Josh Hokit defended his comment about calling Michelle Obama a “man.”

“I thought I was giving her a compliment,” the UFC fighter, 28, said during a Tuesday, June 23, appearance on sport journalist Ariel Helwani’s eponymous show.

Earlier this month, Hokit participated in UFC Freedom 250 event. After defeating Derrick Lewis, Hokit made a controversial remark about the former first lady in a post-fight interview with Joe Rogan.

“Michelle Obama is a man,” Hokit said at the time. “Am I right, America?”

Related: Josh Hokit Breaks Silence on Michelle Obama Controversy at UFC Freedom 250

UFC fighter Josh Hokit made his first public statement since his controversial moment at UFC Freedom 250 on Saturday, June 13, when he called former first lady Michelle Obama “a man” during a post-fight interview. “Strong and Courageous‼️,” Hokit, 28, wrote via Instagram on Monday, June 15. The caption came alongside a photo of the […]

Hokit received backlash for the comment but argued on Tuesday that it was meant to be endearing.

“Michelle Obama being a man. It’s like, she knows how to deal with adversity,” he said. “She knows how to work hard like a man when the times get tough.”

Helwani, 43, then asked Hokit why the thought popped into his mind during his interview.

“I thought it was a perfect opportunity to show the world how great this country is with freedom of speech,” he explained to Helwani. “You go somewhere [else in the world] and you say something like that and you die. And I’m not suicidal by the way. I’m in good spirits. I’m a little under the weather right now but other than that, I’m good. And so in other parts of the world, you say something like that and you’re not here to speak to Ariel Helwani, you know. So yeah, I don’t know; there are a few ways. There’s a few answers to that. There’s a certain side that pokes at another side and there’s no outrage there and so I thought it was a perfect time to take a jab.”

When asked if he regretted the comment about Obama, Hokit stood 10 toes down.

“Never,” he said. “That’s one thing about my career. … You’ll never hear me backtrack from what I say.”

After Hokit’s remarks got the attention of the American people, the White House responded to the controversy. Spokesman Steven Cheung called Hokit’s match a “great win” and applauded his performance.

“He showed toughness and the ability to pressure his opponent both on his feet and on the ground,” Cheung told CNN’s Jake Tapper in June.

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Related: Barack and Michelle Obama Step Out After UFC Fighter Calls Her a ‘Man’

Barack Obama and Michelle Obama stepped out one day after UFC fighter Josh Hokit called the former first lady a “man” at a White House event. The couple attended the unveiling of their portrait at Barack’s presidential library in Chicago on Monday, June 15. The painting, which was the pair’s first commissioned portrait together, was […]

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However, UFC CEO Dana White had a different reaction to Hokit’s comment.

“I understand that the Obamas [sic] are public figures but I’m completely against saying nasty and false things about people’s families,” White, 56, said in a text message to Time magazine. “Everyone knows my position on free speech but I hate that kind of nonsense.”

Obama, for her part, has not publicly addressed Hokit’s comment. Us Weekly previously reached out to Obama’s spokesperson for comment but did not hear back.

In case you’re living under a rock, the latest pop culture trend on television is the wild obsession with romantic series featuring hockey. The cross-section of love heating up off the ice began with the incredibly popular guilty pleasure, Heated Rivalry. The baton has since been passed to another book-to-series juicy romance: Off Campus. Created by Louisa Levy, the series is based on the novel series by Elle Kennedy. Set at the fictional Briar University, the show’s first season followed the fake romantic relationship turned genuine romance found in the novel The Deal.

A major reason Off Campus has resonated and taken off so quickly is the incredible characters viewers have fallen in love with. From the girls looking for men with green flags to the boys of the hockey team who have become our latest internet boyfriends, the roster of characters is brought to life by an incredible ensemble. So, which character is the best? It’s time to break down the main and recurring cast from least great to simply the best. While everyone has different criteria for what makes them the best, for this list, we’ll consider on-screen resume and performance. Though this lineup might shift by Season 2, this is how it shakes out after eight enthralling episodes.

14

Phil Graham

Portrayed by Steve Howey

Image via Prime Video

One of the most difficult things a TV fan must do is separate an actor from their previous roles when they take on new ones. Steve Howey will forever be remembered for his role on Reba. He was lovably goofy, and that’s why he was adored. His part on Off Campus couldn’t be further away. Phil Graham serves as the primary antagonist in the overarching narrative that is his son’s life. The father of Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli), the former hockey star, serves as the root of Garrett’s deepest traumas. Phil is seen for who he is: strict, controlling, and abusive. Phil is a former NHL star and wants the same legacy for his son. What he misses is that this pressure is a major root of his current strain.

The other true flaw, of course, is how he treated a young Garrett and his mother. When we see Phil, he is well-meaning until he’s rattled. Then, his true colors are exposed. By far, one of the darkest moments of the season came during Thanksgiving dinner, in which Garrett discovered that Cindy (Francesca Bianchi), his father’s new girlfriend, was the latest victim of his abuse. If there’s one element about Phil that serves as a positive, it’s that Garrett is fighting everything in his power to avoid turning into his father. And when those signs appear, he makes an effort to change his actions swiftly. Self-awareness makes a green flag boyfriend. That said, when Phil watched his son attack another player on the ice, only to meet him with praise, it only confirmed Phil as the ultimate bad dad.

