Longtime fans of The Rookie were thrown a gigantic curveball in the show’s Season 8 finale. Tim Bradford (Eric Winter) finally proposed to Lucy Chen (Melissa O’Neil). She said yes, and all seemed right with the world — until the two were kidnapped by assailants working for the criminal Heath Everett (Jeffrey Vincent Parise), leaving viewers on a gut-punching cliffhanger. Unfortunately, viewers won’t find out what happens to Tim and Lucy until the show returns for its ninth season in 2027! The good news is that the show will kick off Season 9 with an exciting new storyline, marking a major change in the Chenford dynamic.

Season 9 Can Finally Move Away From Chenford’s Relationship Drama

After failing to give fans what they wanted in Season 7, the writers of The Rookie finally delivered the Tim and Lucy reunion early in Season 8. During Season 9, the couple primarily navigated the challenges of living together while also still working in the Mid-Wilshire Division together, and Lucy met Tim’s mother, Joy (Sela Ward). Now, they’ve been kidnapped by dangerous individuals who want them dead. The Season 9 premiere of The Rookie throws the couple into a fight for their lives, and their colleagues into a race against the clock to rescue them. This promises an action-heavy plot, so The Rookie will hit the ground running when the curtain rises on Season 9. The Mid-Wilshire Division will be thrust into a pulse-pounding adventure as Tim and Lucy’s friends desperately seek to help their teammates. That’s a lot more exciting than the melodrama over whether Tim and Lucy can finally reconcile their romance.

‘The Rookie Season 9 Will Open With a Huge Two-Parter

We don’t know much about The Rookie Season 9 premiere, but series creator and showrunner Alexi Hawley dropped a couple of tantalizing details during the show’s panel at the 2026 San Diego Comic-Con. Season 9 opens with a two-parter that will be “huge” in scope. Melissa O’Neil informed TV Insider that Tim and Lucy are in deep trouble, with the couple “currently incapacitated, unconscious with bags on their heads,” and Eric Winter noting that they’re “fighting for their lives.” O’Neil also teased that the two will likely be separated, which will likely cause emotional turmoil for Tim.

Lucy is an experienced undercover officer, and Bradford is a military combat veteran, which gives them an edge to survive this ordeal. This also isn’t the first time Lucy has been kidnapped, as fans will recall she was kidnapped by the serial killer Caleb Wright (Michael Cassidy) back in Season 2, who attempted to bury her alive. As traumatic as that ordeal was for Lucy, she’s a tough and hardened survivor. Although it’s an intense scenario, it provides potential for great, suspenseful storytelling.

The Mid-Wilshire Division Will Be All Hands on Deck

Image via ABC

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The other exciting aspect about the storyline to start Season 9 is that it will put the entire Mid-Wilshire Division on alert, with all hands on deck in the search for Tim and Lucy. The Mid-Wilshire Division has become an extended family over the years, and all the main cast members have a personal stake in finding their friends. Tim and Angela Lopez (Alyssa Diaz) are best friends, with Angela even taking an active role in helping Tim and Lucy get back together early in Season 8.

On Lucy’s side, Nyla Harper (Mekia Cox) and Lucy bonded and grew closer back when Nyla mentored Lucy during her UC training and then again when they went undercover in Season 8. Lucy and Celina Juarez (Lisseth Chavez) became roommates and lived together throughout Season 7, and Celina looks up to Lucy as a veteran officer. Meanwhile, Angela’s husband, defense attorney Wesley Evers (Shawn Ashmore), will likely feel responsible for Tim and Lucy’s kidnapping, since he briefly served as part of Heath Everett’s defense team near the end of the season. That will provide a strong emotional motivation for Wesley in the storyline, as he seeks to redeem himself with Tim.

For their former watch commander, Wade Grey (Richard T. Jones), Lucy and Tim are like his “kids,” as the actor refers to them when speaking to TV Insider. Grey is a father figure to both officers, grooming Tim to be his replacement as the new Watch Commander, and supervising Lucy from her first days as a rookie officer. This big-time storyline will showcase how important Tim and Lucy are to the entire crew, who will stop at nothing to make sure their friends return home safely. Although it’s a long wait, The Rookie Season 9 will kick off with a bang when it returns to ABC next year.

Joint discomfort doesn’t just affect athletes or people recovering from injuries. Everyday wear and tear can leave knees, shoulders, elbows and other joints feeling stiff over time, making it more important than ever to take action before your daily mobility is negatively impacted.

