The first reactions to Supergirl have arrived, and if the early buzz is any indication, DC may have another major success on its hands.

Critics and journalists who attended early screenings have praised the film’s emotional storytelling, stunning visuals, and, above all else, Milly Alcock’s performance as Kara Zor-El. Many are calling her portrayal one of the standout superhero performances in recent years, describing her Supergirl as fierce, vulnerable, rebellious, and deeply human.

Entertainment journalist Brandon Davis wrote that Supergirl is “a visually stunning and emotionally rich adventure” and praised Alcock for delivering a “star-making performance.” Others echoed that sentiment, saying she completely owns the role and creates a version of Kara that feels dramatically different from Superman while remaining just as compelling.

Several reactions have highlighted the film’s unique tone, noting that it feels less like a traditional superhero movie and more like a cosmic fantasy adventure. The story reportedly embraces the darker, more emotional elements of the Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow comic, following Kara on an interstellar journey filled with loss, vengeance, and self-discovery.

One early reaction described the film as “heartbreaking, hilarious, and visually gorgeous,” while another praised director Craig Gillespie for creating a world that feels expansive and unlike anything previously seen in the DC Universe. Critics have also singled out the chemistry between Alcock and Eve Ridley, who plays Ruthye, saying their relationship forms the emotional core of the movie.

Credit: Warner Bros.

The praise surrounding Alcock has been especially consistent. In a recent profile, Gillespie praised the actress’s commitment and authenticity, while DC executives reportedly knew they had found their Supergirl after seeing her screen test. Her version of Kara is described as tougher, more emotionally scarred, and more rebellious than previous incarnations of the character.

That approach aligns closely with the film’s source material. Based on Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, the movie presents Kara not as an idealized hero, but as someone carrying the trauma of Krypton’s destruction while searching for her own purpose in the universe.

With Superman helping launch the new DC Universe and Supergirl now earning rave first reactions, fans have even more reason to be excited about the future of DC Studios.

If these early impressions hold true with audiences, Milly Alcock may have just delivered the definitive live-action Supergirl for a new generation.

While most of the gaming industry’s attention is currently focused on massive releases like Grand Theft Auto 6, one of the genre’s most influential RPG franchises quietly received a surprise update this week. More than a decade after the Enhanced Editions first arrived, Beamdog has released a substantial new patch for Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition, Baldur’s Gate 2: Enhanced Edition, and Icewind Dale: Enhanced Edition.

The update, officially labeled Version 2.7, marks the first major patch for the classic Infinity Engine titles in roughly 14 years. Rather than introducing new content, the update focuses on modernizing the experience for players who continue returning to the beloved RPGs that helped define the genre long before Baldur’s Gate 3 became a worldwide phenomenon.

The Classic RPGs Are Finally Getting Modern Features

Image via BioWare

One of the biggest additions in the 2.7 update is native support for Apple Silicon devices. Players using Apple’s newer M-series hardware can now run the games without relying on compatibility solutions, resulting in improved performance, faster launch times, and reduced power consumption on laptops. Beamdog has also overhauled cloud save functionality. Previously, Steam cloud saves for the games were managed through in-game settings. Following the update, cloud saves are now handled directly through Steam’s standard cloud save system, bringing the games in line with modern Steam releases. GOG Galaxy cloud saves have also received fixes.

The patch also includes a long list of quality-of-life improvements across PC and mobile platforms. Several new community-translated language options have been added, mobile keyboard functionality has been improved on iOS and Android devices, and support for modding on mobile platforms has been expanded. Android users also received fixes for foldable devices, character exports, and DLC recognition.

The full patch notes can be read below:

• Steam Cloud saves can now be controlled via the Steam client — Previously, the only way to enable or disable Steam Cloud Saves for BG1:EE, BG2:EE, and IWD:EE was within the Gameplay Options of the games. Now, Steam Cloud Saves are controlled by the Steam client and the individual game properties settings
• GOG Galaxy Cloud saves — now functioning properly
• Added Apple Silicon support — With native support for Apple Silicon, on Mac devices you can expect faster app launch times, overall improved performance, and faster rendering. In addition, laptops will benefit from lower power consumption while playing, leading to longer battery life
• New localizations — We added the following community-translated languages: BG:SoD – Chinese (Simplified), Korean, Russian; BGII – Brazilian Portuguese, Czech, Ukrainian; IWD – Hungarian, Japanese
• SoD language switch — Switching to the SoD campaign will now only display languages where SOD was translated. Previously, the game always displayed the full list of languages that BG1’s base game supported. If you are playing BG1 or The Black Pits in a language that SoD doesn’t support when you switch to the SoD campaign, the game will change the language to English automatically
• Dynamic language support — We made changes to allow easier language updates and additions in the future
• Chinese font change — At the request of the Chinese localization volunteers, we have changed the font for Chinese
• Font Size saved per font language — The Font Size zoom setting is now saved per font language
• Indexing Fix — Resolved an off‑by‑one error in rebuilt BIF files that affected some community tools
• iOS Restore Purchases — The “Restore Purchases” button has returned, allowing the game to sync with Apple’s purchase history
• Mobile Keyboard Improvements — The UI now shifts so the text cursor remains visible above the virtual keyboard, preventing cursor loss and mis‑registered taps on iOS & Android
• Android Foldable Support — Fixed UI scaling and touch‑input issues on foldable and tall‑aspect devices. The game now properly resizes when the device’s screen configuration changes
• Android Character Export — Exporting a character now also places the file into the user‑accessible directory
• iOS Modding now supported — The game now stores and reads data from a location visible to standard file browsers. You can manage saves and other files directly on your device or by connecting it to a computer.
• Android Override Folder Optimization — Fixed long boot delays caused by large /override/ folders. Importing is manual via an in‑game UI
• Android DLC Display Fix — The Fists of the Fallen DLC for BG2 now correctly shows as installed
• Android Modding now supported — This update resolves a bug that caused incorrect permissions, preventing access via PC or file browsers. Existing installations with incorrect permissions cannot be repaired. You must uninstall and reinstall the game. Because uninstalling removes saves, export them first and copy anything important to a PC

The update arrives at an interesting time for the franchise. Interest in the original Baldur’s Gate games has remained surprisingly strong following the massive success of Baldur’s Gate 3, which introduced an entirely new generation of players to the world of the Forgotten Realms. There are also recent reports suggesting remakes for the first two Baldur’s Gate games were on the way, though nothing official has been announced.

For longtime fans, the patch may not be as exciting as a brand-new expansion or sequel announcement. Still, seeing some of the most influential RPGs ever made receive meaningful improvements more than a decade after their re-release is a welcome surprise, especially as new players continue discovering where the Baldur’s Gate legacy began.

Bob Iger is setting the record straight about one of the most controversial media decisions of 2025. For the first time since ABC temporarily suspended “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following the comedian’s remarks about the killing of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, the former Disney CEO is explaining why the company took action and insists it had nothing to do with political pressure from President Donald Trump.

In a new interview with the Financial Times, Iger addressed the controversy and pushed back on claims that Disney suspended Kimmel to appease the Trump administration. “That was not the case,” Iger said.

Instead, Iger explained that Disney executives believed Kimmel’s comments about the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s death crossed a line. “We thought it was in bad taste,” he added.

The decision ultimately resulted in “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” being pulled from ABC’s lineup for a week before the late-night host returned to the air.

The controversy erupted after Kimmel addressed the political fallout surrounding the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a monologue on his show. “We had some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it,” Kimmel said.

The comments immediately sparked backlash from conservative figures and eventually drew the attention of FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who publicly encouraged local broadcasters to preempt the program. Later that day, some station owners did exactly that, and ABC subsequently announced Kimmel’s temporary suspension.

Disney Executives Reportedly Held A ‘Thoughtful Conversation’ With Kimmel

According to reports from The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Deadline, Iger and then-Disney Entertainment co-chair Dana Walden personally spoke with Kimmel before the suspension was announced.

Iger indicated that Disney’s issue wasn’t necessarily the comedian’s politics but rather the timing of the remarks. “We just wanted him to acknowledge that it was an ill-timed and probably inappropriate comment,” Iger said.

Kimmel ultimately returned to the air one week later, and while many were supportive, one person was not happy about the news: Donald Trump. “I can’t believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back. The White House was told by ABC that his Show was canceled,” President Donald Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.

He added, “Something happened between then and now because his audience is GONE, and his ‘talent’ was never there. Why would they want someone back who does so poorly, who’s not funny, and who puts the Network in jeopardy by playing 99% positive Democrat GARBAGE.”

