The fantasy genre has brought to life some of the most celebrated and enchanting experiences in cinematic history, with each era of film history having its own selection of genre-defining fantasy masterpieces. From all-time classics of Hollywood’s classic era like The Wizard of Oz to massive blockbuster juggernauts like The Lord of the Rings trilogy, fantasy will continue to be a pathway for exceptional filmmaking brilliance. The 2020s have been no different when it comes to impactful fantasy filmmaking, although only a select few fantasy films have managed to achieve genuine perfection in their execution and delivery of the genre’s greatest strengths.

Whether it be stylish and intelligent renditions of classic fantasy stories or brilliantly crafted original stories, each of these fantasy films has a sense of magic and brilliance imbued within them to make them otherworldly in their scope, tone, and execution. More than any other films this decade so far, these fantasy films show that the genre is still as strong as ever, able to create exceptional and masterful cinematic masterpieces just like the days of old.

5

‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’ (2022)

Image via Netflix

Guillermo del Toro has stood as one of the defining architects of exceptional 21st-century fantasy filmmaking for a while now. His original offerings in The Shape of Water and Pan’s Labyrinth are often celebrated as some of the most beautifully striking fantasy films ever made, as his reputation is exceptionally upheld in the 2020s by his exceptional stop-motion adaptation of Pinocchio. The film acts as this exceptional blend of the timeless elements of the original story with del Toro’s distinct dark gothic style, creating something that both aligns with the original novel and feels like its own wholly unique experience. Especially with so many other Pinocchio movies that were released at the same time as this film, the exceptional brilliance of this film stood out that much more as the best adaptation of the material since the original Disney masterpiece.

The film absolutely ramps up the fantasy elements of the already classic fantasy story, adding in elements of the afterlife and repeated lives that this seemingly immortal Pinocchio experiences. Del Toro’s dark and dreary world-building also finds its way to this adaptation, with the film taking place against the backdrop of Italy during the rise of fascism and the ruthless hardships felt by many during the film. However, even with its darkest and most painful story beats, the film manages to stay upbeat and relatively family-friendly, thanks in great part to the masterful stop-motion animation, standing up there with some of the most visually striking in the entire medium of feature-length stop-motion. Even those who aren’t familiar with del Toro’s distinct style of fantasy filmmaking will find a lot to enjoy in his adaptation of Pinocchio, as its masterful exploration of the classic story still holds up tremendously in the years following its release.

4

‘Petite Manan’ (2021)

Image via NEON

One of the greatest difficulties that modern fantasy films face is that it is so much simpler to just remix or further adapt already existing stories and fairy tales, rather than create something new that can live up to the same level of recognition or emotional weight as these ingrained classics. This is even more of the case when it comes to films that attempt to replicate a fairy-tale tone and energy, although this difficult task isn’t impossible, as French director Céline Sciamma followed up her romance masterpiece, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, with Petite Maman. This distinct love letter to the fairy tales of old feels sweet and heartwarming in a way that is simply not often seen from many contemporary fantasy films. Gone is the sense of self-awareness and overwhelming focus on craft and spectacle, instead telling a simple yet beautiful story about family, the differences and growth that come with age, and dealing with grief and loss over time.

The film follows a young eight-year-old girl Nelly (Joséphine Sanz), who is still dealing with the confusion and sadness caused by the death of her beloved grandmother. As Nelly is brought to her mother’s childhood home during their process of moving things out of this place, overwhelmed with bittersweet memories, she spends the time exploring the woods surrounding the area. While in the woods, she finds an unexpected friendship with a mysterious girl of the same age, with their unlikely friendship sending Nelly on a fantastical adventure that gives her a greater understanding of her loss and her connection to her family. Like many great fairy tales of old, Petite Maman‘s greatest strength comes from the inherent messaging and insightful feel-good elements that come from its distinctive twists, with its heartfelt love and passion feeling like the cinematic equivalent of a warm hug.

3

‘Puss in Boots: The Last Wish’ (2022)

Image via Universal Pictures

During the 2000s, Shrek was a fantasy icon that was largely inescapable within the genre, taking part in a multitude of acclaimed blockbusters and adding a distinct edge of satirical wit to the fantasy genre in the process. While the franchise had largely been dormant throughout the 2010s, it made an unexpected return with spinoff sequel Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, with this film surpassing all expectations that a long-dormant sequel to a spin-off that had a mixed reception could actually be amazing. The original Puss in Boots was far from bad, but Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, by comparison, stands as some of the greatest work that DreamWorks Animation has ever released and the undeniable height of the Shrek franchise. The film sees classic fantasy legend Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas) embarking on a journey to find the mythical Last Wish, hoping to restore his nine lives after he has been brought to his last life, and on the run from a deadly, seemingly unstoppable foe.

It uses the fairy tale crossover elements that were a tool for parody in previous films and creates a dynamic world and story of acceptance and finding happiness within life, even while being aware of its eventual end. However, it still maintains the distinct sense of wild humor that made previous Shrek films so entertaining, especially when it comes to massively entertaining side characters like Jack Horner and Goldilocks and the three bears. The animation is also exceptionally mesmerizing, employing a distinct usage of stylized animation that makes the animation pop on-screen and feel that much more dynamic and entertaining. It has helped the film achieve overwhelming praise not just as an all-time great fantasy masterpiece of the 2020s, but also as one of the defining animated masterpieces of the 2020s.

