For most of its run, NCIS has preferred stability, with characters coming and going, but the Major Case Response Team’s structure has rarely changed. There was always a clear hierarchy, familiar faces in the bullpen, and Leon Vance overseeing everything. Season 24 may be about to break that pattern.

Wilmer Valderrama recently teased “major changes” and “major additions” coming to the long-running procedural. On the surface, that sounds like business as usual because NCIS has weathered cast departures before. But with Vance gone and several unanswered questions lingering from the Season 23 finale, the upcoming season appears poised to do something bigger than simply replacing missing pieces. For the first time in years, the series may have multiple roles to fill at once — and that could fundamentally alter how MCRT operates.

Leon Vance’s Death Leaves A Vacancy Unlike Any Other

Image via CBS

Over the years, NCIS has become accustomed to saying goodbye to agents, but directors are another matter entirely. Rocky Carroll’s Vance spent nearly two decades serving as the bridge between field work and the politics surrounding the agency. While characters like Gibbs (Mark Harmon), Parker (Gary Cole), McGee (Sean Murray), and Torres (Valderrama) handled cases, Vance occupied a position few other characters could. He was one of the show’s constants.

Replacing a field agent is relatively straightforward, whereas replacing a character who has anchored the series since Season 5 is considerably more complicated. Whoever eventually steps into that position will inherit one of the most important jobs in the franchise, and that assumes NCIS even wants another Vance.

There is no doubt from Season 23 that Gabriel LaRoche (Seamus Dever) has his own interests, and there is no evidence that he is the steady hand the MCRT needs for overall direction in the future, given his political manipulations. In fact, it seems there could be a power struggle for control in Season 24 before the dust settles.

Image via CBS

Valderrama’s comments about “major changes” and “major additions” stand out because NCIS typically favors one-for-one substitutions. When Gibbs left, Parker took over; when Abby (Pauley Perrette) departed, Kasie (Diona Reasonover) stepped into the lab. Even Jessica Knight’s (Katrina Law) arrival maintained the familiar rhythm the series had relied on for years.

Vance’s death leaves one vacancy; the fallout from the Torres and Mateo (Patrick Keleher) cliffhanger could create another. Meanwhile, Valderrama’s suggestion that multiple additions are on the way raises the possibility that CBS isn’t simply looking to expand the ensemble, which isn’t something NCIS has done often. For much of the Parker era, MCRT has operated with a leader, three field agents, Jimmy Palmer (Brian Dietzen), and Kasie, which has worked well and is precisely why any attempt to alter it would represent one of the biggest changes the show has made in years.

Murray recently reflected on the show’s history of adapting to different casts and praised Cole’s arrival as an opportunity that gave the series “real stuff to work” with. His comments serve as a reminder that change has often helped NCIS rather than hurt it.

Season 24’s Biggest Question May Be Who Joins MCRT Next

Image via CBS

At this stage, the identities of those presumed additions remain a mystery. The more interesting question, however, is what kind of characters the series actually needs. A new director seems inevitable; beyond that, however, NCIS could benefit from another field agent, which would give the team more flexibility than its traditional structure allows. It could also introduce someone from outside the agency, creating friction with Parker and forcing the team to adapt to a different leadership style.

Executive producer Steven D. Binder has been careful not to rely too heavily on Gibbs, treating the character almost as a larger-than-life figure rather than someone who can simply return and restore the old days. Meanwhile, Murray’s memories of Harmon’s gradual exit and Parker’s arrival highlight just how much the series has already evolved.

Whatever route the series takes, the decision will reveal a lot about where NCIS sees itself after more than 500 episodes. For years, the show has focused on preserving what worked, and Season 24 may finally ask a different question.

Life after divorce appeared to take an emotional turn for Jason Biggs and Jenny Mollen during a recent family outing in New York City.

Weeks after news of their split became public, the former couple reunited with their children for dinner.

Later that evening, Biggs drew attention when he appeared visibly uncomfortable, prompting concern as Mollen stepped in to support him.

The former couple was photographed together for the first time since their separation became public knowledge.

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Despite ending their marriage, Biggs and Mollen appeared determined to maintain a united front while spending time with their sons, Sid and Lazlo.

According to Page Six, the outing took place at a New York City restaurant, where the family was seen sharing a meal together.

Observers noted that the atmosphere initially appeared relaxed, reflecting reports that the pair remain committed to co-parenting and preserving a healthy relationship for their children.

News of their breakup surprised many fans when it emerged in May. After 18 years of marriage, the pair decided to go their separate ways, though representatives emphasized that the separation was amicable.

