Stepped In As A Guest Host For The ‘Kelly Clarkson’ Show

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As Clarkson’s show prepares to conclude its final season, pop icon Pink stepped in as a special guest host to launch Women’s History Month in early March. 

The Blast reported that to mark the occasion, the show’s official social media accounts offered fans a glimpse of the singer dropping in on set wearing a shimmering silver bodysuit and holding a host’s clipboard. 

The temporary takeover was teased in a playful video featuring the two longtime friends sharing an embrace on stage. While the announcement sparked enthusiasm among fans hoping to see Pink transition into daytime television permanently, her appearance was slated as a special one-week event.

Kelly Clarkson Shared An Unfiltered Confession During Her Residency

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Even as the “Kelly Clarkson” show draws to a close, Clarkson has continued to invest her energy into connecting with fans at her Las Vegas residency. 

During a recent show at Caesars Palace, the talk show host shared a humorous, overly detailed story about a severe hotel bathroom experience. She prefaced it by saying, “This is TMI, but I’m gonna go ahead and say it,” per The Blast.

Wondering aloud whether she had contracted a widespread foodborne infection, she clarified that she had not been officially diagnosed.

The musician recounted the physical toll the ordeal took after she returned to her hotel room, lightheartedly comparing her situation to the iconic food poisoning sequence in the comedy film “Bridesmaids.”

Laughing off the experience, Clarkson joked that she was glad to be single in that moment, as no potential partner would want to witness such an ordeal.

Kendra Wilkinson is reminding fans that success doesn’t always come without setbacks. The former reality television star gave followers an unusually raw glimpse into her life after revealing that she had been dropped by a real estate client, admitting the disappointment left her in tears. 

While the emotional posts exposed just how difficult the day had become, Wilkinson later returned with a message of gratitude, showing she wasn’t ready to let one professional setback define her journey.

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On Sunday, Kendra Wilkinson turned to her Instagram Stories to share one of the toughest moments she has experienced since building a career in luxury real estate.

Posting a photo of herself with tears streaming down her face, she revealed that a client had decided to part ways after she had invested significant time into the deal.

“When a client fires you… after all the work you put in. Ya, I’m struggling today, guys,” she wrote.

The difficult admission was followed by another video in which the former reality TV star struggled to hold back tears as she described the emotional weight of the situation.

“I know that we’re living in a world of struggle right now, I know that. But it’s just… it’s so hard. It’s so hard right now,” she said.

Wilkinson Admits The Pressure Has Been Building

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Despite the setback, Kendra Wilkinson said she has remained committed to giving her two children, whom she shares with ex-husband Hank Baskett, the stable life they deserve.

According to her, “I feel like I’m doing everything right in my life—I’m raising my kids and putting them first,” she said. “I’m doing everything good—I’m a good person. It’s just such a struggle right now.”

The fired client wasn’t the only challenge weighing on Wilkinson. As she continued speaking openly with fans, the former “Girls Next Door” star revealed that recent months had been filled with conflict and disappointment.

She said she had been “fighting people that work with me, getting fired, people being rude and mean,” admitting that the constant setbacks had begun affecting her emotionally. “It’s taking a toll,” Wilkinson confessed.

Kendra Wilkinson Thanks Fans For Lifting Her Spirits

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Only hours after breaking down online, Wilkinson returned to Instagram with a noticeably brighter outlook.

In a video, she thanked supporters for the overwhelming number of messages they had sent, explaining that their kindness helped her regroup after what had been an incredibly difficult day.

“Hey, guys, I want to thank you so much for the prayers, and the well wishes, and the thoughts, and everything, and all the positive messages I’m getting,” she said.

Determined not to let the setback define her, the 41-year-old joked that she had refreshed herself and was ready to move forward. 

“I put in some eye drops, put on [my] face, and [was] ready to take on a new day,” Wilkinson remarked, adding, “Got to get back up, right? I do have to brush my hair. But it’s time to fight a new one, and live and enjoy, and be grateful for the things I do have – I love you guys; thank you.”

Wilkinson Once Reflected On The Career That Changed Her Life

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The emotional update stands in complete contrast to the optimism Kendra Wilkinson shared earlier this year while reflecting on her growing success in real estate.

After earning her California real estate license in 2020, the former Playboy model steadily built a name for herself in Malibu’s competitive luxury housing market.