13

Hunter Davenport

Portrayed by Charlie Evans

Image via Prime Video

Just the name alone — Hunter Davenport — exudes the ick. And well, he lives up to his name in Season 1. Brought to life by Charlie Evans, Hunter is a wealthy freshman hockey recruit who serves as a major source of romantic and on-ice conflict. Hunter plays a role in multiple intertwining plot lines, predominantly via Allie Hayes (Mika Abdalla) and Dean Di Laurentis (Stephen Kalyn). His first foray into the game comes through his bar meet-cute with Allie, where he goes by the name on his fake ID, Carter St. James. Allie clocked that it was not a real name because of the correlation to the character on Glee. As the secret guy Allie sleeps with, his presence becomes a combustible plot device as he has beef with her on-again, off-again new fling, Dean. The duo harbors deep resentment as they attended the same high school, where Hunter had a messy, bitter past with Dean’s sister, Summer, as well as walking away from the Briar U hockey open tryouts. Dean sees him as a selfish dick, which he’s not far off on. He doesn’t have an attitude that you want to be around beyond a one-night stand.

Hunter arrives as a low-stakes fling for Allie post-breakup. Hunter may have seemed as if he were a passing character, but it seems he’ll be a thorn in the Season 2 story’s side. Based on what we’ve seen and what we know, he will absolutely not make things easy for Allie and Dean. If you love juicy drama and a face to place the blame on, Hunter fits the bill. His cliffhanger reveal is the perfect setup for Season 2, as Allie and Dean will be in the spotlight next. For book readers, Hunter takes center stage as the protagonist in The Play, but that storyline seems far away at the moment.

12

Sean

Portrayed by Riley Davis

Image via Prime Video

We’re going to give Sean McCall a bit of grace simply because his relationship demands weren’t necessarily out of line, but as a former theater kid here, he simply didn’t understand how theater careers work. They don’t magically appear following a degree in hand. That said, we give him grace because Allie was for sure not innocent in the demise of their relationship. Sean arrives in Season 1 as Allie’s adorable long-term boyfriend. He’s integrated into the primary friend group, but, as breakups go, once he and Allie were over, he was gone. He’s not a charming-but-villainous individual as the book portrayed him; he’s just a wet blanket of a partner.

Played by Riley Davis, Sean is largely seen as a “bad” boyfriend because he is portrayed as a dull, unsupportive partner who stifles Allie’s desire for excitement. The truth is, he’s not bad — just incompatible. Allie wants more from life, while Sean wants a future of stability. The TV version of Sean is much softer than the manipulative jerk found on the page. This gives a bit of a ding on Allie’s resume when she has a brush with the wild side prior to their split. Sean just didn’t want to partake in a costume party, but we thank him, as the 2026 couple costume will be inspired by Allie and Dean, with people showing up as Jennifer Lopez in the green dress and Maverick from Top Gun.

11

Daveed

Portrayed by Brandon Scott

Image via Prime Video

We all have that one teacher or professor who is meant to inspire us to be the people we are today. For Hannah Wells (Ella Bright), that stand-in figure comes in the form of her music professor and advisor, Daveed. Played by Brandon Scott, Daveed is the vital emotional anchor for Hannah’s music journey. Daveed, as he should, serves as the steady adult figure in Hannah’s life who always shows up when she needs advice without adding unnecessary, chaotic drama. Though he may roll his eyes at the whiplash that she and the school put him through, in the end, his mission is to ensure the best for Hannah. Pretty sure if he had the monetary means to pay for her tuition, he’d front it. Daveed is an exceptional mentor, championing her artistic talent and providing consistent encouragement.

One of his shining moments came when he advised Hannah on finding her true voice, gently pushing her to write music that makes her feel in middle school with artists like Paramore. When he challenges her to step outside her comfort zone, little does he realize that it also helps her romantic prospects. When Hannah became afraid of letting others in and dropping out of the Pop Showcase, he reminded her that allowing the right people in could be the healing that she needed. Of course, when she runs back in, hoping for a spot in the Pop Showcase, he lets her know that the programs still list her name, so her spot is still there. Knowing Daveed, he was never going to give up that opportunity for a student he believed in. Daveed could be higher on this list, but unfortunately, as a storytelling device, he’s forced to be a sustained one-night hero.

10

Dexter

Portrayed by Miles Gutierrez-Riley

Image via Prime Video

The truth about relationships is that when you find your true love, your inner circle slowly falls away. But when you need them, they’re always there for you with a punch of the truth. Such is the case for screen time in Off Campus. The time we did have with Dexter was fantastic, as he showcased how fiercely loyal and brilliantly hilarious he is. Played by Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Dexter is one of Hannah’s most outgoing friends. Dexter is best known for cracking jokes, offering pointed opinions, and supporting Hannah as she develops her complicated feelings for Garrett. Dexter is the friend you go to when you need the mood lightened.

Dexter has a magnetic energy about him. His charisma is simply unmatched. No one has more perfectly timed facial expressions. Whether it’s his witty emceeing in Drunk Shakespeare, making college classes bearable with sly commentary, or the quotable lines that made him a fan favorite, Dexter was more than just the gay best friend; he was iconic. If there is one character who deserves more screen time, it’s Dexter. Perhaps with our other theater diva leading the next season, we might get to see his stage prowess continue.