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At the time, their representative told Page Six that both remained devoted to raising their children together and navigating the next chapter of their lives respectfully.

Jason Biggs Appears Unwell During Family Dinner

The evening took an unexpected turn when Biggs reportedly began experiencing discomfort while dining.

According to eyewitnesses, the actor started suffering from indigestion during the meal. Restaurant staff reportedly brought him water in an effort to ease the symptoms, but the situation appeared to worsen as the evening continued.

Photos captured Biggs leaving the restaurant while holding his chest and keeping his head lowered. At one point, he reportedly stopped and leaned against a nearby wooden structure.

Witnesses described him appearing distressed as he paused to recover. Images showed him raising his hands above his head in what looked like a prayer position while trying to regain his composure.

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Throughout the ordeal, Mollen remained by his side, offering support and comfort as they walked together.

The images quickly drew attention online, not only because of Biggs’ apparent discomfort but also because they marked the former couple’s first public appearance together since announcing their split.

Weight Loss And Personal Changes Reshaped Jason Biggs’ Life

In the weeks following news of the separation, reports emerged suggesting that Biggs had undergone significant personal changes in recent years.

Sources claimed the actor embraced a healthier lifestyle, focusing on sobriety and overall wellness. According to those close to him, those changes altered several aspects of his life.

“And Jason’s the first to admit he’s a changed person these days, having shed a lot of weight and being proudly sober,” a source told Star Magazine. “He wants to eliminate any source of stress from his life, and it just wasn’t going to work for him, sticking in a marriage that had lost its spark.”

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Another insider suggested that Biggs’ physical transformation may have also affected his confidence.

“Jason definitely has changed since his weight loss transformation. He lost a lot of weight and it definitely helped boost his ego,” the source told the Daily Mail.

The insider further explained that the weight loss was not necessarily expected to become so dramatic.

“I don’t think he was wanting to lose that much weight but it happened and he’s proud of the results like any one who lost 40 pounds or more would be,” they noted.

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While neither Biggs nor Mollen publicly connected these changes to the end of their marriage, insiders suggested that the couple gradually evolved in different directions over time.

A Marriage That Slowly Reached A Crossroads

Jason Biggs and Jenny Mollen first crossed paths while working on the 2008 romantic comedy “My Best Friend’s Girl.”

Their relationship progressed quickly. They became engaged in January 2008 and exchanged vows just a few months later in April.

Over the years, they became known for their candid discussions about marriage, parenting, and family life. Their relationship often played out publicly through interviews, social media posts, and Mollen’s writing.

Despite their strong bond, sources suggested that time ultimately changed the dynamic between them.

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According to those familiar with the situation, there was no major scandal or dramatic fallout behind the breakup. Instead, the pair reportedly reached a point where remaining married no longer felt right for either of them.

Mollen reportedly understood the decision and believed moving forward separately was ultimately best for both parties.

Friendship Remains At The Center Of Their Future

Although their romantic relationship has ended, both appear committed to preserving the friendship they built over nearly two decades together.

Those close to the former couple insist there is little animosity between them. In fact, their recent outing seemed to reinforce claims that they remain deeply connected despite no longer being husband and wife.

An insider told PEOPLE, “They are very much connected. I have no doubt that they will remain on excellent terms.”

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That commitment reportedly extends beyond parenting. Sources say both are determined to avoid unnecessary conflict and continue supporting one another whenever possible.

According to the source who spoke with Star Magazine, the “last thing either of them wants is to wind up bickering over money or not remain friends. There’s too much mutual respect for that to happen.”

Judging by their latest public appearance, that promise appears to be holding true. Even in a difficult moment, Mollen remained at Biggs’ side, offering reassurance as he dealt with a health scare, proving that while their marriage may be over, their connection is far from gone.

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By Jonathan Klotz
| Published 6 seconds ago

The 90s were an interesting decade for Sylvester Stallone. Between Rocky V  and Stop Or My Mom Will Shoot, Stallone made a brief appearance as himself in HBO’s groundbreaking comedy series, Dream On. For years, the series was kept off streaming due to a web of licensing issues, but now it’s available on The Roku Channel. Stallone is part of the double-sized Season 2 premiere, “The Second Greatest Story Ever Told,” and well, it’s a little strange seeing a star as big as he is pop up in a sitcom cameo. 

Sylvester Stallone Plays Sylvester Stallone

Dream On fell through the cracks. The 1990 comedy series ran for six seasons on HBO, notable for being one of the network’s first original comedies, and also its copious use of swearing and nudity. It was also created by Marta Kaufmann and David Crane, the creators of Friends. That could help explain why HBO decided to roll out the red carpet for the star-studded Season 2 premiere episode. 