2

‘All of Us Strangers’ (2023)

Image via Parisa Taghizadeh / © Searchlight Pictures / Courtesy Everett Collection

The immediate thought process that comes to mind in the fantasy genre is that of fantastical creatures and pure magic on-screen. However, fantasy filmmaking and storytelling can be much more grounded than the most extravagant concepts out there, instead decisively honing in on a few fantasy elements to amplify the emotional pull and weight of the film as a whole. All of Us Strangers is the absolute best example of this type of mellow, mature fantasy drama, utilizing the fantasy genre to explore the pain and emotional weight of coming face-to-face with emotions long since considered dormant. The film follows Adam (Andrew Scott), a lonesome man living an isolated life in London, who has an unexpected surge of emotion after a chance encounter with his mysterious neighbor, Harry (Paul Mescal). This encounter ends up sending Adam on a journey of remembrance of his fractured past, giving him the chance to find peace with the past and hopefully pave the way for a greater future.

All of Us Strangers proves to be much more intricate and emotionally charged than the traditional fantasy film, largely keeping most of its most direct fantasy elements hidden until their slow reveal during the film. However, these fantasy elements, while undeniably important to the narrative and essence of the film, largely feel complementary to the real strength and impact of the film, which comes from these dynamic performances and exploration of emotional depth. It’s the type of film that hits the audience right in the feels, allowing them to reminisce on their own life and placing elements like family, love, and grief all into perspective. It’s certainly a heavier and more difficult film compared to the vast array of comparatively simple fantasy films, but that makes the experience of witnessing its emotionally intelligent filmmaking all the more fulfilling and impactful as an audience member. It’s unmatched in terms of its perfectly paced emotional depth within the fantasy genre and deserved so much more love and recognition than it received when it released.

1

‘The Boy and the Heron’ (2023)

Image via Studio Ghibli

Few filmmakers have laid claim to as many fantasy masterpieces as Hayao Miyazaki, as nearly every fantasy film that he’s directed has been an absolute masterpiece that makes the most of striking fantasy worlds and breathtaking animation. While this means that it isn’t particularly surprising that his return to feature filmmaking after spending a decade in retirement, The Boy and the Heron, is yet another emotionally striking fantasy masterpiece from the director. However, even among the massively celebrated fantasy films that Miyazaki has brought to life over the years, The Boy and the Heron is a masterful swan song that plays to his greatest strengths and acts as one of his greatest, most beautiful films. It plays into the inherent strengths and elements that have made Miyazaki’s storytelling so mesmerizing for generations while also commenting on said elements within his own storytelling, reflecting upon a life of fantasy storytelling and paving the path for a future without him.

It plays out as if Miyazaki had never stopped creating films after The Wind Rises, with him weaving together an intricate tale of fantasy brilliance and emotional weight like it’s second nature. The world and fantasy creatures are as beautiful and striking as ever, and the characters are exceptionally memorable and filled with layers of depth and symbolism. The Boy and the Heron is distinctly aware of its own stature and the legacy that it is tasked with upholding, and as a result, sets out to create about as classic a sprawling fantasy world as imaginable. It continuously finds new ways to delight and charm the audience throughout the runtime, utilizing the strengths of the fantasy genre to their absolute highest strengths with its combination of classic conventions of Miyazaki’s storytelling and new evolutions of his style for the modern age. The film’s importance and impact on fantasy and anime filmmaking grow more and more with each passing year, as it feels largely impossible for this film not to be among the conversation as the absolute best of fantasy in the 2020s when the decade finally ends.

Objectively good movies aren’t always what you need for a night in. Sometimes, you need a flavor of wondrously bad and beautifully outrageous to finish off your week. Funnily enough, mythological adaptations have plenty of these kinds of films, where the legends are so terribly misshapen in the film that you can barely recognize them, and the costumes look like they were borrowed from the local LARP group. Examples like Clash of the Titans or The Mummy are victims for this, yet we keep coming back to them for all their quirks.

2016 gave us another mythological mishap, Gerard Butler‘s Gods of Egypt, which once again proves that we love movies labeled as “bad,” as it surged on the Netflix charts almost a decade later. But this re-imagining of Egyptian myths, which is streaming for free on Pluto TV, was also steeped in dire controversy, from a poor critical reception, a huge loss at the box office, and a ruthless rant by the Australian director, Alex Proyas. Afterward, Proyas would take a huge break from Hollywood, but the film’s delayed popularity begs the question: was it really deserving of all this drama?

‘Gods of Egypt’ Faced Huge Controversy Before It Was Released

There’s one thing that should be an easy win for mythological adaptations, yet it is also the one thing that is commonly overlooked or neglected: appropriate racial casting. Before the film was even released, the trailer and movie posters, which featured a mainly white cast in a supposedly Egyptian legend, sparked immense controversy online. It set a negative tone ahead of the film’s release, and it didn’t help that the CGI, green screens, and overall effects in the trailer were less-than-well-received, especially since Gods of Egypt is a big-budget fantasy saga. But Proyas admitted that their “casting choices should have been more diverse” and apologized for it alongside Lionsgate.