Enter MOVE+ by Kineon, a wearable red and infrared light therapy device — the kind of light physios use in clinic — that you wrap around a sore knee, shoulder or foot for about ten minutes a day. Think of light as a charger for tired cells: it gives the tissue in a sore joint more of the energy it needs to repair. Most red-light panels scatter at the skin; MOVE+ adds medical-grade lasers that stay focused enough to reach the deeper tissue where the pain actually lives.

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Unlike bulky recovery equipment or complicated gadgets, MOVE+ is lightweight, wearable and totally hands-free. All it takes is ten minutes while you work or sit on the couch. Right now you can save $50 with code USM10.

Red and near-infrared light work with the body’s natural recovery process, making the technology an increasingly popular addition to modern wellness routines. MOVE+ isn’t a quick fix — the benefits build over weeks of consistent use, according to real-life users.

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Recovery isn’t just for athletes; it’s becoming part of how people support long-term health and wellness to maintain an active lifestyle. If you’ve been curious about wearable wellness technology, MOVE+ makes recovery feel a little more effortless.

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Travis Kelce has formally corroborated his sister-in-law Kylie Kelce’s claim that three of her daughters already have him “wrapped” around their pinkies.

Kylie, 34, revealed on the Thursday, July 30, episode of her “Not Gonna Lie” podcast that Travis, 36, is a complete pushover when it comes to his nieces Wyatt, 6, Ellie, 5, and Bennett, 3. The jury is still out, however, for Finnley, who was born in March 2025.

“Confirmed!!” Travis wrote on Saturday, August 1, in the Instagram comments section of footage of the podcast clip. “Only a matter of time til Finn has me wrapped around her finger too.”

Kylie married Travis’ brother, retired Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, before they welcomed their four little girls. Since then, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end has become the ultimate uncle.

“I think they all know that he is very down for anything they ask him to do or play. He’s in it,” Kylie revealed on Thursday about Travis’ bond with her kids. “They know that he’s a willing participant and will very rarely get a ’No.’”

The field hockey coach continued, “Typically, when they see Uncle Trav, it’s everybody in. I would say the only person who does not have Uncle Trav wrapped around their finger is Finn, and that’s because Finn wants nothing to do with anybody. Finn is mom’s child.”

While 17-month-old Finn is focused solely on her mother’s attention, Kylie explained that her eldest daughters often go “fullcourt press him whenever they see” Travis.

“I would say [Wyatt and Ellie] are more into the type of all-in play that both dad and Uncle Trav play,” Kylie recalled. “Uncle Trav will get down on the floor and play a quiet game of Barbies, but he will do the throw, launch, all that stuff, and the two older girls are more into that stuff. Bennett is — she’s a lady. She has pearls. She can’t be bothered with that type of play.”

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Related: Kylie Kelce Gushes Over How Travis and Taylor Swift Play With Her Kids

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Kylie Kelce is opening up about the sweet bond brother-in-law Travis Kelce and his fiancée, Taylor Swift, share with her and Jason Kelce‘s four daughters. During the Friday, February 6, episode of Kylie’s “Not Gonna Lie” podcast, Travis, 36, revealed the biggest request he gets from his nieces — Wyatt, 6, Ellie, 4, Bennett, 2, […]

Wyatt, Ellie, Bennett and Finn all got a chance to show off their bond with Travis when they served as flower girls during his wedding to now-wife Taylor Swift last month. (Swift, 36, and Travis said “I do” inside New York City’s Madison Square Garden arena after three years of dating.)

“It was a special event for our entire family, and obviously my daughters are incredible,” Jason, 38, told reporters at the American Century Championship last month. “They’re beautiful, they’re incredible personalities. … So, very happy we were able to be a part of it. And more importantly, very happy for those two. It was an amazing day.”

Jason was his brother’s best man, while Taylor enlisted her sibling, Austin Swift, to be her Man of Honor in lieu of a traditional bridal party.

Former NFL player and Aussie Rules football star Patrick Murtagh and his girlfriend, Hannah Orval, endured the ramifications of a pregnancy loss one year before their baby boy was born sleeping.

“From the outside it can feel like everyone is blessed with their pregnancies, able to carry a child time after time without struggle,” Orval, 27, wrote to fans via Instagram in May. “Though I have come to understand it is just that we don’t talk about the other side of it. And personally we couldn’t at the time either so I understand why. But now I want to bring light to something that I hope no two people ever feel alone in again.”

Orval and Murtagh, 26, announced in a joint statement on Friday, July 31, that their baby son Meelo Michael Murtagh entered the world stillborn.

