Supergirl may have fallen well short of expectations at the box office, but Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav is making it clear that the studio remains confident in the future of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DC Universe.

During Warner Bros. Discovery’s latest earnings call, Zaslav was asked about the state of DC following the disappointing theatrical performance of Supergirl. Rather than signaling a change in direction, the Warner Bros. Discovery boss pointed toward the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry and the projects DC Studios already has in development.

“Media is by nature a business full of hits and misses,” Zaslav said.

The comments come after Supergirl, starring Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El, struggled to find a sizable audience in theaters. The film opened to approximately $37 million domestically and ultimately finished its theatrical run with around $125 million worldwide against a reported $170 million production budget.

Milly Alcock Supergirl [Warner bros.]

Those numbers make Supergirl a significant financial disappointment for Warner Bros. and an early setback for Gunn and Safran’s rebooted DC Universe. However, Zaslav does not appear ready to judge the future of the franchise based on the performance of a single film.

“We have a robust pipeline,” Zaslav said while discussing what is coming from DC Studios.

One of the biggest projects in that pipeline is Man of Tomorrow, Gunn’s follow up to 2025’s Superman. Zaslav revealed that Gunn is currently focused on the upcoming film and said he has already seen material from the production.

“James is now focused on Man of Tomorrow,” Zaslav said, adding that he recently saw images from the film and that it “looks fantastic.”

Man of Tomorrow will bring David Corenswet back as Superman alongside Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. Gunn has previously teased an unusual dynamic between the longtime enemies, revealing that Superman and Lex will be forced to work together, at least to some degree, against a larger threat.

The film is quickly becoming one of the most important projects in the early years of the new DCU. Gunn’s Superman successfully launched the theatrical side of the franchise in 2025, while Supergirl demonstrated just how difficult it can be to turn lesser established DC characters into major theatrical draws.

That doesn’t necessarily mean the DCU itself is in trouble. One unsuccessful movie rarely determines the fate of an entire cinematic universe, particularly this early in its lifespan. But Supergirl does put additional pressure on upcoming projects to prove that audiences are interested in exploring the wider DC roster beyond characters like Superman and Batman.

Superman Man of tomorrow [Warner bros.]

Warner Bros. also has more opportunities to build that audience. DC Studios has several projects moving forward across film and television, including Lanterns, Clayface and eventually The Batman Part II under the separate DC Elseworlds banner.

For now, Warner Bros. appears committed to staying the course.

Rather than reacting to Supergirl by immediately restructuring its DC plans, Zaslav’s comments suggest the studio understands that building a new cinematic universe will inevitably come with successes and failures. The real question will be whether Gunn and Safran can turn those individual projects into a franchise audiences consistently want to follow.

Man of Tomorrow could provide that answer sooner rather than later.

The film is currently scheduled to hit theaters on July 9, 2027.

Jennifer Garner‘s romance with partner John Miller is reportedly reaching its “breaking point,” amid her complex co-parenting relationship with her ex-husband, Ben Affleck.

Miller and Garner have been dating for over seven years, intentionally keeping their relationship out of the spotlight in stark contrast to her previous high-profile marriage to Affleck.

Insiders now claim things are getting complicated behind the scenes due to Jennifer Garner’s close relationship with her ex-husband, leaving her and Miller to question the future of their romance.

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Sources who spoke to Closer Magazine shared that Garner is looking to push her relationship with Miller forward, but her close bond and co-parenting ties with her former husband, Affleck, seem to be a major obstacle for the couple.

According to the sources, balancing a low-key romance with Miller became a complex task as she handled custody schedules through Affleck’s turbulent relationship and divorce from Jennifer Lopez.

While her daily communication with her ex was supposed to remain entirely about the kids, their lingering closeness is said to be now placing a massive strain on her seven-year relationship.

“John doesn’t feel threatened in terms of Jen ever getting back with Ben, but at the same time, it’s hard not to feel jealous when it’s clear they have a strong connection and friendship,” a source stated.

While Miller is said to not be “pushy,” he reportedly harbors a strong desire to progress their seven-year romance.

This shifting dynamic threatens to disrupt the delicate balance Garner has worked hard to maintain.

“There’s definitely a part of him that wants more,” an insider shared, noting that although friends and fans “would love to see Jen take the leap and commit to John,” the actress has instead “elected to push the pause button” for the time being.

