It’s not unusual for franchises to switch formats; Jack Ryan fans are very familiar with this concept, as the action story began as a popular book series before sprawling between movies and a TV show. While the films were compact, high-octane adrenaline shots, the series stretched out the protagonist’s development using a more serialized structure, making for a vastly different yet memorable experience. If the conclusion of Prime Video’s Jack Ryan has left a certain void behind, then you need to check out Netflix’s newest action series, which also adapts a popular novel into a TV format. Man on Fire is the perfect mix of ludicrous action sequences and a complicated action hero on a relentless pursuit of vengeance.

‘Man on Fire’ Is a Dark, Action-Packed Revenge Story

Netflix’s 2026 adaptation is the fourth iteration of the story that began as a 1980 novel by AJ Quinnell, which was famously adapted into two different films of the same name, one in 1987 starring Scott Glenn and one in 2004 starring Denzel Washington. For the Netflix series, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II takes on the lead role of John Creasy, a man with a specialized set of skills stemming from a violent past. In the original book, Creasy is hired to protect the daughter of a rich family, only to go on a revenge spree after the mafia kidnaps and kills her. The newest adaptation pushes the story further as the series’ version of Creasy reluctantly teams up with the girl, Poe (Billie Boullet), after the death of her father, who was also one of his closest friends.

The one thing that stays consistent throughout Man on Fire adaptations is the violence. Creasy may be more complicated than the typical action hero, especially since he deals with PTSD, but viewers can rely on him to dramatically dominate fistfights and jump out of a moving vehicle without breaking a sweat. The series’ seven episodes are jam-packed with ludicrous action sequences and an exhilarating amount of blood, but beyond the choreography and flow, some of the scenes have a sharp, vicious edge, like the uncomfortably creative use of a car battery on a tied-up soldier.

Netflix’s ‘Man on Fire’ Delves Into John Creasy’s Complexities as an Action Hero

Unlike Jack Ryan and your typical walking-away-from-an-explosion action hero, Creasy is much more of an anti-hero who operates on his own moral compass. Creasy may be hardened, but he is relentlessly haunted by his past, and we get glimpses into the utter psychological turmoil in his head. On one hand, there is a genuine darkness in him that Abdul-Mateen II captures masterfully, as the stern lines in his face and his unwavering gaze can easily slip into something far more malicious. His performance allows us to believe that Creasy is capable of awful things, especially when he sometimes goes way beyond the line of necessity when interrogating people or simply dispatching enemies; it becomes less of a necessary evil and more of a borderline compulsion.

On the other hand, the Netflix adaptation hones in on Creasy’s father-daughter-like relationship with Poe more so than the previous films, showcasing another side of his mindset. The serialized structure and Poe’s extended presence allow viewers to delve deeper into Creasy’s psychology than ever before, where Poe oscillates between being the light that drags Creasy back from being consumed by total darkness and the uncomfortable mirror that reflects Creasy’s own insatiable thirst for vengeance back at him. Due to forced proximity, he reluctantly contemplates how his actions impact Poe, and if crossing the line is worth it if it taints the only remnant of his closest friend. Abdul-Mateen II and Boullet find an easy rhythm on screen that conveys the wrought tension and unexpected bond that blooms between the characters, anchoring the show’s unfettered violence in something unnervingly human.

Action fans need to flock to this Netflix series as it blends explosive action sequences with a gloomier, sharper edge. John Creasy has been a Man on Fire for over four decades, but this show proves why new adaptations can still offer unique value with an iteration of the character that feels more disturbingly human than ever before.

Although tricky to pull off, fantasy is one of the most enjoyable genres when done right. It can transport readers to sprawling kingdoms, haunted cities, magical universities, and forgotten worlds filled with wonder and danger, keeping you flicking through hundreds of pages, desperate to find out what happens next.

With that in mind, this list looks at the fantasy books that keep readers invested from the very first page to the last. These triumphs of literature offer colorful characters, immersive settings, smooth prose, and compelling plots. In the process, they achieve what so few books do: ensuring that our attention basically never wavers.

‘The Way of Kings’ (2010)

Image via Tor Fantasy

“Life before death. Strength before weakness. Journey before destination.” The Way of Kings is the first installment in Brandon Sanderson‘s gargantuan Stormlight Archive series (with 5 books published already, all door-stoppers). Set on the storm-ravaged world of Roshar, the book follows several interconnected protagonists, including slave-turned-soldier Kaladin, noble scholar Shallan Davar, and war leader Dalinar Kholin.

It’s classic fantasy stuff, confidently executed: political intrigue, ancient mysteries, devastating wars, and the gradual return of powers long thought lost. The plot moves quickly and serves up a lot of action, including people doing battle with obscenely powerful magic swords. Admittedly, some characters are a little underwritten, more like archetypes than real people, but the novel compensates with rich worldbuilding, juicy mysteries, and a likable protagonist in Kaladin. His efforts to protect his comrades on the battlefield provide much of the story’s emotional weight.

‘Empire of the Vampire’ (2021)

Image via HarperCollins

“Too much hate will burn a man to cinders.” This one is a fun riff on dark fantasy and vampire tropes. In Empire of the Vampire, the sun has not risen properly in decades, vampires have conquered much of the world, and humanity survives only in isolated strongholds. In this bleak world, our protagonist Gabriel de León, the last of the legendary Silver Saints, recounts the events that led to civilization’s collapse. The plot shifts Gabriel between timelines, gradually revealing more about the character and his enemies.