Sylvester Stallone appears briefly on a talk show discussing how he’s part of a movie about the life of Dr. Richard Stone, the most interesting man in the world. Dr. Stone is the new husband of Judith (Wendie Malick), the ex-wife of Dream On’s hero, Martin Tupper (Brian Benben), and also the fifth Beatle, astronaut, brain surgeon, best-selling author, and consultant to the Pope. Stallone isn’t playing Richard in the film: he’s playing Martin.

Dream On Redefined Sitcoms For The 90s

If the plot of the two-part episode sounds familiar, it’s because Dream On relishes every single Hollywood trope, but because you saw How I Met Your Mother. “The Wedding Bride” also has a movie being made about the main character’s ex, in this case, Ted’s failed wedding to Stella, which makes him look like a complete idiot. In that show, Ted’s played by Chris Kattan, so at least Martin can take some solace in that he’s played by Stallone. 

“The Second Greatest Story Ever Told” got a lot of mileage out of bringing Martin and his ex Judith to a working movie shoot, complete with even more celebrity cameos of the early 90s, most notably Robin Leech, the host of Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. There’s a running joke about the director, Sir Roland, hating every single person on the set, including the gaffer. It’s a great episode, but it also maintains the standard Dream On formula that you’ll either love or hate. 

Dream On’s opening credits explain that Martin was raised in front of the television, which means as an adult, he’s constantly going back to old black and white movie and television footage to process his emotions. The constant use of old clips is what kept the series off streaming for as long as it was, and in the span of a single conversation, there could be half a dozen quick cutaways. It’s Family Guy humor. 

After waiting for decades, Dream On is available to stream on The Roku Channel. Uncut, uncensored, and with a random, awkward Sylvester Stallone cameo included.

General Hospital spoilers for the two weeks of June 8th through the 19th shock as we see Portia Robinson’s (Brook Kerr) baby shower devolve into chaos. Plus, Liesl Obrecht (Kathleen Gati) is threatened and forced to do a bad man’s bidding.

General Hospital: Monday, June 8th – Christina’s Shocking Announcement

On Monday, June 8th, we’ve got Kristina Corinthos (Kate Mansi) asking somebody for something. So, this may be Lucas Jones (Van Hansis) as we are getting down to Kate Mansi’s last few episodes. So, be sure to watch closely.

General Hospital Spoilers: Jordan Ashford Appears at Baby Shower?

Portia asks Isaiah Gannon (Sawandi Wilson) on Monday if he can hold off for now. And I’m sure it’s something to do with Curtis Ashford (Donnell Turner). Also, next week, Jordan Ashford (Tanisha Harper) and Curtis are together and he looks all upset and gripey.

Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota) tells Cassius Faison that locating Britt is no longer a priority. That’s because Cullum kidnapped Liesl Obrecht. Also, we’ve got Laura Spencer (Genie Francis) basking in her victory as the week begins.

She is overjoyed that Lucas got that stuff out of Sidwell’s safe so that he can’t blackmail them anymore. And Laura tells Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) she won’t hide anymore.

General Hospital Spoilers: Ross Cullum Back with Threats

Josslyn Jacks (Eden McCoy) is running out of time. She is yelling on Monday, at Cullum, “What did you do to her?” when a knocked out Liesl is thrown into her little captivity room. This week, Josslyn is trying to calm a very disoriented Liesl.

Cullum’s going to threaten Liesl and make her finish Faison’s final project or else Cullum may threaten to hunt down and kill Britt. Or he may use not Nathan as a bargaining chip.

Kai Taylor (Jens Austin Astrup) worries about Trina Robinson (Tabyana Ali). She may be overwhelmed with work and planning her mom’s baby shower. Plus, she’s avoiding rehearsing for the showcase.

General Hospital: Tuesday, June 9th – Secrets and Confessions

Tuesday, June 9th, not-Nathan makes a big confession. Something’s got Sidwell on the war path. Could be the one-two punch of the Deception rejection. He’ll rage that he lost the blackmail leverage over Sonny and Laura. Plus, he lost his helicopter privileges.

We have Willow Tait (Katelyn MacMullen) caught off guard maybe by Brook Lynn Quartermaine (Amanda Setton) about Harrison Chase (Josh Swickard). In a recent interview, actress Katelyn MacMullen insisted Willow isn’t romantically interested in Chase.

Brook Lynn tells somebody that she is sorry. Maybe it’s Isaiah because of his injuries. Especially if Brook Lynn is at Portia’s baby shower and she sees Isaiah’s injuries for herself.

