Police procedurals and first responder dramas are typically known for their longevity in the TV space. These shows are among the most enduring genres in network television, with certain shows running for decades while others also expand with spin-offs and sprawling universes for a loyal fanbase. In recent times, the ABC police procedural, The Rookie, has established itself as one of the most beloved shows on television, with the crime drama even scoring major streaming wins as well. The show debuted in 2018, and in the years following, its characters have evolved, as have their relationships with one another, even as they continue to work as a cohesive unit with the LAPD.

Creator and showrunner Alexi Hawley has kept fans invested with several compelling cases and engaging plotlines, which has seen the show into its eighth season. In November 2025, prior to the premiere of The Rookie Season 8 in January 2026, ABC announced its plan to expand the franchise with a spin-off, The Rookie: North. The series will serve as the second spin-off of the franchise, looking to succeed where its predecessor, the short-lived offshoot back in 2022, The Rookie: Feds, which was cancelled after only one season, failed. The Rookie: North turns to Insecure and Top Gun: Maverick star Jay Ellis as its lead, with Ellis set to play prospective rookie cop Alex Holland. Ellis’ Holland will embark on an ambitious adventure to become a law enforcement officer at an older age. However, the actor himself has an even bigger ambition for the upcoming procedural drama.

In 2022, Ellis starred alongside filming royalty, Tom Cruise, in the blockbuster action film, Top Gun: Maverick. As with most things that have the Mission: Impossible star attached to it, Top Gun: Maverick exploded at the box office. Now, Ellis is looking for Cruise to challenge himself in an entirely different space as he encourages his mega co-star to make his way onto network television. “I would love to have Tom come be on The Rookie: North with us,” Ellis said in an interview with Us Magazine. “I’m throwing it out there.” The Insecure star would go on, later in the interview, to issue a direct request to the Mission: Impossible star. “‘Tom, [you should come join], wherever you are,’” Ellis stated. “[Since] he’s probably parachuting somewhere right now or doing a motorcycle jump over a cliff.”

Jay Ellis Has Some Colossal Plans for ‘The Rookie: North’

The Rookie: North will follow a middle-aged man who joins the Pierce County Police Department as its oldest rookie after a traumatic home invasion and was written by Hawley. Karen Fukuhara (The Boys) stars alongside Ellis in a cast that also includes Chris Sullivan, Froy Gutierrez, Janet Montgomery, Mya Lowe, and Malik Watson. Ellis, however, has some ambitious ideas in his mind’s eye, as the All Her Fault star notes that none of his former co-stars would be safe from a call asking them to come on The Rookie: North as a guest star. “I would love to have some of my co-stars come pop in,” Ellis elaborated during the course of the conversation. “It’d be a lot of fun to have some of them come pop in and do an episode or two with us. I will be calling all of them. All of you will get text messages followed up by phone calls, and I will go through your agents as well.”

That could make for a dazzling guest star slate for The Rookie: North given that Ellis’ former co-stars list includes the likes of Glen Powell, Issa Rae, Sara Snook, Kate Hudson, Danny Ramirez, and Lewis Pullman among other illustrious names. Should Ellis somehow pull it off, The Rookie: North will certainly be worth the watch. There is no set release date for The Rookie: North at the moment, but the show is also expected to hit ABC in early 2027.

Stay tuned at Collider for more.

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Release Date

October 16, 2018

Showrunner

Alexi Hawley

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Directors

Tori Garrett, Chi-Yoon Chung, Michael Goi, Sylvain White, Lisa Demaine, Lanre Olabisi, Bill Johnson, David McWhirter, Liz Friedlander, Daniel Willis, Toa Fraser, Anne Renton, Jon Huertas, Cherie Nowlan, TK Shom, Rob Seidenglanz, Valerie Weiss, Barbara Brown, Charissa Sanjarernsuithikul, SJ Main Muñoz, Nelson McCormick, Marcus Stokes, Adam Davidson, Anna Mastro

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Writers

Corey Miller, Bill Rinier, Zoe Cheng, Mary Trahan, Ally Seibert, Liz Alper, Nick Hurwitz, Racheal Seymour, Madeleine Coghlan, David Radcliff

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One of the good things about streaming becoming so easy and widespread is that there always seems to be some place for any movie to end up. The big streamers can fight over new releases, or just make multi-billion dollar deals to buy the competition, but there’s usually somebody who appreciates the classics. We’re specifically referring to classics like The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, which you can watch for free on YouTube.

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Italian director Sergio Leone’s 1966 epic is generally considered one of the greatest films of all time, and definitely one of the best Westerns, and perhaps even the singular definitive spaghetti Western. Though it’s skewed because of modern reviews that take its legacy into account, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’s Rotten Tomatoes score sits at 97% for both critics and audiences — meaning it’s a consensus that the movie is straight-up great. How often does that happen?

What Is ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ About?

Along with Leone’s A Fistful of Dollars and For a Few Dollars More, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly is part of the loosely connected “Dollars Trilogy” (also known as the “Man with No Name Trilogy” after star Clint Eastwood’s ostensibly nameless antihero… though he does technically have a name in all three movies). The movies aren’t really related to each other, beyond the fact that Sergio Leone directed them, they’re in the same genre, and Clint Eastwood is in them as a laconic cowboy who wears a cool hat and a sarape. (Unfortunately, Leone didn’t have the foresight to have his cowboy movies tie together for a big Marvel-style payoff.)

In The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Eastwood’s character is a bounty hunter nicknamed Blondie, and though he’s not necessarily a nice guy, he’s the “Good” in the title. He runs a scam with a bandit named Tuco (the “Ugly,” played by Eli Wallach), where he hands him over to the authorities for a bounty and then saves him from being hanged so they can split the money and do the trick again in another town. They cross paths with a mercenary called Angel Eyes (the “Bad,” played by Lee Van Cleef) who is trying to find a stash of stolen Confederate gold.