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However, upon release, the situation did not improve for Gods of Egypt, as it flopped at the box office, opening with $14 million domestically and $24.2 million internationally after a budget of $140 million, and was met with dismal critical reception, only garnering 15% on Rotten Tomatoes. Unfortunately, what added fuel to the fire was Proyas’ social media tirade against critics, blaming them for spending their time “trying to work out what most people want to hear” rather than properly evaluating the film on its own merits. His strongly worded post added to the heated debate around the film.

Bear in mind, Gods of Egypt was a memorable blip in Proyas’ directorial career, but it certainly doesn’t define it. Beforehand, he had directed a string of successful and widely applauded films, some of which have turned into cult classics, including 1994’s The Crow, 1998’s Dark City, and 2004’s I, Robot. Although he did take a step away from Hollywood after the fantasy flop, he eventually resurfaced in 2020 with a horror short called Mask of the Evil Apparition and later founded the Heretic Foundation in 2021, a studio that focuses on independent films.

Is ‘Gods of Egypt’ Truly Irredeemable?

Apart from the drama that precipitated around the film, is Gods of Egypt really deserving of it? In her review, Collider’s own Perri Nemiroff identified it as a film that couldn’t even fit into the “so bad, it’s good” category, but its resurgence in 2025 perhaps says otherwise. Maybe the film needed a decade to stew, where all the mythological inaccuracies, from the costumes to the blatant brush over Egyptian culture, can be enjoyed with a laugh now. With Gerard Butler taking on a muscles-on-muscles godly role, transforming into a jackal-like creature, and trying to usurp his brother’s throne (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau), it’s a fun romp into a golden, shiny world, as long as you treat it as a fantasy without roots. With swords, sorcery, waxed chests, and bizarre CGI creatures with glowing eyes, it’s an easy movie to chuck on in the background for a chuckle — even if that wasn’t the film’s intention.

Gods of Egypt is definitely marred with controversy and should have had a more thoughtful approach to casting, storytelling, and Egyptian mythology, but it still echoes the ambition of a director who simply missed. While the film does take itself too seriously at times, it seems that the audience certainly isn’t, making it the perfect film to turn your brain off to.

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Gods of Egypt

Release Date

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February 25, 2016

Runtime

127 minutes

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Director

Alex Proyas

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Young and the Restless 2-week spoilers for April 20 – May 1, 2026 anticipate Billy Abbott‘s (Jason Thompson) baby shock and Adam Newman (Mark Grossman) in a complete and total panic for very good reason.

Young and the Restless Spoilers Monday, April 20th: Sally’s Pregnancy

On Monday, April 20th, we have Billy worrying while Sally Spectra (Courtney Hope) stresses over getting another positive pregnancy test. Looks like she’s taken a few. Billy is a little upset, not about the baby, but that Sally turned to Audra Charles (Zuleyka Silver) first before him.

But Sally insists she was trying to protect Billy. And Sally tells him she wanted to find out if she was actually pregnant before she told him. And Billy wants Sally to depend on him and turn to him. Well, maybe he needs to be more dependable then, right? But Billy says he loves Sally. You know, obviously this is a big baby shocker, but also she’s scared because she lost her baby Ava and that just about broke her. And she knows how hard it was on Billy when he lost Delia. And you know, Billy says he is all in if Sally wants this, even though she’s scared.

Y&R Spoilers: Lily Answers Holden’s Questions about Malcolm

Meanwhile, Holden Novak asks Lily Winters (Christel Khalil) some questions about Malcolm Winters (Shemar Moore). And Holden’s hoping Lily can get Malcolm to do his treatment in Genoa City to be near them, but Lily says their bio-dad doesn’t stick around long. And Lily explains that Neil raised her and was the dad in her everyday life. She does love Malcolm, though.

Holden admits that it’s probably too late for him to have a relationship with Malcolm and he’s not blaming him. He’s more upset that his mom, Stephanie Simmons (Vivica A. Fox) lied his whole life. Holden says he grew up teased as the kid with the dead dad and said he would lie and say his father was still living. Lily feels bad for him and encourages Holden to tell Malcolm all of this.

Young and the Restless Spoilers: Nate Meets Stephanie Simmons

Also, this week, Nate Hastings runs into Stephanie she knows all about Nate because she’s in touch with his mom, Olivia. And then Nate has dinner with Stephanie and he’s stunned that she knows a lot about his life, including that he quit being a doctor and Nate talks about struggling with losing patients.

I guess they’re retconning that Devon Hamilton Winters (Bryton James) hurt Nate and that’s why he can’t be a doctor, a surgeon anymore at least. You know, I guess he could still be a regular doctor. Stephanie tells him that Holden is her son and then Nate gets a call and leaves. So that’s because Lily has called Devon and Nate for a family meeting. They are shocked to find out that Holden is her half brother and of course they’re suspicious. Lily steps away to take a call and comes back crying. She found out that Charlie and Mattie are not a match for Malcolm.

Devon and Nate try to comfort Lily, but they don’t know what’s going on. She hasn’t told them. Holden tells Stephanie that the Winters family may reject him because of things he’s done while in Genoa City. His mom offers to help smooth things over, but Holden says no. He thinks this might be better.

