Nicole Kidman has made some rare comments about her failed marriage to fellow Hollywood Star Tom Cruise, revealing that she was warned against getting hitched to the actor.

In a new interview, she shared candid remarks about being defiant and ignoring the naysayers, as she was “in love” with him at the time and chose only to listen to her heart.

The comments about Tom Cruise come months after Nicole Kidman finalized her divorce from her second husband, Keith Urban, and amid rumors that she’s in a relationship with a businessman.

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Nicole Kidman has revealed she was warned that marrying her first husband Tom Cruise could damage her career, and at 23, she simply didn’t care.

The Oscar-winning actress, now 59, reflected on her 1990 nuptials in a candid interview with British Vogue, admitting she was cautioned that tying herself to Hollywood’s biggest star might eclipse her own rising fame.

“I remember people saying to me, ‘OK, well this is really going to affect your career.’ I’m like, ‘I don’t care. I’m in love. I want to be married.’” Kidman told the publication. “And then I was his ‘wife,’ and they were like: ‘See, we told you.’”

“I’m like: ‘So what? I wasn’t meant to marry the man I love? Of course I’ll throw my career away. I don’t care,’” she noted about the warnings she received at the time.

The Actress Says She And Tom Cruise Were ‘Madly In Love’

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When Kidman exchanged vows with Cruise in 1990, she was a rising Australian actress with a handful of credits. That same year, she achieved her Hollywood breakthrough acting alongside him in “Days of Thunder.”

Cruise, 28 at the time, was already an A-list movie star. He had attained fame with movies like “Top Gun,” “Risky Business,” and “Rain Man.”

Speaking about the decision to marry Cruise as an upcoming actress, Kidman said, “Yeah, I got married so young. Suddenly I was 22, 23 years old and I had this huge movie star husband.”

The actress insisted that marrying the actor “seemed completely natural” for her, noting that they “fell madly in love and it was that simple.”

Kidman’s response was as bold as it was romantic. At that moment, her connection with Cruise preceded her ambition, and she made no apologies for it.

Nicole Kidman Enjoyed Career Highs After Her Divorce From Tom Cruise

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After her 2001 divorce from Cruise, Kidman’s career surged. She won an Oscar for “The Hours” in 2003, earned multiple other film and TV series awards and nominations, and has now become one of Hollywood’s most respected and bankable actresses.

During their time together, Cruise and Kidman adopted two children: Bella, 33, and Connor, 31. When they divorced, both children reportedly stayed with their father and remained in the Church of Scientology, to which Kidman does not belong.

“They are adults. They are able to make their own decisions. They have made choices to be Scientologists, and as a mother, it’s my job to love them,” Kidman said in a 2018 interview, per the Daily Mail.

According to the news outlet, neither Cruise nor Kidman were said to be present at their daughter Bella’s 2015 wedding; however, Cruise was reportedly the one who bankrolled the ceremony.

The Actress Recently Divorced Her Second Husband, Keith Urban

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Kidman separated from her second husband, country singer Keith Urban, in 2025, after 19 years of marriage.

Urban, a Grammy-winning musician who was born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, has long been one of country music’s most celebrated artists, with hits like “Somebody Like You” and “Blue Ain’t Your Color.”

The couple, who share two daughters: Sunday Rose, 18, and Faith Margaret, 15, finalized their divorce this January, with sources close to the pair noting they have maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of their children, despite the end of their nearly two-decade union.

In the wake of the split, past clips resurfaced of Urban’s cozy on-stage antics with guitarist Maggie Baugh, 26, fueling rumors of a romance between the pair. However, these rumors were quickly shut down as false.

But while Urban has yet to be linked to someone new officially, his ex-wife, Kidman, already seems to be in a budding romance with a businessman

Nicole Kidman Was Spotted With Her Rumored New Partner

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Unlike Urban, Kidman seems to already be moving on, as she was spotted last month sunning herself in Italy in the company of private equity mogul Michael Reinstein.

The duo has allegedly been enjoying a low-key romance away from the Hollywood spotlight. However, at the moment, neither party has officially addressed reports about their budding relationship.

Meanwhile, sources claim Urban is happy for Kidman and even “relieved” that she has found love again, as it would make it easier for him to be more open about his own love life.

A source told a news outlet that “the moment Nicole confirms a new romance, whether it’s with this guy she’s now linked with or someone else, Keith will be more than happy to do the same.”

Travis Barker just might have figured out the code to keeping his marriage strong, and it’s not just matching tattoos! 

The Blink-182 drummer and Kourtney Kardashian were long-term friends for years before their relationship became romantic five years ago. 

There is, however, more to their love story. It has not been without its ups and downs, but the pair have stayed together through it all, and now fans have an idea why. 