Tuco finds out the cemetery where the gold is buried and Blondie finds out the specific grave it’s hidden in, forcing them all to (kinda) work together in an uneasy alliance. It’s a spoiler to say it all builds to a three-way standoff over who gets the gold, but treating that as a real spoiler does a disservice to Leone’s directing, Ennio Morricone’s iconic score, and Eastwood’s steely-eyed glare. And we’re talking about the definitive spaghetti Western here, so it’s not like there wouldn’t be a standoff at some point. It’s like saying the movie has boots and revolvers in it.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly is streaming for free on YouTube, so there’s really no reason not to set aside three hours or so and revel in the ecstasy of gold (that’s the big song from the soundtrack).

Phaedra Parks and Chris “CT” Tamburello were spotted packing on the PDA after making their debut as a couple.

Us obtained exclusive photos of the newly-minted pair cozying up in Fire Island, New York after Parks, 52, brought Tamburello, 46, as her plus-one to MISTR’s “Hot Tub Games” at The Tryst Pool Club on Sunday, September 6.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta star dazzled in black and white Louis Vuitton set while Tamburello opted for a beige button-up shirt and olive pants.

The former Traitors costars looked all loved-up as they smiled for photos. In one snap, The Challenge star snuggled up to Parks and he gave her a sweet kiss on the cheek.

Related: Phaedra Parks Praises ‘Prize’ Chris ‘CT’ Tamburello After Red Carpet Debut

The Real Housewives of Atlanta alum Phaedra Parks was overwhelmingly proud to be on her new beau Chris “CT” Tamburello’s arm at the 2026 Creative Arts Emmy Awards. “Some came for the awards. I came with the prize,” Phaedra, 52, gushed via Instagram on Sunday, September 6, sharing a carousel of images featuring CT, 46, […]

Parks and Tamburello made their red carpet debut together at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 5.

One day before, Parks revealed that she and Tamburello were an item. During an appearance on SiriusXM’s Jeff Lewis Live on Friday, September 4, Parks admitted that she had “been out” with Tamburello but declined to reveal how many dates the pair have had or whether they’d had any “sleepovers” recently.

“I can’t give this [information] to you,” she told host Jeff Lewis. “I’ve got to save it for the world!”

Tamburello and Parks connected during The Traitors season 2, which aired in 2024. While Parks was one of the Traitors, Tamburello was a faithful who went on to win the game alongside Challenge costar Trishelle Cannatella. While in the Traitors castle, Tamburello and Parks were good friends who engaged in flirty banter.

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“Nothing real happened, I’ll be honest with you,” Tamburello told Entertainment Weekly in March 2024. “It was fun. I loved her because she’s a cornball. She was great. I would say there was a sense of sincerity, for sure. But it was also playing a game, you know?”

Related: Phaedra Parks Confirms Relationship With ‘Traitors’ Costar CT Tamburello 

It turns out that The Traitors castle can spark murder, deceit — and love. The Real Housewives of Atlanta alum Phaedra Parks confirmed on the Friday, September 4, broadcast of SiriusXM’s Jeff Lewis Live that she’s dating season 2 costar Chris “CT” Tamburello. “Are you dating? ‘Cause I heard you were going to the Emmys […]

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Tamburello is currently in an ongoing divorce with estranged wife Catalina Winter. Following the news of her ex’s romance, Winter called out Tamburello for allegedly delaying their divorce proceedings.

“I genuinely wish Chris well in whatever relationship or career he chooses to pursue. I’m not interested in commenting on whether his new relationship is real, for publicity, or anything in between,” the OnlyFans star told Us in a statement on Monday, September 7. “What I would like is for him to put the same energy into ending our marriage that he’s putting into publicly promoting his new relationship.”

You may think fall footwear is all about plain black boots, but this year’s trending shoes are anything but basic. Easy mules, sleek slingbacks, low-profile sneakers and dainty flats are just a few highlights, and they start at $10!

The best part about this season’s lineup is the wide range of styles. Whether your aesthetic leans boutiquey, polished or West Coast-cool, you’ll find a must-have pair below. The catch? These picks from Vionic, Adidas, Naturalizer, Project Cloud and more are selling out as we type. Snag your favorites before they’re gone!

13 Chic Fall Shoes — Starting at $10

1. Our Favorite: Something between sneakers, ballet flats and Mary Janes, these hybrid shoes have an undeniably stylish appeal.

2. Stunning Slip-Ons: Gems, pearls, pink! These luxe-looking faux-leather mules scream ‘designer’ from across the office.

3. Multiple Trends: Satin is totally ‘in’ right now, and so are chunky low heels. These dreamy slingbacks are trendy by default.

4. Old Money: You don’t need a Hamptons abode to look like you have one. These old money mules are very convincing; they feature smooth faux leather and a scrunched upper.

5. Silky Satin: Satin ballet flats are as romantic as they sound, especially with a cute bow, pastel color and shiny finish.

Related: Ditch the Boots — Rich Girls Are Wearing These Luxe-Looking Shoes in 2026

When September hits, you may think it’s time to pull out your Chelsea boots. Well, not this year. Rich girls in New York, London and beyond are wearing elevated, luxe-looking shoes instead, and we found 13 chic pairs that capture the aesthetic. These polished sneakerinas, Mary Janes, mules and more are the ticket to high-class […]

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6. Sporty Twist: All the rich moms wear Adidas, so it’s no wonder these low-profile sneakers are flying off the shelves.

7. Burgundy Babe: If you really want to look wealthy, opt for these glossy, pointy mules that glisten effortlessly.

8. Sassy Snakeskin: Yes, you can get Naturalizer slingbacks on Amazon. This pair has an edgy snakeskin print and a comfortable heel that’s under 2 inches.

9. Miss Mary: Look no further for timeless square-toe Mary Janes that make even a tee and jeans appear elevated.

10. Cute Kitten: Cute and romantic, these pointed-toe kitten heels beg to be worn for date night. The leopard print style is optional but not really.

11. Nearly Half Off: A brand like Vionic is worth shopping at full price, so at 43% off, these houndstooth-printed flats are already in our cart.