The Actress’s Friends Fear Her Partner Will Feel ‘Taken For Granted’

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While Garner appears focused on doing things her own way, her close friends fear that Miller will eventually feel sidelined by her hesitation to progress their relationship from its current state.

Highlighting this underlying tension, a source noted, “Some of her pals are worried he could get to the point where he feels taken for granted.”

The insider warned that the duo “need to come up with a realistic plan for their future,” noting that “neither of them wants this relationship to drift along forever.”

After seven years of keeping their romance out of the spotlight, the couple has seemingly arrived at a definitive “breaking point” where simply standing still is no longer an option.

With Affleck remaining such an integral part of her daily life, sources claim Garner must now navigate a complex crossroads. She is forced to find a clear path forward with Miller that preserves the unique family structure she shares with her ex-husband, or face the reality of watching another meaningful relationship slip away.

Jennifer Garner Spoke About Her Painful Split From Ben Affleck

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The actress has previously offered a rare glimpse into the heavy toll of her split from Affleck, describing the struggle of facing an uncertain future.

Reflecting on her 2015 separation, Garner admitted that because she had been married for so long, she genuinely worried she would never fully recover from the shock of its collapse.

“I was in the middle of something for a really long time,” she explained to Flaunt Magazine early this year, noting her profound worry that the sudden family “shake up” had fundamentally changed her as a person.

Describing the stressful nature of long-term heartbreak, Garner said, “When you’re many years into something, you think, ‘I don’t know how it’s gonna pass.’”

During her chat with the publication, she also addressed speculation she was engaged to Miller, noting that the jewelry on her finger was not an engagement ring.

“I actually have taken over my own left hand, my left ring finger, because I don’t care… I just feel like I’m in my 50s (Garner is 53), I own my own fingers,” Garner stated.

The Actress Is Finding It ‘Difficult’ To ‘Fully Merge Her Life’ With John Miller

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After intentionally avoiding public attention, Garner and Miller now appear to have arrived at a critical turning point in their relationship.

A source previously shared with Star Magazine that their flexible setup functioned flawlessly for years, noting, “[Miller] accepted that, and for a long time their very non-traditional arrangement seemed to work perfectly.”

The source noted that the pair “were fine keeping things private and working around their custody schedules without feeling any pressure to move in together or make some big commitment.”

However, things appear to be taking a sudden turn. The insider noted that the unique “nature” of Garner’s current “dynamic” with Affleck has ultimately made it “very difficult for her to fully merge her life with John.”

Jennifer Garner Is Concerned About Ben Affleck’s Love Life

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Away from Garner’s romance struggles, the actress is also said to be concerned about Affleck’s love life after his high-profile split from Lopez and wishes he would put a pause on dating.

A source close to the family told Page Six, “Jen thinks it might actually be good for Ben to take a break from dating for a while. She cares about him a lot and only wants what’s best for him at the end of the day.”

The source detailed how Garner hopes he will maintain this current momentum, adding, “From her perspective, he’s happier than he’s been in a long time, and she feels like it could be healthy for him to keep putting that energy into himself, his work, and his family instead of jumping into a relationship.”

However, she maintains a strict boundary, with the insider reaffirming, “That said, she trusts Ben to make his own decisions and supports him either way.”

Genetics, daily activities, whatever the cause may be, I stand firmly in the broad-shoulder category. I accept it (and have learned to appreciate it), but shopping for chic seasonal dresses still throws me through a loop . . . until now. I recently cracked the shoulder-flattering code, and I now feel confident in nearly every dress I slip on.

So what’s the secret? Well, I have a few. Vertical lines, wrap silhouettes and voluminous skirts are a couple of details I look for to make my broad shoulders appear smaller (and make me feel ten out of ten). If you’re like me and want to minimize your shoulders, elevate your aesthetic and feel like a million bucks, read on. These ultra-flattering dresses will carry you from pumpkin patches to fall weddings with sky-high confidence!

13 Dress Styles to Minimize Broad Shoulders

1. No-Brainer: When I don’t want to think about my shoulders or arms at all, I reach for a drapey puff-sleeve dress, like this popular pick, which covers both.

