Entertainment
Elon Musk Plans To Make ‘The Odyssey’ Movie With AI
“The Odyssey” has generated a lot of buzz even before its release, but not everyone is impressed with Christopher Nolan’s approach to the epic poem. Elon Musk has been critical of the adaptation, voicing his opinion on casting choices, among other things. The trillionaire recently shared his plan to create his own AI-powered version of the tale, one he claims would be more “historically accurate” than Nolan’s take on Homer’s work.
Elon Musk has been vocal about his thoughts on Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” long before the film’s release on July 17. In February, there were rumors that Lupita Nyong’o would be portraying Helen of Troy, and Musk commented on X that the director “has lost his integrity.”
On July 22, Musk announced that before 2026 is over, he will have a feature-length version of “The Odyssey” created with AI image and video generator Grok Imagine “that is historically accurate and true to the art of Homer.” The post was accompanied by a three-minute clip of what the movie could look like, which was shared by Heavy Pulp.
Reactions to Musk’s statement varied, but many pointed out that he couldn’t create something “historically accurate” when his source material is rooted in Greek mythology. “It’s an imagined story that feature cyclops and mermaids my dude… There is nothing historical about it,” one user commented.
One Filmmaker Said The Businessman’s Opinions Are ‘Worthless’
Following Musk’s post, filmmaker Scott Derrickson, who directed films such as “Sinister,” “The Exorcism of Emily Rose,” and “Doctor Strange,” shared his reaction on social media.
“Clearly @elonmusk doesn’t know sh-t about cinema & he stopped reading in his 20s. His opinions on art are worthless,” Derrickson wrote. Entertainment critics and British historian Tom Holland (not to be confused with the “Spider-Man” actor) have also pushed back against Musk’s criticisms of the film.
Some also pointed out inaccuracies in the AI-generated video Musk posted, with many noticing that Odysseus had a yellow earplug. Another commented, “Not to nitpick but nobody here looks Greek… It looks cool but it exposes the fact that accuracy is not the goal. It’s just making everyone white.”
Elon Musk Heavily Criticized And Mocked ‘The Odyssey’
Musk’s statements about “The Odyssey” stemmed from rumors about casting, specifically over Lupita Nyong’o, who portrayed twin sisters Helen of Troy and Clytemnestra, and Elliot Page as Greek warrior Sinon. He wrote, in part, that the casting was one of “the dumbest and most twisted things I’ve heard.”
When the cast was confirmed, Musk doubled down on his stance. In May, conservative political commentator Matt Walsh posted about the movie, describing it as “woke” and calling Nolan a “coward.”
“We’re told that we shouldn’t object to Helen of Troy being portrayed as a black woman. And yet if a major Hollywood studio made a film set in Africa and cast a white woman as ‘the most beautiful woman in Africa,’ those same people would literally riot in the street,” Walsh wrote. Musk agreed, replying, “Absolutely true. Such hypocrisy in Hollywood.”
Later, the business mogul called Nolan an “anti-White racist.”
The SpaceX CEO Accused Christopher Nolan Of Pandering To The Oscars
Chris Nolan desecrated the Odyssey so that he would be eligible for an Academy Award …
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 15, 2026
In yet another post, Musk accused Nolan of making the casting choices he did to pander to the Oscars. “Who specifically is the a-shole who added DEI lies to Academy Awards eligibility instead of it just being about making the best movie?” he asked.
Musk was referring to the Oscars’ diversity and inclusion rules, which went into effect in 2024. As many pointed out, however, the businessman’s assumption was inaccurate. According to the Academy’s guidelines for a film to be eligible for Best Picture, only two of the four standards must be satisfied when it comes to diversity.
The inclusion standards do not only cover on-screen casting, but also behind-the-camera opportunities, marketing and distribution teams, and creative leadership and crew.
Elon Musk Said He’s Up For Funding An Adaptation Directed By Mel Gibson
X user John Carter posted an idea on the social media platform, saying that he wants the trillionaire to give Mel Gibson $100 million to create a “painstakingly historically accurate” adaptation of “The Odyssey.” Carter also noted that he wants all dialogue to be taken from Homer’s poem and delivered in Homeric Greek dialect.
Musk responded with two words: “I’m down.” Others mentioned, however, that Gibson’s movies, including “Braveheart,” “The Passion of the Christ,” and “Apocalypto,” were filled with inaccuracies.
Nolan has not directly responded to Musk’s criticisms, only offering a blanket statement about critics. During a press tour, the director said the comments are “irrelevant,” especially before watching a film, and the backlash “comes with the territory” of creating a big movie.
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Margaret Qualley was spotted publicly for the first time amid her split from estranged husband Jack Antonoff.
The Substance actress, 31, returned to the horror movie genre on Wednesday, July 22, when she filmed scenes for the remake of the cult classic Possession in New Jersey, per People.
Qualley perfectly recaptured the spooky elegance that original Possession star Isabelle Adjani embodied in the 1981 movie, having been photographed on Wednesday wearing a black long-sleeved, button-up shirt, a dark knee-length skirt and leggings as well as ballet slippers as she screamed in terror for the camera.
Smile writer-director Parker Finn is partnering with producer Robert Pattinson to remake filmmaker Andrzej Żuławski’s supernatural thriller about a spy’s wife who experiences unexplainable horrors when she asks for a divorce. (Callum Turner, Paul Dano and Diego Calva are all starring with Qualley in the new version of Possession.)
