Related: Olivia Wilde’s Relaxed White Pants Are Summer’s Coolest Jean Swap
Advertisement
Entertainment
Adam Sandler Had One Rule For Taylor Swift’s Wedding
Adam Sandler had the privilege of marrying Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in their lavish wedding on July 3. And while some people might’ve been nervous about taking on the role, given that megawatt A-listers had married in front of 1,000+ guests, Sandler was reportedly thrilled to have been asked. In fact, a source close to the actor said that the 59-year-old was so excited, he wasted no time saying yes.
The Blast previously reported that Sandler landed the unexpected role at Swift and Kelce’s wedding, held at Madison Square Garden in New York City. A new source told PEOPLE how it all went down and said the “Happy Gilmore” actor “said yes right away” when asked to officiate the couple’s ceremony.
The insider went on to say that Sandler was “incredibly honored” to have been asked to be part of the pair’s special day, adding that he was the “perfect person” for the job. The source also noted Sandler’s 23-year marriage to his wife, Jackie, as another reason the newlyweds chose him.
Adam Sandler Was Focused On One Thing When He Married Swift And Kelce
Sandler is used to putting on a show for his fans. However, the insider claimed that, for this role, the actor’s only goal was to be genuine and to speak from the heart. “He wasn’t trying to find the perfect words or make it this big production,” the source said. “He just wanted to speak from the heart and pass along a little wisdom that he’s gained from his own happy marriage.”
Although the choice to have Sandler officiate may seem random to some, the actor’s relationship with Swift dates back further than many realize. In a previous interview, Sandler gushed about their friendship, calling the “Lover” singer “incredible” and “so d-mn nice to my family.”
Over the years, Swift has developed a close relationship with the actor’s family, specifically his children Sadie and Sunny. Sandler even joked on Conan O’Brien’s podcast that, despite his years in Hollywood, he still gets nervous whenever he’s in the superstar’s presence.
“Just cause I don’t wanna blow it for my kids… I don’t stay as cool as I can,” he said.
Adam Sandler Developed A Great Relationship With Kelce On The Set Of This Movie
As for Sandler’s relationship with Kelce, the pair developed a great friendship on the set of “Happy Gilmore 2,” in which Kelce has a small role. In January 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs star spoke with Pat McAfee about his experience on set, calling it “off the chain.”
When it came to speaking about Sandler, Kelce said the beloved actor is “every bit as cool off the screen as he is on the screen,” later calling the experience a “dream come true.”
Sandler, meanwhile, echoed those sentiments during his press run, praising the Super Bowl champion and Ohio native as “a gentle, nice guy, and funny as h-ll.”
Sandler Called The Police 48 Hours After He Married Kelce And Swift
A previous report from The Blast details Sandler’s unexpected phone call to the police 48 hours after he wed Kelce and Swift. Public safety dispatcher Chris Reynolds shared that Sandler called the Nantucket Police Department’s non-emergency line after arriving on the island, asking for directions to the nearest local basketball court.
After arriving at the Backus Lane basketball courts, the comedian and actor found a group of guys playing and asked them whether he could jump in. One of the local residents, Andrew Kesler, spoke about the unexpected encounter and praised the 59-year-old for his skills. “He has elite passing. He didn’t miss a pass,” he said. “They were all dimes. His layup game was good. I didn’t really see him shoot the ball.”
Sandler Is Known For His Skills On The Hardwood
@wnba We’ve got some superstars in San Francisco 🫣 Adam Sandler, Jackie Sandler, and E-40 are in the house to catch the action between the @Valkyries and @Las Vegas Aces! #wnba #wnbaseason30 #celebrityrow #basketball #courtside ♬ original sound – WNBA
For those who don’t know, Sandler is an avid basketball fan and player, known for playing with locals and even some NBA players. He’s been spotted courtside at NBA and WNBA games, including the New York Knicks and the Golden State Valkyries.
In 2023, Sandler joined another pickup basketball game with a Los Angeles-based photographer named Xavier Luggage. Speaking with ESPN, the artist said that playing with Sandler was unbelievable before describing one of his passes as “the best pass that I’ve ever received in my life.”
Continue Reading
Since 1999, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has become the blueprint when it comes to crime procedurals on TV. With Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni as the leads, the series tackles episodic cases of crimes of a sexual nature, not shying away from the gravity of the crimes, or the foul motivations of the culprits. But while the series has been praised now for 27 seasons, a new BBC series has been giving the series a run for its money.
First released March 27, 2023, Blue Lights is a crime procedural that depicts the realities of being a police officer so vividly and realistically, that it’s even been compared to HBO’s The Pitt, but for cops instead of ER doctors. The series, which released its third season in the fall of 2025, is already renewed for a fourth installment, and has been getting better season after season.
What Is ‘Blue Lights’ About?
Created by Declan Lawn, Adam Patterson and Stephen Wright, Blue Lights is an action-packed series set in the fictional Blackthorn police station in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The show focuses on three very different new recruits of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Grace (Sian Brooke), Annie (Katherine Devlin), and Tommy (Nathan Braniff), as they try to survive the final weeks of their probation period while working the city’s most difficult frontline calls. From the jump, the inexperienced rookies become involved in intense drama involving drug gangs, loyalist and republican paramilitary networks, undercover operations, and community tensions.
In the third season of the show, which takes off two years into the trio’s work as officers, it has them as more seasoned officers, facing their biggest challenges to date. “Their work will take them into a sinister world hidden behind the veneer of middle-class life, the world of the accountants and lawyers who facilitate organized crime,” the synopsis reads. “The old political and criminal order has gone and a new global gang rule Belfast, bringing danger closer to home for our officers than ever before.” In addition to the main trio, Blue Lights also stars Martin McCann, Andi Osho, Joanne Crawford, Frankie McCafferty and Abigail McGibbon.