The President of the United States later claimed that Kimmel was “yet another arm of the DNC and, to the best of my knowledge, that would be a major Illegal Campaign Contribution.”

“I think we’re going to test ABC out on this,” he continued. “Let’s see how we do. Last time I went after them, they gave me $16 Million Dollars. This one sounds even more lucrative. A true bunch of losers! Let Jimmy Kimmel rot in his bad Ratings.”

The Suspension Sparked Massive Backlash

Disney’s decision to suspend Kimmel’s show generated immediate criticism from across the entertainment industry. Hundreds of actors, comedians, producers, and television personalities publicly supported Kimmel, including Tom Hanks, Jennifer Aniston, Pedro Pascal, and more.

The move also drew criticism from former Disney CEO Michael Eisner, who appeared to take aim at company leadership in a social media post about defending free speech and standing up to political pressure.

Charlie Kirk’s Death Sent Shockwaves Through The Political World

The controversy unfolded in the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s death in September 2025. The Turning Point USA founder was fatally shot while appearing at an event on the campus of Utah Valley University. He was 31 years old.

Authorities later arrested a 22-year-old Utah man in connection with the shooting. Prosecutors have alleged the suspect targeted Kirk because of his political beliefs and have indicated they intend to seek the death penalty if he is convicted.

John F. Kennedy‘s grandson Jack Schlossberg was hoping to continue his family’s political legacy, but his dream came up short.

Schlossberg’s run for office came to an end on Tuesday, June 23, when he failed to secure the Democratic nomination in New York’s 12th Congressional District.

After running his campaign against fellow Democratic candidates including state Assemblyman Micah Lasher, state Assemblyman Alex Bores, lawyer George Conway and public health researcher Nina Schwalbe, Schlossberg, 33, ultimately finished the primary in third place. Lasher received the most votes and will be on the ballot during the general election in November.

Schlossberg, who is the son of Caroline Kennedy and Edwin Schlossberg, announced his campaign in November 2025. Weeks later, Jack’s sister Tatiana Schlossberg died at age 35 after a battle with leukemia.

Related: Who Is Vogue’s Jack Schlossberg? Meet JFK’s Only Grandson

Jack Schlossberg may be the sole grandson of late President John F. Kennedy but he’s currently blowing up on social media. Jack, 31, is the youngest son of Caroline Kennedy and Edwin Schlossberg. He got on the Internet’s radar earlier this year after he went viral for opening a coconut in May. After making a […]

Jack returned to the campaign trail after mourning his family’s loss.

“The last thing that she said to me was, ‘You better win,’” Jack said of his sister during a March appearance on CBS Sunday Morning.

Amid his grassroots efforts to get elected, Jack faced obstacles, with The New York Times publishing a report in May that referred to his campaign as “chaotic” and “erratic.” The report included allegations that he had high staff turnover and was often absent for long periods of time without explanation.

“Just hours into his Day 1 launch, the candidate abruptly announced a change of plans, according to three people familiar with the events,” the report claimed. “Forget dialing for dollars — Mr. Schlossberg said he needed a nap. He then effectively disappeared for the day, leaving his team reeling.”

Jack, for his part, directly addressed the claims.

“There’s a lot in that article that’s not true, but you know how this works: Once you’re declared the frontrunner and early voting starts in less than a month, everyone’s got something to say,” he told Inside Politics host Dana Bash at the time.

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

He added: “I’m a decisive person, and I run an operation that is nimble and small. … I have a core group of people who have been with me since the beginning.”

Before results were called on election night, Jack thanked campaign staff and issued a strong message about fighting “corruption” in politics.

“We don’t just need younger candidates. We need different people,” he said, per the Associated Press. “Unless Democrats learn from the signals that are being sent all across the country, we are going to keep on losing.”

Jelly Roll can bank on his close pals’ support as he navigates life after filing for divorce from Bunnie XO!

The country singer’s friend has revealed that he is carrying on well amid his marital woes, while applauding him for extending that composure to his public dealings.

Jelly Roll headed to court on May 18, 2026, to file for divorce from Bunnie XO after about a decade of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences in Williamson County, Tennessee.