2. One-Shoulder Wonder: Asymmetrical dresses break up your shoulders diagonally. As such, your frame appears narrower by default.

3. Wrapped Up: Not only does this wrap dress minimize your upper half, but it also cinches at your waist. The Mediterranean print is just a bonus.

4. Everyday Outfit: Lazy Sundays call for this comfy quarter-zip dress that when undone has a V-neck design that draws the eyes downward. It seriously feels like sweats.

5. Cold Shoulder: You might think off-the-shoulder dresses are off limits (pun intended), but we think sliding the neckline off to one side has a mega flattering effect.

Related: Anthropologie Dresses Are Trending, But So Are These Amazon Lookalikes

There’s a reason everyone flocks to Anthropologie this time of year. The brand’s fall styles are undeniably chic, but honestly, we’re not even tempted to shop at the retailer after discovering these enchanting boho dresses on Amazon. We genuinely can’t tell the difference, and yet, they start at only $10! With breezy silhouettes, rich color […]

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6. Frills and Fuss: When in doubt, distract! This loose mini dress features a busy print and drapey ruffle sleeves that steal the attention.

7. Pretty Pleats: Combine pleats, vertical stripes and flowy sleeves, and you have this A-line midi. It’s a slimming favorite that’s selling out on Nordstrom, especially now that it’s 33% off.

8. Wardrobe Staple: With the right sleeve length, puff-sleeve dresses can conceal your shoulders and balance your hips. This solid-color midi does both.

9. Mock-Neck Maven: Timeless and polished, this mock-neck mini dress elevates your aesthetic while elongating your torso.

10. Simple Stunner: Imagine a crisp button-up shirt in dress form. That’s what you get with this striped shirtdress that works for everything, including coffee runs and in-office days.

11. Wedding Guest: Fancy occasions call for this velvet maxi dress that features dainty mesh sleeves, a sweeping skirt and a gorgeous jade print. You’ll forget about your shoulders.

12. Silky Satin: When you’re somewhere hot, you’ll be glad to have this elegant, cooling gown that gathers in all the right places.

13. Zimmermann Vibes: Look no further for a long-sleeve mini dress that’ll carry you from orchards to vineyards. The smocked bodice adds just enough structure.

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

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –> 

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Related: Jennifer Lopez Solved Our Transitional Wardrobe Woes With a $36 Dress Style

Choosing what to wear from now through November isn’t an easy task, but Jennifer Lopez makes it incredibly simple, wearing a loose, polished shirtdress that stuns with flip-flops, sneakers and booties alike. Somehow, her chic look is only $36! Exploring Italy with her kids, Lopez wore a striped shirtdress with easy sandals and a headband. […]

Lisa Kudrow is an established actress with a stacked resume, full of beloved classics, such as “The Comeback,” “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion,” and, of course, “Friends.” However, before booking the role of Phoebe Buffay in the ’90s hit, Kudrow believed she’d forever struggle landing a series regular role. In a new interview, the actress said that her belief stemmed from something TV executives told her early in her career.

Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, Kudrow said that when she began her career in the entertainment industry, it took her a while to find her place because she didn’t look like some of the other women around her.

“I didn’t look like women who were getting cast as series regulars on sitcoms,” she said, adding that networks and casting directors wanted a “certain look,” one that was “pretty and appealing.”

Kudrow went further and said that she was told she was “hard” to cast because “you’re not gorgeous, and they want gorgeous.”

Kudrow didn’t let that deter her, though. “I got it. Also, it’s not just how you look; it’s how you act, too. I’m not ‘cute.’ And God, I didn’t want to be cute,” she stated.

Lisa Kudrow Says The Cast Of ‘Friends’ Actually ‘Loved One Another’

Kudrow appeared in the iconic television series from 1994 until 2004, and while it’s ended, the series lives on in the hearts of many today.

In a 2024 interview, Kudrow acknowledged the show’s continued success and says she was “lucky” and “privileged” to be part of it.

“I won a lottery being on ‘Friends,’” she said, adding that anything else she did after was “icing.” She went on to say that because of the role and the show’s dedicated fan base, she was able to support herself as an actor.

In addition to that, Kudrow said working on the show was unlike anything else she’s done because she was with “people that I loved.”

“We loved each other,” she added. “Going to work every day was heaven. It was too good to be true, but it really was.”

