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Friday the 13th Has a Lot of Final Girls, but Only One Is the Absolute Worst

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Ghostface in Scream 4

Slashers are known for having a predictable formula so well known that the Scream franchise has spent three decades mocking them. One of the most used tropes is that of the final girl. She’s often book smart and shy, the type of young woman who notices everything around her while her friends are too busy partying and having sex. Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) in Halloween is the epitome of this. The Friday the 13th series, with 12 movies and counting, has a plethora of final girls too, with none saving the day in multiple movies. Some have been great, like Ginny (Amy Steele) in Friday the 13th Part 2. Others, not so much. The worst, by far, shows up in the movie Jason Voorhees isn’t even part of. Sorry, Pam Roberts (Melanie Kinnaman) from Friday the 13th: A New Beginning, but your final girl character is just awful.

A Copycat Killer Is the Villain of ‘Friday the 13th: A New Beginning’

In 1984’s Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter, Jason Voorhees dies. No, really. In the film’s conclusion, young Tommy Jarvis (Corey Feldman) decimates him with a machete, finally ending his reign of terror. Still, the franchise was too profitable to be put to rest, so the next year it returned with Friday the 13th: A New Beginning. Jason might be dead and buried, but a new killer emerges, wearing a familiar hockey mask, to hack up teens around the Pinehurst Halfway House.

This is the home of troubled teens, including a teenage Tommy, now played by John Shepherd, who is so disturbed that we’re led to wonder if he could be the killer. A New Beginning is a flawed sequel and is seen by many as the worst of them all, yet it tries to do something different by examining the trauma of a male survivor after he takes out a mass killer. At the same time, it’s a murder mystery. Could it be Tommy? Is it someone at the halfway house? Or is Jason, somehow, back from the dead?

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Pam Roberts Starts Off Being an Interesting Character

Running the home is Dr. Matt Letter (Richard Young) and the woman assisting him, Pam Roberts. She’s another in a long line of pretty young blondes, but Pam is different from the usual slasher fodder. She’s a kind soul who is genuinely interested in people and wants to help those who need it the most. That is shown several times, with Pam consoling a struggling patient or volunteering her time to take another, Reggie (Shavar Ross), to visit his family.

Ghostface in Scream 4


The 10 Most Iconic Horror Movie Characters Everyone Knows (Even Without Watching the Film)

A murderer’s row of murderers.

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Pam also takes an interest in helping Tommy, who often sits quietly by himself, only to fly off the handle in a fit of rage in other moments. She feels like she could be the continuation of Ginny from Friday the 13th Part 2, the camp counselor studying to be a child psychologist. Rather than hating Jason, Ginny feels sorry for the boy he used to be. Is Pam who Ginny would aim to be like?

Pam Fails as a Final Girl in the Last Act of ‘Friday the 13th: A New Beginning’

Pam (Melanie Kinnaman) in the rain in 'Friday the 13th: A New Beginning'
Pam (Melanie Kinnaman) in the rain in ‘Friday the 13th: A New Beginning’
Image via Paramount Pictures
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Ginny is regarded by many as the best final girl because of her compassion, combined with her strength. When Jason Voorhees shows up in Friday the 13th Part 2, even though she’s scared, she takes the fight to him. This is where Pam Roberts falters badly. She’s not a coward who flees the scene per se, but she adds so little. Pam will investigate, and she makes it her mission to protect young Reggie, which is of course commendable. Yet scene after scene has Pam on the defense with her screaming, falling in the mud, or having to be saved by Reggie. She’s reactionary when the final girl role requires a forward thinker. It’s quite obvious that the filmmakers didn’t know what to do with her, because the best they could come up with was to put Pam in a thin, tight, white shirt, then turn on the rain sprinklers and send her running (and bouncing) through the third act.

Pam Roberts does get a few moments, like when she grabs a chainsaw and goes after “Jason”, or in the last scene in the barn loft, when she fights back again. After the nightmare ends, we see her in shock at a hospital cradling a sleeping Reggie in her lap. She is by no means a bad person. The fault is that Pam’s inclusion in the film feels like a narrative device. Someone needs to find the victims, so make it Pam. Someone has to run away from the killer, so make it Pam. Someone has to fight him and fail, so make it Pam.

Pam Roberts exists in Friday the 13th: A New Beginning to move the story along, a story that’s not about her. Tommy Jarvis is the final boy. This is his movie. He’ll get the kill and save everyone in the end. Pam is there because the formula requires that a female character must live. With everyone else dead, it had to be her. She makes it to the end by sheer luck of a thin script and nothing else.

Friday the 13th: A New Beginning is available to rent or buy on VOD services.

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01140332_poster_w780.jpg

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Release Date

March 22, 1985

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Runtime

92 minutes

Director
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Danny Steinmann

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  • Cast Placeholder Image
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    John Shepherd

    Tommy Jarvis

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  • Cast Placeholder Image
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    Melanie Kinnaman

    Pam Roberts

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Sukihana Reveals She’s Expecting Her Fourth Child

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Congratulations! Rapper Sukihana Reveals She's Expecting Her Fourth Child (PHOTOS)

Rapper Sukihana has been outside lately, having fun while continuing to drop new music for her supporters. She’s also been making waves online following viral altercations from her latest appearance on ‘Baddies USA.’ Now, Suki has the internet talking again after sharing a surprising announcement online. 

RELATED: Making Things Work? Ray J Shares If He & Princess Love Are Still Getting A Divorce Following Drama Involving Sukihana

Sukihana Surprises Supporters With Pregnancy Announcement

On Thursday, People Magazine exclusively revealed photos of Sukihana posing in a pink floral top and light pink skirt. In the photos, she held her baby bump while announcing she’s expecting her fourth bundle of joy. In her interview with People, the 34-year-old opened up about this new chapter in her life. She also shared excitement about welcoming this new blessing.

