From 3-D manicures to patterned polishes, Hollywood’s A-listers have a reputation for rocking out-of-the-box nail designs.

Cardi B, Machine Gun Kelly, Dove Cameron and more stars have shocked Us with talons so fierce that we had to do a double take.

One of Cardi’s most talked about looks came in January 2023. In a carousel of photos, the rapper’s nails were elongated with acrylics and filed into a square shape. Manicurist Jenny Bui — who has worked with Cardi for over a decade — adorned her nails with colorful rhinestones in various shapes and sizes.

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

Advertisement

In 2025, Lindsay Arnold got into the holiday spirit with her red French tips, which she shared via Instagram in December 2025.

Hailey Bieber gave a glimpse of her “glow in the dark” nails, which she wears every Coachella, ahead of husband Justin Bieber’s performance at the 2026 music festival on April 11 and April 18.

Keep scrolling to see these celebrities and more wildest nail designs of all time:

Video games have come a long way since their inception in the 1970s. The first video games were very simplistic in concept, owing to the limited technology at the time. Now, though, video game developers are able to craft actual narratives in their projects, coming up with a storyline and a script as if it were a movie or a play. Like any other storytelling medium, the writing can really make or break something and is a crucial part of things.

Over the years, many video games from all genres have gained critical acclaim for how well-written they are. Whether it’s because of the layered narrative, the unexpected comedy, or the story itself, there are numerous ways in which a game might exceed expectations in the writing department. These are the most perfectly written video game masterpieces of all time, in no particular order.

‘Dragon Age: Origins’ (2009)

Image via BioWare

Dragon Age: Origins is a BioWare role-playing game set in the land of Ferelden. Ferelden is faced with peril as a cataclysmic event known as the Blight begins, meaning the Darkspawn that prowl the underground network of tunnels called the Deep Roads have started reaching the surface. Their intent is to destroy the kingdoms of humans, elves, and dwarves, prompting the revival of an ancient order known as the Grey Wardens.

In this game, players can choose their origin story, with six different opening quests to choose from. Players can also choose their party members, and must strategize to create the most efficient group of fighters possible. The story feels simple, but the dialogue is fantastic. There are so many sarcastic remarks and quips you can make, and which other characters might deliver right back. All the party members have such unique personalities and are so much fun to interact with. The depth and design of the characters in this game are absolutely unparalleled, making it one of the finest RPGs ever made.

‘The Stanley Parable’ (2013)

Image via Galactic Cafe

The Stanley Parable is a walking simulator game that can be completed in just a couple of hours, all told. Or at least, the original version can. The 2022 remake added a substantial amount of content to the game. Anyway, the game is about Stanley, an office worker who gets up from his computer one day to find that the entire building is empty. He is also accompanied by an unseen narrator, who will give instructions as if he were telling someone else a story.

You don’t have to follow the narrator’s every word, though. If you decide to defy his orders, he will adjust his dialogue accordingly. The narrator’s dialogue is excellent: snarky, clever, and often hilarious, and it’s easily the best part of the game. The narrator became the driving force for why many consider this game to be a perfect example of good writing, especially in the world of video games. The story itself is one thing, but making dialogue this consistently funny is really tough to do.

‘SOMA’ (2015)

Image via Frictional Games

SOMA is a horror video game created by the same developers as the Outlast series. In this game, you play as Simon, a Canadian man living in Toronto who signs up for a brain experiment. He falls asleep during the procedure and wakes up centuries in the future, in a hidden laboratory miles beneath the surface of the Atlantic. Stranger still, he has a shiny new robot body that he didn’t have previously. Not knowing where he is or why, Simon must escape the facility while avoiding the corrupted robots prowling the corridors.

The game seems simple, but it has a lot to say. It dives heavily into concepts of consciousness and existentialism, leaving us with one of the most profound and jaw-dropping endings in any video game ever made. The setting is unique enough, and the horror does a good job, but the dialogue and complex story are where the game is at its best. Very few other games can inspire such a sense of existential dread as this game can. The ending will leave you sitting in silence for a while, that’s for sure.

‘Spec Ops: The Line’ (2012)

Image via Darkside Game Studios

Spec Ops: The Line is actually an adaptation of Heart of Darkness, the 1899 novella by Joseph Conrad that also inspired Apocalypse Now. The original book is about Belgian colonialism in the Congo region, but Spec Ops is about American military intervention in the Middle East. Following a natural disaster, an American officer is sent into Dubai to organize the city. Instead, he implements martial law and turns the city into a war zone. Sent in to stop him is Delta Force operator Martin Walker.

The game begins like an ordinary third-person shooter, but quickly evolves into a deeply profound experience. Everything about the story is meant to horrify the player and shock them into the realities of war, unlike many video games which glorify violence. Even the loading screen tips are meticulously reasoned, posing existential questions and criticizing the player towards the end. The story emphasizes the effects of war and the trauma it breeds in individuals, critiquing imperialism. The script and story are highly detailed, all in an effort to make the game as uncomfortable as possible.

