They might not be part of the same royal family, but Queen Letizia and Kate Middleton do have a few things in common — especially when it comes to footwear. The two women appear to be fans of navy wedges, an easy, elevated shoe choice that somehow never looks dated, and is far more versatile than you’d think.

Middleton has been wearing wedges for decades, and while she’s often spotted in a beige espadrille option these days, her dark blue pair is downright iconic. She’s styled the pick with jeans, long skirts, maxi dresses and much more, which is why we immediately thought of her when Queen Letizia wore a similar shoe with structured blue trousers earlier this month. The Spanish royal’s outfit further convinced Us that navy wedges are a worthy investment, and if you’re ready to add a timeless summer shoe to your own wardrobe, scoop up Dream Pairs’ Elastic Ankle Strap Espadrilles ASAP.

Get the Dream Pairs Elastic Ankle-Strap Espadrilles for $31 (was $46) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Despite being priced at a reasonable $31, the espadrilles could pass as something you’d find front and center in a royal wardrobe. The faux suede, closed-toe design gives the shoes an elegant appearance, working just as well in the summer months as they do on breezy fall or spring days. While the ankle strap and synthetic leather insole keep things secure, there’s also plenty of cushioning, allowing you to wear them for long periods, like at a family party or an important public engagement.

Related: Kate Middleton Retired Basic Flats for a Chic Slingback Ballet Shoe

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Kate Middleton is rarely spotted in anything other than heels, but she swapped pumps for something even classier than regular ballet flats. Middleton’s two-toned slingback flats give timeless a trendy edge, so it’s no wonder the style is taking over the internet. The Princess of Wales visited Italy wearing a simple yet elegant ensemble that […]

For her appearance, Queen Letizia kept things simple yet polished in dark pants and a white button-down shirt, using her navy wedges to pull the look together and add a special, seasonal touch. However, the same style could easily be worn with floral maxis, cropped jeans or Bermuda shorts, giving the shoes a fresh, fun and modern twist for 2026.

The Dream Pairs wedges have hundreds of glowing reviews, with many highlighting the shoe’s versatility.

“So comfy and cute! Perfect for the office or a night out,” one shopper wrote. “I loved them so much, I ordered the black pair as well!”

Another person mentioned the pair is “perfect for outdoors” (they won’t sink into the grass like a regular heel, but still feel dressy), while a different reviewer was shocked there was no break-in period.

“Super comfortable right away! Was very surprised,” they said. “No pinching anywhere, and wore them all day right out of the box. Definitely getting [it] in other colors!”

Of course, the navy option is our top choice, inspired by two of the best-dressed women out there. However, if you prefer something different, the same shoes come in white, black and even a light pink-knit alternative. Each shade is just as chic as what the royals wear, making it highly likely you’ll follow their lead and reach for this style again and again for years to come.

Get the Dream Pairs Elastic Ankle-Strap Espadrilles for $31 (was $46) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

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

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Gone are the days of wearing paper-thin flip-flops. Sarah Jessica Parker is rocking platforms again, and her sandal style appears equally comfy and luxe. We found the summer look on sale for just $31, and get this — it secretly elongates your legs. Parker strolled through New York City in a cinched denim top, flowy […]

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This July, Netflix is doing what some have previously considered impossible by rebooting Little House on the Prairie. Hoping to keep more in-step with the original novels by Laura Ingalls Wilder, the streaming series will likely feel like a departure for many longtime fans of the original Michael Landon-led series. But for those still unsure about Netflix’s upcoming reimagining, there’s no better time to jump back into the original NBC program.

Little House is best known for its generally upbeat, Midwestern-style of storytelling that, in many respects, was ahead of its time. The mixture of traditional family values and old-time religion with pure Americana is nostalgic for many, and every rewatch is a genuine delight. So, before Netflix’s new take on Wilder’s famed tale, return to Walnut Grove with these memorable Little House on the Prairie episodes.

10

“Country Girls”

Season 1, Episode 2

Image via NBC

In only the second episode of the series, Little House establishes one of its most important on-screen dynamics. “Country Girls” introduces Laura (Melissa Gilbert) and Mary (Melissa Sue Anderson) to their longtime Minnesota nemesis Nellie Oleson (Alison Arngrim), who uses the titular term to deflate the newcomers. Of course, as the Ingalls girls deal with Nellie, Caroline (Karen Grassle) struggles to hold her tongue around the girl’s mother, Katherine MacGregor‘s never-changing Harriett Oleson.

“Country Girls” is classic Little House in every sense. As the Ingalls wrestle with taking the high road, the Olesons push every button imaginable, infuriating us as much as they do the Ingalls mother and daughter. Of course, in all of this, Charles (Landon) and Nels (Richard Bull) are stuck firmly in the middle.

9

“A Harvest of Friends”

Season 1, Episode 1

Image via NBC

The first hour-length episode of Little House, “A Harvest of Friends” brings the Ingalls family to the banks of Plum Creek just outside Walnut Grove. It’s here that the regular cast of characters is introduced. Mr. and Mrs. Oleson, Reverend Alden (Dabs Greer), “Doc” Baker (Kevin Hagen), and Lars Hanson (Karl Swenson) all welcome the Ingalls to their neck of the prairie, as Charles overworks himself around town.