Speaking with Realtor.com in March, Wilkinson revealed her business had reached a major milestone after developer Amit Apel entrusted her with multimillion-dollar listings ranging from $6 million to $20 million.

The opportunity, she explained, stemmed from a chance encounter with Amit’s son, Vittal Apel, years earlier.

“One day I was in the mall, and I was just genuinely nice to someone. We just started talking, and it was just such a nice talk, and next thing you know, he’s like, ‘I’m the son of a huge developer,’” Wilkinson recalled.

Years later, that brief conversation came full circle. “Three years later, he called me and he’s like, ‘We’re ready to list with you,’ and I was like, ‘Oh my God,’” Wilkinson said. 

She added, “I met him randomly at the mall, so it’s all about timing. It’s about networking, and it’s about being nice to people, and being good.”

Kendra Wilkinson Reveals The Challenges Behind Her Career Growth

The confidence Wilkinson expressed about her growing real estate business didn’t last long. Just a few months after celebrating her multimillion-dollar listings, the former reality star admitted that building a new career had become far more difficult than she expected. 

In a candid Instagram post shared in June, Wilkinson said working in a male-dominated industry had left her feeling isolated and undervalued despite years of commitment. 

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“Being a woman sometimes surrounded by men is scary feels like there’s no room for me a lot of the time even when I do my part of the job. It’s not enough,” she wrote. 

Wilkinson went on to reveal that people had taken advantage of her celebrity status instead of recognizing her work ethic, writing, “People have used me for my celebrity and spit me out even though I don’t even see myself as a celebrity.” 

Although she admitted feeling “beyond heartbroken,” Wilkinson said she hoped she could “shake this off” and continue pursuing the career she still loved.

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s multimillion-dollar charitable gift has prompted deeply personal messages from the families it was created to support. The newlywed couple donated $2 million to Answer the Call NYC, a nonprofit that provides financial assistance to the relatives of New York City police officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel who died in the line of duty. Weeks after the gift was announced, several surviving family members thanked Swift and Kelce while sharing how closely their own lives were already connected to the singer’s music and the football star’s career.

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The $2 million donation was part of the $26 million Swift and Kelce reportedly distributed among at least 20 charitable organizations before their July 3 wedding celebration at Madison Square Garden. Answer the Call NYC publicly thanked the couple in a July 2 Instagram statement from executive director Lauren Profeta.

“We are extremely grateful to Taylor and Travis for their incredible support,” Profeta said. “Their extraordinary donation will ensure that we can continue to provide much-needed financial assistance to the families of New York City’s fallen first responders. We thank them for their kindness, their generosity and for their fulfillment to our collective promise to Never Forget.”

Answer the Call NYC later shared a collection of messages from the families it assists, allowing them to express what the donation meant in their own words.

The Organization Says The Gift Will Make A ‘Tangible Difference’

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In its July 20 Instagram post, Answer the Call NYC explained that multiple families wanted to thank Swift and Kelce personally after learning about their contribution.

“Following the announcement of @taylorswift and @killatrav’s extraordinary $2 million gift to Answer the Call, many of the families we serve wanted to share their gratitude in their own words,” the organization wrote. “Taylor and Travis, thank you for your incredible generosity and for standing with the families of fallen New York City first responders. Your gift will make a tangible difference in their lives.”

An NYPD Detective’s Widow Says The Donation Provides Hope

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Patricia Polimeni was among the surviving relatives who thanked Swift and Kelce. Her husband, NYPD Detective Jack Polimeni, died in April 2020. She told the couple that their contribution represented “so much more than a financial gift.”

“It provides hope, comfort and sense of community for families who are learning to navigate life after the loss of someone who dedicated their life to serving others,” Polimeni wrote. That idea also carried particular significance for families who lost loved ones during the September 11 attacks.

Mary Farino, whose husband, FDNY Battalion Chief Thomas Farino, died in the 9/11 attacks, described the couple’s generosity as especially meaningful ahead of another painful anniversary. “I cannot express how much your donation means!” she wrote.

Farino acknowledged that “this upcoming anniversary of 9/11 will be a tough one” for her family. Her children were still young when they lost their father. “My children were six and 10-years-old when their dad was killed,” she explained.