Author Jay Kristoff clearly put a lot of effort into the vampire mythology here, creating several different bloodlines with different leaders, all vying for power. He draws on many classic ideas from vampire stories but manages to make them feel fresh with cool twists or by pushing them to the extreme. There’s also killer action and witty one-liners aplenty.

‘Beyond the Deepwoods’ (1998)

Image via Doubleday

“Never stray from the path.” This is the first book in the marvelous Edge Chronicles series, written by Paul Stewart and illustrated by Chris Riddell. It’s more straightforward and breezy than some of the more ambitious later installments, but that’s also part of its charm. In it, a young boy named Twig leaves home and ventures into the dangerous Deepwoods, a vast wilderness filled with bizarre creatures, strange landscapes, and countless dangers, including banderbears, sky pirates, and ferocious critters known as wig-wigs.

The world feels unpredictable in the best possible way, and Beyond the Deepwoods succeeds through exploration. Readers become invested because they genuinely want to know what lies beyond the next hill, river, or forest. Riddell’s illustrations further enhance the experience. The detailed black-and-white artwork brings the strange inhabitants of the Edge to life and gives readers visual rewards throughout the story.

‘The Mystery Knight’ (2010)

Image via Penguin Random House

“Every hedge knight has a bit of dragon in him.” This novella is the third entry in The Tales of Dunk and Egg. Set roughly a century before the events of A Game of Thrones, The Mystery Knight follows hedge knight Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Egg as they travel through Westeros. What begins as a seemingly simple visit to a wedding tournament gradually evolves into a dangerous political conspiracy involving rebellious factions and hidden identities.

The recent GoT spinoff show A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is great, and viewers hungry for more can check out the source material, which is just as charming. The smaller scale and lighter tone make them more straightforwardly enjoyable than some of the weightier tomes in the Westeros universe. That said, there’s still political complexity at play, particularly the lingering consequences of the Blackfyre Rebellions.

‘La Belle Sauvage’ (2017)

Image via Scholastic

“We are all subject to the fates.” The first entry in the Book of Dust saga, La Belle Sauvage returns readers to the world of Philip Pullman‘s landmark His Dark Materials series. Set before the events of Northern Lights, it focuses on Malcolm Polstead, a resourceful boy who becomes entangled in a dangerous plot involving the baby Lyra Belacqua. When catastrophic floods engulf much of England, Malcolm embarks on a perilous journey aboard his canoe in an effort to protect Lyra from powerful forces seeking to control her future.

Expectations were sky-high for this book, but, if anything, Pullman exceeded them. La Belle Sauvage is intelligent, immersive, thought-provoking, and entertaining to boot, adding new layers to an already richly realized world. The narrative momentum is impressive: mysteries deepen, dangers escalate, and the emotional stakes rise alongside the floodwaters.

‘The Wee Free Men’ (2003)

Image via CORGI BOOKS

“Crivens!” Written by the late, great Terry Pratchett, The Wee Free Men is the Discworld novel that introduces the protagonist Tiffany Aching, a sharp and practical girl living on a sheep farm who discovers that she possesses unusual magical abilities. When her little brother is kidnapped by the Queen of Fairyland, Tiffany sets out on a rescue mission with the help of the Nac Mac Feegle, tiny blue warriors who are equal parts brave, chaotic, and ridiculous.

Pretty much every Discworld book is a banger, loaded with jokes and colorful details, and the Aching saga boasts some of the author’s very best work. The fantasy elements feel fresh and inventive, blending folklore, fairy tales, and Discworld’s trademark absurdity. Familiar fantasy concepts are often turned upside down in unexpected ways. That said, there’s also a lot of heart to the story. It has a lot to say about courage, responsibility, and growing up.

‘Perdido Street Station’ (2000)

Image via Macmillan

“The city was a machine too complex to understand.” Perdido Street Station is another endlessly creative book, gleefully serving up a seemingly endless stream of weird ideas. It unfolds in the sprawling city of New Crobuzon, where scientist Isaac Dan der Grimnebulin is approached by a bird-like Garuda who has lost the ability to fly. Isaac’s attempts to solve the problem accidentally unleash a horrifying threat capable of devastating the city.

The book hooks readers through sheer imagination. The plot is fantasy meets sci-fi meets social commentary meets creature feature meets horror meets dark comedy, and New Crobuzon itself feels unlike any fantasy setting ever created. It’s crowded, dirty, industrial, politically unstable, and populated by an astonishing variety of species and cultures, including the insectoid Khepri, the destructive slake-moths, literal demons, and a god-like being known as the Weaver.

‘The Lies of Locke Lamora’ (2006)

Image via Bantam Spectra

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“Someday, Locke Lamora, someday, you’re going to f—k up so magnificently…” This one is basically a fantasy spin on a crime caper, with a rich setting inspired by Renaissance Italy. The title character is the leader of a crew of thieves known as the Gentleman Bastards, who orchestrate elaborate scams targeting the city’s elite. Locke is a fantastic protagonist: intelligent, reckless, sarcastic, and perpetually convinced he can outwit everyone around him. Watching him improvise solutions to increasingly disastrous situations provides much of the book’s entertainment.