Lisa Kudrow Says ‘Nobody Cared About Me’ While Filming ‘Friends’

Despite feeling grateful for her role on the show, Kudrow said things weren’t always as they seemed. According to The Blast, the actress said that she felt overlooked while filming the series, and like “nobody care about me.”

She then reflected on how she believed her career stalled after “Friends” unlike her co-stars, who went on to book box office films and other successful shows.

“There was no vision for me, and no expectations about the kind of career I could have,” she said. “There was just, like, ‘Boy, is she lucky she got on that show.’”

How ‘Friends’ Changed For Kudrow Following The Death Of Matthew Perry

Tragedy has also surrounded the cast of “Friends,” when actor Matthew Perry died in October 2023. Kudrow spoke with the media in 2026 about the series and said that her perception had changed after rewatching it following Perry’s passing.

“After Matthew died, I watched the show again,” she said, per The Blast. “Before, I only saw what I did wrong or could have done better. But for the first time, I truly appreciated just how great it was. I felt I did OK, but Jennifer and Courteney? Amazing. David and Matt? They had me laughing so hard. And then Matthew, he was just beyond us all.”

Kudrow Posts Moving Statement After Perry’s Death

Kudrow posted a tribute shortly after the actor’s death, reflecting on their instant bond and thanking him for protecting her when they were together.

“Thank you for making me laugh so hard at something you said, that my muscles ached, and tears poured down my face EVERY DAY,” she wrote. “Thank you for your open heart in a six way relationship that required compromise. And a lot of ‘talking.’ Thank you for showing up at work when you weren’t well and then, being completely brilliant.”

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If the end of summer means less time working remotely and more time at the office, you might want to give your wardrobe a quick fall update — and no, we’re not just talking about sweaters. Instead of reaching for high heels, which might make your feet ache after a few hours, consider laid-back alternatives that look just as elevated while also giving your work uniform an autumnal-chic spin.

We scoured Amazon’s fall edit and found several laid-back luxe shoe options that will carry you to your 9-to-5 and back — without compromising comfort. Whether you prefer ballet flats, mules, boots or sneakers (yes, some workplaces are fine with that!), the list ahead is for you. These fall-friendly options pair well with trousers, dresses and beyond.

15 Laid-Back Luxe Shoes for Fall Office Days

Comfy Flats and Mules

1. Our Favorite: With breathable knit fabric, these Mary Jane-style flats offer flexibility and comfort. Believe it or not, they’re safe to put in the washing machine, so you’ll never fall victim to smelly shoes again.

2. Sweet Suede: On mornings when you’re running out the door, you’ll be happy to have these slip-on mules. The suede material and hardware combination makes them look more expensive than the under-$40 price tag.

3. Nice Knit: A solid-colored pair of flats goes with everything, and the textured fabric gives this pick something extra. The same style is available in 15 colors and patterns, including bold fuchsia and leopard print.

4. Pretty Point: A backless pair of mules is simple to slip on, and the no-frills design makes it easy to pair with a variety of fall staples. Choose from faux-suede, faux-leather and even denim options.

5. Bowed Beauties: When you think of classic ballet flats, chances are that you picture something like these. The soft round-toe silhouette and cute bows never go out of style.

Related: Nobody Would Ever Know These Rich-Looking Flats Are as Comfy as Sneakers

If you’re bored with sneakers, you’re not alone. There’s a reason the streets of New York City, Los Angeles and London are overflowing with polished flats, which are a classy and equally versatile alternative. We found 13 luxe-looking pairs that deliver the comfort of sneakers, and seriously, you’ll wish you found them sooner. These timeless […]

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Elevated Sneakers

6. Our Favorite: As much as we love our all-white sneakers, this retro-inspired pair from Reebok is a bit cooler. At the same time, it’s simple enough to work with whatever outfit you throw its way.

7. Hot Hybrid: If sneakers and Mary Janes had a baby, it would be these unique shoes. The laces are a bit thinner, and the design leaves the top of your foot exposed, which has a subtle elongating effect.

8. Bold Babe: Office-friendly doesn’t have to mean boring, so spice things up with some $22 colorblock sneakers. The eye-catching style mixes different hues and textures, including mesh.