‘Blue Lights’ Is Much More Than a Classic Procedural
While the premise of Blue Lights alone might suggest a straightforward procedural, the series is anything but. While the individual cases still matter, the series earns its charm by focusing on the rookie officers and the way in which the job and its in-built danger and stress can affect and shape them each day. Therefore, while initially built like a procedural, the series itself feels more like prestige TV, building itself around complicated character arcs, real consequences, and moral pressure instead of case-of-the-week comfort. That’s especially the case with the inexperienced cops who, just like the viewer, are learning in real-time how dangerous and morally messy the job is. To do so, the series takes viewers into the high-paced life of an officer, delivering a pressure-cooker appeal like The Pitt or The Bear but, this time around, focusing on police officers.
Since its release, Blue Lights has been adored by fans and critics alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series has only gone up in critical ratings, reaching an impressive 91% in Season 1 and soaring to a flawless 100% in Season 3. In a review from The Guardian, the British outlet highlighted the series’ ambitious and unflinching view of the police force, all while delivering compelling, morally complex female characters. “Female characters steal the show, lending it depth and emotional potency – an impressive feat from an all-male writing team,” the review states. Overall, the outlet confidently named the series “one of the best shows on TV.”
Therefore, while Blue Lights has yet to receive worldwide attention, the series is proving to be a major force to be reckoned with. Delivering an unrelenting view of officers on duty, especially given turbulent, gritty Belfast as the setting, the series builds a tense, emotionally grounded portrait of what it costs to serve a community where every call carries history. The series is a resounding hidden gem, and an already-renewed fourth season makes it the perfect show to binge.
Travis Kelce‘s wedding to Taylor Swift has finally come and gone, but drama seems to be brewing over the NFL star’s guest list.
The Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end is said to be at the center of a heated debate in group chats for his teammates over his thought process when it came to who he chose to invite to his nuptials.
This comes after it was revealed that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have no plans to turn their wedding footage into a film or documentary, with a source noting that the couple wants to keep it “private.”
Some of Kelce’s teammates and football colleagues are said to be upset over not getting invited to his intimate dinner event on Thursday, with some being shut out from the entire wedding with a complete snub.
On Monday, after the nuptials, ex-NFL players Taylor Lewan and Will Compton expressed their dissatisfaction at the lack of an invite, with Lewan wondering if it was a “personal shot” fired by Kelce, and Compton admitting it left him “flabbergasted.”
Addressing the brewing drama, an anonymous Chiefs player told the Daily Mail that it has sparked heated locker room discourse, especially the decision to exclude kicker Harrison Butker, which has led to tense exchanges in team group chats.
Butker’s controversial history has long put him at odds with Kelce and his wife, Swift. During a 2024 commencement address, the devout Catholic kicker drew intense criticism for calling Pride Month a “deadly sin” and suggesting women should focus on being homemakers rather than pursuing careers.
Kelce, at the time, publicly disagreed with his teammate’s stance, and Swift supports the Democratic Party and has publicly opposed President Donald Trump.
Chiefs Upcoming Training Camp Is Expected To Be Awkward As There’s ‘A Lot Of Gossip Going On’ About The Wedding Snub
Regarding Butker’s absence, the insider from the team acknowledged that Swift and Kelce ultimately decide who attends their special day, making the omission of the kicker understandable.
However, the move has seemingly divided the team, sparking a flurry of text messages from teammates who view it as a deliberate slight.
“The general idea was that there was a blanket invite for the team, but [every other player] received something individually,” the insider said, adding that “if Harrison had really wanted to come, he probably could have. But they’re not close, so… he wasn’t going to go, even if he had been invited.”
The source continued, “There’s now a lot of gossip going on. Training camp [for the new NFL season] starts in three weeks, and it’s going to be a whole thing. A lot of guys want it to be drama [between Butker and Kelce]. They just like that sh-t… a couple of the guys are being messy and texting Harrison to see what he thinks. We’re like a high school team sometimes.”
‘A Lot Of People’ In The Team ‘RSVP’d No,’ Chiefs Source Claims
Another anonymous Chiefs player shared with the Daily Mail that there are a lot of Team group chats, and that players were careful not to send messages about Kelce’s wedding to groups he is a part of.
“I have chains that have Travis on them, and chains that don’t,” the alleged player said. “You always have to check to make sure you’re sending to the right chain. There have been times where you’ll talk sh-t about someone and then realize they are in the group, and have to laugh it off.”
He continued, “I think most of the texts about the wedding are probably being sent in the groups without Travis. I have one that has about eight of us, and before the wedding, it was like, ‘Who’s going?’ And everyone was saying where they were staying, or why they weren’t going.”
The source further noted that “probably less” than half of the team attended Kelce’s wedding, as a “lot of people RSVP’d no, not because of anything bad, but because of a conflict.”
According to the Chiefs player, he personally chose not to attend the wedding as he didn’t want to spend July 4th in New York and couldn’t bring his children along for the trip.
Travis Kelce’s Teammates Are Not Taking The Wedding Invite Drama Seriously, Source Claims: ‘It’s Nothing Disrespectful’
Speaking again about the Butker snub, the first Chiefs player who spoke with the Daily Mail admitted that people on group chats were stunned by the move, with someone writing, “WTF?!,” after a news story was shared about the kicker not being invited.
The source, however, stressed that it’s mostly locker room banter, and no one is genuinely mad at Kelce about his wedding guest list.
“I don’t think anyone on the team wishes [Kelce] anything but good things,” the Chiefs players noted. “Everyone likes him. He’s a good teammate and a good friend. There’s locker room sh-t, but it’s nothing disrespectful.”
Despite the awkward invite drama, several of Kelce and Swift’s guests have spoken out, praising the duo’s wedding and wishing the couple nothing but love.
Grammy-winning producer Smittybeatz told Page Six of the event: “All I can say is that it was a beautiful ceremony and a beautiful wedding for a beautiful couple. I’m extremely happy for the both of them.”