‘Batman: Arkham City’ (2011)

Image via Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

Batman: Arkham City picks up where Arkham Asylum left off. The asylum has shut down due to the incident, forcing the newly appointed Mayor, Quincy Sharp, to authorize the construction of Arkham City. Run by Professor Hugo Strange, a small section of Gotham City is cordoned off behind walls and barbed wire, serving as a mega prison for all of Gotham’s inmates. However, trouble is brewing, as is expected when all the city’s supervillains are confined together, and Batman is intent on stopping it.

The dialogue is pretty good, made better with the return of veteran voice actors Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill. The side quests are interesting, and there are plenty of familiar faces, as well as some new ones. Where the game really shines is in its overall story. Batman is pushed to his absolute limits here, and the game ends with a really gutsy death scene that nobody could have anticipated. The game also bears a plot twist that makes perfect sense and doesn’t come completely out of nowhere. In fact, keen-eyed players can even figure it out in advance if they pay attention. The game’s story is masterfully crafted, dark, gritty, and everything that fans love about the Caped Crusader.

‘Grand Theft Auto V’ (2013)

Image via Rockstar Games

Grand Theft Auto V is an enormously popular game due to its fun gameplay, but it also excels in the writing department, especially when it comes to its single-player story mode. The plot follows former bank robbers Michael de Santa and Trevor Phillips, who reunite to continue their crime spree in an effort to save Michael from death at the hands of a cartel leader. They are aided by a young upstart named Franklin Clinton, a former gang member and talented pupil.

Grand Theft Auto V is known for its comedy, especially when it comes to Trevor Phillips, described by netizens as a sociopath who commits a lot of heinous crimes just for the heck of it. He’s a fantastic character that’s never boring to watch. The other characters are pretty good too, though, especially when it comes to Michael’s dysfunctional family and Franklin’s interactions with his friend Lamar. The writing couldn’t have been more brilliant if they tried.

‘Oxenfree’ (2016)

Image via Night School Studio

Oxenfree is a side-scrolling psychological thriller adventure about five teenagers living in Washington State. During the summer, they take a trip to a remote island off the coast of their hometown to spend a night or two on the beach. While there, they hear a rumor stating that portable radios tuned to specific frequencies cause strange events in certain places. They decide to test this rumor for themselves, only to unleash temporal beings beyond their understanding.

The cast of teens is very memorable, each with a distinct personality, which is made even better by their dialogue. The dialogue in this game fully fleshes out each character, reflecting a lot about their deep-seated insecurities and their hopes and dreams for after graduation. The story is complex and intricate, as well as a little bit tragic. It’s a phenomenal game with some of the most impeccable writing in the medium.

Image via Konami

The Metal Gear series is known for having one of the most complicated narratives in all of gaming, but it’s arguably at its best with Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. This game is chronologically the first in the saga, taking place in the 1960s. At the height of the Cold War, an agent of FOX codenamed Naked Snake is sent in to prevent the Soviets from constructing a nuclear-equipped superweapon known as the Shagohod.

Like the other games in the series, the game explores the individuality of soldiers and how world governments use living, breathing humans as pawns in their war machine. Though the story is more in line with science fiction rather than reality, the message remains the same. This game is by far the most emotional in the series, with a heartbreaking ending and one of the most devastating plot twists ever conceived. Snake Eater is the best that the Metal Gear series has to offer, especially in the writing department.

‘Until Dawn’ (2015)

Image via Supermassive Games

Until Dawn is a visual novel game, so the writing has to be excellent, or else it’ll ruin the whole experience. Fortunately, the writers absolutely nailed it. The story follows eight young adults who travel to a ski lodge in Alberta, Canada, for their annual getaway. Things start normally until a masked killer begins stalking them, luring them into deathtraps and striking from the shadows. Each and every choice in this game matters and can drastically affect the fate of each character.

The writing is absolutely on point. The dialogue actually sounds realistic, which is made better by the performances of the actors, including Rami Malek. The story itself is brilliant, with a massive bombshell of a plot twist about midway through the game that floors the audience easily and is a testament to how good everything else about the game is. Considering it’s a visual novel, there isn’t a whole lot of input from the player, yet Until Dawn is still a masterpiece for the fact that the writing keeps things consistently exciting.

‘BioShock Infinite’ (2013)

Image via Irrational Games

BioShock Infinite is the third and final installment in the BioShock series, though it is chronologically the first. Instead of taking players to the underwater city of Rapture, it takes players above the clouds to the flying city of Columbia. Unlike Rapture, Columbia is still thriving and populated, though many dark secrets lurk beneath the surface. The protagonist is Booker DeWitt, a detective sent to investigate the disappearance of a woman named Elizabeth Comstock.

Like the others in the franchise, Infinite is an FPS with a magical twist. Not only can players use firearms, but they can also use Vigors, which function like spells. The plot is similarly psychological to the rest of the franchise, but the game does a bit of a better job with its dialogue since you are always accompanied by Elizabeth and are rarely alone. Booker is also capable of talking, unlike the previous two silent protagonists. The story bears many twists and turns, most of them jaw-dropping, and the game goes above and beyond with its worldbuilding, both literally and figuratively. It’s one of the most well-written games of all time, period.