“Meelo Michael Murtagh, born into this big world early and sleeping. 🤍👼 he will forever be the biggest missing piece of the rest of our story. to be a family for even just for a day was irreplaceable,” the couple wrote. “Childbirth, I would do it over again every day in every lifetime to meet him. we are absolutely devestated [SIC], but forever our biggest achievement in life.”

Related: Hailey Okula’s Husband Marks 1 Year After Her Death From Childbirth

Hailey Okula’s husband, Matt, is paying tribute to the influencer one year after her death at age 33. “Crew’s 1st Birthday 🎂March 29 was Crew’s first birthday, and also a day of reflecting on losing Hailey a year earlier. Being surrounded by family and close friends at Hailey and my favorite campground made it a […]

Later, the influencer penned a personal letter to Meelo where she wrote that it was “a dream for a lifetime of being” his mother.

“I walk you through your next life too because I’ll always be your mumma,” Orval vowed via her Instagram Stories. “My heart will forever be frozen in time to the day we met you. Your little fingers, your little toes, your daddy’s nose.”

Calling childbirth “the most sacred thing” she’d experienced, Orval reached out to other mothers who have lost children.

“The pain that we, as mothers, would choose to go through over and over again in every lifetime. Nothing could ever prepare you for the feeling of your baby touching your skin for the first time, now I understand,” she wrote. “Though we are strong as mothers to bare these children, I 1785650857 understood more in that moment the real power of who we choose to have kids with.”

Two months before the loss of Meelo, Orval revealed in a powerful Instagram post that she and the athlete previously suffered a pregnancy loss in 2025.

“Last year we were so excited to be having our daughter. Our first child, our first pregnancy. We also then simultaneously carried the grief of a missed miscarriage,” she recalled. “Unfortunately at our 12.5 week scan we were made aware her heartbeat could no longer be found. She had unfortunately stopped growing the week prior & I had shown no signs of miscarriage. My body had not told me in any way so we were utterly shocked by the news.”

Orval clarified that the heartbreaking news came during a period of tremendous upheaval in her and Patrick’s lives as he was deep into training for the NFL. (Patrick signed with the Denver Broncos practice squad in August 2025 after being waived by the Jacksonville Jaguars that May.)

“A different country, a new state, a new team, a new bunch of faces. Just us two to carry something so great. Timelines, decisions, surgeries, recovery, grief. It truely [SIC] was a cruel experience and I want to give my heart to the many that face this,” she wrote.

She went on, “To carry both life and death. It does something profound to you. I craved the comfort of knowing other people had the same struggle, the same story. Though I didn’t want that experience for anyone else, I did want to know it wasn’t my fault, that I was not alone. I did everything right? Why us?”

Orval stressed that she was sharing her story so any couples going through similarly traumatic experiences will know that they aren’t alone.

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“I by no means share this to scare anyone but I do want people to feel seen, to understand it is not their fault. They aren’t alone in that story, that grief or that loneliness,” she noted. “I hope this can open up conversation about the struggles many face. That it encourages women and men to both lean on their people for support during times of grief and struggle. You are never alone.”

She poignantly concluded her by post, writing, “The first piece of us is a piece that will always be missing.”

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio is unable or unwilling to say if his daughter Emily Moreno’s ex-husband, Rep. Max Miller, should resign after Emily accused the Ohio congressman of domestic violence, including breaking their daughter’s — the senator’s granddaughter’s — collarbone.

“I don’t know,” Moreno told political outlet NOTUS on Friday, July 31, when he was asked if Miller should be replaced in a contested race that could determine which political party controls the House.

According to court documents obtained by Mother Jones and The New York Times, Emily — who filed for divorce in 2024 — has accused her ex of throwing hot water on her body, holding a gun to her head, pushing her with enough force to hurt her and breaking their daughter’s collarbone.

Miller has vehemently denied the allegations, claiming his ex-wife is not “all there.” He has subsequently sued Emily for defamation, according to The Guardian.

Related: What to Know About Eric Swalwell’s Misconduct Scandal and Investigation

Congressman Eric Swalwell is facing sexual assault allegations from multiple women, a Manhattan District Attorney’s investigation and calls from top Democrats to end his campaign for California governor. Four women — including a former staffer who claims the politician raped her — accused Swalwell in April 2026 of sexual misconduct and harassment. Swalwell has categorically […]

Like Moreno, many Republicans are either staying silent or continuing to support Rep. Miller in the wake of the allegations.