12. Alternative Queen: These Mary Jane flats channel California-cool mom energy, featuring gold embellishments, a silver buckle and a wine red hue.

13. Center of Attention: Not only are these shimmery, champagne-toned flats elegant, but they’re also very comfortable, courtesy of the cushiony sole.

UsNow Fall Sale Alert: These chic fashion finds are up to 60% off – plus free shipping

Welcome to fall with our biggest sale of the season. Our favorite dresses, tops, handbags, and shoes are all on sale + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Fall Sale –>

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Related: These 15 Polished Amazon Flats Are the New ‘It-Girl‘ Fall Shoe

Curious about the chicest shoe style this season? It’s not chunky sneakers. Sporty kicks had their moment, but this year, everyone’s wearing comfy but polished flats. So, why are chunky white sneakers out this year? We’ve kept up with the latest celeb shoe styles, and low-profile shoes (like ‘sneakerinas’) are what celebs are wearing — […]

Bob Dylan has gotten an astounding amount of press over the last two years, given the release of his 2024 biopic, A Complete Unknown, starring Timothée Chalamet. The film spotlighted his early career and his decision to incorporate electric guitar and rock instruments into folk music, which was controversial at the time. However, as rock enthusiasts everywhere now know, Dylan’s decision proved to be not only popular but revolutionary, and it yielded what many consider to be his greatest album, hands down: Highway 61 Revisited. And now, that album just turned 61.

Image via Leacock-Pennebaker, Inc.

Before Bob Dylan released Highway 61 Revisited in its entirety, he put out feelers with “Like A Rolling Stone,” which was released as a single in June 1965. The track was a near-instant hit, racing up the charts and sitting at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, almost displacing the three-week number one hit “I Got You Babe” by Sonny & Cher in the process. Its success was a shock to Columbia Records, though, which was dubious about the song’s lengthy six-minute timestamp and its electric aspects.

Clearly, rock lovers had an appetite for the changes Dylan was trying to make. Just as he’d begun melding rock music with folk in his previous album, Bringing It All Back Home, he married the two popular genres with ease on Highway 61 Revisited, inspiring generations of musicians in the process. For fellow rock legend Bruce Springsteen, Highway 61 Revisited was the first Bob Dylan album he ever heard—and it was a transformational experience. He once commented that Dylan’s work “thrilled and scared him,” making him “feel kind of irresponsibly innocent. And it still does.”

Indeed, it’s hard to believe that Dylan’s world-weary lyrics on Highway 61 Revisited were written when he was a mere 24 years old. That said, it’s important to remember that the album was Dylan’s sixth, and that he’d been immersed in the gritty world of beatniks and musicians that dominated New York City’s West Village during the 1960s. Furthermore, when writing his lyrics, Dylan drew from musical and historical sources of inspiration that deepened his work.

‘Highway 61 Revisited’ Is More than Just an Album—It’s an American Reckoning

Highway 61 runs from Louisiana to the Canadian border, passing through Dylan’s hometown of Duluth, Minnesota. Music writer David Sheppard points out that this highway also traces the path of African Americans seeking employment during interwar years—a path that also brought blues music from the south to the north. By incorporating blues into his album (most vividly in the album’s final song, “Desolation Row”) and nodding at the impact of this highway, Dylan subtly acknowledges the Black roots of his own genre. He also borrows from Mexican-American musician Richie Valens’ “La Bamba” in “Like a Rolling Stone,” further incorporating the diversity of American music into his album.

Finally, through his lyrics, Dylan elevates American culture to biblical proportions in Highway 61 Revisited. In “Desolation Row,” for instance, he references Cain and Abel, while in the album’s titular song, he applies the story of Abraham to the American Midwest just as John Steinbeck applied the story of Genesis to the West in East of Eden. And, like Steinbeck, Dylan taps into the beauty, rot, and heartbreak of America all at once.

At 61, Bob Dylan’s Highway 61 Revisited is no less important than it was when it debuted in 1965. Without its melding of rock and folk genres, we would not have much of the music that defines and delights America today, and many artists of the 1960s and beyond would not have found the inspiration they needed to create their own historic work. Plus, Dylan’s vision of America—as a collection of haves and have-nots struggling to scramble ahead of one another— is perhaps even more poignant today.

Katie Holmes is soaking up the sun with boyfriend Jason Bard Yarmosky.

Yarmosky, 39, took to Instagram on Sunday, September 7, to share a joint post with Holmes, 47, featuring several photos from a recent boat trip in Lake Como, Italy. The carousel included a snap of the Dawson’s Creek alum sporting a sexy black halter dress with an asymmetrical, low-cut neckline. She leaned into Yarmosky, who wore a black long-sleeved tee and matching pants, as they posed on the back of the vessel.

In another photo, Holmes lounged in the sun while wearing a tiny white string bikini. A third snap showed the actress wearing a sheer cover-up dress as she planted her hands and feet on the top of the boat and arched her back with the sunset illuminating her from behind.

Yarmosky also included a few photos of Holmes swimming by the boat.

Related: ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Cast: Where Are They Now?

Ever since Dawson’s Creek premiered in 1998, the show became a favorite among fans and remains one of the most popular teen dramas to ever hit the small screen. The series followed the life of Joey Potter (Katie Holmes), a tomboy who is just trying to make it through high school following the death of […]

Holmes and Yarmosky, a New York-based artist specializing in paintings and drawings, were first spotted together at a screening of The Invite hosted by The Cinema Society at the East Hampton Regal UA in the Big Apple in July. Two weeks later, the pair were spotted kissing and embracing each other during a date night at Sienna Spiro’s private performance in NYC.

The couple stepped out on their first public outing at Ferragamo’s pop-up dinner hosted by Gabrielle Union at the Hamptons’ Topping Rose House on July 25. Less than one month later, Yarmosky made the romance Instagram official in August by sharing a photo of Holmes, who smiled at the camera as she sported a cream-colored top and matching skirt with metallic heels.

