Entertainment
Ed Sheeran’s Cousin Calls Singer a ‘Coward’ Amid Controversy
Ed Sheeran’s cousin is publicly condemning his famous family member amid the controversy surrounding the decision to unceremoniously remove Macklemore from the singer’s Loop Tour for his unapologetic support of the Palestinian people.
“Finally it’s all coming out! I’m ashamed of my Cousin Ed,” the singer’s cousin, Jethro Sheeran, wrote via Instagram on Thursday, September 17. “Finally the world and all his fans see through him. He’s not a good person, I don’t like his music so I can’t say he’s even a good artist.”
Jethro continued, “He’s honestly a selfish individual with malicious, cunning ways. ‘He kills you with kindness’ (His Words) I’m his first blood cousin and he screwed me over, made fun of my mental health and mental health in general.”
Jethro, a British musician known professionally as Alonestar, is the son of John Sheeran, Ed’s father’s brother. Known for his work in the hip-hop, urban, reggae and electronic music genres, Jethro went on to allege that his cousin hurt him professionally and financially before, again, taking aim at the controversy surrounding Macklemore’s recent removal from his tour.
Ed Sheeran returned to his Loop Tour after opening act Macklemore was dropped from the lineup for making pro-Palestinian remarks onstage. “Before I play some songs tonight, I hope it’s okay if I say a few words about this last week,” Sheeran, 35, told fans during the Saturday, September 19, concert at the Lincoln Financial […]
“He is shady and he’s dropped Macklemore himself I believe 100% he’s a coward,” Ed’s cousin alleged. “In my opinion he’s a bad human. Just my opinion from my experiences. I’ve known him all my life and started him in music, took him on my stage. Took him to my first studio, Rapped on his early songs and did all I could to help him. Even when he was bullied at school. He only cared about himself and he puts out fake narrative[s] that’s calculated just to keep everyone happy so he can do big private gigs and keep brand deals.”
Ed Sheeran, Macklemore Getty Images
He continued, “That’s my honest opinion and I’m family!! He’s not a true Sheeran! Don’t hate on a Sheeran because of this silly little boy.”
Us reached out to reps for Ed for comment regarding his cousin’s claims.
The singer found himself at the center of controversy after headlining two concerts at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey earlier this month, where Macklemore, 43, was one of three opening acts.
During both of the “Thrift Shop” rapper’s sets, he chanted “Free Palestine” and played his 2024 protest song “Hind’s Hall” in opposition to Israel and the United States’ military campaign in Gaza following the Oct. 7, 2023 terrorist attacks. (According to UN reports, at least 20,000 children have been killed and more than 44,000 have been injured in Gaza at the time of publication and as result of the war.)
After alleged pressure from stadiums hosting Loop Tour fall shows, Sheeran’s tour promoter dismissed Macklemore from the lineup ahead of his remaining eight scheduled gigs.
“Ed Sheeran and his team have made the decision to remove me from the Loop Tour. I am not a victim. Ed Sheeran is not a victim,” Macklemore wrote in a social media statement shared on Monday, September 14. “We have careers, money, opportunities, safety and audiences around the world. Whatever consequences any of us face for what we say, we get to go home to our families.”
Ed Sheeran performed with a new backing band during his Saturday, September 19, concert after his previous team left the Loop Tour in solidarity with Macklemore’s controversial departure. “There are certain songs that just don’t work on the loop pedal,” Sheeran, 35, said during his Philadelphia concert, per social media footage shared by Billboard. “So, […]
During his first concert since Macklemore was dropped — and all the remaining opening acts exited the tour in solidarity — Ed addressed the controversy, apologizing for his shortcomings and admitting he’s “still learning.”
“Before I play some songs tonight, I hope it’s okay if I say a few words about this last week,” Sheeran, 35, told fans during the Saturday, September 19, concert at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, per widely-circulated videos via social media. “I’m used to my music being criticized, and I’m always happy to take that because I’m lucky. A lot of you like my stuff, and to be honest, I’m surprised. I’m not surprised that I’ve even done it. You know, it’s normal.”
He went on to say, “This week, the criticism was about something much more important, and I’ve had to take [it in] and make difficult decisions, and I am making mistakes, and I’m so so sorry.”
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HBO has never been particularly interested in making television that stays in one lane. After all, the network is responsible for prestige dramas, bleak thrillers, sprawling fantasies, and some of the most miserable families ever put on screen. However, it also knows how to make a show that’s just an absolute hoot to watch. Sometimes that means rapid-fire comedy and outrageous situations, while other times it comes from spectacular action or a cast that’s simply having the time of its life.
As such, these are the shows that bring something different to the table, whether it’s a period drama, a vigilante tale, or a political comedy. At the end of the day, they’re funny, energetic, wildly entertaining, and most importantly, the kind of shows that make it very easy to hit “next episode.” So, if you find yourself sitting in a little funk, do yourself a favor and click on one of these.