“They turned the Garden into a garden of love and wonderment. It was timeless. Again, very happy for them both. They are soulmates for sure,” he added.
Jermski, a childhood friend of Kelce’s and former college football teammate, expressed similar sentiment, saying, “It was the most beautiful event I’ve ever been to in my life.”
Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Have Their Sights Set On Somewhere With ‘So Much History’ For Their Honeymoon
Meanwhile, with their nuptials over, Kelce and Swift are reportedly looking to enjoy some private time alone, and may already be eyeing a place with a lot of history.
A Star Magazine source shared that the couple wants to get far away, to somewhere they can lay low without any disturbance from the public, or even family and friends.
“They just don’t want anything getting leaked,” the source said. “They want to be able to enjoy this special time with total privacy.”
According to the insider, there are already “whispers” that Swift and Kelce will kick off their Honeymoon at San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito, an “ultra-private” luxury resort, with “so much history.”
John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy reportedly honeymooned at the resort back in 1953, and if Swift and Kelce end up choosing to stay there, the source noted that they can “rent out the entire property,” which can cost around “$500K for a week.”
Editor’s note: The below contains spoilers for House of the Dragon Season 3, Episode 3.For two seasons, House of the Dragon has positioned Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) and Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) as the series’ main romantic dynamic. Within the taboo context of their House, they’re made for each other: cut from the same elemental cloth, and just contradictory enough to be complementary. Yet twin flames destined to burn together can either fuse into a strengthened inferno or overpower and extinguish their closest ally. After hungrily circling each other during Season 1’s first half, when Rhaenyra (Milly Alcock) was young, D’Arcy and Smith’s intense chemistry suggests their characters enjoyed a happy marriage offscreen after getting married.
However, the combined pressures of war, traumatic grief, and unresolved animosities swiftly fracture that harmony, until Daemon and Rhaenyra spend Season 2 separated by an emotional chasm as vast as their physical distance. Now, in Season 3, House of the Dragon gives us the payoff the Black Queen and her King Consort deserve as two halves of a unified whole.
Daemon’s Actions Back Up His Vow in ‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3
Rhaenyra grapples with her lingering insecurities throughout Season 2, but it’s Daemon who must be forced into a corner and psychologically shattered before he can reconcile with the vicious consequences of his impulsivity, let alone his major Achilles’ heel — how deeply he both resents his family’s judgment and craves their respect. Armed with stakes far bigger than a wounded ego or a guilty conscience, Season 3’s opening three episodes see Daemon putting his vow to serve Rhaenyra into practice.
No longer does he undermine her claim by accident or intent. With unquestionable commitment and absolute focus, he wholly supports Rhaenyra as her right hand, her loyal defender, and her obedient subject. He provides her with everything she requires — a sworn-sword, a brief laugh, a warm embrace when grief keeps her from sleeping in her father’s bedchambers — for no desire of his own, save ensuring her birthright. Daemon willingly walks in the length of her shadow, spurs her from staggering grief into decisive action, and is amply prepared to protect her until his death. And while an unconventional diplomat at best, he comprehends the political optics and hands over Otto Hightower’s (Rhys Ifans) execution — a kill the earlier Daemon would’ve seized with relish. In a rigged misogynistic game that no powerful woman can easily (if ever) win, Daemon becomes his wife’s Queenmaker.
Now, they’ll certainly continue to disagree on tactics. Their debate in Episode 3, with Rhaenyra advocating for securing King’s Landing while Daemon’s underlying predisposition for Targaryen supremacy gives him conquest eyeballs bigger than their dragons’ stomachs, proves as much. Nevertheless, they literally and figuratively move as a synchronized unit. They confer and confide, rely on and admire, make fair concessions and stand their ground with ferocious conviction. Daemon provides a stabilizing anchor and a warrior’s ruthless, countering perspective to Rhaenyra’s kinder ideals. The latter can’t survive in Westeros, no matter how much Rhaenyra resists the assertion that ruling means rescinding some of her fundamental values.
Rhaenyra and Daemon Are Their Most Unified in ‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3
Of course, it’s unlikely the reunited Targaryen power couple and their ascension into their healthiest, strongest, and most towering moment in the sun will last for long. Even if they avoid collapsing into direct conflict, House of the Dragon remains an inevitable tragedy. Too many forces conspire against them: Rhaenyra’s cumulative anguish, Ormund Hightower’s (James Norton) deception, tossing accelerant onto her volcanic wrath, the truth about Rhaena (Phoebe Campbell) and Sheepstealer awaiting Daemon in the Vale. If Rhaenyra develops a degree of paranoia, justified or not, then Daemon may realize that protecting his daughter runs counter to carrying out his queen’s cries for vengeance. For now, at least, they’re aligned and blazing — stronger partners than ever before.
House of the Dragon
- Release Date
-
August 21, 2022
- Network
-
HBO
- Showrunner
-
George R.R. Martin
- Directors
-
Clare Kilner, Geeta Patel
-
-
Fabien Frankel
Ser Criston Cole
Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
Olivia Wilde’s street style has always been unparalleled, and it’s evolved with her through every era of her life. No matter what trend she’s embodying, though — whether it be boho, quiet luxury or casual model-off-duty vibes — she always seems to be sporting one specific pair of penny loafers.
Most recently, Wilde was spotted running errands in New York wearing the comfortable and stylish Reformation Ani Ruched Penny Loafers. The shoes complemented her oversized white trousers and plain black tee — and the overall look is extremely replicable, especially since the exact shoes are available at Nordstrom.
Get the Reformation Ani Ruched Penny Loafers for $278 at Nordstrom! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Penny loafers first became popular in the 1950s for their casual yet polished appearance, and they’ve remained a classic wardrobe staple ever since. Beyond their timelessness, the right pair can last you literal decades. This style from Reformation certainly has potential, and they’re totally worth the splurge.