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In a recent interview, Barker spilled on the formula to his lasting relationship with Kardashian.

“We try not to ever fall asleep mad at each other,” the drummer told PEOPLE Magazine. “[We] try to resolve, even if it’s just like, ‘Hey, I thought you were going to meet me for lunch, and you didn’t text me back right away, so I didn’t know if we were meeting for lunch.’”

The Blink-182 star emphasized that it could be something as simple as taking accountability for actions and making an effort to resolve anything before going to bed. 

Barker shared that resolving issues was important so nobody went to bed feeling disconnected from the other.  In the same vein, the rock star also highlighted the importance of having space even in a relationship. 

Inside Kourtney Kardashian And Travis Barker’s Relationship Timeline 

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The drummer’s approach might be the glue keeping the marriage together, but the lovebirds’ journey to happily ever after did not happen overnight. 

After being friends for years, the duo became romantically involved in 2021. In February of the same year, the Poosh CEO made the relationship official on social media by sharing a photo on her Instagram. 

The partners kept us updated on their loving journey, from family vacations with their shared children to the rock star getting the reality star’s name tattooed on his chest. 

By September of the same year, they made their first red carpet appearance at the MTV VMAs, and a month later the dynamic couple was engaged. 

In April of 2022, the sweethearts had an LA wedding; however, they later revealed that they were married without a marriage certificate. 

They then got legally married in Santa Barbara later in May, with a third ceremony in Italy. 

Kourtney Kardashian Had A Heartbreaking Miscarriage 

Despite the fairytale whirlwind romance, the Hollywood stars are no strangers to relationship hurdles. 

In Barker’s documentary “Travis Barker: Love Is Louder Than Fear,” the celebrity lovebirds spoke candidly about the heartbreaking pregnancy loss they faced before welcoming their son, Rocky. 

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They revealed that Kardashian suffered a miscarriage in 2020, barely six months after the relationship transitioned from friendship to romance, per The Blast.

“When we lost the baby, we were devastated. We cried for days,” the socialite shared. Barker and Kardashian welcomed their first child together three years later after publicly documenting their fertility journey. 

Shanna Moakler Shares Details Of Travis Barker’s Addiction Battle 

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It seems the “Blink-182” drummer has found his happy ending, but it was not easy getting there, as he has experienced personal hurdles along the way. 

The 50-year-old’s ex-wife, Shanna Moakler, also spoke frankly in his upcoming documentary about his long battle with addiction. 

The Blast shared how the former Playboy model revealed that Barker would take up to 30 pills a day. Even Barker admitted to the severity of the addiction, sharing that close friends and family feared for his life. 

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Travis Barker’s Documentary Dives Into Past Trauma And Near-Death Experiences

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The documentary also took a deep dive into his near-death experience. 

The rock star was involved in a plane crash in 2008, which left four others dead. He suffered from PTSD and severe burns and spent three months in the hospital in Georgia. While there, he had 26 surgeries with multiple skin grafts. 

Looking back at that era, Barker described the experience as the wake-up call that forced him to quit his painkillers, sharing that it was the first thing he did after leaving the hospital. 

The 50-year-old mentioned that when he was asked if he ever went to rehab, he would reply that he was in a plane crash and that was his rehab. 

The documentary premiered at the Tribeca Festival in New York City in June and debuted on Hulu on August 13. 

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Paris Jackson has made it clear that unsolicited opinions about her appearance are unlikely to make her rethink the choices that define her. 

The “Hit Your Knees” singer recently faced criticism over her extensive tattoo collection after an outlet shared an Instagram post about paris meeting her mother for the first time. 

Rather than ignore the remark, Paris responded with a sharp joke that turned the criticism back on the person who made it.

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The exchange began after an E! News Instagram post featured a chakra-inspired tattoo running down the center of Paris Jackson’s chest. 

One commenter complimented her appearance but then criticized her tattoos, writing, “She is gorgeous, but those tattoos just make her look dirty and takes away from her look.”

Paris did not appear interested in defending her choices or explaining herself. Instead, she answered with a deliberately cheeky response, writing, “Oh no what ever will i do (i’m dirty even without the tattoos).”

The commenter continued the criticism, arguing that Paris had diminished her appearance by getting tattoos. 

“@parisjackson like I said your gorgeous and it takes away. Why did you mess with perfection, you don’t mark up something perfect,” the person replied.

Paris’s response fits with the attitude she has previously shared about her collection. She has accumulated more than 80 tattoos, many of which carry personal meaning, while others appear to have simply reflected an impulse or creative decision at the time.