Advertisement

BioShock Infinite

Advertisement

Released

March 26, 2013

Advertisement

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Language, Mild Sexual Themes, Use of Alcohol and Tobacco

Developer(s)

Advertisement

Irrational Games

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Katie Holmes has a knack for making even the simplest accessories feel like the only thing worth shopping. Whether she’s grabbing coffee, running errands or heading across town, the actress always seems to find one standout piece that quietly steals the show. This time, it’s a roomy cherry red tote that instantly makes every neutral outfit look expensive.

Holmes was spotted in New York City on July 31 carrying a cherry red tote, which she paired with a breezy collared button-down, light-wash jeans and a Louis Vuitton bag. While her exact carryall is a $725 Mansur Gavriel style, you don’t need to spend hundreds to channel the same effortlessly polished vibe. Amazon has a strikingly similar lookalike for just $18.

Get the Dreubea Faux Leather Tote Bag for $18 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The Dreubea Faux Leather Tote Bag delivers the same slouchy silhouette, rich cherry red hue and oversized shape that make Holmes’ bag so eye-catching. It also comes in olive green, light blue, cream and several other shades, but the cherry red version is the one that captures the star’s look best. Better yet, the alternative is roomy enough for everyday life without sacrificing style.

Related: Courteney Cox’s Woven Crossbody Is a Go-With-Everything Staple

Advertisement

Some handbags only work with certain outfits. However, there are styles that you instinctively reach for day after day because they look good with literally everything. Courteney Cox reminded Us why a woven crossbody bag belongs in the second category. The actress was seen last week carrying the effortlessly chic style with one of her […]

Made from soft faux leather, this tote features a magnetic snap closure, a subtle tassel accent and a spacious interior that can hold everything from a laptop and water bottle to a sweater and daily essentials. There’s also a smaller interior pocket for keeping your phone, keys or lip gloss within easy reach. It’s the kind of bag that works just as well for the office as it does for weekend errands.

Shoppers are just as impressed with the bag as we are. With more than 25,400 five-star ratings, it’s clearly become an Amazon favorite.  One reviewer called it “extremely roomy,” noting that it “will hold all your day-to-day necessities.” Another buyer said it looks “expensive and elegant,” sharing that they “received lots of compliments” each time they’ve carried it.

If you’ve been eyeing Holmes’ cherry red tote but couldn’t justify the designer price tag, this $18 Amazon find is an easy alternative. It delivers the same bold pop of color, the same roomy silhouette and the same effortlessly chic energy for a fraction of the cost. Since it’s just as cute as it is practical, it might just become the hardest-working bag in your closet!

Get the Dreubea Faux Leather Tote Bag for $18 at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

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

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –> 

Related: Jennifer Aniston’s Vacation Flip-Flops Have a $15 Lookalike on Amazon

Jennifer Aniston has a knack for making the simplest vacation outfits feel incredibly chic. During a recent getaway, the actress reminded us that you don’t need designer accessories or over-the-top trends to look polished — sometimes all it takes is a simple pair of black flip-flops. Even better, recreating the look costs just $15. The […]

Advertisement

Singer Ariana Grande is reflecting on the end of the North American leg of her “Eternal Sunshine Tour” in a heartwarming Instagram post. Her post comes days after her representative revealed that she will be taking a step back from the public eye after her European leg concludes in early September 2026.

Grande shared a slideshow of images on her Instagram with pictures from the “Eternal Sunshine Tour.” In the caption, she reflected on the performances and revealed that she had been changed for the better.

“I love you … I cannot believe that this concludes the North American leg of the Eternal Sunshine Tour,” she wrote. “I am overwhelmed with love and the deepest gratitude. thank you endlessly for the most special, beautiful, joyful and deeply fulfilling few months.”

According to Grande, she will “cherish every moment of this time” with her most loyal fans. “Thank you,” she finished, before telling the UK that she was beyond excited to see them in the coming days.

Ariana Grande Stepping Away From The Public Eye

Grande’s statement comes less than a week after her representative said she was stepping away from the public eye at the end of her European leg in early September after the ongoing scrutiny about her body.

“She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny,” the rep said, according to The Blast. “This tour has been a beautiful experience for her. She loves her fans and has loved every minute of this tour so much.”

Advertisement

Ariana Grande Says Her Upcoming Retreat Was Intentional

Ariana Grande with a speech at tonights show in reference to her break and the hate 🤍 #weloveyouariana pic.twitter.com/CB0tajXXk3

— 𝓞𝓭𝓮𝓽𝓽𝓮 (@D0LLIKE) August 4, 2026

Grande addressed the crowd at her Chicago show after the announcement about her upcoming retreat with a handwritten note, revealing her decision to step away was deliberate.

“It is something that I had decided to plan,” she said. “The announcement that was made yesterday is not a reactive or impulsive thing. It’s a decision that came from a thoughtful and empowered place.”