“A Harvest of Friends” is largely Charles-centric (and was directed by Landon too), establishing his honest, hard-working, and morally-upright character from the very beginning. The episode is an effective glimpse into the warm, cozy feelings that would be invoked by the series long-term, and is a perfect watch for those hoping to recapture the nostalgia.

8

“The Collection”

Season 3, Episode 1

Image via NBC 

You may have forgotten that Johnny Cash guest starred on Little House back in the day, which means there’s no better time to rewatch “The Collection.” Cash has an interesting (and strange) filmography, but this is undoubtedly one of his best roles. Playing ex-con-turned-faux-preacher Caleb Hodgekiss, Cash befriends young Mary and weasels his way into the hearts of all in Walnut Grove after Rev. Alden is unable to fulfill his ministerial duties. Of course, the truth eventually comes out.

In addition to Cash, June Carter Cash appears as Mrs. Hodgekiss, with both offering their musical talents. While Little House wasn’t a show that ever needed to rely on guest stars to bring in an audience, “The Collection” presents viewers with a well-known entertainer by playing to his strengths and organically including him in the story. Sure, it just feels like “Johnny Cash has come to Walnut Grove,” but there’s nothing wrong with that.

7

“The Richest Man in Walnut Grove”

Season 2, Episode 1

Image via NBC

Laura and Nellie were always fighting on Little House, but never was their rivalry more mean-spirited and violent than in “The Richest Man in Walnut Grove.” The Season 2 premiere pits the two against each other once again when Nellie makes fun of Charles for smelling like manure after he’s forced to take another job to make end’s meet. The result? Laura finally socks Nellie right in the nose.

This Little House episode balances Laura’s insecurities with Charles’ determination, culminating in the former’s final speech to her rival. “Hardworking folks only smell bad to folks who have nothing to do but stick their noses in the air,” Laura tells Nellie. “Well, whenever you stick your nose in the air with me, Nellie, it’s gonna get punched.” That’s our girl.

6

“School Mom”

Season 1, Episode 9

Image via NBC

Few Little House episodes center so diligently on Caroline, but one of the best came early on during the show’s first season. “School Mom” puts Mrs. Ingalls in the teaching seat after Miss Beadle (Charlotte Stewart) is injured and school would otherwise be canceled. With the town unwilling to keep their children home for some time, Caroline steps up, only to find that one student in particular needs special attention.

As Caroline attempts to teach Abel McKay (Dirk Blocker), her efforts are challenged when Mrs. Oleson humiliates the boy. Of course, an Ingalls doesn’t give up so easily. “School Mom” also doubles as a Bonanza reunion of sorts (not unlike another Little House episode which copied the plot from a Bonanza episode), as Dirk Blocker was the son of Dan Blocker, Michael Landon’s former castmate on the hit Western program.

5

“The Legacy”

Season 8, Episode 14

Image via NBC

One of the more creative episodes of Little House on the Prairie, “The Legacy” lives up to its name by exploring how Charles Ingalls would be remembered a century after the fact. No, the episode doesn’t address the true Ingalls family history, but rather begins in the 1980s with a young couple who purchase an antique folding-leaf table that boasts the initials “CI” on the side of it. Looking back to the 1880s, the episode explores Charles’ journey in carpentry.

“The Legacy” is a great episode. It’s meditation on what it means to make a name for yourself is quite profound, and it’s one of only two episodes (the other being Season 9’s “Once Upon a Time”) that include a “present day” sequence. Of the two of them, “The Legacy” most stands out as Charles wrestles with his life and the type of man he wants to be remembered as.

4

“The Wisdom of Solomon”

Season 3, Episode 18

Image via NBC

One of the more well-known episodes of Little House, “The Wisdom of Solomon” follows the young Solomon Henry (Todd Bridges), a blind boy from the South who arrives in Walnut Grove after running away from home. While there, his existence challenges the racist views of people like Mrs. Oleson who can’t help but see color. Unable to see it himself, Solomon treats everyone with kindness and respect, encouraging others to do the same.

“The Wisdom of Solomon” has some heart-wrenching moments that may just bring you to tears, but also offers real levity in the way of one of Charles’ best jokes (you’ll just have to hear it for yourself). The episode also introduces Don Pedro Colley as Dr. Tann (spelled Tane here for some reason), a character fans will be familiar with from Wilder’s original books. Sadly, he only shows up once here on the NBC program, but he played a bigger role in the 2005 miniseries adaptation.

3

“I’ll Be Waving as You Drive Away”

Season 4, Episodes 21-22

Image via NBC

Speaking of episodes that will bring you to tears, the two-part “I’ll Be Waving as You Drive Away” has often been considered the very best of Little House on the Prairie. Those familiar with the Season 4 finale will remember that this is the episode where Mary’s historical fate is sealed as she begins to go blind. Few episodes centered on Mary (most favored Laura), but this memorable two-parter offered Melissa Sue Anderson truly exceptional material to work with.

