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HBO’s Thriller Series That Inspired ‘Lanterns’ Is a 10/10 Crime Masterpiece

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Kyle Chandler in Lanterns

Lanterns has been the most exciting superhero television show in quite some time because it doesn’t adhere to genre conventions. Instead of offering just another origin story, Lanterns explores the relationship between two members of the Green Lantern Corps across three timelines that intersect to form a larger mystery. It’s the shake-up that the DCU needed, and it’s no surprise that True Detective has been cited as a primary influence on Lanterns. When True Detective debuted on HBO in 2014, it elevated what “prestige television” could be. Not only was it a weekly show that starred A-list actors, but also a creative, impeccably crafted work of storytelling that featured filmmaking better than the majority of what was released in theaters that year. Although not every subsequent season has been quite as good, Season 1 of True Detective is one of the most accomplished projects that HBO has ever released.

Creator Nic Pizzolatto began developing the story of True Detective as a novel, which makes sense considering the show is filled with dramatic depth and relies on subjective memory as a core tenet of following the mystery. The series explores the dynamic between two very different Louisiana homicide detectives — Rustin “Rust” Cohle (Matthew McConaughey) is a spiritual, nihilistic isolationist, whereas Martin Hart (Woody Harrelson) is a family man who watches his seemingly idealistic life shatter as a result of his indulgences. Although these two men are tied together by a group of killings that they suspect are linked to a serial murderer, True Detective expands into a tapestry of conflicts that show the long-suffering consequences of undelivered justice.

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HBO’s ‘True Detective’ Was a Cinematic Television Series

The procedural crime thriller is one of the most classic genres on television, but True Detective didn’t take the traditional route to a mystery because it opens by showing that Rust and Marty were unsuccessful in 1995, and that it has haunted them for 17 years. The mystery that emerges is twofold; there is a question of why these two men haven’t spoken to each other in a decade, despite being former partners, and why the case still haunts them, despite the mention that it was “solved” back in 1995. A typical crime show would show the detectives as being an instrument of justice that serves the greater good, whereas the stakes in True Detective are far more personal. Both Rust and Marty feel that catching this killer has become their destiny, and they have lost so much along the way that they feel obligated to finish what they started. The fact that they would be able to speak to one another again is also a sign of dramatic significance, as it suggests the villain is so malevolent that these two rivals would be willing to set aside their personal animosities.

True Detective doesn’t feel like a television show because it has the scale and ingenuity of a film, and it became one of the first examples of an “auteur series.” Shows typically employ multiple directors because of the demanding shooting schedule, but all of Season 1 was helmed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, resulting in a consistency of tone that made it feel like a complete statement. The episode “Who Goes There?” is perhaps the most iconic installment of the series because of a thrilling raid sequence in which Marty and Rust break into a stash house, which was completed in just one take; it isn’t just a gimmick, but an effective tool to show just how quick-witted and strategic Rust and Marty have to be when they are on the verge of a breakthrough.

‘True Detective’ Has a Perfect First Season

True Detective was one of the rare “watercooler shows” that became a true phenomenon due to the speculation and theories that came with the revelation of new clues. While it’s a satisfying show on a purely plot-based level, Season 1 holds up upon subsequent viewings because of the allusions to the supernatural and the influence of philosophical thinkers. Although television had already had its fair share of anti-heroes by this point in time, True Detective was subversive because it showed how flawed, yet well-intentioned men evolve into more self-destructive characters who begin acting out of spite. McConaughey and Harrelson have both been in many great films, but True Detective represents the greatest acting within either of their respective careers.

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True Detective is arguably the most influential show of the 2010s because it created a model of thought-provoking, out-of-the-box storytelling that many wanted to replicate. It was a model that the show itself couldn’t top; Season 2 has some interesting ideas, Season 3 has a terrific lead performance, and Season 4 starts strong, but none of them have had the same cultural footprint as Season 1. That being said, Lanterns feels like the true spiritual successor to True Detective, because it does for superheroes what Pizzolatto did for homicide detectives. It’s not clear when True Detective will return for a fifth season, but Lanterns is a satisfying replacement.

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Billy Ray Recalls Dolly Parton’s Savage Response To Affair Rumors

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CMA Awards 2025

Billy Ray Cyrus is remembering Dolly Parton with an emotional tribute that perfectly captures the country icon’s humor, warmth and ability to handle tabloid attention. Following Parton’s death at age 80, Cyrus shared a collection of photographs documenting their decades-long friendship, including moments with his daughter and Parton’s goddaughter, Miley Cyrus. The “Achy Breaky Heart” singer also revealed that Parton had recently sent him a personal message expressing how deeply she loved him.

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Cyrus began his Instagram tribute by reflecting on how difficult it was to choose just one memory from their friendship. “I have so many moments and memories with Dolly, it’s hard to know where to start. Like every little boy, I grew up loving Dolly Parton. She was a part of our lives, on our TV’s, right in our living rooms,” Cyrus wrote alongside photographs of the pair throughout the years.

The carousel opened with a photo of Billy Ray, Parton and Miley Cyrus smiling together at a MusiCares event. Another black-and-white image captured a younger Billy Ray posing with Parton inside a recording studio, while a more recent photograph showed the longtime friends seated beside each other at an event. Cyrus also included a nostalgic image from their early musical collaboration, showing Parton performing alongside him in the “Romeo” music video.

Dolly Parton Had A Hilarious Reaction To Affair Rumors

Cyrus recalled one particularly unforgettable interaction from 1992, when tabloid stories falsely linked him romantically to Parton. Rather than allowing the rumors to affect their friendship, Parton responded with the wit that became one of her trademarks.

“In 1992, I’ll never forget walking into her dressing room to apologize for all the tabloid stories which claimed I was having an affair with her. In true Dolly fashion, she just looked at me, winked, and said, “Honey, this trash sells records!”” Cyrus shared.

The moment reportedly unfolded during the same period that Cyrus was experiencing his rapid rise to fame following the release of “Achy Breaky Heart.”