Though Holmes and Yarmosky have yet to publicly discuss their romance, the First Daughter star recently called her boyfriend the “best of the best” in a birthday tribute. The September 1 Instagram post featured a snap of the couple snuggling up to each other as they held microphones in what appeared to be a karaoke session.

Holmes’ romance with Yarmosky comes more than one month after she reunited with ex-boyfriend and former Dawson’s Creek costar Joshua Jackson in the Tribeca Film Festival premiere of her new rom-com, Happy Hours.

Related: Joshua Jackson and Katie Holmes’ Sweetest Quotes About Their Friendship

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From teen sweethearts on Dawson’s Creek to lifelong friends who reunited on screen decades later, Joshua Jackson and Katie Holmes have one of Hollywood’s most enduring bonds. The two first met as teenagers when they were cast on the WB teen drama in 1997, and their connection has only deepened through breakups, career milestones and […]

Holmes and Jackson, 48, played love interests Joey Potter and Pacey Witter, respectively, on the ‘90s teen drama. They also briefly dated off screen in 1998, calling it quits after one year together. Despite their split, the exes have remained close friends.

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“The time that we spent together when we were young is very precious to both of us,” Jackson shared at the film festival. “And [it] is like one of the core personal and professional relationships in my life.”

Happy Hours, which is slated to be a trilogy, follows a pair of exes who rekindle their connection and must decide if their love is worth a second chance. The film marked Holmes and Jackson’s first project together in 25 years.

“I take it very seriously, and I want to do right by Josh. I have a great deal of respect. So I wanted it to be right,” Holmes said at the festival. “We’ve often talked about doing something again, but we never knew what. So it was really about that and agreeing to go for it, I suppose. He said yes, and that made me feel very good.”

When it comes to great sci-fi TV shows, there is a plethora of subjects to focus on. An enduring, eerie, and captivating one is the exploration of life outside of the known universe. Aliens and science fiction go hand in hand, and over the years the entertainment industry has brought some truly fantastic creatures to the small screen.

Whether they are benevolent or malevolent, aliens have been some of the most commanding characters in sci-fi programming. Some entities are able to communicate with the humans they interact with, opening up cerebral dialogues that plumb the depths of intellectual discourse. Others merely snarl and drool. Either way, when it comes to having some excellent extraterrestrials on screen, these TV shows know what they’re doing.

‘Alien: Earth’ (2025–Present)

Image via FX on Hulu

There are so many creepy, slimy, and disturbing creatures featured in Alien: Earth that it is difficult to know where to begin. The series builds upon the franchise established by the feature films and includes one of the most recognizable aliens ever, the Xenomorph. Alien: Earth doubles down on the dread and introduces an entire host (pun intended) of new predatory and parasitic lifeforms just itching to overtake organic life on Earth.

However, in Alien: Earth, organic life is not what it used to be. In the series, humanity has been perfecting the manufacture of artificial bodies, including cyborgs, synthetics, and hybrids. Alien: Earth has several imaginative and out-of-the-ordinary alien designs, bringing some entirely new and unnerving concepts to the genre. While many sci-fi series rely on a humanoid shape to base their aliens on, Alien: Earth thinks outside the box and uses everything from flies to eyeballs. Alien: Earth does credit to the raison d’être of the first movies and gives audiences some truly dreadful creatures to haunt their nightmares.

‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ (1987–1994)

Image via Paramount Television

It had been 18 years since viewers had seen live actors don Starfleet uniforms and boldly go onto TV screens when Star Trek: The Next Generation debuted. A Star Trek TV series for a new era, the series embodied the mission of the original show and explored some profound and meaningful topics. Star Trek: TNG was decades ahead of its time, and the philosophical debates visited in the series are still remarkably relevant today.

Nothing was off the table for Star Trek: The Next Generation, and episode themes included everything from racism to artificial intelligence to gender conformity and more. One of the principal ways the show achieved this was having the main characters interact with various alien cultures. By using predominantly humanoid aliens that could communicate easily with the crew, the series was able to focus on more esoteric matters.

One of the most intriguing and malicious entities the crew of the Enterprise encounters is Q (John de Lancie). Although he assumes a human form to interact with the officers, he is an extradimensional being with tremendous power to alter reality. Q’s sordid manipulations try to test Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) several times in the series. He gets sick pleasure in mentally dissecting the human psyche and is a formidable foe in the canon. It is Q who makes the Borg aware of the Enterprise’s presence, setting off a chain of events that would change the series and the greater Star Trek mythos forever. From Q to the Borg to the fascinating Tamarian race in the episode “Darmok,” who only communicate by referencing their own civilization’s folklore, Star Trek: The Next Generation has given the world some of the best aliens out there.

‘Resident Alien’ (2021–2025)

Image via SYFY

Resident Alien is a cozy dramedy starring Alan Tudyk as an alien who crashes his ship on Earth. In order to blend in, he assumes the identity of the local doctor, Harry Vanderspeigle. As Harry bonds with Asta Twelvetrees (Sara Tomko), he finds it increasingly difficult to complete his mission to destroy the planet. The ensemble setting and small town vibe make it an alien show like no other. As Collider’s Anthony Crislip notes, “By the end of the series, Patience feels like a real place, like Stars Hollow in Gilmore Girls or Parks and Rec‘s Pawnee […].”

Resident Alien excels on many fronts, including writing, representation, and a phenomenally talented cast. Another area where the series feels fresh and interesting is with its species design. Though there are nods to classic alien tropes like “the greys,” there are also large bird races, octopus-like critters, and Harry’s true form, which feels like a nod to sci-fi classics like This Island Earth. Resident Alien and Tudyk’s performance took opportunities to be novel, unpredictable, and exciting, and it is one of the funniest sci-fi comedies ever.

‘Farscape’ (1999–2003)

Image via Sci-Fi Channel

Farscape takes alien life to a further dimension in that the ship in which the crew travels is alive. The ship is sentient, has a name (Moya), and sometimes has a will of its own. Moya is not the only fascinating species in Farscape; there are several characters, including the main cast of Pilot (Lani John Tupu) and Dominar Rygel XVI (Jonathan Hardy), that are distinctly different from the rest. Brought to life by The Jim Henson Company, these characters are played by animatronics and puppetry and still feel lifelike and believable.