When asked why she decided to keep her pregnancy private, Suki explained, “This baby came into my life at a time when I truly needed a reminder of purpose and love. I’ve lived a lot of my life loudly, but this moment is something I wanted to protect until I was ready to share it with the world.”

She added, “I wanted to protect myself and my baby, and I wanted to make sure my baby was fully developed and healthy before I let anybody know about what was so sacred to me.”

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Sukihana also revealed she does not know the baby’s sex yet. However, she shared she’s simply grateful to be expecting a healthy baby and plans to find out soon.

 

Social Media Reacts 

Many social media users gathered across platforms as they sent Sukihana congratulations following her pregnancy announcement. Commenters under The Shade Room also questioned who the baby’s father may be. Others couldn’t help but bring up her recent behavior on reality TV, especially during her latest appearance on Baddies USA.

Instagram user @prettygyrljackkie wrote, “CONGRATS TO SUKI ❤️”

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Instagram user @itsquooo wrote. “Congrats to her, She’s don’t play about her kids”

While Instagram user @therealchianne wrote, “I ain’t even know she had kids to begin with”

Instagram user @crown_neat_king wrote, “After spraying that bear mace she had to pull a fast one for the reunion lol”

Instagram user @therealganstag added. “Yea cuz Big Gretch and Kold Killa was bouta get you at the reunion”

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While Instagram user @raefashort wrote, “Ion like her after baddies sorry dont care prayers to the baby tho”

Instagram user @tiffanyshenise wrote, “Wonder if that’s Dr.Umar baby”

Instagram user @inkmychina69 wrote, “who the baby daddy ray j?”

While Instagram user @rihya.babyayy_ wrote, “Are yall forgetting suki is already a mom?Just say congrats and keep it pushing.”

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Sukihana Speaks Out 

While the internet continues reacting to her pregnancy news, Sukihana stepped into The Shade Room comments to respond. The rapper thanked supporters, writing, “Thank you so much for the support.” She also shared her maternity photos on social media, captioning them, “I knew your life deserved a chance.”

RELATED: Issa Kiii! Sukihana Shares Why She Thinks Bobbi Althoff’s Relationship Is Thriving (VIDEO)

 

What Do You Think Roomies?

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‘Mormon Wives’ Star Mikayla Matthews Gets Candid About Split From Husband

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Mikayla Matthews

Season 4 of the hit reality show, “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” released on Thursday and instantly news about Mikayla Matthews and Jace Terry’s separation is circulating. While it may not come as a big surprise to diehard fans of the show, many are shocked to hear the news.

During Season 3 of the show, it was revealed that Mikayla and Jace were having some intimacy issues amid her chronic health struggles and welcoming their fourth child. And now in the new season, fans are seeing that the two have decided to separate.

Mikayla Matthews And Her Husband Have Split

Mikayla Matthews

During the fourth season of the hit Hulu reality show, viewers will see Mikayla and Jace’s relationship unfolding. She shares that the long-time couple are taking time apart amid their intimacy struggles. Mikayla has shared some insight into the issues, stating that being sexually abused during her childhood is the cause.

Mikayla told PEOPLE that this new chapter in her life is “still new” to her.

“Last season, we dove into the beginning stages of it, and that was me revisiting all this trauma for the first time as well,” Mikayla said about being sexually abused in childhood. “It’s still new to me, and it’s new to him, and we’re just navigating it the best way that we can.”

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She added that she feels it’s going to take “a lot more time” and that’s all she can say about it right now.

Many Fans Feel The Couple Was On A ‘Temporary’ Break

Over on TikTok, viral content creator @Stephwithdadeets shared a video talking about Mikayla and Jace’s split and why it appears that it may have been just temporary.

“Jordan is calling this fake news,” Steph said while showing the story that recently came out from PEOPLE. She continued saying that people are confused because “it just says that Mikayla split from Jace Terry, her husband.” She then showed something that was posted on The Mormon Wives Report IG page and Jordan’s comment seemed to confuse everyone about “fake news.”

“So that leads me to believe that they are no longer separated,” she continued. “Cause the article did give the sense like when I first saw it, I thought it was like current day. But also, according to this article, the only other people from the cast that knew about their separation at that time were Mayci and Jacob. So Jordan wasn’t in the know at that time.”

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She added that “according to social media, they seem like they’re together.”

One viewer shared, “I watched the show there on a temporary split.” Another added, “Ugh I was hoping she would actually leave. He sucks so much.”

Mikayla Matthews Also Shares Her Struggles With Chronic Health Issues

The “Mormon Wives” star has also been open and honest about the struggles she’s been going through with her health.

In a recently posted carousel of photos on Instagram captioned, “Chronically over this sh-t oh and still chronically ill,” Mikayla shared pictures of her flare-ups. Many of the MomTok crew hopped into the comments to share positive and uplifting words, as well as fans.

“You’re still so hot. I love you!” Mayci Neeley wrote. Layla Taylor added, “I love you Mikay,” and Whitney Leavitt said, “Love you.”

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One comment reads, “You are chronically beautiful sending lots of love.” Another viewer wrote, “You amaze me and I constantly pray for your health and healing. Beautiful always.”

In Other ‘Mormon Wives’ News…

Taylor Frankie Paul
LISA OConnor/AFF-USA.com / MEGA

Taylor Frankie Paul’s “The Bachelorette” debut is about to air, so of course, this season of “Mormon Wives” will include some of that drama.