The country singer was publicly backed by his close friends following reports about his split from Bunnie XO. Country stars Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay discussed how well the singer was faring during an appearance at Travis Kelce’s Tight Ends & Friends Concert in Nashville with Page Six.

According to Smyers, he recently crossed paths with Roll, and things seemed great with the singer, although the interaction between them was very brief. He continued that Roll seemed to be in a good place, while expressing his satisfaction with him doing well.

Mooney also spoke warmly about howRoll and Bunnie have handled the attention surrounding their reported divorce. He discussed that navigating a personal separation in the public eye is incredibly difficult and confirmed that the estranged couple has approached the situation with maturity and grace. 

Mooney acknowledged how challenging such circumstances could be and expressed support for both of them moving forward. Smyers also praised Roll’s recent social media post, which focused on his fitness journey, declaring that he felt proud to see his friend embracing growth and sharing such a personal milestone publicly.

The Grammy Winner Scored A New Gig Amid Ex Opening Up About The Split

The Blast shared that the singer expanded his portfolio with a hosting gig a few days ago when he was announced as one of the several celebrity guest hosts to fill in for Jimmy Kimmel on “Jimmy Kimmel Live.”

Kimmel will be heading off for a two-month summer break, leaving his show in the hands of a roster of celebrities, including Tiffany Haddish, Colman Domingo, Anthony Anderson, and more.

The news came as a cushion for the current fixation around Roll’s personal life following his divorce from Bunnie. While the announcement dropped, Bunnie was spotted sharing some painful truths about her marriage to the singer on her podcast, especially the rough patch they encountered over the past year and a half.

According to the model, the communication gap between them became too wide for comfort, and the emotional weight felt unbearable for her as she had to do most of it alone. Bunnie added that she assumed the role of the glue in the marriage and had to deal with their different approaches at handling conflict. 

Mother’s Day reportedly became the breaking point in their union after she told Roll to file for divorce in the middle of an argument, and he went ahead to do just that.

In retrospect, Bunnie admitted she never expected things to progress that far, adding that although she commented with anger, she did not view the decision as fully mutual.

Jelly Roll Sent A Public Shoutout To Bunnie XO

Bunnie continued on the podcast that their marriage ending does not translate to an end to their friendship, as they remain on good terms and continue to care deeply for one another through the process.

She explained that mutual respect and a healthy interaction will be their watchword while they try to handle the transition.

Bunnie also added that their plans to grow a family have not completely disappeared, sharing that they are still continuing the IVF journey they began nearly two years ago.

Roll equally addressed the situation during a concert in New York and publicly supported what Bunnie had shared, telling fans her account reflected the truth.

He publicly thanked his estranged wife for the decade they had spent together and shared his expectations that their bond would endure for years after the end of their union.

In the same vein, Roll shut down any speculation that infidelity led to the demise of their union, although Bunnie had revealed on the podcast that Roll is fired up and ready to date. 

The Estranged Couple’s Lifestyle Difference Caused A Strain On Their Marriage

Bunnie and Roll made their mark on the celebrity scene as a couple that did not hold back on everything, until the country singer encountered a lifestyle change a few months back.

The Blast noted that Roll made headlines for his speech at the Grammys in February, where he publicly flaunted the Bible on stage and reestablished his faith.

While opinions were torn on his bold move, the speech also affected his marriage as it began to open up discussion about the huge disparity in the carefree nature of Bunnie and Roll’s newly embraced conservative lifestyle.

Sources noted that Bunnie’s continued journey on the path of discussing adult topics on her podcast, sharing revealing images of herself, and holding nothing back began to truncate Roll’s efforts to rewrite the public narrative about him.

“At every turn, she’s kind of embarrassing him and undoing the PR story they’re trying to create. That’s the talk around Nashville,” a source shared.

Bunnie, who stepped back from sex work in 2023, had revealed in her last podcast episode that she did run escorts to sort the bills earlier on in Roll’s career. She noted that while the singer would go on tour, she would meet up with clients on the side in order to make money for both of them.

Jelly Roll’s Former Partner Has An Idea About His Next Love Interest

Quite the supportive ex, Bunnie spoke glowingly about Roll’s current mindset of him looking after his health, building confidence, and relishing his phase of personal growth.

She added that Roll has also not strayed away from his habit of valuing affection and close connections, which is why he is seemingly moving on romantically.