General Hospital: Wednesday & Thursday – Shower Chaos and Discoveries

Portia’s baby shower begins and things are tense. Curtis is going to be awful. We know Kai is on Isaiah’s side because of little Derek, but Aunt Stella Henry (Vernee Watson) will be there hopefully playing peacemaker.

Wednesday, June 10th, Portia and Curtis butt heads over Isaiah. Portia has zero sympathy about his criminal charges because Curtis has shown no remorse for attacking Isaiah.

Carly Corinthos (Laura Wright) leaps into action. Trina makes a bold decision and Willow gets a tempting offer and this may be part of Michael’s plan. Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) gets terrible news.

General Hospital Spoilers: Sonny Corinthos Caught off Guard

Thursday, June 11th, Ava Jerome (Maura West) has an attack of conscience and this may be about Ethan and her blackmail. Valentin Cassadine (James Patrick Stuart) warns Carly to be careful.

Sonny is caught off guard. Molly is impressed by Cody and Nina Reeves (Cynthia Watros) touches base with not-Nathan. And I bet she’s going to tell him Liesl is missing. I’m sure that Nina expects Nathan to be alarmed and very concerned.

Danny Morgan (Asher Jared Antonyzyn) and Charlotte Cassadine (Bluesy Burke) hatch a new plan on Thursday. And I wonder if it’s about them going to find Rocco.

General Hospital: Friday, June 12th – Decisions and Arrests

Then on Friday, June 12th, Ethan ponders his options. And Tracy Quartermaine (Jane Elliot) gives Willow a piece of her mind. Plus, a high-profile is arrested by Chase. Alexis is persuasive. And this may be her telling Kristina, go for it with medical school.

Kate Mansi said to watch on Friday to find out Kristina’s fate. Also, Brook Lynn needs Sonny’s help.

General Hospital: June 15th-19th – New Developments and Confrontations

Then the week of June 15th through the 19th, Ethan makes a decision. And Tracy watches Chase like a hawk. She’s convinced that he is being unfaithful with Willow. We’ll find out more about the high-profile arrest that Chase makes.

We could see Willow and Chase get closer and Brook Lynn getting more upset. Nina warned Willow not to give Chase that job. But if he decides he wants it, I’m sure Willow would go for it.

We’ll see what’s next for Joss and if Liesl is fighting back or has to give in and do what Sidwell and Cullum want. And we’re going see how Cassius handles seeing Liesl held hostage. Hopefully, we get an update on Rocco and Britt.

Sonny and Brook Lynn soon take action and Danny and Charlotte may be in trouble from their newest stunt.

“Wicked” co-stars Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater are reportedly no longer together. Although they were together for nearly three years, they reportedly split amicably a few months ago and plan to remain friends. As for the “we can’t be friends” singer, she is reportedly “doing great” and focused on her Eternal Sunshine tour and new album, Petal, which will be released on July 31.

Even though the “Wicked” costars have called it quits, they are reportedly still supportive of each other and plan to remain friends.

“It’s amicable, they gave lots of time and careful consideration and decided to go their separate ways,” an insider told PEOPLE magazine on Monday. “They are still friends and very supportive of one another. They have been quietly broken up for several months.”

The source went on to say that the “the boy is mine” singer is “doing great” and is focused on her career following the split. Her Eternal Sunshine tour kicked off on June 6, with tour dates in L.A. this weekend. She is also focused on her album, Petal, which will be released on July 31.

Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater Met On The Set Of ‘Wicked’

Fans might remember that the former couple met on the set of “Wicked.” The first film was released on November 22, 2024, with the second following on November 21, 2025. Grande played Glinda, the good witch, while Slater played Boq.

Rumors that they were romantically involved began in July 2023, but they didn’t make their relationship Instagram official until November 2024. They appeared at many promotional events for “Wicked” while the two films were being released.

In a 2024 interview with Entertainment Tonight, the “Side to Side” singer had nothing but praise for Slater’s work, calling him “such an amazing person.”

“He’s always adorable, and he’s so amazing in this film — he’s such an amazing person,” she said at the time. “I’m so happy people are getting to know him. My heart is very happy.”

The Former Couple Have Supported Each Other’s Careers

In November 2025, Slater said that Grande’s performance was “out of this world” in a new interview with Extra at the New York City premiere of “Wicked: For Good.”

In March 2026, Grande had nothing but good things to say about the final performance of Slater’s off-Broadway play “Marcel on the Train,” which he co-wrote and starred in.

“Congratulations on a beautiful run of this very beautiful show,” Grande wrote on her Instagram Stories on March 22, as reported by PEOPLE. She went on to say that she was “so very proud.”