During Season 4, viewers see Taylor talking to a new guy, musician Ben Lambert, who she met on a TikTok live.

“I don’t know why I was just like, immediately I was like, ‘crush, crush,’” she said in a confessional on the show. While the two hung out a bit, it ultimately didn’t work out. She also shared some insight into her dating life in the confessional, explaining it’s “odd to date after Dakota” and she hasn’t “dated much.”

And as fans are well aware, Paul is the star of “The Bachelorette” this season, so we’ll all get to see just how she tackles dating multiple men on camera.

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Another hot topic from the show is Demi Engemann, with many wondering what her role will be in Season 4 after an explosive Season 3. While she does appear in early episodes of the season, she does not appear in the show’s intro, which leads many to believe she’s no longer part of the show.

Season 4 Of ‘The Secret Lives Of Mormon Wives’ Is Now Streaming On Hulu

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives
LISA OConnor/AFF-USA.com / MEGA

The new season promises more drama, more chaos, and unlikely plot twists. And the wait is over! Season 4 of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” is now streaming on Hulu.

Grab your dirty soda, pop some popcorn, and get ready for another wild season. Will MomTok survive?

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17 Chafe‑Free Athletic Skirts to Wear This Spring, From $11

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17 Chafe‑Free Athletic Skirts to Wear This Spring, From $11

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

There’s nothing worse than experiencing thigh chafing during the warm weather months. But this spring, we’re ditching discomfort and choosing athletic skirts with built‑in shorts to keep Us grooving all day long. Thankfully, retailers like Amazon, Macy’s and Nordstrom have plenty of anti-chafing skorts that are designed with moisture-wicking fabrics, stay-put shorts and other elevated details that effortlessly move with you.

To keep things comfy and chafe‑free this spring, we curated a list of 17 athletic skirts that are ready for all your on‑the‑go plans. Shop our favorite skort picks from lululemon, Quince and more below, which deliver breathability, coverage and style in one easy piece — starting at $11.

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17 Anti-Chafing Athletic Skirts That Are Built for Comfort

1. Our Favorite: Not too short, not too long, this high‑waist athletic skirt hits the perfect balance of coverage and comfort for movement‑heavy days.

2. Wear Everywhere: Whether you’re hitting the treadmill or knocking out endless errands, this breathable athletic skirt won’t leave you with that dreaded thigh rub.

3. Sporty Chic: This buttery soft athletic skort has great moisture-wicking fabric and movement flexibility. Bonus: It’s ridiculously easy to style for everyday wear.

4. Made to Move: You don’t need to be a tennis pro to appreciate the function and fashion of this lightweight pleated skirt. The high‑waist band smooths your tummy, while the compression shorts keep you chafe‑free all day.

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5. Longer Length: A knee‑length skort is great for those in‑between days when you want coverage while looking put together. This modest style has a longer inseam that prevents riding up, too.

6. Stay-Put Design: Leave it to Quince to put nifty grip dots on its bestselling tennis skort. The design lets you show off your legs without worrying about the shorts shifting or riding up.

7. Move With Confidence: This shorts under this flowy athletic skirt are longer than hem, making it easy to bend, stretch, move or lounge with stay‑put coverage.

8. Outdoor Girls: If hiking, sightseeing and exploring are on the agenda, this breathable outdoor skort is built to move with you from trail to town. It’s designed to face all the elements without riding up.

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9. Sun Protection: In addition to not chafing or shifting, this flouncy moisture‑wicking skort is designed with UPF fabric that keeps your skin extra protected from the sun.

10. Trending Design: It’s on the shorter side, but this flowy athletic skort has all the elements to keep your legs from chafing: breathable, quick‑dry fabric, comfy shorts and a flouncy silhouette.

11. Colorful Confidence: Aside from being fun and colorful, this lululemon tennis skirt has silicone grippers that prevent the dreaded ride up.

12. Feminine Fashion: Far from mundane or matronly, this tiered athletic skort features a floral print and a breezy silhouette that keeps things light and lively.

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13. Fan Favorite: This stretchy Columbia athletic skort has incredible reviews. Shoppers love its stay-in-place fit, breathability and all-day wearability.

14. Pockets Aplenty: Utility meets chic style in this cargo athletic skort that has plenty of pockets and zip compartments. Its no‑ride‑up design makes it an easy choice for anything from errands to outdoor adventures.

15. Swishy Movement: Bouncy and beautiful, this high‑waisted mesh skort brings a flirty twist to every workout or weekend plan. Tip: Add to cart now because it’s selling fast.

16. Securely Fit: Give your tennis skirt a stylish upgrade with this wrap-style skort. The tie-waist gives you plenty of airflow without losing coverage.

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17. Top Brand: If you’re unsure where to start, you can’t go wrong with the classic Nike Dri-Fit skirt. The skort’s anti‑chafing design keeps you cool, comfortable and rash-free.

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New Dewey actor watches Jane Kaczmarek shave Bryan Cranston's crotch in latest “Malcolm in the Middle” revival trailer

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Caleb Ellsworth-Clark portrays the family’s little brother, played by Erik Per Sullivan on the original series.

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Hank Azaria revives beloved character Agador to celebrate “The Birdcage”'s 30th anniversary

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The actor also paid tribute to his late costars Robin Williams and Gene Hackman and director Mike Nichols.

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Inside 90 Day Fiance’s Leida and Eric’s Money Troubles

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90 Day Fiancé stars Leida Margaretha and Eric Rosenbrook are allegedly facing mounting financial problems amid ongoing legal trouble.