As the Ingalls wrestle with the right thing to do for their daughter, Mary begins the next part in her Little House journey. It’s a wonderful tale that reminds the Ingalls (and the viewer) that God’s plans are often not our own. Although this moment would change Mary’s life forever, it never stopped her from being a part of the show, sticking with the series (albeit, in a deceased role at times) through its eighth season.

2

“The Lord Is My Shepherd”

Season 1, Episodes 13-14

Image via NBC

Another gut-wrenching episode of Little House, the two-part “The Lord Is My Shepherd” puts the Ingalls family through the wringer as it explores a lesser-known event in their real-life history not disclosed in Wilder’s novels. As the Ingalls family welcomes a new baby boy, tragedy strikes when he suddenly gets sick and dies. Laura, who had been jealous of her little brother, is distraught by the experience, and runs away into the mountains to make a deal with God.

As Charles and Isaiah Edwards (Victor French) go in search of “Half Pint,” Laura meets a stranger named Jonathan (Ernest Borgnine), who eventually encourages her to signal for her father. The whole two-part episode is a grand portrayal of grief, loss, and faith as the Ingalls family wrestles with their toughest challenge yet. In the end, although not everything turns out as they hope, the family is able to unite once more and brave another day.

1

“Little House on the Prairie”

Pilot Film

Image via NBC

Before “A Harvest of Friends” ever aired on NBC, Little House began as a made-for-TV pilot film that covered many of the events disclosed in both the Little House in the Big Woods and Little House on the Prairie novels. Setting the stage for their eventual settling in Walnut Grove, the 96-minute pilot film takes the Ingalls family from Wisconsin to Kansas (though it’s all really California) to make a new life for themselves out West. Of course, that comes with plenty of challenges.

Directed by Michael Landon and penned by Blanche Hanalis, who developed the series, the pilot film is essential viewing for anyone hoping to brave the Midwestern frontier. Although not every piece of the series itself would fall into place, the film establishes the Ingalls family as a hard-working, persistent unit who will stick together through thick and thin. It also introduces Mr. Edwards, who would be a major part of the show’s early years and a consistent guest throughout it’s entire nine-season run.

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Little House on the Prairie

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Release Date

1974 – 1983

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Directors

Victor French, William F. Claxton, Leo Penn, Alf Kjellin, Joseph Pevney, Lewis Allen, Maury Dexter, Michael Ray Rhodes

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Taylor Frankie Paul agreed to take a sobriety test in an attempt to resolve her ongoing custody dispute with ex-husband Tate Paul.

Court documents obtained by Us Weekly on July 2 outline a plan for Taylor, 32, to resume “unsupervised parent time” with her and Tate’s two children after Tate recently sought to restructure their custody agreement. (Taylor and Tate share daughter Indy, 8, and son Ocean, 6. The reality star also shares son Ever, 2, with ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen.)

On Tuesday, June 30, Tate filed a request for a temporary restraining order in a Utah court to change the terms of his and Taylor’s divorce and custody agreement. He submitted text messages and calls as evidence that Taylor recently checked into a rehab center without telling him. (Us reported on July 1 that Taylor voluntarily entered a rehab facility for a short stay and has since left.)

Tate’s request was denied by the court on Wednesday, July 1, because more information was needed. (Tate resubmitted an amended request the following day.)

Related: Mormon Wives’ Taylor Frankie Paul and Ex Tate Paul’s Relationship Timeline

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star Taylor Frankie Paul made rare comments about her relationship with ex-husband Tate Paul after their divorce. Taylor and Tate got married in 2016 and expanded their family twice before being involved in a “soft swinging” sex scandal. The controversy involved Taylor and Tate hooking up with couples — […]

“As Tate himself recognizes, many of his supporting allegations are based upon inadmissible hearsay, without any corroborating evidence,” court documents from July 1 read. “Many of the concerns, like the children not doing well in school and expressing sadness will require ongoing attention not remedied with an emergency order changing custody.”

The filing continued, “The court acknowledges that what he is allegedly hearing can create anxiety, but contrary to the claim that the children are in immediate danger, Taylor proffers that Tate left the children with her from June 11 through the 17, 2026, while he went to Iceland. The court cannot find an immediate and irreparable harm as contemplated by Rule 65A, and the motion is denied.”

These new court rulings from a Utah judge addressed Tate’s assertion that “recent events” caused the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to look into the welfare of his and Taylor’s children.

“Not only is this hearsay, the court needs some idea as to when and what happened and what steps DCFS has taken,” the filing read. “The only allegations are that ‘DCFS communications made the emergency nature of the risk clear.’ This is a conclusion. The court needs facts as to what supports the conclusion that there is an emergency.”

Tate’s affidavit claimed that he “learned” from a family member that Taylor recently had a voluntary stay in rehab.

“Tate asks the court to consider the pattern of behavior over several years, arguing that the pattern is about to explode,” a Utah judge responded. “He is very concerned about Taylor’s admission to the Alpine Recovery Lodge, and Taylor’s allegedly lying about the reason for the stay.”