Ariana Grande Released A New Single In May 2026

In May 2026, Grande gave fans a taste of her new album with her vulnerable new single, “Hate That I Made You Love Me.” In the new track, Grande sings:

“I’ve held your projections when you’ve felt so insecure / Tell me, why is it this way? / Why you so hate to see women endure? / Is it really my fault you all gave me your hearts of your own accord? / I don’t really think so.”

The singer first announced her new album back in April. At the time, she said that Petal represents “something that is full of life and growing through the cracks of something cold and hard and challenging.”

Ariana Grande Is Continuing Her Acting Career

The “Thank U, Next” singer has a busy schedule ahead of her. The Eternal Sunshine Tour kicked off on June 6 at the Oakland Arena in Oakland, California. It will continue through Tuesday, September 1, and will wrap up at the 02 Arena in London.

However, she is not leaving her acting career behind. She is set to star in the upcoming comedy film “Focker-in-Law” and also has a role in the next season of “American Horror Story.” She will also lend her voice to the animated film adaptation of the popular Dr. Seuss book, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”

In addition, she will also reunite with her “Wicked” co-star Jonathan Bailey in next year’s West End production of “Sunday in the Park with George.”

By Robert Scucci
| Updated 4 seconds ago

“Mad Max” is its own genre, and if video stores still existed, I would contact them every day until they built out a shelf that accommodates this indisputable fact. Dead End Drive-In (1986), Wheels of Fire (1985), Waterworld (1995), and The Rover (2014) all take different pages from the same playbook, and for my money, there’s nothing better than a good old-fashioned war set in the wasteland.

The Mad Max setup works exceptionally well, and can thrive on a tight budget if practical effects are applied with care and the editing does all the heavy lifting. 1986’s Future Hunters is one such movie. It is clearly rough around the edges, but it’s put together so well that you’re willing to strap in and see where it takes you.

Make sure you’ve got some extra ratchet straps on hand, because it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

To Save The Future, You Must Find The Shaft Of Destiny!

Future Hunters kicks off in the year 2025, in a post-nuclear dystopian society. At its center is Matthew (Richard Norton), the obvious stand-in for Max Rockatansky. After a run-in with the future’s warlord, Zaar (David Light), and his marauders, Matthew unearths the Spear of Destiny from a temple and is whisked back to 1986, when there’s still enough time to keep the world from collapsing. In this timeline, he meets an anthropologist named Michelle (Linda Carol) and her boyfriend Slade (Robert Patrick), who suddenly have the weight of the world on their shoulders.

With his last dying breath, a fatally wounded Matthew tells Michelle and Slade to find the spear’s missing shaft, which will complete the artifact and allow it to be used against the evil forces that be. If I tell you what happens next in Future Hunters, you wouldn’t believe me, and I don’t want to spoil this one for you. So instead, I’m just going to give you a sizzle reel of what makes this movie so great.

Michelle and Slade travel the world, leaving no stone unturned in their quest for the Shaft of Destiny. They really don’t have much to work with, but they’re whisked away to Philippine jungles and get into fights with Nazis, Mongol warriors, and dwarves. When you think they’ve had enough, they’re abducted by Amazon women and find themselves constantly at odds with Zaar, who is also looking to complete the artifact, and Bauer, the head of a Nazi expedition who happens to be searching for the shaft so it can be reunited with the Spear of Destiny.

Along the way, there’s no shortage of biker gangs and seasoned martial artists who make every step of this journey feel like an insurmountable obstacle. I don’t even want to know what the body count is here, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it neared the triple digits.

Too Many Bad Guys To Count

While I admit that Future Hunters has too many antagonists to reasonably measure with human words alone, this movie is never not fun. What it may be lacking in fight choreography, it more than makes up for with Gervacio Santos’ editing. Every frame feels deliberate, as if Santos already had a firm grasp on the technical side of cutting together a high-octane action thriller, but there’s an artistry to it, too, that cannot be overstated.

We’re not working with a lot here, but every detonation feels earned, and whenever you think the camera is going to take a break and soak in the scenery, it’s already shock-cutting to another montage of shell casings flying and bodies dropping.

It’s seriously a beautiful thing to see play out on screen. By all measures, Future Hunters is a B-movie that was likely produced for less than a million dollars. Robert Patrick commands every scene he’s in, whether he’s the badass hero of the coming wasteland or so far in over his head that he doesn’t know how to handle himself. He toes that line perfectly, and the balance is never compromised, no matter how ridiculous things get.

If you’re a fan of all things Mad Max, this is one of those imitations that strays so far from the source material that probably inspired it that it becomes a sample size of one. I’d bet you anything that if George Miller saw this one, he’d feel like his legacy was not undermined by the film, but enhanced by it.