Paris’s Tattoos Tell A Much Bigger Story

Paris Jackson has previously opened up about how naturally tattoos became part of her life. In an August 2022 interview with PEOPLE, she revealed that her first tattoo was an impromptu alien design. 

“It’s on my boob, it’s an alien,” she said, explaining that she got it spontaneously when she was younger. “I just wanted it — it’s kind of how they all are,” Paris said of her tattoos, adding, “I’ve done a few of my own,” the 28-year-old added.

Her chest tattoo is among her most recognizable pieces. Paris revealed the intricate chakra-inspired design in 2017 after having it inked down the center of her chest. The design represents energy points and became another distinctive part of her appearance.

However, some of Paris’s tattoos carry significance beyond aesthetics. In June 2017, she had “Applehead” tattooed in cursive across her left foot, a term of endearment associated with her late father, Michael Jackson. 

Sharing the tattoo at the time, she wrote, “With every step I take, you lift my foot and guide me forward,” adding, “Love you.” 

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Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the actress continued experimenting with tattoos, posting an Instagram photo of herself working on a squiggle-shaped design below her right pinky toe and later sharing a video of the freshly inked piece on her Instagram Stories. 

Paris Jackson Reveals More About Meeting Her Mom Debbie Rowe

The reaction to E! News’ footage of Paris meeting her mother, Debbie Rowe, for the first time was followed by the model offering a much more personal account of how that reunion actually unfolded. 

During an interview on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, Paris recalled meeting Rowe at 15 after years of being raised primarily by her father.

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She said she had started asking about her mother around age 10 or 11, but did not meet her until several years later. 

Paris remembered the encounter as surprisingly casual, explaining that she came downstairs and found Rowe sitting in the living room with her grandmother, Katherine Jackson. 

“I came in and I was just like, ‘Hey, mom.’ And she was like, ‘Hi.’ I sat down, we talked for a second, and then we went out for the day and just like hung out,” she recalled. 

Paris said the relationship eventually grew closer, particularly during Rowe’s breast cancer battle. 

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Paris Explains Why She Had No Expectations With Rowe

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Beyond describing the first time she saw her mom, Paris Jackson also explained why she believed their relationship could develop so naturally. 

Speaking on the podcast, the singer said she deliberately approached the reunion without expectations, reasoning that placing demands on a relationship could create disappointment or resentment. 

“If I walk into a relationship with expectations, [I’m] probably going to end up being maybe disappointed or frustrated or irritated or a resentment will be born or something,” Paris explained. 

Instead, she said entering the relationship without preconceived ideas created room for something genuine to develop. “And when I walk into something and I don’t have expectations, it creates this really cool space for something organic to just blossom,” she added. 

Paris also pointed to the similarities she shared with Rowe, joking about their astrological signs and saying, “She’s a [Sagittarius], so she’s got the fire, and I’m an Aries, so I got the fire. We’re very similar.” 

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Paris Jackson Calls Rowe Her ‘Clone’ In Sweet Tribute

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Before the interview, Paris had offered a much lighter glimpse into her relationship with Rowe, showing that their connection was not limited to the emotional story of reconnecting after years apart. 

For Mother’s Day in May, she shared photographs of herself with Rowe on her Instagram stories and used their striking physical resemblance as the basis for a playful tribute.

One of the pictures was a selfie of the two at a horse stable, most likely Rowe’s Painted Desert Ranch in Palmdale, Calif. “Happy Mother’s Day to the lady they used for my template during the cloning process,” she joked in the caption per E! News.

Taylor Frankie Paul has been dealt another blow in her ongoing legal case with her ex-husband, Tate Paul. According to new reports, Tate has rushed to court to make a stunning request regarding Taylor’s recent drug tests. The news of Taylor and Tate’s court battle is just part of the drama that’s surrounded the “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star all of 2026. Several reports from The Blast reveal that the mother of three had been involved in some sort of alleged domestic violence incident with her ex-boyfriend, Dakota Mortensen, leading to even more chaos.

Tate recently filed a motion with a Utah court to unseal drug test results involving his ex-wife, Taylor, according to TMZ. Tate shares two kids with Taylor, Indy and Ocean, and recently asked the court for a restraining order against Taylor over alleged misbehavior.

In the filings, Tate said he believed he should have sole legal and physical custody of their two children. As part of their ongoing custody battle, Taylor was ordered to submit to drug tests. If the results came back clean, she’d be able to have unsupervised visits with her kids. If Taylor failed the drug tests, the visits would become supervised.

Tate Paul’s Restraining Order Against Taylor Frankie Paul Was Denied

Despite filing a restraining order, a judge denied Tate’s request in early July 2026, stating that his allegations about Taylor were unsupported and inadmissible.