Young and the Restless Spoilers Tuesday, April 21st: Christine’s Surprise For Danny

On Tuesday, April 21st, we’ve got Christine Blair Romalotti (Lauralee Bell) telling Danny Romalotti (Michael Graziadei) she has a surprise for him. It’s a big surprise. So, I wonder if Christine got Daniel to agree to go to Spain with Danny. Meanwhile, Christine also needs Danny’s help with a tough decision. And I wonder if Christine also wants to go to Barcelona, but with Devon appealing Mariah’s plea deal, it’s a tricky time. Also this week, Cricket has a talk with Victoria Newman (Amelia Heinle). And Victor Newman (Eric Braeden) fires a warning shot at his enemies.

Plus, Lauren Fenmore (Tracey E. Bregman) learns a secret from Michael Baldwin (Christian LeBlanc). Lauren can tell something is wrong. And Michael says that Summers Conglomerate is going down. So, Victor may have found a way to weaponize Chancellor against Phyllis Summers (Michelle Stafford). Abby Newman (Melissa Ordway) and Devon disagree. I’m sure this is about his appeal to undo Mariah’s plea bargain.

Y&R Spoilers Wednesday, April 22nd: Victor Keeps His Word

Then on Wednesday, April 22nd, we’ve got Victor keeping his word. And this may be about getting everything back that Phyllis took and destroying her. Plus, Diane Jenkins Abbott (Susan Walters) catches Nikki Newman (Melody Thomas Scott) and Jack Abbott (Peter Bergman) in a sticky situation. So, we’ll see if Nikki and Jack set it up for Diane to walk in on them.

They had talked about trying to make their spouses jealous to get them to work to repair their split marriages, but it seems like a bad idea. Victoria looks for something incriminating on Phyllis. Obviously, she wants to help get the family business back, and this may be why Victoria is talking to Christine this week on Young and the Restless.

Young and the Restless Spoilers Thursday, April 23rd: May Sweeps Kicks Off

Thursday, April 23rd, May sweeps kicks off, and we’ve got Nick Newman (Joshua Morrow) on a dangerous path. I mean, heck, he’s been on one for weeks now, right? Cane Ashby (Billy Flynn) wants to help Lily and he makes a bold move. So, I think Cane is going to find out enough to know that there’s a medical crisis. I think he’s going to go get tested to help out Malcolm.

This week, Lily talks to both Cane and Stephanie together and everybody’s looking tense. And Claire Newman (Hayley Erin) steps up for Holden. He is still freaking out about his secret dad and his mom’s lies. But Holden introduces Claire to his mom Stephanie, who is all smiles. Looks like she likes Claire better than Audrey, as she likes to call Audra to mess with her.

Friday, April 24th: Phyllis Gets a Deal on Y&R

Friday, April 24th, Phyllis gets a deal from Victor she cannot refuse. So, he’s either going to dangle something juicy or threaten her. We’ll see. Also, this week, Phyllis runs into crazy Patty, and Phyllis is not happy about that. There’s going to be a showdown with them at the GCAC. Adam forces Riza Thompson (Tina Casciani) to confess.

Young and the Restless Spoilers: Adam Grills Riza

Obviously, Adam has questions like, was she playing the middle and working both him and Matt Clark (Roger Howarth)? Or was Riza strictly allied with Matt all along and lying to the Newmans? That doesn’t seem to be the case based on the private convos we saw between her and Matt, but Adam may assume this.

Riza may also know where Matt plans to ambush Sharon Newman (Sharon Case) and Noah Newman (Lucas Adams) because Sharon and Noah walk into a trap in Vegas that’s set by Matt. So it looks like they get off the plane, Sharon and Noah are driving. They pull up at some abandoned industrial area they were told to go to. And Noah tells Sharon this isn’t what he was expecting.

And she asked Noah if they should go in or not. Also this week, we’ve got Adam riding shotgun with Nick, who is high as a kite behind the wheel. Adam knows he’s a druggie, so why let him drive? It’s insanity. So, it looks like they may be on their way to find Noah and Sharon and save them from Matt.

Week of April 27th-May 1st: First Full Week of Y&R May Sweeps

April 27th through May 2nd is the first full week of May sweeps. And looks like we’re going to pick back up with Nick driving drugged and unhinged with anger about Matt targeting Sharon and Noah.

Hopefully Nick doesn’t hurt somebody while he’s driving under the influence. But let’s be real, he is a clear liability and in what is a very high-risk situation. We’ll find out Matt’s endgame that he’s got planned for Noah and Sharon and also for Adam and Nick. We expect this big boss battle between Matt and the Newmans when May sweeps hits its pinnacle.

More on the deal that Victor offers Phyllis. Nick is confronted with his own addictions as he’s spiraling and can’t keep lying to everybody who love him and know him best. It is just about time for him to be sent to rehab to stay for quite a while. Holden and Claire get closer. Looks like Kyle Abbott (Michael Mealor) is going to be shut out.

And of course, he is still very angry at Victor for drugging Jack and setting up his parents’ marriage to implode. And Claire, of course, like a lot of the Newmans, is a big Victor enabler and apologist. So, that seems like a deal-breaker. Jack and Nikki may have burned the last bridge between them and their spouses. We’ll find out if Cane’s a match for Malcolm. We’ll also find out if Devon drops the appeal. And the Matt nightmare is just about over.

Meghan Markle reportedly expressed frustration over her “MasterChef Australia” cameo, with sources claiming she objected to being introduced as “royalty.”

During their trip to Australia, she and Prince Harry attended private and public engagements, with estimates suggesting their appearances could generate up to $10 million.