Farino then revealed that both of her children had developed personal connections to Swift and Kelce over the years. “Later, when my daughter was off to college, all she allowed us to listen to in the car on our trips back and forth was Taylor’s music,” she recalled. “My son is not just a football fan, he is a Travis Kelce fan. How special for my family to have you honor such a great charity.”

One Family Still Remembers Taylor Swift’s Concert Gesture

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Allison Garger also shared her appreciation for the couple’s “amazing” donation. Her husband, FDNY firefighter Thomas J. Kennedy, died in the September 11, 2001 attacks. Garger said her family had supported Swift for years and recalled an unforgettable moment involving her son Michael at one of the singer’s concerts.

“We have been fans of yours forever!” Garger wrote. “Taylor, in the rainy concert at MetLife Stadium one year, you touched my son Michael’s hand, and he has been inspired by you since then. We are forever grateful! Heart-shaped hands forever!”

The memory gave Swift and Kelce’s gift an added layer of meaning for a family that had already been touched by the singer long before the donation was announced.

The Couple Donated To At Least 20 Charities

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Answer the Call NYC was one of numerous organizations that reportedly received support from Swift and Kelce. Their $26 million charitable commitment included donations to nine food banks, with one located in Swift’s hometown of Reading, Pennsylvania.

The couple also directed funds toward three children’s hospitals and seven educational programs.

Netflix is a streaming platform that offers a wide range of shows and movies. With the platform’s success, Netflix has garnered trust in its production of quality shows. From binge-worthy guilty pleasures to high-stakes dramas, Netflix has filled the audience’s entertainment void with impactful TV shows.

Among some of the best the platform has to offer are the bold Netflix original dramas, mind-bending sci-fi, and animated hits with epic visuals. This list of Netflix originals is filled with their very best series that push boundaries and captivate global audiences, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on pop culture.

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‘The Umbrella Academy’ (2019–2024)

Image via Netflix

A chaotic, humorous story that provides relatable themes in a unique way. The Umbrella Academy follows the humorously dysfunctional Hargreaves siblings, as they reunite to solve the secret to their estranged father’s death, all the while coming to terms with themselves, each other, and the unique superpowers they all wield.

The Umbrella Academy takes viewers on a captivating ride. Unfortunately, the series met its conclusion after its fourth season, leaving fans unsure whether they were satisfied with the show’s end or if more was needed. Regardless, lovers of the sci-fi series appreciate the show for its cast of strong performers, unique story, and wild action.

19

‘Sex Education’ (2019–2023)

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This series offers a fun and bold take on the lifestyles of modern teens. Sex Education follows Otis Milburn (Asa Butterfield), a hopelessly awkward teen who, inspired by his mother, a sex therapist, assembles a hidden clinic where he advises his fellow students on sexuality and intimacy.

Sex Education’s portrayal of teenagers’ experiences is raw and unfiltered, making it one of the best teen shows ever. The series is praised for its blunt and progressive approach to discussing sexuality. With its amazing cast of characters and personal storylines, Sex Education provides audiences with a view into controversial topics with comedic moments, sensitivity, and honesty. The Netflix-acclaimed original does its story well, exploring themes of identity, personal growth, and sexuality while blending humor with many heartfelt moments.

18

‘Heartstopper’ (2022–2024)

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Heartstopper is an incredibly wholesome series that premiered in April 2022. The iconic show features a romantic coming-of-age drama that follows British teens, Nick Nelson (Kit Connor) and Charlie Spring (Joe Locke), as they navigate their identities, friendships, school, and love. The wholesome story offers an uplifting tone and genuine storytelling.

With sickeningly sweet moments of budding love and self-acceptance, Heartstopper truly enthralls its audience with a wholesome story. While the series maintains a gentle tone, it also tackles some very tough topics, including bullying, a sense of belonging, mental health, and eating disorders. One of its greatest aspects, such as its positive representation of LGBTQ+ relationships, resonates well with various audiences, solidifying its place on this list.​​​​​

17

‘Bridgerton’ (2020–Present)

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Standing as a cherished favorite of the romance genre since its debut back in 2020, Bridgerton brings to life an incredibly beautiful story. The series, based on the eponymous novels by Julia Quinn, features the Bridgerton household, as they navigate the dramas of the ton, familial challenges, and the show’s highlight, love. Among the drama and the spice is a well-thought-out story.