“While we won’t dignify this baseless attacks by Democrats and their media allies, Senator Moreno will not speak on active litigation involving his family,” Raagan McCarthy, a spokesperson for Sen. Bernie, told NOTUS in a statement.

Current Speaker of the House Mike Johnson told reporters, “The key word here is ‘allegation,’” when asked about the domestic violence claims levied against the congressman.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, also a Republican, told a local ABC affiliate news station that while the allegations are “serious and certainly troubling,” he believes “the people” of Rep. Miller’s district “are going to have to weigh the facts,” falling short of calling for the congressman to resign or drop out.

“They’re the ones who decide who they want to represent them,” DeWine added.

President Donald Trump — who has been credibly accused of sexual assault by over a dozen women, including his late ex-wife Ivana Trump, and was ordered by a judge to pay E. Jean Carroll $5.6 million after a jury found him liable for sexually assaulting her — gave Rep. Miller his “complete and total endorsement” in May, adding that the rep “will not let you down.”

Miller is just one of many sitting or would-be politicians on both sides of the political aisle to stand accused of gross misconduct.

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In July, Graham Platner, a Democrat, withdrew from Main’s senate race among a slew of allegations, including sexual assault, inappropriate messages and abuse. (Graham has maintained his innocence and denied the allegations.)

Related: Husband of Eric Swalwell Accuser Responds to Congressman’s Denial Video

The husband of one of the women who have accused Rep. Eric Swalwell of sexual assault and harassment has responded to the congressman’s video denying the allegations. “My wife’s name is Ally Sammarco. Obviously you know that, but she’s not named anonymous,” Adam Parkhomenko, a Democratic strategist and former DNC National Field Director, wrote via […]

Former congressman Eric Swalwell, also a Democrat, suspended his gubernatorial run on April 12 before resigning from Congress amid multiple allegations of sexual assault and misconduct. While Swalwell admitted to extramarital conduct, he denied the allegations before ultimately leaving office amid threats of an expulsion vote.

According to a recent Politico poll, 66 percent of MAGA voters who voted for Trump, 80, said they would back a Republican candidate even if “a former partner has accused the Republican candidate of sexual assault” rather than vote for a Democrat.

Former reality star Teresa Giudice is breaking her silence on the tragic death of her daughter Milania Giudice’s best friend, Victoria Zardoya.

“My sweet beautiful Victoria,” the former The Real Housewives of New Jersey star wrote via Instagram on Saturday, August 1. “This just doesn’t seem real. You were like a daughter to me and an incredible built in best friend and sister to Milania. I watched the two of you grow up into such beautiful young women, and seeing you both follow your dreams at the University of Tampa warmed my heart because I always knew she had you by her side.”

Teresa continued, “I wish we could go back so I could watch you guys running around the soccer field again, laughing, smiling, and just being carefree little girls. Those are the memories I’ll hold onto forever.”

Zardoya died after suffering a fatal fall on July 24 during a trip to Egmont Key, an island off the coast of Tampa Bay, Florida. She was 20. It remains unclear how the college student fell at the time of publication. On Wednesday, July 29, a spokesperson for the Manatee County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed to Us that Zardoya’s autopsy has been delayed due to her status as an organ donor.

Related: Twin Sister of Milania Giudice’s Friend Victoria Breaks Silence on Her Death

Milania Giudice’s friend Victoria Zardoya’s twin sister, Alexandra Zardoya, has broken her silence following her sibling’s sudden death at age 20. “Victoria, I can’t believe this is real life. Tears are falling down my cheeks as I type every word,” Alexandra, 20, wrote via Instagram on Friday, July 31. “My twin sister, my other half, […]

“You were so full of life — kind, ambitious, and unstoppable,” Teresa continued in her moving Saturday tribute to the late young woman. “You had the biggest heart and the brightest future ahead of you. I can’t believe I’m writing this right now. The thought of you not walking through my front door anymore doesn’t feel real. It feels like a nightmare I keep hoping I’ll wake up from.”

The reality TV star concluded, “I love you so much sweet angel. Heaven gained one of the most beautiful souls, and I know you’ll be watching over all of us. You will be loved, missed, and remembered forever.”

Teresa also shared a slew of throwback photos and videos featuring Zardoya and her daughter Milania over the years, from childhood to their time in high school and beyond.

Days earlier, Milania revealed that she was undertaking the daunting and heartbreaking task of cleaning out her late best friend’s hospital room in the wake of her untimely death.