8
‘Warrior’ (2019–2023)
Set in San Francisco’s Chinatown in the late 19th century, Ah Sahm (Andrew Koji) is a martial arts prodigy who arrives from China in search for his missing sister. Unfortunately, his plans go devastatingly awry when he’s suddenly sold to one of Chinatown’s most powerful tongs, forcing him to navigate through a violent struggle for power in a town filled with rival gangs and corrupt politicians.
Combining brutal action with intense drama and a surprisingly playful sense of humor, it’s no wonder that Warrior is a huge blast to watch. The fight scenes are, of course, a major draw, and yet the show’s willingness to bounce between gang warfare, institutional corruption, and community dysfunction is what keeps it from becoming one-note. Plus, this show is based on an original concept by Bruce Lee himself—a fact that naturally brings an irreverent energy to the project’s core.
7
‘Peacemaker’ (2022–2025)
After surviving the events of The Suicide Squad, Chris Smith (John Cena)—better known as the brutal vigilante Peacemaker—is forced to join a black-ops team on the mysterious Project Butterfly. Here, he and his mismatched team of operatives must stop a mysterious alien invasion that soon becomes a threat far stranger than anything they expected.
In true James Gunn fashion, Peacemaker finds its magic by turning a ridiculous superhero into the center of a surprisingly heartfelt comedy—all without sanding away everything that makes him awful. Leaning into Peacemaker’s macho posturing, bizarre musical tastes, and dysfunctional relationships is what helps create endless opportunities for comedy. It’s also a plus that the rest of the team is a collection of equally entertaining foils. Just look at the vibrancy (and commitment) to the opening title dance sequence. That alone highlights the tone of this show.
6
‘Our Flag Means Death’ (2022–2023)
In the 18th century, wealthy aristocrat Stede Bonnet (Rhys Darby) grows tired of his privileged (and very cushy) life. As a result, he abandons everything and decides to become a pirate even though he has absolutely no idea what to do. But now, after assembling an equally unconventional crew for his ship, Stede must quickly figure things out, especially as he soon crosses paths with the legendary pirate Blackbeard (Taiki Waititi).
There’s no doubt that the show’s greatest strength is the sheer ridiculousness of its pirate world. Waititi’s Blackbeard is less a fearsome pirate than a bored celebrity in need of a new direction, while Darby’s Stede approaches piracy with the enthusiasm of someone organizing a particularly ill-advised dinner party. The result is a warm, absurd comedy where swashbuckling, disastrous schemes, and surprisingly sincere conversations about identity and love can all exist in the same episode. If only Our Flag Means Death didn’t fall victim to the cancelation curse.
5
‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ (2000–2024)
As a fictionalized version of himself, Larry David is a successful television writer and producer whose life would probably be much easier if he simply stopped arguing with everyone. Instead, Larry has a remarkable talent for turning minor social annoyances into full-blown disasters, whether he’s dealing with friends, family, celebrities, or complete strangers.
Frankly, there’s no better fun than watching a person play an exaggerated version of themselves. And somehow David has managed to prolong that joke for over two decades—without running the humor dry. The loose improvisational style of Curb Your Enthusiasm has let audiences sit in the cringe of second-hand embarrassment, and sometimes people need that to escape their own reality. It also helps that this show has an endless parade of famous cameos to ensure the formula rarely feels repetitive.
4
‘Sex and the City’ (1998–2004)
Four best friends—columnist Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker), publicist Samantha Jones (Kim Cattrall), lawyer Miranda Hobbes (Cynthia Nixon), and gallery owner Charlotte York (Kristin Davis)—navigate the highs and lows of dating, friendships, careers, and sex in the bustling world of New York City.
It’s universally agreed upon that Sex and the City‘s fun comes from the chemistry between its leads and the sheer variety of disasters they find themselves in. Yes, Carrie may be the protagonist, but Samantha’s blunt confidence, Miranda’s cynicism, and Charlotte’s romantic idealism are what gives the group four very different perspectives on life. Add in the fashion, glamorous New York locations, outrageous one-liners, and sheer openness of conversations, and Sex and the City remains an endlessly iconic show about sisterhood as much as it is a romantic tale.
3
‘The Righteous Gemstones’ (2019–2025)
The Gemstone family is a wealthy and wildly dysfunctional evangelical dynasty led by televangelist Eli Gemstone (John Goodman). But just as the family attempts to expand their empire, various scandals, rivalries, criminals, and schemes threaten to tear the Gemstones apart—especially as Eli’s spoiled adult children bask in their lavish lifestyles and desires.
Few HBO comedies commit to a joke as completely as The Righteous Gemstones, with every character leaning right into the gloriously obnoxious arrogance of the titular family. Better still, the show has somehow mastered the act of escalation as a petty argument can somehow lead to kidnappings, shootouts, or other criminal conspiracies. Loud, outrageous, and littered with iconic musical numbers, The Righteous Gemstones is a sensory overload. But at least underneath all the religious hypocrisy and greed lies a tale of a complicated family that genuinely loves one another.