She also appeared to clap back at the onslaught of critical comments she’s received about her health. “No matter what noises exist out there, nothing will be able to distort my reality or be more real to me or not as real to me as this love that we share,” she said.

Advertisement

Grande Gets Support From This Celebrity

Amid the ongoing discussion about her body, Grande has received support from various public figures, including British TV personality Piers Morgan.

“I’ve no idea what’s going on with @arianagrande, but I do know, after spending a random evening with her in a Beverly Hills restaurant a few years ago, that she’s a genuinely great person: intelligent, funny, engaging, and of course, supremely talented,” he wrote online, per The Blast.

He went on to say that people should be kinder to people in the spotlight, noting that fame and notoriety can be a lonely place for some.

“So, I urge all the trolls currently making her life a misery with this constant chuntering about her appearance to back off and give her the space she needs to sort herself out,” he finished.

Grande’s Family Reportedly Asked Her To Take A Break

According to another report from The Blast, Grande’s planned break also comes after her family reportedly “begged” her to slow down to care for herself.

“We have asked her to take a break. Actually, we’ve begged her, like a lot. A lot, a lot,” an insider said. “Not like a day or two, but a break break. She is not well. She is anxious and unhappy. She doesn’t sleep enough, doesn’t eat enough.”

Advertisement

The insider went on to say that Grande’s closest family and friends were concerned and worried about her safety, adding that they want the “Victorious” alum to focus on herself to get back to a “happy and healthy” place.

The best World War II movies of the last century typically feature heroic stories of battle and conquest, survival despite insurmountable challenges, and honorable figures fighting against injustice. And it’s no surprise that Richard Attenborough‘s 1977 war drama A Bridge Too Far stands out as one of the most realistic and ambitious World War II films ever made, and now it’s streaming on Tubi and Pluto. Upon its release, however, it was not universally lauded. In his scathing review, Roger Ebert asks, “Why make a movie about total defeat and stupidity?” And yet, that is the reason why A Bridge Too Far stands out among the rest. The film captures the scale, complexity, and failure of an operation by the Allied forces to surprise their enemies.

A Bridge Too Far did not match the success of Steven Spielberg‘s seminal classic Saving Private Ryan, but its epic storytelling, nuanced perspectives, and historical authenticity ensure its place among the greats. It’s an unapologetic tale of the triumphs and failures of war with a commitment to depicting war’s horrors. These are portrayed by a massive ensemble cast of A-list stars of its time, drawn from Europe and the United States. And now you can watch it for free on Tubi.

‘A Bridge Too Far’ Is Based on the True Story of the Allied Forces’ Botched Operation

Adapted from historian Cornelius Ryan‘s book of the same name, A Bridge Too Far is about the Allied forces’ ambitious, ill-fated Operation Market Garden, a plan designed to end World War II by capturing key bridges in the Nazi-occupied Netherlands. Executed in September 1944, the operation was the largest airborne assault in history, with 35,000 soldiers being flown from England and dropped behind enemy lines. Attenborough’s picture faithfully reconstructs this strategy through three main perspectives: the Allied forces, comprising the British, American, Dutch, and Polish paratroopers; Dutch civilians; and German soldiers. The film is an interplay of hope and chaos in war. The confidence of the military generals led by the British General Montgomery fails to align with the realities of those on the frontlines. William Goldman‘s screenplay highlights how these top soldiers ignored intelligence and underrated their opponents, leading to the total disaster that Roger Ebert terms “stupidity.”

With a star-studded ensemble cast that mirrors the film’s sprawling narrative, including Sean Connery, Michael Caine, Robert Redford, Anthony Hopkins, and Gene Hackman, A Bridge Too Far is a history class that shows that war is not only horrific for soldiers but also takes a toll on civilians as well. For instance, a moment in the movie shows a woman going about her business when she suddenly has unexpected soldiers as guests, with one telling her, “I’m awfully sorry, but I’m afraid we’re going to have to occupy your house.” Other scenes depict civilians caught in the line of fire, as well as the carnage of soldiers on the ground. It’s unflinching in its portrayal of war, with graphic images that leave an impression. Upon its release, it had to be edited in some destinations before being screened.

‘A Bridge Too Far’ Is a Cinematic Triumph Despite Its Flaws

Filmed on location in the Netherlands, A Bridge Too Far is a visual triumph that succeeds in part due to its effort at being authentic. Germans speak German, the Dutch speak Dutch, and even the Americans and the British are distinct in their speeches and accents (including Sean Connery in his Scottish accent). Attenborough’s attention to detail, like having tens of airplanes in the sky and thousands of parachutes with stuntmen dropping, makes the film breathtaking. While it has been criticized for some of its aged, bland effects, the battle sequences are gritty and immersive. In its near-three-hour length, criticized by some, it transports you to the chaos of the battlefield. This realism wasn’t lost on veterans and critics alike, many of whom praised its accurate portrayal of the operation’s scale and its complexity.