In addition to the criminal hijinks, the book also charms with its twisty plot and awesome magic systems, all while hinting at deeper mysteries. The relationships among the Gentleman Bastards provide another powerful hook. There’s real camaraderie between Locke, Jean, and the rest of the gang. Their friendships feel genuine, leading to more than a few tear-jerking moments.

‘The Name of the Wind’ (2007)

Image via DAW Books

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“I have stolen princesses back from sleeping barrow kings.” Patrick Rothfuss‘s Kingkiller Chronicle is arguably one of the greatest fantasy series of all time, though frustratingly, the third and final volume is not yet finished. It’s a character study about Kvothe, a legendary figure whose exploits have become the stuff of myth. Now living in obscurity, he begins recounting the true story of his life, from his childhood among traveling performers to his years at a prestigious university devoted to magic.

Kvothe is one of the most intriguing characters in 21st-century fantasy, approaching every challenge with a mixture of confidence and vulnerability that makes him endlessly engaging. We know from the get-go that his life will be defined by greatness, but also great tragedy. Along the way, he discovers intricate magic systems, colorful companions, and the looming shadow of the Chandrian, mythical beings associated with death and destruction.

‘King Sorrow’ (2025)

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“The crown remembers every wound.” King Sorrow is the latest novel by Joe Hill (son of horror master Stephen King), and it’s one of his best. It’s about a group of young friends who, in a dire situation, make a deal with an evil dragon. It grants them protection and scorches their enemies, but demands that they feed it a fresh victim every year. It’s a great setup, one that Hill builds on perfectly, bringing in betrayals, shadowy government agencies, and humans who are almost as bad as the dragon itself.

The book is loaded with frights and action and monsters of all kinds, and its plot spans multiple decades, yet it always keeps the main characters front and center. They’re three-dimensional, providing some much-needed emotional realism to a very fantastical story. All in all, King Sorrow is a great combination of dark academia, horror, fantasy, and coming-of-age fiction.

News of Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO’s divorce has continued to dominate headlines, but a surprising voice has now entered the conversation.

Frankie Lombardo, Bunnie’s former husband, is speaking publicly about their relationship and making it clear he still has strong feelings for her.

His comments have sparked fresh discussion as fans try to understand the fallout from one of country music’s most talked-about splits.

Not long after reports surfaced that Jelly Roll had filed for divorce, Frankie Lombardo began sharing his thoughts online.

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The California native, who was married to Bunnie XO from 2009 to 2015, revealed that the pair still maintain regular contact despite ending their marriage years ago.

Speaking to Page Six, Lombardo claimed their connection remains unusually close.

“We talk every day,” he said, before admitting he “wouldn’t say no” to the possibility of rekindling their relationship if she ever wanted to.

He then offered an emotional explanation for why he still feels connected to his former wife.

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“She was the only woman who ever broke my heart. I feel like there’s a lot of unfinished business between us, but I might be the only one who feels that way. I love her very much. I will never do anything to hurt her. I don’t think that’s ever going to go away,” he said.

The comments immediately drew attention as they arrived just days after news of Bunnie XO’s split from Jelly Roll became public.

Bunnie XO’s Friendship With Frankie Lombardo

Lombardo has spent the past week posting several TikTok videos discussing Bunnie XO and defending her amid growing public scrutiny.

In one clip, he shared another candid admission about his feelings.

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“I will always love that girl. I can’t get away if I tried,” he said.

He also hinted that he may know more about the divorce than he is willing to reveal publicly, writing, “I know too much lol.”

During his conversation with Page Six, Lombardo described the dynamic between himself and Bunnie as unconventional but meaningful.

“We have an interesting friendship. Sometimes she still talks to me like she’s my wife and reprimands me,” he shared.

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He went on to add, “Bunnie is my best friend.”

The podcast host has previously spoken positively about Lombardo on her own platforms, and the pair’s ongoing friendship has been visible on social media for years.

Jelly Roll Addresses The End Of The Marriage

While Lombardo’s remarks generated headlines, Jelly Roll also addressed the divorce during a recent concert appearance in Saratoga Springs, New York.

The country star sought to reassure fans that the breakup was not driven by betrayal or scandal.

“Me and my wife are best friends. We will always be best friends,” Jelly Roll told the crowd.

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He also reportedly said that Bunnie would “probably be the only woman I will ever love the way I loved her” and stressed that “nobody cheated on nobody.”

Lombardo echoed a similarly respectful tone when discussing the Grammy-winning performer.

Although he admitted that he has never met Jelly Roll personally, he said he has “heard he’s a nice fella.”

The public statements from both men have painted a picture of mutual respect despite the emotional circumstances surrounding the divorce.

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Controversy Surrounds Bunnie XO’s Former Husband

Lombardo’s reappearance in the spotlight has also revived discussion about his own past controversies.

According to reports, a former partner accused him of repeated violence during their relationship. One alleged incident in December 2023 resulted in police involvement after both the woman and a neighbor contacted emergency services.

A police report stated, “It should be noted that while en route to the jail, Frankie stated that he should’ve beat her ass, beat the s–t out of her, and beat the dog s–t out of her.”

Lombardo was arrested and charged with domestic battery by strangulation. However, the case was later dismissed in 2024.

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He has strongly denied the allegations.

“I would never put my hands on a woman,” Lombardo told Page Six.