2
‘Hacks’ (2021–2026)
As legendary comedian Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) becomes in desperate need of a freshened-up act, she’s paired up with young comedy writer Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder), whose career has stalled after a controversial tweet. The two initially have almost nothing in common, but their professional relationship gradually develops into a complicated friendship as they push, frustrate, and occasionally sabotage one another.
There’s no better core to a comedy than a story of two wildly different personalities slowly realizing that they might actually need each other. Of course, this is perfectly executed thanks to Smart and Einbinder’s chemistry, whose constant bickering becomes ridiculously entertaining—especially when it’s balanced by pure moments of vulnerability. Laced with ruthless one-liners and hilarious cameos, Hacks has easily become one of the best modern comedies of the last few years. It’s sharp without becoming exhausting, and it really knows when to let a joke land through an awkward silence or an absurd situation.
1
‘Veep’ (2012–2019)
As former senator Selina Meyer (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) becomes Vice President of the United States, she quickly discovers that occupying one of the most powerful positions in the country doesn’t mean she actually gets to make any decisions. Surrounded by a staff of ambitious, insecure, and frequently incompetent political operatives, Selina spends her days navigating rival politicians, public scandals, diplomatic disasters, and her own increasingly desperate attempt to advance her career.
Who doesn’t love a political comedy—especially when it masterfully highlights how politics is an endless parade of petty grievances, backstabbing, and deeply avoidant individuals. Louis-Dreyfus gives Selina an extraordinary combination of confidence and panic, while the rest of the supporting cast make every conversation feel like it could descend into chaos at any moment. Veep is cynical, fast, relentlessly profane, and packed with enough memorable zingers to make even the most mundane crisis hilarious. Think of this as one of HBO’s most timeless shows, especially with it bizarrely starting to emulate our current reality.
Self-proclaimed Swiftie Nikki Glaser called out Taylor Swift haters while praising the pop star’s husband in a new Sunday Night Football hype video.
“When you’re on top of your game, everybody roots for your downfall,” the comedian, 42, says in the video, scheduled to air ahead of the Sunday, September 20, matchup between Kelce’s Kansas City Chiefs and the Indianapolis Colts, per The Kansas City Star, the first outlet to report on the video and its contents.
“People love a winner — until they win too much. People want dynasties to die and for chaps to become chumps. And when that downfall finally comes, it hurts like a Tush Push you weren’t expecting,” Glaser reportedly adds, referring to the controversial football move originated by the Philadelphia Eagles, Kelce’s brother, Jason Kelce‘s, old NFL team. “But without the downfall, you don’t get the thing that people love most of all: The comeback.”
The comedian reportedly continues in the video, “And for Chiefs Kingdom, the comeback starts now. You can never count out the Chiefs. Are you seriously not starting [Patrick] Mahomes and Kelce in your fantasy leagues this year? Oh, so you love losing? OK. You think you’re done seeing Andy Reid in chicken commercials? I don’t want to live in that world, and you know [Chris] Collinsworth is gonna keep gushing over Mahomes changing his arm angle. I mean, boy crushes like that are forever.”
Sportscaster Peter Schrager is preemptively shutting down the “dads, Brads and Chads” up in arms about Taylor Swift’s attendance at the 2024-2025 NFL season games. “Taylor’s been a wonderful addition to the NFL [and] it was a wonderful addition to our show,” Shrager, who hosts Fox Sports’ NFL Kickoff and NFL Network, said during an […]
The comedian, known best for her savage and hilarious roasting capabilities, then reportedly takes aim at the “dads, Brads and Chads” who have a problem with the NFL cameras consistently panning to the superstar when she’s attending her now-husband’s games in person.
“And it’s safe to say the world’s greatest singer-songwriter is now a permanent fixture at Arrowhead,” Glaser says. “And I speak for all Swifties when I say we want more cutaways. So here we go, Kansas City. Tonight we take on the Colts. Before you know it, we’ll be back on top, and then the rest of you can go back to hating us all over again.”
Swift, who said “I do” to the future Hall of Fame tight end in July at the famed Madison Square Garden in front of 1,000 of the pair’s closest friends and family members, attended the Chiefs’ season-opening win against 31-10 win against the Denver Broncos on Monday, September 14, alongside Tom Cruise who, yes, was present when the pair wed.
Comedian Nikki Glaser is a major Swiftie, which includes supporting both Taylor Swift’s career and her relationship with football player Travis Kelce. Swift, 34, publicly praised Kelce, also 34, on Wednesday, September 11, when she won Video of the Year at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards. Swift had said that “[her] boyfriend, Travis” would […]
“She was schooling me on football. She was bringing the football [knowledge],” Cruise said of the experience during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Thursday, September 17.
Cruise added at the time, “Oh, she knows her stuff. She’s like, ‘This is like…’ I was like, ‘OK!’ She knew nothing about football when she met Travis. It was like her [saying], ‘What was it like playing against your brother, tackling each other?’ She said, ‘You know, he’s so patient.’ I said, ‘I’m sure he was!’ … She knows [football]. She’s just bringing it. She knows.”
For the uninitiated, Swift famously addressed the backlash over cameras frequently cutting to her in VIP suites during Kansas City Chiefs games in her December 2023 TIME‘s Person of the Year feature.