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The Country Singers Collaborated On ‘Romeo’

Dolly Parton
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Parton and Cyrus turned their friendship into a musical collaboration the following year. Cyrus appeared on “Romeo,” a song from Parton’s 1993 album “Slow Dancing with the Moon.” The recording also featured Mary Chapin Carpenter, Pam Tillis, Kathy Mattea and Tanya Tucker.

According to Parton’s official website, the album reached No. 4 on the Top Country Albums chart and No. 16 on the Billboard 200. “Romeo” also earned a Grammy nomination for Best Country Vocal Collaboration.

Their Friendship Extended To Miley Cyrus

Parton’s bond with Billy Ray eventually grew to include his daughter Miley, who affectionately called the singer “Aunt Dolly.” Billy Ray named Parton Miley’s honorary godmother, creating a relationship that became one of the most recognizable mentorships in entertainment.

Parton later appeared on Miley’s Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana” as Aunt Dolly, the godmother of Miley Stewart and a close friend of the fictional Stewart family.

Away from television, Parton continued to advise Miley as she moved from child stardom to an adult music career. The two women also performed together and collaborated on several songs over the years.

Dolly Parton Sent Billy Ray Cyrus A Final Message

Dolly Parton
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Cyrus concluded his tribute by revealing that he had received a deeply personal message from Parton shortly before her death. “Dolly recently sent me a beautiful message, telling me she loved me with her whole heart. I will always love her in the same way ….. with my whole heart … and I always will,” he wrote. His choice of words also served as a touching reference to Parton’s enduring song “I Will Always Love You.”

Cyrus did not disclose when Parton sent the message or provide further details about its contents. However, the revelation showed that their friendship remained strong more than three decades after the tabloid rumors first brought them unwanted attention.

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Billy Ray Cyrus Celebrates Dolly Parton’s Enduring Legacy

Billy Ray Cyrus attends the 62nd Annual GRAMMY Awards
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Parton’s death was announced on August 25 by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, who shared a video on behalf of the Parton and Owens families. The singer leaves behind a career filled with landmark recordings, film roles, business achievements and philanthropic work.

She earned 11 Grammy Awards and was inducted into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Her songs, including “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” “Coat of Many Colors” and “I Will Always Love You,” became enduring pieces of American music.

Parton also helped provide millions of free books to children through her Imagination Library and created an entertainment destination rooted in her East Tennessee upbringing through Dollywood.

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Marvel Officially Reveals Spider-Man’s Most Devastating Story Yet

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There is no greater magnet for misfortune in the world of Marvel Comics than Peter Parker. Part of his charm is his ability to endure one tragedy after another — from losing his uncle Ben to failing to save Gwen Stacy and erasing his marriage to Mary Jane — and come out on the other end still more than willing to keep fighting for a better tomorrow. It’s an aspect visible across all versions of the character, whether on the page or on-screen in his latest theatrical outing, Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Yet, there’s one thing that the superhero giant has been reluctant to do to its beloved web-slinger in the main Earth-616 timeline — kill his Aunt May.

While the MCU broke ranks and killed Marisa Tomei‘s May Parker in Spider-Man: No Way Home and alternate universe comics have similarly imagined a world without her, the mainline Spider-Man comics haven’t been willing to pull that proverbial trigger, at least not definitively, to this point. The Amazing Spider-Man #400 seemingly saw the death of Peter’s dear mother figure, but it was later revealed to be an actress genetically modified to look exactly like her. Her near-demise was also the catalyst for the infamous One More Day storyline, where Peter sacrificed his marriage to Mephisto to save her. There have been a few other fake-outs too, but in a universe where characters die and come back to life all the time in some form or another, The Amazing Spider-Man May has been borderline invincible. That may not last, though.













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Collider Exclusive · Marvel Personality Quiz
Which MCU Hero Are You?
Spider-Man · Daredevil · Iron Man · Punisher · Thor · Cap
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Six heroes. One destiny. Answer 10 questions to discover which Marvel Cinematic Universe hero shares your personality, values, and fighting spirit. Will you swing, fly, or thunder your way to glory?

🕷️Spider-Man

😈Daredevil

🤖Iron Man

💀Punisher

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Thor

🛡️Cap

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01

What drives you to do what’s right?
Choose the answer that feels most like you.






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02

It’s 2 AM. Where are you?
Your answer says more about you than you’d think.






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03

How do you handle a villain who keeps escaping justice?
Every hero has a method. What’s yours?






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04

How do you feel about keeping a secret identity?
The mask — or the lack of one — says everything.






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05

You’ve lost someone important because of your heroism. How do you carry that?
Every hero pays a price. The question is how they pay it.






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06

What’s your role when working with a team?
Who you are under pressure is who you actually are.






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07

Where do you draw the line between justice and revenge?
The answer defines what kind of hero you really are.






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08

When you’re not saving the world, what does life look like?
The person behind the mask is always the more interesting story.






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09

What keeps you up at night?
Fear is useful data — if you’re honest about what you’re actually afraid of.






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10

The battle is lost. You’re outnumbered, outgunned, and exhausted. What do you do?
This is your tiebreaker — choose carefully.






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Your Hero Has Been Identified
Your MCU Hero Is…

Based on your answers, the Marvel hero who matches your spirit, values, and instincts has been revealed.

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Queens, New York

🕷️ Spider-Man

You carry the weight of the world on shoulders that are younger than they should have to be — funny, loyal, and endlessly self-sacrificing.

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  • You do the right thing not because it’s easy, but because no one else will.
  • You understand that responsibility isn’t a burden you choose — it’s one that finds you.
  • Whether it’s a neighbourhood mugging or a multiverse crisis, you show up.
  • Peter Parker’s lesson — that great power demands great responsibility — isn’t a slogan to you. It’s the code you live by, even when it costs you everything.


Hell’s Kitchen, New York

😈 Daredevil

You fight in the shadows between law and chaos, guided by a fierce moral compass that refuses to let the guilty walk free.

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  • You use every tool available — your mind, your body, your faith — to protect those the system overlooks.
  • You’ve looked into the darkness and chosen not to become it, though the line has never been easy.
  • Matt Murdock’s duality — champion in the courtroom, devil in the alley — mirrors your own.
  • Relentless, conflicted, and unwilling to stop. That is exactly you.