Jeans will always have their place, but Olivia Wilde just reminded Us there’s a much cooler option for summer. Her latest street style look proves that relaxed white pants can feel just as versatile while keeping you far more comfortable on hot, sticky days. Equal parts effortless and elevated, they’re the kind of staple you’ll […]
The leather construction is as classic as it gets, while the addition of ruched front seaming modernizes the overall shoe. That detail, paired with the soft, supple leather exterior, makes this a no-brainer add to your closet. But it takes more than looks for a shoe to become something you continuously wear. Luckily, shoppers say these are incredibly comfortable too.
“I have been looking for some classic loafers and tried them all, but they’re always stiff and require too much breaking in for my taste,” one Nordstrom shopper writes. “These were perfect right out of the box, and I’ve since worn them nonstop.” Loafers are notoriously difficult to break in, so these seem to be a total unicorn in the footwear world.
The Reformation Ani Ruched Penny Loafers have everything going for them — the effortless, lasting style; soft broken-in leather; ready-to-wear comfort; modern flair. It’s no wonder they’re Wilde’s favorite. They could be yours too. Shop at Nordstrom today!
Get the Reformation Ani Ruched Penny Loafers for $278 at Nordstrom! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more from Reformation here and more penny loafers here!
UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
Olivia Wilde just made a strong case for skipping heels altogether. While oversized suiting is often paired with pumps or strappy sandals, the actress recently took a more practical route, styling her relaxed black suit with sporty retro sneakers instead. The best part? You can recreate the look with this $27 version on Amazon. On […]
TikTok lifestyle influencer Gabriela de los Ángeles Sanarrusia Chavarría has reportedly died.
According to Argentina-based news outlet La Nación, who cited Costa Rican authorities, Chavarría was shot dead on Saturday, July 4, while sleeping beside her boyfriend inside their La Cruz, Costa Rica, home. She was 28 years old.
The outlet reported that the boyfriend of the social media star, who amassed more than 100,000 fans across Instagram and TikTok, was also killed, with multiple intruders allegedly breaking into the couple’s home before firing bullets at both Chavarría and Jose Isaac Agüero, 30.
Per a report by People, published on Monday, July 6, local authorities told La Nación that “after the killing, suspects fled the home and allegedly burned a white vehicle.” The shootings were believed to be “motivated by retribution,” with local police stating that they are currently “continuing to investigate to determine an official motive,” per People’s coverage.
Brazilian influencer Francisca Roberta has reportedly died. She was 21. Brazilian outlets G1 and CNN Brasil reported on Monday, May 18, that Roberta was shot outside her home by two suspects on a motorcycle earlier this month. The two suspects fled after the incident, according to a police statement. G1 stated that one of the […]
La Nación also noted that an “ex-partner” of Chavarría’s was tragically “murdered two years earlier” within the suburb.
Chavarría was best known for sharing content captured during her travels and would also post about her daughter, 9. The influencer’s final TikTok captured her cuddling up to her child while the youngster spoke to the camera. “When did you grow up so much, my baby,” Chavarría captioned the clip.
Her daughter was also featured in Chavarría’s final Instagram post, as was Agüero. The trio had posed for a professional photo shoot against a decadent floral backdrop with both mother and daughter wearing shimmering tiaras.
One final image in the Instagram carousel, posted on June 29, showed the influencer dressed in lingerie while seated on a throne as her boyfriend held one of her bare legs and gazed into her eyes.
Colombian influencer María José Estupiñán has reportedly died after being shot. She was 22. President of the National Gender Commission of the Colombian Judiciary, Magda Victoria Acosta, claimed Estupiñán was killed on Thursday, May 15, per CNN. The outlet reported that Acosta claimed the suspect who appeared at Estupiñán’s residence was dressed as a delivery man. […]
Chavarría’s death comes amid a second shock influencer shooting in recent days. NBC Miami reported on Tuesday, July 7, that South Florida-based TikToker Brianna Johnson, better known as “ItGirlBri” died during a drive-by shooting in Miramar, Florida two days prior.
The social media personality had been “leaving an Airbnb party” in a “lime green Lamborghini” that was reportedly shot at by a white BMW. The outlet reported that the 21-year-old was taken to hospital by fire rescue crews but “did not survive,” while two other victims in the shooting remained in the hospital.
Johnson, who was also known as “dreamdoll_bri” on Instagram, boasted more than 380,000 TikTok followers. She rose to fame thanks to her engaging lifestyle content.
Zoe Kazan has seemingly speculated over why Blake Lively did not receive an invitation to former pal Taylor Swift’s wedding.
“I think she [Swift] didn’t invite *her* [Lively] because she has come to the end of her marriage plot, thus cutting off access to her first great subject,” the Big Sick star, 42, wrote via X on Tuesday, July 7. “Rather than root for her own divorce, she is generating the next chapter of interpersonal drama for herself via female friendship.”
Us Weekly confirmed via multiple sources in the lead-up to Swift’s Friday, July 3, Madison Square Garden wedding to Travis Kelce, that Lively, 38, did not receive an invitation to the New York City nuptials.
Kazan’s post attracted backlash from disagreeing fans of Swift, 36, leading to the actress defending her stance in a subsequent X post shared three hours after the original. “Hilarious to me that this is being read as critical! She’s explicitly made her love life the subject of her work, yielding many good songs. Now, as a storyteller, she needs a new subject,” Kazan wrote.
She then concluded, “What a touchy fandom.”
Kazan’s theory made further waves on Reddit with one fan questioning her motive. “Do they have beef? Because this is a stone cold take down,” wrote one Swifty, while another amused social media user commented, “Zoe Kazan being involved in this was unexpected but it’s interesting lol.”
Zoe Kazan Michael Loccisano/Getty Images
An insider told Us on June 23 that Lively, whose close bond with Swift dissipated after the Gossip Girl alum’s legal battle with her It Ends With Us director and costar Justin Baldoni, “understands” why she wouldn’t have received an invitation to Swift’s wedding.