The allegations have led some observers to question his recent public comments regarding Bunnie and her divorce.

Questions Continue To Surround The Divorce Fallout

As Lombardo’s social media activity increased, some insiders questioned his motives.

One source familiar with the situation suggested he was attempting to benefit from the attention surrounding Bunnie XO’s high-profile separation.

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“He’s the kind of person who uses women … until they can’t take anymore,” the insider claimed.

Lombardo dismissed the criticism outright, responding that “that’s all bulls–t”.

For now, many questions remain unanswered regarding the end of Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO’s marriage.

Court records show the country star filed for divorce on May 18, while the couple reportedly separated on May 9.

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As fans continue searching for answers, Lombardo’s unexpected declarations have added another more intrigue to a story that was already generating intense public interest.

Sharon Osbourne recently gave fans an unexpected health update after missing a significant event honoring her late husband, Ozzy Osbourne.

The television personality revealed she had been hospitalized earlier in the week, preventing her from attending the unveiling of Ozzy’s statue at France’s Hellfest festival.

While she offered few details about the incident, the announcement sparked concern among supporters already familiar with her long and often challenging health journey.

The unveiling of a statue dedicated to Ozzy Osbourne was meant to be a memorable occasion for fans celebrating the legendary rocker’s legacy. However, one notable absence quickly caught attention.

Sharon Osbourne addressed the situation on social media, explaining why she could not attend the ceremony.

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“I’m sorry I couldn’t be at Hellfest for the unveiling of Ozzy’s statue. Unfortunately I had an unexpected trip to the hospital earlier in the week,” Sharon wrote.

Although she did not reveal the nature of the medical issue, she took the time to acknowledge those who made the tribute possible.

“A big thank you Olivier Garnier, Ben Barbaud and everyone at Hellfest. Special thank you to @philippe_pasqua_officiel for the absolutely stunning statue!” she continued.

Her message left fans relieved to hear from her directly, but many remained concerned about her wellbeing due to the lack of additional information.

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Fans Rally Around Sharon Osbourne

Supporters quickly flooded Sharon’s social media pages with messages of encouragement and recovery wishes.

Many expressed concern after learning she had required hospital treatment, while others focused on sending positive thoughts during what has already been an emotional period for the Osbourne family following Ozzy’s passing.

One fan wrote, “Get better Sharon we love you.”

Another added, “Sending lots of positive vibes … get well soon.”

A third supporter shared a longer message of encouragement, writing, “HEY SHARON! I hope you’re feeling better. And that’s an awesome statue. I wish i could see it in person! Ozzy would have loved that along with all the other outpouring of love from millions of others. Much love to you and your family!”

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The responses reflected the deep connection many fans have developed with Sharon over decades in the public eye.

Sharon Osbourne Has Faced Health Challenges Before

This is not the first time Sharon Osbourne has dealt with a serious health scare.

In late 2022, she was hospitalized following a sudden medical emergency that left many wondering about her condition. Months later, she discussed the frightening incident during an appearance on the U.K. talk show The Talk.

“It was the weirdest thing,” Sharon said. “I was doing some filming and suddenly they told me that I [passed out] for 20 minutes. And I was in hospital, I went to one hospital, they took me to another hospital, and I did every test over two days, and nobody knows why.”

The mystery surrounding that episode remained unresolved even after extensive testing.

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Earlier health battles have included a COVID-19 diagnosis in 2020 that briefly required hospitalization. Sharon has also openly discussed her past battle with colon cancer, a disease she successfully overcame and remains in remission from today.

Her willingness to speak publicly about difficult health experiences has often resonated with fans facing similar challenges.

Preserving Ozzy’s Legacy Through Technology

Despite her recent hospital visit, Sharon Osbourne has remained focused on projects designed to preserve Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy for future generations.

As The Blast reported, earlier this month, she and her son, Jack Osbourne, discussed plans to create an artificial intelligence version of the late music icon. The project is being developed with Hyperreal, a company specializing in highly realistic digital human performances.

Responding to criticism surrounding the idea, Sharon defended the decision and explained why she believes the project aligns with Ozzy’s wishes.

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“Technology moves on,” she said. “For somebody to turn around to me and say I’m doing a cash grab, no. You don’t know my husband. I know my husband. And my husband would say to me over and over: ‘How long do you think I’ll be remembered?’”

She also emphasized the family-focused purpose behind the initiative.

“[It’s something] that will pass on through our family, and it’s for our grandkids,” she concluded.

Family United Behind Future Plans

While Sharon sees the AI project as a way to preserve Ozzy’s memory, Jack Osbourne believes it also serves another purpose.

During the discussion about the initiative, he argued that technology makes such projects inevitable and that the family should be the ones guiding how Ozzy’s image is used moving forward.

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“Either we do it, or someone else is gonna do it,” he said. “And for me, it’s not about pretending he’s still alive. It’s making sure he’s never forgotten.”

For now, fans continue to await more information about Sharon’s health.

Until then, supporters remain hopeful that her recent hospital visit was only a temporary setback as she continues honoring Ozzy’s legacy and supporting her family through a period of major change.

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By Robert Scucci
| Updated 18 seconds ago

Every so often, I come across a movie that’s so downright nutty I have to tell everybody about it. 2025’s Killing Mary Sue was just added to my ever-growing list, and anybody who wants an action comedy that’s as explosive and hilarious as it is original shouldn’t sleep on this one. And if you want to know why this movie is so nutty, it’s worth knowing that the two political figures constantly at odds with each other in this film are named Weiner and Koch.