9

Justin Kohl

Portrayed by Josh Heuston

Image via Prime Video

The action of Season 1 is all because of this guy: music heartthrob Justin Kohl. Justin is the epitome of a crush. He’s a brooding, tattooed, talented guitarist of the band After Hours. As a music major, it’s no wonder Hannah would be enamored by him. Like most of us with a crush, Hannah has little capacity to communicate her feelings for him. Unlike most of us, Hannah hatched a plan with Garrett to fake a romance to make Justin jealous. That was while he was helping her out with writing a song for the Pop Showcase. Though they may have had some collaborative chemistry, as romcoms always prove, it was Garrett all along. Their collaboration fizzled out when Justin went rogue, performed Hannah’s song, which he wrote lyrics to, and then asked her to start over. Not the best means of collaborating! Believe me, I’ve experienced it. That said, the music was a metaphor for their relationship during the season.

Josh Heuston eased into the part of the campus heartthrob, giving him that emo, angsty edge with an aura of mystery that gets the ladies swooning. Heuston made him more than just a plot device, as he told Deadline. “I wanted people to feel for him and empathize in the fact that he’s just trying to follow his heart and see where that takes him, and as opposed to just being the totally typical archetype,” Heuston revealed. Sadly for Justin, his run on Off Campus was a one-and-done; Heuston will not be returning for Season 2, mostly due to availability, according to the showrunner. Since Hannah and Garrett are officially a thing, his part of the story is over — for now. Based on the book, further down the timeline, Justin will find his love with another character named Stella. But we’re not there yet.

8

Beau Maxwell

Portrayed by Khobe Clarke

Image via Prime Video

If you’re a book reader, then you know what Beau Maxwell’s story will eventually be. For those series-only watches, savor the moments with the adorable Beau. Brought to life by Khobe Clarke, Beau is the charismatic star quarterback of the football team. He serves as the bridge that bridges the two sports squads together, as he just so happens to be Dean’s faithful wingman. Beau is loyal and goofy, so basically the epitome of golden retriever energy. He and Allie have a shocking shared interest: musical theater. And yes, they force Dean to experience their musical song geek-out, relishing his displeasure.

As a key cog in Allie and Dean’s story, Beau happens to have a famous sister who is an actor, Joanna Maxwell (Lauren Patten). When Joanna visits campus, Allie fawn’s over her, as they bond over romance. It’s Jo who convinces Allie to let loose at the bar, which ultimately finds her crossing paths with Hunter. If Jo is the devil on the shoulder, Beau is the angel. Widely expanded for the series, Beau serves as the emotional heartbeat of the group. He helps to bring out Dean’s softer side and capacity for deep, connected love. An instant standout character, expect more of Beau to come.

7

John Tucker

Portrayed by Jale Thomas Brooks

Image via Prime Video

John Tucker will likely fall to a higher spot as the series goes on, but compared to the other boys of the Briar U hockey team, he hasn’t had his fully flourishing moments quite yet. That said, we know exactly who we would turn to for a memorable orphans’ Thanksgiving. In a world of green flags, Tucker is the hunky, emotionally available boyfriend material of one of the team. With the boy-next-door vibe, Tucker brings an endearing Texas charm and little brother energy. Raised by a single mother, he acts as the nurturer of the group. He famously cooks for his roommates, leading him to the epic Thanksgiving extravaganza.

What makes Tucker stand out is that he avoids the stereotypical, egotistical jock trope. The only time his negative emotions rise is if you interfere with his kitchen. Even then, Tucker is endearing. He may be the rookie of the team, but actor Jalen Thomas Brooks is the veteran of the cast. Brooks knows a bit or two about fan-favorite TV shows, as he just so happens to play nurse Mateo Diaz on The Pitt. If there’s anyone on the Briar U hockey team who needs a devoted friend, look no further than Tucker.

6

Jules Logan

Portrayed by Julia Sarah Stone

Image via Prime Video

While Off Campus doesn’t have any boy-on-boy romances like Heated Rivalry, it certainly celebrates diversity and visibility thanks to the enigmatic Jules Logan. An original character written for the show, Julie is nonbinary and the younger sibling of hockey star John Logan (Antonio Cipriano). Jules works as the play-by-play commentator and runs the popular campus hockey gossip account known as “Fifth Line.” And even having the pulse on the drama, Jules is nothing but a supportive confidant and internal sounding board for their sibling, especially when struggling with love and their mother.

In the book, Logan has an older brother who served as the family caretaker of the auto-repair shop and their alcoholic parent. Jules takes on this narrative with a fresh take that has received a warm welcome from fans. Brought to life by Julia Sarah Stone, Jules has opened a necessary door for LGBTQ+ representation on the series. Now, for the hockey averse, Jules serves as the translator, explaining the complexities of hockey and the stakes of the game for the audience. With their brother’s love life potentially shaping up for Season 2, expect more great monologues of moral support from Jules to come.

5

Allie Hayes

Portrayed by Mika Abdalla

Image via Prime Video

From a performance perspective, one of the top actors in the ensemble is Mika Abdalla. As Allie Hayes, she lights up the screen every time she’s on it. The only reason she isn’t a bit higher is that some of her more questionable decisions throughout Season 2, compared to those above her. Allie is the witty, devoted bestie to Hannah and the ultimate ride-or-die. Allie is the one you turn to when you need someone to confide in. When Hannah reveals her past trauma, Allie shows unparalleled grace, reminding her friend of her worth. And even though Allie is going through her own struggles, she is more than eager to be the shoulder to cry on. Outwardly, Allie presents herself as a fun, outgoing young woman. Internally, she’s navigating her own path of self-discovery, college life, and romance.