Jack Antonoff didn’t show up solo to Taylor Swift‘s wedding amid his separation from wife Margaret Qualley. News broke on Wednesday, July 9, that Qualley, 31, and Antonoff, 42, had split after three years of marriage. Rumors swirled about the couple’s status after Qualley was absent from Swift’s wedding to Travis Kelce at New York […]
Qualley got back to work two weeks after reports emerged that she’d quietly separated from Antonoff, 42, after three years of marriage.
Speculation arose about the couple’s marital status when Jack attended longtime friend and collaborator Taylor Swift’s wedding to Travis Kelce at New York City’s Madison Square Garden on July 3 with his sister, Rachel Antonoff, rather than Qualley.
On July 9, Us reported via an exclusive source that Qualley and Jack split “recently” but were “having issues for the last few years.”
“Margaret initiated the separation,” a source told Us. “Both of their busy schedules and distance were factors, along with many other things.”
Jack Antonoff and Margaret Qualley Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
The insider added, “They were still trying to work on the marriage a few months ago, but it ultimately wasn’t working. At some point, the rose-colored glasses came off for Margaret, and she felt she needed to take a step back.”
Us learned from the source that Jack also “had expressed to friends” that “it was difficult being married and that there were struggles” in his relationship with Qualley.
“[They] don’t have divorce plans yet,” the insider confirmed.
Qualley’s spokesperson subsequently spoke out on July 10 to shut down persistent theoried that there were “trust issues” in the actress’s marriage.
“The narratives running in the press about Margaret and Jack are categorically untrue,” her rep told Us at the time. “There are no trust issues. There was no infidelity or anything outside of respect and partnership in this relationship. They have deep love and care for one another.”
Margaret Qualley and Jack Antonoff kept their romance under the radar before getting married. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Subscribe to newsletters Enter your email Please enter a valid email. Subscribe By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive emails from Us Weekly Deal of the Day Cool […]
The rep continued, “There are only two people in this marriage, and the sources who are talking to the press and commenting on their relationship are not people who know them. Please respect their privacy.”
Antonoff and Qualley were first spotted together in August 2021 before eventually tying the knot in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, in August 2023. Their star-studded wedding guest list included Swift, 36, Lana Del Rey, Zoë Kravitz and the bride’s mother, Andie MacDowell.
Prior to her marriage to Jack, Qualley dated comedian Pete Davidson in 2019 and was with Shia LaBeouf the following year. Jack was in a long-term relationship with Girls creator Lena Dunham for more than five years before they split in late 2017.
Entertainment
Kaylee Hottle’s cause of death revealed after “Godzilla vs. Kong” actress died in car accident
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Hottle’s father announced her death after a fatal car accident on July 21.
There is a very fine line between the moronically mundane and the mindfully magnificent, between the momentary appeal of nonsensical silliness and the enduring legacy of excellence. Some of the most brilliant television series ever released have toed this line with astonishing skill, presenting thought-provoking observations on contemporary society beneath a foolhardy façade of unassuming asininity.
Ranging from vulgar teenage comedies to the awe-inspiring absurdity of adult animation, and even to the underrated impact and influence of some of the boldest family sitcoms the medium has ever seen, each of these 10 series has a depth and a genius to them that many overlook on first viewing. Slapstick silliness and smut may abound in these shows, but audiences shouldn’t think that is all they offer.
15
‘The Office’ (2005–2013)
Based on the UK series of the same name, and even emulating its mockumentary format, The Office excels as an absurd distortion of workplace chaos as it immerses viewers in the Scranton branch of a paper supply company. Under the management of the well-meaning but often offensive and misguided Michael Scott (Steve Carell), the employees balance their time between going about their work and embarking on numerous misadventures that lead to all kinds of calamity.
Its gleeful, energized delight goes hand-in-hand with its frenetic lunacy, but the true masterstroke of The Office—and the quality that distinguishes it from Ricky Gervais’s British predecessor—is its underlying sense of heart. The silliness is grounded in emotional realism, making the characters more than just walking punch-lines or shallow caricatures, but nuanced and deeply relatable spins on stereotypical workplace personalities. Its infectious goofiness works in tandem with its heartfelt warmth to make for the ultimate comfort comedy, one that is still enjoyed and rewatched by the masses well over a decade on from its conclusion.
14
‘Trailer Park Boys’ (2001–2026)
Another hit series that soared with its mockumentary format, Trailer Park Boys is an unrestrained descent into absurdist brilliance anchored by strong and unforgettable characterizations. The comedic Canadian TV series follows the mania and hilarity that ensues when three ex-cons start living together in a trailer park. The trio embark on all manner of mischievous misadventures while struggling to adjust to their new lifestyle.
It leans heavily on inspired depravity, pairing the lowbrow obscenity and criminal instincts of the characters with a sneakily sweet air of loyalty, community, support, and brotherhood. It doesn’t invest in these qualities to the point of becoming soppy or sentimental, but the presence of the three men’s sincere connection allows for their antics to boast a sense of good-natured chaos, even if the results of their labor are typically disastrous.
13
‘Futurama’ (1999–Present)
A series that is perhaps undervalued in the wheelhouse of animated comedy, Futurama was dismissed by many as being a sci-fi knockoff of The Simpsons due to its similar animation style and comedic tastes, and the creative in-put of Matt Groening and David X. Cohen. However, its ability to combine lowbrow crassness with advanced scientific concepts, refined philosophical points, and a litany of memorable and beloved characters is testament enough to its genius.