Weiner and Koch get laughs on their names alone, but our protagonist is also a literal Mary Sue. For those of you not in the know, a Mary Sue is a fictional character who’s unrealistically capable, and it’s typically considered a pejorative term geared toward the fairer sex. In the case of the young woman everybody wants to kill in this movie, she’s seemingly invulnerable, but also such a slave to her impulses in public that her family constantly has to deal with life-ruining amounts of bad press. So she’s a Mary Sue in some respects, but also a total trainwreck, which is incredibly fun to watch.

Weiner, Koch, Jake Busey, And The Murder Plot

Killing Mary Sue boasts a painfully simple premise, but it’s executed to perfection. We’re introduced to a young Mary Sue Harper (Onie Maceo Watlington), who witnesses her father get murdered by the convenience store clerk he was trying to rob. This traumatic incident shaped her personality more than she’d like to admit, and it causes problems when she grows into a young adult (Sierra McCormick) living with her mother Janine (Katie Killacky) and stepfather Bradley Weiner (Dermot Mulroney), a corrupt politician of the highest order.

The story goes like this: Mary Sue travels the world, working meaningless odd jobs for Bradley because he wants her out of his house. Bradley, who’s up for re-election, has his work cut out for him because Mary Sue is hopelessly incapable of avoiding drug binges, fights, and general havoc wherever she goes. Janine knows this, their housekeeper Carrie (Rita Rehn) knows this, and, most importantly, Anita Koch (Kym Whitley), Bradley’s political rival, knows this.

So Bradley hatches a genius plan with his campaign manager Wes (Jake Busey), which basically boils down to “have my stepdaughter assassinated.” Here’s where it becomes hilarious. Mary Sue mistakes the first assassin for a welcome-home gift in the form of a male prostitute. When she and her mother get roughed up, she accidentally kills him because she was underwhelmed by what she thought was his foreplay and wanted to show him how rough she really likes it. She strikes him in the face once, and he never gets back up.

Realizing he’s dealing with the kind of young woman who’s so clueless it’s actually dangerous, Bradley reaches out to his associate Knox (Martin Kove) for more assassins to finish the job, and pretty much the same thing happens. Wave after wave of highly trained mercenaries get wiped out by Mary Sue, who just wants to do drugs, play video games, and loaf around the house unwholesomely. It all escalates to the point of absolute absurdity.

A Total Riot

One of the reasons Killing Mary Sue is such a blast is that it never takes itself seriously. It’s a bloodbath from start to finish, and I’ll never not be amused by somebody who’s so good at what they do when it’s the last thing they actually want to be doing. Mary Sue is a total monster, and it’s beautiful to watch such an apathetic young woman lay everybody to waste without even trying. Even better, she’s snarky as hell the whole time because she really doesn’t want to be bothered while she rests before her next bogus odd job that Bradley cooked up: managing a Russian banana farm.

But what really seals the deal, outside of our protagonist, is just how hopelessly incapable Bradley is as a father figure, husband, elected official, and criminal. Across the board, he messes everything up, and if he approached his personal and professional life with even a shred of honesty and integrity, he probably wouldn’t have such a Mary Sue problem in the first place. The one thing that consistently triggers her throughout the movie is how he physically can’t even say “I love you” to her. If he had shown her even a little affection, maybe she wouldn’t be such a loose cannon who just wants to feel seen and heard by her family.

At the end of the day, Killing Mary Sue is a total riot from start to finish. It doesn’t necessarily have a John Wick-level body count, but the bodies certainly drop in similar fashion given the circumstances. Everybody, especially Bradley, keeps a completely straight face because they’re never fully in the know. They genuinely don’t understand why wave after wave of hired killers keep showing up at their home, and Mary Sue is more annoyed by the inconvenience than afraid for her life.

That dynamic alone is reason enough to fire up Killing Mary Sue on Tubi the next chance you get. If you like action comedies, this one more than delivers on its promise.

Summer House‘s Dara Levitan is single but maybe not ready to mingle after her split from costar KJ Dillard.

“Do you want to know what’s setting me off? Well, I’m single,” Dara, 33, shared on the Thursday, June 18, episode of her “Five More Minutes” podcast via Bravo and Cocktails. “That’s all we’re going to say about it because I can’t do tears this morning, and there’s no way I’m talking about it without crying.”

KJ, 28, and Dara’s romance began in summer 2025 while filming season 10 of the Bravo reality show. The pair met through mutual friend and castmate West Wilson.

Before the pair confirmed their breakup in their own words, costar Jesse Solomon accidentally spilled the beans on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen earlier this month.

Related: Who Is — And Isn’t — Returning to ‘Summer House’ Season 11?

Fans are on their toes waiting to see who will — and won’t — return for Summer House season 11. Season 10 was filled with drama as Kyle Cooke and Amanda Batula navigated their relationship woes. After deciding to call it quits after four years of marriage, Amanda quickly moved on with costar West Wilson […]

“They broke up, yeah,” Jesse, 33, said on the June 9 episode after being asked why KJ and Dara unfollowed each other on social media. “Last I heard, they were broken up. Sorry if that’s not public.”