Farscape has many alien races to choose from, and humans like the space/time castaway John Crichton (Ben Browder) are the minority. The main characters of Farscape comprise a motley crew, not an organized and trained team, and watching their impulsive personalities clash and gel together is highly rewarding. Farscape has strong story arcs throughout the series, and the heroes and villains are fascinating to observe.

‘The X-Files’ (1993–2018)

Image via FOX

One of the most influential sci-fi TV series of all time, The X-Files used a procedural format to deliver gripping monster-of-the-week episodes. Skeptic Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) is paired with eccentric Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) at the FBI, and they are tasked with investigating the more supernatural and inexplicable cases. The X-Files ranged from fantasy lore to straight-up sci-fi in its creature features, but every situation provided intense drama and high stakes.

The X-Files is the best supplier of bogeymen ever. Every week, the creators found a new way to scare the daylight out of their viewers. From alien-human hybrids to murderous imps, every fan has their favorite spook and episode that deprived them of sleep for a little while. The special effects on The X-Files are more than competent, and the use of practical effects and lighting helped sell the horror. The X-Files is exemplary at alien depiction and remains a staple in the genre.

‘Doctor Who’ (1963–2025)

The longest-running sci-fi series in history has given the world some truly intriguing aliens. Doctor Who follows an alien themselves, a persona known as The Doctor, who comes from a race known as Time Lords. Together with a companion, this space and time traveler visits various planets and moments in time, sometimes to observe, and sometimes to intervene.

Doctor Who has a brilliant plot device embedded at its core in that The Doctor can “regenerate.” This has allowed the series to continue for decades, with each Doctor transforming into a new actor each time the previous one has departed from the show. In the ultimate “the show must go on,” Doctor Who rarely breaks stride, and it has made an indelible impact on television history. As The Doctor encounters each alien race, they not only affect the aliens, but the aliens affect them in some way. Several have incited him to rage, some have inspired him to love, and others have taught him lessons about himself or a profound concept he wanted to grasp.

The concept creation in Doctor Who has evolved greatly over the decades. From the Daleks, who resemble moving vacuum cleaners, to Lady Cassandra (Zoë Wanamaker), who is a stretched piece of skin, the show has exercised unlimited creativity when it comes to character design. While the budget of the series has undoubtedly increased over its tenure, Doctor Who is at its best when it feels organic and homemade. When the aliens look like something you could easily build a cosplay for at home, the fandom becomes infinitely more accessible and endearing. Although poor casting choices and divisive writing decisions have recently resulted in a massive drop in viewership and cancelation, Doctor Who will inevitably do what it has always done: regenerate itself and come back all the stronger in the future.

‘Lost in Space’ (2018–2021)

Image via Netflix

At only three seasons long, Lost in Space is a bingeworthy series that will keep viewers hooked from the very beginning. When Netflix updated the IP for a new generation, the large robotic character that bonds with young Will Robinson (Maxwell Jenkins) got a remake as well. A blend of a living alien race and cyborg technology, The Robot (Brian Steele) is rendered incredibly well and looks vastly more interesting than its predecessor.

From its towering height to its muscular build, The Robot is a formidable presence on screen. Then, in a unique design antithesis, it evokes childlike wonder with its face, which is a moving, swirling screen that looks like a universe contained within. The Robot tries to understand its identity later in the series and reason whether it is more of a machine or an organic lifeform. It can also shapeshift to some degree. When The Robot first meets Will, it looks far more alien with several limbs and a serpentine neck, but after bonding with Will, The Robot takes on a more human form to mimic its new friend. Delivering an emotive performance with no facial features and limited dialogue is a challenge, but Lost in Space delivers, and The Robot is a dynamic character in the series.

‘The Mandalorian’ (2019–2023)

Image via Disney+

It is safe to say that the TV series that has had the ultimate and unprecedented response to alien design this century is The Mandalorian. A tiny sidekick that was a simple plot in a new Star Wars series on Disney+ became a global sensation that took fandom by storm. When The Mandalorian was released right before the holiday season in November 2019, no one at Disney had predicted how big a sensation the little green alien called Grogu would be. A spectacular role reversal happened that Christmas season, and for several weeks the only Grogu (nicknamed “Baby Yoda” by fans) merchandise that could be found was from independent makers, not large toy companies or conglomerates.

This organic origin to Grogu solidified his status as one of the most beloved sci-fi TV characters ever, human, alien, or otherwise. He belonged to the fans, and they took him into their lives with arms open wide. With his adorably large ears, infantile eyes, and tiny frame, he charmed millions of viewers all over the world and is recognizable outside the series itself. Disney did not see the incredible adoration for this little dynamo coming, and the response he generated continues to pour out with love and affection. The dynamic writing, direction, and acting gave the series a soul, but Grogu gave it a heart.

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The Mandalorian

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Release Date

2019 – 2023-00-00

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Network

Disney+

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Directors

Rick Famuyiwa, Bryce Dallas Howard, Dave Filoni, Carl Weathers, Peyton Reed, Deborah Chow, Jon Favreau, Peter Ramsey, Robert Rodriguez, Taika Waititi, Lee Isaac Chung

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One of the most beloved genres of cinema is romance. Why? Because we often compare our desires for love and passion to the moments we see on screen. While life may not be a perfect Hollywood love story, we admire these stories because they represent something we strive for.

Movie history has provided us with some of the very best romantic films ever. From heartbreaking tragedies to hilarious comedies, love knows no bounds. While there are certainly hundreds of great romantic films, these ten represent a perfect smattering of styles, genres, time periods, and narratives. These romantic movies have become timeless because they are simply sensational stories that remind us that love is real.