“I’m just there to support Travis,” she told the outlet at the time. “I have no awareness of if I’m being shown too much and pissing off a few dads, Brads, and Chads.”
Debbie Gibson is sending her support to friend Carrot Top after the comedian was hospitalized following an alleged suicide attempt.
“Sometimes it’s the ones who make us laugh the hardest who are hurting the most. Sending love to you, Scott 🧡@carrottoplive,” Gibson, 56, wrote via Instagram on Saturday, September 20, citing the comedian’s real name. “Scott Thompson a.k.a. Carrot Top is one of those people who will send you a video message at some random time just to let you know he’s thinking of you and to put a smile on your face.”
She continued, “I hadn’t heard from him in a little longer than usual, so [I] reached out literally two days ago. I figured he’d reply this week as he often does post-show weekend, so I didn’t think anything of it when I didn’t hear back right away.”
Carrot Top, 61, was hospitalized in Las Vegas on Friday, September 18. As a result, his Friday and Saturday comedy shows were subsequently canceled. (Carrot Top has headlined a residency at Las Vegas’ Luxor Casino since 2005.)
Comedian Carrot Top has been hospitalized. “Mr. Thompson is recovering in the hospital and is receiving the care and support he needs,” his rep, Jami Schlicher, told TheWrap in a Friday, September 18, statement, while using the 61-year-old comedy star’s real name, Scott Thompson. “His family and those closest to him are deeply grateful for […]
“Mr. Thompson is recovering in the hospital and is receiving the care and support he needs,” his rep, Jami Schlicher, said in a statement shared with multiple outlets, confirming the comedy star’s hospital stay. “His family and those closest to him are deeply grateful for the concern, prayers and respectfully ask for privacy.”
While further details have not been publicly shared, Carrot Top’s celebrity friends like Gibson have vocalized their support.
“Check on your friends, especially the ones who give and give and give as Scott does to his loved ones and his audiences,” the singer added on Saturday. “We are all here for you friend, and to anyone going through mental health issues … please know that I myself have a therapist on speed dial.”
Everybody Loves Raymond alum Brad Garrett is sharing his support for friend and fellow comedian Carrot Top after the performer was hospitalized following an alleged suicide attempt. “Oh my beautiful, talented friend @carrottoplive. We’re ALL thanking our lucky stars that you’re OK,” Garrett, 66, wrote via Instagram on Saturday, September 19, alongside a photo with […]
In her upload, Gibson also advocated for mental health treatment.
“I’ve used all kinds of modalities including medications when necessary. I continue to explore whatever is going to best help me stay safe and happy and healthy on all levels,” she noted. “Life is full of layers that nobody sees. There is no stigma in prioritizing your mental and emotional well being at all times!!!”
Gibson concluded, “This is a safe space and a loving community for all of you going through whatever you’re going through.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
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Fall is the perfect time to refresh your activewear drawer, especially if your current leggings and sports bras aren’t quite cutting it for workouts, travel and everyday plans. LDMA’s Contour Collection is designed to solve that wardrobe dilemma with elevated activewear that combines supportive fits, sculpting silhouettes and technical details without looking overly sporty.
The brand’s first-ever activewear line includes four foundational styles: the Contour Double Strap Sports Bra, Contour Sports V Bralette, Contour High Rise Legging and Contour High Rise Bike Short. Each piece comes in Black and Blue Fog and is made from medium-weight, quick-drying compressive fabric designed to move comfortably from the gym to the rest of your day.
Get the LDMA Contour Collection at LDMA!
The Contour High Rise Legging is a versatile staple that can pull double duty in your fall wardrobe. The mid/high-rise design is side-seam-free and features bum-contouring shaping, an extended gusset and a sculpted, second-skin fit.
The Contour Double Strap Sports Bra offers mid/high support with a pad-free spacer liner, deep ballet back and modern keyhole detail. For lower-impact days, the Contour Sports V Bralette has adjustable cross-back straps and a soft spacer liner designed for all-day comfort.
If leggings aren’t your only fall activewear priority, the Contour High Rise Bike Short offers a five-inch inseam in the same supportive silhouette. Across the collection, flatlock seams, no-dig waistbands and removable internal labels make the pieces comfortable enough for longer days, while the quick-drying fabric adds a practical performance element.
Whether you’re looking for an outfit that can handle your morning workout before transitioning into travel plans or simply want activewear that feels polished outside the gym, LDMA’s Contour Collection is designed with that versatility in mind. Shop the collection at LDMA to upgrade your fall activewear rotation.
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Whether you’re running errands or dining downtown, we’re betting you threw on the first pair of jeans you saw in your closet. But Dakota Johnson made a case for something much comfier and even classier. Her elevated pants style is incredibly polished, and we found the chic look on sale for only $25.
For a night out in New York City, Johnson wore a plain black tank, flowy black trouser pants and confidence that turned the sidewalk into a runway. Her comfy-luxe pants style gave Manhattan vibes — something you wear when you’re shopping in SoHo or have dinner plans in the West Village. Thankfully, you don’t need a NYC budget to pull it off!