His affidavit also indicated that the production teams working with Taylor have “had it” with her. (Mormon Wives producer Jeff Jensen said in May that he was “very hopeful” that she’d resume filming on the show soon following a break in season 5 production.)

“There are many reasons for a production team to become frustrated with the talent. Foundation and details are lacking,” the judge wrote.

The court acknowledged that Taylor “made two offers” in an attempt to resolve Tate’s concerns over “Taylor’s admission to the Alpine Recovery Lodge, and [her] allegedly lying about the reason for the stay.”

Taylor agreed to share her treatment records with the DCFS and offered to take a drug test. (Taylor initially asked for Tate to take a drug test as well but the judge found no cause to “order Tate to take a drug test.”)

The court accepted Taylor’s proposal, provided that the DCFS “wishes to review her treatment records” and that she submit to a “15 panel hair or nail test” as well as a “Peth test for alcohol.”

“If it is negative, Tate shall reimburse her. … She must take her prescriptions with her and have a doctor verify that the levels in her system are consistent with her prescribed dosage,” the ruling read.

The results of Taylor’s sobriety tests will be subject to “a strict protective order.”

“Until such time as the results have been issued, Taylor’s parent time shall be supervised. It is in both parties’ best interests that this supervision be professional so that there is an independent third party observing the interactions between mother and child,” a judge ruled.

However, the judge added, “If there is a positive test for any unprescribed drugs or alcohol or a determination that the levels in Taylor’s system are in excess of any prescribed drugs, Taylor’s parent time shall continue to be supervised … If the results are negative, Taylor will be restored to her unsupervised parent time.”

Us has reached out to Taylor’s representatives for comment.

Following the court’s initial denial of Tate’s request for a restraining order, Taylor wrote via her Instagram Story on Friday, July 3, that she’d spent the day “crying and fighting for my 2 older children.”

“[The kids] had returned yesterday after being withheld and they were expressing how excited they were to spend this year with me doing fireworks,” she wrote “Their dad even told me we could EXTEND it to Monday so I relayed them the exciting news just for him to take it back? It was lies to them and my gut was wrenching to witness them cry, confused and asking why…”

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Taylor subsequently defended her decision to attend rehab, insisting that she wanted to “clear up any rumors.”

“I knew that I was in a spot to take a step back and be like, ‘OK, we need to reset,’” Paul said. “But facilities are not for just substance. … There are a list of reasons why people go into that. Number one priority was just a reset for my mental health, and to get away, decompress, whether it’s one day, whether it’s seven, whether it’s 30. I willingly did that.”

The Mormon Wives star clapped back at those who “judged” her for seeking treatment, saying, “It kind of bums me out that [it was] kind of weaponized against me, actually doing the right thing of noticing I needed extra help, and whatever that may be.”

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“I ended up finding a really good antidepressant that has been working for me,” she continued. “I will share the meds eventually, however, I like to trial and error before I talk about them because it takes a while to set in, and I would hate to be recommending something that I don’t even like myself.”

Her legal battle with Tate comes amid her ongoing conflict with ex-boyfriend Mortensen. The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 5 production was suspended in March when Utah’s Draper City Police Department investigated domestic violence allegations involving both Taylor and Morstenson. Prosecutors chose not to pursue criminal charges. (ABC also pulled Taylor’s season of The Bachelorette from its schedule at the time.)

Both filed restraining orders against each other, with a judge giving Mortensen temporary custody of Ever in March. A judge later lifted Taylor’s supervised visitation with Ever, though she and Mortensen were ordered to stay away 100 feet from each other for a period of three years. (Taylor and Mortensen are scheduled to appear in court again on Wednesday, July 8.)

Steven “Steve” McBee Sr. made his first appearance on The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys after being MIA for all of season 3 and prior to serving his jail sentence.

During the Monday, July 6, episode of the Bravo series, Steve’s third son, Cole McBee, prepared to propose to longtime girlfriend Kacie Adkison. When the big moment came, Steve, 53, surprised fans when he was seen in the room with his entire family to witness the surprise proposal, which took place in November 2025 — one month before Steve reported to prison.

Fans spotted Steve in the crowd among his other sons, Steven McBee Jr., Jesse McBee and Brayden McBee, as well as his ex-wife, Kristi McBee, who all watched the magical moment from a room that overlooked a romantic gazebo.

At one point, viewers saw Steve holding his granddaughter Summer, whom Jesse shares with Alli McBee.

After the proposal — and Kacie’s enthusiastic“yes” — the happy couple reunited with their loved ones, at which point Steve was seen cheering the engaged couple alongside friends and family.

He was then spotted coming over to see his other granddaughter Blair, whom Cole, 26, and Kacie welcomed in December 2024, and enjoying the moment.

“Having all of our family and friends here, especially my dad is the best thing ever,” Cole told the cameras after he popped the question. “Life will really be changing a lot when my dad goes away and I just wanted to propose while he was still here and can enjoy this with everybody.”

Steve’s cameo was a rare sighting for fans, who last saw the McBee Farm & Cattle ranch founder during season 2 when he attended Jesse and Alli’s wedding. (The couple tied the knot in October 2024 and the episode aired in September 2025.)