1

‘Brokeback Mountain’ (2005)

Image via Focus Features

Love is about doing whatever you must to be with the one who holds your heart. That’s the core of the tragically beautiful Brokeback Mountain. Adapted from a short story by Annie Proulx, the romantic Neo-Western depicts the complex, decades-long secret relationship between two cowboys, Ennis Del Mar (Heath Ledger) and Jack Twist (Jake Gyllenhaal), in the American West from 1963 to 1983. Isolated in the wilderness, Ennis and Jack develop a deep emotional bond that turns into a passionate romance. Set in a time when same-sex relationships were considered taboo, Brokeback Mountain explores isolated loneliness, repressed identity, and the high emotional cost of living a secret life constrained by societal expectations.

The Oscar-nominated film offers a brilliant analysis of queer romance that resonated upon release, as it was released at a time when LGBTQ+ rights were still not widely mainstream. Brokeback Mountain depicted a brutal yet tender love forced to overcome the tragic weight of external stress and internal turmoil. The ideals of a hypermasculine cowboy are shattered as the men are portrayed with deep emotions as two people who deeply love one another. From subtle glances, long silences, and stolen moments to rich intimacy, Brokeback Mountain defied the norms of gay relationships, becoming a beacon of genuine queer love. That said, in the end, the crushing loss will stay with you forever.

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‘Casablanca’ (1942)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

There’s no denying that Casablanca is one of the greatest films of all time. A major reason why is the core love story. Directed by Michael Curtiz, Casablanca follows Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart), a cynical, upscale nightclub and café owner in Morocco who must choose between his old love, Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman), and helping her husband, Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid), escape the Nazis. In the ultimate test of duty and heart, Casablanca becomes a tale of sacrifice, moral courage, and putting the greater good above personal heartbreak. With a profoundly perfect final scene, Casablanca is romance to the core.

For those classic film aficionados, Casablanca remains top-tier cinema and a crucial viewing for its brilliant balance of a vivid love story and a profound war story. On the surface, Rick and Ilsa’s love is a micro moment against the macro event, and yet their decision can alter the world’s future should he decide to choose her. Instead, it’s inferred that love endures in the end. Even though they are permanently separated, true love means parting ways for the greater good. “We’ll always have Paris,” he says. Bogart and Bergman have magnetic chemistry that makes their final moments utterly bittersweet. Casablanca is the ultimate love-triangle tale in which bitter honesty leads to immense devastation. We can all learn something from Rick Blaine.

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‘Dirty Dancing’ (1987)

It’s safe to say that upon watching Dirty Dancing, you’ve had the time of your life. The epitome of ‘80s romance, Dirty Dancing is the timeless coming-of-age story of Frances “Baby” Houseman (Jennifer Grey) who falls in love with a working-class dance instructor named Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze) while on a family vacation in the Catskills in 1963. While stepping in for Johnny’s dance partner, the pair fall in love despite coming from very different social classes. Approaching major social topics of the era beyond fairy-tale fluff, the film will forever be defined by the power of intimacy forged through dance.

For a romance to resonate, there absolutely must be on-screen chemistry. That’s exactly what Grey and Swayze had. With a natural connection, there was innate authenticity that allowed you to champion Baby and Johnny. And Swayze’s professional dance background made him all the more alluring. From the lift in the lake to the final dance sequence, these moments not only defined the decade but also cemented the film in pop culture greatness. Dirty Dancing moved beyond a love story, as Baby’s sexual awakening and transformation were universally resonant. With a powerful, moving musical score that drives the emotional narrative, Dirty Dancing remains a legendary romantic movie. ​​​​​​​

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‘Ghost’ (1990)

Image Via Paramount Pictures

Maybe Patrick Swayze was the romance whisperer because here he comes again. Directed by Jerry Zucker, the 1990 classic Ghost tells the story of a murdered banker named Sam Wheat (Swayze) who returns as a spirit to protect his girlfriend Molly Jensen (Demi Moore) from his friend and coworker, Carl Bruner (Tony Goldwyn), who hired a killer, Willie Lopez (Rick Aviles), to kill him. Realizing she’s in danger, Sam uses a storefront psychic named Oda Mae Brown (Whoopi Goldberg) to warn her. With magic from the great beyond, Sam and Molly celebrate enduring love without words. Moving beyond a supernatural thriller, Ghost remains the blueprint for profoundly projective moments on screen.

Ghost set the bar for how love can be in love and death. The film reminds viewers to express their feelings immediately because time is short, creating a powerful universal resonance. It also marked how romantic the word “ditto” can be. Speaking from experience, “likewise” doesn’t hold the same emotional weight. Ghost will forever be remembered for the infamous clay-spinning scene set to the Righteous Brothers‘ “Unchained Melody.” The scene showcased intense physical intimacy with emotional vulnerability. The movie cleverly mixed supernatural fantasy, a murder mystery, and era comedic relief that set the tone for romantic films that followed. ​​​​​​​

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‘Gone with the Wind’ (1939)

Image via MGM

Perhaps the greatest period drama ever is Gone with the Wind. The historical epic romance directed by Victor Fleming tells the story of strong-willed Southern belle Scarlett O’Hara (Vivien Leigh) at her Georgia plantation of Tara, where she embarks on a passionate relationship with the roguish profiteer Rhett Butler (Clark Gable). Depicting a specific moment in time during the American Civil War and Reconstruction era, the adaptation of the Margaret Mitchell drama explores unrequited longing, pride, and the tragic realization of true love only after it is lost. Gone with the Wind is the ultimate romantic epic, as a sweeping backdrop sets the tone for an unforgettable, bittersweet conclusion.