Comparable to Christopher Nolan‘s Dunkirk, the film rarely gives the impression of a central character leading the plot. A Bridge Too Far eschews traditional lead characters for ensemble storytelling that reflects the collective effort and sacrifice of war. General Montgomery, who developed the strategy, for instance, is a physically absent character in the film. Each of the many other characters seems to be fighting individual wars that only converge on the bigger war at hand. However, unlike Dunkirk, which condenses its narrative into a tense and focused runtime, A Bridge Too Far is focused on the failed operation’s epic scale. This approach, while it may not be emotionally stimulating, depicts the rawness of war itself.

Decades after its release, A Bridge Too Far demands patience but rewards viewers with an unparalleled depiction of WWII’s triumphs and tragedies. It’s a film that doesn’t glorify war but instead captures its chaos, futility, and humanity. If you are a fan of sprawling combat, this is definitely your movie.

Advertisement

A Bridge Too Far

Release Date

Advertisement

June 15, 1977

Runtime

175 Minutes

Advertisement

Writers

William Goldman, Cornelius Ryan

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Joan Jett is canceling multiple concerts amid her recovery from back surgery.

“Following a recent injury, Joan Jett has undergone orthopedic surgery on a fractured vertebrae and will begin the necessary healing process,” read a statement shared via the rocker’s Instagram Story on Wednesday, August 5.

After speaking with her doctors, Jett, 67, will no longer be able to perform at her two September show dates: one in Costa Mesa, California, on September 5 and the other in Louisville, Kentucky, on September 24th.

“While Joan hates to disappoint fans, she will be taking this time to focus on physical therapy and healing,” the statement continued. “She’s looking forward to delivering tremendous concerts for many years to come.”

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a fractured vertebrae — also known as a fractured spine — is when a break or collapse occurs in one of the 33 bones making up the spinal column. In some cases, a fractured spine can be caused by major trauma from a fall or car crash or from weakened bone density due to osteoporosis. Jett did not reveal any details about what caused her injury.

Recovery time for a spinal fracture is three months without surgery. For those who get the procedure, the recovery time is longer. It can take six weeks just to recover from the surgery plus an additional few months for the spine to heal, per the Cleveland Clinic.

Jett has been on the road since May. The rockstar recently finished up multiple shows in Europe and was gearing up to return stateside.

“Thanks for the summer love Europe, can’t wait to come back 🖤,” she wrote via Instagram on August 3 alongside a compilation of videos from her various shows.

Related: Pink Rang in 2026 From a Hospital Bed After Neck Surgery: What to Know

Pink rang in 2026 from a hospital bed, sharing on Instagram that she was getting “two new shiny discs in my neck” and that “rock ‘n’ roll is a contact sport.” This appears to be the second time the 46-year-old has had the procedure. In a February 2023 Variety interview ahead of her Trustfall album, […]

Earlier this year, Jett opened up about how it has been challenging to recover from touring as she’s gotten older.

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

“[I’ve been touring] every year of my life since I’ve been in a band,” she said in a June interview with The Telegraph. “So the touring I don’t mind. It’s the traveling that’s an ass-kicker, I’ll tell you. As I get older, it’s not easy to recuperate as when I was in my 20s.”

Jett added that connecting with fans has been a main reason why she keeps performing.

“Especially these days, [when] we need it more than ever … We can all finally be one for a moment, as clichéd as that sounds. But it’s true,” she reflected. “When you can lose yourself in that moment… it’s not about thinking about what’s going to happen. You just do it. You just be it.”

Former Disney star Jake T. Austin recently informed his Instagram followers that he was disappointed he wasn’t invited to be part of the “Wizards of Waverly Place” reboot alongside Selena Gomez and David Henrie.

His statement comes days after Disney revealed that the sequel, “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,” which premiered in 2024, would conclude after its third season concluded in August 2026.

Austin, who played Max Russo in the original series, said that he was first asked to reprise his role in a “Wizards” reboot back in 2020.

He explained that he was “100% in.” However, “the powers that be” decided to go in a different direction.

“To all the Wizards fans, just wanted to say for the record how disappointed I am to have not been included in the spinoff,” he wrote online.

The “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” reboot focused primarily on David Henrie’s character, Justin Russo, and his family. In the series, he welcomes a young wizard into his home and helps her learn more about magic and controlling her powers.

Austin said that while he wasn’t involved in the series, he wasn’t holding on to any hard feelings.

“Even though I wasn’t involved, I still have nothing but love for my former castmates and wish them continued success. Thank you to all the fans who watched over the years. The show wouldn’t be what it is without your endless support,” he finished.

David DeLuise Throws Shade After Learning ‘Wizards Beyond Waverly Place’ Is Concluding

Austin wasn’t the only original cast member with something to say about the ending of the show.

On Instagram, David DeLuise, who played Max, Alex, and Justin Russo’s father in the original series, commented on a clip and appeared to throw a bit of shade.

“It would not be over the OG wizards were really there,” he wrote. “Missed opportunity.”

Advertisement

In addition to DeLuise, Dan Benson, who played Zeke during the show’s first run, also voiced his disappointment about the reboot and slammed Henrie for ruining the series.