“As Tate himself recognizes, many of his supporting allegations are based upon inadmissible hearsay, without any corroborating evidence,” the judge wrote, according to E! News. “Many of the concerns, like the children not doing well in school and expressing sadness will require ongoing attention not remedied with an emergency order changing custody.”

Tate’s initial motion came to light while Taylor was staying in a rehabilitation center after being advised by her “mental health team.” A representative for the reality star said that Taylor is “committed to working on herself” and was focusing primarily on her “family and being a good mom.”

Taylor Frankie Paul Has A Protective Order Against Her Ex-Boyfriend

A previous report from The Blast revealed that Taylor has her own protective order against her ex-boyfriend, Mortensen, as he does against her.

The order was put into place back in April 2026 after a judge said that both of the Hulu stars, who share their son Ever, have displayed “violence” toward each other.

“I’m hoping you’re not just people who thrive on the drama and conflict. You guys have to figure out a lot here. You have to figure out how to function as co-parents,” the judge said.

Before their protective orders were put into place, a video of Taylor physically assaulting Mortensen was shared online. In the clip, Taylor not only struck and punched Mortensen, but she also launched two metal chairs at him, one of which hit her young daughter.

Mortensen released a statement shortly after, saying he was “closing an unhealthy chapter” in his life and moving forward.

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ABC Canceled Taylor’s Season Of ‘The Bachelorette’

Following the release of the video, Taylor received serious consequences, as ABC canceled her season of “The Bachelorette,” which was scheduled to air in March 2026.

“In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of ‘The Bachelorette’ at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family,” the statement read, per The Blast.

Major Advertisers Back Out Of Their Working Relationships With Taylor And ‘The Secret Lives Of Mormon Wives’

And it wasn’t just ABC putting their working relationship with Taylor on the back burner. Another report from The Blast states that Cinnabon backed out of their deal with Taylor, “The Bachelorette,” and “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.”

“Cinnabon has made the decision to terminate its collaboration with ‘The Bachelorette’ and ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,’” a spokesperson from the company said. “Recent developments and allegations surrounding the lead cast member led us to reassess this collaboration as it no longer aligns with our brand values.”

There are plenty of reasons The Iron Giant has endured as one of the most beloved animated movies ever made. Brad Bird‘s 1999 movie is funny, beautiful, devastating, and remarkably sincere about ideas that most family movies would struggle to explain without talking down to their audience. It asks what makes us who we are, whether we are bound by the purpose we were created to serve, and whether something built to destroy can decide to become something else entirely.

The Iron Giant (Vin Diesel) spends almost the entire movie trying to answer those questions without even realizing it. He arrives on Earth with no memory of where he came from or why he was sent here, leaving Hogarth Hughes (Eli Marienthal) to teach him everything from language to morality. By the end, the Giant understands exactly what he was made to be, but more importantly, he understands that he doesn’t have to be it. His entire journey can be found in six words spoken at opposite ends of that realization: “I am not a gun.” “Superman.” Five words reject the identity he was given. One word tells us the identity he chooses for himself.

“I Am Not a Gun” Is the Most Important Choice the Iron Giant Makes

For much of The Iron Giant, the Giant is essentially a child. He mimics Hogarth, learns about the world through him, and doesn’t initially understand concepts as fundamental as death. That innocence makes the discovery of what he actually is so frightening. The Giant isn’t simply capable of violence. Violence has been built into him, and we see glimpses of that programming throughout the movie. When Hogarth’s toy gun accidentally fires, the Giant instinctively reacts by activating a weapon of his own. Later, when Kent Mansley (Christopher McDonald) and the military attack him, that defensive programming takes over completely. The gentle creature Hogarth befriended disappears beneath an arsenal capable of annihilating everything around him. That is what makes “I am not a gun” so much more important than a declaration that the Giant doesn’t want to hurt anyone. Strictly speaking, he is a gun. He was created as a weapon, his body is filled with weapons, and when threatened, he has been programmed to use them.

But Hogarth has already taught him the distinction that matters. After the Giant witnesses a deer die, Hogarth tries to explain something he barely understands himself: guns kill, but death isn’t necessarily the end because people have souls. The Giant may be made of metal, but Hogarth believes he has one too. It’s a wonderfully simple way for the movie to introduce its biggest idea: there is something inside the Giant that cannot be explained by what his body was designed to do. Eventually, Hogarth gives that idea words:

“You are who you choose to be.”

“I am not a gun” is the first time the Giant truly acts on that lesson. He isn’t denying what he was built to do, he’s deciding that it doesn’t get to define him. It’s also important that the movie never gives him an easy way out. There isn’t a late reveal that the Giant was actually designed to protect people or that his destructive programming was a misunderstanding. His weapons don’t disappear once he discovers friendship. The capacity for destruction remains part of him until the very end, which makes his decision not to use it matter. But “I am not a gun” only takes his character arc halfway.