Future Hunters takes an already over-the-top setup and pushes the envelope so far that you can’t help but admire it. It’s truly one of a kind, and deserves your attention the next time you want to trudge through the wasteland but crave a flavor that’s more wild than anything you’ve seen in this wheelhouse before.

As of this writing, you can stream Future Hunters for free on Tubi.

Bold and the Beautiful spoilers for June 8th through the 19th bring revenge as Bill Spencer (Don Diamont) rages when he hears his wife Katie Logan (Heather Tom) was slapped. Plus, Remy Price (Christian Weissmann) works to get Deacon back in his life.

Bold and the Beautiful: Monday, June 8th – New Beginnings and Old Tensions

All right, on Monday, June 8th, we have Electra Forrester (Laneya Grace) and Will Spencer (Crew Morrow) reaching a new level in their relationship. Hopefully, R.J. Forrester (Brayan Nicoletti) will leave her alone.

So, Electra and Will get romantic by candlelight at his beach house. Will says that nothing and no one will come between us. Sounds like famous last words. You’re asking for it when you say that stuff.

Brooke Logan (Katherine Kelly Lang) and Katie reach an understanding. They may agree to disagree and may want to destroy each other. The only time I recall Katie slapping Brooke was when she found out Brooke slept with Bill (once again) when they were married.

Bold and Beautiful Spoilers: Liam Spencer Stays at Logan?

Liam Spencer (Scott Clifton) tells Wyatt Spencer (Darin Brooks) the family needs him. So, Liam tries to convince Wyatt to join them at Logan. And I think he will since Darin Brooks is on contract at Bold and the Beautiful. So he’s sticking around.

We may also see more of Steffy Forrester (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) and Hope Logan (Annika Noelle) chat from Friday and things may get more heated.

Bold and the Beautiful: Tuesday, June 9th – New Couples and Secrets

On Tuesday, June 9th, R.J. and Dylan get closer. They may end up rebounding since R.J.  twirls Dylan around on the dance floor at Bikini Bar. Hopefully, they start dating and forget Electra and Will.

Bill and Katie are excited for their future. I suspect the Katie slapping incident has her and Bill even more determined. They want to crush Forrester and Brooke and Ridge. And Bill may rage about Brooke hitting his wife.

Bold and the Beautiful: Wednesday, June 10th – Fashion Designs and Workplace Worries

Wednesday, June 10th, Dylan is afraid of risking her job at Forrester Creations. It may be Dylan worried that R.J. could turn on her if things don’t work out if they date.

Next week, Hope and Deke Sharpe (Harrison Cone) lurk near the runway at Logan as they look at a mini preview of the Hope Logan collection. But Katie is front and center and thrilled with the designs she sees.

Bold and the Beautiful: Thursday, June 11th – Suspicions and Surprises

Thursday, June 11th, Ridge suspects that R.J. might have a new lady. Plus, Hope gets news that disappoints her. It could be some criticism of her and Deke’s new designs.

Singer Fanny Grayson (Elsa Esnoult) returns as a French fashion enthusiast. She might be over at Forrester to preview Eric’s new couture collection.

Bold and the Beautiful: Friday, June 12th – Love Bombing and Revelations

Then on Friday, June 12th, we’ve got Remy making a discovery. Remy looks at Deke’s sketches and says he can’t believe he’s at Logan. Remy flatters and says Deacon leveled up. Is he Sheila’s mystery roommate? We’ll see.

Steffy wants answers from Katie. She may suspect Hope is lying about her leave. And Steffy sniffing around at Logan would be bad for Hope.

Bold and the Beautiful: June 15th-19th – Collections Launch and Confrontations

Then June 15th through the 19th, Steffy may get closer to figuring out Hope’s at Logan. Looks like there’s fast progress towards the Hope Logan collection launch. And Remy may convince Deke for another chance.

R.J. and Dylan spend time together. And Brooke and Katie’s rivalry worsens. Plus, Bill may target Brooke for slapping Katie. Donna Logan (Jennifer Gareis) worries the Logans are being destroyed.

And Bill and Katie work hard to rush the launch of their new collection. They want to shock Brooke, Ridge, and Steffy. And we’ll see a showstopper featuring the big blue Hope for the Future diamond.

Young and the Restless spoilers for June 8th through the 19th, include Billy Abbott (Jason Thompson) being really upset to find out who owns Chancellor and who’s running it. Plus, Victor Newman (Eric Braeden) hits his family with a stunning business decision.