Us Weekly obtained court documents on Wednesday, March 11, showing that the couple filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy on December 26, 2025. (Chapter 13 bankruptcy, also known as a “wage earner’s plan,” allows the filer to pay all or a portion of their debts over three to five years through a court-approved financial plan. This process grants debtors some legal protection against home foreclosure and other penalties while also stopping creditors from contacting them.)

Margaretha and Rosenbrook list between $100,000 and $500,000 in assets and liabilities while stating they owe $351,680 in debts. In total, the couple say that they own $346,796.80 in properties, with a combined monthly income of $7,210.01 and $5261 in monthly expenses. (Margaretha and Rosenbrook list $850 for food and $125 for tobacco among their monthly expenses.)

Their personal possessions include $3,150 in household goods, $1,080 in electronics, $500 in clothing, $1,500 in jewelry and $3,125 worth of guns and weapons accessories, such as four pistols, one shotgun, three rifles, ammunition and a gun cabinet.

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Feature 0 Day Fiance Star Leida Margaretha Back With Ex Eric Rosenbrook Months After Newborn Death


Related: 90 Day Fiance’s Leida Lists Eric as Her ‘Spouse’ After Dropping Separation

90 Day Fiancé’s Leida Margaretha listed Eric Rosenbrook as her “husband” in court documents months after dropping her effort to legally separate, Us Weekly can exclusively report. On September 29, Margaretha, 36, filed court docs in her new criminal case over alleged identity theft, where she said her household consists of her and Rosenbrook, 47, […]

Per their court filing, Margaretha and Rosenbrook own $85,594 in cars, including a 2011 Chevy Suburban worth $8,200, a 2018 Audi A6 worth $18,500 and a Corvette Stingray worth $58,894.00. As of their bankruptcy filing date, Rosenbrook and Margaretha reported they had $1,547.80 in their checking account.

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Earlier this year, the couple agreed to pay the court trustee $1,949 monthly for 60 months — totaling $116,940 — or risk the payment plan being dismissed. Documents filed on February 13 indicated that Rosenbrook and Margaretha had not made all the scheduled payments that were due up to that point.

Their lawyer indicated that the delinquency in payments was due to Eric’s employment being terminated shortly after the case was filed, though he is expected to be back at work soon after receiving a conditional offer. Rosenbrook had previously reported in December 2025 court filings that he was working as an electrician for two-and-a-half months while Margaretha worked at home for a call center (Margaretha worked in retail for Walgreens and for a towing company in 2025, per court documents.)

The bankruptcy case is ongoing.

Inside 90 Day Fiances Leida Margaretha and Eric Rosenbrook money problems 1

Leida Margaretha and Eric Rosenbrook on “90 Day Fiancé”
Courtesy of TLC/YouTube

Margaretha is currently facing 24 felony charges in Wisconsin for various alleged crimes, including wire fraud, forgery and theft. Margaretha appeared in court on Wednesday, where she was banned from contacting or visiting a business that she’s accused of defrauding. (The reality star is next scheduled to appear in court on June 17.)

“The most recent criminal charges levied against Ms. Margaretha in Juneau County are not actually new allegations of new criminal conduct but rather are re-filed charges stemming from old conduct alleged to have occurred in 2023 and 2024,” Margaretha’s attorney, Taylor Hart, said in a statement to Us Weekly. “Ms. Margaretha previously contested these allegations in court resulting in a complete dismissal of all charges against her. She intends to do so again.”

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In addition to their financial difficulties, Rosenbrook and Margaretha are embroiled in a Wisconsin investigation over the death of their daughter, Alisa, in July 2025.

Earlier this week, Starcasm cited the Adams County Health and Human Services Department’s initial assessment, which found the death of Rosenbrook and Margaretha’s baby to be “non-accidental.” This initial assessment determined that there was “a preponderance of the evidence to substantiate maltreatment of physical abuse to the infant by the mother.”

No criminal charges have been filed in connection with Alisa’s death as the investigation is ongoing, per the Adams County Health and Human Services Department.

Rosenbrook subsequently confirmed to TMZ that he and Margaretha have hired their own private medical examiner to dispute the autopsy results. He claimed that their medical examiner suspects that the original autopsy was performed improperly.

Margaretha’s attorney, Hart, told Us on Tuesday, March 11, “Leida agrees with Eric’s sentiments and disagrees with the ME’s finding that the death was ‘non-accidental.’ She continues to adamantly deny all allegations of wrongdoing and would have never harmed her child.”

90 Day Fiancé chronicled Rosenbrook’s story of meeting Margaretha on an international dating website and her subsequent move to Wisconsin during season six. They got married in July 2018.

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10 Perfect Double Features To Watch With ‘One Battle After Another’

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Jeffrey "the Dude" Lebowski (Jeff Bridges) stands in a doorway wearing a dressing gown and holding a drink.

One of the most celebrated movies of 2025, Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another is a multi-award-winning film inspired by Thomas Pynchon’s 1990 novel Vineland. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio del Toro, Teyana Taylor, and more in Oscar-nominated roles, the film is a darkly comedic thriller following a washed-up former revolutionary (DiCaprio) on a chaotic quest to save his daughter from the clutches of a corrupt military officer (Penn). It’s easily one of the best movies of recent years: entertaining, thematically complex, and politically charged.

One Battle After Another was quite popular with both critics and audiences, and has been having a spectacular awards season, winning three Critics’ Choice Awards, four Golden Globes, and six BAFTAs. As we wait for the verdicts on the movie’s 13 Academy Award nominations, it seems like the perfect time to revisit this recent masterpiece, and if you’d like to turn your movie night into a double-header, we’ve got some suggestions. Read on to discover our choices for the 10 most perfect double features to watch with One Battle After Another.