Steve was previously a main character on McBee Dynasty during season 1, but after a major deal with his car washes fell through, he temporarily left the ranch.

“We’re on our own. Dad’s leaving. All he said is, he has no idea when he’s going to be back,” Steven told his brothers during the March 2024 episode. “He said he’s not in the right mental state to be running this farm.”

Steve continued to live his life off camera during most of season 2 as eldest son Steven, 33, took over as CEO of the family business. Behind the scenes, Steve was facing legal drama as he and the farm were under investigation.

In November 2024, Steve pleaded guilty to a multimillion-dollar fraud scam using federal crop insurance. The rancher was charged with one count of federal crop insurance fraud after allegedly receiving insurance benefits based on false totals from the family’s corn and soybean crops in 2018. Steve was also accused of fraud in 2019 and 2020.

Steve was sentenced in October 2025 to two years in prison with an additional two years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $4,022,124 in restitution and to self-surrender on December 1, 2025, to begin his prison term.

While Steve didn’t appear on the season 3 premiere of the McBee Dynasty in June, fans did learn his fate as Steve’s children attended his sentencing and spoke about it on camera.

During the premiere, fans learned that in addition to the $4 million in restitution he owed, Steve was ordered to pay $3 million in fines, which the family was not expecting.

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“It’s the worst feeling I’ve ever felt. I don’t know where the $7 million is going to come from,” Cole told the cameras.

Steven also commented on the bombshell, saying, “It’s the damn monetary amount that I’m very concerned [about]. December 1? That gives us what, six weeks [with him].”

The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys airs on Bravo Mondays at 9 p.m. ET.

Steven “Steve” McBee Sr. was thrust into the limelight during season 1 of The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys — but soon his legal woes were making headlines.

Fans met Steve and his four sons, Steven McBee Jr., Jesse McBee, Cole McBee and Brayden McBee, during the first season of the reality show in 2024 as they took viewers inside their lives running McBee Farm & Cattle in Missouri. Once the cameras stopped rolling, tragedy struck the family after Steve pleaded guilty in November 2024 for his involvement in a multimillion-dollar fraud scam using federal crop insurance.

During season 2 of the Bravo series, Steven took over the farm and slowly let his brothers in on their big secret: their father was under FBI investigation. In October 2025, Steve was sentenced to two years in prison.

When the cameras picked up for season 3, it was the day before Steve’s sentencing — and two months ahead of the date he surrendered to prison. Steve appeared on camera during a July 2026 episode, which filmed one month before he began his jail sentence in December 2025.

Scroll down for everything we know about Steve’s legal issues:

When Did Fans Last See Steve on ‘The McBee Dynasty’?

During the season 1 finale, which aired in March 2024, CFO Galyna Saltkovska told Steve that she failed to secure a deal with investors to expand their carwash business. The pair’s romantic relationship also reached a breaking point that led Steve to drink too much at their annual post-harvest farming celebration.

When the episode came to an end, Steven informed his brothers, “We’re on our own. Dad’s leaving. All he said is, he has no idea when he’s going to be back. He said he’s not in the right mental state to be running this farm.”

Steve was noticeably absent the majority of the Bravo series’ second season, which premiered in June 2025. He made his first appearance of the season during an August 2025 episode when he met his sons in Nashville. Steve was also present for the season finale, which documented son Jesse’s wedding.

During the season 3 premiere, which aired in June 2026, Steve’s sentencing in his fraud case was a major story line. While he didn’t appear on camera, his sons all reacted to his two-year sentencing, which was handed down in October 2025. He was, however, part of Cole and Kacie Adkison’s engagement celebration that was featured during a July 2026 episode.

When Was He Charged — And What Did He Allegedly Do?

In November 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office Western District of Missouri announced in a press release that Steve was charged with one count of federal crop insurance fraud. Steve was accused of making a false report to insurance provider Rain and Hill in 2018, where he underreported his “corn crop by approximately 674,812 bushels” and “his total 2018 soybean crop by approximately 155,833 bushels,” per the DOJ.

Steve allegedly received more than $2.6 million in federal crop insurance benefits plus an additional $552,000 in federal crop insurance premium subsidies after providing the false numbers.

The DOJ further claimed that Steve committed fraud in 2019 and 2020. He allegedly misrepresented that his soybean crops were “the first crop in certain fields” in 2019, when he was also using the same space to grow wheat. When he allegedly decided to double crop, the DOJ argued he was “not entitled” to the insurance claim he filed.

In 2020, Steve allegedly planted corn after the last planting date that year and then gave NAU Country Insurance “false plant dates” to fraudulently obtain a new insurance policy.

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The McBee Dynasty brothers vowed to show “the good, the bad, the ugly” on their reality show — including their unfiltered reactions to dad Steve McBee’s FBI investigation. “It’s really, really tough because that is constantly at the forefront of your mind, no matter what you’re doing,” eldest son Steven McBee Jr. exclusively told Us […]

Did He Plead Guilty?

Steve pleaded guilty in November 2024, confessing that his farm sold “more than 1.2 million bushels of corn and nearly 416,000 bushels of soybeans” to another party in 2018, according to the press release.