Fry (Billy West) is a pizza delivery boy from 1999 who ends up 1000 years in the future when he accidentally places himself in a cryosleep chamber. Awakening at the dawn of the 31st century, Fry finds work for an interplanetary delivery company and enjoys a series of wacky adventures with his colleagues. The series’ ability to embark on feverishly absurd tangents and include ridiculous gags without sacrificing narrative quality is one of its defining strengths, as is its gradual character arcs and melancholic themes that ground the series in emotional earnestness and prevent the zany humor from feeling hollow.
12
‘Monty Python’s Flying Circus’ (1969–1974)
There are few in the history of film and television who have perfected the nature of stupid comedy quite like Monty Python. The British troupe is fondly remembered for their work in comedy cinema, with enduring classics like Monty Python and the Holy Grail and Monty Python’s Life of Brian. However, before those pictures came to be, they first ingratiated themselves to British audiences with their sketch comedy series, Monty Python’s Flying Circus.
Through short and snappy skits, Monty Python’s appetite for sheer ridiculousness is even more profound than it is in their movies, with everything from crude innuendo to sight gags, animated chaos, deadpan absurdist satire, and even abrupt outbursts of musical mayhem being used to conjure laughs. Beneath its frenzied chaos, however, the sketch comedy series makes pointed and surprisingly timeless observations on the idiosyncrasies of British life, the nature of class, and the perplexing lunacy of social norms. Its four-season run is a treat of comic purity that features everything from lowbrow smut to intelligent philosophical musings.
11
‘Bob’s Burgers’ (2011–Present)
Even more so than many other animated comedy series, Bob’s Burgers leans heavily into the appeal of stupidity as it follows third-generation restaurateur Bob Belcher (H. Jon Benjamin) as he manages his struggling burger shop with help from his uptight wife and their three underachieving children. However, the series never stoops to mean-spirited satire to conjure laughs, actively subverting the “disaster family” sitcom formula as it explores a loving and wholesome blue-collar family dynamic.
Aided by its brilliant conversational nature, a byproduct of the cast recording their lines together and allowing for organic improvisation and overlapping dialogue, Bob’s Burgers finds its comedic heart in the art of witty wordplay and the relatability of fluid family bickering. The absurd brilliance of the animated sight gags only adds to this intriguing and warm-hearted dimension, making Bob’s Burgers one of the most resonant and charming animated sitcoms television has to offer.
10
‘American Vandal’ (2017–2018)
A hysterical and ceaselessly brilliant skewering of the true crime phenomenon that has erupted in recent years, American Vandal is a delightful blending of parody and potty humor. It follows two high school students as they investigate pranks carried out by their peers to determine who was truly behind them. Season 1 sees them looking into a case where 27 faculty cars were vandalized with phallic imagery, while Season 2 revolves around a mystery concerning contaminated cafeteria lemonade in a Catholic school.
Despite the juvenile nature of its premise, American Vandal soars as an all-consuming satirical masterpiece. It conjures surprisingly engrossing central mysteries while offering considered queries on the exploitative state of today’s entertainment and engaging with notions of social media and the modern teenage experience with authenticity and intelligence. In this regard, it uses its license for obscenity and absurdity fantastically, making for a profound and piercing parody that is as confident and assured in making penis jokes as it is illuminating essential issues in modern society.
9
‘Rick and Morty’ (2013–Present)
There is a peculiarity to the intelligence and genius of Rick and Morty. On one hand, anyone obsessively dictating to you that it is smart only proves that it has an appeal to stupid people. On the other hand, there is an inspired brilliance to its comedy that has to be respected. The animated series marries cartoonish absurdity and sci-fi intricacy as it follows the many misadventures of a depressed, eccentric, and alcoholic mad scientist and his naïve and kind-hearted young grandson.
The magnificence of Rick and Morty resides in how seamlessly it juggles its many different comedy styles, tones, and ideas. Many of its most well-known gags are examples of unadulterated lunacy and low-brow humor, and yet there is a philosophical might to the series that has a certain knack for blindsiding viewers amid all the tomfoolery. Its grasp on complex scientific theories and its extensive mockery of pop culture are also factors that serve as a testament to the series’ excellence and perhaps overlooked intelligence.
8
‘Mr. Bean’ (1990–1995)
There is so much about Mr. Bean that feels like it offers a momentary chuckle, only to be instantly forgotten and never thought of again. And yet, despite the fact that the series consists of just 15 episodes across one season, which was released 30 years ago, the offbeat British sitcom remains one of the most well-known titles in comedy television. The series simply follows Rowan Atkinson’s eponymous character in his daily misadventures as his unusual wit and his peculiar perspective of the world always conspire to get him in awkward situations.
There is a certain simplicity to the idea that is timeless, while Atkinson’s mastery of physical humor and visual gags has made the character truly universal. Many would be quick to suggest that Mr. Bean’s childlike naivety and slapstick silliness are what makes it stupid, but these qualities imbue the series with the ability to appeal to absolutely anyone in the world, while also making Bean himself a surprisingly endearing and sympathetic character despite his muteness and absurdity.
7
‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ (2005–Present)
In any form of narrative writing, it is seldom advised that one make all their main characters as despicable, unlikable, and irredeemable as is humanly possible. Somehow, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia did exactly this and struck comedy gold, and that is not something that can be accomplished by accident. The irreverent sitcom follows five toxic and completely immoral friends in their efforts to manage a decrepit Irish bar in Philadelphia, with the group being led on many manic and monstrous misadventures in the process.