“Hello, this is my first time,” Milania, 20, began a Friday, July 31, TikTok video, getting emotional. “They are packing up Victoria’s hospital room. She just went in, she’s saving eight people’s lives [via organ donation]. … I’m spreading awareness about Victoria.”

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Related: Teresa Giudice’s Daughter Milania Tearfully Leaves for College in Florida

Teresa Giudice’s 18-year-old daughter, Milania, is college-bound. Milania’s sister Gia, 23, documented her departure for the University of Tampa in a Thursday, August 22, TikTok video. “I’m a little bit sad right now, leaving,” Milania said to the camera before hugging Gia and thanking her for helping her pack. The sisters then shared a long […]

She added at the time, “I can’t really say much right now because this is, obviously, really new. I just can’t believe this is real, like, seriously just hug your loved ones.”

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Milania spent nearly one week at Zardoya’s bedside in the hospital in the days ahead of the college student’s tragic death.

“Milania slept 7 days in a chair until her BFF was ready to give life to 7 people,” Teresa wrote in the comments section.

“I would sleep in a chair next to her forever,” Milania responded.

The return to Middle-earth is starting to take shape, as more news is revealed about the upcoming The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum. Set for theatrical release on December 17, 2027, this first mainline live-action film in the franchise for over a decade will feature many fan-favorite original faces returning, including Lee Pace as Thranduil, Elijah Wood as Frodo, Ian McKellen as Gandalf, and Andy Serkis as Gollum. There will also be some new faces joining the franchise, including Leo Woodall as Halvard, Kate Winslet as Marigol, and Anya Taylor-Joy as Seren.

Fans might not be too pleased that Viggo Mortensen is being replaced by Jamie Dornan as Aragorn, but the other glaring omission from the team is Peter Jackson, with the aforementioned Serkis stepping in as director. However, Jackson is still heavily involved in the film as a producer and co-writer, with his original vision that transformed the novels into movie masterpieces hopefully able to evolve for a 2027 audience. But there’s no doubt that Jackson’s directing prowess will be missed by many, although those yearning for his ability to adapt a fantasy story into big-screen magic will be pleased with a recent streaming acquisition.

Starting August 1, you’ll be able to stream Jackson’s The Lovely Bones, based on Alice Sebold‘s 2002 novel of the same name, on Paramount+. Jackson didn’t just direct this adaptation; he also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, in only his second project after finishing The Lord of the Rings trilogy. The Lovely Bones features a star-studded cast, led by the likes of Mark Wahlberg (who replaced original star Ryan Gosling), Rachel Weisz, Susan Sarandon, and Stanley Tucci, with the movie also acting as many people’s introduction to future Hollywood star Saoirse Ronan.

Was ‘The Lovely Bones’ a Box Office Hit?

Jackson was no stranger to box office success in the Noughties, thanks to The Lord of the Rings trilogy and the near-$600 million haul of King Kong. Sadly, The Lovely Bones broke his streak, only returning $95 million against a reported $95 million budget. This disappointment was no doubt spurred on by the lackluster reviews the film received from critics, illustrated by a somewhat woeful 31% approval rating on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.

The Lovely Bones is streaming on Paramount+ this August. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.

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Release Date

December 11, 2009

Runtime

135 minutes

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Taylor Swift’s longtime friendship with Blake Lively reportedly reached its breaking point after the actress was allegedly left off the singer’s Super Bowl guest list. Sources claim Lively was so upset about missing the 2025 game that she wanted Swift to publicly explain her absence and give fans the impression that there was no tension between them.

The alleged demand reportedly came with a far more serious warning. If Swift refused to cooperate, years of private messages involving the singer’s relationships and personal life could allegedly be released. Lively and her attorney have forcefully denied that any such threat was made.

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Lively attended the 2024 Super Bowl with Swift, watching the game from the VIP suite reserved for Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. When the Chiefs returned to the NFL championship the following February, however, Lively was not among Swift’s guests in New Orleans. Her absence immediately fueled speculation that the two women had fallen out after maintaining a close friendship for approximately a decade.

By then, Swift had been pulled into the growing legal conflict between Lively and her “It Ends With Us” co-star and director, Justin Baldoni. Sources familiar with the alleged fallout told the Daily Mail that Lively felt humiliated after being excluded from the Super Bowl gathering.

Taylor Swift Allegedly Faced Threat Involving Private Messages

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The most explosive part of the report concerns what allegedly would happen if Swift refused to post the message. Sources claim Lively possessed “ten years’ worth” of private text messages and conversations involving Swift’s failed romances and other personal experiences. The singer was allegedly warned that those communications could become public if she did not offer the requested show of support.