Stark Industries, Malibu

🤖 Iron Man

Brilliant, driven, and occasionally insufferable — but always the person who solves the unsolvable problem.

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  • You lead with your mind and back it up with resources, innovation, and a stubbornness that borders on heroic.
  • You started out looking out for yourself, but somewhere along the way the world became your responsibility.
  • Tony Stark’s arc — from ego to sacrifice — is your arc too.
  • You build, you plan, and when the moment comes, you’re willing to give everything. Because in the end, you’re Iron Man.


New York City

💀 The Punisher

You’ve been through fire that would break most people — and it did change you, completely. What’s left is unyielding, relentless, and operating by a code forged in grief.

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  • You don’t ask for forgiveness, and you don’t expect gratitude.
  • You see a corrupt, broken world and you’ve decided to do something about it, consequences be damned.
  • Frank Castle’s war is born from love twisted by loss — and so is yours.
  • Uncompromising and unflinching — the world may not agree with your methods, but your conviction is absolute.


Asgard · Protector of the Nine Realms

⚡ Thor

Powerful, proud, and on a lifelong journey to become worthy of the legend you carry.

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  • You lead with strength but have learned — sometimes painfully — that true greatness comes from humility and growth.
  • You’re larger than life, yet more vulnerable than you let on.
  • Thor’s story is one of transformation: from arrogant prince to worthy king, from isolated warrior to beloved protector.
  • You bring the storm when it’s needed — and the warmth when it matters just as much.


Brooklyn, New York · The Avengers

🛡️ Captain America

You believe in something bigger than yourself — and you fight for it even when the world has moved on and nobody else will.

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  • You don’t bully the small guy, and you never stop when it gets hard.
  • Steve Rogers didn’t become a hero when he got the serum — he was always one. So were you.
  • Your strength isn’t in your fists; it’s in your refusal to compromise what’s right, no matter the cost.
  • In a world full of people taking the easy road, you’re the one who picks up the shield and stands up — every single time.

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‘The Amazing Spider-Man’s Latest Issue Sets Peter Up for Devastation

At the end of The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 7, issue #35, penned by Joe Kelly, Peter is receiving a reprimand from Agent Griffyn of the Department of Damage Control. Something happened to Ghost-Spider that caused her to lash out against the city and endanger the lives of civilians until Spidey found her and snapped her out of it. Griffyn wants to take her into custody until the other Spiders swing in and whisk her away to get checked out by Norman Osborn. He is not pleased that the wall-crawler defended a criminal, considering him just as liable for aiding and abetting. Before the chewing-out can resume, however, Peter finally answers a call from Aunt May after being repeatedly dialed. However, it’s not his beloved family member, but instead her boyfriend, Ric, urging him to come to the hospital immediately because May had a stroke.

The look of pure shock and devastation on Peter’s face under the mask when he hears the news says it all. Few characters have been as continuously important to the web-slinger as Aunt May, who has been endlessly supportive of her nephew whether she knows of his identity as Spider-Man or not. Issue #9 only further drives home their relationship, with the two getting one last heart-to-heart about how he’ll always be her son, even with the reintroduction of her and Ben’s actual son, Cormac, into her life. Losing her for the first real time in the history of The Amazing Spider-Man would be a watershed moment in Marvel Comics. Whether she lives or not, though, it’s setting up for a very consequential 1,000th issue on September 30.

In the meantime, The Amazing Spider-Man Vol. 7 #35 is now available for purchase. Stay tuned here at Collider for more coverage of the latest comics from Marvel throughout the year.


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Release Date

July 29, 2026

Runtime
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145 minutes

Director

Destin Daniel Cretton

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Writers

Chris McKenna, Erik Sommers

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Producers

Avi Arad, Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Amy Pascal, David Cain

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Taylor Swift Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Dolly Parton

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Dolly Parton's Nephew Addresses Her Death in Emotional Video: She 'Deserves to Be Comfortable’

Taylor Swift shared a heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton after the country music icon’s death at age 80.

“A world without Dolly doesn’t feel possible, real, or right. But because of the eternally generous way she spent her time on this earth and the countless lives she changed for the better, her legacy will be an everlasting one,” Swift, 36, said in a statement obtained by Us on Tuesday, August 25.

“She was truly the gift that kept on giving. Dolly gave us someone to look up to while encouraging us to be who we are as individuals,” Swift continued. “Somehow she was able to give us her lessons about the world gently and honestly, simultaneously, and oftentimes hilariously. She managed to give the world the ultimate mystery and fantasy in some corners of her life, but to give full transparency in the ways that counted. Somehow she was true grace and true grit, all in one dazzling person. She possessed the softest heart when it came to the struggles of others and a backbone of steel to defend her own self-worth as an artist.”

The Grammy winner went on, “Along with her other fans, I am so grateful for all of it. For the melodies and lyrics she wrote that thawed even the coldest hearts. For the millions of books she provided children all over the world so that they might fall in love with stories the way she did. For the tightropes she walked so that young girls like me could grow up dreaming of joining the circus too.”

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Dolly Parton's Nephew Addresses Her Death in Emotional Video: She 'Deserves to Be Comfortable’


Related: Dolly Parton’s Nephew Addresses Her Death at Age 80 in Emotional Video

Dolly Parton’s nephew Bryan Seaver paid tribute to his late aunt while confirming her death at the age of 80 in a sentimental video. “I am representing the Parton and Owens family today, announcing the passing of my Aunt Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean,” Seaver began in the clip posted to Parton’s Instagram account on Tuesday, […]

“Dolly, I’ll think of you each step of the way,” the newly married pop star concluded her tribute.

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Parton died in Nashville on Tuesday following a “brief battle with cancer,” a spokesperson for the star confirmed.

“Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope and integrity into everything she touched. Her unmatched generosity reached the lives of countless people whom she would never meet, yet she was always there to offer a helping hand,” her rep told People. “Whether it be the hundreds of millions of books donated through her invaluable Imagination Library or funding research that helped create a lifesaving vaccine used around the world, Dolly’s unconditional love for all people was the guiding force for her lasting impact.”

“After bravely facing a brief battle with cancer, Dolly departed her Earthly life today at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center surrounded by loved ones,” the statement said.