Allie’s season began with Sean, took a detour with Hunter, and got quite steamy with Dean. Her relationship with Sean wasn’t perfect, as she was seeking more in life than just being a partner. She sought out a career that conflicted with his goals. Did she lead him along a bit? Maybe, but the real ding in her resume came with an instant flirtation with Dean. However, once she was free to roam, that’s when we saw the part of Allie we love watching. Between the secret hook-ups to the photo booth escapade and the fantastic Thanksgiving strip chess, the seeds of romance have been officially planted. With Off Campus borrowing the Bridgerton format and passing the focus to a new couple, Allie’s Season 2 will most certainly elevate Off Campus to even greater heights. Allie is one of the most layered individuals with much more to peel back. Her bright energy adds fun, but her softer, more mature interior is what will make the slow-burning romance with Dean one to watch for.

The nature, experiences, and allure of childhood have, for many decades, been one of the most pointed and powerful ideas cinema has explored. It is no surprise that many of the films that have explored youth the best exude an arresting sense of nostalgic yearning, hearkening to the ideal of childhood’s unburdened freedom to capture an air of wonder, possibility, and fun. However, many of the best movies to examine the theme also come with meditations on the loss of innocence, the pressures of family, and the numbing nature in which a child’s naivety clashes with the harshness of reality.

Ranging from underrated classics of the 21st century to iconic blockbusters of the 1980s, these tales of youth are the best depictions of childhood cinema has ever seen. Furthermore, with films from France, Japan, Ireland, Iran, and Sweden as well as America featuring prominently, this collection of movies also showcases the universality of the appeal of childhood as a time of excitement, wonder, and discovery.

Image via Universal Pictures

Marking one of the most iconic titles in Hollywood history, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial shines not only as a stunning sci-fi blockbuster, but as one of the most mesmerizing and immersive portrayals of childhood to have ever graced mainstream cinema. Entwined in the magical tale of alien companionship and the efforts to elude government agents, it epitomizes the sheer wonder and adventure of youth with a magnetism that makes everyone who views it feel like a child again.

Steven Spielberg is obviously a master of conjuring such a sense of imaginative awe, but one thing he does brilliantly in E.T. is grounding the movie in moments of heartbreaking drama and, at times, even confronting terror. It captures the full array of experiences and emotions children go through, rather than just romanticizing feelings of glee and excitement. Further supported by the exquisite, characterful puppetry of E.T. and Spielberg’s use of perspective that plants the audience in young Elliott’s (Henry Thomas) view of the world, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is the finest display of childhood awe that blockbuster cinema has ever seen.

‘The Quiet Girl’ (2022)

Image via Break Out Pictures

While it received widespread critical acclaim and even netted an Academy Award nomination, The Quiet Girl has gone largely unnoticed despite delivering a beautifully poignant exploration of childhood fragility. As one of many siblings living in an impoverished and bitterly dysfunctional household in rural Ireland, Cáit (Catherine Clinch) has grown withdrawn and reclusive. To unburden the stress her family is enduring as her mother manages another pregnancy, she is sent to live with aging distant relatives Eibhlín (Carrie Crowley) and Seán Kinsella (Andrew Bennett) on their farm, where she begins to blossom in their care.

Understated, restrained, and deftly delicate, The Quiet Girl uses its subdued realism to weave an emotionally enrapturing story of neglect, love, and discovery. It marks a masterful directorial debut from Colm Bairéad, who lingers on moments of nuance, connection, and secluded beauty with complete control, conjuring moving sequences where muted gestures and unspoken words become profoundly powerful. It is thematically confronting in how it explores turmoil and mistreatment through the eyes of a child, but it soars with its touching found-family dynamic that finds the warmth and love of childhood even within difficult circumstances.

‘Au revoir les enfants’ (1987)

Image via MK2 Diffusion

With its title translating to “Goodbye Children,” Au revoir les enfants is a somber and sobering descent into the fragility of childhood in the midst of sweeping turmoil and political tension. Set in a French boarding school during WWII, it follows the strained bond that develops between Julien (Gaspard Manesse) and Jean (Raphaël Fejtő), a socially awkward student new to the school who Julien discovers to be a Jew in hiding.

Rather than drifting on sentiment, Au revoir les enfants depicts boyhood in its reality, portraying the students as bawdy, mischievous, and cheekily troublesome youths striving to prove their masculinity to one another. The way director Louis Malle captures this gallivanting while still illustrating the innocence of the characters is astonishing, as is the devastating climax, which shows how innocence doesn’t fade gradually, but often shatters against accountability and brutality.

‘Boyhood’ (2014)

Image via IFC Films

A masterful encapsulation of childhood and coming-of-age that was ambitiously filmed over 12 years, following the same actors from grade school to young adulthood, Boyhood offers a fluid and grounded depiction of the life of a child. Told through a series of vignettes that capture family gatherings, road trips, birthday parties, and schooling milestones, it follows Mason’s (Ellar Coltrane) formative experiences as he and his sister grow up from being little kids to teenagers on the brink of college.