The couple has since returned to California, with Meghan Markle posting about her warm homecoming with gifts, treats, and a “Welcome Home” sign.

Meghan Markle Was Introduced As The ‘Duchess Of Sussex’

Meghan is reportedly unhappy with aspects of her recent appearance on “MasterChef Australia,” according to claims from sources close to the production.

The Duchess of Sussex, 44, made a brief cameo during filming for the cooking competition while she and Prince Harry were in Australia.

In the episode, judge Poh Ling Yeow introduced her warmly, noting, “We’ve had ‘MasterChef’ royalty in the kitchen before, but no one like this,” before adding, “All the way from sunny California, please welcome to ‘MasterChef Australia’ the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle!”

The Duchess And Her Team Were ‘Frustrated’ With The Use Of The Word’ Royal’

A report from news.com.au, published Monday, April 20, suggests that Meghan and her team were “very frustrated” with how she was introduced on the show.

The concern reportedly centered on the use of the word “royal,” which they had allegedly requested be avoided.

A source claimed the duchess’s team was unaware of the issue at the time, as they were not present when the introduction was recorded, and only learned about it when the promo was released, leaving them unhappy.

According to the report, the preference to steer clear of royal terminology was meant to avoid unnecessary discussion about the couple’s current role and status during their visit.

Harry And Meghan’s Australia Visit Draws Attention Over Private Engagements, Public Appearances, And Earnings Speculation

Meghan and Harry did not bring their children, Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4, along for the trip.

While in Australia, the couple attended a mix of private, commercial, and philanthropic events, none of which were in an official royal capacity. The visit also marked their first return to the country since 2018, when they were still working members of the royal family.

During the trip, Meghan also hosted a well-publicized women’s retreat in Sydney tied to the “Her Best Life” podcast, billed as an “in-person conversation with Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.”

Financial speculation around the trip also followed. According to estimates from financial expert Ted Jenkin, the couple’s combined appearances and speaking engagements could potentially generate up to $10 million, driven by brand exposure, audience reach, and partnership opportunities.

“Meghan and Harry could make money from audience aggregation, premium access, and brand leverage. All totaled, this tour could fetch $10 million or more for Meghan and Harry,” he said, per Page Six. “Anytime these two get in the public eye, it usually follows with a flowing cash register.”

Press Tensions Rise During Harry And Meghan’s Australia Visit Amid Alleged Embargo Breach

Alongside this, concerns about press relations resurfaced. Reports cited by Guardian Australia claimed that the Daily Mail’s Australian outlet published embargoed details of the couple’s itinerary before they arrived in Melbourne, despite instructions that the information remain private until the tour began.

These included location details across Melbourne, Sydney, and Canberra, along with briefing materials and background notes.

Sources alleged that after a complaint from the Sussexes’ communications team, the article was removed.

It was also claimed that journalists may have followed members of the couple’s advance security team, raising concerns about privacy and safety during the visit. Local authorities, including Victoria Police and New South Wales Police, reportedly increased security measures as needed throughout the trip.

According to the same reports, the situation escalated enough to affect aspects of the tour, including how information was shared with the press across different stops in Australia.

Meghan’s communications team later confirmed a change in protocol, with a spokesperson stating that media outlets, including the Daily Mail, Daily Mirror, and Sky News Australia, had “reported on sensitive embargoed information, complicating and compromising security arrangements.”

As a result, they said the couple would no longer be sharing detailed itineraries beyond the “initial ops note with media for the remainder of their trip.”

After wrapping up their engagements, Meghan and Harry returned quietly to California. On April 19, Meghan gave followers a look at their arrival through her Instagram Stories, where a “Welcome Home” sign was visible at their home.

She also posted a collection of gifts and treats that appeared to have been left for the family, including Australian snacks like Tim Tams, sweets, children’s books, stickers, coloring materials, and handwritten notes, seemingly intended for Archie and Lilibet.

Virginia Sen. Mark Warner announced that his daughter Madison has died. She was 36.

“We are heartbroken beyond words by the passing of our beloved daughter Madison … after a decades-long battle with juvenile diabetes and other health issues,” Warner, 71, and wife Lisa Collis wrote in a statement shared via Instagram on Monday, April 20. “She filled our lives with love and laughter, and her absence leaves an immeasurable void.”

The statement continued, “We are grateful for the loving support of friends and family during this difficult time and ask for privacy as we navigate this profound loss.”

Several politicians sent their condolences to Warner’s family following their loss.

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“Our prayers are with Sen. Warner, his daughter, and their whole family,” Vice President JD Vance wrote via X on Monday. “What a terrible loss at such a young age. May God comfort them.”

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger also sent her sympathies to the Warner family.

“My deepest condolences are with the Warner family as Mark and Lisa mourn their beloved daughter and Gillian and Eliza mourn their sister, Madison,” Spanberger wrote via X on Monday. “Adam and I are holding them all in our hearts and prayers during this time of great loss.”

Warner’s Senate colleague Tim Kaine paid tribute to Madison reflecting on her bond with her father.

“Anne and I have known Mark and Lisa for decades, and nothing in the world has ever mattered more to them than their daughters,” Kaine wrote in a statement via X on Monday. “We met Madison when she was ten years old and have so many wonderful memories of time together with her. We are keeping the entire Warner family and all who knew and loved Madison in our prayers as they grieve this terrible loss.”