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1

‘The Big Lebowski’ (1998)

Jeffrey "the Dude" Lebowski (Jeff Bridges) stands in a doorway wearing a dressing gown and holding a drink.
Jeffrey “the Dude” Lebowski (Jeff Bridges) stands in a doorway wearing a dressing gown and holding a drink.
Image via Gramercy Pictures

Written, directed, and produced by Joel and Ethan Coen, The Big Lebowski is a cult classic crime comedy starring Jeff Bridges as Jeffrey “The Dude” Lebowski. A bowler, stoner, and all-around layabout, the Dude’s easygoing life is unexpectedly disturbed when he is mistaken for a millionaire and finds himself dragged into a surreal conspiracy involving a kidnapped trophy wife, a postmodern artist, and a group of European nihilists. Besides Bridges, the film’s ensemble cast also includes John Goodman, Sam Elliott, Julianne Moore, Steve Buscemi, John Turturro, and Philip Seymour Hoffman.

The Big Lebowski and One Battle After Another don’t have any direct parallels in their plots or themes, but their protagonists, both pot-smoking, bathrobe-wearing oddballs, are quite alike. Bridges’s iconic character is a clear inspiration behind Leonardo DiCaprio’s performance as One Battle’s Bob, and greater themes aside, both movies deliver equally entertaining adventures. With its evergreen humor, quotable dialogue, quirky characters, and truly unpredictable narrative, The Big Lebowski would be a great watch any day, and a perfect watch alongside One Battle After Another.

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2

‘Inherent Vice’ (2014)

Joaquin Phoenix as Doc Portello giving a peace sign in Inherent Vice
Joaquin Phoenix as Doc Portello giving a peace sign in Inherent Vice
Image via Warner Bros.

Directed, written, and co-produced by Paul Thomas Anderson, Inherent Vice is a neo-noir black comedy movie adapted from Thomas Pynchon’s 2009 novel, the first Pynchon book to get a film adaptation. Set in 1970s Los Angeles, the movie stars Joaquin Phoenix as private eye Larry “Doc” Sportello, who investigates three seemingly separate cases all linked to an enigmatic ex-girlfriend (Katherine Waterston) and her rich new boyfriend (Eric Roberts). The film’s ensemble cast also features Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson, Reese Witherspoon, Benicio del Toro, Jena Malone, Maya Rudolph, Martin Short, and Joanna Newsom.

Inherent Vice’s most obvious connection to One Battle After Another is in their shared director and the fact that they’re both based on Pynchon novels. Like the later film, Inherent Vice is also darkly funny and wildly entertaining, though its story doesn’t have the revolutionary undertones of Anderson’s latest masterpiece. The movie is a great watch for fans of stoner noir crime films, and it has earned praise from critics and audiences for its performances, production values, and writing, though it was not a success at the box office.

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3

‘The Company You Keep’ (2012)

a woman puts her hand on Jim Grant's (Robert Redford) face lovingly in 'The Company You Keep'
Jim Grant (Robert Redford) in ‘The Company You Keep’
Image via Sony Pictures Classics

Directed by and starring Robert Redford, The Company You Keep is a political thriller adapted from Neil Gordon’s 2003 novel. Redford plays Jim Grant, a recent widower and single father who was once an anti-war militant for the Weather Underground. Wanted for bank robbery and murder for over 30 years, Grant’s second life is upended when an aggressive young reporter, Ben Shepard (Shia LaBeouf), exposes his true identity, forcing the former revolutionary to go on the run. Julie Christie, Susan Sarandon, Jackie Evancho, Brendan Gleeson, Brit Marling, Anna Kendrick, Terrence Howard, Nick Nolte, Sam Elliott, Stanley Tucci, and more star in supporting roles.

The Company You Keep has many thematic and plot similarities with One Battle After Another, but where the latter film is defined by its chaotic, madcap energy, Robert Redford’s 2012 movie is a more traditional political film. The Company You Keep had very mixed critical and commercial results in the U.S. but performed significantly better in international markets. The movie premiered at the 2012 Venice Film Festival, where it received two awards, and though it’s still not as talked-about as it ought to be, the film is a solid political thriller with a deep, introspective exploration of revolutionary ideals and the consequences of a violent past.

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4

‘The Master’ (2012)

Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman smoke cigarettes together in Paul Thomas Anderson's 'The Master'
Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman smoke cigarettes together in Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘The Master’
Image via The Weinstein Company

Just like One Battle After Another and Inherent Vice, The Master also has roots in the works of Thomas Pynchon, specifically his 1963 novel V., but it’s not a direct adaptation of the book. The film, written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, is a period psychological drama that follows a World War II Navy veteran struggling to adjust to civilian life who becomes involved with a charismatic cult leader. Joaquin Phoenix stars as the veteran, Freddie Quell, and Philip Seymour Hoffman as the cult leader, Lancaster Dodd. The movie also stars Amy Adams, Laura Dern, Ambyr Childers, Rami Malek, Jesse Plemons, and more in key roles.

The Master had its world premiere at the 2012 Venice Film Festival, where it earned universal acclaim and won three awards: the FIPRESCI Award for Best Film, the Silver Lion for Best Direction, and the Volpi Cup for Best Actor (shared by Phoenix and Hoffman). Though it’s arguably not as entertaining as One Battle After Another, the film is a powerful psychological character study powered by amazing performances, writing, and direction, and it’s widely regarded as one of Anderson’s best movies. Featuring a career-best performance by Philip Seymour Hoffman, The Master is an impressive and thematically deep movie that synthesizes multiple inspirations and lends itself to just as many interpretations.