9. Cool Colors: With a classic silhouette and a mix of brighter colors, these slip-on walking sneakers are a unique addition. However, if you’re not feeling so daring, white is always an option.

10. Floral Friend: These classic-style Skechers sneakers have a splash of fun at the bottom, featuring pretty flower graphics. They still work with a range of outfits but add a pop at the same time.

Cool Boots

11. Our Favorite: Dream Pairs’ square-toe ankle boots have a 2.83-inch block heel, which isn’t too high for daily wear. They work just as easily for the office as they do for weekend fun.

12. Serious Bargain: We expected to pay way more than the $19 price tag for these heeled knee-high boots. Fall lovers will appreciate the seasonal color selection, all of which seem to be calling our names.

13. Everyday Wear: You’ll be able to wear these low-heel ankle booties at work all day, followed by happy hour fun — and there won’t be a blister in sight. The faux-leather and faux-suede options are ideal for the season.

14. Stylish Slouch: Let your footwear do a little more talking with some slouchy ankle boots. You’ll definitely get your money’s worth since they work well for date night, too.

15. Cute Kitten Heel: Yes, kitten heels come in boot form! This ankle-length, pointed-toe option prioritizes comfort, and since the style is timeless, it won’t feel outdated by this time next year.

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

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

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We get it: your rotation of white tops and black trousers is starting to feel stale. But if anyone knows how to add a fashionable edge to professional attire, it’s Jennifer Lopez. Even though she isn’t crunching numbers at an office, her chic two-piece set style is perfect for the job. We found a Lopez-inspired […]

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Roomies, Big Sean has the internet gushing and dropping heart eyes after sharing some new pics of his son Noah, whom he shares with Jhené Aiko. Fans can’t get enough of the cuteness overload, while others are debating whether Noah resembles his mom or dad after getting a lil’ sneak peek at his face.

RELATED: The Internet Revisits Why Big Sean Said He Wasn’t Ready To Marry Jhené Aiko Amid New Relationship Rumors (VIDEO) 

Big Sean Dropped NEW Flicks Of Baby Noah & The Resemblance Debate Began

Big Sean recently dropped some fresh flicks on social media while on daddy duties with his son Noah. In one pic, the rapper holds Noah in front of him and as lil’ man covers his eyes. Another shot shoes Noah sitting on Sean’s shoulders as they stand on a sidewalk. The new pics immediately had fans melting and jumping straight into debate mode, with some saying Noah takes after Jhené Aiko while others swear he’s giving lil’ Sean.

One Lil’ Peek Had The Roomies Debating Noah’s Mini-Me Status

The debate over who baby Noah resembles continued in The Shade Room’s comment section, with Roomies gushing over just how cute he is. Peep some of the reactions below.

Instagram user @miss.auntyyyy wrote, “I know he look just like mommy 🤭”

Instagram user @beezylux313 wrote, “Dad & Noah 🌍✨🤗” 

While Instagram user @ms.mikosmith486 wrote, “Awww he’s growing so fast ❤️” 

Then Instagram user @withlovebets wrote, “Lil Sean🥰” 

Another Instagram user @__itsnise wrote, “Looking like his Mommy @jheneaiko 😍” 

Instagram user @intelligentj wrote, “Big Sean and little Sean.” 

Then another Instagram user @x_itsjustbree wrote, “And Ik he look just like his momma.” 

Instagram user @badinarella wrote, “I can already tell he looks just like her 😍” 

While another Instagram user @theone____onlyjazzielmao wrote, “Look like his mom it’s giving.” 

Finally, Instagram user @dope__chickk_ wrote, “I just know he soooooo cute 😍” 

Jhené Previously Gave Fans A Peek Into Some Sweet Mommy-Son Moments With Noah

Despite the fresh peek at baby Noah, fans have seen little glimpses of him before. In 2025, Jhené Aiko gave her Instagram followers a look into her mommy-mode life, sharing a photo of her and Noah twinning in all-black fits, followed by a sweet video of their bonding time outside. In the quick clip, Jhené smiles from ear to ear as Noah peacefully snoozes in her arms.