Though certainly controversial by today’s standards, there’s no denying the classic nature of Gone with the Wind. Focusing on the central love story, Scarlett O’Hara and Rhett Butler are not traditionally perfect romantic leads but rather complex, flawed individuals. They are stubborn, selfish, and fiercely independent, leading to their mesmerizing, turbulent push-and-pull. Scarlett’s transformation from a pampered debutante to a hardened survivor highlights human endurance during total societal collapse. Rhett combines the classic charm of a cynical rogue with rare emotional honesty and depth. With legendary dialogue and a haunting conclusion, frankly, my dear, Gone with the Wind remains a brilliant cinematic moment. ​​​​​​​

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‘Moulin Rouge’ (2001)

Image via 20th Century Studios

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Many musicals include a timeless romance at the center of the story, but very rarely are they as iconic as that of Christian (Ewan McGregor) and Satine (Nicole Kidman) in Moulin Rouge! In Baz Luhrmann’s vibrant jukebox musical film, the story follows a young and idealistic poet who joins a lively group of bohemian artists as he falls in love with the sparkling diamond-star courtesan of the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret club. In a case of mistaken identity, Satine mistakes Christian for a wealthy investor, but he wins her heart with a barrage of love songs. A ticking-clock romance where Satine’s fate is revealed in the beginning, the fabulous affair becomes a high-stakes race to savor every moment. Featuring a sweeping soundtrack of classic songs, Moulin Rouge brings the highs and lows of love through a tragedy that reminds us that all you need is love.

A film that is utterly spectacular, spectacular, Moulin Rouge helped revive the movie musical in the 21st century. The film treats love as an all-consuming emotion, making it an instantly accessible film. It anchors the film through the pillars of truth, beauty, freedom, and love, where the greatest gift is knowing the feeling is to love and receive love in return. While Moulin Rouge may have been a fine romance without its brilliant score, the use of a genre-blending musical identity lifts it up to where it belongs. From Elton John to Madonna with Nirvana in between, it has universal relevance. “The Elephant Love Medley” remains one of the great musical cinematic moments. Though Moulin Rouge is a tragic, doomed story, the journey to get there is, in the end, breathlessly beautiful. ​​​​​​​

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‘Roman Holiday’ (1953)

Image via Paramount Pictures

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One of the most beloved classic romantic comedies of all time is Roman Holiday. The William Wyler-directed film, based on a story by Dalton Trumbo, tells the story of bored European Princess Ann (Audrey Hepburn) who escapes her rigid royal duties to explore Rome on her own. She’s then discovered by American newsman Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck), who hopes to use her identity for a scoop. Falling in love in the process, they come to the revelation that their worlds are too far apart. With a fairy-tale charm and a bittersweet look at love, duty, and sacrifice, Roman Holiday is romantic escapism at its finest.

A realistic depiction of love through a heightened, fantastical entry, Roman Holiday celebrates love through its memorable moments. Wyler shot the entire film on location in Rome, giving the film a tangible, dreamy, authentic atmosphere. Between riding on a Vespa scooter and visiting the Mouth of Truth, the setting was as important as the iconic performances. Hepburn earned an Oscar for her first major Hollywood role, captivating audiences with her innocence and elegance. Peck’s calm sincerity provided the right balance for an effortless spark. While it may not be a happily ever after, Roman Holiday established the blueprint for vacation romances, giving audiences hope that they may find their royal romance during the international escapades. ​​​​​​​

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‘The Princess Bride’ (1987)

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We all wish to have a happily ever after, and our expectation for such may be due to the greatest romantasy film of all time, The Princess Bride. Told through the framing device of a grandfather (Peter Falk) telling a story to his grandson (Fred Savage), The Princess Bride follows a farmhand named Westley (Carey Elwes) who tries to rescue his true love, Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright), from evil Prince Humperdinck (Chris Sarandon). A triumphant story of true love, the Rob Reiner-directed film effortlessly blends fairy-tale romance, revenge, friendship, and humor into a sensationally delightful tale that continues to be passed down through generations.

Though The Princess Bride pokes fun at the genre and traditional fairy-tale tropes, it remains a classic example of true love. Being self-aware allows the audience to go on the journey through honest accessibility. The Princess Bride may be set in a far-off land, but at its core, it reminds viewers that love is worth fighting for. What makes the film universal is that it pairs typical romantic elements with high-stakes swashbuckling adventure for fully pumped action. Hearing Westley utter “As you wish” remains one of the most romantic lines of devotion in cinema. Called off with an iconic kiss, The Princess Bride is a bona fide classic. ​​​​​​​

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‘Titanic’ (1997)

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Yes, Titanic depicts the worst disaster in history, but that film is one damn good romance! Brought to life by James Cameron, the epic romance film depicts the tragic 1912 maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic, where wealthy Rose DeWitt Bukater (Kate Winslet) embarks on a forbidden romance with lower-class Jack Dawson (Leonardo DiCaprio). From an intimate sketch to a moment at the bow of the ship, their love only grows until a tragic end. Whether there was room on the door or not, their love is unified in the complete adoration cinephiles have for the film. Titanic is proof that love knows no societal boundaries. An intense film in all respects of the word, Titanic redefined romance forever.

A truly beautifully crafted masterpiece, Titanic rewrote history by humanizing the tragedy in a profound manner. With the emotional stakes astronomically high, the sinking of the ship feels like a knife in the heart. By centering on Jack and Rose, it allowed the audience to genuinely emote by the tragedy that eventually hits. DiCaprio and Winslet brought an electric magnetism built on playful humor and deep affection. Of course, having one of the greatest romantic movie songs attached to the film elevates the romance even further. Titanic is an anomaly. There will simply never be another disaster film that can replicate this type of narrative without coming off as derivative. ​​​​​​​

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‘When Harry Met Sally’ (1989)

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The romcom is how we imagine our romantic lives playing out. If there was ever one that might be the most authentic, it’s When Harry Met Sally. Directed by Rob Reiner and written by Nora Ephron, the story centers on whether men and women can ever truly be just platonic friends. Charting the evolving relationship between Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan), the film showcases how friendship truly can lead to everlasting love. When Harry Met Sally is a grounded, funny, and honest look at why the greatest relationships are the ones that stand the test of time.

When Harry Met Sally is a film that takes its time. Rather than diving in head-first, Ephron’s text allows the duo to simmer. This means a deep, platonic bond can grows before romance ever enters the picture. Sally feels like a real person. Harry is cynical, neurotic, and sharp-tongued, while Sally is particular, vibrant, and resistant to chaos. Both characters experience true personal growth, learning from failed relationships, aging, and shifts in perspective. Crystal and Ryan have an enigmatic chemistry that became the goalpost for every ‘90s on-screen romcom duo. The Katz Deli scene may be the very best in a romantic comedy for its unexpected nature and the brilliance of its performance. Balancing genuine pain and warmth, When Harry Met Sally is the gold standard romcom.