Dan Benson (Zeke) comments about “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place”:

— “There was so much potential for a Wizards reboot and it turned into the failed David Henrie show” pic.twitter.com/ZTw4afdpyO

— Selena Gomez Updates (@SGchartupdate) August 6, 2026

“It’s just heartbreaking because there was so much potential for a Wizards reboot and it turned into the failed David Henrie show,” he wrote. “People say I’m just bitter I didn’t get invited back, but I’m actually just sad for the fans. WoWP changed my life forever; I’ll always be grateful.”

Advertisement

Jennifer Stone Didn’t Believe She’d Appear In The ‘Wizards’ Reboot

Jennifer Stone reveals David Henrie told her it didn’t make sense for her to appear in ‘Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,’ explaining that the show focused on a different family and that Selena Gomez only makes guest appearances. pic.twitter.com/FdmnkwjiKx

— Selena Gomez News (@SELENAT0RSARMY) August 6, 2026

Jennifer Stone, who played Harper in the original series, makes a cameo in the series finale of “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.” And while she was happy to have a small role in the series, she revealed that she was caught off guard when she was asked to return.

“When Wizards Beyond first came out, I had a conversation with David, and he was kind of like, ‘Hey, if it makes sense down the line, maybe you’ll be on for an episode.’ So I kind of, to be honest, mourned it and was like, ‘Okay, I put Harper to bed like 15 years ago. She can live back in the original show,’” Stone told Deadline. “I was pleasantly surprised when I got the call to come back.”

Harper shared that Henrie, who reportedly had a lot of creative control over the series, didn’t want to dwell in the past by having previous characters return, adding that the focus was on a new family and a new generation of Wizards.

Advertisement

So, learning that her character would appear in the series, even if it were for a limited part, was “so cool on multiple levels.”

“One, it got to entertain the ‘what if’ in this alternate reality, if that had happened. And, two, I love that not only have the characters matured, but the relationship has, too,” she said.

Henrie Was Excited To Reunite With Selena Gomez For A Reboot

Back in 2024, Henrie revealed he’d be more than willing to partner with Gomez, who was the lead of the OG series in the early 2000s, to bring “Wizards” back to the small screen.

According to a previous report from The Blast, he said that the cast was like “family” off-camera, so reuniting would feel natural. “I would love to do a reboot. I think it’s just about the idea and the when and how and all of that,” he said.

Disney Has Rebooted Other Shows As Well

Disney’s “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” reboot isn’t the first early-2000s sitcom that the network has brought back to life.

Before the new magical series, Raven-Symoné led the “That’s So Raven” spinoff “Raven’s Home,” while Kyla Pratt starred in the “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder” reboot on Disney+.

Advertisement

The book-to-television pipeline is very much alive. From the steamy hockey sensation Heated Rivalry to the recent heist hit Lucky, many of today’s hit TV shows wouldn’t exist without the books that became their foundations. The same is true for fantasy, a genre that has long been a goldmine for some of television’s biggest successes.

George R. R. Martin‘s world continues to come alive with House of the Dragon, while J. R. R. Tolkien‘s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is still going strong. But those are far from the only fantasy stories making the jump to the small screen. From a trip through academic hell to a deadly, video game-inspired dungeon crawl, here are the fantasy books to read before their TV adaptations arrive.

‘Katabasis’ (2025)

Image via Harper Voyager

Grad school’s a living hell, and it’s even worse when the devil’s got your doctorate. Katabasis follows Alice Law, a Cambridge postgraduate who practices a dangerous form of magic. After a botched spell seemingly kills her adviser, Professor Jacob Grimes, and sends his soul to Hell, Alice sacrifices half her remaining lifespan to journey into the underworld and bring him back—all while hoping to secure the recommendation letter she desperately needs. Things only get more complicated when her academic rival, Peter Murdoch, insists on tagging along for the same reason.

Academia is one tough avenue, but it’s especially exhausting in graduate school. For those trying to make it in academia, people know all too well the validation required from senior researchers and professors that could make or break your name in an already competitive department. Katabasis, then, is a critique of these intellectual institutions. There is a glorification of giving your all to intellectual pursuits, but when the pursuit of knowledge isn’t paired with soul or ethos, that endeavor only eats you alive. As of now, Katabasis is currently in development at Amazon MGM Studios, with The Walking Dead showrunner Angela Kang attached as the project’s showrunner and writer.

‘The Dark Tower’ series (1982–2012)

Image via Donald M. Grant, Publisher

Often described as Stephen King‘s answer to The Lord of the Rings, The Dark Tower saga follows the legendary gunslinger Roland Deschain as he journeys across the magical realm of Mid-World in search of the mysterious Dark Tower, the structure said to hold the multiverse together. In this reality, time is non-linear, and it’s the reason why nations vanish without a trace. Running across eight novels, it’s arguably one of King’s most experimental works — a cornucopia of fantasy, horror, sci-fi, and American Old West elements. The Dark Tower would ultimately serve as a foundation that connects other works in the Kingverse, including Salem’s Lot, Cujo, and IT.