Related: Malcolm-Jamal Warner Is Honored for ‘Endless Curiosity and ‘Warmth’

Malcolm-Jamal Warner has been honored by his friends and former colleagues in a live podcast almost a week after his death. A live episode of his “Not All Hood” podcast dropped on Friday, July 25 and was led by his cohost Candace Kelley. Actress Jessica Miesel, who worked alongside Warner in The Resident, paid tribute […]

Warner is a senior senator representing Virginia as a Democrat. He was elected to office in 2009. Warner serves as the vice chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus and the Senate Intelligence Committee. Before joining Congress, Warner was governor of Virginia from 2002 to 2006.

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While Warner has been a public figure for the past few decades, Madison lived her life out of the spotlight. In 2019, Warner opened up about his daughter’s battle with juvenile diabetes.

“As the father of a daughter with Juvenile Diabetes, this just breaks my heart,” he tweeted at the time alongside a BuzzFeed article discussing the challenges of a person battling type 1 diabetes. “Congress and the pharmaceutical companies need to step up to make sure insulin is affordable and accessible for those who need it.”

Warner and Collis have two other daughters: Gillian and Eliza.

Charging documents have reportedly revealed new, disturbing details about D4vd‘s relationship with Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

RELATED: Father Of Celeste Rivas Hernandez Breaks His Silence After D4vd Is Taken Into Custody

Charging Documents Reportedly Reveal Disturbing Details About D4vd’s Relationship With Celeste Rivas Hernandez

According to the New York Post, charging documents obtained by The California Post have shared prosecutors’ “disturbing timeline of the relationship between Celeste Rivas and D4vd.” Per the outlet, the documents were shared amid D4vd being charged with first-degree murder of the 14-year-old on Monday, April 20.

Firstly, the documents reportedly asserted that D4vd engaged in “continuous sexual abuse” of Hernandez “on or between” September 2023 and September 2024. During this time, Hernandez could have been as young as 12 years old.

Additionally, the documents accuse D4vd of murdering Hernandez “on or about April 23, 2025.” Then, “on or about May 5, 2025,” D4vd allegedly committed the crime of mutilating her body. Furthermore, prosecutors believe D4vd murdered the 14-year-old “out of fear [of] an investigation into their sexual relationship,” and its impact on his musical career.”

Social Media Reacts

Social media users immediately entered TSR’s comment section, reacting to the disturbing details about the alleged relationship between D4vd and Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

More On D4vd Being Charged Amid His Relationship & Death Of Celeste Rivas Hernandez

As The Shade Room previously reported, D4vd was arrested and held without bail in connection with the September 2025 discovery of the dismembered body of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Furthermore, Hernandez had previously been reported missing and was reportedly last known to be alive in April 2025.

Last week, the father of Celeste Rivas Hernandez, Jesus Rivas, reportedly expressed his gratitude for “justice” for his daughter, per The Shade Room. Then, earlier today, it was reported that D4vd would be charged with first-degree murder for the 14-year-old’s death. Additionally, it was shared that “additional special enhancements” could lead to D4vd facing the death penalty, per The Shade Room.

At this time, the New York Post reports that D4vd has been charged with first-degree murder. And his enhancements include “lying in wait, murder for financial gain, and murder of a witness to an investigation.” Lastly, the outlet adds that D4vd has also been charged with “lewd and lascivious sexual acts with an individual under 14 years old. And “mutilating the human remains of a body.”

RELATED: D4vd’s Mugshot Released As He’s Reportedly Expected To Be Charged With First-Degree Murder In Celeste Rivas Hernandez Case

Taylor Swift is proving once again she knows how to leave a lasting impression, both on and off stage. The pop superstar enjoyed an intimate night out in New York City with fiancé Travis Kelce and friends at the exclusive members-only club Casa Cipriani, where she reportedly left a generous tip for the live band.

Taylor Swift’s Sweet Gesture Stuns Band

Jazz musician Richie Nuzz, also known as The Neo Crooner, recalled the moment Swift showed her appreciation at the end of the night. “At the end of the night, I saw her walking towards the stage, and then that’s when I realized, you know, she was giving us a tip,” he told Page Six.

“And then she kind of like, did this bow thing, like with her hands, like praise you kind of thing. And, like, blew me a kiss,” he added. “She was so sweet about it, and it made us feel really good.”

While Nuzz didn’t confirm the exact amount, he described the gesture as “generous.” Meanwhile, another musician, Jackson Potter, hinted at just how generous the moment was, reportedly sharing that Swift tipped $200 per band member.

Inside Swift And Kelce’s ‘Intimate’ Night

According to Nuzz, Swift and Kelce were seated closely together with a small group as they celebrated a friend’s birthday. “They were sitting right next to each other. They were obviously having an intimate night and celebration,” he said.

Swift, dressed in a colorful outfit, appeared relaxed and fully immersed in the moment. “She was dancing. She was grooving,” Nuzz added.

Taylor Swift’s Ultra-Private Night Out Was ‘One Of Our Best Shows’

The performer described the atmosphere as unforgettable, noting the room’s energy shifted once Swift arrived. “It wasn’t like anybody was bothering her. It’s just like the energy that she brought to the room; everybody was having a great time,” he said. “It was definitely one of our best shows.”

Guests were reportedly slow dancing and soaking in the vibe as the band played “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” creating what Nuzz described as a night filled with love and connection.