Ashtin Earle is opening up about the less glamorous side of being in the public eye alongside her famous sister, Alix Earle!

While preparing dinner in Los Angeles, the reality star gave her TikTok followers a look into her life as she promotes the family’s new reality program, “Earle Meets World.” Although Alix, 25, is at ease in front of the cameras and during interviews, Ashtin, 23, said she finds it much harder when the spotlight is on her.

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While in Los Angeles for another set of press engagements, she spoke about the difficulties interviews can cause her. She admitted that she and Alix had just completed a full week of press in New York and that she isn’t good at it. Ashtin couldn’t help but compare herself with her sister and said, “Alix is so good and articulate and well-spoken in interviews, whereas I am the exact opposite.”

She also said her nerves aren’t entirely new: “I’m pretty sure I’ve mentioned before how, back in school, I used to get panic attacks when I had to give a presentation,” and added, “It’s exactly the same for me.”

Even taking part in virtual interviews, Ashtin can still feel flustered.

“Even with Zoom interviews, I get really flustered and nervous,” Ashtin revealed. “But these were all in person.”

Alix Earle Helped Ashtin Through The Press Tour

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During the week in question, the sisters had a very busy schedule as they promoted their show, and Ashtin showed exactly how full it became. She explained that they used to wake up around 5:30 every day and stay up until 6 PM. Fortunately, Ashtin didn’t have to go through the experience alone because Alix was there. Yet it didn’t entirely ease her nerves about having her sister with her.

“Thankfully Alix and I did everything together, so I didn’t have to do anything alone,” the social media personality said. “But I just, I don’t know, I get so nervous and like awkward for that kind of stuff. And I forget how to speak like a real person. So if anything comes out and you see me like being stupid, just ignore it.”

Ashtin Earle Is ‘Scared’ To Watch Herself On TV

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It isn’t just the press tour that’s making Ashtin feel nervous. Now that “Earle Meets World” has been released, she has admitted she has never particularly enjoyed watching herself on camera. The model said she kept posting that she didn’t want the show to come out, though she made it clear her concern doesn’t come from thinking she did something embarrassing.

“Not because I did anything wrong,” she said. “I just don’t like seeing myself on camera like that. Like, it’s not like I’m doing anything bad, it’s just like I like cringe at myself.”

That sensation goes beyond the reality show as well.

“Even with videos like this, I cannot watch them back after I have edited them,” Ashtin admitted.

Ashtin Earle Opens Up About Her Career Struggles

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While there was excitement about the show, Ashtin also admitted her career hasn’t always felt certain.

“I’m always in some sort of like existential crisis because especially with like what I do with like social media and everything, work kind of like ebbs and flows,” she explained. “So it’s like some days I have like so much work and I’m doing all this stuff, and then other days it’s like I’m doing nothing, and then I’m like, what am I doing with my life?”

Despite all that, Ashtin said she’s currently in a “really happy place” in her life.

She’s Excited For What’s Next

Donna Mills is showing there’s now slowing down when it comes to staying fit.

The former Knots Landing star, 85, revealed the rigorous routine that keeps her in tip-top shape weeks after launching her OnlyFans account.

Mills told Fox News in a new interview published on Saturday, September 5, that she builds her abs by doing cardio and reps including 100 sit-ups a day, 50 leg lifts and stretching. “I have a ballet barre in my little gym,” she added. “And ride the bike for about 45 minutes or an hour. I play tennis five times a week sometimes. And so that’s very, very important.”

As for her diet, “I’ve always been anti-sugar.”

Related: Donna Mills, 85, Slams Critic Who Said She Wears ‘Too Much Makeup’

Donna Mills isn’t letting anyone tell her how to look — and her fans are absolutely here for it. The Knots Landing alum, 85, responded to an Instagram commenter who told her, “You wear too much makeup for your age,” and the result is a video her followers won’t soon forget. Rather than ignore the […]

“I read a book a long time ago called Sugar Blues that really talked about the sugar industry and everything, and I have stayed away from it ever since,” she said, referring to the 1975 bestseller by William Dufty.

The actress said that she’s always valued her health and was very active in her younger years.

“I started out as a dancer, a ballerina. I mean, I was on pointe, the whole thing,” she said, revealing that keeping up with her classes gave her great habits that she has since maintained. “So that gave me a discipline that most people don’t have because ballet is very hard.”

Mills also shed light on her new OnlyFans account, revealing it has been doing “incredibly well” since she joined the platform in July.

“They want to know me,” she shared of her subscribers. “They want to know what I do during the day when I’m home. They want to see my home. They want to know much more about my personal life than we ever experienced back in the ’80s and the ’90s that, you know, the fans were cut off from.”

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Related: Why ‘Knots Landing’ Stars Say Constance McCashin’s Exit Left a ‘Scar’

Nearly 40 years after Constance McCashin’s Laura was dramatically written off Knots Landing, her former costars are still uneasy about what transpired. “I think many people were really bummed when she left the show,” Donna Mills said of McCashin’s sudden departure during a joint appearance with castmates Joan Van Ark and Michele Lee at the […]

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Mills rose to fame while portraying Abby Cunningham on the soap opera Knots Landing, a role that ultimately earned her three Soap Opera Digest Awards. She went on to appear on General Hospital, V.C. Andrews’ Dawn and Doctor Odyssey — just to name a few.

As for her private life, Mills welcomed her daughter, Chloe Mills, via adoption in 1994. Nearly seven years later, she met her longtime partner, Larry Gilman.

“I was very concentrated on my career, but at a certain point, I realized there was something missing — it was a child,” she told People in 2022. “So I went after it. By that time, I was 54 and people said, ‘You’re going to be so old [to] have a little toddler running around.’ I never felt that. I never felt older than the other mothers who were probably in their 20s.”