Bridgerton became wildly popular, loved for its visuals, music, setting, and story. While the show does take a few creative liberties with historical accuracy, its fantastic and enthralling love story quickly wins over any viewers who may be skeptical. With the exploration of important themes like class, identity, gender, love, and family dynamics, it is no wonder the romantic TV show is so loved and is truly one of Netflix’s best.

16

‘Dark’ (2017–2020)

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Premiering in December 2017, this German sci-fi series explores themes of free will, destiny, and the consequences of messing with time. Dark centers around time travel, family skeletons, and a strange town where certain occurrences repeat themselves over several generations. Its mind-bending story and haunting atmosphere completely immerse viewers as they attempt to unravel the puzzles within the fictional town of Winden, Germany.

Dark is known for its intricate storytelling, which challenges viewers with its mysteries, but handsomely rewards dedicated audiences with a deeply satisfying experience and brilliant writing. With well-executed plot twists and intricate time travel mechanics, Dark is a well-thought-out and unique story, leading it to make this list of Netflix’s best.

15

‘Love, Death & Robots’ (2019–Present)

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This animated anthology series debuted on the Netflix platform in 2019, featuring stunning visuals and brilliant storytelling. Love, Death & Robots is a unique series that features a collection of short stories varying in genre, including fantasy, science fiction, and horror. In every installment, there is a unique animation style and a standalone story.

While each episode provides a different experience, Love, Death & Robots, in its entirety, is a refreshing change from the standard sci-fi series. Each episode of the series offers an entertaining surprise due to the series’ anthology format. With deep themes, a variety of amazing animation styles, and breathtaking visuals, Love, Death & Robots appeals to a wide range of viewers, as an innovative must-watch.

14

‘Black Mirror’ (2011–Present)

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Often presenting dystopian futures and unnerving what-if scenarios, Black Mirror is an anthology series that dives into the dark side of technology and its impact on human civilization. With thought-provoking content that challenges standard societal norms, Black Mirror has a habit of creating incredible stories capable of both entertaining and unsettling audiences in the same breath.

With an interesting take on modern technological advancements and their potential consequences, Black Mirror inspires questions and debates about real-world tech. The incredible series can come off a bit cynical during its entertaining episodes, but Black Mirror guides audiences into an interesting frame of mind, as they question ethical ramifications, leading it to be one of the better standouts on Netflix, with its unique premise.

13

‘When They See Us’ (2019)

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This miniseries is a gut-wrenching but necessary portrayal of systemic racism and wrongful imprisonment. Making its debut in 2019, When They See Us, based on the true story of the Central Park Five, follows Black and Latino teens who are wrongfully convicted of a terrible crime in 1989. This exposes the deep and troubling flaws of the U.S. justice system and the lifelong impact on those unfortunate enough to get tangled in it.

When They See Us is a heavy and difficult watch that brings awareness to the truth of the real-life miscarriage of justice. The series offers a view into the incredible feats of human resilience in a powerful way. The series is continuously regarded as one of Netflix’s most notable, offering an impactful story and shedding light on hard truths.

12

‘The Crown’ (2016–2023)

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The Crown offers an intricate depiction of the inner workings of the British Monarchy. Inspired by real events, the series chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, portraying personal and political occurrences that shaped the second half of the 20th century.

The Crown is known for its brilliant performances and high production value. The series provides a look into the complex world of the British monarchy, giving its viewers an immersive setting. The Crown dramatizes true events in a striking way that captivates its audience with the drama that lives behind the throne. The series’ in-depth analysis of personal sacrifice and duty, as well as its stunning cinematography, make it one of Netflix’s most notable original shows.

11

‘The Haunting of Hill House’ (2018)

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This widely acclaimed horror series blends a deep emotional narrative with an entertaining supernatural element. The Haunting of Hill House alternates between two timelines, centering around five siblings who were raised in a haunted house and their present-day battles with grappling with their past traumas.

The series uses a slow-burn approach to inspire tension throughout, and this often creates an awesome and very impactful haunting atmosphere. The Haunting of Hill House is a blend of immersive storytelling, intriguing characters, and a unique approach to horror, using its hair-raising atmosphere to tackle daunting themes of grief and loss. With its genuinely scary moments mixed with touching depth, the series provides a Netflix favorite for fans of the horror genre.