“Superman” Completes One of Animation’s Greatest Character Arcs

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Hogarth gives the Giant the answer much earlier when he introduces him to comic books. The Giant is initially fascinated by a robot he thinks looks like him, only for Hogarth to explain that the character is a villain. Then he shows him Superman. The comparison is perfect because Superman is also defined by the relationship between extraordinary power and personal choice. He could hurt people, but he chooses to save them. The Giant loves that idea before he fully understands it. By the climax, he does. Kent’s paranoia has caused the USS Nautilus to launch a nuclear missile at the Giant, despite the fact that he is standing in the middle of Rockwell. The missile cannot be recalled. If it reaches its target, everyone the Giant has come to care about will die. For once, nobody has to tell him what to do. He tells Hogarth to stay behind and flies toward the missile alone. As he climbs higher, Hogarth’s words return to him: “You are who you choose to be.” Then the Giant smiles, and declares:

“Superman.”

That single word completes everything that began with, “I am not a gun.” Superman has become an idea to him: someone powerful enough to destroy who chooses to protect instead. Faced with a weapon capable of destroying an entire town, the Giant doesn’t respond by becoming the bigger weapon. He uses all that incredible power to save everyone else. More importantly, he does it knowing what death means now. Earlier in the movie, the Giant couldn’t understand why the deer wouldn’t wake up. By the finale, he understands enough to know that flying into the missile may mean he will never come back, a sacrifice that is a conscious choice made by someone who has learned what a life is worth. That’s why The Iron Giant doesn’t need a long speech to complete his transformation. Bird has already spent the entire movie teaching us what that final word means to him. “I am not a gun” is the Giant deciding that his creator doesn’t get to determine who he is. “Superman” is the Giant deciding who does: himself. Twenty-seven years later, those six words still contain one of the greatest character arcs animation has ever given us.

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Release Date

August 6, 1999

Runtime

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86 minutes

Director

Brad Bird

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Writers

Tim McCanlies

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Nevaeh Akira has folks talking after giving the timeline another glimpse into her pregnancy, but this time, it wasn’t just the baby bump that had folks looking twice. After the mom-to-be shared a playful video showing off her moves, Tameka Foster had something to say about it, and her response quickly added another layer to the conversation.

RELATED: Video Surfaces Of Woman Believed To Be Nevaeh Akira’s Mom Reacting To Comments About Getting Her Daughter Away From Blueface (WATCH)

Nevaeh Defends Her Pregnant Body In New Post

In a video shared to her Instagram page on Wednesday, Nevaeh Akira dances and twerks to Lil Baby’s ‘Dead Fresh’ while wearing a tank top and underwear. As she records herself in what appears to be a bathroom, she shows off her moves before explaining in the caption that she was “just standing weird” and that her body is beautiful “pregnant n all.” She added, “The way I stand is because this baby eating my whole body up 🤣🤣🤣.”

Tameka Foster Shares A Message For Nevaeh Akira

Tameka Foster later came across the video on Hollywood Unlocked and took to the Instagram comment section with a message for Nevaeh Akira. “Baby girl, I love a good time as much as the next woman, but that’s a whole human being you’re carrying,” she wrote. Tameka went on to remind her that some things are “just for you and God to know about,” adding that the video could still be around for Nevaeh Akira’s child to see one day before concluding, “There’s a time and a place. 🤦🏾‍♀️🥹”

Navaeh’s Video Has Folks Split On The Timeline

Folks quickly ran to Navaeh’s Instagram comment section to share their two cents on the pregnancy video. Some said she’s carrying well and should feel free to enjoy herself, while others argued that she can do whatever she wants with her pregnancy. Meanwhile, others weren’t feeling the video at all and felt like this simply wasn’t the time for all that.

One Instagram user @thepinktea_ said, “Shoulda kept this in the camera roll 😭”

This Instagram user @pottyp_ claimed, “I can’t wait until she starts loving herself more😢”

And, Instagram user @whatyoudezire commented, “Period pooooh🔥”

Meanwhile, Instagram user @mrsqueenzz added, “BIG MAMA BIG MAMA 🔥🔥🔥”

While Instagram user @krownedmula wrote, “Carrying very well 👏”

Lastly, Instagram user @sexyface_15 shared, “Girl please sit down 😒”

RELATED: Nevaeh Akira Speaks With Police After Fans Allegedly Called Officers Following Blueface Kicking Her Into A Pool (VIDEOS)

After months of speculation and Marvel secrecy, Sadie Sink can finally openly discuss becoming Jean Grey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The Stranger Things star made her debut as the iconic mutant in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, giving audiences their first look at a new Jean Grey who could eventually become one of the central characters in Marvel Studios’ upcoming X-Menreboot.