“It would be a media frenzy,” the source told Us at the time. “She also understands that she and Taylor don’t have the same level of friendship they once had. She isn’t upset about not being invited, but of course, she would love to be there to support her and Travis.”
Blake Lively‘s lawyer is shedding insight on her mindset as her personal texts with Taylor Swift become public. When asked whether Lively, 38, is “upset” about friends like Swift, 36, being “drawn into” her legal drama with Justin Baldoni, lawyer Sigrid McCawley said that she has “done everything she can to protect her friends from […]
As to where the former friends currently stand, the insider said, “They haven’t been in touch in several months, and their last correspondence was only a few casual texts back and forth. That is the extent of their friendship.”
Swift and Lively severed close ties after the pop star’s name was dragged into Lively’s contentious battle with Baldoni, 42. Lively and Baldoni reached a settlement in May after an 18-month legal saga that began in December 2024 when Lively filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against Baldoni.
As part of Lively’s ongoing case, personal texts sent between Swift and Lively were made public, which allegedly made Swift feel “exposed and kind of violated,” according to a source who spoke to Us in January.
There was a void of deranged female protagonists portrayed in all their messy glory. Gillian Flynn was ready to answer the call, writing three immaculate books in this style. It has been some time since Flynn released a book, but that doesn’t diminish the perfection with which her written works are remembered.
Each book artfully harnesses themes such as misogyny, self-harm, and abuse in unique stories unlike any other psychological thrillers on the scene. Female characters are rarely written with such specificity and ruthlessness as they are in Flynn’s best-selling novels. All her books are a credit to her as an artist, making ranking them a difficult endeavor, indeed.
Sharp Objects Was an Impressive Start to Gillian Flynn’s Career
Gillian Flynn’s first book was a harrowing debut, and one that should not be taken lightly. The shortest of her novels, Sharp Objects, is an excruciating exploration of parental trauma that bleeds off the page. Flynn’s first protagonist is Camille Preaker, a Chicago journalist who must return home to Wind Gap, Missouri, to cover the slew of child murders. The writer’s prose is as prickly and unsettling as Camille, whose childhood trauma is so severe that she resorts to self-harm.
Sharp Objects isn’t the typical Gothic thriller that lives and dies by its plot turns. Though there are many twists, the most interesting part of the book is the deep-seated wounds the characters carry that push them into the final climactic resolution. This book started the Flynn tradition of a completely unpredictable ending and was a surprising first entry into a world of psychological terror.
Dark Places Increased the Stakes Tenfold
Dark Places is perhaps the least known of Gillian Flynn’s works, likely because of the lackluster screen adaptation. Luckily, Dark Places is getting adapted for the screen again, a relief considering it is a highly ambitious work that sticks the landing. The mystery is a multi-perspective thriller that follows a woman who, in her youth, was the sole survivor of the massacre of her family. Libby is another of Flynn’s complicated protagonists who takes readers on a disturbing deep dive into the case that ruined her life and her family.
Closed off because of her trauma, Libby is convinced that her brother, Ben, killed her family in a Satanic ritual. Dark Places escalates the stakes of Sharp Objects while also delivering compelling twists that fans would have to read to believe. A commentary on the Satanic Panic of the ’80s and capitalism as a whole, Flynn’s book takes on the ills of America in a genuinely heartbreaking fashion.
Gone Girl Is Gillian Flynn’s Magnum Opus
Gillian Flynn’s books just get better and better, and Gone Girl is the crowning achievement of her work. While the David Fincher adaptation gave the subject a certain caché, the book is even better — as hard as it is to believe. The Flynn-penned film hit all the significant points of the novel, most importantly, the criticism of misogyny in relationships. Amy Elliott-Dunne’s (Rosamund Pike) “Cool Girl” speech will go down in history as one of the best character-defining monologues in recent history.
This is present in the source material, but the book goes even harder in many respects. Amy’s character is far more complex, as is her hapless husband, Nick, who is just as reprehensible as she is. The book clarifies Nick’s misogyny, which makes him an equal participant in what happens to him. The ending is much more satisfying and is all wrapped up in an unreliable narrative that is a joy to read. Gone Girl is the undisputed crown jewel of Flynn’s work.
When playing a video game, there will always be some area, section, or general flaw in the title that just restricts it from becoming perfect. Such as the turret-shooting asteroid segment in Dead Space that took players out of the loop, or the infamous water temple in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time that was needlessly frustrating, or pretty much any tutorial for most Pokémon video games.
However, some video games don’t have these issues, instead delivering a full experience with no downs, only ups. This list will feature ten fantasy video games that are perfect from start to finish based on gameplay, narrative, design, pacing, consistency, originality, fan opinion, critical acclaim, and overall quality. Perfection is, of course, subjective, but these few precious games might actually achieve it.
‘Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door’ (2004)
Fantasy comes in all shapes and sizes, but fans probably weren’t expecting anything from Mario on this list. Yet, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door is technically a fantasy video game. Mario travels to a port town in order to help Princess Peach open the titular door. However, once he arrives, he discovers that the princess has been kidnapped by an alien race known as the X-nauts.
Taking Mario outside his comfort zone in terms of setting and gameplay created a compelling RPG that is acclaimed for its sharp writing. The town is a unique setting and full of endearing characters with whom the player can interact. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door also uses a distinct stage play style, further making it a charming and witty gaming experience that more fans should try out.
‘Dragon Age: Inquisition’ (2014)
It’s unfortunate that the Dragon Age franchise didn’t land on its feet, but fans at least have a couple of amazing video games, including the first Game of the Year winner at the Game Awards, Dragon Age: Inquisition. As demons pour out of the magical tears across the continent of Thedas, the protagonist, labeled the Herald of Andraste, is tasked with rebuilding an ancient political and military force to stop the crisis.