 

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Stars React to Dolly Partons Death at 80 Kacey Musgraves, Kelsea Ballerini and More Pay Tribute


Related: Barack Obama and More Stars React to Dolly Parton’s Death at 80

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Hollywood is in mourning following the death of country music icon and actress Dolly Parton. “A rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see, Dolly will forever stand as an inspiration not only through her timeless music and prolific songwriting, but also her wit, warmth and kindness that made us all feel […]

Before her death, Parton thanked Swift and husband Travis Kelce, 36, for a $2 million donation to her Imagination Library ahead of their July 3 wedding.

“I’m blown away and overjoyed with that gratitude,” Parton said in a video shared via Instagram last month.

Parton went on to joke, “Now, it’s evident that you have made giving back a key part of your lives, so hey, when you have your firstborn, can I have it? Because that is gonna be one special baby!”

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Where is the cast of “7th Heaven” now? See the stars 30 years after the premiere

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From Jessica Biel to Stephen Collins, the cast of the wholesome WB drama has gone down various paths since the show ended.

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Perez Hilton Faces A New Hurdle Before Seeing His Kids

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Perez Hilton at the 28th Annual GLAAD Media Awards

Perez Hilton’s recovery journey is entering a new phase, but one of the biggest challenges he faces has little to do with physical healing. 

Weeks after his hospitalization following a disturbing August 4 incident, the celebrity blogger is reportedly eager to reconnect with the three children he has not seen since being admitted for treatment. 

While his wounds continue to heal, family members are taking a cautious approach, prioritizing the well-being of his children as Hilton navigates both physical and mental recovery.

Perez Hilton at the 28th Annual GLAAD Media Awards
ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

For Perez Hilton, the absence of his children has reportedly become one of the hardest parts of his hospitalization. 

Sources close to the family say the blogger has only been able to communicate with Mario, Mia, and Mayte by phone since entering treatment following the incident.

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The children were inside Hilton’s Miami home when the episode unfolded. Although it remains unclear how much they witnessed before being taken outside by Hilton’s sister Barbara, family members are determined to avoid exposing them to further distress.

A longtime family friend told the Daily Mail that the 48-year-old’s injuries remain highly visible. “The cuts are bad. Still a lot of bandages. Wounds. They’re on his face and neck and arms. They’re everywhere,” the insider stated.

According to the source, that reality has significantly delayed any in-person reunions. The source revealed, “We don’t need to traumatize them all over again.”

While a Miami judge recently granted Hilton visitation rights, any meeting must be supervised by either an approved family member or a therapist, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

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Hilton Awaits Clearance Before Seeing His Kids Again

Perez Hilton attends ''Jigsaw'' Los Angeles Premiere held at ArcLight Hollywood
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Even though visitation has technically been approved, Perez Hilton still faces additional hurdles before reuniting with his children face-to-face.

Court records previously revealed that the blogger must receive psychiatric clearance from a mental health professional before visits can move forward. According to sources, that approval had not yet been granted as of the weekend, though family members remain hopeful that circumstances could change soon.

The delay is not only tied to Hilton’s mental health recovery but also to his physical condition. Family members reportedly want more time for his injuries to heal before the children see him.

“He’s still covered with cuts that are healing, stitches are dissolving and he’s still got some on his face. We’re hoping they can heal a bit more this week before he sees the kids,” a family friend explained.

In the meantime, another source said Hilton’s children are being cared for by their grandmother, Teresita, who currently maintains temporary custody. Family members have emphasized that the children are safe and supported while Hilton continues receiving treatment and working toward the next stage of his recovery.

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Perez Hilton Faces Growing Financial Pressure While Hospitalized

Perez Hilton at the Premiere Of Disney's "Mulan"
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Beyond concerns about family reunification, Hilton is also reportedly dealing with mounting financial stress as his recovery stretches into another week.

According to a Las Vegas-based friend, medical expenses have become a major source of anxiety. “Poor Perez has been spending so much money on the hospital and doctors, it has really added up and it’s a nightmare for him,” the source said.

The timing has created additional complications because the father of three was reportedly already struggling professionally before the August incident. 

Sources claim several reality television pitches failed to move beyond early development stages, while activity on his celebrity gossip website, historically his primary source of income, declined after an initial spike in traffic following the livestream.

Although Hilton’s team has resumed posting entertainment news and celebrity updates online, insiders say it remains unclear whether the site’s audience will fully rebound.

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As a result, those close to Hilton believe he may eventually explore other financial options. One insider suggested a paid interview discussing his experience could generate income, while another noted that his Las Vegas home has already been listed for sale for several months. 

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Hilton’s Sister Says She ‘Didn’t Recognize’ Him

Perez Hilton at the CATHEDRALE Grand Opening
KWKC/MEGA

While Perez Hilton’s family has been focusing on his recovery and the difficult question of when he can safely reconnect with his children, his sister, Barbara Lavandeira, has provided a deeply personal account of the moment everything changed. 

As The Blast reported, Lavandeira described August 4 as “one of the darkest days my family and I have ever experienced,” recalling that her brother had locked himself in his bedroom, which she said was unusual because his door was almost always open.  

After he stopped responding, Barbara unlocked the bedroom and discovered him in the bathroom. “When I opened the door, my nightmare became a reality,” she said, adding, “Mario was standing in front of the shower, naked, cut up, covered in blood, with a box cutter in his hand.” 

Her most striking description came moments later as she noted, “What I can say with certainty is that I didn’t recognize my brother when I looked at him. I saw it in his eyes. They didn’t look the same. Then, a split second later, he smiled at me. It felt like I was staring at someone else.”  

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Barbara said she immediately got Hilton’s three children out of the home, called 911 once they were safe, and then returned inside to help stop his bleeding until emergency responders arrived. 

She also revealed that Hilton had spoken with her and their mother about feeling “empty, hopeless, and like he was a burden on everyone” shortly before the crisis.

Perez Hilton’s Family Says Entertainment Remains Part Of His Future

Perez Hilton at Disney+ original series - The Santa Clauses - Red Carpet Event
GilbertFlores@Broadimage / MEGA

As Hilton’s family works through his recovery, another question is emerging: what happens to the career that has defined much of his adult life? 