In a new interview with Variety, Sink discussed taking on a character who has been an important part of Marvel Comics for decades.

“She’s such an iconic figure in X-Men and in comics, and I’m very excited to bring my iteration of her to life.”

However, Brand New Day introduces Jean in a very different place than longtime X-Men fans might expect.

Rather than already being a member of the X-Men, Jean is presented as a young mutant struggling with her abilities and the circumstances surrounding her. Although she serves as an antagonist during portions of the movie, Sink says she never approached Jean as an actual villain.

“In this film, they told me that I was the villain, but that you’re not actually the villain, which is how I played her.”

Sink added that she didn’t want to give Jean a traditional villainous personality because Jean herself believes her actions are justified.

That distinction appears to be an important part of Marvel’s approach to the character. Instead of introducing Jean as the established superhero audiences previously saw portrayed by Famke Janssen and Sophie Turner, Marvel has an opportunity to show how she eventually becomes that hero.

Famke Janssen, Sadie Sink, Sophie Turner

Sink explained that she viewed Jean primarily as a teenager dealing with pain and anger rather than someone who was inherently evil.

“She’s a young girl in pain.”

According to Sink, the plan was to avoid focusing on the “evil bits” and instead concentrate on Jean as an angry and hurt teenager.

That idea also connects directly to what Sink believes makes the X-Men different from many other superheroes.

“What makes the X-Men special is they are all incredibly flawed.”

Sink explained that mutants have to discover their own relationship with powers they never asked to have. Those abilities don’t necessarily make their lives easier and can instead make them considerably more difficult.

It’s an approach that could tell us quite a bit about the direction Marvel Studios intends to take with its new X-Men.

The mutants have traditionally worked best when their powers aren’t simply treated as abilities that allow them to become superheroes. Being a mutant is part of who these characters are, and learning to live with that identity has always been central to the franchise.

Jean Grey is particularly suited for that kind of story.

As one of Marvel’s most powerful telepaths and telekinetics, Jean has frequently struggled with abilities that can become overwhelming and, eventually, potentially catastrophic. Her comic book history with the Phoenix Force has made her one of the most powerful characters in the Marvel Universe.

But Marvel doesn’t appear to be rushing toward that version of Jean.

Instead, Brand New Day gives Sink the opportunity to start much earlier in Jean’s life and potentially develop the character across several movies before exploring some of her biggest comic book storylines.

Sink also revealed that some of the first people she told about landing the role were Matt and Ross Duffer, the creators of Stranger Things.

“The Duffers were some of the first few people I told.”

Sink said she wanted them to know what she would be doing after Stranger Things, and the brothers were excited about the opportunity. Their reaction carried additional weight for Sink because of their love for comics.

It’s easy to understand the excitement.

After spending years playing Max Mayfield in one of Netflix’s biggest franchises, Sink is moving directly into what could become another defining role, and potentially one that lasts for much of the next decade.

Marvel Studios is currently preparing its new X-Men movie with Thunderbolts director Jake Schreier set to helm the project. Sink’s introduction in Brand New Day now gives the MCU at least one major piece of that team before the movie arrives.

Jean Grey’s future could also introduce another important relationship.

Kit Connor has recently been reported as Marvel’s choice to play Scott Summers, better known as Cyclops. Jean and Scott have one of the most famous and complicated relationships in X-Men history, making the two characters natural candidates to become central figures in Marvel’s new mutant era.

For Sink, though, Jean’s imperfections may ultimately be what makes the character worth exploring.

Marvel has already had two cinematic versions of Jean Grey and has twice attempted to adapt the Dark Phoenix storyline. Simply repeating that journey would offer audiences little they haven’t already seen.

Starting with a younger, angry and emotionally overwhelmed Jean gives Marvel Studios something different: time.

Time to show Jean learning about her powers. Time to show her finding others like herself. Time to establish her relationship with the X-Men. And eventually, time to show how one of Marvel’s most powerful mutants becomes Jean Grey.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day may have introduced her as an antagonist, but if Marvel’s plans come together, Sadie Sink’s Jean Grey is only getting started.

NBA YoungBoy has social media talking after sharing a series of blunt messages about family, loyalty, and getting his “lick” back. The rapper’s posts sparked plenty of reactions, with some questioning who exactly he was addressing.