While she is not looking forward to any romantic commitments at the moment, Bunnie encouraged interested single women not to hesitate reaching out to the singer. She revealed that she is ready and willing to be a supportive ex; o far, his new love interest treats him with honesty and respect.

Bunnie added that after decades together with Roll, he may likely date somebody very different from her moving forward, who is low-key and not in the public glare the way she is. The podcaster expressed her belief that he would be happier by going for a much quieter person.

A federal judge has reportedly blocked the Trump administration from banning SNAP recipients from using their benefits on soda and candy.

RELATED: Democratic States Could Face SNAP Restriction As Trump Administration Reportedly Cracks Down On Fraud (UPDATE)

Federal Judge Reportedly Blocks Trump Administration From Banning SNAP Recipients From Using Benefits On Soda & Candy

According to CNN, on Monday, June 22, a federal judge blocked the Trump administration from imposing SNAP bans on five states. Specifically, blocking the ban on the purchase of sodas, candy, and other food items. US District Judge Amy Berman Jackson reportedly ruled that “the US Department of Agriculture lacked the authority to approve” apparent “pilot projects” in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, Tennessee. and West Virginia. To note, in each state, the ban somewhat differed.

Per the outlet, “five food stamp enrollees” who pushed back against the initiative argued that the items are needed “to address Type 1 diabetes, kidney issues, and lack of energy.”

“The federal defendants and the states may have a genuine desire to improve the health of SNAP households by encouraging healthy choices at the store, and they can take lawful steps to meet those goals. But what they cannot do is violate the law and their own regulations along the way,” Jackson reportedly noted in her decision.

Since then, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, a proponent of the ban, has taken to X, asserting, “SNAP is for food — not sugar bombs fueling obesity, diabetes, and skyrocketing healthcare costs for low-income families. Taxpayers shouldn’t subsidize junk food and drinks at the expense of American health.”

Social Media Reacts To Federal Judge Reportedly Blocking Trump Administration From Banning SNAP Recipients From Using Benefits On Soda & Candy

Social media users reacted to the federal judge’s block on the Trump administration’s effort in TSR’s comment section.

More On The Initiative

As The Shade Room previously reported, earlier this year, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia adopted SNAP bans on soda, candy, and other food items. At the time, the United States Department of Agriculture shared a statement asserting that the update was a “key step in ensuring that taxpayer dollars provide nutritious options that improve health outcomes within SNAP.”

Previously, Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr has reportedly stated that “Every American who wants to eat a donut ought to be able to eat it or drink a Coke. But the federal taxpayer should not be paying to poison our children. And we’re going to end that.”

RELATED: REPORT: SNAP Bans On Soda, Candy & Other Food Items Begin Taking Effect In Select States

Sophie Brussaux, the mom of Drake’s son, Adonis, married Turkish Muay Thai fighter Efe Calikan on Father’s Day.

RELATED: Time Flies! Social Media Users Are Doin’ A Double-Take After Drake & Adonis Attended Toronto Raptors Game

Sophie Brussaux, Mom Of Drake’s Son, Marries Turkish Muay Thai Fighter Efe Caliskan On Father’s Day

According to the New York Post, Sophie Brussaux tied the knot with Efe Calikan during a ceremony in North York, Toronto, Canada, on Sunday, June 22. Per the outlet, the pair were surrounded by close family and friends. However, it remains unclear whether Brussaux and Drake’s son, Adonis, was in attendance.

Per the outlet, Efe Calikan is a professional fighter who currently practices Muay Thai, which Google credits as a “dynamic martial art.”

Furthermore, the outlet reports that Calikan laced Brussaux with a “7-carat pear-shaped diamond.”

See more photos and videos from their big day below.

Social Media Reacts To Mom Of Drake’s Son Marrying Turkish Muay Thai Fighter Efe Caliskan On Father’s Day

Social media users slid into the comment section of a joint post shared to Sophie Brussaux’s Instagram profile with their reactions.

More On Sophie Brussaux

Sophie Brussaux made headlines in October 2025. As The Shade Room previously reported, at the time, she and Drake came together to celebrate Adonis’ eighth birthday. At the time, clips surfaced showing the pair and their son at his cowboy-themed party.