RELATED: Fans Are Wondering If Jhené Aiko & Larry June Are Dating After New Instagram Clues (PHOTOS) 

My mom has always been my fashion role model, even though many of her pieces are out of my budget. She’s all about comfy fabrics, flattering silhouettes and polished details, and her favorites never seem to go out of style. But what I realized is that none of those elements have to do with price.

With this in mind, I scoured Amazon and found 17 luxe-looking pieces that totally nail her aesthetic, and they shockingly start at only $8. From polished blouses to everyday dresses to trendy jeans, these chic picks could be straight out of her closet. Yes, I know because I’m always in there, searching for what to borrow next. With these Amazon finds, I won’t have to!

17 Amazon Pieces to Dress Expensive — From $8

Blouses

1. My Favorite: Lace, dots, crochet! My mom’s blouses scream ’boutique,’ so this flutter-sleeve number fits right in.

2. Year-Round Staple: Meet the perfect transitional top. This short-sleeve blouse is airy enough for warm days and substantial enough for layering.

3. Sassy Stripes: Preppy and polished, this striped blouse elevates anything, even jeans. I adore the ruffle neckline.

4. CEO Vibes: When my mom means business, she wears a lantern-sleeve blouse. This polka dot pick is loose with just enough shape.

Related: Before You Splurge on Free People, See These 17 Boho-Chic Staples on Amazon

Like you, we’re also obsessed with Free People’s boho-chic aesthetic. In fact, we love the style so much, we can occasionally justify a $200 dress . . . even if we get grief from our significant other. Since discovering Amazon’s Free People-like selection, however, we’re not even tempted by the label. These 17 chic summery […]

Dresses

5. My Favorite: If you’re looking for an everyday dress, opt for this solid-color midi. It’s easier to toss on than sweats.

6. Wedding Guest: My mom actually owns this exact dress. She raves about the one-shoulder design and figure-flattering fit.

7. Dinner Party: Fall is coming, and this lightweight sweater dress is ideal for date nights, dinner parties and beyond.

8. Travel-Friendly: This wrinkle-free maxi comes in handy for travel, ensuring you look polished from Milwaukee to Milan.

Pants

9. My Favorite: Small details catch my mom’s eye, like the frilly hems of these wide-leg blue jeans.

10. Luxe Alert: Whether you’re dressing for workday meetings or family gatherings, these pleated trousers make any top look luxe.

11. Extra Breezy: Hate tight waistbands? These dreamy palazzos have a drawstring waist that lets you customize the fit. I’m also so into this classy print.

Shoes

12. My Favorite: My mom bought these Adidas sneakers for herself, and I was (secretly) so excited when they didn’t fit. I’m wearing them as I type.

13. Knit Flats: Swap sporty kicks for these knit flats and you’ll look more sophisticated by default.

14. Sassy Suede: We’re entering loafers season, and these suede wonders are the perfect way to ring in fall. Shoppers say they’re very cushiony.

15. Leopard Print: Yes, grabbing these sleek sneakers in leopard print is optional but not if you want to garner compliments on every grocery run.

Outfit Sets

16. Comfy-Chic: Even when she’s on the couch, my mom always looks chic. It’s probably because she wears coordinated lounge pieces like this Amazon find.

17. Up or Down: Traveling, brunching, whatever! This tee and wide-leg pants set works for any occasion on your calendar.

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

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.

Shop the UsNow Summer Sale –> 

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Related: Tired of Tight Dresses? These 17 Loose Gems Are *Much* More Flattering

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They say comedy ages faster than any other genre, yet Charlie Brown remains youthful and hilarious. The tragic protagonist of the Peanuts franchise has been dispensing wisdom in the form of wry one-liners for over seven decades now, and he still stands out from all the imitators. Author Charles Schulz was groundbreaking in the 1950s for ascribing deep thoughts to child characters, and over the years that characterization has resonated with people more and more. By now, nearly all modern fans can say they “grew up with” Charlie Brown, no matter when they started, but there are still comic strips and animated specials to see.

Peanuts began as a comic strip about the social lives of small children, where adults are rarely seen or heard from. The characters are all insightful and philosophical, even if their concerns are childish. Charlie Brown is often characterized as an anxious over-thinker, and whenever he builds up some courage he tends to find himself punished in an ironic way. Decades of slapstick gags haven’t hardened him, however, as you can see in the five beloved Charlie Brown quote below.

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“Who Reassures the Reassurer?”