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5

‘The Battle of Algiers’ (1966)

A soldier walking in front of several other soldiers while bystanders look in The Battle of Algiers
A soldier walking in front of several other soldiers while bystanders look in The Battle of Algiers
Image via Allied Artists

What could be a better movie to watch alongside One Battle After Another than the one that’s actually referenced in the film? An Italian-Algerian war film, The Battle of Algiers was co-written and directed by Gillo Pontecorvo, and explores events that take place during the Algerian War of Independence. Presented in a documentary-style black-and-white narrative, the film chronicles the organization of the Algerian guerrilla movement and the cruel tactics used by the French to counter them, using a cast of primarily non-professional actors who lived through the real conflict.

First released in 1966, The Battle of Algiers was an internationally acclaimed film that earned numerous accolades, winning the Venice Film Festival’s Golden Lion prize and receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Easily one of the most sociopolitically significant films of all time, the movie was an inspiration to anti-Vietnam War activists in the ’60s and ’70s, and it continues to receive critical and scholarly acclaim today. Among its many achievements, The Battle of Algiers received its highest honor in 2008, when it was included on the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage’s list of 100 Italian films to be preserved as a movie that “changed the collective memory of the country between 1942 and 1978″.

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6

‘Kiss of the Spider Woman’ (2025)

Jennifer Lopez in Kiss-of-the-Spider-Woman
Jennifer Lopez in Kiss-of-the-Spider-Woman
Image via Lionsgate and Roadside Attractions

A relatively lesser-known 2025 movie, Kiss of the Spider Woman is also a film with themes of political rebellion, but a vastly different story. Written and directed by Bill Condon, the surreal musical drama is an adaptation of the 1992 stage musical, in turn an adaptation of Manuel Puig’s 1976 novel. Set in Argentina in the 1980s, the film stars Diego Luna as political prisoner Valentin Arregui Paz and Tonatiuh as his new cellmate, Luis Molina, a talkative window dresser who identifies as a woman. Though initially annoyed by the arrangement, Valentin eventually lets Molina tell him the plot of a Hollywood musical starring Ingrid Luna (Jennifer Lopez).

With its committed performances, layered story, and wonderful music, Kiss of the Spider Woman was highly acclaimed after its world premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, but it failed to make much of a mark at the box office. Despite its lack of popular appreciation, this surreal musical is one of the most underrated and original cinematic visions of the year, with a story that combines themes of rebellion, authoritarian oppression, and escapism through fantasy. Though the movie may not have earned as many accolades as One Battle After Another, The Kiss of the Spider Woman did win the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Film – Wide Release.

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7

‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline’ (2022)

Ariela Barer as Xochitl standing next to a pipeline and looking ahead in How to Blow Up a Pipeline
Ariela Barer as Xochitl in How to Blow Up a Pipeline
Image via Neon

Directed and co-written by Daniel Goldhaber, How to Blow Up a Pipeline is an action thriller inspired by the non-fiction book by Andreas Malm. The movie follows a group of activists in West Texas who decide to blow up an oil pipeline, using their story to examine the ethics of sabotage and property damage as tactics in the fight against the climate crisis. Ariela Barer (who also co-wrote the screenplay) leads the cast, with Kristine Froseth, Lukas Gage, Forrest Goodluck, Sasha Lane, Jayme Lawson, Marcus Scribner, Jake Weary, and Irene Bedard in significant roles.

As controversial as the book that inspired it, How to Blow Up a Pipeline premiered at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival to favorable reviews, and its later theatrical release set off alarm bells for numerous federal and state law enforcement authorities. While the movie has been criticized by some (the authorities and energy companies in particular) for its apparent promotion of terrorist activities, the film is a far more nuanced exploration than those criticisms give credit for, and it’s a genuinely entertaining thriller at the same time.

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8

‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ (2021)

Fred Hampton surrounded by a crowd while looking intently at something off-camera in Judas and the Black Messiah
Daniel Kaluuya in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’
Image via Warner Bros.

Directed, co-written, and produced by Shaka King, Judas and the Black Messiah is a biographical crime drama that revolves around Fred Hampton, chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party. Set in late 1960s Chicago, the movie stars Daniel Kaluuya as Hampton and LaKeith Stanfield as William O’Neal, the FBI informant who betrayed him, exploring the social and personal events that lead up to the incident. The film also stars Jesse Plemons, Dominique Fishback, Ashton Sanders, Darrell Britt-Gibson, Lil Rel Howery, Algee Smith, Dominique Thorne, and Martin Sheen in supporting roles.

Judas and the Black Messiah premiered at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival, and though it wasn’t a box office success (having been released during the COVID-19 pandemic), the movie earned great acclaim from critics and audiences. Widely praised for its direction, cinematography, writing, and performances, the film is a gripping drama that successfully captures the revolutionary spirit and ideals of its time and its subject. The movie went on to receive numerous accolades as well, including an Oscar, a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, and more for Kaluuya’s central performance.

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9

‘Running on Empty’ (1988)

River Phoenix as Danny Pope in Running on Empty
River Phoenix as Danny Pope in Running on Empty
Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Directed by Sidney Lumet and written by Naomi Foner, Running on Empty is a 1988 drama that, like One Battle After Another, examines parent-child relationships within the context of a fugitive revolutionary family. Judd Hirsch and Christine Lahti star as former anti-war protesters who have been on the run ever since someone was accidentally hurt in one of their bombings, but they’re forced to question the cost of their actions on the lives of their children when their son (River Phoenix) shows great musical talent and a desire to chase his own dreams. Martha Plimpton, Ed Crowley, Steven Hill, Jonas Abry, and more star in other significant roles.