Profound, nihilistic, and always finding new ways to shock fans with its characters’ depravity, the hit series has thrived with its exceptional comedy performances and writing. Perhaps the greatest testament to its genius, however, has been its longevity, with the series’ consistent excellence highlighting that it doesn’t entertain with mere shock value, but through its unbridled creativity and its ceaseless sense of dare to push the boundaries of what society will deem to be acceptable.
6
‘All in the Family’ (1971–1979)
If modern audiences were to revisit the iconic 70s sitcom All in the Family, the chances are they would consider it funny, but ultimately outdated and completely out of taste. After all, the brash and insensitive style that marked the comedy of that era has become archaic. However, what viewers of today perhaps wouldn’t initially understand is how pioneering the series was, with it being the first sitcom to actively address trending social issues in a manner that is both insightful and fun.
It follows the Queens-based Bunker family as they navigate the trials of working-class life with Archie Bunker’s (Carroll O’Connor) prejudiced and narrow-minded views often clashing with the perspectives of his wife and children. All in the Family’s boof-headed veneer often gives way to great discussion points and observations about issues such as discrimination, gentrification, and the impact of the Vietnam War on American society. Its formula of laughs and enlightenment has been adopted by countless sitcoms since, making All in the Family not only a stroke of writing genius, but one of the most influential series of all time as well.
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Dressing for triple-digit temperatures is no joke, but Eva Longoria just gave us a hack for staying cool and looking cute at the same time. No matter if you’re going to the gym, out to lunch or a day of shopping, an athletic dress is a smart option for all of it. You see, the style has all the elements that make being comfortable — even in this unforgiving summer weather — actually possible.
Longoria went out to lunch with a friend while out in Spain. The actress dressed smartly for the heat in a black and white athletic dress, slip-on sandals, sunglasses and a designer tote bag — and an up-do hairstyle. She looked effortlessly polished, and luckily, a lookalike wasn’t hard to find, thanks to the Desol Square-Neck Athletic Tennis Dress.
Get the Desol Square-Neck Athletic Tennis Dress for $15 (originally $30) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
On sale for $15 right now, this one-piece looks just like Longoria’s with the black base and white trim. However, it comes in 10 other colors and patterns, including polka dots, so you can take advantage of the limited-time deal. It’s just as easy to wear this dress to play tennis as it is to run errands.
Summer is in full swing, but our penchant for sundresses never goes out of season. Especially for women over 55, loose, figure-flattering sundresses offer that sophisticated, warm-weather polish that’s always cool and chic. Right now, there’s no better place to shop sundresses for women over 55 than Amazon, which is packed with options in every style, […]
What makes this athletic dress so ideal for summer is that it has an airy sleeveless design, a comfortable four-way stretch and convenient built-in shorts with pockets. So, you don’t have to worry about not being able to move in it or feeling exposed by the short length. This style is flattering, too, because the V-shape waist detail cinches you in before bubbling out just a bit.
Amazon reviewers agree that this athletic dress is a smart choice no matter what activities are on the agenda.
“The square neckline gives it a flattering and stylish look, while the built-in shorts provide great coverage and comfort. The fabric is lightweight, stretchy and breathable, making it perfect for tennis, golf, workouts or casual outings,” a happy shopper shared.
“Love how this dress fits. It’s perfect for going to theme parks. The pockets are a good size, and [the] fabric is almost water-resistant. We got rained on A LOT, and it dried so quickly!! Felt comfy and pretty all day long,” another verified buyer said.
When dealing with scorching temperatures and just wanting all-day comfort, Longoria found the secret — and all it takes is one affordable piece on Amazon.
Get the Desol Square-Neck Athletic Tennis Dress for $15 (originally $30) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.
Looking for something else? Explore more athletic dresses here and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!
UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
When temperatures start climbing, getting dressed in a cute outfit can feel a lot less appealing. Our tip? Skip the shorts-and-top combo, which can feel stiff and uncomfortable, and opt for a lightweight sundress instead. It’s so much easier to throw on, in more ways than one. Not only does a breathable dress offer a […]
Tom Holland has been busy promoting both “The Odyssey” and “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” but he is already looking ahead to his next major project. The actor revealed that he has begun preparing to portray legendary entertainer Fred Astaire, sharing how he plans to tackle the iconic role.
The update comes as the planned biopic continues to face pushback from members of Astaire’s family.
Tom Holland has been making rounds to promote his two most recent films, “The Odyssey” and the fourth installment in the superhero franchise, “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.” While talking about the latter, the actor also provided an update about his upcoming project, a biopic focusing on the iconic entertainer Fred Astaire.
The untitled biopic was first announced five years ago, and after years in development, it is finally moving forward. According to Holland, he has begun preparing for his role and has spent some time in the dance studio.
“I did my first few rehearsals recently, and it both filled me with excitement and absolute dread because I’ve got so much work to do to try and do Fred proud,” the actor said on “Good Morning America.“
The Actor Wants To Challenge Himself And Refuses To Use A Double
Holland has been dancing since he was 9 years old, and he trained in hip-hop, ballet, and tap. At 12 years old, he was cast in the West End production “Billy Elliot the Musical” and trained in acrobatics and gymnastics to further develop his skills and agility. His years of training provide a solid foundation for portraying Astaire.
The entertainer, who was known for revolutionizing how dance was captured on film, was a perfectionist who insisted on uninterrupted choreography to allow the audience to appreciate his craft.
Holland is up for the challenge and doesn’t want to use a body double for the biopic. “I have a desire to use no doubles, to do all of the dancing, to shoot those dances in one shot, how he would have done it,” the actor explained.