In her latest podcast episode with cohost Carly Rivlin, Dara discussed dating alongside guest and skincare expert ⁠⁠Sean Garrette.

While Dara acknowledged that she has “no idea what I’m doing when it comes to men and love,” the Bravo star sounded off on dating apps and trends in time for summer.

When asked about hooking up with or without makeup on, Dara joked that it’s been a minute since she’s had to choose.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve had any kind of casual hookup so let’s circle back in 90 days and see where we’re at to see if I’m talking to a man,” she said.

Dara added, “I love them against my will, but I don’t like them.”

Summer House viewers had a front-row seat to Dara and KJ’s love story, which included a few ups and downs.

While appearing on the June 2 episode of the “More Life With Carl Radke” podcast, KJ revealed that he and Dara took a brief break after Summer House season 10 wrapped filming while he was experiencing mental health struggles. (KJ was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder late last year after being hospitalized for self-harm.)

He explained that Dara “broke up” with him “because she had to.”

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“Dara, I think, was gonna hang on … but that wouldn’t have been good for either of us,” KJ said. “I needed the time, because after the hospital, I went to recovery … and that’s when we broke up. Looking back, if me and Dara were dating when I was in recovery, it would have been a mess. I would have been focused on saving the relationship rather than focusing on my health. Recovery changed my life.”

Summer House is streaming now on Peacock.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Jessica Simpson is once again at the mercy of Mother Nature.

The singer’s concert in Ohio was abruptly called off this week, marking her second weather-related cancellation in less than a month. Fans were left scrambling for refunds yet again.

Jessica Simpson has been riding high on her music comeback, but the road has not been entirely smooth. A string of canceled shows now threatens to overshadow her hard-earned momentum.

Simpson’s scheduled performance at the Fraze Pavilion in Kettering, Ohio, has been canceled, according to a notice she shared on her Instagram Story. The venue cited dangerous weather conditions as the reason for the last-minute call.

“Unfortunately, due to the impeding inclement weather, the Jessica Simpson concert scheduled for Monday, June 22, has been canceled,” the notice read. Ticketholders were told refunds would be processed within 48 hours.

Simpson shared the update herself, writing alongside the cancellation notice, “I’m so sad, and I will miss y’all! I look forward to seeing y’all soon!!” She also tagged the venue directly in her post.

A Reno Show Was Axed Just Weeks Earlier

The Ohio cancellation came less than a month after a similar disruption out west. The Express Tribune reported that Simpson’s scheduled performance at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno was called off on May 30.

No detailed public explanation was widely confirmed at the time, though such last-minute cancellations are often tied to logistical challenges or scheduling conflicts. Fans quickly took to social media expressing disappointment over the cancellation.

Several ticketholders voiced frustration over travel arrangements made ahead of the show, while others expressed understanding and support for the singer. The Reno stop had been part of a limited run of dates.

Concert Cancellations Are Nothing New For Jessica Simpson

Weather and health setbacks derailing Simpson’s shows are not a recent phenomenon. Back in 2004, TODAY reported that the singer canceled a performance in Manchester, New Hampshire, while battling a kidney infection during her “In This Skin” tour.

At the time, a spokeswoman for Columbia Records confirmed Simpson was under a doctor’s care after also canceling a show in Providence, Rhode Island, just days earlier. “I can’t wait until the doctor says it’s OK for me to get back out there,” Simpson said in a statement.

More than two decades later, the singer continues to face the same unpredictable hurdles that come with a packed touring schedule, proving that career interruptions are simply part of the territory for any working performer.

The Singer Recently Reflected On What ‘Home’ Truly Means To Her

Despite the setbacks, Simpson has remained candid about how much performing means to her. The Blast reported that the singer opened up about her creative journey in an emotional message to fans earlier this month.

Simpson described how she has come to view home as “a feeling, not a place,” a sentiment that shaped her latest EP, “Nashville Canyon, Pt. 2.” She specifically referenced the track “Fade” as a turning point in her healing process.

The singer recalled writing that track nearly three years ago, during a period when she felt the course of her life had changed forever. Looking back, she said she has chosen to move through life with strength, courage, confidence, and compassion.

Jessica Simpson Thanks Fans For Believing In Her Comeback

Simpson also used the moment to express deep gratitude toward the fans who have stuck by her throughout her 15-year break from music. “Each and every single one of you that bless my heart by comin’ to MY HOME on the stage have become a major part of my journey through the pain and the joy,” she wrote on Instagram.

The singer added that their unwavering support has given her a renewed sense of purpose, especially after years of staying out of the spotlight. She admitted that stepping back on stage initially felt unfamiliar after spending so long away from touring.

Simpson’s comeback has been built almost entirely on that same fan loyalty, with sold-out stops and emotional moments defining much of her return. Even with recent cancellations testing that bond, she has continued to show appreciation publicly at every opportunity.

With two shows scrapped due to the weather in a matter of weeks, can Jessica Simpson’s comeback tour still find its way back home to the stage?

Taylor Swift’s appearance at the 2026 NBA Finals sparked backlash from some basketball fans — but New York Knicks player Jose Alvarado is all about Swiftie mania.

Alvarado, 28, exclusively told Us Weekly on Thursday, June 18, that it was “amazing” having Swift, 36, sitting courtside during Game 4 of the Knicks’ championship series on June 10 against the San Antonio Spurs.