The stunning scope of the film, presented over the course of a 165-minute runtime, unfolds like a memory of childhood, a blurry yet beautiful procession of important moments that emphasize the quaint details of life. True to director Richard Linklater’s style, Boyhood is a feat of naturalism in cinema, an exploration of the highs and lows of an upbringing under divorced parents that wrestles with the flawed humanity of all its characters through a lens of arresting authenticity.

‘Fanny and Alexander’ (1982)

Image via Sandrew Film & Teater

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Initially released as a five-hour miniseries by Swedish maestro Ingmar Bergman, Fanny and Alexander was trimmed down to a stunning three-hour realization of childhood that contrasts the wondrous freedom of youth against the intimidating vulnerability of helplessness in a world ruled by adults. Set in the early 20th century, it follows siblings Alexander (Bertil Guve) and Fanny Ekdahl (Pernilla Allwin) as they navigate the tumultuous shifts in their peaceful family life in the aftermath of their father’s death and their mother’s marriage to a strict bishop.

Bergman’s ability to explore dichotomy is on full display. The movie dissects both an adult’s vision of the world against a child’s and explores the stark difference between the warmth and tenderness of motherhood and the cold, masculine sterility of fatherhood. Further strengthened by its ability to weave together fantasy and reality, Fanny and Alexander is a masterclass in childhood wonder and a masterpiece of international cinema.

‘I Was Born, But…’ (1932)

Image via Shochiku

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Through its reliance on visual storytelling, particularly in performance, silent comedy cinema often holds a striking sense of sincerity that is emotionally captivating. That is certainly the case with I Was Born, But…, an underrated masterpiece from Japanese filmmaking genius Yasujirō Ozu that unfolds as two young brothers move to Tokyo with their father when he is transferred. As they navigate issues of bullying and social cliques, they must also reckon with a soul-shattering reality when they discover their father, whom they idolize, is routinely ridiculed in his workplace.

Amongst their peers, the boys strive for masculinity. Acts of truancy and aspirations of strength display their desire for power in their naïve vision of the world. But their innocence is inescapable when they are exposed to the true callousness of the world through their father’s mistreatment and their complex feelings of shame, anger, and reluctant acceptance. The fact that the story transpires with such elegance and resonance despite not having dialogue is incredible, making I Was Born, But… a monumental achievement of cinema and a powerful exploration of childhood.

‘Children of Heaven’ (1997)

Image via Miramaz Films

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While it has perhaps gone unnoticed by the masses, Iranian cinema has been a beacon of excellence in the form on the international stage for many years now. One of the country’s defining masterpieces is Children of Heaven, a poignant and ensnaring family picture of profound humanism. When Ali (Amir Farrokh Hashemian) loses his sister’s shoes while running errands, the two siblings concoct a scheme to keep the accident hidden from their parents. When it becomes increasingly difficult to keep the ruse going, Ali enters a running race to win new shoes.

Anchored by the captivating performances of the two young stars, Children of Heaven enthralls viewers in the adorable yet visceral stakes of the lost shoes, using the issue to explore childhood morality, sibling bonds, and the fine balance between innocence and accountability. Exuding an air of wonder, charm, and joyous adventure with sublime tenderness, the Iranian film is an emotionally gripping immersion into the ideals and troubles of childhood.

‘Stand By Me’ (1986)

Image via Columbia Pictures

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Directed by Rob Reiner and based on the Stephen King novella The Body, Stand by Me explores a fascinating stage of a child’s development, the fleeting moment on the cusp of adolescence as youthful curiosity clashes with teenage recklessness. Following four friends as they venture into the woods to see a dead body, its premise is laced with an interest in violence that so many young boys think makes them manly, but its execution is defined by the boys’ underlying innocence and their beautiful friendship.

Reiner’s direction makes the film a masterful immersion in the emotions of youth that is nostalgic and piercing without relying on sentiment. Its tragic finale, punctuated by the beautifully worded observation, “I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve. Jesus, does anyone?” which embodies the perfection of Stand by Me and the precision with which it captures the essence of boyhood in all its bittersweet glory.

‘Cinema Paradiso’ (1988)

Image via Titanus

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An ode to cinema and the influences in childhood that shape our lives, Cinema Paradiso is a gorgeous and soulful drama of human connection, community, and the uniting force of art. After hearing about the death of the projectionist from his hometown, an Italian director reflects on his childhood and his formative relationship with Alfredo (Philippe Noiret), who cultivated his passion for cinema and helped him in his adolescence as he struggled with the agony of first love.

Complemented by Ennio Morricone’s beautiful score, Cinema Paradiso relishes the journey of life and the way the memories of youth, infused with an idealized air of mischief, magic, and wonder, last a lifetime. Its final act, following the director as he returns to his hometown to attend Guido’s funeral, becomes a bittersweet meditation on the fragility of childhood recollections against the brutality of the passage of time. Made truly unforgettable by its astonishing final moments that encapsulate the glory of cinema and memory, Cinema Paradiso is a heartwarming depiction of childhood at its most wondrous and pure.

‘The 400 Blows’ (1959)

Image via Cocinor

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Authentic and compassionate in its examination of childhood innocence in the harshness of the real world, The 400 Blows is viewed by many as being the ultimate exploration of youth in cinema. Directed by French filmmaking legend François Truffaut, it follows young Antoine (Jean-Pierre Léaud), a neglected boy misunderstood by his parents and tormented by his teacher due to his rebellious behavior, as he abandons his schooling and embarks on a life of petty crime that leads him to a juvenile detention center.