Y&R: Monday, June 8th – Victor’s Revenge Plot

So on Monday, June 8th, we’ve got Victor wanting Matt Clark (Roger Howarth) closer to Cane Ashby (Billy Flynn). With Matt’s help, Victor says he is going to crush Cane. But Matt doesn’t want to hurt anyone. Nick Newman (Joshua Morrow) is also concerned.

Victor says Matt has to make amends. Plus, Matt wants to atone with Nick after getting him hooked on Fentanyl. Finally, Matt agrees to Victor’s terms and he goes off to get settled.

Young and the Restless Spoilers: Victor Newman Reassures the Family

Adam Newman (Mark Grossman) gets caught up by Nick and is upset Matt’s living at the ranch. Nick thinks Matt seems remorseful. Victor tells Nick he’ll clear all of Matt’s criminal charges if he passes his test.

Now, Victor wants Cane gone from Genoa City. He says Matt could have escaped instead of saving Nick. So, Victor thinks this is the best way to test Matt.

Young and the Restless Spoilers: Lily Winters Puts Plan in Action

Malcolm Winters (Shemar Moore) shows up to see Lily Winters (Christel Khalil). He thanks Cane for donating and saving his life. Then, Malcolm leaves to find Holden Novak (Nathan Owens).

And Cane tells Lily that Malcolm threatened him and promises never to hurt her. Also, Lily tells Cane she wants him to run Chancellor. In the end, Cane agrees to run Chancellor for her. Billy Abbott’s gonna come unhinged about this.

Holden Novak and Claire Grace Newman (Hayley Erin) get more serious. She doesn’t care about his past with Audra Charles (Zuleyka Silver). And Claire agrees to be Holden’s date to the Shadow Room.

And Stephanie Simmons (Vivica A. Fox) tells Holden about her chief of staff offer from the hospital. He’s all for it. Claire finally gets to meet Malcolm. He asks Holden about his future and if he’d work at Winters.

But Holden says Devon Hamilton (Bryton James) and Nate Hastings (Sean Dominic) wouldn’t like that. Malcolm is sure that his son will change their minds.

Y&R: Tuesday, June 9th – Shadow Room Launch and Secrets

Tuesday, June 9th, Sharon Newman (Sharon Case) avoids Matt. Sharon’s terrified of Matt and Victor doesn’t seem to care if he gets what he wants. Noah Newman (Lucas Adams) debuts the new Genoa City Shadow Room.

Sharon’s there toasting Noah’s success. And Stephanie goes with Malcolm to the launch with Lily. Also this week, Matt asks Victor when they’ll start the plan for him to target Cane. Victor’s headed over to Beyond the Gates for a crossover.

Young and the Restless: Wednesday & Thursday – Family Dynamics and Health Scares

Then on Wednesday, June 10th, Victoria Newman (Amelia Heinle) and Kyle Abbott (Michael Mealor) make peace at the big Shadow Room launch. Plus, we’ll have Sienna refuse to back down from Audra.  Sally Spectra (Courtney Hope) at Audra’s side.

Plus, Danny Romalotti (Michael Damian) shows Christine Williams (Lauralee Bell) another side of himself at the launch, sitting with his son, Daniel Romalotti, having a good time.

Thursday, June 11th. Stephanie entrusts Nate with a secret. And Nikki Newman (Melody Thomas Scott) stands by Nick as they attend an AA meeting.

Also, Victor shocks everybody on Thursday’s Young and the Restless with a big business decision. Also, he gets a scare during the Beyond the Gates crossover. A tornado hits the club where Victor’s at a fundraiser.

Jack Abbott (Peter Bergman) is there with Kyle and Diane Jenkins (Susan Walters). Jack’s looking very disheveled from the natural disaster. But all of the Genoa City people come back from Maryland alive and well.

Y&R: Friday, June 12th – Calls and Connections

Friday, June 12th, Phyllis Summers (Michelle Stafford) calls Summer Newman. Also this week, Phyllis tells Lauren Baldwin (Tracey Bregman) on giving back Newman to Victor. Adam is watching Matt closely. And Nikki has to answer to Victor.

So Nikki’s having those migraines and runs to the doctor. But she doesn’t want to tell Victor she’s sick because she doesn’t want him back just because she’s in a health crisis.

Y&R: June 15th-19th – Fallout and Recovery

The week of June 15th through the 19th, Billy’s bothered and bitter that Cane’s running Chancellor. Also, Nikki’s got a serious health scare. After diagnosis, there’s major decisions Nikki must make quickly.

We’ll see Victor’s plan for Matt in action. Nick’s still struggling. We’ll learn more about what happened with Diane. And we’ll find out more about Stephanie’s secret and we will also find out if Matt can be trusted.