Tom Holland’s Role Was Announced In 2021
The biopic is being produced by Sony Pictures and Pascal Pictures. Paul King, who directed “Paddington” and “Wonka,” has been tapped to helm the movie.
In 2021, “Spider-Man” producer Amy Pascal, who will also produce the Astaire biopic, said she wanted Holland to play the dancer. “There are very few actors working now who are versatile in the way that he is. And he’s the hardest-working person that I know,” Pascal told GQ.
Later that same year, Holland confirmed that he would be playing Astaire.
Fred Astaire Did Not Want Films About Him To Be Made
Astaire began his professional career at 5 years old in 1905 and starred in more than 40 films. He earned many accolades in his decades-long career and is considered the most influential dancer in film history. He received an Honorary Academy Award for his contributions to musical films, and won three Golden Globes and nine Primetime Emmy Awards.
Throughout his life, Astaire repeatedly said that no amount of money would make him sell the rights to his life story. The legendary dancer passed away in 1987 at 88 years old, and according to reports, his last will included a clause that no film about his life should ever be made, as he didn’t want Hollywood to misinterpret his life and career.
While there have been no biopics released about him thus far, he has been the subject of several documentaries.
The Dancer’s Widow Is Against The Biopic
In 2025, Astaire’s widow, Robyn Astaire, sent a legal letter to Pascal and cited the clause in her husband’s will highlighting that his life shouldn’t be depicted on screen. Robyn is determined to respect the dancer’s final wishes and made it clear that Astaire’s estate does not approve of the biopic.
Pascal and Sony Pictures have not publicly responded to Robyn, but according to an insider, the upcoming movie will be based on an autobiography that Sony owns the rights to, as reported by TMZ.
No other cast members have been officially announced for the biopic. Filming is scheduled to begin in January 2027.
The TV adaption of Jennette McCurdy‘s I’m Glad My Mom Died memoir has faced a multitude of production challenges behind the scenes.
McCurdy got her start as a child star in Nickelodeon’s iCarly and Sam & Cat, She ultimately quit acting to pursue a career in writing and directing.
In 2022, McCurdy released a memoir titled I’m Glad My Mom Died. It quickly became a bestseller for its candid depiction of McCurdy’s childhood, which involved abusive behavior from her since-deceased mother.
The tell-all was picked up to be adapted on Apple starring Jennifer Aniston — but has since been plagued with issues that delayed the show. McCurdy, for her part, referred to the process as “interesting” yet “complicated” during a January 2026 episode of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast.
Jennette McCurdy‘s troubled relationship with her now-late mother serves as the inspiration for an upcoming show — but what is there to know aside from Jennifer Aniston’s casting? Jennette got her start as a child star in Nickelodeon’s iCarly, Sam & Cat, Zoey 101, True Jackson, VP and Victorious. She briefly transitioned to music and […]
Keep scrolling for an explainer of the delays:
The Key Players
During her childhood, Jennette had a tumultuous relationship with mother Debra McCurdy, who introduced her to several eating disorders and forced her to continue acting.
Following Debra’s death from cancer in 2013, Jennette briefly continued to book roles before stepping away from acting. She pivoted to writing and used her personal essays as inspiration for a one-woman dark comedy show: I’m Glad My Mom Died. This ultimately became the jumping off point for Jennette’s 2022 memoir of the same name, which received a 10-episode TV order from Apple.
“Of course, there are moments where I fantasize that my mom would’ve apologized or that we’d have a turnaround in our relationship, but that’s fantasy,” Jennette told Vogue in August 2022 about reflecting on her complicated relationship with her mother. “That’s a lot of what the book is about to me, not needing to romanticize the dead and validate our own experience with them.”
She continued: “I feel very confidently that if my mom were still alive, I’d still have eating disorders. I’d still be having a lot of mental health struggles. I’m sure she and I would still live in the same place and I would have no chance of being in a relationship or having any friends. I have no doubt my life would still be very controlled by her if she were alive.”
The Gist
According to the show synopsis, the dramedy will center on “the codependent relationship between an 18-year-old actress in a hit kids’ show, and her narcissistic mom who relishes in her identity as a starlet’s mother.”
The first season was written, executive produced and showrun by Jennette and Ari Katcher. Aniston, Sharon Horgan and Merman, LuckyChap, Jerrod Carmichael and Erica Kay also served as executive producers.
Filmmaker Jason Reitman was involved as its director but exited the project. Outlets reported that alleged creative differences with Jennette about the tone of the show caused the issues. Puck News claimed in August 2025 that the series was given a short window by Apple to find a replacement or be put on hold indefinitely.
In July 2026, TMZ reported that Aniston left the series due to scheduling issues.
Nickelodeon alum Jennette McCurdy surprised fans when she first detailed her abusive relationship with her mother, Debra McCurdy. Jennette and her three older brothers were raised in California by Debra and father Mark McCurdy. (The actress would later find out that Mark was not her biological dad.) As a child, Jennette’s mother encouraged her to […]
What Has Been Said
Jennette McCurdy and her mother Debra McCurdy attend the 16th annual EIF Revlon Run/Walk for Women on May 9, 2009. Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images
Before the creative issues, Aniston spoke about joining the show and her connection to Jennette. “We have a lot in common,” Aniston told People in October 2025. “We had very similar moms.”
She continued: “When it came across my desk as an option, an offer to play this character and work with Jennette and Sharon Horgan and LuckyChap, I was pretty much immediately intrigued and flattered and excited. It’s going to be wonderful. It’s going to be pretty great to start shooting it. The fact that she’s the young woman that she is, having lived that life, is nothing short of remarkable.”