Under Truffaut’s sympathetic lens, Antoine’s story isn’t presented as a nihilistic tragedy, but as a complex and sincere examination of troubled youth where reckless decisions and inevitable consequences are offset by beats of friendship, camaraderie, and innocent joy. The 400 Blows holds strong criticisms of the world, but it places them at the feet of adults rather than at the whims of a child’s struggles. In doing this, it balances misbehavior with vulnerability, and emerges as the most piercing, powerful, and essential depiction of childhood.

Scott Hoying and his husband, Mark Hoying, are celebrating the birth of their daughter via surrogate.

“SHE’S HERE! WE’RE DADS! 🥹 Our baby’s name is… 🩷,” the Pentatonix singer, 34, and Titanique producer, 35, captioned their joint Instagram post on Tuesday, June 23, revealing they decided on the name Birdie James after singing about the many monikers they considered.

“She was born on June 3 and was given a name that is near and dear to their hearts,” Scott told People. “The first song I ever learned to sing when I was a little, little kid was ‘Put On a Happy Face,’ from Bye Bye Birdie.”

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Scott Hoying is still booked and busy despite leaving the Dancing With the Stars ballroom. Hoying, 34, opened up about what’s next for him after he was eliminated from the competition with pro partner Rylee Arnold during the Wicked Night episode on Tuesday, October 21. “Pentatonix is going on tour in two weeks,” he told […]

The performer also noted that Mark’s middle name is James, adding, “We wanted something that was musical, but not too on the nose. And we also just loved that it felt… Feels like it could work at any age.”

Scott and Mark said they are over the moon that their bundle of joy has arrived months after Scott’s sister Lauren volunteered to be their egg donor.

“I literally cannot believe how selfless she is. She was so passionate about doing it,” Scott gushed of his sister and about how he’ll be forever appreciative of her sacrifice. “I love my sister so much, and I cannot thank her enough for giving the gift of life.”

Scott reflected on his life journey, revealing that he feels blessed to have found love and now be able to embark on the new chapter of parenthood alongside Mark.

They previously released a gender reveal video in January, singing about what their child could be like in the future before confirming they were expecting a baby girl.

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Prior to welcoming a baby girl, the couple exchanged vows in July 2023 at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara, California. Their ceremony took place more than one year after Scott proposed in the Bahamas in April 2022.

Related: Celebrity Pregnancy Announcements of 2026: Gordon Ramsay’s Daughter, More

Many stars are expanding their families in 2026. Actresses Bonnie Wright and Aubrey Plaza revealed in April that they are both pregnant. That same month, Natalie Portman announced that she is expecting baby No. 3, her first with partner Tanguy Destable. The next month, Princess Eugenie shared the news that she is expecting her third […]

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“It really was beautiful. It was this overwhelming flashback of all these memories growing up and being like, ‘Am I going to find love? Is gay marriage going to be legal? Am I going to be able to have a kid?’” Scott shared of his journey to parenthood, revealing, “The process of us having a child took four or five years.”

Scott said he was overcome with emotions while meeting their daughter, admitting, “It’s been a long time coming and just looking at her, I started crying because it was just such a beautiful thing that I feel really, really lucky.”

If awards dictate what is actually the best in any art form, then the best show on TV is HBO Max‘s The Pitt. It won three Emmy Awards in its first season, including for Outstanding Drama Series, and is a major frontrunner for more recognition after a compelling Season 2. After the first season culminated in Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch (Noah Wyle) breaking down, the show’s return took it a step further, as Dr. Robby grappled with suicidal ideation. Thankfully, Season 2 culminated on a note of hope for The Pitt‘s lead character.

However, Season 2 also had its share of tragedy, most prominently with the heartbreaking loss of ER regular Louie Cloverfield (Ernest Harden Jr.). Just as devastating was the death of patient Roxie Hamler in the last hours of her cancer journey — and now, the actor behind that incredible performance is taking things into her own hands for potential Emmy consideration.

Brittany Allen’s Roxie Hamler Is the Standout of ‘The Pitt’ Season 2

At its core, The Pitt is about treating patients. With so many characters coming and going from the ER, very few remain the focus for long. Some, however, do make a tremendous impact, like Season 2’s Roxie Hamler (Brittany Allen). Viewers first meet her when she’s brought into the Pitt after a seizure at home that causes her to fall and injure her leg. Normally, this would be treatable, but Roxie’s body is severely weakened by advanced lung cancer.

Roxie’s introduction is accompanied by the uncomfortable realization that she may never leave the hospital, despite the optimism of her husband, Paul (Taylor Handley). With her pain only increasing by the hour, Roxie requests that her ER stay be extended. Instead of The Pitt spending only one episode with her, she becomes a recurring character as her condition worsens, with Dr. Cassie McKay (Fiona Dourif) a constant presence by her bedside.

Before the end of Season 2, Roxie is gone, but her death happens quite unexpectedly. Given the amount of pain her patient is in, McKay goes to Robby, who agrees to let her order more morphine. Both he and McKay know that administering a higher dose could kill Roxie, but for Robby, the potential legal consequences outweigh the benefits of palliative care, which can often mean allowing someone to die with dignity. When Roxie does ultimately pass, her death happens offscreen; neither the audience nor Cassie is present to witness the moment. All that’s left is to mourn the loss.