After years of failed attempts to bring The Dark Tower to television, Mike Flanagan‘s adaptation is finally picking up steam. Earlier versions from J. J. Abrams, Damon Lindelof, and later Prime Video with The Walking Dead‘s Glen Mazzara all fell through, but Flanagan explained that the project is “moving,” that “We’ve got a lot of scripts done for it,” and that it’s now “a priority.” That’s especially exciting because The Dark Tower is the one series that truly ties everything together. Those who want to understand the world of King can read The Dark Tower series as a starting point into the author’s already intimidatingly massive writing portfolio.

‘The Atlas Six’ (2020)

Image via Tor Books

The first in the BookTok dark academia trilogy, The Atlas Six follows six exceptionally gifted magicians, handpicked by Atlas Blakely, to compete for a place in the Alexandrian Society, the world’s most prestigious secret organization. Reminiscent of The Umbrella Academy, they live together in a secluded London estate for a year, studying lost magical knowledge and the mysteries of space, time, and consciousness while proving they deserve initiation. However, the candidates soon discover a shocking truth: only five of them can join the Society, meaning one must be eliminated. While that’s happening, a rival faction called the Forum is determined to make the Society’s closely guarded knowledge available to the world.

The competitive nature of The Atlas Six turns the story into a ticking pressure cooker where everyone is trying to prove they’re the best of the best. While each magician has incredible powers, those abilities aren’t the only weapons in their arsenal. Every conversation is loaded with hidden agendas, mind games, and shifting alliances, making it hard to tell who can actually be trusted. But beneath all that rivalry is a group of people who were gifted—or maybe cursed—with extraordinary abilities, and the one thing they all crave is genuine human connection. Instead, their powers only push them further apart. On top of that, the book keeps you wondering whether the Alexandrian Society really wants to help these magicians reach their full potential or if it only sees them as tools to further its own elitist intellectual agenda.

‘Dungeon Crawler Carl’ (2020)

Image via Ace Books

Advertisement

Nothing screams fantasy more than Dungeon Crawler Carl, which completely revolutionizes the modern literary format in the age of video games. The self-published work follows former Coast Guard veteran Carl and Princess Donut, his ex-girlfriend’s pampered cat, after Earth is destroyed by a powerful interstellar corporation. As two of the few survivors, they are forced into the World Dungeon, an eighteen-level death game akin to The Hunger Games or Squid Game, where every battle is livestreamed across the galaxy for entertainment. Along the way, the pair fight monsters, bosses, and even gods while leveling up, collecting loot, and completing quests.

There’s much to boast about with Dungeon Crawler Carl. For starters, the book series popularized LitRPG, a literary genre that incorporates traditional storytelling with video game mechanics like experience points, level progression, inventory systems, and quest logs. Even if audiences aren’t fans of video games, anyone can relate to the main character’s struggle as he is trapped in a sick system that feeds off human suffering as someone else’s entertainment. The only way to rebel is by showing compassion, which is exactly what Carl does for the other survivors he meets along the way. Set for adaptation under the guidance of Seth MacFarlane, and having amassed 14 million readers, it wouldn’t be surprising if Dungeon Crawler Carl would be a massive TV hit.

‘Fourth Wing’ (2023)

Image via Red Tower Books

Advertisement

An 18-week New York Times bestseller, Fourth Wing is a must-read for fans of House of the Dragon. The story follows Violet Sorrengail, a frail 20-year-old who has spent her life training to become a scribe until her tough mother orders her to join Basgiath War College’s deadly Riders Quadrant instead. Surrounded by cadets who see her as an easy target, Violet has to rely on her wit to stay alive. Against all odds, she bonds with not one but two dragons, unlocking incredible powers. But as she discovers long-buried secrets about her kingdom, Violet must question everything she thought she knew before war changes her world forever.

In true Hunger Games fashion, Violet and the cadets of Basgiath War College are thrown into a brutal, win-or-die environment. But while she lacks physical strength, she more than makes up for it with her intelligence and quick thinking. With Prime Video officially adapting Fourth Wing into a series, produced by Michael B. Jordan‘s Outlier Society, there’s never been a better time to dive in. Jordan has already promised fans that they’re “making sure that this is going to be an exciting show that delivers on all of the things the fans want and some of the things that they won’t be expecting either.”

Advertisement

Fourth Wing

Advertisement

Network

Prime Video

Advertisement

Showrunner

Meredith Averill

Directors

Advertisement

Lisa Joy

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Dua Lipa doesn’t just eat well when she travels. She builds entire trips around where she’s going to eat.

“Everything is based around food,” Lipa told the Dish Podcast in 2024. “I think about the trip, and then I think about the food and I start putting it in the diary.”

She’s also not interested in keeping her best food spots to herself. “I’m not gatekeeping,” she added. “I’m sharing, I’m tagging the restaurant.”

That openness led to a partnership between her media platform Service95 and Google Maps earlier this year. The result was a curated list of her favorite places to eat around the world, spanning international snacks, late-night food runs and destination-worthy dining across three continents.