Jennette, meanwhile, broke her silence about the production drama three months later.
“There are a lot of politics involved, which is not my forte. It’s really interesting because for writing, you’re really rewarded for being truthful,” she said on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast. “I’m show running, creating and executive producing this thing. With producing, you’re rewarded for not being truthful. So it’s a lot of like, ‘OK, how can we tell this person one thing but do another?’”
Jennette called the experience difficult, adding, “I won’t lie, it’s been challenging navigating the politics of it. I feel much more connected to my books. … There’s no games involved. There’s no chess match involved.”
What’s Next
Jennette McCurdy Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic
No updates on the show’s future have been made public. Jennette, for her part, elaborated on her vision for the show to Alex Cooper.
“It’s horrifying. I think it’s the only way to do this project is to be doing it with people who relate deeply to the material,” she added in January 2026. “Otherwise, it’s a moot point. If somebody’s just doing it for the wrong reasons, I think it really gets lost in a project like this.”
She concluded: “That can work for a lot of projects but I think for something that comes from this personal of a place, other people have to relate that deeply or it just gets watered down.”
Javier Bardem and Penélope Cruz have shared the screen in several films over the years, building a long-running creative partnership alongside their marriage. Looking back on those collaborations, Bardem recently explained what makes working with his wife different, revealing how their years together give them a unique advantage whenever they step onto a film set.
Javier Bardem and Penélope Cruz have been married for 16 years and have shared the screen multiple times. The couple will be gracing the screen together once more in an upcoming movie, and the actor spoke about the advantages of working on a film set with his wife.
Bardem said that he and Cruz have a special connection that makes things easier in a professional setting. “There’s a level of trust, of knowing how we work, that doesn’t need to be rehearsed,” the actor said, adding that it “saves a lot of time.”
The couple will portray husband and wife in the psychological thriller “Bunker,” written and directed by Florian Zeller. In it, Bardem plays an architect hired to build a bunker for a tech billionaire while his wife questions their marriage. Zeller said that he wrote the screenplay specifically with Bardem and Cruz in mind.
“The quality of the dialogues, the quality of what he is bringing into the story for us to reflect on, is really powerful, so I hope you watch it and enjoy it,” Bardem told Us Weekly.
The Couple Had Chemistry When They First Met
Bardem and Cruz first crossed paths in the early ’90s while filming the Spanish movie, “Jamón, Jamón.” Both were relatively unknown young actors at the time, and while Bardem said he felt a connection with the actress, nothing romantic came out of the collaboration.
The Oscar-winning actor recalled the moment in an interview with GQ, admitting that there was mutual attraction. “Nothing happened. There was obvious chemistry between us. I mean, it’s all there on film; it’s like a document of our passion,” Bardem said, but Cruz was underage. She was 17 years old, five years Bardem’s junior.
The two went their separate ways and built successful careers, and it wasn’t until 15 years later that they started dating.
Javier Bardem And Penélope Cruz Got Together After Their Second Movie
In 2008, Bardem and Cruz shared the screen for a second time in the Woody Allen-directed flick, “Vicky Cristina Barcelona.” However, they waited for the movie to wrap filming before pursuing a relationship.
Bardem said that throughout the project, neither of them wanted to make the first move. “I don’t know if we were shy or trying to be too professional,” he said. On the final day of filming, they finally gave in to their attraction at the wrap party. The actor didn’t reveal who took the first step, but that evening laid the foundation of their relationship.
The actor gushed about his wife, saying, “She has what I call the loving blood. Passion for everything. That’s what I find attractive. There is beauty and there is being sexy. Penélope has both.”
The Couple Shares Two Children
Bardem said he and Cruz share many similarities, but the basis of their relationship stems from a genuine connection before all the glitz and glamor that came with their careers.
“We met each other and knew each other before all of the noise, before success and before anybody saw us with different eyes because of who we now were, what he had become,” the actor noted, adding that it’s integral to rely on someone who knows the real you. “You see me, I see you. That’s important,” he said in an interview with The Gentleman’s Journal.
The couple tied the knot at a private ceremony in the Bahamas in 2010. Cruz gave birth to their first child, a son named Leo, in 2011, and welcomed their daughter, Luna, in 2013.
Penélope Cruz Is Still Discovering Things About Her Husband
The husband and wife co-starred in other films, including “The Counselor,” “Loving Pablo,” and “Everybody Knows.” While they have known each other for more than three decades and have been married for 16 years, the actress said she’s still learning more things about her husband.
“I feel like I’m still learning, you know? And I am with somebody that I’ve known for 33 years. I really know that person, but it’s like, is there a day where you really get to know yourself? No. So the same with your partner,” she told PEOPLE.
“Bunker” will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September and is expected to be released in theaters in late 2026 to early 2027.
Entertainment
HBO’s 8-Part Masterpiece Perfected the Slow-Burn Crime Thriller Better Than ‘True Detective’
HBO has been light-years ahead of its competitors in the prestige television landscape. Acclaimed HBO limited series like Band of Brothers and The Pacific proved the network could bring cinematic scope to television. The 2016 legal series The Night Of fulfills these requirements, creating an eight-episode master class in tension. With its thorough examination of the legal process, The Night Of also proved to be a groundbreaking deconstruction of the systematic racial and ethical biases within the American justice system.