RELATED: Time Flies! Fans React To Updated Photo Of Adonis As Drake & Sophie Brussaux Link Up To Celebrate His 8th Birthday (VIDEOS)

More than a decade after Whitney Houston’s death, a new dispute has reignited conversation about one of the most scrutinized periods of her life.

Comments recently made by Oprah Winfrey about the late singer have drawn a sharp response from Houston’s estate, which argues that an incident from 2009 has been mischaracterized.

The controversy began after Oprah Winfrey shared a story during an appearance at Cannes Lions, where she reflected on the influence and responsibility that came with hosting one of television’s most powerful talk shows.

During the discussion, Winfrey recalled her experiences interviewing Whitney Houston and described a moment she says occurred when the singer returned to her show years after struggling with substance abuse.

Her comments quickly generated headlines, but they also prompted an immediate response from Houston’s estate.

Advertisement

Pat Houston, Whitney Houston’s sister-in-law and the executor of her estate, disputed Winfrey’s version of events in a strongly worded statement posted on Instagram.

According to Pat, the singer did indeed fall, but the circumstances were very different from what was being suggested.

Pat wrote, “From the 2009 interview on the Oprah Winfrey show, Whitney absolutely fell off stage, but it was during a sound check and it was due to the darkness of the area and her unfamiliarity with the stage. She was absolutely not high.”

Pat also criticized attempts to connect every difficult moment in the singer’s life to her well-documented personal struggles.

Advertisement

She added, “This story was picked up by several media outlets. Like many people, she faced personal battles, but it is inaccurate and unfair to attach that struggle to every performance or every chapter of her life.”

Whitney Houston Family Defends Her Professional Legacy

Pat Houston argued that the narrative being repeated does not accurately reflect what happened and overlooks the professionalism Whitney Houston consistently brought to her work.

In her statement, Pat emphasized that audience members witnessed a performer dedicated to her craft rather than someone impaired by drugs.

Advertisement

“What the studio audience witnessed on stage was the result of discipline, talent, and commitment not the assumptions others project,” she wrote.

She also urged the public to remember the singer in a fair and balanced way, acknowledging both her achievements and personal challenges.

Pat added, “Whitney’s humanity included triumphs and struggles, but on that day, she showed up as the professional and gifted artist she always worked to be. We owe her the dignity of telling the truth not repeating myths.”

Oprah Winfrey Recalls A Private Conversation

Advertisement

During her appearance at the Lumière Theatre, Winfrey reflected on one of her interviews with Whitney Houston and described the approach she took before the cameras started rolling.

As The Blast reported, the media icon said she wanted to establish trust before the conversation began.

She shared, “We did the whole, ‘Hey girl, how you doing?’ greeting thing and then I stopped the cameras, and I went behind stage, and I said, ‘So tell me, what do you want to happen here? And I’m gonna tell you what I want to happen here.’”

Winfrey later reflected on the result of that conversation and how meaningful it became, noting, “And that was one of the most powerful interviews.”

Advertisement

However, it was her later comments about Whitney’s return appearance that attracted the most attention.

Whitney Houston Fall Becomes Center Of New Debate

Oprah Winfrey claimed that Houston returned to “The Oprah Winfrey Show” at a time when she had relapsed and that an incident occurred while she was preparing to perform.

Recalling the moment, Winfrey said, “I had such trust from ‘The Oprah Show’ audience … I think it was [Houston’s] last show with us, and she had gone back on drugs.”

Advertisement

She continued, “The first interview I did with her when we’d gone behind stage and I asked her about her intention, she was clean, but the day she came to my show then to perform in front of the audience, she was not, and she fell off of the stage.”

According to Winfrey, her concern at the time centered on protecting Whitney from further public embarrassment.

She explained, “I knew that if that story got out … she would be destroyed by that. And so even though the audience was there and the audience had cameras, I begged them not to put those pictures out because it would ruin her life, and they did not. That would not happen today, I can tell you that.”

Those remarks became the catalyst for the estate’s public response.

Advertisement

Fans Question Why The Story Emerged Now

The dispute quickly spilled onto social media, where many fans questioned the timing of Oprah Winfrey’s comments.

Some critics pointed out that if the talk show host believed keeping the incident private was important at the time, they struggled to understand why it was being discussed publicly years later.

Others wondered what purpose was served by revisiting a story connected to one of the most difficult chapters of Whitney Houston’s life.