The outing was kept under tight wraps, with Swift and Kelce reportedly entering the venue under large umbrellas. Guests were also asked to put their phones away to protect the couple’s privacy.

Swift Feels Wedding Pressure Mount

Swift and Kelce, who got engaged in August 2025 after two years of dating, are said to be planning their next chapter, with sources hinting they could tie the knot in New York City in July, and with things moving quickly, Taylor Swift is said to be feeling the pressure.

According to a report from OK!, the singer is dealing with pre-wedding nerves after private details about the ceremony were allegedly leaked. “Taylor Swift is said to be grappling with pre-wedding nerves after sensitive details about her planned marriage to Travis Kelce were leaked, raising fears their long-anticipated ceremony could spiral into a public spectacle,” the report stated.

While there’s no indication of second thoughts about the relationship itself, the scale of the event, combined with intense public scrutiny, is reportedly taking a toll. “Taylor could not be more excited about the idea of marrying Travis, but the reality of planning something on this scale, especially under intense public scrutiny, has left her feeling increasingly on edge,” the report continued.

Report Says Taylor Swift Is Rethinking Details Amid Leaks And Scrutiny

The outlet added that Swift’s attention to detail and desire for privacy have made the situation especially difficult, with the leaks described as “deeply unsettling.”

The report claims the situation has sparked conversations about whether to rethink elements of the wedding entirely, potentially adjusting plans or taking a different approach to avoid turning the big day into the kind of media frenzy she has long tried to avoid.

But whenever the wedding does happen, according to insiders, the couple has asked guests to skip traditional gifts and instead donate to charity. Sources told Rob Shuter’s Naughty but Nice Substack that Swift and Kelce “won’t be needing any gifts,” opting to turn the celebration into an opportunity to give back.

Brooks Nader revealed what happened to Sarah Jane Nader’s nipple piercings after a trip to the Arctic.

Brooks, 29, took to Instagram on Monday, April 20, to share a gory photo of blood stains on a sheet. “PSA: Take your nipple rings out before you go to the Arctic!!!!” Brooks captioned the post, tagging Sarah Jane, 23.

Before Brooks revealed what can happen in cold temperatures, Sarah Jane joked about having concerns about the jewelry while visiting Svalbard, Norway. In one pic, she sported a skin-tight black jacket that she partially unzipped to reveal her cleavage.

“Checking on the rings 💀,” she captioned the post.

Brooks, Sarah Jane, and their other two sisters, Grace Ann and Mary Holland, all took a trip to the Arctic to participate in a women’s health experiment.

“We are all deeply passionate about women’s rights and health advocacy, and next week, we are taking a major step in our support of these causes,” Brooks captioned a post of the four of them bundled up. “We’re heading to the Arctic with @nyulangone @uarizona @thespaceprize to take part in one of the first studies exploring how women’s bodies respond to extreme conditions — from sub-zero temperatures to 24-hour daylight.”

The Sports Illustrated model continued, “Because most research in extreme environments? It’s been done on men. As women step into space programs, expeditions, and high-performance environments, the data needs to catch up. So we’re helping build it.”

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On their trip, Brooks and her sisters were being tracked on their sleep, hormones, stress and recovery levels.

In July 2025, she normalized getting a period stain on her white skirt at Wimbledon. Brooks hid the fashion faux pas by walking with her bag over her bum and shuffling against walls.

“Tries to be chic,” she captioned a TikTok of herself turning around and showing the stain. “Starts 🩸 at Wimbledon.”

Madonna is experiencing mixed feelings after her Coachella appearance.

The pop icon gave the musical festival all its tens, but that magnitude of a good time came at a high cost of sentimental items for the vocalist.

Madonna made a grand entry to Coachella for the first time in over a decade alongside Grammy winner Sabrina Carpenter, who headlined the festival for the second week of the festival.

Madonna Offers Reward For Safe Return Of Her Missing Items

The singer, in an Instagram Story posted on April 20, 2026, revealed that she was still “flying high” after her incredible performance at the festival, which featured new songs from her upcoming album “Confessions II.”

Madonna confessed that her great feeling was quickly dampened by a sad realization that some of her prized possessions were gone. She identified vintage pieces worn for her performance, like her jacket, corset, and dress, and other items that are a significant part of her wardrobe.

The singer continued to her teeming followers that she is hopeful that someone would be kind enough to locate the items and reach out to her team at the email address attached. Madonna displayed another dimension to her generosity by writing, “I’m offering a reward for their safe return. Thank you with all My Heart [pink heart emoji].”

Inside The Fashion Icon’s Surprise Performance With Sabrina Carpenter

The singer teamed up with the “Please Please Please” singer to serenade attendees of the festival on weekend two. Madonna emerged on stage midway through Carpenter’s “Juno,” where the track transitioned to her 1990 hit song “Vogue.”

As reported by The Blast, the duo hopped on another track, allegedly from her soon-to-be-released album, which also features Carpenter. The performance ended with a warm exchange of pleasantries and admiration between the two music powerhouses and a concluding performance of “Like a Prayer” from the star.

Madonna seized the opportunity to share the story of her Coachella debut with the audience, stating that it was done in a dance tent and was the first time she performed “Confessions on a Dance Floor Pt. 1” in America. In her words, “You can imagine what a thrill it is for me to be back 20 years later in the same boots, the same corset, the jacket I had on earlier, the same Gucci jacket. So it’s like a full circle moment, very meaningful for me.”