‘The Night Of’ Is a Whodunit That Empathizes With the Suspect
The Night Of follows Pakistani-American college student Naz Khan (Riz Ahmed) during a romantic evening he shares with a woman named Andrea Cornish (Sofia Black-D’Elia) after they meet at a party. Naz’s night is filled with bad decisions; he steals his father’s (Payman Maadi) taxi cab in order to attend the party, abuses drugs that cloud his memories, and gets arrested shortly thereafter after failing to comply with traffic laws. Although none of Naz’s activities are depicted as being malicious, the series shows how easily actions can be misinterpreted. Naz wakes up to find that Andrea has been stabbed to death. In retrospect, he realizes that all of his actions on the night that she was killed make him look overly suspicious. It’s the rare murder mystery story that is told exclusively through the perspective of the major suspect.
The brilliance of the inciting incident in The Night Of is that showrunner Steven Zaillian doesn’t treat anything within Naz’s routine as abnormal. This creates more suspense, as the consequences of Naz’s irresponsible behavior are only evident to the audience. The intensity continues to escalate because Naz realizes too late that he has cast doubt upon his own innocence. This gives him a burden of guilt that he carries with him for the rest of the series, as Naz is forced to reflect upon how different things could have been if he had never met Andrea in the first place. As Naz, Ahmed balances these feelings of guilt and regret in one of his greatest performances.
Although there are hints of romance within their brief interactions, Naz knows very little about Andrea before she is killed. This was an important decision, as the impersonal nature of the crime makes it more shocking. Naz doesn’t have the capacity to mourn Andrea’s death because he barely knows her, and does not have any hints as to why she was killed. While Andrea’s shocking death is unquestionably a tragic one, it’s really just an inciting incident that sparks the show’s deconstruction of the legal process. The specificity with which Zallian examines the legal procedures that Naz experiences evokes comparisons to the great courtroom drama films of the 1990s.
‘The Night Of’ Features a Stellar Supporting Cast
While it’s Naz’s perspective that the series focuses on, The Night Of explores all aspects of the legal process through its supporting cast. Naz’s lawyer, John Stone (John Turturro), makes for a fascinating co-lead in the series because of his conflicted feelings about the justice system. While Stone has reason to believe in Naz’s innocence, he continuously reminds him to stop telling “the truth” in order to make their case as convincing as possible. Stone recognizes that Naz’s honesty could lead the jury to make assumptions that would color their opinion of him. Turturro’s magnetic performance captures the world-weary nature of a grizzled, experienced attorney who recognizes that justice and honesty aren’t always the same thing.
Bill Camp is also terrific in a supporting role as Detective Sergeant Dennis Box, the investigator in charge of investigating Andrea’s death. In this role, Camp proves that he’s the type of actor who can give a memorable performance with only a brief amount of screen time. While it would have been easy for the series to depict Box as a remorseless villain with no compassion, his motivations for pursuing Naz never feel personal. Box’s pursuit of Naz is merely a byproduct of a larger infrastructural issue, as the legal system does not allow for a conclusive truth to be drawn. Camp depicts Box as someone who genuinely wants to see justice served. This depiction of law enforcement strengthens the series’ sense of realism. It also serves as an interesting point of comparison with Stone, as the series explores the different practices taken by lawyers and cops.
‘The Night Of’ Exposes Flaws In the Prison System
The Night Of examines the flaws within the prison system by showing how Naz’s personality is changed by his experience. The series brilliantly intertwines scenes of Stone interviewing people related to the case with Naz’s experiences in prison. As Naz attempts to survive abuse at the hands of both his fellow prisoners and the guards, he is forced to become a more violent person. After being treated like a criminal, Naz begins to act like one to survive. At a certain point, he realizes that his innocence will not protect him. It’s a disturbing concept, and the eight-episode run allows The Night Of to show more detail than most prison films would be capable of.
Although The Night Of tackles serious issues like over-policing and racial discrimination, it never loses sight of Naz’s perspective. While the story itself is fictional, Naz’s experiences are representative of larger systemic issues; the story becomes more powerful because the viewer is able to see how these issues affect an empathetic character. While by no means an easy watch, The Night Of is a master class in storytelling that refuses to abide by clichés commonly found in crime dramas. While its dour tone makes it difficult to cite as traditionally entertaining, The Night Of is a worthwhile examination of topics that couldn’t be more relevant.
The Night Of is available to stream on Max in the U.S.
Editor’s Note: The following contains spoilers for House of the Dragon Season 3, Episode 5.The Game of Thrones franchise has never shied away from dark stories, and the spinoffs have followed that lead. After all, Westeros has plenty of different horrors to choose from. However, House of the Dragon doubles down on this reputation for highlighting the most twisted parts of Westeros by finally detailing Harrenhal’s history. Of all of the castles in Westeros, Harrenhal has the most troubled past from its origins to its multiple inhabitants. The many tragedies that occur throughout its history make Harrenhal infamous and begin rumors of a curse. Yet House of the Dragon shows that this is more than superstition.
Harrenhal has played a large role in House of the Dragon, and it continues to be prominent in the latest season. In fact, Season 3 Episode 5, “Unbowed and Unbent,” hints at Harrenhal’s origins, which is where the horrors began. This moment shows that the franchise always has a chance to get darker and perhaps finally explains why Harrenhal is so unique.
‘House of the Dragon’ Reveals Harrenhal’s Dark Origins
Harrenhal may not be the gathering sight for an army anymore, but in Season 3, it is still an important place. Now Aemond’s (Ewan Mitchell) hiding spot, the castle receives unwanted guests trying to kill him thanks to the orders of Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy), but Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin) and Harrenhal’s eerie history protect him. Early in the episode, Alys scares away armed men by leaning into the castle’s reputation, specifically citing its bloody origins. This may seem like an intimidation tactic, but it is a major part of the castle’s legend.