Brittany Allen Deserves an Emmy for ‘The Pitt’ Season 2

Instead of portraying Roxie as overly emotional or hysterical, Allen delivers a performance rooted in quiet strength and acceptance. Despite resigning herself to her circumstances, Roxie is visibly concerned about how her family will cope with losing her. She doesn’t want to miss out on more life with them, but accepts that she will. It’s a real and raw portrayal that manages to be equally gut-wrenching — and certainly deserves Emmy attention.

While HBO didn’t submit Allen for Emmy consideration, the actress decided to take things into her own hands by running her own FYC campaign. To be nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama, Allen would’ve needed to appear in the majority of The Pitt Season 2, but her six-episode arc enabled her eligibility for the Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series category, per her interview with Variety:

“When I saw that they just had her pass away off camera, first of all, I thought that was a beautiful decision creatively. And then it opened the door for me to be eligible, which was, oh my God, exciting.”

This isn’t the first time Allen has submitted herself for television awards recognition; in 2011, she campaigned for her performance on All My Children for the Daytime Emmy category of Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series — and won! The Pitt is all but confirmed to be a major awards contender after Season 2, and will likely earn nominations in many of the same Emmy categories as last year. Yet if Allen’s self-submission proves anything, it’s that her unforgettable performance as Roxie Hamler deserves to be given the same consideration as previous winners like Wyle and LaNasa.

“Hacks” star Robby Hoffman is finally coming clean about her ugly Emmys exit.

The comedian admitted she stormed out of last year’s ceremony after losing to her own co-star, and the full story is even messier than fans realized.

“Hacks” star Robby Hoffman has built her career on brutal honesty, and this confession proved no exception. Her account of the night reads like one of her own stand-up bits.

Hoffman wasted no time getting into it on her appearance on “Drag Race” star Trixie Mattel’s podcast, “Bald and the Beautiful.” She revealed she and her sister had walked into the venue fully convinced the trophy was already theirs. In her words, “I was there with my sister, and I was the biggest sore loser.”

Her sister’s reaction when they lost was even more decisive — she grabbed Hoffman by the arm and pulled her straight toward the exit. The comedian recalled being so blindsided she didn’t even clock that her competition included Olivia Colman and Zoë Kravitz. She said:

“We’re beyond surprised to lose. I walk in, I’m already like, ‘Where am I going to put the Emmy?’ We lose immediately, my sister goes, ‘We don’t need this sh-t,’ and pushes me out. She grabs me by the arm. ‘We’re leaving this sh-t.’”

The ‘Hacks’ Role That Was Written With Her In Mind

Collider sat down with Hoffman ahead of “Hacks” Season 5 to talk about her role as Randi, the offbeat assistant to Jimmy and Kayla at the talent agency. She revealed the character was actually written specifically for her.

Still, she had to audition, a detail she found both fair and slightly amusing. “They’re like, well, we do know Robby… can she do it?” she joked. She credits her early career writing on the children’s PBS series “Odd Squad” as the foundation for everything she does on screen now.

“Odd Squad” was my film school,” she told Collider. Hoffman won a Daytime Emmy in 2019 for her writing on that very show, making her an Emmy winner long before “Hacks” ever came along.

Robby Hoffman’s Vegas Wedding Caused Just As Much Of A Stir

Hoffman’s Emmy night drama was not her first time getting attention for something out of the ordinary. Back in March 2025, she and “Bachelorette” alum Gabby Windey were married in Las Vegas without anyone knowing, as reported by The Blast.

The couple started dating in the summer of 2023, and they eloped on January 11, 2025, in the middle of the Los Angeles wildfire evacuations. Unable to find a place to live in the city, they drove to Vegas, and they stayed in what Windey said was a “penthouse suite that was like a wedding suite.

“Gabby turned to me, and she went, ‘Should we get married?’” Hoffman recalled. She joked that she had been proposing to Windey since the day they met, and when the moment finally felt right, Windey said yes.

The Comedian’s Wife Opened Up About Taking Control Of Her Own Story

Windey walked down the aisle to Chappell Roan’s “Hot To Go,” kicking off the 20-minute ceremony with a fun dance break. She wore a high-neck lace gown, while the pair exchanged vows in front of what they described as “a disengaged minister in red sneakers.”

Though they had initially planned to show up at a chapel simply, Windey wanted a real proposal first. Hoffman delivered by crafting it through their favorite New York Times Games, one of the most charming low-key proposals fans had ever heard of.

Celebrity friends flooded the comments when the couple went public. “Bachelorette” alum Wells Adams wrote “Omg!!!! Congratulations Gabs!!!!” while “Selling Sunset” star Chrishell Stause called it the biggest news of her day.

Another ‘Hacks’ Star Took Home The Bigger Prize That Emmy Night

While Hoffman left the Creative Arts Emmys empty-handed, “Hacks” didn’t go home without hardware. PEOPLE confirmed that Jean Smart won Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series at the Primetime Emmy Awards, picking up her fourth win in the category for her role as Deborah Vance.

Smart took the stage on a broken knee, quipping that if she was walking like John Wayne, that was the reason. She thanked her castmates, her crew, and her children before adding, “One of the best things about winning something like this is you get to thank the people you work with publicly.”