RELATED: Wrong Messenger? NBA YoungBoy Turns Heads After Telling Funny Marco To Never Trust A Cheating Husband (VIDEO)

NBA YoungBoy Shares Cryptic Message On His Instagram Account

BA YoungBoy recently took to social media with a series of messages that left fans wondering what was going on behind the scenes. In one post, the rapper seemingly addressed criticism of his roles as a father, son, and brother, then said he wanted his “lick” back and would apologize afterward.

He followed up with another message, apparently directed at anyone who might cross him, writing that if someone played with him, he would no longer care about them or their loved ones.

YoungBoy did not reveal who the messages were directed toward or provide additional context, leaving social media to speculate about what may have prompted the posts.

Social Media Reacts

Instagram user @love_different_xo wrote, “U can’t hurt someone who don’t care lmao make y’all comments all y’all want 😂”

Another Instagram user @mia.mackk wrote, “They do this same family feud every few years 😂”

While Instagram user @lilotinyy wrote, “He must ain’t smoke today or sum causeeee Huh ?? 😂😂”

Instagram user @shesosiyah_ wrote, “Who do he be talking to 😂”

Another Instagram user @juslisn wrote, “Kids like what we got to do with this 😂”

While Instagram user @tanaja_1 wrote, “But this y’all king.”

Instagram user @daninamorite wrote, “Well, d*** you ain’t gotta care about nobody else but least f***** care about your kids. They didn’t ask to be here.”

Another Instagram user @iiamyali wrote, “That’s why his heard swole now”

While Instagram user @johnsonkazaria wrote, “And HUSBAND YOU FORGOT HUSBAND”

NBA YoungBoy’s Posts Come After Recent Tension With His Mom

NBA YoungBoy’s latest posts come amid recent tension between the rapper and his mother, Sherhonda. The apparent family conflict follows YoungBoy’s recent interview with Funny Marco. In it, he opened up about his relationship with his mother and explained why he believes they may never speak again.

During the interview, YoungBoy reflected on how his relationship with his mother affected him emotionally, explaining that he eventually decided to love her from a distance.

“I think my relationship with my mama used to be a big part of my anger.”

He went on to explain that some relationships cannot be repaired as a person may hope. He added that he believes he and his mother will never speak again, despite still loving and caring for her.

After YoungBoy’s comments made their way online, Sherhonda appeared to respond to her son’s remarks, asking him to keep her name out of his mouth. The exchange subsequently sparked a back-and-forth between the two on social media.

Now, YoungBoy’s latest cryptic posts have fans once again questioning whether they are connected to the ongoing tension between the rapper and his mother.

RELATED: NBA YoungBoy & Mom Sherhonda Get Into A Heated Exchange After He Reveals Why He Decided To Love Her “From A Distance” (VIDEOS)

Crisp fall days might be weeks away, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start shopping with them in mind. There’s something exciting about putting together your wardrobe for a new season — thinking of outfits, trying new and trendy pieces — but there’s one downside: it can get pricey fast.

Fortunately, Amazon is full of new fall-friendly pieces that won’t break the bank, even if they look expensive. From cozy sweaters to on-trend jeans, there are so many hidden fall gems to explore. They won’t stay hidden for long, though. These must-have picks are selling fast, so add them to your cart sooner rather than later. Below, shop our favorite fall wardrobe essentials that’ll leave you excited for cooler days ahead.

13 Fall Fashion Gems From Amazon

1. Our Favorite: Soft and cozy but still lightweight, this cropped crewneck sweater will quickly become a fall staple. Ribbed hems add extra interest while the relaxed fit makes the piece super comfy.

2. Runner-Up: With a lightweight and breathable feel that makes them perfect for warm fall days, these gingham pants are more versatile than they look. The relaxed wide-leg ensures they feel like pajamas, even though they’re cute enough to wear out.

3. Comfy and Cozy: Get in on the mockneck sweatshirt trend with a minimalist option. It’s effortlessly chic, comfy and perfect for lounging or grabbing brunch. The best part? It costs less than $30.

4. Autumn Basic: Is it really fall if you don’t wear an oversized flannel button-down at least once a week? The classic pick works as a comfy layer or a lightweight jacket when it’s not too cold.

Related: 13 Quince Finds Fashion Editors Are Quietly Stocking Up on Before Fall

It might not feel like it, but fall is right around the corner. And like any savvy fashion writer, I’m stocking up on all my fall wardrobe essentials from Quince. In fact, I’m going to let you in on a little secret: countless fashion editors shop this affordable luxury brand for pieces that look designer, […]

5. Stylish Go-To: This long cardigan is the kind of piece you’ll wear again and again, whether you throw it on over jeans, shorts or a dress. It’s simple, easy and made of a soft knit fabric.