Get the Ewedoos Wide-Leg Dress Pants for $25 (was $36) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
What makes Johnson’s outfit so wearable is the dressy trouser pants, and these Ewedoos Wide-Leg Dress Pants nail the aesthetic. They have a similar wide-leg shape, mid-rise hem and flowy silhouette. We’re also into the pleated front and mega-stretchy waistband. Better yet, the fabric is lightweight and breathable, so the pants drape nicely on the body.
Knowing what to wear to the office is challenging year-round, however, we think it’s even harder now that we’re over dresses and aren’t quite ready for pants. But like a gift from the fashion gods, Drew Barrymore gave Us some style inspo with a classy-cool jumpsuit, and we found the chic fall look for $35. […]
One Amazon reviewer wrote, “The waistband is comfortable and stays in place throughout the day without digging in or feeling restrictive. They truly feel as comfortable as yoga pants while maintaining the appearance of business-casual work attire.”
Another happy shopper wrote, “These pants are a dream come true. They’re almost the comfort of a sweat pant but the appearance of a real work trouser.”
Add a chunky cardigan when the temperature dips and suddenly, you’ve got the ideal transitional fall uniform without touching a single high-end piece. These secretly comfy dress pants are key to looking like an Upper East Side rich girl, without spending like it.
Get the Ewedoos Wide-Leg Dress Pants for $25 (was $36) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate at the date of publication but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more stylish pants, and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
UsNow Fall Sale Alert: These chic fashion finds are up to 60% off – plus free shipping
Welcome to fall with our biggest sale of the season. Our favorite dresses, tops, handbags, and shoes are all on sale + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
Let’s face it: Jeans aren’t the most polished. But Celine Dion‘s latest denim style is incredibly luxe, hence why it’s dominating rich mom wardrobes this fall. We found Dion’s classy look on sale for only $37, and it’s selling out as we type! Leaving her Paris hotel, the songstress proved that the right denim pants […]
While Alexander Skarsgård might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of Hollywood action stars (though perhaps he is after The Northman), if you’re looking for something full of adventure and excitement, then look to Tubi for one of his most underrated blockbusters. It’s been a decade since The Legend of Tarzan hit theaters, but the film is currently making waves on the free-to-stream platform — and it’s about time it’s recognized for its contribution to the character’s 100+ year history.
‘The Legend of Tarzan’ Is the Furthest Thing From the Sanitized Disney Movie
A decade ago, riding high off his success with the last few Harry Potter films, director David Yates attempted a bold re-imagining of one of modern literature’s most famous adventure heroes. The Legend of Tarzan picks up with the former “King of the Apes” years after he has left the African jungle and returned to high British society. But when Tarzan, now known by his real name of John Clayton III, returns to the Congo, he does so seeking to discover the horrors of the slave trade propagated by Captain Léon Rom (Christoph Waltz) — a real historical figure re-imagined for this 19th-century tale. Things go haywire when John’s wife, Jane (Margot Robbie), is kidnapped, and he must once more return to his jungle roots to stop the madman from his sinister activities. You can only imagine the sorts of jungle-fueled action spectacles that ensue, from tribal battles to deep-forest hunts to armies of apes and mercenaries going to war. It’s the sort of adventure epic that would make Edgar Rice Burroughs — the same man who also penned the John Carter novels — proud.
The Legend of Tarzan was largely panned during its initial release, but there’s a fun action movie buried in there. Skarsgård plays the adventurer with a sober restraint, not going full Tarzan until the moment the plot demands it, and offering a more complex and conflicted portrayal of the hero torn between two distinct (and different) worlds. For those only familiar with the Disney version, this Tarzan pulls more from Burroughs’ pulpy adventure novels than it does the House of Mouse, using the character’s cultural popularity to tell an enjoyable adventure tale that’s unlike what Hollywood makes these days. We cannot stress enough how different The Legend of Tarzan is in every respect from Disney’s Tarzan — which is still great on its own, but perhaps not as reverent toward the source material as this live-action take. Not only is the 2016 blockbuster an earnest re-imagining of Burroughs’ material, but it reminds us that there is so much more psychological depth to Tarzan and his multifaceted world than just the typical chest-beating and swinging through the trees. It’s no wonder that Tubi audiences have pushed The Legend of Tarzan into its high-trending collection.
With an Excellent Cast and Stunning Visuals, ‘The Legend of Tarzan’ Is an Enjoyable Movie Night Blockbuster
Aside from Skarsgård, Robbie, and Waltz, The Legend of Tarzan boasts a fine cast that also includes Samuel L. Jackson as historical figure George Washington Williams, a veteran of the American Civil War and Indian Wars who aids the titular hero in his African quest, and Djimon Hounsou as Chief Mbonga, the leader of the fictional city of Opar. With these stars, Yates was able to craft a feature that echoes the pulp adventures of old, with brilliant visuals and excellent battle sequences that will stun audiences years later. Whether you’re familiar with Burroughs’ original novels or a newcomer who has only ever experienced the Disney take on the cultural icon, The Legend of Tarzan leaves no one behind as it meditates on the circumstances that made John Clayton into Tarzan as he learns to embrace all sides of him.