There are many fantastic Dragon Age video games, but this one in particular has an incredible pace that makes it perfect from start to finish. The political storytelling is spectacular, building a complex and fascinating narrative that boosts the gameplay. Indeed, the action is solid, but the political machinations and nuances might be the best aspect here. The lore, worldbuilding, companion writing, and tension are maintained throughout, proving the game’s excellence.
‘Final Fantasy VI’ (1994)
The Final Fantasy franchise is home to some of the most beloved video games of all time, and while there are others that are more acclaimed than Final Fantasy VI, it is the most perfect. Players and their group of adventurers set out on an adventure to stop the evil empire of Gestahlian and its unhinged general, Kafka, from draining the planet of its life source.
As the last Final Fantasy game in 2D before it shifted to 3D, this game perfected the top-down formula in terms of art and gameplay. The massive ensemble cast adds personal stories that slowly weave together through trauma and tragedy, featuring some of the franchise’s most popular figures, like Terra Branford. The first half was good, but the mid-game twist turns Final Fantasy VI on its head, altering the gameplay and narrative flawlessly.
‘Elden Ring’ (2022)
FromSoftware is a prolific video game studio, and its magnum opus, Elden Ring, is also its most perfect title. After the titular object shatters, the children of Queen Marika claim the pieces. Players awaken as the Tarnished One, who must travel through the Lands Between and defeat the demigod children in order to retrieve the pieces, reform the ring, and become the Elden Lord.
Elden Ring does have some flaws, including its narrative, which many fans said was convoluted. However, this title is the best dark fantasy video game for good reason. The combat may be challenging, but ultimately rewarding when players finally defeat the boss they were stuck on. The collective lore and worldbuilding that fans learn through exploration is a satisfying experience that highlights Elden Ring‘s flawlessness.
‘Journey’ (2012)
The indie genre offers some of the greatest, most ambitious, and personal stories and experiences in gaming history, and one such title is Journey. The player controls an anonymous and mysterious traveller in an expansive desert. On a pilgrimage to its central and grand mountain, the player will encounter many mysteries, wonders, and unexpected events.
As a walking simulator-type game, Journey may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who enjoy it, they may just find their new favorite game. The stakes may be low at the beginning, but the methodical pace enhances the sense of beauty and relaxation. However, the tone shifts into a dark underground world, and the ancient dangers evoke a sense of dread. By the end, Journey has a euphoric final climb up the mountain that concludes its two-hour, short but sweet experience with different vibes at each step.
‘Hollow Knight’ (2017)
Yet another flawless indie game that makes this list is a cult classic that recently received its long-awaited sequel, Hollow Knight. A small bug goes on a big mission in the infected kingdom of Hallownest, needing to uncover its dark mystery and defeat whatever is infecting the kingdom.
While its sequel has higher highs, it also has lower lows. Hollow Knight, on the other hand, is a flawlessly paced and consistent masterpiece that keeps delivering. Players slowly unlock mechanics, new traversal methods, and forms of combat, making exploration even more compelling. As new areas unlock, gamers can get lost in this melancholic world and all of its perfection. It’s the best kind of experience that, while not exactly open-world, can still allow players autonomy. Hollow Knight is one of the best indie games ever, and the proof is in the pudding.
‘Chrono Trigger’ (1995)
The 3D format opens itself up to many flaws and mistakes, which is why many 2D video games are perfect, including Chrono Trigger. When a group of adventurers accidentally discover time travel at a fair, they see a future of death and destruction. Now, those same heroes must travel through the past, present, and future to stop this nightmare from becoming reality.
Chrono Trigger is the pinnacle of 16-bit gaming, not only being a technological masterpiece, but also boasting fun gameplay and profound storytelling. This game has phenomenal pacing, having engaging sections in the past, present, and future that all affect each other. Every choice alters the future in Chrono Trigger, which makes every step a perfect gaming experience, whether it is at the beginning or end.
‘Hades’ (2020)
The last, but best indie video game on this list is Hades, whose sequel was good, but doesn’t hold up compared to the original. Zagreus is the rebellious prince of the underworld, wanting to escape Hell and his father, Hades. Thinking his mother is trapped on Olympus, he spends countless times attempting to escape the underworld.
As a rogue-like, the gameplay can get repetitive, but its novel approach to death pretty much revolutionized the formula, making this experience great from start to finish. The rogue-like elements are enhanced through the unlockable weapons and narrative, creating a relevant and engaging story. The more players die, the further the story progresses, which is seen through the character interactions and hub world, proving Hades is a remarkable indie game.
‘The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past’ (1991)
The Legend of Zelda franchise has some incredible video games, but their most perfect is arguably The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. It follows the typical plot, with Link needing to rescue Princess Zelda and the descendants of the sages after Ganondorf kidnaps them by traversing through the normal world and a mirrored dimension.
While The Legend of Zelda is mostly a 3D franchise, they have some fantastic 2D games, including The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. The dual-world mechanic adds incredible opportunities for puzzle design, and these aspects combine to create a well-paced experience. A Link to the Past slowly expands the player’s toolkit, and through dungeons, gameplay, and bosses, fans find more to love.
‘God of War’ (2018)
2018 was one of the best years of gaming in a long time, but its greatest masterpiece, which was perfect from start to finish, was God of War. Putting aside his trauma and rage from Greece, Kratos now lives in a Norse region. However, after his wife dies, he respects her wishes, travelling across the region with his son, Atreus, to scatter her ashes at the top of the highest peak, but the gods want his son for strange reasons.
As soon as the game begins and players get into the tutorial, God of War hooks gamers immediately with one of the best introductions in gaming history, ending in a phenomenal boss battle that sets the pace. With one of the most gorgeous, personal, and profound stories as well as its masterful narrative design, God of War is a fantasy masterpiece. Not to mention, this game features cathartic gameplay and a satisfying sense of progression, which mixes nicely with its renowned combat, proving it is perfect from start to finish. God of War reinvents Kratos, one of the best video game characters, to deliver one of the best experiences of the century.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce‘s wedding celebration has continued to generate headlines as new details emerge about the star-studded event.