The claim mirrors allegations that surfaced during Lively and Baldoni’s legal battle. Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, previously asserted in court filings that Lively’s legal team attempted to pressure Swift into publicly backing the actress.

Freedman wrote in a May 14 letter to Judge Lewis J. Liman that a “source who is highly likely to have reliable information” had described alleged “extortionate threats” made to the law firm representing Swift. According to the filing, Lively’s attorneys allegedly demanded that Swift “release a statement of support” for her.

It further alleged that if “Swift refused to do so, private text messages of a personal nature in Ms Lively’s possession would be released.”

Blake Lively’s Attorney Denies The Explosive Allegations

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Lively’s attorney, Michael Gottlieb, rejected the accusation in the strongest possible terms. “This is categorically false. We unequivocally deny all of these so-called allegations, which are cowardly sourced to supposed anonymous sources, and completely untethered from reality,” Gottlieb said.

Freedman later filed a signed affidavit under penalty of perjury offering additional information about the unnamed source and the allegations. However, the affidavit was subsequently withdrawn after the judge ruled that it was “improper” and “irrelevant to any issue before this Court.”

The ruling did not establish whether the alleged threat occurred. Instead, it determined that the material was not appropriately before the court in that matter.

A source close to Lively has also directly rejected the claim involving Swift’s private communications. “Blake has never threatened to leak Taylor’s personal or private text messages,” the source told the Daily Mail.

Alleged Super Bowl Ultimatum Was Reportedly The ‘Ultimate Blow’

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Despite the denials, insiders maintain that the alleged Super Bowl dispute was the final straw for Swift. “It was the ultimate blow to their friendship,” one source claimed. “The threat to expose Taylor’s most intimate confidences unless she posted something to explain why Blake was missing at the Super Bowl was outrageous. There was no going back from that.”

Neither Swift nor Lively has publicly confirmed that their friendship ended because of the alleged ultimatum.

Taylor Swift Was Pulled Into The ‘It Ends With Us’ Legal Battle

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The two women were frequently seen together, and Swift has served as godmother to Lively’s children with Ryan Reynolds. Their close connection made Lively’s absence from the 2025 Super Bowl particularly noticeable to fans.

Swift’s name became connected to the dispute after Baldoni accused Lively of using her influential friends during conversations surrounding “It Ends With Us.”

The singer was not a cast member or producer in the movie, but her song was featured in the movie and its trailer. Plus, her relationship with Lively placed increased attention on any role she may have played behind the scenes.

Crafting excellent television is akin to creating excellent meals. The genre of the show is the type of cuisine following a culture and tradition built from community connections. Its characters are the ingredients, ranging from simple to complex in flavor and combined to elevate and enhance. Both can tell a story; both can be divisive; both can be exceptional. As with the fusion of different cuisines, the combination of different genres in a television series can be hit-or-miss with audiences. But when a show hits that sweet spot, balancing the ingredients and honoring the cuisine to create something new and fresh, there’s nothing quite like it. And it’s certainly true that there’s nothing quite like Netflix’s new show, Delicious in Dungeon.

No show achieves its ambitious concept as effectively and creatively as Delicious in Dungeon. Also known as Dungeon Meshi (literally ‘dungeon meal’), the series is an adaptation of the hit manga by Ryōko Kui and was animated by Studio Trigger. Part fantasy adventure, part cooking show, the series is a daring combination of two types of entertainment so distinct that it feels like their flavors should clash. Fans of Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves will recognize the familiar fantasy framework, but Delicious in Dungeon elevates it with a culinary twist all its own.

And yet, not only does it fulfill all its promises of magical adventure, but Delicious in Dungeon contains a surprisingly detailed culinary element in its story that makes the show distinct from anything else on television. Containing style and substance, the series is meticulously crafted with unifying themes, endearing characters, and a truly stunning art style that is so thoroughly enjoyable that audiences are going to keep on craving another bite.

‘Delicious in Dungeon’ Keeps the Fantasy Genre Fresh

Delicious in Dungeon has the bones of a traditional fantasy adventure, chock-full of all the knights, mages, and monsters any Lord of the Rings or Dungeons & Dragons fan could ask for. But it’s where the series expands on the genre, subverting expectations and introducing fresh new ingredients to a classic story, that the series truly leaves a lasting impression. Set in a world where magic and monsters exist, dungeon exploration is a potentially lucrative profession for courageous or reckless adventurers. Though the magical underground world is dangerous and full of monsters, the promise of treasure, wealth, and even an entire kingdom is enough to beckon folks into its dark underbelly. After they are defeated by a red dragon, the human adventurer, Laios (voiced by Kentarō Kumagai), and his adventuring party delve back into the dungeon to rescue his sister, Fallin (Saori Hayami), before she’s digested by the mythical creature.