6. Cropped and Cute: Add this fun bomber jacket to your fall coat rotation. It features flouncy statement sleeves and a cropped fit that make it feel unique and stylish, plus the lightweight feel is perfect for transitional weather.

7. Casual But Chic: A textured knit design and scalloped high neck elevate this long-sleeve top, making it feel chic and dressed up even though it’s a pretty basic, casual piece. For under $20, you really can’t go wrong!

8. Office Essential: This slim sweater is comfy but office-appropriate, and looks cute with both casual jeans or dressed-up trousers. The asymmetrical hem makes it stand out too.

9. Versatile Set: This matching set features a ribbed mini skirt and turtleneck sweater for an expensive-looking, on-trend outfit. Wear the pieces together or separately — they come in rich fall hues, like burgundy or chocolate brown.

10. ‘70s Vibes: With their flared hem and large front pockets, these straight-leg jeans are retro-inspired in a good way. The soft cotton is perfectly stretchy, with a flattering tummy control panel to boot.

11. Lounge-Worthy: This striped pullover sweater comes in the cutest colors and has a relaxed and comfy fit. Plus, it’s made of the softest material. It’s one you’ll want to wear when lounging at home or going out with friends.

12. Relaxed Fit: Snag these wide-leg pants if you’re looking for budget-friendly jeans that seem expensive. They’re super flattering and so chic, with a stretchy feel that makes them easy to wear all day long.

13. Expensive Looking: Rich autumn hues and oversized metallic buttons make this simple cardigan look more expensive than it is. Button it up as a top on its own, or layer it over a summer tank you can’t get rid of.

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 –>

Alex Cooper is reportedly shutting down her drinks brand, Unwell Beverages, less than two years after entering the marketplace.

Bloomberg reported on Thursday, August 13, that Cooper’s company will release new Halloween-themed drinks later this year before ceasing “production across all of the brand’s line of beverages,” citing sources familiar with the situation.

Target, Unwell’s main distributor, is selling through its stock, according to the outlet.

Cooper and Nestlé launched Unwell Beverages as Unwell Hydration in early 2025, initially selling hydration and recovery drinks targeted to women. Last year, the brand expanded into energy drinks.

Related: Alex Cooper’s Husband Matt Kaplan Accused of ‘Wreaking Havoc’ at Unwell

A bombshell new éxposé claims that Alex Cooper’s husband, Matt Kaplan, has fostered an allegedly “toxic work environment” at The Unwell Network. “Behind the scenes, there’s this man, her husband, running around wreaking havoc and making people cry, cower [in] fear,” an anonymous Unwell freelancer claimed to Vanity Fair in a Friday, June 12, report, […]

Us has reached out to Cooper’s representative, Nestlé and Target for comment.

The “Call Her Daddy” podcast host, 31, announced her move into the beverage industry while appearing at The New York Times’ DealBook Summit in December 2024.

“What could be my first consumer product? Probably something that would make the most sense would be that it could integrate into your unwell lifestyle,” she said at the time, referencing her Unwell media company.

“Every time I went to pick up an energy drink or any type of hydration drink, it’s all catered to men,” she continued.

Related: Who Is Matt Kaplan? 5 Things to Know About Alex Cooper’s Husband

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“Call Her Daddy” podcast host Alex Cooper has been married to film producer Matt Kaplan, whom she calls “Mr. Sexy Zoom Man” on the podcast, since April 2024. The reason for the nickname isn’t just to protect their privacy — “Matt is so private, but he also loves the Daddy Gang,” Cooper told W Magazine […]

Earlier this week, Cooper’s Unwell media company announced a “strategic investment” from Patrick Whitesell’s investment firm WTSL, which valued Unwell at $500 million. Cooper cofounded the company with her husband, Matt Kaplan, in 2023.

In June, Cooper broke her silence about alleged turmoil at Unwell following a Vanity Fair exposé that accused Kaplan of “wreaking havoc and making people cry” at the company.

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“I will say that building a startup, there is so much growth that comes with that, and I am extremely proud of what we have built at Unwell,” Cooper told Wall Street Journal editor Suzanne Vranica at Journal House in Cannes, France. “I will just kind of leave it at ‘don’t believe everything that you read on the internet’ — but I think everyone knows that at this point.”

“I think if you walk the halls, there are so many people that are so happy to work at this company,” Cooper continued. “I think, unfortunately, being a woman in this industry is extremely difficult because you’re held to a completely different standard. Whether it’s a smear campaign being created for someone’s narrative, whatever it be.”

She added, “I think when you read lies about yourself to fuel something else that is an obvious situation going on, it’s hard, but I think the reason that I’ve had success in this industry is I have really thick skin, and I’m going to keep pushing forward.”