Reports suggest guests were treated to an elaborate reception featuring extensive food stations, extravagant desserts, and emotional moments throughout the ceremony.
However, a guest at the wedding has described the reception as “a bit of a sh-t show,” claiming there was hardly anywhere to sit, with guests standing in long buffet lines to get food.
Despite the star-studded atmosphere surrounding Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding celebration, reports suggest the reception had a few logistical hiccups.
According to attendees, the event did not feature a traditional seated dinner. Instead, guests reportedly moved between a variety of buffet stations offering a wide selection of dishes before finding available places to eat.
Some attendees allegedly faced long lines, while others were left searching for seats due to the large number of guests in attendance.
One source, describing the dining setup as somewhat chaotic, said it was “a bit of a sh-t show,” claiming the venue became crowded as guests attempted to navigate the food stations and limited seating arrangements.
Even so, insiders say the menu itself impressed attendees. Guests were reportedly treated to an extensive selection of cuisine, including sushi, pasta, salads, chicken, filet mignon, and a range of American, Italian, and Asian-inspired dishes.
Staff members were stationed throughout the reception to serve food directly to guests, per TMZ.
Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Exchanged Emotional Handwritten Vows
The dessert offerings were said to be equally extravagant. Reports claim a large dessert display featured dozens of cakes, each decorated with custom 3D toppers inspired by the newlyweds, alongside a variety of additional sweet treats.
The reception followed an emotional ceremony in which Swift and Kelce are said to have exchanged handwritten vows. Sources who spoke with People Magazine claim the couple spent roughly 20 minutes each reading their personal messages, creating one of the most heartfelt moments of the day. Swift reportedly included a musical touch in her vows, while Kelce was said to have become visibly emotional during the exchange.
To help guests through the tearful moments, the couple allegedly provided custom embroidered handkerchiefs. The keepsakes reportedly featured an interlocking “TT” heart logo along with the lyric, “So it’s gonna be forever…” from Swift’s 2014 hit “Blank Space,” a track said to be among Kelce’s favorites.
The ceremony was officiated by actor and comedian Adam Sandler, who is said to have blended heartfelt remarks with humor and even performed an original song dedicated to the couple as they began their married life together.
The Singer Looked Stunning In Custom Dior Gown
For the ceremony, Swift embraced a classic bridal look in a custom white gown, while Kelce coordinated in a white tuxedo of his own.
Both outfits were created by Christian Dior Haute Couture under the direction of creative director Jonathan Anderson, who reportedly worked closely with the couple throughout the design process.
Swift is said to have later changed into a second outfit for the reception and completed her bridal ensemble with custom Christian Louboutin heels and jewelry from Cartier.
Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce’s Siblings Took On Major Roles During Their Marriage
Guests described the singer as radiant throughout her wedding celebration, with one attendee claiming she appeared to be “glowing and floating around the room.”
Rather than opting for a traditional wedding party, the pair chose to give special roles to family members.
Taylor’s brother, Austin Swift, served as her Man of Honor, while Travis’ brother, Jason Kelce, stood beside him as Best Man.
After the couple was officially pronounced husband and wife, giant screens outside the venue reportedly lit up with a celebratory message for fans gathered nearby, announcing their marriage with the words: “JUST&T MARRIED!”
Madison Square Garden Dramatic Makeover As Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce Mark Wedding Week
In the days leading up to the wedding, reports suggested that Madison Square Garden underwent an extensive transformation to prepare for the celebration. Witnesses reportedly spotted crews working around the venue, unloading equipment, decorative elements, and even sections of grass as preparations intensified.
According to reports, boxes bearing labels such as “Garden Party” and “Mirror Ball” were seen outside the arena, fueling speculation about the scale and theme of the event. One source claimed the iconic venue looked completely different from its usual appearance, describing the makeover as unlike anything they had previously seen at the arena.
The festivities also coincided with a significant charitable effort by the couple. A representative for Swift reportedly revealed that she and Kelce donated approximately $26 million to several organizations during the week of their wedding. Among the beneficiaries were Feeding America, ASPCA and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, with the contributions reportedly supporting initiatives focused on hunger relief, animal welfare and childhood literacy.
Fans have known Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson for one unmistakable look: a shaved head. Hence, when the actor donned a long, curly wig to transform into Maui for the live-action “Moana” movie, the internet wasted no time turning his new look into memes. Rather than taking offense, The Rock admitted he found the jokes hilarious and laughed along with fans.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is once again stepping into the role of the demigod Maui for the live-action adaptation of “Moana.” The former wrestler previously voiced the larger-than-life character in 2016’s animated film of the same title, helping turn Maui into one of Disney’s most memorable figures. Nearly a decade later, he is bringing the character to life.
While The Rock’s physique closely matches Maui’s, the character’s long, flowing hair is a stark contrast to the actor’s signature shaved head. The film’s trailer, which dropped in March, gave birth to many memes mocking The Rock’s curly wig.
Despite the backlash, The Rock found the comments hilarious, as he said during an interview at the premiere of “Moana.”
“I laughed so f-cking hard when we first came out, and people saw me in a wig for the first time. They memed me. The internet did the internet. It was very, very funny, but I was like, ‘Okay, it’s all right, just see the movie,’” he told a reporter from Variety.
Fans had mixed reactions upon seeing Johnson with hair, with many commenting that the hair clearly looked like a wig and that, given the big budget, the production could have done a better job. Some compared The Rock’s Maui look to John Cena’s character Kenmaid in “Barbie,” asking users which former wrestler wore their wig better.