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For the comedian, watching her show sweep at the top level likely softened the sting at least a little. With all the drama, can Robby Hoffman channel all that Emmy night energy into a winning performance that finally brings home the trophy next time around?

Jennifer Aniston’s reflections on her past relationships and career moments have raised eyebrows.

According to a new report, the actress’s comments about ex-husband Brad Pitt may have caused tension in her relationship with Jim Curtis.

Jennifer Aniston discussed Pitt and other “Friends” guest stars during a recent interview, but sources claim Curtis feels uneasy about her revisiting that chapter of her life.

Jennifer Aniston’s Reflections On Brad Pitt Reportedly Cause Strain In Relationship With Jim Curtis

Aniston’s recent comments about ex-husband Brad Pitt may have seemed harmless to fans, but reports suggest they have sparked some tension in her current relationship with boyfriend Jim Curtis.

The actress briefly reflected on her “Friends” years during a conversation with former co-star Lisa Kudrow, recalling several high-profile guest stars who appeared on the sitcom. Among the names she mentioned was Pitt, who made a memorable appearance in a 2001 Thanksgiving episode.

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Speaking during Variety’s “Actors on Actors series,” Aniston praised the celebrity guests who joined the show, noting how surprising it was that many of them arrived feeling nervous despite their fame. She specifically recalled Pitt alongside stars such as Bruce Willis, Julia Roberts, and Isabella Rossellini.

According to a publication, a source revealed that Aniston viewed her comments as a sign of personal growth and emotional maturity, believing she has reached a point where she can look back on her past marriage without resentment.

“It’s been a surprising source of tension because Jen sees it as healthy and mature, while Jim thinks some relationships are better left in the past,” the insider told Closer Online. “He insists he’s not jealous but, let’s face it, if anyone could make a man jealous it would be Brad Pitt.”

Jim Curtis ‘Struggles To Understand’ Why The Actress Wants To Stay Friends With Her Ex After Their Split Caused Her ‘Pain’

Aniston and Pitt ended their marriage in 2005 after nearly five years together, but have remained cordial in the years since. Today, Pitt is in a relationship with Ines de Ramon, while Aniston recently celebrated her first anniversary with Curtis.

The insider added that although Curtis is generally supportive and secure in their relationship, he “knows firsthand how much pain Jen went through because of that relationship, and he struggles to understand why she’d want to keep the door open to any sort of friendship.”

Aniston, however, has previously spoken openly about moving beyond that chapter of her life. In an interview with Vanity Fair last year, she described the breakup as a particularly vulnerable period made even more difficult by the intense media attention surrounding it.

She recalled how “jarring” the experience felt and suggested the story was dramatic enough to fill a memoir.

The “Murder Mystery” actress also criticized the celebrity coverage of that era, saying it often felt more “like a form of a sport,” than journalism, and admitting that “there’s obviously some PTSD we all have, which is why [interviews] scare me.”

Jennifer Aniston Reflects On Divorce, Calls Marriages ‘Successful’ Despite Breakups

Aniston’s ability to remain on good terms with her former partners extends beyond Pitt.

Earlier this year, fans noticed that the “Morning Show” actress liked an Instagram post announcing that ex-husband Justin Theroux and his wife, Nicole Brydon Bloom, had welcomed their first child, a gesture many interpreted as a sign of continued goodwill.

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Despite two highly publicized divorces, Aniston has consistently rejected the idea that her marriages were failures.

In a 2018 interview with Elle, she described both relationships as “very successful,” explaining that they ended because the people involved ultimately “chose to be happy, and sometimes happiness didn’t exist within that arrangement anymore.”

She added, “Sure, there were bumps, and not every moment felt fantastic, obviously, but at the end of it, this is our one life, and I would not stay in a situation out of fear. Fear of being alone. Fear of not being able to survive.”

The Actress Is Very ‘Grateful’ For Her Life With Jim Curtis

Despite Curtis’ concern for Aniston and her remarks about Pitt, the couple is said to be in a very happy place in their relationship.

An insider shared with People Magazine that the actress is experiencing the kind of love she has always longed for with the hypnotist.

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“It’s a great partnership and makes Jen very happy,” a source told People Magazine, before calling Curtis a “special guy. Everyone loves his energy.”

“They both have a lot going on professionally but make time for each other during the week whenever they can,” the insider further noted.

“Jen’s very grateful for her life, and Jim came into it at a really good time,” they added. “Their initial friendship made their relationship feel much more genuine from the start.”

Jennifer Aniston Pays Emotional Tribute To ‘Friends’ Director James Burrows After His Death At 85

More recently, Aniston reflected on another important relationship in her life after the death of legendary television director James Burrows at age 85.

Paying tribute on Instagram, the actress described Burrows as far more than a director, calling him a father figure who played a major role in shaping both her career and personal life. She recalled how he affectionately referred to the “Friends” cast as his “kids” and said he was always there to offer encouragement, guidance, and support through both difficult and joyful moments.

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“He was a father figure to me,” she wrote. “He always checked in on me. He worried about me, celebrated me, taught me, guided me, and held me through the hardest times and the best of times. He spoiled us rotten,” she wrote.

Aniston also credited Burrows with fostering the close-knit bond that developed among the “Friends” cast, teaching them the importance of loyalty, respect, and always looking out for one another both on-screen and behind the scenes.