However, lacking funds and resources, the party is forced to enter the dungeon without the necessary rations to reach the deeper levels. This would be an insurmountable problem were it not for Laios’s ingenious idea to eat the monsters they slay for food. Unlike adventurers seeking fame or fortune, Laios became an explorer because of his deep love and fascination with monsters.

But Laios’ encyclopedic knowledge of monsters doesn’t exactly translate into culinary skill, which is where Senshi takes center stage. A mysterious yet unerringly friendly dwarf, Senshi (Hiroshi Naka) had been living in the dungeon for several years and developed a keen understanding of how to survive in a dangerous environment. Senshi joins the party to help rescue Fallin, becoming the resident chef who teaches Laios and his friends how to survive in the dungeon and make delicious meals from the unlikeliest ingredients.

The Characters are Brilliantly Designed and Memorable

However, two adventurers alone do not make a party, and the rest of the characters in Delicious in Dungeon are equally entertaining as the eccentric monster-eating dwarf and human. There is Marcille (Sayaka Senbongi), the brilliantly talented and studious elven mage. Chilchuck (Asuna Tomari), the half-foot picklock who expertly leads the party through the winding routes and traps of the dungeon. And Fallin, the friendly and powerful mage whose kindhearted nature motivates her party to rescue her at all costs.

Though each character is based on a fantasy archetype, they each add something new to the table, adding complexity to ideas audiences are already familiar with. Marcille feels youthful and lively, unlike the more classic interpretation of stuffy and stoic elves. Though Chilchuck looks like a spritely youth himself, he’s actually middle-aged for his species and holds plenty of secrets in his small stature. And when Chilchuck does finally share his past, it’s one of the most shocking and hilarious moments in the entire series.

Each character in Delicious in Dungeon is a masterclass in direct and effective storytelling from Ryōko Kui, with character design and interactions so meticulously crafted that there’s no wasted moment. Marcille’s hairstyle changes every episode, showing her meticulous personality, because hair is an integral component of the world’s magic. Even though Chilchuck is the smallest of the party, he still removes his extra clothes when disarming traps so that he triggers even fewer sensors. The monsters, too, are creatively designed, drawing inspiration from folklore, mythology, and even regional cryptids but with additional features unique to this series.

‘Delicious in Dungeon’s World-Building Is Detailed and Exhaustive

Image via Studio Trigger

Even with the already impressive character design and writing, the most impressive aspect of Delicious in Dungeon is arguably its comprehensive world-building. Unlike other fantasy stories, which substitute logic for mystique and intrigue, there’s a cohesive logic that permeates the show. The monsters Laios so gleefully obsesses over are still living things with complex biologies and instinctive behaviors that can be researched and understood. The monsters are integral parts of the dungeon’s ecosystem, with a legitimate food web that can be tracked from the algae at the bottom of the pond all the way up to an enormous kraken.

This attention to detail translates to the cooking as well. Senshi breaks down the preparation of every dish into simple, digestible steps that genuinely feel like an engaging cooking show. Each episode features at least one brand-new dish that is an adventurous combination of monster ingredients and classic foods, some more startling than others. A basilisk, a monster that is part rooster and part snake, can be cooked on a spit like a roast chicken. A pumpkin with a human-like face on it can be turned into a soup. At the end of the day, a man-eating plant is still a plant, and its fruit can be turned into a delicious tart.

But like a good dish, plating is everything, and Delicious in Dungeon’s animation is so crisp and beautiful that even the most insane monster meal genuinely looks appetizing. The animation is defined by its clean line work, simple yet vibrant color blocking, and that exhaustive forethought that makes every detail an irreplaceable addition. But don’t let the simple art style lull you into a false sense of security because the series can get surprisingly vicious in a snap moment— reflective of the genuine dangers and threats in the sprawling dungeon. The action can get intense, featuring some truly stunning animation in visceral and dynamic combat sequences. Studio Trigger was cooking with gas when they animated this series, and the sizzle reel of Dungeon Meshi highlights is exceptional, even compared to the biggest shōnen anime. Even with the availability of healing and revival magic, some of the deaths and injuries in the show are startlingly brutal but remain cohesive within the reality of the show.