“That’s a surreal superstar, and I was happy she was cheering us on,” the point guard said while promoting his partnership with Bacardi Rum during the post-parade celebration at Tonita’s Caribbean Social Club in Brooklyn. “And [she] seemed like she was having a good time, and we won, so even better.”

Alvarado teased, “She got to come more often,” since Swift, a longtime New York resident, seemingly brought the team good luck after the Knicks overcame a 29-point deficit and defeated the Spurs 107-106.

While Alvarado is cool with Swift coming to games, he joked that her tying the knot with Travis Kelce, a Cleveland Cavaliers fan, could cause tension.

“The house [is] gonna be divided, one side gonna be a loser, and then one side gonna be a winner,” he teased.

Kelce, 36, proposed to Swift in August 2025, and while the couple are preparing to get married this summer, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end was not by Swift’s side when she attended the Knicks game earlier this month.

Related: Taylor Swift Jokes She Was Screaming for ‘100 Percent’ of Knicks Game

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Taylor Swift has no regrets about losing her voice at the New York Knicks game. “I got home and was like, ‘You gotta stop screaming, you’re screaming too much, you’re screaming instead of talking, you’re too excited,’” Swift, 36, joked during her speech at the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony in New York City […]

Swift, however, wasn’t alone at the game. She was spotted in floor seats with longtime friends Alana Haim, Este Haim and Mariska Hargitay.

The foursome turned heads throughout the game in part because they were wearing custom T-shirts showing team support while honoring different celebrities.

Swift, for example, was wearing a “Stevie Knicks” shirt, paying homage to Fleetwood Mac icon Stevie Nicks. (Harigitay, 62, wore the same tee.)

The Haim sisters, meanwhile, donned Knickelback and Knickole Kidman shirts, which were in honor of the band Nickelback and actress Nicole Kidman.

Following the Knicks epic Game 4 win, Swift found herself at the center of controversy when some fans, celebrities and sports analysts threw shade at her by claiming she pulled focus from the team.

Related: Knicks’ Jalen Brunson Issues Message to Swifties About Monica McNutt Drama

New York Knicks captain Jalen Brunson is issuing a message to anyone still criticizing Taylor Swift’s appearance at the 2026 NBA Finals. “I just want to say something to the Swifties: She’s a really good one,” Brunson, 29, said in a postgame interview on Saturday, June 13, after winning the NBA championship. “Cut her some […]

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“I’ll tell you the one that bothered me was Taylor Swift. Come on,” actor Hank Azaria confessed on the June 11 broadcast of The Dan Le Batard Show. “I know she’s the hugest thing in the world, but we had to sit with her all through the NFL and now she’s at the Garden. Come on.”

Shannon Hart, who is married to Knicks player Josh Hart, exclusively told Us that Swift was clearly a fan, noting how invested she was in the team all night long.

“Just seeing how into the game she was, that was really cool,” Shannon, 31, said on June 12. “Jumping up and down, hugging each other.”

While the Haim sisters are from Los Angeles, Alana, 34, told Vogue on June 11 that she is also a fan of the Knicks. However, it was Swift who came up with the idea of making shirts to support the NYC team.

“I got a text from Taylor that was really the text that you want to get as an amateur screen printer. She said, ‘I want to wear this shirt to the game, can you make it for me?’” Alana recalled. “And I was like, ‘I thought you would never ask, this is my dream.’ Whenever I start out a session with a friend, I go, ‘Let’s talk about fonts, let’s talk about sizing,’ and [Swift] came up with Stevie Knicks.”

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The Knicks later won the NBA championship in Game 5, marking their first title since 1973.

“[It’s] something that you can’t really put into words,” Alvarado told Us after the historic win. “I’m a kid from the city, and I got to able to witness something that we haven’t done in 53 years, and it just brings so much joy, and everybody together.”

The athlete added, “Me experiencing [the victory] is the best feeling in the world, just to be a part of something that I can see people getting together and showing so much love and appreciation.”

By Chris Snellgrove
| Updated 8 seconds ago

The new Spider-Man: Brand New Day trailers have really emphasized how the titular hero has grown up. As he deals with a mutating body, a bevy of new villains, and even a showdown with the Incredible Hulk, one thing’s for sure: Peter Parker’s not a kid anymore. The same can be said for Tom Holland, the man behind the mask. He was only 19 when he swung into the MCU in Captain America: Civil War. Now, the actor is 30, and life has seriously changed him. Some of the changes are good, like an engagement with his Spider-Man costar Zendaya; others are bad, like his hairline trying to creep up.

This has been on my mind ever since I watched Tom Holland’s appearance on Spain’s El Hormiguero talk show. Intellectually, I know that Tom Holland is a grown man, someone closer to middle age than to his teenage years. But when the actor spoke about the topic of AI, he seemed as naive as any child. The actor said, “I feel protected” because artificial intelligence doesn’t understand emotional expression or “the difference between being happy and being sad.” While Holland spoke about the importance of creativity and passion when it comes to making movies, he also ignored a fundamental reality: as a masked action star, he might be the most replaceable actor of them all! 

Spider-Man Vs. Ultron

When he appeared on El Hormiguero, Tom Holland was very blunt about AI, something that he pointed out “doesn’t have a soul.” When it comes to generative AI, the Spider-Man actor said that, “Creativity is safe from AI because creativity has to do with the human experience.” Continuing, he said that creativity is “about emotions, it’s about understanding one another.”