Anchored by Phoenix’s stellar performance and chemistry with Plimpton, Running on Empty was a popular and acclaimed film of the late ’80s, hailed as one of the best movies of the decade. An emotional, socially conscious, and psychologically complex coming-of-age story, the film earned several honors, including two Academy Award nominations and one Golden Globe win out of five nominations. Though it isn’t as widely discussed anymore, Running on Empty is a moving landmark of its time that deserves greater attention, and a great companion piece to the similarly themed One Battle After Another.

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‘Dr. Strangelove’ (1964)

Dr-Strangelove with eyes wide open looking intently Image via Columbia Pictures

Dr. Strangelove (or, to use the full title, Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb) is a legendary political satire film directed, produced, and co-written by Stanley Kubrick. The movie’s story kicks off when a paranoid brigadier general of the United States Air Force launches a pre-emptive nuclear attack on the Soviet Union, forcing the President of the United States, his titular nuclear war expert, and a British Royal Air Force exchange officer to frantically attempt to recall the bombers before they start a nuclear war. Peter Sellers portrays all three central characters, with George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden, Keenan Wynn, Slim Pickens, and Tracy Reed in supporting roles.

Loosely adapted from Peter George’s 1958 novel Red Alert, Dr. Strangelove is easily one of the most influential films ever made and a landmark of political satire. Filled with the same kind of unhinged authority figures and black comedy as One Battle After Another, the movie is a sharp critique of state incompetence, the dangers of unchecked power, and the sheer absurdity of the whole Cold War situation. As funny as it is thought-provoking, Dr. Strangelove may just be the perfect double feature to watch with Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest masterpiece.

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The Pitt’s Supriya Ganesh Addresses Samira’s Health Scare

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The Pitt‘s Supriya Ganesh is breaking down her character Samira’s shocking onscreen health scare.

During the Thursday, March 12, episode of the HBO Max series, Samira’s stress about issues outside of work caused her to have what she thought was a heart attack. Ultimately, Samira and her coworkers realized she suffered an anxiety attack.

“It was something that I didn’t know was going to happen,” Ganesh, 28, exclusively told Us Weekly. “I found out in episode 9 that it was something that was going to happen. It was scary because I’ve had experiences with it as well.”

Ganesh was “excited” to explore a topic she was familiar with, adding, “To almost have imposter syndrome about my anxiety and going through, ‘Do I even experience this thing?’ It was weird. I kind of dug in and was excited to have this character feel this way — in such a big way.”

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The Pitt swept the 2026 awards season after its gripping story lines and dynamic cast performances, leaving fans eager to see more. The medical drama, created by R. Scott Gemmill and executive produced by John Wells and Noah Wyle, premiered on HBO Max in January 2025. The series chronicles the fictional Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center’s […]

She continued: “Samira is very empathetic and she’s really professional about her empathy. I think she tries to keep things very by the book — going above and beyond. But to have her have this almost explosive moment was really freeing in this really cool way.”

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Ganesh noted that filming such a visceral moment can feel “really real” at times.

The Pitt
Warrick Page/MAX

“I don’t remember what I did [after]. I think I went home and slept. It’s actually quite exhausting,” she admitted. “I did a lot of that in the span of a day. It’s sometimes a weird thing where you’re bringing in an energy because you’re making your body do certain [things]. I was breathing a lot — really fast — and that’s not good for your body. It was definitely a challenge in a lot of ways, but it was good.”

Elsewhere in the episode, Samira had a tense moment with Robby (Noah Wyle) when he told her to go home following her panic attack. They ultimately talked it out, but the scene touched on a consistent pattern of how Robby treats the resident.

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“Robbie is a character that’s very hot and cold with Samira a lot. There’s a push and pull quite often with them,” Ganesh weighed in. “So I don’t think she’s surprised, but I don’t think she’s realized how much of it is projection — and how much of it is an internal thing — until later in the season.”

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She added: “He says something that makes her go, ‘That’s such an insane thing to say.’ I think that’s the moment where it clicks for her that he’s just been taking something else that has nothing to do with her out on her. It’s definitely something she’s not surprised by, but I think she’s surprised by how it suddenly makes sense to her by the end of the day.”

New episodes of The Pitt premiere on HBO Max Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET.

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Michael Jackson’s Family Clashing Ahead Of Biopic Premiere

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Michael Jackson speaking

Michael Jackson‘s family is at odds again, and this time, it’s even more heated.

The late King of Pop’s siblings are not seeing eye to eye on the biopic “Michael,” and the possible reason for their feud is over the top. The biopic is set to premiere on screens on Friday, April 24, 2026; this release has been postponed three times since its initial announcement.

Michael Jackson’s whole family has chipped in one way or another to make this project a success. His nephew, Jaafar, has also received exceptional praise for his portrayal of the iconic singer after the trailer made headlines.

Michael Jackson’s Family Reportedly Riddled With Envy

Michael Jackson speaking
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

It’s Janet Jackson against her brother Jermaine and the other members of the Jackson clan. The family is reportedly at odds over the biopic “Michael,” and this time, the reason for the heated battle is jaw-dropping. Sources close to the family told TMZ that the seed of envy is the source of the discord among the family members.

They shared that the Jackson siblings lashed out at each other during a phone call as the family was getting together in Los Angeles to screen the movie last week before its release. The biopic is scheduled to be in theaters before the end of next month. According to the sources, Janet and Jermaine had totally opposite views on the film.