By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 11 seconds ago

These days, most Star Trek fans look back at The Next Generation as the gold standard of the franchise. Criticisms of NuTrek shows like Discovery and Starfleet Academy don’t occur in a vacuum; instead, the harshest critiques come from veteran fans who wish these newer series could be more like TNG and its spinoffs, Deep Space Nine and Voyager. Ironically, though, TNG was considered far from a perfect show when it was originally airing. The first season is notoriously bad, and the third season is decidedly hit-or-miss. Star Trek: The Next Generation didn’t achieve true greatness until Season 3, and even then, producers agonized over how to improve the show. 

For example, one frequent producer note was that The Next Generation could use more action. The series excelled at exploring moral dilemmas and wrapping everything up with a stirring speech from Captain Picard. However, it lacked the swashbuckling savoir-faire of The Original Series. Producers wanted to add more derring-do into the show, and at their behest, the writers created “The High Ground.” Unfortunately, the episode was a disaster: not only did it feature a script change that got the episode banned in other countries, but it led the writers to an unfortunate revelation. Namely, when you focus on action for the sake of action, you lose everything that makes Star Trek special!

The Warp On Terror

The premise of “The High Ground” admittedly sounds more like the plot of an ‘80s action movie than the plot of a Star Trek episode. After terrorists set off a bomb on an alien planet and abduct Dr. Crusher, she discovers that the special teleporter they are using for their attacks is slowly killing them by changing their DNA. While the Enterprise crew tries to find the enemy base, the terrorist leader boldly attacks the Enterprise; when he fails to blow up the warp core, he successfully kidnaps Captain Picard. Eventually, Riker finds the base and leads an attack in which the planetary security chief kills the lead terrorist.

One of the most fascinating things about “The High Ground” is that pretty much nobody who made it ended up liking the episode. According to Captains’ Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages, legendary staff writer and future Battlestar Galactica reboot showrunner, Ronald D. Moore, dubbed this episode “an abomination. It’s our one terrorist show. We didn’t have anything interesting to say about terrorism except that it’s bad and Beverly gets kidnapped – ho hum.” Not holding back, Moore sarcastically described how the show “[got] to have nice, big preachy speeches about terrorism and freedom, fighting and security forces versus society. It’s a very unsatisfying episode, and the staff wasn’t really happy with it.”

The Episode With Nothing To Say

Fellow iconic writer and frequent Moore collaborator Brannon Braga felt the same way. “Very rarely do we start thinking about an episode in terms of an issue. Let’s do a show about AIDS, let’s do a show about terrorism. We rarely think in those terms,” he said. “We usually think in terms of neat science-fiction twists, and that’s what sends us in the direction of what’s this story about and who’s in it?” Sadly, “The High Ground” had none of that: the day is saved by simply killing the terrorist leader and saying a few pretty words after Dr. Crusher convinces a young boy to put his gun down. 

Star Trek: The Next Generation showrunner Michael Piller agreed that this was an episode without substance. “We set out to do a show about terrorists. What was the statement we made about terrorism in the show?” he asked. Was it the point where the boy puts down the gun…? It was effective in the context of that show, but is certainly not a statement that provides any great revelation.” He then summed up his thoughts on why this failed as a Trek episode: “You must be prepared to say something new about social issues.” Obviously, “The High Ground” failed to do so, and the whole episode felt like empty action schlock. 

The Explosive Moment That Got This Episode Banned

However, nobody hated “The High Ground” quite so much as episode writer Melinda M. Snodgrass. She wanted to give the plot parallels to the American Revolution, with Picard reluctantly realizing that he had taken the side of the oppressor. But producers forced her to instead give the episode parallels to Northern Ireland’s fight for freedom against the UK.  Eventually, those producers would regret this decision: the final script has Data referencing how the reunification of Ireland was made possible through terrorist attacks. Because of this, the episode was banned from airing on the BBC until 2007, and it has never aired on RTÉ, Ireland’s national broadcaster.

Most fans consider Season 3 to be when Star Trek: The Next Generation became must-watch television. Sadly, “The High Ground” is one of the season’s most disappointing episodes, offering nothing but empty action, empty words, and an implicit terrorism endorsement from Data. This resulted in an episode hated by the fans, the writers, the showrunner, and multiple countries that banned its broadcast. None of this would have happened if the producers hadn’t demanded an action-packed episode. Fortunately, the show never dabbled in weird terrorist plots again, and The Next Generation crew became known for exploration, communication, and diplomacy instead of action.

Except for ladies’ man Riker, who’s known for his love of an entirely different kind of action!