As The Blast reported, his brother-in-law, Tom, revealed that the answer is not necessarily retirement. Despite everything that had happened, Tom believed Hilton still had an attachment to the entertainment world and to the celebrity-gossip business he had built.

“He does what he does because he loves doing it. He got into this because he loves celebrity gossip,” Tom stated while discussing Hilton’s professional future. He added that Hilton “still has love for the entertainment industry.”  

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However, Tom acknowledged that returning to that world would require more than simply walking back into the spotlight. He said Hilton will need to work out “the best ways to cope with that” as part of his recovery. 

The family has not established a timetable for his return to work, and Tom indicated that his immediate focus remained on Hilton’s mental health rather than his career. 

That uncertainty comes as Hilton’s longtime website has resumed publishing through his team, allowing the business he created to maintain a presence while he remains away.

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The 10 Most Intense Superhero Movies of All Time, Ranked

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Superhero movies are inescapable now, and that’s a statement one’s been able to make for a couple of decades, maybe even a quarter of a century. So, they’ve been more than inescapable just “now.” You’ll sometimes hear rumblings that they’re going away, or waning in popularity, but then bam, something like Spider-Man: Brand New Day comes out and becomes one of the highest-grossing movies ever in a matter of weeks. Like, seriously, look at how much money that thing has made… it casts doubt on the whole “superhero fatigue” thing.

So, they’re popular. And they’re often crowd-pleasing, but not always. Some of the following superhero movies have been popular, but they’re all united by being kind of dark. They’re the most intense superhero movies ever made, basically, with a mix of ones that were largely successful and popular (despite some of the bleakness contained within them) and others that were more violent and less audience-friendly.

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10

‘Batman Returns’ (1992)

Batman-returns-Michelle-Pfeiffer-Danny-Devito Image via Warner Bros.

Batman Returns has admirably bad vibes. The first Batman movie Tim Burton helmed was sufficiently dark, and certainly more intense than most other superhero movies had been up until that point, but Batman Returns was definitely next-level. “Grotesque” feels like an appropriate adjective here, mostly thanks to the villains, and then the dark atmosphere of the first movie is made darker, too.

There is a level of camp in both movies that prevents either from being as full-on as some of the films that’ll be mentioned in a bit, but if Batman Returns wasn’t here, it would feel like too great an omission. It walked (nastily) so other ambitious, mature, and not really kid-friendly superhero movies could run (also nastily; like, big, squelchy footsteps, all through mud) later on.

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9

‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014)

Someone making the argument that Captain America: The Winter Soldier is more of a spy thriller than a superhero movie might be pushing things a little, but there is still a good deal of espionage-related thriller stuff here. It gets bigger and more superhero-y in its second half, and it is still a piece of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which might restrict it a little by way of what boundaries can be pushed, yet this does feel more dangerous than the majority of MCU movies for sure.

There is a way that Captain America: The Winter Soldier shakes up the status quo, to some extent, that is pretty neat. There’s only one other MCU movie that does more by way of disrupting the whole (generally stable) cinematic universe, and more on that one in a bit (it is definitely darker than The Winter Soldier, mostly when it comes to its ending).

8

‘Chronicle’ (2012)

Andrew Detmer (Dane DeHaan) uses his powers to crush a car in 'Chronicle.'
Andrew Detmer (Dane DeHaan) uses his powers to crush a car in ‘Chronicle.’
Image via 20th Century Studios
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Chronicle is a bit of a deconstruction of the whole superhero genre, or at least an attempt to try and do things realistically. It’s grounded, thanks to the found footage style, being about three teenagers who begin developing superpowers after coming across a strange object inside a cave. The abilities they have are fun at first, and then things inevitably get kind of bleak when one of them decides he can strike back at those who bullied him using the powers he has.

It almost feels like a stretch to label it a superhero movie, since there isn’t much by way of heroics, but Chronicle still qualifies… just. It’s good, too, and has proven to be a pretty effective time capsule for the 2010s (the first half of that decade being almost far back enough, now, to be genuinely nostalgic).

7

‘The Batman’ (2022)

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Robert Pattinson as Batman at the ending of The Batman (2022)
Image via Warner Bros. Pictures
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Hey, another Batman movie. The Batman was yet another reboot for the character, with Robert Pattinson being yet another actor to play Bruce Wayne/Batman, and he was a surprisingly good one, too. But yeah, like Batman Returns, and at least one other Batman movie that’ll be mentioned a little later, The Batman is moody and intense, and it feels that way for a long time, too.

The Batman is long, clocking in at almost three hours. There is genuine hope at the end of it all (the last words spoken being a sincere “Take care of yourself), and Bruce Wayne/Batman’s character arc here involves moving on from being purely defined by his darkest qualities. That being said, you do get a lot of darkness and an overall very grimy feel to it all in the lead-up to that eventual catharsis, so it still feels like one of the heavier superhero movies of the last decade or so.

6

‘The Crow’ (1994)

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Based on a graphic novel that’s all about grief, The Crow (1994) had to be dark. And it went dark earlier than most superhero movies, admittedly coming out after Batman Returns, but being more emotionally raw and violent than that film, mostly thanks to its R rating.

As for the story here, a man comes back from the dead, and avenges his death and that of his fiancée with supernatural powers he has post-resurrection. And there are some other things that go on, but it’s pretty focused compared to the rawer and less narrative-heavy source material. Both are very good in their own ways, though, hitting hard emotionally. Of course, what happened to Brandon Lee during the film’s production inadvertently added to that sense of heaviness… it’s hard not to think about it while watching the movie, for obvious reasons.

5

‘Super’ (2010)

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While Super is technically a comedy, it’s about as dark as dark comedies get, and it also gleefully jumps around quite a lot tonally, especially by the time it reaches its final act. It’s also a deconstruction of the superhero genre, kind of like Chronicle, though going for a different thing genre-wise, obviously. Still, the approach here is more or less “Let’s do superheroes, but realistic.”

Also, Super is extra interesting to watch post-2014, since that was the year James Gunn started directing more approachable and crowd-pleasing superhero movies.