Here’s a closer look at every spot on Lipa’s global food list.

Related: Dine Like a Star! Celebrity Restaurants and Hotspots in NYC

Dining with the stars! New York City is home to some of the hottest restaurants in the world — and our favorite stars have taken notice. From casual eateries to elegant fine dining, there are so many different restaurants that numerous celebrities have visited. When the stars eat out, most restaurants that come to mind […]

Advertisement

Dua Lipa’s Best Restaurants and Late-Night Snacks in Europe

Lipa’s European picks lean toward long-running local institutions and late-night cravings. Several of her best food spots on the continent are tied to a specific time of day, whether that’s a long lunch in Barcelona or churros after midnight in Madrid.

• Cañete, Barcelona: An old-school tapas restaurant known for Iberian ham, white anchovies and cold drinks. Lipa recommends it for a leisurely lunch.
• Beigel Bake, London: A 24-hour Brick Lane staple open since 1974. Her order is the salt beef beigel, ideally around 2 a.m.
• Can Gourmet Eivissa, Ibiza: A local shop stocked with cheese, cured meats and bread for picnics or late-night snacking. Lipa describes it as the quieter, more authentic side of Ibiza.
• Proper Pizza, Prishtina: A lively pizza spot with quality crust, good toppings and a dining room full of energy.
• Chocolatería San Ginés, Madrid: A historic churrería serving customers since 1894. Lipa calls its churros with hot chocolate one of the world’s great food rituals, best enjoyed after midnight.
• Julius Ernst, Berlin: A relaxed brunch spot known for strong coffee and beautiful pastries. Lipa says it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve earned your morning.

What connects these picks is character. Every restaurant has a clear identity and a specialty worth traveling for. They also reveal that Lipa’s food recommendations aren’t just about what to eat but when to eat it.

Dua Lipa’s Favorite Food Spots in the U.S.

Lipa’s two American selections skip the polished celebrity dining rooms in favor of classic Americana. Both are the kind of places where you can show up late and stay as long as you want.

• Dino’s Bar & Grill, Nashville: A classic dive bar with cold beer, a jukebox and the kind of atmosphere that keeps you around all night.
• Montague Diner, New York: An unpretentious late-night spot that delivers nostalgic New York comfort food at any hour.

These picks say a lot about what Lipa values in the best restaurants she visits. Neither is flashy. Both feel deeply tied to their cities. Dino’s captures Nashville’s late-night music energy while Montague Diner delivers the around-the-clock spirit New York is known for.

Dua Lipa’s Must-Try International Foods in Tokyo, Singapore and Bangkok

Lipa’s Asian picks are some of the most memorable on her list. They range from a no-menu bar in Tokyo to a Michelin-recognized street food legend in Bangkok, and they show her love of global food at its most adventurous.

• Narukiyo, Tokyo: A no-menu restaurant where the owner speaks with each table and begins serving dishes diners didn’t order. Lipa says the unpredictability is the entire point and that you have to surrender to it completely.
• Maxwell Food Centre, Singapore: A celebrated hawker center Lipa calls “a true Singaporean haven.” The variety of stalls makes it a destination unto itself.
• Raan Jay Fai, Bangkok: A Michelin-recognized street food restaurant where chef Jay Fai cooks over charcoal in ski goggles. It stays open until the food runs out. Lipa says the crab omelette is not to be missed.
• Haawm, Bangkok: A restaurant centered on grilled meats, sticky rice and bold sauces. Lipa describes it as the kind of meal you’re still thinking about on the flight home.

Bangkok is the only city that appears twice on the list, which speaks to how deeply Lipa connects with its food scene. Together, these picks prove that her best restaurants aren’t defined by price or prestige but by flavor and experience.

Dua Lipa’s Love of Food Goes Beyond Restaurant Lists

Lipa’s enthusiasm extends well past tagging restaurants on Instagram. She’s also known for championing unexpected flavor combinations.

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

“I get vanilla ice cream, and I put olive oil on it and sea salt,” she told BBC Radio 1 in 2023. “So many people that I’ve shown it to, I’ve brought to the dark side.”

Her food interests have crossed into her music career too. She celebrated the end of her Radical Optimism Tour in 2025 with a temporary taco shop in Mexico City called Taquería La Dua. The pop-up featured specialty tacos inspired by her songs, including a pork rind Houdini Taco and a cheesy beef Radical Optimism Taco.

Related: America’s Top Star-Studded Restaurants, From The Corner Store to Craig’s

The red carpet isn’t the only place to spot an A-lister. If you want to experience an exciting and unexpected celebrity sighting, certain restaurants are where you’ll want to be. You don’t have to be a respected food critic to know the hottest spots, though. We’ve done our due diligence to discover the top 10 […]

From international snacks discovered on tour to late-night comfort meals in New York, Dua Lipa’s approach to eating mirrors her approach to sharing: generous, curious and never gatekept. Her Service95 list isn’t just a collection of food recommendations. It’s a window into how one of pop’s biggest stars experiences the world, one meal at a time.