Image via Peanuts Worldwide

These days, everyone from marketing interns to content creators know that the easiest way to tug at an audience’s heartstrings is with a dog. Schulz was ahead of his time in this regard when he paired the anxious Charlie Brown with the bold Snoopy. A 1993 comic strip captured this dichotomy perfectly, as Charlie Brown goes out of his way to comfort and reassure Snoopy that everything is right in the world.

The strip shows Snoopy waking up from his dog house and seeking Charlie Brown out, apparently after hearing something or having a bad dream. In just a few panels, Charlie Brown provides hyperbolic reassurances that everything is right in the world — not just in their small suburb. “The flood waters will recede, the famine will end, the sun will shine tomorrow, and I will always be here to take care of you. Be reassured!” However, back in his own bed alone, Charlie Brown hides under the covers and wonders who will provide the same comfort to him.

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“I Don’t Know, What Are The Side Effects?”

A Peanuts comic strip by Charles Schulz

If there’s one character who brings out Charlie Brown’s philosophical side, it’s Linus. The younger Peanut tries harder than anyone to lend Charlie Brown some courage and point out his logical fallacies. In this strip, he goes so far as to say that Charlie Brown is “afraid to be happy,” and suggests that he should just stop resisting and take joy where he can get it. “Don’t you think happiness would be good for you?”

“I don’t know… What are the side effects?” Charlie Brown responds. This is a clever play on words that has only become more relevant over the years. These days, anything that’s “good for you” seems to come with a catch — from health food trends to pharmaceuticals, and even various forms of exercise. Charlie Brown’s paranoia extends even to the emotions he’ll let himself feel, which is a sadly relatable sentiment.

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“I Only Dread One Day at a Time.”

Image via Peanuts Worldwide

Sticking with Linus, another short comic strip by Schulz finds the duo putting a sardonic twist on an old chestnut. When Linus remarks that “life is difficult,” Charlie Brown announces that he has a “new philosophy” for dealing with challenges. “I can only dread one day at a time!” This is a pessimistic inversion of the classic advice to take life “one day at a time” in order to avoid being overwhelmed.

This duo actually had a similar conversation in a 1966 strip, where Charlie Brown updates his philosophy. He says: “I used to try to take each day as it came… You know, live one day at a time… My philosophy has changed. I’m down to half-a-day at a time!” Charlie Brown’s capacity for challenges may be shrinking, but at least he’s moved on from “dreading” days here.

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“Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder, But it Sure Makes the Rest of You Lonely.”

Image via Peanuts Worldwide

Charlie Brown is at his best when he’s deconstructing the advice children often hear from adults when life gets hard. In this singular classic panel, he captures how hollow this particular idiom is. “Absence makes the heart grow fonder, but it sure makes the rest of you lonely,” he remarks. This is the kind of quote that would sound rude and snarky from any character besides Charlie Brown. Instead, he makes it sound earnest. There’s something Sisyphean about the way he gets back up no matter how many times the football is pulled away from his kick at the last moment.

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“What Did I Come This Way For?”

Image via Peanuts Worldwide

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Charlie Brown really tackled the biggest question of all in these two panels, which are eerie palette-swapped versions of each other. “Life sure is strange… And they say we only come this way once,” he muses. “What did I come this way for?” It’s exactly the kind of thing a child might think about as their consciousness develops and they gain awareness of their mortality. Life is finite, and it’s never quite clear what we’re meant to do with it. However, we can all take heart that if Charlie Brown hasn’t figured it out, we’re not doing so bad.

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“In Life, It’s Not Where You Go — It’s Who You Travel With”

Image via Peanuts Worldwide

Finally, Charlie Brown is at his best when he’s with Snoopy. Seeing these two smiling together was always the Peanuts equivalent of a resolution, and this singular panel captures their dynamic perfectly. The caption has become one of Schulz most beloved quotes, and with good reason. It reads: “In life, it’s not where you go — it’s who you travel with.”

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Release Date

1965 – 2005

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Directors

Phil Roman

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  Ann Altieri

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  Violet (voice)

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  Cathy Steinberg

  Sally Brown (voice)

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  Christopher DeFaria

  Peppermint Patty (voice)

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  Christopher Shea

  Linus van Pelt (voice)

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