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Here, the main character who aspires to be a superhero (of sorts) is going through a lot, to put it mildly, and his brutality as a vigilante is funny until it isn’t. Also, Super is extra interesting to watch post-2014, since that was the year James Gunn started directing more approachable and crowd-pleasing superhero movies, starting with Guardians of the Galaxy (even 2021’s The Suicide Squad doesn’t feel as brutal or cynical as Super).

4

‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018)

Avengers_ Infinity War - 2018 (4) Image via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Speaking of Guardians of the Galaxy, the characters from that are featured in Avengers: Infinity War, alongside pretty much all the heroes who’d been introduced in the Marvel Cinematic Universe pre-2018 (no Hawkeye or Ant-Man until the sequel – Endgame – though). Everyone is needed because the film’s antagonist is particularly powerful, and because he wants to eradicate half of all life in the universe.

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Thanos is probably the best villain the whole MCU has had to date, and the one to beat going forward. Speaking of being beaten… well, you probably know what happens in Avengers: Infinity War, and why it places here. The intensity of the ending is ultimately resolved, and the cinematic universe kept marching on, but in the moment, it was one hell of a mic drop, before the mic was eventually picked up again. Still…

3

‘Watchmen’ (2009)

Watchmen - 2009 (1) Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Watchmen is the go-to superhero/comic book deconstruction story, and it takes the idea of superheroes realistically while still being quite bold as a work of science fiction. It’s an odd line walked, but it mostly does this by taking place in an alternate history, which lets it get a bit stranger – and not as grounded – as the likes of subsequent superhero deconstructions, like Chronicle and Super.

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It’s interesting to compare it to the source material, too, which feels a bit more realistic in some ways (less stylish action and characters who don’t look as Hollywood as the actors who’d go on to portray them) but then you also have to address the giant squid in the room, which is a wilder place that’s gone to narratively than where the film goes. Both the graphic novel and the movie are good, though. If that’s a hot take. It’s hard to know, nowadays.

2

‘Logan’ (2017)

Hugh Jackman as Logan looking ahead in 2017 X-Men film Logan.

Hugh Jackman as Logan looking ahead in 2017 X-Men film Logan.

Image via 20th Century Studios
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The only thing that’ll cause more despair than Logan is trying to work out where it fits into the whole X-Men timeline, or chronology, or lack thereof. It’s a hopeless endeavor, fitting for a movie that feels very hopeless for 95% of its runtime, The Batman-style (with a tiny bit by way of positive emotions felt by the end of it all, though you do have to work for that small degree of catharsis).

Logan takes place in a dystopian future, with the titular character (AKA Wolverine) dealing with his body finally physically breaking down and degrading, while Charles Xavier is dealing with his mind breaking down. And the whole of society is breaking down, and mutants are going extinct and being hunted. It’s all pretty miserable, but it’s all pretty good, too, so long as you don’t mind the bleakness of it all (or so much of it, at least).

1

‘The Dark Knight’ (2008)

A clown henchmen in The Dark Knight
A clown henchmen in The Dark Knight
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Sure, lots of the previously mentioned movies are more violent than The Dark Knight, which does squeak by with a PG-13 rating (it’s one of the more intense PG-13 movies out there for sure, though), but intensity isn’t directly proportional to the level of violence in a film. The Dark Knight is just relentless with how it feels and how it’s paced, and it was a shock to the system at the time, too.

Most of the previously mentioned superhero movies also came out post-The Dark Knight, and while it’s impossible to say that it definitely influenced all of them, it probably influenced – or paved the way for – at least some of them to go to the places they did, emotionally and thematically. The darkness here isn’t as surprising now, of course, but considering how explosive and game-changing it was back in 2008, this film deserves the #1 spot here.

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Rebel Wilson Lawsuit Connection to Blake Lively Legal Saga

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Rebel Wilson Sued for Defamation by The Deb Producers Ahead of Directorial Debut 769

As Rebel Wilson fights a Hollywood producer’s claims that she tried to damage her reputation, new legal documents have linked the legal battle to Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s now-settled It Ends With Us case.

According to documents filed with the Superior Court of the State of California on Tuesday, August 25, and obtained by Us, Amanda Ghost has provided alleged correspondence sent by Wilson, 46, to the same PR company who Lively, 39, alleged orchestrated a smear campaign against her led by Baldoni, 42.

In the documents, texts allegedly sent by Wilson to entertainment publicist Melissa Nathan, suggest that the Pitch Perfect star ordered Nathan to create anonymous websites that tarnished Ghost. (Ghost worked with Wilson on the star’s 2024 directorial debut The Deb, during which the pair experienced a falling out.)

“Question – did you receive my text for the website?” Wilson allegedly wrote to Nathan, per the text exchange. “I never received an invoice.”

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Rebel Wilson Sued for Defamation by The Deb Producers Ahead of Directorial Debut 769


Related: Rebel Wilson Countersues ‘The Deb’ Producers Who Accused Her of Defamation

UPDATE — 10/4/24, 9:07 a.m. ET: Rebel Wilson filed a countersuit against The Deb producers who accused her of defamation, Us Weekly can confirm. According to court documents obtained by Us, Wilson’s cross-complaint alleges that producers Amanda Ghost, Cameron Gregor and Vince Holden had a pattern of intimidation and threats directed toward Wilson. “Amanda Ghost, Cameron […]

Nathan’s alleged response read, “Morning, so sorry I was asleep. We have full text for the website we hadn’t heard from you – I know that it was a tough few days your end so I didn’t want to keep bugging. Your business manager has already sorted this with Bryan’s office. It will be up shortly once this is done.”

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Additional emailed correspondence in Ghost’s filing appeared to show draft text for a website that appeared online in August 2024. The email included content that disparaged Ghost, labeling her “the Indian Ghislaine Maxwell,” which appeared on the site. (Maxwell, 64, is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for helping the late businessman Jeffrey Epstein groom underage women.)

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Rebel Wilson
John Phillips/Getty Images

Tuesday’s court documents state that Ghost alleges that Nathan and her firm TAG PR “collectively participated in causing the publication and dissemination of websites (“Ghost Websites”) containing such accusations against Ms. Ghost as that she is involved in “procuring young women for the pleasure of the extremely wealthy.””