By Chris Snellgrove
| Updated 39 seconds ago

My first world problem is simple: Star Trek is my favorite franchise, and Paramount has systematically run it into the ground, canceling show after show due to low viewership. That’s annoying, of course, but that’s not my problem … at least, not exactly. My problem is that any time I complain about changes made by NuTrek, I get swarmed by fanboys claiming these shows are perfect and I must be some weird, right-wing bigot if I don’t agree. God forbid I complain about any changes to the franchise formula or lore, which results in those same fans crying out, in unison, “Star Trek has always been like that!”

In truth, Paramount has made countless changes to Star Trek in the ongoing effort to do the seemingly impossible: lure new, younger fans to the franchise. Perhaps the best example of this is the weird will they/won’t they relationship between Spock and Chapel in Strange New Worlds. Some diehard fans believe their relationship is in line with what we saw in The Original Series, and others give the portrayal of a very human Spock a pass because the actors have such fun chemistry together. However, according to one of the greatest original Trek writers, Chapel was originally created to emphasize Spock’s aloofness rather than his hidden humanity.

Kiss The Old Spock Goodbye

The arguments about Spock and Chapel’s relationship in Strange New Worlds are tied to a larger, ongoing debate about Spock’s portrayal in the show. As with other Vulcans, he suppresses his feelings so much that most consider him completely emotionless. That is how he was portrayed by Leonard Nimoy, whose Spock frequently got into debates with the overly emotional Dr. McCoy. While SNW is nominally a prequel to The Original Series, it has Ethan Peck playing a very different Spock, one who smiles, cracks jokes, rages out, and endlessly pines for Chapel despite having a Vulcan fiancée back home

Critics of Strange New Worlds have singled out the Spock/Chapel relationship for breaking several parts of established lore. For one thing, SNW goes out of its way to establish a Spock/Chapel/T’Pring love triangle, but in TOS, Spock hadn’t seen T’Pring since she was a child. For another thing, while the Chapel of The Original Series did flirt with Spock, he never reciprocated, which seems weird now that we know he was loudly singing about how much he wanted her just a few years earlier. This is a huge departure from what TOS writer David Gerrold said was Chapel’s true purpose: to emphasize how aloof and alien Spock really is.

The Real Reason Chapel Was Created

David Gerrold is one of the more important figures in Star Trek lore. He wrote some amazing Original Series episodes, including the Hugo-nominated  “The Trouble With Tribbles.” Later, Gerrold became a story editor for The Next Generation and wrote most of that series’ bible. He also wrote a number of great reference books, including The World of Star Trek. In that book, he wrote that Chapel “was obviously created specifically” to love Spock and that “The need to dramatize Spock’s Vulcan aloofness requires that a woman fall in love with him and be continually rebuffed. Hence, Nurse Chapel.”

In other words, the best way to show how inhuman this alien character really is was to have a drop-dead gorgeous woman throwing herself at him and him showing no interest. But Strange New Worlds flipped this formula on its head, using Chapel to constantly signal how human this alien really is. The writers and producers likely did this to add a little more romantic tension to the show, lest everything get mired in special effects and moral dilemmas. Whether you love or hate their onscreen pairing, one thing is abundantly clear: these characters and their situation are written completely differently than they were in The Original Series.  

More Human Than Human  

At the risk of sounding like an old crank (who, me?), this dramatic change emphasizes everything wrong with NuTrek. There isn’t much regard for who these characters are and how they would realistically act. Instead, everything is written to court some non-existent younger viewers who are more into CW-style drama and less into exploring strange, new worlds. Unfortunately, this adds up to the worst of both worlds: major changes to characters and lore drive away older fans, and younger fans never show up. What we are left with is a show with a dwindling audience, which is why SNW was canceled early and given such a short final season.

Now, Strange New Worlds is still an entertaining TV show, and it’s light-years better than Starfleet Academy (the ultimate “let’s make one for the kids” Star Trek TV show). But as the show gets near the time frame of The Original Series, older fans will be paying closer and closer attention to how well it adheres to established lore. If it does a good job, this show may ultimately stick its landing and cement its reputation as a solid complement to TOS. If the show keeps breaking lore and characters to pander to a non-existent audience, though, SNW may one day be considered the greatest example of how NuTrek completely failed.