“He’s been bald for so long at this point, that it’s like seeing Squidward with hair,” one commented. “Maui genuinely looks like an SNL skit,” another added.
Parody singer Weird Al Yankovic, who has long, curly locks himself, weighed in on the online buzz and posted a photo of Johnson as Maui on Instagram, jokingly writing, “We’ve told all the casting agents that the Weird Al biopic sequel is currently on hold, but they just keep sending in headshots.”
The Rock Has Played A Few Characters With Hair
Admittedly, The Rock said it was “jarring” for his kids to see him portray Maui due to his hair. The actor said they were so used to him being bald that it was a big transformation to see him have long, curly tresses, he told E! News.
While many fans are used to seeing The Rock sans hair, he previously appeared on the silver screen with different hairstyles.
In the “The Mummy” spinoff “The Scorpion King,” released in 2002, The Rock played Mathayus and had a long, dark mane. In the 2014 action fantasy film “Hercules,” he played the titular character and sported wavy, shoulder-length hair. The Rock portrayed UFC fighter Mark Kerr in the 2025 biopic “The Smashing Machine,” in which he had closely cropped hair.
The Actor Has A Haircare Line
Johnson launched his men’s grooming line, Papatui, in 2024, to break the stereotype against “tough guys” and encourage men to openly talk about personal care. Some of his products include facial wash, moisturizers, deodorants, soaps, and hair care.
In early June, TikToker Katy Napier called out Johnson for selling hair care products when he doesn’t have hair. “Don’t give up on your dreams. The Rock is selling shampoo and conditioner, and he’s bald,” she said. The video went viral, and the actor was one of the people who saw it.
The Rock stitched Napier’s video with his own clip, smiling at the camera while wearing his Maui costume and wig. “Ok this made me belly laugh… HARD. And hey, sometimes a Demigod’s radiant and ravishing hair needs shampoo/conditioner. You’re Welcooooome,” he wrote in the caption, adding that he had a “big a-s gift” he’s sending Napier.
The Rock Attended The ‘Moana’ Premiere With His Family
Johnson brought his family to the July 7 premiere of “Moana” in Los Angeles and posed for photos on the blue carpet.
He was joined by his mother, Ata; his wife, Lauren Hashian; their two daughters, Jasmine and Tiana; his ex-wife, Dany Garcia, and her husband, Dave Rienzi; and his daughter with Dany, Simone.
In an interview, The Rock shared how special the live-action film was to him. “Everything carries a different weight. Real flesh and blood, human beings, soul behind the eyes, like, and then bits as real as us sitting here. It was the opportunity for us to, I think, showcase our culture in a real way,” he said.
“Moana” will be released in theaters on July 10.
NewsBeat55 seconds ago
How to retrofit a house to cope with rising temperatures in a heatwave
Business2 minutes ago
Proteomics granted US patent for PromarkerEndo
Crypto World3 minutes ago
Stock Market Today: Dow Sells Off As Trump Declares Ceasefire ‘Over’
Business3 weeks ago
No Jackpot Winner as $257 Million Prize Rolls Over to $269 Million Monday Draw
Entertainment3 weeks ago
Renter of Home in Anne Heche Crash Denies Settlement With Son
Fashion2 weeks ago
Weekend Open Thread: Staud – Corporette.com
News Videos7 minutes ago
Grandma is jealous. Compare financial resources with daughter-in-law#Funny videos of mothe
News Videos22 minutes ago
Crypto Gold Live Trading 8 JULY | Market Trader | #goldtrading #cryptotrading #bitcoin
News Videos29 minutes ago
Commissioner Khumalo called for closer scrutiny of SAPS’ financial disclosure system….
-
Fashion5 days agoWeekend Open Thread: High Hopes
-
NewsBeat3 days agoTaylor Swift and Travis Kelce wedding staffer hilariously struggles to keep her cool while checking in megastars
-
Crypto World7 days agoAirdrop Registration Becomes Key Focus For Remittix As RTX Launch Updates Approach
-
Fashion2 days agoOpen Thread: What Great Books Have You Read Recently?
-
Politics5 days agoThe House | “Reframing the debate from a binary discussion of winners and losers”: Yuan Yang reviews ‘We Are Not Machines’
-
Crypto World5 days agoStandard Chartered Secures MiCA License as ESMA Adds 37 New Crypto Firms
-
Sports7 days agoBroncos roster: OL Ben Powers (No. 74) entering final year of contract
-
Business2 days agoAXT Shares Jump Nearly 14% as Semiconductor Materials Maker Rebounds on AI-Linked Indium Phosphide Demand
-
Crypto World6 days agoBinance stock trading tops $1B in first month after launch
-
Tech1 day agoAnthropic’s new “J-lens” reveals a silent workspace inside Claude that mirrors a leading theory of consciousness
-
News Videos1 day agoWhats Hidden Inside This Cash Register? #treasure #reselling #money
-
Crypto World6 days agoAlibaba-affiliate Ant Group enters the humanoid robot market with 12 deals
-
Crypto World3 days agoSouth Africa proposes crypto tax guidance under existing rules
-
Crypto World2 days ago
SK hynix (000660.KS) Stock Dips as $28B Nasdaq ADR Offering Drives AI Memory Expansion
-
News Videos2 days agoBest Time to Enter Small Caps Right Now? Another Bull Run? | Financially Free
-
Tech3 days agoLenovo laptops are now shipping with YMTC SSDs, a sign of Chinese NAND entering the mainstream
-
Business7 days agoMeta Platforms Stock Jumps 7% Today as Bloomberg Reports Company Plans to Enter the Cloud Business
-
NewsBeat6 days agoNew exhibition reflects five decades of movement between island of Ireland and GB
-
Business5 days agoWhat a 10 Percent Drop Means for Buyers, Sellers and Renters
-
Crypto World6 days agoBinance Re-Enters Philippines As EU MiCA Rules Restrict Access
You must be logged in to post a comment Login