Although it has been forgotten by most after a decade of franchise-focused blockbusters and poor remakes and sequels, The Legend of Tarzan deserves more respect than critics gave it at the time. It may not be a perfect Tarzan adaptation, but it’s a lot closer to the source than most — and it’s no wonder it continues to find streaming success all these years later. It’s also just loads of fun for anyone looking for an adventure film a little bit outside the usual action box.
The Legend of Tarzan is available for streaming for free on Tubi.
Many celebrities showed up to support “Star Wars” creator George Lucas at the opening of the Lucas Museum of Art on Saturday, September 19, in Los Angeles. Many longtime collaborators, including Steven Spielberg, attended, along with “Star Wars” actors like Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford. Other celebrities, like Katy Perry and Queen Latifah, were also in attendance.
Singer Katy Perry was “so excited” to attend the opening of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, joking that she was “dressed like the museum.”
When Variety asked the “Roar” singer to name her favorite “Star Wars” project, Perry named the “Rogue One” series “Andor” as a favorite.
Hayden Christensen Attended With Other ‘Star Wars’ Greats
Hayden Christensen, best known for playing Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader in the “Star Wars” prequel trilogy, was also spotted at the opening, alongside Lucasfilm co-President Dave Filoni.
Lucasfilm creative director Doug Chiang and actor Ahmed Best, best known for playing Jar Jar Binks and Jedi Master Kelleran Beq, were also in attendance.
Mark Hamill Feels ‘Lucky’ That The Museum Opened In Los Angeles
Fans who have been following the museum for a while know Lucas tried to build his passion project in several cities, including Chicago, before eventually settling on Los Angeles.
Mark Hamill, best known to fans for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker throughout the Skywalker Saga, told Variety that he felt “lucky” that the museum was built in Los Angeles.
“They wanted him to build it up north,” Hamill said. “They weren’t able to. Then they tried Chicago, and luckily, it landed here in Los Angeles.”
Samuel L. Jackson Posed With A Life-Sized Mace Windu
Samuel L. Jackson is best known for playing Jedi Master Mace Windu in the “Star Wars” prequel trilogy. In a video Deadline shared on X, the actor can be seen posing next to a life-size version of the Jedi.
Although some fans commented with some of Mace Windu’s most popular lines, others called for Jackson to return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Steven Spielberg Was Also In Attendance
It’s no surprise that Steven Spielberg, one of George Lucas’ longtime collaborators, would be in attendance.
The two were seen chatting on video while Jon Batiste performed.
Harrison Ford Also Showed Up To Support George Lucas
Harrison Ford and his wife, Calista Flockhart, also posed for a photo with George Lucas and his wife, Mellody Hobson, whom he married in 2013.
Ford is best known for his roles in two Lucasfilm projects: Indiana Jones and Han Solo.
Queen Latifah Praised The Work George Lucas and His Wife Put Into The Museum
Queen Latifah praised the work that George Lucas and his wife put into creating the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art.
“You wouldn’t believe how much work [George Lucas and Mellody Hobson] personally put into” architecting the museum, she told Variety.
“This isn’t just some ego thing where it’s like, ‘Hey, I’ll put my name on it, but you do all the work,’” she continued. “They are so in the DNA of this building.”
She helped kick off the opening night gala inside the museum, with many fans calling it a fitting tribute to Lucas’ legacy.
‘Star Wars’ Directors Ron Howard and Bryce Dallas Howard Attended The Opening
Both Ron Howard and his daughter, Bryce Dallas Howard, have directed several “Star Wars” projects across film and Disney+. At the museum’s opening, Bryce exclusively told PEOPLE magazine that her father often gives her good advice.
“I trust his advice. His advice comes from such a true place,” she said. “There’s no agenda. He’s such a deeply good person, and he cares so much.”
She also called the “Alone at Dawn” filmmaker “such a great father,” adding, “I’ve never felt manipulated. I’ve never felt controlled.”
She went on to say, “So anything that comes from my dad feels very clean, which is often not the case for parents and children.”
R2-D2 Also Made An Appearance
Of course, plenty of non-human celebrities also made an appearance at the museum’s opening night.
R2-D2, one of the famous droids from the “Star Wars” franchise, was also seen roaming around the floors of the museum.
Planet of the Apes is an iconic piece of media from the 20th century. The original film shows a distant future where humans aren’t the ruling species, where humanity has regressed while apes have taken the reins. The franchise has seen a myriad of interpretations. From the original 1968 film to Tim Burton‘s take on the story, Planet of the Apes has been told dozens of times. Audiences still find themselves drawn to this alternate future, in all its different iterations. But the four film series take what’s iconic about the original story and run in a brand new direction. Familiar and astounding all at once, the trilogy and its most recent installment demonstrate how this franchise still captivates audiences in the 21st century.