According to the press release, Steve signed a plea deal where he agreed to pay restitution that will be determined by the court. The government allegedly lost more than $4 million and Steve was estimated to owe more than $3.1 million in restitution.

When Was He Sentenced?

Steve waived his right to a grand jury when he signed his plea deal in November 2024 and was facing up to 30 years in a federal prison without parole.

His sentencing was originally slated for March 2025 but was rescheduled to June and later September of that year. News broke in September 2025 that Steve’s sentencing had been delayed for a fourth time and was set for October 16, 2025.

A judge sentenced Steve to 24 months in prison with an additional two years of supervised release, according to court documents obtained by Us. Steve was ordered to pay $4,022,124 in restitution. He had to self-surrender on December 1, 2025, to begin his prison term.

During the season 3 premiere of McBee Dynasty, which aired in June 2026, Steve’s sentencing was highlighted. Fans learned that in addition to the $4 million in restitution, he was ordered to pay $3 million in fines.

How Did ‘The McBee Dynasty’ Explain His Season 2 Absence?

During the season 2 premiere in June 2025, which filmed in late summer 2024, the cast talked about Steve, but he wasn’t on the show. “He just up and skipped town,” employee Tessa told the cameras of her boss during the episode.

Later in the season, the boys said Steve was traveling with his new girlfriend, Masha, internationally.

How Did Steve’s Family Learn About the FBI Investigation?

Galyna let it slip during season 2, episode 3, that Steve was under investigation by the FBI. At the time, his eldest son, Steven, confirmed that only he, Galyna, and Steve’s ex-wife, Kristi McBee, knew about the investigation. “My dad is under FBI investigation, and you are the only one, and my mom that even knows this is going on. So, this has to stay between us,” Steven told Galyna during the episode, which aired in July 2025.

Steven then told the cameras, “This FBI investigation is wearing on my dad. He didn’t want anything with his involvement affect[ing] any of us boys. My brothers don’t even know about it.”

Steven’s now-ex girlfriend Calah Jackson revealed during season 2, episode 6, that he confided in her about Steve’s legal troubles.

Steven’s younger brothers eventually learned about the scandal while taping season 2. “It was a shell shock just seeing the weight that Steven had been [dealing with],” Jesse exclusively told Us Weekly in July 2025. “It made a lot of things make a lot more sense, just the way that Steven was stressed out and we were trying to figure out why we thought we knew all of his stresses, and obviously he was holding that in and bearing that weight on his shoulders.”

Related: McBee Dynasty’s Steven McBee Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Scam

PEACOCK The McBee Dynasty star Steven “Steve” McBee has pleaded guilty to a multimillion-dollar fraud scam using federal crop insurance. According to a November 5 press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office Western District of Missouri, McBee, 52, was charged with one count of federal crop insurance fraud. The McBee Farming Operations owner allegedly received […]

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What Have Steve’s Sons Said About His Trial?

Since Steve pleaded guilty to the insurance scam, the family has welcomed two new members. Cole and his girlfriend, Kacie, welcomed their first baby, daughter Blair, in December 2024. Jesse and his wife, Alli McBee, welcomed their daughter, Summer, in April 2025.

While the family was worried about Steve’s fate, Jesse and Steven exclusively told Us in July 2025 that they were focusing on the little moments.

“We’ve leaned into family. We take it day by day,” Steven said. “The situation is still ongoing. We’re hoping to have it wrapped up and have some finality to it before the end of the year. That’s the goal, just so we can move on and say, ‘OK, we’ve got this figured out. We can start life again now.’”

He added, “The hard part about it is it’s so unknown. We don’t know what it’s going to look like, so we’re preparing. We’re eating dinner together as a family with my dad, including my mom driving up to the farm three to four nights a week, enjoying the time with the grand babies. Just really cherishing time as a family because we don’t know what it’s going to look like afterwards.”

Was Steve Featured During Season 3?

Season 3 of the Bravo series premiered in June 2026, picking up 24 hours before Steve’s sentencing. While Steve wasn’t shown during the episode, his sentencing hearing and the fate of the family with him behind bars was a major topic.

“It’s the worst feeling I’ve ever felt. I don’t know where the $7 million is going to come from,” Cole said after learning his dad owed $4 million in restitution and $3 million in fines.

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Steven was equally worried, telling his siblings, “It’s the damn monetary amount that I’m very concerned [about]. December 1? That gives us what, six weeks [with him].”

Steve’s sons decided to sell their facility to help pay the debt and make sure banks didn’t start calling to collect on their loans.

One month after he was sentenced, Steve reunited with his family on camera for son Cole’s engagement celebration. The episode taped in November 2025 and aired in July 2026, showing Steve with his sons, ex-wife Kristi and their granddaughters raising a glass to Cole and Kacie’s relationship milestone.

SZA is opening up about a deeply personal part of her life. The Grammy-winning singer recently revealed that she was formally diagnosed with autism by medical professionals at 36 years old. The diagnosis also provided clarity, leading SZA to realize that some of her behaviors could be attributed to autism.