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While Janet was very critical of the movie, her brother loudly applauded the work done on the project. Jermaine’s son, Jaafar, stars as his late uncle, Michael, in the movie; however, their issues extend beyond their views on the film. The source claims that “Janet’s always been insanely jealous of Michael, and her career is in the toilet.”

Janet Jackson Is The Only One With An Opposing View On The Movie

Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson arrive in court
©2004 RAMEY PHOTO / MEGA

While every other member of the Jackson tribe cheered gleefully for the film, Janet was the only one reportedly with sour feelings after the family’s preview. Even Janet’s boyfriend reportedly cheered and said, “Now that’s a movie.”

Other members of the family, including the matriarch Katherine Jackson, loved the show, leaving out the second most successful Jackson on the other side of the fence with her critics. The sensational singer also did not have a hand in the production of the biopic.

As the movie was produced by the Michael Jackson Estate, Janet was offered an opportunity to be featured in the show and even participate in the production, but she declined. Her decision leaves her totally left out of the script despite her real-life close relationship with her late brother.

‘Michael’ Will Finally Hit Screens Next Month

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The film has fans filled with anticipation, especially after the trailer made headlines. The production and release schedule of the project has faced several hurdles, which led to the shifting of the release date three times. The biopic’s premiere was initially rescheduled from April 2025 to October 2025, and then to April 24, 2026. As reported by The Blast, the dreams of fans to finally see the movie on IMAX screens will come true next month.

A plethora of reasons caused the delays, the first being the length of the movie. Producers wanted “Michael” to be as detailed as possible, covering many aspects of the legend’s life and career. For this reason, it had to be split into two movies. There was a first cut in excess of 3½ hours, which also featured the second reason for postponement.

There was also the issue of referencing Jordan Chandler, who had accused Michael of molestation at 13, an allegation the late singer did not admit to, but settled the case for $20 million. After production was complete, it came to light that Chandler had an agreement that stopped him from being featured in the film, and producers were forced to edit those parts out.

Is Janet Actually Envious Of Her Late Brother?

Janet Jackson at the 2019 Glastonbury Music Festival
MEGA

Janet and Michael notably shared a strong sibling bond, and like her older brother, she rose to fame for her undeniable talents, breaking gender and racial barriers in the music industry. While the recent claims of envy being the fuel behind her recent conflict with her family, her past actions prove otherwise.

Last year, Janet made headlines because she was faced with offers to shoot her own biopic and tell the story of her life and career, but she reportedly turned down all the offers. Her stance is that she wants her late brother’s biopic to enjoy the spotlight before her. The Blast reported that her decision stemmed from her desire to allow her family to focus solely on Michael and relive their favorite memories.

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“Janet is holding off on any career retrospective project of her own for the time being out of respect for the rest of her family,” an insider explained. They added that the 59-year-old did not want to take away the shine from her brother or loved ones, “including her niece and nephews, who control Michael Jackson’s estate.”

Michael Jackson’s Nephew Might Have His Industry Big Break With The Biopic

Jaafar, who plays the late singer in the movie, has received thunderous praise from online viewers and industry figures based on the glimpse they’ve seen of him in the trailer. The young star’s role in the film marks his professional acting debut, and fans are chanting that this will be the first of many for Jaafar.

As shared by The Blast, the two-minute trailer uploaded to YouTube last month quickly reached millions of views, and the comments were flooded with compliments for the late singer’s nephew. Many online users also pointed out how much Jaafar embodied the role and personality of his uncle. “The way he moves… that is genetic memory,” the user wrote.

“You can’t teach that level of precision. We are witnessing a resurrection,” a user commented. Even members of the production crew have noted the uncanny resemblance between Michael and his nephew. Director Antoine Fuqua stated that the two men sing and even dance alike.

Will peace finally reign among Michael Jackson’s family members?

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Air Force Soldier Claps Back After TikTok Spreads Lies

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U.S. Air Force Soldier Dottie La Claps Back After TikTok Spreads Lies

Black Air Force soldier Dottie La is speaking out after reportedly going viral amid misinformation about her time in the service. A TikTok account called “PPBaby Podcast” reportedly spread false, disparaging information about Dottie La, and now she’s reaching out to spread some truth.

Between the false information, the subsequent racist remarks toward Dottie La, and the online attacks — why hasn’t TikTok taken the content down?

Now, The Shade Room’s Justin Carter is shedding some light on ‘TSR Investigates.’

More On The TikTok Spreading Lies About The U.S. Air Force Soldier Dottie La

According to Carter, a TikTok with the on-screen caption, “girl Took the Bonus to Enlist, Now She’s Afraid To Go To War,” portrays Dottie La as someone who was “crying” about her time in the military and “wanting to quit” after receiving an $8,000 sign-on bonus and signing an 8-year contract. However, per Carter, the contract doesn’t exist, and neither does the sign-on bonus.

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“I never got a bonus joining the military – I never got a bonus,” La told Carter. “… I joined about four years ago, and in the video, they’re saying I joined a month ago. And they said I joined for the money, which is not the case at all.”

La Claps Back

Per Dottie La, she’s not sure why she’s being targeted. Additionally, she says that she’s reported “PPBaby Podcast” and other accounts spreading false, defamatory information about her. However, up to now, TikTok has not complied with removing the accounts.

Scroll above to watch as Carter gets into the knitty-gritty with La. Specifically, inquiring about the clips of her flaunting large stacks of cash in the viral videos. Additionally, Carter shares what happened when TSR reached out to TikTok on Dottie La’s behalf.

RELATED: NEW: 900 Chemicals Found In Hair Extensions From Top Brands ⚠️ | TSR Investigates

What Do You Think Roomies?

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