The documents also allege that Bryan Freedman, who represented Baldoni after Lively sued the It Ends With Us director at the end of December 2024, which resulted in a countersuit, and Jed Wallace, who was included in “text messages, depositions and legal filings as playing a key role in alleged efforts to damage” Lively’s reputation, per The New York Times.

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Blake Lively
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue

Baldoni, Wallace and Nathan all denied Lively’s allegations and Lively’s lawsuit was settled in May.

A lawyer for Wilson told The New York Times on Tuesday that the filing was “one-sided and thus incomplete,” adding that “there are two sides to every story, and Ms. Wilson looks forward to telling her side at the trial in this disputed matter.”

Wilson is scheduled to go to trial with Ghost in Los Angeles in January 2027.

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Vanessa Hudgens’ Dress Is Flattering on Women 35+ — The Look

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NEW YORK, NY - MAY 5: Christie Brinkley is seen at an announcement for the launch of the new

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According to Vanessa Hudgens, “magic is always made with Disney.” But if you ask Us, the body-hugging dress style she wore to the Disney Entertainment Showcase is arguably the most enchanting thing we saw during the event. It’s everything dreams are made of with a gorgeous fall-ready hue, flattering details and elevated embellishments that steal the show — and we found a similar look hiding on Amazon.

The D3 Disney event drew stars from our childhood, including Anne Hathaway, the Jonas Brothers, Kristen Bell and more. And while we’re entranced by the star-studded group, our fashion radar immediately went off when Hudgens graced the stage while wearing a floor-length Bottega Veneta maxi dress outfitted with all the bells and whistles. We tracked down the exact dress, which happens to be $3,900 aka a little out of budget. However, that won’t stop Us from getting the style, not when this $33 option is ready for the taking.

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Get the Valiamcep Mock-Neck Midi Dress for $33 (was $37) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

The Valiamcep Mock-Neck Midi Dress is one of those pieces you’ll wear every chance you get this fall. Similar to Hudgens’ pick, it has a high neckline, comfortable bodycon fit and gold accents that elevate the dress tenfold. The main attraction is definitely the twisted ruched waist, which gathers the fabric around the smallest area of your body to give you that coveted hourglass appearance. It’s no wonder the dress is flattering on women 35 and over!

Although the dress has a bodycon silhouette, the soft and stretchy material makes it feel so comfortable while you walk, sit or dance the night away. The lightweight fabric gives off an easy-going feel that shoppers appreciate, and delivers an opaque appearance to prevent ‘oopsie’ moments. It’s honestly a gorgeous midi dress option that’s ideal for every upscale event from now through November.

Speaking of events, shoppers say this Amazon find is a great option to wear to weddings, nights out and special occasions. We can’t agree more!

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A 61-year-old reviewer who wore it to a wedding said they would actually buy the style again. “I loved the ruching around the middle; for those of you who have the menopause middle . . . it’s great,” they wrote. “[I] had all the young girls complementing me.”

Meanwhile, another shopper said the dress is “so comfy, it feels like a part of your body.” And one last fan simply shared that the midi dress is “worth every penny.”

The ultra-flattering midi dress is available in so many autumnal colors, including chocolate brown, burgundy and black. However, if you want to get close to Hudgens’ look, we recommend going with the army green hue. It’s not the exact color as her designer find, but honestly, no one will be the wiser.

Now’s your chance to get the style fall dreams are made of with this mock-neck midi dress on Amazon. It proves you don’t need a Disney Channel star budget to get the look, just a keen eye and a Prime account. Before you know it, this mythical-looking dress will be at your front door. It’s just like magic!

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Get the Valiamcep Mock-Neck Midi Dress for $33 (was $37) at Amazon! Please note, prices are accurate as of the publishing date but are subject to change.

Looking for something else? Explore more fall midi dresses here, and don’t forget to check out all of Amazon’s Daily Deals for more great finds!

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping

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NEW YORK, NY - MAY 5: Christie Brinkley is seen at an announcement for the launch of the new


Related: Christie Brinkley Wore a Hamptons-Chic Top That Transitions to Fall

Christie Brinkley knows how to show up and show out, and yes, we’re referring to the gorgeous coastal-chic outfit she flaunted for a ‘fit check.’ Her look gives instant Hamptons rich mom style, thanks to a few staple pieces that are flowy, comfortable and downright flattering. We’re obsessing over the entire ensemble, but her striped […]

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Influencer MacKenzie Smith Announces Split From Husband

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Influencer Jensen Savannah Nichol Says Separation From Estranged Husband Hasn't Been an 'Amicable Transition'

Lifestyle influencer MacKenzie Smith has announced she is splitting from her pro surfer husband, Jeremy Johnston.

“Jeremy and I have decided to end our marriage,” the Florida-based social media star, 39, shared via Instagram on Tuesday, August 25. “The past six months have been some of the hardest of my life. I’ve been struggling physically, mentally and emotionally while navigating the biggest transition I’ve ever faced.”

The “Grilled Cheese Social” content creator continued, “Keeping something this big to myself has honestly felt really lonely. Some days have felt impossibly heavy. But other days, I can finally see little glimpses of brighter days ahead.”

Smith and Johnston, 40, share two children, daughter Poppy and son Jett.

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Influencer Jensen Savannah Nichol Says Separation From Estranged Husband Hasn't Been an 'Amicable Transition'


Related: Influencer Jensen Savannah Nichol Announces Separation From Husband

Influencer Jensen Savannah Nichol and her husband have separated after more than nine years together. “Hey y’all. I know many of you have noticed it’s just been me lately. I’ve received a lot of kind messages and questions which is why I wanted to share this once, clearly,” Nichol wrote via Instagram on Friday, January […]

Smith, who is also a food author and Food Network personality, did not expand as to why she has split from Jeremy, whom she married in a surprise wedding in December 2018, but did address public interest in an explanation. “I’m not going to get into the details of why. Some things are ours to work through privately, especially for our kids,” she wrote in the post. “What I will say is that I truly wish Jeremy nothing but the best. Regardless of what we’ve been through, he is the father of my children, and our kids deserve two parents who are healthy, happy and cheering them (and each other) on.”