The 2011-2024 film series Planet of the Apes does not get enough credit. From the stunning motion capture effects to the outstanding performance given by Andy Serkis, these four films are groundbreaking pieces of media that modern audiences are sleeping on. For fans of Game of Thrones, they might find some similarities within the two stories that would draw them towards this series. There aren’t any dragons or fights for a throne, but Planet of the Apes tells the epic saga of one ape’s fight for his people’s freedom and the many losses he faces while trying to create a better future. The next epic story fans seek might not take place in Westeros, but in San Francisco.
A New Direction for the Franchise
Will (James Franco) is a scientist set on curing his father’s Alzheimer’s disease. When he’s tasked with looking after a young test ape, Will realizes the ape’s intelligence supersedes any others in his kind. Caeser (Andy Serkis) grows up with Will, straddling the line between animal and human. He’s incredibly smart, but doesn’t belong within human society. When Caeser eventually encounters other apes, he realizes that his kind are mistreated and abused by humanity. From test subjects to circus performers, apes have been used for humanity’s wishes, but Caeser calls for an end to it. He unites the apes and brings them together as an intelligent society that rivals the humans. When war breaks out between the two species, Caeser finds himself struggling with peace negotiations, impossible decisions, and a betrayal from within his own community.
By focusing on the character of Caesar, the trilogy frames the story through the eyes of someone other than a human. Each film finds Caesar at a different point in his life. From a young ape growing up with humans to a liberator for his species fighting against humankind, Planet of the Apes is tied to Caesar. Instead of rehashing the original plot from the 60s, the trilogy takes on a new focus to share another side of the story. It’s not just a reboot for the sake of retelling a classic story — it’s a creative twist that provides a brand new perspective.
‘Planet of the Apes’ is More Than Just a Reboot
Fans of the original 1968 film would argue that the 2010s series has little to do with the original source material. There is no central human character, instead relying on an ape as the protagonist. There is no space travel, nor visits to a distant future. Apes have not replaced the inferior, unintelligent human species. The series takes a different direction with the original plot, creating something more grounded in the present and integral to the main character.
Caesar’s journey is brilliantly formatted with the three films. Directed by Rupert Wyatt and Matt Reeves, each installment in the trilogy tackles a different phase of his life or obstacle he’s forced to overcome. As he grows into the formidable leader of the apes, the humans grow more desperate. There’s an interesting switch between the two species, where the humans act more animalistically and the apes become more humane. The change in behavior allows audiences to question where their loyalties lie — with a freedom fighter they’ve seen grow up or humans who display only violence and mistrust.
What is most striking about these films is how much heart they possess. The apes demonstrate a strong communal bond, a dedication to the survival of their species. Caesar himself, while the stoic and unshakable leader, depicts such love for his family that he’s willing to go to extreme lengths to protect them. His legacy lives on in the sequel series Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, where apes in the distant future still live by his words of unity and strength. When Caesar’s story finally concludes in War of the Planet of the Apes, audiences find themselves deeply attached to the ape who they’ve seen relentlessly fight for his agency.
Planet of the Apes will undoubtedly have more reboots, but there’s something special about this series of films. Andy Serkis gives his all with his performance of Caesar, making viewers forget they’re watching a computer-generated animal. This series is brilliantly crafted and shares a side of the story the franchise hadn’t yet explored. For fans of the original, they might be surprised at how these films create a new story while remaining appreciative of what came before. Planet of the Apes was always about apes replacing humans, and this series takes it a step further by placing an ape at the center of the story.
- Release Date
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August 5, 2011
- Runtime
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105 minutes
- Director
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Rupert Wyatt
Most alien invasion stories follow a similar formula: a massive force from beyond the stars arrives on Earth, intending to conquer or destroy it — writer’s choice. Humanity is usually outnumbered at first due to the invaders’ superior technology and firepower, but eventually manages to turn the tide by uncovering the aliens’ weaknesses. The one filmmaker who seems to have a gift for aliens descending upon Earth is Steven Spielberg, whether it’s his gritty take on H.G. Wells‘s War of the Worlds or his sci-fi thriller Disclosure Day. But 15 years after it premiered, one of Spielberg’s best alien invasion stories remains his 52-episode sci-fi epic, Falling Skies.
Falling Skies, created by Robert Rodat and produced by Spielberg under his Amblin Television banner, starts out like a typical alien-invasion story. The alien race known as the Espheni invaded the world, neutralizing our technology and killing 90% of Earth’s population…and six months later, humanity is still fighting, particularly the “2nd Mass” militia whose membership includes history professor turned soldier Tom Mason (Noah Wyle). Most alien invasion stories don’t spend this much time showing what happens after humanity loses the first battle, but that’s just one of the elements that makes Falling Skies a standout in the sci-fi landscape.
‘Falling Skies’ Shows How Humanity Lives After the Apocalypse
Unlike other Amblin Television series, Steven Spielberg was heavily involved in the production of Falling Skies. Not only did he help Robert Rodat shape the concept, but he also came up with the show’s title and its focus on survival, especially since humanity was outnumbered and outgunned:
“I’ve always been interested in how we survive and how resourceful we are as Americans. How would the survivors feed the children? How do they resupply themselves militarily in order to defend and even take back what they have lost?”