The Marvel icon then waxed philosophic about the limitations of this new technology. “AI can sift through data, but it can’t understand people’s emotions. It doesn’t understand the difference between being happy and being sad.” Comparing his work to another medium entirely, Holland finished his thoughts: “The way artists paint, it’s not about what they’re copying, it’s about expressing themselves. So I feel protected.”

To be clear, I fully agree with Holland that AI is soulless and that the creative things made with it will never have the same spark as human creation. Furthermore, I agree with his stance that creativity is about sharing and enjoying what humans have to say. However, the problem is that the Spider-Man: Brand New Day star is focusing entirely on what he and other like-minded people would or would not buy, i.e., that they wouldn’t buy an AI-made product. However, Holland would be better off focusing less on what he’s not buying and more on what Hollywood is selling.

Copy And Paste Actors

Hollywood is fascinated by AI for the same reason that countless CEOs are fascinated with it: they think they’ll make more money by having to hire fewer people. This means fewer artists, effects gurus, and editors. It also means fewer actors; like, one of the big things that SAG actors went on strike for was protecting themselves from being replaced by AI. Tom Holland, bless his soul, thinks that he is safe from being replaced by this technology, but that’s just not true. If you have any doubt about that, just check out the growing legion of Spider-Man videos fans have made via AI. 

Spider-Man is particularly easy to recreate with AI because half of his movies are just action scenes involving a hero with a mask. It’s not hard to portray Holland and others unmasked, either; again, a quick perusal of existing AI fan videos proves that. Granted, all of these fan videos are nowhere close to the quality of even the worst Marvel movie. So, Holland is right that AI-generated stuff will never be as good as human-made stuff. Where he is wrong, though, is that he doesn’t think every big studio will try to use AI whenever possible, including with actors if they can get away with it, because they’re gambling nobody will notice.

Pull The Plug, Spidey

Given a choice, most moviegoers would avoid AI-assisted films. This is why some directors are calling for an AI rating system which would (much like Steam does for PC gamers) create some much-needed transparency. This would allow someone to ask themselves the big question: “do I want to pay full price for a movie they cut corners on?” Without such a rating system, though, it’s the Wild West out there. Hollywood can and will sell you discount slop at full price, with CEOs laughing all the way to the bank while the rest of us gripe about how movies have gotten so bad without knowing exactly how.  

So, Tom Holland (you are reading this, right?), it’s not enough to sit back and assume the importance of creativity and the human spirit will keep you safe from AI. If this issue really means that much to you, it would be better if you spoke out directly about the matter to fans, directors, studio heads, and so on. Of course, Marvel has already been busted using AI before, and former employees have spoken out about its usage behind-the-scenes. If the Spider-Man actor were to strongly speak out against this technology, he might just lose his cushy acting gig in the MCU. That leaves us with a depressing reminder: when one of the biggest superhero stars in the world can’t say anything more strident for fear of reprisal, it’s obvious that nobody is truly safe from AI.

Finding a summer dress that’s comfortable, flattering and easy to wear is harder than it should be. Too often, breezy dresses look shapeless, while fitted styles cling in all the wrong places. That’s why shoppers can’t stop talking about one flowy Amazon maxi that reviewers say hides the “mom pooch” and earns “many compliments.”

The dress in question is the Popvil Spaghetti Strap Flowy A-Line Maxi Dress, a colorful summer style that’s racking up more than 100 five-star ratings. Available in several vibrant prints, including a standout rainbow stripe pattern, it delivers the easy, throw-on-and-go appeal shoppers look for this time of year. Even better, it’s available for $50 on Amazon.

Get the Popvil Spaghetti Strap Flowy A-Line Maxi Dress for $55 (originally $63) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The flattering silhouette is what keeps earning praise. The A-line shape skims rather than clings, while the adjustable spaghetti straps and lightweight fabric make it an easy pick for hot summer days. One shopper called it “perfect for a cruise in the Caribbean,” noting the length “is right at my ankle” and works with both flats and wedges.

Related: Bye, Leggings! This Bestselling Skort Was Made for Hot Summer Walks

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As much as we cherish our leggings, the summer months mean making some smart wardrobe swaps — and that’s where this athleisure skort comes in. Designed with moisture-wicking material, making it a practical option for exercise and activities, shoppers can’t get enough of how good it feels. Sure, technically it’s a sports skort, but it’s […]

The fabric has also become a favorite among reviewers. “This dress is absolutely gorgeous! It is breezy and lightweight. It is extremely soft on the skin, and the colors are perfect for spring and summer,” another customer shared.

Practical details help seal the deal. The maxi dress features side pockets that are actually deep enough to use, making it an easy choice for vacation dinners, backyard barbecues, farmers market trips and everyday errands. Pair it with flat sandals during the day or dress it up with wedges and gold jewelry at night.

Reviewers continue to rave about the fit, comfort and versatility. “Can not say enough about this dress. It hugs you perfectly and looks fantastic. The pockets are [of] perfect depth and hold almost everything,” one buyer wrote.

For $50, it’s an easy way to add a flattering, compliment-worthy maxi dress to your summer wardrobe.

Get the Popvil Spaghetti Strap Flowy A-Line Maxi Dress for $55 (originally $63) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more from Popvil here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!