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The influencer, who boasts more than 800,000 Instagram fans alone, also explained that the split has changed her typically enthusiastic career approach and fan engagement. “A few of you have noticed things feel different and that I’ve been more absent than normal and have since reached out,” she explained. “And I truly appreciate it. I do want to say that I haven’t stayed quiet because I’m trying to pretend everything is perfect. Quite honestly, it’s felt like the exact opposite.”

She concluded of her absence, “I waited because I wanted my kids to know before the entire internet did.”

Feature Jen Hamilton Breaks Silence on Split


Related: Influencer Jen Hamilton Breaks Silence on Split From Husband

Influencer Jen Hamilton shared another emotional video after sparking speculation that her marriage to husband Brian is over. “OK, no crying,” she began in a TikTok posted on Monday, June 15, which she captioned, “The ‘statement.’” Hamilton continued in her video: “I’m feeling embarrassed and feeling exposed and feeling sad, feeling every single thing you […]

Fans took to the post’s comments section to share their sympathy for Smith’s personal news. “You have so many people who love you and are cheering you on through all of it. We got you, sweet girl!” wrote one fan. Another follower commented, “So glad you took the time to announce your way. Love you to bits.”

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Just hours prior to Smith’s announcement going live, Johnston shared a message about community kindness via his own Instagram. “Just sharing a little kindness on Flagler Ave this morning because that’s what our community is all about!” he captioned a video that showed him donating clothes to locals at New Smyrna Beach.

At the time of publication, the athlete, who rarely shares content stemming from his personal life, had not publicly commented on his split from Smith.

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Netflix Just Added One of 2025’s Biggest Hidden-Gem Spy Thrillers

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Sam Reid in The Vampire Lestat

When AMC acquired the rights to Anne Rice‘s two most legendary series, The Vampire Chronicles and Lives of the Mayfair Witches, the company always intended to form the Immortal Universe — a collection of television shows based on Rice’s intertwined book world. The opening step toward achieving that goal, Interview with the Vampire, launched to sweeping acclaim and a recently announced Season 4. Step two, Mayfair Witches, has been less successful in general quality and adaptational terms, but has nevertheless secured an upcoming third season.

Talamasca: The Secret Order, AMC’s third and most recent spin-off, happens to be the only entry in the Immortal Universe that is essentially an original show. Members of the covert titular organization feature heavily in Rice’s supernatural catalog, but she never devoted an entire novel to their secretive inner workings. Unfortunately, Talamasca: The Secret Order is also the first spin-off to receive the cancellation death sentence. Although it contends with normal first-season growing pains, the series’ fate is a shame. Thoroughly entertaining, competently constructed, easily bingeable, and bolstered by a distinct tone and superb cast, Talamasca: The Secret Order dives into the intriguing and unexplored corners of Rice’s massive world with aplomb.

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‘Talamasca: The Secret Order’ Assembles a Superb Main Cast

Talamasca: The Secret Order‘s creative team, led by John Lee Hancock, builds a mythos largely authentic to Rice’s sensibilities and sets their characters not within their sister series’ Gothic opulence, but in the high-stakes world of espionage thrillers. Given the clandestine shadow that the Talamasca casts across Interview with the Vampire and Mayfair Witches, Talamasca: The Secret Order‘s experimental tone is an impressively canny idea. Hancock dabbles in suspense tropes and archetypes galore: an amateur with raw talent who’s thrown into the deep end, racing to obtain a top-secret artifact, danger lurking around every corner, infiltrating enemy headquarters, dead drops and redacted files and double agents, and a near-omniscient agency — created to monitor, study, and defend humanity from paranormal entities – that’s questionable at best and conspiratorially corrupt at worst.

From there, Talamasca: The Secret Order is a case of letting marvelous actors reel viewers in like a fish on a line. On the page, protagonist and audience surrogate Guy Anatole (Nicholas Denton), a telepath hunting down the truth about his vanished mother, could be the show’s one-note doom. Instead, Denton ensures Guy’s journey remains eminently watchable. Helen (Elizabeth McGovern), Guy’s Talamasca recruiter and the leader of their New York branch (or Mother House), glides between pragmatic leadership and her soft spot for the young man who’s prodding at her hidden wounds.

If the enticingly enigmatic witch Doris (Celine Buckens) easily shoulders the series’ late-stage emotional heft, then Olive (Maisie Richardson-Sellers), Guy’s handler, maintains the enthralling and chameleon-like energy set by her introductory scene. That said, it’s William Fichtner‘s villainous Jasper, in all his razor-precise and scenery-devouring swagger, who runs away with the entire production. Only Guy seems to keep the manipulative, vendetta-fueled, and overwhelmingly charismatic vampire on his toes. Their cat-and-mouse dynamic draws amused fondness and manipulative vulnerability from Jasper — which is quite an intoxicating combination.

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‘Talamasca: The Secret Order’ Carves Out an Intriguing Corner of AMC’s Immortal Universe

Talamasca: The Secret Order might not have taken off with as much ferocity as hoped, but its easily correctable flaws (overly predictable beats, heavy-handed dialogue, logistical leaps, inconsistent pacing) only need a little extra finesse to cross the finish line. Its tantalizing concepts, the ones present within Rice’s creative milieu that Interview and Mayfair are limited to lightly touching upon, merit further development. After all, the late author’s sandbox includes more creatures than vampires and witches — not to mention other realms.

Furthermore, the show itself teases worthwhile material surrounding Guy’s mother, vampire experimentation, and the agency’s inherent flaws (tormenting children, molding their targets into loyal-at-all-costs soldiers, murdering their own to cover their tracks, how and why they intervene on behalf of humanity’s supposed protection). Even when it wobbles into clumsy patches, Talamasca‘s strongest qualities deserved more time to secure the show’s identity and accumulate a bigger audience.


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Talamasca: The Secret Order

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Release Date

2025 – 2026-00-00

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Network

AMC

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Showrunner

John Lee Hancock, Mark Lafferty

Directors
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Eva Sørhaug


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  • Headshot Of Nicholas Denton

    Nicholas Denton

    Guy Anatole

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  • Cast Placeholder Image

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