Built by Harren the Black as a vanity project, Harrenhal was meant to be a grand castle larger than any other, but it quickly took a dark turn. Over the forty-year construction, thousands of captives died due to harsh conditions, as Alys mentions. Worse, rumor has it that Harren mixed human blood into the mortar of his stone in an unnecessary form of cruelty. This terrible beginning earns Harrenhal the reputation of being built on the blood of men, which fits right in with its creepy aesthetic.
However, that isn’t the only element of Harrenhal’s construction that plays into its haunted nature, as the castle has sacred Weirwood trees built into it. According to legend, Harren the Black ordered an ancient grove of Weirwood trees cut down and used in construction, disregarding their status in the old religion. This desecration is often cited as the reason Harrenhal is cursed, as it angered the Old Gods. Yet, the rumors of ghosts and a curse are only a symptom of the problem because Harrenhal has been a dark and threatening place from its very beginning.
‘House of the Dragon’ Shows Harrenhal’s Curse Unlike ‘Game of Thrones’
Be it the ghosts of those killed or the displeasure of the Old Gods, Harrenhal’s history does support the idea of it being cursed. From its immediate destruction in dragonfire during Aegon’s Conquest to the brutal extension of most Houses that ever held it, Harrenhal does seem to be cursed. House of the Dragon leans into Harrenhal’s reputation for dark magic even further, proving that it isn’t just a superstition. The castle has played a significant part in the prequel, but none of it has been good. Not only did several members of the Strong family die there in Season 1, but Daemon’s (Matt Smith) journey in Season 2 shows him experiencing terrifying visions during his time there. Now, Aemond is facing the same torment, once again showing that Harrenhal is more than a creepy castle, especially now that it is under Alys’ control.
This eerie supernatural tone is a distinct change from how the castle comes across in Game of Thrones. Harrenhal appears in a few memorable storylines in the original series, such as Arya’s (Maisie Williams) time disguised as a cupbearer for Tywin Lannister (Charles Dance) and Brienne’s (Gwendoline Christie) fight against a bear. However, these scenes do not highlight the dark magic that sets Harrenhal apart. In some ways, this makes sense as magic largely dies out before Game of Thrones, only to be slowly reawakened when Daenerys’ (Emilia Clarke) dragons hatch. In House of the Dragon, magic is still prevalent, and Harrenhal shows that, becoming a fitting way for the prequel to explore Westeros’ dark history. After seeing so much of the castle in House of the Dragon, it’s clear something supernatural is going on there, and Alys’ comments go a long way to explaining why Harrenhal is the way that it is.
House of the Dragon is streaming on HBO Max with new episodes on Sundays.
- Release Date
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August 21, 2022
- Network
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HBO
- Showrunner
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George R.R. Martin
- Directors
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Clare Kilner, Geeta Patel
- Writers
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Gabe Fonseca
-
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Fabien Frankel
Ser Criston Cole
HBO Max is expanding The Big Bang Theory universe with its Stuart Fails to Save the Universe spinoff — but who makes up the cast?
The Big Bang Theory, which aired on CBS from 2007 to 2019, starred Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Johnny Galecki, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch as a group of best friend scientists and their — sometimes polar opposite — significant others.
The Big Bang Theory won 10 Emmy Awards during its 12-season run and spawned the prequel series, Young Sheldon. The follow-up focused on Sheldon’s life (Iain Armitage) as a child prodigy growing up in Texas.
In addition to serving as an executive producer, Parsons acted as the narrator across all seven seasons — at one point even making an onscreen appearance as adult Sheldon in the 2024 finale.
The Big Bang Theory premiered nearly two decades ago — and the TV universe has only grown with three spinoffs (and counting)! The sitcom inspired a franchise when The Big Bang Theory aired from 2007 to 2019. It starred Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Johnny Galecki, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch as […]
Viewers met Sheldon’s brother, Georgie (Montana Jordan), which paved the way for his love story with Mandy (Emily Osment) to inspire another spinoff, Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage. Next up is Stuart Fails to Save the Universe, headlined by Kevin Sussman, Brian Posehn and Lauren Lapkus.
According to the official synopsis, Stuart Fails to Save the Universe follows Stuart Bloom as he is faced with the daunting task of “restoring reality after he breaks a device built by Sheldon and Leonard, accidentally bringing about a multiverse Armageddon.”
Stuart “is aided in this quest by his girlfriend Denise, geologist friend Bert and quantum physicist/all-around pain in the ass Barry Kripke. Along the way, they meet alternate-universe versions of characters we’ve come to know and love from The Big Bang Theory. As the title implies, things don’t go well.”
Keep scrolling to meet the cast:
Kevin Sussman
Sussman is reprising his role as Stuart Bloom, who appeared in the OG show.
Brian Posehn
Joining Sussman is Posehn’s character Bert from The Big Bang Theory.
Lauren Lapkus
Lapkus a.k.a Stuart’s girlfriend, Denise, is front and center in season 1 of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe.
John Ross Bowie
Bowie’s Barry Kripke is also part of the spinoff show.
Ryan Cartwright
Cartwright has been cast in the role of Kyle.
Josh Brener
Brener, meanwhile, plays Trevor on Stuart Fails to Save the Universe.
Tommy Walker
Walker is also on Stuart Fails to Save the Universe as Gary.
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