Madonna’s Dance Fueled Criticisms On The Internet

The legend always tries to leave tongues wagging whenever she steps on the stage, and Coachella is not excluded. From her viral steamy kiss with Drake to her most recent dance moves in the crowd, the singer never fails to cause conversations.

The Blast noted on April 19 that the 67-year-old let her hips loose in the crowd, dancing like it’s 99, to the admiration of her fans and an equal dislike. Some critics wondered why she always gets herself involved in childish displays, whether for attention or to trend.

Other internet users claimed she had to be influenced by a substance for her to move like that, while some folks on the other side of the divide defended her dance moves as a harmless, carefree display. They urged the fans who had a bone to pick with her manner of expression to lean into her humor and accept her for the joyful being she had become.

Sabrina Carpenter Raved About The Rare Opportunity Of Performing Alongside The Legend

The Grammy winner also had a full-circle moment of her own, describing sharing the stage with Madonna as a very surreal moment. She expressed gratitude to the singer for providing her with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to belt out tunes together on stage.

Carpenter described the performance as a dream come true, and equally thanked other musical talents like Geena Davis, Terry Crews, and Corey Fogelmanis for lighting up the whole arena with their energies. The duo’s heartwarming gig at one of the world’s biggest music festivals comes amid anticipation for her latest project, which is set to be released on July 3 via Warner Records. 

Carpenter delivered a breathtaking theatrical 20-song production titled “Sabrinawood,” which marked her return to the festival as a headliner just two years after she debuted in 2024.

Madonna Was Involved In Another Iconic Reunion Earlier This Year

The 67-year-old gave her fans another thing to be excited about when a clip of her enjoying a gondola ride with her pal Julia Garner, singing along to her “Like A Virgin” hit track.

The reunion reportedly happened while they were filming season two of the Apple TV+ series “The Studio” in Venice. The media personalities even showed up in matching outfits of black-and-white horizontally striped shirts paired with black blazers.

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Madonna and Garner also wore blue jeans while being flanked by a film crew as they filmed on location along the famous Grand Canal. The stars’ sighting immediately sparked anticipation for a Madonna biopic to be played by Garner, with emphasis on the striking resemblance between the duo. 

Will Madonna find what she is looking for?

By Jonathan Klotz
| Published 16 seconds ago

Garfield and Friends said it best: “Oh no, we’ve resorted to an evil twin storyline.” Star Trek: The Original Series did it the best with Mirror Universe Spock, and ever since, it’s been a lazy excuse for every series to use when they run out of ideas. The exception is Stargate SG-1’s sixth episode, “Cold Lazarus,” which plays with the trope by making the twin less evil and more confused.

When fans say they skip this episode when rewatching, it’s not because it’s a lazy, poorly written episode. In fact, it’s the opposite. The ending of “Cold Lazarus” is a pivotal character moment for Jack O’Neill (Richard Dean Anderson) and a gut punch to the audience. 

Stargate SG-1’s First Evil Twin

“Cold Lazarus” opens with the SG-1 team on a planet that doesn’t look like Vancouver (it was a giant pile of sulfur at the port of Vancouver). The desert landscape is dotted with shattered blue crystals that look like the remnants of a civilization until we see a crystal eye-view of O’Neill, a mysterious light knocks him out, and all of a sudden, a second O’Neill is looking down at the first. Turns out, the crystals are the civilization. 

Fake O’Neill is trying to figure out who O’Neill is and what SGC is all about. When he pulls out photos of his family, it takes Samantha Carter (Amanda Tapping) by surprise. O’Neill’s never mentioned his wife, Sara, or his son, Charlie. Confused, the Fake O’Neill goes to the home, where Sara is disgusted he’d come by and thinks it’s a sick joke that he’s asking about Charlie. If you’re wondering if you missed a key part of O’Neill’s backstory, don’t worry, this is the first time that either Sara or Charlie is mentioned, and tragically, we soon learn why. 

No One Ever Dies

Charlie shot himself with O’Neill’s gun. Fake O’Neill starts to piece this together when he goes into Charlie’s old room and breaks down, prompting Sara and him to finally have the conversation about their shared grief. Back in SGC, the crystal’s nature is revealed to be an energy alien calling itself Unity, which accidentally killed a Jaffa, and the Goa’uld shattered them in retribution. That’s when O’Neill stumbles back through the Stargate, and the team realizes the mistake they made. 

The Fake O’Neill is soon captured at a local hospital, suffering from Earth’s radiation, where he explains that he sensed O’Neill’s pain after he took his form and wanted to help ease the suffering, as nothing ever truly dies to Unity. To prove its point, Unity transforms into Charlie, giving O’Neill and Sara one last chance to see their child. Fans who haven’t lost a child can understand the emotion, but for fans who have, this scene is emotional torture, in the best way possible. 

Jack knows this isn’t Charlie, but he talks to him like he is, and then they walk together through the Stargate back to Unity’s planet. It’s a beautiful moment that explains so much about O’Neill’s throwing himself into work and how even his friendships remain professional. “Cold Lazarus” may have started out with the “evil twin” trope in full effect, but the ending is proof that even early during its run, Stargate SG-1 was going to be the greatest.