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Critically acclaimed singer-songwriter SZA, born Solána Imani Rowe, shared an update about a recent diagnosis. On her burner Instagram account, she posted a photo of a medical report showing she had been recently diagnosed with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s.

“Finally took the time n got formally diagnosed… Asperger’s / high functioning autism / smarter than u n—-s so stop playing in my face cause pattern recognition told me and I WILL get to the bottom if [sic] it thanks,” the singer wrote in the caption.

High-functioning autism is the informal term used for people who are on the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with low support needs, which means they could go about basic life skills without assistance, per WebMD. Asperger’s syndrome refers to a high-functioning form of autism.

The summary SZA shared read, in part, “Solana has a qualitative impairment in reciprocal social interaction, as both self-reported and observed by this examiner. Her mother also noted these traits when Solana was a child, although they were not as evident.”

The Singer Attributed Her AI Take On Her Diagnosis

Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how someone interacts, learns, communicates, and sees the world. While autistic individuals have a wide range of intelligence, research shows that 40 percent of those with autism display above-average IQ, and those with Asperger’s syndrome mostly have strong verbal skills.

SZA’s diagnostic evaluation found that she exhibited a “superior range in fluid reasoning” and scored in the “gifted range” for linguistic abilities.

The singer added to her post, writing, “pretty sure this is why I’m taking Ai so personally btw lol. And also why I’m in every comment section.” SZA was referring to her recent take on AI, in which she called out musicians who support the “degenerate” technology, as previously reported by The Blast.

SZA Also Has Anxiety

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SZA’s report said the singer experiences a “severe degree of anxiety,” which she revealed in the past.

On “Community Voices” in 2022, the singer shared her experiences in the industry and talked about mental health. SZA said she enjoys what she does as a music artist, but also feels pressure and exhaustion from all the work.

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“The exhaustion really comes from expectations, berating, and dehumanizing from outside forces. And that sh-t makes me feel like, ‘Why am I doing this? Why would I set myself up to be bodied like this on a regular basis?” she said.

SZA shared how anxious she gets, citing how she felt at the 2022 MET Gala when she found herself unable to walk down the grand staircase to leave. Instead, she “snuck out the back” and grabbed a cab to go back to her hotel. “I was just overwhelmed. I had too much anxiety to wait for my cab in front of the crowd.”

SZA Once Said The Internet Was ‘Demonic’

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For Mental Health Awareness Month in 2022, SZA temporarily deactivated her TikTok and posted the announcement on Instagram Stories, urging her followers to do the same, as reported by Hot New Hip Hop. “Get off the internet. The internet is demonic,” the singer said, adding that everyone should “delete anything” that doesn’t serve them.

Before that, SZA lashed back at online trolls who criticized her for attending the MET Gala when she said she would no longer attend public events before her album, “SOS,” was completed. “Y’all suck the joy and life out of EVERYTHING. Thank God for purpose cause Outside of art it’s f-ck y’all. Now run w that,” she wrote.

Other Entertainers With Autism

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Through the years, some celebrities have shared their own diagnoses.

In 2021, “Prison Break” star Wentworth Miller revealed his formal autism diagnosis via Instagram, noting that while he was “shocked,” he wasn’t surprised. The actor added that he didn’t know much about autism, but he was focusing on “re-examining 5 decades of lived experience thru a new lens.”

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“SNL” alum and “Ghostbusters” star Dan Aykroyd is also on the spectrum and has been open about his diagnosis. He shared one of his symptoms was his “obsession” with cops and ghosts. “I carry around a police badge with me, for example. I became obsessed by Hans Holzer, the greatest ghost hunter ever. That’s when the idea of my film Ghostbusters was born,” he shared.

SZA’s revelation received public support, with fans commending the singer for using her platform to help destigmatize neurodivergence.

By Jonathan Klotz
| Updated 3 minutes ago

Over the weekend, Obsession crossed the $400 million mark at the global box office. It’s notable because the film written and directed by Curry Barker cost $750,000 to make, making it one of the most profitable films in history, but also because that means it has officially surpassed Supergirl ($100 million), Thunderbolts ($382 million), and by the end of the month, is projected to beat Captain America: Brave New World ($415 million). The days of Marvel turning B-tier and even D-tier characters into nearly a billion dollar movies are long over and the younger audiences are flocking back to horror in the pursuit of something new and different. 

Obsession Is Young And Hip, Superheroes Are Old And Broken

Obsession dared to tell a different type of story. Sort of. Monkey’s Paw morality stories are a dime a dozen but by leaning into toxic relationships and turning Bear (Michael Johnston) into a horrible person, Barker found the right twist on a classic. It helps that Inde Naverrette as Nikki gave the role her all with one of the year’s best performances. Compare young and hungry up-and-coming stars both behind and in front of the camera to the routine, predictable, superhero movies of the last two years and there’s no wonder younger audiences have made their choice. 

Thunderbolts dared to do something different within the Marvel formula by focusing on the damaged psychological states of its villainous heroes. It’s Marvel’s best movie in years but it was damaged by years of disappointing films and an entire phase of films that feel like they have no reason to exist. At the end of the day, it’s still a superhero movie. 