‘Delicious in Dungeon’ Is Funny, Heartwarming, and Action-Packed

Image via Studio Trigger

For all the wildness and whimsy that the series has, Delicious in Dungeon is utterly unafraid to get serious when it needs to be. Underneath all the jokes and humor, the series explores some notably profound and complex ideas, as the external politics of different nations and the internal politics of party relationships are all integral to the overarching plot. The series tackles questions about greed, power, and the volatility of relationships. Though this all seems like it should be too much, the series blends them together in such a way that the contrast of different concepts only enhances the final product.

The key to this is the simple ethos that Senshi shares with the group early on: take care of oneself by eating right, sleeping well, and exercising, because that’s all it takes to become better than you were before. Few shows can truly boast about achieving something new and exciting in their genre, but Delicious in Dungeon deserves Michelin Star-level praise for its daring choice to combine even the boldest ingredients into one dish, and the series is only getting started.

Delicious in Dungeon is streaming now on Netflix in the U.S.

Lollapalooza’s opening days were hit by weather-related chaos as Lorde stopped her performance to get help for concertgoers who reportedly passed out in the intense Chicago heat. The crowd-safety scare unfolded during Thursday night’s kickoff, with the singer pausing her headlining set after noticing people struggling in the audience.

The disruption was followed by confusion surrounding Lil Uzi Vert’s Friday appearance. Festival organizers initially announced that the rapper would not perform because of weather issues, only to reverse course hours later with a surprise update.

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Lorde, whose full name is Ella Yelich-O’Connor, was performing before a packed crowd when multiple attendees reportedly lost consciousness because of the extreme heat, according to Rolling Stone. The 29-year-old singer paused the music and directed security toward people who appeared to need assistance. “You look hot from up here,” the outlet reported that Lorde told the crowd at one point.

The interruption allowed festival workers and security personnel to reach those affected before the performance continued. Further information about the concertgoers’ conditions was not included in the report.

Lorde later admitted that she was also feeling the effects of the temperature while performing.

Singer Admits She Felt ‘Dizzy In The Heat’

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Lorde reflected on the demanding performance in an Instagram post shared with her 11 million followers Friday. The Grammy winner uploaded several photographs showing the festival grounds following her set. She was pictured standing onstage covered in colorful paint, while a distant sign instructed attendees to “Stay safe Lolla.” “Last night felt crazy, very out of body, doubting myself a bit, period due, dizzy in the heat,” Lorde began her caption.

She also revealed that she had been battling her own physical discomfort while attempting to deliver the performance. The singer also addressed the internal pressure she experiences after taking the stage. “I am brutally hard on myself sometimes and almost never feel like I did good enough,” she told her followers.

Despite those doubts, Lorde described feeling a powerful connection with the audience during the emotionally and physically demanding show.

Lorde Felt ‘Connection And Love’ From The Crowd

Although the night included alarming moments, Lorde emphasized that her overall experience remained deeply meaningful. “I felt the crowd last night as a heaving organism of connection and love,” she wrote. “I felt for the millionth time in my life that my work has taken me to the right place and I’m right where I need to be, always growing and being taught.”

Her reflection extended beyond her own performance to the workers responsible for transforming and cleaning the festival grounds after thousands of people departed. “At midnight I went back onto the stage with Jimmy, just stood there for a while and watched tomorrow’s crew ripping off our spikes and the pit crew cleaning up bottles and felt nature at work,” Lorde said.

“Nothing ever the one thing, all part of the constellation, felt everything that holds me as I do this work, the many many people who help me get it done, you, the land we perform on, the language and the music that have moved through me since I was a child,” the singer added before closing the emotional message by adding, “The moon was full. I love you very much.”

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Lil Uzi Vert’s Performance Appeared To Be Canceled

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The weather continued disrupting Lollapalooza’s schedule on Friday, when organizers announced that Lil Uzi Vert would no longer be appearing. The 31-year-old Philadelphia rapper was initially removed from the lineup “due to weather issues.”

Only hours after indicating that Lil Uzi Vert would not appear, Lollapalooza announced that the rapper would take the stage after all. Organizers did not elaborate on what changed between the initial weather-related cancellation and the later announcement that Uzi would join Major Lazer.

Festival organizers also informed attendees that Zara Larsson’s hourlong set had been moved to a different time.

Festival Warns Attendees About Continuing Rain

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The extreme heat affecting Lorde’s Thursday performance gave way to intermittent rain as the weekend continued.

Lollapalooza advised attendees that organizers were monitoring the changing weather conditions and would provide additional information if necessary.

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