True to Spielberg’s words, Falling Skies works best when it places the focus on how humanity survives and grows during its battle with the Espheni. Tom manages to utilize his knowledge of history to predict the Espheni’s attacks while also taking care of his sons Hal (Drew Roy), Ben (Connor Jessup), and Matt (Maxim Knight). Tom even finds love during the Espheni war as he connects with doctor Anne Glass (Moon Bloodgood), eventually marrying her and having a child with her. Other characters see their beliefs changing or unwavering, like Anne’s assistant Lourdes (Seychelle Gabriel), who refuses to lose faith in God despite the state of the world.
In addition to its incredible character work, Falling Skies boasts intense, frenetic fight scenes that thrust its audience right into the middle of the action. These fight scenes could best be described as “Saving Private Ryan, but the soldiers fight giant robots and aliens instead of Nazis,” which is rather fitting given that Robert Rodat and Steven Spielberg worked together to bring that particular war epic to life. These battles, and the aliens who appear in the series, also manage to make Falling Skies feel like a bona fide blockbuster despite its television origins.
‘Falling Skies’ Is Still One of Steven Spielberg’s Best Sci-Fi Series
Falling Skies ended up being a massive success during its run, as it didn’t just receive rave reviews but also set records. Its premiere was one of the highest series launches in cable history, and it quickly became one of TNT’s most watched dramas. The series ultimately lasted five seasons and 52 episodes, a run that looks even more impressive alongside other Amblin Television sci-fi shows that never found the same longevity. Under the Dome started strong but petered out by its third season. Terra Nova was never quite sure what show it wanted to be, and Extant couldn’t attract viewers despite shifting gears from sci-fi mystery to sci-fi action.
Fifteen years after its premiere, Falling Skies holds up because its alien invasion was never really the entire point. The action is big, the creatures are memorable, and Spielberg’s fingerprints are everywhere, but the series is ultimately interested in what people build after almost everything has already been taken from them. For anyone looking for a completed sci-fi binge with enough story to actually settle into, 52 episodes of humanity fighting back still makes for one hell of an invasion story.
- Release Date
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2011 – 2015-00-00
- Network
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TNT
- Showrunner
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Mark Verheiden
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Noah Wyle
Thomas ‘Tom’ Mason
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Moon Bloodgood
Dr. Anne Glass
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Will Patton
Captain Daniel ‘Dan’ Weaver
-
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce made a low-key appearance in honor of their friend Patrick Mahomes’ 31st birthday.
Swift and Kelce, both 36, were spotted at the Kansas City Chiefs tight end’s 1587 Prime steakhouse in now-viral social media footage shared Saturday, September 20. The pop star donned a strapless black midi dress with a coordinating handbag as she held hands with her husband, who twinned with his better half in an all-black ensemble. (Kelce and Mahomes co-own 1587 Prime in KC, named after their respective Chiefs jersey numbers.)
The newlyweds have been married since July, saying “I do” in a star-studded ceremony held at New York City’s Madison Square Garden in front of 1,000 of their nearest and dearest friends and family members.
“[Our] wedding was the best night of my life,” Kelce gushed of the ceremony during a press conference last month. “I appreciate everybody who came out and celebrated and had fun with us. That’s about all I really got from that night. It was a crazy night. It was full of a lot of celebration.”
For Kelce, it was particularly memorable to get married inside the iconic NYC landmark, known for hosting some of the most famed sporting events in history.
“MSG, man, I always told myself I’d go for a playoff game when the [New York] Knicks were rocking, and my wife went when I was stuck in minicamp,” Kelce said, referring to Swift’s attendance at Game 4 of the 2026 NBA Finals. “I didn’t get the opportunity to go then, so it’s kind of cool to get to live out my childhood dream of being in that venue, the mecca of all sports venues, [by] being able to get married in there.”
He continued at the time, “I can’t thank the owners of MSG [enough] for allowing us to get the opportunity to do that, knowing that we wanted a private event and everything. The A/C was cooking, baby. That was the best part.”
Months after their big day, Kelce returned to the gridiron for his 14th — and potentially last — season with the Chiefs. Swift was present for the team’s season opener on Monday, September 14, where she watched from a private box with her parents, her newly minted in-laws and actor Tom Cruise.
“She was schooling me on football. She was bringing the football [knowledge],” Cruise, 64, revealed while appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon days later. “Oh, she knows her stuff. She’s like, ‘This is like …’ I was like, ‘OK!’ She knew nothing about football when she met Travis. It was like her [saying], ‘What was it like playing against your brother, tackling each other?’ She said, ‘You know, he’s so patient.’ I said, ‘I’m sure he was!’ … She knows [football]. She’s just bringing it. She knows.”
The Chiefs defeated the Denver Broncos 31-10 in their season-opener. They will take the field on Sunday, September 20, for a matchup against the Indianapolis Colts.
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