DC’s latest in the reborn universe under James Gunn is disappointing. Supergirl had the potential to be something different and daring. Woman of Tomorrow by Tom King is the best arc for the character and Milly Alcock is an inspired choice for Superman’s cousin, yet the end result is a very brown movie that lacks the wonder and amazement of Gunn’s own Guardians of the Galaxy. 

Marvel And DC Have To Go Back To The Drawing Board

There’s a lot of lessons Hollywood should learn from the success of Obsession, and none of them will stick. Marvel has Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Avengers: Doomsday hitting theaters this year, both of which will be massive hits. The problem is what comes after them. Marvel is going to reset after Secret Wars, but will anyone still care by then? 

James Gunn’s decision to make Clayface, written by the modern King of Horror Mike Flanagan and directed by James Watkins, two people far removed from the superhero sphere of influence, is a huge gamble that can pay off big for Warner Bros. It’s closer to Obsession than it is to Superman, and maybe can bridge the gap between the horror-seeking younger audience and the older-skewing superhero audience. 

No matter how the major studios decide to move forward, Obsession is a sign that the world has changed. The superhero formula isn’t working as well as it used to when Captain Marvel and Aquaman both broke a billion. The younger audience is demanding something different, something new, and until Disney and Warner Bros figure out what that is, get used to very expensive VFX-filled superhero throwdowns to lose out to the likes of Sirenhead. 

Ariana Grande‘s relationship status is causing major buzz after she was spotted hanging out with her ex, Ricky Alvarez.

The pair enjoyed the holidays by doing some grocery shopping, but fans believe the outing has a hidden meaning to it.

The singer recently split from her partner of almost three years, Ethan Slater, as she kickstarted her highly anticipated Eternal Sunshine Tour.

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Grande and Alvarez spent the 4th of July weekend together and were caught on a quick errand to Whole Foods for some grocery shopping.

The pair looked at ease in each other’s company, with the songstress rocking a casual grey sweater with jeans and flats while Alvarez opted for a white polo and dark blue jeans.

In photos obtained by TMZ, Alvarez played the perfect gentleman, carrying all the groceries and loading them into the vehicle. Per the outlet, the friendly exes were on their way to Grande’s parents’ house in Boca Raton for the Independence Day holiday.

Fans React To Ariana Grande And Ricky Alvarez’s Sighting

Grande and Alvarez’s outing quickly made headlines, and eagle-eyed fans noticed that it brought back memories of the former lovers from a decade ago.

Back in 2016, when the pair were an item, they were photographed by JustJared on a grocery store run to Whole Foods. Similar to that time, the “POV” singer wore a sweater and pants, and her then-boyfriend rocked a white shirt and jeans ensemble.

“We’re quite literally back in 2016,” one fan gushed, while another noted, “Decade later and they’re still doing the Whole Foods run together? That’s not a coincidence; that’s a plot twist we all signed up for.”

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A third comment read, “Guess they finally found the perfect aisle for a reunion.” However, some fans suspected it wasn’t just a case of history repeating itself.

“Finally good PR over her relationship status, but it’s kinda sad because people are just happy because Ricky is attractive,” one Internet user speculated.

A similar remark read, “This is nothing but marketing. Just wait. No genuinely happy celeb couple tries this hard to get photographed.”

The Singer Changed Lyrics For Her Ex-Boyfriend

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The duo’s rekindled friendship comes as no surprise, as they have been hanging out for weeks now, with Alvarez even making an appearance at the Austin, Texas, stop of her show.

As reported by E! News, during the June 26 show, which happened to be Grande’s birthday, she honored her ex-boyfriend’s presence by switching up her lyrics.

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While singing her hit tune, “Thank U, Next,” the 33-year-old belted, “Wrote some songs about Ricky / I know he still got my back,” changing the last part from “Now I listen and laugh.”

Social media clips from the concert showed Alvarez shyly smiling while interacting with Grande’s parents, who were also in the audience.

Grande Remains Friendly With Ex Ethan Slater After Split

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Grande and Alvarez’s tongue-wagging reunion comes less than a month after her split from her “Wicked” co-star Ethan Slater was confirmed.

According to The Blast, the pair called it quits after nearly three years together, with a close source saying the breakup was far from tumultuous.

“It’s amicable; they gave lots of time and careful consideration and decided to go their separate ways,” claimed the insider, who added that the exes remain friends and are “very supportive.”

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The source added that the Nickelodeon alum was doing “great” after the split, with her focus on the tour and her upcoming album, “Petal.”

Fans may recall that Grande and Slater became an item in late 2022 while filming “Wicked” amid her failed marriage to Dalton Gomez.

Ariana Grande’s Breakup Speaks To Distributing Relationship Trend

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Following the end of her romance with Slater, close sources dissected what seemed to be a pattern in Grande’s romantic life.

The informant explained that it is typical for the songstress to fall hard and be completely consumed with her romantic interest at the start. However, once major career opportunities come her way, her focus shifts away.

“The person she’s with gets her full attention, and it’s easy to get swept up in that. But then something shifts. That’s a pattern people around her have seen play out more than once,” the source said, per The Blast.

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